Edited 6/13/22.

A/N: This chapter contains swearing and implied sexual content.

***

"Wow, it really is empty."

"Yeah, you're telling me."

Brad and Marshall pull away from the Cullen house with their current destination being a La Push beach. There's a party happening tonight; and while the vampire initially planned on staying home, he's being dragged along to attend.

Well, that may be exaggerating a bit.

It's not that he doesn't enjoy the occasional soirée—Marshall's just tired. Ever since his family left, he's felt lonelier and lonelier with every passing day. It gets old being in such a large house as a sole occupant. Especially one that thrives off of personal interaction.

He loves going out with his friends. He loves going out to dance and drink. He loves sharing stories and laughs and hugs. Marshall just doesn't like having to return to a dark house to spend the night by himself after such lively outings.

He's becoming more of a hermit, and it seems Brad has noticed.

The young Spaniard wouldn't let up until he received a concrete 'yes' in terms of them both attending this party. It didn't really take much—just a pout and a few well placed flutters of long eyelashes. Marshall caved pretty easily. It made him come to the realization that he spoils Brad.

Neither of them are going to do anything to change that.

"I don't know how you deal with it, dude."

"It's not so bad." The vampire brings his attention to passing trees. "Paul's been staying with me a few nights a week. I spend more time at his house though. Him, work, and hanging out with you has been keeping me busy enough. Still, coming back to it is never easy."

"Well, even more reason to go and party! C'mon man, it's your birthday! What were you planning on doing had I not convinced you to come?"

"I don't know- spend time at Paul's place until he comes back from work. Probably fuck around, and then call it a night."

"Exactly- you can do that any day! Today's special!"

Marshall chuckles. "Yeah, yeah, I get it. So! Am I picking the songs today or are you?"

"Driver picks the songs-"

"And the birthday boy gets what he wants."

Brad's planned rebuttal is interrupted by a snicker. "I'll give you that. And because I'm nice, I'll allow it. So go ahead, Marsh. Immerse us in the colorful world of your music."

Strong bass makes both men bob their heads up and down. The vampire makes little gestures with his hands, swaying his torso from side to side. Brad's thumbs drum against the steering wheel. As the song gets more intense, so do their animated gestures. Excitement fuels a rather amateurish vocal performance. Purposeful mediocre singing makes both men laugh. Joy filled noises fight against blaring music from the speakers.

An orange sun continues to set far off in the distance. The sky is a gradient shifting from dim blue to vibrant pink. It's that time of day where all neighboring structures appear black; like everything is wrapped in one large shadow. Few clouds dot the dual colored celestial sphere. Small stars are beginning to make an appearance as light pollution slowly declines. The road becomes wider, and less cars speed in the opposing direction. After awhile, it's just Brad's moving along the coast.

Crowds of trees shift to a gorgeous view of the open sea and a nearby cliffside. Violent waves crash against it. Murky waters shimmer with the sunset hanging in the background.

Marshall stares in wonder and can't help but think that the cliffside would be a great place for diving. He makes a mental note to tell Paul about it later. Perhaps they can plan a nice date consisting of some thrilling, heart pounding activities.

Brad pulls into the parking lot meant for beachgoers after a few more minutes of driving. Marshall notices that some surrounding cars look familiar. Considering that a few of his coworkers live in La Push, it's not far-fetched to imagine them attending the party as well.

Both men climb out of the car. They're immediately greeted by fresh sea air. It makes a delighted sigh escape the vampire.

He's always loved the beach. Sitting near bodies of water is one of his favorite ways to pass the time. Unfortunately, due to the treaty being in place, he hasn't been able to partake in that specific hobby. There aren't many beaches that don't cross into Quileute territory, so Marshall wasn't physically able to go after moving back to Forks a few decades ago. But now that certain circumstances have changed things, he's been given an opportunity to try something new. To be somewhere new.

There's a bit of envy building since Paul has had such a stunning environment sitting in his backyard—pretty much for his entire life. It's something they'll finally be able to share thanks to their bond.

Brad and Marshall make their way over to the boardwalk. Their shoes make contact with sunbleached wooden planks. The vampire sticks his hands into the pockets of his leather jacket while talking to his friend. A lighthearted conversation about their newest choreography is used to pass the time. Seagulls can be heard screeching in the distance. As can crashing waves and a gentle breeze.

Every step taken closer to shore reveals a plethora of additional fragrances to Marshall. He tilts his head in response to catching the distinct scent of the pack members. He also catches Paul's addictive aroma.

Before any questions or comments can be made, golden eyes are covered. Marshall is led down the rest of the boardwalk without being able to see. His hearing extends at the loss of his sight.

