hey! it’s not a req but a question- will you be making a p4 to your diluc angst fic (harsh words)??? i’m honestly so hooked on it and the cliffhanger is killing me 😭! and i love your writing!!! i was gripped throughout all the chapters
Yep! It’s written but I just have to go through and check for spelling errors so it’ll be up soon
Perhaps your avoidance was becoming something of a nuisance to Diluc. Perhaps it was becoming the object of his obsession.
Either way, he was at the complete mercy of the little information he could actually find as to where the hell you had decided to disappear off to for the last ten days. He was certain - more than certain, given how many times he had asked his network - that you had left the city. Not that he could even blame you, really. He knew it was his fault that you had decided to leave. Somewhere deep in his soul, he knew.
But he couldn’t let you go. It was making him ill just thinking about it.
His main lead as to where you were lies in the hands of his very own brother. He knew that the last day he had seen you - a begotten day that refuses to cease haunting him - you had visited Kaeya. He knew that you had gotten help escaping notice from the search for you through him. How funny it was, that even though you were missing, the assigned knights under Kaeya just so happened to not be able to find you. How awfully convenient it was that they had decided to only search within city walls. It was all too telling.
Diluc wasn’t buying it. Kaeya had to know where you went off to.
“Master Diluc.” A voice called to him quietly, rounding the corner of the winery interior with Adelinde trailing behind. He peered up from his desk, quickly collecting the papers in front of him into a single pile.
“Jean.” He greeted back. “Unusual for you to visit.”
“Yes, I suppose so.” She stepped closer to the desk, her actions seemingly careful as she peered at the pages. “I was… well, it was suggested that I check on you. There seems to be some concern over your current state.”
“So Kaeya sent you.” Diluc leaned back in his chair with a low huff. “I’m sorry to have wasted your time, Jean. I’m perfectly alright.”
She was silent. He could tell by the way that she refused to look away that she didn’t believe a word of that. “If I ask you something, will you be honest with me?”
“Perhaps.”
She took a deep breath. “Do you know why Y/N left Mondstadt?”
Diluc’s eyes set into focus, then became hazy with the memories fazing by him. His expression darkened and it took him less than a moment to recognise the monster within himself.
Jean watched the shifts carefully, meticulously.
“My apologies for wasting your time, Jean.” He looked down; Her eyes followed once more to the paper, the perfectly cursive handwriting - his handwriting - was written in blunt, short details, traces of information, and extraneous details.
Every single line about you.
Jean spotted your name, stepping closer to the table once again.
“As the acting grandmaster, I’m sorry to have to do this to you Master Diluc.”
The sheath of metal snapped his attention to her, and his eyes were met with the close point of a blade. “Diluc Ragvindr, you are under arrest for connections to the missing persons case of Y/N.”
Diluc heard the sound of voices outside: More knights. Of course she hadn’t come alone, not when Kaeya hadn’t bothered to show up himself. His mind wandered momentarily; He could take them all out with ease should he select the murderous path. For you, he would.
But for you, for finding you, it would be far more advantageous to comply, and fast.
“If I tell you everything, here, will you let me go?”
Her eyes narrowed, her expression closing in as she considered the words. Then, she sheathed her sword in a swift motion and pulled on the opposing chair, taking a seat. “To be clear, this won't clear you of arrest if there’s still reason to. Start talking.”
And he did. For once, he actually told the full truth.
Diluc told her everything, the entirety of the fight; The escalation when you and him had both doubled down on your opinions of your friendships, the yelling that occurred and his refusal to let you leave. Breakfast, the drinks, and Kaeya. He told her of his suspicions that Kaeya knew where you were, almost certainly. He told her that the morning you fought, and he had hurt you, that he knew he had seriously fucked up.
Jean watched him carefully, her silence a looming presence between them. She reached down and lifted a piece of paper, the one of many on his desk that had details scribbled all over the page in a kind of organisational madness.
“Diluc.” He voice was quiet. “Do you realise the gravity of what you have done?”
He pressed his lips into a thin line. “I don’t know.” If he was able to give anything to stop himself from shaking right now, his honestly was where he could start. He knew he was petulant when it came to his emotions, maybe because he his self-understanding is that of a child.
Emotional repression has its downsides.
“May Barbatos bring Y/N to a safe place.” Jean stood. “Wherever that may be.”
“What are you implying?” He felt like he was going to cry.
“I mean to say, Diluc, that they’ve probably already left Mondstadt.” Jean stepped away from the chair with a sigh. “I will inquire with Captain Kaeya as to any leads regarding Y/N’s whereabouts. Whether that information will be relayed back to you is still to be decided.”
“Jean.” Diluc stood, hand resting atop the papers. Their eyes were caught. “Please.”
She held his gaze for a moment, searching for exactly what she found. “I cannot guarantee anything to you, Master Diluc.” She held the paper she had taken out to him, and he took it back with a somber expression.
Regret, devastation, and an unwavering dedication that told her that Diluc was going to become a problem.
——
Jean stepped into the headquarters with an unusually blank expression on her face.
In the foyer, two voices pierced her attention. Kaeya held a piece of paper covered in crayon markings, excitedly talking to an excited Klee who was smiling and laughing at the words which seemed to miss the acting grandmaster’s ears.
“Kaeya.” Jean called out as she approached the two with a steady pace.
“Good morning master Jean!” Klee smiled at her, the brightness bringing a small smile to her own face.
“Good morning Klee.” Jean knelt down and placed a hand on Klee’s head. “I need to speak to Kaeya. Would you mind hanging out with miss Lisa for a little while?”
“Is Kaeya in trouble?” The young girl asks with a frown. It was almost adorable.
Jean chuckles, drawing her hand away. “He might be, but probably not. I have to ask him some questions to find out.” The girl’s expression twisted, and the door of the library opened - Lisa might have been listening in, Jean had determined.
“But mister Kaeya would never do anything bad.”
“I don’t think he did either, but I have some very important questions to ask him. I promise that you’ll be able to see him in a little while.”
“It’s alright, Klee. I’ll be back out in a moment.” Kaeya ruffles her hair with his spare hand.
Klee tugs on his sleeve. “You promise?”
“I promise. Now, go find miss Lisa and I’ll be there in a few minutes.”
“Mm, okay!” Klee smiled and turned around. “Bye master Jean, bye Kaeya!” She waved as she wandered toward the open door of the library. Jean stood back up and peered toward the door, giving Lisa a small nod of acknowledgement before the door closed behind the librarian.
The acting grandmaster turned her attention to the cavalry captain. She caught his eye, and he nodded.
“You went to Dawn Winery, didn’t you?”
She turned swiftly on her heel. “My office.”
The two walked into the office and she closed the door, stepping around the desk as he stood in front of it. Here, they wouldn’t be overheard.
“Diluc tells me of his suspicions that you may be hiding Y/N’s location.”
“He would think that, wouldn’t he?” It wasn’t much of a question.
“Kaeya.” She crossed her arms. “Is it true?”
He hesitated, eyes dancing around the desk as he placed the drawing Klee had done down on it. “Let me explain why I did it before you do anything.” His voice was drawn, soft.
Jean was silent, leaving the floor open for him to talk. He sat down with a sigh.
