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( AAAHHHHHHH )
There is nothing to congratulate, stop that. Stop assuming things.
( Is he ignoring the direct call out, too? Yes. )
There is nothing to congratulate, stop that. Stop assuming things.
( Is he ignoring the direct call out, too? Yes. )
Huh? But you said you have a partner here! And you got all offended when I implied you might not be worried about your roommate! Which means *that* would be your partner, correct?
And all that other stuff was obvious from the start! The only thing I wasn't sure of was the sympathy part, since I sort of get the feeling it makes you uncomfortable whenever anyone feels bad for you. But that could just mean it's an "I want it, but at the same time, I don't want it!" sort of deal. We nobles have our own pride, so I understand why it's hard to accept things like sympathy.
And all that other stuff was obvious from the start! The only thing I wasn't sure of was the sympathy part, since I sort of get the feeling it makes you uncomfortable whenever anyone feels bad for you. But that could just mean it's an "I want it, but at the same time, I don't want it!" sort of deal. We nobles have our own pride, so I understand why it's hard to accept things like sympathy.
Actually, I said "Who says I don't have anything like a partner here," which doesn't necessarily mean I have. A partner. You don't need to be speculating on who's close to one, either.
In any case, I don't see why you're going on about any of this when if I did the same to you, you'd deflect and change the subject even more aggressively. Should I admit to my feelings, just for you to say "okay!" and move on like they're nothing?
In any case, I don't see why you're going on about any of this when if I did the same to you, you'd deflect and change the subject even more aggressively. Should I admit to my feelings, just for you to say "okay!" and move on like they're nothing?
[Joke's on Jun. Hiyori has been saying plenty of embarrassing things about their relationship even before they started dating.]
True! We're not absolutely shameless like some people here, and thank goodness for that.
[He says, sounding proud (?) about this. Then his voice softens and he adds:]
But maybe she noticed how close we were, or how well we seemed to fit together. It can be harder to tell that sort of thing from across a room, but there are still giveaways sometimes. Tone of voice, body language, smiles, facial expression—all sorts of things like that. Perhaps you simply had a look on your face that said, "I love my partner!"
[He smirks, happy to pin the whole thing on Jun (and not on his own sappy words about them being "beloved partners"). To be fair, it's not like people commenting on how close they are is anything new. Sometimes people make that sort of comment even when they're just arguing!
But anyway. Onto the fashion show.
A slight flush creeps into his cheeks when Jun says that "nothing I haven't seen" line (despite the fact it would've been true just by virtue of being roommates for a year). He retorts,]
Fine. But try to face the other way until I'm fully changed, alright? Otherwise, it'll spoil the grand reveal.
[Of himself, wearing his new suit, of course. With that, he gathers up the items on the bed.
Obviously if he was really dressing up to go out, he'd want to fix his bedhead and freshen up in other ways. But since this is just a size check, he goes ahead and puts on the white shirt, changes into the green pants, tucks the shirt in and smooths down the fabric, and then finally, reaches for the suitjacket. That gets buttoned and smoothed down, too. He glances at his own chest afterwards, noting how the embroidered flowers look on himself, before finally announcing:]
Alright, I'm ready! ♪
[And then he turns around at the same time to look at Jun.]
True! We're not absolutely shameless like some people here, and thank goodness for that.
[He says, sounding proud (?) about this. Then his voice softens and he adds:]
But maybe she noticed how close we were, or how well we seemed to fit together. It can be harder to tell that sort of thing from across a room, but there are still giveaways sometimes. Tone of voice, body language, smiles, facial expression—all sorts of things like that. Perhaps you simply had a look on your face that said, "I love my partner!"
[He smirks, happy to pin the whole thing on Jun (and not on his own sappy words about them being "beloved partners"). To be fair, it's not like people commenting on how close they are is anything new. Sometimes people make that sort of comment even when they're just arguing!
But anyway. Onto the fashion show.
A slight flush creeps into his cheeks when Jun says that "nothing I haven't seen" line (despite the fact it would've been true just by virtue of being roommates for a year). He retorts,]
Fine. But try to face the other way until I'm fully changed, alright? Otherwise, it'll spoil the grand reveal.
[Of himself, wearing his new suit, of course. With that, he gathers up the items on the bed.
Obviously if he was really dressing up to go out, he'd want to fix his bedhead and freshen up in other ways. But since this is just a size check, he goes ahead and puts on the white shirt, changes into the green pants, tucks the shirt in and smooths down the fabric, and then finally, reaches for the suitjacket. That gets buttoned and smoothed down, too. He glances at his own chest afterwards, noting how the embroidered flowers look on himself, before finally announcing:]
Alright, I'm ready! ♪
[And then he turns around at the same time to look at Jun.]
So he's not a partner, but someone close to one!
[Is he being obnoxious on purpose at this point? Yes he is! Next question!]
When did I say they're nothing? You just love to assume the worst! Not that I can blame you, what with everything you've got going on.
Anyway, I just told you some of my feelings, didn't I? I didn't change any subjects! We can talk about both our feelings! 💚🩷 Both our partners!
Or we can just stop here, I guess. It's hard to type on this thing when my fingers always feel numb. I'm not sure how you do it.
