[TF] Uncharted Territory 08/28
Aug. 15th, 2019 06:25 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
dracoqueen22Title: Uncharted Territory
Universe: Transformers AR, Flights of Fancy AU
Characters: Blurr/Starscream, Original Human Character(s), Sari Sumdac, Miko Nakadai, Ratchet, Megatron, Rodimus, Red Alert, Others
Rated: M
Enticements: Sexual Content, Harpy/Human Sexual Content
Summary: There were a lot of things Blurr knew with great certainty: his path, his future, his happiness. Then Starscream swooped into his life and turned everything upside down in the best possible way.
Uncharted Territory
Chapter Eight
Blurr continued through his last year as an undergraduate at Kaon University, still with very little clue about his future but with no choice except to move forward. The only true change was that he had a pretty harpy as a companion now, instead of spending most of his time alone or with one night stands.
A gorgeous harpy, by the way, who was quickly turning into a temptation Blurr should have found much easier to resist.
Starscream visited with more regularity, showing up on Friday afternoons and not leaving until Sunday morning, giving Blurr the time he needed to do his schoolwork. Or at least the bit he bothered to pay attention to. It was nice to have a guest every weekend, rather than spending them alone.
People became accustomed to Blurr and his harpy shadow.
His much fluffier harpy shadow.
Starscream hadn’t been joking when he said he’d only poof out more. His winter coat came in full, doubling the mane around his shoulders and throat, thickening the feathers on his sides and thighs. His arm wings even had longer, thicker feathers. It all made him appear very… robust.
By the time they had their first snow fall, Starscream was fully winterized, and Blurr marveled at how soft and warm he looked. He was a bit jealous because he had to kit himself out in heavy boots, gloves, and a peacoat just to feel marginally warm. He hated winter.
Didn’t stop him from going for his morning run, however. He had to stay in shape. The winter qualifiers were coming up in a week or two, and he had to prove he was worth his scholarship. He was certain he’d qualify, just as he was sure he’d win at districts and regionals, but nationals? Only if he kept training as hard as possible.
And stop staying up late on the weekends with Starscream, watching bad Sci-Fi movies and binging on pastries, popcorn, and candy.
At least campus maintenance had been diligent in keeping the sidewalks and main thoroughfares thoroughly de-iced. Blurr could jog without worrying about slipping and breaking something important.
So he laced into his runners, popped his mp3 player into his pocket, tugged on his earbuds and left before the sun crested the horizon. The air was so cold it puffed from his lips in little gray bursts.
This was his favorite time to run. The chill invigorated him, though it went away as he warmed up, and campus was so quiet it was as if he had it all to himself.
Well, he nearly did. Autumnal Equinox was upon them and as such, most of the staff and students had gone home for the holidays. Those who had homes to welcome them anyway. Blurr stayed on campus. Not that he had much other choice. Even Rathi and TJ had gone.
A rock medley blasted in his ears, the steady rhythm something he could really move to. Though pop was better for an energetic morning run, he was in a foul, rock mood this morning.
He hated the holidays. He couldn’t remember the last time he had a good one.
No, that wasn’t strictly true. Blurr could remember. He had strong, vivid memories of a happier time, before the hate and the rejection set in. Now holidays only reminded him of the joy he didn’t have anymore.
Holidays were for families!
What was the point if you didn’t have one?
Blurr growled and put on a burst of speed, hoping the burn in his calves, in his thighs, in his lungs, would chase away the rest. He focused on the sidewalk ahead of him, keeping watch for ice patches, and concentrated on the heavy beat of the music in his ears. It matched the rapid thuds of his heartbeat.
Hey dad, look at me. Think back and talk to me. Did I grow up according to plan?
Blurr didn’t know if the tightness in his chest was because of his pace, or the emotions trying to swallow him.
He ran harder.
And do you think I’m wasting my time doing things I wanna do? But it hurts when you disapprove all along.
Blurr stumbled and missed a beat, skidding to a halt in the middle of the sidewalk.
And now I try hard to make it, I just wanna make you proud. I’m never gonna be good enough for you.
He bent over, hands on his thighs, and tried to breathe. Everything ached, and his face was hot. He squeezed his eyes shut. He shoved a hand into his pocket, fumbling with the mp3 player, hands shaking as he sought the skip button.
Can’t pretend that I’m alright. And you can’t--
The song skipped. Blurr sighed as shuffle careened right into something a little less emotional. He braced his hands on his thighs again and focused on his breathing.
He really hated the holidays.
Something grabbed his hips from behind.
Blurr startled and might have shrieked, almost jumping out of his skin. His eyes snapped open as he lurched forward, away from whatever had touched him. He whipped a glare over his shoulder, fist cocked, ready to fight.
Starscream. Of course it was Starscream. It was always Starscream.
Blurr ripped off his earbuds. “Stop doing that!” His hands clenched into fists, and his heart pounded a mile a minute. “Primus, Starscream! Are you trying to give me a heart attack?”
Starscream reared back and blinked. “I called your name twice.” He frowned. “You’ve been standing here awhile. Are you ill?”
Blurr sucked in a slow breath and turned toward Starscream. “I’m fine.” He swept a hand through through his hair, pushing it back from his forehead. “What’re you doing here? It’s Tuesday.”
“I can’t come on a Tuesday?” Starscream folded his arms. “Thought I’d surprise you.”
“Yeah. Well. I’m surprised.” Blurr shoved his earbuds into his pocket. He felt unsteady, off his game, and as happy as he was to see Starscream, this wasn’t a good time.
Starscream tilted his head. “Are you sure you’re okay? You seem paler than usual, and I’m pretty sure that’s not good for humans.”
“I’m always pale.” Blurr shifted his weight as his legs started to hurt. The cooldown was such a bitch.
He winced and leaned down to rub at his calves. The morning chill was no longer as welcome as it had been.
