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Chapter Text

Briar stood awkwardly at the corner of the party, playing with the straw of her drink.

Normally, she would be right up there dancing and chatting with everyone- the life of the party - but there was something different about this party that wasn’t like the others.

For one it was Faybelle’s party. She was her villian, after all. They hadn’t been on best terms ever since Epic Winter, so it came as a surprise when a dark blue invitation was slipped under her door addressed for ‘Briar Beauty.’ 

In swirly, sharp writing it wrote “Come celebrate all things Faybelle, with this enchanting and mandatory event.If you don’t come, I’ll place a curse on you.” with Faybelle’s picture pointing menacingly up at her on the front. 

This made Briar laugh to herself at the time, exchanging glances with Ashlynn (she’d similarly gotten an invite) who rolled her eyes.

But it also made the princess wonder why she’s been invited in the first place. Why would the villain of her story want her to go to something as personal as her party?

However, this feeling of confusion didn’t last long - seemingly the dark fairy had invited the entire school , perhaps to make up for all the parties she hadn’t been invited to because of her curse. 

This made something in Briar stir slightly for a reason she couldn’t quite explain - she had only been invited because everyone else had - no other reason. 

The majority of people who were at the party were rebels and villains Faybelle shared General Villiany class with, along with some other people Briar knew such as Raven,Kitty and Lizzie.Despite being a sociable person, Briar wasn’t really feeling the party and couldn’t quite strike up conversation with anyone,

There was another party on at the same time - Hunter’s party - which, to Briar’s surprise, many people had risked being cursed to go to, including Ashlynn. Occasionally, her roommate would dash in , wave at Briar, then hurriedly dash back out again to go to the other party, leaving Briar alone.

Briar sighed, taking a sip of punch. Out of the corner of her eye she spotted Duchess Swan talking with Ramona Badwolf and she made her way over to the pair. 

Ramona noticed Briar’s arrival and she greeted her with a casual “‘Sup.”

Duchess noticed her too but didn’t say anything,an unreadable expression on her face.

Briar ignored her “Heyyyy,” she smiled “What you guys up to?”

Ramona shrugged “Nothing much. Just chatting.”

An awkward silence fell between them before Briar coughed.

“Have you guys seen Faybelle? I’ve been meaning to speak to her.”

At this Duchess smirked deviously, to which Ramona elbowed her “Uh yeah , she’s by the stage, she’ll probably be doing her ‘Faybelle’ slideshow though, so you’ll have to be quick to catch her.”

“Thanks,” Briar smiled again before heading over to the stage in search of Faybelle. What was Duchess’s problem? 

There she found the dark fairy organising things - yelling at some younger fairies. “The Faybelle cupcakes go over by the dance floor not over here!” She yelled at a particularly petrified looking one startling them. 

Briar cleared her throat patiently and Faybelle turned to the other girl, demeanour softening ever so slightly “Oh. Hey.”

She was wearing a long, dark blue dress with flecks of silver and hints of teal. Her hair was tied up in in a high ponytail adorned with thorns, with two strands of hair framing her face. She looked truly hexellent - it made Briar feel slightly underdressed.

Briar smiled awkwardly “Could I talk to you?” 

“Sure Beauty - could we talk in like 20 minutes? The slideshow’s starting soon,” Faybelle responded “You can sit down if you want.”

Briar nodded , taking a seat as she watched Faybelle climb onto the stage to behind a lector. The fairy shot her a grin before tapping on a microphone “Ahem,” she announced “The Faybelle Slideshow will be starting soon - make your way to the seats by the stage.”

There was hustle and bustle as people started filtering into the seating. 

Briar noticed that Hopper had made his way over to her, planting himself in the seat next to her. 

“Hey Briar,” He leant closer to her putting his arm around the top of her seat “You look fabellous tonight.” She could feel his hot breath near her face.

Briar smiled uncomfortably, scooting away a bit “Thanks Hopper, you too.” 

At this he stammered until inevitably he turned into a frog with a poof of smoke. 

She grimaced before turning her attention to the stage where the slideshow had begun.

Various selfies flicked across the big screen to varying levels of ‘oooo’s and ‘ahhhh’s form the crowd - Faybelle with the Evil Queen, Faybelle during Dragon Games, Faybelle cheerhexing. Briar watched , an amused half-smile on her face until one photo in particular caught her attention.

It was a selfie - like the others - with Faybelle posed in front of the lense , but in the background was her friendgroup looking very confused at the spontaneous photo. Apple looked inconvenienced, Ashlynn slightly annoyed and finally there was Briar, confused but also amused as she held up a quick peace sign to the camera.

Briar smiled fondly - she remembered that brief moment and was surprised Faybelle hadn’t deleted the photo.

When the slideshow reached its end , Faybelle made her way back down from the stage .

“So ,” she asked “What did you think?”

“It was good,” Briar replied “Lots of photos of you.”

Faybelle’s grin widened and she flicked her hair back sassily “I know. That’s what made it so great.”

Briar giggled at this rolling her eyes. 

“So ,” Faybelle put her hands on her hips looking up at Briar, wings fluttering gently “What did you want to talk about, princess?”

Briar paused, her smile faltering slightly “ Oh… yeah … I wanted to talk about what we are...”

Faybelle looked at her.

“About our destiny.”

The fairy took a sharp breath in “Oh yeah? What about it?”

“Are we really enemies anymore?”

Faybelle went silent.

“I - I don’t want you to be my villain,” she continued reaching for Faybelle’s hand “I want to be your friend instead.”

Faybelle winced letting her take it “I know…I don’t want to be enemies either. You’re making this hard for me, Beauty.” She let out a pained laugh.

“So you’re not going to curse me?” Briar questioned “We’re friends?” 

“Nope,” Faybelle squeezed her hands “But I’m still evil, just so you know - just because we’re friends doesn’t mean you can go around killing my bad guy persona.”

The brunette smiled “You’re still terrifying , got it.”

Faybelle returned it, her canines glinting as she grinned. 

Then they parted ways Faybelle returning to her host duties , bossing people around and Briar returning to standing around in the corner, hugging herself awkwardly.

Briar felt her face flush slightly from what she assumed was relief as she watched the fairy leave. That was good - they were friends. 

