[laughtrackfm]

📻: dependent blog in association with colossal, oh. (navigated by ry)

⋆.˚🃏⋆✮⋆˙ intro ⋆.˚🃏⋆✮⋆˙wanted connections ⋆.˚🃏⋆✮⋆˙playlist

[jforjanus]

CJ stood frozen behind him and tried his best not to allow the quiver in his forearms to unfurl to the rest of his frame, which came and went whenever Dario approached too close in his examination. As someone who handed his keys to the closest mechanic shop at the first sign of trouble, CJ could only watch in confusion as his neighbor rummaged through the ashen compartments, hands undoubtedly speckled with soot and warm to the touch from the hot engine. His eyes were glued to the back of Dario's neck and he nodded along to the story despite knowing that Dario wouldn't be able to witness his rapt attention unless he were to turn his head-

-and he turned and CJ, for some reason overcome with gratitude he never felt before, smiled brightly. Genuinely, for once. Here stood Dario, a stranger, really, hands deep into his ailing car without so much as a complaint, sputtering nonsense comparisons between vehicles and people. Except, his words weren't nonsensical at all and CJ felt himself enter a contemplative state with Dario's guidance.

" Slow down and pay attention to the changes, you say?"

CJ craned his head, deep in thought, and only returned to reality when Dario's hair tickled his arm when he stepped away from the open hood. What about the changes between them, then? He might be able to slow down, to recount the days leading up to the basement party and the days that followed. He might force a patience that he usually lacked just to understand their newfound and confusing dynamic, but would he actually discover something? CJ feared that he'll come away empty and still just as confused as when he began.

CJ righted his head and lowered the hood, pushing it down until he heard a loud click. He shook his head, idle hands mechanically sliding into the empty front pockets of his pants.

" Nothing in the trunk. Pretty sure I had a bottle at some point but you know how I hate messes- I think I tossed it or something."

CJ shrugged his shoulders, dropped them in defeat, and sighed dramatically. He looked around as if an actual angel might lower from a triangle of diffused bright light and save his poor stranded car. He waited a second, just in case.

" Oh well, let's walk there. Maybe I'll bum antifreeze from Merritt's garage and come back for the car. Here-" CJ extended a hand out to Dario, keys dangling from his forefinger, knocking against a silver whistle keychain attached to the ring. "- get your cat ears back. You looked cute."

[laughtrackfm]

“Slow down and pay attention to the changes," Dario repeated, giving a little nod. “Also, I am going to be getting you an emergency car kit, CJ. I’ll make sure it’s all organized and won’t clunk around in your trunk. I'll even put the different bottles in bags, labeled and all, so there is no chance of any spilling." Dario takes a step closer to the other, looking at him with a stern look, “I don’t want any push back either, okay? What if you break down and there isn’t anyone around? I don’t…really like the thought of you being stranded.”

He rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the heat creep on his cheeks at the compliment. Never had he been more thankful for the night sky, hoping it would cover any blushing. “You know you don’t have to keep being nice to me, right? Just because…” He trailed off, glancing away for a beat before forcing his gaze back.

The memory of that kiss still lingered like static in the air between them—unspoken, unresolved, and impossible to ignore no matter how casual it was supposed to be. “I know I look ridiculous right now.” He gestured vaguely at himself. “The theme wasn’t evil kittens and angels, man. But in my defense,” and here he went on another mini ramble, “I was promised devil horns for a favor. Turns out my friend thought they had devil horns, buut they were stoned and it turned out to be…well, you saw.”

He looked over to CJ's car, "one sec,” he muttered, moving to open the car door again. Dario sighed as he reluctantly grabbed the ears, locking the car back up, then turned back to CJ, ears dangling from his fingers. “I am not walking with them on,” he declared firmly, plopping the headband around his neck like a ridiculous collar for now. “Onward?” As they started walking toward the Stone’s place, a gentle breeze stirred the air, relaxing him a bit more. After a minute he looks over in CJ's direction, catching sight of the whole angel getup, and a grin slowly pulled at his mouth. “Fiine, CJ. I guess if you’re walking full on angel wings and halo…then I’ll commit to the demon kitty bit.”

With a small pout he raised the ears to his head and plopped them on, adjusting them with a quick tug before giving CJ a small, playful smirk. "Happy now?" They fall into step again and Dario let the quiet settle between them for a moment. He lets his gaze drift ahead, holding the playful smirk softening into something more genuine. "You know, back there," his voice is a little softer, "when I was checking out your car, after I turned around...you smiled. It was nice. You, um, have a really nice smile. Sorry if that's a weird thing to say." Despite the apology, he actually didn’t feel weird admitting that to CJ. He wanted to say more, actually strike up a conversation, but this comfortable silence had always sort of just been them. And because he didn’t know what else to do, or say, Dario let that familiar silence fill the space between them again.

[washedfms]

for whatever reason, jamir had been counting down the days until that night but also nervous. he was hyper aware of the fact that he would be the guest in someone else's home at that point. which meant he had to make sure that he didn't show up empty handed. he wanted to try something different, so he spent the morning preparing a chocolate truffle tart. it wasn't the same recipe as his brownies, so it was definitely a challenge. at the same time it was something new and he assumed that dario did like chocolate since his good commentary on the brownies that he made. he felt like that was good enough.

then came his outfit. he didn't want it to seem like he was trying too hard, but he also wanted to put in some effort. he threw on a pair of dark blue jeans and then some brown loafers. on top, he wore an oversized beige sweater with a tank top underneath in case he needed to take it off. it's not like the weather really mattered.

he probably brushed his teeth twice before finally pulling himself out of his own apartment and over to dario's. luckily his hair wasn't long, otherwise he would have been late getting ready. as he glanced down at his wrist before knocking on the door, he waited two whole minutes. that way he would be right on time. not too late, but also not too early. he didn't want to seem like he was desperate or putting the other man out. he rolled his shoulders back several times to try and relax his own nerves. he could do this. it was just a meeting with his business partner, right? brainstorming new ideas and hanging out...

when he saw dario, jamir couldn't help the wide smile that formed on his face. "there was a little jam in the elevator, but nothing i couldn't handle." they were stuck to these apartments it seemed. then, slim shady came out and the man beamed up even more. "well isn't he the cutest little guy ever!" jamir moved the cake to his left hand and scratched the back of the dog's ear with his right. "i wish you would have told me, i could have brought him something!" he nodded slightly. "i can eat. i also brought us some dessert, hope you like it." he raised his left hand a little bit further up. "you thought of everything, didn't you? is there anything that i can help with before we settle in?"

