😳 from Nox of @crystals-and-claws
The kiss is a fast and soft, but unexpected. There is a taste of honey that blooms into the witch's mouth as he backs up - despite the fact he didn't kiss her on the lips. A fey's blessing for joy. "I don't think I can make up for everyone's hatred and fear, but the myths should remember the good you do as well." His face is red as a rose.
Belated New Years Smooch.
@crystals-and-claws
The witch knew he could be bold but she hadn't expected this from him. She had guessed him to be one that initiated speaking far more than he would action - given he seemed the, ah, shy sort. Skittish, wary, and with good reason.
The act itself was quick, yet the oddness in her mouth lingered. She had an inkling of what had just occurred without an explanation needed. Perhaps she would have inquired, had he not spoken. But the words that left his lips, left his reddened face, redirected her attention entirely.
He hadn't even made it back far before her hand reached out as quickly as the first day they met. Fingers hooked his shirt, drawing him into her proximity once more. Close enough for her other hand to cradle the side of his face, holding him hostage within her gentle embrace. Her lips curved into a smile but it was one that was neither warm nor cold - amusement shined within her eyes at his words.
Mortem leaned in, their noses just shy of brushing as she maintained her focus upon his gaze. "No, they shouldn't." She lowly murmured for only him to hear. Only him to know.
It wasn't that she didn't appreciate his thoughtfulness. In fact, it was because she could sense his intent that she didn't go for his throat for saying such to her. He wanted others to see beyond her villain tales, to see all the things they have forgotten or denied she did. That she has always done. It was... naive. Asking that much of people. But the intent tasted as sweet as the honey that lingered upon her tongue.
Being recognized for what one did was a kindness she knew she would not be afforded. Never should it be the goal of one's actions but a pleasant outcome if one was to notice. He noticed. That was more than what centuries upon centuries have allowed. And while it was a kindness he gifted her with that she had not known since her youth, it was a kindness she couldn't wholly accept.
Or perhaps, didn't know how to yet.
How someone perceived her was rarely wrong. When it was, it usually meant something bad was about to befall them. But even then, was there really a wrong answer for a witch like her - with a purpose like hers?
Ah, well... she couldn't say she much cared.
Ashen lips pressed a kiss to his cheek before she pulled away. Like the caress of a wind, she breezed past him as she released him from her hold. Honey may not linger upon his tongue, but there was no denying the way her energy reached out to his. The way good fortune now embraced him for the time being.
A thank-you for his thoughtfulness.
