#vexiswritinghere

Jabberwok had always been a breath of fresh air. At least, this is what Haru had settled on in his own mind. Even with the various anomalous animals that would trot about the grassy plains or charge or nip or bite or simply just exist- it was peaceful in its own right. The simplicity only seemingly a surface level ideal. In reality, it was time consuming and chaotic and harsh and beautiful. It was beautiful.

A few anomalous cassowaries stamped their feet into the ground, angrily strutting about and letting out their loud screeches- much to Haru’s chagrin. Hands going to cover his ears briefly before watching them stomp away. Their daily routine of angrily nipping disrupted only by the sudden breach of your arrival. Haru’s day disrupted as well. A gentle breath as he would take in the sight of your gentle frame. Heart feeling as if it filled just as time would still itself.

God… you were a beauty.

Of course, even with the slowed nature of it all, Haru was fast. Arms thrown up in the air with enthusiastic greeting. “You made it! And just in time!” The words filled with energy that was matched by his quick and ecstatic tempo. Arms claimed out as if to wildly gesture at a small blanket that had once been neatly set down- now littered with wrinkles.

“It’s a beauty today, ain’t it?” The voice rang out, a lofty grin as Haru would confidently stride over to the blanket that was laid out. He’d plop down, patting the spot next to him- beckoning for you to come over.

With a slightly slower stride, you would find yourself soon sitting beside the Jabberwok Captain. The plush grass underneath allowing some give as you made yourself comfortable. The familiar weight of an arm casually flung around your shoulder as you’d turn to look over at those always crescent shaped eyes. Your own expression filled with brief confusion and a subtle tilt of your head. Haru would extend his other hand, the fabric of his glove gently grazing your cheek.

You found yourself unable to look away, your own hand extending over to gently brush some of his rusty red hair out of the way. His skin warm to the touch as a gentle breath drew from your lips.

The warm glow of the sun hung low in the air- an array of colors washing over the Jabberwok landscape. Oranges and pinks painting the skies above before morphing into more subtle purples and darker blues. Stars would begin to dot above, providing light that the sun had formerly offered. Twinkling as your body naturally would scoot closer to warmth as the night air grew only a little chilly.

There had been no words spoken in all of this. But the silence wasn’t unwelcomed. The two of you had spoken of this day- planned out meticulously. Such plans needed to be made in advance with how busy Haru found himself. But for you? Of course, he’d make the time.

The gloved hand that had been gently caressing you would move to take hold of your chin, turning you to face the ghoul- your heart picking up.

“Are you sure you wannna do this?” He would ask, his tone soft and searching for confirmation that this was something you wanted.

“Yes-“ was all you managed to breathe out, the smile Haru wore melting your heart.

The hand that had held your chin now guiding you in for a kiss, lips pressing to one another. His own only slightly chapped if only from the apparent neglect he put himself through to ensure all the anomalous animals were taken care of. It wasn’t off-putting, though.

Melting into the connection, you found yourself being pulled closer into Haru as his arms would guide you so you now sat atop his lap. The crashing of your lips grew more intense, filled with passion as the breathing between you both would fill the night air.

Soon, there was a shift and you had your back pressed into the wrinkled blanket- wide eyes staring up at Haru, who was towering over you. Even with his eyes closed, you could tell he was studying your every feature and taking in the sight of you beneath him.

Chirping from crickets would sing to the both of you as Haru would begin to undo the buttons of your shirt, pulling it open. Your chest bare and bathed in moonlight. A raspy breath shook its way from the ruddy redhead as both his gloved and ungloved hand would explore the exposed skin. You felt your breath hitch as two fingers would pinch a nipple, giving it a soft tug.

Body lightly twisting underneath as the hands would return to their roaming and exploration. The peeling of clothes was slow and drawn out- playful. Some garments removed with teeth and chuckles shared between the both of you at just how silly the ordeal had been.

Soon, the two of you were both bare, only the stars in the sky a witness between the intimate scenery below them. Limbs entwined and tangled as heavy breathing lifted in the air- kisses bringing you both closer. A few more giggles and breathless gasps before Haru had reached down to let his fingers dip into you, getting a feel for your inner warmth. A shudder running up his spine as the two fingers would slowly begin to pump inside of you- brushing lightly against the inners of your walls. Slow and methodical before they would spread to stretch you.

As the fingers would pull out, Haru would reach down to grasp his already glistening erection before pressing the tip against your prepped hole, holding it there as he let his head rub small circles before inching in. Each inch slow and stretching as a drawn out moan would pour from your lips, eyes screwing shut.

“Open them-“ Haru spoke through low and breathy words. “I want you to keep them open.”

You couldn’t help but to feel your cheeks burn as you’d oblige. Eyes slowly cracking open as you were met with the flushed cheeks of the ghoul above you. His own lips puckered as he gasped and settled himself deep within you- fully submerged. There was a brief pause, Haru wanting you to have a taste of the fullness within you before hips drew back and gave a purposeful thrust back in. Moans filling the night air as the repeated slow and forceful juts would cause your eyes to water and roll back. Hands found themselves busy with feverishly exploring your naked form.

Each time Haru would fully press in, he’d stay seated for a moment, roughly grinding and pressing deep inside of you. Each moan it would illicit from you causing the ruddy-red to shudder out a moan of his own. Hands shaky as nails would softly drag lines along your skin- never enough to break and draw blood. No, he never had intentions of hurting you. And this moment was too sweet to ruin with any accidents.