“Diluc’s behaviour toward Y/N seemed to escalate to a point where it was no longer the best thing for them to be around him. They asked me what they needed to do and I told them to take some time away from Mondstadt?”
“You were trying to protect them?”
“Yes.”
Jeans sighs, sitting in her chair. “I see. This does align with everything I was told.”
“What were you told?”
She eyed him carefully. “He informed me of all the events leading up to Y/N’s disappearance. He suspected that you may have been involved in arranging such a thing. It seems to me that that is the truth.”
“It is.” Kaeya admitted.
“And you lied to the knights about this.”
He folded his hands into his lap. “Perhaps I shouldn’t have, but I couldn’t assure their safety if I had done that from the start. The knights don’t have the full story. If someone had told Diluc, then… who knows.”
“That wasn’t your decision to make, Kaeya.”
He pressed his lips into a thin line. “Master Jean, with all due respect, you don’t know Diluc and Y/N as well as I do. He is going to snap when he finds out where they are.”
“When?” She questioned.
“It’s only a matter of time, isn’t it?”
Jean shuffled the folders on her desk and found the one for your disappearance. “Are you going to tell me where they are?”
“I don’t have a choice, do I?”
“You have the choice to lie.” She crossed her arms on the table. “But I wouldn’t recommend it."
——
“Master Diluc.” Adelinde placed a letter onto the table, right by the food that he wasn’t too keen on eating right now. “An anonymous note. Some information about Y/N.”
That got him to look up. “A note?” His eyebrows creased. “Bring it here.”
She hesitated, but followed his command. He took the piece of paper and read over it quickly. His eyes seemed to shine ever so much as his eyes scanned the words, almost frantically, over and over and over.
“Maybe the guild isn’t as useless as the knights after all.” He placed the letter aside and picked up his utensils. “Thank you, Adelinde. I’ll be leaving the winery in an hour. Make sure everything is set.”
“Of course.” She dismissed herself with a curtsey, wandering away.
Diluc let out a deep laugh, one that didn't give him even the slightest silver of a smile upon his face. Maybe Jean was right in that look that he had given her, the one that told him he wasn't in a good mental state. Maybe even Kaeya had been in the right to have her check in on him. He wasn't going to stop.
When he was finally stopped, he ate the entire meal in front of him for the first time in two weeks. He was going to need the energy if he was going to make it all the way through Dragonspine.
But that was neither here nor there.
In the darkness of the early night, your own hands graced a letter, and you let out a curse. It was time to move again.
dym if you can make a part three of this? https://imagineimpact.tumblr.com/post/662121425710333952/omg-it-would-be-super-cool-to-see-the-second thanks!
First off, let me say a big thank you to all of you!!
I've almost reached 400 followers on this account and I want to hold some kind of event if the interest is there!
A happy new year to everyone, too! I've been working on a lot of submissions and have quite a few ready to post, I'm just going to get them sorted in the next few days as to not overload everything. I'm not sure what do do about blocked tags (advice I received was to wait until they fixed everything but I want to post all my work) too, so if anyone has any advice about all of that then please let me know.
Lastly, I have a question about a fic.
I have a multi-chapter fic that I want to post, about 20k long, that I wrote over the winter break that I want to publish and was looking for additional advice/survey of whether to post that here on Tumblr or elsewhere (my ao3 account, wattpad, etc). All advice is appreciated on this! I think it's my best work so far and I'd love to share it.
Last lastly, I hope you're all doing well! I know winter breaks like this can be hard for some people with family/the lack of, and it's one of the reasons I've been away for this long, so a reminder that anons and dms are always welcome!
Hello!! I fell in love with your latest Albedo one shot because man, relate😭🤚 Anyways if you are still taking reqs, can I ask for a s/o who supresses their anger? Like, it was put into their mind that anger and also sadness is vunerability they can't show. Pick anyone you want to pair up with them and yeah go wild ig lol
Btw, stay safe and hydrate❤
Perhaps I went a bit off the prompt with this one (my mind went to angst and I ran with it), but alas~
Enjoy!
Stop Hiding
Kaeya x G/N reader
“You don’t mind, do you, love?” Kaeya tapped his fingers on the kitchen counter, leaning across to you.
You stiffen at his words and press your lips into a fine line.
“No. Go ahead.” Your voice is flat.
But Kaeya has heard the words he wants to hear, and so what can you really say when he smiles at you, pushes himself off the counter and mutters a vague ‘I knew you would understand’?
When he comes around the counter to bid you a farewell for the day, his arm wraps around your waist and you feel yourself tense under his touch. He’s quick to notice.
“Are you alright?”
“Perfectly.” You give him a stiff smile. His eyes narrow.
“… right. Well, I’ll see you tomorrow then.” He kisses you on the cheek, a gesture you practically ignore.
He wanders out the door, leaving you alone with your thoughts in the cold of the destitute house.
Kaeya would be working late, so as he says. Why he was lying to you, you weren’t certain.
It’s was the cycle for the past few weeks; He would tell you that he had to work late, and you would stop by the Favonius headquarters to talk to Lisa only to hear about how Kaeya left hours ago.
It was infuriating.
But even as his footsteps trailed away from the house and toward wherever he was going, you kept that stiff smile on your face, the reflection of your pain in the glass cutting into your own self. You drop it. After all, why bother feeling something so horrible?
You have things to get done anyway; It’s not worth your time.
—
That evening, you find yourself wandering the streets of Mondstadt to take your mind off of the thoughts you were having. Unusual for you, you wander towards the seemingly single source of life in this entire city.
The Angel’s Share is brimming with energy and full of lively individuals this evening, as with every other. Diluc stands behind the bar quietly rinsing out a glass and absentmindedly working.
He glances up at you. “Oh, y/n, good to see you.” He gives you a polite smile, eyes returning to the glass. “Can I get you anything?”
“Oh, uh, maybe just some grape juice today. I’m not really feeling great.”
“Hmm. Alright.” His eyes seem to assess you for a moment, then he swiftly spins around to make your drink.
“Unusual for you to be here. If you’re looking for Kaeya, he’s upstairs.”
Your entire body tenses, and you feel yourself shutting down. “Kaeya’s here?”
Diluc looks over at you, actions in pause. “Is that not why you’re here?”
“You’re not kidding, are you?” The question was more like a resignment. Diluc could tell.
He slides the juice over to you. “You didn’t know that Kaeya was-“
“No, I didn’t. It’s fine.” You lift the glass to your lips, pausing just before you liquid touches your lips. “Thank you, for the juice.”
Diluc’s eyes betray him.
When you come to, you follow them and spot a chatty Kaeya talking to another patron with a lack of his energetic smooth self he usually does.
You watch Kaeya slip out of the booth, turning away from his conversation before he spots your gaze.
“Diluc, I’ll have another…” his voice drops to a whisper. “…oh.”
His voice indicates surprise to you, but you can’t bear to look up at him.
“So, working late again, huh?” Your voice is flat, but your grip on the glass of juice tightens, your gaze fixed upon it as if trying to break it with your mind rather than your hands.
“My dear, I swear it’s-“
“Right.” You finish your glass and stand up. “Thank you, Diluc.” You stick your hand into your pocket unceremoniously and take out the coins needed for the drink.
“No need. On the house.” His voice is quiet, as if wanting to leave little impact.
