Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hi everyone and welcome to the story!

This is an old fanfic that I published on Wattpad in 2017 and never finished, but I finally have the motivation to finish it and write the sequel that I had planned to coincide with this story. Due to this, I figured it would be a good idea to post it on here as well.

Also, this story will have features and an age gap between you and Rodrick of about 3 to 3 and 1/2 years. However, I promise it really isn't that weird between the two characters, and the story really is fluffy.

The story is also going to be structured a little differently, with each chapter being a snapshot of an important part of your and Rodrick's friendship/relationship from each year you grow up.

Also, apologies if this story makes any of the characters seem weird or out of character but it's been ages since I read the books, and I mostly based it on the 2010-2012 movies.

Please enjoy!

Chapter Text

This is your outfit

This is your outfit

Y/N= Your Name

L/N= Last Name

You were 13 and your family had just moved to Plainview. Your father had gotten a promotion at work and the company decided to relocate him to the Plainview branch. You were happy for your dad and the money that this new job would bring however, you really wish the move didn't have to happen during the middle of 8th grade. Middle school sucked already, and now you had to go through it in another town far away from your friends.

" Y/N, can you come help me with these boxes?" Your mother called from the back of the car.

"Coming." Pausing the music on your phone, you stood up from your spot on the front steps to go help your mom.

"Thank you, sweetie." She says handing you a box labeled "Kitchenware". You begin to follow her to the house.

"GREG! YOU ARE SO DEAD!!!" You hear someone shout. You turn to look.

The front door to the house across the street flies open as a brown-haired boy about your age runs full speed off the porch and into the front yard. He looks over his shoulder as a taller boy with dark spiky hai chases after him, most likely his older brother. The older boy tackles the younger one to the ground and the two begin to wrestle.

"Those boys look nice, you should make friends." Your mom gestures to the pair across the street.

"I don't need help making friends Mom. I'm fine being alone." You put your headphones back on and headed inside with the boxes.

"If you say so, honey." Your mom shakes her head, following you into the house.

By the time you and your parents had unpacked everything and you had set up your room the way you liked it, it was close to midnight.

"You should head to bed Y/N. You have school tomorrow." Your mom said.

"Ugh! Don't remind me. " You sighed, hugging your mom goodnight.

"Hey cheer up kiddo, our new life starts tomorrow." Your dad adds, pulling you into a hug himself.

"I guess I'm kinda excited." You admitted before heading upstairs to your bedroom.

***

"Out of my way emo freak!" A preppy-looking girl with pigtails screeched, pushing you aside. To say that your first day of school at Westmore was a living hell would have been an understatement.

"Whatever..." You muttered fixing your flannel. You bent down to pick up your books that had fallen when the girl pushed you.

"The only freak around here is you Patty Farrell!" You hear a voice call from behind you. You turn around to see the brunette boy from yesterday.

"Oh my gosh! Greg Heffley has a crush on the emo girl!" Patty calls out, earning a glance from a few students in the hall.

"No I don't." Greg said defensively, his voice cracking.

Patty giggled. "What a loser." She rolled her eyes and walked away.

"Don't take it personal, that's just Patty." Greg told you, handing back a notebook as he helped you pick up the last of your stuff. "I haven't seen you around before."

"Yeah I'm new. My family just moved here. Right across the street from you actually."

"Oh so you're the new family my mom was talking about. I'm Greg Heffley." He held out his hand and you shook it.

" Y/N L/N . Nice meeting you." You said, starting to walk away.

"Wait," He called after you. "Do you need help finding your class?"

"Actually yeah I do. I have biology next."

"Me too. Let me show you the way." He smiled. You smiled back, following him to your next class.

"So Y/N do you like video games?"

"Are you kidding? I'm a beast at Twisted Wizard!" You bragged proudly.

"No way, I love that game!" Greg replied excitedly. "Maybe you could come over after school and we can play it?"

"I'd love to."

"Sounds great."

***

The rest of the school day was pretty boring. The only memorable thing was meeting Greg's friend Rowley. The two seemed really nice and you liked them, despite the fact that they were really kind of nerdy.

You counted down the seconds to the end of the last period, rushing outside when the bell rang. You met up with Greg and Rowley at the front of the school. The three of you started walking to Greg's house.

"What are you listening to?" Rowley asked, gesturing to your headphones.

"Bring Me the Horizon."

"Cool. Are they like Joshie?"

"Here, have a listen." You take off your headphones, handing them to Rowley.

"Woah..." Rowley's eyes widened as he heard the rock music blare in his ears.

You giggled softly, taking the headphones back. "I know right."

"C'mon guys." Greg whined, urging you two to hurry up.

"Race you!" You shouted to the boys, running the last block to the Heffley household. Greg ended up beating you, opening the door as you and Rowley stood on the porch, trying to catch your breath.

A brown-haired woman with glasses stood in the kitchen preparing dinner as you entered. She appeared to be in her forties and smiled when she saw you three. "Hi Mom." Greg greeted.

"Hello Mrs. Heffley." Rowley added.

You gave her a small nod, not really sure of how to respond.

"Greg. Why don't you introduce me to your friend?" Susan asked her son.

"That's Y/N. Her family just moved here." He said with a shrug, wanting to end the conversation so he could go play his video games.

