[A/N: WHAT UP YA'LL! How're you doing!? Have you gotten taller? DAYUMMMMM, I think you have!❤️Okay, I'd just like to point out that this book ISN'T dead! I PROMISE! It's just that Freddy's, Norman's, and Pennywise's Scenarios all took FOREVER to finish - like seriously, this book is NO JOKE LMAO💓😅 Not to mention that I usually always make sure each slasher's scenario is at least 2.5k+ words💕^ - ^  Anyway, hope you enjoy reading these parts just as much as I did writing them! -Cam<3❤️]

Michael Myers:
Luckily your friends - Alice, Gracie, and Dana - had fortunately kept their word about keeping Michael's secret; Cici helping Dana buy a new cellphone, Ali deciding to visit the local farm like she wanted, and you...Well, you weren't really sure what you felt like doing over spring break this year. To be perfectly honest, after last week, you didn't know how to feel around Michael. You'd faced his jealousy and wrath before, but that...that felt almost inhuman. Like...Like some sort of coldblooded animal. Spring break...spring break...Things to do...What could you - and Michael - do together...?

—

"Michael? What are you...What are you doing!?"
"Let me go, let me go, let me go! GOD PLEASE LET ME GO!"
"What the HELL'S your problem, freak!?"
"Dana don't!" "Look, I'm not sure what Cici did - what any of us did - but whatever it was, I...I'm very sorry."
"Last chance, creep! Let her go, else I'm calling the cops!"
"Why are you doing this!?" "Why would you hurt my friends this way!? Hurt me this way!?"

"You're jealous." "You're jealous because I spent time with my friends rather than you. Because I was hanging out with them instead of hanging out with you. Because you weren't gaining enough attention from me. So, what? You decided to...to take them out...?"
"But that ISN'T right! They're my best friends! They've stuck with me through thick-and-thin, had my back since middle school - they're almost like FAMILY to me!"

I ᑕOᑌᒪᗪᑎ'T ᑕᗩᖇE ᒪEᔕᔕ ᗯᕼO TᕼEᔕE ᔕIᒪᒪY ᒪITTᒪE GIᖇᒪᔕ ᗩᖇE. YOᑌ'ᖇE ᗰIᑎE. ᗰIᑎE. ᗪO YOᑌ ᑌᑎᗪEᖇᔕTᗩᑎᗪ ᗰE? ᗪO YOᑌ? [A/N: "I COULDN'T CARE LESS WHO THESE SILLY LITTLE GIRLS ARE. YOU'RE MINE. MINE. DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME? DO YOU?"]
"Who the FUCK is this guy, (Y/n)!?"
"Why did he attack us...?"
"And w-why ME!?"

"Let me make one thing perfectly clear." "Hurt my friends even ONCE, and you and I are done. Do you understand me? We are FINISHED."
"Wait, you're dating this psychopath!?"
"Dana, hold on a second—!"
"DANA!!"
"Okay, okay, Michael wait." "How about this? If my friends can keep our secret, will you let them live? Please? I'm begging you here."

"A...As long as he leaves us alone, I won't say anything..."
"B-BUT...BUT...!" "He just—!"
"Cici."
"...Fine..."
"Dana...?"
"So let me get this straight. You're dating a...a complete and utter sociopath." "Who will kill us if we attempt to report him to the authorities...?"
"Um, yes...?"
"Are you NUTS!?" "He's a LUNATIC!!"

"Just trust me on this!" "He won't hurt you unless you try turning him in. You're fine, Dana."
"He almost strangled Cici, tossed her onto the ground like trash, broke my phone and then shoved me onto the ground too!"
"Can't you just pretend this never ever happened? Please?"
"Are you serious?"
"Just do it, Dana."
"Yeah, c'mon Dana. I...I just wanna go home..." "Y'know...alive...?"

"Ugh, fine. I promise. Happy? Can we leave in peace now, you creep?"
"You can, you can, I swear!" "I swear that you can. You're 100% safe."
"See you tomorrow then, (Y/n)..."
"C'mon Michael..." "Let's just go home."
"Hey, I thought we were going home?"
Iᖴ YOᑌ ᔕᑭEᑎᗪ ᗰOᖇE TIᗰE ᗯITᕼ TᕼEᗰ ᗩᑎᗪ ᒪEᔕᔕ TIᗰE ᗯITᕼ ᗰE, YOᑌ'ᖇE ᑎOT GOIᑎG TO ᒪIKE ᗯᕼᗩT ᕼᗩᑭᑭEᑎᔕ. [A/N: "IF YOU SPEND MORE TIME WITH THEM AND LESS TIME WITH ME, YOU'RE NOT GOING TO LIKE WHAT HAPPENS."]

—

With a sharp gasp you jolted awake, sitting straight up and running your left hand's fingers right through your hair. That was...That was just a nightmare. Besides, your friends had agreed to Michael's secret request. They were...They were safe...For now. Weren't they...? For now at least. Before you could stress-out any further, two arms curled around your waist from the side; tugging you into a certain someone's chest and cuddling you as comfortingly as possible. Michael. A softhearted smile spread across your face once you calmed down - amused by how you didn't even remember him moving from his usual stalking spot in the corner of your bedroom.

"You're up early." You dryly remarked, a tinge of mischief colouring your tone as you wrapped your arms around Michael in return. "I'd ask "How did you sleep?", but I think I already know the answer."

—

"So uh, can I get you anything to eat...?" "Wait, do you need food? Like, not to be intrusive but I haven't seen you eat in at least three days."
I ᗪOᑎ'T ᑎEEᗪ ᖴOOᗪ. Oᖇ ᗯᗩTEᖇ. Oᖇ ᗩᑎY ᕼᑌᗰᗩᑎᒪIKE ᑎEᑕEᔕᔕITIEᔕ. [A/N "I DON'T NEED FOOD. OR WATER. OR ANY HUMANLIKE NECESSITIES."]

—

Breaking apart from your hug for a brief moment, Michael picked up his notepad from the bedside table behind him; scribbling out a scrawly response before handing it over. "I ᗪOᑎ'T ᑎEEᗪ ᔕᒪEEᑭ ᒪIKE YOᑌ ᗪO. ᗷEᔕIᗪEᔕ, EᐯEᑎ Iᖴ I ᗪIᗪ, ᗯᕼY ᗯOᑌᒪᗪ I? YOᑌ'ᖇE ᗰY EᐯEᖇYTᕼIᑎG. ᗯᗩTᑕᕼIᑎG YOᑌ 24/7 Iᔕ ᒪIKE ᗩ ᗪᖇEᗩᗰ ᑕOᗰE TᖇᑌE TO ᗰE." [A/N: "I DON'T NEED SLEEP LIKE YOU DO. BESIDES, EVEN IF I DID, WHY WOULD I? YOU'RE MY EVERYTHING. WATCHING YOU 24/7 IS LIKE A DREAM COME TRUE TO ME."]

"You were in the corner of my bedroom when I last spoke to you." You brought up playfully; dropping the notepad down on your covers before placing both of your hands on either side of his shoulders. "You should at least give a girl some personal space."

Michael's gaze darkened, his love and affection fading while worry and concern took hold instead while he snatched up the notepad a second time. "YOᑌ ᗯEᖇE ᗯᖇITᕼIᑎG ᗩᑎᗪ TᗯITᑕᕼIᑎG ᗯᕼIᒪᔕT YOᑌ ᔕᒪEᑭT. I ᗯᗩᔕ ᗯOᖇᖇIEᗪ. YOᑌ ᕼᗩᗪ ᗩᑎOTᕼEᖇ ᑎIGᕼTᗰᗩᖇE, ᗪIᗪᑎ'T YOᑌ?" [A/N: "YOU WERE WRITHING AND TWITCHING WHILST YOU SLEPT. I WAS WORRIED. YOU HAD ANOTHER NIGHTMARE, DIDN'T YOU?"]

"It was nothing. Don't worry about it." You tiredly smiled, giving his shoulders a gentle squeeze whilst you tried to defuse his distress. "Everyone has nightmares, Michael. I...I was just...just..."

"ᒪOOK. I ᗪIᗪ ᗯᕼᗩT I ᗪIᗪ ᒪᗩᔕT ᗯEEK TO ᑭᖇOTEᑕT YOᑌ. TO ᑭᖇOTEᑕT ᑌᔕ. YOᑌ ᗯEᖇE ᔕᑭEᑎᗪIᑎG ᗰOᖇE TIᗰE ᗯITᕼ TᕼEᗰ Tᕼᗩᑎ ᗯITᕼ ᗰE. IT ᗯᗩᔕᑎ'T ᖴᗩIᖇ. ᔕᑌᖇEᒪY YOᑌ ᗰᑌᔕT ᖇEᗩᒪIᔕE TᕼᗩT." [A/N: "LOOK. I DID WHAT I DID LAST WEEK TO PROTECT YOU. TO PROTECT US. YOU WERE SPENDING MORE TIME WITH THEM THAN WITH ME. IT WASN'T FAIR. SURELY YOU MUST REALISE THAT."]

"Michael..." You sighed unhappily, shaking your head as you pushed his hand holding the notepad down. "All I did was spend time with my friends after school at a local cafe. You took it way too far. Anyway, I'm going to get dressed now, so if you could just—"

Before you could finish, Michael gripped your right wrist and stopped you from swinging your legs around the side of the bed, the stalker clearly not wanting you to get up. "Look, I'm only getting dressed. It's not like I'm going to school or anything. It's spring break. I just want you to turn around, that's all. Alright...?" You sternly ordered, breaking free of his grasp and attempting to act assertive.

Thankfully, Michael - although unwillingly - listened to your request; slowly letting you go and allowing you to get changed. He got up from the other side of the bed, hovering over you from behind while he faced the opposite side of the room. Used to his possessive personality, you simply rolled your eyes and slipped on a pair of denim jeans; picking out a black shirt before brushing your hair and using some deodorant to finish getting ready. Then, as soon as you were done, the silent male spun back around, dragging you into a loving embrace almost immediately. But you didn't grow annoyed - or aggravated - by his clingy behaviour. Far from it in fact.

"Well, I know you don't get hungry, but I do. So if you'll excuse me, I'm going to make some breakfast now." You decided lightly, returning his hug for a moment or two before pulling away and moving towards your bedroom's door. You usually spent spring break alone; due to mostly Miles passed out half-the-time on the sofa these last few years, your deceased mother not around anymore, and your father currently working overseas.

But now...now what...? Michael was always by your side, soothing you...supporting you...staying with you...It felt strange. Not a bad strange, however, but an oddly comforting strange. Pushing said thoughts to the back of your mind, you focused on heading downstairs into the kitchen; your stomach rumbling whilst you concentrated on creating breakfast. So you did, making a simple - yet yummy - meal and speaking to Michael like you always did. Once you'd eaten, you washed the dishes and stifled another yawn - still feeling slightly sleepy as you continued waking up. After the dishes, you started on the other household chores, Michael keeping you company and occasionally helping whenever you needed him to.

"Hmm...We've washed the dishes...cleaned the kitchen tiles...vacuumed the carpets and floors...Now all that's left is to—" You stopped for couple of minutes, your eyes widening at Michael's outfit. His boiler suit. How could you not notice...!? You were about to do the laundry, but how could you let Michael keep wearing...wearing that...!? Sure, it didn't reek or anything - but the dirt, the-the blood, the...the filth. You couldn't let him keep wearing such an unclean outfit.

"Michael...?" You quietly called, causing the mute killer to tilt his head and behave cute. "How long have you been wearing that...?" Your sudden question made Michael shrug carelessly; the slasher thinking back to when he murdered said mechanic and switched from his hospital robes into this.

"I ᗪOᑎ'T KᑎOᗯ. I ᑕᗩᑎ'T ᖇEᗰEᗰᗷEᖇ. ᗩ ᗯᕼIᒪE? ᗯᕼY ᗪO YOᑌ ᗩᔕK?" [A/N: "I DON'T KNOW. I CAN'T REMEMBER. A WHILE? WHY DO YOU ASK?"] Michael replied emotionlessly, his messy handwriting being only just readable.

"Because...Because...Whatever it is that you're wearing, could easily be infected." You worriedly noted; your kindhearted instincts kicking in while you started collecting clothes from around the house. "It...It's unsafe for you to be in at the moment."

"ᔕO? IT'ᔕ ᑎOT ᒪIKE I'ᗰ GOIᑎG TO ᗪIE ᗩᑎYTIᗰE ᔕOOᑎ." [A/N: "SO? IT'S NOT LIKE I'M GOING TO DIE ANYTIME SOON."] Your partner wrote down, his dark-brown eyes staring intently into your own.

"Still...! That's...That's NOT the point...! You need to change clothes...!" You exclaimed wildly, your anxiety rising after you'd picked up everything to wash. "NOW."

"Oᕼ? ᗩᑎᗪ ᒍᑌᔕT ᗯᕼᗩT E᙭ᗩᑕTᒪY ᗩᗰ I ᔕᑌᑭᑭOᔕEᗪ TO ᑕᕼᗩᑎGE IᑎTO?" [A/N: "OH? AND JUST WHAT EXACTLY AM I SUPPOSED TO CHANGE INTO?"] Michael's next message made you freeze for a few seconds; his gaze now gleaming with dark amusement as you internally hesitated.

"I...I'll be right back. I've just got to shove these clothes into the washing machine, and then I'm sure I can find something for you to wear." Stammering slightly, you hurried towards the small laundry room and forced everything inside the machine; flicking it on before spinning back round to face Michael.

"Hmm...What to change you into..." You uneasily mused, your heartbeat bouncing out of control once the silent male held you by your waist. "You can't change into my clothes...And my father's still working late overseas...So that just leaves—" With a surprised look, your eyes grew wider; not expecting yourself to come to a certain conclusion.

"That just leaves Miles's clothes..." You nervously announced, placing your hands against his waist in return and wondering if that was the right thing to do. Would he be alright with this...? After all, it was only a shirt, a pair of jeans, and some underwear, wasn't it? It...It's not like Michael was staying in them indefinitely or anything...!