The passion between you both lasting as long as the ghoul wanted to drag it out- relentless in his drawn out movements. They would build up their pace as Haru felt his stomach squeeze- knowing it wouldn’t last much longer for him. A race home to get you to your edge and spill over. The quickened pace met with soft whines from the both of you as he’d jackhammer away, leaning down to sloppily meet your lips with his own. A thin sheen of sweat building up on your skin and his hair clinging to his forehead with sweat. The world buzzing in your ears, unsure if you were moaning loud or not. You were.

“Haru-“ the name wrenching its way from you as your own gut would squeeze and a warmth pooled around.

Haru knew exactly what that meant. He reached his goal, the thrusts unbearably fast and ragged before coming to a stop. His girth pressed deep inside as his seed would spill inside- remaining pressed in as his hips subtly would grind into you. The motions slowing to a still before he would catch his breath. Your body sprawled out on the blanket, which had become a tangled mess everywhere where there was not direct weight holding it down.

Staring up, you would watch the rise and fall of both your chests. Haru letting out a breathless chuckle followed by a soft groan when he pulled out. Some of the mess you both made spilling out.

“Aht… that won’t do-“ Haru would whisper out- unable to raise his voice any higher as he was quite spent from your intercourse.

“What won’t-?” You didn’t have a chance to finish asking before you were already receiving your answer. The lips you had moistened with your kisses now down below and giving the same passionate attention your mouth received. You couldn’t help but to gasp out, toes curling and legs screwing up as your hands shot down to grab onto the sweaty messy red strands. A light tug as you felt a tongue delve in to clean the mess that had been made.

Your eyes would close, melting once more as you felt yourself coming undone once again. Already sensitive from your last high. Haru, however, was relentless in the attention he’d give you. His tongue slipping in and out with practiced ease. The nights he had dreamt of exploring you with his mouth now finally coming true.

If he could, Haru would have gone another round. And then another. But that would leave you both ragged and unable to walk. The thought making him chuckle against your entrance.

“What..?” You breathed out, your own voice veering into a soft laugh. Haru was just infectious like that.

Pulling back and peering up with his crescent eyes, the ghoul would then move to pepper soft kisses to your inner thighs before murmuring against your skin, “You’re just so beautiful.”

The way he said it- it made your chest warm up. It was clear he meant it. And it made you feel so loved. Easy to believe anything he said. But Haru never struck you as a liar.

“And you’re handsome.” You’d respond back which only caused Haru to chuckle again. It’s not that he doubted your sincerity. It was just so warming to know that you thought he was attractive at all. After all, you were ethereal in your own right.

The night would end with the two of you cuddled against one another- fingers tracing lazy shapes into each other’s bare skin as you’d stare up at the night sky. Talk of constellations and dreams of the future spilling between the two of you until the air became too chilly and a few mosquitos decided to have a small snack of you both. Clothes returning and you’d return to the dorms, Haru going to gently cover your bug bites with anti-itching cream.

‧̍̊·̊‧̥°̩̥˚̩̩̥͙°̩̥‧̥·̊‧̍̊ ♡ °̩̥˚̩̩̥͙°̩̥ ·͙*̩̩͙˚̩̥̩̥*̩̩̥͙·̩̩̥͙*̩̩̥͙˚̩̥̩̥*̩̩͙‧͙ °̩̥˚̩̩̥͙°̩̥ ♡ ‧̍̊·̊‧̥°̩̥˚̩̩̥͙°̩̥‧̥·̊‧̍̊

𝓙𝓲𝓷 𝓚𝓪𝓶𝓾𝓻𝓪𝓲

Hands appeared beside you, the slender fingers carefully pressing onto the keys to complement the melody you were so carefully crafting. The subtly of your duet echoing up through the high-rise ceiling, reverberating throughout the Clementia halls. The two of you made quite the pair on the piano, the melody coming to its end before your eyes met the Frostheim Captain. His gaze icy and unwavering.

A nervous chuckle worked its way from your lips. “I wasn’t expecting any visitors.”

Jin’s gaze piercing through you before his answer, which came out in an assured mumble- what an odd combination, “I didn’t expect you to know how to play.”

Anxiously, you would look back at your fingers. The tips resting gracefully atop the keys. Long slender ones reaching over to now place gently over yours, pressing down as a few notes rang out in response.

“When did you learn how to play?” The question must have caught Jin by surprise because he would let his eyes rest to his hand resting on yours.

“Does it really matter?”

Maybe it didn’t. You asked to try and get to know the ghoul before you just a little more. But he didn’t seem too keen on giving away more information than necessary. Why would it matter, anyways? You wouldn’t exactly be around to remember the details, anyways. Not with the curse transforming you as it was.

“You play nice.” Your words quiet. Topic shifting from your question.

A smirk, albeit small, formed on the male’s lips as his hands pulled from yours, resting in position as he began to play once more. Your fingers going to match the duet. Notes of musical splendor dancing between the two of you and throughout the room and no words shared. There wasn’t a reason for either of you to say much else, enjoying the simplicity in the moment, instead. Let things be as they were. Enjoy what you could while you were able.

𝓡𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓸 𝓢𝓬𝓸𝓻𝓹𝓲𝓾𝓼 𝓛𝓾𝓬𝓬𝓲

You continued to play, the tempo picking up and crescendo building as the climax of the song began to take off. You were fully engrossed in the music you were creating, lost in the melody that carried your thoughts to a world with less worries. A more carefree time- before you had been cursed. Every ounce of feelings poured into each brushing of the keys until the music would lull down and stop.

A soft clap followed by their own build up as you felt your body stiffen up. Turning your head, you were greeted with a gaze that could pierce through your soul.

