Just realised I haven't updated this story in 3 years, I don't know if anyone still reads this or leaves reviews. But I do love this story

Please leave reviews and I appreciate any suggestions for future chapters 3

Thank you

Marshall was scared shitless, he was a music teacher but his passion was to sing as a paid musician someday but inspiring younger mind was something that meant a lot to him. He wanted his students to achieve their dreams just like him, musical talent was rare and something to be nurtured. His mother had never believed in him, neither had Ashley, he would never let someone else's dreams be crushed like his were. In high school he'd been in some bands but they never made it anywhere, so he was always just playing as a hobby, he never thought he would get anywhere. But here he was on a friday night about to play live at a bar and sing his heart out, god he was scared shitless. He could feel his hands trembling and anxious nausea rising, trying to push it down and focus, he couldn't get cold feet now. This is what he had wanted for so long, he couldn't waste this chance. He'd dressed for the occasion, a tight black T shirt with a red skull, his hair half shaved and styled as a side parting, skinny ripped black jeans and his boots. He felt ready to take on the world and sing his heart out. So why was he also scared shitless? Why did he have fear running down his spine, the desire to run and hide, imagine that the crowd might boo him or hate his music? His internalised fear starting to eat away at him. He was going to finally sing his single slow dance aloud for a live performance, in front of people, become popular. But his confidence was knocked, questioning himself and whether this was a good idea. What with the visit from Ashley, bringing back bad memories.

"You still play that musty old thing? What did mummy make it for you?"

"Why can't I sign it? I'm your girlfriend"

"You care more about that guitar than me"

Marshall sighed, he didn't care if Ashley came tonight because all he cared about was Bubba, he wrote this song for him. She never cared about his hobbies, his passions, his future and how much his bass meant to him. Singing had been his therapy for so long, singing aloud the songs that laid in his heart that he could never share aloud. This wasn't just a hobby for him, it was something that made him feel whole. He gazed into the crowd bravely, at the audience who had come to see him, hiding behind the curtain. His eyes widened and his heart melted.

Monochromicorn had come, fitting in with his long white hair and bangs, dressed in black with a blank expression, loads of girls staring at him. He was surprised he of all people was here, but maybe this was his sort of music too? Cate, his girlfriend, a lightly tanned, slightly shorter female with honey blonde hair and big brown eyes, she was very outspoken, sarcastic, fun loving but maternal. Her louder personality compared to his quieter nature blended well together. She had a short blonde cropped pixie cut, styled to frame her face and cut above her shoulders in a short bob. She wore red lipstick, light eye and face make up, and a pair of white dungarees with yellow sunflowers, a black shirt and boots. They made the sweetest couple despite being opposites, but maybe that was why he and Bubba worked so well together. Fionna his best friend and the school gym teacher had shown up too, whether to support him or fawn over Gumball he didn't know. He knew this wasn't her type of scene but then she was such an awkward person she rarely spoke about her hobbies. She had a hard time fitting in anywhere but had a close relationship with Marshall, they were the best of friends. All he knew about her was that Cate was her adopted sister after her parents had abandoned her as a kid. She had untied her hair from its ponytail and styled it into waves with small bunny hair clips, adorning a denim jacket, a black shirt decorated in bunny heads, ripped blue jeans and some boots.

Then his gaze fell upon the person he was looking for, Bubba, in a sea of endless strangers faces he always stood out. Bubba looked very nervous but excited, instead of looking out of place, he looked like he belonged there. He was wearing the rock T-shirt he wore as a Pajama shirt, a pair of washed blue jeans and a maroon hoodie, his gaze roaming around the crowd and flickering towards the stage, looking for him. Bubba had to be the sweetest boy he had ever known, he had planned to sing slow dance, but now he felt like calling out Ashley for gate crashing and ruining his peace with Bubba. He knew Ashley saw Bubba as a threat and she should, Bubba was better than her in every way and he would prove that. Bubba had been his knight in shining armour when his world fell apart. He took a deep breath and stepped on stage, making sure his bass was tuned, he then stared at the crowd. "Hey, I was planning on singing the mushiest song possible for my boyfriend. But a sudden chaos entered my lives with the needy parasite known as my ex. So I felt like venting tonight by insulting her" Marshall called. He heard a few people whisper and giggle in the crowd, no doubt gossip would spread like wildfire but he couldn't care less. He took a deep breath, strumming his bass. Letting the music flow through him.

Gumball's eyes widened in shock, trying not to laugh as he felt amusement flush through him, this show had been worth attending. He had never been to a gig in his life but now he realised what he had been missing. No way, he wouldn't, someone in the crowd would undoubtedly film this and spread it all over the internet. He was about to insult his ex Ashley on stage via a life performance, this had to be the greatest thing he had ever seen in his life.