“Am I bothering you again?” Starscream asked. His voice was very small, and Blurr hated the sound of it. Not because Starscream had an awful voice, but because it was a familiar tone.
It was the tone of someone afraid of the consequences.
Blurr shook his head. “No, you’re not. I swear.” He straightened and tried to smile, hoping it wasn’t lopsided. “I’m just…. Never mind. It doesn’t matter. I’m glad you’re here. Could use the company.”
Starscream nibbled on his bottom lip. “Company I understand.” He looked around as he lowered his arms. “I know it’s early, but normally I see a lot more humans around. Where is everyone?”
Blurr stretched his arms over his head and headed back the way he came. No point in finishing his route now. “Holiday break. Everyone’s gone home for the Autumnal Equinox. Well. Mostly everyone.”
“Why didn’t you?” Starscream fell into step beside him, hands behind his back, fluffy feathers trailing across the cold ground.
“I don’t go home,” Blurr said.
“Why not?”
“Because.” He really didn’t want to get into the whole sob story. “Anyway, everyone else is gonna be eating good, but I was planning on ordering some takeout. You’re welcome to join me for hot cocoa and vegetarian lo mein.”
Starscream’s would be vegetarian. Blurr planned on ordering as much seafood as they could pile on there. Plus the crab rangoon. Normally he’d go for steak or chicken, but the smell of both tended to bother Starscream. Fish he was all right with, like the bird he was.
“As long as I’m not a bother.”
Blurr looked up at Starscream, nudging a fluffy arm with his own. “Never.”
It would be nice to have company. Friendly company at that. It was either that or wallow in his own self-pity, crying over animated fairy tales while he drowned his emotions in whatever sweet treat he could get his hands on. He still had those bottles of whiskey as well, just to keep the memories at bay.
How kind of Starscream to save him.
“Then I’m glad I came early,” Starscream said in a brighter tone. “I don’t know the human holidays, but I do know that no one should ever spend any holiday alone, no matter what it is.”
Blurr smiled. “I’m glad you came, too.”
It was the Primus-given truth.
They returned to Blurr’s dorm. The entire complex was quieter since the majority of the on-campus residents had booked it back home. Blurr’s footsteps echoed in the hallways; they didn’t have to wait for the elevator. No one manned the front desk. It would be eerie, if Blurr wasn’t used to it.
“Welcome back to my humble abode,” Blurr said as he unlocked his room and gestured Starscream inside. “You know the drill.”
“What drill?”
“It’s a turn of phrase.” Blurr chuckled and tossed his keys into the small bin he kept near the door. They landed with a clang amid pocket lint and pocket change. “It means you can make yourself at home. Pick a movie or two. I’m going to change.”
He heard the distinct fwump! as Starscream tossed himself onto Blurr’s single. “Can I watch?”
Blurr stuck his head out of the standing wardrobe, where he’d been digging out something not soaked in sweat. “Watch what?”
Starscream grinned, showing far too much teeth. “You change. What do you change into? Do humans shed their skins and morph like caterpillars?”
Heat flooded Blurr’s face. “Change my clothes,” he said with a roll of his eyes. “You know good and well what that means.” He stuck his head back into the wardrobe to hide his blush. Otherwise Starscream would call him a tomato again.
“True. Still doesn’t answer my question though.”
Blurr almost dropped the pajama bottoms he’d pulled out. “No, you can’t watch me.”
“Why not?”
“Because now it’s…” Blurr searched for the right word and struggled to find one that fit. “Weird,” he finally decided. “Why did you have to ask anyway?”
“Humans are interesting.”
Blurr peeled out of his active pants and slipped into his sweatpants behind the safety of the wardrobe door. “I’ll buy you a medical textbook,” he said as he pulled off his tank and sweatshirt, too.
“It’s not the same,” Starscream muttered.
Blurr could have sworn he sounded like he was pouting.
He leaned out of the wardrobe and sure enough, Starscream had that cute pout on his lips, even as he sprawled over the bed, staring in Blurr’s direction. There was something intense in the look. Something Blurr couldn’t define.
Blurr grabbed the first t-shirt he laid fingers on and tugged it over his head. He closed the wardrobe with his hip as a chill prickled his skin. Damn dorm managers dropped the temperature since they assumed no one would be sticking around over the holidays.
“Did you pick a movie?” Blurr asked.
Starscream sat up and started fussing with the blankets and pillows, making something of a couch out of the low-slung bed. “No. I reserved that honor for you. Surprise me with something good.”
Blurr crouched in front of the cabinet where he stuffed anything he considered entertainment. “Good as in award-winning or good as in worth watching?” Though the two weren’t necessarily mutually exclusive.
“Worth watching.”
“Still want cocoa?”
“If you think I’ll like it.”
Blurr plucked an action flick from the case and stood up. “I know you will, Mr. Sweet Tooth,” he teased as he put the case on top of the DVD player and switched gears to making the cocoa.
It was only the instant powder stuff, but it was better than nothing. Blurr couldn’t afford to rent one of the apartments, so he had to settle for whatever he could make in the microfridge or when he wanted to spend time in the communal kitchen. The latter wasn’t his first choice though.
The moment he started cooking, fellow dormmates started appearing out of the woodwork, drawn by the good smells. They all wanted to bum a bite or a bowl or a plate and they wheedled and offered all kinds of things. Damn scavengers.
“So what kind of holiday is it?” Starscream asked as Blurr filled two mugs with water from the tap and popped them into the microwave.
“Umm, it’s one of the few global ones,” Blurr explained. He pulled out marshmallows and cool whip from the fridge. “The Autumnal Equinox is a harvest celebration, I guess. You’re supposed to give thanks for everything you have. It’s non-secular but everyone knows it.”
“Non-secular?”
“That means it’s not based on a religion.”
The mugs danced in the microwave, like they were chasing each other, as they circled on the revolving plate. Blurr’s bright blue mug had white clouds on it, and Starscream’s black mug with Batman on it.