“No, I insist.” You give him a smile. You can tell that he won’t believe it but you can’t be bothered anyway. The coins clink on the counter - you know he won’t take it otherwise.
You turn your smile to Kaeya. “I’ll see you in the- Well, at some point. Right, love?”
Any other words you hear are lost on you as you wander out into the depth of the night, alone.
Kaeya watches you leave, an estranged expression plastered on his face. “They took that well.”
“It’s just like a Favonius knight to lack any proper observational skills or be even slightly investigative. It’s not like it’s part of your job or anything.”
“Don’t use this to slander the knights, Diluc.”
“You’re an idiot.” Diluc takes a long sigh, looking over at his brother. “The rage was seething in their eyes, how could you not tell?”
“Always trying to insist you know more about my own life than I do." He tisked. "If y/n was angry, then there would have been yelling.”
“You’re self absorbed, as always." Diluc lifts your half-empty glass from the counter and starts to clean it. "Kaeya, you have to realise that they don’t express anger the same way you do.”
“They weren’t angry.”
“They were. You could see it if you weren’t so blinded by your own ego.”
Kaeya huffed, but looked to the door.
“Why do you think they think you were here? Why did you lie to y/n?”
“I’m on a case-“
“Then you better go tell them that before they leave you.”
Kaeya laughs a little, then notices Diluc’s expression, flat as ever. The laugh falls off. There was never a joke.
“You’re serious. They… this doesn’t look good, does it?”
The bartender raised an eyebrow at the sudden switch of self-awareness. “The door is right there. You’re banned until you resolve this, one way or another. Get out.”
Kaeya scoffs once more, but couldn’t deny his mistakes.
His footsteps are nervous as they leave the tavern, though speed up drastically as he paces out the door and into the night.
His instinct tells him that his logic is wrong, but his mind tells him that the only logical place for you to go would be back home.
His mind races but his feet move faster than he can think and he’s going to reach you but he needs to know where. He starts running, hoping to catch up to you or at least spot your moving frame in the flickering lights.
You can hear the patter of heavy, striding footsteps leading away from your direction, toward the place you both call home. The stars twinkle above in a quiet peace that can only be meant to mock you.
You’re not sure if you even want to go back home at this point. Can you even call it home?
Even in your solitude, you refuse to show the decrepit weaknesses of a human. Tears refuse to fall from your eyes and you lean against the outer wall of Mondstadt in an attempt to force that shaking of your anger to cease. Even the cold of the wind blowing on your skin is a feeling you refuse to acknowledge. That's the one feeling I should be used to. It's a horrible thought.
You can feel yourself almost cracking - your eyes wander downward to the water below, the cliff a dangerous temptation of freedom.
By no means will you let yourself move, for fear of any display of irrationality you may subject yourself to.
“Stay still.” Your voice whispers to yourself, as if separate. “Freeze.”
The word itself reminds you of him.
A sound shatters the still air around you - the crack of rolling thunder. A storm approaches.
hi !! i was wondering if you could do a one-shot of albedo or kaeya seeing/catching you being insecure? like looking at yourself in the mirror and criticizing yourself or using special creams/treatments to "fix" them? (i would appreciate it if the insecurity was stretchmarks but its totally up to you !!!)
I actually also happen to have stretchmarks, though mine are on my thighs. They're more faint now but I remember when I was younger actually trying to get rid of them, and when they started to fade I kind of missed them and so I stopped using the oil.
So I suppose this is kind of inspired by that.
Anyway, enjoy!
The Lines I Trace
Albedo x gn!Reader
Early home from an experiment that had gone perfectly as planned, Albedo strolled down the streets of Mondstadt with a pleasant smile on his face, unusually so. He couldn’t wait to tell you all about how everything had went so well today.
He already knew your response; You would smile and congratulate him, giving him a kiss or two and wrapping your arms around him excitedly. He looked forward to that warmth.
When he entered the house, quietly as ever to surprise you with his early return, he was confused to see you standing in front of a mirror, a look of judgement directed at yourself as you smeared a few drops of a treatment cream onto your upper thighs. You looked upset, your entire expression drawn into itself as you let out a quiet sigh.
Albedo carefully approached the doorway, examining your actions. Your fingers traced the outlines of those lines of your thighs, the ones that he had also loved to trace when he woke up in the middle of the night or before you, watching you sleep beside him.
He didn’t really understand why you were so upset, but he knew that you were and that’s what was important.
He calls your name softly, trying not to startle you.
You startle anyway, quickly hide yourself behind the mirror. “Albedo…” Your voice is surprised, but it’s withdrawn more than anything. He lets out a quiet hum as he approaches you.
“Are you alright, my love?” He stands where you were, a short distance away from you as to not make you too uncomfortable. He’s seen you like this before - with this little clothing, that is. He knows more than anyone that you’re a little bit shy with your body.
But now, it clicks in his mind.
“I… wasn’t expecting you to come home so early. Just… pretend you didn’t see anything.” Your voice quivers, upset.
“I’m not going to pretend I didn’t see that. Come here.”
He offers you his hand. You meet his eyes for a brief moment but cannot manage to maintain eye contact as you peer away, taking his hand with much hesitance.
He pulls you in front of the mirror, in front of him. “What were you putting on your skin?”
“It’s… it’s embarrassing, don’t worry about it.” Your eyes fixate on the marks in the mirror, assessing yourself. He notices, because of course he does - it's Albedo, the most observant person you know and possibly the person with the keenest eye in Mondstadt.
He runs a hand over the marks. “Stretch marks are caused from your skin not growing as fast as your body.” His fingertips delicately trace the lines, feeling the residue of the treatment against them. “So, see? They’re a natural occurrence.” You plants a soft kiss on your shoulder. “They’re one of the things that fascinate me because they’re so beautiful.”
He watched your expression slowly shifting in the mirror. You have small tears forming in your eyes, and he wraps his arms around you, placing his head on your shoulder.
He doesn’t want to see you so dejected as he had found you. Ever. “They’re a mark of you being who you are. I can't stop you from attempting to remove them, if that is truly your wish. Perhaps, though, with time you will be able to see the remarkable nature of them.
You give a small smile in the mirror, and he knows that he has you.
“Maybe one day you would allow me to paint them-“
You laugh. “That’s enough, Albedo. You can’t expect me to think you’re serious when you say things like that.”
“I hardly joke.” His expression only has a soft, caring smile. “If you let me draw you I will.”
You turn around in his arms, ignoring the mirror as you face him.
“I know you might not cease holding your insecurities, but I want to see you happy with your body. Happy with who you are.” His eyes twinkle in your gaze, his hand lifting to wipe the tears trying to stain your cheeks. He wouldn’t let that happen.
“Thanks, Albedo.”
“There’s no reason to thank me.” He gives you a soft kiss.
You can’t help but give a soft smile, gently running your hand through his soft hair.
“Now, if you won’t let me paint them, at least let me kiss them…”
Hi, how are you? I just wanted to say I recently read your “harsh words” scenario and bro? You are a ////REALLY//// GOOD WRITER. Like, seriously on spot with diluc and kaeya interaction, the way you build up tension, honestly, truly amazing, I don’t think I can compliment enough on how well thought out the scenario was, you should be proud of yourself, for real. I can’t wait to read more stuff from you! Hope you have a wonderful day!
