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Chapter Text

The Big City Convention Center was alive with guests, competitors, and cosplayers rushing to and from their desired panels and merchandise tables. Nicole Haught strolled down the long hallway leading to room C, where they were to be a guest panelist on this year's “Representation Matters” panel. Nicole thought the whole idea was gratuitous and unnecessary, seeing as they were one of only two guests on the panel. They could count off on both hands how many other queer gamers that could have also been asked to join them, but apparently the organizers didn’t care as much as they claimed they did.

It was all a marketing ploy and Nicole knew it. But…it paid well and they could use the extra money right now.

Nicole stopped at a table that was adorned with their own merchandise and spoke briefly with their PR manager and best friend, Rosita Bustillos. Their conversation was brief, Nicole delivering the same Pre-Panel Panic speech they gave at every convention. Rosita always found it endearing.

“You’re going to be fine, Nic. You always crush these panels.” She placed a hand on Nicole’s shoulder and gave it a squeeze.

“Don’t you think it’s a bit insulting? Calling me their ‘token lesbian’ and using my sexuality as a money grab?”

“In their defense, they probably also asked you to join because of your recent journey with gender identity.” Nicole rolled their eyes and lightly smacked Rosita’s arm, who only laughed in reply. “But really, Nicole, I see it more of a…positive step in the right direction. Normalizing these kinds of things more.”

“You always have to see things from a positive perspective, don’t you?”

“Someone has to, since you’re the angry leprechaun of the group.”

“Ay! Using my heritage against me when I’m already vulnerable?” Nicole playfully glared at Rosita, who could only offer a laugh in response again.

“I mean it though, you have nothing to worry about!” Rosita squeezed Nicole’s shoulder once more before dropping her hand. “ And Jeremy is going to be up there with you.”

“Yeah, because we’re the only two gay gamers in the region,” Nicole mumbled sarcastically.

The sound of boisterous laughter erupted from a small group standing by the conference room door, drawing Nicole’s attention. They slowly surveyed the group, spotting their friend almost instantly. Jeremy Chetri, Purgatory’s most well-known streamer, stood next to a man a few good inches taller than him – someone Nicole quickly recognized as Jeremy’s boyfriend, Robin – and a girl who Nicole couldn’t see the face of.

“Waverly Earp,” Rosita said from behind Nicole. “Chetri’s best friend and former social media manager, I believe.”

Nicole’s brow furrowed. “Why former social media manager?”

“What do I look like, a walking Wiki page? Go ask her yourself.” Rosita gently nudged Nicole in the group’s direction.

“Are you crazy? I don’t even know who that is!” Nicole tore their stare away from the group and looked at Rosita with wide eyes.

“But I’m sure she knows who you are.” Rosita smirked.

Nicole exhaled sharply through their nose and grabbed one of the hoodies off of the table. “I’ll send you the money for this,” they called over their shoulder.

“It’s your merch, you don’t have to pay!” Rosita called after Nicole as they walked toward the panel room doors.

Nicole slid the sweatshirt on to cover up their outfit that they were now extremely wary of. They had no idea why, after so many years, panels still gave them anxiety. But they would rather figure out how to cope than to actually fix the issue, and restoring any ounce of their self confidence was always key. Even if they had spent all morning carefully picking out their outfit so that this wouldn’t happen. 

Nicole smoothed their hands down their chest, making sure everything was in place, and started walking toward the conference room. They nodded to Jeremy as they passed him by and went straight for their seat at the table.

Nicole pulled out their phone and started scrolling through their Twitter feed, hoping to distract their mind until the panel started. There was nothing interesting happening online so they decided to look into what Rosita was saying about Waverly. Pulling up Google, Nicole typed in Waverly Earp Jeremy Chetri social media and her screen was instantly flooded with photos of and articles about the brunette.

Nicole tapped the first link that led them to Waverly’s Wikipedia page, and they scrolled down until they found the section about her career. Right at the top was listed ‘former bartender at Shorty’s bar’ and then ‘yoga instructor at the Big City spa.’ Nicole laughed quietly, finding it somehow fitting that this woman was both a bartender and a yoga instructor. She definitely gives off that kind of preppy vibe they thought.

Skimming through the long paragraphs outlining Waverly’s career, Nicole finally found what they were looking for. The website read: 

“Waverly is also the former social media manager for Purgatory’s famous Jeremy Chetri. Earp had to take a break due to personal reasons relating to…”

“ Her failed relationship with Chetri ?” Nicole finished aloud, dumbfounded. “That can’t be right. Jeremy’s–”

“Gay? Strictly interested in men? A raging homosexual? Yeah, those pages are never accurate. I believe that information is cited from a fan page.”

Nicole quickly locked their phone and looked up to see Jeremy standing next to their seat. With a red face and an embarrassed smile, Nicole cleared their throat and nodded stiffly.

“I was just…”

“Googling my best friend?” Jeremy laughed and sat down.

“I was only curious! Rosita mentioned she used to be your social media manager and I wanted to know why she isn’t any longer.”

“You could’ve just asked, you know. It’s not a touchy subject. For me, at least.”

“What do you mean?” Nicole raised an eyebrow.

“Ah,” Jeremy scratched the back of his head, “it’s not exactly my place to say. But it had to do with her family. You can try asking her, she doesn’t mind talking about it much anymore.”

“So what can you tell me?”

Jeremy shrugged and sat back in his chair. “It was a mutual decision. She spoke with me in private about the matter and suggested that Robin, my–”

“–Your boyfriend.” Nicole nodded and smiled.

Jeremy smiled in return. “She suggested he take over since we spend so much time together.”

“So, just to clarify, you and Waverly never dated?” Nicole joked and nudged their friend with their elbow.

“No.” Jeremy chuckled and rubbed his hands against his thighs. “We just spent a lot of time together in the public eye, I guess. Going out for lunch or coffee to discuss convention appearances or sponsors and whatnot. You know how the internet is.”

“Brutal.” Nicole nodded shortly, recalling the time when fans began speculating their relationship with Rosita and started attacking her online.

“Plus, she wanted to take some time to focus more on her own career. She’s not much of a gamer, you know, but she used to be really big on graphic design. That’s how we met, actually. She responded to a call I put out about needing someone to help with my merch and stream graphics.”

Nicole’s brows rose in surprise. “She does graphic design?” Their eyes drifted over to the open door, where Robin was still standing with Waverly.

“She stopped once she realized she was better with social media management.”

“What’s she doing now?” Nicole tried not to sound like a creep, but they were genuinely interested. And Waverly, they were quickly discovering, was very much their type.

“Well, her sister handles most bookings for public appearances and all of that fun PR stuff, and Waverly kind of floats around helping where she can, taking photos and helping Robin choose which ones to post. But her main focus lately has been graphic design again. You should check out her Instagram.”

Nicole took the small business card Jeremy passed over and looked down at the username. They stifled a laugh at the pun. “OceanWaves, I like it. I’ll be sure to check her out.”

Jeremy studied Nicole for a moment, eyes knowing and smirk evident. “So…will you be at the after party tonight?” He turned in his chair to face Nicole. “I hear there’s an open bar. And I’m sure Waverly’s going too.”

Nicole felt their cheeks grow warm but tried to ignore it. “You sure you want me there after what happened in California last year?”

Jeremy groaned and sat back in his chair, covering his face. “Please, don’t remind me.”

“You sang your little heart out to Tina Turner right in front of the Gaming Weekly journalist.” Nicole laughed and clamped a hand on Jeremy’s shoulder.

“And you recorded every second of it.”

“How could I not? I have to document these types of things for future blackmailing purposes.”

Jeremy shook his head and chuckled. “Well, this time there won’t be any karaoke. At least, I hope not. And besides, I think it’ll be fun. You deserve to let loose every now and then.”

Before Nicole could respond, Waverly came bounding up the side steps of the stage with a smile and two metal water bottles in her hands. Nicole straightened up in their seat and ran a quick hand through their hair.

“Hey, guys, just a quick heads up, you’ve got about five minutes before the panel starts. So if you need to go grab a coffee or something, now’s your chance.”

Nicole nodded, thinking coffee sounded amazing at the moment, but they didn’t move. Instead they stared at Waverly for several moments too long. They couldn’t be sure, but Nicole swore they saw Waverly’s cheeks turn the slightest shade of pink before she placed the water bottles on the table. She whispered something to Jeremy about how she’d be in the back taking photos and turned back to Nicole, flashing them a warm smile.

“Nicole, right?”

Nicole smiled and nodded. “Nice to meet you…Waverly?” They played it off as if they hadn’t been talking about her for the last ten minutes. Jeremy covered up his laugh with a cough, and Nicole kicked his leg under the table.

“The pleasure is mine.” Waverly smiled. “You’ll be at the party tonight, right?”

“I might be.” Nicole shrugged.

“Well, I hope you are. I hear it’s going to be really groovy.”

“I’ll…see what I can do.” Nicole smiled one last time before the panel moderator sat down next to Jeremy, between the two of them.

Waverly nodded, her eyes lingering on Nicole for a moment. She turned back to Jeremy. “Like I said, I’ll be in the back, watching the panel, but Robin should be moving around. So if you need anything, he’ll probably be able to help.”

“Thanks, Waves. I’ll see you both after.” Jeremy smiled.

~*~

“Nicole, what obstacles have you faced since coming out? I’ve been following you from the start and admire how strong you are!”

Nicole went stiff in their chair. Why was it that every question Jeremy got was about the games he played, or where he wanted to travel, but they always got asked about their sexuality?

“I’m…not sure that question is exactly in line with what we came here to discuss today.” Jeremy spoke up first, sensing Nicole’s unease. “I understand this panel has been about representation,” he glanced at the moderator, “but some of us have made it clear that we don’t exactly enjoy speaking openly about the pain we’ve endured because of who we are.”

“I’m sorry. It was just a simple question. I’m a big fan of both of you,” the fan replied, their voice lacking any real remorse.

