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Side Hug
It was a strange sensation to be landing at the BeanBean airport as visitors and not acting heroes. No attacks, no looming threats, no large, multi-colors Piranha Plants damaging the runway. Just a typical royal social engagement to further build the bond between the two kingdoms.
Not that Luigi was complaining. Any time a trip could just be a trip without something terrible hanging overhead will always be welcomed. The number of beings in this place that had a need to destroy or concur was just ridiculous. Seriously, how many people wanted to rule the galaxy?
Even with no ‘world ending’ issues, Luigi still felt nervous. Eyes on the sea of clouds as the pink plane skimmed over it. Barely taking in the casual conversations Mario and Peach were having. The younger brother’s attention focused on what was making his stomach churn.
When last met, Luigi really thought there was something building between him and the heir to the BeanBean throne, Prince Peasley. Their adventure to said kingdom had the brothers working close to the royal family. Event interaction with the prince seemed solely for Luigi. Getting the yellow (autographed) rose, how Mario’s name slipped from the prince’s mind but he’d say Luigi’s with such joy. Even the conversations involving trying to trick or take down the villain, Luigi truly thought they’d been flirting in some fashion!
That strange yet connecting moment when Luigi had saved Peasley from both an enemy and from being small for the rest of his life. Of Peasley when he tried to catch Luigi as he fell from the airship. The bet, when Peasley made his declaration of winning with eyes blazing focused on the deeply flushed younger brother.
The human wholeheartedly believed there was something, anything , sparking between them. Maybe he’d just been stupidly hopeful. After all, it was rare for Luigi to be treated like Luigi , not just Mario’s younger brother.
That idea came crashing down when Luigi tried a rather daring move. Deciding to try and pull the fair prince into a tight hug. Hoping it wouldn’t turn out terribly. Be given a chance to lay it all out in the open and hope that Peasley wouldn’t reject him.
Except the prince moved. Flew out of Luigi’s reach to deliver a present to the departing group. Casting no further glances to the green-cladded hero.
The younger brother immediately swallowed the hurt and bitterness down. Waving Mario’s worries away. Feeling every fiber of his being screaming in embarrassment.
Of course.
Of course he was wrong. What else did he expect?
Why would royalty lower themselves to date a lowly plumber. (Mario being the clear exception to this rule because it was Mario! Everyone loves him!) So Luigi ended that adventure with his tail between his legs and a shattered heart.
Now, they were returning. Peach and her entourage invited back to the BeanBean Kingdom to be properly shown the sights. It made sense. But that now meant Luigi had to face the prince, who he still had strong feelings towards in his heart. Who clearly didn’t see the human that way. The humiliation of rejection (intentional or not) still burns in his stomach.
Luigi wondered if he was shaking from the plane or his rising nerves.
‘Attention everyone, this is your Captain Toad speaking! …Not of the exploration variety. Just a friendly heads up that we’ll be arriving to the BeanBean Kingdom soon. Please prepare to land!”
Luigi swallowed weakly. A nervous swooping feeling hitting his stomach as the plane tilted downwards. The clouds cleared away to show the land filled with green. Wheels touching down on the sturdy ground soon enough.
The door opened to reveal the large welcoming committee. Beanish citizens lining the way to the royal family. All cheering a greeting as the Mushroom Kingdom party descending said plane with a smile and a wave.
Luigi pointedly stayed in the back of the group.
“Princess Peach!” Queen Bean joyously called out, smile as wide as ever. “It is wonderful to see you again.”
“Thank you for extending an invitation back to your wonderful kingdom.” Peach responded.
“Of course. You know any of you are welcome here at any time.”
Luigi remained a few steps away from the group. Watching at Toadsworth was pulled into a lively conversation with Lady Lima. While Mario was content with standing by Peach’s side to merely observe the talk happening between the two royals. Blue eyes traveled around nervously, almost immediately picking up that something was off.
Where was-
“Hello, Luigi.”
The human was a little embarrassed jumping at the sudden voice. Offering a sheepish smile hearing Peasley laugh softly. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.”
