Affectionate Touches
EDIT: I forgot to mention that this is for AsoBaro Week, tag @asobaroweek and include a read only dash line so this isn’t taking up the entire page. Today’s theme is Glass, Home and Significant Dates. The themes I follow are in the tags. Enjoy!
Ever since starting this relationship, Barok had begun learning how inexperienced he and Kazuma were romantically. Neither of them had ever thought about romance throughout their lives. Both of them had crushes growing up, but nothing came of them. Their relationship was the first one for either of them that went beyond the puppy love of grade school crushes. Most would believe that Barok would be the least affectionate of the two. However, it was the opposite. Barok was the one who enjoyed any and every physical affection, such as hugs, kisses, holding hands, and other displays of affection. Kazuma, on the other hand, felt discomforted by these things. Kazuma loved Barok, but he didn't feel comfortable with hugs or certain types of touch. Fortunately, Barok was sensitive to Kazuma's feelings and would always ask before hugging or touching him in a way that might make him uncomfortable. Kazuma was curled up on the couch, a book in one hand and a cup of tea in the other. The gas lamp created a warm glow on Kazuma's face. Barok couldn't help but admire Kazuma's beauty and grace. Suddenly, he felt the urge to hold Kazuma and kiss him. But as he took a step forward, he hesitated and cleared his throat. Kazuma turned to him, a questioning look in his eyes. "Excuse me," Barok said, avoiding eye contact. "I was wondering, if it's not too much trouble, could I...er...?" Kazuma raised an eyebrow. "Sure, go ahead. But, make it quick." Barok tentatively wrapped his arms around Kazuma's shoulders, savoring the warmth of his lover's close proximity. Kazuma patted his arm with a look of mild discomfort, but allowed the embrace to continue. After a moment, Barok planted a quick kiss on Kazuma's cheek and released him. Kazuma returned to his book, seemingly unperturbed by the gesture. Barok knew that physical affection wasn't Kazuma's forte, but he took heart in the fact that they were still making progress. In their relationship, they didn't need grand displays of love – they valued quiet moments of understanding and respect more than grand displays of affection. One day, Barok relished the opportunity to take Kazuma out to dinner. Barok toyed with the idea of a romantic picnic for just the two of them. With excitement bubbling up within him, he presented the idea to Kazuma that morning. “A picnic?” Kazuma asked once he was offered. “Indeed, I thought it would do us good to venture outdoors and enjoy some quality time together,” Barok replied. “Hm... what sort of nibbles shall we bring then?” “What sort of nibbles do you fancy?” “Well, most picnic-goers tend to opt for sandwiches. We could rustle up a few of those... also some savory bites, perhaps?”
“Splendid idea. I shall also prepare some of your preferred tea,” Barok added with a small smile. “It seems you already have a plan in mind,” Kazuma teased, flashing a flirtatious look. “Perhaps just a rough outline. My true aim is to charm you with my company.” “I concur. I have been yearning for your company lately,” Kazuma admitted, lightly clasping Barok's index finger. It was his subtle way of showing affection. “Likewise. I have felt your absence quite keenly,” Barok confessed, moving to embrace Kazuma before withdrawing awkwardly. “I beg your pardon.” “No need to apologize,” Kazuma reassured him, smiling before proceeding to get ready for their date. Barok felt disheartened by how uncomfortable Kazuma was with physical affection. He knew that expressing love was different for Kazuma, but he yearned to connect with him through touch. Unfortunately, he struggled to find gestures of affection that didn't make Kazuma uneasy. Kissing seemed to be one form of intimacy that Kazuma was at ease with while hugging and holding hands were off-limits. Despite his sadness, Barok remained patient and understanding, hoping that someday Kazuma would feel more comfortable expressing his love in physical ways. Perhaps he was being too demanding. After all, he loved Kazuma for who he was, not just for physical affection. Barok reminded himself that he didn't need a fairytale romance; he just wanted to be around Kazuma and spend time with him. With a deep breath, he headed to the kitchen to make some tea and calm his thoughts. The prospect of a picnic with