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Idia is not going anywhere, you hear me?! You might be happy being the other woman, but I'm not happy with the pair of horns!
NOTE: I only write for female Reader, but everyone is welcome to read!
Inspired by @adrianasunderworld in this funny as hell post.
THIS HAS A SEQUEL! What if we fake married for real? (ʃƪ^3^) ~★
"To give someone a pair of horns" is to cheat on them. Also, Rook gets involved because he'd absolutely adore to be part of the drama.
Idia knows he's not frozen like the others, but honestly, he feels like it. He feels like even his lungs, even his heart has stopped. All because of this cute-faced npc who forced her way into a romance route with him. If he could think about it, he'd think about that horror game with the same story, but right now his mind is blank.
He has reached the point of no return. Actually dying would just reinforce his fate.
Or, at least, is what he thought. Almost as if answering to his thoughts, there's a loud noise coming from the other side of the doors, followed by footsteps.
Then the doors are thrown open by none other than (Y/N), the Ramshackle Housewarden that the school affectionately tends to call "Prefect".
She's dressed to the nines in a breathtaking wedding gown, the skirt pooling around her like God-Tier CGI, the blue accents contrasting beautifully with the pearly white of the dress, the blue roses decorating her head in a crown making her look like Persephone herself. She'd look perfect, if it weren't for the tear streaks her make-up left behind.
Wait. Tear streaks?
The silence breaks with the Prefects loud, shrill screech, a sound no one has ever thought she, the usually soft spoken and gentle Prefect, would be capable of.
"HOMEWRECKER!"
Without stopping to breath, she walks forwards, looking angrier and angrier each step taken.
"How dare you, you conniving bitch?! How dare you steal my groom! ON OUR WEDDING DAY?!" she screams at Eliza, stopping in the middle of the way to point at... at Idia himself?! "And you! You good-for-nothing two-timer! How dare you leave me waiting at the altar?!"
"Young man, I am terribly disappointed!" Professor Crewel chides from behind her, and Idia finally notices the group that actually came in with her. "I did not give you permission to marry my daughter, my first and only daughter, for you to break her heart on her happiest day!"
"Big brother! How could you! Think of your child!" Ortho chimes in, and if Idia hadn't built tear tracks on the boy himself, he would believe firmly in his tears. "Little Meg would be so sad if her daddy just left for another woman!"
"Idia, what is the meaning of this?!" it's Eliza's turn to screech, turning to him with fury in her eyes. Idia stutters a few random letters, trying to form words, just as confused as she is.
Until it clicks.
Right. Fake relationship. How could he forget one of the most cliche tropes in romance's history?
"I... I... t-this isn't what it looks like!" he finally manages to say, trying to look as desperate as he can, which is not hard considering what his fate is in case this plan fails. "I can explain!"
"Is it because of my past with Rook?! "
"Young man, you're still hung up on that, despite being the only man I've ever approved for my daughter?"
"What?!" someone yells in the crowd, but the man in question promptly enters the play as if he was born for this moment alone.
"Monsieur, I have told you this already, but I shall say it again! My dear dove's happiness is the most important to me! If she has chosen you, then my heart shall settle!" What the fuck, why is Rook so good at improv?
"I-I know!" calm down, Idia, think of this as a rhythm game and keep the beat going! "I don't... I don't want this, but this villainess wouldn't listen!"
"Wait, so this woman is telling the truth?!"
"This woman?! THIS WOMAN?! You mean his true bride?!" (Y/N) steps closer, fat crocodile tears rolling down her cheeks, smudging her make-up even more. "You- you- you husband-stealer! Know your place! You come into my house, you steal my groom and the father of my daughter-"
"I see no child-"
"Do you think I'd bring my child to see my husband's mistress?!"
"Big sister, calm down, think of the baby! Your stress levels are dangerously high!"
"WHAT BABY?!"
"Monsieur Shroud, if you do not fix this situation, I shall be taking my belle back! Do not worry, the children will not grow without a father!"
My video (pictures and sound belongs to rightful owner)
TBH I Could totally see this happening 😂
It was a normal Friday afternoon and class was ending as y/n walked past Mr. Crewels desk he spoke up “Y/N I need you to stay after for a second” Mr. Crewel said as he continued to grade papers. Y/n waved bye to her friends and grim as she stayed behind in the classroom. “Am I in trouble?” Y/n asked as she pulled up a chair. “No” Mr. Crewel answered
“Did grim do something?” Y/n
“No” crewel
“Did ace and deuce do something?” Y/n
“No” crewel
Mr. Crewel just smiled slightly as he placed his pen down and looked at y/n who was trying to figure out why she had to stay behind. “I wanted to ask you something important” crewel started y/n looked at him before slightly tilting her head. “Go on” y/n said with a confused smile, crewel sighed before placing a piece of paper in front of y/n. It was a adoption paper, y/n looked up at crewel in shock “before you say anything let me explain. I know you want to back home but it's just for now or if sadly there is no way back. Like for breaks you'll have somewhere to go instead of staying on campus. It's ok if you want you don't want to but-” “you actually want me as your daughter?” Y/n had interrupted crewel. Crewel looked at her and saw she had tears in her eyes. “Of course you like a daughter I've never had but always wanted. Your smart, brave, Hella stubborn and more” crewel said standing up and walking over to her. Y/n jumped up and hugged him crewel froze before wrapping his arms around her “But even if you say yes I won't give you any special treatment at school anyway” crewel said with a laugh y/n laughed as well.
Back home y/n was normal always by herself but here she has friends and now someone who wants to adopt her. Y/n pulled away from the hug and looked up at crewel “are you sure about this?” Y/n asked one last time crewel put a hand on her head “Yes my daughter” he replied y/n smiled and signed the paper. Crewel couldn't be happier one he has a daughter (and a devil cat) and two he gets to put Crowley through more hell. “Am I aloud to tell anyone?” Y/n asked crewel nodded as he picked up the paper “Yes I want all those bad pups to know if they mess with you they get to deal with me. Plus grim will have to know as well since he goes with you everywhere” crewel said with a proud smile. Y/n smiled again hugging him before running off to tell her friends the good (not so good for them) news.
Ignihyde & Diasomnia
Y/n has been at NRC for a while and she's never hugged anyone (besides grim) until today. Y/n took in a deep breath before walking out the door of the ramshackle dorm with grim on her shoulder.
Idia Shroud: Instant blue screen and pink hair. His mind will race between what's happening?, She's hugging me!!, Did I forget a special day?, and Why would she want to hug me? He won’t hug back unless ortho comes in and tells him to hug back and ortho takes a picture of y/n and Idia hugging. Once y/n leaves Idia has a huge smile on his face as he collapses onto his bed letting out the breath he didn’t know he was holding.
Lilia Vanrouge: Just hold your arms out when you see him and he’ll gladly accept. Y/n saw Lilia when she was leaving history “Lilia!” Y/n called out Lilia looked up from his DS (he’s a gamer you can’t tell me he has a ds or a switch) to see y/n told her arms out making him chuckle before disappearing then reappearing in front of her before wrapping his arms around her before they were both floating upside down in the air y/n was giggling as she held onto his small form. He may be small but remember he was a general and he is a fae. Once the hug was over he smiled as he watched y/n walk off humans never stop surprising him.
Silver Vanrouge: (ik just let me have this one!) He was found walking towards a tree probably where he can most likely always be found when he sleeps. Y/n quickly caught up with silver, “hey silver heading to your normal nap stop?” y/n asked silver nodded “yawn* yeah.. Is something wrong?” silver asked yawning y/n just shock her head before they stopped under the tree before silver could say anything else y/n hugged him making him chuckle before hugging her back “ your so warm” silver yawned as he fell asleep standing in her arms but y/n was ready and slowly placed him down on the ground.
