Archive of Our Own ^beta

A hundred dollars

“I have a date tonight.”

“Wow. I’d notify the Toronto Sun, but since you have a date every second day that probably doesn’t qualify as news.”

“Funny,” Auston wipes his hands on a cloth and throws it into the open hood of the car he was inspecting. Sweat is running down his neck and he has to blink when he stands. It’s the middle of the day and the sun is high in the sky. “No, I have a date with Mitchell Marner. So you have to pay up.”

“No way! I don’t believe you. You’re making this up.” Nate looks up from the Tupperware bowl of the gross shit he always makes his mother prepare for him. Auston once tried a spoonful and he almost spat it out. “No one gets a date with Rapunzel.”

Auston grins. “Just because you didn’t, doesn’t mean that applies to me.”

“Marty went to mass for over two months every Sunday and helped out in summer camp last year just to impress his parents and they still didn’t allow him to take Mitch out.”

With a shrug, Auston grabs his coke and sits down next to Nate in the shade behind the workshop. The can is pleasantly cold and the condensation feels like a blessing when he presses it against his cheeks before cracking it open and taking a huge sip.

“Guess you two losers aren't what his parents consider 'dating material'."

Nate raises his eyebrows."You drive a motorcycle. You barely passed high school and you're Half-Mexican. Sorry, you know I'm not racist but Paul Marner definitely is. So how the hell did you get them to take out their son on a date?"

"Well, technically I haven’t. Yet."

The shock disappears from Nate’s face faster than he does from the garage after 5 pm and he starts to laugh. The spoon falls into the bowl as he throws his head back, making his Adam's apple pop and showing off the stubble around his jaw.

“Then it’s not a date. Because it will never happen.”

“Mitch agreed. I asked him last night when I met him at the ice cream parlour.”

“He said ‘yes’ to me, too, when I asked him. And to Marty. But we both never sat one toe into the Marner’s house and certainly, Mitch didn’t accompany us when we were chased from their patio. No way his parents are gonna let him climb onto your bike.” Nate shakes his head and takes another big spoon of the green-grey slush that looks like it was eaten before by a cow. Auston can smell it from three feet away and his stomach revolts.

“It’s Friday. That means his dad will be away to ‘play cards’,” Auston makes air quotes. “His brother is probably still in Toronto since it was Canada Day yesterday, so it will only be his mom and she’s way less strict. I can be very charming if I want.”

“You’re still driving that motorcycle. Mrs. Marner may be less strict but she’s scared shitless of them. No way, she will let her precious baby climb onto that."

"Well, give me your car."

Nate cocks his head, probably estimating if Auston is joking. Then he starts laughing again. "Now, that was a good one. Giving you my car so that you can take Mitchell Marner to a date and win a bet that will cost me money?"

Auston shrugs and takes another sip from his coke. It's crazy hot, only two days away from Independence Day and if it weren't for his dad's job he could be spending it on the west coast and at the beach instead of Bumfuck Bracebridge, Ontario. At least he got the day off before. But the town's festivities for their stupid Canada Day totally sucked.

The concrete underneath him is so hot he can feel it through the soles of his sneakers and the streets are so empty he can almost imagine the tumbleweed rolling through them. He doesn’t mind the heat; he’s a desert boy, but this is the North; it shouldn’t be this hot.

Only two more hours left.

Then he's allowed to go home, shower and prepare for his date. If Patty pays them tonight he can even afford some flowers for Mrs. Marner.

Auston pushes himself onto his feet again and crushes the tin can in his hand. With a well-trained move he kicks it into the trashcan ten feet away. His left shoulder and upper arm itch from the healing tattoo.

"Don't need your stupid car anyway."

"We'll see… we'll see." Nate follows him more slowly and with a groan.

Together they work on the Ford Cortina that is probably as old as Patty and should go straight to the scrap press (if you ask Auston) until they have the motor purring again.

"Yahayy," Nate whistles from behind the wheel. His face is red and blotchy and there is black grease on his temples as if he’s been the one with his head under the hood.

"Maybe if we clean up the tools for a change Patty allows us to leave earlier. It makes no sense to start on Mr. Kadri's Datsun today anymore."

"Are you that much in a rush to get blown off by Mrs. Marner?"

"No, just can't wait to kiss her son. I’ll tell you tomorrow if he tastes as sweet as he looks. Bring the $100 in small bills." For a second Auston allows himself to think about Mitch's lips, how soft they looked last night and how pink they were from the strawberry slushie.

"Only if I see the proof. If you think I take your word for it, you're more stupid than I thought."

"I'll make sure to leave the hickey. Or two."

Nate throws the oil can at him but Auston catches it from the air and smirks.

"You're way too cocky. Don't cry if that blows up in your face."

__

Patty pays them and Auston buys a bouquet of pink flowers from the supermarket. He would have gone to the flower shop on Main Street but he didn’t want to risk running into Jane there and causing an ugly scene. So that will have to make due.

Two hours later at 7 pm sharp, he rings the doorbell of the Marner’s pristine white house on Maple Street. Rose bushes and rhododendrons are lining the path to the front steps and not a single weed is forcing its way through the paving stones, and not a dry leaf is ruining the perfectly mown lawn. A Hollywood swing with a floral pattern is sitting on the patio and the air is rich from the freshly watered geraniums along the wooden railing.

The house is as picturesque and innocent as Mitchell Marner’s appearance in school.

It could be intimidating if Auston were easily impressed.

A quick glance into the driveway and the open parking garage showed him that there’s only Mrs. Marner’s car parked; meaning he was right about the absence of both Mr. Marner and Mitch’s older brother.

From inside the house, he can hear faint music playing and then light, fast footsteps coming closer. He has just enough time to straighten his back and then the door gets yanked open and he’s staring at Mitch.

It’s not possible that he got even more pretty than last night but he certainly got prettier since the day Auston spotted him the first time almost a year ago in the schoolyard.

The hair is longer now, almost reaching his shoulders and falling into his eyes. Which is a pity because they are very blue, with the longest lashes that Auston has ever seen on a boy; maybe even longer than some of the girls’ he went out with. Mitch’s cheeks are a little flushed, and his lips are shiny and pink, reminding Auston of the flowers he bought for Mrs. Marner.

