Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Everybody either dreams or dreads the idea of going to college. For the former, it can set you up for a fantastic career with a well-paying job, good friends and a secure future. But for the latter, it can be lonely, extortionately expensive and, quite simply, pointless. Exer felt both ways about it.

He felt that in order to secure the future he wanted, this was a crucial and somewhat mandatory step towards that. But then again, there's the bill, the thought of having endless classes and being somewhat alone. He knew that he would not be alone, literally, due to the fact he was a *very* likable person in general and made friends wherever he went, but being away from his dad? He knew it sounded stupid, but he'd never really thought of moving anywhere without his dad; it was like he was his other half. And now he was moving - and to London!?

The thought was so daunting, but he shook it from his mind as he finished packing his final bag, combed his hair to perfection and walked - with fake confidence - downstairs.

"Here he is!", Harry said, getting up out of his seat and staring proudly at his soon-to-be-at-college son. Exer smiled and looked at his feet, with his dad's sentimentality making the decision even harder than it already was.

"Hey dad", Exer replied, a bit more dreary than he'd hoped to, but he just couldn't seem to lighten up.

Harry gave Exer a knowing look. "Exer" he started, "are you sure you want to do this? I mean, I'm seeing how much distraught it's causing you". He looked at his son with that signature parenting expression of worriedness.

"Yeah", Exer started, "yeah, I'm sure. Besides once I'm there, it won't be that hard, will it?" he asks rhetorically, chuckling nervously. But he feared that it would be.

Exer looked into his dad's eyes, and noticed the slight glint of newly-formed tears beginning to appear. "Dad?" he asked slowly, "are you oka-?". But before he could finish, he was thrown into a crumpling hug and a wave of sentimentality. "Dad?" he asked again.

Harry released his son from his grasp after a couple more seconds of silence, and then took him by the shoulder. "Son", he started, his voice breaking "I'm so proud of you".

Even though this was the line that Exer heard most from his dad, it still touched him deeply to hear it be spoken with such meaning.

"I know", Exer choked out, fighting back tears "I know". He paused and inhaled sharply before adding "I'll miss you dad", smiling bitterly through the aching pain that shot through his body like a sudden surge of sedatives.

"Oh, stop", Harry said, chuckling. "We shouldn't be crying, not over this anyway. This is gonna be your future!"

Exer let out a small, somewhat forced laugh. "Yeah", he began, "I guess you're right". The two hugged a final time, staying in position for what felt like an eternity, until Harry finally pulled away. "Now then", he began, "your flight leaves in 2 hours. You ready to get going?" he asked.

Exer nodded woefully. "Yeah, I guess...". Despite the fact that he knew his dad would always be thinking about him (and no doubt would call him at every opportunity possible), this was still *so hard*, and it would never get any easier.

"Okay", Harry began, "you take your carry-on, I'll take the suitcase". He hoisted the (somewhat oversized) suitcase up with a grunt and made his way out the front door and towards the car. Exer followed suit, attempting to distract himself, but to no avail. There was only one thing on his mind, and there was nothing he could do about it. He shoved his carry-on into the back seat and turned around to look at the house - his childhood home - for what would be the last time for a while.

"Right", Harry exhaled, "you ready to get going?". Exer simply nodded, unable to get words past the painful knot in his stomach. He got in the front seat, slammed the door closed and stared again at the house, waiting for his dad to get in. "Right", Harry paused, "I feel like I'm saying that a lot, aren't I?" he said with a hearty chuckle before starting up the engine and finally...finally...they were on their way to the airport.

Exer watched as scenery shot past faster than the last 10 years of his life, reminiscing over all the memories that he still held so dearly. Suddenly it all felt too much - the pain, the sadness, the memories, the sentimentality - and when it finally sank in that he was about to fly to London, his breathing became unsteady and uneven, becoming caught in his throat. And before long the sparks were appearing...oh shit.

He tried steadying his breath, inhaling and exhaling deeply. It was obviously quite noticeable, because within seconds Harry was onto it. "Exer?", he asked, eyes still on the road. "Exer", he suddenly said firmly, turning the question into a statement, "Exer breathe. Even breathes, like this". Harry breathed along with him, inhaling and exhaling, steadying Exer's breathing patterns until finally he calmed down and he sighed in relief. "There", said Harry, "feeling better?".

