Chapter Text
It’s only been two system hours since he’s received the emergency call.
Two system hours was too long of a wait, couldn’t this shuttle go any faster? Sighing, Aventurine looks out the window he’s been standing beside for the past thirty minutes.
The station he’s supposed to be landing at is in view but since it's massive, it's farther away than it appears to be. There’s at least another hour before he’d arrive and then there’s all the check-ins he’ll have to go through because it’s a medical facility, not to mention he’ll have to go through a maze of halls to find the right room and every second without knowing what’s going on is driving him insane. He needs to be in that station now or so help him he’ll–
“Sir, would you like any refreshments while you wait? You seem a little nervous, maybe a drink would help?”
The sudden voice makes Aventurine jump out of his skin, but he quickly recovers and turns to the server who had spoken.
“Ah, no thank you. I appreciate the offer but I’d rather be sober when I arrive.” The server nods and goes along their way to bother other guests. In all honesty, a drink does sound good. How he got himself into this situation is a mystery; he might as well be drunk already to process this as reality.
The trouble wasn’t even being called out to a remote location. Heavens no, he’s quite used to being sent all across the cosmos. It’s just…well–
What can he say? He thought he had burned this bridge all the way back in Penacony. There hasn’t been contact between him and Ratio in weeks. Granted Aventurine may have pushed the good doctor away when he woke from the Nihility, but he was still processing! Apparently Ratio took Aventurine’s need for space as a chance to drop him completely. At least that’s how it feels to the Stoneheart currently flying off to some isolated planet.
Thinking back to the call only makes it much more confusing.
~*~
“Hello?”
“Oh! Is this Mr. Aventurine speaking?”
“It is. If this is a business inquiry I suggest leaving a message with my assistant so it can be processed appropriately. Typically I don’t take offers personally like this.” Aventurine was fully ready to hang up when the woman on the other side of the call panicked.
“Oh no, no. This is nothing like that sir! You’re listed as an emergency contact and we need you to come to the medical station located near Hombert-σ.” That was a fairly isolated planet, even for IPC standards, he didn’t know anyone out there. “Will you please come as soon as you can, Veritas Ratio has personally asked for your presence.”
“What? Ratio?” Never had Aventurine thought Ratio would personally invite him anywhere, let alone a planet as hazardous as Hombert-σ. “Is he treating someone there?”
“He’s…the patient.” The poor woman on the other side of the phone hesitated, almost as if she herself didn’t believe the words she spoke. "There was an accident in the research lab, he just kept repeating to call his emergency contact and you’re the only one listed.” A research accident? Maybe Aventurine should have paid more attention to this month's scheduled projects. However, that was the least of his worries. Him? Ratio’s only contact? Why? More importantly, is Ratio okay? He has to be right? A simple research accident wouldn’t put Veritas Ratio out of commission. He has to be okay.
“Right…okay. I’ll be there as soon as I can. Tell him I’ll see him soon!”
~*~
The next hour passes by achingly slowly. It’s been a while since the two men have seen each other, and Aventurine had been certain Ratio was too upset at him to see him again. Their last departure ending with Aventurine pushing Ratio away, had caused the good doctor to lay out all his grievances in a fit of desperation veiled as concern.
Something about Aventurine’s recklessness had become too much for Ratio to handle. Maybe preparing to literally die at the Planet of Festivities was not the best way to maintain a stable work relationship. Although…during that time Aventurine may have even considered them friends, they got along well with friendly banter and the occasional meet up for drinks. Perhaps he had miscalculated the signs, mixing up social signals with Ratio’s caring actions. He is a doctor after all; despite Ratio’s prickly attitude, he is quite the nurturing soul.
Hearing the pitiful, worried confession Ratio gave him after he finally awoke from the Nihility drove a wedge in Aventurine’s heart. Ratio wasn’t the only one who wished for him to stay alive, Topaz texted him to stay safe as well, but it was different with Ratio. The doctor was far more concerned, willing to break his carefully planned act to make sure Aventurine was okay . It left a sour taste in Aventurine’s mouth the closer he got to his probable demise. Waking up willing to live on was not a possibility he had in his mind, nor was hearing Ratio so concerned.
For the last couple of months while on leave, Aventurine avoided anything that had to do with the Intelligentsia Guild so he wouldn’t chance upon the disappointed face of one Veritas Ratio. He didn’t reach out, nor did Ratio. Aventurine thought their time as co-workers ended due the lack of communication, and the friendship he thought they had, never existed. After all, what kind of ‘friendship’ can easily find itself in radio silence?
So then, why is Aventurine now rushing out of this ship and into the medical space station? Why is he getting frustrated with these poor nurses going through protocol; drowning him in questions and an examination to make sure he wasn’t ill or carrying anything that could compromise the patient's health? Aventurine hasn’t been sick in years, and he came straight from Pier Point, he's the picture of a clean bill of health – this is completely unnecessary.
As soon as the visitor badge is granted to him, Aventurine sets off with only the room number Ratio is in. He didn’t stay for directions, he doesn’t have time for that. A nagging voice in the back of his mind calls him an idiot for blatantly ignoring useful information, but this is a hospital . What are the chances the rooms are not numbered by floor? Pushing through a crowd to hurry onto an elevator, he all but slams his hand onto the third floor’s button. It startles the other passengers, however with one look at Aventurine’s distressed state… they could put the pieces together.
It isn’t like he’s unknown here either. This is an IPC funded station after all, and he is a Senior Manager for one of the departments. Staff, patients and visitors alike part a path for him as soon as he’s spotted practically running down the halls. Sometimes being a universe wide celebrity has its perks.
Not that room.
Not this one either.
No. No. Again, no .
His patience begins to run low, and Aventurine half-regrets not staying for directions. When he turns the corner of the long hall, he finds himself in the number block he needs to be in: a section that holds bigger, more private rooms. Finally at the end, he spots the room he’s looking for on the plaque beside the door.
As he reaches the door a nurse comes out, looking down at the clipboard in her hands. They almost run into each other, but the nurse looks up just in time. She seems startled, but with one glance at the visitor badge pinned to his coat, she gives him a quick nod before leaving down the corridor.
Good. Finally .
The nurse had left the door open for him, and he quietly peeks around the frame just in case Ratio was asleep.
The sight makes Aventurine freeze. His blood runs cold, and his panic level rises.
What exactly could have happened to the Veritas Ratio for him to end up like this?
Stumbling into the hospital room, barely catching his breath, Aventurine makes his way to the edge of the bed.
