Chapter Text
“Do you eat pancakes for breakfast? My daughter loves it, especially if it’s in Dodoco shape!” Alice muses enthusiastically. She was cheerful and energetic, it was hard to not see Klee’s resemblance from her. “It’s her absolute favorite that even the butter should be in Dodoco shaped too to match.”
Aether wonders how his night ended with Albedo and now he was having breakfast with his wife. Quietly, Aether searches for the nearest chapel to ask for forgiveness because this level of luck can only be a curse.
“Ah, but I was always away for work so I can mostly see her during summer, though I always do my best to give her the bestest experience she could have. Speaking of it, I was planning on making a theme park featuring all her favorites. Acquiring land is not hard but everything else will be a little hard, like building the rides for example, everyone’s utmost safety is priority so I only mean to hire the best for the job..” Aether thinks he’d dozed off and Alice lost him after casually dropping it was easy to acquire a land.
He couldn’t even try to look at how much it’s going to cost and he’ll faint.
“But I was told to lay it off this year as it needs more time and rushing it will result in lackluster performance. I can’t afford to give my precious little daughter a disappointing summer adventure so I’m still open to a few ideas. The most important requirement is that it should exceed the past summers Klee had, fresh setting and magical, much more grander. Oh and it needs to be done in a very spacious place, my Klee tends to be very excited that she can run all over the place so much. So, Aether, how do you spend your summer?”
Alice’s presence is overwhelming, she was far from the image Aether imagined after seeing her for the first time. Her explosive enthusiasm is definitely a surprise, but then somehow it’s not hard to imagine Albedo being with someone like her.
“Oh.. uhm, I'm usually at work. I have a couple of photoshoots.” Aether feels small. How does one tell that the most grand summer Aether had ever experienced is having a whole tub of ice cream to himself. Sticky, calories but he was happy.
Alice frowned and Aether braced himself until her face brightened and suddenly it was sunny again. Aether can’t still shake the feeling of getting intimidated even after her friendly personality, forgetting she just grabbed him by the arm and hauled him to the lobby and then announced she wanted to have breakfast with him. Aether has a suspicion that Alice knew him.
Albedo’s memory of kissing him returns and Aether just needs to take one look at Alice’s beaning expression at him. The guilt is suddenly ten times worse.
“Oh.. oh! I’ve seen your magazines and oh my, you were quite the temptress aren’t you?” Alice chirped happily. Happily. “And charmer too,”
Aether didn’t mean to flinch, but somehow it meant more than just a word right now. Was Alice trying to confront him through playful acts? Like, befriending him so Aether will let his guard down around her until she decides to strike, exposing him to everyone?
“My adorable little Klee always spoke of some big brother that gives her sweets and gifts. She wouldn’t stop talking about your gifts sometimes and I’m happy that she’s happy so I’m happy to listen as well.” Aether blinks but Alice is still smiling over her tea. “She also mentioned that you sometimes come over and eat with them, Albedo also spoke fondly of you. I’m sure you were wondering why I suddenly dragged you here but I couldn’t think of a better time because I want to thank you for keeping my lovelies company at home.”
The coffee suddenly turns acidic. Aether coughs, embarrassed about coffee dripping down his chin and staining his shirt and pants. Alice gasped and hurried to grab a handful of tissue but Aether couldn’t be bothered.
Albedo talked to Alice about him and suddenly it’s not the heart of the problem: Do.. Do Alice think Aether is being a great company and friend to her daughter and husband— Aether might as well drink his coffee through his nose because it would be less painful and embarrassing. God, god bless her heart.
“Oh dear, you’re going to smell coffee now. Your clothes are soaked as well!”
“I-It’s.. I’m fine, I can change..”
“I’m sorry, I didn't come out too strong didn’t I? I was told and I am aware I can be overwhelming especially when I’m very excited, when I saw you earlier I couldn’t help myself and kidnapped you.” Alice smiles, bright but apologetic. Aether thinks most of her charm is that she doesn’t have a filter. “Or was it something I said?”
Aether wiped his mouth and grimaced at the feeling of a damp shirt clinging on his chest. “No.. I’m alright, I just sipped too fast.. I guess..”
“Now your coffee’s gone, can we order another?”
“It’s fine, thank you though.”
“I see, then how about we try more desserts? I’m told there was a limited edition cake, something they only sell 16 slices every day so if you missed today and it’s sold out, you have no choice but to wait tomorrow. Ah, I've only heard about it during my trips and I’ve been wanting to try.”
