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Jotaro had been doing his best to quietly plan this, for a little while now. He wasn't great at displaying his emotions, but that didn't mean he didn't feel them - and lately, he felt like he wanted to surprise the most important person in his life, with something sweet.
It was hard to sneak the surprise around 「Star Platinum」, what with them sharing his mind, and such. But on days he needed to plan, or, like today when he was heading out to buy a few gifts - he'd gently asked his Stand for a short time of privacy. At first, 「Star Platinum」had been confused, and a little unhappy with the request.
Jotaro had invited him out to talk, sitting on his bed, being sure his expression was soft and open with 「Star Platinum」- knowing his Stand was usually the more vulnerable one emotionally. "Hey, sweetheart. First, you've done absolutely nothing wrong. Okay?" He murmured softly, gently reaching out and stroking his hand over 「Star Platinum's」much larger, lavender and gold-striped arm - trailing his fingers down to hold his hand.
「Star Platinum」pouted slightly, eyes still looking concerned, but couldn't help the shy, uncertain smile that crept across his expression when Jotaro took his hand and interlaced their fingers, pushing love, and reassurance, across their bond.
"You've done... s-so much for me." Jotaro stuttered a little when memories still flashed through his mind, there was still a lot of rough memories - but lately, they were creating many more pleasant ones together.
"And, I think you deserve something in return. I know, technically you weren't born, or, anything.. but.." Jotaro was struggling to get his thoughts out without totally ruining his plans - but 「Star Platinum」was quickly catching on to where he was going with this, and his expression went from a little sulky, to practically beaming. His Stand pulled him by the hand, into an affectionate embrace, Jotaro's breath leaving him in a surprised huff - then he chuckled softly as he wrapped his arms over 「Star Platinum's」shoulders in response.
「Star Platinum」hummed, smiling, having practically dragged Jotaro into his lap from where he'd been sitting across from him on the bed, holding his adorable Mast- no, Partner, now, close, curious and affectionate thoughts gently flowing through their connection.
'You... want to. Do something for me? And want it.. to be a surprise?'
「Star Platinum」was getting better with his vocabulary, faster and faster these days, and Jotaro couldn't help being proud of him every time he spoke - even if it was still only in their shared mind-space, it was huge progress every single time.
"That's right, Star. You're better than I am, at voicing my own thoughts." Jotaro chuckled softly again, leaning his head against his Stand's shoulder, smiling to himself as he felt their bond positively glow at his praise. "Like a birthday. You get to have your own special day, and I want to get you presents. But, they're not a surprise, if you watch what I'm doing, when I'm going out to get them." He began explaining gently, reaching up to card his fingers through 「Star Platinum's」physics-defying, inky black hair, scratching the top of his head gently on occasion.
「Star Platinum」hummed quietly to himself, listening, and leaning into the touch as Jotaro continued on, his voice still low and a little shy - regardless of the fact they were alone in his room. "I'm not asking you to go away - I did that way too much before, and I don't like the silence, either. I'm only asking, that you don't look at what I'm buying today, or my thoughts when I'm doing it. But I love you, and if you don't want to do it that way - well, it'll still be special, even if you know what I'm getting you."
Jotaro paused, 「Star Platinum」interrupting him before he could really begin rambling his thoughts - catching on that Jotaro still felt a little guilt over their past interactions, and a little anxious - not wanting to put 「Star Platinum」through anything similar again. Jotaro's thoughts stuttered to a halt, when 「Star Platinum」affectionately cupped his face in his hands, the soft leather warm against his Partner's skin, and gave him a light kiss.
Jotaro's mind buzzed with warmth and affection, a sense of relief fluttering in his chest, when 「Star Platinum」gently pushed his anxious thoughts aside to reassure him, 'It's okay! I won't look at... what you buy, today. But I'll still. Be with you. Like always. If Jotaro wants it to be a.. surprise, I'll help.'
「Star Platinum」was a little distracted, as well, by the kiss they shared, but he still managed to get the words through, Jotaro taking a shaky breath when he drew back for air. "Thank you, Star. I promise it'll be fun." Jotaro's eyes were warm and honest, as he caressed 「Star Platinum's」cheek with one hand, his touch tender and soft.
