Yang:Do think Blake would be cool with me wanting to meet her folks sooner rather later? I’ve been thinking about bringing it up.
Ruby:The worst she could do is runaway again, and you survived that. Might as well ask.
Ruby:…My bad. Sore spot I guess.
Yang:You were rather quick with it. Am I bugging you?
Ruby:No! It’s not- I mean…little bit, but don’t get the wrong idea! I like that you want to talk with me about this stuff, and I’m happy you’re happy. It’s just…sorta feels like I end up having to hold some of the emotional baggage between you two. Not that I don’t want to be there for you! I-
Yang:Ruby, it’s cool. I have been rather yappy as of late.
Ruby:That’s not a bad thing. Honestly…maybe I’m a little jealous of the situation.
Yang:Oh? *eyes widened* Does my little sis have feelings for someone? Is it actual farm boy or spiritual farm boy?
Ruby:Actually they’re both real. Jaune’s family owns a few acres. They had turkeys.
Ruby:It could’ve been Weiss for all you know!
Yang:Pfft, nah. If you had a crush on Weiss then you would’ve been trying to rebrand us as Remnant’s ultimate power couples or having a crisis that we’re following dad’s footsteps.
Ruby:Point taken…I can’t deny any of that.
Yang:So, you gonna tell em?
Ruby:Let’s not be crazy now. No need for all that.
Yang:Don’t tell me you’re about to act like your big sister?
Ruby:Pfft, I would never procrastinate so long. I just…don’t feel like potentially ruining a friendship or anything. He’s been through hell; I’ve been through it too. I…sigh
Yang:Look, I know this is typically said as a joke, but the worst Jaune would literally ever do is say no. I’m not gonna tell you what to do, but didn’t we promise to speak up when things are weighing us down? That includes everyone.
Ruby:Yeah but…I like him! It’s already awkward enough dealing with the feelings, but…
Ruby:Y’know, he’s…attractive.
Yang:Oh. Oh! You actually want to get handsy?
Ruby:Didn’t say all that! But…kinda? It’s an attack on all fronts! Rationalizing deeper feelings is one thing; this desire to physically be close with him is too much! How do I cope with that!?
Yang:Maybe cross that bridge second? I know you’re not the best at reading a room but you will definitely gauge the vibe after admitting you like him. Treat it like a fighting game. Don’t burn all your meter.
Ruby:You’re being shockingly okay with your little sister having feelings for someone.
Yang:To be honest, I was beginning to think literal romance wasn’t your thing, which is fine by me and probably dad. Learning someone is making your heart flutter though? Ah, I gotta admit it makes me kinda excited.
Ruby:*red*Don’t make a big deal out of it, or be nosy! *rubs head*…I guess saying something would feel slightly better than screaming into a pillow for the rest of my life.
Yang:I mean if all goes well, that might be the rest of your life, hehehe.
Yang:I’m joking! Feel better?
Yang:Good. Seriously though, what ever happens, I’m there for ya.
Ruby:Thanks. Sorry again about…everything honestly. I always feel bad butting heads with you.
Yang:That makes two of us. Apology and all.
She opens her arms for her little sister to graciously walk into. Despite it all, they were both still huggers.
On the sunny training grounds of Shade, Jaune sits on the outskirts of a grass field as he checks his sword. Ruby had a feeling she’d find him here. She approaches from behind, casting her shadow over him to give away her position.
Jaune:Hardly working. Ran a few drills is all. Getting some training in?
Ruby:Nah. I’m making today a lazy day.
Jaune:Then I guess you’re here for me? What can I do you for?
After a few seconds with no answer, Jaune was about to turn his head. Before he could, the weight of Ruby pressing her back against his stopped him from moving. It didn’t feel bad, but clearly something was on her mind.
Jaune:Rubes? Everything alright?
Ruby:Yeah. I just….we’re friends; best friends in fact. Right?
Jaune:If we weren’t, I’d consider my name in your scroll being “vomit boy” as a sign of bullying, hehe. Yes Ruby, we’re best friends. Arguably the closest I’ve had.
Ruby:Soooo…I guess it would be weird if I said I liked you?
Ruby:I can’t pinpoint the exact moment, but I do. Like you I mean. A lot. *hugs knees* I just thought you should know. It-It doesn’t have to mean anything. I’m not trying to ruin what we have or put you on the spot. I just couldn’t stop thinking it; about you and everything if that makes sense? Ugh! Please shut me up or something! *pulls up hood* I’m sorry.
Jaune:Sorry for what? You really think I’d be upset or criticize our friendship because you like me more than what you used to?
Ruby:…Well when you say it like that I look dumb.
