[Today is a very important day. Aether has been waiting for it impatiently, as he has a special gift for his dear lover. There's a huge grin on his face as he makes his way towards Vanitas, hugging the other from behind and pulling him close.]
Happy birthday!
[He nuzzles against his lover like an affectionate cat.]
[Despite being rather apprehensive about today, it's impossible to not feel some sense of happy giddiness when presented with Aether's warm hug and nuzzling. Still, he turns enough to brush a hand along his lover's cheek, leaning in to kiss him lightly.]
Heh, thanks... Another year survived, I guess.
[And what a ride it's been... Especially since arriving in Karteria.]
[The kiss is happily accepted and Aether looks like he's shining with happiness. It sure was a year and as much as Aether hated some of those events, he also finds a lot to be thankful for. His meeting with Vanitas is one of those things.]
I have a gift for you... but you need to close your eyes.
[He brushes his nose affectionately against Vanitas' then grins mischievously.]
[That's something they both can agree on, if nothing else: that meeting each other was a blessing worth enduring some of the horrors Patho-Gen has had to offer them. Right now, though, he's not thinking about that so much as the warm body pressing against him, followed by the fact Aether bothered to get him something.]
Hmm? Alright. No funny business, though.
[It's said teasingly as he nips at Aether's nose with playful intent. He's feeling surprisingly well now that his spectral death has passed.]
You sound like I'm the one who causes trouble around here.
[There's some teasing back from him, accompanied by more melodious laughing.
Once Vanitas closes his eyes, Aether steps away slightly and reaches into his pocket. A small wooden box is soon in his hand and he opens it revealing a ring. It's blue stone shines like the night sky littered with tiny stars and bigger ones surround the stone, glittering in the light. The traveler chose it very carefully, since it looked like the moon and stars - something that represents them both.
He grins to himself, suddenly nervous about it all as he turns the box around to present it to Vanitas and finally says:]
You can open your eyes now.
[There was one more reason for this gift, though.
Aether really wanted his lover to wear a ring from him. He's almost tempted to ask if Vanitas would marry him now.]
[Said with absolutely zero seriousness. He knows he's the one who is the source of chaos in their little group. Aether is a voice of reason, someone who grounds him.
Which is why he has no problem letting his lover rustle around to present him with his gift. His eyes remain firmly shut, although his feline ears swivel forward towards the sounds and his tail sways eagerly, excitement building with the anticipation. Once given the go ahead, he slowly opens one eye then the other, gaze landing on the precious present and widening until a small breath slips free from between his lips.]
Aether...
[It's beautiful, truly. He sees the significance immediately, and finds himself moved in a way he rarely is. He feels... loved. Seen and heard, appreciated. Slowly he reaches out to carefully take the box so he might get a better look at it.]
It's wonderful.
[It's said with a kind of awe, like he can't believe his lover managed to find something so perfect for them. Because that's what it is: a gift for them both, to signal to everyone what they mean to each other.]
...will you do the honors? [Of putting it on his hand. Because that seems fitting.]
[Everything is still as he awaits his lover's reaction and when it finally comes, it's an emotional moment. Aether presses a hand to his heart, allowing Vanitas to examine the gift, while the traveler watches his partner closely, glad, relieved, overjoyed that the other likes the ring.
Aether smiles lovingly, wishing to commit this moment to his memory.
And then he looks surprised by the request, but eagerly nods his head just a second later. If his heart was still beating it would be jumping in his chest by now, yet even without it he still feels that joy spreading through his entire existence.
The traveler carefully takes the ring from the box, then reaches for Vanitas' hand, delicately bringing it up and closer. Except then he grins, like a prankster who came up with a new mischief, and drops on one knee. Only then he slowly puts the ring on his lover's finger, admiring it for a moment, before pressing the softest of kisses to those fingers. It's like a scared oath has just taken place and Aether doesn't think he's ever felt happier in his life.]
I love you. [He whispers against the ring and the other's skin, like a soft spell meant to be carried with the other from now on.
Then Aether looks up and smiles. His white wings flutter, his expression is warm and bright. A star that vows his heart to the moon.]
[And does he ever! Considering he's taken his name from Vanitas of the Blue Moon, seeing the ring with a moon on it warms his heart, because it means that his tale has been heard. That Aether cares enough to ensure the piece of jewelry represents them both. Very much worth the flushed face that accompanies the gift.
