[ He's allowing her to hold his hand the entire day!! Her breath shakes when she asks the question, absolutely in disbelief that her request would be granted. It might seem like a tiny and silly request, and for them to have been dating for almost two years now, it doesn't even need to be asked! But Ayaka does, because she doesn't ever like asking Cloud for anything... Only sometimes, on very special occasions! ]
That sounds fair to me. And you can even take breaks, if you like.
[ So really not the whole day, after all! But Ayaka would still want to be close, anyway. If he does decide to take a break, she will just have to hug him and cling to him until his hands are well-rested and can hold her again.
He's painted a very happy smile on her face, though. And as she takes a bite of the chicken, she hums a little tune to show her satisfaction. ]
I don't think I could ever grow tired of holding your hand. [ ///// ] When we held hands for the first time... it felt natural. At least, to me. We had sashimi and matcha, then.
[ She was feeling dizzy and they were full from tea and sushi. Cloud let her rest on him, and took her hand. And as she thinks about it now, they were in their own corner, the warm and cosy ambiance in the tea house, and everyone else just felt like they were background noise. It makes her want to move closer to Cloud now, inching so subtly until he notices or gives her attention. If he does so much as look at her, she takes it as approval and moves closer to him again until she can lean on him. ]
It is a pity... I wonder what your matcha tasted like.
[ Cloud wasn't anticipating such a palpable response from his girlfriend when she gets the signal for an all-day handholding party with her beau. It's a tiny, silly, unique request that only Kamisato Ayaka could have made. But more importantly, it was a tiny, silly, unique request that only Cloud Strife could have fulfilled. He laughs softly as he finishes off his cup of tea, going back for more from the pan de mie bento box. Smooth, creamy egg... He could eat every single one in here if he really wanted to; knowing that they all came from Ayaka? How could he not? But before he can take a bite, he answers her in kind, bite up to his mouth with a content smile as he looks back over to her. ]
We'll see. [ About taking breaks. ] I think I like the challenge of never letting go.
[ Om. So good! ]
[ Ayaka wanting to always be close to him worked perfectly fine by him. Even when he still housed the memories of an 'Ex-SOLDIER Gone Mercenary', bodyguard work just came with the territory. Especially where a particular flower girl was involved. He never really noticed it beforeโ how often he would protectively take someone's hand or hold them close when danger was abound. But now that he's actively held Ayaka's hand through the best and worst of times, he's become all too aware. More importantly, when it came to the Shirasagi Himegimi, he's become all the more willing to give her exactly what she wants.
When she hums a little satisfactory tune, he blinks with a broader sense of wonder in his rich blue hues as he thinks he recognizes the gentle melody in her throat. ]
Didn't think I was so used to it back then either, but... [ If he was being honest? Well before the two of them even started to date, and they'd spent their late afternoon celebrating landing their impromptu (and successful) roles, the world around them practically faded into the ether. What was infused with naki weed was so subtle that instead of leaving their hearts burning and yearning, the two found solace in one another as they rested. They lost all sense of time until it was nearly time for the last train to leave the station. It was in the warmth of one another that they managed to stay true to themselves...
And Cloud had learned a new side of himself long before he found memories that were truly his own. He liked being close to her that way. Even if he wasn't the best at expressing it at the time, his body language spoke volumes for him.
Just as it was doing so now, his eyes catching hers as she shimmies oh-so-subtly towards him. There's his star's shining cue, her beau sitting more upright on the picnic mat as he slides his hand around her back when she rests against him. Reminisce of simpler times. Of a day that was forever engrained into his heart with many othersโ Ayaka at the core of everything. He half-hugs her against his side, looking down at her as he's content in taking a break from their snacks to just...let it all sink in.
And he takes another tempered, soft breath. Free. Lighter. The lightest he's felt in a very long time, and it's all due to the silken-dressed Kamisato he has the fortune of keeping safe and sound by his side. ]
Mine? [ If only he knew where the end of his scavenger hunt would take him... He might have just prepared a thermos of his own. Despite his missteps...he was still given his approval. His smile softens some more, his hold on her becoming firmer in the moment as his answer is a simple one. ] I'll make it again.
It was something I failed to neglect... I should have asked for you to bring me some tea, as well.
[ But despite how she encountered a flaw in her plan, she still thinks it went well! And she laughs about it now, considering she had Cloud make tea because she knew he was watching her whenever she prepared tea for him. ]
The art of tea ceremony was often performed by women of Inazuma, but of course, over time, tradition has opened its doors, and even some men have begun to learn it.
[ The few seconds of resting on him is done. She does not move away completely, but she does reach for her own cup to take a sip of it. The tea is warm, and adds to the comfort that he brings her by being at her side. It ignites her appetite now that she's finally had a sip, and she'll take a few more sashimi pieces and leave the rest for her beau. ]
It would take years to master the art of tea ceremony, but... you do not need to be one in order to make tea. It would be my honour to try a freshly made cup of your matcha, my love.
Guess that just means you get a fresh cup next time.
[ So despite her self-acclaimed misstep, in Cloud's eyes, this was still a win for them both. Her laughter sends a gentle, calming thrum through his chest. And if they weren't surrounded by delectable goodies she's lovingly prepared (not to mention the gift she has stowed on the mat with them), he'd have been tempted to draw her even closer against him. Draw her down to lie on her back with him, watch the stars and start checking off more constellations they recognized or created new ones to call their own. It wasn't one of the tasks, but being here at the observatory reminded him of the end of that cherished dayโ leaping straight up to the roof with ease with his white heron princess in tow, so that they had unabated access to the skies above. ]
I'm a quick learner. [ A beat. ] Even quicker with a good teacher.
[ And who, oh who, could he be referring to? Smiling knowingly, they share in the rest of their meal, while he provides idle comments about the quality of the food. The sandwiches were terrific, the chicken was succulent and juicy, and the quality of the sashimi was top notch. Though, while he spoke in jest about learning quickly about the art of tea ceremony, he still wants to make it clear as he polishes off his cup of tea.
She would be honoured to try freshly made matcha by her love. Then... ]
I'll have all the time in the world to get it right for you. [ In Inazuma, this world or the next...but at the end of his journey, where Cloud is determined to see everything end, ] However many years it takes.
[ And she'll get to try them all. ]
So... [ Because she's the most interesting thing at this picnic, but he has to finally ask, eyes flitting to the present, ] What's in that box?
[ It is so very exciting. Cloud is indulging her yet again, and now she is very excited to try his own version of matcha. She has a feeling it would taste so much better than any cup she could ever makeโ that any master of tea could ever make. Biased or not, she just knows what Cloud is capable of, and how talented he is when he puts his heart and mind into certain things.
For the rest of their dinner, they continue chatting about their day. Ayaka tells him of some of the other people she's spoken to just to make today happen, eventually confirming that she has rented the observatory for tonight. Fortunately, the observatory is closed on Wednesdays for some odd reason, so there wasn't any worry of people coming to the tower only to be disappointed that they can't enter in the end.
