Theo Cross

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie wondered what that entailed but he didn't ask, hopefully it wouldn't be an issue. Idly he wondered if he knew anyone with a cat he could practice on. Or Theo would show him how. That worked. "Thanks." He wasn't sure what that would do for a good impression but it was far better then doing something the cat hated he was certain. He chuckled sheepisly at Theo's perceptive question. "A little," he answered honestly. "It just feels like it's going to be really awkward if Hastings doesn't like me." Jamie wasn't even sure how that would look. If they could only meet up here and not at Theo's it would be a bit of a strain on things possibly. That was if Theo even wanted to continue if his cat hated Jamie. Except Jamie wasn't even sure that was a thing. He chuckled at Theo's comment about the playoff beard. "That would be something to see. I've only made it to itchy whiskers stage so I've never been a fan of that whole tradition. Still like I said, you in a playoff beard would be something," he told Theo with a big grin. Montrose usually made it pretty far even if they didn't go all the way so he was sure Theo would be able to find out. He smiled again when Theo talked about catching up. "I was just wondering how it would be possible to do that, catch up, that is. But I'm happy for you to see where I've been and to get to see your flat before you move out. I probably won't move out till the season is over," he added. "Plenty of time to see it." Which was nice considering Theo was going to have his hands full with moving, finding his place on his new team, all while moving through the rest of the season and into the playoffs. He was glad this didn't have to be squeezed in there somewhere.

[chasertheo]

Theo smiled fondly when Jamie admitted he was a little nervous. Because he was worried things would be awkward if Hastings didn't like him. "Jamie," Theo said fondly, settling a hand on Jamie's arm. "It's very sweet that you care about that. But you don't need to worry, even if you don't know the right way to play with a cat, Hastings will like you just fine as long as you're not an arse, and you're never an arse, so there's nothing to worry about," Theo said, leaning in to give Jamie a soft kiss. Theo laughed at Jamie's comment about itchy whiskers, grinning wider just at that wide grin Jamie was giving to him. "Sure would be." The way Jamie was smiling at him like that, it almost felt possible that Theo might make it deep enough to have a playoff beard. For now, though, he was just glad to be leaving the Falcons for an amazing team. And glad to hear that his boyfriend wanted to help him move, and to see his old flat before he moved out. Theo's smile softened when Jamie said he'd also been wondering about how to get caught up. "Perfect. Maybe I can help you move, then," he added, happy at the thought of returning the favor, and really just the thought of helping Jamie with something so domestic. "And I do think it's possible, to get caught up," Theo added earnestly. "It might take awhile. We don't have to catch up on everything at once. But I want to know about all the stuff I missed while I was being an idiot. The big stuff and the small stuff."

[chasertheo]

"That's okay. I didn't before Hastings either. But Hastings is easy, he'll let you know when he wants you to pet him or play with him. I'm sure you two will get along just fine," Theo told Jamie with a smile. He wasn't worried about that. Even if Jamie didn't know what to do with a cat, he was too kind for that to be a problem. He'd figure it out. "Yeah, exactly," he replied to the next thing Jamie said. "Be nice to be settled before playoffs. Still wild I'm even gonna be in the playoffs," he added with a grin and a chuckle. Theo was still wrapping his head around that one too. He smiled when Jamie offered help with the packing. "Really? You'd do that?" Theo was warmed by the offer. They both led busy lives, and packing was not a fun task. But Jamie was offering to help him. "I'd love the help. Actually, mostly I just love any excuse to see you. But the help would be nice too," he admitted with a soft chuckle. "Plus it'd be nice for you to see my flat before I move to a house and have to get a bunch of new furniture to fill it. I know its not the same as us actually being together the last few years, but I like the idea of you seeing where I was living. What my life's been like," he admitted, his smile softening a little. Theo didn't want to linger on how stupid he'd been, but he also wanted to share all his his life with Jamie, even though it just made him feel like an idiot for not being braver, for making it so Jamie could have been with him the whole time.

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie laughed softly. "Good to know. Is he going to show me how to do either of those two things too," he added with amusement in his voice despite still being nervous about it. He'd already made a fairly good impression on Theo's dad. Though he wasn't sure how dating would affect that and wasn't thinking about that right now. But Hastings felt almost like a person he'd have to make a good impression on. A living being of Theo's at least. Confusing but he wanted to make a good impression on the cat if that kind of thing was even possible. Maybe a good impression on Theo over how he interacted with the cat. Thankfully he did not have time to try and figure the semantics out. He smiled when Theo said he couldn't believe he was going to the playoffs. "I know the feeling. But you'll do great," he added with a smile. Montrose and the Arrows had already won their spots but Puddlemere were close to getting theirs. Jamie hoped it would happen this year even though last year they hadn't managed to make it all the way to the last games. Regardless of where Puddlemere ended up he'd still be happy for Theo for getting to experience it. His smile widened when Theo said he wanted the help, and to see him. He felt a wave of something warm wash over him at Theo's additions about Jamie seeing where Theo was currently living. "I'd like that. Maybe we can find a time when you can see mine too." It wasn't exactly catching each other up but it was maybe a little bit too.

[chasertheo]

Theo laughed at Jamie's questions about Hastings. "He'll let you know if you're doing them wrong," he said with an amused grin. "But I can show you how, it's not difficult." Theo regarded Jamie for a moment, then added, "...Are you nervous?" He seemed like maybe he might be a little. Hopefully Jamie didn't actually mind cats. Maybe he was just unsure of sharing a space with an animal when he'd never done it before. Hasting was forgotten when Theo's thoughts turned the the playoffs, and the smile Jamie was giving him about the fact he would be playing in them for once. Theo was fairly certain Puddlemere was going to qualify soon. He sort of hoped he didn't have to play Jamie in his first playoffs. "Thanks," he said with a grin. "I'm just hoping we make it far enough for me to find out whether or not I can pull off a playoff beard." Obviously Theo was hoping for more than that, but right now he was especially just hoping they made it past round one. Montrose already had their spot, which left Theo feeling a lot of pressure for stepping onto the team. He wanted to prove he deserved to be there, even if he hadn't helped them earn their spot in the playoffs. He also, separately, wanted to catch Jamie up on his life in the past few years. Theo felt a warm feeling wash over him when Jamie said he wanted Theo to see his flat too, his smile widening at the offer. "I'd really like that. I know we've got a lot to catch up on, and maybe this is weird, but I like the idea of being able to picture you where you've been the past few years as you get me caught up."