Vanitas' expression is warm, both from the heat and happiness itself, and he can't help chuckling lightly as he touches the ring with a careful finger.
This time, when Aether moves to help him, his gaze remains firmly fixed on his lover's expression, wanting to enjoy the happiness shared between them. It's like a ceremony proper, with him holding him by the hand like this, and there's some nervous fluster to Vanitas' movements, that become full-on embarrassment when Aether get down before him. One hand comes up to hid his express as he groan, his stomach doing flip-flops at being kissed so tenderly upon the hand. He's just glad there's no one else to see him getting riled up.]
Aether... [From behind his other hand can be seen a bright red hue as his cheeks warm, until he's practically glowing. No need to guess why this time.
He feels truly adored and cared for in this moment, and it takes everything he has to not retreat into his room and slam the door shut, but... he manages. So far.]
You're ridiculous. [It's said with so much affection and love, he hopes Aether won't misinterpret the meaning behind it: thank you.]
[It's all worth it for this glorious moment when his heart feels like it's beating again.
The embarrassment on his lover's face is absolutely endearing, but Aether wouldn't do all of this if they weren't alone. He doesn't want Vanitas to feel uncomfortable... plus, it's a moment just for the two of them.
Content, the traveler stands up from the ground, still holding the other's hand in his.]
You're right... I'm ridiculous. [He says that with a grin.] Ridiculous and the happiest I've ever been. [He leans for a small kiss to Vanitas' lips, but remains close for a moment.] But I'm not done yet. [He whispers. It looks like today, he's the chaotic one.
Without any warning he scoops Vanitas up into his arms and starts carrying him back into the bedroom.
Aether also made sure nobody would be around to see that.]
I'm all yours today. It's your special day, after all.
[Funny thing to say when you're the one making your lover embarrassed.]
[This is why he appreciate Aether: willing to tease him but only so as he's not embarrassed in front of everyone. It's... kind of fun, even if his cheeks feel like they're on fire. Even that feels nice, after having been so cold for so long.
His fingers curl around Aether's, making sure he doesn't try to pull away just yet. He like this closeness.]
So over the top... [Huffing, he smiles.] If you're happy, then so am I. It means a lot, this gift. I'll wear it gladly from now on. [At the kiss, he bumps heads like an affectionate cat, gently but with purpose. Though those words make Vanitas color again. S-So suggestive...!] Oh...?
[All of sudden he finds himself being carted off bridal style, making an indignant sound escape from his lips out of surprise. But he doesn't fight it at all, only wrapping his arms around Aether's neck to help him balance. Seems today is his turn to be treated and flustered to kingdom come.]
Good... Spend it with me? We can do something fun.
[What, he's not sure, but he doesn't want to be apart from Aether today. He longs to let him know how much his presence has helped these last months.]
[Maybe that's also part of it - he wants to warm Vanitas up. Though, his blushing face is just too precious. It makes Aether want to kiss him over and over again.
As their hands are joined, the traveler can't stop smiling, enjoying every second of this moment. He's shared closeness with Vanitas many times before, but this time everything feels new and different, like the ring on his lover's finger bound them with that little vow.]
Being over the top can be fun. [He laughs.
Knowing that his gift will be always treasured warms Aether's heart. He could stay here, like this, close for eternity, but that's not realistic. Which is why he has a better plan - to give himself entirely to his lover. And the first steps take them to the bedroom.]
I will. We can do anything your heart's desire. [Gently, he settles Vanitas down on the soft mattress before sitting down beside him and leaning down to draw him into a leisurely kiss.]
[If only Aether knew just how much he already warms Vanitas' bitter heart... Especially when he gets all mushy and sappy.
So too does Vanitas enjoy the weight of the ring on his finger, the subtle tightness of it squeezing him like a mini hug from Aether. A careful reminder that his lover is here for him, through thick and thin. Something to be grateful for.]
Don't I know it... [He is the drama king, after all.
It's true that just standing around being sappy isn't feasible. But that just means they'll have to get comfortable elsewhere and do something fun together. Seeing where they're going, more color floods Vanitas' cheeks. It's hardly the first time they've been intimate, or even the third or forth. But this feels extra special after the ring.]
