Under The Mask

Chapter twenty six: Just Crossmare

2873 words. TW implied self harm (there's fluff to make up for it).

"Cross?"

"Hm?"

Both had already woken up and were cuddling again. Nightmare seemed hesitant with his question. "Because of... him..." Nightmare took a breath. He hugged Cross tighter. "Have you ever... hurt yourself?"

Cross was silent.

"It's alright, take your time." Nightmare already feared the answer.

"... Not anymore."

Nightmare breath almost got stuck in his throat. He hugged Cross closer and kissed him. He didn't know how to comfort his boyfriend, but he'd do anything for Cross' happiness. "Darling..." He took both of Cross' hands in his while Cross was on his lap and started rubbing soothing circles on them. He thought about his words. "I'm glad you stopped, but please, if you feel like it again, talk to me. I want to help you. To give you all of the love, affection and attention you missed out on."

"Thank you. I love you so, so much." Cross looked near teary eyed.

Nightmare kissed both of his hands. "Anything for you; anything. I love you too, Crossy." Nightmare held him closer, if that's possible, and spoke up again. "Do you need anything? I could get it myself if you don't feel like getting up."

"Some chocolate would be nice."

"Alright, love." He kissed Cross' forehead.

"I love you."

"I love you too." Nightmare smiled at his love and closed the door behind him. While he was looking for the chocolate, he couldn't shake his head off of what Cross said. He gripped the counter so hard, it might have cracked. His tendrils threw a temper tantrum behind him. How dare that thing hurt Cross?! His perfect angel!

Nightmare took a deep breath, he'd calm himself, for Cross. He pulled out a chocolate bar and headed upstairs. He gave it to Cross, who's gorgeous eyes lit up at the sight of it and him. "Here you go, beautiful."

Cross turned purple at the new nickname. "Thanks." He tore open the shiny wrapper and bit his favourite snack. Nightmare slipped in beside him and hugged him from the side. Cross laughed and took another bite, he used his other hand to pet Nightmare's hair. Nightmare pressed closer for more affection. "I'm so grateful to have someone like you in my life..." Cross rested his head on his boyfriend's.

"I'm grateful we ever met in the first place."

"I am too."

"Hey, we should go get breakfast soon. Do you want to go somewhere?"

"Of course." Cross smiled and kissed his cheek.

"Let's go to a pancake place." Nightmare suggested, getting up. Cross fell with a small 'omphf' when Nightmare got up. He followed his boyfriend anyway. "Do you want to change first?" He grabbed some clothes, consisting of his and Cross'.

Cross looked down at himself. "Yeah." He took his own from the pile.

"Alright, I'll wait."

"Thanks." He went to the washroom to change again. He came out with a black baggy turtleneck with a white stripe across and light jeans.

Nightmare smiled at him and went to change as well. Cross went downstairs to get somewhat ready and wait for Nightmare, who came down not too soon after. "Hey."

Cross looked up from putting on his shoes and smiled. "Hey."

"Did I ever give you a tour?"

"Uh, no, you didn't." That just occurred to Cross.