"And it won't take long, either. Promise." Jotaro added in softly, that small, shy smile blooming on his face when 「Star Platinum」turned his head to kiss the palm of his hand. It melted 「Star Platinum's」heart to see that rare expression, that seemed solely reserved for soft, quiet moments like these that they shared, and he pushed reassurance and love across their connection as he gently shimmered out of view once more, curling up within the heart and mind of Jotaro for now, knowing that sometimes this would still be necessary.
But, even still, Jotaro had grown much softer and gentler over time - and instead of being pushed down, shoved in the back forcefully - Jotaro asked 「Star Platinum」gently now when he needed a moment to himself. He gave him the opportunity to refuse and have the refusal, honored wholeheartedly, without reproach or anger. Now, it was a choice, and 「Star Platinum」didn't feel the past anxiety and hurt like before. No, he felt Jotaro reach gently through their connection, like a blanket of sunlight being draped over him, lovingly, assuring him that it was only for a short time, and he'd allow him to leave this space within his mind at will - reasonably speaking. Though now, there were very few moments Jotaro would insist he stay hidden away, seeming to prefer allowing 「Star Platinum」more freedom than ever.
「Star Platinum」felt the tender, affectionate brush against his consciousness, the gratitude and love silently expressed between them as Jotato slipped on his shoes, tucked his wallet in his coat pocket, and walked briskly out the front door - clearly eager to get on with his plans for 「Star Platinum」.
He felt no doubt, snuggled comfortably in the warm cradle of his Partner's soul - today was going to be special. He couldn't help the buzz of curiosity and excitement, as Jotaro's steps carried them into a couple of stores, carefully upholding his promise to not peek into his thoughts to see what he was buying for this moment.
Jotaro had each purchase carefully gift-wrapped at checkout, politely saying, "Thank you," to the store employees - feeling in much higher spirits today than average. And he could tell 「Star Platinum」was basking in it, even as he kept his 'gaze,' politely turned away, the feelings of joy, anticipation, and affection were still readily shared - given that they were far less revealing.
Soon, they were headed back home, a few bags of various things hung on Jotaro's arms, and though his face betrayed nothing outwardly, 「Star Platinum」could feel his smile in the warmth that bloomed and occupied his chest, like a loving, long hug, given only to him in moments like these.
The excitement grew as Jotaro unlocked the door and quietly strode back inside, locking it behind them as 「Star Platinum」reappeared eagerly, bright smiles and glowing blue eyes, hovering over Jotaro happily.
"Haha, okay okay, sweetheart. Let's just get upstairs." Jotaro practically hummed the words, patting 「Star Platinum」on his arm affectionately with his free hand, giving him a warm look that was an almost-smile, that fluttered in 「Star Platinum's」heart pleasurably.
There were so many expressions, secret smiles, and tender feelings that tip-toed across their connection and warmed him from the inside out, seeming to make 「Star Platinum」glow a little more every time - now that Jotaro practically broadcasted these feelings towards him as often as he felt them now. It was so vastly different than before - that it still left 「Star Platinum」feeling breathless and emotional, but in a much, much kinder way.
His Partner may be rough around the edges, scarred and often wary of others - but alone, with 「Star Platinum」- that hidden warmth never failed to bloom, and wrap them both in a soft, glowing cocoon of trust and safety. Jotaro took comfort in their bond now, and let himself bask in the love that had steadily grown since the first kiss they'd shared, as often as he could manage now. They were healing, together. Jotaro was less inclined to self-punish, he allowed 「Star Platinum」to chase away the hateful, or dark thoughts that sometimes clung to him on rough days, and in return, Jotaro allowed himself to share his warmth, positivity, the soft side of his heart that he'd protected out of fear was now all his, 「Star Platinum's」, "Star... I'm not your Master, anymore, okay? I'm... I'm your p-partner. I want you to have.. as much a say as I do. Okay? Equals. Not 'Master,' and 'Stand,' you're.. you're so much more than that."
「Star Platinum」had at first been anxious, but as Jotaro struggled on with his words at the time, holding his hands in his firmly, though gently - 「Star Platinum」had sworn he felt his soul sing and intertwine with his Partner's.
Jotaro was telling him, he was more! He was important! He was seen, and he was heard!
