[ Turning his cheek to rest there, Vincent breaths a quiet sigh. Standing himself up straighter then, he continues on, silence lingering between them for a few long moments. ]
That pain you felt… perhaps it was simply be the imprinting, then. [ Though he clearly struggles to say it, sadness clear in his voice. ] It’s my fault for desiring too much of you, really - and should things turn for the worse, I’ll inevitably cause you suffering.
[Feeling resigned to the inevitable leaves Vanitas quiet as well, though he can't help resting his hand against Vincent's chest.]
I don't think so. [He murmurs quietly, almost to himself.] It isn't just a fondness for you I feel, but a powerful pull that makes me want to be by your side. I've been kicking myself ever since we parted, you know. ...besides, it isn't like I haven't already caused you pain, right? I'm willing to risk it if you are.
[ In truth, he believes that pull must be the imprinting, if all Vanitas feels is some kinship and nothing of love… but if the other man is to say otherwise, perhaps it’s arrogance which makes Vincent think that he knows better. Closing his eyes, he draws a breath. ]
A physical relationship, then? Is that what you’re asking for?
[It's unfortunate that "love" is a four-letter word to Vanitas, a blight to be avoided at all costs, lest he find himself trapped by it, or worse, doomed to die for it. Because despite his near suicidal tendencies, the deepest part of him does want to live. Hesitating a moment, he shakes his head.]
Not just that. I know that's not what you want out of it. I understand you offer more and expect the same in return. Something I'm willing to try giving you, despite feeling inadequate in doing so. ["Love", in so many words.]
[Feeling a faint heat rise to his cheeks, Vanitas huffs softly, again toying with Vincent's lapels.]
Mmhmm. I know I'm hardly the best at this sort of thing, but it's an effort I'm willing to make. For you.
[Never underestimate how bad he is at conveying emotions is the lesson here. But he can't help a sense of relief that washes over him at Vincent's words.]
I'm glad to hear that. For a while there I thought perhaps my hopes were in vain.
[ Regarding his restlessness with some fondness to his eye, a smile might even pluck at an edge of his lips. ]
I only hope it’s what you want, and not some effort to appease me. [ But now, he’ll offer a genuine smile. ] How could I deny a chance at your love, after all?
[At that, he can't help chuckling a bit, though he shakes his head, bumping his cheek against Vincent's chest.]
I know better than to try that anymore. It only made both of us unhappy in the end. [Finally able so smile for real, he beams at him.] You really do have it bad, huh? It's awfully sweet.
[ Some tension eases from Vincent’s form, contently humming at the younger man’s answer. Gently, he’ll place a kiss atop the other’s forehead. There’s reassurance in seeing Vanitas smile like that, to be sure. ]
I’m glad you think so, because I certainly do. Troublesome as you are, I would’ve been worse off without you. Worse all around, I’m sure.
[It's a relief to finally see Vincent begin relaxing after so long being stressed, even if the kiss does make heat flood his cheeks out of embarrassment. Better too many positive feelings than too few.]
Hopefully you won't be worse for having me... That's my one great concern. [Knowing what a mess he is, it's hard to believe any association with him is a good thing.]
[ While Vincent might typically tease his partner for the sentiment, he thinks better of it. Things are still too fresh, both of them still far too insecure. So, while he might playfully hum in some thought, he inevitably peeks down at Vanitas with a shake of the head. ]
No, I don’t believe I will. You’ve already given me so much to be grateful for. I’ve experienced genuine understanding and affection, began to see hope in what’s to come, and realized that I may be capable of becoming something more than I am. That I can love in a way I never thought possible. [ Seeing the waterfront ahead, he breathes with some relief, meeting Vanitas’ eyes while his smile pulls ever so slightly wider. ] Just imagine what you could do for me when you try, hm?
[A wise move on his part. While not outwardly insecure, there's far too many wounds inside that Vanitas is trying to contend with; prodding them would only lead to pain and heartache. Though at the heaping of praise, he colors deeper, averting his gaze briefly.]
I'm glad to have been able to grant you all those things, however skeptical I am of my part in it. You may be giving me far too much credit considering how heartless I've been. I can't help wondering how someone like me could be capable of providing that. [When their eyes meet though, he manages a small smile.] If anything, I think it's you who's helped me learn to be better with your endless affection...
