Chapter Text
Vivi had been sneezing and dusting pollen off herself for the past twenty minutes.
She got covered when the flower spirit they were dealing with imploding and shot out seeds and pollen everywhere, to the point where she was an entire mint green! It didn’t bother her much (except for being slightly itchy) while they were cleaning up, when disposing of the spirits remains, while talking to the clients again and sparing a few jokes after the catastrophe, nor did it stop Vivi and Arthur from laughing over it when they made their way to the van. Vivi spent at least five minutes furiously shaking out her skirt and dumping out the dust in her socks, letting Mystery have enough time to shield himself from the pollen in the backseat, but no matter how much she shook off her clothes, the pollen never fully left.
Long since the jokes and laughter, Vivi was now huffing from irritation and wiping her nose angrily.
“Jesus Christ.” Vivi hisses, and Arthur spares her a sympathetic glance. She’s wiping one of the crumpled napkins against her cheek, and flakes of green particles fly off and out the window. Arthur didn’t even want to think about how much was stuck to the van because of it. Although it’s better that way, Mystery’s complaining dropped when the window opened since little fell on him now. Vivi groans again and grabs his attention fully. Discarding the sticky napkin, Vivi looks up at him.
“Good news or bad news first.”
That’s what he was afraid of... Arthurs fingers instinctively tighten around the wheel, wincing ever so slightly.
“Hit me with the bad news.”
“Okay,” Vivi swallows thickly and clears her throat, “I think the pollen blast is making me sick.”
“What? Like allergies or something?” Arthur asks, looking from the road to Vivi’s face. Under the darkness of night, he could hardly see the twinge of red growing across her face, but he feels it as he presses his fleshy palm to her forehead. Vivi winces and Arthur’s pulling away fast. “Sorry, shoulda’ warned you-“
“It’s alright, your hand is cold though.”
“- but you do feel warm. You did get hit the most, so maybe sickness is a symptom to the pollen blast?” Arthur says, wondering where the thermometer was in the van. If he wasn’t ‘preoccupied’ driving, he would have told Mystery to start searching. Although part of him really didn’t want to disturb Mystery’s nap, especially since he just fell asleep in the back. “It-It probably be better to get off the road then. We could get a hotel for a little bit so you can ride it out?”
“And then what about the next case?” Vivi asks. Although she must have not cared too much about the clients who they secured before they even finished their previous case, since Vivi pulls up a map on her phone and searches for shelter.
Arthur waved the consideration off. “I’ll call them. I’m sure they’ll understand that we can’t come in with illness afoot.”
Vivi nods in agreement. “Especially since we don’t know what it is! The pollen could be a mutation and will slowly take over my body-“
“Don’t say that.”
Vivi snorts and pats Arthur’s leg. “You know I’m playing.”
Snickering as well, Arthur gives her a look. “Still, I don’t wanna think about it.”
There’s a few green signs lining the road, and Arthur leans over the wheel to see if they were signally truck stops or fast food.
“Find a place, yet?” Arthur asks. “I can probably call the people and let them know the situation while we use your phone as a GPS.”
“Well, we’re in luck,” Vivi says, yawning the smallest bit. “There’s a motel a few miles after the next turn, and they seem to have two rooms available. I can call them and snag a room.”
“Could you? I’d appreciate it.”
Vivi first makes her call. Sadly, the website was wrong, and the only room available had only one bed. Vivi and Arthur wrestled over the idea for a few seconds before agreeing to take it on the condition that they bring in their travel futon. The GPS is set up and then Arthur has the right away to call the new clients.
Clients who then proceeded to cancel on them since they would take too long to get there. Arthur rolled his eyes serval times while answering the questions, and recommended several more investigators who could come and give them a hand. Leaning against her door, Vivi tiredly listened in with amusement.
Finally, Arthur hangs up. “Well, fuck. What a bunch of assholes.” He says amongst other grumbles.
“Oh yeah? Did one call you a bitch again?” Vivi asks, hoping to lighten the mood.
“No, although they were thinking it, that’s for sure. Can't say I blame them though.”
“Neither can I!” Vivi sinks in her seat, eyes hardly open. “Ghost infestations are no joke, but we’ve been working constantly, so we deserve to miss a single case.”
Arthur shrugs, unsure about the sentiment. “I guess. Although, how are you feeling? Any better?”
Vivi chuckles again, heading lulling to the side. “Fuck no, I am getting car sick though.”
Arthurs frown deepens, and he pats her knee softly. “I’m sorry, Vi. Just a few more minutes, we’ll be there soon.”
He hopes that she’ll believe him, but he glances over as she giggles.
Vivi’s looking back at him with a shit-eating grin, glancing at the GPS. “Say’s twenty minutes, Artie~”
“Well-!” He shoots her a dirty look that meant nothing, and he fumbles in his head before he clears his throat. ”Well, you could try and take a small nap. Mystery’s sleeping, and twenty minutes isn’t too long of a time.”
Vivi says nothing, and after a moment Arthur notices and glances over. Vivi’s nose is tucked against her scarf, and her knees were brought up like she’s sitting on a couch, eyes shut and snores building.
A smile slowly creeps along Arthur's face, and he nods to himself. “Perfect, just like that. Sleep tight, Vivi.”
She didn’t hear that, and Arthur knows it, but he doesn’t think too much about it.
The motel appears a bit sooner than Arthur expected, although he’s not complaining about getting off the road. Following routine for most of their other cases, he turns in and parks in the leftest corner spot.
When he does, he looks over expectantly. Normally she would have woken up when they turned, cracking open an eye and grin before jabbing him in the side ‘for good luck.’ When he looks over, Vivi is still nestled in her little cocoon, although her arm fell at once point and now awkwardly laid beside her.
Arthur’s tempted to take a photo, and he does. And as soon as it’s saved, he’s cutting the engine and pressing a hand to Vivi’s forehead tenderly. She’s still warm, and definitely snoring, but she doesn’t budge still.
Arthur nods to himself, “tell you this, Vivi,” He starts, talking in a whisper, “I’ll pay for the room, and then try and wake you again. If you’re still sleeping then I’ll just wake Mystery up and tell him to watch you. And if you still don’t wake up I’ll just...” he lightly claps his knee, “I’ll carry you in.”
