[Heizou doesn't miss any of it. The dry laugh. The faraway look. The sudden exhaustion in his voice. The way he avoids finishing that first thought. Keep my sister safe. In danger again.
Lyney is a good older brother. Especially in the absence of parents to take proper care of them as children, he's devoted himself entirely to the care of his siblings whatever the cost to himself. That much is painfully obvious to Heizou. Being away from his twin sister of all things must eat him up inside, especially when something clearly happened to her the last time they'd been separated for a certain amount of time. It's not a stretch to believe that experience has left Lyney with a scar that may never go away. It's not even an unusual situation.
Just a terrible one.
Very quietly, Heizou reaches out to press one hand over Lyney's. Just to help with the way he can see the magician's hands shaking ever so slightly, to reassure him that Heizou is listening intently and is there to support him. That it's okay for Lyney to lean on someone else for once. Even if it's just for now.]
That island was... doing something to us. I couldn't tell you how, but it was so easy to jump to the worst conclusions about everyone around us for absolutely no reason. I'm so sorry that that's where it took you.
[He says it as if it hadn't done the same to him. As if Lyney hadn't said things to him that struck that same chord within him and launched them into fighting each other the way they had. Because Heizou is focused on his dear magician first and foremost, because he can see that there's so much going on behind the smoke and mirrors, and that's so much more important to him.]
But it's okay, now... I know how hard it is to believe, but I really do believe it when they tell us that time works differently here than at home. Your sister is safe. And you'll all be together again, I know it.
[His past has definitely left scars, scars that honestly have never properly healed. It was obvious when Wriothesley so casually dangled the safety of his siblings in front of him back in the Fortress of Meropide, and it was obvious on that island. It's a scar that Lyney tries his best to hide under smoke and mirrors, glamour and flamboyance. But just like a magic show, if one were to look carefully from the right angle, the truth behind the illusion would be revealed. All it took was the right amount of external forces to trigger him.]
[It says how far in his mind he is, because when Heizou rests a hand on his Lyney actually blinks in surprise, looking up at the detective as if he forgot he was there. He looks into those emerald eyes with his own quivering gaze, and somehow... he feels he can trust the other's words. He carefully adjusts his grip to hold Heizou's hand more properly in his own.]
I know time works differently here. As strange as it is, I... went back home once. I can't tell you how it happened, or how I ended up back here, but... it was as if no time had passed at all, both when I left and when I returned. In fact, only about a day or two had passed here. So I know that time works much differently here, and I know Lynette is safe. But... on that island, I couldn't convince myself of that.
[Lyney grips Heizou's hand a little tighter, looking away.]
And... I'm sorry as well. I said such horrible things to you... things I believed at the time, but I know aren't true. You're not the horrible person I'd made you out to be. And... mon dieu, I shot at you...
[Heizou's not sure he's ever seen trust like this in someone else's eyes, certainly not directed at him, and for a moment it startles him. Even though he'd asked for it, it's something else to actually see it reflected in Lyney's eyes as they look at one another. It makes something pleasant settle in his bones. Maybe it's just because it's nice to know that he now has someone he can open up to like this. Or maybe it's because they're sitting in a safe space that they've created for themselves with blankets and tea. Either way, Heizou kind of likes it.
What the magician says about the passage of time between here and home is something he carefully files away for later. Because he does find that terribly interesting, and what could that mean about the nature of the rifts and how everyone arrived here-- But that's for another time.
He grips Lyney's hand right back, shaking his head and offering him a reassuring smile.]
It's okay, Lyney. We were both out of our minds on that island. I, for one, am never going back there if I can help it.
[His gaze drops to their interlocked hands, where he finds himself idly playing with Lyney's fingers.] It's... enough for me to know you didn't mean what you said back there. And I want you to know that I would never lie to you, okay?
[One of the reasons he'd wanted to ignore this awkward discussion was because he was worried for what Heizou would say about his actions. How he'd react to the fact that Lyney had called him a liar, accused him of so many things, and shot at him with the intent to kill. It was so unlike Lyney, and yet... he still did it. He'd been so scared of what Heizou would say, that hearing him forgive him has Lyney letting out a small, wet chuckle.]