"Yeah, thanks", replied Exer, smiling to himself. The rest of the journey was silent, save for the low humming of the engine or the occasional passer-by. To be honest, it was quite awkward, and you wouldn't even be able to cut the tension with a knife; you'd need at least a chainsaw.

Finally, the car pulled up to the airport, which was surprisingly busy. Cars parking and leaving left and right, people waving goodbyes and waving greetings, tears of joy and tears of solemnity. Overall it was a very strange atmosphere.

Harry hoisted Exer's suitcase out of the trunk, handing it to him, along with his carry-on. "Now, remember Exer, you're gate-"

"Gate 19, British Airways Flight 203, row 15, I know. You've told me like a milion times", he said sarcastically, rolling his eyes and chuckling. "Hey", Harry narrowed his eyes, "don't you start with me, mister. I know you're 18 and all that, but that is no way to speak to your old man", he said playfully.

Both father and son giggled childishly, until Exer finally spoke. "I'm going to miss this", he said quietly, "I'm going to miss you". He looked into his dad's sad, deep brown eyes and could read his emotions immediately.

"Me too, son" he said shakily, "me too". Father and son shared one last, glorious embrace, until finally, Exer had to make his final farewells and depart for a new chapter in his story. It's always extremely difficult for a parent to see their child go and realise that they're no longer that small, tiny baby that they first came into this world as. Harry watched as his own son, now a fully-grown, handsome, responsible 18-year-old walked towards the main building of the airport, waving back at him. This was his final goodbye for a long time, and it was one of the most painful things he had to in his entire life.

Exer walked into the airport - a huge expanse of marble floor, shops, seating areas and all a-bustle with people - and immediately went to check in. He walked up to the check in counter, which was run by a reasonably attractive girl, maybe a bit younger than Exer. They both smiled at each other. "Hey there!", she said, blushing at the young man's extremely good looks. Exer was used to it by now. As they say, not many know the burden of beauty, but unfortunately, Exer was one of those that did. "Oh, ah, hi!", he said awkwardly, passing her his ticket, which she checked.

"London, eh?", she asked. Exer scratched the base of his neck nervously, "yeah, I'm attending the Imperial College there". Her eyes widened in awe, and her jaw almost dropped to the floor. "Really!?", she asked excitedly, "wow you must be the real deal!". Exer blushed heavily at the compliment. "Oh, why thank you! But not really. I'm not that talented, at least not as talented as some of the people I know who go there", he chuckled. "Oh I'm sure you're just as talented as you are handsome", she said flirtatiously.

Exer blushed even deeper, trying to ignore the comment. "Well", she checked the ticket one more time, "I hope you have fun in London. And I'm sure you'll go places", she said, smiling warmly. Exer thanked her and wandered over to the waiting lounge outside Gate 19. Was that stranger really that nice to me?, he thought to himself, and was she flirting with me?. The answer to the second question was clear, but Exer shook it from his mind. He had more important things to worry about, as well as a very long 1 hour 45 minute wait until his flight.

He settled in to an empty seat at the window, staring out onto the runway, now empty. He was worried - no, anxious - he was anxious about so many things. One, he had never been a good flyer, two, how would he make friends at the Imperial College? Would he be the only American? Would they judge him? What would happen if his magic got out of control? His head was swirling with what ifs? and what woulds?, and after a while it was just too overwhelming.

He swiftly took out his walkman, rewound the tape and started it from the beginning. Eventually he was completely immersed in the music, unaware of anything around him or any previous thoughts. He was free with music. It spoke to him in ways words couldn't describe (ironic, isn't it), and music was always his go-to when he needed comforting or reassurance; and this was definitely the time for it. He stared out the window again, onto the deserted runway, and felt the music take him over.

He was usually an avid punk or pop listener, but a few weeks ago he discovered an old tape of Debussy piano music in his dad's study. He'd never heard of Debussy before, but was absolutely enchanted when he listened to it. From the innovative chromatic sequences, to the flowing melodies and intricate bass-lines and the emotions and scenes that they provoked in his head. So he looked him up in a music dictionary at school, and discovered he was a French 20th-century composer, renowned for his revolutionary and new ways of composing. Of course, Exer's heart would always belong to Bowie, but when he needed some deep relaxation or thinking time, Debussy was his go-to.

After the tape finished, he rewound it and listened to the whole thing from the beginning. It was all so beautiful and eventually his eyelids became heavier, with darkness beginning to become victorious. He was just about asleep when...

