Misguided Adventures and Magical Attachments (Completed)

Chapter 49

Standing in what once was his prison cell, Ford gave a surprised smile, eyebrows raised. "You really have changed for the better," he commented, turning his gaze to Dipper. "I hope you both can continue to benefit from each other's presence. Dipper does you well, Bill."

The blond simply stared at him, stunned to hear those words from Ford. Yet he kept a smile on his face and turned to Dipper, caressing the younger's hand in his. "Yeah. We love each other." He squeezed Dipper's hand gently. Despite the cheerful circumstance, his gut told him something was off. Are you feeling the same or is that just me?

I . . . I don't know, he pondered, feeling mostly happiness at the touch and anticipation to free Bill. Underneath, he wasn't too glad Ford was the one to help them, but if he did, wasn't that good enough? Maybe he was starting to see their side. Just like how he made friends with Pacifica, right? We aren't on great terms with him, but it can get better, can't it? He saw our love.

Okay. I suppose. I was hoping one day he'd warm up to us, Bill admitted, lifting Dipper's hand and giving it a gentle kiss.

Stepping forward, the Author gave a small quirk of his lips. "Well, happy birthday, Dipper."

"Thank you," he smiled shyly in return, meanwhile enjoying Bill's affection. "And . . . thanks again. For listening to us. I'm sorry for everything that's happened. Hopefully we can make it up to you. After Bill's free."

Ford's expression was borderline kind as if he was taking the apology sincerely. "You're welcome. We'll see what happens."

Strange reply . . . Dipper couldn't resist thinking, glancing over at his boyfriend before shrugging it off. Ford was the antisocial type. He probably just . . . didn't want to establish too close of a relationship with them after the whole incident. A feasible conclusion.

The demon knew his logic was probably on track. And he trusted him. So if Dipper trusted Ford, then Bill could too. Though, it was a weird reply . . . He shook his head, grinning instead.

"How's Mabel doing?" Ford asked, breaking the silence. "I find it uncanny she hasn't bounced the walls to oblivion by now."

"She would have, but she's actually setting up a party at the Mystery Shack with everyone else," Dipper offered, laughing a bit. "We're going to meet them later."

Bill nodded. "I figured we could all go to the party and have fun. Right, Pine Tree?" He beamed, spirited at the thought of having a party with the brunet again. It would be fun. Amidst dancing and kisses.

"Yep! It's gonna be so cool," he agreed, glowing. "I can't wait."

"After what Stanley's said, I'll have to give him a talking-to, the no-good straggler," Ford joked, seeming less angry at his brother.

Bill chuckled. The elder seemed to be in a better mood. He hoped it stayed that way. "So, should we get ready for that party then?" he asked Dipper.

"We can totally do that!" he smiled, about to turn with Bill.

Ford looked shocked, but didn't say anything. It caused Dipper to pause.

The taller royal glanced at Ford. "Have something to say, Fordsy?"

"I'm just . . ." he trailed, grinning awkwardly. "I didn't think you would trust me so easily."

Bill tilted his head. "I had some doubts, but . . ."

Ford cracked up, chest heaving as he wiped an actual tear from his eye. "Bill Cipher, the merciless ruler of the Nightmare Realm, harnesser o-of Weirdmageddon, has doubts?" he chortled. "Excuse me if I have a difficult time believing you."