"C-C'mon...!" With a timid stutter, you grasped his wrist and tugged him into your brother's bedroom, forcing him to stand in the middle of the room while you searched Miles's drawers. "Here. I know they're not stylish or fashionable, but they'll do for this evening. So...please. Don't be difficult. Just, um...change into these. M'kay...?"

Praying that Michael would agree, you laid Miles's clothes onto his bed and clasped your hands together; flashing him a pleading glance before he began writing again. "ᗯᕼY ᗩᖇE YOᑌ ᔕO IᑎTEᑎT Oᑎ ᗰE GETTIᑎG ᑕᕼᗩᑎGEᗪ?" [A/N: "WHY ARE YOU SO INTENT ON ME GETTING CHANGED?"]

"I told you before...!" You stubbornly retorted, attempting to keep your calm and composure under control. "You can't stay in something like that at the moment. It's...It's contaminated. I swear, I'll return your outfit as soon as it's gotten washed. I...I promise."

Hiding a secret smile, the killer dipped his head as a nod and decided to agree; scribbling one last thing down whilst you desperately held your breath. "ᖴIᑎE. Iᖴ IT'ᒪᒪ ᗰᗩKE YOᑌ ᕼᗩᑭᑭY, I'ᒪᒪ GET ᑕᕼᗩᑎGEᗪ. ᗯᗩᑎT ᗰE TO ᗪO IT ᖇIGᕼT ᑎOᗯ? YOᑌ'ᖇE ᖴᖇEE TO ᗯᗩTᑕᕼ<3" [A/N: "FINE. IF IT'LL MAKE YOU HAPPY, I'LL GET CHANGED. WANT ME TO DO IT RIGHT NOW? YOU'RE FREE TO WATCH<3"]

"W-Wait, W-WHAT!?" You shrieked in surprise; your face blushing bright burgundy after your boyfriend had behaved so flirtatiously. "YOU...want ME...to watch...YOU...get DRESSED...!?" Tilting his head to the side again, Michael shrugged a second time, a seductive gleam glimmering across his gaze while you fiercely shoved him away. "Y-Y-YOU PERVERT...!"

"OKᗩY. OKᗩY. I ᗯᗩᔕ ᒍᑌᔕT ᒍOKIᑎG. ᗷᑌT YOᑌᖇ ᖇEᗩᑕTIOᑎᔕ ᗩᖇE ᒍᑌᔕT ᖴᗩᖇ TOO ᖴᑌᑎᑎY ᔕOᗰETIᗰEᔕ. GOᗪ YOᑌ'ᖇE ᔕO ᑕᑌTE. I ᒪOᐯE YOᑌ<3" [A/N: "OKAY. OKAY. I WAS JUST JOKING. BUT YOUR REACTIONS ARE JUST FAR TOO FUNNY SOMETIMES. GOD YOU'RE SO CUTE. I LOVE YOU<3"] Trying to redeem himself, Michael snatched up his notepad and swiftly responded, his teasing words making you roll your eyes and raise your eyebrows afterwards.

"Honestly." You huffed, turning around and folding your arms. "I'd say you're going to be the death of me, but I think I already know that. So just...just go and change clothes already...!" You didn't even wait for a reply, standing still with a stern stance and false firmness.

It's not that you didn't find Michael attractive, or cute, but...but for some reason, whenever the two of you became intimate, you suddenly felt so...so bashful. His tight hugs...his passionate kisses...it was like your life beforehand had fluttered away. Disintegrated into nothing but...nothing but dust. Hanging out with Cici, Alice and Dana used to be fun, sure, but Michael...Michael was truly something else. He was so helpful...loving...romantic...mischievous...You couldn't even stay mad at him after he'd written down an apology. Well, as long as they were relatively sincere.

After a few minutes, Michael placed his hand affectionately on your shoulder from behind - indicating that he was ready - and then delicately twirled you around; his handsome and good-looking appearance stunning you into absolute silence. He...He... "Michael, you...you look so...so..." You didn't even know what to say, your eyes filled to the brim with fondness and admiration. "You look so lovely. Really. I'm surprised you don't switch clothes more often. Then again, I suppose it's probably rather difficult to find them in your case..."

Sending him a soft smile, you shared an inside joke between him and yourself; telling him to wait in your room whilst you took his boiler suit and headed back into the laundry room. Thank goodness there were two washing machines; one for regular clothes, and one for clothes that needed to be washed separately. Though still, his boiler suit would need at least a full day - or maybe two - to become disinfected and unstained again. Not to mention you scrubbing and squeezing all the dirt off. But that didn't matter to you. After all, you'd cleaned clothes before. So you decided to keep Michael in Miles's clothes for the time being - taking no notice of your older brother and his displeasure as you patiently waited.

But then, once you'd hung his boiler suit out to dry a couple of days later; you felt strangely proud of how clean you'd made Michael's outfit, happy at how fresh the boiler suit had become due to the sun's tender warmth. It looked like such comfortable and cute costume to wear...without all those stains and smudges, your partner's attire had undeniably sparked your interest. Perhaps you should try it on...y'know, to make sure it was 100% dry and everything...? He wouldn't mind, would he...? Glancing around to make sure he wasn't near you or anything; you quickly took the dry clothes down, dumped them into the washing basket and then did what you wanted, taking off your clothes before deciding to try his boiler suit on regardless.

And, oh, just how comfortable Michael's boiler suit genuinely was, a few giggles slipping through your lips as you snuggled cutely into the quiet slasher's clothing. It wasn't too loose, nor was it too tight. The one-piece garment hugged your body just right...! Okay, maybe Michael's outfit was a tad bit baggy on you, but at least you could see why the mute male wore it most of the time. And now that you'd washed said boiler suit, he'd probably be even more grateful...Wouldn't he...? Speaking of which— You froze, fearful of where Michael actually was. He loved staying by your side, whether you were doing household chores, finishing off homework, etcetera etcetera.

So where on Earth...? Internally panicking, you heard the well-known heavy breathing and carefully turned around; your anxiety increasing as Michael simply stood there, not saying - or scribbling down - a single word. "M...Michael...! I was just...I was just..." Stammering like a day or two ago, you cuddled into his boiler suit and tried to remain calm, wondering what the Hell to say. "I, uh, was just making sure that it was completely and utterly dry! That's all! I was just making sure that I'd washed it properly, y-y'know...?"

Minutes ticked by like mere seconds whilst your humiliation blossomed; your mortification and full-on shame uneasily developing. "I...I'm sorry..." You shyly whispered, tears pricking at the edge of your eyes while you attempted to explain yourself. "I, um, I really didn't mean to...I mean, I know this belongs to you and all...I was just so...just so...curious. So—"

All of a sudden Michael cradled the right side of your face roughly; lifting his pale-white mask up a little with his left hand as he pressed his lips lustfully against yours, the slasher's obsession towards you spiralling outrageously out-of-control whilst your heartbeat absolutely thrashed. And why was that? Because after his alluring actions, the psychopathic killer finally scribbled something down - his last message stunning you into sheer, total delight.

"ᗪOᑎ'T ᗷE ᔕOᖇᖇY. EᐯEᖇ. YOᑌ ᒪOOK ᗩᗷᔕOᒪᑌTEᒪY ᗩᗰᗩᘔIᑎG. YOᑌ ᑕᗩᑎ ᗯEᗩᖇ TᕼᗩT ᗩᑎYᗪᗩY Oᖇ EᐯEᖇYᗪᗩY. ᗩᑎᗪ ᒍᑌᔕT ᗯᕼEᑎ I TᕼOᑌGᕼT YOᑌ ᑕOᑌᒪᗪᑎ'T GET ᗩᑎYᗰOᖇE ᗩᗪOᖇᗩᗷᒪE TOO<3" [A/N: "DON'T BE SORRY. EVER. YOU LOOK ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. YOU CAN WEAR THAT ANYDAY OR EVERYDAY. AND JUST WHEN I THOUGHT YOU COULDN'T GET ANYMORE ADORABLE TOO<3"]

Jason Voorhees:
Snuggling into Jason with both of your arms, you carried on sleeping; cuddling next to your partner and resting your head contentedly against his arm. Sure, those twisted trespassers sometimes got in the way of your time together, but Jason took care of them straightaway. So in the end, there wasn't really anything much to worry about. You were perfectly happy with the lifestyle and relationship you currently had with your loving boyfriend. The only thing you probably wished for was to spend a little more time with him - considering that most of the days he had to protect the lake from either the police, people, or keep it safe from anything in particular. But that just made you cherish the time you and him spent together even more. Especially when you two fell asleep together like this.

...Poke.
"Mmm..." You mumbled drowsily, nestling closer to Jason and continuing to curl your arms around his right one. "...Too...early..."

...Poke.
"Just lemme sleep a little longer..." You sleepily sighed; ignoring a third playful poke and feeling a warm glow of happiness wash through your veins.

"C-uh...C-uh...'mon..." A familiar voice cooed fondly, grasping your shoulder before giving it a soft shake. "I...It's-uh...m-uh...orn...ing-uh..." [A/N: "C...C'mon..." "I...It's morning..."]

"Well, yeah, but I...I'm still sleepy..." You childishly complained; now hugging your arms around his entire body instead of just his right arm. "Plus, you're warm...Soooo~"

"T...T-uh...oo...cu...te..." Jason replied in amusement, using his left hand to cradle the right side of your face whilst his heart melted at your adorable antics. "Y-uh...ou...are...ju...st-uh...t-uh...oo, T-UH...OO...cu...te...s-uh...ome...t-uh...ime...s-uh..." [A/N: "T...Too...cute..." "You are just...too, TOO cute sometimes..."]

"I don't know about that." You laughed with a lighthearted attitude; finally waking up once you'd pulled your arms back and pushed yourself up. "I think I'm more of a lazybones, to be perfectly honest."

"C...Cu...tie...Pie...Cu...tie...Pie...!" The masked male happily chanted, clapping his hands together as he watched you rub the sleep out of your eyes and swing your legs around the side of the bed. [A/N: "Cutie...Pie...Cutie...Pie...!"]

"Alright, alright." You smiled after he bounded over to your side of the bed and engulfed you into an endearing embrace. "I'm glad you think that way. Good morning, Jason."

"G-uh...G-uh...ood-uh...m-uh...orn...ing-uh...(Y...Y/n)...!" Jason repeated with a joyful tone, his hug being strongly sweet while you hugged him in return. "I...I ho...pe...y-uh...ou...sle...pt-uh...w-uh...ell...!" [A/N: "G...Good morning (Y/n)...!" "I...I hope...you slept well...!"]

"Of course I did, what with you by my side and everything." You cheerily commented; resting your head against his chest for a couple of seconds before moving away and standing up completely to stretch. "You always bring about good dreams, Jay."

Your kindhearted response caused Jason to become tremendously thrilled, his eyes glistening with proud delight as he watched you move over to the bedroom door and open it. "R-uh...Re...al...ly...? D-uh...o...I...r-uh...eal...ly...?" [A/N: "R...Really...? Do I...really...?"]

"Really." You answered truthfully, holding his hand with your spare one before you both walked towards the kitchen. "So don't ever doubt yourself, m'kay?"

"Th...Than...k-uh...y-uh...ou...Than...k-uh...y-uh...ou..." He thanked with genuine gratitude, clasping one hand against his chest while he followed you. "Y-uh...ou're...alw-uh...ay...s-uh...s-uh...oh...n-uh...ice...to...m-uh...e..." [A/N: "Th...Thank you...Thank you..." "You're always...so nice...to me..."]

"Just speakin' the truth." You told Jason tenderly, sending your partner yet another smile and indicating for the childminded slasher to take a seat. "So then, what would you like for breakfast today, Jay...?"

As the minutes carefully ticked by, the friendly killer fiercely thought hard; treating your casual question as though it was some sort of life-or-death situation, what with the way he was reacting. "I...I C-UH...AN'T-UH...d-u...eci...de...!" He growled in frustration, slamming his fist onto the kitchen table and sounding relatively upset. [A/N: "I...I CAN'T...decide...!"]

"Hey, hey, hey...Easy now, easy now." You soothingly spoke, trying your best to sound sympathetic and calming at the very same time. "Hmm...How about we make a game out of it...?"

"A...A g-uh...ame...ou...t-uh...of-uh...it-uh...?" Jason echoed curiously, his fury fading as he tilted his head and suddenly became intrigued. [A/N: "A...A game...out...of it...?"]

"Yeah! It'll be fun, I promise! Not to mention it'll help you decide what you'd like us to eat this morning." You affectionately announced, patting his shoulder and feeling relieved when he relaxed his stiff stance. "Now just wait here for a moment while I go and get the things needed for said game, alright?"

"G-uh...ame...! G-uh...ame...! W-uh...e're...g-uh...oi...ng-uh...to...pl...ay-uh...a g-uh...ame...!" He exclaimed excitedly, his aggravation vanishing as you gave him a little wave and left the room. [A/N: "Game...! Game...! We're going to...play...a game...!"]

Internally Aww-ing at Jason's past cuteness, you walked into the living room part of the cabin and picked up a piece of paper, deciding to grab a black pen as well. Then, when you'd moved back into the kitchen, you cleared your throat and sat down opposite him - ready to share your idea. "Alright, are you ready to play...? The game I mean...?"

"H...H-uh...ow...do...y-uh...ou...pl...ay-uh...?" Jason asked with a puzzled gaze, tilting his head at your question and sounding confused. [A/N: "How...do you play...?"]

"Don't worry, it's really quite simple!" You remarked merrily; setting the A4 paper on the kitchen table so you could scribble three different recipes. "So please, allow me to explain. I'm going to tear these breakfast ideas into three separate pieces of paper. Then, I'll flip them over and shuffle them."

"Y-uh...ou...'re...g-uh...oin...g-uh...to...shu...ffle...th...em-uh...?" He gleefully wondered, forgetting about his previous temper tantrum and growing excited again. [A/N: "You're...going to...shuffle them...?"]

"Uh-huh...!" You kindly declared, ripping the paper before turning them over. "I figured that this would be much easier. All you have to do now is select a random piece, and then bam...! The game will pick for you...!"