“Ratio?” Wide eyes travel over the expanse of gauze wrapped around the Doctor’s left side. From his left arm, his torso, up his neck and even over his eyes– nearly everything from the waist up was covered. There isn’t any discoloration on the bandages, so at least he’s not bleeding anymore. Still, the injuries necessary for this much dressing would be immense.
“Aventurine?” Ratio sounds hesitant, surprised even. The bed dips as Aventurine sits down, reaching over to carefully run his hand down the bandaged arm.
“What happened? Are you okay? They didn’t tell me anything over the phone.” It’s hard to hide the worry in his voice, even more so when he just couldn’t stop touching Ratio. His hands make their way around all the bandages, checking for any signs of discomfort, trying to deduce what the hell caused this. By the time he reaches Ratio’s face, the scholar is tense and frowning. With an exasperated sigh, Ratio grabs the wandering hands and pulls them away.
“Will you stop your incessant fussing?” If his eyes weren’t covered, Ratio would probably have rolled them at the blond. “I’m not even injured. This is just precautionary. Not that it’s necessary. I specifically stated that this virus couldn’t spread via physical contact once the specimen was removed. Of course the staff here refused to listen to me, even though I was the one working with the subject. Honestly, what is the point of running their own testing if I’ve already done all the research they need? I’ve been sitting here in this itchy gauze for hours while they run around like imbeciles conducting tests that I’ve already provided.”
Aventurine is quiet after the rant, letting the words soak in. Ratio is okay. He’s fine. Nothing was actually wrong. Tension finally falls from the blond's shoulders and he laughs. . The laughter is not appreciated from the frustrated man in front of him, but Aventurine doesn’t care.
“Sorry, sorry. I was worried. You of all people ending up in a lab accident? I was sure you had to have lost a limb or something. You sure didn’t lose your feisty personality though.” He laughs again as Ratio sighs. Aventurine can’t tell if this natural banter is a blessing or a curse. How is it that they can fall so easily back into their routine? Ratio is likely saving face considering the situation he’s in. That’s fine; Aventurine can also keep up a performance. If Ratio can act like nothing has changed, then so can he.
“Please refrain from referring to me in such a way. I am not, as you say, ‘feisty’ .” Ratio lifts his right hand, running his fingers through his hair… well, at least the part that wasn't pinned to his head with bandages. “It’s not like I’m unharmed. There were some complications. Permanent ones. I just do not know how to explain it without causing you to panic again .”
“What? But you said you were uninjured!” There’s no mistaking the rise in Aventurine’s voice. Okay, so maybe he was easily panicked, but that’s not the point . “If you’re not hurt then what else could have happened?”
Ratio is silent, frowning as he mulls over the right words to string together. If he were simply injured, things would be far less complicated .
“I was helping a research team with a new sample of fungi found on the planet. Given the nature of its chemical compound, they wished to see if they could make the toxin safe for medical use. We needed to move it from outside to the lab for further testing. Hombert-σ experiences a mostly night-time day cycle. The reaction the fungi had to being exposed to sudden light was unexpected, and the spores had exploded.”
Aventurine nods slowly, though Ratio couldn’t see that gesture. He clears his throat instead.
“Right…but you were wearing protective gear, correct?”
“Of course. However, whatever chemical change that happened to make the spores explode was also extremely corrosive. Since we did not prepare for that, our gear was unable to prevent the acidic toxins from eating through it. I took initiative to make sure the others were safe as the specimen spread across my body. They are thankfully mostly unharmed, I took the brunt of that attack.”
More silence fills the room. It isn’t particularly surprising to the Stoneheart that Ratio focused on others' safety first. He’s a doctor at the end of the day, fully trained to make sure others' lives were saved before his own. An honorable thing, something to be proud of, yet Aventurine knows the scholar would turn his head at any praise of his deeds.
“So what…what exactly do these chemical compounds you mentioned do exactly?” Aventurine doesn’t know why, but his heart feels heavy. Something is very off about this. Ratio hadn’t moved his left arm at all since he walked in.
“It has a similar makeup of typical anesthesia, and it would be groundbreaking if we were able to create an anesthetic that was more concentrated for local use. It could even be used as a nerve blocker for pain as well since it kills nerve endings. When used in moderation, it could provide temporary relief for patients.”
Moderation . The expanse of coverage over Ratio’s body surely isn’t even close to moderation .
“Doc, I don’t like where this is going.”
“It’s not a favorable situation for me either.” Ratio sighs, turning his bandaged face towards Aventurine. “I will not be able to work for a…long time. And I will need assistance, since I am now blind.”
“ Blind? ” Aventurine froze. This may be worse than being injured. Broken bones and cuts can heal over time, but nothing compares to losing one of your major senses. Ratio needs his eyes just as much as his mind for his work. How else will he be able to perform the experiments and tests he does? This isn't fair; Ratio doesn’t deserve to be held back like this. Of all people, why did it have to be him? “Ratio…I’m so sorry. I don’t…I don’t know what to say.”
“There’s nothing to say. It is what it is. I’ll figure it out. I already have a neuro-skeleton prosthetic on its way to help with my arm. This is just a minor setback.” Despite his words, Ratio is nervously tapping his fingers against the bed. A set back with an incurable, life long setback. Yet, even when facing the anxiety of the unknown before him, Ratio is calm. Being headstrong in the face of a storm is an admirable feat that Aventurine adores.
Meanwhile, just sitting here, Aventurine feels...useless. There isn’t anything he can do for Ratio, he knows nothing about alien fungi nor anything related to the medical field. The most he can do is crudely bandage a wound before proper medical attention is available. This whole situation is beyond him and he still had no idea why he was even here .
Footsteps echo from the hall, and a nurse knocks on the doorframe.
“Hello, sorry to interrupt. Your prosthetic is here, Doctor, and we got the approval to remove the gauze.” She smiles, lifting the package in her arms up to present it to the men in the room but quickly lowers it realizing her patient could not see . Aventurine stands to move out of the nurses way. Relief settles through Ratio’s body as the nurse unravels the bandages.
“Finally. It felt like a lifetime in these.” The linen is unpinned and slowly removed, uncovering deep blue skin.
“Our apologies, Doctor. Your work was useful, but protocol states we must confirm the results ourselves. Keeping you waiting wasn’t our intention. At least your husband here was able to come to keep you company!” While the nurse busies herself with unwrapping the gauze, both Aventurine and Ratio freeze.
Husband?
Aventurine can feel the blood rushing to his face as he turns his head away from the nurse's eyes. He’s so glad that Ratio can’t actually see how much embarrassment such a simple slip up could inflict on him.
