Chapter Text
Pearl watched longingly as Rose danced, as elegant and graceful as ever. Unbidden, a smile reached her eyes, as it always did when she watched Rose. Perfect and beautiful, at once wild and precise…everything about her drew Pearl in, smothering her in her presence until she almost couldn't breathe…not that she needed to, of course, but Rose had taken a liking to poetry and flowery language in the last few centuries, and Pearl supposed some of it was rubbing off on her.
The smile faded as she watched Rose beckon Garnet and Amethyst over. They joined her cheerfully, laughing in celebration. The four of them had only just returned from a rather dangerous mission, and as always Rose found joy in the smallest things. How many missions had they been on over the years? Still, her enthusiasm never faded, no more than Pearl's love for her did.
Rose met her eyes, and her smile widened. "Come on!" She laughed. "Join us, Pearl!"
Pearl tried to return her smile, but it never reached her eyes. Once, she wouldn't have needed to ask. Once, Pearl would have been the first she asked to dance with her. The only one she danced with.
It was childish of her to feel so petty…but she missed those early years, when it was just the two of them. Alone on earth, living out a fantasy…
But things were so different now. She had thought that after the war, things might become different, that she and Rose might…might become…something more.
Millenia had passed them by, and nothing changed. Not for her at least. Rose had plenty of loves, as brief and fleeting as the humans she cared for, but they never bothered Pearl before. One day, she would think. One day, Rose would see her. Rose would choose her…
Only, the day never came. Six thousand years on earth, nearly four thousand years before that…and nothing.
She was fine with that, or at least she told herself she was. She didn't serve Rose with the expectation that she would return her feelings…but after so many years of being pushed to the sidelines, she couldn't help but feel…rejected. Humans were enough for her, but Pearl wasn't?
Pearl had given everything to Rose, and would do it again in a heartbeat. She wasn't shallow enough that her loyalty depended on Rose's love…but that did not mean she was unaffected. She sighed, turning away from the others. "I think I'll walk the beach," She said.
Rose waved, ignorant of her inner turmoil. "Have fun!"
Pearl walked away, wincing when she heard Rose laughing with the others.
She just needed some time alone, that was all. This was far from the first time Pearl had felt so…conflicted. A bit of time away would do wonders for her, and when she returned, it would be like nothing ever happened.
For now though, she walked the Beach in quiet contemplation. Rose…
Was it her fault? Was she not good enough to catch Rose's eye? Oh what am I saying, of course I'm not! She was a Pearl, nobody special…a copy-pasted servant made to obey her master, nothing more.
A quiet, logical voice in her head told her that she had no master, not for a long time…but Pearl was feeling bitter, and elected to ignore that voice, at least for tonight. Later she would see reason, but for now…now she chose to stew.
Nothing special. Amethyst was an anomaly. Garnet was a miracle, but Pearl…she was boring. And Rose hated boring. That's what the humans had that she didn't…they're lives were short, uneventful things, but they were unique, every one of them.
As for her…what made her unique? That she was a renegade? Was she even that, really? All she had ever done was follow her Diamonds orders…she was barely a proper Crystal Gem.
She stopped walking, clutching her arms and hanging her head as she tried to fight back tears. She knew none of it was true, she knew Rose didn't really believe any of that…but that didn't stop her from thinking it. And it didn't stop her from hurting.
She almost decided to go back to the Temple, to lock herself away in her room until her dark mood had passed…when she heard the strangest sound.
Music. On the beach.
Curious, she walked toward the source. As the noise grew louder, she noticed a small stage had been erected on the Beach, with dozens of empty chairs ordered neatly in front of it. A van was parked beside the stage, but aside from that the Beach was empty.
Well, aside from that and the man who was playing, of course.
He was Human, naturally. A younger specimen, but not one of their…ugh, children. Outside of that, she had no idea how to tell how old he was. Humans confused her, and this one…this one confused her more than the rest.
He was playing some sort of stringed instrument, which she recognized as a strange kind of guitar…weren't those supposed to be bulky and brown? Why was his so small and thin? And didn't humans typically play music…in front of people? She was sure that was one of their customs…
The music he played puzzled her. It wasn't anything like those gentle records Rose had shown her a few years ago, there was no piano or orchestra. Only the funny little human and his guitar.
His guitar that was making noises she didn't entirely hate.
Out of curiosity, she sat down, and by coincidence he launched into the next song, strumming away. "Some," He began, "Say I have no direction," She frowned. "That I'm a lightspeed distraction…but that's a knee jerk reaction."
"Still," He continued. "This is the final frontier. Everything is so clear. To my destiny, I steer."
The music picked up, and a shiver ran down her spine as he kept singing. "This life in the stars is all I've ever known," Something tugged at Pearl in familiarity. "Stars and stardust and infinite space is my only home…"
The song reached a crescendo, but by then Pearl wasn't paying much attention to the rest of the lyrics. She was still swept up in the music itself, and the first few verses that had stuck with her.
It…it reminded her of…well, her.
What purpose did she have now that Pink Diamond didn't exist? What was her use if Rose didn't want her? She had no direction, or at least thought she didn't.
And the way he sang of space…as if he had actually been there…oh, how it made her miss the stars! A genuine smile crossed her face as she tuned back into his singing.
"This life I chose isn't easy, but sure is one heck of a ride,"
Her smile deepened. "It sure isn't," She muttered to herself. It was ridiculous…obviously the Human wasn't singing about her, he didn't even know who or what she was…
But…but it felt good to pretend. That she mattered enough, that she was important enough for some random human to sing about. She'd lived the last six thousand years waiting for a fantasy that would never come…surely a few more minutes pretending wouldn't hurt?
"Crash like a comet…I'm just a comet," The mysterious man sang as the music came to an end.
At once she stood to her feet, clapping her hands together giddily.
"Thanks for coming out tonight, everybody!" The man said into the microphone. "My name's Mr. Universe, and if you like more of what you just heard, my manager Marty will be over there with some merchan-oh…he's not there right now. Well, I guess I'll go over."
He walked over to the small table piled with t-shirts and tiny plastic cartridges, taking a seat.
Pearl found herself going over to the table despite herself, almost as if she were compelled. Her eyes fell on one of the cartridges, and on the title. "Space Train to the Cosmos…" She read aloud with a puzzled look.
"Uh-huh!" The man, Mr. Universe grinned. "One way ticket, and I'm ready to ri-ide!"
Pearl snorted, covering her mouth with her hand. This human…was certainly interesting. "Do the stars really interest you so much?" She asked.
"How could they not!" He exclaimed. "I mean, just imagine…leaving all this behind and going out into space, nothing but the stars and the galaxy to keep you company. No responsibility, no judgement…just a place where you can be free."
Pearl smiled indulgently. "I certainly wouldn't say space is free of judgement or responsibility…" She glanced up to look at the night sky, and frowned, finding herself holding the cartridge closer to her chest. "But you are surprisingly insightful. I'd love nothing more than a chance to go out in the stars again, even once…"
"Hey, do you want that CD?" He asked, pointing to the cartridge. "You can have it! Oh, and it comes with a free t-shirt." He frowned. "I think these'll be a bit too big for you though. I think I have an extra small in the van, just wait right here!"
She watched as he hurried out of his chair and over to the van, then sighed. "What are you doing, Pearl?" She said to herself. She'd had her moment of self-pity, but it had to pass. She had a responsibility to Rose and the rest of the Crystal Gems. As…surprisingly interesting as Mr. Universe was, he was a human. The only thing her staying would accomplish would be confusing the poor man.
She turned, walking back to the Temple the way she came…
…all the while clutching the CD he had given her tightly in her hand.
"Pearl, you're back!"
She cringed inside, looking down. She'd hoped to avoid this. "H-Hello, Rose."
Rose frowned, sensing her mood. "Are you okay? What's wrong?"
Pearl shook her head, managing a weak smile. "Nothing's wrong," She lied. "I only wanted to stargaze a little, that's all." She tried to walk past her to the Temple door. "I think I'll go meditate for a little while. Let me know if you need anything-"
Rose caught her arm as she passed her. "...What's that?" She asked, raising Pearl's hand…which still held Mr. Universe's CD.
"Oh!" Pearl squeaked in surprise. "That's, er…nothing really, just a little something I found on the beach. Honestly, I should really get-"
"Yo Rose, P!" Amethyst came flying towards them in the form of an owl, perching on Rose's arm as she reached out. "You totally need to check this out! There's some long-haired human at the fence, and I think he's asking about Pearl!"
Rose gasped. "What?"
"T-That's impossible!" Pearl sputtered. Mr. Universe? It can't be…
"I'm serious!" Amethyst said. "He said he was looking for a pale, thin lady with a pointy nose and something on her forehead. I guess he doesn't know what a gem is…oh, there he is now!"
What? Pearl and Rose turned to find Mr. Universe standing at the mouth of the Temple's entrance. Pearl blinked, and Amethyst was flying over, already changing shape back to her normal form. Immediately, she began crawling around Mr. Universe, observing him and grabbing his hair.
"It's so soft!" She said in wonder. "Hey, why are you looking for Pearl anyway?"
"Amethyst!" Pearl admonished, pulling her away from Mr. Universe. "You don't just go crawling around touching humans like that! You don't know where they've been…and besides, that's very rude!"
"Pearl?" Mr. Universe said quietly. "Is that your name? Pearl?"
She froze, then swallowed nervously. Why was she nervous? "I…yes. Yes it is."
He grinned, then held out his hand. He was holding something. "Here you go! Free t-shirt, just as I promised!"
"Oh!" Pearl blinked in surprise. "W-Well, that's very generous of you, of course, b-but I'm afraid I…I…"
"Pearl, who is this human?" Rose asked. "And what's he talking about, a promise? You don't…know him, do you?" She was looking at her skeptically.
"No, of course not!" Pearl protested. "But…well…"
"Pearl stopped by to listen to my concert a few minutes ago," Mr. Universe chimed in helpfully, and Pearl winced. Oh dear…
"She what?!" Rose and Amethyst exclaimed in unison.
"Oh man, I wish Garnet were here…" Amethyst chuckled.
Rose frowned, crossing her arms. "Are you sure you're talking about our Pearl? That doesn't sound like her. Going out to a rock show, talking with a human…"
"Are you kidding?" He laughed. "How could I mistake her for anyone else?" He smiled at her. "I don't think I don't think I could forget her if I tried, not for the rest of my life."
Pearl reddened, and behind her she heard Rose begin to giggle. "It certainly seems you know how to make an impression, Pearl," She teased. "Say, what's your name Human?"
"Greg Universe, future rock star!" He introduced himself confidently.
"Ooo, you're some kind of music man!" Amethyst laughed. "Can you play something?"
"You aren't one yet?" Rose asked innocently.
Greg chuckled awkwardly. "I'm sort of still building a following right now…but I've got a show in Empire City coming up, and that's almost guaranteed to get me some kind of traction." He suddenly paled, his eyes widening. "Oh crap! I have a show in Empire City!" He looked around frantically. "What time is it?"
Pearl frowned. "Er…night time?"
"I gotta go, my manager's probably waiting for me," He nearly ran off without another word, but stopped just at the edge of the hill the Temple was situated on. He turned back and flashed her a smile. "I hope the stars align for us to meet again someday!"
Pearl blinked wordlessly, still stunned by the entire situation in the first place. He left without giving her a chance to respond, leaving her standing there awkwardly holding a shirt in her hand.
"So what's that guy's deal?" Amethyst interrupted.
"Amethyst, could you do me a favor?" Rose asked. "I think I left one of the gems we bubbled back on the island. Do you mind going back and checking for me?"
"Huh?" Amethyst frowned. "You sent them both to the chamber as soon as they were bubbled, I saw you-"
"Amethyst," Rose said again. "Would you mind just checking?"
The youngest gem glanced between her and Rose, a look of understanding crossing her face. "Right, sure thing. I gotcha Rose." She giggled as she walked away, and seconds later Pearl heard the sound of the Warp Pad activating.
Which means that any second now…
"Pearl?" Rose asked, causing Pearl to sigh. Here we go. "Who was that Mr. Universe man?"
"Exactly who he said he was, I assume," She shrugged, trying to seem nonchalant. "A musician of some kind who was playing on the beach. I happened across him as I was walking, and…overheard some of his material. He must have gotten it into his head that I was more interested than I was, but that's all there is to it, I'm afraid."
Rose smiled mischievously at her. "Pearl," She drawled teasingly. "Are you sure that's it?"
Pearl blushed. "Of course! What else could there possibly be?"
"Pearl, the idea of you speaking to a human, much less listening to a human concert, is practically a miracle all on its own," Rose said flatly. "Then this human comes chasing after you just to give you a free t-shirt? There has to be a story there. At least a small one."
Pearl stammered nervously. "Honestly Rose, you're blowing this whole thing out of proportion…"
Rose placed a hand on her shoulder, and Pearl froze at the touch, cherishing the feeling. "Pearl," She said, and she nearly swooned at the trust in her voice. "You've kept so many of my secrets for so long…don't you think you can trust me with this? Especially if it's as small as you say it is?"
"I…" She swallowed dryly. "I admit, his music was…more interesting than I would have thought." She smiled fondly at the memory. "He sang about the stars, Rose. And the way he sang, it was like he had actually been there…nonsense, of course, but still."
She looked away, unable to meet Rose's eyes for a reason she couldn't explain. "And…it sounds ridiculous, I know…but for a moment, I could almost think he was singing about…about me."
Pearl turned from Rose, clutching one of her arms. "I-I know it's vain of me to think, but…it was nice, to think that. To think some…some human thought so highly of me, even though he didn't even know me…"
She turned back around, and was surprised to find Rose looking at her in wonder of all things. She was grinning. "Isn't that beautiful?" Rose asked giddily. "Oh I just knew you would fall in love with human music…although I admit, you surprised me. I didn't think rock and roll would be your thing…"
"E-Excuse me?" Pearl stammered.
"Pearl, it isn't vain of you to see yourself in Mr. Universe's song," Rose laughed. "That's the point of human music, or at least it can be. It's wonderful that you saw yourself in his music, and I'm glad you found it enjoyable. And besides…" Rose grinned. "If he didn't know you then, he certainly does now."
"I'm sorry," Pearl apologized sheepishly. "I…I let myself get distracted, it won't happen again."
At once, Rose's face fell. "What? No, Pearl, that's not what I meant! It isn't the end of the world if you have fun every once in a while…we protect the earth. It isn't it only fair that we get to enjoy it once in a while?"
"Yes, but…but…"
"But what?" Rose pressed.
"But it isn't my place!" Pearl blurted, then clasped her hands to her mouth.
Rose blinked in surprise. "...What are you talking about?"
"I…Rose, I shouldn't act like this," She said. "The only reason I was even there for the concert to begin with was because I was acting like a fool." Because I was jealous.
Rose rushed forward, wrapping her arms around her. Pearl squeaked in surprise, and Rose hugged her tighter. "Don't ever apologize for how you feel, Pearl," She told her. "Not ever. Do you remember when we first came down to earth?"
She flushed in embarrassment at the memory. "Of course…" She muttered.
"We left Homeworld for so many reasons," Rose said. "Not least of all because we weren't allowed to feel what we felt. The earth is our home, our sanctuary…I don't ever want you to think you can't be free to feel whatever you want here, whether it's beautiful, or embarrassing, or immature."
Pearl smiled. "Thank you, Rose," She said as she pulled away.
Rose smiled back. "Of course. Now tell me, really…what do you think of that Mr. Universe?"
She rolled her eyes. "You're still on that?"
"What?" Rose asked, batting her eyelashes. "It just seemed like you had a fun time, is all. I like seeing you enjoy yourself, Pearl."
"Yes, well, it doesn't really matter now, does it?" Pearl shrugged. "I enjoyed his little show while he was here, but you heard the man. He has other places to be, other obligations to fulfill…" She frowned. "As do I. In all likelihood, we'll never see each other again."
Rose's eyes glimmered with a strange light. "Maybe not…but you never know. The universe can be a strange thing, and earth has got to be the strangest planet of them all. You never know what can happen in a place like this…maybe Mr. Universe was right. Maybe the stars will align after all…"
Pearl snorted derisively. "I sincerely doubt it." She turned, waving goodbye to Rose. "But if it amuses you to fantasize, then don't let me stop you. I'm going to practice my form if you need me."
