#supportive cyrus

[anarcoqueer1994]

Idea: some teacher giving Marty shit for being trans so TJ steps up and the teacher is like "Why do you care are you trans or something?" Then just TJ obliterates the teacher with yes I am

So a short story inspire by an idea from one of my favorite folx on here. I am always down for more trans stories. Also slight inspiration from that one episode of Dawson's Creek where the shitty English teacher forced Jack out of the closet.

One more thing, please remember you are so valid regardless of your gender identity (or lack there of) and if you have shitty people in your life telling you differently, they are wrong.

So anyways here is "Bad Teacher" or Jesus fucking Christ, can Marty get a break?

The summer between Marty's 6th and 7th grade year, he came out as trans. He began presenting in a more masculine way. His parents were outraged and refused to accept it. But when he got back to school, it was a different story. He showed up on his first day of 7th garde and no one seemed to care. People that knew him by his deadname, were for the most part respectful towards him, while some people just assumed he was a new student. He even talked to his teachers, and even when his own parents would not respect him, his teachers did.

Things were going fine for three years, but everything changed his sophomore year of high school.  His English teacher, Mr. Williams, was a total asshole. Marty has been pretty up front about his transition to his teachers. He made it a habit to meet with his teachers on the first day of class and let them know his valid name and pronouns. He found it was easier and less awkward then correcting them in class. So he did the same with Mr. Williams. But unlike every other teacher, after hearing Marty's request not to be deadnamed, he didn't seem to care what Marty wanted.

"Now Mara" He seemed to almost smirk as Marty cringed. "I address every one of my students by the name given to me on the class roster. No nicknames."

"But sir, it isn't a nickname. It's my real name." Marty said, almost pleading.

"No. Its Mara. Now, you may be excused." He said coldly.

"But..."

"No buts." He cuts the boy off. "As I said, you are excused."

Marty left the classroom dejected. There was no winning this guy over and his parents weren't any help either. Sometimes he was so jealous of TJ. He even felt bad about being jealous of his best friend. Obviously he was happy for him, but it was still hard. TJ's parents had been so supportive. His parents let him start on T before freshmen year and even let him get his name legally changed. So that stupid roster had his actual name on it and not his deadname. Mr Williams, and most students had no idea that TJ was trans. Marty wishes he had that freedom.

But he didn't. So he did his best to speak as little as possible in English in hopes of avoiding his teacher speaking at him. This worked for a few weeks, Mr. Williams not having an excuse to say the name. He hated the feeling of seperation he felt when he was addressed by the name that even sounded alien to him. It was bad enough he had to listen to his mother calling him that everyday(his dad doesn't really speak to him.) To top it all off, this is one of the only classes he doesn't share with Buffy, the person who always has his back. On the flip side though, at least TJ and Cyrus are in the same English class.

Then one day, everything fell apart.  Mr. Williams was collecting their poetry assignments. They were told to write about how they are feeling, so that is what Marty did. He spilled his heart out over a crinkly sheet of white note book paper. 

When he got to the front of the classroom with all the poems, he smirked. "How about we read some of these out loud?"

Marty immediately said "I thought you said these were personal."

Williams looks at Marty over the top of his glasses. "I am the teacher. I can change my mind. Now, get to the front of the classroom, Mara..." The entire room freezes as he continues. " You are going first. " Marty looks down but out of the corner of his eye, he sees both TJ and Cyrus' faces shift to anger.

"Please..." Marty begs. "I don't want to read it." He tries to ignore the name.

"Get up here, now." He says harshly. "Or you and everyone else here can take a zero on the assignment." There was a collective groan from the class.

Marty slowly gets up from his seat. As he does, TJ whispers, "You don't have to do this, man."

Marty gives him and Cyrus(who is sitting right beside him) a sad smile before walking up to the front. His hands are shakey as Mr. Williams hand him the poem. He looks down at the page filled with hurt and disapproval and every personal thing that he didn't think he'd be reading out loud. He starts reading. He can barely get through a couple lines before his voice cracks and he stops.

"Well, come on. Continue, Mara." The teacher says in an arrogant tone.

Marty turns his head with a few rebel tears threatening to fall at any moment. His voice is broken as he says. "Why are you doing this to me?"

"Because I'm the teacher and I can."

With that, Marty throws the paper to the ground and runs past him out of the room.TJ and Cyrus instinctively stand up to follow him. Mr. Williams shoots his attention to them. "Where do you think you two are going?"

Cyrus stays quiet but does not sit down. TJ knows Cyrus would be too nervous to talk to disobey a teach so he responds instead. "To see if he is okay!" The blond replies.

"She made her decision. Now get back in your seats before I write you two up too for disrupting my class."

HE was crying, sir! Do you not have a heart?!"

"Settle down, Mr. Kippen! Or I will see you in detention tomorrow!"

"You know what?! Do it then, give me as many damn detentions as you want." Cyrus puts his hand on TJ's shoulder to calm him down.

"Why are you doing this? Why do you care?" He says sternly.

"Because Marty is my best friend."

"Mara." Williams corrects.

"No, Marty. He is my best friend. But you want to know why else I care?" He asks rhetorically before looking to Cyrus for reassurance. Once he does this he knows there is no going back. Cyrus slides his hand down to TJ's, interlocking their fingers so TJ knows he has backup. TJ takes a deep breath. "I care because I'm trans."

He hears a few shocked whispers from around the room but it's their teacher that looks the most dumbfounded. "You mean, you're a girl, too?"

"No, I'm a guy. And you are a teacher who is about to have two complaints filed with the school board for discrimination. " Now it is TJ who is smirking as he pulls Cyrus with him and past the transphobe pretending to be a teacher.

They find Marty sitting against the row of lockers down the hall from their classroom. Cyrus and TJ sit on either side of him, and Marty just cries. TJ knows he will fill his friend in later on what went down but right now he just needed to be.

[anarcoqueer1994]

Best Friends Forever; Chapter 2: His Other Friends

Chapter 1

The link to the first chapter is above. This is a follow up to the my Reed redemption story. I really enjoy the idea of regretfully bi disaster Reed just trying to make things right.

Also I know it's kind of a mess but please be kind and thank you for reading.

TJ knows he could of done a lot to avoid this mess but he didn't. And now he knows he is screwed. In the group chat earlier that day he asked if anyone wanted to get lunch and of course everyone was down for The Spoon. So now he sits surrounded by his boyfriend, Cyrus; his sister, Amber; her girlfriend, Andi; Marty, Buffy, and Jonah. On most days this wouldn't be a big deal but today he may have neglected to mention some information. 

