SOMEONE MAKES YOU UNCOMFORTABLE

taking a bubble bath with them

completely sfw headcanons of taking a bubble bath with some genshin characters after having a bad day :)

pairings: childe, scaramouche, xiao with gender neutral reader

cautions: mentions of scars in childe's part, but other than that just comfort fluff :) can be seen as normal or modern au, but it is mentioned that xiao is an adeptus

childe ×

childe doesn't mind bubble baths, it's just that he's busy all the time and not at home because of his job. however, if he hears that you're having a bad day and in need of a self-care bubble bath, he's there at your service right away!

... but it's chaotic, that's for sure

there's no promise that you won't get soap in your eyes, and the water may or may not splash out of the bath tub, but childe's laughter and cheeriness makes up for everything

he tries anything he can to bring a smile to your face: giving himself a beard with soapy bubbles (and pouting when you say he can't grown one of his own), jokingly shaking the water droplets out of his hair everywhere to make you yelp in surprise, and taking some bubbles and putting it on the tip of your nose to call you rudolph. (yk, the red nose reindeer)

he will keep talking if you want something to fill in the silence. his whole goal is to distract you from any negativity and cheer you up in the meantime anyway (he also attempts to make animals shapes out of bubbles to impress you, but ends up failing every time)

if you let him, childe would love to hold your elbows in the palms of his hands to see if you have any scars on your arms. if you don't have any, he ends up just putting bubbles all over your arms and drawing random things out of them. if you do have scars on your arms, however, he kisses them all even if there are bubbles on them and just gives you a sweet goofy smile afterwards :'(

throws bubbles onto the bathroom wall to be a nuisance and to make you lightly scold him; seeing you sad makes him sad too, so just hearing you raise your voice a little bit in a not serious scold makes him happy! (even if that sounds weird in a way)

childe definitely steps out of the bathtub first to hold out your towel and give you big warm hug when you step into his embrace

he also demands offers to dry your hair and/or just yourself in general, and rushes to prepare all your clothes for you if it wasn't prepared already

but he also says that you guys don't have to dry yourselves off and just get a cold the next day... then he'll get to skip work and stay at home with you all day, right?

his joke earns him a playful flick to the forehead (well, if you can reach it)

all in all, the best person to take a bubble bath with after having a stressful day cause you really can't help the smile that makes its way to your face :)

scaramouche ×

are... are you sure you want to take a bubble bath with him??

scara doesn't take baths often (usually showers), but if he does take a bath it's probably a result of a stressful day with a need of a relaxful evening.

however... if he hears that you had a bad day? he goes straight home after work to get hot water running in the bath tub. (he tries to tell you to take a bath with him but in the end it just sounds like he's ordering you to hop in and wash up, you still get the message though TT)

he'll glare if he sees water go over the edge of the tub and onto the floor, but he doesn't do anything about it. he just sits in your presence and secretly hopes that will cheer you up (spoiler: it kinda does, soft scaramouche is really sweet)

he doesn't talk much, but the things he says are all related to asking if you're okay with things. for example, things like "is the water warm enough?" or "do you want to sit here instead?" or even "...do you want me to massage your shoulders?"

if you tease him for suddenly being nice, he just closes his mouth and glares at the wall for the rest of the bath time duration (but really, he wants to help you but doesn't really know how)

scaramouche just sits there and lets you do what you please, like decorating him in bubbles or attempting to shape his wet hair. it definitely cheers you up to see him not angry and just calm for once, his eyes closed from relaxing into your touch.

if he's really, really touched starved, he'll just reach over without a word and pull you into a back hug and hide his face in your hair (even if it's wet)

like childe, he steps out of the bath tub before you do. unlike childe, he grabs the towel without hesitation and (a bit roughly) picks you up and wraps you in it. he just claims that it wouldn't be good if you have gotten a cold, so you "better dry up or else"

xiao ×

in all honesty, he doesn't know how to cheer you up. xiao might be an adeptus that has lived around mortals for a long time, but you're the only mortal that makes confusing feelings thrive throughout his body fast and make his heart pound even faster.

he can be clueless, but he's definitely at least smart. he figures something relaxing should be able to bring your mood up, right? (he does doubt himself though)

the moment you return to your shared residence with xiao, you can hear the water running and him calling your name from the bathroom (how ironic since you're the one usually calling his name..)

he doesn't actually sit in the bath with you; instead, he sits outside the tub with your back facing to him from inside it. he also doesn't talk much with the belief that you'll need your own time and silence to heal.

xiao offers to wash your hair and when he does, he takes his time and tends to you with gentle hands. the feeling of his fingers carding through your hair and lightly massaging your scalp unsurprisingly soothes all your nerves, and it's difficult not to just melt into his touch. if the water gets too cold, he quickly drains it and replaces it with warmer water/any water at the temperature you want (but obviously he doesn't do it too much and wastes water)

not only that, he puts his hand against your forehead so none of the soap gets in your eyes while he soaks your hair with water to get out all the bubbles. xiao also silently offers to massage your shoulders by doing it once and looking over your shoulder to check your reaction, and his calloused hands still feel so relaxing rolling out all the tension off your back and neck

kisses the back of your head before getting up to get you a big towel to dry you off :( <3

he one-hundred percent asks if you're feeling better afterwards, even if there is hesitance evident in his voice. xiao hasn't been intimate with anyone else, especially mortals, so he wants to know if he can be a partner of yours that you're comfortable and happy with. he might need that a lot of reassurance from you that he is, but all in all also someone who will drop everything to go over to you and cheer you up :)

tags: @noirkkat, @tiny-aroace, @yunaholics, @abyssheart, @starglitterz, @blisschi, @heavensbeloved, @mystic-helena, @xmellows, @rim0na, @glazelilyy, @yanbub, @urujiako, @zaultar, @seerie, @blossomiich, @mikachuchu, @bluexiao, @akinokisetsu, @childe-support, @ariesreii, @storytravelled, @aelatus, @give-xiao-almond-tofu, @afchicken, @almondoufu, @chichikoi

WHEN YOU CALL THEM PRETTY BOY.

izuku, denki, bakugou, shoto x gn!reader

cw. cursing, mentions of eating, not proof-read note. this is to make up for the half-assed drabble i wrote at 6am yesterday <3

—— IZUKU was sitting by his table, studying for the upcoming exams with his back to you. he’d been at this for quite some time and you were getting worried, he’d been studying for more than six hours straight, with no bathroom-breaks, snack-breaks, or just break breaks, even. you were on your fifth or so break, and wanted him to come lay down for a bit. sure, studying is important, so is passing your exams but doing it for a very long time was not at all good for you.

standing up from his bed, you go behind him and wrap your arms around his shoulders, leaning your head on him, “hey pretty boy, take a break for a bit.”

“huh?” he stammers, placing his hands on your arms.

“a break. let’s take one.” you repeat.

“i meant the nickname,” he says, turning a little to see you.

“oh. pretty boy.” you smile at how his cheeks turn red, “you’re my pretty boy ‘zuku.”

“i’m your pretty boy,” izuku mumbles with a shy smile. “okay, let’s take a break.”

—— DENKI loved nicknames. he claims that he’d called you all the nicknames in the book, even the slightly gross ones, he had added with a gag. he was cheesy, but not thatcheesy. so, when he knocks on your door and you open it with a, “oh. hey pretty boy.” he can’t help but almost drop the bags he was carrying. he walks inside and places the bag on your table, turning around with a huge, infectious grin.

“new nickname?”

“wha—” you smile in realization. “yeah. you like it?”

“like it?” he questions in mock exaggeration. bounding up to you with that bright smile of his and wrapping his arms around you, placing his head in the crook of your neck, he mumbles. “i love it.”

“it suits you,” you mutter, hugging him back, running your hands through his blonde locks.

“i’m your pretty boy, right?” he brings up a hand and pokes your cheek. he didn’t look up but you could feel his cheeky smile.

“yeah, you’re my pretty boy.”

—— BAKUGOU lays with his head in your lap, scrolling through his fyp as you lean against the wall and do something on your phone. getting the sudden urge to go and get something to eat, you try to gently push bakugou’s head away and stand up, only to receive a glare from him as he plops his head back down on your lap. “katsuki,” you groan. “come on, get up, i want to go get something to eat.”

“no,” he grumbles. “stay here.”

rolling your eyes, you shake your head. “come on, pretty boy. move.”

“huh?” his shock gives you a few seconds to push his head away (again, gently) and stand up.

“what do you mean, ‘huh?’” you ask, going into the kitchen.

you hear a thud and hurried footsteps behind you.

“what the fuck did you just call me?”

—— SHOTO is the resident pretty boy of class A, and he really deserves the title. so many people call him that, but he just brushes their compliments off because he knew they weren’t really genuine. but when you say it, even if you say if for only one time, he still treasures the moment with his life.

he’d been looking something up on his phone, seated on the couch when you walk into the room, took a seat beside him and asked, “do you wanna go out for a walk, pretty boy?”

and he does a doubletake, his eyes go wide in surprise and he blinks once. twice. thrice, before he replies, “did you just call me…” he trails off, a red dust coating his cheeks.

“pretty boy? yeah?” you tilt your head, placing a hand on his cheek and smiling, “aw, you’re blushing.”

shoto grins softly. “it sounds, nice, when you say it.”

“i’ll call you that more often, then.” you stand up, extending a hand, “so, how about that walk, pretty boy?”

You really didn’t think you could love Shinichiro more than you already did.

None of you both had ever been big fans of love. Not even in an edgy love-isn’t-real way, but love simply didn’t matter that much, nor it was something you both went out looking for in life.

Even after a year and a half of being together, you still couldn’t tell much difference from when you were “just friends”, apart from the kissing.

But whenever you got to catch a glimpse of Shinichiro around his younger brother and his friends, something in you could feel it.

“Oi, Mikey, who even let y’all in here, huh? Shouldn’t you be at school?”, Shin’s voice echoed in the garage, and you giggled, sat on the motorbike he was cleaning.

He wiped his hands with a towel, the cloth now dirty with oil, and he rubbed his forehead with the back of his wrist, eyes fixed on his brother and two of his friends. They looked at you, sweet smiles on their faces, but eyes colored with mischief.