[ Exhaling with some amusement, he finds himself enamored with the sight of Vanitas’ reddened face all over again, eyes greedily taking in the sight. ]
Who else would it have been, mm? Though your heart may not have been in it then, that doesn’t make it any less true. [ Similarly, however, he’s hesitant to accept that he’s affected the younger man in such a way… so, he faintly shrugs with a hum. ] If I, of all people, could provide you that, then perhaps we’re meant to guide one another.
[ Arriving at the residential entrance to their building, Vincent adjusts his arms to secure his hold on Vanitas, glancing down to the breast pocket of his coat. ]
Would you grab my keys there, and allow us inside?
[Despite his embarrassment, Vanitas can't help smiling more at the reassurances. Though catching sight of vincent eyeing him makes his flush that much deeper.]
Your brother? [Teasing.] I must admit it was accidental... Yet I suppose that doesn't negate the good done. [Nodding, he takes the keys from Vincent's pocket and unlocks the door before replacing them.] Perhaps so. If nothing else, we're certainly teaching each other lessons, for better or worse.
[He can't help chuckling a bit ruefully at that, brows quirking upwards.]
[ At the suggestion of his brother, Vincent’s brow quirks high, though it does come with a smirk. Though his smile slacks just so at the succession of remarks, and he only follows with a tick of his tongue. Even if all true, that’s one way to take the mood gradually down a few notches!
Nudging the door closed behind him, he at least manages to flip the latch on his own, before pausing before the stairs. Taking a large breath in resolution, he begins the climb up the single but sizable flight. ]
If you’d like, we can draw you a bath, and I’ll find something for you to eat once you’re warming up.
[Mood killer extraordinaire, that's him~ Not that he intends to, he simply runs his mouth too damn much. It gets him into far too much trouble for his own good, honestly...
While Vanitas is about to suggest Vincent put him down so he can climb the stairs himself, his lover simply goes for it, leaving him biting his lip a bit in concern. The man is hardly the most robust individual, and he's already walked a good distance today.]
That sounds perfect... A bath should help sooth my poor muscles, too. Though don't fret too much over feeding me; once I've rested, I can hand that myself.
[ Indeed, not only is Vincent more on the slight side, he’s also extraordinarily lazy. While willing to overlook that for his lovers, to an extent, he’ll push it just that much further for a select few… but this is hard!
Maybe five steps in, he pauses mid-stride, wilting slightly yet sniffing to steel himself… and then realization hit him, and he breathlessly laughs. ]
What am I doing… [ With a bit of focus, they elevate to float over the stairs, and seamlessly glide the remaining distance to the top. ] Seems I’m a bit tired, myself.
[ Peeking into the living area, he only notes someone in the kitchen, so he’ll just quietly sneak past before they can be noticed. Only once safe in the hall does he round back to their conversation. ]
Now, I know you’re rather particular, but you shouldn’t rest without something in your stomach.
[ Pressing down on the handle, he’ll allow them inside before footing the door closed behind him. And, at last, he’ll set Vanitas down on the bed. ]
[Two opposites in that regard; Vanitas is a go-getter who hates lazing about. Which sort of works out: he can do most of the heavy lifting for Vincent, except during moments like this where he's under the weather.
At the laugh Vanitas' brows quirk up curiously, and then he too realizes how silly they're being. He shakes his head a bit, laughing as well, but prods his lover's chest with a finger.]
It would certainly seem so. You'll have to rest, too, soon.
[Of that he's adamant. It wouldn't do to have Vincent keel over as well. Thankfully they don't have to field any questions for others right now, instead being able to reach their room with little fanfare. Once on the bed he sighs with relief and starts loosen his clothes for comfort's safe.]
I suppose you're right... In this case I'll eat whatever you feel like offering - provided it's not overly sweet.
[At that he smiles slightly, teasingly. Given they're a cafe, they tend to have a lot of overly sugary stuff around.]
[ Content with that answer, Vincent hums with some approval while threading his fingers into the younger man’s hair, simply regarding him for a moment with an idle smile upon his lips. Leaning in, he tilts his head just so to caress Vanitas’ lips with his own, before speaking against them. ]
I’m sure I could manage something.