「Star Platinum」had practically thrown himself into the kiss on that day, bursting at the seams with euphoria, Jotaro chuckling breathlessly against his warm, soft lips as their bond took on a whole new meaning, and they drowned in the bliss those words had created.
「Star Platinum」was feeling many of those same, warm, buzzy, pleasant feelings swimming through the connection that wrapped around them both and had brought such happiness and trust into his existence. He'd thought, before, that serving Jotaro, fighting for him, protecting him, was his purpose and joy in his existence.
And it had been Jotaro, who had taught him more, to reach for happiness together, and work together to grab hold of it for each other. Jotaro, who had told him, 'it's okay to want more, to express your desires. You can HAVE more, if you want it. You deserve it, you're the best thing there is in my life right now. I want to be better, with you.'
Maybe not in so many words, but, the meaning had been the same. Jotaro was willingly, and happily, inviting 「Star Platinum」to have more, to share with him, to feel pleasure beyond fighting, to have softer touches that turned into sweet, tender caresses followed by whisper-soft expressions of love and praise.
If there was anything better, 「Star Platinum」couldn't possibly fathom in it, basking in the memories as he stuck close to Jotaro, going back into his room, and snuggling up to his side as he sat back on the bed, pulling out the wrapped gifts - and a bag of candies and chocolate! - to set carefully in front of 「Star Platinum」on the neatly-made bed, the blanket soft under the Stand's otherwordly, pastel-colored, skin.
"This is all yours, sweetheart. Just for you." Jotaro murmured, his voice soft though excited, leaning his head gently on 「Star Platinum's」now-bare shoulders - the metallic guards having vanished from existence instantly now as soon as the desire to lean into him crossed his mind.
「Star Platinum」took a moment to turn his head, and kiss his Partner on the forehead, certain he'd be delighted no matter what was in the beautifully wrapped little packages. Jotaro blushed and smiled shyly, looking down reflexively, but scooting a little closer instead of moving away an inch.
「Star Platinum」carefully lifted the first gift, being extra gentle to not damage anything - knowing his overwhelming strength could easily destroy whatever was hidden within if he handled it carelessly. He felt Jotaro's heart beat a little faster, his gentle and quiet excitement and affection, brushing up against 「Star Platinum's」consciousness like a purring cat. Clearly, Jotaro was almost as excited as he was, and very much wanted to see how 「Star Platinum」would react to each of the gifts.
「Star Platinum」gently peeled the lavender and gold-accented wrapping paper away, unable to stop himself from smiling brightly, eyes practically beaming in excitement. This was the first time, ever, anyone had gotten him a real, honest, just-for-him present, and it was from the most precious person in the universe, his Jotaro. He nearly choked up with emotion, when a small Polaroid camera, complete with instant printing paper, greeted him - Jotaro's thoughts now a gentle explanation running gently in the background as 「Star Platinum」turned it over in his hands, overwhelmed with a rush of joy so intense he swore he'd be knocked off his feet if he were actually standing upright.
"U-um... I know you probably can't take..p-pictures of yourself, but. I thought you'd still like to have your.. your own photos and keepsakes. I don't mind..if you take photos of me. I-if you want to." Jotaro murmured bashfully, almost rambling, hoping it would be something 「Star Platinum」would have fun with and get to use as much as he liked - regardless of what he took photos of. Any anxieties dissipated like mist in the rising sun, as 「Star Platinum」gently set the little camera aside, and pulled Jotaro into a warm, joyful embrace, rare tears of happiness spilling over his cheeks for a moment - Jotaro tightly wrapping his arms around his shoulders back.
'I love you. Thank you! You're the best! Ever!' The thoughts brimmed with adoration and gratitude, and Jotaro choked up a little at such a warm reaction, hiding his face in 「Star Platinum's」amazingly soft scarf while they both basked in the warmth of the moment. They held each other close, for a little while longer, before 「Star Platinum」pulled back gently, blue eyes watery, but soft and full of tenderness as he gazed down at Jotaro, who met his gaze gently and leaned up, pressing his lips softly against 「Star Platinum's」cheek, kissing away some of the tears that had spilled from such overwhelming joy.
This day was proving to be radiant - a day that they'd both cherish fondly in their shared memory, and 「Star Platinum」pressed a chaste, tender kiss to Jotaro's lips in gratitude, before gently picking up the second, similarly-wrapped gift, amazed at how much emotion just the first one had given them both.
