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>> MATURE because this a steamy romance. You may say 'uwu' unironically. Go ahead, it's alright. I support you.

Ari was all but disenchanted with the holidays, and content to carry on in greyscale. But when a glimmer of hope steps into his life, he can't help but feel the rainbow shine through.

>> Author's Notes

I didn't quite expect to write a holiday story, but Christmas Day brought upon some sudden inspiration. So, while this is perhaps a touch late, I couldn't help but write it, and don't feel like hoarding it until next year.

This is perhaps a departure from what folks might be used to from me, but I've been wanting to write more romance. This was a fun opportunity to write a simple, sweet love story. And maybe you'll find a glimmer of hope for yourself as the story unfurls.

>> >> <> << <<

>> Glimmer - Part 01 <<

Written by SynthW4V3

>> >> <> << <<

The city of Echovale was a picturesque dream as the first hints of dawn graced its streets. December was in the throes of her final waltz, bringing about a fierce winter storm overnight. By morning, a delicate veil of snow had turned the once bustling city sprawl into a sparkling winter wonderland. Every building and rooftop glimmered, draped in a glistening layer of snow that resembled delicate lace and shimmering pearls. Despite the dreary grey sky looming above, the city danced with an otherworldly glow, like a symphony of opalescent melodies playing in perfect harmony. The stillness of the early morning seemed to amplify this ethereal atmosphere, as though the world itself was holding its breath in awe of the magical scene before it.

Each house, with their peaked roofs and frosted windows, were adorned with festive decorations, each home a masterpiece of holiday wonder. Wreaths and garland glittered in the gentle stillness, a soft layer of snow coated everything in a dreamy glow, while twinkling lights danced and sang in vibrant melodies. The colors swirled together like a merry carousel, casting playful patterns on the glistening ground, a whimsical dance in celebration of the season's magic.

That is, all but save for one particular residence.

Emerging from his home, Ari trudged through the frosty morning, feeling the chill bite into his charcoal fur. His windows remained bleak and unadorned, devoid of any festive cheer. To him, this day felt like just another mundane Monday, obliging him to step out into the snowy landscape and make his way to work. He tilted his head to the sky, the overcast gray mirroring his own visage. As he paused, frost coated the thick strands of his dark hair, framing his face like a winter shroud. In the pale glow of the neighborhood lights, his striking silver eyes held a haunting allure, a stark contrast against the desolation around him. He released a weighted sigh, the icy air penetrating deep into his bones.

"Another day, another dollar," he muttered, clearly disappointed by the storm's aftermath.

He wrapped his coat tighter around him, feeling the frosty air nipping at his fur as he plowed through the neighborhood, heading toward the trolley station. The snow crunched beneath Ari's boots, each step a crisp tempo in the morning quietude. The frost-kissed air carried his breath in wispy clouds, punctuating his drudgery with ethereal notes.. Amidst the soft veil of snow, his figure, sleek and defined, etched a solitary path against the winter landscape, a striking presence in the tranquil canvas of white.

The snow-capped cars stood tall and proud, like regal guardians of the street. Their hoods were adorned with a layer of glistening white, unspoiled by the usual hustle and bustle that would befall them shortly -- a peaceful reminder of the serene winter wonderland that enveloped the neighborhood. And just a stone's throw away, a playground lay still and silent, waiting patiently for the return of children's laughter. Its once lively swings and slides now frozen in time under a soft blanket of snow. The street was a wintry wonderland, the stillness broken only by the occasional jingling of wind chimes. It was as if the world had been paused for a moment, caught in a dreamy winter spell.

His usual commute to Echovale Mall was normally a straightforward affair -- walk, transfer, and arrive. A bit lengthy, but manageable. Yet today seemed to be intentionally designed to test the limits of his patience. He arrived just in time to miss his trolley, however another one arrived after a short wait. This would have been fine in and of itself, but after arriving at the station to catch the train over he stood at the platform for what seemed like ages. His frustration was nothing short of palpable in the frosty air.

After some time, he started to really feel the chill seep beneath his coat and scarf, and the stark realization that he was late for work was beginning to sink in.