[ Knuckles following down the gentle curve of his lover’s face, he pets beneath the younger man’s chin while slipping away to enter their personal bath. Setting up the water to run is a quick matter, and he’s just soon enough returning to check on Vanitas’ state of undress. ]
What can I do to help, mm? [ Playing with the other’s hair once more is probably proving to be only a distraction, but even so, he’s pulling its longer strands free of its ribbon to comb his fingers through. ]
[Leaning up into the attention, Vanitas snorts softly, knowing how... lax Vincent can be. Rustling up something is probably more effort than he wants to go through, so the fact he's willing to bother says quite a bit.]
I'm sure you can.
[Almost purring at the attention, his tail swishes idly in contentment, and once left to his own devices, he finishes removing his vest, shirt, and gloves, leaving only his bottom attire to deal with.]
Hmm... Maybe help with my shoes, if you're so inclined? Or simply take a break yourself; you've been going longer than you usually do. [The fingers in his hair are definitely proving distracting, leaving him craning his head to savor the feel of Vincent toying with him.]
[ Whilst listening, Vincent brings the ends of those strands to play over his lips. Ah, Vanitas and his lack of self worth, always providing an alternative to the assistance he needs… With a chuckle, the blond leaves a kiss on the younger’s cheek, as he shifts to kneel before him. ]
I will rest soon enough, don’t you worry.
[ Easily undoing the lower fastenings to the other’s spats, he’ll access the laces of his boots to loosen them, before sliding the shoes and garments free to set aside more kindly than he might bother with his own articles.
Offering his hands with an inviting little grin, if Vanitas should accept them, he will pull the other man onto his feet, so that he can assist with stepping out of his trousers.
On his way to stand, Vincent’s hands sweep along the back of his partner’s thighs, to pull that petite body in close, encouraged to straddle his hips. This time, the blond hefts him into his arms with a breathy grunt, the fatigue certainly settling in - but still, he carries on toward the washroom. ]
Mn, someone could certainly use the bath… [ He teasingly croons whilst nuzzling into the other man’s neck, teeth grazing its skin. ]
[Perhaps the worst part is that half the time Vanitas doesn't even realize what he's doing, downplaying his own needs. The kiss however brings slight color to where it's delivered, as he watches Vincent get down in front.]
Just see to it that you do... Last thing I want is to incur your brother's wrath should you collapse.
[He chuckles slightly, only half joking. While he doesn't think Gilbert would get too irate, he knows it'd upset the man. That said, though, he accepts those hands when offered, carefully stepping out of the rest of his clothes.
In light of how their earlier conversation went - long and tedious and almost futile - he finds the roaming hands something of a surprise, although perhaps he shouldn't. Doing as silently asked, he's hefted up with a faint startled noise, though he immediately clings to Vincent's neck with both arms to help support his own weight while they make their way to the bathroom.]
Tch... Are you saying I stink? [His nose scrunches up in disdain, though he has to try discreetly stealing a whiff of himself, providing the perfect opportunity for those teeth to sink into his neck, earning a moan of pleasure.]
[ With an affirmative sound, the points of Vincent’s teeth apply only enough pressure to indent and tug at the younger man’s flesh. Smelly though he may be, it apparently isn’t enough of a deterrent to keep him away.
Steadying a knee at the tub’s edge, one hand slides to Vanitas’ hip, instead, encouraging him to step down into the bath. Once steady on both feet, he will ensure that the other is seated safely. ]
Gil hasn’t given you any trouble about all that, has he?
[At that he can't help letting out a groan, both because of the acknowledgement of his stench and the teasing at his neck. It's at least somewhat comforting to know he isn't so appalling as to be off-putting.
Thankfully it's a problem that should be easily rectified. Being lowered into the tub comes with a faint sigh of relief, for it's deliciously warm and the water itself feels soothing and nice.]
Good. I imagine he has been too distracted to realize anything has been amiss, truthfully. I certainly haven’t told him.
[ Chuckling, he pets between Vanitas’ ears and down the back of his head. At least Vincent has only just teased him about it now, rather than having let him sit with that realization during the voyage home. ]
Right, then. Need anything else, before I go to the kitchen?
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That pain you felt… perhaps it was simply be the imprinting, then. [ Though he clearly struggles to say it, sadness clear in his voice. ] It’s my fault for desiring too much of you, really - and should things turn for the worse, I’ll inevitably cause you suffering.
