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Christmas Day had been around the corner quicker than expected with the extensive touring and settling back into the rhythm of actually being at home again. They had tried to decorate the house (they really did) but somehow the boxes they had brought up from the cellar never got unpacked and now they had to do it all last minute.
To say II was panicking would be an understatement, they had to decorate, go grocery shopping, because of course no one had thought about what they would cook and actually prepare the meal they had agreed on (yesterday). That was why he liked to get stuff done early and be prepared because of course now he was stressing.
Vessel and III had obviously been tasked with decorating the house, being the tallest of them and the singer actually being able to direct III‘s crazy ideas into a more appropriate direction. To be honest there was no real system or pattern to it because who are we kidding Vessel wasn’t about to stop III from excitedly rushing around. At one point he was hanging up a little star on the wall and the next time Vessel checked he was spreading out a themed throw blanket on the armrest of the couch. The dispersion of colours was a thing for itself but somehow the bassist made it work. It was chaos, but it was so inherently III that Vessel couldn’t not adore it. The singer was sitting on the floor, the boxes of decorations spread around him in a circle simply unpacking items and handing them to III with a smile.
„Okay okay guys we’re leaving! IV you got the bags right?“ II yelled, standing in the doorway in a puffer jacket that definitely wasn’t his by how big it looked on him.
„Mh.“ IV just hummed in reply, he had opted for wearing only a hoodie, which looked positively ridiculous next to II but he had argued that „we’re going to be inside the store anyways“ with a shrug. II had just shaken his head and sighed, mumbling something about how he didn’t have time for arguing anyways.
„and the list?“ „Mh, in my pocket.“ „keys for the car and your wallet?“ „II…I’m not a little kid, yes they’re in my pocket.“
„and are you sure you don’t want a jacket?“ II still looked unconvinced by the guitarist’s outfit.
„I thought you didn’t have time for arguing?“ IV grinned which made II roll his eyes and stomp outside to wait by the car.
Vessel had stood up to press a light kiss to IV‘s cheek as a goodbye, but before he could leave the singer pulled him back by gripping his hand, a serious look on his face and mumbled. „Take care of him, okay?“ Concern was flickering in his eyes and it was clear that he was talking about II taking this way too serious and possibly working himself up. They had all seen how the drummer had become increasingly more nervous and uneasy throughout the morning as the tasks kept piling up and the to-do lists had become longer and longer.
„Don’t worry, love I will.“ IV just smiled, squeezing Vessel’s hand before closing the front door and making his way to the car.
„Thank fuck, I thought I would be freezing to death out here.“ II grumbled when IV finally unlocked the car for them to get in, immediately cranking up the heating for his shivering boyfriend.
„Well that would’ve been a shame! Who else would go on about how useless Christmas is while also working himself up way too much about it.“ IV stated as he pulled out of their driveway and started heading into town.
„Oh shut up, idiot.“ II just huffed, rolling his eyes once again and crossing his arms in front of his chest. IV just kept looking at the road but placed one of his hands on the drummer’s thigh in a silent invitation. When II finally interlocked their hands, after another 2 minutes of being childish, IV finally spoke. „You know I’m right, this isn’t as serious as you make it to be. It’s about us spending time together, everything else doesn’t matter.“
II sighed, absentmindedly drumming a rhythm on the back of IV‘s hand with his thumb. „I just want it to be perfect for you.“
IV sighed as well, knowing exactly that II was meaning well but definitely getting caught up too much in his head about it. „It doesn’t have to be perfect, you know worst case we’ll just eat sandwiches and some of III‘s Christmas cookies. Maybe Vessel will let us open one of his weird wine bottles as well.“
The smallest smile appeared on II‘s face at that and IV swore it was the first time that day that the drummer looked somewhat relaxed.
„You know how that ended last time…“ he admitted sheepishly.
„And I would gladly watch you and III doing acapella Christmas songs while dancing again, even though I think it was more of a drunk stumbling around than dancing.“ IV grinned as he pulled up to the parkinglot of the supermarket, once again squeezing II‘s hand before he turned off the car.
„Well you do it better then.“ II huffed but there was a small smile playing on his lips.
„Is that a challenge?“ IV smiled as he opened the door to get out and grab the bags from the backseat. Before they could make their way to the entrance though, II grabbed his hand and dragged him close. It must’ve looked quite funny because II definitely had to stand on the tip of his toes to whisper into IV‘s ear.
„I swear to Sleep, Vessel the fourth if you don’t dance with me tonight...“
„I promise I will.“ IV breathed back without missing a beat, gripping the drummer’s chin to place a lingering kiss on the II‘s lips.
When they finally entered the store II might’ve had reddened cheeks and those definitely weren’t from the freezing temperatures only.
——
When Vessel had returned from saying goodbye to IV, III had paused his attempts of finding a way to arrange the candles on the windowsill to look at him instead.
„IV will handle it, right?“ He furrowed his brows as Vessel sighed.
„You know he’ll try his best but let’s just make sure we look out for II as well, okay?“ The bassist nodded as he went back to arranging the candles, turning his back to Vessel. In a few long strides Vessel made his way to stand behind the slightly taller man, wrapping his arms around his waist as he watched him work.
„How are you, darling?“ Vessel whispered as III deemed his work finished with a little nod. The bassist instantly tensed at the question but quickly relaxed in his boyfriends arms as he turned around to face him.
„I’m just glad to have you.“ III admitted resting his forehead against Vessel’s for a few seconds, he seemed kind of distant towards the end of the sentence, but a big smile spread on his face as soon as Vessel cupped his cheek, making their eyes meet.
„That’s not really an answer, love. Are you alright?“ The singer’s voice turned impossibly soft.
„Yes I am, but everything will be fine, right?“
„Oh it will be I promise.“
„I love you.“ III smiled which in turn made the singer smile as well, his furrowed brows relaxing.
