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You're here where you should be
Espresso didn’t consider himself to be the lonely type. Not a bit, for he didn’t have time for such feelings. Or anything for that matter, and it certainly didn’t help that he was with the person he disliked most.
Said person was currently chattering about his adventures abroad, which had recently landed him in Parfaedia. Conveniently, Espresso also happened to be here with his cousin, Latte. Much to the coffee mage’s chagrin, his cousin had dragged him here alongside her boyfriend; Almond.
Another thing, it was the very beginning of the Christmas season. Espresso’s least favorite time of year.
Initially, Espresso had planned on spending the holidays alone. Again. He didn’t have the money to spend on gifts for someone he didn’t see for more than half the year. Or himself for that matter. Though, rent was definitely better in the Vanilla Kingdom. Yet, some part of him still shouted that he didn’t have the funds to spend anything on anyone— or on himself.
Snow is falling as the carolers sing
Espresso was only half paying attention to what Madeleine was saying, as his thoughts were landing elsewhere. However, this didn’t go unnoticed by his unwanted companion. “Espresso? Are you even paying attention?” The infernal man’s stupidly charming voice asked, his tone showcasing no accusation despite how he worded it.
“Hm? I was just thinking about how much more efficient this conversation could be. Considering we could not be talking at all; and I could be working.” Espresso frankly replied, crossing his arms and watching where he was walking as the snow crumpled underneath his feet. In the distance, he could faintly hear carolers singing to townsfolk. He resisted a smile.
It just wasn't the same
“What? It’s the holidays! Surely, you’d be spending time with those who matter most rather than prattling on about work!” Madeleine protested, though he was hardly shocked. Espresso had always been a workaholic, and for good reason! He did still have to keep the lights on, and his research on Coffee Magic wasn’t exactly a well-paid career. Although he couldn’t admit that he did have time. He just didn’t know how to deal with the fluttering in his chest whenever he was around the paladin, or the smile that always seemed to creep up on his face whenever the blond got to talking about his travels.
“Prattling? My Coffee Magic is far more noteworthy than your meandering travels!” The mage scoffed, though a faint blush on his cheeks proved Madeleine right: somewhere deep down, he wanted to spend time with the paladin. “Hmm… it seems to me like you need something warm and sweet to get rid of that cold shoulder! Haha!” The knight commander joked, but the brunet knew what he was up to.
“Madeleine, I’m not being dragged to some up-done coffee shop that I can’t afford— not in time nor money!” Espresso chided, though he definitely could go for something sweet right about now.
“Nonsense! It’s on me, my friend!” The blond sent his signature grin, all of which made his heart skip a beat. He hated that stupid smile.
Alone on Christmas day
“…Fine. However, I refuse to stay for longer than half an hour.” Espresso sighed, acknowledging that if he just gave in that it would go by faster than if he argued. Formidable as the blond may be, he was as stubborn as a mule.
Madeleine gave an eager grin, grabbing Espresso’s hand and striding with haste in the direction of one of Parfaedia’s most expensive coffee shops. The mage’s heart couldn’t be happier with the contact, hand in hand. Could it?
—
“So, that pretty much catches you up on my journeys! Impressed, I’m sure.” Madeleine flaunted, looking Espresso directly in his pale pink eyes. “Hardly, yet quite the interesting tale nonetheless.” Was all the brunet said, averting his gaze to the side as he took a long sip of his coffee.
Though the mage reluctantly admitted it to himself, he would never utter his shameful confession to anyone else.
He had feelings for Madeleine.
It was quite difficult to tell at first what these feelings were, but now that Espresso came to terms with them, it was almost ridiculous how he hadn’t known before. The pounding of his heart, the sweating of his palms, his snake-like pupils dilating whenever he was around the blond, it was all so subtle. Yet, it was so different. Espresso hated different… but he couldn’t help but ache for more time with Madeleine.
Presents, what a beautiful sight
The paladin smiled, his sky bright eyes staring down Espresso’s own before he chuckled. “Tell me about your own travels. What’s the Vanilla Kingdom like?” Madeleine murmured, almost as if he were whispering a secret. The mage almost spat out his coffee.
“Well, it certainly has a better cost of living than the Créme Republic. No cold sneers whenever I walk past a neighbor, either. It’s peaceful.” Espresso began, before a warm smile crept up on his face. “I reside with someone named Strawberry Crepe, and they’re quite the character. A child, yes, but a prodigy at that.” The coffee mage took a bite of his donut.
“In a specific instance, they had recently fixed one of their WaffleBots. They had been struggling on this one for quite some time, although they refused to admit that…” His smile faltered slightly, before it widened bigger than before, “…and then we got donuts to celebrate. We got jelly-filled ones, though when Crepe took a bite—“ He started to snicker, closing his eyes for a moment and looking down at his coffee. “Crepe got jelly all over their face.” He chuckled, looking down at Madeleine’s own donut.