The bed rustled as Starscream shifted around, still fussing with the blankets and pillows. He dragged out more from beneath the bed. Blurr kept all the spares there, especially for when Starscream stayed over and Blurr had to make a pallet on the floor.
“Are you religious?”
Blurr shook his head. “Not really. I mean, I’m sure there’s something out there, but I don’t think it’s anything that we already worship. Or maybe it’s a combination of them all. I don’t really know.” He leaned a hip against the wall near the sink, waiting for the microwave to finish. “What about you? Do harpies have a god?”
“Depends on what you mean by god.” Starscream lounged back against his mound of pillows, looking both comfortable and fluffy. “We call on Adaptus and honor him yearly. But we don’t worship him.”
The microwave dinged. Blurr retrieved the cups, dumping a packet of instant cocoa into each. “Do you want marshmallows or whipped cream?”
“Can I have both?”
Blurr chuckled. “Sure.” Why did he bother asking? He should have known.
Cocoa prepared, Blurr joined Starscream on the bed, a little shiver passing through him. It was so damn chilly in here, but he hated having to layer up inside his own room. He’d catch a cold out of sheer stubbornness apparently.
“Marshmallows and whipped cream for you, just whipped cream for me.” Blurr handed Starscream the larger of the two cups, with a wider handle for thicker, longer harpy talons.
Blurr had been so delighted when he’d found that cup in a dollar store. Starscream had been complaining about how he couldn’t hold any of the others. He’d been fascinated by the symbol on it, too, and insisted Blurr tell him everything he knew about Batman, which admittedly wasn’t much. Blurr had never been into comics.
Watching the movies, however, had entertained Starscream for the better part of a day, enabling Blurr to get some much needed homework done.
“Mmm. Smells good.” Starscream all but stuck his nose into the cup, taking in a big whiff. “Thank you.”
Primus did he have to be so adorable? It wasn’t fair.
“It’s nothing special.” Blurr shrugged. “Homemade stuff is a lot better, but this is a good substitute.”
Starscream grinned and looked at him, only to blink.
“You’re pointy,” he said.
Blurr blinked. “What?”
Starscream’s grin widened. He reached for Blurr and dragged a knuckle over Blurr’s chest, over his right nipple. “Pointy,” he said.
Blurr was too late to fight off a shiver, and couldn’t do anything about the shock of arousal that lashed through his body. He’d always been sensitive there, and now was no exception.
Blurr jerked back and covered himself with his arm, feeling like a woman who’d had her swimsuit ripped off by some asshole. “I’m cold,” he snapped, and damn if he didn’t blush. “That’s normal.”
“Is it?” Starscream cocked one of his feathery eyebrows, or whatever they were, and peered at Blurr’s chest. His face was within inches of it. “Really? Why?”
“I don’t know. I’m not a doctor. It just happens.” Starscream’s curiosity was going to be the end of him. There was only so much unintentional teasing Blurr could take. “Now scoot over. I need some of that blanket.”
“Because you’re cold.” Starscream wriggled but didn’t make anything that could be construed as room for Blurr. “Well, I’m quite warm.” He held out an arm of very fluffy feathers. “Truce?”
Starscream looked up at Blurr with what had to be the most innocent expression the harpy had in his arsenal. All bright eyes and soft smile and sincerity, and Blurr melted inside every time.
He knew, logically, Starscream didn’t mean anything by it. He didn’t know what a nipple was, or how it could be sensitive, or what touching it would do to Blurr. Logic didn’t mean anything to Blurr’s dick, however, which twitched with interest from the casual touch.
Blurr sighed. “Let me grab the remote first.” He also needed to dim the lights. It was early enough he might even slip into a nap if he wasn’t careful.
Necessities retrieved, Blurr returned to the bed-turned-couch and slid into the cocoon beside Starscream, who promptly pulled Blurr into the cradle of his body. He was quite toasty, like sliding between a goosedown comforter and an electric blanket.
“There! Nice and warm,” Starscream said as his hand cupped Blurr’s opposite shoulder, keeping him tucked next to Starscream. “Play the movie now?”
“Yeah. Sure.” Blurr was ridiculously glad his voice didn’t shake, given how fast his heart was beating. Starscream smelled so good, sweet like fruit and with a faint whiff of something else, like mineral oil or a waterfall.
Blurr pressed play, tucked the remote between them, and focused on his steaming hot cocoa. His mound of whipped cream was swiftly melting, and he took a big sip as the opening trailers started to play.
He didn’t bother to skip them. Starscream liked watching the trailers because they helped him figure out other things he might want to see. TV and movies still fascinated Starscream, and Blurr was invested in finding the things which excited Starscream.
Could he help it if his feathery friend was so darned adorable?
Blurr relaxed into the warmth and comfort Starscream offered. This was quickly shaping up to be the best Autumnal Equinox he’d had since he’d left home. He wasn’t alone. He had good company. He was warm.
It was very nice.
Blurr licked the whipped cream from the rim of the cup and drank more, the cocoa doing much to chase the rest of the chill from his body. Beside him, Starscream seemed split focused between the cocoa and the television, though every time he took a sip, he made a pleased sound in his throat.
Blurr chuckled quietly.
“What?” Starscream asked, turning to look at him.
Darn his bird-like hearing. “Nothing. You like the cocoa?”
“I do.” Starscream snuggled closer to Blurr, his eyes so bright and warm, even as his grin turned mischievous. His exhales puffed warm against Blurr’s cheek. “You do, too. I can tell.” Flashes of light from the movie reflected across his face.
“Oh? How’s that?” Blurr asked.
“It’s all over your face.” Starscream laughed. “Literally I mean.”
Blurr’s face reddened. “Really?” He scrubbed at the corner of his mouth with his free hand. “Did I get it?”
Starscream chuckled, and really, when had he gotten so close? When had his eyes gotten so big and the warmth of his chocolate-scented exhalations so near? When had their cuddle for warmth turned into something closer to an embrace?
