( look, if he'd known he'd had a free pass to show up like the bum he usually dresses like, Peter might of taken it. or not, because Cheryl wouldn't let him, and... well, he'd never admit it in a million years, but you don't go to a gala to meet and exchange gifts with a girl that's important to you wearing a ramone tshirt and about three sweatshirts. his aunt would wake from stasis just to lecture him.
Cheryl had not gone so far to compliment him after he'd cleaned up for the party — she'd deemed him "acceptable" which is probably a compliment coming from Cheryl, just not really a confidence booster to most. he even skipped his glasses for this shindig, but that means he has nothing to hide behind when Juvia mentions he looks handsome. Peter isn't an arrogant kid, he knows he ranges from messy but not terrible looking at best to ... acceptable (maybe Cheryl was on to something) when he bothers. handsome really feels a stretch, yet when it is delivered so sincerely even Peter "dodge all compliments" Parker finds himself short in trying to parkour out of it. )
I... Cheryl said I couldn't show up looking like I sleep on park benches, so... Thanks. ( he laughs slightly nervously, shakes his head, and happily moves on to talking about her instead. ) I know blue is your color, but I like the yellow. It's like sunshine, bright. Sorta like you, you know? ( even Peter knows this is venturing into horrible cheese land, so he deflects with, ) Maybe we can find you a blue party hat. Then it'll be the best of both worlds.
truly it did.... (shh its ok we still beat captcha that is a win for both of us)
[ To be honest she'd probably dote on him no matter what he wore.. As long as it's still 100% genuine Peter she has no complaints. But she doesn't mind the way he is right now, either.. it gives her reason to thank Cheryl for her work, even if he did have to endure some criticism to get to the kind of dapper he is. There's a small nod following his confession, because she ultimately can sympathize with those types of comments, the only difference is it was coming from both Misa and Leanne.
Her heart leaps at his words, a fresh puff of steam rolling off her person. She's never told him, or anyone for that matter, that she absolutely adores the sun. And, just as much as that, a clear sky. To Juvia, it's the most beautiful thing she's ever seen, especially since most of her life the only sky she's ever known is one full of rain. Because of that, his words take a whole new meaning outside of the heartfelt compliment. ] Juvia reminds you of the sun? Really? [ Ah!!!!! She definitely wouldn't mind staying in horrible terrible cheese land, but she's too moved to do much else other than follow the flow of conversation. ]
Oh, thank you, Peter.. [ Best of both worlds.. He is totally right. With eyes sparkling, she takes both of his hands in her own, squeezing them with vigor. Her sincerity continues, even with the extremely strange declaration of, ] Juvia will find you a bench to sleep on, too! You won't regret coming out, tonight, I promise!
HIGH FIVE TEAM!!! i can be 9 days late to everything now (i will try not to be)
( please do not dote on him dressing like a loser all the time, Juvia, he can do better than that. the real reason he looks nice at the moment is he's not wearing three different sweatshirts... you're not fooling anything with that Peter, stop.
considering he's party to his own steam on occasion these days, he knows that what he said made her especially emotional, and he didn't quite mean to... though, the look on her face doesn't indicate it was a bad thing. he means it, her bright personality and cheeriness reminds him a lot of sunshine, and her determination though all odds could easily be compared to sunlight trying to break through determined clouds. Juvia was known for her water and her rain, yet he saw a lot of sunshine in her, too. it was slightly sappy to admit, but he meant it.
she grabs his hands, and he doesn't find he minds, squeezing back. he'll be damned if he doesn't find this girl a blue party hat before this gala is over... at least it'll give his wallflower ass something to do, I guess. ) No benches needed, I'll probably sleep in a bed, but I appreciate the thought. ( he is charmed by her effervescent enthusiasm, as always, and he already doesn't regret it, now that he's here.
that is, for as long as he doesn't have to show Juvia the present he made, because then he's 2000% going to feel awkward and weird again. the story of his life. )
HELL YEAH!!! i will be supportive of any decision u make 9 days late or otherwise.. i got u
[ It's in her blood to encourage questionable habits and that includes questionable fashion choices... this is coming from the girl whose clothes are Fur Trimmed™ everything, so it's not like she's much better..... ]
Um.. Juvia doesn't think there's a park nearby. [ The squeeze he gives her in return makes her smile bashfully, the gesture giving her the reassurance she needs to stay out of her comfort zone. Covering all of your body 24/7 makes for a drastic change when most, if not all, your limbs are exposed. And even though he's done so little, she already feels light. At ease, if she wants to try and phrase it properly. ] So a bed might have to do. [ It only reminds her the inevitability that this, hopefully magical, night will end.. She perks before she can dwell on it too much. ]
Would you like Juvia to get some drinks, first, before going somewhere private? [ Despite her choice of words (no nefarious intentions here when she says private, strictly PG), she wants this experience to be shared between just the two of them. Also because she refuses for anyone to peak in and ruin the moment for them, party be damned. Even with loitering around the very bustling entrance of the gala, she has an inkling of a few quiet places for the two of them to go to, if that's what he wishes.
Pointedly, she doesn't let go of his hands, instead swaying them slightly. ] Or did you want to explore the gala? Even though they can be overwhelming, they're also fun.
