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"Dang, how do I do this..." The Rover mutters, looking at the pile of crushed flowers and stems in his palms. He had gathered a variety of bright colored plants, including poppies, lilies, and roses, and attempted to weave them together. "Nature's a fickle thing; I really thought it would work out."
"It's alright, Uncle Rover! Let's start from square one. Can you show me your flowers?" Encore asks, already preparing to assist the Rover with his craftsmanship skills.
After several hours of trial and error, the Rover manages to create a single flower crown, which he proudly holds up for everyone to see. It's made up of a variety of different colorful flowers, with petals of vibrant blacks, whites, and greys, and a smattering of greenery woven in for good measure.
"There you have it! This is the ultimate flower crown, ready for any occasion." The Rover smiles, satisfied with his creation.
"Encore, help me bring these to Aalto. We gotta surprise him." The Rover gestures to his masterpiece with excitement in his eyes. "This is gonna be the best birthday present ever."
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Aalto's smile turns soft, a small blush covering his features, and the Rover can't take his eyes off the other.
"I like it."
"Really?" The Rover tilts his head. "Are you sure? It’s not too good…"
"Because you thought about it… For me."
Aalto is cute. The Rover wants to tell him.
"And...?"
The Aalto hesitates, averting his gaze. "I'll try it."
"Mmm, perfect." The Rover's chest fills with pride. "You'll wear it? For me?"
Aalto nods.
"Okay, good. I'll be sure to make more in the future. Thank you." The Rover smiles, satisfied.
The Rover gently brushes Aalto’s hair out of his face, gently removing any stray strands, before placing the crown carefully upon the other's head, the black and white colors matching Aalto's own outfit.
The Rover is speechless.
"It matches my clothes, don't you think?"
The Rover can't seem to find his words. "Y-yeah. Yeah."
The other man blinks. "Is that a good thing?"
"Yeah."
"Why do you sound like a broken record?"
Aalto's tone is flat, but the Rover knows there's a hint of fondness there.
"... Because I'm in awe of your beauty."
The other laughs, light and breathy. "No need to exaggerate."
The Rover can't hide his joy. He steps forward, pulling the Aalto close, and kisses his forehead.
Aalto's head is in the Rover's chest, the Rover's embrace firm and comforting, and the Rover holds him like he's afraid that he might slip away if he lets go.
"Can we… Just stay like this for now?" Aalto murmurs.
The Rover strokes the back of the other's neck, his movements gentle.
"Yes. We can."