You shrugged when your boyfriend turned to look at you, a playful grin plastered on his features.

“Don’t look at me like that, it wasn’t me!”, you defended yourself, but shoot the kids a wink.

A yelp left your throat when you felt Shin’s hands wrap around your wrists, pulling you to his dirty body, wrapping his arms around your waist and he laughed.

“Leave her alone, pervert”, his younger brother spoke, holding back his laughter as your boyfriend let go of you to give him an offended look.

“Yeah, she’s waaayyy too pretty for you, Shinichiro”, Keisuke said, and you laughed, but were fast to take the dirty cloth from Shin’s hand before he threw it to the kid.

“Baji’s right, we hope you know you could do better, Y/n”, it was a surprise to see Draken join, but it didn’t disappoint, and you laughed again at Shin’s shocked expression.

He walked over to the three kids, messing Mikey and Baji’s hair with his hands, and lightly tapping Draken’s forehead as he clicked his tongue.

The boys laughed as he explained to them how, ‘as literal babies with zero girlfriends in total, they were in no place to comment on his relationship, but he would gladly give them advice if they ever needed it’

The kids rolled their eyes, hiding their blushed cheeks when the older boy pointed out how they were only being little bitches to him because they were jealous because of how beautiful you were, and how they all liked you so much, before giving you a fast goodbye and running out of the garage.

“Those kids, I swear…”, he started speaking as he turned back to you, rolling his eyes with a grin in his lips. He always had that look on his eyes when they were around, like he wanted to make them laugh, to take care of them, “So young and so fucking annoy— mhpm!”.

You cut him off with a kiss, to which he answered by wrapping his arms around your waist, holding you close.

“What was that for, doll..? You’ve got your pretty face all dirty with oil now, dumm—”.

“You’ll be a great dad one day, Shin”, you said, and he closed his mouth, looking at you with gentle eyes and a playful grin, “We’ll be the best parents to ever walk Earth, right?”.

“I promise you we will”.

Enji when toddler reader is playing and makes him do a pretend wedding for her, and he has to walk her down the aisle, and reader is just so happy with a pillow case as her veil, telling Enji that she can't wait to meet her Prince charming and live happily ever after with him. All he can think about is how you're gonna grow up one day and how you're not gonna look to him as your hero, come to him for comfort when you're scared, will never have time for daddy-daughter dates with him. How he's never going to have to check for monsters under the bed again (and drag Dabi from under there). How you're the only child that doesn't hate him but once you're married, you're gonna forget about him too. How he's never going to be your doll that you can do make up on and have tea parties with. How he's never going to see you model clothes that Rei just bought for you. How one day it'll be the last time you ever kiss his cheek before he leaves for work. How he's never going to have his favourite person in the world to share that pint of ice cream with.

It eats him up because he honestly doesn't know how he'll live without you. How can he sleep soundly if he doesn't know for sure that you've had dinner. You know he can't eat if you haven't eaten too. Who will be there to kiss your boo boos if you're going away? Who is going to wake up in the middle of the night because he felt something was off, and he went to your room only to see you crying, frightened because something moved in the dark, but too scared to move? And who is going to light up their hand so that you can use it as a nightlight when he hums a lullaby and puts you back to sleep? Who is going to greet him at the door when he comes home from work, ready with a cup of tea in her hand? Who is he going to sneak all those chocolates and candies to behind Rei's back?

Clearly, he can't let you get married. Besides, no one is and will ever be good enough for you. Certainly not that brash, blonde rat that looks like he is ready to combust any second.

Boyfriend Material

  Ft. J. Kirstein, A.Arlet, L. Ackerman,  E.Yeager, R.Braun, E. Smith

Lemme just preface this by saying I am so excited to start dabbling in other fandoms + writing. I have a silly demon slayer au I’m writing plus Levi 100 followers celebratory fic! So without further ado, enjoy! (Sfw & nsfw h/c about my fave boys! Modern au btw!) ((pps it’s kinda long bare w/me pls))

Keep reading

BNHA | Soft Things They Do For You General HC’s

↳ Characters: Eijiro Kirishima, Shoto Todoroki, Denki Kaminari, Izuku Midoriya, Katsuki Bakugo, Shota Aizawa, Keigo Takami, Dabi, Shigaraki x gn!reader

↳ Warnings: Suggestive Content

↳ a/n: more down to earth than my other quirky hc’s so I hope you guys like this and also I’ve been listening to Careless Whisper all morning unironically PLS

KIRISHIMA

Always puts you before himself.

A real man treats his s.o like gold and Kiri is nothing less than a man. When it’s time to eat he’ll always make your plate first. When he gets invited to go somewhere he’ll always respond with, “I’ll ask y/n what we’re doing that day!” Cutest being when there’s no seats for either of you so he’ll kneel down and let you sit on his knee but sometimes he uses it as an excuse to caress your ass in public. 1000% the ‘I wonder what we’re going to do today’ type.

Keep reading

💋Single Dad Zhongli | A Beautiful Beginning

Warning: None (SFW)

Pairing: Single Dad!Zhongli X Fem!Reader

Mia's notes: wtf...I wrote 8,314 words for something. Like it took me weeks to write 10k words for a project I'm working on and I speed wrote this in 2 days fufufu. Anyways here is the first part of Single Dad Zhongli!! First part...I have to go through this a good 10 more times for the other characters...fuck. Anyways hope you enjoy reading this! Reblogs are appreciated! Love you guys!!

WC: 8.3k

When you get a look at him walking down the street in his turtleneck sweater and blazer, with his hair flowing in a perfect low ponytail, amber eyes practically glowing golden in the sunlight and that dashing smile on his lips, you’d think he was a god who had descended upon the earth to grace everyone with his presence.

He’s the ideal man; well mannered with his gentlemanly gesture, a silky deep voice that had you entrapped in his knowledgable talks of history and the sort, and how can we forget about his tall build and great looks? Really a one in a million kind of man.

Men and women admired how he carried himself during formal events, a wine glass in his hand and a warm smile on his face as he entertained the crowd, even though it wasn’t him hosting, most of the time.

During the day, he’s usually deep into his work, analysing various rock samples and writing down his reports, pushing the thin metal reading glasses up the bridge of his nose without his concentration flickering the slightest. Sometimes his eyes would flicker to the felt framed picture standing on his desk, him with two little kids in his arms, the three of them grinning widely.

When Zhongli is in job mode, stopping him is almost an impossible feat since he’s always so engrossed in the rocks that lay on the table.

His job as a lead geologist, working at the Natural History Museum never felt like a job to him, since his passion was in understanding the mysteries and beauties of Earth. History had always interested him ever since he was a child.

He’d often been invited to various exhibitions with other well-known people, and whenever he opened his mouth to talk of the beauty of the cor lapis or the noctilucous jade, a crowd gathered around him.

His job was well paying, really well paying. He had an apartment in one of the richer parts of town and if anyone ever had the pleasure of being invited to one of the parties he hosted, they’d be in awe of the sleek interiors and various geodes that decorated the rooms.

Everyone loved him for who he was, loved him so much that they’d even offer to pay for his meal if he ever forgot his wallet at home, an event that occurred one too many times. Of course, he would send a gift basket to their homes as a form of thanks.

Out of all the people who loved him, there were two little angels whose love surpassed everyone else’s, and who he loved in equal -possibly greater- amounts. His daughter of 7, Ganyu and his younger son of 3, Xiao.

He tries his best to balance his job and kids, and it shows. He always tried to take out time for his two children, making sure to come home on time to eat dinner with them and tuck them in, reading them their favourite bedtime stories and kissing them goodnight.

If ever he couldn’t make it home due to reasons, his assistant and kind-of babysitter, Aether was always there to take care of the kids. He was practically their elder brother by now, with how often he was with the kids, having known them for over 2 years.

Xiao, his little son, was a very naughty boy. Always throwing a fit and making life harder for Zhongli, and Aether whenever the poor man was left to care for the child. He wants the same book read to him every night, he wants 3 kisses before he sleeps and he must have his dragon stuffed toy or else…

Zhongli made a note to start disciplining Xiao since he was to start going to daycare soon, and he would have to behave well over there. Maybe he needs a little motivation. Something sweet…

To stop Xiao from crying about how the green paint didn’t colour his hair green permanently or how his feet were Missing when he put on his shoes, simply pass him a bowl of sweet almond tofu. In an instant, his sobs would dissipate as he starts stuffing his tiny mouth with the dessert. Zhongli would find it so amusing at times, giggling while wiping the syrup off of Xiao’s little lips.

Ganyu, his elder child, was mature much beyond her age. She loved drawing, loved doodling flowers and deer, like sketches littering her art books. Zhongli was always filled with pride whenever she showcased some of her artworks to his guests, enjoying how they gushed over her skill.

She loved playing with her dolls and dressing them up, saying that when she grows up, she’s going to make pretty dresses for her dolls to wear. She even promised her papa that she would make him a pretty princess gown and Zhongli laughed heartily, patting her head and telling her that he’d be looking forward to that day.

Ganyu was a quiet child and didn’t really like going to school since there were so many kids everywhere. Zhongli was there to comfort her, dropping her off at school and telling her to have a great day. He would also personally ensure that her lunch is packed and her bag has her homework.

First grade went smoothly, she even made a friend, Keqing. Zhongli was happy for her, seeing her open up and enjoy school. On a random day during second grade, she went in all excited, brighter than the sun that morning. But when Zhongli came to pick her up in the afternoon, a little(much) later than usual, his heart broke to see her crying figure curled in the lap of some woman sitting on the stairs at the main gate of the school. A really…pretty woman.

With work and his children, the question of finding love again… never came up.

Well, he did get tricked into going on blind dates, all thanks to his stupid friend Childe. But it just never worked out. All the women he met were peculiar. Some of them very obviously wanted him for his wealth, some of them just wanted to have a good time, and then some who he thought were nice, they just couldn’t handle taking care of children so fresh into the relationship.

Maybe he just wasn’t meant to have a lover again. Well, he did think he needed one nor did he think he could add romantic relations to his tight schedule. He had his sweet angels, he had his work. That was his life.

The desire to find love had long flickered away, all being left was the smoke coming from a dying candle.