"Have fun, Pearl!" Rose called one last time, and a moment later Pearl stepped into the solitude of her room.
She sighed, allowing her posture to drop. Today…today had been tiring. In more ways than one. Still, it wasn't all terrible…if nothing else, her mood had passed. She didn't blame Rose anymore than she blamed the sun for setting, or the rain for choosing to fall. Pearl couldn't help loving her, and Rose couldn't help loving everything. It was simply the way of things.
And…perhaps, alone in the sanctity of her room…she could admit at least part of what had helped her was listening to Mr. Universe's concert. He really was quite good, if she were being honest with herself. She was almost disappointed she'd only caught the one song.
Well…she did have one of those CD things. Surely it couldn't be that hard to find something to play it?
Pearl held out the shirt he had given her, scrutinizing it. The graphic was simple, but charming in its own way.
"Hm.." She hummed to herself. "I wonder if it fits…?"
Greg frowned, fiddling with a tuning peg. Try as he may, he couldn't get that strange woman and her friends out of his head.
Pearl…
They were amazing. Magical, literally. Shapeshifting into a talking owl, was crazy enough, but apparently they were ancient rock people made of light? That was awesome!
And Pearl…Pearl was something else. It wasn't rare for at least a couple people to show up to his shows, but he'd pretty much given up hope that night. He'd played through almost an entire set to no one but the sand and the sea…at least, not until the final song.
He hadn't noticed her until she started to clap, he was so caught up in the performance, but when he did he couldn't look away. She just looked so…otherworldly. Like some sort of ethereal space goddess, and when she spoke it felt like nothing else in the universe mattered.
"I'm telling you, Vidalia's friends were really something," Marty chuckled. "You missed out on a lot of fun, Greg. I'm surprised anyone knew how to throw a party in that backwater town…"
"Hey, I met some crazy people too!" Greg said. "There were these Gem ladies made up of beams of light…"
"Save the poetry for Empire City," Marty said, then frowned. "Oh great," He muttered from behind the wheel as he tried to get the radio to play. "What, are you shoving coins in there or something you weirdo? These things are expensive, Universe." He sighed. "Long way to Empire City…play me something Star Child."
Greg thought for a moment, then gripped his guitar and began to play. "Do you believe in destiny? Close your eyes, and leave the rest to me," He sang. "Do you believe in fantasy-"
"Snore!" Marty interrupted loudly with a groan. "What are you doing, you're gonna put people to sleep if you try playing that at the show. Where's this schlock coming from?"
"Hey, I can't help it!" Greg protested. "I just can't get that woman out of my head…"
"Here we go," Marty sighed. "Alright, let me hear it. How tall was she?"
"Huh?" He blinked in confusion. "Well, she was kind of tiny actually…"
"Really?" Marty sounded surprised. "I guess you got bored of having a type, huh?"
"What's that supposed to-"
"Look Star Child," Marty cut him off. "Do you have any idea where we're going? Empire City, the greatest city on earth! Who cares about some small town girl at the beach? You want girls? There'll be plenty once we get to the city, you'll have your pick once your album takes off and we're raking in the cash."
"Ugh," Greg scrunched up his face in disgust. "You know those women are people too, right?"
"Look, just put that girl out of your mind," Marty told him. "Once we get to the show, you'll forget all about her before long."
"And what if I don't wanna go?" He muttered.
"Excuse me?"
"I said, what if I don't want to go!" Greg said, louder. How long were they gonna go from town to town, playing to empty shows while Marty poached almost all of the little money they did bring in?
He never cared about the money, so it had never bothered him. He thought putting on these shows had been his purpose, so he never had a problem with being the only one he was playing for…but after meeting Pearl, he wasn't so sure what his purpose was anymore.
Marty turned around furiously. "You're gonna give up on your dreams for some mysterious lady you didn't even know before tonight? What happened to becoming the biggest rock star in the world? That isn't going to happen sitting back in some backwater town. We have plans, Greg, we can't just-"
"Look out!" Greg yelled as a pair of headlights suddenly appeared. Marty swerved at the last minute, spinning the van out and throwing them both back in their seats.
What am I even doing here? He thought in between panted breaths. They had almost just died…and what would he have accomplished?
To his surprise, in that moment, it wasn't the idea that he would never become famous that bothered him the most. It was the idea that he could have died just then, with nothing but a few brief words spoken to that strange, magical woman.
He blinked, everything suddenly falling into place. It seemed so obvious now…
"Get out of my van," He said calmly.
"Huh? Star Child-"
"I said, get out of my van!" Greg yelled, pushing Marty out of the door like he should have done months ago. In seconds he'd turned the van around, leaving Marty behind cursing at him as he drove back to Beach City.
Strangely, he didn't feel any sense of loss. He was giving up on Empire City, on Marty, on any real chance of ever making it big…
But then, wasn't he trading it all for a chance at something even better?
In his eyes, it was a more than fair trade off.
He hurried back to the beach as fast as he could, jumping over the fence and running up the hill to where he had found her again. His face fell as he crested the top of the hill, only to find himself completely alone.
"That's fine," He said to himself. "No big deal. It's not like they were going to just stay out here all night."
He knocked on the only door he saw. "Hey, Pearl? Giant pink-haired lady? Tiny purple owl lady? It's me, Mr. Universe! I can play something for you now!"
No one answered, and Greg resigned himself to waiting for them, however long that would take.
Maybe if I play a little, they'll hear me? There was some kind of raised platform beside him, a pad for him to stand on. "It's no Empire City, but it'll work as a stage," He muttered.
Taking a deep breath, he began to play. "Do you believe in destiny?" He sang again, this time for the audience he had originally hoped to play for. "Close your eyes and leave the rest to me. Do you believe in fantasy? I have to when it's right in front of me."
"What are you doing here….in the real world? What are you doing here? So close I could touch you…What are you doing here?"
He looked down as he finished the song on a quieter note than he intended. "...And what are you doing to me?"
For a moment, nothing happened at all. He had almost decided to lean up against the wall and take a nap until someone came out, when he finally saw a glowing light behind the door.
It began to open, and the woman who unwittingly kept him from leaving stepped through the door. "Mr. Universe…" Pearl sighed. "...what are you doing here?"
"Well that friend of yours did ask me to play…" He chuckled.
Understanding came across her face. "I see…you're playing for Amethyst then. If you give me a moment, I believe I can fetch her…"
"Uh…honestly, I wasn't really playing for her," Greg admitted nervously. "I mean, if you want to go and get her, feel free…but I was really playing for you."
Her eyes shot wide open, and she held a hand to her chest. "Me?" She asked in disbelief. "You were singing that lovely song about me?"
"Who else would It be about?" He countered.
"I don't know!" Pearl sputtered awkwardly, and Greg smiled. She looked adorable when she was caught off guard…"I thought it was about Amethyst, or Rose, or-or some human that you knew…"
"I've never met a human who ever made me write a song like that," Greg said.
"I don't understand…" Pearl shook her head. "Why me? Rose would have made a much stronger impression."
"To tell you the truth, I haven't really thought about your friends too much," He shrugged. "Rose was the big one with giant pink hair, right?" She nodded. "I don't think I could tell you much more than that, not even the color of her eyes. But I haven't been able to get you out of my head since the concert. I don't know about you but…but…" He trailed off, finally noticing she was wearing something new.
"That's…that's my shirt," He said.
Pearl blushed, looking away. "I was told it was rude not to use a gift…" She shook her head, forcing herself to meet his eyes. "Mr. Universe, I'm very flattered you seem to think so highly of me. But I have certain obligations as a Crystal Gem, and besides, didn't you say something about a manager? And a show in Empire City?" She turned away from him. "I wouldn't want you to miss out on something important like that…"
"Oh, I gave all that up."
"You what?" Pearl spun back around in surprise. "But why? You said it was important, didn't you?"
"Well yeah, I guess," He shrugged. "But I thought about what I wanted…and as much as I love putting on shows…I don't know. It just doesn't feel right to me. Maybe it's Marty, or maybe it's something else. All I know is something feels wrong." He smiled. "But when I think about you, about coming back here to Beach City…I don't have any of those doubts."
"But what about me?" Pearl asked, her voice beginning to shake nervously. "That's all well and good for you if you don't have any doubts…but…but what if I do? What if I have no idea how to even begin to know how I feel about…" She gestured vaguely towards him. "...this."
Greg laughed. "Hey, that's fine! You don't need to feel pressured or anything. Whatever does or doesn't happen, I've kind of already made up my mind I wanna stay here. I doubt Marty'll take me to Empire City now even if I did want to go, so I guess it's looking like Beach City is my future now." He grinned. "And if I'm lucky…I hope you'll be in my future too."
"Mr. Universe…" Pearl sighed. "You really have no idea what you're asking. I'm not human. I've lived for thousands of years…I could tell you about everything I've seen for the rest of your life and not get through a fraction of it. Humans…your lives are so short. You should spend them doing something meaningful. Spend them with your own kind, follow your dreams, or wherever else your heart takes you."
"I tried that…" Greg said with a grin. "I took a few wrong turns at the start, but I think I'm back on track. I am following my heart."
"No," Pearl said sharply, and his face fell. "No, I'm sorry…you're really very sweet, and talented of course, but I…I already…" She wiped a tear out of her eye, shuddering. "I'm sorry. Whatever you think it is you want…I can't give it to you. I…I can't make myself happy, much less some strange human."
Greg only chuckled. "Relax a little, alright? You don't need to give me anything. I think you're making this more complicated than this needs to be…" He rested his guitar on his knee. "Let's start simple. I'm sticking around Beach City, so there's no reason not to come and visit sometimes, right?"
Pearl blinked, caught off guard by the sudden change in subject.. "I suppose not…"
"And you said you liked my music, didn't you?" She nodded, and he laughed. "So how about we forget about everything else for a little while…and I just play for you? No other worries, no expectations, nothing but the music and the night sky."
Pearl smiled lightly. "That is rather tempting…" She admitted.
Greg patted the ground beside him. "I'm never going to want you to do anything you don't want to, Pearl, even if I'd personally like things to be different…I just want to see you happy." He grinned. "You've got an amazing smile…"
"I really don't see how this is worth giving up on your 'concerts' for, but I suppose if this is what you want…" Pearl sat down beside him. "...I would be lying if I said I wasn't curious about the rest of your songs."
Greg smiled warmly. He still wasn't sure exactly what it was he'd do next. He'd have to find a new job, and Pearl had made it clear she still wasn't entirely certain how she felt.
But that was alright with him. Even if they never wound up as anything more than friends, he had a feeling being friends with someone like Pearl would be more excitement than a lifetime on the road playing shows.
As he played, her smile gradually widened. Sometimes he would sing a little, but mostly he stuck to calm, quiet instrumentals…it felt weird to sing at a time like this for some reason.
And when she laid her head against his shoulder, the two of them looking up into the stars as he played…he thought that maybe there was a chance after all.
Maybe they could be something more.
I'm aware this…isn't the most popular ship, to say the least. And it's certainly not one I like all that much either. Thankfully, the power of fanfiction means I have basically unlimited power to do whatever, and I thought this would make a cute story. Pearl is my favorite Steven Universe character, and while in CANON this is a terrible idea...this isn't canon.
Really, just the idea of Pearl and all of her insecurity being serenaded by a human who thinks she's the greatest thing in the universe is just adorable. Kinda like Rose, except Pearl somehow has even less self-esteem.
Obviously, Pearl is still in love with Rose in this fic…I won't go too much into detail in case I write another chapter, which isn't currently the plan but is certainly possible…anyways, I have a cool idea for how Pearl and Greg would get together.
The fact is love is messy at times. Pearl can still be in love with Rose, while simultaneously reaching the understanding that she can't keep waiting around for another six thousand years in the hopes that Rose might return her affections. So her relationship with Greg starts as her trying to move on, then gradually turns into something else.
Now that's not covered in this chapter, and like I said I may not continue this…but I'll definitely consider it.
Chapter Text
"Did you see me?" Rose asked giddily. "We were amazing! That poor Agate had no idea what even hit her…"
"I believe you did, my Diamond," Pearl offered happily.
Rose snorted. "Well I know THAT, Pearl. I'm saying that she didn't."
"I see…" Pearl said slowly. "I believe you're right, in that case. Technically speaking, you don't exist. It's impossible for her to have been prepared for you." She frowned. "Although it won't always be like this," She warned. "Already Homeworld's catching on. Word about two renegade Gem's causing disturbances on Earth are starting to spread, and it won't be long before they start looking for an odd Pearl and a Rose Quartz. Now that Garnet's with us too, I'm sure they'll realize she made it to us after that mess a few months ago."
"Then it's a good thing they'll never dare look for Pink Diamond, and her utterly perfect Pearl, isn't it?"
Even though she knew it was an offhand remark, Pearl couldn't help but blush at the compliment. "Y-Yes, my Diamond."
Rose rolled her eyes and groaned. "Pearl…you don't need to call me that when we're alone. You can just call me Rose."
Pearl flinched. "Do I…have to, my Diamond?"
Rose sighed. "You don't have to do anything you don't want to, Pearl. You never will, not with me." She smiled weakly. "Come on. Let's get back to the moon before someone notices we're gone."
Pearl wilted as Rose turned away from her. Of course she would never SAY she was displeased, but Pearl knew when she was disappointed.
It was still…new, to her. Their little arrangement. At first she had simply been too swept up in the excitement to pay it much thought, but now with the full weight of knowing what they were doing…
Going against Homeworld. Against the Diamonds. Against their natures. It was terrifying…and it was exhilarating.
Pink…no, ROSE loved excitement. Adventure. If they were going to do this…if Pearl was going to stay by her side…she couldn't just meekly follow her orders until they were done.
Rose had told her to never stop imagining the things she fantasized about, to never stop feeling the way she felt. And if she were going to stand out…if she was going to have a chance to make her fantasy a reality…she would need to take charge.
"Rose," She called out, causing her to stop.
Rose frowned. "Is something wrong Pearl?"
She smiled. "Wrong…" She shook her head. "I thought so. I thought something had to be wrong with me, at first…it's insanity, what we're doing. And the things I think about…a Pearl shouldn't think such things about a Diamond." She swallowed nervously. "But I don't think I'm just a Pearl anymore. And I don't see Pink Diamond anywhere…all I see is a Rose Quartz."
Something sparkled in Rose's eyes, and she took a step forward. "I…I want to protect the earth," She said. "I want to protect everything that lives here, and every one that calls it home. But mostly, I want to protect you."
Rose blinked in surprise. "Me?"
"For so long, I never dared to even think outside of what I was needed for," Pearl said nervously. "What I was made for. But…you never saw that. You saw me." She paused. "I've…been doing a lot more thinking, recently. About you. About me. About us, and the earth, and the Crystal Gems. I've thought about why we're doing what we're doing, I've thought about how crazy it all is, and how dangerous, and how impossible it seems at times…" She sighed. "But I don't want to think anymore. I just want to act."
Rose frowned. "What do you want to do, Pearl?"
Pearl quickly closed the distance between them, jumping into Rose's arms. Rose stumbled back with a laugh, but Pearl quickly cut her off, cupping her cheeks and covering her lips with her own, just like she saw Rose do with one of those humans.
Rose held her there, though for how long, she couldn't begin to guess. It felt like forever, and it felt like a blink of an eye. Every part of her seemed to burn, out of embarrassment, out of excitement, out of fear…
Rose pulled away from her, and Pearl felt a part of her wither at the loss. Rose didn't look disappointed anymore…she looked almost like she was in shock. No…she looked like she was in awe. She smiled. "Pearl…"
"We don't…HAVE to go back now," Pearl suggested. "The Colony is perfectly capable of functioning without us, and even if it weren't…well, we're in the middle of dismantling it, aren't we? It hasn't been long enough for our absence to arouse suspicion." She swallowed nervously. "Can't we…stay here, a while?"
Rose was silent for what seemed like an eternity…but when she spoke again, a smile had returned to her face. "Whatever you wish, my Pearl."
Pearl sighed, sheathing the small saber she had decided to practice with that day and letting it hover with the rest of her swords. She'd distracted herself enough with swordplay…her form was as perfect as ever.
