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Two Hearts I Hold

Part 2 of the fic I posted last year😬 Sorry for the wait, guys, life's been wild.If you read this like you're watching a romcom, it'll probably be better🥲 Based on the ask sent by @youmiyoumo to @the-kr8tor. Lovely banners made by @cafekitsune❤️

Pairing: Ekko x Reader x Hobie Brown/ Ekko x Reader x Spider-Punk! Hobie Brown

Word Count: 20.3k

Tags: fluff, soulmate au(red string of fate), modern au(they're all in Hobie's universe, really), cursing, cw! food mention, cw! alcohol mention, tw! catcalling (slight), tw! harassment (slight), tw! name calling (slight), (this sounds way worse than it is💀), no physical description of R (besides clothing), can be read as any gender, sparse use of y/n(just once, really), your friends being utterly cute and sappy ew, childhood friends to eventual lovers, everyone is a little dumb (for a reason trust)

Summary: Deep down inside of you, you'd always known the truth.

Part 1 <<< Part 2

Fingers shuffling through the stack of papers littered about on the coffee table, Ekko can feel his frustration growing the longer he stares at the numbers before him. Hazel brown eyes narrowing and frown deepening, he huffs and shuffles the papers once more. It didn't matter how many times he crunched the numbers in his head, the only solution to his current predicament glaringly obvious. Twisted locs slipping from his bun and framing his face, his skin prickles and his breath hitches at the feeling of something brushing his hair away from his eyes. Whipping his head up at the source, he has to restrain himself from smacking the stupid smiling punk before him, eyes narrowing at the way the man dangles upside down from the ceiling.

“You're gonna get frown lines, ‘Ko.” Russet brown eyes filled with mirth, Hobie chuckles as he drops down to the floor, landing almost gracefully on his feet and hands tugging the web he'd been hanging from off of the ceiling.

“Fuck, man…”, Ekko breathes out as the tension in his shoulders eases up, scowl painted on his lips. “I thought I told you to stop it with that crap. One of these days, I'm gonna have a heart attack and it'll be your fault.”

Hobie just smiles and tilts his head, plopping down on the worn brown couch and slinging his arm around the tense man's shoulders. Focus shifting back towards the paper in his hands, he can feel the punk's intense gaze on him, skin buzzing at the attention. The frown on his face falls and he raises an eyebrow in question, head turning to face the man who looks at him so fondly.

“You're back earlier than I thought you'd be. Slow night?”

“Mhm, ‘s all quiet for once. Wha's got you all miffed though, hm? Could feel it a mile away…” Hobie mumbles as he brings up a hand towards Ekko's face, fingers tenderly brushing underneath the slight bags under the man's eyes before tracing the lighter patches of skin speckled along his face. The corners of his lips quirk up into a smile at the slight scrunching of his nose from the action. Hobie could remember the day the patches first appeared on him, Ekko freaking out slightly at his skin turning a lighter shade. As it spread the older he got, he grew more and more self conscious about his appearance. And only when Hobie had kissed him senseless the day they officially moved in together did he start to slowly take pride in it, whispering words of affection against his skin over and over until the white haired man could feel himself melting into a puddle of goo.

Ekko lets out a sigh and leans against the punk, left hand moving up to hold the one draped over his shoulder and right hand brushing against the one on his lap. The string that connects them gives off a soft red glow and Hobie pulls his love closer, the papers now sprawled all over the wooden coffee table.

“It's rent, Bee. It just keeps going up and between that and the other shit we gotta pay for, it ain't looking too good…” Teeth worrying at his bottom lip, Ekko glances down at the frustrating documents once more before shaking his head. “At this point, we might have to dip into our sav–”

“–Gonna stop you right there”, Hobie interrupts, shaking his head and moving his body to face the shorter man, his hands moving to gently grip at his arms. “We agreed that money's off limits, yeah? ‘S for your store.”

Sucking his teeth, the white haired man rolls his eyes. He knew Hobie wouldn't agree to dipping into their funds, so adamant on getting Ekko his dream shop so that he could put his many different innovative skills to use.

“It would help, Hobes. Just take a bit and we'll put it back in no time.”

“Not happenin’. Once you start takin’ from the stash, it gets harder to keep your mitts out of it. Well known fact, innit.” Opening his mouth to refute his fact that, weirdly enough, made perfect sense, the look in the punk's narrowed russet brown eyes was enough to make him bite back his words. Fingers coming up to scratch at the back of his head and a resigned huff leaving his lips, Ekko looks up at Hobie with a raised brow.

“Only other idea I have is getting a roommate, but the possibility of them finding out you're Spider-Man is…” That makes Hobie sit back a bit, teeth worrying at his lip ring as he contemplates the options they both have. They could always go and get some freelance jobs, but there's never the guarantee of even getting some work that way. And with him being Spider-Man, there was always the chance that a new roommate could spot him coming into the window in the dead hours of the night. Not to mention that one spare room they have filled with his gadgets and web-shooters.

“...Let's get someone we know to move in”, he finally says after a moment of silence, and Ekko groans, his body slumping back on the cushions.

“All of our friends have homes, Bee. And most of them don't know you can stick to walls.”

“Ned knows…!”

“Yeah but Ned is getting ready for his girlfriend to move down here in the next few months, remember?” Hobie lets out a low curse. He'd forgotten about that, about his friend's mysterious long distance girl he'd met online two years ago that he refused to introduce to his friends until she moved to London. He'd found it a little weird, but who was he to judge, especially seeing how happy his long time friend was. Resting his head against the couch, the punk gazes up at the ceiling as both him and Ekko muse their current situation. Both of them would rather their roommate be someone they knew, someone they could trust. And as the silence stretches on, Hobie's fingers move to fiddle with the guitar pick around his neck absentmindedly, his thoughts drifting to the only other person besides the man sitting at his side that shares a necklace so similar.

“...Know who'd be the perfect fit, ‘Ko…?” Hobie hums softly, a fond smile flitting across his face. Huffing out a little chuckle, Ekko moves himself so that his head rests against the taller man's shoulder. Because he did know. The only person they really, truly wanted as their roommate was miles away. Their missing link, the only other person who was against the world with them. Russet brown eyes flit over to meet hazel brown ones, the same thought seemingly dawning on them both. Hobie raises his eyebrows at the man just as Ekko lifts himself off of the couch to gather his computer. It's been a while since you three talked anyhow.

**********

Loud ringing from your computer jolts you awake and you snap your head up from where your cheek had been pressed on your papers with a snort, a thin line of drool trailing down your chin that you lazily wipe away with the back of your hand. A groan leaves you as you rub tentatively at your aching back. Perhaps you shouldn't have fallen asleep hunched over the coffee table from your seat on the floor, the slight pop of your joints making you wince. But between the warm afternoon sunlight peeking through the blinds and the stupid amount of homework in front of you, it wasn't that hard to drift off. Blinking away the bleary haze of sleep and focusing on the caller ID, you instantly sit up straighter at the name, wiping the cold slobber decorating your arm onto your shirt. Fingers tapping the keyboard, you give the two men that pop up on the screen a warm smile, as if you hadn't been dead to the world just a few moments ago.

“Hi, Hobie! Hi, Ekko!” You greet them before clearing your throat, trying to rid yourself of the sleep induced slurring of your words. The punk before you stifling his chuckle and the white haired man beside him quirking his lips up into a smile, you raise a questioning eyebrow at them. “What? What's so funny?”

“It's only around two o'clock where you're at. Were you sleeping, trouble?” Ekko hums, a knowing glint in his hazel brown eyes.

“N-No…” You stammer, lying straight through your teeth. “What makes you say that?” Smile lighting up his features, Hobie taps his cheek a few times, nodding to you.

“Essay ’s on your face, lovely.” Eyes wide, you grab your phone and bring it up towards your face. Sure enough, there was black and blue ink from your papers printed on your left cheek, the words on the parchment smudged. Sighing, you rub the ink away with your palm, gazing back over at the two men on your screen, their amused chuckles sounding in your ear. “Still drowning in homework, yeah?”

“Like you wouldn't believe”, you groan, a scowl on your face as you bunch up the ruined work in your hands. Now you'd have to rewrite that whole page because of course your professor wanted a handwritten essay instead of a typed one. Your friends did warn you that Professor Viktor was a tough one. “Why do I even need stupid science? I'm majoring in English!”

“Hobes and I keep saying we can help you with your homework. But you never call”, Ekko says with a sigh and you give an apologetic smile.

“I want to, but I feel bad everytime. It's always late over there when I actually start…”

“Bug, I live with this nerd. You really think I get any sleep anymore with this thing around?”

“Look who's talkin’”, Hobie grumbles as he scrunches his nose up in indignation. “Caught this weirdo tinkerin’ with his doohickeys ‘till almost five in the mornin’.”

“Not the doohickeys. You two losers need a better sleep schedule”, you mutter while trying not to laugh at the way Ekko looks at Hobie as though he'd been snitched on. “Though, I can't really say I'm any better.”

“We'll get there one of these days. Maybe… Hopefully…” The way you three visibly cringe at the thought of never fixing your sleep schedule makes laughter flow between you then. Hand absentmindedly drifting up to touch the pick hanging around your neck, you don't notice the way the two men's eyes soften, their gazes warm as they peer at you through the screen. Conversation flows effortlessly between you three after that, as it always did. No matter how many years have passed, that feeling of easiness and familiarity never wavered. The thought makes your heart feel warm, grateful that at least some things never change.

You three talk about anything and everything while they help you with the rest of your essay, ranging from what you've eaten in the past week to plans for the future and what you all want out of life. So caught up in telling your beloved childhood bffs about the time you caught your science professor making out with his supposed rival professor, you don't notice the way Hobie's eyes drift upward, his gaze lighting up at something behind you.

“–And then, Professor Talis begged me not to say anything. Which, I mean, of course I wasn't going to–.” The feeling of something brushing along the back of your neck makes you jump, a squeak of surprise leaving you as your hand darts up to find the source. Fingers intertwining with your own, you crane your neck upward, the playful shit-eating grin of your roommate greeting you. You can hear both Ekko and Hobie chuckling.

“Talking with your boyfriends, I see”, Serenity says merrily, all too pleased with herself for startling you. With a huff, you shoot her an annoyed glare while trying to ignore the heat rushing to your cheeks at her words. Resting her chin atop your head, she gives the two men on the screen a smile. “How's it been, you two?”

“Been a while, Reni. You taking care of our bug?”

“Always, always. Don't know what's gonna happen when I move next month, though. Poor thing might starve.” Sighing dramatically and softly patting your cheek, you grumble curses under your breath at the teasing.

“Ya movin’”, Hobie asks while leaning against Ekko, eyebrows raised with mild surprise. Serenity nods, moving to plop herself down on the loveseat behind you. You move your head a little so that she can be seen. “Jus’ to another flat or…?”

“Nah. I'm gonna be living over there. Taking over my great aunt's café and all.”

“That's crazy. Need me and Bee to come get you from the airport?”

“Sweet of y’all, but my boyfriend is gonna pick me up and stuff.”

That makes them look at her in surprise. For as long as they've known about Serenity being a good friend you'd made once moving to California, not once was it mentioned that she has a boyfriend. Especially one living in London.

“Lovely, you ain't tell us your friend has a bloke livin’ down ‘ere.”

“Not really my place to say, Bee. Besides”, you huff as you fix the stack of papers in front of you, “nobody wants your scary asses jumping the poor guy.” Ekko sucks his teeth at that and Hobie scoffs, both of them feigning indignation.

“That ain't true, bug. We'd just rile him up a bit, not full on jump him.”