"Passengers of British Airways Flight 203 non-stop to London, please make your way to Gate 19 for departure". Exer's heart skipped a beat as he heard the voice over the loudspeaker. He quickly turned off his walkman, grasped his carry-on (he'd dropped off his suitcase to be put in the plane's storage) and lined up to have his ticket checked. As he walked up to the desk he recognised the girl behind it as the same one who had serviced him before. "Oh, hi again!", she chirped, obviously pleased to see him. "Hey!", he replied with the same energy, "I didn't know you were a flight attendant as well?". She scoffed, rolling her eyes, "I'm not, usually, but the *actual* flight attendant just called in sick and so I was a last resort. Anyway, I never actually got your name?", she inquired hopefully.

"Oh, um, yeah, it's Exer. Exer Campbell". Her eyes widened with curiosity as he said this. "Exer", she repeated to herself quietly, "what a unique name!". Exer blushed AGAIN. This girl can't seem to get enough of complimenting me, Exer thought to himself. "Anyway, I'm Felicity. Felicity Johnson". Exer's mouth curled into a smile.

"Felicity", he repeated quietly (almost mocking her), "I've actually always really liked that name. Very classy". Now it was her to blush, and blush she did. But their moment was interrupted by a gagging noise behind him.

"Gross", a voice said behind Exer. He spun around to find a boy, around his age, with glistening blonde hair, deep blue eyes, a sleek physique and a handsome complexion. Wow, Exer thought, he's gorgeous. His eyes widened has he stared at this attractive young man, who stared with a raised eyebrow back at him. But as the boy looked back at Exer, his expression softened and eventually it turned into an awkward blush.

The boy stared at Exer. Wow, he thought, he's gorgeous. Both boys blushed and looked away immediately. "So", the boy began, "are you gonna hurry up or are we all expected to miss our flight because of some flirting", he chuckled nervously. Exer stared at him some more, until he finally snapped out of it. "O-oh, yeah, um, sorry", Exer began nervously, thanking Felicity and walking onto the plane. He was still blushing - what, why am I still blushing!? - he thought to himself. Sure that guy was cute but there was no need to start practically drooling over him. He breathed heavily, shoved his carry-on in the overhead compartment, sat down and started playing his walkman again.

Then as soon as he was comfortable, he heard a voice from next to him. "Hey, is this seat taken? Oh-". Exer stared up at the blonde-haired boy who stopped in his tracks when Exer turned around. What, Exer thought, NO!! THIS CAN'T BE HIS SEAT!!. The boy chuckled nervously, scratching his forearm, waiting for Exer's reply. It felt like it would never come.

"Oh, ah, no it's not taken", Exer finally managed to answer. "Good", started the boy, "because it's the one I booked". He giggled, a cute, childish giggle that sent shivers down Exer's spine. The boy put his carry-on carefully into the overhead compartment above them, then sat down. "Oh", the boy began, "I don't think we've introduced ourselves. I'm David. David Miller", he said with a beaming smile. Exer could hardly take his eyes off David's deep blue ones. He felt as if they bore into him, melting his heart. "Oh, oh, hi!", Exer started, becoming overly flustered and starting to blush a deep shade of crimson, "I'm Exer. Exer Campbell". David nodded his head in acknowledgement, "well it's nice to meet you Exer". Exer smiled. "Same back to you".

As they shuffled around in their seats, their hands gently brushed together, which sent both of them into a deep fit of blushing. This is going to be a long flight, thought Exer. And he was right.

Chapter Text

AN: For anyone who's interested, I created a Spotify playlist for Exer's cassette tape for atmospheric background music whilst reading - Exer's Cassette Tape

Exer sat silently, listening to his walkman, attempting to ignore David, who was reading quietly. He's so beautiful, Exer thought to himself, looking (or staring, rather) at David's perfect blonde hair, which bobbed gently as the plane began to move. "Please bring your attention to the flight attendants, who will go over the basics of emergency exits, precautions and what the procedure will look like in case of an emergency". Exer's body temperature began to rise as he listened to the captain on the loudspeaker - he hated talking about emergencies. His palms began sweating and his breath became hitched. 