“If you were a fan of mine, then you’d know how I don’t fancy talking about my past much,” Nicole spoke calmly into their mic, their accent thickening as it usually did when they were frustrated. “But if you must know, it’s been hard. People are constantly speculating about my relationships and every aspect of my life is placed beneath a giant magnifying glass. I can’t do shit without being questioned.”

Jeremy took a sip of his water and cleared his throat. “Nicole is right. We are the same as you. We’re just normal people. Nothing about our self identities should make us any more or less prone to dissection in the public eye.”

“We play video games for a living,” Nicole continued, voice calm. “We work hard to give all of you entertaining content, and to be openly who we are in hopes of helping each of you on your own journeys. This convention is to celebrate our victories, not speak so much on the negativity.”

“Boo! We don’t care! We just want to see Haught Pants kiss pretty girls and scream about it on social media!” someone in the audience shouted. Nicole’s eyes narrowed and they gripped the edge of their seat tightly.

“My platform is dedicated to inclusivity, but the reason I rarely share my personal life online anymore is because of people like you.” Nicole leaned forward against the table. “I don’t suppose any of you have questions like that for, Jeremy?” They scanned the crowd and hummed softly. Quietly, they gathered their things and stood up, turning toward the moderator.

“Thank you for another amazing panel, Chrissy, but I don’t think I can take part in this any longer.” They turned to the sea of people before them.

Jeremy covered his mic and begged quietly, “Nicole, please don’t leave.”

“I apologize to everyone actually here to ask meaningful questions, but I’ve made it clear in the past that if I was continuously made to feel uncomfortable, I would be done. I hope you enjoy the rest of the convention.”

Nicole quickly descended the stairs on the side of the small platform, squeezing Jeremy’s shoulder as they passed him. The room was silent as they pushed through the doors, hundreds of eyes watching them.

They passed by Waverly in their haste and a wave of shame washed over them. She had just witnessed Nicole throw a fit in front of their friends and fans, and now every chance they had at getting to know Waverly had gone out the window. But that thought was soon pushed to the back of Nicole’s mind. They were too focused on getting out of the public area and headed straight for the elevators, frantically shoving their hands in their pockets to find their keycard. They passed by Rosita and another woman on their way, but didn’t stop to address her.

Rosita called out to them, but Nicole kept walking. They pressed the up button and slid into the elevator before the doors were open all the way. As the doors closed, Nicole leaned back against the metal wall and closed their eyes. What the fuck was that?

“Who the fuck…” Nicole groaned and sighed. “Pathetic.”

They were too distracted to notice the other person who had gotten onto the elevator with them. When they opened their eyes, Waverly was staring with concern.

~*~

Waverly stood frozen at the back of the room when she heard the question that sent Nicole over the edge. The audience erupted into whispered discussion as the redhead exited the room, their eyes following Nicole out the doors. They walked right past her, their eyes meeting for just a brief moment. Jeremy’s voice came over the speakers trying to quiet everyone down, but Waverly didn’t hear what he said before the adrenaline in her body caused her to leave the room and follow Nicole.

They were walking with their head low and arms wrapped tightly around their torso. They stuck closely to the wall and ignored anyone trying to start a conversation with them. Waverly glared at the people giving Nicole attitude and tightened her grip on the strap of her camera bag. She heard Wynonna calling after her but she couldn’t bring herself to care or stop, so she pushed on and rounded the corner.

Nicole stopped at the elevators and smashed the button repeatedly until the doors dinged open. Waverly bit her lip and, against her better judgment, followed them onto the elevator.

“Waves!” Wynonna shouted again. She sighed when Waverly disappeared from her view. “Seriously, baby girl?”

“Nicole! Please come back, we’ll figure this out!” a voice called after Nicole.

Wynonna turned to find Rosita standing behind her, arms crossed. She was looking in the direction of the elevators, her expression concerned.

Wynonna eyed her suspiciously. “You work with the redhead, right?”

“Their name is Nicole, and yes, I do.” Rosita hesitated, finally tearing her eyes away from the hallway to look at Wynonna.

“I’d ask if everything is okay, but judging from the way they booked it to the elevator, I’m guessing not?”

“I’m more concerned with that fangirl who followed them into the elevator.” Rosita sighed and looked back to the elevators. “Nicole has a knack for attracting crazed fans.”

“Well that ‘crazed fan’ is my sister, so.” Wynonna folded her arms and leaned her shoulder against the column behind her.

Rosita bit her lip and cursed under her breath. “You must be Wynonna Earp.”

“So you’ve heard of me.” Wynonna hummed. “Glad to see I’ve gotten some clout from my baby sister.”

“Look, Miss Earp—”

“Wynonna is fine.” Wynonna waved her off and laughed. “This girl doesn’t do formalities.”

“ Wynonna , none of this is personal. I’m just under a lot of stress right now. Juggling Nicole’s social media, merchandise, and appearances isn’t as sunshine and rainbows as it used to be now that they’ve grown so popular.”

“It doesn’t seem like they enjoy the fame much,” Wynonna observed.

Rosita shrugged and pulled out her phone to send a quick string of texts to Nicole.

      Rosita: Are you okay?

      Rosita: Where did you go?

      Rosita: Call me.

She shoved her phone back into her pocket and looked at Wynonna. “Nicole has...been through a lot. Both with their career, and their personal life.”

“What, like anxiety?” Wynonna asked with a knowing look. “Stage fright?”

“Anxiety, depression, public opinion.” Rosita sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose. “Home life was a bit rough, so they moved to Purgatory, but recently had to go back to Ireland to look after their mom. It’s all really taken a toll on Nicole. And conventions...gods, these stupid conventions.” She sat back down in her chair.

Wynonna nodded slowly, unsure of what to say. She didn’t know if she should say anything.

“I’m sorry for being so weird and unloading all of this.” Rosita sighed again and covered her face. “It’s just that Nicole really loves interacting with their fans, but a lot of these conventions only ask them to be a guest just to prove they’re actually as inclusive as they say they are.”

“Nicole is a lesbian, too, right?” Wynonna asked suddenly.

Rosita narrowed her eyes. “Yes, but I don’t see how that could possibly matter right now.”

“Don’t get the wrong idea.” Wynonna held her hands up in surrender. “I’m…me and Waverly are…you know.” She gestured vaguely around them before letting her hand flop limply over her wrist in a gesture that screamed gay . “I’m just trying to get a feel for Haught. I’ve heard Waves mention the name before, but the things I’ve read have given me some conflicting information.”

She would never admit it, especially not to one of Nicole’s partners, but Wynonna had been sleuthing in Nicole’s streams for a while now. Ever since they teamed up with Jeremy for a collaboration playing It Takes Two to raise money for a local charity, Wynonna found herself greatly intrigued by the redhead.

Rosita shook in silent laughter. “Word to the wise, anything you read about Nicole on the internet is most likely not true.”

“Feel free to punch me for asking a question I may not be entitled to know the answer to, but why? Their career literally revolves around the internet. How could people get the wrong idea?”

“I have no idea where to even begin.” Rosita laughed dryly. “And I’m far too sober to get into it.”

“Want to talk about it over a drink?” Wynonna checked the time. The sun would be setting soon, which meant it was long past due for some whiskey. “Or we could talk about something else, if it’ll help.”

Rosita bit her lip, considering the offer. “I should really go check on Nicole.”

“They’re fine with Waverly, I promise.” Wynonna held her hand out for Rosita to take. “Waverly is going to the party tonight and I know for a fact she’ll drag Red Riding Hood there with her.”

Checking her phone and sighing when there were no replies from Nicole, Rosita conceded and took Wynonna’s hand. “I suppose one drink wouldn’t hurt.”

“Great!” Wynonna clapped her hands together and pushed Rosita toward the hotel bar. “We can discuss another potential collaboration with Jeremy if it’ll make you feel better.”

~*~

Nicole breathed deeply through their nose and hastily pulled the black sweatshirt bearing their own logo up and over their head, the elevator feeling more like a metal hot box than an efficient form of transportation. They clutched the sweatshirt to their chest and tried some of the tips Rosita had provided for how to deal with panic attacks.

Ten things I can see from here, they thought, then sighed. Metal, metal, and — oh look! —more metal.

“Which floor?” Waverly asked after clearing her throat to alert Nicole of her company.

The redhead jumped and gripped the metal railing behind them until their knuckles went white. They stared at Waverly with wide eyes, trying to formulate at least one coherent thought. Waverly waited patiently, watching with worried eyes, her finger hovering over the elevator’s buttons.

“Which floor are you on?” Waverly asked again, this time softer.

Nicole swallowed hard and closed their eyes. “Nine.”

Waverly smiled brightly and turned toward the buttons, stabbing the nine with her index finger. The elevator lurched upward and Nicole opened one eye to look at Waverly, who still had her back to them.

“Are you also on the ninth floor?”

Waverly bit her lip and slowly turned to face Nicole. “I’m on the second.”

Nicole’s eyebrow slowly rose. “So why didn’t you press that button?”

“I wanted to make sure you got to your room safely.” Waverly’s cheeks flushed.

Nicole’s expression remained neutral for a beat longer than what was natural, and Waverly was afraid she had greatly miscalculated. She barely even knew Nicole, and Nicole knew even less about her. Cheeks burning with embarrassment, Waverly moved to turn away, but Nicole’s hand gently grabbed her wrist. Waverly looked down at the pale hand at the base of her arm and sucked in a quiet breath when her eyes landed on the tattoos that swirled around Nicole’s wrist. Slowly, Waverly lifted her gaze, trailing her eyes over the various tattoos that were now exposed on Nicole’s arms, until she met their eyes.

“Thank you,” Nicole said, voice barely above a whisper.

Waverly shook her head and smiled. “You have nothing to thank me for.”

“I’m just not really used to people being genuine with me. Usually, I get the same half-arsed lie about wanting advice about coming out and then they end it with a plea for an autograph or a selfie.”