"Ah, crap," Ari groaned, his impatience echoing through the station. He scowled, contemplating his options.

A tap on his shoulder broke his reverie. An elderly woman stood beside him. "Are you waiting for the twenty-one train?" she inquired gently.

Ari's scowl softened for a moment. "Yeah," he replied, his tone curt.

"It broke down earlier, it was on the news," she started to explain, sympathy evident in her voice.

"I don't watch the news," Ari interjected, abruptly moving away to find another train that would take him at least relatively close to his destination.

"Well, Merry Christmas to you, too." the woman huffed, her lingering goodwill dissipating.

To Ari, the holidays were a cacophony of artificial cheer that vanished as quickly as it appeared. Forced family gatherings echoed with hollow laughter and strained conversations. And then there were the obligatory rituals -- an awkward mix uncomfortable seasonal clothing, labor-intensive cooking, and the chaotic climax fueled by the inevitable family revelry with questionable beverages. Someone always had to bring up some kind of politics or whatever just to cut through any shred of good cheer that might have been settling upon the evening. His family drama could have easily rivaled a Pay-Per-View event.

Maybe they should have brought in some cameras.

He stopped bothering with all of those family gatherings years ago. He grew tired of so many aggravating, pushy questions.

"When are you going to get a real job?"

"Your drinking is out of control!"

"When're you gonna settle down with a nice girl already?"

Ari pushed those thoughts aside. He was content enough with his lot in life. His job provided well enough, he had a comfortable place to call home, and the idea of being in a relationship didn't particularly interest him. The holiday season held no allure; playing video games and drinking away his cares with his best friend Iggy seemed the only reprieve until December 26th when people stopped going out of their damned minds over it all.

He didn't mind it so much for New Year's.

Iggy had been Ari's closest friend since high school. With his fiery red hair and facial markings resembling untamed flames, Iggy had always been a spirited force. In their school days, he was the class clown, while Ari exuded an air of laid-back coolness. While their dynamics remained largely unchanged, their perspectives on life had certainly taken a turn toward the cynical. Iggy went on to be a bartender at a downtown club, while Ari found employment in the mall. More often than naught they could both be found sprawled on Ari's couch between shifts, passed out with empty bottles littering the floor around them.

As the morning dragged on, Ari trudged forward, feeling the biting cold while the city glimmered on. Yet, for Ari, there was no comfort in the festive glow -- only a bitter reminder of the insincerity that adorned the season.

Ari finally arrived, fortunately just forty-five minutes late. The mall was still eerily quiet, as it hadn't opened for the day yet. There was something about this lingering liminality that he enjoyed. No one to disturb him, no one asking for his help. Just pin drop peace and quiet. He passed through the entrance, taking in the lifeless storefronts that would soon be inundated with mindless consumers. Eventually, he approached his own store, and readied himself to face another day of meaningless retail life.

Spender's Gifts stocked everything one could possibly need and then, strangely, so much that was entirely unnecessary. It catered to the whims of the easily entertained, the obscurely twisted, or those with a penchant for the bizarre. Ari had never dwelled much on this peculiarity. His routine involved keeping the store put together while wearing his silly little apron and silly little nametag that read ARPEE.

One could blame a different series of unfortunate events for that one. Too much liquor on both he and Iggy's part, a discarded nametag, and a sharpie that magically appeared in Iggy's idle hands long after Ari had passed out.

At the entrance of the store stood Leonard, tall and well-groomed, with a muscled physique that his tan fur did little to conceal. He exuded an air of professionalism that seemed oddly out of place for Spender's. He was recently promoted to night manager, his inaugural shift slated for the following day. Ari couldn't quite figure him out; he didn't seem like he belonged in this store, but without him, it wouldn't be as organized and efficient as it typically was. If not for his perverted sense of humor and shared workplace the two would probably have never been anything more than strangers.

Arms folded tightly across his chest, Leonard met the grey wolf's gaze with a stern stare. Ari returned the glare, holding his ground until a weary sigh escaped Leonard's lips.

