Estimated Reading Time: 17 Minutes

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Shy Blonde

Sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm glow over the two Earthbound boys as they stirred awake. Ness's arms were loosely wrapped around Lucas, and as awareness settled in, both faces flushed with embarrassment.

"Sorry, haha..." Ness chuckled nervously, quickly pulling his arms away.

Lucas simply shook his head, a soft smile playing on his lips. "You know I like it."

"Right…" Ness scratched the back of his head and looked away. "Well, before we go to the movies, do you want to get breakfast?"

Lucas: "The movies?"

Ness: "Yes. Remember I said I would take you. You wanted to see the—Sonic movie…"

Lucas: "Oh! Yeah, that's right!"

Ness: "Why Sonic?"

Lucas: "Because everyone's watching it."

Ness: "But I hate him."

Lucas: "No you don't~"

Ness let out an exasperated sigh before slinging his rucksack over his shoulder. The two gathered their things and headed to the food court for breakfast. Just as they settled into their seats, Sonic, ever the social whirlwind, spotted them and zipped over, grinning as he eagerly joined their conversation.

Sonic: "Yooo! How was your guys's fuck sess last night?"

Ness: "We didn't fuck!"

Sonic: "Suuure you didn't~"

Lucas: *Chuckles* "Hi, Sonic."

Sonic: "Sup. Plannin' to see my movie?"

Lucas: "Yep."

Sonic: "Yoo, what!"

Ness: "Unfortunately."

Sonic: "Damn, Ness. Watchin' my movie on premiere date? God, you're obsessed."

Ness: "You're the one obsessed!"

Sonic: "You're the one watchin' my movie on premiere date."

Ness: "You're the one always breaking into my room!"

Sonic: "That's because you're lonely and you enjoy my company. I feel bad for you."

Ness: "I always tell you to get out!"

Lucas: "Dad... Dad... please stop fighting."

Sonic: "Hahaha!"

Ness: "He's being an asshole."

Sonic: "Nah, you're just too sensitive."

Ness: "I'm not. You're just annoying."

Lucas: "Hahaha~"

Sonic: "If I'm so annoying, then why does Lucas think I'm funny?"

Ness: "Because Lucas has a poor sense of humor."

Both Lucas and Sonic gasped in unison. "Wow."

Ness furrowed his brows, glaring at them. "Yeah. I said it. What now?"

Lucas: "I'm hurt."

Ness: "Oh shut up. You bully me all the time."

Lucas: "What? Meee? I'm a sweet little angel."

Sonic: "Yeah, dude. Look at this guy. He couldn't hurt a fly."

Ness: "I hate both of you."

Lucas and Sonic kept teasing Ness until they had all finished their food.

"Alright, see ya, blue stain," Ness said, standing up and stretching. "We got an annoying movie to watch."

The two Earthbound boys started heading toward their destination. Unfortunately for Ness, Sonic cheerfully trotted after them.

Ness: "Dude, get lost."

Sonic: "Nah, I'm comin' with."

Ness: "What? Hell no!"

Lucas: "I don't mind."

Ness: "Lucas… it was supposed to be just you and me remember?"

Sonic: "Don't worry. I won't interrupt you two making out."

Ness: "We're not gonna do that!"

Sonic: "'gonna'?"

Ness: "What?"

Sonic: "I'm just surprised. You said a contraction."

Ness: "Why's that surprising?"

Sonic: "You never say 'gonna'."

Ness: "Yes I do."

Sonic: "No you don't."

Ness: "Who cares? Why do you always point out how I talk?"

Sonic: "Like your breathy y's."

Ness: "They're not breathy!"

Lucas: "They're a little breathy."

Ness: "Lucas!"

Sonic: "Hahaha! And doesn't he sound bitchy too?"

Lucas: "Yeah, kinda."

Ness: "Dude!"

Sonic: "Hahaha! Like why's his voice so high pitched?"

Lucas: "Especially for a guy."

Ness: "Lucas, your voice is high pitched."

Lucas: "Yeah, but it's not whiny like yours."

Sonic: "Hahaha! You tell em, blondie~"

Ness: "Being around Sonic is turning you into a bully."

Lucas: "I always bullied you."

Ness: "Okay, but not this bad."

The three finally arrived at the movie theater, where, thanks to Sonic's reputation, they managed to get in for free.

"See? I just got you guys free seats. You're welcome," Sonic smirked, crossing his arms proudly.

Ness: "It's only because it's your movie. Next time we won't be so lucky."

Sonic: "I'm pretty good at sweet talkin' the receptionists."

Ness: "Suuuure."

Lucas: "Thanks, Sonic."

Sonic: "No prob~"

Ness: "Whatever."

Ness bought snacks for himself and Lucas, while Sonic, being the star of the show, helped himself to whatever he wanted for free.

With their treats in hand, they made their way to the correct theater and settled into their seats—Ness on the left, Lucas in the middle with the popcorn, and Sonic on the right.

During the movie, Ness reached for some popcorn, only to accidentally brush hands with Sonic.