Just friends.

Chapter Text

Eventually, Briar found Raven who was talking to Kitty Cheshire, who quickly vanished when Briar came near. 

“Hey,” Briar greeted the rebel “Enjoying the party?”

Raven nodded, grinning “It’s… certainly something,” she tapped the Faybelle ice statue looming ominously over the drinks table.

“How about you?” She asked , taking a sip of punch “I saw you talking to Faybelle - is everything okay between you two?”

Briar smiled “Yep! Well she’s not going to curse me so it’s a start - I think we’re friends.”

Briar covered her mouth with a yelp “Hex! I shouldn’t of told you that - she still wants to maintain her reputation - I can’t go around telling everyone we’re besties.”

Raven laughed “It’s fine, I won’t tell anyone,” she added “It’s good you’ve come to an agreement about your destiny though.”

“Yeah…” Briar continued “She’s still the same old Faybelle though.” She glanced over at the fairy, feeling like her insides were burning “Still herself…” her voice trailed off.

Raven looked at the girl, a look of compassionate understanding crossing her face.

The goth opened her mouth to add something but before she could speak she was interrupted by gasps and shout from across the room

“What the hex?!!!” Faybelle’s voice boomed, angrily “What are you wearing?!”

There stood Holly, Ashlynn, Poppy and Farrah. They had been caught sneaking away to Hunter’s party. Everyone seemed to be collectively holding their breaths.

Realisation crossed the dark fairy’s face and her eyes narrowed.

Oh no.  

“You’ve been sneaking out to go to that over party!” Faybelle raised her hands, blue magic crackling dangerously “I am so putting a curse on you!”

Before Faybelle continued, Ashlynn interrupted her nervously “Hey - did you know that they have a carousel at the other party?”

Faybelle paused, lowering her hands “Really?”

Ashlynn nodded. A grin spread across Faybelle’s face. She turned to one of the other fairies. “Grab the drinks - we’re going to that other party.”

~

Hunter’s party was an entirely different vibe to Faybelle’s - it was bright and sunny outside and everyone was decked out in casual, spring clothes. 

When they arrived, Hunter’s smile lit up his face when he saw Ashlynn.

He picked her up and twirled her around as she giggled smiling widely. “So,” he asked “Are you girls properly staying this time?”

“Yeah,” Ashlynn responded “But we brought some friends.”

Hunter raised an eyebrow but went along with it.

Faybelle ran past the pair, shoving a tray of party food into Hunter’s hands “Here you go. I’m off to the carousel.”

She sprinted off, her dress flying behind her.

Hunter looked surprised but he shrugged making Ashlynn laugh.

Briar turned back to the carousel where Faybelle was shouting with joy - she was having the time of her life. Her out of character excitement made Briar smirk and roll her eyes.

Cute.She thought to herself.

It took Briar a moment to register the thought that just crossed her mind and when it finally clicked with her she felt her face heat up.

What the hex was that?  

Her heart fluttered. Did she think Faybelle was… cute?

Briar flushed even more than she thought was possible. She felt warm - she needed to cool down.

She turned away from the direction of the fairy and headed over to get a cold drink.

This was going to be a long night

~

By the time the party had ended - Briar felt exhausted, what with all the chatting and partying and this strange new flustered feeling felt whenever a certain dark fairy caught her eye. 

It was stupid. She told herself. Just a stupid feeling that would go away eventually.

The brunette tiredly made her way back to the main school, yawning. As she passed the hall , she couldn’t help but glance in.

There, was Faybelle, alone, tidying up the last evidence of the party using her magic.

Briar hesitated before walking, ignoring the explosion on butterflies in her stomach “Need a hand?”

The fairy looked over at the princess, shrugging “Sure.”

“What happened to all of your little fairy helpers?” Briar questioned whilst she gathered up some rubbish people had tossed on the ground.

“They left with the other party and I don’t think they’ll be back here anytime soon,” she growled “Traitors.”

There was silence for a while as the pair worked until finally they stood and admired their work.

“Hexellent,” Faybellle put her hands on her hips “It’s almost as though we weren’t even here.”

Then the fairy gathered up the final remaining table decorations, offering one to Briar “Mini statue of me? I’ve got loads of them - they’re just going in the bin otherwise.”

Briar made a face , amused slightly “ I’m good.”

There was moment of quiet again before Faybelle snapped them out of it.

“Um your makeups smudged.” 

Briar’s hand immediately went to her face to fix it.

Faybelle stepped forward “It’s your lipstick.”

“Oh ,” Briar attempted to rub at the corners of her lips to get it off.

“No, it’s - let me get it,” she reached forward to wipe away the lipstick.

The pair were face to face , close now and Briar felt her lungs tighten , her breath catching in her chest. She could hear Faybelle’s quick breathing and her own heart racing in her chest.

Their eyes locked for a moment - Faybelle’s cloudy grey ones and Briar’s deep, soft brown ones.

Subconsciously, Briar glanced down at the fairy’s lips.

Faybelle saw and she took a sharp breath “Can I …kiss you?” barely a whisper but four words Briar never knew she longed to hear.

She nodded and Faybelle drew closer , lingering near her lips.

Then in barely a split second, she closed the distance between them, pressing her lips against the brunettte’s. Briar reached out to cup the fairy’s head in her hands.

Faybelle’s lips were surprisingly tender and she tasted of the punch they had been serving at the party. The kiss was messy and imperfect, lips grazing each other as they kissed, mixed with emotion - past animosity, nerves and fears , passion.

It was a while before the pair actually parted. There was a moment of awkward silence whist the pair stood opposite each other, still close.

“Yeah uh - I think it’s fine now.” Faybelle coughed .

Oh yeah. The lipstick.

“Um yeah. Thanks.” Briar stammered rubbing her arm.

Faybelle took a step away “I’m probably going to … go now.”

Briar nodded “Yeah. Me too.”

Silence again.

Chapter Text

It felt like eternity before Faybelle finally spoke again “Uh. Night then.”

“Goodnight.” 

Then without another word, Faybelle disappeared off to her dorm leaving Briar stood there dumbfounded. 

She hugged herself, face a deep red before she mustered up the courage to leave the hall.

She would only have to hope that Ashlynn wouldn’t notice her blush when she returned to the dorm.

