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Tossing and turning in bed, Rudo grumbles, hopping out of his bed. “Sleep is useless right now” he mumbles out to the empty room. It's cold and got too much on his mind. Sleep had never been good to begin with and now the new stressors of the ground; work, his goals, getting back to the sphere.
It's all just jumbling in his head, making sleep impossible. Maybe someone will be awake to talk with or train since he is just running circles in his mind again. Zanka would never be up, Follo and Tomme are a maybe, Gris and Enjin are up late normaly.
A mini Regto pops into his mind and chastises him about only talking to people he knows at the organization. To go out of his normal routine or circle, maybe someone new might surprise him.
It seems to have worked in some instances so maybe he should. Plus, remembering his dad makes him want to try and get along with more people.
He doesn't want to be old and alone like Regto was.
Leaving his room, the hallways are silent and empty. Not like anyone would be just standing around them at this time anyways. So closing his door quietly, sneaking past doorways to not wake others if they are light sleepers. Slips into the more common areas of Cleaner HQ. Passing the normal spots, there weren't anyone in them anyways. Until he is nearing the last room. Hearing shushed whispers, Rudo perks up, someone else is awake! Even two since there were different voices. Rudo freezes. When he enters the room though.
There, on a couch is Enjin, or well Enjin's back. As he straddles legs of… was that Gris? Yeah, he can't be hidden easily behind someone due to his size.
It interested Rudo though what they were doing. They were paying him no mind, or more that they didn't notice anyone enter the doorway. Faces pressed against each other as their lips attacked each other.
Oh, they are kissing.
Backing up out of the room. Regto had told him about kissing, but only when he was told to go after Chiwa and to give her a big smooch after confessing.
Enjin and Gris weren't going out though, he'd never seen them do anything of the sorts. Rudo thought they were close friends. He doubts anyone else will be up and interrupting those two, announcing he was there watching them… No thanks.
Maybe rotting in his room will be the best thing to do right now. On the way up though, the thought of Enjin and Gris, how they looked to be enjoying themselves. Was kissing fun? Should he try it? Since it seemed alright between friends on the ground maybe he can ask someone he has gotten close too?
Riyo? No, she would most likely make fun of him.
Amo? No she's been through enough.
Eishia? He could feel August's bloodlust from the thought alone.
Those were the only options though, since those were girls, but Enjin and Gris were both guys. Is the ground more open to that thing? He'll have to ask someone, but broadening his horizons.
Zanka? Honestly Rudo would rather jump off a cliff.
August? Honestly now he could feel Eishia's medical malpractice now…
Follo? That's not a bad choice.
After his first job, they officially became friends. Talking more and working on their communication with each other.
His feet shift with the silent decision. No longer walking towards his own room, but Follo's. If they are up, maybe Rudo can ask about it. Or maybe he can learn from Follo about groundling relationships and how they work. Since all he knows about how they work on the sphere, and that's from Regto who he never saw get with anyone either.
Feet slowly come to a stop as the door decorated in a snowflake mural greets his eyes. Something Remlin painted soon after they became a giver when they visited. The spellcaster has been stopping by sometimes to paint the walls and doors where Gob had yet to fill in with his own work.
Not wanting to over think it, Rudo raises his gloved hand and with the backside knocks the metal ring of his glove onto the door. The sound of it helps not having to hit as hard with his scarred hands.
Waiting a bit longer than usual, second guessing Follo might be asleep. If so, he'll just ruminate on the questions to ask for tomorrow and maybe that'll ease his mind more than everything else it was trying to think about.
Turning to walk back to his room, the sounds of a lock being turned is loud compared to the quiet hallway as the door is pulled open slowly. Follo pops his head out, eyes widening once he sees Rudo in the hallway. "Rudo? What do you need?" Voice groggy from obvious sleep, before yawning and wiping their eyes.
"My bad, didn't mean to wake you. I have a question that only you can answer. Can I come in?" Rudo asks while keeping his voice low approaching Follo.
Watching Follo’s face it seems like he might say no, go back to bed and Rudo wouldn't blame him since it was late. But Follo backs up and opens the door for Rudo to enter. “If you woke me up it's got to be important.”
It wasn't really that important, but he was interested in learning right now. So Rudo steps in as Follo turns on the lights, heading back to the bed as Rudo follows as well.
It was clear the older teen was asleep as the sheets and pillows were a mess, thrown about to get up and see who was at his door. Rudo almost feels bad for waking them up and debates now after seeing the bed, that maybe now wasn't the best time.
"What did you need?" Follo asks as he sits on the side of the bed, patting at the spot beside him for Rudo to sit as well.
Hoping up, he sits close enough, their legs brushed against each other. "Uhhh so I saw Gris and Enjin earlier.”
Follo nods in recollection. "Mhmm, those two normally hang out.”
It's true. Those two are always together and that doesn't explain anything.
Mind racing, trying to find the exact way to ask and maybe not get punched if it sounded weird. Which didn't help how close Follo was now, they would always sit by each other when there was a gathering. Jr was better company than some of the other Cleaners. But this feeling Rudo has all of a sudden is different and he doesn't want to mess up his friendship with Follo.
They must've noticed the silence because he turns and watches Rudo’s face with tired curiosity. “What else?"
Well he won't get anywhere if he doesn't ask, plus the other boy will get upset if Rudo runs off after actually waking him up for nothing.
“They uhhhh,” Rudo pauses but decides to pull the bandage off. “werekissingandIwaswonderingifwecouldtry.”
The buzzing of HQ seemed to get louder as silence fell between the pair. Rudo can't look up, with Follo not replying maybe they weren't the best one to ask. Maybe if Rudo took off and ran back to his room, he'd tell Follo they had a weird dream and he definitely didn't come by in the middle of the night asking for a kiss.
Wow, that sounds worse now the more he thinks about it, who just asks others for a kiss. He needs to sleep, if this is what his sleep deprived brain thought was a good idea to ask someone that!
Tensing up, he's about to take off when Follo stops him, raising a hand to brush against his arm ever so slightly. "Wait, can you repeat that? To make sure I heard you right."
Grumbling, Rudo is sure his face is as red as it feels. Settling back to not run away just yet, “Can we try kissing?”
