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@madeofechoes

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@madeofechoes

“Can you imagine a movie where Tatum and Stu were the masterminds?” Jin said thoughtfully. Suddenly he wished he was a TV or movie writer so he could write it. “I think that’d be a more interesting duo than him and Billy. I love Tatum, and I think her and Stu had each other wrapped around their finger… Even though none of them would admit it.” He smiled some to himself. “Besides, it would have been a completely different movie. Different motives, different kind of passion behind the killings, all that.”

Jin’s brain was simultaneously trying to catalog every little detail of this very moment, at the same time as it was trying to convince him that he was about to fuck it all up like he usually did. Mateo’s thumb on his jaw, the way he spoke so gently, the tenderness in every touch… it was both too much and exactly right at the same time. “No, no. Definitely not stop.” Jin shook his head, his hand coming up behind Mateo’s neck to keep him close to himself. “Unless you want to stop, in which case we can absolutely stop, but… I don’t really want to stop.”

Jin was rambling. He knew he was, but Mateo had just questioned what he had done to deserve such a blessing, and Jin’s ability to be smooth about anything had suddenly completely abandoned him. “You didn’t do anything,” Jin said, shaking his head with a small smile. “Well, actually, that’s a lie. You did everything, actually. You kept our son safe. You remembered our pie mission. You came back for me in the hypothetical horror movie.” He chuckled lightly, brushing his fingers along the hair in the nape of Mateo’s neck. “You’re the blessing, not me.”

Jin reached down to take Mateo’s hand in his as he rested his forehead against his. He gave his hand a gentle squeeze and looked up at him. He honestly couldn’t believe how lucky he was to be sitting here like this with Mateo again. He definitely didn’t deserve it. Like, at all. He gave him another gentle kiss and rested his forehead against his, leaning into the warm comfort coming from the other man. “I’m sorry.”

“I imagine they would’ve had multiple movies made with just them as the masterminds,” Mateo said thoughtfully, a little spark lighting in his eyes as he leaned back just enough to picture it. “I have a feeling they wouldn’t get caught right away because Tatum would make sure of it. She’d keep Stu focused. Strategic chaos. That’s their brand.” He leaned in again with a crooked smirk. “And you know what? I’d be lining up to watch every single one of them. Midnight premieres. Themed snacks. Full commitment. I’d argue with strangers online about their character arcs.” His grin softened as the space between them shifted again, more than happy to let Jin keep him close. The joking edge of his voice melted into something quieter. “No, no. I can tell you with the utmost certainty that I do not want to stop.” His thumb brushed lightly at Jin’s jaw, “I… might’ve wanted to do that for a while.”

Every word Jin spoke landed somewhere deep, somewhere he’d tried not to poke at too much since they’d drifted apart. You’re the blessing, not me. Mateo swallowed, his gaze softening in a way he didn’t bother disguising. “But you are a blessing, Jin,” he said gently, the corners of his mouth lifting in a small, sincere smile. “I’ve felt that way since day one. Time nor circumstances have never ever changed that.” His smile softened, “I’m always going to keep our son safe. And I’ll never leave you behind. Not even in a hypothetical horror movie.” His nose brushed lightly against Jin’s for a brief second, giving him a little eskimo kiss before planting another gentle kiss to his lips.

When Jin took his hand and rested their foreheads together, Mateo’s fingers tightened instinctively around his, holding on without hesitation. “Hey,” he murmured, thumb brushing slow circles over Jin’s knuckles. “You don’t have to apologize for anything. Everything is okay. Everything will always be okay with us, remember?" His voice was quiet, but unwavering. He leaned in to press a soft kiss to Jin’s temple, lingering there for a second before pulling back just enough to look at him properly. His free hand drifted to Jin’s waist without him even thinking about it, drawing little circles.

He took a second to exhales a soft breath, his eyes searched Jin’s face, hopeful but careful, he didn’t want to rush something precious. “Do you think,” he began, voice a little softer than before, “maybe you’d be open to…us going on a date, perhaps?” A faint, nervous smile tugged at his lips. “Not a grocery store snack aisle summit. Not co-parent visitation hours. An actual date. Dinner somewhere that isn’t fluorescent. Maybe a walk after.” His thumb squeezed Jin’s hand gently. “I just…I’d really like to take you out. If you’d let me.”

#mateo + jin #mateo threads.

