#diluc when

diluc ragnvindr. [1:02 pm]

"i think you're being unreasonable, darling."

there were many words you could use to describe yourself. unreasonable was most certainly not one of them. to be quite honest, you felt that your capability for reason was much higher than what diluc wanted to give you credit for.

"you've been overworking," you countered, eyes narrow with a frustration that matched his own. "and don't try to deny it, mister."

while you were certain that you wouldn't win this battle, there was no doubt that you would try. because it was the truth: diluc was a candle burning from both ends, and if he wasn't careful, he would subsequently burn out.

there hadn't been a night this week that he hadn't all but stumbled into the manor, feet dragging wearily and brilliant red locks falling from his ponytail. hell, you were concerned that the bags beneath his eyes were planning to make the space their permanent residence. diluc was exhausted, and frankly, hearing him deny it so vehemently was beginning to get under your skin.

your partner's sigh was quiet as he lifted his head from his hands. you had "ambushed" him in his office - there was no chance of him avoiding your chiding if you caught him there. now, you stood across from where he sat, your arms folded over your chest.

"i'm not denying anything, my love," he replied, voice low with fatigue and something akin to guilt. "but i simply cannot-"

"you can," you interrupted. "and you should. just one night at home, please?"

the last word came out a bit softer than the rest; whether it was truly intentional or not, you weren't sure. all you knew was that your 'please' both softened his gaze and brow. one corner of his mouth turned upwards, and this time, his sigh was almost like an admission.

"one night?"

"one night," you confirmed, closing the distance between you with an urgency that brought color to diluc's cheeks: your unabashed affections always caught him off-guard. as you moved to his side, you reveled in the way he instinctively leaned into you, his temple pressing against your arm. if there was someone who deserved your touch, it was always him.

when you ran a hand through his loose hair, he hummed, the pleased sound like music to your ears. but after a moment, he reached to grab your wrist, pulling your hand to his lips. his kiss lingered, and you could feel the warmth of his breath against your skin.

"soon, my love, i'll be here with you every night. i promise."

of all the promises you'd been given, his was the one you could always believe. you simply nodded, tugging lightly in hopes to urge him to bed. and when he wrapped his arms around you underneath the plush comforter, you had half a mind to ask just how long soon meant.

but that would be a conversation for the morning.