Her eyes slithered over to a corner of her room, where she had carefully carved out a small space for the latest addition to her own private space.
It was a dual record and CD player, a gift from Mr. Universe. He came by nearly every day, sometimes to speak with her more about music or the stars, and sometimes, most confusingly…it seemed he wished to simply tell her hello before going on with the rest of his day.
It seemed inefficient to her, in all honesty. The Temple wasn't far from the city, but it was certainly out of the way. Why would he bother to go to so much effort if he only intended to spare a few words?
Not…that she was complaining, of course. Oddly enough, she found it pleasant that he went to such lengths, though she couldn't say why herself.
The record player was situated on a small, mahogany end table. Beside it was a larger book shelf that was meant to contain her collection of musical pieces, but so far all she had were the two CD's of Mr. Universe's that he had given to her, along with the shirt he had given her folded neatly beside the two albums.
Her eyes hovered on the CD's, and she bit her lip nervously. "I suppose just one song couldn't hurt…"
She hummed as she hurried over to the CD player, carefully retrieving the disc and placing it inside, just as Mr. Universe had shown her. "Now I believe…it should be this one." She knelt down on her knees to press a button, and gave a giddy laugh when she heard the music begin to play. It opened with a familiar guitar…lick, Mr. Universe called them, before quite suddenly switching to a much more reserved tempo.
"I know I'm not that tall," Mr. Universe's voice came through the speaker, and Pearl giggled, a smile coming easily to her face. "I know I'm not that smart. But let me drive my van into your heart…let me drive my van into your heart."
Pearl snorted, then began to gently sway her head to the tune of the song without realizing it, singing along quietly. "I know I'm not that rich, I'm trying to get my start. So let me drive my van into your heart…let me drive my van into your heart."
She skipped to her feet, spinning around to the music as she sang along. "And if we look out of place…well baby, that's okay. I'll drive us into outer space…where we can't hear what people say."
Pearl fell to the ground in a fit of laughter as the song carried on. She wiped a tear out of her eye, amazed she'd actually lost her balance in the heat of the moment.
The song came to an end, and her face fell as the music came to an end. Though she desperately wanted to listen to more, she pressed the button Greg assured her would turn the device off, and the music stopped.
He had given it all to her only a few weeks ago, just after they had met…and yet she had spent most of that time listening to those two CD's front to back, day after day, again and again.
Pearl smiled fondly. Mr. Universe was an enigma. How could he write such silly, ridiculous songs about…about vans driving into outer space, and somehow manage to make it sound sweet and catchy?
And at the same time, how was one individual supposed to write something so obviously playful, and then something so unbelievably captivating as the first song she had heard him play? Comet was what she learned it was called, and it was by far her favorite song…not just from Mr. Universe, but from the entire time she had spent on earth. Even those beautiful so-called classical pieces…really only a few centuries old…even those songs that Rose had shown her paled in comparison to the simplistic beauty of Mr. Universe's songs.
It was really quite confusing…but for once in her very long life, she welcomed the uncertainty.
Er…most of it, anyhow.
Over the last few weeks, he had been coming to visit more and more often. Sometimes Mr. Universe would play more of his music for her, songs that weren't on either of those CD's, some of which she suspected he made up on the fly, though you wouldn't be able to tell from how good they made her feel. Sometimes they talked. He would speak about his dreams before Beach City, and the stars, and she in turn would tell him a little…never too much, of course, but enough to feed his curiosity.
Just as he promised, he never tried to push her to tell him more than she wished, or asked her to go into the city with him. In fact, he seemed to go out of his way to make her comfortable, something she certainly appreciated…
But something else lay beneath the surface. Not on his part, he quite clearly wore his heart on his sleeve.
But Pearl felt strange. She felt…she felt as if she were betraying Rose somehow.
Which was ridiculous. Honestly, they only talked…he would sometimes compliment her, or say something in a way that left her blushing, but that was the extent of it. Nothing was done that could be constituted as an act of betrayal, even if there were something to betray, which…which…
Which there wasn't.
Pearl lowered her head, clutching her arm to keep it from shaking. And isn't that the problem? She thought, with no small amount of bitterness.
She knew Rose loved her. And maybe, possibly…Rose even loved her in the same way Pearl loved Rose. She didn't think that was the issue.
The issue was that Rose loved everyone and everything. In different regards, yes…but Rose had never been shy with her affections. She delighted in the earth, and all it had to offer, from the beautiful plant life, to the warm sun in the morning, to a chill wind in the midst of summer…and of course, Rose loved humans.
Rose had fallen in love more than once over the years…always fleeting, but humans entertained her in a way Pearl apparently couldn't. She doubted Rose could love only one person for the rest of her life…but Pearl…she couldn't imagine loving anyone other than Rose.
Rose had to know that. She had to, it wasn't as if they…as if they never…expressed themselves.
She reddened, even though she was alone in her room. Those first few years on earth, just the two of them coming down now and again to wreak havoc on Homeworld's operations…they had been magical in every sense of the world, a fantasy made real.
But ever since they faked the shattering, ever since the war truly took off…it was like the two of them together were forgotten. At first she understood. They were in the middle of a war, they hardly had the time for such childish indulgences.
After, though…when they thought they had lost everything, when they thought it was just her, Rose and Garnet…when they were all alone, still struggling to come to terms with the fact that the war was over, and the terrible toll it took…
Rose did not come to her. Rose did not choose her. Rose found her comfort with a human, leaving Pearl behind.
Pearl shut her eyes, taking a careful breath. Get a hold of yourself, She chided. You are acting jealous.
It was…immature, she knew that. After all, she was still the one Rose entrusted with her secrets. And those humans…what did they matter to her, really? Phases, every one of them, quickly expended and quickly forgotten.
With a start, she realized she was scowling and scoffed. Her mood was ruined, evidently…she may as well leave her room. Perhaps the others will have found something to keep them all busy.
She left her room, eager to get a new start on the day and forget all about her troubles…only to immediately find Mr. Universe waiting for her by the warp pad. That in itself wasn't unusual.
The fact that Garnet was standing in front of him was, however, and Pearl realized with a start that she couldn't recall Garnet ever meeting Mr. Universe…or anyone ever telling her about him.
Mr. Universe caught sight of her behind Garnet, and his eyes widened, his face immediately breaking out into a smile. "Pearl! I met another one of your Gem friends. You didn't tell me there were more! I thought Amethyst and Rose were the only other ones."
Garnet turned, her arms crossed, and Pearl winced. This…is going to be unpleasant. "Pearl," Garnet said. "There is a human in the Temple."
"Er…to be precise there's a human waiting just outside the Temple," Pearl corrected in an effort to defend herself.
Garnet was unamused. "There are not supposed to be humans near the Temple. That's why we built the fence."
"Yes, well…" Pearl cleared her throat. "This is Mr. Universe. He's a musician who recently decided to come and stay in Beach City." She paused. "He's also the exception to the rule." She turned away before Garnet could say anything. "Rose already said she didn't have a problem if the human came to visit, so there isn't any issue."
"I don't understand," Garnet frowned, looking back at Mr. Universe. "Explain how you know who we are."
Pearl laughed nervously, hoping to get a word in before Mr. Universe. He had a…somewhat flowery way with words, and she didn't want Garnet getting the wrong idea. "Funny story, really, it isn't all that special-"
Garnet held up a hand to silence her, cutting her off. Pearl blinked in surprise. "I wasn't telling you," She said. "I was telling the human."
Mr. Universe shrugged. "I was putting on a show a few weeks ago on the beach, and right at the end Pearl here showed up to listen. I gave her a free CD, but she left before I could give her a t-shirt. I found her here, gave her the shirt, had an existential crisis after a near death experience, and decided to completely change the course of my life in one night! So…yeah, I live in Beach City now."
Garnet was silent for a moment, and for a moment, Pearl entertained the idea that she might just think he was insane and leave it at that. "I see," Garnet said, and an almost imperceptible smile tugged at the corner of her mouth.
Urgh. Pearl sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. This was exactly what she was trying to avoid. "Garnet, I'm sure whatever you think you understand is nothing more than an overexaggeration of what really-"
"Mr. Universe," Garnet said, cutting her off again. "Go back down to the fence. Pearl will be with you shortly."
"Alright," He grinned. "Nice to meet you, Garnet!" With a final wave, he was running back down from the temple…and despite herself, Pearl gave a small wave in return, before quickly hiding the gesture, hoping Garnet wouldn't see.
Her hopes were promptly dashed. "Didn't think you had it in you," Garnet remarked, crossing her arms.
Pearl scowled. "And what does that mean?"
Garnet shrugged. "Would have thought I'd see something like this if it happened, but I can't complain about a nice surprise."
She growled. "I already told you, whatever you think-"
"Don't bother with what I think," Garnet told her. "Care about what you think. About this Mr. Universe."
"Stop talking like that!" Pearl snapped, growing irritated out of embarrassment. "You didn't even know he existed until two minutes ago! Don't pretend you understand-"
"Pearl-"
"And stop interrupting me!" She yelled, surprising herself and Garnet both. She took a careful breath. "Honestly…six thousand years, and no one bats an eye if…if Rose cavorts around with a human. Amethyst has always meddled too much, and even you join her from time to time…but I speak to a single human, and now you all act like it's the end of the world!"
She turned away with a scoff, crossing her arms. "Amethyst seemingly has nothing better to do than interfere and gossip. I thought at least you would be above making such baseless assumptions-"
She felt a hand on her shoulder and froze, stiffening at the touch. "Pearl," Garnet said gently. "Tell me what's wrong."
"Oh please," She huffed. "I saw you smile. I know what you and Amethyst are thinking. Mr. Universe is a friend, and one I barely even know at that."
Garnet paused before replying. "I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable. I wasn't trying to imply anything. But this is something new…you've never really bothered much with humans before. I'm happy for you, even if you've just found another friend. It's a good thing, Pearl."
She sighed, shaking her head. "It doesn't matter. I suppose it's my fault for letting Amethyst's ridiculous comments get in my head."
Garnet froze suddenly, then just as quickly loosened. "Pearl…" She said, her voice taking on a much more urgent tone.
She frowned. "Yes? Did you see something?"
Garnet paused, then nodded. "Mr. Universe is going to take you to the Boardwalk Funland."
"Er…that was the plan, yes," Pearl admitted. "I've been rather distracted lately, and he says having…fun is apparently an excellent way of destressing." She rubbed her arm. "Although now I'm not so certain I should go…I'm still a little annoyed, and I fear I'll make things unpleasant…"
Garnet smiled again. "You should go," She said. "Go with him. Spend the night out on the town, have some fun. It'll be worth it. Trust me."
Pearl raised an eyebrow skeptically. "If you say so…" She turned away from her, beginning to walk away, but Garnet grabbed her shoulder and held her in place.
"Listen, Pearl," Garnet said before she had a chance to ask what she was doing. "Forget about Amethyst, forget about me…forget about Rose. Let tonight be about the two of you." She paused. "And if you really want to stop letting yourself get distracted…then the only way to do that is figure out exactly what's distracting you."
Pearl blinked. "...Thank you, Garnet." She pulled herself away. "I think I'll be going now."
Garnet grinned. "Enjoy yourself, Pearl," She said as she turned back to the Temple. "...and when you get to the top, don't think. Act."
"What on earth is that supposed to-hey!" Garnet entered the Temple as she spoke, cutting her off.
Pearl scoffed, shaking her head as she began walking once more to the beach. She should honestly be used to Garnet's cryptic meddling by now, but every now and again she still managed to surprise her.
She noticed Greg standing by the fence, waiting patiently for her to come down, and any foul mood was wiped from her face, and a small, nervous smile took its place.
Garnet was right about one thing, at least. She could forget about everything else for tonight. Tonight was about her.
Well…her and Mr. Universe, that was.
"What is Funland, anyway?" She asked.
"Well, it's kind of like a Carnival," Mr. Universe explained.
"What's a Carnival?"
"Er…" He frowned. "It's another word for a Circus."
"What's a Circus?"
"Right…" Mr. Universe sighed. "Alien. Got it. I guess I'll just have to teach you about earth stuff…"
"Excuse me," Pearl said playfully. "I've been on the earth much longer than you have, Mr. Universe."
He laughed. "I guess that's true, isn't it? Alrighty…I guess I'll just have to teach you about human stuff."
"So what is a Circus?" She asked again.
"Remember my rock show?" He asked.
How could I forget? "Of course," She answered.
"Remember what I told you they're normally like? With a bunch of people cheering, coming to watch and be entertained?" She nodded, and he carried on. "Well a Circus is kind of like that, only instead of music, there's all sorts of attractions. Sometimes there's these special performers like strongmen and bearded ladies, and sometimes there's exotic animals like tigers and elephants."
She frowned. "That's not all that unusual. Rose and I ran into a few tigers just the other day. And Amethyst shapeshifts a beard onto her face all the time."
"It's unusual for humans," Mr. Universe clarified. "Most people can't get halfway across the world in about five seconds with a magic warp thingy. And humans can't shapeshift."
Pearl rolled her eyes, smiling. "Alright then…tell me more about what makes a circus unique."
"All kinds of things," Mr. Universe shrugged. "There can be clowns, music, games like tests of strength, magicians, sword swallowers and people who breathe fire. Trapeze artists who do these cool acrobatic stunts, stunt performers who jump motorcycles through burning hoops. All that stuff and more."
She giggled. "I'll grant you, all that certainly sounds exciting. Are we going to see one of those stunt performers then? Or a…what did you call it…a Trapeze artist?"
"Er…not quite," Mr. Universe admitted. "I said Funland's like a Circus, not that it is one. Beach City is a small town, and I swear there's like, one guy who runs the whole Funland."
Pearl stopped right at the border of where the Boardwalk became Funland, staring skeptically within. "So if it doesn't have any of those things…what does it have?"
"Well for starters, a cotton candy vendor right at the entrance is always a plus." He grinned, and before she could get a word in he had already ordered two cones of some kind of large, puffy…thing. He held one out to her. "Here, have some!"
She regarded it with a look of equal parts horror and confusion. "What is it?"
"Cotton candy!" Mr. Universe cheered. "It's human food…and it's really good."
Her face fell. "Oh, no thank you, Mr. Universe," She tried to give it back. "I don't like eating."
Mr. Universe frowned. "Hm…alright then…" He handed off one of the cones to a random passerby. "Not to worry, there's still plenty to do!" He looked around for a moment, then broke out into a grin. "Like that!" He grabbed her wrist gently and led her away.
He stopped in front of a strange looking pillar, with a bell at the top. "...I don't get it," She said, after scrutinizing the pillar.
"It's like I was telling you earlier," Mr. Universe said. "You take the hammer here, hit that button as hard as you can, and it tells you how strong you are. If you ring the bell, you win. Here, let me show you."
He grabbed the hammer leaning up against the side of the pillar, and placed himself in front of it. He took a deep breath, bringing back the hammer and finally slamming it down. "Argh!" He yelled, hitting the button with all his force.
A stylized pointer finger jumped up just above halfway up the pillar, before falling back down to the base. "Womp-Womp!" A loud, obnoxious sound emerged from the speaker. "Is that the best you can do? Come back when you want to take this seriously!"
Pearl immediately scowled, but Mr. Universe chuckled. "I guess I've been slacking off a little in the exercise department now that I'm not touring so much."
"I cannot believe this." She scoffed. Pearl immediately scowled, crossing her arms. "Excuse me!" She yelled back at the speaker. "You are being very rude for no reason! He's trying his best!" She frowned, when no answer came back. "Hello! I would like to speak to whoever that was! I have a very lightly stern reprimand in mind for you!"
Mr. Universe laughed. "Pearl, it's okay."
"But they were so mean!" She exclaimed. "That's unacceptable! Why would they want to be cruel to you?"
He laughed even harder at that, shaking his head. "It's just a machine, Pearl. These things are designed to be hard, and it's all in good fun. No one takes what they say seriously."
Pearl pouted. "I took it seriously. It isn't very nice of the machine to do that."
He grinned. "Then how about you show the machine how you feel?" He offered her the mallet.