Jin nodded. “Same time next week,” he agreed. Though he hoped there’d be more meetings than just once a week. What if their son, or Teddy, forgot what he looked like between visits? Though, judging by Teddy’s reaction to Jin suddenly appearing on his doorstep tonight, he didn’t think he’d forget him that easily. It was also a relief to see Mateo hadn’t forgotten him, or their ways. Everything fell right back into place where it should be, almost like they’d never had any time apart after all.

“I think if you removed the loyalty trait from Stu, he would be much more impulsive, and he’d definitely get caught. But he’d have a good time while it lasted. I mean, he did, but he was also frustrated by being held back by Billy.” Jin pointed out, smiling some up at Mateo. He felt his shoulder brushing against his own, he was suddenly very aware of how close they were. Normally he would probably have pulled away, but right now he didn’t want to. In fact, he wanted more of that warmth.

“I think sequels are better when they have a story to follow.” Jin said as his hand came up to rest on Mateo’s wrist. He was pretty sure by this point, Mateo could hear, and feel, his heart beating in his chest. The one glass of wine helped him talk his way into this, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t extremely nervous. “I think we should fix it, though.” He said, his eyes dropping to Mateo’s lips once more before meeting his gaze again. “You know, just in case a sequel isn’t in the budget.” He reasoned teasingly.

Jin shifted so he could lean closer and close the distance between them, he pressed his lips to Mateo’s, gentle and careful at first, like he was trying to remember how this all worked, or like he was afraid that if he moved too fast the moment would shatter. After a moment, Jin pulled back and looked up at Mateo, trying to read his expression. “Now, I think the setup is pretty perfect.” He said with a small smile tugging on his lips. “But that could just be me.”

“Same time next week,” Mateo agreed, smiling a little more openly this time. The words felt good in his mouth, happy to know he was going to see Jin again. “But I’m buying the snacks this time. No ifs, ands, or buts about it.” He shot Jin a mock-stern look, brows lifting like he was laying down the law, but it melted into a playful grin almost immediately. There was a part of him that wanted to suggest more than once a week—something normal, something that didn’t involve fluorescent lights and the snack aisle at an ungodly hour—but he swallowed that thought down. One step at a time. “Consistency,” he added lightly, lifting his glass.

"Also, justice for Stu,” he declared, raising his wine in a dramatic little salute before taking a sip. “And Tatum. I loved her. I hate she went out in such a weak way. I mean, if she was going to die, it could’ve been more gnarly. She deserved that.” He shook his head, clearly still offended on her behalf years later. His shoulder stayed pressed against Jin’s, and this time he didn’t pretend it was accidental. He didn’t move away. If anything, he leaned into it. “You’re right, though. Without loyalty, Stu’s just chaos with no direction. Which is fun… but short-lived.” His eyes softened as he looked at Jin. “I hope there is a budget for a sequel." And then Jin’s hand was on his wrist.

His heartbeat thudded so loudly it was almost disorienting, like it was drumming in his ears. The room felt like it tipped slightly off-axis. Everything slowed down, the flicker of the TV light, the faint hum of the refrigerator, the space between them shrinking in careful inches. He hadn’t let himself imagine this. Not really. Not after everything. Not after convincing himself that maybe that chapter had closed. His breath hitched softly just before Jin leaned in, and then their lips met. Mateo kissed him back instantly. It was soft at first—testing, gentle, almost reverent. Like rediscovering something fragile that had been tucked away too long. It was beautiful in its simplicity, and it took him completely by surprise how right it felt. When Jin pulled back, a quiet breath slipped from Mateo’s lips, almost shaky. He smiled, eyes a little dazed. “Perfect,” he murmured, voice low and honest.

There was a small pause—just enough for the weight of it to settle —before Mateo closed the space this time. For the first time, he stepped forward instead of waiting.

His hand slid gently to Jin’s jaw, thumb brushing just beneath his cheekbone as he kissed him again—deeper now, still tender but more certain. Not rushed. Not hesitant either. This was every restrained feeling, every almost, every what-if finally given permission to exist. When he finally eased back, he didn’t go far, their foreheads nearly touching. “You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do that,” he confessed softly, a breath of a laugh under the words. And before things could tilt too heavy, too serious, he pressed one more tender kiss to Jin’s lips. “I don’t know what I did to deserve such a blessing,” he teased gently, eyes warm and bright, “but I hope I do it again.”

His thumb traced lightly along Jin’s jaw, a bit reluctant to let go. "Do you want to stop?"