Malleus Draconia: HUG!THIS!MAN! (you know Astarion from bg3 think about his hug) He was excited to see his child of man like he always is on their nightly walks. Before he could even say hello y/n smiled and wrapped her arms tightly around his waist he froze up before slowly wrapping his arms around y/ns puddy from. He needed this hug and y/n was happy to give it.They stood there for awhile by the time mallues had released y/n he realized she had fallen asleep. Mallues picked y/n up and teleported to the ramshack before gently placing her down on her bed “thank you child of man” mallues whispered before leaving (should i do the staff?)
Octavinelle & Scarabia ( Azul, Jade, Floyd, Kalim, and Jamil)
Y/n has been at NRC for a while and she's never hugged anyone (besides grim) until today. Y/n took in a deep breath before walking out the door of the ramshackle dorm with grim on her shoulder. {some are shorter than others}
Azul Ashengrotto: Hug him and he’ll melt into your arms and might start crying so pls do it behind closed doors. Y/n was waiting in Azul’s office for the deal maker, soon enough the door of the office opened “Y/n its good to see you! What brings you to my office today?” Azul asked, walking in before closing the door. Azul trusted y/n enough that he didn’t need to have the tweels in the room with them. Once Azul was close enough y/n hugged him and Azul basically collapsed into her arms y/n felt something wet landed on her shoulder. Azul felt bad he was crying on y/n's shoulder but the hug was nice and well needed. “What do you want in return?” Azul asked as he pulled away from her expecting she wanted something in return “Nothing i just wanted to give you a hug” y/n said with a huff crossing her arms before she walked out of the office waving bye to azul making him shake his head and smile. He did really like the hug though now he’s thinking about what to give y/n in return.
Jade Leech: Hug and run! y/n saw Jade washing dishes in the kitchen, so y/n thought it would be fun so just surprise hug him and that’s what she did. She quietly walked up behind the eel and wrapped her arms around him making him stop moving and with that y/n quickly let go and ran out of the kitchen. Jade watched y/n run out of the kitchen she surprised him, the jade leech he was impressed. He will get Y/n back, that's a promise.
Floyd Leech: This can go two ways depending on his mood if he's in a bad mood he’ll probably grunt as y/n hugs him before patting her head before wanting to be let go but will come running for a hug later or if he’s in a good mood y/n isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, his shrimpy hugged him for the first time this eel is excited now he’s going to hold you until he’s bored. As y/n ran out of the kitchen she saw Floyd looking down, she knew the two ways this would end but she still wanted to hug him. Y/n walked up to him “hi floyd you alright?” y/n asked Floyd quickly looked down at her “hi shrimpy just a bad day” he huffed “do you want a shrimpy hug?” y/n asked expecting him to say no but he lit up like a firework before picking her up and spinning her around “oh shrimpy!!!” Floyd happily yelled y/n just laughed as she hugged him. Everyone in the mostro lounge was thankful for y/n because now floyd was in a better mood. Y/n got ALOT of free food to take home that day.
Kalim Al-Asim: Just hold your arms out when you see him he’ll come running. Y/n was walking through the halls when she saw Kalim and Jamil “Y/n!” Kalim yelled waving at her with a big smile making y/n smile back at him and she opened her arms Jamil looked shocked and Kalim looked excited before he started running towards her very excitedly. He ran full force into her arm laughing the entire time. Once they pulled away from each other y/n saw Jamil had walked over to them.
Jamil Viper: Before Jamil could say anything y/n hugged him as well making him freeze before he hugged her back. Y/n did hug him a second longer than she hugged Kalim so Jamil was really happy and petty about the hug.
The first years (Ace, Deuce, Jack, Epel, Sebek, and Ortho)
Y/n has been at NRC for a while and she's never hugged anyone (besides grim) until today. Y/n took in a deep breath before walking out the door of the ramshackle dorm with grim on her shoulder. {ps y/n is pudgy since thats what i am)
Ace Trappola: Ace is the first person y/n saw this morning “hey y/n what's with that face?” Ace teased as she got closer before he could say anything else y/n wrapped her arms around his torso his face slowly turned red as he stood there shocked he wasn't expecting a hug he expected a punch to the shoulder like they do every morning before walking together to find the rest of the group. As quick as he became shocked is as quick it turned to cocky. “Oh couldn't keep your hands to yourself” he teased as he hugged her back before she huffed and pushed him away making him laugh before walking away. “Wait no come back!” he laughed as he followed behind her.
Deuce Spade: Deuce was running a bit late this morning but he soon caught up with y/n, grim and ace. “Sorry i’m late-” Deuce was cut off by y/n hugging him. He stood there frozen for a good minute before he hugged her and held her gently as if she was made of glass. “Deuce why you making such a ugly face man” ace and grim laughed making Deuce snap out of the wonderful moment “oi shove off!” he yelled at them while covering y/n's ears. Ace and grim looked at each other before they started mocking deuce, which ended in deuce gently pulling away from y/n, and charging after the two. Y/n just smiled, and shock her head before walking towards class and on the way maybe find her next huggable victim.
Jack Howl: Now since Jack is a beast man his senses are higher so sneaking up on him would be a little bit hard but not impossible, (but that's not going to happen this time) Jack was standing in the normal meeting spot near the fountain and his ears perked up when he heard grim and aces screams. He watched unamused as Ace, grim and deuce ran past him. Y/n stood beside jack as they watched ace and grim avoid a angry deuce, “‘sigh’ a normal monday'' Jack sighed looking down at y/n only to see her smiling up at him before hugging him, Jacks tail started wagging very quickly it looked like it could make a tiny tornado. Y/n could see Jack's face was very red “what is this for?” Jack asked, trying to act serious y/n shrugged and let go of him, which he patted her head gently in return before they went to follow the troublemakers.
Epel Felmier: He will try to fight because he doesn't want to be seen as cute, Epel meet the four near the cafeteria y/n walked up to him first and hugged him from behind making freeze up and raise his fist before looking over to see y/n hugging him “you all right?” was his first question, He liked the hug but he thought something was wrong. “Nothing wrong, i just wanted a hug” y/n said letting him go he turned around before hugging her back. Y/n smiled and hugged him again before epel dragged her into the cafeteria since everyone else already went in.
Sebek Zigvolt: We all know Sebek he yells (his words he just talks loudly) but now he is silent. Sebek was waiting outside Treins classroom for his friends he rarely eats breakfast with them; he wants to be near mallues at all times, from the corner of his eye he saw all six walking up to him. “ABOUT TIME YOU SHOWED-” sebek stopped mid shout and froze as he felt y/n hug him, everyone was ready for him to start shouting louder. Sebek slowly looked down at his friend before he brought his left hand up to the back of her head and patted it “ let's get to class” he said normally everyone looked at him in shock making him gently push y/n away before he walked into the classroom. Everyone slowly followed in after him y/n was worried she broke him because he was silent the entire lesson. “Sebek i’m sorry-” y/n started as she chased after sebek after class before he turned to look at her “ you did nothing wrong it felt nice thank you” he bowed everyone was still shocked at this and grim smirked “ aww look sebek is a softie” grim teased making sebek shot back up “THIS SOFTIE WILL END YOU!” sebek yelled with a red face, everyone covered their ears but laughed he was back to his normal self at least.
Ortho Shroud: HUG!THIS!BOY! (i wanna hug him! And squeeze him!) Ortho was excitedly looking for his friends “Ortho!!” y/n shouted as she ran towards her little robot friend, Ortho turned when he heard his name only to be wrapped into a warm hug, making him squeal as she swung him around as she held him in a tight hug. He loved hugs from people he cared for. “y/n! Your hugs are very warm, you should hug my brother too!” the boy happily stated
*BANGS ON TABLE* HELLO MAY I GET SOME HCS WHERE THE POMEFIORE TRIO WITH A FEM!S/O THATS BASED OFF OF GANYU PRETTY PLEASE 💳💥💳💥💳💥💳💥💳💥
Good luck to the Ganyu wanters! May you all be Ganyu havers~
Pomefiore | Female reader | Headcanons
Vil is constantly worried about her health. She works day and night, and accepts her workload no matter how ridiculous they may seem. It’s no wonder that Crowley depends on her so much to keep the school in order, and Vil finds himself stepping in more often than he’d like to force her to rest. Seriously, he thinks that he might be losing precious sleep fretting over her getting enough sleep herself.