By the time they're done, in time for when Cloud would receive his chocolates for Valentine's day, he brings attention to the other box. The big black one with the golden ribbon on it. The one that does not, in fact, contain food. ]
Oh! Hehe... Are you eager to open it? [ That answers that. His present (1 out of the many ones she's given him today, anyway...) is inside! Much as she wants Cloud to don the Kamisato colours already, she kept it a bit subtle this time and asked the tailor for a fabric that had camellias or sakuras on it.
And since he asked, she does reach for the large box now, placing it in front of him. ] Then, please accept my present for you.
[ Cloud asked! It'd be strange of him if he queried the bigger black box, adorned in gold ribbon as it was, only to just tell himself he'll leave it be. If Ayaka had told him to wait, he would have done exactly that, too. But when she reaches for the large box and places it in front of him, he starts blushing again. Being on the receiving end of gifts like this...he's reminded of what she said to him the night that he confessed his full feelings for her.
Every day. Every birthday.
This was Valentine's Day, but the sentiment still resonates strongly with him all the same. It's no contest, but it only sparks his own determination furthermore for next month. Each day had to be special, but that? That was going to be where he hoped the real fireworks popped. So he gingerly tugs at the beautiful ribbon, mindful not to just go yanking it despite the anticipation welling in his chest. What could it be? It doesn't feel heavy, nor does it feel light either. Just right...
When he opens it, his eyes widen while his lips part unbeknownst to him. A silent breath as he just...pauses for a moment. Beneath the thin gift paper protecting it inside the box that he peels away, is the neatly folded layers of pristine fabrics that he instinctively takes by the shoulders first as he lifts the first article up and out. He won't pull out the entire thing up here.
Just the: ]
A Haori...
[ The cadence of his voice is reflective, holding it like it was the most fragile and delicate piece he'd ever had. And because it came from Ayaka...
Of course it deserved that care. ]
And Hakama too? [ He sounds more excited now, lowering the top he'd halfway unfolded to get a better look at to look back at Ayaka. ] It's a whole outfit in here?
[ For him? He's no stranger to wearing Nipponese and Inazuman-inspired garb, but it's been so long since he's had something this personal. Not when a lot of his old clothes were left behind in the past world. ]
[ While the surprise for today, the tasks that Cloud had to do, were planned in three weeks, this particular present has been in the works for months now. Ayaka had been secretly taking Cloud's measurements, bringing some of his more fitting clothes to the tailor so they could figure out the measurements for this outfit. She wanted this to be perfectโ formal wear for Cloud, even though he might not have much of a reason to wear it here to begin with.
Ayaka's thoughts were more so they could match.
And he's always seemed to like the fashion in Nippon, even though it isn't what he's used to back home. Not to mention, he does look good in Inazuman-style garb.
But as Cloud opens his present, brings out one of the pieces in the set, her heart starts racing in a way that brings her back to when she first got him a present. When she thought of him while shopping for books, so she purchased one about flower meanings. He's always in her thoughts, and she always just wants him to indulge in what interests him. Ayaka wants to support him in anything and everything that he likes, wants to do, wants to wear, wants to try. Because of that, she wishes he likes her present, that she chose well and that she wasn't being presumptuous by reading into what she thinks he likes. ]
A- Ah, well, [ He sounds excited, but she cannot be too sure despite how expressive he seems to be with his eyes. She wants him to say it.
Her hands ball into fists on her lap as she tenses up. ] I- I do not recall you having anything like it yet, and I thought you might like to have more clothing that is closer to Inazuman styles.
We can... wear something similar together, if we attend some formal event or occasion.
[ Not even a second after Ayaka expresses her hopes that he likes it... ]
I love it.
[ Three simple words. But...he can afford to give her a little more, couldn't he? ]
S'like you brought back a little piece of what we used to have.
[ Back in Nippon. How they would find themselves matching. How he found his own personalized yukata at the last minute upon chasing her to Nara that fateful, starry night. And for now, knowing that it wasn't practical to bring it all out up here, and because he wants to move back a little closer to her once more, he places the lid back on the box with his Inazuman garb inside. ]
[ Delighted, grateful, absolutely thrilled. Her voice shakes ever so slightly upon hearing her beau's words. If he loves it, then it means she did a great job in deciding on this gift for him.
And with each day that he allows her to be with him, she hopes to give him more presents to remember. Small or big, simple or absolutely grand, all she really wants is to shower Cloud with all the love she has in her heart. Every day that she wakes up though, she becomes more and more in love with him, so there really won't be an end to it all. ]
Oh! And because it is Valentine's day, and it is a must that you receive chocolate, I made some mochi for dessert.
[ It isn't quite the highlight of their date though, considering how Cloud isn't much of a sweets guy. She brings out yet another box from the basket where she kept all their food. Inside are bite sized pieces of chocolate truffle mochi, covered in cocoa with a gooey centre. These were a lot easier to make compared to the black sesame ones, but it's also partly due to the size.
[ He hums in contentment when he sees her spirits immediately lift higher once more. Cloud was never the type to start gushing over every little thing. Palpable excitement despite the fact he's become a lighter person over the years? That was more Zack's MO. Her love for him was contagious; how could he not want to move the stars if need be so he can keep looking at the brightest one of them all? It's...a little embarrassing to think about. Just how deeply he's fallen for her and the lengths he's gone for a scavenger hunt on Valentine's Day.
But that embarrassment also gives way to further excitement. Excitement that carries with them into her next gift. He'd told Ayaka how he found a box of chocolates on the way to Thoma's place; maybe it was something that her brother and him could enjoy together later! But every letter, every instruction, every utterance of guidance was taken to heart. She won't have to worry about him making attempts to skip details. Not with a day like today especially.
Pushing the box with his new outfit further away, he cants his head curiously when she brings out the little chocolate mochi pieces. Cloud blinks... ]
You made these too?
[ Everything here, Cloud. It almost makes him wish that he'd started taking cooking and baking more seriously now that he wasn't fighting all the time. But he doesn't feel guilty anymore. He doesn't feel like what he's giving her isn't enough. Because he's never going to stop trying to one-up himself from one year to the next. That much he can tell himself as he anticipates what's coming next, fluster in his cheeks and all as he sighs through his nose. ]
Ah...
[ He takes the little bite-sized chocolate truffle mochi...but rather than bite into it right away, he rolls it a little further back on his tongue, holding it there behind sealed lips. He can already taste the cocoa in his mouth without even squishing down on it, but before he bites, his hand slides up into Ayaka's freed one, holding it in place so he can can gently brush the back of her fingers with a kiss. Just a silent thank you before he finally breaks the piece in his mouth, letting the gooey center out as he hums softly in approval.
He still hasn't let go of her hand. ]
Edited (done forgetting words) Date: 2024-02-18 02:01 am (UTC)
Hehe... I am getting better at making all kinds of things, aren't I? It is because you inspire me to be better, Cloud.
[ She says that so innocently, because she isn't trying to gas him up or anything. He really is her inspiration, he is what motivates her to become better, because all of the things she learns, she wishes to show him in the end. Cooking all kinds of meals for him, making him dessert... it feels romantic. Whenever she packs him a lunch for work, or when he goes traveling to do quests, it feels amazing. She has a purpose that isn't just serving her nation and her people, but she has a purpose as Kamisato Ayaka.
