— Being new in Encanto was difficult, you needed help to adjust. Carlos is dying to help you but is held back by his stained reputation. He forms an idea to disguise himself as his twin brother Camilo, what could go wrong?
genre:
— songfic & fluff
notes:
— gender-neutral reader. I do not speak fluent Spanish and all of the Spanish here is translated from google, feel free to correct me.
warning/s:
— none
a/n:
— a request from @nort0616 . I'm sorry it took so long to make this but hope ya like it!
The unfamiliar environment appeared warm and comforting at first glance, but once entering it, everything becomes overwhelming. A bunch of new but friendly faces greeted you as you stayed behind your family, you felt uncertain about temporarily moving to another town.
"¡Hola! Welcome to Encanto!"
Encanto was a variant and busy town, it continues to expand with each new family moving in. Your family decided to move to this town because it's the nearest and the nicest. You weren't keen on being introduced to a whole new place, you adjusted to change quite slowly. Though you appreciated the townsfolk for being kind and welcoming, you weren't too sure about being here. As you and your family finished settling into the new house, you had a lot of spare time on your hands.
"Why don't you go out and explore for a bit, dear?"
One of your parents suggested but you shook your head. Alas, your family gently pushed you outside your new home to try and explore Encanto. You thought your family should know you well enough that you hated being in new places especially when alone. But you make a tiny attempt by walking down the street. The locals cast you a greeting and a smile as you returned it with a sheepish wave. You stopped nearby a crowded area to rest for a bit, you picked on the chattering of the townsfolk and it was interesting.
Apparently, Encanto was no ordinary town for it was filled with magic. You were skeptical at first until a tall woman with huge muscles walked by and lifted three donkeys scattered in the area with no effort. Turns out she was part of a family called The Madrigals that helped around town with their magical gifts, some members you heard about had intriguing gifts. Although there are some members that didn't have a magical gift, the family was greatly respected and loved.
"Ay, here he comes again, el alborotador"
You raised a brow and watched a boy with auburn curls and a maroon ruana walked through the crowd. People whispered as the intimidating teen trudged by. His eyes were chilling that they made you shiver. You stuck around longer to find out his name was Carlos Madrigal. He was Camilo Madrigal's twin brother who also shared the gift of shapeshifting, but what made him different from his brother was his attitude. The locals described him as coldhearted, a prankster, and the devil in town. Because of his reputation, he was not as equally adored as the rest of his family.
Carlos goes to talk smack to other teenagers and literally threatened to punch their brains out, the sight left you petrified. So, imagine the horror when Carlos suddenly meets your eyes. His pupils were sharp and cold that you whimpered like a small animal. His gaze was stuck on you for a long moment, quickly you decided to flee. God, he was terrifying!
Meanwhile, Carlos felt curious after hearing about your recent arrival here at Encanto. He didn't expect you to be in the crowd but he expected you to cower and run away as others did. After all, having a shitty reputation gave most everyone such a scare. He frowned, despite the rumors people said, he wasn't completely coldhearted. Carlos tried to help people in Encanto from time to time it's just he struggled with how to communicate with them. At times his attempt to help comes across as a threat, unintentionally.
Even if the Madrigal failed to lend a hand to others but with you, he has this enormous urge to help. He couldn't explain why but Carlos wanted to help you get comfortable in Encanto. But he was reminded of his unappreciated presence, he needed a plan. So, being the clever one that he is, Carlos used his gift.
The next morning arrives and you were tasked to get ingredients at the market, your protests were not enough for your parents as they shoved you out of the door. You groaned and looked at the list of items that are needed. Upon getting to the market, you gulped at the massive amount of people walking and the loud sound of their voices. Minutes have passed and you haven't got one thing from the list all because you're too shy to ask around where you'll find what you needed.
You were on the verge of giving up and ditching the marketplace when you accidentally bumped into somebody, a flash of maroon to yellow caught the corner of your eye for a second until you realized who you bumped into.
"Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry!"
"¡Ay, no te preocupes! I'm fine!"
It was one of the Madrigals; Camilo Madrigal. He goes to pick up your list from the ground and hand it to you, a tiny squeak of thank you is all you managed to tell him.
"Hey, aren't you new around here?"
"Uh, yeah. My family just moved in yesterday. I'm [Name] by the way"
"Nice to meet you, [Name]. The name's Camilo Madrigal"
You pulled out your hand and Camilo went to shake it, he swiftly transforms into you as you gawked at him in awe of his impressive shape-shifting.
"Say, do you need a hand with those groceries?"
"Oh, no thanks I can handle it, Camilo"
"You sure? You seem pretty lost, I don't mind helping, since I'm good at it"
Camilo grinned. You sighed and decided to agree to let him help you navigate around the market. It was safe to say, Camilo Madrigal was great company. He was all laughs and jokes, he can make even the grumpiest man on earth crack a smile. Camilo was kindhearted too because he helped you get all the items on the list in no time.
You made your way home and thanked Camilo profusely for the hundredth time. He chuckled and said it was nothing. You were glad that you bumped into him out of all people today, it felt easier adapting to the environment.
"I'll make it up to you, Camilo. I promise"
"Sure! I was wondering if you could do me a favor?"
"Of course! What is it?"
"I'm sure you wouldn't mind being friends, right?"
Cunning, brilliant, cowardly. Carlos can think of many words to describe what he has just done. He's positive that his mother would spank him with a slipper if she found out what he's up to. Well, in his defense, he used his shapeshifting for good. That smile on your face when he assisted you in the market felt satisfying to see, Carlos felt nice that he helped someone. Although nobody knew he helped someone because he disguised himself as his twin brother Camilo, it was necessary. You wouldn't accept any help from a troublemaker such as him!
Carlos knew the moment he asked if you could be friends with him, he has to make a commitment. He's going to stick to his plan and pretend he's his brother when he's around you from now on. It wouldn't be that hard, wouldn't it?
However, as the days go by and the longer Carlos spent his time with you, he realized he just dug himself a hole. You were the most adorable person he met especially when you're shy, he had to hold back the urge to pinch your cheeks. You're often so timid but curious whenever he'd show you around Encanto. Whenever you two would hang out together, your real personality shines through and it was beautiful. With each smile you direct to him, a single laugh leaving your lips, and your eyes meeting his, he can feel himself melt.
Oh no, Carlos is falling for you.