“N-No, no, you’re fine!” Luigi attempted to sound casual, “I-I was just wondering where you were.”
“Well…here I am.”
“Yep…”
Even with how awkward this conversation was, Luigi couldn’t help but note how beautiful Peasley was. Vivid green skin seemed to shine as brilliantly as his golden hair. Dressed in a familiar red and white outfit that complimented the prince in every way. Warm brown eyes and soft smile made Luigi’s heart thump painfully.
Yep, he was still crushing on the prince, hard.
Before Luigi could think further on his predicament, he was surprised when Peasley warped an arm around his shoulders. The prince gave them a gentle squeeze with a wink. Small smile turning into a playful smirk.
“Don’t suppose I could interest you in seeing my garden? You weren’t able to view it last time, I think you’ll be impressed.”
“Oh, I would love to!”
“I can show you my latest project as well. Hybrid colored roses.”
“No way, really?”
“You’ll just have to come and see yourself.”
As Luigi and Peasley talked, they were unaware of narrowed eyes that followed them.
Mario hoped his face didn’t give away too much. He was fully aware of Luigi’s attraction to the Beanish prince. Even more so of how crushed his brother felt when he’d been more or less rejected. Mario wasn’t thrilled by the idea of leaving Luigi along with Peasley…
He hadn’t trained his face well apparently. Because Peach reached out and held his hand between her own. Giving a knowing smile when Mario looked over.
“Please pardon Prince Peasley’s previous actions, in regards to your brother,” said Queen Bean, clearly understanding what Mario’s stance currently was. “While personable to his citizens, personal interest is…very new to him.”
Mario merely nodded, giving a weak smile back. Unsure of what he could say in response.
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Friend Hug
The Jungle Kingdom was way more intense than any other kingdom the brother’s had visited. Truthfully, every kingdom had their own dangers. But this one was just…built different.
The biggest part of this was their king, Cranky Kong, who had an absolute obsession with go-karts. Safety immediately going out the window when the walking paths were turned into rickety roads into kart tracks. With no barriers. The karts not having seat belts put in. But the karts could also go upside down. Yeah, safety was not top priority with this place.
The brother’s were surprised to have an invitation addressed to them each, delivered to their small home one morning. Eyes widening realizing it was for the annual go-kart event held in the Jungle Kingdom. Normally, only citizens from said kingdom could compete. Visitors were more than welcome to spectate the event. But never allowed to participate.
“I’m pretty sure DK just wants to try and show me up in some way.” Mari had laughed about it.
“Don’t suppose Peach has a track we could practice on?” Luigi weakly voiced.
“...Couldn’t hurt to ask.”
They were relieved when Peach offered to train them. Offering tips and points on how to handle the different kart styles, the number of different power ups and how they work on the tracks. Allowing them to practice for a long as they wanted on the Mushroom Kingdom’s smaller version.
Even then, Luigi was a little intimidated by his opponents skills when the event started. More so when they saw, up close, how the Kingdom raced. They were ruthless.
So he was a bit surprised that he not only made it to the semi-finals, but he came in second place. Just barely missing the win. His competitors slapped his back and congratulated him. Surprised himself with how closed he’d gotten. But was a little upset knowing he was so close once again and just fell short.
Always second place…
At least he was able to get out of the racing suit. That thing was tight! It kept him safe, but he was warm and uncomfortable.
Now in more civilian style clothing, overalls with a green t-shirt, Luigi was winding his way around the large garage. Either looking for Mario or the stairs that lead to the V.I.P. seating. It was the latter that happened first. But it wasn’t exactly Luigi who found it.
Said door flung open to Luigi’s surprise by a familiar prince running out. “Prince Peasley?”
Peasley turned to hear his name. Eyes lightened upon seeing Luigi, and he rushed over. The human’s instincts took over as Peasley practically launched himself at Luigi. Who caught the other easily. Another bolt of surprise hit, realizing that Peasley was full on hugging him. Arms tightly wrapped around his shoulders.
