#absolute series.

[meltedbluecaterpillar]

Can I Stay the Night?

you are here! - ch. ii - ch. iii - ch. iv

A/N: Once again… We will begin from nothing. Well… That’s a lie. This is metamorphosis at work. I wrote this originally when I was about… 18 or 19? It was officially posted... When I was... 20? I think. Now, I can make it better. I have what I need, so updates won’t be as long as they used to be.

Also, I made a playlist. Feel free to listen if you'd like.

tags: Ruggie Bucchi x fem!reader, tw mention of bugs wc: 3.4k+

You jolted awake covered in a thin sheet of sweat. Your hands clutched your blankets in an iron fisted grip. Your eyes dart around the dark room.. You weren’t sure why you suddenly woke up. The shock from your sudden awakening seemed to have erased your memory of your dream. All you could recall is that it was impossibly long. It felt like you experienced years all in the matter of a few hours. It wasn’t a nightmare. You knew that. Just some weird, long dream. 

You sat up slowly, catching a glimpse of Grim curled up beside you as you reached for your phone to check the time. 

2:45am. 

The first day ceremony started at 7pm tonight. 

School was finally starting back up. This time, you would be greeting smaller and fresher faces among your fellow third years. Well, among your fellow second years. Age wise, you should be sitting in class with Riddle or Jamil, not Ace and Deuce. That was something you testified against last year. The Headmage shrugged you off. Regardless of your age, you would be required to join the freshman. But with your endless complaints and begging the Fae finally caved one Spring morning. He would honor your little request. Kinda. 

Morning classes with your fellow second years, including Grim. Afternoon classes you would be flying solo. This was also to test Grim as many of the staff believed he was not using his own knowledge on tests, but yours since the two of you counted as one student. Meaning the two of you only needed one test to count for a grade. Grim denied all possibilities that you were the brains between them. You didn’t want to bruise his ever-growing ego. 

You returned your phone to the little wooden nightstand and laid back down. Your eyes trained on the ceiling as you tried to piece together what the dream was about. Maybe it wasn’t that important. It could be just something silly where Ace and Deuce swapped hair colors again. Or maybe you robbed a bank with Professor Trein as the getaway driver. Or maybe you dreamt about Leona taking you on a joyride to an unknown place.

Right, Leona graduated last year. You wouldn’t see him again. 

Your mouth suddenly felt cotton dry as you looked over at your nightstand. You had him on MagiCam, and you had his number from when you needed tutoring help. Your crush had gone so far that you made your phone password his birthday. It wasn’t creepy if he didn’t know about it. Not that he ever would. 

Your eyes drifted back to the ceiling as you pictured Leona in your mind. He should be on his fourth year internship right now. You remembered standing there with tears welled in your eyes. After the graduation ceremony he placed his hand on the top of your head, asking that you look after Ruggie and Jack for him. Of course you said yes. You had adored the older man, but you knew nothing would come of it. After all Leona is a prince; And you’re just some girl from another universe. But that didn’t stop you from fantasizing of him taking you on dates or cozying up together. 

You finally closed your eyes and sank against the pillows and sheets with a melancholic sigh. Something about your forgotten dream startled you awake. But you felt grateful. Now you had the chance to slip away into a dream with Leona taking you on a date among the stars. 

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

“Damn it!” You snapped angrily as you ran through the empty halls of Night Raven College. Feet pounding against the freshly waxed, checkered tile. Almost causing you to slip multiple times. The paintings cheered for you, telling you that the ceremony was going to start soon. But you could do it. You would make it. Their kind words pushed you forward. Panting and out of breath with the hood of your ceremonial robes thrown over your head and Grim tucked under your arm like a rotund football. “S-Slow down- I’m gonna throw up-”

“Please don’t throw up Grim!” You begged through a growl as you hit corner after corner to the ceremony room with the dark mirror. You weren’t sure how you managed to be late. Time had simply passed through your fingers when you started taking the ‘first day of school’ pictures of Grim. The two of you had gone into the town at the base of the mountain to get a big lunch per the monster's request. You greeted some familiar faces with Grim as you made your way back to Ramshackle. You welcomed back the ghosts. You did some cleaning and laundry as you got your uniform out of the closet and ready for tomorrow's first official day of classes. After all of that, you and Grim had a quick nap time; only to wake up with only ten minutes before the ceremony started. 

Your stomach sank and you raced around to dress not only yourself, but Grim as well. You would be missing the coffin opening segment, but you would at least be on time for Crowley’s presentation. You outstretched your hand with Grim starting to slip from under your arm. The heavy door was forced open to the mirror chamber, just as Crowley appeared to present his speech and welcome both new and old faces to Night Raven College. You made it. 

You swallowed, still panting with exhaustion as you eased the door shut as quietly as you could in the darkening room. Making your way through the sea of students as Crowley dazzled the youth with silly magical spells during his presentation. You greeted Ace and Deuce with a quick wave and a smile as Grim wriggled in your arms with glee. “Lemme stand in the front! I wanna see!” He whispered loudly, seemingly recovered from all of the shaking as you prepared to adjust your hold on him. You looked down realizing that because of your combined height, you would have to hold him up in the air or place him on your shoulders to watch the ceremony properly. He was hoping to become a well-respected mage after all. It must be the excitement of the first day back, he usually didn’t take these things seriously. “Watch everyone’s feet.” You whispered back and allowed him to leap to the floor and scurry off to stand in the front of the crowd. 

You smiled and continued to surf through the male population. Greeting other familiar faces as you tried to find somewhere to stand with Grim in sight, or at least next to someone you knew. Finally stopped, your gaze landed on a friendly face. Greyish blue, with a drooping eye shape and dark colored eye bags. His face, once neutral, now had a curling smirk as you drew closer and closer. Almost like you were hypnotized by the sight of him. “I saw you come in late, not very Housewardeny of you.” A snicker followed the teasing whisper as you straightened up with a grin. Your cheeks felt hot. “It’s nice to see you too, Ruggie.” You looked around and realized this was a perfect spot to see Grim and the ceremony in progress. “How was summer? Isn’t it hot where you live?” You asked curiously as he leaned in to listen. Your arm was now pressed flush against his and you noticed he seemed taller. His arm felt more… Solid than you remembered. In the dark you could tell his skin was tanner as well. His freckles lining his cheeks and nose stood out more. His hair even looked a little longer. 

It was different; A good kind of different; An intimidating kind of different.

“The Afterglow Savana ain’t as bad as you think. It’s worse when I come back. The snow? How is that even possible? We’re surrounded by salt water.” He clicked his tongue in irritation knowing he would have to prep for the cold one final year. His summer fun was finally over. “Living here on campus and going back can be brutal sometimes.” He trailed off as Crowley introduced the Dark Mirror to the freshman students and explained the process of dorm sorting. 

“Bet it was awful lonely with just Grim to keep ya’ company. I know we texted pretty often on MagiCam but it’s not the same.” Ruggie whispered as you perked up and nodded. You began talking about the last few months you spent on the island with an empty campus all to yourself. Every month, the Headmage would ‘generously’ wire you some Madol so he wouldn’t come back to find you as a corpse. It was shoestring thin but you made it work. You got a summer job at a café in the town despite your lack of legal paperwork. You made plenty of tips and a nice check that you used to keep up with feeding yourself and Grim for the summer. You and Grim went to visit the sea and even went camping on the beach. You explored the school and even some of the empty dorms when you got bored enough. It wasn’t so bad. “Okay, so Grim was bug collecting.”

“Bug collecting?”

“It was some scavenger hunt thing I found online- It was a lazy day.” You explained and Ruggie nodded in understanding with his arms crossed over his chest. His eyes watched the freshman of this year start to awkwardly fidget and line up to be sorted into their respective dorms. “The first thing he found was a cicada. I thought it was the shell. And then it started buzzing… Ruggie, he ate it.” You pinched the bridge of your nose at the horrible memory of you chasing Grim around, begging him to spit out the bug. 

Sometimes you forget he’s still a beast. Something like a cicada is far more edible to him than it is to you. “I’ve eaten weird stuff but I don’t think I could… Well..?” He trailed off in thought with his biscuit colored eyebrows furrowed in thought. “You would eat a cicada?” You asked through a grimace as grayish blue eyes met yours. They seemed to shimmer, almost like he was inspired by the thought “If I was hungry enough. Bugs are a good protein.” He commented with a fanged smile as you started to cringe. “What? You never had a cheese bug?” You shook your head as Ruggie snickered in amusement. “You’re used to eatin’ boujee cafeteria food. I’ll make you a plate of cheese bugs and not tell you until after you finish ‘em.” His tone was warning and playful. You elbowed him gingerly with a scowl and he snickered again. Your mind was becoming plagued with the images of something round, hard and shiny with antenna and black bulging eyes. Lined with skinny and pointy legs that would curl inwards after death. Filled not with organs, but with gooey insides that mimicked melted cheese. You couldn’t begin to comprehend its flavor. 