And it happened almost exactly like that. Arthur has an awkward conversation and forks over two hundred, and then he’s shaking Vivi’s shoulder. Her head only lulls to the side. Must be really worn out...
Then Arthur unlocks the door and starts unloading everything from the back seat, waking Mystery in the process. The dog helps Arthur with a lot of the futon, blankets and bags, but Arthur limited it to just that, along with some food to munch on in the middle of the night. Vivi would like it, who knows how hungry she gets when sick.
It’s only when Arthur opens the door to the motel and feels a chilly wind hit his neck, does he notice Vivi stirring in the van. Her eyes clenched shut and going through the lengthy process of stretching her limbs. Arthur almost knocks on her window to scare her awake. But he passes by her. Vivi would have seen him and knew he was there, Arthur’s sure. Although that confidence is pulled into question as soon as he pulls open the vans metal door, and Vivi’s eyes snap back to meet his. Her body is twisted and all too stiff now. Arthur hastily waved at her.
“Hey Vi, sorry for not waking you earlier. I was kinda counting on you sleeping though the night.” Arthur admits, crawling into the van. It shifts back and forth due to their wavering weights, but Arthur ignores it to make his way to their ‘mini fridge’ and pulls out granola bars, water bottles, and trail mix. It’s something.
“Counting on it?” Vivi repeats, stretching again harder, “trying to skip out on nap time?”
“Vivi you’re sick.” Arthur groans, but she makes a noise to silence him. Now awake enough, Vivi doubles over the seat and snags the bag of raisin cookies and ramen buried under several red and brown cans. Which then toppled onto Arthur’s hands. He sighs, “and now I mean literally too.”
“Oops, my bad. But I’m the leader, so no matter how sick I am, you still gotta force me up so I can help, dummy.” Vivi says between a new wave of sniffles, before she’s twisting and around and leaving the van, shutting the door with her hip. Arthur imagines her running inside. Although the click, click, click, of Vivi’s shoes warned him that she wasn’t before her voice did. “... Also I’m not sick. I don’t feel super sick, anyway.” Vivi says, pouting as she scans for anything to take in. “Coulda done something.”
Arthur rolls his eyes with a hefty laugh and scoots out until his feet touch the ground. To which he smirks at Vivi and flicks her forehead. She hisses and glares.
“Point taken. Fuck you.”
“See? Now the best thing you can do for me is march your happy ass inside. It’s cold, Vivi.”
“And yet im the one in a sweater!” She lightly kicks him in the butt before accepting her fate and walking to the room. Slowly at first, before Vivi halts and looks back at him with a devious grin. Knowing something he didn’t know.
Oh boy, what’s this going to be?
“I call dibs on the futon!” And with that Vivi smiles and sprints inside, and leaping onto... the floor. Arthur winces as he watches her wipeout through the windowpane.
“Well, shit,” Arthur hums to himself, rubbing his eyes while he laughs. Arthur closes the van and checks all the locks, then he’s stepping inside and peering around the half made bed to see Vivi slumped on the futon, stomach down. Her leg is hiked and a blanket poorly covering her lower half. Her shoes were still on! Arthur kneels beside her and braces himself on the bed beside them. Fishing out her legs from the blanket, Arthur undoes the strap of Vivi’s shoes and sets them aside.. Should he remove anything else? He eyes her glasses, sitting toppled and awkward between her face and the pillow. Her headband was only slightly twisted, and scarf was still bunched, her socks looked ready to slink off...
Arthur’s eyes drift down to her rear, and he finally noticed how weird this felt. Shivering, Arthur leaned over and plucked the glasses off her face, setting it down on the floor next to them for later, along with her headband. Just as Arthur is about to flip Vivi over to hoist her up, a voice yips behind his head. “Arthur.”
Arthur yelps and doubles forward at the sudden sensation of dog breath on his neck, Mystery rolls his eyes. “What are you doing?”
“Shit-! Since when we’re you there?”
“I’ve been here.”
“Oh.”
“Now if I must reiterate, what are you doing?”
Arthur shuffles uncomfortably, turning to face the dog in the eye. Mystery takes the hint and backs up some so there is more space. Which doesn’t stop him from quirking an eyebrow to urge Arthur on.
“I’m just-“ Arthur braces himself against the bed before attempting to pick Vivi up again, and standing up when he finally had a good grip, “-trying to get Vivi into bed.”
“She called dibs.”
“I know she did,” Arthur steps around the short of the bed and lays her on the unoccupied half, snagging a blanket from under Mystery and covering her with it. “But we don’t always get what we want.”
“So you’ll be on the futon tonight, right?” Mystery ask. Arthur covers Vivi with the blanket then works on removing his own shoes, plopping down on the futon to fully unlace them.
“Yep. Try to not step on me, got it?”
“It’s never on purpose.” Mystery watches him carefully, “I’m assuming you’ll need me to get the light?”
“Shit -Can you?” Arthur slips off his vest, pushing himself up fast, “never mind, I got it.”
The dog sighs, resting his head down while Arthur pads across the room to lock the door and closes the curtains. The lights flick off and a stream of moonlight replaces it, but all in all Arthur is submerged into a dark blueness. However, he turns his head and catches sight of Vivi sprawled on the bed, his breath hitched. Vivi’s hair drapes over her cheek and the pillow, framing her face and highlighting how peaceful she looked. It’s more comforting than he expected, and he watches her for a few moments more.
Until a thought grips him by the neck. He probably shouldn’t be ogling her like that while she’s sleeping. That’s creepy. He’ll have all day to admire her beauty tomorrow, but now is not the dark.
Now in the dark and purposefully looking at the wall opposite to Vivi, Arthur feels along the bed to find the futon. Lightly grazing the soft blanket and mystery’s paw, Arthur makes out the darker rectangle on the ground. Arthur crawls on top of the futon and lays down. Crossing his arms in a lounge and lays his head on his hands, staring at the ceiling and… sniffing the air? Arthur’s eyebrows furrowed together as he notes of an oddly sweet smell somewhere around them. Mystery had just glanced over when he had. Quirking an eyebrow, Mystery says, “What are you doing-“
“Do you smell that?” Holding up a hand, Arthur rolls himself up and looks around his small space. Mystery’s eyebrows furrow and sniffs himself. Amongst the sweat, the faint grime, and clothes that definitely needed to be washed, there's a deep, vanilla enriched smell that drifted among the room. It’s faint, very faint, but definitely there.