No, he thought to himself, not here. You can't do it here, Exer. He steadied his breathing, remembering his dad's words and directions. Slowly a weight was lifted off his shoulders as his oxygen intake became more even. But obviously he wasn't as quiet as he thought he was, because suddenly he heard a voice. "Hey", David began slowly, "are you okay?". Exer looked over at David, and into his deep blue eyes, eyes that bore once again into his soul. Exer chuckled nervously, "oh yeah, I'm fine. I've just...never been the best flyer, that's all". He was acting more awkward and flustered than was needed, and David didn't make that any better.

"Oh", David giggled, the same giggle that sent chills down Exer's spine. "Yeah, I get that. Well, if you ever need a hand to hold on to, I'm here", he said jokingly, winking playfully. Not. Helpful. David, Exer thought. "HAHAHAHA", Exer suddenly laughed awkwardly, irrationally loud. David looked at Exer with a curious but amused expression, obviously wondering why he was so...embarrassed. Whilst this whole episode was happening, the plane had made its way to the beginning of the runway, and began speeding up. Exer jolted backwards - take-off was his least favourite part of any flight. He felt himself struggling to breathe again, when suddenly he felt someone grab his hand. The grasp was firm, comforting, sending a warm tingling sensation down his entire body.

"Don't worry", David said comfortingly, "you'll be fine". Exer looked down at his hand, eyes wide, seeing David grasp it firmly and reassuringly. That was it. He felt his cheeks flush a deep red, as a burning heat spread across his forehead. David didn't let go, he didn't even loosen his grip, until they were flying. "T-thanks", Exer finally managed, feeling his face relieve of the blush after David's grasp loosened and pulled away gently. "No problem! It's smooth sailing from here", David replied, giving Exer a full and caring smile. Exer returned it. Wow, he really does care, Exer thought to himself.

"So, why don't I hear some more about you?", David asked curiously. Exer was taken aback by David's boldness and confidence. He'd never be able to just start a normal conversation with something he'd only just met. "Oh, um, well I'm from the US", he began awkwardly. David's face fell with Exer stating the obvious. "Yes, I think I got that", David said cheekily, "what else? Hobbies? Preferences?". Exer's eyes widened at the last statement. "P-preferences?", he asked, tilting his head. David suddenly realised how bad that sounded.

"Oh, o-oh no, I didn't mean it like that", he chuckled. He was obviously trying to lighten the mood, but it was too late. Awkwardness had already set in, covering them like a blanket. "Well, I play the guitar?", Exer offered after a while. David's expression lightened at this. "Really? That's so cool!". Exer smiled as he saw his new friend - friend? - acquaintance turn into a childish schoolboy just at the mention of him playing the guitar. "How long have you played for?", David asked, obviously trying to hold back the immense amount of questions that were building up in his brain. "Maybe about three years?", Exer replied, trying to think when he first started.

"That's amazing!", said David. Exer laughed, this time genuinely, as he watched David go absolutely crazy. Both boys suddenly looked up and locked gazes, staring into each other's eyes. David gazed into Exer's eyes; a warm, comforting amber with a yellowish tinge that then turned to a light green - wait, green!? "A-are your eyes okay?", David asked, suddenly looking concerned. Exer seemed confused at David's sudden enquiry, but then the sparks started to appear and he knew what was happening. But then he noticed something strange.

The sparks weren't the usual green, they were a mix of deep reds, vibrant oranges and pleasant pinks. And it didn't make him feel stressed or uncomfortable - in fact, it was quite the opposite. It felt pleasant, soothing, and then it was like a spark had entered his body and touched his heart. He inhaled sharply, as a sensation shot up his spine. The same sensation that he felt when David held his hand. It was all so confusing. Why was this happening, how was this happening? Exer suddenly zoned out, not taking notice of anything around him.

"Hello, helloooo, Earth to Exer?", David said, waving his hand in front of Exer's face. He snapped out of his reverie and shook his head. "Oh, yeah, sorry", he said chuckling awkwardly (is he never going to be not awkward?). David shrugged nonchalantly, deciding that trying to get Exer to talk was a bit of a lost cause, so he went back to reading. Exer frowned, suddenly feeling self-conscious. Am I really that boring?, he asked himself. And from David's actions, the answer to that question was clear. Exer sighed deeply and went back to listening to his walkman and looking out the window - which was a grave mistake.

He suddenly felt nauseous due to the height they were at, and looked away, quickly shutting the window blind. He stared silently at the back of the chair in front of him, listening to the entire cassette (roughly 1 hour), until he turned it off and looked next to him to find David asleep with the book on his chest. His chest moved slowly up and down, gently inhaling and exhaling in his sweet slumber. He suddenly turned over in his seat, nestling comfortably in Exer's direction. Exer did the same, snuggling up against his seat and facing David, watching him rest peacefully. A ray of evening sun streamed in through the window in the seat behind him and focused on David's hair.