“What are you doing after this? Bed time?” The hyena asked as the students started to line up close to the housewardens of the seven respective dorms. You noticed someone was standing in Leona’s place. And it wasn’t Ruggie. “Uhh… Probably… Nothing? I actually took a nap before the ceremony so I won’t be tired for a few hours.” You explained sheepishly, becoming more and more confused. Ruggie was supposed to take Leona’s place as housewarden.  Right? “Hey-”

Ruggie slung an arm around your shoulders before you could finish. “So that's why everyone's favorite Prefect was late?” He joked as your ears began to scorch with blood out of embarrassment. “It’s just the stupid ceremony. I can’t do anything mage related anyway. The old bird would’ve never noticed if I was here or not.” You huffed as Ruggie hummed in response. He was pulling you closer now. “Let’s hang tomorrow then. After school.” The request was soft as he gave you a gentle squeeze before releasing you. 

It had been a while since you had spent time with someone other than Grim. “Sure, we can go somewhere.” You answered softly as the lights in the room began to brighten. The ceremony had finished. “Coffee sound good? I need to find some jobs on the island anyway.” Of course he turned the hang out into a job hunt. “Then I’ll take you to the café I worked at over the summer. The boss is super nice. I think he’ll like you.” You offered and you could see his ears perking up from beneath his hood. “Well aren’t you sweet? I guess I’ll end up owing you a favor if I get in.” He snickered, turning to leave as his body brushed against yours. “I’ll see you tomorrow at school.” He gave you a short wave before vanishing among the crowd of students all dressed in their robes. 

Grim came running over to you with a big smile as he jumped in excitement, waving his little paws. “Did you see all the little freshman?! They’re like babies compared to us!” He laughed proudly as you scooped him up with a smile. “Well I mean… They just finished middle school.” The awkward transitional period for all humans. Suddenly being seen as an actual teenager from those who are already teenagers and older. You carried Grim out of the room and into the flooding hall of robed students. You were happy the school was lively again.

“After school tomorrow, me and Ruggie are heading down to the town. Remember that café I worked at sometimes? Did you want to go?” You asked and watched the monster's ears perked up as he removed his hood with his little furry paws. Grim looked surprised by your statement. “Well… I mean… I guess he can be invited.” He crossed his arms with a small pout. The monster didn’t seem to approve of the adventure tomorrow afternoon. “Ruggie has eaten dinner at Ramshackle with us before. This is just us going out for coffee as a welcome back thing.” You weren’t sure why Grim was upset. It could be that he preferred having you to himself. Ever since you got here, you and Grim had been stuck together like glue. And with the two of you spending the whole summer together with no other students around, it made sense that he was feeling clingy.

You worried about the day you would be sent home by Crowley, and at this point you were sure Grim either forgot or couldn’t comprehend that kind of possibility. Honestly, you didn’t want to think about it either. 

“He’s only invited this time! Then it’s back to just us!” He announced with a firm tone as you carried him out of the school and down the dark, dirt path to Ramshackle. “Well, Grim, technically you were the one invited.” You sighed with an eyebrow raised in confusion. “What happens at lunch time during classes?” You asked as Grim looked away. The pouting returned as he pressed his head against your chest.

The weather was starting to cool, and the gentle wind rustled your robes. The moon hadn’t reached its highest point yet. It felt perfect for a night walk on the campus. It was quiet between you and Grim. The only ambience was from the dancing tree branches and the crunch of coarse soil beneath your shoes. As you reached the iron gate Grim was back to his bubbly self. “I want French Toast tomorrow! And syrup! With whipped cream! And  butter! And I want to try that coffee stuff!” Grim was excited for the treats that awaited him tomorrow. 

“Grim, I don't think coffee is a good idea…” You already feared the possibility of syrup clinging to his fur. But caffeine might be too much for him especially late into the afternoon. You weren’t sure if his body could handle it even if he was capable of eating blot stones. “But you drink it.” He grumbled with his ears folded. His cheeks puffed and pouty as you passed the iron gate and walked up the path to Ramshackle. “That’s different, you won’t like the taste anyway.” You gently rubbed at the top of his head as you now stood on the wooden porch. “I promise it isn’t that great.” You wanted to cheer him up since he returned to pouting. He grumbled under his breath as you pushed open the heavy wooden door. “Think about your delicious French toast… Plain milk would make it taste better. What about chocolate milk? And you can drink it out of a coffee cup when we get there?” You cooed as Grim started to perk up again, his big blue eyes blinked up at you as you carried him up the stairs, waving to the ghosts who had settled in the foyer to watch something on the TV in black and white. “Chocolate milk looks like coffee, oh! Hot chocolate is better. Usually coffee is served hot.” You smiled hopefully, feeling Grim’s tail swish happily behind him. 

Grim was satisfied with the offer, purring happily as he pressed his head into your chest. “Way better than coffee, I might get it too.” You sang as you opened the door to the shared bedroom. 

Two letters were placed on your pillow with the NRC wax seal. Crowley did mention that everyone should see their schedules somewhere in their dorms before classes began tomorrow. You helped Grim out of his robes, neatly folding them to later wash free of the fur strands that clung to the expensive fabric. “Can I help make dinner? I think I’m getting better at using a spatula!” He offered excitedly as you elected to shower before dinner for the night. “I don’t see why not. You can show me your skills after I finish in the shower.”

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

Grim was already looking at his schedule addressed to him with a smile. You sat beside him on the bed to look at your own. The both of you had settled on Omurice, and you made a special batch of rice with tuna for Grim while you ate chicken. It was finally getting late. But you didn’t feel tired. Not yet.

“So in the afternoon I’m supposed to be in class 3B. And you’ll still be in 2A with Ace and Deuce.” You explained as you looked over the schedule with a hum. 3B… Last year Ruggie was in 2B. It was possible he would be there. The two of you would officially be sharing a classroom. You didn’t mind it. He was the same age as you and it offered a sense of familiarity. You weren’t a fan of getting the ‘granny’ jokes from Ace so it would be a nice change of pace to end the day. “I should get you a little backpack to wear since we’ll be separated…” You muttered as you laid on your back in thought as you stared up at the paper. 

“A backpack?! I want one with flames on it! Oh! And those patches you can sew on! And I want my name on it so everyone knows it’s mine!” Grim started to bounce on the mattress as you smiled at the thought of sending him off on his own with a tiny backpack. “I can see what they have online but I can’t promise you anything.” You hummed as you neatly folded the schedule, tossing it on your nightstand. 

Maybe if you had tried harder last year, you would get the chance to sit in a class with Leona. Your heart skipped at the thought. Sitting beside him as he napped or even being invited to skip with him… Your face started to burn in embarrassment at the thought of him luring you into the gardens… What kind of intentions would Leona have? … The prince would have good ones. 

He was a gentleman even if he didn’t look like it. But you were capable of seduction… Probably. 

“Are you going to sleep already?” Grim asked, his little paws pressing on your stomach as he curled up close with a small yawn. You shook your head, your eyes had now locked themselves onto your phone. “I think I’ll stay up a little longer.” You mumbled as you saw everyone posting for the first day back. Even some of the people you had met who were now off campus. You couldn’t help yourself; you checked Leona’s account.

He posted a picture of what looked to be the inside of a library. But there was no caption. You wanted to text him. Or at least leave a comment. Your nerves had gotten the best of you. Instead, you liked the photo and scrolled away. 

[meltedbluecaterpillar]

Can I Stay the Night?

ch. i - ch. ii - you are here! - ch. iv

A/N: We are here again. Are you feeling excited? I am. I love writing about Ruggie. He is more complex than people think. I promise. I hope he has a happy birthday today.

tags: Ruggie Bucchi x fem!reader, smut wc: 7k+

A week and some odd days had passed since your last interaction with Ruggie. 

You had ample time to think his offer over. Looking between the pros and any possible cons. You came up with more pros than cons in the end. It was a Friday, and you had the weekend to do what you pleased. Ruggie hasn’t pressed you for an answer, until now. You completed your usual morning routine. Adjusting your uniform and helping Grim with his ribbon. Slipping on your shoes with the beast in your arms, just before waving goodbye to the ghosts. Ruggie had texted you, asking if you could meet and discuss his offer before class. Talking about it in person might solidify if you truly wanted to do this or not. He asked you to meet with him in one of the bathrooms.  

