ride away

admiring from a distant | INTJ | request open | sometimes idk what I wrote but if its enjoyable I'll keep writing

[dasher85]

Story List

Just to keep things neat.

Updating the list whenever something new is added...

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currently in progress list:

1. Life - Alhaitham X Reader

2. Rain - Neuvillette X Reader: Part 3

3.  your duke - Wriothesley X Reader

A/N: Do not reupload / copy my writings on any other sites.

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1. Seashore Series: K. Ayato X Reader (written before Ayato was released)

 Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

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2. Inexpressible Series:  K. Ayato X Reader

Inexpressible  : Where it all begins

The sequence of Inexpressible: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | Shattered | 13 | 14 | 15

Extra before (Part 6: Unconditional), Little happenings: 1 | 2 | 3

An alternative ending: Gone

Short Story Collection featuring Inexpressible Duo: Late Night | Oblivion | Threat | Played | Winter | tenderness | vanilla | cat |  desserts | cooking | R. yours | unplanned | groceries | gift |

Additional AU: 3600 Seconds |

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3. Elucidation Series: Alhaitham X Reader

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6

Short Story Collection featuring Elucidation Duo: 11/2 | emotions | depleted | dust | lost | fireflies |

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4. Neuvillette 

Rain - short story: Neuvillette X Reader

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5. Random

Dream - K. Ayato x reader

Do you Know? - K. Ayato x reader

Wish I was your Lover - K. Ayato x reader

Colors - K. Ayato X reader

Calls

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6. Asks | Requests

1 | 2 |

[dasher85]

Rain..

He theoretically understand the concept of love

Neuvillette x Reader | y/n | you

short story

Part 1 | Part 2

[ how can you love someone when you don't have a reason? ]

---------------------------

[ Two years ago ]

The first day of work you didn’t think to see the Chief of Justice but you did.

You were in charge of handling the new case files as well as writing specific paperworks for the court. It was your specialty so you’re confident to do a good job for those tasks.

On your way back to your desk after getting some refreshments, someone was walking ahead towards your empty desk. The first thing your eyes noticed was the man’s waist long white hair with two blue navy coloured strands. 

‘It’s just like an insect’s antenna but combed neatly’. You secretly thought after seeing those two blue navy strands of his hair. Fortunately, you didn’t laugh like a madwoman for thinking such bizarre thoughts.

His slow and calm footsteps have forced you to follow his walking pace until you could reach your desk. It was a little awkward because it feels like an eternity to you.

The sole of his shoes echoed through the place and somehow you couldn’t help but walk a little quietly. Just a few more steps he’ll pass by your table and your silent suffering will end.

Or so you thought.

Suddenly he stopped right in front of your desk and you halted as well. He turned, facing your desk and you could see his side profile from where you stood. Instinctively you feel like turning around and act as if you forgot to take something from the refreshment room.

But before you could move, the man wearing a formal navy blue attire turned his head towards you. There were other workers working on their desk accompanied with an ambience of a usual office atmosphere but to you the world suddenly fell silent.

‘Is that the Chief Justice, Neuvillette?’. You finally remembered that man whom you’ve seen before during trials in court. You’ve heard about him many times and see him from afar but never this close.

His enchantingly unnatural blue eyes met your gaze as he suddenly turned to face where you were silently standing. Reflexively, you politely bowed with a slight smile.

‘What the hell?! What the hell!’. You nervously screamed in mind repeating those words like a chant.

Unexpectedly he expressionlessly slightly bowed back in response to you. Truthfully, you didn’t know what to do after that exchange of wordless courtesy.

“Do you perhaps know the person who’s occupying this desk?”. His deep voice rings in your ears.

“I uh… that’s-”. Taken aback for a brief second your mouth didn’t seem to cooperate with your mind.

“It’s… That’s me. What can I help you Sir?”. You quickly responded professionally.

That was your first encounter with that respected and yet mysterious man. Oddly enough despite harbouring various negative thoughts towards him, you didn't think it was all a false assumption until you've had enough encounters with him during work hours. 

Most of his direct visits would be because of the wrong things you've done in your work. Imperfections or flaws, things that even your colleagues couldn't distinguish. Despite that, he never scolded you and calmly corrected or advised what needed to be changed. Those frequent corrections last for three months. At some point you even thought of quitting just because he would complain about missing punctuation marks.

Fortunately, you did get better and become an absolute particular about everything before you send those papers to him. You couldn't afford to start everything all over again every time something was written wrong.

[ One year ago ]

A lady whom her partner was responsible for a crime was sentenced to serve a few years in the fortress of Meropide. It was rather serious but at the same time can be considered a normal case that has been conducted fairly. 

As one of the workers in court, the lady turns out to be an old acquaintance of yours from your previous work. So naturally she would refer to you, asking if you could help to reduce his sentence. Obviously things like that were impossible to change once the judgment of the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale concluded the trial. Everyone should know that but perhaps you were the only person she could share such meaningless concerns with. 

For a whole week she would visit your desk and all you could do was try to repeat the same thing in a calm manner. It was a professional process but at the same time it was unnecessary. Your coworkers didn’t know what to do either since she wasn’t being violent.

When Neuvillette learned of this matter from other workers who were talking about it during their lunch break, he went to confirm it with you. However, without even asking he had already seen what was happening.

You didn't think the Chief Justice would care about trivial things nor did you expect to see him standing there in front of your desk during lunch hour. 

"Ma'am. With all due respect, it is inconvenient to question the court's staff. As the Chief Justice, I shall assist you with an appropriate solution. Please make an appointment for a meeting with me tomorrow." Neuvillette expressionlessly spoke. 

You quietly stood there feeling relieved that someone would professionally reason with this pleading woman. As of late, you only wished to have a peaceful day but you didn’t think he would be the one who’ll throw himself into that situation.

[ Present time ]

"...will you keep it?". Neuvillette implored, looking at your face with a soft smile as he leaned closer to your face.

And here it comes without warning… he has yet again placed himself in a situation that you’d never imagined he would be in. That question he spoke circulating inside your head like a spell but you wonder why…

“Why now? Why?”. That question comes out of your mouth without hesitation and yet your voice was trembling with an evident quiver.

“That’s because…”. Neuvillette gaze falters away from you, he didn’t know what to say. Did he even have a reason in the first place? 

“It’s alright. I was being impulsive… I’m sorry”. You gently spoke, cutting his word short as you quickly removed his gloved hand away from your left cheek. It was unreasonable to ask these questions that you knew he wouldn't have an answer to. 

“Look at me, y/n! Tell me exactly what you want to hear, something to enlighten those ears.” He unhesitatingly questions with a solemn frown.

You scoffed. He's making you feel so much rage and disappointment but guilty at the same time. It's infuriating to think that he's only using your emotions to understand himself but you couldn't get angry either because he's not even human to begin with. If perhaps he did understand your feelings there wasn't much he could do for you anyway. 

The difference between him and you is not something you could easily go up against just for your own selfishness.

"It's nothing". You quietly looked away in response.

"I just think… if I tell you, it'll be meaningless. I don't want you to understand me just because I want you to." You slowly added as you unwaveringly met his gaze. 

"But I…". He looked at you pleadingly.

"...I really want to understand you. I still didn't have the answer to your question and I couldn't understand myself either. It pains me so much that I kept thinking about you". He adds soulfully.

"No books could tell me about your thoughts, about your feelings, about how you perceived this world or me… I want to know these things, these little things that you've kept secret from me. Please enlighten me". He spoke slowly but a hint of desperation was clearly evident within his deep voice.

"I know you're trying to understand me… I-". You tried to belittle his reasons yet again. 

“I'm denying all the deception you speak of… it is only fair to speak out the truth”. He voiced the disconcerting things that had been kept inside his mind.

[ Eleven months ago ]

“Would you like a cup of coffee or tea?”. You questioned him with a small smile.

"A glass of water would be nice". He responded with a nod.

Unquestioningly you nodded in response, not surprised since that was what he would often request over any other drinks. After washing the glass available from the refreshment room you brought back a glass of water for him.

You would sometimes do these little gestures while he checked your documents every few times in a week. It actually felt a little awkward whenever you just stood in front of his office desk as he reviewed your work. So the idea of taking small tasks such as that was better to pass up some time.

He looked up at you and you thought you've made a mistake yet again with your paperwork.

"I've been wondering if you've been adding sugar into the water?". He suddenly asked before handing you the file of documents.

You took it already wondering if you could file in the documents into the record room. "No, it's fontaine regular filtered water".

"Is that so…" He paused, seemingly thinking of the matter.

"Yes." You want to ask him about the status of the documents but you didn't dare to cut through his words either.

He suddenly stood up, "Are there macaroons?"

You nodded, "Yes, would you like me to bring it for you?"

He nods.

"And about these documents?"

He looked at you briefly before seemingly just remembering the matter, "Leave it on my desk"

You nodded and did as told before heading out to take some macarons from the refreshment room. As you were just a few steps outside, you heard the door to his office open again. You turned your head over your shoulder only to see the chief justice walking out.

