Page 13 of To Cuddle A Gremlin (Monsters in Love Side Stories #1)

CHAPTER 13

Crash: Kaz? I need to talk. I think I did something and now I can’t take it back.

Crash: Kaz? It’s been a few days. Are you okay?

Crash: …

S ebastian led the way through the snow-muffled woods. Occasionally, a dusting of snow fell from the trees onto their heads. The shock of sudden cold added to the atmosphere. As the tension from the work week and fear of Isadore’s opinion unravelled, the knots in his back dissipated. His breathing evened out with every step, and he could lift his head to the sky and take a deep, clearing breath. Their conversation dwindled until all he heard was chattering chickadees and angry squirrels. Every once in a while, Sebastian cautioned Isadore about a slippery rock. Any other person would get annoyed, but not Isadore. He thanked Sebastian as he followed Sebastian’s suggestions. Isadore’s acceptance of Sebastian’s warnings opened Sebastian’s eyes to the dangers of toxic friends and family. God, when had he become such a doormat? Things had to change, and it appeared Isadore would be with him every step of his journey.

Pausing at the bottom of an incline, Sebastian cocked his head to smile at the sound of water. Soon, they’d be at his favourite spot. “The falls are up this way, a few more minutes. It’s going to be a bit slick as you go up, so watch your step.”

“I can see the incline, Sebastian. You don’t need to tell me every time,” Isadore snapped. Sebastian flushed with embarrassment. He struggled to nod and try to get over the rock and roots. However, Isadore caught his hand and stopped his ascent. “I like you taking care of me. It’s sweet and adorable. I’m just… well, I’m enjoying our path to something more.”

Sebastian kept his mouth closed and agreed with Isadore. Isadore had growled at him. Of course, he was annoying. Isadore had the grace to smile it off and not tell Sebastian. He’d keep his warnings to himself. Isadore was a grown man. He could navigate the climb as well as Sebastian. All Sebastian had to do was place his feet carefully and pray that Isadore would copy him.

Waite’s Falls roared louder with every step. Sebastian itched to run and take in the sight. Seeing the water always restored his equilibrium, and today’s hike was supposed to be his answer. He loved the rush and sweeping away of his emotions. This was nature. This was perfect. Stepping on to the first flat surface, he approached the viewing platform to soak in the view of the ice-covered water. Isadore lumbered behind him, his breathing uneven from the unfamiliar terrain.

“Dude, you have the energy of a rabbit. How the hell did you get up here so fast?” Isadore bent over, his hands on his knees as he caught his breath. Straightening up, he flung his head back, his toque falling to the ground. Strands of hair escaped his braid and framed his face beautifully. Sebastian swallowed hard and crossed an arm across his body, unsure of himself and even Isadore. “This is amazing. Thank you for sharing.”

Sebastian led him to the viewing platform and leaned against the railing, basking in the icy mist. Isadore snuggled in and slid his arm through Sebastian’s, holding him close. Was this a moment? Could Sebastian rest on Isadore and not get yelled at? Taking a chance, he laid his head against Isadore’s and relaxed. The power of the water, the significance of being here with Isadore, and nature in general erased the anxiety building up and turned off the noise. Standing with Isadore beside him and listening to the sighs, Sebastian accepted he was just as comforting to Isadore as Isadore was to him. When people threw out insults in the past, their words had nothing to do with him but everything to do with them. People enjoyed his presence. They wanted to be with him, and they accepted his quirks.

Isadore dropped his arm and wrestled with his pockets, his face contorting with puzzlement and confusion. After a minute of worry, Isadore whipped out his phone. With a waggle of his eyebrows, he pulled Sebastian close, nipping his ear, and when Sebastian turned his head in admonishment, he stole a kiss. The shutter of the camera clicked as their lips met. Grinning at his deviousness, Isadore pressed another kiss near the edge of Sebastian’s toque. “A perfect picture for our perfect day.”

“You’re so odd,” Sebastian grumbled, tugging his hat over his ears. Sebastian brushed the frost off the guardrail and crossed his arms, trying to hide his embarrassed pleasure.

“I think you’re irresistible and sweet.” Isadore stepped close behind Sebastian and rested his chin on his shoulder. “You underestimate how kind and good you are.”

“As you might have noticed, I am resistible. Other people have managed to be repelled by my charms quite well.” Sebastian grouched as he stared at the icy falls. The mist gathered, causing a chill to settle over them. Shivering, he curled his shoulders in, bringing Isadore closer to him.

Isadore hissed at Sebastian’s movements. “Okay, darling, unless you want to get more closely acquainted, you gotta stop moving.”