But something sparked in him when that pretty woman raised her head and made eye contact with him, her smile so warm and serene.

“Hello. Do you happen to be Ganyu’s father?” You softly smiled at the man as he approached you in long, hurried strides. The school grounds were empty and the sun was almost setting down the horizon. Zhongli was very, very late that day. He gave a quick nod and kneeled in front of you, reaching to touch the shoulders of his quivering daughter.

“Angel? What’s wrong?” He tried prying her off you but all she did was shake her head and dig her nose deeper into your neck, clutching the neckline of your lilac tee in her small fingers. Zhongli was taken aback. His daughter was refusing his embrace?

His eyes searched yours for an answer as you shushed the crying child and patted her hair. “She’s upset that you arrived…later than the other parents. She thought you forgot about her.” Your brows furrow when her crying increases at your words. Zhongli sighed, a small smile appearing on his lips a second later.

He mouthed a thank you while sitting beside you so that his daughter could get a better view of him. “Ganyu, my little angel. I’m sorry for coming late, I promise I’ll buy you some ice cream to make up. Don’t you want to go home now?” He whispered, dropping his head down for him to look into her eyes, something he couldn’t do because of how snuggly she had been wrapped in your arms, face hidden against your skin. When he reached to cradle her red cheeks, Ganyu swatted her father’s hand away and vigorously shook her head against your neck. “No! I don’t want to talk to papa ever again.” She spoke, cries muffled.

Zhongli was at a loss for words. He was really sorry for his mistake and forgetting to tell Aether to pick Ganyu from school. He wanted to express his apology but what was he supposed to do now? He’s never had to encounter a situation when his perfect daughter acted out.

Again he looked at you with a desperate expression, pleading for some help. You gave him a subtle nod and looked back at Ganyu who was huddled up in your lap. You brushed away her falling tears with your thumb before talking to her in a hushed tone. “Ganyu, can you look at Miss Y/N for a moment? Please?” Zhongli felt his heart skip a beat at your honey-like voice, his astonishment increasing further when Ganyu pulled away to look into your eyes, occasionally hiccuping and wiping away her tears with the back of her sleeves.

You looked at her with a gentle understanding gaze, pulling out a handkerchief from your pocket for her to blow her nose. “Are you angry at papa?” You ask her, puffing your cheeks in exaggerated crossness, rousing a little giggle from her.

“Yes…papa forgot about me.” She sniffled, messily wiping her face with the cotton cloth. You tilt your head to the side and look at her questioningly. “But if papa forgot you, then why is he here to pick you up?” Your question made the little girl dart her gaze to Zhongli, who still had an ashamed smile on his face.

“Papa didn’t forget about Ganyu! How could he forget about his sweet little angel!” You make reference of the pet name Zhongli used for her, quickly catching his expression to see for any discomfort. Thankfully all you got in return was a charming smile. You poke Ganyu in her tummy, the ticklish feeling causing her to fall into a fit of laughter.

Seeing his daughter much calmer now, Zhongli tried again to pull her into his arms and this time she let him do so. He picked her from your lap and brought her in his own, hugging her tightly like he had never before, giving her the warmth and fatherly reassurance she needed. “I am so sorry Ganyu. Papa will be careful from next time, promise.” He vowed, giving her a kiss on her forehead.

You couldn’t help but feel your heart melt at the father-daughter bonding the two of them shared. The way he held her like the most precious being in the universe, it made you smile. Feeling the weight of a gaze upon him, Zhongli glanced at you, your eyes meeting and holding contact for a second too long.

“Oh, I am extremely sorry for coming late today. I assure you this is the first and last time this is happening. I hope it wasn’t too much trouble for you to stay and look after her.” Zhongli stood up and bowed slightly, holding Ganyu on his hip. He felt really bad for having put you in a position where you had no choice but to care for his daughter. Being a teacher, you surely had lots of work and other things to do, and he really appreciated you looking after Ganyu in his absence.

You laugh and wave your hands in front of you, brushing off his worry. “That is alright sir. Ganyu is a student of mine, and she’s no less than a daughter to me. Taking care of her is second nature to me.” You walk closer and pinch the girl’s cheeks and give her a wide smile, pulling a similar one from her.

When you took in a breath, the subtle smell of pinewood filled your senses, the smell of Zhongli’s cologne. Your face tipped up to see how close you were standing to the male and to respect his personal space, you took a step back, blushing profoundly. Only, Zhongli didn’t mind you standing so close to him, he quite liked it. But it wasn’t appropriate for him to voice those thoughts so he stayed silent on the matter.

Zhongli sighed in short-lived relief. “Though I am going to have to scold you for being late. Ganyu how do people who come to class late apologise?” You cross your arms playfully. Ganyu’s eyes light up as she tugs the lapel’s of her father's jacket. “Papa you will have to write on a paper ‘I am sorry for coming late’! You have to write it 20 times!” She exclaimed.

“Of course angel, I’ll get right to it when we get home okay?” He promised, giving a little oomph when Ganyu hugged his neck out of the blue. When you giggled softly, Zhongli peeked at you. That laugh of yours pulled his heartstrings and he joined you, the two of you giggling together.

“If that is all, then I should be bidding you farewell, Mister…” You trailed off, wordlessly asking the male in front of you for his name. He coughed and extended his free hand for you to shake. “Zhongli. Please, just Zhongli is enough.” Your smaller hand wrapped around his and your fingers felt so soft, Zhongli wondered if you’d held the clouds in your hands at some point during the day.

“I am Y/N. It is a pleasure to meet you, Zhongli.” His name coming from your lips felt so perfect. Never before had he felt warmth blooming across his face when someone spoke his name. This feeling was so strange yet so right at the same time.

The beginning of something wonderful and memorable.

Zhongli gazed at you warmly, “The pleasure is all mine Y/N.”

Aether was the most surprised, seeing Zhongli return with Ganyu in his arms and a giddy grin on his lips. You could practically see the halo of pink hearts floating around his head. “You look like you’re in a good mood. What’s up?” Aether chuckled, setting little Xiao in his seat and walking to take Ganyu and give her supper.

Zhongli snapped back to his original self, trying to gather his composure while walking into his house. “Nothing much, just met Ganyu’s teacher today.” Aether didn’t think much of it, brushing it off as a parent-teacher meeting, but sweet angel Ganyu had to open her mouth.

“Aether, Miss Y/N is the best teacher ever! She is so pretty and she makes me laugh and she even made papa laugh today. If Y/N didn’t help papa then I would still be mad at him. Even papa thinks Miss Y/N is pretty, right papa?” She blurted out, then proceeded to stuff her face with mashed potatoes.

The younger male glanced at his superior, smiling in amusement at the scarlet red blush that covered his embarrassed face. “Oh, is that so Zhongli?” He teased, giving him a knowing look.

To ease a forming lump in his throat, Zhongli walked to the fridge to grab himself a glass of water. “Yes, she is quite…beautiful and sweet. She was really nice to Ganyu when she started crying and it was very kind of her to take care of Ganyu when I reached to pick her up late and…I’m not going to speak any further for I don’t wish to embarrass myself more.” Zhongli gulped down the liquid and averted Aether’s gaze, one filled with mock and tease.

Days later Zhongli was still thinking about the attractive, kind teacher he met. Did he say attractive? Well, you definitely were, since he did find himself get attracted to you. Your smile and gentle eyes peering at him had etched themselves into his daydreams. It was quite strange, he never felt this sort of tightness in his chest before whenever he met another woman. But you, oh dear you, you had stained every vacant thought of his ever since that afternoon.

A knock on his bedroom door snapped him out of his thoughts. “Ahem, come in!” He called out, expecting it to be Aether with some reports or something of the sort. Only to his surprise, his daughter walked in, a sheet of paper and a bright red crayon in her hands.

“Hello angel. What’s the matter.” Zhongli spun in his chair and leaned down to lift his daughter in his arms, seating her on his lap. She laid the paper on top of his work and handed him the red crayon. “Papa you still have to write the apology to Miss Y/N! You have to write ‘I am sorry for coming late’ 20 times! Papa you promised!” The little girl huffed.

Zhongli laughed, but upon seeing Ganyu’s serious expression, his jest died down. She really did want him to write the apology. “Of course angel, I’ll start right away.” Even when he said that she refused to move from his lap until he started writing.

For his comfort, he used his own pen, the ink gliding across the sheet in his calligraphic handwriting. Whenever he finished writing down one sentence, his daughter cheered and counted down, a method of motivation which she had learnt from her teacher, she informed. Zhongli smiled to himself. Beautiful and smart. This woman kept surprising her.

“Andddd done!” He announced, putting a full stop at the end of his 20th sentence. He had to admit, even though he writes pages worth of writing in a single sitting, this punishment felt very taxing.

“Yay! Congratulations papa! Now when you give it to Miss Y/N tomorrow, she will surely give you a gold star.” His eyes widened and his cheeks warmed. “You want me to come to give it to her?” He inquired, making sure he heard her right the first time. Ganyu rolled her eyes dramatically, “Of course papa. If I give it to her, then she will think that I wrote the apology.”

Her reasoning was very valid for a 7-year-old, so Zhongli shrugged and decided to go along with it. “Then I shall come with you tomorrow.” He smiled. What a perfect opportunity to get to meet you again.

The next day when Zhongli woke up to take Ganyu to school, he felt…more eager to do that daily task. While getting ready, he spritzed on his favourite cologne, one which he saved for special occasions, he wore one of his better coats and sweaters and he made sure his hair looked better than it usually did. He thought to himself, ‘why am I dressing up so much? What is going on with me?’

And all his questions were answered when he walked into the school grounds and saw your smile as you greeted the other children and parents. You were practically glowing, shining brighter than a diamond in the moonlight. You walked to the children who were reluctant to leave their parents and you encouraged them, gave them the confidence to join you in your classroom.

“Papa come! We need to meet Miss Y/N before you go!” Ganyu’s excited figure pulled Zhongli through the crowd of adults and kids until he found himself standing a few feet from you. He froze up when Ganyu left his hand and darted towards you, engulfing your leg in a bear hug. He should also greet you, it’s polite to do so.