"You're lucky I caught the morning news about the train issue," he conceded.

"What's been going on?"

Leonard rubbed his tired eyes. "Yvette's been in full fury mode all morning. Figured it'd be best to track you down before she does."

"Oh... fantastic."

"We've got a newbie joining today. As you know I'm moving to nights, and someone needs to keep an eye on the fresh blood. Time schedules are all over the place."

With a shrug of indifference, Ari sauntered past the threshold, his demeanor a blend of nonchalance and resigned acceptance. He ventured into the quirky realm of Spender's Gifts, a haven of peculiarities and offbeat novelties that seemed to transcend the boundaries of mundane reality. As he roved his gaze across the expanse of the store, the familiar sights greeted him -- a kaleidoscope of peculiar gizmos and gadgets lined the shelves, band shirts and posters hung prominently, and a cascade of eye-catching keychains dangled invitingly.

The ambiance was electric, buzzing with the palpable energy of anticipation and whimsy. Every nook and cranny was adorned with a cacophony of novelties that beckoned the eccentric and easily amused -- a surreal playground for the whimsical and the curious. The store's walls echoed with the pulse of punk and alternative beats, just the kind of music to keep Ari's interest engaged.

Ari frequently found himself anchored to the cash register, his mere presence serving as a constant diversion from Leonard's tasks and often positioning him as the prime target for Yvie's ire.

Ah, the store's raven-haired and acerbic manager, Yvette. Yvie possessed an uncanny knack for dismantling even the most buoyant of spirits with her diabolical demeanor.

A resigned sigh escaped Ari's lips as he secured his apron, fastening the nametag that had fallen prey to Iggy's tinkering. Leonard's habitual smirk at the sight elicited a glare in response. In that regard, today unfolded with the same familiar rhythm as always.

Ari ventured toward the rear section of the store, beyond the conspicuous red sign proclaiming "Adults Only." As he crossed into the aisle, an incongruous sight caught his attention -- a peculiar small box inconspicuously positioned in his path. Curiosity piqued, he stooped to retrieve it, cradling it in his hands. Just as he turned to seek clarification from Leonard, a bone-chilling terror seized him, leaving him startled and screaming in sheer fright at the sight before him.

Yvette.

Her searing emerald eyes blazed with an intensity that could have made even the devil himself recoil.

"Nearly an HOUR late, and you're not even making an effort to unpack the new shipment that just arrived!" Her irritated voice reverberated through the space, her countenance contorted into aggravated fury. "The mall opens in ten minutes!"

"Wh... what?"

"If I catch you aimlessly wandering around like a lost child, I'll have you out of here before you can say 'Merry Fuckin' Christmas!'"

Ari observed the smaller yet remarkably louder and more intimidating woman as she stomped away, her vivid green highlights shimmering faintly under the dim store lights. With a pointed glare directed at Leonard, she stormed into the backroom, the door slamming shut behind her.

Standing next to Ari, both boys wore expressions akin to startled deer, their eyes wide and startled. They instinctively recoiled at the resonating thud of the door.

Ari glanced up at the brunet with a puzzled expression. "Do you think she's mad?"

"Like a volcano on the verge of eruption," Leonard replied, his voice tinged with a mix of apprehension and awe.

Ari shivered momentarily, then redirected his attention back to the box. "Hey, Leonard?"

"Yeah?" Leonard responded, already delving into another door leading to the storage room, retrieving a larger box and prying it open.

"What's supposed to be in here, anyway?"

"Oh, that's probably the shipment for the new chocolate pens. It was a last-minute addition. Just label them and get them on display."

With a dismissive gesture, Leonard ushered Ari away, leaving him to trudge back to the registers, bracing himself as the mall officially opened for yet another fun-filled day at Spender's Gifts.

Leonard waved his hand to dismiss Ari, leaving him to reluctantly make his way back to the registers. The loudspeakers broke the somber atmosphere of the mall as holiday music trickled in, the store's own radio playing alternative hits for him and his ilk. He could already feel the madness of another day at Spender's Gifts as the mall officially opened.