He can hear heartbeats. Crashing waves are more amplified. He listens to the shift when wooden planks end, and their shoes hit dry sand. Heat comes from multiple spots in the distance. The smell of the pack gets stronger. The smell of some of Marshall's coworkers becomes stronger. Even newer smells from people he doesn't know pop up.

It's difficult to imagine what's about to happen, but he can admit that he's thrilled.

His vision is returned after they stop walking. Marshall perks up, a large grin making its way onto his face.

A bunch of his coworkers from past and current theater productions are grouped together. Alongside them are some dance company members, a few people from the orchestra who play during the musicals, and a couple of strangers who are probably their friends. Leading the group—surrounded by Sam, Jared, and Emily—is Paul.

The area is lit up by surrounding bonfires. A few feet away, tables with different assortments of foods can be made out. Coolers are splayed around the beach. Occasional garbage bins are set out as well. Marshall's not sure how he missed it, but soft music is coming from a speaker closer to the water. He assumes ocean soundscapes drowned out the noise.

Golden eyes take a moment to absorb their surroundings. Brad offers a playful grin when Marshall looks at him. Only then does he realize what's actually going on here.

"Surprise!"

"Oh- wow- you guys!" He laughs. "What's with all this?"

"Well, a little birdie told us that you didn't have plans for your birthday." Brad gestures toward Paul. "So he decided to plan a little something for you."

Marshall melts at the sentiment. He takes in the sight of his mate beaming. Slightly trembling hands clasp over the vampire's chest. Butterflies erupt in his stomach as well. "You didn't have to do that, y'know."

Paul's expression softens, and he walks over to his boyfriend. Brad backs up to give the two some space.

Marshall accepts the brief kiss given to him. He also accepts a tight hug, as well as a chaste peck on the crown of his head. A strong arm settles around his waist in a public display of affection. With their relationship being so easily flaunted in front of a large gathering of people, he feels a little bashful. He's also overcome by a great sense of pride.

"I know I didn't have to, but I wanted to. It's your birthday, Marshmallow. And that's something to celebrate. You're worth celebrating." Paul places another kiss onto his imprint's cheek. "So let's have a good ass night, and let's get fucked up!"

The crowd erupts in delighted cheers and claps. Paul whispers a quiet, "Happy birthday, Honey Bun". as the couple walk forward with Brad beside them. Sam and Jared offer their own words; and Emily gives a warm hug to the vampire. He returns it happily. Other members of the party give their greetings before people start tapering off into their own groups.

Marshall settles down on the sand by an active bonfire. Paul, Brad, Emily—and some newer, younger members of the dance company—join him. Sam, Jared, and a few others go off to get snacks for everyone. A few people choose to sit on top of logs; Paul being one of them.

Marshall sits in between his partner's legs with his back resting against the piece of wood. From his position, he's able to lean his head against a toned thigh. An arm is draped around it. A warmer hand settles atop the vampire's, and he takes the liberty of intertwining their fingers.

Conversations go on left and right. Brad actually comes out of his shell by bonding with the other members of the dance company. Since they aren't more seasoned performers with overbearing superiority complexes, these people are much more approachable. They aren't afraid to ask questions on how to be better. They're open to criticism, as well as taking advice from others. It gives the older male a good opportunity to take the role of enthusiastic teacher rather than be a student. He speaks with the confidence of a passionate instructor.

Seeing his best friend with a new circle of pupils makes Marshall smile.

With a delighted hum, he brings his attention upward. He's met with Paul's loving gaze and tender expression. Vibrant gold meets rich brown. Marshall is given an innocent kiss on the forehead. He savors it by closing his eyes. Pleasant heat radiates throughout his entire body. It's another loving gesture that fills him with pride. He revels in being publicly adored by his mate without an ounce of hesitation.

The vampire catches smiling faces in his peripheral vision when he reopens his eyes. It makes delicate butterflies feel more like hyperactive bees; in a good way of course. A specific phrase comes to mind when looking over Paul's handsome features. If things continue as they are, it just might be announced soon.

Jared, Sam, and the others come back with snacks for everyone. There's an assortment of grilled foods like hot dogs, sausages, chicken, and burgers. Some chip and cupcake options are available as well. Marshall perks up at the sight of Jared handing him a wine cooler. It's accepted with an appreciative nod.

Conversations are sprinkled throughout as people eat. Laughter comes from multiple sections of the beach. The occasional spare log is thrown into the bonfire to keep it going.

An overall relaxing atmosphere is changed when more upbeat music starts blaring from the radio. Quite a few people get up to start dancing.