“Good morning, Ganyu! How are you today?” You kneeled to her eye level and conversed with her, grinning at her enthusiastic replies. “I am very good! I was a big girl yesterday and I made papa write the sorry note for you. Please give him a gold star!”

Your E/C trailed up to the man who stood behind Ganyu, his lips turned in a lopsided grin. “Oh is that so?” You look at him with a playfulness in your tender gaze, he couldn’t stop his heart rate from increasing.

He pulled out the slip of paper from his pocket and handed it to you, praying that when you take it from him, your hands would meet. He really wanted to feel your feather-soft touch once again. And thankfully the archons above heard his prayers for when you reached out to grab the paper, you lightly touched his warm hand, your touch sending waves of homeliness through him. Was it too soon to describe that feeling as homeliness? Maybe, but that word was just perfect to describe the sensation taking over him.

A delighted giggle escaped your lips as you unfolded the paper to find that he had indeed written the apology 20 times. You were amazed by his beautiful handwriting, almost finding it hard to believe that he wrote it and it wasn’t the product of a professional calligraphy artist.

“Ganyu, why don’t you go join your friends in class? I am sure Keqing is waiting for you.” You wink at her, seeing her bubble excitedly. She gave her father a quick hug and ran inside, leaving you and Zhongli standing in front of each other.

“She never stops talking about you.” You beam at him starting a conversation as the other students started crowding into the main building. The pride that filled his amber eyes beckoned you to speak further, wanting to see more of his handsome expression.

“She admires and idolises you, Zhongli. She always tells all her friends bout how her papa knows everything about the earth and she even told us stories about how the Liyuan Canyon was formed as a result of years of erosion by the river. She had the whole class captivated, I’ve never seen the students so quiet and interested in history.” You giggle as he sheepishly laughs and rubs his neck.

“Thank you for your kind words. Though I must express, you are a role model for her as well. She always talks about the pretty teacher who pays attention to all the students’ needs and encourages her to perform her best” He complimented, only realising he called you pretty when he recalled his words after seeing you blush. “Oh dear, I am really sorry. That was not professional of me.” He spluttered. ‘What happened to the calm and composed Zhongli?’ He cursed himself.

“I don’t mind the compliment Zhongli. Thank you.” You looked to the side to avoid his eyes, but when you noticed the emptiness around you, you realised that you had a class to take care of. “I should probably get back to my students.” You patted your clothes out of instinct as you waved at him and turned to walk away.

Zhongli mistook your hurry as discomfort from calling you pretty. Just as he was about to scowl at himself, you looked over your shoulder and grabbed his attention. “And about your gold star, how about I give it to you when you come to pick Ganyu in the afternoon?” Your offer to hang out with him for a while longer did not go unnoticed.

He stood tall and fixed his blazer, mirroring your gentle smile. “I’ll be looking forward to my reward.”

That afternoon he was greeted with you waiting to put a gold star sticker on the breast pocket of his blazer, Ganyu getting excited at how her father got his first sticker. All day that day, he subconsciously ran his fingers over the smooth star-shaped sticker, smiling to himself.

From that day, your relation progressed from father and teacher to some sort of friends.

In the crowd, his face was the one you’d always be most eager to see and he yours.

The two of you would talk of trivial topics before the school bell rang and you had to leave for your respective job; and in the afternoons he would stay back a little longer, your conversations drawing him in as Ganyu played in the grounds.

Your nightingale like voice and childlike expression whenever you spoke of something that excited you made him sigh in happiness. His mind was all fuzzy and he felt like he could spend hours just hearing you talk and admiring your beautiful features.

Conversations with you were never dull, you always kept Zhongli on his toes with the tales you had to offer about your teaching experience and he entertained you with historical stories that had your interests piqued.

One day you told him that Ganyu mentioned during a presentation that she had a little brother and you were hoping to see a picture of him. Happy to fulfil your request, Zhongli pulled out his phone and swiped through the gallery, showing you various pictures of him, Ganyu and Xiao.

He laughed heartily when you snatched his device and gushed over his younger child, commenting about how much he resembles his father. You even requested to meet him someday and Zhongli was more than excited for you to meet Xiao.

The first time you met Xiao, Zhongli was slightly nervous, constantly reminding Xiao to be on his best behaviour. He knew it would be hard for a toddler to follow such strict instructions, but a man could dream.

To his surprise, Xiao was much more mannered when you walked over and greeted him in your baby voice. His eyes were wide and head tilted to get a better look at your face from his father’s arms.

Looking at Zhongli for perMission to hold him and receiving a nod in return, you opened your arms, getting ready to hold him. Zhongli expected his son to shrink back, but Xiao’s eagerness to jump into your arms startled him.

Picking up the 3-year-old on your hip, you asked him questions such as his name and age, cooing whenever he answered. Your praises embarrassed him and he hid himself in your hair, softly playing with your H/C ends.

“I’ve never seen him this quiet. Are you sure you’re not a divine being?” Zhongli’s eyes lidded as he exhaled deeply, a lovestruck expression drawn on his face. You blushed at his words and gave your much more accurate reply. “I guess I am just good with children. I like them and they like me, isn’t that true little Xiao.” You booped his nose and he snorted a laugh in return, proving your claim.

The 15 minutes he stayed back turned into an hour, the three of you walking to a nearby park and sitting on a bench while Ganyu tried catching butterflies in her little fingers.

Often Zhongli would buy you some coffee or tea from a local cafe, whatever is your preference. Many a time you told him that he had no need to, but he insisted, saying that it was a treat, from one friend to another.

In the chilly autumn afternoons, with the sun’s dim light shining between the withering leaves, Zhongli came to fall in love with you, staring at your features as you cradled Xiao in your lap, poking his nose and laughing with Ganyu whenever he sneezed cutely.

But, what was he to do with these feelings?

“Papa! Papa!” His little daughter burst into his room, with Aether and Xiao trailing behind her. Zhongli’s eyes darted up from his work and he took off his specs, jumping from his seat to kneel in front of his frantic daughter. “Ganyu? Is everything alright?” His eyes scanned her for any injuries, raising an eyebrow when he saw her with an ear to ear smile.

“Papa it is Miss Y/N’s birthday tomorrow! We have to specially meet her tomorrow! We have to make her a card and buy her a gift! We need to buy her a pretty diamond necklace.” Ganyu rambled on, various gift ideas pouring out her mind. Zhongli smiled and shook his head. “Yes, we do need to buy her a pretty gift. Why don’t you go put on some shoes and we’ll go shopping right now?” Ganyu squealed and ran out of the room.

“Ah is this the reason you declined day after tomorrow’s invitation to the Historian Meet?” Aether wiggled his eyebrows at Zhongli, causing him to roll his eyes at Aether’s childishness. “It’s nothing like that. Y/N invited us to her house for her birthday dinner and I thought it would be quite rude to decline her offer over something that happens every second month.” He tried justifying himself. A simpler reason would have been, ‘I like her and I want to spend more time with her.’

That year her birthday fell on a Saturday and she had invited Zhongli and his children for a celebration dinner on Sunday, just the 4 of them. When she asked him over the phone if he could make it, Zhongli nodded like an eager child and then slapped his forehead in realisation that she couldn’t see him.

In the afternoon, Zhongli and Aether took Ganyu and Xiao to the shopping complex, and the two children who would usually be so engrossed in buying for themselves, their only goal for today was to find the perfect gift go you.

“Papa should we buy her a dress? I want to pick a dress for her!” Ganyu whined and pulled the others into a boutique. “I’ll take care of Xiao while you help Ganyu select a gift.” Aether declared, leaving the father to fend for himself.

A good 20 minutes it took for the 7-year-old to select a dress, with the assistance of her father and a store clerk. Zhongli was in awe of the floor-length mermaid shaped silver dress that Ganyu tugged from the shelves, proclaiming that it was the perfect gift for Miss Y/N. He sure hoped that his estimate of her dress size was accurate enough to fit her.

This is a very good choice Angel. You really like Miss Y/N, don’t you?” Zhongli gave her a close eyed smile, paying for the dress at the check out counter. She nodded vigorously, “Yes! Miss Y/N is my favourite and I know she’s your favourite too!” Zhongli choked on air as the cashier subtly smirked, having overheard their conversation.

“Ganyu! You don’t speak like that in public!” Zhongli spoke sternly but didn’t deny her statement. “Sir, I know it’s not my place to say, but would you like to check out our selection of pendants? Maybe you could find something of your liking.” The cashier offered, gesturing to the display of necklaces and gems aplenty.

Zhongli hummed to himself. A pendant would be a nice gift, holding great emotion and even hints of intimacy. He felt a tug on his pants and his daughter was having thoughts that overlapped with his. Maybe a necklace would be a perfect gift along with the dress.

Finally, the night of the dinner came. You were getting restless, repeatedly smoothening your knee-length dress while checking your make up in the mirror. How this night would end, you had no knowledge. But you really wanted to try your best, hoping to woo the man you had been developing feelings for.

When the bell rang, your heart pumped faster in your chest as you darted across your small apartment to open the door. There on the other side was Zhongli, Xiao on his hip and Ganyu standing beside him, clinging to his pants. Behind them was a blonde man you’ve never seen before, who you assumed to be Aether by the description Zhongli had given you in the past.

“Good evening Y/N. Wishing you the happiest birthday.” Zhongli leaned forward and pressed an air kiss to either of your cheeks in greeting. Seeing the way his father kissed your cheeks, Xiao reached forward and wrapped his hands around your neck, the suddenness of his action making you jolt forward to catch him and Zhongli scrambling to catch you with his free hand, in case you fall. Xiao cutely pressed a big kiss to your right cheek and then your left, mumbling a small hello.

Your face turned ruby red. But not at the child’s kiss. Zhongli’s hand was firmly gripping your waist as he held Xiao, the boy leaning on you in a very awkward position. The tension was thick, your eyes stayed fixed on Zhongli’s bright eyes as even he found it hard to tear away from his gaze from yours.

Thankfully, a deliberate cough from Aether helped snap you back to reality. “Let me hold him. And please! Do come in.” You took Xiao from Zhongli’s arms and opened the door wider, letting the 3 of them in. “I hope you don’t mind me calling Aether along, I required some assistance with the children.” He apologised.