[laughtrackfm]

Dario shook his head at the elevator jam comment, a quiet laugh slipping out as he leaned a little more into the doorframe, arms folding loosely across his chest. “I’m glad you were able to get out of that jam,” he said, the corner of his mouth quirking up, “but seriously, they need to do something about that elevator. I feel like it gets stuck at least twice a week.” His brows lifted slightly in disbelief before softening again. “I swear one of these days it’s just going to give up entirely and trap someone in there for good.” There was a beat, then a small, amused exhale. “But hey, you made it out in one piece, tart and all, so I’ll take that as a win.” His gaze lingered for a second, warm and quietly relieved, before he pushed himself upright again to let Jamir entre fully into his apartment.

“You’re right, I should’ve told you. I’m a horrible dog dad,” he went on, as he reached to give Slim a quick scratch under the chin. “I guess you’ll just have to come with me on a mini shopping spree and help me pick out a few things. Oh, darn.” His smile softened as he watched Slim happily lean into Jamir’s hand, tail wagging like he’d already decided Jamir was one of his favorite people. Dario couldn’t blame the pup one bit, even he ends up liking Jamir more. “And, you know,” Dario added, glancing back up, his tone easing into something a little more sincere, “I did try to make sure everything was covered tonight. Because I didn’t want you worrying about any little thing.” Jamir was always the one looking out for everyone else, including him, and Dario felt that familiar, quiet pull to return it somehow. If there was any way to make the night easier, lighter, even just a little less on Jamir’s shoulders, he was going to take it without hesitation.

That was just it, wasn’t it? Dario always looked out for Jamir in silence, checking in to make sure he was okay, looking for any way he could help make his friend’s life easier. He did it with all his friend, of course, but there was something else when it came to Jamir. He didn’t know what to call it other than being protective over his friend and worried he’ll burn himself out.“But,” he continued, a brighter smile breaking through again as he looked at him, “I can’t say I thought of dessert. You’re always so thoughtful, Jamir. Thank you.” He stepped closer, reaching out to carefully take the chocolate truffle tart, his fingers brushing lightly against the container as he looked it over with genuine appreciation. “It looks incredible,” he said, almost to himself, like he was already imagining how it’d taste. He had no doubt it would be short of heavenly, Jamir’s baking always was. When he glanced back up, there was something a little more open in his expression. “I’m really excited to try it.”

He turned then, motioning for Jamir to follow as he led him into the kitchen, setting the tart down gently on the counter. “Are you thirsty? I’ve got water, mango juice,” he paused, glancing over his shoulder with a crooked grin, “I was feeling a little risky that day”, then turned back, pulling plates from the cabinet, “but I’ve also got wine, if you’re feeling adventurous.” He didn’t say why he’d picked up the wine, brushing the thought aside almost as quickly as it surfaced. This wasn’t anything more than a night between friends, business partners, really, just food, conversation, maybe a few ideas tossed around. That’s all it was. He moved around the kitchen with an easy rhythm, pulling the pizza out of the oven as the warmth hit his face, the smell filling the space. It actually smelled great, which made him smile even more. He set it down, slicing into it with practiced care before plating a couple slices neatly, making sure they looked halfway decent before carrying them over. When he turned back to Jamir, he placed a plate in front of him with a small, reassuring smile. “You just relax, okay? I’m hosting you, right? I got you.” He lingered for a second, like he wanted to make sure Jamir actually would, before grabbing his own plate and settling nearby. “Now,” he added, tone light but genuinely curious, “let’s see, what do you want to tackle today? I want to at least make sure we can knock out what our core mission is and a couple of items for our menus.”

[rumrhasit]

frankie isn't sure how she would have reacted to the scaring even without the fact that she's crying, but she doesn't have time to worry about it. dario showing concern is disarming, making her forget the way this vulnerability burns her skin, makes her itch to run away. she would never consider dario an enemy, but his proximity to easy and devon, two people she hurt more than anyone, she's always known how unlikely it is that he trusts her on any level. she can't blame him, but it makes crying in front of him all the more stressful. if she were to think through it clearly, she would know dario isn't built like frankie. he isn't meant to spill other people's secrets.

the more he talks, the nicer he is, the more frankie feels her head spin. she closes her eyes and steels against a new feeling, one that tells her she's going to be sick. but instead it's just word vomit that comes up, the words spilling out of her before she can stop them. "i think i'm in love with milo," is how the whole terrible thing starts, and the words are such a relief to say out loud that she doesn't immediately stop. "not in love love, i mean, obviously i love him because he's one of my oldest friends. but those feelings feel like more than friends feelings, right? and i've never done anything about it! he's been with mila, and i love mila—not love love her! as a friend love her, but not the way i friend love milo. but also, like, i've never been in love. i've never even dated anyone."

frankie exhales, blinking for the first time. "oh god," she whispers. "you can't tell anyone."