Rudo can feel the bed dip as Follo shifts his weight, "Oh I did hear you right." They say and Rudo whips around to ask what that means, but they are already leaning down.
Follo is all he can see as lips brush against his own. The feeling is soft and it's warm at the connection.
Then it's over as quick as it happened.
Follo had already pulled back and is looking down at him, searching for something, but then face contorts as he couldn't fight off a yawn. “Is that all you needed?”
Nodding. Rudo hops off the bed, not being stopped this time. “Night.”
“Nights” Follo says as Rudo closes the door. Walking to his room, not even noticing until his head hits his pillow.
Mind now blank of any other thoughts than of how lips felt against his own… how Follo's lips felt.
With only one thought on his mind, Rudo finds it easier to fall asleep now.
..
Waking up, Follo brushed a hand down his face, rubbing at the crust cult up on his eyes. Then they lower, lingering on his lips as the heat from his fingers reminded him of last night.
Last night, he had a visitor.
Rudo.
Rudo, who asked him for a kiss.
Then they both went to bed.
Follo cannot believe it, was he making it up?
His brain doesn't just make up scenarios and make them feel like they actually happened. So he kissed Rudo last night. And then they didn't talk afterwards! Maybe Rudo won't kill him.
They should talk it out. Rudo is always at breakfast early, without many others around. They would be a good time to talk. Jumping up to get ready quickly he heads to the cafeteria.
Only to be met with the noise of someone cooking their meal in the back and a few other early birds trying to wake up over coffee before wrapping food.
No Rudo though.
Maybe he'll appear as Follo eats. Grabbing what's available to eat for the morning. Halfway through with the meal, Zanka walks in, alert and awake. Grabbing a cup of hot water to make breakfast tea before sitting at the table Follo was at.
Sitting in silence for a few minutes as Zanka savors the tea. Eventually Follo finishes his meal and with Zanka always knowing where Rudo was. The best person to ask, “Have you seen Rudo this morning?”
“No I have not and if he sleeps in, missing training. I'm going to make him run 100 laps round HQ and he'll never want to accidentally sleep in again.” Zanka says calmly, but Follo can see the twitch his eyebrow does as he finishes his tea. “If you see him, kick him out the closest window into the training area and I'll hit him with Lovely so hard he'll forget who even pushed him out the window in the first place.”
Then Zanka leaves not even hearing if Follo had anything to add. That worries him. What if Rudo really did end up in the infirmary for pissing Zanka off by being late. Putting his dishes into the dirty bins he heads out the door. Passing Gris and Enjin, “woah there, where are you going off to in a rush?” Enjin calls out as Gris says afterwards, “You did eat already right?”
“Yes, and going to make sure Rudo is up before Zanka finds him!” Follo says before taking the stairs up to the Givers sleeping quarters.
Rudo's door sits there, there isn't any noise behind it. So either Rudo is awake and just hasn't run into him, maybe avoiding him after last night.
Or they really are still asleep. Which is good if so, since everyone knows how hard it is for them to get any sleep. It's daytime though, knocking on the door politely. It's better for him to wake Rudo up than an angry Zanka later.
After a minute of no answer. Follo knocks again, a little louder this time.
But still nothing.
Maybe he is already out, but Follo just had a feeling he is inside his room. Trying the handle… it's unlocked. Did Rudo really not head Riyo and Enjin's warning about locking his door?
Follo pushes the door slowly. Looking around, on the bed tucked in the corner, Rudo has the blankets baled up around him, still passed out.
Closing the door quietly behind him, Follo walks over and unfortunately the pile of trash in his room takes up most of the space beside the bed. Having to get on the foot of the bed to reach out and shake Rudo's legs. “Rudo, hey, wake up!”
Rudo grumbles and turns away from him.
Okay, is he sick? Follo shimmies up the bed and place a hand on their forehead. It's not hot but that would have explain a few things if he did have a fever last night.
Looking down at Rudo like this, he's asleep and doesn't have that permanent scowl that's sits on his face every second he is away. Unfortunately that's when Rudo decides to wake up. Red eyes pop open and look directly into his.
Surprised out of his train of thought, he flounders to figure out what to say as to why he isbin Rudo’s bed, hovering above him. Then remembering why he was in the room to begin with. “Rudo wake up, Zanka is going to kill you if you miss practice!” Follo says quickly, covering up any questions about waking up with him just staring at the sleeping boy.
Unfortunately, things must be clicking in place for Rudo as his face goes red as he last there. Pointing to Follo, “You last night, w- we.” Rudo looks around, “why are you in my room?”
Follo in turns blushes, well he did want to talk about it. “You overslept and I came to wake you up. Uhmmm, and last night yeah you came to my room and asked me for ...a kiss” Rudo just blanks and sitting still not saying anything. Continuing to panic, Follo starts blabbering. “It wasn't bad, I've kissed a few other people before, if you're worried about that. Actually it was nice, kissing is nice, I- I if you wanna kiss more wouldn't mind. If you want, no worries if I was bad at kissing, it's been awhile and-”
Rudo shifts, and Follo clamps his mouth closed and realizes he absolutely word vomited when Rudo didn't say anything.
“You want to… again?” Rudo asks, sitting up in bed.
Follo takes a glance at Rudo, his eyes wide open in shock but leaning forward, almost eager for Follo's reply. “yeah “
When Rudo shifts forward, he brushes his lips against Follo's and he can feel it calm his anxiety. Another feeling surges up, one he had been trying to shove down ever since the spherite had joined the Cleaners. His little crush is not so little anymore with the possibility they like him back.
This kiss lasted just a bit longer than the one from last night, but Follo already wanted so many more.
Rudo pulls back and seems to finally digest what Follo said because instead of talking about anything. He jumps up, “Wait what time is it? Zanka is absolutely going to kill me.” And before Follo can say much, Rudo gets out of bed and leaves the room, running away from Follo and his talk. Well Rudo didn't know he wanted to and seemed okay with it. They'll see each other later anyways.
It is later, a few days later. Between their own training, Gris pulled him one way and Enjin or Riyo or Zanka pulling Rudo another.
They hadn't been able to chat much alone, they've been on a mission together but didn't want to bring it up around others. When Rudo took the seat next to Follo in the car on the way home it was a good sign that Rudo doesn't hate him.