“You did such a wonderful job! That was amazing! Oh, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time!” Peasley cheered. Arms wrapped around Luigi’s neck. Whose face was beet red. Eventually having his own arms wrapped around the prince.
“W-When did you get here?” Luigi asked, heart fluttering nervously.
“A few hours ago. I was allowed to come to represent the BeanBean Kingdom. This was all so thrilling, a bit more intense than what I was expecting.” Peasley pulled away to smile up at Luigi. Warm eyes crinkled in joy. “I was able to watch all of your races. I’m not technically allowed down here, but I just had to see you!”
“R-Really?” Luigi was sure his face and neck were red.
“Of course, why wouldn’t I? I couldn’t wait to congratulate you!”
Luigi couldn’t help but laugh, Peasley’s eagerness infectious. Their eyes connected once more and something new fell over them. Luigi noticed a faint blue blush appearing on Peasley’s cheeks. The prince’s hands placed on the hero’s shoulders.
“I’m…really glad you came.” Luigi whispered. Surprised that Peasley could hear him given how loud the garage was. But…now that he thought about it, it wasn’t that noisy. It felt as if it was just him and Peasley.
Peasley laughed softly, squeezing Luigi’s shoulders gently. “I am too…”
Luigi wasn’t sure how long they stood there. Lost in their own world. Swearing the space between them was disappearing…
“Luigi!” Mario’s voice cut though. Breaking whatever moment was happening. Luigi looked up as his brother came running over. Peasley easily stepping out of the way just as Mario reached them. Easily lifted his younger brother off the ground.
“Ah- Mario!” Luigi laughed, “What are you doing?”
“I’m celebrating! You did such a good job!”
“I-I came in 2nd place during the semi-finals. Not that impressive.” Now back on his own two feet, Luigi let out a noise of complaint as Mario ruffled his hair. “Mario! Stop it!”
“Only when you admit you did an amazing job!” Mario let out a snort as Luigi did some weird maneuver. Both moving out of the way and grabbing onto the red-cladded hero’s wrists.
“I’m not going bald because of you.”
Peasley had no qualms standing off to the side. Just happy to watch the brothers interact. Head tilted, hand over heart, warm eyes watching Luigi fondly.
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Hugging from Behind
Luigi will never fully understand why he and Mario insisted on wearing overalls practically everywhere they went. Sure they were durable and perfect to fight in. But why did they feel it worked for all situations? Especially on the beach. Why the beach? Short sleeves could only do so much.
The return to Pi’illo Island was far calmer than their first trip. Prince Dreambert was able to have rule over his kingdom once more. Still allowing some areas to be used as a resort/vacation place. Namely, the beach. The sandy area hadn't really been inhabited when the Pi’illos were there the first time, so there was no issue about kicking others out of their homes.
“I’m not super thrilled by all the tourism still,” Dreambert admitted to Peach, “But the money has been helpful, I won’t lie. As well as Dr. Snoozemore has been wonderful with finding more of our lost kingdom.”
Peach gave a sympathetic smile. “Do what you feel comfortable with. If it becomes too much, let me know. I’m on your side, Dreambert, with whatever you decide.”
“Thank you Peach.”
Removing his green cap, Luigi used it to fan himself while he wiped his brow with his other hand. Happy they’d stopped in the shade of a large shop. Holding himself back from grumbling loudly at the steady heat. He looked over at Mario feeling his older brother gently elbow his side.
“We’ll get you a drink in a moment, promise.” Mario whispered.
“Please and thank you.” Luigi said back.
“Think you’ll be okay?”
“I’ll survive.”
“We have opened invitations to other kingdoms already,” Dreambert said, clearly unaware of the brother’s conversation, “I’m hoping to make better connections than what we have now.”
Peach beamed, “Oh, that’s wonderful! Who have you invited so far?”
“Um, let’s see… Princess Daisy, she’s been having a wonderful time. And…who else…”
Luigi couldn’t hold back a loud yelp as arms suddenly wrapped around his waist. Something heavy colliding into his back, kept upright by the same arms. Worry and panic quickly melting away hearing a familiar laugh.