( he fully supports her eskimo princess aesthetic. nothing wrong with wanting to be warm, fur-trimmed, or both. having experienced her powers first hand, he knows exactly why Juvia could benefit from some warm clothing. any outburst of emotion and she'd be overheated or frigid, and a second later she could be oscillating in the complete opposite direction. Peter thinks the fur trimmed hats are a good idea, just so she doesn't freeze. if anyone wants to lecture her about her adorable hat, then let it be known she has one staunch supporter.
there probably isn't a park nearby, she's right. it isn't even a joke yet it still manages to amuse him, just from her utmost sincerity in the confession. ) Ah, well, I sort of like sleeping in a bed. Not sure I'd fit on a bench, anyway. ( even if his bed wasn't an option, Peter probably would just sleep stuck to a wall cuddled in a corner and I WISH I WAS KIDDING BUT CANONICALLY HE DID THIS. overall, it's good that both of them have managed to talk about his bed without losing it over the implications of it. they're really growing up...
he's been dying to know what is in the gift she gave him, the one carefully tucked into his pocket... but, when she inquires after whether he'd like to explore the party or just get it over with, the answer is pretty easy. ) We came all the way here, right? We should see what they have to offer. ( even if he's not a party person, Peter isn't completely against them, either. he likes to have fun on rare occasions that he let himself, and he did come here for a reason. and Juvia is pretty much that reason, so he's not in a rush to finish their gift exchange and spend the rest of his night wallflowering. )
[ Most people just assume the Aesthetic is to just ward off other people because it's kind of intimidating and odd. There is the obvious practicality of it, something that she'd be happy to hear him talk about now that they share the same problems. And she, especially, appreciates his offer to find a replacement for said adorable hat. But truly, the next step of their relationship is going to hot topic and embracing their scene/punk phase together. ]
You're too big to fit, Juvia thinks. [ She emphasizes it with a stretch of her hand up, just to remind him of his height. ] But if you want, you can sleep in one of Juvia's bubbles.. I'll even make it so you won't drown. [ Probably the most heartfelt thing she's said thus far, the fact that she will deliberately keep him alive in one of her trademark floating bubbles of water instead of dying..... tru luv ]
Perfect. [ She didn't have plans for them to just head home after they opened their gifts, anyway, so hearing him agree only encourages her enthusiasm. Juvia takes pride in a lot of things— like her ability to make friends, her tenacity in the pursuit of love, and how stubborn she is. Sadly, Peter won't know what exactly is in that mystery little box of hers until they settle somewhere by themselves.
She leads him with the remaining hand still grasping his, pushing through the crowd of people to avoid any unnecessary interation (i.e. everyone who isn't Peter). She even manages to ignore the insistent volunteers at the door in favor of waltzing inside. ] Do you like to dance? [ She only asks once she slows her stride, grip a little less firm, as she observes the main area of the gathering. ]
( Peter is from New York City, he's seen steampunk and grunge and hipster all collide on the subway and never batted an eye. perhaps this is why he is so accepting of Juvia's fur lined wardrobe. it's more than likely the fact he actually suffers from temperature fluctuations now will come up eventually, considering it is tied to Juvia's abilities and she's quite literally the expert on them. if he expects her to ask him about the powers she's been saddled with, it means he has to be as open with his own struggles. honestly, it's kind of nice to have someone he can talk to about it.
they should definitely get matching hoodies to protect their body temperature and their ever important aesthetic, though.
he definitely is too big, and it'd be a pretty impressively sized bubble to toss him in too, for that matter. ) Ah, Juvia. Always looking out for me, aren't you? ( not drowning him in bubbles he really doesn't need to sleep in to begin with... it's so thoughtful. the playful sarcasm is at least slightly better than his dumb jokes, though. barely.
Peter is less talented at ignoring the volunteers, if only because he's pretty horrible at saying no to people. he's definitely the guy who gets cologne sprayed in his face because he doesn't have the heart to ignore even overenthusiastic shopgirls armed with samples. however, since Juvia is leading him in a beeline into the party, he has an excuse for only mumbling a few apologies and ignoring their attempts to hand out buttons. wonder what that's about. )
Have you ever heard the expression "White guys can't dance"? Well, they probably made that observation after seeing me doing my absolute best, so... ( long story short, Peter generally feels too awkward to dance, though truth be told he has managed it before. it just takes some convincing to get him to ty. )
[ Sadly, the outfit range in Fiore isn't as diverse, but definitely out there by most people's standards. Being able to talk with him about their own special abilities has been a nice plus to their relationship, too.. Outside of the obvious chance to match and coordinate their outfits for Maximum Denial About Their Relationship. It gives her an excuse to get a little closer to him, both emotionally and physically— just like how he is now, with her hand grasping his.
Taking care of him, hypothetically or not, is her job through and through. If it means letting him get his fingers prune-y in her magic, just to sleep—or pass out? she hasn't thought about the details yet— just say the word. But if he wants to do something to detract them from their privately built atmosphere, the one that makes her feel giddy about their time together, it simply won't happen. Buttons? More like another thing in her way of a nice evening with her roommate, friend, and definitely not her date?
Realistically, they'll both probably have to deal with that at a later time when they come full circle, but that's not something she's concerned about. Juvia, not being from New York City, does not know what the hell that expression (white people? ??? can't dance??) is, but nods anyway. One day she'll tell him she has no idea what he's talking about... ]
Oh.. [ Ah, cute.. She doesn't bother hiding the amusement she feels at figuring out what he means. It makes sense that he wouldn't be good at it, it's exactly how she imagined it to be. She feels disgustingly endeared to the way he tries to explain it, even if he is putting himself down in the process. ] Would you be willing to show Juvia your absolute best tonight?
( definitely not her date. despite the fact they were tied together through their abilities because of a pact formed on an intense bond, they definitely weren't dating. that'd be crazy. Peter doesn't date — maybe he owes Juvia an explanation as to why he doesn't, though it turns out that story isn't particularly easy to tell. especially with the quiet fear that she wouldn't want to be around him if she knew the truth, even if deep down Peter thinks that's probably what he deserves.
the phrase "white guys can't dance" isn't the most off the wall colloquialism he's thrown her way, in fact it's almost self explanatory. still, if she ever did stop him in the middle of his nonsense, one of these days maybe he'd learn to avoid pop culture references. ...maybe. it's sort of like asking a fish not to swim, yet a determined fish might try.
