Synopsis: After weeks of juggling tasks of patrolling Mondstadt at night and serving customers, the lack of self-care seems to finally catch up to Diluc. You see this, and you do your best to support him by offering help and suggesting he take a rest, but Diluc continues to stay stubborn and refuses.
WC: 1.5k
Reblogs are greatly appreciated <333
WARNING: NOT PROOFREAD + MAY BE OOC
It’s been weeks since you’ve seen Diluc get proper rest. You see him handling business meetings, helping out the Dawn Winery, protecting Mondstadt as the Darknight Hero and gathering inside information as his side job as an informant, which has kept him busy, and it’s been worrying you that he hasn’t been taking care of himself.
You were on your way home to the Dawn winery, and you were beginning to think of a plan to get Diluc to get a rest without him coming up with an excuse, but all routes were futile.
Shortly later, you were greeted by Adeline at the door, “Welcome home, Lady Y/n, how are you?” You nodded a thanks as she took your bag to put away.
“I’m doing well, Adeline, thank you. How’s Diluc?” You questioned with concern, obvious in your tone. Adeline looked at you with a soft, knowing smile. “Master Diluc is in his office doing paperwork right now. Would you like me to make tea for the two of you?” She offered.
You returned her smile, “That would be lovely, if you don’t mind doing so.” You accepted, and so the two of you parted ways as she went to the kitchen and you headed towards Diluc’s office.
You arrived at his door and knocked, waiting for him to let you in. However, when no response came even after you knocked a second time, you decided to let yourself in.
Walking in, you were prepared to find Diluc busy writing and signing off on documents, but to your surprise, he was fast asleep, his head resting against the desk, piles of unfinished paper surrounding him.
You shook your head in disappointment as you knew this was going to happen eventually. Wanting to make sure he didn’t catch a cold despite him being warm due to his pyro vision. You quickly went out to get a blanket from your shared bedroom and covered him with it, being careful not to wake him up.
Looking at the piles of untouched paper, you took the initiative of cleaning up his desk and finishing off his paperwork, knowing that the moment he woke up, he would just continue to finish it rather than getting up to go get some rest in bed.
It was a good thing you’ve done these before with the help of Diluc when you first got married as a way to learn and get used to the business and workings behind the Dawn Winery. You have offered to take over the bureaucracy side of things, but Diluc disagreed, saying this wasn’t something you should burden yourself with doing and instead find something you’d probably enjoy spending your time on.
There was a knock at the door, “Lady Y/n, may I come in?” Adeline’s soft voice came from behind the door. Stealthily, you stood up, opened the door for her and put a finger on your lips as a way of notifying her to be quiet. She nodded her head in understanding after seeing Diluc behind you and walked in silently as you moved to make way for her and the trolley she brought with the tea on it.
You were finishing off the last bits of the paperwork that Diluc had left, sitting at a different desk in his office, as you didn’t want the papers or your breathing to interrupt his slumber. When you were nearly done signing everything off, you saw him shifting in his chair, not that far in front of you as you looked up.
Realising that he had fallen asleep, Diluc quickly sat up straight, causing the blanket you had placed on him to fall onto the floor. He looked down at his desk, expecting to see the papers he had last left there, but to his surprise, all he saw was an empty desk.
Seeing this, you stood up and headed towards him, “Don’t worry about the documents, I finished them all,” You explained, getting closer to him.
He looked back up at you, “You didn’t have to. I was going to finish it off-“ You cut him off as you shook your head in disbelief, “Diluc, darling, I wanted to do it, plus you fell asleep mid-signing off one of the papers, I don’t know how you managed to pull that one off."
His eyes softened as he knew he couldn’t argue back, you only wanted to help him after all. He let out a sigh, “Okay, but next time just leave me be. There’s no need for you to bother yourself with trivial issues.
You deadpanned at him, leaning against his desk as you were now right next to him. “Diluc… You’re joking, right?”
“Do I look like I'm joking?” Diluc said, with the straightest face ever, which made you roll your eyes in irritation, as you did not share the same sentiment.
“Not funny. I’m really worried about your health, Adeline is too! Heck, even Klee asked me about you.” You complained, “she asked me why you seemed grumpier than usual.”
Diluc didn’t respond, he just leaned down to rest his head against your thighs, making himself comfy rather than straining his neck to look up at you. This made you automatically comb your hands through his surprisingly fluffy and soft hair.
You would expect his hair to be unkempt, considering all that he does, yet it wasn’t, and that's why you loved to play with it. Diluc doesn’t like to admit it, but he enjoyed it when you played with his hair, it made him feel safe and loved.
“Don’t think you can slide your way out of this one, Mister.”
He continued to lie in your lap, “Do I need to make an excuse to get out of this one?” He asked.
“No, not really,” You answered firmly. Hearing this, Diluc stood up abruptly and was about to leave, but before he could say something, you tugged at his arm.
“Where do you think you’re going?” You questioned, raising one eyebrow in suspicion. He turned to you, “I just remembered I had something to do at Angel’s Share.”
“You’re really thinking of your duties when I'm right here?” You scoffed playfully, “It obviously wasn’t that important if you’re off here dozing in your office, in fact, I think you should take this as a sign to take a well-earned proper rest.”
Diluc shook his head ‘no’, you looked at him in exasperation, “Fine then, if it can’t wait, then I’ll go and do it, you stay here and go to bed.”
Letting go of him, you made your way towards the door with full intent of doing his task for him, but you were stopped by Diluc bringing you into a hug.
“No way. Not at this time, when many drunk men are loitering around there, it’s not safe for you,” He stated with a small frown.
“I can protect myself, you know,”
“I understand that N/n, but I don’t trust the men there. Sometimes, there are travellers there that do not have any decorum, and unlike the locals who know not to mess with you, they wouldn't.” He explained.
“Then, would you be willing to put Angel Share to the side for the rest of the night and get some sleep with me?”
He contemplated it for a few seconds before finally giving in, “Fine, you win.”
It didn’t take long for both of you to be ready for bed after you freshened up and got dressed in PJs for the rest of the night.
You were lying in bed waiting for Diluc to join you, and when he did, you immediately moved closer to snuggle your way into his arms.
“I really hope you never overwork yourself to the point you’re falling asleep mid-writing,” You mumbled a little sleepy.
“Mmmm, depends on the situation at hand,” Diluc reasoned, making sure that you were comfy in the new position as he adjusted his arms to accommodate you better.
You just sighed in defeat, shaking your head and deciding to give up for the day, “I don’t get how you do it.”
“Well, when there’s someone next to you, that you know is worth pushing forward for, then I’m sure you'd understand too.” He explained sappily with a smile unconsciously forming on his face as he turned his head to look at your reaction.
Instead, he saw you fast asleep, releasing small, quiet snores. He shook his head in disbelief, “and she says I’m the one who needs some rest…”
“I love you.” He whispered as he closed his own eyes to get some rest, but to his dismay, he didn’t get to see the big smile that quickly formed on your face.
A/N: A lil smth because i've been obssessing over Diluc recently and this was a way of taking a break from revision
warnings/tags: written with fem!reader in mind, fluff, workaholic Diluc, soft Diluc, established relationship, lmk if I missed anything!
