Dan comes home from the Stop Speak Support event to a little surprise from Phil and they talk about their day.
Fluff ensues.
Words: 963
Cyber-bullying. Students. The Vamps. The Prince.
It was on the walk home that it all began to sink in.
Dan had just finished hosting and speaking at a Stop Speak Support event at a local school, alongside the Prince of all people. There were moments in his life he’d never understand and this was one of them.
He felt pretty proud of himself, despite his initial insecurities about fumbling over his words or tripping off the stage or being the tallest person there.
But as he walked home, the sun setting against the indigo London sky, he felt pretty good about this day.
When he made his video opening up about his depression just a few months back, he had no idea it would lead to him becoming an ambassador for Young Minds or speaking with the Prince or even helping a single person.
Cyber bullying and the affect it has on mental health has always been important to Dan, so to share his story with so many young people who could be going through something similar just seemed right. And if he was able to help people in the process, then that felt pretty damn good.
He finally made it to the flat and walked inside to see Phil sitting in the lounge, the TV on a low volume and glasses noticeably on his face. Then his eyes drifted to the takeaway bags on the coffee table.
“You’re home.” Phil said with a smile as he stood and pressed a kiss to Dan’s cheek.
“What’s all this?” Dan asked as he gestured toward the bags.
“I ordered your favorite.” Phil told him. “It literally just got here. I’m surprised you didn’t bump into the delivery man.”
“Oh, you didn’t have to order dinner.” Dan said.
“Well, of course I did. We need to celebrate.” Phil said as he wrapped his arms around Dan’s waist. “I already know you did amazing today.”
Dan had this way of responding with his eyes and Phil knew everything Dan was thinking just by the look on his face.
Just like how Phil didn’t need to say how proud he was of Dan; Dan knew just by the grand gesture his boyfriend had made of ordering him food.
“Come on, I want to hear all about it.” Phil said, unwrapping his arms from Dan’s waist, letting his hands give Dan’s sides a squeeze. “Let me just grab the milkshakes.” he said before heading to the kitchen.
“Milkshakesss?” Dan asked as he spun around dramatically.
“It’s a tradition now!” Phil called from the kitchen.
Dan couldn’t keep the fond smile off his face as he sat down on the couch.
They ate and talked; Dan told Phil all about the event, sharing little stories he’d never tell anyone else.
“And Prince William even asked if I was putting any of it on my channel.” Dan said.
“What did you say?” Phil asked.
“What am I supposed to say to that? It’s not like I brought a camera with me!” Dan said. “I guess I have no choice but to make a video about it now.” he said and the two laughed.
“So, do you feel good about how it went today?” Phil asked.
“I do.” Dan told him. “The best thing that came out of all this is the opportunities I’ve gotten to help people; whether its about mental health or just cyber-bullying.”
“That’s good.” Phil said. “Imagine if you had a Youtuber speaking out about this stuff when you were younger. It probably would have helped a lot.”
“Yeah, that’s exactly why I feel like it’s important that I do all this.” Dan began. “So many kids watch our videos and spend all their time on the internet. It’s not good for your mental health anyway, never mind if you get cyber-bullied by random strangers.” he said, shaking his head at his thoughts. “But anyway, how was your day? I wish you could have come with me.”
Phil smiled a little. “You know I would have, but today was the only day the optician could fit me in.”
“How did your appointment go?” Dan asked.
Phil let out a sigh. “I only have one week left with my eyes.” he spoke in the most serious tone.
“Oh my God, I’m sorry to hear that.” Dan played along. “What’s the last thing you want to see before you lose your eyes?” he asked.
Phil simply looked at Dan. They both knew what Phil was thinking and it caused a blush to form on Dan’s cheeks.
“But seriously, what’s going on with your eyes?” Dan then asked.
“They said I don’t have enough tears, so I need to wear my glasses at least once a week.” Phil told him.
“Not complaining.” Dan said as he took a sip of his milkshake.
“I will be. It’s so annoying wearing glasses.” Phil said as he fiddled with them on his face. “Oh! Want to see the back of my eye?” he then asked excitedly as he whipped out his phone to find the picture.
“Excuse me?” Dan asked.
“They took a picture of the back of my eye. Don’t ask me how, I have no idea.” Phil said as he showed Dan the picture.
“Eww.” Dan let out. “I mean, that’s kind of cool, in a weird, artistic way… but also kind of gross.”
“People on Twitter thought it was cool.” Phil said with a shrug.
“You tweeted that??” Dan suddenly asked. “Phil, that is cyber-bullying!”
Dan and Phil are beginning the celebration of Phil’s birthday by seeing Hamilton and Dan hopes everything goes smoothly so he can give Phil his real birthday present.
Words: 1.5k
Everything must go smoothly.
They’ve been waiting for this day for a year now.
Dan knew how awkward and harrowing situations seemed to follow them wherever they went. But tonight? Tonight had to be perfect.
No booking taxis in the wrong timezone; no misplacing the tickets; no crazy drivers; no getting mobbed by subscribers who might notice them; no awkward moments in the theater; no people tripping over their long giraffe legs as they pass by their seats; no anything that could possibly ruin this night.
Everything must go smoothly.
This was more than just a play. This was more than just a night out. This was more than just a date.
This was the night they’d been looking forward to for a year. This was Phil’s birthday. This was Hamilton.