#mateo threads.#mateo + jin

He feels the gaze lingering, he can always tell whenever Elias is looking. He doesn’t mention it, never has―he doesn’t want to scare away the other man. That and also because Izar welcomes anything from Elias. He’s constantly famished for the other. He understands the hatred of men because he’s witnessed it for a very long time, but he still cannot understand, nor accepted the hatred sent toward the emberwolf. He hears the reasons, hears the insults, but they make no sense to him. So Izar blames it on jealousy.

But there’s no time to think of hate, when the one he loves more than the vastness of all galaxies combine is undressing before him. Izar drinks in his beauty, how each muscles flexes easily with simple movements, how the beautiful curls brushes against shoulders he longs to kiss. For a moment, it feels like his heart will jump out of his ribcage. Elias turns and everything stops for a second before their hands touch. As soon as the emberwolf is by him, he pulls the cover over his waist. He wants to kiss that hand he holds in his, but instead, his mouth finds the emberwolf’s.

For a moment, he forgets the guilt. It’s so easy to do so when Elias kisses him like this, pulls him close. Even more so, when he puts a leg over Izar. The celestial beast’s hand slides up the muscular thigh until he reaches Elias’ ass and pulls his hips closer as he thrusts forward. They’ve messed around while sitting before, but not like this, not when Elias is more in tune with his emotions. He frees his other hand to caress the curls he loves so much.

Though, as soon as Elias halts, the guilt comes rushing back and he almost pulls back completely. He doesn’t. Only because he cannot stop himself from touching the emberwolf and knows how much damages doing so would cause Elias. He can feel his the whole front of his ribcage vibrating almost painfully to the erratic beat of his heart.

What if he didn’t slow down tonight? What if he let their love win isn’t of the guilt he feels?

He’s right, he’d been patience, but he’s been suffering and Izar realises that he’s been torturing not just himself but Elias too. What must his mate be thinking? The horror he’s hear thrown at Elias, maybe the emberwolf believes it’s why Izar hasn’t gone more after so long…? “I’m sorry―” He whispers. He’s apologizing for causing grief to Elias, but also to Moira for being unable to hold back any longer.

He let go of Elias’ ass just long enough to half yank down his boxer-brief, if only to free his erection. He tries to control himself still. He pushes his cock pass the fabric of Elias’ brief, thrusting between ass cheeks with a growl. “I’m sorry―” He says again, tearing up; though his tears are not like humans, but milky iridescent white. “I love you so much Elias… my mate.” He confesses before he can stop himself. His nails turn to claws and unknown galaxies fill his eyes.

Just this once, let me forget my guilt.

He prays to the Moon; she listens.

He still needs the words, still need that final request, that final permission to move forward.

#elias + izar #elias threads.#nsfw tw

He holds Ricardo as if with a gust of air, he would simply crumble into a thousand pieces, and Maddox is the only thing that could keep such shards together, always waiting for the other shoe to drop. That maybe this truly isn't real, that Ric isn't really here, as if this newfound happiness - and this fucking nightmarish miracle isn't real. There are so few good things in the undead's life...he pleads to be able to keep this one thing. Please, let me keep this one thing. Let me keep Ricardo.

Eventually, the full body shaking ceases, soothed by careful caresses and gentle kisses and touches, as do the sobs yet, not once does he let go of the other undead. Those hands he adores carefully cup his face, and the man he loves dearly tells him not to apologise, brushing away the wetness that lingers on his cheeks. "I love you," Maddox says again, as if its the answer to everything in this moment. Things are complicated, there is still a despicable witch in the picture but, for now, it's just the two of them, in this room, each the centre of the others universe.

A warm hand presses to his cold chest, where his un-beating heart sits, Ric's words sincere and soft. I want to figure out this new life with you. I died loving you, and I was reborn loving you. Maddox says very little and lets the other talk, each word burrowing its way within his chest and sitting there, heavy and sentimental. The question posed is one he never thought he'd ever hear - my partner, my lover, my other half. Maddox lets a small smile grace his features, eyes slipping shut as Ric presses his lips to his forehead and asks him things he'd only ever dreamed of hearing.

"Ric," His voice is warm, full of hope. "I would love to be all that and more. If only you would be the same for me - my sunshine, my witch, my darling Ricardo," Maddox asks in return, hands finding the others waist and thumbing skin there affectionately.

"Stay with me,"

Ricardo melts fully into Maddox’s embrace, letting every ounce of tension, every lingering fear, dissolve in the warmth of the other’s presence. “I love you,” he whispers, soft at first, then again, louder, letting it echo off the walls of the room, letting it anchor him to this impossible, miraculous reality. He repeats it as many times as Maddox will allow, each iteration more fervent than the last, as if saying it aloud could somehow lock the two of them into this one perfect moment. Malachi, the obligations, the weight of every threat outside the door—they vanish entirely. There is only Maddox, only the feel of his hands, the smell of his skin, the certainty in him pressed against Ricardo’s chest. The universe narrows into the small bubble they’ve carved out together, and it’s enough. It’s more than enough.