Valentine's day is all about showering Cloud with love, but she feels so giddy and happy that today may as well be celebrating her, as well. ]
It should not be too sweet, so I hope you'll like it, andโ [ Oh! ///// He just kissed the back of her hand. It isn't the most intimate thing, but it certainly sends her heart racing after making it stop for a second.
Her outfit conceals a lot of her skin, but she definitely has goosebumps all over her arms now, thanks to him. While she's far too flustered to look him in the eye now, she does give his hand a squeeze. ]
[ It's exactly because he knows she wasn't the type to gas someone up for no reason that her support makes his heart swing for her that much more. Cloud wasn't your traditional "swooning" type; most of his reactions were best preserved in the wonder of his eyes, so expressive whether he was happy, angry, flustered... She was his motivation. From the day they met as friends, to the chance he took on chasing her to Nara on an impromptu trip, all the way to the end of another world for her. It's through letters that he's been able to better express himself when words aloud fail him, but even that was starting to grow easier for him. No one else had to know or hear the words he'd let fall from his lips for her. Not when they were solely for her ears alone.
Cloud behaves himself, reins himself back long enough for her on this special day that Ayaka can lavish him with the love and attention she feels he deserves. But at his core, he already knows; this was a day for them both. Everything he did was for her, after all.
His kiss to the back of her hand catches her by surprise, and as he relishes the treat she's given him before swallowing, that hasn't stopped the heavier-lidded gaze of intent he carries on her. Like Cloud felt satisfied knowing that she had to look away with that stunt. ]
[ She will need her hand back for that "one more", so she is very careful as she pulls her hand away. Gentle and slow, in case Cloud changes his mind and wishes to keep holding her hand. Her other is holding the little container for the chocolates, after all.
If Cloud does let her go, she takes yet another piece of mochi. During those couple of seconds she picked one up, she was really planning on feeding Cloud with it again. With her hand. But then she gets a bright (???) idea of putting the piece between her teeth. Only then does she lean in.
It is just the two of them. This is absolutely silly, but... if Cloud will indulge her, then this will be the first and last time she will pull a stunt like this. ]
[ Of course Cloud rescinds it; if he were being completely truthful, he would have skipped right to kissing her again. He wouldn't have been ready to let go of her hand yet, not after she made such an honest request for White Day. But he also wants to take care in every part of her gift today. The letters, the meaning behind the various orders given to Weapons HQ and the Theatre, gaining Thoma's approval in the art of Tea Ceremony, a night beneath the stars of Coldreach and everything she's brought to this picnic...
One chocolate was too cheap to accept. He wants one more. Or however many she wishes to feed him as he patiently waits for her, thinking that she'll pluck one between her fingers and pop it right in his mouth once more. Only... ]
?
[ She gently tucks it between her teeth. Was she going to eat one for herself first? That's fine by him butโ ]
Ah... [ Cloud can see where this is going. And for the first time since getting up here? Now his cheeks sting. ///// ] ...
[ But...who was he to deny her? Who was he to deny himself? Sighing through his nose, albeit softer, he leans in to meet her halfway. But he can't just take it from her straight on. So Ayaka will have her beau tilting his head for her this time, so that their noses don't go bumping together... ]
[ Ayaka would have been fine if Cloud rejected it, but he doesn't and it's great!!! How far can she have him try all sorts of things with her until he says no, she wonders...
Oh, but he isn't... pulling away. Ayaka isn't sure if she should just stay there??? But she does anyway, their lips still pressed together. Whatever has happened to the mochi, Ayaka does not know. She'll enjoy this kiss instead, she'll focus on the feeling of his lips tasting like cocoa powder, close her eyes and just melt into it...
It feels like it's been so long since she last kissed him properly. The reality of it is that they kissed just before they started dinner, but it still feels like it's been ages, anyway. This moment right here feels like their first kiss in such a long time. Surely nothing will go wrong, right? ]
[ Were their relationship still young, or she hadn't staked her claim of his heart at all, Ayaka would have been met with a myriad of resistances. Resistances that, even still, could have crumbled for her anyway. That's just who Cloud was, keeping a tough appearance on the surface only for that glass to be transparent for the right person. Only now, on this Valentine's Day, for a girl he's moved cities (worlds) for, there were no walls to be found. At this point, anything she could have asked for, he would have given her. Anything less and he wasn't being a good beau for her.
She's...everything he could have wanted and never realized until he was lucky to have her. It fuels everything he does for herโ fuels the way in which he lets the taste of cocoa powder on his brush over her lips. As if kissing her couldn't get any sweeter. When he tries to sweep his lips against hers once more, parted slightly but not making any bids to deepen it yet- ]
Mn- [ Ah it's. On his tongue still. Whoops. Before he can just. Give that back to her he'll just draw back abruptly. Sighing through his nose, an apologetic little smile crosses his lips. ] Sorry.
[ And with that, chew through the little bite once, adding, ]
Mochi.
[ Sorry, Ayaka. He wasn't so sure that accidentally giving back your treat was the most romantic thing. But when Cloud does finish it, biting back the urge to chuckle, he's back to closing what little distance is left between them. ]
[ Honestly? Ayaka is having the time of her life right now. Being able to have somebody to celebrate such a romantic holiday is already a gift, but Cloud not being resistant to anything has been such a treat.
She's giggling when he stops kissing her, pulling away slightly to apologise. So he hadn't swallowed the mochi yet, then! That's okay. She can wait before kissing him again. They have all the time in the world.
And so, she waits. She sees him chew... chew... swallow?
That's her signal! She leans in just in time as he closes the distance between them once more. With that, the rest of the world fades away, and it just becomes a young girl all alone with the love of her life, having a picnic together under a sea of stars shining brightly.
It feels so right, like this, to have his lips on hers. The night is still young, but if they ended their date like this, Ayaka would have no complaints whatsoever. She's so happy at this time, and with no threats of interruption anymore, she leans in a little closer, her free hand resting on his lap instead of on the mat. ]
[ What's a day or three out of the year? ...even if he would need to mentally pep himself up to tell himself that he can do all of this. And was Ayaka knows, when Cloud does set his mind on something, he commits. Lucky her, prep or none, he actually wants to do these things with her.
Her giggle is like a remedy for his nerves, and he's right back to it. Even if he's awkward to begin with in leaning back in, there's something boyish in how he eagerly wants to get back to kissing her. It was too good to stop so early, and the young couple were practically brimming with touch energy that they were never in need of a top-up. The world fades, and it's only the brightest star in front of him that he can see before he closes his eyes.
He slides his legs out from underneath him, hand bracing him at Ayaka's side while her hand finds purchase on his lap. Just a little push. Embrace this happiness. The night is still young, but he's not keen on letting it end either. Cloud's solace was knowing that he'd have her tomorrow morning to look at, but if he keep this halcyon day of memory lane going just a little longer...
One kiss. A sweep of his lips against hers. He tastes like fresh cocoa powder, and she tastes like traces of it from what she kept tucked between her lips before...and beyond that as he deepens the kiss? She's every bit the girl that he committed to memory on his tongue. Just a single deepened kiss with her threatens to crack a spark over the kindling once more, droplets of fuel that would see these two flare up. But he doesn't let it happen. He wants to preserve this longer.