This is where Dan was going to give Phil the birthday present he deserved. The birthday present he’d been wanting. The birthday present he’d been waiting for.
Dan felt a bubbling in his chest as the realization hit him. He was finally seeing Hamilton, with Phil, and finally giving Phil something he’s wanted for years; something they’ve both wanted for years. He was excited and it wasn’t even his birthday. He hoped Phil was just as excited for tonight as he was.
What was he going to wear? What was Phil wearing? He hoped they wouldn’t clash. But he also wanted them both to be comfy, as they had to sit in the theater for hours. Black jeans and a jumper? Maybe that new black jacket he’d just gotten? That would do.
He got dressed and grabbed the tickets out of his drawer, where they had been for the last year. He then grabbed his present for Phil and slipped it into his pocket before leaving the bedroom to find Phil waiting for him in the lounge.
“Ready to go? The car just pulled up.” Phil told him as he stood from the couch, wearing his signature black, skinny jeans and his green fox jumper. It was so Phil and Dan couldn’t help but smile, ignoring the fact they were definitely going to clash.
“Yup.” Dan said, still smiling. “I can’t believe we’re finally seeing Hamilton.”
“I know. If I’m excited, I can’t imagine how excited you must be.” Phil said as they walked to the door, turning the lights off on their way out.
Dan giggled. “I am, but this is your birthday present, remember. I want you to have the best time.” he told him, letting his eyes linger on his boyfriend in true “Heart Eyes Howell” fashion.
“You sure you have everything? Tickets, wallet, keys?“ Phil asked.
“Yes, Phil, I have everything.” Dan spoke assuredly, but still patted his pockets to double check.
They hopped in the taxi and Dan was pleasantly surprised by their timely and seemingly antisocial driver. They arrived at the theater and Dan let out a breath. One thing down, now they just had to make it inside and to their seats and they were most likely home free. But he also knew that for Dan and Phil, that might not be an easy thing.
They got out of the taxi and stood by the theater. They watched as people made their way inside, the pavement they stood on being illuminated by the the glowing marquee that read Hamilton.
“We’re here.” Phil whispered excitedly, nudging Dan repeatedly.
Dan just smiled at him, hoping everything would go smoothly from here.
They headed inside and Phil gave their tickets. Dan internally cheered when they made it past security in a breeze and they both managed to not say or do anything awkward. Another thing down.
But there was still potential for disaster. This theater was buzzing with people. The last thing Dan wanted was to get recognized or get talked to or do anything awkward. It wasn’t an irrational fear as neither of them had a very good track record.
“All right, our seats are up on the mezzanine. Let’s find them and then I’ll come back down for drinks.” Phil said as he brushed his hand against Dan’s ever-so-lightly, unnoticeably. Dan was grateful for their psychic connection. Or maybe the fear was just written on his face. Either way, Phil knew and Dan needed to suck it up so he didn’t ruin their night.
They made it halfway across the theater before they heard it.
“Dan and Phil!” a voice called through the crowd behind them.
They both stopped and turned to see a young girl hurrying toward them. At least, Dan hoped it was just the one.
“Hi, umm, I don’t want to bother you guys, but could I get a picture with you?” the girl asked a bit sheepishly, clearly trying to maintain who excitement.
“Of course!” Phil told her happily and the three of them posed and her parents took the picture.
“Thank you! And happy birthday, Phil!” the girl said before walking off.
Dan and Phil both said bye before Dan let out a sigh.
“I hope that’s the only person who recognizes us.” Dan said.
“I’m sure it will be. Don’t worry about it. Let’s go find our seats.” Phil said with a small smile before leading the way.
They found the stairway that would lead them to the mezzanine. They made it up almost two flights when Dan decided to lightheartedly complain.
“I came here… to have a good time… but instead…” Dan let out, dramatically panting in the process. “I’m being forced to exercise!”
“Only one more flight, Dan! You can do it!” Phil said with a laugh.
They finally made it to the mezzanine and Dan truly did feel out of breath by the time they found their section. He was happy to see their row was still mostly empty; no one to scoot past and hopefully whoever needed to scoot past them would be normal and quiet and not clumsy.
“These are good seats, Dan.” Phil said as he looked down at the stage.
“I tried.” Dan told him with a shrug.
“Okay, I’m going to go get us some drinks.” Phil said as he stood up again.
“Are you sure your poor sense of orienteering will get you back?” Dan asked with a smirk.
“No, I’ll probably get lost and end up in the basement.” Phil said. “Or backstage! Maybe I’ll meet Hamilton himself!”
Dan would have face-palmed had they not been in public as he let out a laugh. It was one of those laughs that was reserved for Phil’s unexpected, funny wit.
As soon as Phil was out of view, Dan took a deep breath and let it out slow. The time was now. Once Phil got back with their drinks, he was going to do it. He slowly slid his hand into his pocket, letting his fingers brush along his present.
Phil arrived back with their drinks and sat down. “The queue was really long. I ran into another subscriber and then a strange man asked me if I like lemons and-”
“Phil,” Dan cut him off.
Phil looked at Dan, a hint of nervousness apparent on his boyfriend’s face.
“Yeah?” Phil asked. He watched as Dan reached into his pocket and pulled something out.
“Happy birthday.” Dan said as he handed it to Phil.
In Phil’s hand was a folded piece of paper. Phil opened it and read what Dan had written.