„Now chop chop we still have 3 more windowsills to decorate!“ III lightly clapped his hands and made little shooing motions at Vessel to get him even more decorations.
„Will the next one be less cluttered so we can maybe still open the windows or would that destroy the aesthetic, love?“ Vessel grinned as he went to pick up the next box of candles and various little winter themed sculptures.
„Nope and yes! Now hand me the decapitated reindeer please.“ III stated making grabby hands at the little statue. Vessel didn’t even try to hold back the little chuckle he produced.
„We should really ask IV to fix that at some point.“
„Maybe we should but it’s got a certain charm to it, don’t you think?“ The bassist grinned as he arranged it with its head laying next to it.
„Of course of course, what about a decapitation doesn’t scream ‚have a holly, jolly Christmas‘“ Vessel snickered.
III just rolled his eyes and mumbled „tasteless, all of them“ as Vessel kept dutifully unwrapping figurine after figurine and holding them out for his partner to take.
When they were finished, Vessel had wandered off to the kitchen declaring that they had earned themselves a cup of tea (and maybe some Christmas cookies).
III had started searching through various of the opened boxes in the living room, originally he had been looking for something specific but to be honest he had gotten sidetracked and was now arranging various pine cones, a wreath and you guessed it, even more candles on the dining table. Whatever decorations he had left were promptly put on the coffee table so at least that one was done now too.
By now Vessel had returned, somehow balancing 2 mugs of tea and a small plate of cookies which he set down on the coffee table.
„Looks lovely! Did you think about where to put IV‘s figurines yet?“
Ah, there it was, the thing III had been looking for in the boxes! For Christmas last year IV had gifted each of them a hand painted clay animal wearing a Christmas hat. Of course they displayed them all year round and not just during the holidays but in an attempt to be at least a bit organised II had gathered them in a box a few days ago. III liked to keep his on one of his shelves, while II kept his on his nightstand and Vessel’s changed place quite frequently. Sometimes the singer would set it on his piano, sometimes it was sitting on his desk and II had even found it resting next to the coffee machine in the kitchen once.
„Do you know where II put them? I couldn’t find them.“ III sighed as he sat down on the couch to have a sip of his tea.
„I think he put them next to the record player wait I’ll get-“
„No no it’s fine, we can put them up when they’re back so they can help us decide.“ III smiled as he lightly tugged Vessel back to sit down next to him again. The decorating could wait, now III wanted to be with Vessel instead. The singer instantly relaxed into his boyfriends side, resting his head against III‘s shoulder with a smile.
„Let’s take a short break, there’s not a lot of stuff that’s still missing anyways and I’ll gladly wait for the others to help with the tree.“ III proposed, tucking Vessel further into his side and leaning back to rest for a bit.
„You just want to watch us haul a tree again, don’t you?“ Vessel sighed, lightly pushing at III‘s chest who just grinned as he remembered last year.
„Are you kidding me? Remember how that shirt was clinging to II last year, I ain’t missing that opportunity!“ III acted almost insulted, flailing his hands and puffing out his chest at the now laughing singer in next to him.
„Well now you’re laughing but we know damn well that you’ll be the first to drool when IV takes his shirt off!“ III huffed as he leaned closer teasingly wiggling his fingers in front of Vessel’s face.
„Oh shut up!“ Vessel grinned, a light blush covering his cheeks as he pushed III‘s hands out of his face.
„I know what you are!!“ III exclaimed with a smug look as he booped Vessel’s nose with a giggle.
„Utterly in love with you!“ Vessel exclaimed with a grin that melted III‘s heart, oh he was so in love. III wasn’t even trying to hide his blush as he tackled the singer effectively trapping him against the couch as he pressed kisses all over the Vessel’s face. Vessel wasn’t trying to fight it, simply laughing as he wrapped his arms around III‘s neck to pull him even closer.
——
„Hey let me help you with that!“ III was instantly at II‘s side as soon as the drummer had kicked open their door. The bassist quickly took some of the bags that were loaded onto II, to be honest there were more groceries visible than there was of the man himself, his head barely poking out behind one of the top bags.
Vessel had followed close behind III and quickly slipped on some shoes to be able to help IV. The poor guitarist was still struggling with figuring out the logistics of carrying all of the produce they had bought, standing in front of the trunk with a lost expression.
„Hey love, how can I help?“ Vessel smiled as he pulled the smaller man into a side hug as a greeting. The relief that manifested on IV‘s face as soon as he realised he wouldn’t have to carry all of that on his own was instant.
„Thank Sleep! II went fucking crazy I didn’t know what to do, we can definitely survive being snowed in for at least 3 weeks with how much stuff we got.“
„Just means we can hibernate at home for the next few weeks, I don’t see a problem with that!“ Vessel grinned as he squeezed IV‘s shoulder.
„You didn’t carry it from the store to the car though…“ IV whined as he started sorting bags by how heavy they were and tried to evenly distribute them between Vessel and himself.
„We’ve gotta come back in a second because we also got way too much stuff for Theo…“ IV stated already halfway on his way towards the house. Vessel just nodded, grabbed the bags and went along with it. II‘s cat was beyond spoiled but they couldn’t blame him the fluffy little thing was beyond adorable.
When everything was finally brought inside and somewhat sorted and stored away, II was about to start planning when to start cooking but III simply snatched him by the waist and refused to let him go again.
„III!! Let me go!“
„No, you’re staying. We have more than enough time.“
II just huffed, reluctantly settling into III‘s hold. IV instantly seized the opportunity to cuddle up to his boyfriends as well, pulling II‘s head to rest against his shoulder, arranging him to sit sideways on the bassist’s lap and gently laying a hand on III‘s which was holding II‘s waist.
„let’s just relax for a second, okay? Then we can plan the rest of the day.“ Vessel suggested as he sat down next to III, watching his boyfriends with a fond smile. IV and III immediately nodded their heads and II also seemed to be on board. The drummer just rested against IV‘s shoulder with closed eyes having slowly relaxed into the gentle hold of his partners. Vessel also scooted closer, taking III‘s other hand in his as he leaned back to relax a bit as well.
