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So far, Kaeya’s life on campus wasn’t absolute shit for once. He finally got rid of a peculiar roommate he’d been stuck with since freshman year, which was honestly relieving. He wasn’t a bad guy. In fact, he was actually super well-meaning, but gods did it get irritating finding beetles loose in the room, not to mention that one time they were hidden in his blankets. Kaeya didn’t even want to entertain the memory of the stink bugs. He still checked his bed before sleeping every night till this day, but hopefully his new roommate would never call him out on it.
His name was Kaedehara Kazuha, also a junior and an environmental science major, and he was an objectively good roommate. He wasn’t annoying and loud like the previous one; he even took out the trash and shared his cooking. Kazuha was what he’d refer to as, ‘a chill and easy going guy.’ Kaeya liked his roommate, even if said roommate and the friend he brought over.. often brought up questionable discussions.
Kazuha opened the shared fridge to grab a drink (It was supposed to be a dry campus, but nobody really gave a shit as long as they weren’t puking in the hallway); only to hear two pings coming from his phone. He hummed in amusement as he checked the screen, “Albedo said he‘s almost done with the batch and to meet him when we can.” Kazuha passed a drink to Tighnari as the said man snickered in response.
“We might as well head out now, wouldn’t want to keep him waiting with all the projects he has going on.”
“Albedo? Huh… Where have I heard that name before?” Kaeya questioned out loud. As if in que, Kazuha’s phone pinged again and he continued typing while responding, “He’s that friend from our chem class we always talk about. He’s also your brother’s roommate.”
“Oh, that Albedo,” Kaeya drummed his fingers against their dining table in excitement as his thoughts sorted, “I didn’t know you guys were close. Diluc says he’s quiet and doesn’t leave the room often and he usually finds him mumbling to himself a lot.”
“Yup, that’s our Albedo,” Tighnari lifted the soda can up in mock salute and nodded at the recollection of the man.
“So you’re heading to Luc’s dorm, huh? Can I come with? Need to drop off some stuff.” The albino looked up at Kaeya in mild surprise at the proposal, “Really? Didn’t he prohibit you from disturbing him in his free time? If you’d like, I can just drop them off for you.”
“Nah, it’s fine. Wouldn’t miss a chance to purposely bother Luc and get on his nerves. Plus, it would be nice to finally meet the infamous Albedo everyone keeps talking about.”
Kazuha chuckled, “Sounds like a plan. Should we head out now?” Kaeya hurriedly finished stuffing his leftover food into his mouth and dropped the plate in the kitchen sink.
Walking back over to the two, he flipped his hair over a shoulder and shifted his weight to one foot, placing a hand on his hip in the process.
“Do I look presentable, gentlemen?”
“Dashing as ever, Captain Kaeya!” Tighnari teased, cocking a smile at the bluenette.
“Immodest in a sense, but glamorous nonetheless, if I do say so myself,” Kazuha added smoothly as the other rolled his visible eye at their responses. With a satisfied smirk, Kaeya grabbed the duffel bag full of Diluc’s belongings and followed the two men out the door.
-
When they finally reached the dorm, Kaeya strode forward and knocked hard. The sound echoed down the hall and after a moment of no response, he did it again. His fist was raised in preparation for a third by the time an irritated-looking Diluc nearly threw the door open with a huff. He barely glanced at Tighnari and Kazuha as he expected them to arrive. However, when his gaze locked on Kaeya, his creased brow flattened out to one of annoyance. “Kaeya, what are you doing here?”
“So rude, is that any way to treat your younger brother,” the blunette scoffed dramatically as the other rolled his eyes at his brother’s action, slinging his empty arm over Diluc’s shoulder and throwing him off balance, “and to think I came all this way to drop off your things.”
The bag was snatched from his hand, and was then promptly pushed off of his darling brother. Sneaking past him, Kaeya entered the cozy living room area and plopped himself down on the armchair that looked much too fancy for a college student. Perks of them going to one of the most prestigious universities in Teyvat, he supposed.
The two shorter men walked themselves in as the two brothers continued to bicker; albeit in a much more dignified manner, Diluc at their heels.
“Come on,” Diluc beckoned them to follow, “He’s in here.”
Kaeya sprung to his feet, eager to meet the so-called ‘Alchemist’ who was seemingly infamous in his friend group for performing all sorts of experiments on campus. They followed the redhead through the space until they reached an inconspicuous room in the back corner.
Diluc knocked in a stately manner that Kaeya would so make fun of him for later, and opened the door after a muffled “Come in” could be heard beyond it.
The room looked like a lab straight out of a sci- fi movie. Vials, flasks, intricate science equipment and hell, who knows what else sat orderly and organized on the work table and shelves. Everything smelled vaguely of antiseptic, and the smell got stronger as they walked inside. The stark white lighting that beamed down from the ceiling illuminated the lone figure standing at the table, their lab coat and hair shrouded in an ethereal glow.
“Hey Albedo, are you almost done?” Kazuha greeted the blonde man currently jotting things down in his notebook.
“Mostly, just writing down this trial’s results so far and testing its safety.”
“Albedo, eh?” Kaeya looked over at the shorter man as he turned to face him. His silvery-blonde locks framed his face and rested gently at his shoulders. The longer strands were pulled into a bun, free strands flying wildly in every direction. Albedo caught his gaze, his irises were the color of a tranquil aquamarine sea; grandidierite twinkling as if it were polished and held up to the sunlight. They shone crystalline and bright; full of intelligence indeed. Probably speaking of years of unbounded curiosity and heavy with knowledge. No doubt of questionable chemical formulas, he supposed. His eyes traveled a little lower, down to the strange but somehow fitting elongated diamond tattoo on his neck, golden against his pale skin. He knew staring was bad, but he couldn’t muster the strength to tear his gaze away-
“Hello, and you are..?”
Blinking a few times, he pulled himself together and looked back up at Albedo’s face, hoping his face wasn’t as red as it felt.
“Kaeya. Nice to finally meet you.”
”I see. You’re Diluc’s younger brother. He often talks about you.”
“Oh? Does he now?” Kaeya shot a look at the redhead with the makings of a shit-eating grin on his face while the other only scoffed and crossed his arms. Leaning over, he nudged his brother’s side with a jab of his elbow, “Hope it's not anything negative.”
