[ sadly, it does have to end, because Lupin needs to breathe - after a long moment, he pulls back quietly, letting out a small sigh. The bite of the cold remains on his lips after parting, but he doesn't mind; the warm buzz filling his body offsets it. He doesn't even know how long he's wanted to do that anymore. How many months? Who knows - but he's done it at last, and more: he's taken their heart, too. The feeling of giddy satisfaction that had left him briefly while he tried to calm Cairngorm's worries is coming back. They felt the same. They let him kiss them -- no, they even tried to kiss him back, despite not knowing what to do and being afraid of hurting him. He looks as cool and collected as ever, smiling roguishly at them over the scant few inches he's put between them, but there's a spark of excitement in his eyes. ]
That was much better.
[ teasing, but very, very affectionate. He delicately brushes a stray strand of hair behind their ear before at last letting them go, standing up straight again and letting his hand fall to his side. (Naturally, the one interlocked with theirs stays that way - he couldn't escape their grip, and he doesn't want to, anyway.) ]
And with that, my mission's accomplished. [ a grin, playful, a bit more tender than usual. ] Thank you kindly, ma chérie. I think I'll be enjoying my stolen rewards for a while to come.
[ Naturally, they frown at his teasing, quickly trying to regain ground. It's not their style to remain so vulnerable for so long, even if the flush in their face stays for a few extra beats after the fact. When he pulls back, they lessen their hold in his hand, wondering if they're supposed to let go now - sure, they held hands for a long time back at that festival, but they're pretty sure that was a result of them not wanting him to be able to escape. They guess it is a bit weird to keep doing this, but he also doesn't seem to be letting go... ]
Rewards?
[ They repeat back, slightly distracted by their thinking. Oh. That's right. His card had said he was going to steal things from them... they'd forgotten about it in the midst of all this. Is it— that play on words he's used before? That "a heart to steal" thing. It can't be something that silly and abstract, can it? ]
I don't know what you're talking about.... that, and the "ma chérie" thing. [ They'd always assumed it was just some little slip of their understanding, but when they think about it, he really only says that during moments like these. ] If I'm supposed to understand it, I don't.
[ Sometimes Lupin randomly says words they don't understand; they usually just skip over it because it's not that important, and they don't care that much, considering they have the huge Town Translating Everything They Say magic to blame for the mess up. ]
[ he doesn't seem interested in letting go... a little longer. As standoffish as they might act, this little connection between their hands is proof that what they're actually feeling towards him is different, and he likes that - a little piece of honesty they can't hide with evasive words. On the other hand, Lupin happily explains his own obscure terminology with an impish smile upon their request. ]
"My darling."
[ so, yes, he started calling them that before he told them in plainer words how he felt; he winks at them, then lifts his free hand to poke a finger at their chest. ]
Like I said, I was taking what you took from me. My love, [ he taps his index finger against their blouse before moving it up to touch it to their mouth, ] and my lips. Now we're even.
[ not even the slightest hint of shame from saying these things. He's just proud, really... He walks around them, then, back towards the door and Flavo, tugging them along with him. The sun's getting lower, and he's less confident in his ability to drag them back to their house compared to his ability to romance them. ]
You've been calling me that? Since even at the palace...
[ They certainly make it seem like they are complaining, with the way they cover their face with their free hand out of embarrassment, their voice laced with annoyance. He wasn't joking about feeling this way for some time, which is cool to have proof of (they guess), but he really has some nerve. Rather than let go of his hand like they were starting to think they should, they squeeze it harder in retaliation to both this new knowledge they've uncovered, and the poking - almost like they're scolding him. ]
Ugh, you are so... [ Something. They don't know. But they let up the pressure on his hand only when he starts tugging them towards the door, dragging their hand down their face. ] You made it seem like you were actually going to steal something from the house.
[ yeah, it hurts, but he's laughing - their embarrassment is cute, as ever, and he can't really blame them. That time, he was the one playing dirty; he probably deserves a little bone-squishing for that one.
he is, indeed, so something, and he knows it, too. ]
I stole you out of the house, [ he offers lightly, shooting them an innocent look as his footsteps crunch into the snow outside. ]
[ That little innocent look won’t get him anywhere. In fact, they meet it with a leer, unimpressed as usual by his cheesy antics.