~ 

When she arrived, Ashlynn glanced up at her - it was late, however the strawberry blonde knew Briar had a history of late night partying.

Ashlynn was sat curled up in her bed, scrolling through her mirror phone, her hair in curlers.

She put her mirror phone down ,looking up at the brunette “We didn’t see you leave the party - you okay Bri?”

“Oh. Yeah- I’m fine. I just went out to get some space,” Briar told her , giving her a reassuring smile.

Ashlynn returned it before focusing back on what she was doing. The other princess turned and made her way to the bathroom. 

 “Oh, and Briar ,” Ashlynn informed the girl “Your lipstick’s smudged.”

~

Faybelle felt like she might just explode.

What just happened?

What did she do just do???!!!

Ever since she was little, Faybelle had been taught about her fairytale - how the dark fairy curses the beautiful princess to a hundred years of sleep. 

On not a single page did it say anything about the dark fairy kissing the princess.

What was wrong with her?!?!

Eventually, she reached her dorm and luckily for her, Bunny was sound asleep in her own bed so she wouldn’t see the dark fairy in her flustered state.

Faybelle went to take her make up off , untying her high ponytail to let her hair hang around her shoulders. 

The dark fairy sighed, rubbing her temple. 

This was stupid. She’s just made a mistake - got caught up in the heat of the moment.

I mean, what fairy can resist a pretty girl right?

But a tiny part of her mind thought otherwise. But  this isn’t just a pretty girl. This is Briar Beauty for hex sake. The girl who, up until tonight you’ve sworn to curse. The girl your supposed to be enemies with.

Faybelle shrugged those thoughts away. They’re friends. This was just a mistake.

Chapter Text

That night, after lots of tossing and turning, Faybelle eventually was able to rest.

Unlike other nights, Faybelle’s sleep wasn’t dreamless. Visions of a certain princess crossed her mind.

The dreams had a certain pink haze to them and dream Briar didn’t do much aside from cast the occasional smile at her. This of course made dream Faybelle’s heart flutter like it was full of butterflies on acid. Even in this stupid dream she was full of … ugh… feelings.

It played out like this for a while until the dark fairy eventually slipped into a deeper sleep devoid of dreams.

~ The Next Day

For the first time in her life, Faybelle actually overslept. 

Usually she woke up bright and early for cheer practice - she prided herself in her organisation - but today she had somehow slept straight through her alarm.

“Hex,” Faybelle grumbled when she finally dragged herself out of bed - she was late, very late.

Hastily, she slipped on her cheer uniform and slung on her varsity jacket over it. Then, using her magic she hurriedly applied her makeup and tied up her silvery blonde hair in a quick high ponytail.

Faybelle grabbed her bag and glanced over at her reflection in the mirror, sighing when she noticed the hair that stuck out of her ponytail. It would have to do.

By the time she reached the bleachers, everyone else in the cheerhexing squad had already gathered and was waiting for her. It was busy here, all sorts of athletes preparing for their next match or competition. Runners stretched, people practiced their throws for bookball and even the hextreme croquet team were there practicing their shots.

She threw down her bag “Right everyone, let’s start.”

There were some looks of confusion and curiosity amongst the squad but no one dared mension Faybelle’s tardiness.

There was a mischievous laugh from the bleachers which caught the dark fairy’s attention.

Kitty Cheshire.  

The child of the Cheshire Cat was stretched out on the bench lazily, observing them from afar. She came here to watch them often, claiming to be here to cause mischief and chaos - however Faybelle suspected she just came to watch Lizzie Hearts play.

“Gosh,”She spoke with a sickly sweet tone “You’re a mess Faybelleeee.” She purred drawing out the fairy’s name.

She tutted “Are you sure you’re still up to cheer captain?

Faybelle rolled her eyes, she had tried her best to ignore her but it was of no use “Shut it furball.” 

Kitty giggled, smile widening before she disappeared.

Faybelle turned back to the squad, scowling slightly. 

A few fairies were staring at her and she hissed at them confrontingly “What?”

They jumped slightly, straightening themselves and frantically got back into position.

~

It wasn’t like Briar not to be able to sleep - it was part of her destiny after all.

However, Briar found herself lying awake, memories from what had happened playing repeatedly in her mind.

By morning , she was exhaused - dark bags deepening under her eyes. 

Ashlynn cast her a concerned look “Are you okay Briar? You seem… off.”

Briar nodded forcing a smile “I’m fine. Just can’t sleep. One too many energy drinks at the party , I guess.” She faked a laugh.

Ashlynn wasn’t buying it and she folded her arms, unconvinced.

Before she could speak Briar grabbed her arm and dragged her out the dorm, cutting her off “Come on Ash! We’ve got crowncalus now. Don’t want to be late do we?”

Ignoring her protests, Briar dragged her friend all the way to the classroom, pushing her inside.

“Briar!” She yelled “We’re 10 minutes early for Grimm’s sake!! What is up with you?”

Briar laughed nervously “Nothing” she told the strawberry blonde. 

I just wanted to stop with that conversation . Briar thought to herself.

Ashlynn narrowed her eyes suspiciously and went over to her seat to sit down.

After a while, students began to fill the classroom and Briar began to find herself dozing off. 

She shook herself as more and more people arrived. 

Then, Briar noticed someone enter the room - the last person she’d want to see - Faybelle.

This of course jolted her back awake, making her almost fall from her seat. 

Hex - she’d forgotten they had this class together. 

Luckily for her, Faybelle didn’t notice and joined Duchess in her seat, not even acknowledging the brunette. The fairy’s hair was messy from her practice and her varsity jacked was slung around her shoulder.

Briar covered her flushed face with her hand, turning away from the other girl. 

What she didn’t notice was when she had looked away, Faybelle glanced over at her .

The dark fairy frowned. She could barely even look at me. She grimaced.Hexellent. This was going to very awkward.

Chapter Text

Briar had almost managed to successfully make it through an entire day avoiding Ashlynn’s questioning, before she returned to the dorm. 

She flopped on her bed, groaning and covering her face with her hands. Her head had been hurting all day and she was surprised she hadn’t passed out from exhaustion yet. 

The brunette stared up at the ceiling and soon enough felt herself drifting asleep. 