"Nice to meet you Y/N. I would really like to meet your parents. Maybe we can have you all over for dinner sometime."

"That sounds nice Mrs. Heffley." You said politely before being yanked away by an impatient Greg.

"Homework first right?" Mrs. Heffley asked with a skeptical face.

"Of course." Greg lied. The three of you started to head to the living room.

"And keep it down, I finally got Manny to take his nap." She called after you.

"Yeah, yeah." Greg responded half-heartedly, continuing on his way to the TV.

Suddenly the path was blocked by a form. Greg and Rowley stopped short, causing you to bang into the person.

"Owf! Watch where you're going shortie!" They yelled.

You looked up and your heart started to melt. A tall, lanky teenage boy stood blocking your path. You recognized him as Greg's older brother. You stood mesmerized by his brown shaggy hair and punky smile. He had on a faded band tee and a pair of ripped black skinny jeans, similar to your own style.

"Out of the way Rodrick!" Greg yelled, pushing him slightly.

"Not going to happen." Rodrick chuckled, spreading himself further across the doorframe.

Greg tried to crawl underneath Rodrick's outspread arms, but Rodrick put him in a headlock, shoving his armpit in Greg's face.

"Smell the love!" Rodrick laughed.

"Let me go!" Greg shouted, trying to pull free.

"Boys no fighting!" Mrs. Heffley called from the kitchen.

Rodrick let Greg go, pushing him into the living room. Rowley quickly scrambled after him. You stayed in the hallway staring at Rodrick in awe.

He made a face. "What are you looking at?"

"Nothing..." You replied dreamily before following the boys into the other room. Rodrick trailed behind you, lazily throwing himself on the couch.

You saw Rowley and Greg bent over the TV, setting up the game and quickly went over to help them.

"What do you got there Greggy?" Rodrick taunted from the couch.

"Leave me alone."

Rodrick walked over and took the video game case out of his hand.

"Hey give that back!" Greg yelled.

Rodrick held it over Greg's head, making him jump for it. "You gotta try harder than that Greg."

Just when the game was within Greg's reach, Rodrick pushed him away and dashed up the stairs.

"RODRICK!" Greg chased after him.

You and Rowley exchanged glances before following the other two upstairs. You made it just in time to see Rodrick slam the door in Greg's face.

"C'mon open up." Greg pleaded, pounding on the door.

Rodrick called back a muffled "No way loser!" through the closed door. Loud rock music began to blare from inside the room.

"What are we going to do?" Rowley asked Greg who shrugged.

"We're going in there." You said, gesturing towards the door.
"Are you crazy?! Rodrick will kill us!" Greg hissed.

"Yeah, and his room smells weird." Rowley added in.

You shook your head and knocked on the door.

"I said go away Greg!" Rodrick was faintly heard over the music.

You knocked again, this time louder.

Rodrick sighed loudly before you heard shuffling in the room. The music lowered and the door opened. Rodrick leaned against the door frame with an annoyed look on his face.

You had a clear plan on what you were going to say once that door opened, but as soon as you met eyes with Rodrick you became tongue-tied and weak in the knees.

"Hi..." You laughed nervously.

"What?" Rodrick growled.

"Um...hi..."

Rodrick rolled his eyes and started to close the door.

"Wait!" You stopped him before he shut it all the way. "Um...er-Greg, well uh, I mean I was, ah wondering if you could give the game back..but um...on second thought-why, why don't you just keep it...." You stammered out awkwardly, ending on a giggle.

"Whatever." Rodrick rolled his eyes, slamming the door in your face.

You sighed deeply, letting your body slide down the wall and onto the floor, still giggling to yourself.

"I think Y/N likes your brother." Rowley whispered.

He didn't have to though, you were so lost in thought that you heard nothing but your own daydream about Rodrick.

"Oh no!" Greg groaned shaking his head. This couldn't be happening.

Chapter Text

You were 14 and had just started high school. Although being a freshman wasn't the greatest experience, it was still a thousand times better than middle school.

A lot had changed for you in a little under a year. You had become closer to Greg and Rowley and now considered the pair your best friends. And while you still had a love for emo music, you had given up your punk style for a more casual and preppy one. Most importantly, although you were crushing on Rodrick stronger than ever, you were finally able to actually form normal sentences around him.

You occasionally saw him while passing from class to class in the hallway. He usually hung out with his other Lӧded Diper bandmates, causing havoc in the halls and skipping class. You couldn't tell if it was his general persona, or if being a senior just gave him a heightened sense of pride and recklessness.

As usual, Greg, Rowley, and you met up at the front of the school and started the walk to the Heffley house. The three of you had been assigned as partners on a history project and you were dreading having to work on it. On the bright side, Greg's parents were letting you and Rowley sleep over, so you hoped you could at least sneak in some video games in between your research on the Ancient Egyptians.

A white van with the words "Lӧded Diper" spray painted on the side pulled up beside you. You recognized it as Rodrick's death trap of a vehicle.

Rodrick rolled down the window on the passenger's side.

"Mom says I have to give you losers a ride home." He tapped the steering wheel impatiently.

"We're walking home." Greg argued.

Rodrick let out a huff before getting out of the van and opening the door to the back. The inside of the van was covered with trash and had no seats.

"No way I'm getting in there." Greg shook his head.