Don't let this night end yet. And as he smiles against her lips, an impulse guides him as he speaks up between slow kisses. ]
Hey...
[ Just as he was all eyes on her. All ears, Ayaka, for this wild thought. ]
Wanna go to Frostreign tonight? [ His free hand drifts between them, not to take her hand out of his lap, but to rest his atop hers. Another kiss, before she can fully answer him...one that moves closer to the corner of her mouth like he's meaning to take this trail somewhere. ] We'll buy clothes there.
[ Amenities, everything they could need instead of teleporting all the way back to Sunwaning. They meant to leave tomorrow. But they're already so close... Just as close as Cloud's lips were to dipping into her neck, as soft as before. No biting. No marking. No sucking. ]
[ Her eyes flitter open ever so slightly when he calls his attention. She can barely focus when she doesn't pull away, the lack of distance between the two of them allowing her to breathe him in.
Ayaka never really thought of what would happen tonight beyond surprising Cloud one after the other. She didn't consider how he might react beyond accepting the presents given to him. Kisses, handholds, hugging her, they're all wishes, but if Cloud didn't give those to her tonight on this date, then she would be the one to give it all to him. And so, when he kisses her, tells her to change their plans and just go to Frostreign tonight instead, it surprises her.
This wasn't in her plans at all... Even when she tries to predict what Cloud might want to do, this wasn't in any of her guesses. And it would seem that she can't read his mind all the time, after all. ]
Eh? But...
[ They'll buy clothes there... His lips are on the corner of her mouth. His hand, so warm and heavy compared to hers, resting on her own. How soft his voice sounds at this time, so inviting... if she knew any better, Cloud could hypnotise with the sound of his voice and with his words.
Her eyes close again as she swallows, just in time for his lips to trail down to her neck. There's no way she could say no... ]
[ The sound of his lips sweeping, teetering on suckling but not daring leave a mark, is so loud as he follows the tremor in her voice. Places a little more pressure on her hand in his, until he can maneuver it just a little bit... Just enough so that his fingers can wedge snug between hers. ]
And we're already right there. [ It may be nighttime, but... ] We've got enough for tonight. We'll go out tomorrow.
[ Yeah, she should have predicted that this would happen. He left his scooter back at home, using the teleporters all the way out here. He has an excess in funds. All of which he wouldn't mind spending on them this getaway. Letter after letter after letter...heartfelt memory after heartfelt memory...
Then he breathes again, kisses dipping lower only to be stopped by the collar of her kimono. But that's fine. ]
[ How could Ayaka predict such a reaction when she's never witnessed anything like it before? Cloud is usually very tempered, the voice of reason when she's the one getting too carried away with her requests and whims. Sure, there may have been instances in the past, like when he was affected by the moon, or it was the month of love, but while those were all his own choices, they were also influenced by something more.
But tonight, it is all Cloud. It's just him making this request, making his presence known by slipping his fingers in between her own. The goosebumps have even made their way to her neck now, but it's him saying "please", the need in his voice for his wish to come true that gets her.
It's like electricity passes through her and she shudders from it, squeezing his hand tighter in turn. She wasn't going to say no, but this only made her say yes sooner. ]
Mm... [ That was both a sound of agreement and a whimper. ] We'll- We'll go to Frostreign early...
[ Tonight, she means. She'll have to send a message to Ayato that she won't be coming home tonight. Oh dear... Hopefully he won't judge too hard. It's all Cloud's fault.
That does... make her wonder, though. Of course she'll let Cloud call the shots, since it is a day to celebrate him. She only inches closer to him to rest on him, but he's free to continue kissing her all over however he wants. Even if it does make Ayaka squirm in her seat. ]
[ The man that woke up in the land of Nippon and the individual he's become today? It's less that Cloud completely changed so much as he was given an open door to freely walk through. For the first time, it felt like he had a choice. Even if it was a choice that was beyond one in a million. A life he never should have been able to call his own when it was with his fingers weaving over Ayaka's like this. There was no sway of the Youkai to urge him to take and give whatever he wanted this time. Or a moonless night that yielded way to the beast neither one of them would soon forget.
No.
If Cloud was going to tryโ really try, than he was going to make sure he did this right. No matter how much time they have left, whether they defy fate and see themselves through to the very end, or he's forced to take the longer journey back home to her, chasing that little whimper she lets out when she agrees to Frostreign is one of the many reasons he can do this. That he'll never stop surrendering all of his heart to her.
Ayaka once told him that she couldn't. That she couldn't let him have all of her after all. But, the more he laid in bed at night while they hurt, and thought about it all... She was telling the truth, and yet she was lying to herself all at once; that's what Cloud felt. Because he has the memory of what it felt like to have all of her. He'll hold that memory in his heart, and use it to carry him to the end of that wish he made in her name.
Would she be able to feel the way he smiles against her skin? The hum of approval and the softer sigh of relief that washes against lightly shimmering skin where he applied open-mouthed kisses? This was getting him warm under his collar, but nothing so heavy and yearning that he'd lose sense of where they were. He does grant Ayaka some reprieve when he draws away from the crook of her neck where he'd been kissing her. With her resting against him, as he shifts more upright, he half-embraces her with his free arm down the small of her back.
He's close to her ear now, answering her: ]
Pretty soon.
[ If he gets distracted by kissing her a few more times, he can't be at fault. His hand squeezes hers, gently, almost rhythmically as he kisses just in front of her ear, drawing the scent of her hair and just how easy it might have been to lay her down beneath the stars with him after all. But it's just like he said to her before.
He'll never stop wanting her. There's just a time and a place.
And with a deep breath in through his nose, and a hummed sigh back out, he finally draws away for real, sitting back enough so he can get a good look at her and how good she looked in that kimono tonight. But... ]
Just a sec.
[ Unraveling the navy scarf around his neck, if she'll let him, he plans on carefully slipping it around the back of hers, weaving it once around the front as he keeps a gentle hold of the ends with a smile. ]
There. [ A beat. ] A little chillier where we're headed.
[ Ayaka once thought that she could give him everything. For the longest time, she'd believed it to be so. She lived a life knowing that everything she has was for Cloud to take, whether he asked for it or not. There is nothing Ayaka could hold against him. Once, she even told him she would do anything for him, and she certainly wasn't lying then.
Presented with two doors and with a choice to make, however, she realised what her capabilities were, what the limits to her loyalty was. And it's been some time since she asked for Cloud's forgiveness and also the forgiveness of her brother's, and she's moved past it. The pain will remain though, even if she does not think about it all that often anymore. If the choice presents itself again, despite Cloud's own words, despite what Ayato said about how she should choose Cloud if it means her own safety, she still would not be able to do so.
The choice, the pain, and the heartache are all far away from her mind right now though. There is no need to dwell on it with all the promises she and Cloud have made to one another. The stars shine bright above them, perhaps even brighter than when they were here last, and the love they have for one another is stronger than ever.
Cloud keeps spoiling her, kissing her to the point where she's gotten lightheaded already. Anything he tells her at this point, she would say yes to. It's why she doesn't try to move away from his hold or to shy away from all the kisses he's giving her, wherever they may be. Even if it makes her breath so shaky, and even if it makes her heart race like crazy. ]
Ah...