Although it is sort of comforting to return to their usual dynamic, and to go back to acting as they always do together— just with something new established between them. A thought they most certainly will keep to themself. ]
You know that’s not what I meant. [ They tear their eyes away from him, staring at the ground in front of them instead. ] Is it really even “stealing” if you had to ask me to come with you?
Pssh. I'll have you know that I never steal anything that doesn't want to be stolen.
[ there's nuance to his methods, all right!! Or maybe he just refuses to lose even in a stupid little conversation. It's a familiar enough feeling, talking like this, and he enjoys it, too. ]
[ Of course, what he's implying by that is that they wanted him to come do this. Saying that they didn't want him to do all this would contradict most of what has already transpired; they never went out of their way to find a way to stop him, after all. They didn't not want him to do it, is the kind of vibe their thought process has.
They don't seem interested in pursuing that argument any further, knowing it could lead to getting backed into a corner, so they just walk in silence. When they start nearing Flavo, though, they glance at him from the corner of their eye, slipping their hand from his, then returning to looking forward. It feels slightly like leaving this forest behind is like leaving the suspended reality they were in where it was just the two of them, so they become a little more wary of being seen. Mostly because they're still letting everything sink in themself - they don't think they could handle being questioned by anyone else at the moment. It's still a weird custom to them, too.
They sigh a bit, mostly to themself, staying near him while they walk. ]
You're going back to Ruga, aren't you?
[ Or is he planning to walk with them the entire way...? ]
[ yeah, he didn't think they'd let themself walk into that trap... but it was worth a try. He knows he's right, anyway.
He looks back at them when their hand leaves his, perhaps just slightly disappointed, but does nothing, simply sticking it back in his pocket to warm it up. Lupin knows they're probably going to be frugal with physical contact; there's no need to take it personally. Are they having second thoughts, or just being shy? Or maybe it's just uncomfortable for them. They already let him get away with a lot today. At the question, he raises an eyebrow. ]
After I drop you back off, yes. Unless you want to come back with me?
[ if his guess was wrong and they want to stay with him a little longer -- he's certainly not going to object to that. ]
[ Their brow immediately furrows a little more, mostly in genuine confusion. ]
What? No. Why would I do that...
[ It didn't occur to them at all to follow him back to Ruga. They'd thought he might follow them back to their house, even if in their opinion, he's the one that needs to be "dropped off", but other than that, they'd thought most of their interaction was supposed to be over for the day - again, it's not in their rock DNA to even think to ask for more than what's readily offered. Even thinking about his offer briefly, a number of problems arise: firstly, his housemate might be there, so they'd have to come up with a reason for being over, and secondly, going over would mean having to sleep on a low quality couch as opposed to their average quality bed, whenever it gets dark enough. Neither of those things are things that they want, whether or not Lupin is there. ]
I just— didn't know if you were going to follow me all the way back.
[ He doesn't have to, so it's probably because he wants to - even though with each passing minute that it gets darker, it's getting colder out here, probably. They give him a little questioning glance, as if to silently ask if there's a reason why he isn't just taking the economical route and going home from here. ]
"Why would I do that--" [ he snorts, giving them a wry glance. ] All that, and you didn't even think about wanting to spend more time with me? You're terrible. You're gonna break my heart one day.
[ CAIRNGORM!! It's a good thing Lupin is so understanding - and it doesn't hurt that he's still feeling all warm and fuzzy, either. His tone is scolding, but in a playful way; he's not actually upset with them. The question in their eyes is evident, so he continues. ]
I don't want to leave you just yet. That's all. Besides, escorting you back is part of my duty as a gentleman.
Why am I the one being blamed for this? You're the one who said "inviting yourself over is bad manners."
[ They remind him with a huff, turning their face away slightly. It's not that they don't want to be around him, they just didn't think to go with him. In their view, they already got to do a lot with him today - for how selfish they've been described as over the last nine centuries, they're not too greedy when it comes to taking up people's time. They know he's only joking, but they're still going to provide a good reason if he's going to teasingly say they're terrible. ]
I can't go over, anyway. With the sun down, and how I've skipped hibernation twice, I'll get tired pretty soon— Lottie and Phos will think I disappeared if I just go wherever. [ Those two are so dramatic that they'd rather avoid a frantic scene being made of it. ] It's better if we just go back...
[ They deliberately leave that little 'we' in to let him know that they want him to come with them, even if they still think it's stupid that he's escorting them. ]
That was back then. You've got special permission to come see me whenever you want now.
