Work Text:
Too loud.
It's all too much.
Chatting fills up the very busy halls of the Oletus Manor, though the day is coming to an end. The dawning sun leaving behind an orange to red tone as the light shined upon the grave keeper, who currently was busy holding his ear close to the wooden door – basically just eavesdropping, waiting for the commotion to quiet down like always.
But this time the noise stayed much longer, lingers even when Andrew put his hands over his ears. He couldn't stand it, yet he guessed this was to be expected. Today was no ordinary day it seemed, a new visitor had arrived at the manor this morning and all the visitors, well– they welcomed him with much more than open arms, it almost felt like a celebration.
Andrew couldn't even remember his name nor his face, not like he cared that much. He went along with his day like normal, like planned. He was supposed to have a match today but that went down the drain, new accommodations had to be made – fine, better for Andrew. Then he was supposed to take care of cleaning the manor's entrance but that was already done because apparently he wasn't deemed fit enough to make it presentable for the new guest – Okay, whatever that was supposed to mean. And lastly for the night, what Andrew always did, was spend some time in the manor's garden and maybe take care of some of the greenery that Emma might have missed.
But the usual time he would normally go at was past due a long time ago, the other survivors still wide awake as he hears a few groups chat around. They'd normally be asleep by now, and Andrew would've had his alone time but no, he could already feel his eyes drooping ever so slightly. His whole day was a disaster and now he won't even be able to do what he was looking forward to. A shame really. All that for what? A new guy.
All was well, there was always tomorrow after all. Tomorrow, it'll be right back onto the old schedule. At least that was what Andrew hoped– or even prayed for that night. It was nearing 1am and people were still awake, he should've just given this up a long time ago and went to back instead of depriving himself of sleep and wasting time.
He sighed, putting away his boots back at the front of his door as he tried to make himself comfortable. Though he had been here for so long, every night was still always a bit of a hassle as he still had trouble trusting these people, and especially with a new guy around that seemed to be the light of the party it made him feel just a bit more uneasy.
Wishing himself a goodnight, he closed his eyes. He'll tend to the garden tomorrow for sure..
⩇⩇:⩇⩇
"Are you sure you don't want more? That was so little." Emma tilted her head, most of the treats left untouched on the tray she was holding. "Please, that.. that was more than enough. Thank you so much, Miss Woods." Andrew tried to force a smile on his face, clutching the piece of candy tightly in his gloved hands. He didn't want it – though he liked sweets, he felt a little guilty accepting it from Emma though he'd have also felt guilty not accepting it.
His mind knew no rest.
"I see then.. You're welcome! I'll see you around?" She slightly turned around, still looking at Andrew whom quietly nodded. She was an angel for sure, in some ways at least. Emma treated Andrew with such kindness, he couldn't help but somehow believe it was all an act. People usually ignored him, or treated him like the freak show he was. It still hurt, even if he stopped seeking approval from other people a long time ago. In the end, every companionship you made doesn't matter – we all just end up buried beneath the earth, beneath the people we met and beneath the memories that were made.
Putting that piece of candy inside of his side pocket, he grabbed his shovel as he made his way down onto the main floor. He had no match today but that was how it was supposed to go. Walking past a few somewhat friendly faces, he tried to make his way into the garden. With every survivor being busy in some way, the garden must be mostly empty this noon. Though Andrew would miss out on the melancholic mood that is the middle of the night. His plans again came to a stop as he felt a tap on his shoulders.
Unintentionally tensing up immediately, he tried to relax his body as he then slowly turned around. He felt his heart sink as he stared into an unfamiliar face which smiled back at him.
Jesus, help me.
"Oh wow, I haven't seen YOU around here yesterday! May I know your name, sir?" His voice had a playful tone to it, matching his open smile that bared his small fangs. His blonde locks framing his face nicely, a very boy-ish look and a very young and lively atmosphere that lingered around him, had Andrew almost gasping for words. He usually was very nervous talking to people but never shy enough that words got stuck in his throat, yet here he couldn't utter a word. Just yet.
"Sir?" Sir? Did Andrew seem that old already? He agreed he was never really a looker, his tired and almost always worried scowl he carried on his face scared off most people, his quite fragile build wasn't sought after and most importantly his albinism which brought more than enough problems alongside just insecurities.