Alice appears to be more delighted eliciting reactions from him and Aether didn’t quite know what to do about that. He also certainly didn’t expect to walk himself into an impromptu friendly date with Alice after the mess with Albedo last night. Aether felt sick thinking how clueless Alice was, she was so bright, kind and enthusiastic, Aether would hurt himself more if she ever dulled.
The cake tastes divine and nothing at the same time. How ironic must they look, like a sitcom or drama where the old lover of the man bonded with his new lover. What if Albedo comes down any moment? Aether’s heart wouldn’t handle the confrontation so well.
Albedo messaged him last night and Aether hesitates to open it and see.
“Between Klee and Albedo, Klee has more disciplined control on her sweet intake than Albedo but she also wasn’t the best when it comes to her favorite dishes. However, Albedo didn’t favor most of the dishes, either they are too heavy in the stomach or there was too much meat his small appetite can handle, but when it comes to sweets, he doesn’t hold back at all. Aren’t they just so adorable?”
Sure they are. Aether always needs to have a hand clutching at something whenever Albedo and Klee do something cute together.
Aether thought of deeply bowing and apologizing then running, but that’s terrible and he would appear more rude than he already was. Every time he opens his mouth to say something it just clamps up, shaking his head when she asks in concern and it fuels the turmoil in his stomach. Their table is already lively, Alice is comfortable and it’s almost perfect with the clear weather outside. Aether would hate to ruin it.
“Have you ever read the books Albedo illustrated? They were not to my taste but it’s still interesting. I've met his colleague, Xingqiu. Do you know him?”
So Xingqiu does know Albedo is married and he’s still trying to set Albedo up with someone? What if it wasn’t Aether that time? Aether didn’t like the thought.
“I only met him during a party,”
“Already acquainted? Albedo mentioned it to me as well.”
Aether smiles reluctantly at the prospect of Albedo talking about him so often it was enough to raise a suspicion. Maybe Alice had gotten curious and decided to see if there really was.. something.
“Are you comfortable, Aether?”
“Yes.. I’m quick to adjust.” he nodded dumbfoundedly. “Uh..”
“Oh nothing, I just want to make sure. Klee will like this cake.”
Alice sounded proud and fond talking about Albedo and Klee, even doing something so mundane. Alice pulled up her phone and started showing their pictures, it was cute and heart wrenching. Aether can’t help the pained smile and longing look at the domesticity shown, every swipe he waits with bated breath until they reach a picture of Alice and someone.. someone that isn’t Albedo and Alice was kissing the man’s cheek. Aether did not want to jump in conclusion but his heart raced rapidly.
“Ah, this one is when I have a trip to Inazuma. It’s lovely isn’t it? The background, the sakura trees are such a wonder of this world, the path to the shrine is almost covered with its pink petals. What a fond memory..” Alice sighs with a dream look and Aether watches. “I have to visit there again with Kleiner, he sometimes accompanies me on business trips so it’s less taxing. He’s such a sweetheart.”
Kleiner looks so much like Klee— as if he and Alice combined and Aether suddenly doesn’t know how to cope with it.
“Natlan seems to be a very nice visit this upcoming summer. They have a resort island. I've collected pictures and it was a stunning place to visit. Klee will surely love it and I’m sure Albedo will too. I’m inviting you to come with us, all you have to do is arrive on time and everything else is on me.” Alice winked. “Send me your schedule actually if you don’t mind, I want everyone to be as free and happy as possible.”
Alice sounds so much like a fairy godmother and Aether was a peasant instead of a long lost princess. Never mind that he never watched the movies. Suddenly Aether’s mind is bombarded with a high possibility of seeing Albedo in swim trunks, short.. shirtless and the blood goes into his nose and cheeks.
“I’m sorry.. I have,” Aether paused and when Alice leaned closer to him to listen, Aether knew he needed to continue before he cower. “I’m sorry but I don’t think I should come after.. Albedo kissed me last night and I figured— I figured I should keep my distance so.. I’m sorry.”
Aether winced and held back, closing his eyes when a utensil hit and clattered onto the table. Maybe he was waiting for something, perhaps a slap because Aether thought that would be very fitting or for Alice to start yelling at him, exasperated and scandalous after his confession then accuse him of seducing her husband. None of the worse outcomes happened, Aether sees his fist gripping on his pants and Alice was neither of those. What? Oh. Oh. Aether knows people have different ways of dealing with confrontation, Alice is definitely the type to slowly digest it before her mind caught up and Aether understands. It must've been quite the shock, Albedo seems to be the type to never cheat but then..