[jamieyaxley]

"I don't really have experience with cats. Or any animals actually," Jamie confessed to Theo. Hopefully being awkward with his cat wouldn't make Theo change his mind about them dating. Aside from texting they hadn't really done much before tonight in the dating realm but Jamie still didn't want Theo to change his mind. He'd been on his mirror more in the short time between All Stars and tonight because even getting texts from Theo was enough to make him smile. He nodded his agreement about it being disappointing that they wouldn't get a quick turnaround to see each other again. It would have been nice. "Three days isn't too bad. I don't blame you about not wanting to stay in a hotel though. It'd be like having away games, all the time." Hotels weren't bad but they weren't home. Not to mention sometimes they could be bad if someone was loud or the bed wasn't comfortable. Too many variables out of your control with hotels. Especially when it came to playoffs. Jamie couldn't believe that Theo would be playing in those this year, he was excited for him. "If you need any help with the packing, I might be able to swing a few hours here and there in the next few days." Jamie wished he could make a better offer but he had practice and matches to work around.

[chasertheo]

"That's okay. I didn't before Hastings either. But Hastings is easy, he'll let you know when he wants you to pet him or play with him. I'm sure you two will get along just fine," Theo told Jamie with a smile. He wasn't worried about that. Even if Jamie didn't know what to do with a cat, he was too kind for that to be a problem. He'd figure it out. "Yeah, exactly," he replied to the next thing Jamie said. "Be nice to be settled before playoffs. Still wild I'm even gonna be in the playoffs," he added with a grin and a chuckle. Theo was still wrapping his head around that one too. He smiled when Jamie offered help with the packing. "Really? You'd do that?" Theo was warmed by the offer. They both led busy lives, and packing was not a fun task. But Jamie was offering to help him. "I'd love the help. Actually, mostly I just love any excuse to see you. But the help would be nice too," he admitted with a soft chuckle. "Plus it'd be nice for you to see my flat before I move to a house and have to get a bunch of new furniture to fill it. I know its not the same as us actually being together the last few years, but I like the idea of you seeing where I was living. What my life's been like," he admitted, his smile softening a little. Theo didn't want to linger on how stupid he'd been, but he also wanted to share all his his life with Jamie, even though it just made him feel like an idiot for not being braver, for making it so Jamie could have been with him the whole time.

[jamieyaxley]

"Yeah, that skill is very handy," he agreed with a smile. Jamie had always been pleased he'd got his license even before he knew it might help in a situation like this. But tonight he was even more pleased. He laughed when Theo brought up the player. "I didn't think you had that Hastings strolling around your garden," he teased. "You have a cat? That's sweet. I thought it must have been a pet, just didn't realize you had one." Back at All Stars it had felt like not much was new with Theo. Obviously some things but not a lot. Now he was starting to realize how much life they both had lived and missed from the other in the time they hadn't talked. It felt like more than he would have thought without this reminder. Jamie wasn't sure what to say about it because it wasn't like they could just sit down and pour out the last few years to one another. Maybe it was better to think about other things. "You'll have some time to figure out the house thing because we just played them," he told Theo with a 'sorry,' look.

[chasertheo]

Theo chuckled at Jamie’s teasing about Hastings walking around his garden, before nodding at Jamie’s addition. “Yeah, he’s a sweet little cat. I think you'll like him." Theo was excited about the idea of Jamie meeting his cat, mostly because it meant intertwining Jamie into his life even further. Theo wanted that. He wanted to catch up on everything they'd missed in the past few years while Theo was being an idiot. Part of him wanted to say something about it, but he also didn't want to dwell too much in what had happened. He wanted to move forward with Jamie. But learning about the things they'd missed out on felt like an important part of moving forward together. Jamie meeting Hastings felt like a step in that direction, at least. Before Theo could decide on saying something, Jamie spoke up again and Theo gave him a soft smile. "Disappointing, but helpful," he said, because he'd much prefer he get to play Jamie's team again as soon as possible. Though it would also be a shame to play his team so soon they couldn't get together after. “I’ve never moved mid-season, but I’m hoping to find something quickly. I don’t fancy the idea of living out of a hotel during a quidditch season, especially so close to playoffs. And I'm expected at the Montrose pitch ready for practice in three days." Theo shook his head slightly. That was going to be a lot. "Lucky for me my flat is small, and I'm pretty used to packing it up at this point." Three moves in three years--because he'd moved out of his dad's house after his first year on the Arrows--meant Theo was pretty good at the whole moving thing. And he'd tried not to accumulate too much extra clutter he'd just have to pack up again.

[chasertheo]

"Me? No, I wasn't saying that at all," Theo said quickly, surprised and then relieved that Jamie had been thinking Theo was thinking, rather than something Jamie was worried about. He relaxed with the smiled Jamie gave him, a smile pulling at his own lips when Jamie said he also wanted to figure things out together. "Good, I'm glad," Theo said. He smiled at Jamie's addition about a house. "I want a house," he said, certain of it even though it hadn't even been a thought in his mind until now. Jamie was right, it would be easier to see each other in a house, and now that Theo was moving anyways it just made sense to look for a house instead of a flat. Maybe he could find a house to rent instead of buying one, in case he got traded again. Or he'd just buy one and sell it if he had to. "Whatever makes it easiest for us to see each other is what I want," he added. "Plus, the extra privacy might be nice, I dunno what things are gonna be like at Montrose but I've heard their fans are crazy." The Falcons fans were pretty intense too, but Theo hadn't ever played dirty enough to become a fan favorite, and thankfully he'd played well enough not to be hated by the fans either. "Maybe I can find a house with a garden," Theo added, pleased with that thought. "Hastings would like that too."