The bell to the door rings, drawing TJ's attention to the front of the restaurant. Crap, he thinks to himself. It's Reed. It wasn't that he was not happy to see the other blonde, in fact he is the one that invited him. It's just that he did not let any of his friends know that Reed was coming.

A few weeks ago, Reed and TJ began talking again, working to rebuild their friendship. They have been hanging out and texting. He had told Reed that he was going to tell his other friends. But every time he tried, he wasn't sure how to go about it. He knew that even though his friends were good people, they could be a little judgy. So he kept putting it off. Even today he told himself that he was going to tell them before he got here but he didn't. For the past 20 minutes, he just kept panicking internally. Even Cyrus doesn't know.

Buffy sees Reed standing at the door. She leans into the table to whisper. "There's Reed. I wonder what kind of trouble he is going to start to day." She jokes.

"Um actually…" TJ begins to whisper before Andi cuts him off.

She frantically whispers, "Oh my god, he's coming over here, why?"

Moments before Reed is at the table. TJ finally whispers. "I invited him."

All anyone can do is stare at him in shock because Reed was now at the table. He stands nervously near TJ. He tries to put on a friendly smile as he looks around the table. No one is saying anything. TJ clears his throat and says "Hey man, grab a seat." He scoots over closer to Cyrus so that Reed could squeeze a chair in, putting him directly between TJ and Buffy. Buffy noticeably moves her chair closer to Marty and away from Reed.

TJ tries desperately for this to work. He introduces everyone to Reed. He stutters a little when he goes to re-introduce Cyrus, remembering the last time these two met. The only person to actually say hi back was Amber, who has known the boy as long as TJ has. When she does, Andi shoots her a confused look that she just shrugs off.

Reed could feel the tension in the air as everyone stared at him even with TJ's attempt to avoid the awkwardness. Reed decides maybe it would be best to try and make some amends. He was so happy having a friend again in TJ, so he really wanted TJ's other friends to like him. Maybe that way he could do things like sit with them at lunch so he didn't feel so alone. He really wants to try. TJ had had this idea for The Spoon so he decided to give it a shot. He takes a shaky breath and begins to speak.

 "I know this is weird and uncomfortable. But um I really want to be open and clear the air." He cringes at how lame that sounded before continuing. "First I want to say that I'm really sorry, Cyrus for...what happened." Cyrus gives a tense nod, still not saying anything. TJ flashes Reed a smile, showing his support for his anxious friend. So Reed keeps going. "I have been trying to be better, you know? I haven't touched…" he lowers his voice. "a gun since that happened. It was really dumb for me to bring that. So I want to make up for that. I am an open book.  Anything you guys want to know?"

Buffy doesn't hesitate. In a sharp, biting tone she asks, "Yea I want to know when the next time you plan on making that mistake again? And will Cyrus be around this time? Just want to know so I can be prepared for it when you put my best friend's life in danger." She glares. Marty grabs her hand under the table to calm her down. It does not work.

"Buffy…." Reed starts before being cut off by her again.

"No, Reed. Also how long before you start hitting on one of us even though we are all in relationships? That's what you like to do right? Wreck things for everyone else."

"I'm not in a relationship." Jonah interjects. Andi elbows him in the ribs. "Not the point, Jonah." She whispers.

Reed, meets Buffy's eyes. "Those were mistakes…"

"Well, you seem to make a lot of those." She says coldly.

Everyone sits dumbfounded at the table except for TJ. "Buffy could you stop for like 2 minutes?"

"Absolutely not. TJ! He put Cyrus' life at risk! I thought you of all people would understand that!" She raises her voice.

Reed is looking down at the table. He doesn't dare make eye contact with anyone. TJ meanwhile retorts. "I do understand that but you don't know everything! Reed isn't just a bad guy! He has been my best friend since we were little."

She snaps back. "And Cyrus has been mine and I don't want anything to do with anyone who could ever put him in that position he was in that day."

They stopped yelling when the hear the sound of a chair pushing out. Reed hurriedly gets up and walks to the door. TJ instinctively gets up and goes after him. He stops him on the sidewalk outside the diner.

"Reed…"

Reed whips around to stare at TJ. He says "This was a stupid idea, man. I shouldn't have come here. I knew they were never going to give me another chance."

"Buffy is just stubborn, she'll come around."

"No she won't...and you know it. You didn't even bother to tell them I was coming today, did you?"

"It's not like that, I just didn't know how."

"Yea, because you knew deep inside that they would never go for it. "

TJ doesn't know how to reply. He gives the other blonde a guilty frown. Reed lets out a sigh. "Just go back to your other friends. I'll be fine. Text me later if you feel like it." He says sadly and just walks away.

TJ heads back into where his friends are sitting. He sits down to a quiet table. Cyrus instinctively grabs TJ's hand when he notices how Tense TJ looks. Buffy speaks first. "What were you thinking bring him here, Kippen?" She hasn't called him by his last name for a while. 'Are you out of your mind?"

Cyrus interjects "Buffy, I'm sure he has a good explanation...please don't jump down his throat." Cyrus turns to TJ obviously waiting for his boyfriend to explain.

TJ keeps his eyes on the table. "I know I should have said something, but Reed and I started hanging out again."

"When?" Cyrus questions.

"Remember a few weeks ago, when he caught us talking about him? Well I when I went after him, we ended up talking and I don't know, I just...realized how much I missed being his friend. We started hanging  out more and he knows he made mistakes but he is trying to be better."

Cyrus' voice softly asks, "Why didn't you tell me sooner,  Teej?" 

Buffy answers before TJ can. "Because he knows he shouldn't be hanging out with him."

TJ shoots a glance at Buffy. "Why are you being like this?" He pleads.

"I don't understand why you are not being like this! TJ, he could of gotten Cyrus hurt or.. or killed!" The table is dead silent.

TJ lets out a defeated sigh. She is right. He looks over at Cyrus and says softly, "Underdog, if you want me to put an end to this with Reed, I will."

Cyrus shakes his head. "No, obviously he is important to you." The brunette faces Buffy. "Buffy, I love you. But I trust TJ, okay? And if he thinks Reed is worth it, then I don't see why we shouldn't give him a chance."

"Cyrus", Buffy says quietly, "I don't want you to get hurt "

Cyrus gives her an understanding smile. "I won't, I promise. I can look out for myself."