Unfortunately Gris drove, making Follo fell asleep like everyone did when they drove, or almost everyone. Rudo can somehow resist Gris's take over of the wheel that lulls people to sleep.
So when he was shaken awake by gloved hands, couldn't help by notice how nice the nap was. With a warm pillow that smelt like clean air and a pillow that was so soft it tickled his nose.
Another shake had Follo realizing he wasn't in his bed, but still in the car…. Draped over Rudo, drool falling out his mouth into the black frosted white hair.
Follo jerks away from Rudo, rubbing at the corner of his mouth. “I'm so sorry! Please forgive me!”
“It's fine.” Rudo says using his jacket hood to blotch up some of the mess. “You were sleeping well enough not to notice we returned.”
Looking around, nobody else is in the car. Spotting that most are already walking out of the garage and into Headquarters. Leaving Rudo and Follo alone. Follo’s brain thinks this is the perfect time. “Hey Rudo, can we talk about the other day.”
Rudo, who was gathering up his unused trash from the mission to leave the car, stops. “Uhhh, what's to talk about?”
That hurts, just a bit, that Rudo either didn't want to or didn't know they needed to talk. Follo doesn't want this to end before it barely even begins. So he goes for it, in case he needs to stop himself from getting more feelings for his coworker. “Did you want to keep doing it?”
“Like right now?” Rudo asks and Follo pops open his eyes as he is shaking his head back and forth, but not in a no, his eyes scanning outside the vehicle. “Don't see why not.”
Then to Follo's surprise, Rudo kneels over in the seats and kisses him. Letting out a small surprised squeak at the action, but pushes into the kiss, chasing after lips when they pull away. Follo grabs his shirt, keeping him from back up.
Maybe Follo was greedy, but he just woke up from a nap and the thought of kissing his crush more was intoxicating, “another one?” Almost hoping he's got those puppy eyes his mom would always complain about when he asked for something he really wanted.
Rudo doesn't make him wait long with his answer. Leaning into him, Follo groans into it, can't help the noises he makes as he mends his lips around Rudo’s own.
When Rudo backs up this time, Follo lets him go. He gathers the trash, and waits for Follo to get out of the car first. Making their way back to each other's rooms without saying much else.
..
Entering into a common room. Rudo scans, looking for a fuzzy hat, Follo has taken to wearing all the time when in uniform. He had just got back from a mission and was looking around for them.
Gris catches his eye, “Rudo! How'd it going? Looking for Follo?”
“Yeah just got back from a job, it went well.” Rudo replies walking up to Gris as Enjin flops next to them on the couch.
Gris takes a moment to push Enjin away, “No, you stink of trash, do not get me dirty.” Turning back to Rudo, “he went up to his room already, said he was tired.”
Nodding, “Oh okay, I'll let him rest then.” He can keep busy this afternoon with a few repairs he needs to do so it's whatever.
Gris calls out to him as he is leaving. “You should clean up and visit him, Follo won't mind if it's you.”
“Okay” is all he says as he leaves behind the two adults who look at each other smirking.
“Oh they are horrible at hiding whatever is going on between them.” Enjin says, trying to get closer but Gris has an iron grip on keeping him away.
“Enjin, not until you clean up. You know how I feel about you coming back all grimy from a job and being all over me. Plus I know those two are close but Follo hasn't told me anything about them. So maybe they are slowly getting there. Which is good, neither needs to rush into anything.” Gris says as Enjin groans and gets up.
“Fine, I'll go clean up. Rudo hadn't told me anything either and most likely won't. But he is horrendous at trying to keep a secret. Always looking for Follo, sitting or standing next to him. Or if Rudo needs to pick any supporter it's always Follo.” Enjin starts flailing his arms around in a way to make fun of them before laughing at himself and walking off.
Gris agrees, getting up and following Enjin back to his room. “Just wish they would tone it back with training. They are always pushing each other harder to try out new things and I always worry they will hurt each other bad when training. Even with all of us there.”
Patting Gris on the shoulder, Enjin gathered up new clothes. “Come on, I can remember back when we were still starting out. Gave each other some good bloody noses and black eyes while training. Let them do their thing. Stop worrying.”
“Fine. I'll wait till Follo comes and talks to me about it.” Gris grumbles and flops onto their bed waiting for him to get done with his shower.
Rudo who has just finished his own shower and changed into clean clothing that didn't smell. Or he hoped they didn't. Follo had never pushed him away like Gris did earlier with Enjin. He never thought about it since his nose hadn't been able to differentiate much of the ground smells apart from the lingering trash smell that was always present.
Maybe he will put more effort into make sure he is clean once back from missions. Since they have been just hanging out in each other's rooms. Thinking about it, Follo always did show up outside of his uniform when they came into his.
They would sit and chat about the mission or training for the day. Giving pointers and advice, before Follo would flick their eyes downward. Enough for him to get the hint, maybe need to gesture a few times if Rudo was really into what they were talking about. He liked the silent ask and patient wait till he was ready. Then Rudo would lean forward and Follo would meet him halfway.
A quick peck was the start, a test, before Follo would reach a hand up brushing his cheek as a small ask for more. Rudo would always give him what he asked for, meeting in the middle again as they pushed into each other lightly. Sometimes Follo would let out little noises that had Rudo wanting to stay connected for longer. Needing air won as he would pull back, face red and needing a moment. Follo would do what Rudo felt conformable with and he appreciated that.
Also wondering if that was it with kissing. Their team leads were very all over each other, mouths open and Rudo thought he saw a tongue poking into another's mouth. Thinking of licking Follo seemed weird, but Rudo found himself wanting to try every time they kissed. He just didn't know how to ask.
Already had been embarrassed when Follo suggested closing his eyes when they kissed instead of keeping them open.
That led to Rudo kicking him out of his room that day. Next time he did try then proceeded to grumble at Follo when they asked how it was.
It had made things more surprising then when he could see what Follo was doing.
Mind set for today, he heads over to Follo's room. Opening the door, Follo kept it unlocked if he was inside and awake. Allowing Rudo to not have to hit his hands on the door when they could possibly have a flare up.
They weren’t startled when the door opened and closed. Follo was laying in bed, flipping through a book. “Welcome back! How was the mission today?” He asks, bookmarking his page, turning his focus on Rudo.