“I didn’t expect you, of all people, to know how to play. Color me impressed.”

Your posture relaxed slightly. Romeo wasn’t one to give compliments. So it was odd he found himself here, in Clementia, listening as you play. This time, you were acutely aware of the approaching footsteps as Romeo would come closer- now standing behind you.

Fingers brushed along the keys, the melody carrying your melancholy throughout. Gentle. Soft. Sad. The notes each heavy on your heart before the lilting sound came to a natural end. No clapping followed this time. Only silence.

A reminder that Romeo was there when he spoke, “You’re not allowed to give up, BB.”

Ah. There it was.

“Who’s going to be the one to help me keep that BTH in check!? And don’t even suggest Shinjo! He’s almost worse! I can barely keep it together! So you’re not allowed to turn into that thing! Do you understand me!?” The histrionics following as his words echoed throughout the cathedral of Clementia.

You couldn’t find your voice- letting Romeo on his tirade of colorful words before he finally seemed to stop, voice catching in his own throat. His emotions on full display. He always was one to make his displeasures known. But you were surprised he actually cared.

“I understand.” You respond back quietly, turning once again to look back at the Sinostra student. His eyes aching and the threat of tears lingering. So unlike him. And yet- perfectly like him, at the same time. “We still have time.” You reassured him. You reassured yourself.

𝓡𝓲𝓽𝓼𝓾 𝓢𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓳𝓸

The entrance of another was not lost on you, your playing coming to an abrupt halt as your gaze would turn to look over at the approaching figure. Ritsu Shinjo. The last person you had ever expected to see visiting you.

His expression was that always confident gaze- unwavering in the assuredness of his entire being. You had grown fond of this aspect of Ritsu. If you had any doubts, they were quashed when you saw how sure of any outcome Ritsu was. Never faltering. It had given you your own strength to pursue breaking your curse. Even now, with the end nearing, you still found yourself feeling hopeful with how sure he was.

“You play well. As expected of my partner.” The words of praise reaching you. And you couldn’t help but to smile at them.

“It’s just a small hobby. Nothing to boast of-“ you tried to remain humble.

To which Ritsu immediately would call you out on, “Why be shy about it? The world should know just how great you are!” He definitely seemed confused on the matter. Why wouldn’t you want everyone to know?

But the thought was banished when your hand gently pat the seat next to you. “Do you play, Ritsu?”

The paralegal would, with poised posture, sit beside you as you had requested. Hands covering over the keys before giving that trademark grin of his, “I do.”

And then he’d press down, an elegant melody following. One you barely recognized. But the strokes were simple and easy enough to follow along so you’d let him take the lead.

The two of you would play together, your trepidation of each note clear while the radiant confidence from Ritsu would guide you along. Eventually, the song would reach its conclusion and, ever so gently, you felt a brief touch to your hand. The ghoul having brushed his fingers softly to the top of your hands before retracting. As if he could only interact momentarily. And- for a second- you thought you saw a hint of melancholy in his eyes. Brief. But it was there.

Perhaps Ritsu wasn’t as confident in the outcome as you had been hoping he’d be.

𝓣𝓪𝓲𝓰𝓪 𝓗𝓸𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓫𝓪𝓶𝓲

“The fuck is this?” A familiar voice spoke out, your hands pausing and head whipping around. Surely, you were just as confused as Taiga was. After all, what was he doing here? Of all the people to walk in on you- it had to be him.

“Taiga, what are you-?” Before you could continue asking, the ghoul would lazily plop down beside you on the bench. His eyes landing on the keys. For a moment, you thought that the two of you would have a moment. His own hand hovering over as if ready to press down. Did Taiga know how to play…?

This thought was quickly banished when the loud mashing of notes caused your ears to ring and eyes to squint. The abrupt noises ending as quickly as they had started and wild eyes meeting yours.

“How’d you make it sound so good?” Another mash of keys as if to emphasize his question. A bit of a smile tugging at your lips in response.

Fingers going to delicately take their place before softly pressing down. Once. Twice. Then you’d speak, “You press gently. Slow.”

Taiga observed for a moment before he’d go to place a finger on the key, pressing down as the string would vibrate to create a softer sound than before. A few soft taps. And then he’d stop, watching your hands.

“Show me how you made music.”

You would oblige, going to begin a softer melody. Taiga watching and observing. He would never remember how to play. But he wanted to remember how you played. So he would etch the melody you presented into his mind as best as he could.

𝓑𝓸𝓷𝓾𝓼

𝓗𝓪𝓻𝓾 𝓢𝓪𝓰𝓪𝓻𝓪

You had been practicing for hours, it seemed. The instrument firm in your hands as fingers plucked at strings. Thankful you lived alone in Clementia. Not because of shame but it made practice less distracting. The twinge of strings resounding throughout as your banjo played its bop. You had been engrossed in what you were doing- the gasp that followed shocking you as your eyes widened to meet equally (and surprisingly widened) eyes. Ones you had never seen before. Though you looked away quickly- afraid to make contact for long. Your cheeks burning.

“You know how to play banjo!?” The words excited as they left the ghoul in question.

“Y-yes.” You stammered.

Haru would give a toothy grin. In true Sims fashion, he would produce his own banjo from his pocket. And he would begin to play. Your nervous demeanor melting as you’d soon join in. And the both of you joyously playing the banjo together in Clementia halls.

.・✫・゜・。. .・✫・゜・。. .・✫

ஓ๑♡๑ஓ

“What are you up to, lazy bones?”