He gulped. "The name's Kreiss. A.. Andrew Kreiss, I mean." He teared his gaze off the other, deciding to scan the other's attire instead. A fireman, huh, well he had seen crazier people at this manor – he's positively surprised. A seemingly normal guy. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Kreiss–" "Oh please, there's no need for honorifics.." The other stepped back a little, his visible eyebrow jumping upwards before going back to his usual expression. "Alright then, Kreiss. My name is Florian, Florian Brand. I arrived here yesterday, I kinda still have no clue what's going on if I'm being honest."
Andrew felt his shoulders relax a little, as Florian let go of his hand after he was busy shaking it wildly for the introduction. "That– That's just natural, I'd say. No need to worry.." Except for the absolute monsters that also house in this establishment. "To be frank, I must haste. S-Sorry for cutting this conversation short!" Bluntly, Andrew tried to flee from the scene but Florian had other plans as he gripped harshly back onto the shoulder that he tapped nicely a few minutes ago.
Andrew gasped at the sudden bit of force, looking surprised at Florian who carried a similar facial expression. "Oh, m-my sincerest apologies! I didn't mean to harm you, I was just.." A nervous smile now adorned his features, Andrew seeing his gaze flicker across the room as if looking for an answer. "You smell really good, Kreiss." What? "Pardon me?" His eyebrows moved into a frown, an unimpressed frown at that. "Ah, excuse my language. I meant as in.. you have a very sweet scent on you – almost like candy." Isn't that technically the same thing?
Growing a little annoyed, Andrew almost wanted to just turn on his heel and walk away, preferably never speaking this Brand again but.. something in him was intrigued. Though irritating him, Brand seemed like a decent person. He seemed happy go lucky, was nice to Andrew and hadn't called him a monster just yet. That's better than majority of the people Andrew has met in his life.
"I may have some sweets on me.." He could basically see the sparkles in Brand's eyes. "I wasn't planning on eating it anyway.. So, I suppose you may have it," He suggest, adding a nervous "I-If you want it, of course." right after. Andrew's face felt like it was heating up slowly, probably from slight embarrassment. Social interactions don't get the best side out of him. Florian happily accepted the offer, his smile brighter than ever.
"Just.. make sure to not touch me that harshly again, okay?... or anyone for that matter." Muttering the last part to himself, Andrew looks at Florian who nodded. "Of course, I usually don't touch strangers in the first place – excluding my job.. but you suddenly walking off made me panic a little, haha!" Now that that scene played back in his head, it was somewhat understandable.
He forgave Florian, he seemed like a nice guy..
⩇⩇:⩇⩇
Someone being a nice guy won't help you shit when it eventually got you killed. Days have passed since their first meeting, Andrew had small yet friendly interactions with Florian every now and then but earlier today was their first match together and it went horrible to, say the least. Starting off with a terrorshock from a random at 5 ciphers remaining which was great (not), Andrew already knew this match was going down to shit. Already being exhausted, it was almost over when Florian must've miscalculated his timing and completely blocked off Andrew from entering the hospital and got him killed right then and there.
Andrew couldn't believe it as he looked at Florian, whom is standing in the distance, clueless yet seemingly extremely embarrassed as he immediately turned around and ran away from the scene of the crime. Andrew just looked after the culprit and sighed. A lot more cruel stuff happened from his other teammates that resulted in him getting farmed off that chair, and now he was back at the manor. His legs hurt, shaking from pain as he tried to make his way up the many stairs to his room.
His teammates and Florian were probably still in that match, fighting for their lives but Andrew couldn't think much of that right now. His whole body ached, too much work for his body that could handle the bare minimum only. He just wanted to close his eyes and doze off right then and there, and honestly maybe he should. His steady breathing grew louder as the world around him began to fade into nothingness.
Knock! Knock! Knock!
"Kreiss? Are you in there?"
A young voice called out to him from the other side of the door, and Andrew sighed, maybe a little too loud as Florian took that as an invitation to let himself inside. "Who said you could enter?" He unintentionally let that slip, not liking how rude he could be sometimes as that was not the proper way of treating people. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to intrude, I got too excited hearing you." The slightly sad smile on his face seemed genuine, as he looked down onto Andrew who's still laying in his bed – truly too unbothered and tired to even move a muscle right now.
"Why are you here, Brand? Did you guys win?" Florian sighed at that. "Unfortunately, no. I did come here though to apologize for my mistake, I did not mean to block the entrance off for you.." Looking down at his brown boots, he bit at his fingernails, clearly ashamed of his actions. He moved closer towards the bed. "I was merely trying to block it off for the hunter but I got distracted and sent the airbag too early.. I got you killed! I'm sorry, Kreiss, please forgive me!"