A soft chuckle escaped the blonde’s lips and, oh was it the cutest sound Kaeya had ever heard?
“Mostly good things,” he responded with an amused smile. “Well, I’m just about finished up here. You can all go wait in the living room, and I’ll be out soon.”
Diluc gave a wave and said something about putting his things away before turning away, Kazuha and TighnarI followed behind, but not before giving an eyebrow raise at Kaeya’s direction. That left him and Albedo alone in the lab together. The bluenette’s heart began to pound in his chest, but he swallowed his nervousness and approached the shorter man. Now that he’s closer to him, Kaeya could see faint goggle marks lining the chemist’s face, the likely culprit being the safety goggles laying on the table next to him. Bet they looked dorky as hell, and he most definitely did not think Albedo would be cute wearing them.
“So, Albedo? What’s that you were messing with?” The blonde looked up, startled by the man still being present. His eyes widened in excitement at the realization of the question.
“Hm, this? It’s a lysergic acid from a crystalline compound, it will cause a potent hallucinogenic effect if consumed. I’m currently writing what I’ve added, its effects, and texture. I’m also testing reactions on this vial with a reagent to make sure it’s safe for Kazuha and Tighnari to digest.”
“Ha, interesting. You almost made it sound like you’re making drugs.”
“In theory… yes. This is a psychedelic drug. LSD to be precise.” Oh, interesting indeed. Kaeya approached the man closer and glanced over at the man continuing to write down his notes filled with words Kaeya couldn’t be bothered to try to pronounce in his head.
“Hmm,” Kaeya looked at the gel-like substance in the small rectangular glass dish next to the microscope, “I always imagined LSD to be a little square in some funny looking paper.”
“Yes! Acid is generally presented in a tab of blotter paper. Although, with the substance I’m currently making, this is what most consider as a ‘gel tab.’ It will be giving the same effects as any regular LSD on blotter paper. Though, some reports say many people feel as the gel tab gives them an intenser effect. It will be quite interesting if said claim can be proven correct.”
“So Tighnari and Kazuha are like your little guinea pigs before you sell them?” Albedo’s demeanor sours as he turns to the blunette with an irritated gaze. Fuck. Taking a deep breath, he eyes the taller man and returns back down to his notebook.
“…They’ve consented to trial these hallucinogens for my own personal research. They are not ‘guinea pigs,’ I will never put them in any harm or danger. I don’t know what you’re imagining, but I’m no dealer and I don’t sell these.”
Ah, shit. Kaeya raised his hands defensively with a timid smile, “I- uh.. sorry didn’t mean it like th-“
“Kaeya,” Diluc spoke out sternly from afar the flat. Kaeya turned back to Albedo and excused himself with a silent apology as he left the blonde. The redhead eyed at his brother intensely, almost like a warning. “You should stop bothering people and help me with dinner.”
“How cruel Luc, I was only curious about the brilliant and skilled chemist you happened to room with.” They set around cooking in a silent rhythm, Kaeya preparing the ingredients and Diluc working at the stove. This was the meal routine they shared since before they lost their father, an unspoken tradition that withstood time and all of their petty squabbles.
“Does that include offending him?” Kaeya grimaced at the recalled moment, already making a mental note to return to Albedo with a more genuine apology.
“..So you heard that? Eavesdropping much.” The redhead rolled his eyes as he continued moving the ground meat around the pot.
“He’s not a drug dealer if that’s what you‘re wondering. From what I’ve gathered, he likes to test with different subjects that catch his interest. He warned me beforehand of his… expiramantations. It seems that psychedelics and the human mind just happened to be this month’s theme.”
“He’s a smart and intriguing guy, that’s for sure. And,” Kaeya momentarily stopped, dropping his voice to make sure only his brother hears, “quite an eye candy too.” Diluc cringed, now staring at his brother for a sign to indicate he was joking. But they’ve been together since childhood, they’re able to know what each other’s mannerisms mean. He blinked. Blinked again. Oh no.
“Ugh, fuck. Don’t go flirting with my roommate, Kae,” his voice lowered in annoyance, pointing his wooden spoon at the blunette. Kaeya stopped cutting the tomatoes, waving the knife away and slowly creeping up a grin.
“What can I say? He’s my type. And he’s really piqued my interest.”
“You’re disgusting.”
“But you love me.”
“Debatable.”
“Hey!”
After a brief pause, Kaeya broke the silence and tested his luck again.
“So is he single?”
“Kaeya, if you don’t shut up right now I will poison you.”
“Albedo can make me an antidote, right?”
“Get the fuck out of my kitchen, ass.”
“Yes sir,” Kaeya replied mischievously, chuckling as he dodged a wooden spoon on his way out.
-
Kaeya approached his brother’s dorm again, quickly shifting in a more casual posture. He knocked on the door in a more gentle way compared to his playful harshness. After a few more minutes of what he assumed was mild panicked shuffles, the door opened. The blonde peeked over the gap.
”Kaeya? Hello,” Albedo awkwardly said to the unexpected guest, “My apologies, but Diluc isn’t home today.”
“S’alright. I’m actually here to see you.” Kaeya said kindly, gaze now lowered towards Albedo’s eyes.
“Is that so? Can I help you with anything?”
“Well, uh”, Kaeya pulled a small pasty box out to Albedo. On display, it showed a slice of cheesecake with a brand logo and a red bow on top for show. Courtesy of Diluc mentioning how he ‘often finds his new roommate eating desserts when he’s not locked up in his room.’ Thank the Archons for Kaeya’s great memory!
“I bought cheesecake. For you, of course.”
“Cheese…cake?”
“Yeah! You’re free to not eat it,” Kaeya’s face grew a coquettish grin, now eyeing the chemist with droopy eyes and a grainy voice, “though, I heard somewhere that when someone exhausts themselves, sweets can often be a highly effective boost.”
“Interesting, well, I for one..” Albedo took the pastry box, eyeing at the red bow and picking at the end of the loose strand to untie it, “..can agree in some way.” Woah. Albedo smiled and headed to the small dining table. Kaeya took this as an open invitation and entered the flat, seating himself at the chair in front of the blonde.