She hesitated, but took it, and stepped up in front of the machine. "Aw, back for more?" The Machine said. In hindsight, the voice was a little uncanny for a normal human. "Give me the best you got! It might even tickle this time…"
Pearl growled, and in a single swift motion pulled back the hammer and slammed down as hard as she could. She broke through the machine entirely, hitting the ground and cracking the concrete beneath. The pointer finger shot up forcefully, and the bell popped off the pillar and flew off into the sky with a ding. A few seconds later it fell back down beside them harmlessly.
"Woah," She heard Mr. Universe say, and she blushed. It was silly of her, but…breaking the machine and impressing Mr. Universe felt good. She felt…strong.
She didn't get to feel strong very often. She decided it felt good. Very good.
Pearl dropped the mallet with a grin,
and placed her hands on her hips dramatically. "Come back when you want to take things seriously," She grinned, looking down at the wreckage, before turning around in excitement. "Did you see me, Mr. Universe?"
"You were awesome!" He laughed. "Like some kind of crazy strong superhero!"
"Is there anything else like this?" She asked hurriedly. "What else is here?"
"Plenty," He grinned. "Let me show you around."
They must have spent hours exploring the Funland, going through every ride and game there was. He led her through something called a House of Mirrors, which confused her more than anything…though she had to admit it was amusing to see her tower over Mr. Universe, then suddenly shrink when they looked in the mirror beside it.
They rode inside a pair of small vehicles he called bumper cars, and she nearly toppled over a small child who refused to stop ramming his car into hers. Weren't humans supposed to avoid crashing into each other when they were driving? Honestly, it was like she was the only one who had any manners.
Despite that, she found she enjoyed the experience, to her surprise. And not just the bumper cars, or the House of Mirrors. Mr. Universe led her all over the Funland, going from one attraction to the next. They rode a pair of tiny plastic horses as they bounced slowly up and down, nothing at all like the real thing…but the smile Mr. Universe had as the music played and they spun around made it worthwhile all the same.
They rode in spinning tea cups until Mr. Universe's face turned green, and he needed to get out. They walked down to the edge of the Boardwalk and looked off into the sea for a while. They threw tiny little darts at bundles of balloons, and she actually managed to win him a prize…a cassette player, of all things. She knew he already had one, but he didn't seem to mind…if anything, he seemed delighted.
For hours they enjoyed themselves, talking, laughing, living in the moment. She didn't think she'd had so much fun in centuries…
But it was starting to wear on her. She had no complaints about his company, of course, but there were far more humans around than she was used to. She cleared her throat. "It's getting late," She said, causing him to turn to her. "I know you humans need your sleep."
"Oh," He frowned. "You wanna go home then? Or are you not having fun?"
She smiled. "I promise you I'm having fun, Mr. Universe…" She glanced around them. "But this is a little much for me. The people, that is. I haven't been around so many at once since…" She frowned. "Well, since ever, I don't think."
"The people are the issue?" He grinned, something flashing in his eyes. "Alright…how about just one more ride?"
She frowned. "I don't know…" It sounded delightful, but people had begun taking notice of the Gem in her forehead, and she'd caught more than one staring.
"There won't be any other people," He promised, then pointed at the other end of the Boardwalk. "See that? It's a Ferris Wheel. There's room for two people in each seat, so we'll be by ourselves. After that we can go home." He shrugged. "Unless you really want to go home now. It's up to you."
She hesitated, but gave a shaky nod, and smiled. "One more ride."
Before she knew it, they had taken their seats in the…Ferris Wheel, and a voice overhead announced the ride would begin. It gave a shudder before creaking forward, and she felt the two of them lift into the air.
"Look," Mr. Universe said, pointing out as they rose higher and higher. "It's a pretty sweet view, isn't it?"
Her eyes widened as she peered over the edge of their booth, staring out over Beach City at night. Thousands of tiny lights it up the houses, shining back at her, and if she glanced over to the beach, she could even make out parts of the Temple. "It's beautiful…" She murmured.
He chuckled. "I figured you'd like it. I know you said you miss flying, and the stars…" He shrugged. "I can't take you to outer space, unfortunately…but I can take you here."
Something jumped in her chest, and she smiled involuntarily. Her eyes were starting to water. "Mr. Universe…"
He smiled. "You don't have to keep calling me that, you know."
She froze, his words striking a familiar chord. "W-What did you say?"
"Mr. Universe is mostly what I use as a stage name," He said. "Well, it's also my real name, or it is now…but you can always just call me Greg."
"Greg," She echoed absently, then paused. That was the first time she had actually said his name. So much of this seemed so familiar to her. So much of it…
She sighed, hanging her head. "What am I doing?" She muttered.
"Pearl?" He sounded concerned. "Are you alright?"
She laughed bitterly. "I have absolutely no idea."
"...Was it tonight?" He asked after a brief pause.
She shook her head fervently, looking up to meet his eyes. "Mr. Universe…Greg…tonight has been the best night I have had in many, many years. I had a wonderful time, really. I truly can't thank you enough, not for any of this…" She swallowed nervously. "The problem isn't you. It's me."
She began to ramble before he had a chance to speak up. "At first, you only reminded me of the stars. That was all it was…a brief slip up. I let myself remember for a little while at your show, and that was supposed to be all it was." She bit her lip. "But…you came back. You said such wonderful things, and played such wonderful songs…and all of it for me. Like…like I was somebody special."
She tore her eyes away from him, rubbing the palm of her hand nervously. "I enjoy being around you, Greg. A lot. Maybe…maybe more than I should. It's…it's impossible to explain all at once, but knowing how much I mean to you…it comforts me, almost. For so long I've felt almost invisible…but to you it's like I'm the only star in the sky. It's wonderful, it's magical…and it's selfish."
She wrapped her arms around herself. "I don't know what…this is. Or what it might be. I…I feel torn."
"Pearl," Greg said quietly. "You don't have to tell me anything you aren't comfortable with. But I'm never going to know what you're feeling if you don't tell me."
She closed her eyes, and took a deep breath. "I love Rose," She said bluntly, unwilling to look at him. "I've loved her for thousands and thousands of years. And for thousands of years, I've sat by quietly as she gives her love to the world around her. To the plants, to the animals, to the humans who live here…but never to me. Not in the way I love her. Not anymore."
Tears were falling openly down her face now. "I don't know what I'm doing anymore…if-if I'm just waiting for things to go back to the way they were, or if I'm not waiting for anything, or…I don't know. But…but I do know that these last few weeks have been strange. I've been feeling something new, something I can't explain. But I know it's wrong. I love Rose, I still love Rose…"
Her head hung lower, and she wiped a tear out of her eye. "...So why do I feel this way about you?" She whispered fearfully.
"...I won't tell you how you're supposed to feel," Greg said after another pause. He sounded almost as nervous as her. "But whatever you need, I'm here for you. If you want to leave, we can go right now, and if you need a minute we can stay. Let you figure this out on your own."
Pearl's eyes widened, and Garnet's words came back to her.
And when you get to the top, don't think. Act.
Don't think…just act. What did that even mean? Act on what?
The answer came to her, just as it did nearly six thousand years ago trailing after Rose. Act on your feelings.
She didn't bother thinking about how terrible an idea it was. She didn't think about Rose, or how crazy it was, or how much she might regret it later. To be completely honest with herself, she followed Garnet's advice to the letter…she didn't bother thinking at all.
Pearl lifted her head up, wiping away the last of her tears and turning to meet Greg's eyes. He had only a second to look at her in surprise before she shut her eyes and kissed him.
It wasn't anything like kissing Rose. Kissing Rose felt like everything around her came to a screeching halt. Like the two of them were the only living things on earth. The only things in the universe that mattered in that moment.
Kissing Greg felt like a part of her jumped out of her body, freeing itself out into the world. She felt lightheaded, and she felt like everything around them was amplified a thousandfold, all centered on the two of them.
She parted from him, her eyes still wide. He looked at her just as surprised as she was, and she blushed, quickly turning away from him. "I…apologize," She winced. "I don't know what came over me. I shouldn't have-"
"No!" He said quickly, snapping out of his brief paralysis. He grinned. "That was amazing!"
She flinched. "I'm sorry, I can't…" This is wrong. This is wrong. A sinking weight crushed her shoulders now that the moment had passed. Their booth reached the bottom of the ride, and together the two of them stepped out of their seats. "Greg, tonight was amazing. But I have to be getting back to the Temple now."
He blinked. "That's cool," He said. "I'll…see you tomorrow?" He phrased it as if it were a question.
Odd. He'd never had to ask before. "Well of course," She frowned. "Unless you had other plans. You always come by in the mornings."
He breathed a sigh of relief. "Sorry. I just thought we made things weird there."
Her face reddened. "It was…certainly weird," She admitted. "But…not unpleasant. And whatever it was, it's certainly nothing that would warrant a change in your routine. We are friends, after all." She cleared her throat. "I don't…I still don't know what any of this means. Or what exactly we are, but…I would very much still like to be your friend, no matter what else happens."
Greg smiled at her. "I'd like that too." He glanced over to his van as they left the Boardwalk.. "You want a ride back to the Temple, or do you want to walk the Beach?"
She shook her head. "I think I'd like the time to think," She said.
"No problemo," He waved to her as they split apart. "See you tomorrow Pearl! Have a good night!"
She waved back with a smile. "Enjoy your dreaming!" She watched as he left, then sighed as she walked slowly along the beach, just as she had the night they'd met.
Rose, Greg, the kiss…all of it was still swirling in her head, far too chaotic for her to make sense of later. She loved Rose, she knew that for certain. She didn't think she would ever stop loving her…but she feared a part of her was starting to fall in love with Greg as well.
And she wasn't sure whether that was a bad thing or not.
Later, She told herself, shaking her head. She could figure it out later. For now, she wouldn't worry about it. She'd just had the most wonderful night she'd had in years. She could enjoy herself for a little while. And tomorrow she would greet Greg when he arrived, and maybe they would even talk a little about tonight. Not about the kiss, of course…but there was plenty more to talk about.
Pearl smiled.
That sounded…nice.
This is pretty much pure fluff, with a bit of angst, lol. It's a lot of fun writing Pearl's struggling feelings, because she still very much loves Rose…and now she has to deal with Greg on top of that, lol.
It's very late, so I won't type out too much here, but if anyone would like to leave a comment or review, I'm happy to answer any questions!
Btw, in case it wasn't clear, I will be continuing and finishing this story.
Chapter Text
Greg laid across the top of his van, hands folded behind his head as he stared off into the night sky.
He smiled. The stars were what got him mixed up in all of this. Who would have thought…some dumb, admittedly childish fascination with space, a cheesy theme for his band…and it was the reason his entire life had changed.
He knew going out on the road to tour would change things. He just had no idea how much it would change.
What would his parents say, if they saw him now? He scoffed. Nothing good, that's for sure. If they didn't insult him for leaving in the first place, they'd insult him for not even being able to stick to the one reason he left to begin with. They'd probably be disappointed he didn't follow through in disappointing them.
He sighed. It didn't matter. They didn't matter, not really. He'd write them more letters, which he was sure would go unanswered, just like the rest, but there wasn't much else he could do at this point. There were other things in his life now. Better things.
He closed his eyes, letting the sound of the water crashing against the beach lull him peacefully. Maybe it wasn't the most well thought out decision he had ever made…but looking back, the only decisions he seemed not to regret were the ones he made on impulse. Running away to pursue music. Going on tour.
And leaving it all behind for a girl.
Not just any girl. Pearl…gosh, how could he even describe her? She was alien to him…not just literally, but everything about her. From her actions, to her way of speaking, how little she knew about human culture. She even looked alien. Not in a tiny green martian kind of way, but more…more ethereal. Like…like a star. And he was just some hapless asteroid who stumbled into her path, and found himself unable to break away.
He grinned. She'd like that if I told her. He could picture it now. She'd blush in a heartbeat, and get all flustered, with that cute little look on her face, stammering that he had to be exaggerating, but after a little while she'd give him an appreciative smile.
It stunned him how she couldn't see how amazing she was. The most beautiful woman he'd ever met, the most brilliant, and every time he complimented her she was half convinced he was talking about Rose, or one of the others.
He sat up with a groan, looking back at the Temple with a frown. Normally Pearl came out to at least say hi and chat for a little while before he set out back into town, but the last couple of days he hadn't seen her.
Sure, there was always the possibilty she was stuck on one of those missions she mentioned…but the notion that she was avoiding him had lodged itself in his head and wouldn't let go.
Did he do something wrong? He'd always tried to be as upfront as possible, doing whatever he could to make her comfortable. He was acutely aware of how little experience she actually had with humans…he wanted to make her experience with him a good one.
Greg scratched the back of his neck awkwardly and sighed. "Who am I kidding?" He muttered. He knew why she was avoiding him. There was only one thing that had happened in the last few days to warrant such a change…
The kiss.
He still wasn't sure what to make of it, other than it was wonderful. All night, he'd only want to give Pearl a chance to relax, to unwind and have fun. He hadn't expected it would mean so much to her…he hadn't expected her to spill so much to him…
…and her certainly hadn't expected her to kiss him.
It was the best kiss of his life. Screw that, it was the best feeling of his life. Ever since they met, something had pulled him towards her, unable or unwilling to let go. He knew there was something on her end, but he didn't know what, and he didn't want to push her. If all they ever were was friends, that would be more than enough for him.
But now…now he thought there was a real chance they could be something more. If only it weren't so complicated.
She still loved Rose. He couldn't even begin to wrap his head around loving someone for so long, but he couldn't ignore that was a part of her. At the same time, she had chosen to kiss him. What did that mean? Did she even know herself?
Probably not. But did she want to find out? He hoped so.
Whatever came next, it was going to be weird. For both of them, he guessed, but still…he couldn't fight down the feeling of excitement.
He loved her. He knew that as surely as he knew the sun rose in the east and set in the west. And now, maybe…she loved him too.
The memory of her desperately clutching her arms, shaking as she cried beside him in the Ferris Wheel booth came suddenly, flashing in his mind alongside her words. So why do I feel this way about you?
Guilt swarmed around him. It was all well and good that he was feeling happy, but Pearl was obviously torn up about the whole thing. Maybe she did love him, or care for him, or something less clear than that, but that didn't take away from the fact she was hurting. And that came first.
He pushed himself off the roof of the van, landing back on the beach with a hup. "First things first," He said to himself, pacing back and forth along the beach. "Go over what happened."'
Well…she made it clear she didn't think it was his fault. And she seemed to have recovered some by the time they parted ways. She'd even assured him they were still friends, and he had seen her a few times since that night. That didn't mean any of her problems were actually solved, but it was something, at least.
But how could he even help? She was this beautiful, magical alien warrior. She'd lived for thousands and thousands of years…he was just some human. Not even all that special of one either. In what world could a failed rock star help someone like her?
Another memory came to him, this one more pleasant. His mind went back to the night they met. The smile on her face, and her gleeful applause when he ended his set. The surprise in her eyes when he came back for her, not once but twice. Her disbelief that he'd given up on a chance to make it big for her sake…and the nice, quiet time they had spent leaning against each other as he played for her.
Maybe he couldn't fix any of her problems for her. And maybe he wasn't really good for much to begin with…but if nothing else, he could make sure he was there for her.
Something was bothering her, obviously. There had to be a reason she was keeping to herself, and if she needed space he'd give it to her.
But the one thing he could do was make sure he was ready and waiting for her, whenever she felt ready to come out again. It wasn't much in his eyes…but to him, nothing he'd done had been all that special. The show, the shirt, taking her on the Ferris Wheel to give her a better view of the stars and the city. All of it had been small gestures, but they had meant the world to Pearl.
Maybe this would mean something to her too.
Rose caught her by the wrist, yanking her back just out of range of the Corrupted Gem's attack. Pearl recovered quickly, briefly nodding in thanks before jumping right back into the fight. She ran up the arm of the gem, leaping up into the air to bring her spear down.
Evidently, the Gem took exception to that. It smacked her out of the air, sending her crashing back into Rose and the two of them tumbled backwards.
"Gah!" Pearl squeaked. "Rose! Are you alright?"
Rose stood, glaring at the gem past her. "I'm fine," She answered, and a smile crossed her face. "Garnet and Amethyst have got her distracted for a moment…what do you say we give them a hand?"