[ he'll be happy to give up some time for them - he finds he has an excess of it here. There's only so many smoke bombs one man can make before he gets sick of it. And there's not much use for a handsome vigilante in a tiny village comprised mostly of upstanding (confused) citizens. ]
But fair enough. Flavo it is. [ a beat. the comment does bring to mind a question... ] Are you going to tell them?
[ he's guessing no... but Lupin feels like it's something he should ask. ]
What would I say to them? Bringing it up out of nowhere is weird. Especially when those two will make a huge deal out of it...
[ They mumble, covering their eyes for a moment. It's embarrassing just thinking about it. There's no way they can just show up and tell their housemates, I decided Lupin is special to me in a more-than-friend way, and he also thinks of me like that, so we're a thing now. There's also the issue of what they're supposed to call Lupin now; they can't call him their partner-partner, because then he might get confused with Phos, but calling him their lover or something like that is too embarrassing. If they can, they'd like to avoid addressing him on his own at all— at least saying they're a pair or a couple isn't as bad...
Suffice to say, this is all still a lot for them to chew on. They don't think they regret it, but for them, personally, they need to keep it to themself for a little while. They're already so tight-lipped about their relationships with others— they barely, if ever, even mention Lupin to those two to begin with. For a few beats, the only sound is the pair's footsteps in the snow, before they move their hand to hold the side of their face, their brow growing more tense. ]
Why do you ask?
[ Does he want them to? Is he going to tell people right away...? It's always easier to let Lupin lead the conversation. ]
[ he just nods, unsurprised by that answer. Cairngorm is so cute when they're embarrassed, though - his eyes linger on them for a few extra moments while they walk together, charmed. It's not as though he's intending to go announce it to the world, either; he has tact, and a bit of discretion is called for when it comes to matters this personal. But unlike Cairngorm, Lupin isn't very conflicted about this, nor is he shy about it, and he has experience, too. Whatever they're comfortable with is what he's going to go with.
he smiles at them gently. ] No reason, really... I just want to know what you're feeling. We can even keep it a secret, if you'd like.
[ this is new for them, and probably kind of scary. He's okay taking it slow. ]
[ When he says that, they turn to look at him as they keep walking, almost searchingly. Being given such open control over where this will go between them is a little strange, as they don't usually think about what it is they want out of something. But if he doesn't given them an indication to what he wants, then there's nothing for them to latch onto to follow or dodge.
What do they want? ]
It doesn't...have to be a secret.
[ They say, looking at the snow in front of them at their feet. No, it doesn't have to be something they want to hide. Maybe there are actually some pros to having it be known...? Of course, they don't imagine anyone else is interested in them in this way, but for Lupin— there is the likely possibility (to them) that there are others who are far less immortal and incompatible as they are. They certainly wouldn't blame him for choosing an easier road to walk, but if this is the one he's going to choose, then they'd rather not compete.
Letting their hand fall back to their side, they glance up from the ground only to make sure they're on the path toward their house. ]
If others find out, they find out. But it's not their business...
[ no worries, Lupin's not leading them off into another cheesy tryst - they are indeed heading back towards Cairngorm's house, though he's taking his time compared to how he'd run off earlier. They're less uncomfortable and fluttery than he'd thought they would be after all this. Maybe he should have let the moment last longer back there... He only regrets it a little. ]
Got it. Your wish is my command.
[ that was about his plan, anyway - although he figures a few people will want to know and find out pretty soon. Cairngorm's right, after all: this isn't anyone's business but theirs. ]
I'm not sure it would last so long, anyway. Those two roommates of yours seem pretty nosy.
[ They're feeling uncomfortable and fluttery on the inside. At least, as much as they'll let themself acknowledge. In the moment, they want things to be normal with him, until they let all this sink in and make sure this isn't some very vivid dream - or worse, that he doesn't actually mean it. It's still hard to believe he can say anything he has with the conviction that he does.
At that, though, they let out a dramatized sigh, closing their eyes momentarily. ]
They are. Both of them...
[ But in different ways. For someone as emotionally reclusive as Cairngorm, it grates on their nerves a considerable amount to have people around them that want to know their business. But that's life. And they're essentially handcuffed to Phos for the rest of their life anyway, so they feel surrendered to that to a degree. ]
But I haven't talked to them about you at all. [ Because it was never relevant. ] Not like you have.