“Nonsense! I am so happy to finally put a face to the name. It is great to finally meet you Aether. Zhongli doesn’t stop talking about how helpful you are, be it with his kids or in general.” You extend your free hand to shake his, getting a cheeky smile from him in return. “It is wonderful to finally see the Y/N that has Mr Zhongli daydreaming and-.”

“Oh by the way, here is your present. Ganyu selected it herself.” Zhongli grinned and took a well-wrapped box from Aether, preventing him from talking any further. You giggled at his obviousness and walked to the couch, sitting down and pouring some drinks for everyone, handing the kids a carton of fruit juice each.

“Come on Miss Y/N! Open your present!” Ganyu bounced on the couch in excitement, pushing the box further up your lap. Zhongli was ready to tell her off for misbehaving, but you quickly puller her to your side and together started ripping off the nicely done wrapping paper. Zhongli hissed internally at how messy the two of you were being, but seeing to smile at Ganyu’s elated figure, he guessed that you did that for her happiness.

“I hope you like it Miss Y/N!” Ganyu played with her fingers as you lifted the lid of the box. Even Zhongli sat on the edge of his seat, waiting to see your reaction. He was more than pleased when you gasped and squealed, pulling out the sequinned fabric of the dress. You stood up and pressed the clothing to your chest, the dress draping in front of you. Zhongli imagined you in that dress, looking absolutely stunning with your current makeup and hairdo. He could hear the drumming of his heart in his ears, but that wasn’t able to drown out the sounds of you thanking him for buying you such a wonderful present.

“Please, I wanted to treat you. A wonderful person such as yourself only deserves the best.” He beamed as you folded the dress and carefully put it back in the box, ready to store it to be worn on a special occasion.

After a little more talking and laughing, the children started complaining about feeling hungry. Seeing the clock, you clapped your hands and announced that it was indeed time for dinner.

Once you seated everyone at the dining table and disappeared into the kitchen to bring dinner, Aether kicked Zhongli from under the table. Aether’s wide eyes and curled lips along with his head tilting towards the kitchen struck Zhongli as an instruction to go help Y/N. Not only out of politeness but also for some alone time.

He left the table and walked into the kitchen to see you gathering plates and bowls for everyone. He offered to help and even after you denying, he was resilient. Finally, you gave up and let him lend a hand, setting the plates and cutlery on the table.

He helped you carry all the dishes you prepared by hand. He wasn’t very happy that you went through the pain of cooking everything, especially since it was your birthday celebration, but the flavourful smell wafting through the air made him look forward to the meal.

At one point during the set up, the two of you reached for the same pot of curry sitting atop the counter, your fingers making contact. Like lovestruck teenagers, you stared at each other and started blushing, both offering to take it out instead. Using your ‘my house, my rules’ ability, you went and placed the final serving bowl on the table, with Zhongli trailing behind you only a breath away, bumping into you when you suddenly turned.

“Dig in!” You announced and everyone started eating. Moans of satisfaction and exclamations of ‘so yummy!’ filled the dining room, making you bashful.

Zhongli praised your cooking, telling you how he’s never tasted such delicious home cooked food and if he had a choice, he would eat such food for the rest of his life. Only when he was drinking water did he realise the implied meaning of his words. When he looked at you, he was relieved to see you smiling at him, in a way that showed that you accepted that hidden meaning. Could it be…

Dinner went by as smooth as it could. Yes, Xiao did start crying about how he did not want to eat his vegetable because they were yucky. Aether and Zhongli tried their best to convince him to eat, using methods such as the aeroplane and the chop chop train, but all in vain. Thankfully you stepped in to save the day.

Only when you did the aeroplane did Xiao agree to eat! He was happily eating the beans from your fork as if that was his plan all along, to be fed by you. You laughed at how Zhongli’s mouth was hung open. His own son had betrayed him, he wasn’t going to forget that ever.

Zhongli seemed to find more and more things about you to admire, from the way you were able to keep his children well behaved and still joyous with your humorous anecdotes to how you gelled well with Aether, laughing with him about Zhongli’s embarrassing parenting moments.

Eventually, dinner came to an end. Xiao very conveniently crawled into his father’s lap during dinner and fell asleep against his shoulder and Ganyu’s head was lolling around as she struggled to keep her eyes open.

Aether announced that it was time for him to take the children home since it was much past their bedtime and they had school the next day. As you went to shake Ganyu awake, she grabbed your hand and pulled your face down so that she could whisper in your ear.

“Papa has a special gift for you. I hope you like it.” And she was out like a light bulb.

You smiled to yourself and carried her downstairs, not wanting to bother the father or his friend with the task. Aether was quite thankful and once you were walking down the stairs, he caught Zhongli’s eye and winked at him teasingly, enjoying the reawakening blush on his face.

You and Zhongli set his kids in the backseat and buckled them up snuggly. Aether and Zhongli spoke a while and you not wanting to pry in their conversation continued to make the kids feel comfortable in their seats. A smile graced your face and their sleepy figures as you closed the door.

Aether stepped into the car and waved at you and Zhongli, the male finding his spot beside you.

“Are you staying a little longer?” You asked, hoping that he wasn’t going to head off for some last minute meeting or anything. Zhongli turned around to face your apartment building, lifting his arm and sticking out his elbow for you to grab. “I’ll stay if you want me to.”

You beamed at his offer and grabbed his forearm, walking with him back to your house. “Ah, I completely forgot about the cake!” You walked to the kitchen with Zhongli trailing behind you. From the fridge, you pulled out a small chocolate cake with Happy Birthday frosted on in royal red icing. “My cousin is a baker and she sent it for me. I was really hoping to share it with you and your kids.” You chuckle nervously, placing the cake on the coffee table in front of the couch.

“Well, maybe you can cut it in my presence and bring it over tomorrow to my place. We can have it along with a nice cup of coffee if you’ll accept my invitation.” He spoke while lighting up the birthday candles, both of you sitting side by side on the couch, your bodies almost touching. All either of you needed was a little encouraging push.

You nodded at him and picked up the knife. “Well, time to blow out the candles and make a wish!” You exclaim, closing your eyes and leaning forward. You were silent for a second, making your wish and once you opened your eyes, you blew the candles. Zhongli clapped as you cut a slice and before you could pick it up, he beat you to it, lifting the confectionary to your lips. “Birthday girl gets the first bite.”

You couldn’t deny the tension in the air when you wrapped your fingers around his wrist to guide the cake to your mouth. He couldn’t deny the feelings bubbling in his heart when you laughed with a face full of chocolate. Both of you could read the others eyes when he leaned forward to swipe some frosting off your lips.

“I…I umm brought you a gift. Apart from the dress.” He blushed and reached into his blazer pocket, pulling out a long velvet box. He sat up in front of you and opened the box to reveal a pendant- a gorgeous pearl-shaped one, the gem of a soft pink shade sparkling in the lighting of your house.

“Zhongli…this is so beautiful.” You hesitated to touch the gift, not knowing its monetary worth, but with his encouragement, you reach forward to brush your fingers against the silver chain and the glistening gem. You looked away from the necklace and saw his gentle eyes on you, taking in your fascinated expression. “Zhongli…can you help me put it on?”

He was taken aback by your request. Asking him to help you with your necklace, it was a direct request to be touched, for him to brush his fingers in butterfly soft motions over your skin. A request for intimacy.

He gulped and nodded, carefully picking the necklace out of its case while you turned around and lifted your hair, exposing your neck. The sweet smell of your perfume hit his nose and it was a lucky coincidence that you were unable to see his shaking fingering and red ears.

“This gem, it’s a rose quartz. And it does have some…meaning, if you wish to put it that way.” You shivered when the cold metal touched your collarbone, it sliding up your skin as Zhongli tried to clasp it behind your neck. You could feel his breath fan over the nape of your neck. “What’s its significance.” You whispered, the tone of the rooming dimming down.

“It…It’s a symbol of unconditional love. Of the purest and sincerest of emotions, from one person to another.” The click of metal signalled that the necklace was locked around your neck. You looked down to admire it in your fingers, giving great attention to how Zhongli’s hands dropped down to your waist. He shuffled closer, closer enough for your back to hit his chest and his chin rest on your shoulder, his burning cheek right up against yours.

You allowed his faint embrace, leaning back to rest your weight against him. He hummed in your ear softly. You could feel his Adam’s apple bob nervously as if he was itching to speak. A moment later, he found the courage to pour out his feelings.

“Y/N...I have a confession to make.” He pulled from you, causing you to shift in your seat and face him. You smile at his gentle smiling, feeling his hand reach up to cradle your cheek. Relaxing against his warmth, a satisfied breath escaped your lips as you slowly nodded your head, giving him to go to speak on.

“The reason I chose this gem was…as a confession of my growing feelings for you. I don’t know how or when it happened, but now when I look into your eyes, I…there’s no way around this.” He blushed bashfully and looked to the side, unable to collect his thoughts and convert them into words.

“Zhongli…just tell me what you’re feeling. Who knows, maybe I’ll reciprocate your feelings…” You lift your other hand to cover your pink cheeks. He chuckled lightly at slanted in your direction, till you could see the golden threads of his irises.

“Well then if I may be so bold to confess…Y/N, I have developed romantic feelings for you. My confession is in no means a way for you to feel obligated to feel for me back-“ He was going to ramble out a long apology after his small confession.

Your smile grew and you threw yourself into Zhongli’s arms, rubbing your nose against his neck. The overwhelming feeling of happiness was intoxicating as you giggled into his shoulder. “I like you too Zhongli. Like a lot.” Your confession, so simple yet filled with so many emotions, Zhongli laughed in relief hearing your words.

“I am so happy you feel that way.” His arms tightened around your waist, squeezing you in a bear hug. You squeal in his hold and pull your face away to see his soft happy smile. His smile faltered when he noticed how close your lips were to his, he could feel your warm breath on his lips, the sensation quite ticklish.

“May I…may I kiss you Y/N?” He gulped. Your lips brushed over his when you nodded and a wild part of him came to life.

