Chapter Text
“Ha! Forget it.”
“Please, Lace. If I don't show up there with a date, my aunt is going to try setting me up with that fucking son-in-law of hers.”
“Listen, Rook. I adore you. You're funny, kind, and just the right amount of weird.”
“Thank you-?”
“But that isn't enough to spend an evening and a night with your basically mafioso family.”
“We're not the mafia. Just old money and lots of pride in meaningless shit.”
“You forgot the part with the eccentricities of the unfun kind.”
“Yeah, yeah.”
You sighed, leaning your head into your hand as you swirled the milkshake in the cup. Lace reached out to pat your shoulder reassuringly, then pulled out her phone.
“But. I won't leave you like this either. I've got a friend who might know someone who might just be crazy enough to be up for it.”
“That's a lot of mights, Lace.”
“Seems the best chance you have.”
You sighed again.
“Yeah. So… who?”
“Davrin.”
“Who would he know?”
“A nonbinary, no nonsense, risk-loving dragon nerd.”
You'd only met the guy twice - he and Lace weren't super close, but close enough for her to occasionally go to his games. But there he was, dropping to the seat next to you.
“There's no guarantee. But I'm willing to bet they'll at least listen.”
He smirked.
----- two days later -----
Unknown: This Icari De Riva?
Rook: Who's asking?
Unknown: Got your number from Davrin. Something bout needing a plus one for a weird family party?
Rook: Yeah, that's me.
Unknown: Name's Taash. I'm up to hear more.
Rook: Really?
Taash: Yeah.
Taash: Got time next week to meet up and talk?
Rook: Tuesday at three?
Taash: Gym time. Same time Wednesday?
Rook: I got class there. Thursday at ten?
Taash: Works.
Rook: Where?
Taash: There's a new cafe right across my gym I've been wanting to hit. Called Bronto Brew.
Rook: I've heard of it. Sounds good.
Taash: See you there.
----- Thursday, 10 AM -----
Rook: Okay, I'm here.
Rook: Want me to order something or wait?
Taash: Wait. I wanna check the options.
Taash: Bus ran late
Taash: Be there in 5
Rook: Take your time. I'm in a little booth at the wall.
Taash: Anything to look out for?
Rook: Dark hair, teal hoodie, vitiligo.
Taash: K
Rook: Who am I looking for?
----------
Your message remained without answer. But that left you even more time to picture. The name sounded Qunari, but you knew that their beliefs inspired far more people to names by now. Just like you'd met a Kossith named Chris last week.
Judging by that smirk on Davrin's face, and the fact they hit the gym… they probably were your type.
Really. What the fuck had you gotten int-
The door to the cafe opened with a slight jingle. The person who entered had to crouch down a little to do so, rising to their full height after.
Tall. Buff. One of their horns was broken, replaced by glittering green gemstone, face accentuated with golden jewelry and piercings. They wore a black tank top and cargo pants with a green flannel on top, sleeves folded up to reveal red rope tattoos decorating their arms.
And their eyes scanned the room until they met yours, at which point they held up their phone questioningly - and you nodded.
Fake dating? You wouldn't fucking mind to real date this one.
Taash crossed the room with big, confident steps, sliding into the booth across from you almost surprisingly smoothly for their physique.
“Hey.”
“Hi. Taash?”
“Yep. Do they do table service here?”
“Yes, I sent them away earlier. Said I was waiting for someone.”
You tossed them the menu - already having picked something for yourself. Taash scanned it quickly while you already saw the waiter approaching. He stopped at your table with a smile.
“What can I get you?”
Taash gestured to you.
“I'll take your chocolate cappuccino. With a pump of caramel, if you don't mind?”
“Not at all. And for you?”
“Black coffee.”
“That's all?”
“Yes, thank you.”
He nodded, then left - and you turned to your, for now, mostly enigmatic partner, who met your eyes and arched a brow.
“What's the idea?”
“I was thinking we'd get to know each other a bit. See if this could even work. Then make a plan.”
“Sure.”
“Though I'm a little bit desperate, so honestly…”
You sighed and shrugged. Taash leaned back in their seat.
“Can I ask why?”
Meeting their eyes, you sighed again.
“Why I'm going through the trouble to find a fake date instead of just not going or going alone?”
“Yep.”
“Because one, those parties are the only time of the year right now that I can see my grandma. I don't have the time or money for -”
“You don't have the money?”
“No. I turned down financial aid beyond what they're legally required to pay. I want to be able to handle myself.”
“Mh.”
“And if I went alone, at this point, the amount of “clock's ticking, deadname” would result in a load of discomfort and people trying to set me up with their children.”
“Within the family.”
“Yes. Family tree is huge and I'm adopted.”
Taash looks to the side.
“Wondered if you were. Elf in a noble human family?”
“Half-elf, actually. Traits didn't really come out until I was six, at which point my mom wasn't willing to start again and my dad loved me too much to even hear the argument.”
“At least someone.”
“Yeah. He's dead.”
“Shit. Sorry.”
They cleared their throat.
“What's the other reason?”
“Hm?”
“You said one.”
“Oh. Right. Two: Mayhem.”
Taash snorted and arched their eyebrow again. You chuckled.
“I may have donated a cousin's unique sculpture to a museum after he called me “half-knife” one too many times after doing so all my life.”
While their expression went a bit darker at the mention of that insult, you smiled.
“Of course, in his name. With a generous letter and all. He can't take it back without seeming like an ass, and he never found out it was me. It's the little things.”
They chuckled.
“Fun. Seems fair enough.”
There was a moment of silence - then both of you turned your attention to the waiter who brought your coffees. You leaned down to smell yours - not bad for sure. Taash took their steaming cup and lifted it to their lips, taking a sip without any bother in the world and humming.