The first rays of sunlight streamed in the room as the sun began to rise. Your arm instinctively reach out to cling to your husband's waist.
Instead of the warm, steady rise and fall of his chest, your fingers met only the cool, smooth fabric of empty sheets.
Your eyes fluttered open, blinking against the soft morning light filtering through the heavy drapes of the Dawn Winery master bedroom. You rolled over with a soft sigh, your hand lingering on the spot where Diluc had been sleeping just an hour or two prior. It was still faintly warm, smelling faintly of clean linen and the rich, bitter scent of roasted coffee beans.
Right. It was his day to oversee the early shipments and open up the Angel’s Share.
Throwing a soft robe over your shoulders, you padded quietly down the grand wooden staircase. The manor was peaceful at this hour, the usual bustling energy of the maids and head houseman Elzer reduced to a quiet, respectful hum. Guided by the unmistakable aroma of breakfast, you made your way toward the kitchen.
There he was.
Diluc stood by the counter, already fully dressed in his crisp black trousers and a high-collared white shirt, though he had left his usual heavy coat hanging by the door. His fiery red hair, usually tied back in a high, disciplined ponytail, was currently woven into a loose, slightly messier version of his usual ponytail that rested over his shoulder—a surefire sign he had dressed in a hurry to avoid waking you.
He was leaning over a notepad, reviewing a delivery manifest with a focused frown, a steaming mug of black coffee in his hand.
Before he could turn around, you stepped up behind him, wrapping your arms securely around his waist and pressing your cheek against his broad back.
Diluc didn't flinch. He never did. Instead, you felt the immediate tension melt out of his shoulders. He set his mug down with a soft click and placed one of his large, gloved hands over yours, squeezing gently.
"Did I wake you?" his deep voice rumbled, quiet and raspy with remnants of sleep.
"The lack of my personal heater woke me," you mumbled into his shirt, tightening your grip.
A rare, low chuckle vibrated through his chest. Diluc turned around within your embrace, shifting so he could look down at you. The stern, unyielding Master of the Winery that Mondstadt knew was entirely absent, replaced by a warmth that rivaled the vision at his hip. He reached up, his thumb gently brushing a stray lock of hair behind your ear. His touch was incredibly tender, a stark contrast to the strength he carried.
"My apologies," he murmured, his crimson eyes softening completely as he looked at you. "The shipments from the northern vineyards arrived early, and Charles needed me to sign off on the tavern’s inventory before noon. I meant to slip out without disturbing your rest."
"You work too hard," you said, looking up at him. "You could let Elzer handle the morning shift for once."
"Perhaps," Diluc conceded, a small, fond smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "But the sooner I finish the inventory, the sooner I can return home to you."
He leaned down, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to your forehead, then to the tip of your nose, before finally catching your lips in a slow, sweet morning kiss.
When he pulled back, his hand lingered on your cheek. "Breakfast is on the table. Adelinde brought fresh Mondstadt hashbrowns from the market. Eat well, alright?"
"Only if you promise not to skip lunch at the tavern," you countered, holding up a finger.
Diluc’s smile widened just a fraction, a genuine spark of amusement in his eyes. "I promise. Now, go sit down before your food gets cold."
He gave your waist one last affectionate squeeze before reaching for his dark coat. As he walked toward the door, casting one last warm glance over his shoulder, the grand manor didn't feel quite so empty anymore.
childe and zhongli are too different. they both like you - they both know the other likes you - they just can't figure it out. childe confesses first, of course. immediately, actually. repeatedly. zhongli never says it out loud, but everyone knows with the way he watches you, the way he softens when you enter the room.
it quickly becomes a game of one upping the other with increasingly outrageous gifts and actions.
it's starts simple - childe buys you flowers one evening, and the next day zhongli sends you a larger bouquet. and then all of the sudden you have a pure-bread horse, a summer home in natlan, and a million mora.
childe starts constantly trying to drag you on adventures, holding your hand tight as he practically sprints through the city to get to the outskirts - away from anywhere zhongli might find you.
in contrast, zhongli takes you out to tea or spends hours in the library reading either to or with you. he likes when you read the same book, with you hooking your chin over his shoulder to see the page - unfortunately, childe almost always finds you two when you're alone.
he'll walk into the room all casual - "hey, [name], you busy -" and then pause when he sees zhongli with an audible, "oh. it's you .." of course, he'd never miss the chance to sneer at zhongli over your shoulder as he guides you away.
in private, childe often challenges zhongli to a duel for you affection, to which zhongli vehemently denies.
"you know, [name]," childe says one day, walking you down the street with one reluctant zhongli on your other side, "if we went out, we'd probably be unstoppable. a sort of power couple. world-domination, and all of that."
he pauses to point at zhongli, "what would you even do with this old guy? read a dictionary and quiz each other about it? talk about boring .."
"the choice is, of course, yours." zhongli pipes up, his voice smooth as fine wine.
"coward." childe grits out.
"dolt." zhongli returns easily.
if you choose to go out with childe, he'll brag about it for the rest of his life. zhongli and childe remain friends, but the poor old dragon won't go a day without hearing about your relationship.
"yeah, we're doing pretty great. thinking about getting married, actually, can you believe it?" he says, casually sifting through a shop's ring collection.
if you'd rather go out with zhongli, he's not quite as much of a poor winner. childe may complain about it for months, but zhongli is polite enough to not rub anything in his face. instead, he may ask childe for advice where he feels inexperienced.
"what do you think? would they prefer red or white roses?"
diluc & kaeya
two brothers who already fight about everything. and now, they have another thing to fight over - you! congratulations, you've made their rivalry ten times worse.
the moment kaeya realizes diluc, of all people, has a thing for you, he makes it his own personal source of entertainment. kaeya's new goal is to flirt with you the most when diluc is in the room.
he'll give you his best lines and suggestive looks - "you look positively ravishing tonight, [name]." "do you want to dance, [name]?" "should we go somewhere a little more .. private, [name]?"
only when he leaves does diluc finally come over, "he's used that line before," he tells you, handing you a glass of your favorite drink, "twice. maybe three times."
kaeya keeps track of your interactions with diluc, especially if diluc is getting flustered with you. he'll come up to you later, all smug, like "you should have seen his face. almost passed out, huh?"
it gets a little more complicated, though, when kaeya realizes you're actually someone he likes, and not just another way to irritate his brother.
kaeya starts constantly trying to get you alone. diluc starts constantly interrupting with several mundane tasks he 'needs help' with.
they are definitely the type two glare at each other when you turn your back, and then go back to smiling innocently when you look at them.
if you need help carrying something, they're both on it right away. kaeya can carry it. diluc can carry it. kaeya can carry you. diluc might 'carry' kaeya into the nearest horse trough.
"allow me, i insist." kaeya says, reaching for your bag.
"don't you have something to do for the knights? you are the calvary captain, or have you forgotten?" diluc retorts, smacking kaeya's hand away.
"oh, please, what calvary? they'll be fine without me while i help our dear friend. here, darling -"
"get lost."
