Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I just wanna get to know ya

Guess I didn't quite think it through (nah-uh, girl)

Fell in love with the thought of you

Now I'm choked up, face down, burnt out

Whizzer had finally found a new job in the city after being laid off from his last one, which he had been really pissed about. Seriously, how does “flirting with the customers instead of working” and “showing up hungover” get you fired?! He didn’t get it. But, after scouring the streets of New York, and interview after interview, he got a job at a small coffee shop. It was cozy and had a rustic style to it. Not really Whizzers type of vibe, but it would have to do. After a few weeks, he had started to get familiar with the regulars and their orders, as well as learning how to use the blender without getting someone’s smoothie down his front.

It was a snowy Tuesday afternoon in December when Whizzer saw him walk through the door. His name was Marvin, as Whizzer gathered from his orders, and he came to the coffee shop every Monday through Friday at 1:25pm. He always ordered the same thing, a large iced coffee to go. Whizzer knew he probably shouldn’t know the exact time some random man got his coffee every day, but in his defence, it technically was his job. Marvin made his way up to the counter.

“Hello,” he said, smiling softly, “One large iced coffee for Marvin to go, please.”

“There it is” Whizzer thought to himself, “Of course! That’ll be $4.35,” He replied with a smile.

Marvin took out his wallet and gave the taller man $5. Whizzer opened the register to get him his change, but Marvin stopped him, “Oh, keep the change,” he insisted. Whizzer was confused, but nodded slowly. He wasn’t used to getting tips, especially not from someone as handsome as Marvin. Sure, he had gotten tips before, but most of them he flirted his way into getting. He began making Marvins drink, only half focusing on what he was doing, which he only realised when he dropped a scoop of ice onto the floor.

“Oh, shit,” he muttered to himself, squatting down to clean up his mess. God, he should’ve been paying more attention, but it wasn’t his fault that the drinks owner was the most attractive man on the planet. Marvin looked over at him and rolled his eyes.

Whizzer felt a strange feeling when he saw the eye roll. Was this guy an asshole? Probably. He wouldn’t be surprised. He always seemed to be attracted to men who were mean. He didn’t know why. It’s not like he wanted to be treated like nothing, but he couldn’t help it. He made Marvin’s drink and wrote the shorter man’s name on it. He debated adding a heart over the “i”, but he decided against it. It felt to forward.

“Iced coffee for Marvin?” He called out.

Marvin came up to the counter and took his drink. “Thanks,” he said, giving him a small smile before walking away. Whizzers heart couldn’t help but flutter at the smile. Sure, it may have been a dumb thing to get butterflies over, but his smile was so sweet. It made Whizzers heart melt.

“Whizzer!” Someone from behind him said. He snapped his head around to see his boss, Cordelia, staring at him with her hands on her hips. “What are you doing?” She said, clearly annoyed. Whizzer turned his head back to the shop. There was a small line forming. Whizzer groaned, realising he had zoned out.

“Sorry…” He mumbled, going over to take everyone’s order.

———

After what felt like years, it was finally time to close up. Whizzer said goodbye to Cordelia and made his way to the subway. He went over to the ticket machine. He held his card up to it, but it got denied.

“Shit,” he muttered. He tried again, but it still didn’t work.

“Need help?” A voice from behind him said. Whizzer turned around to see Marvin standing there. He moved past him and put his card up to the machine. The ticket printed and he handed it to Whizzer.

“Thanks…” Whizzer whispered, “You didn’t have to do that,” he said in an almost defensive tone.

“I was just helping out,” Marvin replied.

“I have money.”

“Your card clearly wasn’t working.”

“How do you know i don’t have cash?”

“Do you?”

Whizzer folded his arms, “No… But you didn’t know that,” he retorted.

“I was just being nice,” Marvin snapped back.

“You didn’t have to be.”

“I’ll happily take the ticket back.”

“No, i don’t want that.”

“Then what do you want?“ Marvin asked, getting angrier.

Whizzer scoffed. He stormed over to the escalators and basically threw himself down them. He wanted to get home as soon as possible. God, he was such an idiot. He had the perfect opportunity to talk to the man he’d basically been obsessing over for weeks, and he blew it. He pushed past everyone when the train arrived. He collapsed onto the closest available seat and sighed.

When he got home, he felt like a weight had been lifted off his chest. He threw his bag and jacket onto the couch and made his way to his bathroom. He took his clothes off and tuned the shower on, letting the cold water hit his body. He stood there, feeling alone with his thoughts. He felt so unbelievably stupid. Why did he act like that to Marvin? He probably thought he was an asshole now. It’s not like he thought Marvin was nice anyway, but he didn’t want to make a bad impression.

