Warnings - Reader does get really uncomfortable with physical intimacy from another character, it does bring them to the point of breaking down. Slight (and by slight i mean VERY slight) sexual implications but nothing unsanitary or unholy.
18+ users, and proshippers/gross people please dni
Note - ITS BEEN 3000 YEARS,,, i got SUPER busy with school then went on an unplugged trip!! INCREDIBLY SORRY for the long wait! i rlly hope its worth it this was originally supposed to be ari fanservice but… no…. N E WAYZ READ
Summary - Camilo is any other 15 year old boy; hormonal, annoying, and a complete and utter jerk. Being the cousin of your best friend, you have to deal with him a lot- but it’s not like you really mind. At all.
Sitting down in the chair facing the mirror, you ran your brush carefully through your h/c hair. You had just changed out of your uniform and into more comfortable clothes (opting for shorts, a theater t-shirt, and sneakers), and were sitting in front of the vanity in the dressing room before practice. It was a long day; you had a few tests, your socks came back wet after volleyball, and you were very sweaty for whatever reason that particular day. You were extremely tired- but it was okay. You had rehearsal, and today they were moving forward in scene progression. Your water bottle sat in front of you, so you went ahead and grabbed it- taking a swig.
You leaned forward in your chair, putting your hands on your face as your elbows reached the vanity. The other girls changing in here had come in and out, but you were sure to be alone now as their scenes had started a couple of minutes ago. You yourself had a few minutes before you needed to be on stage, taking a little break to get ready. You adjusted yourself to sit crossed legged, and sighed.
Yeah, you were exhausted.
It was Thursday evening. Sort of the start of the couple days you had been looking forward to. In rehearsal, the cast was going to run through the kissing scene for blocking- which would be smooth and super fun, since the one you had to kiss was Camilo. You guys already had a little “impromptu” practice in for that already. Tomorrow evening, you’d be having dinner with Camilo’s family. Your parents had said yes, as long as Camilo had you home before nine. You giggled to yourself in nervousness as the butterflies crept up your stomach; you had met at least miss Pepa before, and it was when she practically broke into Mirabel’s house during one of your sleepovers to tell Julieta something “urgent” (all you knew what that it pertained to hair).
You knew she’d recognize you, but you also didn’t know how much Camilo had told her about you- so you were excited to see how things would play out. Mister Felix sounded like a ball of sunshine, and you died of heart convulsions every time Camilo would fawn over Antonio. You didn’t know if his older sister Dolores would be there or not, and he said the same thing- she lived in a different part of town, and had a busy life with her kid and her job as an audiologist. He had invited her, but also understood completely if she couldn’t make it.
Aside from that, this was a rehearsal you were looking forward to. The previous had been pretty tedious, and didn’t really involve your character much- which had you on the side either watching or helping with the stage as they worked Camilo to the brim. When the understudies came in, you tensed as you felt the shift in dynamic with Ari’s presence onstage.
Bitterness. Anger. Envy.
Ari.
You were pretty sure that Ari wouldn’t be too involved today. You knew he’d seen you guys making out by the janitor’s closet, and it kind of messed with you a bit. You didn’t mean to hurt him- but you probably did. The thought of Ari upset you, so you tried getting your mind off of him.
Knock knock knock.
The abrupt knocking at the door made you turn around in your seat.
“Who is it?” You called out, running your fingers through your hair as you expected it to be someone telling you that Doc Bruno was ready for you onstage.
“Your mom.” A familiar voice rang out from behind the door- a voice that put a smile on your face. You rolled your eyes at the stupid joke, and got up from your seat to open the door for him. You pulled down on the handle, and there he stood.
The tall boy lounged against the doorframe with his arm on the wall like a “bad boy” (it made you roll your eyes until you almost blacked out). He was dressed comfortably, out of his uniform. He wore an Encanto Valley Capybaras athletic shirt, athletic shorts that raised only a little bit above his knee, long socks that corresponded with his outfit, and vans. He was dressed like the average high school dude, only with the glam that screamed he was coming out from the top of popularity. His brown curls moved just as mesmerizing as usual (with every small movement), his tan skin held a built look, and his pretty green eyes displayed his excitement, playfulness, happiness- and veiled nervousness to be with you.
“Hey dum dum.” You spoke, giving him a happy look. He responded with a lopsided smile, and suddenly pushed his way into the girl’s dressing room. Your eyes widened as you held your hands out.
“Wo-woah! Camilo! Are we even allow-”
He closed the door behind him with his foot, and wrapped his arms around your body- pining your arms to your sides as you were pressed up against him. A blush quickly swept clean across your face as he looked down at you with a smug look.
“You look beautiful, mi vida.” He spoke in a wildly flirtatious tone as his eyes flickered back and forth from your eyes to your lips. The boy absolutely claimed you with his gaze- shattering your mind with those green eyes.
“Th-Thanks-flaco.” You managed through your nervousness and pounding heart, trying to come up with something witty, but also being held captive in his gaze. The strong hold of his built arms held your arms in place, which only made your heart pound more. He smirked at the sight of your embarrassed face, and only laughed as you realized you couldn’t move your hands to cover your blush.
In a few small moments, Camilo’s lips softly came down on yours. You closed your eyes as you embraced it, your feet following Camilo’s lead as the two of you walked towards the wall. Your mind and heart raced at an equally fast speed as Camilo kissed you further. Eventually, you were against the wall and Camilo’s arms were around your head. You grabbed his torso, and he put his hands on your hips.
His kiss and embrace was a spell.
He was a spell.
You couldn’t break through that spell- and you were fine with that.