“And–” Albedo, now picking at the dessert with soft joy, perks up at the bluenette’s sudden change of tone and softened features, ”I hope it can also compensate a bit. You know, from the other day? I want to apologize. I never meant to offend you in any way,” Kaeya’s cocky smile returns, musing his hand at Albedo’s direction and sighing playfully.
“With someone as smart and beautiful as you, it’s no wonder I’d spit out some stupid shit.”
“Flattering,” Albedo muttered as he took another spoonful of the cheesecake and Kaeya could only snicker at the scene.
“I don’t blame you for thinking what you did.”
“Is that so?”
After a brief moment, Albedo released a deep exhale, “Though, and excuse my rudeness, you really do not know me,” he stated, with hooded eyes. Stern, but not ill-mannered. Calm, but an attractive firmness.
“I’m very expansive in my field of work. I may have inexplicable ideas for my personal research. Whether it’s a trivial or a complex matter, I yearn for nothing but to solve mysteries even the human mind cannot comprehend. Tell me, does said goal not require certain restrictions to be breached, Mr. Ragnvindr?”
…
Fuck me.
“Alberich.”
“…Pardon?”
Kaeya breathed out softly, still stunned at the man’s words, “Alberich. Me and Diluc have different last names. And— you’re right,” the bluenette rises, slowly treading carefully in front of the chemist, “-we don’t know each other, so let’s start again.”
With a coy smile, Kaeya reached out his hand to the blonde. Albedo contemplates the man’s gesture, wary of his action, he takes the offer anyway. His pale hand brushing against the other golden almond’s skin. The taller man bows, taking the timid hand of the blonde and gently placing a tender kiss on the back of it.
“Nice to meet you, Alchemist. The name is Kaeya Alberich.” Albedo’s eyes widened, dumbfounded by the man. Was the hand-kiss greeting too much? After a short silence, his features eased into a small smile. Mimicking the other’s display, he took Kaeya’s hand and placed a soft kiss in the back of his palm in return.
“The pleasure is all mine, Kaeya Alberich. I am Albedo. Albedo Kreideprinz.”
-
From then on, Kaeya used every excuse in the book to swing by Albedo’s dorm. Asking Albedo if he could borrow some.. eggs? He ran out of scratch paper? Diluc borrowed something three years ago and now he wanted it back? He was there. And boy, was it getting on Diluc's nerves.
“Let me guess? Coming to pick up that unimportant coupon card you oh so happened to leave on the couch the other day?” The redhead peered from the door as Albedo greets Kaeya inside.
“Oh, you. Sorry I came so late to pick it up, I actually just came from there and realized I didn’t receive my twenty percent off on all sales. Let me make it up to you, Luc. I can help you with dinner?” Kaeya smiles with obvious sarcasm as Diluc mutters a string of curses, throwing a couch pillow his way and the other catching it with ease. Albedo giggles at the brother’s petty fight and makes his way to the kitchen.
“Actually, I suggested to Diluc that I should cook dinner for us tonight. Since he just came from work not that long ago, I didn’t want him to exhaust himself even more.” Kaeya turned to Albedo excitedly, putting the pillow down and now joining the other’s side. He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t quite curious about how the chemistry major will set about cooking.
“How kind of you Albedo. Then let me assist you as an apology for crashing you two so late.”
“No please, allow me-”
“Nonsense, sunflower. What kind of person will that make me if I let you cook dinner for all of us and not aid in any way?”
“Sunflower?”
Shit, too soon?
“Say no, he likes to put fruit on meals.” Diluc added while expressing disgust to a certain dish.
“Well tonight we’re not making my famous skewers. So, Albedo, what are you suggesting we make?” The chemist pondered with a soft hum, rocking his weight back and forth.
“I have something in mind, but I’ll need to go to the grocery store.”
“No worries. I’ll come with you.”
“I’m not opposed to that! Please get Kaeya out of here,” his brother remarked. Albedo nodded, as he swiftly got his car keys and money ready. The two head out with Kaeya flicking Diluc off with a satirical smile as they leave; closing the door behind him, a loud thud was heard. Another pillow?
-
After a while of grocery shopping and mild chit chat, the two arrive back at the apartment. Kaeya carried most of the bags for that one-trip satisfaction. Albedo may have teased him for it, but it was so worth it.
The two continued their talk from earlier as they both set themselves cooking in the kitchen. Like his routine with Diluc, Kaeya sides himself with Albedo, chopping away the vegetables. Carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, all piling up as he peers back to look at the shorter man. Looking down on the measured teaspoon to an exact amount
“You seem to be quite meticulous with those ingredients.” Simple remark, but one that made Albedo become conscious of his furrowed eyebrows. Does he always become like this with his work?
“Aren’t you?”
“Not at all, I just add things as I go. In the end, they turn out pretty good and very much edible.” Albedo looked surprised and confused.
“When it comes to my field of work, you have to be extremely specific with the chemicals. Adding too much or too little can potentially cause an accident. I suppose those habits of wariness have also peered into my cooking abilities.”
“Not to worry, I'm sure none of us would mind a little saltiness in our food.” Albedo looked down with a soft pout, more relaxed than previously. After a brief silence, Kaeya picked the conversation up as Albedo continued cooking the sprat fish.
“So tell me, dear alchemist, what’s the inspiration for this dish?” Albedo shifted his feet awkwardly, the silence was stretched. Kaeya was about to retract his words when suddenly the other spoke back up in a murmured tone.
“My younger sister likes to go fishing. She would often bring some home and I would have to come up with different dishes with the fish she brought.” Kaeya’s smile widened.
“You have a younger sister? Do you happen to have any photos? I would love to see her,” Kaeya expressed excitedly. Despite being the youngest between him and Diluc, Kaeya would recall memories of two sisters who would come over to their place. Kaeya enjoyed being considered an older brother to that little girl back in their hometown.
“Hm, I believe I do,” A perplexed expression was shown by Albedo, though with giddiness and excitement show, he dried his hands with the kitchen cloth and pulled his phone out. He taps away and shows a bright photo to Kaeya. In it is a picture of a smiling girl and a woman squeezed into frame. The little girl holds what appeared to be a small bunny plush. She had her blonde hair in pigtails and was wearing a bright red hat. The older woman looked identical to the child with a matching cap as well.
