Mini Adventures

Enjoying a reprieve of battles and a moment of peace, one strong hedgehog begins to rise to stardom. Her music, a blend of an ethereal fantasy. With her voice, one could breathe in a world where they briefly touched only in dreams. A secret talent that hardly anyone knew before. Except for two that never spoke a word about its existence prior.

During a concert, people cheered, listened and were transported to a realm beyond imagination. Even those working backstage, though lessened than others, still felt a more calming aura from it. On opposing ends of the stage wings, two hedgehogs were on lookout for any suspicious activity or over excited fan. Although each took their jobs seriously, one would relentlessly tease the other from time to time.

Funny faces, signs of previous jokes, anything to break their concentration to let loose and have fun. The other was nearly stone cold, yet would let out a smile amongst many eye rolls every once in a while. Especially during a more hyped up side of the performance. However when there were any dangerous situations they dealt with it accordingly.

At times of the concert where she took the lights down for simple spotlights or illumination with the vibes of many lit candelabras, her voice and simple instrumentation for more heartfelt, sorrowful or more romantic melodies and ballads. Whether or not they were into them, how she conveyed every lyric, note and meaning was enough to capture the attention and listen.

More often than not our rising star was left with tears in her eyes during those moments. Where she could convey a truth in her heart without a direct confession. Formerly hoping one day, they both would hear her unspoken truth. However she feared it was too late and resided to sing for both of them in celebration. For she adored seeing them both happy. That alone was enough. It had to be enough.

After her final encore of the evening, she allowed one to two if she felt up for it physically, allowed the lights to dim, the trapdoor to open where she slipped beneath the stage where her two bodyguards would wait at the end of the tunnel. Having to go one way or another where they used to stand mere moments ago was hard enough. This eased her heartache, as stupid as it may seem.

“Are you alright Rose?” Amy snapped her head as she took a water bottle held out for her by Sonic and smiled at Shadow, eyes shut briefly.

“Just a bit tired for the evening.” Not entirely untrue but they both shared a glance before looking back at her.

“Let’s get ya back to the hotel. Arms or Back?” Gesturing to the backside, Sonic turned around, kneeling and waiting for her to climb on. After every performance he did this as wearing those performing shoes, thanks to Rouge, were a bit uncomfortable towards the end.

So he asked if he could help alleviate the pain. At first she denied but after a couple weeks, and seeing her heels covered in opened wounds (like that once scene in ‘Ice Princess’) after a concert, he knelt down with a more empathetic smile. Gesturing with a thumbs up towards his backside and his other hand outstretched for her to choose. Since then it has been their thing even after her performance attire switch-up thanks to Shadow. Whom had quite a few choice words to say to Rouge that she immediately apologized and changed the outfit design completely for more comfortability.

Shadow followed close behind as Sonic and Amy were giggling and laughing over some moments that evening. How a few audience members had returned and seemingly were not together, about who had the most unique dance moves, etc. Though after a few minutes, Amy went back to being more quiet, using the excuse that it was to rest her voice. Although Shadow knew immediately something was wrong. Especially when he had to remind her to vocal rest after a performance usually.

Sonic wasn’t oblivious to her sudden mood change either. Upon feeling a small wet drop upon his quills and shoulder, stepped into the elevator catching a glimpse of her trying to subtly wipe away a few tears in the elevator wall reflection. While wanting to see what's going on, took a look at Shadow and understood to keep silent until they were all alone. Even as she buried her head in his quills.

Though already full of resolve to keep her feelings hidden for their happiness, moments like tonight just felt like her bottle of secrets was about to burst. Right to the point where it physically hurts. Usually if this happened, a good cry to sleep was just what was needed before being back to ‘normal’. Upon arriving at the penthouse suite, Gestured for Sonic to put her down before smiling as if nothing happened.

“You two can go if you want, obviously.”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Shadow leaned against the door wall, arms folded.

“Huh? I’m in my hotel room safe-”

“There have been reports of suspicious activity in the area. While the hotel might be safe, I believe it would be best to err on the side of caution.”

