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Thoma had always been a responsible man. He made sure he did his job correctly, drink plenty of water, made sure Lady Kamisato’s agenda isn’t overwhelming, pay his taxes on time, and was the best mediator he could be for the citizens of Inazuma. Granted, he never had the time to think about himself nor enjoy the little speckles of life. Too much to do, so little time.
He has a big heart and a lot of compassion to give.
Sometimes, Kamisato Ayaka wished he’d be a tad more selfish instead of being a people pleaser. He refused to take days off, opting to finish any errand he could manage for the day, from dawn to dusk. His occasional splurges would be visiting the Komore Teahouse, having a lovely brew of the finest tea while affectionately pampering Taroumaru. On rare chances, he’d visit the local stalls to purchase food, visit various spots where abandoned or skittish creatures of all sorts, somehow gain their trust and feed them. Look at Thoma, supporting his local economy while committing a community service for the unvoiced.
Responsible man, that he is.
Often, Lady Kamisato pensively wondered if Thoma had a social life other than creatures and being a goodwill arbitrator. She had expressed her concerns, but he’d brush her off, retorting he had other fundamentals to attend to. Granted, he’s still young.
Responsible and a workaholic.
She rather he’d experience the true wonderment of life instead of withering day by day from the mundane things. Even if he happily proclaimed he’s satisfied with his current lifestyle. That simply had to change.
But how?
It was the standard protocol of his morning. Wake up, tidy his bed, and prepare himself for errands. First, he needed to cook a glorious meal for the Kamisato Clan. It’ll be a simple array of rice, fresh fish he’d bought, tamagoyaki, pickled ginger, and seaweed salad, along with his famous miso soup. It’s the minor details that enthralled his heart.
He didn’t expect this baffling anomaly when he served Lady Kamisato her breakfast. Guests are expected, but not a foreigner with luscious orange hair, blue eyes clearer than the waters on Watatsumi Island, with a cheeky smile. Thankfully, Thoma didn’t falter. Years of strict obedience made him aware that any blunders were simply not acceptable.
He graciously bowed before placing the Lady’s tray. He needed to make another one for her guest.
“Good morning,” Thoma greeted.
“Good morning Thoma,” She replied, then pointed at the mysterious guest. “I apologize for not informing you of our guest, this is Tartaglia, he’s visiting Inazuma.”
“Please, call me Childe,” Green eyes meet ocean blues.
“Hello, Thoma!” A voice called out, breaking the responsible man’s concentration from his current task. He peered behind him, and almost fumbled once he realized who it was. Unexpected, really.
“Hello,” He wiped off the sweat from his forehead with his gloves. Pretty pointless to be honest. His gloves weren’t that absorbent. “How can I be a service to you, Sir?”
The intruder grinned, “What are you doing?”
Thoma thought it was obvious. He promised the head priestess, Yae Miko, that he would assist in clearing the Sakura blossoms from the roofs of the shrines. The tedious task with the overbearing sun, however, a promise was a promise, and he was the type to never break them.
“Simply cleaning,” He dumbly replied.
“I’ve told you, call me Childe,” Thoma raised an eyebrow. “Would you like some help?”
“I rather not have Lady Kamisato’s guest be subjected to menial labor.” Childe’s grin was almost prettier than his eyes. He’s counting his blessing that the blaring sun made him seem flusher, almost disguising his creeping blush. His wide eyes were nearly comical as he witnessed the Kamisato’s guest effectively climbing up the same roof as him, sporting that same cheeky grin.
“Two sets of hands are better than one,” He offered, carefully plucking the frayed petals. It was a distracting vision because no man should look that pretty with the Sacred Sakura tree behind him. This image could be seared in his memory for a long time.
“Thoma,” Childe called out, breaking him out of his trance.
“Yes?”
“Can I keep some of these petals?”
“What for?” Curiosity got the better of him.
“I’d like to send some to my siblings,” He wistfully spoke. “I frequently exchange mails with them, updating them about my travels and sending little presents.”
Thoma never thought Childe would be a doting brother.
“I’m afraid not,” Thoma scooched closer to him. Perplexity marred his pretty face. “We should dry them before enclosing them in an envelope.”
He almost fidgeted when he felt his heart erratically beat in his thoracic cavity as Childe beamed. Instantaneously agreeing to this befitting suggestion.
