Chapter Text
Legundo was a calm man.
He had been described as level headed before. He didn’t allow himself to be anything but calm and level headed. It was part of the profession, and a moral standing he held himself too.
He wanted to be someone people could rely on. He wanted to be the guiding hand to those around him. So it was odd for him to be unsteady. It was odd for him to feel anger, or resentment. He was better than that now. He had a lot to atone for.
In saying that: he absolutely didn’t blame Owen for his anger.
Owen had been through so much in his younger years, from being outcast, socially neglected and isolated from any known comfort, to having the only comfort he’d ever known be stripped from him just as fast as it had been given. He had all the right to be angry at humanity. He had all the right to still hold resentment.
Which is why Owen holding his tongue for Legundo’s sake meant so much to him. Whether it was out of fear of Louis’s practically nonexistent wrath or out of fear of Legundo snapping he wasn’t sure, but Owen kept his opinions to himself the past two years. And Legundo was beyond grateful.
He hadn’t been able to stomach the thought. Being turned. Just one short year ago the idea of eternal life made him want to be sick. He used to practically hear the voices of the damned, the ones he had condemned, whispering in his ears:
‘You don’t deserve eternal life’
‘What about our justice? Our reward?’
‘What did we do to deserve this that you didn’t?’
‘You know you should be here instead of us.’
He listened to every possible reprimand his brain could conjure up. On particularly difficult nights he imagined the victims of his crimes visiting him, whispering thoughts in his head so he wouldn’t have to. It brought him a strange sense of morbid peace. To think that what he was going to do was what his victims wanted.
He was a level-headed man, yes. But, in certain circumstances, he was also a very stubborn one. So he held firm on these beliefs. And he kept them close to his chest.
His partners knew well what he wanted, and he knew as time went on, said partners were getting more and more nervous. With all his past health scares, his military background and his general habit of overworking and neglecting himself, he wasn’t surprised they were. But it still hurt to know what he was doing to them.
But, he wanted to be selfish. Just this once.
.
.
.
Owen was getting worried.
Louis knew he was. Louis was worried too. Legundo’s health hadn’t had any significant decline or anything drastic. But it also wasn’t making any improvements either.
He wasn’t sure why, but both he and Owen were steadily becoming more worried for their mortal partner as time went on. Some sort of feeling was passing between them. Some dread was seating itself in their lives. Something was going to happen and he knew Legundo knew it too.
Something changed at some point and Louis couldn’t shake the feeling that something was creeping closer. It made his skin crawl and he swears if he had a heart it would be struggling under the pressure. Most days he wanted to lay down and pretend for a moment that the thick tension was just his imagination.
But he just couldn’t.. because he just knew Owen and Legundo can feel it too.
Maybe that’s why they’re all so tense. Maybe Legundo knows his time is near, and he’s quietly preparing for it. Maybe that's the feeling him and Owen are picking up on. Louis had heard humans could do that sometimes. When they got older they could feel their body was ready to go. That has to be it. Right? What else could it be?
Louis tried to keep a brave face, but he spent most days home alone crying into a pillow. He tried to distract himself, and he continued to smile and laugh with his partners everyday. It was just one more person to lose. He could handle it this time. He would still have Owen. But his chest felt hollow when he thought about it.
Owen had steadily been getting more agitated the longer the tense atmosphere went on. He spent more days deep in the forest, once coming back with stark white hair. Owen had had to hole himself in the house for a week until his hair turned brown again before Louis and Legundo let him go back out. That week had been especially tough. Owen didn’t like to be locked up or held back.
Louis tried to be brave, but he was scared.
Then Legundo came home with two bouquets of flowers in his arms. And instead of feeling flattered, he feared the worst.
“For my two favourite people.” He smiled, handing Louis a bouquet of red Camellias. His favourite. They meant ‘you’re a flame in my heart.’ He always found it poetic. He’d only mentioned them to Legundo once in passing, when he’d had a bit of a phase of knowing the meaning of every flower he could find. He almost cracked there and then, but instead he smiled, giving Legundo a gentle kiss.
Legundo grinned like an idiot, before handing a bouquet with a mix of Honeysuckle and orange lilies to Owen. Louis knew now that Legundo had picked the flowers based on their preferences, and not by meaning, as though Honeysuckle did mean ‘bonds of love’, Orange Lily’s meant hatred.
Maybe it was more accurate than either of them realized.
Owen hadn’t been able to hide his smile, his earlier anxious suspicion that matched Louis’s own melting as he was handed the bouquet. Owen wasn’t someone who would have a favourite flower, but he and Legundo had noticed how he stopped to stare at the honeysuckle, and Owen had once gingerly admitted after much consideration that his favourite colour was orange. Like sunsets.
“What's the occasion?” Owen asked, a little suspicion edging his voice as he gave Legundo a kiss. Legundo just smiled, but Louis could practically feel the anxiety pouring off the man, making Louis uneasy about what was going to come next.
“Let's go on a walk and you’ll find out.”
Louis and Owen exchanged glances, before nodding with nervous smiles. Louis quickly placed the bouquets in water, giving Legundo a proper thank you kiss before retreating to the bedroom to dress himself properly for a walk.
He and Owen met in the bedroom, before pausing to stare for a moment.
“This better not be what I think it is.” Owen snapped, grabbing a cleaner shirt and tugging it on. Louis pursed his lips.
“We.. We have to be strong for him.” Louis insisted, his voice feeling tight as he himself began dressing nicer for the outing.
“I don’t know how much longer I can handle ‘being strong for him’ anymore.” Owen said gravely, his ears twitching and his gaze hardening into a steady scowl as he grabbed his work boots from the shoe rack. Louis bit the inside of his mouth, pausing to rub his arms in feign comfort.
“Maybe he’s just treating us?” He tried weakly, and Owen scoffed harshly, making Louis flinch.
“You know that's not true. Whatever it is, I might actually attack him this time.” Owen growled, and Louis shook his head.
“Please Owen, please don’t get angry at him for this… he’s.. he’s only human.” Louis begged, and Owen looked away with tense shoulders.
“Yeah. That's the problem.” Louis gave Owen a desperate look that the brunette forcefully ignored.
“You don’t mean that.” Louis croaked, and Owen bared his teeth in a snarl at the ground, still tying the laces of his boots.
“Don’t be daft.” Owen spat, finishing the knot and standing up. Louis shook his head again, stepping forward and gripping Owen’s forearms.
“Owen.” He pleaded gently, and Owen’s glare softened just a little. Owen promptly snubbed his face away from Louis, but did not move.
“I’m begging you Owen please don’t make Legundo feel any worse.”
Owen huffed and his glare returned, pulling himself away from Louis just a fraction.
“Make Legundo feel worse? Look what his choices are doing to you.” Owen cried, and Louis found his voice lost in his throat.
“His suicidal attitude is making you miserable. I know you think you’re hiding it well but you’re not.” Owen choked, stepping forward again from where he’d backed away earlier. Louis found his hands were shaking.
“I won’t let him do this to you.. to us.. without a fight.”
Louis shook his head again, blinking at Owen’s determination.
“He doesn’t deserve that Owen.” Louis pleaded softly, and Owen just looked away.
“He doesn’t deserve death.” Owen growled, turning and leaving the room.
