Chapter Text
“La-la-la-la-laa-laaa!”
Paimon attempted to harmonise with Aether’s failed attempt at playing the flute
She had no idea why he was this insistent. All she knew was that it was Xiao’s birthday and Aether was busy preparing a gift for him.
She knew it was a bad idea right when he introduced the idea. The flute wasn’t easy to learn and for someone like Aether, even a simple song such as “Happy Birthday” would be taxing on the brawn-oriented boy.
Her ears rang hearing him blow into the flute for the millionth time.
“Aether… I think-”
Swish
Paimon was utterly shocked. The receiver of the song himself stood before her.
“Hm?” The man eyed her as if he had not just popped out of thin air.
Oh no! She had to tell Aether, she couldn’t risk ruining the surprise!
“Shhh”
Xiao looked at her with a tiny smile, fingers on his lips.
Wait a minute… Xiao?! With a smile?!
Xiao maintained his sight on Aether as he struggled on his flute. He stood up with his arms crossed, leaning on to his side.
Aether continued his session, splashing his feet in the water out of frustration.
He has to do this, for Xiao!
A grin threatened to break out on Xiao’s lips. He leaned back, enjoying the show.
Right now, he had all the time in the world to watch.
Even though Paimon was on the verge of passing out right now, Aether’s playing felt divine to him.
His voice, his actions, his effort,
They were all, music to Xiao's ears.