“Why?” Sebastian turned to face Isadore and gasped as his front grazed Isadore’s. “Oh. Oh! ”

“Exactly. You turn me on.” Isadore pulled Sebastian tighter into his embrace and stared hard into his eyes. The cool grey of his skin highlighted the green flecks in his eyes, drawing Sebastian in. “Those people who tossed you aside knew you were waiting for me to find you and tell you, you’re perfect just as you are.”

“Oh, come on.” Sebastian tried to pull off sarcasm, but a catch in his throat caught him by surprise. He gazed at the foamy icy pool and blew out the air. “You…you made my day. Thank you.”

“Thank you for sharing your favourite spot with me.” Isadore rested his head against Sebastian’s and sighed. They watched the mesmerizing view until their toes turned to blocks of ice and their stomachs began to growl.

“I brought some snacks, like a light lunch. If you want some?”

“My excellently prepared hero.” Isadore patted Sebastian’s ass, shocking Sebastian with his familiarity, before sitting at the slick bench on the opposite side of the viewing platform. Sebastian grimaced at the damp before pulling out a fluffy towel from his pack and wiping the seat down. Isadore peered at the loaded pack with interest. “What tasty treats will sate our hunger?”

“Well, I packed something that travelled well. It’s just plain, boring–You know what? We don’t have to eat this crap. I’m sure there’s something–”

Isadore leaned forward and pressed his mouth against Sebastian’s flow of doubts. The kiss should have been a warning. Isadore seemed to always understand when a kiss worked and when to let Sebastian speak. The pause helped reset his thoughts and calm him down.

Sebastian sighed as he dropped his head against Isadore’s. “How are you that good?”

“I’m not. I’m waiting for you to slap some sense into me when I steal your kisses. However, I have noticed that when I kiss you, you calm down. So, it’s my little dose of medicine.” Isadore brushed a kiss on Sebastian’s forehead before clearing his throat and leaning back. “Want to try again?”

“I brought some peanut butter and jam sandwiches. They’re easy and tasty on a hike. I think they really hit the spot.” Sebastian discreetly wiped his eyes and peered into his backpack once more. A container with homemade cookies rattled at the bottom. “I also baked some cookies? I know they won’t–”

“Sebastian.” Isadore’s gentle reprimand had Sebastian taking another deep breath.

“My cookies won at the fair. I hope you like them.” Sebastian tried again, adding the small humble brag as a consolation for Isadore.

“I will. I love ginger cookies.” Isadore opened the lid and moaned happily. “I’m also not without gifts. I did remember you said you had some snacks prepared, but I thought I’d bring the beverages.”

Sebastian smiled at Isadore as Isadore pulled out a large insulated thermos. Isadore waved his prize. “I have water.”

Isadore poured out Sebastian’s hot chocolate in the thermos lid and passed it to Sebastian. The small picnic hit the spot as they munched on the treats. The anxiety that had begun building while Sebastian was distracted disappeared, and he enjoyed the moment with Isadore.

“I’m so glad I brought you here with me.” Sebastian gazed at the waterfall and sighed in contentment.

“Right? You have the best ideas.” Isadore slid over on the bench and weaved his arm through Sebastian’s. He kissed Sebastian’s jaw before resting his head against Sebastian’s shoulder.

“Thank you for indulging me,” Sebastian mumbled. This was way better than Netflixing and chilling.

“Hey.” Isadore turned Sebastian to face him and arched his eyebrow. “No badmouthing my friend. He’s a little insecure, but he just needs support from the right people. Like me.”

“Fine.” Sebastian rolled his eyes and oomphed as Isadore kissed him hard. The embrace was more aggressive than normal, and all Sebastian could do was sit there and accept it. Isadore speared his fingers under the knit toque to keep Sebastian in place as he tenderly ravaged his mouth. Isadore gentled his hold as it became evident Sebastian was a willing participant.

Isadore groaned as he caressed Sebastian’s cheek, sweeping his tongue inside and tangling his with Sebastian’s. The taste of strawberries and ginger enhanced the kiss, and Sebastian tentatively licked back, curious about the flavour of Isadore. Isadore sighed and snuggled closer to Sebastian on the bench. His hands fumbled with the zipper on Sebastian’s coat, drawing it down and giving him access to more. “Dammit, Sebastian.”

Sebastian dove into the moment, lacing his fingers through Isadore’s hair, pulling the strands out of the tight braid. Every emotion Sebastian had never felt before was striking him as bolts of lightning and desire. This was what he'd missed out on. This connection with another person had never formed, not like this. What Isadore shared with him was what he longed to give Isadore. Desire, adoration, and love entwined with one another as he opened up his heart to this kiss.

“Isa, Isa. What do I do?”

