Work Text:
Prompt 1: a newfound gentleness
Riku doesn't expect much physical contact with Vanitas, if any. He approaches acclimating Vanitas to a gentler life like he's seen Sora do with feral kittens. Riku would never say as much, but the similarities are uncanny.
Vanitas usually sits across the living room from Riku whenever he emerges from his room. Today, Vanitas chooses the spot next to Riku, not seeming to mind how their bodies are pressed together on a couch for four.
Riku offers him slice of dried mango. Vanitas takes it and tears a bite out of it.
"It's good." Vanitas grumbles, mouth full. Riku smiles.
Prompt 2: take my hand and hold it tight
"I don't need you here," Vanitas gripes, "I'm not a child."
"I know."
"So why won't you leave?"
Riku settles on the stool next to Vanitas provided by the tattoo artist. "Just in case."
Before Vanitas can fling more spite at Riku, the tattooer clears their throat. "Ready?"
"Yeah, yeah, just do it!"
The tattooer's brows flick up with a shake of their head, then they get to work. At the first meeting of needle to flesh, Vanitas curses; the tattooer stops.
Riku holds his hand out. "Take my hand and squeeze, okay?"
Vanitas hesitates, but does as Riku suggests.