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie was happy that they'd managed to figure out their miscommunication with what felt like ease. Much better than their last miscommunication, which Jamie was absolutely counting Theo running out of their first kiss as. His smile widened when Theo said he wanted a house. Jamie hadn't thought far enough in advance yet for what going to Theo's might look like but a house was good. Private. "That's what I want too," Jamie agreed when Theo said he wanted whatever makes it easiest. "Yeah, that's a consideration for sure. I've never worried about it before now but then I never had much of a personal life that mattered if it got out. I know [one of the guys who is going to be gone] got caught out bringing some woman to his hotel room last time we were in Montrose but I don't remember if that was a fan or just a lucky pap." Fans could be a lot but Jamie had always tried to stay grateful to them even when he just wanted to finish his lunch or buy something in peace. He msiled when Theo mentioned a garden. His place didn't have much of one but that hadn't mattered because he'd only wanted privacy. "Who is Hastings," he asked. Theo didn't seem like the type to get a house elf so it had to be a pet. Unless he was naming his plants which Jamie could maybe see. Of course not knowing if Theo had a house elf, pet, or even plants; despite the last one feeling like a given; was a weird feeling considering everything.

[chasertheo]

Theo's own smile widened when Jamie said that was what he wanted too. It was a relief that they were on the same page there after all. Less of a relief was hearing that Jamie had a teammate who'd been caught bringing a woman to his hotel room in Montrose. "Shit. All the more reason to get a house then. Good thing we can apparate too." That would help a lot with keeping things discreet. It was starting to hit Theo that things really would be different in Montrose in more ways than just not being on an awful team. But it would be good, Theo hoped. And Jamie didn't seem put off by that chance. Getting a house would certainly help too. And now that Theo was thinking about it, there were other advantages to a house as well. It was a surprise that Jamie didn't know who Hastings was; apparently Theo hadn't mentioned him on the phone yet. It was still odd having new parts of his life that had changed since the Arrows that Jamie didn't know about--because Theo had been an idiot--but Theo was glad that now he could share all those new things with Jamie. "Other than the greatest chaser of his generation," Theo said with a teasing smile, because he knew that Jamie would recognize the cat's namesake, "This particular Hastings is my cat. I got him when I first moved to Wigtown, it was my dad's idea. He was worried I'd get lonely," Theo admitted with a sheepish chuckle. It had been tough to leave both the Arrows and his dad after his first trade.

[jamieyaxley]

"I thought that's what you were saying," Jamie clarified. He supposed that maybe he ought to wonder about that. After all increased attention on Theo could mean Jamie getting caught in it but he hadn't gotten there. But Jamie felt warmth at Theo's words instead of cold dread at the idea of being caught. Because Theo wanted to figure out things together and get a house so they'd have prvacy there too. How could Jamie not smile fondly at Theo about all of that? "I want that too, figuring out how to make it work together." Jamie was still not sure how to make all of this work. Especially when he oculdn't do something as simple as take Theo out to celebrate his incredible good news. But he did know he wanted this with Theo. Not necessarily more now then at All Stars but the time apart had been harder then expected and only made him more determined to do what he could to make sure their time together wasn't marred by outside worries as much as possible. "I think a house would be a good idea. I know there's a lot of newer flats with enhanced security but it does feel more private here. But only if you want a house," he was quick to add not wanting to have Theo doing something he'd regret. When he'd first talked about wanting a house and mor privacy the realtor had told him about all the privacy advantages of new flats but they couldn't beat a house despite all the ways they were a step up from his current flat.

[chasertheo]

"Me? No, I wasn't saying that at all," Theo said quickly, surprised and then relieved that Jamie had been thinking Theo was thinking, rather than something Jamie was worried about. He relaxed with the smiled Jamie gave him, a smile pulling at his own lips when Jamie said he also wanted to figure things out together. "Good, I'm glad," Theo said. He smiled at Jamie's addition about a house. "I want a house," he said, certain of it even though it hadn't even been a thought in his mind until now. Jamie was right, it would be easier to see each other in a house, and now that Theo was moving anyways it just made sense to look for a house instead of a flat. Maybe he could find a house to rent instead of buying one, in case he got traded again. Or he'd just buy one and sell it if he had to. "Whatever makes it easiest for us to see each other is what I want," he added. "Plus, the extra privacy might be nice, I dunno what things are gonna be like at Montrose but I've heard their fans are crazy." The Falcons fans were pretty intense too, but Theo hadn't ever played dirty enough to become a fan favorite, and thankfully he'd played well enough not to be hated by the fans either. "Maybe I can find a house with a garden," Theo added, pleased with that thought. "Hastings would like that too."

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie thought maybe the nerves about his new team and how he'd fit in there were what had caused the shift in Theo's face. A valid worry given how awful the Falcons were though Jamie still had no question that Theo would do well. He was certain. It was a surprise then when Theo asked to go back to the change making things too dangerous. His own face showed his confusion when Theo said he wanted Jamie to tell him. "Me?" Jamie didn't follow. He was not the one who was going to be getting a lot more attention. "I think that's something you'll have to decide. I've never played on Montrose. Or with a generational talent," he pointed out, still very confused. Theo should know those things even if he hadn't paid attention to Jamie's career. He'd been the keeper of every team he'd played on since his first quidditch game. Even with Theo avoiding eye contact it would have been impossible not to know Jamie was the one in front of the goals. "I'm just saying that I'll support you whatever you feel is best. This is a huge deal for you and your career. I'd never complicate that." Jamie only wanted the best for Theo, even if the best wasn't him. It would hurt but he'd understand.

[chasertheo]

Theo's own expression turned confused when Jamie looked confused. Hadn't that been what Jamie was saying, that this could get too dangerous for him? Theo didn't see how that would be up to just him to decide, even if he was the one playing with a generational talent on Montrose. Which was still an insane thought. "Okay, so...you're not saying you're worried it'll get too dangerous for you?" Theo felt compelled to ask, just to make sure he was following. More eyes on Theo would also mean more potential risk for Jamie. "Because I hadn't thought about how more eyes on my quidditch might mean more eyes on me off the pitch, or how that might make this more difficult. But even if that does happen, I don't wanna end things. I wanna figure out how to make this work. Together. Starting with, I can get a house instead of a flat in Montrose. Then we'll have just as much privacy when we're there as we will when we're here." Maybe Theo was oversimplifying things. He didn't know how things would go on Montrose. But he was certain that no matter how complicated things got, he wasn't going to want to give up on Jamie.