“Translation, better safe than sorry Ames.” Sonic smirked.

“It’s just…wouldn’t it feel weird?” Amy asked, biting her lip. They were her bodyguards but they were her friends first and foremost above anything else.

“We know you can protect yourself Ames. But, humor us for tonight. Please? After all it’s better to have three than one against an enemy.” Sonic winked as Shadow opened his eyes slightly with his own smirk. Proud of his boyfriend for being extra smart in this moment.

“Alright, I see your point.” Amy sighed with a laugh that was a mixture between relaxed and nervous.

“No, why don’t you go change and relax and we can watch a movie or something. Deal?”

“Deal” With a high-five Amy went to wash off all the performance sweat and body glitter. Thankfully not the kind that gets everywhere nor too much. Sonic and Shadow headed to the little kitchen area to prepare her tea and see what was brought to her for dinner. Shadow taking small portions to taste test them.

“Hungry Shads?” Sonic smirked, elbows against the counter and head leaning on his palms.

“I’m immune to poisons and can taste them. This is just to ensure her safety, that’s all.”

“Sure, I can get behind that. But, like, you didn’t have to take five bites of Tiramisu in order to tell, right?” His mischievous grin and Shadows annoyed, yet caught in the act glare as he nudged his shoulder with his finger. Sonic laughed, catching himself on the counter.

Half an hour later Amy emerged in loose, thin, flowy lounge pants with pockets, a simple crop top, quills washed and drying down her back with a blanket in hand. She would’ve taken twenty but heard them laughing and had a five minute silent cry in the shower. The other five, reminding herself that if they’re happy, then she would be too.

“Glad to see more of you Ames.” Sonic smiled before offering her the warm, throat soothing tea. She nodded her thanks and took a few sips.

“Rose, we wanted to ask if you are truly okay.”

“Huh? I’m fine, tired but I’m fine. Why?”

“You see Rose, that’s where we’re concerned.” Shadow walked around the counter, gently leading her towards the couch where they could talk more comfortably.

“Concerned? I mean I had an emotional ballad and a bit drained from that but-”

“It’s not just that Ames” Sonic chimed in. “It’s like you put up this shield around yourself. I don’t know how to explain but every once in a while I see that you’re upset. I’ll be honest, I saw it in the elevator earlier tonight.” Amy looked down in utter silence, Thumb moving against the rim of her mug.

“Rose, we’re worried about you. This isn’t the Amy I’ve come to know. The one who reminded me that there is good in the world. You made me remember Maria and her promise.”

“You're a compassionate, kind-hearted person so strong willed and never backs down from a fight. But seeing your spirit a bit broken is…scary Amy.” Another tear staining her cheek, eyes shut as guilt set in. Shadow wasn’t usually this vocal and Sonic never had this much to say when it comes to feelings.

Instantly getting up and walking back towards the kitchen counter. Slamming her mug down and pulling out a small piece of paper kept in her pocket. A candle lit nearby and she hovered the small parchment over the lit flame.

“Amy what are you-?!”

“Stop!” She spoke with such quiet force they both went still out of shock.

“I’m sorry….but I can’t reveal why. I can’t be in the way.” She whispered, tears streaming down her face as Shadow glanced at the folded paper a bit more closely. Eyes widened a bit before shutting them and giving a bit of a chuckle.

“Shadow?!” Sonic bewildered at his boyfriend as Amy tilted her head in confusion.

“You’re worried that confessing that you like us both, that you’ll ruin all our friendships and threaten our happiness.”

“What?” Sonic’s tone shocked as he looked back at Amy’s newly stunned expression.

“Word of advice, if you’re going to destroy evidence by fire, do it quickly and not hover over the flame where the truth can be seen through.” Slowly lowering the paper in hand as he walked over to her side.

“Ames?” Sonic stepped closer as she buried her face in her hands.

“I-I’m sorry” She whispered mumbling.