"Th-uh...e...g-uh...ame...w-uh...ill...p-uh...ick-uh...f-uh...or-uh...me...?" Jason inquired slowly, looking down at the three pieces after you'd shuffled them. [A/N: "The game...will pick...for me...?"]

"Mmhm...! So whenever you're ready, just pick up one of the options and turn it over...! Oh, and don't worry, I promise whatever you pick I'll be able to prepare for breakfast." You vowed loyally, giving him another gentle smile while you waited for his decision.

"Mmm...M-uh...ay...be...th-uh...is-uh...one...?" The masked male answered in an awkward manner, holding it up as he glanced to the side uncertainly. [A/N: "Mmm...Maybe...this one...?"]

Holding your hand around Jason's, you gave it a sweet squeeze before twirling his fingers around; seeing the option that he'd ended up randomly choosing and feeling pleased with the result. "Oooh, pancakes...! What a delicious idea...! Do you like them...? Is that what you want to eat this morning...?"

"I...I...l-uh...ove...th-uh...em-uh...!" Jason brightly bursted out, his eyes glowing with warmth whilst he behaved extremely enthusiastic. "M...Mom...my-uh...use...d-uh...to...m-uh...ake...th-uh...em-uh...! T...Th-uh...ey-uh...w-uh...ere...my-uh...fav...our-uh...ite...t-uh...ty...pe...of-uh...brea...k-uh...fa...st-uh...!" [A/N: "I...I love them...! M...Mommy used to make them...! They...were my...favourite...type...of breakfast...!"]

"Glad to hear it...!" You said in relief, collecting the pieces and placing them in the recycling bin before turning around to face the kitchen counter. "They're pretty easy to make, so just give me a few minutes to find the ingredients, and then I'll—"

You were about to begin cooking breakfast when Jason wrapped his arms around your waist from behind; the killer yanking you into his chest and hugging you with the utmost of love. His adoring hold was almost too much to bear, both of you standing still for a couple of minutes and enjoying the moment. But eventually you had to start making the pancakes, you opening cupboards and such while Jason stayed by your side the entire time. Though you didn't mind. In fact, you found it pretty cute, considering you'd never had someone care about you this much. As time flew past, you stirred the pancake batter together and served them just right; stacking them on two plates for both you and Jason.

And eating breakfast together was wonderful too, Jason striking up childlike conversations and wanting to learn everything about you; from your favourite colour, your favourite animal, your favourite food, your favourite drink all the way down to your favourite game, favourite flower, and favourite season altogether. His questions made you laugh a little, the atmosphere between you two glowing with lightness as you jokingly answered them. However, whilst you replied, your partner sharply stood up - cutting your time short and stiffening up. With a sigh, you finished your food and stood up with him, knowing what was about to go down.

"Another trespasser...?" You quietly theorised, hiding your disappointment as you tucked a strand of stray hair behind your ear.

He coldly dipped his head, silently agreeing before snatching up his machete from the side of his wooden chair and gripping it with force. "Mm...hm..." Jason growled under his breath, his eyes glaring hatefully while he attempted to keep his anger under control. "Ha...ve...to...g-uh...oh...N-uh...ot-uh...sa...fe...f-uh...or...y-uh...ou..." [A/N: "Mmhm...Have...to go...Not safe...for you..."]

"I understand." Sighing, you tried to smile like earlier and curled your arms around him, trying to give the Crystal Lake Killer some form of comfort and calm him down. "Just...Just remember to stay safe. 'Kay...? For me...? I worry about you, y'know."

Your words stopped his fury for a few moments once he'd heard that; Jason's gaze glistening with warmth and appreciating your plea straight afterwards. "I...kn...ow-uh...An...d-uh...I w-uh...ill...B-uh...Becau...se...I l-uh...ove...y-uh...ou..." He promised passionately, cuddling into you as strongly as he could. [A/N: "I know...And...I will...B-Because...I love you..."]

"I love you too." Before you could say anything else, Jason clutched his machete and stormed out the front door; leaving you to your own devices whilst you cleared up the kitchen table.

Well, guess even more trespassers had messed-up your time between you and Jason...again. Disappointment danced through your thoughts, loneliness pricking your heart like thorns would to a rose. Shaking your head, you took a deep breath and focused on finishing the dishes, pushing your negative feelings to the side and instead deciding to just redo your past activities. Okay, they might be repetitive and uninteresting - but hey, at least they filled the time until your partner returned home. So that's what you did, first by pulling a book down from the bookshelf and then flopping on top of the sofa. After you'd read the entire story, you carefully placed the novel back on the shelf - noticing that it was only early afternoon.

Suppose this just meant more time to yourself. No matter. With a small stretch, you found your sketchbook and flipped to a new page, realising that fairly soon - you'd run out of space to draw. Oh...Well that was alright...! You could probably solve your dilemma by checking the other cabins in the future with Jason anyway - to see what new things were lying around. But for now, you just ignored the issue at hand and kept on sketching, not wanting to think about how alone you felt. Another hour or two passed, and then you tiredly glanced up, noticing that it was midday - or to put it frankly, time for lunch. Hopefully Jason was doing alright. You weren't worried or anything - considering this was natural - but it didn't stop you from gradually feeling more and more alone.

Opening one of the kitchen cupboards; you took out a couple of sandwiches you'd collected from the previous trespassers and added an apple, grabbing a cereal bar to complete your plate. Yeah, it wasn't the most elegant of meals, but it fulfilled your hunger and stopped you from starvation. Though what to do now...Looking around, you spotted a cookbook - one you'd currently used in the past to create food for Jason when he'd returned home safely. That's it...! You could make something for him...! Flicking through it again, you promptly found another recipe, something he was bound to enjoy. Chocolate brownies...! Cheering up, you began to follow the dessert's steps - finding the ingredients via the kitchen's cupboards and shelves.

Once you'd finished stirring everything together, you completed the sweet dish and slid the tray into the oven, now waiting for the brownies to bake while you became impatient. Late afternoon...Early evening...What now...? After you'd washed your hands, you shifted your attention on cleaning-slash-tidying up the cabin you and Jason both shared, figuring that it would at least pass some more time. And it did - making you feel proud at how uncluttered and neat everything appeared. You still felt sad though, thinking back to how long your loving partner had been gone. But...But no worries...! You had to get dressed and prepare for dinner anyways, not to mention the brownies were probably ready by now.

Sorrowfully humming, you cautiously took the brownies out; inhaling the chocolatey scent and taking a bite out of one of them as soon as they'd all cooled down. Mmm...Yep, definitely delicious...! Jason was sure to enjoy them when he got back. So after leaving them on the kitchen counter, you headed into the bedroom for a split moment - wondering what to wear for this evening. To be perfectly honest, it's not like you had to get dressed - considering the day was almost over - but regardless, it felt right. What to wear though...? Shuffling through your wardrobe, you wearily sighed, realising that you'd worn most of the clothes in there and grown rather tired of said outfits.

A few minutes flew past until an idea suddenly struck your mind; a happy-go-lucky smile spreading across your face as you spun around and opened one of Jason's drawers. More specifically his shirt drawer. He wouldn't mind if you got dressed in one of his navy-blue shirts, now would he...? And it was such a hot summer day too...So with a playful glimmer in your eye, you decided to borrow it; slipping into the short-sleeved shirt, pulling on some knee-length shorts, brushing your (h/c) hair, and then using some deodorant. There...At least you were fully dressed and not in pyjamas. Now all that was left to do was to prepare dinner and patiently wait for your boyfriend's return.

You ended up going with easy-to-make noodles in a tasty sauce; making more than enough for you and Jason while you silently thought things over. Eating inside was pretty dull...But what if you ate outside...? After all, it was summer, and the beautiful nature surrounding you would - without a doubt - cheer you up...! Hmm...Eating outside...You could plan a picnic and sit outside on a picnic blanket...! Though if Jason was to return and you weren't there, he'd freak out for sure...No problem, you could always just leave a note on the front door, explaining you were in the garden. So, feeling adequately cheerful, you speedily wrote down a message and sellotaped it to the front door - hurrying back inside before any of the trespassers could spot you. You didn't want a repeat of the last few times you'd been assaulted.

Pushing those memories to the back of your mind, you grabbed the picnic blanket and shoved it under your arm; picking up the food and brownies before you exited through the cabin's backdoor. Finally...A relaxing time outside. And to your relief, you did - from setting down the picnic blanket, all the way down to enjoying your early dinner. You even munched on a couple of the chocolate brownies; your hunger fading whilst you took in the gorgeous sights around you. The sweet-scented flowers...The multiple shades of green...The light-blue lake glistening in the distance...You could see why Jason fought so hard to defend Camp Crystal Lake.

As the hour fluttered by however, you unexpectedly jumped; forgetting that Jason would shout your name in panic-stricken rage. Guess he didn't take the note too well... "Back here...!" You called pleasantly, cupping your hands around your mouth in order to project your voice and pacify his angry attitude.

"WH...WHA...T'S-UH...the...m-uh...ean...ing-uh...of...TH...IS-UH...!?" The killer snapped in frustration, stomping around the side of the cabin before holding up your note. [A/N: "WH...WHAT'S the meaning...of THIS...!?"]

"What's the meaning of what...?" You innocently quizzed, patting the spare space besides you and indicating for him to sit down.

"TH...TH-UH...IS-UH...!" Jason snarled darkly, thrusting the piece of paper directly in front of your face. "Y...Y-uh...ou...c-uh...an't-uh...ju...st-uh...g-uh...oh...run...ni...ng-uh...off-uh...l-uh...ike...tha...t-uh...(Y...Y/n)...! It's-uh...d-uh...ang...er-uh...ous-uh...out-uh...he...re...an...d-uh—!" [A/N: "TH...THIS...!" "Y...You can't just go running off like that, (Y...Y/n)...! It's dangerous out here...and—!"]

"I know, but—"
"Y...Y-uh...ou...re...memb...er-uh...l-uh...ast-uh...t-uh...ime...?" [A/N: "Y...You remember last time...?"]
"Well...yeah, but I—"
"S-uh...oh...why-uh...put-uh...your...self-uh...in...d-uh...ang...er-uh...ah...gain-uh...?" [A/N: "So why put yourself in danger again...?"]

"Well, I...I guess I just got a little bored staying inside today..." You sadly admitted, tears pricking at the side of your eyelashes after you saw how irritated he was. "All I wanted to do was eat dinner outside this evening...So please don't be mad...I just miss you more and more...Especially when you're gone for long periods of time..."

The slasher's gaze suddenly softened; your words causing him to remember when he used to feel the same way between himself and his mother. "I...I'm-uh...so...rry-uh..." He apologised with a regretful look, plainly feeling guilty about his unforeseen outburst. "I...di...dn't-uh...me...an-uh...to...ma...ke...y-uh...ou...f-uh...eel...b-uh...ad-uh...I...I...j-uh...st-uh...w-uh...orry-uh...ab-uh...out-uh...y-uh...ou...s-uh...ome...t-uh...imes..." [A/N: "I...I'm sorry..." "I didn't mean...to make you feel bad...I...I just worry about you...sometimes..."]

"I made you some brownies." You shyly offered him, holding the plate out whilst he sat down next to you and relaxed. "I thought they might help you unwind...Y'know, after all your hard work and everything..."

"Th...Tha...nk-uh...y-uh...ou..." With a warm voice, Jason picked one up and slid it under his hockey mask; enjoying said dessert almost immediately as you both cheered up. "Th...Tha...nk-uh...y-uh...ou...so...m-uh...ch...! Th-uh...ey...'re...ab...so...lute...ly-uh...d-uh...eli...ci...ous-uh...!" [A/N: "Th...Thank you..." "Th...Thank you so much...! They're absolutely delicious...!"]

"It was nothing, really..." You responded shyly, taking a bite of your own brownie and feeling happy. "I'm glad you like them. Oh, and I hope you don't mind, but I kind of borrowed one of your shirts..."

Your reply caused Jason to look up in surprise, his stunned stare making you feel like you'd done something wrong. Maybe you shouldn't have tried it on...? Was he mad at you after all...? "I'm sorry...I probably should've waited for your permission...I was just growing pretty tired of my shirts, and I thought your shirts looked cuter than mine, and I just—"

Before you could say anything else, the Crystal Lake Killer flung his arms around your body and brought you into an overly-obsessive bear hug; his gaze gleaming with love while he rested his head atop of yours for a couple of quiet minutes. Then— "Y-uh...ou..c-uh...an-uh...we...ar-uh...any...thin...g-uh...of...m-uh...ine...Any-uh...time...y-uh...ou...li...ke..." Jason remarked kindheartedly, sounding as though he was proud of your past actions and what you were now wearing. "Y...Y-uh...ou...loo...k-uh...su...per-uh...du...per-uh...cu...te...! I l-uh...ove...s-uh...eei...ng-uh...y-uh...ou...in...it...!" [A/N: "You can wear...anything...of mine...Anytime you like...!" "Y...You look super-duper cute...! I love seeing you...in it...!"]

"Really...?"
"R-uh...Rea...lly-uh..." [A/N: "R...Really..."]

Freddy Krueger:
"Wha-huh-!? You're going out...!? Where to...!?" Sara exclaimed with a stunned expression, surprise shooting across her face like lightning after you attempted to shut your bedroom door to change clothes. "You never go out...!"

"No need to rub it in or anything, Ra~Ra~" You sarcastically spoke, rolling your eyes before throwing her a soft shake of your head. "If you must know, some girls from my class invited me to hang-out at Lily-Rose Lounge tonight - so the three new girls could get to know us all better. It's nothing more than making friends with each another."

"Oh, so it's like a girl's night out?" Sara summed up cheerfully, clapping her hands together and becoming happy on your behalf while you relented slamming the door in her face. "If so, can I come!? I mean, I am a girl, and it's almost nighttime, y'know...?"

"Sorry, Ra~Ra~" Sending her a sorrowful smile, you shook your head again and denied her plea - coming up with an excuse straight on the spot. "It's...It's for our class only."

"Are you serious!?" Sara complained like a child, crossing her arms and flicking her head to the side whilst you ruffled her hair. "You...You gotta be kidding me...!"