[ It is rather delayed when she realises she has a scarf around her neck, now. Looking down and feeling the thick cloth around her neck and touching her chin, she reaches for it with both her hands to hold it and feel if it's real. They would be going to Frostreign, so it only makes sense to cover up... Her eyes meet his again, and her face reflects his expression when she smiles softly. ]
I will hold your hand and keep you warm, then.
[ Especially since he is scarfless now!
She tugs on the scarf a little more, pushing it closer to her so she can nuzzle her cheek against one side. ]
It is not quite the same... but it is like your arms are wrapped around me like this.
[ Only letting go once she's registered that the thick cloth is snug around her neck, he was going to find it challenging to let this sight out of his mind's eye. It wasn't huge or anything on her, but the visual of her wrapped up in it, hands reaching up to hold and feel it around her; she looks so small in it anyway. Even if the navy blue clashed with her kimono, it still looks...right on herโ like she was every bit the cute, princess-like girl he carried away with him. ]
Good. [ A beat. ] A warm-up for White Day.
[ Because if he can help it, he wasn't going to let her go until they needed to. Maybe while checking in. ...they both have a free hand.
It's not quite the same as having his arms around her. And he could very well still do that right here and now. But Cloud knew that if he did...they might not ever leave the top of this observatory tonight. It wasn't a bad thought to have, if only because he was still with her. He'd chased her to the end of a journey through memory lane, and now that he had her? It almost didn't matter where they were or when they went.
That's the fantasy they're living in now. But he wants to keep this going for as long as possible. So... ]
Maybe not as soft, [ Definitely not as soft. But as he leans in, fingers threading through the front of her hime cut hair, ] but you'll have mine around you more tonight.
[ Capped with a feather's brush of his lips to her forehead as he closes his eyes... One. Two. Breath, Cloud. Alright.
He pulls back one last time, shuffling on his knees until they have just a little more space. She's always made him feel comfortable, even when he was working his way through bouts of embarrassment and feeling shy. But tonight? He was confident. Driven. And he'll carry this feeling all the way into Frostreign with her. ]
Okay. Let's get packed up.
[ If she has a knapsack or anything to make things easier, he'll even carry that for her too! If she's ready, so is he. ]
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timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2024-02-15 04:13 pm (UTC)[ He's allowing her to hold his hand the entire day!! Her breath shakes when she asks the question, absolutely in disbelief that her request would be granted. It might seem like a tiny and silly request, and for them to have been dating for almost two years now, it doesn't even need to be asked! But Ayaka does, because she doesn't ever like asking Cloud for anything... Only sometimes, on very special occasions! ]
That sounds fair to me. And you can even take breaks, if you like.
[ So really not the whole day, after all! But Ayaka would still want to be close, anyway. If he does decide to take a break, she will just have to hug him and cling to him until his hands are well-rested and can hold her again.
He's painted a very happy smile on her face, though. And as she takes a bite of the chicken, she hums a little tune to show her satisfaction. ]
I don't think I could ever grow tired of holding your hand. [ ///// ] When we held hands for the first time... it felt natural. At least, to me. We had sashimi and matcha, then.
[ She was feeling dizzy and they were full from tea and sushi. Cloud let her rest on him, and took her hand. And as she thinks about it now, they were in their own corner, the warm and cosy ambiance in the tea house, and everyone else just felt like they were background noise. It makes her want to move closer to Cloud now, inching so subtly until he notices or gives her attention. If he does so much as look at her, she takes it as approval and moves closer to him again until she can lean on him. ]
It is a pity... I wonder what your matcha tasted like.
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Date: 2024-02-16 04:57 am (UTC)We'll see. [ About taking breaks. ] I think I like the challenge of never letting go.
[ Om. So good! ]
[ Ayaka wanting to always be close to him worked perfectly fine by him. Even when he still housed the memories of an 'Ex-SOLDIER Gone Mercenary', bodyguard work just came with the territory. Especially where a particular flower girl was involved. He never really noticed it beforeโ how often he would protectively take someone's hand or hold them close when danger was abound. But now that he's actively held Ayaka's hand through the best and worst of times, he's become all too aware. More importantly, when it came to the Shirasagi Himegimi, he's become all the more willing to give her exactly what she wants.
When she hums a little satisfactory tune, he blinks with a broader sense of wonder in his rich blue hues as he thinks he recognizes the gentle melody in her throat. ]
Didn't think I was so used to it back then either, but... [ If he was being honest? Well before the two of them even started to date, and they'd spent their late afternoon celebrating landing their impromptu (and successful) roles, the world around them practically faded into the ether. What was infused with naki weed was so subtle that instead of leaving their hearts burning and yearning, the two found solace in one another as they rested. They lost all sense of time until it was nearly time for the last train to leave the station. It was in the warmth of one another that they managed to stay true to themselves...
And Cloud had learned a new side of himself long before he found memories that were truly his own. He liked being close to her that way. Even if he wasn't the best at expressing it at the time, his body language spoke volumes for him.
Just as it was doing so now, his eyes catching hers as she shimmies oh-so-subtly towards him. There's his star's shining cue, her beau sitting more upright on the picnic mat as he slides his hand around her back when she rests against him. Reminisce of simpler times. Of a day that was forever engrained into his heart with many othersโ Ayaka at the core of everything. He half-hugs her against his side, looking down at her as he's content in taking a break from their snacks to just...let it all sink in.
And he takes another tempered, soft breath. Free. Lighter. The lightest he's felt in a very long time, and it's all due to the silken-dressed Kamisato he has the fortune of keeping safe and sound by his side. ]
Mine? [ If only he knew where the end of his scavenger hunt would take him... He might have just prepared a thermos of his own. Despite his missteps...he was still given his approval. His smile softens some more, his hold on her becoming firmer in the moment as his answer is a simple one. ] I'll make it again.
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Date: 2024-02-16 01:43 pm (UTC)[ But despite how she encountered a flaw in her plan, she still thinks it went well! And she laughs about it now, considering she had Cloud make tea because she knew he was watching her whenever she prepared tea for him. ]
The art of tea ceremony was often performed by women of Inazuma, but of course, over time, tradition has opened its doors, and even some men have begun to learn it.
[ The few seconds of resting on him is done. She does not move away completely, but she does reach for her own cup to take a sip of it. The tea is warm, and adds to the comfort that he brings her by being at her side. It ignites her appetite now that she's finally had a sip, and she'll take a few more sashimi pieces and leave the rest for her beau. ]
It would take years to master the art of tea ceremony, but... you do not need to be one in order to make tea. It would be my honour to try a freshly made cup of your matcha, my love.
no subject
Date: 2024-02-17 11:41 am (UTC)[ So despite her self-acclaimed misstep, in Cloud's eyes, this was still a win for them both. Her laughter sends a gentle, calming thrum through his chest. And if they weren't surrounded by delectable goodies she's lovingly prepared (not to mention the gift she has stowed on the mat with them), he'd have been tempted to draw her even closer against him. Draw her down to lie on her back with him, watch the stars and start checking off more constellations they recognized or created new ones to call their own. It wasn't one of the tasks, but being here at the observatory reminded him of the end of that cherished dayโ leaping straight up to the roof with ease with his white heron princess in tow, so that they had unabated access to the skies above. ]
I'm a quick learner. [ A beat. ] Even quicker with a good teacher.