~ 

Briar had dreamt of Faybelle in the past. Nothing much - she’d often be bothering her or making a comment that would make Briar want to roll her eyes with exasperation. She’d usually just be annoying - a reflection of what Briar had thought of her.

But this time the dream was different. She was in the tower room by the spindle and the feeling of entrancement that came with the curse returned. She felt herself be drawn towards the delicate but deadly needle unable to stop herself. 

Luckily, a familiar dark fairy stopped her before she could get any closer and took her hands in her own.

Huh. Deja-vu.

Faybelle looked down at the princess - her eyes were strikingly grey in this light but her gaze was soft.

Suddenly, Briar felt as though she was no longer entranced by the spindle but the fairy that stood before her.

A smile played on dream Faybelle’s lips and with a swift cast of a spell the spindle disappeared. Briar drew closer to the other girl, heart racing.

The pair’s faces where barely an inch apart from each other now - it would only take one step closer to close the distance between them.

Then the dream Faybelle whispered softly “Do you like me?”

It was a question she would never be able to give dream Faybelle the answer to as she was jolted awake by voices in her room.

Briar sat up, rubbing her eyes groggily.

“She’s awake!” a voice said happily.

Briar look around. There sat Apple, perched on Ashlynn’s bed, hands intertwined with Darling’s. Ashlynn sat beside the couple, leant up against the headboard of her bed, a textbook and highlighter in hand whilst Maddie and Raven had chosen to sit on the floor surrounded by books.

The brunette blinked slowly, taking in her surroundings.

“Oh Grimm,” Briar realised “Did we plan a study party tonight and I forgot?”

They had planned many of these ‘study parties’ over the course of the year - although now they’d mostly turned into study sleepovers, with the girls often sleeping over in Ashlynn and Briar’s dorm. It wasn’t allowed and took quite a lot of convincing to get Apple to break the rules. However, it was worth it and often ended up being the best nights together.

Maddie took this as an opportunity to leap onto Briar’s bed, almost launching the girl into the air.

“Yep, she giggled. The daughter of the mad hatter was already in her cosy clothes, ready for bed.

“It’s almost 9pm,” Raven explained with amusement “We were beginning to think you’d passed out.”

Briar rubbed the back of her neck awkwardly “Sorry. I’d forgotten completely.”

Raven shrugged “It’s fine. You looked tired today anyway.”

Briar winced, was it that noticeable that she was such a mess today?

“You were deep in sleep Bri,” Apple told her “You looked very… content.”

Everyone else nodded in agreement.

“I think I needed the rest,” Briar explained “ I’ve had quite the past few days.”

“We’ve heard,” Apple informed the brunette “Ashlynn’s been worried about you all night.”

Ashlynn frowned at Apple for being exposed but eventually sighed giving in “It’s true Briar. I am worried - you’ve been in a real … fairy funk recently. I don’t know what to do.”

There was silence and Briar looked down guiltily. She should’ve told her friends what was going on.

Apple piped in “Is it about a … boy?”

Darling nudged her giving her a look.

“I mean … or girl?” 

Darling facepalmed.

Briar winced again , cheeks flushed.

Apple gasped, her face lighting up “Oh my Grimm. It is.”

Briar’s blush deepened “It may or may not be about that. Yeah…”

Apple leapt up towards Briar, almost knocking her over as she rushed to give the other princess a hug “That’s amazing? Is she your girlfriend?”

All of the girls rushed to sit beside Briar, smiles wide.

“Sooo,” Apple asked “Who is it?”

Darling added for her “No pressure though Briar. Take your time.”

“Well…”Briar paused “She’s… it’s difficult to explain.”

There was more quiet before Raven spoke “Is it Faybelle?”

The silence said everything. You could cut the atmosphere with a knife.

The look of shock upon the girls faces made Briar want to find the nearest hole and curl up in it for eternity. Sleeping for 100 years didn’t sound so bad now after that truth bomb had been dropped. Even Maddie looked shocked and that was really saying something.

Apple gawked at her before finally letting out a squeak “Really?”

Briar put her head in her hands before groaning “ I know.”

“It was the party,” Briar elaborated “We were alone and she was being well …Faybelle.”She sighed slightly, hating the fact that remembering it made her heart bleed “And then we kinda… maybe.. kissed?”

Raven grinned giving Briar’s shoulder a playful nudge “I knew it. Good for you though.” 

Briar smiled at her awkwardly.

“Are you together then?” Ashlynn questioned her, a slight smile creeping onto her face.

Maddie cut in zealously “Are you going to get married? Have half-fairy babies?”

Briar almost chocked on thin air “What? How- I ,” she spluttered and everyone giggled, even Apple who was still seemingly in a state of shock.

“I mean,” Briar looked away “It’s complicated.”

Ashlynn’s smile faltered “What ?”

“Well… after that it was very…awkward. We didn’t say anything to each other. We just … parted ways.”

Ashlynn gave the brunette a hopeless look “Briar you gay disaster.”

“Even I must admit Briar that is rather stupid of you,” Apple pipped in “And I’m still shocked, for the record.”

“Yeah. That’s a lot coming from the official princess of Lesbian disasters over here,” Darling added earning her a indignant shove from her girlfriend.

“I feel like she’s… avoiding me?” Briar confessed.

“But are you avoiding her?” Raven raised an eyebrow.

Briar looked down defeated “Well… yes.”

Briar groaned again“It’s just all these feelings are fairly new - I’ve never had a crush like this! I mean why does my heart do backflips whenever she laughs and when she does that stupid little wing flutter and when she-“ 

Ashlynn put her hands up “Woah girl. You’ve got it bad.”

Briar looked up at her “I know. It’s so stupid. It’s FAYBELLE for Grimm’s sake. She’s probably not even thinking about me right now - she probably isn’t losing sleep over this , having dreams about me-“

“Wait-“ It was Darling who spoke this time “You’re having dreams about Faybelle.” She raised her eyebrows slightly “What kind of dreams?”

Briar felt her face turn the same shade as the dress Apple wears “No. Not like that - I -“

The others burst out laughing aside from Apple who looked bewildered “I don’t get it.”

Darling hugged her from the side planting a kiss on the top of her head “Stay innocent Applepie, stay innocent.”