I'd like to do something you'd enjoy. Though I'm at a loss as to what that might be... [He's so serious all the time that finding things to do during their downtime can be difficult. But he knows they'll figure out something. At the kiss, he wraps his arms around Aether and hugs him close, sighing softly into it.]
[They all know how much Vanitas loves theatrics and exaggerations. He brings the chaos, he makes things happen. Seeing him so subdued thanks to Aether's affections is definitely refreshing. Even more considering that his lover isn't shy about seeking intimate moments or teasing Aether about it and now he's here, blushing bright when they end up in bed together.
Aether hums into the kiss, keeping it easy as they share the closeness. His own skin may be always warm, but now it feels extra warm, with a soft shade of red spreading on his cheeks as they part from their affection.]
I'm always enjoying the time with you. [His voice is soft and fond.] Is it really that difficult to think what you'd want to do with me?
[Perhaps one of the reason he gets so flustered with Aether is because he longs for the chance to let his other sides show. To not be constantly "on", performing and putting up a mask so that others will see him how he wants. Here, with Aether, he can be this version of himself. Someone who feels embarrassment just as intensely as he does other emotions.
One of them being happiness, which overwhelms him as they kiss, leading him to sigh with contentment as they part and he bumps foreheads.]
Good. I'd hate to think I bore you. [Something he doubts would ever happen.] It... kind of is. I never had much free time, you know. Back home. I was always chasing the next lead on curse-bearers, or furthering my revenge.
[He gently bumps their noses as they foreheads meet, smile sunny.]
You could never bore me. [They both know that!] Always so busy, I see. We can try many things: playing chess, fishing, exploring, looking up at the stars... [He laughs.] Hmm, some of them we can't do here or right now.
[He presses a hand to Vanitas' face, gently stroking his heated cheek.]
But I enjoy small moments with you, too: dancing with you, the way you hum soft tunes, when you brush my hair or pet my wings, when you cook something for me, when we can cook together, when I can see you falling asleep by my side and waking up still there...
[Small, silly things that make him incredibly happy. He's just a sap!]
I cherish every moment, every kiss, every touch we share. [His voice is brimming with fondness, with tender love.] I will always treasure them all.
[It's like Aether radiates warmth through his kindness, always sharing it with others so that they might never feel sadness.]
If you say so. [He finds that doubtful, but for now won't push the issue.] I haven't played chess in ages... [He sounds a touch wistful saying that; the last time he played was probably back when he was a child.] We'll have to pick something to do every week in order to get through them all.
[Leaning into the touch, he sighs with contentment.]
...haha. You really do just like my company, don't you? Well, I admit to being the same way for you. It doesn't matter what we're doing, be it simply sitting together or making love or talking just as we are now... They all make me feel pleasant.
[Which is to say, Aether makes him happy.]
Aether... You know I'll give you any of those at a moment's notice, yeah? [He would definitely since back when he was being tortured and that feather gave him enough hope to hold on.] Just so long as you can still find happiness in other things as well. I don't want you to desperate when I'm unavailable, after all.
Sounds like something we should absolutely do. [He smiles all the more.] We can do something different every week. I can think of many more things we could try.
[All the moments just with his lover.]
Of course I do. Everything feels right when I'm with you. [He searches for Vanitas' hand, the one with the ring, and brings it to his lips once more, kissing it.] It... feels like I found my home by your side and isn't one the happiest when they can return home?
[That's what he thinks.]
I know and I'm always thankful for that. [His lips press against fingers, then the tips, each one getting its own little kiss.] Don't worry. I know that I'm surrounded by people who care about me. I know that I can trust them and it makes me happy to have you all.
[He sighs a little, gaze distant for a moment.]
I'm lucky and I feel like I don't appreciate it enough.
[The gesture is one that Vanitas accepts readily, a smile upon his lips.]
Sounds like a plan, in that case. I know it'll never be boring with you around. And I promise to give it some thought so we're not just doing things you think up. Maybe we can find somewhere picturesque and draw or paint.
[Trying new things and digging up old hobbies seems like a great way to spend time together.]
Heh, it can't be everything, can it...? [Cue the playful skepticism. Though it turns into a bashful blush at the gesture of kissing his hand.] That's very true. I think. [He's never really had a home to return to, honestly...]