The shapeshifter knew it was getting worse, he's still out here pretending to be someone else because he wanted to get close to you. And now, he's catching feelings for you. What has he done?
"Camiloooo?"
You call as you waved your hand in front of his face. Carlos, well, "Camilo", snaps out of his trance and grants you a quick smile. You giggle at him and continued telling him a story about your family. His eyes trailed on your face as you talked and munched on a snack. He enjoyed these moments hanging out with you.
"Do you get along with your twin well, Camilo?"
You suddenly ask him and it merely makes him lose his form. The shapeshifter smiled tightly and shrugged, honestly, he didn't know what to say to that.
"I...um, he's kind of a jerk sometimes"
"Yeah, I heard. I saw him threaten others to punch them in the face, really scary"
Ouch
"...Yup, that's...that's my brother"
"Does Carlos even try to help other people in town?"
You sounded genuinely curious but the Madrigal was sweating with each passing second. He's nervous that you're gonna find out he's a fraud and gonna ruin everything.
"He...he does but he has a hard time trying to talk to people, you know"
"I guess so, he looks pretty menacing"
"Would you accept help from him, [Name]?"
You raised a brow at his question, he quietly gulped and waited for your response. You only shrugged.
"I don't know, I don't know him well as you do"
"...I suppose so"
The rest of the day goes on awkwardly. The conversation he had with you made him overthink his choices. You found the real him scary and it brought a spike to his heart. Carlos didn't know how long he can take it, hiding and acting nothing like himself. The following day, he doesn't meet with you at your usual spot. His decisions were nagging at him and he needed to think of a way to stop this without causing any damage.
You were waiting at your and Camilo's favorite place to meet to realize he did not come, perhaps he was busy. So with that, left to have a short walk. On your way to the main square, you do see Camilo playing with the children. A fond smile makes its way to your lips as you crept up behind him.
"Hey 'Milo! Why didn't you meet up earlier?"
You startled him to the point he shapeshifts into several people at once, you chuckled when he turned around and gave you a bashful look. The children began teasing him.
"Oh, hi. Sorry, but do I know you?"
"Haha very funny 'Milo"
Camilo frowns and tilts his head, a genuine look of confusion fills his face. The expression causes your stomach to drop to the ground. You stammered pointing a finger at him and at yourself, an embarrassed flush decorates your cheeks. Eventually, you managed to explain to him the situation only to find out that the Camilo you have been previously hanging out with was actually Carlos.
"I...um, huh?"
"Yeah, that's definitely mi hermano, it was nice meeting you though [Name]"
You were politely dismissed by the real Camilo as you make your way home with the staggering realization. You sat with your puzzling thoughts for a while until there was a knock on the door, you go answered it and were greeted by Camilo but you know it wasn't truly him.
"Hey"
"Hi"
"Can I come in?"
He asks and you paused with hesitance, but ultimately you let him inside the house. You stood a few feet from him facing away. Carlos, still disguised as his brother, can tell something was off as it fills him with dread.
"...[Name], what's wrong?"
"I...I know who you really are, Camilo"
"¿Q-qué?"
"You're....you're not Camilo, I met the real one on the town square"
"...Oh"
You finally face him and gained the courage to walk towards him, you exhaled through your nose and sent him a serious look. Carlos sweats.
"I know that's you, Carlos"
"Look [Name]..."
"Please change back"
At first, he refused to change back to himself but when Carlos saw your face with a small look of betrayal, he fully breaks. You watched with a gasp as he slowly changed back to himself. He was a bit taller than Camilo, he opens his eyes to meet yours, and your jaw almost drops to the floor. He was handsome. Carlos, now presenting as himself, shudders.
"[Name]...I'm sorry"
"...Carlos why?"
The shapeshifter bites his lip, blatantly speechless. He couldn't find the words or perfect explanation for his actions. However, he noticed your eyes were filled with curiosity instead of disgust. Carlos sighs.
"Once a lass met a lad. "You're a gentle one," said she"
"In my heart, I'd be glad. If you loved me for me"
The sound of Carlos singing immediately draws you close to him, the Madrigal deeply inhales as he steers his eyes away out of shyness.
"You say your love is true. And I hope that it will be"
"I'd be sure if I knew that you loved me for me"
Your melodic voice causes his eyes to snap towards you, a gentle smile graces your lips and his stomach does a flip. Carlos continues to sing.
"Could I be the one you're seeking? Will I be the one you choose?"
"Can you tell my heart is speaking? My eyes will give you clues"
"What you see may be deceiving, truth lies within the skin"
You decide to connect his lines, you lead him outside to the backyard where a few flowers bloomed under the sunlight. The shapeshifter begins to smile.
"Hope will blossom by believing"
"The heart that lies within"
"The heart that lies within"
Carlos' skin tingles at the sound of his and your voices combined in melody, he notices your eyes softening and full of understanding. You slowly took his hands into your own.
"I'll be yours together we shall always be as one. If you love me for me"
You sang, the corners of your lips curving upward gently. The glimmering hope in Carlos' orbs makes your heart skip a beat, especially when he interlocks his fingers with yours. He walks with you on the grass.
"Who can say where we'll go"
"I'll be yours"
"Who can promise what will be"
"Together we shall always"
"But I'll stay by your side"
"Be as one"
Both of you sang together in harmony. Carlos earns the courage to pull you close to him and grab you by the waist, your heart leaps out of your throat. Your eyes meet once again, a lovely blush makes its way across your cheeks.
"If you love me for me"
"If you love me for me"
"If you love me for me"
"If you love me for me"
The song finishes at the same moment as the sun sinks from the sky, and you watched in awe at the sunset. You sigh in contentment you turn to see Carlos already gawking at you, a grin rises on your lips.
"It's breathtaking isn't it?"
"Are you staring at the sunset or at me, Carlos?"
"Okay, you got me there"
This gets a laugh out of you and Carlos sits there with his heartstrings tugged by it. You take a good look at the shapeshifter and your smile, you softly tucked a strand out of his face and he freezes.
"You know, it's nice seeing the real you, Carlos"
"...Really?"