Briar tried to explain herself “In the dream, she saved me from the spindle like the vision from the castle, then we almost kissed,” she added shooting a look specifically at Darling “Nothing else.” 

Ashlynn paused thoughtfully “Maybe that means she’s dreaming about you too?”

Briar looked at the strawberry blonde, confused “You shared that vision at the castle - maybe your sharing dreams now.” She explained.

Briar thought for a moment “I don’t know. It’s all just … a lot.”

Ashlynn gave her a sympathetic look “I understand. It can be difficult to be in love with someone you’re not supposed to be Bri. It was difficult for Hunter and I.”

Apple smile reassuringly too “It was the same for me and Darling,” she leant on her girlfriend’s shoulder affectionately “But it’s worth it to just tell her how how you feel.”

Briar hugged herself on the bed “Thanks girls. I’ll try to speak to her tomorrow.”

Maddie jumped in to hug the brunette before the others joined in giving Briar a group hug.

~

Before everyone went to sleep, Apple pulled Briar aside “Hey, I’m sorry about my reaction when you told us about Faybelle - it was a bit of an overreaction. “ she looked guilty “I just want to say I will support you.”

Briar smiled, shrugging “It’s okay Apple,” she laughed slightly “You took it better than I thought you would. Thanks though.”

The brunette reached out and gave the blonde a grateful hug. 

When they pulled away Apple put her hands on her hips “Gosh. Now I’ve got to decide whether I want to wear blue or pink to your wedding.”

“Apple!” Briar protested as the other princess laughed and went to settle to in her sleeping bag beside her girlfriend.

“Goodnight to you too!” She called over to Briar and Briar got herself into her own bed. 

“Goodnight.” She called back, rolling her eyes.

Once she got comfortable, Briar found herself staring back up at the ceiling and wondering about Faybelle. Maybe she wouldn’t mind dreaming about her so much anymore.

She closed her eyes and let herself slip into her dreams.

Chapter Text

Even during lunch in the castleteria, Faybelle couldn’t escape her problems.

And by problems, she meant Duchess Swan. 

The girl suspected something was up the moment she arrived (slightly late) to their table after class. She frowned at the dark fairy giving her a look which Faybelle ignored.

The others at the table greeted her - Ramona Badwolf was sat beside Sparrow Hood who was lazily strumming his guitar. Next to Duchess sat Poppy O’Hair who was quite a contrast to the others in the group - too nice really. However, Faybelle didn’t mind her , she was cool once you got to know her. 

Duchess had invited the roybel to sit with them one day and she’d been with their friend group ever since.

“How are you doing Faybelle?” She asked and the fairy took a seat next to her, sighing.

“Bad,” She grimaced “I overslept- can you believe it? I was late to cheerhexing.” Faybelle groaned.

“We heard from Duchess,” Ramona told her - she was playing with the vegetables on the side of her plate with her fork. Occasionally, she’d flick a piece of carrot or broccoli at Cerise Hood who would glare at her indignantly.

Duchess crossed her arms “You’re a mess, today.”

Faybelle scowled - it was true, but why did people have to keep pointing it out?

She muttered under her breath “Thanks.”

Duchess ignored this “Something is going on with you,” she narrowed her eyes “I know it.”

“There is nothing ‘going on’ Duchess,” the dark fairy snapped back.

The royal frowned “Really? Then why were you acting so strange in Crowncalus , huh? Did something happen at the party your not telling us?” Duchess interrogated her, voice cracking slightly.

Faybelle had had enough “Just leave me alone Duchess! Hex, just mind your own buisiness!!!” She slammed her food tray down on the table , a little harder than intended.

At the sound of Faybelle’s bellowing shouts, the Castleteria grew silent. Glancing around, Faybelle saw some people staring at them,  whispering things to one another.

Honestly, Faybelle couldn’t care about what they thought, however if Briar was amongst the crowd, she didn’t want to the princess seeing her in such a state.

Duchess had chosen to remain silent now now and the dark fairy took the initiative to leave, storming off.

~

Faybelle spent the rest of lunch alone at the bleachers - at least here it was quiet, away from Duchess’s questions and curious stares from nosey onlookers. 

She hadn’t brought her lunch along with her so she was left hungry and bored, scrolling through her mirror phone.

Then, some people approached her making her look up. It was Poppy, Sparrow and Ramona.

Great, Faybelle thought to herself.

Poppy spoke up “We brought you some food.” She held up a bag and the dark fairy hesitated before taking it from her.

“Thanks,” she mumbled quietly.

The group sat next to her - no one dared to speak - the only noise that was heard was Sparrow gently strumming his guitar.

Faybelle reached into the bag, taking a bite of the beef sandwich which Ramona must’ve chosen for her.

“Duchess means well,” Poppy started, a light flush on her face “She’s just worried about you and has well… her own way of showing it.”

Faybelle sighed “I know,” she paused grimacing “And I hate that she’s hexing right.”

The trio exchanged glances between them.

“What do you mean ?” Ramona asked, a confused look on her face.

“Something did happen at the party,”Faybelle explained “There was a … mistake made.”

The three of them looked at her eyes wide, Sparrow had even stopped strumming his guitar.

“A royally big mistake,” the dark fairy continued “I kissed Briar.” She blurted out.

“Is that all?” Ramona looked relieved , barking out a laugh “I’d thought you’d made Headmaster Grimm explode or something.” She looked considerate for a moment “Hex, maybe that wouldn’t be such a hinderance.”

Poppy gave the fairy a warm smile “Is that… not a good thing?”

Faybelle looked surprised “You guys are okay with this? I kissed the princess who I’ve been destined to curse my whole life and that’s your reaction?”

Sparrow played a riff on his guitar, singing loudly “You kissed the girl your meant to curse, yeah!!!!”

Ramona almost shoved him off the bleachers.

Th daughter of the Big Bad Wolf shrugged “What makes you think we’ll care? I’m dating a princess - Justine - there’s nothing in my destiny about that.”

Faybelle was stunned for a moment “Really?”

Ramona nodded “Yep.”

“I don’t even have a destiny ,” Poppy joined in “Trust me, we are the last people to mind.”