"Do you perhaps need something else?"

"I need another glass of water"

You nodded and he only walked towards you which you least expected. Despite that you didn't think much and just proceeded with your given task. Oddly enough, he ended up accompanying you to the refreshment room.

'He should've just got the macaroons himself or asked me to get the glass of water as well'. You think to yourself.

It's one of those feelings where you'd feel awkward to be in a room with your boss at work. Despite doing nothing wrong, it just wasn't that enjoyable. Perhaps seeing his face reminds you of your unfinished work.

He immediately took a glass of water and slowly drank it as if it was wine.

"I shall send this to your office room now". You informed him after arranging a few macaroons into a plate.

He looked at you, "If I may ask, where did you acquire the water?".

He spoke of that same odd question again.

"It's from here".

"Hmm…". He seems to ponder seemingly thinking about matter with a slight frown. 

"Did you perhaps forget to wash the glass before filling it up with water?"

"Of course not, I'd make sure to clean it". You started to feel worried about these odd questions.

"Forgive me, I simply wanted to know why the water you gave me tasted so different from regular Fontaine water". He explained as if sensing through your troubled facial expression. 

You couldn't help but slightly laugh, "How would… how would it taste any different?"

[ Present time ]

The truth? You sighed at his request.

"Fine." You nodded before walking towards the bench nearby. There weren't many passersby but rather than standing you'd at least minimise the odd occurrence between him and you.

It was crazy enough that he's seen outside instead of in the court. 

"This feels so awkward". You admitted as he sat down next to you.

He sighed, he already did and say all those insane things just for you to listen to him and yet you still think the whole situation is awkward. He didn't quite get it. Was he the problem here? 

"Right, so the truth…" You subconsciously placed both of your hands to cover your face. Turns out it was difficult to say these simple things.

"You know it already, why are you making me say this". You whined, trying to escape from saying it.

"Whatever it is, I'll believe you. Please, go on ahead and tell me". His eyes glistened as he blinked his eyes to gently hold his gaze onto yours, but you couldn't read his thoughts and intentions as his expression remained gentle and calm, the only thing out of the ordinary was the way he looked at you, which couldn't seem to break its connection with yours.

Without a single word he moved his head close to your cheek, before softly kissing it as a sign to reassure you once more.

Your resolute thoughts to reject him crumble down into a hazy fog of lightness, as if your soul was being pulled into a realm of fairies where the sparkling pixie dust would blind your judgments.

You gasped, your own lungs forced you to breathe. It felt like he was veiling you with an enchantment and you couldn't help but doubt your feelings for him once more.

"I…". You turned to face him with your eyes closed. Somehow, you knew that looking at him directly would only eliminate your focus.

"I love you very much. I know it's silly, maybe I'm just infatuated and to be honest I have no plausible reasons behind these feelings." You sighed.

"Before it's too late, I'd rather-" 

A wide smile crept up his lips. That was exactly what he wanted to hear. He waited for a long time. 

"You..." He suddenly spoke and you opened your eyes to look at him. 

In that instant you forgot the sentence you wanted to tell him. 'Before it's too late, I'd rather let you go' was what you wanted to say but those damn beautiful eyes have left your mind devoid of thoughts. All that was left was your lingering fondness for him. 

He stared into your eyes before he gently placed his forehead against yours. His warm breath brushed against your skin, yet he was also as silent as you were for a few seconds. 

"It was you... It has always been you."

He brushed his thumb against your cheek, his gaze unshakably focused on you.

"You're everything I've ever wanted, please don't tell me otherwise because how am I supposed to believe my own judgements when I can't even understand myself."

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A/N: intentionally wanted them to be emotionally difficult XD and here I am having a difficult time trying to put on their shoes. I hope his story quest (which I haven't do) will give me inspo for part 3. I want to reveal some truth about him towards her. But of course, let me know if I should continue this.

The Duke's story is halfway done but then I've started another Hai's story (the regular Elucidation Duo) and I miss writing the Inexpressible Duo.

[dasher85]

Today's random is about Genshin spoiler from 4.1,

thoughts about Neuvilette:

"Melusine race perceives the world very differently from humans"

I did not expect game lore to say something like that. If that was a coincidence, I'm enjoying it for sure.

I've written about y/n's question for him to answer

(short story part 1: Rain)

"Have you ever thought about how the world perceived itself?" "…or how did I perceive you?"

and now I guess I need to write a really odd reason XD

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thoughts about Wriothesley:

I'm still collecting data about this character but he feels like a character from a manhwa. very interesting indeed

[dasher85]

I was looking through my saved screenshot and I forgot he legit said something like that so casually in game

[dasher85]

May I know your zodiac sign?

Yes,

My zodiac sign is Leo.

[dasher85]

Today's random,

I wanna write about Wriothesley rn but idk anything about him. It's so funny. Should it be a prison date? XD

Perhaps I should just focus on getting those Dynamic Gear for his ascension mat.

But seriously, I'm curious if between these two: who would you guys choose?

Between

Neuvillette

Wriothesley

Voting ended onSep 22, 2023

[dasher85]

Rain

He theoretically understand the concept of love

Neuvillette x Reader | y/n | you

short story

Part 1 | Part 2

sad theme (supposedly)

[ and all that I want is to finally be honest ]

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"Have you ever thought about how the world perceived itself?"

That same question has been haunting Neuvilette's mind for a while now. He couldn't find the answer to it. At least a perfect response to the person who has spoken of such a question. 

The truth is, the question itself wasn't the only thing that lingers in his mind. If it was just a question he would've already thought of an answer within at least a few days and yet that wasn't the case for his heart was devastatingly shattered by the next thing that came after.

"...or how did I perceive you?" 

Words you've said. What was so meaningful about it? He has heard a billion excuses and pleas in the high court and yet he couldn't easily let go of this. He was hurt but he didn't know how to admit it. You didn't give him a chance to realise anything or at least let him think of an answer. 

'What was it again? The cause of it all?'. He questions himself as he recalled that day when he was left alone and his cheeks were damp not even because of the rain. 

He stood up and picked up the stack of files on his desk. Important cases, criminal's identity and the jurisdiction records. Time does seem to fly in his office space but even after all this time his soul has been stuck in that same place.

'What could've happened if I had the correct answer right then and there?'. His mind has been occupied despite being monotonously unexpressive. He sighed as he arranged all the files accordingly based on alphabetical order into the shelves.

He doesn't know it either. He wasn't human to begin with so it's understandable if he lacks in these situations and yet he blamed himself for it.

Neuvilette returns to his seat and for a brief moment he stares back towards the front door. As if expecting someone to enter the door but of course no one did.

The weather outside hasn't stopped raining for a while now. The gloominess inside his office and the grey sky outside reflects his beating heart.

He then resumes to write down a record for today's court report. Just like any other day, he was busy. He used to feel obligated to do all these things because it was only natural for someone who holds the position as the Chief Justice.

"Neuvilette, how about a cup of coffee…". He snaps his head up and unexpectedly it was just his imagination. A soft melodic voice that has been ingrained in his mind. His expression unchanged but he felt disappointed because it was all a mere fraction of his memory.

'Why did I even say that?'. Neuvilette finally remembered or actually he finally realised his actions. It was all because of him. It wasn't anything harsh but he was just trying to be considerate. He didn't want to trouble anyone, especially you but why did things turn out this way? 

It's true that he can focus with work and that things are a lot more progressive without distraction but why does he feel uncharacteristically empty? He didn't understand it either but somehow this feeling was more overwhelming than the times when a trial was over.

'What was it that I really wanted?'. He thought while exhaling heavily. His mind and his actions are purely contradictory with each other. He needs an answer, he needs a break and he needs to collect his thoughts but his work is important too. 

"Where have you been?"

--------------------

You smiled softly at the nice smell of sweetness coming from the warm hot chocolate drink. The ceramic mug held in between your hands.

It's been raining outside ever since you stopped working for the court. So, the temperature is a little cold and having something warm was a really good decision.

Life has been quite peaceful without headaches or unnecessary expectations. At least that's what you thought about your previous ordeal.

You shook your head sideways profusely to remove the thoughts about those days. It was so childish and immature to expect anything more than working your job diligently. You should've stayed professional and not get caught into a one sided love. It was all too embarrassing when you think about it now.

'It's alright… My feelings won't harm anyone and I know there's always someone who'll be better for me'. 

You nodded reassuringly to yourself as you slowly drank the sweet hot chocolate. Just the right amount to dissipate your lingering feelings. If time is forgiving, in just a few months you'll eventually learn to accept things as they are. As long as you keep yourself away from the court or that specific individual, your heart would surely mend itself.

The slight ambience from the coffee shop was quite calming as you calmly gazed through the clear glass window outside.

"Y/n… you're here". His deep voice was calm and yet a hint of excitement was evident as he spoke over your head.

You snapped your head towards the source who has called your name without notice. In that instant, you felt like your stomach dropped into a bottomless pit and a mix of overwhelming feelings returned into your heart.