That must have been it, but Mystery cocks his head and entertains Arthur furthur. “What smell, exactly? If you’re talking about your feet, then yes I do.”
Arthur glares at him. “No, I know I stink but I keep them clean, so fuck off. It’s like a“- Arthur wafts the air toward his face, “-a kitcheny smell? I swear it’s like something Lew used to make-“
“The vanilla?”
“Yes, that one.”
Mystery snickers, before nodding his head to the woman snoring beside him. “Neither of you have taken a bath since we stopped, and Vivi had been coated head to toe in pollen. I’m sure you can put it together.”
“Yeah, but it’s been hours. Why would it start smelling now?”
“It was also a spirit’s pollen,” Mystery points out, “that could be one of its effects.”
Arthur’s lips tighten and he lays back down. “I’m not sure how much I like that.”
“Figures, but she should be fine. Give her time to shower in the morning and I’m sure she’ll be more than chipper.”
Arthur nods and rolls over.
Vivi fell into a deep sleep almost the second she hit the futon earlier, slipping into a deep dark void, surrounding her in a nearly comforting warmth. Vivi didn’t think that the deep sleep would betray her and fill her mind with dreams. Usually she wouldn’t have any type of dreams…
But tonight was different.
Really different.
Stradling your best friend's lap with his fingers up your ass different .
Knees on either side of Arthur's legs, Vivi sat needily in his lap, leaning close and pressing her chest against his, lips ghosting against his for a desperate kiss. All while Arthur's fingertips slide between her warm labia.
Vivi's face flushes with a gasp, gripping the man's puffy vest tightly. Letting out a shuddery breath, Vivi buries her face against his neck, hiding against the nape of his neck and hanging off his shoulders. Arthurs chuckle vibrates through his neck, and another shiver courses down her spine. Forcing her back into more of an arch, and pressing down onto those delicious fingers.
"Th-this good, Vi?" Arthur whispers against her ear, slipping her soaked panties to the slide.
"F-fuck yeah," Vivi hums, a shiver starting at the base of her spine and rocketing her higher in his lap. He laughs again, grabbing her butt over her skirt, before sneaking his palm under and pulling her undies down, just enough to grope untouched skin. "God- Artie...! When's the last time you did this?"
"Surprised?"
"A little bit." It was so much, rolling her hips down on the long digits, relishing the teases against her hole. Each motion shot a wave up her body. Her sweater and scarf became too warm all at once. But could she just take them off? Right here? In the garage?
The lamp was still on, dimly flickering and providing a honey colored backdrop against the dull browns and red bricks around them. The windows were dark with night time, and the only thing blocking the view of the two horny bastards was the single car left abandoned halfway through maintenance. The chair they were in, well, Arthur was in, squeaked and groaned under their collective weight. Someone could easily peer in or wander into the garage, and Vivi's ass would be on full display.
Although, god, the thought was enticing enough. Who knew she was this much of a voyeur.
"Hey, Vivi." Arthurs tone changed, lighter, and Vivi's attention snapped quickly when his warm fingers moved away and left her horribly [word]. Keeping her hold on Arthur's shoulders, Vivi leans back. She's met with a grin, a sneaky smirk, and Vivi's heart jumps as Arthur's hands grab underside of her knees and hoisting her up as he stands. Lifting her up without much of a problem and then plopping her on his desk. He reaches around her and shoves papers and pens and even his computer to the side, letting them clatter to the floor while he smiles at her. He palms her knees, spreading them easily. "Ready?"
Nodding breathlessly, Vivi follows the blond hair as he sinks to the ground into a kneel, pushing her legs apart until the only thing between his lips and her vagina was the wet panties he panted against. And Arthur wouldn't stop breathing against it in heavy, hot huffs. The tremble in her leg shoots out as his nose presses against her clit, a moan drawing out.
"This already? You dirty dog."
"Only for you~"
Vivi’s eyes pop open, and the first thought that runs through her head is what the fuck.
Did- did that really just happen? Her brain loops, focusing on the explicit detail and the squelch between her legs. If she wasn’t already blushing, a wave of warmth burns through her cheeks.
She... she really had a wet dream about Arthur. Vivi blinks and shifts lightly, able to tell what the slickness was now. A really... interesting dream...
Dammit..! Why this again? This is stupid! part of her wants to smack herself, but her arms ache from the heavy lifting from yesterday. Theres no reason for her to be this horny. None at all. And not for-! ...
Eyebrows furrowing, Vivi buried her face in the pillow. No, makes sense. Arthur pretty much dumped-... isnt your boyfriend. Even if it seemed that way, he’s super insistent...
So no sex. None at all. It’s not like she packed a vibrator either, so of course it would build until it exploded like this.
Maybe she can get out for the night, drink a little bit. It wouldn’t be that hard to have a one night stand... She hoped. They only wanted to rent the room for about two nights, at max! No time to run off just to get railed...!
Gulping, Vivi fists the pillow she was clutching- almost hugging- and takes a moment to take in her surroundings.
The motel room. The window is partially drawn, with light pouring in. Mystery wasnt in her line of sight. A weird smell permeated through the room, and she could hardly tell what it was.
Running water- the shower. Arthurs showering...
Thank god. Vivi sighs in relief, moving her arms to prop herself up. The last thing she wanted was for him to see her like this... she should grab some fresh underwear and maybe slip into some pants in the van-
A weight slips off her shoulders, and Vivi glances over her shoulder.
...
That... mother fucker! she scowls, reaching over to the bed stand and snagging her glasses. Kicking the blanket off roughly and off the fucking bed! She TOLD him that she would sleep in the futon.. that asshole... Grinding her teeth, Vivi could already imagine tying arthurs arms behind his back and forcing him to lay down on their one bed so that way he can get a decent nap for once in his life.
Wobbling on her feet, Vivi vocally huffs and marches to the bathroom door. Face scrunched with annoyance. To her left, she barely noticed Mystery’s ears popping up, nor did she hear his voice as he clears his throat and stands.