Lady Kamisato was never concrete on how long Childe’s visitation was. He didn’t know if the man was visiting for work, vacationing, wandering, or on an adventure quest. It’s been a few weeks so far and the male visitor was a pleasant abnormality. Some days the man would follow him on his errands, other times he’d wander around Inzauma or simply opt to fish for leisure.
Thoma halted when he heard footsteps trailing behind him on the cobblestones, “Childe?”
He got accustomed to calling him his preferred name.
“Where are you off to?” He asked, standing closer to him. He never noticed how Childe was a few centimeters taller than him.
“I was going to stop by Chinju Forest,” He replied.
“Is that area dangerous?” A small, befuddling frown was placed on his face.
“There are some hilichurls, but it’s easy to bypass them,” Thoma started. “I wanted to make some offerings to the Bake-danukis and feed some straying critters.”
“Never knew you’d be tenderhearted,” Childe proceeded to grab a bag filled with his procurements. “Allow me to be of assistance.”
“They’re innocent beings,” Thoma murmured, then continued his way towards his intended destination. “If you do good in your life, good things will happen.”
“Is that so?”
Thoma missed the slight twinkle in the crisp, blue eyes gazing at his retreating figure.
“You are relentless,” Childe collapsed on the dirt floor, panting heavily, slick sweat clung to his temple and neck.
“I need to keep you on your toes,” Thoma wasn’t faring any better. He slouched, resting his palms on his knees as he tried to catch his breath. It’s been a while since he had a proper training partner, a good one at that.
“I think you need to stretch more. You need more flexibility, that way your landing won’t be off-balanced,” Childe offered. It was good advice. He simply forgets to optimize the basics. “I’d hate for you to be exposed to unwarranted attacks.”
He nodded before fixating his stare on Childe’s weapon, “Why are you partial to the bow?”
That type of weapon didn’t suit him at all. He’d assume the man would rather utilize a sword or possibly a polearm like himself.
“It’s fun,” The man simply smiled. “It was the weapon that I’m the weakest with, no question. Being doubted by others is hilarious. However, seeing their humiliated faces once they’ve realized I’ve defeated them with my weakest trait makes victories invigorating.”
Thoma shook his head due to this pettiness. Yet, he couldn’t help but slightly admire the straightforwardness. He couldn’t fault him. There are no second chances on the battlefield. It’s all or nothing and sometimes, improvisation was needed for the outcome.
Comforting silence had overtaken the atmosphere.
“Thoma,” Childe was standing again. His breathing wasn’t ragged anymore, and the ends of his lips lightly curled upwards, mischievously.
“Hm?” Why was he holding his bow out to him?
“Let me teach you how to properly yield a bow.” This wasn’t a request but rather a demand carried by the lightness of his tone. Perhaps garnering some experience could expand his artillery disposition.
“Okay.” He would never admit out loud how nervous he felt with Childe pressed up against his back, fixing his posture, and properly showing him how to grip the arrow. He’s positive he blushed a little hard. He’ll never forget how his hand lightly grazed against his cheek when raised the bow into its proper position.
The arrows never hit the bullseye. The feathered ends would occasionally be embedded in the skins of his thumbs once he released the arrow. And sure, his hand was cramping just a little because he wasn’t accustomed to this.
However, he decided he didn’t mind Childe being this close.
Thoma decided to travel to Seirai Island to feed the wandering cats and clean the shrine. He wasn’t entirely fixated on dealing with humans and their inane complaints. This was his best option for a little escapism. It didn’t help that he had been feeling a bit wary lately. Maybe he should pay some heed to Lady Kamisato’s advice and attempt to be a little selfish and travel. Or rest. That would be nice…
A tidbit of guilt pooled in his stomach. He couldn’t do that. He had too many obligations. If no one else would tend to them, who would? He sighed.
“What’s with the long face?” When did he come here? Exactly how did he find him? “Miss Ayaka told me.”
Thoma scrunched his nose. He wasn’t amused with the casual addressing of the Lady’s name, but she paid no mind to it. She was enraptured with the causality, and who was he to deny her that minuscule of happiness?
“I see,” He carefully placed a bowl of kibbles on a rock, giving the wandering cats permission to feast. They meowed so lovingly as they rubbed up against his feet. His heart softened.
“Adorable,” Thoma wistfully grinned. Innocent animals are simply divine.
“Ah, no more scowl,” Childe teased as he stood next to him, lightly poking his cheek. Hastily, Thoma waved the offending finger away, but the grin never left.
“How are you feeling?” Childe crouched down to pet a tabby rubbing against his legs.