"C'mon, ladies first!" Rodrick shoved you inside.

"I think something died back here." You called, coughing at the smell of the car.

Rodrick didn't respond but rather threw Greg and Rowley in as well, causing them to crash into you. He then slammed the door shut and jumped into the front seat before hitting the gas and speeding out of the parking lot.

***

Rodrick was by far the worst driver you had ever seen in your entire life. He drove recklessly through the quiet suburban streets, running through red lights, and cutting over curbs. The three of you in the back banged into each other as you were jerked around. By the time you arrived at the Heffley house, you were fairly certain that your body was badly bruised.

Once the van stopped, the boys quickly jumped out, gasping for air. You lay on your back in the car, still dazed from the ride.

"Ground. Sweet ground!" Rowley cried, kissing the sidewalk.

Pulling yourself together, you managed to sit up. You felt something sticking into your leg and reached down to see what it was.

"AHHHH!" You cried, jumping out of the car as you realized you had just picked up one of Rodrick's dirty magazines.

"Don't touch anything!" He yelled, picking it up and throwing it back into the van.

Greg noticed something fall to the ground when Rodrick grabbed the magazine. Bending down to pick it up, he saw it was an envelope. "What's this?"

Rodrick quickly turned around, snatching it out of Greg's hand. "What did I just tell you! Don't touch anything!" He growled. Then looking over the envelope, causally added, "It's my acceptance letter to Penn State."

"You got into college?!" Greg scoffed.

Rodrick grabbed him by the collar. "That's right, and I swear if you tell Mom and Dad, I will literally kill you! They cannot know I'm able to achieve stuff or they'll start expecting me to do the laundry or wash the dishes." He whispered harshly, letting Greg go. "Now beat it!" He yelled to the three of you.

You all scrambled inside and headed to Greg's room.

***

"Alright, so here's the plan tonight. I say we watch The Hand and then video games." Greg announced, spinning in his desk chair.

"But what about the project?" Rowley whined.

"Forget the project. Let's have some fun!"

"Isn't that movie really scary?"

"Rowley you need to learn how to live a little. Right Y/N ?"

You shook your head. "I dunno. I agree with Rowley. That project is 50% of our grade!"

Greg shot you a disapproving look.

"Besides," You argued. "The quicker we finish, the less we have to worry about it."

"Fine." Greg sighed, giving in to you.

You and Rowley each pulled a chair over to Greg's desk while he opened up his laptop and began to type something about the pyramids into Google.

"What do you think of this?" Greg asked you, pointing out the first website he saw.

You shrugged.

You heard someone making kissing noises behind you. You all turned to see Rodrick in the hallway, pretending to make out with the air. "Awww....Greg's got a crush." He cooed.

"Go away!" Greg stood up and shut the door.

"Mwuh, mwuh, mwuh..." Rodrick continued to call, chuckling to himself.

"Ignore him." Greg shook his head, taking back his place at the desk.

The door opened again, this time Susan stood in the doorway with a stern look on her face. "What are you still doing in your room? I sent Rodrick to tell you dinner is ready."

"I told him Mom, but he just slammed the door in my face." Rodrick called out over her shoulder, playing dumb.

Susan gave Greg a look before going downstairs.

"Jerk." Greg muttered to Rodrick as you all followed Mrs. Heffley to the dining room.

***

You tried to concentrate on your food as you sat next to Rodrick at the kitchen table, but you couldn't help but steal an occasional glance in his direction every time his head was turned. Rodrick was too busy teasing Greg to care. He continued to make kissy faces and gesture towards you. Greg glared at him.

"So, what's new in your lives?" Susan asked, placing a plate of rolls on the table and taking her seat.

Greg saw this as an opportunity to get back at Rodrick. "Actually mom, I think Rodrick has some exciting news."

"Well, Rodrick what is it?" Susan smiled.

"Um, nothing! Ah, no news." Rodrick stuttered out, shaking his head. He quickly shoved a large piece of pot roast in his mouth and shot Greg a warning look.

"Sure there is," Greg smirked. "Something about college."

"Um, I think I need to use the bathroom." Rowley called out, hurrying out of the tense situation forming in the room.

"College?!" Frank asked shocked.

Rodrick nervously shoved more food in his mouth.

"Yeah, college..." Greg repeated.

Rodrick stood up, preparing to make a lunge at Greg before sitting back down when he felt his parents' eyes on him.

"Well?" Susan asked, prompting Rodrick to tell the story.

"I got accepted to Penn State." Rodrick muttered through a mouthful of food, rolling his eyes.

"Penn State! That's amazing, honey!" Susan jumped up, rushing over to hug her son.

"I don't know how you did it." Frank shook his head in disbelief.

"Oh my gosh! My baby's going to college!!!" Mrs. Heffley cried, squeezing Rodrick tighter.

"Our son's going to college!" Frank beamed.

"Mom!" Rodrick called out harshly, trying to free himself from his mother's grasp.

Greg started laughing at his brother's situation but immediately stopped when Rodrick gave him a dirty look.

"I'm so proud of you!" Susan gushed. She pulled away from the hug and returned to her seat.

Seeing that the situation had returned to normal, Rowley slipped back into his own chair next to Greg.

"Congratulations." You mumbled softly.