“Well, that’s ridiculous.” Waverly’s brow furrowed, just for a second, a flash of confusion passing behind her eyes. “They should at least ask for something people would actually pay good money for.”

Nicole’s eyes widened, their lips just barely parting in shock, and Waverly winced. Her tendency to crack jokes to ease tension was something she had picked up from Wynonna, and definitely something the two of them were going to have a talk about later. Waverly opened her mouth to apologize, but before she could get anything out, Nicole started…laughing?

And not just some small chuckle, either.

They threw their head back and cackled, their entire body shaking. The knot in Waverly’s stomach dissipated when Nicole clutched their stomach and wiped the tears that had streamed down their cheeks.

“I have to admit, that was a good one,” Nicole said after composing themself.

“I’m…really glad you picked up on the joke there,” Waverly admitted with a flush of her cheeks. “It’s a bad habit I picked up from my sister. I really need to speak with Wynonna about that.”

“Wynonna…Earp?” Nicole raised an eyebrow. “Wynonna Earp is your sister?”

Waverly nodded slowly, ignoring the elevator dinging and opening its doors on Nicole’s floor. “The name Earp isn’t really a common one.”

“No, I- I know…but she-” Nicole sputtered and closed their eyes for a brief moment. “She’s been in my streams consistently ever since I went live with Jeremy for the first time a few months ago.”

“That’s what she does.” Waverly bit her lip. “She’s a scout, basically. Feels out the popular gamers and tries to set them up with our people. Our ‘people’ being…only Jeremy.”

Nicole stared at Waverly in silent contemplation before stepping forward into her space. Waverly backed up a few steps until her back hit the closed elevator doors. Nicole looked at her for a moment longer than was necessary, something unreadable flashing in her eyes, and Waverly forgot how to breathe.

“Well,” Nicole replied, their voice low and close to Waverly’s ear, “your sister happens to be one of my largest contributors.” They pushed the button on the panel next to Waverly and the doors slowly slid open, causing her to stumble back.

“Shit-!” Nicole caught Waverly by her waist before she could fall and stepped out of the elevator.

“I’ve got you, a ghrá .” Nicole chuckled and patted Waverly’s waist once before stepping back.

Waverly pressed her hands against Nicole’s chest to steady herself in the brief moment Nicole’s hands were on her waist. Her cheeks burned something fierce at the firm squeeze of Nicole’s hands and immediately missed the feel of their hands when they pulled away.

What are you doing? Stop that. Waverly mentally slapped herself.

“Well, I should probably get going.” Waverly slowly stepped back toward the elevator, holding her hand out to stop the doors from closing. “Get out of your hair and all.”

“Or…” Nicole dragged the word out slowly.

“Or?” Waverly let her hand fall back to her side, allowing the doors to close again.

“You could stay for a little longer?” Nicole clutched the sweatshirt in their hands tighter. “I don’t exactly…like to be alone when I’ve had days like today.”

Waverly fought the smile creeping its way across her face. “Nicole.”

“But only if you want to, of course,” Nicole rushed out. “I-I’m sure you’re busy since you have a lot of pictures to go through for Jeremy’s socials and-”

“Nicole,” Waverly repeated and placed a hand on their arm. “I would love to stay and chat for a bit. Like I said, I wanted to make sure you were okay.” Nicole visibly relaxed and Waverly wanted to wrap them up in a warm blanket, shielding them from the horrible stress that conventions often brought forth.

“Right this way, then, m’lady,” Nicole tried their best for a British accent, but it came out as some sort of strangled amalgamation of British and Irish. 

Waverly stifled a laugh and lightly bumped Nicole’s shoulder. “I guess it’s a good thing you’re not an actor.”

“Ay, that dream was crushed when I was young.” Nicole waved a dismissive hand. “Plus, gaming is more rewarding, if you ask me.”

“How so?” Waverly leaned against the wall next to Nicole’s door as they dug in their pocket for their keycard.

“Well, for one– aha!” Nicole hummed victoriously when they found the key. “You get to meet some pretty cool people.” They looked at Waverly for a brief moment before turning toward the door. Waverly bit her lip and turned away to hide her blush.

Nicole pushed the door open and stepped inside, holding it open for Waverly to pass through. Waverly gripped the strap of her camera bag tightly and stepped into the room. She did a quick scan of the space, noting the organized chaos Nicole had been living in for the past few days. Shirts and pants were thrown haphazardly onto the bed, like they had been in a rush digging through their bag, and at least three different pairs of Vans were piled near a small desk in the corner. For some reason, Waverly found herself a bit curious. She had pinned Nicole as the organized, neat freak type like herself. Seeing the mess was oddly comforting, knowing that someone like Nicole wasn’t as put together as they appeared to be.

It made her feel better about her own life.

“I’m sorry about the mess.” Nicole rubbed the back of their neck. “I was having a bit of a fashion crisis this morning.”

They were wearing black skinny jeans and a white Thrasher t-shirt with the sleeves rolled up a couple of times. It was a simple outfit, even with the checkered slip on Vans, but Waverly thought Nicole looked…nice.

And by nice she meant very hot , but she refused to admit that even to herself.

“I think you look fantastic,” she said, instead. “It really fits the sense of style I thought you had.”

Nicole grinned and dropped down onto the bed, bouncing on their back. “You’ve thought about what my style was?” Their voice was light, teasing. Waverly fought back a groan and covered it up with a cough, setting her camera bag down on the desk.

“It’s hard not to when you stream so often,” Waverly defended, sitting on the edge of the bed next to Nicole’s left leg. “One can only imagine what the lower half of your body looks like, especially considering you’re always wearing hoodies.”

“Do you think about the lower half of my body often?” Nicole propped themself up on an elbow and stared down the bed at Waverly, smirking at her when she turned to look back.

“What? No! ” Waverly’s eyes went wide and she shook her head vigorously. “I-I just meant-...I didn’t know if you were a jeans and sweatpants kind of person or like…skirts or…something else…” her voice trailed off, embarrassment seizing her lungs.

Nicole chuckled and placed a hand on Waverly’s thigh. “Waves, relax. I was joking.”

Waverly stared down at their hand, acutely aware of how warm it felt against the bare skin of her thigh. They moved to sit up and flexed their hand for a brief moment, causing Waverly to jump slightly. She bit her lip and, in some attempt to distract herself, hesitantly reached out to run her finger across the bracelet around Nicole’s wrist.

“What’s this?”

“Ah, it’s nothing.” Nicole rubbed the back of their neck with their other hand. “My brother gave it to me after I came out.” They turned their hand over to reveal the yellow, white, purple, and black beads of the bracelet.

“That’s so cute.” Waverly gently closed her fingers around Nicole’s wrist for a brief moment. “Your family is all supportive?”

“He is, but the rest is…” Nicole started to nod but stopped abruptly and shrugged. “It’s…complicated.”

Waverly bit her lip and looked up at them. “What do you mean?”

“I don’t really want to talk about it, if that’s okay.” Nicole offered Waverly a weak smile.

“Of course.” Waverly squeezed Nicole’s wrist gently and let it go. Nicole took that as their cue to remove their hand from Waverly’s leg, and Waverly instantly missed the warmth there.

“I don’t really like talking about these things. It can be hard sometimes, you know?”

“I do.” Waverly nodded and looked around the room. She stood up quickly and turned to face Nicole. “Hey, are you feeling up to hit that lounge party they’re having tonight?”

Nicole leaned back on their hands and looked up at Waverly. They chewed the inside of their cheek, contemplating if they would be miserable or not if they went. Then they remembered Jeremy’s words from that morning: It’ll be fun. You deserve to let loose.

“You don’t have to stay long. We can go together, and if you want to leave I’ll come walk you back to your room. We can have a couple drinks…talk about whatever game you’re currently playing.” Waverly clasped her hands behind her back, hoping her desperation wasn’t too obvious. “Please?”

And it was that one word, that innocent and pleading look on Waverly’s face, that caused what little resolve Nicole had left to crumble completely.

“Alright.” They nodded and stood up. “A few drinks couldn’t hurt. What’s the worst that could happen?”

Chapter Text

Wynonna. Wynonna was the worst that could happen. 

She spotted them immediately when they walked into the room. Nicole was whispering something to Waverly who was giggling uncontrollably at their side. Waverly’s arm was wrapped around Nicole’s waist, her hand curled into their side, and every siren in Wynonna’s head started going off simultaneously. When Nicole finally tore their eyes away from the woman beside them, reality started to set in and Wynonna saw the shift in their body language instantly.

Word had spread quickly about Nicole’s outburst and, while most people seemed to be understanding, there was a vocal minority who seemed to have it out for them. Thankfully, this mixer was for convention guests only so the chances of someone saying something stupid to them were low seeing as most attendees were other gamers and their people.

Wynonna sat her empty glass down on the table in front of her and stood up. Rosita looked up and grabbed her hand.

“Where are you going?”

“Waves is here.” Wynonna tipped her chin toward the door. “And she brought Haught with her.”

Rosita’s eyes drifted over to the pair and raised her eyebrows. “Wow. I really didn’t think they’d come.”

“You underestimate the powers of Waverly Earp.” Wynonna gently pulled on Rosita’s hand until she was standing. “Come on. Let’s go talk to them.”

Rosita nodded and dropped her hands to her sides. “I really hope Nicole is okay.”

“Well, they’re about two seconds away from getting handsy with my sister, so I’d say things could be worse.”

“You’re so dramatic.” Rosita rolled her eyes and walked over to Nicole and Waverly.

“Rosie, hey.” Nicole smiled sheepishly and rubbed the back of their neck.

“Hey yourself, Red.” Rosita placed her hands on her hips. “Everything alright over here?”

“Everything’s…” Nicole‘s eyes drifted over Rosita’s shoulder and spotted Wynonna barreling their way. They took a step away from Waverly and nodded. “Everything’s good. Cool.”