“Hm. Had better, definitely had worse.”
“Do you always drink it black?”
“Usually yes. Always the first thing I order at a new place, though. Tells me if their base is shit or not.”
“Fun.”
“Friend of mine’s a huge coffee nerd. Got it from him.”
They snorted, and you chuckled.
“Yeah, I know someone like that too. Once told me to make him a coffee as black as his soul. The level of offense on his face when I gave him a cup of milk with a single drop.”
“Heh.”
With a smile, they took another sip of their coffee. You studied their features for a moment, then drank yourself again.
“You wanna trade questions? Not my favourite thing, but given the circumstances...”
“Sure.”
“Okay. Hm. Favorite thing about yourself?”
Taash chuckled.
“Actually a hard one. I like my piercings and tats a lot. Feeling good about my body in general. But I'm great with the person I've become over the last years, so.”
The smile on their face was genuine as they shrugged. And from the vibes, their answer didn't seem arrogant either. Just confident. And they nodded towards you, giving the question back without words.
“Currently? My hair. I've been through some phases with the cut and I'm finally happy with this one.”
“Suits you.”
“Thanks. Shitty question, but do any of your tattoos have meaning?”
“Nope. Just like the looks of it.”
“Well, that's all the meaning they need, really.”
“Exactly… hm. Boring question. What do you study?”
“Biomechanics. My dream is to design prosthetics at some point.”
“Neat.”
“Thanks. Same question?”
“I don't study. Got two jobs. Mainly as a firefighter, and I do some gender affirming workout sessions in the gym on the side.”
“Oh, that's fucking cool. Mind telling me more?”
“Stealing a question, eh?”
“Yes.”
Taash let out a short laugh.
“Never felt like studying, I hate sitting still. And well, I was a regular at the gym since I was a teen. They asked me if I wanted to do a course, so I thought for a while and suggested the trans thing, which they were cool with.”
“Ah.”
“Then the local firefighter crew had an open day, and it just felt right. Rest is history.”
“That's awesome.”
“How'd you get into studying that?”
“Always found it fascinating. My grandma has a prosthetic leg, and I was always looking over it as a kid. Eventually, she let me look at the old ones to take them apart, then at the spares. I knew it was meant when I moved here and my first roommate had a prosthetic leg too.”
“Sure get that.”
Taash thought for a moment. You let them, giving a “go ahead” motion - after all, you'd just asked two questions prior.
“What's with “Rook”? Davrin slipped.”
“Okay, that's a story. We were drunk and walking through the park, played some of the life sized chess. I might have accidentally kicked the rook off the pedestal when I tried leaning against it, and it broke. So I was the figure for the game. Next time we walk by, Lucanis called me out. Rest is history.”
“Wait, Lucanis?”
“Yeah. Goth disaster bisexual and huge coffee nerd?”
“That's Dellamorte alright. He the guy you talked about earlier?”
“Yes. Yours too?”
“Yep.”
You snorted.
“So, how many friends do we share?”
“That's your question?”
“Maybe. You know a Lace Harding?”
“Yep.”
“No way. That's why she smirked when Davrin talked about you.”
Taash chuckled.
“Neve Gallus?”
“Is that your question?”
“Maybe.”
You snorted, but then you nodded.
“She’s the former roommate. So we hold: we share some friends.”
“Wonder why we never met before.”
“Because the universe kept you to be my savior right now?”
Taash laughed softly.
“So we're doing this?”
“Yeah. One thing, though. Why are you up for helping? I mean… it's not really a great environment for queer people.”
The Qunari scratched their chin before drinking again.
“One: It's helping a sibling in the community. Two: Free stay in a mansion, all food I can eat, and the chance to mess with bigots? I've had worse deals.”
You nodded.
“I'll take it.”
Taash chuckled.
“Not sure how much that means given how desperate you are.”
Grinning, you lifted a hand and held your finger and thumb apart just a little. They let out a laugh, and you smiled.
“How much time do you have?”
“About another hour.”
You hummed.
“We can probably text each other more questions. Should rather make a plan, right?”
“Yep. So, how bigoted is your family?”
“Transphobic for sure. Racism’s in there too, and classism. At that - call me out on mine if you notice. I'm doing all I can to work on it. But they… if you go, I can't promise you won't be called slurs.”
Taash nodded.
“What's with homophobia?”
“A little less. It's more a “marriage is between man and woman”, but if you're gay, they don't antagonize you.”
“Mhm. How's the transphobia?”
“If they find out your assigned gender, they'll use those pronouns. Little understanding in general, more in a belittling way. Rigid gender roles with some of the older ones. Except for my grandma, she's great.”
They nodded again, then snorted, turning to the side.
“So far it's doable.”
You hummed.
“Then… what's our relationship? How did we meet, how long have we been a thing?”
“We met via friends. Obviously.”
Taash smirked. You let out a chuckle.
“And we've dated for… let's say four months?”
“Works with me. Want me to behave in a way they'll never ask you about a partner again?”
“No. Please. I don't want you to be forever laughingstock and feed into their stereotypes.”
“So we're really really faking it?”
“If you don't mind. I'd just pretend the breakup broke me hard next year or something.”
“Fair.”
Taash chuckled.
“How much PDA are we doing?”
“How much are you comfortable with?”
“Eh, I don't care. When I actually date someone, I'm pretty touchy. Wouldn't mind tapping into that.”
“I'm fine with that. Are we… uh. Gonna kiss?”
“Maybe. You good with it?”
You considered that for a moment.
“If you smoke, don't kiss me right after.”