[ They give him a little knowing glance from the corner of their eye. It turns out they were right after all to be suspicious of Minato's weird message a few weeks back. ]
[ he makes a sort of noncommittal "ah" noise at that, shaking his head slowly. Looks like he got caught. Of course, Lupin only gets caught when it doesn't matter whether he lays low or not - he's just feeling slightly apologetic towards Cairngorm for leaking his feelings to other people before them. (Their not talking about him doesn't sting when he's never known them to talk about anyone unless they're complaining.) ]
I like you so much that it started interrupting my daily routine - if I didn't say something, who's to say what might have happened? I could've smudged the ink in my letter or something.
[ it's apparent he doesn't actually regret it very much. ]
... Really, though. Sorry. I know I should have told you, first and foremost, but I wasn't convinced yet that you thought anything special of me.
[ Their eyes widen at his admission - that wasn't what they meant. They just meant that they don't mention Lupin to other people, like they knew he had mentioned them to at least Minato. They'd thought he might've just spoken about them in a very positive way that might earn some suspicion; they didn't think he'd actually blatantly reveal to others that he was feeling this way towards them. As soon as they notice their brief surprise, they dart their eyes back to snow in front of them, scrambling for a response. ]
...Oh. [ Is what comes out, sort of lamely, as they shake their head. ] So that is what Minato meant when he said you only had good things to say about me.
[ Back then, they didn't want to make a huge leap at such a vague sentence, despite how odd it had struck them as. But it feels... really nice to know that he's thought of them so positively for so long. Thinking back to everything that's happened between them, now with the knowledge that this is how he's felt all along, enough so that he told other people, too? They feel lighter, somehow. Their expression becomes sort of clumsy, their hand coming to fidget with the tie at their collar. ]
Well, it's— whatever. I guess you've been serious about this for a while, after all...
[ Like him, they weren't that convinced he thought anything particularly special of them until quite recently, and even then, their belief is always muted by their low self-esteem. ]
[ his brow furrows just slightly - not at Cairngorm, but at Minato, wherever he might be at this moment. What had he been telling them, exactly...? Not that Lupin distrusts him (quite the opposite, hence the reason he actually told him), but he does know Minato has a knack for trying to help out. Yeesh. Well, he can't have said too much, or else Cairngorm would have had a better sense of what's coming. Or maybe panicked and avoided him. It's hard to say.
It doesn't matter now, so it's little more than a fleeting thought. He notices their nervous fidgeting, perceptive as he is, and just hopes that it's because they're embarrassed and not because he's coming on too strong. To get through a thick head like theirs, he doesn't think he has much of a choice... ]
Sort of. Like I said, I didn't know what you were thinking. For all I knew, I was just a weird, fleshy alien in your eyes. [ among various other worries, some of which they've already discussed. he idly kicks some snow as he walks, eyes falling down to his feet. ] It would be a gamble, getting serious. I think I knew that, so I kept putting it off. I couldn't tell you exactly when I started really considering it - considering us, that is.
[ he's thought they were alluring and beautiful since the moment they popped out of that well on the first day, sure - thought certainly in an unorthodox way. When he started falling for them, though -- he can't pinpoint a specific moment. ]
You are a weird alien. What do you think I thought you saw me as? [ They say that much bluntly, scoffing a little. ] You've been considering it long enough to talk to others about it, and to make this weirdly elaborate plan. That's enough for me to know it's been a little while...
[ Which is more than they can say for themself. No matter how attached they already knew they were to him, it never crossed their mind once to talk to him about it. No, they really would have been fine just avoiding him and keeping this all under lock and key - they're both lucky he's so persistent. ]
Not that I would be able to tell when you started thinking about it either. [ They look at his profile, and their expression softens. ] You've been doing things for me that others wouldn't from the start.
[ Their voice is quiet - not out of any fear that someone else will hear, but plainly because they're deciding to say something personal to him, something vulnerable and honest, even if their expression belies any weakness. Their house is coming up in both of their lines of sight, still a bit away, so they feel they should say... something to him, something to reciprocate all the affection and consideration he's easily handing them. ]
[ Persistent, and perceptive enough to guess that they probably felt something different for him, even if they tried their damnedest to stifle it. Lupin doesn't expect them to have answers for him. It just feels nice to be able to finally say these things to them. Most people would probably be embarrassed; he, however, delights in it, in being able to express all these thoughts directly. Cairngorm's house comes up almost too soon - but with any luck, he'll have the time to say everything on his mind in however long they have left together. Once their destination is in sight, his gait slows until it comes to a stop, still distant from their doorstep.