Feeling awkward being looked down upon, Andrew sat up in his bed, his gaze traveled throughout the small space. "It's.." He began, carefully picking the words he was about to say. "It's fine, really. We all make mistakes sometimes." Now, could you leave me alone please? Florian looked relieved, letting a breath slip that he was holding in of anticipation. "I'm glad then. It's still kinda ironic though, isn't it? Heh.." His voice got quieter, tone sheepish as he directed his gaze off Andrew.
"What is?"
"Well, my occupation revolves about saving people and I wouldn't consider myself bad at it – yet I got you killed today." He trailed off, his hand fidgeting around the long cuff of his glove. "I can't help but feel a little embarrassed, haha! What a bad first impression.." The sun was still at its highest point, the rays of sunshine peeking through the curtains that weren't fully closed – leaving Florian standing in the light as Andrew was still engulfed by the shadows. Red eyes dart towards the other man, eyebrows knit into a somewhat unreadable expression.
"I can promise you, it really doesn't matter. It's just one match of many.."
Andrew could feel the other's eyes piercing into his skin as he continued talking.
"So.. don't feel embarrassed. It'll just make you play worse next time." He muttered under his breath, but still audible enough for Florian whose face now had his signature smile plastered onto it. Though this one was a little different, as his eyes seemed less squinted. His gaze felt.. soft, Andrew not feeling threatened by being looked at since a long time. "Alright then." The blonde turned on his heel swiftly, one gloved hand gripping at the doorknob.
"Next time, I'll be the one saving you! And other people, I can't let everyone down." That felt like a promise, a promise that Andrew wasn't sure he could trust in but Florian seemed determined to prove himself nonetheless. And with that, he left and immediately as the door closed, all Andrew heard were muffled greetings and even cheers. Florian must be quite popular, not like Andrew couldn't tell already from yesterday.
Laying himself back down onto his bed, he rubbed one of his eyes as he yawned. A small nap will do him good.
Maybe, he'll dream of something nice..
⩇⩇:⩇⩇
Screaming. Sounds of glass shattering. Furniture being pushed and thrown around. And the worst of all, the agonizing crackling noises of the fire that engulfed this once nice family home. His vision was blurry, as his mother tried to reach out for him – her body falling apart as the flames claimed her body. He couldn't understand what she said, his own heartbeat ringing too loud in his ears.
He clutched at the collar of his vest, as he scooted away from the flames, trying not to inhale much of the smoke while keeping his profile low. "There must still be a kid and a woman inside the house, sir!" He heard a man yell from outside the home, and immediate footsteps nearing his location right after. His mother was no longer recognizable, or rather what was left of her.
He couldn't see. He couldn't hear. He couldn't speak.
"Don't worry, kid, you're safe now." He was outside now, the starry night sky too beautiful for a night this cruel. "Check him for any injuries." The adults were speaking, saying things he barely understood. "It's a miracle, he survived!" – "Surely, it's like he has an guardian angel watching over him!"
A miracle? Guardian angel? He had just lost his entire life, yet these adults tried to spin it in a way that made it seem like he got lucky. He looked out the window of the car, as his once home grew smaller in the distance. The light and flames extinguished, just like his own in his heart. He wanted to cry yet no tears fell. "God has a plan for you, kid. Truly a gift to you." An older paramedic, that sat next to him, said and he.. he just nodded his head.
God had a plan for him? What would that be? Did it really had to involve his parents dying and ruining his life in the process? A miracle. Truly could've not been further from it.
"What is your name, kid?"
"Florian.. Florian Brand, Sir."
!
A sharp inhale, so deep his lungs hurt as he sat up in his bed in cold sweat. This dream.. This memory. Florian stilled for a minute, or perhaps even longer as this moment seemed like forever as he collected himself. Fists clutching tightly at the bedsheets, knuckles turning completely white. "A miracle.." He whispered to himself, followed shortly by a snort. How utterly ridiculous. Yes, Florian truly was a miracle child. Right hand lifted up, grazing against the scarred part of his face – the charred skin that grew closed over his empty eyesocket.
Turning his head towards the window of his room, the dark night greeted him. Stars twinkling brightly. Florian felt restless, a short glance towards the clock telling him he's only gotten roughly two hours of sleep so far and those were haunted by his unpleasant memories. So, basically just like every other night even before he lived at this twisted manor. It's almost 2am, and silence reigned upon the entire building. He couldn't sleep.. Maybe, he should go for a walk?