„III you did a lovely job decorating.“ IV complimented, disrupting the comfortable silence as he finally got the time to take a look around the room. By now the only thing missing was the tree, after their break Vessel and III had finished wrapping the staircase with a garland of lights, hanging up a little wreath to their frontdoor and decorating the mantelshelf. III had also insisted on placing the little figurines from IV on it already, so caught up in the process he had forgotten about his idea to wait for the others.
„Thank you! Do you like where I put the animals? I thought they should be a centrepiece in the room but we can also place them somewhere else-„
„It’s perfect, love.“ IV interrupted III‘s rambling, squeezing the bassist’s hand who just grinned as he nudged Vessel.
„You hear that I did a good job.“
„Yeah you did, darling.“ Vessel pressed a kiss to III‘s cheek, which was slowly turning red from all the praise and made the bassist grin even harder.
——
II had started preparing their meal shortly after, already getting stressed about dinner again. The drummer had freed himself from the grips of his partners who had been more than unwilling to let him go. But II had just shoved poor Theo into their hands instead and told them to „fuck off and cuddle with the cat instead, because I have things to do.“. IV had seemed more than delighted by the fact that Theo instantly got comfortable on his chest but III wasn’t having it. The bassist followed II into the kitchen as soon as he had convinced a very sleepy Vessel to cuddle with IV and Theo instead of resting against him.
„How can I help?“ III announced excitedly bouncing on his feet as he eyed one of II‘s countless to-do lists. The drummer didn’t seem convinced, giving III an annoyed look from where he was brooding over one of the four cookbooks which were spread around him.
„Come on! Need me to chop some veggies for you?“ III wasn’t taken aback by the drummer’s attitude, he knew II preferred to work alone, especially in the kitchen. III was about to change that. The bassist grinned as he slung an arm around the smaller man, pulling him closer so he could stand behind him draping both of his arms over II‘s shoulders. Swaying them both from side to side, even though II was more than unwilling to fully relax.
He sang, purposely off-key to hopefully get the drummer to laugh.
„You know I’m good with my hands~~“ as he wiggled his fingers in front of II‘s face.
„III!“ II swatted at his hands, trying to escape the bassist‘s hold, he didn’t have time for this. For fucks sake they were all acting as if they didn’t want to eat something nice for dinner!
III just laughed as he spun II around, effectively pinning him against the counter and gripping his chin with one hand as he tutted and then grinned at the disgruntled drummer.
„Well that wasn’t nice! Just let me help, little one.“
Oh now II was proper annoyed, crossing his arms in front of his chest. First the bassist disrupts his careful planning and now he was keeping him from getting stuff done and insulting him?
„Did you just call me little? At least I don’t match the height of our Christmas tree.“ he huffed as he tried to stand as straight as possible, puffing out his chest.
„Let’s be real you’re gonna want my help by no later than when you need something from the top shelf, you angry little gnome.“ III giggled as he booped the drummer’s nose. II just huffed at a loss of words, rolling his eyes but suddenly becoming way too tired of III‘s little games.
„III please, I don’t have time for this.“ II seemed more desperate than annoyed now, his brows furrowed and eyes pleading as he tried to wriggle free. According to his time table the veggies should be ready to go into the oven by now, now everything else would be postponed and nothing was working according to plan anymore. III noticed the shift of emotions instantly, recalculating his next move, apparently bantering with II wasn’t working to get him out of his head like it usually did. He decided to switch tone, trying to be softer instead, maybe it was what II needed right now.
„Come on you know cooking all on your own when you’re already this worked up will end up with us eating toasts for dinner anyways. Not that I’m complaining, grilled cheese with Vessel’s expensive wine definitely was an interesting combo last year.“ III smiled, gently resting his hands on II‘s shoulders. II had to chuckle at that, remembering the shitshow that had been last years Christmas dinner and finally seeming to relax again.
„Thanks for having that much faith in my cooking skills, idiot.“
„To be honest I think not accepting your boyfriend as a hot sous-chef is idiotic behaviour but whatever.“ The bassist playfully rolled his eyes which earned him a light push at his chest by the smaller man in front of him.
„If you’re my sous-Chef does that make me the Maître de Cuisine?“
„See watching all those cooking shows with me did pay off in the end and of course you are, mon chéri!“ III beamed at II, who was lightly blushing at the nickname, all nervousness and stress forgotten.
„You know what they say about chefs who are in love though, right?“
Now it was III‘s turn to blush and whisper a little „huh?“, the bassist was confused to say the least.
„They oversalt the food.“
„What? You just made that up.“ III was still perplex, blinking at the drummer in front of him who had just shrugged and finally started chopping the vegetables. III just started chopping as well, even though his mind was still somewhere else, repeating II‘s words to try to find out if he was just fucking with him or if that was actually a saying. It was as if a lightbulb went on when III finally caught up to what II had actually meant by telling him that.
„Oh… I love you too.“ III grinned as he placed a kiss on the drummer‘s forehead, who was just chuckling having payed close attention to III‘s thought process.
——
Even though III had been a bit disappointed he couldn’t, as he liked to call it ‚observe‘ IV and Vessel putting up the tree, it had been more time efficient for them to take care of the tree while the cooking process had still been ongoing. There had been one longer time frame, III accredited II‘s impeccable planning abilities even though the drummer didn’t admit it to it, which had been used to decorate the tree together. There had been a record playing in the background, some old Christmas song one III had gotten at a yard sale for like 2 pounds a few years ago but now was a staple for them. Theo had eyed the tree a bit suspiciously but as soon as IV had put down an assortment of fairy lights beneath it and placed a sheer fabric over it a new favourite napping spot had been acquired.
In the end the food had turned out perfect, well maybe II and III‘s bickering could be heard all the way into the living room at some points during the preparation but that didn’t matter. IV had eyed the kitchen suspiciously from time to time but Vessel had told him it would be fine and made him help with setting the table instead.