“I smoke. Not often, but I do.”
“Okay. Should we... do a test run? Later?”
Taash's eyes flickered down to your lips, made you subconsciously lick them under that attention, then they nodded.
“Sure. Can't have us kissing to sell it and realise that doesn't work.”
“Exactly my thoughts. Oh, and… well, we'll be sharing a bed. There isn't a couch or anything in the guest rooms.”
“Do you move a lot?”
“No.”
“Then I'm good. Might get up at night to smoke.”
“Fine by me.”
Getting the details into order wasn't particularly strenuous - you seemed to have the same comfort level on most things. But everything did need communication, just so you could seem like you'd known each other for four months rather than the four weeks in which this party would happen.
“And, last question. Can I tell my grandma that you exist? She'd be unhappy if I brought a “partner” and didn't tell her.”
“Sure. She seems the only reasonable of the bunch so far.”
You couldn't help but laugh just a bit. Of all the words that would describe her, reasonable was the furthest from them. But, out of Taash's perspective… yeah. They leaned back a little and finished their second cup, this time some black tea with milk.
“You thought a lot about this, eh?”
“Yes. I did.”
“I get it. So… when's the date and all?”
“26th of December, through the 27th. We have to take the train in the morning, then we'll get a ride to the place. Gonna be there at about three, the party starts with dinner at five until about midnight, but some will stay longer, some less. Breakfast at eight to ten, then we'll leave.”
“Yeah. Text me all that again.”
“Will do. And don't worry about the bill here, I'm paying.”
“It's okay.”
“Taash, you're doing me a huge ass favour. Please.”
“M’kay. I won't argue with free drinks if you insist.”
With a smile, you went to the front and paid - with Taash waiting by the door and holding it open for you. You murmured a thanks as you passed them, stepping out into the crisp air of late autumn.
“You’ll head to the gym now?”
“Not exactly.”
“Oh, sorry.”
“No, I am. Just gonna kiss you before that.”
“Right. Out here?”
“Thought it'd be good to practice with an audience.”
There was a little smirk on their face when you turned around and it definitely suited them very well.
Taash stepped away from the café’s entrance to the area that'd be used for outside seating once it would be warmer again, and you followed, feeling your heart thump in your chest. But still you stood closer to them, giving them a smile and hesitantly wrapping your arms around their neck, going a little on your tiptoes - but that wasn't enough to reach them. They chuckled and bent down instead, carefully grabbing your waist before simply pressing their lips to yours.
Without ceremony.
Just a light, soft kiss, testing the waters. You kissed back, keeping it at the level it was. Not much more than a peck.
Still. It felt nice.
And you grinned a little when you both pulled back, seeing Taash nod.
“You ain't bad.”
“You neither.”
“I'll see you on the 26th. Text me with times and all?”
“And questions.”
“Sure. Bye, Rook.”
“See you, Taash.”
You couldn't stop the sigh of relief seeing them walk away. The prospect of that party had just gotten a lot less daunting.
----------
Rook: Did you choose your name or keep it?
Taash: More or less both. Nickname I've gone by for years, and Ataashi is Qunlat for Dragon
Rook: Neat. Davrin did say you're a dragon nerd.
Taash: Yep
Taash: You?
Rook: Icari was chosen. There's something poetic about my family's hopes flying too close to the sun, but honestly, I just played around and liked the sound.
Rook: Oh by the way if anyone at the party talks about Chiara that's supposed to be me.
Taash: Noted
Taash: Still gonna ask who the fuck they mean
Taash: Assholes
----------
Rook: I don't really know how to tell you this. Been meaning to do it earlier, but… I'm going to bring someone to the gathering on Christmas.
Grandma: Don't scare me with a start like this, Icari. Here I thought it was something important.
Grandma: I'm happy for you. Who is she/he/they?
Grandma: On second thought, no. Give me the surprise. I'll tell your aunt so she prepares the bed accordingly.
Grandma: How long did you keep this from me?
Rook: … 4 months.
Grandma: I'm burning your inheritance.
Rook: Will you consider donating it, at least?
Grandma: Send me a list of charities.
Grandma: Your cousin gifted me this dread awful locket and I need somewhere to get rid of the money I got for it.
Grandma: Don't worry, you're safe. You're still the only grandchild worth the title.
----------
Taash: Is there a dress code?
Rook: Technically black tie.
Taash: Of course
Rook: Got anything?
Taash: Nope
Rook: Just throw on something nice and I'll match you.
Taash: We're rebelling?
Rook: Yup. I'd rather us both be underdressed than you alone.
----------
Rook: Favourite dragon?
Taash: You really wanna open that can of worms?
Rook: Can of WYRMS?
Taash: No. Just no
Taash: But not the worst
Rook: You're welcome. Dragons might be more of a train ride topic then?
Taash: Better probably
----------
Rook: I'm at the platform, got us some coffee!
----------
Black for them, latte for you. You scanned the crowd, some tiny voice within whispering they wouldn't come - but no, no, they would. For sure.
They'd just sent you the outfit a couple days ago - a teal button down and black dress pants, with matching black suspenders. Definitely nothing to complain about. You matched it with your black shirt and high waisted pants, opting for a teal shawl to wear around your neck. Someone who sent an outfit pic should come, right?
The train would be here in ten minutes…
And Taash was there after five more, with a small travel bag about the size of yours, waving to you as they crossed the distance.
“Please tell me that's coffee.”
“I texted you. It is.”
“Fuck yes.”
They, again, didn't see the need to blow on it. Just took probably half the cup in one sip, finishing it in the remaining time before the train came. True to your chat, the talk aboard was dragons - a topic you had maybe a hint of knowledge in, while Taash could talk for hours. Literally.