Your thumb brushes the screen to hit send, flipping back against the plushness of your bed. Eyes falling up to the ceiling with a dramatic sigh wrenching out from you. In truth, you had been incredibly bored the last few days. And the fact that no one had seemed to go out of their way to interact with you had driven you up a wall. Truly maddening.

A ding from your phone and your eyes fell to the screen. Oh. He messaged back quickly. A bit of the boredom now leaving your eyes as you excitedly read the words across your screen.

“Just about to take Bonnie for a ride. Wanna come with?”

A moment to collect yourself. You didn’t want to come across as too eager to hang out. That would be totally lame on your part. So you let a few minutes pass by- not long enough for your texting partner to up and leave. But enough to make you not seem as desperate for attention.

“Rly? That would b rad.” Send.

Apparently Sho didn’t seem to care if he seemed eager. His message back prompt enough.

“Meet me at the garage.”

Sitting abruptly from your bed, you’d go to check yourself in the mirror. After all, you didn’t want to look like a total slob. Your inspection passing before throwing on a Jean jacket and mussing your own hair so it didn’t look too flat. And then prompt and quick footsteps from your room down the creaky wooden steps. Through the halls of the cathedral’s chapel- stained glass shining from the light outside. And then out the door. The air cool, inwardly glad you grabbed the jacket. Being on Bonnie would only make things chillier.

Vagastrom wasn’t terribly far from where you stayed. Not as far as Jabberwock- which felt as if it were on the outskirts of the Academy. Or Obscuary, which was hidden behind that gloomy forest. Or Sinostra, an oasis in the middle of an aired desert. Your brisk pace slowing to a more meandering one as you quickly shot a text to Sho.

“Omw. Just passing the main hall.”

Another quick response, “Take ur time.”

At this, you found your pace quickening. Sure, Sho said to take your time but- how could you possibly keep him waiting any longer? Your legs carrying you all the way to Vagastrom through the car park and then to the garage. The familiar scent of gas and oil hitting your nostrils, scrunching up briefly from the assault of scents.

Eyes would peer around the room, suddenly your nerves hitting you as your legs feel like jello. You were too fast, it seemed. Sho wasn’t ready yet. He wasn’t here. Your emotions causing you to briefly deflate.

A hand on your shoulder, nearly jumping from your skin in surprise. “Didn’t think you’d sprint to get here.” The words teasing. Your expression going from surprise to mild- albeit playful- annoyance.

“Sprint? Hardly.” The words leaving in mock frustration before you could no longer hold back your giggles.

“I’m just teasing.” Sho responded back, hand falling from your shoulder to now rest by his side. The other holding a bag. “I just fed Bonnie so we’re good to go.” His stride long before stopping in front of the familiar bike. A hand patting the cold exterior. “She’s eager to go.”

That said, the Vagastrom ghoul would mount said bike, throwing a helmet on and motioning for you to do the same. You had grabbed one of the spare helmets, securing it nicely before getting onto the bike and wrapping your arms around the firm waist of your riding companion.

Not much was spoken as Sho would hit the gas and speed you both from the garage. The wind whipping at your jean jacket and helmet. Your adventure taking you around campus in speeds you normally don’t get to travel. And just a further out until you had reached what was seemingly a field. Sho parking Bonnie and slipping off. His hands offering to help you to your own feet. Then a gentle pat to his bike.

The spot you had arrived to was unfamiliar to you. Having never been to this part of campus.

“Where… are we?” You asked tentatively, your hands shoving into your pockets as Sho seemed too busy about the bike before grabbing the bag he initially had.

“Darkwick Academy.” He answered.

You rolled your eyes.

“Where, in Darkwick Academy?” You prompted further, hoping to not get another half-assed answer.

“Just a bit away from Mortkranken.”

Oh. You weren’t sure why you had expected a different answer. But you wouldn’t dwell on it. Instead, you would look at the rolling fields of green. Breeze gentle as your hands moved up to remove the helmet. Hair messy but not in a way that was flattering like before. This earned a laugh from Sho as he would reach over to brush fingers through your hair to help tame it.

“So-“ you spoke, playfully swatting the hand away when your hair was a bit more manageable, “What are we doing here?”

“Hmm? It’s not obvious?” The Vagastrom silverette tilted his head in confusion. As if you had asked the most oblivious question in the world. “We’re gonna eat.” He hoisted up the bag. “Made some bourbon chicken.”

You gave him a slow blink before a laugh escaped from you. “Alright. Sure.” Going with the flow as you’d follow Sho from Bonnie to the grass. No real fancy set up as you two sat down and watched the clouds float on by.

The food, in of itself, was delicious. But that was hardly a surprise. Sho was an excellent cook. The way the sauce on the chicken soaked into the meat- the tenderness of it all. Then there was the rice and black beans- perfectly seasoned. The warmth it brought your belly and the fullness it gave you.

Casual conversations filled the air as you both discussed your time at Darkwick, hopes and aspirations for the future- and just generally shooting the shit. Laughed filling the air before the blue sky began to morph into orange and pink hues. Then purples and finally darkened as stars began to fill the sky. Neither of you had realized just how much time has passed in your conversation- unbroken in your shared time together.

The air had started to grow chilly and you found yourself unconsciously scooting closer towards Sho. A large arm wrapping around your shoulder and tugging you close. Head now resting on his own shoulder. Both of your eyes up at the night sky.

Maybe it was because Darkwick was on an anomalous island. Normally the light pollution caused the sky to look dreary. Lightened. But… here…? The full galaxy felt like it was on display tonight. Splatters of far distant lights scattered on the sky. The surrounding sound now a low hum of crickets.