“Waves! There you are. I’ve been looking for you all afternoon.” Wynonna slung her arm across Waverly’s shoulders and shoved a drink in her hand.

“You knew where I was. I texted you.” Waverly shoved the drink back into Wynonna’s hand.

“No, I don’t think you did. Where’ve you been, baby girl?”

“Earp…” Rosita muttered.

“I was with–”

“She was with me,” Nicole interjected. “She kindly escorted me back to my room and stayed until I had calmed myself.”

Wynonna’s grip tightened around Waverly’s shoulders as she chugged half of the drink in one sip. “And what exactly were the two of you doing up there?”

“Earp,” Rosita repeated, louder this time. “Knock it off.”

Nicole raised a hand and shook their head at their friend. “It’s alright, Rosie. I’m going to find myself a drink.”

Waverly opened her mouth to say something, but Nicole was walking away before she could. Wynonna snorted a laugh into her cup and Waverly shoved her sister’s arm from her shoulders.

“What the hell was that?” She turned abruptly toward Wynonna.

“Why were they holding your hand?” Wynonna questioned.

“Because they were nervous!” Waverly threw her hands up. “I tried giving them a pep talk, but nothing seemed to help.”

“Nicole is a…very anxious person.” Rosita’s expression softened at Waverly’s words. “And physical touch is a huge thing for them. So thank you for taking the time to consider how they were actually feeling.”

Waverly smiled and nodded, her eyes searching around the room for Nicole. She saw Jeremy standing near a group of journalists from a local newspaper and her heart sank. Nicole was over at the bar with their back turned to the group, and Waverly had a sneaking suspicion it was because of those reporters. Wynonna gently hip checked Waverly and gave her a concerned look.

“You look like you’re one drink away from hurling and you’re stone cold sober.” Wynonna looked around the room, following Waverly’s gaze. “Where’d Haught get off to?”

“Oh, so now you care about them?” Waverly rolled her eyes. “Jesus, Wyn, they only left because you kept grilling us about this afternoon. Can’t you at least pretend like you don’t hate them? You know, since you constantly stalk their streams.”

Rosita’s mouth fell open. “Hold on. What ?”

“Waverly, I swear to Aphrodite–”

“Yes, Wynonna is WhiskeyGoddess69 , and frequently donates to Nicole on Twitch.”

“Holy shit, dude! You’re Nic’s number one fan?” Rosita laughed and clapped a hand on Wynonna’s shoulder. “We thought you were some kind of bot or something for the longest time.”

“Not a bot,” Wynonna grumbled and crossed her arms, shrugging Rosita’s hand off. “Just an overprotective sister.”

“An overprotective sister, sure.” Rosita nodded and bit back a smile. “That’s why you watched them play The Last of Us for three hours and had sent nearly $250 by the time the stream ended.”

Waverly’s eyes went wide. “When Nicole said you were their biggest contributor I didn’t think they actually meant it.”

“I got caught up in the game and thought they deserved to be paid for how many clickers they stealth killed,” Wynonna defended herself. Rosita and Waverly stared at her with a knowing look. “Okay, fine, I really like their accent! Sue me.” She threw her hands up.

“So you do like them.” Rosita grinned.

“I am fully capable of enjoying someone’s content and still being suspicious of them.” Wynonna rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

Rosita and Wynonna continued to go back and forth, arguing about Nicole, but Waverly tuned them out. She searched around the room for Nicole, no longer seeing them by the bar. Panic shot through her body when she couldn’t see Nicole anywhere, not even in the areas of the room that were less crowded. Unable to stop herself, Waverly pushed past Rosita and headed for the small bar across the room.

She walked up to it and flagged down one of the bartenders, a guy not much older than her whose name tag read Perry . He smiled at Waverly and leaned forward so he didn’t have to shout so loud over the music.

“What can I get for you?” Perry asked.

Waverly shook her head and took one more anxious look around. “Have you seen a tall redhead wearing a white t-shirt and red flannel? I think they came over here not too long ago, but I didn’t see where they went after.”

“Oh, you mean Nicole Haught?” Waverly nodded, her eyes widening in alarm. “Yeah, they were here a few minutes ago. Last I saw a few journalists for the Purgatory Times were asking them some questions.” Waverly’s blood froze, her heart skipping several beats.

Seriously?

“But it didn’t last very long.” Perry shook his head. “I think they took off toward the balcony over there.” He motioned to the tall glass doors located near the DJ, a balcony just outside illuminated with colorful LED lights.

“Thank you so much.” Waverly dug some cash out of her pocket and placed it in the tip jar.

“Hey,” Perry reached out and stopped Waverly before she turned away, “I think they might have also been having a panic attack. So be mindful of that, yeah?”

Waverly bit her lip and nodded. “Thank you.”

Waverly began pushing her way through the throng of people drunkenly dancing and trying not to spill their drinks. The music grew louder the closer she got to the balcony doors, the pumping bassline rattling her chest and making it impossibly hard to think properly. When she got close enough, Waverly realized the balcony was blocked by the DJ table, almost as if it were off limits or had some kind of restricted access. She tried to step around the setup, but an arm came down and stopped her before she could reach the doors.

“Can’t go out there, sorry.”

“I really need to.” Waverly looked out the window and saw Nicole leaning against the railing, their head down. “My friend is out there.”

The DJ nodded slowly and crossed her arms. “Right, everyone is suddenly Nicole Haught’s best friend when they want something.”

Waverly’s eyes widened and she shook her head quickly. “No, it’s not like that. W-we came here together. Something happened and I need to make sure they’re okay. Please.” She looked down at the sign resting on the table that had various social media handles printed just below the words DJ SmallFry .

“Look, lady, I’m not security, I’m barely tall enough to stop you if I really needed to, but how am I supposed to know you aren’t just fucking with me?”

“Look…” Waverly trailed off, searching for any indication of this girl’s actual name.

“Rachel,” the girl supplied.

“Rachel, I work with Jeremy Chetri as part of his PR team. He and Nicole are very close. We met through him. I really need to go check on Nicole. It’s urgent.”

Rachel eyed Waverly suspiciously, looking her up and down, before letting her resolve take over. She nodded once and sidestepped so Waverly could reach the door.

“I’m trusting you more than I probably should, so don’t make me regret it or else I’ll…”

“Hunt me down?”

“I was going to say sneak into your hotel room and move everything three inches to left just to fuck with your flow, but yeah. Manhunt works too.”

Waverly nodded slowly. “Noted. If you really want, feel free to find Jeremy and ask him about me. My name is Waverly.”

Waverly patted Rachel’s shoulder and pushed the door open, stepping outside into the cool night air, before she could be stopped again. The music became muffled when the door clicked shut, like Waverly was stepping into Nicole’s personal bubble of space. They looked lost, staring down at the quiet street, fingers curled around the railing so tight their knuckles were white.

“I would like to be alone, Rosie,” Nicole said, just barely loud enough for Waverly to hear.

“It’s not Rosita.” Waverly shoved her hands into her pockets and took a steadying breath.

Nicole closed their eyes tightly, thinking Waverly being there, seeing them overreacting…again,  was almost worse than being hounded by journalists. The girl they wanted to impress, and their only interactions so far have been Waverly calming them down.

Fucking fantastic.

“Are you okay?” Waverly’s voice startled them, being closer now than it was just a moment ago.

“You don’t have to keep doing this, you know.” Nicole clenched their jaw when Waverly rested a hand on their shoulder. “You don’t ‘ave to keep chasing after me when I turn into a diva.”

Waverly squeezed Nicole’s shoulder. “You’re not a diva, Nic. You’re just tired.”

“You wouldn't know how I feel.” Nicole shrugged Waverly’s hand off and stood up straight. “My life is fucked because of my career.” Finally, they turned to face Waverly. “I can’t even breathe without some Tumblr post or Twitter thread going viral about how I must be in love, because my shoulders rose a little higher than they normally do when I took a breath, or that every person I spend any time with has to be my current partner. You don’t know what it’s like to have every aspect of your personal life speculated like that.”

A flash of hurt passed behind Waverly’s eyes, fleeing just as quickly as it came, but Nicole caught it. They winced at the harshness of their words, but knew they needed to be said. Waverly didn’t live her life in the spotlight like they did, a life Nicole couldn’t escape now even if they tried. Waverly’s features slowly shifted into something soft and understanding. Whatever pain Nicole’s harsh words inflicted upon her quickly rolled off her back as she cleared her throat and leveled Nicole with a look.

“I may not know exactly what it’s like, in the ways you experience it, but I’m more familiar with the feeling than you may think.”

Nicole opened their mouth to respond but snapped it shut when they remembered what Jeremy had said earlier that day.

“I’m not a gamer by any means, but I’m still involved with them,” Waverly continued. “I abandoned what I loved to do because I couldn’t hang out with my best friend without Instagram blowing up about us being a thing.”

“You’re right. That…that was stupid of me to say.” Nicole rubbed the back of their neck.

Waverly shook her head. “No, it’s fine. How were you supposed to know?” She offered a small smile in hopes of easing some of the tension. “My point is that it’s okay to freak out when people disrespect your personal space.”

Nicole shoved their hands into their pockets. “It’s just…I would like to talk about it all, but it’s…”

“Complicated and always brings some unwelcome feelings forward?”

“It’s like…okay, this is going to sound so corny.” Nicole plopped down onto one of the chairs behind them.

Waverly sat down in the chair across from them and gave a challenging smile. “Try me.”

Nicole bit their lip and watched Waverly’s eyes linger on their mouth for a moment longer. Nicole tore their eyes away and quickly shed their flannel. They felt Waverly’s eyes following their movements and Nicole quickly became aware of how hot their face felt.

“Pain is a bitch, but only when you can’t control it.” Waverly watched with a curious gaze as Nicole ran a finger down one of their arms, trailing the ink etched into their skin. “So I took control.”

“They’re beautiful,” Waverly breathed out. “Do they all have a meaning?”

