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mara-xx217 · 1 year

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A Pair Forever- Bob's Burgers x OC Fic: Ch.4 Merry Christmas

It's only... *looks at calendar* A little over a month late but hey! It's here and it's the LONGEST commission I've done to date at a whopping 11,800 words so yeah💀

For @akashakushrenada I hope you enjoy!~

xxx

At Ocean’s Avenue, one of two things always happened during the winter months. The weather is always gloomy but it’s a fifty-fifty shot between a light smattering of snow that wouldn’t amount to anything or so much snow that there was a decent chance that the shoddy infrastructure would collapse, or at least become damaged, by all the weight of the super wet and heavy snow. It was only the beginning of winter- barely the beginning, but the weather was leaning towards the latter in being thick. Not a blizzard but the flakes were large and fell down in a sort of slush on the ground. Ordinarily, Grover would hate this kind of weather, but with Akasha at his side? Everything was so much more enjoyable.

Akasha didn’t talk much about holidays or about her early life in general. It was perfectly fine with Grover. She was her own person and she is allowed to share or not share whatever she wishes with him. He is her husband-to-be and he will never repeat a certain mistake he made hardly a month ago-

Grover sort of but not exactly celebrated Christmas. It was a nice holiday… as long as you had someone to spend it with. He couldn’t even remember the last time he actually celebrated the holiday- or any holiday, really- but it was nice that this was the first he and Akasha would be spending as a not quite but almost married couple.

“Subtle, subtle, darling! Let’s not do too much, yes?”

Akasha wasn’t exactly hesitant but she was a little… guarded when Grover suggested they decorate for the holiday. She didn’t seem upset with him or with the suggestion, but there was… something left unsaid. Grover didn’t and wouldn’t bring any attention to it. Akasha has lived a long life and she’s had her fair share of misery. He didn’t want to push their established boundaries and make her feel uncomfortable or vulnerable when she wasn’t ready or willing to do so.

Grover was happy Akasha agreed to go pick out a Christmas tree with him. He didn’t exactly expect her to say ‘no’ or anything, but she has been rather reserved when it comes to the holiday. They decided on getting a real tree instead of one that was plastic. It was Akasha’s idea so of course Grover agreed excitedly. They made an entire day out of it- a ‘date day’, so to speak. It was the first time in many, many years that Grover had so much fun in regards to a holiday. Akasha hasn’t said it aloud, but he’s sure she’s just like him.

The tree they picked wasn’t too big but not small or bare, either. It was the perfect size to not be too cumbersome while still filling up their living room nicely. While they were out together, they stopped at the local big box store to look at some Christmas decorations. Nothing too gaudy or flashy, just something to liven up the tree and the living room just a touch more so they could really get into the Christmas spirit. They settled on some rather mild, if not plain, decorations. Grover wasn’t too keen on getting something fancy- at least, not yet. Akasha had no complaints, so perhaps she agreed with him? Or at the very least, she was indifferent.

As they were decorating the tree together, Akasha was smiling. It was a little faint, a little sad, even. She was fiddling with the lights absentmindedly when she spoke up for the first time that evening.

“It’s sort of funny… Do you know how long it has been since I’ve celebrated this holiday?” Grover paused in his decorating and turned to give her his full attention. The sad smile grew a little larger and deeper on her face.

“It’s been… centuries- Many centuries, actually.” Grover nearly dropped the ornament he was holding.

Hundreds of years?! Multiple Centuries?! The length of time wasn’t, itself, surprising. Grover knew Akasha was centuries old, but that means that she hasn’t celebrated the holiday most of her life! But… she did, once upon a time. Was this really okay? Was he pushing on something that was still sore? Grover was happy she was doing this with him but he didn’t want her to do this if it was painful for her-

“Darling? I can hear your heartbeat, you know? It’s beating out of your chest.” Akasha hung another ornament then turned to face Grover. The quality of her smile changed slightly. It was… warmer. Lighter.Grover picked at the round ornament in his hands, swallowing as he struggled to find the right words he wanted to say. Akasha giggled and cupped his cheek with her icy hand.

“It’s alright, Grover… I wouldn’t do something if I didn’t wish to do so. You know this…” She placed a gentle kiss to his lips and rested her forehead against his. Grover nodded, taking a deep breath as he tried to calm his nerves.

Grover’s anxiety didn’t quite leave him but he was still excited for celebrating his first Christmas with Akasha. He wanted it to be something wonderful for Akasha’s sake. When it came to putting the topper on the tree- it was just a simple star, since neither of them were too keen on going over the top- he asked Akasha if he could (try) to lift her up so she could reach it instead of using a step stool. Grover’s heart skipped a beat when Akasha beamed up at him and excitedly said “Of course, darling!” while lifting her arms up into the air.

Oh God- Grover was terrified when he wrapped his arms around Akasha’s waist. What if he drops her? What if he can’t even pick her up?! Akasha wouldn’t mind, right…? No, she wouldn’t. It would be just a silly little moment and nothing more! She would never laugh at him out of cruelty or malice. Grover wasn’t confident but he wasn’t losing steam, either. He lifted her with his knees and- Holy shit-! He’s doing it!!

Akasha wasn’t heavy- not at all- but Grover was a shrimpy little lawyer who wasn’t in the best shape and he knows it. It’s fine, though, it’s never really bothered him that much…. Though he has been going to the gym biweekly to try and build some muscle mass (so much for that). But he was actually doing it! Grover picked Akasha up- with some effort- and she giggled in glee as she fitted the topper on the top most point of the tree.

Grover grunted and nearly squeaked as Akasha dropped back down into his arms with her full weight. What if he dropped her or something?! She landed on her feet and spun around so that she was facing him. Throwing her arms around his neck, Akasha drug him down into a kiss.

“I love you so much, Darling…”

God… he loved her too…

The December month was dark but neither Grover nor Akasha really minded all that much. The blinds in their apartment are thick and always drawn closed for Akasha’s comfort and it wasn’t much of a change for Grover. Now that they have their Christmas tree up and lit, they use that as their main source of lighting. It’s both festive and convenient! Akasha wondered aloud if they should invest in some fairy lights for the off season. Just a little something for colour without making it too bright! Grover certainly didn’t mind the thought…

In fact, he was thinking about it when his phone suddenly began to ring.

Ugh, Calvin… Grover already knew what he wanted but he really didn’t want to talk to him or explain to him why he didn’t want to participate in… that, so he simply muted his ringer and left his phone on top of the coffee table. Every two to three minutes it would buzz. Repeatedly. It vibrated so much that it nearly fell off the table. Grover did nothing to stop it; he merely watched it crawl across the table boredly.

“You know he won’t stop, Darling…” Grover sighed as he rested his chin on his palm.

“Mhmm-” Again it’s buzzing.

“How needy… He truly won’t cease until he gets what he wants… What does he want, anyhow?” Grover felt the couch cushion sink as Akasha took a seat beside him. He sighed and slumped in defeat.

“Ugh- There’s this ‘little’-” Grover emphasized the word with air quotes as he scowled. “-gathering at the Fischoeder Manor that Calvin insists on every single year at Christmas and he may or may not be a little upset that I haven’t RSVPed this year.” He sunk into Akasha’s side as she wrapped an arm around him.