Alice gasped and Aether jolted on his seat when she grabbed his hands. Her apparent excitement is baffling and Aether is puzzled.
“Did he really!? He kissed you?” Alice squealed, delighted and with full cheerfulness in her tone. “That could only mean he confessed! He did, didn’t he? Oh gosh, I’m so excited. Albedo didn’t say anything last night and just went straight to his room. I know he must’ve been embarrassed.. but oh well, I’ll have a talk with him later—”
“Are.. are you not mad?” Aether cuts in when the excitement is drowning him. “Albedo kissed me last night,” he repeated again.
Alice nods her head, hearing him clearly and loud. “Yes, yes he did and I heard it very clearly but why would I be mad?”
Why? Aether sputtered. “Aren’t.. I mean, I guess you two already have a mutual decision but still.. Albedo’s still your husband and even then— it’s still wrong when he’s legally tied with someone. I’m deeply sorry. Last night was just.. sorry.”
Alice stares until her face lit up to a realization. Did she finally get it? Was he not being direct enough? Aether felt her grip tightened and he mentally prayed, but then Alice’s lips kept tugging upward like she’s trying not to laugh. Was he being mocked?
“Oh dear. I think I get why Albedo didn’t come out for dinner last night.” Alice said, smiling still. “You said he kissed you, didn’t he? Aether, did you reject him after that?”
“I sort of ran away and left him there.”
“I see. Do you like him then?”
Aether bit his tongue. Like is underestimating it, Aether knew he already went beyond seeing Albedo as a crush and person to admire from afar. But he still wouldn’t dare to say he’s in love.. it sounds heavy, much more deep and he was the type to dive in heart first, it’s easy to get hurt.
“I-I couldn’t.. I mean you’re—”
“I can tell you two are going to be quite the pair.” Alice said with a fond sigh. “I’m married, yes, obviously, I have the most adorable and bestest daughter named Klee and I also have the sweetest husband named Kleiner. I’m not so sure how you came up with it or should I rather be happy because it sounds like a compliment on my looks. My dear Albedo is a son of a very close friend of mine, she left him under my care. Even if he doesn’t say it often I’m his favorite aunt, guaranteed there’s only a few but I have taken care of him since.”
Fireworks exploded at the back of Aether’s mind and an enormous lightbulb smacked his head with a loud ding! It’s as if his entire world shifted, from gloomy and dying trees to pink petals swirling in the air while the sunrise seems within reach. At least until Aether blushed, feeling the embarrassment creeping in.
His forehead met the table with a thud and suddenly it’s a very particular habit he always does when it’s about Albedo.
Alice seems to quiet down and Aether sorts his mind while his heart pounded continuously louder next to his ears. God. Oh my god. What did I ever do to you— then abruptly, Aether gets up with wide and hopeful eyes, gaping at Alice who sits patiently.
“Does that.. wait.. is Albedo..” Aether curses.
“I guess we can always have another breakfast date. Love calls.” Alice winked and clasped her hand happily. “Albedo is probably too brokenhearted to leave the room, you’ll find him there and maybe kiss him good morning to make up for him?”
Definitely.
He ran as if racing with time and barely breathing outside the room. Aether hit his chest. Sweats run down his forehead and neck, he feels more damp than from a coffee spilled. His hand reached the door, knocking before he started thinking not to. Aether tries to think what he should say when Albedo opens the door and he doesn't come up with a single line, leaving him panting like a dying man when Albedo finally opens up— Aether leaps and Albedo tries to catch him with surprise as they stumble onto the floor, rolling and smelling like dust.
Aether would think his heart is now pounding directly out of his ear, no, it was Albedo’s instead. Loud, rapid and frantic, mirroring his own. Aether felt Albedo’s arms wrapped protectively at the back of his head and back, cushioning his fall using his own body. Albedo really is unfairly sweet.
Albedo opens his eyes with a groan. “Are you alright? That was..”
Aether pushes himself up, hovering above Albedo and framing his face. “I’m sorry I just couldn’t wait. I have something to tell you.”
Albedo stares and Aether can pinpoint the moment Albedo started to blush and he can’t help but be flustered as well. He really does like me, genuinely, romantically, is this real? Please be real. Albedo appears to be out of breath and Aether swallows, standing up and trying to not mourn the loss of Albedo’s touch, maybe he can have more later. If Albedo permits.