MY HEART ❤️
Seriously I am so glad that you liked my fic! and this ask? You have really made my night.
Honestly, I had that fic written a month before I posted it but I was worried about how it would come across, so to read a comment like this really makes me glad I posted it.
I hope you have such a wonderful day!
(And ps, I saw your Venti ask too and I LOVE IT! Such a good fic idea and such a detailed request! I will be 100% writing it when I get some free time~)
I hope you’re doing okay~ I really love your writing and it has given me new ideas to daydream about. I just keep having these thoughts about teaching the genshin characters how to French kiss (#^.^#)
JUST IMAGINE HOW CUTE AND AWKWARD SOME OF THEM WOULD BEEEEE
It’s okay if u don’t do it but I just like this idea :))
My first scenarios request! I love this idea so much, it's so adorable. I was thinking "just imagine-" and then realised that wait, I can just write it! SO, here you go~
(ps; wasn't sure what characters you wanted so I just picked a few. If you have any more or any specific ones you want, do let me know)
Also, referring to French kissing as Fontaine kissing bc Fontaine is the in-game France equivalent and I laughed at the idea.
Teaching the Characters to French Kiss
(Kaeya, Diluc, Scaramouche, Albedo)
(Mild nsfw? Touchy-feely stuff)
Kaeya:
“You seem a little too excited for this.”
Kaeya laughs at the comment. “Well, my little snowflake, you did tell me you wanted to show me something, and when that something has the word 'kiss' in the name I have every reason to be excited.”
You can’t help but laugh at that. “Flirty as always.” You lean closer. “But are you ready?”
“Oh, are you going to teach me by demonstration?” He teases, pulling slightly on your top.
“Of course I am.” Your gaze flickers to his lips, then his eyes. “You do like to learn by experience, don’t you?”
“When you’re the one teaching me, certainly.”
“Good.”
You meet his lips, and he quickly acts in reciprocation. You deepen the kiss and he pulls you closer, letting your tongue dominate him. He follows suit, moving his tongue and giving you a few moments of glory before pushing you back against the bed and taking over. You grip at his collar and he runs his hand up your body, letting the kiss take over you. Your thoughts become hazy.
He parts from the kiss and you whimper. “Well, I can tell you liked that.” His thumb runs over your cheek as he watches you pant lightly. “But you do always tell me that I’m good with my tongue so I shouldn’t be surprised.”
He smirks. "You really are something." His hands find your waist, pulling you closer to him and then, with a sudden movement, you're on your back with him leaning over you. “And you learned to do that without me?" Kaeya's lips find your neck for a quick kiss before he moves them to whisper in your ear, "Perhaps you could show me again and let me satiate my jealousy."
His words are teasing, but you're not about to say no.
Diluc:
Diluc stands across from you at the bar after closing hours. Of course you're welcome there whilst he cleans, considering that you're his partner after all.
“Hey.” He calls to you, leaning over the counter. “You’re staring at me again.”
“Mm. Come here.” You pull out the stool next to you, and he shoots you a strange look.
Intrigued, he does so.
He says your name softly. “If this is a ploy to get me to-“
“Shh, I just want to try something. Shift closer.”
He huffs at your interruption but follows suit, curiosity striking him.
“Good, good.” You reach over and lace your fingers with his. “Mm, okay, are you ready?”
“I suppose so.”
“Good. Close your eyes.” Your voice is quiet as you stand up. He does the action without speaking, without moving. You unlace your fingers from him and trail them up toward his neck, leaning in and brushing your lips against his as a soft of warning.
His lips part as if by command, and you let out a contented sound before you lean forward and press your lips against his, enjoying the kiss for a few moments before pushing your tongue into his mouth. He lets out an involuntary sound and grabs your waist, pulling you closer but also pulling away.
Diluc’s eyes are lidded when he meets yours. “My sweet…” He trails off, not sure what to say.
“Well, did you like it?” You ask as you snake your arms around his neck.
He hesitates, a blush rising to his face as he looks away. “I… Yes. It was more than a little pleasing.”
“Perfect.”
“Might you… show me again?” He shrinks back slightly as if unsure of himself. You chuckle slightly and lean forward.
“Of course I can.” You stop just before his lips, watching as his eyes flicker with anticipation. “Would you like me to teach you how to? We can practice until you get it right, if you like.”
“Mm.” He hums. “I think I would like that very much.”
He meets your lips. You smirk against them, leaning in.
Scaramouche:
“You want to try what?” Scaramouche stares at you in a huff. Yes, you were most certainly interrupting his work, but you knew that he didn’t want to do that work anyway.
Otherwise, he would not have let you straddle his lap in his chair, work discarded on the desk the way it currently is.
“It’s called a Fontaine Kiss.” You lean closer, your body flush against his. His eyes trail over you, his hands resting on your thighs.
“Mm. Fine.” He sighs “You’re not going to leave me alone otherwise.”
“Mhm.” You dismiss his complaining and lean in. He hesitates into the kiss, but relaxes pretty easily.
Then you slip your tongue into his mouth, and he hesitates even more. You were about to move away but he raises a hand to your cheek and pulls you closer to him, letting you run your tongue over his. He shifts in his seat, moaning into your mouth.
You part from him. “Mm, see, you-“
He pulls you back down, seemingly determined to replicate your actions. He slips his tongue into your mouth.
This time it was your chance to moan. He smirks against your lips, clearly pleased with himself.
“Mm, I’m a fast learner.” His hands slip back to your thighs.
“It would seem you are.” You stare into his eyes, anticipating his actions.
“Well?” He narrows his eyes. “Don’t make me tell you to do it again.”
You let out a quiet chuckle and lean back in.
Albedo:
"Albedo." You tap on the table across from him, watching him as he works on an experiment. You had been watching him for a while, and impatience was beginning to fester inside you.
"Hm? Did you need something?" He asks as he lifts his head from his calculations.
"What would you say if I told you I have... a little experiment, let's call it, to try?"
He stares at you curiously. "What kind of experiment, exactly?"
You circle the desk and make your way to him, barely leaving room between you. "I can almost guarantee that you'll enjoy it." You wrap your arms around his neck.
You could tell by his upturning blush that he was recalling the last time you both had 'experimented' together. He clears his throat, peering away as if it would hide the flush on his face.
"Ah, okay. I suppose if you can scientifically prove that I will enjoy your test then I will be the subject of them."
"That's what I thought you would say." You kiss his cheek, lingering for a few moments to feel the heat that rises there. "Well, are you ready?"
He nods carefully, examining your expression.
"Good. Close your eyes." You smirk. "Standard protocol." It was a cheesy thing to say, but it works.
He does as you say, lips twitching slightly as if he knows what you're about to do.
You kiss him. A simple kiss to start - you know you have to go slow with Albedo. Then, you let your tongue trace the bottom of his lip, warning him before you push it deeper.
Despite how slow you were to reach that point, he’s still surprised - you can feel that in his hesitation. But he slips his hands around your waist and eases into it, seeming to assess your movements with his own tongue.
When you pull away, he gives you no chance to breathe, pulling you back in and replicating your exact movements as if he was teaching you.