Louis stood for a moment, letting tears fall for a quick reprieve. Owen scared Louis sometimes. What Owen was capable of scared Louis all the time. What he did in Oakhurst.. what he wasn’t afraid to do. He had the will power to do such awful things. And yet Louis loved him, and would continue to love him. Maybe Louis was the crazy one.
Once Louis had dried his eyes and quickly finished getting dressed, he met his partners at the door. He continued to wear his perfect mask of a happy person, praying Legundo couldn’t see through it.
Legundo smiled at him again, opening the door for them with a polite dip of the head and gesturing for them to go first.
“What a gentleman.” Louis giggled, stepping through the door with Owen at his heel. Legundo chuckled to himself,
“I aim to please.”
They walked into the forest and down the path Louis knew led to the clearing that was always full of wild flowers this time of year. Louis prayed Legundo was just being romantic. He prayed he wasn’t trying to soften the blow when he told them what they already know. Louis looked over at Owen, who had his lips pursed tight and was clearly chewing the inside of his cheek. Despite the argument they had, Louis took his hand quietly. Owen squeezed it in return.
When they got to the clearing, a picnic blanket was set up, and all Louis could do was laughed gently at the sight.
“How romantic.” He smiled, and Legundo gave the pair a wink before gesturing to the blanket. As always when they went on picnics, the pair helped Legundo sit. And also like always, there was a picnic basket full of treats for all of them.
Louis tried to relax as the usual steady conversation built up, that usual tension in the air slowly thickening until Legundo was very visibly nervous. Owen was fidgeting with the corner of the blanket and Louis was sitting deathly still, as if preparing for the final blow.
Louis tried to shake the conversation from his mind, but it was making him anxious. Depending on if Legundo said what he thinks he’s going to say.. it could go so wrong. Owen’s anger was so fragile. Louis didn’t understand how all that anger could be kept in one person. He loved Owen’s passion so much. He loved how deeply Owen felt.. but something like this scared Louis so badly he wasn’t sure shielding Owen from their bond could hide it.
Eventually, Legundo’s smile tightened, and he looked at the ground away from the pair.
“Uh I actually.. I need to talk to you both.”
The pair tensed up, and fear crept its way up Louis’s throat and prevented him from responding.
“It's important..” Legundo started, and Owen shut his eyes tight.
“Don’t.” He snapped, and Legundo startled.
“Don’t say it.”
The tension had finally snapped and was pressing down on Louis’s shoulders. He didn’t want to see Legundo’s expression, but he forced himself to look. Legundo looked.. mostly confused, but also.. hurt. Even more anxious than he was originally.
“Owen-” Louis tried desperately, but Owen shook his head with a fierce look.
“No, I don’t want to hear it.” A silence settled over them and Legundo frowned, before digging in his trouser pocket for a moment and holding something in both his hands to obscure it from view.
“But I need you to hear it.” Legundo said firmly, and before Owen could snap at the human, Legundo opened what was in his hands. It was a small black box, and Louis instinctively gasped and covered his mouth with his hands. Legundo quickly opened the box and presented the contents towards the pair, causing Owen to go silent as he stared.
There were two beautifully crafted rings placed in the box. They were a shiny metal, and Louis’s best guess was some sort of steel as opposed to silver. One had flowers engraved along the whole circumference of the ring, while the other was sleek and simple. Louis almost burst into tears there and then.
“You told me I didn’t have to marry you to prove I love you.” Legundo started, his hands shaking ever so slightly in a way that was so foreign to the doctor.
“But I want to dedicate everything I have to you both. I want to be yours for as long as you’ll let me.” He smiled nervously, still holding the box out while the pair gaped at him.
“I don’t want to live in fear anymore. I want to have you both in every possible way.” The Doctor took a breath, and looked up with such a serious and adoring look that Louis almost couldn’t return it.
“For eternity.”
Louis buffered for a solid minute, before he managed to choke out a strangled;
“F-for eternity?” He questioned, hope filling him up for just a moment.
Legundo nodded, smiling so brightly but so nervously Louis was afraid he was going to pass out before the vampire could say yes.
“I’m dying.” He said simply, and Owen flinched. “And I have been thinking for a long time that.. I’m not done yet.” Tears were starting to bead at the corners of Legundo’s eyes. Oh that wasn’t right. Legundo never cried. That wasn’t right at all.
“I want to be selfish this time. I want to spend more time with you both. I want to help more people. I want to do more.”
Legundo hastily wiped his eyes, smiling wider as he looked at Owen, who looked shell shocked.
“And I want to do it with you.”
A deafening silence settled over the trio, and Louis could feel his own tears finally bubbling up. He was about to scream ‘yes of course!’ At Legundo with all his might when Owen huffed beside him.
Owen’s eyes were full of tears, relief and anger. His lip wobbled as his glared at Legundo.
“Are you serious!” He hissed as his chest heaved trying to hold back angry sobs. Legundo faltered, his arm dropping slightly where he held out the box.
“After all this time. You just..” Owen choked, his fists clenching as he looked away from Legundo.
“After all my begging, and offers you just.. I wanted this so badly and I was prepared to...” He sobbed, tears falling down his face as he shook. Legundo looked away, and Louis felt a new drop of fear settle in his chest.
Legundo opened and closed his mouth a few times before smiling sadly.
“I’m sorry.” He croaked with a wet laugh. There was no humour behind it.
Owen took a deep breath, huffing a few tearful chuckles as he pressed the palms of his hands onto his eyes.
“You idiot.” Owen grumbled, looking back up at Legundo who looked absolutely devastated. “You absolute, indecisive, mortal idiot.”
Then Owen flung himself at Legundo. Louis feared the worst, and yelped accordingly. Their argument from before flashed in his mind and a newfound terror crept his way into his throat.
‘I might actually attack him this time’
‘I won’t let him do this to you.. to us.. without a fight.”
But just as Louis was about to reach out
... nothing happened. Owen had wrapped Legundo in a tight, angry and possessive hug. Louis sighed in relief, tapping at Owen’s sire-fledgling bond to find a sickening concoction of anger and bittersweet relief, along with a healthy dose of excitement.
“I hate you so much.” Owen hissed into Legundo’s ear as tears finally spilled from Legundo’s eyes and he wrapped Owen in his arms, shoving his face in the crook of the vampire's neck. The pair melted into each others embrace and Louis could feel Owen’s anger simmer out into a dull agitation.
A few moments passed before Owen pulled back, hitting Legundo on the upside of the head just to be petty. Louis couldn’t help but let out a relieved laugh, the stress and anxiety finally pouring out of him.
“..so is that.. a yes?”
Louis quickly shoved Owen to the side, sitting up with a newfound enthusiasm.
“Yes! It's a yes!” He yelped like the choice would be taken from him. Legundo visibly relaxed, gaining the biggest grin Louis had seen yet as Owen groaned on the ground and pulled himself back up. Legundo gave Owen a worried look, and Louis feared for one awful second that Owen might say no.
Owen wiped his nose with a sniff before laughing.
“Yes.” He said finally, and Louis cheered. Immediately he jumped at Legundo and smothered the poor man in kisses. Legundo laughed hardheartedly, reciprocating with just as much fervour as Louis was giving. Owen gave a wet giggle at the pair still wiping his eyes.
Louis could tell Owen was a bit bitter over the whole ordeal, but the relief of not losing the doctor outweighed any bitterness or resentment he might have. And Louis was just so happy to be able to say he had two fiancés and was absolutely ecstatic he wouldn’t have to mourn one. (He was going to get married!!!)
