Lab Partners (O/O, closed)

(yes pls)

(You gon go?)

(Sorry, got distracted)

The following day, school was boring as per usual. Zane made it through, just, but he did, really only because he was looking forward to hanging out with Nemo. The boy intrigued him and he wanted to become friends. So he was at his car as soon as the bell rang pretty much, leaning against the hood with his arms crossed as he waited.

(nah all good)

The three Hart kids that went to the same school came walking out, Arthur and Merlin in front and Nemo behind them. He was talking on the phone. They had to pick up Phillip, who was currently on adventures across the street with his best friend Liam.

Zane gave a two fingered salute to the three of them, offering a small, somewhat tired and strained smile too, "Hey there." He said once they were close enough.

By then, Nemo had finished his call. "Go get Phillip," He said to the twins, and they walked across the road. "Hey," He said to Zane.

Zane’s smile grew a fraction, “Hey. How was your day?” He asked, crossing his arms in front of his chest.

"Same as it always is. Spent either run the library or the back of the class."

He nodded, "Where'd your brothers go?"

"Um, Phillip's across the road at his best friends house. He stays there cause he's not old enough to come to school. Our parents are doctors so they can't look after him during the day. I usually look after my brothers until our parents get home. It's normal. Has been for years."

He nodded again, "Sounds like you've got everything under control. Then again I'd expect nothing less," He sighed, "I don't… I don't have any siblings so I've never had to worry about stuff like that."

Nemo shoved his hands in his pocket. "I don't mind it. I…" He paused. "I thought I said that you didn't need to drive us."

"I know you did, but I want to." He said quietly while he shrugged.

"Why? It's not like we're going to be friends after this project."

"And you know that how? Maybe you should stop questioning me, and let it happen. If I want to be friends after this then I see no reason why we can't be."

"So you're guessing that I want to be friends?" Nemo retorted. "That shows your fucking ego."

"That's not- I didn't-" He looked to the ground with a small frown, "I'm sorry, we don't have to be friends if you don't want to. I'm an idiot, I know. Don't worry."

"You know yesterday you said you'd date me if you were gay."

Zane blushed a little, "I know. I'm sorry if the comment made you uncomfortable."

"Did you…mean it?" Nemo asked, his cheeks slightly red.

He looked up and smirked, a playful glint in his eye as he nodded, ""Course I did."

"You also called me Pretty Boy. Twice."

"It's true. I was just stating the obvious."

"Are you sure you're not gay? Straight guys don't usually point that out."

"I'm not gay, I'm sure of it."

Nemo took a step closer. "Straight men do not call other men Pretty Boy."

"I'm. not. gay." Though he sounded less sure of himself.

"If you're so sure," Nemo said. He looked across the road to see Phillip running towards him, with the twins trailing behind.

Zane released a small breath, "Yeah…" He turned and climbed into the car.

As Phillip reached Nemo, he turned and let the 6 year old onto his back. He looked at Zane and then started walking home.