His hands flew up to cup your cheeks as he pulled you in, placing his lips on top of yours with such gentleness, it made your head feel dizzy. His soft lips danced with yours in harmony, parting and meeting yours again and again. He delicately brushed his thumbs over your cheekbones, drawing you deeper into the kiss. Your hands dropped to his sweater, clutching the wool in your fingers. His kisses had you feeling drunk, and with every breath and gasp for air, you pulled him in for more.

You shifted closer to him till your thighs touched, every contact had electricity zooming through your nerves. Your fingers found the ends of his well-kept hair and shamelessly you tangled your digits in his soft chocolate locks, bringing him even closer if possible. His hands trailed down to your lower back, arching you closer to his body, till the warmth of your chest pressed against his. Your warmth… radiated that home like feeling again, and Zhongli welcomed that with open arms, holding you like the most precious being in the world.

Thoughts ran crazy in Zhongli’s head. He knew that if he ever had the opportunity to kiss you, your lips would feel so smooth against his, but he never expected it to feel so…perfect. As if his lips were made to kiss yours, fitting together like puzzle pieces. Butterflies flew crazily in his stomach, a sensation he’d completely forgotten about before he met you. You entered his life and gave him the love he didn’t know he missed and now that he had a little taste, he craved more and more of you.

Separating for real this time, you panted, feelings his heavy breath against you. You lifted your head and bite your lip, stopping that huge grin from appearing on your face. Zhongli didn’t want to hold back his happiness. He laughed and hugged you tight, peppering kisses on your cheeks.

“I am so happy you’ve agreed to accept my feelings Y/N. So very happy.” He cheered, words trailing off as his eyes fell upon you again. He pecked your lips, once then twice, making sure the events that just happened weren’t a dream.

“So what does this mean for us? Do you think Ganyu and Xiao will be fine with you having a lover?” You hesitated with your words, trying to voice out your concerns. He understood your worries and grabbed your hands, bringing them up for him to place gentle kisses on your knuckles. “I think they’d be quite welcoming. They love you already and having you join our little family would bring them great happiness. That is, if you’re ready to?” Zhongli whispered softly, knowing the responsibility you would be agreeing to if you accept.

You think for a minute, then flip your hands to place Zhongli’s on top, giving butterfly kisses to his nervous hands. “I don’t know if I can think that far ahead. But what I know is that at this moment, I want to be with you, I want to be with Ganyu and Xiao. I want to see your face, first thing when I wake up and I want to kiss the children before they sleep. If you’ll have me, the way I am?”

Zhongli didn’t even need to give it a second thought, he was already nodding his head and pulling you against his chest, kissing you all over again. Hearing your angelic giggles and feeling your electrifying touch, Zhongli knew that for the first time in a long time, he was ready to love again.

first kiss hcs w/ the veterans

» feat. Erwin, Levi, & Hange +Jean

» warnings for suggestive content(!)

» can be read as gender-neutral

ERWIN SMITH

––––––––––––– first kiss:

He would 100% ask permission first - not a doubt in my mind. The epitome of a proper gentleman, this one. I don’t see him as being very nervous at all beyond a few flutters bc after all, Erwin wouldn’t dare to make a move before he’s certain you’ll reciprocate (ever the strategist..)

A coy smile peeks at his cheeks. “Would you mind if I kissed you?”

What a man - very likely to take over leading you the first time, gently guiding your lips in a sensual, slow kiss that leaves your head fuzzy and your stomach spinning out of control. Perhaps Erwin is even so daring as to swipe his tongue across your puffy bottom lip right as he pulls away 😵‍💫

where they like to be kissed:

More than anything?? On his lips, sweet and simple. No matter if it’s the traditional way to kiss someone, a peck on the lips makes Erwin’s heart warm :(( It means that you’re dedicated to each other, that you two are more closely tied than anyone - Erwin more than anything needs a partner who understands him and a deep, sensual kiss is a big reassurance that you do.

Also, his chest - specifically right over his heart 😽 Not only is that where he carries his pride, but he has a thick, hulking chest and sensitive nipples. I said what I said.

Pepper kisses up and down his strong jawline too, his strong nose, and this magnificent smile will crease at his lips.

where they like to kiss you:

Your chest - for many of the same reasons. Erwin keeps his large palm graced over your heart and will press wet, open-mouthed kisses straight down the center, paying special attention to the pretty peaks of your nipples. He loves tracing the arc of your shoulderblades with his lips too, right where the bones resemble wings.

As a more traditional man, he feels a glowing feeling unfurl in his chest to mold your lips with his. Not to mention! gently taking your hand and kissing it like he’s cradling a butterfly wing :(( He’ll do such a smooth, gentlemanly move in the middle of a public street, in the privacy of his office, right after he dicks you down,,, no exceptions.

JEAN KIERSTEIN

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first kiss:

Jean talks a lot of big game and he puts on the facade of a total lady’s man - but, this is the same man whose train of thought will totally jam that first heart-stopping moment when you lean in to kiss him; barely has the mind to reciprocate with the slightest tilt of his head, his palm landing on the small of your back as he practically launches you back with just how eager he is.

He wanted to respect your space and was too chickenshit to just ask - even though he’s been craving a kiss forever now, to the point where he makes more eye contact with your lips more than, well, your eyes.

So passionate, a little hesitant until your noses are bumping in hasty desire to deepen the kiss. He’s got the faintest of a blush dusting his cheeks once one of you thinks to finally pull away.

where they like to be kissed:

The palm of his big hand :( especially when he's cradling the apple of your cheek. And his sharp jawline where his stubble tickles your lips.

The nape of his neck! Brush his sandy-colored hair out of the way and he’ll shiver under the press of your silky lips ok. He adores it… and his neck in general. He gets such a warm, fuzzy feeling when you approach from behind and (him being a whopping 6’2 / 190cm) reach up on the tips of your toes to buryyour face in his neck. perhaps your arms sling around his waist?? he gets a kick out of it.

where they like to kiss you:

Jean strikes me as such a man willing to please … but he has a teasing streak. He likes smack soft, wet kisses over both of your hipbones right before his heavy tongue lands between your legs yk..

If we’re talking more SFW?? He loves peppering your collar with kisses, tracing the ridges with his tongue. Anything for the thrill of your reaction, which means the spot just behind your ear when he’s coming up from behind …

and these soft, fragile forehead kisses so he has an excuse to watch your lashes flutter and get a look at the features he admires so much up close.

LEVI ACKERMAN

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first kiss:

Very little chance of him initiating - infinitesimal actually, almost 0%. He needs your palm to drift over his cheek and guide him towards you, close enough for your lashes to kiss each other’s skin even.

“What… are you doing?”

Levi would be quiet, frozen stiff - but only because his mind is going haywire and there’s at least a million butterflies fluttering around his stomach. The blush on this man’s face so warm and sweet that you may be close enough to feel the heat radiating off his skin :((

Levi has these full, baby-pink lips too.. so soft and plush bc there’s no way he’d neglect personal hygiene in any way. He goes all out :((

And then when he first feels that brush of your lips against his? His eyelids flutter and he may not even react. He needs a moment to collect himself because you, wanting to kiss him? God he’s so nervous.

It’s easy to interpret his clamming up as disgust or lack of desire - but Levi will gently catch the nape of your neck and tug you back in.

Your first kiss is so light, barely a peck; he needs to test the waters, and his mind is so jammed by all these fuzzy flutters that he can do nothing but take it slow. So sweet :(

“Hey—why'd you stop?"

where they like to be kissed:

Levi pretends to loathe sweet little pecks and loving passes between your lips but in reality?? Kiss him just about anywhere and he’ll be flustered and fuzzy and warm :((

Smooth his bangs off his forehead (bc Levi loves his hair being touched) and press a dainty kiss on his forehead, or that spot just below his ear while sparing sweet words to him… Take his hand and kiss his fingers too :(( he will melt.

His inner thighs!!! Over his navel! That little junction between his jaw and the slope of his neck - all these sensitive, fiery spots Levi has never ever experienced such tender love. A warm blush will stretch across his cheeks, and he’ll go totally bashful, mind empty.

where they like to kiss you:

Where he likes to give you kisses is almost… innocent in a way, tho he’s the furthest thing from that. But Levi needs time to warm up to physical affection yk? Let alone initiating it.

He’ll kiss your cheek when you’re just waking up with hopes you won’t notice :(( Truthfully he’s super shy... he likes a small, reassuring kiss to your shoulder where the hem’s slipped down + right over your heart in your more passionate moments (similar to Erwin).

He could spend a whole hour just idly playing with your fingers, kissing your knuckles, putting a peck on your fingertips. Very sweet :(

HANGE ZÖE

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first kiss:

Hange gets so excited okay - a little absent-minded too. Maybe you’re doing the smallest, kindest favor for them, like handing over a beaker when they’re in a jam and on the verge of a breakthrough. They don’t particularly think about it when they launch up from where they’re stooped over their things by the heels of their hands, giggling excitedly, “That’s it! You’re perfect, my dear,” and plants a hasty kiss on your lips.

Not that kissing you doesn’t send them into cardiac arrest, but it feels so natural around you ! Everything has always came so easily, and they feel so unabashedly like themself that it doesn’t really cross their mind that you’ve never kissed until it happens??

Both your eyes would go wide like saucers, but yours are wider. “Hange!?”

“Oh.” They can’t help but smile despite themself. “Oops..! Wasn’t thinking.”

where they like to be kissed:

The nape of their neck. It isn’t just because of their fixation on Titans, either - it's such an intimate place to kiss someone, especially if you’re spooning them from behind. At once, little shivers tickle up and down their spine; they feel so safe in your arms. Don’t even get me started on mouthing over that special spot when you have them ass-up in bed 😵‍💫

where they like to kiss you:

In the most unconventional of places?? For some reason? Hange just wants to catalogue every part of you to memory, and all your reactions to things—a little giggle, your muscles locking up in a shiver, a raised brow… They would literally kiss every inch of you if they knew they could get away with it <3

Between the wings of your shoulderblades ! The shell of your ear (where a smile prodded at Hange’s lips at the goosebumps that rose up on your skin) ! Launching onto the bed and smacking kisses on both of your Achilles’ heels. Hange loves to leave kisses in places most people normally wouldn’t think of.

multi. masterlist | main masterlist

Resolve ★ Kazuha

— ★ Scry: Solar Scintilla + Kazuha — ★ Genre: Platonic + Fluff — ★ Concept: There are times when he wakes up crying and cold, but those are quick to dissipate after remembering that he's been blessed with fate's mercy. — ★ Words: 3.6k — First Part: Vigil — ★ Blood A/N: Although the scry didn't explicitly state to be in Vigil's universe- 'solar scintilla' is an invitation- I hope anon dear didn't mind eeeee— read the first part (original) for context!