He could only imagine how Madeleine and Strawberry Crepe’s first meeting would go, and how the kid would react to the paladin’s stories. They’d probably laugh right in his face, telling him how he’d probably made it up, and the paladin would get all rattled and thrown off. Madeleine would probably laugh it off, and then proceed to prove Crepe right to an extent. He did tend to over exaggerate.
Don't mean a thing if you ain't holding me tight
In that instance he could imagine Madeleine there with them, how his laugh would sound. The warm smile he’d give, not the typical kind he usually gave. That imperfect one, the kind that Espresso would flip tables for. Those pretty blue eyes would sparkle with joy, and—
“Espresso? Earthbread to Espresso!” Madeleine laughed, following the mage’s gaze to his donut. “What, did you want this?” Madeleine joked, before he swiftly grabbed it and took a large bite, leaving the cream filling to eject out of the donut and into the table. At this, Espresso laughed slightly harder than he had expected.
“Hey, I’m not going to take it from you! It’s all yours, you clearly want it!” Espresso snorted, watching as the paladin ran a finger through the cream that landed on the table and licking it off. “It’s too good to pass up, sorry!” Madeleine spoke with his mouth full, before swallowing it all.
You're all that I need
Espresso chuckled again, finding it hard to cease. All of his senses screamed that he needed to get back to his research, but his heart couldn’t care less. The mage opened his mouth to say something, “Oh, I—“ but he suddenly stopped himself. He didn’t know why.
Madeleine looked up curiously, tilting his head in interest. Espresso, suddenly feeling sheepish, made haste to cover up his fumble. “I need to get back to my research.” He said, quickly standing up and walking off.
“Farewell, my friend!” Madeleine let him walk off, surely plastering on a smile for anyone who was looking. Once the mage left the warm atmosphere of the coffee shop, his heart sank.
Underneath the tree
—
At his temporary residence, as the mage liked to call it, Espresso didn’t have much to do besides work. It was just how he was conditioned, after all. Sometimes the brunet felt like his research was all he knew, and all there was to him.
But with Madeleine, everything was different. The paladin saw him as a person, albeit a very grumpy one. Yet, he still lingered around him regardless of that. Espresso questioned how someone with an ego as big as Madeleine’s could see something in him, or even if he even felt the same way that the mage did.
Tonight I'm gonna hold you close
What a wonderful world it would be if Madeleine did feel the same way. All the things they could do together, even if they weren’t special at all. To Espresso, what mattered most was the short moments. The small tokens of appreciation they would give each other.
From slow mornings filled with the scent of coffee, where they’d take their time waking up alongside one another. Perhaps in this instance, Madeleine would much prefer dumping an entire cup of sugar and creamer in his coffee, to which Espresso would grumble and grimace that it was a disgrace to the coffee’s existence— and all Madeleine would do is laugh.
Maybe it’d be quiet moments where it would rain, and they would huddle close together under a blanket. Madeleine’s head might be on his lap while Espresso was reading a book, perhaps even a romance novel just to indulge himself. Sometimes he might put the novel down to play with the paladin’s long hair, or even give him a quick kiss.
Make sure that you know
How wonderful it would be, indeed. However, the mage doubted that the knight commander felt the same way. What exactly did Madeleine see in him?
“Never matter.” Espresso sighed, not wanting to upset himself more than he needed to be. For what purpose was there to sulk in his own mind? He wouldn’t ever know unless he asked, of course.
I was lost before you
But that was just it. Espresso was too afraid to ask.
He’d never live it down if Madeleine rejected him, or worse— if he fell for a straight man. Espresso thought of that option a lot, and how embarrassing it’d be if it were true. Regardless, he would work on building up the courage.
Christmas was cold and grey
Looking outside, it was dark. On top of that, there was a blizzard. Espresso took a sip of his coffee, continuing to write down on his notepad. He needed to do more research, considering that he hadn’t fully scoped out any remnants of knowledge others before him had left on anything similar to Coffee Magic.
Another holiday alone to celebrate
However, it didn’t seem like he’d be going out anytime soon with the weather being the way it was. Unfortunate.
So Espresso made way to his bookshelf, grabbing a book and sitting down on his fairly unused couch. Without even finishing the first line, Espresso heard a knock at his door.
“Who in their right mind could be knocking in this weather?” Espresso said out loud to himself, but he already had a good idea on who it could be. Setting down his book on the coffee table, he stood up to answer the door.
But then one day everything changed
Opening the door, Espresso’s heart was doing backflips. He was met with the sight of a very cold, yet very happy Madeleine. “Espresso!” He exclaimed, seemingly out of breath. “I’ve been all across town!” He laughed, before ducking his head to the side to cough into his arm.
“I can see that.” Espresso chuckled, before shivering himself as a gust of wind blew into his face. “Come inside, it’s too cold out there.” Espresso suggested, but it was more of an order than a suggestion.