Which you didn't mind at all. You didn't expect them to talk that much for one, and second, it was interesting hearing about breath types, horns, hunting behaviour. You could probably geek out the same way about prosthetics and joints and nerves. To be fair, there even was some overlap - when Taash talked about how wings attached to the spine, an idea hit you.
“Moment.”
You reached into your backpack and took out a sheet and pencil, visualizing Taash's explanation and sketching it down real quick.
“Is this how it works?”
“Pretty much, yep.”
“Oh, neat. If I could…”
Pen gliding over the paper quickly while you noticed their eyes following.
“What does that mean?”
“Just an idea for school. I'll need to check if it works. Keep going, we were at wings?”
Taash grinned.
It was a good ride, and by the end of it, there definitely was something of a loose friendship from what you'd say. Something you'd have to - more or less - forget now.
“Once we get off this train, we're a couple until we get back on.”
“Yep. Wanna hold hands?”
“Sure.”
Hopefully yours wasn't sweaty, even if you were nervous. Taash's was warm, calloused, strong. Squeezing gently as they felt your tremble, but you still led them towards where the chauffeur always was.
“They're going to wait somewhere there.”
“Your family one of the kind with these paper signs?”
You snorted.
“... metal. It's reusable.”
“Metal as in that fucking titanium and gold sheet?”
You sighed. The chauffeur - Diego, from what you made out - stood there, not having spotted you yet, but the familiar sign unmistakably said “De Riva”.
“A very paranoid relative insisted they'd be bulletproof.”
Taash shook their head.
“Insane.”
“Yeah. Ready to get this show going?”
“Won't get readier. Oh, you want a watchword?”
“For stopping and finding an empty room to breathe?”
“Yep.”
“I like the idea. What word?”
“Dragon?”
You nodded. Taash nodded back, squeezed your hand again and started walking towards the chauffeur.
“We got this.”
It was slightly amusing to see his eyes find you, the little smile coming onto his face - only for it to freeze a bit as he realized that yes, that tall horned person was your date. Then he hid a chuckle behind a cough as he took the plate down.
“Welcome back, Mx. De Riva. And welcome to you, …?”
“Taash. Their partner."
They reached out to shake his hand, which he did, albeit with a bit of confusion. You smiled, leaning in for a half-hug when he tried to bow slightly to you.
“Diego, you know I don't like all of that fancy stuff.”
“Apologies.”
“Please don't.”
He smiled up at Taash, then turned back to you.
“We've been wondering who the mystery plus one would be. I don't think any of us had a Qunari in mind. You are out to give your mother a heart attack when she hears about this, aren't you?”
“Ha! I think we both know she doesn't have one.”
Diego shook his head, but you caught the hidden, short smile on his face.
“You sound more like your grandmother every year.”
“Good.”
“Follow me.”
He walked ahead, humming to himself - and you glanced at Taash.
“You good?”
“Didn't realize a fucking chauffeur would pick us up.”
“Sorry.”
You sighed and gave them an apologetic look.
“Take care what you tell him. He's lovely, but loves to gossip. Every staff member in the mansion will know about you before dinner starts.”
“Mhm.”
“They're all less bigoted, though.”
“Clocked that.”
Diego opened the door of the car for you - his favourite, a spacious, expensive truck on tall wheels. Taash whistled slightly, letting go of your hand to take your bag instead.
“There go my worries of not fitting in the car.”
“He always drives this one if he can.”
They nodded to walk to the trunk, promptly refusing to hand any bag over to Diego before they gently placed both within.
“I got it.”
When they returned, he stood there with a slight smirk and held the door open for them. A moment you then used to hop into the car by yourself, cackling as Diego sputtered.
“Mx - you can't just -”
“Seems I can.”
He shook his head, then climbed into the driver's seat while Taash fastened their seatbelt.
“How long’s the drive?”
“About an hour. Diego?”
“Yes?”
“Is my grandmother there already?”
“Yes. She'll likely seek you out soon.”
The drive went by in relative silence - Taash watched the landscape pass by, Diego was focused on the road. Mostly.
“Diego?”
“Yes?”
“How's things between you and Ciel going?”
“Ah, I can't complain. We did have a fight this morning, but that was my fault, so I picked up some flowers before you came.”
“Good luck with that.”
“He never could be mad at me for long.”
“Oh, I know. Anything else I should know about?”
“Lyris and Lydia broke up three weeks ago. Rumor has it they cheated on each other with Lyselle. Another rumor has it they're currently figuring out how to make it work with three.”
“Uh huh.”
“And we all got to enjoy an incredible meal last night. You see, your aunt ordered geese for the Christmas dinner, but when they arrived, she swore to the heavens she'd asked for boar. So we all took turns on our breaks to cook the geese for ourselves. It was delicious.”
You chuckled.
“Happy for you.”
“No worries about your dinner, at that. We got all the boar you could want.”
Taash hummed at the window.
“I've never had boar.”
“Tastes like gamey pork. Not bad.”
They nodded, and you smiled before Diego's voice rang out again from the front.
“Taash, if I may?”
“Yeah?”
“How did you two meet? It's the first time Icari brought any romantic partner. We're all curious.”
The Qunari glanced over to you, and you smirked and gave them a wink, mouthing a “go wild”. Then they let out a snort and leaned back in their seat.
“Saved them from a burning building.”
“Oh. Oh, dear!”
You grinned.
“They kicked down the door to the room I was in, saw me coughing on the floor and picked me up bridal style. How far was it again?”
“Five flights of stairs.”
“Taash didn't put me down once. By the second, I was madly in love.”
“And how'd you get together?”