“I just thought…” Faybelle’s voice trailed off “ I’m not even sure I like her. I think it was just a mix up of emotions.”

“We’re not … in love or anything.” The fairy added feeling a strange, burning feeling in her chest.

Poppy looked at her sympathetically “Maybe just talk to her, to start with. About what happened.”

Ramona agreed “Yeah. Then you can make out to your heart’s content. Worked for me.”

Poppy pulled a face at Ramona who laughed. Faybelle at this point had turned bright red.

She groaned “Okay, okay - I’ll talk to her. Thanks, guys.”

Ramona grinned “You love us really.”

Faybelle rolled her eyes but couldn’t help but crack a smile “Screw you.”

They all laughed and for once the dark fairy was grateful she had them.

“Could you do me a favour though ,” Faybelle added “And not tell Duchess about this just yet? I want to speak to her myself. I’m not sure how she’ll handle it.”

Poppy nodded “That’s fine. We’ll be there for you though - no matter what.”

Faybelle screwed up her nose, sticking out her tongue at the roybel jokingly  “Eugh. You’re so soppy Poppy O’Hair - all of you are.” 

Poppy laughed “Careful , I’ve got Muse-ic next with Briar - don’t want me telling her anything about how red you go whenever you talk about her. 

“You wouldn’t dare,” Somehow, Faybelle’s cheeks had darkened in colour “I am not blushing because of Briar - I don’t even like her.”

The roybel put her hands up defensively “Okay. You don’t like her. Got it.”

~ 

For the rest of the day and the day after that, Faybelle felt significantly lighter. She was still a mess in many ways but at least she felt a bit better. 

When she was preparing for her period two lesson the next day, a message popped up from an unknown number.The fairy picked it up, clicking on the hext.

Unknown Number : Hey, it’s Briar. Poppy gave me ur number.

Unknown Number : Do u think we could meet up tomorrow at the hocus latte or something for coffee?

Unknown Number: just to talk or something

Unknown Number: if that’s okay with u :)

Faybelle nearly threw her phone across the room in pure shock. 

Briar wanted to meet up with her? To talk? Like a date- ?

She shook herself No not a date. That’s just stupid. You don’t like her and she doesn’t like you.

Ignoring her nerves she quickly sent a hext back.

Faybelle Thorn : sounds good. what time?

Faybelle let out a breath she didn’t know she’d been holding. Why was that so difficult?

The fairy put her mirror phone away and continued to make her way to her Genral Villianly class.

Grimm knows what she’d do to Holly O’Hair when she caught her.

Chapter Text

The next day, Faybelle made sure to arrive early to the Hocus Latte, ordering an iced latte for herself and a hot chocolate with extra cream for Briar.

When the drinks arrived, she frowned down at the frothy, sweet beverage she’d ordered for the other girl. She was a dark fairy and she’d just ordered the sweetest drink on the menu for her ex-enemy. 

It was almost … nice of her.

Faybelle pushed those thoughts away, sipping her own drink. 

Eventually, the brunette arrived looking pleasantly surprised when she saw Faybelle at the table “You’re early,” she observed.

Briar smiled, eyes glinting slightly  “And you bought me a hot chocolate!” She cupped the mug in her hands gently taking a sip “Thanks.”

Faybelle nodded along not saying anything for a while. The awkward silence felt torturous.

“So…” she started reluctantly, feeling as though she knew how Briar would answer to the question she was about to ask “You wanted to talk about something, Beauty?”

“Uh yeah!” The princess didn’t look at Faybelle when she spoke, playing with her hands anxiously “It’s about the party…”

Here it comes, the fairy thought to herself.

Briar laughed nervously “Well …it’s about after the party…when we…” Faybelle braced herself “Kissed.”

“Yeah…” Faybelle took a sharp intake of breath, praying that her face wasn’t flushed “That…”

Briar had finally mustered up the courage to look at Faybelle, her brown eyes soft but serious “What…are we?”

Faybelle paused “We’re friends right?”

A look crossed Briar’s face which she couldn’t read. Disappointment? No. Surely not.

“Yeah,” Briar forced a smile “Friends,” she drew out the last few syllables, not quite liking the sound of it “It was just an accident.”

There was silence before the brunette coughed “Do you wanna get out of here? Maybe go somewhere else a bit less …”

“Awkward?” The Faybelle answered , a relieved smile forming on her face - she was glad to change the subject.

Briar couldn’t help but smile too “Yep,” she grabbed Faybelle’s hand excitedly “Ooo we could go dragon riding or ooo bungee jumping!”

Faybelle gave her a look. “Orrr we could go to that new roller skating rink, together - as uh friends of course! I haven’t been there yet and I’ve just been dying to try it!” Briar added.

Faybelle shrugged, smirking “If you insist, Beauty.” She let the other girl take her hand and lead her outside. 

Before they got much further Briar stopped. She pulled out her phone and checked the time, frowning “We’re too late. By the time we get there, the rink will probably be closed.”

Faybelle put her hands on her hips “That’s not a problem,toots,” she fluttered her wings, grinning so you could see her canine’s glinting in the sunlight “In case you’ve forgotten, I am a dark fairy.”

Briar was temporarily confused “Yeah….?”

Faybelle rolled her eyes, grinning mischievously “I can fly us there !”

“Really?” Briar looked skeptical “Have you done that before?”

The fairy shrugged “Nope, but I am the most powerful fairy in the land,” this time it was Briar who rolled her eyes “I’m pretty sure I can handle it.”

“Hop on, Beauty,” Faybelle held out an arm and Briar took hold, letting the other girl carry her bridal style.

Faybelle wobbled at first (Briar was a lot taller and heavier than Faybelle was) however the fairy eventually steadied herself - the many years of cheer practice helping her regain balance.

“Ready?” Faybelle looked down at the girl in her arms who nodded, tightening her grip around Faybelle.

Then, when fairy took off into the sky, Briar yelped,startled at the sudden speed and accidentally buried her face into the side of Faybelle’s neck.

The fairy wheezed slightly “Um…Beauty, could you not -“

Briar pulled away, loosening her grip “Sorry.” Her faced reddened at the closeness and the fact she could smell the other girl’s perfume that lingered on her varsity jacket, making her heart do summersaults.