Your once calm expression twisted into one that of pain and sadness. Out of all people, your heart is unprepared to meet him again. Not yet. Not when you're trying to forget about him. Not when you're trying to move on. Why did it have to be him?

He stood there with a small smile appearing on his lips but upon meeting your gaze, his smile slowly disappeared. 

Neuvilette knew his presence wasn't how it used to be. It's true that he didn't know human emotions any better but he has seen human's facial expressions numerous times to the point where he can differentiate between happiness and sorrow.

He wanted to go and listened to your pleading stare, listened to your wistful unspoken wishes… He knew you didn't want him there and that his mere presence was hurting you.

Neuvilette knew that much… you didn't need to tell him. Even for someone like him, he would still understand that look on your face. 

However, just like how he wished all the villains should serve justice, he still stubbornly stood there. Staying on his ground like a shattered fragment of glass in between a bleeding wound.

He opened his mouth to say something but no words came out. He didn't know what to say to you. Should he apologise? Should he tell his feelings? Should he act oblivious?

"Y/n, I…"

You quickly stood up and walked away from there, leaving your warm cup of chocolate drink unfinished. You didn't want to get involved with him anymore for you only want what's best for your already crumbling heart.

If you stayed any longer, you would've broken into a crying mess. It's embarrassing and you've cried enough for your damn unrequited love. It was time to move on now. Your heart has suffered enough and it's your own responsibility to protect it from harm.

Unhesitatingly, you run to your heart's content without looking back. You didn't care if people would question your actions but you knew that'll keep you away from him.

Eventually you reached somewhere far, somewhere you thought he couldn't reach or find you. You just need time for yourself and anywhere is fine so long as you're away from him. You started to walk aimlessly as you caught your breath from your unplanned escape.

'I'll be alright'. You thought. 

Suddenly, your wrist was grabbed as the person spun you around in an instant. You didn't have time to react as you met with his unwavering gaze once more. 

You didn't say a word as realisation struck into your mind but you were quick to struggle away from his hold in an attempt to free yourself.

"Please… Y/n, let me just-"

He didn't let go. His grip wasn't hurting you but it was impossible to break free from the mere fingers that were encircling around your thin wrist. 

"I don't want to!". You started to feel agitated by the situation.

He sighed, he didn't want to make things worse as it already was but a side of him was reluctant to let you go. If he did, he knew you'd walk away without hesitation and his effort would be in vain.

"Y/n!". He raised his voice just enough to make you stop from struggling.

Neuvilette was nervous. He was so scared that he'll fail to receive enlightenment for his own feelings. If he couldn't give a good answer, he should at least get an appropriate explanation from you. 

"Listen…". His usual calm voice returns once he knew your attention was on him. Even if it was for a brief moment he needs you to listen.

"You asked me about how someone perceives things, about the world… about you". He reminds you of those questions you've asked him before you quit working at the court. 

You quietly listened but you've averted your gaze away from him. Those questions were all just a useless bitter taste in your heart. 

"I… I still don't know what you meant by that. I don't know the answer to that but…"

"I don't care anymore. I don't need your answer". You cut through his words so fast before he could end his sentence.

He was still holding your wrist but his calm expression instantly twisted into a pained frown. It reflects his heart deeply.

"...I'm sorry". He spoke almost in a hushed whisper.

"So stop talking to me! and just go…". Your rage slowly quiets down as your gaze returns towards him. Droplets of warm tears softly landed on your face as he looked down at you. 

He didn't speak and neither did you. The both of you stood there in between the unfamiliar tension of emotions. You didn't understand why he was crying neither can he fathom the reasons behind your anger. It was confusing and yet laughable. 

You sighed, the sight of the Chief justice crying himself because of you felt unreal to you but you knew he was just being honest. You knew you made him cry for simply being expressive of your anger.

"Stop crying… you… you don't look like yourself". You quietly mumbled under your breath as you tried to keep your cool attached yet a part of you wanted to console him.

He didn't, that didn't make him stop from crying. That grown man, who's taller than you, quietly cried like a small child being told to do their difficult maths homework on their own.

"Alright, I'll… I'll listen to you". You slowly added with a heavy sigh.

"Really?". He calmly questions. Despite sulking in messy tears, his voice seems to lack any unclear clarity. It was as if the voice barely belonged to a person who's crying.

You nodded and slowly returned your gaze to meet his enchantingly unnatural blue eyes. His sad gaze feels ethereal as the beauty of nature itself.

"Then could you please explain to me… tell me the answer to your question." His beautiful eyes still glistened with tears but he seems a lot calmer than before.

Neuvilette's innocent demands for your answer felt unnecessarily weird. How could he ask you that when humans not only have difficult unexplainable emotions but ego and pride?

Should you say it directly? You were so close to moving on from these feelings. If you explain that to him, would anything change? You didn't want to give a hint of hope inside your heart for that love anymore. It's unbearable if things stay the same. If you were being honest, you wanted more than just him to understand your feelings. 

"It's alright if you don't know the answer. It means that my question was just a bunch of baloney"

Unlike his usual calm facial expression, his eyes widened in response to your remarks, "You're lying. Tell me the truth!"

His words struck your heart like piercing lightning in a thunderous rain. You nervously looked away from his gaze. He was right.

Despite that, you shook your head refusing to tell him. You slowly reached out a hand in an attempt to wipe away the evident tears on his cheeks but you hesitated. After all, who would've been so insane to touch a person's face without clear reasons. You're well aware that you're just a stranger to him.

Neuvilette didn't move away neither did he say a word but instead he brought his face to lean into the palm of your hand. His smooth clear skin in contact with your bare hands felt a little odd to you but somehow your restless heart feels startlingly at peace with the soothing warmth.

His eyes calmly closed, seemingly appreciating your touch. You noticed that he seems unusually happy because of such simple reasons or was it just your own imagination playing tricks on you?

"I feel-"

The moment his mouth started to speak you retreated your hands away from him. The conscience in you feels reluctant to be in a vulnerable state once more. You're in this constant battle of removing yourself from harm but at the same time you still want to place a glimmer of hope. Which you knew you shouldn't considering that he's unable to perceive you more than you wished him to be.

He opened his eyes to meet your gaze. As he stared back deep into your gaze, he could feel the intense rejection even before he tried anything. Where did he go wrong? He has so many unanswered questions but where should he start first? 

"You should know that I feel suffocated with sadness when I can't see you anymore and it's unfair that you're avoiding me now"

Your disappointment slowly returned into your heart. To you, he was a lost cause but wasn't it too harsh to say it too soon? Your heart was torn in between.

"Unfair? What are you spouting about?". You snickered coldly with your eyes unwaveringly gazing up at him. 

He looked away to the side at your distaste directed on him but he courageously kept his hands securely holding on to your wrist. He hasn't given up and he won't let go.

Neuvilette knew that it was better to keep quiet when humans were in rage but he still wondered if the things he wanted to say would change your mind. Even just a little, would it amend things between you and him?

"...because maybe after all this time, I thought things weren't bad between us". He turned his head towards you once more. A sense of calmness returned when he spoke his mind.

"It wasn't. I was the problem but you don't need to worry… just give me more time and maybe someday we can finally be friends"

"So now? What about now?". He spoke without much hesitation and dismissed the things you’ve told him.

His question pushed you like a tsunami. What was he talking about? Was he giving hope? You want to cry so damn much because it was still painful despite your efforts to move on. It's only been a week since your efforts to forget about him but obviously that wasn't even near to erase your lingering feelings.

"I… I don't know. Why don't you tell me?".

Admittingly you still want something out of this. Perhaps him being here holds something significant for you. It must mean something that he hasn't told you. Maybe you should give him a chance. But would you let him fix it? Would you dare to step into the hand he was trying to give you? Or can he even be that someone?

You're scared to hope and yet you still want him to tell you something more. Something that could at least make you feel better.

Neuvilette searched your face in an attempt to find a definitive answer from you.

"It was really difficult to find you". He starts.

It's true, you were extremely careful with your whereabouts despite the chances are already insignificant due to the nature of his busy schedule. You refrained from walking outside and purchased groceries only when you knew there was an ongoing trial. Such as today, it was said that he was supposed to be in an important court session.

"It's because you were busy". You simply added.

"But I get to meet you today". He replied with a soft voice.

You always thought why did you even fall in love with him in the first place? He barely even smiles or does anything besides his responsibility in the court. He was that boring if you were to compare him with your preferred ideals. What nonsense has had your heart trapped into this?

"Maybe I should travel somewhere else so that we wouldn't meet again". You sarcastically replied under your breath.

"If you do that then… I'll come with you". He responded without a second thought. Your words have yet again driven him into the corner of his own emotions. If he doesn't speak now it'll be too late. 

You scoffed as you shook your head in complete disbelief, "Sure, even a child would believe you".

"You could do anything to me, you can run, you can hide but I won't let you escape my love". He suddenly spoke with conviction.

"You're bluffing, who are you to talk about love?". Those words came out of his mouth so suddenly that you became defensive. 