This wasn’t a surprise to her. Calvin was as tenacious as he was stupid. Grover hasn’t mentioned it aloud, but Akasha already knew that he wanted to be as far away from him as he physically and emotionally could be given what happened the last time they spoke. Akasha has already forgiven Grover for what happened, and though Calvin certainly… annoyed her with his prying and spying, she couldn’t help but to feel a grain of appreciation for what he did for Grover.

Calvin was a self-centered asshole, but when it came down to it, he tried to look out for Grover when he could have just as easily ignored what he saw and went on with his life like it never happened. There was more to what he saw, of course, but it was easy to make that assumption and Akasha doesn’t fault Grover for how he reacted. Still, they both know there’s only one way that this can end.

“You should at least acknowledge him, Grover. You know he won’t stop until you do-” Grover pursed his lips and nudged his phone away from the table’s edge with the tip of his foot.

“Oooor I could just… change my number?” He glanced over to her with a raised brow. Akasha giggled a little, but she knew he wasn’t serious. Well… he was, but he quickly realized that it was beyond pointless. Calvin owns literally everything in Ocean’s Avenue and he would find out what his new number was by the end of the day.

“Hmm…What about this as a compromise?” Grover sat up, interested.

“We go to the party and you can use it as a platform to announce our engagement?”

“Akasha… are you suggesting that we rub our engagement in their faces?” He leaned in close to her. She fluttered her long eyelashes and chewed her lower lip as she shifted in her seat.

“Perhaps…” Grover kissed her on the lips.

“God, I love you so much…”

This discussion did get him thinking: Akasha needed a ring! And not just any ring, but the perfect ring! Grover didn’t give a shit about what anyone else thought of it, only Akasha’s opinion mattered to him. He debated on if he should take her with him, just so that he’s certain she likes what he gets her. But… Grover decides against it in the end. He isn’t confident in many things, but when Akasha is involved? He knows that he needs to trust his gut more and actually act on what it tells him.

The sale’s clerks were so damn annoying with how they followed him around the store and constantly asked him if he needed any help.

“Are you looking for anything in particular? Anything special for that special someone? Perhaps you would like to see our-” Grover felt his eye twitch in annoyance.

“I… really appreciate it, but I’m good. Thanks.” He strained through gritted teeth. Being a Ficshoder is nice and all (wait- no, it isn’t) but Grover was sick of these damn brown-nosers stepping on his heels every other step he took! Once he finally had some space, Grover was able to take in the different kinds of rings they had to offer.

There’s so many… And so many that were just… gaudy! Genuinely hideous… Rings that were too small with rocks too big, rings that were so typical they were offensive, things that were too unique or trying too hard to be ‘different’ or ‘quirky’... Maybe he should have invited Akasha along with him after all… But- there was something that caught his eye.

Grover wasn’t really a ring person, so maybe he has a bad eye for these things…. But a particular ring was calling out to him. It was a little flashy, but it wasn’t exactly over the top either. There was a large gem as a centerpiece, a dark blue diamond, maybe? It had other gems encrusted around it, a sort of green blue that was a shade lighter than the diamond they surrounded. Grover couldn’t help but to think of the beach, where Akasha showed him those little bioluminescent creatures in the water that lit up every step they took. It’s…

It’s got to be the one, right?

He was surprised at how confident he was over his decision. He had looked over the entire store- twice- and no other rings stood out to him. There was a possibility that Akasha wouldn’t like it… but if he didn’t get this one, Grover had a feeling that he would regret it. He had made up his mind. He would try to not get disappointed if- if!- Akasha didn’t like it. But Grover had a feeling that she would appreciate the sentiment behind him getting this specific ring. So regardless of its price tag, he bought it, genuinely excited to gift it to Akasha on Christmas day.

Akasha knew that he had gotten her a ring when he returned from shopping, but she didn’t mention it. Grover saw the little glint of excitement in her eyes but she did nothing other than hug and give him a welcoming kiss. He already had it wrapped up, but that little box couldn’t really be mistaken for anything else, especially when he caught her spying at him from the corner of the doorway into their living room.

That night, they both decided to step out onto the balcony and enjoy the winter air. It was… cold, so cold that Grover was bundled up in a sweater, jacket and blanket. Meanwhile, Akasha was completely content in nothing but her thin nightgown, though Grover was sure to drape the blanket around her as he held her close. He knew that she wasn’t cold like he was, but it still felt wrong to have her exposed to the elements while he was all bundled up and warm.

“Grover- Darling? Are you cold? Perhaps you should take the blanket and I-” Akasha tried to shuffle away from him, but he pulled her back to his side.

“C’mon, Akasha… Look at me! I’m fine! I can’t help but to worry about you, though… You’re always freezing-” Grover made sure the blanket was snuggly around her body as he looked at her, concerned. She couldn’t help but to giggle as she rested her head on his shoulder.

“Darling… just because I feel cold to the touch does not mean I am cold, necessarily! Vampires don’t experience temperature changes like humans do.” Ah-

Yeah… How could Grover forget that? It was a little embarrassing, but he was grateful that Akasha took the concern for what it was and not that he was a complete idiot. Still, even though he is freezing his ass off, it was nice to enjoy the quiet with Akasha.

Though it was snowing, the air was mostly still and calm. It could have been eerie if he were alone. But he wasn’t. He had Akasha at his side. Grover had his fiance at his side. His cheeks began to warm a little and his heart skipped a beat.

His fiance-

“Um- A-Are you sure you want to go to the Christmas party…? I mean- It is Calvin and Felix we’re talking about. It might not be-” Grover was beginning to trip over his own words. What was he even trying to say? He was anxious. Not because he was announcing his engagement, no, that gave him confidence and strength. But his cousins-

“Grover- Darling, if you are this uncertain… I could always compel them…” Grover turned to look at her. He knew of compelling, but he still didn’t exactly understand what it was.

“Compel him?”

“It is how I control the humans I both gather blood from and feed from. My past lovers? That is how my secret has stayed safe for over five hundred years. Think of it as… mind control? It is a little difficult to explain, but this is how I compel, or order, them to be quiet, not to touch me, and to forget both the encounter and my face.” Grover shrank in on himself a little.

He still felt so, so guilty about how he made a total ass of himself to Akasha when she’s literally doing the bare necessity to survive in a world that despises her existence. As he opens his mouth to apologize (for what might be the hundredth time) Akasha stops him.

“Grover? It’s okay, you know? Water under the bridge for us. I appreciate you for asking me.” Her eyes were a little tired but her smile was genuine. He smiled back at her, then knitted his brows together when she smirked at him.

“I could always compel Calvin to forget he ever saw me at the brothel…” Grover’s immediate reaction was to say ‘no’, yet he hesitated as he thought over her proposal.

She could, but- Well- Ugh…

“Nah… I don’t think that will be necessary, Akasha. I’m not ashamed of you. We can handle him together.”

Silence fell between them. Something comfortable, unlike anything Grover has ever experienced with another person. Other than with Akasha, of course. She became antsy and soon she was tugging on his sleeve and beckoning him back inside. Grover knew she was doing it for his sake, likely because he was shivering and shifting around a little uncomfortable. She’s so cute… He didn’t need to be convinced to return to the warmth of their apartment.

Grover made a pot of coffee for them both. There were a lot of things that he didn’t understand about vampires- drinking and eating being at the top of the list. Akasha rarely ate, but she did. Occasionally, anyway. And she drank water, coffee, tea- Was it more like junk food to them? Not nutritious but something that they could still digest? He nearly missed Akasha putting on some Christmas music as she called him to join her once he was finished. He smiled to himself. He’s glad that Akasha has really started to enjoy the holiday in her own way and on her own terms.