>> >> <> << <<

The roof lay cocooned in pristine snow, its blanket glistening beneath the soft glow of the morning sun. Ari leaned against the cold metal of the chain link fence, enjoying his reprieve from the morning's responsibilities, wisps of smoke curling lazily from the cigarette dangling between his fingers. A solitary figure amidst a canvas of white, he exhaled, his breath joining the wintry air in a fleeting dance before dissipating into the vastness.

The morning thus far had been a canvas of monotony, painted with the dull strokes of mundane tasks and the tedium of retail. Small sales, and even smaller talk. Yet here, atop the world, he found solace in the quiet solitude, away from the bustling commercial fervor infesting the mall below.

Below him, the parking garage buzzed with frantic energy. Frenzied shoppers scurried, laden with bags and the weight of their own expectations, each step weighed down by the looming pressure of last-minute presents. A woman peeked in one bag, and hugged her partner tightly, clearly excited by whatever material affection she'd somehow earned. Echoes of arguments and children's squabbles drifted up, punctuating the air with dissonant symphonies of irritation and stress.

What even was the point?

The door behind him creaked open, and Leonard's voice cut through the serenity.

"You about done? Yvette's been in the office, and I gotta get going on my break."

"Yeah, I'll be right down," he said as he flicked his stub of a cigarette into the vast expanse, watching it vanish amid the snowy canvas.

With a final glance toward the horizon, Ari savored the lingering traces of the morning sun, etching the image of this solitary respite against the cluttered backdrop of the season's frenzy. Reluctantly, he turned away, leaving behind the haven of quietude amidst the cacophony below.

>> >> <> << <<

Ari's lunch was at noon, and much to his dismay, that was not for a while. He sat at the register, and mindlessly input prices for a list of new products the store would be selling after the holiday season. Board games, some battery-operated talking plants, picture frames that seemed to float, a new brand of sex toys...

Not a bad price for the latter.

He glanced around the store, noting how empty this place looked around this time in sharp contrast to the normal. It was nice. Spender's quiet days were days like today. People were far more interested in buying the latest computer or other big thing that cost a fortune for whichever so-called loved one garnered enough of their attention that year to earn it. No one was really coming into their little odd shop. The holidays were boring and quiet here. He'd like to work at the book store down the way, or the hat store, where everything is quiet all the time.

His mind was wandering, really only because he kept thinking about the one kid who'd walked in with a girl some while ago. The two disappeared in the back section of the store and haven't quite come back yet, and it'd been about ten minutes. Maybe they got into the box of pens.

Ari mentally winced. The pens. He forgot to put out the pens.

Ari hurried down the aisles, and headed beyond the 'Adults Only' sign. The back section of the store was quiet; maybe he somehow missed those kids while he was busying himself at the register. Or maybe they stole something and snuck out. It was probably that. People stole from the store all the time; the thieves were usually people too embarrassed to come to the register to buy a sex toy.

The wolf inhaled deeply, taking in the distinct smells of the back area of the store. The air was heavy with the mix of rubber and leather clothing, along with a hint of sweetness from flavored lubricant. It was an unusual but strangely alluring combination. However, the back section wasn't just filled with sexual items and other risqué merchandise. One wall was lined with neon lights in different shapes, like a guitar and even a vagina.

Now that he thought on it, maybe the first one was actually shaped like a penis.

Ari glanced downward and found the box resting exactly where he'd left it. Inside lay the chocolate pens, his smirk hinting at their playful purpose -- used for adorning a partner's body in a rather, shall we say, intimate manner. It might get messy, but that's half the thrill, isn't it? With a grin, he unlatched the box, discovering an empty space meant for them. Carefully, he began arranging them onto the shelf.

After a few moments he realized he probably should have priced the damned things before putting them up. But that would involve trying to find the pricing gun. He pulled the pens off the display, placed them back in the box, and made his way back up to the register up front. After a few minutes of groping around for the device he came up empty.

Leonard probably had it.

He made his way over to the magazine section. If there was one thing he could rely on, it was Leonard's penchant for reading, though the material here was questionable at best.