“Shh, go with it, sweet Bas. I’ll catch you.” Isadore slid his hand to Sebastian’s lower back and caressed the heated skin with cool fingers. He kissed Sebastian fiercely as he explored the goose bumps along the edge of Sebastian’s pants. “By the stars. Not the place for this.”

Sebastian gasped as Isadore pulled away. His glasses were foggy and frosty as he stared up at the darkening sky. “Right. You’re right.”

“We will return to this at a safer location, with all the romantic bits and bobs, I promise.” Isadore put Sebastian back to sorts before falling on the damp bench. “My toes aren’t cold anymore.”

“That’s… that’s always a good thing.” Sebastian pressed his lips together, tasting Isadore and wishing he was brave enough to attempt sex at the waterfall.

“Right? I thought so.” Isadore covered his face. “I’m gonna need a minute before I can stand. You got me all fired up, and I’m exhausted.”

“Are you okay?” Sebastian slid over and examined Isadore while trying to figure out what he needed in case Isadore was unwell. He gave Isadore a once-over and blushed at the large bulge at his crotch. “Oh. I… I didn’t think. I’m sorry.”

Isadore rolled into a sitting position and pulled Sebastian in for a hug. “Don’t apologize. You’re good. How do you feel?”

Sebastian took mental stock. The hot emotions were zinging everywhere. And his own dick was mostly hard, which was unusual and wonderful. “Like a million bucks, but ready and shit. It’s weird.”

“Hmm, sounds like a perfect feeling. Hold on to it so when we get home you can show me in great detail what you mean.” Isadore tidied up their garbage and drinks before stuffing them in Sebastian’s pack. “Let’s get on with part two of our date.”

“Part two? I didn’t plan anything else.” Sebastian tugged his hat on and did the same to Isadore, making sure his pointed ears were covered. “I just had the hike on the agenda.”

“Part two is where I excel,” Isadore stated. “Come on. I’m eager.”

Once they were sure they had cleaned everything up, Sebastian led them to the trail. “The walk back will be tricky, so be careful.”

“Yes, boss. I’ll watch my every step and your delightful ass,” Isadore teased. Sebastian rolled his eyes as he held onto a young tree for support. A quick intake of air had Sebastian spinning around. Isadore was clutching a tree. “Sorry. Didn’t see the root. I’m good.”

“Okay, going down is worse than going up.” Sebastian placed each foot, his mind focused solely on the flat trail just ahead. He smiled in relief as he stepped on the path. He turned around to watch Isadore take miniscule steps down. “You’re almost set.”

“I deserve a victory kiss for this, you know–fuck.” Isadore’s left foot shot out as it slipped on a protruding rock. Sebastian ran toward Isadore, hoping to catch him before he fell, but he wasn’t quick enough. Isadore hit the ground hard, cracking his head against a small stump. He slid down the trail, his leg bent at an impossible angle. Fear gripped Sebastian. He regretted even thinking about heart attacks earlier. Had he manifested Isadore’s trip? No. Right now, he had to focus on stopping Isadore. Watching him fall while unable to do anything horrified Sebastian.

“Isadore, grab something! Anything!” Sebastian yelled as he dropped to the ground near Isadore to stop the fast slide. He slipped on the ice, smashing his chin on a rock. A sickening sound of bones breaking filled air as Isadore crashed into Sebastian. “Isadore?”

His body went into automatic motion as the rules of first aid filled his head. Every moment was dire as Sebastian confirmed Isadore was breathing, and he was warm. He pulled out his first aid kit and stared at the bandages and whistles. Everything was white, and Sebastian couldn’t remember what the first rule of helping someone was. “Isa? How're you doing?”

“Hurts. It hurts so fucking much.” The whisper was just a breath of air. Sebastian froze before jumping into action. He had to be the hero. Isadore needed him to be steady. Sebastian pulled Isadore out of the way and covered him up with his coat. His leg was definitely broken. Sebastian’s mind went blank. All his First Aid courses disappeared from his memory banks. “Bas, I can’t move my leg.”

“I know, I know. I’m trying to remember what I’m supposed to check.”

Sebastian peered into Isadore’s eyes and bit his lip. Isadore was going into shock. His beautiful eyes were glazing over. Oh, God, what was that acronym again? Airway Breath C–? No. Not necessary. Isadore was breathing. Sebastian swallowed before trying again. Keep him awake? “Hey, you can’t pass out. I need you here with me. I gotta call 911.”

“Human doctors aren’t going to be able to help me, Bas. You have to phone the lord. Lord… Typhon. He’s our protector in this land. You have to get him.” Isadore opened his eyes and glared hard at Sebastian. “He knows what to do.”