He was tempted to leave the bandages off, but it felt wrong walking around in public space without them these days. Lazily, he covered his eye like usual, but not bothering to switch out of his sleepwear. Nobody will see him anyway, and it'll be quick. The halls were completed dark except for that bit of moonlight that lit up the path downstairs for Florian, not scared one bit of the eery vibe this place held. He has been through worse, he can't be afraid of the dark.
Floorboards creeked beneath his steps as he carefully navigated through the manor. The entrance to the garden visible from afar, but one thing striked Florian as odd. The doors leading to it were opened wide, leaving the moonlight to flood into the hallway. Not that this manor had been the safest place but were these people running it not afraid of being broken into? Who would leave the doors open at the middle of the night..
As soon as the question was asked, it was answered as Florian peeked into the garden and saw a tall figure in the far back, taking care of some flowers. Wait, he knew that guy–! "Kreiss?" Andrew stumbled backwards and turned around in record time, face paler than ever and eyes wide. Though as surprised as he seemed, his posture and facial expression immediately seemed to calm down again as he saw it was just Florian. "F-Florian? What– Uh, what are you doing here? So late..?" His voice in a harsh whisper, not wanting to distrub the people who are sleeping.
"I.." Florian was looking for an appropriate answer in his chaotic mind. He didn't want to seem like a baby – a baby that had trouble sleeping due to stupid nightmares, especially not in front of Kreiss. He was a hero, he wasn't afraid or bothered by things as trivial as this. "I was thirsty.. Saw that the door was open and got curious!" Florian gave him a smile, and Andrew simply nodded in understanding. "Yeah.. I usually do not close the door when coming outside here." Usually? "Do you come here often? Normally I only see Ms. Woods around here!" Florian asked, stepping closer towards the other man.
"I'm here.. pretty much daily. I just come here at night." Andrew admitted, not even glancing at Florian who seated himself on a bench close to him, humming in response. It was quiet, somewhat of an awkward silence as Andrew isn't sure of what to do – feeling a bit shy now that he had basically been caught in the act. "That's.. pretty cool. Why is that?" Cicadas buzzing, crickets in the distance. "I, uhm, I like the peace and quiet this hour usually brings." He admitted, picking up the watering can again.
"Oh! Does that mean I'm disturbing you then? My apologies, I can leave again." His hands now firmly pressed against the bench, ready to spring himself upwards when told to leave. But he could see Andrew shaking his head before he replied. "It's fine.. Your company.. it's not as disturbing as others." Oh.. wow.. that's a compliment, is it not? Florian could feel his face heat up a bit, biting his bottom lip to not break out into a stupid grin. Relaxing again, back pressed against the bench, Florian simply watched. The grave keeper was so attentive and careful, as if these flowers had a will and soul of their own.
It was nice to watch, Florian could only dream of being treated so carefully like that. Well actually that was a lie, considering he only dreamt of his terrible childhood trauma that plagued him his entire life. His eyelids grew heavier as hs continued watching, breathing evening out as he slowly began to drift into sleep. "Brand?" Eyes snappes back open as he sat straight up again. "My apologies, I didn't want to wake you but you should probably head back to your bed before you fall asleep on the bench.." His voice was quiet, almost like a lullaby to Florian's half asleep brain.
No.. He didn't want to leave just yet, if he was being honest. Florian hadn't felt this free of worries and this easiness to fall asleep in a long, long while. It was hard to not give into his desires and tell Andrew that he wasn't sleepy at all just to stay longer with him.
"..You're right. I shall head back to bed for the night." Lifting himself from his seat, Florian slowly made his way back into the manor. One last glance back towards the grave keeper who was still tending to the flowers, "Have a goodnight, Kreiss." Standing in the door way, he awaited a reply. Andrew turned his head, small – almost unnoticeable smile on his lips as he muttered a 'goodnight' back. Florian noticed it, and heard it – and oh god, did it make his heart pound in his chest just a little bit harder, faster. Swiftly, Florian turned around and made his way back to his room, stumbling up the stairs in a hurry.
Feeling somehow exhausted, he jumped onto his bed as he then proceeded to roll over back and forth a few times. Face planted into the pillow, he huffed. Saving children, people from burning buildings was less stressful on his heart than this. He was so interesting, calming though he looked unsettling. Though he had trouble talking to people, he still spoke his mind bluntly – not caring if it was rude. His silent actions alone were mesmerizing, Florian felt like he struck gold with every interaction. He has never felt this way before. He liked it as much he hated it.