"Labeler," Ari demanded, extending his hand out expectedly.

Leonard's gaze remained transfixed on the magazine he held. "Pricing gun."

"Yeah, whatever," Ari quipped, making a grabbing motion.

"Yvette's got it."

Ari slumped. "Noooooo," he whined. She'd been in the office for most of the morning. Everything had been going so well without her.

"Sorry. She needed it to start putting prices on some of the new stuff. Apparently, she doubted your ability to handle such a simple task."

"Just because I started putting good prices on the dragon-glass stuff in the window."

"Ten bucks?"

Ari paused. "Yeah. Not a bad price to pass up."

Leonard sighed, "Look, you want the pricing gun, go bug her, not me. I'm still on break. That new guy was supposed to show up a half hour ago. It's a good thing you're not the only late person around here."

Ari scowled, and went off in search of the last person he wanted to interact with. He found Yvette sitting in the office with headphones on. She was running the scanner across a few items at a time, while blowing gigantic pink bubbles with her gum, and just generally enjoying the moment. She looked calm, maybe if he asked really nicely...?

"Hey, Yvie?"

"Yup."

"Can I borrow that? I need to price the pens and stuff..."

Yvette glanced up at the wolf and quirked an eyebrow, as if to decide if an argument was worth the effort. After a moment, she shrugged, popped the bubble loudly in her mouth, and outstretched the item to him.

"Sure, I got some paperwork to do, anyway."

It was a Christmas miracle.

Ari nearly pranced toward the back of the store with the device, already inputting the object code and price, a very easy process after only two years working there. He turned to the first pen in reach, and rolled the price sticker onto the back. He repeated a few times until all the items already on the shelf were priced and accounted for. Now all he had to do was input the prices in the register.

On the way up the store radio switched to a song he enjoyed, and a smile flashed over his face for the first time all day. A little pop, a little punk, and a whole lot of bounce. The group was pretty new to the scene, but he was quickly enjoying them.

He began punching in the codes, humming along to the music. He was almost finished when he looked up and noticed a young man standing outside the store. He was alone, and seemed to be eyeing the merchandise through the window.

Ari couldn't help but take in his appearance. He let his hair run wild, pink spikes cascading down his back, accentuated by blond highlights. He had a lanky frame, and paired tight jeans and a rainbow belt with a band shirt that barely covered his stomach. His fur was that of sun-kissed honey, and had a thick and luxurious tail swishing behind him. He was like something out of a dream.

He glanced up at the store's sign, and then looked at the displays in the window, and then after a moment he came into the store. He walked in time with the beat of the song with a slight bounce in his step, and looked at the dragon figures on display.

A little pop, a little punk, and a whole lot of bounce.

Ari did his best not to seem too obvious, but the young man was simply captivating. He seemed around eighteen, wandering alone with a slightly lost expression, yet somehow perfectly at ease amidst the surroundings.

After entering the codes, Ari stole occasional glances at the young man who browsed the aisles. Leonard, as usual, remained engrossed in his book, completely unfazed. With a resigned sigh, Ari knew he was the one on duty. Adjusting his apron, he casually strolled over to the young man, aiming for a relaxed approach. "Hey there, everything going okay? Need any help?"

He turned, and Ari's heart stopped.

The boy's long lashes fluttered over his deep blue eyes, causing Ari to catch his breath. He let out a soft chuckle, crossed his arms and shifted his hips effortlessly. His voice was like honey, sweet and alluring. And those eyes... they were like pure pools of crystalline bliss

"Actually, I was pretty happy just looking at this figure."

Ari blushed. "My figure?"

"These little dragon figures. Did I really see them priced at ten dollars?" He glanced at Ari's nametag, and raised an eyebrow. "Arpee?"

He would get no response immediately; Ari couldn't help but stare into those beautiful eyes. It took a couple snaps of the boy's fingers in his face before Ari came back to reality.

Ari blinked a few times and rubbed the bridge of his nose, "I... I'm sorry, you just have..." He shook his head. "Right... so, anything in particular you're looking for?"