Pearl frowned. "Did we…not just try that?"
Rose grinned. "Not quite what I had in mind. I was thinking something more…cooperative."
Her eyes lit up in understanding, and a giddy laugh escaped her. "Shall we?" She offered her hand.
Rose took it, wrapping her other arm around her waist and pulling her closer. "Of course."
They danced quickly, but still in time with one another. They had known each other for so long, dancing was second nature to them. Rose lifted her hand, spinning Pearl beneath her, then dipped her down low, bending over to meet her. Pearl grinned as they pressed themselves against each other, a glowing light emanating from them.
Rose Quartz did not open her eyes and straighten herself out, stretching her arms out and groaning in relief. Pearl did not smile, and run her hands through her blonde hair. Someone altogether different from them breathed in the fresh air, savoring the feeling of the sun on her skin.
Something landed at her feet with a crash, and she stepped back, pulled once more into the battle.
Amethyst looked up at her and blinked. "Sup Rainbow," She greeted. "Rose and Pearl decide to let you out to play, then?"
Rainbow Quartz held a hand to her mouth, stifling a giggle. "Something like that," She said slyly. "It's good to see you again, Amethyst."
Amethyst pushed herself off the ground and cracked her knuckles. "Welp, time to get back in action!" She leapt forward with a yell, wrapping her whip around one of the gems arms and pulling herself back into the fight.
Rainbow took a deep breath, judging her next move carefully. Garnet was keeping pace with the Corrupted Gem, and Amethyst butted in at just the right moments to keep it too distracted to focus on one of them, but it wouldn't last. The gem was larger than both of them, and more powerful by a large margin.
Hm…this requires precision. She grinned, and pulled Pearl's spear from her gem. Rose's shield appeared a few feet in front of her, floating in the air. She ran forward, jumping up and kicking herself off the shield to get more distance.
She soared high, effortlessly closing the distance between her and the fight. Rainbow smiled triumphantly. She felt strong. She loved being together, she loved being herself. She brought down Pearl's spear, ready to end this quickly. She loved…she loved…I love…
Something inside of her twisted, and her grasp on Pearl's spear shifted ever so slightly. She missed, her spear digging into the earth. The gem turned faster than she thought possible, kicking out at her.
The blow caught her in the stomach, sending her flying back just as quickly as she closed in. Rainbow scowled, pulling herself back up to her feet and brushing the dirt off of her. Something was wrong. She felt…divided. In a way she never had before.
She felt a sharp pain in her head and winced, falling to her knees as a hand flew to the side of her head. "Pearl?" Her voice formed the words, but it wasn't her speaking. "What's…what's wrong?"
A voice that wasn't hers rang out inside her mind. I'm sorry, Pearl apologized. This is my fault. I should never have-
"No," Rainbow…Rose grunted. "It's not your fault, but you have to…we have to stay together."
I…I…"I understand," She said, the pain slowly receding. Her vision focused, and she blinked carefully. She was one again, but something was still wrong. A sour feeling she didn't understand.
Rainbow frowned, summoning Pearl's spear once more. They could figure that out themselves later…for now, she just needed to deal with the Gem.
She didn't waste any time on theatrics. They were on a time limit now, and she didn't know how long her components could stay together. The thought drove her apart even further, guilt emanating from Pearl.
Rainbow tried to ignore it the best she could. She drew back her spear, taking aim. She waited, watching for her opportunity…and when it came, she threw with all her might.
This time, her aim was perfect. The spear spiraled towards its target like an arrow, cleaving through the air and driving clean through the corrupted gem, only just missing the gem itself. It barely had the time to give out a cry of pain before it poofed, and immediately Rainbow fell to her knees with a gasp.
She felt herself coming apart, more violently than she had ever unfused before, and a dizzying bright light filled her vision.
Pearl gasped when she fell to the earth, clutching at the grass. "Stars," She exclaimed, breathing heavily. "I'm so sorry, Rose! That's never happened before, I have no idea why-"
"It's okay," Rose said quickly, gently taking a hold of her arm and lifting her to her feet. "What matters is that no one was hurt. That's the important part."
Amethyst groaned, rubbing her head as she made her way over. "Uh…what was that? Rainbow's normally way cooler…"
Garnet flicked the back of her head. "Ow!" Amethyst grumbled, but Garnet continued on unfazed.
"What Amethyst was trying to say is that you seemed unstable," Garnet said. "Something must have happened."
Rose blinked in surprise. "That doesn't make any sense…nothing's really happened lately." She turned to her. "Pearl? Is something wrong?"
She reddened in embarrassment, and looked away. "Nothing at all," She lied hastily. "We haven't fused for a few months, I'm sure it's just that."
Garnet crossed her arms. "Pearl-"
"The gem is dealt with!" She said quickly, turning her back to the others. "Let's just get back to the Temple. I'm sure we can figure out whatever's messing with our fusion better from there."
She didn't bother looking behind her, and she certainly didn't wait around for one of them to speak up. She doubted any of them believed her for a second. Her lie was a poor one even to her, but what was she supposed to say? That she panicked?
She was Rose's Knight. She wasn't supposed to panic. And certainly not…certainly not over something so trivial.
Pearl hurried to the warp pad in silence, hoping to keep enough distance from the others that she'd make it back before they had a chance to interrupt her. Later she'd come up with a proper excuse, but she just needed a moment to think was all.
Thankfully, they were willing to give it to her. She reached the warp pad with no one else in sight, and within minutes she'd made it through the warp and the Temple door was closing behind her, leaving her alone in her room.
A sigh of relief escaped her lips, and she finally let herself relax.
Her eyes flickered over to the small record player in the corner of her room. Later, She thought to herself. First she needed to figure out what went wrong.
Not that it was all that hard. She knew the answer, she just didn't know how to fix it.
Rose…she loved too much, she loved the earth, and the humans, and simply existing…and that excited love bled into Rainbow whenever they fused together. Pearl shouldn't have been so eager to fuse with her, and most definitely not when she was already so…conflicted herself.
She felt Rose's love through Rainbow, but where normally it would bring them closer together, where it would strengthen them…now it only reminded her of how different things were.
She could remember the first time they fused. Or tried to, at any rate. She had made a fool of herself in an effort to imitate Garnet, just so she could please Rose. They failed, but they had come close, and more importantly, it had led to an awkward mess of a confession. She didn't even understand what she was saying, only that she shouldn't have been saying it. Or feeling what she felt.
But Rose had told her, begged her not to stop thinking such things. To not stop loving her. For so long, she had thought that a promise. That Rose wanted the same thing she wanted. That no matter how many human playthings she met over the years, she would always come back to her.
Except…she hadn't, had she? Pearl had thought so, but Pearl had thought a lot of things she wasn't sure about anymore. Six thousand years since they had first stepped foot on earth…and in all that time, it had been just the two of them for what, a few decades? A century or so? And in all the time since the war, how long afterward did she seek out…other company?
Never her, though. Not anymore. So when would she? When would Pearl stop dreaming, when would Rose finally come back to her, when would she finally choose her?
And how long was Pearl going to keep waiting? How long could she keep waiting?
Did Rose even love her in that way anymore? Had she ever, or was Pearl just the first in a long line of curiosities?
She dismissed the thought almost as soon as it came to her. Rose had loved her then, she knew that with a certainty. They still loved each other, just…Rose didn't look at her the way she looked at Rose. She hadn't in a long time.
But…but someone else had.
Pearl sighed. Ever since Mr. Universe appeared in her life, it seemed nothing made sense anymore. How could one human change so much for her in so little time? Barely a month or two, and she was already unraveling.
He thought the world of her, and for what? Because she clapped at his show? She had no idea how he could see her and think so much of her. She recognized the look in his eyes…like every single thing she did was a miracle, like every word out of her mouth was the world's most beautiful song.
Like she was Rose.
Something twisted inside her, and she held a hand to her belly. It felt like a pit was forming inside of her. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes, and she wasn't sure why.
I love Rose, She thought. She felt as strongly about her now as she did all throughout the long years they had known each other. But now…now she was beginning to feel something else.
Greg was something new to her. He was just so…compassionate. He ran after her just to make sure she received a free shirt. He sang such beautiful songs for her, brought her out to enjoy herself, took her up on that Ferris Wheel device to give her a better view of the stars…and he did it all without a second thought. Like it was nothing.
Always so careful to make sure she was comfortable. He was so sweet to her, and he expected nothing in return. He loved her. There was no deception, no complications. There wasn't millenia of baggage, of unsaid words and ignored feelings. No dark secrets, no unbreakable promises. He didn't love her because she saved his life. He simply loved her.
And she…she…
…she loved him in turn, didn't she? A part of her did at least. He made her feel important. Like she was someone important. He met her, and thought she was the center of his world…and he was nice. Kind. Thoughtful. So uniquely human…
Pearl smiled. Is this what Rose sees in them? That care, that kindness. Not just that either…he was happy. Truly happy. He had completely thrown his dreams out into the wind just to stay in Beach City, and yet he was still happy. It confounded her. It intrigued her.
It enthralled her. How he could care so much for someone he barely knew. How he could be so unabashedly content. She wished she were half so sure of herself as he was. It was something entirely new to her, spending so much time around someone like him…there was Rose, of course, but Rose was different. Otherworldly. They were too closely linked to one another for her to see her in the same light she saw Greg now.
She loved Rose…but now, she thought she loved Greg as well. It was foreign to her. For so long, she had only loved Rose. For so long, she thought she would only love Rose. Always on the sidelines, always waiting for something that never came.
And then there was Greg. He was right there, waiting for her. A sweet, kind man who thought the world of her. Who already loved her, and who she loved in turn. A human, of all things.
What was she going to do? What could she do? He made her feel things she had never felt before. He made her excited and terrified, and all sorts of things that confused her. She had tried to keep things the same, to maintain some sense of normal, but after she kissed him she couldn't any longer. After a few days of awkward conversation, she'd retreated inside the Temple, avoiding him out of embarrassment.
She'd been such an impulsive fool. Even…even if she did love him…she still loved Rose. She didn't think she could ever stop loving Rose.
She looked at Greg, and saw a mirror of herself. Not exact, of course, but she saw it all the same. He had fled his home seeking freedom for himself, with no idea where the future would take him. He saw her in the same way she saw Rose. Beautiful, strong, enchanting.
Why? What draws him to me and not Garnet, or Rose?
Why did she matter so much to him?
Pearl could have sat there for days, lost in her thoughts and her doubts. Would have done just that…had she not heard someone grunt.
She turned with a yelp, and found Garnet pulling herself up the rocks where the water from her room flowed to the rest of the Temple. Her mouth fell open, at a loss for words.
Garnet brushed herself off, then nodded towards her. "Hello, Pearl."
Pearl blinked. "Did you…climb to my room?"
She shrugged. "Door was locked, and you weren't coming out. Had to come the long way 'round."
Pearl scowled. "You don't know I wasn't going to come out!"
Garnet crossed her arms, not bothering to answer her.
She reddened. "Right. You actually do." She sighed, shaking her head. "What do you want?"
"Something's causing you trouble," Garnet said. "Rainbow Quartz is usually the most stable fusion out of all of us, outside of me. Something is causing problems with you and Rose…and I think we both know why."
Her blush deepened, and she turned away. "Did you…?"
"I didn't tell the others," She assured her. "I promised not to. But somebody needs to talk to you about this, and I'm the only one who knows, so it has to be me."
"We don't have to talk about anything," Pearl tried to convince her. "Really, I can solve this on my own."
"You almost unfused in the middle of a fight, Pearl," Garnet reminded her. "No one got hurt. This time. We might not be so lucky again."
She swallowed nervously. "I…" She sighed. "I'm sorry. I didn't think it would cause so many problems. I thought…I thought I could handle it myself."
"You aren't alone, Pearl," Garnet told her. "We're all we have left. We can't afford to keep things from each other."
She almost laughed at that…still, she managed not to give herself away. She could still keep that secret, at least. "Then…if you insist on talking…where do we even start?"
"Your feelings for Mr. Universe are causing you conflict," Garnet observed. "So start with those. Tell me how he makes you feel."
She sighed. "It's hard to put it into words…" She said. She'd been trying for the last ten minutes, hadn't she? "Greg…he's wonderful, and he makes me feel wonderful. He acts like I'm this amazing person. The center of his world. He sings for me, he makes me laugh, smile. He comes here every morning just to say hello, and every time he leaves I want to ask him to stay."
Pearl smiled fondly. "He's so sweet, Garnet. I told him I didn't want him to stop playing his music, and he gave me one of those record player devices just so I could hear him play whenever I like. I told him I missed the stars, and he took me to the top of a Ferris Wheel so I could be closer to them." She giggled, wiping a tear out of her eye. "It's such a small thing. I could always just warp to the top of a mountain if I wanted a better view…but for some reason, what Greg did meant more. Because he's simply human. There wasn't much he could do, I didn't expect him to do anything…but he tried, and did the best he could anyway, because he knew I was sad."
Garnet was quiet for a moment. "You love him."
Pearl nodded shakily. "I…I think I do, yes."
"And you still love Rose."
She scoffed. "Of course I do." That should have been obvious. Doubt flickered across her face. Uncertainty. What was she supposed to do now? "Garnet…you're the one who wanted to talk. If any of us knows about love, it would be you, so please tell me, what do I do?"
"I don't know," Garnet said bluntly.
"What do you mean you don't know?" Pearl exclaimed. "What was the point of this then?"
"To help you understand how you felt yourself," Garnet said. "Nobody can tell you how to feel, or make you feel a certain way. Sapphire and Ruby have only ever loved each other. They never had the kind of conflict you have…but I can tell you what I think might help."
Her eyes widened desperately. "Please," She pleaded. "Tell me!"
"You know how Greg makes you feel," Garnet began. "Now figure out exactly how Rose makes you feel. And figure out whether you want to keep holding out hope she'll choose you one day, or whether you want to try something new. Figure out what will make you happier."
Her eye twitched in irritation. "That's your advice?"
"Yes."
She growled in frustration. "How does that solve anything? I've known Rose for thousands of years, obviously she would make me happier."
"No," Garnet said simply. "You've loved her longer. That's not the same thing as making you happier."
"W-What do you mean?" She stumbled, caught off guard. What else could it be?
"Exactly what I just said," Garnet answered. "Listen to me. I know you're probably confused…and I know you feel guilty too. You think falling in love with Mr. Universe means you somehow love Rose less. That you're less loyal to her because of it. But you don't even know if Rose wants the same thing you do. You aren't choosing one over the other…you're choosing for yourself."
Pearl flinched. "I…I just…I only have to wait," She said, her voice falling to a whisper. "Just a little longer. I just have to wait…I won't leave her." She was loyal. She had waited for Rose for so long. She couldn't just…she couldn't…
Garnet embraced her, holding her close. "You aren't a bad person for wanting to be loved like you love her, Pearl. You don't love Rose any less just because there's someone else now, and you won't be betraying her just because you want to be happy. I've known you all these years. I've seen you. I've seen how it hurts you, watching Rose choose others while you wait for her. Don't tell me for a second you think she wouldn't feel guilty if you ever told her how much it hurts you, even by accident. I won't tell you what to do…but I can tell you what I would do, if I were you."
Pearl clutched Garnet tightly. "Please," She begged, desperate for a sense of direction. "Tell me."
"I'd want to be happy," Garnet said. "I wouldn't want to wait forever on the off chance I might be happy later. I'd want to be happy in the moment. If I loved someone, I'd want them to know. I couldn't wait for years and years, never saying a word."
Pearl shut her eyes, taking a deep breath. Slowly, she pulled herself away, and nodded to herself. "Thank you, Garnet. I…I think I know what I need to do now." It was still too much for her…but she had an idea.
"Of course," Garnet said as Pearl walked over to her door to let Garnet out. "You're my friend."
She smiled. "Thank you," She said again, and held a hand towards the exit. "But we both have something we need to tend to right now." Pearl's smile fell, and she bit her lip nervously. "You…you can see it, can't you?"
Garnet hesitated, but nodded. "Not what happens, but what comes after," She clarified.
Pearl sighed. "How does it end?" She asked, knowing she wouldn't get an answer. "Do I figure it all out? Do I fix things? Does it all go back to normal?"