Marshall observes the scene with a chuckle. He starts bobbing his head to the music.

The action catches Brad's attention. "You want to dance?"

"That should be Paul's line," Emily jokes.

"Nah, we all know Paul doesn't dance," Jared adds.

The comment receives a surprised hum. The vampire looks up at his mate with a questioning stare. "Is that true?"

Paul nods. "Not the hugest fan of dancing. I'm more than content to watch you shake your ass for me though."

"Wait 'til we get to your place, and I'll show you something better."

Jared fakes a gag which makes everyone laugh.

After settling down, a few people get up to go dance. Marshall rises to do so as well. He gives Paul a teasing kiss before walking off with Brad.

The song changes to a more rave/club-like tune. It makes multiple people cheer. Marshall lets out his own hollers alongside his friends. He sways and shakes his hips to the beat of the music. His hands run up and down his body. His head moves from side to side, strands of hair repeatedly fall into his field of vision before retreating. Bouts of laughter and shouts continue to come from the crowd with every song change.

"Uh-oh, someone's getting a little handsy," Brad announces over the music. "Marsh, go get your man."

The vampire immediately stops dancing. He looks back at the bonfire where they were sitting. A few people are still there, but Paul isn't one of them.

Golden eyes scan the area before zeroing in on a cooler with some beverages. Paul is standing next to the open bin with a look of annoyance on his face. Some lady has a hand pressed against one of his crossed arms. Her other appendage is near her hair, a single finger twirling a thick strand.

A territorial growl escapes Marshall at the sight of a random woman trying to make moves on his man. The noise makes his friends chime in with a comedic, "Oh shit!" and a distant, "She's released the beast!". He excuses himself with a dangerous tone. Comments of approval are given in return.

The woman doesn't immediately notice Marshall's approach because she's too preoccupied by her one sided flirting. Paul notices his imprint though, and frowns. His expression is apologetic; he knows how this must look. The gesture is met with the vampire shaking his head.

He trusts Paul with every fiber of his being. The one who isn't trusted is the skank trying to bark up the wrong tree.

Her shrill voice pauses at the sound of Marshall's lower pitched one. "Hands off the merchandise, toots. This one's mine."

She turns to face him. Blue eyes widen in response to seeing the man of the hour up close and personal. Her heart rate picks up.

Trying to keep his cool, Marshall sticks both hands in his pockets. Hidden appendages ball into tight fists, and his nails dig into the skin of his palms.

It seems the woman can't read the situation because she turns around completely with a hungered expression. "Well, if it isn't the birthday boy. You really are gorgeous up close. Name's Cassidy-"

"Cool, I don't give a shit. I'm not interested, and neither is he. Bold of you to try and make a move on a man you know is taken."

Cassidy hums with an uncaring shrug. "Look, everyone knows that Paul is fair play."

"Maybe he used to be, but he's not now. So, kindly, fuck off."

"Don't get so hostile- I'm actually doing you a favor. Paul's a horn dog- he doesn't do relationships. He's not the type of guy to just settle for mediocrity."

Marshall catches the rising anger on Paul's face. The vampire shakes his head again. He knows that this woman isn't worth the trouble she's trying to cause.

He finds himself looking over his mate's features. Golden eyes stop at an enticing pair of lips. A devious plan is made right then and there. A large, almost evil grin comes to life.

"Yeah? I'm sure you're right about that. Paul isn't one to settle for mediocrity. Guess that's why he's with me and not with you."

Cassidy is pushed to the side. She lets out a high pitched squeak in alarm. Marshall pays no mind to it. Instead, his full attention is focused on the surprised expression on his boyfriend's face.

Paul doesn't get a chance to say anything before his lips are captured. Without warning, Marshall slips his tongue into his partner's mouth. The gesture is accepted with no resistance.

Pale hands glide into short dark brown hair. And they pull. Hard.

It forces a guttural moan to escape Paul. He wraps his larger hands around his imprint's waist, pulling him closer.

They both hear Cassidy huffing in her spot, but they don't pay her any mind. They continue making out even after she stomps away. Heated kissing only stops when other people notice and start howling in a playful manner.

Marshall looks up with a smirk. "If we weren't on a beach filled with people, I'd let you take me right now."

Paul chuckles. "I didn't peg you as one to get jealous."

"I'm not jealous- I'm territorial. She was stepping over too many boundaries. I'm just protecting what's mine."

He bites his lip while smirking. Another quick kiss is shared before an arm is wrapped securely around Marshall's shoulders. The vampire takes it upon himself to flip Cassidy off when he catches her staring in the distance. The couple share a laugh as they make their way back over to their friends.