Madeleine smiled gratefully, sniffling from the cold. “What were you doing around town? You could very well get sick, you oaf.” Espresso scolded, walking over to the couch to sit. Madeleine coughed again, and then sneezed.
“…Maybe I spoke too soon.” Espresso chuckled, though nothing about the situation seemed humorous.
You're all I need
“Come sit. I’ll be right back.” Espresso spoke, patting the spot next to him and briefly standing up. He then strode to the kitchen, having set out to make a hot cocoa for the paladin.
Hearing some ruffling in the next room, the brunet assumed he had lied down as well as covered up. Espresso put a kettle of water on the stove, walking up to the cupboards to gather his needed ingredients. Hot cocoa powder, whipped cream, and of course, marshmallows.
When the kettle started to whistle, he picked it up, and poured the steaming water into a mug. Setting the kettle down onto a burner that wasn’t on, he added a little over three tablespoons into the mug. With a pile of whipped cream, extra cocoa powder on top of that, and for the figurative cherry on top: a handful of marshmallows, Madeleine’s hot cocoa was complete.
“I’ll bring you more blankets in a moment, Madeleine. For now though, here.” He held out the warm mug, offering an even warmer smile. “Th- thanks Espresso! Awfully kind of you.” Madeleine stammered, his hands shaking slightly as he took the offered mug. He took a sip, and immediately melted into the couch. “Just the right amount of everything! Thanks, Essy.”
The nickname caught the mage off guard, his face flushed and heart beating faster by the minute. “No problem.” He recovered quickly, clearing his throat and walking to the storage closet. He pulled out a thick, brown blanket with gold coffee beans on it, and walked back to the paladin. Carefully, he draped the blanket over the paladin’s shoulders and partially on his lap.
“You never answered my question earlier.” The mage brought up, his curiosity eating away at him. He sat down next to the blond, making sure to keep a reasonable distance in order to not make things awkward or uncomfortable. For the knight commander, at least. “Mm?” Madeleine made a confused noise, sipping away at his hot cocoa.
Espresso made a huff of mock annoyance, something that they both knew was a fabricated gesture. “Why were you outside in this weather? You had to have known there was going to be a blizzard.” Espresso questioned, grabbing the book from the coffee table and began to read once more.
Underneath the tree
For a long moment, it was quiet. Besides the nearly-silent sipping of hot cocoa, the turning of pages, as well as the ticking of a wall clock. After that moment, Madeleine was the first to speak up, given that he had been asked a question. He leaned forward, placing his almost-finished drink on the coffee table.
“Well…” He began, laughing slightly. “I bought something for you.” He explained, shuffling out of his pile of blankets, shivering, and reaching into a bag that the mage hadn’t noticed that he brought. He pulled out a book, one in particular that interested Espresso.
“I remembered you said you used to like romance novels, so I figured it’d be a nice continuation of staying away from work… although I don’t doubt you haven’t been doing much of that already.” Madeleine chuckled, holding the thick, hard-covered novel out for Espresso to take.
It was a kind gesture, one that the mage wouldn’t have expected from the usually self-centered paladin. He wasn’t even sure if he liked romance novels, considering his life was slowly becoming a rollercoaster of emotions already.
You're here where you should be
But when faced with it, he couldn’t help but smile. “Thank you, Madeleine.” He said, taking the offered book. He didn’t usually receive gifts, so he was unsure how to thank the paladin besides a quick smile and ‘thank you.’ His heart was beating a staccato rhythm, a symphony of love and appreciation that his mind simply couldn’t catch up to express.
His pupils were dinner plates, looking at Madeleine for longer than he should be. However, he had a feeling that the blond didn’t mind it— if his own heated cheeks was anything to go by. Or was he just cold?
Considering that he shuffled back under the blankets, this seemed to be so. Espresso resisted the urge to frown, instead turning his attention to the book and flipping it over. He read the back, already imagining himself and Madeleine over the other characters.
Snow is falling as the carolers sing
It was a cute little story, but the real dilemma was whether or not he should indulge on it. However, figuring that the paladin meant this as a kind gesture and nothing more, Espresso decided against it… as well as to treat himself. If only a little.
—
Once again, Espresso was alone. Oddly enough, he wasn’t working. A grand feat in the eyes of others, but for the coffee mage, he was having immense anxiety.
He was shaking, eyes darting off to his lab equipment every minute or so. Heart pounding, but not in the same fluttering manner that Madeleine typically brought him. His mind was screaming for him to get up and get to work, that he wouldn’t get paid like this.
Espresso was reading the novel Madeleine bought him, but he wasn’t paying it any mind. His mind was already quite preoccupied, considering that he was in a conditioned environment for work, yet wasn’t functioning the ‘work’ part.
It didn’t help that he was always constantly thinking of Madeleine, on top of having anxiety. Sometimes he wished he never fell for the paladin. Why’d he have to be the first one?