“You know-“ you began.

“I know.” Sho responded. Whatever you had to say, he was aware of it. A squeezed side hug. “You don’t have to say it. I know.”

You rolled your eyes. “You have no idea what I was even gonna say.” A laugh but you didn’t seem like you were actually annoyed.

“Hmm… let me guess-“ his words veering into teasing again. “You’ve fallen so madly in love with me.”

Your cheeks dusted pink.

“Bingo.”

“W-well!” You began to stammer out, “I wouldn’t say it like that!”

“Then how would you say it?”

“Just that you’ve become like…. super important to me. That’s all.”

“That’s all?”

“Yeah.”

Alan had never been the romantic sort. In fact, dating wasn’t something that he had really even considered being on the table for him. Much too preoccupied with fixing up anomalous cars and his duties as Captain. But here he was, fumbling with his phone in his large hands, unsure of what words he could really say to confess what was on his mind.

Words were hard, after all.

‘I need to talk to you’

No.

‘I want to twll you something’

Deleted.

‘Come talk to ne’

He couldn’t send that.

Eventually, he settled with, ‘Meet me at fhe garag2’.

The message sent and there was no going back now. It came through with ease to you, unable but to stare a bit confused at the message.

It was unlike Alan to request your presence unless it was something important. So you replied with a simple, ‘Is everything okay?’ in hopes to get a little more information.

‘Yes’

Okay….

‘I willl see you art 3.’

Well…. You didn’t really get any further answers as to what it was Alan wanted. So, with a light sigh, you focused on your remaining classes for the day. Not that you had many left. Only two and both were in subjects you performed rather well in.

The classes, as you had predicted, slipped by quickly. Rushing out the door and to the Vagastrom territory. Even though Alan had said everything was okay, you still couldn’t help but to feel a bit uneasy. A lump settling deep within your stomach as the lot with cars came into view.

Your steps hastened and soon you found yourself in the garage you had grown familiar with. The various whirls and scrapes of tools one you had grown used to hearing. Oil, gas, and other fumes thick in the air. Groups of rowdy students either talking loudly to one another or eying you as if you were prey. Shrinking in on yourself, you stepped further inside and nervously would look around for the Vagastrom Captain.

“What’re ya doin’ here?” One of the particularly larger students asked, practically looming over you. If you were ice, you would have melted right there on the spot. “Lost?”

“N-no-“ the words sputtered from your lips, shrinking in further as another of the students approached with a booming laugh. You felt as if you had walked into a den of lions ready to read you apart. No matter how often you came to the garage, it was still a frightening experience without any familiar faces.

“Bet they’re lookin’ for Cap!” The student who greeted you first spoke up.

“Ohhhh right- right!” The laughing guy added on with a knowing grin as the two exchanged a look. “I’ll go get ‘em.” And with that, he turned to walk inside, leaving you with the menacingly tall student from before.

“Cap’s been talkin’ ‘bout you nonstop.” He finally spoke up. Your cheeks a bit rosy before confusion took over.

“What…?” You asked, meekness seeping in.

“Oh. Yeah. Said he wanted to tell you-“ before he could finish, a large hand came down on his shoulder and gave it a squeeze. “Aahaaaa- Cap, I was just tellin’ your friend that you were talkin’ ‘bout ‘em.”

Steely eyes would look you once over- expression stoic. Voice matching, “Let’s go.” His hand removed from his fellow student before going to walk off, hands returning to his sides.

You would glance at the student once more before going to follow Alan, who was walking out to the car lot you had just come from. Each step Alan took you’d have to match with two of your own- the ghoul making note of and slowing his own pace down. Your confusion washing over you as you weren’t sure where exactly the large ghoul was going.

“Alan-“ you spoke up, almost breathless.

No response, but Alan would slow his pace down further. A more reasonable one that you could match.

“Where are we going?”

No response, still. You found yourself growing flustered with the lack of answers, your foot stomping into the ground briefly and the words boomed from your chest before you could really even stop them, “Alan! Tell me where we’re going!”

Stopping completely in his tracks, Alan would turn to face you. Expression unreadable until he gave an apologetic gaze.

“Sorry.” A long pause. “I wanted to show you my favorite spot on campus.”

You found yourself blinking in surprise at this. And then an embarrassed chuckle escaped.

“You should have just started with that-“ the words pressing out through awkward and nervous laughing.

Alan was quiet, again. Steely eyes watching you briefly as if to contemplate what to say next. You could tell he was putting careful consideration into his words, eyes dropping down to the ground in thought before raising up to meet your own, again.

“Sorry.” Another simplistic response. “I wanted to surprise you.”

At this, you couldn’t help but to soften your gaze, a smile tugging at your lips and chest warming from within. There was just something endearing about the way Alan spoke. Simple and to the point. Even if he glossed over the details. It was direct yet soft at the same time.

“It’ll still be a surprise when we get there.” You responded with your own gentle voice, wanting to remove any discouragement that may have followed the Vagastrom Captain. It seemed to work as his normally neutral face formed a small smile followed by a nod of understanding.

Alan began walking, again. This time, starting slow so you could keep up. The walk to the destination silent. A comfortable one that the two of you shared in. Winding through a path that went out just past the Jabberwock grounds and then a little further out until you reached the edge of the island.

The sandy surface a surprise as you’d briefly glance over to the ghoul. He would walk along the shore before speaking up, “Usually, I prefer the woods.”

This information a surprise to you. Alan rarely spoke of his own interests. He was a quiet man who simply acted rather than explain. A charm about that. But- here he was now- telling you about his own preferences.

