Cupid

1. Cologne

Angel's Share was eerily quiet after hours. The dim lighting cast soft shadows on the wooden beams and barrels, creating an almost serene atmosphere. Kaeya had come to ask Diluc a question, a somewhat trivial matter, but he figured it would be easier to do so when the bar wasn’t bustling with patrons.

As he approached the entrance, he heard raised voices. Curiosity piqued, Kaeya carefully opened the door and slipped inside, moving silently as he followed the sound of the argument to the back room.

“There’s just no need for it, Ajax!” Diluc's voice was stern and exasperated. “You put on so much cologne that it's overpowering. It distracts me and everyone else around you.”

Ajax's response was equally heated. “That’s ridiculous, Diluc! I don’t put on that much. You’re just sensitive to it. No one else has ever complained!”

Kaeya paused at the doorway, hesitating. He debated whether to interrupt, but the curiosity was too strong. He leaned against the frame, crossing his arms as he watched the scene unfold.

“You’re not listening to me,” Diluc snapped, his frustration evident. “It’s not about whether you like it or not. It’s about considering the people around you. You’re in my bar, Ajax. My space.”

Ajax rolled his eyes. “Oh, please. You act like it’s some kind of crime. It’s just cologne. And if it bothers you so much, maybe it’s not me who needs to change.”

The tension in the room was palpable. Diluc’s face was flushed with anger, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. Ajax, on the other hand, looked defiant, arms crossed over his chest as he stared Diluc down.

Kaeya cleared his throat, trying to break the tension. “Uh, excuse me? What’s going on here?”

Diluc and Ajax both turned to look at him, surprise flashing across their faces. Diluc’s expression quickly shifted to one of annoyance. “Kaeya, what are you doing here?”

“I was just going to ask you something, but it seems like I walked in at a bad time,” Kaeya said, his tone light. He glanced between them, raising an eyebrow. “What’s all this about cologne?”

Diluc huffed, clearly still agitated. “Ajax here seems to think it’s acceptable to bathe in cologne before coming to work. It’s distracting and overwhelming.”

Ajax scoffed. “It’s not that much, and it smells good. Kaeya, back me up here. Do you think I wear too much cologne?”

Kaeya hesitated, caught between his loyalty to Diluc and his friendship with Ajax. He took a deep breath, then gave a small, apologetic smile to Diluc. “Honestly, Diluc, I can’t say I’ve noticed. I don’t think it’s that strong.”

Diluc’s eyes widened in disbelief. “You’ve got to be kidding me,” he muttered. He turned on his heel and stormed towards the stairs that led to his private quarters. “I can’t deal with this right now.”

Ajax watched him go, shaking his head. “Unbelievable,” he muttered. He gave Kaeya a rueful smile. “Sorry you had to see that. I’d better go talk to him.”

Kaeya nodded, feeling a bit awkward. “Yeah, good luck with that.”

As Ajax followed Diluc up the stairs, Kaeya found himself alone in the quiet bar. He wandered over to a stool, deciding to wait for a bit in case Diluc cooled off and came back down. He drummed his fingers on the counter, lost in thought.

After a few minutes, he heard muffled voices from upstairs. He tried to ignore it, focusing on the rows of bottles behind the bar instead. But the voices grew louder, and he couldn’t help but glance up. The sight that greeted him made his eyes widen in surprise.

Diluc and Ajax were standing in the hallway, close together, their argument apparently forgotten. Diluc had his hands on Ajax’s shoulders, his expression intense. Ajax was leaning in, a small smile playing on his lips.

Before Kaeya could process what was happening, Diluc pulled Ajax closer, capturing his lips in a passionate kiss. Ajax responded immediately, wrapping his arms around Diluc’s waist and pulling him even closer.

Kaeya’s mouth dropped open in shock. He quickly looked away, feeling like an intruder on an intimate moment. He stared at the counter, trying to erase the image from his mind. The sounds of their kissing and soft murmurs drifted down the stairs, making it impossible to ignore.

Kaeya shook his head, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Well, that escalated quickly,” he muttered to himself. He stood up, deciding it was best to leave them to it. As he headed for the door, he couldn’t help but chuckle. “Guess I’ll come back another day...those stupid love birds.”