"If you feel like leaving. I'm not going to beg you to stay because it's your rights". He calmly spoke but with a hint of confidence as he ignored your statements.

You took a step back and he took a step forward.

"This regret has filled me with a sadness that has haunted me for a week". He then admitted.

"I'm aware that I've been dismissing you whenever you want to help me but I never intended for you to handle my responsibilities.". He paused to look at you.

"Perhaps you didn't like that good gesture of mine but I'll make sure to listen to you from now on". He opened his mouth to say something but seemingly hesitated.

"So maybe I should hold my heart out for you to take but…". He gently held both of your trembling hands and brought it in between the both of you.

"...will you keep it?"

------[ yes | no ]-------

A/N: and so I shall see how this will go...

[dasher85]

may I know what's your favorite trope? and how's your life lately?

Types of trope,

Soulmates. Those type of things that both could feel the strong attraction or keep coincidentally running into each other. Also they think about each other like a plague XD

Forbidden love is also interesting just because of the element of angst or if in fantasy theme.

------------

Life update, I'm doing fairly well... just been reading a lot of manhwa / manga (or catching up with watching some kdrama / anime) . I've been exploring Fontaine as well, gaming in general.

[dasher85]

Gift

featuring our Inexpressible duo

Kamisato Ayato x reader | y/n | you

A  short story

just leisure things

[ perhaps it was me who's receiving a gift ]

--------------------

The Commissioner was working on his official paperwork as usual. His hands effortlessly moved through the once blank paper. A brief glance on the reference and notes before he jots down another sentence. It's nothing special, just his regular daily job routine.

Time flies soon after and it’s already afternoon, which means lunch time. Which also means seeing you, and he's genuinely eager to do just that. His lips curved into a gentle arc before he meticulously kept his table neat, leaving for wherever you were at that time.

He didn't know, because instead of actually being at the estate you usually never were at the estate especially when it's lunch time. For example, you would be at your own residence, near the cliff by the seashore or even the mountain side, out in the nature where you find inspiration and peace for your writings. 

But to his surprise, you were just comfortably seated in the dining area. A few plates of food were already served to you, chopsticks in your hand and a small smile on your gentle face. What a beautiful sight he thought.

"Afternoon, milady" he enthusiastically greeted you. 

"Now, what do we have here?" He slowly approached the table and sat opposite you, wearing the same smile.

"No, take your own chopsticks" you eyed the chopsticks that were already neatly placed in front of him.

"Come on now…" His eyes observing your every little move. 

"Get your own plate, how come they never served you first?" You whispered to him in a slight annoyed voice. Just the normal banter between the two of you.

The servants at the estate were all but under his command and that's exactly why nobody was serving him a plate for lunch until he asked them to get him a serving. He never told you that he deliberately paused all his food servings just because he'll be asking you to cook for him instead. 

"I want that" he casually demands, pointing his index finger to a sashimi that was exclusively plated for your today's lunch.

You sighed, but eventually picked it up using your chopsticks and carefully brought the sashimi to his already opened mouth. If he didn't ask you to cook for him, he'll eat the food that was yours.

"Did you add lime along with the soy sauce? I didn't think you'd prefer it sour like the locals"

"I think it's alright but I was just testing it out". You casually explained. 

He rarely gets quality time with you on most days. So whenever he gets the chance, he'll do a lot of so-called fun moments that'll put you in an unexpected situation. You might pinch his cheeks sometimes out of annoyance but getting a reaction from your usually expressionless face actually brings him joy. 

Ayato's smiling eyes never left you as he chewed the food. All this while he's been thinking what else can he give you as a gift? He has given you a few necklaces but the only one you often wore was the golden pin with the Kamisato crest emblem. The first and rushed gift he has given to you as a token before you departed from Inazuma. You once mentioned returning it to him but he insisted that it's just nice to see you wear it as a pendant. 

Bracelet, rings and earrings? Well you do wear it on formal occasions but most of the time like right now, you didn't. So he technically put jewellery on hold until now unless you want to buy a new one which is unlikely. 

Easy, books would do… but now that he actually thinks about it, you buy new books way faster than he could even catch up with the recent release. There's no way he could've known which book you have bought and haven't? 

"Sweetheart, what do you want me to buy for a gift?" All in all, he still thought asking you personally would be a better option rather than guessing.

"Gift? For who and what occasion?" You replied after chewing the food.

“For you of course”

“Hmm… nothing came to mind” You nonchalantly took a piece of meat into your bowl of rice.

"Really? But I haven't bought you anything since three months ago"

One of the major problems being with you was he wasn't able to be the man who would lavish you with luxurious gifts just because you could buy it yourself. One time he surprised you with a set of trending bracelet designs, only to know afterwards that you've already bought the same set using your own mora. You don't spend much but if you do see something that caught your eyes, you'll just buy it. 

The fact that you have too much mora at your disposal to the point of not requiring his assistance in that matter. He sometimes secretly wished you didn't. 

"Well… Impress me."

You nonchalantly responded but to him, those words were the flairs that ignited the fire in his competitive self. Fortunately he wasn't competing against anyone else otherwise he wouldn't be able to focus on his paperworks afterwards. 

[ A week later ]

"Ayato, here's my next month's schedule" you casually handed him a few pieces of handwritten papers.

He only intended to briefly read through the dates and information but upon seeing the first date, it was rather surprising for him as he paused for a moment at that particular event. Eventually, he ended up carefully reading all of the pages because of it.

"Sweetheart… Why didn't you inform me at least a month earlier?" He finally pulled the papers away from his face to look up towards you. 

"I am a month early." you jokingly added.

"Next month is tomorrow… I have not made any preparations". He complained. 

"Don't worry… I'll be accompanying them at my place". You softly replied. 

He frowned for a moment while looking at you as if in deep thoughts about the matter.

"If the meeting ends early tomorrow, I'll return as soon as possible. Also, the servants are all yours, instruct them to make arrangements for the guest rooms today."

"Sure, but I'll ask my mom where she'll be interested in staying."

"Of course… and also remember to send my regards to your family tomorrow. I doubt the meeting will end that early."

You smiled, "Aren't you used to these kinds of social things?"

"Yes… but my in-laws are unpredictable." He admitted with a helpless smile.

"How so?" You smiled knowingly. 

He started counting with his fingers with an overly exaggerated worried frown.

"Oh… to be your husband, I've been constantly reminded about your well-being and being threatened ever so casually. The grand total of 'can't and don't s' are uncountable."

"I already told you nobles are demanding." You laughed while lightly tapping his forehead with your index finger.

"Fortunately, you are satisfied with me".

He casually took hold of your hand while laughing at his own remarks. 

"But no matter, I know I've taken good care of you. Am I right?" He added as he flashed a confident grin.

"When are you going to continue with your work? You've been idling about lying on my lap all day". Ever so casually you started striking his confidence away.

Ayato hasn't informed you that he has done all of today's work earlier just so he has all the time to spend with you without worrying about it. But that's just what he wants, you trying to deflate his ego but he'll end up winning. He already knew that would be coming from you. 

"I've done it all". His grin widened as if you'd boosted his confidence instead.

"Fine… I'll give you a 'Well done' then"

He laughed, "but you're still not answering my question"

"Why do you like to ask me obvious questions? Hmm?" You gently run your fingers through his fluffy hair with a small smile.

"Look at you… you seem so unhappy. How am I supposed to know-" 

Even Ayato was not prepared for your sudden act when your lips sealed him quiet. However it took him just seconds to recover from the so-called surprise.

"You talk too much." You swiftly pulled away. 

He was about to say a word but quickly quieted down upon hearing your threatening words that comes after.

"Or I'll complain about your behaviour to my superior tomorrow. Wouldn't that be fun?".

He shook his head profusely and you nodded with a small smile.

Ayato eventually let out a chuckle but didn't say a word afterwards as if your threat holds a great pressure on him even though he also knew you're only playing with him. It's purely a joke and yet he didn't dare to step into that realm of cold winter ice. After all, the so-called superior you've casually mentioned is none other than your mother who'll be visiting Inazuma tomorrow.

"Do you wanna know what's her first impression of you?" You suddenly asked. 

You never mentioned anything about it even after being with him for more than a year but now that they're visiting you, the thought just suddenly came into your mind. 

He smiled seemingly interested before nodding his head.

"She's often busy on most days but that one time she knew I received a letter from Inazuma, she suddenly became eager to know about the letter."

"The first letter I sent you through Yae publishing?"

You nodded and he suddenly sat up straight in complete surprise. 

"It's too late, she already knew what you wrote." You spoke in a joking manner after seeing his surprised reaction.

"She'll know if I try to hide it, so I just let her read the letter. The first thing she asked was your name, age and height. It was quite amusing". You smiled at the thought of it. 

"This feels rather confounding…" he adds with a helpless smile.

"She told me, you're quite ideal but unsuitable for me. Says, you won't understand the language and the culture. She labelled you as an unimpressive suitor." You paused to read his calm gaze. 