He initially didn’t understand what she meant when she told him that she’s worried she might not be able to control herself around the wild dandelions growing around the campus. Isn’t it natural to be attracted to flowers? So imagine his shock when he came across his darling chewing on raw dandelions in the sports field. He immediately strode over to her and smacked her back repeatedly, forcing her to spit them out. If she wants to eat dandelions that badly, then she should just tell him so he can whip up a plate of fresh spring salad for her!
Vil thought that she was a fae at first because of her black horns. They’re strikingly similar to Malleus’ that he even believed they were relatives, and he may or may not have been afraid of approaching her in the beginning.
Oh, she’s such a sweet soul that every day he feels blessed to be with someone so understanding. With her gentle disposition, she never once said anything or treated him in a way that made him feel like a villain. Perhaps he could be the Prince Charming in her story, and stand at the centre of her attention until the very end.
Despite her unconditional kindness, Vil could sense the loneliness she radiates. She has admitted to him that she struggles to feel a sense of belonging because of her origins but never divulged on her past. He’s not one to pry into people’s personal lives though and has all the patience in the world; he’s willing to wait until she’s ready to tell him her story.
When Rook first laid his eyes on her, he was immediately entranced by her horns. They remind him of Roi du Dragon’s, but their bright red markings make them look so unique! Despite her insecurity regarding them, he would shamelessly fawn over them whenever he has chance to. Horns or no horns, she’ll always be his petit lapin~
Her prowess with the bow had made him fall for her even harder (as if they’re not already dating lol) since he has a natural affinity for the bow as a hunter. Combined with her ice magic, every shot her fingers release creates an ephemeral winter wonderland that he can only marvel at for a mere second.
He thinks that the ice lotus she can cause to sprout on any surface is a sight to behold, but when she summons a Sacred Cryo Pearl that continuously rains down shards of ice in the air, his breath is snatched right out of his lungs. Who knew that she was capable of conjuring up such beautiful creations?
Although he wouldn’t be as shocked as Vil, he'd still be surprised if he catches her eating the wild dandelions growing around the campus. He has seen Ruggie collecting them before (hence his nickname) and can understand why he does it, but when he hears her reason of simply loving the taste of them, he’s speechless. Oh well, at least she’s not eating the white dandelions...
Rook often compares her to Silver because of her otherworldly aura and constant sleepiness. Unlike the narcoleptic knight however, she’d always catch herself before she completely gives in to the temptation of sleep. Should she fall asleep though, Rook would happily drape his blazer over slumbering form to keep her warm and also leave some yellow dandelions for her to snack on when she wakes up.
Epel really admires how hard she works and feels motivated to give it his all whenever he sees her diligence. How she’s able to handle the most arduous of workloads without complaint and conflict will always be a wonder to him, and he’d offer to help lessen her workload when he has the free time to.
Her ice magic is extremely useful in preserving his apple carvings because the ice she’s able to weave with her powers doesn’t melt easily. Not to mention, she can act as his walking air conditioner and cool him down after Magift Club... She can also serve chilled apple juice, ice bridge their way across a body of water... Just thinking about the utility of her magic excites him!
When Epel witnessed her devouring the yellow dandelions like a starved beast in the courtyard for the first time, he instinctively slapped the flowers out of her hands and proceeded to smack her back to make her spit out the dandelions that were in her mouth. He refuses to let her eat anything dirty on his watch; if she wants to eat those dandelions, she should at least wash them first before consuming them!
Like Vil, Epel initially thought that she’s related to Malleus because of her horns. He bluntly asked her if she’s a member of the infamous Draconia family, and she had to explain to him that the idea of her being Malleus’ relative is impossible because she’s not from the Valley of Thorns. She also revealed to Epel that she’s not a fae, but a half-human with the blood of an illuminated beast flowing within her veins. He doesn’t understand what illuminated beasts are and simply assumed that they’re a species with a strong affinity for magic.
Her graceful and quiet nature ignited his desire to protect her from the “bad things”, even though he knows that she’s more than capable of protecting herself. Still, she’d let him play the role of her protector, right?
Taglist | @flowwerpot @bouquetofrosehearts @daily-diasomnia @promisedvictories @blossomized-loveshow @cherryusei @glamorousruins @melkxsh @milk-bulb @lovelettersforganyu
Now why would you say that 😕
Malleus: I just figured out child of man is planning a surprise party for me.
Malleus: What should I do, Lilia?
Lilia: Surprise them back!
Lilia: Don't show up.
Ella solo quiere retomar su estilo de vida que tenia antes de llegar Twisted Wonderland (y completamente extraña su cuarto hiperfemenino.
Y si ella es una copia de Vil pero sin la estabilidad económica y siendo más amable con los demás (respeta y no trata que todo el mundo sigue alguna rutina o dieta).
Lo lamento si esta desordenado o confuso, se me ocurrió al momento y pensé hacerlo ahorita antes de que se me fuera la idea 💀💀
Summary: Jade sighs, closing his eyes. He wants to scream. These feelings of infatuation had long involved past a simple crush. No matter how much he denied, they wouldn't leave him alone anytime soon. You weren't leaving him alone anytime soon.
Notes: gn!reader (use of they/them), fluff and humor, just a silly romcom based on this ask! jade is so whipped for the reader, I was having so much fun writing it got away from me and almost reached 10k what??? special shoutout to ramble anon <3 now cross posted on ao3!
Jade Leech was not one for sentimentalism.
It was quite clear for everyone around him. Jade didn't show his true emotions on his face and always kept his suave persona up at all times. If he was shocked or sad or angry, no one could ever tell behind his polite smile and sharp eyes.
Even Azul and Floyd, the ones closest to him, had trouble discerning his feelings at times. Jade was very discreet with his actions and words, oftentimes leaving things to be read between the lines.
Thus, everyone and their mothers could atest to that: Jade Leech was not a sentimental person. He was calm and collected, acting as if he was above and in control of every situation, untouchable by such fickle things such as emotions.
Although, not for the knowledge of many, there was just a tiny little exception in the shape of a certain magicless human.
Not even Jade himself could tell how this came to be. It was part of the charm, how you fascinated him so easily, without any extra effort on your part. There was something appealing in your sincerity and affection, things he was not that used to. You always managed to surprise him, making him fall deeper and deeper for you everytime you caught him off guard. His heart fluttered everytime you kept up toe to toe with him, be it in friendly banter or in deeper conversations.
There were not many people who could say they were able to see Jade showing his true emotions. You just happened to be one of them. When he was with you, his smile would reach his eyes and he'd show just a bit of his teeth, his voice would take a teasing tilt laced with barely concealed affection, his face would light up like the sun whenever you asked him to tell you more about a new mushroom he was tending to or about his newest mountain expedition.
It was the first time anyone made him feel like this. While Jade had no trouble holding his usual mask in place, his heart would race faster on his chest, his hands would get slightly clammy, he'd feel the urge to bite his lips or to play with his hair to release some of the pent up energy he felt around you. And he wanted more of your time, to be able to see you between his classes and work, to spend some time relaxing together or discovering new things.
Life at the deep sea was very different from life on land. Love at the deep sea was very different from love on land. Perhaps that's what made the whole experience so fascinating, after all. It was something he'd have never been able to have if he had stayed down there on the murky cold waters. He'd never been able to bask in these warm feelings, so new and unknown.
Jade thought he was doing a good job, overall. He didn't change much about how he acts normally, most people wouldn't notice a single thing was different. There were times he had the impression you did, like you could see right through his façade as if it was nothing, melting away his walls and looking straight at him, for who he is. It was frightening and exhilirating at the same time, to be seen. Jade didn't know what to make of it, as of yet.