TJ can't stop staring at his amazing boyfriend. He is so understanding and wonderful. He still cannot fathom how he got this lucky. His thoughts were broken by the sound of his sister's voice. "I'm actually really glad you guys are talking again." She smiles as he looks at her. "He always had your back. I was actually surprised when you told me you two weren't friends anymore a few years ago, especially after all he has been through with you."

"Yea, I guess we have been through alot together." He smiles back at her. Buffy, Jonah and Andi still seem apprehensive but stay quiet, as Cyrus, Amber, and Marty listen to TJ speak.  He tells them about he and Reed grieving up together, all the good times they had. All the times Reed stood up for TJ when other kids were mean.(Reed and the Kippens had gone to the other elementary school in town, meaning they had never crossed paths with the GHC until middle school.) 

While listening to his boyfriend speak, Cyrus figured out what he had to do. He could see how important Reed was to TJ. Also anyone that cared for TJ that much, who stood up for him when no one else would, couldn't be all bad. Maybe Reed was worth a little effort? Maybe he did deserve a second chance.

******************

Reed sat in his room, blasting his music far too loud in hopes he could drown out all the thoughts racing in his head. He felt so defeated. He had worked so hard to try and make things right with TJ, and he really wanted TJ's other friends to like him so maybe he wouldn't have to just settle for having a sometimes friend, a friend that could only hang out with him when all the rest were too busy.

He lays on his side, lost in the flood of anger and sadness that he had been working so hard to get past. Maybe Buffy was right? Maybe what he did was too bad to forgiven? His phone is vibrating on his desk with texts from TJ. He ignores it, not being able to face the messages that popped up on his glowing screen.

Fuck. He thinks to himself. He thought he was finally going to be happy again, not so lonely. But he should've known better. TJ couldn't even tell his other friends that Reed was coming. He should have known that he was asking too much. A tear starts to roll down his cheek as some Blink 182 song blasts in the background. He doesn't try to stop it. It feels like his head is an endless pit full of negative thoughts, switching between self pity and self deprecation.

 He is so lost in this pit that he doesn't notice someone has come in until he hears the music click off. He sits up and turns to face the intruder. It was his mom standing near the speakers. She was wearing a sad smile on her face as she looks at the tear stained face of her son. She says softly, "Hey baby, a friend from school is downstairs. He says he has to talk to you. Can I let him up?"

Reed assumes it is TJ, though he does find it odd that his mother did not call him by his name. She has known TJ for years. Nevertheless, he nods his head. She leaves the room with another soft, reassuring smile. Moments later he hears someone climb the steps. When the person steps into the doorway, he  can't believe his eyes. It wasn't TJ. It was Cyrus. The brunette timidly asks "May I come in?"

Reed simply nods his head. He tries to put on an emotionless expression to disguise the sadness that was just filling his features as Cyrus walks to a desk chair near his bed. Cyrus though can immediately see the hurt in the other boy's face. He says softly "I'm sorry."

This catches Reed off guard. He was expecting Cyrus to be mad. He though Cyrus would want to tell Reed to stay away from his boyfriend or something cliché like that. He has no idea why Cyrus would be saying sorry.

"Why...why are you apologizing to me? The blonde manages to say. "I'm the one who messed up."

"Yea. You did mess up. But you already apologized, and from talking Teej, I know you haven't made that mistake since. So it is my turn to apologize. I shouldn't have judged you so harshly." Cyrus says in a sincere voice.

"Really?"

"Yea, I was really freaked out when I saw the gun. I was so freaked out that when TJ told me that you two weren't friends anymore, I was content with ignoring the fact you two had history. I didn't see you as a real person, just this one-dimensional guy. I didn't even bother to give you another chance, or even encourage TJ to. Which was wrong. You were actually really nice to me before the gun thing. I didn't even thank you for letting me borrow your helmet and pads when TJ's were too big." Cyrus' face lights up into a big smile.

Reed gives a small smile back. "I...I really appreciate that. " He lets out a little laugh. "Want to hear something dumb?"

"Yeah, sure."

"I was trying so hard to impress you that day. I was even trying to flirt with you."

"Wait, really? I thought I was reading too much into that!" 

"Nope, I was definitely trying to flirt. But don't worry, it's not because I had a crush on you or anything. I'm not going to try and steal you away from TJ." He laughs again. "I was trying to make TJ jealous because it was so obvious that he was into you and I wanted him to make his move."

Cyrus blushes like crazy. "You knew he liked me back then? Did he tell you?"

"What do you think?" Reed retorts. "Of course he never said it out loud. But it was so plain to see whenever he talked about you!"

"Well, thanks for trying to be TJ's wingman, even if it went terribly wrong."

"What can I say? I am not always the best at thinking things out. But TJ was...and I hope still is...my best friend. There is almost nothing I wouldn't do for him. Even when we weren't talking, I still cared about him. That's why I am glad he has someone who cares about him as much as you do." Reed gives off a bright smile. 

"And I am glad he has a friend like you." Cyrus beams back. "Hey, can I ask you something?"

"Yea, go right ahead."

"You don't have to answer if you don't want to but...why did you break Tyler and his girlfriend up a few weeks ago?"

"Well...um like I told TJ, I was pretty lonely and it felt good to be in control. But...also." He looks away.

"What?" Cyrus urges.

"You can't tell TJ, okay? I don't want to bring up bad memories for him."

"Bad memories. What kind of bad memories?"

"Well, Tyler went to the same elementary school as me, TJ and Amber. Obviously he was in Amber's grade because they are both seniors now. There was a day at recess when we were in the first grade so he was a third grader. Amber had gone home sick that day and apparently she had usually forced him to not bother TJ. But since she wasn't there, he came up to us and started calling TJ a girl and all these really shitty transphobic things. And then TJ started to cry so I kicked Tyler in the…you know." At that Cyrus laughs despite himself.

Reed continues. "So fast forward to now, and I know he has forgotten about it, but I haven't. I made out with his girlfriend when she came onto me. I thought it would be good enough revenge because part of me still cared about TJ and how sad it made me seeing him cry. But then one day in the hall after seeing you guys at the lockers looking so happy, I felt like trash. So I decided to kill two birds with one stone. I knew he was a closet case and it didn't take long to get to him. For a few moments it felt nice. Someone wanted me, you know? But it like also felt good to make him feel as bad as he made TJ feel back then. But then it didn't feel good anymore. And I regret it. It was stupid. I know I am not a good person."

Cyrus gives him an understanding smile. "Yea, it was stupid but...i don't think you aren't a good person. I love that you care so much for TJ. He told me you were the first person he ever came out to and that you were always protective of him. Maybe just work on impulsive decisions?" Cyrus cracks a smile.