[Is he being obnoxious on purpose at this point? Yes he is! Next question!]
When did I say they're nothing? You just love to assume the worst! Not that I can blame you, what with everything you've got going on.
Anyway, I just told you some of my feelings, didn't I? I didn't change any subjects! We can talk about both our feelings! 💚🩷 Both our partners!
Or we can just stop here, I guess. It's hard to type on this thing when my fingers always feel numb. I'm not sure how you do it.
( Urgh... This talk is making him so nervous he feels nauseous. It's disgusting, it's not like him, it's true, in some ways, and he doesn't want to admit his feelings, doesn't want to be vulnerable in any way that can leave him to be hurt—
Even his anger is struggling to come through with the intense fear of abandonment he has twisting in his gut. )
When it's all you've known, you become used to things like that. It is more difficult sometimes than others.
( He doesn't even know what to say to address, or dodge, the other stuff. Feels sick just trying. So, he leaves it as that. )
Even his anger is struggling to come through with the intense fear of abandonment he has twisting in his gut. )
When it's all you've known, you become used to things like that. It is more difficult sometimes than others.
( He doesn't even know what to say to address, or dodge, the other stuff. Feels sick just trying. So, he leaves it as that. )
Yep, old habits die hard, that's what everyone says! But hopefully your roommate doesn't make you feel like your feelings are nothing.
And hopefully he can help calm your anxieties a bit, too. Don't tell anyone this, but sometimes when I feel anxious, Jun-kun will sing me a lullaby until I feel better. That's the sort of thing partners are good for!
[He's just bragging now...]
And hopefully he can help calm your anxieties a bit, too. Don't tell anyone this, but sometimes when I feel anxious, Jun-kun will sing me a lullaby until I feel better. That's the sort of thing partners are good for!
[He's just bragging now...]
( Ugh. That sounds horrible. The image of Dabi singing him a lullaby earns a laugh out loud, though, despite the anxiety inducing feelings surrounding everything. He scrubs his face before he replies. )
No one has ever sung me a lullaby, and I'd hardly want it now.
I only have so much time left. In the end, my feelings are nothing. I don't care about that.
( Yes he does. )
I suppose I'm happy for you, though. It must be nice to have the support. Has he helped you through this? If I've made you grow a little closer, I deserve some credit, you know.
No one has ever sung me a lullaby, and I'd hardly want it now.
I only have so much time left. In the end, my feelings are nothing. I don't care about that.
( Yes he does. )
I suppose I'm happy for you, though. It must be nice to have the support. Has he helped you through this? If I've made you grow a little closer, I deserve some credit, you know.
[Ugh, what a downer. Even though he could swear he felt something like amusement coming from Esikko just now.]
We were already close without your help, thanks! And I can tell you he doesn't see things that way.
[Jun was very mad when he first saw the state that Hiyori was in. Even though Hiyori did admit that he agreed to the whole feelings connection thing. Jun's never had a positive reaction to anything he told him about Esikko, come to think of it. In fact, when Hiyori told him that someone here witnessed a murder but couldn't say who did it, he was all, "You know that sounds hella suspicious, right?" As though Esikko-kun did it himself! Which, well—Hiyori can't blame him, since even he wouldn't believe someone could be such a misfortune magnet if he hadn't met Esikko for himself and heard (parts of) his tragic life story!
But anyway.]
But going back to what you said about "not having much time left" - are you sure about that? I mean, I know why you'd feel that way, since living with your illness is just awful. But this place can bring people back from the dead, according to you. And there are all sorts of people with healing magic here.
We were already close without your help, thanks! And I can tell you he doesn't see things that way.
[Jun was very mad when he first saw the state that Hiyori was in. Even though Hiyori did admit that he agreed to the whole feelings connection thing. Jun's never had a positive reaction to anything he told him about Esikko, come to think of it. In fact, when Hiyori told him that someone here witnessed a murder but couldn't say who did it, he was all, "You know that sounds hella suspicious, right?" As though Esikko-kun did it himself! Which, well—Hiyori can't blame him, since even he wouldn't believe someone could be such a misfortune magnet if he hadn't met Esikko for himself and heard (parts of) his tragic life story!
But anyway.]
But going back to what you said about "not having much time left" - are you sure about that? I mean, I know why you'd feel that way, since living with your illness is just awful. But this place can bring people back from the dead, according to you. And there are all sorts of people with healing magic here.
The House isn't the only one who can bring people back from the dead. But it may be the only one who doesn't have to face any consequences for it.
My body can only take so much, and I've become well aware of its limits.
My body can only take so much, and I've become well aware of its limits.
[What does that first thing mean? What does the second thing mean? What does any of this mean?]
I wasn't saying you should die and get revived.
[But, well. Maybe the clinic could heal him somehow? Even though Hiyori would not want to trust the medical staff here himself...]
What about your wish? I'm still not convinced that whole thing isn't a scam, but you are playing that 52 game, right? And you don't seem too keen on using your wish to go home. Maybe you can ask them to cure you!
I wasn't saying you should die and get revived.
[But, well. Maybe the clinic could heal him somehow? Even though Hiyori would not want to trust the medical staff here himself...]
