Mod's corner of the internet

Overworked and in desperate need of coffee

[mod-does-things]

The one and only Mod

(Owner of blog is a minor!!! Nsfw acc's dont interact!)

Name: Mod

Occupation: Founder of The Moderators.

Age: 24

Likes: Coffee, Collecting Knives, Coffee, Working, Coffee

Dislikes: Wade Winston Wilson, Working, Pranks

Appearance: 6 foot tall. Usually seen wearing a vest suit similar to the images above. Due to a mutant gene his head has turned invisible.

Abilities: Proficiency with knives and close quarter combat, Good with files and computers, A high pain tolerance, Fluent in Russian, Recently discovered that he can create constructs out of light,

Backstory: As a child Mod was given to a Russian hydra facility to be turned into a soldier. He was able to escape and deprogram himself but now seeks out hydra to end them himself.

My name is Mod. I'm a workaholic with a coffee addiction.

I work everywhere. Check the office with the coffee maker and about 12 empty mugs. That's mine.

I am the leader of the moderators. Click here if you want to learn about each member.

I am dating @whiteliesblacklips. Hurt him, and no one will find you.

I am mainly around @truthful-timmy-of-saskatoon as he has paid me to watch over him for some reason.

I happen to own a talking sword that you can ask questions. Say hi Arthur. Hello!

If you treat me with respect I will do the same. Act like an asshole and you'll get the same energy.

Basically, dont be a dick.

Got it? Cool.

(Parentheses mean ooc)

(Face claim: Ethan winters, because he’s faceless lol)

(Rp guidelines: no 18+ rps because I’m 17. Most other things are fair game however, just keep it below an r rating.)

(Feel free to send rp starters or just throw your characters at me or just ask random questions.)

(Owner of the blog: @nothingf-i-s-h-yhere)

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans against Mod's shoulder, closing his eyes and letting out a soft breath. "Will you come inside for a little while?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod looks at his watch. He has no where to be. It’s late anyway. He just needs some company. “Sure.”

They get to his place and Mod helps him walk in.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wobbles slightly as they walk, bringing a hand to his mouth. "Fuck- usually it takes far more than two beers. I don't feel good....it's probably mental. I'm sorry. I ruined the night."

[mod-does-things]

“Hey. No, you didn’t ruin the night. It’s alright.” He helps him sit down on the couch. “Do you need a trash can?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need you." He pulls his knees to his chest. "Seriously though, I'm fine. I just need a break. I'm overthinking things."

[mod-does-things]

Mod stops. “What was that?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need a break?"

[mod-does-things]

“No no.. you said something before that.” He puts down the trash can he was grabbing. “What did you say.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"That I need you." He digs his nails into his jeans. "It's true. You know it. I wouldn't have survived....anything this year without you."

[mod-does-things]

Mod struggles to find something to say. “I… I will always be there for you. That’s what a friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"That means a lot." He pats the couch next to him. "Come sit with me?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod sits down next to him. “I’m sorry for what I said earlier.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny takes a slow breath, actually running through his thoughts before answering. "Thank you for the apology. You are intitled to your own opinions, and I can awknowledge that the view you have is certantly more romantic. I know you weren't attacking me."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. I wasn’t trying to attack you. I just.. I don’t want something simple. I want to be there for the hard stuff. When things don’t have easy answers.” He puts an arm around Destiny. Pulling him in for a side hug. “I know you are going through a rough time. But I know you are stronger than this.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans into the hug, resting his head on Mod's shoulder. "I am strong enough because I have supports," he murmurs.

[mod-does-things]

"Yeah. You will always have me to support you." He says. "No matter what."

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans against Mod's shoulder, closing his eyes and letting out a soft breath. "Will you come inside for a little while?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod looks at his watch. He has no where to be. It’s late anyway. He just needs some company. “Sure.”