“She looks adorable! Is that your mother on the right?”
“Uhm, I consider Klee as a younger sister, but Alice isn’t my biological mother. I was actually adopted.” Albedo withdrew from the conversation, putting his phone away and turning back to cooking. Kaeya can tell Albedo had gotten uncomfortable with the subject. Mental note to not be pushy with talking.
“I'm actually adopted too. Yeah, Diluc’s father took me in.” Kaeya said, trying to ease the situation,”Shocker I know, but I feel like it was pretty obvious since I’m better looking than him.” Diluc can be heard doing a holler from the couch and a murmured ‘yeah right.’
Albedo laughed at the attempted joke, “And here I thought you two were twins. Guess my hypothesis was incorrect.”
“Seems like my earlier sarcasm is rubbing off on you. I must admit, it doesn’t look bad.”
The two continued cooking with heartfelt jokes as they finished the dish. Albedo laid the food in a stylistic way using the vegetables and fruit they cut. Kaeya almost felt like it told a story, a miniature world-in-a-play with a castle and trees. Shouldn't there be a prince in such a kingdom?
-
If Kaeya was being honest, he would also point out how ridiculous he was acting. For the past few months, there wasn't a single week where he wasn’t visiting his brother’s dorm. All just to see a beautiful blonde haired nerd. Kaeya knows more about Albedo’s habits than all his closest friends combined. He knows his eating patterns. He noticed how he sighed whenever a pen just doesn't feel right. Or how he rubbed the calloused area between his thumb and palm after finishing an assignment. Yet he somehow felt like he didn't know anything about him. Albedo wasn’t much of a talker, well, not as much as Kaeya would like. Most of their time hanging out, it is either a peaceful silence or Kaeya rambling about what happened that day. It wouldn't be much of a surprise if Albedo revealed a timeline of Kaeya’s day to day life. So all he has to go by is watching the alchemist as he works. Sometimes he wants to finish his work for him so he can just take him out and make him talk about himself rather than his work. He wants to know more about Albedo, the deeper part, but Kaeya knows better than to force someone to talk.
This is really ridiculous..
“Why don't you just ask him out?”
“As if it were that simple,” Kaeya huffed as he stirred his wine glass. If he was gonna ask anyone for advice regarding Albedo, it is most definitely none of his friends. So he went with the one person he felt he could trust. But who knew someone as romantic and poetic as Kazuha would result with such bland proposals.
“I assumed you of all people would suggest something better than this. Can't you just tell me what he likes and looks for in a person? Does he even like men to begin with?”
“You’re expecting too much, Albedo isn't a complicated guy. If you ask him anything, he’d answer you truthfully.”
“Hmph, no help at all.” If it were any other person, Kaeya wouldn’t struggle with hitting on them. Sure, he wasn't the best, but he knew his way with words more than the average person. A silver tongue one might say, but Albedo was another story. All of Kaeya’s attempts of implicating any romantic interests ended flying over Albedo’s head followed with pragmatic responses. That or this was his attempt at declining Kaeya’s feelings, although looking at him, it was hard to tell.
“Could it be that Mr. Hotshot is.. timid?”
“Me? Timid? As if.” All Kaeya knew is that he wanted to try his hardest, be more careful. In the beginning, he made things awkward many times and he definitely didn't want to repeat that embarrassment. He pouted at the recollection, filling his glass as full as he could. A couple sips later and Kazuha gave a sigh of defeat.
“Look, I know Albedo may seem quite daunting to talk to with your shyness,” not shy, “but he’s not one to regard someone's feelings. It really may be that he hasn’t picked up on your ques. If you really want to follow my advice and make this situation go somewhere, ask him out, straightforwardly.”
“I know,” and he really did. Kaeya knew if he wanted to get anywhere with Albedo, he had to communicate, “but for some reason, I really don't want to mess this up.” Could he really call this feeling a simple crush at this point? He sure didn't want those feelings to go any further if there wasn't anything to pursue. Not ever.
“Wow, I didn’t know you were such a pussy.”
“I am not a pussy!” And he was indeed, no pussy. Which is why he currently stood in front of his brother’s dorm once again. He calculated everything on his way there. Casual formal clothes, not extreme, yet not too dull. Soft cologne with a hint of sweetness, Albedo’s favorite . He knew Diluc’s work schedule to know he wasn't going to be present for a long time. And up to Kaeya’s knowledge, this is one of the few days Albedo has free time. Finally , he will settle this once in for all, Kaeya will finally know if he has a chance with Albedo or not. A few calming breaths later, he knocked on the door. Not long after, Albedo opened it.
“Hello Kaeya.” Woah, Deja vu.
“Hey, mind if I come in?”
“Not at all, this is practically your place as well.” The two settle inside, Kaeya shuffled awkwardly and twiddles his thumbs around. No! He decided he was finally going to do it. There is no backing out now.
“Hey, so I was wondering if you wanted to go out with me, just the two of us.... for dinner?” Way to go for it. It may not have been as straightforward and direct as he hoped for, but anyone will be able to pick up that it was definitely suggesting a date.
“Oh, uhm.. I'm sorry, but I must decline..”
Ouch. Kaeya didn’t want to admit it, but he at least hoped for it to come out as a platonic hang out as a backup. Oh well, this was what settled it. Albedo really didn't see him as a potential love interest. All Kaeya had to do was to get over his feelings and move on. He didn't want to look up and make his shame obvious, so he put on his convincing smile and walked towards the door.
“Haha, it’s okay. I’ll leave you be th-”
“Kaeya wait..”
After all this time hanging out with Albedo, it was mostly quiet. Kaeya did most of the talking while Albedo added a short input in response. Albedo would often talk about his work, but never went further. Kaeya mostly let their time flow with the mood, never forcing anything out and never crossing a boundary that he knew he shouldn't cross. This also applied to anything physical, even if it was minor brushes. He maintained his distance since he noticed the other would get uneasy afterwards. Yet, here Albedo was, grabbing Kaeya’s arm firmly, as if he was afraid to let go.