“Overwhelmed.” Thoma hadn’t expected to admit his feelings so effortlessly around the man. It’s an oddity.
“You look like it,” Cheeky jerk.
Thoma simply shrugged, turning to stare at the rundown shrine that needed fixing. He meant to restore it to its former glory, although other responsibilities had kept him. For now, he’ll settle on picking up any lingering debris around the island, even with the pretty man following him.
“You’re not from Inazuma, are you?” An unexpected question slowed his ministration.
“Not wrong. My mother is a Mondstadt native while my father hailed from Inazuma. They met at the adventurer guild near the market district. Needless to say, I am very familiar with the city.” Thoma would be lying if he didn’t miss home. It’s been a long time since he last visited.
“No wonder you’re so likable,” Childe chuckled. He came close, invading Thoma’s proximity, making him almost hitch his breath.
“There’s no crime on being sociable,” Thoma huffed proudly. He was immensely honored by his heritage. He encompassed the best of both qualities: loyalty and sociability.
“You’re correct,” Childe gingerly raised his hand to pluck an offending leaf from Thoma’s hair. His hand lingered though. “You should show me around.”
Confusion racked his brain, “You’re already familiar with Inazuma. I don’t need to be your tour guide anymore.”
“No, I meant Mondstadt.” He tried to be graceful, yet he was caught off guard and just about stumbled. Amused eyes locked against wavering ones.
“Might be a while,” He tried to be haughty.
Childe flicked his nose, “Good thing I’m patient.”
“I think you should consider your options and explore,” A sweet voice softly spoke. It’s a rare occasion for Lady Kamisato to entertain him. They were sharing their afternoon with steaming tea and dango.
“You’re eager to get rid of me,” He teased.
“Never!” He laughed at her flustered attitude.
“I’m serious,” She stated, sipping her cup. “You’re a reliable man but allow yourself some wiggle room of freedom.”
“Inazuma needs me.”
“Inazuma will still be here when you return,” She retorted. Lady Kamisato has been sassier than he remembered. “We’re in an era of peace.”
He contemplated.
She was right.
Surely, it’s time to put himself first.
The festivities on Amakane Island were lively as always. Various decorations were hung accordingly. A plethora of vendors was constantly bustling with its residents along with tourists who came for the celebrations. For once, there was nothing worrisome, allowing Thoma to leisurely enjoy the joyous event.
He spotted a familiar figure near the mask stall as he walked up the incline cobblestone trail.
“The kitsune mask suits you,” Thoma suggested, rendering the pretty male out of his stupor.
“How so?” Thoma grinned, taking some mora out of his pouch to pay for the mask.
“They’re sneaky,” He mockingly taunted. In reality, they’re majestic creatures, that’s what he associated Childe as; majestic, beautiful, and powerful. He came to an understanding that being around Childe was comfortable. He relished the man’s presence. He hoped the feeling was mutual, then possibly, something more could develop.
“You’re insulting me,” Childe playfully retorted. Thoma grabbed the kitsune mask and carefully covered the pretty face. It felt that the man almost preened under his cautious touch. His hair was soft, almost comparable to Taroumaru. “You need one as well.”
Thoma stayed silent, carefully watching him pluck a Mempo mask from the rack, then pay the vendor with mora from his pouch. He nearly shivered from the brief contact as Childe put his mask on for him. Inwardly, Thoma vowed if there was a time this pretty man needed his protection, he’ll gladly provide it.
“Satisfied?” A muted nod was given. “Let’s visit the Prayers Plaques stall and get some food, I’m famished.”
“Prayer Plaques?”
“It’s a tradition we do here, draw or write on a wooden plate and pray for our wish to come true.”
“Liyue has a comparable tradition, except, with lanterns.”
“I have never been to Liyue,”
“I’ll take you there one day and show you around.” He wondered if that could happen. Funnily, Thoma decided to write down his wish, discreetly placing it back on the rack before anyone could take notice. It’s a personal thing.
After scouring for food and filling up their bellies, he wasn’t expecting the orange-haired man to whisk him away to the outskirts. Almost naughtily, the man procured some explosives, no doubt, from Naganohara Fireworks. Both males opted to shift their masks to the side of their heads.
“I didn’t steal these,” Childe stated, noticing the suspicious glance that was being given. “Let’s light them up!”