“So what do you like about this place?” Your words quiet- as if trying to maintain the gentleness of the conversation.

“The waves.”

You must have given Alan an odd look because he soon launched into an explanation.

“No one comes here so you can listen to them.”

Ah… so he found it peaceful out here. Briefly, you wondered if Alan was the type of person who enjoyed fishing. But that thought was brushed off as he would meander off a little ways. Following behind until he stopped at a log. A hand gently patting the spot beside him. You’d join him, getting situated as silence settle between you both.

Remaining like this, the two of you would enjoy the simplicity of one another’s company. No words really needed to be spoken, the sea waves being all the noise either of you needed.

For the first time, since coming to Darkwick, you found some inner peace. Quiet. Complacency.

“I like you.” The words sudden, tearing you from your trance of the ocean. Your head turning slowly to look at Alan.

“What…?” Had you heard him correctly?

“I like you.” Repeated. Voice raised only subtly. Your eyes carefully examining that neutral expression. Was…. this a joke….?

No.

Alan wasn’t the type to tease you like that.

Your heart was on its way to thump out of your chest. Cheeks burning as you opened your mouth to speak only letting out a soft gasp in surprise.

“I- like you too.” You managed to stammer out.

Alan’s face softened at this. Hesitating as he seemed unsure of what to say. So he simply returned to silence.

“Alan-“ his name soft from your lips, “you make me feel safe.” A brevity of silence. “You’re patient and kind. Gentle. You put others before yourself. And you’re safe. I never feel like I’m in danger when I’m with you.”

“You should-“

“But I don’t.”

More silence. Alan’s body rigid as his gaze returned to the gentle waves lapping upon the shore.

You decide to inch closer. Legs brushing against one another as you look up at the tall ghoul. He didn’t pull away. And so you took that as a sign, your arms reaching up and around his shoulders- neck- lightly pulling him down so your foreheads could press against one another.

“I like you, Alan.” Reiterated with more confidence than before. “You should like you, too.”

The quiet made you unsure if you had said something wrong. Then strong arms would wrap around you, tugging you in close and pulling you into his chest. A hand running along your back gently before you relaxed into the touch and closed your eyes. The embrace warm as the sea spray cooled you both down from a sudden large crash. Pulling back from the chill it sent up your spine, you began to laugh.

It was now Alan’s turn to look confused. Brows furrowed deeply with observation. No questions came, though. Instead, a large hand moving to push some strands of damp hair from your face- thumb brushing lightly along your brow bone. Your eyes meeting his and your hand reaching up to bring his large one down to caress your cheek.

Fingers brushed gently against your skin as you both would stare into each other’s eyes. The Vagastrom Captain dipping down briefly and your heart skipped a beat. His voice a low rumble, “Can I kiss you?”

A nervous swallow. A quiet, “Yes.” And then you felt his lips upon your own.

Maybe you had been holding your breath the entire time because when he parted, you would shakily exhale.

“Are you okay?” The question serious.

“Yes-“ a pause “kiss me again.”

And another soft press of the lips as your arms wrapped around his large frame. His own hands pulling you in closer to his chest. This one lasting longer, lashes batting up at Alan- his gaze soft. Making you feel as if you’d melt on the spot.

The breeze would pick up, a small chill running along and causing goosebumps to form along your skin. Clouds gathering above and threatening to burst. Eyes drifted towards the sky. This island always did have temperamental weather.

“We should go back.” Alan spoke, verbalizing what the two of you had been thinking.

You give a light nod and stand. A brief moment of hesitation before you decided to take Alan’s hand in your own, working your fingers together. As you did, rain began to sprinkle down. Slow, at first, before building up into a downpour. The two of you rushing to find shelter from the sudden storm.

Looking at Alan, you couldn’t help but to laugh again. His own hair stuck against his skin, reminding you of a wet cat. Your free hand reaching up to push his bangs from his eyes, admiring him for a brief moment. He’d only pull back to remove his jacket, the leather drenched as he’d turn from you to shake it out- an attempt to keep any more water from hitting you. Then, Alan would turn back around, going to place the jacket over your shoulders.

“I don’t have an umbrella.” The words apologetic. And you smiled up at him.

“That’s okay.”

With the jacket snug on your shoulders, you would huddle closer to the Vagastrom Captain, soaking in his warmth briefly. The rain didn’t look like it would let up any time soon, the ground soaked. A deep breath.

“Want to run through it?” You asked, glancing up at the ghoul.

He would blink in response- a bit perplexed by the suggestion made.

“I don’t think it’ll stop raining in the near future.” You reiterated lightly.

Alan thought it over for a moment. An idea striking him.

“I’ll carry you.”

Your head tilted slightly.

“Hold the jacket over us and I will carry you back. We might stay dry, then.”

“O-okay.” The word stammered out slightly and, without hesitation, Alan would scoop you up and place you on his back. You would lift the jacket to cover your heads- a bit of your back exposed to the chilly air. Strong hands holding your thighs in place as the trek back to Vagastrom would begin.

The world wet and damp as the garage came into view, Alan would only set you down once the both of you had made it inside. The concrete at your feet now wet with footprints. Another shiver ran up along your spine, Alan noticing this.

“Stay here.” Short and to the point as he would go to turn and walk inside. Alan would return shortly after, a fuzzy and warmed towel in hand. He’d wrap it around you, burritoing you and making sure you would be dry and cozy.

Death clung to him, like a thick lacquer. Hardened and discoloring. The scent carrying thick in the air. But nothing stuck out quite like the look in his eyes. Hollowed out. Dark rings circled under his eyes in deep shades of purple. As if sleep evaded him.