Peter was rather afraid she might ask that. he does his best to convince people how terrible he is at dancing in the hopes no one would be brave enough to ask. he's not sure if he's endeared by the fact Juvia would risk it or terrified that if he agrees she'll realize he was definitely right all along. he's suddenly a little warmer and a little redder than he was a few seconds ago, though when they swing by the refreshments he can hide this by taking whatever drink looks coldest and closest and drinking it all in one swallow.
...ah, great, that was definitely alcoholic. he makes a face at the taste, though the liquid courage might have something to do with him fighting the burn of his nerves to offer, ) Uhm. Well. I guess. If you wanted to, I mean. ( hopefully he doesn't break out a panic sprinkler and bus driver, because then they will probably never speak again. )
[ She doesn't really suspect that there's an underlying reason behind the way their relationship is, outside of the fact something like this shared between them is sort of a norm for her.. she figures this is just the way Peter is. Juvia is an understanding person, most have to be if they want to spend more than five seconds residing at Fairy Tail with the sheer amount of drama. And no matter what his dilemma might be, there's absolutely no way she'd abandon him.
Just like now, how she follows him and even mimics his actions. Actions like taking a drink for herself just to nurse it instead of swallowing it all in one go like he did. When she's desperate enough for her own dose of courage, or stupidity depending on how you squint, she'll resort to this very same table to help her out. The face he makes is even more cute, her smile stretching as she thinks this over and over even as he confirms his fate for a better part of the night. ] Juvia would want to, yes. [ Even if he were to embarrass both of them she'd still hang out with him, no questions asked.
Although, she hopes that'd be the same if she were to do the same. It wouldn't be the first time she turned a public event into a disaster because of her crazy, definitely delusional, plans. ] Juvia doesn't dance all too often, either.. so she's not sure how much support she can give you on the dance floor. [ Or if these people will even tolerate their shenanigans— ] I will try my best, regardless.
[ And with nails tapping at the side of the glass she holds, she tilts her head. ] ..Maybe, you can teach some of your moves to me?
( definitely a good call, if she's going to follow his stupid choices, to learn from his mistakes and not swallow an entire two ball of hard alcohol in one breath. that stuff had not been made up as a shot. it probably wouldn't be so bad if you just sipped it, though. on the bright side, it'll probably make him a little less nervous about the party. here is hoping... for the benefit of everyone.
Peter catches the smile as he shakes off the sour face he'd been wearing, though he has no idea what prompted it. probably for the best, though he can't be horribly put out at the idea she's smiling. Juvia has been through a lot, even just in the past few months — it is good to see her happy. it makes him smile in return, even though he has no clue what has prompted it. turns out as long as she's happy, he's pretty happy himself. )
You don't? I guess, Fairy Tale didn't leave you much time for that? ( he has no actual clue, he's gently trying to understand her life a bit better. as for his part, ) Slow dancing isn't so hard. But if you want to dance like a middleaged dad, then I am your guy.
( that wasn't exactly a no, though, so someone please save Juvia before he teaches her the cabbage patch Juvia deserves better than this.)
..No. [ They all weren't the type for dancing if the fully functioning bar in their guild hall was anything to go by. ] There were times where we were able to relax. The place we went to most would be the beach, but it isn't very fun for Juvia. And they were usually short. We are known for causing trouble. [ In a weird way it makes her kind of proud to say that, despite the implications of their reputation.
It's this moment she chooses to take a sip from her drink as she mulls over her choices. The romantic part of her brain, arguably the dumbest, screams slow dancing just for the chance to be closer to him. ] Juvia.. [ Speaking of, dancing like a middleaged dad should not sound appealing, at all, coming from Peter's mouth.
Mouth!! ] Juvia wants to.. [ Mouth!!! Her eyes stare at his lips far longer than necessary. Not in a tension filled "We need to kiss immediately" kind of way, but the "I'm suddenly hyper aware that we've kissed before, and now I can't stop staring at your lips?" kind of way. Juvia has the decency to look away when realizing it, clearing her throat and trying her hardest to enthusiastically stay on topic. ] ..To learn everything. All of your moves. Anything you want to give to Juvia, she will take!
You don't like it at the beach? ( that surprises him, somehow, since she has such an affinity for water. maybe it was the salt water? he's suddenly curious, and a little sad for her. he's not exactly a beach bum, yet Peter enjoys the beach enough that he feels bad if Juvia can't enjoy it because of her powers.
he's notably incredibly nonplussed by the idea Fairy Tale were troublemakers. Juvia is talking to a vigilante here. he's spread his fair share of trouble. it's just a matter of the heart being in the right place, right?
as for staring at his mouth... lacking the tension, he doesn't quite understand what the fixation is. baffled, he rubs at his mouth and jaw like somehow he must have something on his face that might merit staring. so, for the record, he's not always enormously perceptive on this stuff. in fact, he's rarely perceptive. ) For your own sake, I'll try and only give you the good ones. ( spoiler: there are none that are "good"... she's gonna be stuck with the bad ones, but hopefully they'll at least make her laugh??? )
When you are made of water, the beach becomes rather lackluster. [ He is definitely right about it being about her powers. But that doesn't mean she wouldn't enjoy it if, for example, they both went.. It's all about the people!!! ] ..Also, it is because Juvia tends to burn easily. [ This bit of information is said loud enough for only Peter to hear. It's not every day Juvia talks about the consequences of being super pale, mostly because it's a little embarrassing.