[laughtrackfm]

“I think I’m in love with Milo.” The confession hits Dario like a quiet punch to the chest. Not because he feels the same way about Milo—though yeah, the guy is cute as hell—but because he knows exactly how terrifying it is to carry feelings that big with nowhere safe to put them. “Hey,” his voice comes out soft, almost careful, in a way it rarely does. He shifts a little closer, trying to make himself smaller so he doesn’t overwhelm her. “Frankie…I got you. I won’t tell anyone, okay? I promise. I may be loud, I may be a walking joke to half the people who know me, especially my dad…but I’m not the kind of person who spills someone else’s secrets. That will never be me.” He wasn’t trying to throw shots, just trying to reassure her that she was safe. He was, could be, a safe person for her. “I promise you’re safe with me.”

He rubs the back of his neck, eyes gentle as he searches for the right words. “I’ve never really been in love either. Not the real kind. I’ve had girlfriends before, sure, but it was never… that. But I know what it feels like when your heart is trying to claw its way out. And it feels like you’re standing in a crowded room screaming and no one even looks up. I know how heavy that shit feels. How it makes everything spin and your skin itch like you want to run. And you want to say something, right, because, fuck, any clarity has to feel better than shoving it further down. But you don’t, you can’t. Because…despite wanting clarity the fear of what will happen with the truth is far greater. I’m sorry it’s hitting you this hard right now. I wish I had better answers for you…or magic words that would make it easier. But you don’t have to figure it all out today, tomorrow, or even this year. And if you ever want to talk about it more, even if it’s just to vent, I’m here. And also, like, for what it’s worth…I think just getting it off your chest this way is already a big step in the right direction.”

He reached out to gently wipe away another stray tear, keeping his warm smile. “You just tell me what you need from me and you got it. We can go back to my place if you want something more private. It’s not that far from here. Though…Slim Shady might attack you with kisses. My dog, kinda, it’s temporary,” or so he says, “not, like…the real Slim Shady. He’s not actually my place.”

[scrtissues]

victor wanders a few steps ahead, leaning down slightly to read the little placards in front of the crystals. he keeps his hands to himself. it’s a habit he hasn’t been able to kick when entering velvet moon despite his incessant apologies for pocketing a handful of the more expensive items. even with the rapport he’s managed to build with juno over the years, it’s hard to shake the feeling he shouldn’t be here. “right. that’s–” he clears his throat while straightening his posture, “nice. you don’t have to give me credit.” he glances over at dario briefly to offer a tight, somewhat smile, then looks back to the display. “i’ll hold a camera. it’s fine.” “juno’s been asking to read my cards,” he says, continuing to look over the crystals like one of them would be practical enough to keep, but he supposes none of what’s found here could be considered so. “figured i’d throw her a bone.” it’s a pipe dream, he thinks, that it would stop her wanting to know more about him. if anything, it’s more probable one reading would prompt another. still, he’s not sure he cares. when dario holds out the amethyst, victor squints to examine the polished stone. “mental clarity’s a lot to ask from a rock,” he jokes, letting out a huff of laughter. he tilts his head, vaguely gesturing toward another tray full of light green crystals. “aventurine,” he reads from the labeling on the display. “attracts luck.”

[laughtrackfm]

“You’re a part of Easy’s journey too, Vic,” Dario says warmly, his voice carrying that genuine affection he rarely holds back when it comes to his friends. He meets Victor’s tight smile with one too, his smile was warm and big enough that crinkles form at the corner of his eyes. “From holding the camera without a complaint, to standing here giving me ideas for crystals…it’s the little things, man. They all add up more than you think. You deserve some credit for that. If you won’t give it to yourself, then I’ll just have to do it for you. I mean it. And you know, Easy would be so happy to know he’s got even more people backing up his project.” Without even thinking about it, “I’m really proud of him. He’s finally doing it. He’s going to make it out of this place and…I can’t wait to see how it all turns out.”

He chuckles lightly at Victor’s joke about the amethyst and glances down at the polished stone still resting in his palm before nodding toward the tray of aventurine. “Luck, huh? I’ll take it. I’ll grab anything that might tilt things in Easy’s favor. I’ll even grab one for Jamir so it hopefully brings us something good with our shop idea we have. Did I tell you about it yet, Vic?” He carefully sets the amethyst back in its tray and picks up a small piece of the light green aventurine, turning it over between his fingers. “How do you think they get the magic in the crystals?”

Dario’s expression turns a little more thoughtful as he looks back at Victor, his voice staying gentle. “And hey, if Juno wants to read your cards, you should let her. She’s good at that stuff, and who knows? Might be nice to have someone else tell you what the universe has planned instead of trying to figure it all out alone. Then again, I don’t want the universe to tell me. So, I guess I can’t talk too much.” He picks up another crystal, this one polished and black. “An Oynx. Supposedly it’s for strength. Hm.” He holds on to the Onyx stone. “So, Vic, how’s everything been since the basement party? Did those snacks end up getting you through?”

[hayesonthecourt]

"Maybe," she agrees, at least half of the way. Milo is a nice guy 'like that', but Devon also knows that Milo is the sort to find importance in things that are important to others. If Dario is excited to show him a magic trick, she'd put money on Milo being just as excited.

She throws Dario a skeptical glance, and it clicks then that a town as small as Colossal with people who are so intertwined still provides opportunity to have new experiences every day. I.e. her step brother maintaining a conversation with Milo Stone, who Devon talks to nearly on the daily about things ranging from nonsense to deeper topics.

Her skepticism shifts into something subtly bashful, if not self-assured, as her smile turns more into a slanted grin. Dev's heard a lot of compliments all her life, but very few of them are taken to heart. That is all determined by who it comes from, and just as expected, Dario's words sit steady in her heart. Just as his suggestion she let loose, and his offer to make sure she gets home safe do.