It just wasn't the same
Then again, Espresso could at least admit that it was nice to feel something different from what he thought was disdain for Madeleine. Even so, he couldn’t just live with these feelings forever. He needed to do something with them!
But what could he possibly do? It’s not like Madeleine has shown signs of reciprocating his feelings.
Had he?
If there was one thing Espresso was, it was a skeptic. He was always looking for answers, always the one asking all the questions. After all, without his skepticism, he wouldn’t have discovered the science of Coffee Magic.
That was just it, Espresso’s nature called for his skepticism of whether or not the blond felt the same way he did.
It’s not like the signs were obvious, if the brunet’s own recognition and acceptance of his own emotions were anything to go by. No, the mage supposed that he would have to drop the signs himself— and hoped that Madeleine would be able to pick up on it.
Espresso looked back down at the book, then back over at his equipment. With a sigh, he told himself that he was better off now, that he could allow himself to enjoy small moments of brief breaks.
Upon realizing what he had just thought, his eyes widened. What was Madeleine doing to him?
It’s only been a few weeks with having these feelings, and now he was taking breaks? Espresso didn’t know who he was anymore. Though, it was only logical that this was the case— love, after all, is when you meet someone who tells you something new about yourself.
Oh, how Espresso wished this wasn’t the case. If he had any choice, he’d keep himself exactly the same, but that was illogical and irrelevant.
Looking hesitantly back down at his book, he began to get absorbed into the story. It was nice, reading about the same struggles he was having; and when the two characters got together, he imagined that someday that could be him and Madeleine… and maybe even they could be lost in each other’s embrace.
Alone on Christmas day
—
Loneliness gnawed at the mage. Despite being around the one he considered the cause of all his newest problems, Madeleine, he felt as if he needed something more.
Right now, Espresso was listening to Madeleine ramble about which Christmas dessert was the best and which was the worst. “Oh, and there’s always fruitcake! Disgusting, if you ask me, haha!” He gave that hearty laugh, sending a wave of nervous joy through the mage.
Presents, what a beautiful sight
Inside the warm embrace of Espresso’s temporary residence, he felt more open to dropping hints at his intentions. He had given a couple of indications already, but the paladin wasn’t picking any of it up. Surely, he was being too subtle.
Never matter, he’d just have to pick up the slack a little.
“Oh and I happen to think that although cupcakes aren’t exactly considered specifically a Christmas dessert, they should absolutely count! They’re delicious! Especially the ones my aunties make.” Madeleine grinned, fiddling with his hair and tilting his head at Espresso with that look of small yet largely noticeable joy in his eyes. The mage resisted the urge to jump over the breakfast table and kiss the man. He smiled as he tilted his head back at the paladin. “I think that madeleines are especially good.” He murmured, his pale pink eyes searching the blond’s.
“I don’t believe that madeleines are a Christmas dessert, Espresso.” Madeleine laughed, drumming his fingers on the table. His facial expression nor his reply gave anything away.
Don't mean a thing if you ain't holding me tight
Espresso didn’t frown; he didn’t want to ruin the moment. Instead, he tried once more. He’d take any response at this point— it’d be better to be led to the correct way through his feelings rather than wandering aimlessly. “No, but they could be.” Espresso tentatively placed his hand over Madeleine’s own. Not entwining, simply lying.
“Plausibly.” Madeleine replied, his face expression the same as before. The clock chimed, but neither of them moved. Espresso, silently longing, did not receive an explicit answer.
“I… do believe I have to go,” Madeleine suddenly spoke, interrupting the silence. He stood abruptly, the floor creaking under the sudden concentrated weight of his body atop his feet. His long, tan fingers made haste to retrieve his fluffy cape.
You're all that I need
Espresso looked down, his smile faltering. “I understand.” His heart ached, and he felt like he could just lie there on the table and die.
“I’ll see you sometime soon, Espresso!” Madeleine’s cheerful voice was almost like a punch in the gut to the coffee mage. It wasn’t that he felt rejected, it’s that he still could not figure out if that was Madeleine’s reaction to his flirtation or if he had something else to do at this time. Why were feelings so hard to understand?
Underneath the tree
—
Espresso couldn’t get behind the idea of Madeleine cowering away at a little flirtation. Surely, he would’ve outright rejected him if he didn’t feel the same way! Madeleine put himself out to be the courageous, brave, prideful type, after all. Why would he abandon that image if he couldn’t handle a little dalliance?
The brunet shoved his face into his hands. He didn’t know what to think— how would he possibly move on from an infatuation as intense as this? How would he know if he even needed to move on?
It was all so dizzying.
Espresso shuffled around in his covers, curling in on himself for warmth. He looked out the window next to his bed, admiring the night sky.
Considering something for a moment, he paused. He couldn’t believe he was doing this.