Definitely not as embarrassing as how easily her thoughts stray, but brief topic eases her heart. Even more that he takes to the idea of her guild well enough to not pass judgement on the destruction they cause.
There is no doubt in her mind he will make her laugh..... And she is not sure whether she should be sad that there's no way she can say she doesn't know what he means (the words dancing like a middleaged dad echo loudly in her skull). But at least his easy cooperation helps her forget how painfully loud she was seconds before. ] Will you need Juvia to do anything? Stay as still as a doll so you can position her, perhaps??
( he'd never thought about it that way. for his part, Peter has always liked the ocean, though he has been a little skittish about it since his spider-bite. turns out, he's unbelievably cut for a nerd, and people always stare and worse yet, ask questions. he's not really great about fibbing his way through such situations, so it's better to just avoid them.
though, he's just as much a sucker as Juvia, since Peter is also certain he'd still like visiting the beach if it meant showing Juvia it could be fun, water and all. ) We should go sometime. Maybe after sundown, so no sunburns. ( wouldn't help her on the pale front, though for the record, he doesn't think there's a problem with how she looks now. he would definitely say she looks perfect just as she is... actually, no he wouldn't. he'd never say that. friends don't talk like that, right???
even if it would probably result in them getting uncomfortably close for the sake of dance lessons if he had to move her every way he wanted her to, Peter resolutely shakes his head. ) Just follow the disaster the best you can. The best thing about dancing badly is that there is no such thing as too bad, right? It's all horrible. ( someone please save her, before it is too late... )
[ Juvia will definitely stare, cut nerdy body or otherwise, and probably make him even more miffed about going to the beach. While she won't ask questions, since she really knows everything she has to, she sure will inconspicuously put her grubby paws on him whenever fate will allow her.
The fact that he even brings up the idea of going makes her heart stir-- she'll have to go ask Leanne and Misa what swimsuit would leave the best impression..!!!! ] Juvia would love that. In fact, there's a cavern Juvia heard about that's supposed to be very romantic... [ Not the word they used to describe it, at all, but she feels safe enough to say it out loud without getting too embarrassed. She even sounds a little mischievous, if he listens to her tone hard enough.
But it shifts into something more understanding when bad dancing comes up again. ] We should go somewhere with less people. You are very.. [ A pause, because she wants to say gangly but she doesn't like how the word sounds. Or at least, sounds when she wants to describe Peter. She chews on her lip for the few seconds she takes to think over her choice in words. ] ..Big, after all. But are you sure, though? Juvia, also, follows orders very well.
( see, this is all the more reason to go when it is pitch dark out. no sunburns, no having to look at each other, everything will be just perfect! though, may the record show that Peter would probably not mind the touching. that is somehow less embarrassing than the gawking and uncomfortable questions... especially when it is done in the dark. everything is easier when one does it in the darkness... why is that?
Peter, bless his heart, has no idea how a cave could possibly be romantic. he assumes Juvia is misunderstanding the concept, because she does manage to see romance in almost everything. after they got accidentally married, one would think Peter Parker would learn to be more trusting of her romance detection, though being right on the marriage thing does not make her right on everything. Juvia was uniquely gifted in finding the romantic inclinations in even the most mundane of situations, after all. despite her slightly devious tone, he doesn't see too much reason to be concerned. how bad can a romance cave be? ) A romantic cavern, huh? Is it anything like a Tunnel of Love? ( why would you ask this, Peter... for one thing she probably has no idea what that is and for another, it sounds horribly dirty. but it's too late to take it back, it has already been said.
Peter is a great many things, however, one of the things he isn't is completely humorless about his own ridiculousness. big, huh? okay, that's fair. he laughs, shaking his head. ) Maybe that's a good idea. Less potential victims on the sidelines. ( and, more importantly, less people around to see what a horrible dancer he is. he has enough pride that he'd like to keep that on the downlow if possible. )
[ Probably because Peter won't have to endure the intense stares and (strangely) complex facial expressions she will make if they were ever Truly secluded in a cavern. It's terrifying how simple it is for her to focus all her attention on one thing, and sadly, she'd want that thing-- Peter in this case-- to be bathed in light. Blinding, super hot light. She will endure every awkward hand fumble or conversation starter if it means she can stare at his face. His hair, too. Mostly his face, maybe his arms. ]
No. It's vastly different. A romantic cavern is like getting washed up on the beach after a terrible and heart wrenching shipwreck only to discover we are the only two survivors. It also makes a very cute picnic spot. [ He is right though about both those things. Her actual talent of making everything romantic and cute, and also having no idea what the Tunnel of Love is. But the name alone gives her enough of an idea to pass judgment. ] But if Peter wanted to go in the Tunnel of Love, Juvia will not protest. [ Granted, if he wanted to go anywhere she wouldn't have an issue with it, but she thinks he already knows that enough to where she doesn't have to explain how much of a puppy she is. ] And good.
Then we can either claim a balcony, or go to the garden. [ She says, all the while packing an absurd amount of food onto a plate for him to eat later. At least she's not shoving it into her purse? ] Which would Peter prefer?
( he's really going to have to convince Juvia some things are better in the dark. Peter is too easily ashamed to be automatically at ease in a perfectly lit heavy petty session. in the dark it's just easier and your imagination and senses go hand in hand. then again, considering how strong his senses are, he might be cheating a tiny little bit on that one. okay, if not pitch darkness, then limited light??? they gotta work their way up to fully lit makeouts, if that is Juvia's kink.
okay, so, that is definitely not what he was expecting when she hit him with the phrase, "a romantic cavern". a tourist attraction, sure. a landmark that she'd found particularly striking, perhaps. being marooned doesn't sound at all romantic to him, to be honest, though if it had to happen Juvia would be one of the few people he'd trust along with him. not really for the potential romance, though... Peter isn't quite as gifted at spotting it as Juvia, it seems. ) I'm totally on for picnics, though let's avoid getting marooned if we can.