Vessel and IV showered them in compliments after dinner, going on about how they should cook together more often given how good the food had tasted. The other two just blushed as II reached out for III‘s hand and squeezed it, mouthing a silent ‚thank you‘ at him. As IV and Vessel dutifully cleared the table III nudged II to get his attention.
„They didn’t touch the salt once and normally they always do, guess I gotta believe your weird little saying now.“
II just laughed as he took another sip from his wine, already feeling a bit warm and fuzzy, if that was the wine’s or his partner’s fault was debatable.
When IV and Vessel had deemed the dishes done (they had been rinsed off and just piled in the sink for now) they returned. IV had a plate full of cookies in hand for dessert and Vessel had opened another wine bottle for them swiftly filling their glasses once more before they migrated to the coffee table instead. III was slowly getting impatient, wanting to finally hand the others his present. Of course they had said that they ‚won’t do presents‘ but they all knew that had been a lie and gotten something for each other anyways. It happened every year and by now no one was surprised anymore.
III had intentionally sat down on the long part of the couch, now ready to bolt and get his present any second. He could tell IV was getting excited as well, his leg restlessly bouncing as he tried to focus on the conversation II and Vessel were having. When the both guitarists made eye contact they silently agreed to take action, IV clearing his throat to get his partners attention.
„So I made each of you guys something.“ The guitarist smiled as he produced three little packages from seemingly nowhere and handed them out to each of his boyfriends. The packages clearly held something soft, which was probably the reason their wrapping job looked more than poorly. IV had tried his best though, wrapping a ribbon around them which held a tag with their respective numerals and a few doodles on them.
III had torn into his package the fastest, gasping when he held up a crocheted garland made out of various repeated spiderweb patterns. The bassist had excitedly squealed and quickly made his way to press a kiss to IV’s lips in thanks, rambling how he would put it up above his desk so he could always look at it when he worked.
II was the next one to open his present, also holding up a garland, which was made out of different coloured flowers and a variety of different shaped leaves, the colour scheme of course matching the one of his room, which he promptly exclaimed excitedly. He also leaned towards IV to press a kiss to his lips, which was a bit awkward with Vessel sitting in between them but they couldn’t be bothered. Vessel had prompted III to let him get a closer look at the stitching of the webs, so detangling once everyone was done had been a kind of funny situation.
Vessel opened his last, gently undoing the ribbon and tape mindful not to damage IV‘s hard work. IV had also made a garland for the singer, attached to it were varying grey and white stars some smaller some bigger in size. The singer pressed the item to his chest with a big smile, already thinking about where to put it before leaning over to IV to also press a kiss to his lips. Vessel also whispered a soft „thank you“ against the guitarist’s lips which made IV blush.
II was the next one to distribute his gifts for the others and again III was the first one to open his. The bassist held up a chef’s apron with quite possibly the ugliest pattern any of them had ever seen but he seemed more than delighted by it, the colour palette was also a thing for itself as it certainly clashed. His excitement only increased when he noticed that it also had weirdly extravagant ruffles at the edges.
„Oh thank you! I’m definitely wearing that when I make breakfast tomorrow.“ III exclaimed as he got up to sit next to the drummer now, wrapping him in his arms and pressing a few kisses to the II‘s cheek.
IV was next unwrapping a new humidifier and a few of his favourite essential oils. The humidifier looked way too fancy, especially compared to his old one that had broken a few weeks ago, having various different settings and illuminating the vapour in a way that made it look like a little flame. The guitarist just grinned at II blowing him a kiss as opened the box and got to reading the instructions.
Vessel unwrapped a new set of cups, he was always complaining about how his favourite mug he used in the morning would still be in the dishwasher the next day if somebody forgot to turn it on over night, so II had just gotten him an additional pair. There has also been a few packets of his favourite tea and a little jar of local honey.
„Thank you, darling.“ Vessel smiled as he pressed a kiss to the drummer’s lips.
Now it was Vessel’s turn, his gifts always were a bit different. This year they were simple envelopes he handed out to his boyfriends. All of them were a dark blue almost black colour, wax seals holding them close and once again only distinguishable by the different Roman numerals written onto them. IV opened his first, pulling out a neatly folded letter which clearly had the singer’s squiggled handwriting on it. As the guitarist quickly scanned the words his eyes became brighter and brighter with excitement and maybe even a few tears. When IV finished reading he folded the letter again, safely put it onto the coffee table and flung himself in Vessel’s arms.
„I would love to do that, oh I can’t wait to show you this new app I found. It helps you identify plants! It’s gonna be a game changer, remember how we always struggled with that??“
The singer just laughed almost as excited about IV‘s present as the guitarist himself, pulling his boyfriend closer by the hips. II and III had just watched them with smiles on their faces, waiting for IV to elaborate what exactly Vessel had planned for the two of them.
„We’re going on a long hike again!“ IV happily announced as he detangled himself from Vessel but kept sitting halfway in his lap. III and II smiled even wider now, III instantly tasking IV with taking more pictures this time and II already listing a few snacks he would make them.
III was next ripping open the envelope but handling the letter itself as careful as possible. He also scanned the lines, his grin becoming wider and wider before he excitedly pressed a kiss to Vessel’s lips. Admittedly it was more teeth than lips because both of them were smiling that hard but who cared, they certainly didn’t.
He carefully put the letter on the coffee table next to IV‘s before telling the others that Vessel had promised to take him to his favourite vintage clothing market once it stopped around their area again. The singer had written down the dates they would be able to make it there, considering their touring and meeting schedules. Both II and IV were excited to see what III would come home with and maybe he would even get Vessel to browse something else than just the vinyl section this time.