Though the clock on his nightstand reminded him again of his true enemy, it was now 2:36am. With Andrew around Florian doze off with no problem but now again he laid in his bed, alone with eyes staring up at the ceiling. He wanted to go to the garden again tomorrow night, share the moment again with Andrew. A smile unknowingly crept itself onto his face as he thought about it, growing excited. Yes.. tomorrow..
⩇⩇:⩇⩇
"The plants are growing up incredibly!" Emma exclaimed in excitement, Martha looking equally impressed with a small smile on her face. "You must take great care of them." She complimented which earned another lovely smile from the other woman. Andrew walked along, continuing his way down into the main hall, knowing well enough that half of these flowers were only taken care of by him during the nights. Oh well, not that he liked praise that much anyway – usually it just embarrassed him further.
Talking about embarrassment, mentally he still hadn't recovered from Florian's sudden visit last night. Andrew felt like he had been caught in the act of doing something illegal, but truly in his heart he knew it wasn't that deep. In fact.. it was nice to share a moment this peaceful for once, surprisingly a person as eccentric as Florian was a nicer partner for that than he thought – he grew to like Florian in general, he was kind to him and to other people and that's something Andrew always looked up to.
Call it basic human respect, Andrew didn't get to receive too much of it because he'd been a monster ever since he was born. People looked down him, the church especially yet it still took him in, took him in under their deceiving gazes that carried so much hatred underneath. He deserved it though, deserved it all. That's why.. they tool his mother away too, wasn't it..–
"Kreiss!"
Two firm hands were placed upon his shoulder blades, and suddenly his shoulders were pushed downwards. "Uwah!" Andrew stumbled forward, looking back to look at the culprit – Florian standing there, stupid grin on his stupid face with his stupid hands up. Did Andrew mention Florian was stupid? He huffed and puffed. "Wha–! Why would you do that? Didn't I tell you to stop?" One hand dusting off the opposite shoulder, the warmth and pressure of Florian's touch still lingering on his back.
"I know, and I'm sorry! I just couldn't help myself, your shoulders were so tense and high I wanted to push them back down."
Florian pursed his lips slightly, eyes darting everywhere but at Andrew, whose cheeks were now dusted in a light pink. Eyes blinking, still unbelieving of Florian's actions. "I-I see.." Was all that left his lips, and Florian now looked at him with his smile wide. "Is there a reason for that? You looked deep in thought." He noted, and Andrew felt a little exposed though he had always been an open book to read. "It was nothing serious.. Don't worry about it." He tried to reassure the fire investigator whom hesitantly accepted that half assed answer.
"Kreiss, I have a question." Keeping his head downwards sheepishly, as he then gazed upon the other. Andrew only tilted his head in curiosity at that, letting Florian talk. "I've been wondering.. or no, rather I just wanted to know if it would be okay if I visited you during your.. uh, garden time?" He grinned, slight nervousness showing but Andrew kept his bland expression even nodding of approval before he spoke. "I wouldn't mind if you joined. In fact, who am I to decide whether you're allowed to come or not.." His and Florian's gaze interlock, the latter's heartbeat pulsing in his ears.
"We're both merely visitors that are stuck here. Let's just enjoy what we have without any unnecessary restrictions."
Florian gulped, his body temperature rising. Urgh. "Yeah! Thank you.." He awkwardly responded, shaking his gloved fist around. Andrew looked like he wanted to say something but didn't spit it out, maybe better for Florian considering he probably looked like an complete idiot right now. "Then, uh.. I'll seeya tonight?" He carefully asked, and Andrew nodded, a small grin on his lips.
A smile just for him, Florian felt victorious.
⩇⩇:⩇⩇
"That–.. That must've been dangerous.. And you were truly confident you could've save them?"
"Yeah, and I reigned victorious! It even landed me on the front page of a big newspaper, haha!" Florian bragged a little, enjoying Andrew's mixed reactions of being impressed and somewhat worried to hearing out his rescue missions. "Wow, you really are amazing." Andrew's face is a happy one as he said that, and Florian's heart did a spin. "These are just a few stories of a whole bunch, I have been doing this job for quite a while now." Florian leaned back into the bench, watching Andrew as he talked. "It became less to not scary at all anymore after a while.. Saving people is what gives me hope."
A contempt smile adorned his face, and Andrew could tell how much this all meant to Florian. "You can be proud of yourself, Brand." His voice was soft, like honey to Florian's eardrums, it made almost forget what he wanted to say next. "I mean.. yeah! I'm very proud of myself because who else would be proud of me?" He laughed. "Hmm.. I bet your parents are very proud." Andrew guessed, fingers fiddling. "No, they died in a fire when I was a kid." Blunt and honest, Florian spat it out and Andrew turned to stare at him with big eyes, calm expression from eearlie morphing into completely in worry.