“Went alright, Zanka got in my way and proceeded to chuck me at a trash beast saying ‘I got in his way’. He was lucky I had an item in my pocket to activate and take down the beast he threw me at.” Rudo said while moving to sit beside Follo.
Laughing in that loud airy way that Rudo liked, it wasn't at him, just laughing at the situation. “I bet you guys were yelling at each other so loudly it brought in more beasts right?”
“Yeah and so Enjin made us kill all of them as well, not even attempting to help. I don’t know why Gris was complaining when Enjin sat next to him saying he stunk.”
Now that made Follo laugh more, “Gris’ll complain about everything Enjin does. He has his set rules and Enjin knows them. Pushing at the boundaries every so often.”
“mhmm” Rudo says, looking over at Follo, distracted. Licks his lips, thinking about how warm Follo is.
Follo noticed, a bit of surprise on his face, but leans over, giving him a quick peck. Before he can back up, Rudo grabs his shirt to keep him there.
Opening his own mouth and licking a fat strip across Follo’s lips. It was alright, Rudo could feel the little cracks at the bottom of their lips where they always nibble at them when nervous.
Letting out a surprised mmmf, Follo pulls back sure this time. “Woah, Rudo what are you doing?” Hand over his mouth wiping away the saliva and face turned instant red.
Rudo thought, that wasn't it, it was different. “I wanted to try something. Using tongue, seen others do it before.” Rudo says pointing at his tongue he has stuck out again, to drive the point across.
“That's great to know you want to try other kinds of kissing.” Follo says but still red.
“Different kinds of kissing?” He repeats back. “There's even more?”
“Yeah but I haven't really done a lot of them either. Umm this,” Follo says moving his face close, but he brushes their noises together before pulling back again. “is an Eskimo kiss. It's more cute and used when one can't access the lips. It's used often when one can't kiss the other. Like when we wear masks, though not may people do it often.”
Rudo will have to remimber that one.
Follo turns, looking anywhere not but at him as a blush takes over his face. “But if you wanted to try that one, with the tongue, umm we could, If you want.”
“Have you done it before?” Rudo asks, leaning in to try and hear better since they weren't talking to him directly anymore. Interested to know how much more they know about this topic.
“No, but let's take it slow okay?” Follo says, leaning into Rudo after he nods in agreement. Meeting up to kiss like they normally would.
Slow and easy is how they start, Rudo debating on what to do next that isn't just shoving his tongue out and licking Follo again. When he feels Follo’s mouth open slightly and just the tip of his tongue flicks out across Rudo’s lips.
It's soft and slow, asking for permission. Rudo opens his mouth. Was going to try doing that also, but Follo is quick and pushes his tongue inside of Rudo’s mouth!
Rudo sucks in a breath around it, feeling how weird the sensation is, but it's also nice. Can understand the appeal, but Rudo wants to try it the other way, pushing into the kiss, goes to try and sneak his tongue past Follo's. Who surprisingly fights Rudo over who's mouth they are in.
His hand grab Follo and he fells Follo's hands grab his sides. It's a fight of push, tug, and pull. Until they both release each other gasping for air.
Rudo is looking down at Follo. They've moved, no, he has moved, now sitting in their lap. Hands bunching the front of Follo’s shirt as theirs are gripping his sides.
They sit there breathing, taking everything that just happened in.
Rudo hasn't felt like this when they were kissing prior, and Follo is really flush underneath him.
“I-is it bad I wanna do that again?” A small voice he recognizes as his own, comes out.
Follo doesn't break eye contact with him, “No, would it be bad if I want too as well?” Rudo can't argue with that and they both lean back into each other. Sealing lips together, starting slow again but Rudo is impatient. Slipping just the tip of his tongue out, licking slightly at Follo's lips, asking permission like they had.
The slightest opening Follo gave him and Rudo took it. Feeling Follo's teeth first licking along them, feeling the little indents between each tooth, feels how sharp his canines are. Before another tongue finds his, and presses into his. Fighting him as he tries to map out Follo's mouth by feeling alone. As little vibrations he recognizes as Follo making sounds that urge Rudo on as he eats them up.
Can taste the chips Follo ate for a snack before he showed up. Salty and tasty, would Follo taste like this any other part of the day or just right now?
Pulling back, they both are breathing heavily and face red. Rudo goes back in, wanting more.
Follo stops him with a hand over his face, palm facing up “No, that's enough for today. Please.”
Freezing. Was it bad? He slides off Follo. Sitting regularly on the bed beside him. As he gets his breathing back under control now that it isn't restricted by activities. Did he do something wrong? Was it not good, it was good for Rudo, great even. He can see why both Enjin and Gris didn't realize Rudo had entered the room while they were in the middle of kissing.
All his attention had been on Follo, who had wanted to stop.
A hand brushes the side of his head and a face appears in his peripherals as Follo leans over to get his attention. “Hey it wasn't anything you did. Or well we both did. It was just a lot all at once. How about we go grab dinner?”
Relief flooded Rudo at his reassuring words. “Yeah, I was getting hungry.”
Pressing forward, Follo lads a single kiss on Rudo's nose. “I could tell.” Then laughs at what he said whole getting up.
“What is that supposed to mean!?”
“Nothing, nothing” Looking into his mirror, fixing a few strands of hair and wiping his mouth. Rudo feels the need to do the same before they head down to grab food.
..
Turns out Rudo liked sneaking Follo kisses when he could outside of the safety of their room.
Walking down a hallway, Rudo will look around. Then pull Follo's shirt till he leans over for Rudo to quickly give him one.
If they have missions together, Follo has found that if they are behind the car while everyone gets ready, Rudo will raise up and brush masks together, saying a quick "Don't eat shit” before heading off towards everyone.
Those were one of Follo's favorites, a little pep rally between the two. It always got Follo pumped up and ready for missions.
But most of all, when him and Rudo were alone in each other's room was were they could lean against each other. Pulling each other close, not having to worry about eyes on them. Rudo has gotten better with practice. Finding out what made Follo groan into his mouth, also shooting to get as many little noises out of the supporter.