He warmly smiled as Childe gleefully propped his pyrotechnics on a flat surface. His playful demeanor is somewhat infectious. He carefully strolled over to assist by offering bits of ember to set them off.
A dazzling display of multicolored specks was a beauty he couldn’t deny. Suddenly, their private show ended but a new, larger, brighter arrays shone against the vast sea. The true showstopper and boy, Yoimiya did not disappoint.
Lost in his trance in favor of watching the scene unfold, he vaguely felt a warm, clammy hand grip his. He returned the favor by properly interlocking their hands. It’s romantic and he couldn’t end his night on a better note.
“Take some time off, you workaholic. Let’s go to Liyue, Mondstadt, Sumeru, just anywhere, let’s go.” Thoma felt a little faint. He felt giddy. He felt relaxed.
“Yes,” He confidently whispered.
“There, there,” Orange haired male soothingly rubbed the back of his companion, who’s currently heaving over the boat, regurgitating the remnants of all his consumptions out of his stomach. He was never keen on sailing, and this was massive reasoning. Sea sickness was not a joke.
Once he felt better, he collapsed on the floor, garnering pitiful looks from the other occupants. He felt envious of how relaxed everyone was, yet there’s him, barely keeping his lunch down.
“Drink some water,” Childe forced a canteen in his arms. He gratefully accepted and sipped the water slowly. He would not like to die from dehydration.
“Thank you,” He croaked. He felt weak. Childe hummed, grabbing the blond’s head, and letting him rest on his shoulder. Contentment was felt.
“Your breath stinks,” Thoma didn’t have the energy to smack the disrespect away.
“Duck!” Thoma bellowed, watching Childe effectively dodge a flaming arrow. For some inane reasoning, they decided to make a simple request of clearing some hilichurls around Mt. Tianheng, so residents or tourists can watch the lanterns floating in the night, peacefully. He’d admit the scenery would be gorgeous. However, the rocky terrain made his feet ache.
With a whish of his spear, one enemy went down. He jumped away as another one appeared, running rapidly as it hastily waved its bludgeoning weapon. Rapid shots of arrows intervene, effectively knocking down the opponent. They were almost finished with this simple conquest. It had taken a little more time since there was an abundance of the tribe, with more aggression than a rabid dog.
“How are you?” Thoma called out, expecting an answer from his companion. No reply, instead of a taunting laugh. He couldn’t muster his involuntary action of rolling his eyes in annoyance.
Sure enough, he shifted to his right. It’s a dumb, mocking abyss mage. Not necessarily difficult to battle against, but more of a nuisance. Surprise, surprise, it’s a hydro one, carefreely bouncing around as it had encapsulated Childe in a flurry of bubbles. He’s optimistic the man’s ego is slightly bruised.
But hey, even experienced adventurers aren’t immune to simple casualties.
Thoma swiftly closed the distance between him and the opponent. He rapidly thrusts a few hits here and there. The mage taunted as it proceeded to dodge. Stupid barrier…
He immediately performed his special move; crimson ooyoroi. The mage was freed from his barrier instantaneously, looking rather weakened, but Thoma had a job to do, and he’ll finish it.
“Thank you,” Childe tightly smiled. He was still sitting on the grass and hadn’t moved an inch. The tightening of his jawline was a clear indication of his displeasure.
“Don’t fret about it,” Thoma stated, offering his hand to him. Childe gave a resigned look but took the extended offer and allowed himself to be pulled up. It was near nightfall; they should be heading back to their inn soon since it’s unwise to be out where uncertainties are relentless.
Wordlessly, Childe pulled him to the peak of the mountain. Like a moth drawn to a lone flame, he followed because he’s soft for him. Liyue is beautiful, he mused.
“Look,” So, he did. A lone flower was perched on the peak. He recognized them from countless botany literature he’d read from the Kamisato’s private library. Pale blue flora, brilliantly blooming under the moonlight sky with a yellow stigma. He’d seen plenty of these around Qingce Village and the harbor. Why was this one any different?
“The ones near the populated are domesticated, not pureblood compared to the olden days. Wild ones used to be populous, but as time elapsed, they dwindled.” Childe heartfully explained. “Legend stated these plants understand the human heart. An old friend of mine was respectfully partial to them as they hold a special bond of memories. They’re nearly extinct, the pure ones at least.”
“Legend also stated that if you serenade them with sweet songs, they’ll fully bloom,” Thoma added, sharing his textbook knowledge of wisdom. “Shall we?”