Marshall closed his eyes before slowly strumming his guitar in a low bass rock, bobbing his head gently, the smoke machines releasing into the air as a red light beamed on him. He felt alive, he felt free and he felt like he could do whatever he wanted. Letting the rage and pain she had caused him pour through his lips like smoke. "Don't you see, you're exactly what I want to be, honestly, you're a walking demonic tragedy" Marshall's voice crooned. He hated the person he was with her, he hated how much he hated himself, how ashamed and guilty he felt. When his gaze would fall upon happier couples, thinking he should be grateful to have her when in fact he was miserable. Looking at other men and women and hoping they would steal him away. But now he had met someone better, he had found his person and he was never going to look back. He would never take Ashley back, no matter how much she begged him, she had interrupted his life again and ended up being slapped in the face with the reality that he had moved on. He had found someone far better than she ever hoped to be, Gumball was his angel, his missing piece and more. He was a dream come true.

Gumball found himself biting his lip and sniggering under his breath, he wanted to see the look on Ashley's face. She would be sulking, screaming and kicking off at Marshall for humiliating her with the truth. She seemed to feel entitled to treating Marshall like shit and never taking responsibility for her actions. He had no idea of what Marshall even saw in her to begin with. That he could tolerate to date someone so petty, childish and selfish, knowing she was old news and he had chosen Gumball.

"Can't believe, that I almost thought that we were meant to be" Once upon a time had thought the world of her, that she would change, that he was wrong and he was overthinking, that maybe he was the problem and needed to do better. That he should feel lucky to have Ashley, that her behaviour, her control over him was normal, that the way she treated him was ok. She was his first serious girlfriend and relationship so he had nothing to compare it to. As soon as he got away from her he felt so much better "Can't believe, that I almost thought you cared about me". Marshall then strum his bass harder, the crowd cheering as he prepared for the chorus, pumping them up and preparing them for more. He never thought his song would be this popular, bopping his head in tune.

Gumball wondered when he had written this song and how easy it was to pour out his feelings for her, how he projected his internalised issues into music. Wishing he was able to do the same. He felt like he was seeing a new side of his boyfriend and he loved it. He remembered how stressed Marshall was when she visited and he didn't blame her, Ashley had been a piece of work, but she was his past for a reason, he was Marshall's future. He was here when it mattered most while Ashley showed up when it was convenient for her. He hoped she never darkened their doorway again but he didn't think that would be the case, she would show up again somehow.

"I'm so glad that I woke up, I'm sick of living under your thumb" Marshall was sick of Ashley thinking she had a say in his life, his choices and his future, that she had anything positive to offer him. She lost that a long time ago, he wasn't the same person he had been back then, he was someone new. He had moved on, he had met someone else and he was free, this was his life and she had no right to dictate. "I'm so glad that I woke up, I don't really care about your stupid bratty kingdom".

Gumball stood in awe in the bouncing, dancing crowd, voices cheering, yelling and screaming all for him, no doubt he would have hoards of new fans by the end of the show. People begging for autographs and more, people begging to get to know him. Marshall singing his songs for a waiting audience, pouring his heart out aloud and venting at the same time. He always put truth into his lyrics, he always wrote how he felt and dedicated himself to it. Gumball never knew he could fall even harder for Marshall, that watching him sway his hips, the way his hair fell in front of his eyes, under his spell. Let alone feel this proud for him, he was saying that he was over Ashley and had been for a long time, he was singing a breakup song and shouting his heart out. Calling her out for ruining his life and how she would never get a second chance. Saying he chose Bubba, he would always choose Bubba, Gumball couldn't help the swell of pride in his chest.

Marshall panted, brushing his hair from his eyes as his chest heaved, sweat dripping from his face, the high energy of the crowd and their cheers washing through him. He had just played a brand new song off the bat about Ashley and how he was glad they were over and the crowd loved it. Breakup songs were nothing new, everyone had written one about their ex, everyone had stories about relationships gone bad and things they regretted. He had been scared of the response from people but it went better than he expected. He felt his heart thumping in his chest, his body felt alive and he was shaking, this had to be the greatest gig he had played in a long time. Suddenly, he heard someone coming up from behind him and he brushed his hair from his eyes.

Gumball was stood nearby bravely, his cheeks flushed and smiling shyly, hesitant about what to say "That was amazing Marshall, they loved you" he smiled. He had played with his soul, singing his heart out, giving it his all in raw passion. He had lost himself to the music, it was a sight to behold. No doubt people would want merch or some of these to be uploaded to music streaming sights, he could barely believe it. He was getting the exposure he needed to make a career of his music, to finally express his passions openly and hope that someone paid attention to him.

Marshall blushed, he couldn't believe Gumball was here supporting him, of all people he cared about his opinion most of all. Bubba had somehow become his muse for music, he looked into those purple eyes and suddenly everything made sense. He felt like he could write a book of songs, he felt like he could climb a mountain and touch the clouds. But, somehow singing about his ex in front of Gumball made him feel immensely guilty. Bubba meant everything to him while Ashley meant nothing, he had poured his heart out on a new song and he felt proud, but he was scared shitless "I can't believe you came" Marshall mumbled. He felt so much braver having him here, knowing if he got scared that Bubba would be by his side. He'd been with him through thick and thin. Nobody had loved or supported him the way he did, nobody had believed in him for a very long time. Then Gumball came into his life and he felt spoiled.

Gumball smiled, approaching his boyfriend to cup his face fondly, kissing his lips tenderly "Of course I did, you think I'd miss this" Bubba smiled. Watching him shine, watching him grow, this was one of the proudest moments of his life. Knowing he never wanted to be anywhere else.