Without Grim of course. You had no reason to refuse. 

“Grim, you can head to class without me. I lent my notes to someone, so I just have to get them back.” The monster looked up at you with his big teal eyes. You lowered him to the floor, allowing his little paws to touch the checkered tile before you pulled your hands away. “Who? I can just go with ya!” He smiled as you smoothed out your skirt with a small shake of your head. “Oh it’s one of the third years. It’s fine I can go alone. I’ll meet you in class.” You assured him, watching how Grim scanned over you with a flash of suspicion. But the monster didn’t press you further. “Just don’t be late!” He instructed firmly as he gave your leg a quick hug. You rubbed the top of his head before he vanished among the crowd of charcoal colored uniforms.  

Once he was out of sight, you turned in the opposite direction. Pulling your phone out of your blazer pocket you texted Ruggie telling him that you were on your way. You swallowed nervously to wet your drying throat. It was a mixture of excitement and fear. The only experience you had was your right hand or a toy. You had heard from others that sex and porn were not the same. Maybe they were just exaggerating. Of course, porn is all acting. But it was your best and only real point of reference.  

You looked around to make sure no one was watching before you pushed open the wooden door. The bathroom in this corner of the school was usually empty. It was a safe haven since you were the only girl and there were no women’s bathrooms. “Ruggie?” You called out with a swivel of your head. You watched as one of the doors opened. It was the one farthest from you. A freckled hand waved for you to come closer, and you did.  

You felt antsy now. Your mouth growing dryer and dryer by the second as he pushed open the door wider, and his blueish grey eyes greeted you. A gasp passed your lips as you were caught in a whirlwind of biscut blond hair, the scent of dried hazelnut, and the rustle of clothes. Your thighs trembled as Ruggie pinned your shoulder against the wall. The stall door was closed, and the faint click of the lock made you jolt.  

Your eyes roamed away from his and down to the uniform clad thigh pressed between your legs. The limb moved ever so slightly, soothing the ache between your thighs. You could feel yourself pulse as Ruggie looked down at you with a smile. Blueish-grey eyes scanned your shaking body as if the hyena was sizing you up. “Didja think about it?” His voice was saccharine and soft. Coating itself over your brain and leaving you in a daze. Each light movement of his leg between your thighs made your face flush with the warmth of blood. You couldn’t find the words to answer. All you could do was nod.  

You were caged in a stall, pressed against the wall tile with Ruggie hovering over you. It took everything in your power to resist grinding against his leg. You did think about his offer. And the longer you did the more enticing it seemed. Ruggie was far from unattractive. His droopy eyes, his sly smile. He was your type. And he’s also you’re friend. Your fingers and your favorite bookmarks could only take you so far. “So? We got a deal, or no?” The hyena was curious to hear your answer as you sheepishly looked away. Training your gaze on a crack in the floor. His warm breath tickled your skin as he leaned in closer. His voice meeting the delicate cartilage of your ear. 

“You don’t have to say yes,” He reminded as his hand loosened on your shoulder, and cautiously trailed down your side. You knew he was testing the waters. But you didn’t have any desire to shove him away. “but I can smell how excited you are.” You could feel him smile as he took his pointer finger and drew a small heart just below your belly button. You shuddered.  Now lifting your hands and gripping the sleeves of the blazer he finally grew into.  

Maybe you were ovulating. Part of you wanted to strip down and let him take you right here in the bathroom. But part of you wanted something a little more refined. “Um...” You mustered the strength to murmur as you crumbled the dark fabric in your fists. You wished he would rock his hips into yours. You wanted to know what it felt like.  

“We don’t have school tomorrow... So...” You had never been in this situation, so you weren’t sure of what to say. “You wanna do it tonight?” You liked the growl in his voice as it vibrated against your sensitive flesh. You nodded again in response as he nudged his leg a little higher. Tonight was good. His hair tickled your skin as he drew another heart over the white fabric of your uniform shirt. “You sure?” Ruggie requested confirmation, and you parted your lips. “Yeah...” You whispered. You felt sure.  

Ruggie snickered before he finally pulled away. “Cool.” His smirk was pleased as you pulled your hands back and gripped the hem of your skirt to force it down. Your body already missed the sensation of his thigh nestled between yours. There was an attempt to suppress your needy expression as he unlocked the stall door. “I’ll see you tonight.” With a final glance, a toothy smile, and a short wave, he left you to collect yourself.  

Your chest rose and fell, your heart thudding against your ribcage as you swallowed your previous anxieties. The bathroom door opened and shut, and Ruggie’s footsteps became distant. You were going to have sex for the first time tonight. All you had to do was get rid of Grim.  

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ 

You spent the day texting back and forth with Ruggie. Carefully dancing around the ‘paid intimacy’ conversation. To your knowledge, any form of paid sex was illegal. Porn was the only exception. Your stomach was wound in a tight knot as you daydreamed what was to come. Usually, Leona had a special spot in your sexual fantasies. Now Ruggie had danced his way into your thoughts with no intentions of leaving until you were a satisfied customer. He told you that he was great with his hands. That he knew what he was doing. That you had nothing to worry about.  

You glanced at your phone every time the little grey bubble with the initials RB appeared. You needed to find a picture to replace it at some point. The next message left your eyes bulging in shock. Your face burning from embarrassment. The text came off as rude and you tucked your phone closer to your notebook. 

[RB]: are u a virgin?  [RB]: its not a big deal but it is  [RB]: i would be shocked if you are 

You had heard about guys refusing to have hook ups with virgins. It was too much effort; it had too many messy feelings and strings attached. You did think a first time was meant to be special, but your first choice wasn’t around anymore. This was also transactional. Ruggie was helping you blow off some steam, and you were paying him as a thank you for his service. He’s your friend. You’re his friend.  

[]: Yeah I am. I wasn’t exactly popular before I got here. 

You didn’t party or go out. You kept to yourself. Your friends would whisper to you about their sexcapades with their boyfriends or whoever they met over the weekend. There was no one in your previous world who made you fantasize and daydream like Leona did. And he wasn’t someone who wanted to entertain you. You noticed Ruggie read your message, typing then vanishing. It happened two more times before you got a response.  

[RB]: thats okay  [RB]: we can go at your pace theres no rush  [RB]: its fun i promise. were friends so dont worry about anything  [RB]: what time should i come over? 

The assurance over text made you wonder if he was doing it for the both of you. Ruggie clearly wasn’t having his first like you are. But he knew you were nervous. It made sense, he asked you twice if you were sure about doing this with him. You said yes, and you mean it. You told him that 2am would work best. If you couldn’t get Grim to stay the night with someone, you needed to make sure he was asleep enough to sneak someone into your dorm. Tomorrow was Saturday. You told Epel you would help him with some of his homework tomorrow afternoon. So tonight, you were free to stay up later than usual.  

Ruggie was happy with the arrangement. He had MagiShift practice with Epel. So, the younger student was your shared point of reference. You would pay Ruggie in cash. And everything would be fine between you. You guys would still be friend's afterwords. Ruggie would still eat lunch with you, and you guys would still hang out like before. Nothing would change.  

This is fine. 

The day droned on, you tried to beg Ace and Deuce to let Grim stay over. Telling them you were having girl issues and that you couldn’t take him yapping all night. To which Ace said “I thought girls could hold it in.” And Deuce punched him in the arm. The reason they couldn’t watch Grim was because they were leaving that night to visit Deuce’s mom. She needed help moving out of the old apartment and the boys were going to assist. Grim would never stay the night with Jack since ‘he has fleas’, and you were going to see Epel tomorrow.  

You dried the dishes and Grim stood on the counter to help you put them away using magic. “We can’t sleep together? But we always share a bed!” He pouted with his ears folded against his head. His tail flicked as you let go of another dish, watching it float into the cabinet before grabbing the next one to dry. “I know! But I mean, the greatest mages sleep alone. So, I thought that it would be nice for you to have some space. Even if it’s just for tonight.” You suggested as you wiped the inside of the ceramic bowl dry.  

Ramshackle had plenty of rooms. And sometimes you just needed space. But Grim was so clingy. He flicked his tail again as you let go of the bowl so it could float into the cabinet. “Hm, I guess you’re right... But if you get scared, just come to me! I’ll protect you!” The monster was smug and you smiled to yourself. "Of course.” 