IOU
1 forever home
1 corgi
the rest of our lives
- Dan
“I wish I could have gotten you these things for your birthday, but obviously we can’t get them until after the tour.” Dan explained while Phil continued looking down at the paper. “So, hopefully an IOU will do for now.”
Phil finally looked up at Dan. He seemed to be lost for words, or maybe he just couldn’t say the words he wanted to say in public. But he didn’t need to. The look of utter joy, anticipation and love in his eyes said more than his words ever could.
It was then the lights began to dim. The theater went dark, spotlights lighting up the stage. Somehow in the darkness, Phil’s hand found Dan’s. Dan didn’t flinch and instead grabbed hold of Phil’s hand, feeling safe in the darkness, knowing everyone’s eyes would be on the stage.
As the play began, Phil couldn’t tear his thoughts away from Dan’s present. He’d have to ask Dan later about how the play began, as all he could think about was that list of things Dan planned on getting them in the near future.
Sure, he was excited for the tour. To travel the world with his best friend and boyfriend; putting on another stage show, meeting loads of subscribers and having the chance to make people laugh in real life? Of course he was excited, but he was even more excited for what comes next.
He managed to put it all at the back of his mind for tonight, wanting to enjoy this much-anticipated play with Dan. There was plenty of time to think about their future later.
One thing he was glad wasn’t on the IOU though was a ring, because come June, that would be Dan’s birthday IOU.
Phil wants to get a real Christmas tree, but will no car, memories of the rave tree and the lack of a festive Dan stop him?
A/N: I hope this sort of makes up for not getting a festive ditl this year! ^-^
Words: 4.2k
It was that time of year again. A welcome chill was in the air, the whiskering Sharpie had been put away for another year and Phil was finally allowed to do this.
Phil sat in bed, the duvet thrown over his legs and glasses resting on the tip of his nose as he scrolled through the music on his phone. Dan was still fast asleep beside him, wrapped in a cocoon of blankets and in his own little dreamland. Dan always looked so calm when he was asleep and Phil hoped the younger boy’s dreams were as peaceful as he looked.
Phil finally found the song he’d been looking for and hit play. He began turning up the volume, letting that magical, festive melody fill the bedroom.
Dan began to stir, and Phil took that as his cue to begin belting out “All I Want For Christmas Is You” at the top of his lungs.
Dan finally rolled over, blinking sleepily as he watched Phil, loving his low notes and cringing at his high notes. He loved Phil’s singing voice; slightly jealous even. The way Phil was able to deepen that baritone voice of his and actually hold a note; it always seemed to impress Dan.
“You’re no Mariah.” Dan muttered before closing his eyes and sinking back into his pillow.
“Rude!” Phil let out with a gasp. “It’s December 1st, which means I’m now legally allowed to listen to this all day every day and sing along as loudly as I want.” he said, crossing his arms. He waited for this day all year, as Dan had banned this song from playing in their home any time before the 1st of December.
“You’re not allowed to do anything this early” Dan said.
“It’s 11:00.″ Phil told him, finally hitting pause on the song.
“Exactly.” Dan said as he buried his head into his pillow.
“No, you need to get up!” Phil said, shaking his boyfriend ever-so-gently. “We’ve got lots to do today!”
Dan’s eyes shot open. “Such as?”
“Well, put up a Christmas tree, of course!” Phil spoke happily.
“That’d be a lot easier to do if you didn’t forget our rave tree at the old flat.” Dan said as he sat up on his elbow.
“Yeah, I’ve been thinking about that.” Phil said.
“You plus thinking is never a good thing.” Dan quipped.
Phil just ignored him. “I was thinking, what if we get a real Christmas tree this year?”
Dan let out a laugh. “You can’t even keep a houseplant alive!”
“Yes, I can!” Phil fought.
“Tell that to Loki!” Dan then said.
Phil gasped. “We don’t speak of her!” he let out. “I try my best.” he then said, pouting slightly.
Dan sat up, curling a bit into Phil’s side. “I know you do, I’m sorry. It’s just, you really want to take on the responsibility of a real Christmas tree?”
Phil let a hand rummage through Dan’s messy morning curls. “I thought it would be fun.” he said. “Try new things, right?”
Dan sighed. “Try new things.” he agreed. “So, how exactly do we get this real tree?”
Phil giggled. “Well, we’ve got to go to the tree lot, pick one out and they’ll chop it down for us to bring home.”
“And how the hell are we going to get it home? What, tie in on the roof of the taxi?” Dan asked sarcastically.
“Well, I was hoping Martyn might come with us so we could use his car.” Phil said. “I texted him a little while ago, I’m just waiting for him to respond.”
As if on cue, Phil’s phone dinged with a new text from his brother. Phil read the text before looking up at Dan.
“Well? What’d he say?” Dan asked.
“He said we could use his car.” Phil told him.
“Oh, okay. You looked like he’d given you bad news.” Dan said with a chuckle.
“Well, we can use his car… as long as one of us drives it.” Phil told him.
“Excuse me?” Dan let out.
“He said he’ll be busy all day but we’re more than welcome to take his car.” Phil said.
“Well he clearly doesn’t care much about his car if he’s leaving it in our hands.” Dan said.
“Scared to hit the road, Howell?” Phil asked, his voice becoming slightly deeper as it always did when he teased Dan.