Azul and Floyd seemed to disagree, though. At first, Floyd thought it was hilarious, how his usually serious brother could have something as innocent as a crush. He'd tease Jade constantly whenever they crossed paths with the prefect just to ruffle his feathers and get a rise out of him. Seeing the unbothered Jade glaring at him with a clearly annoyed look was so entertaining. Azul didn't care, as long as it didn't affect his work at the lounge, Jade could like whoever he wanted, though he was quite curious as to how the situation came to be.
And then Jade's feelings grew and it become obvious, to them, that it was a little more than a simple crush. By the way Jade acted around you, as it seemed like he glowed when you were near him, and how he talked about you, mentioning something you did or liked or that reminded him of you every once in a while in conversation. It was subtle, as most things involving Jade were, but enough for them to take notice. It was almost at the level of his mushrooms obsession, and that was saying something.
No one dared to make a move. Having Jade being infatuated with someone broke the careful balance of things in the trio, taking him out of his position as the cold and calculating Vice-Housewarden and putting him in a more complex label. Floyd and Azul always relied on him to fall back onto should things go wrong, trusting he'd make it alk work out as someone that was above everything. Taking such a pedestal out, Jade seemed much less like some higher being and much more... human.
Not that they didn't know he was capable of feelings, of course. They were aware Jade cared about them, otherwise he wouldn't have sticked around so long by their side. It was just surprising to see someone else entering the little bubble of people Jade cared about after such a long time with it being just the two of them there.
That's why they thought Jade should do something about his crush. It was almost painful to watch you dance around each other, every interaction filled to the brim with affection, stolen glances and flirty tones. Floyd wanted to just tell you about his brother's feelings and get it over with, but he knew that wasn't the best way to go about it, as Azul had drilled onto his head after he suggested they did that. Jade insisted he was fine with things staying as they were for the time being, still not done with observing and experimenting with both his and your reactions.
"Prefect, what a wonderful surprise. How may I be of service today?"
You laugh, recognizing the irony on his tone. You tried to visit Mostro Lounge as often as you could when Jade was on the clock, even if your wallet weeped at this. He was expecting you, as he always did.
"Oh, I don't know, I don't come around too often. What would you reccomend?" You tease back, playfulness dancing in both of your eyes. It's a game you're used to, the banter coming naturally to you.
"You really should, then." He winks, somehow managing to look suave while doing so and wiping a glass at the same time. "How about... a strawberry milkshake?"
You gasp dramatically, doing an exaggerated expression of surprise. "That's my favorite! How could you know? Maybe it was destiny I came here after all..."
That earns you a chuckle, making satisfaction swin in your stomach at warranting such a reaction. Jade's amusement is clear by the smile on his face and his scrunched up eyebrows. You can't help but smile back, warmth surrounding you as you take in the sound and commit it to memory.
"Perhaps it was. I'll bring you your drink in a minute."
You lean on the counter of the bar, watching him work gracefully. At the corner of your eye, you can see Floyd making some kind of annoyed expression. Jade pointedly ignores him, making flourish of adding the finishing touches on the milkshake, adding in a little umbrella on top of the whipped cream, near the strawberry hanging onto the glass.
"Here you go. I hope you enjoy it, prefect, I made it with the utmost care, after all."
He hands the drink to you, hands making contact just for a second longer than necessary, and slides a biodegradable straw to the cup's side. You insert it on the milkshake, drinking in and closing your eyes in delight. It tasted wonderful, as all of Jade's drinks did.
"I take it you do like it, from that reaction." He teases, leaning into where you're seated. There are other workers attending to the bar and the lounge isn't too crowded, so he can afford to keep conversation with you for some moments. You looked quite cute enjoying something so simple as if it was a five star meal.
"It's delicious! Here, have some." You spin the cup around, putting the straw right in front of him. Jade's eyes widen just the tinniest fraction as he looks taken aback by your proposal.
"Oh, it wouldn't do for me to drink something from a client. Azul would have my neck, you see."
You roll your eyes, knowing Azul didn't intimidate him at all. Plus, what Azul didn't see couldn't hurt him. "Then don't drink it as a Mostro worker, but as my friend."
His eyes bore into yours for a few seconds before his blank expression breaks into a smile, the lighest pink tint coloring his cheeks, almost imperceptible. "Well, if you insist, I suppose I'll humor you." He tucks his longer strand of hair behind his ear before leaning in, taking a sip from your straw and closing his eyes to mimick your earlier action. It was quite a sight. Your heart beat faster and your throat seemed dry all of sudden, making you swallow on air.
"You are right, as usual. It does taste delicious." He keeps his head inclined, lips almost touching the straw as he licks them, eyes looking at you through his lashes, voice low. You grip your tigh and bite your lower lip, hoping your face won't betray how warm it feels.
"Of course, it was made by the best. I'll have to show you that guy sometime, he's really good."
"I would be delighted to meet him."
He turns the milkshake back to you, still leaning in as his eyes sparkle with mischief. He seems as entertained by this game as you are. You put your hand on top of his, still at the bottom of the cup, and bring it closer, taking a sip while keeping eye contact. His smile softens at the corners and there's something fond on his expression. Your hand squeezes his before letting go. He opens his mouth to say something before he's called to attend another client.
His face falls and he looks disappointed to leave this little moment behind, almost as if he forgot he was still working. He apologizes for the interruption and you wave him off, saying how it was your fault for taking so much of his time anyway. The milkshake is still as good as it was once he leaves, but it feels like it's missing something.
By the corner of the bar, Azul and Floyd stand observing the interaction. Floyd wants to tear his hair out and Azul looks constipated. How long will they have to watch you two doing this? It's about time they staged an intervention, for both yours and their sake.
Things continue like normal for some time. You still visit him at the lounge, Azul and Floyd still suffer through your blatant flirting, Jade still observes things carefully.
And, as usual, Jade tends to his beloved mushrooms. He's gotten a new species on his latest mountain excursion, one with a pretty pink and wrinkled cap and white stem. It reminds him of your strawberry milkshake and he thinks you'd like to see them. He'd even give one to you in a carefully decorated terrarium if he was absolutely sure it wasn't poisonous. Oh well, just seeing them would have to suffice. Jade would make sure to keep them as pretty as possible.
They grew on a hardwood trunk, the soothing scent of camphor drifting through the wet air of the botanical garden. Under the canopy of dense trees, they looked even more peach in the midst of all the greenery. The wrinkles tickled his gloved fingers as he caressed the mushroom, treating it with care. The artificial river followed it's course nearby, providing with a lullaby of serenity. The scene felt comfortable, Jade felt content. He felt as much at home as he did under the sea.
Perhaps it was due to this mushy atmosphere that Jade felt compelled to talk about you. He's used to talking with his mushrooms, as he'd read that it helps them grow, but this time it felt different, like revealing a secret to a confidant. Almost like a confession.
"The prefect came to visit me at work today, once again. Even if the menu of the lounge takes a toll on their budget, they come almost every day. I don't see why they keep doing it."
The mushroom doesn't reply, as it is simply a fungi and it doesn't know how to talk.
"You are right, I do know why. They want to spend more time with me, just like I do with them. It is truly a shame I'm so busy we have to resort to meeting while I'm at work. I wish I could give them my full attention, without having to go serve other customers."
The river goes on, birds chirp outside, the wind rattles the foliage gently.
"The fact they keep going makes me... happy. I'm glad to see them there. I would even dare to say it is the highest point of the day. I look forward to it every shift."
Naturally, a gentle smile takes over his face. His eyes are soft as he keeps caressing the mushroom's cap.
"Azul and Floyd say I should confess soon. How out of character it would be for me to do so. I have considered it before, even, but... I'm not sure if I want to change our current relationship. It is comfortable. And I don't want to lose it."
Jade sighs, full with yearning. The next bit comes out as a whisper, almost as if he spoke a little louder it would become more real than it already is. He feels vulnerable admiting such a thing, as he's not one for sentimentalism, but it also feels... right.