“I was actually heading to the craft store tonight. I ran out of some materials and I wanted to ask if you could please accompany me?” Albedo’s face was mostly expressionless, it didn't change after he asked the other out. For a man with few words the only thing the blunette could do was observe, so he watched the blonde’s gaze looking so intently at him. Even as Albedo released his hold on Kaeya’s arm, he was still tugging at the hem of his sleeve. There really was no denying it now. Kaeya was whipped once again, his breath caught in his throat and an airy gasp seeped out.
“Okay.” That was truly all he could say in response.
-
The way to the craft store was like any other hang out. A peaceful quiet with mild chit chat of how their week went. As soon as they arrived Albedo went back to his focused self. Kaeya grabbed a little basket and followed the blonde around. Albedo looked at notebooks, paints, pens, and other materials he wasn't sure what they were used for. Silent mutters would string out of the other, Kaeya picked up that these were mostly him thinking out loud and to not interrupt him unless he asks you something directly. It was calming, but Kaeya still wishes they could’ve done more than before.
After an hour, the two arrived back at the dorm. Kaeya was carrying most of the bags since he always offered to do most of the labor. They walked in with Albedo closing the door behind him. Diluc wasn’t home yet, which isn't much of a surprise since his bartending job usually keeps him busier on the weekends.
“I appreciate you accompanying me, I’m glad you came along.”
“Glad I could help,” he replied, placing the items down carefully. Who knew art supplies could be so expensive? The air was silent, this was Kaeya’s usual que to leave. Once again, he began to make his way out with a polite nod, “thanks for having me over. Hope your night goes we-”
“I apologize if it's too much but is it possible if you can stay a little longer?”
Deja vu again.
“Of course not, do you need help with some work?”
“No. I’ve been meaning to request this for a while now, but if you don't mind, is it okay if I can draw you?”
Oh?
“I'm quite flattered that our dearest chemistry major would want to draw me of all people. Have I perhaps piqued your interest?” Kaeya was now staring daggers. Albedo cleared his throat, demeanor more bashful than ever.
“As upfront as it may seem, you have indeed. You have a certain element I can't quite put into paper accurately. No matter how many times I've attempted, it appears I cannot seem to portray it as precisely as I hope for. I figured it’s only logical to request for your presence.”
Kaeya was stunned, it was blatant indeed. He didn't know what to process first. The fact that Albedo wanted to draw him in his presence or that he’s attempted to do so in his private time. One thing is for sure, something was telling him that this was his only chance to get closer to the man.
“I would be honored to assist you in any way.” He was ready to sit himself on the couch until he noticed the blonde signaling down the hall.
“I would like to draw you in my room, please.”
Oh my god..
If this was anyone else, Kaeya would assume the person was suggesting to bed him. It’s unbelievable to say, even after all these months, Kaeya had never been in Albedo’s room. Diluc’s dorm was meant for three tenants, though with Albedo’s bizarre research and workfield, they decided to stick with just the two. Albedo made the unoccupied room his work room and he spent most of his time there. If he wasn't in his work room then he was usually in the living room, and if he wasn't in the dorm, he was in some class or in a library. Kaeya’s rarely seen the man rest, he even assumed the blonde doesn't even get a wink of sleep.
With a mumbled okay, Kaeya stood up and followed Albedo to his room. The bluenette didn't know what to expect, yet the scene didn't surprise him in the slightest. The room was quite dark compared to his lab. Art supplies were scattered around in a corner with a floor lamp hovered over it. There was a frame stand holding a canvas with an abstract painting on display. A peacock was illustrated with hues of blues, greens, and purple all over, you can faintly point out the golden strokes in between. On the other side, there was a small desk with organized books and a laptop. On top of it, there was a cork board filled with notes pinned all over, Kaeya could only guess they must be plans or project ideas. What really stood out the most on the board was a simple yellow sticky note with a doodle of a circle with a patch.
“You can sit in my bed if you’d like, I’ll just be sketching you for today.” Albedo plopped in the end of the bed, pen and notebook already in hand. Kaeya obliged and sat himself beside the other.
“Would you like me to make a pose or should I just sit here and look pretty?”
“You can just sit there and look pretty.” Shocked by the other, Kaeya remained quiet and composed. It always took him by surprise when the chemist followed along with his teasing. Albedo took a long look at him and proceeded to flow his hands on the paper. Kaeya couldn't see what the man was doing but he was working fast. Really fast. Five minutes hadn’t even passed and Albedo was already flipping another page over. Page after page kept being filled and flipped. Kaeya knew he was talented, but working so quickly was leaving him in awe. Not to mention the way Albedo kept eyeing him, it was really making him conscious of the others gaze.
“You know if you really wanted, I could’ve sent you my best pictures to make your drawings a bit better.”
“Reference is always recommended when drawing. Though I believe us being in close proximity here makes these portraits be more fundamentally accurate than a mere picture could ever accomplish.”
“Haha, if you wanted me around you could’ve said so. I’d be more than pleased to model for you anytime you needed.”
“Is it not considered selfish of me to crave your presence, even on less ideal occasions such as these?” Albedo’s moves slowed, bangs framing his eyes as he looked down at his work.
…
Oh.
“Do you want me around a lot?”
“I do.”
“Then can I ask for something selfish as well?”
“Of course.”
“Can you lay here beside me.. and talk.. about yourself?”
“Of course.”
The blonde placed his pen and sketchbook in the nightstand. Kaeya slowly scooted as Albedo creeped in and laid beside him, never breaking eye contact during the whole ordeal. It was quiet. Tension was filling the air, the only thing Kaeya could do was breathe steadily as he watched the blonde look back at him with a softened gaze. They were close, really close. He can count every single lash on Albedo if he wanted to. He was ethereal.
“What would you like to know?” Albedo’s breath tickled Kaeya’s cheek. So close..
“Everything.”
“Where do I begin?”
“I just want to hear you talk about yourself more.”
“Do you have any suggestions?”
“Uh.. Is there any food you dislike?”
“I am fine with most things, but I dislike big portions of meat due to my low appetite.”
“Makes sense. What’s your favorite plant?”
“I would say I find Cecilia flowers quite beautiful.”
“They are indeed. Hm.. Why don’t you tell me something embarrassing you’ve done? There’s no way a genius like you hasn't made mistakes. You don’t have to say much if it makes you uncomfortable though.”