Nicole shrugged but nodded. “Some do.” They swiped their thumb over the inside of their left wrist where a geometric shape was inked; two lines crossing in the middle, a third, curved one striking through the center.

“I got this one when I realized I was a lesbian.” They turned their arm to reveal the tattoo to Waverly. “It’s supposed to represent a journey.”

“It suits you. Small and simple, but carries a meaning of something far greater.” Waverly reached out and wrapped her fingers around Nicole’s arm, rotating it all the way so their palm was facing up. A series of slightly larger symbols trailing up the inside of their forearm, intricately woven between what seemed to be leaves and vines, caught her attention. She recognized them, but she couldn’t pinpoint where they were from. “What about these?”

“Ah,” Nicole chuckled quietly, abashedly. “The first game I ever played live was Horizon . So I went to the shoppe and got a few symbols from the game to commemorate the start of my new journey .”

Waverly laughed at Nicole’s joke and tightened her grip on their arm. She ran her fingers up Nicole’s arm, outlining the various triangular shapes and, what appeared to be, machine parts. Waverly was familiar with the game, she’d seen Jeremy play it before, but even though the meaning of the shapes was lost on her, she still understood their context.

“Not everyone likes tattoos, but I think they’re pretty badass.” Nicole swallowed hard when Waverly’s fingers brushed the cuffed sleeve of their shirt where the bottom half of a power circuit peeked out from underneath.

“I’ve always liked tattoos,” Waverly replied softly, almost in a whisper. “They’re the windows to the soul. You can tell a lot about a person from their tattoos.”

“What…” Nicole closed their eyes and breathed harshly out of their nose. They opened their eyes and looked at Waverly. “What do you see in mine?”

“I see…” Waverly ran her hand back down Nicole’s arm, skimming her fingers across their palm. “Someone who is very passionate about what they do. Who cares deeply about the people closest to them. Who…” She looked up and took a shaky breath, curling her fingers into Nicole’s. “Someone who has been hurt and deserves so much better.”

Waverly’s eyes flickered down to Nicole’s lips and back to their eyes so quickly Nicole thought they imagined it. They spread their fingers, allowing Waverly to slot her fingers between them. Everything around them faded into nothing; the music stopped and the air went still. Waverly couldn’t tell if the hammering in her chest was from the music or her heart beating wildly, but she didn’t dare try to think about it, to burst their small bubble.

Nicole flexed their fingers, gently squeezing Waverly’s hand.

Waverly scooted to the edge of her seat, causing their knees to press together.

Nicole’s mind went blank.

“Waverly–”

“There you guys are!” Jeremy’s voice tore through the silence and shattered the moment. Nicole jumped back and quickly stood up.

“Here we are,” Nicole forced out an awkward chuckle.

“Wynonna sent me to come find Waverly. There’s been a problem.”

“A problem? What kind of problem?” Waverly stood up so fast she almost fell over. Nicole reached out to steady her.

“Apparently someone left the water running in the bathroom this morning and your room took some major water damage.”

Waverly’s mouth fell open. “What…that…we left the room at, like, nine this morning! You’re telling me Wynonna left the sink on for fifteen hours ?!”

“Is everyone alright? How did you find out this happened?” Nicole asked.

“Housekeeping discovered it earlier in the day and Wynonna got an email from the hotel, but only just now read it.”

“Where is she?” Waverly demanded. She was frustrated because, yes, her older sister should know not to leave the sink on, but also because of course Wynonna would find a way to disrupt every moment alone she got with Nicole.

Jeremy held his hands up. “In the lobby talking to the front desk! She and Rosita are trying to find an open room for the two of you.”

“Waves…” Nicole murmured and placed a hand on Waverly’s shoulder.

“I just…how could she let this happen?” Waverly threw her hands up.

Nicole gently squeezed Waverly’s shoulder. “Waverly.” 

“How did she not think to turn the fucking sink off ?!”

“Waverly! Look at me.” Nicole waited until the other woman turned to face them. “I need you to calm down, okay?”

“I can’t calm down when our room is flooded.” Waverly snapped, but Nicole could see the fight draining from her.

“I know it’s shite and you’re freakin’ out, but you’ve got to calm down.” Hesitating, Nicole reached out and placed a hand on the side of Waverly’s face. “Breathe with me.”

Jeremy watched the two from the balcony door. Waverly’s response to Nicole’s touch was softer than it had been with anyone he had seen her with before, a gesture far too intimate for strangers. Perhaps they had gotten to know each other better than he thought after the day’s earlier events. Nicole continued to walk Waverly through their breathing exercise and Jeremy could see the tension leave Waverly’s shoulders. His phone chimed in his pocket with a text from Wynonna.

Earp: bad news. hotel is book solid so nowhere for me n waves 2 stay

Jeremy barely had time to read the first message before another one came through:

Earp: rosita just said i can crash in her room. think you hve space for waverly in yours?

Nicole’s laughter flitted into Jeremy’s ears and he looked over in their direction. Waverly had moved her hands up to their shoulders and was whispering something in their ear. Nicole caught Jeremy’s eye over Waverly’s shoulder, and he quirked a brow at them. Nicole only shook their head and fought off a grin.

“Uh, guys? I’ve got an update from Wynonna.”

“I only want to hear it if it’s good news.” Waverly dropped her hands from Nicole’s shoulders and turned to face Jeremy. Nicole took a small step away from her.

Jeremy rubbed the back of his neck and shrugged. “Front desk says there are no available rooms currently. Rosita has offered for Wyn to stay with her, but she only has room for one.” His eyes flicked over to Nicole for a second before focusing back on Waverly. “And I would offer for you to stay with me, but Robin is occupying the other half of the bed and I don’t think sleeping on the couch there would be comfortable. Or any sleeping arrangement we’d come up with.”

Waverly shook her head. “No, it’s fine. We’re only here for a few more days so I’ll be–”

“I have space in my room,” Nicole blurted out. “T-the bed is big enough. And it’s just me in there.” They looked at Waverly. “Just me.”

Waverly bit her lip and looked down at the worn leather of her boots, pretending to think the offer over. She wanted to scream yes! but didn’t want to seem too eager. This was the perfect opportunity to get closer to Nicole, maybe even snap a few photos of them and pitch the merch idea she had come up with earlier. But coming in too hot could ruin everything.

“I guess…” Waverly took a deep breath and looked up at Jeremy, who was watching her with a knowing look. “I guess if you’re offering, and you’re sure…”

“I am.” Nicole’s voice was firm.

“Then who am I to turn down such an offer?”

“Good. Great.” Nicole smiled and buried their hands in their pockets. “Yeah. I’m going to go clean up the place a bit. You know the room. Just knock when you get there.”

They looked at Waverly for a prolonged moment before walking back into the building, leaving Waverly standing in shock and Jeremy staring at her, grinning. Waverly blinked and looked at Jeremy, her face reddening instantly. Jeremy’s grin grew into a smirk.

“Don’t do that.” Waverly crossed her arms and averted her eyes.

“Do what? I’m not doing anything.”

“You’re looking at me like that . Stop it.”

Jeremy pretended to check his nails. “They were totally hitting on you, Waverly.”

Waverly laughed incredulously. “They most certainly were not.”

“Did you not notice the way they were caressing your face literally five minutes ago?”

“It’s called grounding, Jer. Helps with panic attacks?”

Jeremy raised an eyebrow and pursed his lips. “And the whole insisting you stay in their room thing?”

“Nicole is just being nice.” Waverly crossed her arms defensively, trying desperately to keep her heart from beating any louder. “I didn’t want to be mean and say no.”

“That’s the only reason you agreed, sure.” Jeremy nodded and spun to face the door. “Just make sure the door is secured shut, or else your sister is going to kick it down once she finds out where you’ll be.”

*

“She’s staying where ?” Wynonna’s eyes widened.

“Okay, Earp, cut the crap. Really.” Rosita rolled her eyes and stood in front of the door to her room. “You’re acting like Nicole is a murderer or something.”

“They’re a lesbian who is hitting on my baby sister. My baby sister who is very clearly flirting back.”

Rosita crossed her arms. “Have you not been flirting with me all day?”

“You can’t compare those things.” Wynonna scoffed and tried to push past the smaller woman. “They’re…false equivalencies.”

“I don’t think you used that word correctly, seeing as those things are comparable.” Rosita seized Wynonna’s shoulders and pushed her further into the room. “I’m going to need you to take several deep breaths and calm down. This whole Protective Big Sister act you have going on?” Wynonna raised an eyebrow. “While I find it” -Rosita moved her hands to grip the edges of Wynonna’s leather jacket- “painfully attractive, Nicole is harmless.”

Wynonna sighed and sat down on the bed, running a hand through her hair. “I know you’re right, but I can’t help it. Waves doesn’t exactly have the best taste in romantic partners.”

Rosita pursed her lips and sat down next to Wynonna. “I’m going to assume you didn’t mean that as an insult to my best friend and reassure you, again, that Nicole is a good one.” She rested a hand on Wynonna’s knee, running her thumb over the fraying hole there. “I think they have a lot in common with Waverly, actually.”

“You and Jeremy both keep tiptoeing around Nicole’s mysterious aura and I’ve been debating whether or not I should ask for clarification. Bitch needs a lot of details to understand simple concepts sometimes.”

Rosita giggled and squeezed Wynonna’s knee. “You’re adorable.”

“But seriously.” Wynonna lowered her voice, growing more serious. “What’s their deal?”

The question wasn’t accusatory or malicious. Wynonna suspected it had to do with Nicole’s family, or their past, or some combination of the two, but it was getting frustrating. If she was going to relax and trust Waverly’s judgment, she’d at least like to know who she was dealing with. Lurking in live streams and Instagram comment sections can only reveal so much. Rosita was quiet for several minutes, gathering her thoughts and trying to figure out how much she should say.