[ And who, oh who, could he be referring to? Smiling knowingly, they share in the rest of their meal, while he provides idle comments about the quality of the food. The sandwiches were terrific, the chicken was succulent and juicy, and the quality of the sashimi was top notch. Though, while he spoke in jest about learning quickly about the art of tea ceremony, he still wants to make it clear as he polishes off his cup of tea.
She would be honoured to try freshly made matcha by her love. Then... ]
I'll have all the time in the world to get it right for you. [ In Inazuma, this world or the next...but at the end of his journey, where Cloud is determined to see everything end, ] However many years it takes.
[ And she'll get to try them all. ]
So... [ Because she's the most interesting thing at this picnic, but he has to finally ask, eyes flitting to the present, ] What's in that box?
no subject
Date: 2024-02-17 08:21 pm (UTC)For the rest of their dinner, they continue chatting about their day. Ayaka tells him of some of the other people she's spoken to just to make today happen, eventually confirming that she has rented the observatory for tonight. Fortunately, the observatory is closed on Wednesdays for some odd reason, so there wasn't any worry of people coming to the tower only to be disappointed that they can't enter in the end.
By the time they're done, in time for when Cloud would receive his chocolates for Valentine's day, he brings attention to the other box. The big black one with the golden ribbon on it. The one that does not, in fact, contain food. ]
Oh! Hehe... Are you eager to open it? [ That answers that. His present (1 out of the many ones she's given him today, anyway...) is inside! Much as she wants Cloud to don the Kamisato colours already, she kept it a bit subtle this time and asked the tailor for a fabric that had camellias or sakuras on it.
And since he asked, she does reach for the large box now, placing it in front of him. ] Then, please accept my present for you.
no subject
Date: 2024-02-18 12:40 am (UTC)[ Cloud asked! It'd be strange of him if he queried the bigger black box, adorned in gold ribbon as it was, only to just tell himself he'll leave it be. If Ayaka had told him to wait, he would have done exactly that, too. But when she reaches for the large box and places it in front of him, he starts blushing again. Being on the receiving end of gifts like this...he's reminded of what she said to him the night that he confessed his full feelings for her.
Every day. Every birthday.
This was Valentine's Day, but the sentiment still resonates strongly with him all the same. It's no contest, but it only sparks his own determination furthermore for next month. Each day had to be special, but that? That was going to be where he hoped the real fireworks popped. So he gingerly tugs at the beautiful ribbon, mindful not to just go yanking it despite the anticipation welling in his chest. What could it be? It doesn't feel heavy, nor does it feel light either. Just right...
When he opens it, his eyes widen while his lips part unbeknownst to him. A silent breath as he just...pauses for a moment. Beneath the thin gift paper protecting it inside the box that he peels away, is the neatly folded layers of pristine fabrics that he instinctively takes by the shoulders first as he lifts the first article up and out. He won't pull out the entire thing up here.
Just the: ]
A Haori...
[ The cadence of his voice is reflective, holding it like it was the most fragile and delicate piece he'd ever had. And because it came from Ayaka...
Of course it deserved that care. ]
And Hakama too? [ He sounds more excited now, lowering the top he'd halfway unfolded to get a better look at to look back at Ayaka. ] It's a whole outfit in here?
[ For him? He's no stranger to wearing Nipponese and Inazuman-inspired garb, but it's been so long since he's had something this personal. Not when a lot of his old clothes were left behind in the past world. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-18 01:06 am (UTC)Ayaka's thoughts were more so they could match.
And he's always seemed to like the fashion in Nippon, even though it isn't what he's used to back home. Not to mention, he does look good in Inazuman-style garb.
But as Cloud opens his present, brings out one of the pieces in the set, her heart starts racing in a way that brings her back to when she first got him a present. When she thought of him while shopping for books, so she purchased one about flower meanings. He's always in her thoughts, and she always just wants him to indulge in what interests him. Ayaka wants to support him in anything and everything that he likes, wants to do, wants to wear, wants to try. Because of that, she wishes he likes her present, that she chose well and that she wasn't being presumptuous by reading into what she thinks he likes. ]
A- Ah, well, [ He sounds excited, but she cannot be too sure despite how expressive he seems to be with his eyes. She wants him to say it.
Her hands ball into fists on her lap as she tenses up. ] I- I do not recall you having anything like it yet, and I thought you might like to have more clothing that is closer to Inazuman styles.
We can... wear something similar together, if we attend some formal event or occasion.
I hope you like it.
[ ._. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-18 01:17 am (UTC)I love it.
[ Three simple words. But...he can afford to give her a little more, couldn't he? ]
S'like you brought back a little piece of what we used to have.
[ Back in Nippon. How they would find themselves matching. How he found his own personalized yukata at the last minute upon chasing her to Nara that fateful, starry night. And for now, knowing that it wasn't practical to bring it all out up here, and because he wants to move back a little closer to her once more, he places the lid back on the box with his Inazuman garb inside. ]
Thank you. Ayaka.
no subject
Date: 2024-02-18 01:44 am (UTC)[ Delighted, grateful, absolutely thrilled. Her voice shakes ever so slightly upon hearing her beau's words. If he loves it, then it means she did a great job in deciding on this gift for him.
And with each day that he allows her to be with him, she hopes to give him more presents to remember. Small or big, simple or absolutely grand, all she really wants is to shower Cloud with all the love she has in her heart. Every day that she wakes up though, she becomes more and more in love with him, so there really won't be an end to it all. ]
Oh! And because it is Valentine's day, and it is a must that you receive chocolate, I made some mochi for dessert.
[ It isn't quite the highlight of their date though, considering how Cloud isn't much of a sweets guy. She brings out yet another box from the basket where she kept all their food. Inside are bite sized pieces of chocolate truffle mochi, covered in cocoa with a gooey centre. These were a lot easier to make compared to the black sesame ones, but it's also partly due to the size.
Yes, she is taking one again to feed him. ]
Say "ah", my love.
no subject
Date: 2024-02-18 01:59 am (UTC)But that embarrassment also gives way to further excitement. Excitement that carries with them into her next gift. He'd told Ayaka how he found a box of chocolates on the way to Thoma's place; maybe it was something that her brother and him could enjoy together later! But every letter, every instruction, every utterance of guidance was taken to heart. She won't have to worry about him making attempts to skip details. Not with a day like today especially.
Pushing the box with his new outfit further away, he cants his head curiously when she brings out the little chocolate mochi pieces. Cloud blinks... ]
You made these too?
[ Everything here, Cloud. It almost makes him wish that he'd started taking cooking and baking more seriously now that he wasn't fighting all the time. But he doesn't feel guilty anymore. He doesn't feel like what he's giving her isn't enough. Because he's never going to stop trying to one-up himself from one year to the next. That much he can tell himself as he anticipates what's coming next, fluster in his cheeks and all as he sighs through his nose. ]
Ah...