Reed chuckles back. "Thank you...and I'll try."

"Good. So… do you have any embarrassing stories of TJ from when you were younger?" Cyrus jokes.

"Plenty." Reed gives a devilish grin. 

The boy spent the rest of the afternoon trading stories about TJ and getting to know each other. To all his friends' surprise, Cyrus even sits with Reed the next day in the cafeteria at lunch, prompting them all to join. TJ happily sat between his best friend and his boyfriend.Even if there is work to be done still, school was now a less lonely place for Reed.

[anarcoqueer1994]

Okay, I know like I put this in a story but I really like the idea of Buffy throwing hands with Kira after she says some really transphobic shit to either Marty or TJ. I just enjoy the idea of protective Buffy and my two favorite trans bois being respected and cared for. Also even Cyrus support the use of violence in this situation.

[anarcoqueer1994]

Don't Let Me Go

*This is a Trans!TJ story I wrote a month ago on Archive of Our Own. Hope you like it. (Also you are still so valid if you dont pass or dont want to pass <3)

TJ was a boy. He had always felt like a boy. Even when he was young, and he would be put into cutesy little dresses like the girls in his class(he knows some boys wear dresses, he just doesn't feel great in them.), or when people would call him she/her, or when the other boys would exclude him because "No Girls Allowed", he knew he was a boy.

In the third grade, his wonderful mother, let him chop off his long hair and let him start wearing "boy's clothes." Some kids were mean of course but his big sister, Amber, wouldn't let anyone mess with him.

The most painful person to remember was Jay. Jay promised to be his best friend. But as soon as he started dressing more like a traditional boy, Jay made fun of him for being a freak. He said he was not a real boy. It broke his heart.

TJ never wanted to feel hurt like that again. TJ began forcing himself to be meaner, tougher, anything to make himself seem more masculine. He desperately wanted to pass. He did not want anyone to question who he was, that he was a boy. Unfortunately, one thing held him up from being able to hide that he was a trans boy, everyone in his class remembered when he presented as a girl, and many of them never quite treated him like a "real" boy. It was not fair. He was a boy just like all the other guys in his class but just because he was born with different parts, he was treated differently.

This all changed in middle school. Shadyside had a few different schools depending where you lived in town. TJ's mother talked to the school district, and managed to get him sent to Jefferson. It was across town from him and no one from his elementary school would be there. Only a few teachers would know that he was trans. This was an opportunity for him to blend it.

Unfortunately, this was also a time where puberty was kicking in. So even though he was in a new school, he was still nervous. He began binding the summer before 6th grade. On his first day of Jefferson, he made sure everyone knew that he was a tough guy that should not be messed with. He established himself early as a bully. He figured no one could hurt him if he pushes them away first He also made it clear that he was the best basketball player and by the end of the year he knew he was going to be the captain of the basketball team the following year. Plus he was so glad that he was allowed in the boys team, no question. He goes out of his way though to stay after practice to clean up so he doesn't have to deal with the locker room awkwardness. He has pulled it off, no one knew his secret.

By 7th grade, he could basically do anything. He was a popular jock. But he also had built up a thick wall around him. That's when Buffy Driscoll ruined everything for him. How could coach let a girl on the team? It was a boy only space. No one questioned him being in it because everyone knew he was a boy. Then here comes Buffy, a girl, intruding in. Plus...she was just as good of a player as him. That's really scared him. Basketball was all he had. He wasn't good at math, he felt like a freak whenever he looked in the mirror, he had to work harder and harder to keep his voice deep, but basketball made him feel like he was worth something.

So he was a jerk to her. Part of him felt bad about it but he needed to protect himself. He was even crappy when he was forced to ask her to tutor him. He was doing fine at keeping up being mean until she introduced him to that short, adorable, dork, Cyrus. The moment TJ laid eyes on him and his cute smile, he felt like his world was going to crash down around him. On one hand, he loved that he helped this sweet cutie get a muffin. It made him feel like a tough protector, very manly.

But on the other hand, the butterflies in his stomach were making him feel weak. He can't believe his first crush...is on a guy. He couldn't believe it, not only was he trans, but now he is worried he is gay too. But no matter how worried about getting close to Cyrus or being gay he was, he couldn't help himself.

He remembers seeing the boy swinging alone and he could of just passed by but he didn't. Against his better judgement, he walked up to the boy and started to talk. He was a little saddened when Cyrus thought of him as a scary basketball guy, but that was his own fault. But when he said his name, Cyrus said he knew. TJ smiled to himself thinking about Cyrus knowing his name. .And then that boy smiled at him...no for him.That beautiful smile was for TJ and TJ alone. Cyrus was enjoying hanging out with TJ. TJ thinks about how he laughed and screamed while TJ pushed him on the swing. When his hands touched Cyrus' back, he almost forgot to breathe. Then he ran under the swing and yelled "Underdog." That's when he got to see Cyrus' sweet face as he was swinging.

It was a few weeks later though that he knew for sure that Cyrus had his heart. TJ was angry about feeling stupid and not being allowed in the game. He decided letting Cyrus get close to him was too much of a risk at that moment. He was so mean when Cyrus came to check on him. But then instead of giving up, that persistent boy followed TJ. Cyrus had left the game where his best friend was the star to be with him. Cyrus managed to help him with his feelings towards his learning disability. When he said there was nothing wrong him, TJ knew this Cyrus could see past the mean exterior he put up, and still liked what he saw underneath. And like that TJ's walls started to crumbled down, even if it was just for Cyrus at first.

In the year that followed, he started opening up for others too. He lost some friends, Reed and Lester, but gained better ones in Cyrus' friends. He has to admit he was a little nervous at first with Jonah, given that they played little league together but it's fine. Jonah either doesn't remember that TJ is trans or is just respectful enough not to out him.

He was truly happy right now. It was the first time in his life he felt good about everything going on. It was the weekend during the winter break of his eighth grade year. He, Amber, Andi, Buffy, Marty, Jonah, and of course, Cyrus, were going sledding. They meet up at The Spoon, and walk over to the tallest hill in Shadyside together. On the way over Cyrus is visibly nervous.

Cyrus lets out a nervous laugh. "So anyways, I think I will stay back on the top of the hill and watch every one's stuff. I'm cool not sledding."

Buffy rolls her eyes. "You know you have to face your fear sometime. Come on sledding can be fun."

"Yea, didn't you dirt bike a few months ago? This is way less scary." Andi chimes in.