With tonights plans, you knew you would be crying out. But it wouldn’t be for Grim’s help. When the two of you finished the dishes, you gave Grim a bath and walked him down the hall to one of the furnished rooms. You brought him a nightlight, and Grim promised you he had no issue sleeping on his own. If he was going to be a great mage, he needed to take the first step towards independence. You closed the door and started your own nightly routine. With a few extra steps.  

You showered and washed away any anxieties that lingered. Ruggie would be visiting in a few hours. Part of you felt guilty for using sex as an exchange for the money. The hyena offered and seemed happy about it. As you dried your hair you started to get cold feet the longer the night went on. Maybe there was something else he could do. Maybe it would be best to give him the money and just have him pay you back later.  

You shaved your armpits as you sat on the rim of your tub. Once finished, you slipped on a clean, oversized shirt. With a clean razor, you shaved your legs. It might be too late to call things off. It was your first time. The money is going towards something important. Ruggie promised nothing would change between you. A shaky sigh left your lips as you looked your legs over. Nice and smooth. You dried off one final time and settled into your room. You laid in bed with the dark surrounding you. Your phone kept you company as you scrolled through MagiCam, watching the minutes melt away into hours. The soft ping from your phone made your heart jump into your throat. It was 2:45am. The message was from Ruggie. 

[RB]: you up? 

You are. You responded, peering over your phone towards your window. You could see a shadow that shouldn’t be there. The knock made you gasp as you shot up in bed with wide eyes. You slept on the second floor.  

[RB]: surprise lol 

You threw the blankets off of your body and darted out of bed. Running to the window to unlock it. Ruggie was sitting on his broom, waving at you with his phone in his other hand. 

“Yo-”  “Are you nuts- Don't do that you could fall!” You scolded him with a click of your tongue as you pushed the window up. “I ain’t gonna fall.” He snickered as you backed away and let him climb into your bedroom. A wave of insecurity washed over you.  

Should you have styled your hair? Beastmen are usually sensitive to perfume, so you didn’t put any on. You didn’t think to do your makeup. An oversized shirt with nothing underneath isn’t exactly sexy, but you didn’t have anything else that could truly ‘set the mood’. Even if you are paying Ruggie, maybe you should have done something special. It was your first time, all you really did was shower and kick Grim out for the night.  

Ruggie leaned his broom against the wall and closed the window. You could see he had a small brown duffle bag slung over his shoulder. You could feel you mouth going bone dry. Your heart pounded in your ears and your chest began to ache. Ruggie is here to fuck you. Right now. Ruggie is taking your virginity, and you are paying him for it.  

“You okay?” His voice brought you back as your eyelids fluttered and you nodded quickly. He’s wearing jeans, a plain black t-shirt and a green jacket he left unzipped. You watched him ease off his white shoes and leave them near his propped up broom. The hyena’s eyes softened as he looked you over. It was obvious you weren’t okay. “Yeah! Just excited...” You forced a smile as you made your way back to bed. Now sitting on the edge as you folded your hands together. “Should I... Do something?” You asked him for guidance as your brows knit together. “Just get comfortable.” You could hear him smiling as you responded with a soft ‘okay’. Lacing your fingers, pressing the pads of your pointers against each other. You did everything to stop your hands from shaking. You were content with staring at your now balled up fists while Ruggie sat on his knees and dug through the dark brown duffle bag. “I brought all sorts of stuff we can use.” He commented with a proud grin. “Some of this we might not need. But ya’ never know. I got lube, n’ condoms. I think I have a toy in here but that might be too advanced for you.” He snickered as your eyes started to trail over in his direction.  

Ruggie’s hands pulled out a myriad of things. A small square silver packet you assumed was a condom. Something small, round, and silicone. And more. He was holding up a small glass jar with a strange looking pink cream inside. “Cool…” You mumbled and lowered your eyes. Sex was often depicted as magical. A romantic experience where your clothes would fall to the floor, and you would be a mess of sweat and nectar.  

Here you are shaking like a leaf, wearing an oversized pajama shirt while Ruggie prepared for what was to come. “You sure you’re good?” Ruggie asked with an added layer of concern in his tone. You nearly jumped out of your skin. “Oh! Yeah, I’m great- Peachy.” You swallowed with a swift nod as he eyed you over with a look of suspicion. You paid him to come over. The least you could do is follow through. You watched him stand, his eyes locking with yours as a smile began to form. “Liar.” 

 Your stomach dropped. Now he calls you out. 

Ruggie inched closer and closer, and you silently watched. Allowing him to close in on you like easy prey waiting to be gobbled up. The weight on the mattress shifted as he pressed his knee against the foot of your bed. You pulled your legs up, your feet now pressing against the sheets as he crawled up to you. And you crawled away. “You aren’t forcing yourself, right?” You asked him under a whisper. Your gaze never broke away from his. “Course not. I offered in the first place, it’s a win-win. Are you, forcing yourself?” Ruggie asked and you shook your head. “Of course not... That’s why I let you into my room...” You were just nervous.  

The mattress continued to creak and rock with your combined movements. You now sat with your back against the headboard, the pillows under you as you cautiously pulled at the hem of your oversized shirt to remain covered. There was nowhere for you to run. Ruggie’s lips are now only centimeters away from yours. The beastman was seated between your parted legs. “You don’t have to be nervous. What, you think I’m scary?” His tone was a soft murmur. Carrying that playfulness you adored. His warm breath tickled your skin as you nervously glanced down at his legs. The scratchy fabric of his dark colored jeans seemed to put you at ease. “I’m allowed to be nervous…” Your voice was meek. Ruggie isn’t scary. And kissing wasn’t that complex. You have seen it in movies and books. Of course you’ve seen it in amateur porn. But now that Ruggie was so close it was much different.  

The scent of bitter coffee lingered on his breath. The feeling of his rough jeans and the softness of his hair tickled your sensitive flesh. His droopy eyes weren’t housing the usual intensity. It was much gentler now. This felt less and less like something transactional. Like there was a hidden motive behind the offer Ruggie made. “Sex usually starts like this, right?” You asked with a soft swallow. “Oh, it can start however you want it to.” Your skin prickled from excitement as his hands gripped your hips and pulled you across the mattress.  

Your shirt began to slip upwards, your face burning as he leaned closer. Your bare crotch was now flush against his denim covered one. Your knees hooked over his hips as his lips ghosted over yours. You rested on your back against the pillows.  

“You wanna feel good with me?” You did. “Yeah...” You reached out and snaked your arms around his shoulders. Your fingers brushed over the soft cotton of his jacket. “You sure?” One final confirmation. Your last chance to turn back. You didn’t want to turn back. 

“Yeah.” You responded, and his lips meshed with yours. His tongue felt sticky, clinging to yours as you wriggled underneath him. Your hips rolling against his and your heels sliding against the sheets. The taste of coffee on his breath made you lean in for more. It made you dizzy as your kisses quickly grew messy. You inhaled through your nose, catching the scent of his citrusy shampoo lingering in his messy blond hair. As he started to pull away, you didn’t realize you tried chasing him with your mouth. Sitting up until one of his hands eased you back against the pillows with a gentle push to the shoulder.  

“Didja shower?” Ruggie’s voice was soft, and you gave him a soft ‘mmhm’ in response as he removed his jacket. Tossing it haphazardly to the floor as you nervously flexed your toes against the blankets beneath you. “Okay good.” He smiled down at you before crawling off you and making his way over to his bag. “Trust, we don’t have to race through this.” The hyena had retrieved the little jar. Leaving it on your nightstand for future use. “I know...” You didn’t want to kill the mood by asking him to slow down. 

If Ruggie took the lead, you would be fine. He was on top of you again, kissing and sneaking his hands under your oversized shirt. “Lovin’ the lack of panties.” He teased as he caught your bottom lip between his sharp teeth. Your face began to burn as he continued to work his tongue against yours. You thought it would be easier if you didn’t wear any. “We’re you excited for me to come over?” He asked, his voice sweet and leaving you in a state of hypnosis. Ruggie’s fingers had a roughness that made your skin prickle. Gliding across your flesh as he kissed along your jawline, allowing you to cling to him as your shirt rode higher and higher. Your hands tangled in his hair as you mumbled out a weak ‘uh huh’. Fingers surfing through the thick, sunkissed waves as you reached towards his ears.  

A gasp was yanked out of your throat when he palmed your breasts. Your legs clamped around him when he kissed your pulse point; and you accidentally pinched his ears. His sudden growl was animalistic enough to startle you. Hands shooting away and curling against your chest as the two of you separated. Ruggie sat up, looking down at you with wide eyes as his ears flattened. 