Suddenly, you and Camilo abruptly stopped when a knock sounded loudly on the door.
“Y/n? I’m coming in-” Shouted the very familiar voice of Catarina as the door opened. You both tried to quickly react, but your entanglement led to you tripping over Camilo’s long leg and the both of you losing balance as you stumbled to the floor. Camilo landed on top of you as you fell on the floor, and Catarina walked in.
“Doc Bruno says to wrap it u-” She abruptly cut out at the sight of the two of you on the floor- Camilo lazily on top, trying to get up, and you under him with wide eyes. Catarina’s own eyes widened as she snorted, her hand shot to her mouth, and she backed out of the dressing room.
“Hurry up and finish okay!” You heard her yell. Hot with embarrassment, you scrambled up from the half shocked-half amused Camilo. You whipped around to him as he slowly got up from the floor.
“We’re idiots!” You fumed, rubbing your forehead in exhilaration. “That could’ve been anyone else! One of your old friends, Mirabel, a loudmouth-”
“Hey-”
“Don’t ‘hey’ me, Camilo! Do you understand how badly that could have turned out?!” You snapped, eyes narrowed. You didn’t at all appreciate his lack of seriousness.
He walked up to you, and put his hands on your shoulders.
“Yeah, and I’m sorry. I’ll make sure we’re more careful next time. But we’re alright. It’s just Catarina- she keeps secrets better than she counts to ten.”
You loosened in his hold, and calmed down as it occurred to you that he was indeed taking it seriously. You heaved a sigh.
“Without using her fingers.”
He smiled.
“I’llnever let anything bad happen to you, okay?” Camilo whispered, with the most sincere look in his green eyes. You put your hand on his wrist, and smiled in content.
“Okay.”
He reached down and kissed your forehead, taking your hand in his. Your chest filled with butterflies as you observed him. Yeah, having a hispanic boy… Partner… Friend was amazing. He was super affectionate, and you loved him.
The both of you walked out of the dressing room, and made your way to the main stage where you could already hear Doc Bruno and Ashby giving loud instructions. You walked up to Catarina as Camilo went towards Doc Bruno onstage, probably going to ask a question. She saw you coming, and shot you a knowing look as you approached her. You made sure your eye roll was visible when you reached the girl.
“Hey- you know we weren’t doing anything… Y’know…”
She looked at you with a raised eyebrow.
“Cat, come on. The most we’ll do is… Very intimately make out, okay? Don’t you dareeven think about freakin’ telling Mirabel either.” You admitted, embarrassed. Catarina gave you a satisfied smile.
“Alright, thanks for the good info!” She sang. You scoffed, and your head turned as you heard Ashby call you to the stage. You briskly made your way up to the stage, standing beside Camilo once you reached it. You both had your scripts in hand, and waited for the ensemble to get their stuff in order for the progression. Once they were done, Doc Bruno pulled out two chairs from the set pieces and put them in front center stage.
“Alright. Madrigal, I want you in this blue chair here on the left. Y/n, take this wooden one on the right.” Ashby spoke, not looking up from his notes- but pointing to the said chairs. You and Camilo, took your seats while holding onto your scripts, and waited. It took a couple of moments for Ashby to stop muttering to himself, and then he looked back at the two of you.
“Okay. Take a look at scene seventeen in your scripts. I know we crossed some things out in our cold reads, so this shouldn’t be that hard. But I will say this; I want your kiss to give the audience a certain implication-” While Ashby spoke, Camilo wiggled his eyebrows at you. It took an act of congress for you to keep your composure.
“-that Thomas isn’t a kid anymore. He’s really reaching the serious stage of his adolescence, and this moment is where that occurs. Understand?”
“Yes sir.”
“Got it.”
Ashby nodded, then walked offstage to sit in the front row seats with Doc Bruno. Next to him, Doc Bruno clapped.
“Alright, show on the road! Hit the lights, Anakin. I want them all off except for the one center-stage spot. Madison and Kaiyo, make sure their mics are full. This is a pivotal moment in the production,“he yelled. With the orders, all lights turned off with the exception of the one spotlight on you and Camilo. The two of you got into character, sitting differently and holding each others’ hands as the characters did in the stage direction.
“Annnd… Action!”
So it began.
“I… See things, Eliza. The goldfish in the canal. The tank water turned to blood. The dead frogs. Maybe, it’s because I want to see them. Maybe it’s because I’m insane. But I know that for sure.”
You smiled, and put your hand on his face.
“You’re a silly boy, you know? Funny little boy. It didn’t stop at the canal. Remember the trolley?”
“Far too well.”
“You aren’t insane, Thomas. No matter what that horrible father of yours may say. You aren’t insane, you aren’t a failure, and you aren’t wicked. You’re you. You have a wonderful mind. A powerful imagination. Incredible intellect. I don’t know a single person who can beat you with wit. You’re wonderful. You’re perfect. You’re… Everything to me.”
“You really mean that?”
“Want me to prove it to you?”
A pause was given for effect, and you moved in first for theatrical reasons. You kissed him, then he pulled away abruptly. His eyes widened as a look of fear and hesitation came across his face. You tilted your head in a confused manner.
“Is… Everything alright, Thomas?”
A beat. Another beat. Around three seconds of silence, then Camilo’s face transforms- from scared to determined. From anxious to devoted. From hesitant to hellbent.
Camilo then quickly went in for a kiss, this one being much more deep, intense, and physical. It lasted a few seconds, then-
“Alright, good!”
After that, the scene was gone over by them many more times. Corrections were made in attitude, tone, physical appearance, and wording. It was altogether pieced, and you couldn’t have been more satisfied by the end. Doc Bruno called in for the understudies, and you got up off your chair to stretch.