Eventually, the brunette relaxed, peering over Faybelle’s shoulder at the shops, that were getting smaller and smaller below them. 

The wind rushing past her, combined with the adrenaline of flying alongside Faybelle felt like nothing else she’d ever experienced.

Briar threw her head back, shouting with joy , a huge grin on her face. It as though they were the only two people in the world and nothing else mattered.

 A smile lit up Faybelle’s face too and Briar couldn’t help but be mesmerised.

Ashlynn’s words from the other night came to mind. Woah, girl. You’ve got it bad.

And in that moment she felt breathless, as realisation filled her body. 

She’d fallen for Faybelle.

Chapter Text

She was in love with Faybelle Thorn , the most annoying yet sharply stunning dark fairy she’d ever met. The girl who’d always been chaotically rivalrous towards Briar but still had a softer side that would occasionally shine through, whether Faybelle admitted to it or not.

The same fairy who had just admitted to only seeing her as a friend.

Suddenly, Briar choked on air, realising she had been holding her breath that entire time.

“You good?” Faybelle looked down at the brunette in her arms “Don’t want you dying just yet - we’re here.”

“Yep,” Briar breathed trying to contain the aching feeling in her chest “ I’m fine.”

Soon enough, Faybelle touched down on the ground, letting Briar down from her arms. 

The fairy’s wings fluttered defiantly and she looked very pleased with herself “I told you I could handle it.” 

Briar laughed, amused “You should start charging people,” she said sarcastically.

Faybelle grinned playfully up at the brunette with her big, grey eyes “Great idea - but for you, Beauty, it’s free.”

Briar pursed her lips, face reddening - she ignored this sensation hooking her arm around Faybelle’s “C‘mon, let’s go.”

The pair walked into the roller skating rink and were greeted by a bored looking employee. He looked them up and down and raised an eyebrow - perhaps he knew who they were - but didn’t say anything against it. 

“Can we get two pairs of skates, please,” Briar asked excitedly whilst handing over some money and the employee obliged, giving them the skates.

The two of them went over to a bench to put them on.

Faybelle tied the laces of her own pink skates “Not really my colour,” she added.

“I think it suites you,” Briar looked over to the fairy who raised her eyebrows.

The pair sat in an awkward silence before they made their way onto the rink using the railing to haul themself over there. 

Briar wobbled at first but soon enough got the hang of it managing to maintain her balance and a steady speed. 

Faybelle however did not get the hang of roller skating so quickly. She clung to the side, slipping over herself like a newborn unicorn. 

Briar couldn’t help but giggle as the fairy almost crashed into a passing couple “I thought the wings would be an advantage,” she skated over to her holding out an arm for her to take.

Reluctantly, Faybelle accepted it , scowling “Ha ha, very funny Beauty,” the brunette led her away from the side, steadying the other girl “These wings are meant for flying not skating.”

The pair skated like this for a while, Briar laughing at Faybelle’s clumsiness as she looked flustered and blushed an angry shade of pink. 

Eventually, Faybelle felt steady enough to skate alone, however soon enough the fairy wobbled over again colliding with Briar in a tangle of arms and legs. The pair hit the ground with a thud next to each other and this time it was Faybelle who burst out laughing.

It was a genuine laugh - not snarky or sarcastic  - and it made Briar’s heart skip a beat. It was almost enough to make her forget about the previous conversation in the Hocus Latte. 

However, Briar couldn’t help but join in and the pair laid on the floor for some time before Faybelle turned to her grinning “We should probably get up,” her eyes glinted as she faced the other girl “Before they kick us out of here.” 

A smile lingered on Briar’s lips as she looked at the fairy “We probably should.” She couldn’t help but be distracted by Faybelle’s face so close to hers and the way she had looked at her.

She sat up abruptly, needing to stop staring at the other girl before she went crazy. As much as Briar wanted to kiss her,  and as much as her heart bled, she knew she had respect her boundaries - Faybelle didn’t want Briar in the same way she wanted Faybelle.

 It was just the way things were. 

No amount of longing would change that.

Chapter Text

Faybelle made her way back to her dorm - what had been hours felt like seconds with Briar as they messed around and laughed at the skating rink - it was beginning to get dark.

Briar had quickly smiled and waved her goodbye as they departed - hurrying off to get back to her own dorm and see Ashlynn.

The walk to Faybelle’s dorm was longer than Briar’s and as she finally arrived at the door she hesitated as she reached out for the handle.

She hadn’t spoken to Duchess in a while and the fact she hadn’t seen her friend at all for the past few days when they’d usually be together in class made it feel as though she was being avoided.

Briar being with Ashlynn had reminded the fairy of her own friend who she had argued with the last time she’d seen her.

Faybelle winced. Duchess had only been concerned - she just had her own way of showing it. And Faybelle had snapped at her.

She groaned as she turned on her heels. 

Stupid guilt. Stupid hexing friendship making her feel things.  

Argh - Briar and her fluffy,princessy ways were rubbing off on her ,she was sure of it.

After a few additional minutes, she arrived at Duchess’s dorm room, before rapping her knuckle sharply on the door.

The posh accented voice of Lizzie Hearts came from the other side “Coming! One second!”

There was a quick click and the door slipped open as Lizzie peaked her head around “Oh! Faybelle! Hello!”

“Hey,” Faybelle tilted her head to look into the room “Is Duchess here?”

Lizzie looked back for moment before rolling her eyes “Yes she’s definitely here, despite what she is signalling for me to say. You can come in”

An audible groan could be heard as Lizzie opened the door so Faybelle could step inside.

Duchess was very much there, sat pouting on her bed, arms crossed and head turned away from the fairy stubbornly. 

Lizzie looked between them “I’m going to see Kitty. You two obviously need to talk and get this ridiculous little spat over with,” she turned to Duchess in particular “Future Queen’s orders.”

She gave Duchess a very stern look before, slipping away and leaving the two of them alone.

Duchess didn’t say anything aside from an annoyed honk.

Faybelle groaned again “Look, Duchess - I’m sorry.”

That caught the royal by surprise as she turned to actually look at the fairy, eyes widening.

“You’re actually apologising for something?” Her voice cracked “That’s unlike you.”