"I'll only be gone for a couple of hours." You brought up irritably, internally groaning due to remembering how a specific dream demon had reacted half-an-hour earlier. "You don't have to make such a big deal out of this. This is just because you didn't pay attention at school, and you don't understood most of your homework again, isn't it...?"

"N-No...! Th...That isn't it...!" Protesting, Sara looked defeated and so you smirked, curling your arms around your younger sister and trying to soften the situation up.

"How about this," Pausing for a moment, you mulled over your thoughts, wanting to help her out and keep her happy at the very same time. "Once I call Brittany and tell her about my plans, I'll ask her to help you with your problems too. M'kay...?"

"You'd do that...?" Sara brightened up and smiled in return, flinging her arms around you and growing increasingly happier seconds later. "Really...?"

"Mmhm! I'm positive Brittany will help you out after she's all done and dusted with her work." Glossing over the truth slightly, you threw her another smile before whipping out your phone; deciding to give your older sister a call and see what she'd honestly say.

"What's up, (Y/n)? Something on your mind?" Brittany's voice greeted you through the phone warmly, her pleasant tone calming you down and giving you that sense of composure.

"Hey there, Brit." You replied in a friendly fashion, holding your phone next to your ear as you smiled to yourself and Sara. "I was just wondering if you could come home early tonight and watch Sara. Not to mention she sorta needs help over her homework...again. Would that be somewhat possible...?"

"Did something happen...!? Is something wrong...!?" Brittany worried over you both protectively - her pleasantries crumbling like a tray of cookies while she began to panic.

"No, no, no, nothing like that..." You swiftly reassured her, not knowing how to explain and get Brittany to look after Sara for you. "Really...it's nothing like that...It's just, a group of girls from my class invited me out tonight, and I'd really like to go. It's at Lily-Rose Lounge, at 7:30pm. So, not too far from here. Not to mention I'll be back by 10pm. Is...Is that alright...? Is that okay with you...?"

"Mm...I guess I can switch my work hours this evening." Brittany mused thoughtfully, sounding unusually mature and dependable. "What time did you say you were leaving again...?"

"Seven-thirty." You repeated lightly, leaning against your bedroom's doorframe as you toyed with a few stray strands of your hair. "Does that work...? I could always cancel if it doesn't—"

"Don't be silly...! You shouldn't cancel JUST because of me...!" With an immense amount of consideration and compassion, Brittany cut you off - her response making your heart melt and brightening your entire evening. "After all you've done for me already, you deserve a little time to yourself. Wouldn't you agree...?"

"Ahaha, true. I guess you do have somewhat of a point there." Laughing a little, you made Brittany laugh too, both of you agreeing on a time for your older sister to arrive and even drop you off. However, you could tell your obsessive boyfriend wasn't happy.

But there was absolutely nothing the dream demon could do about it - from threatening you, all the way down to bribing you. "What the FUCK will it take, huh bitch?" Freddy snapped once Sara had left the living room and you'd gotten ready to go. "What the Hell do you want...!?"

"I don't take bribes, Freddy." You sternly sighed, flicking your hair back before moving back into your house's hallway. "I'm going to that girl's night out, and nothing you can do can change my mind. I'm sorry."

"You are one STUBBORN bitch, you know that...?" He insulted viciously, gritting his teeth and pinning you against the wall. "Why is hanging out with a bunch of high-school girls SO damn important to you anyway...!?"

"I'd say you'd understand when you're older, but you're already like, oh I don't know, TWENTY-SIX...?" You sharply retaliated, glaring him down due to not appreciating his tight hold on you.

"You don't have to go, y'know~?" The demonic killer cooed in a sickly-sweet tone; his false innocence causing you to grow confused and frown at his strange behaviour. "You could always cancel~"

"I...I know that." You said suspiciously, relaxing your grasp a little and wonder what it was he was planning on saying next.

"After all, how much fun could you possibly have with them, that you couldn't possibly have with me~?" He angelically asked; his evil, emerald eyes glinting with deceitfulness as he ran his knifed hand flirtatiously through your hair.

"Please don't do this." You groaned in frustration, hearing Brittany unlock the front door and walk in. "I haven't got the time."

"I don't give a DAMN about whether or not you've got the fucking ti—"

"(Y/n)...? I'm home, and ready to give you a lift—!" Brittany stopped and stood there defensively, Freddy's grip on your right wrist making her narrow her eyes in his direction almost immediately. "Hey...Just what are you doing?"

"Well, would you look who's home~" The sadistic slasher drawled deviously, leaning back whilst still holding your wrist. "Welcome home, Brittany~"

"What are you doing to my sister!?" Repeating her question, Brittany clenched her handbag and tossed him a glare of her own, clearly still having a grudge against the dream demon from his previous actions.

—

"W...hat...the...fu...ck...is...you...r...pr...ob...lem...!?"
"What's my problem? My problem right now is you, bitch." "So shut the fuck up and be quiet."

"But Brittany hasn't DONE anything!" "You were talking about Sara last time!"
"Hasn't done anything? Aww, you're so sweet. And here I was thinking you'd figured it out~"
"Figured what out?"

"The reason why she told you to separate me from you and Sara~"
"She said it to protect Sara." "And that's ALL."
"Nu~uh~uh, kitten." "This bitch played you for a fool earlier, and I'm gonna make her whore-ass pay."

"No she didn't! So why don't you STOP throwing a temper tantrum and tell me what in God's name is going on!?" "Why are you acting like this!?"
"That's what you think this is...?" "You think it's nothing more than a temper tantrum?"

"It's obviously something!"
"Well, aren't you one smart little cookie~"
"Why are you bullying Brittany for NO reason?"
"No reason? This floozy tried to take you away from me earlier all because she doesn't like me, and you call that no reason?"

"I...I do!" "Because if you were smart, you would've trusted me enough to know that I would never agree to what she wanted in the first place!"
"Oh I would've, would I~?" "Your thoughts told me otherwise~"

"Look, what do you want from us!? From...From me?"
"What do I want?" "I want this bitch to stop trying to drive a wedge between us."
"Done. Done!" "I promise, Brittany won't ever get in the way of us again."

"Oh? And just how are you going to make sure that promise is kept, hmm~?"
"If you do this."
"Mm...I suppose I can do that." "But now you have to do something for me."
"Oh yeah? Like what...?"

"It's nothing hard." "All I want is one eensy-teensy little thing~"
"One eensy-teensy little thing...?"
"I want you to spend more time with me, and less time with these whores."
"Why would you even ask for—"
"Or so help me, I will kill EVERYONE you love and know."

"You understand, don't you sugar~?"

—

"Why, we're simply spending time together. That's all~" Freddy casually responded; his left hand wrapping around your waist as his knifed hand ran through your hair a second time. "You gotta problem with that, blondie~?"

"I...suppose not." Brittany answered cautiously, speaking in a suspicious tone of her own before eyeing him down. "I just find it hard to believe that my sister would spend time with you that way. Especially not when she's so short on time right now."

"Oh, you little bit—"
"What time is it...!?" You asked in alarm, pushing away from Freddy and snatching up your bag. "Am I running late...!?"

"You're not late, don't worry." Brittany comforted you soothingly, showing you the time on her phone and trying to keep you calm. "See? I just meant that you should probably be on your way over there, instead of messing around with—"

"Okay, okay, I see where you're coming from." You hurriedly interrupted, seeing Freddy's hateful rage and speedily stepping in-between the two. "Let's just stop things from getting pointlessly out-of-hand and focus on what you promised to do, m'kay Brit...?"

"Gladly." Dipping her head as a nod, Brittany opened the front door and let you go through first, ignoring the dream demon's furious stare while tossing him an underlaying smirk. "Car's unlocked, so just let yourself in, alright (Y/n)...?"

"Thanks, Brit." Once you'd gratefully thanked your older sister, you turned back; facing Freddy and curling your arms around his neck to give him a gentle hug before leaving. Then, you brushed your lips against his cheek as a kiss, trying your best to calm him down in the process. "I'll be back before ten. Promise."

"You'd better FUCKING be." The pissed-off psychopath ordered, pulling you into his chest and becoming overly-possessive. "Or so HELP me—"

"Why you agreed to date him again is beyond me..." Brittany sighed in despair, placing her hand on your shoulder and steering you closer towards her and further away from him. "C'mon, you actually will be late at this rate if we don't hurry up."

"Got it, got it." Waving goodbye to Freddy, you flashed him a softhearted smile and headed towards the car; waiting for Brittany to start driving whilst you dropped your bag next to your feet and checked the time. 7:23pm.

"Can we make it in seven minutes...?" You questioned Brit nervously, your anxiety rising after she started driving.

"I'm driving, so don't even sweat it." Your older sister proudly remarked, flicking her blonde hair back behind her shoulders as she sped up a tiny bit. "I'm surprised you're going out tonight though...You rarely go out. Is there a specific reason you're socialising...?"

"Well..." You hesitated, wondering if you should spill your true feelings or whether you should just pretend to help the new students meet up with others. "The three new girls that transferred seemed really nice. Ruby, Julie and Tiffany. They were the ones who invited me - and two others - to hang out at Lily-Rose Lounge tonight. I think they just wanted to make some new friends, y'know, get to know everybody better...?"

"Oh, I see...!" Brittany's expression cleared, your older sister flashing you a cheerful smile when she paused at a stop sign. "I hope that you all have a wonderful time together then."

"Me too." You said skittishly, suddenly becoming nervous as butterflies began to flutter around your stomach. "I mean...I mean what if they don't like me...? What if...What if this turns into some sort of joke where I get there and they...they prank me...?"

"(Y/n), calm down. Everything will be just fine." Brittany softly argued, her words giving you a sense of courage and compassion. "You'll see. You'll have a lovely time, have fun with all of these new classmates, and it'll be an entirely new experience for you."

"You really think so...?" You asked in a tiny voice, now feeling insanely insecure and stupendously scared.

"I know so." Brit vowed faithfully, parking nearby the cafe so she could give you a comforting cuddle. "Now go out there and work your magic, girl~"

"Alright, alright, thanks again for looking after Sara for me." You laughed aloud, giving her a hug in return before grabbing your bag and climbing out of the car.

"Don't mention it...!" The blonde-haired girl called after you as she smiled, revving up and driving off a moment later. With a deep breath, you turned towards the cafe and bit your lip, remembering how socially-awkward you were around new people or places. Then again—

"You don't have to go, y'know~?" "You could always cancel~"
"I...I know that."

"No. I can't be a coward." You huffed to yourself bravely, breathing out and walking through the cafe's front doors. "I agreed to do this. I agreed to—"

"(Y/n)! You made it...!" Tiff exclaimed excitedly, greeting you with joy while she engulfed you in a hug. "It's so good to see you again...!"

"Hey there, Tiff. What's good...?" You warmly asked, relaxing around her and quickly losing your nervousness.

"I'm doing great...!" Tiffany happily declared, breaking apart from the hug and tugging you by the hand towards their table. "How about you though...? You doing alright, (Y/n)...?"

"Oh, um, yeah. I'm doing just fine, thanks." You told her timidly, shifting from foot-to-foot and growing anxious after Tiffany started to introduce the other girls.

"Tiffany, please introduce them less loudly. Honestly, it's no wonder (Y/n)'s so nervous." Ruby sighed, shaking her head before standing up and giving you a kind hug of her own.

"Wha-!? I'm doing a great job here...!" Tiffany defended childishly, placing both hands on the table and causing Julie to roll her eyes.

"Here's an idea. Why don't we just let the other two girls introduce themselves, rather than have a loudmouth do it...?" Julie decided with a massive amount of sarcasm; causing you to silently laugh and keep it to yourself.

"Hey!" Tiffany complained, elbowing Julie before folding her arms. But you could tell she wasn't all that annoyed, because they seemed to be very good friends already.

"Fine with me." The first new girl responded, her short, dark-brown hair and dark-eyes striking you as the mature type. "My name's Zoey. Pleasure to meet you. (Y/n), was it?"

"Uh, yeah...! Nice to meet you also, Zoey." You stammered shyly, trying to calm your erratic heartbeat down and act natural at the very same time.

Though it wasn't easy - because Zoey was incredibly pretty, wearing pink-lip gloss, black eyeliner with tiny wings, and wore silver earrings too. She was wearing a white shirt along with a denim jacket, her black leggings only adding to her chill-look. The second girl - Nicole - was just as beautiful; being not only Japanese, but had porcelain-smooth skin too. She was a medium, straight, dark-brunette, with dark eyes and small facial features. Nicole was wearing a dark-blue blouse, skinny jeans, and gold-hoop earrings, her appearance striking you as a reserved yet mischievous type. Still, you weren't one to judge, you didn't exactly know them after all.

"(Y/n)...What a beautiful name." Nicole complimented out of the blue, trying to lighten the mood and be friendly. "My name's Nicole, but people usually call me Nico. Feel free to call me what you wish."

"Oh, I um...I like both. Nicole and Nico." You faintly smiled, liking Nicole and Zoey once you'd taken a seat. "Same with Zoey. Your name's are lovely. You guys are gorgeous too. I...I really don't know what to say."

"Thank you. It's not often you get someone with this much modesty." Zoey remarked with respect, the six of you sitting down together at that particular table.

"I'm sure that's debatable." Sheepishly shaking your head again, you continued to smile - all of you ordering a drink and started chatting amongst yourselves.

Tiffany was her usual, bouncy self, Julie stayed sharp-tongued and sarcastic, Ruby acted sweet and kindhearted, Zoey seemed loyal and helpful, and Nicole - or Nico - was playful yet compassionate, making sure that her teasing or taunts didn't quite hurt anyone or anybody around her. All five of the girls were super-duper fun to be around, giving you a refreshing time out as you enjoyed your (F/d) and happily relaxed around them, bit by bit. Time flew by, and so Zoey and Nico also gave you their phone numbers, everybody planning to meet up again soon while you stifled a yawn. But after saying goodbye, you decided to walk home - not wanting Brittany to leave Sara nearby your...unusual boyfriend.

"(Y/n)! Welcome home." Brittany greeted in a semi-loud, caring voice - keeping her tone low so she clearly wouldn't wake Sara. "How are you doing...? Everything alright...?"