"It depends," Garnet shrugged. "The future's never set. The choice is yours, what comes next. I think you know what you have to do, and what's going to happen because of that. You just have to decide if it's what you want." She adjusted her visor. "But for what it's worth, I have a good idea of which choice you'll make. Or at least the one you want to make. And Pearl," She said, stepping through the threshold and walking away from her. "I can see you're happy."
Her door shut, and Pearl waited for a moment, left with her thoughts. Happy. Did she even know what would make her happy anymore? She wasn't sure what she wanted…but she was sure of what she needed to do. Garnet had helped her realize that at least.
Because she was right. She couldn't keep avoiding this forever.
If anything was ever going to go back to any sort of normal…she needed to speak with Rose.
Anyone else super excited for the spin-off? Gotta admit, I didn't actually think anything would be announced. Too many years waiting for Winds of Winter, I suppose, but I am MORE than glad to be proven wrong, lol.
I'm particularly excited to see more about Padparadscha and Rhodonite, my favorite of the Off-Colours. And I hope it goes a little into the origins of the Gem's as well, but honestly, I'm just happy to have more Steven Universe.
Thank you all for reading, and I hope you're all having fun!
Chapter Text
Rose was thankfully not in her room. It had taken enough effort to work up the courage to go and talk to her, she wasn't sure she'd be able to work it up again if she had to wait any longer.
No, Rose was somewhere else. Somewhere familiar. Sitting beneath her favorite tree, smiling as she looked out over the beach and across the water, the leaves falling all around her, flowers blooming at her knees.
She looked beautiful in the light of the setting sun. She looked beautiful in any light, but Pearl was especially struck by her now. No matter how many years passed, no matter what else happened…she was still as beautiful as ever. Even after changing her face. Pink Diamond or Rose Quartz, both enthralled her.
Pearl stood there longer than she meant to, silently watching her. The urge to take that first step and get the conversation over with pressed against her, but she couldn't quite bring herself to do so. Whatever happened, it would change things. Maybe for the better, maybe not, but something would change with certainty.
Change didn't come easy to her. It didn't come easy to gems in general, but for some it was easier than for others. Rose had cast off her life as a Diamond eagerly. Sapphire and Ruby had come together as Garnet in defiance of everything the two of them had been told since their creation. Amethyst had adapted effortlessly from a life alone wandering the Kindergarten, to becoming one of the Crystal Gems.
But her? She had always been the same. Oh sure, there were superficial changes. She learned how to fight, she rebelled against Homeworld…but it was all still for her Diamond. How much could she really say she changed? How much could she really call herself a Crystal Gem?
The others, every one of them, they sacrificed everything they knew to follow a dream. Broke away from their purpose to follow Rose, but she had always followed her.
Pearl shut her eyes, clenching her fist. That isn't true, She told herself. You know it isn't. Rose had freed her from her service long before the war even properly began, back when they were waging a two-gem crusade to drive off Homeworld. She still chose to follow her. She had changed, more than she ever thought possible…
…but still. That did not mean it came easy to her.
She must have made some sort of noise, because Rose turned towards her with a frown. Her eyes widened in surprise when she saw her. "Pearl?" She asked, confused. Apparently she'd caught her unawares. "Is everything alright?"
Pearl hesitated, but gave Rose a warm smile. She walked over to her, silently sitting down in the grass beside her. They sat together quietly for a moment, savoring the moment of peace. Pearl held out a hand, catching a leaf in her palm.
This leaf's path was dictated from the moment it fell, She mused. The wind, the weight, the pull of the earth's gravity…all of it told a story, from start to finish of how it would reach the ground, down to every minute movement.
The leaf's fate was determined the moment it fell. It had no agency of its own…and yet, it never touched the ground. She had stopped it in its path, forever altering the course of its destiny. She blew lightly on the leaf, sending it floating gently off the cliff, and the wind carried it out to sea, in a path it was never meant to take.
"Sometimes," She said sadly. "What we think is certain, is anything but. We can go so long thinking we know it all…that nothing could possibly change what we think is certain. And then all of a sudden something else can come along and throw it all into chaos, changing it forever."
And sometimes, She thought. Sometimes, it happens twice.
Rose frowned in worry. "Pearl, is something wrong?"
She hung her head and sighed. "Oh, Rose," She smiled, shutting her eyes. "Please, tell me something…do you ever think about how we've spent our lives?"
Rose blinked in surprise. "...What?"
"I mean since the war," She clarified. "Not protecting the earth, or making our home here. I meant, do you ever think about us?" She swallowed nervously. "About what we used to be."
Rose darkened. "Some things are better left unsaid-"
"Not that," Pearl rolled her eyes in exasperation. Even now, she didn't see. "I meant us, together. Don't you remember?" She brought her knees up to her chest, holding them tightly. "We used to come down for weeks at a time. Laughing as we danced in streams and meadows. resting in strawberry fields, and climbing the tallest trees we could find."
Pearl smiled. "I remember the first time we saw snow," She snorted. "I was so appalled it was getting in my hair. And then you threw a snowball right in my face, and laughed at me. I swear, I must have stood there for five minutes before I recovered."
Rose smiled back. "I remember. You looked like a fish with its mouth caught open." She giggled. "At least, until you threw one right back at me. Stars, we must have spent hours that day just getting the snow off of us before we…" Her eyes flickered back to the Temple. "...before we had to leave," She finished vaguely.
Pearl paused, stewing on the memory for a moment, before she gathered the strength to continue. "Do you remember when we kissed after a meteor nearly crashed into us?"
"I…yes," Rose frowned. "What does that-"
"And later, when we found that little cave behind the waterfall," Pearl interrupted. "Do you remember how irritated I was when we got ourselves wet? You made us a fire. You were so happy, so proud of yourself. You did it just like the humans showed us. We can't get cold, but you took the time to do it anyway so we weren't soaked. Then you held me close and told me you wouldn't let go until we were dry."
"Pearl-"
"Then just before we met Garnet," She continued. Her voice was beginning to shake. "By then we knew we were going too far to go back to the way things were. We just didn't know how it would end up. We were so scared back then, and so excited. And whenever I was terrified you'd be hurt, you would kiss me and my fears would go away. And whenever I thought you must have made a mistake in choosing me, whenever I thought I was nothing but another Pearl…you showed me how to love the way humans love…you showed me things I didn't think was possible for our kind. It was magical, more than any healing tears could ever be."
Rose placed a hand on her shoulder in concern. "Of course I remember, Pearl…but what brought this on all of a sudden?"
She laughed. "All of a sudden…" Pearl echoed. She shook her head. "It isn't all of a sudden, Rose. That's the point, none of this is. Now please, tell me what happened."
"Pearl, something is wrong," Rose insisted. "Just tell me already so I can help-"
"Rose," Pearl said, grabbing Rose's hand and lifting it from her shoulder. She placed both of her hands around it, and held Rose's hand tightly. "I promise, I'll explain. But just tell me this first…what happened? What changed from then?"
Rose blinked. "The war, Pearl. We didn't have time for any of that. It was easy when it was just the two of us against Homeworld, but everything moved so fast after Garnet. First it was just us three, then we were a band of rebels. A band turned to a company, a fighting force, an army. Battles, raids, last stands and desperate measures. It took everything we had just to stay alive. We didn't have the time for anything else, but nothing changed between us. I still loved you. I still love you."
"So why did you never come back?" Pearl asked bitterly, tightening her grasp around Rose's hand. "I waited for you, but you never came back to me. After the war, we needed time. We all did, after what happened. I understood…but when we began to recover, you didn't turn to me. You turned to the humans."
"Pearl, it had been nearly a thousand years," Rose said, confused. "I thought you'd moved on. I loved what we had, but I thought it was over. Who would have waited so long for me, for anyone?"
"I did," Pearl whispered, tears beginning to form in her eyes. "I waited, all that time. And I've waited ever since. I've waited for you for six thousand years, Rose, but you never came back to me! I've loved you for so long. I told myself I could wait, I told myself the humans never mattered. Their lives were short, flickering things. Fragile. I was always there for you. I kept your secrets, I lived for you, nearly died for you thousands of times!"
Her eyes widened. "Pearl…"
"I love you, Rose. I love you so much it hurts just looking at you and knowing I can't hold you how I once did." She took a deep breath, and glanced up, trying to find the words to say next…
…and she froze. Behind Rose, past the cliff, out on the beach and just within the edge of her sight…was Greg's van, unmistakably parked in the sand. She hadn't seen him for days, hadn't said a word, and yet there he was anyway. Sitting there. Waiting.
For her.
Pearl looked at Rose and saw tears running down her face. "Stars, Pearl…" She whispered. "You never said anything. Six thousand years, and…and…you must have hurt so much."
"No," Pearl said quickly, then flinched. "I…yes, but it isn't your fault, Rose. Or if it is, it's as much mine as it is yours. I could have said something. I could have told you how I felt. I didn't need to…I didn't…" She trailed off, her eyes slowly widening as something began to turn in the back of her mind.
And then it clicked for her.
What do I think is going to make me happy? Such a simple question, such a complicated answer…but it didn't need to be.
She laughed, and Rose frowned. "Pearl?"
"I'm sorry," She snickered. She let go of Rose's hand, and sighed, shaking her head. "We really are ridiculous, aren't we?"
Rose blinked. "I…don't understand."
"I waited for you, Rose," Pearl said. "For such a long time. I love you. I don't think I'm ever going to stop loving you, to be completely honest. I don't think I could if I wanted to, and I certainly don't want to…but I can't keep waiting for you, either." Pearl stood up, smiling as she felt the wind blow past her. "I will always love you. I will always be right by your side, no matter what. But I can't keep doing what I have been."
She breathed out shakily. "I…I think I'm in love with Greg Universe." She shook her head. "No, I do love him. I might not know exactly what that means yet, and I don't know exactly what's going to happen…I mean, he's a human. I'm not you, I don't know much about them." A small smile spread across her face. "But I think I want to find out."
Rose was silent, frozen still. For a moment, Pearl's resolve faltered, terrified. Had she ruined things? Would Rose hate her now?
Slowly, Rose stood, a smile growing. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes, and she laughed as she wrapped her arms around Pearl, and spun her around.
"Gah!" Pearl yelped as she was thrown in the air. Rose caught her with a giggle, and placed her back down.
Rose brought her hands up, cupping Pearl's cheeks. She smiled warmly at her. "Pearl, I love you. To me, the love I have for you, for Garnet and Amethyst, it's no different from the love I've felt for the humans I've known over the years. I never stopped to think there was a difference…and I never stopped to think that it might be different for you. That it was different for you."
Pearl felt something wet run down her face, and Rose's thumb brushed against her cheek, wiping away the tear. "I never meant to hurt you. Stars no, of course not. All I've ever wanted was for you to be happy. I wanted us to be here and happy, together. I started the war for us, you know…"
Pearl's eyes widened. "You…you what?"
Rose laughed. "Is that really so hard to believe? Don't get me wrong, my main concern was saving the earth. Protecting the life here…but I was a little selfish, too. I wanted to have a place where we could be together. Just the two of us, with the earth all to ourselves."
"That sounds lovely," Pearl sighed. "But…that was a long time ago, Rose. And whatever it started as…"
"...Things sort of got out of hand," Rose admitted. "I never thought I'd wind up with an army. I never thought things would end up the way they did. Still…I don't regret it, Pearl. All these years I've wanted you to be happy. And if Mr. Universe is someone who can make you smile and laugh, and feel as strong and beautiful as I know you are, then I'm so happy you met him!"
"Then you don't…disapprove?" Pearl asked nervously.
Rose frowned. "Disapprove?" She echoed. "Why on earth would I disapprove?" She laughed. "Pearl, I've been trying to get you to warm up to humans for millenia. After six thousand years, you've met someone and fallen in love, with a human. Don't you see? That's why this planet is so special! Where else in the universe could something like this have possibly happened?" Rose smiled. "Listen to me…it wouldn't matter whether or not I approved. Never let anyone tell you who you should love, or how you should feel. I don't have any authority over you Pearl. And even if I did…then it wouldn't matter. Because I think the two of you will be wonderful together. I couldn't be happier for you Pearl."
Pearl shut her eyes, breathing out a sigh of relief. She reached up and took hold of Rose's hand, taking it from her face and giving it a squeeze. "I'm terrified," She admitted. "Loving you was always easy, Rose. Like it was always a part of me, one I always understood. But this…" She glanced past Rose, towards the Beach, and Greg's van. "This is new. I have no idea what's going to happen now…"
Rose grinned. "Isn't it exciting?"
A small, guilty smile wormed its way onto her face. "It is," She confessed.
Rose laughed, her hands falling down to take a hold of Pearl's. She met her eyes, and stared down at her for a moment. Pearl held her gaze, lost in Rose's eyes, every bit as smitten as she had been all the years they had known each other. The urge to jump up and kiss her was nearly overwhelming.
She realized with a start Rose was beginning to lean down, and she was looking up to meet her. Neither even realized what they were doing. She didn't need to lift a finger, only let it happen…
Pearl smiled sadly, pulling back. "Maybe one day," She said, and Rose blushed guiltily. "But not today. Today, I have someone waiting for me for a change. And I don't intend to keep him waiting any longer than I already have."
Rose stepped forward, embracing her once more. "Sorry," She apologized. "I didn't even know what was happening. Besides, you're right. You have someone else right now…so go and see him!" Rose let her go with a grin. "And don't think you're coming back without giving me every detail!"
Pearl rolled her eyes. Lovely. Apparently I can look forward to an interrogation when I return. "I doubt I'll be too long," She said, turning and beginning to make her way down the hill. "I'll see you later, Rose."
Something inside her began to thrum in anticipation with every step she took. I'm nervous, She realized.
She didn't know why. It wasn't as if she feared rejection. She already knew Greg was in love with her. And Rose had just told her she was happy for her, as was Garnet. Amethyst would inevitably tease her, but never maliciously. So why was she so nervous?
No…not nerves, Pearl mused. She wasn't nervous.
She was excited.
He dreamed he could reach the stars.
It was funny, really. It was everything he imagined. Flying through space, taking in the sight of the stars, of the planets never seen before. Passing asteroids and comets marked his passage, and the dead silence of space was more soothing than unnerving.
It was peaceful, quiet, calming. No one to judge him. No one to tell him what to do, or who he should be. He could travel through outer space for the rest of his life, and every little thing he saw would be something new.
He could spend a life among the cosmos, exploring things the human race was never meant to see. He could discover new planets, new galaxies, new life, even. Forget Empire City, and all that touring crap. The whole universe was his audience now…
…strangely, the thought that he would never live long enough to make it to the end of one galaxy never occurred to him. Those kinds of details mysteriously never popped up inside of dreams.
That didn't matter. All that mattered was that in that moment, he felt free, more free than he had ever felt before in his life. Only…someting was wrong. Something missing, something that left him hollow. And he wasn't quite sure what it was.
He looked around him. Something was different. It was colder now, the silence almost deafening. Looking out into the stars, he didn't feel excitement…but he didn't feel that awful, primordial dread he had expected looking out into the vast emptiness of space.
He just felt…lonely.
Greg turned back, frowning down at the earth. For so long, he'd wanted to get away. His entire life he'd fantasized about outer space, dreamed about getting away. Now he was finally there, and he wanted to go back? Why? Why would he ever want to go back?
Through the haze of the dream, an image came to him. The most beautiful woman he had ever seen in his life. She had peach-pink colored hair, and a mysterious stone set in her forehead. She smiled at him, and he knew in an instant he'd never see anything half so lovely for the rest of his life, not if he travelled to the ends of the universe.
He frowned. He knew her, but he couldn't remember from where. Was she on earth? She had to be, if he recognized her. But how could someone like her be real? And why would he bother going out into space if someone like her lived down there?
Maybe that was why something felt wrong. Greg took one last look out into space, but the wonder and awe he had felt before had faded. It all felt too hollow, knowing that strange woman was back on earth. He didn't need the stars, or the planets, or the mysteries of outer space.
For some reason his dream-self couldn't remember, he had the strongest feeling that all he really needed was that woman.
He turned back towards the earth, ignoring the call of space. That excitement, that feeling of freedom, that wonder, all of it dulled, falling away out of his notice. All he could think about was that woman.