He lingers for a moment, then pulls away. “That’s… Ah.” He takes a short moment to catch his breath. “I see your technique, but if you’ll allow me to show you, I think I can… improve it.” His hands on your waist shift, gripping it firmly.
omg it would be super cool to see the second ending of that diluc angst! i love the way you articulate your writing sm, reallyyyy hits me in the heart
So... I sat on it for like a week and then realised that I didn't like what I had (for reference, it was a different version of that bar part where Diluc apologises, except in the alternative angst end, reader and diluc don't make up and they leave to stay with Kaeya for a while).
It wasn't bad but I wanted something for the end of the other one.
So, here you go: Diluc Angst alternative ending
(If you haven't read the first fic you can here)
Harsh Words: The Morning After
(Diluc X Reader: Part 2)
You weren’t quite sure how you had ended up back here.
After all, the moments you could remember were clouded in a haze - the kind of smoke that makes you think if you just try hard enough to remember, you will.
Of course, you can’t remember much, being so far hungover and having been so drunk that the memories would never arise again. The still moments, however, are there; Near silent flashes of Kaeya and Rosaria joking about something, reaching over to you, pushing a tankard of alcohol your way, over and over and over again.
And Diluc.
Diluc, who had watched you from his place behind the bar all night, occasionally passing by you and making quiet remarks, more directed at your party than yourself. In doing so, he had created a looming fog over your time that night, never allowing you to escape your problems. Not even his watchful eyes.
Perhaps they were the same thing.
“Good morning, my dear.” Diluc brushes the hair out of your face, leaning down to plant a soft kiss on your cheek.”I have to leave early this morning, so I’ll have Adelinde take care of you for the day.”
“I… right. Okay.” You place a smile on your face and close your eyes, feigning a still-sleepy state of mind. “Well, I hope that goes well for you.”
You flutter your eyelids lightly, Diluc’s own gaze boring into you as if assessing you thoroughly, searching for something. “You have a headache, don’t you?” He lifted his hand to your face, tracing his nail over your bottom lip. “You’re hungover.”
Of course, he’s right, but the sternness in his voice in comparison to his soft touch is nearly shocking. You stay silent, giving a slow nod.
“Hm.” His finger pauses on your lip. “Yes, you should stay in the manor today. Usually, I would not be so insistent, but with the sheer amount you drank last night, it seems to be the best option.”
You hesitate. Your thoughts focus on the oddly looming feeling of it all, as if you are a child in trouble. Like you’re back to square one, being infantilised once more.
The very reason you had been drinking at all.
“Hey, Diluc?” You ask, trying to sit up. “Did we talk last night?”
He stays silent, eyes steady. His hand grips your forearm. It prevents your movement.
“We did. I apologised to you for…” He cleared his throat, dropping the sentence. “You don’t remember?”
“No, I-”
“You were rather drunk.”
It’s your turn to stay silent. You swallow, hard.
“Kaeya really shouldn’t have let you drink that much. Irresponsible as-”
“You were the ones serving the drinks. If you thought I was in danger that much, you could have stopped-”
“You really do say anything to excuse Kaeya’s actions, don’t you?”
“Not this again.” The realisation hits you, rather sharply. “Oh, archons. We’ve come full circle.” It’s a sudden hit, the memory of how you had even gotten here. “You really don’t trust me around Kaeya? What, you think I need to be protected from my own friends?”
“It’s not that I don’t trust you, my dear, it’s just that Kaeya-”
“I can protect myself. I don’t need you putting warning signs on all of my friends.”
Those eyes, baring into yours, cloud over, darkness overcoming his whole demeanour as he crowds closer to you, looming over. “Really, can you?” His hand on your forearm tightens. You whimper quietly, feebly trying to move away.
“Diluc, you’re hurting my-”
You sharply inhale at the feel of a sharp pain before you even know what it is - the digging on his fingernails into your skin. You close your eyes, trying not to show the forming tears.
“If he ever tried to hurt you, Y/N, you would be completely powerless. Without me there, he could do anything to you and your wouldn’t be able to protect yourself. That’s why I do this.”
Your eyelids open on their own, the tears you were trying to conceal flowing freely from you. “You’re hurting me.”
Diluc seems to freeze, his face washing to a blankness, a void depravity.
Then, as if realising what he had done, he releases your arm and jumps back from you to the bottom of the bed.
“My dear, I didn’t-”
“Don’t call me that.” Your voice is quiet.
There is silence.
Your eyes avoid his, and through the blur of your tears, you notice something perhaps benign: You’re not in his room. You’re in that guest room that he had forced you to sleep in, the room where he would only ever have you sleep if you had fought.
The tears fall harder, and you slip out of bed. “I’m going into the city.”
Diluc stands and blocks your path. “My… Y/N, you really shouldn’t leave the winery-”
“Don’t stop me this time.” The tears trailed, and you knew they were staining your cheeks. “Diluc, get out of my way, let me get…”
The words trail off. You’re not dressed in the same clothes you were in when you had gone out, meaning that he must have helped you change, or changed your clothes when you were unconscious.
He takes your hand, a sudden action. You flinch, pulling away.
“Please, Y/N, stop and-”
“Just leave me alone.” You sigh, choking back the onslaught of tears. “I need my things.”
He’s silent as he steps back, moving out of your way. He watches as you search, finding your clothing and quickly fixing yourself up. The brief moments you do look over to him, you notice the tears in his eyes too.
“Will you let me walk you to the city? You can’t go alone.”
“Diluc.” You shake your head, turning away from him. “I’ll be alright. I need… I need to be away from you right now.”
“I’m sorry.” the words are seemingly forced out of him by a push of guilt. It pangs your heart, but it doesn’t touch your mind.
“I know you are.” Your words are nearly a whisper. “But I can’t do this.”
He doesn’t stop you. He doesn’t say anything as he watches you walk out of the room, watches you walk out the large front doors, not even stopping to look over the table at the breakfast he had had prepared for you to have in his early absence.
He can’t focus on much right now. His business is outside the city and he has to get going, but his mind wanders ceaselessly to how you are, whether you’re okay.
Whether you’re going to go cry to Kaeya.
He would check on you later, he swore it. He would make sure you were okay, whether you liked it or not.
You had other plans. You know he would look for you, but you were about to test just how far he would look.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing my request about Scara! It was really comforting, it made cry a bit but it also brought a smile to my face. You write really beautifully and managed to capture the loss of a pet perfectly!! I hope you have a great day/night!
I know this is like 2 months later but I've been thinking about this for a while and I just had to say, I'm really glad I could make you feel better! I hope you are doing well and I hope you also have a great day/night!
Could i request Diluc angst oneshot where reader and him get into a big disagreement or argument where Diluc makes them cry and feel really bad about themself so they go and end up hanging out with Kaeya a bit much cause he offered to cheer reader up and Diluc won't apologize. until he see's his s/o hanging out with Kaeya
I actually wrote 2 different versions of the ending for this, but this is the one I decided to go with! If you want the more angsty version do let me know.
Anyway,
Harsh Words
Diluc x Reader
Screaming. Yelling that could be heard throughout the Dawn Winery residence late into the night, heard only by the maids, the night security, and perhaps a late worker or two.
And of course, by the two individuals who held the voices.