Whizzer snapped out of his thoughts when the water started burning his skin. He got out the shower and got his clothes on. He lay in his bed, but he couldn’t sleep. His thoughts were taking over his mind. What was he going to do when he saw Marvin the next day? Was he even going to come? His head was spinning. After what was probably hours, he finally fell asleep. He was not ready for the day ahead of him.

Chapter Text

Thought I'd be cool in California

I'd make you proud

To think I almost had it going

But I let you down

Whizzer woke up to the blaring sound of his alarm. He groaned and threw a pillow over his face, trying to drown out the ringing noise. It didn’t work. He turned it off and got up, getting ready for the day. He raided his closet, looking for a plain white shirt. After he spent 10 minutes of looking, he realised it was a lost cause. He looked over at the pile of clothes at the end of his bed, seeing all his white shirts wrinkled and dirty.

“That’s just great…” he muttered. He turned back to his wardrobe, looking for something else that could work. Of course, he didn’t own any black shirts. Why would he? He felt he was too exquisite for that. He settled for a plain pink shirt, hoping Cordelia would be fine with it.

After he spent too much time looking for a shirt, he was running late. He hastily made himself breakfast, throwing his shoes on as he ate. He grabbed his bag and walked as fast as he could to the subway. When he got there, he basically threw himself onto the closest ticket machine. He put his card up to the machine, but it got denied.

“Goddammit, not now,” he said to himself. He opened his wallet for some cash, but he only had a dollar. “Shit.”

“Taking your time,” a voice from behind his said. Whizzer tensed at the voice, recognising it immediately. He turned around to see the exact man he was expecting. Marvin. “Some of us have places to be,” he said, annoyed.

“Maybe if you gave me time, I’d be out of your way,” Whizzer said with a scoff, turning back to the machine.

“Why are you trying again? You clearly don’t have enough money.”

“Leave me alone.”

“Just letting you know you’re wasting your time.”

“So are you. Go to a different machine.”

Whizzer could feel the shorter mans eyes roll. “I chose this one, I’m staying at this one. It’s not my fault you have no money,” Marvin said.

Whizzer snapped his head around. “Why are you being such an ass?” he asked. He moved closer so he was towering over him.

Marvin let out a chuckle. “I’m just telling the truth. Want me to pay for your ticket again?” he teased. Whizzer opened his mouth to speak, but before he could, Marvin pushed past him. “It’s almost 9, I need to be at work.”

Whizzer was standing in a state of shock before storming off. “Asshole!” he yelled, gaining glances from the people around them.

He frantically rushed out of the station. He would have to walk to work. Great. Not only was he not in proper uniform, but he would also be late. How had Cordelia not fired him yet? When he finally got to work, it was almost 10. Cordelia’s happy demeanour shifted when she saw Whizzer. She pulled him behind the counter.

“Where have you been?” she asked, her face slightly red. “Your shift started at 9! It’s…” she looked at her watch then back at Whizzer, “9:54!”

Whizzer sighed. “I’m sorry. My card wasn’t working and I didn’t have cash so I had to walk. Plus there was this guy at the subway who was being a total ass,” he explained.

“Well, a text would’ve been nice! And it doesn’t explain what this is about!” she said, gesturing to his pink shirt.

Whizzer hummed. “I didn’t have any clean white shirts,” he whispered.

Cordelia threw her hands up, “Jesus, Whizzer!” she ran a hand through her hair. “Just start working. You’re lucky I like you.” She stormed into the back office.

Whizzer nodded and walked over to serve the customer on the other side of the counter.

———

The coffee shop had been a lot quieter than usual that day. Whizzer has missed the usual morning rush due to a man that he was not looking forward to serving that afternoon. He was stood behind the counter, staring blankly at the front door. The door opened, filling the silent building with the rustling noise of the streets of New York. The sounds faded as the door closed, making Whizzer focus on the man approaching him.

“Can I have an iced coffee, please?” Marvin asked, giving him a sly smirk.

Whizzer gave him a fake smile, “Yes. That’ll be $4.35.”

Marvin handed him $5, “And I’d like the change.”

Whizzer had to hold back a scoff. He gave Marvin his change back and began making his drink. He felt the shorter man’s eyes on him the entire time the drink was being made.

“Taking your time,” Marvin said, sounding unimpressed. Whizzer didn’t answer, just focusing on making the drink. Marvin continued talking, “You’re quiet now. Where was this attitude this morning, huh?” He asked, clearly not wanting an actual answer. Whizzer could tell Marvin was smirking behind him.

The taller man finished making the drink and gave it to Marvin, who took a sip and grimaced slightly, “God, this doesn’t taste the same as normal. Have I got you all upset?“ He teased, the grimace turning into a smirk.