“That went really well.” Camilo said, getting up.
“Yeah! It was kinda fun too.”
“Why? Cause you got the privilege of kissing Camilo?” He said, holding his hands together up to his face and lifting his leg up.
“You’re hilarious, but it might be the other way around.” You snorted.
“I believe you.”
Glancing sideways, you saw Ari walk onstage. Seeing him too, Camilo took your hand and the two of you began walking off. You were almost out too, when-
“Hold up a second- Y/n!” You heard Ashby call. You poked your head out from the curtain.
“Chrisiana’s out sick, so you’re gonna have to fill in for the understudy role today. We’ll have extra practice with them, but since we have everyone here we don’t wanna waste. Alright?” He asked- not really asking, but more of a silent order.
You nodded.
But it was only seconds later when it hit you-
You were going to have to kiss Ari.
Passionately.
Multiple times.
Your head all but flew to look at Camilo, who was frozen in worry. Obviously, he realized it too. He intensely waved his arms for you to go back to him.
You looked behind you, and there Ari stood. His facial expression was emotionless. Even bored, perhaps. But the guy was a liar. If you hadn’t known him for the years you did, you wouldn’t be able to see right through him like you were now. And what you saw?
Veiled triumph- especially as he stared at Camilo.
“Uh- I’ll be a quick second, Mr. Ashby. I have to use the restroom.” You said, resisting the urge to bolt offstage and out the auditorium doors to avoid the situation altogether. He gave you a thumbs up, and you ran to the wide-eyed Camilo behind the curtain. When you reached him, you both quickly ran to a private area.
“This is the worst thing that could’ve happened.” He gritted, glancing over to the stage.
“Crap! Camilo! I don’t wanna do this. I know I should have the theater mindset and not care but… Things are too weird right now! He hasn’t even apologized, he punched you, and I- Ugh! I don’t want to let him just get what he wants!”
“I know. Me neither. If anyone else had to kiss you for the play, I wouldn’t care- but him? This is pissing me off. It’s pissing me off!”
You stayed quiet as anxiety swelled up in your chest. As a reaction to your feelings, tears welled up in your eyes.
“I’m gonna kill him if he thinks he can just do this to you-” Camilo snarled, not seeing your face. But when he looked down into your eyes, his anger softened into concern.
“Hey, it’s okay mami. You don’t need to do this if you don’t want to. I’ll make sure of it- Doc Bruno’s totally my tio. He’s also righteously terrified of my mama.” He said, pulling you into a hug with one hand, and wiping your tears with the other. You inhaled deeply.
“No. I’m gonna do this- we’re not gonna give him that satisfaction of knowing he got a reaction. I’m gonna go there, and I’m going to act, and it’s gonna be anything else I’ve ever done. And after that, we’ll go to the paletera.” You spoke bluntly, a determined look taking over your face. You and Camilo were happy; Ari wasn’t going to take that away.
“You’re somethin’ else, y’know?” Camilo said, flashing you a smile.
“Oh trust me, I know.”
The two of you turned around, and made your way back to the stage. In the center, there sat Ari- reading through his script. Even when you came, he paid no attention to you. You fought the urge to scoff loudly.
“Oh-kayy! Y/n, you just did this, so you should be fine. Now Ari, I assume you were doing your job and watching the last runthrough with Camilo. If so, you should have a pretty solid idea of what and what not to do. Let’s take this from the top, ready?” Doc Bruno shouted, clapping his hands for the stage crew.
And just like that, it happened again.
You both said your lines. Ari’s deliverance was much different from Camilo’s in style, but about the same in theatrical technicality. You said your lines the same, then the time came. Before you went in for the kiss, you were abnormally reluctant- then you did it.
When Ari pulled away, you wished that was the end of it.
“Is… Everything alright, Thomas?”
Of course not.
Then Ari got his way.
He went in swiftly for the kiss. Maybe a little too impactful on your end, and his lips moved hard upon yours. Your discomfort was visible as you gripped your chair, fighting back the tears that came with the displeasure of the situation. But Ari didn’t care- he kept going further. The hell seemed to last forever. Not being able to take it anymore, you yanked back, and stood up. Ari looked up at you, almost confused. In the corner of your eye, you saw Catarina and Camilo.
“Y/n?” Doc Bruno asked in a worried tone.
“I- Uh- I have to go, Doc. I’m sorry. I’ll be here tomorrow.” You said, briskly walking offstage. Not stopping for Camilo or Catarina, you grabbed your bag and pushed your way out of the auditorium doors and into the hallway. You faintly heard Catarina assuring Camilo she’d take care of things with the directors, but you didn’t stop to go do it yourself.
It was hurting too much.
“Y/n!” Camilo’s voice rang out through the otherwise empty hallway.
You didn’t respond, but kept walking. His walking pace picked up into a speed walk behind you, and then eventually a run to catch up with you.
“Y/n hold on-”
You abruptly stopped, spinning around to look at Camilo. Your face was on the absolute verge of a breakdown, as you were already hiccuping.
“That was- I- That was horrible, Camilo- I-” Your voice broke. “He wouldn’t stop- it was- I-”
Unlike usual, Camilo didn’t touch you. He kept his hands at a distance- figuring the last thing you’d want right now is another guy touching you. He was hiding a fit of rage- a hatred for Ari. But also, a hatred for himself. He just watched as some desperate loser kissed the girl he loved with the bare minimum of your consent. He watched it, and let it happen. What he just saw went against everything his papa taught him. But with his intense anger, there was an overwhelming feeling of hurt. Not because of you, and not because of Ari- but because you were in front of him, hurting like hell, and he couldn’t figure out how to make you forget.