It was rather unusual for the two of you to be at odds; and, on the occasion in which you were, it wasn’t nearly to this degree.
But the two of you were outright screaming at each other. It wasn’t even about one thing anymore - it was everything. Whatever you had been arguing about had reached the point of irrelevance; It never should have reached this point and you knew that, but you were under fire and you couldn’t stop.
All you knew was that this was Diluc’s fault, and that you couldn’t take this kind of argument.
“If you just thought about your actions for once-”
You cut him off, “Oh don’t try me with that, you’re the one treating me like I’m an idiot and trying to control my-”
“If you had just listened for once and been less of a selfish bitch then I wouldn’t have to!”
His words had cut far deeper than either of you had expected, and you physically recoiled at the words, a sudden wave washing over you which forced tears from your eyes. The truth in his words was irrelevant - It felt true, even if it wasn’t.
You turn away from him. In spite of your state, he makes no move toward you. None, not even to give you the slightest feel of any comfort. You knew - he wanted the words to cut through you.
You go to the door and slip on your shoes, leaving the room as fast as you humanly could.
You can’t take this anymore.
But you don’t make it past the front door. As if by telepathy, Diluc has two of his night security waiting by the door in a stance showing you that they’re ready to make sure you don’t leave. They block your path, silent in their menace. When you turn around, only then do you notice Adelinde and Hille quietly staring at you. Diluc’s footsteps down the stairs are a slow horror, an even pace which served to only emphasize that feeling of dread; Very easily, this felt like the perfect time to be murdered.
The drawl of footsteps approach, yet cease a few meters away - he’s far too distant to do anything himself. His eyes lock on yours, quietly assessing you.
“Diluc, let me leave.” You hiss through streaming tears. You nearly choke on the tension in the air.
He doesn’t say anything for a moment. His eyes don’t show any expression, show any remorse or guilt, or even happiness. Truly, there is nothing in his eyes.
“Let me make myself clear: You are not leaving this premises in the middle of the night. Do you understand me?”
“Not even slightly.”
Silence. His eyes flicker, the way they do when he sees an abyss mage, or when Kaeya makes a comment that goes a little too far - pure anger.
“Adelinde, fix up the guest room.”
“No need. I’ll be leaving now.” You scoff.
Diluc tilts his head, peering over you and towards his security as if to say ‘don’t you fucking dare let them through’.
Then another look, and you feel yourself being pushed into the house again, the slam of the doors behind you.
A wave of anger washes over you, and you can’t help the excess of tears that fall, harder now than they had been before.
Diluc holds his ground, staring at you silently. You shake your head and look away, not sure what to do with yourself. Their staring puts you in pure disarray.
“Adelinde.”
“Yes, sorry.” She mutters, bowing and taking her leave in the direction of the guest bedroom in order to prepare it for you.
When she’s gone, you shake your head. “I’m not going to be sleeping.”
“Then stay in your room. I don’t care.” He huffs, turning away and wandering back up the stairs, his footsteps seeming less menacing now.
The argument was done.
Your eyes catch a light outside the window, seeming to exist a far distance away. Maybe it was the fire of a hilichurl camp.
What time was it? Surely the sun would be up soon anyway.
Fine. You would leave then, no matter what.
When you got to your room, you actually did manage to sleep. Not nearly enough; An hour was nothing in the long run, but it was still just slightly enough to not feel entirely exhausted.
Still, the sun was up when you arose, and you lay in the bed, uncertain as to what would happen when you left the room.
If Diluc wasn’t going to apologise, you wanted nothing to do with him.
So, after a little while of resting, it was a surprise to hear a knock at the door. You were summoned to breakfast. Nearly the entire time, you and Diluc sat across from each other - an oddity indeed considering he would always insist that he wanted you seated beside him - this time, however, you were as far from his as possible within the confines of the seated table. The usually empty seat felt hard beneath you, not softened by an everyday presence. Your usual seat to his right - where your plate had been placed before you had taken it to where you were now - was empty.
Neither of you could look into each other’s eyes. The silence, broken only by the light clinks of cutlery, felt burdenous.
You expected him to say something, anything really. You could barely eat the food on your breakfast plate, and without any words, you didn’t feel all too comfortable anyway. You let out a quiet sigh and stood up, tucking in your chair and lifting your plate to take it back to the kitchen.
“Where are you going?” Diluc’s voice was quiet but the harshness in it was unmistakable.
“I’m not hungry.” You looked down at the plate in your hands. “I’m going to Mondstadt.”
Diluc stood up suddenly, pushing back his chair and stepping close to you. The sudden movement caused you to shutter slightly, and he pulled back a bit. Still, he tore the plate from your hands and placed it on the table. “When you return, be ready to have a serious conversation.”
Oh.
You opened your mouth to speak, but then huffed and turned away. “Right. I’ll look forward to getting yelled at again.”
Diluc scoffed, “Stop acting like a petulant child.”
“I’m not doing this right now, Diluc.” Your feet are moving before you can even think about it. This time, as you approached the door, no one was there to stop you. You left with no present company to watch over you, and you knew that today was going to be a long, long day.
——
Mondstadt thrives with life, as per usual. Because of how bright and pleasant the place is, any spec of gloom is extremely obvious on a day like this.
You took to the adventurers guild to take some commissions. Maybe killing some hilichurls or slimes would take your mind off of it all, or maybe just delivering some needed materials to someone.
The entire time you had been speaking to Katheryn, you felt eyes watching you, but you didn’t want to make it obvious you knew. Alas, it was only moments later that you startled at the feeling of a hand on your shoulder.
“No need to be so surprised.” The familiar voice chuckles beside you.
“Good morning, Kaeya.” You let out a soft sigh, the exhaustion of the day before wearing into you. You thanked Katheryn and turned your attention to Kaeya. His eyebrows twitched and his expression shifted as he studied you.
“What happened?” He asks rather blatantly, eyes clouding over. “Was it Diluc?”
You took a deep breath. “Wanna join me for commissions?”
Kaeya scans your eyes. “As long as you tell me what’s wrong.”
“Come on.” You nod, wandering out of Mondstadt with him.
The slowly falling night brought you back to Mondstadt. You agreed to go to the tavern with Kaeya, a subtle kind of thank you for spending time with you today. It wasn’t like you were doing anything else anyway.
The tavern was already busy before you got there, people crowding around for a nights drink. You subconsciously step towards Kaeya as if shading yourself away from the crowded atmosphere and he is wary of your proximity. He draws you to his side, a friendly notion, and steps inside before you.
Charles waves at you both from behind the counter. Kaeya quickly orders a round of drinks and takes you to a table away from the bar.
“Hey, look who’s been dragged in.” Rosaria wanders over, quietly making soft chatter with you. It wasn’t unusual for the two of you to spend some time together.
Kaeya eventually wanders away, grabbing your drinks and bringing them back over.
Time seemed to dwindle away, the mindless chatter with your friends giving you more than ample distraction from anything else that might have been happening.
“Master Diluc! Didn’t expect to see you here today.” Charles’ voice rings out.
Of course, that wasn’t going to last long.