He didn’t even realise that between kisses he had steadily started to dissolve into intense breathy sobs, having to pull back from Legundo to wipe his eyes. He tried to smile but hiccuped so hard he swore his lungs tried to restart. Legundo and Owen’s earlier sappy, relieved smiles had morphed into worried frowns and Louis had to shove his face in his hands to hide from their pitiful expressions.
“..Louis?” Legundo asked anxiously and Louis shook his head between sobs. He hadn’t realised just how stressed he had been. Just how absolutely terrifying the concept of Legundo’s mortality had been for him. He felt like everything was pushing down on him, making him want to curl up in a ball and never be seen again.
“You- you mean it?” He hiccuped between his hands, trying in vain to pull himself together and wipe his eyes.
“Y-You’re staying?” He clasped his hands over his mouth as he looked up at Legundo, who looked suddenly frightened. Louis looked away, hiding behind his hands again.
“Oh Louis.” Legundo finally said, gently pulling Louis into a hug. Louis immediately melted into it, now hiding his face in the Doctor's chest. Legundo rocked Louis back and forth gently, pressing kisses to his forehead.
“Yes I’m staying.” Legundo whispered gently, and Louis found he felt very very small.
“Y-you.. you promise?” He choked, still hiding his face as Owen began rubbing his back soothingly.
“I do. I promise Louis. I promise I’m not going anywhere for a long time.”
That made Louis cry just a bit harder, his body shaking from the force of his sobs. Legundo shushed him gently, rocking him in such a soothing way that Louis felt like he was 6 years old again.
When Louis’s sobs finally began to die down, Legundo pulled back just a fraction so he could grab the earlier discarded ring box. He carefully removed the one with the floral etching, bringing it up to Louis, whose forehead was still pressed to the doctor's chest.
“Till death do us part?” He chuckled fondly, and Louis gave a wet laugh in return.
“Y-you’re supposed to wait for the wedding.” Louis babbled with a grin, and Legundo smiled cheekily.
“That's true.” He laughed, placing the ring on Louis’s finger and pressing a kiss to his forehead. Louis could all but purr at the attention, before he allowed himself to pull back slightly so Legundo could turn his attention to Owen.
The pair gazed at each other for a while, and at some point Louis could swear Owen was sizing Legundo up like prey.
Legundo held up the smooth ring and gently slid it on Owen’s finger. Owen stared at Legundo the whole time. When the ring was on he finally looked down and gazed at it longingly. It was untraditional, but Legundo had put both their rings on the opposite hand to where Louis and Owen’s own engagement rings sat. Louis loved it.
Owen’s gaze suddenly snapped up at Legundo again, but the doctor did not flinch. Instead he smiled, and Owen scowled, before cupping Legundo’s face and bringing him in for a heated kiss. Louis felt his face flush and he giggled, looking away to instead run his finger along the engravings.
Eventually though Legundo had to breath, pulling back for a moment as Owen continued to glare at him as if to say ‘I’m not done with you’. Louis giggled again, unable to keep his purring to himself as Legundo chuckled as well. The pressure was finally gone, and Louis felt like he could breathe.
“So.. we’re finally getting married?” Louis chirped excitedly, and Legundo laughed again.
“Yes, we’re finally getting married.” He gave Louis a kiss on the cheek and Louis preened at the attention.
“We can talk about specifics about that and.. well everything else later.” Legundo blushed, grabbing a sandwich for himself and handing the pair some bottles of crimson.
“For now, I think we celebrate.”
And Louis could do little to argue with that.
.
.
.
It took them two days to calm down from the high enough to start discussing plans.
It was easily agreed that Legundo should be turned before the wedding, allowing him to have time to recover and get used to his newfound vampirism and be fit enough for the wedding. Louis had insisted they have a proper wedding. He had dreamed of it since he was young and he loved parties. And a party celebrating him and his beloveds? It was a necessity for his mental health.
“Who would you like to turn you, my love?” Louis asked as he placed Legundo’s food on the table in front of him. (Wow.. soon he won’t have to cook for Legundo ever again.. a bit bittersweet.)
Legundo hummed in thought, fiddling with his fork as Owen dug into a steak beside him.
“I’ve been thinking about it.” Legundo nodded as he took a bite of his carrots.
“And?” Louis prompts, sitting down at the table and sipping away at his bottle of blood patiently.
“I think I want Owen to do it.”
Louis absolutely beamed. Owen paused where he was shredding the raw meat he had caught for himself with his teeth, staring at Legundo with a bewildered expression. He finished chewing and wiped the blood from his face.
“What??” Owen exclaimed, causing Louis to chuckle under his breath. Legundo nodded with an amused smile.
“I want you to turn me.” He affirmed, and Owen looked even more confused.
“Why me?? Wouldn’t you prefer Louis to do it?” He huffed, gesturing to Louis like it was obvious.
“I think it's a lovely idea!” Louis smiled, and Owen shot him an unamused look. Legundo just shrugged.
“It feels.. right for you to be the one to do it.” Legundo explained, shoving a bit of mashed potato in his mouth.
“Besides, you offered to do it in Oakhurst.” He said simply, and Owen scowled slightly.
“That's different and you know it.” He grumbled, “besides, Louis would be much gentler and probably has more experience-”
“I don’t really.” Louis interjected gently, “You were my first fledgling and I’d never drank from a human before turning you so..”
Owen grumbled again, sitting back in his seat properly and poking at his steak with a claw.
“If.. if you’re sure..” Owen mumbled, giving Legundo an odd look. Legundo just smiled, kissing the brunette's forehead.
“I’m sure.”
Louis clapped his hands excitedly before tucking into his own raw chicken that Owen had caught him.
When he next had a free moment after the proposal, he immediately began writing to Gem and Shelby. Sharing the news (with permission of course) and exclaiming his excitement for Legundo’s turning. Shelby had replied back very quickly, expressing her own excitement for them, and even more excitement for their wedding. (Louis assured her she’d get an invite.)
Gem had a similar excitement in her letter, with a few well placed threats towards Legundo and Owen about not ‘breaking Louis’s heart’. As always.
‘Tango sends his regards as well. He is already insisting the coven pays and hosts your wedding. I swear he’s acting like he’s the one getting married! I’ve told him off for you, so don’t worry. But expect letters!’
Louis had laughed at that one.
Legundo had sent letters to Cleo, Pearl and Abolish as well. The three of them were delighted. Abolish even came to visit, as he usually did nowadays and gave Legundo a hug unprompted. Louis swore Legundo was about to have a heart attack with how happy he looked.
Eventually, the topic of when and where Legundo would be turned arose. The place was easy: In the comfort of their bedroom. The time was a little more irritating. Legundo still had work that he insisted was too important to put off, and Owen also was on call for the carpenters workshop if needed. Louis hadn’t been too pleased but he understood being busy.
At some point Legundo must have noticed Louis’s impatience and talked to his colleagues about when he could possibly get a week or two off. Apparently his co-workers had been quite pleasantly surprised and told him he could take whenever he wanted off, given he wasn’t scheduled for anything important.
Louis was ecstatic to have two whole weeks of Legundo’s time, and the trio decided that the first day of the Doctor’s two weeks would be when he was turned. This would allow Legundo the time he needed to fully convert, while also allowing him to have a comfortable adjustment period to get used to his new abilities. Louis had no doubt that the doctor would pick it up fairly quickly.