This one revealed a little photo-book, just right to stash his photos safely in, in the near future, and colored pencils and pens. Maybe they couldn't take a photo together (「Star Platinum」wouldn't show up on normal film, after all) but the intent was clear, here. Jotaro had gifted him some of his own art supplies, knowing that 「Star Platinum」was more than capable of drawing a photo-realistic rendition of just about anything he saw. This way, they could have some pictures of themselves, together, to share and look back fondly over privately.
「Star Platinum」drew in a quiet, shaky breath, glancing over at Jotaro as if for confirmation, who nodded shyly - a faint blush dusting his cheeks, feeling a little too overwhelmed emotionally to speak out loud, but providing the same explanation with his thoughts like before. 'You're the best at drawing things you see, Star. And.. and I'd love to have a picture of.. of us. Together. I think, it'll be even more special to me, knowing you made it, too. And of course, you can draw anything else you want. These are all yours.'
「Star Platinum」couldn't resist this time, cupping his hands reverently around Jotaro's face once the gifts were carefully put aside - kissing him fervently in response. Jotaro practically melted into the kiss, surrendering to it and the overwhelming feelings of euphoria that crashed over them both in waves, causing tears to spill down both their faces. 「Star Platinum」swallowed the choked-off, breathless whimpers - a rare sound Jotaro usually fought making - but in this moment, he was totally surrendering and giving in happily, allowing himself and 「Star Platinum」this intimate moment of love.
Who knew gifts could stir up so many feelings? Jotaro had hoped to make his Partner happy, of course, but this was so much more, and so much better than he'd initially anticipated, gasping for air when 「Star Platinum」inevitably pulled back to let him breathe, resting their foreheads together gently, staring deep into his eyes with a reverent, endlessly grateful, look that squeezed his heart in a far more pleasant manner than he was used to.
"You're.. so i-important Star. You deserve all of this, and much m-more." Jotaro whispered, voice trembling slightly with emotion, before 「Star Platinum」cut him off with another, deep, heated kiss, his thoughts ground to a halt before they could become in any way self-deprecating.
'You have given me everything. Every moment I exist, with you... is a moment that. I cherish.' 「Star Platinum's」thoughts sounded murmured gently in his mind, but firm, and insistent. They allowed no room for argument, and Jotaro pressed close, hands clinging almost desperately to 「Star Platinum's」upper arms, grateful for the gentle strength with which he was gathered up, cradled in his lap, and held close like the most precious gift in existence.
「Star Platinum」drew back, gasping softly himself, and embracing Jotaro tightly - just enough to press them both close together, but not cause discomfort, both their minds swimming and glowing together in the pure, ecstatic, warmth they both felt, bathing in the cascade of emotions that left both teary-eyed, 「Star Platinum」grinning shakily and Jotaro smiling softly, whispering a, "thanks, sweetheart," grateful as ever to have any negative thoughts so expertly chased off before they could cut in on this day, that was supposed to be all about 「Star Platinum」being happy, and getting presents and appreciation he more than deserved - after everything.
「Star Platinum」gently maneuvered Jotaro in his lap, reaching for the third and final present, this one a bit bigger than the rest, with his free hand. He kept one arm wrapped around his Partner, keeping him close and supported, unwilling to have him even out of his lap right this moment. He balanced the gift over Jotaro's lap, and gently urged him to open it while he held it, wanting to share opening it together. Jotaro let out a breathless chuckle - he wouldn't deny 「Star Platinum」anything, right now, and he leaned his head against his shoulder again, smiling softly, using his free hand to pull away the wrapping paper, the other similarly wrapped around 「Star Platinum's」waist in a gentle, loving embrace.
Jotaro felt 「Star Platinum's」breath hitch in his chest, as a small sketch-book, and beautiful diary - bound in leather, painted lavender, with a black spine, and golden lock and key. This one had clearly been custom ordered, and 「Star Platinum」marveled over it in silent awe, briefly wondering how Jotaro had slipped this one past him in the time it would have taken to think of it, order it, then pick it up. He was at a loss for words, eyes round and hazy with fresh tears, as Jotaro rubbed a hand over his back gently and reassuringly.