You lift your head slightly, tensing up. Diluc is scanning the room, twisting his wrist lightly as he speaks quietly to Charles; The words miss you. You freeze as your eyes lock. For just a moment you’re caught in that discerning gaze before he nods at you and turns back to talk to Charles. Kaeya draws your attention back away, and you slip back into your conversation, not wanting to deal with anything else.
“I’ll get another round.” Rosaria gets up and makes her way through the tavern, leaning over the bar and making another order for the table.
“How many are we on?” You ask, already flushed from the… how many glasses had you even had?
“Five.” Kaeya laughs, leaning on your shoulder. “But now that the killjoy’s here, he’ll stop us from having our well-earned fun.”
“I heard that.” Diluc scoffed, passing by you.
“Good.” Kaeya wraps his arms around your waist and pulls you closer to him, more out of a delicate affection than anything else. Diluc’s eyes narrow at his brother, who just laughs in response.
“Get your hands off of-“
“Oh don’t worry, brother. I would never keep them somewhere they don’t want to be.” Kaeya mocks. “You, on the other hand, can’t say the same.” Even with his words, he loosens his hold on you and leans back a bit.
Rosaria returns with your round, greeting Diluc casually as she slips back into her seat. Your pissed off boyfriend wanders away back to his work.
It clicks in your hazy mind that the only reason he’s here is likely because you are. You laugh at the thought, then clink your tankard to the group and drink.
—
As the evening wears down, many people in the bar until it’s pretty much only your group and a few others left there. Diluc lets out a soft sigh as he watches you, trying to soften that jealous pounding of his heart. He takes a sip of his own drink - apple cider, of course. He could never slam back drinks the way that your group currently were. Where had the hours gone?
Oh, no. How many drinks had you had? Whatever was next, he swore to himself that he would make sure that it was watered down. At this rate, you were pretty much welcoming alcohol poisoning with open arms.
Kaeya, wobbly as ever, decides to be the one to approach the bar this time (mostly because Rosaria was leaning against the table, head folded into her arms as she groaned). Diluc shook his head. “No, no. The three of you will drink this whole tavern dry if I don’t stop you.”
“Oh, I’m not here to get any more.” He leans on the countertop. “I just want to know what the hell you did.” Kaeya motions over to you. You’re just giggling at Rosaria’s complaining, leaning over and patting her on the head.
“I’m not talking to you about this.” Diluc leans back, crossing his arms stubbornly.
“Suit yourself.” He straights up. “I should probably get her out of here before you say something stupid.”
“I’m not going to be saying anything stupid.” Diluc shakes his head, looking over the list of all the drinks you’ve had this evening. “You’re all wasted.”
“And yet, you haven’t said last call.”
Seemingly to spite him, DIluc immediately does. He signals over to Charles to round up the remaining people. He knew to leave you last.
Kaeya’s laugh is enough to haunt him. “You make this right, Diluc.” He runs his finger over the counter. “Otherwise I will.”
“Get out of my sight.”
The cavalry captain laughs again, then wanders over to your table. He practically drags Rosaria back up, but she pushes away from him and made her own way to the counter - always a good spirit, she paid for her own portion of drinks and left. Being a nun, she probably didn’t need to use the money elsewhere.
Kaeya was two steps away from just carrying you out the door, but through his drunk mind he finds the clarity to understand just how absolutely inappropriate that would be to do, especially in front of Diluc. Alas, you lean on his shoulder as he assists your steps.
“Where do you think you’re going?” Diluc’s voice calls out, as if to stop you both.
“Usual billing.” Kaeya calls back.
“No, no.” You both look back at him. He shifts on his feet, eyes locking with yours. “I’ll be damned if you go home with him.”
“Then damned you are.” You roll your eyes, turning away.
He calls your name softly. “Step away from him. Come here.”
You take a deep breath. “I am so glad I don’t have to remember any of this.”
Diluc places a glass of water in front of you. “Drink this. You wreak of alcohol.”
“And you wreak of your hatred.” You sit down in front of him, knowing that it wasn’t about to get better.
Diluc’s eyes flicker up to Kaeya. “Get out.”
“Not happening.”
“Kaeya, this doesn’t concern you.”
“Their safety is more than enough concern.”
“It’s alright, Kaeya, just wait outside.” You pipe in, not wanting even more stress.
Kaeya agrees, quietly slipping out the door. Charles is told to escort him away, an act which may have varying success.
Either way, you sat in front of Diluc, not sure what exactly to say to him.
“I’m tired, Diluc. I’m tired of this. I can’t put up with-“
“I’m sorry.” He blurts out, interrupting you. “Please, hear me out.”
“I’m not going to remember-“
“Then I’ll tell you again when you will.” He leans over the counter, not wanting to be apart from you. He calls your name again, as if to hold your attention, “Can we talk about this?”
“I think we talked about this already.” You groan. “Yesterday, plenty of yelling. The Maids and guards can confirm.”
Diluc takes a long breath out. You lift the glass of water and take an even longer sip.
Maybe the barrier of the counter between you made you feel better. But, as tears sprung to your eyes, you felt so, so much worse.
“Do you hate me?” You ask, your voice squeaking. “Do you want to break up with me.”
“No, Y/N.” He reaches for your hands, but you had pushed your stool too far away from him beforehand that he couldn’t. He circles around the bar and gently grabs both of your hands, soft enough in his hold for you to be able to pull away. “Don’t ever say that. I love you.”
“Then, why?” You sob, turning your face away from him, hands still in his. “Why did you yell at me? Why wouldn’t you talk to me this morning?”
“I…“ Diluc stops himself, taking a deep breath. “I was angry. We were both angry.” He shifts, pulling out a stool and sitting in front of you. “I wasn’t acting rationally.”
“When you said you wanted to talk this morning, what were you going to say?”
Diluc hesitates, gripping your hands just a little bit harder. “I was going to ask… I was going to ask if you were happy.” He admitted, quietly. “But I can’t do that. I can’t put you through that.”
You tug him toward you, pulling his hands close to your face. “Why would you say that? I love you.” You sob into his soft skin.
He takes his hands away from your gently, slipping them around your waist and pulling you close to him, into his lap. He tightens his grip. “I’m sorry.” He repeats. “I’m so sorry. I never want you to cry.” He feels his heartbeat heavily in his chest, a distraught washing over him. “Don’t ever destroy yourself like this again.” He runs a hand over your back.
You don’t say anything. You’re way too drunk for many more coherent thoughts to pass your lips. You lift your head and plant a soft kiss on his cheek, and he softly kisses your forehead, pulling you back to his chest so that you don’t try to kiss him anymore - He wasn’t about to let that happen, you were far too drunk.
Diluc was ashamed of his thoughts. His guilt, rising only when he saw you in the present company of his brother, showing affection and finding comfort anywhere except for him. He didn’t want to admit it to himself, nor to you, but as you cried into his shoulder, he couldn’t help the wave of disappointment in himself that washed over. Why could he never be there for the people who needed him most?
“Come on, finish your water, let’s get you home.” He insists, though he holds you tightly still until you stir.
You take the water, sipping it with a slight indignance. He would have to apologize to you again in the morning, but he would do anything to get you to trust him again.
Chongyun: Xingqiu I’m in love with you.
Xingqiu: I know???
Chongyun: What, how do you know?
Xingqiu: We’re dating?
Chongyun: No we’re not?