“Yeah. Can't have a creep hangin’ ‘round our ducky's nanny.”

“Oh, fuck off.”

“Shut the hell up. Laughing at the way both you and Serenity flip them off, Hobie leans back against the couch while Ekko brings the camera back with them.

“Can't believe you're really coming down here, though. You gonna be okay living by yourself, trouble? Or… got any plans of coming to London anytime soon…?” Ekko's question just oozes with hope, the shine in both of their eyes making your heart feel tight in your chest. You knew the question was coming, felt it as the seasons changed and the temperature outside grew warmer. Summer was coming, which meant school was almost over and you'd promised them that you'd try to come visit them if you had the time. They'd asked before if it'd be easier if they came to you, but you'd shaken your head and said you really wanted to come back to England. There were things there that you missed, their company included. Mustering up an apologetic smile, you shake your head.

“Sorry, guys… Not this time…” Disappointment makes itself known on their faces for just a split second before they gift you looks of understanding. It makes your heart ache, having shot down any hope they might have had. Hobie waves away your apology.

“Ain't nothin’ to apologize for. If you can't make it, you can't make it. There's always next summer, love.” Ekko nods in agreement and you suddenly wish you hadn't said anything. You missed them and they definitely missed you. Serenity stares at you for a while before looking back over at the two men on the screen and you try to ignore the sudden pang of guilt.

“What's your boyfriend like, Reni? Just so we can keep an eye out for him.” Ekko muses and you're glad the subject has changed. Your roommate scoffs and rolls her eyes.

“Why would I tell you two weirdos anything?”

“We're jus’ lookin’ out for ya ‘s all.”

“Sure…”, Serenity says dryly, neither you nor her convinced in the slightest. Even as they look at you both with wide innocent eyes. Sharing a look with her, you tilt your head and silently urge her to share something about her long distance lover to satiate their curiosity, amusement shining in your eyes. Rolling her eyes, she lets out an exasperated groan.

“Only thing I'm telling you guys is that he's a sweetheart, and he plays the drums and bass.” For some odd reason, that gets them even more intrigued, Ekko waving his hand to signal her to continue.

“Is he in a band? How long has he been playing?”

“Details, nanny, details.”

“Fuck you, this is why I ain't saying shit.” Flicking both of the men off for the rather stupid nickname, Serenity gets up and walks towards the kitchen and you stifle the giggle that threatens to escape you. The two look at you expectantly as she disappears from their view, waiting for you to reveal what your friend's boyfriend is actually like. Only for you to shake your head and shrug your shoulders to their disappointment.

“The only other thing I know is he's good with engineering, but that's it. She's told me nothing with this one because she really wants me to meet him first.” Ekko's booing at your words makes you laugh. It wasn't like you were lying. Your friend, although an open book, has been particular about this relationship. More so than past one's and she wanted you to meet him in person first, having stated that it would make the first impression better. You didn't really understand it, but as long as the guy wasn't an asshole, you were happy that she was happy.

“What about you, trouble? You met anyone yet…?”

“As if”, you scoff and you think you're imagining the relief that floods your friends’ faces. “I tried to talk with someone on campus a few months ago, but they ghosted me after a few weeks after talking.”

“Fuck ‘em”, Hobie chimes, clicking his tongue and scrunching up his nose. “They missed out on a good thing. You deserve better.”

“You're too good for someone like that anyways”, Ekko huffs and it makes you smile at how readily they are willing to come to your defense.

“You two are more worked up about it than I was. It's okay. They weren't for me and that's that. You guys are sweet, though, thank you.” Fiddling with the pen sitting on top of your neatly stacked essay, you gift the two punks a sheepish smile. “What about you two…? Anybody catch either of your eyes?”

“No one but you, me duck”, Hobie coos at you, earning him a smack to his arm by Ekko. You roll your eyes, trying hard not to dwell on just why your heartbeat skipped a little at his words.

“He's dumb, ignore him”, Ekko sighs, sucking his teeth and hazel brown eyes shooting a cheeky looking Hobie a glare. “Neither of us are dating anyone, bug. Haven't found the right person yet.”

“Or, we're jus’ waitin’ for ‘em to show up”, Hobie mutters and the confirmation of them being single weirdly enough brings a sense of relief that you weren't aware you needed. Ignoring whatever weird feelings that shouldn't have been there in your heart in the first place, you lean back until your back hits the edge of the couch. Pulling your laptop into your lap, the three of you continue chatting for nearly an hour, laughing and reminiscing. Making promises that you truly do intend to keep. When you finally end your call with them, you're left feeling warm and giddy inside with a smile on your lips that doesn't seem to fade. Placing your now finished essay away thanks to the help of your friends, you close your laptop and stand up from your seat on the floor. Joints popping as you stretch, the sudden shocking sensation of frigid cold presses against your cheek, making you gasp and stagger back. Serenity grins at you as she waves the ice cold bottle of water she more than likely pressed against you around. Scowling, you snatch it from her and she scoffs.

“Uh, excuse you? Rude.” Placing her bottle of orange juice on the coffee table, she fixes her long braids into a bun atop her head and gazes at you knowingly. “Thought you would've been in a better mood after talking with your boyfriends.”

“Not my boyfriends", you huff, twisting off the cap to your water. “I don't know why you insist on calling them that. We're just friends.”

“Yeah, okay, sure”, she snorts as she plops back down on the couch. “‘Just friends.’ I'm friends with you and I don't look at you that way.” Rolling your eyes, you let out a reluctant groan .

“Here you go–”

“No, but if you actually paid attention”, your loving roommate interrupts, her voice growing in volume as she pulls you down by the hem of your shirt to sit beside her. “They're into you. Like really into you. Like, ‘parting is such sweet sorrow’ type into you.”

“The Shakespeare?!”

“You're not listening”, Serenity groans as growing frustration mares her face. It's not like you haven't heard all this before. Even your mother had spoken of your childhood friends holding affection for you before, though you never believed them. And, while it's true that you had thought of them in that way once, you'd never soil the good friendship you had with both men since primary school. Besides, the chances of both Hobie and Ekko liking you at the same time we're slim to none. No, you'd remain a good friend for them, no matter what.

“They look at you the way my teddy bear looks at me and I've told you about how he looks at me.” Reni says dreamily, swooning over her long distance boyfriend yet again. Groaning, you flop down to lay across her lap, hitting her thigh lightly in an attempt to stop her rant before it can truly begin.

“I get it, you love your man. Good on you… But I swear, the only reason you keep saying they like me is because you ship us.” Snorting, your roommate looks down at you in a way that screams ‘duh’.

“You guys are my entertainment. My kdrama but it's the UK edition.” Astounded laughter leaving your lips, you gaze up at her with wide eyes and Reni pinches your nose. “Also, what was up with you lying to them earlier? Why didn't you tell them you're moving back down there?”

“I wanted to surprise them”, you mumble nasally, moving your head so that she frees your nose. “They'll be really happy that I'm not just visiting.”

“They could've been real happy now. You should've told them you'd be on the same flight as me.” Smiling, you just sigh, adamant on your moving staying a surprise. With a lot of paperwork and a ton of hours waiting on emails, you'd finally gotten your papers for college transferred to London. Even though your credits didn't necessarily transfer over, all you needed was two more years of schooling and some hands-on experience before you could become a licensed teacher. You'd already worked things over so that you had a potential job as a teacher's assistant at your old secondary school. And, as far as housing, you'd found someone in need of a roommate online. After talking and video chatting for about a month, your new roommate named Cassie sent you a copy of the key. Everything was looking bright and the knowledge that you were finally going back to the place you called home for so many years made excitement flow through you.

“Well, what's done is done, I guess. We should finish packing up, at least. C'mon”, Reni groans, pushing at your head until you sit up. Standing up from the sofa, she holds her hand out for you to grab. “The sooner we start, the sooner we'll finish.

**********

“Remind me again why you two are riding with me?” Ned yells over the wind whipping through the air, the windows of his truck rolled down. The air had finally grown warmer, summer arriving and the sun peeking through the clouds. Eyeing the two passengers in his backseat through the rearview mirror, his eyes peek over the top of his sunglasses that were slipping down the bridge of his nose.

"We ain't even 'ere, mate", Hobie yells back, wicks swaying and lips curled in a playful smile. The wind ruffles his clothes as he sits back in his seat, arm hanging out the window. Russet brown eyes twinkling with mirth at his bandmate's growing annoyance.

"We ain't allowed to hang out with you, Ned?" Ekko pipes up, eyebrow raised and a ghost of a smile threatening his face as he plays along with antagonizing their friend. White twists whipping about, Hobie puts them up in a bun for him. Sucking his teeth, Ned narrows his eyes at the two men briefly before glancing back at the road ahead.

"You both are full of shit. Today's the day I pick up my girlfriend, you wankers just wanna see what she looks like." Hobie lets out a dramatic gasp, turning to look at the man beside him. Ekko turns as well, feigning surprise.

"She's comin' down 'ere today? Ya knew bout that, 'Ko?"

"No way! It's that time already?" Ekko questions with his mouth open and eyebrows raised up. Ned has the strongest urge to crash the car. Chuckling, the two punks gaze back at their frustrated friend.

"Just messing with you, man. Bee and I didn't wanna wait to meet her, is all.”

"Yeah, "fore you hog her all to y'self and we don't hear from you for a few days." Hobie chuckles and Ned narrows his eyes in slight confusion.

"Why wouldn't you hear from me?" His two passengers give him stern looks, staring at him hard.

"Ned..."

"What?"

"Bruv..."

"What?" It takes a few more seconds before he puts two and two together, his face growing warmer by the minute despite the breeze filtering through the open window. "Oh, fuck off you absolute wankers."

Grumbling as the two men laugh, Ned rolls his eyes. Hobie leans forward and claps his shoulder.

"Ya tellin' me you aren't gonna?"

"What me and my bird do don't concern you two. I don't ask about you two shits."

"Oh, mate, if you wanted to know, just ask–" Ekko slapping his stomach with the back of his hand stops him, a small "oof" leaving the punk's lips. Scrunching up his nose, the white haired man gives his lover a stern look, only for it to melt when he leans forward and pecks his forehead, cheeky smile on his face all the while. Shaking his head, he hates how easily Hobie can get to him. Ned rolls his eyes at the pair and focuses back on the road, nearing the airport.

"You two are ridiculous. I don't get why you both couldn't have waited to meet her with the rest of..." Words slowly trailing off, Hobie turns to peer at his friend curiously. Pushing at the back of his bassist's seat, he tilts his head.

"Oi. Everythin' alright, Ned?" Rolling up the back windows, Ekko reaches his arm to the front of the car to roll the front ones up, just so they can both hear the man better. Or, at least, so Ekko can.

"No fuckin' way..." Ned breathes out softly and Hobie climbs up to the passenger seat, legs sprawling over the dashboard before he fixes himself up in the seat better. Glancing over at his friend, he watches the way Ned's wide eyes move between looking at the road and his right hand that grips the steering wheel tightly. Concern colors the punk's gaze and he places a hand on the man's shoulder, worried about his bandmate that's starting to seemingly break out in a nervous sweat.

“Ned...?” Ekko asks softly and their shared friend finally stammers out a sentence as they stop at a red light.

"I - I feel it..." He utters, his hands trembling on the steering wheel and Hobie imagines that even without his enhanced hearing, he'd still be able to hear the frantic beating of his friend's heart. "The string - my string. I-It's moving..."