"O-Oh, I'm sorry! I had no idea.." Andrew apologized but Florian shut him down. "You couldn't have known, Kreiss, it's all good!" He smiles, and Andrew immediately relaxed. They both looked at each other, Florian admiring how beautiful the other looked in the soft moonlight. "Well, then I'm proud of you, Brand." He said, gaze and voice so genuine and Florian unknowingly balled his fists together. A blush spread out his entire face, he just prayed it's not visible in this lighting.
"Oh, thanks, haha!" You're threatening to make my heart jump out of my chest, change the topic fast before it eventually does happen!
"By the way, you can just call me Florian now!" He nervously chuckled. "Fine by me, Florian."
Even worse.
⩇⩇:⩇⩇
Days passed, and more nights came along. More stories were shared, Florian mostly talked while Andrew worked on the small garden but occasionally he'd drop a thing or two about his own childhood as well. Florian learned about his upbringing, how everyone saw him as a monster due to his condition and how much it affected him. It made him feel a little guilty because the reason why he got attracted to Andrew in the first place was due to his unique looks and demeanor compared to everyone else.
But though Florian did let a lot of things slip about him, two things he still kept to himself – his reoccurring nightmares and borderline insomnia. If only Andrew knew how little sleep he got daily, he'd have probably shut this whole thing down completely. And Florian can't let that happen, even if he performed worse in his matches due to fatigue.
This night started off normal as usual, Andrew got right to work meanwhile Florian rambled. He talked about his life in the orphanage, how tiring it was to be on his best behavior on all times until suddenly Andrew stopped in his tracks. "Huh, Emma already must've finished all of this. She didn't miss these for once." He straightened back up, putting away his tools and Florian watched curiously in silence. "You can keep talking, I'm listening." Andrew reassured, so Florian did. But he stopped again when suddenly Andrew sat down right beside him on the bench, their legs slightly touching.
Florian's heart was now in a rampage, beating painfully hard against his ribcage as it's about to burst. "Florian?" Huh? He dared to take a peek next to him, Andrew was so much more beautiful up close he couldn't handle it. "S-Sorry, got a little distracted. But yeah, as I was saying earlier–" Fidgeting with his hands in his lap, he continued his story. Talking about how saving all the children at the orphanage made his popularity go through the roof, with his peers and adults. Sleepiness began to gnaw at him though, his eyelids blinking repeatedly in a poor attempt to stay awake.
"Florian, are you okay? Are you tired?"
More than tired, he felt like a walking corpse.
".. No, I'm good."
Though his head was drooping, and Andrew sighed, shaking his head. "If you're tired, you can always head to bed.." A hand was placed onto Florian's shoulder, his skin began to tingle where he'd been touched by the other. Florian wanted to reassure him, convince Andrew he wasn't tired but he couldn't do it. "I can't." He finally admitted, feeling like a huge weight was starting to lift off his shoulders – allowing him to breathe. "What do you mean, you can't?" Andrew looked worried now, his hand caressing Florian's shoulder now ever so softly as his voice is in a worried whisper.
"I–.. I have trouble sleeping, I been having them for years. Ever since my parents died in that fire, it haunted me." Florian looks up from his hands, unsure about his confession, glancing at Andrew who gave him a sympathetic look. "I want to move on, I saved more people than I've lost but.. my dreams won't let go, they're just here to torment me." He couldn't help it now, his voice shaking slightly as his body pushed into Andrew's hand, seeking his warmth for comfort. "I can't remember the last time I slept longer than four hours, four hours full of unpleasant memories that is.." Andrew now had somewhat accepted Florian in his embrace, an entire arm now around the other's shoulders.
Florian indulged in it as he poured his heart out, feeling many mixed emotions but Andrew listened, listened to all of it – having now formed a rather close bond with him, it hurt to see the other suffer. "They told me God had a plan for me! Who says that to a grieving child? Calling it a miracle, that's all I was ever known for. Me losing my parents was all but a story to sell for them, but for me, it was the end of my life." Florian usually never cries, hiding behind this smiling facade as if he wasn't crumbling more underneath day by day.
Yet tears spilled, and they fell.
But now Andrew was here to catch them.
