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“Dorm Leader Rosehearts, I really like you!”
When Deuce had asked Riddle to talk in private and lead him to the rose maze garden, this was clearly not what he expected. However, hearing these words does make Riddle feel quite happy as much as he’s surprised of the sudden remark.
Considering how most students’ impression of Riddle, especially after his overblot incident at the beginning of the year, wasn’t the best, hearing one of his trump soldiers admit that they like him gives him a sense of ease and relief.
Riddle clears his throat, a little unsure how to respond since this is the first that someone’s admitted these feelings to him. After a bit of thinking, he settles with “Thank you, Deuce. That’s very appreciated.”
Deuce, who had his head bowed since his confession, looks up at Riddle “Huh?” his expression seemed puzzled from hearing the redhead’s words.
Seeing the other’s reaction, Riddle backtracks a bit, starting to wonder if he had said the wrong thing “I-Is something the matter?” he asks.
“No, I mean… I think you have me mistaken, Dorm Leader. Well, I do like you that way, too. You’re always hardworking, and you’re really powerful and smart. I’ve always looked up to you as a role model, of course.” Deuce starts to iterate, scratching his cheek in a way Riddle found quite adorable “But when I said ‘I like you’ earlier, I mean that in a different way.”
Riddle tilts his head, brow raised in confusion “A different way?”
“Yes, sir. Like… how do I say this? Like… ‘I want to date you’ kind of way. Uhm, basically… I want to be your boyfriend, Dorm Leader Rosehearts.” Deuce further elaborates, his cheeks growing a darker shade of pink the more he does.
“Oh.” Riddle can only say, finally realizing his mistake. Admittedly, he feels a little embarrassed of his own response now after hearing Deuce’s explanation. Although, the happiness of knowing one of his trump soldiers likes him was still present—even if that feeling wasn’t what Riddle initially assumed.
There was an awkward and deafening silence between them as Deuce waits for Riddle’s response, meanwhile, Riddle was also trying to formulate a proper reply to Deuce’s confession. He’s read these types of scenarios in several novels depicting romance so he’s aware how crucial this moment is for the person confessing. It is only unfortunate that as the recipient, he cannot return Deuce’s feelings which makes using those stories as a reference quite insignificant.
Riddle clears his throat, hoping these words would not wound Deuce too much “Deuce,” he calls for the other, noticing how Deuce straightens himself as soon as he heard his name “I appreciate the sentiment, and I do feel honored that you see me in such regard to be able to garner these strong feelings towards me. Unfortunately, I cannot accept nor return these feelings to you.”
And just as he’d suspected, the moment Deuce hears his response, his expression becomes melancholic. Pain and dejection were visible in his eyes and Riddle has to steel himself to not give in and change his mind.
“First of all, we are still students, Deuce. I would prefer to not have any sort of distractions during my time studying. Second, I’ve been raised to hold high standards in regards to choosing a suitable lover in the future. I applaud your courage to present yourself as a possible candidate, however, with your current school standing, sad to say, it immediately disqualifies you as an eligible suitor. I hope you can understand, Deuce.”
The silence continues and Riddle found it just a little bit suffocating. Anxious thoughts swim in his head the longer Deuce doesn’t reply and it’s starting to make him feel antsy. He doesn’t wish to break Deuce’s heart, but he has no choice but to do so when Deuce was not part of the equation regarding Riddle’s future.
Surprisingly, Deuce’s lips curve into an apologetic smile still. He shakes his head “I understand, Dorm Leader. Thank you for taking the time for me, though. And giving me a chance to confess my feelings. I guess I’ll leave you be with your plans for the day. Good bye, sir.”
And with that, Deuce bows and walks off without turning back. Riddle muses that Deuce seemed to have taken his words quite nicely. He imagined he’d be more devastated, but perhaps he was simply overthinking. This wasn’t exactly how he imagined the scenario would go based on the stories he’s read.
Well, they were simply made-up fiction, after all. Perhaps, the situation really does differ in real life.
***
“I like you! Please go out with me!”
Riddle was in the middle of his daily afternoon rounds, inspecting the dorm for anything that needs his immediate attention, walking around the halls in case he catches students breaking rules or simply in need of his assistance. As a Dorm Leader, it is his duty to oversee the state of the dorm as well as the students under his wing, of course.
As he passed by one of the shared rooms where the door was slightly ajar, he overhears this loud confession coming from inside. And he could not be mistaken about who the owner of this voice was.