"Actually, no... I was just stalling for time because, well, I'm... kinda nervous..."

"Why would you be nervous? Looking for sex toys or somethin'?"

The kid blushed profusely. "No, I um... actually, well you work here... can you tell me where I can find a Miss Yvette? I wanted to tell her I was sorry for being so late. The train I was supposed to take broke down..."

"You're the new guy?"

"Yeah, I guess you could say that..."

Ari stared for another couple seconds before another snap of the fingers made him apologize again.

"I'll take you to Yvie. She'll get you all fixed up, alright?"

"Thanks a lot," he said, walking alongside Ari toward the door to the lounge. "I mean, I saw the sign, and all the stuff... I thought it'd be awesome to work here, so I applied. I'm Ravi, by the way."

"Ari."

"Not Arpee?"

The two stopped in front of the lounge, Ari taking the moment to steel himself. She'd been in an uncharacteristically pleasant mood this morning, and he was probably about to ruin it.

"Hey Yvette?"

"What do you want? I'm busy!"

Yvette's voice echoed from above, drawing the attention of both boys. They looked up just in time to see her gracefully leaping from the top step of the ladder. Her gaze shifted from Ari to Ravi.

"Ahh, you must be the noobie. You're, like, two hours late."

Ravi wringed his hands in embarrassment. "Yeah, sorry, there wasn't another train, and I don't have a phone..."

Yvette waved her hand dismissively, clearly bored with the excuse. "It's whatever, the town is shit right now. I'll get you started with a schedule." She then turned to the ashen wolf before her.

Ari looked up from his fidgeting, slightly scowling at her, "What?"

"Don't take tone with me, kiddo. Go slap Leonard for me and tell him to start labeling the penis lights for me, Okay? They gotta get out now, and I gotta get him started."

"...Whatever."

Ari eventually made his way back to the front of the store, and finished inputting the codes so he could stock the pens on the shelf. How often the little tasks get interrupted. And people wonder why it takes so long to accomplish anything in retail.

He'd wisely brought the box of pens up front this time, and began labelling each one to ready them for display. Another song came over the radio, and he began humming along, his spirits improving as he bounced to the beat.

He started singing along absentmindedly, not even realizing at first another voice joined in the chorus. Ari turned to find the little blond wolf bouncing along next to him, thoroughly enjoying himself. The voice of an angel.

"Ah, sorry," Ravi laughed, suddenly realizing Ari was staring. "Couldn't help myself, I love this song. Yvette told me to ask you for the roster with the times on it?"

"Oh, right, sure..."

Ari dared not look at his eyes. He groped around the register without any luck, and proceeded to dive into the cabinet underneath the register table. He crouched down until it was in sight, grabbed it, and handed it to the other.

"There ya go."

"Awesome, thanks much, Ari." He said that, and bounced off, still singing, his cute little hips swaying in time to the music. Ari shook his head; he barely knew him and yet, he couldn't stop staring.

He shook his head, grabbed the box of pens, and finally finished his task of setting them on the display. He then glanced at the clock; already noon. It only took him the entire morning, no big deal? He made his way to the closet, pulled his coat out, and sneered at Leonard as he passed by.

"Headed to lunch?" came the obvious inquiry.

"Nope, a funeral."

"Enjoy."

"Have fun playing with your penis... lights," he smirked.

He crossed the threshold into the mall proper, and the mood instantly shifted. As much guff as he gave Spender's he appreciated the sanctuary it gave him amidst the mainstream conventions of the season. The air was thick with the typical tunes of the season, drowning out the bustling crowds as they clashed in their thrift-seeking quests. Everyone seemed feverish, frantically searching for last-minute treasures, each one battling for as much holiday joy as their meager credit lines could possibly afford.

Perhaps he leaned towards being a bit of a Grinch, but Ari couldn't find appreciation in the excess of the season. His gifts were modest yet significant, carrying personal meaning. However, after years of receiving impersonal gift cards and thoughtless gestures in return for his heartfelt efforts, he couldn't help but question the true essence of the season.