"Wrong. I had a helmet and padding on. There is nothing separating me and the icy ground if I fall out of the sled. " Cyrus retorts.

TJ lets out a little huff of a laugh. "Underdog, you can go down with me if you want. I mean I can protect you from the ground. I promise I won't let go." TJ smiles. Andi and Buffy exchange knowing looks. TJ become self conscious all of a sudden. "I mean of course if you want to...you don't have to."

"No actually that would be great. Cross another thing off my bucket list. But you gotta keep your promise to protect me, deal?" Cyrus smiles and slips in a little wink.

TJ blushes but hopes people don't notice because of the cold air. His heart feels like it is going to beat out of his chest. He wonders if Cyrus realizes that he is flirting. No, of course he is not flirting. He is probably not even gay. TJ is just reading too much into it, right? He composed himself and says "Deal, Cy."

"Alright Cyrus!" Jonah pats him on the back. "You're going to sled!" TJ subconsciously gets a little jealous of the smile Cyrus flashes at Jonah but ignores the feeling.

They finish making their way to the hill. Marty and Buffy waste no time, already making it a contest to see who can get down to the bottom first. The others are moving more leisurely. Despite the earlier conversation, TJ notices Cyrus standing back. He looks apprehensively at the hill.

TJ walks up to him and says softly, "You don't have to do this, Cyrus." He tries to ignore how close Cyrus is to him right now. He can't believe Cyrus can make him feel so weak.

"No Teej, I...I want to. Let's um do this, okay?" He gives a small smile.

TJ leads the shorter boy over to sleds. He sits down in the back of a long plastic sled and puts his leg on either side of it so Cyrus has room to get in. TJ says one more time. "You don't have to Underdog."

"No I'm going to." Cyrus gets into the sled as confidently as he can. His back is resting against TJ's chest. TJ is pretty sure Cyrus can feel his heart pounding even through a thick winter coat, a hoodie, a t-shirt and his binder. Cyrus says "Now remember, you said you promise you won't let go." The brunette says while looking down at TJ's hands just resting on the sides of them.

"Oh...yeah ..um...sorry." TJ nervously wraps his arms around Cyrus' body. He keeps telling himself that this is no big deal. You are just helping your friend. "Ready, Muffin?" TJ suddenly gets really stiff. He can't believe that came out of his mouth.

"What did you just call me?" Cyrus twists his head around to look at the blonde.

"Oh God, I'm sorry...it just came out...I'm sorry…" TJ starts to ramble.

"No, it's fine. It's cute." Cyrus gives a big smile before turning back around.

Cute. Did Cyrus just call something he did, cute? His head was racing with so many thoughts. He has to remind himself to kick off.

"As I was saying, ready?"

Cyrus nods as TJ kicks off. He feels Cyrus place his own hands over TJs arms as they speed down the hill. Cyrus is yelling like he did that first day at the swing set. TJ can't see his face but know he smiling. And TJ is smiling too like a love struck idiot. He couldn't be gladder that Cyrus could not see him.

Eventually they come to a stop at the bottom of the hill. Cyrus turns his head to look back at TJ again. "That was exhilarating!"

"I told you I would not let anything happen to you." TJ gives a big grin then stares at Cyrus for a moment. Suddenly he realizes he is still holding onto Cyrus' waist. He haistedly goes to remove his arms.

"You could of left your arms there for a bit longer." Cyrus says casually. Oh God, TJ thought, was Cyrus really flirting with him? He doesn't know how it is possible but his heart was beating even faster. Luckily he is saved by Andi calling out to them from the too if the hill.

"Are you guys going to sled some more or sit there all day?" TJ sees Amber giggle by her side.

"We should get back up there." TJ says nervously.

"Yes, that's a good idea." Cyrus agrees before both boys get up and walk back up the hill. The kids spend the rest of the afternoon sledding and then head back to Cyrus' dad's house to warm up. Everyone brought clothes to change into because the snow made the clothes they were wearing soaked.

Marty goes up to the second floor bathroom to change. Unfortunately, Marty doesn't realize someone is already in there when he opens the door to find TJ in the middle of changing. TJ looks mortified as the other boy quickly closes the door, apologizing as he does. TJ's back was to the door, so he isn't sure what Marty saw but he definitely feels exposed. All the worst scenarios play through his head. What if Marty goes and tells everyone what happened? He is pretty sure his friends wouldn't hate him or anything but what if they treat him differently if they knew.

He finishes putting his clothes on and slides quietly out of the bathroom. Marty isn't in the hallway, and he is relieved that he doesn't have to face him yet. He needs a bit before he goes downstairs. He sees an empty guest room a few doors down, so he goes in there to collect his thoughts. He sits on the edge of some really nicely made bed.

He is still in shock over what happened. How could he be so careless to not lock the door? He did so good blending in. He had so many plans. This coming summer, he had convinced his mom to let him start taking T. But now, no matter what he does, his friends are going to see him like his old classmates did. God, just when things were going right.

Then another thought crossed his mind. This is going to blow his chance with Cyrus. How could Cyrus want him if he knew the truth. He felt so defeated. All he wants to do is go home and lay in bed. And to think, a few hours ago, he had Cyrus against his chest and if he did not know any better, he swore Cyrus was flirting with him. He sits alone with his thoughts for a while.

He does not realize how much time he had been in that room until he hears a faint knock on the door.

"Teej? Can I come in?" It's Cyrus. His voice sounds so little. TJ knew it, Cyrus must be disappointed about TJ's secret.

TJ takes all his strength to say "Come in…" He does not turn his head to face Cyrus as he comes into the room. He is not strong enough to face him.

Cyrus speaks first. *TJ, I'm so sorry.'

This catches the blonde off guard. He turns around to meet Cyrus' eyes "Wait, why are you sorry? You didn't do anything."

"I made you feel so uncomfortable today...that's why you are you here avoiding everyone."

"Underdog, I don't know what you are talking about. I'm so confused." TJ scrunches his eyebrows up.

Cyrus starts rambling. "Today, when we were sledding. I mean before we were sledding, Buffy and Andi got it into my head that maybe you liked me the way I liked you. Buffy said I should face my fear and put myself out there. So when you met up with us, I had an idea. I tried my best to flirt, and I thought you may have been flirting back. Like you called me muffin and you held onto my waist for a long time, and I think I read to much into it. I crossed a line and now you can't even be in the same room as me.'