In truth, it did.

But was that necessarily a problem?

Rui was sure if he did manage to find sleep that his nights would be endless hauntings of those around him withering away. A single touch only bringing upon decay. And those sunken faces with their own hollowed eyes would stare back. Deep into the abyss that was his life. The thought quickly shaking away.

No. He wouldn’t entertain this chain of thoughts right now.

The cool air whisking the reaper cursed male back into reality. Better to not lose focus. That’s how accidents happen…

One gloved hand carefully lifted the wilted bud. Seems this one wasn’t quite cut out for this world. A finger lightly caressing the lifeless petal. Once colored and bright now ready to crumple to the touch. A pair of small sheers raised, clipping the dead bud from the tree. Perhaps this was symbolic…

For the tree to flourish, you had to rid it of decay. Maybe.. this was what his life would be now? These thoughts only briefly entertained. Focus.

Focus…

A soft exhale followed.

Onto the next tree. A repeated process.

Focused.

Once any rot was clipped, Rui would silently go to collect the falls from off the ground, placing them into a bag to burn for later. Maybe roast something in the fire. After all, it was the simple things.

Little moments in time that you learn to appreciate.

Thoughts often ran through Rui’s mind. Racing and never ending. No real way for a brief respite. So it was the little things that kept him sane.

Pruning and weeding the garden.

Soil clinging to his gloves.

Smell of the earth. Damp. Soft.

A bed of flowers.

Wiping down dust from the railings and bannisters. Polishing the floors.

Shoes and socks strewn about. Carefully collected and placed in their rightful homes.

Tidied and organized.

Clothes washed and hung out to dry. Silken sheets belonging to each member of the house. All occupied only by their isolated bodies.

The smell of detergent.

A crackling fire, warm in its embrace.

The glow filling the hall.

Burning wooden scent throughout the home.

Cozy endless nights.

The bar and its occupants. Spilling out their woes. A place of echoes with a gentle smile, accepting these worries and responding with his own kind words.

Bonding moments.

Thoughts.

Thoughts like these.

And the occupants, lively in their own ways, made Rui feel less alone. There was Ed, with his endless mountain of laundry and disheveled appearance. The room he often would remain within a mess in its own right. His overly flirtatious nature almost rivaled Rui’s. Though, Rui would always say he had a bit more class than Ed. Still, there was also a hidden wisdom in every spoken word. Like a puzzle with pieces hidden away with purpose. Ready to reveal the full picture but only when Ed was ready to show his hand.

Then there was Lyca. Also messy. Not as messy as Ed, though. His own was contained to his room and only applied to how it smelled. Appearance wise, it was fine. Aside from a few strewn about clothes and an unmade bed. Not the worse. His energy certainly was infectious. Loud and boisterous. Bumbling in excitement and always asking a million questions or saying something utterly baffling and blunt. But pure in his demeanor.

Still - lively was good. It kept Rui busy.

The work in the garden went by seamlessly as these thoughts circled about. Returning and repeating. Until every weed was pulled and anything that withered was pruned. A bag filled soon enough and brought over to where the reaper cursed male often burned the remnants away.

Maybe tonight- he’d have a bonfire.

Inviting Ed and Lyca to join him. They might decline but- the offer always stood. And even if he wound up alone, Rui would simply treat himself. A little self-care went a long way.

Onto the next task.

Always the next task.

Stepping inside, pale ruby eyes would scan the foyer, shoes slipping off and exchanging into the comfortable indoor slippers Rui was fond of. A trail of socks greeting him. Hadn’t he just picked these up…?

A sigh worked its way out from the reaper cursed male as he would go to grab a basket for collection. Bending over, each sock was gathered before Rui made his way first to Lyca’s room. A gentle knock.

“Lyca, are you in there?” No answer. He must be out. Good for him. It was important for him to try and integrate with others. A hand reaching to turn the knob before entering. A few clothes scattered about soon placed into the basket with the socks. The blanket Lyca adored remaining on his bed. Well- Rui would just pretend to not notice it.

Then, off to Ed’s room. A place Rui was intimately familiar with. If only because he cleaned it frequently enough. Every inch having been scrubbed at some point. Meticulous. Only for it to wind up dirty quicker than he could really keep up with it.

A soft knock. Greeted with, “Come in.” And a stream of coughs.

Stepping inside, the first thing Rui would spot was the utter chaos of the room. Clothes strewn about. Mystery liquid cups everywhere. Ugh. He didn’t even want to think of what was inside those. Moonlight basking over and creating a pale glow throughout the room. On the bed, stark naked, was his captain. Legs entangled in the sheet. Hair mussed and eyes glazed over as they would stare fixedly into the small screen held in his hands.

“When’s the last time you cleaned in here?” Exhaustion evident in Rui’s tone.

“Mmm…. Rui, you know I’m no good at cleaning.”

This was only met with a quiet grumble of, “then what are you good at?”

The Vice-Captain was carefully collecting dirty clothes, ignoring the fact that the vampire was completely nude- save for small sections wrapped in his blanket. His movements brisk but careful. Only glancing over towards Ed when he heard shifting on the bed. The vampire now sitting upright, crimson red eyes meeting the pale ruby ones and lips slipping into a devious smirk. Knowing.

“I’m wounded, Rui.” Here he goes…. “I’m good at plenty of things.”

An eye roll was earned and the basket set aside. Attention moving to the mystery cups. Carefully picking them up with disgust as the reaper would toss them into a nearby bin.