Vivi lifts her fist, prepared to break the damn door down, and readies herself to knock...!
Just before her knuckles hit the wooden door, she freezes. Her entire body tensing up as her dream slams into her like a ton of bricks.
Arthur.. he’s showering right now, right? She blinks, flushing as the image of lean muscle and chest hair flashes across her mind. His slender, defined hips. His treasure trail that was a dark brunette-
His... package...
What if he’s leaning against the wall, letting water run down his hair and drip along his face. Taking soft, hazy breaths. Unaware of anyone watching and lightly massaging himse- washing his hair!
Squeaking, Vivi backs away from the door. Clasping her head lightly as the thought of him stretching his arms above his head and lifting his chin to reveal all of himself zips across her mind.
Fuck. Fuck! What’s wrong with me?
“Vivi-!” Mystery grumbles, nudging her thigh and spooking Vivi out of her vivid fantasies.
“What?” Vivi shoots back, voice cracking as she forces herself to be quieter- not wanting to disturb-
Mystery slinks past her and uses his entire body to push against her legs. “You need to lay down, it’s dangerous for you to be up and moving like this.”
“Dangerous?” Vivi flinches away at the feeling of mystery’s fur against her thighs, “what are you talking about?”
“Youre under a heat curse!” mystery says, growling lightly as he buts her knee again.
Vivi freezes, eyes widening as the words sink in.
"A heat curse...?
“... That explains a lot...” she mumbles after a moment of silence, before laughing and scratching the back of her damp neck, “Thank god. I was worried for a moment..”
“Vivi, please just lay down.” Mystery says, glaring at her with a grimace, “it’s perfectly natural for humans to get aroused like that. A heat curse, however, is especially dangerous and even more so for you.”
It’s her turn to frown, and she huffs with her hands on her hips. “Thank you but I’ll be fine, Mystery.” She turns on her heel, taking confident and wobbly strides to the front door, “I made plenty of capsules to nullify these types of curses, so I’ll just grab those, and everything will be fine.”
“That’s - that doesn’t matter! Arthur or I can bring them to you, but you can’t push yourself lest you’ll spur it’s effects-“
Blowing a raspberry, Vivi waves him off.
Outside, the wind is breezy. Fluttering past her and ruffling her skirt and sweater and making her shiver at the sensation against her skin. Its nice that it’s cold.. maybe it’ll be worth it to just sit outside while the capsules kick in? Vivi hums to herself, opening the van doors easily and crawling inside- although far from unaware of how the wind made her... damper parts all the more sensitive.
Even if the smell is ... attractive, it’s not like random strangers will try and assault her out here. If they did? Vivi wouldn’t hesitate to slam her heel into their chins.
Although it’s... kinda strong. Vivi sniffs the air lightly, and shudders as the Cotten candy like scent surrounded her. Whatever. It’s fine. As long as she takes a capsule she’ll be fine-
Vivi pulls out the crate caring their various medications, and especially her potions and handmade capsules – made especially for these types of situations. But as she starts to dig through the various pill bottles, she quickly finds the one she’s looking for, and pulls out the small wooden box. Smiling triumphantly, she opens the box up.
Only for her eyes to widen. Horror rushing through her as she stares. The nullification capsule box was empty. Not a single capsule left, mind for some crumbly dust.
“..What?” Vivi could feel her breath pick up, but she ignored it, picking up a second wooden box and searching through it.
Only to find none of the back ups that she was sure to have.
Fuck. Vivi’s breath picks up, blinking quickly as a haze settled in her vision. She pants breathlessly, mouth stuck open as she scratches a hand through her hair, Fuck!
The smell- holy shit it’s strong..! It’s surrounding her and filling her lungs like a thick fog- if it was already this bad then it must be spreading.. How long has she been heated? Did she just not notice?
Her thighs tense, and the uncomfortable wetness becomes all the more apartment as warmth picks up all through her. Under her knees, under her breasts and biceps... a weakness grabbing her like a net. Vivi couldn’t budge! unable to even reach back and push down her skirt-
Oh no, oh no, no, no, no. Fucking Christ- what if other patrons start to smell her too? What if they come out and investigate and find her all alone in the van with only a thin clothe covering her delicates-
That can’t happen. Nope. She won’t let it! Vivi sucks in her breath, and forces her arms to cooperate, slowly walking her hands to the shelves beside her, and trying to use it as a support to stand up.
Only for another wave of dizziness to strike. Vivi sinks back on her knees, head hanging back. Panting heavily from everything happening.
Okay. Okay fine. This is fine... It wasn’t. Vivi knew it wasn’t. Killing her head to the side, a water jug catches her eye.
Best thing to do for now is stay cool...
Scratch scratch scratch scratch scratch-
Arthur cringes, grimacing lightly as he flares at the shower curtain, and by proxy, the door. Mystery has been barking nonstop for the past few minutes. Incessantly too!
At first Arthur brushed it off as Vivi playing with him and mystery ‘requiring’ Arthurs assistance in getting a treat or playing mediator. But he hasn’t heard Vivi’s typical laugh that would follow suit...
After rinsing himself off, Arthur twists the nozzle off, and pulls back the curtains.
The door was still locked, and his clothes were haphazardly draped along the toilet, along with his bag for hygiene. No mop of blue hair in sight, or red collar, or anything that would help him figure out what the fuck is going on.
Scratch scratch scratch scratch-
“I hear you Mystery!” Arthur says, running his fingers through his hair to get the water out.
“Then get dressed and get out here!” Mystery barks, “Vivi needs your help!”
Freezing, Arthur’s shoulders drop.
Oh no.
Within minutes he had his clothes on, and he slams open the door. Scanning over the room- disheveled bed- half drawn window- their bags along the corner.
No Vivi.
No Vivi?
Mystery barks, jolting Arthur out of his thoughts with a lot more force than his poor heart wished.
“Dont just stand there! Vivi’s in danger.”
”What?” Arthur nearly chokes on his gasp, ducking past mystery and reaching for his phone, starting to dial her number out of habit, “What happened? I was in the shower for thirty minutes!”
Mystery roughly headbutts him, “Put that down. Vivi is in the van right now.”
...