Did Cyrus Goodman just tell him he likes him too. TJ can feel his cheeks go bright red. He is blushing like crazy. Marty must have kept the secret to himself if Cyrus thinks this is the issue. "Wait. Cyrus? Is that what you think? You think I don't want to be in the same room as you? You have to be the oblivious one. I like you so much...I just can't believe you like, like me too." Cyrus steps closer to TJ as the older boy continues to speak. "I loved holding you close to me and I love anytime that I'm with you. I love listening to you talk about anything, and I love that I feel like I can be myself around you. I love when our hands brush together and I love when you smile at me like I'm the only one in the room. I'm not really sure what it means to be in love but if I had to guess, I would say I'm in love with you."

Cyrus' face was now mirroring in redness from blushing. "You mean that Teej?"

"I've never meant anything more."

Cyrus, who is now standing right in front of TJ, leans down and places his fingers under TJ's chin. He gently tilts the basketball player's head to look up at him. His eyes flash down to TJ's lips. Then abruptly, TJ pulls away. "Wait .."

"Oh no, I'm sorry. Am I moving too fast? I just never thought the guy if my dreams would say he loves me as much as I love him." Cyrus goes to step away but TJ grabs his hand.

"It's not that, Cy. I have something I need to tell you before you commit to dating me. You may change your mind."

"You're scaring me TJ." Cyrus says rubbing the rough skin in TJ's knuckles with his thumb.

"I'm honestly scaring myself. But you deserve the truth about me. I'm not like most guys."

"If course you are not. You are better." Cyrus gives a weak smile.

"That's not what I mean. I'm not built the same as you, or Jonah, or Marty. I'm...I'm transgender. And, like, don't get me wrong, I don't hate my body or anything...most days at least, but it is not like most boys our age. And I was in here because Marty walked in in me changing. I didn't have my binder in and I was worried he saw. But it seems like he kept it to himself, which I appreciate. But I wanted you to know and I would understand if you don't want to date me anymore. I get it…" TJ was looking down as he trailed offj, afraid to look at Cyrus' face

Cyrus sits on the edge of the bed next to TJ, still holding the other boy's hand.. He puts his free hand on the side of TJ's head turning it to face Cyrus. "I like...love you TJ. I didn't fall for you because I thought you were a cisboy. I fell for you because you were the cute, sweet, basketball playing boy that managed to steal my heart a little more every time I hung out with you."

"You don't think I'm a freak?"

"Of course not. There is nothing wrong with you."

"You know dating me isn't going to be easy. I plan on transitioning more over the next few years, things like hormones, and maybe surgery. That is alot to deal with."

"Well bring it on. I don't plan on going anywhere as long as you want me, not-so-scary basketball guy. I promise I won't let go."

"You won't? Let go, I mean. You won't leave me even when it is hard?" TJ sounds desperate to believe him. He is so scared of being hurt again like he was when he was younger. He thinks back to the old best friend that abandoned him.

"Never, never ever. I could never let go of you " Cyrus says sincerely.

TJ feels like his insides are on fire. Cyrus was truly the most amazing person he could ask for in his life. Without thinking, TJ leans in and places a gentle kiss in Cyrus' lips. He pulls away slightly to see what happens next. Cyrus answers the unspoken question by leaning back in and deepening the kiss.

When they pull away for air, both boys can't help but grin. "Wow." TJ says. "That was my first kiss and just ..wow."

"I wish it was my first kiss...mine was with a girl, Amber's friend, Iris. I liked it much better with a guy." Cyrus smiles.

TJ knew he made the right chose telling Cyrus. After everything Cyrus just found out, he still sees TJ as just as much a boy as he has ever been. TJ says softly. "Does this mean we are dating now."

"Only if you want it to." Cyrus says in a hopeful voice.

"Then yes, we are dating." TJ smiles and sits in a comfortable silence with his new boyfriend.

[anarcoqueer1994]

First Date

(Note this is chapter two of a fic I wrote during the hiatus. If you want to read the whole thing, the link to my AO3 is in bio. The only background you may need to know for this is that TJ and Cyrus are dating and haven't told anyone. Also Kira is being terrible)

Cyrus Goodman had asked TJ Kippen to be his boyfriend one month ago today .

TJ still could not believe it. Cyrus was everything he has ever wanted. He was sweet, smart, cute, and he cared for TJ in a way no one has before. But TJ would be lying if he said this month hasn’t been an emotional trip. On one hand, things with Cyrus have never been better. In public, it seemed like their "friendship" was just as strong as it has always been. The only difference being that both boys seemed more aware of their own bodies.

They were more self conscious of all the little touches that come so natural for them. They would notice their arms swinging too close together, their hands lingering a little too long when they would touch, and even their eyes staring at the other boy. This used to seem so normal for them, but now that they were dating, it became almost scary to do these things. Both of them were not ready to come out. The only people that knew Cyrus was gay were Andi, Jonah, Buffy, and obviously, TJ. For TJ it was even less, as the only people that knew were Cyrus and TJ’s older sister, Amber. And absolutely nobody knew that they were dating.

After what Kira started, neither one of them wanted to accidentally out each other by acting like more than friends. That’s why their little touches and lingering eyes became such an issue. Kira could obviously tell how the boys felt about each other within moments of hearing them interact with one another. What if others could tell too?  They decided that the best thing they could do to keep their secret was to place boundaries between them when they are with other people.

On top of this, Kira is also not letting up on TJ. She is constantly trying to get into TJ’s head. The coach told her that since there is girl’s team, she cannot be on the boy’s team. So now instead of putting her energy towards getting on the team, she is focusing all her time on tormenting him. She will wait for him to be alone and remind him that he is different. She will sometimes bring up how weird it is that he and Cyrus are so close. She would do little things to hurt him. Anything she does in front of others is so subtle, that others don't notice. For example she brings up cute girls while talking to him around other students, and puts him in awkward situations. For a random onlooker, it would look like small talk, but TJ knows she is doing it to get a rise out of him. He doesn't know why she enjoys making him feel bad. The one upside is that Kira has no proof that he and Cyrus are together, so for now at least, his bullying is private. TJ prefers that to the whole school knowing.

He doesn't tell Cyrus that Kira is still bothering him either. TJ does not want  him to worry. Besides Cyrus had his own things to deal with. For one, since they haven't told the GHC(+Jonah), that they are dating, they could not really explain what led to them being friends again. He could feel their glares whenever he would hangout. Part of him gets it though. To them, he was a jerk who keeps letting down their best friend. But nevertheless, Cyrus is now stuck in the middle. He has to keep their secret while defending TJ. Cyrus wanted his boyfriend to be able to hangout with his friends without them hating him, even if they did not know that they are dating. TJ kind of felt guilty for putting Cyrus in this situation in the first place by ever giving them a reason to be mad.