Marshall felt his heart flutter, resting his forehead against Bubba's "I love you" he mumbled. Where had he been his whole life? Bubba had to be the sweetest person he had ever met, he didn't know what he had done in life to deserve him. But he counted his blessings every day.

Gumball stood shyly nearby under the light, he could feel everyone's eyes on him, he had never expected Marshall to request he join him on stage. He felt so out of place, he wouldn't be expected to speak would he? He bowed his head bashfully and kept his gaze on Marshall, his rock, where he felt safest. He had always been an introverted person, he hated unwanted attention, this was his nightmare. So why had he agreed? God he hoped nobody started mocking him from the crowd. Marshall smiled at him warmly, encouraging him that he would be ok "So, my last song was dedicated to my monster of an ex, but this one, this is dedicated to my rock. My boyfriend, Bubba" he wanted everyone to know how important Gumball was, he wanted everyone to know how much he loved him and how special he was. The crowd cheered and clapped, some hooting for a second song, he could see Fionna in the crowd, a look of surprise on her face as she saw Bubba and Marshall together on stage. Monochromicorn smiled at them both warmly, a proud expression on his face, nodding at Bubba encouragingly

"You got this babies!" Cate cried happily

Marshall strummed his bass slowly, the light changing from red to white, his voice sultry and soft, this was the song he had written for Gumball. The song that made him realise how much he loved him. That no matter where life took him, what mishaps may take place and whoever crossed his path, he would always be bound to Bubba. He would never love anyone else the same way. "Slow dance with you, I wanna slow dance with you..." Marshall began slowly. Bubba blushed, no way, he was singing their song, he was playing the song he dedicated to Bubba, the one he sang for him when they were in his flat together while he was writing songs. This song was sultry, slow, romantic and personal, the kind you danced to under a spotlight at a school dance. Of all the songs Marshall Lee had ever written, this had to be the sexiest one yet. "I know all the other boys are tough and smooth, but I got the blues, I wanna slow dance with you" Marshall sang. He saw the way other boys looked at Bubba, he saw the way Fionna looked at him, he knew they had roaming eyes and lustful gazes. Everyone wanted a piece of him but they would never get a taste. Bubba was his, Bubba was his boyfriend and he wouldn't give him up, he had never felt as happy as he did with Bubba, nobody made him feel as safe. Strumming his bass, swaying his hips and smiling in Bubba's direction the whole time, he wanted to chase the stars with Bubba, run into the distance.

Marshall stood by the bar, sipping his drink with a proud smile and a fond expression, he knew Gumball was embarrassed but he wasn't mad. Tonight had been a successful gig and he was proud of that, the owners asked him to come back again on a payroll. He was getting closer to his dreams and he couldn't be happier about it. Gumball stood beside him bashfully, all night guests from the crowd had been coming up to him. He never expected to be this popular and he didn't know how Marshall coped with it. While many of them were nice, he was draining his social battery hard and he didn't know how much longer he would cope.

"You guys make a cute couple"

"OMG dedicating a song to your boyfriend? You found a winner"

"You're dating a bassist, you have no idea how jealous I am"

"That was the sweetest thing I've ever seen"

Gumball knew his ex Ashley was a bitch but he never expected him to sing a song about her on stage, this would get around fast and he doubted she would be happy about it. He could see how jealous loads of female groupies were, as well as some of the guys. But at least they were being nice rather than bitchy, he wouldn't know how to cope. But he'd faced Ashley, so what was one more? But he had to agree he had found a winner of a boyfriend, soft, sensitive, musically talented, charming, stubborn. Marshall was a winner and the more he got to know him the more he loved him. Yeah he was mischievous but he was also incredibly bashful. "So... you performed the song... the one you wrote about me..." Bubba mumbled.

Marshall gazed at him, blushing awkwardly "Yeah..." he mumbled, he knew how obnoxiously mushy that was, how embarrassing it was, but he meant every word. He'd been pining over Bubba long before they began dating, only upon reflection had they both been awkward idiots. Gumball had his heart, the soft, gentle, open minded cooking teacher, the one that protected him and defended him. He was the mysterious loner that Gumball found himself drawn to and ended up falling in love with. Marshall had never been good at showing vulnerability with people, his mother, his ex, so many people had used it against him. So he created a shield to protect himself from ever having his heart broken again. But with Bubba he finally felt safe, knowing Gumball would never hurt him the way they had.

Bubba smiled, they had shared so many tender moments together, from Marshall being jealous of his best friend, going to a pattiesserie together, Marshall taking care of him while sick, then scaring off his ex girlfriend. But this had to be his favourite memory to date "That has to be the most romantic thing anyone's ever done for me" he chuckled. Nobody had written a song for him before, nobody had dedicated one to him, nobody had loved him as strongly as Marshall had. Marshall just knew how to make his heart race, knew how to leave him gobsmacked. Everyone wanted to be in shoes, everyone wanted a lover as perfect as him, but they had their rough patches and worked through. Being able to find the crucial balance that made things work.