Follo liked the kisses, but also felt bad, he was obviously turned on but Rudo hadn't seemed to get there yet. Interrupting the kissing each time, Follo didn’t want to ask or push him into anything so when he felt like he was getting to a point where, if Rudo was sitting on him and could possibly find out he would slowly get them to stop. Get back to talking or he had found out Rudo liked cuddling as well.
Some afternoons, Rudo would come in. Lay next to him as he was reading, and then passed out. Making Follo so happy they were comfortable enough to fall asleep.
Sometimes after finishing dinner, they would want to talk about what they want to accomplish in joint training the next day. Heading back to one of their rooms, which then led to them making out. These times though, Rudo would ask to stop, saying he was tired and asked to just sleep over. Of course Follo would say yes.
Sleeping with Rudo under the covers with him made his heart thump loudly. Hoping the other couldn't hear it as they settled in, pulling each other close. Rudo had slept that whole night the first time and Follo had to shake him awake that morning.
Leading to Rudo laying in Follo’s bed more than his own. Complaining it was cold or he wasn't going to sleep anyways so if he wasn't, he'd rather stay with Follo. Leading to Rudo having a 50/50 chance of sleeping beside Follo compared to his normal 20% chance of getting a few hours every so often.
It didn't matter much to Follo. He got good night and good morning kisses when Rudo was in his room.
..
Everyone knew something was going on between them, they just didn't say. But would smirk between each other when Follo and Rudo would come around from behind the vehicle blushing. Or show up to dinner with bruised lips. Riyo would give Rudo some of her chap stick when he complained about chapped lips.
Then she would go up to Tomme and they would tell each other what they saw or overheard the last few days. Gossiping about the love life of Cleaners was what they liked to do.
Today, Rudo had finished putting back together this walkie talkie. It has a little light up top that works and can pick up static. He'll have to mess with it to see if any music from the radio stations can be played on it. Then tell others to be on the look out for another broken one and maybe he can link them together.
Putting it on his bedside table, he leaves it to walk through the halls, about to head to training when he hears Semiu voice, “Now you two, make it back here in four days. And in one piece.”
Interested Rudo goes to look at who she is talking to. He knows Enjin is going away for a few days, but didn't mention a job, or going with anyone. Looking into the entrance room, it's just Semiu, Enjin, and Gris there.
Enjin notices him instantly and calls him over. “Hey, glad to see you before we leave. Remember to listen to Zanka while I'm away.”
“Tell Follo he better not slack on weights while I'm gone and to get Tomme to spot for him, actually just tell Tomme that too. She knows but just in case.” Gris adds, as Enjin throws an arm over his shoulders.
“Stop worrying, we do this every year and you're anxious until the moment we leave. Then when we get there I make you -”
“Shut up, don't wanna hear it” Semiu says over him, making Enjin stop talking but put a stupid face on and laughs.
Rudo is just looking between them confused. “You guys have a couple days off? Together?”
Gris shoves Enjin to the side when he opens his mouth. “Yes, it's our anniversary, so we take a trip each year just a day's drive out, spend a few days there, and then travel back.”
“Anniversary?”
“Married, Rudo.” Semiu pips up, and it clicks.
Why they are always near each other, why they are always on missions together, why Rudo saw them making out on the couch.
They aren't just friends, they are a couple… What is he and Follo then?
“Rudo are you alright?” Gris asks leaning down to put a hand on his forehead but Rudo flinches back. “Have a good anniversary!” Taking off down the hallway where he came. Not hearing the shouts of surprise from all three as he does.
He had wanted to run to his room and think about everything, but with his luck ran right into Zanka rounding a corner. Who caught his shirt and pulled him back, “Where do you think you're going?”
Rudo who wasn't ready to talk to anyone, “I, uhh, Enjin, uhhh, room.”
Zanka tsks, “Nope it's training time, Riyo and Follo are already there. Since you were late and Follo didn't know where you was. So I had to go and find you while they got started! Stop struggling!” At the reminder of Follo Rudo had started to try and wiggle out of Zanka's grasps.
It was all in vain as he got dragged outside and thrown to the ground beside his training pile of trash.
“Pick up the broom, let's see what you can do with that.” Pointing at the object its bristled bottom had been worn down with use. Missing a few here and there, but the handle had been cracked in half. It had obviously been used for years and most likely loved helping keep a house clean.
Rudo activated 3R, anima spreading from the gloves to the Broom as it elongated its handle to become the perfect height for Rudo to use. Bristles straightening and forming sharpened ends.
The broom, now black, red, and ready for use to help clean up the area one last time.
He wasn't given time to think of how it could be used in training, Zanka attacked right when he looked down at the changed form. Wacking him on the head with his Assistaff. “Don't look at it, you should know or feel how to use it. You don't have time to think in battle.”
“Turd brains!” Rudo class out swinging the broom up as Zanka flips back out of range. Thrusting the handle forward, a few bristles come unlodged from the head and shoot out towards his trainer. Who just as quickly activated Lovely and swiped the bristles away.
They go at this for a while, Zanka whacking him where he sees fit for his form, misstep, or a distraction. Which is a lot right now when Follo's black hair catches in his peripherals, or a wide swing of Alen's activated form as he tried to attack and defend against Riyo. Who is even more agile than Zanka, or when he feels the ground shake as Follo lets off a blast of gathered energy.
The back of his hand gets slammed into and the broom he had a grip on is released. Zanka kicks it to the side before it deactivates into dust. “Focus! Stop looking at your boyfriend!” Zanka yells at him, agitated that training has not been going well at all when he is in charge of Rudo full now that Enjin is gone.
Rudo freezes, mind trying to comprehend why Zanka said that. But if Rudo had been acting around Follo, like Enjin and Gris acted around each other, and they are married.
Did people assume him and Follo were going out?
Looking over, Follo and Riyo have both stopped to see what Zanka yelled about.
Did Follo think they were going out?
Snapping back at Zanka, “Shut it! Let's finish today and get done."
Rudo tried not to look Follo's way the rest of the session. Then when Zanka dismissed them, Rudo took off before anyone could say anything else.
Closing the door behind him once getting to his room. Locking it securely, and not getting 5 steps into his room when knocking on his door sounds.
Maybe if he stands really still they'll go away.