II was the last one to open his letter, taking his time with reading the carefully chosen words Vessel had written. His expression remained neutral until he put down the letter and made eye contact with the singer. He gently pulled Vessel closer by his nape, resting their foreheads together as he closed his eyes and whispered „thank you, love.“
Vessel was practically beaming with joy, closing the remaining gap between them to press their lips together. Their sweet moment was cut short by a prying bassist though.
„Stop making out we wanna know what you got, little drummer boy!“
II purposefully ignored that III had called him little once more, separating from Vessel with a sigh but interlocking their hands instead to stop the singer from pouting and mumbling something about ‚romance being dead‘.
„Vessel is taking me to that restaurant I’ve been wanting to try since forever.“ II admitted with a shy grin and slightly rosy cheeks. He was surprised Vessel had remembered him mentioning it but on the other hand his boyfriend was a fantastic listener.(and maybe II had talked a lot about it too.)
IV instantly remembered hearing the drummer rant about how interesting their menu looked but how it was basically impossible to get a reservation. Adding that they were spending their time touring, recording new tracks or at least practicing it became even more tricky. Of course Vessel had somehow managed to get them a table, probably because he knew a guy who also knew a guy or something like that. The guitarist grinned at his partners feeling warmth bubble in his chest that wasn’t just due to the wine.
III declared that now it was his turn to finally gift the others his present and he was so excited he was practically vibrating on the spot. He had kept his present in his room not wanting the others to guess what it was before it was his turn to give it to them. (Yes that definitely made sense) That’s why he was currently sprinting up the stairs to his room to retrieve it, II hadn’t been opposed to a little break putting on another record in the meantime as Vessel refilled their glasses. IV had just sat on the couch patiently waiting for his boyfriends to return as he read the manual from his new humidifier.
Vessel handed the guitarist his glass of wine once more and IV swore if this kept going he might be a bit more than tipsy soon but who could refuse Vessel when he was smiling at him that softly? Certainly not IV.
II returned just to plop himself down between IV and Vessel and downing his glass with one gulp. IV had to stifle a laugh at that especially when he saw Vessel’s shocked face, one did not disrespect the poor man’s expensive wine like that!
But it was quickly forgotten, at least for now, when III returned with one singular box in hand, it was a bit wider than a shoebox but other than that there wasn’t much to say about it. The bassist expectantly placed it on II and Vessel’s laps before sitting down next to the singer and motioning for them to open it. They promptly followed the instructions, lifting what seemed to be a photobook out of it.
„You all know I’ve been photographing a lot recently and I never showed you any of them, that’s why-„ he motioned to the book „they’re all in there, mostly from tour because fuck we’ve been touring nonstop this year but there’s some from home as well… I-I hope you like it?“ III awkwardly scratched his neck as his boyfriends still stared at the hefty book in front of them.
„We always figured you didn’t want to show us.“ IV explained, picking up the nervous energy rolling off of III. „I think that’s why we’re a bit shocked right now, love but this is wonderful, thank you.“ II and Vessel also added thank yous having noticed how nervous III had gotten the longer they had just stared from the book to him and back.
„You haven’t even looked at them yet you sillies!! Go on open it! Some pages are themed but to be honest some are just collages of random stuff.“ III smiled as he motioned for them to get on with it, but still a tang of nervousness was clear in his tone.
The first page was simple, just bold numbers to indicate which year the pictures were taken during. The next few pages where various collages of the others during sightseeing or going out to dinner, them just posing sometimes making grimaces and sometimes not even aware of a picture being taken. It was mostly II and IV though and a couple selfies III had attempted, Vessel often shying away from the camera as soon as he had notice III had had it in hand.
They were certainly cute pictures though, all smiles and silly faces which made the singer smile fondly, until Vessel turned the page. His face dropped as he was suddenly met with a bigger format picture being the only one on the whole double page depicting himself. II and IV audibly gasped at it as they laid eyes on it, they had no idea how III had managed to take it without Vessel noticing but he somehow he had.
Vessel looked straight out of heaven on it, his hair ruffled but not tangled, no mask neither stage nor cloth, which he sometimes liked to wear in public, was hiding his face. It was just him and it captured him so perfectly II could’ve proposed to III for taking it right then and there. They had never managed to get a picture of him that looked this relaxed and natural before, the singer always becoming uneasy and awkward when he noticed a camera being pointed at him. In the picture Vessel wasn’t looking directly at the camera, rather at something behind it. When IV pointed that out III just smiled.
„He was looking at you two.“
Vessel who had been oddly quiet drew in a shaky breath at that, as if the words had suddenly startled him out of his frozenness. The singer kept staring at the picture in front of him, eyes turning more glossy as he gently mapped out the corners of it with his index finger.
„That’s how I look?“ he breathed and that was when IV also swore he could’ve proposed to III in that exact moment because Vessel had sounded like he believed it. Like he was realising that all of the compliments and soft words of his partners had been true all along.
„Yes that’s how you look. III captured it perfectly.“ II whispered, afraid to talk too loudly and disrupt the fragile moment.
Vessel looked up at that, making eye contact with III whose eyes had also turned teary and just pulled the bassist into a short kiss, thanking him at the end with a shy smile. The bassist put his arm around him to which Vessel instantly rested his head against the taller man’s shoulder, breathing out a sigh.
„Wait until you see the next page.“ III smiled as he softly turned it. This one was nothing compared to the last, having a certain chaotic energy to it, with various pictures of different sizes filling up the space. In all of them a figure, who was undoubtedly Vessel and which wasn’t clearly in focus could be seen. In some of them there was a second person with him, depending on their height either II or IV. What stood out though was the person in focus, always either II or IV making heart eyes at the unfocused schemes.
One depicted II preparing breakfast, cutting up fruits but longingly staring at a hooded figure which was holding a cup and leaning against the counter next to him. It had undoubtedly been an early morning, the sun not quite shining yet as they both looked more asleep than awake but there was a certain brightness in II‘s eyes that were focussed on Vessel.
There was even one picture III had set up a timer for and taken of himself, gazing at Vessel who was sitting on his piano bench. The singer‘s head hang low, lost in thought as he played and his face obscured by the hood he had been wearing.