“Not all of it,” he murmured. “Let me help.”
Help?
Starscream’s tongue curled over the corner of Blurr’s mouth in a soft, wet lick. Blurr’s brain stuttered and flatlined, his eyes rounding.
Blurr stilled, swearing he felt the brush of Starscream’s lips over his cheek. Starscream so close was blazing hot, and it was dizzying. Blurr’s breath caught in his throat. His heartbeat thudded in his ears, his dick giving a twitch of prurient interest.
“There,” Starscream said, his voice oddly hushed. “I got it.”
It took several tries, several dry swallows, before Blurr could make his voice work. “You… You...”
Starscream’s gaze dropped away, his hand trembling where it cupped Blurr’s shoulders. He made as if to pull back, his fingers slipping away from Blurr. “I overstepped, didn’t I? Sorry, I shouldn’t have--”
“Do it again.” Blurr licked his lips, his heart pounding so hard it seemed to stick in his throat. “I-- I mean, for real this time.” He turned into Starscream, putting their faces tantalizingly close. “Please.”
Starscream’s mouth opened as though he was going to say something before he thought against it. Clunk went the mug as it was nudged to the nightstand before Starscream gently cupped Blurr’s face with his hand, so mindful of his talons.
Anticipation coiled like anxiety and need inside of Blurr. Rationality screamed at him, and hope throbbed a fast beat. Starscream’s mouth fell over his, lips a gentle pressure, and all traces of unease washed away.
Blurr sighed into the kiss, shaky as it was, and moved his lips against Starscream’s, so soft, not alien at all. Very much like kissing a human, warm and sweet, like chocolate and whipped cream. Chaste, for all of that, without so much as a tongue even. In a moment over far too quickly, Starscream’s lips retreated. Pride kept Blurr from chasing them. Starscream’s forehead pressed to his, the fluff of his face feathers tickling Blurr’s skin.
“Was that okay?” Starscream’s words were a puff of warmth over Blurr’s lips.
Blurr drew in a shaky breath. “I don’t know,” he said. He licked his lip, savoring the taste of Starscream lingering on them. “I think I need a couple more kisses just to be sure.”
Starscream hummed a small laugh. “Easiest thing to do,” he murmured, and closed his mouth over Blurr’s again.
Blurr melted into the kiss, his insides tightening into a hot coil of excitement at the first unsteady touch of a tongue. It felt barely different than a human’s, slightly rougher, definitely longer, but not at all offputting.
The kiss deepened and multiplied, kiss after kiss, their bodies coming together, Blurr awkward as he still held the stupid mug of cocoa. He felt every press of Starscream’s lips, every puff of unsteady breath, every tickle of Starscream’s feathers.
Starscream made this cute sound in his throat as his tongue touched Blurr’s again. He cradled Blurr so carefully, the care making Blurr’s heart flutter with affection.
Starscream retreated, and Blurr caught himself from giving his lips chase. Heat flooded his face, and his thoughts crashed one into the other.
“Still okay?” Starscream asked, barely above a whisper.
“More than,” Blurr admitted, and boy, was his voice shaky. “I’ve thought about doing that for weeks, and I felt like an idiot for thinking it.”
Starscream leaned back to peer into Blurr’s face. “You wanted to kiss me?”
“Yeah.” Blurr tilted his head into Starscream’s hand. “But I was scared of what that meant, and scared to take that chance, so I never tried. Just shows you’re braver than me.”
“Not as much as you’d think.” A shadow passed through Starscream’s eyes before he leaned in for a tickling nuzzle.
“Brave enough.” Soft fuzziness brushed over Blurr’s cheeks, and if he could purr, Blurr knew he would have.
But what did it mean? Did Starscream want Blurr in all the ways Blurr’s dreams had been haunting him with? Were they dating? Was that even possible?
Was there more?
Blurr’s insides fluttered. Starscream’s cheek felt soft against his, and there was something affectionate in the nuzzle. Questions gnawed at the back of his mind, and he knew he couldn’t do anything more until he addressed them.
“So…” He licked his lips and curled into Starscream’s feathery embrace. He wanted to stay here. Possibly forever. “What happens now? I mean, are we…?”
“We are what we are.” Starscream’s lips brushed over Blurr’s forehead. “And as for next, I do still want to see what movie you picked for us. And drink my cocoa. It would be a shame to waste it.”
Blurr chuckled. “All right. We can do that.” He dug around in the blankets for the remote, fumbling for several moments as his hands wouldn’t stop shaking. “And the rest we can just play by ear.”
“Sounds perfect.”
Yes. It did.
And perfect it was.
All they did was snuggle.
They drank their cocoa, Starscream’s impossibly long tongue licking both mugs clean and giving Blurr unpure thoughts. He squirmed next to Starscream, and Starscream gave him a knowing look. Which made Blurr wonder if Starscream could smell his arousal.
Or maybe the looks were because of the bulge in Blurr’s sweatpants, which was not all that subtle.
The movie ended, and Blurr had to force himself out of their cozy nest to switch the disc to something else, a comedy at Starscream’s behest. Then he dove back into the blankets and Starscream tugged him into an embrace with no hesitation. Blurr rested with his head on Starscream’s chest, listening to the steady thump-thump of his core.
It had a different rhythm than a human heartbeat. Deeper somehow. A bit slower, too.
It lulled Blurr right into a nap, even with Starscream’s raspy chuckles spilling over his head from the movie. He felt…
Well, Blurr felt content. And he hadn’t felt that in quite a long time.
It was a little strange to find himself comfortable in the arms of a harpy. And maybe the simmering arousal was weird, and the taste of Starscream on his lips was downright obscene, but at the moment, Blurr couldn’t care.
He’d forgotten what this felt like. Being wanted.
He wanted to hold onto it for as long as he could. But even if it went no further, even if it was just this – friendship and warmth and cocoa kisses – he’d be satisfied. He wouldn’t be alone.