Where did that come from? They’re not even a thing, let alone married. Not that marrying the Veritas Ratio sounded terrible. In fact, it would be welcome. Ratio was so caring and kind; maybe a little rough around the edges, but Aventurine knew how sweet the scholar could be when the chance arose. Maybe if he didn’t absolutely fumble their fragile relationship at the end of Penacony things would be different now. This poor nurse didn’t know that, and he didn’t have the heart to correct her. Besides, Ratio hadn’t said anything either so perhaps letting the woman live in blissful ignorance of her mistake was for the better.
“Okay! You’re all finished. Would you like assistance with the prosthetic?” The nurse claps her hands together, her bubbly personality quelling the embarrassment just slightly.
“That would be appreciated.” Ratio sits up more, rolling his affected shoulder slightly. The movements are loose, almost sluggish, and Aventurine could see how difficult it was for him to just move. It's as if the rest of Ratio’s arm was dead weight. The nurse takes hold of his arm, sliding the prosthetic on. Once the bands of the skeletal framing were in place, she carefully securesthe frames around each finger.
“Alright, this part may sting a little.” Her warning is met with a nod, and as she tightens the first band around Ratio’s shoulder, she presses the two metal squares into his skin. Ratio hisses at the pinch, but otherwise appears fine. The next two are at the joint of his elbow, but this time the press doesn’t invoke any reaction, nor does the last one at Ratio’s wrist. “The nerve connections are set in, can you test out your movement?”
Ratio slowly flexes his arm, then his fingers. Everything seems fine, except that every movement is less natural; slow and mechanical. That’s how Aventurine would describe it.
However, the fact that Ratio can move again is enough. If the Doctor wasn’t happy, Aventurine surely can be happy for both of them. At least this is a step in the right direction for some form of recovery.
“This works well, thank you.”
“Of course! I'll gather your discharge paperwork and diagnosis reports, and then you’ll be set to go.” The nurse smiles at Aventurine as she leaves the room.
Now alone together once again, Aventurine feels a tinge of embarrassment return. But he’s here to support Ratio, he can’t be trapped in his own delusional thoughts. Working up his usual bravado, Aventurine loops around the bed and settles on the scholar’s left side to inspect the prosthetic.
“Well, this thing is interesting. How does it work?” Aventurine glides his fingers over the thin frames of the neuro-skeleton. Ratio perks up at this, his face forming that silly concentrated expression the Stoneheart finds far more endearing than he should.
“It’s quite simple actually. The structure is the more complex part. However, to answer your question, the bands at each joint have these electrical pads. Each one of these pads have small needles that send electrical pulses down the arm to stimulate nerve control.” Ratio manages to slowly point out each part along his arm despite his obvious excitement on the topic. “Now the framing is special . It took me and other researchers a long time to develop something that was both weightless and flexible without breaking. These nodes along the frame stick to the skin, almost akin to how heart monitors work, as they organize the electrical currents along major nerve points for the most fluid reaction. It’s just a prototype, so it’s not perfect. However, for the time being it will do its job fine until I am able to work on the prosthetic again.”
“Oh, wait, you worked on this?” He should have known this would be something Ratio would create. A prosthetic of this complexity would be incredible for patients who don’t want or can’t afford cybernetic attachments. Somehow, it makes the device even more intriguing to Aventurine.
“Yes, of course. I don’t want just any contraption attached to my body, so I specifically asked for this prototype to be delivered to me. It's custom fit for me as well since I was already testing it personally. I suppose this situation I’ve ended up in can further that testing.”
“You’re so casual about this, Doctor. I’m surprised you’re not freaking out.” Even Aventurine himself feels more nervous. How will Ratio work now? Will he still be able to? What if he has to retire early and live without continuing his ambitions? There’s no way this didn’t affect the good Doctor in any way.
“It is unfortunate, sure. But as I said before it’s just a minor setback. I already have ideas for artificial eye replacements. I just need to…find a way to make them myself.” That’s the first time Ratio had hesitated since Aventurine had arrived at the hospital. A break in his act, Aventurine sees it clearly now. Penacony came with its benefits after all.
“Can’t you have one of your Guild colleagues work on something like that for you?”
Ratio scoffs at that, waving his hand in dismissal.
“As if I’d let those imbeciles create something that I need to put into my body. I only trust myself with something like that. Besides, they would try to add unnecessary components without consulting me and I’d rather just have a more natural and simple device.” Simple and efficient, it was all he wanted and all he needed. Aventurine chuckles at that. If anyone could manage to create such a device without being able to see, it would be Ratio, he's sure of it.
“Oh? But you could have so many useful features! Ultra-violet vision, or maybe lasers. There’s so many options out there, Doc.” Aventurine smiles as Ratio shakes his head in disapproval.
His eyes once again fall on the affected areas on Ratio’s left side. Aventurine is unable to assess the complexity of nerve damage, but the accompanying rash displayed across Ratio’s skin is, for lack of better words, beautiful in a way. Wordlessly, he brushes his fingertips against the blue-purple coloring of the scholar's skin.
It isn’t just blue-purple, scattered throughout the almost iridescent colors are small white flecks. Trailing up Ratio’s arm, Aventurine admires the swirl of colors beneath his hand. There’s almost a scaly feeling, like the smooth underbelly of a snake.
The rash lessens as it reaches the upper part of Ratio’s arm; his bicep and shoulder are almost unaffected. A bit of red lines the thinner edges of the rash, only to thicken again as it runs across Ratio’s face. Aventurine leans closer, reaching out to hold Ratio’s face in his hands. He’s too distracted to notice the light flush on the Doctor’s cheeks.
Looking into now blind eyes, Aventurine can’t help but gasp.
“Oh wow . I know this is unfortunate…but Ratio…your eyes are gorgeous .”
Ratio’s eyebrows furrow, his confusion evident even through his embarrassment.
“Pardon? I’m not sure I understand the sentiment.”
“Well, I’m not sure how much you were able to see before you lost your sight, but the pattern of the rash is very unique.” Aventurine brushes a lock of indigo hair out of Ratio’s face. “You look like you have the universe itself in your eyes.”
An accurate description if Aventurine had any say in it. But it was true. The swirl of blues and purples with scattered white flecks all up the left side of Ratio’s body can only be described as space itself. Ratio’s eyes hold more depth to this galaxy-like pattern. A deep blue color rimmed in purples, and when the light hit just right a glowing hint of red or a lighter blue shimmered through. The same white dots scatter themselves in Ratio’s eyes, creating their own unique constellations. Aventurine briefly wonders if they’d be able to find a constellation in reality that would line up with these false stars.