The mage moved out from his covers, and got on his knees. He opened the window, and propped himself on his elbows. He clasped his hands together, bowing his head down.
“Divines, I know I haven’t shown much faith in you for a long time. Or any time, for that matter.” He began, his brows furrowed. “But… I need your help. A sign, a hint— anything.” He looked up, but not opening his eyes. “I’ve fallen hard, Divines. I’ve never asked for much, I just need to know.” He opened his pale pink eyes, a singular tear escaping and running down his cheek. “Please.” The stars twinkled, and somewhere above, someone was listening.
—
“I have patrolling duty today!” The paladin exclaimed, pouting at the mage. “Then go to do that, Madeleine. You aren’t obliged to come with me, you know?” Espresso huffed, licking his finger and then flipping a page of his romance novel. “Nonsense! I have a project of my own to work on.” Madeleine proclaimed, his brows furrowed in frustration.
They had been going back and forth for at least a good twenty minutes now— both parties had something to do today, yet it had been at least a week since the last time they had seen each other.
“Well? What’s this project of yours that you’re working on?” Espresso asked, a knowing smirk on his face. Madeleine paused, his face heating. “W- well— I— haha! You needn’t worry about my own pursuits!” The paladin stuttered, before he quickly recovered.
“Oh really?” The coffee mage purred, amused at the paladin’s feeble attempts at covering up his reasons for going to the library with Espresso. The brunet wasn’t sure, but he had a thought that the blond was getting something out of going with him. Regardless of this, he let his heart lead before his mind.
“Yes, really! Why do you sound like you don’t believe me?” Madeleine whined, crossing his arms and leaning against the wall.
“You’re very difficult to interpret, Madeleine.” Espresso teased, gazing up at the paladin before he chuckled and looked back down at his novel. Although, Madeleine most likely could only tell half of what he meant. It’s not like Espresso told him that he couldn’t figure out if the blond picked up on his flirting, after all.
“Hey! What’s that supposed to mean?” The knight commander asked, his words accusatory yet his tone was playful. Espresso, considering his next words carefully, replied, “Well, it’s hard to tell if you’re just looking for an excuse to spend time with me.” Espresso spoke, hopefully straightforward enough to get his previous point across to the knight commander. He picked up his mug and took a sip of his coffee, grimacing as the steamy liquid fogged up his glasses.
Madeleine seemed to stop at that, then looked Espresso in his eye. “…Maybe I am.” He grinned, shrugging his shoulders in a gesture that seemed like he was playing it off. He strode over to the couch, sitting down next to the mage. “Maybe I’m not… Maybe I just need to figure something of mine out first.” He hesitantly laid his head on the mage’s shoulder, taking in the subtle scent of his cologne mingled with the intoxicating aroma of something that was uniquely Espresso. The paladin closed his eyes, well-situated and unaware of the swarm of butterflies he sent fluttering through Espresso’s stomach from the simple action.
Said mage froze, unsure how to proceed. This contact was what the brunet wanted, but he was afraid that this could be just a friendly gesture— if it was, reciprocation could scare away Madeleine. So Espresso continued to read, pretending that his cheeks weren’t flushed, and that his focus wasn’t entirely on the paladin.
—
I found what I was looking for
Later on that day, the pair had set out towards one of Parfaedia’s many libraries, walking closer together than necessary. Occasionally, their hands would brush against each other, and eventually they entwined their hands together. Neither of them minded this.
It wasn’t until they reached the library that they realized, the two of them letting go and looking anywhere but where it mattered most— each other.
A love that's meant for me
Espresso and Madeleine were uncharacteristically silent when entering, though this could easily be blamed on the building they were entering. When they opened the large double doors, they were shocked to see that the library was crowded with what seemed to be half the town. At least, it was just compact enough that it appeared that way.
A heart that's mine completely
“Looks like we aren’t the only ones who have plans.” Madeleine muttered, looking around for a moment before glancing at Espresso. “What? Never been in a library before?” The mage playfully taunted, walking ahead of the knight commander and striding to the reference section. The blond followed close behind.
The brunet began to walk slowly, browsing through the plethora of books. He crossed his arms, skimming through sub-sections and lightly tapping his chin. Finally finding what he was looking for, he picked up a rather thick book— a research novel on Dessert Magic.
Knocked me right off my feet
“Didn’t think you’d be one to dabble in Dessert Magic, Espresso.” Madeleine quirked a brow, the book adding to one of the many puzzles that were Espresso. “It’s only logical, Madeleine,” He began, holding the book to his chest,”I have yet to chart the theories and speculations of other researchers who may have misplaced or miscategorized the beginning sparks of Coffee Magic.” Espresso explained, before he began to stroll while droning on about the possibilities of discoveries made before him.
And this year I will fall
Looking around, the mage only saw a small, one-sided booth in the corner for the two to sit. Inside, his heart was racing with the idea of the contact— but his mind told him that it’d be uncomfortable for Madeleine. That was, if the paladin really did see him as a friend, nothing more.