“But I haven’t met him!” Sebastian wailed. He scrambled for his phone and searched his contacts for anyone who could help. When Isadore said no humans, everything within him crashed to the ground. He didn’t know anything but the human way. How was he going to fix this? Scrolling through his phone, he landed on a name and number he hadn’t called in years. Guilt ate at him as he stared at the familiar icon. Shaking his head, Sebastian pressed the contact and braced himself for a firm denial. “Hello, Dare?”

“Yes?”

“This is Sebastian, and I have a problem.” Sebastian laid out everything that happened with short, choppy sentences. His eyes remained glued on Isadore. When Isadore gasped, Sebastian panicked and almost threw the phone away, despite Darius still talking to him.

“Sebastian, I’m sending Bale, my mate, to you, okay? Say yes if you’re listening.” Bale was a winged demon with fierce features. He was tall and scowly. He'd absolutely terrified Sebastian when he first saw him. “Sebastian!”

“Yes. Bale will meet me. He’ll look after Isadore. But what happens after?” Sebastian reached out a hand to hold Isadore and yipped as Isadore gripped it hard.

“You will stay by my side, and you will not think this is your fault,” Isadore spat out with gritted teeth.

“Exactly what he said. I know you, Sebastian. We might have stopped talking, but you’re you, and you are going to blame yourself, so listen to the man and accept that it was an accident,” Darius ordered. Sebastian swallowed and nodded, despite Darius being not able to see him. Darius didn’t understand Sebastian. They hadn’t said more than a few sentences to each other for years. He had no right. “Sebastian?”

“Fine! I’m not to blame,” Sebastian snapped. He could say the words, but he didn’t have to believe them. Isadore was hurt. He had to have caused this. Bad lucks and jinxes weren’t supposed to exist, but this had to be the exception. And their date had gone so amazingly well. Right. Once Isadore was saved and didn’t have a stark white bone sticking out of him, Sebastian would politely say goodbye. Isadore shouldn’t have to watch his safety or life around Sebastian.

Loud wingbeats could be heard, and a great being of immense size landed with a whoosh, startling Sebastian out of his spiralling thoughts. A demon with shorn horns and ragged wings brushed tree debris and snow off his shoulders and legs. He had a compassionate look on his face as he took in the scene.

“I think your friend is here.” Sebastian gave Bale a once-over before hanging up the phone. Bale dropped to his knees and tore Isadore’s pants down the centre, revealing the goriest limb Sebastian witnessed.

“Okay, this is a little out of my skills range. I’m going to have to take him to Lord Typhon. He can heal the gremlin here. But we must move immediately. We can’t wait for your car. Are you okay with me flying you to his cavern?” Bale touched Isadore’s leg with gentle hands. Sweat broke out on Isadore’s brow as he fell back to the icy ground.

Sebastian hovered anxiously by Isadore’s side, unsure of his role since Bale arrived. “I can drive there to meet you?”

“Perfect. I’m sorry I have to leave you alone, but time is of the essence.” Bale wrapped the broken bone with a fleece blanket Sebastian had tossed in his backpack.

Isadore snagged the lapels of Sebastian’s jacket and brought him face-to-face. His eyes were dark and pain-filled, but the determination terrified Sebastian. “You will not blame yourself for this. You had nothing to do with what happened. Tell me you know this, Bas.”

“I do. I swear.” Sebastian held on to Isadore with sweaty hands. His heart pounded rapidly as he tried to hide how terrified he was from Isadore. Somehow Isadore’s scrutiny saw past Sebastian’s lying promise.

“Say the words then. Let me see you,” Isadore growled.

“Not my fault. Please, just let Bale take you. I’ll be right behind you.” Sebastian kissed the back of Isadore’s hands and fell to his ass to allow Bale access without hurting Isadore.

Minutes later, after Bale had carefully situated Isadore in his arms without hindering his wings or causing more pain, Bas lifted off into the canopy with Isadore cradled. Sebastian wiped his hand under his eyes as tears blurred his vision. Dammit, dammit. This was the worst day. God, what was he supposed to do now? He'd broken the only person who seemed to understand what made him better. With weary legs and cold, damp pants, Sebastian picked his way to the car. The weather had shifted like people said it would and coated him in great flakes of wet snow, soaking him within moments. Isadore’s angry face popped into his head, forcing him to remember the fall in great detail.

Isadore was wrong, of course. Sebastian’s jinx caused this. His inability to have a good time, a perfect date, was instrumental in Isadore falling and breaking his leg. Three dates, three disasters. Why the hell would Isadore even think this wasn’t some sort of curse?

No.

Sebastian was going to do them both a favour and step back. Isadore shouldn’t be around Sebastian anymore. He was too dangerous.