"I'm sorry, people treated you like that.." Andrew closed his eyes as he let Florian rest his head on his shoulder. Florian was personally going through a mental dilemma right now, he seeked comfort and warmth yet being this close to Andrew.. "When I first saw you in that garden, I wanted to let myself fall asleep right then and there that night.." It was silent, only the sound of them whispering, the buzzing of the bugs and water splashing of a nearby fountain could be heard. "It just.. went that easily. I usually take hours but with you, it was almost instant. It's like you keep all my dark memories away!"
Andrew felt his entire face light up, not knowing what to say as he continued caressing Florian's blonde locks with one hand. His mind was slightly hazy, he was barely focusing on what Florian said anymore, it made him feel a bit guilty. "Hey Andrew, I know it's an odd request but can you watch me until I fall asleep tonight.." Quite taken aback, the other was conflicted on what to answer. This was an odd request indeed, but also in the end after being confessed all this to – Andrew didn't know how he would've replied with anything else other than
"Alright, I suppose.."
—ᶻ 𝘇 𐰁
Andrew's eyes were growing tired as the minutes go by, keeping Florian company by sitting on the edge of his bed. Florian clutched onto Andrew's hand, his cold ones engulfed by Florian's warm fingers. He didn't mind it though, in fact he liked it. Florian felt calmer this night, not restless as his mind seemed to grow less active – brain focusing on falling asleep. Though he still wasn't quite there yet.
"Florian?"
"Hm?"
"I think I need to go for tonight." Andrew admitted, and Florian could feel his heart sink in his chest. "Please don't." He sounded desperate but he didn't care, as he glanced up at Andrew with pleading eyes. He really looked like a kicked puppy now, Andrew almost gave in immediately. "I'm growing tired myself.. I'm sorry, Florian." He leaned in forward, whispering it to him in case speaking too loud kicked him back awake.
"Just.. sleep in my bed for the night."
"Excuse me?"
"You can sleep in my bed, there's enough room!" Florian had a goofy grin on his face as he lifted the blanket, his tired yet expecting eyes looking at Andrew. "You're kidding?" Still slightly flabbergasted, Andrew began to pull away from Florian's grip but he pulled the other back down. "I'm not. Come on!" Both their heartbeats were going insanely fast yet both were also trying to keep up a calm face. This fell into the water for Andrew immediately as his flustered expression revealed itself.
"..Fine."
Florian watched, suddenly feeling a bit shy himself, when Andrew began to take his jacket off. His mind wandering to other similar scenarios, preferably involving more clothing items being removed– "Can you like move to the side more?" "Sure!" As Andrew laid next to him, Florian covered him with his blanket, enjoying how close they were. Being able to feel his body heat, hear his even breaths and feeling his heartbeat, it made Florian uncharacteristically calm. A level of calmness that he thought of as unachievable.
Florian casually threw an arm Andrew's waist who didn't intervene whatsoever. "Will you go to sleep now?" A finger pressed itself against his forehead and Florian nodded. "Yeah.. Goodnight, Andrew, oh and thank you!"
"You're welcome, and goodnight.."
For the first time in a while, Florian didn't have any nightmares.
⩇⩇:⩇⩇
Florian woke up extremely late, the bed was empty besides him, not that he was too surprised because it was almost 2pm. Andrew must've left a long time ago. Andrew.. He could feel entire face turn red at the memories from last night, thinking about the way he shamelessly indulged into touching the other's body. But though he was extremely embarrassed right he was also happy, happy about some good hours of peaceful sleep. He can't believe it actually worked..
Putting on his regular clothes, Florian left his room with the tasks of eating something and find Andrew. The manor was bustling, of course, it was noon and most survivors were grouped up doing their own little thing. Walking past the garden, Florian took a peek. "Ms. Woods!" Florian greeted Emma with a smile. She waved back at him, and signaled for him to come closer. "I thought you'd never come out your room at this point!" She joked, and Florian laughed. "Yeah.. I might have overdone it a little. But man, I slept well."
"That's nice to hear, considering your eyebags." Emma pointed at his face. "Sleep is rare for me.. But anyway, I've been meaning to ask you, do you know where Andrew went?" Florian got right to the point, Emma tilting her head as she scratched her chin lightly. "Must've gone to the library, I heard him mumbling about that earlier in the morning." The library? What business did Andrew have over there? "Thank you! I have to go see him now, so I'll see you later!" They both bid their goodbyes to each other, and Florian took his leave.
The library was like the garden on the bottom floor, so the way to it wasn't long or complicated. By the almost two months he had been bere, he never entered this place as there was simply no need to. Not that Florian didn't read but there was just simply nothing appealing to him about it right now. Entering the library, the heavy double doors announced his arrival by making the loudest creaking noises known to man. Totally not embarrassing or eye catching at all.