It shone, glinted, shimmered in the light, like a halo surrounding his head. Exer smiled. The light cast shadows across David's face, bringing out his handsome features, and with the comforting warmth of the sun, David smiled in his sleep. God, Exer just wanted to hug him, or run his fingers through his perfect blonde locks. It was official - he was in love. Then, just as pleasant thoughts began to sweep through Exer's mind, David started talking. "I'll be up in a minute, mum..." he began, sighing as he reached out for Exer, grabbing him sub-consciously and bringing him into a tight and safe embrace. Exer's eyes widened, his breath stopped and he froze as he felt David running his fingers through his hair, but eventually he melted into it. This may have been a sub-conscious act, but Exer felt as if he was in Heaven. He closed his eyes and eventually fell asleep in David's arms.

It wasn't hard to fall asleep, as a feeling of safety and protection washed over him in David's warm embrace. He could stay like this forever. And as his eyelids became heavier, the sunlight was blocked from his vision and he fell into a deep reverie, hoping never to wake up again.

Chapter Text

It wasn't hard for him to fall asleep, as a feeling of safety and protection washed over him in David's warm embrace. He could stay like this forever. And as his eyelids became heavier, the sunlight was blocked from his vision and he fell into a deep reverie, hoping never to wake up again.

Exer snuggled up close to David's warm body, as he pleasantly rested and forgot about all the world's problems. But his contentment was short-lived. 

"Umm, hey", said a soft voice, "Exer, isn't it?". Exer didn't hear anything. "Exer? Can you...ugh", said the voice again, this time accompanied with some light poking. "Exer!", the voice suddenly raised in volume and Exer immediately was jolted out of his sleep. "Huh?", he groaned as he looked around him. His eyes widened as he saw David looking down at him - wait, down? - and it was at that moment that he realised...he was still snuggled up against him.

He quickly jerked up, blushing profusely as he remembered what he did. "Oh my god, oh I'm so sorry David", he started apologising endlessly. "For what?", David inquired, tilting his head. "F-for, like, sleeping on you!", Exer answered, confused at David's inability to realise what seemed obvious. "Oh, don't worry about that", David chuckled, "it was obviously just an accident, right?". There was a long, concerning pause. "Right?". Exer's head shot up and he nodded awkwardly, "Oh yeah, of course!". He obviously wasn't going to say "No, I'm hopelessly in love with you so I literally hugged you whilst I slept", unless he wanted to lose a newly-made friend - friend? Why do I keep calling him that! - acquaintance.

David checked his watch, looking pleasantly surprised. "Oh, we've only got about 40 minutes left till landing!", he said smiling. Exer sighed, still feeling guilty and embarrassed about the previous episode. "Look, David, I am really sorry", he said, looking solemnly into David's deep blue eyes - again with the eyes!. David returned Exer's longing gaze. "Oh nonsense, Exer! It's nothing to worry about. It was obviously just an accident, but if it was intentional then I'm flattered that you thought I was so irresistible!", he said, giggling. Exer's expression softened, as did his heart when he heard David's giggle again.

Exer was truly smitten. But with a guy? he thought to himself, how can I be in love with a guy. That's just wrong...isn't it? Exer had always felt a slight attraction, no not even that intense of a term, an admiration for people of the same sex, but to be in love with one? It seemed unthinkable. Of course he'd heard of it before, guys liking guys, but usually everyone was against them or looking to oppress them. He'd read about riots in newspapers, the news and other headlines. Always violent. Why are gay people always violent? he used to ask himself, a thought he commonly conjured up until he found out it was people like police officers and enforcers that started all the riots and uprisings. He'd always been taught that it was bad, or wrong, or unnatural...but it was still love, wasn't it? And to him, love is love.

"Attention passengers, please fasten your seatbelts for landing". The overhead speakers once again jerked Exer from his thoughts, and soon he felt the plane tilting forward, getting ready for landing. His breathing became faster again. And once again, a hand made its way slowly to Exer's, intertwining their fingers. "It's gonna be fine", David reassured him, "we'll be on the ground soon enough". Ironically, this didn't help Exer's breathing, in fact it made it worse. His face began heating up and he could feel the constant beating of his heart in his chest.