He’ll never forget the surprised look on his face. Even if the actual lore of the flora and the God of Dust ended bitterly. The sacrifices of lives never knew the revolution they’ve to hold in today’s time. Scattered written records, oral history, and traded folklores were the only elements translating the struggles, promises, and resolutions for future generations. Thoma wondered how much burden Morax carried in his soul; as he recounted a listless timeline of events, the somberness of reintroducing these beloved lilies into the plains, and how much good memories outweighed the bad.
Green eyes locked against the blue ones. A sweet serenade sang along the night breeze. If possible, the glaze lily glistened greater than the brightest star. Despite not being fluent in Liyue’s history, memories were treasured.
He’ll treasure this memory for a lifetime.
Lantern Rite festival is spectacular. Thoma tried to stay true to Inazuma’s biasedness, but this doesn’t compare. So many fun games. So many stalls filled with delicious street snacks. Grilled tiger fish was one of his top choices, especially sharing it with his indispensable companion.
Predictably, Childe strayed him away from the bustling harbor. He couldn’t fault him. It was ludicrously crowded, people piled upon each other, making it harder to find breathing room. His heart thrashed rapidly as his wrist was pulled along. His feet automatically followed up the cliff of Mt. Tianheng, they stood on the highest peak again.
“I had some lanterns made for us,” Childe was enthused. That bright smile was a sin. “Let’s write our wishes.”
He shoved a brush and ink plate in his clutches.
I wish to continue making memories.
They both released their lanterns simultaneously. Then, a whirlwind of soft, glowed spectacles made its way through the atmosphere. The gentle breeze guided them higher in the air, almost like fireflies. Fireworks are beautiful. Lanterns in the night sky are a different entity. It’s ethereal.
Feeling weak in his knees, overwhelmed by the beautiful display, and amazed he got to participate in a wondrous celebration. He planted his rear on the plush grass, eyes never wavering from the scene. It felt like endless souls were trying to find their path towards a belonging. He felt a shift behind him.
He didn’t expect Childe to sit behind him, spreading his legs wide apart, pulling the blond closer to his chest as he rested his chin upon the blond locks. He blushed when he realized Childe had wrapped his arms around his torso. He was not accustomed to any human affection. He’ll vaguely ponder if the increased heartbeats stemmed from him or the man behind him.
For now, he felt he belonged in the man’s arm.
Thoma wasn’t a drinker. The fermented taste was bitter. Alcohol leaves a disgusting aftertaste in his mouth, and he didn’t particularly like the warming effect it had. The smell wasn’t attractive either. His partner, on the other hand, thrived on alcohol.
Currently, Childe is on his fourth glass of Dandelion wine. He’s almost nearing inebriation. They made it to Mondstadt before their festivities had started. Thoma is enthusiastic to be back home.
“Dandelion wine is the best here!” Childe was feeling boisterous. Let’s hope he doesn’t become intolerable. Carrying a drunkard through the streets as a tourist is humiliating. He considered leaving his companion to fend for himself in the tavern, but that’s rude and Thoma is too responsible.
“Neh, Thoma,” He hummed, sipping his apple juice. “I think you’re adorable.”
The juice almost went down the wrong pipe.
“How did this happen?” His arm was crossed, his brows furrowed in displeasure with a huge scowl tarnishing his face. The other male dared to look impertinent.
“Who knew taking down a hoard to ruin guards and hunters was troublesome.” Stupid, idiot, dummy. Childe wasn’t seriously injured but he garnered some concerning implications. His lip was split, had a black eye forming on his right, and a few impressive cuts on his cheeks along with various parts of his body he wasn’t aware of. His left wrist was bandaged and held in a makeshift splint. It’s not broken but sprained.
Thoma mentally noted he needed to get a bouquet of Lamp Grass for Barbara.
“What were you doing out there by yourself?” Without me. He’ll never voice that.
“I had commitments to attend.” Childe was carefree. He was kind. He was loyal. He was faithful. However, he’s devious and not entirely honest. Thoma never pushed it because he trusts the man. He hasn’t done overly suspicious things, so no point in questioning them.
“Don’t scare me,” He sighed. He felt the man unfurl his right hand from being a fist. Softly, he cradled his unblemished hand with his dried, bloodied right. Intimately, he raised both their hands and gave a virtuous kiss on Thoma’s.
He almost short-circuited quicker than an arrow proficiently aimed at a ruin hunter’s weak point.