Now standing in front of Albedo again, Aether tenses more than last night, ignoring the fact that Albedo is wearing very homey clothes and he’s currently very adorable in it. Everytime he has a chance to look at Albedo’s lips, Aether has a full flashback of their kiss, a kiss that should’ve felt romantic and magical if it weren’t for his own stupidity— would Albedo laugh at him? Aether decided he’ll let Albedo have a good laugh at what he's about to confess, it was pretty funny only if it’s not him.
“Listen,” Aether tries, the words knotted at his head and tongue. Albedo waited patiently with a pained expression and still blushing cheeks. Aether needs to stop ogling. “I.. okay, last night..”
Albedo’s shoulders sag and his expression fell off which is definitely not what Aether was going for and he’s close to panicking. God and he was just very confident on the runway the other night, Venti would laugh at his ass if he saw him right now.
“It’s nothing bad—”
“Just as I thought. I’m sorry if I’ve pushed too far.” Albedo spoke over and Aether desperately tried to catch his eyes. “There was no excuse on my part and I’m not trying to make one. I respect you Aether and I’ll understand if you have already made a decision.”
What decision? Aether wonders. “I, I haven’t made any decision because this is going to sound dumb and I promise I won’t be mad if you laugh, I really like your laugh. Last night, when I ran after, after you kissed me.. I’m sorry—”
“I never meant my feelings to inconvenie—”
“No!” Aether rejects loudly and cringes at the sound of his voice. “Let me finish okay? I don’t want another misunderstanding. Last night I’m sorry when I just ran off without saying anything more and before you think that I don’t like you.. Albedo, I desperately like you. So much, from the moment I saw you across the street and before you gave me that pie. You can, you can ask my friends to know I have a massive crush on you.”
“Then why..”
There’s really no way out isn’t it? Aether wants to tear his hair. “I thought you were married.”
“That’s..”
“Dumb. Stupid, I know okay?” Aether started pacing in the room. “There was only you and Klee when you first moved in, it’s not until I started seeing you two together that I see some resemblance between. It doesn’t help that whenever I come over Klee doesn’t call you brother or something and why is that actually? I never mind if you’re a single father at all,” Aether heard Albedo gasp and he can’t fault him, it’s actually starting to sound more extreme. “You sometimes mentioned Klee’s mother but never so detailed and so.. so I start making assumptions that you two are separated and Klee is staying with you because you have full custody— God, it sounds unbelievable now that I said it out loud. I’ll understand if you don’t like me after this.”
Aether looked at the walls except Albedo until he heard a snort and it shouldn’t be an attractive noise but it does.
“It’s fine, you can laugh fully. I already said I won’t be mad and offended.” Aether assures himself more than Albedo. “.. I ran off last night because I thought you were planning to cheat on your wife with me and even though I like you so much it made me feel sick. I thought about Klee and I don’t want to put her through all that because she also trusts me.”
“You are a good person, Aether.”
Aether catches a small movement from the corner. Albedo’s hands are comfortably warm and they fit nicely on his. Aether didn’t protest when their fingers intertwined and Albedo tugged him a little closer until they were touching more. Aether almost pleads. Albedo looks delighted, in awe and happy, at least it’s what he sees. The irrational part of his brain still searches for uncertainty in Albedo’s eyes and others Aether didn’t know what to expect. He gets overwhelmed instead.
“Can we just kiss?” Aether asks and mentally flipped himself.
Albedo appears surprised for a quick second before a smug smile settles on his face and now he looks cool. And sexy. Definitely. “Depends. Are you going to run away from me again?”
“Of course not.. no.” Aether clarified.
“Ah good, not that I’d let you. Just asking.”
The noise that left Aether’s lips wasn’t a moan but it was close. Albedo kissed eagerly, fiercely, setting his mouth on him and Aether accepted it this time fully. Albedo pressed in closer, his fingers trailing on Aether’s back and leaving goosebumps anywhere he touches. It wasn’t their first kiss and Aether had multiple fantasies but this one is no less magical and butterfly inducing. Albedo kisses him like he was someone to cherish while his hold is also firm, not quivering and Aether feels safe. Not comforted but Aether can trust that Albedo won’t let him fall off in many senses.
The smile that adorns Albedo’s lips and he was just as smitten. Everything is still happening like a fever dream.
Aether pushes to his feet and kisses the side of Albedo’s lips, it earns him a fond laugh then he is scooped into another kiss, quicker but it’s sweet.