Ricardo tilts his head, resting his forehead against Maddox’s, letting his lips brush against the curve of his jaw as he murmurs, “I love you. I love you. I love you.” Each repetition trembles with devotion, with relief, with joy that he can hardly contain. His hands roam lightly, brushing over Maddox’s shoulders, down his arms, memorizing the feel of him as though he’s also afraid if he lets go, that this will vanish, like a dream dissipating in daylight. He lets himself breathe with Maddox, truly breathe, each inhale filling him with warmth, each exhale letting go of years of uncertainty and longing he thought he’d never escape.

When he finally looks up, his eyes find Maddox’s, shimmering with everything unsaid, and he whispers softly, “What did you do, Maddox? How—how did you survive all that?” The question isn’t accusatory, not even curious—it’s tender, filled with concern even now. "I'm sorry for every day you had to go without me. For ever making you think I wasn't coming back, for leaving without a proper goodbye. I'll spend every day of this new life making it up to you, my beloved. I'll love you harder by the second and remind you why you're so special to me every morning and night." And fight, fight against anyone or thing that would try to come between them.

“I would love to be all of that, and anything else you’d wish of me, my beloved, sweet Maddox,” Ricardo says then, letting his hands slide down to cup Maddox’s face fully, thumbs brushing over the tears, memorizing every line, every curve. He can feel Maddox’s hands finding his waist, fingers pressing warmly into him, and he can’t resist the pull. Slowly, gently, he scoots closer, letting his legs slide over Maddox’s so he’s straddling him, sitting, facing him, hands still cradling his cheeks. The closeness is electric, intimate, the air around them thick with the heat of their shared breaths. “I’ll stay,” he murmurs, “for as long as you’ll have me. You are my heart, Maddox, and I am yours, entirely, in ways that no past or unknown future can undo.”

Ricardo leans in, pressing his lips to Maddox’s in a deep, lingering kiss, one that carries both fire and tenderness, need and reverence. His hands travel lightly over Maddox’s back and shoulders, before returning to cup his face. Ric pauses only to whisper against Maddox’s lips, voice husky, "I"m sorry. Just..." Then, without breaking contact, he deepens the kiss, letting it smolder, letting every pulse of longing and love, resonate between them, until nothing else exists but them, pressed together, finally, irrevocably, alive in each other’s arms. And only after a moment does Ricardo pull back, ending the kiss with a gentle peck. "Did you want to lay down for the evening?"

#ricardo + maddox #ricardo threads.

JIN: You're cold. Cold as ice. JIN: Sure, preferably somewhere with steak now that you've mentioned it, though. When? Tonight, or some other time?

KAITO: you choose to deal with me. i don't want to hear it. KAITO: we can do tonight, if you're free. KAITO: if we do tonight...does 7pm pick up work for you?

#kaito + jin #kaito threads.

JIN: I mean, between us he's just learning about the delicious kinds of nutrition. JIN: None of us are doing anything bad, I think. JIN: We're supposed to spoil our kids, right? 🤔 JIN: [ ❤️ a photo ]

MATEO: wow. look at us go <3. we are such good parents 😌 MATEO: yes! it's true. we are. and you know what? our child is an alien baby. they need extra spoiling because they need to be introduced to a lot more things, you know? MATEO: what kind of parents would we be if we didn't take upon ourselves to make sure our baby had the very best earth experience ever? MATEO: speaking of experiences, have we taken him to the aquarium yet?

#mateo + jin #mateo threads.

cowboy-tumbleweed

TANNER: I guess so TANNER: Remains to be seen TANNER: I saw that greys anatomy one with the babydoll heads TANNER: want one? fair's fair. Here. And it's Tanner.

MATEO: babydoll heads is crazy work. MATEO: some stuff is better left to the imagination. sorry i asked. MATEO: hey, tanner. it's nice to meet you. this is me. MATEO: [sends attachment] MATEO: [one minute later] i'm joking. MATEO: [send attachment]

#mateo + tanner #mateo threads.