Kazuma lifted his spirits, and he looked forward to enjoying the day with his beloved. After wrapping up his duties at the Prosecutor's Office, Barok joined Kazuma to prepare for their picnic lunch. Kazuma brewed the tea while Barok made the sandwiches, mindful of avoiding any poultry after the chicken fiasco on their first date. Even now, Barok couldn't resist chuckling at the memory of Kazuma dumping all the chicken into the river, convinced it was poison. It was a humorous reminder of the quirks that made Kazuma so endearing to him, and Barok couldn't help but smile at the memory, though he knew he should have been clearer about the menu. The aroma of Kazuma's tea reached Barok's nose, filling him with anticipation. Kazuma always knew Barok's favorite blend. Looking over at Kazuma, Barok couldn't help but admire his serious expression. Whenever Kazuma worked on something he was passionate about, he threw himself into it with boundless dedication. It was yet another quality that drew Barok to him, among many others. Kazuma glanced back at Barok and let out a soft hum of approval at the sight of the sandwiches he'd made. A warm smile graced Kazuma's lips, then suddenly Barok's cheeks pinkened with self-consciousness. Kazuma chuckled at this reaction, then approached Barok and reached out a hand. Somewhat unsure, Barok accepted Kazuma's hand, feeling the press of a few fingers against his palm. It was an unusual gesture, but somehow endearing. Kazuma let out a contented sigh and smiled at him, and Barok couldn't help but feel his heart skip a beat. “You make quite good sandwiches,” Kazuma said, catching Barok off guard. “Y-Yes... I suppose I do,” Barok replied somewhat lamely. He wasn't sure what else to say. “I'll pop them in the baskets. Wouldn't do to lug everything about on your own.” “I don't mind, really. We haven't got much. Thanks all the same.” “I'm keen on carrying a bit, all the same. You're very much welcome,” Kazuma replied sweetly, then gently withdrew his hand from Barok's. There was something about Kazuma's gestures, the way he offered compliments and help in such a sincere and meaningful way. Barok had grown accustomed to these small acts of kindness, but they still left a lasting impression on him. He couldn't help but wonder about the significance of Kazuma's finger-grasping. Was it a cultural custom he wasn't familiar with? After packing up the food and drinks, they made their way to the park, careful to choose a secluded and quiet spot. Kazuma was quick to grab the basket with the hot tea kettle and step aside to give Barok room to retrieve the other basket. Barok soon realized that Kazuma's back was turned towards the road, protecting him from any dirt or dust kicked up by passing carriages. It was an incredibly thoughtful gesture, one that touched Barok deeply. As they settled down to enjoy their picnic, Barok couldn't help but feel grateful for Kazuma's unwavering kindness and consideration. He knew he was lucky to have someone like him in his life. “Shall we head off?” Barok asked, his voice betraying a hint of fluster. “Yes,” Kazuma replied, deferring to Barok to lead the way. Barok took Kazuma to a quiet spot among the trees. They could only hear the rustling of leaves and whisper of grass. Kazuma spread out a blanket and carefully extracted the tea from the basket, then removed his coat and boots to avoid soiling it. Barok followed suit, eager to make this a pleasant experience. As he unpacked the sandwiches and fruit, he offered Kazuma an apple. The smile that blossomed across Kazuma's face made Barok's heart swell with warmth. "Cheers," Kazuma replied before taking a bite from the apple. "I suppose you don't go on outings like this very often?" "No, I don't really get out much since I've got so few friends and loved ones," Barok poured a cup of piping hot tea for the pair of them. "I reckon Iris would be chuffed to go on a picnic with you." "Ah, perhaps," Barok replied, with a hint of a smile. "Her mother and Klint used to go on outings like these." "Sounds like all of you had a jolly good time." "Aye, we did. I used to love spending time with Klint. At the time, it was just the two of us as I wanted to live near where I was studying to become a Prosecutor." "I can't say I've ever met your folks," Kazuma said. Despite being together for nearly a year, Barok had never mentioned or invited him to meet his parents. "My father and I haven't been on good terms since Klint's death, and my mother passed away