For a brief moment, he meets their eyes and catches that soft look, and he tucks it away into his memory. It can be hard to tell when Cairngorm is being affectionate. But that look and the shift in their voice convinces him well enough. (Wasn't that one of his wishes from the start - to be someone special to them?) ]
I've no intention of stopping that.
[ it's sad that nobody else has treated them how they deserve - but he's glad that means he's the one who can. His eyes are warm, with the heat of a promise just below: he'll keep being the only one to do those things, to make them feel that way. One of his hands slips from his pocket, and he holds it out to them palm-up, expectantly waiting for their own. ]
[ If they're being honest, they're a little surprised when he stops, looking over at him curiously. As stubborn as they act, they are actually a follower at heart, so even when they're convinced this little rendezvous must be coming to an end, they're still willing to let him change the course, even in the last moments. It'd be hard not to, anyway, when he's looking so warmly at them.
However, when he offers them his hand, they're reminded of the first time he'd done this, back at that dance. They'd been genuinely irritated by his antics and wanted out of his proximity as soon as possible. But the Lupin before them now; despite his kindness being a constant, they think of him and feel for him so differently now that it almost feels like he's an entirely different person. Maybe they are too, with how little they hesitate to rest their hand in his compared to that time. ]
...?
[ They choose not to say anything, letting their mildly confused expression do the talking - he must have something in mind that he wants to say or do, but they have no idea what. ]
If I dropped you off right at the door, I couldn't do this, right?
[ his next action is just the same as it had been at the dance, too - he takes their hand and leans down to press a kiss against their knuckles. This time, though, there's no mischievous smile or cocky teasing; his eyes are closed reverently, and the moment lingers a little longer than a simple friendly goodbye should. Because, of course, it's more than that. Reality's setting in now - not that he hadn't been aware before, but really setting in - that he's allowed to do this; he can do more than just think about touching them before chasing the idea away. He can hold them without needing an excuse. If he bends down to kiss them, they'll reach up to kiss him back. That reality. Now he has to let them go, but when tomorrow comes he can come back to them without any curse or town magic opening the path for him.
Lupin's a confident man; he wouldn't have done any of this if he didn't believe it would end as he hoped. But he's still just a man, and a young one. His heart beats faster, happier, and as cool as he tries to keep his expression, there's an excitement in his eyes when he raises them towards Cairngorm again and an eagerness in his smile he can't entirely hide. His other hand covers theirs when he lowers it, holding it gently between his own. ]
I'll come see you again tomorrow. [ despite what he'd said earlier, about disappearing, that's worded like a promise, too, with that same heat - like he'll make it happen no matter what. ] Goodnight. Sweet dreams, Cairngorm.
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That was much better.
[ teasing, but very, very affectionate. He delicately brushes a stray strand of hair behind their ear before at last letting them go, standing up straight again and letting his hand fall to his side. (Naturally, the one interlocked with theirs stays that way - he couldn't escape their grip, and he doesn't want to, anyway.) ]
And with that, my mission's accomplished. [ a grin, playful, a bit more tender than usual. ] Thank you kindly, ma chérie. I think I'll be enjoying my stolen rewards for a while to come.
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Rewards?
[ They repeat back, slightly distracted by their thinking. Oh. That's right. His card had said he was going to steal things from them... they'd forgotten about it in the midst of all this. Is it— that play on words he's used before? That "a heart to steal" thing. It can't be something that silly and abstract, can it? ]
I don't know what you're talking about.... that, and the "ma chérie" thing. [ They'd always assumed it was just some little slip of their understanding, but when they think about it, he really only says that during moments like these. ] If I'm supposed to understand it, I don't.
[ Sometimes Lupin randomly says words they don't understand; they usually just skip over it because it's not that important, and they don't care that much, considering they have the huge Town Translating Everything They Say magic to blame for the mess up. ]
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"My darling."
[ so, yes, he started calling them that before he told them in plainer words how he felt; he winks at them, then lifts his free hand to poke a finger at their chest. ]
Like I said, I was taking what you took from me. My love, [ he taps his index finger against their blouse before moving it up to touch it to their mouth, ] and my lips. Now we're even.