Marshall smirked "What can I say? I'm a hopeless romantic" he chuckled, Ashley had never cared about any song he wrote for her, calling it mushy and pathetic. She had always called him lazy when he sat around contemplating lyrics and looking for inspiration. She only ever wanted to do things she liked or meant something to her. Marshall loved being able to share his emotional, romantic and tender side with Bubba and be appreciated for the effort he put in. Bubba acted as not only his muse but his support, praising and cheering him on from the sidelines so he never forgot how special he was. He didn't know how much that meant to Marshall, having someone finally believe in him after all this time.

"So, are you gonna barricade your door? Ashley is gonna hear about this and come for blood" Bubba smirked, she wouldn't like their dirty laundry being waved around in the open. Everyone would know the song was about her, what a shitty girlfriend she had been to Marshall and that he had moved on fast. Ashley was a brat with a temper and a sense of entitlement, she got a sick sense of joy making Marshall feel shitty about himself. She wasn't going to play nice now, she would get angry, petty and she would get even in her own way. He didn't doubt she would try and slander Marshall or visit him at work and try and humiliate him.

"Call it payback, she deserves worse" Marshall scoffed, she had broken his heart, she had sold his childhood toy before he was able to salvage it back using online betting. She had made fun of him when he explained how negligent his mother had been and how she abandoned him as a child. She laughed at him when he explained his dad, the only person who genuinely loved him died when he was a kid. She had made their relationship all about her, expecting to be worshipped and babied constantly, but would get pissy and bitchy when he did anything for himself. So he got revenge by insulting her and calling her out via music, by expressing his hatred towards Ashley for how badly she treated him. Payback was a bitch as they say.

Bubba gazed at him fondly "She already hates my guts because she knows she's lost" he reminded him, she could see how happy Marshall was with him, how he treated him better than she over had. How they trusted each other, supported each other and were genuinely happy. Working both as teachers and trying to achieve their goals and what would become of one another. Bubba secretly had a love of science fiction and fantasy, harbouring many comic books and novels of the genre. However, he hid it well due to the embarrassment of what people would say. He hadn't told Marshall Lee yet but he would soon find out. He wondered how Ashley would react knowing she lost Marshall to a nerd who was skilled in the kitchen.

"Touche" Marshall smiled, Ashley hated when things didn't go her way or she was called out on something she didn't like. Whenever someone called her a bitch back when they were dating she would sulk for hours and expect everyone to pity her. When something went wrong in her life she would expect everyone to coddle her and ignored the world around her. She could see how much Gumball loved Marshall, she could see he'd changed and how Gumball brought out the best side of him. She couldn't stand it and she hated that someone else had made him happier than she ever had. This was the wakeup call she needed to realise she was the problem and always had been, but he doubted she would ever change.

"Hey guys! Damn that was a wild show! Way to go Marshall" Cate praised loudly, Marshall turned to see Cate with Monochromicorn holding her hand, allowing himself to be led along. Fionna lingered in the background awkwardly, nodding in their direction but hesitating to come forward. She had never suffered social anxiety before so he wondered what was bothering her. She was quieter than usual, given she was a rambunctious tomboy most days.

Marshall smiled, he was glad they were all here, he knew that they had their own lives. Cate worked part time as a therapist for counselling, helping other people with their problems. She acted like a mother to both Fionna and Gumball, he was used to her loud and brash personality. Fiona was rarely seen without her "Thanks guys, it was sweet of you to come out here". Cate would be having the time of her life tonight, screaming into the crowd and dancing her heart out, she belonged in places like this.

"Wouldn't miss it" Fionna responded quietly, her eyes hesitant, she wondered if it had been a good idea to come here, realising now she had been chasing a one sided affection for a guy who wasn't even interested in girls. She felt so stupid, she had never even approached Gumball so how was she to know, but now she realised it would have done her a world of good. She wouldn't have had to have her heart broken by learning that her best friend and crush were dating and had been for some time. Gumball saw the look on her face and shifted, she knew, it was written all over her face, realising she never had a chance with him. Girls fell for gay men all the time, no big deal. But it didn't mean knowing the person you liked would never look at you the same way, nobody liked that. Fionna had been pining over him for ages, a one sided affection that would never blossom, yes he had never told her that he was dating Marshall but then she never assumed he was dating anyone. But then given how close he had gotten to Marshall it was easy to realise, while he felt guilty that she was upset, he couldn't change how he felt.

"You guys want a drink?" Marshall asked, tonight had been thirsty work and he planned on celebrating for a while, this had been the best gig he had played in a while. The crowd had responded positively to his songs and even more had praised them as a couple. Things had gone better than he expected and he wanted to enjoy the feeling for a while, the elated feeling of things going his way. He was rarely a social creature and enjoyed his privacy but in brief moments enjoyed the night life with his friends.

"Heck yeah, it's boiling in here" Cate nodded, she hurried to the bar and loudly tried to attract the attention of a bartender, waving her hand and directing him towards her. Cate never allowed bartenders to get rude with her, she had enough attitude to avoid getting sassed. She had saved all of them in a hairy situation alone by intimidating someone, making sure they didn't get any ideas. More than enough times she had scared off rivals for her boyfriends attention with one look or a single word.