( just to be on the safe side... he's not exactly gifted at survivalism, Juvia, he would be the weak link in that situation.
since she doesn't ask him to explain what a Tunnel of Love is, he doesn't. she might be disappointed with the concept if she knew what it really was, though the likelihood of one existing on this planet was limited. she might be better off not knowing, her mental image was probably more promising than the real thing. Peter does not presume the plate she's preparing is for him, so he is mildly impressed by her appetite as he contemplates the options and decides, ) Uh, balcony? If you want? Do you want me to carry that for you?
[ If he really wanted to try and talk her down from keeping the light bill up from having the lamp on, it wouldn't take a lot.. Even if she asserted herself, and her opinion by extension, she has a rather big soft spot for Peter. She'd probably forgo her Weird Kinks just so he can have the comfort of the dark.
And sorry Peter.. there's just something inherently romantic about having to depend on each other for survival and being forced to bond through their trauma and fall in love. Deep, deep, deep in love. Okay, she doesn't say that part out loud... only implies it.
She smiles, perking up at the idea of packing a lunch for him. Something special for him to eat.. made with her own hands. And the promise of a lovey-dovey atmosphere, the lovey-dovey atmosphere she will definitely take advantage of. ] Yes.. Juvia will happily protect Peter from any intruders who wish to interrupt our private time together.. alone. [ No marooning on her watch, especially near any stray waters. Regardless, she looks a bit too satisfied with his answer, smug even.
The expression lasts on her face even as she gives a cursory sweep over the food she hasn't touched, yet. ] The balcony is secluded as well. [ A good choice, by extension..... ] And please, if you could. [ She gives a nod, briefly looking up from the table to him before gently putting the tray in his hands. That doesn't stop her from plucking one more treat off the table and onto their plate. ] Did you want something sweet to drink? Or the same thing you had before? Water, perhaps?
( truth be told, Peter is probably guilty of the same at this point. if Juvia professed a preference for light, he probably would be embarrassed yet not particularly able to refuse her. truth be told he's not exactly shy, he and Gwen had done their fair share of making out with lights on (with him half naked at that) and he hadn't thought much about it. maybe the trick is to just get on with it because after the make out starts he forgets about the mood lighting pretty quickly.
he shakes his head at the idea she will protect him from intruders on their private time. only Juvia would be worried about such a possibility. Peter would possibly comment on it if Juvia did not balance the overly full tray of food in his hands, leaving him to focus on that instead. wow, she must be hungry... ) Let's not with the last thing I had. ( he doesn't think this evening will go better if he spends it tipsy. he might be part spider, yet his mutation doesn't stop him from being a bit of a lightweight, even if his system toxins quickly. )
I'm okay. Really. ( he thinks there's a good chance his nerves would result in him spilling it or dropping it or something even worse that he can't totally imagine at the moment. in fact holding the tray might not have been a good idea either, so hopefully his spidey senses save him on this one and he doesn't end up turning their night into a disaster from throwing it at himself or even worse, her. ) Let's go, before anyone steals our spot. ( secluded sounds nice, considering how packed the gala is. truth be told, he's already ready for a bit of quiet. )
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neither did i... it snuck up on us (it doesnt help that i was 9 days late)
Cheryl had not gone so far to compliment him after he'd cleaned up for the party — she'd deemed him "acceptable" which is probably a compliment coming from Cheryl, just not really a confidence booster to most. he even skipped his glasses for this shindig, but that means he has nothing to hide behind when Juvia mentions he looks handsome. Peter isn't an arrogant kid, he knows he ranges from messy but not terrible looking at best to ... acceptable (maybe Cheryl was on to something) when he bothers. handsome really feels a stretch, yet when it is delivered so sincerely even Peter "dodge all compliments" Parker finds himself short in trying to parkour out of it. )
I... Cheryl said I couldn't show up looking like I sleep on park benches, so... Thanks. ( he laughs slightly nervously, shakes his head, and happily moves on to talking about her instead. ) I know blue is your color, but I like the yellow. It's like sunshine, bright. Sorta like you, you know? ( even Peter knows this is venturing into horrible cheese land, so he deflects with, ) Maybe we can find you a blue party hat. Then it'll be the best of both worlds.
truly it did.... (shh its ok we still beat captcha that is a win for both of us)
Her heart leaps at his words, a fresh puff of steam rolling off her person. She's never told him, or anyone for that matter, that she absolutely adores the sun. And, just as much as that, a clear sky. To Juvia, it's the most beautiful thing she's ever seen, especially since most of her life the only sky she's ever known is one full of rain. Because of that, his words take a whole new meaning outside of the heartfelt compliment. ] Juvia reminds you of the sun? Really? [ Ah!!!!! She definitely wouldn't mind staying in horrible terrible cheese land, but she's too moved to do much else other than follow the flow of conversation. ]
Oh, thank you, Peter.. [ Best of both worlds.. He is totally right. With eyes sparkling, she takes both of his hands in her own, squeezing them with vigor. Her sincerity continues, even with the extremely strange declaration of, ] Juvia will find you a bench to sleep on, too! You won't regret coming out, tonight, I promise!
