Cheng Xiaoshi

Link click (au) rp blog \ Crossovers welcome /

[time-jumper]

“ I believe every person has a reason to keep fighting “

< Head canons >

- Au blog -

Tags :

# flash 📸 - Answered asks

# take a break 🎞️ - open rp

@star-seeking-stray ta-da / @star-tb

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

"... sorry, I should be happy-"

[time-jumper]

“You don’t need to be”

[blind-to-time]

"Hm..."

[time-jumper]

“It’s up to you”

[blind-to-time]

"... can we just stay like this for now?"

[time-jumper]

“Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"Thanks"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He cuddles!

[time-jumper]

He’s clinging

[blind-to-time]

So is he. Loser

[time-jumper]

They’re so stupid

[blind-to-time]

He's happy to cling tho

[time-jumper]

He’s relaxed

[blind-to-time]

He is too

[time-jumper]

He relaxes

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

"... sorry, I should be happy-"

[time-jumper]

“You don’t need to be”

[blind-to-time]

"Hm..."

[time-jumper]

“It’s up to you”

[blind-to-time]

"... can we just stay like this for now?"

[time-jumper]

“Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"Thanks"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He cuddles!

[time-jumper]

He’s clinging

[blind-to-time]

So is he. Loser

[time-jumper]

They’re so stupid

[blind-to-time]

He's happy to cling tho

[time-jumper]

He’s relaxed

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

"... sorry, I should be happy-"

[time-jumper]

“You don’t need to be”

[blind-to-time]

"Hm..."

[time-jumper]

“It’s up to you”

[blind-to-time]

"... can we just stay like this for now?"

[time-jumper]

“Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"Thanks"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He cuddles!

[time-jumper]

He’s clinging

[blind-to-time]

So is he. Loser

[time-jumper]

They’re so stupid

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

"... sorry, I should be happy-"

[time-jumper]

“You don’t need to be”

[blind-to-time]

"Hm..."

[time-jumper]

“It’s up to you”

[blind-to-time]

"... can we just stay like this for now?"

[time-jumper]

“Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"Thanks"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He cuddles!

[time-jumper]

He’s clinging

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

"... sorry, I should be happy-"

[time-jumper]

“You don’t need to be”

[blind-to-time]

"Hm..."

[time-jumper]

“It’s up to you”

[blind-to-time]

"... can we just stay like this for now?"

[time-jumper]

“Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"Thanks"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

"... sorry, I should be happy-"

[time-jumper]

“You don’t need to be”

[blind-to-time]

"Hm..."

[time-jumper]

“It’s up to you”

[blind-to-time]

"... can we just stay like this for now?"

[time-jumper]

“Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

"... sorry, I should be happy-"

[time-jumper]

“You don’t need to be”

[blind-to-time]

"Hm..."

[time-jumper]

“It’s up to you”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

"... sorry, I should be happy-"

[time-jumper]

“You don’t need to be”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

"It's not the same"

^feels terrible for not being entirely happy

[time-jumper]

“..I know”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

He shuffles closer based on his voice and tries to hug

"... it's not a permanent solution"

[time-jumper]

He hugs and rubs his back,

“It’s something”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

He's sitting exactly where he'd left him!

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... it's enough for now. Come back?"

[time-jumper]

“Okay,I’m coming”

He claps out!

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

"The past still affects the future"

[time-jumper]

“Guang, shush. What else do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

"No, it's... you shouldn't stay too long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s my own body, I don’t care what I change”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh... I'm glad?"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm.. anyhow else?”

[blind-to-time]

Cheng Xiaoshi arrives at the park in time for their meeting, he has flowers! Because he has no clue what to say

- @ I don’t know my @

He's... maybe five minutes late. He got dropped off at the edge of the opposite end of the park and just wandered around slightly lost until now

[time-jumper]

“Lu Guang?” He sounds hopeful and really really anxious

[blind-to-time]

He freezes, hesitating

"Cheng Xiaoshi"

[time-jumper]

He kicks.. forgets all his rational thoughts and hugs him

[blind-to-time]

He just stands there awkwardly, unsure on how to react

[time-jumper]

“I love you I am so so sorry, I didn’t mean to control you I was just worried and I’m sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I'm still upset with you"

^blurting out the first thing he can think of

[time-jumper]

“I understand”

[blind-to-time]

"You didn't trust me"

[time-jumper]

“I know I’m so sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I don't want to be upset with you"

[time-jumper]

“I can’t decide whether you are or not. You need to do that yourself. If you’re upset with me I get it, I was a dick and if you’re not then I’d love to go home with you?”