Sucking in a breath, they know exactly what that means. Ned's soulmate was nearby. Hell, they were more than likely someone at the airport, given the look of growing panic on his face the moment the light turned green again and they started moving. It was a rare thing to ever be able to meet your soulmate, most people living their lives without doing so. Both Hobie and Ekko weren't really ones to favor the idea of being matched with someone according to fate. They were lucky enough to be friends and develop feelings for each other before they'd been able to see their strings. For some, it happened when they were already in loving relationships with someone else. Fate shouldn't have a say in who someone was allowed to love. They'd always believed that and that wasn't going to change now.

"So what if you feel it", Ekko mutters after a moment of silence, hazel brown eyes sharp as he locks eyes with Ned in the mirror. "Does this mean your feelings for your girl don't matter then? You giving up on you two before it can really go anywhere?"

"No way... I've waited two whole years for her, ain't nothing changing how I feel", he says with conviction. But as the airport comes into view, his voice trembles just a bit. "B-But, the other person attached to me..."

"Who says you have to fall in love wit’ your soulmate, hm", Hobie pipes up, pointing a finger at an open parking space. "If the one attached to you doesn't respect that you've already got someone you care for, they got no business bein' in your life. Fuck all that fate and destiny, shite. You choose who you choose."

Ned doesn't say anything to that, slowly parking the car and killing the engine. He plucks his sunglasses off of his face and pinches the bridge of his nose, letting out a deep sigh. Sharing a worried glance, both punks can feel the concern for their shared friend flowing between them. Something that came with being tied together, funnily enough. It takes several long minutes before Ned even shifts again and the pair fears that he won't heed the message that they were trying to tell him. That he'll actually abide by that fate nonsense. But when Ned opens his eyes again, determination swirls in them and Hobie feels a little dumb for ever doubting his bandmate.

"You're right. Fuck bloody fate", Ned huffs as he pushes open the car door, the pair right behind him. "I wanna meet my girl."

The three of them stride into the bustling building, weaving through the sea of people boarding and unboarding planes. Ekko notes how the bassist glances down, repeatedly looking between his phone and his right hand. Despite the way that nervousness is practically ebbing off of him in waves, he still keeps up that determined stride. It doesn't take long before they reach the area for those getting off the plane, moving to stand beside those who wait for the passengers. Minutes pass as they all search the incoming crowd of people, Ned typing on his phone. Hobie drapes an arm over his bandmate's shoulders and sighs.

"Y'know, it'd be a lot easier if you showed us a pic of what she looks like", he mutters slyly, peering down at his friend from the corner of his eye, sucking his teeth when he sees that he's being paid no mind. It's then that he feels a sudden shift in the air, like something prickling at his flesh. Eyebrows furrowing and the hairs on the back of his neck standing on end, Hobie senses the sudden taut tug of his lone second string before he feels it. He looks around, russet brown eyes searching the packed building, trying to find the only other person he could be attached to. His arm slipping from off of Ned's shoulders makes his attention snap back to his friend. Ned lets out a breath and clutches his phone tighter in his grip, grey eyes frantically searching about.

"She's here... So is my soulmate..." He breathes out softly and Ekko walks over to him, placing a steady hand on the anxious man's back.

"You got this, man. We're right behind you." Nodding his head in thanks for his friends' support, Ned doesn't take his eyes off of the incoming flux of people. Scanning the crowd of people, Hobie and Ekko spot an oddly familiar face, the woman's green and black box braids pulled into a bun atop her head. Brown eyes wide with what looks like fear, she slips past the other unboarding passengers, fervently looking about.

"We bloody called it, 'Ko", Hobie chuckles, watching how Ned's eyes lock onto the nervous woman. Ekko smiles and shakes his head as they both walk behind their friend, the three of them making their way to her. Grey eyes drifting from his right hand to the woman frantically searching, Ned seemingly can't help the wobbling smile that graces his lips. With every step closer, his smile grows bigger and the two punks know he's found his soulmate.

"...Reni, love..." Ned breathes and the anxious woman snaps her head up from where she'd been staring at her trembling left hand. She looks at the drummer with wide eyes full of utter shock and disbelief, brown eyes darting down to look at her hand, then Ned, then back again.

"F-For real...?" Serenity mutters, stepping closer as she gazes up at him with tears shining in her eyes. "This ain't a joke or anything...? We're really attached to each other...?"

Tenderly taking her hand in his, the chuckle that leaves his lips is one of pure elation and utter relief as the two gaze down at their hands.

"Turns out, I really was waiting for you. All my life, it seems." Hobie and Ekko watch the scene unfold before them with a growing fondness, the two finding each other's hand and intertwining their fingers together. Thoughts drifting to you as they watch their friends finally get their happy ending, the two wonder if they'll ever get to see you have yours. Or if they'd ever be a part of it. Letting the couple finish up their moment, Hobie soon walks over to them, Ekko right behind him. Proud smirks on both of their faces, they note how Serenity's eyes light up at the sight of them behind Ned.

"Small world after all, hm?", Ekko chirps up and Reni looks at them both in confusion. "How've you been, Reni?"

"What are you two nerds doing here?" Ned blinks before jutting his thumb back at the men behind him, astounded that his girl knows his friends.

"Jus' confimin' stuff. We had a feelin' we knew your bloke and we do." The taller man hums, mirth shining in his russet brown eyes. Serenity just sighs and shakes her head.

"Of course you know Neddy."

"You lot know each other," Ned questions, eyebrows furrowed as he's still on the fact that they all know each other.

"Mutual friend. The one we told you about, from primary school. But, Neddy?" The white haired man chortles and the man between them all grows slightly red in the face. A sweet smile on her lips, Serenity takes hold of Ned's arm, head falling onto his shoulder.

"That's right! He's my Neddy bear", she swoons, giggling at the embarrassed sound that leaves the man beside her and Hobie presses his lips together, the amusement on his face clear as day.

"Know what", Ekko muses before sweeping his gaze over at the punk beside him. "Hell yeah. It's better than Kokonut." Hobie lets out an offended gasp, a hand pressed against his chest.

"Oi! It was made wit' love!" The shorter man laughs at that and Hobie's eyes soften at the sight, the only other person besides you that makes his chest warm. A gasp makes the two look over and Serenity stares at them with wide, knowing eyes. She points a finger at them, mouth open in a shocked grin. The two punks suddenly feel exposed. For what, they weren't sure.

"You two are together", she states, more so like a fact than a question. "You two are together... and you didn't tell my pookie?"

Sucking in a breath, the taller man winces and the punk beside him rubs a hand on the back of his neck almost guiltily. It wasn't that they didn't want to tell you. They just were waiting until you finally made your way back to England. Once you came back, they'd promised each other that they'd tell you everything from the start of their relationship to their never waving feelings about you. For you. About how it started in grade eight as a small budding thing, something the two men had originally believed to be just childish admiration. Just for it to blossom into something more once they reached the age of fourteen. Ekko had been the first to fall, first to struggle with the yearning he'd had for both of his childhood friends. It wasn't until the day you'd officially moved – his chest heaving and nose still stuffy from the crying you all had done before they'd chased after your mom's car – that he'd sobbed right beside Hobie. Telling him everything as the punk tried to desperately console him. Hobie was too scared to tell him anything back then, too worried about putting either of you in danger now that he had the abilities that he did, even if you were now several hundreds of miles away. So, he'd kept silent, just awkwardly hugging one of his best friends in the entire world close as he spilled his heart out to him.

It had been a bit awkward between them after that day, with the taller of the two fumbling with his ever present longing for something more between you three and the staggering truth that the life he was just barely starting to lead was one of constant risks. Ekko had built up a wall between them, a small one but it was nevertheless there. Meeting Ned had rekindled their bond somewhat, but Hobie knew he'd messed up and fifteen year old him had no idea how to fix it. No matter how much he wanted to.

That's the way it stayed for years until the night before they graduated, Hobie sneaking into Ekko's bedroom through the window. Beaten and bloodied from his fight with the Lizard, he'd had an epiphany while listening and watching his best friend nag and fret, carefully stitching him up while still shirtless from sleep. He couldn't go on like that anymore, not when one of his most beloved people was so careful in caring for him, not when every fiber of his being was screaming at him to let himself love and be loved. And that's exactly what he'd told Ekko before slotting his lips firmly against his. It took a lot of talking after that, a lot of figuring out exactly what they wanted, more so when they found out they both had two strings instead of one and that they were attached to each other. And despite their thoughts on the matter of soulmates in general, the two were practically brimming with joy when they saw their string glow between them. Well, at least Hobie was because he was surprisingly the late bloomer of the group, unable to see his string until those few days spent tracking the Lizard's whereabouts. The only other want they had after talking about it all was to be with you, and the years following just amplified that.

"We're gonna tell trouble, promise", Ekko pipes up after the silent judgement coming from Serenity in staggering waves. "We just want to say it all in person. Bug deserves that much."

Hobie nods in agreement and the woman eyes them for a bit longer before letting out a dramatic sigh. Her glare does little to intimidate them when she's smiling so hard that her teeth are showing.

"Fine! You guys better fess up about everything, then. And I mean everything." They don't get a chance to ask just exactly what she meant by that before she turns to face Ned, her knowing grin replaced with a softer, sweeter one.

"Let's get going, Neddy. We still have to stop by the café before we go to yours, remember?" Ned snaps his fingers, the thought that was forgotten because of his stressing over his string suddenly dawning on him.

"That's right! Still can't believe you're related to Mama Kay..." Ned sighs as the couple walk towards the exit with linked arms and Hobie and Ekko share an incredulous look before scrambling after the two lovebirds.

"Related to who?!"

"Oi! Reni...!"

The two men are so caught up in trying to figure out if Serenity is truly taking over their most beloved café, they don't even feel how lax the second string has become on their pinkies.

**********

Phone held tightly within your grip and thumb hovering over the text message on your screen, you try to quell the feeling of anxiousness bubbling up inside of you. Try to ignore the little voice in your head that's screaming at you, yelling that you'd regret the decision of moving in with this woman in the future. Looking at the sight of the flat before you, you're starting to think it's right. She'd texted you when you landed, saying she was off to sleep over a friend's house and that you could just go in and show yourself around without her. Claimed that it was just a little messy from the gathering she'd hosted the night before. Messy was a severe understatement. When you'd first opened the door, the scent of musk and liquor was the first to hit your nose. It only got worse when you stepped inside completely. Empty cans and beer bottles and sticky red plastic cups were strewn about the place, littering the carpet and stained brown sofas. The coffee table was piled up with cups full of various liquids, opened boxes of pizzas and residue of spilled substances. Pieces of shining confetti draped every inch of the scene the deeper you walked into the flat, careful not to crush the broken shards of glass and chips on the floor. To your horror, the kitchen was even worse. Sink piled high with dishes, trash can overflowing with buzzing flies hovering near it, and food thrown carelessly about the countertops.

Blinking at the sight, you head towards the bedrooms and fear for the worst, only to let out a breath you didn't know you were holding once you see that the one most likely meant for you is thankfully untouched, although a little cluttered with little things. At least one thing wasn't trashed. You honestly just want to crash in bed and say fuck it because your flight was long and you were tired but after seeing how terrible everything looks, you drag yourself towards where the bathroom most likely is. Because, surely that was still safe. It just had to be. Opening that door, you're so disgusted that you feel itchy. You couldn't leave, either. With not enough money for a hotel room nor any friends nearby in this particular neighborhood as far as you knew, you only had two choices. Sleep and wait for Cassie to come back so that the flat could be cleaned by the both of you or do it yourself. Knowing you had to be there for your first day as a teacher's assistant tomorrow as well as go job hunting for a second job, you really only had one option with your limited availability.