"I really like the prefect. I would like to take them out on a date and give them my full attention. I would like to receive their affections and have their smile directed at me. I would like to hold and to kiss them. I would like to bask in ther warmth for as long as they would let me."
It feels ecstatic, like a weight being lifted off his chest. Now, if only he could tell this to the person who was meant to hear it.
Footsteps pop the bubble of quietness, startling Jade and making him get up from the ground, dusting of his pants and calming down his heart. He was unusually jumpy, as if the admission of his feelings out loud could have reached your ears.
"Jade, here you are!"
Talk about the devil and he shall appear. Although in this case, you were more like an angel, such an ethereal presence lightning up the path, quite literally as the sun shone past the leaves and created a halo on your head.
"Prefect. Were you looking for me?"
He's sure his voice was perfectly level, but something on his tone makes you pause and tilt your head at him, a contemplative look passing through your face fast as flash, gone as soon as he saw it. Jade feels like you saw through his act, but decided to not comment for his sake.
"Oh, there's something I want to give you!"
Your sing song voice breaks the tension on his shoulders. He remembers you mentioning being busy working on a surprise for him, though you wouldn't budge at any of his questions to expand more on what exactly this surprise was.
"Is it related to a certain surprise, perhaps?"
"You know me too well, Jade! C'mon, close your eyes and give me your hands."
He considers not doing so just to see your reaction, but the excitement dancing in your eyes was too endearing for him to disturb, so he complies.
"My, my, I wonder what could it be that you couldn't wait for my shift to give it to me."
"You'll see!"
You deposit something gently on his hands, a small and fragile thing by the feel of it. There are two of them, smooth with a pointy end and fitting on his palm. He opens his eyes, curious, while you stare expectantly.
On his open hand sits a pair of handmade mushroom earrings. They are blue dotted with white spots, a twist on the classic red to fit more with his color scheme. They had been lovingly coated with paint and varnish, wrapped with silver wire.
"There you go! Do you like it?"
Jade blinks. He can't stop looking at them, at every detail imbedded on the accessories, at the care you must have for them.
"Did you make it?"
"Yep! I saw it on magicam these days and thought of you, so I decided to try my hand at it. I get it if it's a bit wonky, that's the first time I do something like this."
"It is perfect."
He says it on a whisper, almost as if all the air on his lungs was used to push the words through the lump around his throat. His heart flutters and Jade feels the overwhelming urge to thank you over and over again. It's a simple gift, but the mere fact that you made it simply because you thought he might like it meant the world to him.
You seem mesmerized by his reaction. It is quite uncharacteristic of him to show so many emotions, but he needs to express his gratitude, he needs you to know how much he appreciates it.
"Thank you, prefect. They are truly wonderful." He pockets them carefully, making sure they won't be damaged. He can't meet your eyes. He's sure that if he does, you'll see straight through his heart, dissecate his chest and pull out all his ribs to discover the mushy feelings inside, growing like vines on his lungs. "Ah, I don't have anything to offer in return, I'm afraid."
"There's no need to give me anything back. I just did it because I wanted to make you happy, that's all there is to it."
"I... I see." Jade wasn't sure what to make of it. Your smile was sincere, your body language suggested you were entirely too comfortable, your tone of voice was it's usual melody. "You might want to be careful when making such heartfelt remarks like that, prefect. People might get the wrong idea."
His atempt at deflecting the topic was quite weak, not fooling you in the slightest. "Let them think whatever they want. I only said how I feel, after all."
And against facts there were no arguments, were there?
"I suppose you are right once more."
You only laugh, looking around the area for the first time since you arrived. You notice the mushroom quickly, it's peach color catching your attention and making you coo at it.
"Oh, it's so pretty! That's the new species you found, yes?"
You crouch near the trunk, observing the fungi. Your hair falls slightly over your eyes as you take in the sight. The sun still shines above, surrounding you and creating an illusion of dancing light specks around your figure. There was something magical on the scene itself. Jade was captivated, he couldn't look away.
"Jade, they're beautiful." You murmur, extending your hand to touch it lightly, a delighted smile spreading through your face at the tickle of the wrinkles.
"Yes, they are." Jade agrees. He's not looking at the mushrooms. There's something much more charming for him to see.
You turn to face him, unguarded wonder on your expression, as if Jade had shown you one of the most fascinating things you've ever seen. His ears are most likely as pink as the subject of your admiration. He mirrors your smile, adapting a softer version of it.
"Can you tell me more about it, please?"
Oh, what was Jade going to do with you? You were going to kill him with an arrhythmia at the rate things were going.
"Of course, it would be my pleasure to do so."
He crouches down by your side, your legs pressing against each other. His hand comes up adjust your hair behind your ear, fingers grazing your skin just a touch more than necessary. He starts with a low whisper, making you lean into him to hear. "You see, this is a rare species called Rhodotus Palmatus. It is quite unique, as there are no others that can compare to it. It is said to be the prettiest mushroom in the world, so imagine my surprise when I stumbled upon them on my latest excursion..."
You let him ramble on, making questions or comments to show your interest. Jade feels his chest blooming with pink azaleas, throughly charmed by you.
He ends up getting late for his shift at Mostro Lounge. Before Azul could berate him for it, you took responsability and said you were the one taking his time. Azul, strangely enough, decided to let it pass and just told him to get to work. Your milkshake that day had an extra strawberry and a pink flower decorating the cup.
After they closed up the lounge, Jade got Floyd to pierce his other ear. His brother looked at him with curiosity at the sudden request but obliged, not kicking much of a fuss.
The eelmer found himself on quite the embarrassing situation. He was alone on the bathroom, staring at his reflection on the mirror. On one ear, his usual sturgeon scales earring. On the other, a shiny new mushroom earring. He kept staring, feeling the sensation of the extra weight, how it'd shake alongside his head movements, how the blue was the perfect shade to match his hair.
Jade took it off, staring at it in his hands. It was so small. He thought about how much time you might have spent on the details, each white dot made with the utmost care. How you might have struggled to get the shape right, as noticible by the slight imperfections around the edges of the mushroom's cap. How, through it all, the thing motivating you was to see him smiling.
Such a sentimental thing innocently resting against his palm.
His other earring was taken out as well, the three of them put on a small box at the bathroom cabinet. Jade brushed his teeth on automatic. He went to the empty bedroom, Floyd nowhere in sight, and sat on his bed. There was some kind of restlesness shivering under his skin, his heartbeat didn't feel right, his face remained warm. He had to admit, you had quite the effect on him.
Jade Leech was not one for sentimentalism. Then why did a simple earring cause such a reaction on him?
He had to remain calm. It would not do to lose the firm grip he held on his emotions. His usual polite façade relied onto such control, on how Jade managed to keep a level head in all kinds of situations. If he broke that mask, what would become of his reputation? The cunning vice housewarden of Octavinelle, one known to be just as dangerous as his twin brother, acting all sappy with the magicless human, arguably the least threatning person in the entire campus.
Your words from earlier come to mind, sweet voice carrying like a whisper on the breeze. Let them think what they want. Either way, he had other means of making them talk, whether they thought of him as weak for showing his affection or not. It could even be advantageous, creating a more open image of him that might make them more willing to share their secrets.
Once he thinks of you, a calm look in your face as you feel at home in the middle of the foliage, listening attentively to every word he says, eyes shining with fondness, he can't be bothered about what others would think at all. He thinks of strawberry milkshake, a lazy afternoon at the lounge as you fill him in on the gossip of the freshmen. He thinks of a peach and a teal mushroom, the two making quite the pair together. He thinks of your concentrated expression as you ramble about your latest interest on a nightly walk. He thinks of your warm touch on his cold skin, never shying away from his sharp edges.
Jade sighs, closing his eyes. He wants to scream. These feelings of infatuation had long involved past a simple crush. No matter how much he denied, they wouldn't leave him alone anytime soon. You weren't leaving him alone anytime soon.