“Enjoy your day,” Whizzer said, just wanting him to get away.

Marvin smirk grew wider, “Fine. I’ll see you tomorrow.” And with that, he left.

Whizzer sighed in relief. He slumped against the counter. Why was Marvin so… rude? Sure, Whizzer could’ve been a bit nicer, but it’s not like he was doing anything on purpose. Everything he had said to the brunette had been whatever came out of his mouth, which usually isn’t good. But Marvin was different. He knew what he was going to say. He knew what to say to get Whizzer riled up. And it drove Whizzer crazy. He heard the cafe door open, thankful for the distraction. He knew Marvin would be on his mind everyday from now on, and he hated it.

Chapter Text

I could be the one, or your new addiction

It's all in my head but I want non-fiction

I don't want the world, but I'll take this city

Who can blame a girl? Call me hot, not pretty

It had been a few days since Whizzer and Marvin’s first interaction. Marvin still came to the cafe at the same time everyday. He was still snarky, but Whizzer was trying his best to ignore him comments. It was a Saturday, meaning Marvin most likely wouldn’t come in. The snow outside was hitting the window softly and Whizzer was watching the people pass by. The door opened, a wave of cold air coming into the cafe, then closed a second later.

“Dad, I just wanna go home,” The small boy who had walked in said.

“Jason, you’ll be home in a second. I’m buying you hot chocolate, why aren’t you happy?” Marvin said. Wait.

Whizzed whipped his head and saw Marvin with an almost identical tween boy with him. Marvin walked up to the counter and… smiled?

“Can I have a small hot chocolate and an iced coffee, please?” He asked.

“I want a medium,” The boy, who Whizzer guessed was his son, chirped.

Marvin sighed, “A medium hot chocolate instead, please.”

Whizzer just stood there for a minute. Marvin was being somewhat nice? He nodded slowly, “Yeah, course. That’ll be $8.30.”

Marvin handed him the money. Whizzer handed him the change.

“Dad, why aren’t you tipping him? You always tip.” Marvin’s son said.

Marvin looked at him then up at Whizzer. “Sure, Jason. I’ll tip him,” He said, giving him the change back.

“See? Was that so hard?” Jason asked, folding his arms and sitting down. Whizzer had to hold back a laugh, but a small smile appeared on his face.

“What’s so funny?” Marvin asked, his voice a little grumpy.

“Nothing, just the fact that your son is bossing you around. And it works,” Whizzer replied. Marvin huffed and sat down next to Jason.

Whizzer started making the drinks, looking over at Marvin and Jason every so often. He could see Marvin trying to talk to Jason, who was clearly not very interested. Whizzer could see on Marvin’s face that he was upset. He couldn’t help but feel bad for the other man, even if they didn’t like each other that much. He finished making the drinks. “Uh, your drinks are ready,” He spoke up.

Jason walked up to the counter and took the drinks. “Thank you,” He said, smiling. He looked at the hot chocolate. “Oh, can I have some marshmallows, please?”

Whizzer smiled. The kid seemed so sweet, unlike his dad. He put some marshmallows into the hot chocolate.

“Thanks!” Jason squeaked. He went out the door, shortly followed by Marvin.

Whizzer watched them leave. He just stood there. He had no clue Marvin had a kid. Was he married? He wasn’t sure why, but the thought made his stomach flip. He watched Marvin walk away through the window. Maybe Marvin wasn’t so bad. He sighed. The door opened a minute later and Marvin walked over to the counter.

“Do you have any napkins?” He asked, his shirt covered in iced coffee.

Whizzer chuckled, handing over a napkin. “What happened?” He asked, raising an eyebrow. “Had a little spill?”

Marvin, for the first time ever, laughed. Not a mocking laugh, a genuine laugh. “Yeah. I started the car and it just…” He sighed.

“That’s a shame,” Whizzer replied. “Want me to make you another?”

The shorter man smiled, “That’s okay, I should get going. I need to get my kid home, otherwise my ex-wife will kill me.” He said. Ex-wife. Whizzer smiled to himself. “I’ll see you Monday,” Marvin said, beginning to walk away.

“Yeah, see you Monday,” Whizzer replied, watching Marvin go.

Cordelia walked over to him, “Slow day.” She said with a sigh. She looked over to him, “Jeez, you’re redder than a tomato. Are you sick?” She asked, sounding concerned.

“Uh, no, I’m fine,” Whizzer replied, “I’m just kinda warm.” He lied. She raised an eyebrow, but he ignored it. “Um, random question, but you wouldn’t happen to know that Marvin guy who comes in, like, everyday, would you?”