Arthur shoots him a look, his wet hair still dripping, “She’s in the van...? What did she trip or something?” He didn’t mean for it to come out as mean as it did. Mystery didn’t particularly care for it, eyebrows furrowing with anger.
“She’s under a heat curse, Arthur. Go get her and help her inside. The heat could kill her.”
...
A heat? Arthur could feel himself pale. A sense of dread shooting into him. “H-how strong is it?” He asks, side stepping around Mystery and racing for the door.
Mystery is on his tail, “Stronger than it should be.”
Shit. Then was it because of last night? The pollen-!
Throwing open the door, Arthur dashes out. He hardly notices how the van shifts lightly, but before his brain could list off the worst of the worst, he’s yanking open the back doors.
He flinches as Vivi yelps and yells.
Shit it is bad...
Vivi’s on her hands and knees, twisted around and awkwardly shielding herself with her legs and hands. All of her noticeable skin was flushed, and he clothes were more or less disheveled. The smell that seemed to have followed around them was swarming his head, and Arthur couldn’t help the blush he felt.
But he shoves it down, shoves it all down.
Because Vivi was looking at him in terror.
“Vivi,” his hand is waving, and he’s starting to lean in before he forces himself to keep a distance, “M-mystery told me what’s happening. With the heat- he says you need to get inside. Pronto.” He gulps anxiously and shuffles in his spot, debating on if the next thing is even appropriate, “I’m not- if you’re thinking I’m going to t-touch - or hurt you in anyway, I promise that’s not going to happen. I would rather cut my dick off than do that to you.”
Vivi takes a ragged breath, looking from him to what was beside her- a water jug, opened- and Arthur faintly notices the dribble down her chin- stop looking.
Arthur debates climbing in, to comfort her, anything, but the logical part of him tells him to stay put. “Vivi-“
“P-promise?”
“Huh?” He cranes his neck but doesn’t climb in, “what was that?”
Vivi shuffles back, moving onto her knees and pulling her skirt down over her legs. “That you won’t.. do anything to me...” she glares weakly, “I’ll kill you if you do-“
“No!” He says, louder than he meant to, and he forces himself to be quiet when he sees he flinch back, “no. Vivi, I promise I will not hurt you in any way. I want to keep you safe, above all else.” The mere though had his stomach churning, and he shivered in revolt, before he glances over his shoulder.
None of the other patrons doors had opened. Meaning either no one was in there, or they weren’t bothered by the smell. Arthur takes a deep breath and looks back at Vivi. “But, we’re going to have to camp out here for the time being. Until the heat as passed. I-... I would rather you stay inside the motel. I-I don’t know about the other people here, but Mystery and I will make sure that nothing happens to you.
Vivi visibly gulps, before she nods curtly. Averting her gaze, she pushes herself on her palms and tries to get to her feet-
Only for her knees to buckle, hitting her knees with a hiss.
Arthur braces himself and finally leans in. The smell was stronger the closer he got, and as he stretches his arm past her to snag the jug, it was overwhelmingly dizzy. He bites his tongue- Vivi froze when she noticed him so close, and Arthur kept his eyes away as he fished it out.
Retreating back to a proper distance, he sighs quietly. “Here, I can help you inside. Just...” he glances to the window, noticing immediately that Mystery is watching him, “hook your arm around my neck, Okay?”
Vivi gulps, and after a moment of awkward shuffling, her feet are on the ground, and she’s pressed directly against his side. She’s panting even more, and as Arthur hooks his arm around hers, he could see why.
She was radiating warmth. Even more so with her sweater still on...
It has to be painful at this point.
“Okay, easy does it..” he murmurs, taking a few slowly steps and waiting for her to follow.
Thankfully, she manages to open the door and lets them in.
As they step inside, Mystery immediately looped around to Vivi’s side, watching her worriedly Arthur lead her to the bed. Slowly. Vivi was wobbling badly and her movements became more and more sluggish and heavy. That was even more apparent as she pauses and leans into him, head dropping down.
“S-s..orry..”
“It’s okay, we’re almost there.” She was burning now. Jesus christ why is it so bad for her? It didn’t effect him this much when it happened to him! Then again-
He doesn’t entertain the thought, nor the memory. Instead, he twists them both around and helps peel Vivi off of him, letting her slump onto the bed like a bag of flour. Eyes clenched shut, Vivi curls the smallest bit, and pushes herself to let her head flop on the pillow.
“Thank you, Arthur.” Mystery says, hopping onto the bed beside her. Arthur can’t help but flinch.
“W-wait, Mystery what are you-“
The dog turns and grimaces, “what do you think I’m doing?”
“Well-!” He gestures to Vivi animatedly, unaware that Vivi was now watching them both.
Mystery rolls his eyes. “Banish the thought. I dealt with enough of these curses in my life that I took preventative measures to allow myself to ignore its effects.” He says calmly, before adding on, “I’m not going to take advantage of my child.”
“... Okay, fair enough.” Arthur clears his throat, glancing at both of them, “So... you said that Vivi can die from this? How do we stop it.”
Mystery nods, “she’s a creature of ice, you must remember that. The heat is raising her temperature to an uncontrollable degree, and will most likely continue to do so until it hits its peak. So to prevent a heatstroke, Vivi needs to stay as cool as possible for the remainder of the week.”
“Remainder of the week...” Arthur swallows and glances over at the far wall, where a thermostats was. He briskly walks over and changes the temperature from a 70 to a 43 degree fahrenheit. “Well... fuck.” Arthur says, mostly to himself, as he glared at the wall.
Vivi hasn’t said anything, although he could hear her panting still... This must be awful for her..
Arthur spins on his heel. “Okay, so Vivi has to keep cool right? Then we’ll just have to make it as cold as possible in here, no biggie.” He starts to march over to the switches, flipping one and listening to the creak as the old fan begun to spin. “There’s two more smaller fans in the van. Let me grab that- and I’ll go talk to the person at the front desk and tell them that we’ll be here for a while. Okay?”
When he turns, he notices Vivi isn’t looking at him, her legs brought up and arms crossed. He deflated a bit.
“Alright Arthur, we’ll be here.” Mystery says.
Arthur claps lightly, before heading out the door. Mystery stays quiet for a few moments before turning to Vivi.