As he was getting the cups, he paused. An intrusive thought forced its way up from the back of his mind.

Why not put a few drops of your blood into her coffee?

That was… hmm… It couldn’t hurt, right? A little surprise! Maybe she wouldn’t like it… but she can always tell him as such and that’ll be that! Grover had already convinced himself, so he grabbed a knife and pricked the tip of his finger. It didn’t hurt- not really- and he quickly squeezed a few drops into her drink before he quickly dropped the knife into a sink full of slightly dirty sink water. His finger had pretty much stopped bleeding by the time he reentered the living room.

“Darling? Is everything alright? I-I think I smell blood…” Shit-

Akasha was sitting on the couch, biting her lower lip as she looked him over. Concern knitted her brows together but he could see that she was a little… Hmph-

“Y-Yeah? Y-Yes! Everything is fine, honey! I-I might have slightly p-pricked myself on… something or another in there while I was l-looking for a… spoon.” Damn, he sucks at lying. Grover handed her the ceramic mug full of her coffee (bloody coffee? eh-) and he took a seat beside her, struggling to look as innocent as he possibly could. Akasha nearly seemed suspicious but she seemed to shrug it off as she set her cup down on a coaster.

Whew…

There was a sort of vague, Christmassy instrumental playing on their radio. They both leaned on one another, simply enjoying one another’s company. Akasha playfully tugged him closer and Grover didn’t stop himself from falling directly into her lap. It was… God, this was nice. He was going to marry this woman… She wants to marry him… It gave him butterflies. Akasha looked down at him and smiled as she combed through his curly locks with her slender fingers.

“A-Akasha…?”

“Hmm?” Her cool thumb caresses his forehead.

“I- Do you- I-I don’t know how to ask this…” She smiled and laughed softly.

“Just ask, Darling. You can ask me anything.” Grover could feel his heart beating out of his chest.

“When- Do you- Ugh, okay… H-How do you want to marry me…?” Akasha furrowed her brows, not hurt or disappointed by the question but genuinely confused. Grover bit the inside of his cheek.

“O-Okay- I mean- D-Do you want to- to turn me before or after we are m-married?” His voice squeaked a little at the end. His confidence left him the moment those words left his mouth. Akasha’s face didn’t change much, perhaps she became a little more thoughtful. She absentmindedly toyed with his curls as she thought.

A part of him was terrified of her answer. Would she be annoyed with the question? Was it wrong of him to ask? Is this a sensitive subject? He started to panic a little. Akasha stroked his head and leaned down to kiss him on the forehead.

“Do you want my honest opinion?” Grover’s soul felt like it nearly left his body.

“Y-Yes?”

“Well… I would like to marry you as a vampire, darling… Our- Vampire joining ceremonies are very… how to say… intimate? It is very different from traditional human weddings. I have only witnessed a handful of marriages between vampires in my life and I have always longed to have one of my own someday…” Akasha had a sort of far away, dreamy look on her face. Her eyes were unfocused, as though she were remembering a nearly forgotten memory. She blinked and looked down at Grover then smiled.

“Though… I do not mind either way. I wish to marry you, and your comfort matters more to me. This is… well, this will be a very intense change for you, so I wish to ensure your comfort first and foremost-” Akasha had barely finished her sentence when Grover blurted out.

“Then we’ll marry as vampires!” She looked surprised.

“Well, Darling-!” Grover silenced her with a kiss. Every time she tried to speak he did so, slowly shifting back up until he was properly seated again.

“We will marry as vampires, Akasha…” She fluttered her eyelashes, looking a bit girlish but happy as she nodded.

“S-So be it, then!” She giggled as she hugged him. Akasha then leaned over and grabbed both of their now (mostly) lukewarm and room temperature coffees.

“Here, Darling! Let’s not waste it, hmm?” She smiled as she took a sip of her drink. Grover took it and- before he could even get his lips on the ceramic glass- was shoved back and pinned to the couch hard enough to knock the wind from his lungs. The contents of his cup flew everywhere and before he could think of what to say, Akasha’s face shut him up.

He’s seen that look before. It was feral, blood hungry, horny… Her eyes were red and he could feel her trembling on top of him. Akasha asked him what he thought he was doing.

“W-What? Oh… n-nothing, honey! I-I just-” Grover was terrified but also was insanely turned on when Akasha dragged her sharp nails down the side of his face. She didn’t scratch him, she didn’t leave any marks, but he could feel how dangerous she could be if she so chose to do so.

“Grover, Darling…. I know your blood anywhere…” She purred. She grabbed him by the front of his jacket and picked him up off the couch like he was- shit, he couldn’t even think! She placed a heated and toothy kiss on his lips.

“You certainly know how to get my attention, my Love… “ He barely blinked and he was suddenly moved to the bedroom. His back collided with the bed. His head was swimming- Oh shit it happened so fast! Grover is disoriented, confused, terrified and extremely turned on! He could only look up at Akasha, a little guilty, a little bit mischievous, as she straddled his lap and tore at the front of his jacket.

“Oh… I love you so much…” She purred as she proceeded to rock his entire world.

Christmas morning, Grover woke up early- extremely early. He couldn’t remember the last time that he was excited for Christmas! Grover must have been a child…. He wasn’t unlike a kid right now, silently vibrating in place and waiting impatiently for his (mother) girlfriend to wake up and-

Not girlfriend, fiance.

It was still hitting him in waves. He’s getting married! To Akasha! She was the first person to ever make him feel like- well… like a person. Grover hoped that she liked the ring that he got her… God, he can’t wait to give it to her! Would she be mad if he woke her up…? Okay, that’s just childish! Today will be a long day… They both need their rest. If he can’t sleep then he shouldn’t bother her and disrupt her sleep schedule merely because he is too excited to sleep.

Grover wasn’t as strong as he thought himself to be. It was nearly five-fourty in the morning when he gently shook Akasha awake. ‘Gently’ is based on perspective though. Waking up, it’s always- not violent, necessarily- a process. It’s always a little startling hearing her gasp awake, prepared to fight or run at any moment, but then his heart melts when her eyes find his and she instantly relaxes.

“Oh… Hmm- Good morning, Grover Darling…” Akasha sat up, the covers pooling around her waist as she rubbed her eyes with the side of her hand. She stretched a little- she was always reminiscent of a cat, Grover thought- groaning softly as she reached out to him. Grover wrapped his arms around her and gave her a warm kiss.

“Good morning, Honey! I-I hope you don’t mind, but I woke you up a little early this morning! I was- S-Sorry, I was just so excited for you to open the- the gift I got you that I just-!” Akasha silenced him with a lopsided kiss.

“Hrmm- Darling? You worry too much. I don’t need nearly as much sleep as you do, don’t you know?” Grover felt his face heat up a little. Oh. Right… Akasha giggled and smoothed down his bed head.

“It’s alright, Darling. That’s why I love you… You are so considerate even when you needn’t be.” Then, a smirk tugged at the corners of her lips.

“Well?! Come on, Grover! Let’s open our gifts!” Akasha giggled as she tugged him out of bed.