The next couple of days were full of an anxious excitement that rivalled the days leading up to Owen’s own turning. Legundo spent most of those days at the clinic, tying up loose ends and making sure nothing would go wrong during his weeks off. Owen even told the carpenter straight up not to contact him for the next two weeks and he'd make up the lumber if they ran out while he was gone.
“You’re sure about this?” Louis asks as they settle down for bed. Tomorrows the day. Owen grumbled from where he’s sleepily tucked against Legundo’s side.
“Don’t say that now he might back out.” Owen chuckled and Legundo scoffed in amusement as well.
“I’m sure. Promise.” Legundo smiles, giving Owen an affectionate peck on the forehead as Louis rests his head on Legundo’s chest.
This would be the final night Louis would hear that steady heartbeat. The last night Louis would fall asleep to calm breathing and subtle snores. Come a few days Legundo would sleep beside them the same way they have slept for centuries. Motionless. Like corpses. So Louis would soak it all in for one last time, focusing wholly on Legundo’s breathing and heartbeat as both slowed in sleep. And if he let a few bittersweet tears fall, he didn't mind.
Louis smiled to himself as he gently ran a hand over Legundo’s chest, finding comfort in the thumping becoming slower as Legundo finally settled. Owen had fallen asleep not long after and Louis sighed contently as the sound of breathy snores rumbled against his ears and he too fell asleep.
.
.
.
When the trio woke the next day there was a steady thrum of excitement.
Louis yawned as he looked over to see Legundo and Owen squished together, whispering playfully at each other. Louis smiled, wrapping his arms around Legundo’s waist and resting his head on his shoulder.
“Good morning my loves, what are we whispering about?” Louis teased, pressing a kiss to Legundo’s bare shoulder.
“Who’d come to our wedding” Legundo informed him drowsily, resting the free hand that wasn’t wrapped around Owen on Louis’s hands wrapped around his waist.
“Mm, and that’s a troublesome topic?” Louis inquired as Owen grumbled.
“I don’t want Sausage to come, he’ll use it as writing material.” Owen said matter-of-factly and Louis couldn’t help but snort playfully.
“I don’t think that’ll be an issue.” Legundo hummed with a laugh and Owen pouted.
“But you're inviting Cleo.” He countered and Legundo hummed.
“Of course, she’s a close friend.”
“And if we’re inviting Cleo then we’re inviting Pearl.” Owen continued and Louis nodded.
“Of course, they’re a package deal.” Louis giggled and Owen nodded.
“And if we invite Pearl, then we’d probably have to invite Apo.”
“I didn’t think Pearl was particularly close with Apo..” Legundo mused with a smirk.
“If we invite Apo,” Owen continued, ignoring Legundo with a glare, “Then we’d have to invite Martyn.”
“I really don’t think we have to invite everyone-”
“And if we invite Martyn,” Owen huffed and Legundo and Louis were now struggling to hold in laughter.
“Then we have to invite Renhart. And if we invite Renhart then we have to invite Sausage. And I don’t want to invite Sausage.” Owen finished with a glare.
Legundo looked over his shoulder at Louis slightly before they both burst out laughing.
“What?” Owen grumbled, “You’re the one that taught me the weird social etiquette thing I thought that's how it worked!” He whined and that made the pair laugh harder. Owen frowned and smacked the pair playfully before they regained their composure.
“Okay okay,” Louis giggled, “In some situations I guess those rules apply but not this one.” That seemed to make Owen relax a bit and Louis smiled.
“Our wedding is supposed to be about us. We only invite who we want to.” He reached a hand out and used his thumb to smooth out the crease on Owen’s eyebrows gently.
“Good.” Owen huffed.
Eventually they did get up, heading to the kitchen for breakfast where Louis insisted on making Legundo his porridge. They chatted idly while they ate, their usual routine fitting perfectly around the bubbling anticipation. When Legundo finished his food the trio sat in an awkward silence for a moment, the vampires waiting for The Doctor to make the first move.
“.. maybe I should have picked something more exciting for a final meal.” Legundo commented with a good-natured grin, making Louis chuckle and Owen groan.
“We aren’t postponing so you can eat a three course meal.” Owen sighed fondly and Legundo smiled, “And don’t say it like you're heading to death row.” Both Louis and Legundo exchanged amused looks.
“I mean…” Louis joked and Legundo snorted. Owen refrained his laughter, batting playfully at Louis before Legundo stood up.
“Okay okay, lets just go upstairs before I lose my nerve.”
It was easy to decide where Legundo was going to be turned. The bed Owen had so lovingly crafted with the mass of pillows and blankets Louis had selected with care. Legundo had been the one to choose the mattress as he was the one that would have to suffer if it didn’t suit his needs. Louis considered it his nest. His old one back in Oakhurst had been destroyed with the rest of his old house, so he took pride in keeping this new one maintained like a nest. Legundo and Owen didn’t know that though, they thought the nest was the monstrosity Louis had created in the spare room for the fledglings. (Which it was, but that wasn’t his nest! It was for the Fledglings of course!)
Legundo sat in the middle of the bed, unlike his usual spot in the bed which was on the left side. (Louis was convinced this was because he wanted easy and fast access out of the bed at any time.) Louis usually slept in the middle with Owen on his right, but again Owen wasn’t picky where he slept so he usually moved around to squish himself against his chosen cuddle buddy for that night if he wasn’t wrapped around both of them.
Louis immediately began organising the pillows in the bed to be more comfortable for Legundo, having already grabbed a dark towel to put under the doctors head as to not stain the bed with his blood while Owen was feeding. Legundo must have been able to see Louis's anxious fretting as he reached out and squeezed his hand, causing Louis to smile fondly as he squeezed back.
"You're certain about this?" Louis really didn't want Legundo to change his mind, but he would feel so much worse if he didn't double check. He would never want the human to feel pressured into anything he didn't want. Legundo just smiled, kissing his hand.
"I'm certain." And Louis was glad for it.
"Okay." He nodded, Owen coming up on Legundo's other side and running a claw through the doctors buzzed hair. "It's going to be a little uncomfortable at first.. you'll feel dizzy and black out." Louis explained and Legundo hummed, leaning back on the pillow with an amused smile.
"Because I'll be dying." He said bluntly and Louis rolled his eyes.
"Yes, technically we are.. bleeding you out." Louis sighed and Owen huffed in amusement. "So it's going to feel like you're bleeding to death. But it'll be over soon, and you'll wake up in a few days feeling much stronger." Louis smiled, pressing a kiss to Legundo's cheek. His hands were shaking, so he clasped both his hands around Legundo's with a smile.
"I'll try be gentle." Owen said softly, and Legundo gave Owen such a warm look it made Louis's heart melt.
"I know." Legundo nodded, leaning in to give Owen a kiss. It was almost as hesitant as their first one. They both had been so unsure of their affection those first few months. It was adorable to see. Then they separated, their foreheads pressed together for a moment before the doctor turned to Louis. The vampire met him halfway in an equally as gentle kiss, savouring it for a moment before he pulled back and rested their forehead together like he had Owen. Then Legundo pulled away fully, one hand being held by Louis's and the other resting on Owen's thigh.