They get to his place and Mod helps him walk in.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wobbles slightly as they walk, bringing a hand to his mouth. "Fuck- usually it takes far more than two beers. I don't feel good....it's probably mental. I'm sorry. I ruined the night."

[mod-does-things]

“Hey. No, you didn’t ruin the night. It’s alright.” He helps him sit down on the couch. “Do you need a trash can?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need you." He pulls his knees to his chest. "Seriously though, I'm fine. I just need a break. I'm overthinking things."

[mod-does-things]

Mod stops. “What was that?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need a break?"

[mod-does-things]

“No no.. you said something before that.” He puts down the trash can he was grabbing. “What did you say.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"That I need you." He digs his nails into his jeans. "It's true. You know it. I wouldn't have survived....anything this year without you."

[mod-does-things]

Mod struggles to find something to say. “I… I will always be there for you. That’s what a friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"That means a lot." He pats the couch next to him. "Come sit with me?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod sits down next to him. “I’m sorry for what I said earlier.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny takes a slow breath, actually running through his thoughts before answering. "Thank you for the apology. You are intitled to your own opinions, and I can awknowledge that the view you have is certantly more romantic. I know you weren't attacking me."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. I wasn’t trying to attack you. I just.. I don’t want something simple. I want to be there for the hard stuff. When things don’t have easy answers.” He puts an arm around Destiny. Pulling him in for a side hug. “I know you are going through a rough time. But I know you are stronger than this.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans against Mod's shoulder, closing his eyes and letting out a soft breath. "Will you come inside for a little while?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod looks at his watch. He has no where to be. It’s late anyway. He just needs some company. “Sure.”

They get to his place and Mod helps him walk in.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wobbles slightly as they walk, bringing a hand to his mouth. "Fuck- usually it takes far more than two beers. I don't feel good....it's probably mental. I'm sorry. I ruined the night."

[mod-does-things]

“Hey. No, you didn’t ruin the night. It’s alright.” He helps him sit down on the couch. “Do you need a trash can?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need you." He pulls his knees to his chest. "Seriously though, I'm fine. I just need a break. I'm overthinking things."

[mod-does-things]

Mod stops. “What was that?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need a break?"

[mod-does-things]

“No no.. you said something before that.” He puts down the trash can he was grabbing. “What did you say.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"That I need you." He digs his nails into his jeans. "It's true. You know it. I wouldn't have survived....anything this year without you."

[mod-does-things]

Mod struggles to find something to say. “I… I will always be there for you. That’s what a friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"That means a lot." He pats the couch next to him. "Come sit with me?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod sits down next to him. “I’m sorry for what I said earlier.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans against Mod's shoulder, closing his eyes and letting out a soft breath. "Will you come inside for a little while?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod looks at his watch. He has no where to be. It’s late anyway. He just needs some company. “Sure.”

They get to his place and Mod helps him walk in.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wobbles slightly as they walk, bringing a hand to his mouth. "Fuck- usually it takes far more than two beers. I don't feel good....it's probably mental. I'm sorry. I ruined the night."

[mod-does-things]

“Hey. No, you didn’t ruin the night. It’s alright.” He helps him sit down on the couch. “Do you need a trash can?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need you." He pulls his knees to his chest. "Seriously though, I'm fine. I just need a break. I'm overthinking things."

[mod-does-things]

Mod stops. “What was that?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need a break?"

[mod-does-things]

“No no.. you said something before that.” He puts down the trash can he was grabbing. “What did you say.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"That I need you." He digs his nails into his jeans. "It's true. You know it. I wouldn't have survived....anything this year without you."

[mod-does-things]

Mod struggles to find something to say. “I… I will always be there for you. That’s what a friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans against Mod's shoulder, closing his eyes and letting out a soft breath. "Will you come inside for a little while?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod looks at his watch. He has no where to be. It’s late anyway. He just needs some company. “Sure.”