They didn’t get dressed, though they did bring some blankets for some added comfort. Especially on Grover’s part. He’s started to figure out that while Akasha may not get cold, per se, she does like the texture and the extra weight that added layers give her. He had a lot to learn going forward… It was a little daunting, but with Akasha being his teacher, he was surprisingly confident and even excited!

They didn’t get one another much, but what they lacked in quantity they made up for in quality. Akasha was excited for Grover to open her gift first. How could he say no to her? He started to sweat once he saw it was a little box- similar in size and (of course) shape to the gift that he got her. Wouldn’t it be funny if they both got one another a ring? He wouldn't be mad- no, in fact, he’d find it a little endearing. Still, regardless of what it could be, he was thrilled that she got him something and didn’t want her to judge his shifting heart rate as anything other than joy and gratitude.

“Go on, Darling! Open them!” Akasha scooted closer to Grover. Grover really did feel like this was his first Christmas in an entire lifetime. Christmas music quietly played in the background, he and Akasha sat on the food near the tree, covered in blankets and still in their sleeping clothes… He grinned and began to tear open the wrapping paper.

It certainly was a small box. Grover could feel a flustered giggle rise to the back of his throat. He looked over to Akasha, beaming, and she nodded, smiling herself and wanting him to get on with it. Grover opened it, his heart pounding in his ears and his stomach nervous butterflies. He blinked in surprise at what laid inside.

Cufflinks… Cute, little things that are… cabbages? Grover was hit with a sudden surge of emotion. He knows why Akasha gifted him this… She remembered him telling- or rather, ranting- about the time that he was the only one to gift himself anything after he had graduated law school… It was a few decades late, but this was something that he could appreciate and love. And it’s something that he would wear every single day…

Grover sniffled a little and looked up at Akasha, who was still smiling, albeit with a much gentler tone.

“Merry Christmas, Darling. I hope you like it-” She hardly finished her sentence when Grover pulled her in for a hug.

It took him a few minutes to regain control of his thoughts. He wasn’t sad- he was happy! So happy that he could hardly think at all. Akasha held him and stroked his hair, allowing him to squeeze a few stray tears from his eyes. After a few more minutes of him trying- and failing- to control his emotions, Grover pulled back slightly and gave Akasha a wet kiss to the lips.

“I-I love it A-Akasha! I-I do! Sorry, I-” She kisses him again, cutting off his apology.

“There’s no need, Grover. I understand.” Akasha smiled at him and gently wiped away his tears. Grover laughed a little, sniffling.

“I-I’ll wear them every single d-day… I love them…” They both enjoy the moment for a little longer. They hug, they kiss, they smile… But Grover had an equally meaningful gift that Akasha simply must open, here and now!

“Okay! Okay… I’m okay now- Really, I am! Here, open mine, Akasha! I’m dying to see you open it!” Grover’s hand shook subtly as he offered the equally small present to her.

She knew… Akasha might not know exactly what he got her, but she knows it’s her ring. Their ring, Grover reminds himself. He nervously opened and closed the box that contained his cufflinks as Akasha carefully peeled off the (albeit) bland and standard wrapping paper the department store wrapped the box in.

It was strange seeing Akasha be a little… anxious? Not uncertain or apprehensive, but genuinely excited yet also a little overwhelmed in a way he’s only seen a handful of times. He could be mistaken, but Grover thought he saw her fingers tremble slightly. Using her nail, Akasha slowly pried open the box, eyes snapping open wide as she gasped in surprise.

Grover held his breath as Akasha’s eyes scanned over the ring. Fear and hope hit him at once, making him feel a little faint and giddy. She blinked, normally, at first, then rapidly as she struggled to bat back the tears that welled in her eyes. Grover hesitated at first, worried he would inadvertently ruin the moment, but plucked up the courage to do it anyway.

“M-May I…?” He offered a (trembling) hand and Akasha wordlessly gave him the box- still opened- as she fought back her tears as she worried her lower lip.

It was laughably clumsy on Grover’s part, but Akasha remained quiet- maybe even pensive- as he freed the ring from its box. His hands were clammy compared to her smooth and dry skin, but Akasha didn’t care. Seeing that ring slip over her finger awoke something inside of her that she thought she had lost.

Again, Grover has proved himself to be one of the best things that has entered her life. The ring was beautiful- stunning and everything she could ever want. Did he pick it for the reasons she thought? Their time at the beach, playing in the water, where they first kissed and where they reconciled? That alone was enough to send her carefully guarded emotions out of balance, but for him to so shyly place the ring on her finger, unprompted and uncertain of himself? It made her heart throb in ways she isn’t sure she’s ever felt before. Or, at the very least, in ways that she’s all but forgotten.

All she could do was wordlessly kiss him, pulling him down close and holding on tightly. I love you and thank you weren’t enough. They didn’t explain the depth of the emotions that she was currently feeling. She hoped Grover understood exactly how much this meant to her. Maybe he understood a little, but not fully, and that was okay. For the first time in centuries, she is excited for what the future will hold. She won’t be alone anymore. From this moment onward, Akasha has a genuine reason to wake every day from her slumber and it be for a reason other than pure survival. She laughed and kissed Grover again. And again. And again.

The future was bright and full of possibilities! Like them going to the Fischoeder Christmas party and rubbing it in their faces that Grover was married to a beautiful woman first!

Both were excited to go to the annual Fischoeder Christmas party. It felt bizarre for Grover to think such a thing, but having Akasha at his side made tasks that were ordinarily like pulling teeth much more bearable. He was only partially dressed- Grover thought himself a little low maintenance but he had been putting in a lot more effort into his appearance ever since he met Akasha- but that wasn’t to say that his girl- that his fiance was extremely high maintenance.

Akasha was half ready- only missing her dress- but she seemed… distracted. She absentmindedly fiddled with her engagement ring, a thoughtful look on her face. Grover would have been terrified, wondering if she didn’t like it, but something in his gut told him that the opposite was true. She liked it- maybe she loved it- but she was still processing the sudden change. He slid in behind her and wrapped his arms around her torso, leaning down to give her exposed shoulders a quick peck. She hummed in acknowledgement but said or did nothing else. Without much thought behind his action, he teasingly opened his mouth and pressed his blunt teeth into her skin.

Grover didn’t even get to feel his teeth against her shoulder before the wind was knocked out of his chest. It wasn’t hard- okay, no, it was- it didn’t hurt but holy shit it scared him! And turned him on- Akasha had him by his shoulders, back flat against the wall as her nose bumped against his. Grover could feel the gentle breeze of her breath tickle his nose as she whispered.

“Don’t-”

Oh- Did he cross a line…? The thought only lingered for a moment, until he saw her eyes. Red irises, white sclera. Okay, not pissed- Horny. She’s horny and he’s totally fine with that, though-

“WAHGH-” His back collided with the soft mattress. Now he’s scared and horny. Akasha straddled his lap as he began to stutter.

“Uhh- T-The p-party-? Akasha?!” She shushed him as she placed a finger to his lips.

“No, no… You do not get to tease me without facing the repercussions of your actions, Darling…”

Oh.

She wanted him to bite her… but she wanted him to bite her, like she does to him. And he can’t yet, so he pretty much teased her in one of the most intimate ways possible. Oops… Now they’re both going to be late and a bit of a mess… but Grover doesn’t really care. Being late because he’s fucking his super hot and perfect vampire girlfriend?

Awesome….