He doesn’t know why his friends call Mitch Rapunzel—because to Auston he looks like Snow White.

Mitch blushes even more and Auston realizes he must have said that last part aloud.

“Snow White, really?” Amusement blinks in Mitch’s eyes; he giggles.

“Or Sleeping Beauty? The one with the roses.”

“From both of us you’re the one with the roses, at least right now." Mitch points to the bouquet Auston is holding. "But you don’t look anything like Sleeping Beauty.”

“Thank fu—” Auston interrupts his cursing. “I mean, thank god. Because I was hoping to be your prince tonight.”

Now Mitch throws his head back and laughs openly. It’s a sound that doesn’t really fit his delicate appearance: croaky, a bit too loud, and to Auston in this moment hopelessly endearing.

“That was bad, I know.”

“It was. It really was.”

“I’m sorry. I try better next time.”

Mitch brushes his hair back and raises his eyebrows. “Next time? You haven’t even taken me out on a date once.”

As if on cue Mrs. Marner’s voice is calling from the next room, and the music gets turned down.

“Who is it, honey?”

The next second she’s stepping into the hallway, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel. She’s blond, kind-looking and has the same big smile as Mitch. Her eyes widen when she spots Auston with the flowers, then she frowns.

“You’re neither Dylan nor Connor.”

Those are probably the two boys Mitch always hangs out with—Auston vaguely remembers them: one tall, with dark hair and bags under his eyes, the other freckled with ginger hair and a too-serious expression. He shakes his head and stretches out his hand with the flowers.

“No, Ma’am, I’m Auston. I want to take out your son.” He swears he can pinpoint the exact second Mrs. Marner’s smile freezes, and so he hurries to press the bouquet into her hands. “These—these are for you.”

“Thank you. But I’ve never seen you before. Do you go to school with my son?” She accepts it with hesitation.

“I used to. Graduated this summer. My parents moved here last year. Ema and Brian Matthews. I currently work in Marleau’s shop.”

“And you want to take Mitch on a date?”

From the corner of his eye, Auston can see Mitch flinch. He suddenly looks so scared and timid; it’s such a change from before when he was teasing Auston. When he seemed so amused and alive. Now it’s like someone switched off the light and painted his whole world grey. It’s the saddest thing he’s ever seen and he can feel something inside him harden with determination.

(It was just a bet. A game. It was about winning.)

“Yes, Ma’m,” he tries to give her his best ‘good boy’ smile but she stops him with a headshake before he’s even finished.

“I’m sorry, Auston. You seem like a sweet boy. But Mitch isn’t allowed to go on dates until he’s finished high school, and most certainly not with older boys.” She really sounds like she’s regretful, but Auston notices the exact moment when her eyes flicker to his motorcycle because all colour bleeds out of her face. “And most certainly not with older boys who ride a motorcycle.”

"I'm a very safe driver, I even have a helmet that I can give to Mitch. We only plan on going to the movie theater and then grabbing some dinner at Jumbo's diner."

Next to his mother Mitch looks at her so pleadingly and hopefully that something in Auston's chest twitches. He's glad he thought about borrowing the helmet from Patty. And that he’s wearing his jean jacket so that his tattoo is covered.

For a few seconds, Mrs. Marner’s expression seems to melt as if she’s in conflict with conviction and compassion so he continues. “I’m leaving for college in autumn, and my family’s moving again, too. I know you want Mitch to focus on finishing high school, and I respect that. But I just… I just had to ask him out. I’ve been working up the courage for the whole last year.”

Both Mitch and his mother blink at that. Mitch tentatively grabs her arm as she looks down at the flowers.

“Is that true?” They ask at the same time.

It was just a bet. It was about winning. But it’s not anymore and when Auston nods it doesn’t feel like a lie anymore.

__

Mrs. Marner doesn’t allow Mitch to ride on his motorcycle.

But she lends Auston her car to drive them to the movie theater and the diner. She makes Auston promise to bring Mitch back at 10 pm sharp (before her husband comes back home) and both he and Mitch nod immediately and eagerly to prevent her from changing her mind.

Her Ford Escort is the most boring car Auston’s ever driven but Mitch smiles so brightly that he doesn't mind.

"What movie do you want to watch?"

Mitch shrugs; he looks relaxed. The moment they turned left and out of view of his mother who was definitely staring after them he opened the window and put his feet on the dashboard. "I don't care. A short one, please."

"You don't like going to the theater?" Auston is surprised. He doesn't know much about Mitch but I thought he would love that. "Aren't you in drama club and in the movie club?"

"I am. Dylan and I actually founded the movie club, but we have less than three hours and I look really forward to the burgers," he says sheepishly, giving Auston a long look before brushing his hair behind his ear.

"We could do that first and go to the theater later?"

"Or we go for a drive afterward, watch the sunset at the lake."

For a second Auston thinks that Mitch is joking and he turns towards him. But Mitch is still watching him expectingly, fingers playing with his hair. He doesn't avert his eyes as he bites on his lower lip. If Auston doesn't know better he would say Mitch is flirting.

'Going for a drive and watching the sunset' is the universal code for making out and Auston's more than up for it.

"Are you sure? Won't we get into trouble?"

"I go to the theater all the time. I can retell " This is spinal tap" convincingly enough for my mother to believe me. "

Auston taps his hand against the steering wheel. It's perfect. He's sure if he brings Mitch to his spot he will get to kiss him. He just never thought that Mitch would lie to his parents. Maybe this will be even easier than expected.

"Okay, I know a really nice spot where we'll have a pretty view."

__

Jumbo's diner is a popular place among young people, especially at the weekend. But luckily Auston manages to find a parking spot along the street without wasting too much time.

"Would've been easier with the bike," he mumbles when he kills the motor. Then he quickly gets out and rounds the car to open the door for Mitch who blushes but gives him a thankful smile.

"Would've also attracted way more attention."

Damn, Mitch is really good at reading him. Because Auston likes a big entrance and he's sure the restaurant will be full of students. But he's also sure they will attract enough attention when they walk in: no one has been able to take out Mitch on a date before him. And he knows many guys have tried even before he and Nate and Marty made that bet.