[ not even the slightest hint of shame from saying these things. He's just proud, really... He walks around them, then, back towards the door and Flavo, tugging them along with him. The sun's getting lower, and he's less confident in his ability to drag them back to their house compared to his ability to romance them. ]
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[ They certainly make it seem like they are complaining, with the way they cover their face with their free hand out of embarrassment, their voice laced with annoyance. He wasn't joking about feeling this way for some time, which is cool to have proof of (they guess), but he really has some nerve. Rather than let go of his hand like they were starting to think they should, they squeeze it harder in retaliation to both this new knowledge they've uncovered, and the poking - almost like they're scolding him. ]
Ugh, you are so... [ Something. They don't know. But they let up the pressure on his hand only when he starts tugging them towards the door, dragging their hand down their face. ] You made it seem like you were actually going to steal something from the house.
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[ yeah, it hurts, but he's laughing - their embarrassment is cute, as ever, and he can't really blame them. That time, he was the one playing dirty; he probably deserves a little bone-squishing for that one.
he is, indeed, so something, and he knows it, too. ]
I stole you out of the house, [ he offers lightly, shooting them an innocent look as his footsteps crunch into the snow outside. ]
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Although it is sort of comforting to return to their usual dynamic, and to go back to acting as they always do together— just with something new established between them. A thought they most certainly will keep to themself. ]
You know that’s not what I meant. [ They tear their eyes away from him, staring at the ground in front of them instead. ] Is it really even “stealing” if you had to ask me to come with you?
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Pssh. I'll have you know that I never steal anything that doesn't want to be stolen.
[ there's nuance to his methods, all right!! Or maybe he just refuses to lose even in a stupid little conversation. It's a familiar enough feeling, talking like this, and he enjoys it, too. ]
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[ Of course, what he's implying by that is that they wanted him to come do this. Saying that they didn't want him to do all this would contradict most of what has already transpired; they never went out of their way to find a way to stop him, after all. They didn't not want him to do it, is the kind of vibe their thought process has.
They don't seem interested in pursuing that argument any further, knowing it could lead to getting backed into a corner, so they just walk in silence. When they start nearing Flavo, though, they glance at him from the corner of their eye, slipping their hand from his, then returning to looking forward. It feels slightly like leaving this forest behind is like leaving the suspended reality they were in where it was just the two of them, so they become a little more wary of being seen. Mostly because they're still letting everything sink in themself - they don't think they could handle being questioned by anyone else at the moment. It's still a weird custom to them, too.
They sigh a bit, mostly to themself, staying near him while they walk. ]
You're going back to Ruga, aren't you?
[ Or is he planning to walk with them the entire way...? ]
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He looks back at them when their hand leaves his, perhaps just slightly disappointed, but does nothing, simply sticking it back in his pocket to warm it up. Lupin knows they're probably going to be frugal with physical contact; there's no need to take it personally. Are they having second thoughts, or just being shy? Or maybe it's just uncomfortable for them. They already let him get away with a lot today. At the question, he raises an eyebrow. ]
After I drop you back off, yes. Unless you want to come back with me?
[ if his guess was wrong and they want to stay with him a little longer -- he's certainly not going to object to that. ]
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What? No. Why would I do that...
[ It didn't occur to them at all to follow him back to Ruga. They'd thought he might follow them back to their house, even if in their opinion, he's the one that needs to be "dropped off", but other than that, they'd thought most of their interaction was supposed to be over for the day - again, it's not in their rock DNA to even think to ask for more than what's readily offered. Even thinking about his offer briefly, a number of problems arise: firstly, his housemate might be there, so they'd have to come up with a reason for being over, and secondly, going over would mean having to sleep on a low quality couch as opposed to their average quality bed, whenever it gets dark enough. Neither of those things are things that they want, whether or not Lupin is there. ]
I just— didn't know if you were going to follow me all the way back.
[ He doesn't have to, so it's probably because he wants to - even though with each passing minute that it gets darker, it's getting colder out here, probably. They give him a little questioning glance, as if to silently ask if there's a reason why he isn't just taking the economical route and going home from here. ]
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[ CAIRNGORM!! It's a good thing Lupin is so understanding - and it doesn't hurt that he's still feeling all warm and fuzzy, either. His tone is scolding, but in a playful way; he's not actually upset with them. The question in their eyes is evident, so he continues. ]
I don't want to leave you just yet. That's all. Besides, escorting you back is part of my duty as a gentleman.