"I'll think about it," she relents, nudging her elbow into his side. "Sounds like there were drunken mistakes a-plenty at the basement party, and I'm not feeling left out enough to do that, but does 'maybe' count for now?"

His insistence on a drunken mistakes makes a lot more sense as he reveals some details, and Devon hangs onto the mention of a mutual friend being involved. Still, she respects his decision to remain vague with no poking and prying. It's just a note left there in the back of her head for later.

"Okay. At least it was a pretty good kiss. But is it that big of a deal if it was just a kiss?" It's definitely not meant to be dismissive as it is reassuring, but there isn't time for that answer just yet when Dario points out a sound that carries against brick walls. Dev slows in her steps and turns to face into the mouth of the alley. "Uh, yeah. But do you think it's rats or something?"

[laughtrackfm]

“Okay. I’ll take it,” Dario says with a grin, bumping her shoulder lightly. “Maybe counts. For now.” He lets the playful moment hang for half a second before tilting his head, eyes narrowing in mock suspicion. “Wait…what other drunken mistakes happened? You holding out on me, Dev? Hand over the juicy gossip right now.” He dramatically clutches his chest, because of course he did, he wouldn’t be Dario if he wasn’t just a bit dramatic. “Wow. Just. Wow. The betrayal is real. My own sister keeping secrets from me? I’m wounded.”

He laughs, clearly joking, but then his expression softens just a touch as he glances at her again. “But for real…yeah, it was a pretty good kiss. I don’t know if it’s a big deal or not. That’s kind of what’s messing with my head. I think it was just…a random fleeting moment. And even though I can’t really name drop…I can tell you who it wasn’t with. It wasn’t with Mila, Frankie, Merritt, or Fallon. It wasn’t Easy, Jamir, Milo,” he pouted a bit at that, all jokes, “Vic, or Noa. That’s the only hints you get. Do with the remaining names as you will. But, eh, regardless, it was just a kiss. I bet they already forgot all about it.” He shrugs, trying to keep it casual even though the entire thing still chews at him anyway.

Thankfully for Dario whatever was in the alley was a great distraction from where their conversation was going anyway. He wanted to tell Dev, really he did, and maybe he would’ve had the kiss not been with CJ. Of all people, of course it had to be his sister’s roommate. “Even rats deserve help, right?” He grinned, stepping more into the alley. The noise was like shuffling mixed with little whimpers and Dario had a feeling it wasn’t rats at all. In fact, it sounds a lot like…. “A puppy.” Dario says, softly, immediately getting down on his knees to peek under the dumpster.

“Hey little guy…” he tried to carefully reach for the pup but ends up making the scared puppy just scoot back a bit more, “..oh he’s absolutely terrified, Dev. Poor little thing.” He looks over to her, “You wanna give it a try? Maybe he’ll be more comfortable with you.” He looks around for a sign of someone who might be looking for a lost pup. “Do you think he belongs to anyone?”

[laughtrackfm]

for: harvey ( @boltedshut ) location: walking around these colossal streets like the hooligans they are

“So,” Dario continues, “I was standing there, just minding my business, and this girl she comes up to me, right? She’s like…My friend Lena thinks you’re a total cutie. I was like…Okay. And then she’s all..What? Okay? What does that mean? And in my head I am all like…What the heck do you mean what does that mean? Because, right? Liiike? So I said to her, I said, Okay just means okay. And she proceeds to call me a total jerk! Then she smacked my arm and went to tell her friend I called her ugly! I never even…and THEEEEEN! Her friend comes over and she’s all..I’m going to tell my brother you called me ugly and were rude to me. He’s going to beat your ass. And, like, first off, I love it when someone underestimates me in a fight. I mean as long as the guy isn’t like Hulk Hogan I think I have a pretty fair chance.”

It’s probably been a whole three minutes since Dario had stopped talking, not that he had noticed, and he didn’t even know if Harvey was fully listening. He just assumed so, not that he’d be mad if he wasn’t. What he also wasn’t revealing was that when he was approached by the girl’s friend Dario was too preoccupied checking out the cute barista behind the stand. He was so thrown off that he didn’t even get a chance to get the guys name or order his coffee that day. “So, anyway, in the end…I got smacked once on the arm, shoved by the second girl, called a jerk, and I am pretty sure I am going to be in some random fight one of these days. If some random guy just punches me in the face today, well, at least you know why.” He shook his head and gave a small sigh. “I don’t know, man. What do you think? Do you think I did something wrong?”

[laughtrackfm]

for: jamir ( @washedfms ) location: dario’s place

“Alright,” he paused, looking down at Slim Shady ( he has now had the pup for at least two weeks), “you are going to have to be on your be-…are you listening to me?” Slim Shady was not listening to Dario, in fact, he was more focused on trying to nip at Dario’s heel for not picking him up to see what was on the kitchen counter. “You’re nothing but trouble, little dude. Come on,” he chuckled, bending down to scoop the little guy in his arms, “I guess it’s not really polite to talk down to you, huh?” Whimpers and little wiggles are Slim’s response. “Yeah, yeah. I’m getting things going, okay? Look, I need you to be in your best behavior. We have company over today and we need to focus on getting stuff on paper for our future.”

He looked at the pup who could give two tail wags about whatever Dario was yapping about because all he wanted was the food that his human was preparing for him. And Dario just chuckled while shaking his head, giving the pup a little kiss on his head, lowering Slim Shady and food bowl to the ground.

Like father, like pup. Always hungry, always with theatrics.

Now that Slim was taken care of, Dario looked around to see if he was missing anything for his unofficial date night with Jamir. Snacks, drinks, television on low volume (for now), fort set up, a homemade pizza in the oven. His place was more tidy than usual, everything seemed more organized, like he had put a little more extra effort into making the place look nice. It was because he had, though he wasn’t to sure why he suddenly felt like his place needed to be more tidy for Jamir. It’s not like he has ever cared what Jamir thought about his place whenever he came over, in fact, he has definitely had it turned inside out on some of his visits. He told himself it was probably just because they were future business partners now, absolutely not because the word date hung in the back of his mind, and he just needed to be more grounded in everything if Jamir was going to take him seriously. That’s all. Nothing more, nothing less.