"See you in a few days then." Legundo smiled, and Louis returned it with a gentle squeeze. A tense silence passed before Owen leaned close, resting a hand on Legundo's chest and pressing a kiss to the doctors exposed neck. This would not be the first time Owen drinks from their beloved human, but it would be the first time that Owen won't have to control his urged to drink until he was full. Louis was nervous, but Legundo seemed completely trusting and calm as Owen pressed a few more kisses to his neck, before pulling back and opening his mouth to bite.
Louis squeezed Legundo's hand, and he squeezed back just as Owen bit down on the sensitive flesh. Legundo let out a breath as he always did when one of them fed on him, forcing his shoulders to relax before bringing his free hand up to cradle the back of Owen's head as the brunette began to drink. Long steady gulps, blood trickling down Legundo's collarbone from the corners of Owen's mouth. Louis decided he didn't want to watch, and pressed himself against Legundo's side, resting his head on the doctors shoulder, hands still clasped around Legundo's as the steady sound of Owen's swallows filled the space beside him.
Louis listened carefully to Legundo's breath and the sound of his beloved's heartbeat speeding up, before ever so slowly slowing down. His breathing evened out like he was sleeping. His heart got slower and slower as Owen gorged himself. Louis finally looked over at Owen to see Legundo gently petting Owen's hair as the young vampire continued to drink. His movements were becoming sluggish as time went on, until his hand just stilled on the back of Owen's neck, just resting there.Legundo's heartbeat was incredibly slow now.
Eventually, Owen stopped his drinking, licking the wound as it oozed steadily, lapping up any remaining blood greedily. Louis listened carefully as Legundo drew his last breath, and his heart did not pick up that steady beat again. Louis couldn't help the instinctual urge to feel scared for Legundo's life. He looked over at Owen, who was staring at Legundo with a very serious expression.
The two vampires waited with baited breath, before the familiar sensation of someone joining the ranks of the undead bristled up their spines and settle in their chests. The pair sighed in relief, collapsing on the now corpse of their beloved. Louis extended a hand over Legundo's chest for Owen to take, which he did, squeezing it gently.
"How long do you think its going to take?" Owen asked softly as he nuzzled into the remaining heat Legundo emitted, soon to be gone forever.
"That depends really." Louis sighed.
"How long does it usually take?"
"On average? A day," Louis explained, "You were a special case because of your illness. I suspect Legundo might take the same amount of time."
Owen nodded, looking up at Legundo's motionless features. Louis sighed contently, the faraway feeling of a fledgling being stitched to his own fledgling through the bond bringing him immense comfort. It would be harder the gain a connection with Legundo through the bond, but he had no doubt they'd manage it.
Now they just had to entertain themselves while Legundo slept.
.
.
.
Playing card games over the corpse of their Fiancé was not how Owen saw his two weeks off to go.
Louis had busted them out on the second day, as clearly neither of them were willing to leave Legundo's side, so there was no use 'dying of boredom' while they waited. They played games like switch, blackjack, old maid (Which was kind of anticlimactic with only two players) and go fish. Owen liked switch the most. It was simple and could be played with only two people a numerous amount of times and still be entertaining.
It was actually kind of fun. Like a sleepover. Which was.. odd to say given this was his fiancé and his other fiancé that was currently dead. But the card games were fun, and they even brought up some of their blood stash (including the alcohol) and were chatting away all through the day and into the night. They had never needed to sleep every night, they just joined Legundo because they enjoyed the closeness, so it was easy for them to stay awake for the next three nights of Legundo's turning.
If they got bored of the cards, Louis would read to Owen, or they'd snuggle up against Legundo and chat in hushed whispers as if not to wake the sleeping doctor.
"Your move, Amber." Louis purred as Owen stared at the card Louis had placed. Another two. If Owen didn't come up with a clever loophole or find a special card he would have to pick up six cards. Not fun. It was coming to the end of day three of Legundo being asleep, and the pair were convinced he was going to surpass Owen's sleep time. Owen looked up at Louis, who had a shit eating grin on his face, so Owen knew Louis could play this game forever and continue feeding Owen cards. (Louis didn't have a very good poker face.)
"This is abuse." He glared.
"Oh don't be a sore loser."
"I'm gonna file a complaint."
"With who?"
"Whatever vampire domestic abuse office is in Abolish's organisation."
Louis snorted, "What makes you think they have that?"
"Its a big building I'm sure I could find someone to complain to."
"I'm sure you could dear," Louis agreed sarcastically, "now please pick up."
Owen huffed in offence before grumpily picking up six cards from the draw pile. They weren't even good, which soured his mood more. Owen nodded for Louis to take his turn before his partner placed down the king of hearts and Owen threw his cards behind his head in a fit.
"Evil."
"Owen!" Louis gasped between fits of giggles, clutching his stomach and leaning back where he sat on the bed. Owen crossed his arms dramatically and gave a fake grumpy face, fighting off his own giggles.
"You know this might just be it for me." Owen sighed, "Social isolation, murder and discrimination don't hold a candle to this." Louis was fighting for his life as he clutched the bed sheets as more giggles overtook his body. Owen himself was struggling to keep composure as he laughed alongside his Fiancé.
"Whatever shall I do? How- How will I ever make it up to you?" Louis giggled, gripping Owen's forearm as Owen pretended to mull it over.
"Mm.. two kisses and calling a draw should fix my wounded soul I think." He smiled and Louis wiped his eyes with a wet giggle.
"Yes that sounds fair." Louis nodded, cupping Owen's cheek and giving him two long, exaggerated kisses to the lips, sound effects and all.
They parted with barely stifled giggles, which stilled very suddenly when they felt the bed shift beside them. The pair jolted, looking over at their sleeping partner to hear him softly groaning and shifting in sleep. Louis exchanged an excited glance with Owen before they shuffled closer to Legundo.
Legundo let out a few more tired huffs as his eyelid began fluttering from eye movement. The cards were now thoroughly forgotten as Legundo's eyes blinked open. That familiar green eye peered sleepily at the pair as Louis smiled in relief and excitement.
"Hello my love, how do you feel?" Louis prompted, taking Legundo's now freezing cold hand.
"..Cold." He muttered drowsily, rubbing beneath his eye socket where he had taken out his glass eye. Louis giggled, nodding.
"That's to be expected." He smiled.
"You sure took your time Doc." Owen purred, and Legundo chuckled as he sat up. Cards shifted and fell as he moved and the man gave a puzzled look.
"Were you playing cards.. on my stomach??" Legundo questioned. Louis tried to hide his smile behind his hand. They had been using Legundo as a makeshift table.. what else were they supposed to do? Place the cards on the uneven blankets? Play on the floor away from their beloved? He'd think not.
"You're a surprisingly good table." Louis teased, pressing a kiss to Legundo's cheek as the new vampire gave an amused huff.
"Well go on then," Owen grinned, running a thumb along the newest scar to litter Legundo's neckline, "Show us your fangs." Legundo smiled, opening his mouth to present two little pinprick teeth. Louis cooed at them as Legundo ran his tongue over them with newfound curiosity.
"They're so tiny!" Louis purred and Legundo shrugged.
"Will they grow?" The youngest vampire asked.
"Of course they will darling," Louis smiled with another kiss to Legundo's cheek, "Just look at Owen's, they didn't get like that overnight!" Owen puffed his chest proudly, licking at his own fangs, which he had been told were quite the spectacle in vampire culture.
"Only Louis gets baby fangs." Owen teased and Louis gasped in offence.
"Owen!" He whined and Legundo chuckled.
"Why are they so small anyway?" Legundo queried and Louis pouted.