Windblume festival was energetic. His voice was hoarse from singing carnival songs with the locals. He made his lyre which was pretty shoddy. Regardless, he’s having fun, despite Childe drinking more dandelion wine. It didn’t help that the sociable inhabitants encouraged that behavior.
It’s a jubilant occasion. Why bother being a party pooper?
His mood eased, witnessing Childe sporting a flower crown that Thoma specifically created out of Cecilias and Lamp Grasses. Childe made one for him out of Windwheel Asters. He felt Childe was devilishly handsome while he looked like a jueyun chili.
“Thoma,” Childe happily called out. His smile was wide, and the ends of his eyes crinkled in amusement.
“Yes?” He inquired.
“Time for you to participate in the Bullseye Balloons!” He happily exclaimed. Thoma groaned. Childe was the bow wielder, but the idiot had to get himself injured, so he must restrain himself.
“I’m not fully comfortable with a bow and arrow,” He tried to explain but the latter refused to accept.
“Nonsense,” Childe emptied his cup. “You’ve learned from the best. I’ve deemed you worthy.”
Thoma’s heart fluttered at the nonchalant attitude. Sure, he received several praises from others since he’s generally a people pleaser. This was almost no different, except, it’s Childe and perhaps, he flourished under the male’s selfless attention on him. He’s allowed some greediness, right?
He nodded his head, silently agreeing to partake in the challenge for the sake of pleasing him.
“Yosh!” Childe yelled. “First place gets the Applebloom Cider! You got this, Thoma!”
He shouldn’t be surprised.
Thoma ranked fifth. He was pretty satisfied with his position, given his amateur status compared to drunkard bard and overzealous goth princess or the alcohol-hating cat hybrid. The only upset entity was Childe, sulking pitifully like a petulant child.
He shook his head in crass judgment. However, it was worth seeing the despondent look morph into sheer optimism once he passed a glass of first-place wine into his partner’s hand. No, Venti did not share. He’s a selfish bard when it came to his alcohol. Yes, he snuck some wine from the bottle when the bard’s attention was innocuously pulled away.
It’s not his fault the little pyromaniac youngling adored fish. It was an easy bartering system, both sides benefitted from the deal. Besides, pyro wielders must stick together in times of trouble.
He returned to Inazuma with a clearer mind and a content heart. It was unfortunate that Childe was called away to another business expenditure. Nonetheless, he promised to write frequently, and visit as soon as he reigned free.
It’s been a few months.
He resumed his predictable patterns of responsibility and workaholism.
“I supposed you’re feeling discontentment,” Lady Kamisato expressed. They were residing back at the tea house with fresh dandelion tea that he brought home and fresh Sakura mochi.
“What? Never, my lady!” He almost panicked. He didn’t want to seem ungrateful to the Kamisato clan! That’s preposterous! Taroumaru’s loud barking was heard from the front.
“I’m teasing,” She giggled. “However, I have a proposition for you.”
“My lady?” He questioned.
“The Kamisato needs an ambassador. I’d go but I have my hands tied here with the estate while the father is caught up in Fontaine. We both agreed to nominate you as our representative. What do you say?” The amount of trust placed on him by this family was absurd. He never felt so worthy before.
“That’s an honor!” He kowtowed. She lightly chuckled.
“Your first stop is Snezhnaya,” She noticed the confused look on his face because really, what business do they have there? “You’ll have a guide.”
“A guide?”
“Me!” A loud voice boomed, and the sliding door opened rather loudly, exposing the recognizable figure. What is he doing here?
“Lady…” The distracting reveal must’ve given her a chance to leave the two males alone. He hadn’t realized she was that swift on evasion.
Childe plopped down on the floor next to him. The familiarity came rushing back to Thoma. It’s like he never left.
“Hello,” He shyly murmured. Childe rested his head against the blond’s shoulder.
“I’ve missed you,” Childe admitted. “I want to introduce you to my family. My younger siblings would adore you.”
A warm feeling pooled in his gut.
“What have you and Lady Kamisato been conspiring behind my back?” He jested.
“You are going there for business purposes,” The male drawled. “It happens to be interlacing with some familial engagement.”
“You could’ve just asked,”
“That’s not fun,”
Thoma gave a chaste kiss on Childe’s cheek. The flustered look made his heart swell with unimaginable feelings he cannot eloquently place on parchment. He, too, felt a contingency of euphoria.
“I look forward to meeting them.”
He’ll never reject the opportunities to create invaluable memories with his beloved.