On an uncharacteristic manner, he threw himself on the bed, his face smushed against the pillow. There was no one around to judge this slip of posture and show of vulnerability. Just him and his thoughts of you. He felt the childish urge to kick his legs and trash around, something so like Floyd it almost made him laugh. He felt feverish, his chest ached with a yearning he couldn't describe. Pathetically, he wanted to be yours, he wanted you to be his, a feeling so overwhelming he didn't know what to make of it.
He had to get a grip.
He did kick his legs a little though. Simply to see what was so appealing about it.
Unbeknown to him, Floyd happened to open the silent door at that exact time. He took one look at his brother's state, remembered the handmade mushroom earring he was given as a gift and your cheery presence by his side once he arrived late to his shift, and decided to close the door again. He was so not in the mood to deal with this.
It was time him and Azul did something about it. If neither Jade nor you would give the first step, Floyd had the perfect plan to give you the little push you needed.
And so, the next day had the twins walking together at the hallways of Night Raven College, moving from one class to another. It was an uneventful scene, something that could be observed everyday. Still, there was something bothering Jade. He could feel something was different, somehow, but couldn't put his finger on what it was.
After he had a mini breakdown of drowning in his own feelings in the previous night, he felt more on edge. He was sure he looked immaculate on the outside before leaving his room, uniform ironed and buttoned up impecably, hair combed properly and the usual polite smile on face. It would do no good to look frazzled. The only difference was the teal mushroom earring hanging from his right ear.
Floyd was in one of his good moods, chirpy and with a skip on his step. He seemed to be looking for someone but kept himself at Jade's side, despite them having different classes that period.
Both twin's faces light up as soon as they see you coming out of a classroom, balancing books in your hands. Floyd's scream of "Shrimpy" is enough to clear the path to your direction and to catch your attention. You try to wave at them, almost making the books fall before you catch them just in time.
"There you are, Shrimpy!"
"Good morning, prefect."
"Ah, Jade, Floyd, hi! It's good to see you guys!"
Floyd ruffles your hair playfully, making it stick in every direction and letting out a laugh. Jade finds your answering pout endearing.
"Prefect, if you wouldn't mind?" Jade offers his free arms, letting you slide most of the books to him. It was a natural action, well praticed as Jade was used to helping you with little everyday chores. Even when you tried to deny giving him more work, he insisted it was his pleasure to help. Eventually you understood that was simply his way of showing affection and let him do as he wanted to, as long as he didn't overwork himself in the process.
"Thank you! C'mon, I have to take these to professor Trein before we have our next class with him at the end of the hallway."
The three of you walk together, even though the twin's classrooms weren't near yours. You appreciated the company, so it wasn't like you were about to complain. Floyd wraps an arm around your shoulders, leaning on you, as Jade looks on curiously, wondering what his brother could have come up with this time.
"Say, Shrimpy, are you free tomorrow?"
"Hmm... tomorrow is Saturday, right? Then I think that I've got some free time, yes."
"Great! You know who else is free tomorrow? Jade is! How about the two of you have a date, then?"
It's as if time paused, the three of you stopping in the middle of the halls. Both you and Jade stare incredulously at Floyd, not daring to make eye contact with each other. Jade feels his heart stopping for a second as well, followed by a feeling of annoyance. Oh, he'd have a few choice words for his dearest brother once they were alone.
"I didn't hear a no from either of you, so I'm taking it as confirmation. You'll have dinner together at Mostro Lounge! Don't be late or else Azul will raise the price of the bill, you know how he is." And with that, Floyd simply turns around and leaves you two stunned into silence, watching his retreating back.
Jade would have gone after him if he wasn't busy helping you carry your books. As it was, he was left to deal with the mess Floyd caused, as usual. He clears his throat, making you turn your attention to him. The confusion in your face would normally warm his heart, but this time he only feels dread.
"I'm sorry, prefect, I don't know where this came from. I will have a talk with Floyd for the inconvenience."
There's a pensive look on your face before you avert your eyes, words coming out in a low tone.
"Actually... I wouldn't mind going on a date with you tomorrow. If you want to, that is."
Jade feels his heart stop once more, for an entirely different reason from the last time. He should get it checked with how often it's been doing that.
"You... wouldn't?" His words are laced with tentative hope, so fragile.
"No. I'd love to, actually." Your cheeky smile blinds him like the sun and gives him the confirmation he needed. Wearing his confidence like a well worn glove, he puts on his best charming expression.
"In this case, allow me to ask you out properly. Prefect, would you like to go on a date with me tomorrow?"
You chuckle, mirth coloring your gaze as you bounce on your feet. "Why, yes Jade, I'd love that."
"Perfect. Then, I'll pick you up at your dorm for dinner. My treat."
"Oh, how charming. I'll be waiting for you!"
Before Jade can answer, the bell rings and you're reminded you do have a class to get to. You both scurry to your classroom at the end of the hallway, stealing glances between yourselves, a giddiness enveloping you. Jade arrives fashionably late for his own class with a smile on his face, teeth exposed and all. His classmates give him a wide berth, creeped out by whatever trouble that expression could bring. Jade doesn't mind, too busy thinking on what to put on the menu for your dinner to care about his classmates fearing for their lives.
Later on the day, he had quite a pleasant conversation with Floyd about the stunt he pulled. Floyd got to feel how his squeezing victims felt. He's sure it was eye opening for his brother.
Azul also got bombarded with an intricate menu request for the following day. He knew Floyd had to be involved with this somehow, but couldn't he had asked him beforehand about reserving the lounge for the night?
It was not until the next day that you saw Jade again. As promised, he was knocking politely on the door of Ramshackle by the time the clock hit six p.m.
He looks stunning. You had to take a moment to take him in fully. The smart suit fitting him perfectly, black social shoes and hair properly combed. On both his ears, blue mushrooms hanging contently. You could feel a faint scent of cologne, some earthy smell that was so much like him you couldn't help feeling endeared by it.
"Good evening, prefect. You look wonderful."
"Thank you. You're not that bad yourself." You wink, letting him in as you finish putting your shoes.
"Not that bad? My, my, you wound me. And after I took so much time getting ready to meet your standarts, too."
You chuckle, shaking your head, sincerity taking over your teasing tone. "Oh, Jade, you already met my standarts, no need to get all dolled up."
"You flatter me." He offers his hand for you to stand up.
"Maybe I do. Would you rather I stop?" You accept it, letting him pull you.
"No need, I'm quite content as it is." He brings your hands to his lips, grazing them so lightly you almost can't feel them. It sends shivers across your arm and heat to your cheeks. "I brought you a gift."
"Really?"
"Of course. Here, please allow me to put it on."
Jade shows you a necklace with a silver chain and a pretty peach colored shell. You brush your fingers on it, feeling the spiral pattern and it's roughness. It has a slightly salty smell, as if there was a piece of the sea itself imbedded on it.
"It's beautiful, Jade, thank you." The way you say it as if Jade had given you some priceless jewel makes satisfaction wash through him in waves.
You turn around, holding your hair out of the way for him to put it in place. His cold fingers brush against your sensitive neck, once again making shivers rise along your skin. His hands rest on your shoulders as he leans in, mouth so close to your ear you can feel every puff of hot air.
"It was the least I could do after receiving your enchanting gift."
He pulls away, leaving your neck feeling oddly bare despite the extra weight on it. You spin around to face him, holding the shell close to your heart.
"I told you there was no need to give me anything back!"
"Don't get it wrong, this isn't pay back, prefect. I merely did it because I wanted to make you happy, that's all there is to it." He looks quite smug throwing your words back at you.
"That's not fair, you know." You pout playfully, making a low chuckle leave his lips. "Oh, I got a gift for you too! Wait just a second!"
That picks his curiosity, as he wasn't expecting anything this time. It seemed that you truly took delight in giving him things. His chest felt warm at the thought.
You come back holding a bouquet of pink hydrangeas, the shade remembering him of the newest mushroom he had showed you. It's beautifully done, wrapped in a light blue paper and tied by a pink ribbon.
"My heartfelt emotions, to you." You make flourish when giving it to him, bending down in a bow.