“It’s alright. I suppose I’ll go with the time I accidentally ate a spider.”
“You ate it?”
“It wasn’t as horrid as it seems. I must say, the taste was rather intriguing.”
“And you enjoyed it? I think I would’ve passed out.”
“What else would you like to know?”
“What’s your favorite color?”
“I find gold very appealing. It’s quite nice to use on paintings.”
“I'm curious. As a chemistry major, why would you pick art as a hobby?” Albedo looked at the ceiling and Kaeya followed suit.
“Hmm… my younger years were.. unconventional. Chemistry was all I focused on most of the time, although one day I decided to take a different approach. I supposed I picked it up as a way to better learn the structure of living things and materials. It has been useful to aid in my experiments. After time, it eventually became a hobby of mine. It is indeed a pleasant way for me to relax and spend time.”
“Is that so? That does seem something you would do.”
“Anything else you’re curious about?” The blonde turned, facing Kaeya with anticipation. He turned as well, now looking directly back at him. It was silent again. So close, again. Kaeya gaped down at his lips, fully aware that the other was watching his gaze. A shaky breath escapes him. They were just a few inches away, and Kaeya could feel it. The tenseness in the air, the want and the need, and the hunger for that physical touch. He looked back at Albedo, following his gaze back to his own lips. They should kiss, they both want to, Kaeya can feel it, but he doesn’t cave.
“Can I make another selfish request?”
“Of course.”
“Can we stay like this for the night?”
“..Of course.”
Silence. Spending time with Albedo was usually quiet. Kaeya would often do the chatting and make small talk about his day. He would often wish they conversed more, but he knew better than to interfere with the other’s boundaries. But tonight, Kaeya welcomed the silence with open arms. It was peaceful, and it felt just right.
He didn’t know how it happened but Kaeya awoke with a faint light peaking through the window. Albedo was fast asleep and entangled in his arms. He slowly broke the embrace and covered him with a blanket, making sure not to wake the other. He made one last glance at Albedo’s relaxed face. With a kiss goodbye on his forehead, Kaeya parted away and headed back to his dorm.
-
Kaeya’s pencil slipped from his twiddling fingers and clattered to his desk again, loudly. Several students in the lecture turned to look at him in distaste. He never really cared for anthropology to begin with and only signed up for the credits. Besides, his mind was far too occupied by what happened the night prior, there was only one human he could think about at the moment.
Albedo..
Archons, just thinking his name made his heartbeat go haywire.
Even in sleep he was ethereal, from the way his ashy-blonde hair splayed itself on his cheeks to how his eyelashes fluttered softly with each intake of breath. His comforting weight on Kaeya’s chest, and the way he clung onto his arm like a sloth to a tree. Last night was the best he had ever slept. If he had it his way, they could’ve stayed there forever. But alas, anthropology.
Picking up his pencil, he went back to twirling it between his fingers, absentmindedly wishing it was a certain ash-blonde’s locks instead.
-
Several days had passed since that night, Kaeya had been in a daze as he completed his school work on autopilot. He raised his fist to the door, knocking firmly. Less than thirty seconds later, Albedo answered the door. For a moment they stared at each other, Kaeya eyeing his soft lips before looking back up into those mesmerizing eyes. Albedo cleared his throat, and started the conversation.
“Kaeya, I’m glad to see you again. Please, come in.”
He stepped aside to allow the taller man to walk through the door and led him to the lab space. In a florence flask, a new substance swirled, and the shorter man picked up his notes and began scrutinizing the mixture, copying down his thoughts with an adorable crease in his brow.
“So, what’s the latest project, Alchemist?”
“Mm, just another psychedelic I’ve been working on,” he responded. Jotting down as always, Kaeya seated himself beside him as he watched the other work, humming in amusement.
“It’s been quite a while since you dabbled back to this subject. What happened to the other time?” Kaeya brushed the strayed bangs blocking the blonde's eyes. Albedo didn’t falter by the action and answered in his casual tone.
“Kazuha and Tighnari have been a great help, but I’m quite dismayed by the results. There was certain information I was hoping to obtain, but it was foolish to believe I would receive a clear answer, so I’m renewing my investigation.”
“And what are the odds that you need a test subject?”
Albedo stopped his note-taking and looked up at him, eyebrows slightly raised.
“You want to try it?”
“I admit I am curious. Have you ever used your own creations?”
“A handful of times. Though, it was quite difficult to record any observations due to the physical effects the drugs had on me. All I could do at the moment was wait until it was out of my system and try my best to remember every piece of information. Sadly, I felt the genuinity was lacking as my experience was difficult to form into sentences. My own experience will also differ from other individuals, but it’s onerous to obtain specific data if you are not in the subject’s presence at the moment of the effects.”
“And do you have someone to observe this time?”
With a sigh, Albedo shook his head.
“I had asked Kazuha and Tighnari if they were willing to be testers again, but it wasn’t the best night. I had an emergency come up on short notice, so I had to leave them unattended for a while. When I managed to come back and check on them, I was too late. Tighnari had called his lover and took him with him. Kazuha had gone to another room and requested to be alone for the remainder of the day.”
“I see, that’s unfortunate. I’d love to be a tester for you. It's not like I haven't endeavored in substances before. I mean, all I’ve done is alcohol and weed at frat parties but that should be close enough, right?”
“You don’t understand what you're getting yourself into, psychedelics are nothing like cannabis.”
“Then explain it to me, won’t you. Tell me your thoughts, professor.”
“A psychedelic is a complex substance, it doesn’t work like other drugs. It’s difficult to say what it really is like being on it. Without reference or experience, no amount of explanation will do the chemical cocktail justice. Not to mention the physical symptoms. You also have to factor in the psychological aspect, the risks and benefits, your psyche and surroundings can have an impact on your experience. Though not dangerous, it can still alter your perception of reality. Time moves differently, everything goes so slow yet as quick as light. Worst cases scenario, your hallucinations and mental state become a negative delusion, and-”
“Woah. Easy there starlight, you’re overthinking this too much. It’s going to be okay. After all, you’re here to save me, aren’t you?”
Kaeya lightly placed his hand on Albedo’s chin, tilting it up slightly so that their eyes met.