Grover double and even tripled checked to make sure that his (fresh) bite mark was hidden underneath the collar of his shirt and jacket. A hickey was one thing- a little embarrassing but excusable. A dead ass bite mark? Not so easy to wave off, especially when it was already turning an angry purple-blue. It didn’t hurt- not really. A little tender but he didn’t mind. Grover patted it down and moved his neck around, cringing at how just a hint of the bruise was peeking out from beneath his clothing.

Oh well… Just getting bashful and shy over it should paint it nothing more than the two of them getting a little too frisky. Grover began to anxiously shift from foot to foot. Damn… He couldn’t help but get a little uneasy from being late. It didn’t really matter, nothing would happen, but he still found himself hopping from foot to foot. Before he could ask Akasha if she needed any help, she spoke up.

“Almost ready, Darling! Don’t worry…” She called from their bathroom. Grover sighed in relief.

“Actually- Could you come here? I need assistance-” Ah- the back of her dress!

“C-Coming!” He hasn’t seen her dress yet. She wanted it to be a surprise. It took everything in him to not peek once while she was getting ready, but he was proud of himself for sticking it out. Especially after he saw how beautiful she was…

Grover saw her from behind. Her pristine, porcelain skin was a wonderful contrast to the black and red gradient that was her dress’s colour scheme. He wasn’t surprised that it left her shoulders exposed- it was exactly what suited her the most. The neck of the dress being a sort of collar around her neck really made him want to bite and tug on it, but he knew better. They would never leave the house if he did, so he instead wrapped his arms around her from behind and rested his chin on her shoulder. It was still a little weird not being able to see her in the mirror, but it was still wonderful to see the silhouette of her figure in that tight little dress regardless.

“Hmm… You look absolutely gorgeous, Akasha…” He placed a gentle but chaste kiss to her shoulder, still a little winded and sensitive from their previous romp in the sheets. She smiled and hummed, craning her neck to the side.

“Mmhm- My back, Darling?” Ah- right…

Grover slowly zipped it up, still not quite removing himself from around her. God, she’s perfect… Do they have to go…? But- Hmph… rubbing in their relationship will be satisfying…

“Are you ready, Darling? There will be plenty of time for us to fraternize later, wouldn’t you agree?” Akasha turned to face him, smiling as she kissed him on the lips.

“Mmm- Yeah… definitely…”

It might be a long night, but he’s with her, so Grover thinks he can manage just fine.

That was, he thought that until he realized who else was at the party.

Calvin wasn’t the one to open the door, but rather a child- a portly, ten year old boy to be precise. Grover could feel his eye twitch as he- in an exaggerated and borderline obnoxious way- opens the door and offers to take both of their coats. Akasha was a good sport and smiled, shrugging off her coat and thanking the “nice little doorman” as he excitedly waited for Grover to take his coat off. That damn face… He sighed and took his own coat off.

Now, he doesn’t have anything against the Belchers- no, that’s not right. Grover didn’t particularly like them. They were loud, troublesome tenants that never paid their rent on time and constantly caused issues all over Ocean’s Avenue. If- if- If they caused any issues for Calvin during his stupid party, well…. That’s not Grover’s problem. He’s not going to worry anymore! And Akasha is so calm… So maybe this is going to be okay-

“Grover! How is my favourite- Oh. She is here?” Calvin’s face fell and he narrowed his eye, studying them both. Grover could feel his anxiety start to kick up, but Akasha slipped her hand into his and stroked his knuckles with her thumb.

It’s okay… he can do this…

“Yes, C-Calvin. She is here. And she’s here to stay. Uh- N-Not here, but w-with me, of course-” And he’s already slipping. Calvin’s mouth was pressed into a thin line as he looked between the two of them once more. His eyes drift down and linger on the ring on Akasha’s finger.

“Mmhm… Right… Okay, cousin. I still think-”

“WOULD ANYONE LIKE AN HORS D’OEUVRE?!” Little Gene Belcher squirmed his way in between Calvin and Grover, holding a plate of assorted cheeses and crackers above his head while bending his knees and intensely staring into the distance.

Well… there goes the tension. Grover and Calvin’s shoulders relaxed as Akasha giggled.

“I would love one, little waiter.” She picked up a sample and delicately placed it into her mouth while maintaining eye contact with Calvin. He began to sweat as he took a step back, clearing his throat.

“My lady-” Gene bows and backs away from them, nearly tripping over the corner of a rug in the main room of Calvin’s home.

Grover cleared his throat. He still felt a little on edge, but he saw where Calvin’s eyes landed at the end of their conversation. It’s now or never… He needs to do it while the overall atmosphere of the party is still tame and not on edge because the host is fighting with his cousin on freaking Christmas-

Squeezing Akasha’s hand, Grover gently pulled her away from an awkward Calvin. He didn’t say anything, but he brought her ring-clad hand up. Looking at it, he looked back at her, silently asking for permission. And encouragement. She blushed and nodded, smiling as she ducked her head a little.

Now or never, Grover… You can do this.

It didn’t matter if everyone present heard him, he just had to do it in front of Calvin. Grover looked around for… ah- A glass! Perfect. He grabbed a clean spoon and carefully clinked it on the glass, then did it even harder when the sound it produced wasn’t loud enough. He didn’t notice it when he first arrived, but the living room was full of people! The Belchers, Calvin, Felix and some other regular guests were loitering around and chatting, though now they were quiet as they looked directly at him.

S-Shit…

“U-Um… E-Everyone? I-I have an announcement!” They stare, expectantly. Grover felt nauseous but he trained his eyes on Akasha, who never stopped smiling at him.

He can do this…

“I-I don’t have a s-speech prepared or anything, so- um- th-this is straight to the point. I-I’m engaged to this lovely woman here!” Grover wrapped his arm around Akasha who blushed. The crowd clapped, someone cheered- was it Linda Belcher?- and someone- Fanny- smacked someone- Felix- and said “Why haven’t you done that for me yet?!” Grover was relieved that he just came out and said it rather than beating around the bush. It felt like a weight was lifted off of him!

Simple, to the point and relatively painless. A sob broke out- Linda Belcher- as she hugged her husband then her children, exclaiming how “They grow up so fast! STOP GROWING-!” to what he assumed was her children, but knowing them only vaguely, she could very well be talking about him, too. Gene Belcher shouted “KISS HER ALREADY!” , followed by his father scolding him. Well… Grover can’t argue with that request-

The kiss was chaste and was punctuated by an even more enthusiastic applause and cheers. Grover was aware of his cousin- both of them- staring a hole into him and Akasha, but he didn’t care anymore. It felt like nothing! Grover was totally buzzed from making their relationship totally public! The entire mood of the party shifted from “sleepy and unenthused” to “hyped and ready to party” in a fraction of a second. It was more than enough for Akasha to quietly pardon herself from both the guests that congratulated both her and Grover and Grover, himself, so that she could have a private word with a certain someone.

“Calvin? Come, let us talk. Alone.” She glared at Felix, who raised his hands in a sort of ‘don’t hurt me’ gesture as he awkwardly scooted away from the two of them. Calvin swallowed, his heart rate skyrocketing, but he still nodded and led Akasha into the adjacent room: the dining room.

“I don’t know what kind of mystical, womanly manipulation that you’ve used on my cousin, but-” The door had scarcely closed before the accusations started. Akasha couldn’t stop herself from laughing aloud.