"Let's get this over with", you groan, shedding your jacket and placing your suitcase next to the bed. It takes you hours to clean the entire flat from top to bottom minus your absent roommate's room. You'd been lucky to at least find some cleaning supplies in the hallway closet. By the time you finished scrubbing the last bit of grime off of the bathroom sink, the whole place smelled like bleach and pine sol, practically sparkling like it was brand new again. Huffing, you don't bother putting the cleaning supplies away, dragging your now aching body towards the bedroom and flopping down on the mattress with a groan. Phone suddenly buzzing in your pocket, you let out a louder groan, fingers roughly fishing it out of your jeans.

"Hello..." You greet lowly, not even bothering to check the caller ID as you press the device to your ear.

"Well, you sound like fucking rainbows, don't you", the voice on the other end, Serenity, hums with evident amusement coloring her tone.

"I'm going through a crisis, shut up."

"Why? Have you met your roommate yet?" Sitting up, you have to bite your lip to muffle the gasp that wants to escape you when you feel your joints popping. Just adding to the urge to throttle Cassie.

"No. She texted me earlier to let myself in and that the flat was just a little messy. Reni, I have been cleaning since one thirty." You spit through gritted teeth and your friend lets out an incredulous sound as you further explain just how filthy everything was.

"Oh hell no. It's almost nine o'clock, the fuck?! Why didn't you call me when you saw that shit? Better yet, why didn't you call Hobie and Ekko?" You grow silent at her words, suddenly realizing that maybe you really hadn't needed to do all that work just to be able to sleep comfortably.

"Uh..."

"'Uh'", she mocks before sucking her teeth. "Your ass forgot those options? And don't say some bullshit like you 'didn't wanna impose' or some shit." You clamp your mouth shut, those exact words dying on your tongue. She knew you better than you thought she did. It's like you could feel the eyeroll through the phone and you hear shuffling on the other end.

"I fucking knew it. Give me the damn address."

"You cuss a lot when you're angry."

"Don't piss me off right now. The address."

"It's fine", you sigh, holding the phone between your shoulder and your ear as you go to place your suitcase on the bed. "I already took care of it, anyways. I'll just have to have a talk with Cassie when she gets here."

"That's not the point", Serenity huffs and you roll your eyes, mentally preparing yourself for the nagging she was going to do about your choices. "If this is how she presents herself and her home to someone she plans on living with, it'll only get worse from here."

"I'll talk to her. Until I get my money up, I need a roommate. Living with you and your man is out of the question. Not when you two are just barely starting your life together." She grows silent then, as if really taking your words to heart. Both of you were right, with you needing to leave before your Cassie situation got worse and with Serenity getting to know her boyfriend on a more intimate level now that they were no longer long distance.

"Besides", you pipe up as you lay out your outfit for tomorrow, "this might've just been a one time thing. Cassie was really sweet when I talked with her a few months ago. I'm sure we can work something out so that this doesn't happen again."

"Sure", your friend drawls, sounding as unconvinced as you felt, no matter how much you try to get yourself hopeful. "Don't forget to let Bert and Ernie know that you're finally down here, though. Before you get too busy."

"I will. Promise" The two of you chat for a few minutes more and you slowly feel like a weight is lifted off of your shoulders, hand idly drifting to touch your necklace. Despite being stressed about your potential living situation, you at least were a little more hopeful for the future then earlier.

“Shit, Shit, shit!” That's all you can say as you frantically haul yourself off of the bus, legs pushing you towards the looming high school building ahead of you. It was bad enough that you'd woken up late, your alarm having a mind of its own and deciding not to go off. Then, you managed to spill toothpaste on your first shirt and coffee on the second. As if that weren't the worst of it, Cassie had absolutely no food in her cabinets, pantry, or refrigerator. To put the cherry on top of the worst start to your day, you'd missed your bus. It's a good thing the driver felt pity for you when he'd seen you chasing after it when it zoomed past you just as you reached the bench, stopping just long enough for you to hop on and pay. At least the universe had some pity on you. Well, that's what you thought before seeing the vehicle stop about a mile away from the brick building.

That's how you found yourself currently running towards the school, slipping through a crowd of people and bumping into someone with a stack of papers. Parchment shoots up into the air and flutters towards the pavement. The man curses you as you shout back apologies, resuming your sprint. Ten minutes left before you'd officially be late for your first day, you will yourself to go harder, for your feet to carry you faster. By the time you finally get to the doors, sweat clings to you like a second skin, chest heaving as you take in lungfulls of air and try to regulate your breathing. Glancing down at your wristwatch, you feel proud of yourself for having three minutes left to spare. You quickly wipe off the sweat on your face and straighten out your attire to the best of your abilities to appear a bit more put together than you felt internally. And as you pull open the double doors to your old school, a rush of sudden nostalgia comes over you. Memories of your years spent walking the halls come to mind with every step you take, your sneakers squeaking against the linoleum floors. Hardly anything has changed about the place with the same old red lockers, the same old trophy case right next to the front desk. There's still a chip in the wood of the desk, visible from where you stand in front of the woman typing something on the computer. Her red, manicured fingernails fly over the keys, lips pulled in a frown as she narrows her grey eyes behind the screen. You almost hate to interrupt when she looks so focused on whatever it is that she's working on.

"Um... Excuse me..." The furious typing stops and her eyes shoot up to look at you. Black curls framing her face, the woman looks at you questioningly. You give her a nervous smile. "I'm the teacher's assistant that was supposed to come in today."

"Okay. Straight towards the faculty office on the right down the hall. First door you see." She smiles at you warmly, something that makes your day a little brighter. Here's hoping everyone was this nice, especially whatever teacher you were going to be assigned to work with. Walking down the hall and mumbling affirmations under your breath, it doesn't take you long to reach the office door. You don't have to put your ear to the polished wood to hear the yelling from inside, making you hesitant to open it.

"I've never needed an assistant in all my forty years of teaching here! I don't need one now!" That voice sounded painfully familiar. It made a nervous sweat break out on the back of your neck.

"You have no say in the matter. This was decided by the board and we both know you need the help more than you think." The voices grow louder, closer, and you stumble back from the door just as it slams open.

"Both you and that assistant can rot in hell, Parker!" The older woman before you yells back, her head turning to face you and you swear under your breath. Despite the years making her shorter and the wrinkles more pronounced than they'd been before, you'd recognize that blonde coiffed hair anywhere. She'd kept the same style during all of the years you'd attended, golden blonde hair now almost platinum, streaks of white throughout every strand. The same terrible caked on make-up all over her slightly withered face, making her complexion more orange than the normal skintone. Scowl painted on her thin, cherry color stained lips, her icy green eyes scan you from head to toe before she lets out a snarky laugh.

"Speak of the devil...! This is my so-called assistant, May?" Mrs. Crumb spits as she turns her body to the side, just as a taller woman a tad bit younger than her walks up behind her. Exasperation coloring her gaze as she looks at you, the auburn haired woman gives you an apologetic smile and motions for you to come inside the office fully. You can feel Mrs. Crumb's glare on you as you slip past her, praying that she doesn't remember you nor your two best friends.

"Welcome, dear. You're here for your first day, right?" The woman, May, asks as she takes your hand in greeting. "My name is May Parker. I'm the principal. And this is Mrs. Crumb, the teacher you'll be assisting."

As polite as she was being, the principal ushers both you and the glowering woman out of the door. She's quick in her rundown of the job and the school as she walks you both to the teacher's classroom, so quick that you can hardly get a word in. Once you all finally arrive, she shakes your hand once more and rushes back down the hall. All too eager to get away from the spiteful old woman who was leering at your back. You don't blame her. Mrs. Crumb has always been a bitter old hag. Taking a deep breath, you turn to face the teacher with the most charming smile you could muster, in hopes that she won't make this very much needed job a living hell for you.

"So! You're Mrs. Crumb, right? My name is-”

"I know who you are", she interrupts you with a scoff, green eyes narrowed to slits. Folding her arms across her chest, she slowly circles you, like a predator sizing up prey. It makes anxiousness flutter around in your stomach and you swallow the lump in your throat, fearing that she does remember you after all as her beige heels click along the linoleum floors. The sound of your name leaving her thin lips has you fighting back a wince.

“Thought you'd be in jail by now with those little delinquent friends of yours. You three were nothing but trouble making pests!” Well, there goes your hopes of being forgotten. Rubbing the back of your neck, you try to avoid her gaze. Mrs. Crumb seriously has a staring problem. Or just multiple problems.

“We weren't that terrible, ma'am.”

“Your friend threw toilet paper all over my house and car!” She snaps and you wince at the memory. “He was always late, always fighting, and always questioning authority. He should've been rotting in juvie!”

The older woman drones on and on about how reckless and irresponsible you three were, about how she's surprised you even amounted to anything when you hung around no good brats like the two men you held dear. For several painfully long minutes, you stood and listened to the exhausting nonsense she kept spouting, to the insults she kept hurling towards you about your time in school. You could feel the way a muscle in your jaw began to tick, how your teeth grinded together in an effort to keep silent. After another minute passes and it's apparent that Mrs. Crumb has no intention of biting her tongue, you let out a loud exasperated groan.

“You're way too old to be hating on things people did when they were children, like damn. Get a fucking life already”, you snap before you can stop yourself, irritated that she kept ranting. When she shoots you an incredulous look, you'd wished you kept your mouth shut, for the sheer venom in her eyes was enough to know you were now damned. Stepping close enough that you can smell the coffee on her breath, Mrs. Crumb lowers her voice to a dangerous whisper, cruel smirk on her lips.

“This is going to be a very very long school year for you.” And just like that, your new job was officially going to be utter shit.

Eyes watering from the sudden cold wind that whips at your face and clothes, a shiver runs down your spine and you stifle a sneeze. It's mid October and you feel like shit. Between the job at the school, your remaining studies, and the newly acquired position as a server at the beloved Last Drop, you've had barely any time to just be still. Unless you were sleeping, of course, which even then, you didn't do a lot of. You couldn't even remember when you last spoke with your friends, too busy working and taking care of your shared flat. Cassie had proven to be the worst type of roommate imaginable, what you'd feared on your first day back in London.

She was beyond loud, beyond messy, and had little to no respect for your things. Like this morning, when you walked into the kitchen to find it wrecked, her and her hangover having friends giggling as they ate from the containers containing your prepped food for the week. When you'd confronted her about the matter, she'd just patted your shoulder and promised to replace everything while her buddies looked at you like you were annoying. That was another strike on the rather long list of grievances you had with her. You think the first one was when she finally came back home after being gone for almost an entire week after your arrival, whistling loudly as she skipped around the place that you shouldn't have had to clean.

"Cheers, mate! You're the absolute best for this", is what she'd said as she pulled you into a bear hug. And, you probably wouldn't have been as upset as you got if she'd just left it at that. But, the next day after that, right after you two came to an agreement about the cleanliness of the flat, she went and threw a party. Not a small one either. You'd came home to the walls practically vibrating from how loud the music was, bodies packed tight in the flat and the smell of liquor sickeningly strong. It had taken you nearly an hour to track Cassie down and she just kept telling you that you were making a big deal out of nothing when you'd complained about the mess. A part of you felt like you shouldn't have a say in what happens in your home because it wasn't yours at first. But that part of you was dying the longer she kept disregarding the rules you both set.