He felt himself fall back to earth, and a smile crossed his face. He shut his eyes, letting his mind fill with nothing but the memory of that woman's smile.
Greg opened his eyes to find Pearl a few inches away from his face, staring down blankly at him.
His eyes widened in surprise and he tried to sit up, only to smack his forehead into hers. "Ah!" He gasped, wincing in pain. He'd felt something sharp knock into his skull…oh crap, was that her gem? "Pearl!" He exclaimed, rubbing his forehead. "How long have you been there?"
She leaned back, folding her hands in her lap. "Twenty-two minutes," She said calmly, apparently not at all thrown off guard by his startled reaction.
He blinked. "Twenty-two minutes," He echoed. "And you just…sat there? Right next to me, on top of my van?"
"Yes," She smiled.
"Pearl, that's the sort of thing that humans would expect an explanation for."
"Oh!" Pearl's eyes widened. "My apologies." She cleared her throat. "I was watching you sleep."
"...and why were you watching me sleep?" He questioned.
"I wanted to," Pearl answered. "I was coming to speak with you, but you looked so adorable while you were sleeping…I couldn't wake you up."
Greg sat up with a groan. "Right…well, for future reference, most humans don't like when you watch them sleep. It creeps them out."
Pearl's eyes widened, and her voice took a worried tone. "Did I…creep you out?"
He laughed. "You kind of stopped doing that when I found out you were an alien rock who's been alive for thousands of years. You surprised me, yeah, but you didn't creep me out."
Her shoulders loosened, and she breathed out a sigh of relief. "Good. I…I wouldn't want to make you uncomfortable." She frowned. "Speaking of…does sleeping on the roof of your van not harm you?" She placed a hand on the metal, which the setting sun had heated. "I was under the impression humans had a low tolerance for high heat."
"Oh, we do," Greg told her. "But I'm used to sitting out in the sun. My hair basically acts as a blanket anyway. But who cares about that?" He smiled. "It's good to see you again. I was starting to get a little worried, you know…"
She reddened, lowering her head. "I…I'm sorry," She apologized.
"Hey, it's fine!" Greg assured her quickly. "I'm sure you were just busy on one of your missions. Protecting the earth is more important than-"
"I was avoiding you," Pearl blurted, cutting him off. "I…didn't mean to. And yes, there was a mission or two, but nothing really troublesome." She took a careful breath. "I tried to keep things normal after…after the other night. I really did, but I couldn't."
He felt something drop in his stomach. "Oh," He said, his voice much quieter. "I…I understand."
"No," Pearl said, her voice cracking. "No, you don't. You couldn't possibly understand. I've loved Rose for over six thousand years, Greg. I've waited for her for so, so long. But I can't keep waiting for her. For something that might never come. I love her, but I want to be happy. You…you made me want to be happy."
She smiled, tears forming in the corner of her eyes. "You really are amazing, Mr. Universe."
He frowned. "Me?"
"Yes, you!" She laughed, wiping her eyes. "Greg…I never stopped to think about any of this before I met you. Gems…change doesn't come easy to us. For so long I was just Rose's Knight, and I was happy with that. I'm still happy with that…but you made me realize I could want more. I could have more. With your silly songs, and your jokes, and the little things you do to make me smile. It makes me feel special, in a way that no one other than Rose ever has done before."
She smiled at him, and he found he couldn't quite remember how to speak in that moment. "Maybe…maybe love comes easy to people like Rose. Maybe it comes easy to you. But it's never come easy to me. All I've ever had was Rose…so when I began to think about the way you made me feel, I didn't understand any of it."
He froze. Is she saying…?
"But I understand now," Pearl said, ignorant of his inner conflict. "Or at least, better than I did." She held her hands together, nervously playing with her fingers. "I-I'm still not quite sure what any of it means. I don't know what's going to happen, or if this is really a good idea, or If I've just gone completely insane…but…"
She sighed. "Greg, I love you." His eyes widened in surprise, and he felt his heart leap in his chest. "I was scared of it. I thought it would make me…disloyal to Rose, somehow. We hardly even know each other. But I spoke with Garnet, and Rose, and I've realized something…that I don't need to wait forever. I'm tired of it. I just want to be happy…and you make me happy, Greg."
One of her hands slid down, lacing through his fingers with her own, and he felt like his entire ground to a screeching halt. "I'm not human. I'm not sure of myself, like you or Rose are. You're both so…so quick to change. Like it's nothing to you, as easy as stepping through a door." She bit her lip. "But…you're like me, too. Lost. You met me, and you treated me like I was the most wonderful thing in your life. I couldn't understand why, not when you'd met Rose, and Garnet, and who knows however many humans…but then I realized. You think of me, the same way I think of Rose. And everything sort of clicked."
"I am always going to love Rose," She continued. "I'm sorry. I don't…I can't stop myself from loving her. And I can't stop myself from loving you. And if that drives you away, I understand, really. I wouldn't blame you. But…even if I can't stop myself from caring for the both of you…I can choose between you. Or rather, I can choose for myself…and I choose to try something new. Something terrifying. Something exciting." She smiled at him nervously. "Greg…I would like to be with you, if you would want the same."
He was silent for a long time, struggling to take in everything she had told him. He felt like he was dreaming. Like any second he'd wake up, and he'd have a good laugh at himself for coming up with something so impossible.
He swallowed nervously, and spoke. "I don't expect you to change at all," He told her. "I totally get it if none of this comes easy to you. It's not like it comes any easier to me." He flashed her a grin. "I know it's hard to believe, but I haven't met many aliens before." Pearl giggled. "I don't want you to make yourself stop loving Rose. Not if it hurts you. She's a part of you, neither of us can really change that. I'm never going to blame you for feeling the way you feel."
Greg stood up with a groan, bringing Pearl up with him. He smiled, looking down into her eyes. "Maybe you're right. This is crazy, to be honest. We'd have to be at least a little insane to think this would ever work." Fear flashed across her face for the briefest of moments, before he continued. "But you're a magical alien warrior who's actually a rock. You left your home behind to live on earth. I had a bright future ahead of me and left it all behind to go on tour. And when I finally had a shot at making it big, I left that behind too, all because I met you. I think we're well past the point of being able to call either of us completely sane…so why not try something a little crazy?"
Her eyes widened. "You mean…?"
"I love you, Pearl," Greg told her. "I knew it from almost the moment we met. That night at Funland was one of the best nights of my life. I don't care if it's gonna be hard. I'm sure there's going to be a huge learning curve. It might be a little crazy, it might not even work." He smiled. "But I know I'd never be able to live with myself if I didn't at least try."
"So…" Pearl said nervously, almost shaking. "That's it then? We're…really going to do this?"
"That's it," He told her.
"Well then," She cleared her throat. "In that case…there's nothing to stop me from doing this." She stood up on the tips of her toes, grabbing his shirt and pulling him down. His eyes widened just as she pressed her lips against his, and all semblance of thought left him, as he let himself be lost in the kiss.
He didn't know how long they stood like that, holding each other on top of his van. He knew it felt like forever…but it ended, far, far too soon.
His eyes widened in surprise as he felt his foot slipping. "Woah!" He flailed wildly, trying to regain his balance. He fell back, his back landing in the sand of the beach. Pearl landed on top of him a second later with a yelp, his hands dragging her down with him.
The two of them froze, staring into each other's eyes. All of a sudden, he began to laugh. A few moments later, Pearl joined him. He sat up, and they untangled themselves from each other, laughing all the while.
"You know, you'd think I'd have better balance after running around and jumping on stage all the time," He said in between fits of laughter.
"You?" Pearl giggled. "I can't believe I fell with you. I normally have perfect balance. I mean, I've lived for thousands and thousands of years…"
"Eh, I guess we could have picked a better place to have a talk like that," He admitted. "Not much room on top of my van, unfortunately."
Pearl laughed, and laid her head on his shoulder, as the two of them sat there on the beach, staring off into the sea. "Let's just stay like this a while," She said. "Just the two of us, sitting here. I like this."
He smiled. "I like it too," He agreed.
They sat there, watching as the tide ran up almost to their feet before receding. Listening to the rush of the water. He had no idea what it was like for her, and he had no idea what the future was going to bring, bad or good.
All he knew was that right then, at that moment, he didn't think anyone who had ever lived could have possibly been more content than he was watching the water with Pearl.
He grinned. I could get used to this.
Alright! Pearl and Greg are officially dating! Couple of things to talk about. First off, while I know where this story is going, I have two specific ideas for how it ends. I'm also not sure how long I'm going to make this. Definitely not going to end it within the next few chapters or anything like that, but I'm also not going to drag it out.
The rest of the story is going to be exploring Greg and Pearl's relationship, and how it affects them/the gems. Importantly, It's all going to be leading up to Steven's birth, which is still ABSOLUTELY going to happen. Won't go into more detail than that, though.
I've got a few ideas for the next handful of chapters to come, but just so everyone knows, it may be a teensy bit of a longer wait. I have other stories I've been neglecting that I've been needing to get around to.
Now, mind you, that might not be relevant. The next chapter might come out in a week-ish like most of them have. It might not. I'm saying this now just so we're all clear if it DOES wind up coming a little later, so everyone knows that it's not because I'm not working on it. Because I AM. This is my favorite fic I'm working on right now. To write, anyways.
As always, I'm open to answer any questions that don't go into spoilers. Thanks for reading!
Chapter Text
Greg sneezed, almost falling off the side of the boat before Yellowtail caught him, helping him keep his balance. "Meh?"
Greg sniffed, then gave him a thumbs up. "No, I'm alright Yellowtail. Thanks for the hand though…" He glanced behind him, down into the water and grinned. "Wasn't particularly planning on going for a swim."
"Ma-ma ma ma-ma," Yellowtail murmured.
He frowned. "Er…I'm guessing you're thanking me for helping out?"
Yellowtail nodded, and Greg grinned. "Hey, it's no problem! Can't have a festival celebration without some fireworks, and if the town wants to launch them from your boat, I may as well lend you a hand. Besides, I need the cash anyway."
Yellowtail gave him a pat on the back, and helped him back onto the dock. Immediately, Greg sighed in relief at the feeling of standing back on solid ground. "Man, I don't know how you do that all day," He laughed. "I don't think the ocean's really my jam."
"Ma," Yellowtail shrugged.
Greg placed his hands on his hips, smiling proudly as a feeling of accomplishment washed over him. "What did I tell you? The two of us could set up the fireworks, no problem at all!" They may have been cutting it a little bit close, but they still managed to get it done with a few hours to spare, so he counted it as a win in his book. "Eight pm is when the light show begins, right?"
Yellowtail nodded, then gave him a strange look. "Ma-ma?" Greg frowned in confusion, then Yellowtail pointed towards him.
"Oh!" He said in realization. "Well yeah I'm gonna be there! I didn't go through the trouble of helping set it all up just to skip out on the fun." He scratched the back of his head nervously. "Besides…I've only been in Beach City a couple months now. I still don't really know a lot of people, and it feels a little weird butting in with how close-knit everyone is…but there's no way I'm gonna miss my first big festival in town!"
"That's the spirit!," Greg turned and found one of the few people he had met walking towards them with a cheery smile.
"Hey Fryman!" Greg greeted. "I was just talking with Yellowtail about the festival."
"I heard," He laughed. "Honestly, don't sweat it. Doesn't take long to become one of us. Most people who come to Beach City either get out quick as they came, or stick around. Trust me, you'll fit in just fine."
"Thanks," He said, genuinely appreciative of the man's words. Though he still didn't know very many people around town yet, Fryman had definitely been the most welcoming, always willing to give him a few extra bucks for cleaning up his shop after hours, or helpfully pointing him around town as he slowly got used to his new surroundings. "I hope I'll be seeing you tonight?"
Fryman laughed. "Aw man, I keep forgetting how long it's been since someone new came around!"
He frowned. "I don't get it…?"
"Everyone's coming to the festival," Fryman explained. "Or almost everyone. It's a small town, so whenever something big happens, everyone's gonna wanna be a part of it."
"Ma?" Greg turned to find Yellowtail looking at him expectantly.
"Uh…what's up?" He asked hesitantly. Yellowtail pointed to him again, and Greg's eyes widened. "Oh, I already said I was coming!"
Yellowtail shook his head, and pointed to his nose, then extended his arm. Greg tilted his head in confusion. "Okay, now you lost me," He confessed.
"He's asking if you're gonna bring that girl with you tonight," Fryman translated. "You know, one of those ones who live over on the other side of the Beach? The tiny one, with the pointy nose."
Greg blinked in surprise. "Oh! You mean Pearl…" The nose thing makes sense now. "Do they ever come out to this sort of thing?"
"The big one with the pink hair does sometimes," Fryman said. "But never for long, and it's more like a storm passing through than a trip into town. She comes by for a few hours, runs around smiling and asking a bunch of questions, then leaves just as quickly as she came."
Greg chuckled. "Yeah…that sounds about right." He hadn't spent much time with the other gems, but from what he had seen, Rose seemed very much like a force of nature. According to Pearl, she was also the only one of the gems that semi-regularly went into town.
He had thought Pearl and the others might have gone to one of Beach City's festivals at some point, but apparently not…
"Well?"
He blinked, turning back to Fryman. "Sorry? I didn't catch that." Too wound up in his own thoughts…
Fryman chucked. "I was asking if you were ever gonna answer Yellowtail. Are you gonna be bringing any guests?"
Greg frowned. "Er…I'm not really sure if she's gonna have the time for it," He said. "She's usually pretty busy." He didn't think the gems were out on a mission, but those came up all the time without warning. And even if they weren't, he wasn't entirely sure Pearl would even want to go to a festival like this.
Fryman shrugged. "You'd know better than I would. Still, everyone needs a break every now and then, don't they? Maybe you should at least ask her if she wants to come. What's the worst that could happen?"
Huh…he made a pretty good point, actually. What was the worst that could happen? Everything had been going pretty smoothly lately. He and Pearl had been getting closer, slowly but surely. She already loved music, and he was getting her warmed up by going into town once in a while. It could be fun for her.
Besides, it wouldn't really feel right going to his first big gathering in Beach City without her coming with. Rose and the other gems might wanna come too.
Greg smiled. The more he thought about it, the more the idea appealed to him.
Hm…for all the time they've been on earth, I wonder if Pearl's ever seen fireworks?
She waited calmly by the beach, standing with her hands behind her back, humming quietly to herself with a smile. The sun had just dipped beneath the horizon, but dusk still gave some light.
Pearl shut her eyes, sighing in content as a light breeze blew past her. Since meeting Greg, she'd been spending more and more time out of the Temple, whether it be on the beach, or out in the woods, or more rarely going out into town once or twice. She hadn't realized just how much time she spent either in the Temple or out on missions. It was refreshing to simply go out and enjoy herself for the sake of it.
I suppose that's why Amethyst enjoys it so much…
"Yo, P!"
Pearl sighed, opening her eyes. "How does that saying of Greg's go?" She muttered to herself. "Talk of the devil?" Hm…what was a devil anyway?
"Pearl!" Amethyst called again, her voice closer now. "You got ears, or did you like get rid of them or something?"
She scoffed. "Amethyst, you know I don't shapeshift."
"So you did hear me?" Amethyst grinned, walking in front of her with her arms crossed.
Pearl rolled her eyes. "Is there something I can help you with?"
"Nah…just seeing what you're up to," Amethyst said. "Garnet and I were gonna go eat rocks. Wanna come?"
She twisted her face up in disgust. "Amethyst, I could not think of a less appealing prospect if I had until the end of time to think it over."
"Technically, Amethyst would be the one eating the rocks," Garnet said as she joined them, adjusting her visor. "We'd be punching them at her. Very hard. While she tries to catch them with her mouth."
Pearl hummed in thought. The opportunity to launch a bunch of heavy objects at Amethyst as hard as she could…"I admit, that is far more enticing," She confessed. "But I still have to decline. Greg should be here any moment."
Amethyst groaned. "Dude, who cares? Just tell him you're busy or something."
"I am busy," Pearl said. "With Greg."
"Come on!" She pleaded. "You've been hanging out with him all the time, you never do anything with the rest of us anymore unless we're on missions. It's getting super boring."