“They showed up at the station with chocolates to properly thank me. Grabbed my favourites by chance. We went out for coffee…”
“... and the rest is history.”
“Adorable.”
“And don't worry, I didn't get a scratch.”
“Very good.”
Diego turned the car into the private road leading to your aunt's estate, making Taash whistle, turning to you and mouthing “a private fucking road?”, to which you just shrugged. The gates opened for the car to go in, and Diego parked right in front of the entrance, hopping out of the car and walking to the trunk. You got out yourself, taking a look up the more or less familiar walls, seeing a face or two in the windows that turned once they saw you looking.
Oh, the show was on. Part of you would love to be in those rooms as soon as they saw Taash.
Who shut the car door less than gently and stretched, then walked around the vehicle to grab your bags off of Diego before you even had the chance. He turned to you and handed you the room key.
“Thanks for driving.”
“It's my honor. I'll see you tomorrow at the latest.”
While he went back into the car to drive it to the garage, you walked up to Taash. They shouldered your bag and held theirs, turning to you - only for you to surprise them with a kiss to the cheek.
“We're being watched.”
“Of course we are.”
“Ready to be the bigots’ walking nightmare by existing?”
“Already my job.”
“Well then. Let's do this.”
Given they carried the bags, you held open the door to your aunt's mansion for them - Christmas was celebrated here every year, since it was reasonably easy to reach with the same distance for about everyone and spacious enough to hold them. Despite her… well, bigotry, she was a decent enough host, making sure everyone had it comfortable.
Taash whistled as they stepped into the entry hall, looking around the rich wooden panels and decor, the chandelier and slate floors. No one was there to greet you, but you didn't expect anyone to be.
“Damn.”
“Yeah. The guest rooms are through the door and up the stairs.”
Taash hummed and walked after you as you made your way through the halls, jewelry clinking a bit when they shook their head.
“Just how much money does your family have?”
“Too much.”
They snorted. You chuckled - your room was, as always, one of those further down, farther from the stairs and the party. Taash glanced the way you came when you unlocked the door and hummed.
“Subtle.”
“It’s more quiet and you don’t hear the annoying laughs. As far as I go, it’s perfect.”
“Mh. Point.”
To you, the room was familiar - while Taash took a long look around after setting down the bags, taking in the windows, the furniture, the decor. Tasteful, yes. Pompous, a little. At least the outside view was nice.
“Not bad.”
“Yeah. Which side of the bed do you want?”
“Window.”
“Sure.”
You took your bag and put it down on your part, opening it to unpack your outfit for later and the toiletry pouch. Taash opened the window and lit a cigarette, closing their eyes as they exhaled.
“Nerves?”
“Yep.”
“Can I help?”
“Nope. Just need a moment.”
“Alright.”
Stepping back, you got your stuffs in order for the time being, with Taash eventually joining.
“Great story in the car, by the way.”
“Heh. Really?”
“Yes?
“Absolutely. By tomorrow, it's going to be “you actively jumped into an inferno just to get me out and also, that's how you lost your horn”.”
“Fun.”
“How did that actually happen, if I may ask?”
“Explosion threw me into a wall.”
“Shit.”
“Nah. Better my horn than my skull.”
“Fair point. Does it grow back?”
“Slowly.”
“Huh. Cool.”
“I’m not sure how much I like that, actually.”
They replied as they went to the bathroom to put their toiletries there - the same moment there was a knock on your door. One you knew very much, that made your face light up a little. Taash took a deep breath and nodded, but kept standing in the bathroom, not immediately visible.
“Come in!”
The door barged open - and there she stood in all her glory, a smirk on her face.
“Icari De Riva. You certainly know how to make the talk about you, huh?”
Your grandmother crossed the distance between you, simultaneously kicking the door shut behind her as she wrapped you into her arms.
“It’s so good to see you again.”
“Same here, grandma.”
“Are you doing well? How’s university going?”
“Yes and good. What about you?”
“Oh, everything’s lovely. I can’t complain in the slightest.”
She pulled back from the hug, a smirk on her face.
“Now, tell me. Are the rumors true?”
You stepped back the moment Taash came out of the bathroom, your arms brushing - and you took their hand.
“Grandma, this is Taash. Taash, this is my grandmother, Valeria De Riva.”
The smirk turned into a full blown, mischievous laugh as she held out her hand to shake.
“Oh, it’s lovely to meet you. I would’ve said Icari told me all about you, but I wanted to keep it a surprise.”
“Good to meet you too, Ma’am.”
“So polite! Please, Valeria is enough.”
“Okay. Valeria.”
They let go and moved back to their full height. Your grandmother nodded.
“Good posture. Don’t cower. If I intimidate you, you're not fit to be with that little demon spawn.”
Taash chuckled.
“I’ve managed so far.”
“I’m sure. You look strong enough at least. Not skinny to the bones like Angelo's new flame. It's all the craze until you cozy up to them in bed. He will never be comfortable, that's for sure.”
You cleared your throat.
“Grandma-”
“At that, Icari, are you eating enough? You look like a stick. Are you taking care of them?”
Taash nodded.
“I'm on it.”
“Good. But don't let them get as buff as you. Once they can open jars… well, you don't want to end up useless.”
“Eh, I have other uses.”
“I’m very sure you do.”
She smiled.
“You seem like a good one. Icari needs someone reliable… something tells me you are. But I'll let you unpack and relax a little.”
Your grandmother patted Taash's arm, then gave you another squeeze before walking out.
“My little black sheep. A Qunari in your aunt's house? She's seething.”
The smirk came back as you both got a last, short once-over.
“Good.”
You chuckled and smirked back as your grandmother waved.