Albedo didn’t let go even while reaching for his phone. Aether was too happy to let go as well, grinning at Albedo’s stubborn arm around his waist. It feels quite possessive and claiming but it makes Aether’s heart beat a lot faster.
“I see. Aunt Alice wanted me to relay a message to you. She was demanding a copy of your schedule.”
Aether ignores Albedo’s teasing and reads Alice’s message. “.. tell her I’ll ask Lisa about it.. Lisa..” Aether murmured and then gasped, practically twisting in Albedo’s hold. “I have a meeting before lunch, what time is it? I forgot to check my phone!”
Lisa
I’ll have Venti prepare your suit early and have Bennett do your make up, just something light since this is a formal meeting
Aether?
Aether bit his nail and nearly dropped his phone when Albedo snakes around him and started nipping at his jaw. Oh my God. Aether fumbled a few words and hurried to click send, almost throwing his phone. Albedo looks under his lashes innocently and Aether is weak, he only has less than two hours for everything and Venti tends to be ridiculous about his fit.
“Albedo, this is me not running away but I do really have a—” Aether cuts off to bite his lips, Albedo goes down the side of his neck again. “— stop.. stop distracting. I have a meeting in less than two hours and Lisa would be furious if I, if I’m late. That feels..”
_____________
“A perfume that is made, crafted and designed for you is far different than the ones in store. The fragrance is going to be exclusive just for you. As a perfume designer, I’d like to try and find a suitable fragrance that fits you better.” Miss Emilie sings in kindness and polite but she was also formal and firm. Aether thinks it was a good balance. “I will personally send an email to keep in touch.”
Lisa radiates a pleased smile, in contrast to how scary she was earlier when Aether almost didn’t arrive on time. Aether can see his short life flashing in his eyes trying to race the last six minutes, he almost hopes the concealer is not melting on his neck.
“I’m looking forward to working with you.” Miss Emilie is almost quiet when she leaves.
Aether sat down with a weight. That just happened and currently he hasn’t arranged what to feel. God, he just signed a contract with Ambrosial Essence right after running from Albedo’s room. Aether felt he was at the end of it and the heavens are taking pity to let him experience everything. Is it possible?
Lisa flicks his forehead and Aether was more than startled, expecting nothing of that. He sighs. It’s as if he was caught.
“I won’t start telling you what to do outside work as long as you are responsible enough to keep things professional.” Lisa said instead. “I thought I would need to entertain Miss Emilie myself while you were running late and Venti won’t give me an update. Seriously..”
“I was just caught up with a— friend. Sorry,” Aether pinched his wrist sheepishly. It’s offensive to describe Albedo as a ‘friend’ but they haven’t talked about anything after.. more kisses and Aether doesn’t want to assume, he had enough assumption and the result was embarrassing. Aether remembered Alice. “Lisa, do we have major events in summer already?”
“We always do. Some brands are active in summer, we have less runways but more photoshoots and magazines. I have to keep updating your profile and now add Ambrosial Essence aside Chioriya Boutique, do you understand?”
His phone rings.
Albedo <3
Did you make it in time?
Aether was looking forward to going back to the hotel until he was dragged away from the entrance by the collar. Venti kept tugging him to the small veranda and sat him under the parasol that is not exactly keeping the sun. Bennett came with a full tray of drinks and snacks, sending an innocent smile his way, quite the opposite of Venti’s menacing smile. Aether smiled back.
“How did the meeting go?” Bennett sat closely to Aether’s right. “Here’s a napkin,”
“Thanks. I almost got there late but everything was fine. We’ll be working with Ambrosial Essence sooner.”
“Awesome. Do you think Lisa will give us a bonus? This is a pretty big deal after all.”
Aether wanted to laugh at the difference between Venti and Bennett, even though Bennett was the one to cover his neck with an ungrateful amount of concealer earlier, he was too focused to ask anything else. Venti caught on of course, Aether isn’t exactly trying to hide it.
“I hope there’s a big increase. What do you think, Venti?”
“Hm. I think you need to explain, Aether.” Venti came directly, tapping his neck with his fingers. “Preferably how did you get these? If I wasn’t too familiar with these I’d say you were mauled by any sucking insects. Who was it?”
“Albedo.”
“Okay.”
“The single father you’ve been crushing on— wait, are those hickies?”Bennett gasps a tad bit too late actually. “Didn’t we see him with his wife the other night? Aether are you having an affair?”