Monochromicorn approached the bar quietly and smiled at Gumball "Good to see you Bubba" he greeted. He'd been busy lately, most of his time was spent with Marshall, rarely ever apart. He couldn't remember the last time he had seen Gumball so happy. Gumball had been an avid lover of science growing up, but it lead to him being relentlessly bullied, so he hid it from others. He became a cooking teacher to follow one of his other hobbies. But he hoped that with Marshall, he could be himself.

"Ash, it's been so long" Gumball smiled, they were rarely able to chat at work these days, his time was taken up more than usual. When he wasn't making plans with Marshall, he was making lesson plans, grading papers and balancing other personal issues. He felt bad for neglecting Ash, but given he was also in a relationship, he was very understanding. But they needed to catch up, there was so much stuff he needed to discuss with Ash and he needed to vent, get an outsiders opinion on the matters.

"Romantic gesture like that, you guys must be getting serious, what it is nearly a year now?" Monochromicorn reflected, he remembered the day he helped set them up. Crossing paths with a moody Marshall who perceived them to be a couple. They had experienced their fair share of issues and drama, but they remained as strong as ever. But it was evident to see that Marshall truly loved Bubba, the way he looked at him said that enough. Bubba couldn't believe it, but yes it was nearly a year since he and Marshall Lee began dating, though his crush on the vampire started much further than that. He had never in his wildest dreams think that they would ever become lovers. He had lost track of time, but then he was so happy. Nothing else mattered anymore, he felt like he had found his person. The one person in the world who understood him better than most.

Fionna blushed, leaning against the bar beside Gumball, she felt so out of place, she felt as though she was third wheeling. A sense of second hand embarrassment from intruding on a place she didn't belong. She was old friends with Marshall but she had harboured a crush on Gumball for the longest time, now she had just learned they were dating. How was she supposed to react to this? I mean she was happy for them and they obviously loved each other, but she felt like she'd been betrayed. Her crush was dating her best friend, her crush liked guys? Why didn't he say anything? Why didn't Gumball let her down gently instead of giving her hope that he was just oblivious? She sipped her drink quietly and gazed into oblivion.

Marshall stretched, carrying his bass over his shoulder as he walked down the street casually, he would sleep well tonight. The energy of the bar had worn him out, but he would still have to check reviews and socials about how his live gig had done. In his younger years while in a band with friends the responses had been poor, causing them to break up. But he did better as a solo act than he had in a group, writing his own music. But if he didn't get enough exposure he would never achieve the dreams he wanted. Gumball walking by his side shyly, his hands buried in his pockets, finally having got some peace and quiet to themselves as they headed home. "Man, what a gig, I've never had one this wild before, and I got to play new music" Marshall reflected, the room had echoed with noise, vibrating on another level. He wanted to pinch himself just to make sure he wasn't dreaming. He had been able to get his songs out there and feel proud of that.

Gumball chuckled "I wonder how long it will take for Ashley to learn about the new music", given loads of people were filming, vlogging and taking pictures, she would come across it somehow. Realising the music was about her and calling her out for being so toxic. Given how entitled and bitchy she had acted, this would be a surprise for her to learn that Marshall saw her that way. Her innately talented ex boyfriend who had a gift with words and a talent for music, she didn't know how screwed she was. He couldn't wait to see the look on her face, the realisation that the entire world would know exactly who she was, if she walked down the street and brought up anything about her personal life people would connect the dots. She had a vague veil of anonymity due to never mentioning her by name. But people would put the dots together.

Marshall smirked, his song about Ashley had purely been made up on the spot, accumulated feelings on their past relationship that he had carried over time and finally vented into words. Payback would hurt but then she had hurt him so many times and never apologised "Oh she's gonna hate me for this but she deserves it". Ashley could cry all the crocodile tears she wanted, ranting about how she was the victim and how much of a jerk he was. But everyone knew the truth now, everyone knew her true personality. She could resent him all she wanted, looking for someone to blame but the fault was entirely her own.

"She seems delightful as it is, so this might give her a wake up call" Bubba hummed, she loved to enter Marshall's life as she pleased, coming and going, treating him like a second thought. Expecting him to help her at her beck and call, as if he owed her anything at all. She hated Gumball purely because he put her in her place, he called her out on her attitude and protected Marshall. He was his boyfriend, she had been replaced and she was always the problem.

"Oh I'm gonna get a barrage of calls and texts when she hears about it" Marshall smiled

Gumball sat on the couch with a cup of strawberry and elderflower tea, the gentle aroma filling his senses, this was a nice breather after the energy of the bar they had been at tonight. Dressed in his old band shirt and peppermint patterned shorts. This felt like an amazing way to end the evening, watching his boyfriend play live music, a song being dedicated to him and being able to make new memories. He would remember moments like these for the rest of his life, reflecting upon them like dreams and taking himself back to that time. "Geez I'm beat, I'm gonna sleep like a log" Marshall yawned, live performing really took the energy out of him, pouring his heart and soul into the bass. Pouring every part of himself into the performance, the lyrics, making a spectacle, drawing in attention from the crowd.