“Rudo, I know you are in there, your door is only locked when you're upset.” Follo's voice comes from the other side. Of course they followed him up to his room.
Rudo could continue to act like he wasn't in his room until Follo walked away, but that didn't sit right with him. Regto always told him he needed to talk about what he was feeling.
Walking back to unlock the door. Follo stands there all out of breath from practice but here checking to make sure Rudo was alright, like he wasn't tired himself.
“Com’n” He mutters and sits on his bed, grabbing the radio to fumble with as a distraction.
Follo sits beside him.
Rudo doesn't know what he wants to say, but also feels bad for not talking. They've always been able to hang in the same room and not talk for hours as they both focus on either fixing objects or reading, or sometimes sleep.
This feels different, like they need to talk.
“Fol-”
“Ru-”
They both pause, looking at each other. Follo gives him a reassuring smile. “You go first.”
Rudo blushes and starts sputtering, trying to figure out where to start, but from the beginning it shouldn't be bad. So that's what he does.
Explains about the first night he was just curious, and how they kept getting together to kiss. How it was because he thought Enjin and Gris were friends and Follo was the only one who wouldn't make fun of him or beat him up if he asked. How Regto said to only kiss someone you were in a relationship with, but Rudo was curious… then maybe he kept seeking Follo out for more than just kisses. His presence was nice, and when next to each other, sleep could be had.
Then how he ran into Enjin and Gris leaving for their anniversary and how they were ‘just friends’ and maybe kissing was just between couples. Rudo finishes his explanation and then asks a question. “What are we?”
Follo, who had been sitting there listening to Rudo talk, didn't even take a second to think before replying. “We are whatever you want us to be. If you want to put a label on it that's fine.” He pauses, then blushes before adding, “I wouldn't mind us being more. Have to admit, I've had a crush on you since before and was happy you came to me. Then you kept seeking me out and didn't mind it when I came around to bother you.”
That takes Rudo by surprise. Follo likes him.
Does he like Follo?
The only thing Rudo has to go off of is Chiwa, but that's not the best example thinking about it.
On another hand, he cares for Follo, more than he ever did for her. More than anyone from the ground to the sphere.
Oh.
Oh.
Maybe he does have feelings for Follo.
Something changes, Rudo feels different. All of a sudden aware of how close he and Follo are sitting together. Also aware of how much closer they could be.
His hands, still tinkering with the radio, stop. Setting it back on the table close by, turning to Follo. “I like you too.” Reaching out his gloved hands brush against Follo’s shirt, can feel them intake a breath at the statement.
Gathering cotton fabric in leather, Rudo ever so slightly pulls him close, while leaning towards him.
Looking up into brown eyes, “Can we continue what we normally do?” Follo doesn't answer back with words, but with actions. Leaning over and giving Rudo a small peck before pulling back.
That isn't enough, he wants more.
Pulling again, Follo allows himself to be pulled back as Rudo pushes up to meet him. Demanding a longer kiss between them.
Rudo lets out a hum into the kiss as Follo complies, reaching his own gloved hand out grabbing at Rudo's vest.
Pushing and pulling each other as they go back and forth. Rudo feels the room get warmer but the need to get even closer to Follo also grows. With a little shove, Follo's back hits the bed and Rudo chases him. Breathing heavily as he gets comfy on top of Follo. They'd normally end up like this, Follo on the bottom as Rudo would sit on him. Kissing for however long Follo would allow him.
Today felt different, things moved faster as Rudo swiped his tongue across Follo's lips, wanting access inside. He can tell they sweated a lot during practice as a bit of saltiness hit his taste buds. Couldn't find himself to care that they most likely stunk a bit from their intense training season. Rudo wanted Follo, wanted as much as they would give him, and more.
Follo lets out a little whine as Rudo enters his mouth, licking at the teeth, trying to get Follo's tongue into his own mouth. When that doesn't work, Rudo pulls his tongue and lips back, grabbing a part of Follo's lip in his teeth and nibbling ever so slightly.
When Follo lets out a,“Mnngg, Rudo.” His ears ring with the noises. Follo had always let out little noises while they kissed but when they weren't muffled by his own mouth it sounded so much better.
Maybe he should try other places to kiss. Placing a small kiss back on his lips before trying anything, but Follo pulls him in by his vest, keeping him in place as a tongue gets forced into his open mouth.
Letting out a groan of his own, battling against Follo inside his own mouth but not putting any effort to win, Follo is exactly where Rudo wants him.
This is usually where Follo would try and stop Rudo, calling it quits for the night. But if Rudo stays like this, not allowing either to breath in air that would lead to Follo saying those words.
Something is building inside him this time, making it so much different and better. The realization that he liked Follo… and Follo liked him back. Did that make the boyfriends, partners, each other's?
Shit that feeling that always sat at the back of Rudo's mind when they kissed that would grow but always went away when they would stop. It screamed at Rudo not to this time, to move even closer, so he did.
Realizing when he pressed down against Follo, he was hard.
Rudo pulled back to gasp at the feeling. Knowing it could happen when with someone, it's different now that it was actually happening though. Feeling Follo under him, squirming as well. Rudo looked at him, lips puffy and glistening, "You're, you're hard too " Follo gasped, answering with a thrust of his own. This. This was happening. Rudo felt it, felt Follo's dick beside his own hard and pressing into him like his own.
Embarrassed, but his body twitched shyly, wanting more. Follo was into this as much as Rudo was. Taking an experimental movement, pulling back and grinding down on Follo. The gasp they let out in sync before Rudo did it again. Chasing the pleasure.
"Rudo, fuck. Don't, don't stop.” Follo’s voice tells him, but Rudo doesn't think he could.
A hand on his back pulls him in as they connect lips again, kissing deeply. Fusing between mumbled moans as everywhere they are touching burns on the edge of too much. The hand lowers from his back to his ass pulling him forward to quicken the pace.
Not thinking, just doing as Follo asked, going faster, giving into their body's moving together. Feeling Follo thrusts up to meet his own. Can feel the heat through their pants as their bulges rub and pass along each other.
Follo groans as he pulls back, head falling back on the bed. Making Rudo follow, but Follo turns his face away. It's a deep red, eyes glossy and unfocused, breathing heavy. Makes Rudo want to go back in, eat him up, but facing away he can't get to his lips.