“Manipulation? On my Darling, Grover? No, no… in this, you are terribly mistaken, Calvin. I fear that you have long since… how would you say… beaten me to the punch, if you will.” Calvin couldn't maintain eye contact with her. It was- She was too intense. It made his skin crawl and his heart jump up into his throat.

“I-I got my eye on you, lady. You- You had to be paid so you’d marry him, weren’t you?! How much was it? Want to bet I can’t match it so I can-” Calvin’s voice cracked and Akasha couldn’t help but to laugh again, this time a bit sharper and shorter. He paid me-

“Oh no. You don’t get to say such things. See… I proposed to him, Calvin, and he said yes to me.” Akasha took a step towards Calvin, smirking as he made himself small against the dining table.

“You do not have to like me, but now it does not matter. Does it, cousin?” She closed the distance between them and gave his cheek a hardy pat. Calvin gasped and flinched as though he was genuinely struck. Oh… he would know if she struck him. She smiled again and made her way to the door.

“Come along, cousin dear! You shouldn’t keep your guest wondering and waiting, now should you?”

Reuniting with Grover, Akasha elected to stay by his side for the rest of the party. He did such a good job announcing their engagement like that… but he was still nervous, from what she could tell from his beating heart though… That could merely be excitement. Still, she stays. No one else is of particular note in this party and very few have caught her attention. And the ones that have-

“No! I’m telling you that she is one hundred percent a freaking VAMPIRE!” The littlest Belcher child was whispering none too discreetly to her two older siblings.

They were huddled at the table where all the little party snacks were placed with Gene, the middle child and the one she’s already met, munching indiscriminately on all the plates within arm’s reach. Tina, the eldest, glanced over to Akasha, who smiled and gave her a coy wave. Her heart rate soared as she made a bizarre series of panicked gasps while frozen in place. The youngest, Lousie, grabbed her elder sister and dragged her underneath the table with Gene following after he had piled a load of food onto a single plate.

Cute… They made Grover nervous but Akasha couldn’t help but to enjoy every moment they tried to ‘prove’ that she was a vampire. Or, at least, Louise was trying to figure out if she was or not, Tina was trying to stop her so she ‘wouldn’t get bitten’ and Gene was commenting on how nice she smelled.

Genuinely adorable… Akasha couldn’t stop herself from honing in on their conversation with her superb hearing.

“Tina, Gene! Are you with me or not?! I could really use some friggin’ back up here!” Louise hisses through gritted teeth.

“Yes! …what are we doing?” Gene asked through chomping down on one of the small treats that Calvin had provided to the guest.

“Uuuhhh- I-I dunno, Louise… Is it a good idea to mess with her if she is a vampire? And- And-! She just got engaged…” Tina’s trembling voice smoothed out as she sighed longingly.

“We shouldn’t mess with a vampire that just got engaged! It’s not right…” She yelped as she was grabbed, no doubt it was Louise.

“TINA! A. Freaking. VAMPIRE!! Don’t you have any idea of what we’re dealing with here?!” Again, Tina groans, anxious.

“I-I dunno, Louise… I’m more acquainted with zombies than I am with vampires…” Oh?

“Look- Look! Gene! Give me your eyes, baby! Okay, this is what we’re gonna do-” Akasha pulled herself away from the conversation.

They are children. Harmless. I’ll let them have their fun…

“Akasha? Are you alright? You seem a little out of it…” Grover gently touched her on the arm, concern knitted his brows. Aww-

“Ah- Yes, I’m sorry, Darling! I was just… a little focused, that’s all.” She smiled, giving Grover a little wink. Uh-

“Haha… S-Should I be-?” Before he could finish, three familiar faces shuffle over, smiling and looking particularly guilty and mischievous. Uhh-

Oh shit-

“H-Hey-! …y-you? Lady- uh-” Louise was sweating and her little heart was beating out of her chest. Akasha looked down at her and smiled, allowing only the very tips of her fangs to show on her lips. Louise’s eyes widened and she looked like a deer in the headlights. Her brother, Gene, helpfully added-

“M’lady Vampire!” He bowed in an exaggerated fashion. Akasha could feel Grover getting twitchy beside her, but she, on the other hand, merely smiled and curtseyed back.

“Sir Doorman and Waiter.” Gene looks positively shocked but rather pleased by the title she gave him. Tina chewed on her lip, then awkwardly blurted out.

“How did you know you were in love? Was it love at first sight?” Louise punched her sister in the hip and couldn’t look more horrified if she tried. Akasha paused, a little surprised by the genuine question. She glanced over at Grover, who looked back at her, a little sheepish though eager to learn this too. She smiled.

“Hmm… perhaps hope at first sight would be more accurate…” Grover’s eyes softened and a small smile crept onto his face. Akasha could hear or feel nothing other than the quickening pace of his heart. Nothing else… A soft awww was whispered by Tina as Louise grunted in disgust. Gene hummed thoughtfully between a mouthful of food. A playful smile tugged at Akasha’s lips.

“....but if you truly wish to know, I believe that it would be the day I caught him singing Elvis in our apartment while in nothing but his undergarments-” Grover’s face instantly changed to bright red and bashful. That was when-? Louise groan loudly and exclainmed-

“UGH- Tina, she’s a freaking VAMPIRE and all you can think about is LOVE?!” Tina ignored her sister’s disgusted cries and looked to Grover.

“Grover? What about you? When did you know it was love? I mean- y-you don’t have to answer, I’m just trying to keep the momentum up from before, you know-” Huh…

That was… a good question. Could he even pinpoint the moment? There were so many… Akasha is perfect. She’s strong, she’s kind, she’s poised…. His mind drifted to one night in particular.

“It was when we first went to the beach together… She was leading me down the stairs of the Wharf by the hand and… hehe… I for a second thought that she was gonna lure me out alone so she could kill me. B-But-!” Everyone, even Akasha, looked surprised, to say the least. She cocked her head to the side, not showing what she was feeling on her sleeve. S-Shit-

It’s not-!

“B-But it’s- oh God this sounded better in my head-” Grover nervously fiddled with his glasses before he switched his attention to his bow tie. “-I… I just had a feeling of serenity that night, with her… I never felt anything like it before. It’s like… ‘if I die tonight, after being with her, then it was all worth it’. Not just meeting her, but my entire life. Like everything was leading to that very moment…” His voice trailed off as his eyes met Akasha’s. Maybe his wasn’t as charming as Akasha’s story… but it was the truth. Her eyes were a little misty. Not teary, but something close. Tina clasped her hands to her chest while her younger sister nearly collapsed into a heap from how utterly disgusted she was.

“Yeah, yeah, okay- Super cute, romantic, whatever… Hey! Can you-”

“Are you gonna get married in a church? Can we come?!” Tina stole her sister’s question before she could finish saying it. She exasperatedly screamed her sister’s name while her brother barked out a quick ha!

“TINA! No, she can’t go in a friggin’ church! She’s a vampire, remember?! GOD! Keep your head in the freaking game!” Tina raised her hands and groaned.

“I- you know I’m more of a zombie girl, Louise! It’s not my fault!” Akasha cleared her throat. All four of them- including Grover- focused on her.

“You are right, little one… I cannot enter holy ground, for I am among the damned…” Akasha lowered her voice and leaned forwards. Everyone leaned in too, for fear of missing what she would say next. Her face remained the same, but the air around her changed.