[ He takes the little bite-sized chocolate truffle mochi...but rather than bite into it right away, he rolls it a little further back on his tongue, holding it there behind sealed lips. He can already taste the cocoa in his mouth without even squishing down on it, but before he bites, his hand slides up into Ayaka's freed one, holding it in place so he can can gently brush the back of her fingers with a kiss. Just a silent thank you before he finally breaks the piece in his mouth, letting the gooey center out as he hums softly in approval.
He still hasn't let go of her hand. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-18 02:19 pm (UTC)[ She says that so innocently, because she isn't trying to gas him up or anything. He really is her inspiration, he is what motivates her to become better, because all of the things she learns, she wishes to show him in the end. Cooking all kinds of meals for him, making him dessert... it feels romantic. Whenever she packs him a lunch for work, or when he goes traveling to do quests, it feels amazing. She has a purpose that isn't just serving her nation and her people, but she has a purpose as Kamisato Ayaka.
Valentine's day is all about showering Cloud with love, but she feels so giddy and happy that today may as well be celebrating her, as well. ]
It should not be too sweet, so I hope you'll like it, andโ [ Oh! ///// He just kissed the back of her hand. It isn't the most intimate thing, but it certainly sends her heart racing after making it stop for a second.
Her outfit conceals a lot of her skin, but she definitely has goosebumps all over her arms now, thanks to him. While she's far too flustered to look him in the eye now, she does give his hand a squeeze. ]
A- Ah, um... Do you want more?
no subject
Date: 2024-02-19 01:59 am (UTC)Cloud behaves himself, reins himself back long enough for her on this special day that Ayaka can lavish him with the love and attention she feels he deserves. But at his core, he already knows; this was a day for them both. Everything he did was for her, after all.
His kiss to the back of her hand catches her by surprise, and as he relishes the treat she's given him before swallowing, that hasn't stopped the heavier-lidded gaze of intent he carries on her. Like Cloud felt satisfied knowing that she had to look away with that stunt. ]
Mm. [ Hey, Ayaka... ] One more.
[ He's still keeping his eyes on you. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-19 06:47 am (UTC)If Cloud does let her go, she takes yet another piece of mochi. During those couple of seconds she picked one up, she was really planning on feeding Cloud with it again. With her hand. But then she gets a bright (???) idea of putting the piece between her teeth. Only then does she lean in.
It is just the two of them. This is absolutely silly, but... if Cloud will indulge her, then this will be the first and last time she will pull a stunt like this. ]
1/2
Date: 2024-02-19 07:16 am (UTC)One chocolate was too cheap to accept. He wants one more. Or however many she wishes to feed him as he patiently waits for her, thinking that she'll pluck one between her fingers and pop it right in his mouth once more. Only... ]
?
[ She gently tucks it between her teeth. Was she going to eat one for herself first? That's fine by him butโ ]
Ah... [ Cloud can see where this is going. And for the first time since getting up here? Now his cheeks sting. ///// ] ...
[ But...who was he to deny her? Who was he to deny himself? Sighing through his nose, albeit softer, he leans in to meet her halfway. But he can't just take it from her straight on. So Ayaka will have her beau tilting his head for her this time, so that their noses don't go bumping together... ]
2/2
Date: 2024-02-19 07:21 am (UTC)...
[ He doesn't draw away. Instead, he kisses her properly this time. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-19 07:43 am (UTC)Oh, but he isn't... pulling away. Ayaka isn't sure if she should just stay there??? But she does anyway, their lips still pressed together. Whatever has happened to the mochi, Ayaka does not know. She'll enjoy this kiss instead, she'll focus on the feeling of his lips tasting like cocoa powder, close her eyes and just melt into it...
It feels like it's been so long since she last kissed him properly. The reality of it is that they kissed just before they started dinner, but it still feels like it's been ages, anyway. This moment right here feels like their first kiss in such a long time. Surely nothing will go wrong, right? ]
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Date: 2024-02-19 11:07 am (UTC)She's...everything he could have wanted and never realized until he was lucky to have her. It fuels everything he does for herโ fuels the way in which he lets the taste of cocoa powder on his brush over her lips. As if kissing her couldn't get any sweeter. When he tries to sweep his lips against hers once more, parted slightly but not making any bids to deepen it yet- ]
Mn- [ Ah it's. On his tongue still. Whoops. Before he can just. Give that back to her he'll just draw back abruptly. Sighing through his nose, an apologetic little smile crosses his lips. ] Sorry.
[ And with that, chew through the little bite once, adding, ]
Mochi.
[ Sorry, Ayaka. He wasn't so sure that accidentally giving back your treat was the most romantic thing. But when Cloud does finish it, biting back the urge to chuckle, he's back to closing what little distance is left between them. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-19 11:28 am (UTC)She's giggling when he stops kissing her, pulling away slightly to apologise. So he hadn't swallowed the mochi yet, then! That's okay. She can wait before kissing him again. They have all the time in the world.
And so, she waits. She sees him chew... chew... swallow?
That's her signal! She leans in just in time as he closes the distance between them once more. With that, the rest of the world fades away, and it just becomes a young girl all alone with the love of her life, having a picnic together under a sea of stars shining brightly.
It feels so right, like this, to have his lips on hers. The night is still young, but if they ended their date like this, Ayaka would have no complaints whatsoever. She's so happy at this time, and with no threats of interruption anymore, she leans in a little closer, her free hand resting on his lap instead of on the mat. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-19 07:46 pm (UTC)Her giggle is like a remedy for his nerves, and he's right back to it. Even if he's awkward to begin with in leaning back in, there's something boyish in how he eagerly wants to get back to kissing her. It was too good to stop so early, and the young couple were practically brimming with touch energy that they were never in need of a top-up. The world fades, and it's only the brightest star in front of him that he can see before he closes his eyes.
He slides his legs out from underneath him, hand bracing him at Ayaka's side while her hand finds purchase on his lap. Just a little push. Embrace this happiness. The night is still young, but he's not keen on letting it end either. Cloud's solace was knowing that he'd have her tomorrow morning to look at, but if he keep this halcyon day of memory lane going just a little longer...
One kiss. A sweep of his lips against hers. He tastes like fresh cocoa powder, and she tastes like traces of it from what she kept tucked between her lips before...and beyond that as he deepens the kiss? She's every bit the girl that he committed to memory on his tongue. Just a single deepened kiss with her threatens to crack a spark over the kindling once more, droplets of fuel that would see these two flare up. But he doesn't let it happen. He wants to preserve this longer.
Don't let this night end yet. And as he smiles against her lips, an impulse guides him as he speaks up between slow kisses. ]
Hey...
[ Just as he was all eyes on her. All ears, Ayaka, for this wild thought. ]
Wanna go to Frostreign tonight? [ His free hand drifts between them, not to take her hand out of his lap, but to rest his atop hers. Another kiss, before she can fully answer him...one that moves closer to the corner of her mouth like he's meaning to take this trail somewhere. ] We'll buy clothes there.
[ Amenities, everything they could need instead of teleporting all the way back to Sunwaning. They meant to leave tomorrow. But they're already so close... Just as close as Cloud's lips were to dipping into her neck, as soft as before. No biting. No marking. No sucking. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-20 01:03 am (UTC)Ayaka never really thought of what would happen tonight beyond surprising Cloud one after the other. She didn't consider how he might react beyond accepting the presents given to him. Kisses, handholds, hugging her, they're all wishes, but if Cloud didn't give those to her tonight on this date, then she would be the one to give it all to him. And so, when he kisses her, tells her to change their plans and just go to Frostreign tonight instead, it surprises her.
