Twelfth Night

As Eugene and Cassandra settled into their nightly routine, a restlessness hung in the air. Their recent conversations had stirred up emotions neither was quite ready to confront. Eugene paced the room, his usual easy demeanor replaced by a nervous energy.

"You know, Cass," he said, breaking the silence, "I've been thinking. We've been cooped up in this room for days now. Our skills are probably getting rusty."

Cassandra looked up from her sword, which she had been absently polishing. "For once, Fitzherbert, I agree with you. What do you suggest?"

A mischievous grin spread across Eugene's face. "How about a high-speed pursuit? For old times' sake? You chase, I evade. We'll see if you can still keep up."

Cassandra's eyes lit up with the challenge. "Oh, you're on. Corona might have never caught you before, but that's only because I wasn't in the Guards."

They snuck out of the castle, the cool night air invigorating their senses. The moonlit streets of Corona stretched before them, a perfect playground for their impromptu game.

"Give me a head start?" Eugene asked with a wink.

Cassandra rolled her eyes but nodded. "Count to ten. Then you're mine, Rider."

Eugene took off, his feet barely touching the cobblestones as he raced through the winding streets. Cassandra counted, her heart pounding with anticipation. At "ten," she burst into action, her eyes scanning the shadows for any sign of her quarry.

The chase was exhilarating. Eugene vaulted over carts and slid under washing lines, his old thieving skills coming back to him in a rush. Cassandra was hot on his heels, her agility and determination driving her forward.

As they neared the castle walls, Eugene spotted an opportunity. Without hesitation, he began to climb, his fingers finding purchase on the rough stone. Cassandra followed, her competitive spirit overriding any sense of caution.

At the top of the wall, Eugene paused, looking down at the ground below. It was a long drop, but he'd made jumps like this before. He turned to Cassandra, who had just reached the top.

"Giving up, Rider?" she taunted, her cheeks flushed from the chase.

Eugene grinned. "Never." And with that, he leaped.

Cassandra's eyes widened in surprise, but she didn't hesitate. She jumped after him, her body cutting through the air.

As they fell, Eugene reached out and caught Cassandra around the waist. She instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck. For a moment, suspended in mid-air, they looked like they were embracing.

They hit the ground hard, Eugene taking the brunt of the impact. They rolled, coming to a stop with Cassandra on top of Eugene, their faces inches apart.

"I caught you," she said breathlessly.

"I caught you first," Eugene countered, his voice equally soft.

They stayed like that for a moment, panting from the intense effort. Finally, Cassandra cleared her throat and rolled off Eugene, standing up and brushing herself off.

"We should head back," she said, not meeting Eugene's eyes.

On the walk back to the castle, an argument broke out.

"I clearly won that chase," Cassandra insisted. "I caught up when we jumped."

Eugene scoffed. "Please. You'd have broken your neck had I not caught you!"

"That doesn't count!" Cassandra protested.

"Oh, so now you're making up rules?" Eugene teased. "Face it, Cass. I out-maneuvered you."

Cassandra's eyes narrowed. "Alright, Fitzherbert. If you're so confident in your skills, how about we settle this with a sword fight tomorrow?"

"You're on, Dragon Lady. Tomorrow, after our duties. Prepare to be humbled."

As they snuck back into the castle, Cassandra turned to Eugene. "I'm going to use the royal baths to clean up. You should use your private bathroom."

Eugene nodded, still feeling the ghost of Cassandra's body on his. "Right. Good idea." They parted ways, each heading to their respective bathing areas.

Cassandra sank into the warm water of the royal baths, trying to make sense of the emotions swirling inside her. The thrill of the chase, the exhilaration of the jump, and the warmth of Eugene's arms around her – it was all too much.

Meanwhile, Eugene stood under the spray of his shower, his mind replaying the moment they had hung suspended in the air. He had felt something in that moment – something he wasn't sure he was ready to acknowledge.