Rodrick looked disgusted at you. Then, noticing that his parents were still talking to each other about college, whispered to you, "Greg keeps a diary."

Greg's face got flushed. "No I don't!"

"Really?" You giggled excitedly.

Rodrick smiled smugly and nodded.

"Yeah well Y/N has a crush on you!" Greg blurted out.

"GREG!" You shrieked.

"Oh-ho-ho shortie! That's really lame." Rodrick laughed.

You blushed as you stared at your plate, pushing at your meal with your fork, hoping to hide your embarrassment.

It didn't matter Rodrick was crying with laughter beside you. So much so, that he fell out of his chair, rolling to the floor.

You shot Greg a death glare.

He tried giving you an apologetic look, but he knew it was too late.

The secret was out.

Chapter Text

“Woah…” Greg breathed taking the pair of binoculars away from his face. He handed them to Rowley before falling onto his bed in a daze.

Rowley put the binoculars up to his own eyes. “Zoo Wee Mama…” He echoed in the same dreamy tone as Greg.

“What are you nerds doing!” Rodrick shouted, throwing open the door to Greg’s room. Both boys jumped.

Rodrick raised an eyebrow as he saw Greg sitting on his bed with a pillow on his lap and Rowley frozen in fear with a pair of binoculars around his neck.

“Let go baby hippo.” Rodrick yanked the binoculars from Rowley’s neck, nearly choking him in the process.

“Let’s have a look.”He put them on, pointing them out the window in the general direction the youngers boys had just been watching.

“Oh no way…” Rodrick gasped.

You were 15 and had just come back from a family vacation. You stood in the driveway, adjusting the straps of your tank top as you helped your dad take the suitcases out of the car. The boys hadn’t seen you all summer and were surprised by the sight that greeted them.

You had grown boobs.

Rodrick took off the binoculars and just stared in shock. “Well… Y/N has gotten...taller.”  He finally stuttered out, trying to sound unimpressed.

“Don’t tell mom.” Greg pleaded.

“Tell me what?” Susan stood in the doorway confused.

“That, um.. the L/Ns are home.” Rodrick quickly lied. He let out a deep breath when his mom bought it.

“So they are.” She glanced out the window. “Why don’t you boys go help them.”

“Yeah...um, sure.” Rodrick  replied, unsure of himself.

Susan smiled, then gave the three an odd look. “What are your dad’s binoculars doing in here?” She picked them up off of Greg’s desk.

“Ah, we were birdwatching.” Greg faked a smile, hoping his mom would buy the story.

Rodrick nodded enthusiastically, going along with the story.

“Yeah, the boobie bird.” Rowley added in. Greg flicked him in the back of the head, giving him a look that urged him to be quiet.

Greg began to push his mom out of his room. “It’s a project for school.”

Susan gave them all a skeptical look before leaving the room, taking the binoculars with her.

Greg shut the door behind her and locked it.

“What now?” Greg asked Rodrick.

He laughed. “Don’t even try it. You and her,” Rodrick gestured out the window. “Not happening. Especially when I tell her what you’ve been doing!”

Rodrick hurriedly unlocked the door, throwing it open. He raced down the stairs, Greg and Rowley taking off after him.

The three skidded to a halt at the end of your driveway.

"Hey guys!” You greeted happily, rushing to give them a hug.

Greg pulled out of the hug awkwardly. “Um, hey Y/N my m-mom sent us over here to uh, help.” He gestured to the bags, trying to avoid eye contact.

“No it’s alright. We’re almost done.” You bent down to grab a suitcase. Greg tried to look anywhere but your chest as Rowley blushed embarrassed. Rodrick just smirked.

“Allow me m’lady.” Rodrick said in a fake British accent, taking the bag from you. He made a face at Greg and Rowley over his shoulder before rushing to help your dad. “Here Mr. L/N let me get the door for you.” He held open the front door for your dad, following him inside with your bags.

You shook your head in disbelief. “Is Rodrick feeling well? He’s acting weird.” You laughed.

Greg shook his head, speechless.

“You're acting strange too. Is your family sick?”

“Um, now that you mention it I do feel a little light headed.” Greg muttered.

“Why don’t we go to the pool later? That way you can cool down.”

“I think that’s a great idea.” Rodrick called behind you, making you jump. “You two need to cool off. Right, Greg?” He chuckled to himself.

Greg and Rowley nodded open-mouthed in agreement.

You raised an eyebrow, confused at their behavior. “Okay, so it’s a plan then. I’ll see you guys in about an hour. I’m going to go get changed.”

The two continued to nod, almost in a trance. It was honestly starting to freak you out.

“Alright, bye guys.” You waved, heading back to the house

“See you soon shortstack.” Rodrick joked, ruffling your hair.

He gave Greg a shove before racing across the street. He and Rowley chased after him. Greg and Rodrick started a wrestling match on their front lawn. Greg pinned Rodrick to the ground, but let go when he saw him laughing.

“What’s so funny?” He questioned, laying down in the grass next to his brother.

"Boobs!” Rodrick choked out between giggles, wiping the tears from his eyes. He took a deep breath and started to laugh again when he saw Greg’s confused face.

Greg punched him in the arm and stood up. He followed Rowley into the house, shaking his head and muttering to himself as he went, leaving Rodrick alone to laugh hysterically in the yard.