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie got a little more serious when Theo mentioned that there would be more eyes on him, that was true. But he still smiled fondly when Theo said it was a lot to wrap his head around. "Montrose does feel like something we really should be celebrating, it's such a huge leap for you. Deserved fully," he added because he knew Theo had put in the work that had gotten him to what could only be thought of as the highlight of his career thus-far. "I definitely feel like we should focus on celebrating this, you, tonight. But once you get there and figure out how having more eyes on you is going to go, just know if this," Jamie motioned between them, "Feels too dangerous, I'll understand." He hadn't considered what Theo's profile rising thanks to playing with one of the stars; probably the star considering he was the clean cut, homegrown one of the pair of them; of the league would change things until Theo mentioned the increase in eyes. Which Jamie thought was Theo saying he'd thought of it. "But again, tonight the focus is on how incredible this is. I know you're nervous but you're going to do great. You always rise to a challenge. Prove yourself and anyone else who might have doubts wrong. Every time." Jamie was nothing but confident in Theo's abilities to do the same now. In fact he couldn't wait to see it. Playing with someone like Hollander meant he'd either sink or learn things that pushed his own game to the next level. He couldn't see Theo sinking, even under a lot of pressure.

[chasertheo]

Theo's grin went from sheepish to a little wider again when Jamie agreed that Montrose was a huge leap from him, and at Jamie's addition that it was deserved. Theo sure hoped it was, and Jamie saying so made it a lot easier to believe it. But it was a huge leap from the Falcons. And while Shane Hollander got most of the attention from Montrose fans, Theo would be flying right alongside him. That would mean a lot more people watching Theo's playing a lot more closely. Which was all he'd been thinking about when he said there would be more eyes on him, so he was taken aback when Jamie said he'd understand if their being together felt too dangerous. "Oh." Theo deflated, the smile dropping from his face as his brows furrowed. He hadn't even considered that more attention on him might make this more dangerous. But clearly Jamie was thinking about it. Fuck. Before he could say anything, Jamie was speaking again, though Theo could barely focus on his words. All he was thinking about was the fact that the best thing to happen to his quidditch career might end up ruining the best thing to happen to his personal life. He managed a small smile when Jamie said he'd prove himself wrong by rising to the challenge. "Thanks. But--can we go back? Do you think this change is gonna make things too dangerous? I appreciate that you wanna focus on the good news, but if you think this is gonna end up being too much I'd rather you just tell me now." Now that the thought was in his head, that the increased attention might make this more dangerous than Jamie wanted to deal with, Theo didn't think he'd really be able to enjoy any celebration until he knew what Jamie was thinking.

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie was pretty sure Theo had embellished the transfigured vase and he was, maybe weirdly, into it. But htat and how hot Theo had been crowding him like that were promptly forgotten with Theo's news. "I still want to celebrate you," he told Theo despite feeling warm that Theo said sharing it with him had made it special. His eyes grew wide when Theo told him what team. "That's amazing, Theo." Jamie was honestly thrilled for Theo. It didn't matter that he was going to an objectively better team then Jamie's own. Montrose was huge. The fact that he'd not only be going to the team but playing wing to one of the best chasers in the league was even bigger. He couldn't have been happier for Theo. "You're going to be great there," he added clearly happy. Just getting away from the Falcons was huge but Montrose and Shane Hollander that was a clear indication that plenty of people in the league had noticed how good Theo was. Not that Jamie was surprised by it, he knew Theo was good. Now he'd have a better opportunity to show that.

[chasertheo]

Theo just smiled when Jamie said he wanted to celebrate him, not at all sure what to do with such a nice sentiment. He didn't have long to think about it either, because Jamie's wide-eyed, happy response had Theo feeling all the same excitement and giddiness he'd felt when he got the news this morning washing over him again. There wasn't a doubt in Theo's mind that Jamie was genuinely happy for him, even now that Theo, whose quidditch career and experience had always lagged behind Jamie's, had now landed on a team that many considered the best in the league. It was the same way Theo had always been happy to see Jamie's success. "Thanks," Theo said, a wide grin still on his face. "I hope you're right," he added when Jamie said he'd be great. "I'm a little nervous," he admitted, his smile turning sheepish. "I mean, I'm mostly thrilled. But I feel like there's gonna be a lot more eyes on me now." There was no doubt there would be. Montrose fans were intense, and Theo was coming late in the season to fill a key spot on the team, right alongside the team's best player, arguably the league's best player right next to Rosanov. "It's a lot to wrap my head around," he admitted with a soft laugh.

[jamieyaxley]

Theo's words, both the 'hard to be patient,' and that cheeky promise had Jamie almost reconsidering eating. Except they'd played a hard game and he knew they'd regret skipping food later if they didn't eat now. There was also the flowers. Jamie didn't want to just abandon such a thoughtful gift on the counter, no matter how tempting Theo made it. Instead they made it into the kitchen where Jamie managed to order them food despite how into it he'd gotten watching Theo transfigure a glass into a vase, biting into his bottom lip as he'd watched. It wasn't even a particularly difficult transfiguration. But being in the presence of people who barely, if that, did low level magic watching Theo show off his magical skills so effortlessly was extremely hot and clearly hadn't gotten less so after All Stars.

He was quite happy to have Theo crowding him against a countertop after all of that. Jamie had been hanging off every word of Theo's, eagerly wanting to know what Theo was thinking. Only he wasn't going to find out it seemed. Theo's face was enough to not have him worrying about what the wait was all about. He looked very happy. He listened as Theo told him nothing at all except that he had news that Jamie couldn't share. Jamie nodded because of course he would never share something Theo told him privately with anyone else. That was if Theo even got around to telling him that was. His mouth twisted up into a huge grin when Theo finally spilled his news. Traded! Not just traded but his time with the Falcons was over. "Theo!" He pulled Theo into a big hug, happiness and relief both flowing through him. It was the best news. "I'm so happy for you," he told Theo after the hug. "I wish I hadn't surprised you so much with my news. I feel like we should order something else, something special. Really celebrate this." They couldn't celebrate it properly, that would involve going out. Which that part they could but if they were seen to be celebrating something then that would be bad. Still Jamie wanted to celebrate Theo tonight. "This is fantastic. And you're happy with the team," he asked. Jamie hadn't yet asked what team but where Theo was heading felt less important then that Theo was happy with the move. Which truthfully Jamie couldn't help thinking any other team in the league would be better than the Falcons for Theo even if it was just from a safety standpoint. But he wasn't Theo and Theo's happiness was the important thing here.