2. Hair

Mondstadt's evening air was crisp and filled with the soft hum of activity. Near the city gates, Diluc and Ajax stood at the far left, engaged in yet another heated argument. Their voices, though not overly loud, carried a certain intensity that drew the attention of a passerby – Huffman, a knight who had long harbored feelings for Diluc.

Huffman lingered by the gate, trying to remain inconspicuous as he watched the scene unfold. His heart ached with jealousy as he watched the two men argue, hoping, perhaps irrationally, that this might be his moment to step in and comfort Diluc.

“You’re being ridiculous, Ajax,” Diluc said, frustration evident in his tone. “My hair is not that nice. It’s unruly and too bright. It’s not something to be admired.”

Ajax crossed his arms, a slight smirk playing on his lips. “Oh, come on, Diluc. Your hair is one of the things I love most about you. It’s unique and beautiful, just like you.”

Diluc’s eyes narrowed. “Don’t patronize me, Ajax. Just because you think it’s nice doesn’t mean it is. You’re just saying that to make me feel better.”

Ajax sighed, running a hand through his own hair in exasperation. “I’m not patronizing you, Diluc. I’m being honest. Why can’t you just accept a compliment?”

“Because it doesn’t feel like a compliment! It feels like you’re teasing me,” Diluc retorted, his voice growing louder. “Lately, all we do is argue. Maybe you’re just tired of me.”

Huffman’s heart pounded in his chest. He took a step forward, his mind racing with thoughts of how he could comfort Diluc, how he could finally express his own feelings. But before he could make a move, Ajax stepped closer to Diluc, his expression softening.

“Diluc, I’m not tired of you. I could never be tired of you,” Ajax said softly, reaching out to gently cup Diluc’s cheek. “I love you, every part of you. Your hair, your stubbornness, your passion. Everything.”

Diluc blinked, taken aback by the sudden change in Ajax’s demeanor. “Then why does it feel like we’re always fighting?” he asked, his voice cracking slightly.

“Because we’re both stubborn idiots,” Ajax replied with a small laugh. “But that doesn’t mean I love you any less. If anything, it makes me love you more.”

Diluc’s resolve seemed to waver. Huffman watched with bated breath, his own emotions a mix of longing and despair. He knew he shouldn’t be watching, but he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the scene in front of him.

Ajax leaned in, his lips brushing against Diluc’s ear. “I love your hair, Diluc,” he whispered, his voice low and filled with affection. “It’s like fire, just like you. And I wouldn’t change a thing about it.”

Diluc shivered at the sensation, his eyes closing briefly. “Ajax…”

Before he could say more, Ajax’s lips trailed down to his neck, pressing soft, sensual kisses along the sensitive skin. Diluc’s breath hitched, his hands gripping Ajax’s arms as he tried to maintain his composure.

Huffman’s face flushed, his jealousy and discomfort growing as he watched Ajax continue to kiss Diluc’s neck, whispering praises and reassurances between each kiss. He knew he should look away, give them their privacy, but he couldn’t move.

“Diluc,” Ajax murmured between kisses, “you’re perfect to me. And I’m sorry if I ever made you feel otherwise. I love you more than words can say.”

Diluc’s eyes opened, filled with a mixture of emotions – frustration, love, vulnerability. He leaned into Ajax’s touch, his anger dissipating as he felt the sincerity in Ajax’s words and actions.

“I love you too, Ajax,” he whispered, his voice barely audible. “I’m just… I’m just scared sometimes.”

Ajax pulled back slightly, looking into Diluc’s eyes with a tender expression. “I know, love. But we’ll get through this. Together.”

They stood there, wrapped in each other’s embrace, the argument forgotten as they shared a moment of deep connection and understanding. Huffman, feeling like an intruder, finally turned away, his heart heavy with unspoken feelings.

3. Injury.

The cathedral was serene, its atmosphere imbued with a quiet reverence that contrasted sharply with the tension between Diluc and Ajax. Barbara worked diligently, carefully cleaning and bandaging the small gash on Ajax’s shoulder. Diluc stood a few paces away, arms crossed, his gaze fixed on Ajax with an intensity that bordered on annoyance.

Ajax, feeling the weight of Diluc’s stare, shifted uncomfortably. “Diluc, could you stop staring at me like that? It’s just a scratch.”

Diluc scoffed, his irritation evident. “You never listen, Ajax. I told you to be more careful. This wouldn’t have happened if you had just—”

“Here we go again,” Ajax interrupted, rolling his eyes. “I told you, it was an accident. There’s no need to make a big deal out of it.”