“For nearly burning yourself and or the penthouse? All is forgiven.” Shadow smirked, taking the paper that was in between her fingers.

“....and for ruining things.”

“Amy, what are you talking about? You didn’t ruin anything.” Sonic added, placing a hand over her shoulder.

“May I?” With a gentle nod, still having her face covered, Shadow unfolded the paper and began to read the contents of the confession. Written as a love letter to them both.

My dearest loves,

Yes, you read that correctly. Loves. As I have come to realize a few things that lead me to this moment. As a young hedgehog I went with my heart and barely followed any logic. Being Sonic’s fangirl and stupidly thinking that love would conquer all without truly understanding what that meant. Overtime I would like to think I’ve grown just a bit from this childish way of thinking.

Especially when I started to consider who I was outside of a fangirl and friend. Wanting to be more than what was viewed of me, just to prove it to only myself. Which led me to realizing how utterly cringe and obsessive I was prior. Deep down I didn’t want to ‘settle down’ in a traditional sense. I want adventure, fun and wonderful memories to share.

But of course that would be confusing to convey that truth with my past actions. So I started to back off, think of how it felt for the other person and build upon respect and trust. Even as just a friend. That’s where I found the flame in my love for you first, Sonic, as it was meant to be. I just didn’t convey its truth until now. As I didn’t understand it, for that I am sorry,  and went into the deep end without first learning how to swim.

Ironic aint it?

Shadow smirked as he waited for Sonic to slowly get to that point. Watching his expression go from a faint smile to a blushing mess.

“Shut up” He mumbled, upon seeing Shadow’s mischievous grin, nudging him with his shoulder before they both continued.

However I also began to realize that I had fallen for another during that time. Another flame hidden and outcasted by so much unfairly. One I didn’t realize I was also reaching for. Beginning when I was heard pouring out my heart without being pushed away for being ‘too emotional’. You understood me when it felt like no one else did. In time, I came to love you too Shadow.

I buried this deep down in fear of being selfish. Especially when I saw how close you two were and are. I got jealous. Staying away but also wanting to be a part of it all. In my sorrows I found a resolve. One I still hold true to this day.

I want you both to be happy. Truly happy.

That would be enough for me. It has to be enough for me.

I’ll always support you, stand by your sides and be a friend as I always have and will continue to be. A part of my heart may ache, but I hope in time it will heal.

I love you both, that will never change.

Not a word was spoken. The silence was tense and Amy felt a need to run. However before she could take a step, felt both of them embrace her tightly. Nearly sandwiched between the two as her head rested against the familiar soft chest fur and the feeling of soft quills against her shoulder. Her hands, in each one of theirs against their hearts.

“G-guys?” Amy didn’t know what to do and neither was budging. However she couldn’t deny that this physical contact felt good. Felt right. A few minutes went by before she fell in rhythm with their soothing heartbeats and deep, calming breaths. Nuzzling her face into his chest fur a bit more. In return felt their embrace tighten just a little.

After a few more minutes, they slowly broke apart. Sonic scratched the back of his head, biting his lower lip, sighing then giving a charming smile before finally speaking up.

“I’m a hedgehog of action Ames. So bear with me for a second, please while I take a page from you.”

“O-Okay, take your time.” She smiled as he breathed in.

“Long ago I didn’t know what to do when you so casually poured your heart out. I avoided the subject cowardly, I know we’re both to blame on that and I’m sorry as well. However when you stopped chasing and I got a chance to see the real Amy Rose overtime, I- I wanted to be with you more and more. Obviously, I did open my heart to Shadow first, but what I felt for you never stopped Amy. In fact that was one of the first few things we talked about.”

“R-really?”

“Rose, you have this unique perspective unlike any other. You understand the small joys in life, finding the meaning behind everything and cherishing that close in your heart. I admire that so much. You saw and brought out the good in me when no one else did and helped me remember who I was.”

“You both are giving me too much credit” Amy groaned, unable to hide her smile and raised a hand to her forehead.