[chasertheo]

Theo had not forgotten what Jamie had said at All Stars about being into Theo doing complex spellwork. And while he wouldn't classify this transfiguration as all that complex, it did not escape Theo's notice the way Jamie was biting his lip while watching him. So maybe he'd stepped things up a bit, added some detail until the vase looked like something bought at a nice shop rather than a transfigured drinking glass. Theo didn't think he could be blamed for showing off a bit, not when Jamie was looking at him like that. It was a miracle they managed to order food. Even more surprising that Theo even managed to remember his news with Jamie looking so hot and eager to let Theo crowd him up against the counter. But Theo had remembered, and as soon as he did he couldn't wait another moment to tell Jamie.

And Jamie immediately validated why Theo had been so excited to tell him, looking at him with a huge grin that made Theo feel even lighter and happier than he already was. Theo let out a happy laugh as Jamie pulled him into a hug, hugging him back tightly, thrilled not just at the good news but that he got to share it with Jamie. He beamed at Jamie after their hug, touched that Jamie wanted to do something to celebrate. "Sharing it with you makes it special," Theo said, and if that was cheesy he didn't care because it was true. His grin impossibly widened when Jamie asked if he was happy with the team. "Its Montrose," Theo said, his excitement clear as he added, "I'm gonna be playing wing to Shane Hollander." This felt huge, not just in terms of getting him away from the Falcons, but in terms of his entire career. It was fairly late in the season and it was no secret that Hollander and Montrose were pushing extra hard for the cup this year after Rosanov won it with the Arrows last season (and Merlin, if Theo hadn't been disappointed he'd been traded away just a year before). Now Theo was going to be part of that push.

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie felt a swoop in his stomach when he realized what Theo meant by, 'but first.' He was all too happy to meet Theo in the kiss. His cheek was warm from Theo's hand and his lips from Theo's lips against them. The ease he felt when kissing Theo was still extraordinary. It felt right in a way being physical with someone else never had. When Theo deepened it that rightness gave way to a thrill shooting down his spine. A feeling sharper and deeper then he'd felt with anyone else because there was nothing there to dampen it. Except maybe the crinkle of the plastic the flowers were wrapped in. Jamie laughed alongside Theo. His smile growing fonder when Theo spoke. "I was waiting till we had the flowers and food sorted but I'm glad you didn't wait," he confessed. Even though he was known for his patience Jamie was happy Theo hadn't had his patience with this. A cut off version really had been better then putting it off till they coudl do things properly. Jamie took Theo's hand again and led him into the kitchen looking back to speak as they walked. "Hopefully we can get enough in to make the wait worth it." His words were light and teasing despite the fact that Jamie had also found the wait much harder than anticipated. Again he found himself glad he'd managed to get the house in time so they could have as much time as they could without concerns.

[chasertheo]

Theo laughed when Jamie said he'd been waiting, a pleased flush coloring his cheeks when Jamie added that he was glad Theo hadn't waited. "You make it hard to be patient," he replied. Theo was still kicking himself for waiting as long as he had to kiss Jamie again, he didn't want to miss out on any more with him. A little thrill ran down his spine as Jamie took his hand to lead him into the kitchen, an even bigger thrill following at Jamie's words about making it worth the wait. "I certainly plan to try," Theo told him. His smile was cheeky, but Theo meant that as a promise.

Once they'd managed to transfigure one of Jamie's glasses into a vase that looked rather nice, if Theo did say so himself, and ordered food, Theo moved closer to Jamie. Theo hadn't been able to keep his hands to himself the whole time they were deciding on and ordering their dinner--a hand on the small of Jamie's back, a brush against his arm, holding his hand--but now that that was taken care of, Theo crowded Jamie up against his countertop, one hand on his hip and the other on his bicep. "So what should we do while we wait for the food? 'Cause I'm thinking--wait!" Before Theo could get out that he was thinking they should get a head start on fitting in enough kissing to make the wait worth it, Theo realized he hadn't gotten around to the other thing he'd been excited to do when he saw Jamie. And once he remembered it, Theo couldn't even wait long enough to get some snogging in. His grin went from cheeky to broad and excited. "I forgot, I have to tell you something! I just found out this morning, and it's not official yet so you can't repeat this to anyone, but I wanted to tell you the second I found out and the only reason I didn't is because I knew I'd get to tell you in person tonight, but I was so surprised by the house I forgot until just now," Theo admitted with a sheepish chuckle. Telling anyone the news, let alone a player on another team, was not strictly something he should be doing. But Jamie was his boyfriend, and Theo trusted him implicitly. It hadn't even occurred to him to not tell Jamie until the news was public. "But--Jamie," he said, excitement in his voice. "I got traded! Today was my last game with the Falcons!"

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie smiled fondly when Theo said he liked cheesy. Given Theo's romantic side that wasn't a surprise. "Noted," he replied softly. He was glad that Theo felt like he was lucky. It felt weird not offering Theo more of a reply to finding out Theo loved him. But he also would have felt awful just saying it because Theo had. No doubt Theo wouldn't want that either. It was just nice he didn't have to assume that. "I know, I like that we can talk about anything." Jamie had thought they always had been able to, it was something he liked about his friendship with Theo. Only that hadn't been right. But that felt like the past tense. He really hoped it was and was going to trust Theo that it indeed was past. No doubt he'd have more to talk through with Theo for now though... "We should probably order some dinner and figure out where to put the flowers?" It would be nice to sit and have a meal together. Not exactly a date but still together. Jamie had been looking forward to that in addition to all the other aspects of having Theo overnight.

[chasertheo]

"Me too," Theo agreed with a smile when Jamie said he liked that they could talk about anything. Theo had been an idiot not to just talk to Jamie after the kiss, and he probably wouldn't ever get over how amazed and appreciative he was that Jamie had been willing to let that go. He smiled when Jamie suggested they order dinner and put down the flowers. "Agreed," Theo said. "But first..." Theo didn't think he could be blamed for leaning in and kissing Jamie, hand cupping his cheek as warmth and relief washed over him. Theo had been thinking about kissing Jamie since he left hist hotel room at All Stars, and he was still surprised by the equal measure of relief and thrill that washed over him, tension he hadn't even realized he'd been holding melting away as he leaned into Jamie further, deepening the kiss. It was only when he leaned in and felt the flowers in the way that he pulled back. letting out a breathy chuckle. "Right. Food and flowers," he said once he caught his breath. "I've just been wanting to do that since I saw you at the pitch today. Since All Stars, really," he added with a grin.