Cassandra stood in the middle of the room, her hair still damp from her bath. "Eugene? What are you doing here?"

Eugene blinked, the realization dawning on him, "I... I don't know. I just... came without thinking."

Cassandra studied him for a moment. "We're both tired," she said. "All that's left for us is to sleep.

As they settled into bed, careful to maintain the invisible line between them, Eugene spoke softly. "Cass?"

"Hmm?"

"Thanks for the chase. It was... fun."

Cassandra was quiet for a moment. "Yeah, it was," she finally replied.

They fell into silence, both acutely aware of the other's presence.

"Eugene?" Cassandra said into the darkness.

"Yes?"

"Make sure if you come here, to do so deliberately. Always thinking."

"I'm sorry. I just got into the habit… I'll sleep in my room tomorrow."

"I didn't turn you away, did I?"

"Cass…"

"And you're welcome to sleep here tomorrow too. Just don't make it habit… I had a spare key made. Knocking at late hours might arouse suspicion"

"You smell nice…"

"What?" Cassandra sat down. She couldn't see Eugene's face, but she could tell he was grinning.

"I was thinking when I said that."

She laid back and turned away from him. Why did he always need to have the last word?

Sleep was slow to come that night, their minds filled with thoughts of moonlit chases and mid-air embraces. The next morning, they woke to find themselves closer than usual, the invisible line between them blurred.

Thirteenth Night

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the castle grounds, Cassandra made her way to the training area. The day's duties had left her feeling restless, and she yearned for the familiar comfort of a sword in her hand. She began her warm-up routine, her movements fluid and precise.

"Mind if I join you?" Eugene called out, grabbing a practice sword from the nearby rack.

Cassandra paused, wiping sweat from her brow. "Think you can keep up, Fitzherbert?" she challenged, a smirk playing on her lips.

Eugene grinned, falling into a fighting stance. "Oh, I'll do more than keep up. Prepare to be amazed by the legendary skills of Flynn Rider!"

They sparred, their swords clashing in a thrilling dance. Eugene's agility matched Cassandra's strength, and soon they were both breathing heavily, caught up in the excitement of the match. As they circled each other, Eugene couldn't help but admire Cassandra's skill.

"You know," he panted, parrying a thrust, "you're not half bad with that sword."

Cassandra raised an eyebrow, a bead of sweat trickling down her temple. "Not half bad? I'm kicking your butt, Fitzherbert."

Their banter continued as they fought, each push and parry accompanied by a quip or tease. This back-and-forth, both physical and verbal, was exhilarating. For Eugene, it filled a void he hadn't realized was there—the need for challenge, for someone who could match him wit for wit and blow for blow.

Cassandra disarmed Eugene with a swift move, only to be surprised when he tackled her, causing her to lose her sword. "Hey! That's unfair!" she shouted as Eugene pinned her to the ground.

"Do you think life is fair, baby?" Eugene teased, laughter dancing in his eyes.

Cassandra flinched as Eugene's knee brushed her side. She could take blows all day, but he had stumbled upon an unexpected weakness: she was ticklish. Their eyes locked, and she warned, "Don't you dare!"

Throwing caution to the wind, Eugene began to tickle her. The sight of Cassandra laughing helplessly filled his heart with joy. Then he realized what he was doing—straddling her and reducing her to a panting mess. Both were breathing heavily, and for a moment, the world seemed to narrow to just the two of them.

"Good... good match," Eugene said, his voice slightly husky.

Cassandra nodded, suddenly aware of their proximity. "Yeah, you... you did better than I expected."

They stepped apart, an awkward tension settling between them. Eugene cleared his throat, running a hand through his hair. "We should, uh, do this again sometime."

"Yeah," Cassandra agreed, trying to ignore the flutter in her stomach. "It's good practice."

As they parted ways, each getting to their feet, neither could shake the feeling that something had shifted, leaving them both confused and exhilarated.

They made their way back to the castle, the cool night air doing little to calm their racing hearts. As they reached Cassandra's room, Eugene couldn't resist one last playful jab. "So who won today?" he asked.