“P-Prince Peasley?”
With another gentle squeeze, the arms were removed. Allowing Luigi to turn around to face the BeanBean prince. Who’s wide smile was brilliant against the bright sun. “Hello to you, Greenie.”
“Wha- You never said in your letters you were visiting here as well!” Luigi felt his own smile growing, heart beating furiously. His mind unhelpfully provided a note on how good Peasley looked, seeming to glow in the sun. The tank shirt not leaving a lot to the imagination.
“I won’t lie, it took me everything to not spill when you said you’d be visiting here as well. But it was worth it to see that charming look of surprise on your face…as well as that beautiful color.” Peasley reached up to playfully tug at Luigi’s cheek.
Not missing the way said cheeks turned a darker shade of red. “I will say though, you’re wearing the wrong hat for this weather. Don’t get me wrong, that green hat is dashing on you. It is your signature. But you need something better. Follow me.”
Luigi, while confused, followed along happily. Pulled towards the same shop Peasley has just left from. Watching at the prince gently whisked off his green cap, replacing it with a wide brimmed sun hat.
“Ah, much better. You should feel a bit cooler with that on. And I’ll hold onto this for the time being.” Easy as ever, Peasley placed the green cap on his head. “How do I look? Suits me pretty well, don’t you think?”
Peasley was clearly just playing, teasing the human. He was even about to suggest finding a way for the human to wear both. Until Luigi spoke up.
“Yeah, it does. The color looks really good on you.” The human’s voice was so sincere, it caused a blue blush to appear on the prince’s cheeks.
“Flatterer, aren’t you.” Peasley shyly said. He froze when the cap was moved.
Luigi offered a smile as he settled the green cap better onto the prince’s head. “There, that’s better.”
He wasn’t sure what possessed him, it had been just a sudden burst of bravery. Luigi reached out to brush a thumb along Peasley’s cheek. Following the path the deep blush made. There was brief eye contact, both clearly surprised by what was happening.
“S-Sorry!” Luigi blurted out, bringing his hand down straight at his sides.
“N-No, no, you’re fine! Um…” Peasley cleared his throat, “I-I don’t suppose your group would mind if I tagged along with?”
“I-I should be fine, y-yeah.”
“Okay…”
Luigi caught slight movement, noticing Peasley’s hand twitch forward before stilling at his side again. Pulling from his bravery reserves, he reached forward slowly. Faltering back when Peasley looked up. But the prince didn’t step away. Instead meeting Luigi’s hand between them. Both were a little unsure of how much they were supposed to take.
Peasley eventually decided that looped pinkies would work just fine.
“I think they forgot we were right here.” Peach whispered, holding back her laughter.
“I wasn’t aware Luigi was dating anyone.” Dreambert quietly commented.
Mario quickly suppressed a snort. “He’s not…they aren’t.”
“Oh… Are they aware of that?”
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Bear Hug
Sometimes, being a hero was really not what it was cracked up to be. Dangerous and terrifying ordeals that had someone facing ‘End-of-the-World’ odds on someone else who wants you dead.
It was a common sight to see the brothers carrying heavy and numerous physical scars after each battle. Mushrooms only able to do so much before the damage becomes too severe.
That wasn’t even touching upon the mental wounds they carried.
This battle was no different from previous. The brother arriving back to the Mushroom Kingdom, limping. Both leaning against the other to try and keep each upright. The path up to the large castle seemed like an impossibility.
Upon opening the door, all conversation fell quiet. Eyes darting over to the barley functioning heroes.
There was a familiar cry of “Mario! Luigi!” from Princess Peach. Said royalty running down to meet them. Shining eyes on the brothers with fear and worry clearly seen.
Luigi took his hug with a smile and held back winces. Limping away slightly so Peach could fully embrace his brother. Hearing soft whispers of assurances coming from Mario. No doubt trying to downplay the damage dealt to them in comparison to how terrible they looked.