“I know, it’s just,” a shuddering breath, “It’s just that I’m responsible for your wellbeing and it’s my research. I don’t want you to be in danger because of me. I want you to feel safe with me.”
“I do, I promise.”
He saw the alchemist’s breathing calm and deepen before he cleared his throat and turned his head away. He dropped his hand back down to his side, the ache of not holding him already setting in.
“So”, Albedo pondered, “do you have any favorite snacks?”
“What?” Kaeya was utterly lost.
“For after you take the substance, I mean. You’re most likely going to want something to eat or munch on.”
The bluette thought for a moment while the other man picked up his notebook and pen, flipping to a new page.
“I like the usual snacks. Cheetos, Reeses, Doritos, fruit snacks, Froot Loops, Jolly Ranchers. Oh, I love Push Pops too. And those little communion crackers.”
Albedo paused his nodding.
“Really?”
“Hey, they had them at the store once and I got curious.”
“Peculiar.”
“Don’t knock it till you try it.”
“Anyway, you will feel some symptoms while under the effects of the drug. Everything will feel stronger, brighter, and the lights may be too bright to stare at. Things in your line of sight may look like they’re moving from far away and may look and sound morphed or echoed. It’s hard to describe, but I promise it will make more sense once you’ve seen it for yourself.”
“I kinda get it,” Kaeya noted, “I’m definitely curious now though.”
“I’m glad. I still have a few more things to prepare, but we should be able to conduct the test next weekend if all goes well.”
“I’m looking forward to it.”
They exchange a soft smile then bid their goodbyes as Kaeya left the dorm, staring longingly at the closed door before beginning the walk home.
-
The week passed excruciatingly slow. Kaeya was swamped with assignments and studying, midterms were just around the corner after all. So when his much too early alarm rings on Saturday morning, he all but jumps out of his dorm’s bed that barely qualified as an actual bed.
Albedo had told him that LSD takes roughly 17 hours to go through the whole experience, so Kaeya was going over to his dorm early. Diluc worked the same shifts every weekend and just spent the night at Rosaria or Jean’s apartments since they live closer to his job. He left on Saturday mornings and came back late on Sunday. It wasn’t likely they would run into each other after the morning. Deep in thought, he didn’t realize he had reached the dorm until the very heavy door was almost smacking him in the face. A surprised Diluc peeked his head out from behind it.
“Shit, sorry Kaeya. I didn’t see you there. I didn’t hit you, did I?”
“No, no I’m okay don’t worry. I was kind of lost in my thoughts there,” he ran his fingers lightly through his hair.
“I heard from Albedo. Be safe, okay? I trust him and all, but you’re still my brother and I want you to promise me you’ll be careful.”
“I promise, you overbearing mama bird. Now go have a good shift, I don’t want you to be late.”
They share a glance before breaking off into soft mutual laughter.
“I guess I am a bit of an overbearing mother, huh.”
“Yup”, Kaeya elbowed him softly and barely dodged the reciprocating jab to his ribs.
“Well, I’ll see you on Sunday. I’m staying at Rosaria’s again.”
“See you Diluc. And tell her I said hi”, he waves as the other walks down the hall, and then walks into the dorm room.
He walked towards the lab and noticed Albedo was already inside, scribbling some last-minute notes. The alchemist looks up, his hair messily pulled up and bangs falling over his eyes. Archons, he really was stunning.
“We’ll be in my room, so you can go ahead and wait there. I’m just double checking everything one more time before we begin.”
“Sounds good”, Kaeya nodded in affirmation and went into Albedo’s room.
It was so very Albedo, in every sense of the phrase. Kaeya took the time to freely look around the chemist’s room. The bland dorm walls were covered with posters of the stars and chemistry-related things. He even had a framed periodic table, which made Kaeya chuckle. There were plants scattered on the desk and shelves, with one in bloom with beautifully white flowers. The room even smelled like him, intoxicating his nostrils with the scent of Albedo with every breath he took. It was all incredibly well-organized, but it still felt comfortable and homey. He could sink into this feeling.
Looking at the desk, Kaeya saw a picture that made his heart swell. It was Albedo and a little girl, his little sister, with blonde hair in pigtails and bright red eyes. He was giving her a piggyback ride in a field full of white flowers, the same ones that blossomed on the pot. Their faces were so full of joy and he looked up at the girl with so much adoration, Kaeya could tell that she was very important to him. It was also, without a doubt, the cutest thing he’d ever seen.
Also on the desk was a wide assortment of snacks. Everything he mentioned the previous week, even the push pops and those damned communion crackers. He’d partially mentioned them as a joke, but there was no denying he would eat them if given the chance. There were also drinks, water, Gatorade, various flavors of soda. What astounded him the most was an aid kit on the side with a working thermometer and stethoscope. Albedo really went out of his way to make sure he felt comfortable and cared for, and Kaeya would be lying if it didn’t make him feel warm and fuzzy.
Switching focus to the rest of the room, the first thing he noticed was the blackout curtains, shielding the sunlight from coming in. He thought back to when Albedo told him about light sensitivity, appreciating how far out of his way he’d gone. There was also a strange-looking orb placed on the floor, plugged into a spare outlet. Before he could finish deciphering what it was, Albedo walked into the room and stood next to him.
“Hey, I hope everything looks okay. I wasn’t sure what kind of drinks you’d like so I got a variety.”
“It’s perfect, thank you sunshine. Though, I am wondering what this is,” Kaeya gestured to the orb.
“Oh, that’s a star projector. I borrowed it from Tighnari for the weekend. I think you’ll enjoy it.”
Stars did sound pretty nice, he thought. Though, he did wonder how they would look after he took hallucinogen. They took a moment to get settled and sat on the bed, after which Albedo took out a small blotter paper with a pink elephant painted on it, surely with the tab of acid placed in it. He stands up and fetches a bottle of water from the table and hands it to the bluette, who takes it gratefully. Screwing off the cap, he takes the tab and washes it down with a gulp.
“And now what?”
“Now, we wait,” Albedo placed his hand on top of his, idly tapping his fingertip on Kaeya’s.