“Not to mention” Sonic added “A little crazy, fun to hang around, brave in the face of danger, compassion for people, especially those in need and not once wavering in who you are…until recently. Which is why we were wanting to talk to you.”

“I-I’m so sorry for everything…I was just too scared to tell the truth.” Amy leaned back into the counter, holding her arms against her abdomen slightly.

“Amy” Sonic gingerly placed his hand against her cheek, gently encouraging her to look up.

“No matter what, you can always tell us whatever you need to say. We’ll work it out and honestly we haven’t told you the best part.” 

“We’ve talked about this before in a hypothetical and to see that it might actually happen is…shocking. But it’s what we would like to happen. If you want to, of course.”

“Which is?” Amy breathed

“We are open to you joining our relationship. Be truly a part of it. We want you to be our partner.” Her mouth gaped open as Shadow explained as slowly as possible, slightly awkward as he raised his fingertips against his forehead.

“Not so easy huh?” Sonic teased as Shadow glared, eliciting a sudden burst of laughter from Amy. Tears streaming down her face from an overwhelming feeling of emotions. Both turned to reach out for her and in a turn of events pulled them both into a hug and nodded her head.

“Yes. Oh yes I would love to!” She whispered softly. “Just ... .I need a bit to process this.” Her voice broke a bit by loving laughter. Slowly they both embraced her back once more. Giving a silent, one excited the other slowly agreeing in a fist bump as well.

Later on they just casually talked, enjoyed a movie, etc. At some point during the evening they all fell asleep on the couch. Sonic woke up to only Shadow beside him as he blinked and slowly began to realize someone was singing. Turning to see Amy, wrapped in a blanket and humming against the sliding glass door to the balcony.

“Can’t sleep?” Sonic whispered, walking over and slowly slipping an arm around her waist. Allowing her to lean into him.

“Just thinking….it’s been…a lot to think about….. You both like me?”

“Some would say l-o-v-e but yes.” He teased as she bit her lip shaking her head.

“And you both want me to be a part of this relationship.”

“Good on ya for keeping that a statement.” She playfully slapped his chest as he chuckled and held her tighter. “Yes, is that…odd for you?”

“Well…yes and no. No, because it feels right. But yes because ... .well I always knew poly couples existed I just…I never expected I could be in one where I have two people that love me at once.” Amy sighed listening to the sound of his heartbeat.

“Also yes”

“Huh?”

“I couldn’t sleep because I’m afraid I’ll wake up and this will all be a dream.”

“Oh Amy” He sighed, shaking his head and waving a finger as always. “We’ll always be around. In fact, sorry to say but you’re stuck with us.”

“Finally something I can agree on.” Turning to see Shadow next to them, gently reaching out to caress her cheek.

“It’s weird, especially after…a lot of things. But I wouldn’t trade this for the world. However I will say it’s late and you both need rest. I’ll take first watch.” Sonic nodded and in a swift notion, lifted Amy in his arms before semi speeding towards the bedroom.

“S-Sonic! I can walk!”

“I know but I'd rather we get to bed so I can keep holding you like this all night long.”

“Sonic the Hedgehog” Amy began with a smirk “since when did you get so cheesy.”

“When I started loving you more than just a friend.” Her blush made him smile so proudly before leaning in and whispering “I also learned from the best.”

“N-not f-fair” She mumbled though unable to hide a bit of laughter. Feeling him lay down in the soft sheets. Sliding in and pulling her back in his arms, pulling the sheets over them. Meanwhile Shadow sighed before glancing up at the moon and the stars. Feeling a familiar warmth inside that he kept close to his own heart.

I got two worlds to protect now, Maria.

Hearing Amy’s giggles and knowing it’s because of Faker and rolled his eyes, Was about to say ‘go to sleep’ but couldn’t help but revel in the sounds she made and the knowledge they were happy. The Shadow he once was would’ve probably groaned and get angry at that. Folding his arms laughed at how soft he had become. All because of them. He wouldn't change that for the world.