“It isn’t my story to tell, nor my place to say much of anything,” she started. “But there are things I know they wouldn’t mind me sharing. You just have to promise me that none of this will ever leave the walls of this room.”

“Is it really that serious?” Wynonna snorted softly. “What, did they commit murder or something?” Rosita stared at her, unmoving, a fire burning in her eyes. “Not the time for jokes, got it. You have my word.”

“They weren’t always like this, hyper-critical of their every move in the public eye.” Rosita shook her head and stood up. “They went to college for history and were apparently at the top of their class. But right before they were set to graduate…everything went to shit.”

Wynonna watched Rosita pace around the room as she launched into a brief, yet detailed, story of Nicole’s last year of college. They had only been out for a few years, and everyone seemed to be fine with it. It was also before Nicole came to terms with their gender identity, Rosita made sure to highlight, which is why they struggle more with how people react to their sexuality than their gender identity. There was a party one of their classmates was holding at one of his fraturinities and Nicole decided to go with their girlfriend at the time.

“Nicole said it was important to show up with her. They were ready to make things public with her. It was a huge step.”

Wynonna nodded slowly, unable to see Nicole as anyone but the tall, confident person they were now.

“Minor details aside, they got really drunk and someone caught them making out in the corner of the living room.” Rosita rolled her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose. “A picture was taken and circulated around gossip blogs on campus, printed in the school paper, all of that stupid high school shit.”

“Wait, why? Seems kind of a pervy thing to do, especially to a nobody. No offense.”

Rosita shook her head. “No, you’re right. Their girlfriend was the cheer captain, did I mention that?” Wynonna shook her head. “Right, well she was closeted and had a lot of social currency. So when someone spotted her locking lips with the ‘local lesbian’ people lost their minds.”

Rumors spread like wildfire that Nicole had coerced the girl into hooking up with them. One of them even said they had paid her to be seen with them to boost their status, something that seemingly backfired horribly. Once the gossip had finally died down and Nicole had talked it out and made up with the girl, that’s when they got the call about their mom.

“She got super sick weeks before graduation.” Rosita sighed, knowing she was sharing too much, but pushed on anyway. “The medical bills piled up. Nic’s dad picked up extra shifts at work, but it wasn’t enough.”

“So they dropped out?”

“They dropped out and moved back home to take care of her. She eventually got better, which is when Nicole’s career had really started taking off, and why they had moved to Purgatory.”

“I still don’t understand why this shit hole was their choice of paradise.” Wynonna flopped back onto the mattress, trying to ease the tension. “It’s like…the worst.”

“It’s a small town. Somewhat open minded. They had hope. Wanted a new start.”

“That makes sense. Same reason Waves abandoned her lease in one of those fancy Big City penthouses to move back in with little ole me.”

“You and Waverly are very close.” The observation hit Wynonna unexpectedly. She shifted uncomfortably.

“We weren’t always.”

“What happened?” Rosita laid down on her side, tracing a loose strand of hair along the side of Wynonna’s face.

Wynonna searched the other woman’s face, finding nothing but sincerity. She squirmed under Rosita’s gaze and looked away, shrugging.

“We’re as close as ever now. That’s all that matters.”

Understanding that Wynonna didn’t want to talk about the subject anymore, Rosita stilled her hand. Her thumb drifted along the skin beneath Wynonna’s eyes, over the purple bags caused by her severe lack of sleep. Wynonna closed her eyes, letting herself accept the gesture without pulling away or deflecting.

“What do you think Nicole and Waverly are up to?” Rosita asked after several long minutes of comfortable silence.

Wynonna scoffed. “Waverly’s bedtime is nine so I’m sure Haught is sitting there watching her sleep like a creep.” She joked with a light shove to Rosita’s arm.

“Just for that I’m going to bet all I have that they’re making out.”

Wynonna’s eyes flew open and she sat up on her elbows. “Take that back right now. That is not an image I needed in my head.”

“Hey, I’m just forming a conclusion based on the evidence!” Rosita laughed when Wynonna pinned her shoulder down. “The sexual tension was off the charts, Earp. You really can’t deny that.”

Wynonna rolled her eyes and kicked her boots off, tossed her jacket into a chair, too tired to change. “I am simply not going to make a comment on that since I’m tired and refuse to go to sleep thinking about Haught Pants and my baby sister locking lips.” She covered her face with one of the firm pillows under her head. “Goodnight, Rosie.”

“Sure, that’s why.” Rosita reached over and patted Wynonna’s arm. “Totally not because you know I’m right and you just don’t want to admit it.” Wynonna blindly chucked a pillow in Rosita’s direction, smirking when it hit her desired target.

Chapter Text

Nicole felt all tension leave their body when the hot stream of water hit their back. A shower was the last thing they wanted, but the thought of having to share a bed with Waverly had caused immense panic to seize their body. They had tried to shake the nerves, attempted to convince themself that there was nothing to worry about. It was just Waverly.

Just Waverly. Sure, that’s all it was. Not the girl who was as beautiful as Sapphos herself. Not the girl who looked at Nicole with such sincerity, looking at them and not through them.

Just Waverly.

It was scary, feeling so much for someone you’ve only really known for a day. It was dangerous, too, Nicole reminded themself. They didn’t need to be getting involved with anyone right now. One night stands didn’t interest them and, even if they did, Nicole was even less interested in the idea of Wynonna Earp hunting them down for sleeping with her sister. The thought sent a shiver down Nicole’s spine.

Besides, relationships were off the table for the time being. They needed to focus on their mom. And figuring out how to make it through the rest of their apartment  lease in Purgatory. And also on practicing self love, which was probably the one thing they were incapable of. There were too many factors going into every reason why Nicole shouldn’t pursue Waverly, so they promptly pushed her bright eyes and charming smile from their mind, shoving her infectious laughter into a box and pushing that box into a locked drawer.

Nicole groaned and rested their forehead against the cool tile of the shower.

Even if Nicole wanted to pursue Waverly – which they totally did not, thank you very much – what made them think she would be interested? Since the moment they met, all Nicole had done was make a fool of themself. Their anxiety was typically hard to handle, especially at events like conventions, but they had always managed to cope. Therapy and all of those other fun things Rosita suggested they do sometimes made it easier.

But with Waverly…it was almost like she blocked the signals Nicole needed to handle their panic. She was some kind of resistor that caused every logical part of their brain to short circuit. Almost as if they were–

“No.” Nicole ran a hand down their face. “You are not gay panicking over Waverly Earp.”

You are, but denial is a natural response.

Nicole rolled their eyes and turned the water off. They stepped out of the shower and grabbed a towel from the counter nearby, using it to quickly dry off. They fastened the towel around their waist and pulled a black sports bra on before moving in front of the mirror. There was an attempt made to mangle their long, wet hair but it ended with a grumble and a quiet string of curses before they threw the brush back onto the counter.

“I’ve been needing a haircut. Suppose this was my reminder.” Nicole sighed and inspected their reflection’s arms. “Just…add it to the list of expenses.”

They leaned in closer to inspect their reflection, not missing the deep purple starting to reveal itself beneath their eyes. Sighing, they braced their hands on the counter and closed their eyes.

“Come on, Haught. Get it together. She’s just a girl.”

But she wasn’t ‘just a girl’ and Nicole knew that. She was someone they had seen around social media and conventions plenty of times. And someone Nicole, they now realized, had purposely avoided getting to know for this exact reason. Waverly was a welcome distraction from all of the shit they’ve been going through, but she was a distraction nonetheless and Nicole needed to get their shit together if they were going to share a bed for the next two nights.

Three sharp knocks on the door snapped Nicole to attention. Without a second thought, they made for the door and pulled it open, revealing Waverly standing on the other side. Biting her lip. In an oversized hoodie. Looking just as nervous as they felt. Which is when they realized—

“Holy shit.” Nicole stumbled back a few steps and tried to cover their mostly bare torso, gripping the towel around their waist until their knuckles went white.

Waverly’s mouth fell open and her cheeks warmed at the sight. She slapped a hand over her eyes, but not before noticing the ink that spread down both of Nicole’s arms, wrapping around their torso…their shoulders. Or the fact that they had abs.

Or how very bisexual she was.

“H…holy shit,” Waverly parroted. “I’m so sorry. I’ll just, um…I’ll wait out here until you…” she waved around with her free hand.

“No, please, come in.” Nicole stepped to the side and reached out. “It’s late and you shouldn’t have to stand out there alone. I’ll just be another minute.” They wrapped their hand around Waverly’s wrist and tugged gently. “Also…I’m not naked. You can look.”

Waverly’s checks flushed warmer at the sound of their laugh, and Nicole felt a similar warmth settle low in their sternum. They cleared their throat and tried to act cool – to act as if Waverly Earp seeing them in nothing but a towel and sports bra had absolutely no effect on them whatsoever – but their Irish blood and pale complexion betrayed them again. And Waverly had a front row seat to see it all unfold.

Nicole stumbled back a few more steps, tripping over their pile of dirty clothes from the day. Waverly quickly reached out and caught them around the waist, moving her hand around their arm briefly before stepping back half a step.

“Are you okay? You look kind of…hot.” Waverly motioned to her own face and neck, indicating the deep flush that continued to spread across Nicole’s skin. She knew it was unnecessary to point it out, but she would be lying if she said seeing Nicole so flustered in her presence didn’t make her feel some kind of way.

“No, yeah, I’m totally f-fine. Mhm.” Nicole tightened the towel around their waist and rummaged around in their duffle bag for a pair of sweatpants. “I’ll, uh…be right back.”

The door was cool against Nicole’s back as they leaned against it. The steam from their shower still hung in the air, fogging the mirror once more and leaving them feeling trapped in the physical embodiment of how their head felt: hazy and uncomfortably hot.

It was fine that Waverly showed up at their door looking impossibly comfortable in a hoodie two sizes too big and shorts Nicole knew she was wearing, but couldn’t see, due to said hoodie. It was fine that Waverly stood in the doorway, trailing her eyes over their torso, visibly blushing.