Looking up at the darkening sky, you let out a ragged sigh, phone loose in your hand as you stand in the middle of the fairly busy side walk. You'd just gotten off work at the school and were now headed toward the pub for your shift. Tired eyes blinking up at the clouds, you lift your phone up to your face and your mood sours even more at seeing the missed calls from Serenity and your two dorks. You haven't even gotten the chance to visit them, let alone call them to tell Hobie and Ekko that you were back in the first place. People walk around you as you stare hard at the caller IDs, something you can't quite place forming in the pit of your stomach. Serenity was right, you should've just told them in advance instead of trying to surprise them. Perhaps then you wouldn't feel as out of place as you did right now. Fingers of your free hand reaching up to trace the edges of the pick around your neck, you let out a long sigh. Maybe you should just call them, if only to hear their voices again after months of doing without. Your thumb hovers over Hobie's name when you suddenly feel it.

That small tugging sensation, a little incessant thing that's due to one of your strings on your pinkies. Ever since your plane landed in England, you've felt them move where they'd been taut before. Heart lurching in your throat, your eyes swarm the crowd of people walking past you, straining to find the source of the pull almost instinctively. Meeting one of your soulmates now would just add more to the stress piling up on you, especially since you were hoping to be tied together with a very specific pair of people. How would you be able to look whoever those people were in the eye when your heart has always belonged to the two you long for most? Two people that you definitely shouldn't have any feelings for because they wouldn't have them for you. That's what you kept telling yourself to avoid any unnecessary heartache. A shout brings you out of your anxiety induced stupor and you yelp as hands suddenly push you out of the way.

"It's that Spider-Punk guy!"

"Spider-Man?!"

"Spider-Punk, where?!"

The shouts from the people around you echo in your ears, bodies pushing and shoving yours as you frantically try to escape the crowd you've been forced into. An arm shoots up in front of your face, almost hitting you and you look towards where the person was pointing to with growing frustration. You barely get a glimpse of something in red zipping over a building before you feel your phone slip from your fingers, panic rising when you're unable to duck down after it. The sound of something cracking makes you wince and the people around you slowly disperse once the sighting of the vigilante is over. Eyes searching the pavement, you see that your phone has somehow ended up in the street during the chaos, most likely kicked from the crowd leaving. And, as if the universe truly hates you and thinks your existence is nothing short of a comedy, a car comes zooming down the street, tires pummeling your poor method of communication to bits. Tiny sparks fizzle from the remains before dying out, just like your hope for the future of your wallet.

Picking your jaw up from when it dropped open at the murder of your phone, you blindly reach out to a man that's just about to walk past you.

"Excuse me", you mumble and he turns to you with a raised eyebrow. "Could I borrow your phone for a few minutes? Please...?"

"Uh, no? Where's your own phone at?" Pointing to the street, the man's blue eyes widened at the sight. "Damn... Shit luck you're havin', mate. Here." Fishing his device out of his pocket, he hands it to you and you try not to cry as you look up the pub's number. You were going to be late for work, it seems.

**********

"Still not answerin'...?" Hobie mumbles softly, watching as Ekko grips his cell phone tightly in his hand, his own fingers fiddling absentmindedly with the scraps of metal surrounding them on the work bench. Letting his phone clatter onto the wood, the white baired man huffs through his nose, frustration evident in the furrowing of his brows while he picks up his screwdriver once more. Hands taking the webshooter in his palm apart piece by piece.

"No", Ekko mutters, voice clipped with concern and the feeling echoes through the connection he has with the punk sitting beside him. "I can't get through and Serenity says she can't either. We've never not been in contact with bug this long before..."

"I know, 'Ko." Hobie's eyes stray to the way his love was snipping at a wire.

"And it's not like we can just pick up and leave for LA–"

"'Ko, you're gonna hurt y'self..."

"What if something happened? What if bug got hurt-"

"Ekko." Hissing, the white haired punk recoils his hand, accidentally nicking his pointer finger during his distracted rambling. A bead of crimson blossoms from the cut, glinting lightly under the lamp sitting on the shelf of the bench. Taking his hand in his own, Hobie sighs and reaches over to grab a bandage and alcohol wipe from the desk beside them. Blood wells up from the cut as he cleans and dresses it, russet brown eyes peering back up at Ekko's hazel brown ones through long lashes.

His own concern for you and your lack of contact swirls in his gaze as he shares his worry with the only other person who feels the same way about you as he does.

"...'M worried too, 'Ko. But if somethin' really was wrong, 'm sure lovie's mum would be the first one to call us. Let's give it a little more time, yeah?"

Bringing his hand up to his lips, Ekko sighs as Hobie's piercing brushes against his knuckles. He was right, of course, Worrying so much would only make them antsier and they had to trust that their long distance friend who meant the absolute world to them was still doing okay.

"Right... You're right. Let's finish fixing up your shooters so I can stop thinking about it." Brushing his hand under the other's chin affectionately, the white haired punk turns back around in his seat to resume his work on the fried heap of metal. Clicking his tongue, he shakes his head, fingers picking gingerly at the scrap again. "That electric guy really did a number on this, didn't he?"

"Yup", Hobie groans, throwing a clunkier version of his shooter on the bench, "Been stuck usin' my prototype the past few days. It works fine sometimes, but it jammed up on me at the worst moment today. Almost fell flat on my arse."

"If this was what you were using before, it's no wonder. The handiwork is mediocre at best- is this copper...?" Ekko gawks at the hunk of metal in disbelief, a teasing grin on his lips that has the man beside him huffing and puffing out his chest.

"'S not that terrible. I was fifften, piss off." The shorter of the two lets out a laugh at the punk's pout and pats him on the back reassuringly.

"I'm messing with you, Bee. I've just never seen anyone put copper in this particular spot before." He points to a busted up looking chip with his screwdriver.

"Pefectly good place to put it, come off it. 'Sides, that won't the only reason I almost ate pavement today..." Ekko hums at his words, hands taking the tool his lover was holding out for him. When he notices that the only sounds echoing in the room are him tinkering with scrap metal, Hobie not following up on his story of his day, the white haired punk pauses in his work. Peering at the punk out of the corner of his eye, he lifts a brow in question at the unreadable expression on the man's face.

"Bee...?" Hobie doesn't answer him, russet brown eyes hardening with an inner turmoil that Ekko isn't privy to until a sudden rush of emotions bleed into their concretion. Anxiety, trepidation, and the unshakeable resolve that's entirely Hobie. Sitting up straighter on his wooden stool, Ekko takes his lover's hands in his own, the red string on their pinkies glowing softly between them. Hazel brown eyes glimmering with warmth and love, his voice is a concerned quiet murmur. "Hobie, what is it? Tell me what's wrong."

Hobie shakes his head and lets out a breath, thumb tenderly running along the back of the other man's hand, the one with the string that isn't attached to him. It's been nagging at him for months now and if he could keep what happened to himself, he would. But that wouldn't be fair to Ekko, especially since this was the second time it's happened. The man sitting in front of him waits patiently and Hobie lets out another breath, heart beating a mile a minute.

"I... I felt it, 'Ko", he breathes out, russet brown eyes fluttering down to gaze at the way his hands clasp at the other's. Ekko furrows his brows in confusion, questions swirling in his mind.

"...That's cryptic as fuck, Bee." Hobie can't help the huff of amusement that leaves him and he gives the punk's hands a squeeze. "What did you feel, hm?"

"The string," he mumbles after a moment of silence, choosing to rip the metaphorical bandaid off now rather than later. "Felt it when I was swingin' near Vander's, jus' a few blocks away from Stan's... But that was only today..."

Ekko's jaw tightens and now the trepidation doesn't just ebb from the taller punk. This was something they'd been slightly worried about. The possibility of them not being attached to the same person. It was already rare enough that they both possessed two strings instead of one. If there was even a slight chance that they were tied to two different people, that conversation was going to be real messy. Taking a deep breath, the white haired man lets it out in a shuddering sigh. Hobie looks at Ekko for a long while, taking in every expression until the uneasy feeling passing between them suddenly makes sense.

"Yours moved too." It's a statement, a knowing fact that rings true when his russet brown eyes meet nervous hazel brown ones.

"... When, Ekko...?”

"Fuck, twice", the punk breathes out, the breath he hadn't known he was holding escaping him so fast that his chest deflates. "At our old secondary school when I was picking up the lyrics for the band's new song from Riri. Saw it leading to the faculty office, but I left 'cause I was running late."

"The other time...?" Licking his lips, he looks at Hobie almost guiltily, which the punk soothes with a reassuring smile because this was nothing to feel guilty for.

"The first time was at the airport... Right before meeting Ned's girl." And Hobie has to reign in his shock at those words. Because he'd sworn Ekko hadn't felt a thing. It couldn't have been a coincidence that they both felt their second string move at the same time. "I didn't say anything at the time 'cause I wasn't sure if you'd felt it too-"

"-No I felt it that day, too", the dark haired punk interrupts, chuckling at the irony of it all. "Didn't say nothin' either, 'n case you ain't felt it."

"Well, fuck. We're both dumb", the white haired man sighs, relief making his shoulders slump. Letting go of his lover's now clammy hands, Ekko sits back until his lower back hits the edge of the workbench with a soft thump.

"Ducky would say we share the same braincells, innit." The two let out small laughs at that, little chuckles as the image of you teasing them like that comes to their minds as clear as day. They should've just confided to one another beforehand. It might've made this whole moment a little less nerve-wracking than it had to have been. Fingers toying with a string of the frayed fabric of his shirt, hazel brown eyes meet russet brown ones after a moment of silence, and Hobie's heart aches a little at the unsure look on the white haired man's face.

“...Should we tell bug about this, too? Just in case we aren't… y'know…” Hobie lets out a breath through his nose and leans forward on the workbench, arms folded atop the polished wood and head turned to face Ekko. A ghost of a smile graces his lips and he shrugs lightly.

“We could, but I think ‘s gonna be okay. No matter who we’re tied with, my lovie and my Kokonut are the only ones f’me.” The shorter punk gives a slight chuckle, body scooting closer towards his love’s and head falling onto the taller’s shoulder. White twists tickling his cheek, Hobie hums and rests his chin on the top of Ekko's head.

“You're corny… but same. Nobody for me but you guys.”

**********

“Thanks for coming in on such short notice, dear. Hope it didn't put a hold on any plans.” Waving a hand in dismissal, you give the man pouring drinks a smile. Watching as he puts the glasses and pints neatly on your tray that sits idly on the polished wood of the bar.

“It's no problem, Vander, really. I just hope your daughter feels better.”

“Ah, she'll be fine. The change in weather Just got her is all. Speaking of, you remember to bring your jacket, right?”

“Yes, I remembered, dad”, you groan and playfully roll your eyes. The tall man lets out a hearty chuckle, arms coming up to rest on the bar and knuckles drumming lightly against the wood. Since the first day you started working for Vander part time a few months ago, the burly pub owner loved to nag and fret over you like you were one of his own. With the holidays just around the corner, your overwhelming amount of work at the school was lessening. Even the spiteful Mrs. Crumb was becoming less of a grouch with winter break on the way. Not a lot of people could stay mad during the holiday season, you suppose. To make up for the shorter hours at the school, you'd been taking more shifts at the pub, which in turn made your fatherly boss more prone to his fretting. You didn't mind it all too much, finding it a little endearing that he cared.

“Hey, I just gotta make sure, is all. Don't want you getting sick on me too after working six nights in a row.” Despite the joking lilt in his tone, there was a flicker of concern in his eyes. He probably thinks you're a workaholic and he might just by right. You were only taking up all these shifts in order to save up for a new flat, your Cassie situation not improving in the slightest during the last few months. Hell, it's gotten worse ever since she started dating Josh, who may or may not be her plug. The man was always high, always smoking, and purposely instigating the arguments that would spark between you and your roommate. Which was more than a little bit these days. He was sleeping over so many nights that you were half expecting him to just outright move in. However, despite the headache that was living with Cassie, you appreciated that she always paid her portion of the bills. It was a wonder she had so much money when all she did was throw parties and go clubbing.