"Boobs.” Rodrick whispered to himself one last time, before getting up and heading back inside to go punish his brother for hitting him.

Chapter Text

You knocked on the door to the Heffley house. Susan answered, looking flustered, with Manny hanging from her waist. "Hey Mrs. Heffley, is Greg home?" You asked.

"Manny not now, honey." She said to her son, detaching his arms from around her, and shooing him away. She fixed her shirt before answering you. "Hi Y/N, Greg is in his room." She smiled.

You thanked her and then ran upstairs to find Greg.

You kick the door to his room open, causing him and Rowley to jump. "BOOM! Suck it losers!" You shouted.

You were 16 and had just gotten your driver's license. You pulled it out of your pocket and started waving it in their faces. "Look what I got? I wonder what it could be? It looks like, no, no wait it is...It's a driver's license! Goes great with these." You took a set of car keys out of your other pocket and shook them near Greg's ear. "You hear that? That's the sound of freedom."

He pushed your hand away and made a face.

You leaned in closer to him. "Yeah, I got my license, Rowely's got his permit, and what does little Greggy have?" You baby-talked in his ear.

"Nothing." He mumbled.

"That's right, NOTHING!" You fell onto Greg's bed in a fit of giggles.

"Greg can't drive! Greg can't drive!" Rowley chanted, joining in on the teasing. He repeatedly poked Greg in the shoulder.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah you guys know that's only because I'm a few months younger than you." He grumbled, shoving Rowley's arm.

"Whatever you say Greggy." You laughed, bouncing on his bed with excitement.

He rolled his desk chair around to face you. "And will you knock it off! You're starting to sound like Rodrick!" He snapped.

"You say that like it's a bad thing." You heard someone chuckle.

You saw that it was Rodrick. He was leaning up against the doorframe wearing a baggy, dark blue, Penn State hoodie and flannel pajama bottoms. His shaggy hair was mussed in different directions around his forehead and slightly damp. It looked like he had just woken up.

Rowley sniffed the air and made a face

Rowley sniffed the air and made a face. "What's that smell?"

"I don't know, it almost smells like soap." Greg added in.

You jumped off the bed. "Oh my gosh! Did THE Rodrick Heffley take a shower?" You gasped in fake shock.

"Sure did. Want to smell shortie?" He came forward, holding out his armpit, preparing to shove it in your face. You pushed him away playfully.

While you still found Rodrick cute, the two of you had formed more of a sibling-like bond. He had become just like your older brother.

"What are you even doing home anyways?" You laughed. School didn't let out for another month.

"I took some night classes and finished the semester early." He smirked.

"You tried at school?" Rowley asked, confused.

"Can it Chunky Cheese!" He snapped, then turning to you with a goofy grin. "Besides Y/N, I wouldn't want to miss your party."

"You're coming to my Sweet 16?" Now it was your turn to be confused.

"Well I was planning on having band practice tonight, but Ben has the flu and Chris is still at school, so I guess it leaves me with nothing else to do." He shrugged.

"There's no way I'm going if you're going to be there." Greg argued.

You were slightly hurt. "C'mon Greg. You're my best friend! Besides," You leaned down to whisper in his ear. "Holly Hills will be there."

"Really?" He blushed excitedly. You knew he had a crush on her.

"Ha, she'll never go for a nerd like you!" Rodrick laughed. Then as an afterthought, quickly added awkwardly. "Will Heather be there?"

" 'Fraid not. But Isaac will." You smiled to yourself.

Greg rolled his eyes, looking disgusted.

Isaac had been one of your best friends before you had moved, and the two of you had grown up together. You were excited when his family had moved to Plainview as well sometime last year. Even though he lived on the nicer, richer, north side of town and you lived on plain, normal Surrey Street, you two still found the time to hang out with each other. While you wanted him and your new friends to get along, Greg and Rowley didn't seem to like him very much. If that wasn't complicated enough, you couldn't help but feel you might be falling for Isaac.

You were about to tell Greg to be nice to Isaac when you felt your phone vibrate in your pocket. Taking it out, you saw it was a text from your mom. It said:

Hi honey

Time to come home now

Love, Mom <3

"Sorry guys, that's my mom. I gotta go and get ready for the party. See you tonight." You waved goodbye, practically skipping down the stairs.

***

"He's just so cute and awkward, but in a nice way. And I like the way his eyes kind of sparkle in the lights of the gymnasium during P.E." You giggled to yourself as you listened to Holly gush about Greg while she curled your h/c hair. You found their crushes on each other so adorable.

She was so lost in thought, she accidentally touched the curling iron to the tip of your ear, causing you to cry out in pain.

"Oh my gosh Y/N! I'm so sorry." Holly shut off the curling iron and put it down on the vanity. She gently rubbed the burn on your ear. "Now you're going to have a red mark, and it's all my fault."

"It's fine Holly, really. Look we can cover it with my hair." You spread your hair out to hide the burn. Taking a second to admire yourself in the mirror you smiled. "You did a great job."

Holly looked relieved. "You really think so?"

You were surprised that the two of you had become friends. She wasn't stuck up and rich like you thought she would be. Honestly, she was probably one of the nicest people you knew, and you were glad to have a fellow girl around as a friend.