three years later," Barok's tone became saddened. "Oh, I'm terribly sorry to hear that. I had no idea." "It's a shame really. Klint's death affected the whole van Zieks family. My old man tried to curse the Asogi Clan, which I didn't agree with, and we haven't spoken since," Barok explained to Kazuma, whose eyes widened before staring at the grass with a look of contemplation. Kazuma finally spoke, "I received a letter after Father's supposed death about the Professor and... what my father did." "That was probably from my father. I'm so sorry," Barok replied, saddened. "It's alright. I did have my suspicions, but I'm glad it wasn't from you." Barok was surprised. Did Kazuma think he was the one who wrote the letter? It made sense, but... "When I suspected your lineage whilst were under my care, I wished to protect your name from being dragged
along with the Professor. Genshin told me he had a son and a student back home, and I didn't want them to suffer for his sins. If push came to shove, I'd rather it be me," Barok revealed before closing his eyes. "And what about Iris?" "I'm not sure. If she never finds out, then at least she won't be dragged into it. But secrets have a way of coming to light," Barok sighed, looking up at the sky. "At least I know my father won't pen such a letter concerning his granddaughter. But, then again, I am dubious he will ever come to know.” “I suppose if he chooses to remain ignorant. I think we're all guilty of it.” "Perhaps," Barok replied, smiling bitterly as he turned his face towards Kazuma. He longed to cup his lover's face but hesitated. "May I?" His hand hovered tentatively over Kazuma's cheek before finally making contact, their lips touching in a chaste kiss. Afterward, they stared at each other momentarily before Kazuma averted his gaze and focused on his tea. He did not seem uncomfortable, but Barok couldn't help but wonder, "Was that too much?" “N-No... it's fine,” Kazuma replied, stuttering. Barok paused momentarily. He was curious and had to ask, "Why do you not find comfort in physical affection?" "It's not that I don't, I..." Kazuma's face flushed red as he spoke. "I suppose it's different where I come from. In Japan, we don't hug or shake hands. We bow. We don't say 'I love you' to our family or lovers. It's not even required to love one's spouse like it is here. We express our love through action more than words. Most of the time, our words require reading the atmosphere instead of saying it bluntly. We consider bluntness rude." "So, it's simply a cultural difference?" Barok inquired, intrigued with the revelation. He had never pondered on it before. "You never hug or hold hands to express love towards another?" "Correct. We get plenty of it when we're kids, so we consider hand-holding something you only do with a child. Hugging can be considered invasive since no one would ever get that close with anyone unless they were... erm... married." "I see," Barok smiled a little. "And what about the fingers?" "Hm?" "You tend to grasp or hold onto my fingers or pinky." "O-Oh... that's..." Kazuma's cheek became dusted pink. "I suppose that's how we hold hands." Barok's cheeks flushed as he extended his fingers towards Kazuma's, now comprehending their significance. He grasped Kazuma's fingertips and gently kissed them, eliciting a flustered reaction from Kazuma. "I wish to stand by your side through all my days," Kazuma breathed. "I feel the same. May I ask, without making you feel uncomfortable, may I hold and touch you?" Barok requested. Kazuma smiled slightly and answered, "In due time. If you grant me some time, I will fulfill your request." "As you wish," Barok replied. Keeping in mind that Kazuma is from a culture where physical displays of affection are uncommon, it will take time for him to become comfortable with Barok's hugs and touches. However, like a blooming flower or growing tree, when he does, it will be a beautiful and powerful thing. Spending time together and cherishing every moment will lead them to that point. Patience and understanding are crucial in this situation. Barok must understand that Kazuma's cultural background will impact his comfort level with physical affection, and give him the necessary time and space. At the same time, Kazuma must also be patient with Barok as he learns to navigate this cultural difference. Expressing love through actions and reading nonverbal cues may not be common in Britain, but Barok is learning and growing in his relationship with Kazuma.