His expression faded from irritation. It softened, and he was now pouting. “Heyyy don’t grab so rough on poor ol’ Ruggie.” He cooed playfully. He wasn’t mad. But if you got your ear pinched it wouldn’t feel good either. “Sorry.” You whispered as the tension between you vanished. He lowered again, relaxing against you as he took one of your hands and guided it towards his head. “Touch ‘em like this.” He instructed with a smile, moving his fingers with yours to show you how he liked it. He pulled away and you began to gently pet the inner fur. The outside was much coarser.  

A rumble vibrated through his chest, he was purring. His hands roamed along your body again, and you began to relax beneath him. Flinching and swallowing your moans as his skilled, freckled hands palmed your tits. Teasing your budding nipples with his skilled fingers. His lips found your throat and peppered kisses against the skin. His head just beneath yours as he rested on top of you. One of your thighs fell victim to the slow rolls of his hips. 

You could feel how hard he was getting as he ground his denim covered crotch against your leg. The roughness made your toes curl tight as you attempted to speak up. “You can take your clothes off... If you want.” You whined as he slowed to a stop, looking up at you with his big droopy eyes and an expression of content. He didn’t say anything as he sat up on his knees. Now you could see he was hard. You needed way more than kissing and rubbing. You wanted Ruggie to fill you. To satiate an appetite you didn’t realize you had.  

“Arms up,” He instructed as he removed his shirt first. You could see almost every inch of his toned body. His scattered brown freckled on his tanned skin. A thin trail of shiny gold hair that led from his belly button and into the waistband of his jeans. “clothes are comin’ off. Both of us.” He tossed his shirt to the floor, where it landed presumably near his jacket. You obeyed and raised your arms. You wondered if he had used Laugh with Me on you when his tongue was in your mouth. The submission came easy for you. Giving up your control and putting your trust in him. 

The beastman helped guide your bunched up shirt up and over your head. Once your face was revealed again, he greeted you with a playful kiss. “There you are.” He beamed as he took your crumpled shirt and began to fold it. Remaining sat on his knees with a smirk. “Now we get to the really fun part.” Ruggie snickered as you tried to stop your legs from shaking. It was a mix of adrenaline and arousal keeping your skin on fire. Your face burning and a sheet of sweat building on your skin. 

He leaned over, making sure your shirt landed safely on top of his own. “What do you think about when you touch yourself?” He asked as he reached over to grab the little jar, screwing off the cap as the air filled with a sweet, floral smell. If you weren’t so turned on you would’ve hit him with a pillow for asking something so vulgar. You screwed your eyes shut as you thought back to lazy afternoons when you had privacy. Very rare moments you made the best of.  

You parted your lips to speak, but a moan escaped, and you opened your eyes again. Ruggie had taken whatever was in that little pot onto his fingers, rubbing gently at your aching clit with the pads of his longest fingers. Slow, tight circles as he encouraged you to speak with a hum. “I won’t be mad. I jus’ wanna know. Make things a lil’ more fun.” The hyena snickered, and your eyes fluttered shut again. “N... Nothing much...” You swallowed as you tried to clamp your legs shut. But with Ruggie settled between them, there was nothing you could do. “Nothing much?” He parroted back to you. He leaned over, kissing your cheek as you wrapped your arms around him again. Clinging as his lips found your jawline now.  

“Is it somethin’ specific you think about?” The hyena was digging for an answer now as his mouth re-attached to your throat. Kissing and licking at your sensitive flesh before he began to nip and suck. Leaving welts that you begged silently to not bruise. “Anyone?” He whispered as his tongue roamed over your jugular, and you felt the faint scrape of his teeth. His jaws were so strong he could eat animal bones like potato chips. He promised he wouldn’t get mad. And the two of you are friends. Your toes flexed as he slowly slipped a finger inside of your aching cunt. Your breath hitched in your throat as he pumped and curled slowly. His thumb replaced the longer digits as he massaged your throbbing clit. It was warm. And you wondered if the substance he coated his fingers with was like an aphrodisiac. The wet sounds of his fingers toying with your entrance made your moans fall easier from your mouth. “You can tell me.” Ruggie encouraged sweetly as you felt a bead of sweat rolling down your temple.  

Having someone touch and tease your pussy was way more intense than masturbating. Maybe the substance was magical. Maybe it was just lube and you were beyond turned on. “Um... I thought...” Your chest heaved as his finger pushed up against a rough patch deep within you. Rubbing the bundle of nerves as you croaked out; “O-Oh Leona...”   “Leona?”  

His movements came to an abrupt halt as he looked down at you with a frown. His tone was sharp; he sounded offended that you mentioned being attracted to the previous Housewarden of all people. You felt bad, but Ruggie said he wouldn’t be mad. “You asked me... I’m being honest.” You grumbled as you looked down to see his thumb gently swiping over your sensitive pearl. “Well Leona sucks.” Ruggie growled as his finger pumped even slower. The push of his finger made your eyes start to roll back into your head. Yeah, he was mad. 

His hand stopped and his finger removed itself. A yelp passed your lips when your body was being folded. Your knees hit the soft blankets as Ruggie’s warm breath teased your drooling pussy. “Y-You don’t have to-” Your voice croaked as he dragged the flat of his tongue against your folds. Lips closing around your clit as he gave it a harsh suck. Your hands shot between your legs to hold onto his head. Thumbs gently rubbing the insides of his ears the way he liked it. “Leona’s lazy ass could never do what I can.” He growled against your cunt. Licking and sucking, resting your legs over his shoulders as he ate you out.  

The pumping of his finger returned, and you fought the desire to rock your hips into his face. Your moans came out strangled as you did your best to keep it down. Grim was down the hall, but the walls in Ramshackle were thin. You were helpless and exposed to Ruggie's newfound hunger. “Does it feel good?” He asked with a smile, mouthing at the fleshy pearl as you struggled to answer. A mangled ‘yes’ was all you could offer as your walls flexed and rubbed the beastman’s fingers. “I can tell.” The hyena’s skilled tongue rubbed against your twitching pussy. Devouring all of the clear nectar that came leaking out of you.  

Your skin was on fire. You felt like your head was spinning as he worked faster and faster, encouraging you to finish. That it would be okay. That he would drink everything you gave him. That you didn’t have to say anything anymore; your sounds were enough praise. Your heart was out of control. Tears welled in your eyes from the intensity as Ruggie’s name came out garbled on your tongue. You chanted it over and over. Unable to say anything else. 

Ruggie.  Ruggie.  Ruggie. 

Your hips started to buck against his face. Your back curved away from the bed in a neat arch as you whispered something akin to ‘wait’. Your moans and whines came out as weak sobs and struggled breaths as the coil in your stomach wound tighter and tighter. You pulled away from his ears, not wanting to pinch him again. Instead, you grabbed a fistful of his hair, and your other hand clutched the pillow beneath your head. “I- I think I’m-” You whispered as the tears came rolling down your face.  

Ruggie pulled his mouth away. You looked down with your bottom lip catching between your teeth. Your cunt fluttered pathetically, a silent plea for his attention as he eased his hands away from your skin. You still held onto his hair, but didn’t move. “You’re what?” He asked with a grin. The moon began to pour through your window. Revealing the wet fluids coating his lips and his chin. How his hair was a mess and bangs wildly pushed back as he softly panted for air. His blueish grey eyes seemed darker, hungrier as he waited for you to answer. 

 His grin became sly as you pulled your hand away from his hair. Your legs once draped over his shoulders were returned to rest loosely over his hips. “Hm? I think there’s something you want. You jus’ gotta tell me.” Ruggie cooed as he rolled his thumb over your clit, eliciting a gasp. You couldn’t risk your built up orgasm dulling. “You want... My fingers? My mouth?” You wanted him to fuck you. “Um... Can you..?” The meekness in your voice returned as he used his free hand to unbutton his jeans. A string of drool began rolling down your chin. You wanted to suck his dick too. 

“Uh huh?” His thumb continued as you closed your eyes. “Can you put it in?” You asked weakly and he snickered in response. “Put what in? You have to say it, or I won’t know.” The hyena was teasing you as he stimulated your clit. “Your... Dick?” The skin on your face was on fire as your wet eyes fluttered shut. “Please Ruggie?” You felt him jerk beneath you. He must have liked you using your manners. 