Aether cringes at how dumb he must sound while explaining to Albedo. “Do you really think I’d do that?”
“I don’t know..”
“I’m offended, Bennett! And to clear the misunderstanding— yes there has been a long and actually embarrassing misunderstanding on my side. Albedo isn’t and was never married, Alice is his aunt and Klee is her daughter. That technically makes Albedo her brother. I know because I was with Alice during breakfast.”
“I thought those hickies were from Albedo?” Bennett points.
“Bennett please don’t make another misunderstanding.” Aether pleads.
Aether kept glancing at his phone and noticed Venti’s silence even after he told them what happened. Bennett did laugh and thought it was pretty funny, Aether forgave him easily because it actually was, and Bennett was too innocent to roll his eyes.
“I bumped into Albedo earlier and he was pretty laid back while I was trying to confront him. He has those too, you know, on his neck and I was almost impressed.” Venti admitted. “I have my suspicions actually but I didn’t want to give you false hope in case I’m not right after all. It worked well didn’t it, you were an embarrassing mess but you still got a boyfriend.”
Aether sputtered. “We.. Albedo and I haven’t actually talked about labels yet—” he saw Venti frowns.
“His tongue has been inside your mouth and you two aren't dating? What the fuck was that, a friendly face eating?” Aether prays no one actually heard it. “You were almost late earlier and for what?”
Aether’s phone rings and another message pops from the screen. His heart races to read Albedo’s name.
Albedo <3
Go out with me tonight?
Oh my God. Aether mentally pray. He’s going on a date with Albedo.
Another message pops in.
Albedo <3
This is Aunt Alice’s number. She wanted me to give you
Just don’t text her too much or she’s going to distract you
Aether giggles.
Turns out a date wasn’t possible and Aether was almost sad until Albedo waited for him outside the restaurant and walked him back. No matter they were checked in the same hotel, they held hands throughout and Aether felt his romantic bones feed on the sweetness. Possibly the best night ever and Albedo kissed him again before pulling him inside his room.
“Did they explain it to you in detail? Good, and just in case then follow my instructions. Some of the poses aren’t as thought out in actual shoot. Ready?”
“I’ll follow.”
“Great. Where’s everybody else— come here!”
It wasn’t as bad.
Aether steps into the frame of pitch black backdrop and a pole to the side. The heels tap in rhythm to his walk, sharp and pointed then scarlet heels stand out against the void. Aether sat in the middle box with shirt halfway opened, exposing the sliver of his chest and the tie hanging around his neck, both ends hanging and reaching his lap as he leaned. Aether opens his legs and pushes the sleeves near his elbow and perches them atop his lap. The first pose aims for a more natural yet alluring look and somehow Lisa managed to win which pose.
The shutter breaks Aether’s thoughts and it was a continuous flashing right there and then. It was almost blinding per usual and Aether definitely physically felt warm under the ring lights.
Snap. “All right again! That’s good, Aether! Good! Your expressions are good.. keep it! That’s right!”
Somehow in the middle of it, Aether only anticipates the reaction of one person. When was the magazine releasing again? Aether wouldn’t be surprised if Albedo already had the date on his calendar, he really was a dedicated fiance.
The light beams and Aether’s shoulders sag in relief. “That was a wrap! Everyone, thank you for your cooperation!”
Aether stepped off the platform and Venti quickly assisted him in removing the suit, he shivered and Bennett handed him his clothes. The chatter fills the studio and the running footsteps towards the changing room, it was lively though Aether can see everyone is tired.
“Lisa sent a message earlier, she’ll pick us up and then we will go to dinner. Her treat!” Bennett made a happy noise and did a little dance.
“We should send Jean flowers to always put her in a good mood. Bennett can I get some wet wipes? The make up is getting a little warmer and I don’t want it to start melting on my face. Thanks.”
Aether yawns as they bow their way back to the dressing room to change.
“How long till the magazine releases?”
“In a month or less. Chiori wanted an exact date and she demanded everything to be polished. Ah, Lisa also called about the perfume ad, it was moved to next week.”
Aether’s phone rings and it didn’t take a heart beat to slide in the messages.
Albedo <3<3<3
Are you going to be late?
Aether
A little. The photoshoot is done and Lisa is treating us to a meal
I’ll be home soon dw :3
“It’s ridiculous you put three hearts next to Albedo’s name like some sort of promotion. Would it be five hearts after the wedding then?” Venti snorts.
Aether did not blush when he had a chance to kick Venti. “When is Lisa coming?”