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I don't think so. [He murmurs quietly, almost to himself.] It isn't just a fondness for you I feel, but a powerful pull that makes me want to be by your side. I've been kicking myself ever since we parted, you know. ...besides, it isn't like I haven't already caused you pain, right? I'm willing to risk it if you are.
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A physical relationship, then? Is that what you’re asking for?
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Not just that. I know that's not what you want out of it. I understand you offer more and expect the same in return. Something I'm willing to try giving you, despite feeling inadequate in doing so. ["Love", in so many words.]
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Is that right…
[ Yet, he’s glad for it, even if that’s something which Vanitas could have mentioned much sooner. Lashes lowering, he exhales with some amusement. ]
If that’s the case… I believe I’d like to try again.
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Mmhmm. I know I'm hardly the best at this sort of thing, but it's an effort I'm willing to make. For you.
[Never underestimate how bad he is at conveying emotions is the lesson here. But he can't help a sense of relief that washes over him at Vincent's words.]
I'm glad to hear that. For a while there I thought perhaps my hopes were in vain.
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I only hope it’s what you want, and not some effort to appease me. [ But now, he’ll offer a genuine smile. ] How could I deny a chance at your love, after all?
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I know better than to try that anymore. It only made both of us unhappy in the end. [Finally able so smile for real, he beams at him.] You really do have it bad, huh? It's awfully sweet.
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I’m glad you think so, because I certainly do. Troublesome as you are, I would’ve been worse off without you. Worse all around, I’m sure.
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Hopefully you won't be worse for having me... That's my one great concern. [Knowing what a mess he is, it's hard to believe any association with him is a good thing.]
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No, I don’t believe I will. You’ve already given me so much to be grateful for. I’ve experienced genuine understanding and affection, began to see hope in what’s to come, and realized that I may be capable of becoming something more than I am. That I can love in a way I never thought possible. [ Seeing the waterfront ahead, he breathes with some relief, meeting Vanitas’ eyes while his smile pulls ever so slightly wider. ] Just imagine what you could do for me when you try, hm?
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I'm glad to have been able to grant you all those things, however skeptical I am of my part in it. You may be giving me far too much credit considering how heartless I've been. I can't help wondering how someone like me could be capable of providing that. [When their eyes meet though, he manages a small smile.] If anything, I think it's you who's helped me learn to be better with your endless affection...
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Who else would it have been, mm? Though your heart may not have been in it then, that doesn’t make it any less true. [ Similarly, however, he’s hesitant to accept that he’s affected the younger man in such a way… so, he faintly shrugs with a hum. ] If I, of all people, could provide you that, then perhaps we’re meant to guide one another.
[ Arriving at the residential entrance to their building, Vincent adjusts his arms to secure his hold on Vanitas, glancing down to the breast pocket of his coat. ]
Would you grab my keys there, and allow us inside?
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Your brother? [Teasing.] I must admit it was accidental... Yet I suppose that doesn't negate the good done. [Nodding, he takes the keys from Vincent's pocket and unlocks the door before replacing them.] Perhaps so. If nothing else, we're certainly teaching each other lessons, for better or worse.
[He can't help chuckling a bit ruefully at that, brows quirking upwards.]
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Nudging the door closed behind him, he at least manages to flip the latch on his own, before pausing before the stairs. Taking a large breath in resolution, he begins the climb up the single but sizable flight. ]
If you’d like, we can draw you a bath, and I’ll find something for you to eat once you’re warming up.
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While Vanitas is about to suggest Vincent put him down so he can climb the stairs himself, his lover simply goes for it, leaving him biting his lip a bit in concern. The man is hardly the most robust individual, and he's already walked a good distance today.]
That sounds perfect... A bath should help sooth my poor muscles, too. Though don't fret too much over feeding me; once I've rested, I can hand that myself.
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Maybe five steps in, he pauses mid-stride, wilting slightly yet sniffing to steel himself… and then realization hit him, and he breathlessly laughs. ]
What am I doing… [ With a bit of focus, they elevate to float over the stairs, and seamlessly glide the remaining distance to the top. ] Seems I’m a bit tired, myself.