HIGH FIVE TEAM!!! i can be 9 days late to everything now (i will try not to be)
considering he's party to his own steam on occasion these days, he knows that what he said made her especially emotional, and he didn't quite mean to... though, the look on her face doesn't indicate it was a bad thing. he means it, her bright personality and cheeriness reminds him a lot of sunshine, and her determination though all odds could easily be compared to sunlight trying to break through determined clouds. Juvia was known for her water and her rain, yet he saw a lot of sunshine in her, too. it was slightly sappy to admit, but he meant it.
she grabs his hands, and he doesn't find he minds, squeezing back. he'll be damned if he doesn't find this girl a blue party hat before this gala is over... at least it'll give his wallflower ass something to do, I guess. ) No benches needed, I'll probably sleep in a bed, but I appreciate the thought. ( he is charmed by her effervescent enthusiasm, as always, and he already doesn't regret it, now that he's here.
that is, for as long as he doesn't have to show Juvia the present he made, because then he's 2000% going to feel awkward and weird again. the story of his life. )
HELL YEAH!!! i will be supportive of any decision u make 9 days late or otherwise.. i got u
Um.. Juvia doesn't think there's a park nearby. [ The squeeze he gives her in return makes her smile bashfully, the gesture giving her the reassurance she needs to stay out of her comfort zone. Covering all of your body 24/7 makes for a drastic change when most, if not all, your limbs are exposed. And even though he's done so little, she already feels light. At ease, if she wants to try and phrase it properly. ] So a bed might have to do. [ It only reminds her the inevitability that this, hopefully magical, night will end.. She perks before she can dwell on it too much. ]
Would you like Juvia to get some drinks, first, before going somewhere private? [ Despite her choice of words (no nefarious intentions here when she says private, strictly PG), she wants this experience to be shared between just the two of them. Also because she refuses for anyone to peak in and ruin the moment for them, party be damned. Even with loitering around the very bustling entrance of the gala, she has an inkling of a few quiet places for the two of them to go to, if that's what he wishes.
Pointedly, she doesn't let go of his hands, instead swaying them slightly. ] Or did you want to explore the gala? Even though they can be overwhelming, they're also fun.
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there probably isn't a park nearby, she's right. it isn't even a joke yet it still manages to amuse him, just from her utmost sincerity in the confession. ) Ah, well, I sort of like sleeping in a bed. Not sure I'd fit on a bench, anyway. ( even if his bed wasn't an option, Peter probably would just sleep stuck to a wall cuddled in a corner and I WISH I WAS KIDDING BUT CANONICALLY HE DID THIS. overall, it's good that both of them have managed to talk about his bed without losing it over the implications of it. they're really growing up...
he's been dying to know what is in the gift she gave him, the one carefully tucked into his pocket... but, when she inquires after whether he'd like to explore the party or just get it over with, the answer is pretty easy. ) We came all the way here, right? We should see what they have to offer. ( even if he's not a party person, Peter isn't completely against them, either. he likes to have fun on rare occasions that he let himself, and he did come here for a reason. and Juvia is pretty much that reason, so he's not in a rush to finish their gift exchange and spend the rest of his night wallflowering. )
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You're too big to fit, Juvia thinks. [ She emphasizes it with a stretch of her hand up, just to remind him of his height. ] But if you want, you can sleep in one of Juvia's bubbles.. I'll even make it so you won't drown. [ Probably the most heartfelt thing she's said thus far, the fact that she will deliberately keep him alive in one of her trademark floating bubbles of water instead of dying..... tru luv ]
Perfect. [ She didn't have plans for them to just head home after they opened their gifts, anyway, so hearing him agree only encourages her enthusiasm. Juvia takes pride in a lot of things— like her ability to make friends, her tenacity in the pursuit of love, and how stubborn she is. Sadly, Peter won't know what exactly is in that mystery little box of hers until they settle somewhere by themselves.
She leads him with the remaining hand still grasping his, pushing through the crowd of people to avoid any unnecessary interation (i.e. everyone who isn't Peter). She even manages to ignore the insistent volunteers at the door in favor of waltzing inside. ] Do you like to dance? [ She only asks once she slows her stride, grip a little less firm, as she observes the main area of the gathering. ]
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they should definitely get matching hoodies to protect their body temperature and their ever important aesthetic, though.
he definitely is too big, and it'd be a pretty impressively sized bubble to toss him in too, for that matter. ) Ah, Juvia. Always looking out for me, aren't you? ( not drowning him in bubbles he really doesn't need to sleep in to begin with... it's so thoughtful. the playful sarcasm is at least slightly better than his dumb jokes, though. barely.
Peter is less talented at ignoring the volunteers, if only because he's pretty horrible at saying no to people. he's definitely the guy who gets cologne sprayed in his face because he doesn't have the heart to ignore even overenthusiastic shopgirls armed with samples. however, since Juvia is leading him in a beeline into the party, he has an excuse for only mumbling a few apologies and ignoring their attempts to hand out buttons. wonder what that's about. )
Have you ever heard the expression "White guys can't dance"? Well, they probably made that observation after seeing me doing my absolute best, so... ( long story short, Peter generally feels too awkward to dance, though truth be told he has managed it before. it just takes some convincing to get him to ty. )
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Taking care of him, hypothetically or not, is her job through and through. If it means letting him get his fingers prune-y in her magic, just to sleep—or pass out? she hasn't thought about the details yet— just say the word. But if he wants to do something to detract them from their privately built atmosphere, the one that makes her feel giddy about their time together, it simply won't happen. Buttons? More like another thing in her way of a nice evening with her roommate, friend, and definitely not her date?