"Me, obviously. I disarmed you!" Cassandra said, nonplused.

"I see…" Eugene in mock-pensiveness. "You know, Cass, I never pegged you for the ticklish type," he grinned, wiggling his fingers threateningly.

Cassandra's eyes widened. "Don't even think about it, Fitzherbert," she warned, backing into her room.

But Eugene was already advancing, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Oh, come on. You know, won. I can prove it, again. You only have to say two magic words."

What followed was a chaotic chase around Cassandra's room, filled with laughter, shrieks, and the occasional crash of furniture. By the time Eugene finally caught Cassandra, they were both breathless and disheveled.

"Okay, okay!" Cassandra gasped between fits of laughter. "I give up! You win!"

Eugene released her, his face flushed with exertion. As their laughter subsided, they realized how late it has gotten.

As the adrenaline of their chase faded, Cassandra ran a hand through her disheveled hair, acutely aware of their disheveled state. "We should probably clean up," she said. "I'll have to wait until morning, though. Tomorrow's my day off, so I'll bathe first thing." She paused, a wry smile playing on her lips. "I suppose you'll have to endure sleeping next to me in this state. Consider it your punishment for that hollow victory of yours."

Eugene's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Not a chance, Dragon Lady. I'm not letting you marinate in your own sweat all night. Grab some clothes and we'll head to my room. My en-suite bathroom awaits – separately and in turns, of course."

Cassandra arched an eyebrow, considering the offer. "Does Rapunzel ever drop by your room on my off days?"

Eugene's brow furrowed in thought. "I don't think so. That was more her thing when Lance was visiting."

"Is your bed big enough for two?" Cassandra asked, her tone casual but her heart racing.

"Yeah... Are you suggesting we spend the night there?"

Cassandra rolled her eyes. "Obviously. What's the point of coming back here?"

"Fair enough," Eugene conceded. "Grab your things and let's go."

As Cassandra opened her closet, a wave of realization washed over her. During Eugene's stay, she had depleted her supply of modest loungewear, which had been serving as makeshift sleepwear. Now, all that remained were her light, flimsy camisoles – garments far too revealing for their current sleeping arrangement. She stood frozen, her face paling.

Eugene's voice cut through her panic. "Everything okay, Cass?"

Cassandra hesitated, embarrassment coloring her cheeks as she explained her predicament. Eugene's expression softened with understanding.

"Come on," he said, a gentle smile replacing his usual smirk. "I've got an idea."

They navigated the castle's shadowy corridors, avoiding the night guards with practiced ease. Once safely in Eugene's chambers, he rummaged through his wardrobe, producing a soft shirt and loose trousers.

"Here," he offered, holding out the clothes. "They might swallow you whole, but they're clean and comfortable."

Cassandra took the shirt, leaving the pants. "This will do. It'll be like a short dress on me." She paused, her tone softening despite herself. "Thanks, Eugene. I... I appreciate it." Then, unable to help herself, she smirked. "Actually, never mind. This is your fault. You're just breaking even."

Eugene laughed. "Still sore about losing? You're welcome, by the way." He gestured to a door with a flourish. "Bathroom's yours."

As Cassandra entered the fancy bathroom, her eyes widened. She'd seen these royal suites before but never used one. The shower intrigued her – clever way to wash without soaking. Maybe she could convince Eugene to let her use it more.

The past fortnight had been a whirlwind for Cassandra, blurring the lines of her carefully constructed world. Over the past two weeks, Cassandra had seen a side of Eugene she never knew existed. His quick wit, which she once found irritating, now brought a smile to her face. His ability to find humor in tense situations had a way of diffusing her stress. She began to appreciate his resourcefulness, his loyalty, and even his ridiculous stories.