“I'll be fine, Vander,” you sigh as you take the tray loaded with drinks into your hands, giving him a reassuring smile before making your way towards your awaiting table. Twisting and weaving your body through crowds of people and between filled tables, you bob your head along to the soft music that plays from the speakers near the bar. The sounds of chatter and laughter mix together, the low lights almost comforting in a sease. The Last Drop was already so familiar to you, like a piece of you that you couldn't imagine your life without.

You remembered passing by it often in your teenage years of living here, remembered how you'd ogle at the sign curiously with your friends but wouldn't dare set foot inside due to you being underage and a little intimidated at the giant of an owner. Hobie and Ekko would love it here. They'd love the warmth of it all and they'd admire the man who ran it, you just know they would.

Thinking of the two men has your chest aching, guilt melting the smile on your face a bit and your longing for them a familiar weight in your heart. Months with no contact with them was making you feel awful. You'd managed to scrounge up enough money for a new phone a few days after losing your old one, resigning yourself to just eating cup ramen for a few weeks to refrain from touching your savings. Having the hindsight to back up most of your data with your email was the only bright side of it all. Unfortunately for you, that had all happened a week before the even more exhausting week of the autumn half term. You'd been running around like mad, working yourself to the bone and unable to take a breather. Unable to call the two men nor Serenity to let them know you'd gotten a new phone and phone number. The last time you'd spoken to them had been during August, right before you'd boarded that plane with Serenity. All three of them must be worried sick for you and you worried for them in return. This was too long to go without at least a wellness check or at least a word that you all were even alive.

Letting out a breath, you push the thoughts from your mind for now, stepping closer towards the table with three patrons awaiting their drinks you carried. Tonight was the night you called them. You were off work tomorrow from both jobs and you missed them terribly. It was time you finally let both Hobie and Ekko know that you were living in London once again.

“Our little server finally came back, boys.” The words make your attention snap to the three men sitting on the stools at the rounded table and you smile at them politely. One of them, the brown haired fellow who'd been the one to speak, gives you a coy grin that has you pressing your lips together. “What took you so long, sweet thing?”

“Just busy doing my job”, you say with a polite chuckle, sliding the respective drinks towards each person. The way they leer at you is beyond uncomfortable. You hoped they wouldn't do what you think they were going to do or else you weren't going to be as nice as you were trying to be at the moment. “Gotta make sure all the thirsty people in here get their fill, right?”

“You sure we can't get you to be our personal little server, darling?” The one with red streaks in his black hair asks, his hand reaching to meet yours before you can pull it away from the pint you'd placed in front of him. His fingers wrap around yours, taking your hand in his and his thumb rubs along your knuckles. You have to bite the inside of your cheek to prevent yourself from letting the polite look on your face melt into one of irritation. It wasn't like you hadn't noticed these three men ogling at you all night, whispering amongst themselves when you first walked up to them to take their orders. It didn't make it any more pleasant to be hit on now that you were in front of them again, especially while you're working.

“Oh, I don't know. Got a lot of orders to dish out right now.” Letting them down easy, you pull your hand away a little too quickly and hurry back towards the bar. Their eyes burn holes into the back of your head and you can feel it, making the rising irritation grow a tad bit bigger. Vander notices the slight scowl on your lips as you reach the bar, his eyebrows furrowing and his words gruff.

“Oi, what's wrong? Customers giving you hell?” Placing the tray back onto the polished wood, you shake your head as he slowly loads it back up with more drinks, the glasses tinking against each other. It was only a little issue, nothing too big that you had to bother your boss about it.

“It's nothing I can't handle, V.”

“If someone's chatting you up and you don't like it, I can have a word with them.”

“I promise, it's nothing. Honest”, you say with a grateful smile. The burly man doesn't seem the least bit convinced, so you take the tray back into your hands before he can pull it away. Most likely trying to make you talk before you take off again. “If it gets to a point where I need help, I'll come to you.”

You don't let him get another word in, patting the wood of the bar softly before heading straight for another table. Business picks up, people flooding in from some charity event that ended a few blocks away from the pub. The three men watch you as you hand out drinks, their gazes never leaving your form for nearly an hour. They call you back over and over, for refills and the chance to sling more pick up lines your way. The smell of alcohol slowly begins to waft from their breaths alone, and you try to ignore the irritation that thrums in your veins as their advances get bolder. Comments and snide remarks that border on sexual to the point you're positively fuming. Your boss watches you with growing concern that you purposely ignore in favor of willing yourself to continue, telling yourself that you only had a few more hours left to go of the suddenly long shift. Sliding them their sixth round of drinks, you let out a quiet sigh.

“Alright, gentlemen. Any more than this and you're gonna be seeing colors.” The three laugh at your joke and you give them a tight lipped smile. It drops the second you turn around, tray tucked under your arm and a hand still holding a drink for a different patron a few tables down. You're so sick of these three that you can't even feel how lax your string on your left pinky has surprisingly become. A familiar laugh rings from across the room then, reaching your ears despite the cacophony of sounds jumbling about the place. Your heartbeat stops before picking up, eyes widening as you search about. That had sounded painfully like Serenity…

“Now that's what I'm talking about. Standing there and letting us appreciate the view. Love that…!” Words coming out in a low whistle, the harsh slap of a hand meeting your ass makes you jolt. Freezing in place, your jaw drops open in disbelief before you whirl around. You peer at the culprit in astonishment, hand gripping the glass tighter as your heart thuds in your ears. He grins up at you, sending a kiss and a wink your way as he brushes his blonde hair out of his face. Patting his thigh, he spreads his legs a little wider and your blood boils. “How about sitting all nice and pretty for us next, sweetheart?”

Muscle ticking in your jaw from how hard you grit your teeth, your body moves before you can think straight. The hand holding onto the drink shoots out, dark brown liquor drenching the offender's face and ice spilling onto his clothing. Anger burns bright in your chest like a flame eating at wood and you have at least some control not to outright punch the man in the face. Even if he did deserve it, you were still at work. The blonde sputters and gasps, eyes screwing shut as he shoots up to his feet. Wiping at the burning liquid stinging his eyes with the back of his hand, he lets out an incredulous sound.

“What the fuck?! The fuck is wrong with you?!”

“Touch me again and I'll break your fucking face!” You spit lowly and his friends seem to dislike that, standing up to tower over you. You give them all a venomous glare, fury shining in your eyes and hands trembling around the now empty glass in your grip. He's lucky you didn't just hit him with it.

“Don't get pissy with us for showing your ugly ass some attention!” Oh, so now they thought you were ugly? After trying to get in your pants all night? It only fuels the fury boiling in your blood and you slam the glass down onto the table along with your tray.

“You three fucks can't take a hint? I don't wanna be six feet near your shriveled shrimp dicks!” It's the one with red streaks in his hair that steps closer into your personal space, all three now glowering down at you with a fury that could match your own. The nauseating amount of ale on his breath makes your nose scrunch up in disgust but you don't back down, even as they try to intimidate you.

“What the fuck did you just say, whore…?” And you were fully ready to repeat yourself, ready to deck him straight between his eyes if he tried coming even a foot closer than he already was. That was until a hand grips your upper arm gently yet firmly and pulls you back. Eyes darting to look up at the back of the person who almost gracefully slid between you and the three men, you can feel your heart shooting up to your throat at the familiar sight. Hair in neat white twists that look almost platinum underneath the dim lights of the pub and a few lighter patches of skin speckled along the back of their neck. Your mouth feels dry and the anger that thrums through your blood is replaced with one of staggering elation. And when the person shielding you opens their mouth, you feel your chest aching in a way it hasn't in a long time.

“Ganging up on someone doing their job is pathetic. A no is a fucking no, assholes.” Ekko says lowly, hazel brown eyes sharp as he looks pointedly at the men before him. Nose scrunching up, he scowls. “You three reek. Go home, you're all wasted.”

“And who the fuck are you, patches?!” Spits the man with brown hair, jabbing a finger against the punk's chest which has your anger growing once again. You step from behind Ekko to stand beside him, arms folded and frustration marring your face. “This doesn't concern you. How bout you go ask the printer to give you back your ink?”

“That the best you can come up with?” Ekko drawls while brushing away the man's finger, both of you noticing how the men start to crowd you. “I'd leave before the owner comes over here, if I were you three.”

“Like we give a shit about the owner”, the blonde one chortles before pointing at you, malice darkening his gaze as he sneers. “We ain't going nowhere until we teach that one some manners.”

“Well, that's rich coming from you lot, yeah?” The words come out softly from behind you and you turn your head to see Vander walking towards the commotion. His face is relaxed, as if he wasn't bothered by the patrons and his employee causing a scene in his bar. Blue eyes sweeping over the men's faces, they light up at the sight of the punk standing beside you. “Ekko! It's good to see you, son. How'd the charity event go?”

“It was great, V. Reached our goal thanks to the band.” Not missing a beat, Ekko turns towards the pub owner with a warm smile, eyes briefly darting down to meet your own, as if you both were pulled to the other by some invisible magnet. He forces his attention back to Vander, the taller man clapping a hand on his shoulder.

“The gang is all here?”

“Everyone except for Hobie. He had to drop off some stuff at home.” Your heart soars at the mention of your other best friend and your fingers move to brush along the necklace around your neck, hazel brown eyes taking note of your every movement and softening at the sight.

“Ah, gotcha. How about a round of drinks for everyone, on me?” Lips quirking up at the offer, the shorter of the two nods his head. Taking your eyes off of the two long enough to glance at the three you'd been arguing with earlier, their faces are so red that you imagine steam would come out of their ears if it was possible. It doesn't look like they like being ignored.

“If you're offerin’. Thanks, man.”

"You twats forget we're here or something?" Blonde hair questions angrily and Vander turns to them with a raised eyebrow.

"You three still in my bar?"

"And who the hell are you supposed to be", red highlights spits, voice wobbling with drunk indignation.

"The person whose bar you're leaving", the man groans before looking down at you with concern. "They put their hands on you, dear?"

"Yeah", you scoff and cross your arms. You don't see the way both men beside you glare daggers at the drunk patrons, too busy sneering at them yourself. "That's why blondie here stinks of peanut butter whiskey right now."

Letting out a low hum of understanding, your boss shifts his gaze toward the blonde offender. Despite his body language giving off a sort of nonchalant indifference, his eyes remain sharp and smoldering.

"Right. You gentlemen best get going. I don't tolerate harassment of my employees."

"And just why would we give a damn about what you say, old man?" The one with brown hair questions lowly, stepping closer until he's inches away from touching Vander's chest with his. Ekko moves to stand between the two but the pub owner just shakes his head and smiles at the man trying to intimidate him. Voice low, Vander tilts his head to the side and chuckles softly.

"I don't think it'd be wise to go hitting the man that pours the drinks, yeah?" It's only then that you notice just how quiet the bar had become, the only sounds being the music playing from the speakers and the softened murmuring of the other patrons. Eyes from every corner of the room are locked on you six, threatening glares pointed at the three drunks that appeared to be sobering up now that they held the menacing attention of the bar. Vander cocks his head and smirks at the nervous gulp that leaves brown hair, watching him slowly back away while his friends look around anxiously. "Now. You gentlemen were leaving... Right?"