Barbara, caught in the middle of their brewing argument, closed her eyes briefly and took a deep breath. She continued her work, trying to remain as invisible as possible. She could feel Diluc’s presence growing closer, his frustration palpable.

“An accident that could have been avoided if you just paid attention,” Diluc retorted, his voice low but seething with anger.

Ajax winced slightly as Barbara applied a bandage, but his attention remained on Diluc. “Why do you always have to be so critical? I’m fine, it’s just a scratch. You’re making it out to be something it’s not.”

“It’s not about the scratch, Ajax,” Diluc snapped. “It’s about the fact that you’re reckless. You never think about the consequences.”

Ajax’s eyes flashed with anger. “Oh, and you’re perfect, aren’t you? Never make a mistake, never take a risk. I’m not a child, Diluc. I don’t need you hovering over me every second.”

Barbara finished her task but hesitated to leave immediately. She could feel the heat of their argument intensifying and decided to subtly shift to the side, giving them as much space as possible while still tending to Ajax.

Diluc stepped even closer, his face inches from Ajax’s. “You think I like being like this? I worry because I care about you, damn it. I can’t stand the thought of you getting hurt.”

Ajax’s expression softened momentarily, but his frustration quickly returned. “I get that you care, Diluc, but there’s a difference between caring and suffocating. You need to trust me.”

“I do trust you,” Diluc said, his voice dropping to a whisper. “I just… fuck you’re so frustrating sometimes! You’re important to me, and seeing you hurt, even a little, it drives me crazy.”

Barbara, sensing a shift in the mood, quickly finished her work and excused herself, muttering a hurried, “All done,” before practically fleeing the room. She hoped the two would sort out their differences without her presence.

Five minutes passed, and Barbara stood just outside the room, listening for any signs of continued arguing. When she heard only silence, she decided to return and let Ajax know he was free to go home. She stepped inside and froze, her words catching in her throat.

Diluc was sitting on Ajax’s lap, his arms wrapped around Ajax’s neck as he kissed him with a fervor that left no room for misinterpretation. Ajax’s hands were on Diluc’s waist, pulling him closer as he responded with equal passion. They were lost in each other, the earlier argument forgotten in the heat of the moment.

Barbara quickly backed out of the room, her face flushed. She closed the door as quietly as she could, giving them their privacy. She leaned against the wall outside, taking a deep breath to steady herself. “Well, that escalated quickly,” she murmured, a small smile playing on her lips. It seemed their love was strong enough to weather any storm, including their frequent arguments.

Inside the room, Diluc and Ajax remained entwined, their kiss a blend of apology and reassurance. Diluc pulled back slightly, his breath coming in shallow gasps. “you’re so annoying..”

4. Drinking

The Favonius party was in full swing, laughter and music filling the air. The grandeur of the hall was enhanced by the sparkling decorations and the cheerful atmosphere. Diluc and Ajax were only there because of their titles, both feeling slightly out of place amidst the revelry. Despite this, they had managed to enjoy themselves, at least until Diluc’s overprotective nature reared its head once again.

Ajax stood near the punch bowl, chatting with some knights, when Diluc approached, his expression tense. “Ajax, can we talk?”

Ajax turned, raising an eyebrow. “What is it, Diluc?”

Diluc’s eyes narrowed as he looked at the empty shot glass in Ajax’s hand. “You’re drinking too much. This is supposed to be a formal event.”

Ajax sighed, feeling a headache coming on. “I had one shot, Diluc. Maybe three. I’m not even tipsy.”

Before Diluc could respond, Lisa, who had been standing nearby, chimed in. “He’s right, Diluc. I’ve been with him most of the night. He’s barely had anything to drink.”

Diluc’s annoyance flared. “Did you ask her to back you up, Ajax?”

Ajax’s patience snapped. “For the love of—just shut up, Diluc. You’re making a scene over nothing.”

“Fuck you,” Diluc spat, turning on his heel and storming out of the hall, leaving Ajax standing there, fuming.

Ajax rubbed his temples, the beginnings of a headache forming. He turned to Lisa with a weary smile. “I’m sorry about that, Lisa.”

Lisa waved it off, her expression concerned. “It’s okay, Ajax. I understand. Just go after him and make sure he’s okay. I’ll handle things here.”