What about your wish? I'm still not convinced that whole thing isn't a scam, but you are playing that 52 game, right? And you don't seem too keen on using your wish to go home. Maybe you can ask them to cure you!
[ No wonder why people had the idea they were dating before they were. It’s all Hiyori’s doing! (And partly Jun’s!) ]
But from far away, Ohii-san? She’s gotta have pretty good eyesight to tell from across a room. Well, whatever! Guess she knows without being told.
[ No comment on the body language part. Sometimes Jun catches himself staring at Hiyori with a big, goofy grin which might be classed as him saying “I love my partner.” And other times he looks at Hiyori fondly. Maybe their body language gave them away, after all!
It wouldn’t be the first time, or even the last.
And it’s true, Jun could have seen anything due to them being roommates back in Reimei. But he lets it slide, nodding his head as if to say he won’t spoil the grand surprise.
With that out of the way, he shrugs off his shirt, letting it fall onto the bed. Reaching for the pants, he’s pleased to find they fit perfectly. Next he slips on the suit jacket, smoothing fingers down the lapel and across the embroidery.
Despite feeling slightly exposed with the jacket left unbuttoned, the fabric feels comfortable against his skin. His muscles don’t quite spill out, but there’s enough chest and abs on display which might stop someone in their tracks. ]
Hey, I never said I was ready!
[ Well, it hardly matters now because he was basically ready. Anyway, he turns around to face Hiyori, tugging on the sleeves of the jacket.
Hiyori, dressed in the sleek, green suit, looks as if he’s stepped straight out of a magazine. Even if his hair isn’t done, the bags under his eyes are as clear as ever..! But if Jun’s being honest, he thinks Hiyori looks as beautiful as ever! Continuing to drink in the sight, a fond smile curls at the corner of his mouth, taking a deep breath in. ]
You look beautiful, Ohii-san! The colour really brings out your eyes ♪
[ Not that Jun knows much about fashion to begin with… ]
But from far away, Ohii-san? She’s gotta have pretty good eyesight to tell from across a room. Well, whatever! Guess she knows without being told.
[ No comment on the body language part. Sometimes Jun catches himself staring at Hiyori with a big, goofy grin which might be classed as him saying “I love my partner.” And other times he looks at Hiyori fondly. Maybe their body language gave them away, after all!
It wouldn’t be the first time, or even the last.
And it’s true, Jun could have seen anything due to them being roommates back in Reimei. But he lets it slide, nodding his head as if to say he won’t spoil the grand surprise.
With that out of the way, he shrugs off his shirt, letting it fall onto the bed. Reaching for the pants, he’s pleased to find they fit perfectly. Next he slips on the suit jacket, smoothing fingers down the lapel and across the embroidery.
Despite feeling slightly exposed with the jacket left unbuttoned, the fabric feels comfortable against his skin. His muscles don’t quite spill out, but there’s enough chest and abs on display which might stop someone in their tracks. ]
Hey, I never said I was ready!
[ Well, it hardly matters now because he was basically ready. Anyway, he turns around to face Hiyori, tugging on the sleeves of the jacket.
Hiyori, dressed in the sleek, green suit, looks as if he’s stepped straight out of a magazine. Even if his hair isn’t done, the bags under his eyes are as clear as ever..! But if Jun’s being honest, he thinks Hiyori looks as beautiful as ever! Continuing to drink in the sight, a fond smile curls at the corner of his mouth, taking a deep breath in. ]
You look beautiful, Ohii-san! The colour really brings out your eyes ♪
[ Not that Jun knows much about fashion to begin with… ]
I don't trust the wish. I'm not fully playing so much as idly amusing myself and earning money along the way.
Do you think the House can stand against the gods cursing me? I'm not so certain. I'll carve my own way out, to wherever I do want to go.
Do you think the House can stand against the gods cursing me? I'm not so certain. I'll carve my own way out, to wherever I do want to go.
[Maybe she was watching them like a hawk. That's possible! (And a tad creepy, but what isn't around here?)
Hiyori usually takes longer to get ready than Jun (which has led to its share of bickering in the past), so pardon him for assuming Jun would be ready before he is! It doesn't ultimately matter, though. Jun turns around soon after he does, giving an eyeful of himself in the matching suit, which does indeed seem to fit him well. Almost too well. It's not often that Hiyori sees him wear this sort of thing, and he makes for a captivating sight, open chest or no open chest.
Though it's true that the exposed skin doesn't look unappealing. You'd think this is the sort of outfit that requires a nice crisp business shirt underneath, but nope. Jun makes it look good wearing nothing under the jacket, and it oddly seems to suit him more that way.
Not that he's looking anywhere he shouldn't be. He doesn't need to be told "My eyes are up here!" Because when he looks at Jun's face, what he sees is equally captivating. Soft, affectionate gold eyes, and a soft smile. And then Jun calls him beautiful and his heart skips. What else could he do but smile back?]
Jun-kun's gotten better at giving compliments.
[He doesn't mean just the "beautiful" thing. "The color brings out your eyes" doesn't quite seem like the kind of thing Jun would've said before, either. Perhaps some of Hiyori's teachings about fashion have rubbed off on him, too. Or maybe that's just the power or love talking.]