“Well, I’ll see you two at dinner. It’s bound to get exciting this year.”
The door fell shut behind her again, and Taash let out a soft chuckle.
“She's something.”
“Yeah. I'm glad she likes you.”
They snorted.
“Almost feel guilty for not being with you. Same time… not sure how I feel about her being excited for dinner, with how uncomfortable it's gonna be for us.”
You shrugged.
“She lives for drama and tearing into the relatives she doesn't like. She'll have our backs.”
“At least.”
Taash sighed, then took their bag off the bed to flop down on it, onto their stomach. The mattress bounced them a little, which made them chuckle.
“Damn, this is a bed.”
“Right?”
You let yourself fall next to them on your back. Turning to look at them, you crossed your arms behind your head.
“Want me to give you a rundown of everyone important?”
“Yeah.”
So you did. Telling them about your aunt, uncle, the asshole cousin, the less shitty cousin, great-somethings of various degrees - until they turned over onto their side and arched an eyebrow.
“Is your mother not coming?”
You felt your expression slip.
“Uh, no. She takes the work shifts every Christmas. And it's better that way.”
“Not on speaking terms?”
“You could say that.”
Turning back onto your back, you sighed.
“She always had this dream of a perfect, successful life. Then she turned out infertile, the adopted child turned out half-elf, and my father, who's family she'd married into because she wanted a rich husband and be a career woman both… he died when I was 13. So she drove head first into her career and left grandma to raise me the rest of the way.”
“Shit.”
“Wanna know what she did when I came out?”
“What?”
“She said “Of course you have to be different again. Can't I just have one normal thing?” and that was it.”
Taash let out a snort of disbelief.
“And I thought I had problems with my mom.”
“Want to share those while we're at it?”
“Ah, it's just… she was raised with very rigid gender roles and keeps pushing them on me. Always expects me to be masculine and all. She never says anything, but she always looked so disappointed when I did my makeup or she noticed how long my hair has gotten. And when we talk about it, she says she just wants the best for me.”
“Ugh. That isn't really nice either. Are you out to her?”
“Nah. Eventually, I'll do it, but…”
“... with her being like this when you're, in her eyes, a gender nonconforming man, how will she be learning you aren't a guy at all?”
“Yeah. That. Gonna be hard to hide next time I meet her, though.”
“HRT?”
“Heh. Yep. Been on it for a year and it's working good.”
“I can see that. And I’m really happy for you.”
Taash chuckled. You smiled, then tapped your chin.
“I… think I’ve got some tape left from the pre-surgery days. And I know how to do makeup to look more masc. Just in case you need it when you see your mother again. Just message me.”
“Appreciate it, Rook.”
“Least I could do, right?”
After sharing a quick grin, you glanced at the clock, pushed yourself up on your arm and shot them a small smirk.
“Now that we've shared the family trauma, how about we put on those button-downs and inflict some?”
They snorted.
“Yeah. Watchword?”
“Dragon. Do you want the bathroom or the bedroom?”
“Don’t care.”
“I'll take the bathroom then. I want to do some makeup.”
“Oh, right. Me too. I'll just take the mirror here.”
They nodded to the full length one next to the wardrobe, and you nodded - picking up your stuff and heading to the bathroom, getting dressed up completely before knocking at the door again.
“Come in, I'm done!”
Taash called, so you went back - they were lounging on the chair, phone out, but put it down the moment you entered, standing up and holding their arms out.
“So? How do I look?”
You tried not to stare.
Tried.
Yes, they were very attractive. And currently wearing well fitting pants, a nicely cut shirt that hugged them in all the right ways, suspenders, and their sleeves were rolled up, baring muscular, tattoo-adorned forearms.
“Hot.”
It slipped out before you could stop it. But you cleared your throat quickly and looked to the side while Taash chuckled.
“Thanks. You're pretty handsome yourself. Great eyeliner.”
A slightly dorky smile came onto your face as you looked to the side.
“Thanks.”
One glance at the clock - it was a little before five.
“Do you want to be early, on time or fashionably late?”
Taash snorted.
“Never been to anything where I could be fashionably late.”
You grinned.
“That, then. Unless you don't want literally everyone staring at us.”
“That's fine. Gonna be the topic of the evening anyway, according to your grandma.”
“Oh, for sure.”
“And you're sure I shouldn't cause a little shit?”
“As much fun as that'd be… I'd rather we play the happy couple. Not feeding the stereotypes and all that.”
“Fine.”
Taash shrugged, and you shot them a grin.
“Besides, it'll make them seethe seeing the black sheep has a healthier and more loving relationship than they do.”
They smirked.
“Nice point.”
Nodding, you walked to the door and opened.
“Shall we, my dragon?”
Taash let out a laugh at the silly endearment, then smirked.
“Let's fuck them up, cupcake.”
Both of you chuckled as you went down the hallway again, leisurely this time, listening to voices getting louder. Everyone seemed there yet - with the last two seats at the table still free, likely. Knowing your grandmother, she'd have made sure there was a Taash-sized chair there. Your aunt did have bigger ones just in case.
As that door got bigger, you saw Taash breathe deeply, and stopped right in front of it, gently touching their forearm and looking up - only to see them grin as they took your hand.
Then you opened the door.
The collective bunch of family members fell silent. There was even a little gasp when Taash fully stepped into view, but you just took their hand and smiled.
“Merry Christmas, everyone. This is Taash.”
The Qunari nodded, corners of their mouth twitching upward.
“Pleasure to meet you.”