“Something wrong? You’re unusually silent.”
“I feel like shit.”
“Is it because of the heat?”
“N-...” Vivi nearly snarls, before the sudden wave of anger subsided, “probably. But it’s... more than that.”
Mystery nods and folds his paws, “well, we’re alone for a moment. Why don’t you tell me what is on your mind.”
Vivi recoils some more, “I.. I threatened Arthur. And I told him I would kill him if he forced me to do something because of the heat.”
“Oh my.”
“But-! I- I didn’t what to say all that!” She says, twisting around and wiping sweat off her cheeks, “And when he helped me inside I just- I couldn’t think of anything to say besides...” she tries to think of something before the flush in her cheeks doubled and she pointedly stares at the wall. “Something about sex. And honestly that’s all I can think about right now. I don’t... I don’t know how I’m going to get through this week.. it’s so fucking hot, and my clothes are bothering me but I don’t- I don’t want to be weird because Arthurs also going to be sleeping in here and-!” She grabs at her head, gripping her hair and starting to pull.
Mystery nips at her hand.
Ripping it back, Vivi hisses and bares her teeth with a mighty glare, “ow! What was that for?”
“I never thought I’d have to say this but your mind is getting the best of you.” Mystery says while straightening up, Vivi shrinks back a bit and makes a point to look away. “Deep breaths, Vivi. I understand your alarm, but we cannot accomplish anything if you’re panicking.”
Vivi’s nose crinkles and she slumps, crossing her arms and legs. “I guess… still, it won’t magically make it easier.”
Crossing his paws, Mystery lays down, “then allow me to walk you through it. What are you feeling currently?”
Her cheeks warm. Glaring at him from over her shoulder, Vivi grumbles. “Hot, wet, miserable, horny.”
“My.”
The warming doesn't stop, and Vivi shakes her head roughly as waves of tension course through her neck and muscle. When she stops, she’s pulling off her scarf and discarding it alongside her. “I don’t know what to do about Arthur. I-... don’t tell him this, but I really like him. I even asked him out a few times before we left, and each time he told me no because of some mysterious other boyfriend I supposedly have!”
Not wanting to interrupt, Mystery crosses his paws and tilts his head.
Vivi scratches her arms and fidgets. “I don’t really remember who the guy even is but-... Fuck, I don’t know. I’ve been into Arthur ever since I met him, and I like him a lot, so now I’m going to be stuck in a cramped motel wanting to fuck. And the only guy who can maybe help me is A... my crush.” She glances to the door, almost expecting to see the man pop in. “And B, doesn’t like me back. So! It’s...” Her teeth grind loud enough for Mystery to hear, gripping her fingers like she was squeezing a ball until she deflated all together. “Shitty, I feel really shitty right now.”
Mystery nods, “Understandably so. I can't imagine this is easy for you, or him.” Vivi stifles a whine, more than aware of how tense it’s going to be for him. “The best thing you can do is to hold off and keep your mind occupied.”
At that moment, Mystery’s ears perk up as Arthurs orange vest flashes through the window, and Vivi freezes with a sharp inhale. Mystery clears his throat, “If you need to, I can get him out of the room for a while so that way you can manage your Arousal yourself.”
She laughs, but her face is still twisted in a grimace. “Back to the shower head, I guess.”
“That’s the spirit.”
The door opens, and Arthur awkwardly crams himself through the door with two fans under his arms. They’re on the smaller side but still bulky. He briefly nods at them before making circuits in the floor and heading for the window, “Okay, so I was thinking...” he props one up, plugging it in and aiming the fan at Vivi, before turning with the other to the bed-side table and setting it up. Whatever he wanted to say was stuck in his throat, and it became more than apparent when he stands at the end of her bed and struggles to keep Vivi’s gaze. “Uh… Vivi,” He gulps and fidgets, “I am… I’m sorry if this is inappropriate, or weird, but I was…?”
Mystery lifts a brow and Vivi draws her knees close to her. “Yes?”
Arthur groans, rubbing the back of his neck as he searches for the words. “S-so! I actually dealt with a heat curse a long time ago? And- like I said, you don’t have to, j-just throwing it out there, it… helped to not wear anything?”
“... Are you saying I should get naked?”
“N-not-!” Arthur hakes his hands and shakes his head furiously in equal measure, “Not fully nude! If you don’t want to! But like… down to your underwear.” No matter what he added or said, his own face seemed to warm considerably, “I-if you want I can grab your pajamas and then we can - well- ah… you know?”
Vivi’s eyebrows furrow, “... I- will you be okay with that? Arthur I don’t want you to be uncomfortable-”
“I’ll be fine.”
“I also don’t want you to have to sleep in the van all week.”
Arthur tightens his lips. Shit, so that was what he was planning.
“Uh…” Vivi chews on her lip, “I mean- I’ll think about it, I think for now I’ll be fine-”
Mystery clears his throat and rests his head down, “and yet you were saving the contrary-” He’s cut off with a quick smack to the nose, and he grumbles.
“Shut. Up.” Vivi growls at him, then switches back to Arthur, “I-I’m just saying! It doesn’t … if it gets bad? Maybe! But I mean it when I say I don’t want you to have to sit outside for the whole week, Arthur.”
He shuffles uncomfortably, but nods, “w-well, I was… I do want to keep you safe, and I feel the best way to do that would be to stay in here..”
Vivi lets out a pleased, triumphant noise, “glad that’s settled-” A sudden pain fires off in her abdomen. Vivi’s eyes twitch as she instinctively holds her breath and pressing her hands to the mattress. From the corner of her eye Mystery and Arthur both jump in alarm, and she shakes a hand to stop them from coming too close. “Fuck, fuck- S-sorry it’s.. C-cramps.” Easing out a blow of air, Vivi eases herself onto her side.
Arthur looks from her to Mystery and then back. Then with quick steps he’s stepping into the bathroom. The faucet runs and squeaks as it's shut off, and he returns with a towel that must have been drying. It drips with cold water, and his hands were also wet with liquid covering her forehead with dampness before pressing the cold towel to her head. A sense of relief - a moment’s worth - has Vivi nestling into it.