“Yes!” Dan said with an obvious laugh. “And you should be too.”
“I can do it. I’m not afraid to get behind the wheel.” Phil spoke confidently.
Dan’s eyes widened. “I’ve seen you play Mario Kart. I would fear for our lives.”
The pout returned to Phil’s face. “Wow, you have such little faith in me today.”
Dan’s face softened. “Phil, it’s not that. I don’t trust myself to drive either. Neither of us have driven a car in years.”
Phil smirked. “Try new things?”
“You’re only allowed to whack out the ‘try new things’ excuse once a day.” Dan declared.
“Says who?” Phil asked.
“Says me.” Dan simply said.
“And who exactly put you in charge?” Phil asked as he rolled over on top of his boyfriend, much reminiscent to a certain incident captured in the first Phil is not on fire.
Dan looked up at Phil with wide eyes and an uncontrollable smile on his face.
“Hmm?” Phil continued. “First, no ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ until December 1st, then no more than one ‘try new things’ a day. What’s next, you won’t let me have sweets?”
Dan couldn’t help but laugh at his boyfriend’s ridiculousness - and also the fact he had hidden Phil’s latest packet of marshmallows to try and limit his sugar intake. But Phil didn’t need to know that right now.
“Why don’t we just get a tree whenever Martyn is available to drive us?” Dan asked.
“But Dan, it’s already December 1st! If we wait too long, all the good trees will be gone and we’ll get stuck with a crappy one. Just ask Charlie Brown, he knows what I’m talking about.” Phil said.
Dan burst out laughing at that. Phil didn’t usually make him laugh with his purposeful jokes or terrible puns; it was more of Phil’s dry wit, the things Dan never saw coming, that would send him into hysterics, which would then send Phil into hysterics right along with him.
When the two calmed down, Dan brought his hands to rest on Phil’s waist.”You may be an overly-festive, plant-killing, bad-driving rat… but you are really funny.” he said.
Phil’s face held a mixture of shock and offense, but he knew there was a compliment in there somewhere.
“I guess,” Dan then said. “I can try driving to the tree lot. How hard could it be?”
“I mean, I’ve seen you play Mario Kart as well. As long as you avoid the shells on the road, I’ll think you’ll be fine.” Phil told him.
“As long as those London roads don’t turn into rainbows I think I should be okay.” Dan said. “Now get off me, you spork!” he said as he pushed at his boyfriend.
-
The two finally made their way out of bed. Phil poured them both some bowls of cereal and they indulged in their morning anime. When they finished, Phil instinctively started blasting “All I Want For Christmas Is You” for a second time while they got dressed.
“Christmas jumper activated!” Phil announced as he hopped into the room to see Dan dressed in none other than his black, fuzzy jumper. “Dan! You aren’t wearing a Christmas jumper?!” he asked in shock.
“No…” Dan answered. “I’m just not quite in the festive mood yet.”
“Well, that’s what ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ is for! Do I need to play it again?” Phil asked as he whipped out his phone.
“No!” Dan quickly said. “I’m just comfortable in this jumper. Does it really matter if it’s Christmas themed?” he asked, a slight whine in his voice.
Phil sighed. “I guess not.” he said. “And I do love this jumper.” he said as he wrapped his arms around Dan’s waist, clutching his hands in the fuzzy material.
“I promise I’ll get in the festive mood eventually. Maybe once we have a tree up and decorated.” Dan told him.
“I’m holding you to that promise.” Phil said before pecking a kiss to Dan’s lips. When he pulled back, he noticed the slight frown on his boyfriend’s face. “What?” he asked.
“It’s our first Christmas without the rave tree.” Dan said.
“Look at Daniel Howell being all sentimental.” Phil teased, giving Dan a squeeze.
“I know it’s dumb.” Dan began. “I’ll just miss it, I guess. We had so many raves with it, after all.”
“So many raves.” Phil agreed. “But it’s not dumb. I’ll miss it, too. But I’m also excited to have a real Christmas tree for the first time.” he said, bouncing a bit in excitement. “And I’m excited I get to do it with you.”
Dan instantly smiled. “I am too.” he said. “Let’s go get our tree.”
-
The two endured their walk to Martyn’s place. They were grateful their new flat was a lot closer to essential places the two often needed to be. It resulted in less taxi fares and awkward rides and more walking that the two of them knew they needed.
They made it to Martyn’s place and Phil retrieved the key his brother had left for them under the mat.
They both hopped in the car, Phil in the passenger seat and Dan in the driver’s seat.
Dan buckled his seat belt and took a deep breath. He looked out the windshield, watching as car after car past by with ease. He felt the petal beneath his foot; let his hands examine the steering wheel; felt the nerves building up in his chest.
“So, what are we doing today, Dan?” he suddenly heard and whipped his head around to see Phil pointing a camera at him.
“Don’t tell me you’re filming!” Dan exclaimed.
“Of course I am! This is a big deal, Dan! This is your first time driving in years!” Phil announced for the camera.
“And what exactly are you planning on doing with this video, Phil?” Dan asked.
“This is on my second channel. LessAmazingPhil has been lacking some Try New Things lately.” Phil told him.
“Oh, I’m so glad I could offer you that quality content.” Dan said, shooting the camera that top notch hand gesture that he simultaneously loved and hated.
“So, are you ready to drive, Dan?” Phil asked.