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[ They remind him with a huff, turning their face away slightly. It's not that they don't want to be around him, they just didn't think to go with him. In their view, they already got to do a lot with him today - for how selfish they've been described as over the last nine centuries, they're not too greedy when it comes to taking up people's time. They know he's only joking, but they're still going to provide a good reason if he's going to teasingly say they're terrible. ]
I can't go over, anyway. With the sun down, and how I've skipped hibernation twice, I'll get tired pretty soon— Lottie and Phos will think I disappeared if I just go wherever. [ Those two are so dramatic that they'd rather avoid a frantic scene being made of it. ] It's better if we just go back...
[ They deliberately leave that little 'we' in to let him know that they want him to come with them, even if they still think it's stupid that he's escorting them. ]
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That was back then. You've got special permission to come see me whenever you want now.
[ he'll be happy to give up some time for them - he finds he has an excess of it here. There's only so many smoke bombs one man can make before he gets sick of it. And there's not much use for a handsome vigilante in a tiny village comprised mostly of upstanding (confused) citizens. ]
But fair enough. Flavo it is. [ a beat. the comment does bring to mind a question... ] Are you going to tell them?
[ he's guessing no... but Lupin feels like it's something he should ask. ]
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[ They mumble, covering their eyes for a moment. It's embarrassing just thinking about it. There's no way they can just show up and tell their housemates, I decided Lupin is special to me in a more-than-friend way, and he also thinks of me like that, so we're a thing now. There's also the issue of what they're supposed to call Lupin now; they can't call him their partner-partner, because then he might get confused with Phos, but calling him their lover or something like that is too embarrassing. If they can, they'd like to avoid addressing him on his own at all— at least saying they're a pair or a couple isn't as bad...
Suffice to say, this is all still a lot for them to chew on. They don't think they regret it, but for them, personally, they need to keep it to themself for a little while. They're already so tight-lipped about their relationships with others— they barely, if ever, even mention Lupin to those two to begin with. For a few beats, the only sound is the pair's footsteps in the snow, before they move their hand to hold the side of their face, their brow growing more tense. ]
Why do you ask?
[ Does he want them to? Is he going to tell people right away...? It's always easier to let Lupin lead the conversation. ]
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he smiles at them gently. ] No reason, really... I just want to know what you're feeling. We can even keep it a secret, if you'd like.
[ this is new for them, and probably kind of scary. He's okay taking it slow. ]
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What do they want? ]
It doesn't...have to be a secret.
[ They say, looking at the snow in front of them at their feet. No, it doesn't have to be something they want to hide. Maybe there are actually some pros to having it be known...? Of course, they don't imagine anyone else is interested in them in this way, but for Lupin— there is the likely possibility (to them) that there are others who are far less immortal and incompatible as they are. They certainly wouldn't blame him for choosing an easier road to walk, but if this is the one he's going to choose, then they'd rather not compete.
Letting their hand fall back to their side, they glance up from the ground only to make sure they're on the path toward their house. ]
If others find out, they find out. But it's not their business...
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Got it. Your wish is my command.
[ that was about his plan, anyway - although he figures a few people will want to know and find out pretty soon. Cairngorm's right, after all: this isn't anyone's business but theirs. ]
I'm not sure it would last so long, anyway. Those two roommates of yours seem pretty nosy.
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At that, though, they let out a dramatized sigh, closing their eyes momentarily. ]
They are. Both of them...
[ But in different ways. For someone as emotionally reclusive as Cairngorm, it grates on their nerves a considerable amount to have people around them that want to know their business. But that's life. And they're essentially handcuffed to Phos for the rest of their life anyway, so they feel surrendered to that to a degree. ]
But I haven't talked to them about you at all. [ Because it was never relevant. ] Not like you have.
[ They give him a little knowing glance from the corner of their eye. It turns out they were right after all to be suspicious of Minato's weird message a few weeks back. ]
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I like you so much that it started interrupting my daily routine - if I didn't say something, who's to say what might have happened? I could've smudged the ink in my letter or something.
[ it's apparent he doesn't actually regret it very much. ]
... Really, though. Sorry. I know I should have told you, first and foremost, but I wasn't convinced yet that you thought anything special of me.
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...Oh. [ Is what comes out, sort of lamely, as they shake their head. ] So that is what Minato meant when he said you only had good things to say about me.