“Glad you could make it. I hope your travels weren’t very long and no traffic got in your way on the way here,” Dario teased, his crooked grin plastered on his face, as he greeted his friend on the other side. “Come on in, come on in. I need to give you a he-…” but before he could give a warning Slim Shady comes running up to greet Jamir by barking up at him with excitement, “….well, dog’s out of the bag or whatever. This is Slim Shady, Slim this is Jamir.” He bends down to scoop the pup into his arms, looking at Jamir. “Are you hungry? I got some pizza in the oven. Also! I premade the fort and there are notebooks with writing supplies in it and snacks. Ya know, the basic needs for our brainstorming session.”

[laughtrackfm]

introducing slim shady! the little guy was discovered in an alley way while dario was on a walk with his sister. he keeps telling himself “this is just temporary” but the new dog bowl, bed, and the ever growing dog toys tells another story. his name was a result of devon and dario spitballing random names until they landed on slim shady. it’s just temporary anyway, right?

[laughtrackfm]

“Oh, yes, totally.” He cleared his throat, getting more serious. “I mean it, Jamir. I do want to make this happen. The only reason we aren’t getting to it today is because I think I would have a hard time concentrating after all the food. But…I am very, very serious." It meant a lot to Dario that Jamir was actually taking this entire idea seriously, even if at first he was half joking when he made the comment, and he was going to do everything in his power to prove to his friend that he wanted this. How could he not? He finally seemed to have some path to something that was going to make him a someone in this world, something that would not only give to Colossal but, it was something he could show his father too. He was so excited he honestly couldn't wait to tell him about the idea, so he made a little note to visit him soon.

"Someone like you?" Dario didn't even register anything else after that comment was made, brows knitting in confusion. "You make it sound like you're a burden or something. You know that's not the case, right? That could never be the case with you, Jamir." He'd remind him of that every chance he got. "Let's give these forts a couple of runs before we invite Vee. Only so that when we do invite him, we would've mastered the art of the fort making. We can do so much. I want to make sure we make him go 'holy shit!' when he gets in here. I'm thinking string lights and stuff...yeah." He chuckles, "And, no, I highly doubt anyone is going to be interrogating you about me anytime soon. But just in case....ya know." His gaze follows Jamir's up to the ceiling as he talks about Sleepaway Camp and he chuckles at the Jason comment. "I mean...I guess there really is no way for him to know. Just don't be slutty at Camp Crystal Lake, I guess? But now, where is the fun in that?" He joked, chuckling a bit.

He hadn't thought Jamir was serious about a date, in fact, he had honestly not given it too much thought when he said the word. But at Jamir's next comment, Dario's curiosity starts to creep up. He was about to ask him something, but then he's distracted at the mention of the list. "Deal. I’ll try to keep it short. But you’re right, we do have to get to know each other more. We’ll start with snacks. Also,” he smiles, softly, “thank you, Jamir. You and Vee have always been really good to me. I can’t for the day we all become roommates.” It still blew his mind that they lived floors apart from each other but even that felt too far sometimes. "Embrace the chaos. Not many people tell me that, you know? But...okay. I think I can do that."

Dario laughs, "I'm always keeping track of the cute-o-meter. I told you it was game on, didn't I?" He was about to continue teasing but gets a bit distracted when Jamir starts to shimmy out of his pants, and because none of this strikes Dario as too much, he does the same. It wasn’t until he was pantsless too that he was all of a sudden hyperaware of his body. Thank god for blankets, he thought to himself as he casually reached to lazily lay one over the two of them. The movie starts. For a second he is distracted by it, watching as the story begins to take place, entirely comfortable against Jamir. One minute turns to two, two to fifteen, and Dario’s eyelids seem to grow heavier by the second. And before the movie is even half-way in….he was very, very drowsy. He didn’t really think about the fact that a movie after so much food was probably a bad idea because now he was incredibly sleepy. “You know,” he says, voice barely above a whisper, his mind floating between conciseness and slumberland, “…I feel really safe with you….” and that’s really all he said before he could be heard softly dozed off.

[washedfms]

the sudden change in tone wasn't lost on jamir. all he could do was look over at dario and give him a small nod of acknowledgment. he didn't want to make it seem like he didn't have faith in him, in all of this. it was the exact opposite. he knew that they were going to be able to make something magical together. "don't worry many, i get it. all of that garlic bread is already making me sleepy. when our stomachs are a little less full, we're going to get cracking." they probably both had people that would support them and go to the shop once they opened it too. even if it took years because of permits or whatever, he was willing to put in the work. he wanted dario to know that he was completely serious about all of this.

he awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck with his right hand, chewing down on his cheek momentarily. he didn't want this to become a pity party, but sometimes he did wonder if people liked having him around or if he was annoying. "thanks for that, d, really. i know i can be too much sometimes." the idea seemed good enough for him. thankfully, vee had his own business to take care of so they'd probably all have to settle on a date in the future anyway. "we're going to impress him. especially since i always keep this living room looking like a waiting room in a hospital." he was only half joking. it was always just as clean, but he did try to make it more comfortable. "we'll see what happens in the future, i guess." he chuckled softly, nodding at both the plan but also the comment. "i guess just don't be slutty while he's watching."