Despite all of this trouble, TJ would not trade this past month for anything. No matter what was happening with other people, when they were alone, it made it all worth it. Sometimes they would escape to the swings, and just spend hours talking, and if they were sure no one was watching, they would steal gentle kisses. Sometimes, they would take over TJ's apartment when both his parents and sister were at work. They would cuddle on the futon in the living room and binge TV shows together. It really didn't matter where they were, as long as they were alone together, it was like they were the only people who existed.

Cyrus really did make him the happiest he has ever been. His beautiful, dorky boyfriend always knew the right thing to say to make him feel like he really mattered. That is why today, on their one month anniversary, he wants to make Cyrus as happy as Cyrus makes him feel everyday. It is a Saturday but he put the first part of his plan into action the day prior.

************

Yesterday had been a particularly hard day for him. Kira was in his math class. Usually she ignored him and waited until after to torment him but that day she started at him early. She had sat behind him. They were assigned some in class problems to do. She was pretty good at math and wanted him to feel even worse. Whenever she noticed he was struggling, she would say stuff like “Only an idiot could mess up this problem” and “Wow these are so easy!” She would only say it loud enough for him to hear.He had been working so hard in math and she was able to dash any confidence he may have felt about being able to do a problem. He ended up losing his temper, crumbling up his paper, and turning in nothing. He could not even look at Coleman as he left.

He had walked home with Cyrus, Buffy, Andi, Marty, and Jonah. Cyrus’ friends didn’t help his mood, but to not worry Cyrus, he pretended to be oblivious.  He could tell the others did not want him there but Cyrus kept smiling at him with his big brown eyes glowing, so he could ignore the annoyed looks. Eventually everyone broke off heading to their respective homes, leaving him to walk with Cyrus the rest of the way to Cyrus’ stepmom’s house. As they stepped onto the porch, TJ nervously smiled.

“What is it, Teej? “ Cyrus said as he swung his hand up gently to take TJ’s as they stood across from each other. Both boys instinctively looked around to make sure no one was watching.

“Nothing, Muffin.” He noted the way Cyrus still blushed when he called him that. He liked that he had that effect on the guy that he cared so much for. “I am so happy whenever I am around you.So…” He let his words han in the air for a moment. ‘I was wondering if you would go on a date with me, tomorrow?”

“Like a real date?” Cyrus furrowed his brow in a way that makes TJ swoon every time. Cyrus’ voice though was unsure as he continued. “Aren’t dates out in the public? What if someone sees us?”

“Don’t worry, I have that covered, just be at the bus stop on Main Street at 9am tomorrow, “ TJ saw the look of curiosity in Cyrus eyes as they've stared at each other. “It is going to be a surprise, I know you are going to love it.”

Cyrus smiled and nodded. “Alright I trust you. I have to head in. See you tomorrow?”

“Yea, tomorrow." TJ grinned like an idiot, before placing a light kiss on top of Cyrus’ head, and turning to walk away.

************

The big city nearest to them was about a 30 minute bus ride from Shadyside. That is why TJ asked Cyrus to meet him here at the bus stop.  Cyrus had gotten there at 9am sharp, to find TJ waiting on the bench. He took a seat next to his boyfriend, careful not to sit too close in case someone was watching. TJ turned his head and smiled at the other boy.

"Hey Underdog," He lowers his voice. "Happy one month of officially being us."

Cyrus liked the way that TJ remembered something as small as a one month anniversary. He loved that TJ wanted to make today special for him. He whispers "Happy Anniversary Not-So-Scary Basketball Guy."

Both boys sat in a comfortable silence as they waited for the bus. TJ knew Cyrus wanted to ask where they were going but both boys knew TJ wasn’t going to budge. All he wanted to do was surprise Cyrus with the best date ever. When the bus pulled up to the stop, both boys got on with TJ paying both their fares. He had saved all his money from the gym(he only worked 12 hours a week) the past month to pay for this date. Cyrus was usually picking up the tab because he knew the Kippen family wasn’t nearly as well off as him. But today TJ wanted to handle everything.

As they took their seats in the back, TJ slid into the window seat. He looked out the window and noticed clouds overtaking the sun. Great, rain . He thought sarcastically. He thought about what else may come if it storms. He was a little nervous, but brushed it off. He turned to Cyrus, who was smiling obliviously, and said "There goes that sunny day."

"It is okay, as long as I am with you, it doesn't matter. Today will be great." With that, TJ melted. Cyrus always knew what to say to make him feel better.

************

When they got out the city, it was still so cloudy. It looked like it would storm any moment. TJ pleads with the weather quietly to hold off until they get to where they are going. The bus stop is a block away from where are heading. No one knows them here and TJ is excited to actually go on a real date with Cyrus. He smiles at the shorter boy as they step off the bus. As they stand on the crowded sidewalk, TJ takes Cyrus' hand. He stares for a moment to make sure it is okay. When Cyrus does not pull away, TJ takes that as a hint to start walking. Both boys felt a little braver out here where no one knew them.

TJ pulls Cyrus down the street, weaving in and around people coming towards them. As they get closer to the mystery place, TJ gets more excited, and by the look on Cyrus' face, he feels the same. After a few minutes, the place comes into view. TJ stops at the bottom of a large set of steps. Cyrus' eyes grow large as he looks up at the building before them; The Natural History Museum.

Teej! Really?! I love this place. I haven't been here in years." His eyes light up as he gets more excited. "You are amazing."

"I'm glad you are happy. I figured you could show me all your favorite dinosaurs." TJ smiles softly. "Let's go." TJ pulls him up the stairs. He pulls the tickets out of pocket and hands them to the man near the door.

As they enter the museum, they are immediately surrounded by large skeletons of animals that long been dead. TJ doesn't think he has ever seen Cyrus look so excited. He begins to talk about all the different types of dinosaurs, and the time periods, and everything else that at one point TJ wouldn't of cared about. He is pretty sure Cyrus could make him care about anything.

They wander around the museum for about an hour. Rain had steadily started hitting the rooftop,  the small droplets working together to echo through the museum. It was raining pretty heavy now, and TJ silently began to get nervous again of what will come next. Cyrus noticed the tension in TJ's face and stopped talking about the Allosaurus skeleton they were staring at.

"What is it?" He said quietly to the slightly older boy.