"I'm doing fine, no need to worry about me. I had a blast...!" You informed Brit brightly, flinging your arms around her before sighing out in relief. "How about you...?"

"Well, I...Let's just say Sara taught Krueger a thing or two about anime..." Brittany uneasily stated, indicating that Freddy had kept Sara entertained for some time. "I guess I...I shouldn't judge a book by its cover..."

"Don't worry about it..." Covering a hand over your mouth, you stopped yourself from laughing wildly; realising that Freddy literally let your younger sister show him that cute anime from earlier this afternoon. "I did the very same thing. Anyway, I'm going to get ready for bed."

"Night, (Y/n), I hope you had a good time out tonight." She complimented fondly, wrapping her arms around your body before resting her head atop yours.

"Mmhm. Night, Brit." You replied pleasantly, hugging her back for a minute and then heading promptly upstairs.

Sara was asleep - which signified you had to be quiet around her bedroom door - and Brittany was still downstairs, meaning you were the second one going to sleep this Friday night. Well, Freddy was always asleep, but could you really count him...? He was more in dreams than sleep. With a shake of your head, you pushed your thoughts to the side and slipped into your pyjamas, brushing your teeth and yawning a third time while you snuggled down into your bed. Phew...As long as you could just tolerate Freddy tonight, Friday would be just fine. Great even. Fun for once.

"Surprising. You really meant it." A mischievous voice drawled maliciously; the familiar dream demon leaning back against one of the boiler machines with his arms crossed. "Before ten. How...interesting."

"What, you didn't think that I'd keep my word...?" You fiercely shot back, hiding your exhaustion and feigning fake stamina instead. "You must have some serious trust issues."

"Oh, gimme a break. I couldn't care less about your plans or your so-called "friends." " Freddy hissed venomously; scraping his metal finger-blades violently against the machines and therefore making them screech in a high-pitched manner. "Trust issues...? Please. Do whatever the fuck you want."

"At least I wasn't the one who got stuck watching cute cartoons with Sara, now was I...?" You gloated with an arrogant grin, not feeling afraid of his cold irritation whatsoever whilst you laughed a little at his aggravation.

"You are seriously pushing me tonight." He spat out vehemently, disappearing and reappearing abruptly in front of you. "What the FUCK is wrong with your little sister?"

"What do you mean~?" You heavenly asked, fluttering your eyelashes at him as he gripped your left wrist like earlier. "Sara wanted to show you some cute anime. She said that she'd picked it out just for you, and that she knew you'd like it. So what's the problem...?"

"I swear, I will split you in TWO." Freddy threatened you darkly, slamming you against one of the boiler machines and raising his metal claws up with a menacing glare. "Then you won't be laughing, now will you?"

"Go right ahead." Flashing a smug smile, you taunted him even further; used to his jealous behaviour as you merely rolled your eyes. "But you'll just end up single for the rest of your days."

"Believe me bitch, I will, y'know. " He warned you with a dangerously unhinged tone, his psychopathic gaze and obsessive attitude only growing while you raised your eyebrows. "I'll kill little Sara, I'll kill that Brittany bitch—"

"You wouldn't dare—"
"I'll kill that Tiffany whore—"
"Don't even go there—"
"Ruby—"
"That's enough, Freddy—"
"That angsty one—"
"Stop it—!"

"That Japanese chic—"
"I swear to God—"
"Even that other one. What was her name again? Zoey, wasn't it?"
"I promised that I'd be back by ten. And I kept my word. So I, personally, DON'T see what the issue is." You flared up feistily, losing your temper and glaring straight back at him. "So why don't you STOP being SUCH an ASSHOLE and CHILL the FUCK out already...!?"

"Careful, you don't want to wake up little Sara~" Freddy mocked relentlessly; the same old, creepy smile stretching across his face as you internally cursed. "Be a shame to wake her up so late, now wouldn't it~?"

"Why do I even date you again...?" You muttered in a disgruntled manner, breaking away from his hold and deciding to shove him instead. "You're far too obnoxious."

"I don't fucking know. Wanna help me find out though, Princess~?" The dream demon purred seductively; curling his left arm around your waist and pulling you closer to him, like he'd done earlier this evening.

"I think I'd rather burn alive in a fire, and—" Pausing, you suddenly got distracted, your eyes flickering over to his right hand and taking note of how he usually killed. What a strange way to murder. He didn't use a knife, or any type of gun. No poison or explosives. He didn't even seem to use his hands, nor his fists.

"Hey, question real quick." You curiously wondered, catching his attention and causing him to frown in confusion.

"Yeah? What?" He carelessly replied, not understanding your sudden curiosity and almost making you want to laugh again.

"Why don't you ever use a normal weapon? Y'know, like a knife...? Or a gun...?" You interrogated inquisitively, tilting your head to the side a tad as you held his right arm with your left hand. "What made you even want to make this anyway...? How did you make this...? It seems a bit...um...unusual to me..."

Freddy devilishly chuckled; his mood swinging back to his usual, mischievous self whilst he let go of your left wrist. "My, oh my~" He naughtily hummed, allowing you to hold his knifed hand and glance at his glove. "I certainly didn't expect you to take an interest in this old thing. Then again, it is my pride and joy, after all~"

"Your pride and joy? Really?" You spoke with disbelief, scepticism spreading across your gaze and doubt filling your tone. "I find that ridiculously hard to believe."

"Oh? Well, go straight ahead then, sweet-cheeks~" Freddy carried on deviously, his smirk strengthening with every passing second after he'd chuckled some more. "Why don't you try it on for size~?"

"And why would I want to do that...?" You wryly retorted, letting go of his arm and declining his offer right off the bat. "A girl has standards you know. Why would I ever wear a razor glove...? One which was plainly created to purposely slash and slaughter victims...?"

"Aw, c'mon. You were the one curious about it."
"There's a difference between curiosity and wearing a murder weapon!"
"Try it on~"
"No...!"
"You know you want to~"

"Oh for Pete's sake...!"
"Do it~"
"No...!"
"Do it~"
"No...!"
"Don't be such a Scaredy-cat~"
"I just don't want to...!"

"And here I thought my sweet girlfriend was hardy." Freddy insulted relentlessly, both his smirk and spiteful remark sending you over the edge without another moment. "Guess she's just a baby after all~"

"Ugh, fine...!" You gave in sourly, holding your right hand out and waiting for your sadistic boyfriend to create a replica. "If I wear this stupid thing for a minute or two, will you stop insulting me...?"

"Mmm...Lemme think about that." Pretending to mull it over in his mind, Freddy faked a thoughtful expression; bursting out into evil laughter a minute later before shaking his head and answering. "No."

"Bastard." You insulted him back; hiding a smile when he'd clicked his fingers and created a knifed glove of your very own.

"What? You look cute~" The dream demon teased sweetly; watching as your eyes drifted down towards your stylish, curved, catlike and metal claws, your metal-blades being similar but not quite the same as Freddy's. "You could kill for me anytime, kitten~"

"Y-Yeah, whatever..." Faintly blushing, you speedily slid the glove back off; ignoring how you silently enjoyed said piece of clothing and how cool it had secretly made you feel.

Pennywise:
"Man, English Literature Class sucks...!" Becky moaned miserably, banging her head against her desk before complaining even further. "How do they expect you to pay attention, scribble down every single fact, and memorise everything...? This shit's impossible...!"

"It would help if you actually paid attention, y'know, instead of sneakily glancing at your phone every time you could in-between our teacher's explanations." Dani dryly pointed out; placing her textbooks back into her bag as carefully as she possibly could.

"Hey, I...I was trying my best...! Hell, I was even Googling the answers from time-to-time this time around...!" Becky flared up, folding her arms and flicking her head to the side with a defensive tone of voice.

"No you weren't." Your short-haired brunette sarcastically denied; amusement flowing from her tone while you and Maria both laughed - agreeing with Dani. "Because if you had been paying attention, you wouldn't have needed your phone to "Google" in the first place, now would you...?"

"She's um...She's got a point there, Becky." Maria sided shyly, standing up from her desk after tucking her things back into her bag also. "It's never my intent to take sides or anything, but class would be a lot easier if you didn't ignore our teacher half the time..."

"Honestly." You joined in with a playful grin, shoving your things into your backpack before zipping it up and hoisting it over your shoulder. "I'm surprised our homeroom teacher hasn't called you out yet. You're setting a new record here."

"Am NOT...!" Becky retaliated with annoyance, rolling her eyes whilst she elbowed you in the side. "YOU'RE the one who randomly wants to walk home by themselves nowadays...!"

"Well, I uh...I have to meet up with my sisters real quick...after school...!" You fibbed in a slight stammer, glossing over the truth and trying to not seem suspicious all at the very same time. "It's really, um...important..."

"Riiiiight..." She doubtfully replied, raising her eyebrows as she became unusually curious.

"Anyway...! Instead of investigating my personal life, why don't we all hang out...?" You suggested hastily, wanting to shift the attention away from you and towards your friends instead. "I mean, school's only just finished."

"Technically, it's only momentarily finished, it hasn't permanently finished. At least, not for everyone. There are many different timezones to take into account, as well as graduates, bachelors of Maths, Science, English, Arts—"

"One of these days I'm going to seriously END you, Dani—" Becky muttered under her breath, interrupting your intellectual friend and brushing past her all at the same time.

"Okay, okay...! Why don't we all come to my house...?" Maria hurriedly offered, her kindhearted expression and pleasant plan striking you as incredibly fun.

"What, serious...?" Becky quizzically questioned, frowning as she forgot about her sudden exasperation.

"Y...Yeah...! It'll um...It'll be fun...! At least, I think it will be..." Maria responded nervously, flashing the three of you a faint smile while you all left the classroom. "Sorry if it's...y'know...not though..."

"Are you kidding...!? That sounds like a great idea, Maria...!" You exclaimed with excitement, flinging your arms around your blonde-haired friend before pulling her into a friendly, happy-go-lucky hug. "Doesn't it guys...?"

"Hell's yeah...!" Becky spoke enthusiastically, fist-pumping the air and growing delighted, just like you had. "Let's do this...!"

"Absolutely." Dipping her head as a nod, Dani smiled and accepted Maria's request; the smart girl entertaining the shy girl's offer whilst you four walked through the school hallway. "Thank you kindly for the polite invitation."

You were about to thank Maria also, but then you spotted Pennywise standing impatiently over by the opposite side of the hall; his dark-gold gaze clouded with concern as your eyes widened with surprise. "Oh um, mind if I catch up with you guys...? I uh...I just remembered that I have to speak to Jeremy...about something..." You lied uneasily, faking a smile and praying that your friends wouldn't see through your untruth.

"Jeremy...? Isn't he the guy who you keep on reject—"
"Okey-dokey, (Y/n)...! See you in a few." Maria stepped in lightly, speaking over Becky and nodding towards Dani.

"Thanks, you guys." You thanked with relief, giving each of them a hug before waving them goodbye. "See you by the school gates...?"

"Uh-huh...! See you by the school gates...!" Becky brightly remarked, hugging you back once you'd finished hugging everyone else.

"Phew..." You sighed to yourself afterwards, slipping a stray strand of hair behind your ear while you waited for Penny to disappear and reappear directly in front of you.

And so he did, the killer clown's eyes now glinting with frustration as he grasped you darkly by your shoulders. "And just what was that all about...?" Pennywise coldly wondered, his voice sounding immensely hurt by your previous interactions.

"What was what all about...?" You calmly quoted, deciding to go along with his angry attitude and see what his problem was.

"You're spending more time with those girls again, now aren't you...?" The psychopathic slasher brought up in a low tone, narrowing his eyes as he carelessly lost control of his jealousy.

"So what if I am...?" You answered indirectly, raising your eyebrows and growing a little aggravated. "I'm allowed to have friends. They're called Maria, Dani and Becky. And they're all really nice. Well, Dani purposely tries to annoy Becky sometimes, and Becky's a little louder than Maria, but other than that, we all manage to get along."

"I don't trust them." Pennywise hatefully insulted, wrapping his arms around your body before bringing you into a possessive cuddle of his own. "I don't trust them one BIT."

"What...? Why...?" You asked confusedly, not understanding his unexpected distrust thrown towards your friends. "Maria, Dani and Becky haven't even done anything to you...! Heck, they don't even know you exist...! Um, no offence..."

"None taken." Penny quietly spoke, his eyes hardening after you'd defended your friends. "But you know that's NOT what I meant. It's not what they've done, it's what they could do."

"Look, I understand your concern." You comforted the clownish male gently; appreciating how much he seemed to care about you and your well-being. "Really, I do. But this isn't like last time."

"But you don't KNOW that." Pennywise argued frustratedly, flickering over to his darker form and shaking his head. "I've seen it over, and over, and OVER again. And so have you. I think you'd know that better than ANYBODY, honeybun."

"But this isn't a party. Or a nasty group of mean girls." You fiercely fought back, breaking away from Penny's hold and taking a deep breath in. "These are just three girls. Three girls who just so happen to want to be friends with me, and get to know me for who I am."

"Oh, please. They're nothing. Nothing but a bunch of human, high-school girls." Pennywise laughed in disbelief; his spiteful sneer and psychotic personality shining through. "You can't possibly be serious about befriending them, sweetheart~"

"That's ENOUGH Penny...!" You snapped at him sternly; causing a shocked look to silently spread across his face. "I said that's enough. They're new friends. I've known them for more than a couple of months. I trust them more than enough, and they're not going to pull any more cruel pranks on me. Alright...?"

"I take it you're walking home with them, then...?" He replied with resentment, his eyes gleaming bitterly as he watched you spin back around the hallway.

"It's just for the evening. I'll be back home by tonight, I promise." You vowed loyally, doing your best to console him and keep everything under control all at once.

"This is so unfair..." Pennywise sourly spoke, his moody mindset and sulkiness striking you as strangely adorable. "You never want spend time with me anymore. Never."

"We hung out last night, Penny." You reminded wryly, raising your eyebrows at him before giving him a delicate kiss on the cheek. "Remember...? Not to mention you kept me company while I got ready for school this morning. You haven't left my side whatsoever recently. So you can't say that."