He closed his eyes and waited for the jolt as the plane's wheels skimmed across the runway, signaling its arrival on solid ground. But the plane must've been coming in too quickly, as the usually smooth landing turned into a sharp and aggressive drop. David's grasp tightened around Exer's hand as the sudden movement jolted everyone in their seats, but it was over soon and suddenly an enormous wave of relief washed over Exer's body as he felt safe once again. "You okay?", David asked genuinely. Exer nodded slightly, still relatively confused that someone he'd only just met was so...friendly and genuine? It was truly baffling. 

As the plane made its way slowly to the gate, David and Exer positioned themselves in order to retrieve their luggage before they were trampled to death by eager tourists and businessmen. The vehicle came to a stand-still, and David swiftly stood up and grabbed both of their bags, handing Exer's to him. "Thanks", Exer replied shyly - shyly? I'm usually really confident...why am I so shy around this guy? - David smiled back at him, beaming brightly. Exer stood up, but caught his foot underneath the seat, causing him to fall. David quickly grabbed Exer's hand, pulling him back up onto his feet. It's getting really cliche now, Exer thought. He chuckled awkwardly and nodded his thanks, as they both proceeded to exit the plain without sustaining any injuries. 

They both walked out of the gate door, and into the hustle and bustle of Heathrow. "Well", David started, "my sister will be waiting for me in Carpark F". Exer nodded quietly. "Yeah, I'll just wait here till my bus arrives", he said, forcing a smile. "Well, it was nice to meet you, Exer!", David said, once again beaming from ear to ear. "It was nice to meet you too, David. I-i hope to see you around again sometime". The blonde-haired boy paused for a minute. "Yeah, me too". They both nodded at each other, and soon David was lost in the sea of picture-taking tourists that surrounded them. Here I am, Exer thought, looking reflectively out into the crowd, along once again.

Chapter Text

Exer stood quietly, amid the chaos and noise of bustling tourists and travellers, seemingly oblivious to the constant pushes and nudges. He felt stupid. He'd only met this man a couple of hours ago, and yet he couldn't rid the thought of him from his mind. Great, so now he was alone, in a foreign country, in one of the busiest airports in the world, all whilst having a realisation crisis. Life couldn't get any worse.

He snapped out of his thoughts, and quickly returned to reality. He hoisted his carry-on over shoulder, and was about to head off when he was suddenly pushed to the ground. He lay on the ground, leaning on his hand. "W-what the fuck!?", he said angrily, looking up to the person who was standing next to him, and his expression dropped. He stared at the dreadfully familiar face. "J-jackson?!". Jackson immediately stumbled over his words. "O-oh god, I'm so sorry mister I didn't mean!-Exer?".

"What are you doing here?", Exer asked rudely and rather sharply. Jackson rolled his eyes. "So I'm not allowed my own life now, am I?". Exer huffed annoyingly, pushing himself off of the ground. Jackson folded his arms sassily, and looked Exer straight in the eyes. "And for your information, I'm actually going to college here". Exer's face twisted into an expression of anticipation. "Please don't tell me you're going to the-"

"Imperial College?", Jackson offered. Exer closed his eyes tightly, and looked up to the ceiling. "Please Lord, give me strength", he muttered sarcastically. Jackson stared at him. "W-wait, so you're going there as well?", he asked angrily. Exer nodded begrudgingly. Jackson sighed and ran his fingers through his spiked hair. God, does he ever do anything else with his hair? Exer thought, although he couldn't say much.

"Why are you staring at my hair?", Jackson asked interrogatively, narrowing his eyes. Exer didn't even hesitate. "Because you look stupid, to be honest. You never do anything else with it", he said, chuckling amusingly. Jackson took far too much offense to that comment. "Well, you can talk! You look like a goddamn squirrel!", he said loudly. Exer gasped and covered his hair protectively. Great, now they were arguing over each other's hair styles. How mature.

"I don't have time for this", Exer said firmly, "I've gotta get my bags then I need to take the 11:25 bus to the college". Jackson chuckled. "Pff, can't even afford a taxi. Imagine taking public transport?". Exer rolled his eyes. "I've no need for taxis, buses do just fine. Besides, since when could you afford taxis? You do realise they're more expensive over here?". Jackson shook his head in disappointment. "Since I had this!", he reached into his back pocket, but as he fumbled around in it, his face dropped.