And just how fitting it is, for Ratio to have such a beautifully displayed infection. The person who strives for the unity of the universe through knowledge now encased by the stars themselves. A tragic metaphor taking on a physical form as if those who reach for the truth among the stars are doomed to be lost forever in the never-ending stretches of space. Even still, Aventurine knows Ratio will continue forward, carve his way through the setbacks until he reaches his goal. The universe can numb him, take his sight, but the scholar will push back, regain his losses and become one with the starry night sky if it meant he could save even one person from their demise.
Leaning a little closer, Aventurine takes in the full scope of Ratio’s condition. It truly is a beautiful sight despite the obvious drawbacks. Looking into Ratio’s eyes made it feel like the night sky was consuming him. Mysterious, yet intriguing enough to lose oneself in the vast depths of them. Aventurine blinks, and his vision glances away from Ratio’s eyes to just below the scholar’s right eye.
“Hey…have you always had this little freckle below your eye? I’ve never noticed it before. It’s quite charming.” Aventurine runs his thumb over the small mark, oblivious to Ratio’s eyes widening and sudden flustered tensing.
“I- Well. I suppose? I’ve never noticed it myself.” Ratio shifts on the hospital bed, turning his head away from those prying hands. Only then did Aventurine notice the light blush on the scholar’s cheeks. “Are you done with your unnecessary examination?”
“Aw, are you embarrassed, Doc? That’s cute. C’mere, let me hold your face some more.” Reaching out again, Aventurine takes Ratio’s face between his hands. Ratio, despite his efforts, fails to pull far enough away to escape. Hands are back on his face, squishing his cheeks as Aventurine’s happy laughter fills the room. The feeble attempt at pushing Aventurine away falls flat, leaving Ratio’s hand loosely wrapped around a thin wrist.
“Oh? I do hope I’m not interrupting anything between you two.” Both men jump at the voice, causing Aventurine to rise up off the bed. When did he even climb further onto it?
The nurse laughs to herself as the two awkwardly await her news. “I have your discharge paperwork ready, as well as a white cane for you to use. And here are your robes back, they have been sterilized and cleaned according to our biohazard contamination procedures. If you experience any irritation from the chemical compounds please let us know.”
The nurse hands over Ratio’s robes and the doctor wastes no time with unraveling the cloth to put them back on.
“The cane is unnecessary for me. I’ve often walked around with my sight obscured, I’m confident in my ability to maneuver my surroundings without one.” Ratio stands from the bed, finishing his last few loops of cloth. Looking the scholar over, the nurse frowns while Aventurine laughs. “What is so amusing to you, gambler?”
Aventurine walks up to the taller man and pulls at the travesty that is Ratio’s outfit.
“You may be able to walk fine, but maybe getting a simpler outfit would be favorable. It’s like a toddler dressed you, Doc.” With nimble fingers, the robes are undone and resituated to their proper placement. After years of knowing Ratio, Aventurine has memorized what the robes were supposed to look like. Pleased with himself, Aventurine smiles and pats Ratio’s chest when he is finished. “There you go. Now you look like the well put together Doctor Ratio we know. Also, I suggest taking the cane, just in case. Buildings are one thing, but the outside is another. At the very least it would help others to be careful around you.”
Ratio bristles at this, crossing his arms with a huff.
“If they cannot tell just from looking at me, then it is on them. I do not need a device to help me with something I already do well on my own .” The stubborn defiance Ratio emits makes Aventurine sigh.
“Oh yes, yes. Please elaborate how that works Doctor ‘Everyone deserves the tools for education’. You can’t possibly believe that people will identify your disability with just a look. I’d say it’s more likely a personal issue. Are you too afraid to be seen?” Sarcasm drips from the blond’s words, causing a trademark scowl to form on Ratio’s face.
“You are mistaken. I simply do not wish to have something I have no use for. It can be given to someone who truly needs it.” Ratio steps forward, around Aventurine and to where the nurse stands with ease. He holds out his hand as she hands him his paperwork. “Thank you. I will be sure to fill out the service survey and give my regards to your excellent care. I will also be including suggestions to speed up your process for your protocol on handling unknown species. Having to wait for hours for the same testing that took me minutes on field to perform is unacceptable and could put patients at risk of not receiving sufficiently urgent care.”
The poor nurse looks at him partly surprised, but then settles into a laugh.
“Of course, thank you Doctor. I’m sure your advice will be of great help to us!” Aventurine is sure that this woman's smile would even brighten Ratio’s sour mood if he could see it. Every complaint she takes in stride; probably due to years of practice with unruly patients. He hopes she’s paid well for her troubles.
“Oh, and I do have a complaint. The bathroom soap. It is unnecessarily diluted and watered down. Hardly suffices as proper hygiene in a hospital. I have to say, it’s quite disappointing and I recommend-”
“Okay! That’s enough out of you, Ratio. Leave the poor girl alone.” Aventurine cuts off the Doctor’s rant with a hand over his mouth. “Just leave it for your survey thing.”
Pushing the man towards the doorway, Aventurine gives the nurse an apologetic smile. She doesn’t seem to mind, which he is grateful for. Ratio grumbles to himself – not that Aventurine cares – he instead motions to the blind cane in the nurse's hand and she hands it over without a word. He’ll suffer through Ratio’s complaints later once he gets the scholar home.
“Well, you certainly have a great partner here to take care of you during this time of need, Doctor. Not to mention he’s quite the catch. I’m almost jealous!” The nurse laughs again and walks ahead of them to leave. “Be careful on your way home, it was a pleasure to meet you both!”
With that she walks down the hall, leaving the two men to stare blankly in her direction. A moment passes, and Ratio clears his throat and takes the first step towards the hall. Aventurine blinks, shaking his head to rid himself of the slight flush on his face and follows after the man hurrying down the hall.
“Honestly. What is with her assuming we are together? We hardly even see each other for work, let alone have time for a personal relationship.” Ratio crosses his arms with a sigh, though Aventurine doesn’t miss the light blush on the tips of his ears. Ha, so even the so-called stoic Doctor Ratio could be flustered by such things? Well he can take advantage of that, now couldn’t he? With a smile, Aventurine latches onto Ratio’s arm with a dramatic sigh.
“Oh? Is the thought of being married to me such a reach? I’m offended, Veritas darling . I’d make such a lovely husband for you.” He expects Ratio to shrug him off, but no such thing happens. That odd, warm and fuzzy feeling creeps its way back into Aventurine’s chest. There isn’t even an ounce of reluctance from Ratio; it’s conflicting with Aventurine’s understanding of their mutual weeks of silence between them. Pursing his lips, Aventurine shakes the thought from his mind. They’re still in public, obviously Ratio is just keeping up appearances. All those tabloids had captured their unconventional relationship over the years; Aventurine being physically affectionate and Ratio accepting every gesture with refined tolerance became a well known dynamic.