Jaune:You’re not dumb. And…I like you too, y’know?
The speed in which she pulled down her hood and properly sat next to Jaune made him more than a little bashful, causing him to not make eye contact.
Jaune:I know I didn’t think about everything I needed to in the Ever After, clearly, but I did think about you a lot. I don’t think there was a day I didn’t. You mean a lot to me in many ways.
Ruby:Hey, no need to diss yourself in the beginning there. You- we’ve been through enough. No need to add more insults to injury.
Jaune:My bad. Easier said than done I guess. I uhh, I’m sorry. About everything. I never properly apologized.
Ruby:I’m sorry too. Things got really, really strained. We said somethings we shouldn’t have. And looks like there’s other things we clearly forgot to say. What’s up with that?
Jaune:Well for starters, I don’t know exactly how you feel about me. I mean I know we’re close, but I wouldn’t blame you if you still saw me as an older guy.
Ruby:Ah. Yeah I can see you feeling a little worried about that. Honestly, maybe if we found you living a full life with new friends. Jaune, you were living the worst moments of your life for decades. I’d hardly count that as growing up.
Ruby:That came out wrong! I’m not judging! I literally can’t. I didn’t even survive three full days in there without phoning it in. Man, we really are a mess.
Jaune:At least we’re back together again. Things will get better.
Ruby:I’d like to think so. Heh, together. *red* Sooo, it’s mutual then? More or less?
Jaune:What exactly is the more and less?
Ruby:W-We don’t have to get into all that right now, do we?
Jaune:*makes eye contact*….
Ruby:…I really think you’re cute! It’s been distracting lately!
Jaune:Hahaha! Really? Well, thank you. *grins* I think you’re cute too.
Ruby:Why do I feel like you’re picking on me? This is a big deal for me. I practiced on the way over here. Not that it really helped. Anyways…ummm
Jaune:Being…more? Ruby, even if it doesn’t work out, I’m not going anywhere. You’re unfortunately stuck with me.
Ruby:…What’s so unfortunate about that?
Ruby wasn’t sure why she did it, but her hand found its way on top of his. It was hard to tell whose hand was trembling. Perhaps both? The silence felt okay. Comfortable even. Gentle smiles were exchanged while her heart raced. This was already more than what she could hope for, so why couldn’t she stop herself from slightly raising her chin? Maybe her eyes betrayed her intent, and she was easier to read than a book; what should’ve been a conversation now had her eyes close the moment Jaune leaned down. To call it a simple kiss didn’t feel right. Every muscle relaxed, letting the gentle warmth on her lips wash over her. Ruby leaned into it only a little bit, attempting to take things slowly for both their sake. Still, she hadn’t realized how long it’s been since she’s felt so…relaxed. No, that wasn’t the word. In this moment, Ruby felt safe. This was okay. It was…normal.
As he slowly pulled back, Jaune immediately noticed the girl looking at him with tears in her eyes.
Jaune:Ruby!? I-I’m sorry! I thought-
Ruby:No. Y-You’re fine. This is more than fine. *wiping eyes* Hehe, sorry. I’m just…I’m feeling a lot of things right now. Gods, I must look crazy. Like get it together, ehe.
Jaune:…Don’t say that. I think it’s okay to feel…all of it.
So much for a dry face. Hearing that brought a few extra tears. This time, it was Jaune’s hand that cradled them. He looked directly at her with caring eyes. They were always so sincere. So kind; even though the worst of things, Ruby always knew his eyes looked at her with such an earnest expression. Her hands rested on the collar of his shirt, gripping it slowly and gently tugging him back down. Right now, all she wanted to do was feel this moment. The fear, aches, comfort, and warmth. Everything else could wait. Today, Ruby was going to put herself first.
Ruby:*walks back in* I have returned.
Yang:Did you find him? *sips drink*
Yang:!? Wh- cough! Agh! Ugh! What!? You-
Ruby:Wow, you really believed that. My bad. Take another sip before you croak.
Yang:You lied!? Why would you do that!?
Ruby:Pfft! I wanted to see your reaction. Anyways, rest your heart. It was a joke. *blushes* However we did kiss. Tada, I…have a boyfriend now. *covers face* Yippee.
Yang:Oh. Wait, yo! Okay! Congrats! That’s huge! *holds head* Damn, really taking me on a ride here. Seriously though, glad it worked out.
Ruby:We’re testing the waters but thanks. I really appreciate it.
Yang:I’m surprised he isn’t here right now. Something come up?
Ruby:I didn’t know how well you’d take that joke.
Jaune:*slowly opens door* Am I safe to come inside?
Yang:No. Stick to kissing.
Jaune:…I walked into that one.