It would be enough.
***
Universe: Transformers AR, Flights of Fancy AU
Characters: Blurr/Starscream, Original Human Character(s), Sari Sumdac, Miko Nakadai, Ratchet, Megatron, Rodimus, Red Alert, Others
Rated: M
Enticements: Sexual Content, Harpy/Human Sexual Content
Summary: There were a lot of things Blurr knew with great certainty: his path, his future, his happiness. Then Starscream swooped into his life and turned everything upside down in the best possible way.
Chapter Eight
Blurr continued through his last year as an undergraduate at Kaon University, still with very little clue about his future but with no choice except to move forward. The only true change was that he had a pretty harpy as a companion now, instead of spending most of his time alone or with one night stands.
A gorgeous harpy, by the way, who was quickly turning into a temptation Blurr should have found much easier to resist.
Starscream visited with more regularity, showing up on Friday afternoons and not leaving until Sunday morning, giving Blurr the time he needed to do his schoolwork. Or at least the bit he bothered to pay attention to. It was nice to have a guest every weekend, rather than spending them alone.
People became accustomed to Blurr and his harpy shadow.
His much fluffier harpy shadow.
Starscream hadn’t been joking when he said he’d only poof out more. His winter coat came in full, doubling the mane around his shoulders and throat, thickening the feathers on his sides and thighs. His arm wings even had longer, thicker feathers. It all made him appear very… robust.
By the time they had their first snow fall, Starscream was fully winterized, and Blurr marveled at how soft and warm he looked. He was a bit jealous because he had to kit himself out in heavy boots, gloves, and a peacoat just to feel marginally warm. He hated winter.
Didn’t stop him from going for his morning run, however. He had to stay in shape. The winter qualifiers were coming up in a week or two, and he had to prove he was worth his scholarship. He was certain he’d qualify, just as he was sure he’d win at districts and regionals, but nationals? Only if he kept training as hard as possible.
And stop staying up late on the weekends with Starscream, watching bad Sci-Fi movies and binging on pastries, popcorn, and candy.
At least campus maintenance had been diligent in keeping the sidewalks and main thoroughfares thoroughly de-iced. Blurr could jog without worrying about slipping and breaking something important.
So he laced into his runners, popped his mp3 player into his pocket, tugged on his earbuds and left before the sun crested the horizon. The air was so cold it puffed from his lips in little gray bursts.
This was his favorite time to run. The chill invigorated him, though it went away as he warmed up, and campus was so quiet it was as if he had it all to himself.
Well, he nearly did. Autumnal Equinox was upon them and as such, most of the staff and students had gone home for the holidays. Those who had homes to welcome them anyway. Blurr stayed on campus. Not that he had much other choice. Even Rathi and TJ had gone.
A rock medley blasted in his ears, the steady rhythm something he could really move to. Though pop was better for an energetic morning run, he was in a foul, rock mood this morning.
He hated the holidays. He couldn’t remember the last time he had a good one.
No, that wasn’t strictly true. Blurr could remember. He had strong, vivid memories of a happier time, before the hate and the rejection set in. Now holidays only reminded him of the joy he didn’t have anymore.
Holidays were for families!
What was the point if you didn’t have one?
Blurr growled and put on a burst of speed, hoping the burn in his calves, in his thighs, in his lungs, would chase away the rest. He focused on the sidewalk ahead of him, keeping watch for ice patches, and concentrated on the heavy beat of the music in his ears. It matched the rapid thuds of his heartbeat.
Hey dad, look at me. Think back and talk to me. Did I grow up according to plan?
Blurr didn’t know if the tightness in his chest was because of his pace, or the emotions trying to swallow him.
He ran harder.
And do you think I’m wasting my time doing things I wanna do? But it hurts when you disapprove all along.
Blurr stumbled and missed a beat, skidding to a halt in the middle of the sidewalk.
And now I try hard to make it, I just wanna make you proud. I’m never gonna be good enough for you.
He bent over, hands on his thighs, and tried to breathe. Everything ached, and his face was hot. He squeezed his eyes shut. He shoved a hand into his pocket, fumbling with the mp3 player, hands shaking as he sought the skip button.
Can’t pretend that I’m alright. And you can’t--
The song skipped. Blurr sighed as shuffle careened right into something a little less emotional. He braced his hands on his thighs again and focused on his breathing.
He really hated the holidays.
Something grabbed his hips from behind.
Blurr startled and might have shrieked, almost jumping out of his skin. His eyes snapped open as he lurched forward, away from whatever had touched him. He whipped a glare over his shoulder, fist cocked, ready to fight.
Starscream. Of course it was Starscream. It was always Starscream.
Blurr ripped off his earbuds. “Stop doing that!” His hands clenched into fists, and his heart pounded a mile a minute. “Primus, Starscream! Are you trying to give me a heart attack?”
Starscream reared back and blinked. “I called your name twice.” He frowned. “You’ve been standing here awhile. Are you ill?”
Blurr sucked in a slow breath and turned toward Starscream. “I’m fine.” He swept a hand through through his hair, pushing it back from his forehead. “What’re you doing here? It’s Tuesday.”
“I can’t come on a Tuesday?” Starscream folded his arms. “Thought I’d surprise you.”
“Yeah. Well. I’m surprised.” Blurr shoved his earbuds into his pocket. He felt unsteady, off his game, and as happy as he was to see Starscream, this wasn’t a good time.
Starscream tilted his head. “Are you sure you’re okay? You seem paler than usual, and I’m pretty sure that’s not good for humans.”
“I’m always pale.” Blurr shifted his weight as his legs started to hurt. The cooldown was such a bitch.
He winced and leaned down to rub at his calves. The morning chill was no longer as welcome as it had been.
“Am I bothering you again?” Starscream asked. His voice was very small, and Blurr hated the sound of it. Not because Starscream had an awful voice, but because it was a familiar tone.