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie smiled, pleased when Theo said he made him feel special. He felt a little bashful himself when Theo talked about him knowing for sure someone loved him and how Theo was that person. That was a lot. But again it wasn't a bad a lot. Just more than he knew what to do with. He laughed lightly when Theo said he thought Jamie meant him. "I didn't mean you were cheesy, though maybe you might be," he teased lightly. "I was referring to myself, chirping myself for using a phrase liek take my breath away. Not really something I was expecting from myself." Which if he thought about it there was a lot about this whole thing with Theo that he wouldn't have expected from himself. In fact just the whole dating thing was a big one. "I'm really lucky you're so patient and a great boyfriend. I'll do my best to make sure you don't have to be too patient," he promised sincerely. He wouldn't take advantage of Theo's patience. Instead he'd hopefully be a better boyfriend along the way.

[chasertheo]

"Oh." Theo let out a soft chuckle when Jamie said he'd been calling himself cheesy for saying Theo took his breath away, feeling a little flustered at the thought that he'd apparently gotten a reaction out of Jamie that he hadn't expected from himself. Though truthfully Theo was less surprised than Jamie apparently was at his capacity for cheesy. Maybe the romantic context was new to Jamie, but he was always saying nice inspirational things that could be fairly considered cheesy. Theo liked it. "You shouldn't chirp yourself for that. I like cheesy," Theo told Jamie with a smile, giving his hand a squeeze. His smile softened at Jamie's addition, and the promise that followed. "I'm lucky too," Theo said, certain of that. "Take your time. There's no rush on anything. And if you wanna talk about anything, we can do that too," he added, because he wanted to make sure Jamie knew he wouldn't mind. It sounded like Jamie's dad had given him some pretty messed up ideas about love.

[jamieyaxley]

The small amount of tension in Jamie's shoulders relaxed when Theo said he hadn't messed anything up. That was a relief. He listened to everything Theo had to say with a slight smile. Theo was so wonderful about all of this and he was glad for that. "I just don't want to accidentally upset you because I'm clueless because you're important to me and I would hate to do that," he told Theo openly. "I hadn't realized it was scary for you to say it before you meant to. I thought you were upset you didn't get to romance me like you talked about," he added with a smile. "I can see how it would be scary. I liked hearing it though. I mean it's a lot but in a substantial way rather then in an overwhelming way. Cheesy take my breath away kind of thing." This time he flushed a little because that felt like an embarrassing thing to say but did convey things better then the useless a lot. "I may be completely out of my element but I do want to do this with you, all of this. Even when it leaves me feeling off center because I'm clueless in a way I'm not often."

[chasertheo]

Theo smiled softly when Jamie explained he'd been worried about upsetting Theo because he was important to him. There wasn't anything about that Theo could be upset about. It was the same reason he felt bad about putting Jamie on the spot. His smile turned a little sheepish and he chuckled when Jamie said he'd thought Theo was just upset by the lack of romance, which he was. But he'd been far more worried he'd said I love you before Jamie wanted to hear it. Only--he'd liked hearing it? Oh. A smile pulled at Theo’s lips when Jamie explained the way in which him saying I love you was a lot. Theo felt like Jamie was taking his breath away now. Especially when he confirmed that he wanted to do this with Theo despite being out of his element. "You may feel out of your element, but you sure are good at making me feel special," Theo told Jamie with a smile. "I'm really glad you want to do this with me. And I'm glad you like hearing that--I love you," Theo said, tripping over the words just a touch, still feeling a bit bashful. "Because you deserve to know for certain that someone loves you. And I feel very lucky to get to be that person," he said, squeezing Jamie's hand. "Even if you think I'm cheesy," he added with a grin that showed he did not mind Jamie thinking he was cheesy.

[chasertheo]

Theo could feel his heart racing as he looked at Jamie, anxiously waiting for a response. He knew Jamie wouldn't laugh at him or do anything awful. But Theo was pretty sure if he had to stand here and listen to Jamie let him down easy he was going to crumble. When Jamie did start to answer, Theo was just confused. How had he heard people talk about love if not the way Theo was talking about it? And if not as sweet? Did that mean he thought Theo was wrong about what love was? Theo was certain that he wasn't. A small smile pulled at his lips when Jamie said he was glad Theo could be himself with him, though it was strained from the anxiety and confusion swirling around inside him. If Jamie didn't feel the same way, or if he wasn't sure, Theo would rather he just say it than try to let him down easy. Or maybe he wasn't letting Theo down easy? Theo's heartbeat picked up even more when Jamie said he was special too, and that Theo made Jamie feel warm and safe and cared for. His stomach started doing some very embarrassing flippy things as Jamie took his hand and repeated that Theo was special to him. That he always had been. Oh. Surely that was something, right? Only as Theo waited expectantly, nothing followed. Oh. Was that it? Theo felt his hope deflate as he realized that was all Jamie was going to say. "Oh. Um....thanks," he said, trying to sound normal. He was normal. He was fine! Jamie thought he was special and he wasn't freaking out after Theo blurted out that he loved him like a weirdo. This was good. Hoping for more than that was silly. This was the best case scenario, really. Theo just needed to get over himself. "I, er, sorry," he added because he felt like he should. It was really starting to hit him now how embarrassing this was. "I know that was a lot. I didn't mean to put you on the spot or anything. I know we've barely been dating so I don't expect you to feel the same way. It just sort of came out. But I, er, hope I haven't made you uncomfortable."

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie could tell from Theo thanking him that he'd messed up despite not wanting to. Bugger. When Theo actually apologized to him he felt even more upset. "You didn't make me uncomfortable. I just haven't ever really thought about love so I'm a little lost here and trying, failing, to not react wrong. But I wish you wouldn't feel like you need to apologize to me when you have nothing to be sorry for. Especially after you just said you feel like you can be your full self with me. I dunno how I messed that up so quick but I don't want you to ever feel bad telling me how you feel." How to respond when your boyfriend says he loves you regardless of length of dating was not covered in his early how to interact with other people education. Clearly. "I just don't know what to say. We didn't talk about stuff like that like you and your dad. Dating like marriage was just transactional. Love wasn't really in the equation. So it's always been sort of an abstract thing, I suppose. I'm not saying you're the first person to say it to me because probably not. I'm fairly certain my dad love--well did love me, my brothers too. You know before I joined the league. Which I know it's not the same thing. I just don't know what I'm doing here. Other then I really didn't want to upset you so I was just trying to think about what you said about me and what your dad said. It's just a lot to figure out."Jamie wasn't sure if his explanation was an explanation that Theo could get because clearly they were coming from vastly different experiences. He'd told Theo he wasn't sure how to do all this stuff but he had also been serious about trying.