This wasn't in her plans at all... Even when she tries to predict what Cloud might want to do, this wasn't in any of her guesses. And it would seem that she can't read his mind all the time, after all. ]
Eh? But...
[ They'll buy clothes there... His lips are on the corner of her mouth. His hand, so warm and heavy compared to hers, resting on her own. How soft his voice sounds at this time, so inviting... if she knew any better, Cloud could hypnotise with the sound of his voice and with his words.
Her eyes close again as she swallows, just in time for his lips to trail down to her neck. There's no way she could say no... ]
A- Are you sure? But it's nighttime...
no subject
Date: 2024-02-20 01:49 am (UTC)And we're already right there. [ It may be nighttime, but... ] We've got enough for tonight. We'll go out tomorrow.
[ Yeah, she should have predicted that this would happen. He left his scooter back at home, using the teleporters all the way out here. He has an excess in funds. All of which he wouldn't mind spending on them this getaway. Letter after letter after letter...heartfelt memory after heartfelt memory...
Then he breathes again, kisses dipping lower only to be stopped by the collar of her kimono. But that's fine. ]
Please?
[ Pretty please. ]
no subject
Date: 2024-02-20 11:50 am (UTC)But tonight, it is all Cloud. It's just him making this request, making his presence known by slipping his fingers in between her own. The goosebumps have even made their way to her neck now, but it's him saying "please", the need in his voice for his wish to come true that gets her.
It's like electricity passes through her and she shudders from it, squeezing his hand tighter in turn. She wasn't going to say no, but this only made her say yes sooner. ]
Mm... [ That was both a sound of agreement and a whimper. ] We'll- We'll go to Frostreign early...
[ Tonight, she means. She'll have to send a message to Ayato that she won't be coming home tonight. Oh dear... Hopefully he won't judge too hard. It's all Cloud's fault.
That does... make her wonder, though. Of course she'll let Cloud call the shots, since it is a day to celebrate him. She only inches closer to him to rest on him, but he's free to continue kissing her all over however he wants. Even if it does make Ayaka squirm in her seat. ]
Are we leaving now?
no subject
Date: 2024-02-21 06:21 am (UTC)No.
If Cloud was going to tryโ really try, than he was going to make sure he did this right. No matter how much time they have left, whether they defy fate and see themselves through to the very end, or he's forced to take the longer journey back home to her, chasing that little whimper she lets out when she agrees to Frostreign is one of the many reasons he can do this. That he'll never stop surrendering all of his heart to her.
Ayaka once told him that she couldn't. That she couldn't let him have all of her after all. But, the more he laid in bed at night while they hurt, and thought about it all... She was telling the truth, and yet she was lying to herself all at once; that's what Cloud felt. Because he has the memory of what it felt like to have all of her. He'll hold that memory in his heart, and use it to carry him to the end of that wish he made in her name.
Would she be able to feel the way he smiles against her skin? The hum of approval and the softer sigh of relief that washes against lightly shimmering skin where he applied open-mouthed kisses? This was getting him warm under his collar, but nothing so heavy and yearning that he'd lose sense of where they were. He does grant Ayaka some reprieve when he draws away from the crook of her neck where he'd been kissing her. With her resting against him, as he shifts more upright, he half-embraces her with his free arm down the small of her back.
He's close to her ear now, answering her: ]
Pretty soon.
[ If he gets distracted by kissing her a few more times, he can't be at fault. His hand squeezes hers, gently, almost rhythmically as he kisses just in front of her ear, drawing the scent of her hair and just how easy it might have been to lay her down beneath the stars with him after all. But it's just like he said to her before.
He'll never stop wanting her. There's just a time and a place.
And with a deep breath in through his nose, and a hummed sigh back out, he finally draws away for real, sitting back enough so he can get a good look at her and how good she looked in that kimono tonight. But... ]
Just a sec.
[ Unraveling the navy scarf around his neck, if she'll let him, he plans on carefully slipping it around the back of hers, weaving it once around the front as he keeps a gentle hold of the ends with a smile. ]
There. [ A beat. ] A little chillier where we're headed.
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Date: 2024-02-21 09:24 am (UTC)Presented with two doors and with a choice to make, however, she realised what her capabilities were, what the limits to her loyalty was. And it's been some time since she asked for Cloud's forgiveness and also the forgiveness of her brother's, and she's moved past it. The pain will remain though, even if she does not think about it all that often anymore. If the choice presents itself again, despite Cloud's own words, despite what Ayato said about how she should choose Cloud if it means her own safety, she still would not be able to do so.
The choice, the pain, and the heartache are all far away from her mind right now though. There is no need to dwell on it with all the promises she and Cloud have made to one another. The stars shine bright above them, perhaps even brighter than when they were here last, and the love they have for one another is stronger than ever.
Cloud keeps spoiling her, kissing her to the point where she's gotten lightheaded already. Anything he tells her at this point, she would say yes to. It's why she doesn't try to move away from his hold or to shy away from all the kisses he's giving her, wherever they may be. Even if it makes her breath so shaky, and even if it makes her heart race like crazy. ]
Ah...
[ It is rather delayed when she realises she has a scarf around her neck, now. Looking down and feeling the thick cloth around her neck and touching her chin, she reaches for it with both her hands to hold it and feel if it's real. They would be going to Frostreign, so it only makes sense to cover up... Her eyes meet his again, and her face reflects his expression when she smiles softly. ]
I will hold your hand and keep you warm, then.
[ Especially since he is scarfless now!
She tugs on the scarf a little more, pushing it closer to her so she can nuzzle her cheek against one side. ]
It is not quite the same... but it is like your arms are wrapped around me like this.
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Date: 2024-02-26 12:19 am (UTC)Good. [ A beat. ] A warm-up for White Day.
[ Because if he can help it, he wasn't going to let her go until they needed to. Maybe while checking in. ...they both have a free hand.
It's not quite the same as having his arms around her. And he could very well still do that right here and now. But Cloud knew that if he did...they might not ever leave the top of this observatory tonight. It wasn't a bad thought to have, if only because he was still with her. He'd chased her to the end of a journey through memory lane, and now that he had her? It almost didn't matter where they were or when they went.
That's the fantasy they're living in now. But he wants to keep this going for as long as possible. So... ]
Maybe not as soft, [ Definitely not as soft. But as he leans in, fingers threading through the front of her hime cut hair, ] but you'll have mine around you more tonight.
[ Capped with a feather's brush of his lips to her forehead as he closes his eyes... One. Two. Breath, Cloud. Alright.
He pulls back one last time, shuffling on his knees until they have just a little more space. She's always made him feel comfortable, even when he was working his way through bouts of embarrassment and feeling shy. But tonight? He was confident. Driven. And he'll carry this feeling all the way into Frostreign with her. ]
Okay. Let's get packed up.
[ If she has a knapsack or anything to make things easier, he'll even carry that for her too! If she's ready, so is he. ]
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