It was the tone of someone afraid of the consequences.
Blurr shook his head. “No, you’re not. I swear.” He straightened and tried to smile, hoping it wasn’t lopsided. “I’m just…. Never mind. It doesn’t matter. I’m glad you’re here. Could use the company.”
Starscream nibbled on his bottom lip. “Company I understand.” He looked around as he lowered his arms. “I know it’s early, but normally I see a lot more humans around. Where is everyone?”
Blurr stretched his arms over his head and headed back the way he came. No point in finishing his route now. “Holiday break. Everyone’s gone home for the Autumnal Equinox. Well. Mostly everyone.”
“Why didn’t you?” Starscream fell into step beside him, hands behind his back, fluffy feathers trailing across the cold ground.
“I don’t go home,” Blurr said.
“Why not?”
“Because.” He really didn’t want to get into the whole sob story. “Anyway, everyone else is gonna be eating good, but I was planning on ordering some takeout. You’re welcome to join me for hot cocoa and vegetarian lo mein.”
Starscream’s would be vegetarian. Blurr planned on ordering as much seafood as they could pile on there. Plus the crab rangoon. Normally he’d go for steak or chicken, but the smell of both tended to bother Starscream. Fish he was all right with, like the bird he was.
“As long as I’m not a bother.”
Blurr looked up at Starscream, nudging a fluffy arm with his own. “Never.”
It would be nice to have company. Friendly company at that. It was either that or wallow in his own self-pity, crying over animated fairy tales while he drowned his emotions in whatever sweet treat he could get his hands on. He still had those bottles of whiskey as well, just to keep the memories at bay.
How kind of Starscream to save him.
“Then I’m glad I came early,” Starscream said in a brighter tone. “I don’t know the human holidays, but I do know that no one should ever spend any holiday alone, no matter what it is.”
Blurr smiled. “I’m glad you came, too.”
It was the Primus-given truth.
They returned to Blurr’s dorm. The entire complex was quieter since the majority of the on-campus residents had booked it back home. Blurr’s footsteps echoed in the hallways; they didn’t have to wait for the elevator. No one manned the front desk. It would be eerie, if Blurr wasn’t used to it.
“Welcome back to my humble abode,” Blurr said as he unlocked his room and gestured Starscream inside. “You know the drill.”
“What drill?”
“It’s a turn of phrase.” Blurr chuckled and tossed his keys into the small bin he kept near the door. They landed with a clang amid pocket lint and pocket change. “It means you can make yourself at home. Pick a movie or two. I’m going to change.”
He heard the distinct fwump! as Starscream tossed himself onto Blurr’s single. “Can I watch?”
Blurr stuck his head out of the standing wardrobe, where he’d been digging out something not soaked in sweat. “Watch what?”
Starscream grinned, showing far too much teeth. “You change. What do you change into? Do humans shed their skins and morph like caterpillars?”
Heat flooded Blurr’s face. “Change my clothes,” he said with a roll of his eyes. “You know good and well what that means.” He stuck his head back into the wardrobe to hide his blush. Otherwise Starscream would call him a tomato again.
“True. Still doesn’t answer my question though.”
Blurr almost dropped the pajama bottoms he’d pulled out. “No, you can’t watch me.”
“Why not?”
“Because now it’s…” Blurr searched for the right word and struggled to find one that fit. “Weird,” he finally decided. “Why did you have to ask anyway?”
“Humans are interesting.”
Blurr peeled out of his active pants and slipped into his sweatpants behind the safety of the wardrobe door. “I’ll buy you a medical textbook,” he said as he pulled off his tank and sweatshirt, too.
“It’s not the same,” Starscream muttered.
Blurr could have sworn he sounded like he was pouting.
He leaned out of the wardrobe and sure enough, Starscream had that cute pout on his lips, even as he sprawled over the bed, staring in Blurr’s direction. There was something intense in the look. Something Blurr couldn’t define.
Blurr grabbed the first t-shirt he laid fingers on and tugged it over his head. He closed the wardrobe with his hip as a chill prickled his skin. Damn dorm managers dropped the temperature since they assumed no one would be sticking around over the holidays.
“Did you pick a movie?” Blurr asked.
Starscream sat up and started fussing with the blankets and pillows, making something of a couch out of the low-slung bed. “No. I reserved that honor for you. Surprise me with something good.”
Blurr crouched in front of the cabinet where he stuffed anything he considered entertainment. “Good as in award-winning or good as in worth watching?” Though the two weren’t necessarily mutually exclusive.
“Worth watching.”
“Still want cocoa?”
“If you think I’ll like it.”
Blurr plucked an action flick from the case and stood up. “I know you will, Mr. Sweet Tooth,” he teased as he put the case on top of the DVD player and switched gears to making the cocoa.
It was only the instant powder stuff, but it was better than nothing. Blurr couldn’t afford to rent one of the apartments, so he had to settle for whatever he could make in the microfridge or when he wanted to spend time in the communal kitchen. The latter wasn’t his first choice though.
The moment he started cooking, fellow dormmates started appearing out of the woodwork, drawn by the good smells. They all wanted to bum a bite or a bowl or a plate and they wheedled and offered all kinds of things. Damn scavengers.
“So what kind of holiday is it?” Starscream asked as Blurr filled two mugs with water from the tap and popped them into the microwave.
“Umm, it’s one of the few global ones,” Blurr explained. He pulled out marshmallows and cool whip from the fridge. “The Autumnal Equinox is a harvest celebration, I guess. You’re supposed to give thanks for everything you have. It’s non-secular but everyone knows it.”
“Non-secular?”
“That means it’s not based on a religion.”
The mugs danced in the microwave, like they were chasing each other, as they circled on the revolving plate. Blurr’s bright blue mug had white clouds on it, and Starscream’s black mug with Batman on it.