"Yeah, I should've known you weren't as bad as what people would say"
— your last Christmas wasn't the best after discovering your boyfriend cheated on you. But this Christmas, you see Carlos but you won't let him fool you again. This year, to save yourself from tears, you're giving your heart to someone special instead.
genre:
— angst & modern-au
notes:
— gender-neutral reader. I do not speak fluent Spanish and all of the Spanish here is translated from google, feel free to correct me if I got something wrong.
warning/s:
— mild cussing/foul language
a/n:
— a fanfic idea from the lovely @try-cry-why-try! I just had to write it so here you guys go, enjoy the Christmas angst with Carlos :,)
The cold air kissed your face, delivering goosebumps all over your body. You shivered, pulling the layers of thick clothing tighter around you as you exhaled. The evening brought a breeze and a trickle of snow falling gracefully from the sky. You frowed as you continued walking down the pavement, you really hoped you won't catch a cold or hyperthermia.
You arrive to your destination. With a sigh, you open the door and entered an enormous house. You where greeted with music blaring through the bass-boosted speakers, the smell of drinks in the air (mainly alcohol), and the sight of a tightly-packed crowd laughing and exchanging words.
At least, it was warmer inside. So, you slowly got rid of the scarf around your neck and your beanie. You could use a warm drink. You squeezed through a few people, muttering a quick apology. You managed to grab a red cup and filled it with your preferred drink, you sighed in contentment as you took your first sip. Your eyes scan the people present at the party this Christmas eve. Nothing seem to grab your interest until you caught a flash of maroon from the corner of your eye.
You froze, lowering your cup and gazed at this guy entering the crowd with an all too familiar maroon sweater. Your throat grew tight as you gulped. You recognized who he was, you hated that you knew who he was. But you regained your posture and set your distance away from this guy.
It seemed like tonight was going to be hellish, because you've been keeping your distance from him yet he still catches your eye. You bite back a groan. You thought it was a great idea to take a few cautious steps closer to him. Does he recognize you? Well, it's been a year and it doesn't surprise you.
"Merry Christmas"
You wrapped it up and sent it with a note saying "I love you", you meant it. When you come to give the present, you realized what a fool you've been. There he was, your boyfriend, making out with another person under a mistletoe on Christmas day. Your heart shattered on the spot by the scene, when you were caught witnessing the act of cheating. Your beloved boyfriend thought of kissing you on that moment after to make it up to you and you gave in. But you knew he fooled you again.
You frowned, your mood turning sour by the memory. What an inconvenience to encounter your ex-boyfriend here out of all places. As you downed your drink and turned to leave, you felt a hand on your shoulder.
"[Name]?"
Oh for christ's sake!
You whipped your head to meet face-to-face with your ex. You feigned to not recognize him but when he smiled, you failed.
"...Carlos?"
"Hey! It's you"
Carlos said. You loathed how welcoming his voice sounded. He tried to give you a hug but you managed to get away before he pulled you in. A fake smile appeared on your lips, you decided to play as a civilized stranger.
"Yeah"
"So...how are you?"
He asked. You wanted to smack him on the head for asking that, did he forget that he ruined your life when he cheated on you? Perhaps he developed amnesia that's why he's acting so merry to see you, which is less likely.
"I'm fine, I was about to go"
"Oh...I guess I'll see you around, [Name]"
Carlos watches as you hurriedly pushed through the crowd. He waited to see you walk out the door but you didn't, he furrowed his eyebrows and watched you pour a drink. Meanwhile, you stayed in the crowded room, you see him chatting with his friends that had tired eyes. You angrily took a sip on your drink, you hated his audacity to strike a conversation with you after the shit he pulled last Christmas.
"Oh come on it was harmless, [Name]!"
Carlos rolled his eyes, chasing after you on the snowy pavement. Your warm tears fell freely down your cheeks as you gritted your teeth. This was getting tiring. Why does he keep denying to be unfaithful to you when you literally saw him making out with somebody else. Carlos groaned and grabbed your hand to stop you from getting away.
"[Name]—"
"What the hell is wrong with you, Carlos?!"
He frowns at you when you shouted at him. The way he seems unaffected to the sight of you crying brought a pang of pain to your chest.
"Ugh, when will you take a joke, [Name]?"
"A joke?! Do you think this is all just a joke to you, Carlos?! Do you expect me to laugh after seeing you kiss somebody else under the mistletoe?!"
You screamed at him. Carlos shuts his mouth, he bites his lip and looks away but you can see the shame in his eyes.
"I can't do this with you anymore, Carlos"
"¿Qué?"
"We're over! Here's your stupid present, Merry Christmas!"
You shoved the present you made for him bitterly and walked away. Carlos stays rooted under a lampost letting the snow get into his hair. He stares at you and at the present and scoffs. Looking back at him, you can see how he's colder than the snowy weather.
You scoffed, trying to hide the hurt. You were hiding from Carlos and his soul of ice. It's unbelievable because how can he still be so insensitive after all this time. Carlos spots your glaring on the other side of the room and it irks him. He decides to confront you about it. So, he approached you, drags you by the arm, and takes you outside. You shouted at him to stop. He stops and lets you go as you shivered at the sudden temperature change.
"What the fuck was that for?!"
"Wow, you're still bitter, you never changed, [Name]"
"I can say the same thing for you, bastard"
You said, it brought a sting to Carlos but he brushes it off with a laugh. He smirked and walked over to you.
"Saw you glaring at me, it seemed like you never found happiness after last Christmas"
"Believe me, I'm happier than ever when we broke up, jackass"
"So, why the staring, cariño?"
Carlos asked, genuinely. Not that he'll admit but he liked it, he'd be lying if he said he wasn't sneaking glances at you. This Christmas eve was not turning out well now that you're fighting off the tears and surpressing the pain of the truth. The truth is, you still loved him. Carlos was an asshole yet you still had feelings for him, your throat burned at the thought.
When he saw the glassy look in your eyes, his smug expression dropped. He remembered that look on your face last Christmas when you ended your relationship with him.
"My god, I thought you were someone to rely on, Carlos"
You started, your voice shaking. You began to sniff until it was apparent that you were upset and it was all because of Carlos. He takes everything in, slowly realizing his mistake.
"Me? I guess I was a shoulder to cry on"
You laughed but eventually you broke down in front of him. Carlos can feel his heart clench. He fucked up again, didn't he? He's the reason why you're crying again. Carlos hesitantly moves closer to you and gently wrapped his arms around you. God, when was the last time he hugged you?
Carlos holds you during the snowfall as you cried. What almost got Carlos on the brink of tears is when you placed a hand on his chest and pushed him away. He swallowed hard and saw you shake your head at him.