Almost stiffly, they slowly nod their heads and inch away from their table towards the door, shrinking under the heated gazes following them out of the bar. Only when the door closes behind them does normalcy return, chatter and laughter echoing around the room. You let out a breath you hadn't known you'd been holding, glare softening and eyes straying back to the men beside you, only for you to catch something red glowing in your peripheral. There aren't any red lights within the pub and with furrowed brows, you trace the source of the soft glow. Breath hitching and eyes growing wide with disbelief once you see the red string on your right pinky glowing faintly. Not only that but it was completely and utterly lax, swinging idly between you and the person tied to you. The one on your left remains taut, dull, and you slowly lift your head to see Ekko looking straight at you. As though he'd never taken his eyes off you to begin with. Hazel brown locks with your own and you find yourself breathless at the onslaught of emotions that swirl within.

He breathes your name, softly, reverently, and you're drowning in one of the beautiful pairs of eyes you'd been longing for.

"...Hi, 'Ko", you murmur, so soft that it's barely heard above the noisy building. Feelings of quick fire disbelief and elation flood through you then, heartbeat stuttering when you realize that they're not entirely your own.

"Y-You've got some explaining to do, trouble", Ekko chuckles, a relieved huff more than anything. His hand reaches for you then, grabbing your arm and pulling you into an embrace you're all but ready to fall in. Arms looping around his waist, your hands grip at the back of his leather jacket, eyes closing as you breathe him in. He was here, real and solid against you and not separated by a screen. Cheek pressing against the top of your head, Ekko lets out a sigh. "I've missed you, bug. What took you so long...?"

"It's a long story", you say while giving a watery laugh, heart swelling and beating a mile a minute. "But it started with me trying to surprise you guys."

"Surprise is definitely one of the things I'm feeling right now", the punk scoffs, pulling back just enough to peer at the soft glow emanating from your connected string highlighting your face like a holy light. His gaze is soft, warm and almost loving, if you were to let your imagination get the better of you. It was a wonder you were attached to one of your childhood best friends in the first place, your damned heart dredging up old feelings you'd struggled to conceal now that you're finally facing one of them after so long.

"'Among other things', I'm guessing?" You hum as you pull back some more, giving him a once over. He looks good, beyond good. Better, especially now that you can see him in person. Since high school, he'd always favored keeping his white hair in twisted locs, the length of it growing as the years passed. Months of not at least video calling each other, you're a little surprised to see that it's gotten longer, the twists almost platinum underneath the lights of the pub and reaching a bit past his shoulders. Half of the punk's hair pulled up into a bun atop his head with a few twists framing his cheeks, your eyes trail over the lighter patches of skin speckled across his face. The white turtleneck compression shirt underneath his dark brown bomber jacket fits his form nicely, along with the green retro cargo pants and brown combat boots. It takes a tremendous amount of willpower to force your gaze and mind elsewhere, mentally cursing your friends for being as attractive as they are. As they've always been, really. You do catch the glint of the pick necklace sitting on his chest, however, and your chest grows warmer at the sight.

"Among other things", he echos softly, tender smile in place as he does the same to you. You think you're imagining the look in his eyes as he takes you in.

"You look good, considering we haven't talked in months.”

“Fuck, right”, you wince, hands slipping from around him as you reluctantly remove yourself from his hold, much to Ekko's disappointment. His hands catch yours, holding them tenderly as your lips twist up into an apologetic grimace. “See, about all that–”

A cough to your right has you both looking over, your raised eyebrow at the interruption falling as you smile nervously. Vander looks at the both of you with a twinkle shining in his blue eyes, arms folded across his chest and lips curled into a smile. You quickly yank your hands from Ekko's, the punk clicking his tongue as he gives the amused man an exasperated look.

“Little upsetting you forgot I was standing here”, your boss chimes teasingly, having been watching the whole moment between you and your newly found soulmate. He looked way too chipper for someone watching their scheduled employee fraternizing with a regular during their shift. Like he knew just what had occurred. “Good to know you actually do have friends, kid. I was getting worried.”

“Sorry for– wait, what's that supposed to mean?” You say with furrowed brows, trying to decide whether or not you should take the burly man's words as an insult or just plain concern for your social life. Punk beside you failing at stifling his amusement, you look at him with narrowed eyes and he shakes his head.

“It's a little sad that your boss thinks you have no friends”, Ekko muses, joking lilt evident in his words and a playful gleam shining in his gaze. He chuckles when you punch his arm in retaliation, grumbling curses under your breath.

“S-Shut up…” Shooting the smug man beside you another look of mild irritation at his teasing, you look over at Vander again apologetically. His gentle expression catches you a little off guard. “Sorry about that, V. I'll go ahead and start cleaning up this table.”

“No need, I can handle it”, he assures you, hands swiftly plucking the forgotten tray lying absentmindedly on the table. He expertly loads the empty glasses and trash onto it before lifting it up in his hands.Turning back to give you a kind smile, one of his hands gently clap your shoulder. “Why don't you go on and take the rest of the night off, hm? I've got it from here. I'll make sure you get a full shift’s pay, too. ”

“What? But, I can work.” You pray you didn't do anything wrong for him to send you home early. And, besides that, you would feel a little guilty for earning your full pay despite not working your full shift. Was this because you'd lost it over the three men harassing you earlier? No, you were sure Vander wasn't like that. He cared more about his employees feeling safe working for him than some assholes who couldn't take no for an answer.

“Don't worry, you're not in trouble, dear”, he muttered softly, that weird uncanny ability he had to read you like an open book making itself known as he fixed the tray in his hand. He tilts his head slightly, motioning towards Ekko with a gentle smile. “You've been working hard for days now. Go on and enjoy your night with your friends, okay?”

“B-But…” Stammering, you don't get to finish your words before the burly man slips away and through the crowds, moving just like a man with years of experience of running his pub mainly by himself.

“Better to just let it go”, Ekko sighs as he steps closer towards you once more, hand brushing yours and hazel brown eyes roaming your face as though he were trying to commit the image of you to memory. “Once his mind is made up, there's no changing it.”

You've only known Vander for a few months but in that short time, you'd figured out pretty quickly just how stubborn he could be. Sighing, you feel fingers wrapping around your wrist in a featherlight caress, a touch that has you searching for the warmth of the man beside you almost instinctively like a moth to a flickering flame. His hands trails along your forearm before gently cupping your elbow. Ekko looks down at you silently then, eyes searching yours like it would give him the answer to everything, to the connected string to you both, to the reason you didn't keep contact with them for months. It's like you can sense the question before it leaves his lips.

“...What happened, trouble…?” Pressing your lips together, you feel the weight of all the months prior settle on your shoulders then and you give a tired shrug, shaking your head as though that'd be enough of an answer.

“Like I said earlier, it's a long story…” He nods slowly then, hand sliding back down to take your hand firmly in his again, the string glowing faintly once more.

“Can you tell it to me while we sit? Something tells me you need a drink and I'm not the only one who's been worried.” Tilting your head in question at his words, he guides you through the building, to the other side of the room in a tucked away corner. It isn't until he stops at an occupied booth that you realize what he meant, mouth dropping open in disbelief. Several heads turn to look at you both and only one of the people sitting down shoots up out of their seat to rush at you.

“What the actual fuck?!” Serenity practically shrieks, your name spilling from her lips in a frantic rush of breath. She climbs over a rather familiar man's lap to get to you, pulling you into a bone crushing hug and hands squeezing you until you feel like you'll pop. Not that you mind when you're squeezing her just as tightly. “You absolute asshole, do you know how worried I've been?! Why haven't you been answering our calls and texts? Where have you been for fuck's sake? Next time you tell me to do something dumb like keep your location a secret, I'm not doing it! This was dumb as fuck!”

“I've missed you too, Reni. I promise I didn't just up and ditch you all”, you laugh softly, eyes stinging with the threat of tears. You'd missed her more than you thought you did these past few months. She pinches your side and pulls back to run her hands up and down your arms, checking you over as if she hadn't seen you in years.

“You sure? It felt like you did. Fuck, I'm just glad you're okay and didn't end up in a murder documentary.”

“Why is that your first assumption”, you question dryly and she all but drags you over to the booth, pulling you to sit between her and Ekko. Looking at the others sitting with you guys, you see the man Reni had climbed over sitting beside her and two others. A woman with brown eyes and black hair, bangs covering her forehead. The other woman, you knew well, her grey eyes sparkling with familiarity. Reni motions towards everyone with a sweep of her hand.

“Kamala, Riri, Ned, this is the one we were telling you guys about!” Riri is the one to point at you, eyes wide and grin lighting up her features.

“I knew it! I knew you were the one Hobie and Ekko were going on and on about!” The punk beside you shuffles in his seat, ears burning slightly and you shoot him an amused look before turning back to Riri.

“I remember you saying you played in a band, but I didn't think it would be Hobie's…” It was crazy to think your coworker knew your best friends, let alone played in a band with one of them. After exchanging pleasantries with Kamala and Ned, you realize that you actually do know Serenity's boyfriend. He was the same Ned that took Mrs. Crumb's class with Hobie and joined his high-school band before you'd left for the States.

“We need different friend circles or something. We can not all know each other”, Reni sighs heavily, shaking her head in mock disappointment, which means absolutely nothing by the way she clings to both you and her boyfriend. “Anyway, enough with the introductions. Tell me everything that happened to you.”

And you do. You tell them everything that had happened during the last few months following your no contact with them, from your draining work-life imbalance, to your phone being murdered in cold blood right before your eyes. When you mention your piece of work called your roommate, Reni tightens the grip around her glass, temper rising. As though she still recalled that first night you'd ranted to her about Cassie. Kamala and Riri are kind enough to give you four space while you told them your story, heading towards the bar counter to chat with Vander and gather the drinks for you all. They tell you about what had been going on in their lives, about the reason they'd been there at the pub in the first place. The charity event that had been a few blocks away was for FEAST and Ekko was the head of it all, the band helping by performing and Serenity bringing food she'd made at the café.

“Hobie's gonna flip out when he sees you”, Kamala remarks cheerfully as both she and Riri come back with drinks, glasses clinking onto the table. Handing you one that you're sure is a mint julep, she looks over at the white haired man sitting beside you with a questioning frown. “Actually, where is he? Wasn't he supposed to be here by now, boss man?”

“Mmhm”, Ekko hums, mouth full of a drink that smelled like caramel. Placing his cup back on the coaster, he pulls his phone out of his jacket pocket and you try not to peer over his shoulder. Brows furrowing and handsome features twisting into a worried frown, he looks up from his device to give everyone a reassuring smile. “He probably got held up. I'll go outside and give him a call.”

“I'll come with you”, you pipe up, all of you sliding out of the booth to let the punk through. He raises an eyebrow at you questioningly and you shrug. “Need some fresh air.”

You don't say the words that rattle in your mind, though. The words that simmer in your chest. That you don't want to leave his side right now, not when one of the pieces of the puzzle called your soul finally came back into your life physically. The way he looks down at you, it's almost like he can tell what you're not saying and a smile graces his lips.

“Alright then. Come on.” Hand reaching for your own, he threads his fingers with yours and pulls you out of the stuffy pub. Cool air hits your flushed cheeks and you shiver. The leather jacket that was just around his shoulders is draped over you faster than you can blink and the warmth seeps into your body, your warm face no longer just flushed from the cold. Ekko's hand never leaves yours as his other thumbs through the contacts on his phone, stopping and pressing on the icon for Hobie. The red string sways between you two. Just as Ekko presses the phone to his ear, you feel the taut sensation on your left pinkie grow steadily lax. The punk beside you seems to sense it the same time you do, both of your heads snapping towards the approaching red van driving down the street. Music blasts from the bass of the vehicle before it quiets down. Scoffing lightly, the white haired man gently tugs you toward the van, while your heart beats a mile a minute. Meeting your second soulmate so soon after finding your first…? It couldn't be who you think it was, could it…?