"At that time, I just thought I probably need to teach you the basics… it wouldn't be that bad because hell, I didn't wanna end up marrying the Prince's son."

"What? You never told me about that either?!" That new information surprised him even more than he already was.

"Yes, I just felt like talking about it now. But it's true."

He silently looked at you, seemingly thinking before he finally spoke out his thoughts to you. "Oh… it's not a good question but curiosity has given me confidence to just ask you about why did you refused the arrangements back then?"

"It's simple, I just thought I won't be able to visit my family often because I'll be cooped up inside the castle. That's too boring. But they haven't arranged it yet actually, it was just a mere suggestion by then. So, I didn't worry about it too much."

He smiled knowingly, "Or did you already love someone back then?"

"Was it love? I'm not sure…". You avert your gaze as you seem to ponder, "...but whenever I think about that someone, I feel oddly happy." You calmly spoke while meeting his gaze once more with a knowing smile. 

He let out an amused chuckle before returning to his previous position and comfortably rested his head on your lap but instead of facing the tea table he was now facing your body.

"Love depicts a lot of emotions" he briefly turned his head to gaze up at you.

"For example, the pain of longing. Even now, I've been missing you whenever you're away. It felt sickeningly horrible." He casually hinted those previous years when you were back at your homeland. 

"If anger counts, then that day… Was I just missing you when you completely forgot about me?". You met his gaze before answering your own question, " Make sense.". As you mentioned that one time he couldn't remember anything about you. 

"Worried, anxious, fear, guilt are all included." He adds.

You nodded, "Yes, it seems even back then my heart was already taken hostage."

"Wait… wait- I was not guilty in that matter". You let out a chuckle as he responded playfully.

You rolled your eyes but you didn't seem interested in indulging him with the banter.

"Oh come on… You should've said I kept your heart with my fragile hands with utmost care". He added.

"No, I prefer the hostage bit." You argued back.

"...but that's harsh". He grumbled.

"As a writer, I think it sounds thrilling"

He sighed as he eventually let you have the final statement. 

"Now I wonder, how did you think of fulfilling the exact criteria even before I informed you about it? Or was it all your own meticulous planning?" You suddenly thought because impressively he has learned your homeland's language and basic culture even before visiting you. 

"Impressive right?" He whispered before snuggling closer into the fabrics of your clothes. 

You only smiled in response, knowing well he wasn't going to explain much into that. 

[ Two days later ]

The wooden katana stabs to the ground as the owner loses hold of it due to the strong force received from the other user.

"I know you're holding back. But I wonder… would it make any difference if the outcome of the match involves my dear daughter?"

"Yes, most definitely" He unhesitatingly replied with a calm smile.

"Mom, best him over!". You cheered from the sidelines as if he wasn't listening. Meanwhile, your brother helplessly shook his head while holding a cup of tea. 

"You had to give him a boost of confidence." Your brother adds just for you to listen.

"No need, one match is enough. He already did great." She replied to you with an approving nod.

Ayato smiled, he didn't think such words would get to him that much. It felt surreal that his in-laws would actually praise him. 

Your mother suddenly tossed the wooden katana from which Ayato caught it with ease.

"Ma'am, if I may, can I have a match with your dear daughter?" He asked as if he's asking permission to court you.

"Noo…" You had already refused even before he got any confirmation from your mother.

"Well, why not." But surprisingly, your mother agreed to his request without much thought.

You sighed but eventually stood up  from the porch and walked to where your mother previously stood.

Ayato pulled the wooden katana from the ground and handed the other one to you while displaying a joyous smile.

"Mom… why'd you agreed to this? Just look at his face" you casually complained to the person who was now accompanying your brother with a cup of tea in hand.

"Please forgive me, Ma'am but it's my first time to have a match with her. It feels thrilling". He calmly admitted with the same smile.

"It's been many moons ago since I've seen her breath eagerness towards victory".

"Mom, that's exaggerating. I'm not."

Ayato looked at you with a soft smile while the other two who were watching by the porch laughed at your remarks.

"Fine, shall we begin?" You finally turned to face your today's opponent after not practising swordsmanship for a few years.

His left hand that was placed elegantly behind his back has now returned to hold the hilt of the wooden katana. Ayato nodded his head with a calm smile as he stood in a stance seemingly eager to win as you were.

You sighed to ease away your mind after feeling a little overwhelmed just looking at his seemingly calm self.

“Ma’am would it be alright to trouble you in being our today’s judge?” Ayato casually requested but he’s actually giving you a brief chance to prepare yourself.

“Gladly”. She stood closer to where she could see the both of you.

Ayato returned his calm gaze towards you once more, seemingly checking if you’re truly ready for the match.

“Ready when you are.”

You swiftly stood in a stance that was completely different from his posture. A different technique that you seem to adapt whenever you’re in a sword match.

“I’m ready”. You informed and he nodded.

In that instant you seem to hear nothing, not the calm breeze, not the chirping birds or the rustling of leaves but only your own breath. It’s been a while since you’re in such a focus state of mind but it seems you’re truly aiming to do your best.

The second you lift your right foot from the ground to start the strike, Ayato’s sword has already hovered an inch over your neck. Just like that, he was already winning the match.  

Your eyes widened in shock as you froze in place. He met your gaze while displaying that same calm smile. It took you three seconds to recover from that situation before you pushed his shoulder using the hilt of your wooden sword.

He would’ve dodged it before you strike but in that short moment his curiosity got the better of him. He wants to know how much strength you could do? Would he stumble backwards or would he feel the pain for a week? Ayato was that insane to know these kinds of things but he knew there wouldn’t be any other chance to find the answer even if he asked you besides this very moment.

You turned around to face him once more after swiftly escaping from his wooden sword. He rapidly moves forward to do another strike but you manage to block his wooden katana. If it was actually blades, the edges would grit against each other and form sparks of fire.

His strength wielding the wooden katana was so strong that your eyebrows are furrowing to withstand it. Sweat started to form on the sides of your head as you tried to push his wooden katana. His arm didn't budge one bit. 

Eventually, Ayato steadily decreases the force against your wooden sword just enough to balance it with your strength. He knew your stamina is slowly reduced just by seeing you taking in deep breaths however the flare in your eyes hasn’t changed since the beginning of the duel.

“Under such circumstances, I shall declare it as a draw. Is that considerable?” Your mother seems to deliberately suggest a halt to the duel. She seems to know something about you better than your today’s opponent.

“Of course”. He quickly agreed with a nod as he swiftly took a step back. 

You looked at your mother questioningly but eventually agreed with her without voicing out your thoughts.

Ayato casually walked over towards you as he helped you to hold the wooden sword as if it was troubling you. He then handed both the wooden swords to the nearby servants on duty. 

You walked over towards your mother as she displayed an approving smile, “Agility is your weakness”.

“...but mom, he’s so strong”. You whispered a complaint to her as if Ayato wasn't already standing right next to you with that same calm smile.

“Strength is consistency” Same as you, she too spoke without secrecy from the said person himself. 

“Right…” You eventually agreed after you remember that Ayato does sword practises everyday without skipping.  

“Remember don’t strain yourself”. She whispered a reminder as you nodded agreeingly.

"Ah… I shall resume indulging those pleasant green tea" She swiftly walked back to the porch, leaving the both of you standing there just so casually.

You sighed as you exchanged gaze with the person beside you. His smile softened as he casually placed an arm over your shoulder.

"Sweetheart, you should've joined me for sword practice sometimes. I haven't even got the chance to see all the techniques you use."

"I'm just a writer. I use my fingers to write. Besides, you have a lot of people to choose from for practice and you can even hire someone from my homeland if you want to know other sword techniques. Actually I can just ask my brother to show you the basics. He probably wants you to teach him your ways as well if you seek for the advanced level" You replied with a lengthy explanation of ideas and solutions to him.

He helplessly smiled, "Such brilliant idea, my sweetheart. However, none of it would let me spend more time with you".

A slight frown appeared on your face, before it slowly reduced into a soft smile as you finally realised what he actually meant. "Oh?"

He nodded, "Yes."

Despite that, you shook your head, "No."

He gently pulled your shoulder until your head was closer to lock his gaze with you, slightly trying to persuade you to agree.

Unfazed, you still shook your head to disagree with his suggestion. He sighed with a slight chuckle as he slightly nodded.

"Alright. I guess I'll have to practise all alone then". It seems he's not giving up about that matter yet.

"Fine, but not within these few months." You casually informed him.

"Why? Is something-" His eyes widened seemingly assuming a reason behind your words.

"Are you returning to your homeland… for a few months?" He whispered. 

You shook your head with a helpless smile, "but I would love that idea, would you let m-"

"Oh… sweetheart" Your words seem to have saddened his spirit as he spoke humorlessly cutting through your words. "I can't even stop you even if I wanted you to stay but I-"

"Stop being dramatic, shhh". You quickly tried to stop him from rambling even more. Somehow you can already feel the embarrassment creeping up your cheeks when you hear your brother start stifling a laughter from over the porch.