[blind-to-time]

"You were... kind of a dick, yes"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so sorry I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea I was just worried I swear I’ll never do that again”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't like how you were acting. I'm not... some glass figurine that will break if you look at me wrong"

^trying so hard not to cave

[time-jumper]

“I know, I promise I am so sorry. You’re perfectly capable on your own”

He’s just trying to apologize as much as he can even though he knows he should probably shut up for a bit

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, kind of upset with both of them now

"How do I know you'll actually quit acting like that?"

[time-jumper]

“Because hurting you is the last thing I want to do”

[blind-to-time]

"You already did"

He feels like such an asshole the second he's said it

[time-jumper]

For once he’s kind of glad he can’t see the face he made because he knows this isn’t about him,

“I know I’m sorry I swear I’ll make up for it and I’ll never do it again I don’t want to hurt you I didn’t want to hurt you”

[blind-to-time]

He sighs, so so tired

"... you're making it really hard to be upset at you"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry,”

He doesn’t know what to do about that so he just shuts up

[blind-to-time]

He drops his head forward, quiet for a moment

".... I missed you'

[time-jumper]

“I missed you too,”

He squeezes him so tight

[blind-to-time]

"I'm not forgiving you yet though"

[time-jumper]

“Okay, I get that”

[blind-to-time]

"Mh... but I'm coming home"

[time-jumper]

“I’m glad”

[blind-to-time]

"I can't stand staying in that house any longer. Even if Xia Fei is nice"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm, didn’t think you’d like being that close to Vein”

[blind-to-time]

"I hate it"

[time-jumper]

“Well let’s go home then?”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Okay cmon”

[blind-to-time]

He just nods, waiting for him to start walking

[time-jumper]

He starts, reaching for his hand but hesitating

[blind-to-time]

He follows him with a minimal delay, listening to his steps

[time-jumper]

He is still not sure

[blind-to-time]

He seems calm

[time-jumper]

He gently takes his hand, light enough he can pull away

[blind-to-time]

He hesitates, but does pull his hand back. He's trying to make a point

[time-jumper]

“Sorry, I missed touching you”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

He frowns slightly

"... I thought you were trying to lead me"

[time-jumper]

“I just wanted to hold your hand..”

[blind-to-time]

He holds out his hand silently

[time-jumper]

He smiles so much and takes his hand

[blind-to-time]

He says nothing, but he holds onto his hand slightly

[time-jumper]

“I promise I love you”

[blind-to-time]

"I love you too. But that isn't the issue"

[time-jumper]

“I know but I just needed you to know I do”

[blind-to-time]

"... I know you love me. I promise"

[time-jumper]

“Even if you never forgive me”

[blind-to-time]

"I will. Eventually"

[time-jumper]

“Take your time”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

Mhm…”

[blind-to-time]

"Let's go home?"

[time-jumper]

“Let’s..”

[blind-to-time]

He nods

[time-jumper]

He starts heading home

[blind-to-time]

He's walking next to him

[time-jumper]

“That stray we used to feed keeps coming by, it’s like she knew you weren’t there”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh?"

[time-jumper]

“I think she missed you”

[blind-to-time]

"... I didn't think to tell her that I'll be gone for a bit"

[time-jumper]

“Poor kitty”

[blind-to-time]

"Mhm..."

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

"... how has work been?"

[time-jumper]

“Just some developments, no dive requests”

[blind-to-time]

"... probably for the best. It's not like..."

He sighs

"I'm sorry. I know it brought in a good bit of money"

[time-jumper]

“It’s fine, maybe someday?