I'm glad to know you're aware of that. You have so many friends, it's hard for me to believe I'm anything special among them. [It's the self-loathing talking again, but rather than dwell on it, he simply smiles softly at each of those kisses.] Don't worry. I'm sure if anyone appreciates their friends, it's you. You don't take people for granted.
Everything... when we're together. [Not when he's pushed away or when feelings are hurt, but when they're in tune like right now, everything fits like pieces of puzzle.]
Hm... Maybe you're right. [Another grin, this time a little shier.] But right now I want to show you how much I appreciate you. Surely, there must be something you'd wanted to try or do with me. I'm accepting everything. [He moves Vanitas' hand to hide a little behind it.] Unless it's something extreme, then I'm not making any promises. [His tone is teasing.]
[He may have a photographic memory, but his hand-eye coordination and the skill necessary isn't something he really possesses. He never had much opportunity to practice over the years. Never had a normal childhood where he could spend doodling and drawing.
Nodding, he smiles faintly.]
Together... [It's... nice, being like this, he has to admit. Especially once Aether turns shy and bashful. It's so cute. Just like he knows he himself can be pretty adorable when flustered. They're all like that, including Vince. Though he's a lot harder to unnerve.]
Alright then. No need to worry. I won't push you into doing anything you're uncomfortable with. That's not my style. I'll save the raunchy stuff for when me and Vince play together. Instead, you and I can do something tamer, but just as enjoyable. I still want to make your feathers into jewelry; maybe you could help, and we can have matching accessories. [He likes that notion. Just spending time together doing something relaxing.]
[He laughs, remembering all the silly Paimon drawings he's made or the picture of the teapot he did for Kaveh's lessons, much to the architect's confusion as the theme was "home".]
Together. [He repeats with a smile, like he wants Vanitas to remember he's there for him, always. But then he's silent at the other's words, taking a moment to respond:]
That sounds nice, but... I have an idea of something I want to do first. [He nuzzles against Vanitas' hand, before smiling some more.] It's your birthday, so I want you to relax... A lot has been happening lately. [Too much, honestly.] So how about a massage?
[The irony would be if they're both terrible, honestly. Though teapot = home would throw Vanitas for a loop as well, at least until it was explained.
With a hum of acknowledgment and appreciation, he nods. He has no problem letting Aether do as he pleases, whatever that entails. Because Vanitas trusts him implicitly.]
Alright then. Let's hear it. [Head tilted a bit to one side, he regards his lover with a warm expression. One that shows surprise at the suggestion. But it's not a bad thing, clearly; he chuckles, tail swaying in contentment. It's a fine gesture, one he likes quite a bit.] So long as you don't mind, I'll happily submit to your careful touches. You're always so warm, I imagine that would be heavenly, heh.
[Aether gives his lover a warm smile, before pulling away slightly, hand moving to the collar, slowly proceeding to remove Vanitas' shirt.]
I'm glad you have this much trust in me. [He responds, then leans down, placing a small kiss to the other's collarbone, then to the middle of his chest as he works on unbuttoning that shirt.] I'll make sure it's worth your time.
[As much as he would love to kiss some more, he has to pull away completely, sitting beside his lover. His hands reach for Vanitas' to help him up.]
You won't need this... [He says with a small grin pushing the shirt down from Vanitas' shoulders, exposing his torso, beautiful even in its scarred form.] Lay down on your stomach and get yourself comfortable for me, okay?
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Action!!
Happy birthday!
[He nuzzles against his lover like an affectionate cat.]
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Heh, thanks... Another year survived, I guess.
[And what a ride it's been... Especially since arriving in Karteria.]
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I have a gift for you... but you need to close your eyes.
[He brushes his nose affectionately against Vanitas' then grins mischievously.]
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Hmm? Alright. No funny business, though.
[It's said teasingly as he nips at Aether's nose with playful intent. He's feeling surprisingly well now that his spectral death has passed.]
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You sound like I'm the one who causes trouble around here.
[There's some teasing back from him, accompanied by more melodious laughing.
Once Vanitas closes his eyes, Aether steps away slightly and reaches into his pocket. A small wooden box is soon in his hand and he opens it revealing a ring. It's blue stone shines like the night sky littered with tiny stars and bigger ones surround the stone, glittering in the light. The traveler chose it very carefully, since it looked like the moon and stars - something that represents them both.