Ayato on the other hand was unbothered and he's slightly enjoying seeing such genuine reaction coming from you. He finds it quite cute. 

You quickly pulled him to walk a bit further away from the porch area, "I'm not leaving"

"So what did you mean by a few months?" He was quick to get the answer he actually wants.

[ The next day ]

"I beg your pardon" He subconsciously blurted out with sudden formality. 

"I don't feel like going out today" You repeated as you pulled up the smooth fabric of the blanket to cover your face away from his view. 

"Sweetheart, what is the matter? Is it because you wished to return to your homeland alongside your family yesterday? If so, you should've told me." He gently brushed his fingers along your silky smooth hair. 

"It's just cold" You mumbled.

He let out a soft chuckle, "I'm afraid, you love the coldness better than me, sweetheart"

"Fine, I'm just sleepy". You huffed underneath the blanket.

"Come on now, what's the matter?" He insists on questioning you while gently pulling the blanket off your face. 

"It's still early". You grumbled.

He gently placed his palm on your forehead to check your temperature but then nodded once he confirmed your body temperature was normal.

"Sweetheart, it's past afternoon. Have you not eaten anything yet?". He asked again, feeling a little concerned. 

You stayed quiet afterwards which then confirmed his assumption. He sighed, "Come, accompany me to eat lunch. I'm famished"

Ayato has just returned from a meeting and he initially thought you were busy writing somewhere outside the estate which caused him to worry about your whereabouts because he couldn’t find you. Turns out you were still in bed ever since he left for work which was unexpected.

You didn’t move as you stayed still in bed, refusing to comply with him. He didn’t want to force you either, so he casually rested his head on top of your stomach.

“I’m not your pillow, go somewhere else”. You swiftly rolled over to the side, heartlessly causing half of his body to fall on the futon. Luckily the futon was thick enough to save him from the hard floor.

“My heart hurts”. He whined, feeling a little sad for your harsh rejection.

You sighed, “I’m sorry”. Truth was you didn’t want to treat him that badly either. You knew he was just trying to persuade you to come with him.

He sat up once more as he looked down at you with a smile on his lips seemingly unbothered. He reached out a hand to gently caress your cheeks, “Tell me, what are you upset about?”

You suddenly sat up, and moved over towards him as you comfortably rested your head on his lap. Usually it was always him who would do this to you.

“Goodness me. Now I’m not so sure if this is entirely about me that you’re unsatisfied about”. He let out a chuckle but was equally curious about your thoughts.

“I’m so angry at you right now”. You casually informed him.

“You are?”. He questions with a smile as his eyes meet yours with much adoration. Ayato was sure you weren't. 

“Ayato…”. You suddenly called his name with your eyes now closed.

“Hmm?” He hummed looking down at you, the smile on his lips slowly disappearing. He felt that you were much more serious now that you’ve called him like that.

"My mother says I shouldn't eat a lot of things and says I should reorganise my whole eating diet. She even gave me her own notes".

"Why is that?"

You grabbed one of his hands and slightly squeezed it in both of your hands. "I feel so restricted but I know I need to comply". You continue to speak out your frustrations to him.

"Surely, it wouldn't be any different? Your usual diet at the estate is considerably well prepared." Now he feels a little curious about the matter but he wants to wait for you to explain it more to him.

"I'm a little worried but…" You suddenly opened your eyes to meet his calm gaze, "No matter, I still have your full support".

"Oh dear… it seems you're leaving out an important fact from me." He calmly states out a point but he eventually smiles despite feeling an eagerness to know behind such regulations placed over you.

Ayato gently pulled your body towards him as he then carried you before placing your head on the pillow. He then positioned half of his body hovering over you as his left arm supported his weight, with a certain closeness that'll make you question his intentions. He then placed his right hand on the pillow, just next to your head. 

"Still my wife must eat lunch with me. That's not negotiable". He softly spoke with his left cheeks slightly squished against the left side of your cheek. He was intentionally wanting to grasp all your attention. 

You cupped his face with both hands to slowly pull him away, "I'll squish your cheeks.". You tried to sound a little stern but you eventually laughed as you see him smiling gleefully at your touch, "I can't believe I'm arguing with you like this" 

He suddenly grabbed both your hands with his own as he gave your fingertips a quick kiss. "Then would you want me to-"

"No."

"What?! I haven't-"

"No."

"Not negotiable?"

You eventually nodded with an amused chuckle. 

"But I'm willingly risking my official attire knowing that it'll get wrinkles… I still have another meeting in...". He started counting with his fingers before continuing his sentence, "...the next two hours." he argued as if getting wrinkles on his outfit was life threatening.

"Fine. I'll accept your first offer".

"How disappointing... but lunch is indeed a priority. Come now"

He smiled, seemingly satisfied before casually pulling you to stand up along with him.

"Now, should I help you defy our superior's meal suggestions or you could tell me the specifics about such an important matter?" 

-------------------

A/N: idea flows like water whenever I write about Ayato.

[dasher85]

your latest alhaitham fic haha, what if they ended up having more than one child? bet he is going to be a great father

tbh every time I think towards this plot for them...

I just can't help but think how cute it was. I think they would, just because he would reason something like:

Hai: Which reminds me, I'm an only child and life has been that boring without any siblings. y/n: ...and you grew up just fine without a sibling Hai: Siblings can help each other, learn, understand- y/n: I'm going to have a headache whenever I know what you're implying Hai: So, do you agree?

He would reason things like that with a straight face for sure and then smiles like crazy only if she agrees.

[dasher85]

fireflies

featuring our Elucidation duo

Alhaitham x reader | y/n | you

short story

Related to this ask as well

Part 1 | Part 2

[ A future with you is endless ]

“What are you trying to theorize?”. It seems after living with this man who was being labeled a lunatic by certain people has had you prepared. Despite that, you’re still glad he was a little insane otherwise how would he keep up with your antics by now. “The probability of you and me…”. He trailed off to meet your gaze.

-------------------------

[ The Rainforest ]

The birds chirping at a distance, the rainforest cool breeze and slight sunshine through the tree leaves effortlessly decorated the rainforest. The strands of your hair would occasionally brush against your cheeks as the gentle breeze passed by you. It was indeed a nice feeling to be in the rainforest today. The cool breeze, his gentle presence and an easy feeling in your heart.

"I must say these days, you're getting better and better with fancy words". You replied to his previous statement.

A small smile appeared on his lips but didn’t add any remarks afterwards, silently holding your hand in his. 

"Isn’t this nearby our first research site?". You instantly recognized the path even before actually seeing the ruins uphill but still asked him for confirmation since you haven’t been here in a while. The side of his lips raised in response to your reaction but he only gently squeezed your hand without turning around to look at you.

"Come on, we're going inside using the second entrance".

"I didn't know there's a second entrance."

"It's somewhere deeper in the path ahead". He informed you as he gestured a hand towards the upcoming path ahead.

You didn't question much and followed him with ease.

"Hai…"

"Hmm?" He hummed softly but didn't exactly turn as he was focusing on the path ahead.

"Th… there's-". You suddenly grabbed on to the back of his shirt which instantly pulled his attention towards you. The fabrics of his shirt squeezed within your grasp.

“What’s wrong?!”. He questions.

“My hair… is there something on my head?”. You frantically explained in distress.

He turned around to see what was wrong and for a second panic was visible in his eyes but soon he heaved a sigh once he knew what you were so scared about.

"Calm down, it's just an insect". He fully turned his body to face you as he slowly took hold of your hand that was strongly gripping on the only piece of sleeveless black shirt he wore.

He reassuringly managed to place that hand on his shoulder instead while he kept on holding your other hand in his right hand.

"Is it a spider?!". You began to freak out by the thought of it.

"No. It's just a huge butterfly". He lied the calmest way possible, it was indeed a spider. A huge one that is and he's not so sure how he should remove it without getting bitten himself.

"You're lying. Just get-"

He swiftly gestures his left hand over your head as an emerald green light emanates through his hand. It was so brief that you wouldn't have noticed it if you blinked your eyes at that exact second.

"It's gone". He calmly replied but his teal eyes were still focusing on where the spider had landed or where he had swished it away with his dendro abilities.

"Oh…". You nodded as you sighed feeling relieved.

“You’re alright now”. He walks over closer towards you and casually fixes your hair, straightening all the disheveled hair strands. His slender fingers gently combed through your hair just like he usually does with a calm facial expression. "There, shall we get going?" 

You nodded, seemingly feeling a lot calmer. He nods and turns to continue walking as he leads ahead with you following close behind him. 

[ The ruins ]

"Wait, are we just going in there without any torch?". You questioned as you noticed he didn't stop and straight away headed into the darkness of the entrance once the both of you arrived there.

"Scared?". He calmly responded with another question. If it was well lit inside, you could've seen the smirk on his lips. 

"A little". You directly admitted.

"Just close your eyes". He casually spoke as if it'll help you to feel better.

You scoffed with a smile, "How is that supposed to-"

He let go of your hand and swiftly lifted you up with both of his arms. 