-
Kaeya wiggled in bed unable to remain still, it felt strange. Around two hours ago, he decided to lay in bed and watched the star projector while Albedo doodled around in his notebook. The bluenette had become giddy, moving his leg up and down as he felt the fabric of the blanket with the heel of his feet.
“Bedo,” Keaya groaned, sitting up to watch the blonde stop his sketching to look back up, “how do I know it’s kicked in?”
“Judging by your restlessness, I would say it has entered your system. You should be feeling other symptoms soon.”
Keaya murmured in understanding. With a new sense of boldness, he laid his head on Albedo's lap, taking the other by surprise. The blonde placed his notebook down, now paying full attention to the man below him. He watched as the other twirled around some of Kaeya’s loose strands, massaging away at his scalp. Keaya was mesmerized at the action, grinning from one ear to the other. Few giggles were escaping him and continued to come out one after the other. Albedo smiled, mimicking the other and releasing a few chuckles here and there.
“Albedo is laughing! Why are you laughing?”
“Witnessing you snickering compels me to do so as well.”
“Am I making you smile, Bedo?”
“You are,” Albedo responded, gifting a small peck at Keaya’s forehead with bashful giggles followed after. If he was sober, Keaya would opt to poke fun at his childlike attitude. ‘Like a schoolgirl getting attention from their high school crush.’ It was silly, he knows, but Albedo had reminded him to not shy from those emotions. The man will soon see the most vulnerable he had ever been with anyone, including himself. Albedo is special, and sexy. The musing thought drove him to cackles, voice coming out in a sing-song manner.
“I like it when you smile at me.”
“I see, I will keep that in mind.”
Oh, it’s kicking in..
-
Shapes. Vibrance. Colors. It’s amazing. Keaya was seated at the floor, staring blankly at everything around him. His visual acuity highley enhanced like he’s never been able to see before. Blues were blue. Reds were red. Golds were gold. Every movement was fluid like a flow to a river. Objects were distorted, morphing to a squash and stretch the way a carnival funhouse would act. He had gotten closer to them only for the illusion to halt. Keaya felt everything. Every organ and cell in his body down to the last molecule. The liveness and internal process of his body, the mechanics of his actions, feeling and breathing every atom into his living lungs.
“What do you see,” Albedo had asked.
What was he seeing? Every object he chose to give attention to would have complex geometric patterns shifting with its volume, making him feel like everything was really and truly connected with its surroundings. He caught a glimpse of his hand. Fingers stretching and morphing into branches seeping back into his olive skin. He raised his hand to take a closer look only to be met with another visually phenomenal sight. Maybe it was because of the star projector’s light, but he found himself carrying a scenery of the desert night in the back of his palm.
“Nature. It's so lovely, sunflower,” he responded back.
“You must have a lot on your mind right now. It has been six hours since you’ve digested the substance. Let me go get you a snack to ease your hunger.”
Six hours? Albedo was right, time was moving differently. Seconds felt like years, hours felt like minutes, nothing was moving in a linear line, as if time was nothing but a leisurely dance flowing in its own grace. The definition of time has lost its meaning indeed. Albedo turned around with two flavored push pops in hand. He sat himself next to the bluenett, forwarding his hands to him.
“Would you like the strawberry flavored or the raspberry one?” Kaeya didn’t hesitate to choose. Something in his unearthly mind correlated the raspberry flavor to himself, and beyond any doubt he wanted to see the shorter man in blue tints.
“I’ll take the strawberry one.”
Kaeya had tried this candy before, many times, actually. Reminiscence of his childhood flooded his mind as he licked the artificial flavor. It was sweet, yet metallic. Every taste picking apart the ingredients processed in its original form, he can vividly picture the factory work that went into his specific hard candy.
“Have I lost my mind?”
“Maybe,” Albedo said, sucking the candy, flavoring the new raspberry taste, “your thoughts have expanded and are speeding at an alarming rate, it must be hard to correlate everything. I’d say that's the textbook definition of losing one’s mind.”
He’s right.
“..But, you feel human now, don’t you?” Albedo adds as he props the candy back into his mouth.
Oh archons, Kaeya had reached a stage he’s never felt before. Everything is maya, the universe was alive because he himself was the universe, looking back at him with loving motherly eyes, it almost brought him to tears. Everything was a starting point and the ending to each and every moment in existence. Thought loops swirl around his mind, repeating and reviving again and again. Albedo’s lips let out a loud pop, grasping the blunettes attention.
“The raspberry one is pretty good.”
They’re blue.
As the chemist’s lips tint from the raspberry push pop, Keaya’s demented mind runs wild, his own thoughts dropping as his sense of self dissolves. He wants to touch them. No, his lips were not the ones he craved the most. It was the golden soul within Albedo that he wanted to psychically feel and love. What is this enigma of a man? What is this gold tinted layer in him that makes his broken blue soul want to seep into his deepest and most inner parts of his human heart? Has he been cursed? Has he been blessed? What good deeds in his past life has he done to earn his right to meet the one person that has changed the trajectory of his life?
He was seeing them, the sins of his past. Existence was a continuous cycle Kaeya had endured for millennia accompanied by a prince, or perhaps a dove. He sees himself with the enigmatic man in his past lives, loving and listening to him the same way he does in this lifetime. White fur, black corset, sword in hand, they were all set aside while he embraced the one bound to his soul as the snow flushed his lovers’ cheeks. He looks up into his eyes, realizing that Albedo had been staring at him as well. Those beautiful aquamarine eyes that he first felt endeared to, drove him into crystal tears.
“I love you, Kreideprinz.”
He truly loves him.
“Kae.. I-”
“I have in the previous lifetime and I will love you in the next one as well.”
Deep and dear into their connected souls.
“Such a charming confession, my prince,” Albedo’s hand caressed Kaeya’s eyes, wiping away the streaming tears, bodies inching forward mixing their illusioned colored auras. He looked deep at the shorter man’s eyes, just like that tendered night engraved into his mind. That’s it. Everything and everywhere that has ever happened to Kaeya, happened for a reason. And that reason was to bring him to this exact moment, and that exact moment is the reason he’s alive, and he’s alive to experience that exact moment. All that was, all that ever will be, all that it is.
“Can I kiss you?”
“Of course. May I kiss you?”
“Of course.”