"You certainly were popular" Gumball agreed, he knew all sorts of people would be talking about Marshall, hunting down his social media platforms, where he worked etc. Growing an army of groupies all clamouring for his attention, but his heart belonged to one person. He didn't doubt much like Ashley, someone else would try and slide into his DM's, someone would try and persuade him that they were a better fit. But Marshall had eyes for only Bubba and his heart chose him. He laughed at anyone who believed Marshall would so much as look at anyone else, he was a serial monogamist.

Marshall sipped his tea "Yeah, but you mattered the most, I don't know what I'd do if you weren't there" he reflected, Bubba was his emotional support. Bubba had seen him at his worst, his lowest, when his mental health was low, when he was stressed. He was his cuddle bug, his confidant, he didn't know what he would do without was relieved and overjoyed people enjoyed his music, he was grateful for the fans he developed. He was happy people listened to him play. But he wouldn't be able to do it without Bubba. Bubba gave him pep talks, Bubba made him tea, Bubba listened to him complain and when he acted childishly. Bubba was dear to him and he never wanted to lose him, he'd go to hell and back for him.

Gumball smiled, he would support Marshall come hell or high water, he knew how much his music meant to him. He'd had this bass since he was in high school, it was his baby. He had never been prouder of Marshall, he had played for a live performance for a crowd of people, he could have messed up, been booed, harassed, heckled and more. But they loved him, it all went better than he expected. "I mean, you looked really cool on the stage, you had everyone hypnotised, you should be proud" Gumball praised. He'd been staring at Marshall all night, blushing like an idiot while watching him dance and sing in a sultry tone. Embarrassed by how much he had liked it. Marshall knew how to get someone's attention when he wanted it, he was a tease and he knew it. He had an innate charm that allowed him to flirt the pants off anyone he met. But when he really loved someone it was written all over his face.

Marshall smirked "You think I'm cool", he was used to his students saying that, he was used to hearing praise from students about his teaching style. Loads of female students who had crushes on him. It came with the job and for the most part it was harmless. But hearing his ex crush, his boyfriend of all people call him cool, well it gave him a bit of an ego boost. He felt insanely proud to say that his boyfriend was his fanboy. He wondered if Gumball had admired him and idolised him before approaching him romantically, the thought was too cute to ignore. He would never stop teasing him relentlessly over this, even if Gumball got sulky about it.

Bubba blushed "I'm dating you Marshall, but yes I've always thought so" he muttered, he always felt like the luckiest man alive for the fact that Marshall Lee returned his feelings. But he would never get over the fact that Marshall never had to try and be cool or impress people, he just had that level of charisma. Marshall earned adorning fans wherever he went, be it students, groupies, people in public, they were all in awe of him. But with his soft black hair, reddish brown eyes and mischievous nature, it was easy to fall for him. But loving Marshall's dark side that he rarely showed, his vulnerability, that was the hard part.

"I mean I felt your eyes on me while I was on stage, but now I know it wasn't all in my head" Marshall teased, Gumball staring at him from the crowd, his eyes glued to him as he sang. Every lyric, every movement and every strum of his bass had Gumball hanging on for more. When he wrote their love song, he could see Gumball was both on the verge of tears from happiness and elated with happiness and embarrassment. Able to understand Marshall's feelings on a deeper level through his music, connecting to him, admiring his work.

"So the next time you're in school you'll be able to tell everyone you had a gig" Gumball smiled, he could imagine them all hanging off the edge of their seats begging to know more. Imagining how cool he'd been live but regretting that they were never able to see him in person. Loads of students loved their gossip, spreading stories of what they thought their teachers personal lives were like. Imagining their make believe fantasies of how they spent their lives. It was funny how utterly ridiculous some of them were, often amusing him with their tales. If they knew Marshall was a needy, mischievous but protective crybaby they would lose their minds.

Marshall smiled, he'd worked hard to earn the respect of his students, so many would goof off, mess around and get bored. He had to push them to listen and actually get involved in his classes. Music was an art and though not for everyone it was to be respected. He was here to do his job and he reminded the kids of that "You know it, those kids love me"

Gumball's expression formed into sadness "I wish my students did, no matter how much effort I put in nobody pays attention". Sometimes he wondered if he was in the right line of work, if maybe he would be better off as a science teacher or doctor. Why was he teaching kids who saw him as a joke? His potential and skills would be appreciated elsewhere. He envied of how many other teachers had a good reputation with students and were respected, while he was seen as a joke. Loads of times Ash had to stand up for him when they went too far. Parents had apologised profusely on their kids behalf for their behaviour but nothing ever changed.

Marshall softened, he knew the kids in their school never respected or paid much attention to Bubba. They never appreciated the time and effort that went into any of it. But so long as he let them push him around they would never change their behaviour or realise it was unacceptable. He would need to step in more these days, keeping an eye on Bubba to make sure they didn't bully him. The benefit of dating teachers was that he heard all the gossip and could poke his head in the door. "You gotta stand up to them Bubba, they won't respect you if you don't hold your own" he soothed. Gumball hummed and nodded, Marshall was right, it was a painful pill to swallow but it was the wake up call he needed. He couldn't be a pushover, he needed to confront his students, they would never respect him otherwise. He worked hard at his job and he was tired of never being taken seriously. He would never get anywhere if he kept ignoring the issue. "But for now, I get you all to myself" Marshall smiled, wrapping his arm around his shoulder and kissing his cheek.