They get to his place and Mod helps him walk in.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wobbles slightly as they walk, bringing a hand to his mouth. "Fuck- usually it takes far more than two beers. I don't feel good....it's probably mental. I'm sorry. I ruined the night."

[mod-does-things]

“Hey. No, you didn’t ruin the night. It’s alright.” He helps him sit down on the couch. “Do you need a trash can?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need you." He pulls his knees to his chest. "Seriously though, I'm fine. I just need a break. I'm overthinking things."

[mod-does-things]

Mod stops. “What was that?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need a break?"

[mod-does-things]

“No no.. you said something before that.” He puts down the trash can he was grabbing. “What did you say.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans against Mod's shoulder, closing his eyes and letting out a soft breath. "Will you come inside for a little while?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod looks at his watch. He has no where to be. It’s late anyway. He just needs some company. “Sure.”

They get to his place and Mod helps him walk in.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wobbles slightly as they walk, bringing a hand to his mouth. "Fuck- usually it takes far more than two beers. I don't feel good....it's probably mental. I'm sorry. I ruined the night."

[mod-does-things]

“Hey. No, you didn’t ruin the night. It’s alright.” He helps him sit down on the couch. “Do you need a trash can?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I need you." He pulls his knees to his chest. "Seriously though, I'm fine. I just need a break. I'm overthinking things."

[mod-does-things]

Mod stops. “What was that?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans against Mod's shoulder, closing his eyes and letting out a soft breath. "Will you come inside for a little while?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod looks at his watch. He has no where to be. It’s late anyway. He just needs some company. “Sure.”

They get to his place and Mod helps him walk in.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wobbles slightly as they walk, bringing a hand to his mouth. "Fuck- usually it takes far more than two beers. I don't feel good....it's probably mental. I'm sorry. I ruined the night."

[mod-does-things]

“Hey. No, you didn’t ruin the night. It’s alright.” He helps him sit down on the couch. “Do you need a trash can?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny leans against Mod's shoulder, closing his eyes and letting out a soft breath. "Will you come inside for a little while?"

[mod-does-things]

Mod looks at his watch. He has no where to be. It’s late anyway. He just needs some company. “Sure.”

They get to his place and Mod helps him walk in.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny wipes tears from his face with one hand, while taking Mod's hand. "Thank you."

[mod-does-things]

He squeezes his hand. “Of course.” He makes a call. A car is pulled up in front of the restaurant. They get in and Mod tells the driver the address for Destiny’s place. “We will be back to your place soon.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny freezes, trying to find the answer. Yes. Because part of his traumatized mind was stuck in that pattern. Craved the validation. But he couldn't say that. Not to Mod. "No," he whispers. "I just came to make Hound happy."

[mod-does-things]

Mod sighed. He put away his phone. He stands up. He offers his hand. “Come on. I’ll take you home.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny sits back down, pushing the bowl away and resting his head against the counter. "The stupid thing is, you're not wrong. It's not the person I want to be. If nothing else, that attittude makes for shitty parenting and I don't want that."

[mod-does-things]

“You never gave off that impression to me. You seemed to like Marcus. Not just for a one night stand. You seem to not act like that now. Is that what you were expecting out of this date?” Mod asks. Finger hovering over the button to call the uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"You literally just said you do!" Frustrated, tipsy and emotional, a wonderful combonation that threatened to boil over into something worse. "You don't understand-!"

[mod-does-things]

He sighs. He didn’t know that about Destiny. He wishes he held his tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t look down on people.. I meant more like..” He sighs. “Never mind. Let’s just get you home.” He goes back to getting him an uber.

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"It's not you. It's me. I'm a stupid fucking whore." He takes a sharp breath, blinking back hot tears. "All those people you're talking about- the ones who sleep around and don't want something that last longer than the night -that's me! I'm those people! And you're right. It's horrible and I hate myself for it!"