The bed rustled as Starscream shifted around, still fussing with the blankets and pillows. He dragged out more from beneath the bed. Blurr kept all the spares there, especially for when Starscream stayed over and Blurr had to make a pallet on the floor.
“Are you religious?”
Blurr shook his head. “Not really. I mean, I’m sure there’s something out there, but I don’t think it’s anything that we already worship. Or maybe it’s a combination of them all. I don’t really know.” He leaned a hip against the wall near the sink, waiting for the microwave to finish. “What about you? Do harpies have a god?”
“Depends on what you mean by god.” Starscream lounged back against his mound of pillows, looking both comfortable and fluffy. “We call on Adaptus and honor him yearly. But we don’t worship him.”
The microwave dinged. Blurr retrieved the cups, dumping a packet of instant cocoa into each. “Do you want marshmallows or whipped cream?”
“Can I have both?”
Blurr chuckled. “Sure.” Why did he bother asking? He should have known.
Cocoa prepared, Blurr joined Starscream on the bed, a little shiver passing through him. It was so damn chilly in here, but he hated having to layer up inside his own room. He’d catch a cold out of sheer stubbornness apparently.
“Marshmallows and whipped cream for you, just whipped cream for me.” Blurr handed Starscream the larger of the two cups, with a wider handle for thicker, longer harpy talons.
Blurr had been so delighted when he’d found that cup in a dollar store. Starscream had been complaining about how he couldn’t hold any of the others. He’d been fascinated by the symbol on it, too, and insisted Blurr tell him everything he knew about Batman, which admittedly wasn’t much. Blurr had never been into comics.
Watching the movies, however, had entertained Starscream for the better part of a day, enabling Blurr to get some much needed homework done.
“Mmm. Smells good.” Starscream all but stuck his nose into the cup, taking in a big whiff. “Thank you.”
Primus did he have to be so adorable? It wasn’t fair.
“It’s nothing special.” Blurr shrugged. “Homemade stuff is a lot better, but this is a good substitute.”
Starscream grinned and looked at him, only to blink.
“You’re pointy,” he said.
Blurr blinked. “What?”
Starscream’s grin widened. He reached for Blurr and dragged a knuckle over Blurr’s chest, over his right nipple. “Pointy,” he said.
Blurr was too late to fight off a shiver, and couldn’t do anything about the shock of arousal that lashed through his body. He’d always been sensitive there, and now was no exception.
Blurr jerked back and covered himself with his arm, feeling like a woman who’d had her swimsuit ripped off by some asshole. “I’m cold,” he snapped, and damn if he didn’t blush. “That’s normal.”
“Is it?” Starscream cocked one of his feathery eyebrows, or whatever they were, and peered at Blurr’s chest. His face was within inches of it. “Really? Why?”
“I don’t know. I’m not a doctor. It just happens.” Starscream’s curiosity was going to be the end of him. There was only so much unintentional teasing Blurr could take. “Now scoot over. I need some of that blanket.”
“Because you’re cold.” Starscream wriggled but didn’t make anything that could be construed as room for Blurr. “Well, I’m quite warm.” He held out an arm of very fluffy feathers. “Truce?”
Starscream looked up at Blurr with what had to be the most innocent expression the harpy had in his arsenal. All bright eyes and soft smile and sincerity, and Blurr melted inside every time.
He knew, logically, Starscream didn’t mean anything by it. He didn’t know what a nipple was, or how it could be sensitive, or what touching it would do to Blurr. Logic didn’t mean anything to Blurr’s dick, however, which twitched with interest from the casual touch.
Blurr sighed. “Let me grab the remote first.” He also needed to dim the lights. It was early enough he might even slip into a nap if he wasn’t careful.
Necessities retrieved, Blurr returned to the bed-turned-couch and slid into the cocoon beside Starscream, who promptly pulled Blurr into the cradle of his body. He was quite toasty, like sliding between a goosedown comforter and an electric blanket.
“There! Nice and warm,” Starscream said as his hand cupped Blurr’s opposite shoulder, keeping him tucked next to Starscream. “Play the movie now?”
“Yeah. Sure.” Blurr was ridiculously glad his voice didn’t shake, given how fast his heart was beating. Starscream smelled so good, sweet like fruit and with a faint whiff of something else, like mineral oil or a waterfall.
Blurr pressed play, tucked the remote between them, and focused on his steaming hot cocoa. His mound of whipped cream was swiftly melting, and he took a big sip as the opening trailers started to play.
He didn’t bother to skip them. Starscream liked watching the trailers because they helped him figure out other things he might want to see. TV and movies still fascinated Starscream, and Blurr was invested in finding the things which excited Starscream.
Could he help it if his feathery friend was so darned adorable?
Blurr relaxed into the warmth and comfort Starscream offered. This was quickly shaping up to be the best Autumnal Equinox he’d had since he’d left home. He wasn’t alone. He had good company. He was warm.
It was very nice.
Blurr licked the whipped cream from the rim of the cup and drank more, the cocoa doing much to chase the rest of the chill from his body. Beside him, Starscream seemed split focused between the cocoa and the television, though every time he took a sip, he made a pleased sound in his throat.
Blurr chuckled quietly.
“What?” Starscream asked, turning to look at him.
Darn his bird-like hearing. “Nothing. You like the cocoa?”
“I do.” Starscream snuggled closer to Blurr, his eyes so bright and warm, even as his grin turned mischievous. His exhales puffed warm against Blurr’s cheek. “You do, too. I can tell.” Flashes of light from the movie reflected across his face.
“Oh? How’s that?” Blurr asked.
“It’s all over your face.” Starscream laughed. “Literally I mean.”
Blurr’s face reddened. “Really?” He scrubbed at the corner of his mouth with his free hand. “Did I get it?”
Starscream chuckled, and really, when had he gotten so close? When had his eyes gotten so big and the warmth of his chocolate-scented exhalations so near? When had their cuddle for warmth turned into something closer to an embrace?