He grins to himself, suddenly nervous about it all as he turns the box around to present it to Vanitas and finally says:]
You can open your eyes now.
[There was one more reason for this gift, though.
Aether really wanted his lover to wear a ring from him. He's almost tempted to ask if Vanitas would marry him now.]
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[Said with absolutely zero seriousness. He knows he's the one who is the source of chaos in their little group. Aether is a voice of reason, someone who grounds him.
Which is why he has no problem letting his lover rustle around to present him with his gift. His eyes remain firmly shut, although his feline ears swivel forward towards the sounds and his tail sways eagerly, excitement building with the anticipation. Once given the go ahead, he slowly opens one eye then the other, gaze landing on the precious present and widening until a small breath slips free from between his lips.]
Aether...
[It's beautiful, truly. He sees the significance immediately, and finds himself moved in a way he rarely is. He feels... loved. Seen and heard, appreciated. Slowly he reaches out to carefully take the box so he might get a better look at it.]
It's wonderful.
[It's said with a kind of awe, like he can't believe his lover managed to find something so perfect for them. Because that's what it is: a gift for them both, to signal to everyone what they mean to each other.]
...will you do the honors? [Of putting it on his hand. Because that seems fitting.]
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Aether smiles lovingly, wishing to commit this moment to his memory.
And then he looks surprised by the request, but eagerly nods his head just a second later. If his heart was still beating it would be jumping in his chest by now, yet even without it he still feels that joy spreading through his entire existence.
The traveler carefully takes the ring from the box, then reaches for Vanitas' hand, delicately bringing it up and closer. Except then he grins, like a prankster who came up with a new mischief, and drops on one knee. Only then he slowly puts the ring on his lover's finger, admiring it for a moment, before pressing the softest of kisses to those fingers. It's like a scared oath has just taken place and Aether doesn't think he's ever felt happier in his life.]
I love you. [He whispers against the ring and the other's skin, like a soft spell meant to be carried with the other from now on.
Then Aether looks up and smiles. His white wings flutter, his expression is warm and bright. A star that vows his heart to the moon.]
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Vanitas' expression is warm, both from the heat and happiness itself, and he can't help chuckling lightly as he touches the ring with a careful finger.
This time, when Aether moves to help him, his gaze remains firmly fixed on his lover's expression, wanting to enjoy the happiness shared between them. It's like a ceremony proper, with him holding him by the hand like this, and there's some nervous fluster to Vanitas' movements, that become full-on embarrassment when Aether get down before him. One hand comes up to hid his express as he groan, his stomach doing flip-flops at being kissed so tenderly upon the hand. He's just glad there's no one else to see him getting riled up.]
Aether... [From behind his other hand can be seen a bright red hue as his cheeks warm, until he's practically glowing. No need to guess why this time.
He feels truly adored and cared for in this moment, and it takes everything he has to not retreat into his room and slam the door shut, but... he manages. So far.]
You're ridiculous. [It's said with so much affection and love, he hopes Aether won't misinterpret the meaning behind it: thank you.]
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The embarrassment on his lover's face is absolutely endearing, but Aether wouldn't do all of this if they weren't alone. He doesn't want Vanitas to feel uncomfortable... plus, it's a moment just for the two of them.
Content, the traveler stands up from the ground, still holding the other's hand in his.]
You're right... I'm ridiculous. [He says that with a grin.] Ridiculous and the happiest I've ever been. [He leans for a small kiss to Vanitas' lips, but remains close for a moment.] But I'm not done yet. [He whispers. It looks like today, he's the chaotic one.
Without any warning he scoops Vanitas up into his arms and starts carrying him back into the bedroom.
Aether also made sure nobody would be around to see that.]
I'm all yours today. It's your special day, after all.
[Funny thing to say when you're the one making your lover embarrassed.]
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His fingers curl around Aether's, making sure he doesn't try to pull away just yet. He like this closeness.]
So over the top... [Huffing, he smiles.] If you're happy, then so am I. It means a lot, this gift. I'll wear it gladly from now on. [At the kiss, he bumps heads like an affectionate cat, gently but with purpose. Though those words make Vanitas color again. S-So suggestive...!] Oh...?