But the mage was surprised to see the paladin trot forward almost eagerly, sitting down and scooting over. Espresso was certain that if Madeleine had a tail, it’d be wagging. So, with any hesitation out of the way, the coffee magsmiled and sat next to Madeleine.
With no worries at all
Opening the book, Espresso began to read. Once more, the knight commander leaned his head on the mage’s shoulder. Rather than tensing up, the brunet reached an uncertain hand around and began to gently string his fingers through Madeleine’s hair— he did know that the paladin didn’t typically appreciate people touching his hair.
'Cause you are near and everything's clear
The blond hummed, leaning into Espresso’s touch. It was only a moment after when Madeleine spoke in a low, hushed voice. “You know, you’ve been acting so different lately. Not the bad different!” He exclaimed, waving his hand in a denying gesture. He then reached his own hand up to a section of his hair the mage wasn’t messing with, beginning to fidget with it. “…I like this different. It’s far from the distanced coffee mage you once were. At least to me, anyway.” Madeleine smiled, twirling his hair around his finger.
You're all I need
Espresso could only grin, knowing that at least something was becoming apparent to the obtuse man: something about the coffee mage was changing. All he needed was for Madeleine to ask himself why, and maybe then he’d truly understand just how important he was becoming to Espresso.
Underneath the tree
—
It was Christmas Eve, and the mage still hadn’t received a singular hint at what Madeleine was truly thinking. It was so frustrating, all he wanted was to have someone special to celebrate Christmas with!
Yes, he did have Latte and Almond. But with them, he always felt like he was just tagging along. Was it so much to ask to have someone to hold? Someone to feel?
You're here where you should be
“Serves me right.” Espresso muttered, setting aside his romance novel and swiftly standing on his feet.
“I shouldn’t attempt to pray to a god who I’ve held no interest in for my whole life. What has praying ever done for me, anyways?” The mage grumbled, crossing his arms as he strode over to his lab equipment.
“What use does one as busy as myself have for romance? I shouldn’t have ever accepted these futile feelings.” Espresso shook his head, taking off his glasses and rubbing his eyes. “They’re unrequited at best. I should have known better than to let that stupid, charming voice fool me— instead I’ve been wasting my precious time with that buffoon!” The coffee mage exclaimed, his breath going rugged.
Snow is falling as the carolers sing
He took a breath, settling his round glasses back on the bridge of his nose. “I mustn’t lose track of what’s important any longer,” He began, enabling his machinery to start. He quickly got to work, manually grinding down coffee beans into a finite powder to begin the process of filtering out their bitter, potent flavor.
And so, the mage’s morning went onwards just so: pouring the coffee powder into a filter, watching as his scientific instrument worked its way through tubes and into a funnel, thus permeating the perfect coffee— just how Espresso liked it. This process typically took a little over twenty minutes, as all good things take time to do.
It just wasn't the same
The aroma of coffee wafted through the air, infiltrating the mage’s senses and soothing his misgivings. For a moment, Espresso’s mind meandered to Madeleine. Did the paladin notice? Did he even care to notice? If he did, why did the blond not say anything? One thought in particular irked Espresso, and that was that he would simply never know… at least before Christmas, that is.
Alone on Christmas day
—
Alas, Christmas day has come! This meant it was a flurry of activity for the people of Parfaedia. At least, for everyone except Espresso. Granted, he had already been visited by Latte and Almond, who had exchanged gifts with him and wished him a happy holiday.
Presents, what a beautiful sight
Of course, he hadn’t told Latte nor Almond about his current dilemma. But of course, his cousin always had a way of knowing things, and so she encouraged him to act out of character— to surprise Madeleine. Latte explained that Espresso needed to be more forward when it came to people like Madeleine, who just so happened to be more of… slow learners.
Don't mean a thing if you ain't holding me tight
With that knowledge, the mage now sat on his couch, covered in blankets to shield him from the winter chill. He hadn’t really explained to Latte that he had already tried to be as forward as possible, and that Madeleine had simply run away from it. Espresso wasn’t mad at the paladin, far from it. Rather, he was disappointed with himself.
The mage had lost sight of what truly mattered most to him: his research. He had built his life upon it, and if it weren’t for his discoveries of its potential, the brunet couldn’t call himself Espresso Cookie. It was who he was, and he shouldn’t abandon that for someone else— no matter how important they were.
You're all that I need
However, it became apparent to Espresso that no matter how much he told himself that he didn’t need his feelings for the paladin, his heart yearned for his unreciprocated love. He yearned for those moments in his laboratory where the paladin would always stop by to make sure he was taking care of himself, the times where Madeleine would drag him out of his home to take him to the latest events, and even when Madeleine would chase him around in an attempt to burrito-wrap him in a blanket— all for the sake of catching up on missed sleep.