Xingqiu: We’re not???? *voice crack*
hi !! is it ok if i request a one-shot kaeya x reader? i've had this phrase in my mind for a bit and i just dont know what to do with it. "uh.. kaeya? you can stop holding my hand now..."
Yes, of course it is! I may or may not have written this when I saw it and it may or may not have been really early in the morning when I did, but I love getting prompts like this!
Enjoy!
No Hurry To Let You Go
Kaeya x Reader
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
“Happy Windblume Festival!” You greet another guest to Mondstadt, one who had just asked you for directions and was now on their way up to see the church of Barbatos. Quite the crowd had seemed to amass on this particular day, and it was hard to even see the usual faces around - Marjorie would be making a lot of sales today, as would Flora, but the sheer amount of people stopped you from witnessing the sight.
Yeah, you weren’t too good with crowds. The thought of stepping into this, where you would be pushed around and have to say 'excuse me' a hundred or so times was rather offputting, for many reasons. So, instead, you hovered by the blacksmith’s forgery, waiting for the crowd to disperse ever so slightly into the festivities.
The problem was, though, that you had been waiting for three hours.
Your eyes wander through the crowd to seek out a familiar face - any would do. Why did there have to be just so, so many guests here today?
“Hey, fancy joining me at the tavern for a bit?” A voice beside you - a familiar presence indeed - appears out of nowhere. You startle slightly, much to his amusement.
“Ah, good afternoon Kaeya.” You smile, your eyes meeting his. “Aren’t you busy with, you know, the festivities?”
He scans over you, a light smile on his face as his eyes twinkle with interest. “As a knight, it is my duty to ensure that each individual enjoys their time during the festivities.” He chuckles to himself. “You seem oblivious to the fact that you’ve been standing there for hours now.”
“You noticed, huh?” You're slightly unamused by the teasing. “Well, you know I don’t really, uh...”
“Oh, you’re afraid of getting lost in the crowd?” He asks, reading you with such ease that it’s almost frustrating.
In a way, though, it’s the cause for that smile spreading across your expression. “Well, not exactly. I was just, um, waiting for there to be a bit less people.”
He chuckles. “Right.” You might as well have told him you could fly with how much he had seen through your words.
“I really am.”
“Oh, I believe that you are, but it’s because you lack fondness of such crowds.” He leans closer. “I believe you still haven’t answered my request, by the way.”
“You’re request? Oh! Right.” Your eyes wander away to look at the crowd for a moment. It was about time that you had something to eat anyway, so there was no real fear in going. Plus, it would give you an excuse to get through all these people. “Sure, I’ll join you.”
“Lovely.” He straightens back up, but leans back down for just a moment. You feel his hand take yours, adjusting itself slightly to your palm.
A heat rises to your face. “Kaeya?”
“We don’t want to get separated now, do we?” He chuckles to himself, stealing a quick glance your way before turning and taking the chance to guide you to his side.
No arguing with that logic. You release a deep breath, relieved that your friend had approached you. His presence beside you is a welcome warmth, and due to his status and stature, he has much more ease navigating the crowds than you would have if you were alone.
It takes about twenty minutes of walking before you find fresh air, the crowd not surrounding Angel’s Share. Usually this walk would take half that time, but with your slow pace navigating the crowds, it was far more tedious than expected.
Kaeya still grips your hand when you reach the tavern door. “Uh, Kaeya?” You hold up your clasped hands. “You can stop holding my hand now.”
“Hmm?” His eyes linger over the hands as he opened the door with his other. “Oh, I know.” He looks away as if mindlessly returning back to a task.
Instead, he grips your hand tighter and leads you into the tavern ahead of him.
“Wh- Wait-“ You stutter out, flustered at the notion.
“There’s no hurry.” He spoke simply, very much to avoid you mentioning it again.
“Kaeya-“
“Are you two going to keep blocking the doorway?” A tired voice rings out from behind the counter.
“Oh, Diluc, I didn’t know you would be working today.” You pipe up, trying to avoid the typical tense conversation between the two brothers.
“Festivities are typical cause for me to work. It’s due to be quite busy in here soon.” His eyes rest on Kaeya. “Of course, when people have a proper job to do, they haven’t the opportunity to rest during such occasions.”
“As always, Diluc, taking a chance to slander the Knights of Favonius.” Kaeya’s voice is unusually disinterested in the typical unfriendly banter. “We’re just taking a break before the crowds get any worse. A certain someone was near about to pass out from exhaustion.”
That’s when Diluc’s eyes flicker to your clasped hands. His expression shifts slightly as if he is rather amused by such a development. Still being polite, however, he doesn’t mention it. “If you’re that exhausted, then take a seat. I assume you won’t enjoy drowning in wine like your present company.” He says to you, turning his head to look into the interior of the tavern. “Find a seat somewhere. Away from me.”
Your hand is being squeezed - near suffocation - by Kaeya, who scoffs at his brother, “As always, you-“
“Thanks, Diluc.” You interrupt Kaeya and quickly pull him away from a potentially endless argument.
He’s indignant for a moment, then takes stride in front of you and leads you up the stairs for the utmost privacy.
Kaeya is unusually quiet as he leads you to a table in the corner, away from the few other people who are in the bar. Diluc is right; In a few hours, this entire tavern would be overfilling with guests.
Still, Kaeya leads you to a table and you both sit down, his hand still grasping yours. Was it overkill at this point? Most certainly.
“Hey, Kaeya?” You call again to grab his attention. He meets your gaze with a slight reluctance, as if pulled from a strange thought. It's unusual for him to be so reserved. You squeeze his hand. “Everything alright?”
“Why, of course it is.” He leans forward slightly, pulling your hand as if to have you do the same. “I’m right in front of my favourite person.”
Your cheeks tinge a light pink and he chuckles at the change. Your eyes narrow slightly - He’s doing this on purpose. “Is that why you’re insisting on holding my hand so tightly?”
“Hmm.” He hums quietly. “Well, perhaps I just want your attention.” He stares across at you. “Perhaps I wouldn’t want you to be thinking about anyone else right now, or want you to get lost in either your thoughts or the crowds.” His eyes scan yours, a delay for testing your acceptance of his words. “And perhaps, of course, I don’t want any other man to take your hand away from me.”
Your eyes widen a bit in surprise at his words. Though not unusually bold, they are certainly more, well, direct than usual.
He held your hand under the table, the two of your quiet as footsteps came approached from the stairwell. “Some wine and food for the table.” Diluc announces haphazardly, though delicately he does place the items onto the table. You look up toward him, and feel your hand being squeezed again.
The unusual action comes across more possessive than you had seen Kaeya before. It’s incredibly flustering for your thoughts.
Diluc notices how quickly you look away from him, and his eyes flicker to Kaeya. He notices something, but wanders away from the table regardless at the sound of your quiet 'thanks'. Perhaps he believed himself to be interrupting a moment - which, perhaps he was.
Finally, he lets your hand go, leaning back in his chair. “Now, my dear, let’s enjoy our time together while it’s still quiet enough for you.” He smiles delicately, as if moments ago he hadn’t spoken strangely.
You decide to play along with it, not certain how to deal with the stirring in your heart as you both lift your glasses and let the clink resound in the air when they meet, pushing away any other emotions you might be feeling.