“Luigi…”
The younger brother snapped his head around hearing a fearful voice he wasn’t expecting. Prince Peasley standing before him with a look of absolute horror on his rather pale face.
Almost instantly, Luigi tried to stand a little straighter, tucking away his exhaustion. Offering a wobbly smile. “P-Prince Peasley, w-what… I-I didn’t know you were visiting.”
“...Princess Peach told me you and Mario had left to settle a dispute.” Peasley sounded so small.
“Oh, yeah, w-we did. Discussion became a little…physical. But we’ve handled worse.”
“This is not ‘worse’? How severe have you been…”
“I-I just mean that- You don’t have to worry, M-Mario and I are used to this.” Luigi faltered as Peasley strode forward with purpose. The human fearful for a moment that he was about to get hit.
Only to have Peasley’s arms wrapped around him tightly. The prince burying his face into Luigi’s chest. Who realized the prince was shaking. Peasley desperately clutching onto the back of the overalls.
“Peasley-”
“I’m not used to this.”
Luigi felt his shoulders drop, arms wrapping around the prince as tightly as he could. Head gently resting on top of Peasley’s. “Sorry…”
Peasley shook his head. “Just…don’t lie to me.”
“I didn’t want you to worry.”
“Well, you did.”
“S-Sorry…”
They shifted, still holding onto each other tightly. Luigi’s forehead tucked into the crook of Peasley’s neck. The prince’s own pressed onto the top of Luigi’s shoulder.
“‘M not mad.” Peasley whispered.
“You sure? You sound it.” Luigi smiled hearing Peasley’s laugh.
“Okay, I’m a little mad. But you’ve never told me… I didn’t know you could… You look horrible.”
“Oh, well, thanks. I was feeling stunning until you said that.”
“Stop, you know what I mean.”
“Yeah, I know… I just didn’t want you to worry.”
“We are far past that. I mean, I know we saw each other after that Bowletta catastrophe. But…Grambi above, you scared me Luigi. You look like you’re close to death.”
“I feel like it.”
“Not funny.”
“Sorry.”
“I’ll forgive you, if you promise to be honest with me about…all of this.”
Luigi let out a heavy sigh before nodding. “Yeah, okay…”
“I can handle this.”
“...Okay.”
“I promise.”
“Okay.”
They pulled back slightly, Peasley reaching up to gently cup the human’s cheeks. Pulling Luigi close to allow their foreheads to press together. “Okay.”
A cleared throat caused them to look over, finding the entire hall was watching them. Mario’s mustache twitching in quiet joy while Peach giggles.
“How about we get these two to the medical wing?” The princess suggested with a smile.
Cheeks aglow with blue, Pleasley nodded quietly. Purposefully reaching out to take Luigi’s hand and followed Peach as she led the way. Face a deep red, Luigi’s eyes darted down to their connected hands, a small smile forming. Moving his hand so their fingers were intertwined. Peasley stoic face falling to a soft smile as well. Neither able to look at the other.
Peach and Mario smiling knowingly.
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+1 Hugging Around the Waist
Peasley felt like he was going to throw up.
He’d never felt this nervous before.
With the approach of an annual BeanBean celebration, Peasley had extended an invitation to Princess Peach and the brothers. Thrilled to announce that this was the first time he would be hosting and wanted his friends to be in attendance. A time to celebrate the changing of the seasons and the kingdom’s first big harvest. A rather major event, a festival more than anything.
A perfect place to make some rather heartfelt confessions.
Even with all the times they had held hands, swapped letters, stayed up late into the night talking about anything, Peasley was still slightly fearful that he was gleaming too much into all of this. After all, when Luigi had attempted, Peasley reacted…negatively. Not because he didn’t like the hero, but because the prince had become vulnerable around Luigi. In a way he’d not expected. In a way that Peasley was not used to.
It took a few nights and discussions with his mother to understand what he was feeling. And how he’d possibly just lost his opportunity when the brothers left the first time.
Still, he had to take this chance. Rebuilding the relationship he wanted to have until he felt he’d reclaimed what he lost. With day passing filled with double checking that everything was set up and perfect.