“Her last message was thirty minutes ago. Should we wait outside?”
[Image • Image]
v-aether @lisa.m @barbaetos @bennett 🤤🍮
3 hours ago
[Image • Image • Image]
barbaetos foods taste the best when free~ #heavenpudding #marriedtopudding
3 hours ago
[Image • Image]
bennett :D👍
3 hours ago
Natlan has a perfect place for summer: Easybreeze Holiday Resort. They were given a commemorative photo to put into the album that was freely given at the start. Klee volunteered to hold it as she went around for pictures, even the smallest thing and specifically a pair of boats in the water.
“Isn’t it great? We’re going to stay in Huha Hill which is between the Wayvey Bay and Colorful Cliffs! We can also see bits of the market from our room at night, I was especially told it tends to get more cheerful and alive when the sun is down. Are you excited, Klee?” Alice turns to Klee, already jumping with shared excitement.
“Yes!”
“That’s what I want to hear— Oh look, let’s take a photo!”
Aether smiles when Albedo tugged him to the side, eyeing the two-seated shark-shaped boat and Albedo needs only to sigh.
“You can ride it, it doesn’t require a complicated skill, so long as you know how to start the engine and stop. Most of the guests chose to walk on the bridge to the market so there were few boats left.”
Aether sat obediently while Albedo figures out how to make it work and he looks very manly and cool while doing so. Aether was more than happy to ogle his fiance. Fortunately, Albedo managed to start the boat, a little bump of speed at the start but Aether waved to both Klee and Alice as they watched from the dock. Klee would be demanding to ride one as well so Aether doesn’t worry they’ll be left behind.
Albedo slows down and Aether sneaks a kiss to his cheek when he sits.
“Uncle Kleiner will be joining us though he’s not going to be here for a few more days.” Albedo said instead and Aether blushed faintly when Albedo placed an arm around his waist. “Maybe you’ll actually believe Aunt Alice is married once you see her husband.”
Aether pinched Albedo’s thigh and it only earned him a laugh. “Can we ride the boat to Huha Hill?”
“I’d think so,” Albedo pulls out the map given to them and Aether squeals when they can. “We’ll find a space to park it. I’m sure it’s allowed.” Albedo spoils him.
Alice and Klee followed closely and the Easybreeze Market matched their enthusiasm. Klee tugged them right off the bat at the Gift Egg stall. Aether chose the Light of the Blazing Sun while Albedo settled with the ocean-blue that was titled Let’s Shred, Sharky! Unsurprisingly, Alice chose the most questionable title of Blood of This Land while Klee picked the same as Aether, mainly for the red color as it matches her everything.
“You may keep coming back everyday until you have collected all the eggs! Goodluck!”
More balloons in the shape of animals and colorful parasols fill every corner. There were mascots walking, some were dancing on the mini platform with a small crowd gathering around them. Every establishment is painted with these bright colors, some are mixed in the middle and somehow still matches the aesthetic of the place. At what’s supposed to be the center of the market is a gigantic robotic-like statue, someone was standing below it and challenging every person to try, what exactly, Aether sees them throwing pain-filled balloons at the center.
Aether was fine tailing Klee and Alice to their random interest, it gets tiring easily especially since they share an endless pit of energy and Albedo dragged him alone. They bumped into a Dessert Vendor and bought a Fruity Smoothie.
“How was it?” Albedo asks.
“The yogurt isn’t sour,” Aether sips and offers the straw, Albedo gladly leans down. Aether watches like a hawk. “It tastes very.. fruity. You look really good.”
“Certainly not as good as you,”
“Charmer.” Aether blushed.
Neither of them had been in this part of Natlan but Aether was more than okay to navigate the resort blindly with Albedo. The map helps a little, to him at least, Albedo stirs him to places to either see or try things. Aether was having fun. Albedo went to a coffee shop quickly to buy something while Aether took a look at what seems to be a music store with instruments hanging on the wall behind. Street Fighting Fontainian.
At one point they came across a studio with a star-shaped entrance, it was filled with art supplies and empty canvas, the second floor has a small coffee spot and Aether immediately agreed upon seeing Albedo’s curious prodding.
“Aside from the basic shapes and lines, I don’t know more than that.” Aether held the brush with hesitation meanwhile Albedo sat confidently beside him, probably smiling at his posture. “This is my first time painting.”
Albedo tucked the stray hair escaping the band around his head and Aether thinks it was overly sweet. “I’ve seen one of your magazines, I thought you look very good with the easel.”