You look pretty good, too. The flowers sort of speak to our feminine charm as Eve, but Jun-kun still looks manly. He gets to look classy and show off his muscles~♪ Plus it looks like the measurements are a perfect fit.
[Which would mean his assumption was right, and the second suit was made for Jun. Then again, it's not like Hiyori's tried it on for himself. Maybe it'd fit him, too. He has a feeling from looking at it that it really does fit Jun (and his muscular chest) better, though. Like it was made for him.
In any case, he doesn't suggest they swap. Instead he nods towards the bathroom.]
Let's go look at ourselves in the mirror! ♪ You should see for yourself how you look. And we should both see how good we look together. That should tell us whether the suits are meant to be worn as a couple's outfit.
Hiyori usually takes longer to get ready than Jun (which has led to its share of bickering in the past), so pardon him for assuming Jun would be ready before he is! It doesn't ultimately matter, though. Jun turns around soon after he does, giving an eyeful of himself in the matching suit, which does indeed seem to fit him well. Almost too well. It's not often that Hiyori sees him wear this sort of thing, and he makes for a captivating sight, open chest or no open chest.
Though it's true that the exposed skin doesn't look unappealing. You'd think this is the sort of outfit that requires a nice crisp business shirt underneath, but nope. Jun makes it look good wearing nothing under the jacket, and it oddly seems to suit him more that way.
Not that he's looking anywhere he shouldn't be. He doesn't need to be told "My eyes are up here!" Because when he looks at Jun's face, what he sees is equally captivating. Soft, affectionate gold eyes, and a soft smile. And then Jun calls him beautiful and his heart skips. What else could he do but smile back?]
Jun-kun's gotten better at giving compliments.
[He doesn't mean just the "beautiful" thing. "The color brings out your eyes" doesn't quite seem like the kind of thing Jun would've said before, either. Perhaps some of Hiyori's teachings about fashion have rubbed off on him, too. Or maybe that's just the power or love talking.]
You look pretty good, too. The flowers sort of speak to our feminine charm as Eve, but Jun-kun still looks manly. He gets to look classy and show off his muscles~♪ Plus it looks like the measurements are a perfect fit.
[Which would mean his assumption was right, and the second suit was made for Jun. Then again, it's not like Hiyori's tried it on for himself. Maybe it'd fit him, too. He has a feeling from looking at it that it really does fit Jun (and his muscular chest) better, though. Like it was made for him.
In any case, he doesn't suggest they swap. Instead he nods towards the bathroom.]
Let's go look at ourselves in the mirror! ♪ You should see for yourself how you look. And we should both see how good we look together. That should tell us whether the suits are meant to be worn as a couple's outfit.
Edited 2024-08-22 15:19 (UTC)
[He means he was cursed by God metaphorically... right?]
Well, you *do* seem pretty cursed here, so I guess not.
But you also sound like you have a plan. So, that's good. Do whatever you need to do, I guess.
[Then, after a pause:]
By the way, I have a question about this connection thing! Did you ever figure out how compatible our souls are? You must have an answer by now, right?
Well, you *do* seem pretty cursed here, so I guess not.
But you also sound like you have a plan. So, that's good. Do whatever you need to do, I guess.
[Then, after a pause:]
By the way, I have a question about this connection thing! Did you ever figure out how compatible our souls are? You must have an answer by now, right?
[ Hopefully she wasn't watching them like a hawk! (She could be bored and people-watch in her establishment. Who knows at this point!)
Hiyori usually does, which Jun's made fun of numerous times before. But this time he took a little longer to put on the suit. He's still in disbelief this suit was made specifically for him, where it fits snugly and comfortably against his muscles without feeling too tight. He can even stretch his arm out without the fabric straining. But what's more, is how Hiyori thinks he'll look in the suit.
For now, he'll leave it unbuttoned, wanting to let his muscles shine. He hopes it looks nice, and Hiyori likes the way he looks. He half-grins, allowing Hiyori to look and take in the suit however he likes, taking in the returning smile. ]
I'm learning, Ohii-san! Can't keep giving the same compliments, 'cause I gotta keep ya on your toes ♪
[ And he needs to step it up, because when he looks at Hiyori, especially like this and truly thinks about it... Well, he does look beautiful and the colour does bring out his eyes! Maybe the suit's power doesn't affect Jun because he's already in love and completely captivated by the person wearing it. ]
Just "pretty good"? Yeah, I think you've got that right 'bout our charm! Our fans would probably wanna see us in 'em. Long as you think I still look "classy," I won't feel bad 'bout wearing the suit out ♪ And yep, it fits pretty snug! I dunno how she knew our measurements, but she seriously got it spot on ♪
[ Which means Hiyori's assumption is correct! Though Jun was sceptical, Hiyori's extensive knowledge from looks alone surprised him. The fact he could discern so much from looks alone leaves him feeling impressed. ]
Mhm, let's go! I wanna see how I look and I wanna see what we look like together ♪ Well, you're the one thinkin' it's a couples outfit, so... I dunno what a couples outfit looks like, Ohii-san.