His cheeks tint pink, matching the lovely shade of the flowers. He accepts them gracefully, thanking you. It's quite a sight, Jade fully buttoned up, the image of a perfect gentleman, carrying the flowers as if they were the most precious thing he owns.
"C'mon, let's get going before Azul charges us extra for the wait."
"Don't worry, he wouldn't dare to." There's a hint of pointy teeth in his smile, enough to imply the threat Azul'd be under should he try something.
You lead him out of the door, walking side by side to the mirror chamber. Neither of you are in a hurry, so you take your time to appreciate each other's company. It feels like only a second has passed by once you're in front of Octavinelle's entrance.
"Shall we enter, my dear? We can't have the food turning cold on us."
His free hand finds it's way around your lower back as he guides you through the mirror and to the lounge, navigating tables expertly. The whole establishment is empty besides the two of you, smooth jazz playing on the background and dim lights creating a cozy atmosphere. The fish pass you by on the water tanks, creating an entrancing dance, a blur of colors reflecting on the glass.
You take your seat on a table right in the middle, one more decorated than the others, a white cloth and a vase of flowers sitting on top of it. You can see the whole room from there, from the bar to Azul's VIP room's door.
Even with the formality of the situation, you find yourself comfortable in his familiar presence. Jade can talk with you for hours on end, each word capturing your attention wholly. As you wait for your order to come, you let the jazz rythm lull your conversation, playing with the shell on your necklace from time to time.
Many would say Jade Leech is a scary man. It's true, you think. The way he's entranced you is terrifyingly thrilling. At the same time, it isn't true at all, not to you at least. You know how dangerous he can be, you're not that naive, but you feel safe with him. How ironic that the sharp smile that makes so many shiver from fear is what warms your heart.
Floyd is the one to arrive with your order, making a show of spinning it before putting it on the table. You chuckle at his antics, watching him dance as he retreats to the kitchen.
"I hope it is up to your taste. I made sure there were only the best ingredients being used, handpicked by myself."
"It looks delicious! Not sure if I trust the handpicking part, tho. You're sure you didn't slip any poisonous mushroom on it?" You joke, taking a bite of the food. The taste disperses on your tongue and you hum contently, the warmth spreading to your body as you swallow. You take another bite, making amusement shine in Jade's eyes.
"Well, now that you mention it... you can still feel your tongue, yes?"
You almost choke in your laughter, coughing as he makes a worried face that doesn't fool you for a second. "Ugh, you're the worst. But this is so good I think it'd be worth the trip to the infirmary."
"I'm glad you like it so much, then."
"Yeah, the company isn't half bad either."
"I could say the same. You're rather delightful to have around. Much more so without being delirious from an unfortunate accident, so you don't have anything to worry about."
Your smile grows bigger at the compliment, mischief sparkling in your gaze as you wait for him to take a bite before answering. "Awn, you care about me? That's cute."
It's Jade's turn to splutter, although he does so in a much more dignified and contained way than you did. If it wasn't for the rising of his shoulders and the widening of his eyes, you wouldn't be able to tell he was fazed at all. Lucky for you, you took notice of his reactions as much as he did for yours. Before he can retort, there's an interruption in the shape of a certain Housewarden.
"Is everything going alright? How do you like the food?" Azul has a polite costumer smile plastered on his face, but his curiosity is obvious. You and Jade exchange a glance between yourselves.
"It's wonderful, as always."
"I see, I see." He pauses for a second too long, taking in the scene fully. Jade glares at him once they meet eyes. You stifle a giggle. "I wouldn't want to take more of your time. Please continue to enjoy your evening."
"We will." Jade replies curtly, eyes boring into Azul until he's out of view. He turns to you, composure back in place, which only makes you want to laugh more. You pretend you didn't notice it, taking another bite from your dish.
"You know..." You catch his attention, making him look inquisitively at you. "Your plate looks really good too. What is it?"
"Interested, are we? It's a mushroom risotto, made with mushrooms I collected on my mountain expeditions."
"Oh, I think I saw one similar to this on the cafeteria once!"
"Yes, the club contributes with foraging some of the ingredients used on the cafeteria's dishes."
"Woah, that's so cool. How come I didn't know this?"
"You didn't ask." His eyes wrinkle at the corner, clearly pleased with your praise to his beloved club.
"How was I supposed to ask this? It's way too specific!"
"Hm, I suppose it is."
You stick your tongue at him, knowing it's just like Jade to pull something like this. "As recompensation, I want a bite!"
"It does taste delicious." He takes another bite and chews slowly, eyes locked with yours the entire time.
"C'mon Jade! Please?" You bat your lashes at him playfully, although it seems to have some effect. He gets a good amount of it on his fork before lifting it to your lips. You take it eagerly, humming.
"Well?" There's a certain antecipation on his tone.
"You're right, it tastes as good as it looks. Which is saying a lot."
"If you would like, I can cook it for you on another occasion."
Your eyes widen, the sincerity on his voice taking you by surprise.
"For free?"
"Of course, I wouldn't charge you for it. It would be my pleasure, truly."
"Then I accept! We could cook it together at Ramshackle sometime next week."
"That would be perfect."
"It's a date then." You wink at him, patting yourself on the back for your smoothness.
"Enjoying this one so much you can't wait for another?" He answers with a smirk, tilting his head, his earrings tilting alongside it.
"How could I not enjoy it with such a charming gentleman across me?"
"You will make me blush if you keep saying things like this, prefect."
"That means it's working! You'll fall in love with me in no time."
You chuckle, but Jade's gaze only softens. His eyes look so tender it makes your breath catch on your throat. You can't look away from him, from the way his smile curves just right.
"Can I bring the dessert now?" Floyd asks, making both of you turn to him in surprise. He scratches the back of his neck and stand casually at the end of the table as if he hadn't sneaked his way to it.
"We haven't finished eating yet."
"So?"
The twins hold eye contact for a few seconds, surely having some conversation you stand clueless about.
"So. You can bring it later."
"Ah? But it's ready, shouldn't I bring it now? Shrimpy would like it fresh, right? You were the one that said that!"
Jade sighs at his brother stubborness. You stifle another giggle.
"Floyd, I don't mind eating it a bit after it was done. I'd prefer to finish the main dish first."
"Hm, if Shrimpy says so. I'll see ya in a bit."
"Now he listens..." Jade comments as you both watch him leaving. The frustation in his voice is a little funny, honestly. You sip on your drink.
It goes on like this. As your conversation with Jade follows it's usual course, Azul and Floyd interrupt constantly, always with a different excuse. You can see Jade getting fed up with their antics, but as much as you sympatize with him, you can't help but find the whole thing rather amusing.
Dessert consists of a mouth watering strawberry shortcake, the whipped cream melting in your tongue, the strawberries, coated in sugar, fresh and sweet, the cake fluffy. You make a different pleased sound at every bite, savoring it to the max. Jade seems fixated on your reactions, not paying nearly as much attention to his own slice as he's doing to you.
The jazz on the background takes a slower rhythm, as if accompanying the passage of the night. You feel at ease, smiling at Jade once you finish eating your slice. His intent gaze on you holding an unspoken weight, affection shining through. It makes your own feelings scream at you to do something, and that's what you do. It feels right to take his hand resting onto the table and interwine your fingers with his.
The touch of your hands sends eletricity through his skin, shocking his heart. Your eyes are littered with stars as you look at him, the colorful sea life reflecting on them beautifully. You look beautiful. The way his name falls from your lips, dripping as sweet as honey, makes him want to hear you say it again and again. He's addicted to your charm, letting himself drown on it.
Jade wants to confess his feelings to you at that moment, spill his mushy insides in your palms, transfer the warmth from his chest to your cheeks. He licks his lips, glancing at yours looking so inviting and soft, and opens his mouth to say it, to give you the key to his heart, to trust you and give himself to you fully, to be frighteningly open.