“Years of intense Mario Kart races have prepared me for this moment.” Dan said.
“Just make sure you dodge all the shells in the road!” Phil told him.
“Thanks for that helpful piece of advice, Phil.” Dan spoke sarcastically. “Okay, are you ready?”
“Yes! Let’s-uh-go!” Phil said, imitating Mario himself.
“Shut up!” Dan said with a laugh, a combination of annoyance and fondness and nerves bubbling inside him. He started the car and gripped the steering wheel while Phil filmed and watched in anticipation.
When almost 10 seconds went by and Dan didn’t move, Phil couldn’t help but laugh, which caused Dan to laugh as well.
“Ah, I’m scared! Okay!” Dan let out as he bounced in his seat.
“Don’t be scared. Just take a deep breath. You can do this. It’s nothing you’ve never done before.” Phil said, placing a comforting hand on Dan’s thigh, out of camera shot.
Just the sound of Phil’s voice calmed him down. Just feeling Phil’s touch calmed him down. Just Phil being there calmed him down. He finally pulled away, hands gripping the wheel as he pulled out onto the street and drove.
“You’re doing it!” Phil spoke happily. “How’s it feel?”
“Like I haven’t driven a car in almost a decade!” Dan said. “I hope everyone watching this is enjoying my misery. Assuming this gets uploaded and I don’t crash, leading to our fiery deaths.”
“Well, I guess your death can be fiery now that you’re not on fire anymore.” Phil said, causing Dan to gasp.
“If I wasn’t driving a frickin car I would slap you!” Dan exclaimed while Phil laughed.
“Try new things?” Phil finally said.
“Try new things!” Dan said with a laugh.
Phil stopped recording and put the camera down. “How are you really feeling?” he then asked.
“I’m okay. We’re moving, aren’t we?” Dan asked.
“I told you you could do it.” Phil said as he gave Dan’s thigh a comforting squeeze.
-
They made it to the tree lot and as soon as Dan put the car in park, he let out a dramatic sigh.
“You know there was like a 20% chance we were going to die.” Dan said.
“Just 20?” Phil asked.
“That’s not a high enough risk for you?” Dan asked back.
“You did fine. Better than I ever drove.” Phil told him.
“Well, that I’m sure of.” Dan said with a smirk before hopping out of the car.
Phil followed along and the two headed into the lot, the piney scent hitting them both instantly. Dozens upon dozens of trees covered the space, creating a magical maze in front of them.
“Now, we’ve got to choose one.” Phil said, his eyes lighting up as he looked at all the trees and took off, leaving Dan to follow behind with an uncontrollable smile on his face.
Dan caught up with Phil and they walked through the lot, admiring all the trees as they searched for the perfect one.
“How would you feel about this place at night, Dan?” Phil asked.
“Oh, you mean giant trees in the dark in the middle of nowhere? It’s a dream come true. I’d like to holiday here actually.” Dan told him.
“Yeah? A holiday with Slenderman? Slendering through the trees together.” Phil said as he himself “slendered” up to Dan.
“Fuck off!” Dan said as he pushed Phil away. “Pick out your damn tree!” he said while Phil laughed.
They continued walking around until Phil spotted one.
“How about this one?” Phil asked as he pointed to a tree that looked to be 5 feet taller than them.
“Phil, that’s gigantic! That’ll never fit in our flat!” Dan said.
“This one?” Phil then asked, pointing at the one beside it that was about half the size.
“That one’s shorter than me!” Dan said.
“I didn’t think anything was shorter than you.” Phil said.
Dan shot Phil a glare. “What about this one?” he then said as he pointed to a tree that stood across from them.
Phil walked up to it, examining it. “Not too tall, not too short.” he began before suddenly sniffing the tree. “A fresh, piney scent on the laddy.”
“God, you’re so weird.” Dan said with a cringe as he watched his boyfriend.
“It’s perfect.” Phil told him with a smile. He couldn’t help but imagine this tree in their apartment, decorated and lighting up the lounge while the two of them sat cuddled on the couch, admiring their festive flat.
“Are you sure?” Dan asked, snapping Phil from his thoughts. “You don’t need to run a load of tests on it or something?”
“Nope, I’m positive. This is the one.” Phil said. “I’ll go find someone to help us with it. You just stay here and keep tabs on it.”
-
When Phil returned, he stopped short as he watched his boyfriend.
“What are you doing?” he asked Dan, who was currently crouched in front of the tree, shooting different facial expressions at his phone that was held in front of him.
“What does it look like I’m doing?” Dan asked as he stood up and began playing with the filters. “I’m outside, with trees, getting oxygen, experiencing nature. It’s a momentous occasion that needs to be documented with a selfie on Instagram.”
Phil just rolled his eyes. “They’re going to come chop her down and tie her on top of the car for us.”
“Her?” Dan questioned. “I wasn’t aware trees had genders, Phil.”
“Well, it just so happens this one does.” Phil told him.
“Yeah? Did you name her too?” Dan asked sarcastically, but he knew that look on Phil’s face. “You frickin named it, didn’t you?! I swear to God if it’s called Susan I’m leaving you here.”
“It’s not Susan.” Phil told him. “It’s Treesa.” he said. “You know, like Ther-esa, but Tree-sa.”
Dan simply looked at his boyfriend. “You know, the more you personify this thing, the harder it’s going to be for you when you inevitably kill it.”