Sounds from downstairs pulled you out of your thoughts.

"Y/N the Heffleys are here." Your mom called up to your room.

"Greg's here!" Holly giggled happily.

You took one last look in the mirror before standing up and smoothing out your dress. You locked arms with Holly, giggling yourself. "Come along Miss Hills, your gentleman awaits."

The two of you headed downstairs to the party

***

It was close to 8 o'clock, and by now the party was in full swing. Your house was filled with your friends, neighbors, and various kids from school that your parents had insisted you invite. They felt you needed to be more social, however, you felt like you were socializing just fine watching Greg make a fool of himself.

He was leaning against the kitchen counter, staring dumbly across the room at Holly, who was in the middle of a conversation with Patty Farrell.

"Go talk to her." You nudged him with your shoulder.

"No way." He blushed, embarrassed.

"Just get her attention."

"How?"

"Hey Holly!" Rowley called across the room, waving and pointing to Greg. Greg slumped down, trying to hide and looking like he wanted to kill Rowley.

Holly giggled and smiled back, but Patty gave you all a death glare.

"She smiled at me." Greg gushed.

"Greg? Greg?" You called.

He ignored you, too caught up in his daydreams about Holly Hills.

"Hey Greg! You waved your hand in front of his face.

"AH-Wha?" He looked confused.

"Your tie is in the clam dip." You laughed.

He looked down and groaned. Grabbing some napkins he tried to clean it off. "Do you think she noticed?" He asked Rowley.

Rowley shrugged."Maybe she was too busy looking into your eyes."

"She was looking in my eyes!" Greg practically yelled.

You shushed him, then feeling a tap on your shoulder, turned to see Rodrick, holding a drink in his hand.

"Hey Y/N! Great party." He placed the drink down on the counter.

"Thanks."

Rodrick made a face, almost like he was deep in thought, before asking, "Can we go somewhere quiet?"

You nodded, leading him outside to the back deck.

***

Taking a deep breath of the cool night air, you took a seat on the porch swing. You patted the space next to you, gesturing for Rodrick to join you. Both of you sat in a calm silence, staring up at the sky.

"Pretty aren't they?" You asked, gesturing towards the stars.

He nodded in agreement.

"It's crazy to think that it takes so long for their light to get to us, that we are looking at what the sky was like years ago. All these stars could be dead now and you would never even know it."

"Woah..." Rodrick breathed in awe. "Where did you hear that?"

"I read it in a book once."

"You read books?" Rodrick scoffed.

"Yes, I do." You said, rolling your eyes. "Anyways, what was it you wanted to ask me?"

"Um, well-"

"Y/N there you are! I've been looking all over for you!" Rodrick was cut off by Isaac joining you on the deck. You stood up and Isaac pulled you into a hug.

"Who's this?" Rodrick asked defensively.

"Rodrick this is Isaac, my childhood friend. Isaac, this is Rodrick, Greg's brother."

"Nice to meet you, man." Isaac went to shake his hand, but Rodrick refused.

"S'up." He replied bored, rolling his eyes.

Isaac ignored him, turning back to you. "I can't believe you're 16! It seemed like just yesterday we were little kids playing pirates in my treehouse." The two of you laughed at the memory of it.

You heard Rodrick let out a sarcastic chuckle, mocking you from his seat on the porch swing.

"Dude, do you have a problem?" Isaac turned to him annoyed.

"No. No problem." Rodrick shook his head, holding up his hands, clearly failing at attempting to be truly sorry.

"Anyways," Isaac looked back at you. "I got you something." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box with a bow on top.

"You shouldn't have." You protest as he hands the box to you. Opening it you saw that it was a heart-shaped locket on a gold chain. "Oh it's beautiful." You whispered.

"Look at this." He opened up the locket, and inside was a picture of the two of you as children.

"I love it Isaac! Thank you!" You hugged him.

"Mwuh, mwuh, mwuh." Rodrick muttered to himself teasingly. He watched as Isaac put the necklace around your neck. "I wouldn't wear that if I were you Y/N. It might turn your skin green." He added in.

"This is 14-karat gold!" Issac spat.

"Well aren't you fancy. Where did you get the money, your mommy?"

"What's your deal man? Can't you see we're in the middle of something?!" Isaac shouted.

Rodrick stood up from his seat. He towered a good six inches over Isaac, at least. "Are you trying to fight me?" He laughed.

"Maybe I am." He shoved Rodrick slightly. Rodrick shoved him back. The two looked like they were ready to start a fistfight with each other. You quickly broke up their shoving match.

"Hey! Stop it you two! Stop!" You yelled, squeezing in between them, and pushing them apart. They both straightened out their clothes and glared at each other. "Can't we all just get along?" You pleaded.

"Whatever." Rodrick muttered, rolling his eyes. He faked a lunge at Isaac before storming back into the house, cursing to himself.

"Wow, that guy is such a... jerk." Isaac said, trying not to sound overly rude.

"That's just Rodrick." You shook your head, covering for him.

"Anyways," Isaac sighed. "There's something I wanted to ask you."

"Is that so?" You blushed.

"Indeed Miss L/N." He led you to sit on the porch swing. "So as you know, we've known each other since we were 3 years old, and it crushed me when you moved away."