Before a single word can make it past his throat, there's a loud crash on the background that breaks the moment, making you jump and look around in alarm. Never in his life has Jade felt so frustrated, teeth digging through his bottom lip so hard he feels the coppery taste of blood.
There's a hiss of Floyd's name and a slurred complaint of Azul's. The two emerge from the bar, looking slightly frazzled.
"Are you two ok?" You ask, more curious than concerned.
"Perfectly. No need to worry about us." Azul smooths out his shirt, not really looking you in the eyes.
"Shrimpy, when are you gonna make a move?" Floyd pouts, arms crossed.
Jade's glare is a promise of pain in the future for the two that dared to interrupt him once more. How could Azul and Floyd be so irritating when they were supposed to be helping him? He makes to get up and have a talk with them in private, being at the limit of his patience, but you hold his hand closer to yourself, making him stay put.
"If you two leave us to have a private moment I'll do it."
His eyes widen at your boldness, no hint of a joke in your tone.
"Bet. C'mon Azul, let's leave the lovebirds alone." Floyd basically drags Azul away with him, finally leaving the two of you.
"Prefect..."
You don't let him continue, bringing his hand closer to your heart, to the shell necklace, and taking a deep breath before letting it all out, looking at him in the eyes the entire time. You feel a rush of energy run through your nerves, the moment you've been waiting for finally having arrived.
"Jade, I really like you. I enjoy every moment I spend by your side, even when you can't give me your full attention. I know I'm in your thoughts and you're in mine, too. I love to hear you talking about your interests and I feel safe when I'm with you. You have my trust and my affections. My heart beats faster because of you. These are my heartfelt emotions. I'd be really happy if you feel the same for me, my pearl."
You close your eyes, bringing his hand to your lips and kissing his knuckles, holding it tenderly. Your thumb press against his pulse point, relief flooding you at confirming it's as accelerated as your own. Your look at him through your lashes, seeing his face is coated in the pretty pink you love so much.
He calls you by your name, each letter molding perfectly to his lips, as if it was choosen to be said by him. "Do you have any idea of the effect you have on me?"
You smile gently, squeezing his hand and letting it go. "Hm, no, I don't think so. Please, elaborate on it."
Jade gets up from his seat, standing in front of you before kneeling down, taking your hand in a similar way you did with his.
"Jade, don't you think it's a bit early to ask for my hand in marriage?"
He chuckles, his face radiating so much fondness there's no doubt in your mind that he reciprocates. He takes your hand to cup his cheek while he speaks, nuzzling into it and looking up at you, making himself vulnerable, as close to a lovesick expression as you'd ever see on him.
"Dearest, I'm most devoted to you. There's not a day that passes by without you filling up my thoughts. You have carved your way into my heart in a way none were able to before. I want to give you anything you may wish for, as long as you'll give me the one thing I ask of you. Would you allow me the pleasure of belonging to you, just as you would belong to me?"
Your thumb brushes against his skin, passing through and pulling on his lips as your lidded eyes take them in. Jade lets you do as you please, a show of great trust from someone as guarded as him.
"Of course. I'd love to."
It's fascinating, the way a smile blooms on his face and his eyes light up, as if you had promised to give him the world. Perhaps you had, you just didn't know it. Your hand pulls him closer, making him get up and put his hands on your shoulders, leaning in, foreheads touching.
"I recall you saying something about wanting to hold me and kiss me, right? What are you waiting for?"
That makes him pause. "Wait. Were you listening to me on that day, at the botanical garden?"
"Maybe, maybe not, who knows." You sing song, the glint of amusement dancing in your eyes enough to answer him. He chuckles incredulously, wondering just how used to your presence he was to not have noticed you approaching him then.
"How secretive of you, prefect." He sounds proud as he says it. Maybe he's rubbing off on you after spending so much time together. "Very well. If that is what you wish for, I will do it." His thumb and forefinger hold onto your chin, tilting your head to meet his easier. "May I?" His low voice, laced with desire and yearning leaves you breathless before the kiss even has started. You whisper your consent, closing your eyes in antecipation.
Jade, the bastard, teases you by leaving a little kiss by the corner of your mouth before grazing his lips against yours in a feather like touch, making a needy noise leave your throat. You can feel his smile against your lips, his hot breath mixing with yours, his nose brushing against yours in a tender gesture before your lips finally meet with a firm yet gentle hold.
He tastes like strawberries. You let out a delighted groan, your hands coming up behind his head to play with his hair, pulling him even closer to you.
As he makes to pull away, you nibble on his lip, getting a surprising whine in response. It only fuels you, the sound reverbating through your head like a prayer. It sure felt like a holy experience, to get such a sound from him.
His face is flushed a pale pink and his hair is messy, lips red from kissing. It's the most beautiful sight you've ever seen. You're sure you don't look much better, but you can't bring yourself to care, the ecstasy pumping your blood and making your heart race.
Your cheeks hurt from how wide they're being spread by your smile, one so sincere you couldn't fight it even if you wanted to. You brush your nose against his, making a loving sigh escape his lips.
"...How do you like it?" For once in his life, Jade Leech let's himself be vulnerable, completly at your mercy. You feel powerful, at the top of the world having him in your palms like that, drinking up the sight. Although you know, he's got you just as good.
"Strawberries."
There's confusion on his voice as he repeats the word, taken aback by how suddenly you said it, how firm your tone was. You bury your face on his neck, whispering your answer against his skin.
"You taste like strawberries. My favorite."
"Oh. I see it was a good idea to have strawberries on our dessert." There's the usual satisfied tone on his voice by knowing his plan was a success.
"You planned this?" You laugh, knowing you should have expected it from him. There is a buzzing of contentment swallowing you whole, fondness swimming in your chest.
"Naturally. I wanted it to be a most joyous experience."
"Well, you succeded. You taste delicious." You lick your lips for extra effect, nuzzling your head on his neck and leaving a little bite. "Still do."
You can feel the shivers of his skin against your lips. You pull on his hair a bit and hear the yearning sigh he lets out. It's exhilirating. You pull away, coming face to face with his lovely infatuated expression, one reserved just for you.
"One more?"
"As you wish, my dear."
Your lips meet once more, the pressure of his against yours making you light headed. It's wonderful, he's wonderful. You could get used to this.
Unfortunately, the moment is broken by the loud cheers and polite clapping from the backgroung. Floyd whistles as Azul congratulates you two. Jade's hands' grip on your shoulders tightens and you can feel the annoyance from before coming back tenfold, his red and swollen lips not making his sadistic smile any less treathining.
"And just what do the two of you think you are doing? Haven't you interrupted enough?"
Your head falls back on his shoulder, not being able to hold your laughter anymore, your giggles against his ear making him soften the slightest bit, almost enough to forgive the two noisy merman. Almost.
He could deal with them later. Right now, he had much better things to do, as your breath tickling his neck reminds him.
Jade Leech is not one for sentimentalism... perhaps he could make an exception for you.
Masterlist
🌷- 𝑭𝖑𝖚𝖋𝖋
💐- 𝑨𝖓𝖌𝖘𝖙
🌻- 𝑪𝖗𝖆𝖈𝖐
🌼- 𝑯𝖊𝖆𝖉𝖈𝖆𝖓𝖓𝖔𝖓𝖘
🌺- 𝑺𝖚𝖌𝖌𝖊𝖘𝖙𝖎𝖛𝖊 (𝜨𝜪𝜯 𝑺𝜧𝑼𝜯)
Yuu that Fidgets 🌼Ft Riddle, Leona, Kalim, Vil, Idia, Malleus
Reader really likes Moray Eels 🌼ft Jade, Floyd, Lilia
Pirate Fairy UM 🌼ft. Deuce, Jade, Jamil, Vil, Idia, Malleus
𝑭𝖔𝖝𝖌𝖑𝖔𝖛𝖊𝖕𝖓𝖌™
Hold on... does that count with the painting of malleus in sebek room?
It would be funny if you could lol
When you remember that paintings can talk in TWST:
You can't forget about Rosalia from Cater's vignette, she's lonely too.