@ilcmilo [ IRIS & GLADIO ] "You're the most talented between the two of us."
“That’s not true.” Gladio frowns, the indent in his forehead creasing. He’s still slightly baby-faced at 19 (though certainly not baby-bodied), on a weekend break from college deeper into the capital. It doesn’t really matter. The city is huge, of course, but his noble birth and his love of Iris keeps him here. Who needs dorm life and a normal University experience when you have a family reputation and a baby sister to protect?
(Besides. He feels bad enough having taken a gap year away from everything just to discover himself outside the city. His Father understood---said his Mother was a hunter before she joined the Glaive---but Gladio still wished he had fought a little harder for him to stay. Even when his Father supports them---Gladio still feels like he’s letting him down, forever the disappointment. Even neutrality begets ideas of failing to measure up---or just plain failure.)
“You sew those adorable little plushies. And you bake. You’re the best baker in the world. And you are the best person I have ever met at organizing toys. You were so good at ballet. And tap dancing. Remember when we would play Teacher together? You were so good at that. Better than some of my current Professors, honestly. They do not meet Amicitia standards of training and education...” Realizing he’s getting off track, he returns to complimenting his sister.
“You’re so good at Animal Crossing. You’re friendly and everyone you’ve ever met loves you, and if they don’t, tell me, right now, and I’ll make them love you.” His tone briefly slips from goofy, overaffectionate brother, to threatening, but he eases back into a tired smile. “You make Dad smile more than anyone I’ve ever met. Which we both know is pretty much fucking impossible.”
“You’re perfect, Iris. Best little sister ever. Just because you're not as good at Ancient Latin or weapon maintenance doesn’t mean you’re not talented, intelligent, funny, charming, and cute as a goddamn button. You’re the best person in the world at being you. And you are...”
He holds out his hand for Iris to finish that statement, but finishes it for her. “My favorite person ever. Okay?”