“Questionable at best, Gambler. If we were to have such a relationship, you would have to commit to not being so reckless. As well as not spending so much at casinos. Even if your luck is favorable, it is still a terrible addiction I do not approve of.” He lowers his arms to wrap one around the Stoneheart's waist and allows Aventurine to wrap around him tighter. That was certainly not an answer he thought he’d get. “Did you take that cane? I can feel it against my arm. Did I not say I had no use for it?”
“Ratio, come on. It’s better to be cautious in this situation. You may be able to traverse your home well, but what about busy streets? Anything could happen and I’d rather not have to be called again because you got trampled to near death at a crosswalk.” Maybe some other time they can talk about the first part of Ratio’s response. He wasn’t expecting a casual response to a marriage scenario. Especially since it seemed like…well…Ratio had previously thought about such a thing. Who is he kidding though? Aventurine burned that bridge when he pushed Ratio away all those weeks ago. For now Aventurine would like to leave the hospital before his face burns away.
There’s a dismissive grumble from the scholar as they walk out of the hospital. The fresh air simulated by the station's artificial environment is a welcome change from the previous sterile air. It isn’t a busy station in the slightest, given that this part of the cosmos is mostly uninhabited, which makes the trek back to the transportation zone easy. Their wait isn’t terrible either, they board the next ship quickly and settle into their accommodated rooms for the long trip back to Ratio’s home.
It’s an overnight trip, so most of their time is spent sleeping until the morning. Much to Ratio’s annoyance, Aventurine is insistent on guiding him through the station by clinging onto the scholar’s arm to pull him along. He calls for a taxi, balancing his hold on the blind cane, his phone, and Ratio’s arm in a comedic display of clumsiness he’s grateful his companion cannot see. Soon after, they are on their way to Ratio’s home.
Upon arrival at their destination, Ratio wastes no time exiting the taxi leaving Aventurine scrambling to keep up. He’s in the middle of paying the driver when he hears Ratio stumble outside and the faint whisper of curses.
“Aventurine, care to explain why my walkway is filled with luggage? ” Annoyance is clear in the scholar's voice, but Aventurine ignores it as he gets out of the taxi. Although as soon as he sees the collection of his own luggage on Ratio’s doorstep, he’s more confused than anything. Before he gets the chance to answer, his phone rings.
Well, ask and you shall receive. Perhaps this call will provide answers.
“Madame Jade! Hello, to what do I owe the pleasure for this call?”
“ No need for formalities, child. I assume by now you’re either en route or have just arrived at the Doctor’s home? ” Aventurine blinks, but chuckles at Jade’s accurate deduction.
“Just arrived. I’m assuming you’re the one who arranged for my entire home to be sent over?” Aventurine looks between his suitcases and Ratio’s growing impatience.
“ Of course. I figured it would be easier for you to care for Dr. Ratio if you stayed over at his. I was quite concerned when I learned your early dismissal was because he’d gotten into an unfortunate accident. As his only emergency contact I would presume you’re taking on the responsibility as his caretaker until he gets back on his feet, no? ” Jade’s normally elegant voice is laced with amusement. As to why she would plan such a spectacle, Aventurine has no idea. The only real response he has to give is a short, nervous laugh.
“Ah, but I was scheduled to get back to work next week; and by the looks of it you happen to have sent over nearly my entire house. Surely that was a mistake? I’m not suited to be a caretaker of any sort.” Thankfully by this point Ratio had entered his home and no longer could hear this conversation. He’s sure the scholar would protest against the need for any form of personal care. With a sigh, Aventurine grabs the handle of one suitcase and starts heading for the door.
“ No worries, I’ve extended your leave indefinitely so you may spend as much time as possible with your… companion . He obviously trusts you enough to keep you as a reliable contact, so it shouldn’t be a problem. I will divide your work between the Stoneheart's, so don’t worry about a thing. I have taken the responsibility for your absence. You just sit back and enjoy your time with your dearest Doctor .” An amused chuckle comes through the other end of the phone. Why does she sound so knowing? Jade knowing things usually spells disaster for everyone else involved. This only makes his nervousness grow.
“Huh? What’s with that tone? Jade? Hello? ” Standing in the open doorway, Aventurine pulls his phone from his ear to look offendedly at the ‘call ended’ on the screen. “She hung up on me!”
“I too, would hang up as soon as I could if I were talking with you.” Aventurine looks towards Ratio, who is now sitting peacefully on his couch with an all too sarcastic smirk on his face.
“Well unfortunately for you , she’s extended my leave to be your caretaker . Aeons knows why but she felt that was necessary and you know as well as I do that convincing her otherwise is not an option.” Dragging the suitcase into the living room, Aventurine sets it aside next to the very same couch Ratio was now scowling on. “So it looks like you’re stuck with me for the foreseeable future. Isn’t that lovely , Doc?”
“Hardly.” Ratio waves him off with a scoff. “Just gather your things, I’ll show you to the guest room.”
Doing as he’s told, Aventurine continues to drag near a dozen more suitcases into Ratio’s home while Ratio sits quietly listening to the clamoring of luggage filling his living room. Later on, Aventurine’s going to have to send an email to Jade detailing that he definitely did not need this much of his belongings. He’s probably going to last a week here, at the most. It’s inevitable that Ratio’s going to grow annoyed with him quickly. Even as he’s directed to the guest room, Aventurine doesn’t plan on unpacking much. Only his toiletries and other essentials needed to be taken out. So for now, he’ll take his luggage and neatly line it against the wall for easy access.
“Okay, that’s everything!” Aventurine closes the guest room door and rejoins his impromptu host in the living room. “Honestly Doc, I’m surprised you didn’t just turn me away.”
“Hmm? Now why would I do that?” Ratio’s eyes are closed, his head resting against the back of his couch. “Would you rather I kick you out after you came all this way?”
“Not at all.” He huffs, sitting himself down on the opposite end of the couch. “I wouldn’t want to deal with Jade’s questioning if I went back so soon.”
Another question filters through Aventurine’s thoughts, but he keeps quiet. For the next few minutes the two of them sit without a spoken word between them. It’s awkward, at least to Aventurine. He’s been to Ratio’s home before but it was never anything more than to pick him up or drop off paperwork in person. This is the first time he’s ever been inside the scholar’s home. Were they even close enough to live in the same space for the foreseeable future? Aeons knows how long he’d be helping Ratio out, or if Ratio would want his help beyond a few days. If not, then that makes this whole situation far more unusual because why would Ratio-
“If you continue to overthink you may fry whatever intelligence you have left.” Ratio, despite not being able to see, is looking right at Aventurine. “What is bothering you?”