On the patio, they meet Anna, Elsa and Sven, the Swedish exchange student who won every track and field competition for Bracebridge High this spring. Auston took Ana to the sunset spot at the lake last autumn but they both moved on without any hard feelings, and they all wish them a great night before heading to the movie theater. Inside the diner, Auston immediately spots Marty with his boy of the week—Auston doesn’t know him, but he’s cute in a very nerdy way with freckles and glasses. Marty almost drops his milkshake when he lays eyes on Mitch and Auston can’t help his triumphant grin.

‘You know it only counts if he sports that hickey tomorrow, right?’ Marty whispers as he passes them.

Thankfully Mitch appears to be too distracted by the music box in the corner to overhear the exchange and he drags Auston with him before Auston gets a chance to shove Marty. It’s probably not worth the effort anyway; everyone knows Marty is a shit-talker, and Mitch is turning towards him with a sweep of his lashes.

“Can we pick a song?”

(Auston can’t imagine anyone saying ‘no’ to that look.)

They find a small table while the synthesizer beat of ‘Tainted Love’ is blasting from the speakers. Mitch smiles up at Auston, eyes sparkling. He loves that song, it’s obvious. That he can make Mitch that happy with just a quarter is amazing, but he’s still glad that today was payday and that Patty also generously paid him for the overtime hours he put in fixing Mr. Tavares's DMC-12—which… Auston would probably have paid to get his fingers on that car. The additional money is nice to have though and makes him feel generous when he says that Mitch should order whatever he wants and pick another song.

(The other reason is the strange wish of giving Mitch a perfect first-date experience and making him look at Auston like this as much as possible.)

They both order a shared appetizer of mozzarella sticks and then burgers with fries on the side. Mitch gets a big chocolate-peanut-butter shake and a banana split afterward while Auston has coke and just an iced coffee instead of a dessert. He knows he’s got to stay in shape for university. But he can’t say ‘no’ when Mitch offers him a heavenly spoonful of icecream, banana, and chocolate sauce, topped with one of the bright red cherries.

The food is so good Mitch makes noises that are completely indecent and Auston has to file them away for later when he’s alone in bed; just like the sight of Mitch licking his fingers and spoon clean or sucking the cherry into his mouth with pink painted lips.

They talk about their holidays so far, about the summer jobs they have taken on, their siblings and their parents; although Mitch quickly changes the topic when it comes to that. They exchange stories about students they both know, and teachers they loved and hated. They laugh and judge the other’s taste in music, movies and sports teams.

Auston can’t remember the last time he’s felt that relaxed and as himself on a date, or the last time he took someone out who obviously enjoys everything as much as Mitch without ever sounding fake or giving off weird feelings. Mitch may look shy and timid, but he’s clearly strong-willed and doesn’t hesitate to voice his opinions and feelings; it’s so refreshing that Auston just has to reply in a way that makes Mitch roll his eyes, giggle or smile at him. He’s not used to having his dates contradicting him, but with Mitch it feels so good that he can’t stop himself from teasing Mitch only to provoke another reaction.

When the waitress asks them if they care for another dessert, the implied ‘please make room for other paying customers’ barely veiled, it’s half past eight and their time is halfway up.

Mitch bites his lips and falls silent; as if the reminder is enough to dampen his mood. He shakes his head.

“If you’re still up to drive to the sunset spot at the lake we could have another milkshake to take away…?” Auston offers. “But if you rather go to the movie theater we can have popcorn there?”

Again a head shake, followed by a hasty nod. No to the movie, yes to the popcorn.

So they buy popcorn at the counter, splatter it with melted butter and salt and caramel sauce, before Auston steers the car over the winding road along the beach to his spot. The last couple of hundred meters are on gravel; a bumpy path that causes Mitch to spill popcorn all over his lap and the foot well.

“Oops,” he laughs; a sound so careless that Auston has to slow down the car and then stop it because he just needs to look at Mitch’s face—flushed cheeks, hair messed up around his face, and a smile that reveals pure joy. “I guess that makes the lie about the movie theater more believable.”

“As long—” Jesus, is that his voice? Auston feels like he swallowed fire or sand; his throat is dry like parchment. “As long as I’m not the one who gets the blame.”

Mitch shrugs. “It’s my Saturday duty to clean and vacuum the cars, so she won’t blame you that much.”

"Good. I'd hate to leave a bad impression. But I'm sorry that this makes your task harder."

"You got my mom to allow me to go on a date… trust me, that's worth the additional work." Mitch shrugs.

"I hope you have no reason to regret it."

"So far? No." Another one of those long looks, followed by another sweep of lashes and if Auston hadn't already grasped why Mitch was the most popular boy in the whole town, he would have now. That view is designed to make stronger guys than him cave. "But that doesn't mean you can start to slack now."

It's said with that already familiar teasing voice, accompanied by a wink that seems like a promise and a challenge at the same time.

Auston has to really pull himself together so he doesn't reach for Mitch and pull him into his lap, or at least lean over to steal a kiss. (Not because of the hundred dollars this will get him, only because Mitch is cute, so pretty and so so very much more than he expected him to be.)

But he doesn't, even though Mitch would probably let him, and instead continues to drive until the gravel path ends and turns into a small trail.

"I'm afraid we have to walk a bit now. Just a couple hundred meters." He announces as he kills the motor. "It wouldn't be an issue if we'd taken the bike…"

"Why do I get the impression I'm not the first person you've taken to this spot?" Mitch asks as he accepts the hand Auston offers to help him out of the car. He sounds more curious than pissed or insulted.

"Hey, I had to test the location. As you said, you deserve only the best."

"You know that I expect a hidden picnic basket with a bottle of champagne and strawberries now. Or at least some wine."

Auston is taken a little bit aback by Mitch's bold teasing; in a good way. He never expected him to be so flirty. Whenever he spotted Mitch on the school grounds he seemed so shy and well-behaved—almost a little bit demure and boring. But this is another interesting turn of this night and Auston can't wait to learn if this is only caused by the excitement of finally being on a date or if he's been fooling them all so far; the other students, the teachers, his parents…

He can't wait to find out how far he can take this. How far Mitch is willing to go with his flirting. How open he is when Auston finally tries to kiss him.