[mod-does-things]

“W-what!? Destiny. No. Don’t do that. Stop.” He puts down his phone. “Des. What are you talking about. I would never think that about you. I don’t care about that! You need to just take a breath. Calm down.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I don't know." He sets the spoon down. "I'm sorry. I- This was a mistake. I shouldn't be... I-" Trying not to cry. "Could you call me an Uber? I need to go home."

[mod-does-things]

“What? Um. If you insist. Have I done something to upset you?” He pulls out his phone to call him an uber. “I am sorry.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny stares at his soup, his cheeks burning. They hated to think what Mod would say if he knew they were that type of person. Or at least, they had been for a few years. Not while they were dating Marcus and not since.

"I guess that makes sense," he mumbles, poking his spoon into the bowl. "I dunno. Maybe people are just... Maybe they weren't looking for something deep."

[mod-does-things]

“I suppose. Nothing wrong with it. Just.. you tend to hurt people sometimes with that kind of attitude. Just sleep with and forget. I might just be a hopeless romantic but.. I want something that lasts longer than one night.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“How is your stew?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Against his better judgement, Mod was going out on a blind date. He decided to let himself do something wild for once so here he was. Sitting at a bar waiting for his date to show up.

That's when Destiny walked in. "Oh hey. Funny running into you here."

@mod-does-things

Destiny grants him a rare smile, glancing around before leaning against the bar next to him. "Oh, hey, Mod! It's nice to see you around. What are you doing here?"

[mod-does-things]

“I was put on a blind date. I figure I’m an eligible bachelor. Might as well put myself out there.” He says. “What about you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Same, except the eligible bachelor and putting myself out there part, I'm just doing this because my kid asked me too." He glances around again, trying to remember what the agreed meeting spot was.

[mod-does-things]

“Ah. I see. A friend of mine suggested I go on a date. They even picked out the person.” Mod says realizing the similarities between their stories.

“Did your child happen to be a fox?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny laughs, coming to the same realization. "Oh! Yes, silly hound. I don't know why he'd think we were a good match." He awkwardly looks away, worried that came across wrong. It wasn't like he disliked Mod. "I mean..."

[mod-does-things]

“It’s fine. I know what you meant.” Mod sighs and waves the bartender over to order a drink. “I suppose we should just wait this out. We are already here. Might as well enjoy ourselves.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Right. Why not enjoy the night?" He flushes and waits until Mod has ordered to then get himself a beer. Swirling the golden liquid, he stares into his glass. "...so, you must be the person he was practicing accepting help from."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm? Oh! Yes. If I remember correctly he tried to take my wallet. I told him not to do things like that and if he needs help to just ask. He was a bit distrusting. Understandably. I wouldn’t trust a man in a suit either.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

This actually gets a laugh out of Destiny. He shakes his head, taking a swig from the cup and then setting it down. "Shady types, those men in suits. I'm glad everything worked out."

[mod-does-things]

"Yes. I gave him some pre made meals and sent him on his way." He chuckles. "Sweet kid. I wonder why he decided to set you up on this date?"

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Trying to get me to move on, probably," he mumbles, almost inaudably. He takes another sip of the glass. "I didn't know you were single....or gay. I thought you had a woman clinging to you last time I went to one of those dinners."

[mod-does-things]

“Yes. Those women are just someone I hire for the night so I don’t attract any attention from the media. Better to just be regular mutant than a gay one. They would go for my invisible throat if they knew.” He takes a sip of his drink.

“I get enough from my detractors, better not give them another slur to call me in the failures they call a magazine.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Ah." He stares down at his cup. "Makes sense."

[mod-does-things]

“I didn’t know you went to my parties. I usually put your name on the list because you are my friend but I didn’t think you’d show up. I never considered those kinds of events to be your thing.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I..." He grips his mug like a lifeline. "Yeah. It was Marcus' idea. Said I should be there for my friend. I don't stay for long. I hate parties."