He heard a voice from inside the mall call something like his name, but he paid no mind to it. He sighed, again hearing something like his name. He turned this time, watching as little Ravi jogged up to him with a smile on his face.

The blond wolf bent over, his pink spikes cascading down into his face while he caught his breath. "Ignore me why don't you..." he huffed out.

"I ignore everyone on good days, don't feel special."

Ravi laughed. "Yvette said it was alright if I came back in an hour so I could sort my shift hours and stuff. So, uh... where ya goin'?"

"To this place to get something to eat..."

Ari paused, looking down at Ravi. His eyes still had that eerie, but warm touch of blue as they stared. Ari was able to continue without the snapping fingers.

"You, uh... wanna come?"

"I'd love to!"

Ari smiled and sat on the bench to wait for the light rail. Ravi sat next to him gleefully and lightly tapped his foot to some beat in his head. Ari couldn't help but smile as the train arrived, and they both boarded. The two sat near the back, and got off a few stops later at a diner. Ari led them over to one of the far back tables, away from the other people, and watched as Ravi sat in the seat in front of him.

Ravi looked around the place excitedly, his blue eyes darting about, teeth still chattering slightly from the cold. Ari looked at him amusedly for a few moments, thoroughly captivated by his companion.

"You look excited."

"I've only been in a restaurant like this a few times... It's nice and warm..."

"How old did you say you were?"

"I'm twenty-one. Going to be twenty-two in March."

Ari hummed in slight amusement. The waitress approached their table, her polite voice requesting their order. Ari replied with something he'd said countless times before, a phrase so routine it felt almost automatic, lacking any real thought behind it.

"And you, sir?"

"Oh... I... I don't have any money..."

Ari glanced up from his current state with his hands shielding his eyes. "What?"

"W... well, I didn't bring any money with me..."

Ari shook his head gently, still all but listening to the conversation. "It's cool, go ahead, get whatever you want, I'll pay for it."

Ravi's eyes brightened, if possible. "Really?"

"Yeah, sure."

"Oh, okay then... I think I'll have a..."

And that's when Ari completely shut out the world. It had become second nature to him, drifting away from reality and into memories of happier times. Like the night when Iggy and his boytoy visited and they played drunken charades. Of all things Ari had to mime out 'Jack Daniels' and even now, a simple jacking motion can make Iggy burst into laughter.

His attention drifted back to Ravi before him, who was looking out the diner window with his chin resting in his hand. Noon brought about a shining sun through the window, casting lengthy shadows upon his furred countenance, his crystalline eyes shimmering in the spotlight. Even this wasn't enough to melt the snow-covered city as flurries gently danced from the sky once again.

Ravi's eyes were half-lidded, lost in his own thoughts, perhaps feeling tired after a frigid morning of traveling across town from parts unknown. For as little as he's known him this demeanor seemed rather uncharacteristic of him. He had a checked scarf draped over his shoulders, falling loosely over his front. Ari couldn't make out the band on his shirt, but it was a simple design in whites and reds against a black background. For a moment Ari wondered how someone so bright and jubilant could even remain so serious, as if etched into time itself.

Moments later their attention was brought back to reality as their waitress returned with their meals, placing a platter of chicken tenders and fries before the ashen wolf. Another moment, and a burger and fries were set before the blond.

Ravi smiled weakly and laughed, "I'm sorry, I don't mean to be such a mooch. I haven't had a burger in ages."

"It's alright, I don't mind," Ari shrugged before nibbling a fry. "The company is kind of nice. Usually I'm just here by myself, and I pay and leave."

"No one at all?"

"Well, my best friend Iggy... But he's usually preoccupied with his little boytoy..."

Ravi blushed. "So you're usually alone then."

Ravi was one hell of a listener. Wasn't tuning him out or anything...

"Well, yeah, but it's no big deal. They're just nuts about each other. Iggy's been banging him ever since he started at the club he works at."

"So... Iggy's gay?"

Ari paused. "Yeah, I guess," he shrugged, "I never really thought about it, and he never really made a big deal out of it, either. Just one day he starts coming by with this little nympho attached to his hip." He took a moment to nibble a bite before continuing. "I stopped trying to figure him out. He is what he is."