Cassandra found herself beginning to understand Rapunzel's infatuation with Eugene. He possessed an ineffable quality that seemed to lighten even the heaviest of burdens. His presence had a way of making the world seem brighter, more manageable. When she was with him, the weight of her responsibilities as lady-in-waiting and aspiring guard seemed less overwhelming. Cassandra had always prided herself on her independence, her ability to stand alone. Yet here she was, looking forward to their nightly conversations, their playful banter, even their shared silences.

As she slipped on Eugene's oversized shirt, a sobering thought struck her. Their clandestine partnership, viewed from the outside, could be construed as nothing short of treason. They were sharing a bed, albeit platonically, and keeping secrets from the princess they both swore to serve. The intimacy they had developed, while not physical, was undeniable.

Cassandra's heart raced as she considered the potential consequences. If anyone were to discover their arrangement, it could mean the end of her career, her dreams, and possibly even her freedom. Yet, despite the risk, she couldn't bring herself to regret the bond they had formed.

She took a deep breath, steeling herself for whatever lay ahead. As she reached for the bathroom door handle, Cassandra made a silent vow to herself. She would protect this friendship, this partnership, but she would also remain vigilant. She couldn't allow her growing fondness for Eugene to cloud her judgment or compromise her loyalty to Rapunzel.

Meanwhile, Eugene busied himself tidying the room, an unexpected wave of self-consciousness washing over him. He'd never cared much about Cassandra's opinion before, but now he found himself oddly concerned with her impression of his living space. As he straightened and organized, his mind wandered to their recent interactions. He'd discovered a new side to Cassandra – sensitive, with a laugh that could illuminate the darkest corners, and utterly endearing when reduced to a ticklish mess.

As Cassandra emerged from the bathroom, a cloud of steam billowing behind her, Eugene found himself momentarily stunned. Her damp hair clung to her neck, and his oversized shirt draped loosely over her frame, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of her collarbone. The sight stirred something unexpected within him, a warmth that spread through his chest and settled low in his stomach.

Eugene's gaze lingered, tracing the contours of her figure with an intensity that surprised even him. He had always known Cassandra was attractive in an objective sense, but seeing her like this – vulnerable, relaxed, wearing his clothes – mesmerized him.

Cassandra, didn't miss the way Eugene's eyes roved over her. A flush crept up her neck, not entirely due to the warm bath. She felt exposed but not uncomfortable – a realization that sent shivers down her spine.

"How convenient," she remarked. "I think I'll avail myself of this bathroom more often, and as such require your spare key."

Eugene raised an eyebrow at her bold statement. His lips quirked into an amused smile, but there was a hint of uncertainty in his eyes.

"You've got mine," Cassandra said firmly, closing the door to any argument.

Eugene chuckled softly, shaking his head in resignation. "Well, I suppose it's only fair," he conceded, reaching for a small key on his nightstand. "Just... try not to make a habit of barging in unannounced, okay?"

Cassandra caught the key as he tossed it to her, a triumphant smirk playing on her lips. "No promises, Fitzherbert," she teased, tucking the key safely away.

Eugene took off his shirt and playfully threw it at Cassandra. "Here's something to remember me by while I'm gone," he quipped with a wink before heading into the bathroom.

As the door closed behind him, Eugene leaned against it, letting out a deep breath. The cool air on his bare skin was a stark contrast to the warmth he'd felt moments ago. He turned on the shower, hoping the sound of running water would drown out his conflicting thoughts.

As steam began to fill the room, Eugene's mind drifted to Rapunzel. Her sunny smile, her boundless optimism, her unwavering faith in him. He loved her, of that he was certain. But as he stepped under the hot spray of water, he couldn't shake the image of Cassandra wearing his shirt, her damp hair framing her face.

Eugene closed his eyes, trying to focus on Rapunzel. He recalled their adventures together, the way her eyes lit up when she discovered something new, the feel of her hand in his. But unbidden, memories of the past few nights with Cassandra kept intruding – their late-night conversations, the thrill of their chase through Corona, the way she looked at him during their sword fight.