"-huh?!". You exclaimed, not expecting him to do just that without any warning. He started walking down the path while effortlessly carrying you in his arms. Eventually you sighed and gave in to his random antics. After all, it's not like this is the first time he has ever carried you like this. 

He lightly kissed the right side of your cheeks, "Don't worry, I've been here for so many times".

“What is this? Is this included in your plan?”

“Well if you insist on walking I’ll let you down but you’re still agreeing to this.” You helplessly shook your head, speechless with his words but it seems he’s not entirely wrong about that.

You couldn’t see anything in there because it seems there were no cracks in between the walls of the ruins. It was cold and eerie as the only thing you could hear was the slow howling winds and his footsteps. The sole of his boots stepped on dry, hard and dusty pavements.

You kept your eyes open despite the fact that you couldn’t see anything but you were just feeling calm. Perhaps the soft glow of his dendro vision was quite fascinating or perhaps the rhythm of his footsteps were just at the right phase? You suddenly let out a slight chuckle as you thought of the answer.

He only smiled to himself despite not knowing what exactly you were thinking even at this moment of just him carrying you. Admittingly he’s enjoying it, he’s influenced by your emotions itself.

“Tell me, have I gained weight compared to back then when you carried me all the way back to Sumeru city?”. You casually asked him as if it’s an easy ‘Yes, No’ question and wouldn’t get him into trouble if he answered wrongly.

“I’m not a weighing scale”. He responded casually trying to escape your dangerous question. He once answered it with a specific ‘You weigh 1 kilogram heavier than before’ but then after that he noticed you started eating less which was not something he wanted to happen again.

“Fine”. You smiled as you weren’t actually serious about the matter. In fact you're trying to drop him into a teasing hell which he seems to avoid so easily. 

“Besides, if I can’t carry you, then that means I need more training”. He calmly adds.

You laughed at his statement, “I’m already scared of your training routine. What more do you want to do?”

“Not telling you”. He responded, somehow unusually secretive about that matter.

“After all, I still can carry you just fine”. He responded with an air of confidence in his calm voice.

Shortly after that, the both of you arrived inside the ruins section where streaks rays of sunlight passed through a crack in the higher walls. Particles of dust floating, suspended, in the air. Normal yet beautiful. Root veins spread across the walls creating a natural touch of fascination for the discoverer. A stream of underground water streamed through a small passage from the cracks between the once hard pavements. The whole section felt entirely different, like a world of its own. 

Alhaitham gently placed you down on both of your feet. He then walks towards a room nearby and brings back two sets of wooden stools. It seems he's been here often or was he just well prepared?

"It's beautiful here". You smiled happily.

"Not yet, we should wait a while longer". He gestured you to come over towards him where he had placed the stool just near the opposite walls untouched by the sunlight rays.

"Why's that?". You questioned as you joined to sit next to him.

He took out a book out from his pouch, "I'll tell you when it's time"

Seeing how he's already come prepared with a book, you're feeling slightly disappointed that he didn't tell you about the part where it'll take some time otherwise, you would bring a book for yourself too. As much as you wanted to ask why he’s taking you here or what’s unique about this place, you gulped down all the questions and just quietly sat there next to him.

Alhaitham only read three pages of the book and then he suddenly has already kept it back inside his pouch. He's a fast reader so it took him only a few minute. He seems to ponder a few moments to himself before he turns his head to face you. You met his calm gaze as you raised your eyebrows looking questioningly at him, not entirely sure what was on his mind. 

He slightly shook his head before taking out a hand to you, expecting you to take hold of it in which you casually did so without question. A soft sigh escaped his lips as if he was satisfied with such simple gestures. Just him holding your hand.

You quietly looked at him before you started scoffing then it slowly turned into a laughter.

Alhaitham didn't complain nor did he say anything. He slightly squeezed your hand as he slowly brought it close to his face until eventually you could feel his warm breath, his lips tenderly kissing the back of your hand.

The amused feeling slowly turned into a mixture of surprise and adoration. You didn't expect him to be so expressive all too suddenly without any known reason.

"Hmm… that was underwhelming". He finally spoke after doing so. For some reason, that statement did crush a little bit of your feelings. 

"Well, what do you expect?". You calmly responded as you tried to pull your hand away from his firm hold.

"No, I'm not done". He stated as you sighed and focused your gaze on him, patiently waiting for him to explain more.

A small smile appeared on his lips as he lovingly kept his gaze on you. He slowly pulled you closer towards him as he subconsciously wrapped his arm around your waist before you knew it he unexpectedly captured your lips into a tender kiss. 

This man has kissed you a millionth time with or without a reason. He doesn't do much within the vicinity of other people but when it's only between you and him that's totally a different story. What did you even expect, he's your dedicated man after all. So at heart, you're accustomed to these gestures of affection.

Shortly after, he slowly pulled away as his teal eyes searched yours, seemingly in an attempt to seek something from you. Despite that, you still didn't know what he was thinking. He seems worried and yet calm, he seems happy and yet he wasn't smiling.

After a moment, he opened his mouth to say something but he only ended up smiling which was both laughable and yet so oddly cute. After all, he rarely ever smiles in such a way that you'll think his eyes are sparkling with genuine adoration. It was just so lovable, so filled with warmth. The total opposite to his unmovable expressionless face. 

He cleared his throat, "I'm… well- tsk". He sighed, seemingly frustrated that he wasn't able to say something.

"I'm sorry…". He suddenly apologized. "I already practiced it so many times but I keep forgetting it". He slowly admitted about something you still have no idea about. 

"About what?". You slowly questioned him, feeling amused that this man claims to forget about something when he actually could remember every small detail about you.

Alhaitham swiftly took out the book he had previously read and pulled out three pieces of paper that turned out to be separated papers that are not a part of the book itself. He kept the book and gave you the three pieces of paper.

The paper was filled with words from the front and back, text written neatly by hand. You instantly recognized that it was all Alhaitham's handwritings. You looked at him then at the paper again.

"Those are a short summary of my journal…" He deliberately trailed off, "...about you."

"Journals? What am I? Your research?!". You jokingly responded.

He nodded without denying anything, "I have five, adding another this year". It seems he wasn't playing with you, "That one is a summary for my first journal".

"Did you plan to memorize all of these?"

He nodded, "I already did but I feel my heartbeat spikes up too much if… well"

You helplessly shook your head in disbelief that he's actually feeling nervous just to tell you something that he himself has already planned on telling you. Why was he so nervous by saying it but was just fine if you're the one to read it yourself?

“What kind of logic is that?”. You deliberately imitated his own words whenever you said something considered amusing to him. Now, it was you who thought he was being out of character to be not only expressive but nervous to say something out. 

“Please read it". He insists with a certain plea as he ignored your amused statements.

You nodded, "Alright, of course". 

You slowly started reading it while casually ignoring his anticipating glare which was quite amusing. He seemed nervous but was willing to endure the outcome from revealing his so-called personal research.

[ Left Unsaid ]

He wrote about the first time he saw you. It was the first day of class. You were swiftly passing by him, almost knocking the books he was holding. At that time you were busy studying the pamphlet of Akademiya's map on your hand as you tried to find where the lecture hall was located. He thought it was only normal that people are often ignorant when they are dealing with their own problems.

Those were the earliest opinions he had about you but oddly enough he didn't seem to harbor any ill feelings.

He only ever referred to you as 'That person' and never seemed to label you as a friend, an acquaintance or a research partner. Not once.

It seems it was only you who ever assumed him to be someone you deemed more than he ever did. You came to realize that he didn't even see you as his friend back then. Not even a mere friend. It was baffling.

‘Was I being delusional?’. You thought to yourself but you kept on reading through it. The text continues on towards those days after graduation. 

'That person, who is she to me?'

'Why do I keep thinking about that person?'

'I want to see that person.'

'Why is it so noisy when she’s not around?.' 

Alhaitham was an intelligent man, it's an obvious fact but one thing you noticed based on the words he wrote, he's damn well unable to figure out his own emotions about you. He kept questioning himself, falling down into the spiral of his own thoughts and yet unable to escape free from to the surface as if he was helplessly drowning.

However whenever he caught a glimpse of you for even a mere second, it seems his thoughts quieted down for the whole day. Even you couldn't understand why he felt that way towards you. It was unbelievable. Illogical. He didn't have a conclusion to his problems but was seemingly content with how things were. Seeing you was enough. 

You proceeded to read to the third page, it focuses on those days when he knew you're accepting the arranged marriage. He seems to describe it in a rather solemn manner.

'That person is getting married soon. It's only natural'.  

He stayed at home thinking about it, the more he thought about it the more he felt miserable.

'If that person has her own family, wouldn't I see her less?'

Despite that, he never once mentioned or tried to figure out your thoughts about him. It was only him and his own thoughts. It seems he has already been your personal Scribe even before he knows much about you or about his own feelings. 

'How do I prevent this catastrophic downfall?'

That was his last sentence, a complete cliffhanger if it was a novel book.

