BUILD
Build woke up to the sound of clattering coming from outside his bedroom. He glanced at the alarm clock on his bedside table—it was already 7:56 AM. He had stayed up late the previous night, his mind racing with thoughts about Bible telling him he wanted to introduce him to his family. It was a big step, one that filled him with a mix of excitement and nervousness.
After washing his face and brushing his teeth, Build stepped out of his room and looked around. There he found Bible, his man, cooking breakfast. A soft smile played on Build's lips as he leaned against the kitchen doorframe, watching Bible's strong back moving with ease as he worked.
Unable to resist, Build tiptoed over and wrapped his arms around Bible from behind. "Good morning," he whispered.
Bible turned his head slightly, his smile as warm as ever. "Good morning, love. How was your sleep? You'll have to tell me about your dreams later, okay?" he said, gently brushing his hand along Build's cheek.
"Hm, let me help you cook," Build offered, pecking Bible lightly on the lips.
"No, you just sit there and watch me. Shoo, shoo," Bible teased, playfully waving Build toward the kitchen chair.
Build pouted but obediently sat down, watching Bible move around the kitchen. He couldn't help but admire how Bible had grown more muscular and fit since they'd first met. He loved how Bible stayed in shape with his morning runs and trips to the gym. Build wasn't much into exercising himself—dancing was more his style—but sometimes he felt a twinge of jealousy at the thought of others watching Bible work out.
Bible finally turned around, carrying plates of pesto pasta and crispy bacon. "It's done. Let's eat," he said, setting the food down.
As they began eating, Build noticed Bible watching him expectantly. He always did this—waiting for Build's approval.
"It's delicious, as always," Build reassured him. "You don't have to ask every time. You know you're a great cook."
Satisfied, Bible smiled and started eating as well. A few minutes into their meal, Bible's phone rang from the living room. He excused himself to answer it and returned shortly after.
"P'Pond says we should be at the studio by now," Bible said, looking a bit apologetic.
Build's stomach tightened with sudden pressure, and he began shoveling food into his mouth, almost choking on it.
"Hey, slow down," Bible laughed, handing him a glass of water. "I told them we'd be a little late. It's okay."
Relieved, Build relaxed and finished his meal at a more reasonable pace.
***
As they drove to the studio, Build's thoughts wandered. "Have you heard anything from Us lately?" he asked, glancing at Bible, who was driving with one hand, the other firmly interlaced with his own.
Bible shook his head. "No, he hasn't contacted me. I think he just needs some time. He'll come back when he's ready," Bible said, lifting Build's hand to his lips for a quick kiss.
Once they arrived at the studio, Bible parked the car and turned to Build. "You go ahead, I'll follow you in a minute."
"Okay," Build replied, giving Bible a quick kiss before stepping out of the car.
As he made his way down the hallway, he bumped into Jeff, who was distracted by his phone.
"Oh, sorry! Are you alright?" Jeff asked, looking up.
"I'm fine," Build replied with a smile.
"Where's your *not* boyfriend?" Jeff teased, his usual smirk in place.
Build chuckled. He wanted to tell everyone about him and Bible, but for now, it would have to wait. "The *not* boyfriend is here!" came Bible's voice from behind, and Build turned to see him walking down the hall, carrying two iced coffees. Build's heart swelled with affection.
"The managers are stressed waiting for you two," Jeff said with a grin. "You should hurry."
Bible handed one of the coffees to Build and smiled. "I'll apologize when we get there."
"Good luck, you two," Jeff said before heading off.
"Thank you!" Build and Bible called out in unison, causing them both to gasp and burst into laughter.
Everything felt perfect—waking up with Bible, enjoying breakfast together, heading to work, and now laughing and holding iced coffees. Build felt as though he were in a dream, a happiness so pure it was almost surreal.
"Ble," Build suddenly whispered.
"Yes?" Bible raised an eyebrow, his expression curious.
Build's emotions surged, his heart bursting with love. "I love you," he said, his voice full of sincerity.
Bible's eyes widened, and he stumbled over his response. "I—I love—" he started, but before he could finish, Build took off running down the hall, leaving Bible standing there, flushed and flustered.
When Build reached the door to the studio, he looked back and smiled at Bible, who was still recovering from the sudden outburst of affection. Moments later, Bible caught up, gently placing his hands on Build's waist.
"What was that for?" Bible asked, his voice soft.
"Nothing, I just felt like saying it," Build replied with a grin.
Bible opened the studio door for him, and they walked inside together.
As they entered, Build's heart stopped for a moment. There, standing beside P'Pond, was someone he hadn't expected to see. The sight of the man made his hands tremble, not out of love, but out of the unexpected intensity of the moment.
Bible noticed Build's reaction and straightened up, stepping slightly closer to him. "We're here," Bible announced.
The man turned around, locking eyes with Build.
His smile was unsettling, a reminder of a past Build had left behind.
Bible, ever polite, stepped forward and extended his hand. "I'm Bible Wichapas. Pleased to meet you."
The man grasped Bible's hand firmly, his gaze still fixed on Build.
"I'm Blue,"
