Crimson Bonds [MxM]

11

Somebody to you

It has been two weeks since Peter ended his relationship with Theoden. He can't deny that Theoden and the Forest Nymph girl—whoever she is—are now inseparable, at least in public. Peter has resolved to ignore them and everything related to his ex. He's focusing on moving forward, even if it often feels like trudging through mud.

Coming home that night, Peter told Anouk everything. While she was glad he finally made the decision to end the relationship, she was adamant that he needed to stop wallowing in self-pity. She had practically begged him to communicate more, to talk to her when he felt overwhelmed. Peter knows she's right. He's trying, but it's difficult. The world still often seems dark and colourless, except when he's with Saifa.

Bright Saifa. Smiley Saifa.

Since that night Saifa stayed with him, their bond has grown. Peter frequently visits the convenience store where he works, and they often chat about anything and everything. It's become a welcome distraction from his otherwise dreary routine. Despite this, Peter struggles with the emotions Saifa's presence evokes—emotions he's not entirely ready to face.

Tonight, Peter is behind the counter at the convenience store, working his late shift. It's 10:30 p.m., and he's attempting to take notes from a thick Faerie law book for an upcoming essay. His eyes are heavy despite the strong coffee he's had earlier. The store is eerily quiet, save for the soft hum of the refrigeration units and the occasional rustle of his pages. He checks the time—he still has half an hour before closing.

Frustration mounts as he realises he's not retaining any information. He looks longingly at his stash of snacks under the counter—a cup of spicy kimchi noodles sounds incredibly tempting right now. Just as he reaches for it, the doorbell jingles, startling him.

Peter looks up to see Saifa's tall silhouette against the store's bright fluorescent lights. Saifa's familiar brown hair flops over his forehead as he enters, and his smile is a welcome contrast to the monotony of Peter's shift. Saifa heads straight for the snack aisle, his presence filling the store with a warmth that feels almost tangible.

"Hey!" Saifa greets cheerfully, his smile broadening as he sees Peter.

"Hey," Peter replies, unable to suppress a smile of his own.

Saifa grabs a caramel macchiato from the fridge and approaches the counter. Peter rings it up, noticing Saifa's casual ease and the readiness of his payment. The Fae adjusts his coat and guitar strap, a movement that highlights his well-defined physique. For a brief moment, he looks almost ethereal under the store's harsh lights—like a golden statue. Peter finds himself captivated, his mind momentarily blank.

When their eyes meet, Peter sees a calm softness in Saifa's emerald gaze, but there's an undercurrent of something more intense. It's both comforting and unsettling. Peter tries to shake off the feeling.

"So, working tonight?" Peter asks, gesturing to the guitar slung across Saifa's back.

"Yes!" Saifa's smile widens. "Big show tonight. It's Friday, so it's going to be a long night." He hesitates before adding, "Would you like to come by after your shift? We could grab a drink together."

Peter smirks, noticing the faint blush rising on Saifa's cheeks. It's endearing and slightly confusing. "You look like a strawberry," he comments, leaning on the counter with a playful grin. "It's kind of cute."

Saifa's blush deepens, and he stammers, "That doesn't answer my question."

Peter laughs softly. "I'll come by, but I'm pretty tired. I might not be the life of the party."

Saifa's blush fades into a content smile. "It's alright. I'd just like you to be there."

With a wave and a hurried exit, Saifa leaves the store. Peter watches him go, feeling a strange mix of emotions. His heart tugs with an unfamiliar sensation, and he can't quite place it.

***

Not far from the convenience store, Saifa walks briskly toward the venue. His mind is in turmoil. Peter's casual comment and the way he had looked at him earlier had set Saifa's heart racing. He has always maintained control over his emotions, but tonight Peter had managed to break through his defences. All of them. With one smile. One comment.

Saifa runs a hand through his hair, trying to clear his thoughts. No one has ever called him cute before. He's always seen himself as handsome and confident, not exactly the definition of cuteness. He's not after all. He's tall, muscular and handsome. Not cute.

As he walks, Saifa reflects on Peter's previous partners. Theoden had been slender and round-faced—more traditionally cute. He wonders if his kindness and gentleness will ever be enough to stand out in Peter's heart.

Arriving at the venue, he takes a deep breath, trying to focus on his performance. The night promises to be long and demanding, but Peter's encouragement echoes in his mind. Saifa's hope flutters, a small but persistent light in his otherwise troubled heart. Maybe, just maybe, there's a chance for something meaningful to grow between them.