“We were never like this- I miss… But he’s so- He’s- He’s different.” You cried, the tears finally breaking through with your sobs. Camilo looked like he was deeply pained to see you this way.
You let your head fall on his shoulder, and he reluctantly wrapped his arms around you. You cried into his shirt, and then he began holding you tighter. He rubbed circles on your back, and held a kiss to your head as he comforted you.
“Está bien, mi vida. Está bien.”
And it was as if the built up tension inside you- from missing Ari- from everything changing- finally let out as you sobbed into Camilo’s shoulder.
i really want to read some coool fics from you guys and i know some of you are writers just like i am, or maybe you want to start writing, so here’s my writing contest! (even if it isnt really a contest, just something you all can participate in)
all you have to do is tag me in the fic,
send me an ask that you wrote a fic with the prompt you chose,
and have #idas writing contest in the tags!
maybe you’ll get a reblog who knows i just wanna read sum stuff
꒰ rules ꒱
- has to be a new fic
- no smut please thank youu
- has to be posted before 22nd saturday 2022, latest 0:00 am
- you can write fics for people in my masterlist (mcyt, hp characters (also marauders era included), encanto characters, and timothee chalamet)
Summary - Camilo is any other 15 year old boy; hormonal, annoying, and a complete and utter jerk. Being the cousin of your best friend, you have to deal with him a lot- but it’s not like you really mind. At all.
18+ users, and proshippers/gross people please dni
Warnings - Not beta read. Cuddling and kissing in this part ahaha. Also mentions of underage drinking, mentions of violence, nothing too bad.
Note - and it only took me 12 chapters to really get in the camilo x reader spirit huh. SORRY for the few day wait ive had… a week. something personal happened, then i was taking me time, then i was going to some events that lasted HOURS after school, then i literally injured my middle finger so i basically was typeless for a day. I RETURN THOUGH PLEASE ENJOY
Summary - Camilo is any other 15 year old boy; hormonal, annoying, and a complete and utter jerk. Being the cousin of your best friend, you have to deal with him a lot- but it’s not like you really mind. At all.
there wasn’t a night where camilo wasn’t by your side, he knocks on your window with a bashful smile, asking you if he could sleep with you. his heart beating in his ear drums at the thought of being rejected.
“my house is really cold..” he says, you don’t really mind. so, you open the window, helping him inside your bedroom.
“if you make any noise, my parents will kill you.” you warn him. camilo nods firmly, saluting you before rushing to your bed. he sits by the foot of your bed, watching you close the window. “make yourself comfortable…”
camilo keeps his eyes on you as he snuggles up in your sheets, sighing in content. your scent wrapping around him. it was strangely comforting, despite how creepy he may seem while he stuffs his face in the pillow, it does calm him down.
you lift the blanket, and settle down beside him, turning to face him. his back was to you, form tensing up. a small smile grows on your lips. you wiggle closer, wrapping your arm around his waist.
camilo sucks in a breath, nearly choking on his spit. “do you want me to sing you a lullaby as well?”
you tease, chuckling when he replies with a “maybe.”
it was a daily routine at this point. you would wait for him until he summoned enough courage to knock on your window. he wasn’t sure why he kept going back. maybe it was because you provided him comfort.
but his family does the same…
there were times, when you two got in arguments, camilo would sneak off to sleep in his parents bed. but, it wasn’t the same. he’d just lay awake, barely managing to sleep when morning hits. the guilt and worry eating him up.
he probably thought you weren’t as affected either, but you purposely leave your window open in case he would want to come over.
other times, he’d want something from you before you leave for holidays and such. like a teddy bear, or a book. anything that helps him sleep at night.
whining for you not to go, he even holds onto your arm, shapeshifting into different people, like your family members. “see! i could act as your family?!”
camilo isn’t entirely sure why he can’t sleep without you, his sister mentions it could just be because he’s tooin love with you. or he’s just scared of sleeping alone.
speaking of his sister, she’s his cover up. dolores covers for him when their family asks where camilo is. she isn’t sure what to say, and she freezes up when shes put on the spot, in the end, she says something really embarrassing that gets them to stop talking.
camilo would return home with pity looks, maybe even grossed out, and he knows dolores said something that messed up his reputation.
“really dolores! now everyone thinks i have herpres!”
“i panicked!” next time, he’ll just stay home and ask you to come over. not really ask, but beg you, because you knew your parents were strict and would never let you live knowing you sneaked off to your partners house in order for him to sleep.
Carlos was born a few minutes after Camilo and unlike his brother who had given his parents a smile once he was born, Pepa and Felix received a glare from the younger twin.
Him, Camilo, and Mirabel were close whilst growing up and would often hang out with one another.
Even though he’s the youngest, Carlos would be the one who acts as if he’s the more mature one.
“Camilo, Mirabel, don’t get yourselves into trouble.”
“We won’t, Carlito.” Eye twitching because he doesn’t like nicknames but he’ll make exceptions.
While Carlos was Carlito, Camilo is Camilito. It was cute. They matched.
Upon getting his powers, he wouldn’t be like Camilo who was eager to help the town. He had developed a dislike for the townspeople of Encanto after shunning his Tio Bruno.
He doesn’t do Camilo’s little twirl when he shifts into someone else. He just stands there menacingly. It’s a bit unnerving.
While Camilo is a theatre kid, Carlos is more of a sportsy type of kid. Often he excels in sports related activities but his lack of motivation to do anything plus his short temper makes it hard for him to play team sports.
Regularly gets into fights with boys his age because unlike Camilo, he isn’t the type to make people smile with his gift. He’s the type to create chaos.