“Nee-san, come look!”

“My, what’s this?”

Little Kazuha beams as he shows the contents of his paper, watching his older sibling try to make sense of his drawing, “It’s home!”

“It’s pretty—but I don’t see a house?” [Name] flips the parchment to look at its backside, but there is nothing.

“There’s no need for one,” he smiles, “Because us two makes a home!”

A samurai lives with honor and vigilance, striking down foes with a wayward strike of a blade.

Known weaknesses are to be overcome and be a root of power, and with each descent of a comrade in the battlefield equates to honoring their death and trudging on to triumph over the war.

This creed is held above all for those who wield the sword, and Kazuha is no different from it.

It becomes his reason the moment his hand burns with the transient blaze of his friend’s Vision—becoming his purpose as he flees from Tenshukaku.

He has rooted deep into his heart the reality that he will have to respect Tomoaki’s decision. Accepted that he will honor him by bearing the now masterless Vision in hopes that one day, something greater will trounce that vicious lightning.

That passing shall be his source of strength, he will proceed with his own war.

But he later realizes with grave denial that he is far from being prepared to live by the code of the samurai.

“You…” a broken whisper in the cold.

He is not ready to march on his battlefield alone. It is an inopportune time—a cruel hand of destiny, a devastating turn of events. He did not want this.

He doesn’t want to honor this.

“Have to leave me.. Kazu..” a tiny plea lost to his ears.

Underneath the eternal squall that plays a part in fate’s cruel thesis, the fugitive runs with only the wind and his resolve as his incentives.

The lasting echoes of numerous bellows make him run faster.

But the heavy rain lags him down. The stormfall minutes ago has at long last begun to pour its tears, crying for a tragedy that is minutes away from reaching fruition.

Not if he goes against it, though.

Another murmur resounds, more desperate than ever, “They will catch you..”

The burn in his chest, the ache in his limbs, the mist in his eyes—why is it that even his body is going against his will?

Why must even he fall victim to this tragic play?

“I’m only slowing you down.”

He can’t allow it—no, he won’t allow it.

The boat is close—he has managed to outrun the shogunate, there is no way he’s stopping now.

The arms around his neck start to unlink themselves, letting go after the realization that he will not bend to the wish to let go. Feeling the deliberate loss of security on his person, he begins to panic.

Stop it. He can’t pause midway to move his sister from his back into his arms, there’s no time. Stop it… !

Amid the cold, he feels warmth seeping into the fabric of his already soaked clothes.

It’s his kin’s blood.

And just being here, bare in the watching eyes of life, trying to rescue someone who—despite is knocking on death’s door—still thinks of him in her last moments, makes him rasp out a sob he’s been trying to keep at bay.

“[Name], please just let me save you,”

His voice gets muffled by the rain and the shouting, but he knows his sister can hear him well, what with the responsive twitch of her fingers.

I cannot let it end like this, he thinks after recalling how bright [Name] had been when talking about the future. You cannot pass like this.

Why is that when he has finally started to reach back for the fingers that have grasped his—they are withdrawing farther and farther from him? Is this the universe’s reprisal for his negligence?

For knowing only how to lament and regret when everything is already too late?

“Please..” he tightens the hook of his grip on his sibling’s legs.

I’m sorry, I’m sorry, just please—please don’t take her.

Though he doesn’t remember when his thoughts begin to overpour with his grief, nor does he know who listens to his prayers, he doesn’t care.

Don’t take my sister from me.

He cries, “I can’t lose you, too.”

“…”

The sound of the rain is all that there is, but he doesn’t let up.

In all honesty, he believes that his voice no longer reached his sibling—that he’s far little, too late, and the hope inside is dying- but then he feels quivering hands latch onto him again.

Weak, barely even noticeable—but he does notice, and he almost cries out in utter relief, but he knows the battle has not ended yet.

He does not stop moving even after he has gently set the lady in the boat and he moves to push it in the waters.

Does not let his aching muscles ease as he summons a burst of wind that helps propel them forward and guide them in the direction of Yashiori.

Everything is a blur to him afterward, though he does remember his tremors as he overlooked the paling form of his sister and her open wound.

He remembers arriving at the shore near Fort Fujitou, having barely escaped the arrows from passing the shogunate stationed at the borders of Kannazuka.

No matter how hard he tries to cling to his sense of reason, the mix of hysteria and panic is enough to conquer rationality.

It’s still raining when he takes his kin into his arms to race towards the resistance camp some distance away.

But he has overestimated his body—before he knows it, his legs have given up on him and he falls onto the sand.

The horror that gnaws at his conscious intensifies after seeing his sister’s body roll away, followed by a feeble yet sharp groan of pain.

Washing away towards the rolling tides near them is a dull hue of red, darkening to crimson.

An endless stream of blood.

But what captures his focus the most is not the stream, but the pair of [c]s and the hand that is reaching out.

The unpleasant telltale of disquietude tears out raw distress and he almost breaks back into tears seeing his dying kin reach for him.

With newfound resolve and clawed fingers against the sand, Kazuha pushes himself up—only to collapse, the strain on his body too much to overcome.

His vision begins to blacken and—no, no, no, no.

I can’t, not now.. ! Even moving his arms have gotten so difficult, but he keeps on struggling- keeps on fighting. I’m so close… someone..

He mirrors the action, hand reaching forward to the distant figure of his sister in a silent cry of desperation. Please-!

But his vision finally fades to black.

Nee-san… !

Kazuha gasps, resurfacing from the ghoulish clutch of the night’s terror with a lurch from his bed.

His hand is hanging in midair, reaching for nonexistence—at least, now that he’s awake, there is nothing he’s reaching for.

Still at the crest of consternation, the dropping of his arm is slow, like the turning cogs and gears in his mind that start to make sense of what’s happened.

Another—another awful nightmare. What’s the count again?

Oh, who is he kidding, he no longer is able to take count of it.

It’s always the same dreamscape whenever he escapes to his slumbers, the fear, the denial… he still feels them even after waking up.

A raw wound—an eternal scar.

He tries not to think much of it, knowing that there’s nothing to worry over now.

But all that greets him when he closes his eyes is the blood—the spear, the time of impalement, and he all but throws his covers away in mild annoyance.

There is no way he can sleep now. That is basically just inviting the nightmares again.

With unease nestling in his still racing heart, he makes the decision to leave his cabin as silently as possible—so as to not wake those who sleep in the same room.

The rest has had enough of waking him up when he’s stuck in those horrible terrors and couldn’t for the life of him open his eyes.

The timid rock of the Alcor as it continues its voyage in the sea thankfully gives him some peace of mind, though it can never replicate the comfort provided by the elder Kaedehara.

He ascends to the main deck where he sees Beidou behind the wheel, her good eye leading him to the starboard.

Sitting upon the barrels nearby is none other than his sibling, who seems to be stitching something under the light of the moon.

His chest immediately surges with relief. She’s alright.

Sometimes, all he really needs is the reminder that his resolve did not fail him—that his fear can be put to ease knowing that the [c]-eyed lady is still alive.

“Oh, Kazuha, you can’t sleep?”

He shakes his head at this, almost embarrassed, but the understanding smile on his sister’s face tells him that everything is fine.

She pats the space next to her in a wordless invitation and the samurai doesn’t hesitate at all, taking the chance to revel in the comforting solace.

The latter realizes that the fabric being worked on is the scarf, its golden trim being fixed.

“What has gotten you up?” her voice is as kind as ever, already on the precipice of giving succor if need be.

It has the kind of cadence that will urge one not to lie even if it’s for the sake of not worrying her.

Perhaps he didn’t notice that he has failed to respond as quickly as usual—or maybe it’s because his answer is already known before it can form into words, for a hand is already laying upon his wrist.

[Name]’s expression is blunt with understanding.

“Oh, Kazu,” her murmur is soft, almost lost in the evening wind, “It’s okay. I’m here.”

The way his taut limbs go lax at the gentle reminder he so desired to hear is almost pitying, but he can’t be bothered to care.

Closing his eyes, he takes in a sigh of relief, grateful for the wind’s gentle caress.

The comfortable atmosphere proceeds without any interruption, the ambiance only being the breeze’s encapsulating sound and the sloshing of the tides against the hulls.

“You need not be scared any longer,” he opens his eyes after hearing his sibling speak, turning his eyes towards her—though she’s still engrossed with fixing the scarf.

“Do you remember when you came back to Inazuma to fight alongside the Traveler?”

Ah… he hums, letting his memory reel in the scenes just a few weeks ago, “Of course.”

When he blacked out by Fort Fujitou after his dire escape from the city, the General has found and taken him to camp. [Name] has been personally treated by the Divine Priestess and.

Kazuha has never been so grateful in his entire life.

Just being able to recall the miracle—the shred of mercy, the saving light in his darkening world—is enough to drive him back to tears.

In a rather dismaying case, however, he still has to leave the camp. He’s a fugitive then, after all, and he couldn’t bear to endanger the Resistance.

He left with a promise to help overturn the tides when he returns with more allies and swears to grant them any favor, be it big or small, in exchange for keeping his sister safe.

[Name]’s comatose forbade them from saying goodbye.

It hurt—and his eyes still stung when he left, even still when he came across Beidou.

He recalls attempting to reawaken his friend’s Vision as a way to lift himself up from the cliff of his negativity, and thus he met the Traveler, whose journey requires them to head towards the land of eternity.

Kazuha wished to step down from the Alcor then but knew it to be a reckless move, so he kept himself patient.

How can he forget the moment his feet stepped onto the shoal of Nazuchi when the time has finally come to battle against the forces brought by Kujou?

And in the aftermath of the battle, when they have succeeded and will return to camp, he can’t ever lose the memory of his speeding heart.

