Work Text:
-----------------------------------------------
─𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘈𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳
The weather seems to be getting colder. I do miss the feeling of sun on my skin. The other day, Tao offered me a cigarette. It was a bit surprising, since neither of us have ever smoked, not even once. Maybe it's because of the alcohol, maybe we were just lonely. We smoked together. Tao ended up emptying the tofu she had for dinner, but it still felt nice. Warm.
I know it's childish of me, but I couldn't help but think about you. You've always said that "smoking was a killer", but really, it's hard to picture you saying that now. Not you, not me, not anyone. Maybe one day, I'll bump into you at the backstreets of the north wharf, a pack hidden in both our pockets. We could exchange lights, talk for a bit. I'd like that, and I'd like to think you would too.
Speaking of Hu Tao, she's been acting alot more lively lately. A bouquet of silk flowers, a bottle of osmanthus wine. She seems to be going out somewhere every other Thursday. It's good to know that at least one of us leaves the parlor regularly.
I know you've never liked or really knew Tao, but she's the only one who isn't scared of, well me. Maybe she sees me as a future client, maybe she doesn't. Either way, we both appreciate the company. At least I hope so.
You probably already know, but I heard Tao talk about the situation in Qingce. A client wanted to finalize some plans regarding the funeral service, I think. At least a dozen dead, hundreds injured. As much as it hurts to say, I've left flowers, as a show of respect ―in case it's one of your friends in the revolt. That well, died in the explosion.
The Liyue Qixing, or what's left of the Qixing signed another treaty with the Tsarita. Something about increasing the export of staple food. You said you left to make a change in things, but I can't help doubt that nothing has, or ever will change.
The clock rings eight. The director will be back soon, with the usual "take-out" for dinner. A rather recent addition to our routine, but I don't mind much. She's taken an interest in western cuisine ―perhaps you have too? I'd love to taste what you eat, for a change.
Oh, and I've asked Tao for another pack of cigarettes. I just wanted you to know. You know, since you're my brother. Even though sometimes, I wish you weren't.
Or maybe I'm just waiting for the validation I never got.
I miss you.
𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘓𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦.
-----------------------------------------------
[𝙽𝚘. 𝟸𝟻𝟻𝟹]