The closer you get to the van, the more lax your string becomes and you almost want to squeeze your eyes shut, if only to not get your hopes up. The window rolls down to the van and the other voice you'd been dying to hear floods your ears.

“‘Ko? Wha’ ya standin’ out ‘ere for? And who…” Hobie's voice trails off as those russet brown eyes you'd only seen via a screen for the past six years lock onto your own. Once again, your breath leaves you and your heartbeat thuds in your ears. The punk immediately cuts off the engine, hopping out of the car so fast that you hadn't had time to process it before he was standing a few feet away from both you and Ekko. Lips parted, pierced brows furrowed in disbelief and hands shaking ever so slightly at his sides, Hobie looks at you like you were a saving grace he'd been begging all of his life for. Tongue darting out to wet your dry lips, you let your eyes drift down to your lax second string and the choked sound that leaves your lips sounds like a sobbing chuckle. The relief that floods your system then isn't just your own, the man holding your hand squeezing yours softly before letting go as you take a step towards the only other person you're attached to in the whole world.

“...How've you been, Bee?” Hobie's lip quivers as he furiously shakes his head, long legs closing the distance in seconds before his long arms pull your body flush against his. You can feel something warm and wet hit your neck as he holds you close, the string glowing faintly between you as you clutch at his band tee. Hobie lets out a wet laugh even as his body trembles just a bit, sniffing and letting out a heavy puff of air that warms your flesh. He has to bend down a little to pull you closer to him, as close as he physically can, and you swear you're hallucinating when he mumbles a quiet, triumphant ‘I knew it’.

“This the part where ya tell me to wake up, innit?” He sighs softly, and you chuckle, sniffling back your own tears.

“Why? Is this a nightmare for you?” You can feel the stubble on his chin rubbing against your cheek, hear the way amusement colors his tone.

“Oh, yeah, definitely. A terrifyin’, traumatic one at that”, he quips sarcastically, playful lilt in his voice and he chuckles as you slap his arm in retaliation. Hobie pulls back just enough to gaze down at you, russet brown eyes roaming over your features reverently. “Still. I wanna see this one through. I don't wanna wake up…”

Stupid heart doing somersaults in your chest at his gentle expression, you find yourself looking away despite how much you want to bask in the seemingly loving aura radiating from him towards you. Ekko watches the exchange between you two silently, a warm smile on his face all the while. Happy that the two people he loved more than anything were now reunited once again. Hobie slowly pulls away from you, much to your mutual disappointment, and you're struck again with the fact that your two best friends are stupidly attractive. The taller punk standing before you sports a ripped band tee that fits him a little too well, a black cropped leather jacket, and ripped jeans adorned with swinging pocket chains. The black combat boots on his feet plus the several rings on his fingers compliments the outfit nicely. And, just like Ekko, he wears the pick around his neck among the choker and other necklaces on his neck.

“Wha’ are ya even doin’ ‘ere, me duck? Wha’ happened? None of us could get in touch wit’ you for so long.”

“Right, right. Ugh, it's a long story-” Your words are cut short by the sudden ringing of your phone and you can feel frustration growing in your chest at your reunion being interrupted. The call ends just as you swipe your thumb to answer it, a text popping up on your screen right after. Seeing the name of the person who sent it, you internally groan at seeing Cassie’s name. Eyes scanning the text, your look of mild annoyance slowly begins to shift to one of pure furious incredulity.Your grip on your phone tightens and both men stand beside you with worry as you feel your world crumbling in just minutes. Cassie has just kicked you out. Kicked you out of your shared flat, let her problematic boyfriend move in and threw your stuff outside the door. You type furiously, demanding answers, demanding any legitimate reason for her just blatantly disregarding to at least give you thirty days to find another place. All you get back is a heart and peace sign emoji. Your feelings of indignation and hopelessness bleed into your connection with the two punks on either side of you, Hobie patting your shoulder worriedly.

“Lovie…?” Let out a long, staggering sigh, you take a deep breath before letting it out once more. Just when you thought the universe was giving you a break, just when you thought nothing could spoil this moment of reuniting with the two men you held dear and finding out that they were always meant to be in your life. The Cassie situation officially blew up in your face. Several long minutes pass before you look at them both apologetically, gifting them a forced smile that doesn't reach your eyes.

“I'm sorry. I'm really sorry, I just… I have to get home. S-Something came up, so…” They spare a glance at each other before nodding. Hobie throws Ekko the keys, the shorter of the two rounding the van to slide into the driver's seat. Hobie opens the passenger side door and motions with his head.

“C'mon then. Let's get you home”, the punk says softly, the caring look shining in his russet brown eyes and it makes your chest ache. You didn't want them to know you were now probably homeless.

“N-No, it's fine, I'll just walk–”

“Jus’ get in, love. It'll be faster.”

“No, really, I'm good. You guys are sweet–”

“Love..”

“Get in the car, trouble. Before I have Bee pick you up and buckle you in”, Ekko says firmly, hazel brown eyes looking at you expectantly. Hobie smiles and motions with his head yet again, the both of them stubbornly refusing to let you walk alone. Not when they just found you again after all this time. Not when you were the last piece missing in their lives like they'd always known you were. You want to refuse again but the looks they give you makes your stubbornness cave, a sigh leaving your lips as you climb into the passenger seat. Closing the door once you're seated comfortably, Hobie climbs into the seat behind Ekko and the white haired punk drives off down the street once you give him the directions to your flat.

“...Wanna talk ‘bout it…?” The punk sitting in the back speaks up after a moment of silence caused by you stewing in your own dilemma. Biting down on your bottom lip, you shake your head, if only to spare them your feelings on the matter. “You're not fine, lovie. I can feel it, y’know.”

“Same here”, Ekko pipes up, eyes briefly peeking over at you before focusing back on the road. You don't see the look both men share through the mirror. “Perks of being tied together… Please tell us what's going on, bug. We're here to help you ‘cause we care about you.”

And you know they're telling the truth about wanting to help, you didn't need the strings tethering you to them to know that. That's just how Hobie and Ekko were, caring for their loved ones and ensuring that they were okay no matter what. That's just one of the many things that you loved about them. Taking a deep breath, you let it out in a rush of air and quietly tell them what you only found out moments ago. By the time you're done telling them about the Cassie situation, both men are sporting looks that could kill. Ekko looks annoyed, pissed off and silent about it as his hands tighten their grip on the steering wheel, the van starting to turn in on your street. Hobie scoffs and scrunches his nose up in irritation.

“That's utter shite and fucked up. This ain't the first time your roommate screwed you over?” Shaking your head, you rub at your temples gingerly, trying to will away the headache that was threatening to grow. Ekko slowly parks just outside of the entrance of your building, and you can tell he's thinking hard about something by the way his tongue visibly pokes the inside of his cheek.

“No, that's not even the half of it. I'll tell it to you after I see what's going on.” Opening the door, you step out of the car and head towards the apartment building before you. Striding pass flat after flat, feet moving quickly as you rush towards your shared home. You hear the loud bass thumping music first before you see the flashing lights spilling from the bottom of the door. Eyes straying towards the suitcases and vase lying on the stained carpet of the building, you feel your chest burn with anger at the note lying on top of it all. One that stated that Cassie had changed the locks and that you could just throw away the old key. Shoulders shaking with barely restrained fury, your indignation remains deaf to the party happening just beyond that door. Frustrated shout leaving your lips, you kick the door harshly, again and again and again. You only stop when you're out of breath and see the wooden door beginning to chip. Minutes pass as you stand there, huffing and chest heaving, trying to rein in the anger that made you want to kick the door down entirely. A hand suddenly placed on your shoulder startles you a bit and you turn to see Hobie and Ekko gazing at you. Not with pity, not with judgement. Just a quiet steady presence in the place of your raging emotions.

Taking steadying breaths and letting them out slowly, you let the anger wash over you until it's calmed enough that you don't feel like punching through the dumb door. Without even asking if you need help, the two punks each grab one of your suitcases, Hobie motioning for you to grab your vase. Bending down and plucking it from off of the floor, you walk behind them silently, heading back towards the van parked outside. Almost a full fifteen minutes pass in silence once your things are put safely within the trunk, and Hobie then clears his throat, almost nervously.

“Right. That's that… How are you holdin’ up, love…?” Shrugging, you rub a palm over your forehead.

“I don't know… I mean, I was always planning to leave Cassie and get another place under my name. I-I just didn't think it would be so soon.” Which was true. You were more mad that she kicked you out in an awfully ridiculous way than you were about being kicked out all together. Groaning softly, you let your head fall back into the passenger seat as you all climb back into the car. “Where's the nearest hotel…?”

“Woah, wait”, Ekko stops you as he turns in his seat to fully face you, arm draped over the dashboard. “Why a hotel? You could just stay with me and Bee.”

“Yeah, but, I don't really wanna be a bother on you guys”, you mumble softly, gazing down at the two strings tied around both of your pinkies. Hobie lets out a fake offended gasp and shakes his head.

“Could never be a bother, me duck. Never. Plus, we got a spare room. If… If you want it, that is…” You turn your head to blink at Hobie curiously, questioningly. They weren't saying what you think they were saying… were they…?

“What are you guys saying…?” Almost simultaneously, the two punks reach over to hold each of your hands in theirs, gazing at you with such tenderness that it makes your breath stutter in your chest. The red strings connecting you three glow softly as Ekko slowly speaks up.

“So… Listen. We've been searching for a roommate for months now and, well, we all are tied together…” Lips twisting in a frown at how he trips a little over his words, you can't help the endeared smile gracing your lips then. Something warm and utterly enamored wells up in your chest and you bite down on your bottom lip to refrain from giggling at the way his ears flush a light dusting of red. However, the mention of all of you three being tied together instead of just you being matched with them both like you'd thought lingers in your mind. The implications of it ring and you realize the two men were also soulmates of each other. Hobie idly rubs a thumb along the back of your knuckles, as though he'd made up his mind about all of this.

“Lovely… Move in wit’ us…” Eyes widening slightly, you hadn't expected for him to say it so suddenly. “Ya need a new place and we have plenty of room. Besides, you still owe me that story ‘bout how you got ‘ere.”

Chuckling softly, the two punks look at you like you were the oasis to their desert, something raw shining within those beautiful sets of eyes you adore so much. Those feelings of longing for something more than friendship rear their head again, harder this time, more insistent, and by the way they both grip your hand a little tighter, you know that they felt it. There was no hiding this time, not when your soulmates could feel the fluttering emotions flooding through your bond. Something else glimmers in their eyes then, something sweeter, softer, something that reminded you of that day they gifted you the pick around your neck that matches perfectly with theirs. Something that told you they've felt the same way for a long time. None of you utter a word for several heartbeats and you think of everything that had led to this moment, to this night where you finally made your way back home. And nothing else seemed to matter after that.

“...Tell me everything while I unpack…?” The beaming grins that light up their features will forever be ingrained in your memory. You would all have to talk more, talk about everything better, about the strings that connected you three and what you think would work best for you all. But, that could come later, when you settled into your new home that was always meant to be yours in the first place.

“Of course, bug. Gonna tell you everything, from start to finish. Oh, almost forgot to tell you something.” Lifting your hand up to his lips, Ekko places a kiss so soft on your knuckles, Hobie lifting your other hand to his to do the same.

“Welcome home, bug.”

“Welcome home, lovely.”

Finally. You were home.

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