"Shit", he mumbled. Exer smirked. "Mhm, what were you saying?". Jackson gave up looking. "I-i swear I had $100 in here!", he exclaimed as he let his arms fall nonchalantly to his sides. "Guess you'll be taking the bus then", Exer said, pausing before stating "with me!". Jackson huffed and shoved his hands into his pockets. "Shut up. Let's just go get our bags".

They both expertly weaved their way through the constantly growing crowd, with the occasional frustrated grunt from Jackson and the polite "sorrys" and "excuse mes" from Exer. They managed to make their way to the luggage pick-up conveyor belt, and as they stood there in awkward silence, Jackson thought they might as well attempt to indulge in small talk. "So", Jackson began, "how was your flight?". Exer paused for a second. "Not that bad, David was fun to talk to". 

Jackson looked at Exer for a second, before answering. "Who's David?". Exer couldn't help himself from blushing at the mention of his name. "O-oh, nobody, just a guy I met at the airport". Jackson narrowed his eyes. "You're blushing", he stated, a small smirk creeping up his face. Exer's eyes widened and he ran his fingers through his hair calmly, trying to regain stability. "Ah, no I'm not. I-it's just...", he desperately needed a cover-up story, "there was this really cute girl as well who seemed like she liked me". Nice save Exer.

Jackson nodded suspiciously. He eyed his bags as they came around, and hoisted them expertly onto the ground. Exer still waited patiently, but not soon after he felt someone walk behind him and a weight was put onto his bag for a split second. He spun around, but there was nobody there. He flipped his bag around to the front of his chest and he saw a small slip of folded paper wedged in between a crease. He pulled it out and unfolded it.

There was a phone number, and underneath it read: I hope you slept well. Exer's heart rate quickened, and he laughed out loud. He stuffed the letter into his pocket and spun around to see Jackson staring at him in confusion. "What was that about?", he asked. Exer smiled broadly. "Nothing. Is that my bag?", he asked as he saw a suitcase sitting next to Jackson. "Yeah, you weren't looking so I just got it for you". Exer smiled warmly. "Thanks".

Suddenly there was a spring in Exer's step, and he practically skipped in front of Jackson on their way to the bus. Although, Exer wasn't the most subtle of people, and Jackson started becoming more suspicious, so he decided to get more information. "So, who actually is this David person? What does he look like?". Exer was so giddy that he answered. "Well, he has blonde curly hair, blue eyes and he was wearing-".

"A Hawaiian shirt and red converses?", Jackson offered. Exer's smile dropped. "H-how did you know that?", he asked nervously. Jackson simply pointed to the left. "Is that him over there?", he asked. Exer looked in the direction that Jackson was pointing, and his eyes widened. "Shit", he mumbled. David was standing with his bag in a queue to get into a bus depot, listening to his walkman and tapping his foot to the beat.

Exer put his head down and walked quickly away. "Jackson, hurry up, we're gonna miss the bus". Jackson jogged up to his side. "That was him, wasn't it!". Exer shook his head, trying to lose the growing blush in his cheeks and the pathetic cracking in his voice. "Are you in love with him or something?", Jackson joked, giggling childishly. Exer snapped back at him defensively. "No, why the hell would I be in love with a guy!?". Jackson was taken aback with Exer's anger, and so immediately shut up.

Exer's good mood returned after they reached the bus depot, and they managed to get the front seat on the second level. "I've never been on one of these double-decker things before", Exer said happily. Jackson simply mumbled in return. Exer understood that things between them were...difficult. They'd both experienced probably more trauma and bombshells than a normal person would in their entire life. 

Jackson decided that the silence needed to be broken. "Look, I think we should talk about the diary-". Exer snapped his hand up. "No. I'm not talking about that. I came here to forget about all that, and have a fresh start". Jackson sighed. "Exer, things will never be the same. You'll never forget about what happened. Just accept it". Exer understood that. What they'd been through together was enough to affect someone's mental health severely. 

Jackson huffed and folded his arms, looking moodily out of the window. "What happened to you Jackson?", Exer began. Jackson didn't flinch. "You, Exer. You happened. You ruined my life, and turned practically everybody against me. You made me like this". Exer didn't answer. He knew that Jackson was right. He still felt horrible, and even after multiple attempts at making this right, it never worked. They could've been friends. But Exer's jealousy was overpowering. And the only soul you're poisoning with jealousy is your own.