"ouch, so cold."
you slip away while they start another catfight.
if you choose to go out with kaeya, neither he nor diluc will forget. diluc will keep giving you free drinks, but he charges kaeya extra when you're out together.
"if you need to get away from him .." diluc mumbles one evening, nodding to kaeya, "just let me know."
"excuse me, what are you saying to my partner -"
if you decide to date diluc, kaeya will back off - stop flirting -, but he teases you and diluc mercilessly. to the point where you both make it a point to avoid being alone with him.
"having fun with him, hm?" kaeya always says, "i always thought he was rather boring, growing up, but maybe that's just me. oh, well, let bygones be bygones, i suppose!"
alhaitham and kaveh.
you've turned their shared apartment into a war zone - to say the least. they already argued before, but once they met you, no dinner table has known peace. and the worst part is - they don't even realize they're arguing over you. not at first, at least.
you start to find them in the hall, near shouting at one another. and once they notice you, they both pause -
"oh. hello."
"good afternoon."
- before going right back to their screaming match.
they invite you over for dinner some nights, and it quickly becomes a competition. kaveh is cleaning, alhaitham is cooking, they're talking over each other at the table, at some point kaveh storms out, and you just sit there trying not to make things worse.
"how dramatic." alhaitham drawls, watching kaveh go before returning his attention to you, "have you finished the novel i lent you?"
kaveh, of course, falls first and falls harder. he starts buying you little gifts and sketching doodles of you next to his architecture work. he glows when you compliment him and sulks when you acknowledge alhaitham.
alhaitham himself is more subtle when he realizes. he wishes he didn't care, but he absolutely does. he definitely memorizes every little detail about you. if you mention wanting a book, it'll somehow appear in your apartment a few days later. if you're struggling with something, he'll provide a solution before you're done complaining.
the problem is that kaveh is trying very hard. alhaitham is not. kaveh will spend three days planning the perfect outing for you and him, and meanwhile, alhaitham will have won you over with a simple "i'm going to the market. you can come if you would like."
this is exceedingly frustrating for kaveh.
most days involve you spending your morning and afternoon with kaveh - he shows you his favorite sights in the city and buys (haggles) all the best food for you. and then, come evening, you sit with alhaitham and pour over your studies. he won't hover, but he'll point out any mistakes you make and offer to finish things for you if you grow weary.
they won't confess. not because they're nervous (well, partially), mostly because they both refuse to lose to the other. kaveh is planning the perfect setting. alhaitham is waiting for the most logical moment.
"[name]," kaveh pipes up over dinner one day, "are you free tomorrow? there's this new restaurant opening, and -"
"life can't just be about studying!" kaveh slams his hands down on the table, making the silverware jump, "you need to see and experience things!"
"is that why you're failing your classes?"
if you want to date kaveh, he starts acting like he's just singlehandedly won the archon war. he brings it up in every argument like it's his secret weapon.
"well. [name] likes me, so .." he trails off, shrugging in that 'what can you do?' kinda way.
"remarkable." alhaitham scoffs, rolling his eyes, "is that your personality now?"
if you choose alhaitham, you doom all of kaveh's friends - they have to listen to his sulking for hours.
imagine this ; you kiss alhaitham hello, kaveh sees, sulks and walks out of the room, and you don't see him for the next 6 hours because he's telling everyone who will listen (which is close to nobody) about this 'horrible betrayal' and his 'fatal heartache'.
itto & wanderer.
oh, hello big and little. loud and quiet. nice and mean.
itto falls for you first. well, by first, i mean immediately. like, you smile at him and he's a goner. head over heels, that guy.
scaramouche doesn't fall for you - or doesn't realize he likes you - for a long time. and even then, it's not like he'll ever admit it. he'll just .. start forcibly pushing any other suitors away from you to keep you for himself. healthy coping mechanism.
itto will announce his crush to the entire nation - "oh, yeah, me and [name] go way back!" (you met three weeks ago) "we're practically inseparable!"
scaramouche would rather die. but it irritates him anyway, how itto acts like he has a claim on you. he doesn't understand what you see in itto - why you keep him around. he watched you laugh at one of itto's jokes and nearly went into psychosis because it didn't even make sense! it barely had a beginning, much less an end.
scaramouche knows he likes you. itto knows he likes you. scaramouche knows itto likes you. itto does NOT know scaramouche likes you.
itto genuinely likes scaramouche and thinks they're good pals - he doesn't think someone like scaramouche could ever be a threat. i mean, come on, he practically towers over the little guy!
so, itto's always trying to drag you and scaramouche out on adventures. it only works because all scaramouche wants to do is follow you around, and unfortunately, all itto wants to do is lead you around. they orbit you, to say the least.
"look at us!" itto exclaims, an arm slung around your shoulders and the other hand playfully jabbing at scaramouche's arm, "a couple of friends!"
"no." scaramouche says, slinking to your other side to try and drag you away.
"best friends!"
"no."
"family!"
"no!"
you might assume that scaramouche would verbally abuse itto. and, you're right. but itto is like a rubber ball. nothing sticks.
"stop bothering them." he tries one day, grasping your wrist to take you somewhere else. somewhere far away from itto, "you're like a fly."
"aw! thanks, buddy!"
"that wasn't a compliment."
that's not to say they don't both want to keep you for themselves.
like, itto might frown one day while walking with you and say, "that wanderer fella is kinda cold, huh? maybe we should just do something alone, today. just you and me, yeah?"
meanwhile, scaramouche will find you and say, "he's a loudmouthed dunce. you can do better."
if you choose to date itto, he is instantly the happiest man alive. it's always "my partner said -" this and "my partner thinks -" that.
scaramouche starts disappearing whenever itto enters a room, but he still lingers around you when you're alone. he doesn't badmouth itto as much anymore, but he won't ever stop shooting him dirty looks.
if you'd rather date scaramouche, he is so smug about it. not openly - that would require admitting he cares - but internally, he preens whenever you hold his hand or kiss his cheek in public, especially if itto is there to see it.
speaking of itto - he really, really tries to be supportive. he would never jeopardize your happiness. but he doesn't really get it, "him? you're dating him? isn't he kind of mean? not that i don't support you! of course i do!"
𐔌՞. .՞𐦯: a bit half-assed, i didnt lock in as much as I'd like for this to look well writen LMAO
Pampered
Diluc (Genshin Impact) × Reader
To which you pampered a tired man who just so happens to be your husband
──── ୨୧ ────
It's a rare occurrence for you to wake up right before Diluc does. 4:00AM in the morning, when the not even one of the sun's many rays graces the sky. It's you, and the lovely silence of Dawn Winery.
Now, of course, there is a reason why you decided to wake up earlier than Diluc. This man, fast asleep right beside you, has always been the love of your life; hard-working, affectionate, and sweet amidst the cold front he puts up with people. You pride yourself in reaching that point in your relationship where he could find solace, where he could always write your name as an emergency contact, or when he needs to vent out his frustrations.