“Since you asked so nicely, I guess I’ll give it to you.” He pat your thigh gently as he finally discarded the rest of his clothes. You could see the freckles lining his shoulders and speckling parts of his torso like a scattered constellation. Part of you couldn’t imagine being with anyone else after this. Seeing Ruggie in such an intimate way really wasn’t something you could consider ‘friendly’ anymore.  

What would this be called? 

Your mind wandered as you drank up the sight of him with your eyes. Your lips went agape as the wet crown of his cock rubbed against your clit. “You ready?” The hyena asked and you nodded vigorously. It was being slathered in sticky pre-cum, along with your soaked folds. When he started to glide his shaft against your opening your heart skipped a beat. It felt… Spikey. 

Your eyes widened and you started to crawl away out of anxiety, but Ruggie quickly grabbed your ankle and pulled you back over. “Hey, hey, hey, what the hell? Don’t go anywhere.” He grumbled as you glanced up at him with a frown. You didn’t really think about the anatomical differences between the two of you. “Um…” You weren’t sure what to say. But Ruggie could tell you looked worried. “Do you wanna take a break?” His concern was genuine. But you didn’t want to stop the momentum. If you did, you couldn’t come back and finish. “I just...” You trailed off as Ruggie nodded for you to continue. “… I thought… I didn’t expect yours to be not… Smooth.” You muttered awkwardly as Ruggie’s face contorted into confusion. “What?”  

You didn’t really look for beastman porn. You tried once, but after seeing a mermaid sex video you never tried again. “You wanna touch it? It’s not gonna hurt or anything.” He offered and gently took your wrist. Guiding your hand towards his shaft. Ruggie shuddered when your fingers curled around him, stroking slowly to feel the fleshy spines against your palm. They didn’t hurt. They felt more like rubbery bumps instead of spikes. It felt good. “You can take it.” His encouragement was sweet as you both began to guide the head of his cock towards your hole. 

You didn’t notice that he wasn’t wearing a condom until now. But... You didn’t mind. You had heard raw sex feels amazing. And Ruggie is your friend. It would be fine. “Do you know what a safeword is?” The hyena sounded breathless, slowly rocking his hips against yours. The tip threatened to breach past your sight walls and nestle deep inside of you. You nodded. “It’s ‘spots’ between us. Okay? So if you don’t like something, just say it and we’ll stop.” He spoke like he was out of breath, and you nodded again. You watched him pout, and you grunted when he grabbed your cheeks in his palm. His hips continued their slow rocking, and you couldn’t help but join in. “No nodding,” he grumbled. You could feel him starting to push inside. Becoming impatient as his thrusts began to go from teasing to very shallow penetration. 

“Spots... Spots. I got it.” You answered him with what left of your voice you could muster. He snickered again, easing himself inside of you as your walls convulsed and stretched to accommodate. You wanted to scream out from the otherworldly sensation. But Ruggie’s mouth found yours. He was on top of you, his cock buried inside as your sweaty skin worked as an adhesive to keep you both attached. Your heels dug into his back as he gave you messy kisses. Pulling his hand from your face to palm at your tit as he allowed you to adjust to his size. Giving you an occasional thrust that made you jerk and whine into his mouth.  

The rounded spines stimulated your inner walls. Making you overwhelmingly sensitive as you wrapped your arms around his body. Feeling the muscles in his toned back, being mindful not to scratch him. His hips began a steady pace as he rutted in and out of you. The erotic smack of skin caused you to tighten, your orgasm was building quickly as you closed your eyes. The brush of his wiry hairs against your clit made you whine. The way his cock kissed that patch of nerves inside of you that his fingers hit left you struggling to breathe. How the spines lining his shaft in a uniform pattern was driving you insane from each grind against your velvety walls. 

You had no idea this is what sex felt like. In between kisses you could hear and feel Ruggie moaning into your mouth. His tongue tangled with yours as he fucked into you. The hyena’s short nails started to dig into your skin the moment he held you by your hips. “You... You won’t care if I cum inside, right?” He asked softly. It sounded like pleading.  

You knew that you were close too. The wet slick made his cock glide in and out of you faster and faster. If he came inside, would you get pregnant? It wasn’t a guarentee. Right? You didn’t want him to pull out. You didn’t want him to stop. “It’s okay.” You whispered, feeling the hyena bite at your bottom lip before the kissing resumed. His cock throbbed, and twitched deep inside of you. Your combined moans were smothered with messy kisses to keep the noise to a minimum. You warned him with a hoarse breath you were cumming. Your walls clamped around his cock as Ruggie pulled away and buried his face in the crook of your neck. The glimpse you had of his tanned face had taken a tomato color. 

You felt him tense on top of you as you let out a high pitched sigh, gasping for air as your legs shook. There was an intense warmth that filled you. The flood of thick sperm that mixed with your clear juices. The two of you remained still, you could feel Ruggie’s heart beating against yours as he remained on top of you. Slowly shifting with a soft groan. “N... No...” He swallowed as he slowly lifted his head. “We... We have to clean up...” He panted softly as you continued to hold onto him.  

You wanted to stay together a little longer. You didn’t want him to pull out. “If we stay like this...” He trailed off. You understood what he was trying to say. If you bathed in the afterglow too long; you would forget that this was transactional. And the thin line of friendship and something more could get blurred.  

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ 

You sat in the tub with your back against Ruggie’s chest. The two of you soaked in the steaming water as the morning sun was only a few hours away now. The beastman would have to leave after this. The two of you relaxed in a mutual silence, but you couldn’t shake the emptiness you felt. You knew that he was your friend. You knew that you were just paying him for some of the intimacy you always wanted to experience. But looking back on it now? It felt like you lost a big battle.  

You lost your virginity. Paid him to do it. And you of course did not gain a boyfriend in any shape or form. Ruggie Bucchi is your friend, and your classmate. Nothing beyond that. “I feel a lil’ bad now.” The hyena broke the silence first as you craned your neck back to look up at him. “What’s wrong?” You asked as he stretched out his legs from beneath the water. A pit formed in your stomach. Was it something you did? Was the sex bad? Ouch, hopefully neither. “I never had sex with a virgin before.” Oh. “I’m just worried about you.” He commented as you relaxed against him.  

The worry lingered, but it was bearable now. “I don’t want you to think things are weird between us. I’ll still sit with you in class and snag you food at lunch.” He smiled as the worry had melted away. He draped an arm around you as you both sank together in the steamy water. “I know. We’re still friends.” You understood what you had gotten into. It was made clear when he asked you if it was okay. “I still like-” Ruggie paused as your eyes widened. “I like hanging out with you.” He corrected himself as you felt your chest ache. Your eyes closed and the two of you sighed. “Maybe we can do more next time...” The hyena murmured and your eyes opened again. 

You caught your reflection staring back at you in the water. Ruggie wants to do this again. There was a possibility of a ‘next time’.  

[meltedbluecaterpillar]

Can I Stay the Night?

ch. i - you are here! - ch. iii - ch. iv

A/N: I am here to see you again. Sorry, it's been a while hasn't it?

tags: Ruggie Bucchi x fem!reader, suggestive content wc: 4k+

It wasn’t uncommon for the two of you to be so physically close. Last year you and Ruggie had managed to become friends. Despite everything that happened before winter break between you, him and Leona. After the incident there was a newfound closeness. Especially between you and Ruggie. You ate lunch together (with Grim), studied together, and even fell asleep in Ramshackle on the rickety little couch in the foyer. Shoulders brushing and hands just millimeters apart. Only to be awoken by the ghosts teasing or Grim trying to kick the hyena out.  

On a rare occasion after he finished work on weekends; Ruggie would come and eat dinner with you and Grim. Claiming that his own dorm was too far of a walk. You didn’t mind at all. And on even rarer occasions you would offer him one of the many guest rooms (to Grim’s displeasure) when he looked too exhausted to make his trek to Savanaclaw. A rumor began circulating on campus that you and Ruggie were dating. Said rumor was quickly debunked by you and Ruggie.  

You were just friends who liked skinship and spending time together. He was your age and easy to talk to. Nothing more. Even if it felt like it should be sometimes. Your shoulder was flush against the hyena’s. The two of you sat next to each other for professor Trein’s lesson. You took notes and all of the information went in one ear and out the other. You had no reason to retain any of it, but you didn’t want to look out of place. As the lesson droned on you could feel the speed of your pen scratching against your notebook paper starting to slow. The room’s warmth and Ruggie’s closeness left you with a pleasant coziness. You would rather nap than write down a bunch of history dates.  