"I was turned when I was young, my mother told me they would grow but eh.." Louis shivered. His fangs were by no means large, but they were still relatively noticeable and Louis had never seemed to have any issues feeding. Owen actually found them quite darling, and they suited Louis's docile nature well. Legundo and Owen did exchange glances thought. Louis rarely talked about his life before joining the Harkers and neither of them pushed.
"It's okay, I think they're cute." Owen smiled, giving Louis an affectionate kiss that seemed to brighten his mood.
"Why thank you!" Louis purred, before turning to Legundo. "but I digress, how do you feel?" Louis tried to get back on track and Legundo shrugged.
"..Good, actually. I'm not sore anymore."
"Told you." Owen rolled his eyes in a tease and Louis batted at him.
"Ignore him, anything else?"
"..I'm really hungry."
"Oh!" Louis jumped, grabbing a blood bottle from the box they had brought up. "Again, that's to be expected. Drink as much as you like." Legundo took the bottle, opening it and giving it a sniff. Legundo obviously wasn't a stranger to blood given his partners and profession, but the man still wrinkled his nose slightly as he hesitated.
"I promise it's not that bad." Louis comforted, petting Legundo's head lovingly.
"Trust me, it's addicting." Owen flashed a grin that was all fangs and Legundo gave him an unimpressed stare. Louis sighed and shook his head fondly. Eventually the Doctor gained the nerve to press the bottle to his lips. He closed his eyes in anticipation before beginning to drink. The moment the blood touched his lips he visibly relaxed, instincts taking over as he chugged the whole bottle, only for another to pressed into his palm. He chugged that one too, only to be given another. This time he slowed down, taking a swig before just holding it.
"Okay.. it tastes.. different." Legundo winced as he took another sip. Louis just shrugged and Owen nodded.
"Vampirism does that." He confirmed. Blood definitely tasted different once being turned. Owen used to cough up blood for a living, so when he turned the taste was noticeable. Depending on what you were drinking, the blood had a different taste. Even human blood tasted different from person to person.
"My head feels weird." Legundo commented after a moment, still sipping at his crimson. Louis brightened at that.
"That would be Owen. And me probably." He chirped brightly, and Legundo nodded in understanding. Owen smiled, pressing against the fresh bond that had been stitching itself to his soul the past few days during Legundo's sleep. The doctor gasped, clumsily trying to press back, but it was mostly just his bond flexing slightly. Louis and Owen both giggled at his efforts.
"This is what you both feel?" The doctor hummed, gears turning in his head. Owen knew the new vampire was making many mental notes. Mostly because his shielding was horrible and as his sire Owen could feel everything going on, if a bit fuzzy.
"Mhm," Louis smiled, "right now your bond is very fragile, so it'll take a while before you're able to control it. You'll even be able to interact with us."
"..That sounds complicated.. and invasive."
Louis laughed, "Don't worry, you'll learn to shield things from us eventually. It only took Owen a couple months." Owen preened at the praise, grinning proudly again. He couldn't help but lap it up. He liked being an impressive vampire.
They started cleaning up the cards and putting them away before helping Legundo out of bed. He was a bit wobbly and drowsy from his long sleep but otherwise he seemed a lot better. Paler than usual, but better.
The next few days were.. softer than Owen anticipated. Legundo had a lot to learn and Louis was ecstatic to teach him. Owen never got to experience being taught by a sire like fledglings were supposed to be, so it was odd to see. Owen had to learn everything he knew through trail and error and general instincts.
Owen tried to teach Legundo what he knew, but Louis was a far better teacher and had so much more experience. It was another reason Owen wished Legundo had asked Louis to turn him. He makes a much better sire compared to Owen. But he couldn't help but feel a bit proud of being Legundo's sire. Owen had always been a bit possessive.
But Legundo took it all in stride. He adapted well in Owen's opinion, and as he had predicted: Legundo made a very handsome vampire.
Louis and Owen did try to take Legundo hunting but he didn't seem.. to excited. "I don't know about this. Feels archaic." Legundo complained as Owen tried to help him sneak through the forest.
"It's not just about killing food my love." Louis tried to comfort him. "It's about learning to use your new senses. A fledgling's first hunt is important in vampire culture!" The elder vampire pouted and Legundo sighed in defeat.
"Okay yeah." He grumbled as Owen chuckled.
"Cheer up. My first hunt was the massacre." Owen grinned and Legundo and Louis frowned.
"That makes me feel so much better." Legundo huffed sarcastically. Louis looked uncomfortable, which made Owen regret his attempt at humour, but he didn't say anything more.
Legundo managed to kill a pig and a chicken before he started looking a little ill and Louis decided to grant the poor doctor mercy and head home early. Owen hadn't taken him to be squeamish given his profession but he often found it difficult to understand the doctor.
Heaven knows that Owen and Louis knew far to much about Legundo's past from drinking his blood. But now Owen knew an uncomfortable amount about Legundo's past. All the way to childhood, and still he found it hard to know what the doctor was thinking outside the bond. Obviously the memories he was given were in hazy bits and pieces but he was puzzling it all out over the first week. Some of it made even Owen's stomach churn. But he tried not to be hypocritical.
Legundo hadn't eaten meat in a very long time, and raw meat made him look even more ill when he was given some. So they opted for bottled blood instead, as it was all the doctor could really stomach. Owen was starting to worry Legundo might not be able to handle vampirism.
Out of all three of them, Legundo was definitely the one that took the longest to gather himself. He struggled with adjusting to his advanced sight and hearing, miscalculating distances and loosing balance. He often forgot to cover himself a little better when going outside and coming back with aggressive sunburns. Once he forgot he didn't need his medicine anymore and ended up throwing it up. He was getting rather frustrated.
It was actually sort of healing for Owen, to see Legundo getting upset over mundane things.. as awful as that sounds. Seeing Legundo get mad was a rare occurrence, and he almost found it amusing when the doctor gritted his teeth and splashed his face with cold water.
"You're allowed to get a bit angry my love." Louis grinned as Legundo rubbed his palms together with his eyes closed tight. "It might actually help.. vampirism heightens emotions, so there's no use fighting it." Legundo growled, surprising himself and clutching his hands together tighter.
"Sorry.." He muttered, and Owen couldn't help but laugh. Legundo gave him a barely contained glare as another growl vibrated from his chest.
"Come on Legs, I have an idea." Owen grinned, throwing the doctors boots at him. Legundo's jaw looked like it was about to snap as he grumpily strapped on his boots and followed Owen outside the house into the night air. They walked to the log placed beside the stack of logs Owen chopped for the winter and the cart filled with wood for the carpenter, before picking up an un-chopped log and placing it on the bigger one.
Legundo gave Owen an irritated look, his newly pointed ears shifting, not quite long enough to do a proper flick. Owen stifled a laugh, handing Legundo the hilt of his axe. "Don't be afraid to yell a bit. It helps."
Legundo went to growl again but shook his head and stopping it abruptly. "Don't do that." Owen huffed, "It's better just to let it out." Legundo didn't look convinced, but took the axe from Owen, his shoulders tense and his jaw tight. He spent a few seconds positioning himself before he lifted the axe and split the wood first try.
Owen said nothing and placed another on the log. Legundo took a deep breath, lifting the axe again and striking the wood with even more force than the last. Owen grabbed another and placed it on the log.