“Oh well…it’s nothing really. I think now that all the excitement has settled, I’m just a little confused.” He pauses, fidgeting with the hem of his sleeve. Times like this he truly wished Ratio weren’t so perceptive. Even without sight he could pinpoint Aventurine’s discomfort; a very invasive ability if he has any say in it. “Why was I your emergency contact? I mean…the last time we saw each other was Penacony, and that was nearly a couple months ago now and…I also didn’t think you wanted to see me again. I’d assume you would have better candidates for something so important, like family or a friend.”
A frown pulls at the corners of Ratio’s lips. He doesn’t reply right away, seemingly choosing to collect his thoughts beforehand. The silence makes Aventurine more nervous. Their last meeting wasn’t the most pleasant. Ratio’s note was one of the things that helped Aventurine want to live, but it took him nearly dying to see that. He expected another one of those long, almost parental scolding Ratio tended to give him. But when Aventurine had finally awoken from the Nihility, he was only met with concern. Ratio had fussed over him for hours after to make sure he was uninjured.
There may have been a point during the check-up when Aventurine physically pushed Ratio away begging him to stop. He was too overwhelmed with the level of care and it was messing with his head. Aventurine didn’t deserve such attention, nor did he deserve the look Ratio gave him at that moment. He’ll deny that unnamed emotion until the end of time. Even with his newfound will to live it didn’t feel right to accept such feelings.
“Well, your assumption was wrong.” Ratio sighs, crossing his arms. “I did not reach out because I figured you would need the time to process such a traumatic sequence of events. As for setting you as my emergency contact, I do apologize. I should have asked you before making that decision. You are the person I am closest to, whether you realize that or not. I…no longer have family available for such situations. However, if you’re uncomfortable with it, I can remove your information.”
The answer is surprising to say the least. Aventurine didn’t expect to be Ratio’s closest friend? Co-worker? He’ll figure that part out later. However, the thing that really sticks out is the comment about Ratio’s own family. There is a familiar hollowness to the Doctor’s voice, something Aventurine had picked up on himself many years ago. It makes sense really, the way Ratio never speaks in length about his childhood or his family at all. They seem to be in the same boat; a terrible thing to have in common, but somehow it makes Aventurine feel at ease knowing Ratio had the ability to understand his complex feelings of family.
“No, it’s perfectly fine. I don’t mind really. Anything’s better than sitting around headquarters with nothing to do.” Hesitating slightly, Aventurine lowers his voice. “And…I’m sorry about your family, I didn’t know.”
“It’s quite alright, I don’t often delve into my personal life with just anyone.”
“I must be a rarity for you then.” It’s meant to be a lighthearted joke, something to lift the mood. However Ratio just sighs.
“You are far more than just some random stranger, Aventurine.” If Ratio’s goal is to throw Aventurine off, he’s doing a damn good job of it. Perhaps along the way, Aventurine misinterpreted him again because he certainly didn’t believe the good doctor tolerated him beyond a professional relationship. Well…at least until now. That’s not true, he’s seen it plenty of times; he just refuses to acknowledge it .
“Aw, am I really that special to you Doc?” He tries, hoping Ratio catches on to the secretly veiled question hidden within. Are we truly as close as I wish to be?
“Of course. Why else would I allow you into my home and share such personal matters with you? There is far less distance between us than you seem to believe.”
Aventurine stares at Ratio dumbfoundedly. A bitter anxiety fills its way up his throat. When was the last time anyone outwardly said such a thing to him? In all honesty he can’t even remember if his sister considered him as a close relative beyond blood ties. Sure she loved him dearly, but he’s always harbored doubts due to being his clan’s blessed savior. So to hear Ratio express this so nonchalantly as though it were the most obvious thing in the universe…
Nervously, he picks at the hem of his sleeves, grateful that the scholar can’t see him fumbling in his own mind. Although Ratio is probably perceptive enough to tell that the prolonged silence means Aventurine doubts the truth. At least Ratio is kind enough to keep his thoughts to himself this time.
“Well, I…I guess time will tell then, huh? You’re stuck with me as your caretaker for the time being. Let’s see how fast you’ll change your mind and kick me to the curb.” He chuckles, standing up from his seat and continuing before Ratio could protest. He needs to do something, anything other than continue this conversation lest he spouts words he wishes to keep close to his heart for now. “So, my dear dependee, is there anything you’d like? I’m your humble servant, command me as you wish.”
A pinched frown forms on Ratio’s face, presumably at the terminology used, but he shakes his head to dismiss whatever retort he had in mind.
“It’s nearing lunch hour, so would you be opposed to eating with me?” Ratio politely offers, just as any dutiful host would.
“Not at all. What would you like? I can order anything, my treat.” Pulling out his phone, Aventurine starts looking up the local restaurants.
“No need. I have food in my kitchen. Specifically leftovers I’d rather not waste.” Ratio stands, moving effortlessly to his kitchen. “You can manage heating up food, right Gambler?”
“What do you take me for? Of course I can.” No, he can’t, but Ratio doesn’t need to know that. Pocketing his phone, Aventurine hurries after the scholar. There was a reason why Jade banned him from using the office kitchen, but how hard can just heating up leftovers be?
Ratio opens his fridge, hesitating slightly before reaching in and patting around until he finds what he’s looking for, and hands it off to Aventurine. Not exactly sure what to do, Aventurine places the perfectly wrapped dish on the counter and turns back to Ratio for his next instructions.
“Just preheat the oven; 180 degrees.”
“Right, okay.” Turning to the oven, Aventurine stares blankly at the appliance. “Ratio?”
“Yes?”
“Where is the preheat button?”
“Preheat- What? Aventurine it’s an oven .” Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose, “Have you ever used an oven before?”
“Uh…only once, and let's just say my divine luck does not extend to culinary.” It isn’t his fault he doesn’t know how to operate basic appliances. Jade’s crash course in Stoneheart etiquette did not include how to cook, only how to order the food. “Listen, I’ll do my best to not burn down the kitchen I promise. Just…guide me a bit okay?”
“All you have to do is turn the oven dial to the right temperature. There’s a light on the stove burner, it will turn on when it’s finished.” Ratio’s hands glide across the counters until he reaches the stove and points in the general direction as he gives his instructions. Aventurine follows with his eyes, spotting the light that was mentioned right next to the word preheat .