"No, not ever and never again, Carlos"
"I...I'm sorry, [Name]"
You looked at him. Carlos knew it was a horrible time to apologize but it was the only think he can think of in hopes to salvage what he has caused. You wiped your tears away.
"Last Christmas, I gave you my heart..."
"...But the very next day, I gave it away"
He finished, he looked you in the eye and you realized the tears threatening to fall. You held your head high, ready to leave this all behind you.
"This year, to save me from tears, I'll give it to someone special"
You said. A part of Carlos wished that special someone was him, but he knew better than to hope he had a chance with you so he nods in defeat.
"...But I'm not that special someone"
"No, Carlos"
You shake your head at him. As his most painful goodbye, he reaches to hold your hand. Carlos sniffs.
"I hope they don't make your Christmas shitty"
It sounded like a joke so you smiled and slowly pulled your hand away from Carlos' touch. He watch hopelessly as you walked away into the night. He stands shivering on Christmas eve, a few tears escaping from his eyes. He wipes away any stray tears and chuckled at his own misfortune. He shouldn't have given your heart away last Christmas.
I am finding that your little pfp-picture, whoever it be of, is really unique and spectacular to look at. If it ever gets changed, I understand but if it doesn’t, it will be easier to find stuff like stories or opinions on other folk’s storytelling or storyline. You have yourself a good evening or maybe it’s morning for you. It’s march and I’m ready for flowers and spring and warmer weather. I keep wearing sweatshirt jackets with a shirt underneath it, and long pants just to stay all bundled up and cozy. And my pets get the luxury of the heater all of a sudden just now. So, we’re always constantly fighting over who gets the chair and who gets the floor full of cat litter & dust. I’m hoping it won’t be me. Peace out!
Thanks i love my pfp for this blog! i dont know at at the time it felt the most "Carlos" pic to me that didnt look goofy but gave a sort of vibe yk?
I probably wont be changing it or anything cause ive honestly died a lot of this fandom but i still do enjoy it ocasionally.
Ive had a great day and I hope you have too!
hoenstly im just ready for my allergies to stop going crazy with this weather lol
Hey! Just wanna check in on ya. I know this seems random and I did just follow today but I did follow you before on my old account (now deleted)! I think I do know you from a YouTube channel (won't say the name for the sake of your privacy :) and comfortability) I hope you're doing alright!!
*P.S. By chance do you have another blog I can follow?*
hey no its fine! thanks for not saying the name i really appreciate it!
im doing alright actually!! my life has changed a lot since i had my channel and its been going pretty good so far
Sorry about the sick-ask question. Can’t remember what it was actually about but apologies again. Be wary of the drama going on but you seem like someone who I can trust. I just don’t like anything anonymous lately. It’s been giving me so much anxiety and trouble. Sorry for rambling. The stories bring me joy!
oh no im so sorry that was my fault. I was doing a bunch of funny ask with my friend and it got buried under there
im glad they bring you joy! honestly we all need some stories to escape the real world sometimes
One of the reasons I got to know about Carlos was through listening to the group of, “Arctic-Monkeys.” It’s nice to know that your writing works really well with that topic. So, uh—thanks for getting me into knowing about that singing group. “Crying-lightning” is definitely a personal fav and it seems right up Carlos’s alley!
omg no way Carlos is how I found Arctic monkeys!!! I love that band now btw. Crying lightning is so up his lane!! So is do me a favor as well (pretty sure there’s a fic of it.
Hi. This will seem silly but your writings actually are what got me into thinking that the concept of Camilo, that is Carlos—your creativity is what got me into him. I just really like your stuff. I haven’t really been much into him as much but I just like how you write him. Sorry for rambling your ears off. You’re just so inspiring, and he is super cool. Even when he tries to act tough!
holy shit i didnt think people still cared a bout this account. Honestly I forgot about it myself a bit with all thet shit thats been going on recently. thank you thank you thank youuuuuu you have no idea this means. I always find it a bit funny people actually say im decent at making stories and writing when my passion is more science. im so glad you like him and my version i made taking inspiration from others!! please go look at @carlosfruitsnacks their my biggest inspo ever and i miss them dearly!!!
hiii!! if requests are open could i get a carlos madrigal and reader fic where someone insults camilo and he gets into a fight with them(wins ofc). Pepa is lecturing him and asks him why he beat someone up agAiN but he doesnt reply but reader (who was there when the fight started) tells her the reason and everyones like ooh you protected your brother knew you love us🥰. Maybe she helps him clean his wounds or sumn and they confess at the end?? Thanks!!
How he loves – carlos m.
pairing: carlos madrigal x female reader
genre: fluff
summary: when it comes to violence in the community, carlos madrigal is always the first name to put the blame on. the boy was a troublemaker, often found in the worst situations possible. one day it’s happened again but for this time, you never expected the reason why until you confronted him.
warning: mentions of blood and violence and injuries
If someone were to ask you who Carlos Madrigal is, immediately your answer would tick them off. It's different. Among the numerous whispers of the town stood the one unanimous description of Carlos being the pessimistic and coldest member of the Madrigal family. To the outside, that's how people perceive him. With his half-lidded blank face, everyone saw him as intimidating and mysterious. But for someone who has been his long-time friend ever since, you saw him differently.
He wasn't cold, he just doesn't speak. He wasn't mean, he just doesn't point out or compliment someone else. Albeit it took you by surprise that he somehow managed to tolerate you being with him almost all the time, you wouldn't ask for anything else. You knew Carlos had a heart of gold because even if he barely shows it, you can tell through the lining of the gestures he tries to do in the most often weird and unexpected ways, such as being overly protective for others in an aggressive manner.
That's just how he loves.
But Carlos was rather, violent when it comes to that matter. It only contributed to the 'cold persona' everyone put on him due to that. It was something he couldn't help, he tends to show his emotions in a tactile manner and when it comes to his negative emotions, it wouldn't end well.
One fine day you were with Carlos outside on the streets, having no pressure but to just stroll around and catch up with conversation. Carlos had his hands inside the pockets under his ruana while you were strolling beside him, hands on your back as you stared at your footsteps while walking through. Two of you were aimlessly walking around town listening to the loud chatters of the busy village.
You two stopped to your tracks to see Camilo, Carlos' twin brother. He was walking alone in the opposite direction and you instantly ran to him.
"Camilo!!" You exclaimed happily. Camilo's face turned into a rather dull smile at the sight of you and Carlos.