When Kazuha looks at his sister now, he can only envision the second he sees the same silver hair standing out from the crowd weeks ago.

[Name] had been treating the wounded and had just finished passing the bandages when their eyes had met.

The world is a blur after that. Nothing else mattered other than the tight embrace shared between them amid tears.

If he dwells on that memory for a while longer, he swears he can feel the warmth from that hug.

“You know, I’ve always had my doubts about leaving Inazuma,” [Name] stops with her work, setting the materials aside as she lifts the newly stitched scarf with a smile.

Kazuha hums, not expecting the divulgence. This is new.

He never really knows how his wanderlust is perceived, so to say that he’s intrigued is more than correct.

The scarf is lowered back onto [Name]’s lap as she caresses its fabric, her smile turning more nostalgic and despondent.

“Because all my life, I’ve devoted my time to making sure that you’ll grow up in a place that you can really call home,” with a wistful tone, she continues.

“Sometimes I even thought of marrying into one of the renowned clans if it means helping to restore the Kaedehara’s honor and give you the luxury that we lost. Leaving means forgetting my purpose.”

He is a part of that purpose.

His first outward reaction to this is to flinch.

I.. wasn’t aware of such plans, he swallows thickly. All this time, you’ve been doing everything for me.

Perplexed, he turns to his sibling, grasping her by the arm and taking her by surprise.

“You needn’t do such things… !” he breathes out in concern, worried that this mindset carried over until the present, “I am beyond content even with the way things are now, you—”

He zips his lips and bites down on them. You needn’t sacrifice more of your happiness for my sake…

[Name] pats the hand on her arm in a gentle fashion, reassuring, “I know, that is why I joined you. I had a time of repose and epiphany when we reunited.”

She takes a few moments for herself, letting nothing but her [c] eyes speak of the hundred of words she cannot utter in a second. Still, it eases the samurai.

“What you said as I was treating your wounds struck me a lot… do you remember it?”

He does, with perfect clarity.

Kazuha had been drowning in the words and emotions he’s suppressed that when he spilled even a portion of it, the dam was breaking.

He refused the healing offered by the Divine Priestess to be treated by his sister, instead.

And when they’re alone—he finally spoke of it.

“In the first suns and moons following the fruition of my wanderlust, it’s been lonesome,” he remembers the words as if he said it yesterday.

“For although a haven has been provided by the Crux, I’ve come to realize that I am not entirely delighted in my travels.”

He remembers [Name]’s look of confusion—because why would he be not content when his wish was to travel all along?

He remembers the way her hands gently tremored at the notion of another departure, remembers the look of loneliness in those eyes- that he just falls silent again and allows his memory to reign free.

“’It ails me to know that I left home’,” [Name] chuckles, “That’s what you said before asking me to join you.”

“I apologize for my selfishness, but—will you join me?”

He purses his lips with a nod. Because I’ve learned that you are my sanctuary—and I can’t bear to leave again.

“I realized then that perhaps leaving wouldn’t be so bad, not when my little brother is there with me to make it worthwhile.”

Kazuha watches with slightly wide eyes as the black and red scarf is placed on his person, snuggling around his neck in a perfect fit, complementing his attire.

“After all,”

Because the last time he was given this same article of clothing, he rejected it. Oh, was that such a foolish move of his.

[Name] gives him an endearing smile.

The same one she gave him when she woke him from his nightmares, when she told him to come back safe in the night—when she only thought of his welfare as she pleaded to be left behind so that he can escape.

“Us two together makes a home.”

He is instantaneously swept over by a wave of nostalgia.

It has his fingers rising to clasp the scarf around his neck, wary that if he chooses to hug his sibling, it may hurt her.

Eyes glossing and heart weighing—because even after all those years, she still remembers that—, he shakes.

Nee-san…

Although he does not say anything, [Name] nods, welcoming his wishes with the slight opening of her arms.

Kazuha does not turn away from this, scooting closer and making himself comfortable in the loving embrace.

The fact that he’s no longer a child does not even faze him in the slightest—in fact, he wallows in his own grief within it.

How could he have ever turned a blind eye to his only sister when all that she’s done was for him alone?

He made mistakes at a heavy cost, nuanced changing behaviors that progressed arguments and yet—

A tear slips past his eye. And yet you still honor and accept me.

It’s this heart-wrenching realization that bolsters the samurai’s resolve to do right this time around. To cherish, to respect, to be grateful.

He swears upon himself, as he’s lulled to sleep by the brushes upon his hair, over and over again.

I will return all that you gave me.

“Anchors!”

The Alcor is beginning to dock and as usual, many are waiting by the pier for various reasons—perhaps a returning loved one, or foreign goods.

Regardless, everyone’s faces are full of mirth.

It is rather contagious, but Kazuha doesn’t need its influence to work up a smile of his own. His reason is already standing by him.

“So this is Liyue…” a murmur of awe and disbelief, “It’s beautiful… what will we do here?”

To ease his stiff neck and aching shoulders—to sleep on mere barrels whilst sitting was uncomfortable but worth it—he rolls them a few times, taking an ample amount of time to respond.

Not like it’s a bad thing, he actually doesn’t want to impede his sister from admiring the harbor.

“Aside from a few commissions I plan to take for earnings, I wish to show you all that I’ve explored in the meantime.”

This will be the first time he’ll take up commissions.

It’s a new feat but not something he’s not willing to do. If this is to be any other case in which he’ll travel alone, he will simply make things work even if he has to sleep outside and hunt.

But now that someone is traveling with him—someone who has allotted all her time for his sake and growth—he will turn to… proper means of living.

He’d hate to make this any harder than it is.

“I’ve heard of some festival in a few days’ time, as well,” he informs as they bid farewell and thanks to the crew, at long last stepping onto the harbor of a different nation.

It almost feels surreal to watch [Name] take a step—almost hesitant as if she’s still in disbelief—forward, turning her eyes to all possible directions in muted excitement. Seeing it is rather bittersweet.

He hasn’t seen her this happy—and he didn’t expect himself to feel just as jovial. Oh, what a wonderful feeling this is.

“I heard of glaze lilies and dandelions, oh, it’d be a sight to see them.”

Dandelions?

Kazuha hums at the familiar sound of the flora before nodding, “Ah, those are found in the city of wind. A neighboring nation.”

“Mm..”

He knows that distant look anywhere. It’s almost foreign. He hasn’t seen it in a long time but still knows what it means—perhaps, this is because they are siblings.

You’ve always kept silent about your own wishes because you’re prioritizing mine, he sighs. That won’t do now.

“We can visit if you so wish.”

The way those [c]s flash alight with a gleam so beautiful and liberated makes him stop breathing for a moment. Happy.

Nee-san… his voice is lost. For a second—it seems like they haven’t surfaced from great troubles and everything is fine.

“Truly?” [Name] smiles, radiant and blooming and alive.

Feeling his heart warm with gratitude—for the universe’s mercy—and ease, Kazuha allows himself to smile.

Oh, who is he kidding?

“Of course.”

As long as they are together, there will be no rainclouds.

“That’s lovely! Oooh, I’m rather excited—but wait, we must eat first! I overheard some people talking about a restaurant, let’s go!” [Name] claps before darting into the crowd.

Kazuha buzzes in shock, hurrying after her with a call of, “Nee-san!”

Just a reviving bond, a pleasant journey…

“I understand your eagerness, but please do not rush so suddenly,” the samurai sighs, much to [Name]’s giggles.

“My bad, but! It seems like we found what we’re looking for. Shall we?”

The older Kaedehara begins to amble through the sea of people again and Kazuha follows, his fingers pinching the ends of his sister’s sleeve.

... And a loving home.

a/n: at long last... the alternate ending.. A HAPPY ENDING! FOR KAZUHA AND NEE-SAN .·´¯`(>▂<)´¯`·.

@cherryflushz @e7t3 @scarlet-halos @lordbugs @nebulaera @annoying-and-upset @hanniejji @applepi1415 @tjjjrsj @azirajane @uwu-dreams @yvechu @hey-comrade-hold-stil @limelightsuperhero

𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭'𝐬 𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬

currently thinking about: domesticated Bakugou

he’s exhausted, bone tired, as he limps into his apartment, shedding his hero costume bit by bit by the front door and dropping it in a pile by his boots.

he yawns, loud like an adult lion, and throws his arms overhead to stretch out his tired sore muscles. he lumbers towards the bathroom to shower, not for pleasure, but because he stinks to high heaven like sweat from the day. if he could stand it, he’d skip the shower and head straight to bed, but one whiff of himself has him stepping behind the glass shower pane. his shower is long, running the water until it’s cold because his aching muscles need the TLC, then he steps out and sweeps a towel around his waist, laying low on his toned hips.

he heads for his bedroom, swinging open the door when he finds your curled up figure in his bed. he’s surprised at first. he almost forget he gave you a key to his place a couple weeks back- it was a huge step in your guys relationship, one that made bakugou’s heart swell. but, he wasn’t disappointed to see you, looking all cute in his bed, tucked so neatly underneath the covers, snoring quietly.

he dressed for bed, not wanting to miss another moment without you in his arms, because bakugou was nothing but soft for you. he slid in next to you, wrapping his heavy arms around your waist and tugging you into his broad chest.

you stirred from your sleep and turned in his arms to face him after feeling his familiar warmth engulf you. you pressed your face into chest, breathing him in for a moment, before looking up at him.

“when’d you get home?” your voice is soft and tender with sleep.

“a bit ago,” he replies with the same tenderness.

“missed you,” you say in earnest, snuggling impossibly closer to him. you had tried to wait up for him, but had fallen asleep instead.

“missed you too, puddin’,” he presses the softest kiss to your hairline.

“how was your day?” you’re so tired your words are slurring.

“tiring, damn villains couldn’t take the day off,” he retorts and you giggle.

“glad your okay,” you tell him, reaching up to peck his lips in a chaste kiss.

“yeah.”

there’s a mellow pause, one that you two sit comfortably in until bakugou hears your gentle snores once more, puffs of warm air fanning against his bare chest. he looks down to see that you’ve fallen back asleep, his precious puddin’.

“night puddin’,” he whispers, pressing a longing kiss to your forehead, before closing his eyes and trying for sleep himself.