"But you always seem so...so busy." The clown unhappily huffed; wrapping his arms around you in another hug so he could pull you even closer into his chest. "Why can't we just spend time together anymore...? Just the two of us...?"

"Believe me, I want to." You reassured him warmly, hugging Pennywise in return whilst you attempted to sympathise with him. "Really, I do. Spending time with you sounds like the most fun in the entire world."

"So why don't you...?" Penny possessively wondered; tightening his hold on you before resting his head on top of your hair. "C'mon, cutie~ You don't have to go. You don't have to go and spend time with them."

"Penny, we've been through this—"
"I can give you whatever you want...!"
"That's NOT why I'm going—!"
"But we always have fun together...!"

"Pennywise, I'm going and that's that. You can't stop me." You reprimanded seriously, moving away from him as you started walking through the school's hallway.

"No~?" He wickedly hummed, snatching up your wrist and forcing you to stay where you were. "Who said I can't~?"

"Please don't do this, Penny." You told him tiredly, twirling around to face him and trying to tug your wrist free. "I don't have time for this right now. My friends are waiting for me by the school gates."

"Be a shame if they left without you, now wouldn't it~?" Your partner messed with you maliciously, deliberately wanting to twist your thoughts about them and cause you to become uneasy. "Be a shame if they'd all grown bored...if they had all already walked home together~"

"They-They would NEVER do that...!" You angrily retorted, ripping your wrist out of his grasp before eyeing him with hurt. "So don't even SAY things like that...!"

"You don't sound so sure." He smiled teasingly; his eyes now glistening with that evil glimmer you'd seen him do in the past.

"I've had enough of this." You shot at him sharply, your voice wobbling while tears pricked at the side of your eyes. "You...You're not acting like yourself at the moment...! The Penny I know would support me...NOT try to plant silly little ideas inside my head...! You're...You're being ridiculous...!"

"Everything I do is to protect you." Pennywise disagreed furiously, losing his evil smile and instead glaring you down. "Don't EVER forget that. Who knows what those three could be plotting...!? For all we know, this could be a complete and utter repeat of last time...!"

"They're not plotting anything." You defended them passionately, clenching your fists while you glared straight back at him. "Besides...It's better to have loved and lost, than to have never loved at all. They're my friends, Penny. I have to try. I'd rather be a lion for a day, than to be a sheep for the rest of my life."

"I can't protect you over there. I'm not near you." He brought up in a troubled tone, trying another tactic as he took both of your hands in his and gave them a gentle squeeze. "Don't you understand? If something - anything - were to happen to you—"

"I'll be fine." You wearily cut in, squeezing his hands before pulling away once more. "Please, just...just trust me."

"It's not you I don't trust, honey...it's...it's human nature..." Pennywise gave in with an insecure response; shaking his head whilst he also clenched his fists. "They're coldhearted, they're coldblooded, they're callous, they're cruel. They can take even the most sweetest of souls and crush it without any care in the world."

"But that's not everybody though, Penny. You can't throw everyone under the bus all because of a few shallow people." You spoke with a sorrowful smile, giving him a third gentle hug and doing your best to calm him down again. "I'll be back before you know it."

"You'd better be back before sundown." Pennywise stressfully warned, returning said hug and feeling comforted by your behaviour. "Otherwise, I'll—"

"I get it, I get it...!" You exclaimed in alarm, waving your arms in front of you and taking a couple of steps backwards. "I understand. Okay...? I understand. Love you, Penny."

"I love you too, little lollipop. More than you could ever know." After Pennywise had said that, you gave him another fond smile and waved goodbye; your irritation towards him softening as you left the hallway altogether, exiting the school while you saw your friends waiting by the gates. Maria was chatting cheerfully with another student, Becky was skimming impatiently through things on her phone, and Dani was re-reading one of the school library's science books for an upcoming test. Smiling, you approached the three; amused by how restless Becky was being compared to the other two, and how relaxed Maria seemed speaking to the girl opposite your friend Dani.

"Hey, guys. Sorry I took so long." You timidly apologised, shooting them an awkward smile whilst you prayed they weren't too mad.

"Don't worry about it. You ready to go...?" Maria replied in a thoughtful tone once she'd ended her conversation with the random.

"You took FOREVER...!" Becky groaned dramatically, acting theatrical after she'd tucked her phone into her pocket and exaggerated how long she'd waited. "What could you've even been doing in the school hallway...!?"

"Uh...Jeremy wanted to talk to me about something...Again..." You lied with a bit lip, gripping your backpack's strap and looking to the side as you tentatively moved ahead. "I really don't know why he won't um...y'know, give up on me..."

"Ugh, what is that guy's problem...?" Becky asked bluntly, her face crinkling into one of disapproval while you all began walking towards Maria's house.

"I think he's just lonely..." Maria theorised in a soft tone, trying to lighten the mood and brighten up Becky's agitation. "He did get cheated on by Blaire after all. Then it got spread all around school and people found it funny that he didn't realise until Val pointed it out. I can't imagine how humiliated he felt."

"Still though, I don't know why he won't go for you guys, or anybody else in our class." You mulled over in your mind, wishing Jeremy would give up so that Pennywise wouldn't behave so jealously.

"If I had to guess, it's most likely because you're the nicest and kindest girl in our class." Dani commented calmly, placing a finger against her chin whilst she thought aloud and easily kept pace with you three. "Becky's a bit uh...Becky, Maria's a bit too shy, and I'm not exactly "dating material," y'know...?"

"Hey...!" Becky whined with a huff, elbowing Dani in the side and rolling her eyes - but you could tell she wasn't really all that mad.

"I don't know about all that, but thanks for the compliment." You laughed in amusement, sending Dani a thankful smile and receiving one in return.

Minutes passed by like seconds, Maria's house appearing moments later as Becky's impatience dampened and Dani's sarcasm increased. Yet you found their rivalry amusing, you and Maria both smiling once you all entered her house and hung out in the living room. At first the blonde was a little bashful; her anxiety shining through due to Maria feeling nervous and worried about showing you her home, but eventually she relaxed, all of you having fun simply hanging out and chilling. You and your friends even had your (F/F) for dinner, all of you just messing around while your happiness grew. Seriously, this was an entirely new experience for you; considering you usually spent evenings with either Penny or your sisters. But then you checked the time, realising that you had to leave and go home.

"Damn, it's six-thirty." You brought up regretfully, picking up your backpack and slinging it over your shoulder. "I think it's time I head home now."

"You're joking, right...? It's not even properly nighttime yet...!" Becky exclaimed with an excited expression, sipping at her drink as she happily enjoyed her time with you guys. "Besides, you live across the street from Maria, it's hardly that far. C'mon...!"

"I know, but...the weather's not looking too great..." You hastily trailed off, heading towards Maria's front door and making up a poor excuse straight on the spot. "I had fun this evening though...!"

"Maybe you guys should stay over tonight..." Maria sheepishly suggested, looking out of the living room's window and growing a tiny bit worried. "The wind outside is really picking up, not to mention the unexpected rain. Those dark-grey clouds aren't helping either..."

"Fuck yeah...! Sleepover at Maria's...!" Becky cheerfully yelled, flinging her arms around the blonde and becoming even more excited. "I'm so down for this...! Let's go...!"

"Hmm...I'd rather my textbooks stay in-tact than ruined by the rain." Dani agreed unanticipatedly; keeping her bag out of Becky's wild reach. "Or ruined by Becky for that matter..."

"How about you, (Y/n)...? You staying over too...?" Maria turned to face you generously; her warm smile making you feel worse knowing you'd have to reject said offer.

"I wish I could...Really...But I um, I can't." You guiltily declined, opening her front door before waving goodbye to everyone and stepping outside. "Catch you guys tomorrow...?"

"You've got to be joking...!" Becky spoke to you with bemusement, not understanding why you'd step outside into the rain and purposely get wet. "(Y/n), you'll drown...! Besides, you live right across the street, I highly doubt your mother's going to give a shit...!"

"Exactly, it's right across the street. I'll only get a little bit soaked." You responded breezily, flashing them all a smile whilst you took a step outside and waved. "Bye Becky, bye Dani, bye Maria...! See you all tomorrow...!"

Once your friends had each casually replied, you spun back around and started to head down the street; shivering ever-so-slightly as the relentless rain suddenly lashed down and soaked your clothes. Truth be told, the weather wasn't all that pleasant - not at all - but at least you'd had fun with your friends. Then again...you hugged your arms and shuddered, seeing your house's front door a few houses down. Dang you were freezing...Not to mention a little wet and chilly. However, that was your own fault, due to not bringing an umbrella or coat, and instead deciding to walk through the stormy weather yourself. But would you catch a cold from your reckless decision...? Hm...

Before you could properly think things over, a familiar pair of arms scooped you into an overprotective cuddle and pulled you into their chest; their obsessive hold on you causing your eyes to widen. "Penny...?" You stammered with surprise, confused by how fast the clownish male had arrived. "I...I don't understand. What are you doing out here on the street...? I said I'd be back by this evening...and I kept my word, so—"

"What the HELL were you thinking...!?" Pennywise frantically exploded, his gold-eyes glittering with rage as the slasher held you in his arms and panicked.

"What do you mean...?" You questioned with curiosity, thankful for the clown's hold and appreciating how his embrace stopped you from becoming even more soaked.

"Walking home in this stormy weather without your coat or umbrella...Why would you walk down the street in such terrible conditions...?" He demanded to know defensively, resting his head on top of your hair and wildly worrying.

"I was only a little cold...Besides, I only live down there..." You mildly mentioned, raising your finger before pointing through the rain. "I can easily dry myself off when I get home...It's no big deal..."

"That's NOT the point...!" Penny growled angrily, running his right hand through your hair and trying to keep you warm.

"I think you're overreacting slightly..." You replied with a sigh, glancing up at him while you appreciated his affection.

"And I think you're under-reacting." He shot back sternly, placing his hands on your shoulders as he debated what to do. "I mean, really. You're going to freeze to death if I don't do something."

"And just what are you going to do about dark-grey rainclouds, Penny...?" You asked in amusement; shooting him a dry smile whilst pushing a strand of damp hair back behind your ear.

"I can give you this." Pennywise adoringly responded, making something materialise into the palm of his hand and giving you an expensive-looking piece of jewellery.

"Aww, Penny..." You spoke happily, your heart skipping a beat as you gazed down at said locket. It looked utterly stunning, the necklace swirling with an unusual shade of scarlet and shimmering while you kept looking at it. "This is beautiful...! Thanks so much...! I absolutely love it...!"

"I'm glad you do. However, it's not just a locket~" The clown tenderly told you, clasping his hands around yours before squeezing your hand sweetly.

"It's not...?" You inquired quizzically, tilting your head to the side a little as you flashed him a puzzled frown. "But if it's not just a locket, then what is it...?"

"It's a mystical locket, containing magical abilities such as keeping you warm and stopping the rain from drenching your clothes." Pennywise lovingly explained, curling the necklace around your neck and therefore causing it to activate. "It'll work even when I'm not around."

"Well it's gorgeous...!" You joyfully stated, clapping your hands together before flinging your arms around him and engulfing Penny into another one of your excited hugs. "I can't believe it...! Thank you...!"

"Anything for you, little lollipop~" He complimented devotedly, wrapping his arms around you and cuddling you back. "Anything for you. But believe me, the locket only adds to your lovely form~"

"You're too kind..." You mumbled embarrassingly, your cheeks glowing a heavy-pink as you broke apart from the hug and held his hand instead. "Let's just...Let's just head back home..."

"I speak nothing but the truth." Pennywise sweetly said, grateful for your handholding whilst the two of you started walking down the street. "Really."

Norman Bates:
A week or two had passed since the jealousy incident; with Norman cautiously accepting Molly as a friend and allowing her to spend time with you instead of him from time-to-time. But even though the dark-haired male had agreed to let you hang around Molly, he still resented certain customers from socialising and interacting with you - especially the male ones. It even decreased business...Well, occasionally. You honestly didn't know what to do, in the end deciding to speak to Molly about said issue, and wondering what she'd had to say about this specific subject.

"Hmm...I do see where you're coming from..." Molly mused thoughtfully, both of you pretending to be switching tasks and changing uniforms real quick. "Norman does seem to be growing more and more obsessive over you, (Y/n). This isn't exactly normal. Even going by the "obsessive boyfriend" standards."

"I know, I know..." You worried in despair, biting your lip whilst you became anxious. "I just...I just don't know what to do about it. He seems happy enough when we go about our daily life. It's just whenever somebody else interjects, or whenever somebody even socialises with me."

"But have you ever considered that you're giving up your free will, just to keep Norman happy...? It's not selfish to do what you want sometimes, y'know...?" Molly commented awkwardly, shifting from foot-to-foot as she combed her hair back into a ponytail.

"I...I guess..." You nervously mumbled, releasing a sigh and also brushing back your hair. "I just don't want a repeat of what happened a week or two ago..."

"I know you don't, but you can't control that." She replied with a therapeutic tone, giving you a soft hug and doing her best to calm you down in the process. "That's entirely out of your hands. In the end, Norman's the one who has to keep the motel running smoothly."

"I just don't get why he's so...so infatuated over me..." You thought aloud hesitantly, running a hand through your hair and finishing up getting ready to take over your next job at the motel. "I mean, we're only dating, right...?"

"Well I mean, you're super-duper nice, you're incredibly beautiful, you're really friendly, you're unbelievably understanding, you're tremendously smart...the list goes on and on, y'know...? Give yourself more credit, girl." Molly complimented you cheerfully, nudging you in the side with a playful smile and cheering you up within seconds.

"I think people give me way too much credit, personally..." You humbly responded, becoming humiliated and feebly waving her compliments off.

"Nu~uh~" Molly cheekily laughed, sticking her tongue out before she waved goodbye to you and began cleaning each and every Guest Room.