It's thrilling and tempting—and Auston hasn't been surprised on a date for a long time now.

"No champagne, and no wine. Sorry," he answers, taking far too long for his own liking. "I promised to get you home safe."

Mitch pouts, and it's one of the most adorable things Auston's ever seen. He's too pretty like that.

"Next time," he promises before he can stop himself. Usually, he doesn't do second dates. But the way Mitch's eyes widen and a soft little smile spreads on his face is maybe worth a second date. Although the smile immediately dies, the hopeful expression falters and sadness extinguishes the happiness.

"My parents won't allow it. It's a miracle that my mom agreed today. It won't happen again."

Auston tentatively reaches for Mitch, and tips his head up with a hand under his chin. When Mitch doesn't flinch or stop him, he brushes his thumb over his cheek.

"I will try, trust me. But let's not think about that anymore, okay? At least for another hour. Let's just enjoy this."

Mitch nods and holds onto Auston's hand as he leads him along a little path on the edge of the lake. The sun is already painting the sky in beautiful golden and orange colours, still quite high above the horizon, still warming their skin, even though most of the muggy heat of the day is gone. Luckily they have the place for themselves, a small patch of grass, secluded from the main road by bushes and a field of corn. Waves are lapping on the narrow edge of the water and a soft breeze is rustling the leaves around them as Auston spreads his jean jacket out for Mitch.

"Thanks," Mitch sits down on the edge, obviously leaving room for Auston next to him. Their bodies are touching and they are close enough that Auston can smell him; a fresh soapy scent. He instinctively leans a little bit in to get another whiff. It's not flowery or fruity, like the products a girl would use, more green and clean—like a morning in spring.

"You smell really good."

"It's just shampoo."

"Still nice."

For a second Mitch looks at him, then he cocks his head and burrows it in the crook of Auston's neck. It takes Auston completely by surprise, and he stills, doesn't dare to move because that is Mitch's nose ghosting over the shell of his ear. Those are Mitch's lips brushing over that sweet spot at the hinge of his jaw.

It's obvious that he's repeating Auston's gesture but the barely-there touch still sends shivers down his spine and heat pools in his lower body.

'Fuck.'

Does Mitch know what he's doing? Does he do this on purpose?

(Auston doesn't care.)

It's working.

"You're not smelling that bad either for a mechanic."

Auston's mouth is all dry but he finally manages to reply.

"It's just a side job. Also, we have showers at our house. Sometimes I use them."

"That's very considerate of you," Mitch giggles before he pulls back and stretches his legs; his eyes are still on Auston and shining with mischief. "Is that your dad's cologne?"

(It is.)

"Depends… do you like it?"

"I think I just expressed my feelings about it."

"Then it's mine."

Mitch laughs. That whole-body laughter that makes his face light up from within and his teeth show. He looks carefree and so himself that it was worth the bad joke. Auston shifts slightly to watch Mitch instead of the sunset. But he's not here for that; not when Mitch is so much more satisfying to look at. After a couple of moments, Mitch mirrors his action and they are sitting cross-legged; their sides are no longer pressed together but their knees are touching and shortly after their fingertips tentatively find each other’s. Auston notices the contrast between them and he feels a surge of affection. Mitch's hands are pale, his knuckles bony and compared to Auston's they are small and delicate.

Not like a girl's, different, but he loves it.

"Is it really true?" Mitch finally asks after they have sat like this for a while, listening to the crickets and the little waves lapping on the banks of the lake. They just talked about the new Indiana Jones movie, and Auston teased Mitch about his crush on Harrison Ford.

"That I'm into Princess Leia? Sure. I mean every boy with two working eyes probably is." Auston grabs a handful of popcorn; it's drenched in molten butter and he probably shouldn't have any, but it's worth it for the expression on Mitch's face. He reminds Auston of a little kid who lost their favourite toy.

"Well, I am more into her future husband. Or Luke, at least in the first movie… But that wasn't my question." Mitch rolls his eyes before he widens them in surprise when Auston feeds him a kernel of popcorn. "Is it true that you're moving away again soon? That you wanted to ask me out since your first day?"

Maybe Auston should've expected these questions; Mitch isn't stupid. And yet they take him by surprise. Like the tip of Mitch's tongue that is now tickling his fingertip, searching for the reminders of butter and sugar while Mitch's eyes are searching for the truth in Auston's.

Suddenly Auston wants to be everywhere but here. Wants to hide in his bedroom.

No, he doesn't—he wants to be here, with Mitch. But he wants to turn back the time two hours before he lied.

Mitch is kind and sweet and good. Auston just knows he hates lies.

When Mitch's expression starts to falter Auston knows he has to say something. Has to come clean and make amends if he wants to see Mitch again that kiss.

He shakes his head. "No, I… it was a lie. We're not moving away. I mean technically I will move away to college but my family's staying here. I was just so desperate and I thought—well I thought that it would help persuade your mom."

Auston can literally watch how Mitch stiffens; he sits straighter and shifts so that their knees aren't touching anymore. It leaves him immediately colder, even though it's still about 70 degrees.

"So you thought lying would be a good way to impress my bible loving parents?"

"I didn't plan on it! And it's not like it was a complete lie. I will be gone, and the chances to take you out will be decisively smaller."

Mitch cocks his head; his hair is falling into his face and hiding half of it. Auston's breath catches in his throat—he can't look away, can barely stop himself from saying more to defend himself. But he knows it would only make everything worse. So he doesn't and tries to hold Mitch's gaze.

"I guess you're right." When Mitch finally shrugs Auston's heart gives a jump of relief.

"I still hate that you did it. I hate liars."

"I do, too. But I think… it was worth it. Don't you agree?"

After a second Mitch nods; a little smile curls the corners of his mouth.