The next pages were similar, just focusing on II and IV as well, always featuring at least one picture III had taken with a timer so he would be included as well.
They were all speechless after those, having never seen how lovestruck they appeared when they looked at their partners as well as having never seen how they in turn looked at them. A shocked silence penetrated the room as they couldn’t quite believe their eyes.
„How did you take all of those.“ II whispered at some point, being the first to find his words again.
„It was not hard you know, I could’ve taken way more you always look at each other like that.“ III commented, voice soft as he held Vessel a bit closer to his chest.
One picture had once again gotten a page for itself, admittedly it was a bit blurry because IV had been moving in it but it was difficult to take pictures of people when they were laughing that hard. The angle was almost giving the picture a mild fisheye effect, distorting IV‘s features a bit but it was clear that he was gazing joyfully at the camera, or to be more precise the person taking the picture. IV was laughing so hard his cheeks were squishing up against his eyes, their natural hoodedness making them appear even smaller and the grin even wider. It was immensely cute, showing IV in a way that was so natural and carefree. Just a lovestruck man laughing at his boyfriend, who had definitely told him a stupid joke. IV turned red when the others kept going on about how handsome his smile was and how incredibly cute the picture was.
II turned the page and gasped because now it was his turn to have a singular bigger format picture of himself staring back at him. Or well to be precise it wasn’t staring, II had his eyes closed on it. It was a closer shot of the drummer’s face being gently cradled by Vessel’s hands. The singer himself wasn’t in the picture except for his ring adorned and already painted hands. It had been taken shortly before a ritual, on a day where II had been way too worked up. Up until the singer had walked up to him and cupped his cheeks, just holding him in order to ground him and drain some of the nervousness bubbling in the drummer’s chest. Even though II had already been wearing his mask it was clear that he was smiling beneath it, utterly relaxed in the hold of his boyfriend. III somehow managed to perfectly capture II‘s soft moments in between his perfectionist „I need everything perfect and working“ stage pre rituals.
„Remember that day?“ Vessel asked, holding his hand out for II to take. The drummer just nodded as he accepted it and took a shaky breath to be able to talk.
„I wouldn’t have been able to play if it hadn’t been for that moment.“ II whispered. „Thank you for capturing it III.“ and the drummer meant it, he had thought about the softness and comfort of that specific situation a lot and now he got to experience it again through the bassist’s present. He smiled at III who seemed to be beaming with pride, being more than happy for preserving such a sweet memory for his partners.
When IV turned the page they were met with one III had written „SLEEP token“ on in bold letters and with way too many exclamation marks surrounding it. One of the pages was entirely dedicated to II‘s various napping positions and places. From him being curled up on his drum stool, somehow not falling off as he napped with his head against his knee, to him leaning against the foot of a table on the tour bus. In all of them someone had thrown either a blanket or a hoodie over him in an attempt to provide at least a bit of comfort.
Vessel had easily found a new favourite picture of II when he noticed one being printed in a bigger format once more. The drummer was half asleep resting against Vessel after a show that had clearly been more than exhausting for him as IV removed his dark paint for him. IV and Vessel were joking around, both still in their own costumes minus the masks which made their big grins visible. Maybe Vessel was imagining things but he swore he saw a little smile on II‘s face as well when he took a closer look.
He nudged the smaller man next to him who had had no idea that the picture even existed until this moment and whispered.
„I like that one.“
II grinned and pointed at one on the other page. „I like that one.“
IV also grinned when he noticed what the drummer was pointing at. A rare occurrence on tour when they had gotten a hotel room to stay at for a night. Vessel was asleep, a few smudges of black paint from the day before still visible on his cheek. The singer looked like he was copypasted straight out of a renaissance painting, the sheets around him in a tangle and a blanket artfully tucked around his naked torso. He looked peacefully asleep, his face soft and relaxed as his lips were lightly parted. It could’ve easily been something out of a photoshoot, until one noticed Vessel’s boyfriends on his left and right, still in their pyjamas and making silly faces. II sticking out his tongue at the camera and IV grinning as he held up bunny ears behind Vessel’s head.
„I’m glad you put that one in, III. I thought Vessel might never see how pretty he looked that day.“ IV smiled as he made eye contact with the bassist, mouthing a ‚thank you‘ at him which might’ve made III blush.
Vessel just shook his head a bit overwhelmed with the softness of the situation and the thoughtfulness of III. Of course the bassist had picked up that Vessel didn’t like having pictures taken, but maybe the singer was slowly changing his mind the longer he got to look at the ones his boyfriend had taken of him.
II turned the page the next one focussing on them being at home or to be more precise then writing at home. There were various pictures of the others brooding over notes and sheet music together, the table between them practically overflowing with paper, snacks, various different drum sticks and plectrums. It was chaos but somehow it still had a calm vibe to it, IV intently listening as II was in the middle of explaining something with his hands. Vessel could be seen in the background grinning at the other two as he sat at his piano, watching from a distance.
Again there were three bigger pictures spread in between the smaller ones, one of each of them sitting on their own and writing. II wearing headphones connected to his sampling pad and sitting at his way too organised desk with one of his infamous checklists and an overly neat notebook next to it.
IV sitting on his bed, an acoustic guitar in his lap and a whole pencil case of different coloured pens next to him which had clearly been used on the various loose papers spread around him in a circle. The guitarist swore his colour coded writing system made sense and was more than useful even though the others kept teasing him about it.
Lastly one of Vessel sitting crisscross on the floor on one of the sitting pillows II had gotten him last year as a Christmas present because the singer insisted that he could write best while sitting on the floor and they had all gotten tired of him whining about his back hurting. He had an electric guitar in his lap and a little keyboard in front of him along with few scribbled notes, his favourite mug was set next to him, steam curling up from the tea IV had brought him earlier.
„Oh those are so lovely.“ Vessel was transfixed by the pictures not even looking up as he talked to his boyfriend.