[All of sudden he finds himself being carted off bridal style, making an indignant sound escape from his lips out of surprise. But he doesn't fight it at all, only wrapping his arms around Aether's neck to help him balance. Seems today is his turn to be treated and flustered to kingdom come.]
Good... Spend it with me? We can do something fun.
[What, he's not sure, but he doesn't want to be apart from Aether today. He longs to let him know how much his presence has helped these last months.]
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As their hands are joined, the traveler can't stop smiling, enjoying every second of this moment. He's shared closeness with Vanitas many times before, but this time everything feels new and different, like the ring on his lover's finger bound them with that little vow.]
Being over the top can be fun. [He laughs.
Knowing that his gift will be always treasured warms Aether's heart. He could stay here, like this, close for eternity, but that's not realistic. Which is why he has a better plan - to give himself entirely to his lover. And the first steps take them to the bedroom.]
I will. We can do anything your heart's desire. [Gently, he settles Vanitas down on the soft mattress before sitting down beside him and leaning down to draw him into a leisurely kiss.]
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So too does Vanitas enjoy the weight of the ring on his finger, the subtle tightness of it squeezing him like a mini hug from Aether. A careful reminder that his lover is here for him, through thick and thin. Something to be grateful for.]
Don't I know it... [He is the drama king, after all.
It's true that just standing around being sappy isn't feasible. But that just means they'll have to get comfortable elsewhere and do something fun together. Seeing where they're going, more color floods Vanitas' cheeks. It's hardly the first time they've been intimate, or even the third or forth. But this feels extra special after the ring.]
I'd like to do something you'd enjoy. Though I'm at a loss as to what that might be... [He's so serious all the time that finding things to do during their downtime can be difficult. But he knows they'll figure out something. At the kiss, he wraps his arms around Aether and hugs him close, sighing softly into it.]
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Aether hums into the kiss, keeping it easy as they share the closeness. His own skin may be always warm, but now it feels extra warm, with a soft shade of red spreading on his cheeks as they part from their affection.]
I'm always enjoying the time with you. [His voice is soft and fond.] Is it really that difficult to think what you'd want to do with me?
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One of them being happiness, which overwhelms him as they kiss, leading him to sigh with contentment as they part and he bumps foreheads.]
Good. I'd hate to think I bore you. [Something he doubts would ever happen.] It... kind of is. I never had much free time, you know. Back home. I was always chasing the next lead on curse-bearers, or furthering my revenge.
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You could never bore me. [They both know that!] Always so busy, I see. We can try many things: playing chess, fishing, exploring, looking up at the stars... [He laughs.] Hmm, some of them we can't do here or right now.
[He presses a hand to Vanitas' face, gently stroking his heated cheek.]
But I enjoy small moments with you, too: dancing with you, the way you hum soft tunes, when you brush my hair or pet my wings, when you cook something for me, when we can cook together, when I can see you falling asleep by my side and waking up still there...
[Small, silly things that make him incredibly happy. He's just a sap!]
I cherish every moment, every kiss, every touch we share. [His voice is brimming with fondness, with tender love.] I will always treasure them all.
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If you say so. [He finds that doubtful, but for now won't push the issue.] I haven't played chess in ages... [He sounds a touch wistful saying that; the last time he played was probably back when he was a child.] We'll have to pick something to do every week in order to get through them all.
[Leaning into the touch, he sighs with contentment.]
...haha. You really do just like my company, don't you? Well, I admit to being the same way for you. It doesn't matter what we're doing, be it simply sitting together or making love or talking just as we are now... They all make me feel pleasant.
[Which is to say, Aether makes him happy.]
Aether... You know I'll give you any of those at a moment's notice, yeah? [He would definitely since back when he was being tortured and that feather gave him enough hope to hold on.] Just so long as you can still find happiness in other things as well. I don't want you to desperate when I'm unavailable, after all.
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Sounds like something we should absolutely do. [He smiles all the more.] We can do something different every week. I can think of many more things we could try.
[All the moments just with his lover.]
Of course I do. Everything feels right when I'm with you. [He searches for Vanitas' hand, the one with the ring, and brings it to his lips once more, kissing it.] It... feels like I found my home by your side and isn't one the happiest when they can return home?