When Auston carefully scoots closer again and brings their knees together, Mitch doesn't flinch back. Growing bolder he reaches for Mitch's hand, who allows him to brush his thumb over the back of it and marvel at the softness of his skin; the tenderness of his knuckles and the vulnerability of the veins. Without knowing what he's doing Auston lifts it to his lips.

But just when they are about to get their first taste, Mitch pulls back.

"What about the other thing? That you wanted to ask me out since the first day? Was that the truth at least, or was that another lie?"

One part of Auston isn't even surprised about this question. But he wants to pretend that Mitch sounds a little desperate now, begging. Hopeful. Although he's not sure. Mitch could also only be wary and on the brink of jumping up and demanding to be taken home.

Their knees are still touching.

(Auston has never paid more attention to such a minuscule contact. Has never valued something as prudish and profane as this so much.)

For a second he has to close his eyes; not search for a lie or an excuse. He searches for the truth in the mix of his confused emotions. If Mitch asked this the day before, or even ten hours before the answer would have been a lie. But now? It's not anymore.

"No," he admits; voice raw and low. "It was the truth."

Mitch stops breathing. Auston can feel the rapid beat of his heart in the pulse point on his wrists. Like a trapped butterfly.

"I didn't know until today. But I did. I wanted to take you out since the first day. I still remember the moment I first laid eyes on you… how you got out of the school bus, clad in black cord trousers, a crisp white shirt and a letterman jacket. Your hair was shorter than it's now and you still had braces. I remember how I thought 'what a boring catholic boy'. And then you turned and smiled at your friend - the string bean one with the raccoon eyes - and suddenly the only thing on my mind was that I needed to date you, to have you smile at me like that. To have you wear my jacket."

Mitch breathes again; inhales with a wide-eyed gasp. Then he shakes his head furiously.

"You're lying."

"I'm not." Auston has suppressed the image for months, but now it's back on his mind; he can see it vividly: the golden morning light on Mitch's hair, the peach blush on his cheeks, the cinnamon freckles on his cheeks. He can hear it clearly: the white noise of cars and students arriving, the birds singing. He can almost taste it perfectly: the late summer air, the coffee and the stolen cigarette from his dad.

"Then why did you never ask me out before?"

"You're wearing the letterman of someone else every week; everyone wants to be with you, and your parents don't allow you to date." Auston shrugs. "It just seemed hopeless."

It's probably just seconds until Mitch answers, but to Auston it's hours. Hours in which Mitch only stares at him, fingers playing with a loose thread on his jeans. The sun is approaching the horizon and a car passes by on the nearby road. The white beams of its headlights brush over the bushes and the high grass. Finally, Mitch smiles and Auston thinks one could hear the stone dropping from his heart in a fifty-mile radius.

"I believe you."

"I'm sorry I had to lie, I hate lies, too. But… to be honest, I'd probably do it again if gets me a date with you." With a tentative hand, Auston reaches for Mitch, prepared for rejection. It doesn't come and this time Mitch allows him to guide it to his lips and kiss the knuckles. "This is worth it."

"Yes," Mitch whispers. "This is the best first date I've ever had."

Auston looks up when Mitch cups his face and brushes his thumbs over his cheeks. It's a delicate gesture, and he never wants it to stop. Mitch's eyes are very blue and very wide—as if he's surprised by his own bold move, and when Auston places his own hand on top of Mitch's they both hold their breath.

"I'm going to kiss you."

Mitch's eyes flutter; his lashes are so long and beautiful that Auston needs a few heartbeats to admire them. They cast shadows on Mitch's golden-tinted skin that feels warm when he touches it.

Never before has Auston hesitated to kiss someone, never before he has felt as if he's performing a sacral ritual. He just went in, no thought, no finesse, no regret.

"Please."

"Is this your first kiss?"

Red is bleeding into Mitch's cheeks; teeth sink into his lower lip. But finally he nods and confirms what Auston already suspected.

"I will treasure it."

And then he kisses Mitch.

It's only a chaste closed-mouth kiss. Only a few seconds. No tongue, no teeth, no licking, no biting. Sweet and innocent. When Auston pulls back his lips tingle and his whole body feels on fire. He's breathless and frantic and his chest is too small for all the sensations while he tries to calm his heartbeat. He tastes caramel from the popcorn, salt from the fries and underneath he tastes Mitch, and that is the best flavour he's ever had.

Mitch's eyelids flutter before he opens his eyes and licks over his lips—as if he wants to taste Auston the way he did Mitch. The tip of his tongue is pink and cute and tempting; a sight that makes Auston's heart speed up. Makes him wish he took a real kiss and licked into Mitch's mouth instead of keeping it pure.

(Maybe this was his only chance.)

"I can do better," he mumbles before Mitch can say anything. "I want to."

Mitch's answer is another sweep of his lashes, a blush on his cheeks and a subtle nod of his head.

'Please.'

Auston has kissed many people before; girls and boys, some were older than him and some younger. Some were experienced and some were not. But he's never felt as insecure, nervous or special the way he does right now.

Kissing Mitch isn't like kissing anyone else.

Kissing Mitch makes him feel things he's never felt before.

Kissing Mitch makes him want to never kiss anyone else again.

Their lips meet once more and Auston's eyes fall shut—he has never been a blind kisser, always tried to stay focused on the kiss, on the other person and the experience that he could gather from it. When he angles his head and opens his mouth, Mitch goes rigid for a second, maybe because of surprise, maybe because of the sensation. But he quickly understands and mirrors the action so Auston has better access to deepen the kiss and tentatively meet Mitch's tongue. Electricity runs through Auston's body and down his spine at the touch and he can't help the little sound of pleasure that escapes him. At first, Mitch smiles and then he giggles, causing them to break apart.

"Sorry… it feels—"

"Strange? I know," Auston chuckles, too. He remembers his first kiss.

"Yeah. But I like it. I want more."

This time it's Mitch who leans in and closes the small distance between them, winding his arms around Auston to bring them closer; as close as it's possible while sitting cross-legged. This time Mitch immediately cocks his head and licks over Auston's bottom lip, asking for entrance. This time Mitch doesn't giggle when their tongues touch.

Their lips lock and their noses brush; it's like two puzzle pieces, fitting perfectly. No awkward clicking of teeth, no miss-coordination when they move.