Curious, Riddle takes a peek from the slight opening to see what the ruckus was about. Inside the shared room was Deuce, as expected, and standing in front of him was the female prefect of Ramshackle Dorm and his friend, Yuu.
What exactly are they doing alone in one of the shared rooms?
Of course, Riddle wasn’t too strict about inviting other dorm students into the rooms as long as they don’t cause any trouble. And with the Ramshackle prefect’s reputation as well as her relationship with their dorm, she and Grim are always welcome in Heartslabyul.
But it does make Riddle wonder why they would be alone in Deuce’s shared room of all places. Not to mention, the words he heard Deuce practically holler just now. Much like the same words he had confessed to Riddle about a month ago.
Could it be… did Riddle just happen upon a romantic confession between them?
He hears Yuu hum “I give it a 5 out of 10.” she ponders and Deuce straightens up with a whine.
“That’s so low! And here I thought I was doing so well!” Deuce complains.
Yuu chuckles at the other’s reaction, giving him an apologetic smile “Sorry, Deuce. It just doesn’t feel too special, you know? Like it’s missing something. I can barely sense that feeling of my heart skipping a beat or my face growing warm.” Yuu tries to explain.
Deuce scratches his head, seeming frustrated “Then… what’s it missing?” he asks.
Yuu puts two fingers on her chin as she thought “Like… feeling, maybe? I can barely sense how genuine you are. And I don’t just mean the way you practically shouted that confession. Let me feel that you actually want to convey your feelings. That you’re actually letting the person know that they’re the only one you’ll ever love with all your heart.” was her response.
Deuce flinches from her words “That sounds way too cheesy.” his comment receives an unamused look from Yuu.
“Do you want this confession to succeed or not?” she asks.
“I, I do, but…”
“Then listen to me. Here, let me show you.”
Riddle blinks hearing the prefect’s sudden suggestion and now his curiosity is piqued from what she plans to do. He stays rooted in his place as he watches Yuu grab Deuce’s hands in hers, her expression turns serious as purple eyes lock with Deuce’s fierce blue ones.
“Deuce,” she starts “I want you to know that all this time, I’ve never really seen you as just a friend. While I played the role as someone who cares about you, deep down, there was something building up and I just can’t ignore it anymore.”
Somehow, even as Riddle isn’t the one in the situation, he admits that he’s starting to get dragged into the mood as well.
“Deuce Spade, I really like you! With all my heart and with every ounce of my being.”
Riddle’s eyes widen at hearing the prefect’s confession. He could feel the sincerity, the genuineness of her words. The way her feelings seem to bleed through from them, and the look in her eyes make it all the more convincing.
There was an ache in Riddle’s chest, however, as amused as he was. And for a moment, he had to look away. Perhaps he should leave. It’d be rude of him to continue listening in on such an intimate and private moment.
“Wh… What the hell…?” he hears Deuce finally react and his attention is back on the scene. Deuce is covering his face with his hand while the other is still in Yuu’s hold.
It seems he was mumbling something however too quiet and muffled through his palm that only Yuu was able to hear it. Whatever it was, Yuu giggles; Riddle wonders if it was some sweet remark about her confession. Maybe even a shy response of his own to garner such a reaction from the female prefect.
“See? Now you try it.” Yuu suddenly suggests.
“There’s no way I can replicate that!” Deuce exclaims, and Riddle could see him blushing up to the tip of his ears. Adorable.
Such a shame he wasn’t the cause for such a cute reaction.
“I’m not saying you should. It was an example. You gotta do your own thing, okay? Now give it to me. Make me feel like I’m witnessing the main lead of a shoujo manga confessing to the person of their affections!” Yuu says as a form of encouragement.
“You don’t have to say it like that.” Deuce mumbles before clearing his throat.
There was silence between them as they simply stand there. Deuce had closed his eyes to internalize, trying his best to focus and Yuu simply watches as she waits for him. It takes a few seconds before Deuce opens his eyes, hyping himself up a bit, and then he moves.
Yuu seems to be taken back when Deuce steps forward. She haphazardly steps backwards until her back meets the wall behind her. Deuce plants a hand to the side of her head, caging the prefect. Both Riddle and Yuu were surprised from Deuce’s actions.
“I… I like you. No, I love you. I’ve loved you for a long time now. Please go out with me.”
Riddle finds himself clutching his chest with one hand while the other covers his mouth which was now agape from surprise. He’ll admit, there was something about the way Deuce’s demeanor changed that even if Riddle wasn’t in Yuu’s position, he could sense those feelings he wishes to convey.