You really are too kind for your own good... [But there's a small, grateful smile on his lips.] Alright... and even if you did, I wouldn't hold it against you.
[He says it mostly because, in Lyney's world, it's impossible for people to never lie. So he's offering Heizou some leeway; forgiveness for the day Heizou does have to lie to him. But that doesn't mean that he'll think any less of Heizou if he did.]
I don't know what someone like me could have ever done to meet such a person like you.
[Seeing a smile on Lyney's face sends a little wave of relief through Heizou. He smiles right back, even pulls the other's hand up so he can press a light kiss to his fingers.]
I'm really not that kind, my dear magician. I actually feel pretty selfish right now, for asking so much from you.
[He just wants to hold onto Lyney for as long as he can. He likes the warmth he feels when they're together.]
[Lyney has to clear his throat, forcing a small smile on his face despite the flustered blush that's creeping up his neck.]
Then... does that mean... things are okay between us?
[He's not even asking about hooking up, not entirely. He's just... hoping they can stand being together again, even just as friends...acquaintances... whatever it is they have between each other.]
[Heizou smiles softly, planting another kiss to his fingers.]
We're okay. Things are okay.
[He still doesn't know what to call this... whatever this is. It does feel like they've gone a step further than just casual hook up partners. If that makes them friends - real, actual friends - then... that might not be so bad. Right?]
[Heizou's smile is so warm. There's something pleasant and fuzzy in his chest, something that intuition tells him is good, so... he just accepts it. Trusts it in a way he isn't sure he normally would.]
Friends... sounds really good to me~
[It's already so much more than he could've expected. He leans in to brush his lips over Lyney's cheek in a featherlight kiss, and pulls back with a playful wink.]
And of course you're still welcome to come over for a little fun whenever you want~
[It's funny, Lyney isn't usually one to bring people closer than an arm's length away, but the way Heizou smiles, that gentle kiss to his cheek... it feels warm. It feels good, and for the first time in several days, he finally feels relaxed. Relaxed enough to chuckle at that comment.]
Oh, of course, I would never say no to a little fun with you, mon amour. [But then his smile turns a bit sheepish.] Ah... of course, if you'd... like to do other things as well, well...
[Something about knowing Lyney is willing to keep the sex on the table too is a little reassuring. He probably couldnt say why, exactly, but. It doesn't matter all that much.
He does quirk an eyebrow in interest at that suggestion, though. Head tilting ever so slightly. Curious.]
"Other things"~? What did you have in mind, my dear?
[Lyney drags out the letters a bit, trying to keep that playful lilt to his voice. But when he speaks, there's a faint touch of bashfulness that underlies his words.]
I do know there are some lovely eateries to be had along the leviathans, especially in Eltrut. The coffee and tea isn't quite the same as I'm used to in Fontaine, but it's still quite enjoyable. And of course, there's no shortage of entertainment venues here, should you be amenable...
[...is that a shy blush touching his cheeks? Of course not, your eyes are lying.]
[Heizou blinks, eyes widening ever so slightly in surprise. Oh. Oh. Lyney really wants to just... spend more time together. Not just in either of their homes, but- out and about. Eating meals and keeping each other company. It's very normal, isn't it?
But it brings a bit of color up into Heizou's cheeks as well, as he has to bite down the sheepish smile that starts to spread across his face. And as he realizes he's still kind of holding Lyney's hand, he gives his fingers an affectionate little squeeze.]
...I think I'd like that. We should definitely do that some time~
[It’s only after he speaks the idea that he realizes how… intimate it sounds. Sure it would just be spending time together or eating out together, but it would be going beyond their casual little thing they have. A part of him is about to laugh it off and say that it’s fine, they don’t have to if Heizou would prefer to keep things casual.]
[But then the detective smiles the sweetest smile, and Lyney’s heart skips a beat. A sheepish grin forms on his own face, but one that is genuine and happy.]
Ah… great! I’m looking forward to it, mon coeur.
[The word slips out easily, but he can’t help himself. Nor is he in the mood to really take it back right now.]
