Work Text:
When Jaskier was younger, no matter the parties that were thrown or the way it was celebrated, his birthday always felt like just another day.
Another day marked off the calendar, another day gone by. Just another day.
It was always the same. A chilly autumn day, eight days into November. The sun would set early and the day would be over before it barely began. Always.
Geralt and Yen, and then Ciri when she was old enough, always congratulated him. Always a quick “Happy Birthday!” text, that no matter how many times people said it was impersonal, he absolutely loved regardless.
His chosen family always made him feel loved, no matter the day. But still, to him, his birthday was…just another day.
And then Radovid came along.
Radovid, who woke him up with a sweet kiss and quietly sang happy birthday in his ear.
Who showered him in twice as much love and affection on his birthday. If that was even possible.
Who made him see stars in the bright light of day as he showed him just how much he loved him. Especially on his birthday.
His birthday was no longer just another day that he would wake up and go about like he didn't just become a year older.
“I'm serious Jaskier. I wouldn't know what would have happened had today never existed. It's your birthday, the day you entered this world, and changed everyone's lives forever.”
Jaskier totally didn't burst into tears at Radovid's words, he absolutely did not!!
“No, you are not sharing our wedding with your birthday. Your birthday is special, not that our wedding isn't, but that's exactly why they can't be on the same day.” Radovid had protested heavily a few months after proposing.
And here he was, well past his prime, no longer a young adult, but not yet near middle age.
Celebrating another year.
But it wasn't just another chilly autumn day, eight days into November. The sun had already set, painting the night sky with stars.
It was a day he'd spend with the people he loved.
With the man he loved more than anyone else in the world.
Radovid pressed a kiss to his forehead, whispering a “Happy birthday” in his ear.
And showed him just how truly special his birthday was.