"Goddammit, Molly...! We're not done here...!" You giggled after her lightly, feeling moderately brighter and happier about your partner's...problems. Speaking of which—

"(Y/n)...! I-It's SO good t...to see you...!" Norman greeted you joyfully, flinging his arms around your body and snuggling into your chest. "Y-You took F-FOREVER to get changed - I...I was starting to-to get w-worried, y'know...?"

"Hey there, Norman." You kindly responded, curling your arms around him in return and giving him a gentle cuddle straight after. "I didn't think I took that long to get changed. I was just chatting to Molly while we both swapped work outfits...that's all."

"O-Oh yeah...? W-What were you two t-talking about...?" Norman asked innocently, not picking up on the fact that it was about him and his possessiveness. Well, either that or he was insanely good at hiding his true emotions.

"Nothing important..." Brushing it off, you wondered how to go about it, internally panicking and deciding to grasp at straws. "Really...! Just um...How her older sister had paid a visit to the florist that my Mom runs recently, and...and how coincidental that seemed."

"W...Wow...! T-That does seem pretty c-coincidental..." Norman agreed in surprise, his eyes widening at your comment and reacting just how he'd normally would. But then he laughed a little, switching personality state almost immediately. "Ahaha...! Bet you w-were really startled b-by that piece of information, now w-weren't you...?"

"Oh, absolutely." You laughed faintly, faking amusement as you attempted to pull away from his embrace and get back to work. "I honestly didn't see that coming, y'know...? But hey, I guess that's just one surprise after another, now isn't it...?"

"Y-You're telling me...!" Norman pleasantly remarked, following you into the kitchen and not leaving your side whatsoever. "S...So are you and Molly s-swapping cleaning jobs t-today...?"

"Mmhm! Molly's cleaning out all of the spare Guest Rooms today, while I monitor the breakfast area - so she gets a break from taking orders and serving the guests." You informed him with a polite smile, opening one of the kitchen cupboards so you could take out your trusty notepad and pen.

"A-Aww...! T-That's so kind of you, (Y/n)...! Y-You're always so...SO sweet...!" Norman affectionately exclaimed, his compliment throwing you off and causing your heart to actually skip a beat.

"Naw..." You feebly argued, your smile widening due to his warm words and wholesome attitude. "I just think everyone should freshen up during their jobs. Having a dull job is going to cause nothing but negativity amongst the workers. Wouldn't you agree?"

"Y-Yeah...You're...You're right...!" Dipping his head as a nod, Norman agreed in a dazed tone; your words definitely having an effect whilst he smiled back. "I-I never thought of it...t-that way...but...but t-that's true...!"

"Glad you think so." You spoke in relief, thankful that your partner wouldn't argue or disagree with your mindset. "Well, with that said, I'm going to start my shift now. Catch you later, Norman. Love you."

"L...Love you m-more...!" Norman declared adorably, hugging you a second time while resting his head against your shoulder. "N-Nobody could love you m-more than I d-do...!"

"Mmm...Let's just leave it at that for now." You decided with a tinge of mischief, kissing him delicately on the cheek before moving away and heading into the lounge area.

Taking orders and serving customers wasn't all that tedious - what with Norman cooking up the food and carefully handing it to you - but his erratic bitterness and emotional outbursts were extremely unhelpful, whether they were towards males or not. It was starting to cause distress amongst customers, which made you reprimand him once or twice. But...But it had to be done. It had to be. As Molly's words rang around your head, you realised that Norman couldn't keep smothering you. He just couldn't. You needed your free will. You needed time to yourself. And most of all, you needed your freedom. So after striking up your polite personality, you placed another meal down in front of another customer and spoke in your usual pleasant voice - attempting to appear charming. Well, to some degree.

"Here's your breakfast, Sir. I hope your food and the cup of coffee you ordered is to your liking." You announced respectfully, shooting them a courteous smile and getting a grateful "thank you" back. Phew.

"Excuse me, would it be possible to have a coffee over here please...?" Somebody else called out, their tone charming yet calm.

"Of course. Coming right up." Shifting your attention towards them, you scribbled down what they wanted before stepping into the kitchen and showing Norman.

"A-Are you sure that you're feeling alright...?" Norman fretted over you anxiously, making their coffee and extra meal. "W...We seem to be pretty b-busy...I could always t-take over, or—"

"Norman, relax." Keeping him calm, you tried to stop him from losing it; changing trays as you waited for the next request to be completed. "I'm fine. Really. This is just another customer, wanting another order."

"I-I...I...Alright..." Norman muttered sulkily, finishing off the order and placing it onto your tray. "But...But if a-anything happens, or if a-anything goes w-wrong, I...I'll be over there i-in a f-flash."

"I know, and I appreciate it." You happily reassured him, a warm glow flowing through your heart after you saw how much he cared about you. "Really, I do. But everything will be fine. Promise."

"I...I love you, (Y/n). S...So...SO much...!" Norman blurted out, flinging his arms around you again and forgetting about the current customer. "Y-You...You mean the...the WORLD to me...! R-Really, you...you DO...!"

"I love you too, Norman." You affectionately replied, his cute behaviour causing your heart to melt even further. "More than you know. But perhaps we should get back to the order at hand and focus on the motel...?"

"O-Oh...yeah. Right..." Norman stuttered in embarrassment, letting you break away and pick up the serving tray once more. "T...Take care of yourself, (Y-Y/n)...!"

"Honestly..." You talked to yourself dryly, leaving the kitchen as you held the tray between both hands. "Molly was right, I need to talk to Norman about this. The motel will suffer if this carries on..."

But bottling your true feelings up, you placed the coffee and breakfast in front of the patiently waiting customer; heading over to a previous person instead. While you collected their empty cup and dishes up however, what you didn't expect was for one of their cups to still be semi-full, the remaining liquid spilling onto your outfit and staining your uniform. A stunned expression swiftly shot across your face, the individual apologising almost at once as Norman became alarmed. But you gave the person a gentle smile, the sudden surprise wearing off whilst you attempted to appear professional and business-like.

"I-I really didn't mean to spill my cold drink over you, Ma'am, I um...I probably should've told you I didn't want any more of it. Dammit..." He groaned, pressing a hand against his head and obviously giving himself a hard time over what he'd just done.

"Please don't concern yourself over this, Sir." You reassured them with a soft smile, wanting to cheer him up and calm him down. "This sort of thing happens from time-to-time, and it's really no big deal. All I have to do is switch outfit and have this one washed in the meantime."

"Are you sure...? I wouldn't want you to go through any type of trouble because of my recklessness..." The male customer sighed uncomfortably, biting his lip and looking at you with an uneasy expression.

"Everything's just fine...! My main concern is simply your experience here at Bates Motel." You gently responded, dipping your head as a nod and trying to stop his distress. "Please don't worry. I'll be leaving now, so just have a wonderful rest of your day."

"Thank you for your kind response." He breathed out in relief, giving you a grateful nod before standing up and getting ready to leave.

"Now then, how to wash this..." You murmured under your breath quietly, setting down the tray and toying with the edge of your stained shirt. "I could always shove it into the washing machine, but that'll take at least a day...The only spare outfit I have is that other one over there - which is fine - but I think I'll be a tad bit chilly. Well, time to just grin and bear it—"

"(Y-Y/N)...! Are...Are you a-alright-!?" Norman gasped in a shocked tone, rushing over to you and clasping his hands together like before. "I...I saw w-what happened, a-and—!"

"Oh, I'm fine." You playfully consoled him, rubbing his shoulder and stifling a light laugh. "It's only a little coffee, and it's only my uniform. I'm pretty sure I have a spare one somewhere. I just have to look around—"

"O-Oh, w-who DID this t-to you-!?" He demanded dramatically; his eyes glistening with tears at the edges whilst you lost your amusement and grew slightly unnerved.

"You saw who did this to me." You pointed out with bemusement, not understanding his sudden anguish. "A male customer. All that happened was a bit of cold coffee spilt over me as I picked up a half-empty cup."

"W-What was their name...!?" Norman commanded fiercely, flashing an angry look at the now-leaving customer and losing control. "T-They OBVIOUSLY did it o-on purpose...!"

"They really didn't do it on purpose..." You hurriedly argued, holding the palms of your hands up and shaking your head. "You're overreacting here, Norman."

"N...No...! I-I'm NOT...!" Norman tearfully snapped, causing your eyes to widen and for you to feel strangely hurt. "T-They're just taking advantage o-of how...how sweet and f-forgiving you are, (Y-Y/n)...!"

"Um...Actually, I think they just forgot that they'd finished with their drink..." You trailed off coolly, raising your eyebrows and rolling your eyes.

"B-But—!"
"Enough, Norman...!" You retaliated sharply, dealing with the situation yourself and pushing past him. "You're taking this way too far. It was accidental, the customer even apologised, and now all I have to do is change into my spare uniform. That is all."

"Y-You don't even have a spare u-uniform...!" Norman retorted hotly, acting like a child and nitpicking at your reply.

"Well, I...I have my summer uniform one. That'll do for the moment." You spoke with an uncertain attitude; entering your bedroom and opening your wardrobe while Norman tagged behind you like a overprotective puppy. "It...It has to be in here somewhere..."

"B-But...But your s-summer uniform i-is...is SHORT-sleeved...!" Norman cried out with a troubled tone, looking unbelievably concerned once he watched you pick it out. "You'll...You'll grow C-COLD...!"

"N...Not forever. The important thing is to change out of this outfit, so I can complete my shift. After all, Molly's still on cleaning duty - and you don't have anybody else employed to help out right now." You reminded him patiently, releasing a sigh as you slipped out of your stained uniform and switched into your short-sleeved one instead. "It's fine...I'm fine...really."

"W-Well...W-Well...at least...at least take my jacket...!" Norman begged desperately; yanking said piece of clothing off before wrapping it carefully around your shoulders. "I...I know it's not all t-that great or anything...but...but...at least it'll stop you f-from...from growing c-chilly today..."

"Aww, Norman...Thank you..." You gratefully answered, cuddling into the jacket while you accepted his loving hug. "It's so soft, and...and surprisingly warm. Though, I...I should probably put this on - rather than have it curled around my shoulders."

"G-Good idea...! T...Though I...I have to say..." Norman stuttered in embarrassment, his stammers and shy personality causing another softhearted smile to spread sweetly across your face.

"You have to say...?" You questioned with a tinge of mischief, acting slightly playful whilst you flicked your hair back. "What's on your mind, Norman...?"

"I...I have to say...y-you...you..." Your partner stammered even more, holding his arms together as you slipped into his jacket and enjoyed how comfortable it was.

"Mmhm...?" With devilish amusement, you laughed a little; finding Norman's response to yours to be immensely funny and wholesome at the very same time. But then his—

"I-I have to say, you...you look insanely cute, (Y-Y/n)...! C-Cuter than you could ever imagine...!"

Hannibal Lecter:
"I-I just don't get it...Why would you—"
"Why would I do such a thing? Because I don't care who I hurt. I never have. Why should I?" "I didn't want to share your lovely personality with anyone. And now...now I don't have to. They don't deserve your attention. They don't deserve any of it. You understand, don't you darling~?"

Furious tears twinkled like stars as they shined across your eyes; your heart shattering into metaphorical shards due to your soul not being able to believe what you'd just heard. Hannibal...He'd...He'd done it not only on purpose, but without any regret or remorse whatsoever. He'd hurt you intentionally, just so he could keep you all to himself. Your pen-pal friends hadn't hurt you as a sick joke, they were simply trying to save Melody at the time. They were trying to protect her. From Hannibal's despicable, diabolical, and downright sickening little scheme. Were you willing to accept what he'd done so...so easily...? Were you willing to let him act so...so possessive over you...?

"No." You replied coldly, taking a step or two backwards before narrowing your eyes. "I don't. I don't understand. That logic is absolutely ridiculous. I may not be fully recovered from my mental health issues, but what you've just said to me...what you've just said, is completely and utterly barbaric."

"Oh, it is, is it?" Shooting you a sly smirk, Hannibal held your hands in his and chuckled; finding your retort to be somewhat amusing. "Well, I suppose I can't deny that. Besides, it would become rather tiresome for us both if I were to stand here and talk about my previous behaviour for the next few minutes, would it not?"

"That's NOT the point." You shot back sharply, resenting his unemotional attitude and how he was acting in general. "Not caring about who you hurt? That's horrible. You should always care. And I'm NOT a possession. I'm NOT a...I'm NOT a...a thing. I'm a person."

"Why, of course you're a person, mia cara." Hannibal responded with the utmost respect, giving your hands a gentle squeeze and trying his hardest to calm you down. "I never implied for a moment that you weren't. I would never label you with such a disgusting and degrading alias. And anyway, calling you a thing would be incredibly impolite, don't you think?"

"Yes. I do." You spoke curtly, staring him down and carrying on with your furious glare. "But what you did to my friends...was awful. How you treated them, was...was disgraceful. And you're NOT going to convince me otherwise."

"I can see that. But in the end, I'm afraid I did what I had to, in order to gain what it is that I desired. Because, unfortunately, sometimes, it's as simple as that. Please understand, il mio bel fiore." The psychiatrist explained psychotically, both of his thumbs skimming across your skin whilst he softly stroked above your fingers.

"Why would I...!? That's...That's almost inhuman...!" You rejected his philosophy almost at once; pulling away from his hold before angrily shaking your head and seeing just how unstable he truly was. "I would never accept such a...such a coldhearted and cruel ideology...!"

"Mm...True. After all, I already knew deep down that someone as kindhearted and as sweet as you would never agree to such an...such an unfeeling concept." He wickedly remarked, a tinge of mischief still lingering within his tone.

His teasing comment made more tears prick at the edge of your eyes; your fists clenching while you gritted your teeth furiously. "Are you trying to pick a fight with me...?" You retaliated defensively, taking a deep breath and trying to stay in control of the situation.

"Pick a fight with you...?" Hannibal curiously repeated, curling his left arm carefully around your waist so he could lovingly cradle your cheek with his right hand. "Why on Earth would I ever want to pick a fight with you...?"

"I don't know. I wish to God that I did know, because this whole thing is just...is just messed-up." You fired back at him, hating how your heartbeat had already accelerated and accidentally given away your embarrassment.