[ But perhaps when they're side-to-side, looking at one another in the mirror, it'll all become clear. He flattens out the lapel, nodding towards the bathroom.
He tugs on Hiyori's hand, pulling them both into the bathroom and staring into the mirror. The flowers do seem to match, and the colours complement each other, but Jun, not being as fashion-savvy as Hiyori, is still a bit puzzled. ]
... so, what d'you think? I'd say we complement one another pretty well ♪
Hiyori usually does, which Jun's made fun of numerous times before. But this time he took a little longer to put on the suit. He's still in disbelief this suit was made specifically for him, where it fits snugly and comfortably against his muscles without feeling too tight. He can even stretch his arm out without the fabric straining. But what's more, is how Hiyori thinks he'll look in the suit.
For now, he'll leave it unbuttoned, wanting to let his muscles shine. He hopes it looks nice, and Hiyori likes the way he looks. He half-grins, allowing Hiyori to look and take in the suit however he likes, taking in the returning smile. ]
I'm learning, Ohii-san! Can't keep giving the same compliments, 'cause I gotta keep ya on your toes ♪
[ And he needs to step it up, because when he looks at Hiyori, especially like this and truly thinks about it... Well, he does look beautiful and the colour does bring out his eyes! Maybe the suit's power doesn't affect Jun because he's already in love and completely captivated by the person wearing it. ]
Just "pretty good"? Yeah, I think you've got that right 'bout our charm! Our fans would probably wanna see us in 'em. Long as you think I still look "classy," I won't feel bad 'bout wearing the suit out ♪ And yep, it fits pretty snug! I dunno how she knew our measurements, but she seriously got it spot on ♪
[ Which means Hiyori's assumption is correct! Though Jun was sceptical, Hiyori's extensive knowledge from looks alone surprised him. The fact he could discern so much from looks alone leaves him feeling impressed. ]
Mhm, let's go! I wanna see how I look and I wanna see what we look like together ♪ Well, you're the one thinkin' it's a couples outfit, so... I dunno what a couples outfit looks like, Ohii-san.
[ But perhaps when they're side-to-side, looking at one another in the mirror, it'll all become clear. He flattens out the lapel, nodding towards the bathroom.
He tugs on Hiyori's hand, pulling them both into the bathroom and staring into the mirror. The flowers do seem to match, and the colours complement each other, but Jun, not being as fashion-savvy as Hiyori, is still a bit puzzled. ]
... so, what d'you think? I'd say we complement one another pretty well ♪
( ...sure! )
It's not quantifiable, but... If we were incompatible, the link wouldn't have worked so well at all. For it to last this long, too, has implications of similarities at some level.
It's not quantifiable, but... If we were incompatible, the link wouldn't have worked so well at all. For it to last this long, too, has implications of similarities at some level.
Excellent thinking! ♪ I'll look forward to hearing more creative compliments from Jun-kun in the future! And if you ever need suggestions, you can always ask me for ideas, since I'm always up to the task of praising myself! ♪
[Is that something to brag about...? And wouldn't that defeat the whole idea of creativity? Well, whatever.
In response to the next thing, he chirps,]
Yes, "pretty good!" Don't tell me Jun-kun was itching to be called "handsome" or something like that?
[He smirks. Then he adds,]
But if that's what you want, then I guess I can call you that. Since Jun-kun does look handsome.
[And beautiful, too, actually. Hiyori's always thought him to be beautiful. But that's somehow more embarrassing than calling him handsome, and he has a feeling Jun would look at him funny if he did. Then again, his reaction might be funny.
But back to the suits. Jun confirms with his next word that the suit is a perfect fit, which means Hiyori's hunch was correct. And that pleases him, somehow, in ways he doesn't quite know how to express in words at first.
That pleasure only intensifies when they head into the bathroom, standing shoulder-to-shoulder in fromt of the mirror. Like this, he can appreciate the full effect of their "couple's outfit." A quiet warmth spreads inside his chest, and all he says at first is,]
Of course we do. We're Eve!
[But that's not all. Is it?
As Eve and as Eden, they've worn complimentary outfits before. Identical ones, ones with slightly changed designs, and ones that reflect their respective image colors. Wearing matching clothes is nothing new, in other words. So why does seeing them like this in the mirror tug at his heartstrings now? It could just be that they're dating now and they weren't at home, but it also feels like it's more than that. In a way, the present from Jin Mingming feels like validation. This whole time he's been worried that their relationship is a liability here, that the House will punish them or tear them apart. It's keeping them from playing the game, after all, which is what they've been brought here for. Jin Mingming's own words had scared him to the point of nightmares.
And yet she did this for him. And it feels like their relationship—their love for each other—has been recognized: not as something that needs to be broken up, but as something worth paying tribute to. Something beautiful.
Perhaps he's reading too much into it, but that's what it feels like.
The look in his eyes softens, and he finds his fingers brushing Jun's.]
... it's nice, isn't it?
[He graps his hand lightly and squeezes.]
I see why you wanted to pick out matching jewelry.
[Is that something to brag about...? And wouldn't that defeat the whole idea of creativity? Well, whatever.