'I know you might not feel.. the need... to keep anything private. But still, these are just for you. You can write, or draw anything. And you don't have to share anything in them unless you want to, and I won't peek without permission. And I'll be sure to bring them, everywhere we go, in my backpack - where you can easily grab them any time.' Jotaro's thoughts were gentle, loving, as they explained to 「Star Platinum」- who ran the tips of his fingers over the cover in amazement.
Jotaro was giving him something he was allowed privacy in - affirming his identity, his feelings, his thoughts - gifting him an outlet, with the promise of total safety should he desire it. 「Star Platinum」felt overwhelmed all over again at the silent, but blatantly clear statement being made here. Jotaro was giving him a means to be his own being, to have a degree of individuality, like Jotaro had naturally possessed since birth - but 「Star Platinum」had to learn over time.
Jotaro had never necessarily needed to give 「Star Platinum」any privacy or individuality, but here he was, gently handing him a few items with a promise - of trust and safety - no consequences, and a powerful gesture of a true desire for equality and safety for the both of them, together. Here, with something seemingly simple to any other human, was an open invitation for 「Star Platinum」to have his own thoughts, and feelings, beyond Jotaro's control and knowledge if he so chose, and the gravity of the gifts were massive to 「Star Platinum」.
「Star Platinum」placed them with the rest, hands shaking a little, and then clutched Jotaro tightly to him once again, fists tightening in the fabric of Jotaro's clothing as he buried his face in his shoulder and cried quietly, trembling - overwhelmed with so many familiar, and new, emotions. Jotaro hugged him back, murmuring gentle words of love and encouragement, arms over trembling shoulders and legs wrapped comfortingly around 「Star Platinum's」hips - a full-body embrace that radiated love and safety, and many silent promises for the future.
「Star Platinum」held tightly to Jotaro, his precious, wonderful, warm, amazing Partner - who somehow still surprised him with such thoughtful moments like these - that truly put on display how much their relationship and bond had grown, how much trust they had together, and how much freedom Jotaro wanted to give 「Star Platinum」to be his own being, trusting that this degree of trust, vulnerability, and freedom wouldn't somehow hurt him in the future.
In this moment, 「Star Platinum」knew, there was no one else currently alive that Jotaro felt so strongly for - and wanted to encourage to grow positively, even if it meant some things he wouldn't be directly involved in. After all, there were many things 「Star Platinum」couldn't have much direct involvement in - in certain aspects of daily life - but now, here were a few options to start having a little life of his own, and his own way to start expressing his own thoughts, feelings, and memories.
Jotaro was trusting that just because 「Star Platinum」would have ways to grow beyond their relationship, now, that it would be positive for them, and not drive them apart in some fashion. It was so much growth, and expressed such love and care without needing words, that 「Star Platinum」clung to Jotaro, holding him close in his lap, basking in this moment and hoping that it'd last forever.
「Star Platinum」couldn't imagine such a feeling of wholeness, elation, and connection to Jotaro before this - but now, he was certain that this day would be the best day in his existence, one he'd hold onto forever. It would be the first thing he'd draw, them in this embrace, surrounded by his first "birthday," gifts, the warm honey-colored glow of the setting sun filtering gently through the window and giving everything that much more beautiful, and intimately private, feeling.
Jotaro silently promised, that if something like this brought such warmth and happiness to their life together - they'd do it every single year. And he'd make sure to introduce 「Star Platinum」to all the other holidays they could enjoy together, too.
Every year, would be filled with as many pleasant, comforting memories that Jotaro could think of, now. His mind was brimming with ideas, imaginings, and an optimism and hope for future days like this, that he'd almost forgotten how to feel before 「Star Platinum」had suddenly appeared, at first chaotically, in his life.
"...I love you, Star. You're the best thing that's ever happened to me. And, I want to try to give you all the nice things I can."
Jotaro whispered, the shy, secret smile spreading across his face again, as 「Star Platinum」pulled back just enough to pepper his face in joyful kisses - pulling a laugh from Jotaro that made this day, definitely the best one 「Star Platinum」could have ever imagined.
Whatever they faced, they could trust that they'd always face it together. And that no matter how hard, or tiring things got - that they'd always be there to pick each other back up from the ground.