"Would it make you feel better if I were to take you out on another date? To take your mind off of everything?" He asked affectionately, his offer throwing you off and filling you with unexpected surprise.

But then you judged him for his past behaviour - remembering not only the kidnapping, but the manipulation and cannibalism too. You didn't know what to think anymore. You were emotionally and excessively exhausted. The stress that you'd felt. The fear that you'd felt. You couldn't go on like this. Could you...? You didn't know what to do. To be honest, a second date would take your mind off of things. But weren't you supposed to be annoyed with him...? Then again, he did pull that sneaky little stunt. And all so he didn't have to share you with anyone. Anyone at all. In fact, the way he'd just spoken had only proved him to be a total psychopath.

"Why would I ever agree to a second date...!? Especially after everything I've just found out about my friends...!" You laughed in disbelief, not being able to believe him. "You drove each and every one of them away, all so you could get closer to me...! And you did it all on purpose too...!"

"I told you before. I tried to warn you." Hannibal sighed with another softened smile, acting strangely superior as you tried to think back to what he was talking about. "But when all is said and done, it's up to you on whether or not you decide to heed my advice, dearest."

—

"I'm just saying, don't trust everything you see." Hannibal warned, murmuring his words against your lips and making you feel a little bit more bashful. "—Because even sugar can turn out to be salt."

—

"B...But I...I thought you were only talking about Jade and the others..." You stammered in surprise, stunned by his hidden warning. "I-I didn't think...I didn't think you were talking about yourself as well...!"

"Oh, my sweet, sweet (Y/n), why wouldn't I've been~? If it meant getting what I wanted, then of course I wouldn't have minded slighting myself. Obviously, it wouldn't have been my first course of action, considering I have moderately high levels of self-esteem, but as I've previously mentioned - "I'm afraid I did what I had to, in order to gain what it is that I desired."." Hannibal deceitfully pointed out, plainly unashamed of what he'd done or what he'd said.

"I just can't believe you." You tearfully exclaimed, your hurt tone of voice and betrayed gaze falling to the ground while you began to gradually lose control. "Why...? Just...Just why...? You knew I wanted friends. You knew I wanted them to like me. And yet...yet you made it look like they didn't. You twisted it into some sort of...some sort of spoiled scenario."

"Like I told you before, I did what I did to protect you. To prevent anyone else from hurting you. Even if it meant keeping people at a certain...distance." The dark-haired male informed you angelically, his possessive answer making you feel genuinely stressed-out and unsafe. "Your happiness means everything to me. I'd hate for you to go through any more...unneeded suffering. And all because of society too. What a waste of your time."

"That ISN'T your decision to make, Hannibal!" You huffed at him indignantly; moving away from his arm and stopping his other hand from caressing the side of your face. "I have to decide for myself whether something will hurt me or not. Whether something is a waste of my time or not. You can't pick-and-choose for me."

"No~?" He asked you casually, another playful smirk spreading across his face. "And why ever not? When you think about it, haven't my plans all worked out in your favour~?"

"You're not getting it, are you...?" You sighed in despair, holding the sides of your arms and feeling disappointed. "This date isn't going to change anything. It won't fix what you've done, Hannibal. This is...This is psychological damage. Why can't you realise that...?"

"I realise that." Hannibal innocently answered, his reply surprising you and causing you to frown.

"But then why would you ask—?"

"Because spending time with you means more to me than anything else in the world." He told you adoringly, placing his hands against your waist with the utmost of care and still attempting to win you over.

"Are you serious...?" You questioned frustratedly, shaking your head as you tried to keep ahold of your composure. "You can't expect me to be won over with a second date and some words."

"I never assumed otherwise." The psychiatrist softly said, shifting back into his charming self and trying harder. "But would you do me the honour of taking you out to dinner tonight, in an attempt to make it up to you? Per favore, Amore mio?"

"You...want me, to go out with you...after what I've just discovered...?" With another laugh of disbelief, you pushed him away by the chest; moving backwards a second time whilst you eyed him down bitterly.

"Would you let me at least try...?" Hannibal pressed sweetly, a surprised look spreading across your expression when he grasped you by the wrists and gave you a softhearted squeeze. "Pretty please~?"

"I...Well, I..." You hesitated, your defence disintegrating as you wondered what to do. "I don't know, Hannibal. I really don't...I'm sorry."

"Well, I definitely won't force you into anything, and besides, it would only be a restaurant date." He delicately remarked, shooting you another one of his gentle smiles and strangely being able to calm you down. "What do you say~?"

With a suspicious stare, you came to a conclusion and dipped your head as a nod; silently agreeing while you cautiously consented to his compromise. So whilst time passed, you headed into your bedroom and exhaustedly switched clothes - selecting an outfit suitable for this evening. You went with a long-sleeved, black, singular, shoulder-strap shirt, along with a pair of stretch-fit, dark-blue, denim jeans and fashionable, yet comfortable, black, slip-on flats. Then, once you'd finished getting ready, you left your room and reluctantly approached the bottom of the stairs - feeling not only uncertain, but uncomfortable also. Would he be charismatic as always? Or would he change back into that creepy, overly-obsessive version of himself?

"Oh (Y/n), you're looking as beautiful as always. Ready to go, my dear?" Hannibal greeted in his usual pleasant tone; sending you yet another one of his gentlemanlike smiles, before kissing his lips lightly against the top of your fingertips.

"Uh...Sure..." You anxiously nodded, staring to the side and feeling oddly on-edge. "So, um..Where are we going this evening...?"

"Oh, nowhere too extravagant." He reassured you endearingly; holding his right hand between your left and leading you towards the house's front doors. "I merely picked out one of my...personal favourite places. It was a little...problematic, to book a reservation on such...short notice, but I still managed to receive one. The restaurant I dialled earlier this evening is called "The Crystal Courtyard"."

"No way...!" You gasped in an awed voice, your eyes widening to the size of saucers as your surprise increased. "Y...You're messing with me...!"

"I'm assuming there's a reason as to why you've suddenly become so surprised?" Hannibal wondered amusingly, looking back at you with devilish entertainment.

"I-It's just...It's just...I've heard unbelievable rumours about that place." You awkwardly mentioned, moving from foot-to-foot and feeling unprepared. "People in the psychiatric hospital always used to say that the only people who could ever book reservations at "The Crystal Courtyard" were nothing short of royalty. That you had to be ridiculously rich to eat there. And that you had to have crazy-high social standing."

"Your point being...?" Switching back into his therapeutic frame of mind, Hannibal patiently waited for your reply; quickly picking up on how fast you were panicking.

"I...It doesn't matter. I'd rather not talk about it. Besides, it's...it's not important." You decided on a whim, shaking your head before opening the front door with your other hand. "Let's just...get to the restaurant, and...not be late to your...generous reservation."

"Very well." After flashing you an understanding smile, he nodded; the both of you leaving the house a second or two later and casually strolling in the direction of the restaurant. "After all, it would be immensely ill-mannered for me to keep you waiting any longer, now wouldn't it?"

You fell silent; not knowing how to answer once you thought back to his previous actions. Because not only had he driven a wedge between you and your friends. Not only had he behaved selfishly and greedily. But his prior words. His former mindset. His coldhearted way of thinking. Gaining what he wanted. That was just...straight-up spite. So how could he...? Glancing into his eyes with bemusement, you felt unusually defensive when he looked back; the psychiatrist's gaze glinting deviously while he immediately took note of your cluelessness and confusion. There was no repentance. None.

And that was what scared you the most.

"(Y/n)...?" Hannibal gently called your name after five or ten minutes; breaking your train of thought and therefore snapping you out of your quiet state. "We're here, mio tesoro. I do apologise if that took longer than you anticipated, however, because it had completely and utterly slipped my mind just how long the journey was."

"No, no, no...It's fine. Really...the journey here was fine." You replied irritably, still feeling moderately betrayed and miserable. "Earlier was just a massive shock for me. I...I didn't see it coming. Not from someone like you. I mean, those were...those were my friends. So...So what you did, I can't just forgive."

"Of course, cara mia. But I would never deliberately hurt you." Your partner loyally declared; giving your right hand a loveable squeeze before running his hand's fingers addictively through your hair. "So please, at least don't forget that. Ever."

"And now I feel like you're just trying to cover your tracks and gloss over the problem, instead of attempting to fix what happened earlier." You retorted stubbornly, doing your best to ignore your glowing-pink cheeks and bubbling heartbeat. "It's as though you're avoiding the topic, rather than merely facing the music. As if you're planning on doing it a second time. So are you...? Are you meaning on behaving like that again...?"

The psychiatrist lapsed into heavy silence himself; continuing to hold your hand whilst he contemplated over your profound way of thinking and your incisive perception. Because, despite your high levels of empathy, you could be extremely insightful sometimes. And to Hannibal, that was stunningly impressive. But he didn't want to agree to what you wanted. He didn't want to share you with others and allow you to socialise with anyone but himself. Your request was almost infuriating to him. Then again, he couldn't risk some sort of...some sort of repeat scenario. Not to mention the intelligent male couldn't gamble with your emotions a second time. He couldn't afford losing you. So for now, he had to play it safe. He had to give in.

"Forgive me if my past words - or my previous actions - somehow gave you that impression." Hannibal murmured regretfully, his right hand now cradling the side of your face and stroking your cheek instead. "It appears as though I've overstepped my boundaries when following through with my recent decision. But believe me, I'd never leave something that hurtful linger on your beloved mind. Nor could I ever brush such an important matter underneath the rug. With that said, I also wouldn't be able to treat you with such high levels of disrespect. You are far too valuable to me. So if you wish for me to leave your future friendships - and overall interaction with humanity - alone, then I shall gladly go along with your demands."

You stiffened at his apology-slash-agreement; still unsure whether or not his words was genuine. Sure your partner had promised Never to hurt you like that again now, and sure he seemed relatively sincere at the moment, but could you really believe him...? You didn't know. This whole day had caused your trust in Hannibal to crumble like a crippled cookie. As if you were correct in creating your overwhelming hostility during your time in that damn psychiatric hospital. However, if you were to accept his current pleasantries, you'd just have to push all that to the side, and secretly watch out for any other...inhumane signs. So you let him guide you inside the restaurant; the waiter showing you both towards your table and helping you pick out your appetisers.

Once you'd eaten those, you then ate your entrées, finishing off with the restaurant's different choices of desserts and eventually feeling full. "Ready to go home, dearest?" Hannibal asked with a kind tone, shifting his attention towards you after tipping the staff and multiple waiters/waitresses. "I genuinely don't mean to rush you, but it is becoming rather late, and you do seem to be growing fairly exhausted."

"You might have a point there, I am beginning to feel pretty tired..." You trailed off after thanking the restaurant's employees; stifling a strongly sleepy yawn before following him to the restaurant's entrance.

"Try to take it easy and relax, you've had a relatively rough day today, Dolcezza." Hannibal advised soothingly, curling his arm fondly around your waist and guiding you towards the building's front doors.

You were about to respond when a heavy rainstorm violently interrupted you; the unexpected downpour flooding the streets and causing you to wearily sigh. Of course the weather would mess up this late at night. Of course it would be uncontrollable rain. And of course it would break out when you'd forgotten to bring a raincoat. But what were you two supposed to do about it...? Wait it out? Call a cab? You knew Hannibal wouldn't want to walk home in such abysmal weather, but would he have a plan...? Because despite your distrust and scepticism - you knew he wouldn't abandon you, or leave you behind. Even if you wanted him to.

"Oh man, is it raining again...?" You brought up unhappily, biting your lip as you and him left the establishment together. "I can't believe this...! It only rained a few days ago. I...I guess the weather where you live is way worse than where the psychiatric hospital's located."

"Well, you're certainly not wrong." He chuckled in a joking tone, looking up at the dark sky and becoming aware of the bad elements as well. "But under no circumstances would I ever let you face such cold weather by yourself."

"Well what other option do we have...?" You pointed out helplessly, shivering from the cold while you started to make your way home. "The weather is dreadful, I don't have any money to help pay for any sort of services, I know for a fact that you wouldn't usually walk home in this, so I'm 100% out of—"

"Agnellino, agnellino, relax. There's absolutely no reason you should allow this deplorable downpour to ruin our lovely time together." Speaking in a soft and soothing tone of voice, Hannibal stopped you from completely losing it; his sweet mannerisms defusing the stressful situation.

"Alright...So then what other choices do you have planned...?" You suspiciously retaliated, crossing your arms and flicking your head to the side whilst you tried to act as if the cold didn't bother you. "You can't tell me that you'd actually walk home in this."

"While I agree that dealing with such unpleasant weather is generally not in my best interests, I'd never approve of you suffering through so much rain without any sort of shielding or protection." Hannibal commented with a compassionate smile; undoing his suit's jacket before then taking it off altogether.

"Hannibal...? W-What are you—?" You couldn't even finish, your eyes widening due to surprise and your heartbeat thrashing through the metaphorical roof once you'd realised what he was intending to do. "Wait—!"

"My sincere apologies if this doesn't stop all of the rain from making you wet, but it should at least stop you and your gorgeous face from becoming completely and utterly soaked." He decided politely; placing his suit's jacket carefully around your shoulders and therefore toying with your emotions.

After all, weren't you supposed to be mad at him...? "But...But what about you!?" You curiously questioned; his caring gesture causing you to doubt your feelings and grow faintly reluctant. Could you REALLY hate him? Could you REALLY leave him behind? And where would you go...? He'd just find you regardless. Besides, despite his dark - and disturbingly ludicrous - beliefs, Hannibal had saved you several amount of times, in numerous different ways. Still though...

"This...This doesn't change anything, y'know." You muttered to the psychiatrist icily; glaring down at the ground with more mistrust while you avoided his eyes and cuddled into his jacket. "What you did...How you acted...This date won't make me just forgive-and-forget. I'm...I'm still angry with you."

Once you'd uttered those words and continued staring at the pavement, you expected him to become somewhat agitated - or at the very least, show some sort of unbalanced reaction. But...Hannibal simply smiled; wrapping his arm around your waist before planting an unpredicted and unanticipated kiss intricately upon your forehead. Then, he said:

"I understand, angelo mio."