“Yeah, he’s my neighbour. He just moved in so I don’t know him that well, but I know he recently got divorced. I’m not sure why though.” The blonde woman replied. “I’ve been inviting him over for dinner, but he won’t come. Maybe one day I’ll get him,” She chuckled. “Why do you wanna know? You got a crush?”

Whizzer scoffed, “I do not have a crush. I’m too old for crushes. Besides, he’s the straightest man I’ve ever met. Not to mention he hates me.” He sighed. “I don’t think he’d like me.”

“I mean, just cause he looks straight doesn’t mean he is,” Cordelia said with a smile. “He could be kissing guys left and right! But hopefully not cause he might like you.”

“I just said i don’t like him.”

“You do.”

“I don’t.”

“Do.”

“You’re lucky I like you.” He said, shoving her gently.

She laughed, “Shut up and get to work!”

He rolled his eyes and waited for the next costumer. He was thinking about what Cordelia said. Did he like Marvin? No, he couldn’t. Marvin seemed smart, fancy, stuck-up, annoying, rude, straight. Whizzer was… Well, the exact opposite. They would never be a good couple. But part of Whizzer couldn’t help but feel weird whenever the other man was around. Was it a crush? Or was it just pure hatred? It didn’t feel like hatred. Whizzer hated a lot of people and none of them made him feel like… whatever he was feeling. He sighed, knowing he’d just have to wait and find out.

Chapter Text

After midnight

I'm feeling kinda freaky, maybe it's the moonlight

I kinda wanna kiss your boyfriend if you don't mind

I love a little, uh-huh, let's watch the sunrise

Cause everything good happens after

Whizzer had spent the past 3 weeks thinking about Marvin. Every day he came in it made Whizzer’s heart fell like it was going to explode. Did he have a crush? Yes. Would he admit that? No. Why would he ever admit to having a crush on the guy he hated? It was embarrassing enough that he liked him. He sighed, watching people of New York walk by the windows of the coffee shop. His mind was filled of thoughts of Marvin. His eyes, his nose, his hair—

“…Whizzer!!” Cordelia said, her voice loud but not yelling.

“Hmm?” Whizzer hummed, turning his head to her. He looked at her then at the small line forming.

“Wake up,” She said, turning to make a cup of coffee.

He groaned and walked over to the next person in line, “Hi, what can I do for ya’?” He asked with a small smile to the woman on the other side of the counter, trying to seem at least a little interested. Sometimes he really couldn’t be bothered with his job.

“Hi,” The woman replied. She was around her early 30’s with beautiful brown hair. She seemed like she could break down in any second. “Uh, can I have a medium black coffee and a small hot chocolate?”

“A medium,” A young and familiar boy chirped up from beside her. Marvin’s son.

The woman sighed, “Um, can you make that a medium hot chocolate, please?” She asked, clearly trying to put on a smile.

Whizzer smiled back, “Of course, that’ll be $9.”

The woman sighed and sorted through her purse, taking out single dollars and cents. “Sorry,” She said, picking out the last few cents of her purse and sliding it over to him.

He counted it, “Perfect, thanks. What name should I call?”

“Uh, Trina,” She said.

He nodded, “Your drinks will be ready soon.” He smiled and started making the drinks.

Trina sat down with Jason. They sat in the same place Marvin and the kid had sat in a few weeks prior, though he looked much happier with his mother. Whizzer only had one question. Why? Why was Jason happier with his mom than with his dad? Was Marvin mean to him? Is that why he got divorced? He shook the thoughts away and made the drinks.

“Order for Trina,” He called out a few minutes later.

Trina walked up and took the drinks, “Thank you.” She said, giving him a warm and gentle smile.

Whizzer smiled back. “Anytime. Enjoy,” He said as she turned away.

Jason walked up to him, “Excuse me?” He squeaked up. He looked like a little mouse and it made Whizzers heart melt.

“Yeah?’ He replied. “You okay?”

The boy nodded. “Yeah, I’m just wondering… Does my dad come in here everyday? He’s called Marvin.” He asked.

Whizzer nodded, “Yeah, he does. At around 1:25. Why?”

Jason shrugged, “No reason. Thanks…” He said. He turned around and walked out of the shop.

Whizzer was left confused. What was that about? Now he really wanted to know about Marvin’s life. He knew it was none of his business, but he couldn’t help it.

———

It was finally closing time for the shop. Whizzer wanted to finally get home. He was sweeping the floors while Cordelia was wiping the countertops.

“Hey, Whizz? Do you wanna come out with me and Charlotte tonight?” She asked. “We’re gonna go to that gay bar downtown. What’s it called? Uh… Oh, I can’t remember! You know the one I mean.”

Whizzer chuckled, “I do.” He sighed. “I don’t know, I might stay home tonight. I’m exhausted.”