[He can see how real that grin on Lyney's face is, and it makes the one he's wearing grow as something pleasant flutters in his chest. The more Heizou thinks about it, the more he starts to like the idea. They've always gotten along outside of the bedroom anyway, and being around Lyney makes him feel kind of warm and happy. Isn't that why Heizou wanted to talk this whole thing out in the first place? So he could keep that feeling?
Though... Maybe it does make him a little extra happy to think that maybe Lyney feels the same way.]
Just say when and where, and I'll be there~
[And, as if to seal the deal, Heizou leans forward to press their lips together in a sweet, lingering kiss.]
Why of course! I can think of a few places even now…
[It’s easy to possibly get carried away, but though a part of him wants to jump up and take Heizou to all the little cafes he’s discovered during his stay, he also enjoys the warm comfort of being on Heizou’s couch as well. He squeezes Heizou’s hand back and gets settled into the cushions.]
Though, perhaps… we could spend some time here tonight?
[He doesn’t say it in a suggestive tone, but rather leaves it open for Heizou to decide. Does he want something heated? Or something more relaxed like this? Personally Lyney wouldn’t mind something more calm after their rollercoaster of a discussion, but he would never turn down a night with Heizou if he could afford it.]
[If Lyney wanted to go out somewhere right now, Heizou would eagerly switch gears and go with him. But when he settles more into the couch cushions and squeezes his hand, Heizou can't help but chuckle at the idea of staying in. To be fair, that is kind of what Lyney initially contacted him for, right? Things just... ended up going a little differently.]
You texted me first tonight, didn't you? So we can do whatever you like~
[He does kind of... go ahead and put both of their long forgotten teacups to the side for now. But not without taking his eyes off of Lyney. Obviously there's interest there just from the mention of spending their time together here at home, but his gaze is warm and soft. Something gentle for tonight sounds pretty perfect to him.]
[Lyney lets Heizou put the teacup to the side, since he hasn't really touched it since talking. But seeing Heizou's own warm gaze makes that warm, fuzzy feeling within his chest grow even larger.]
I've missed you too. I just... didn't know how to approach you since that incident.
[He lets out a forlorn, wry chuckle.]
I thought that maybe if we just went back to business as usual, it would be fine, but... well... I'm glad we had this talk.
[With the teacups put away Heizou is quick to snuggle in a little closer, as if he wants to be perfectly in kissing range. Which isn't untrue. But he does also prop an arm up on the back of the couch and lean his head on it, still watching Lyney with a fond chuckle and going back to playing with his fingers in his other hand.]
I almost let you, you know! But it didn't sit right with me to not even try, so...
[He shrugs a shoulder, letting his gaze flit back down to their hands, rubbing his thumb over Lyney's knuckles.] I'm glad, too. This... feels good.
[Not that he can pinpoint why, exactly. Heizou's best guess is that it's just because deep down they're pretty similar creatures. But whatever the reason... It's nice. And he's glad that somehow their circumstances have thrown them together like this.]
[Lyney had gotten used to their physical intimacy over their many nights together, but this seems somehow even more intimate. He scoots in closer too, within kissing distance, but he doesn’t move to close the gap either. Rather, he scoots close in a way to just feel Heizou against him, resting his head against that propped up arm and allowing Heizou to play with his fingers.]
It does, doesn’t it? I’m glad we could work things out.
[And though he does lean in to offer a quick peck to Heizou’s lips, he pulls back enough to just bask in the soft attention. He briefly closes his eyes, and then says quietly,]
Thanks for choosing to stay and work through things.
[A little admission of fear, but the tension in his body melts as he sees it’s a fear that has now been assuaged.]
[He genuinely smiles into that kiss, making a pleased little noise even when Lyney settles back. It's such a tiny thing, especially compared to their many long, heated nights, but somehow that gesture, this gentle closeness, seems so much sweeter and real. It brings back that warm, fluttery feeling in Heizou's chest. The one he's started to associate entirely with Lyney.
And when he notices how much more relaxed Lyney is, now that they've worked everything out, Heizou leans in that tiny bit more until their foreheads are touching.]
Thanks for not running away.