“If I were to enter holy ground… I… would… BURST INTO FLAMES!” Akasha blew air at the children while wiggling her fingers in their faces. It's enough to make the three of them flinch away.

“But… your family has been very kind to us. I would love for you to attend our wedding. Wouldn’t you, Grover?” She smiled softly as she looked at him, straightening up as the kids looked a mix of awed and terrified. He nearly objected, but Akasha gave him a sly wink.

I got this… He closed his mouth then nodded, wondering what she was plotting.

“Yay! We get to go to a wedding-!” Tina cheered, forgetting her fear.

“A VAMPIRE wedding!” Louise narrowed her eyes at Akasha's mouth. She still gave nothing away.

“Free food!” Gene celebrated! He had a few miscellaneous stains on the collar of his dress shirt as well as some food still around the corners of his mouth. Ehh- Grover thought he was gross but Akasha found him darling.

“Kids?! Are you bothering the engagees?!” Linda walked over with a glass of wine in hand. She was alone- Grover guessed her husband was in the kitchen- but Fanny was hovering around, never getting too close to them. Grover assumed she was extremely jealous that they had an announcement with a nice, flashy ring and she didn’t. He nearly felt bad for Felix. Nearly…

“Whaaat? Psh- no, we aren’t bothering them- Guys! Are we bothering them?” Louise ribbed her sister again. Who quietly said ‘oww’ under her breath. Gene loudly proclaimed-

“We’re invited to their wedding!” Linda gasped, placing a hand over her mouth. She looked between Grover and Akasha.

“Wha- Really?! Oh, please tell me we’re invited!! PLEASE?!” She hopped around, a little tipsy from the wine she’s already drunk. Her voice was as loud as her children’s. Grover doesn’t know how Akasha remains so poised through it all…

“You absolutely are! Who knows… perhaps you could cater for us-” Oh, Grover hopes she is joking, but from the way she flutters her eyelashes at him… he isn’t so sure. Linda squeals in delight, hopping from foot to foot.

“Ha! In your face, Fanny! We’re not only invited, but we get to cater, too! Naaahh!” She stuck her tongue out and blew a raspberry at a now seething Fanny. The kids joined in on teasing her and rubbing it in her face. They’re annoying… but Fanny is worse. Bonus points because she’s going to tear Felix a new one after this.

“Oh, it’s gonna be great! We’ll make cute little appetizers, burgers- OH- Cake! What about cake? Have you thought about it yet? I bet my sister, Gayle, could help with something- she’s an artist, you know?- and maybe she’d meet a nice guy at the wedding- Ohhh wouldn’t that be cute?! O-Oh! And what about-?!” Akasha was very receptive to everything that tumbled out of Linda’s mouth. Grover, on the other hand, had long since tuned her out.

He really was wanting to leave. Grover really, really didn’t want to stick around for Calvin’s stupid gingerbread friends to arrive. If they stay that late… God, they might not leave until the sun rises… Grover sat down and tugged at the collar of his shirt. Damn, his neck itches… He must be careful… he could scratch it and make himself bleed, or accidentally show the bite, or-

“I freaking KNEW IT-!” A piercing shout in his ear caused him to cringe and jump.

“W-What the-?! HEY!” Grover snatched a small wrist that nearly managed to pull his collar down. Louise Belcher was standing on the tips of her toes, totally undaunted that a grown man had caught her quite literally red handed trying to pull down his shirt collar.

“She IS a vampire! I saw that bite mark, Grover!” Her voice was sing-songy as she, again, tried to grab his shirt. He stood to his full height, face red and heart slamming out of his chest.

“I-It’s not- No! M-Mrs. Belcher! Your child, please-!” Louise scoffed as she tried to climb up his leg.

“If you think she’s capable of stopping me-!”

“LOUISE! Get off of Mr.Fischoeder! N-Not that one- JUST GET DOWN! NOW! BOBBY-!!” Louise groaned and jumped off of him. Grover quickly readjusted his shirt collar.

“Ugh- FINE! But moooom! His girlfriend- ‘fiance’, Tina corrected- whatever! SHE- she pointed to Akasha- is a freaking-!” Linda crossed her arms.

“Louise-” The girl threw her hands up in defeat.

“URRG-! FINE! When you get bit, don’t come crying to me! No, wait-! Do, actually. I want to be an immortal vampire too!” Grover nervously cleared his throat, gently taking Akasha by the hand. He was a sweaty, clammy mess but she held on to him all the same. A grounding force”

“If you are quite finished, I think this is our cue to head home, honey.” Several people protested quietly. Some not so quietly. Akasha hummed, then nodded, knowing full well that Grover was past his limit for both social interaction and bizarre harassment from both the children and his cousins’ behalf.

“I believe you are correct, Darling… Shall we-?”

Everyone said their goodbyes. Linda and the kids, especially. Fanny glared while Felix watched like he had absolutely nothing going on between his ears. Calvin’s mouth was sealed shut, though Grover could tell that he would likely call him later.

Grover helped Akasha with her coat. He vaguely heard Fanny complaining to Felix that she was cold. He actually snapped a little, exclaiming “Damn- Fanny! I can’t control the weather! What d’ya want from meeee-?!” as Grover shrugged on his own coat. He held back a laugh. Just as he was opening the door, Calvin’s old friends were preparing to ring the doorbell.

Ugh, they’re here…

“Sorry, gentlemen, we’re just leaving-” Grover opened the door for them while Akasha stood to the side, giving them ample space to file through the door. One of the older men, though, stopped dead in his tracks, surprised. So surprised that he held up the line and needed to be reminded to move out of the way. Akasha, too, was surprised, which caused Grover to be surprised as well.

“Ah, Randolph Brackenbrown! My, my, this is a lovely surprise!” Akasha curtseyed before the older man. He offered his hand and Akasha placed hers in his.

“My lady…” He places a kiss to her knuckles and then turns to a bewildered Grover, still holding open a now empty door.

“Your fiance, hmm?” Brackenbrown looked over Grover, who felt more and more confused by the moment. “For all of time, madam?” He turns back to Akasha, who blushes, giggles and nods.

“Yes, my sir… You are correct.” She bows her head to him once more. What… is happening…?

“My, my, Grover… you are so very lucky!” Brackenbrown gives him a hardy pat to the shoulder. “May this love last this life and into the next!” He gives Grover a wink and he damn near faints.

What? What?! Does- Does he-?! Akasha's smile deepens as she watches him walk away.

“Come, Darling… Let us return home.”

As they entered the car, Grover couldn’t help but to ask plainly-

“A-Akasha? What the fuck just happened? Was he- Does he know-?” She stretches and nods, sighing in a content manner.

“Yes, Darling… Your cousin’s friend is a vampire. He asked me if I was turning you… and I told him as such.” Grover sits back in his seat, dumbstruck. It didn’t bother him that he was a- well… a vampire, or that Akasha told him of their… plans. It’s just…

Cavin’s friend is a fucking vampire! That means that… that they’re a lot more common than he could have ever anticipated, right? Or is Ocean’s Avenue just a magnet for the strange and fucking bizarre? Anything could be possible… and Grover can’t complain. After all… he has met Akasha here…

“You guys seemed… familiar? Is he a client, or-?” He was genuinely curious. For a moment, he thought his question might be a bit invasive or even taken the wrong way. Akasha hummed then answered.