It makes Auston bold enough to place his hands around Mitch's face and brush his thumbs over Mitch's cheeks. They feel hot, and the idea that his doings, that their kiss is affecting Mitch as much as him is mindblowing. Without breaking the kiss he guides Mitch to change his position, pulling him in and in until Mitch is climbing onto his lap.

They both moan at the sudden closeness and Auston feels the sound vibrating in the sides of Mitch's neck.

It's so thrilling that his cock jerks; half-hard already and all they have done is harmless kissing.

'Jesus,' he thinks when Mitch sucks softly on the tip of his tongue; it's the most thrilling and arousing experience he's ever had. Until they need to part for oxygen. Mitch whimpers unwillingly as if not kissing Auston is an affront.

"Shh," Auston tries to calm him, peppering the corner of Mitch's mouth with little pecks while trying to gather enough air for more. It's only when he reaches the hinge of Mitch's jaw and the spot where he can feel his blood beating fast and hot that he remembers the bet. Remembers that he has to leave a hickey there. Mitch shivers in his lap, presses himself closer instinctively and Auston's mind goes blank for a second with pure want. He opens his mouth, licks over the spot, once, twice and then bites down gently just to cause another shiver to run through Mitch's body and to make him inch closer.

(It's impossible that he doesn't know what he's doing to Auston.)

It's possible that Auston never ever wanted someone something as much as he wants Mitch. He wants to mark him, wants to signalize to everyone that he kissed Mitch. That Mitch is his.

He starts to suck softly on the tender skin that feels more smooth and more expensive than silk or velvet. It's not enough to gather blood and leave a bruise, but somehow he can't bring himself to do it.

"Please don't," Mitch whispers after Auston pressed another kiss onto the hot skin. "Don't do it." Auston withdraws in confusion and opens his eyes.

"I'm sorry, I thought you wanted…"

"Don't leave a hickey," Mitch's gaze is pleading. "I mean. Wasn't that the proof that you need to collect your debt?"

Auston freezes and stops breathing. All blood leaves his face, he can feel it. He doesn't dare to speak. Surely Mitch doesn't know—

"I heard about the bet."

Finally, Auston manages to move and he straightens until he can look into Mitch's blue eyes.

"What are you talk—"

Mitch holds his gaze; taunting and defensive, crisp and sharp. "Please…" He waves his hand. "Don't make it worse. I know about the bet you made with Nate and Marty. And I know that you have to leave a hickey on my neck to prove that you kissed me."

"I, we didn't…" then Auston trails off; he's told enough lies for today. "I'm sorry. I—we. It was just a stupid stupid bet that we made. I would've never done it if I had known you before." How much this is the truth he only realizes while he's speaking. How much he wants Mitch to believe him he only realizes while he's staring at Mitch's face. How much he wishes he could turn back the time he only realizes when Mitch doesn't react, doesn't smile or when his features become even harder.

"Please, believe me, Mitch. It was stupid. I was stupid."

"No, it wasn't stupid, Auston. It was reckless, mean and degrading." Finally, Mitch slides from Auston's lap and he immediately feels cold. But when his hands instinctively reach for Mitch he stops himself in the last second. Even if Mitch would have allowed it, Auston knows he doesn't deserve to touch him.

"At least tell me what my kiss is worth. You owe me that."

Auston has never ever felt more ashamed, and he's never ever regretted anything more in his whole life. Not because he won't reap the benefits. Not because he won't win the money. Only because he hurt Mitch. Disappointed his trust. Ruined his own hope for… something more. Something he didn't even know he wanted. He closes his eyes for a second, searching for words, a way to make Mitch believe him.

"A hundred dollars."

Mitch closes his eyes, bottom lip between his teeth, knuckles white.

Auston wants to hit himself for doing that to him. He doesn't know what he can say to not hurt him more.

"That is a lot of money."

"I don't want it. Believe me, Mitch. I don't want it and I never did."

"How can I believe you when you lied before? When you agreed to such a bet?"

Of course, he would ask this; Mitch isn't stupid. He opens his eyes but keeps his head down so he doesn't have to look at Auston's face. Auston can understand him; he doesn't think he deserves to ever look at Mitch again.

"I've wanted to ask you out from the very first day in school. That wasn't a lie. I've never done it because you're the most popular boy and because I knew I wouldn't stand a chance. The bet was the only reason I finally tried. Yes, the money would've been nice, I admit, but I—I stopped thinking about it the moment you opened the door, and I stopped wanting it by the time we set foot into the diner. I had such a great time and you're… you're really special. I wouldn't have left a hickey, I promise. I couldn't bring myself to do it and get you into trouble." Auston knows that he probably sounds desperate, that he's pleading for Mitch to believe him. But if that's his only chance it's worth it.

"My parents would never let me out again."

"I know, Mitch. I know. This… bet. That was an asshole move, from all three of us. But I'm not that much of an asshole that I want you to get punished or hurt."

Finally, Mitch raises his head and meets Auston's eyes. The sun has almost set but it's still light enough that Auston can see that the defiance is gone from his face, that instead he's now carefully pondering Auston's fate.

It shouldn't give him hope because he doesn't deserve it, but he can't help it. His heart is beating painfully hard inside his chest and he can barely breathe while he waits for Mitch to say something.

"You're right, Auston, you are an asshole."

The words are like a stone dropping down on him and crushing him. Auston didn't expect them to be so painful. He's never been the one who got ditched, never got his heart broken - because he never went into a relationship with his heart. But this pain right now feels like he imagines heartbreak. He bites his lips while he holds Mitch's gaze.

"I'm sorry," he whispers again, still not daring to look away from Mitch. He's very pretty in the low light that slowly makes all the colours bleed away. Long strands of hair are falling into his face, and his lips are plush and swollen from the kissing. His lashes are more beautiful than any girl's Auston has ever dated and wishes he could feel them brushing over his skin.

A futile wish because it will never become true now. And it's his own fault.

Auston wants to scream in frustration. His hands still remember the velvet feeling of Mitch's skin, his lips the softness and the taste of Mitch's mouth. His body the sensation of Mitch's pressed against his. It would have been better if he never got to experience it before if he never learned how good it would feel.