Recently, this poor man is reaching the dreaded end-quarter deadlines. Nod-krai merchants applying to be resellers especially as the knights expedition have ended (The Grandmaster is in no doubt, the trendsetter to this), and staying on top of the shipping dates. When you have a business as big as that, your deliverables upscale so much that it becomes harder to operate. With dawn winery being a well-known company that ships all across Teyvat, your poor husband, owner of the legacy business has to work very hard. As a doting and loving wife, who hates to see their husband losing sleep (and attention because she misses him just as much), you've conjured up a routine for one day of the week that's taxing but rewarding: waking up before Diluc to make breakfast in bed. Despite having servants that cater to both the manor and the wine business, there's something about cooking for your husband that makes you giddy; acts of service and all that. You manage to leave the bed silently, moving like a mouse until your destination: the kitchen.
Adelinde smiles as she watches you work. Your cooking was always a delight, and your help in the kitchen made the servants at ease. You'd make breakfast that fits the size of both servants and the head of the house. Today, it was toasted home-made sourdough, with a nice spread of avocado with lemon, a bit of rock salt, and sunny-side ups (You made mental notes, the first time on the maids' preferences on eggs beforehand, which made them very happy). For you and Diluc, you've added cold-smoked salmon on the bed of avocado, a squeeze of lemon, with a pinch of dill on a plate of fluffy scrambled eggs. Lastly a warm cup of coffee from your trusty moka pot. Before you could think about putting in a tray, you feel warmth on your back, and a head perched on your shoulder.
"Morning, love," you mused, wrapping your arm around his head and patting his hair. Instantly, he breathes you in and sighs in content, caging you in a soft hug.
"You got up too early," Diluc mumbled, and you laugh whole-heartedly. "I wanted to make you breakfast in bed, but since you're here, breakfast is ready."
Diluc would have wanted you to stay in bed and let the servants make breakfast, but at the same time, he couldn't help but feel very giddy about being cooked breakfast. He loves your cooking, very much. When he digs in, he is hit with lovely flavors; light salmon, the sweetness of avocado, the subtle herby taste of dill, made merry by lemon. Your scrambled eggs are also no joke, fluffy with a dash of milk and a subtle hit of cheese made for an egg that works both as a standalone and as a side dish for your sandwich. Diluc couldn't help but close his eyes in content.
"How is it?" You didn't need to ask, especially when his face is saying everything, but that look when he opens his eyes and it's full of adoration, as he smiles so softly, it's worth asking over and over again.
"I love you so much."
Now, of course, work must continue. Being the spouse of the Radvindr meant that you manage certain parts of the winery. Diluc insisted you don't, but with how overworked he is, you wanted to help out. Lunch rolls by, and the maids prepare a Sweet Madame. Adelinde's Madame Chicken is no joke, surpassing even Good Hunter's (you'll never admit it to Sara, though).
The day goes into its normal course; helping Diluc on some of the paperwork, observing the vineyard, and quality-checking the fermentation. It's smooth-sailing, as it should be with the hydrometer reports being normal. Once it was around 3:00PM, you go back to the kitchen for snacks, and it's crackers with a dip of greek yogurt, dill, dehydrated onions and garlic (This is onion and garlic powder to anyone making said dish), and a hint of Worcestershire sauce. You make your own version of a nice glass of grape juice, with sparkling water, a small squeeze of lemon and mint. Now, it's delivering it to your husband and sitting around in his office now that your tasks are complete.
You do two knocks, and a muffled come in comes from within mahogany doors. You enter your husband's office, and there he is, a stack of papers one side, and a smaller stack on the other. It makes for a good frame for a picture, especially when the light from outside the room spills into the study. "I brought smacks, and grape fizz." You set it on a tea table, and sat down on the couch in his office. Diluc, slowly stood up, and walked over to where you sat, sitting beside you, and smothering his face on your shoulder. His hair tickles your neck, and you can't help but coo as you pat his head.
"Tough day?" He groans, hands circled around your waist.
"My back is killing me," He mumbles, and you feel sorry for him. He's been cooped up in the office, for a while now, signing paperwork. "Want a massage later?" His arms tighten around you. "That would be nice..."
The two of you stay like this, until he had to reluctantly let go from his stomach grumbling. His face remains red, and you chuckle at his embarrassment.
He takes a bite and his eyes widened. "It's good." A few chews. "Is this yogurt?" You puffed out your chest with pride. "With dill and Worcestershire sauce! I've been experimenting with your kitchen for a while now." The moment he drinks the grape fizz, he's amused with how well you've paired the grape and the crackers.
"You could make Angel Share's tavern dishes with this," he mused, taking another bite. "You sure, you don't wanna gate keep it?" Diluc looks at you confused.
"Gate keep?"
"You know..." You wave your hands, thinking of a synonym for this word. "Like, keep it to yourself, monopolize it?"
"Is that what kids are saying these days?" You laugh, sipping on your own fizzy drink.
"Maybe? I learned it from Bennet." You stay like this for a while, until you have to send the plates back to the kitchen, and Diluc has to come back to work.
Once the sun sets, it's time for your well-awaited rest. Luckily, Diluc does not have a shift at Angel's Share that day, meaning you get to pamper the tired man. You've set up your workspace, from the bath tub being filled with warm water and bubbles, the scent of lavender in the air. Your vanity, storing your toners, serums, and moisturizers lay perfectly, as if you're ready to fight every microscopic grime and bump on you and your husband's face. Another drawer is also opened, revealing massage oils. You are the pamperer 3000 with all of these laid out. Diluc, who had seen the status of your shared room is pleasantly surprised to the fact that you still have enough energy to do an entire self-care night routine, but also to take care of him as well. Warmth and adoration pools in his heart, and he's back to hugging you close with just how much you're willing to spend time with him.
You bring him into the bathroom, and strip him off his clothes. His vest and his button down. He also helps you with your clothes, insisting that you shower with him. Bathing with him is relaxing and fun, especially when it comes to his hair, slightly wavy, and a bit frizzy from neglect. Massaging the sandalwood-scented shampoo makes him hum in content, and his eyes close with how your hands carefully lessen the mini headaches he sported throughout the day. Next was the conditioner, which smelled the same as the shampoo. You spread the white soapy liquid and lather them in his hair, brushing out little tangles with your fingers.
Diluc then took hold of a shampoo, your shampoo, with your favorite scent, insisting he pampers you too. You let him, and you were glad you did because his hands could easily massage your head. You're sitting in front of him, his chest flushed against your back, and he's asking if he's doing it right.
"You're so good at this."
"I am?"
"Mhm. I feel so relaxed already." This puts a small smile on his face.
Once the two of you were done, you take him to bed, sitting him in front of the vanity to dry his hair and do your little routine on him. His hair was put up in a headband, and you lovingly doted on your husband as you caressed his skin. Toner, then serum, then a nice moisturizer to top it all off. By now, your man is groggy, and saving the massage for last rounded off the sharp edges of today. You do the skincare on your face, and you are aware of just how observant Diluc is... by that I mean, he watches you pamper yourself with a rare softness in his glassy red eyes.
"Why're you looking at me like that?" You asked oh so sweetly.
"I'm adoring the love of my life," He'd reply, dazed, and half-lidded.