The blue blur snickered, leaning in to whisper, "Gay."

Lucas stifled a laugh, while Ness rolled his eyes and angrily whispered back, "Shut up."

The movie started off as an annoyance to Ness—at least, that's what he told himself. But as the story unfolded, he found himself drawn in, nearly tearing up at Shadow's tragic backstory.

Reaching for more popcorn, he accidentally brushed hands with Lucas this time. Both boys flinched slightly, locking eyes. Lucas managed a cute yet flustered smile before turning back to the screen, happily munching on his popcorn as if nothing happened.

Ness hesitated, his gaze flickering between the screen and Lucas. Then, instead of reaching for more popcorn, he slowly reached for Lucas's hand. The moment their fingers intertwined, both of their hearts pounded in their chests.

Neither of them said a word. They just kept holding hands, pretending to focus on the movie, even though inside, they were completely freaking out.

Once the movie ended, the three of them stepped out of the theater, and into the theater lobby.

Of course, Sonic couldn't stop gloating. "Dude, was that movie the best or what?"

Ness rolled his eyes. "It was okay at best."

Lucas: "It was good! I hope it wins an award."

Sonic: "You know it will~"

Ness: "The only good part was Shadow."

Sonic: "Nah, it was me~"

Ness: "It's a different Sonic. Both are annoying as hell."

Sonic: "That one was a lil annoyin' I'm not gonna lie."

Ness: "You're all annoying! Now if you'll excuse us, we're going to do our own thing."

Sonic: "Whaaat? Nah, let's hit the arcade."

Lucas: "That sounds like fun."

Ness: "Why do you like Sonic so much?"

Lucas: "He's fun."

Sonic: "Hell yeah I am~"

After leaving the theater, the three made their way to the arcade, eager to kill some time. They played a variety of games—racing, shooters, pinball, and air hockey.

Of course, Sonic dominated every single one, effortlessly beating Ness at everything. Even in air hockey, where he went up against both of them, he still came out on top.

Ness was pissed. His frustration only made it funnier for Sonic and Lucas, who couldn't stop laughing at his reactions.

Ness pouted for a moment, his competitive spirit still stinging from his losses. But then, his eyes landed on a claw machine.

Oh, I'm pretty good at these. I'll win Lucas something. A spark of confidence returning to him. He marched over to the machine, with Sonic and Lucas following close behind.

Sonic: "Aww, gonna win your boo somethin'?"

Ness ignored Sonic's teasing comment, focusing on the claw machine as he added coins. The machine whirred to life, lights flashing as he scanned the array of plushies.

Which one was the easiest to grab? His eyes landed on a familiar plush... Oh, gross. A Sonic plush. Hell no. He immediately shook his head, refusing to even try.

Instead, he aimed for a different one, a bit harder to grab, but it was worth the challenge. Winning a Sonic plush would mean endless teasing.

Ness stuck his tongue out slightly, his focus intense as he lined up the claw. With a steady hand, he pressed the button. The claw dropped, slowly making its way down and clinging to the plush.

Sonic and Lucas watched, eyes widening in anticipation. But just as the claw began to lift, it lost its grip, and the plush slipped free.

Ness groaned, his frustration bubbling up. "Oh come on!" he muttered, shaking his head.

"Hahaha! Nice try, Cheddar Biscuit," Sonic teased, his grin widening. "Move over." He pushed Ness aside, effortlessly taking over the machine.

"Hey!" Ness yelped, helplessly watching as Sonic grabbed the claw and, with ease, snagged the Sonic plush.

Sonic flashed him a smug smirk, tossing the plush over to Lucas. With a wink and finger guns, he said, "Here ya go, blondie."

Ness noticed Lucas's cheeks turning pink as Sonic casually flirted with him. The blonde looked away, clearly flustered by the attention.

"Well, duh, you caught the easiest one," Ness grumbled, crossing his arms, trying to hide his irritation.

Sonic: "Uh oh. Someone's jealous~"

Lucas: *Giggles*

Ness: "Grrrr. I'll show you!"

Ness shoved Sonic aside and added more coins to the machine, determination written all over his face. He failed again.

Sonic couldn't help but laugh, teasing, "He's tryin' so hard to impress ya~"

Lucas, still flustered, couldn't help but find it a little charming. Despite all his failures, Ness kept going.

"Oh my god… this thing is rigged," Ness griped, frustration clear in his voice.

"Nah, you're just—"

"Yo, Sonic!" A voice called out, interrupting Sonic mid-insult.

The group turned around to see Captain Falcon and Min-min.

Sonic: "Oh, sup guys."

C. Falcon: "Dude, I just watched your movie."

Min-min: "It was good."

Sonic: "Well of course. It's about me. You better believe it's good."

The two waved, and Sonic, always eager for attention, happily left Ness and Lucas behind.

"There he goes again," Lucas commented, watching as the blue blur zipped away.

"Good," Ness muttered, crossing his arms, trying to hide his annoyance, which caused Lucas to chuckle.