“I suppose a part of me resonate with the character’s story. Though, I like to believe I’m kinder than Armand, but I can still understand why he became the man he did in the book.” It’s probably the part about being dragged out of his many lives, how he had to rebuild himself and how much suffering he went through―those are things Simon understands intimately. Shadowfax has heard his whole story, knows his real name, something that not even his therapist knows about. Sometimes, he catches himself before saying something he cannot to Emiliano. There’s something about the older man that has always put him at ease. A feeling of wanting to share more and having the other person do the same. “I can lend it to you once I’m done, which should be in less than two days. It’s a quit read. You might be confused by some things, but it can still be read as a standalone.” There’s a pause, before Simon asks: “Do you have a favorite book?” Maybe that could be his next read.

“Really?!” He says sounding as he felt; surprised. “He seems so happy. Actually this whole place―it feels like a safe haven. I think that’s all you.” Simon wonders if that had sounded the way he’d intended. Though he tries not to push to far down that train of thoughts as this place, but also Emiliano feels like warmth and peacefulness to him.

“I’d love to learn more about how to take better care of him.” He says, not accepting just yet; even though in his heart, he’s already said yes a thousand times. “Would you teach me?” He almost sounds out of breath and that’s when it hits him how fast his heart is beating. He’s just that if he looked down right now and paused a moment, he’d see his chest moving with each pulse of his heart. A soft breathless laugh follows―”I don’t think any of my friends would be of any help for that. I’ve seen the long hours you work to take care of your ranch and brewery, and even if it’s just one horse, Shadowfax also deserves someone who’ll have his back… so I need to be in it fully.” He doesn’t know why he suddenly asks the next question, but he blurts it out nonetheless. “Do you have someone who has your back Emiliano?” The tone of his voice is caring and concerned and a part of him wants to reach out to the older man. It’s such a strong feeling that one of his hand had been halfway to do it, before he realizes what he’d been about to do and pulls it back.

“Always food motivated that one, but we’re alike on that.” Simon laughs to himself. “That sounds delicious and home cooked meal is always fancy to me. I’d love to join you for dinner Emiliano.” He accepts without even thinking. Maybe too quickly, but no take back! “You can tell me how you’ve been.” Simon is so happy, but tries to calm himself down and not overthink anything. It’s just dinner between friends; he keeps telling himself. That and Kaito get out of my head. Cause he needs to not think about what his friend had told him about hand touching or he’ll go mad over analyzing everything.

Emiliano gave a small, warm smile, the kind that tugged lightly at the corners of his mouth as he brushed a hand through the back of his neck. “Safe haven, hm?” he said quietly, voice low but steady, and he let his gaze drift over the ranch as if seeing it through Simon’s eyes for a moment. “And of course I’ll teach you. If you want to take care of him right, I’ll show you what to do—feeding, grooming, handling him, all of it. Shadowfax deserves someone who’s going to give it their all. And you…you’ve got the heart for it, Simon. You just gotta let it out a little at a time.” He paused briefly, then his expression softened further, fondness creeping into his tone. “As for someone who’s got my back…why, yes. My good friend Benny. One of these days I’ll have to introduce the two of you.”

He motioned toward the path leading off the barn, nodding with a quiet, steady confidence. “Come on, then. Dinner’s waiting, and I’ll walk you through some of the ways of the ranch on the way.” The walk was unhurried, filled with soft conversation. By the time they reached the house, the sun had dipped low, spilling amber light across the porch and the front yard. The place was cozy, warm in its lived-in way—too big for just him and Bandit, maybe, but Emiliano refused to give it up. It held memories, quiet corners for reading, and a sense of peace he’d carved out for himself over the years.

"As for my favorite book," he said, returning to the question from earlier, a thoughtful crease forming between his brows, "I’d have to go with All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy. There’s something about the way he writes about the land, the horses, and the quiet grit of life that…well, it speaks to me. You might like it—lots of heart, lots of hard work, and a way of seeing the world that stays with you long after you’ve closed the cover."

Once inside, the smell of the pot roast simmering on the stove mingled with the faint, homely scent of wood and old leather. Emiliano wasted no time, rolling up his sleeves and washing his hands before setting out plates and bowls, then scooping up steaming mashed potatoes to go with the roast. He arranged everything carefully on the table, nodding to Simon with a gentle, inviting smile. “Please, take a seat wherever you choose,” he said, his tone warm, easy, and lightly teasing, the kind that made it feel like Simon belonged there already.

Moving over to the counter, Emiliano picked up a bottle and began to pour them each a glass of wine, the liquid warm and glimmering softly in the light. “I learned how to make this just the other day,” he said, holding the glass out toward Simon with a shrug that carried both pride and caution. “If you don’t like wine, or you don’t drink, I will take no offense to you not trying it.” He nodded toward the table where a glass of water waited. “I’ve got some water here too, or juice or soda in the fridge if you’d prefer. Nothing fancy, just…what works for you.” He set the glasses down, giving Simon a small, patient smile, letting the quiet hum of the home settle around them before he finally took his own seat.