“Whizzer!!” Cordelia said with a slight whine. “Pleaseeee? We invited Marvin!”

His eyes widened and he felt himself turn red, “Marvin? Like… Marvin Marvin? The one who comes here everyday? Your neighbour?”

She laughed, “Yeah. Why? Wanna come now?” She teased.

“No,” He said with a scoff. “Just… I might come now. You know, so Marvin’s not 3rd wheeling all night.”

Cordelia hummed in response, making Whizzer glare at her.

The second Whizzer got home, he flung open his closet and threw everything onto the floor. He need his outfit to be perfect. He looked though all the clothes, sorting it into a “yes” pile and a “no” pile. In the end, he picked out brown jeans and a blue shirt. He checked his watch. He had spent all his time choosing an outfit. He quickly made himself some toast before throwing on his brown leather jacket and leaving the house. He walked to the bar and met Cordelia, Charlotte and Marvin outside.

“You came!” Cordelia said with a squeal, running up to hug him.

He hugged her back, laughing, “I did. Couldn’t leave you guys all alone. You’d have no fun.” He teased, making both women laugh. Marvin laughed awkwardly, looking the taller man up and down. Whizzer blushed and cleared his throat, “Well, are we gonna stand outside all night or are we gonna do something with our lives?” He asked. They all walked inside.

After an hour, Cordelia was already drunk. She was very lightweight. She was laying on Charlottes shoulder, trying to keep herself awake. Charlotte was talking to Marvin about some sort of work thing, but Whizzer wasn’t paying much attention. He was just watching Marvin. He was so beautiful. Whizzer wasn’t sure if it was just his drunkenness, but he was feeling bold.

“Hey, Marvin?” He piped up, interrupting whatever conversation Marvin and Charlotte were having.

“Yes?” Marvin replied, taking a sip of his drink.

“You’re, like, really good looking. Did you know that?” Whizzer said with a smirk. “Like, you should be a model. What even is your job?” He placed his hand on the shorter mans arm.

Marvin turned bright pink, “Uh… I’m a weatherman. For channel five. Every morning at 7.” He replied.

Whizzer hummed. “Weatherman, huh? So I can see you on TV every morning? Good to know,” He smirked.

“Yeah, I guess you can,” He said with a chuckle.

“Is weather, like, your passion?” Whizzer asked.

Marvin nodded, “Yeah, it is. Do you have a passion? Is it coffee making or..?”

The taller man laughed, “Oh, my god, no way. The coffee shops fine, I guess, but my real passion is photography. I know it sounds stupid, but it’s not.”

Marvin chuckled, “I’ll take your word for it.”

Whizzer smiled, “So, Marvin… since you’re at this bar, does that mean your gay?”

Marvin froze. “Um… well… I’m here because Charlotte and Cordelia invited me.” He replied. “I’m straight. Yeah. Straight.”

“Oh.” Whizzer said softly. That felt like a stab in the heart. Of course Marvin was straight. He got up. “I’m sorry, I have to go. Goodbye.” He said, rushing out of the bar. He speed walked his way home. He rushed inside and into his bedroom. He immediately took off his clothes and changed into a plain shirt and some random shorts. He lay in his bed, staring at the ceiling. Why was he so upset? God, he was overreacting. Marvin was straight, it was as simple as that. What was the big deal?

“What is wrong with you?” He whispered to himself, sighing softly. He just closed his eyes and fell asleep, letting himself have a break from thoughts for a few hours. Hopefully he’d get over this soon.

Chapter Text

You say you’re looking for someone

Who’s never weak but always strong

To protect you and defend you

Whether you are right or wrong

“Dad!!” Marvin heard Jason yelling into his ear. “Wake up! I’m late for baseball!” The boy said, annoyed and stressed. He grabbed Marvin’s blanket and threw it onto the floor, pulling the curtains open on his way out.

Marvin slowly rose from bed. “Yeah, yeah, I’m coming,” He mumbled. His head was throbbing slightly from the drinks the night before. God, he didn’t want to think about that. About Whizzer. Their conversation kept replaying in his head. Why would Whizzer ask if he was gay? Sure, he was at a gay bar, but that was because Cordelia and Charlotte invited him! Not because he was gay. Obviously.

He put on a red hoodie and a random pair of jeans from the floor. Once dressed, Jason grabbed his arm and dragged him out the door. “Calm down, kid!” He snapped. Jason let go immediately and backed off. Marvin sighed, “I didn’t mean to snap. I’m sorry. Get in the car, I’m gonna grab some food. I’ll only be a second.”

“Dad, I’m already late!” Jason complained.

“C’mon, you’re not that…” He trailed off when he checked his watch. Jason was 5 minutes late already, and it would be close to 15 minutes by the time they got to the field. “Let’s go,” He said.