And suddenly a thought hits him.

"Why did you agree when you knew it was a bet? Why would you allow me to kiss you?"

Mitch's eyes widen; the defiance, hurt and sadness vanish and turn into embarrassment.

"I think you should drive me back now. It's getting late."

He's right; one glance onto Auston's Casio watch confirms it but…

"I will, I promise. Just answer the question. Please."

Again Mitch bites his lower lip. As he brushes back his hair behind his ear, his fingers tremble, and Auston thinks back to the Christmas festival last year, when Mitch played the piano. Mitch has beautiful, long fingers, and the places on his shoulder and back tingles where Mitch has touched him.

"What do you think?"

"I don't know, Mitch… I—this… I've never had a date like this. Never had that much fun and felt as good as I did before and never felt as bad either." He shrugs helplessly.

"I've never been on a date. I'm seventeen and I've never been on a date before. I've never been kissed and I've never made out with a guy. And suddenly I hear these rumours about how some guys made a bet about dating me and kissing me? I just… I was so pissed? And hurt? I couldn’t believe that anyone would do something like that. But I was also flattered… I guess?“ he whispers it, as if he’s ashamed. "You're all hot and popular. You could date whoever you want… and yet, you picked me."

Auston wants to laugh, wants to interrupt Mitch's rambling and self-deprecation. Because he has to know how pretty and special he is. But he doesn't.

"I never expected one of you could ever convince my parents to let me date you, so I didn't say something. Then you did and I saw a chance to get back at you." Mitch closes his eyes for a second. When he opens them again he snorts and shakes his head. "But I had such a great time today; it was even better than I imagined my first date to be. I totally forgot that I wanted revenge. I just wished this was real."

The mix of distress and despair on Mitch's face is enough to melt any annoyance or anger that Auston experienced for a few seconds. Especially when he looks up at him with pleading eyes. He remembers the sadness and the hope from earlier while Auston talked to his mother. Remembers how sorry he was for Mitch. It's not a hardship to nod and smile at Mitch. To try and make him feel better.

"I get it… At least I think I do. It was a bet for me, but it's not anymore."

"I love my parents, I really do. But their decisions are hard to understand for me. I mean… It's not like I want to go out all night, do drugs and have sex." Mitch huffs before he immediately turns serious again. "I just want a normal teenager life."

Mitch shrugs and chuckles but Auston is sure that it's a gesture of helplessness and he wants to pull Mitch back against his body and comfort him. Make him forget for a few more minutes that he has to go back to his invisible cage very soon.

He doesn't do any of that—he doesn't know if he's allowed, if Mitch still wants him to.

He doesn't know if Mitch wants him or If Mitch doesn't care who of them three it is. Or if he would rather have Marty or Nate here with him.

"It's… it's really okay, Mitch," he finally manages to say. "I would have probably done the same if I were in your place." He can't deny it. He would have done it, and way worse. He's not even half a good person as Mitch. "I'm sorry that your first date happened like this. I would've tried better if I knew that."

Now Mitch shakes his head furiously and reaches for his hand. His smile is sweet again when Auston flinches in surprise. "What are you even talking about, dumbass? As I said, I loved it. Every minute. I want it to be real."

"And you don't wish that I was Marty or Nate?" Auston is aware that this question will make him sound like a petty ass again, but he needs to know.

For a second Mitch only looks at him, then he laughs. It's this whole-hearted sound that immediately causes a warm shiver to run through Auston's body, from his shoulders, over his back and down his legs until it brizzles in his toes—relief. Because Mitch shakes his head again, expression so amused and so delighted that his eyes literally sparkle. Auston's not a romantic, but he swears that they do.

"My type are tall, cocky and handsome assholes," Mitch winks. It's obvious that he enjoys Auston's insecurity. "But no, I don't wish that you were Marty or Nate. I probably would have gone on a date with them if they managed to convince my parents, but I definitely wouldn't have kissed them, or let them mark me."

"I'm glad." Auston breathes. There's a part of him that gets a boost of confidence from Mitch's words. But the bigger part is just too charmed and pleased about Mitch's answer. He also wants to kiss Mitch again—not to leave a hickey, not to savour the consolation prize that at least Mitch would have picked him. "Because I wish this is real, too."

Only for the sake of touching Mitch, feeling and tasting his lips and mouth. Of giving him something to remember. To have something to remember when he's at Jasmine's party later that night or on mediocre dates in college.

Yet another glance at his watch shows him that it's almost 10 pm and that they have to leave if they want to have a chance to make it back on time without getting Mitch into trouble.

They hardly speak during the too-short drive and they are only a couple of minutes late. Mr. Marner's car isn't in the driveway yet. The relief on Mitch's face is enough for Auston to not regret his decision.

Mitch gives him a sad smile while he climbs out of his seat, and he holds Auston's eyes for long seconds, standing in front of him and biting his lips. They aren't close enough to touch, still a couple of inches between them but Auston can see Mitch trembling as if he's cold.

He feels like he's leading a lamb to slaughter, even though he knows that this is Mitch's choice. But he wants to grab him and run away with him to a place where he can date Mitch and Mitch doesn't have to lie.

"My mom's watching," Mitch interrupts Auston's thoughts. "So I can't say goodnight like I want to."

But despite these words, Mich raises himself onto his tiptoes and presses a shy, innocent kiss onto Auston's cheek. It's probably less than a heartbeat but it's enough to make Auston's toes curl and his fingers tingle with the need to pull Mitch against his body.

The kiss lingers on his skin like the lion tattoo on his upper arm, warm and prickling and Auston knows he will take it home with him. Knows that it will be the last thing he remembers before falling asleep and the first he thinks of waking up in the morning.

__

"Guess who I saw this morning?"

The words are muffled because Auston is headfirst under the hood of Mrs. Dubas' convertible and all he can see from the speaker are naked calves and sock-less feet in sneakers. But he would recognize those legs and that voice everywhere.