Finally, you are ready to fight the cold knots in his back. It starts off with lathering his skin with oil before pressing deep with your thumbs, looking out for discomfort. What you hear instead are sighs of content. Sometimes, Diluc would moan, and he'd be embarrassed right after when you'd giggle at the sound. Once you're done, you clean up your station as Diluc rested. You give yourself a pat on the back once you saw just how soft Diluc looks. It is when you finally enter the comfort of your bed did you feel your efforts pay off. Diluc immediately engulfs you in a warm embrace.
"I had fun. Thank you for pampering me today, love," He says, eyes closed. You tuck away a piece of his hair, and reply, caressing his cheek down to his neck. "No worries. You worked so hard today. You deserve it," you whispered so sweetly as the two of you silently entered dreamland, holding each other as the day ends lavishly.
✦ synopsis: living as a human is exhausting.. being a cat is ten times better.
✦ ft. Durin, Wanderer, Diluc, Lohen /x cat!reader/
ㅤꨄ︎Durin
Durin is still learning human interaction and often he gets exhausted by them. Or overwhelmed. He isn’t exactly quite proud of intentionally avoiding socialising.
When he was getting away from the horrors of interacting with other people because it was simply too much today, Durin stumbled upon a cat.
Not any cat, a fluffy cat!
He didn’t know when and what happened back then, but now he was back in the Knights of Favonius Headquarters cooing at the fuzzball.
As time went by Durin got more and more attached to you even if you always ended up running away from him, he knew your usual hangout spots and there wasn’t another cat in Mondstadt as fluffy as you.
Following your regular routine you had ran away from him again when the evening faded into night. This time Durin had made a headstrong decision,he was gonna follow you!
For a moment he had lost you out of sight, looking back up and seeing his feline friend that he had cuddled, kissed, caressed so much turn into a human being..
A suffocating wave of embarrassment hit him, making his heart beat rapidly.
ㅤꨄ︎ Wanderer
Wanderer has always found peace in the wilderness where no one could bother him. Getting lost in his thoughts, he heard a soft meow from the bushes behind which snapped him out of if.
He rose up coolly from his resting spot and picked up the small feline swiftly.
“What a troublemaker.” He scoffed before settling back to his resting spot, pulling you onto his lap.
There was no way Wanderer was leaving something that small and valuable out in the wilderness and that’s how you end up in the Sanctuary of Surasthana.
You didn’t know which was worse, being a cuddle toy to Wanderer, or receiving amused smiles from the dendro archon herself.
On one particular night, Nahida had snatched you from his grasp — your transformation magic was getting more unstable than before and the God of Wisdom had sensed that right away.
In the morning the puppet was more irritable than the normal amount. He had looked everywhere but couldn’t find the cat anywhere.
He was at the end of his limit when he went to Nahida and heard a familiar purring but from a human with cat ears. It clicked.
The second hand embarrassment clicked too.
ㅤꨄ︎ Diluc
For a few days the maids of the Dawn Winery had been chatting about how the attic was possessed, eventually it reached Dilucs ears too. Out of sheer curiosity and to give his employees a peace of mind he went to check it out.
Much to his entertainment, instead of finding something scary he found something adorable. Diluc lifted the kitten tenderly.
After coming down from the attic, he asked Elzer to formally summon the maids to the ground floor.
Once all the staff gathered around, Diluc spoke calmly.
“I assume you are all quite informed with the attic phantom. Behold.” He said as he lifted the small animal.
There was a minute of silence before the hushed giggles came. This wasn’t usual for master Diluc, he had a reputation for being serious and efficient. Summoning his staff for this was utterly out of character for him. Who could have known that master had a soft spot for cats?
The winery had never been this livelier before and it all thanks to this tiny kitty. Master Diluc had changed too, it had been around 6 months from that incident on and much to everyones surprise he had started courting someone. The strange thing was whenever Dilucs lover would appear the kitten without a fail would disappear.
ㅤꨄ︎ Lohen
“Oh, so thats how it is?” Lohen said to the cat who bit him. In all honesty, he probably scared you with how sudden he approached you from the back. Jokingly he hoisted up you in the air.
“Air jail for bad kitties who bite.”
Your paws span in the air and you tried to get away from him with angry meows. How dare he! First he scares you now this!
“How persistent..fine.”
As soon as you hit the ground the bolted away from the man, jeez whats his deal.
The next day he had found you again and you hissed at him — very normal reaction nothing humiliating. Yep definitely lets go with that.
A habit it had had become of him to search for the endearing feline in the evening to play around with it.
That time of the day had come again, yet this time instead of his furry friend he found a human in its usual spot with awfully recognisable cat ears.
The fact that you had that type of ability was highly intoxicating to him, Lohen would not utter a single word about this encounter.
The following days he’d rub your belly more than usual, kiss your forehead and spend more time with you — he just wanted to see if he could get you to confess to this on your own with this special attack.
Diluc will blush like a guilty child whenever he gets to see your body. You could be married for half a decade, maybe even have a number of children, but if you ask-
"Hey, Diluc, my bra claps is stuck. Can you help me?" His face will become indistinguishable from his hair.
You are truly sincere. Given how many lies Diluc has uncovered in his life, this is the most important trait for him in an individual. He knows you're never going to potentially stab him in the back, both literally and figuratively. Plus, if you ever give him feedback or advice, he trusts you think this is for the best.
You're nice to wake up to. After long strenuous nights as the Darknight Hero, Diluc sleeps like a log in your shared bed. Once dawn arrives, he slowly opens his eyes and sees your radiant self by his side. He'll sleepily snuggle against your warm frame and pull the blanket closer to you both. (Adelinde is going to have to pull you both out of bed lol).
You love him for him. You two actually met when he worked undercover in Nod Krai and became closer over the years. Finally, he asked for you to move with him to Mondstadt. You had no idea he was a wine tycoon or was a former knight. You also accepted his vigilante status, recognizing he was saving people at the end of the day. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and you have always appreciated that. Therefore, it has never mattered to you how many gifts he can shower you with or how big your mansion will be. As long as he reminds kind, courageous Diluc, that's good enough for you.
You hate the Fatui. Enough said.
Please don't copy, steal, or feed my work to AI. Thank you!
♡ Absolute good boy. He's really sweet. Really gentle. Even if you're not in a relationship with him, he's usually polite to a point.
♡ That being said, he definitely does have a darker side. I can see him becoming much more yandere when he's pushed to the absolute limits. He wouldn't care where you go as long as you go with someone from the Winery but that rule would be scraped. Now, you're not allowed to step an inch further away than the farthest of his vines.
♡ But other than that extreme, he's truly a sweet boy. He gets flustered easily. And you oh so love teasing him in front of others. Maybe a slightly too suggestive comment and his ears and cheeks flush a deep red as he closes his eyes to remain composed.
♡ You're his sweetheart and as such, consider his wallet yours. While he doesn't enjoy needless spending in any aspect of his life, he'll look the other way when you find a pretty necklace you like. In fact, I bet he's willing to buy you a home in the city just so that he knows 100% you're safe and cared for.
♡ The yearning is hard with this one. He's not publicly affectionate, hell, he'll be as red as his hair if the two of you walk down the street holding hands. But in private... Oh boy. He adores your thighs. It's just the shape of them that makes him stare. Squishy or skinny, he doesn't care. He peppers them with kisses every night while looking up at you.