If Luigi said no, it wasn’t going to be because Peasley was underprepared.
When the day finally arrived, Peasley was sick with panic. Trying to put on a brave face in hopes of giving nothing away. Even as his mother’s and Lady Lima’s smirk said otherwise.
Peasley tried to remain professional as they greeted the Mushroom Kingdom representatives. Only for it to break as quickly as Luigi broke away from the approaching group. Ignoring Toadsworth’s cries to remain professional as he pulled Peasley into a tight hug. The prince beaming, the nervousness churning in his stomach seeming to disappear.
Arriving to the castle proper, Peasley was able to pull Luigi away from the group. Saying he wanted to show the younger brother something important. Luigi unbothered as he was led down an unfamiliar hallway. Hand in hand with Peasley, who was nervously quiet while Luigi chatted away.
“Are you okay?” Luigi’s question jolted Peasley from his nervous thoughts.
“Oh, um, yes! Why do you ask?”
“...You’re shaking.”
Peasley tried to swallow his nerves down. Feeling heat travel up his neck. They were outside the double doors where Peasley’s surprise was set up. Facing Luigi, who had his head tilted to the side in confusion, the Beanish prince let out a slow sigh.
“I…wanted to show you something. It’s…important to me…”
“O-Okay?”
Giving Luigi’s hand a squeeze for comfort, Peasley opened the doors.
He smiles softly hearing Luigi let out a soft gasp. Peasley had truly outdone himself, if he said so himself. The balcony overlooked the wide, beautiful garden. Banner and pillars filled with lush, vivid green foliage and familiar yellow roses spotted around the area. An ornate glass table was placed in the center.
Resting on it was a large flower crown. Yellow and white roses woven together, small stems of white flower puffs poking out with large green leaved vines filling the spaces. All of it gleaming as if they were jewels. Peasley’s heart was hammering as Luigi admired it all. Stepping forward when the hero was fully focused on the crown.
“This is amazing!” Luigi beamed, “But…um, what’s all of this for?”
“It’s…tradition.” Peasley started. Removing the crown from the table and turning towards Luigi. Who looked a little confused. “When someone wants to… Well, um, how do I say this? If we wish to court someone, we offer a crown woven together by our own hands as a sign of prosperity in the new relationship. It’s also a way to show off what the family’s best product is. Kind of a way to show off.”
“E-Either way, I’m getting a little off topic,” Peasley let out a slow sigh before holding the crown out further towards Luigi. “I, Prince Peasley, present to you a courtship crown of my prized roses. I ask for your hand in building a strong and healthy relationship. While it is a seed now, I hope we can create a sturdy growth. Do you…accept?”
.
.
.
Why wasn’t Luigi saying anything?
Opening his eyes, Peasley worried seeing how flushed and nervous the human looked. “Are you okay? I’m sorry, was this too much? You don’t have to agree-”
“NO!” Both were a little startled at how loud Luigi’s response was. The human even covered his mouth for a moment before whispering, “I’m just…confused…”
“...About?”
“Well, I…I thought we were already dating?”
Peasley felt as if his heart was going to explode with joy and relief. Letting out a bit of a shaky laugh. “Ah, my apologies for not doing this sooner. Do you accept?”
Luigi beamed. “Absolutely.”
The human bent down slightly to allow Peasley to place the crown on his head. Said crown wide enough to be placed over the green cap, but not enough to slide down. Luigi practically glowed as he reached up to gently run his fingers along the pedals. Soon reaching out to wrap his arms around Peasley’s waist. The prince stepped closer and followed the same action.
Forehead gently touched, both staring into the other’s eyes as a sense of peace fell around them. Peasley surprised by welcoming to the pair of lips that softly claimed his. The kiss was soft and slow. A clear promise of what was to come for their future.
Peasley swears he’s never heard the BeanBean Kingdom cheer so loudly as when Luigi entered the evening celebration wearing the crown. Arm and arm with said prince, the green suit Luigi was wearing complimenting the flower crown well.