You felt all eyes on you as you walked to your seats, never letting go of their hand. There indeed was a big chair where Taash was supposed to sit (at the very end of the round table), which made them sigh softly in relief. They overtook you, though, and with a gentle look at you, pulled out your chair. You chuckled and caressed their arm as you sat down, feeling them press a kiss to your head while they did the same.
Your aunt cleared her throat and stood up, lifting the glass of champagne in front of her - one had been provided for all.
“Now that everyone is here… welcome to the end of another year of blessings. We've all…”
She held a little boring speech, as every year. And you pretended to listen, as every year, until everyone raised their champagne to a toast and the buffet at the side was declared open. You remained seated - no use running when all the others did - and instead opted to finish the champagne. Taash did the same, and next to you, cousin Amelia chuckled.
“That's probably the most expensive thing your ox there ever drank.”
Taash snorted and leaned forward to look at her.
“Yep. And it's not even good.”
Their deadpan delivery shut her up for sure. Amelia looked confused for a second, then muttered something and stood up, leaving you to sigh and Taash to roll their eyes.
“First slur of the day.”
“Wanna keep a list?”
“Nope.”
“What is the best thing you ever drank?”
“Alcoholic? Spicy mulled wine. They have it at the winter market every year.”
“You like spicy things?”
“Yep.”
“Okay. At the buffet, at the very end, there's a small table with all sorts of hot sauce.”
“Neat. Thanks.”
“Wanna go grab some food?”
“Sure.”
You two went - loading your plates, getting drinks on top, sitting back down. Taash had filled three small bowls with the spiciest sauces they'd found, setting those next to their plate before diving in. Judging by their expression, they liked boar. And the quiche. And even more when everything was covered in chili.
From across the table, uncle Felix leaned over.
“So, Taash, what do you do for a living?”
“I'm a firefighter.”
He nodded with a little smile, but the other unce next to him rolled his eyes… all while your grandmother sighed in relief.
“Thank god, someone who actually contributes to society, unlike half the people at this table.”
“Valeria!”
“Don't say my name like that, boy, you're one of those.”
Said other uncle - Dave - shook his head while you hid a snort behind your glass. Taash didn't manage, causing Dave to glare at them. But they just ate another bite of food. Felix sighed and smiled at Taash again.
“What about Chiara do you love most?”
“Who?”
He laughed.
“Chiara. Your girlfriend?”
“You mean Icari.”
“Whatever she calls herself.”
You pressed your knee to Taash's under the table while they rolled their eyes a little.
“I adore their sass. And they have a cute grin.”
What fitting answer that you grinned at them just after. The words had rolled off their tongue smoothly. Felix laughed.
“Someone in the world had to appreciate that. And you, Chiara? What's it about Taash?”
“Oh, I could talk all night and then some.”
You let your eyes wander over them.
“Their knowledge is impressive. Their directness is refreshing. They have a great sense of humour. And they're-”
“Ah, I get the picture. To be young and in love again. I wish you both the best.”
“Thanks, uncle.”
Taash nudged your knee back with theirs. Your grandmother chuckled across the table.
The rest of dinner went mostly fine. Except for the microaggressions. You were used to them, yes. But seeing them against Taash was more uncomfortable. How Angelo's new girlfriend stepped just a bit further away from them as she stood in line behind them. The various use of “he” and “she” around the table, but never “they”. The looks.
You couldn’t stop the anger simmering up.
So after dinner, when everyone was clearing to the other rooms for chats or games, you whispered a short “dragon” behind their back, only to have their eyes focused immediately, searching for the nearest hint of privacy.
Which you found in an empty storage room filled with chairs, where you leaned against the wall as Taash closed the door.
“What's wrong?”
“Needed a moment to breathe, and wanted to check in on you.”
“I'm fine. Been in way worse situations than a couple assholes being shitty over dinner. If any, I’m pissed that you have to deal with this every year.”
You shrugged.
“I don't really notice it anymore, to be honest.”
“Yeah, and that's fucked up.”
You snorted and nodded. Taash gave you a half-smile.
“For me it's just annoying, but I'm not gonna see any of these assholes again. Might punch the next person who calls you a girl, though.”
“You sound oddly excited about that.”
“Getting into fistfights with bigots used to be a hobby of mine.”
“Try not to here. They'd sue you. And they have good lawyers.”
“Yeah, yeah. Spoil my fun.”
That made you chuckle.
“I get the sentiment though.”
“Who are you gonna mess up? You ain’t exactly built for…”
You stepped closer within a moment, staring up at them.
“I have my tricks.”
As if to emphasize, you brushed your knee against theirs. Understanding gleamed in Taash’s face before they swallowed, throat bobbing a little.
“Got it.”
You took the step back.
“I’ve done self-defense since I was five. You know. Little “girl” from a rich family. But I do prefer words.”
“Do you still go?”
“Yes. Once a week.”
Taash hummed.
“Curious to see what you can do, actually.”
“You have my number.”
They smirked.
“Yeah. I do. Wanna head back out?”
“Sure.”
Pushing yourself away from the wall, you smiled as they held the door open for you - though after you both were out, you caught your grandma’s eye, which flicked from you, to Taash, to the door, and back before she chuckled and walked back into one of the sitting rooms as you cleared your throat, turning towards them to whisper.
“... she totally thinks we just made out in there.”
“Would’ve been boring. We’re not even a little bit messy.”
That made you laugh softly and nod before you took their hand and went to one of the other rooms - just as Angelo stepped into the doorway, a smile on his face.
“Cousin! I’ve been looking for you.”
“You have?”
“Would you both like to join us for some Wicked Grace?”
He stepped back and gestured to the table, where his girlfriend and two friends sat, cards in the middle.
“I’ve heard you’re hard to beat. And don’t worry, I’ll make sure the bets stay at a level your ox can afford.”