"Hey!" He greeted back. As a force of habit, you playfully shoved him lightly but you were taken aback when he suddenly winced when your hand made contact to his shoulder. Your eyes slightly widened at his reaction.
"What were you doing?" Carlos asked when he eventually approaches two of you.
"Oh, nothing. I just-", Camilo stuttered. "- I just need to uhh- do errands! Be right back!"
Camilo suddenly put a hand on top of his shoulder as he ran away to the opposite direction, leaving you and Carlos baffled at his weird behavior. For sure, he was an odd one but this time something felt off.
"Am I the only one who thinks something is wrong?" You turned to Carlos. He slightly squinted his eyes at you and pursed his lips.
"He seemed in pain when you punched him. Maybe he got injured?"
"Yeah but you know him. If he gets injured it's usually at something dumb and we'd be the first ones he would tell about it"
Carlos hummed as he looked deep in thought. You were right. Camilo would get hurt over something so dumb that he ends up laughing about it. But this time, he seemed injured at a place he didn't want to talk about, which was the only reason two of you found odd. The fact that he even ran away from the two of you as if he's avoiding further questioning only fueled the confusion on you and Carlos. He took his hands out of his pockets and patted his maroon ruana when he glanced at the direction Camilo just came from.
"Maybe something happened..."
"Should we go check it out, Carlos?"
"You ask me as if there's anything else interesting that we could do."
—
So, there you two were, re-tracing Camilo's steps like the nosy friend and brother you and Carlos are. He only trailed by, seeming like he had no interest but just wanted to join you. You two hid in the small alley behind the large houses the moment you heard whispering from a group of people. Instinctively, you pulled Carlos by his hand and brought him closer to you to squat down and hide. He widened his eyes when he almost stumbled to you. He got off from his trance and followed your trail of sight.
"Is that- "
"Tiago and his minions" Carlos muttered, gritting his teeth as he did so.
If you think Carlos was the worst, then Tiago was levels deep below hell. He was a menace in a bad way, he and his friends always being together and causing trouble for the entire village. Carlos hated him in a bad extent, most often the two of them would be found fighting each other if given the chance to be in the same place with one another. This time, you expected it to happen again if things escalate for the worst. You and Carlos eavesdropped on their conversations.
"Dude, Camilo was a weakling. He couldn't even hit me back"
"No way! You thought he'd be like Carlos but it's not the case apparently"
"Yeah, dude's all rainbows and butterflies to handle the real world. Beat him up to a pulp he almost cried like a coward."
You gasp as a hand landed on your mouth. A turn of your head and you saw Carlos with the worst look you wanted him to have. His eyes held piercing glares at Tiago's direction, his lips almost bleeding from the intensity of him biting it. His hands that held yours were clenched tightly, the other was already fisted veins were popping out from the back of his palm.
"Carlos" You whispered. It didn't make him look at you, he was more focused on the sharp look he was giving to Camilo's group of bullies.
Carlos suddenly stood up, almost blowing his cover. You immediately pulled him back but he resisted.
"What the hell are you doing?"
"Proving them wrong."
You sat back down stunned even though you expected this to happen. With a swift turn, Carlos shapeshifted into Camilo and ran to the bullies, immediately sending a harsh punch at Tiago making him stumble. It took them by surprise when 'Camilo' suddenly charged at them but nevertheless returned the favor by punching him back, Carlos easily blocked it with ease using his forearm as he sent another punch to Tiago's friends at the back where they least expected it. Unfortunately, since Carlos was overpowered by two more men, one got a punch on him making him stumble and unconsciously shapeshift back to himself.
"We knew it's you, Carlos. Your brother is too much of a wuss to- " Carlos interrupted one of Tiago's friends by sending him another jab to the face. He yelled in anger as he kept throwing fists all over the place, letting his emotions bring out the worst of him.
You couldn't handle it anymore. You wanted to stop the fight but there was no way you could stop a raging Carlos. If you were to stop them, you would probably get one of their punches too. Despite Carlos being one against three, he was beating them up with ease. Tiago and his friends were no match for him, Carlos was easily throwing punches and kicks here and there that it almost made you feel bad for the bullies.
It went on for longer and it started to made you worried. Carlos was winning. yes, but this fight was one of the worst he's ever been in. Before you were able to fully think of a plan to stop them, Luisa comes in to the mess and all the boys freeze at her. Dolores must have heard it all unravel and called for Luisa. With ease she easily slid through and grabbed Carlos who looked too victorious to complain. She gave the other boys a piercing glare and immediately they ran away to the other direction.
Luisa saw you as she carried Carlos and pointed her lips to the Casita, telling you to catch up with them. You trailed along in silence, seeing that Luisa (and most likely the rest of the Madrigals) is disappointed yet again to see Carlos in another fight.
—
Like clockwork, thunder immediately strikes the moment the door to Casita opens. Luisa walks in beside you and sets Carlos down in front of his mother, Pepa who already has her arm crossed and eyebrows furrowed. Her face had yet another annoyed expression that further fueled the dark clouds gathering above.
"What did I tell you about being violent again?" She asked sternly.
Carlos sighed with a dour expression. "Not do it"
"And what happened this time?"
"I did it."
You held back a chortle and turned around to face the other way as you tried not to laugh. Carlos was yet again being a pain in the ass at the wrong place and you just happened to get caught off-guard. In an attempt to cover your laughter, you coughed nervously with wide eyes and scrambled away to the kitchen to get a snack but mainly to leave the two to further argue with each other and for the rest of the family to see.
The distance between the common area and the kitchen wasn't that long so you still snooped in on their business like the nosy friend you are. You saw Camilo soon approach them, now all healed and okay but had a look of shock when he saw his twin brother in a far worse state. For some reason Carlos refused to eat an arepa to heal himself, only taking the blow as of now to not let Pepa get even more enraged. She was going on and off about what she had told him before and obviously Carlos wasn't listening. He simply nodded and blinked his eyes repeatedly which made her even more furious.
"Can you at least give us the reason why you went out to beat people again?" Pepa yelled, having enough of Carlos' attitude. Carlos only stared at the floor, probably thinking of an excuse.
"People were bullying Camilo" You said all the way from the other side. Everyone in the room turned their eyes at you, even Carlos himself. You leaned on to the wall in a nonchalant manner and took a bite of your arepa. "It was Tiago and his minions, Carlos beat them up like a badass."