„I didn’t even notice you took that of me.“ II whispered. III was slowly getting flustered by his boyfriends showering him in compliments about the pictures, a small dust of red now ever present on his cheeks.
„Thank you, we’re almost through though, I had to save costs by keeping track of how much film I used, they’re quite expensive to get developed…“
II instantly noted that now he knew exactly what to get III for his birthday. (No he was not planning to build his boyfriend a darkroom what are you on about, that definitely wasn’t his plan…There were more than enough possible rooms for it in the house though and you can’t blame him for wanting those to be of use.)
„Well I’ll gladly pay to get them developed if they all turn out this gorgeous, love.“ IV noted to which the others nodded along. All of them were still kind of taken aback by the present, II was already planning on looking through the book again once he woke up in the morning and he knew his partners were too. Vessel was trying to find the right words to express how much he cherished III‘s gift and how insanely thankful he felt for having a partner like him. He was still lost in thought when IV turned the page to the last one.
It was a picture of II, Vessel and IV all cuddled up on the couch, wrapped in blankets and clearly asleep and III had attempted drawing himself next to them with hearts instead of eyes. It was proper adorable because the bassist had also drawn an unnecessary amount of hearts all around the picture.
The situation quickly escalated when Vessel finally pulled himself out of his thoughts and more or less launched himself at III in an attempt to hug him (which had started more as a tackle to be honest). The tackle quickly evolved into a tangle of limbs as it turned into a group hug. II and IV whispering words of praise and ‚thank you’s as III beamed with joy.
They quickly arranged themselves in a way for everyone to be able to breathe again, even though II wouldn’t complain being suffocated by his lovers he still valued his oxygen. IV pulled II next to him, draping his arm over the smaller man’s shoulder and handing him his wine glass before taking his own in hand again as well. II thanked him with a kiss on the cheek as they relaxed back into the couch.
Next to II, III was still hugging Vessel, who in turn hugged the picture book close to his chest. After a few more minutes III deemed the position too uncomfortable, carefully easing Vessel’s grip on the book and placing it on the coffee table to be able to properly cuddle with the singer. He made sure to tuck both of them in with one of IV‘s crocheted blankets, a project the guitarist had started and finished the last time he had been sick.
„Do you want your glass of wine as well, sugar?“ III asked as he was about to take a sip of his own, Vessel nodding and accepting his with a smile. The bassist proceeded to lean back lifting his right arm so Vessel would be able to cuddle up to him, well not properly they had to keep sitting upright, both holding beverages in hand but it was comfy nonetheless.
In the meantime, IV had put on a different vinyl the old one having just stopped. When he returned to the couch once more, he didn’t sit down again next to II, instead he held his hand out for the drummer to take.
„I promised you a dance, didn’t I?“ IV smiled, when II looked at him with slight confusion and made a little bow which got a chuckle out of II.
„Thought you would never ask.“ The drummer playfully rolled his eyes as he took IV‘s hand and let himself be guided into the middle of their living room. IV took the lead putting his hand on the drummer’s waist, who in turn placed his on the guitarist’s upper arm as their other hands stayed interlocked. IV had chosen a vinyl specifically with three-quarter measured songs on it so they could dance a waltz. Now that they had emptied their wine it did become apparent again how much they had had to drink and he didn’t want to overestimate their abilities. II counted them in and soon they fell into a comfortable rhythm, moving through the living room.
And if II stepped on IV‘s foot by accident then the guitarist didn’t mention it, too caught up with grinning at his boyfriend. They certainly wouldn’t be able to continue for too long, dancing like that was exhausting, but II already looked forward to just swaying from side to side in IV‘s arms.
Vessel and III watched their partners spin, more or less elegantly, through the room with fond smiles.
„Thank you III. They loved it and I did too. You really outdid yourself with this gift.“
„It was a pleasure.“ III smiled as Vessel leaned in to press a kiss to his lips. It tasted sweet and airy like the alcohol they had had and III couldn’t get enough of it. He blindly put his now empty glass on the coffee table to be able to cup the singer’s cheeks and deepen the kiss. Vessel tried to protest not knowing where to put his own glass but the bassist quickly took care of that as well, sighing when he did have to separate from Vessel at last, one glass he could manage but he didn’t want to accidentally break both of them. As soon as all breakable items were safely put away III‘s attention was back on his boyfriend. Vessel had leaned back into the corner of the couch grinning at III and beckoning him closer. III was hovering above him in a matter of seconds also grinning until Vessel had pulled him down by the shoulders. The bassist produced a tiny shriek, now suddenly lying on Vessel. Their chests were pressed together and III swore he could feel the other’s heart beat.
„May I kiss you, darling?“ Vessel asked as he tucked a strand of hair behind III‘s ear.
„Oh you’re so cheesy stop it!“ III giggled. „But yes you may, sugar.“
Vessel didn’t need to be told twice, pulling III closer by cupping his cheeks and pressing their lips together once more. The bassist hummed against his lips, having already craved the taste of them again. Both of them knew this wouldn’t lead to anything more, this was about enjoying being close to each other and trying to show the other what they couldn’t put into words right now, which was a lot given the whirlwind of emotions coursing through their veins.
As III and Vessel were lazily exchanging kisses II and IV had also stopped dancing after IV had declared that he was getting too dizzy. II had pouted at that, feeling no less disoriented but still wanting to feel close to his partner.
„I’ll just change it to some slow music instead, okay?“
„Good because I would’ve hardly counted that as the dance you promised me.“ II protested.
„Well we can’t have that.“ IV leaned down to peck II‘s cheek and rushed to switch the vinyl. II didn’t let go of his hand though, simply trailing behind the guitarist, not quite wanting to let go of IV. As the guitarist was busy with the record player, II slung his arms around IV‘s waist and rested his forehead between the other’s shoulder blades.