if they were going to be business partners and roommates soon, then they were going to have a lot of time to get to know each other. jamir knew that he would still have to run the idea by harvey, but he couldn't picture anything that would prevent the three of them from living together. obviously, the place that they would get would be bigger. at least three-bedrooms. "we'll make a whole menu of our favorites and vee's. that way, we know what to always keep in stock when we're all living together." he smiled softly, but shook his head slowly. "that's nothing you have to thank me on. you know that we're going to always be here for you, right?" then a laugh escaped his lips. "we're going to need that chaotic mind of yours for ideas."

the fact that they were so comfortable with one another that they suddenly didn't need pants anymore wasn't something to run away from. a part of jamir was a little worried. he didn't want to seem like he was coming on too strong or anything. yet, he felt completely comfortable with dario. once the blanket was tossed over them, he three his arm around him and just relaxed inside of their fort. soon enough, he found himself smiling from ear to ear when he heard that sleepy comment. he wanted to reply, but then he felt the other drift off to sleep. he didn't move, wanting to make sure he was a solid foundation to rest on, but this was easily one of the chillest nights that he had. he'd stay in that position until it was time to turn the television off and take dario back home. even if that was just on another floor.

[laughtrackfm]

dario de la cruz as the fool

[noasweet]

Noa's jaw freezes mid-chew at Dario's question. How can you swallow something so big so easily? Jesus. What kind of gay shit is this kid huffing? Jar his peaches? Irate confusion paints itself over Noa's face as he finishes his bite and immediately places his snack on the counter. The request he'd had in mind briefly vanishes as he tries to wrap his head around how Dario's brain works.

"You think I jar my own peaches?" More than that, Dario was offering to do it for him. What an insane little freak. Him and that pushover from Portal would make a great couple if Noa wasn't 100% sure that Dario spent a good portion of his shifts checking him out and thinking about him swallowing big things. "No, Dario, I don't want you to jar my fucking peaches. I wanted you to bring something to my girl for me."

[laughtrackfm]

God. He wished the earth would just sprout a sudden sink hole and suck him in right now. He could see Noa's patience thinning by the nanosecond and all he could do was just stand there like the fool he was. His eyes follow the jar of peaches as it was lowered to the counter, bracing himself for whatever Noa was about to throw his way. Very slowly he looks back to meet Noa's gaze, despite how he wanted to disappear right now, he held it with a small smile on his face. Sometimes he wondered how his brain worked too.

"I don't know what you do in your spare time, boss. Maybe. Maybe you like to jar stuff." He knows how stupid he sounds but he's gone too far now, and he just hopes they drop this subject of peaches soon. Though he is relieved to hear that he would not be jarring them. "Oh, okay. Um…wanted? So...do you, like, not want me to do that anymore?" He let the question hang in the air for a second before he lets out a small sigh, his shoulders dropping a bit, and he takes a step forward.

For once.

"Look, boss, I really don't want to start off on the wrong foot. Sorry you caught me on the couch like that, okay? I wasn't...trying to slack off. I won't do it again." He isn't too sure how much his apologize really matters, given that he's also apologized for putting fake snakes around the store and yet he continues to do it. "I'll clean the bathrooms a bit before I leave today to make up for it, if that's okay? But, um...just tell me what you want me to do and I'll do it. I'm not trying to make your return any more of a headache than it probably already is, man."

[merrittstone]

Merritt gives Dario the deadest stare she can, her dark eyes piercing the mask he's gotten so good at wearing. It's been a long time since she'd played the part of his beard, and even when they were dating, she knew exactly what was going on in his little stoner brain. She doesn't press, doesn't push; they're already on the same page. No need to make him feel any more shameful about it than he does.

As she lazily flips through her old magazines, Merritt listens to Dario's desire for change, and her eyebrow slowly inches up her forehead. Her eyes drag to him.

"Right, right, yeah, no, totally. Would love to give you a little makeover." Honestly, she might have to call in Frankie for backup on this one - her own style has always been messy and she doesn't have a great eye for what might look good on men - but the concept of taking him out for a montage-style revamp is interesting. It's just the dating part that snares her. "But um... In order to find you some dates you'd have to be up front with me about what kind of, like, person you're into. You know?"

Merritt turns her attention back to the magazine. Her style is a bit messier than Dario's - she just rips and tears and begins to pile pictures beside her. Most of them are men, cigarettes, and food. She shakes her head. "My life's fine, we're not talking about me. We're talking about Dario. Mmkay?" She takes the little heart-shaped picture with a puppy-like pout and adds it to her stack. "Ugh, you just get me."

[laughtrackfm]

Dario can feel her stare burning a whole right through him, so he keeps himself focused on cutting things instead. It used to gnaw much more at him, the feeling of knowing she could see right through him, but he'd gotten used to numbing that throughout the years. He was glad that she didn't press, even more glad that he had something to keep his attention on, and so he let himself push the conversation to the further parts of his mind.

"You know I was just messing around, right? You don't really have to do any sort of makeover on me. And I definitely don't think I'd be very good as a date right now. Pretty soon I will be too busy helping Easy with his movie, then Jamir with our possible spot we plan to open together in the future. I'll keep you updated once we get more details going." He looks from the magazine to Merritt for a second, clearing his throat, giving a little shrug, then looks back down at the scissors in his hands. He felt the gnawing feeling from earlier return; this time, it was a little stronger.

"I don't know," he says, carefully cutting again, "I like girls that make me laugh, Merritt. I like girls that understand how not to take life so seriously. I li-...look, it was just a joke, it doesn't matter." He couldn’t stop himself, even knowing that Merritt knew him better than that.

His gaze trails over to Merritt's magazine, watching her rip and tear her way through the pages. For some reason the ripping suddenly sounded louder to him. "Glad to know you're doing fine." Now his gaze travels to look at Merritt, trying to ignore the way his throat suddenly wanted to close up on him. He's glad she liked the little cut out at least. "Why are we talking about me again?"