Pearl smiled lightly. "As I recall, you always complained my presence was what made things boring. I'd think you should be pleased I'm spending a little time away…and weren't you the one who was literally crawling over Greg when he first came here?"
"Well yeah, but that was back then," Amethyst said. "He isn't all that exciting anymore."
"Not to you, maybe."
Amethyst rolled her eyes. "This is getting ridiculous. Even Rose doesn't get so hung up over her humans."
She raised an eyebrow. "First off, Greg is most certainly not my human. And honestly, you're being dramatic. So what if I spend a bit more of my time out of the Temple than I did before? It really isn't that big of a deal."
"But-"
Garnet placed a hand on Amethyst's shoulder, cutting her off. "Amethyst," She said calmly. "Remind me what we were talking about earlier."
Amethyst sighed, crossing her arms. "Not pushing Pearl…" She grumbled.
"Now tell me why we were talking about it…"
"...because we should be happy for her," Amethyst finished, looking away.
Garnet nodded. "I think it's beautiful that Pearl has managed to find a human she cares for so much. We should be glad she's opening up more."
Pearl blushed, beginning to stammer. "D-Don't you think you're making this out to be rather serious?"
Garnet tilted her head. "Isn't it?"
"I…well…" She was saved from having to answer by the sight of Greg's van pulling up, and she sighed in relief. "Greg!" She greeted as he hopped out. "It's good to see you!"
He smiled back at her. "Hey Pearl!" He glanced behind her. "Hey Amethyst and Garnet!"
"Sup," Amethyst muttered awkwardly, looking away while Garnet gave him a silent thumbs up.
Just focus on tonight, Pearl told herself, trying to ignore Amethyst and Garnet's prying. She put on a smile. "So…did you have a nice day then?" She asked him, practicing some of the human pleasantries Greg had been teaching her.
"It's been pretty good so far," Greg said. "Pretty uneventful outside of helping Yellowtail set up some of the fireworks for tonight's festival. I nearly took a dip in the ocean, but I made a few extra bucks, so I guess it's a decent trade-off." He paused, then after a moment his eyes widened. "Right, the festival!"
"What about it?" Pearl questioned.
"I was gonna ask if you wanted to come!" Greg grinned.
This time it was her turn for her eyes to widen in shock. "Me?" She held a hand to her chest in disbelief. "Oh Greg, those human celebrations aren't quite my thing."
Amethyst scoffed. "Weren't you just going on about how you're spending so much more time out of the Temple now?"
"I am!" She defended. "That…that doesn't mean…"
"What?" Amethyst pressed her. "Spit it out already! If you wanna just spend all your time with your little human friend, then just say so!"
"Ah geez…" Greg winced, scratching the back of his head. "I'm sorry. I didn't realize this would start a fight. Tell you what, I'll just go now, and see you again in the morning…"
"No," Pearl growled, crossing her arms as she glared at Amethyst. "As a matter of fact, I think I will join you, Greg. And we are going to have a lovely night together!"
"Good!" Amethyst shouted. "I hope you have a beautiful evening!"
"Thank you!" Pearl yelled back. "I most certainly will!"
"Oh, stop this already, will you?" A voice asked from behind them, and Pearl froze.
"Rose-" She tried to speak, but was cut off once more.
"What's going on?" Rose asked, walking over with a frown. "I heard the yelling, but…"
"Um…hi," Greg waved awkwardly. "I think this is kind of my fault."
Rose blinked, then frowned. "I don't understand. How is this the human's fault?"
"It isn't," Pearl insisted. "Amethyst simply doesn't understand the concept of privacy."
"Funny, I was just thinking Pearl doesn't know what friends are," Amethyst shot back. "Friends don't normally ditch friends to go hang out with a stranger!"
"Oh for the love of-you're asking me to do the same thing with you!" Pearl protested. "It isn't as if we even had anything planned in the first place! And Greg is not a stranger!"
"He is to us," Amethyst argued.
She growled. "Maybe he wouldn't be if you put in the slightest effort to get to know him!"
"I've heard enough," Rose sighed, shaking her head. "Mr. Universe, I'm sorry you got caught up in the middle of this. I promise you, this isn't your fault."
"What?" Amethyst screwed up her face in confusion. "Of course it-"
"Amethyst," Garnet said sharply. "Pearl…both of you knock it off."
"She started it!" They said in unison, gesturing towards the other.
"...and I'm going to finish it," Rose said. "Both of you, there's no reason to yell at each other over this."
"...especially when neither of you even bothered to let Mr. Universe finish his sentence," Garnet interrupted, causing them all to look towards her. After a moment of silence, she nodded towards Greg. "Go on," She said. "You can say it."
He blinked in surprise. "How did you…?" He shook his head. "No, it's fine. I think I've caused enough problems as it is…"
"Mr. Universe," Rose said, bending down to his eye level. "I already told you, this isn't your fault. Pearl will explain later, I'm sure, but sometimes we let things get out of hand. But if you had something you wanted to say, I promise it won't do any harm in saying it."
He still looked unconvinced, but Pearl gave him a reassuring nod, and he smiled back shakily. "Well…I wasn't just going to ask Pearl. I was gonna see if the rest of you wanted to come with as well."
That caused them all to fall into silence. Except for Garnet, that is, who only smirked.
"...you were?" Rose asked.
"Yeah!" Greg said, some of his confidence returning. "I mean, I'm sure it's nothing exciting for you guys or anything, but I figured it might be nice to get out of the Temple once in a while. And some of the people around town mentioned you don't get into the city all that much, but you guys have been here since before there was a city. I thought you might want to see what a Beach City fireworks show looks like at least once."
Pearl smiled. "That's very thoughtful of you, Greg." She shot a smug look at Amethyst, but dropped it as soon as Rose looked back at her.
"Yeah, whatever," Amethyst rolled her eyes. "Thanks, I guess, but we'll pa-"
"We'll absolutely come!" Rose said cheerfully.
"...you've gotta be kidding me," Amethyst groaned.
"Sorry, what?" Pearl blinked in surprise.
"Come on, it'll be fun!" Rose said, trying to cheer them up. "In fact…I think this is just what we need!"
Amethyst blew her hair out of her face with an unimpressed look. "Right. Because spending the night with a bunch of humans just sounds like so much fun…"
Rose sighed. "Amethyst, you're always complaining you don't get to spend enough time in town."
She reddened. "That's different!"
"I think it's a good idea," Garnet said, interjecting. "We haven't had a proper night off in a while. It's been too long since we've spent a decent amount of time around the people we're supposed to protect. Besides, Mr. Universe is important to Pearl, which means he's important to us. We ought to put in the effort to get to know him."
"Yes!" Rose cheered, jumping into the air. "We're gonna have so much fun!"
Amethyst grumbled, kicking a foot lazily in the sand. "I guess…"
Greg looked at her nervously, and Pearl gave him an awkward smile. "Well…I suppose we're going to your celebration after all. Isn't this…exciting?"
The two of them watched as Rose hurried over to his van. "It's been a while since I've been in one of these…they used to be powered by horses, you know. Let's see, I think you just…" She tried to open the back door of the van, but pulled too hard, accidentally ripping the door off the hinges.
Greg winced, and Rose squeaked in surprise. "It's okay!" She said quickly. "I can fix that later!"
Beside her, Greg sighed. "That door always got stuck anyway…"
The drive from one side of the beach to the other wasn't all that long. In fact, he hadn't intended on driving down in the first place, but Rose had torn off the door and already climbed in, so he figured they may as well.
Pearl rode shotgun, seatbelt buckled and hands folded patiently in her lap. Garnet and Amethyst sat in the back close to each other, but Rose was too big, needing to stay near the back of the van in order to fit.
He glanced up at the mirror nervously. "You sure you're good, Rose? I don't want you falling out."
Rose giggled. "That's sweet of you, but I've fallen from a floating coliseum before and been just fine. I think I'll manage."
"Right…" He cleared his throat, acutely aware he was sweating nervously. He hadn't really spent much time with the other gems…this was his chance to make a good impression. "W-What about you two? Amethyst? Garnet? Is everything alright back there?"
"The car's moving," Amethyst said irritably. "That's what they're supposed to do, right? Then everything's fine."
"What Amethyst meant to say is that we're both comfortable," Garnet said. "Don't worry about us. Focus on the night to come."
The night to come…
That was easier said than done. He'd invited the gems along pretty much on a whim, and while he still thought it was a good idea to try and get to know them a little more, he'd obviously picked a bad time. Amethyst wasn't exactly subtle about her displeasure in being dragged along, despite Rose and Garnet's assurances everything was going to work out.
He hadn't just wanted to invite the gems. He'd wanted to make this a nice night for Pearl.
A small crowd came into view, gathered near a pier. He slowed down, pulling up a small distance away and taking a deep breath. You got this, He told himself. We're gonna have a great night, you're gonna impress the gems, and everyone's gonna love the fireworks!
"Alrighty," He breathed out in a sigh, unbuckling his seatbelt. "We're here, everyone."
"Ooh, I'm so excited!" Rose laughed, climbing out of the back of the van, which lifted several inches once her weight had left it. "Humans always know how to have a good time."
"I know how to have a good time," Amethyst pointed out. "We could just have easily had fun back at the Temple."
"It's not just about fun," Garnet said. "It's about involving ourselves with the humans. And being there for Pearl."
"Exactly!" Rose agreed. "So come on, I wanna go see what everyone is standing around for!" Without another word, she took off in the direction of the gathering crowd. Garnet followed behind her, and after a moment's hesitation, Amethyst did the same.
Pearl sighed beside him. "I'm sorry about all this," She apologized. "If I had known Amethyst would make a big deal out of it…"
"No, it's fine, really!" He assured her. "I really did want the others to come along tonight. It's probably for the best that things turned out the way they did…" He frowned, glancing back at Amethyst. "...even if it could have gone a little smoother."
"I suppose what's done is done," Pearl nodded. "At least she's giving it a chance. Still…I don't understand what has her so wound up. Normally she's the one so curious about humans. I know she sneaks out into town sometimes to watch them even after we warn her not to. She can be so immature…"
Greg perked up curiously. "That reminds me about something I've been meaning to ask, if you don't mind…"
Pearl shrugged. "Go ahead."
"What exactly are you guys to each other?" He asked. "I mean, I know you and Rose are kind of complicated, but are you and Garnet like sisters or something? Is Amethyst like a Gem's version of a teenager?"
She frowned. "What?"
"It's just that you always say you guys are a family," He explained. "I know it's not literal, but It's a little hard for me to grasp exactly what you guys are to each other."
"We're…gems," She said.
"I know that," Greg said with a laugh. "Is Amethyst like a kid sister? And Garnet, a mysterious cousin? Or do you just all see yourselves as friends?"
"We're friends, of course…" Pearl said. "But I don't know what you mean by those other terms. I thought a sister was a biological relative to an individual?"
"Well…yeah," Greg frowned. "But…"
"...then it's impossible for us to have sisters," Pearl said, cutting him off. "Gem's aren't biological."
"I was speaking more in a spiritual sense," He said.
Pearl blinked at him in confusion. "You lost me."
"Hm…gimme a second," He said, as they began walking over to the crowd. Now how to explain this to her…he'd been spending a lot of time recently explaining human things to Pearl, and he was starting to get pretty good at it. The trick was to keep things simple.
"I meant it in more in terms of relationships than in a literal sense," He explained. "Like…siblings are family. They tease each other, argue, fight, but they'll still stick up for one another whenever things get serious. Some people have friends who act more like family than their actual family."
A look of understanding crossed her face. "So some humans are made to fit into a certain mold with their family…and sometimes, they find that by leaving it, they find others who suit them more."
"Er…kind of," He agreed. "Close enough, at least."
"I think I can understand that part, at least," Pearl smiled. "But I swear, the more I learn about humans, the less I feel I know."
"Believe me, it makes even less sense being born one," Greg said, earning a reserved light chuckle from Pearl. He cleared his throat. "Before we get to the crowd, I did want to ask you something else."
"Yes?"
"Are you…okay with it?" He asked. "The crowd, I mean. I know you had a good time at funland, but that was a bit different, and I know you were starting to get a little uncomfortable at the end. You sort of got pushed into coming along tonight what with Rose and the others coming, but if you'd rather just hang out back at the Temple, we can just go." He wanted to have a good night, but he didn't want to make things weird for Pearl.
She grew quiet for a moment, before finally giving him a smile. "That's very nice of you to consider, but I want to be here, Greg. I've spent six thousand years protecting this planet, I think I can survive a few hours around a handful of humans. Besides…" She blushed, taking his hand in hers. "...I wanted to spend tonight with you. And not just at the Temple like we always do…you're human, Greg. The city, the people, all of this…it's an important part of your life. If I don't at least try to understand it a little better, how am I ever going to get to know you better?"
Greg smiled back at her. "Gee, I thought I was a sap…"
Her smile vanished, and a look of panic flashed across her face. "Is that a…good thing?" She asked nervously, unsure of what he meant.
He laughed, planting a kiss on her cheek. "It's a great thing," he told her. "I think it's adorable. Now…are you ready for an unforgettable night?"
She raised an eyebrow. "That's quite the promise, Mr. Universe…are you sure you can deliver?"
He opened his mouth to answer her, but just then another voice rang out loudly. "Greg!" The familiar voice of Fryman greeted him, and he turned to face the jovial man. "Glad to see you made it! And you brought your friend after all…"
Pearl leaned over with a strange look on her face, never taking her eyes off of Fryman. "...do you know who this loud human is?" She whispered.
"Yeah, he's a friend of mine!" Greg said. "Pearl, meet Fryman, he's been helping me out with getting settled into town. And Fryman, this is Pearl! She's my…er…" He swallowed nervously, not quite sure of how to introduce her. They were dating, yeah, but it still felt kind of weird to call her his girlfriend. "I guess she's-"
"Greg and I are romantic partners," Pearl said, sparing him the trouble of explaining himself. "And I believe I've met you before…"
"I've seen you and those other ladies out on the beach and around town a few times, but I don't think we've ever been properly introduced," Fryman said.
Pearl frowned, then shook her head. "No, I'm quite certain we've met. You were much younger though, perhaps you've forgotten. You used to wear glasses, and run around in those hideous striped overalls."
Fryman shifted uncomfortably, coughing into his fist. "My, uh…grandpa used to wear glasses, and he wore striped overalls when he was a kid. That's the only person I can think of who dressed like that in this town."
"Oh." Pearl blinked in surprise. "...my apologies. It must have been longer than I thought since I did something like this…."
"But you're here now!" Greg cut in, hoping to change the subject. "We can have a nice, fun night, where we can all sit back and enjoy the…the…" His voice trailed off as he spotted Yellowtail, who was frantically gesturing for him to come over, pointing to his boat hurriedly.
Was there something wrong with the fireworks?
"Er…tell you what, do you mind if I go take care of something for a little bit Pearl?" He asked. "I think Yellowtail needs my help."
Startled at the swift change, she shook her head after a moment's pause.. "No, not at all. I'll just…be here, I suppose. Socializing."
He grinned. "You're the best! I'll be back as soon as I can."
And if he were lucky, he'd manage to do just what he promised…
…he'd give her a night she'd never forget.
Been a bit of a longer wait for this one, though I have an excellent reason: Refracted Light, my other Steven Universe fic, has begun its first major arc and I sort of got carried away, lol. If you like this story, check it out! It's really starting to pick up steam now.
Onto less pleasant news. I'm going to have to send my laptop in for repairs in a few days, and that's going to obviously have an impact on my writing. Can't really write if there's nothing to write with, after all. I'm not sure when, as I'm waiting for the warranty company to send me the shipping materials, but sometime within the next four days it should get here, and after that it could be anywhere from three to seven days until I get it back. Sucks, but what can you do.
Fair warning, because of this and Refracted Light, it may be a longer wait for the next chapter as well. It may also be a slightly shorter chapter, probably around this one in terms of length, or at worst a few hundred words shorter. Or maybe I'm crazy and It winds up even longer, lol. We'll see.
Thank you all for reading, and if you're enjoying the story, please leave a comment or a review! I read through them all, and I really do appreciate it!
I hope you enjoy what's to come as much as I'm enjoying writing it.
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