[mod-does-things]

"Ah. I see. If you don't want to go you don't have to. If you are uncomfortable you don't have to go. Wouldn't want to force my friend to do something for my sake. Besides, I only throw those parties so rich people can pretend they are charitable." He chuckles at the last part.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Uh-huh." They take another sip, keeping their eyes on the worn bartop. "Let's talk about something else. Tell me what you have been up to."

[mod-does-things]

“Well. Mostly just stomping out hydra. We also built some more food banks recently. Those are going to need to be filled soon, so I’m going to hold a hold a food drive.” He finishes his drink.

“Do you want anything to eat? I believe this place serves food.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Probably should," Destiny agrees, finishing his own drink and getting a refill. "...unless you want to see me well and truely drunk," he adds with a joking grin.

[mod-does-things]

He chuckles. “I don’t think that would be good for either of us. I’d have to take you home, make sure you sleep well, all sorts of things.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

They jokingly take another swig. "That sounds awesome. Sounds like I need to get to work then. Unless you are against that kind of relationship between friends..."

[mod-does-things]

“If you plan on getting wasted, I’m going to take you home. That’s what a good friend does.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny frowns down at the cup. "I'm not going to get wasted. That would take more alcohol than I can afford right now. That wasn't what I was talking about."

[mod-does-things]

“What do you mean? If you want to drink I can cover you. I don’t mind.” The most clueless man.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Never mind. I mean...if you want to take the tab, I'm not going to protest." He covers his face with his hands. Clearly Mod was avoiding the topic. He should just drop it. "Anyway. Um... I can't think of any more conversation topics."

[mod-does-things]

“Hm.” He knew when not to pry. “How have you been managing after. You know.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Okay." Their voice softens. "Everytime I think I'm better.... Something comes up and I start crying again, but I haven't had another break down. Oh yeah. And the hospital wanted me to work with a uh... There is a specific name, but I don't remember. Someone who helps you with childhood trauma. Of course, I've been at court twice now. They can't find the asshole who did it, so of course the person who broke down crying over the murder is probably the one who did it."

[mod-does-things]

Mod listens. The idea that Destiny would be blamed for killing Marcus is dreadful. Despite how much he despised him, Mod had to admit Marcus made Destiny happy. And the idea that all that happened is terrible.

“I am sorry. That is truly awful that you have had to deal with that.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah. I... Yeah." He finishes the second mug of beer, setting it down. "We were going to eat?"

[mod-does-things]

“Oh. Right. Get whatever you’d like. I’ll cover the bill.” Mod says waving over a server. “I’ll have a steak and lobster tail.”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny had to remind himself not to stare. He tended to forget the huge wealth gape between them. "Uh...um... I'll have the uh..dish of the day?"

[mod-does-things]

The waiter informs him that the dish is a roast beef stew. “Oh that sounds good.” Mod chimes in.

The waiter returns to the kitchen to put in their orders.

“So, how has college been treating you?”

[whiteliesblacklips]

Destiny flushes. "Oh I...uh... I dropped out," he mumbles.

[mod-does-things]

“Oh, that’s a shame. I understand however. With how much you have going on.” He looks away. He didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"I mean, i can always go back later, right?" He's trying to convence himself more than he is Mod. "I was going to get another job...one opened up, but recently I've been spending more time with my kids, and I think they need me around."

[mod-does-things]

“You are absolutely correct. You can always go back. I think that’s a good thing. Your kids need you around. Seems one thinks you need someone else in the picture.” Mod chuckles.

[whiteliesblacklips]

"Yeah." The waiter returns with their food and Destiny lets out a sigh, happy to have an excuse to not talk about it. Although... "So, uh... Did you go on this blinddate looking for a serious relationship? Or just someone to spend the night with?"

[mod-does-things]

“Well. In the past when I was looking for a serious relationship, I only seemed to find people who wanted to have a one night stand. I’ve never really felt comfortable with that sort of thing.” He cuts into his steak.

“How can you just go and sleep with someone you just met. I’d much rather have gotten to know the person on a deeper level.”