“No, not personally… In vampiric society, we treat one another with great respect. Regal, if you will.” She chuckled. Grover blushed a little.

“Well… I guess it’s good practice that I’ve taken to calling you ‘my Queen’...” Akasha blushes and gently nudges his shoulder. Grover smiles.

Extremely good practice…

As Grover pulled out of the Fischoeder property, he couldn’t help but to ask-

“Honey? You didn’t really invite the kids to the vampiric wedding, did you…?” He already knows the answer, but he was curious if she had something else in mind. Akasha shook her head as she leaned her head against her window.

“No, of course not, Darling. However… I was thinking that we would have two ceremonies. One where I turn you…” She looks over to him and from the corner of his eye, he sees her smile. “...and one for legal purposes. You know, a… hmm… typical human wedding! For both legal purposes and for your family to attend.” Grover’s ears perked up. To weddings…? He can marry her twice?! He didn’t know he needed this, but now that it’s an option, it’s definitely going to happen!

“...would you really burst into flames if you entered a church?” Wow. Smooth, Grover. Dumbass… Akasha laughs and gently covers her painted lips with the back of her hand. The tension he felt dissipates.

“No , no! I won’t turn into ash… but the little one is right. I cannot enter holy ground without a clergyman inviting me inside. And that certainly wouldn’t happen…” Her voice trailed off a little. Grover chuckled a little to himself.

“Ah- So definitely no church. Got-” Akasha stiffened in her seat.

“Grover-” The words died in his mouth. He knit his brows together and glanced at her but quickly pulled his eyes back to the road. Her tone…

“Wha-?”

“I love you. So very much… But we will NOT be wed IN or BY the church. EVER.” There was an edge to her words that shook him to his core. She was… angry, hurt… in another time. Grover took a moment to digest her words.

‘Not wed in or by the church… He could imagine why, but instead he decided to ask.

“What happened, Akasha?” His voice was soft, barely above a whisper, but she heard him. And she remained silent, staring ahead as though she was ignoring his question.

Maybe he was wrong or it was wishful thinking… but Grover thought that she did want to talk about it, though she was daunted and scared to do so. After all… she could have simply said ‘I don’t want to talk about it’ instead of being silent. She still wasn’t responding, so Grover sighed and pulled over and parked in an empty parking space. He turned to look at Akasha, who was trying even harder to not meet his eyes.

“Akasha…? I don’t expect you to share everything about your past. I… I would only want you to share what is troubling you- in your mind and your heart. I know that… I probably don’t and won’t understand many things, but I’m about to become your husband. If you can’t share with me what hurts you… who can you share it with?” Akasha turned to face him. Her eyes were thick with tears and she was ghastly pale. She hangs her head and says nothing. Grover takes it as she is thinking and carefully pulls out so he can continue to drive home.

The ride was tense and quiet. Grover could only hear his heart beating in his ears. Akasha remained quiet as a mouse with her head bowed so he couldn’t see her face. He doesn’t regret what he said and he doesn’t blame Akasha for her reaction. Her reasons are her own and it’s now up to her to share or keep this close to the chest. He won’t pry or push anymore, no matter how much it hurts.

Grover sighs softly as he parks in their apartment’s lot. He unbuckled his seatbelt and as he pulled his keys from the ignition, Akasha finally spoke up.

“You are right… Whom else can I speak to if not my husband…?” Oh, shit-

“Akasha? You don’t have to tell me anything unless you’re ready to. I don’t want you to think I’m trying to guilt trip you or-” Akasha turned to face him. She was… crying? She placed her hand on his cheek. God, she’s so cold… He takes her hand into his and blows warm air onto her fingers. She smiles weakly.

“No… You are right… I can’t keep doing this. It’s not fair… You deserve honesty.” She takes a few breaths. It’s not unlike a woman that has nearly drowned coming up for air. It’s … unsettling but Grover waits patiently for her to speak.

“....the church murdered my mother.” Grover is taken aback.

“She was accused and executed for witchcraft.” Burned at the stake… A terrible way to die. It wouldn’t matter either way, but still, he asked.

“Was she…?” Akasha’s hand squeezed his. Her eyes fell a little as she slumped in her seat.

“No… My mother was a woman of science. She didn’t follow the orthodoxy of the church when it came to healing the sick and the infirmed. My father’s library was a great aid in her pursuit of knowledge and better care for others. The church despised her. Mother’s medicines were potions in their eyes. Speech of new things, of scientific things? Heresy and witchcraft. They kidnapped her, destroyed all her work, her tools, and burned her at the stake in the middle of the city.”

The tears dried in her eyes and her voice had long since stopped shaking. Akasha is… calm, nearly stoic. But she isn’t here. Grover can see in her eyes she’s in a different time and place, where she had no control and when she was terrified but wasn’t able to show it to anyone, even to herself. Her eyes flick around, as though she is watching something before her. Maybe she is…

Grover feels sick, but if he knew Akasha, she wouldn’t want an ‘I’m sorry’ or ‘that’s terrible’... It does nothing for her but invalidate everything she has been through and what she has become. Instead, he kisses her knuckles, gently pulling her back to reality.

“Thank you, Akasha…”

Clarity comes back to her eyes. She’s exhausted, emotional, but she is balanced once again. She leans in and presses her forehead to her soon-to-be husband’s. His warmth is grounding, as was his anxious and upset heart beat. She smiles a little- sad but still grateful.

“Come, Darling… I really need to get out of this dress…” Akasha slips out of the car and makes for the stairs of the apartment. Grover chases after her.

“I-I’ll help-! Wait for me!”

Finally being out of their dress clothing was a relief! Grover’s feet are a little sore from standing so long, but he has an idea to help the night end on a more positive note. Akasha wasn’t moody by any means. A little melancholic, yes but not sour at all. Still, it’s Christmas night going onto the next day, and it needs a little something to be even more memorable…

Grover put on one of their Elvis records- one of his favorites- and put on a song that Akasha was sure to love.

‘I can’t help falling in love with you’ starts to play. Akasha perks up then smiles as Grover offers a hand to her. She giggles and takes it, fitting snugly against his chest as they both rhythmically sway to the soft music playing around them. With the tree as their only light, it was quite romantic… regardless of the fact they were both in their pajamas. In the midst of dancing, a thought crosses Grover’s mind.

“Akasha?” She hums. “Will you turn me after the New Year?” They don’t need to see each other’s faces to know the confidence in Grover’s statement. Akasha had him think about this carefully, and if he is asking, well…

“If that is what you desire, my Love.” Grover rests his cheek on the top of her soft, raven black hair.

“More than anything…” Akasha hums in agreement, squeezing Grover a little in her embrace.

They still dance, even after the song changes once, twice, thrice. Both tired, Grover removes his cheek from her hair and leans down to kiss her, to which Akasha reciprocates immediately. He can feel the inklings of her fangs against his lips…

“Merry Christmas, Akasha…” She smiles.

Merry Christmas, Grover…”

@prettycutebunny, @infinitewhore, @kennbb, @slutwithadegree, @dead-bxxxtch-walking, @space-arsonist, @pink-soft-shadow, @sinlessdesire, @hoemine

#bob's burgers #bob's burgers x oc #not my oc #akashakushrenada's oc #grover fischoeder x oc #grover fischoeder #calvin fischoeder #the belchers #others too #I'm done with typing for a while lol #xmas special #engagement #party shenanigans #nearly 12k #wow #noice

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