Leading Rudo's face next to his neck, that would have to do. Follo had told him that kisses could be placed on any part of the body, why not here as well.
Reaching down, kisses skin that was soft, Rudo could feel the breathy moaned vibrations from Follo through it. Making Rudo want more, and here and there as he breaths heavily In-between thrusts. There is that feeling building in his stomach, one that if they keep this up, feels like he's going to explode, and that sounds so good at the moment.
His mind was clouded with lust from kissing his… boyfriend? Yeah he'll ask after this. That comes after confessing, not this but Follo wasn't complaining and so Rudo wasn't either.
Following Follo, thrusting when the other did, meeting place rubbing clothed erections together. Pants feeling too tight for once.
Getting the feeling of wanting more, what more could Rudo do? But he lightly bit Follo earlier and the reaction was instant.
Opening his mouth, teeth grazing at Follo's neck, Follo loudly lets out a choking noise that pushes Rudo to bite down more before messing up their shared rhythm, chasing after an edge that he is so close to going over.
"Nnh, Rudo, not that hard." Follo slurred.
Releasing the grip on his throat, Follo refocused Rudo’s attention back on his mouth. Trying to make out but it's all teeth and tongue, uncoordinated as all Rudo can focus on is how good everything feels.
How good Follo feels underneath him.
A strangled “Follo!” escaped Rudo’s mouth as his body locks up, only twitching forward as warmth floods his pants.
Leaving Follo to hold onto him chasing his own release. Chanting Rudo’s name into his lips. Rudo doesn't take long to come down from his high, as Follo's rhythm starts to sputter. “Rudo, Rudo, good, so good, please” He whines out.
Rudo was along for the ride as he barely held himself up. Shifting up slightly and pressing his thigh down to get himself away from the over stimulation.
“Rudo!” Follo moaned at the pressure. Loud enough Rudo would have been mortified if someone could've heard them, but at the moment though, he didn't give a shit about that. If it was up to Rudo, he'd let Follo get as loud as he wanted if it was his name that kept falling from his lips.
When had he become so self centered? Was it when he realized he wanted Follo to be his?
Follo breathed hard underneath him, could feel a spot bleed though his pants against his thigh that still felt twitching underneath it.
…Follo is his right? They confessed…but Rudo didn't say anything back, just went with his feelings.
Groaning, Rudo's arms give out, crumpling onto Follo's chest. Hands not hurting at the moment but aching from being used all day with training and then holding the boy up.
Follo's arms wrap around his back, letting out a hum that made him think he would purr if he could keep it up for long. As well as feeling Follo rub his face into his hair, he was acting just like a cat right now. Completely in his own mindset after their releases.
Rudo feels so comforted that even if they didn't talk about it, he was happy. Sitting there for a minute, head buried in Follo's neck, their breathing is almost back to normal. He starts to feel dirty as the jizz in both their pants have cooled. As well as antsy, cause it was Rudo's turn to say his feelings, not just act on them as he had been doing.
Gloves twitch as his hands seek, something, out. Even if they can't feel details, leather fingers roll the edge of Follo’s shirt In-between them, stressing the seam. Follo shifts as the shirt is pulled away from him. Speaking into his ear, “Don't, it's a hand me down and doesn't need anymore help in wearing the edges down.”
Before he can pull his hand in to hide them, embarrassed, trying to stop the nervous fidgeting. A warm hand threads through the glove, squeezing his hand in theirs.
A peck on the shell of his ear makes him groan at the little attention he receives, a whisper responds to him. “Let's get up to clean off and change. Alright?” Then their free hand pats his back, asking to get up.
Rudo can't, not yet and burrows further into his neck. “Can I say something first?” It's muffled and Rudo thinks it can't be understood.
“Of course, you can say anything with me.” Replies to him, it isn't muffled or blocked. It's clear and concise. Like all communication should be
Mind made up, pushes his body up, trying not to cringe at the movement of wet gunk in his pants.
Looking down into those auburn eyes, Rudo doesn't care if his face is matching the shade of his own eyes. He has to ask, has to know before they get up.
“Be my boyfriend!”
A slight chuckle reverberates under him and Rudo almost thinks it was a laugh at him. Before Follo reaches up and kisses the tip of his nose.
Opening eyes he didn't realize were closed. Follo is flush, but smiling. Unrestrained, in the all teeth and gums way with no defined shape. “Of course”
Any anxious thought Rudo had flashed away, leaning over to rest his head on Follo's. Their smile never faltering like they knew something he didn't. Makes him want to kiss that smug expression away, meld it into one his face was making not too long ago. He felt himself twitch in his pants, unfortunately so did Follo. “No, we are getting cleaned up, changed, and then grabbing dinner. Up.” Follo once again taps his back, Rudo reluctantly gets up. A bit wobbly on the legs from all the exercise today.
They walk to the cafeteria. It feels the same. Steps that are in line with how often they walk together. Conversations about training and upcoming missions. Grabbing food before sitting at the table next to Riyo and Zanka.
Who just stares at the two.
“What are you looking at, stick for brains!” Rudo can't stand Zanka being aggravating multiple times in a day.
Zanka just lets out a loud laugh, cutting his eyes to Riyo as if it were some form of communication, then focuses on his food. Rudo focuses his gaze on Riyo who is looking at Follo, intently. Following her gaze, he sees what she… No, what they were looking at.
Follo's neck had little purple marks, even a very obvious bite mark sticking out slightly under his collar.
A slight ringing noise interrupts his thoughts. “Hello?” Zanka's voice fills the quiet table.
A slightly static voice replies, “Yo! Zanka! How's it going? Haven't killed Rudo yet have you? We just got to our place so wanted to check in before we'd actually be unreachable for a few days!”
….It's Enjin checking in. Zanka looks at Rudo.
Rudo is already across the table when he opens his mouth.
Shouts from the two sound out, Follo's own joining in as Riyo had already grabbed her plate and gotten out of the crossfire. The cafeteria becomes loud as a suspiciously loud blonde's voice yells out, “food fight!”
Then a onesie wearing Team Child member ends up on a table to launch their tray at Rudo. Who momentarily forgets Zanka to try and throw it back, misses, and hits Dear. Who is none too pleased to be dragged into the mess.