This is easy enough, he supposes. After carefully turning the oven dial, which fills him with a vague sense of accomplishment, the oven begins to heat up.
“All set! How long does this normally take?” If only Ratio could see the prideful smile on Aventurine’s face.
“Upwards of about twenty minutes depending on how hot it needs to be. I suggest checking back in about fifteen minutes just to be sure.” Ratio turns back to his fridge, opening it again. “While we wait we can indulge in a little appetizer. I have some pita bread in the bread box on the other counter.”
Spotting said bread box, Aventurine pulls out the pita bread and sets it on the counter as Ratio presents a small bowl. Setting it down, Ratio uncovers the bowl and motions Aventurine to try what he assumes is some kind of dip. The pita is opened, and Ratio breaks a piece in half, handing it over to Aventurine. He isn’t particularly opposed to trying new things, but his upbringing left him with a rather…plain taste in palette. Flavors unknown to him make him cautious. There had been many times where Aventurine had to force himself to finish dishes despite his dislike towards it. He was trained to be fluent in pleasing people, and that included accepting many client dinners with cuisines Aventurine would rather avoid. Still, even with his fleeting expectations he decides to give Ratio the courtesy he deserves.
Aventurine dips his bread into the creamy sauce, bringing it to his mouth to bite into it. His eyes widen in surprise. It’s not often that he gets to be impressed by some new cuisine, but this is the perfect blend of refreshing with the slightest hint of tanginess. If the two of them weren’t sharing a bowl, he may have dared to double dip. Ratio is silent, waiting idly for a response that was a little more verbal. Quickly finishing his mouthful, Aventurine wipes off the bits of bread crumbs from the corner of his mouth.
“It’s good. Really good.” Aventurine smiles at the way Ratio visibly perks up with the praise. “What is this?”
“Homemade tzatziki. A very common spread from my home planet, but a personal favorite nonetheless.” Seemingly satisfied by Aventurine’s reaction, Ratio finally tears a portion of the bread for himself and dips it into the sauce. There’s a touch of melancholy to his words, Aventurine senses, almost as though Ratio were reminiscing home through the taste of this delightful spread.
“I can tell why it’d be so widely loved. It really is delightful.” Aventurine sneaks a second dip in, using the non-bitten side of his bread before finishing it off with a pleased hum. “I’d ask for the recipe, but I doubt I’d make much use of it.”
“I could teach you if you’d like, it’s quite easy. No cooking necessary.”
“Oh? Well, isn’t that a tempting offer.” Grabbing a napkin from a nearby holder, Aventurine reaches over to Ratio to wipe away a bit of sauce that had made its way onto the man's lip. “Already making a mess of yourself? You’re going to make my job so much harder.”
Ratio frowns, swatting the blond’s hand away. Aventurine only smiles as he notes the light tint of red on the Doctor's cheeks.
“You don’t need to infantilize me. This is just a learning curve, I don’t expect you to fret over me all day. Not to say I don’t appreciate the help. I’m just not used to it..” Breaking another slice of bread in half, Ratio hands the piece over to his companion. Aventurine thanks him and reassures the doctor he won’t become an overbearing carer.
For the next few minutes the two talk idly about work, where Ratio goes into a little more detail about his role on Hombert-σ. In addition to discovering new species of fungi and other plant life, Ratio had volunteered to help research any medical benefits these new lifeforms could provide. It’s just they didn’t expect a younger researcher on the team to be overconfident enough to end up so careless on the field, and Ratio being the person he is, stepped in to help without any regard for his own health.
In the midst of their conversation, Aventurine is alerted that the oven light came on, and with mildly stressed concern, Ratio guides him on how to safely place the dish into the oven without burning himself. Then with a timer set, they begin another waiting session.
This time, Aventurine takes the lead on the topic, informing Ratio on his progress with the effects of Nihility and his recent ‘graduation’ from the Doctor of Chaos’s help. He should have expected Ratio to ask about his situation. They both have evaded talking about it up until now. Aventurine can see how the doctor hesitates when asking for further information. It hurts a little to see it; Aventurine must have really touched a nerve back on Penacony. Hopefully he’ll be able to make up for it while he’s here to help.
Even with the nagging background tension, Aventurine finds it easy to speak to Ratio. Falling back into the casual, light hearted way they had grown to share.
Aventurine is still suffering from some side effects, but it’s no longer as troublesome as it was in the beginning. His much needed vacation was indeed enjoyable, however Aventurine did find the lack of work to be boring after a while. This type of comfortable conversation was something he missed dearly. No one but his beloved doctor was able to make Aventurine feel this at ease. He even casually jokes that Ratio saved him from boredom, even if the situation was unfortunate.
The lecture Ratio starts on about making light of the situation is inevitable. Though Aventurine’s solution of shoving a tzatziki covered piece of bread into the scholar’s mouth is far more effective in ending the debate. They continue like this, casually talking until Aventurine squeezes in a tease that Ratio couldn’t help but protest against, and is countered with another mouthful of tzatziki bread.
By the time the timer goes off he’s successfully force-fed the scholar the rest of the bread, and Aventurine’s face is starting to ache from laughter. With an uncharacteristic pout, Ratio directs Aventurine to take their actual meal out of the oven.
“I have oven mitts in the drawer to the left of the stove. Please use them so you don’t harm yourself.”
“I’m not that careless, Doc.” Aventurine opens the draw to see two bright yellow mitts. Pulling them out, he can’t help but chuckle. “You have duck themed oven mitts? That’s quite adorable, Ratio.”
He slips the mitts on, opening the oven and carefully pulling the dish from the rack to the counter. A lovely, hearty aroma fills the kitchen and Aventurine can already feel his stomach rumbling in interest.
“I just have an affinity for ducks.” Ratio feels around the cabinets until he finds his plates and hands them over to Aventurine, who carefully cuts out equal portions for the both of them. “This is moussaka. Forgive me, I should have mentioned the name earlier. It’s an eggplant casserole with meat sauce and bechamel sauce; I do hope you enjoy it.”
Ratio hands over the cutlery as Aventurine finishes setting the dining table. They sit together at the table, Ratio already breaking his portion into bite size pieces with ease. Aventurine follows suit, his fork gliding through the layers of eggplant. It wasn’t often Aventurine was treated to any form of a homemade meal. In all honesty, he couldn’t remember the last time he even had one. Tentatively he takes his first bite.
Again he is surprised. It is rich and savory, but not overwhelming like many of the other dishes of similar set up Aventurine has been forced to eat during too many of his client appointments.