[They're close enough that Heizou can give him a quick, soft kiss of his own.]
[It's funny, really; Lyney is comprised of so many grand gestures, so many elaborate performances, and yet it's the smaller, almost unconscious little acts that provide more into the world of Lyney than anything. The subtle gestures, like how he leans in as well, the way he further relaxes against Heizou, looking like he could sleep peacefully now that they've reconciled. He hums into the kiss, but blinks when Heizou asks him a question.]
[This peek into Lyney's world, however small and subtle, means so much to Heizou. He's used to reading into every gesture a person makes, unconscious or otherwise, but it's amazing to have someone simply open up of their own volition. Especially when it's someone that he finds himself wanting to know so much more about, for really no other reason besides wanting to. Because that in and of itself happens to him so rarely.
It makes Heizou smile softly again, letting their fingers twine together as he closes his eyes. It's his own small show of trust, that he's not going to use his detective skills to watch how Lyney reacts and let that taint the way he interprets his response.]
I already said that you don't have to tell me everything right away. I know there must be a lot that's hard for you to talk about. But can you at least promise... not to lie to me?
[There might be something in his voice that will tell Lyney that this is important to him. Like he's been burned by liars before and he's done everything in his power to avoid that ever since.]
I'd rather you just tell me if there's something you can't talk about than lie for the sake of giving an answer...
[Heizou may not be able to see Lyney's reaction, but there's no doubt he'll still be able to feel it; the slight hitch of Lyney's voice, the way his body tenses, the way his hand, which had begun to rub its thumb against Heizou's, stills. Being asked not to lie... was that even possible for someone like Lyney? Who's life was defined by the many lies he's had to tell, had to weave to keep his family safe? In a way it was a safety, a defence mechanism to keep that which he cared for safe, enabled him to get the information he needed... And isn't all of Fontaine built upon such smoke and mirrors, illusion and lies despite being named the Nation of Justice?]
[Then again, that very same web of lies was what caused tension between himself and the Traveller, even if it was simply lies by omission. The Traveller had been upset with him because of his lies... he'd almost lost a trusted friend because of them. And now, thinking of Heizou turning his back on him, being upset about him lying... Lyney can tell that Heizou has some scars as well. And he did want to get better at letting people in, really. Which is why after a brief pause, he takes a breath and begins to speak.]
I... will try. It's not that I don't trust you, it's just... there's a lot I can't talk about. Be it about my life, or my family...
[His voice sounds wavering, but he pauses to clear his throat. When he speaks again, it's firmer, with more stability.]
But you're... [He hesitates, looking away as he feels heat creep up his neck.] You're someone I don't want to hurt. So... I'll do my best not to lie to you. I'll tell you if I can't talk about something.
[He's trying, he really is. He hopes Heizou can see that.]
[Those tiny movements don't go unnoticed, and the hesitation behind them is a message sent loud and clear. But that, at least, is expected. Heizou may not know every single detail, but he knows that Lyney's life is one shrouded in many levels of secrecy. Which is exactly why that hesitancy to let go of what has probably become something of a defense mechanism is understandable. Admittedly that air of mystery is indeed something that Heizou feels drawn to, as if Lyney is a puzzle he can try to solve. So far every new puzzle piece he discovers has only endeared the magician to him more. It also makes him greedy for more.
And while Heizou hopes that Lyney chooses to make this promise... He'd understand if he can't. That's part of why he shut his eyes; he doesn't want to see Lyney's reaction if he were to say "no." He'd end up reading into it, find himself overanalyzing what it might mean. If it would just be Lyney wanting to keep guarding all his secrets, or a sign that he can't trust Heizou as much as he wants him to. Having that hanging over them would only hurt. Heizou's sure of that.
Except then he hears I will try, and it makes Heizou's eyes flutter open in surprise. I will try. I'll do my best. It's not exactly what he hoped for, but it's already so much. It's enough. It makes Heizou smile, just a little bit, but it's soft and warm and accepting.]
..Thank you. I know I hardly have any right. I'm already asking so much of you... But this means a lot.