Arthur hums worriedly, running a hand through his hair. “Okay, let me turn on these fans. Afterward I’m going to …” He glances out the window, “Mystery, can you watch over the room for a bit?”
“Of course. I’ll keep the door locked.”
“I’m going to run to the store and get some ice packs, and ice, and- uh… popsicles? And you- you know! Frozen foods…” He shakes his hand out wildly, and one could guess he was trying to short out all of his confusing thoughts. “Vivi, can you at least eat warm food?”
Vivi opens her mouth to respond, but nothing but pain comes out, and she cradles her stomach intensely. Mystery rises to his feet and nods.
“She will be able to eat warm food, but get a few cooler treats for her.
“Gotcha! Gotcha… uh.. Vivi?”
She cracks open an eye and glares at him.
“Yes?”
“Wa-want me to bring you some fudge pops…?”
“Whatever you think. Just- a- I don’t know!”
“Kay, kay! I’ll be back.”
Arthur makes quick work of turning the fans to their highest setting, locking the door, and vanishing into his van. A few more minutes and the sound of the engine vanishes down the road, leaving Mystery and Vivi to sit in silence.
Mystery glances over at her, “Clothes still bothering you?”
“Fuck you.” Vivi glares at him, if she wasn’t stuck in fetal position, she would smack her towel to his back, but she instead switches to a cooler untouched part to keep her head cool, “… and … yeah… think I can get away with wearing a shirt?
“That all depends on how you’re feeling.” Mystery advises unhelpfully, “It may be in your best interest to keep yourself covered so that way your body doesn’t interpret it as an invitation. However, it will be a lot on you if you don’t.”
Vivi’s quiet. Arthur did bring it up, but she just threatened him. He wants her to be safe, and she wants him to stand being near her… “think I should talk to Arthur about it more?
“It would be a good idea. To ensure that both of you are comfortable despite the circumstances.”
“Right… right…. you know what? I think I’m going to take a shower.” The towel smelled of soap and citrus, maybe there was some more still in the tub. Maybe she can...
Mystery interrupts the wave of heated images, much to her gratefulness and frustration. “Are you sure that’s a good idea?”
“Maybe! Maybe not.” with some new energy that she pulled from the depths of agony and horny Vivi pushes herself up, “But maybe taking a nice shower will help stabilize my temperature! It’ll be fine!” Her knees wobble the second she stands, and she resists the urge to curse them out for that betrayal. Vivi wipes some sweat off her face.
“Do you have any other clothes?
Vivi freezes. Oh no. Turning around, she scans the space and has the horrible realization that she only had her sweater and skirt]
“Shit, dammit. I didn’t grab my fucking bag last night, did I?”
“If I recall correctly you were more interested in sleeping”
“Shut up, Mystery.” God, she was two seconds from a melt down. Already she was feeling the need to stomp her feet and scream out from the everything picking at her. Finally she grips the doorknob and flings it open, “Scratch the door if he comes back before I’m out?”
Mystery nods and rests his head down, “Of course.”
The van pulls up, and Mystery perks up from his position at the end of the bed. Vivi also perks up from under the sheet, eyebrows twisting together as she pulls down her hiked up sweater and covers her stomach. Although the feverish burning under her breasts was miserable, it was the price to be paid for Arthur.
Speaking of which - there he was now. He just passes by the window with a lot in his arms. Mystery is up before she is, and he sheds his doggy form for a more human appearance. Although he looks more like a fox standing up on two legs. Vivi blinks in shock, but Mystery flicks his tail at her and makes use of his new fingers to unlock the door- even as a knock interrupted his concentration.
Mystery opens the door. “There you are.”
Arthur’s eyes widened above the load he was carrying, shivering at the wave of cold air. “What the fuck-”
“Shapeshifter, remember?” Mystery rolls his eyes, and leans forward to snatch the two hefty grocery bags as well as the enormous bag of ice from Arthurs grasp to take to the ‘kitchen’. It makes it easier for him to stumble in.
“I- I guess? I just didn’t expect you to look- well…”
“Like a chick?” Vivi offers, and Arthur laughs.
“Yeah! I- I don’t know, I was expecting a more-?” he hand waves, and the standing kitsune- looking very much like a woman - rolls his eyes again.
“I prefer this form rather than being a frail old man, excuse me.” And with that, Mystery bows forward and his bones shift back to the doggy form. He shoots a glare at both of them. “And don’t refer to me as a chicken.”
Vivi snickers, “would you prefer ‘hottie’, then? Because you were smokin’~” she and Arthur both crack on the last bit, with her busting out with laughter and Arthur biting his lip to stop himself from falling over.
With an awkward kick, Arthur’s closing the door. Then, he’s looking just as concerned as before as he brings the container- a cooler. “How’re you feeling, Vi?”
A pulse. God he’s attractive. “Never better, just cursed with the sevens suns worth of steam inside of me. Ya’ know, no biggie!”
He drops said cooler and looks up at her and then the thermostat. “Has the AC not kicked in yet?”
“No, it’s been running…” she grimaces, and tucks the sheet between her legs as she sits up. “Im sure you can tell.”
Arthur shakes his head, but rubs his fleshy arm’s goosebumps. “Y-yeah, it-it’s not too bad.”
“Yeah right. Go to the van and grab yourself a hoodie.”
Arthur sighs and nods, “Yeah, sure.”
“Oh-! And some of my shorts, please?” Another nod, and a thumbs up, and Vivi flashes a grateful grin before he vanishes behind the door. Then she grimaces, “fuck- I don’t think elastic will be easy on me..”
“Maybe he will grab you some of his shorts, so it’s looser,” Mystery offers.
“No way, not in a million years.” Although she would have liked it, “I doubt Arthur will fork over his stuff, especially since we’re…”
“Not romantic partners?”
“Right. I know technically we can share clothes, but I really doubt he’d be down for that.”
“Wouldn’t hurt to try.”
“Nah.”
Speak of the devil, Arthur raps on the door before peaking in. He’s got their bags in hand and he shuffles in and over to her. He looks considerably warmer in his gray hoodie. He must have left his vest in the van, because Vivi catches the smallest peak of the crook of Arthurs neck and she’s forcing her eyes away. Which, so happened to be on Arthurs arm coming close and god, how it folds as he moves and-
What.