Realistically, they'll both probably have to deal with that at a later time when they come full circle, but that's not something she's concerned about. Juvia, not being from New York City, does not know what the hell that expression (white people? ??? can't dance??) is, but nods anyway. One day she'll tell him she has no idea what he's talking about... ]
Oh.. [ Ah, cute.. She doesn't bother hiding the amusement she feels at figuring out what he means. It makes sense that he wouldn't be good at it, it's exactly how she imagined it to be. She feels disgustingly endeared to the way he tries to explain it, even if he is putting himself down in the process. ] Would you be willing to show Juvia your absolute best tonight?
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the phrase "white guys can't dance" isn't the most off the wall colloquialism he's thrown her way, in fact it's almost self explanatory. still, if she ever did stop him in the middle of his nonsense, one of these days maybe he'd learn to avoid pop culture references. ...maybe. it's sort of like asking a fish not to swim, yet a determined fish might try.
Peter was rather afraid she might ask that. he does his best to convince people how terrible he is at dancing in the hopes no one would be brave enough to ask. he's not sure if he's endeared by the fact Juvia would risk it or terrified that if he agrees she'll realize he was definitely right all along. he's suddenly a little warmer and a little redder than he was a few seconds ago, though when they swing by the refreshments he can hide this by taking whatever drink looks coldest and closest and drinking it all in one swallow.
...ah, great, that was definitely alcoholic. he makes a face at the taste, though the liquid courage might have something to do with him fighting the burn of his nerves to offer, ) Uhm. Well. I guess. If you wanted to, I mean. ( hopefully he doesn't break out a panic sprinkler and bus driver, because then they will probably never speak again. )
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Just like now, how she follows him and even mimics his actions. Actions like taking a drink for herself just to nurse it instead of swallowing it all in one go like he did. When she's desperate enough for her own dose of courage, or stupidity depending on how you squint, she'll resort to this very same table to help her out. The face he makes is even more cute, her smile stretching as she thinks this over and over even as he confirms his fate for a better part of the night. ] Juvia would want to, yes. [ Even if he were to embarrass both of them she'd still hang out with him, no questions asked.
Although, she hopes that'd be the same if she were to do the same. It wouldn't be the first time she turned a public event into a disaster because of her crazy, definitely delusional, plans. ] Juvia doesn't dance all too often, either.. so she's not sure how much support she can give you on the dance floor. [ Or if these people will even tolerate their shenanigans— ] I will try my best, regardless.
[ And with nails tapping at the side of the glass she holds, she tilts her head. ] ..Maybe, you can teach some of your moves to me?
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Peter catches the smile as he shakes off the sour face he'd been wearing, though he has no idea what prompted it. probably for the best, though he can't be horribly put out at the idea she's smiling. Juvia has been through a lot, even just in the past few months — it is good to see her happy. it makes him smile in return,
even though he has no clue what has prompted it. turns out as long as she's happy, he's pretty happy himself. )
You don't? I guess, Fairy Tale didn't leave you much time for that? ( he has no actual clue, he's gently trying to understand her life a bit better. as for his part, ) Slow dancing isn't so hard. But if you want to dance like a middleaged dad, then I am your guy.
( that wasn't exactly a no, though, so someone please save Juvia before he teaches her the cabbage patch Juvia deserves better than this. )
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It's this moment she chooses to take a sip from her drink as she mulls over her choices. The romantic part of her brain, arguably the dumbest, screams slow dancing just for the chance to be closer to him. ] Juvia.. [ Speaking of, dancing like a middleaged dad should not sound appealing, at all, coming from Peter's mouth.
Mouth!! ] Juvia wants to.. [ Mouth!!! Her eyes stare at his lips far longer than necessary. Not in a tension filled "We need to kiss immediately" kind of way, but the "I'm suddenly hyper aware that we've kissed before, and now I can't stop staring at your lips?" kind of way. Juvia has the decency to look away when realizing it, clearing her throat and trying her hardest to enthusiastically stay on topic. ] ..To learn everything. All of your moves. Anything you want to give to Juvia, she will take!
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he's notably incredibly nonplussed by the idea Fairy Tale were troublemakers. Juvia is talking to a vigilante here. he's spread his fair share of trouble. it's just a matter of the heart being in the right place, right?
as for staring at his mouth... lacking the tension, he doesn't quite understand what the fixation is. baffled, he rubs at his mouth and jaw like somehow he must have something on his face that might merit staring. so, for the record, he's not always enormously perceptive on this stuff. in fact, he's rarely perceptive. ) For your own sake, I'll try and only give you the good ones. ( spoiler: there are none that are "good"... she's gonna be stuck with the bad ones, but hopefully they'll at least make her laugh??? )
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Definitely not as embarrassing as how easily her thoughts stray, but brief topic eases her heart. Even more that he takes to the idea of her guild well enough to not pass judgement on the destruction they cause.
There is no doubt in her mind he will make her laugh..... And she is not sure whether she should be sad that there's no way she can say she doesn't know what he means (the words dancing like a middleaged dad echo loudly in her skull). But at least his easy cooperation helps her forget how painfully loud she was seconds before. ] Will you need Juvia to do anything? Stay as still as a doll so you can position her, perhaps??
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though, he's just as much a sucker as Juvia, since Peter is also certain he'd still like visiting the beach if it meant showing Juvia it could be fun, water and all. ) We should go sometime. Maybe after sundown, so no sunburns. ( wouldn't help her on the pale front, though for the record, he doesn't think there's a problem with how she looks now. he would definitely say she looks perfect just as she is... actually, no he wouldn't. he'd never say that. friends don't talk like that, right???
even if it would probably result in them getting uncomfortably close for the sake of dance lessons if he had to move her every way he wanted her to, Peter resolutely shakes his head. ) Just follow the disaster the best you can. The best thing about dancing badly is that there is no such thing as too bad, right? It's all horrible. ( someone please save her, before it is too late... )
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The fact that he even brings up the idea of going makes her heart stir-- she'll have to go ask Leanne and Misa what swimsuit would leave the best impression..!!!! ] Juvia would love that. In fact, there's a cavern Juvia heard about that's supposed to be very romantic... [ Not the word they used to describe it, at all, but she feels safe enough to say it out loud without getting too embarrassed. She even sounds a little mischievous, if he listens to her tone hard enough.