"Come on Legs, put your back into it." Owen teased as the doctor struck the next log. Owen put another on. "You too self righteous to make a little noise?" He taunted and the doctors face soured more as he brought the axe down again. Owen placed another.
"Come on, give me something. A growl, a hiss maybe?" Owen grinned and Legundo brought the axe down with an angry grunt. Well it was something.
"I'm not a cat." He snapped and Owen cooed mockingly.
"Awe poor Legundo.. he thinks he's to good for his instincts." Owen placed another. "Get over yourself." He laughed, making Legundo finally growl properly as he brought the axe down again. Owen placed another. The Doctor gave a yell as he split the wood. Then again. And again. And again. Each strike accompanied by a well placed growl, hiss or yell. Owen found it hopelessly attractive.
Eventually Owen didn't place another, and Legundo stared at him expectantly. His jaw was looser now, as were his shoulders, but he continued to glare at Owen before he looked away with a soft hiss. "Another..please." He asked, and Owen smiled playfully.
"Try again." Owen fake yawned, examining his claws. Legundo looked at him, a bit confused. They continued the weird staring contest until finally Legundo let out a low growl, his eyes darkening.
"Another." He demanded, his fangs snapping irritably at the older vampire. Owen grinned in victory.
"My pleasure." He teased, maintaining eye contact with Legundo as he placed another log. The doctor immediately swung with a sharp hiss, the axe imbedding in the log below.
"You are so irritating." Legundo spat and Owen barked a laugh.
"That's the point Doc." When Owen didn't place another log Legundo growled, picking one up himself and placing it down.
"Someone's impatient." Owen teased, and Legundo growled again.
"Aren't you supposed to be helping me let of steam?" He snapped, "You're just making me more mad."
"You're holding back." Owen said simply. "I'm just helping you let loose." Legundo looked at him, dumbfounded.
"Do you want me to attack you or something?" Legundo hissed as he split another log. Owen smiled, shrugging.
"Whatever lets you let loose." He smiled and Legundo dropped the axe with a huff.
"I need to punch something." Legundo hissed, pressing his palms to his forehead. Owen nodded, leading Legundo to a nearby tree. It already had countless claw marks and indents from Owen's own temper tantrums. Legundo stared at it for a moment.
"Shouldn't I wrap my hands?" Owen scoffed at that.
"You're a vampire." He patted the side of the tree as Legundo sighed, bringing his fists up.
"Show that tree who's boss." Owen teased and Legundo threw him a glare and a growl as he started throwing punches. Owen sighed, he was holding back again.
"I thought you were solider? Come on, don't hold back." A sore spot, definitely, but it did the trick. The wood creaked uncomfortably under Legundo's fists, the already damaged wood chipping off in flakes. Owen decided to keep his mouth shut now, as he really didn't want a fist to his stomach.
Legundo let out a guttural scream as he took one more punch with all his might, causing the tree to snap at the base and topple over, hitting into the tree behind it and causing that one to fall backward too, landing with a loud thud against the bushes behind them. Bird cawed and scattered as Legundo stared, letting out one shaky breath before looking at his hands.
They were stained red from blood, but the cuts and blisters were already closing. Owen took the doctors hands and kissed each knuckle in turn before giving him a toothy grin.
"Feel better?" Owen asked and Legundo sighed, pressing his forehead to Owen's.
"Yeah." He frowned. Owen smiled, giving him a kiss on the cheek before leading a tired Legundo back inside for a snack and a long nap.
.
.
.
After the whole 'letting off steam' thing, Louis decided to take a softer approach to Legundo's struggles.
The doctor still went out and chopped logs whenever he felt like his anger was becoming unmanageable (he pointedly never punched a tree again) but that initial session seemed to have sobered Legundo up quite a bit.
"I think you should be nesting more." Louis told him once over breakfast. Since Legundo had been turned, the man avoided sleeping like the plague. Which was very unhealthy for freshly turned fledglings.
"Nesting?" Legundo asked, taking another sip of his crimson.
"Yeah!" Louis smiled, "Like, staying in the nest and just like.. getting lost in your instincts for a while." He explained clumsily. "It should help." Legundo gave him a sour look.
"I don't like the idea off.. 'getting lost in my instincts.'" The younger vampire grumbled, and Louis giggled.
"It's not bad. It just makes you sleepy and your sire sends you comfortable feelings." Legundo nodded, but still had an uncomfortable look on his face.
"Isn't that just.. sleeping with extra steps?" The doctor queried and Louis chuckled again.
"No, you're not actually asleep. It kind of feels like it but you know everything that's going on and there's no dreaming." Louis promised, and Legundo nodded, clearly liking the idea a little better. "It's really important for newly turned fledglings to nest occasionally."
Louis decided to leave out the fact that it was usually a practice for children who were turned young. Louis hadn't expected Legundo to struggle so much with his vampirism, so he hadn't considered the idea. But clearly Legundo needed a little extra support, and nesting was supposed to help with regulating a fledglings senses and emotions, so it should hopefully help Legundo.
"Fine." Legundo said as he finished off his meal and wiped his mouth clean. Louis smiled brightly and gave the doctor a kiss.
Walking up the stairs Legundo paused as Louis went for their bedroom door. "I thought the nest was in the spare room? The big box you insisted on making." Legundo gave Louis a sceptical look and Louis blushed.
"Well.. uh. That's for the fledglings." Louis smiled and Legundo narrowed his eyes.
"You're telling me our bed has been your nest the entire time."
"Our nest darling!" Louis smiled. Legundo hummed, thinking for a moment before grinning.
"Have you been secretly nesting Owen for the past 8 years?" Louis blushed harder.
"No! Of course not." He insisted, "…Just the first two." He smiled, opening the bedroom door as Legundo laughed.
Louis had already made their bed that morning so it wasn't to difficult to get Legundo situated. Legundo always slept on his back, so Louis made sure every limb had a pillow and Legundo kept giving him odd looks but didn't complain.
"If a sire has to be here shouldn't Owen be..?" Legundo gestured and Louis smiled with a shrug. Owen had left early in the morning with his axe and a scowl so Louis wasn't anticipating him home until late.
"We still have a bond, it just might not be as strong." Louis kissed Legundo's forehead with a smile. "Besides, nesting isn't a difficult practice for me." Legundo nodded in understanding as Louis combed a hand through Legundo's close cropped hair.
"Now close your eyes, Baby." Louis smiled, "And try to relax." Legundo blushed, closing his eyes while Louis continued to pet his Fiancé's head. He purred soothingly, tapping gently at Legundo's bond. It was small, and a little more distant than Owen's one was, but it was also new and fragile; so it wasn't difficult to push calming feelings into Legundo's head. Legundo immediately went limp, his muscles loosening as he let out a content sigh. Louis couldn't help but smile.
Louis pushed as much love and peace through the bond as he could, gently caressing Legundo's face and head as he purred gently into the space of their bedroom to calm the weary doctor more. The new fledgling smiled drowsily, clumsily trying to push against Louis's bond. He hadn't quite figured it out yet but Louis couldn't help but giggle at the attempt, pressing a kiss to the doctors nose.
A memory, wedged its way into Louis's skull: one of his mother. She was singing a sweet lullaby to a young Louis, curled up in their new nest. Louis had all but forgotten the song, but the melody lodged it's way into his skull. He smiled sadly, allowing himself to hum the sweet tune as he nuzzled his nose against Legundo's.