"I think we should talk it through", Jackson said. Exer shook his head. "No, we've tried that far too many times, and it never seems to work. Why can't you just accept that I ruined any chance of peace between us?". Jackson wasn't giving up. "B-but-", he began, but Exer cut him off loudly. "No! There's no more buts or maybes. We've tried it so many times and I get tired of it. I just want to forget about it. Forget about us". He sighed in exhaustion and looked out the window. "No more talking it through".

Chapter Text

The bus ride to the campus was painful. Slow, silent and awkward, with Jackson attempting in vain to start conversation. Exer leaned against the window sill, watching the bustling crowds and traffic move past. He wasn't happy. He'd hoped coming here would act as an escape from his troubles back him, but his troubles seemed to have followed him. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the bus squeaked and came to a halt.

"Thank God", Exer muttered under his breath. He was ready to get out of there as fast as he could. He hoisted his bag over his shoulder, and shuffled down the aisle till he reached the staircase. "Oh, so you're not gonna wait for me?" Jackson muttered sharply. 

"Why the hell would I wait for you?", Exer replied, equally irritated, "I came here to get away from you Jackson, I can't wait till you disappear". Jackson smiled and chuckled, "you do realise that I'm literally going to the same college as you?". Exer crossed his arms and stared him down, "Mhm, and I'm going to avoid you like the plague". He spun around and made his way down to the bottom floor.

Jackson sighed and rolled his eyes, picking up his stuff and following closely behind him. They emerged from the doors with a swarm of other eager and nervous to-be college students, and they stood in awe of what they saw. A huge, beautifully designed tower loomed above the campus, which in itself was huge. Glass-windowed buildings surrounded the perimeter, designed like office buildings, which sparkled in the midday sun. In the centre was a huge plaza, with a beautifully kept lawn.

"Wow...", Exer mumbled. It was stunning, but his admiring was interrupted when the headmaster suddenly appeared in order to inform them about what would happen.

"Welcome, one and all", he began in a stylishly consistent English accent, "to the Imperial College London. Now, your luggage will be transported to your assigned dorm rooms by our staff, and if you'll be so kind as to follow me, I'll get your rooms sorted out". He turned around, and like sheep following a shepherd, everyone led behind him. It was rather intimidating, being on such a large campus with some of the smartest people in Europe - hell, even in the world. Exer was looking forward to this.

==

After a long and extremely thorough tour of the grounds, the headmaster (his name was Mr. Fortescue, they'd learnt) brought them to the main office where they pondered and chattered, waiting for their room number and key. Jackson had been completely silent the whole time. Exer even considered talking to him, but suddenly his name was called.

"Exer Campbell?", the lady at the front desk said. Exer's head shot up, "y-yes!". He stood up and walked over to the desk, where he was given his room number and key. He was assigned Room 364.

He turned around to leave, and as he left he saw a group of girls giggling and blushing as they watched him walk. Ugh, he thought, not again. He was all too used to behaviour like that. In fact, he was rather sick of it. It got on his nerves, and reminded him that most people only liked him because of his looks, and not his personality, which bothered him.

He made his way, with his bag hoisted over his shoulder, to Room 364, which was on floor four of building two. He walked into the foyer and managed to locate an elevator, and went up to flour four. The hallways were long, lined on every side with doors of the same design. It was rather like a hotel - albeit, a boring one. He counted the rooms silently in his head.

359, 360, 361, 362, 363..."Ah!", he exclaimed, "364". He took the key out of his pocket and unlocked the door, and when he opened it, he was met with a reasonably stylish room, with a king sized bed (score!), a sofa, a TV, and a separate kitchen suite and bathroom. I could get used to his, he thought, smiling. Maybe this was a good idea after all.

He noticed his luggage placed carefully next to his bed, but decided to get ready for his classes before unpacking. After all, that's what he came here to do. He opened his backpack and pulled out all of the required books he purchased back home. He filed them neatly into a pile, picked them up and left for the library, arguably the best place to start reading up on what he was going to take classes on.

He opened the door and walked down the hallway, head down and stupidly not looking where he was going, when suddenly he bashed into something - or more like someone.

"Oh shit!", he said, "I-i'm so sorry! I was being an idiot, I didn't look where I was going". He immediately dropped down to the floor to help retrieve the other person's fallen books, when he suddenly noticed the shoes - red converses.

"David...?"

"Exer...?".