♡ He definitely likes tradition. Not so much as his partner having to submit to him or anything - but I can see him definitely taking the traditional route. He'll open doors for you, push out your chair, pays for everything and will definitely get down on his knee when he's sure you're the one. (You are)
♡ Diluc is the type to lean in and gently wipe away food on your chin with his thumb. Likes when you dress up just for him. He most certainly loves it when you wear his clothes. So please don't push him away when he offers his coat for you and it so cold :(
♡ Let's you do his hair and nails, even if it looks ridiculous. And should anyone criticise it, he's either giving them a hard retort or threatening to kick them out of the tavern.
♡ On nights he is at the tavern, he's very bored dealing with the same old drunkards. He likely wouldn't show it externally, but he'd melt if you come to keep him company. Not that he'd let you stay out for too long. So you often find yourself being carried to your room or walking alongside him to the Winery.
♡ Adelinde knows you by heart. Your room is always spotless and ready should you want to sleep at his place.
♡ Despite being so sweet, I think getting to know him is difficult. He wouldn't be mean per say, but you don't want to know how many women try to wriggle their way into his lap. He's wealthy and handsome and strong and... Erm.
♡ You'd have to coax him to get to know you. Be consistent. Be considerate. He's the type to enjoy silent company first . It'll start with him offering to walk you home. Then, your orders are on the house. And before he knows it, he's smitten.
♡ Him taking breaks are rare. There's always something to do in Mondstadt but don't think for a second he wouldn't make his way to you when he's free. That being said, please make sure he takes breaks. He's very stubborn in that regard but since it's you, he'll sigh and settle into your lap for just a few more minutes.
♡ Bonus points if his bird likes you.
♡ More Bonus points if you don't like alcohol. Or at least, not as insistently as everyone else.
Special:
♡ ADORES chin scratches and head pats when he's laying in your lap.
Arataki Itto is completely ecstatic when you proposed the idea—I mean, he gets to pick up his girlfriend and flex? That's amazing news to him. He would grin at you before picking you up, his invisible tail definitely wagging right now. Pet his head while you're at it and he won't let you down all day.
Varka was busy when you busted the door of his office open, and when you asked him to do the trend with you, he was very glad. He'd be anywhere else than near his paperwork anyway—and it gives him a reason to be with you. He would look at the camera before smugly grinning and picking you up with ease, might even flex his free arm while doing so.
Alhaitham was reading when you sweetly asked him to do the trend with you—he sighed, but accepted anyway because he couldn't bear seeing a pout on your face. Though if you really thought that you had disturbed his reading, you're really wrong. The guy picked you up easily before resuming his book in his free hand. All while you stood on your shoulder flustered and surprised.
When you came in his office with the demand, Wriothesley was smug about it. Smirking as you nervously asked him as you didn't want to bother his work. But your worries flew away when he effortlessly picked you up. Even using you as fitness material as he raised you up and down before carrying you bridal style in his arms.
Childe already knew this trend and couldn't wait to do it with you—before the video you were showing him even ended, you were already tossed over his shoulder. His head was planted on your thigh as he side-eyed the camera with a smirk.
Kaeya would first tease you about wanting to do this trend with him—but would then walk toward you when you would turn around and tell him "Nevermind." He holds you close to his head, thigh against his temple, he would even bring your hand to his lips with his free hand and place a soft kiss on it.
After Diluc finished his shift and came back home, you asked him if he could do it with you—you wanted him to rest but really wanted to know his reaction. He did it with no complaints—he picked you up everytime you asked him anyway. He would graciously pick you up, and place a kiss on your thigh—though expect him to carry you bridal style to the bad because that man is tired and needs his wife to cuddle him.
catching up on the scarabia manga and this got me thinking about how jamil would act in his club after the mask comes off post-b4 like
jamil in bball club pre-b4: it's unfortunate that we lost, but that just means there are things we can improve for next time. let's discuss strategy.
jamil in bball club post-b4: society if floyd just fucking cooperated and listened instead of doing whatever the hell he wants on court. i am sick of you all.
summary: you can't help but be overwhelmed with your love for your boyfriend, and can't help but take it out in your own strange way.
aka; you get cuteness aggression and take it out on your boyfriend.
pairings: housewardens & minajael tealrajah x gn! reader
cw: pure fluff
note: this was kinda difficult for me to write because all my motivation evaporated within one night, but I want to get back into writing more! Hopefully once my job starts up full force I still will have energy to write more (probs not).
wc: 2.9k (~350 per character)
Master List
❥ Riddle Rosehearts
Riddle Rosehearts was adorable. It was just a fact to you. He was small, with impeccable fashion and just the cutest face known to mankind. Have you seen his pout? Gosh you just wanted to squish his cheeks every time. This thought couldn’t help but bounce around in your head, like a rabid animal trying to break free of its cage.
You can only keep an animal caged for so long.
It manages to break free one evening, the two of you are on a stroll through the rose gardens. You can’t stop looking at the ruby haired housewarden, the way the sun frames his face, his gray-blue eyes alight with passion as he speaks of his time during the equestrian club, his pink lips forming around each syllable, and slowly you find yourself zoning out. The intense need to shower him with affection buzzes throughout your being, until it overwhelms you to the point of it almost being painful.
You wrap your arms around his small frame, halting your walk as you squeeze him as tight as you can, swinging him lightly as you try to get all your pent up energy out. Riddle is flabbergasted, absolutely spluttering incoherent words as his mind tries to comprehend how fast his world just shifted. A second ago he was trying to ignore your subtle glances towards him, now he’s wrapped in your vice-like embrace.
“Wh-what are you doing?!” Riddle stutters, face a bright red, nearly matching the color of his hair.
“You’re just so cute!” You groan, squeezing him a little tighter to emphasize your words. “I can’t hold it in anymore, ‘m sorry.”
Riddle tries to regain his composure (a difficult task as you nuzzle into him), speaking softly, “Don’t apologize. I do not mind your shows of affection. Though I do request you keep these moments for us alone.”
“Okay,” You agree, grin bright as you get even more giddy at the prospect of being able to do this again, and again, and again. So excited, that you bite his cheek softly before pulling away.
“What in the world was that for?!” Riddle’s voice cracked, any composure long gone once again.
❥ Leona Kingscholar
While Leona was intimidating, and can be quite scary at times, you couldn’t help but remember that at the end of the day…he was still a lion. You loved to watch the way his ears twitched, or how his tail swayed, or how his canines (which were sharper than a human's) poked out when he smiled smugly. It just made you want to squish him into utter oblivion. Who allowed him to be so cute!
While Leona wasn’t a huge fan of being overly affectionate in public, he indulged your overly affectionate habits behind closed doors. Which is where you were right now, laying beside the lion beastman as he dozed the day away. Once again, that clawing affection rose up within you, the incessant need to claw and squeeze him until the energy building up in you finally goes away.
You tried to hold back, as Leona didn’t like anyone waking him up…yet, his nose twitching cutely was the death of your restraint. You lunged at him, wrapping around one of his beefy arms and squeezing around him like you were a boa constrictor. Yet it wasn’t enough, it never was. So you lay yourself completely on top of him, hugging his head to your chest, smothering him (quite literally) with your love.