[chasertheo]

Theo’s heart sank when Jamie said he was trying—and failing— not to react wrong. And that apparently Theo had done the wrong thing by apologizing, even though he was the reason Jamie was worrying about having a right or wrong reaction. Theo wanted to tell Jamie that he hadn’t messed up—that this awkward situation was Theo’s fault—but Jamie kept speaking, and Theo’s brows furrowed when Jamie started to talk about his own experience with love. Or lack thereof. Jamie didn’t talk about his family a lot, but he’d opened up to Theo enough, especially that summer he’d stayed with Theo and his dad, that it wasn't a surprise to hear Jamie had grown up being told love was transactional. It was still a surprise to hear that Jamie was only probably sure his dad had ever said he loved him. Theo's heart broke for Jamie in that moment. He'd never liked Jamie's dad, hated him after he heard what he did with Jamie's signing bonus, but Theo was even more disgusted now. What sort of parent let his kids wonder if he loved them? Especially when Jamie was one of those kids. It was remarkable he'd turned out to be such a wonderful person. It made Theo love Jamie even more. “Jamie," Theo said softly, squeezing both Jamie's hand and the spot on Jamie's waist where his hand was. "It's okay. It’s a lot to figure out even if you have someone setting an example of what love should be.” Which Jamie clearly hadn’t, Theo was realizing. Not a parent and apparently no romance books or films even to fill in the gaps. “And you haven’t messed anything up,” he added, because he hated Jamie thinking that. “I do feel like I can be myself with you. I just—it’s kind of scary to accidentally blurt out that you’re in love before you meant to,” he admitted, his lips tugging into a small, sheepish smile before he continued earnestly. “And I do feel like I put you on the spot. I don’t want you to feel like there’s a right or wrong answer, or feel like you can’t say what you’re feeling because you don’t want to upset me. There isn’t a right or wrong answer. I want you to always be honest with me about how you’re feeling, even if it’s not the same as what I’m feeling. Or if it’s that you don’t know what you’re feeling,” he added gently, because that seemed to be what Jamie was saying. And while it wasn’t the response Theo had been hoping for, it hurt a lot less than a gentle let down because Jamie was certain he didn’t feel the same. “I know you said this is all new to you, but I guess I’m realizing how far outside your comfort zone this all must be. It means a lot that you want to do it with me.” It had already felt like a lot, but it felt even bigger now hearing what Jamie had grown up being told about love. “And it’s okay that you don’t have everything figured out. It’s enough that you want to do this with me. Really. We can figure the rest out. Together.”

[jamieyaxley]

Oh. That was a lot. A lot of very sweet things. Jamie hadn't thought about what Theo's answer would be but he hadn't expected any of that. At times as theo spoke he'd gotten a little lost in thinking about what he'd just said and had to pull his attention to what Theo was now saying. Because he was saying a lot of sweet things. Things Jamie had no idea about. Things Jamie wasn't sure how to respond to. Not because he didn't like them but because he didn't want to accidentally be careless about Theo's feelings. Say something wrong and have Theo thinking the wrong thing. Jamie would be very upset if he did something like that. Especially with Theo. "I've never heard anyone talk about love like that before," he said. That didn't mean Theo's definition was all that different from other people's. Jamie knew blokes who seemed like they were better husbands and fathers then his own. He'd just never asked any of them aobut love. "It's a lot sweeter than how I would have described it. Suits you." Because Theo was really sweet. "I'm glad you feel like you can be your full self with me. I'd never want you to be anything else." That had stood out to Jamie because it made him really happy to hear it. "I think you're special too. You definitely made me feel warm, safe, and cared for." Jamie reached out his free hand and grabbed one of Theo's and gave it a little squeeze. "You're special to me, you always have been." There was probably more Jamie should say but he was trying to figure out if the two definitions of love, the one Jamie had always known and this new one from Theo could co-exist together or even exist in someone who hadn't had that example growing up. While also figuring out his own emotions which admittedly wasn't something Jamie really did. He was really good at compartmentalizing things. Admittedly not always normally, it was his baseline and where he dragged himself back to on the rare occasion he swayed too far. He also wasn't sure how that would work with Theo's definition of love actually either.

[chasertheo]

Theo could feel his heart racing as he looked at Jamie, anxiously waiting for a response. He knew Jamie wouldn't laugh at him or do anything awful. But Theo was pretty sure if he had to stand here and listen to Jamie let him down easy he was going to crumble. When Jamie did start to answer, Theo was just confused. How had he heard people talk about love if not the way Theo was talking about it? And if not as sweet? Did that mean he thought Theo was wrong about what love was? Theo was certain that he wasn't. A small smile pulled at his lips when Jamie said he was glad Theo could be himself with him, though it was strained from the anxiety and confusion swirling around inside him. If Jamie didn't feel the same way, or if he wasn't sure, Theo would rather he just say it than try to let him down easy. Or maybe he wasn't letting Theo down easy? Theo's heartbeat picked up even more when Jamie said he was special too, and that Theo made Jamie feel warm and safe and cared for. His stomach started doing some very embarrassing flippy things as Jamie took his hand and repeated that Theo was special to him. That he always had been. Oh. Surely that was something, right? Only as Theo waited expectantly, nothing followed. Oh. Was that it? Theo felt his hope deflate as he realized that was all Jamie was going to say. "Oh. Um....thanks," he said, trying to sound normal. He was normal. He was fine! Jamie thought he was special and he wasn't freaking out after Theo blurted out that he loved him like a weirdo. This was good. Hoping for more than that was silly. This was the best case scenario, really. Theo just needed to get over himself. "I, er, sorry," he added because he felt like he should. It was really starting to hit him now how embarrassing this was. "I know that was a lot. I didn't mean to put you on the spot or anything. I know we've barely been dating so I don't expect you to feel the same way. It just sort of came out. But I, er, hope I haven't made you uncomfortable."