In response to the next thing, he chirps,]
Yes, "pretty good!" Don't tell me Jun-kun was itching to be called "handsome" or something like that?
[He smirks. Then he adds,]
But if that's what you want, then I guess I can call you that. Since Jun-kun does look handsome.
[And beautiful, too, actually. Hiyori's always thought him to be beautiful. But that's somehow more embarrassing than calling him handsome, and he has a feeling Jun would look at him funny if he did. Then again, his reaction might be funny.
But back to the suits. Jun confirms with his next word that the suit is a perfect fit, which means Hiyori's hunch was correct. And that pleases him, somehow, in ways he doesn't quite know how to express in words at first.
That pleasure only intensifies when they head into the bathroom, standing shoulder-to-shoulder in fromt of the mirror. Like this, he can appreciate the full effect of their "couple's outfit." A quiet warmth spreads inside his chest, and all he says at first is,]
Of course we do. We're Eve!
[But that's not all. Is it?
As Eve and as Eden, they've worn complimentary outfits before. Identical ones, ones with slightly changed designs, and ones that reflect their respective image colors. Wearing matching clothes is nothing new, in other words. So why does seeing them like this in the mirror tug at his heartstrings now? It could just be that they're dating now and they weren't at home, but it also feels like it's more than that. In a way, the present from Jin Mingming feels like validation. This whole time he's been worried that their relationship is a liability here, that the House will punish them or tear them apart. It's keeping them from playing the game, after all, which is what they've been brought here for. Jin Mingming's own words had scared him to the point of nightmares.
And yet she did this for him. And it feels like their relationship—their love for each other—has been recognized: not as something that needs to be broken up, but as something worth paying tribute to. Something beautiful.
Perhaps he's reading too much into it, but that's what it feels like.
The look in his eyes softens, and he finds his fingers brushing Jun's.]
... it's nice, isn't it?
[He graps his hand lightly and squeezes.]
I see why you wanted to pick out matching jewelry.
[ He's teetering on the edge of losing control, desperately wanting to take what he desires and make Hiyori lose control as well. At the moment, this may seem like the opposite of a problem with Hiyori. But would he still feel this way if Jun were to completely lose restraint?
Just when Jun got lucky, right as he discovered a new angle that wiped the smug retort off Hiyori's face. Consumed by a haze of desire, he craves to hear Hiyori whimper beneath him. But Hiyori doesn't even need to finish his gloating retort since Jun's mind is constantly consumed by thoughts of him and his silly, little whims. ]
Ye..ah, whatever you want.
[ In a shaky voice, he murmurs into Hiyori's temple, sensing his desire for more. Determined to please, Jun takes a deep breath and uncurls his finger, no longer teasing with his touches. He wants to voice his needs, but hesitates, fearing he may not do enough or inadvertently hurt Hiyori, being so focused on his pleasure.
As Hiyori's hips ground against his hand, his finger curls instinctively. He peers down, watching the unblemished skin of his bare throat, and further watching Hiyori's lips part. Shifting slightly, he moves his thumb away, pressing the tip of his pointer finger against the delicate rim instead.
Hesitant, he decides against pushing forward, wanting to ensure this is truly Ohii-san's desire for more. Instead, he lowers his head, pressing a soft kiss to Hiyori's neck, breath hot and ragged, he still hesitates. ]
Listen, what d'you, uh, want... more of?
[ So much for giving Ohii-san "whatever he wants."
It does sound something close to a plea, but Jun, still so unsure, needs to know. Despite having his finger deeply inserted, the warmth enveloping him, Jun's maintaining a clear and focused state of mind. .. or as much as he can. He's overthinking again, lost in the depths of pleasure, and wanting to be a good, attentive lover. The uncertainty in his voice is clear, but Jun wants to get this right. ]
Can.. didja want me to use another finger or is it good with one?
Just when Jun got lucky, right as he discovered a new angle that wiped the smug retort off Hiyori's face. Consumed by a haze of desire, he craves to hear Hiyori whimper beneath him. But Hiyori doesn't even need to finish his gloating retort since Jun's mind is constantly consumed by thoughts of him and his silly, little whims. ]
Ye..ah, whatever you want.
[ In a shaky voice, he murmurs into Hiyori's temple, sensing his desire for more. Determined to please, Jun takes a deep breath and uncurls his finger, no longer teasing with his touches. He wants to voice his needs, but hesitates, fearing he may not do enough or inadvertently hurt Hiyori, being so focused on his pleasure.
As Hiyori's hips ground against his hand, his finger curls instinctively. He peers down, watching the unblemished skin of his bare throat, and further watching Hiyori's lips part. Shifting slightly, he moves his thumb away, pressing the tip of his pointer finger against the delicate rim instead.
Hesitant, he decides against pushing forward, wanting to ensure this is truly Ohii-san's desire for more. Instead, he lowers his head, pressing a soft kiss to Hiyori's neck, breath hot and ragged, he still hesitates. ]
Listen, what d'you, uh, want... more of?
[ So much for giving Ohii-san "whatever he wants."
