Red, White & Royal Blue Stories

• Can't Look in a Mirror • Alex § Henry § Romeo § Harry •

𝒉𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒐

Trigger warning: self harm - implied suicidal behaviour - implied depression - gender dysphoria

• ———— •

Romeo didn't mind flying, it used to be a constant in his life, travelling to and fro between America and England to see either side of his family. As he grew older the visits became less frequent, but his steady communication over text was suitable enough to sustain a friendship with his royal cousins.

As he's so used to it, he didn't think anything could change the repetitive, almost laborious notion of flight, that was until he flew with Moreau.

He promised he wasn't scared of flights. When they arrived at the airport and he stepped out the car to be met with a hug from an overly excited Anastasia, and a relaxed handshake from Vivienne, he coolly stated he was absolutely fine with flying. He had done it once or twice as a child and never had an issue.

Turns out, he was a huge liar.

They seated fine, conversation flowed easily across the teenagers, Romeo internally thrilled how well he and his cousins got along (family relationships were important, after all) but when the plane took off he shrunk in his seat and clutched Romeo's hand so tight both of their skin paled white.

"I'm going to die" Moreau muttered, head tilted towards the ceiling, eyes screwed shut as the plane went through a little turbulence.

Romeo snorted beside him, "you'll be fine, babe"

It didn't do much to reassure him, unfortunately nothing he did really helped, so he simply held his hand and murmured assurances whenever he felt necessary.

It was still a surprise to him (and admittedly to Henry and Alex) that Moreau's mother allowed him to travel across the Atlantic. She wasn't thrilled with Romeo's family to begin with; but according to Moreau, he had asked, she upturned her nose, yet hesitantly agreed.

Moreau assumed it was due to the fact she didn't exactly like his presence and a couple days of alone time in her own home was too good of an opportunity to pass up.

Romeo had frowned, expressed his distaste for her and watched Moreau laugh fondly.

"I couldn't agree with you more" he had said. Romeo wanted him to move in with them then and there, but he knew asking for such a thing would put him in an awkward position. Because, realistically, why wouldn't one dive into the opportunity of moving away from a toxic environment to live full-time with their partner? It seemed like a dream come true, a great escape from their belligerent life.

However, Romeo knew Moreau. Knew that, against all odds, Moreau loved his mother, and wanted as much time with her as he could possibly have before she inevitably discovers his sexual orientation and kicks him out.

At that point, he'll offer his home. For now, he'll be the anchor Moreau needs when things get a little too much. Too... sad. And comfort him the best he can.

"How did you two meet?" Ana asked, sitting opposite them. Perks of having a private jet, spaced out and comfortable seating arrangements.

"In school" Romeo responded because he knew Moreau wasn't up for talking right now. As if on queue, he let out a slight, anguished groan. Ana glanced at him amusedly.

"It was after hours, me and Driss had finished cleaning the costume department when he showed himself" Romeo smiled down at the roof of Moreau's head. He had slid halfway down his chair, legs stretched out wide, hands gripping the armrests. "We spoke for a bit, I suggested we hang out again and... from there we fell for each other, I guess," he laughed, squeezing Moreau's wrist.