Legundo let out another soft sigh, drowsy eyes blinking up at Louis with such adoration. Louis smiled down at him, continuing the tune as Legundo began to purr. Louis smiled wider, bending down to kiss Legundo's cheek.
"You found your purr sweet thing." Louis cooed adoringly, running the back of his hand along Legundo's cheek as the man continued to purr. Legundo had never looked cuddly before, but resting in this nest with a smile on his lips and a purr in his chest Louis could definitely describe him as such. Legundo hummed in acknowledgement, rolling over clumsily to press his face against Louis.
"Keep hummin'" Legundo yawned as Louis helped him lay in his lap, arms wrapped around the elder vampires waist. "It's pretty." He sighed with a purr, melting into Louis lap. Louis cooed again, running a hand down Legundo's spine before picking up the melody again. It was almost amusing to see Legundo like this. Even freshly woken up he was never drowsy. He was always on alert. Louis was so thrilled Legundo allowed himself this comfort.
Louis rested his head against the backboard of the bed as he continued to massage Legundo's scalp and hum his mothers lullaby. Legundo was a loud purr-er. Even louder than Owen, which pleased Louis greatly. Legundo wasn't as clingy as either of his partners, but at that moment he had Louis in a vice grip. His fingers occasionally squeezed Louis's waist and nuzzled his head against Louis thighs making Louis awe at the big softie beneath him. And to think people thought this man looked intimidating. Legundo could definitely be soft with his partners, but this was the softest Louis had seen him.
And God help him if he wasn't going to milk this moment of everything it was worth.
.
.
.
With the two weeks coming to an end, Legundo felt.. not ready to be frank.
He didn't say it to his partners, because he knows that they'll say, but he was stressed as all hell to go back to work. He didn't feel.. like himself yet. He had so many aspects of his vampirism he hadn't figured out yet, and he felt all out of sorts. He felt better physically but he still.. he was stilling coming to terms with everything. He had been so certain he wanted to die when nature decided it was time but..
He didn't want to worry his loved ones. Abolish had come by during the second week with some paperwork and to chat. He ended up staying the night and Legundo couldn't have been more pleased when Abolish let him and Louis make him dinner and breakfast. He even cozied up on the couch with them all and took a nap. That definitely made him think his decision was worth it, just so he could have more moments like that.
"Are you sure you're ready to head back to work?" Louis asked, looking up at Legundo where he rested in his lap. Owen had his back pressed on his other side while he whittled a new project.
"Yeah of course." He lied.
"He's lying." Owen said simply. Louis rolled his eyes.
"I know." Louis said and Legundo frowned.
"Stop poking in my brain." He complained and Owen snorted.
"We don't have to. You're shielding is awful." He sighed dramatically, flopping his head against the doctor's shoulder. Legundo huffed irritably.
"The teach me how to shield."
"Then you would get away with lying to us." Louis grinned, reaching up and booping Legundo's nose. He sighed, taking Louis's hand and gently moving it away.
"Yeah okay." He still didn't like it.
"Just take another week off." Owen said simply as Legundo rubbed his temple.
"I can't do that, two weeks is long enough." He huffed firmly and Louis sat up with a frown.
"You hardly ever take a sick day never mind a weekend off." Louis pouted. "This is the longest we've ever had you to ourselves." Louis cupped one hand against Leg's cheek and pulled him closer to kiss his other. Legundo frowned at that, feeling a little guilty.
"My job is important."
"Mm, sounds like you're married to the job." Louis pouted, turning to Owen who had turned around to face them both. "And I thought he wanted to marry us?" He sighed dramatically and Legundo couldn't help but blush.
"Louis.." He grumbled and Owen sighed dramatically as well, placing a hand to his forehead in a pantomime that could rival Scott's antics.
"Can't believe it.. we lose to scalpels and bodily fluids." He frowned, draping himself over Legundo.
"Mm, we see how it is." Louis agreed with a cheeky look at Owen. Before the doctor could complain any more Louis quickly straddled Legundo's lap, with a fake look of despair on his face as he ran his hands up his chest to his shoulders and back.
"Just one more week Legs?" Louis pleaded, giving Legundo his biggest roundest puppy dog eyes. "Just one more week of you alllllll to ourselves?" The vampire split into a grin and Legundo felt his face getting hotter by the second. Owen was not helping with his roaming hands.
"No use wearing out our soon to be husband right?" Louis grinned and Legundo swallowed, unable to find his voice…. He was enjoying this way to much.
"Oh? Do you like that?" Louis teased, kissing his cheek. "Going to be our husband? Our beautiful husband?" He whispered low into his ear and Legundo felt his entire body temperature spike as his head went 'POP'.
He heard Louis and Owen yelp in unison when Legundo noticed the hands and bodies pressed against him were gone. He looked up, his brain still a puddle that he was surprised it wasn't leaking out his ears. Louis was staring down at him with wide eyes, before pressing his hands to his cheeks and letting out a very pleased squeak.
"Aweee!" Louis cooed, scooping up the now tiny Legundo in his hands. "Aren't you the most handsome bat I've ever seen." Legundo blinked, chirping in confusion before finally getting enough brainpower back to understand what had happened.
He had turned into a bat. A rather fuzzy bat that was almost bigger than both of Louis's hands. Legundo gave his wings an experimental flex, flicking his big ears around the room before Owen gently grabbed one of the Doctor's wings. He spread the wing out, running a thumb along the thin skin between each finger of the wing.
"You're a big bat." Owen awed and Legundo tried to glare at him, but he wasn't really sure how that would translate with his new bat features.
"Excuse me?" Legs chirped irritably, making Owen chuckle. Louis pressed a finger to Legundo's head, giving him some scratches.
"You are a big bat" Louis confirmed, planting a few kisses to Legundo's fuzzy head, smoothing out his ears with his thumb. Legundo let out a few squeaks before Louis also shifted into a bat, making Legundo land with a soft thud on the couch. Owen followed suite, and Legundo could see that he indeed was: a big bat.
He could definitely hide both his partners underneath his wings. He had seen Louis and Owen as bats before, but it was weird to see their fuzzy little faces in this new perspective. Louis immediately began licking the side of Legundo's face.. which wasn't as gross as he was expecting given he had fur and they were now bats. Though he did make an offended squeaking noise that Louis ignored in favour of smoothing out the fur on the doctors head with his tongue.
"Such a distinguished bat." Louis cooed, giving his cheek a nuzzle that Legundo returned. "So pretty." If Legundo was in his human (vampire?) form he would've blushed, but he wasn't so he instead partially hid his face behind a wing. Louis giggled, squeezing himself under Legundo's wing to cuddle up beside him. Owen did the same, giving Legundo a few affectionate licks and nuzzles before making himself comfortable.
"Okay then, make yourself at home." Legundo rolled his eyes sarcastically, hunkering down and wrapping his Fiancé's tighter in his wings and letting out a content sigh. Their bodies were a lot warmer as bats strangely enough, and the fur made them even more comfortable to rest against. Legundo wasn't complaining.
The comfortable silence rested for a moment before Legundo smiled with a fake sigh. "Fine." He said and Owen gave him a questioning hum. "One more week." He confirmed, and the pair cuddled against him cheered. Louis reached up and gave Legundo one big lick and a nuzzle to the side of his face.
"But that's it. Don't try pushing your luck with another." Legundo insisted and Owen grinned.
"Whatever you say Doc."