“I know,” Faybelle laughed dryly “Out of character isn’t it?” She continued “I am sorry though Duchess … for lashing out at lunch about the whole acting strangely thing.” Faybelle rubbed her temple as she rambled “I know you were just worried and stuff and I shouldn’t have done it but I was just … my mind was just overwhelmed about the party and everything that happened and -“

Duchess cut her off “I am sorry too.” She said quickly with embarrassment “I shouldn’t have pushed it.”

Faybelle looked at her, surprised at her remorse.

Seeing her face, Duchess rubbed the back of her neck looking away “I know I have a tendency to be… uhhh rather intrusive.” She confessed.

“So… uhm… sorry,” she said in a small voice.

Faybelle was quiet for a moment before a grin spread across her face “Thanks Duchie.”

“Don’t get used to it,” Duchess huffed, brushing it off before returning to her standoffish stance.

Faybelle laughed, it was her turn to be honest now “You were right though,” this caught Duchesses attention again and she turned back to the fairy an eyebrow raised “Something did happen at the party.”

It was almost as though Duchess couldn’t help herself “Aha! I knew it.”

Faybelle rolled her eyes “Yeah, yeah. You’re a genius - whatever.”

“Oh shush,” Duchess grumbled.

Faybelle ignored her “I’ll tell you what happened but you have to promise you won’t get angry, okay?”

Duchess pursed her lips “Fine.”

The dark fairy inhaled deeply “I kissed Briar Beauty.”

Duchess blinked at her.

Her shoulders slumped back in disappointment “Really? That it?”

Faybelle gave her a bewildered look - why does no one seem surprised about this?

“I thought you two were already dating,” Duchess told her, unbothered.

Faybelle could feel her face burning “…. What?”

“Or at least … I’d don’t know -  friends with benefits?” 

Faybelle put her hands up defensively “Woah, woah, woah - we are not dating. I don’t even like her! And friends with benefits …? Duchess what the hell?”

Duchess shrugged “What the hex was going on before then?”

“Nothing!” Faybelle yelled, now certain her face was entirely flushed.

“Hmph,” Duchess responded, sceptical.

“If you thought we were dating before why didn’t you say anything?” Faybelle questioned.

Duchess checked her nails aloofly “I considered revealing it to the whole school for generally villainy but I couldn’t be bothered and you’d be seriously pissed.”

“How kind of you.”

She gave Faybelle a conniving smirk “Spreading a rumour that Briar and Hopper were dating - now that’s be proper villainy.”

“Don’t do that,” Faybelle frowned “You’re not angry at all?”

“Nope,” Duchess said simply “Why would I care? A royal and a rebel dating is old news.”

“We’re not dating,” Faybelle repeated “And it’s different - she’s the princess of my story.”

Duchess paused “Seems like the only person who’s hung up about that is you, Faybelle.”

Faybelle didn’t say anything aside from mutter “I’m - we’re… we’re not dating.”

Duchess raised her eyebrows again “Hm. Okay.”

There was silence “So you really don’t care about royals and rebels being together ?” Faybelle asked again.

“No,” Duchess reminded her “Again - it’s old news.”

A sly smile snuck onto Faybelle’s face “Really? Is it not because of a certain roybel?” She sung the last word teasingly and Duchess’s face snapped around.

She clutched her non-existent pearls “Excuse me?” She spluttered “ I don’t know what you mean.”

Faybelle leant her head in her hands grinning, she had a feeling that Duchess knew exactly what she was talking about, “It’s very rare you invite anyone to sit with us Duchie ~. Let alone someone as sweet as Poppy O’Hair ~.”

“It’s nothing.” Duchess denied profusely.

“But you like her, huh?” Faybelle smiled.

“Of course,” Duchess growled through gritted teeth “Why else would I ask her to sit with us? She’s cool - I approve of her.”

“And you think she’s pretty?” Faybelle asked.

Duchess sighed defeated “Yes,she is very pretty but that doesn’t mean I like, like her Faybelle.Lots of girls are pretty.”

Faybelle put her hands up defensively “Okay. Come to me if you need any help asking her out though - I’d be a great wingman,” she fluttered her wings mischievously “Pun entirely intended.”

The royal rolled her eyes “Sort your own sapphic romance out first, for hex sake” she muttered under her breath.

“What was that Duchie?” Faybelle questioned playfully, then nudged her friends arm “Good to see everything’s back to normal between us,” she joked.

“Speaking of lesbian romances,” Faybelle batted her eyelashes (very much on purpose) at Duchess who gave her a gesture that certainly wasn’t fairytale friendly “What’s going on with Lizzie and Kitty?”

Duchess seemed glad to change the subject “I know right? You already know I’ve asked her about it, but she didn’t tell me anything,” she complained.

“I wonder why,” this earned the fairy a shove from Duchess.

“I stopped asking her,” she added “I gave up after the first few attempts.”

“It’s so obvious,” Faybelle went to sit next to her on the bed.

The royal nodded in agreement “It really is.”

She paused then looked at Faybelle in object horror “Oh my Grimm - am I like that with Poppy?” She put her head in her hands, flopping backwards on the bed.

“Wellllll…” Faybelle made a face “Kinda.”

Duchess groaned another honk escaping her mouth.

Chuckling, Faybelle flopped down to join her “It’s amusing to watch you gay panic in real time.”

“It’s not gay panic-“ Duchess tried to defend herself “Gay panic is you with Briar-“

“Woah - not dating remember,” Faybelle emphasised “I don’t like her like that Duchie.” Duchess turned to look at her, disappointment written on her face.

“You kissed her Faybelle…” Duchess elaborated “You might not be dating but there’s certainly more to that then being just friends.”

The fairy didn’t say anything, staring up at the ceiling of Duchess’ dorm room.

Instead she just thought about what had happened - the kiss, the way Briar had looked upset when she told her they were just friends, her carrying Briar through the sky bridal style through the sky, her laugh-

Faybelle shook herself - she’d avoided affection for so long - it was her destiny to be the dark fairy, she didn’t have time for romance. 

But now, when she thought about Briar,  this annoying, funny, beautiful princess she couldn’t help but feel … lighter.

Tingly. Fuzzy inside. Something the dark fairy hadn’t quite experienced before.

It was weird. Different.

But maybe not all bad…