[scrtissues]

victor has never done well with a saturday afternoon off. too much idle time makes him think there’s something else he should be doing, like he’s forgotten to swing by someone’s house or he should be browsing the aisles at pieces and parts for a project another has him on. he’s already circled eden park a couple times to convince himself he wasn’t missing anything important. the only thing that had caught his attention was the hot chocolate booth and he’d patiently stood in line for an hour just for a small cup. eventually he ends up cutting through the foot traffic, walking down the sidewalk until he comes to a halt in front of velvet moon. it was the one place he actually promised to stop by. he listens to dario ramble without interrupting or otherwise making his presence known. he’s more focused on looking through the window at tarot decks and crystals, trying to decide exactly how long counts as stopping by. when dario acknowledges him, victor keeps his expression blank. “it’s nosy as shit,” he shrugs. he’s declined any of juno’s offers for a reading, not out of disbelief, but because it feels a touch too invasive and he’s too superstitious to not believe what the cards have to say are right. and if they are, he doesn’t want to jinx himself by carrying around answers to questions he didn’t ask. “i think it’s real, though.” “line’s long,” he tilts his head in the other direction, “for milkshakes. wrapped around the block.” victor tugs on the door handle to open it, the smell of incense wafting through the crack. “i told juno i’d stop by,” he nods once, taking a step forward into the store and holding the door open halfway as he looks back toward dario again. “get a lucky crystal or something. for your movie.”

[laughtrackfm]

“Nosy is one way to look at it,” he replied, half chuckling. Hearing Vic say he thinks the power the crystal’s hold is real made him nod and look back into the shop. That was enough for him to make up his mind and decide he didn’t feel like messing with the universe today. “Mi-…” his words trail off when Vic mentions the line is long for the milkshakes, sighing to himself, silently accepting that he’ll just be going home empty handed. Until he realizes the door is halfway open and Vic is looking at him like he expects him to follow. There is a brief hesitation before he ultimately does end up reaching out to hold the door and follow in behind Vic.

“It’s not my movie," Dario replies, stepping beside Vic, looking around for a moment. “It’s Easy’s movie. I’m just here to help with the ride and attempt to offer some ideas. I can only hope that I’ll think of something good enough to will help further his film." He looked back to Vic, smiling warmly, "I do like your idea of getting a crystal. I'll give it to him as a gift for good luck on the journey ahead. Hope you know I will be giving you credit too. It was your idea." And he was sure that Easy was going to like the idea that it wasn't just him supporting his film, he had Vic too, plenty of others wanted to do just the same. Any little chance he could take to show his best friend that he was supported Dario was going to take it.

"Besides keeping your promise to Juno," he says, "are you here for anything else? A crystal for you too, perhaps?” He stops to look at a couple of purple crystals, holding one out toward Vic, “What about these? Amethyst Crystals. They help with peace, spiritual protection, and mental clarity. Huh.” He snorts, “I’d probably need at least fifty for any mental clarity.”

[laughtrackfm]

laughter has always been an important part of dario’s life. his father used to be a man who enjoyed doing it, even more spreading it, and it reminds him of a time when life was more simple. ever since meeting easy laughter has always come easier to dario. easy was the first person that dario allowed every single wall down with and let himself laugh freely, genuinely, but most importantly, unapologetically. ( @easyryder )

[jforjanus]

It wasn't compulsion that led CJ across the shared hall to Dario's apartment, one reluctant foot after another, to knock on his door despite knowing full well that it was already unlocked for him to enter anytime- but CJ certainly didn't plan for it. He thought Dario might have been long gone by the time CJ returned from his bout of errands ( and then deciding to stay for the concert...'decide' certainly being the wrong word... more like forced) but the lights were on behind the curtains and CJ realized that Dario would either be late to the afterparty or simply not attend. For some reason, the thought of not seeing Dario at the Stone's house bothered him; like he was a missing puzzle piece that was misplaced then forgotten.

He suggested driving together in front of Dario's door without entering, the angel wings strapped to his back a hassle at the doorframe and he proceeded to leave Dario there to finish any last minute touches while CJ drove his car up to the front of their door. Passenger side window rolled down, CJ watched Dario walk up to the car dressed in black, attention immediately drawn to the only splatter of red atop his head, contrasted against his dark hair. Cat ears! He snorted as Dario entered, eyes still on the red ears while he closed his door and settled in. Not that they were exceptionally interesting, but they did serve CJ in avoiding to look into Dario's eyes directly.

" I don't know if I told you this yet but car is yours if you end up leaving early or anything. I won't be driving it back."

It was the best he could do for now: avoid direct eye contact, maintain a casual neutrality, and no matter what happens, absolutely avoid smoking alone together. The straps of his wings tightened against his shoulders whenever CJ turned the wheel and a permanent wince contorted his face throughout the drive. He just hoped Dario wouldn't mistake the negative expression as being directed toward him.

His eyes were glued on the road, but CJ still half-turned his head to signal Dario that he was listening," yeah?"

" What... what is it?" Then a scowl, this time intentional and unrelated to his uncomfortable attire. CJ sniffed the air harshly in search of the odd scent while he shifted gears and slowed the car to the right side of the empty road. They were close enough to Merritt's house in case anything happened but CJ felt calm even without that certainty. There was no one he trusted more than his companion when it pertained to vehicles. CJ turned off the engine but kept the keys inside the switch, in the event that Dario needed a quick start. He followed Dario outside and to the front of his popped hood, fully lifting the cover for him, wings, halo, and all. CJ remained there, arm stretched out above Dario's head as he held up the hood, his car lacking the prop rod.

" Well? What's the diagnosis, doc?"