“I mean I was just posing so I pretended to paint. That was like years ago, how did you even find it?”
“Haven’t I said I love you enough?”
Aether huffs and turns to his own canvas, aware they were the only ones in the studio and no one is around. There wasn't exactly a PDA law in Natlan was there?
Albedo painted him and Aether wasn’t surprised though it still made him flustered at the detail and care Albedo put every time he made a portrait of him. Saying along the line of each stroke wasn’t thought out but was guided by memory instead, Aether concluded Albedo had been drawing him far longer. Aether painted Albedo, at least it’s what he was aiming for. Painting-Albedo is composed of clumsy strokes and specks of gold and blue, Aether was proud of it.
“We’re getting this framed. Let me find..” Albedo went back up before Aether could protest and ask about Albedo’s own painting.
He was such a.. sap and Aether loves him dearly.
Alice and Klee catch up and they regroup at the restaurant called Shoal’s Haven. The market started to light the lamps and surprisingly the colorful signs as well. There was more chatter and cheers outside, keeping the upbeat atmosphere even at night.
“Klee got to buy this awesome small sun from a sun seller!” Klee showcases a small version of what seems to be a sun, definitely of the Natlan’s designs. “They also sell this super big version but they said it was only for a parade. Can we watch it!?”
“Of course dear and I’ll promise to make you a bigger version of this.” Alice promised eagerly than she was.
“Ah, nothing hazardous and possibly flammable please, Aunt Alice.” Albedo is reminded and Aether watches in amusement.
They were pulled in another commemorative photo before leaving and it instantly went to the album. Aether asked for a copy mainly because he decided to kiss Albedo’s cheek instead for a surprise and the photo did not disappoint.
“Aether wanted to ride the boat to the Hill and I think we had enough to reach the dock.” Albedo says when they come back where the shark-shaped boat was temporarily dismissed. “It would be faster than walking as well and we are free to keep them unless maintenance is needed. It was in the manual and brochure.”
Aether sat, looking smitten and disgustingly over the moon while Albedo rode them to their place. Aether sneaks a photo, ah, he can’t wait to brag this to Venti while also sharing it to Lisa, Bennet and somehow Xingqiu. Aether chose to not upload the photo on his account yet. Aether thought he heard a shutter click before the boat finally reached the Hill.
Alice carried Klee to their own room when she started dozing off from energy spent. Their own room has an exquisite view of the water and neighboring island. There seems to be a giant shark-shape theme park from the distance while the Colorful Cliffs are hidden mostly by night. Aether was sure it’s going to be stunning tomorrow.
Aether enters the room and finds Albedo seated on the bed with a magazine in his hand.
“Where did you get that?”
Albedo looked up and Aether swallowed to see him wearing glasses. Much like the same he wore the first time Aether saw him. Thin round edges that do nothing but to make Albedo look more attractive. And sexy.
“I bought it earlier.” Albedo said, his voice had a tilt of something that made Aether shivered. “Of course I need to buy it. In fact, I bought multiple copies.”
Aether sees himself in full glory of the clothes he was told to wear during the photoshoot.
“Did they let you keep the heels?”
Aether turns. “What?”
Albedo stood from the bed, letting the magazine flutter on the sheet with his picture in display. Aether gulped and Albedo was in front of him, hands locked around his waist. Aether almost whimpers to see the look on Albedo’s eyes, hazy but still full of love and something else that makes Aether’s body hot.
Aether doesn’t wait fully and meets Albedo halfway into the kiss, melting in his hold until he is laid in bed, the paper sticking on his skin. Aether cherished and fully enjoyed the predatory glint from Albedo as he was hovering above and almost pinning him. Aether doesn’t mind, he would never mind.
“Do you still have the heels?” Albedo asks between kisses.
“Yes.. at, at home but.. ah.” Aether would’ve asked more if not for Albedo’s distracting kisses and eager hands roaming around.
“Mn. I just thought of something.”
“Albedo!”
[Image • Image • Image • Image]
v-aether best summer. 10/10 will do it again ⛱️😗 with my lovely fiance <3<3 #Natlan #EasybreezeHolidayResort #Summer
5 hours ago
[Photo: A picture of Aether sitting on the boat and looking at his hand, the camera captures the moment the ring on Aether’s ringer glints, striking a small golden speck. The colorful background blurs as the moonlight focuses on him.]
k-albedo beloved
6 hours ago