[chasertheo]

Theo's smirk softened when Jamie looked clearly flustered. Hopefully nothing he'd said had made Jamie feel like he had any reason to be flustered. If anything, Theo was quite pleased that Jamie was so clearly eager. Because Merlin knew Theo was eager. "I like your priorities," Theo told him with a grin. There was nothing amusing about the fact that Jamie had prioritized buying a house so Theo could stay the night with him, though. That was just remarkably sweet and caring in a way that made Theo feel all warm and fluttery. Especially when Jamie said Theo was pretty special. Oh. Maybe Theo shouldn't be surprised by that. They were boyfriends now. But Jamie had bought a house for them, like he was so certain of Theo, so quickly, even after two years apart. And now he was offering to get anything else Theo needed to have here for him, which felt like another big step. Except they were long-distance, so it made sense. But still. And he'd gotten food he remembered Theo liked, which probably shouldn't make him feel just as warm and gooey as everything else. But it did. It made Theo think back to what he'd told Jamie that night at All Stars, that romance could be big and little gestures. And Jamie had given Theo a huge gesture, but also a perfect small one. Theo's heart felt so full he was surprised it didn't burst. Only it sort of did, because the next thing he knew he was breathing out, "I love you," before he could stop himself, and leaning in for the kiss he'd been craving since he saw Jamie on the pitch--really since the last time he'd kissed Jamie in his hotel room at All Stars--then stopping short as his words caught up to his brain. Theo's eyes widened as he froze a couple inches from Jamie. "Wait. I didn't mean--" He leaned back, only enough so he could look at Jamie better. "I mean, I did mean it," he tacked on, fumbling, worried that maybe Jamie didn't want him to mean it but also not wanting him to think he didn't mean it now that it was out there. You couldn't really take back an 'I love you.' Which was what Theo had just said. Out loud. "I just--I know we only just started dating so that's probably a lot, and I would have preferred to wait and say it, like, over a romantic dinner where I give you flowers or something." At least he'd just given Jamie flowers. But fuck, what if that was all too much? But Jamie had just bought a house for them. So maybe Theo being in love was fine. He was very sorely tempted to flee, but he'd promised Jamie he was done with that. So instead he just stood there with a hand still on Jamie's waist and waited.

[jamieyaxley]

Jamie still felt flustered but now it was because Theo was saying he liked Jamie's priorities. Priorities being a comfortable bedroom they could get off in. Jamie was like 95% sure that's what Theo meant by that anyway. But since this wasn't just about getting off with Theo he hoped what he'd gotten that wasn't directly related to that was good. At least okay for now. Jamie would be happy to stock snacks, drinks, and toiletries that Theo preferred. He wanted Theo to fill comfortable here even though it was likely going to be just short times. It was still important to him. Jamie almost didn't register what Theo said because Theo had a hand on his waist and was leaning in to do something Jamie had hoped for since he'd been at the door. Had Theo followed through with the kiss he might have wondered if he'd imagined it. But Theo's wide-eyed frozen stare told him he hadn't. Which that was-- Not meant? What? Jamie couldn't help looking at him with confusion. Theo's clarification that he had meant it was something. He had no idea what a romantic Theo was. Flowers and now romantic dinners with flowers and apparently I love you. Jamie's eyes went to the flowers in his hand when Theo said he'd have preferred doing this over a romantic dinner. He wasn't sure what to say or how he felt about it. He wasn't upset, because who would be upset about something like that? It was incredibly sweet really. Also seemed impulsive. Theo was surprisingly impulsive when it came to these kinds of things. The asking him to be his boyfriend, the making out leading to getting off, the kiss that started all of this a few years ago, and now I love you. Jamie had always thought matters of dating and even love where things to think about and plan. Even if he hadn't wanted to do any of that for strategic reasons like his dad had talked about, planning still seemed to make sense. Except he had just bought a house because he wanted to give Theo and him a place to have privacy together which was very impulsive too. Not to mention agreeing to dating and making out and the whole getting off. Right, clearly Theo wasn't the only impulsive one. Jamie flushed a little with the realization of how impulsive he was being. "How can you be certain? I mean how do you know," he asked. Because impulsive or not, romantic or not, Theo had to have some idea of what made him say he loved Jamie. He couldn't believe Theo was the sort to just say that, especially not with how he reacted to realizing he'd said it.

[chasertheo]

"Uh....." How do you know was not one of the many possible reactions that had been cycling through Theo's frantic mind as he braced himself for Jamie's reaction. It didn't exactly put him at ease either. On the one hand, at least Jamie didn't seem weirded out or upset by what Theo said. Or maybe he did think it was weird and that was why he was asking, trying to figure out what the hell had Theo thinking he was in love with him. Only Theo was very certain, despite how fast it seemed, that he was in love with Jamie. Theo was pretty certain he'd been in love with Jamie since the Arrows and hadn't stopped during their two years apart, so it didn't feel all that fast at all from his own perspective. So whatever Jamie's reason was for asking how Jamie knew, Theo felt like he owed it to him to answer as best he could. He was already out on a limb here. Hopefully if he fell off it the landing wouldn’t hurt too badly.

"Well I, er....My dad always said he knew he was in love with my mum because she felt like home. And...that's how you make me feel," he confessed, feeling bashful and nervous that maybe this was too much. But Jamie had asked and Theo didn't know how else to answer other than honestly. "You're my best friend, which is something else my dad always said about my mom. You make me feel warm and happy and safe, and cared for. I feel like I can be my full self with you and you'll never judge me. And you're my favorite person in the world, and I just--I want to be around you all the time, and I think about you all the time, and you're the first person I want to tell when something good or bad happens. Talking to you, even if its just over text, is always the best part of my day. And that's all been true since the Arrows, really. I think its part of why I was so scared of finding out that the kiss meant nothing to you, because you mean so much to me. And I hate how stupid I was about it all, but I'm so glad you're in my life again, and you're just as wonderful as always, and I want to make you feel just as warm and safe and happy and cared for with me as I do with you. I just--I've never felt like this about anybody else. You're special. You've always been special. Seeing you on the pitch today, it's like my whole body was buzzing just from getting to see you, even though it was also torture not being able to be close to you. And just seeing you open the door to this house, it's like my whole body was relieved and giddy to see you all at once, like I've just been waiting to be close to you again because there's nowhere else I'd rather be. Because...you feel like home. And I just....I love you," he said, after gathering his courage. Which was probably stupid, because he'd already said it. But this time was on purpose, and still with absolutely no idea how Jamie was going to react.