They sat in silence the whole way up. Jason was staring out the window, clearly irritated.

Marvin sighed. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realise what the time was,” He said. Jason just mumbled a “whatever” and kept his gaze on the buildings they were driving past. “Why didn’t you wake me up sooner?”

Jason finally looked at his dad. “It’s not my job to wake you up,” He snapped. “And I did try to wake you up, but you were fast asleep.” He huffed and turned away again. “This is why I wanna live with mom all the time,” He whispered.

Marvin grip tightened on the steering wheel, “What did you say, kid?”

“You heard me. I want to live with mom.”

His grip tightened, “You’re just saying that because you’re upset.”

“I’m not. Mom doesn’t come home drunk. Mom doesn’t yell at me for no reason. Mom isn’t the reason for the divorce!”

Marvin spun the car around.

Jason looked at him, “What are you doing? Turn the car back around! I’m late!”

“I’m taking you to your moms. She can take you.”

“That’s not fair! Mom’s house is 20 minutes away. We’re almost there. Please, dad!” Jason begged, tearing up.

Marvin’s grip loosened and he pulled over. He took a few deep breaths. “I’m sorry, Jase. I’ll drop you off.”

“Is mom picking me up?”

“Yes.”

“Good.”

Marvin dropped Jason off at baseball. His son sprinted out the car without a goodbye. Marvin went back to his apartment. As he was walking up the stairs, he ran into Cordelia.

“Oh, sorry Marvin! I’m running a little late,” She said, smiling softly. “Are you home already?”

He nodded, “Yeah, I just dropped Jason off at baseball practice.”

“Oh, I meant from work. I’ve never seen you back this early.”

Marvin froze. “Oh, shit.” He ran into his house and changed into a suit and tie. His outfit was mismatched. A blue plaid shirt, beige jeans and a knitted red square tie. He brushed his hair until it looked reasonably tidy. He sprinted to his car and drove to his work, almost hitting at least 3 people on the way there. When he arrived at work, he jogged inside and went into his office.

When he opened his office door and saw his boss sat at his desk. “Marvin! I’m glad you decided to come in. Where have you been?” He asked angrily.

“I’m sorry, sir. I slept through my alarm and I had to bring my kid to baseball practice—“

“A call would’ve been nice. We almost didn’t have a weather report! We had to throw some intern in. It was awful. You do one thing every morning then do who knows what in your office all day. Don’t let this happen again,” His boss stormed out.

Marvin groaned and sat at his desk. He looked outside the window. It had started pouring with rain. Poor Jason, having to practice in the rain. He put his glasses on and tried to do some work, but his mind betrayed him. He couldn’t help but think about Whizzer again. About their conversation the previous night. Why was he thinking about him? It wasn’t like he was gay or anything. At least, he didn’t think so… No. He was straight. He was married to a woman. Yes, they had gotten divorced because Marvin was unhappy in the marriage, but he was unhappy because… He just was!

Even if he was gay, (which he wasn’t!), Whizzer wasn’t even all that. Okay, he was funny and nice to him even when Marvin would be rude to him. Not to mention he was very nice to look at, but there was probably more attractive guys. Could Marvin name them? No. Does that mean they don’t exist? He wasn’t sure.

Marvin’s mind blanked as he kept thinking about Whizzer. The way his hair swooped perfectly to the side, even when he’s outside in the wind. The soft look in his eyes. The way he smiled, the way he laughed, the way he looked at Marvin at the bar…

“Stop it,” He whispered to himself. He wasn’t gay. He looked back at his computer, putting his mind back to his work, though the conversation with Whizzer still rang in his head.

———

At 1 o’clock, Marvin left the office to go for his lunch break. For the first ten minutes, he just sat in his car in the parking lot. He needed a minute of silence. Whizzer would not get out of his head. He groaned and started driving.

He parked outside the same coffee shop he always went to. He prayed that Whizzer wouldn’t be the one serving him. He took a deep breath and walked inside.

Unfortunately, that prayer didn’t work. When he walked inside, he made direct eye contact with Whizzer, who’s smile immediately became forced.

Marvin walked over to the counter. “Hey.”

“Hi,” Whizzer replied.

“Uh, iced coffee.”

“Yeah, I know. $4.35.”

Marvin handed him $5. “Keep the change.”

Whizzer’s smile became a bit more genuine. “Thanks,” He mumbled. He turned around and started making the drink.

Marvin looked around. No one else was waiting to order, so Marvin, for some reason, decided to spark conversation. “Uh, why did you leave so early last night?” He asked, already mentally cursing himself for asking.

Whizzer stopped for a second, then continued making his drink. “I started feeling sick. I didn’t wanna throw up all over you,” He responded, not looking at the shorter man.