[He idly reaches up to brush some hair out of Lyney's eyes, just as a fond gesture, just so he can get a better look at his face. The magician can probably see the way Heizou relaxes now that he has that response, how it's flushed out any remaining tension. How relieved he is to not have to worry about Lyney lying to him.]
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book2thehead
no subject
Date: 29 Apr 2024 22:12 (UTC)Lyney is a good older brother. Especially in the absence of parents to take proper care of them as children, he's devoted himself entirely to the care of his siblings whatever the cost to himself. That much is painfully obvious to Heizou. Being away from his twin sister of all things must eat him up inside, especially when something clearly happened to her the last time they'd been separated for a certain amount of time. It's not a stretch to believe that experience has left Lyney with a scar that may never go away. It's not even an unusual situation.
Just a terrible one.
Very quietly, Heizou reaches out to press one hand over Lyney's. Just to help with the way he can see the magician's hands shaking ever so slightly, to reassure him that Heizou is listening intently and is there to support him. That it's okay for Lyney to lean on someone else for once. Even if it's just for now.]
That island was... doing something to us. I couldn't tell you how, but it was so easy to jump to the worst conclusions about everyone around us for absolutely no reason. I'm so sorry that that's where it took you.
[He says it as if it hadn't done the same to him. As if Lyney hadn't said things to him that struck that same chord within him and launched them into fighting each other the way they had. Because Heizou is focused on his dear magician first and foremost, because he can see that there's so much going on behind the smoke and mirrors, and that's so much more important to him.]
But it's okay, now... I know how hard it is to believe, but I really do believe it when they tell us that time works differently here than at home. Your sister is safe. And you'll all be together again, I know it.
no subject
Date: 30 Apr 2024 03:24 (UTC)[It says how far in his mind he is, because when Heizou rests a hand on his Lyney actually blinks in surprise, looking up at the detective as if he forgot he was there. He looks into those emerald eyes with his own quivering gaze, and somehow... he feels he can trust the other's words. He carefully adjusts his grip to hold Heizou's hand more properly in his own.]
I know time works differently here. As strange as it is, I... went back home once. I can't tell you how it happened, or how I ended up back here, but... it was as if no time had passed at all, both when I left and when I returned. In fact, only about a day or two had passed here. So I know that time works much differently here, and I know Lynette is safe. But... on that island, I couldn't convince myself of that.
[Lyney grips Heizou's hand a little tighter, looking away.]
And... I'm sorry as well. I said such horrible things to you... things I believed at the time, but I know aren't true. You're not the horrible person I'd made you out to be. And... mon dieu, I shot at you...
no subject
Date: 30 Apr 2024 17:31 (UTC)What the magician says about the passage of time between here and home is something he carefully files away for later. Because he does find that terribly interesting, and what could that mean about the nature of the rifts and how everyone arrived here-- But that's for another time.
He grips Lyney's hand right back, shaking his head and offering him a reassuring smile.]
It's okay, Lyney. We were both out of our minds on that island. I, for one, am never going back there if I can help it.
[His gaze drops to their interlocked hands, where he finds himself idly playing with Lyney's fingers.] It's... enough for me to know you didn't mean what you said back there. And I want you to know that I would never lie to you, okay?
no subject
Date: 1 May 2024 03:51 (UTC)You really are too kind for your own good... [But there's a small, grateful smile on his lips.] Alright... and even if you did, I wouldn't hold it against you.
[He says it mostly because, in Lyney's world, it's impossible for people to never lie. So he's offering Heizou some leeway; forgiveness for the day Heizou does have to lie to him. But that doesn't mean that he'll think any less of Heizou if he did.]
I don't know what someone like me could have ever done to meet such a person like you.
no subject
Date: 1 May 2024 12:00 (UTC)I'm really not that kind, my dear magician. I actually feel pretty selfish right now, for asking so much from you.
[He just wants to hold onto Lyney for as long as he can. He likes the warmth he feels when they're together.]
no subject
Date: 4 May 2024 16:40 (UTC)[Lyney has to clear his throat, forcing a small smile on his face despite the flustered blush that's creeping up his neck.]
Then... does that mean... things are okay between us?