Ness turned his attention back to the claw machine. He once again stuck his tongue out a little trying to focus. This time however, he was able to win Lucas a plushie.

"See? I managed to snag one," Ness said with a smug smirk, handing Lucas the blooper plush. "And it was far more difficult than that garish Sonic plush. Naturally, Sonic went for the easiest option to inflate his own ego, but I put in the extra effort for you."

Lucas couldn't help but grin, feeling a warm flush spread across his cheeks. "Thank you, Ness~"

Ness: "Why of course. Now what should we do next?"

Lucas: "Let's go home, and hang out."

Ness: "Okay."

The two made their way back to Ness's place, where they played Stardew Valley for a while before settling into bed, watching TV shows like they always did. As they relaxed, Ness's phone buzzed with a new text.

He glanced at the screen, seeing it was from Tina. A wave of dread washed over him.

Oh god, is she texting to tell me that she's now dating Kip? His mind spiraled into worst-case scenarios as he hesitated to open up the message.

Lucas: "You okay?"

Ness: "Y-yeah."

Lucas: "Are you sure? You've been staring at your phone for a bit and you look upset."

Ness: "It's nothing."

Ness tossed his phone aside, forcing a smile as he tried to shake off the unease. Lucas, sensing his discomfort, looked at him warily but ultimately decided to let it go. They both refocused on the TV screen.

Lucas seemed engrossed in the show, but Ness, on the other hand, was lost in his thoughts. Why Kip? He didn't seem interested in her before. Then again, I don't really know him all that well. His mind spiraled, confusion and frustration building. Ugh, but why now? Is he doing this because he knows I have a thing for Tina? Is he trying to get in the way?

What, he thinks I'm trying to steal his best friend? I would never! I'm not controlling… well, I guess I used to be, but not with Tina. I've never tried to dictate what she can or can't do. Except that one time at the party when she was messed up, and I told her to stop doing drugs… but that was for her own good! Kip's the irresponsible one, enabling her bad habits. I was just trying to help.

His thoughts swirled. Her choosing Kip over me is ridiculous. Then again, I guess I never officially asked her out… I just thought... goddammit, why are people so complicated?

"I love this show," Lucas laughed, pulling Ness out of his spiraling thoughts.

Ness glanced over at the blonde, a small smile tugging at his lips. He couldn't help but notice something different in the way Lucas expressed his joy. There had been times in the past when Lucas would laugh, but there was always an underlying tension—a feeling that maybe he was masking something, and that genuine laughter wouldn't last.

But now, watching Lucas laugh, it was clear that the blonde was more relaxed. His laughter was vibrant and genuine. It was a subtle change, but it was comforting. Ness realized, with a sense of warmth, that after everything they'd been through, things were finally better between them.

With a surge of confidence, Ness casually placed his hand on Lucas's thigh. The blonde's breath hitched, and his relaxed demeanor shifted to one of nervousness.

Lucas turned to face him, his face flushed with embarrassment. Ness smirked, watching as the blonde's eyes widened in surprise. It was oddly satisfying to see his best friend squirm at the smallest gesture, knowing he had the power to fluster him so easily.

Ness shifted closer, and without thinking, the two closed their eyes and pressed their lips together. The kiss was gentle, but it carried an intensity that neither could ignore. It wasn't the same as the raw, desperate kiss they shared when they were drunk the other day. No, this time it felt more aware, more meaningful, and yet equally thrilling. The air between them was charged, and the moment hung on the edge of something deeper.

But just as quickly as the kiss had begun, Ness's mind wandered to Tina. He didn't want to think about her—didn't want to ruin what was happening with Lucas—but the truth was undeniable. He still had feelings for her. He pulled away suddenly, the warmth of the moment fading as he distanced himself.

Lucas blinked, confusion and concern flashing in his eyes. "Oh. A-are you okay?" he asked softly, his voice tinged with worry.

Ness: "Y-yeah, sorry I… m-maybe we're moving a little too fast."

Lucas: "No pressure. We can take it as slowly as you want."

Ness: "Thanks. S-sorry."

Lucas: "Don't apologize~ I want you to feel comfortable."

Ness: "It's just still weird, y'know."

Lucas: "It still feels like a dream."

Ness: "Exactly. It's crazy that after all these years, we're doing this."

Lucas: "I know what you mean."

Ness: "I'm not used to it. Sorry…"

Lucas: "Stop apologizing, you goof."

Ness: "I don't want you to think that I'm not trying."

Lucas: "The fact that you kissed me just now is enough to convince me that you are. This is all I could ever ask for."

Ness: "Thanks."

Lucas: "I should be thanking you. For giving us a try."

Ness: "Of course."

The two lay there, watching TV in silence. The stillness between them was a little awkward at first, but gradually, the tension began to fade. As the minutes passed, they found themselves relaxing into the quiet comfort of each other's presence, letting the familiar ease of their friendship return.

Sonic: "Sup guys~"

Ness: "Aah!"