Marvin hummed. “Right.” He paused for a second. “Did I say something wrong? You left right after our conversation, so I thought maybe I said something out of pocket it something.”

“No.” Whizzer said flatly.

“You sure? You seemed upset.”

“I said no.” He handed Marvin his drink. “Enjoy.”

“Thanks,” Marvin said. When he picked it up, his hand brushed against Whizzer’s. He felt his heart rate go up. Why? He had no idea. He quickly rushed out of the building and into the cold. He almost ran into another man, who just grunted and walked inside.

“Sorry…” Marvin mumbled. He walked back to his car, looking through the window at Whizzer. The man seemed to be flirting with the cute— no, average looking barista. Whizzer had that same stupid smile on his face that he always had.

Marvin walked into his car. He sat at the wheel for a few minutes. His heart felt like it was aching. Was that Whizzer’s boyfriend? No, he couldn’t be. If Whizzer had a boyfriend, why was he flirting with Marvin the previous night? Was he even flirting? Marvin groaned and drove off.

———

Later that night, Marvin was at home watching a trashy action movie and drinking. It was well past midnight, around 1 or 2 in the morning, but Marvin wasn’t tired. He jumped slightly at the sound of a knock on his front door. He walked angrily over to it. Who was bothering him at this time in the morning?! He opened it and was greeted by… Whizzer?

“Oh, Whizzer. What are you doing here? It’s…” He checked his watch, “2:30am. How did you even find my apartment?”

Whizzer barged into the apartment, “Oh, Marvin! I’m looking for Charlotte and Cordelia, are they in here?” He asked, his speech slurred. He was clearly very, very drunk.

“Their place is across the hall,” The shorter man said. “I’d imagine they’re both probably sleeping by now. Why were you looking for them?”

Whizzer stumbled around Marvin’s living room, picking up random stuff, “I wanted to stay at their place tonight!” He collapsed onto the couch.

“Why? What’s wrong with your place?”

“Too far.” He mumbled. He buried his face into the pillow and closed his eyes.

Marvin sighed. “Wanna stay here?” He asked, but the other man was already snoring softly.

Marvin threw a blanket over him then walked into his room. He lay on his bed. Whizzer was sleeping on his couch. Whizzer, who he had been thinking of all day, was sleeping on his couch. Marvin felt his heart flutter. God, he felt like a teenager. Was he really as straight at he thought he was? He had to have been, right? There would be no harm in testing the waters… He closed his eyes and went to sleep, dreaming of Whizzer.

Chapter Text

Do you picture me like I picture you?

Am I in the frame from your point of view?

Do you feel the same?

I’m too scared to say

Half of the things I do when I picture you

Whizzer woke up with a throbbing headache. He groaned and sat up. He looked around the room he was in. It was messy, but somehow still organised. He didn’t recognise it. Where was he? There was footsteps and shuffling coming from what seemed to be the kitchen. Whizzer got up and stumbled towards the sounds. He knew he must’ve gotten blackout drunk the previous night and was probably at some random guys house.

When he entered the kitchen, he was greeted with Marvin making himself some coffee. Whizzer froze. He hooked up with Marvin?! He cleared his throat, making the shorter man turn to face him.

“Uh, you’re awake. Morning,” Marvin said calmly. “Want some coffee?”

Whizzer looked at him blankly, “So you’re just not gonna tell me what happened last night?” He asked. “Did we hook up? I thought you were straight?”

“No, no, no! We didn’t hook up!” Marvin said, rushed. He cleared his throat. “You showed up her at, like, 2am because you thought it was Charlotte and Cordelia’s place. You fell onto my couch before I could even talk to you.”

Whizzer was quiet for a moment. “Well, thank you for letting me stay.” He mumbled.

“You’re welcome.”

There was an awkward silence between them.

“I’m sorry about the other night—“ Marvin started.

“Don’t.” Whizzer said. “You don’t need to say sorry again. There’s nothing to be sorry about.” He felt his heart ache as he said that.

Marvin looked at him for a second. The look was unreadable and by the time Whizzer tried to study it, the shorter man turned to make coffee.

The rest of the morning was awkward. They barely spoke apart from the occasional ‘thank you’ or comment about the weather. Marvin offered Whizzer some of his clothes, but Whizzer declined. He couldn’t wear Marvin’s clothes. It felt too… intimate. And it made his heart sting. Of course he had to fall for a straight man. Well, he wasn’t falling for him. Definitely not. He couldn’t.