You’d still be in my head right? If we did?”

[blind-to-time]

He shrugs

"I don't know"

[time-jumper]

“I couldn’t do it without you, even if you can’t help I just think.. I’d fuck it up without you to remind me”

[blind-to-time]

"I wouldn't be able to guide you, probably"

[time-jumper]

“Would still be nice”

[blind-to-time]

"Maybe. I wonder if..."

He shakes his head

"Nevermind"

[time-jumper]

What is it? No dumb ideas”

[blind-to-time]

".... if I can see during a dive"

[time-jumper]

“..should we try?”

[blind-to-time]

"... what if I can't?"

[time-jumper]

“Then I clap out and make you tea, we can talk through it”

[blind-to-time]

"... okay"

[time-jumper]

“I promise.”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

“At home”

[blind-to-time]

"Yes"

[time-jumper]

“Mhm”

[blind-to-time]

He goes quiet

[time-jumper]

Eventually they make it home

[blind-to-time]

He has not said a word the rest of the walk

[time-jumper]

He’s rubbing his thumb against Lu Guang’s hand

[blind-to-time]

Loser nearly trips because flustered

[time-jumper]

“You okay?”

[blind-to-time]

"... missed this"

[time-jumper]

“Me too”

[blind-to-time]

"Are we home yet-?"

[time-jumper]

Oh yeah sorry,”

He lets go to unlock the door

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“I like your hand”

[blind-to-time]

"What?"

[time-jumper]

“Holding it”

[blind-to-time]

"Oh"

[time-jumper]

“Sorry”

[blind-to-time]

"... I like it too"

[time-jumper]

“Can we do it more

[blind-to-time]

"... can we cuddle instead?"

[time-jumper]

Yes please”

[blind-to-time]

"... before or after we try whether-"

[time-jumper]

“Oh we can try now if you’d like”

[blind-to-time]

"Okay"

^feeling mild terror because he doesn't know how to react in either option

[time-jumper]

“I’ll get a nice photo”

[blind-to-time]

He nods slightly

[time-jumper]

He pulls up a random nice photo,

“Okay I’m ready, you?”

[blind-to-time]

He just holds out his hand. Loser isn't trusting his voice

[time-jumper]

He does the countdown and claps!

[blind-to-time]

He's holding his breath

[time-jumper]

“Anything?”

[blind-to-time]

He's silent!

[time-jumper]

“Lu guang?! Talk to me?”

[blind-to-time]

There's the absolute tiniest sniffle coming across the mental connection

[time-jumper]

“Oh you’re here- are you okay? What’s wrong? Did it not-?” He can’t even bring himself to imagine..

[blind-to-time]

"It's... please"

He doesn't really sound upset, just overwhelmed

"Can you... look at the sky?"

[time-jumper]

He looks up,

“Can you..?”

[blind-to-time]

He's quiet for a pretty long moment

"... mhm"

[time-jumper]

“Holy shit- you can??”

[blind-to-time]

"I... yes? It feels... kind of weird"

[time-jumper]

“I’m so happy for you though- what do you wanna see?”

[blind-to-time]

"... you"

He sounds mildly embarrassed

[time-jumper]

“Oh- uh lemme find a mirror?”

He’s so flustered

[blind-to-time]

"... only if its not too weird-"

[time-jumper]

“No no I’m your boyfriend it’s fine-“

[blind-to-time]

"Still-"

[time-jumper]

He finds a mirror,

“It’s okay!”

[blind-to-time]

"Are you sure- oh"

[time-jumper]

He is smiling, so red,

“I’ll do anything you ask right now”

[blind-to-time]

"... you're beautiful"

^simp isn't listening

[time-jumper]

“Thank you.”

[blind-to-time]

"I missed seeing you"

[time-jumper]

“We can do this whenever you want to”

[blind-to-time]

"I don't want to take advantage"

[time-jumper]

“I don’t mind”

[blind-to-time]

He doesn't say anything

[time-jumper]

“Love?”

[blind-to-time]

"Sorry, I just... I haven't seen you in so long"

[time-jumper]

“It’s okay, flattering even”