"That's it? You can't just reveal something and just leave it short?". You questioned right after reading his lengthy summarization. 

He let out a chuckle, "You already know the ending".

"It says here, 'Personal observation: That person'. Not once a name was mentioned. After all, I can't just assume things". At this point you're just making fun of him.

"Hmm…". He nodded and smiled but didn't deny your statements either, "So, no questions?" 

"I swear I didn't put a charm on you, alright". You jokingly responded afterwards.

"...and I thought we were friends, but it turned out our friendship was one sided". You added with a smile.

"Like you said, we shouldn't assume things". He responded. "I can't assume what your thoughts are about me".

"There's no way your friends say something like, 'Can I be your friend?' question. That's just awkward and weird"

"They are different, you are different".

"So, you purposely didn't consider me as your friend?"

He nodded, "Since the beginning, I never wanted to be your friend. It's a strange ordeal, to me, you're that person who I would rather not interact at all or give my every attention. There are no in betweens."

"Wait… so even before graduation, if I were to ask you to teach me about something, would you do it?"

"I would"

"If I had asked you to buy me lunch?"

"It depends if you have a good reason"

You laughed, "Such as?"

"Maybe you're sick, maybe you're busy or you forgot to bring mora that day". He reasons.

You seem to ponder for a few moments, "That's just you being a good friend"

"You see, I have a habit of ignoring even my friends if I don't feel like interacting with them. As for you, even if I didn't say anything, I often give thoughts to your words. Had you requested of me, I will do it.". He explained.

You let out a chuckle, "Then, when did you start thinking about my thoughts about you? Were you not curious at all?"

He smiled, "Hmm… you couldn't possibly ask the author to rush, do you?" 

"You already wrote it, why won't you just let me read the original copy?". You reason with him.

He shook his head, "Well, I'm supposed to feel really embarrassed back then even more so than I am right now."

"What do you mean?"

He didn't respond to your question, "It's about time."

[ Fireflies ]

Right after he said that, ever so slowly a few fireflies started to come out from behind the vines of tree roots. They emanate a neon green glow which beautifully amplifies the surroundings into becoming a magical place than it already was.

"Fireflies…". You whispered with a hint of excitement evident in your voice.

"You'll see more of them once the sunlight doesn't reach through here". He softly spoke as he glanced at your side profile with a soft smile. Alhaitham knew you were entirely captivated by fireflies and here he was completely mesmerized by you.

He looked over at his coat that was still on your shoulder and unpinned the dendro vision from the coat. A faded green glow emanates softly from the vision. Such a peculiar item but you often thought it's basically just a gemstone that glows.

He lets go of your hand and lets you take hold of the vision before he then places your hand on your lap with his hand underneath your hand. You wondered what he wanted to do by doing that but you only waited for him to explain it himself. 

"The fireflies will gather near the vision once they reach closer". His eyes seemed to display a genuine excitement as he calmly explained. You didn't know if he was excited to see the fireflies too or was he just overjoyed by something? His teal eyes glistened in admiration despite his lips barely hinting any evidence of joy in his soul.  

Shortly after he spoke, the fireflies slowly started flying towards you, seemingly hovering within your reach, within the glow of Alhaitham’s Dendro vision. They were gentle and mesmerizing, occasionally blinking a neon green glow despite still keeping a slight distance from you. 

You smiled as you turned your head to meet his gaze who was already on you all along. There weren't many chances to be in such close proximity with these fireflies. So, you wanted to tell him how glad you were at the moment, how wonderful it was to see these natural beauty and express how you genuinely felt but it seems he knows that already.

“Fireflies by nature are attracted to lights, especially those that are similar in nature”. He slowly spoke from which you only quietly nodded and halting to speak out your mind.

“It’s fascinating isn’t it?”

You gleefully nodded with a smile and he suddenly let out a chuckle which was rare of him. You sighed, surely if he’s laughing it’s not by all means coming from anything good. You assumed he’s either mocking something or just flatly being sarcastic for reasons you’ll never truly understand.

“Wait… don’t be mad yet”. He tried to explain as he quickly cleared his throat.

“No, I’m not”. You calmly stated but who was he to not know the slight changes of expression on your face.

“Well… I was gonna say you still choose me despite that”

“...and so?”. You raised your eyebrows.

He seems to ponder a while to arrange his words, “One reason why fireflies are attracted to lights is because they are finding mates.”

“Hmph…”

“Alright, darling… I won’t say more into that”. He quietly tried to reassure you but he was deliberately covering his lips with his other hand, obviously even he couldn’t help but grin at your reaction.

“So what if the fireflies are finding their mates?”. You suddenly throw the question towards him.

“Hmm… in that case let me indulge you with the knowledge-”

“Nope, no… I take that back”

He frowned at your sudden refusal to listen to his thoughts. He was confused as he tried to figure out your point of view in that matter.

“Why?”

“Nevermind, just tell me”. You gave up, you didn’t want to share your thoughts either. Perhaps it was different than how he sees it? Or perhaps he's on the same page with you?

“It’s because you’re holding my Dendro vision which also symbolizes all of my desires”. He then calmly responded.

“But you asked me to hold it in the first place”. You spoke with a slight frown feeling more confused with his way of understanding.

“So, that also means if I give you something you’ll take it?”. He stated with such a look that was eager to know your answer.

“What are you trying to theorize?”. It seems after living with this man who was being labeled a lunatic by certain people has had you prepared. Despite that, you’re still glad he was a little insane otherwise how would he keep up with your antics by now.

“The probability of you and me…”. He trailed off to meet your gaze.

You sighed, “I’m not allowing you to talk with my aunts or my mom anymore.” It seems you guessed him right about this matter.

He let out a chuckle, “Oh no, you’ve misunderstood me. In fact, they’ve been saying the same thing even before our wedding. So strictly speaking, this is on me”. 

You swatted his left arm, slightly scaring the fireflies that were hovering within close proximity of your hand.

He only smiled as he moved slightly to the side, trying to avoid your hand. “I mean what do you expect? Unless we have complications…”. His voice was calm.

“Tsk!”

“No matter, I was merely suggesting… but perhaps you would want me to convince you?”. He now spoke with a hint of amusement on his lips. Somehow these topics have made you feel flustered concealed with slight annoyance. It was as he expected but since he wasn’t being direct, receiving a slight glare from you was expected.

Alhaitham waited for you to speak but you didn’t deny his words either, “Besides, just one light is enough to light our way but I won’t complain if you don’t want to share.” He then adds, obviously hinting his request.

You eventually sighed, “I’ll think about it”

He nodded seemingly not against any of it, “Of course. Let’s collect more data, I wouldn't want to be empty handed either”. He suddenly displayed a warm smile as if he’s already seeing his future with you. That same smile that could melt your heart endlessly without him saying a word of affection. You haven’t agreed yet but was he trying to persuade you with this method? For once, he was being unfair but one thing you were certain, he indeed planned all of this just to ask this request to you.

“For now, I’ll take you to every place we haven’t seen and do all those things we haven’t done. Is that a good trade?” 

---------------

A/N: this took me awhile but its quite fun to write this. I hope it's logical XD

[dasher85]

c.ai

if anyone is interested...

I somehow got curious how c.ai works so I test out into creating / replicating Inexpressible Ayato. I’m not so sure about the accuracy of the responses but feel free to burn him with endless questions.

Ayato - Inexpressible 

[dasher85]

Author san, just letting you know that I love your writings! I'm too shy to write a comment but I'm happy whenever you post something new 💖

Thank you, Anon ^^

I appreciate all the love, time and support. Sending back much love to you too!

I just haven't have inspo these days, I need to add more taste into the plot XD Sometimes I feel like something is too lengthy or too short. And sometimes I think it's not logical, repetitive or too dramatic. I'm just not so sure which one is better.

But of course, I will finish my ongoing list eventually.

[dasher85]

I'm curious, but have you played Honkai Starrail? And if you have who are your favorite characters?

Yes, I did.

I didn't quite like the combat at first but I'm liking it so far. I initially got interested to play because of DanHeng but things change. And now my favorite character, the number one would be Blade. I did pull for JingYuan too, so he's still on the list.

Blade, JingYuan, Gepard, Luocha.

How about you, Anon, who captured your heart? XD

[dasher85]

Is there a character from Fontaine that you like?

Yes. Just two at the moment. Hopefully Hyvs keep it that way because I may or may not be able to provide that much primo XD

But of course it's gonna be the tall male characters. Its non other than Wriothesley and Neuvillette. And if I have to choose between those two its gonna be Wriothesley just because he has short hair. But I can't wait to know how wicked or virtuous they are as a character.

Just imagine if we need to solve a case... (I had enough with tears of themis XD).

How about you, Anon? Who do you fancy?

[dasher85]

Hi~

Hello ^^

[dasher85]

today, I tried playing around with character.ai

created by solemnii. A mere two minutes into the conversation, ai asked me that question and I’ve never mentioned about any job. Ngl but it feels like talking with Inexpressible Ayato XD