He leaned back slightly, letting a slow exhale escape him before he looked over at Simon. “Been keeping busy, same as always—ranch, brewery, Bandit causing a ruckus,” he said with a small, fond shake of his head. “Nothing grand, nothing exciting…just the usual. But it’s good. Keeps me honest, I guess.” He chewed thoughtfully for a moment, then gestured toward the plate in front of him with the tip of his fork. “What do you think of the roast? Does it need a little more salt or anything?” His tone was casual, easy, but there was an attentive note underneath, like he genuinely wanted Simon’s opinion, not just about the food, but about sharing this quiet, simple piece of his life.

#emiliano + simon #emiliano threads.#// benny is written by a good friend named laura :D <3

“Regular visits for his well-being,” Jin repeated with a nod, somehow managing to keep his voice steady despite the warmth spreading through his chest. Damn it, Mateo always had this effect on him. “Very responsible of us.” He added, taking another sip of his wine. He was reaching a point where he felt more relaxed, his shoulders less tense, and the conversation felt easier. The wine he had been given was definitely helping. Everything was starting to feel more like it used to with Mateo.

Mateo’s own assessment about Stu had Jin nod along, genuinely engaged in what he was saying. “Weaponising being underestimated is exactly what he did. I think he was loyal to Billy, and he did want him to succeed. I think without Billy he would have been found out pretty quickly, because he got too excited about the grizzly details to think about the small ‘don’t get caught’ details, you know? So they make a great team, but I still think Billy is a bitch. And Stu is too loyal to him.” He said and shrugged. “He’s charismatic chaos, which is super dangerous, but unfortunately my favourite kind of charisma and chaos.” He joked.

Jins throat felt tight when Mateo said he’d never leve him behind, not even running for his life in a horror movie. The way he said it with such certainty made Jin believe it, and it definitely triggered his flight response – or it would have done, had he not been so comfortable here on the floor with their pie and wine. It also made him feel guilty, because leaving him behind was exactly what Jin had done to Mateo last time things had been too real for him. “You’d come back for me?” He said, his voice soft as he looked up at Mateo. “Tactically speaking, that’s really stupid.” He teased, but without any malice behind it. “But I appreciate the gesture a lot. Maybe there is hope for me after all. Maybe we get to be in the sequel?”

Mateo asking what the blackberry pie paired best with had Jin’s brain short circuit for a moment. He watched him carefully, taking in the way he was holding his wineglass, the soft expression on his face, and the way the light from the TV hit his features, and his eyes. “This,” he said finally, gesturing to the setup around them. The pies, the wine, the movie, Teddy, their alien plushie. The fact that it was also in the middle of the night, Jin’s favourite time of day, also helped. “All of it together.” He held Mateo’a gaze for a moment longer than necessary. “Maybe… only one thing missing.” He said as his eyes flicked to Mateo’s lips briefly before back up at his eyes.

“Role model co-parents,” Mateo declared, lifting his glass slightly like he was making a toast. “That’s what they’ll call us.” His mouth curved into a teasing grin. “So, I’ll pencil you in for one day next week? Same time. For consistency, obviously.” He nudged Jin lightly with his knee. “We’ll grab late-night takeout. I know a spot we can hit up." Talking like this with Jin, Mateo couldn't help but to note how easy it always was for him to settle back into rhythm with the other.

When Jin called Billy a bitch, Mateo barked out a surprised laugh, nearly sloshing his wine. “Okay, first of all, that’s harsh,” he said, though his grin betrayed him. “Second of all…you’re not wrong.” He shifted closer without really thinking about it, shoulder brushing Jin’s as he talked. “Stu is loyal to a fault. That’s the tragedy of it. He’d burn the whole world down if Billy asked him to—and Billy absolutely would ask.” He tipped his head. “But you liking charismatic chaos?” His eyes narrowed playfully. “That tracks. Concerning, but it tracks.” His voice dipped just slightly. “Guess it’s a good thing I’m more ‘strategic survival instincts’ than ‘unhinged accomplice.’ Keeps the dynamic balanced.”