That being said he once tried to blow out the candle for not giving Mirabel a gift.
He sticks close to Mirabel just in case someone teases her for having no gift.
He would pull a knife on them.
“Mirabel? Delivery! I gave you the “special” since you’re the only Madrigal kid with no gift. I call it the “not special” special. Since uh, since you have no gift.”
Cue a click of a pocket knife.
“You want me to remove that gut of yours, Osvaldo?”
He’s definitely Alma’s least favorite because he doesn’t help as much and doesn’t use his gift much to honor the miracle. He could care less though.
Carlos deemed that the townspeople weren’t worthy of helping after knowing about his Tio Bruno from his sister Dolores.
He would still often get mistaken for Camilo which he isn’t thrilled about no matter how much he loved his brother.
He would wear more darker colors, heavily contrasting Camilo’s bright yellows with dark or burnt oranges.
The two slits on his eyebrows weren’t intentional.
After getting into a fistfight with someone who bullied Mirabel, he had acquired a wound on his eyebrow from the impact of their punches. Which he had returned tenfold. Rather than letting Julieta heal it, he allowed it to heal naturally despite many protests.
This would later become the two slits you see on his eyebrow and a way on how to tell Camilo and him apart.
Carlos has a beauty mark on the left side of his chin next to his lower lip.
He also has heterochromia. His right eye is brown while the left eye is green.
Unlike Camilo who is more into acting and plays, Carlos is more into musical instruments and plays the tiple.
He doesn’t get into fights often but when he does he’s giving it his all. If you say some shit about his family, best watch your back.
He loves his family but he has his own way of showing it.
BONUS INFO
His voice is Camilo’s Italian VA
Definitely knows about his uncle inside the walls because Dolores babbles about his Tio’s telenovelas.
Cries along with Dolores when the main character rat he was rooting for gets killed off.
Probably the least pressured of the Madrigals since he could care less about helping the town.
Has the tough guy exterior going on but he does care.
Definitely gets on Alma’s nerves.
After Casita gets rebuilt, he may be helpful at times.. only if he’s up for it.
Request: “OK so, Camilo x male reader where male reader and Camilo have a game where reader tries to guess when Camilo is using his ability when outside the house. 2 points if he gets it right and Camilo gets one if he fails. They agreed that whoever scores 100 points gets a wish from the other. Whoever wins is entirely up to you.“
—–
You laughed quietly as you noticed your best friend’s eyes shifting slightly toward you before snapping back to attention, the only sign that you weren’t actually looking at Abuela Madrigal. You approached the ‘old woman’ casually, grinning up at her, “Hola, Senora,” you said. “How are you today?”
“Quite well, my boy,” she smiled, happiness creasing her face. “How are you?”
You returned her smile, “Doing well. I just got two points in our little game.”
It took a second for your words to sink in before ‘Abuela’ let out a huff and Camilo shape-shifted back into himself. “Damn, I thought that I had you that time. How’d you know it was me?”
“That’s my little secret,” you laughed, reaching out to ruffle his springy curls teasingly. “If I tell you, you’ll change your ways.”
Camilo shrugged, smiling one of his little half-smiles at your fond actions and unknowingly making your heart squeeze in your chest. “Guess you’ve got a point there. This is what, fifty-eight to forty seven?”
“Just you wait, I’ll be the one making that wish,” you teased, nodding. With that, you heard someone calling your name and dismissed yourself, unaware of the way Camilo’s eyes followed you fondly as you walked away from him.
—–
Several Months Later
—–
“Maribel!” you called, hurrying up to Camilo’s cousin and dragging her out of la Casita Madrigal, hoping to catch a word with her away from the crowds. Particularly away from any chance of your best friend overhearing. “Can I talk to you about something important, please?”
She cocked her head to the side, brows furrowing over brilliant brown eyes, “Is everything okay? Why aren’t you talking to Camilo about it?”
You shrugged sheepishly, eyes dropping to the ground in an effort to hide your embarrassment, “We’re friends, aren’t we?” Granted, you and Mirabel had never been quite as inseparable as you and Camilo, but you’d always been good friends, especially when you continued to make an effort to spend time with her and support her after she didn’t receive a Gift. The two of you still hung out together once in a while, though it was harder since Mirabel’s popularity had increased dramatically since the rebuilding of la Casita Madrigal. “Why shouldn’t I talk to you when I need advice? Especially if it’s about him…” your voice trailed off at the end, struggling to get yourself to continue.
Her eyebrows raised sharply, visibly shocked. If you had been looking, you might have noticed an odd look in her eyes, “This is about Camilo?”
You took a shaky breath, beginning to pace as you tried to get yourself to say the words you’d been denying to yourself for such a long time. “I think I’m in love with him,” you finally forced out.
Mirabel stayed quiet for a long moment as she thought about what you’d told her, “Hey, what was the score in you guys’ game?”
Your brows furrowed as you thought, “Ninety-eight to ninety-nine.”
“You’re wrong,” she said, and you stopped in your tracks, puzzled.
“No, that’s definitely what the score was,” you said, turning to look back at Mirabel in confusion.
Mirabel smiled at you, though the expression was a little different to her normal beaming smile. “No, I think you’ll find that you’ve got ninety-eight and Camilo,” her lips twist up into a familiar half grin, and then her features shift and change, resettling- to your horror- into those of your best friend, “has one hundred.”
“Mierda,” you swore under your breath, instinctually considering trying to run so you wouldn’t have to deal with the consequences of your confession.
Camilo looked at you thoughtfully for a few seconds and you could feel the anxiety building in the pit of your stomach, “I know what I want for my prize,” he said finally, dark eyes fixed firmly on you.