“Just let me name the tree, Dan!” Phil said in a slightly whiny voice and Dan just rolled his eyes.
-
Their tree was chopped down and tied to the car. Dan drove them back to their flat and the two managed to get the tree off the top of the car. They carried it up the one flight of stairs leading into their flat, dozens of needles sprinkling along their path. Dan had commented about how difficult this would have been had they done this at their old place and Phil could only imagine the struggle of getting this tree up the steps in their old flat; all 47 of them.
Once they made it into the lounge, Dan dropped the tree with a huff. “Bloody hell. Lay off the donuts, Treesa.”
“Don’t insult our tree!” Phil said. “You’re perfect just the way you are, Treesa.” he continued, looking lovingly at the tree that laid in their lounge.
Dan rolled his eyes before plopping down on the couch.
“Hey, aren’t you going to help me get her in the stand?” Phil asked.
“Nah.” Dan let out. “It’ll be fun watching you attempt it.”
Phil shot his boyfriend a glare before lifting the tree. He tried his best, but inevitably lost his strength and dropped it to the floor.
Dan let out a laugh before finally getting up to help.
“All right, you spork, on the count of 3.” Dan said before counting to 3 and the two got the tree into the stand.
They looked up at it, the tree standing just a couple of inches taller than them.
“All right, now we decorate!” Phil said excitedly before taking off to the closet to grab the decorations.
“You’re wasting no time, are you, Phil?” Dan asked.
“Nope!” Phil called from the other room and Dan chuckled fondly.
It was only a few minutes later when Phil dragged in the box of decorations. He propped the box on the floor and looked up to see a slight frown on his boyfriend’s face.
“What?” Phil wondered.
Dan shrugged. “Nothing, it’s just… I’m just still missing the rave tree, I guess.”
Phil walked over to Dan and wrapped his arms around his boyfriend’s waist. “I have a feeling this is going to be even better than the rave tree.” he said before suddenly pulling something from his back pocket and holding it above them. “Oh, what is that? Is that a mistletoe?” he asked in a goofy voice.
Dan couldn’t help but laugh. “Why was that in your pocket, you weirdo!?”
“You mean you don’t carry a mistletoe in your pocket everywhere you go?” Phil asked and Dan continued to laugh, shaking his head at his silly boyfriend. “Well? I’m waiting!” Phil then said.
Dan smiled before pressing his lips to Phil’s.
When they pulled apart, it was Phil who had the smile on his face. “Now, let’s decorate!”
Phil grabbed the spare string of multi-colored lights out of the box, a tangled mess in his hands. “Okay, I’ll work on this if you grab the tinsel.” he said before beginning his challenge of untangling the lights.
Dan grabbed a chunk of tinsel out of the box and began putting it on the tree.
Suddenly, Dan felt something wrap around his waist and looked down to see glowing Christmas lights. He turned around, looking unamused while Phil ignored him and continued wrapping the lights around his boyfriend’s body.
“Really?” Dan let out.
“I just wanted to make sure you were finally in the festive mood. Full immersion and all that jazz.” Phil told him as he wrapped the last of the lights around the back of Dan’s neck, letting the end dangle off his shoulder.
“I’m getting there.” Dan assured his boyfriend. “But I’ll never fully get there if we don’t get this done. And we’ll never get this done if you keep stopping to whack out a mistletoe or decorate me!” he complained despite the smile on his face.
“Okay, you’re right. But I got them untangled!” Phil said happily.
“Yeah and now they’re tangled around me!” Dan said while Phil just laughed and unwrapped the lights from his boyfriend.
About a half an hour and another rendition of “All I Want For Christmas Is You” later, the tree was finally decorated. A colorful string of lights lit up the tree while baubles hung from the branches and tinsel glistened in between.
The two took a step back to admire their finished work.
“You were right, it is even better.” Dan told him, but Phil could still sense the tiniest hint of sadness in his voice. “I’m going to go make us some hot chocolate.” he said before heading to the kitchen.
This was the perfect opportunity that Phil needed.
-
Dan came back into the lounge with two steaming mugs of hot chocolate in-hand. He joined Phil on the couch and handed his boyfriend a mug before taking a sip of his own. He let his head fall onto Phil’s shoulder as they looked at their tree.
“I’m glad you finally got a real Christmas tree.” Dan spoke softly. “I know you’ve wanted one for a while.”
“I’m glad we finally have a place big enough for one. It never would have worked in our old flat.” Phil said.
“It looks amazing.” Dan then said before taking another sip of his hot chocolate.
They were silent for a moment before Phil spoke.
“Dan?”
“Yeah?” Dan answered.
“How come you miss the rave tree so much?” Phil asked.
“I don’t know.” Dan began. “I guess because it was our first Christmas tree together. We decorated it together. We added so many ornaments to the collection over the years. We’d put the lights on ‘rave mode’ just to be silly.” he said. “There were just a lot of memories attached to the rave tree.”
Phil didn’t say anything as he suddenly got up from the couch. He put his mug down on the coffee table before going over and unplugging the lights from the tree.
“What are you-” Dan was cut off by a sudden burst of blinking blue lights as Phil plugged them in.
“Surprise.” Phil simply said.
Dan blinked, letting his eyes adjust to the bright, blinking lights that were suddenly lighting up their tree.