"Nothing..." He lies. Right as the word leaves his mouth, a loud burst of thunder sounds, shaking the museum. TJ instinctively clenches his eyes shut and squeezes Cyrus' hand harder than intended. His cheeks turn red as he notices Cyrus staring.

"I'm sorry..." he whispers, almost too quiet to hear. TJ looks away while still holding Cyrus' hand. Another burst of thunder sounds, making TJ tense again.

"Teej" Cyrus reaches up to his face to get him to turn his head. When he sees TJ's eyes, he recognize fear in his beautiful green eyes. He hates to see his boyfriend afraid. "Are you afraid of thunder?"

TJ looks embarrassed. He can't bring his mouth to form the words he wants to say. He knows Cyrus won’t judge him for something like this. But he is not used to being the one with irrational fears. He wishes he wouldn’t wince every time the thunder boomed. He can’t help it. He has been afraid of thunder for as long as he can remember. He doesn't know what about it makes him feel so helpless. Most of the time, he finds himself hiding under his covers with his eyes shut, waiting for the storm to end. But he can’t do that now. All he can do is try and put on a brave face and ride it out.

Cyrus interrupts his thoughts. “It's okay to be afraid, you know?” His voice is soft and understanding. “I’m afraid of a whole lot of things. Remember the flamingos? That is way weirder” He laughs trying to cheer TJ up. TJ wishes Cyrus wouldn’t put himself down, though. This day was supposed to be all about Cyrus, but here he was trying to make TJ feel better. TJ felt a little bad about that but could not focus on that very long.

The thunder hits again, this time even louder. The storm must be pretty bad. TJ wishes he could disappear so Cyrus wouldn't see him like this. He was supposed to be the cool, fearless jock but right now he felt like a wimp. He wanted to always be brave in front of his boyfriend. Cyrus doesn't seem to care though. He is only concerned with being there for TJ.

Cyrus runs his thumb soothingly over the TJ's strained knuckles. He whispers "I have an idea…", before pulling TJ to a little bench off to side of one of the large skeletons. He pulls out a pair of earbuds from his pocket and plugs them into the jack in his phone. Cyrus flips through his Spotify with his free hand as TJ sits apprehensively by his side, squeezing his hand with every boom from outside. Cyrus settles on a playlist called "Songs That Make Me Think of TJ".  TJ sees the name, and for a moment he smiles, before the thunder outside reminded him of its presence.

"Put these on, sweetie." Cyrus says quietly, careful not to draw attention to them. He would hate to embarrass TJ. He knows the other boy is feeling self-conscious about his fear. TJ takes the earbuds and puts them in his ears. TJ trusts Cyrus more than anyone in the world, so he will do whatever Cyrus says. With that, Cyrus hits play and turns the volume all the way up. He takes his other arm out of TJ’s hand and wraps it instead around TJ's waist pulling him close to him, and holding tight like he will never let go.

The loud, bubbly music blocks out  a lot of the noise from the thunder. Cyrus’ arm wrapped around him, pulling him impossibly close, gives him something else to think about.They sit their for a while. Though the museum is full of people, it feels like they are alone there. His heartbeat is still crazy fast, but the reason is much different now.It was no longer pounding because of fear. Instead it is fluttering from the nerves he feels because of Cyrus. He feels so lucky to have him in his life. He blushes as he listens to the songs that he know Cyrus picked out for him.

What he doesn’t notice, is how happy Cyrus seems to be because of him. Cyrus is just staring at  him, smiling as he holds the taller boy against him. Cyrus hopes that TJ knows that this relationship is not one sided. TJ truly makes him happy. That’s why he was so worried when TJ was scared. He never wants fear to cloud over those soft, green eyes. He will personally fight away any fear for his boyfriend.

After about forty minutes, the storm has seemed to pass. TJ had taken to leaning his head against Cyrus’ shoulder, even if some slouching was involved to get into that position. Cyrus almost hates to end this but know TJ has other plans for them. He softly shakes TJ o get his attention. The boy takes out the earbuds and sits up. Cyrus grins and says “The storm is over, how are you feeling?”

“Much better…” He blushes and looks at the ground. “Thank you...for..um...making me feel safe.” TJ internally rolls his eyes at his own words. Why did he say that out loud. He sounded so weak.

“No need to thank me. What are boyfriends for, right?”  Cyrus’ smile could light up the entire room.

“Right.” TJ really can’t understand how Cyrus manages to make him feel so great, even when he wants to feel bad about himself. He thought about telling Cyrus about what was going on at school. He decided against it though. He already made too much of this date about himself. He stands up, and grabs Cyrus hand again. “Let’s get back to these dinosaurs. There are so many you still have not told me about.”

************

After spending a few more hours at the museum, the boys headed to a restaurant around the corner and had lunch. They strolled through the city for a bit before realizing it was close to 5 and that they should be at least heading back to their town. On the bus ride back, Cyrus rested his head on TJ’s shoulder. Usually Cyrus would be worried about this but today he was feeling a little braver than usual.

TJ walked Cyrus home after they got off the bus. Cyrus’ street seemed vacant when they turned onto it, so they risked locking their pinkies together as they walked. TJ felt like he was on top of the world. Even with the thunder earlier, today had felt like the perfect day. He kept shooting glances over at Cyrus, taking in every detail. He memorized the way Cyrus looked right now with the late day sun shining through the trees onto him. He almost looked angelic, like he was too good to be a mere human.

Without thinking, TJ stops and cups Cyrus’ cheek, making it so they are staring at each other. He just needed to get a better look. TJ surveyed every part of the shorter boy’s face. It was like everytime he looks, he finds something else to love about it. He felt like the brown eyes staring back at him could peer into his very soul. The boys stay frozen in this stance until they hear a soft rustle of some bushes. They both immediately retract from each other, and look around. Neither of them see anyone, but they keep their distance the rest of the walk home, just in case. TJ silently beats himself up for slipping like that. He can’t be so careless.

As they step up onto Cyrus’ front porch, they can finally breathe again. They are covered by a large tree in his front yard that blocks parts of the porch. “Thank you for a wonderful time today, Teej.” Cyrus smiles.

“I should be thanking you, You really came through for me today.” TJ used this as opportunity to show Cyrus how thankful he really was. He leans in and brushes his lips against Cyrus, waiting for permission to deepen the kiss. Cyrus responds by pulling him closer, pushing their lips together more. They eventually had to come up for air, and pulled apart.

“Wow, I don’t think I am ever going to stop being nervous when you do that.” Cyrus said blissfully.

“Right back at you, Underdog.”