[He's not even asking about hooking up, not entirely. He's just... hoping they can stand being together again, even just as friends...acquaintances... whatever it is they have between each other.]
no subject
Date: 4 May 2024 17:16 (UTC)We're okay. Things are okay.
[He still doesn't know what to call this... whatever this is. It does feel like they've gone a step further than just casual hook up partners. If that makes them friends - real, actual friends - then... that might not be so bad. Right?]
...Is it weird to be happy about that?
no subject
Date: 4 May 2024 20:00 (UTC)Thank you... I'm glad.
[A weak laugh bubbles up inside of him, and he can't even hold it in if he tried.]
I don't think so. I'm... I'm glad we could still be... friends.
[Something about that word, though... it makes something flutter inside him. What is that?]
no subject
Date: 4 May 2024 20:30 (UTC)Friends... sounds really good to me~
[It's already so much more than he could've expected. He leans in to brush his lips over Lyney's cheek in a featherlight kiss, and pulls back with a playful wink.]
And of course you're still welcome to come over for a little fun whenever you want~
no subject
Date: 5 May 2024 04:51 (UTC)Oh, of course, I would never say no to a little fun with you, mon amour. [But then his smile turns a bit sheepish.] Ah... of course, if you'd... like to do other things as well, well...
no subject
Date: 5 May 2024 05:34 (UTC)He does quirk an eyebrow in interest at that suggestion, though. Head tilting ever so slightly. Curious.]
"Other things"~? What did you have in mind, my dear?
no subject
Date: 10 May 2024 03:05 (UTC)[Lyney drags out the letters a bit, trying to keep that playful lilt to his voice. But when he speaks, there's a faint touch of bashfulness that underlies his words.]
I do know there are some lovely eateries to be had along the leviathans, especially in Eltrut. The coffee and tea isn't quite the same as I'm used to in Fontaine, but it's still quite enjoyable. And of course, there's no shortage of entertainment venues here, should you be amenable...
[...is that a shy blush touching his cheeks? Of course not, your eyes are lying.]
no subject
Date: 10 May 2024 03:32 (UTC)But it brings a bit of color up into Heizou's cheeks as well, as he has to bite down the sheepish smile that starts to spread across his face. And as he realizes he's still kind of holding Lyney's hand, he gives his fingers an affectionate little squeeze.]
...I think I'd like that. We should definitely do that some time~
no subject
Date: 10 May 2024 15:11 (UTC)[But then the detective smiles the sweetest smile, and Lyney’s heart skips a beat. A sheepish grin forms on his own face, but one that is genuine and happy.]
Ah… great! I’m looking forward to it, mon coeur.
[The word slips out easily, but he can’t help himself. Nor is he in the mood to really take it back right now.]
no subject
Date: 10 May 2024 15:43 (UTC)Though... Maybe it does make him a little extra happy to think that maybe Lyney feels the same way.]
Just say when and where, and I'll be there~
[And, as if to seal the deal, Heizou leans forward to press their lips together in a sweet, lingering kiss.]
no subject
Date: 10 May 2024 21:55 (UTC)[It’s easy to possibly get carried away, but though a part of him wants to jump up and take Heizou to all the little cafes he’s discovered during his stay, he also enjoys the warm comfort of being on Heizou’s couch as well. He squeezes Heizou’s hand back and gets settled into the cushions.]
Though, perhaps… we could spend some time here tonight?
[He doesn’t say it in a suggestive tone, but rather leaves it open for Heizou to decide. Does he want something heated? Or something more relaxed like this? Personally Lyney wouldn’t mind something more calm after their rollercoaster of a discussion, but he would never turn down a night with Heizou if he could afford it.]
no subject
Date: 10 May 2024 22:34 (UTC)You texted me first tonight, didn't you? So we can do whatever you like~
[He does kind of... go ahead and put both of their long forgotten teacups to the side for now. But not without taking his eyes off of Lyney. Obviously there's interest there just from the mention of spending their time together here at home, but his gaze is warm and soft. Something gentle for tonight sounds pretty perfect to him.]
I wasn't lying earlier when I said I missed you.
no subject
Date: 11 May 2024 21:53 (UTC)I've missed you too. I just... didn't know how to approach you since that incident.