“Phil… how…” Dan let out.
“I ordered some new lights.” Phil told him. “It was the lights that made the rave tree, after all.” he said as he plopped back down on the couch.
“You’re amazing.” Dan said as he looked at his boyfriend.
“Well, duh, haven’t you seen my username?” Phil asked and Dan giggled.
Dan looked at the tree that was raving in front of him before looking back at Phil. “You know, you were right. I loved the rave tree, but it was just the lights.” he said. “You’re what made it special, Phil.” he said and Phil couldn’t help but smile. “Rave lights or no rave lights, you’re all I really need.”
Phil looked at him. “Are you saying I’m all you want for Christmas, Dan?” he asked with a sly smile.
“All I want for Christmas is you, Phil.” Dan said in a gushy voice before letting out an sarcastic snort and Phil just laughed. “But seriously, I think I’m finally fully in the festive mood.” Dan then said.
Phil leaned in close to Dan. “Well, it took you long enough.”
Dan leaned in as well, ready to plant a kiss on his boyfriend, but was stopped by Phil turning his head toward his phone.
"Way to ruin the mood." Dan muttered.
"Ruin?" Phil questioned as he tapped his phone and a familiar melody began to play through their flat. "We're just getting started. Let's turn this into a real rave." he said as he stood from the couch. "Dance with me?" he asked sweetly, offering his hand to Dan.
Dan bit back a smile as he took Phil's hand and was pulled up from the couch.
They stood in the middle of the living room, two hands interlocked while their free hands rested on each others waists.
They bopped and swayed and Phil even took it upon himself to give Dan a spin.
Smiles and giggles filled the room as they continued to dance to "All I Want For Christmas Is You" in front of their glowing tree, both feeling more festive than they had all day.
Dan and Phil have arrived in Edinburgh and can’t stop thinking about their forever secrets.
The two arrived in Edinburgh and despite it being just early evening, the two were tired from their travel and were happy to be in their hotel room.
Phil was already sprawled on the bed while Dan got into his pyjamas.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you go to bed this early.” Phil joked as he glanced at the clock that read 9pm.
“Tired.” was all Dan said and Phil understood. Packing and flying and airports in general seemed to exhaust this anxious procrastinator he called his boyfriend.
Phil reached his hand out for Dan, wanting nothing more than for Dan to finally join him in bed.
Dan obliged, cuddling up to Phil’s side and resting his head on Phil’s chest. Dan knew it was cheesy, but he really did always feel at-home - no matter where in the world they were - as long as he was with Phil.
“Speaking of home,” Dan began.
“Who was talking about home?” Phil asked, but Dan ignored him and continued talking in the soft, slightly raspy voice he possessed when he was content and tired and that only Phil got to hear.
“I can’t wait, you know.” Dan said. “To finally, after all these years, and after everything’s that’s happened…” he trailed off. “Things weren’t always easy. From the day of the fucking Youtube glitch all the way to the shit we went through just this last March… but we made it. We’re almost there. We almost have our forever home.”
Phil couldn’t help the small smile on his face. He couldn’t wait to finally own a forever home with his forever person either. “Plus our corgi. I mean, that’s the only reason we’re getting a house, isn’t it?”
“Oh, yeah, definitely. Fuck the whole growing up and saving up money and buying a house with your partner to spend the rest of your life in stuff, I’m just in it for the dogs.” Dan said.
“Oh, it’s dogs now, is it?” Phil asked.
“Well, if you get a corgi then I get a shibe. That’s only fair.” Dan said.
“What about a mix? A shorgi?” Phil suggested.
“A… Cibe.”
“Corbe.”
“Shigi.”
The two couldn’t stop giggling now as Phil pressed a kiss to Dan’s curly hair.
“Just a little bit longer and we’ll finally have it all.” Dan said. “And our audience has no idea. Can you imagine how crazy Tumblr will go when that video is uploaded?” he said with a slightly sinister giggle.
Phil couldn’t help but laugh. “Goodnight, Dan.”
“Night.” Dan said back as he closed his eyes, his weight becoming heavier beside Phil as sleep overcame him.
Phil, however, wasn’t as tired as his boyfriend and decided to scroll through Tumblr in search of some fanart to queue. He scrolled through his tag to see post after post with ‘proofs’ about how he and Dan were moving again soon.
Phil decided to put down his phone and not tell Dan about how their sleuth-y audience already knew their little secret. He goes to sleep, happy knowing that among his forever things, this secret will no longer be one of them.
Totally what happened when they discovered each other’s freckles.
Phil woke up, no idea what time it was and almost forgetting he was back home in London. A sleeping Dan lay beside him, both of them exhausted with jetlag.
Phil rolled over, about to press a kiss to Dan’s bare shoulder when he suddenly stopped. “Whoa.”
“Hmm?” Dan murmured.
Phil didn’t say anything and proceeded to lift and examine Dan’s arm, hand, knuckles.
“What are you doing?” Dan grumbled.
Phil then looked at Dan’s face and poked his cheek.
Dan flinched and growled before glaring at his boyfriend. “What the hell are you doing?”
“You have freckles.” Phil said with the most annoyingly cute smile as he began poking the freckles covering Dan’s cheek once again.
Dan wriggled away.
“They’re so cute.” Phil gushed.
“Okay, great, I have cute freckles. Can I go back to sleep now?” Dan asked.