Gumball smiled to himself, he'd an amazing weekend, Marshall Lee had his first concert at a big venue, he had seen his boyfriend play live and he'd dedicated one of his songs to him. He had the most amazing time, romantic gestures, live music, enjoying the vibe and spending time with his friends. The quiet and lonely weekends he had been used to previously were now a distant memory, now he had found friends and a new community that made him happy. Aside from Marshall's bitchy ex showing up he had made memories he never wanted to forget. Finding himself scrolling through his phone to admire the pictures and reflecting back to that moment with fondness. Now he was back in the classroom back to the job in which he had once been forgotten and ignored, but Marshall was right, enough was enough. He couldn't be scared of teenagers, he could allow them to act as the authority. Yes, the job was stressful but it came with the territory. He would put his foot down, if he could stand up to Ashley, he could handle some mouthy teenagers. Suddenly, a few faces appeared in the door, wondering whether to enter or contemplating skiving. Either way they were wasting time and were running late, now was not the time to gossip about trivialities. He gazed at his students with a curious but stern expression "If you have time to linger in the hall, perhaps you can use your free time to memorise the recipes for today's lesson?" he questioned.

The students stared back at him, not used to Gumball being this stern "I uh... I forgot mine sir" someone mumbled. Their voice nervous in comparison to the cocky and condescending tone they often used with him. They actually looked nervous for once.

"Then perhaps your partner will have been kind enough to bring a copy you can share" Gumball pressed, they had plenty of time to prepare beforehand and memorise ingredients. Making copies and even printing out a replacement if they lost the previous one. A few other students giggled and some even stared, they weren't used to him being stern, they weren't used to him using authority. They entered the classroom and stood by their desks, some eager to learn, others mad at being yelled at, others looked bored. It was what he expected and he'd faced this attitude before, but he would tolerate it no longer. If they didn't want to be here then so be it. Gumball folded his arms "Until now many of you have messed around in my class, many of you haven't paid attention or come prepared. That changes now".

Someone sniggered "What you gonna do sir? Fail me? You think I want to make girly cupcakes?" someone mocked

"Headmasters office" Gumball stated, if they wanted to play games, make fun of him or make jokes they could do it in their own time. If they had an issue take it up elsewhere but he had a job to do. He showed up to work and got nothing but disrespect and mockery in return, he was sick of being treated like a joke. Remembering Marshall's words of encouragement pushing him forward. The kid stared at him in awe, "I said NOW" he warned, the kid blinked before gathering their things to follow after. Many of his students dithered, shocked looks on their faces. "I'm not here for fun, cooking is a basic essential skill, plenty of you are gonna need it in college. Instead of living off instant noodles, how about you learn how to cook and stop wasting my time and energy" Bubba stated. Many of the students nodded and anxiously began to gather their things, Bubba smiled, proud that he finally stood up for himself.

Gumball sat in the staffroom with a proud smile on his face, he couldn't believe how different he felt after earning the respect of his students. Standing up to the harassers and reminding them of who was boss. He'd finally stood up to the students who were dead set on wasting his time, coming to his class to mess around, fail and cause trouble. He'd put them in their place and confronted their attitude. What with facing public homophobia for holding Marshall's hand, his entitled ex girlfriend coming back into the picture and facing bratty students, he was done being pushed around and treated like a doormat, he was a teacher. If students didn't want to be in his class so be it, but to sign up only to act like brats and waste his time, not an option.

"You look happy this morning" Marshall hummed, he had heard gossip this morning that one of Gumball's students had been sent to the headmaster, something that never happened in his classes. He wondered what the kid had done to get into trouble. But he was proud of Bubba for taking his advice to heart.

"Well, standing up for yourself feels pretty good" Gumball hummed, he wished he had done this so much sooner, putting his foot down instead of tolerating disrespect then going home to cry into his pillow. Marshall had listened to him over the phone will he vented or cried about how bad work had been. Letting him get his words out so they didn't eat away at him until he snapped. Gumball always worried about being a pain but Marshall just told him to stop talking like that.

Marshall knew Gumball's students tended to bully him rather badly, at times he had heard them spreading rumours and gossiping. He'd confronted enough of them and sent them to the headteacher, he would like to see them try this time after Bubba stood up to them. His mother had spent half her life neglecting Marshall, forgetting he existed and only being a mother when it suited her. She loved bragging about her handsome son and asked when he would make a career for himself. Though she didn't approve of him becoming a teacher she at least praised his musical talent. She tried to be a good mother but she failed miserably in places. He knew how much it hurt, what it did to your confidence, he never wanted Bubba to feel that bad. "Damn Bubba, finally grown a backbone" Marshall teased

"Well Y'know if I can face your bitchy ex girlfriend, what are a bunch of moody teenagers?" Gumball huffed

Marshall smiled, he then hugged Bubba fondly, nuzzing his face "Proud of you Bubba". Gumball blushed but smiled, enjoying the attention he was receiving, no matter how bad he felt, Marshall always made it better. Marshall had become his comfort person and the feeling was very much mutual.