Ed continued, “Rui, don’t you want to know what I’m good at?”

“Being a menace?” More trash thrown away. A rustling noise before hands had greedily grabbed onto the belt loops of his pants. Tugging back.

Panic would wash over the reaper, body attempting to pull forward. The grip only tugging him back again.

“You like when I’m a menace-“ the words a dangerous whisper against his ear. A shudder rippled along Rui’s spine. Words failing him and Ed took this as a sign to continue. “If you didn’t, you wouldn’t have such dirty little thoughts about me.”

This was enough for the Vice-Captain to finally pull away. Cheeks red and an exasperated look plastered on Rui’s face. Ed only let out a breathy chuckle. “They’re brief but they’re there. And you always get so flustered when they cross that pretty little mind of yours.”

Still, Rui remained silent. How could he deny such a thing when it was true?

“Even now, you’re thinking about how you’d want me to bend you over my dresser and fuck you relentlessly.” The hands would reach back over, settling on Rui’s hips. Thumbing against the fabric. “We both know that I’m the closest you’ll ever get to experience with touch again.”

The fingers pressing in and tracing small circles, lips ghosting a mere hair away from skin. Murmuring lightly, a lack of breath to warm Rui as he continued to speak, “I could make all of your little fantasies come true.”

Rui could feel the hairs on his neck rise from the tension alone. Legs feeling somehow both solid and liquid at once. Rigid but jello-like. Swallowing the lump building up in his throat.

“You needn’t say it out loud. Your thoughts can remain inside. I just need you to say yes.”

Mouth hung open, the hands had returned back to his hips, gripped and holding him steady. A pounding noise filling Rui’s ears from his racing heart. He couldn’t hear the word leave his lips but Ed could. And it was all he needed. A “yes-“ unsteady as it was.

The hands would go to guide and pull Rui over to the bed, pushing him down with careful movements. A tug of the blanket he was pushed atop, which caused the reaper to roll over before his back was steadied on the mattress. Blanket tossed over and a weight now pleasantly pressed against his hips.

The blanket, itself, was plush and inviting. Rui practically melting in the velveteen and silken fabrics. Enveloping and engulfing him. The weight creating friction of hips brushing against one another with the barrier between them. This drew out a long and languid gasp from the reaper cursed male. The air under the blanket growing hotter. His own hips arching up to meet the rubbing sensation as a tent began to form.

Fuck… was he really this needy…?

The thought caused Rui’s cheeks to flush.

“You poor thing-“ Ed’s voice cooed, only dampened by the clothe, “You’ve been so neglected. Let me take care of this for you.”

A more pinpointed pressure applied. Ed palming the growing erection. Rui panting a bit more with need. The hand continued its blanketed petting, a chuckle escaping the vampire before retracting. This earned a soft whine from the covered reaper- hips moving up against his will to try and earn the friction back.

Ed breathed out a chuckle, keeping his hand away before shifting on top of the blankets once more. Legs straddled the mound beneath him. “If we do too much now, it’ll be over too soon-“ the words a singsong tease.

Rui would pant softly, feeling overly hot under the blanket. A light wiggle underneath and Ed would begin the grinding motion again. This drew out light moans from the reaper cursed male, hands clutching onto the sheets and hips raised up. Soft panting replacing the moans as the vampire stilled his movements again- Rui trying to create the friction by grinding up.

Firm hands moved to press the blond’s hips back down into the mattress, holding him still. “Aht.. aht…” Ed would muse out. Rui’s response soft whimpers. “What did I say about ending things too soon?” Another low whine escaped his Vice-Captain and a breathless chuckle escaped the vampire.

A few more panting gasps and Rui would feel the hands roaming against the blanket, feeling him through the fabric and squeezing. The attention and pressure working out more gasps as they’d build up and release into moans. Ed took this as a sign, this time not stopping his motions. A goal to now get the reaper desperately calling his name. An attempt to increase friction as the bulge beneath the blanket remained firm. The grinding now becoming relentless.

“Ed-“ the goal was reached quickly as the name drew out in a shaky breath.

“Mm?” A subtle prompting for more wispy words.

“Please-“

“Please what?” More urging to get Rui to say more.

“Do more-“ the words shuddered and staggered.

Deciding to spare Rui, Ed wouldn’t press on what ‘more’ had meant. Hips brushing against covered hips. It was the most they could do, now. But it seemed to do the trick. The under of the blanket hot from heavy breathing and bodies pressed and rolling along. The friction only increasing with Rui throwing his head back, the blanket shifting slightly and causing blond tufts of hair to pop out. Then pale ruby eyes- half lidded would reveal themselves and peer up. Soft gasps morphing into moans and crimson eyes observing the housemate below.

Rui’s expression scrunching as the Vice-Captain found himself nearing his climax. A tinge of embarrassment that this was what he was getting off to.

The continued grinding seemed to do the trick. At least, for now. Ed was sure they’d have plenty of moments like this in the future. After all, they only scratched the surface and his reaper companion certainly was needy. A final whimpered moan worked its way out and a sticky mess filled Rui’s boxers- cheeks flushed with shame. A few more little grinds against the fabric before Ed pulled off.

“We’ll try more together, later.” A knowing grin. “We have to get you to last longer, first.” A hand motioning at the door. “I’ll let you go so you can clean yourself up. I know you’re fond of keeping yourself tidy.”

Everything about this made Rui want to seep away into nothingness. Face going back under the blanket until he was ready to slip out and retreat to the bathroom to clean up. An amalgamation of emotions forming in his chest. Feelings he would have to explore later.