"Me too. It was so weird without you." You admitted.

"What you may not know," He continued. "Is every since we were little kids I've had the biggest crush on you. I don't believe in true love and all that stuff but honestly, I think my family moving here, us meeting each other again, was fate "

You blushed slightly, looking at the ground.

Isaac took your hands in his, making you look at him. "What I'm trying to say is, Y/N will you be my girlfriend?"

You were shocked. Sure, you and Isaac had known each other forever, and he was really cute, but you had never expected this. You wanted to say yes, but you were unsure of yourself. So much had happened in those few years you and Isaac had been apart, you weren't sure if you could relate to each other anymore. And yet, what was three years anyways, you two were still the best of friends. You stared at your shoe as you dug your toe into the floorboards of the deck, deep in thought. Finally, you came to a decision.

"Isaac, I'd love to be your girlfriend." You smiled.

"Really! That's so great to hear." He gave you a tight hug.

You hugged back before pulling away. "C'mon, we've been out here long enough. Everyone is probably wondering what happened to us." You took his hand, locking your fingers with his, and headed back inside to rejoin the party.

***

Rodrick slammed the screen door behind him loudly, storming into the kitchen. He leaned against the counter, grabbing a handful of chips and shoving them into his mouth. He watched as Greg rubbed at his tie with a napkin. "This party sucks!" He called out to the air.

"What's the matter with you? Where's Y/N?" Greg questioned.

"None of your business." He snapped, then for good measure added, "Nerd!" He yanked at his tie, pulling it off angrily and throwing it at Greg. "Here take mine. I'm going home."

"What, why?"

"To practice the drums. I don't know why I thought it was a good idea to cancel band practice for a kid's birthday party!"

"But I thought you said-"

"Forget what I said!" Rodrick growled, he started to storm off, then remembering something, turned back around to face his brother. "Oh, and make sure the little lovebird gets these!" He pulled a small, gift-wrapped package out of his pocket and slammed it on the counter next to Greg. With that he marched away, pushing people out of his path as he went. Greg continued to stand there with a confused look on his face.

You and Isaac came back inside a while later and found Greg straightening Rodrick's tie around his neck. "Hi." he nodded.

"Hey Greg, any luck with Holly yet?" You giggled.

He shook his head, mumbling something inaudible. "Oh, by the way, Rodrick left. He um, wasn't feeling well." Greg lied.

"That's too bad. I hope he gets better." You looked upset.

"Ah, he told me to give you this." Greg handed you the gift.

Carefully, you tore off the wrapping paper. You smiled when you saw what it was. Rodrick had bought you CDs of all your favorite artists and bands, you were touched. "How'd he know?" You whispered. The two of you had never really discussed your tastes in music.

"How'd he afford them?" Greg asked.

"What do you mean?" Looking closer, you saw that every single CD case was signed. You felt your eyes tear up suddenly. They were just simple CDs, but music meant a lot to you, and you were surprised that Rodrick had even given you a gift at all.

"You okay, babe?" Isaac asked, rubbing your shoulders.

"Yeah, I'm fine." You reached up to touch his hand.

Greg gave the two of you an odd look but said nothing.

Just then Rowley ran up to the three of you. "Hey Y/N, your mom is looking for you. She says it's time to cut the cake now."

"Thank you. I'll be there in a minute."

He nodded before leaving with Greg, heading to the dining room where the rest of the guests were.

You and Isaac stood alone in the kitchen.

He hugged you from behind, as you stared at the CDs a moment longer, deep in thought.

"Hey c'mon let's go." Issac kissed your cheek.

You nodded silently, wiping away a stray tear. You gently put the music down on the counter, before taking Isaac's hand and letting him lead you towards the rest of the party.

Chapter Text

You were 17, and it was by far the hottest summer on record. You sat on the floor of the Heffley's garage, leaning against Rowley's shoulder. The two of you listened to Joshie through a pair of shared earbuds, as you finished the last of your Popsicle. You adjusted the earbud in your ear before going back to stroking Greg's hair, as he lay napping in your lap. To most people your position would have looked awkward, but the two were like brothers to you, so you didn't mind being close to them.

From the other side of the room a shirtless Rodrick flipped his drumsticks lazily in the air as he sat at his drum set. He had invited the three of you to watch him practice, but eventually the heat had gotten to him, and he had lost interest in smashing wildly on the drums.

Juice from your Popsicle dripped onto Greg's face, waking him up with a start.

"Sorry." You mumbled, wiping his face with the end of your faded band t-shirt. Finishing your Popsicle, you licked your now blue lips, and flipped over the stick to read the joke on the back. "Hey Greg, how did the telephone propose to his girlfriend?"

He groaned, laying his head back down in your lap.

"He gave her a ring." You and Rowley chuckled at the bad joke, causing Greg to groan even louder.

Flicking the stick away, you sighed. "It's too hot for this." You lightly shook Greg to get him to sit up, before pulling yourself off Rowley's shoulder. You handed him back the earbud.

"Let's go to the pool." Greg suggested.

"It'll be too crowded." You complained.

"Not if we go to the country club."

"Oh no! Remember what happened last time?" Rowley cried.

"C'mon that was like 5 years ago."

"No Greg." Rowley shook his head.

"Okay." He mumbled, lying across the floor. "This is so boring!"