[He lets out a forlorn, wry chuckle.]
I thought that maybe if we just went back to business as usual, it would be fine, but... well... I'm glad we had this talk.
no subject
Date: 11 May 2024 22:28 (UTC)I almost let you, you know! But it didn't sit right with me to not even try, so...
[He shrugs a shoulder, letting his gaze flit back down to their hands, rubbing his thumb over Lyney's knuckles.] I'm glad, too. This... feels good.
[Not that he can pinpoint why, exactly. Heizou's best guess is that it's just because deep down they're pretty similar creatures. But whatever the reason... It's nice. And he's glad that somehow their circumstances have thrown them together like this.]
no subject
Date: 15 May 2024 17:39 (UTC)It does, doesn’t it? I’m glad we could work things out.
[And though he does lean in to offer a quick peck to Heizou’s lips, he pulls back enough to just bask in the soft attention. He briefly closes his eyes, and then says quietly,]
Thanks for choosing to stay and work through things.
[A little admission of fear, but the tension in his body melts as he sees it’s a fear that has now been assuaged.]
no subject
Date: 15 May 2024 18:40 (UTC)And when he notices how much more relaxed Lyney is, now that they've worked everything out, Heizou leans in that tiny bit more until their foreheads are touching.]
Thanks for not running away.
[They're close enough that Heizou can give him a quick, soft kiss of his own.]
...Can you promise me something?
no subject
Date: 20 May 2024 22:35 (UTC)Mm? What is it?
no subject
Date: 21 May 2024 00:19 (UTC)It makes Heizou smile softly again, letting their fingers twine together as he closes his eyes. It's his own small show of trust, that he's not going to use his detective skills to watch how Lyney reacts and let that taint the way he interprets his response.]
I already said that you don't have to tell me everything right away. I know there must be a lot that's hard for you to talk about. But can you at least promise... not to lie to me?
[There might be something in his voice that will tell Lyney that this is important to him. Like he's been burned by liars before and he's done everything in his power to avoid that ever since.]
I'd rather you just tell me if there's something you can't talk about than lie for the sake of giving an answer...
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Date: 22 May 2024 06:39 (UTC)[Then again, that very same web of lies was what caused tension between himself and the Traveller, even if it was simply lies by omission. The Traveller had been upset with him because of his lies... he'd almost lost a trusted friend because of them. And now, thinking of Heizou turning his back on him, being upset about him lying... Lyney can tell that Heizou has some scars as well. And he did want to get better at letting people in, really. Which is why after a brief pause, he takes a breath and begins to speak.]
I... will try. It's not that I don't trust you, it's just... there's a lot I can't talk about. Be it about my life, or my family...
[His voice sounds wavering, but he pauses to clear his throat. When he speaks again, it's firmer, with more stability.]
But you're... [He hesitates, looking away as he feels heat creep up his neck.] You're someone I don't want to hurt. So... I'll do my best not to lie to you. I'll tell you if I can't talk about something.
[He's trying, he really is. He hopes Heizou can see that.]
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Date: 23 May 2024 03:38 (UTC)And while Heizou hopes that Lyney chooses to make this promise... He'd understand if he can't. That's part of why he shut his eyes; he doesn't want to see Lyney's reaction if he were to say "no." He'd end up reading into it, find himself overanalyzing what it might mean. If it would just be Lyney wanting to keep guarding all his secrets, or a sign that he can't trust Heizou as much as he wants him to. Having that hanging over them would only hurt. Heizou's sure of that.
Except then he hears I will try, and it makes Heizou's eyes flutter open in surprise. I will try. I'll do my best. It's not exactly what he hoped for, but it's already so much. It's enough. It makes Heizou smile, just a little bit, but it's soft and warm and accepting.]
..Thank you. I know I hardly have any right. I'm already asking so much of you... But this means a lot.
[He idly reaches up to brush some hair out of Lyney's eyes, just as a fond gesture, just so he can get a better look at his face. The magician can probably see the way Heizou relaxes now that he has that response, how it's flushed out any remaining tension. How relieved he is to not have to worry about Lyney lying to him.]
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