It was fine.

Nicole was fine .

“I am so far from fine right now!” They whisper-yelled to the mirror as they pulled on their clothes. It became galring clear in the last two minutes that Nicole was absolutely not going to survive the night. Maybe they could sleep in the bathtub. It certainly seemed more comfortable than whatever Waverly was doing to them.

“Hey, I’m sorry–” Nicole stopped just outside the bathroom. Waverly was sitting in the chair at the small desk in the room, staring at their laptop screen.

“What’s all this?” Waverly asked, her eyes remaining glued to the screen.

“Oh, I was…I wasn’t sure when you were going to come.” Nicole rubbed the back of their neck. “I was planning on doing a short stream after I showered. Or maybe answer some emails. I never really decided.”

“You can do that from here? Stream, I mean.”

“Yeah, it’s pretty cool, actually.” Nicole dropped onto the bed, letting their legs hang over the edge. “But it’s nothing compared to my setup back home.”

“Rainbow lights,” Waverly said softly.

Nicole raised an eyebrow. “What was that?”

“Your rainbow lights.” Waverly spun the chair to face Nicole. “Those LED ones you have behind you, I really like them.”

Fighting the smile playing across their lips, Nicole tilted their head. “I mean, they’re pretty cool. But they’re nothing special.”

Waverly shrugged and pulled on the sleeves of her sweatshirt. “I like the way they reflect off of your hair.” Her cheeks flushed bright pink and she quickly looked away.

“I suppose that’s something…” Nicole leaned back on their hands and watched Waverly, waiting for her to meet their eyes. She never did. “Is everything alright?”

Waverly nodded, then shrugged, then nodded again. “I don’t…know?”

“Hey.” Nicole reached out and placed a hand on Waverly’s knee. “Waves, look at me.”

“I’m sorry.” Waverly slowly lifted her head.

Nicole’s brow furrowed and they squeezed Waverly’s leg. “For what?”

Waverly shrugged. “Crashing your party. Invading your space because of my stupid sister , whom I love very much but who is also just…ugh.” She wiped her eyes before any tears could fall. “I know this is the last thing you wanted.”

“I never said that,” Nicole replied firmly. “Why do you think I offered?”

“Because Jeremy was trying to set us up? And he backed you into a corner.”

“But he really didn’t.” Nicole reached further to grab one of the chair’s armrests, pulling Waverly toward them. “He was more than willing to let you crash with him. But I…wanted you here with me.” They took a deep breath and met Waverly’s eyes again. “I wanted you to myself.”

“M-me? Why?”

“I’ve seen the way you’ve been looking at me all day.” Nicole released Waverly’s leg and sat back on their hands. “Can you blame me for wanting to get to know more about the infamous Waverly Earp?”

Waverly cheeks flushed hot again, her mind going void of all thought. “I-I thought you said you didn’t know who I was,” she squeaked out.

Nicole shook their head slowly. “I didn’t, not really. I knew of your sister, and Jer is one of my best friends. He’s mentioned you before, but I never asked any questions or went digging for information.” They looked over Waverly’s shoulder at the crappy painting on the wall behind her. “Until today.”

Waverly choked on her next inhale, coughing into her hand until her eyes watered. Nicole watched her, a smirk playing on their lips.

“You, um, neglected to mention that earlier,” Waverly finally said after recovering.

“Why would I have said anything?” Nicole bit their lip and shrugged. “In all honesty, I was trying to figure out why you were so nice. If you were…I don’t know.” They shook their head and picked at a loose thread on the comforter. “Treating me as some basket case or whatever. Since I’m sure you know everything about me. My past.”

“Nicole,” Waverly’s voice was soft, barely above a whisper. “I told you, I only chased after you because I was worried. I suffer with anxiety too, and what happened today was extremely shitty. You shouldn’t have had to be alone.” She stood up and pushed the chair back toward the desk before sitting down next to Nicole so close that their legs pressed together. “And I know nothing but what Jeremy has told me. I never ask more than what he’s willing to share.”

Nicole opened their mouth to respond but thought better of it.

“I don’t want to know anything you don’t want to talk about,” Waverly continued, laying a hand on Nicole’s thigh palm up. “I’ve been watching you for a while, you know? I think you’re pretty damn amazing, no matter what stories the internet cooks up.” Nicole looked down at Waverly’s hand and hesitantly rested theirs on top of it. “I also think you’re very attractive, but I feel like that might not help sell the point I’m trying to make.”

Nicole chuckled and relaxed their shoulders when Waverly laced their fingers together.

“No, no. Please, do tell me more about how attractive you find me.”

Waverly giggled but her face quickly grew serious. She squeezed Nicole’s hand and leaned into their shoulder. “I think your voice is mesmerizing,” she murmured. “It’s so calming and peaceful, even when you rage out. Especially when you confront trolls.”

Nicole took a deep breath and slowly lowered onto their back, not letting go of Waverly’s hand. Waverly followed their lead and lifted their hands into the air.

“And your accent… Jesus , Nicole it’s–” Waverly squeezed Nicole’s hand again and admired the ink lining their arm. “So fucking hot,” she finished in a whisper.

Nicole released a slow breath and loosened their grip on Waverly’s hand. Waverly went still next to them and stared up at the ceiling, thinking. Worrying. Wondering.

“How long have you been watching me?” Nicole’s voice was quiet. Waverly almost thought she’d imagined it.

They felt Waverly shift into her side, facing them. Nicole moved too. Waverly sighed out the cutest hum and reached out, lighting touching the necklace around Nicole’s neck. She fingered the silver chain, rolling it between her fingers.

“Few years, maybe? I’m not exactly sure.”

Nicole smiled, though Waverly didn’t see it. She was too focused on trying not to look into Nicole’s eyes. Everything about this moment screamed too much . She needed to move away, change the subject, forget about her feelings. But she did none of those things. If anything, her internal struggle had made Nicole move even closer. Like they were a magnet and Waverly was pulling them to her.

“Thank you,” Nicole’s voice, soft and thick with emotion.

Waverly’s hand stilled, the silver chain still wrapped around her finger. “I should be the one thanking you. Your streams are always so entertaining and they’ve helped me through…a lot of…yeah.”

“For sticking around me today.” Nicole’s hand came up to cover Waverly’s, finally pushing the other woman to meet their eyes. “For being my knight in shining armor.”

“You don’t need to be saved,” Waverly whispered. Her eyes dropped to Nicole’s lips for a brief second before snapping back up to their eyes.

“No, but I still was.” Nicole dared to let their stare linger far too long on Waverly’s mouth. “So, thank you.”

“Nicole?” Waverly released her hold on Nicole’s necklace and grabbed a fistfull of their shirt instead.

“Waverly.” It would be impossible to ignore what was happening. They were moving at the same time, Nicole being pulled by Waverly’s hand, until their faces were inches apart.

“I…”

“Don’t overthink it…” Nicole heard themself whisper the mantra Rosita had always said to them before their interviews.

Waverly bit her lip and Nicole just about died right there on the bed. They shoved the negative thoughts away, locking them up to deal with later, and pressed their forehead against Waverly’s. Waverly released a shaky breath and had the nerve to fucking giggle .

That’s it, they were dead. This had to be Tír Tairngire .

The voices of angels were greeting them at the gates, their lips just barely touching, and suddenly…

Reality came crashing back in waves. That was no angel, it was their phone, and Nicole jumped away from Waverly so quickly they nearly fell off of the bed. Which probably would have been less painful than seeing that look on Waverly’s face; something crossed between hurt and confusion.

What the fuck am I doing?

Nicole tore their eyes away from Waverly and looked at their phone, resting screen down on the bedside table. It stopped ringing and the room was silent save for the sound of the sheets moving beneath Waverly’s wait as she pushed herself into a sitting position.

Nicole ran a hand down their face and sighed. “Waverly–”

“You should probably get that.” Waverly motioned toward Nicole’s phone when it started vibrating again before standing up and walking over to her bag across the room. Nicole didn’t miss the way she swiped at her eyes.

They sighed and finally grabbed their phone to see who the hell could possibly be calling them at this hour. Rosita’s name flashed on the screen and Nicole groaned.

Seriously?

Nicole accepted the call and held the phone up to their ear. “Yes?”

“Fucking finally, dude! I’ve texted like twenty times!” Rosita’s voice screeched across the line. Nicole winced.

“Did something else happen?” They pinched the bridge of their nose and sighed. “Do we need to–”

“Check the trending page on Twitter.” Wynonna this time. “Shit is going down, Haught Pants.”

Nicole tore the phone away from their ear and put the call on speaker before opening Twitter. Immediately, their screen flooded with notifications from people tagging them in articles that had been published only hours ago. Headlines from various gossip pages and tabloids bore the words NICOLE HAUGHT LOSES COOL AT CALGARY EXPO 2022 with a gif of Nicole storming out of the hall from earlier that day attached to the top.

Bile slowly crept up their throat. Nicole knew this would happen, it always did. They just thought they’d have more time to prepare. Scrolling through their feed, posts from fans and other gamers blurred together, all talking about the drama. Some were defending Nicole, others taking the opportunity to drag them.

A post from Jeremy read: Nicole is a class act. They aren’t the problem, these journalists are.

They didn’t even dare read the replies attached to it.

“Nic?” Rosita’s voice came from their phone again. “Are you alright?”

“Why the fuck would you tell me about this?” Nicole demanded, suddenly angry. “You know how bad today was already.”

“It’s all over social media.” Wynonna cooed, talking to them like she was their mother. “We figured it was best we told you than you find out tomorrow morning.”

Nicole sucked in a sharp breath and tightened their grip on their phone. Waverly sucked her bottom lip between her teeth, biting hard until it turned white.

“You don’t get to make any decisions for me, Earp. You and I had barely spoken before a day ago. This isn’t your place to butt in.”