He ran his hands through his hair, frustration building. This wasn't right. He shouldn't be thinking about Cassandra this way. Rapunzel was his dream, his future. She had changed his life, given him a purpose beyond thievery and self-interest.

As he finished his shower and dried off, Eugene made a decision. He needed to distance himself from Cassandra, to refocus on his relationship with Rapunzel. These confusing feelings were just a result of spending too much time in close quarters with Cassandra. Nothing more.

When Eugene emerged from the bathroom, he found Cassandra sitting on his bed. Her knees were drawn up to her chest, the position causing the oversized shirt to ride up, exposing the smooth skin of her thighs. Eugene quickly averted his gaze, his hand reaching for the shirt he had prepared before entering the bathroom.

"I think you should leave that shirt off," Cassandra said, her voice low and husky, a tone Eugene had never heard from her before.

"Euh... why?" Eugene asked, his hand hovering uncertainly over the folded garment. He tried to keep his voice steady, but even he could hear the slight tremor in it.

Cassandra's eyes roamed over his bare torso, a hint of appreciation in her gaze that Eugene had never seen directed at him before. "I've got no pants," she said, her lips curving into a small smirk. "It's only fair you don't get a shirt."

Eugene swallowed hard. His mind raced, searching for the witty comeback that usually came so easily to him. "I offered you pants," he finally managed, proud that his voice didn't crack. "Remember? You chose to turn them down."

"I'm aware," Cassandra replied, her voice steady but with an undercurrent of nervousness. "I'm telling you to choose."

Eugene saw her give him a look he had never seen before on her face. It was intense, almost predatory, and it made his heart race. This wasn't the Cassandra he knew – the tough, no-nonsense lady-in-waiting who could barely tolerate his presence.

"I know you liked what you saw when I got out," Cassandra said, her words hanging heavy in the air between them. "I like what I'm seeing too."

Eugene's breath caught in his throat. He had always known Cassandra was attractive, but he had never allowed himself to truly look at her, to appreciate her beauty.

Eugene sighed, resigned. "This is ending tonight, isn't it?" The words came out barely above a whisper, as if speaking them any louder would shatter the delicate moment they found themselves in.

"I'm glad we both know that," Cassandra said, a hint of sadness in her smile. "We make a good team, don't we?"

Eugene nodded, his mind whirling with the implications of what was happening. They had spent the past few weeks in close quarters, sharing secrets, laughter, and now... this. Whatever this was.

"So the logic here is..." Eugene trailed off, struggling to make sense of the situation.

"No one can begrudge us looking at each other... I think. Other people look at us," Cassandra reasoned, her voice softening. "Listen, Eugene. It doesn't have to make sense..."

Eugene felt a wave of conflicting emotions wash over him. He knew they were treading dangerous waters, but he couldn't deny the pull he felt towards Cassandra in that moment. His eyes traced the curve of her neck, the way his shirt hung loosely on her frame, revealing tantalizing glimpses of skin.

"Let's not do anything stupid, though," he said as he let go of the folded shirt, his decision made. "Let's not hurt Rapunzel."

The mention of Rapunzel's name hung in the air between them.

Cassandra shifted slightly, making room for Eugene on the bed. As they settled in, Cassandra nestled against Eugene, her head finding a comfortable spot on his shoulder. In response, Eugene wrapped his arm around her, pulling her closer. The warmth of her body against his was both soothing and unsettling, a poignant reminder of the unusual circumstances they found themselves in.

For a moment, they lay there in silence, each lost in their own thoughts.

"What about the line?" Eugene asked, his voice breaking the silence. He was referring to the invisible boundary they had established when they first started sharing a bed, a line that was supposed to keep them safely on opposite sides.

"It's on the other bed," Cassandra replied, her tone light but serious.

Eugene chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Of course it is."

Cassandra shifted slightly, her breath warm against Eugene's neck. "You know, after this, you go back to her," she said, her voice betraying the tears that threatened to well up. "I go back to an oversized bed."