[ Back then, they didn't want to make a huge leap at such a vague sentence, despite how odd it had struck them as. But it feels... really nice to know that he's thought of them so positively for so long. Thinking back to everything that's happened between them, now with the knowledge that this is how he's felt all along, enough so that he told other people, too? They feel lighter, somehow. Their expression becomes sort of clumsy, their hand coming to fidget with the tie at their collar. ]
Well, it's— whatever. I guess you've been serious about this for a while, after all...
[ Like him, they weren't that convinced he thought anything particularly special of them until quite recently, and even then, their belief is always muted by their low self-esteem. ]
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It doesn't matter now, so it's little more than a fleeting thought. He notices their nervous fidgeting, perceptive as he is, and just hopes that it's because they're embarrassed and not because he's coming on too strong. To get through a thick head like theirs, he doesn't think he has much of a choice... ]
Sort of. Like I said, I didn't know what you were thinking. For all I knew, I was just a weird, fleshy alien in your eyes. [ among various other worries, some of which they've already discussed. he idly kicks some snow as he walks, eyes falling down to his feet. ] It would be a gamble, getting serious. I think I knew that, so I kept putting it off. I couldn't tell you exactly when I started really considering it - considering us, that is.
[ he's thought they were alluring and beautiful since the moment they popped out of that well on the first day, sure - thought certainly in an unorthodox way. When he started falling for them, though -- he can't pinpoint a specific moment. ]
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[ Which is more than they can say for themself. No matter how attached they already knew they were to him, it never crossed their mind once to talk to him about it. No, they really would have been fine just avoiding him and keeping this all under lock and key - they're both lucky he's so persistent. ]
Not that I would be able to tell when you started thinking about it either. [ They look at his profile, and their expression softens. ] You've been doing things for me that others wouldn't from the start.
[ Their voice is quiet - not out of any fear that someone else will hear, but plainly because they're deciding to say something personal to him, something vulnerable and honest, even if their expression belies any weakness. Their house is coming up in both of their lines of sight, still a bit away, so they feel they should say... something to him, something to reciprocate all the affection and consideration he's easily handing them. ]
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For a brief moment, he meets their eyes and catches that soft look, and he tucks it away into his memory. It can be hard to tell when Cairngorm is being affectionate. But that look and the shift in their voice convinces him well enough. (Wasn't that one of his wishes from the start - to be someone special to them?) ]
I've no intention of stopping that.
[ it's sad that nobody else has treated them how they deserve - but he's glad that means he's the one who can. His eyes are warm, with the heat of a promise just below: he'll keep being the only one to do those things, to make them feel that way. One of his hands slips from his pocket, and he holds it out to them palm-up, expectantly waiting for their own. ]
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However, when he offers them his hand, they're reminded of the first time he'd done this, back at that dance. They'd been genuinely irritated by his antics and wanted out of his proximity as soon as possible. But the Lupin before them now; despite his kindness being a constant, they think of him and feel for him so differently now that it almost feels like he's an entirely different person. Maybe they are too, with how little they hesitate to rest their hand in his compared to that time. ]
...?
[ They choose not to say anything, letting their mildly confused expression do the talking - he must have something in mind that he wants to say or do, but they have no idea what. ]
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[ his next action is just the same as it had been at the dance, too - he takes their hand and leans down to press a kiss against their knuckles. This time, though, there's no mischievous smile or cocky teasing; his eyes are closed reverently, and the moment lingers a little longer than a simple friendly goodbye should. Because, of course, it's more than that. Reality's setting in now - not that he hadn't been aware before, but really setting in - that he's allowed to do this; he can do more than just think about touching them before chasing the idea away. He can hold them without needing an excuse. If he bends down to kiss them, they'll reach up to kiss him back. That reality. Now he has to let them go, but when tomorrow comes he can come back to them without any curse or town magic opening the path for him.
Lupin's a confident man; he wouldn't have done any of this if he didn't believe it would end as he hoped. But he's still just a man, and a young one. His heart beats faster, happier, and as cool as he tries to keep his expression, there's an excitement in his eyes when he raises them towards Cairngorm again and an eagerness in his smile he can't entirely hide. His other hand covers theirs when he lowers it, holding it gently between his own. ]
I'll come see you again tomorrow. [ despite what he'd said earlier, about disappearing, that's worded like a promise, too, with that same heat - like he'll make it happen no matter what. ] Goodnight. Sweet dreams, Cairngorm.
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