"Hmm..." Ravi observed, his lips forming a contemplative line. After a brief pause, he tentatively inquired, "So, what about you, Ari?"

Ari quirked his eyebrow. It was almost as if Ravi expected some dramatic reaction.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, I guess... I guess it's easier to just ask. Do you like girls, or boys, or...?"

Ari blushed, and turned away, placing his own chin in his hand. "Well, ah, I've been with girls... but not really the other way around... by which I mean with guys..." he blushed again. "Not that there's anything wrong with it, I mean, I guess I'd be flattered, but..." He started scratching the back of his neck; he hadn't expected such a serious question.

"Hey, hey, it's no big deal if you don't know," Ravi interjected. "I just... was curious..."

"I know what I am," Ari stated plainly.

Ravi faltered. "Oh... okay. Sorry."

"I've never really thought about it." He then turned to the pink-haired fluffball. "What about you?" He had a feeling he already knew the answer.

"Like I could even pretend to be straight," he laughed, gesturing to himself with a most flamboyant flourish.

"That explains a lot," Ari smirked.

The two continued eating in silence, Ravi particularly enjoyed his meal, almost as if he hadn't eaten in ages. Ari glanced up to see Ravi staring into his own silvery eyes, bedazzlement creeping over him.

"You know," Ravi smiled, "your eyes are nice, too."

>> >> <> << <<

The two whiled away the rest of their lunchtime in animated chatter, discussing music, literature, and weaving through old high school tales. Ari relished the way Ravi blushed with enthusiasm, while Ravi found solace in Ari's unexpectedly soothing voice. Small talk, as it turns out, sometimes leads to big, profound, enjoyable conversation. It was a shame they had to head back to the mall already, and return to work.

After settling the bill, they boarded the light rail, and continued their little chatter. Ravi wasn't much of a drinker, but enjoyed the same music as Ari. Ari wasn't normally much for a burger and fries, but spoke of his own love of cooking that he'd simply have to have Ravi sample at some point. As the crisp air intermingled with their hearty conversation, they found their arms effortlessly entwining around one another, as if they'd known each other for ages.

Returning to Spender's, they found Leonard occupied at the front register, surrounded by a cluster of glass figurines. Ravi stepped over, and gently cradled a glass dragon, his eyes studying it as if it held untold secrets.

"That's the second time today. Got a fetish for dragons or something?" Ari inquired bemusedly.

Ravi chuckled, gently placing the figurine down. "You can say that... not like a sexual thing. They're just... cool. Wild, free. I love 'em."

As Ari shed his coat, he turned and met Yvette's glower, prompting a startled yelp.

"Ari!" she snapped.

"What?" he shot back.

Her smirk grew. "You're on the closing shift with your new buddy there," she declared, motioning toward Ravi. "Five o'clock to eleven and you have to stay late to help pack up."

"Closing shift?" Ari protested. "But I'll be half-asleep by then!"

"Drink some coffee, champ!" Yvette retorted. "You're showing Ravi the ropes."

He looked over at his pink-haired counterpart, who appeared to be cringing inwardly. He sighed; it wasn't all as bad as he was making it out to be. Their second shift was a mixed bag -- more tasks, more customers, and more perpetual activity.

And best of all, no Yvette.

"When do I start?" Ari asked, resignation heavy in his voice.

"Tomorrow," Yvette replied.

Their attention turned to Leonard, immersed in yet another dubious magazine. Ari sighed, joining him at the counter, with Ravi mirroring his stance.

"Well, looks like we've got the newbie," Leonard observed, his gaze fixed on the magazine.

"Seems that way," Ari agreed.

Ravi let out a soft, low chuckle as he was escorted by Yvette for further training. As they walked away Ari couldn't help but watch with amusement as Ravi's hips swayed in a cute and alluring manner, his fluffy tail almost hypnotic in its movements. He disappeared into the depths of the store, leaving behind a promise of excitement and anticipation.

Ari grinned stupidly. Maybe second shift won't be so bad.