The sunlight pooled through the tall classroom windows offering a sunny, yellow glow. The scent of powdery sandalwood lingered on Ruggie’s uniform blazer. Which only served to pull you in closer. Your eyes began to flutter shut and you exhaled through your nose with a huff. Your chin now propped up in the palm of your hand, holding up the weight of your skull.  

There was a soft and rhythmic tap of a pen against paper.  

It wasn’t someone trying to recall lost information. The sound was almost like a knock. Like it was to get your attention. Your eyes peeled themselves open and you looked down as the soft shuffle of pages flipping and inching across the long table. It was Ruggie’s notebook, and a tiny drawing greeting you. An ink pen sad face with freckles and big round ears.  

‘I’m bored so you need to be bored with me’ was written underneath the face. The hyena wanted to make conversation to pass the time in a very traditional way. Of course you weren’t against it. You sat right next to each other so it wouldn’t look suspicious at all. Your thigh brushed against his from underneath the table as you leaned in to start writing in the notebook, flipping your own shut with a smile.  

You drew a similar sad face to his with your own likeness. You were just as bored as he was. The two of you went back and forth. Confirming that you would still hang out after with the addition of Grim. Before you knew it, the entire page had been filled with little conversations that started at one point, and ended with the beginning of an entirely new topic. Your arms were flush together as you started to fill a new page with conversations others would deem meaningless. Shoulders snug and comfortable as he locked his leg around yours. An attempt to close the distance. A hidden barrier between you both. You never minded the close contact with Ruggie. But it felt different. A good kind of different. The two of you struggled to contain your smiles and giggles as you made inside jokes and references only the two of you knew. Bringing up how horribly broke the two of you are. Line after line of shared text that never seemed to get old.  

Then the conversation turned to how you both spent the summer. Ruggie got a bunch of part time jobs and took care of his grandma. The way he wrote seemed a little slower. Like he was hiding something from you. ‘How is your grammy?’ you wrote curiously. Even though Ruggie was clearly a people person, he wasn’t very open about his personal life at all. It was hard to ask him certain questions because he was so talented about dodging what he didn’t like and steering you towards an entirely new topic with ease. You watched in silence as he wrote slowly against the paper. The pen scratching slowly as if it were whispering to you a very important secret. 

‘She’s better than she was’ 

The way he answered made you frown. You went to press your pen against the page, but Ruggie had started to write again. ‘She’s better than she was but it’s cool I’m gonna check on her this weekend. But let's not talk about that. You have to eat Lilia’s food or your head will explode; which are you choosing?’ Ruggie snickered as you scrunched your nose in disgust and gently elbowed his side. Muttering ‘gross’ under your breath. You ignored his question with a request of something more tasteful. And he obliged with a game of Would You Rather? As he began to write out his question, you lifted your eyes from the page. A warmth began blooming in your chest as your eyes soaked in the image before you.  

Ruggie isn’t as ugly as he makes himself out to be. He’s actually really cute.  

Skin that was tanned and a soft shade of caramel. Freckles dotting sparsely on the backs of his hands. As his face the dotting was far more prominent. His biscuit blond mop of messy hair that was strategically teased to emphasize the charm his face held.  

The way his eyes looked so tired, no matter how energetic he claimed to be. The greyish blue with all sorts of emotions bottled within them. Like a storming ocean waiting to pull you in and swallow you whole with so many of its hidden feelings. The way his hands always looked busy. How he held his pen and occasionally twirled it among his digits with ease and precision not even Ace could replicate. How he kept his nails short. How long his fingers were. How he had grown at least three inches since your last talk. How he hides his tail beneath the blazer he finally grew into. How his teeth were so big when he smiled wide and genuine. How he always smelled good. How you liked when he would touch you. How Ruggie was so close in more ways than one. And how you didn’t mind him getting closer. How you wanted him to get closer. 

How you wished he would be so much closer.  

You never let yourself pay attention to Ruggie since you had gotten so hung up over your Leona crush. And Ruggie is your friend, not an object. There was a soft tap of a pen against the page. You blinked in alarm, seeing your eyes lock with Ruggie’s. He was ginning, his chin in the palm of his hand as he tapped twice, and you looked down.  

‘You see somethin you like?’ 

Your face started to burn in embarrassment as he snickered under his breath. Obviously picking on you. You hestitated before slowly writing back with your bottom lip caught between your teeth. ‘Maybe’ and the conversation carried on as normal. The two of you cuddled up and writing page after page in Ruggie’s notebook.  

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ 

Class had finally ended, and you raced home with Grim behind you so you could change out of your uniform and into something much cuter. Sun bleached jeans that were just a smidge too big on your body. They left a sizeable gap against your back when you sat and they scrunched and dragged against the ground when you weren’t wearing shoes. It was starting to cool so you decided to wear a black Night Raven College sweatshirt in place of a short sleeve. You tried to match your socks, but to no avail. You decided on one with purple and blue stripes, the other was plain white. Not that they could be seen once you put on your white sneakers. 

It wasn’t like this was a date. It was a friendly hang out. A buddy-buddy visit to the island town at the base of the hill. You had no reason to overdress just for coffee. You sat on the edge of your bed looking at your phone. A frown crossed your lips as you stared at the MagiCam post. An update in Leona’s life away from NRC. The photo was a little blurry. But you could see that it was his large hand holding a coconut with a strange pinkish liquid inside. Of course, you liked the picture. 

You didn’t want to stalk his page. What if he found out? He would never let it go and you would never live it down. But you did miss him. Even if you knew subconsciously you had no chance, it filled you with an unfamiliar loneliness. As you began to scroll, an idea came to you.  

You quickly got to your feet and left your phone on the bed. It was a short walking distance to your desk where you opened up a small wooden box. It was lined in elegant and intricate carvings, a gift from Vil for your birthday. The inside glittered with an assortment of jewelry and accessories. All gifts from both friends and some of your ‘admirers’ on campus.  

Being the only girl attending class had more cons than pros sometimes. Last year, just breathing in the direction of one of the many black clad uniforms made you an object of desire. But thankfully you had plenty of friends who didn’t see you that way so you weren’t to be bothered by unwanted attention. Your biggest knight in shining armor was Epel to your surprise.  

As you smiled at old memories, you sifted through your trinket box for the one piece that outshone the others. You smiled when you retrieved the thin piece of jewelry and fastened it on your left wrist. A bracelet made of gold. Both thin and delicate, plain to others, but you adored it more than anything you had ever received. It glittered under the burning sun and shimmered under the pale moon. You always received compliments when you wore it. The way it wrapped perfectly around your wrist with little to no space between your skin and the beautiful accessory. What made it so important was that it was a White Day gift from none other than Leona Kingscholar. 

For Valentine’s Day you made him chocolates molded into the shape of various veggies. He laughed in amusement and you went off to pass out your other treats to your favorite headaches. Ruggie was given a special made chocolate donut, and Jack got a friendly jar of pear pudding and chocolate drizzle on top. After a month had passed and White Day arrived, you had gotten a text from Leona. He politely asked you to meet him in the Botanical Gardens after classes ended for the day.  

You obeyed his request of course.  

The beastman approached with a smile and a flick of his long, skinny tail. With a soft purr, he proudly informed you how he found your little joke amusing. Along with how your friendly hyena enjoyed his gift from you. Leona then told you to hold out your wrist. And with those striking green eyes burning into your shorter figure, he gifted you the gold bracelet.  

He lifted your arm into the air to admire the accessory with a pleased look and a soft chuckle. ‘It’s from someone who wouldn't mind getting something sweet from you again.’ His smooth voice made you flush from your ears and down to your collar. He told you that he wished you luck, and left you there in the Botanical Gardens slack jawed and shocked.  

Even if it wasn’t directly a romantic gesture, you still adored the gift. You admired it quietly, not noticing Grim pushing open your door with a scowl. “Are you done gettin’ girly?! I’m starving to death!” Grim whined, hanging onto the doorknob with his tail swishing in annoyance. You jolted in surprise, turning to face him as you lowered your hands to your sides with your face warming in embarrassment. “Yeah, I’m ready. We can go.” You followed Grim out after grabbing your phone to stick in your back pocket and your purse to sling over your shoulder.  

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ 

Ruggie yawned as you stood beside him looking up at the chalkboard menu. Grim was eyeballing the assortments of breads and pastries behind the counters glass casing. The scent of coffee and pastries lingered in the air. Any previous fatigue from the school day had been eliminated. “I usually get iced coffee... But drinkin’ somethin’ new could be good for me.” He grumbled with his arms crossed over the front of his beige colored short sleeve.   