He also immediately knows what Marty is talking about—or rather who. So he doesn't reply; he just hums and continues removing the spark plugs and cleaning the connections. From the corner of his eye, he can see another pair of legs approaching. Nate bows down and hands him a mug of coffee. The scent is strong and rich enough to weaken the smell of grease, dirt and metal that surrounds Auston.

It's not enough to chase away the slight headache and hangover from the night before but he knows that nothing probably can.

"Not sure if he's already awake, he hasn't said more than two sentences the whole morning," Nate leans against the hood next to Marty and throws shade over Auston's workspace. "But I assume this has something to do with who you saw this morning and a particular date yesterday. Right, Tony?"

Auston takes a sip of the coffee and closes his eyes while he pretends to focus on the task on his hands even though it hardly requires his full attention; he could do it in his sleep. "I think it has more to do with Jasmine's party last night and the fact that you're letting me do all the work alone, but sure."

"Now, that sounds bitter," Marty laughs. He brings his foot up against the wing and Auston wants to snap at him for dirtying the bright red varnish. But he will have to wash and polish it anyway, and all three of them know it so it's futile.

"Anyway… I saw Mitch this morning on his way to the public library."

Nate snorts. "Someone as pretty as him shouldn't waste his time studying on a Saturday morning."

Secretly Auston agrees, but he rather has Mitch going to the library this morning than hear he's getting breakfast with another one of his many suitors like so often before.

"It's a shame indeed," muses Marty, too. "But guess what was so interesting about him?"

Auston rolls his eyes and from the annoyance in Nate's voice, he knows that he's rolling his eyes at their friend, too.

"Cut to the point, Marty. It's a slow morning but unlike other people here we still have work to do."

"Funnily enough, I am the only one around who's actually working." Auston interjects.

Of course, Nate ignores his remark, but at least he hands him the small screwdriver that he needs. It's already about ninety degrees and sweat is blossoming on his neck and forehead. Auston sighs inaudibly and wipes it away before it can drip into his eyes.

"Well, the interesting thing was that I couldn't spot any hickeys or bruises on sweet Mitchy, neither on his neck or throat. And he wasn't wearing a scarf or anything to cover them up."

"Maybe you didn't check thoroughly enough?"

"I talked a little to him and yes, I'm pretty sure." Marty's tone can only be described as gloating. Auston grinds his teeth and then counts slowly to ten. A part of him wants to snap at his friend, but he knows that won't get him anywhere and would only make it worse.

"So he didn't even take Mitch on a date?"

"Oh, he did. I saw them at Jumbo's. But he can't have made a lasting impression."

Okay, enough is enough. Auston grabs a cloth to wipe his hand and stands up.

"Trust me, I made a lasting impression." For a second he's tempted to tell them about the date; about dinner and the things he and Mitch talked about. About the drive to the sunset spot and how Mitch looked so happy and pretty that Auston couldn't take his eyes off him. About the kisses they shared that still make Auston's lips tingle and his heart flutter.

But he stops himself. These moments were only his and Mitch's. They are his only memory of that date and he doesn't like the idea of sharing them, of letting his two idiot friends walk over them, of tarnishing them.

"Well, not where it counts."

Marty's smirk is triumphant. He's still leaning against the car, arms folded in front of his chest. Auston can't see his eyes because of his pretentious Aviator glasses he's always wearing because he thinks they make him look cool. They do, but they also make him look like a spoiled brat who never worked a day in his life because his dad is the mayor of this lame-ass town.

"Maybe that's only because I didn't want to get him into trouble with his parents."

They both burst out in laughter, cackling so loud that Auston's glad Patty's already left for lunch. But he gets it—he wouldn't believe himself either.

(Auston Matthews hesitating to kiss his date? Auston Matthews not pulling through? Auston Matthews risking to lose a bet and money because of the consequences for someone else?)

"Oh, god," Nate mimics wiping his eyes. "That's… that's actually good. I have to give you that. I think that would make a good headline for the Sun. 'Auston Matthews refuses to kiss his date and loses a hundred bucks—because he cared."

Marty who has just gotten himself under control, starts to laugh again as if Nate's joke was the funniest thing ever. Auston's torn between punching them both and ignoring them because they are really idiots and he knows the truth.

"You know what also would make a good headline?"

All three spin around at the new voice that is speaking. They hadn't noticed a car stopping in front of the shop or steps approaching but maybe they have been too distracted.

"'Guy taking revenge on the three guys who humiliated him."

Mitch is standing in the open entrance of the garage, dressed impeccably in a pair of jeans and one of his soft pink polos. He looks so clean and out of place in these gritty and dirty surroundings, looks exactly as pretty as he did last night that Auston isn't sure if he's imagining him or not like his mind did tonight in his dreams.

But Nate and Marty are staring, too, mouths open, so Auston knows Mitch is real. Carefully rounding some spilled oil and sawdust on the concrete floor he approaches them; there's an amused sparkle in his eyes.

"Mitch." Nate stammers.

"That is my name."

"How long…? What have you—"

"Long enough. But don't worry, I knew about the bet before."

Nate and Marty both go pale. It's visible even in the low light of the garage. They both look very embarrassed and Auston almost feels a little bit sorry for them. But not really. He's been at that place last night. They deserve to feel like the assholes they were - they all were - for making a bet like this. Also watching them squirm like this gives him great pleasure after the mockery he had to endure. It's not like he suddenly turned into a good guy.

(Even though Mitch's kisses could possibly do that.)

"What… what are you doing here?" Marty finally asks after Mitch waves off any attempts of a stuttered apology.

Up close he looks even more pretty; the colour of the polo is making his blue eyes stand out and Auston remembers how soft the strands of hair falling into his face felt around his fingers last night. He can't believe he really kissed him.

"Oh, I just came by to have lunch with my boyfriend." Mitch lifts the paper bag he's carrying with the logo of Rielly's Sandwich Corner.

Again Nate and Marty blink in surprise before they turn towards Auston, mouthing 'what the fuck'. Auston just shrugs but can't hold back the grin any longer.

"Told you I made a lasting impression. It may not be on his neck but in his heart… the only place it really counts." He throws the rag he used to clean his fingers into the hood and steps to Mitch, closes the distance between them and bows down to kiss him.