They heard Rosita sigh, followed by muffled conversation that could only be her asking Wynonna to give them some space. Nicole pinched the bridge of their nose again, fighting every urge to glance over at Waverly.

“I understand your anger,” Rosita said softly after a moment. “It’s my fault for letting her speak. I’m sorry.”

“I’m so tired, Rosita.” Nicole sounded defeated, their voice hoarse from trying to hold back tears. “I don’t want this anymore.”

“I know you are, babe.” Nicole could feel Waverly’s curious stare from across the room at the name. They waved a dismissive hand. “Look, I’m going to handle all of this, okay? Just…try to get some rest? Or relax? Spend some more time trying to flirt with Wav-”

Nicole frantically smashed the end call button and threw their phone across the bed.

“Oh my god,” they groaned and buried their head in their hands.

The room was silent for a measurable amount of time. Waverly continued to stare at Nicole, studying them. Wanting to, but not knowing if she should, pull them back into the moment they had before the phone rang. She knew it wouldn’t be worth it. Nicole probably regretted it all anyway.

“I’m so sorry,” Nicole was mumbling over and over. “Rosie’s just tired of me being alone and bothering her with my love life. Or…lack thereof.” Waverly found herself biting back a smile, Nicole’s ability to care about the most unimportant things never ceasing to amuse her.

Nicole grabbed fistfulls of their red locks and gave a gentle tug, trying to ground themself and stop the panic before it fully set in. Any other day, at any other convention, on any other panel, this kind of thing would cause only mild discomfort to them; disrupting their life for a few hours and then it being forgotten by morning. But everything was different this time.

Because she was there.

Rumors were sure to start flying soon, the token lesbian of Purgatory’s gaming community suddenly spotted being cozy with Jeremy Chetri’s former social media manager and alleged ex. It was the perfect setup for every gossip blog and Nicole knew Waverly would want as far away from them as possible when it happened.

The bed suddenly dipped beside them and Nicole went still. Waverly’s hands found their own, untangling their fingers from their hair and guiding them back to their lap. Except she didn’t let go of Nicole’s right hand. She held it tightly, swiping her thumb along the inside of Nicole’s wrist, eyes trailing over the forest of ink on their forearm.

“Do you like to go camping?” Waverly asked suddenly.

“I--?” Nicole blinked three times, eyebrows creasing in confusion. “Yeah, I-I love it.”

“Is that why you got this one?” Waverly’s free hand traveled up their arm, brushing lightly over a sunset behind the line of trees, the subtle burst of color behind the black ink.

“My coming out journey hasn’t exactly been the most liberating experience for me,” Nicole started. “My sexuality was generally accepted, but I still felt the shift regardless. The way friends started canceling plans, family members showed up to events less frequently. I felt like an outcast in my own community for using the lesbian label. It was terrifying, having to go through all of that alone.”

“I thought you said your parents accepted you?” Waverly reached up and tucked a stray hair behind Nicole’s ear.

Nicole nodded, then shrugged. “They do. But I’m an only child, and I never really had many friends. And once I started making a name for myself on the internet, I was harassed by bigots.”

“You want me to mess them up?” Waverly narrowed her eyes, lifting a fist to appear more intimidating. She turned to face Nicole fully, pulling one of her legs up on the bed. Her eyes met Nicole’s and all they saw was fire burning there.

Nicole chuckled and shook their head, covering Waverly’s fist with their hand. “Nah, I think they all still live in their mum’s basements. Threat level is a definite zero.”

“Alright, well, you let me know if they keep bothering you. I’ll…I’ll fuck them up.” Waverly tried to keep from laughing, not able to take herself seriously. Nicole squeezed both of her hands in response.

“Anyway,” they shook their head, “um…forests often symbolize lawlessness. Freedom. I came out publicly for myself, not anyone else. I wanted that control. I was told it was a reckless thing to do, as an influencer, but I truly did not give a shit. Still don’t.”

“You know, when I asked you earlier if your tattoos had any meaning,” Waverly scooted closer to Nicole, her shin pressing against Nicole’s thigh, “I didn’t actually expect them to be so…empowering.”

Nicole blushed but didn’t try to hide it. “I want to be my own person. Not just Nicole Haught, the lesbian gamer from Ireland. I wanted to be just…Nicole Haught in the truest form.”

“I think that’s amazing,” Waverly murmured and drew in a shaky breath. “You know, I still think this is all so weird.” She shook her head at Nicole’s confused look. “Sitting here, alone with you. Nicole Haught, one of the people I’ve only dreamt of meeting someday.”

“Oh, so this is just some crazy fangirl fantasy of yours?” Nicole gently tugged on Waverly’s hands, effectively pulling her closer. “Getting me alone so you can kiss me?”

Waverly’s face reddened instantly and she tried to look away, but Nicole caught her chin between their fingers. Waverly bit her lip and leaned into her instincts, following Nicole’s lead.

“It’s not that, not really,” Waverly whispered. Nicole waited for her to say more, but she didn’t.

They sat back, releasing Waverly from their grasp, and stared at her. Their eyes traced Waverly’s face, picking up on years of heavily guarded secrets and a wanting that was so familiar it cracked their chest wide open.

Waverly caught the way Nicole’s expression softened, barely noticeable but still there, and something inside of her snapped. She jumped up from the bed and made straight for her bag that she had dropped on the floor when she first stepped into the room.

“I wanted to show you something that I was working on earlier, before I worked up enough courage to come up here.” She pulled a tablet from the bag and sat down on the edge of the bed.

Nicole stayed silent while Waverly scrolled through what they could only assume to be designs she’s worked on. Her fingers slowed over an image, and she stared down at the screen in silent contemplation.

“I know you’ve been trying to rebrand some of your merch, and that you’ve had a lot of trouble coming up with something you actually like.”

“You can only come up with so many Haught puns.” Nicole huffed out a laugh and sat up straighter.

“That’s why…” Waverly smiled and hugged the tablet against her chest. “I wanted to try doing something that didn’t use a pun.”

Waverly passed the tablet to Nicole and their eyes landed on a bright orange flame in the middle of the screen, the words Too Haught? just above and below the design. Nicole sucked their bottom lip between their teeth and scrolled down the page, seeing different variations of the same design. Some were different colors - flames ranging from blue to green to purple - and it was clear Waverly spent some time finding a font she liked best. The blocky letters and white outline tied the whole thing together somehow.

“I know it’s simple, but I kind of had the feeling that you weren’t trying to go for something too obnoxious.” Waverly scooted closer to Nicole, feeling more confident after seeing the small smile on Nicole’s face.

“It’s…perfect.” Nicole breathed out. “It’s quite funny, actually.” They turned to face Waverly and sat the tablet aside. “The first time Jer and I interacted, he was watching one of my streams. I kept dying in this game, gods I don’t even remember what I was playing, and nearly rage quit. He sent me some bits saying something like, ‘Whoa there, the competition too Haught for ya?’ and it kind of became our thing.”

Waverly smiled brightly. “I know the story. Like I said earlier, Jeremy talks about you all the time.”

“Waves, this is…I don’t know what to say.”

“It’s been a while since I’ve done any kind of graphic design, so it’s not my best work but–” Nicole placed their hand on Waverly’s knee, effectively cutting her rambling short.

“I love it.” Nicole placed the tablet on the bed between them and reached for Waverly’s hand. She let them take it. “And I want to use it. But only on one condition.”

Waverly nodded slowly. “I’m listening.”

“You let me pay you for these designs, and give you a percentage of all the proceeds.”

“What? Nicole, no, these are for you .”

“I understand that, but the plan has always been to compensate the artist for their contributions. I don’t ask for free handouts, even if they’re from friends.”

“I really don’t think it’s necessary but,” Waverly sighed, “fine. But only the one time payment. You keep the rest from sales.”

Nicole shrugged and grinned. “What if you just…joined my team?”

Waverly’s eyes went wide. “J-join your team? As in work for you?”

“More like work with me, but yeah.”

There was a long moment of silence. Waverly’s eyes stayed on Nicole, urging them to say something else, to offer her another opportunity. When they didn’t, she stood and grabbed the tablet off of the bed.

“You’re moving back to Ireland,” Waverly said after a long pause. “I can’t just pack up my life and leave on a whim, or…or at all.” She looked away from Nicole, trying to put as much space between them and herself as possible. She was already too attached, she couldn’t afford any of this.

“And I’m not asking you to.” Nicole quickly stood up and reached for Waverly’s hand. “It would be a remote thing, just until I can get everything sorted out.”

Giving up their apartment in Purgatory was the last thing they wanted to do, but it was one of their only options to help their mom. Nicole swore they would never return to their hometown, not after all of the fights. Moving across the sea was what they needed for a fresh start and it had helped dramatically over the years. But then they got the call about chemo and their deadbeat dad leaving and dumping the bills on their mom.

She was out of a job and couldn’t cover the annual costs for treatment even with what had been put away before the cancer had spread. So Nicole had decided to move back home and take care of her, despite how awkward they knew it was going to be. Being a moderately large streamer still didn’t bring in a lot of income, so they were waiting out the end of their lease on the apartment. Getting that expense off of their list of bills would help push them the rest of the way.

Hopefully.

“I haven’t worked with anyone since the whole Jeremy thing,” Waverly whispered. Nicole tightened their grip on her hand. “I don’t know if I’m ready to jump back into the spotlight yet.”

“Then we won’t make it public. Your name stays out of it until you say otherwise.”

“Nicole, I…”

“Waverly,” Nicole dropped Waverly’s hand and braced both of her shoulders, “I want you. Not just your art or your talent or your designs. I want you . I’m not asking you to move, I’m not asking you to put your name out there, but I am asking you to trust me. Trust us.” They took a step back and held a hand out. “So, will you? Trust me?”

Waverly looked between Nicole and their hand and back again. “Oh hell.” She grabbed Nicole’s hand and gave it a firm shake before pulling them in and crashing their lips together.