„You’re awfully clingy right now.“ IV grinned as he chose an album he deemed fitting, this time one of Vessel’s vinyl market finds that had been more than worth its price.
„You complaining or what?“ II grumbled against IV‘s back, his voice muffled to the point his boyfriend could barely understand him but he had no intent on letting IV go anytime. The guitarist turned around in II‘s arms as the quiet music began to ring through the room.
„As if I could ever complain about my pretty boyfriend wanting to be close to me.“ IV grinned as II wrapped his arms around the other’s neck to slowly sway from side to side.
„Pretty?“ II mouthed as he stared up at IV with big eyes.
„Did we just spend the last hour looking at different pictures? Because the ones I saw were definitely of my boyfriends being pretty and gorgeous and handsome.“
„Thank you IV!“ III exclaimed from the couch and winking at IV. The bassist was now lying in Vessel’s arms, his head resting on the singer’s chest as Vessel ran his hand through III‘s hair. Vessel was definitely blushing a bit at IV‘s words, not having missed how the guitarist had intentionally addressed all of them.
As IV turned his attention back to II, after he had blown III a kiss, the drummer just pulled him impossibly close, resting his head against the guitarist’s chest. IV pressed a kiss to the crown of his head before resting his head against II‘s and closing his eyes.
„You’re also pretty, I love the picture in which you’re writing.“
„Oh thank you.“ IV whispered back.
„Just like a little schoolgirl who just learned what highlighters are.“ II teased, which earned him an overdramatic gasp from IV and snickering that could be heard from the couch.
„See I thought you liked being teased, who of the both of us is the one with the degradation kink.“ II deadpanned without missing a beat and with a sly smile. After a moment of silence III burst out laughing and Vessel’s giggles rang through the room as well. IV just looked shocked as he crossed his arms.
„I can’t believe this!“ IV laughed as he shook his head. „All of you ganging up on me like that!“
„Again, normally you don’t have a problem with that one, honey.“ II just grinned as he started swaying him and IV from side to side again.
„I swear if I didn’t love you to death with your stupid pretty eyes and your cute smile…“ IV tried to defend himself but quickly started rambling.
„What then, honey?“ II innocently batted his eyelashes at the taller guitarist.
„Then… Oh I don’t fucking know just kiss me.“ IV huffed with a grin which in turn made II laugh as well as he pulled the guitarist closer to make their lips meet. III whistled at them from the couch to which II mumbled something against IV‘s lips and showed III the finger without even thinking about letting the guitarist go. He placed his hand at the base of the guitarist before he pulled IV even closer to deepen their kiss. The guitarist certainly didn’t complain, producing a little sigh as he became putty in the hands of his boyfriend.
Their bodies swayed to the music once more when II pulled back to gaze lovingly at IV once more. And maybe IV was swaying a little harder and smiling a little wider than before.
——
After the record had ended II and IV had joined the others on the couch, comfortable silence, only interrupted by occasionally whispered ‚I love you’s, filled the room.
Vessel and III had made space for their boyfriends, the bassist was still lying on top of him but Vessel had extended one of his arms to make room for II, who in turn was pulled flush against IV‘s chest. In some way, none of them could truly explain how, they had tangled their legs together as well to keep warm.
„II, love, please let me go for a second.“ IV whispered at the now half asleep drummer, who in turn just grumbled and unwillingly shifted his weight so IV could move. The guitarist returned shortly later, carrying 2 duvets and quickly tucking his boyfriends in. II‘s cold feet had become too cold even for IV and there was no way they would get the drummer to move now that he was almost asleep so sleeping on the couch it was, it wasn’t the first time this had happened.
„Sleeping on the couch it is?“ Vessel yawned as he carefully tucked the blanket beneath III‘s chin.
„No way we’re getting them into bed anymore.“ IV smiled at the now lightly snoring II.
„Oi! I’m not asleep yet!“ III protested which didn’t prove his point though because the bassist didn’t even bother to open his eyes.
„Darling, you just woke up because IV moved to get us blankets, you have been asleep for at least half an hour.“ Vessel grinned.
„Yeah yeah whatever, IV turn off the lights and then come back before I fall asleep again I need my goodnight kiss.“ III demanded, even making the effort of opening one eye to glare at IV.
The guitarist chuckled as he turned off the record player and rushed through the living room, using his phone as a flashlight, to turn off all of the different fairy lights III had insisted on putting up. In no time he was beneath the blankets as well, pressing a kiss to III‘s forehead before settling down behind II once more. The bassist just hummed, already half asleep again.
„Ves too.“ and if the room hadn’t been that quiet Vessel could’ve never made out what III had said but he did. The singer bent down kissing the bassist’s forehead who didn’t even bother to hum this time. The singer was grinning though, III was just way too adorable when he was this sleepy.
Silence filled the now dark room, except for a gentle patter of rain against the window which was slowly lulling both IV and Vessel to sleep as well.
„And where’s my goodnight kiss?“ Vessel whispered as to not wake up their sleeping (or almost sleeping) partners. IV smiled as he pushed himself up to kiss him, their lips colliding in a short but sweet way that left IV feeling even more dizzy than the waltzing with II had.
„I love you, Ves.“ IV mumbled as he made himself comfortable, pulling II closer once more and also pressing a kiss to the base of the drummer’s neck.
„I love you too, IV.“ Vessel rested his hand in the guitarist’s hair, gently scratching his scalp and twisting a few strands from time to time to help the guitarist fall asleep. At some point Theo had decided to join the four of them as well, now cuddled up between II and Vessel and quietly purring. The sound relaxed IV even further and he could slowly feel himself drifting away, mumbling a goodnight to Vessel just in time before he passed out.
As the rain pattered on Vessel felt himself getting more tired and tired, surrounded by nothing but warmth and love, could you blame him? He was eternally grateful for the presents his partners had gifted him and even more for having them in his life. When Vessel finally felt sleep creeping up on him he held onto IV, II and III like they had been the greatest gift he had ever gotten and in some sense that was true.