“Sure.” Phil told him.
Dan turned over, his back to Phil. He closed his eyes, sleep overcoming him once again.
Suddenly, he felt a finger drag along his shoulder and zig-zag down his back.
Dan squirmed. “What are you doing?” he asked in annoyance.
“Playing connect the dots!” Phil said as he continued drawing imaginary lines on his boyfriend’s back.
“Stop!” Dan giggled.
“I wanna see if they make any shapes!” Phil said.
Dan rolled over and grabbed Phil’s hands in his, stopping him from continuing his artwork.
It was then Dan noticed his boyfriend’s arm. “You do realize you have freckles too, you spork.”
Phil looked down and noticed his arms covered in freckles.
“I have too many to make any shapes, I think.” Phil said with a pout.
“Not true.” Dan said before running his finger along Phil’s arm, connecting the freckles in the shape of a heart.
Phil smiled. “Let’s see what shape yours makes.” he said before grabbing Dan’s arm and connecting the little freckles with his finger.
Dan watched, trying to make out the shape. “What is it?” he asked.
Phil looked up at Dan with the utmost innocence. “A whisk.”
“For fuck’s sake!” Dan exclaimed before getting out of bed.
Dan won’t kiss Phil if he doesn’t have a minty mouth.
It was close to 4AM and Phil lay awake next to a sleeping Dan.
Why was he hungry? It was almost 4AM. Who got hungry at 4AM? He wasn’t kidding when he said he was always hungry.
Phil got out of bed, careful not to wake his boyfriend. He headed to the kitchen to find a quick snack before getting back into bed, all without waking Dan.
Morning arrived and Dan lay awake next to a sleeping Phil.
He sat propped on his elbow as he watched his boyfriend sleep.
Dan couldn’t resist any longer and ran a hand through Phil’s messy fringe.
It woke Phil up, but he didn’t open his eyes. He simply puckered his lips, expecting his morning kiss from his boyfriend.
When he never got his kiss, he opened his eyes in confusion to find Dan just staring pointedly at him.
“Hey,” Phil complained.
“Did you snack in the middle of the night?” Dan asked.
Phil looked guiltily at Dan. “I might have gotten up to get a handful of cereal at 4AM...”
“Whose cereal?!” Dan let out. “Never mind, that’s not the point.” he quickly continued. “Did you brush your teeth again?”
Phil knew this was what Dan was getting at. “No...”
“Phil!” Dan scorned.
“I’m sorry, I just got too tired!” Phil tried defending himself.
“Well, I’m not kissing you. I don’t want your dirty, cereal-y mouth on mine!” Dan told him.
“Really, Dan? It’s been 8 years, aren’t we passed this point?” Phil asked.
“No.” Dan simply said.
Phil sighed before getting out of bed. “It was your cereal.” he said before heading to the bathroom, leaving Dan with his minty mouth wide open.
Little drabbles based off some of Dan's and Phil’s tweets. [x] [x] [x]
Dan and Phil were curled up in their snug, a movie playing on tv and a pizza on the way.
Or so they thought.
It had been almost 45 minutes and the pizza Phil ordered still hadn’t arrived.
“Phil?” Dan asked, not moving from where his head rested on Phil’s shoulder.
“Mmm?” Phil replied.
“Are you sure you hit the Order button when you ordered the pizza? It’s been, like, an hour.” Dan complained ever-so-softly.
“Yeah, I’m positive.” Phil said as he opened his laptop to double check because maybe he wasn’t so positive.
“Well in that case, we’re getting it for free because it’s been way past the 30 minutes.” Dan said, but Phil didn’t respond. Dan looked over to see that scrunched face of guilt he knew all-too-well. “Phil?” he interrogated.
“I may have ordered the pizza to our old flat!” Phil admitted, his eyes closed and face still scrunched.
“Phil!” Dan started out angry but couldn’t help but laugh.
Phil was sat in the lounge wearing shorts and a t-shirt. It was about a million degrees outside and although they had air con in their new flat, it was still pretty hot.
So imagine Phil’s confusion when his over-heated, grumpy boyfriend comes into the room wearing a hoodie and boxers.
Phil blinked, staring at Dan. He wasn’t sure what to make of the sight in front of him.
“Can I help you?” Dan asked.
“If you’re too hot, why are you wearing a sweater??” Phil asked.
That set Dan off on one of his infamous rants. “If I prefer to just wear underwear and a hoodie, it’s my choice! And you should respect it, Phil!”
“But Dan, you’re too hot.” Phil told him, unable to keep his eyes off his boyfriend.
“I’m fine, Phil.” Dan said.
“No, I mean you’re too hot.” Phil growled before getting up and smacking lips with Dan.
Phil often went to bed before Dan, it was just their routine nowadays. Phil was just about to get into bed when he spotted it.
Big, slimy, skittering around the floor of the moon room; it was a centipede.
“Dan!” Phil called as he hopped on the bed. He watched as it ran across the floor. He decided to grab an empty glass that sat on the bedside table and try to catch it.
Dan appeared in the doorway and saw his boyfriend trying to sneak up on a huge centipede on the floor.
“Nope, nopity nope, I’m sleeping in the lounge!” Dan announced before turning around and hurrying away.
Phil did eventually catch the centipede and let it out the window and managed to convince his boyfriend to sleep in their bedroom.