You stared blankly at Carlos, slightly raising an eyebrow to further provoke him but his lips stay pursed shut. Pepa on the other hand, toned down the arch on her eyebrows and gradually had a soft look to her face. It was an emotion you couldn't decipher, of course. Mothers would always love seeing their children being protective of each other— but not like this.
"You protected me?" Camilo asked him in a teasing manner. Now that he's all healed and well, he was now the one to have a smug look in his face. "You totally love me, hermano"
"Shut up" Carlos retorted. It only left you half-laughing at the two bantering. It went back-and-forth until they got interrupted by Pepa yet again.
"Can't help it, my twin brother is protective for me!"
"I'll beat you up like they did"
"Aw, is that how you love?"
"Fu-"
"Stop it you two! Carlos, I'll deal with you later!" She yelled, dusting her skirt and swatting away the dark cloud at her seeming as if she had to leave to do something else. The dark clouds slowly became lighter and the chatter slowly died down as Pepa murmured lectures on her children while also fanning herself to calm down. It was a sight worth to see. But the yell of your name caught you in a trance midway through your bite of the arepa.
"Y/N!"
"Yeah?" You asked her, slowly walking towards her direction. Pepa eyed you sternly before pointing her lips back to Carlos.
"Can you clean him up? He refused to be healed and I thought that he would listen to you"
You rolled your eyes when Carlos scoffs at you.
"I'll make sure he does"
—
Soon enough after the stress and dark clouds from Pepa has subsided, Carlos led you to his room, unwillingly. He just didn't want another thunderstorm therefore he complied with his mother's requests and braced himself for your part of the scolding. He expected yet another lecture from you, but it didn't happen. Carlos instead wondered why you were offering him your half-eaten arepa.
"Just take a bite." You calmly said to him, scooting closer to the edge of the bed so sit beside him.
"No"
"Do it or I'll press the crap out of your wounds"
"Fine"
Carlos sighed in defeat. He only stared at you, waiting for something to happen. It was at this moment you knew he was gonna be petty from the smug look in his face.
"I'm not feeding you"
"Then I'm not eating" Carlos nonchalantly fought back.
He was starting to get on your nerves and Carlos knew how pissed you would be if he manages to succeed. But you didn't let it happen. Looking at his broken nose and scratches all over the place, you decided to let him win for this time. The moment you held your arepa towards him, Carlos grinned cockily and took a bite from the snack. Julieta's magic gift healed his wounds instantly, but it doesn't fix the blood stains all over him. When Carlos was busy looking at his wounds slowly healing, you stood up to get a moist towel.
"Why aren't you getting mad at me?" You heard Carlos ask from behind you. By assumption you could tell he was bored after his injuries faded.
"Should I be?" You asked in return, still wringing the towel from the table as to not make it too wet that it'll spread more stains on the fabric.
Silence. You turned your head to the back to take a glance at Carlos. He had his head down, the mess of his curls covering his face making you unable to read his expression. With a soft sigh you brought the cloth with you as you went back to sit beside him again.
"You know-" You trailed off to catch his attention, but to no avail. Carlos didn't budge to even look at you. An idea suddenly popped into your head as you slithered your hand under his arm and took him by the hand, leading Carlos' hand to your lap as you started wiping the blood smeared all over it.
"-I admired how you took the blame and protected Camilo." You continued to speak and then paused to look at his face. Carlos was staring at you with a blank look, his eyes fixated on yours. It took a bit of time for you to let out a small smile on your face and your heart fluttered when you saw a little bit of spark that brightened his eyes as his lips slowly curled up. You looked away to continue wiping his arm and cutting the silence.
"It's nice to see that there's still love in you somewhere despite you showing it in a violent way. But they don't get it, that's just how you love."
You heard Carlos sigh from beside.
"There has been in a while. Much more love than just with my family, I-" He sighed yet again, taking a deep inhale to control his breathing. "- just don't know how to show it"
"What do you mean 'more love'?" You asked him.
You looked up to Carlos, confused on what he was trying to say. Carlos blinked hard before he took yet another sigh and motioned his lips to point at his hand resting atop yours. You followed his trail of sight and the next move he did brought you out of breath. Carlos slowly interlocked his fingers with yours, holding it tight as if he were afraid to let go. Your heart paced rapidly and the heat travelling up to your cheeks only made it hard for you to regain your composure right beside him.
"I didn't beat them up that hard just because of Camilo. Tiago also talked bad crap about you to his friends. I know it wasn't supposed to end that badly but I just couldn't stand when people like them get away with ease as if they did nothing wrong"
You gasped and gripped his hand tighter, your fingers lightly tapping the calloused and bruised skin of Carlos' knuckles. He no longer winced since it was healed, but it would take time for the scarring to fade completely. At this time, you were the one that went silent, waiting for Carlos to continue.
"I'm sorry. Shouldn't have stressed you and mami this much" He muttered softly which grabbed your attention. You shook your head indicating a 'no' and let go of his hand to face him better. You moved your legs from the edge of the bed and brought it up, sitting cross legged across him.
"You don't have to be sorry for protecting the ones you love, Carlos. It's nature for you to do so. The others may see you as mean and violent but to me, you're much more than that. That's just how you love."
Carlos took in the sight of you with a frown in his face. After you flipped the towel to a cleaner side, you slowly brought it up to his face to clean the blood stains all over him. You gently landed your palm on his forehead and combed away the curls that covered it. From his forehead to the blood pooling in his cupid's bow, you made sure to wipe it all clean to admire his features better.
"You're too good for me, Y/N. I don't deserve you"
"Shut up you idiot. You're fine just the way you are-" You paused. "- but maybe, we can work on fixing your rough love language for a little bit"
You joked with a small smile that made Carlos chuckle. He brought his hand up to hold your wrist while you were cleaning his face and stared deep into your eyes, taking you aback. You playfully glared at his cunning nature, making him break eye contact and let out a light hearty laugh that made your stomach do somersaults from the raspy- tone of his voice.
While still wiping away the mess in his face, you hummed a small song as a force of habit and it made Carlos' heart flutter. You had a soothing voice and it did calm him down for a little bit, until he remembered something. You looked up to him and the sudden frown on Carlos' face made your eyes go soft. You two knew how much of a challenge this could be as soon as it sunk in. Carlos wasn't good in romance and you can tell from being his long time friend. But maybe, being his friend also brought you chances on how to love him better.