Soon, both men had to leave for work. They walked silently to the subway, sharing glances every now and then. Whizzer’s hand swung next to Marvin’s. He had an urge to grab his hand, but he couldn’t. He shoved his hands into his jacket pockets, trying to ignore whatever he was feeling. He bought himself a ticket and turned to Marvin. “Guess this is goodbye. For now,” He said.

Marvin smiled. “Yeah, I guess,” He replied, “See you at lunch.”

Whizzer smiled back, “Yeah, see you.” He mumbled before leaving. He walked down the escalators and waited for his train. He looked across to the other platform. His heart stopped as he saw Marvin staring at him. They held eye contact until Whizzer’s train came between them. He felt his breathe hitch. People pushed passed him to get on and off. Whizzer blinked and made his way onto the train before it sped off. He slumped down and looked out the window, trying to find the other man, but he had disappeared.

———

Whizzer had been feeling strange all day. It wasn’t just his hangover, it was something else. He felt like he was experiencing heartache in a way he’d never felt it before. Like he was yearning for something that wasn’t there. Whatever it was, it was eating him alive.

At 1:25pm, as usual, Marvin showed up. He walked over to the counter with a smile. “Hey,” He said.

Whizzer smiled back. His heart ached more. “Hi,” He replied. His eyes studied Marvin’s face for a minute before he snapped back into reality. “Uh, iced coffee. Coming right up.”

Marvin nodded and handed him $5. The taller man began making the drink when Marvin spoke up. “I was wondering if you wanted to go out tonight? Like, to a bar, or something,” He asked.

Whizzer froze. His cheeks went pink. “Just us two?”

“Yeah. Just us.”

Whizzer finished making the drink. “Sure. Why not?” He handed him the drink with a smile. “Where should we meet?”

“How about the same bar as the other night? At 9?”

“9? What are we, 12?” Whizzer joked.

Marvin chuckled. “Fine, 10.”

“11.”

“10:30.”

“Deal. See you there.”

Marvin sipped his drink and left. Whizzer let out a shaky breath. He was going on a date— No, it wasn’t a date. It was just a friendly outing. Between friends. One of which was straight. He bit his lower lip. It was just two guy friends hanging out at a gay bar. That’s all. Nothing more.

———

Whizzer had spent hours getting ready for his date— Hangout with Marvin. He made sure to choose the perfect outfit, wear the perfect cologne and style his hair perfectly. Because he knew Marvin wouldn’t want him to look disheveled. He got to the bar half an hour early just so the other man wasn’t waiting in the cold for him. That’s what a good friend would do.

Marvin arrived a little bit before 10:30. He smiled when he saw Whizzer, his cheeks red from the cold. “Hey!” He said, walking up to him.

Whizzer smiled back. “Hi,” He mumbled. “Should we head in? Not the nicest weather out here.”

Marvin nodded. They made their way into the bar and found a table near the back. The shorter man ordered them both drinks.

“Wow, trying to sweep me off my feet by buying me a drink?” Whizzer teased.

Marvin blushed slightly. “I thought it would be nice,” He mumbled.

The blush made Whizzer’s heart flip. “It is. Thank you.”

Marvin smiled at him. “Why don’t you tell me about yourself?”

Whizzer smirked. “Really? That’s how you want to spend your evening?”

The shorter man nodded.

“Okay. What do you wanna know?”

“Are you from New York?”

“Born and raised. You?”

“The same.”

Whizzer hummed. They sat in silence for a second. “Why did you ask me here?” He asked, making Marvin blush more.

“Uh, I just want to get to know you more. You’re pretty cool.” He rushed out.

Whizzer tilted his head. He knew there was more. “You know, I’d like you more if you told me the truth,” He told him. “Why are we really here?”

Marvin shrugged. “I don’t know what you mean. I want to be your… friend.”

The taller man leaned in slightly, eyebrow raised. “Friends?”

Marvin swallowed and leaned in, too. “Yeah, friends.”

Whizzer hummed. He looked down at both of their hands. They were so close. He had that urge again. The urge to hold his hand. Before he could do anything, Marvin put his hands over Whizzer’s.

Whizzer looked up at him. His eyes were drawn to the other man’s lips. He had to stop himself from getting closer and kissing him. “Should we go? Maybe my place?” He managed to choke the words out.

They held eye contact for a minute before Marvin nodded. They rushed over to Whizzer apartment. When they got inside, Whizzer pulled Marvin into a kiss. It was messy, but it was everything he had been wanting. When they broke apart, Marvin looked away.

“What’s wrong?” Whizzer asked.

“I’m not gay.” Marvin answered. “I mean, I don’t think…”

Whizzer raised an eyebrow. “That kiss said otherwise,” He teased, trying to hide the hurt in the other man’s words. “No harm in trying.”

Marvin looked back at him. “I guess.”

Whizzer smiled and pulled Marvin into his room.