Simone watched from her desk with pride, watching her godson and future son-in-law being mushy and cuddly. Once upon a time she had a lover named Bert with whom she had shared a strong love with, but Bert had died from an illness years later. Watching them both share a love she once had warmed her heart. It had been nearly a year of Marshall asking out Gumball, it was now their 6th month anniversary. She remembered the day Marshall finally found the courage to ask him out, he'd been terrified of being rejected. But now they were happier than ever, taking care of each other while sick, going to parties together, Gumball attended one of Marshall's concerts. He'd even scared of Marshall's ex girlfriend, warning her to stay away from Marshall and that was intruding on their lives. The two were a match made in heaven, she even had the courage to assume they were soulmates. The two of them were just meant to be, making the other better and comforting them in times of distress. She sipped her tea quietly and admired them. Marshall Lee had always been a son to her, she had taken him in when his mother had abandoned him and raised him as her own. Though she worried when she would next come bounding into his life, coming and going as he pleased, the same way Ashley did. She had taken Marshall in as his legal guardian and godmother, hell he acknowledged her as a mother. If she had to protect him, so be it, she wouldn't let him be hurt again.

Marshall sat at his desk with Bubba, sipping tea and snacking on his lunch, sharing gossip of their classes together. Being able to do lesson prep together alleviating the others burden and giving the other ideas when they hit a creative block. Marshall suggesting new recipes for the class, as well as some they should try at home, Gumball snacking on another homemade lunch he had brought in to share with Marshall. Though they saw each other outside of work, they had created a sort of domestic bliss. Though they showed affection at work, they were professional about it in comparison to home. Most people catching on that they were involved. Suddenly his phone began to ring, peering at the screen curiously, Marshall sighed heavily but smirked in amusement, it seemed work travelled fast.

Ashley

Gumball peered at the screen curiously, wondering what she would want this time, he was sick of her trying to involve herself in their lives. Perhaps she needed favours or she had heard his new song? He had no idea why she was so obsessed with their relationship and trying to tear them apart, Marshall didn't want her, he would never crawl back to her. Marshall peered at Bubba, then quietly approached him to sit on his lap and answer the phone, making himself comfy.

"Marshall Lee Abadeer! What the hell?! Why am I now learning you wrote a song trashing me?!" Ashley screamed

"Oh so it's popular? Who knew?" Marshall reflected, he had people complimenting him all night, people singing the song at the top of their lungs. People recording, begging for more. Of course it would spread around, but only Ashley would know the song was directly aimed at her. Taking a massive blow to her ego and knocking her down a peg. Gumball smirked, word carried fast it seems.

"People have been singing it for weeks, what you think I'm trash?" she snapped

"Good that you can admit it Ash, seems you've had a wake up call" Marshall reflected, she had always been his worst relationship, the crappy ex, she who must not be named. Even Simone hated her, which given how sweet she was said a lot. Ashley had been slapped in the face with the knowledge that she was the issue and she needed to fix herself. Here she was crying to him and trying to play the victim when she was always the instigator. He just wanted her out of his life.

"Why do I ever ask you for help? You were a shit boyfriend anyway" Ashley snapped hanging up

Marshall stared at the phone coldly, sighing heavily, glad it had been brief instead of her whining on about herself. Everything was always about her, her voice piercing and annoying. She had only called to whine, upon reflection he wasglad he wrote the song, so now she knew how it felt. The same pain she caused him she would have to tolerate. Bubba saw the exhausted look on his face, how much she sapped the life out of Marshall, leaving him tired and frustrated. How much she hurt him, how much pain she caused him. He snatched Marshall's phone from his hand, keeping it out of his reach so he couldn't get it back, enough was enough. She wouldn't bother them any longer if he had anything to say on the matter. "Hey! Bubba?!" Marshall protested.

Gumball ignored him, blocking her number, looking up her socials and blocking them too, all accounts of her that existed. Making sure she could no longer plague either of their lives and never have an inside into their privacy. Enough was enough, he smiled to himself when done. "There, she can't bother you anymore, no more miss bloodsucker" he hummed. She could bother someone else, get a life, find a hobby, anything that meant she couldn't leech into their lives. Accepting that she was never going to see Marshall again.

Marshall stared at him in awe, he was impressed, he would have never expected such a move from Bubba, the previously shy, dorky, awkward and anxious individual he once knew. It seemed his confidence was growing in more ways than one. Had Bubba gotten cooler or was he daydreaming? He felt his cheeks heat "Damn Bubba, are you jealous?". He had no reason to be, Ashley would never be part of his life again and he felt nothing for her. But he did enjoy seeing Gumball getting riled up because someone else had an interest, it was kinda cute.

Gumball pouted "She's trash, she treats you terribly and you broke up years ago, what favours do you owe her?" he huffed. She was selfish, narcissistic and attention seeking, deluded on the idea she was blameless. She refused to leave Marshall alone and didn't care how disrespectful or disruptive she was. They had history but it was history for a reason. She needed to move on and she needed to find someone else's life to ruin.

Marshall smiled, he was jealous, it was written all over his face, he could deny it all he wanted. He wrapped his arms around Bubba happily, nuzzling his face "Love you too" he teased.