The teasing faded when Jin asked, softly, You’d come back for me? Mateo didn’t hesitate. “Yeah,” he replied gently, softly smiling. Mat let some of the playfulness slip away for a moment. He held Jin’s gaze, something open and unguarded sitting there. “Tactically stupid? Absolutely. Horrible survival odds. And the audience is probably going to be yelling at me that the killer is going to get us.” His mouth twitched faintly. “Still doing it.” There was a flicker in his expression then, “I don’t really do sequels without my favorite character,” he added quietly.

When Jin said maybe only one thing was missing—when his eyes dipped, brief but unmistakable—Mateo felt the air shift. The TV light flickered across Jin’s face, across his lips, and for a second the world narrowed down to the space between them. Mateo set his wine glass down carefully. “Only one thing?” he echoed, voice lower now. His eyes dropped to Jin’s lips and then lifted again, slower this time, making sure Jin knew he wasn’t pretending not to notice. His knee pressed a little more firmly against Jin’s, grounding himself in the contact, gravity pulling him in closer, but he didn’t close the distance—not yet. He let the moment stretch, warm and charged, the kind that felt fragile in the best way. Instead, he reached up slowly, giving Jin enough time to pull away if he wanted to, and brushed a stray piece of hair back from his face. His fingers lingered just long enough to trace the line of Jin’s cheek, light and careful, like he was mapping something he didn’t want to forget.

He swallowed softly, thumb resting for a brief second near Jin’s jaw. “Should we fix that,” he murmured softly, gaze steady and searching, “or are we letting it haunt us until the sequel?”

#mateo + jin #mateo threads.

cowboy-tumbleweed

If there was ever a ride or die, it was Mat and Corey. The two of them might not have come out of the womb together, but they were as close to siblings as anyone could be. He made a good fake boyfriend, when Corey hadn't wanted to come out in a small town or hadn't quite figured themselves out. He would be the best man at Corey's wedding, but kissing him wasn't something they had wanted to repeat, even as a teenager. If Corey wasn't attracted to someone as handsome, kind and incredible as Mat, they had known no other man had a shot. "Don't call it watermelon. I don't think people like that. You can keep your zuccini," they teased.

"I'll have to ask the old lady about the BBQ. I don't know if her family would wanna come out. They gotta see the house at some point. You can bring your dang... baby alien." Whatever weird situation was going down between the Mateo and Jin, Corey only hoped their friend wouldn't get hurt. Mat had a huge heart. He loved so fully. He always had. That love had been placed in the hands of people who didn't deserve it for too long. "Just be careful," was the only warning they gave. "I'm here if you wanna rant about boy shit." Lord knew Corey had bitched in Mat's ear enough times, especially recently, though things with Charlie had settled now.

"Hell yeah I ran into Rey. Shit, for somewhere so big, LA sure is small. We're playing music again. Shit keeps happening, man," Corey sighed, completing their food order on Charlotte's card, and gesturing for Mat to follow them outside. Corey plucked their cigarettes from their pocket, Bruin following at their heels as they made their way to the back yard. Corey didn't smoke in the house. Their mom would never let them get away with that, and it was a habit that had stayed with them. Bruin picked up a deflated soccer ball that was lying on the patio and ran around with it in his mouth. "You can kick and throw it around for him. He wants you to," Corey chuckled, heading down to the large, grassy area of the yard. "So, I haven't really told anyone yet, but... I found out something, or I guess, she found it out. I met my sister. My half-sister. I know who my dad is."

Mat followed Corey out into the backyard, hands stuffed deep in his pockets, a small, apologetic grin tugging at his lips as he adjusted to the fresh air. “Zucchini it is,” he said with a soft chuckle, giving Corey a playful nudge as they passed Bruin, who immediately darted toward the deflated soccer ball, tail wagging like crazy. Mat crouched down for a second, scooping the ball up and tossing it lightly, grinning at the dog’s excited bark and little hops. “You know I’ve got this covered. Don’t worry, I know the drill,” he said, watching Bruin sprint and stumble over his own excitement. He always loved these moments with Corey—the easy comfort, the rhythm of old friendship where nothing needed explanation. For a second, the chaos of LA and his own complicated thoughts seemed far away, and he could just breathe. He couldn’t help but think of Teddy, wishing he was here, and he made a mental note to apologize to him later for leaving him behind.

Mat grinned and shook his head, letting his gaze wander over the yard as Corey mentioned Rey and their music. “Man, LA is wild like that,” he said, voice light but full of warmth. “You blink and the whole city feels like it’s shrinking. One minute you’re bumping into people you know halfway across town, the next it feels like the streets are a maze designed to surprise you.” He laughed softly, shaking his head again. “I’m glad shit keeps happening though. It’s good to see you rolling with it, running into old friends, doing your thing, keeping the music alive. Honestly, seeing you handle all of it—life, work, your music—is very motivational,” he added, a faint tease in his tone, though the underlying pride in Corey was unmistakable.