“Not all of it,” he murmured. “Let me help.”
Help?
Starscream’s tongue curled over the corner of Blurr’s mouth in a soft, wet lick. Blurr’s brain stuttered and flatlined, his eyes rounding.
Blurr stilled, swearing he felt the brush of Starscream’s lips over his cheek. Starscream so close was blazing hot, and it was dizzying. Blurr’s breath caught in his throat. His heartbeat thudded in his ears, his dick giving a twitch of prurient interest.
“There,” Starscream said, his voice oddly hushed. “I got it.”
It took several tries, several dry swallows, before Blurr could make his voice work. “You… You...”
Starscream’s gaze dropped away, his hand trembling where it cupped Blurr’s shoulders. He made as if to pull back, his fingers slipping away from Blurr. “I overstepped, didn’t I? Sorry, I shouldn’t have--”
“Do it again.” Blurr licked his lips, his heart pounding so hard it seemed to stick in his throat. “I-- I mean, for real this time.” He turned into Starscream, putting their faces tantalizingly close. “Please.”
Starscream’s mouth opened as though he was going to say something before he thought against it. Clunk went the mug as it was nudged to the nightstand before Starscream gently cupped Blurr’s face with his hand, so mindful of his talons.
Anticipation coiled like anxiety and need inside of Blurr. Rationality screamed at him, and hope throbbed a fast beat. Starscream’s mouth fell over his, lips a gentle pressure, and all traces of unease washed away.
Blurr sighed into the kiss, shaky as it was, and moved his lips against Starscream’s, so soft, not alien at all. Very much like kissing a human, warm and sweet, like chocolate and whipped cream. Chaste, for all of that, without so much as a tongue even. In a moment over far too quickly, Starscream’s lips retreated. Pride kept Blurr from chasing them. Starscream’s forehead pressed to his, the fluff of his face feathers tickling Blurr’s skin.
“Was that okay?” Starscream’s words were a puff of warmth over Blurr’s lips.
Blurr drew in a shaky breath. “I don’t know,” he said. He licked his lip, savoring the taste of Starscream lingering on them. “I think I need a couple more kisses just to be sure.”
Starscream hummed a small laugh. “Easiest thing to do,” he murmured, and closed his mouth over Blurr’s again.
Blurr melted into the kiss, his insides tightening into a hot coil of excitement at the first unsteady touch of a tongue. It felt barely different than a human’s, slightly rougher, definitely longer, but not at all offputting.
The kiss deepened and multiplied, kiss after kiss, their bodies coming together, Blurr awkward as he still held the stupid mug of cocoa. He felt every press of Starscream’s lips, every puff of unsteady breath, every tickle of Starscream’s feathers.
Starscream made this cute sound in his throat as his tongue touched Blurr’s again. He cradled Blurr so carefully, the care making Blurr’s heart flutter with affection.
Starscream retreated, and Blurr caught himself from giving his lips chase. Heat flooded his face, and his thoughts crashed one into the other.
“Still okay?” Starscream asked, barely above a whisper.
“More than,” Blurr admitted, and boy, was his voice shaky. “I’ve thought about doing that for weeks, and I felt like an idiot for thinking it.”
Starscream leaned back to peer into Blurr’s face. “You wanted to kiss me?”
“Yeah.” Blurr tilted his head into Starscream’s hand. “But I was scared of what that meant, and scared to take that chance, so I never tried. Just shows you’re braver than me.”
“Not as much as you’d think.” A shadow passed through Starscream’s eyes before he leaned in for a tickling nuzzle.
“Brave enough.” Soft fuzziness brushed over Blurr’s cheeks, and if he could purr, Blurr knew he would have.
But what did it mean? Did Starscream want Blurr in all the ways Blurr’s dreams had been haunting him with? Were they dating? Was that even possible?
Was there more?
Blurr’s insides fluttered. Starscream’s cheek felt soft against his, and there was something affectionate in the nuzzle. Questions gnawed at the back of his mind, and he knew he couldn’t do anything more until he addressed them.
“So…” He licked his lips and curled into Starscream’s feathery embrace. He wanted to stay here. Possibly forever. “What happens now? I mean, are we…?”
“We are what we are.” Starscream’s lips brushed over Blurr’s forehead. “And as for next, I do still want to see what movie you picked for us. And drink my cocoa. It would be a shame to waste it.”
Blurr chuckled. “All right. We can do that.” He dug around in the blankets for the remote, fumbling for several moments as his hands wouldn’t stop shaking. “And the rest we can just play by ear.”
“Sounds perfect.”
Yes. It did.
And perfect it was.
All they did was snuggle.
They drank their cocoa, Starscream’s impossibly long tongue licking both mugs clean and giving Blurr unpure thoughts. He squirmed next to Starscream, and Starscream gave him a knowing look. Which made Blurr wonder if Starscream could smell his arousal.
Or maybe the looks were because of the bulge in Blurr’s sweatpants, which was not all that subtle.
The movie ended, and Blurr had to force himself out of their cozy nest to switch the disc to something else, a comedy at Starscream’s behest. Then he dove back into the blankets and Starscream tugged him into an embrace with no hesitation. Blurr rested with his head on Starscream’s chest, listening to the steady thump-thump of his core.
It had a different rhythm than a human heartbeat. Deeper somehow. A bit slower, too.
It lulled Blurr right into a nap, even with Starscream’s raspy chuckles spilling over his head from the movie. He felt…
Well, Blurr felt content. And he hadn’t felt that in quite a long time.
It was a little strange to find himself comfortable in the arms of a harpy. And maybe the simmering arousal was weird, and the taste of Starscream on his lips was downright obscene, but at the moment, Blurr couldn’t care.
He’d forgotten what this felt like. Being wanted.
He wanted to hold onto it for as long as he could. But even if it went no further, even if it was just this – friendship and warmth and cocoa kisses – he’d be satisfied. He wouldn’t be alone.
It would be enough.