[laughtrackfm]

He made sure to leave his 'devil horns' in the car, refusing to do any sort of car work in them. Honestly, if he didn't know he'd feel really bad for not wearing them after his friend was so nice to let him borrow hem, Dario would've just left them at home entirely. He didn't look like a devil, nor an angel, he felt like he just looked ridiculous. Had it not been for CJ asking him to this afterparty at the Stone's house then he would not be going at all, in fact he was half tempted to tell the other that he wanted to go back home. But he didn't. Truthfully, as much as he didn't feel like being social, he was glad for an excuse to be around CJ. Even if it's been a bit confusing for him to be around the other for too long...it still felt nice.

"No, uh, you hadn't told me that. Okay. I'll make sure to take good care of it." He isn't too sure why the thought of not returning with CJ feels weird to him, but it does. The smoke coming from CJ's hood was an easy distraction from that feeling and Dario welcomes the uncertainty of the car issue over wherever his mind was trying to take him.

"Doc? I would hardly call myself that, man." He chuckled, watching as CJ popped the hood open, "I used to go with my old man to the shop he worked at when I was younger, just picked up a few things here and there." He stepped closer, getting beneath CJ and the hood, his eyes scanning the engine and various car parts. "He'd always say..." His voice deepens, trying to mimic his father's tone. " Dario, a car's kind of like a person. If something's wrong, it'll show you—just not always in the way you expect." He leans forward a bit, as if he's trying to listen, really, he's just trying to get a better view of the engine. He checks the oil level, which seems fine. "Hm." Then he opens another compartment, peeking in for a good minute in silence, nodding to himself.

"You just have to slow down," he continued, turning around to face the other, "and pay attention to the little changes." From this angle CJ really did look like an angel just hovering over him, holding the hood up from completely crushing him. "You just have to be willing to be patient enough to want to understand the confusing bits, who knows what new things you'd discover." He wanted to add something else, it was right there, but instead he just let his lips curl into his signature crooked grin. It was the best defense he had. "Luckily, CJ, the issue with your car isn't confusing at all." He leaned in a bit, reaching out to playfully poke CJ's chest, "you're just low on coolant."

He ducks to slip out from beneath CJ, not because he wanted to, because he felt his mind trying to wander if he didn't. And this was not the time to let himself think too much. Right now, they needed to get CJ's car up and running again. From his new angle, however, Dario was able to get a better view of CJ in his angel outfit, he couldn't help the way his smile softened a bit. His lip's part, wanting to tell CJ he looked good, really good, if only he had that courage, instead he ends up softly clearing his throat.

"Do you have any coolant back up in your trunk or something?" He looked in the direction they were heading, "I mean, I guess the bright side is that we aren't too far if we have to walk. If we still plan to drive it," he shrugs, looking back to CJ, "I guess we could but very slowly. I wouldn't risk overheating that bad boy again unless you feel like dropping major cash to fix it. Maybe tomorrow, if you'd like, I could get you back in shape. Free of charge. Obviously. All this, of course, assuming you don't have coolant back there." He nods to CJ's trunk, slightly rambling out of nerves.

[hayesonthecourt]

If there is one thing that has made the move to Colossal worth it, it's this. And many other moments just like it. All involving Dario, a brother she never asked for. The only thing she'd change about their relationship is that she thinks she would've liked to have had him in it sooner. Minus the stretch of time where she took him for granted where their parents quick marriage and blended family dynamic was more a point of contention than an opportunity to bond.

So, Dev smiles, soft and sweet, and her mouth opens to answer him and return that sentiment, until that Dario-patented impish grin splits through the sincerity. Her hair is ruffled, and she is left in his dust. "What, no! You're a cheater!" She laughs as she speed walks, having already lost the race she didn't know she signed up for.

"What a gentleman," Dev teases, and she lifts her hand to ( gently ) flick Dario's ear before slipping through the doorway to wait for him to lock up. "It was about as eventful as it ever is for me. I was on my best behavior."

Devon is grateful for her own self control. From what it sounds likes, most people hit some sort of bump in the road with someone somewhere and at some point. Her biggest 'oops' was being the slightest bit snappy with Frankie, and Dev thinks that's pretty mild.

She laughs and gives her brother a skeptical glance as she walks beside him. "Oh, of course he did," Dev muses aloud. "But I'm glad you found your target audience. You should figure out a big trick as a birthday surprise for him."

[laughtrackfm]

"Oh. C'mon, Dev," Dario chuckled, softly. "I don't think Milo cares that much about my magic tricks. You know he's just a nice guy like that. He probably already forgot all about them. It was just...cool." But the smile on his face was absolutely giving away how he was trying to think of what cool trick he could present Milo for his birthday and then he'd have to do one for Merritt too. "We'll see. It's not like I really know what else I could get him. That was probably the most conversation I've ever had with the guy, and it was about magic tricks." He made a mental note to work on his party ice breakers.

Knowing Colossal like the back of his hand is the only thing that's allowing Dario to walk backwards still without having bumped into something. He was trusting Dev to guide him out of the way of any person who might be coming down the same sidewalk. "Well, you're always at your best, Dev. I don't think there's ever been a time you've been anything less than the best. But, you know, you do have to let a little loose at one of these parties. What if I promise that I'll be your DD?"

Raising both hands, he can't help himself, "I know, I know. Dario! You're such a cool brother. I know. Really, it's no big deal. I don't mind it as long as you promise me you'll make at least one drunken mistake. Doesn't have to be major, but ya know. Something like you told someone you thought they were hot or something."

Without much notice he turns around and begins falling in step beside her now. He stays quiet for a second as he debated how to say what he wanted to say next. "Something might've happened," he says, slowly, "and it might've involved another person that we are friends with. I'm not allowed to say who," he admits, " but it's not that big of a deal. I swear. It was a pretty good kiss," that definitely left an impression, "but, um..yeah! That happened."

A small noise can be heard as they pass by an alley that makes Dario slow down and turn in the direction that he thinks it came from. "Did you hear that?"