Arthur plops her bag on the bed and zips it open. “I really wasn’t sure what would be best, so I hope it’s cool that I grabbed all of it.”
“Its not a problem,” Vivi pulls it close, riffling through the blue fabrics. She brushes her hand along the textures and squints to see what exactly was appropriate. … Speaking of which. Vivi tightens her lips and glances up at Arthur nervously. “Hey, I wanted to ask you something…”
Attentive, Arthur nods and plops on the bed, not breaking eye-contact, “s-sup?”
Vivi chokes on a giggle, “first of all- don’t gotta look at me like that!”
“Oh-” his cheeks warm, “shit, sorry. Didn’t think-” His hand lingers at his jaw like he was about to touch his neck, but he pauses as Vivi laughs, and he chuckles as well. “My bad,” he says warmly, “I just- I don't know.”
“Want to be a good caretaker?”
“Definitely! You know how I am, always gotta be cautious.”
Vivi lightly smacks his arm, “I know~”
Her hand lingers on his firm and sturdy arm, and slowly, their smiles drop as they realize it. Vivi snaps back her hand and busies herself with her clothes. “I-! Uh-! I wanted to ask… so, you had said that you would be okay with me being completely naked, tits out and all.”
Arthur swallows, his adam's apple bobbing. Jesus. “Y-yeah?”
“Weeell… I’m not really on board with that. Sorry”-
“It's fine!”
-”But, what's your opinion on shorts? Like-” Vivi fishes out a cloth pair, and then immediately regrets it. This was the pair that had her entire ass hanging out! “Okay, not these ones.” She pulls out a pair that's considerably more covering, and then a tank top to match…
Its see-through.
Vivi pulls out another, and then another, and a third- and all of them have the same problem.
“Okay, what the fuck?”
“Whats wrong?”
“All of these are super see through and I do not like that.” She mumbles, pulling out shirt after shirt and seeing all of them being slightly too see through for her taste.
“Ah.” Arthur snags his bag and opens it up, shoving his hand in and then pulling out a few of… his shirts. Vivi freezes as he lays it on her lap. “Will these work?”
She gawks at them for a second, before shoving her hand under the cotton fabric and holding it up to the light. Quietly, she nods, “Yeah, these would work great.”
“Well, you can have ‘em for now.” Arthur’s smiling, Vivi doesn’t even have to look up at him to tell. Her cheeks warm and a fresh set of tingles rush down her back. Why are you so nice, Arthur? This is unfair!
“Th-thanks, let me change then- hrk!” Vivi’s shoulders hike as a sudden pain coils and ripples through her lower half. Arthur jumps, eyebrows furrowing.
“You o-okay?”
“C-cramps..!” With the crack in her gut, a new wave of heat simmers under her skin. Starting at her head and making her woozy and trailing all the way down to her fingertips where her joints lock up and tremble. “G-gimme a sec- Gah!” It hits her in the thighs and legs, almost paralyzing, and Vivi curls up. The facade of control drops, and Arthur’s seen it. He’s standing up, pressing his hand to her shoulder and fuck there was so much sweat under her sweater. Its unbearable.
“H-hey, can you help me t-take these off…” Vivi gulps thickly, unable to open her eyes past a narrow squeeze. Arthurs eyebrows shot up, jaw stiffening, but he bobs his head.
Where’d her shame go? Isn’t this the last thing that should be happening…? Vivi didn’t care. Her numb fingers drag along the hem of her sweater, and she can hardly see the mix-matched ones.
"Alright, can you lift your arms?" Arthur asks, and Vivi sucks in a deep breath and raises the. They land on Arthurs shoulder, and if it was an issue, he doesn't make it clear. The thick material is slowly lifted, being hoisted up slowly and peeled off her skin, cold air hits the damp skin and Vivi trembles. "Duck your head, Vi, we're almost done with this." Arthur's voice was so unberably kind. It made her misery double. Him having to see her like this sucked, like a tiny voice was in the back of her head and pointing out where his hands were and what he was seeing. Vivi lowers her head. Her hair and worked against her sweater, but after a small amount of tugging, Arthur frees her and her arms slip from the sleeves easily.
... Leaving her in her bra... Vivi swallows thickly, expecting Arthurs eyes to be on her, but instead its replaced by a white shirt being held infront of her. It drapes over her easily, although it rubs akwardly against her slick body. It would work.
"There, sweater off." Arthur murmurs, and then the comfortable fabric of her shorts is dropped onto her knees. "Do you need help putting... these on?"
Her gaze drops to them, and she nods, the waves of startling agony beginning to pass. "Y..yeah. C-can you help me up? I'll change in the bathroom..."
Arthur isn't looking at her directly, but he nods. He holds out his arm and Vivi clings to it, and quickly- or as quickly as she could while hobbling- Arthur helps her into the bathroom with her fresh set of clothes.
Vivi wipes her body clean of sweat and changes. Her underwear and skirt lay discarded in the bathroom corner, and Vivi makes a mental note to go back and pick it up. Not now when he body felt so weak and tired that it was difficult even staying upright. Blinking hard, Vivi rubs her knuckles against her eyes in a vain attempt to wake herself up. It wasn't unusual for her to get this fatigued, even more so when she was sick or tired or in pain. Still, even having that knowledge sucked. Inahling sharply, Vivi wills up as much her energy as she could before rapping weakly on the bathroom door. She calls out a warning for the boys and opens up.
A blast of cold air hits her and Vivi slumps in relief. Arthur's on the bed, glancing over quickly before averting his eyes and standing up.
Vivi's stomach sours. "Hey, do you mind if I take a nap, boys?"
Arthur gives her a quick nod, jaw firm. Either from his teeth chattering or... Vivi didn't know, and she wasn't in the best place to ask him and be faced with.. something, especially not with this constant pain in her body. Nodding, she comes over to the bed and crawls on it. Not before shoving the blankets to the side.
"Here, incase you get cold."
A nod. Arthur isn't even facing her.
Vivi lays down, and falls asleep.
It isn’t long before Mystery plops on the futon and eyes down Arthur.
“Everything alright?”
Arthur leers at him warily, then back at Vivi and he’s leaning against a wall. “Yeah. It's… I’m fine.”