[ Peeking into the living area, he only notes someone in the kitchen, so he’ll just quietly sneak past before they can be noticed. Only once safe in the hall does he round back to their conversation. ]
Now, I know you’re rather particular, but you shouldn’t rest without something in your stomach.
[ Pressing down on the handle, he’ll allow them inside before footing the door closed behind him. And, at last, he’ll set Vanitas down on the bed. ]
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At the laugh Vanitas' brows quirk up curiously, and then he too realizes how silly they're being. He shakes his head a bit, laughing as well, but prods his lover's chest with a finger.]
It would certainly seem so. You'll have to rest, too, soon.
[Of that he's adamant. It wouldn't do to have Vincent keel over as well. Thankfully they don't have to field any questions for others right now, instead being able to reach their room with little fanfare. Once on the bed he sighs with relief and starts loosen his clothes for comfort's safe.]
I suppose you're right... In this case I'll eat whatever you feel like offering - provided it's not overly sweet.
[At that he smiles slightly, teasingly. Given they're a cafe, they tend to have a lot of overly sugary stuff around.]
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I’m sure I could manage something.
[ Knuckles following down the gentle curve of his lover’s face, he pets beneath the younger man’s chin while slipping away to enter their personal bath. Setting up the water to run is a quick matter, and he’s just soon enough returning to check on Vanitas’ state of undress. ]
What can I do to help, mm? [ Playing with the other’s hair once more is probably proving to be only a distraction, but even so, he’s pulling its longer strands free of its ribbon to comb his fingers through. ]
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I'm sure you can.
[Almost purring at the attention, his tail swishes idly in contentment, and once left to his own devices, he finishes removing his vest, shirt, and gloves, leaving only his bottom attire to deal with.]
Hmm... Maybe help with my shoes, if you're so inclined? Or simply take a break yourself; you've been going longer than you usually do. [The fingers in his hair are definitely proving distracting, leaving him craning his head to savor the feel of Vincent toying with him.]
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I will rest soon enough, don’t you worry.
[ Easily undoing the lower fastenings to the other’s spats, he’ll access the laces of his boots to loosen them, before sliding the shoes and garments free to set aside more kindly than he might bother with his own articles.
Offering his hands with an inviting little grin, if Vanitas should accept them, he will pull the other man onto his feet, so that he can assist with stepping out of his trousers.
On his way to stand, Vincent’s hands sweep along the back of his partner’s thighs, to pull that petite body in close, encouraged to straddle his hips. This time, the blond hefts him into his arms with a breathy grunt, the fatigue certainly settling in - but still, he carries on toward the washroom. ]
Mn, someone could certainly use the bath… [ He teasingly croons whilst nuzzling into the other man’s neck, teeth grazing its skin. ]
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Just see to it that you do... Last thing I want is to incur your brother's wrath should you collapse.
[He chuckles slightly, only half joking. While he doesn't think Gilbert would get too irate, he knows it'd upset the man. That said, though, he accepts those hands when offered, carefully stepping out of the rest of his clothes.
In light of how their earlier conversation went - long and tedious and almost futile - he finds the roaming hands something of a surprise, although perhaps he shouldn't. Doing as silently asked, he's hefted up with a faint startled noise, though he immediately clings to Vincent's neck with both arms to help support his own weight while they make their way to the bathroom.]
Tch... Are you saying I stink? [His nose scrunches up in disdain, though he has to try discreetly stealing a whiff of himself, providing the perfect opportunity for those teeth to sink into his neck, earning a moan of pleasure.]
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Steadying a knee at the tub’s edge, one hand slides to Vanitas’ hip, instead, encouraging him to step down into the bath. Once steady on both feet, he will ensure that the other is seated safely. ]
Gil hasn’t given you any trouble about all that, has he?
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[At that he can't help letting out a groan, both because of the acknowledgement of his stench and the teasing at his neck. It's at least somewhat comforting to know he isn't so appalling as to be off-putting.
Thankfully it's a problem that should be easily rectified. Being lowered into the tub comes with a faint sigh of relief, for it's deliciously warm and the water itself feels soothing and nice.]
Hmm? No, nothing. Should he have?
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[ Chuckling, he pets between Vanitas’ ears and down the back of his head. At least Vincent has only just teased him about it now, rather than having let him sit with that realization during the voyage home. ]
Right, then. Need anything else, before I go to the kitchen?
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