Ajax nodded, grateful. “Thanks, Lisa.”

He hurried out of the hall, following Diluc’s trail. Lisa watched him go, worry gnawing at her. After a few moments, she decided to check on them, just to make sure things didn’t escalate further.

Some time had passed and Lisa grew worried. She had heard from Kaeya that they’ve been arguing for..a while. Lisa, having stepped outside to check on them, stopped in her tracks at the sight before her. She blinked, her mouth forming a small ‘o’ of surprise. Diluc was pinned against the wall, Ajax rutting against him, their kisses feverish and intense.

A giggle escaped Lisa’s lips before she could stop it. She quickly turned back towards the party, shaking her head in amusement. “Well, they certainly made up,” she muttered to herself, rejoining the festivities with a knowing smile.

5. “Fight”

Jean paced outside the Dawn Winery, her mind filled with concern. She had heard from Kaeya, Lisa, and even Barbara about the frequent arguments between Diluc and Ajax, and she couldn’t ignore it any longer. She needed to check on her old friend.

When she arrived, Adelinde greeted her with a warm smile, though there was a hint of worry in her eyes. “Master Diluc is in his study, but he’s quite busy at the moment.”

Jean nodded, her resolve firm. “I understand, Adelinde. It will only be a moment. I just need to make sure he’s alright.”

Adelinde hesitated but eventually nodded. “Very well, Lady Jean. His study is upstairs.”

Jean made her way up the stairs, each step increasing her anxiety. As she approached Diluc’s study, she slowed down, hearing noises through the door. Her brow furrowed. It didn’t sound like an argument; it was more like… whimpers? She almost turned back, deciding she might be intruding on something personal, but then she heard a particularly loud yelp.

Her heart raced as she imagined the worst. What if Ajax had lost his temper and hurt Diluc? Jean couldn’t wait any longer. She pushed open the door and rushed inside, ready to break up a fight.

What she saw made her freeze in her tracks, her eyes widening in shock. Diluc was bent over his desk, his face flushed a deep red, and Ajax was behind him, moving in a rhythm that left no room for misinterpretation. Diluc’s hands gripped the edge of the desk, his knuckles white, as he moaned and whimpered with each thrust.

Diluc’s head snapped up at the sound of the door opening. His eyes met Jean’s, and his face turned an even deeper shade of red. “Jean!” he yelled, his voice a mixture of embarrassment and frustration. “Get out!”

Ajax, too, had turned to look, though he didn’t stop his movements. “Jean, this really isn’t what it looks like,” he tried to explain, though it was quite clear what was happening.

Jean’s face turned crimson, and she quickly spun around, her hand over her mouth. “I—I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to— I’ll just— I’ll go!” She stumbled out of the room, closing the door behind her with a shaky hand.

She stood in the hallway, her heart pounding in her chest. She never thought she’d see Diluc in such a compromising position. The image was burned into her mind, and she couldn’t help but feel a mix of embarrassment and awkward amusement.

Inside the study, Diluc buried his face in his hands, groaning in mortification. “I can’t believe she saw that.”

Ajax, still slightly out of breath, chuckled softly, his hands gently rubbing Diluc’s back. “Well, it’s not like we can change what happened. She’ll get over it.”

Diluc lifted his head, glaring at Ajax. “This is all your fault.”

Ajax smirked, leaning in to kiss Diluc’s neck. “You weren’t complaining a minute ago.”

Diluc’s scowl softened, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips. “Just… finish up. Quickly.”

Outside the study, Jean took a few deep breaths, trying to calm herself. She could never show her face at the winery again, not after that. But as she composed herself, she couldn’t help but giggle. Who knew that beneath that stoic exterior, Diluc had such a passionate side?

She made her way back downstairs, where Adelinde was waiting, a curious look on her face. Jean plastered a smile on her face, hoping to avoid any questions. “Thank you, Adelinde. I, uh, spoke to Diluc. He’s fine. I should get going.”

Adelinde nodded, though her eyes held a knowing glint. “Of course, Lady Jean. Have a good evening.”

Jean practically fled the winery, her thoughts a whirlwind. She couldn’t wait to share this with Lisa. Maybe it was just the kind of story they all needed to lighten the mood around their frequent arguments. As she walked away, she couldn’t help but laugh, the sound echoing in the quiet night. Love, she realized, had a way of surprising everyone, even her old friend Diluc.