“Another success, Ratio. This is delightful.” He’s tempted to shovel the food into his mouth, but this is a meal worth savoring. Another thing he misses from his time with Ratio: he’s the only person who’s ever been able to introduce new cuisine that Aventurine not only can tolerate, but ends up loving.
“Thank you. It’s better fresh, so if you’re interested, perhaps I could teach you how to make this as well as the tzatziki while you’re here.” Aventurine watches amusedly as Ratio brings his fork to his mouth carefully and slowly with each bite so he doesn’t miss. It’s going to take Ratio some time to gather the confidence to eat like normal again, but for now, Aventurine relishes in the fact that he gets to freely witness this more unrefined side of Ratio.
More small talk fills the space between their bites of food until they finish their meal. Aventurine, being the gentleman he is, takes their plates and leaves them in the sink. He’ll wash them properly later so Ratio doesn’t have to worry about it. It’s an oddly…domestic change of pace compared to his own routine, but he doesn’t mind it. The good doctor has always helped Aventurine when asked, even extending a hand when he kept quiet in his times of need. No one else in the universe –besides maybe Jade– has seen Aventurine drunkenly rant and cry about his less than stellar life. No one else had taken him home, made sure his shoes were taken off, given water and tucked him into bed. Even if he couldn’t fully remember those drunken nights, he knows it was Ratio who took care of him and left him neatly written notes wishing him well.
Doing the dishes is the least he could do as repayment. Even as they move from the table back to the living room, Aventurine does his due diligence asking if Ratio needed anything; a blanket, a drink, maybe a book– well actually maybe not a book.
After a few minutes of pestering, Ratio sighs and settles on asking his meddling caretaker for a simple glass of water and to just turn on the T.V. for some background noise. When Aventurine sits back down with his own glass of water, Ratio has closed his eyes.
It feels a bit awkward for Aventurine to be sitting in silence like this. He’s used to filling in the space with fancy words or small talk, however, he doesn’t want to disturb Ratio’s rest – the poor man has probably had it up to his neck with the blond’s fussing by now. He focuses on the show that was playing; it’s some educational program beyond his understanding, but the machinery they’re showing off seems interesting enough to capture his attention.
“Aventurine.” A while later, Ratio’s voice startles him, taking his attention away from the show. The scholar was now looking in his general direction but seemed to be a little uneasy. Nervous even. Aventurine can’t recall a time where he’s seen Ratio anxious; this whole ordeal must really be bothering him. “Forgive me for asking so suddenly, but could I touch you?”
Aventurine promptly chokes on his drink.
“ What – I’m sorry?” Frantically, he wipes at his mouth ignoring how embarrassing that would have been if Ratio could see. How the man didn’t catch the absurdity of his wording left Aventurine almost speechless.
“Your face, I would like to try my hand at mapping it out. You can refuse, I do not wish to intrude on your personal space.” Ratio shifts in his seat; he almost seems shy about asking this. The scholar is known for not being big on physical contact, so for Ratio to openly ask it must have taken some courage on his part.
And, well, who would Aventurine be if he denied such a request? As if his heart isn’t threatening to break out of his ribcage at the thought of Ratio’s hands on him in such an intimate way .
“Oh. Right. That’s fine.” He moves closer to Ratio, close enough that just the slightest movement and their knees would brush. Aventurine flinches when their knees do touch as Ratio shifts himself closer. They’ve sat this close together before, hell, Aventurine jokingly clung to Ratio’s arm the day prior without any issues. So why did this feel so…nerve wracking? Raising his hands, Ratio reaches for Aventurine’s face. There shouldn't be so much anticipation as Aventurine wraps his fingers loosely around the doctors wrists. Ratio is warm in his hold, though the prosthetic’s framing feels odd under his fingers. It’s cold and mechanical. Aventurine briefly wonders if Ratio’s left arm will ever regain its own mobility back. He shakes the thought away, instead helps guide Ratio’s hands to his face, letting them settle on either side of his head.
Aventurine can’t help but hold his breath as Ratio just… holds him. He doesn’t make much effort to move at all, almost like he is frozen in place with his hands cupping the sides of Aventurine’s face. Wide eyed, Aventurine can do little more than stare ahead, focusing on the starry expanse of Ratio’s eyes. From this proximity he can even make out the faintest hint of gold under all the inky blueness of the rash across Ratio’s eyes and down the left side of his face.
Whatever stupor Ratio was under slowly slips away, and his hands move further up Aventurine’s face.
Ratio’s touch is light, tentative as he positions his thumbs at Aventurine’s hairline and slowly trails downward. He smooths over well maintained eyebrows, ghosting over watchful eyes as they flutter shut only to open again when the gentle caress brushes across Aventurine’s cheekbones. It’s completely possible that Ratio can feel the heat rising to his cheeks, but the scholar doesn’t comment on it as he focuses on tracing the shape of Aventurine’s nose. Ratio’s face softens when he gets to his lips. A feather-light flick of his thumb traces over a defined cupid's bow and the fullness of his bottom lip once– twice– three times before Aventurine’s heart leaps to his throat.
It feels like too much, whatever this is. Aventurine parts his lips slightly, the question on his tongue fizzling out as he finds himself completely and utterly trapped.
Trapped in a moment of tenderness he’s never experienced before. This is too intimate, with the way Ratio’s thumb just lingers there at the corner of Aventurine’s mouth. He can’t breathe; just like his voice, his lungs are frozen in blind anticipation. Ratio’s eyes droop as his expression becomes more pensive.
Aventurine can’t bring himself to figure out what’s going through the Doctor’s mind. Time only resumes when Ratio’s eyes lift again and he leans closer. The rapid beating of Aventurine’s poor heart fills his ears– because really? What was happening? His eyes squeeze shut in a feeble attempt to hide from the person who isn’t even able to see him. Only when a gentle weight falls against his forehead does he open his eyes again.
He’s never been this close to Ratio. Close enough for their noses to brush against each other; for their breaths to share the same space. Ratio’s hands move back to fully cup Aventurine’s face as his uninjured hand slowly caresses the blond’s cheek. Whatever force holding Aventurine back dissipates and he leans into the touch, letting his own hand curl around Ratio’s.
“Thank you.” It is barely a breath of affirmation from Ratio, but it holds so much weight. Aventurine’s voice is still gone, though there isn’t any need to say anything back. He only leans further into Ratio’s embrace to cherish this rare moment of vulnerability between them.
Oh doctor, do you even know what you do to me? You make it so hard to be in denial. Coaxing my heart out, leaving it bare and raw against your inviting embrace. It scares me, yet I don’t think I can hold back for much longer.