"You know what's not boring?" Rodrick asked, joining the conversation. "Getting your brother a drink."

"No way!" Greg made a face.

"Do it, or I'll tell Mom and Dad you were the one who broke the camera."

"Ugh, fine." He sighed, giving in.

"I'm thirsty too." Rowley added.

"Well you can get your own drink." Greg protested. The two went into the house, leaving you and Rodrick alone.

"I was the one who broke the camera." Rodrick admitted, smiling.

You giggled, nodding. "So..." You muttered, feeling awkward being alone with Rodrick.

"So Y/N, do you have a crush on me?" He pointed his drumstick at you, raising an eyebrow.

"No way! I have a boyfriend." You rolled your eyes, playing with the locket around your neck.

"C'mon admit it." He coaxed.

"Okay, maybe when I was 13, but I was a kid then." You shrugged.

Rodrick smirked, pleased with himself, and pounded out some noise on his drums. "What do you think. Impressive?"

"Wow! You suck." You laughed.

"I do not!" He argued.

"Yeah, you do. You're such a poser!"

"I'm a poser?" He questioned, slightly hurt.

"Yes...No...Ugh, I just mean you try to come off all cool and punk rock when in reality you're just a giant dork. I bet you cried when MCR broke up."

"Hey," He snapped. "We all cried when My Chemical Romance broke up."

"Okay, okay." You giggled nodding in agreement.

"You think this is easy?"

"What?" you asked confused.

"The drums, shortie. You think they're easy?"

"Um, well I-" You stuttered.

"Come over here and play something." He held out his drumsticks to you.

You shook your head. "I don't think that's a good idea."

"C'mon Y/N . Prove you're not a poser like you say I am. " He waved the sticks in the air.

Sighing, you stood up and took them from Rodrick, taking his seat at the drum-set. You were in shock. Rodrick never let anyone touch his drums.

You had never actually even played any drums at all in your life. However, you figured you could at least attempt to create a good beat. With shaking hands, you tapped out a bunch of loud noises onto the drums, while you banged the bass out of time with your foot. The music sounded not at all better than what Rodrick had played a moment before. In fact, it was much worse.

Rodrick chuckled, taking the drumsticks back from you. "Harder than it looks?" He smirked.

You nodded, looking defeated. You stood for Rodrick to take back his seat.

"Look, you have to tap the kick drum like this." He pressed down lightly on the pedal. "And don't hold the sticks so tightly." He showed you how to play, banging out a simple beat before crashing the cymbal. He turned to face you. "Here let me teach you." Rodrick patted the space in his lap.

You blushed before awkwardly, sitting down.

Rodrick handed the sticks back to you. "Here. Hold them like this." He showed you the proper way to grip them. "Good now tap on the snare. I got the pedals."

You banged out another string of offbeat notes.

"No, no, no! Like this." He took your hands again, guiding them to the tempo. He rested his chin on the top of your head, getting a closer view of your hands.

It was weird, but you felt oddly comforted by Rodrick. The feel of his shirtless chest pressed up against your back. His arms wrapped around your body, as his hands held yours, guiding you to the right notes. The sound of his voice close to your ears, as he gave out instructions. The very fact that he was being unusually nice to you instead of his normal jerky self. You thought you had moved on from your childish crush, but you still found yourself blushing at the situation.

Unfortunately, your moment of peace was interrupted.

"Hey Rodrick the phone-OH MY GOD!" Greg yelled, dropping the phone and cans of soda to the ground.

"GET OFF OF ME YOU SHRIMP!" Rodrick shouted, pushing you to the floor as he tried to pretend like nothing had happened. "Uh-I don't know what, um she.. uh I..." Rodrick stuttered.

Greg gave you both a confused look as he handed the phone to Rodrick. "It's for you. It's Lindsay."

Rodrick took the phone from him. "Hey babe." He face broke out into a wide smile as he answered before giving Greg a disgusted look, clearly returning to his normal demeanor.

"Who's Lindsay?" You asked as you pulled yourself up off of the ground.

"Rodrick's girlfriend." Greg rolled his eyes.

"Oh..."

"Hey Y/N. I got you a soda." Rowley smiled as he entered the room. He gave you the can.

"Thank you." You said to him before adding. "I um, think I better go now guys."

"So soon?" Greg asked.

"Yeah, I got a date with Isaac tonight I need to get ready for, and my mom says if I don't clean up my room before she gets home I'm grounded, so I'm going to go. Bye."

"Bye." Greg and Rowley waved to you.

"Hold on a sec Linds." Rodrick took the phone away from his ear. He bent down to help you pull open the garage door.

"See you around shortstack." He winked at you.

You nodded back, heading out the open door.

"What was that all out about?" Rowley whispered to Greg.

"I have no idea." Greg admitted, shaking his head as he gave his brother a skeptical look.

"No I wasn't talking to you." Rodrick said into the phone. He picked at his ear, rubbing the wax on Greg's face as he walked by.

Greg gave him a disgusted look, wiping his face.

Rodrick mimicked his expression as he continued to talk on the phone with his girlfriend, walking back into the house, and up to his room.

"Rodrick is the worst!" Greg huffed. "I just wish I knew what it was girls see in him."

Rowley nodded in agreement, as the two went inside to play video games.