“What are you doing, herbivore?” Leona’s sleepy voice asks, muffled. “Are you trying to kill me?”
“Yes,” You state flatly, squeezing his head to your chest a little tighter before giving him room to breathe. Slitted green eyes meet yours, and you feel your heart melt as his pupils dilate as they meet your own.
“I question why I allow you anywhere near me with your homicidal affection,” The lion mumbles, closing his eyes once more as he relaxes further into your embrace.
“Because you love it,” You hum, leaving a splatter of soft kisses across his face.
“I love you,” He corrects, tugging you closer (somehow). Of course, Leona cannot let you have the last laugh, turning his face and giving your cheek a light chomp, his smug self dozing off once more.
❥ Azul Ashengrotto
Azul was such a gentleman, and it drove you absolutely nuts. The quiet ways he cared for you, the way he was always close to your side (and if he wasn’t, then it was the twins), the way he always gave you discounts (it wasn’t even discounts at this point, he just fed you for free). Ugh, and the cute blush he gets every time you thank him, it makes you want to eat him up! Oh and how he was so shy, yet clearly ate up all your affection made everything ten times worse.
“You. Are. So. Cute!” You punctuate each word as you squish Azul’s cheeks. He allows you to do so, ears a bright red as he takes in your strange form of affection. It was a needed break from creating fine prints on his contracts.
“Th-thank you, my pearl,” Azul stuttered, voice muffled as you continued to pinch and squish his cheeks.
He would have been offended by this not too long ago, before you both were together. It reminded him of his mother, who would always pinch his cheeks when he was little, reminding him of times where he was bullied for his weight, for his merform. Yet once his heart opened up to you, and your bond grew, he couldn’t help but be reassured by your bouts of love. It reminded him that he didn’t need to work for your affection, and that you truly did love him for who he was, and not just what he could offer.
Unfortunately for him, the squishing was not enough for you. From your spot on top of his desk, you lean in, causing the mer’s eyes to widen at your proximity. His form utterly stills, acting like this was the first time you’ve done this (it was far from that), only for you to bite his cheek.
“Darling!” Azul gasps, heart fluttering violently at your actions.
“I’m hungry for takoyaki,” You joke, nipping at his reddened cheek once more before finally pulling yourself back.
Azul’s brain officially shuts down, jaw dropped. Give him some time to try (and fail) to regain his composure.
❥ Kalim Al Asim
This sweet boy. The question is when aren’t you feeling cuteness aggression towards him? Kalim tackles you in a giant hug? You’re squeezing the living daylights out of him right back. He kisses your cheek? You kiss him all over his face. You’re both a gross mess of affection and glee, it lowkey disturbs everyone around the two of you. But neither of you could care less when you both love each other so so so so much it physically hurts to keep it inside.
“Kalim!” You practically squeal with laughter as the housewarden peppers the entire side of your face with kisses. You do your best to pull away from your overly affectionate boyfriend, who then lands ticklish kisses to the side of your neck, giggling along with your laughter. You try to push him away, face aflame as you glance at the few people who pass you in the courtyard. You fail that mission quickly as Kalim pouts towards you, which instantly bleeds into a beaming grin (he can’t pretend that he isn’t the happiest guy ever with you).
“I can’t help that I love you so much,” Kalim says without a hint of shame nor hesitation, which makes your insides turn from a gooey mess, to a violent buzzing storm.
With no rational thought, you tackle the sunny boy down onto the bench, no longer caring of the stares of others. Kalim is a willing victim, having been on the end of your cuteness aggression many times. You both squeeze each other as tight as possible, and the fact that he is copying your actions makes you feel even more aggressive.
“I love you so much too,” You reply, head buried in the crook of his neck. With skin pressed to skin, you can’t resist the urge to bite, which leads you to chomping his neck in a quick and light bite.
“Hey!” Kalim giggles, not even trying to wiggle away from you, leading you to bite his shoulder, then cheek to finish off your attack.
“Sorry, I couldn’t help myself,” You lamely apologize (you both know you’re not sorry, and that it will happen again). “You’re just too cute.”
“It’s okay,” Kalim easily bats off your apology, arms looped around your waist as you still lay on top of him on the uncomfortable bench. “You should do it again!”
You both fed into each other's affection crazes.
❥ Vil Schoenheit
It was an awful, bubbling pit that you had to keep to yourself. Every time you saw Vil’s newest photo shoot, or watched the newest movie he was in, that crazy urge to chomp his arm off festered inside you. Could anyone blame you? Vil was beautiful, skilled, amazing, gorgeous, and so, so sweet in his own (slightly backhanded) way. You weren’t the only one with those feelings, but you were by far the luckiest, as you can call him your boyfriend.
Ugh, and the fact that Vil has let you on set for his photo shoots? It’s torture in it’s own form, one you willingly put yourself through every time. You do your best to act like a normal human being as Vil poses, switches outfits, makeup changes, then poses again. You pretend like your brain isn’t barking like a feral dog as you bring him his water bottle, reassuring him he looks perfect when he asks for your opinion. You hate the knowing look in Vil’s amethyst eyes as you scuttle away.
It isn’t till later when you’re both safe in his room, tucked under the blanket of night when all your pent up energy releases.
“You’re too pretty to be kept alive,” You grumble, squeezing Vil with all the strength you could muster. Vil could only let out an amused sigh, allowing you to exhibit your cute tendencies. As much as you wanted to take a bite out of your too gorgeous boyfriend, you had begrudgingly agreed to not leave any marks (or do anything that could lead to marks), so you settled on wrapping yourself like a koala around Vil and trying to merge you both.
Vil absentmindedly runs a hand through your hair, frustratingly unaffected by your attack. So, you use the last tool in your arsenal, and press your lips to his feverishly. Of course Vil reciprocates, and you can’t help but wonder what he sees in you, but that thought quickly dissipates as he easily leads you into a more coherent kiss, taming your rampage into something more gentle until finally the energy in your system is gone.
“What am I going to do with you,” Vil mumbles fondly, tucking you close into his side (you’re already pressed against him, but it’s a sweet gesture nonetheless). He’ll never admit that your cuteness aggression for him does something he’s not too proud of.
❥ Idia Shroud
Idia is too beautiful to be a recluse shut in. You cannot comprehend how your boyfriend thinks he’s ugly. From his flaming blue hair, bright yellow eyes, and that cute shy smile he gets around you. Ugh, just the thought makes you want to squeeze his head till it pops…in an affectionate sense. Idia finds the notion insane. He can barely comprehend the fact that he has a partner, let alone that you love him so much it makes you go crazy. He would just be existing and you would spring at him like a rabid raccoon. Who even does that?? It’s not like he’s a romance protag, yet you make him feel like one.
You do your best to not jump him when he’s gaming. You know how seriously he takes it, and you don’t want to make him upset if he fails in getting an ssr, or a rare item. So you sit (im)patiently on his bed, pretending to scroll on your phone when you’re secretly eyeing up your pretty boy. He’s completely lost in his game, a giant, maniacal grin spread across his lips as he mashes the button of his controller. He looks so happy it makes your stomach flip.