You sighed, resolving yourself. How could you have thought that you’d get away with not resolving the game before being rejected? “What is it?”
“I wish,” Camilo said, drawing it out to tease you further, “for you to kiss me.”
His words shocked you, forcing your eyes back to him. You hesitated, examining him for any hint that this was another of his practical jokes. He looked completely serious.
You swallowed hard before forcing yourself forward, one hand coming up to hold the side of his neck as you tugged him forward and up slightly, guiding him into a better position to press your lips to his in a sweet kiss. You could feel the way his lips shifted into a smile against yours before his hands came up to twist into your hair and pull you more firmly against him.
Camilo was still smiling widely when he finally released you, “I love you too, estúpido,” he teased, leaning up to press another quick kiss to your lips, like he still couldn’t believe that that was a thing he could do now. “Best prize ever,” he murmured to himself, taking one of your hands in his and intertwining your fingers. He started tugging you impatiently back toward the front doors of la Casita Madrigal.
“Where are we going?” you asked curiously, following easily behind your new boyfriend.
“We need to go see Isabella and Delores,” he said, “They need to know that they just lost a bet.”
You laughed, knowing that some people may have been upset at the fact that their romantic interest had been betting on whether or not they’d get together, but instead feeling nothing but fondness and amusement at your new novio’s antics. “Whatever you say, amore,” you said, and you knew it was true; anywhere Camilo asked you to go, you’d be happy to follow him.
With the Madrigals being only 20 minutes away, everyone was rushing to finish the house. The house itself was freaking out!
Running over to the kitchen, I see my momma, Ela, preparing our dinner. I walk over to her, grabbing a knife and helping her cut potatoes.
“Gracias” Ela says, sighing out in relief. I smile, hitting her with my hip.
“No problamo mama” I say, helping her cook.
“They’re here!!” Catalina squeals. The family rushes to the front door, seeing the infamous magical family. I stand near the back near Xavier who is practically vibrating in excitement. Abuela welcomes them as everyone rushes towards them. Xavier nudges my arm.
“You should probably find who you’re having to room with” he suggests, a soft smile forming on his lips. I chuckle, nodding.
“Probably, but there’s too much happening right now” I say, gesturing to the large crowd of people. He nods. Smiling, crossing his arms across his chest. Watching in awe, I see my brother run up to me, hugging my leg tightly. He mumbles something in my pants leg. I look down towards him, petting his wild brown hair.
“what’s wrong?’ I softly ask, bending down as he clutches his shirt. His lips wobble, tears brimming at the edges of his eyes.
"I c - can’t find A - Antonio a - an - and I need to find him” he whimpers out, I smile at him, patting his back. He looks up at Xavier before quickly looking back at me, his lip still wobbling. Rubbing his back I sigh, my smile still on my lips.
“I’ll help you find him, okay?” I softly say, looking at Aed. He nods, grabbing my hand as I stand up. Taking a breath in, I lead myself and Aed into the loud crowd. Looking around the crowd as clothes blend, Aed squeezes my hand. I squeeze it back, looking around. Humming I see a mop of curly black hair. Walking towards the mop of hair, I see a small boy around Aed’s age, talking to a Toucan. I nudge Aed with my hand, gesturing with my head at the boy. Aed doesn’t budge, gripping my hand tighter. I sigh, walking towards the boy.
“You’re Antonio, right?” I ask, loud enough for the boy to hear me. He looks up, the bird flying off. He nods, looking around. I smile, kneeling in front of him, my brother hiding behind me.
“Well, I have this friend of mine that’s really shy” I say softly, seeing Antonio’s eyes brighten, “and if I am correct, he is who you’re going to be staying with” Antonio gasps, eyes wide. He walks closer to me, getting close to my face. He brings his hands to his chest, squeezing them together.
“Really?” he asks, a smile gracing his face. I hum, nodding. I pull my brother in front of me, placing my hands on his shoulders.
“This is the friend I was talking about” I say as my brother backs up into me. I chuckle shaking my head. “This is Aed, he’s my brother” I say, leaning over to see Antonio. Antonio looks carefully at aed, studying him and me “and he is the one you’re going to be staying with” I say, smiling as Antonio’s eyes widen, his smile widening. I lean towards my brother, nudging him.
“Go on, introduce yourself” I whisper to him. Aed gulps, reaching his hand out, looking at Antonio wearily.
“H - Hi I am Aed” my brother says, looking at his hand and back to Antonio. Antonio takes his hand, shaking it happily.
“I’m Antonio, what’s your favorite animal?” Antonio asks, looking at my brother excitedly. Aed hesitates, looking back at me for guidance, I nod, smiling at him. He turns back to Antonio, gripping my hand.
“I - I like the monkeys’ that stay in our village” Aed says, watching as Antonio’s smile brightens. The two boys hit off immediately, talking about the monkeys. Aed lets go of my hand, happily talking to the other boy. I smile as I stand up, stretching my arms. I stay with the two boys, watching them exclaim about anything and everything.
“Antonio!” I hear a worried voice call. Looking up, I see a woman with curly ginger hair walking over, a thundering cloud over her head. She pushes through the crowd, sighing in relief. The cloud disappears as she walks to the boy. She hugs him tightly.
“I was so worried, amor” she says, looking over him. He mumbles something, pointing towards me and Aed’s direction. She looks up, before her face contours to surprise. She gasps, standing to her full height, covering her mouth with her hands.
“Oh mi” she whispers, looking at me. I look away worriedly. Oh god, did I do something wrong? If I did Abuela’s gonna kill me. She walks over to me hesitantly, looking at me with disbelief. I raise my brow, getting uncomfortable as anxieties rise.