“Watch out!” A Follo like voice calls off before he is pulled back. A sludge of veggies flies past his face, looking at where it came from, Tomme is giggling but already locking in for another throw.
The older adults try to stop it, but with August hyping them up, Guita hopping from table to table getting away from Bro's grasps, and Rudo trying to get back at whoever threw a pickle at him. Follo unable to calm him down.
“I sure as well know you guys did not just do this!” Semiu calls from the doorway, successfully making everyone freeze, turning their attention towards her. “Rudo, Zanka, and August. You'll be staying to clean this up. Everyone else, get yourselves clean. We have a company meeting now planned for nine am… required attendance to keep your jobs. Dismissed.”
Rudo had never seen the room empty out so quickly, leaving the three she named and Follo alone in the room with her.
“Semiu! Thanks for keeping them in line!” Enjin's voice calls out from the blood choker on Zanka's wrist.
Semiu scowls at the device, “I ought to make you also be required to attend the meeting since it was started by your team members.”
“That doesn't surprise me, but you love me so you won't.” Enjin says, as the room goes quiet. “Right?”
“Debatable. Tell Gris I hope he has a good time and you both are on the hook for teaching your rascals safe sex practice once you're back.” Then before Enjin can say anything, turns to the ones left behind. “This better be spotless by the meeting tomorrow morning or else you'll all be put on overtime. August, you already work so much, for you, I'll dock you pay.” Then she walks out of the room, down the hall, presumably to her desk to de-stress.
A sigh comes from the collar before Enjin speaks again.“Know what I did hear enough, I'll speak to every one of you when we get back.” Then the call fizzles out.
All four look between themselves and look mainly regretful, except Zanka who can eat rocks for all Rudo cares. As he starts collecting trays to bring to the kitchen. Gloves are already a mess so he doesn't even try to avoid the food bits. Leaving the tray on the sink someone else can wash them. Goes back out to the eating area.
August is already humming and swaying as he cleans, not upset at all. With Follo close by talking to him about the song, helping him out moving tables to get underneath them properly. Leaving Zanka near the walls, wiping down areas he can reach.
They all work together for 2 hours cleaning up the mess in the cafeteria. Zanka gets increasingly cranky as his normal sleep routine time gets eaten into while he is cleaning. Follo has to stay between them and keep them both from making a new mess after rags and soapy water was thrown around before.
Finishing up, Zanka storms off, August yells that he's got a new idea while cleaning and wants to sketch it out. Leaving Follo and Rudo behind, alone again.
Rudo grumbles, looking down at the dirty food covered gloves. Even if he washed the outside the inside has absorbed some grease and bits smushed into the airy fabric. “Heading back to my room, night.” Turning to leave, but a hand on his shoulder stops him.
Turning back, Follo looks at his gloves and back up into his eyes. “Can I help?”
Pulling back surprised, Rudo almost sends him an instant reply of ‘fuck no’, only Regto has helped him with his gloves before.
But the way Follo is looking at him, pleading eyes, or really tired after everything they've done today and doesn't want to separate just yet. Throwing his head down, “...sure.” Rudo replies, turning and heading to his room.
Follo follows quietly, most people are asleep now, or keeping clear of the common areas to not run into an already annoyed Semiu. Rudo waits at his door, gesturing to his gloves, then at Follo. Oh!
Follo reaches around him and opens the door to not leave possibly food particles on it for him to grab at later. Once inside, Rudo heads to the bathroom as Follo makes sure the door closes behind him, entering the bathroom as well. Sink already running, drain clogged to collect water in the bowl. He waits for instructions, which Rudon doesn't say much, except squirms in place, worrying the wrists of his gloves but not taking them off. “You sure you're okay with seeing them?” Everyone knows about how mangled Rudo's hands are, he hasn't let just anyone see them.
Follo approaches him. Reaching out and lightly grabbing the gloved hand that was messing with a seam once again. Holding it with both his hands, unworried about what is on the outside or inside of the glove. Raises the hand up, and kisses at his bandaged arm, “Of course I'm sure. Let me help you.” as well as rubbing his thumbs in reassuring circles around the glove.
It works as Follo can feel Rudo's hands un-tense, allowing for them to be pulled, ever so slowly, off his wrapped hands. Making quick work, dipping it into the water and circling his fingers around the areas that build up grime between the last time Rudo washed these. Unclogging the sink, runs clean water over the now clean glove and sets it to drip dry. Refilling the sink and reaching over to gently remove the next glove. Repeating the process for this one as well.
Once they are up to dry, refills the sink 1 last time with warm water, grabbing a soft towel, and then gesturing to Rudo to come close. “Your hand please.” Holding his own out, wanting Rudo to set the pace.
Bandanged fingers twitch, searching, then finds the end of the wrap and Rudi unbinds both his arms. Bundling the old wrap up and placing it on the sink away from his gloves. The blacked scarred skin on display as he moves to set things up, finally stopping and carefully placing them in Follo's hands. Unable to look up at him, it breaks Follo's heart just a bit. They'd think Follo wouldn’t accept this part of him.
Rudo is wrong, any part Follo will cherish if he is allowed.
His lips find the scared skin of his inner wrist.
Rudo squirms a bit, but a quick glance shows he's flustered at the act, not trying to pull away. Picking up the wash cloth, Follo wettens it, doing his best to wring out what he can with one hand.
Working silently, Follo makes sure to clean Rudo's scars of anything that could get through the layers of protection. Draining the water one last time, pulls another towel to pat them dry.
Rudo nods satisfied, “thanks, I'll wrap them.” Pulling a bandage from a drawer, starts putting the protective layering on. Makes quick work of it since they've had to do it for all of their lives that Follo knows. Watching to see if one day Rudo will ever need him to help with even when a flare up happens.
Feeling the gloves, they are almost dry now, “let's get changed out of these clothes and go to bed. How does that sound?” Follo says heading out to grab some stuff from his drawers. Since Rudo likes oversized articles of clothing, they all fit him no problem. So finding something basic for them both. Hands Rudo his pile to change into in the privacy of the bathroom.
Coming out with the gloves on, Rudo looks up at Follo with a silent question in his eyes.
One Follo will never say no to.
A smile on his lips while they press into Rudo's.