Underneath the tree
Espresso scoffed, crossing his arms as he sat in his still lab. He didn’t appreciate how he missed these moments, or how he was always thinking about someone who was an acquaintance at best. It was always Madeleine, Madeleine, Madeleine. If anything, these occasions were long gone. They had left with the paladin when he had declared he would travel all of Earthbread.
“Enough of this impertinent nonsense! I have work to do.” Espresso grumbled to himself, picking himself up and treading to the counter containing flasks.
Unexpectedly, three knocks sounded from the mage’s door.
And then one day
Espresso ceased any and all ideas of scientific activity that he was thinking of undertaking. For a moment, he didn’t know whether or not to answer the door. If it were Madeleine on his porch, the brunet wasn’t sure if he’d be able to behave normally.
Regardless of whether or not he could resist the urge to shout that he loves Madeleine at the top of his lungs, Espresso went to open the door.
Everything changed
Just as the mage suspected, it was in fact Madeleine. The paladin smiled brightly, holding a rather large, lavishly decorated gift box. “Merry Christmas, Essy!” Madeleine jovially greeted, offering the gift to the mage. Espresso’s eyes widened, and he couldn’t help but grin. “Merry Christmas to you too, Madeleine.” The coffee mage repeated, stepping back to allow the paladin entry.
Said knight commander stepped inside, strode to the couch, sat down, and gently lay the present down on the coffee table. He patted the spot on the couch next to him, looking eagerly at the mage with a twinkle in his eyes. “Come on, open your gift! I’ve been holding onto it for so long!” Madeleine grinned excitedly, bouncing his leg. To Espresso, he seemed a bit too enthusiastic.
You’re all I need
Unbeknownst to the brunet, the blond was truly nervous. He hadn’t been this nervous in a long time, truly! What was in the box would change their relationship, or at least the paladin hoped. Madeleine was doing his best to stay composed, to not fall apart at the seams in a nervous fray. Though, he couldn’t help his flushed face or the frantic springing of his leg— as it was an anxious habit.
The mage closed the door, and walked over to sit down next to Madeleine. “Is there a reason it’s decorated with hearts?” Espresso queried, though it was half a playful jab. He picked up the box, pulled the ribbon that kept the lid on, and lifted the lid off.
Espresso was stunned at the gift's contents.
A beautiful bouquet of red rose and carnations, a very thoughtful donut in a bag— the mage would soon be found devouring it later— a small, framed painting of a coffee bean and a madeleine (which had Madeleine's signature, Espresso noted), and a coffee mug with the words that stole the mage’s heart. I love you.
“There’s more at my own home, if you would like to accompany me there as my lover.” Madeleine spoke, a little more weak than he intended for it to sound. Espresso’s face turned the deepest shade of red, his hands quivering in ecstatic relief. “I— Madel— Oh—“ He stammered, placing both of his hands over his chest.
Underneath the tree
“I do apologize, Madeleine, I’m just so… so delighted.” Espresso smiled shakily, placing the gift box onto the coffee table and turning towards the paladin. “This is the most thoughtful present I’ve ever received… I’d be overjoyed to be your lover.” Espresso finally reached out to the one he cared for most and embraced him, holding him as close as possible.
Madeleine’s own face blossomed a rosy pink blush, his own worries alleviated at the mage’s requited affection. He held Espresso tightly, until he pulled back just the tiniest bit, and dove in for a passionate kiss.
You're here where you should be
Time seemed to still for the newly found couple, the world around them melting away as they lost themselves in each other’s grasp. Their hearts were finally one, racing and prancing through fields of green. They had both wanted this moment to happen for so long, and now that they finally had each other’s hearts in their hands, neither wanted to let go.
Snow is falling as the carolers sing
When the lovers finally did part for air, they were panting and breathless. They simply held each other, gazing deeply into each other’s eyes. After a long silence, Espresso was the first to speak. “You have no idea how long I’ve been yearning for this,” he whispered, as if speaking too loud might scare away his love, “I love you, Madeleine.”
The paladin kissed the mage on the cheek, before whispering back, “I love you too, Espresso.” He murmured, resting his head on the mage’s shoulder. This time, the coffee mage wasn’t nervous to do the same.
It just wasn't the same
“You know, Madeleine, I’ve gotten you something too.” Espresso stroked his fingers through the blond locks that belonged to his beloved paladin, meanwhile melting more and more into the knight commander’s embrace, as with every breath he took, he inhaled the scent of Madeleine’s cologne.
“Did you now?” Madeleine replied, although his question was rhetorical. “It’s in my storage closet.” Espresso stated, alternating between playing with the blond’s hair and rubbing his hands across his back. “Mm. Don’t get up. I want to hold you for a little longer.” Madeleine declared, lying down and bringing Espresso with him. He wrapped his legs around the mage, consequently locking him in place.