To reassure the guy, you cupped his face and brought him closer to you. Your thumbs lightly brushed against his freckled cheeks that were now clear of blood stains. With a swift move you lightly kissed the tip of his nose to seal a promise. A promise that may take a while, but a promise that you would be willing to practice on until your last breath in time.
"Be with me and I'll teach you how I love, Carlos."
- inspired by @desichameleon 's hcs of carlos' powers! (lmk if you dont want to be tagged^^)
- warnings! angst if you squint, reader mental breakdown, (just briefly, not in depth) fluff!
☆ note: carlos has shape shifting into animals as a gift
The midnight feline wandered the streets of Encanto, the town should be thankful it was broad daylight or else the cat would blend in with the night. For this feline isn't what everyone deemed it to be, this feline is Carlos Madrigal and he is currently scouting the area, plotting and awaiting victims to get stuck in his trap.
His padded paws stepped carefully atop a ledge, he sat down on it and watched as a man fell face flat into a pie. His lips curled into a smile, with a satisfied meow he jumped off from the ledge and head to the bakery.
Once again, he hopped on his hind leg to reach the window's ledge, he peeked inside to see you handling customers for the day. He felt his tail wagged slightly when your eyes glanced at him before you approached to the window. From there, you recognise your feline friend and went out to meet him. In your hand was white bread, just has Carlos had hoped. It's becoming a routine for him to approach your bakery and for you to happily feed him bread. Carlos never revealed himself in his human form of course, he maintained his cat form when he's around you. If anything, Carlos was sure you never knew of his little kitty secret.
As you tore off bite sized pieces of bread, Carlos slightly stood on his hind legs to reach the piece of bread that you've torn.
"I think you've visited me more than my friends," you said, patting his head.
'Good,' he meowed.
You giggled, "You only came here for the bread aren't you? Well, doesn't matter, you're my favourite company,"
He didn't have to sound anything to show how happy he was, his tail was making it obvious that he liked being your favourite visitor. The brief time passed as per usual, you sitting on the ledge as well and him leaning on your side. As always, you would talk to him about recent news that was being passed around and he would curl up next to you and nod his head as a respond. He comforts you and he was more than happy to do so.
The sound of the bakery's bell being rung as a man entered the door disrupted your rambles. You rose to your feet and scratch the back of Carlos' ears before entering the bakery again to attend the new customer.
Satisfied of the usual session he had with you as a cat, he jumped off and walked towards somewhere hidden to morph back into a human. The brown curls on his head bounced as he grew back to his actual height, he ruffled his hair into covering one of his eyes before tucking the both of his hand into his pockets and moved towards the bakery.
He pushed the door and the bell rung. It seemed like you were distracted by something since you clearly jolted in surprised when he entered. After getting back your composure, you smiled at him and gave a small wave. Carlos looked away to hide his own grin, only nodding to greet you. He placed a few buttery and sweet bread in a paperbag from the shelves and moved them in front of you. On usual cases, he would steal but from you, he could never. That's why he's taking out his own money after you told him the price.
"Carlos right?"
His ears perked up at the sound of his name in your voice, "Yes, do you have a problem?" he asked, forcing out a harsh tone that he'd always use to others.
You only grew brighter at his question, you shook your head, "No, not at all. Just wanted to say you look great today, enjoy the bread and come more often," you sent a wink at him.
His heart nearly stopped and his face flushed, he grabbed the bread he had bought and gave you a soft smile that anyone would definitely kill to see if they knew Carlos could smile in such way, "Maybe I should,"
He left the bakery, leaving your own heartbeat to pick up it's pace. Aren't you excited to see him more often.
It's been a few weeks and you haven't seen your feline friend often anymore. You were worried about the cat and you were hoping to introduce the cat to Carlos since he was able to shift into animals. You've seen the cat wandering in the streets before but it would usually be napping on top roofs and you didn't want to disrupt a cat nap.
However, Carlos had now replaced the usual time the cat would visit. He would even sometimes help around the bakery and you've gotten to know about him more. At least, more than the whole implied negative views the people has on him. But you knew he wasnt actually mean, you've seen him helped a few people around secretly. He only helped behind the shadows, he probably thought he was being stealthy but you had admired him from afar for quite a while so it was easy for you to spot him.
Today was no different, behind the cashier you put your elbows on the table and sat your chin on your palm, your hands cupping the side of your cheeks as you stared at the window the cat would usually sat and waited until you notice it.
You were so distracted by the window that you didn't realise a certain presence wearing a red ruana leaned to the side of your ear.
"Boo," he whispered.
You jumped in surprised, holding back a shriek that could've possibly contained swear words.
"Miércoles, Carlos. You scared me," you stood straight and dusted off your clothes.
Carlos chuckled, "Lo siento, didn't mean to. What were you staring at princesa/principe?" he turned his head towards the familiar window.
You did the same, with worry in your eyes, "It's nothing, there's just a cat that would usually visit me and sit at that window right there. But it's been awhile since it came here, it was my favourite customer,"
He raised an eyebrow as you zoned out staring at the window again. Did you like his cat form that much?
"Maybe it finally found it's forever home?" he carefully suggested.
You shrugged, "I hope that's the case," your shoulders slumped, "It could've still visit me from time to time,"
Oh, crap you really do love his cat form.
"Aye, don't be like that. Im sure he's fine," he patted your shoulder.
You groaned in defeat, "And I wanted you to meet it as well,"
'that would be impossible,' Carlos thought and at the same time he was considering to tell you. No, he can't, you might think he was trying to fool you, a classic Carlos prank. Darn sometimes he wished he didnt have such a reputation. Although, the miserable pout on your face looked cute, he wondered what it would taste like if he kissed it away.
"Eyes up here, gatito,"
He froze, one because you caught him and two you called him kitty. After processing the nickname, his face darkened, he looked away, covering bottom half of his face with his hand and rolled his eyes, "Shut up,"
You giggled, "Okay, now help me. My actual favourite customer might not be here but you're good enough,"
He pursed his lips, "Aw, am I not your favourite?" he faked a slight high pitched voice.
"No," you said with a smile. Carlos has never wanted to smack you more than right now.
"Come on, help me arrange this," you pull out a crate filled with freshly baked bread on the table. Carlos didn't say anything and complied and so the day continued normally with chatters here and there and silently enjoying the quality time working together.