Your eyes scanned the hundreds of drinkable options and combinations. Some of them you remembered making during the summer while you worked. “I want something like ice cream.” As enjoyable as the bitter taste could be, you were in the mood for something sweet. “Fake coffee fan. Drink it black or don’t drink it.” The beastman joked and you retaliated with a gentle elbow to his side. “I’ve seen you eat your own body weight in sugar. But I’m the fake coffee fan?” Ruggie held up his hands in defense. “Hey, what I put in my body is between me, and I.” He joked as the two of you approached the counter. 

You ordered Grim’s special French Toast and a chocolate milk as promised. You got yourself a strange looking latte that was just caffeinated ice cream in a tall cup with fluffy whipped cream and colorful sprinkles on top. Ruggie had got himself a caramel iced coffee with two extra shots of espresso. Technically getting something new since he usually got white chocolate. His reflexes were much faster than yours. And to your surprise he had paid for you and Grim. Before you could question him, he gently elbowed your side. Just as you did moments before. “You can get us next time.” Ruggie snickered and with his hands easing into the pockets of his large, black hand-me down jeans.The two of you went to sit down. Grim following in tow with a scowl. 

“So you’re callin’ us poor!” He scoffed and swiped a paw at Ruggie’s tail. You snapped your head in the monster's direction. Ruggie rolled his eyes and smiled as you frowned and slid into a booth across from the beastman. “He doesn’t mean that.” You corrected as the monster crawled into the booth beside you and sat with his arms crossed. Thankfully Grim was tall enough that he could reach the table without a booster seat.  

“I’m allowed to pay because I want to.” Ruggie shrugged and leaned back against the deep blue vinyl. “Not because I don’t think the Prefect isn’t capable of it. Because I know you don’t have any money ya’ lil’ mooch.” He teased as the two started going back and forth. You didn’t know why Grim was so hostile towards Ruggie. Maybe it was a cat thing? Maybe it was because Grim was getting older? You planned to question him later.  

Everything arrived and all previous hostility between the pair was dissipated. Grim held his fork between his furry paws with large sparkling eyes as he started to poke and prod at his French toast. Ruggie looked unsatisfied looking into the glass of gold colored caramel and soil shaded caffeine. “Is it not what you wanted?” You tilted your head in confusion. Stirring your straw around your cream and sugar filled cup.  

“Noooo… Nothing like that.” Ruggie seemed distant. Even though you were just inches from brushing his fingers... It felt like Ruggie was miles away from you. “I’m fine I’m just a lil’ tired.” He shrugged, not looking up as he took a sip. He did look tired, but not in a physical way. He looked mentally exhausted. “Did something happen yesterday?” You pried carefully. You knew how closed off Ruggie could be.  

And then you remembered the conversation the two of you had on paper. Was he thinking about his grandma? “Well two of the new frosh got into a fight but that ain’t my department to worry about.” He smiled in amusement. The memory was fresh and he had grown fond over it so quickly. “Um... Can I ask you something?” You glanced down at your cup and then at Grim. He wasn’t paying attention at all. He was on his way into a sugar coma.  

When you looked at Ruggie, your eyes met. His greyish blue gaze seemed guarded. “About earlier, you mentioned your grandma was getting better. Did she get sick?” You didn’t want to be so direct. But if you beat around the bush, Ruggie would never open up to you. His right ear swiveled and he started to smile. But something about the expression looked off. “She’s just old. You get sick easier when you get old.” The beastman’s posture began to sag as he stared down at his iced coffee. You started to feel worried. “But you she’s okay right?” A feeling of regret washed over you. Maybe it was too soon to ask. “Basically.” The regret settled into your bones. “Are you sure?” You wanted to try and lighten the feeling of regret by getting confirmation. But your attempt to comfort was more like a quickly drawn blade. One you noticed was causing the beastman to be even more distant. “Am I sure?” He parroted back with his expression becoming even more strained.  

“I didn’t mean-”  “I know, I’m just playin’.” He snickered softly as he started to relax. You regretted asking now. But you could see and feel how it caused a strain between you. Ruggie isn’t an open person. Even if something bothered him, he would always give you a round-about answer. The three of you finished and began walking back to Ramshackle. Grim was in your arms, his head against your shoulder as he snored softly. You and Ruggie were quiet on your walk. Admiring the birds and bugs as you silently thought of how to apologize. You couldn’t tell if he was upset or not.  

The beastman still gently brushed his shoulder against yours. And the tension seemed to have faded. Ruggie had walked you all the way back to Ramshackle and you wished that you had more time before saying your goodbyes. But the autumn sun was already setting along the tree line. “Thank you for walking me back.” Your voice was softer than expected and Ruggie gently pat your back. “Don’t look all sad. I ain’t mad or anything if that’s what your worried about.” He shrugged as you glanced up at him with a worried expression. “You wouldn’t tell me if I made you mad either way.” You grumbled and Ruggie’s expression became smug. “You know me so well.” The beastman cooed as the two of you now stood in front of the gate. “Since you wanna be so nosey I’ll just tell you. It’s not that serious and I’m figuring things out like I always do.” He folded his hands behind his head as you felt your chest tighten in worry. 

“Our insurance got cut. So her medicine ain’t covered. That’s all.” The smile remained on his face and you felt your stomach flip with discomfort. “I’ve been scrounging up money but it’s waaaaaayyy more expensive than I thought.” He continued and your mind began to race. Why not ask Leona? Or Kalim? Ruggie is shameless when he needs cash... But maybe it wasn’t pride stopping him from reaching out. It could be something else entirely. “It’s been stressin’ me out but hey,” He pulled his hands apart and slipped them back into his pockets. “she has been doing much better than she was. So I can’t complain right now.”  

You wanted to help. You weren’t rich. But Ruggie is your friend. You could tell he was trying to frame it as not a big deal since he was sharing the pain with you. Ruggie had told you how this was his only family member he had. If something was to happen to his grandma... You couldn’t picture what kind of person Ruggie would become. And you didn’t want to. “If you want, I can spot you?” You offered and his smile fell for just a second. His tail swished against his pants as he offered you a grin full of teeth. “Okay Miss. Moneybags, I ain’t ask for a charity donation.” He joked and you started to pout. “Don’t say it like that!” The playfulness returned as Ruggie took a small step closer to you. 

“I ain’t tryna’ work for free. The medicine costs a lot y’know?” He warned playfully as you became hesitant. “Well, how much is it?” There wasn’t a doubt in your mind that it would be expensive. Medication was never cheap. “Since I’ve been workin’ all I need now is thirty thousand Madol.” You sucked in a sharp breath, your face going hot from the sound of such a large number. Then you calculated and converted. Madol worked differently than US currency... So it was much closer to two hundred dollars. Not as horrible as you thought but still a lot. You could afford to give it to him.  

“I don’t think I need anything worth that much.” You had no chores around Ramshackle worth that much. Everything was manageable between you, Grim, and the ghosts. Ruggie hummed in thought as you looked down at the tips of your shoes. You felt like handing it over and just telling him to pay you back later. You weren’t struggling at the moment, and you knew this was for a good reason. “I got an idea.” The beastman’s tone softened and you watched him outstretch his hand, he took another step towards you. The scent of coffee lingered on his clothes as you felt your heartbeat quicken. He pressed a slender finger against the space beneath your belly button. Creating a small indent in the dark fabric of your sweatshirt.  

“What about this? Since we’re friends.” The hyena whispered with a smile. You could feel a warmth bloom in his face as you started to piece together his suggestion. “I know you get lonely. Especially since you don’t have anyone you’re into right now. What was it like all summer?” He teased and you continued to lock your gaze with the tips of your shoes. You had no experience outside of your lonely dominant hand. And now with the offer coming up, you had never noticed how dire you felt for that kind of affection. You swallowed down a lump that formed in your throat and Ruggie snickered. 

“Hyena got your tongue?” He joked and you hugged Grim closer to you. You couldn’t tell if he was picking on you or not. If this offer was genuine or his own brand of humor. But Ruggie never made jokes like this. Not with you. “Gimmie your number. Why don’t we talk about it over text since you wanna be shy about it.” Ruggie reached out and pinched the soft fat of your cheek before pulling out his phone.  

You were friends on MagiCam, but it never crossed your mind to ask for his number. You gave him the private digits and soon you had a ping in your back pocket where the device was tucked away. “Just think it over. You don’t have to if you don’t want to.” He promised with a hum before turning to walk away with a wave. “G’night Prefect.” Ruggie snickered as he made his way down the winding dirt path to the Hall of Mirrors. Leaving you there with a sleeping Grim and a newfound warmth between your pressed together thighs.