“(y - Y/n)?” she whimpers out, looking me over. I rub my neck, chuckling awkwardly.
“Yes?” I say, before I get engulfed into a hug by the lady. I tense up, as she squeezes me tightly. I stand there awkwardly. She leans back, gripping my forearms. She laughs, a warm smile on her face.
“it’s really you?” she whispers in disbelief. I chuckle, not knowing what to do.
“Yup, it’s me” I say, as she pulls me into another tight bear hug. She swings me each way, huffing as she does. She places me down, a wider smile on her face. I look up to her, wondering who she is.
“Pepa, there you went” a masculine voice says. The lady looks over, before turning towards the voice excitedly. I groan softly, going limp.
“Felix, look who it is” she squeals, hugging me even tighter. I scrunch my face, closing my eyes.
“Pepa, you’re hurting the poor girl” Felix says, pulling Pepa away, I slump, lifting a hand to my forehead. Well, that was…something. Arching forward, I pop my back. I look forward see a short male, with black curly hair with gray mixed in. He had a muscular build, having a few buttons unbutton on his yellow shirt. He holds the lady, who is Pepa by the waist. She had a flowy yellow dress, a darker yellow near her neck that frills. She smiles at me happily, looking at me lovingly.
“Look how much she has grown” she says, reaching forward, grabbing my face. I deadpan, looking up at her.
“I’m sorry senora, but do I know you” I ask, pulling away from her. She looks hurt, before masking it.
“Sorry, but I’m Pepa Madrigal. I’m a good friend of your mom” she says, placing a hand on her chest. I nod, humming as her name sounds more familiar than I thought. Pepa turns to her husband, Félix with a smile. She then whispers something in his ear, shooing him off.
“So, who do you have to room with?” Pepa asks, her gaze at the two boys, laughing with each other.
“Mirabel if I remember correctly” I say, watching my brother. Pepa hums, walking closer to me.
“She’s a sweetheart” she says, turning to me, “Do you need help finding her” I huff and nod.
“Yes please. Abuela didn’t give us a description of what everyone looks like” I huff out, rubbing my neck as I look at Pepa. She smiles, looking over to her right.
“Well, I think my son could help you. Me and Félix need to find your mom” Pepa hums, smiling wider. Felix walks up, a smile wide on his face. Behind him is a teenage boy. Curly brown hair, a yellow poncho, and a white shirt on.
“Ah, Camilo! Can you help this young lady find Mirabel” Pepa asks, gesturing to me. My eyes widen, realizing who the boy is. My throat feels constricted.
“Um Senorita Pepa! I think I can Mirabel simply fine!” I stutter out, my body tensing up, “Thank you for the help though!” I rush off into the crowd, my heart beating crazily. Holy shit. Holy shit. It’s him. It’s not real! Probably a guy that looks like that little boy! I escape the crowd, letting out a sigh in relief.
“You look like shit”
“Thanks Xavier. Really helping me out here” I huff out, glaring at the boy in question. He laughs, putting an arm around my shoulders pulling me closer. I roll my eyes, looking up at him.
“So, you helped Aed buttt” Xavier says, nudging his head to the crowd, “You haven’t found the girlyou’re supposed to room with.” A large smirk graces his lips. I groan, walking forward.
“I knoww” I groan out, looking back at him, “But the thing is, is that I have no idea what this girl looks like!” He laughs, bending over. I squint at him, scrunching up my face as he hollers in laughter.’
“Oh, Dios mio!” I say, throwing my hands up in the air, as Xavier still laughs. I walk towards him, pushing my finger into his chest.
“If your soooo funny. How about you find Mirabel” I say, jabbing my finger into his chest each word I speak. Xavier closes his mouth, suppressing his giggles. I deadpan at him, as he puts a hand over his mouth. I then hear another giggle, turning towards it, there’s a girl my age. She has green rimmed glasses, and curly deep brown hair. Her shirt and skirt, colorful as all get out. Me and Xavier stare at her wide eyed. She laughs, a smile on her lips.
My family ran around the house in a hurry. Cleaning up anything to get ready for our guests. Walking forward, I glance around at everyone.
“(Y/N)!” I hear my mother yell. Turning, I see her standing there with my little brother who grips her dress.
“Yes Mami?” I say, walking up to her. She smiles, rubbing my brother’s shoulder in a resurging way.
“Can you take Aed, I need to goo help in the village and the babysitter who normally watched him is busy with other kids” she says, looking at me with love yet something else I cannot tell. I nod, squatting down and holding my arms open. I smile softly at my brother.
“Want to hang out with sissy today?” I say softly as my brother runs into my arms, him laughing happily. I pick him up, twirling around before placing him on the floor. Aed reaches for my hand, tugging me towards the stairs.
“Esperar” my mother says softly. I turn towards her, raising a brow as my brother tugs on my hand.
“Help Abuela today” she says looking at me expectantly. I nod, looking away from mom quickly.
“Of course, mami” I say letting my brother tug me to the stairs. Aed leads me to my door, pushing it open happily. I chuckle walking by myself. He lets go of my hand, running towards my bed and jumping on it. I smile at him, before shaking my head.
“So, what animal do you want to accompany you today?” I ask, bowing like a servant. Aed squeals in laughter, setting up as he looks towards me. He looks away for a minute or two, looking intently at my bed cover.
“I want a cat” he says, looking at me with wide eyes, “But! It be a big one like the big cats in the forest!” He says, raising his hands in exaggeration. Nodding, I flick my hand, having a wispy shadow develop. The cat itself standing at a height below my knees. The cat walks towards the bed, hopping on and curling around Aed. Smiling, I back up towards the door.