The bookshelves stood tall and stacked, some more cleaned while others were covered in spiderwebs. Tables were also spread out every where, and the place overall was just huge. Florian walked around, not knowing where Andrew would hide here, if he even was here but to his lucky surprise he saw something in the corner of his eye.
Sitting in a very far corner hidden away by huge bookshelves ahead, there was a tall figure sat slumped over a table with a book in its grip. "Andrew?" Florian walked up to him. Immediately his head sprung up, and he looked away from Florian's entire direction, but he could tell how flustered he was by how red the back of his ears were. "Hey, won't you look at me!" He yawned, and thankfully Andrew began to turn. His gaze still shying away from Florian when the other took a seat right in front of him.
"Hello, Flori.. an." His voice carrying a nervous tone. Andrew put the book away, sweeping it to the side, now that Florian could read the title clearly it seemed like any regular novel – not that he knew tol much about them nowadays. "You didn't bother and wake me up?" He whined playfully, his boots nudging against Andrew's beneath the table. "You.. You looked quite peaceful.. I would've felt bad." Andrew's blush was faint but noticeable, Florian thought it was super cute. "I slept like 9 hours.. Without any nightmares, it felt like a breeze." Florian sighed, happily.
"And it was all thanks to you."
Andrew let out a noise of surprise when suddenly Florian took ahold of his hands, taking them into his. "Your hands are always so cold!" Florian rubbed his thumb across Andrew's palm. "Well they usually handle the dead, heh.." He took a glance at Andrew's face and saw a stupid grin, this guy did jokes now? Florian must be a bad influence. "Aren't you silly today.." He mumbled, still busy caressing Andrew's hands in his. Andrew didn't complain, he actually enjoyed the touching – he grew to yearn for Florian's touchy behavior especially after last night.
"What were you reading?"
"A light novel."
"About what, if I may ask."
"..Romance." Florian snorted at that answer, causing Andrew to frown. "I-I'm sorry.. I did not mean to laugh. Pinky promise." He sucked in his bottom lip, and Andrew sighed annoyed, shoving Florian's hand away from his. "Heyy! I didn't mean it in a bad way, I think it's cute!" Florian clutched his Andrew's hands back into his, holding them close. "It's still rude." That earned him a pitiful look. "You have a crush on somebody?" Florian teased, and Andrew was befuddled. "What! What are you talking about–? And also we're grown men, don't use the word crush.." His face was now entirely red, from shame and embarrassment.
"Sorry, sorry, sorry!" Florian chuckled but Andrew seemed deep in thought, yet hesitant.
"Do.. Do you like someone?"
The question was genuine, and Florian looked at Andrew who was staring down at their intertwined hands. "Well.." he began "Yeah. It's you!" Florian smiled at him, taking in the sight of the reaction time as Andrew slowly took in and processed his words. The shy gaze morphing into a shocked look as his ruby eyes sprung wide open. "Me?!" He looked around in a haste but there was nobody else, there could've been nobody else.
"You."
"Oh.." His voice trembled noticeably.
"Are you mad about it, Andrew? Do you reject me?" Florian began to ask, refusing to let go of the other. "No.. and no." Their eyes met for a moment before Andrew broke off eye contact. "I like you too, Florian, you're so kind to me. How could I not like you in this way.." His choice of words were so pure, this entire moment was pure, freed from all the traumatic events, evil people and everything else right now. It was just them.
A hand reached out across the table as it let go of Andrew's hand, grazing the cheek of his face instead.
"Can I kiss you?"
Florian tried his best to sound serious, but he couldn't help how giddy he felt and how it must've slightly reflected in his voice.
"Yes. Please.."
The next thing they both knew was Florian got up entirely from his seat, to lean slightly across the table as he held Andrew's face with both his hands. The kiss was short, nothing too over the top yet it made both of their minds go haywire.
Florian let go of Andrew, his heart was racing. He just realized how much he was actually sweating as well, nasty. Hopefully Andrew didn't notice which he himself seemed to be on cloud nine. "Did I do good?" He asked, never having done this before. "I.. Uh, I don't know. I never did this before either." Florian admitted, his fingers tapping nervously against the table.
That made Andrew chuckle, realizing what hardcore losers they both actually were, and Florian just admired him. The butterflies in his stomach never seemed to rest when Andrew was around.
"So.. How was the novel?"
"God awful."