[That's what he thinks.]
I know and I'm always thankful for that. [His lips press against fingers, then the tips, each one getting its own little kiss.] Don't worry. I know that I'm surrounded by people who care about me. I know that I can trust them and it makes me happy to have you all.
[He sighs a little, gaze distant for a moment.]
I'm lucky and I feel like I don't appreciate it enough.
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Sounds like a plan, in that case. I know it'll never be boring with you around. And I promise to give it some thought so we're not just doing things you think up. Maybe we can find somewhere picturesque and draw or paint.
[Trying new things and digging up old hobbies seems like a great way to spend time together.]
Heh, it can't be everything, can it...? [Cue the playful skepticism. Though it turns into a bashful blush at the gesture of kissing his hand.] That's very true. I think. [He's never really had a home to return to, honestly...]
I'm glad to know you're aware of that. You have so many friends, it's hard for me to believe I'm anything special among them. [It's the self-loathing talking again, but rather than dwell on it, he simply smiles softly at each of those kisses.] Don't worry. I'm sure if anyone appreciates their friends, it's you. You don't take people for granted.
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Then you can see how bad I am at drawing.
[He's not perfect at everything he does!
At the scepticism, Aether grins.]
Everything... when we're together. [Not when he's pushed away or when feelings are hurt, but when they're in tune like right now, everything fits like pieces of puzzle.]
Hm... Maybe you're right. [Another grin, this time a little shier.] But right now I want to show you how much I appreciate you. Surely, there must be something you'd wanted to try or do with me. I'm accepting everything. [He moves Vanitas' hand to hide a little behind it.] Unless it's something extreme, then I'm not making any promises. [His tone is teasing.]
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[He may have a photographic memory, but his hand-eye coordination and the skill necessary isn't something he really possesses. He never had much opportunity to practice over the years. Never had a normal childhood where he could spend doodling and drawing.
Nodding, he smiles faintly.]
Together... [It's... nice, being like this, he has to admit. Especially once Aether turns shy and bashful. It's so cute. Just like he knows he himself can be pretty adorable when flustered. They're all like that, including Vince. Though he's a lot harder to unnerve.]
Alright then. No need to worry. I won't push you into doing anything you're uncomfortable with. That's not my style. I'll save the raunchy stuff for when me and Vince play together. Instead, you and I can do something tamer, but just as enjoyable. I still want to make your feathers into jewelry; maybe you could help, and we can have matching accessories. [He likes that notion. Just spending time together doing something relaxing.]
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[He laughs, remembering all the silly Paimon drawings he's made or the picture of the teapot he did for Kaveh's lessons, much to the architect's confusion as the theme was "home".]
Together. [He repeats with a smile, like he wants Vanitas to remember he's there for him, always. But then he's silent at the other's words, taking a moment to respond:]
That sounds nice, but... I have an idea of something I want to do first. [He nuzzles against Vanitas' hand, before smiling some more.] It's your birthday, so I want you to relax... A lot has been happening lately. [Too much, honestly.] So how about a massage?
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[The irony would be if they're both terrible, honestly. Though teapot = home would throw Vanitas for a loop as well, at least until it was explained.
With a hum of acknowledgment and appreciation, he nods. He has no problem letting Aether do as he pleases, whatever that entails. Because Vanitas trusts him implicitly.]
Alright then. Let's hear it. [Head tilted a bit to one side, he regards his lover with a warm expression. One that shows surprise at the suggestion. But it's not a bad thing, clearly; he chuckles, tail swaying in contentment. It's a fine gesture, one he likes quite a bit.] So long as you don't mind, I'll happily submit to your careful touches. You're always so warm, I imagine that would be heavenly, heh.
[Angel jokes, haha...]
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I'm glad you have this much trust in me. [He responds, then leans down, placing a small kiss to the other's collarbone, then to the middle of his chest as he works on unbuttoning that shirt.] I'll make sure it's worth your time.
[As much as he would love to kiss some more, he has to pull away completely, sitting beside his lover. His hands reach for Vanitas' to help him up.]
You won't need this... [He says with a small grin pushing the shirt down from Vanitas' shoulders, exposing his torso, beautiful even in its scarred form.] Lay down on your stomach and get yourself comfortable for me, okay?