“Now he’ll watch you while I help abuela. You need anything you tell him and he ’ll be up here quickly. Do you understand?” I say, looking at him with intent. He nods, petting the black cat. I nod turning away and walking out the door. I quickly walk down the stairs as I see my family run around getting Casa ready. I walk into the kitchen to see my Abuela. I swallow, preparing myself to talk to her as my muscles tense.
“Um, Abuela?” I say softly, standing in the doorway of the kitchen, watching her carefully. She turns, to me, a smile on her face before it completely disappears.
“Oh… (Y/N)” Abuela says softly looking at me with… Disgust? “What did you need?” She asks, keeping her voice steady and stern. I gulp again, my palms getting sweaty as my anxieties kick in.
“Mami told me to help you” I say, straightening my back “So is there anything I should or need to be doing.” Abuela looks at me before huffing and turning.
“You can help Catalina with some of the cleaning” Abuela says, turning her head, “I want it done quickly.” I nod, turning away to find my ‘bright’ cousin. Looking around I spot the Brunette girl. Walking over to her, I tap her shoulder. She jumps, turning to me quickly with a glare.
“What do you want” she sneers, scrunching up her face. I smile, putting my hands behind my back.
“Weelll my dearest prima” I say, grabbing a broom that was beside her “Abuela asked me to help you” I lean towards her, a smirk on my face as she glares at me. She scoffs turning around.
“Abuela only asked you to help me, so she doesn’t have to see that likes of you” Catalina laughs, a smirk coming onto her face as well. I sigh, my face becoming blank. Well, that was nice. Turning around, I start sweeping the main floor, watching as the dust and derby move forward. I continue to sweep as Casa helps, moving the tiles. I look up to see Cataline doing nothing. I groan, moving my gaze back down.
Well, ain’t that just absolutely fantastic.
“You know that Abuela wants us to get this done quick” I state, a small smirk as I hear her choke on her own spit. She stumbles, grabbing her broom and sweeping with me. I smile with satisfaction. Soon enough, we got the main floor swept. Smiling, I place my broom on the wall for casa to take.
“Alright everyone, the Madrigals are almost here. So, with that, I will be telling everyone who they will be rooming with” Abuela says, a smile on her face as everyone stand in the main room.
“First, Ela, you’ll have Pepa and Felix” Abuela says, looking at my mom and dad.
“Vanna you’ll have Julieta and Agustin. Liam, you will have Bruno” she says looking at everyone yet again. I gulp as we make eye contact. Looking away quickly she continues to tell us who is staying in our rooms.
“Daniela you will have Luisa. Vivien will have Isabela. Catalina will have Dolores. Diaz” Abuela says, making my cousin jump. He looks up, curly hair blocking his vision.
“I want you on your best behavior with Camilo” Abuela says, glaring at the twelve-year-old. He nods, a smile creeping onto his face.
“Aed will have Antonio. And lastly, (Y/N) will have Mirable” Abuela says, looking at everyone, “Those who don’t have someone staying with them I still want you to be on your best behavior.” Abuela turns, walking away. I hear everyone sigh softly before disappearing. Closing my eyes, I open them walking to the front door.
“(Y/N)” my father says, I turn, seeing my father look at me sadly as he plays with his vest, “Don’t let her words get to you.” I nod, walking out the door, going to find my best friend.
“So, you’re having the infamous Madrigals at your house?!!” Xavier screams, shaking me by my shoulders. I groan, pushing him away.
“Yeah, I don’t see the big deal” I groan, sneering at him as he gets in my face.
“BUt it is a big deal!” He groans, looking at me directly" They’re another family like yours that has gifts! Do you know how cool that is?“ He looks at me, before blowing a fly away from his face, keeping his stare at me. I giggle, pushing at his shoulder.
"If its suuuch a big deal for you, I can see if you can eat dinner with us” I say, raising an eyebrow as some of my fly always fall in front of me. Reaching up, I smooth them out, trying to get them with my hair up. Xavier smiles, leaning back.
“Really?!!” he says, disbelief on his face. I smile and nod, patting his shoulder. I back away, as I nudge my shoulder against his.
“Well come one, we gotta convince Abuela” I snicker as he quickly turns and follows me.
Walking up the overgrown cobblestone path, we are met my lovely home. Walking up the steps, I open the door, holding it open for Xavier. He walks in, doing a little twirl as he takes in the house.
“I can never believe how big this place is” he mumbles. I chuckle, hitting him with my hip.
“Oh yeah? It’s not like you do this every time you walk in” I snicker, poking at his chest. He scrunches his face.
“Is that Xavier?” We both turn to see my mom, with a smile on her face. Xavier waves, smiling.
“Hola senora” he says sheepishly. She smiles, chuckling lightly, walking over to him. She cups his face in her hands, squeezing his cheeks.
“Oh, how much you have grown” she coos, smushing his face together. He tries to protest, giving up letting my mom show her love. She lets his face go, backing up.
“So, what are you doing here, carino?” she asks, placing her hands in front of her. I walk next to him, an awkward smile gracing my face.
“Well, mama… I was gonna ask if he could stay for dinner” I say, watching her eyes widen. “I know it’s probably a no, but he really wants to meet the Madrigals” Gesturing to my taller friend. She nods, smiling sweetly at both.
“He can stay…” she drawls out, watching as we both turn to each other, excitement clear on our faces. “Only if you sit by your prometido” My eyes widen, as I groan.
“He’s coming??” I ask, faking throwing up. Mom smiles, shaking her head.