It does sound something close to a plea, but Jun, still so unsure, needs to know. Despite having his finger deeply inserted, the warmth enveloping him, Jun's maintaining a clear and focused state of mind. .. or as much as he can. He's overthinking again, lost in the depths of pleasure, and wanting to be a good, attentive lover. The uncertainty in his voice is clear, but Jun wants to get this right. ]
Can.. didja want me to use another finger or is it good with one?
( Haha. So Hiyori doesn't want to admit he's like him, huh? Esikko can't even blame him for that. But he is annoyed, anyway. )
Are you so sure about that? Well, but the magic doesn't spell it out for me, so perhaps you should sit down and think about it for a while if you're so curious.
Are you so sure about that? Well, but the magic doesn't spell it out for me, so perhaps you should sit down and think about it for a while if you're so curious.
Pretty much! We're both nobles and we both like flowers, but otherwise we seem like polar opposites.
✨☀️✨😊✨💚✨🎶✨🌻✨
^ My personality is like that, but yours isn't the same at all! You're more of a 😔, 🌫️ and 🌦️ type!
And then instead of a sunflower, you'd probably be something like a rose with a thorn on a stem. I guess I might be rose-like in some ways too, though. I *am* beautiful like one.
All the sparkles are literal, by the way. Recently I found out what my soul looked like. It was sparkly like that!
✨☀️✨😊✨💚✨🎶✨🌻✨
^ My personality is like that, but yours isn't the same at all! You're more of a 😔, 🌫️ and 🌦️ type!
And then instead of a sunflower, you'd probably be something like a rose with a thorn on a stem. I guess I might be rose-like in some ways too, though. I *am* beautiful like one.
All the sparkles are literal, by the way. Recently I found out what my soul looked like. It was sparkly like that!
[ It would defeat the whole idea of creativity, but he rolls his eyes with a smile. Besides, giving away what he's going to say in advance makes the other compliments moot. And with that in mind, he doesn't need any help! He'll figure it out, come up with new compliments and cherish Hiyori even more.
Even with Hiyori bragging, no one needs to hear him praising himself today. ]
Well, I thought you'd say something else. It's not like I'm fishing for compliments, I'm just saying... I’d rather not be called that if you don’t really mean it, Ohii-san. But, thanks ♪
[ But Hiyori's hunch is right, he expected something other than "pretty good." And maybe, deep down, he hoped he might be called handsome, or anything else. He still doesn't know that Hiyori thought he was beautiful, but would he get a big head about it? Well, probably! He'd probably think Hiyori bumped his head again or drank something strange. Either way, he'll take the handsome compliment and smile.
Is it just because they're Eve? Or is it something else? Sure, they've worn numerous matching outfits before. It's just how life is as an idol! But this feels different, having them stand shoulder-to-shoulder, bathroom mirror showing off both of their matching suits from top to tail. Something feels right, despite Jun's scepticism from earlier, he realises now Jin did mean to tailor him a suit. Watching through the mirror his heart feels full, knowing even when they haven't been shouting their relationship to the rooftops, it's still known to someone here and doesn't seem too much of a liability.
It is something beautiful, their relationship, and their love for each other. Jun never knew love could feel this intense, and it's something he never wants to squander. Despite where it's blossomed and bloomed, his eyes soften feeling Hiyori's fingers brush against his. ]
Yeah, it's nice, really nice.
[ He breathes out, giving the hand in his a squeeze back. ]
Huh, what didja mean by that?
[ Genuinely curious, Jun wonders why Hiyori would have that particular thought about them wearing matching suits now. He hadn't realised they'd moved past that point, even though they had discussed it extensively before.
... Or to the point where they'd come to a mutual understanding. ]
Even with Hiyori bragging, no one needs to hear him praising himself today. ]
Well, I thought you'd say something else. It's not like I'm fishing for compliments, I'm just saying... I’d rather not be called that if you don’t really mean it, Ohii-san. But, thanks ♪
[ But Hiyori's hunch is right, he expected something other than "pretty good." And maybe, deep down, he hoped he might be called handsome, or anything else. He still doesn't know that Hiyori thought he was beautiful, but would he get a big head about it? Well, probably! He'd probably think Hiyori bumped his head again or drank something strange. Either way, he'll take the handsome compliment and smile.
Is it just because they're Eve? Or is it something else? Sure, they've worn numerous matching outfits before. It's just how life is as an idol! But this feels different, having them stand shoulder-to-shoulder, bathroom mirror showing off both of their matching suits from top to tail. Something feels right, despite Jun's scepticism from earlier, he realises now Jin did mean to tailor him a suit. Watching through the mirror his heart feels full, knowing even when they haven't been shouting their relationship to the rooftops, it's still known to someone here and doesn't seem too much of a liability.
It is something beautiful, their relationship, and their love for each other. Jun never knew love could feel this intense, and it's something he never wants to squander. Despite where it's blossomed and bloomed, his eyes soften feeling Hiyori's fingers brush against his. ]
Yeah, it's nice, really nice.
[ He breathes out, giving the hand in his a squeeze back. ]
Huh, what didja mean by that?
[ Genuinely curious, Jun wonders why Hiyori would have that particular thought about them wearing matching suits now. He hadn't realised they'd moved past that point, even though they had discussed it extensively before.