Carlos pushed the door to your bakery as usual but it wouldnt budge. Confused, he moved to window and squinted through the window gaps. The bakery was empty and dark, there were small particles floating through the room.
"Oh hermano!", Camilo smacked his brother's back making Carlos turned with a raised fist. After realising it was Camilo, he lowered his fist down and Camilo let out a sigh of relief.
"If you do that again tonto, I'll actually hit you,"
Camilo raised both of his hand up in mocked defeat "Sorry, forgot how jumpy you are," Carlos' face morphed into a scowl and Camilo had to stifle a laughter, "i apologise, Carlos cálmate. Were you looking for yn?" he looked passed Carlos to see the closed bakery behind him.
"How the hell did you- No, I meant no. Im not," Carlos slightly tug at his ruana for a brief moment.
Camilo shook his head, "You pulled your ruana, you're lying and don't act as if I've never seen you coming over to the bakery on a daily basis,"
Carlos pursed his lips into a thin line and sighed, reluctantly giving up, "Do you know where they are or something?"
Camilo grinned, "They went in the forest nearby casita, they probably aren't too far. I saw them running head first just as I stepped out of the house,"
Carlos didn't reply, he turned on his heel and started sprinting back towards casita.
Looking for you wasn't hard, he'd seen you in the forest before in his cat form. It was before he started visiting you daily, the time when he was first bewitched by you. You weren't doing anything particular that time, you were just sitting and letting the breeze hit your skin.
Unfortunately this wasn't like last time; Carlos peeked from behind a tree, you had your face in your hands, sobbing and trembling.
Carlos looked around him before taking off his ruana and folded it into the most portable size a cat could balance on his back. He placed the neatly folded ruana on the ground and shifted into cat, he slid his furry body underneath the ruana to have it sit on his back. After making sure the fabric won't fall off, his paws went on the move. Every step he took was careful, when he got near you, he meowed.
You lifted your head upon hearing the familiar noise, you chuckled when you noticed the black kitty, "Haven't seen you in a while," you smiled, petting it's head.
Carlos gently bumps his nose on the fabric in an attempt to push it. You became aware of the red fabric the cat brought, you took it and unveiled the ruana in front of you. The first thing you perceived was the pattern, you knew it belongs to Carlos' at once.
Carlos watched you sat in silence, examining the ruana. He honestly thought you figured him out, that he was the cat all along but it seems all the crying knocked out some sense from you.
"Did you steal this from Carlos?" you smirked at the cat.
The cat stayed silent whilst Carlos was scoffing in his head. You put on the ruana and grinned at how warm his scent was. Carlos internally sighed in relief; he rubbed his head on your arm, making you want to pick him up and just smother the cat in kisses as a thank you
So you did and Carlos didn't think you'd pick him up since you never had done so. You gently held him by the shoulder and cat Carlos was too taken aback to wiggle his way out. But nothing will ever compare to when you pressed your lips all over his face; his nose, his cheek, all of that in his cat form.
The cat let out a meow in distressed because he knows if you keep this up, he won't be able to hide his heart who's basically sprinting out of his body. You pulled away when the cat meowed and raised an eyebrow.
Carlos thought you had stopped but was proven wrong when you kissed his forehead for more longer than he had like.
That was the last straw, he shifted back to his human form. Surprised by the sudden added weight, you fell down on your back as you see his curls frolicked in front of you. Carlos prevented himself from crashing on you by having his hands on either side of your head, touching the grass underneath you.
Your eyes widened, processing how the cat turned into Carlos. Carlos is a shapeshifter too dingus, he could turn into animals.
"You did that one purpose!" Carlos accused even though he knew you didn't, it was his pride trying to defend itself.
You ignored him, still stunned as your eyes trailed across his features, taking note of the amount of freckles he had, the stunning green eyes holding a worried a gaze and how red he is at the moment. It made you concious of your own heated cheeks.
For a moment, none of you said anything, just staying still. None of you knew how to start a confrontation.
The corner of Carlos' lips twitched into a smirk, "You look cute in my ruana, cariño,"
You brought your hands up to your face, covering the fact that you were vividly blushing.
"Sorry," you said, mumbling the next words, "Didn't think you'd be the cat,"
His smirk softened, turning into a small smile. He balanced all his weight on one of his hand as his other hand carefully pushed your hand away from your face and then he cupped your cheek.
"Sorry that the cat is just me,"
You shook your head before leaning into his touch and smiled, "Im glad that it's you,"
"I honestly thought you knew," he confessed.
"How so?"
"You called me gatito once, I thought my cover was blown,"
You snorted a laugh, "I'll keep using it if you want,"
He shook his head swiftly, "No and my hands are about to fall off,"
No words were needed for you to open your arms for Carlos to slowly lay down on you.
"Oof, oh wow you're heavy," you said when Carlos puts his entire body on yours, his head was just below your chin. You were tempted to kiss him after the scent of strawberries entered your nose.
"Too bad, your fault for kissing me," Carlos said, you felt the tiny tingling soundwaves that was emiting from him.
Your wrapped your arms around his body and squeezed him, "Didn't know it was you doofus,"
The tingling soundwaves intensified, that's when you registered the sound, Carlos is purring.
"Are you purring,"
"No, shut up,"
"But you are," you turned to your side, bringing carlos along so you both could face eachother more comfortably. He kept his eyes shut, "I am not purring, I'm in my human form,"
You raised an eyebrow at him, your stroked his back with your hand, making the noise a bit more evident.
Carlos opened his eyes, blankly staring at you.
"You're definitely purring you-"
Carlos pushed his lips against yours for a quick kiss and pulled back. The colour crimson surfaced on your face; seeing that he had broke you, Carlos moved your arms away and pulled you closer to him, adjusting himself so you could have your head leaned on his chest.
He pressed his lips on the top of your head, staying there for a moment before retracting and revealed the next few words, "I like you a lot and I love you most,"
His words tugged on your heartstrings, similar to a lyra being strungged; you tried to snuggle against him more, hearing him breath and the slight sounds of purrs. No matter what, it seemed that his cat tendencies tends to stay.
"I love you too mi gato,"
This had been on my mind for quite awhile. Ever since the first time mahi posted her hcs to be exact.
Idk why i want to mention this but i have not watch a whisker away but i will, when i do, i will do and watch :)
Please look at how funny i wrote down this idea (=^･ω･^=)
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