You really, really tried to be patient, sitting there for a few hours, yet when Idia gets into a game, he can play it for days without a break. So you give in to your desires, slithering your way towards his seated form, stealthy coming up behind him. Your stomach twists in knots at the anticipation of finally smothering your boyfriend in the affection he deserves. You pounce, nearly jumping into his lap as he lets out a high pitched scream. You can’t help but laugh at his reaction as you wrap your arms around his neck, squeezing his form into your own.
“Wh-what are you doing?!” Idia exclaims, voice cracking on a few syllables.
“Loving you,” You grumble, peppering kisses into his neck as you nuzzle into his side. You feel the heat of Idia’s hair as it flares, his attention solely on you as you shower him with kisses and hugs.
The ‘game over’ screen is long forgotten as Idia basks in you and the love that consumes you both.
❥ Malleus Draconia
Malleus is overjoyed by your bouts of cuteness aggression. In fact, he anticipates it, wishing to have you shower him with the affection he oh so longs for. He cannot judge you though, as he feels the same, he is just unsure how to showcase his own affection. Ugh, but he is just a total cutie. You love when he pouts at his phone, asking you for help, or when he speaks passionately about gargoyles, or when he looks towards you to see how you react. All your adoration and love just want to explode like a volcano! Malleus just smiles and it makes you want to kiss him all over his pretty face.
“You’re so gorgeous,” You complain, squishing his cheeks beneath your palms. “Who let you be so pretty? It should be a crime.”
Malleus’ grin speaks wonders as he sits perfectly still, eating up your attention and affection. He says nothing, eyes squished as you paw at his cheeks like its playdough.
“You’re too dangerous to be left alive,” You declare, pausing your movements. Malleus tilts his head, curious about what you’re going to do next, and your cuteness aggression flares even more at the adorable gesture.
You don’t think as you lean in and lightly ‘bite’ (more like place your mouth around) his horn, the two of you stock still as the action clicks in your heads. Your stomach drops, you definitely went too far, and you pull back, apologies ready to fly off your tongue, but strong arms halt your movement. Your breath is still as you notice the bright red blush that coats the dragon fae’s cheeks and ears, his pupils widely dilated as he stares at you. Your heart skips a beat as he pulls you closer.
“You are quite brave, child of man,” His voice reverberates between you both, but his tone is filled with nothing but warmth and something a bit darker. “You are lucky that I enjoy all your strange forms of affection.”
With that, he leans in and bites your cheek (something you have done to him countless times), reciprocating your strange show of love.
❥ Minajael Tealrajah
Minajael cannot get enough of your seemingly random attacks of affection towards him, no one had dared to get close to him, let alone bite him (except for his adorable pet tiger). It invigorated him, made him feel strangely normal. You didn’t treat him like some porcelain prince like his father did, nor did you treat him like untouchable royalty like others, and biggest of all, you didn’t try to suck up to him because of his title. Your uncontrollable affection for him proved just that.
You had borrowed the magic carpet from Kalim, taking Minajael for a ride across Sage’s Island. It was beautiful, the moon a waning crescent above, the sky nearly clear, if not a few fluffy clouds dotting the horizon. Yet you couldn’t take your eyes off of the prince across from you. Your heart melted at the way his warm, brown eyes took in the scenery, his face shining with wondrous awe. The nail in the coffin was when his gaze finally landed on you, eyes brimming with love and joy and it makes you want to explode.
You gently hold his face, squishing his cheeks lightly before attacking his face in kisses. Minajael chuckles softly, practically melting in your embrace, his own heart beating erratically. Yet kisses aren’t enough to get rid of the vibrating energy that is buzzing beneath your skin. So you squish his cheeks together, pressing a final kiss to his smushed lips before tackling him (gently, you don’t want to fall off the carpet).
“You are so strange,” Minajael breaths out, enjoying the way you try to squeeze it out of him. “I love it.”
“You say that like you aren’t strange too,” You reply seamlessly, relaxing your hold as Minajael wraps his arms around you.
That familiar smug smirk tugs on his lips, nuzzling your nose with his own.
“You’re right,” He agrees, his sweet affection turning sharp as he bites the tip of your nose in retaliation. “We’re a perfect match.”
It was safe to say that you both match each other’s freak.
Do you think it's possible that Cheka could become jealous of Ruggie or Jack when he gets older? Leona has a soft spot for them but barely makes time for his own family if he can avoid it and is antagonistic towards them in almost every interaction. It's hard to imagine that wouldn't end up causing some issues down the line if Leona ever interacts with them after graduating from NRC.
I mean… anything’s technically possible (especially if we’re talking fanon) 😅 Not sure about the likelihood, though?? A 5 year old can change a LOT in a few years, and there’s no telling how Cheka will end up seeing as we currently know very little about him.
Right now Cheka doesn’t strike me as particularly jealous?? In fact, he seems curious about the classmates visiting Leona in the infirmary back in book 2. Little guy’s not miffed at all that Leona’s been ignoring his letters in favor of focusing on his school life or being with his peers. At most, we’ve seen him surprised (but not necessarily upset or jealous) when Leona pretends to be losing signal in Terror is Trending as an excuse to hang up on Cheka.
Of course, these feelings could change as Cheka grows. But there’s also nothing to say that Cheka would eventually grow out of his naïveté and idol-like worship of his uncle Leona either. Again, kids can change a lot. Cheka hasn’t even gone through puberty yet, and that’s really when a bulk of said changes would be happening.
I could see the teenage hormones leading Cheka to angsting for a period (a la adult!Simba when he hesitated on returning to the Pridelands), but there’s such a thing as protective factors too (aka things which would prevent Cheka from adopting a more negative worldview). For example, perhaps his father Falena would try to teach or explain to Cheka why their relationship with Leona is strained. Cheeriness or optimism may also be protective, as Cheka would be looking for the good in the situation rather than fixating on the bad. Ultimately, I think Cheka would hypothetically make peace with whatever hangups he may have with his uncle’s social life not involving him.
We should also consider the other side of this equation: Leona. I like the Savanaclaw group dynamic and all, but I don’t think it’s realistic for Leona to be the one reaching out to his juniors. He’s aloof and generally acts like he doesn’t care, so why would he go out of his way to actively converse with them and spend time with them post-graduation? Ruggie is at least more easily accessible, but why would a prince travel to another country entirely just to spend time with his high school underclassman?
Cheka also is not aware of what Leona’s school life is like, as far as we know. He doesn’t see or hear anything about the lengths Leona has gone to support his dorm and its members. And as I mentioned earlier, Leona does not express his care overtly; it would be difficult for a child or even teenager to pick up on his unique brand of “softness”. (Hell, a lot of adult Twst fans easily misread his actions and intentions.) I don’t know of Cheka’s limited understanding or knowledge of Leona’s life beyond the palace walls would build significant resentment, especially when it could easily be explained away by “he’s busy with his studies”.
going to briar valley with diafam for the summer but the servants are treating you like royalty because malleus wrote too many letters about you so everyone genuinely thinks you’re getting married within the year. And malleus is just as confused as you (he wrote like thirty letters to his grandmother mentioning you, he should not. be surprised.)