Alone on Christmas day
“I’m not going anywhere, Madelle.” Espresso closed his eyes, plainly lying in the knight commander’s hold. “Good.” was all that he said, before giving his lover a quick peck on the lips.
—
Later on that same day, after the two of them had deemed their emotions stable enough to exit the mage’s temporary residence, they strolled hand-in-hand to Madeleine’s own rental home, taking their time to enjoy each other’s company and presence.
Presents, what a beautiful sight
When they were inside, Espresso was surprised to see a bountiful amount of presents that were all allegedly for him— despite already being told this. “Goodness, Madeleine! Could you have spared a coin for yourself?” Espresso exclaimed, looking at the swarm of gifts that took up the majority of the room.
Don't mean a thing if you ain't holding me tight
“Technically… I did. The idea is the hope that you’d be opening all of them as my partner, and the gift is that it became true.” Madeleine smiled sheepishly, his explanation rather cheesy. Espresso chuckled, watching as the paladin shut the door. “Stop it with the corny one-liners, Madelle!” He began to cackle, holding his stomach as he stumbled to the couch. “Good grief, I love you so much!” He plopped down onto the plush cushions, his laughter softening into soft snickers.
You're all that I need
Madeleine laughed heartily along with him, realizing just how painfully cliche his statement was. “So sorry! This is the time I'll ever try to express my love for you!” The knight commander exclaimed gleefully, walking over to one portion of presents and picking it up.
Underneath the tree
“Oh, you’re a filthy liar!” Espresso chuckled, watching as the paladin picked up one of the many presents. He walked back over to Espresso, handing him the small, wrapped box. The mage accepted the offered gift, opening it to find a bag of stardust.
“I thought it’d be helpful to you, considering that you don’t get much sleep— and it doesn’t even alter the taste of your coffee!” Madeleine clasped his hands together, rocking back and forth on his heels. Espresso stayed silent for a second, resisting the urge to pout. “I appreciate the gift, Madeleine.” The coffee mage replied cordially, laying the bag back inside the box and setting it aside.
“I know, I know. Sleep’s not on your schedule… but it really needs to be, Essy. I worry for you. More often than you know.” Madeleine confessed.
“…I recognize the significance of your present and the value of your concern to me, Madeleine… but I simply cannot afford to take these interludes of time between my work. I don’t get paid to take breaks.” Espresso explained, gazing at Madeleine sympathetically.
The paladin pouted, though he quickly recovered. “That’s okay, I understand, Essy!” Madeleine then picked up another present, and the rest of the morning was spent just so.
—
The evening was spent lying on the paladin’s couch and just being with one another, after all the gifts had been unwrapped. Of course, Madeleine was a great gift-giver, considering he primarily grew up around thoughtful people. He had been extremely considerate with his presents, and Espresso loved each one. Even the stardust. After all, it was extremely attentive that Madeleine knew of his terrible sleeping habits and was actively trying to assist. It made the mage feel seen, despite his brain constantly telling him he didn’t need sleep.
From romance books to coffee mug sets, soft, fine cotton sweaters in three colors: brown, black, and white, a recipe book on unique ways to enjoy coffee— as in for baked goods. A robust shelf that was designed to match Espresso’s laboratory, a clock that chimes at noon, so that the mage can keep track of when to take breaks. A brown, black, and gold rug, real gold jewelry, and a good quality rolling chair to encourage the mage to strain himself less.
All of the gifts overwhelmed Espresso at first, but with some time, he understood that it shouldn’t intimidate him, as gift-giving was Madeleine’s love language. Rather, it should encourage him to show his own appreciation for his partner.
You’re all that I need
Now obviously, Espresso hadn’t been empty handed when it came to giving Madeleine a gift. The mage wasn’t certain on what to even get the knight commander, at first. What do you give to a man who has everything? Well, he gave the paladin a hand-made ribbon. One that would represent good luck in his travels, that he could tie around his arm to display their bond. Espresso had enchanted it with Coffee Magic, so that Madeleine was protected at all times.
Thankfully, the paladin was absolutely enthralled with it. In the moment, he had held the brunet close and personally thanked him for it with a passionate kiss. Espresso was glad he favored it.
Together the two sat next to the tree that Espresso hadn’t noticed before, due to it having been previously overshadowed by the sheer amount of presents. The coffee mage’s head was lying on the blond’s lap, with Madeleine telling him stories of his travels while he stroked a gentle hand Espresso’s hair.
Underneath
Then, he reached a hand back and pulled out a mistletoe from his back pocket. He hovered it over the mage, grinning with loving intent.
“Just how long have you been holding onto that?” The brunet teased. “Long enough to want more of your lips pressed against mine.” Madeleine murmured, before gasping as Espresso rolled him onto the floor with him.
As the happy couple lost themselves into a passionate lip-lock, one thing became apparent to them: it was that they would never have to celebrate Christmas alone again.
Underneath the tree