The weight of her words hung heavy in the air, filled with unspoken longing and a bittersweet realization of their situation. Eugene felt a pang in his chest.

"Cass?" he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Hmm?" she responded, her voice muffled against his shoulder.

"Thanks for... well, for everything. For putting up with me, for listening. For being here." Eugene said with genuine gratitude while filled with regret for what could never be.

Cassandra was quiet for a moment, and Eugene wondered if she had fallen asleep. Then, so softly he almost missed it, she whispered, "I want you to kiss me."

Eugene's breath caught in his throat. He knew he should refuse, but the vulnerability in Cassandra's voice made his heart ache.

"We agreed: nothing stupid," he said with as much sternness as he could muster, though his resolve was wavering.

"You're going back to her. I am going back to nothing," Cassandra said, her voice thick with emotion. "This is petty and selfish. But I want you to have a lingering regret. A burden. Something from me you're going to carry forever."

Eugene's heart raced. "What's with you and the unreasonable requests tonight?"

"Let's face it, Eugene. We're way past reasonable." She chuckled as she straddled his waist, her eyes shining with a mix of determination and vulnerability. "Can you do it? For me?"

With that, Eugene reached out and drew her in for a kiss. It was soft at first, hesitant, but quickly deepened as suppressed feelings and tension poured out. The kiss was electric, passionate, and filled with a bittersweet longing that neither had fully acknowledged until this moment.

Neither of them wanted to let it end. When they finally broke apart, Cassandra kept her face close to Eugene's, her smile wide and slightly breathless.

"You loved it. I can tell," she said, her voice a mix of triumph and wonder.

"What's there not to love?" Eugene replied, his voice husky with emotion.

"You know... both our contests were inconclusive..." Cassandra mused, perhaps trying to dissipate the tension or perhaps seeking a way to prolong their moment.

Eugene didn't know why she brought that up now. "Actually, they were cut and dry... I-"

"How about a third contest? Winner takes all," Cassandra interrupted, a mischievous glint in her eye.

"I'm listening," Eugene said, intrigued despite himself.

Cassandra's eyes locked with Eugene's, a challenge glinting in their depths. "The one who kisses the other more wins," she proposed, her voice low and husky.

In one fluid motion, Eugene pinned her to the bed, his body hovering tantalizingly close. Cassandra's breath caught in her throat, her words coming out in short gasps. "You like to be on top. Well, I too-"

Eugene silenced her with a searing kiss that left them both dizzy and breathless.

"Bottom's good too..." Cassandra murmured when they finally parted, desire and amusement mingling in her voice. "Let me go, please... I want to try something. I think you'll love it."

Eugene hesitated, then slowly loosened his grip, ready to reclaim control if needed. He enjoyed her current position... for now.

With a sensual grace, Cassandra wrapped her legs around Eugene's waist, pulling him closer. Her left arm snaked around his back as she lifted herself up, her other hand tangling in his hair as she drew him in for another passionate kiss.

Eugene lowered himself onto her, their bodies pressed together. A moan escaped Cassandra, the sound sending shivers down Eugene's spine, and turning his mind into mush.

"I love it..." she whispered, her eyes heavy-lidded with pleasure.

Eugene gazed down at her, captivated by her expression. Cassandra met his gaze, her voice husky with desire. "Have your way with me... aside from the one stupid thing, of course..." Her eyes suddenly sharpened, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. "After that, I'll have my way with you..."

"Oh, you'll have to earn that last thing!" Eugene teased, thrilled by her playful challenge even in the throes of passion.

"Eugene..." Cassandra purred, "That's what I'm doing. You will let me have my way with you."

"You can't just-"

"Sure I can. I know you will let me."

"What does that entail exactly?"

"Who knows? See? You're curious. I don't want to spoil the surprise. Less talking, more kissing!"

"Hey! I'm the one calling the shots now..."

"Then be on top of... being on top. Or do you want me to show you how?"

Fourteenth Night

They slept apart.