But it shifts into something more understanding when bad dancing comes up again. ] We should go somewhere with less people. You are very.. [ A pause, because she wants to say gangly but she doesn't like how the word sounds. Or at least, sounds when she wants to describe Peter. She chews on her lip for the few seconds she takes to think over her choice in words. ] ..Big, after all. But are you sure, though? Juvia, also, follows orders very well.
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Peter, bless his heart, has no idea how a cave could possibly be romantic. he assumes Juvia is misunderstanding the concept, because she does manage to see romance in almost everything. after they got accidentally married, one would think Peter Parker would learn to be more trusting of her romance detection, though being right on the marriage thing does not make her right on everything. Juvia was uniquely gifted in finding the romantic inclinations in even the most mundane of situations, after all. despite her slightly devious tone, he doesn't see too much reason to be concerned. how bad can a romance cave be? ) A romantic cavern, huh? Is it anything like a Tunnel of Love? ( why would you ask this, Peter... for one thing she probably has no idea what that is and for another, it sounds horribly dirty. but it's too late to take it back, it has already been said.
Peter is a great many things, however, one of the things he isn't is completely humorless about his own ridiculousness. big, huh? okay, that's fair. he laughs, shaking his head. ) Maybe that's a good idea. Less potential victims on the sidelines. ( and, more importantly, less people around to see what a horrible dancer he is. he has enough pride that he'd like to keep that on the downlow if possible. )
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No. It's vastly different. A romantic cavern is like getting washed up on the beach after a terrible and heart wrenching shipwreck only to discover we are the only two survivors. It also makes a very cute picnic spot. [ He is right though about both those things. Her actual talent of making everything romantic and cute, and also having no idea what the Tunnel of Love is. But the name alone gives her enough of an idea to pass judgment. ] But if Peter wanted to go in the Tunnel of Love, Juvia will not protest. [ Granted, if he wanted to go anywhere she wouldn't have an issue with it, but she thinks he already knows that enough to where she doesn't have to explain how much of a puppy she is. ] And good.
Then we can either claim a balcony, or go to the garden. [ She says, all the while packing an absurd amount of food onto a plate for him to eat later. At least she's not shoving it into her purse? ] Which would Peter prefer?
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okay, so, that is definitely not what he was expecting when she hit him with the phrase, "a romantic cavern". a tourist attraction, sure. a landmark that she'd found particularly striking, perhaps. being marooned doesn't sound at all romantic to him, to be honest, though if it had to happen Juvia would be one of the few people he'd trust along with him. not really for the potential romance, though... Peter isn't quite as gifted at spotting it as Juvia, it seems. ) I'm totally on for picnics, though let's avoid getting marooned if we can.
( just to be on the safe side... he's not exactly gifted at survivalism, Juvia, he would be the weak link in that situation.
since she doesn't ask him to explain what a Tunnel of Love is, he doesn't. she might be disappointed with the concept if she knew what it really was, though the likelihood of one existing on this planet was limited. she might be better off not knowing, her mental image was probably more promising than the real thing. Peter does not presume the plate she's preparing is for him, so he is mildly impressed by her appetite as he contemplates the options and decides, ) Uh, balcony? If you want? Do you want me to carry that for you?
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And sorry Peter.. there's just something inherently romantic about having to depend on each other for survival and being forced to bond through their trauma and fall in love. Deep, deep, deep in love. Okay, she doesn't say that part out loud... only implies it.
She smiles, perking up at the idea of packing a lunch for him. Something special for him to eat.. made with her own hands. And the promise of a lovey-dovey atmosphere, the lovey-dovey atmosphere she will definitely take advantage of. ] Yes.. Juvia will happily protect Peter from any intruders who wish to interrupt our private time together.. alone. [ No marooning on her watch, especially near any stray waters. Regardless, she looks a bit too satisfied with his answer, smug even.
The expression lasts on her face even as she gives a cursory sweep over the food she hasn't touched, yet. ] The balcony is secluded as well. [ A good choice, by extension..... ] And please, if you could. [ She gives a nod, briefly looking up from the table to him before gently putting the tray in his hands. That doesn't stop her from plucking one more treat off the table and onto their plate. ] Did you want something sweet to drink? Or the same thing you had before? Water, perhaps?
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he shakes his head at the idea she will protect him from intruders on their private time. only Juvia would be worried about such a possibility. Peter would possibly comment on it if Juvia did not balance the overly full tray of food in his hands, leaving him to focus on that instead. wow, she must be hungry... ) Let's not with the last thing I had. ( he doesn't think this evening will go better if he spends it tipsy. he might be part spider, yet his mutation doesn't stop him from being a bit of a lightweight, even if his system toxins quickly. )
I'm okay. Really. ( he thinks there's a good chance his nerves would result in him spilling it or dropping it or something even worse that he can't totally imagine at the moment. in fact holding the tray might not have been a good idea either, so hopefully his spidey senses save him on this one and he doesn't end up turning their night into a disaster from throwing it at himself or even worse, her. ) Let's go, before anyone steals our spot. ( secluded sounds nice, considering how packed the gala is. truth be told, he's already ready for a bit of quiet. )