Finally, when Corey dropped the bomb about their half-sister, Mat froze for a heartbeat, letting the words sink in. He looked at them with genuine curiosity and a flicker of awe, his jaw softening as he tried to process it. “Wait… seriously? That’s… wow. That’s a lot, man,” he said softly, shaking his head in disbelief. He crouched down to toss the ball to Bruin again, watching the dog race across the yard with a big, sloppy grin, and felt a strange mix of happiness and awe for Corey. “I mean…that’s huge. That’s really huge. I can’t even imagine what it must’ve felt like finding out, meeting her, realizing all that history,” he continued, his voice quieter now, almost reverent. “I know it’s probably a lot to wrap your head around, but I’m here for anything you need, alright? I mean it—vent, freak out, laugh, cry, whatever. You’ve got me.”

Mat straightened back up, hands loosening from his pockets as he looked at Corey more directly. “Seriously, though…how are you handling everything? Did it go okay when you found out? Did you get a chance to meet him, your dad, or… talk to her at all?” He shifted slightly, leaning against the fence for support, his tone soft and concerned. “I know this isn’t easy, and I get it if you’re still figuring out what it all means. But I just… want to make sure you’re alright. You don’t have to answer all at once, or even now, but I want to know that you’re doing okay.” There was a quiet weight in his words, that protective side, paired with an almost paternal instinct to make sure Corey felt safe and supported.

#mateo + corey #mateo threads.

Text to Mateo @madeofechoes

JIN: [Attachment] JIN: I fear he may have picked up a bad habit or two from me.

MATEO: [ ♥️ a photo ] MATEO: omg! what? no way is this in any way or shape bad! MATEO: monster is superior to all energy drinks. you're just teaching our boy about quality taste. MATEO: [attachment] MATEO: can't say the same for me...

#mateo + jin #mateo threads.

JIN: thanks, baymax :) JIN: I'm usually free, why? What did you have in mind?

KAITO: yeah, yeah. KAITO: steak. so, i can break up with you. KAITO: but seriously, i was thinking about asking if you wanted to meet up for some drinks and food. nothing fancy...maybe some lowkey bar?

#kaito + jin #kaito threads.

Simon: Am I what? Happy that you're smiling?! OF COURSE!!!!!! Simon: That would work if you come during Spring break. Really?! Oh I cannot wait to hear your work again! Simon: Being selfish at times doesn't make your heart smaller. And I've already read into it... sorry Simon: Liiiissssteeeeeen Simon: Might just be my head or by accident. We do talk about just anything I guess. Does that mean anything? Fuck I sound like a teen with no experience.

KAITO: okay, okay. you made me smile. KAITO: spring break it is. also, when is that? KAITO: ha. don't apologize. it's fine. i mean, i get what you mean. thank you, simon. KAITO: you do not sound like a teen with no experience, i assure you. i think being able to talk about just anything with someone is very meaningful, simon. who knows...maybe that's his way of trying to let you in without making it obvious because he might also be uncertain as to where you both stand? KAITO: don't take advise from me though...i'm the worst person for it.

#kaito + simon #kaito threads.

cowboy-tumbleweed

TANNER: Well if he looks like a toad, why are you talking to him? TANNER: Your name is Mateo and you won't send me a pic. Do you look like a toad? TANNER: I've just watched a lot of those weird ER moments videos TANNER: I'm bored. And I'm invested in the rubber ducks.

MATEO: because even toads deserve friends, right? MATEO: maybe i do! are you going to stop talking to me now :C? MATEO: what's the weirdest one you've seen? toy car or something? MATEO: fair enough. i'll update you on the rubber duck situation once i have it figured out. MATEO: are you going to send me a pic of you too? what's your name?

#mateo + tanner #mateo threads.

JIN: I got a new phone since last time we talked. I can't help that you didn't text me until now so I could save your number. JIN: Because as a human being I sweat, sometimes, and sometimes that happens to be on my upper lip, too. Idk how you robots work.

KAITO: you could've backed it up to storage just in case something like this happened, jin. look. we can do this until our thumbs fall off...i am not letting you off the hook. KAITO: well, for one, we don't sweat. but, you know, you keep on doing your human thing. sweat away, rockstar. KAITO: anyway, moving from your...quirks, when are you free?

#kaito + jin #kaito threads.

experienceandobservation

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