... Or to the point where they'd come to a mutual understanding. ]
["Something else," huh? His eyes spark with curiousity as he wonders what that might be. Despite his obnoxious personality, he does want to tell Jun the things he wants to hear. Jun deserves to have a partner who makes him feel loved. It's just hard to find a middle ground sometimes between holding back enough not to embarrass himself and holding back too much.
But maybe, just maybe, he doesn't need to hold back at all. Not all the time, anyway. Maybe he can live with a little embarrassment.
And he's not embarrassed at all now as he opens his mouth and confirms:]
Well, I do mean it.
[There's no teasing tone, no argument; it's not a sassy retort. He just smiles gently, hoping his sincerity will shine through.
Jun does look handsome in the suit; they both do. That much is abundantly clear from looking at themselves in the mirror. They make an attractive couple, which he knows is what the suits are for: not a unit outfit (though they could be worn as such), but a couple's outfit. He and Jun were recognized as lovers. Not just cards.
He thinks about that and about the gold string that hasn't come off yet, even though he's done away with all his other strings at this point. He thinks about the suite they share together, the bird who's sleeping in her nest, the life they've built here. All of it as a pair, as "partners." Not alone.
He looks at them in the mirror, his fingers twined together with Jun's. His are still colder than their usual temperature. Timeline-wise, the connection with Esikko should still be ongoing, which I failed to realize when I started this thread. At least Weiss helped him find a way to cope with it. A reminder that things are less-than-ideal. Nothing is ideal; they're still being toyed with at every opportunity, still in danger of disappearing. Yet it wouldn't be the first time they've survived a corrupt environment. And not just survived, but thrived... isn't that right?
For the first time since Vil told him about the statues, he feels something like hope swell in his chest.
He turns to look at Jun properly.]
I don't quite know how to explain. But doesn't it sort of feel like our love is being recognized? Of course I don't need anyone's approval to love Jun-kun. And we don't need matching outfits, matching rings, or anything like that, either. But...
[He squeezes Jun's hand, his eyes narrowing in thought.]
It feels good to have something like that anyway, doesn't it? It's another way to show where our hearts are, no matter how much they say that sort of thing isn't done here. It feels almost like we're being told not to give up. And I wonder...
[He trails off.
Jin Mingming said the goal of this place, more or less, was to get everyone to be intimate with people they never would've met otherwise. People from different worlds. In doing so, this changes their fate. She said she didn't think being intimate with someone from their homeworld would promote longevity within the resort. But she also gave them this gift. Was it a consolation prize, because she knew her words upset him? Or was it an attempt to say something else?]
But maybe, just maybe, he doesn't need to hold back at all. Not all the time, anyway. Maybe he can live with a little embarrassment.
And he's not embarrassed at all now as he opens his mouth and confirms:]
Well, I do mean it.
[There's no teasing tone, no argument; it's not a sassy retort. He just smiles gently, hoping his sincerity will shine through.
Jun does look handsome in the suit; they both do. That much is abundantly clear from looking at themselves in the mirror. They make an attractive couple, which he knows is what the suits are for: not a unit outfit (though they could be worn as such), but a couple's outfit. He and Jun were recognized as lovers. Not just cards.
He thinks about that and about the gold string that hasn't come off yet, even though he's done away with all his other strings at this point. He thinks about the suite they share together, the bird who's sleeping in her nest, the life they've built here. All of it as a pair, as "partners." Not alone.
He looks at them in the mirror, his fingers twined together with Jun's. His are still colder than their usual temperature. Timeline-wise, the connection with Esikko should still be ongoing, which I failed to realize when I started this thread. At least Weiss helped him find a way to cope with it. A reminder that things are less-than-ideal. Nothing is ideal; they're still being toyed with at every opportunity, still in danger of disappearing. Yet it wouldn't be the first time they've survived a corrupt environment. And not just survived, but thrived... isn't that right?
For the first time since Vil told him about the statues, he feels something like hope swell in his chest.
He turns to look at Jun properly.]
I don't quite know how to explain. But doesn't it sort of feel like our love is being recognized? Of course I don't need anyone's approval to love Jun-kun. And we don't need matching outfits, matching rings, or anything like that, either. But...
[He squeezes Jun's hand, his eyes narrowing in thought.]
It feels good to have something like that anyway, doesn't it? It's another way to show where our hearts are, no matter how much they say that sort of thing isn't done here. It feels almost like we're being told not to give up. And I wonder...
[He trails off.
Jin Mingming said the goal of this place, more or less, was to get everyone to be intimate with people they never would've met otherwise. People from different worlds. In doing so, this changes their fate. She said she didn't think being intimate with someone from their homeworld would promote longevity within the resort. But she also gave them this gift. Was it a consolation prize, because she knew her words upset him? Or was it an attempt to say something else?]
[He thinks for another minute, before he disembarks his train of thought and boards a different one.]
Jun-kun.
[His gaze, which had looked lost in thought for a minute there, suddenly focuses.]
If we did the matching rings now, do you think that'd count as "giving ourselves"?
Jun-kun.
[His gaze, which had looked lost in thought for a minute there, suddenly focuses.]
If we did the matching rings now, do you think that'd count as "giving ourselves"?
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