Any idea this could’ve been fun went down the drain at his glance over to Taash, who snorted and crossed their arms. You glared at him.
“Their name is Taash.”
“Whatever. Are you in?”
“Not before you apologize.”
“Why? He is an ox, you know. I’m doing you both a favor.”
Taash put a hand on your shoulder.
“C’mon, cupcake, he isn’t worth it.”
Something about their touch grounded you. Something about the combination of Angelo’s grin and that made a deep-rooted rage flare up.
“You know what, Angelo? I've HAD it with you. I've endured the bullshit of your insecure little ass long enough, and you are NOT pulling Taash into this. You think yourself so much better because you're what? Human and rich? You went along with all the comfort and bullshit in this family without ever using your brain, and now you desperately kick down to feel some kind of superiority because deep within you know you are never going to be useful for ANYTHING.”
He took a step back, but you followed, extending a finger at him.
“The only likeable thing about you is your money. Those people at that table? They're just after that. No one likes you, and you never put in any effort towards changing it. The most thoughtful gift you ever gave is that necklace you bought for your girlfriend because it was the most expensive in the store. And you didn't even bother to think whether it'd suit her, because let me tell you, her skin tone does not go well with gold and everything else she wears is silver.”
Said girlfriend turned her head to the side while you extended your arms outwards.
“Yes, I may be the black sheep, the half-knife, the ox-fucker - which you're undoubtedly going to call me because your insults go as deep as a puddle in a drought. But I can actually look into the mirror and see someone I like, and I'll take that over betting my cars in poker that my friends only play with me because they hope they'll win them.”
Silence.
Absolute silence.
Angelo’s face was some mix of shock and disbelief, his friends glancing at each other, unsure how to react.
Finally, Taash chuckled.
“That brewed for a while, huh?”
“Yeah.”
“You DARE!”
Angelo’s face was deep red as he stepped closer to you, but you didn’t back down.
“Yep. What are you gonna do about it? Run to mommy because you never learned how to handle problems that you couldn't throw her money at?”
“You little-”
Whatever aggressive intent he had, it faltered as Taash pulled you back to take your place instead, their arms crossed as they stared him down. Literally. Something rumbled in their throat, a growl that laced through their voice.
“Back. Off.”
In the background, his friends got up from their seats, but Taash seemed entirely unbothered. Angelo grinned.
“You can’t take me and them.”
“Wanna test that theory, kid?”
The muscles in their arms flexed as they said that, and you saw a minute tremble in his eyes, a flicker down while his friends stepped back and you got closer.
“He’s not going to pay your medical bills, you know.”
When they sat back down, Angelo swallowed and moved back as well, Taash following just a bit so he stumbled a little. Only then, they stopped, turning around to you.
“Thought so. Let's go, cupcake.”
Easy to follow them as they led you out of earshot, or so they thought. The moment Taash turned to you, your grandmother came out of the hallway, laughing.
“Well, didn't you just tell him. Oh, he's going to be licking his wounds for the rest of next week. That spoiled brat got humbled just like he deserved.”
She patted your shoulder.
“Well done, Icari.”
You snorted.
“You raised me well.”
Grandma turned to Taash and put a hand on their arm.
“And you, protecting them like that. I knew you were a good one.”
“Thanks.”
As your grandmother nodded, Taash's gaze flickered to you, soft concern deep within it, entirely uncaring about the woman at their side as they focused on you.
“Hey. Everything okay after that?”
You smiled softly and squeezed their hand.
“Yes. I'm fine.”
“Good. Proud of you for standing up to that asshole.”
They stepped closer and pressed a kiss to your forehead, to which grandma smiled at.
“You two are really something. Care to join me, Felix and a few others for a round of cards instead?”
“Depends. What are we betting?”
“Just some game chips we've stored for the occasion.”
“Then I'm in.”
“Me too.”
Again, you followed after Taash, to sit down at the table and play - wicked grace, for the most part, where you did excel at when it came to sleight of hand. They did catch you cheating, once, not placated by the kiss you pressed to their cheek. And still corrected everyone, everytime anyone called you by deadname, casually and firmly at the same time. From the looks grandma gave them, she wanted invitations to the wedding next year.
The table lasted until midnight, through two rounds of wine and cheese, but when everyone else left, you did as well. Walking to your room in relative peace and quiet, holding hands right until the moment the door closed behind you, enveloping you in a cozy kind of darkness.
Simultaneously, you breathed. Deeply, letting go of the façade and the tension that had come with it.
“Thank you, Taash.”
“No problem. Was fun towards the end.”
“No, even for the thing before. If you hadn't been there… I don't know whether I'd have been able to say all of that.”
“Don't be ridiculous.”
“Really. Me alone against those? Lower chance. But I had you at my back. That meant a lot.”
They shrugged as they walked further into the room, opening the window and lighting a cigarette.
“You're welcome, then. But really.”
A chuckle rumbled in their chest.
“That was you preferring words?”
You laughed softly.
“Yeah.”
“Damn, Rook. Only thing you were missing was a mic to drop.”
“Heh. And it wasn't too bad for you?”
“Nah. As I said, I’ve had worse. Food was good. And the card games were fun.”
“Good.”
“Won't say we can do it again next year, but eh. Maybe.”
“I'll ask when the time comes around.”
“Sure. You wanna get ready first?”
“Yeah. I'll let you finish the cigarette.”
Taash hummed, and you went to the bathroom, getting out of the clothes and into sleepwear, washing, taking off makeup, everything necessary. They did the same after you were done, returning when you'd already settled in bed, pulling the blanket up.
“Good night, Taash.”
“Night, Rook.”