Even if they were no longer meant for him.
There was an ache and this feeling instinctively made Riddle look away. Deciding that he has probably intruded long enough on such an intimate moment that was meant only for the two of them, Riddle takes his leave. His feet were heavy as they drag him away from the scene. Surely, with Deuce’s confession, the prefect will have accepted his feelings by then.
Riddle couldn’t help but muse how quick Deuce had moved on from his confession to Riddle and has now directed those feelings to Yuu. That would explain how easily Deuce accepted Riddle’s rejection that day. Perhaps now, those strong feelings will be home to someone more worthy for them to belong to. And, of course, he wishes for them to be happy.
Strange.
What is this heavy feeling in his chest?
***
Deuce has always been one of Riddle’s most loyal trump soldiers.
His resilience knows no bounds, and he takes effort in following the rules as much as possible. Even if he’s broken a few of them himself, he takes responsibility for his mistakes.
His desire to remain by Riddle’s side and protect him when danger is afoot is remarkable and Riddle can’t help looking back at those moments with fondness. He would go through means to assist Riddle to prove his worthiness as one of the Queen’s vanguards of spade, even if his skills are inadequate to the task.
Although his intelligence isn’t the most outstanding and his studies definitely needs more work, but Riddle could see he was trying. And he’ll admit he finds delight whenever Deuce comes to him to ask for tutoring. Where it’s just the two of them in their own moment.
Taking these factors into account, it’s no surprise anyone would find themselves getting attracted to the spade soldier. And since Yuu spends the most time around Ace and Deuce, it should come off as no surprise if their relationship blossoms into something more intimate than friendship.
Riddle was an outsider in these affairs, and while Deuce is his loyal trump soldier, his relationships outside of that should be of no concern to Riddle. His loyalty to Riddle is merely from the role they play as students in the Heartslabyul Dorm. That’s all there is to it.
Riddle should know this more than anyone. He is only Deuce’s queen while he’s the head of Heartslabyul. If the day comes that his loyalty, time and attention are now directed to the person of his affection—which Riddle had long removed himself to be—Riddle should not deny him of this decision.
And yet, what is this pain in his chest that’s made itself known since witnessing Deuce and Yuu’s confession to each other?
Trey had to check up on him when he’d lost track of time and missed dinner. The infirmary advises that nothing was wrong with his chest or his health. However, Riddle was showing signs of sleep deprivation and the redhead can’t refute this claim. He’s had trouble sleeping lately because of this troublesome pain in his chest. If even the school’s physician cannot determine the cause, then what exactly was wrong and how does he remedy it?
“You! Are you the one assigned for flamingo caring today?” Riddle roars as soon as he catches the student by the flamingo’s cages.
The student flinches at his dorm head’s voice, turning around immediately to respond “Y-Yes, sir! I am.” his voice shaky.
“Then why are you not wearing any pink attire? How many times must I iterate Queen of Hearts rule #249 that clearly states ‘Flamingo caretakers must don pink attire’?!”
“I-I’m sorry, Dorm Leader! I had to quickly change ‘cause my pink shirt got stained this morning with tea.” the poor student explains, he looked as if his entire body was trembling from fear.
“Unforgivable! You prioritize your own comfort over following the rules?! I will have your head for that!” Riddle himself was also practically shaking from anger.
“Eek! Pl-Please, Dorm Leader, have mercy!”
“Woah, Riddle, what’s going on here?” Trey immediately cuts in as soon as he heard Riddle’s voice.
“Vice Dorm Leader, please help me.” the Heartslabyul student cries, a little relieved seeing their vice coming in to his aid.
“Worry not, I was simply correcting this rule-breaker for his flagrant disregarding of the rules.” Riddle explains, still looking quite frantic.
“Alright, alright, calm down, Riddle. Why aren’t you wearing anything pink today?” Trey decides to interrogate and the student relays his earlier reasoning “Ah, hot tea on clothes would be quite uncomfortable to wear, don’t you think so, Riddle? It wasn’t like he wanted to break the rules, he just didn’t have a choice. Just let him off as a warning, alright?” the vice head tries to argue.
Riddle remains silent as he continues to glare at the rule-breaking student. It takes a few seconds before the redhead finally replies “Very well, I will let you off with a warning for now. However, the next time I catch you breaking the rules, it will be off with your head, am I clear?”
“Y-Yes, Dorm Leader! Thank you so much!” the student bows, relief in his tone and expression as he does so.
And with that, Riddle leaves the scene. He hears Trey following after “You feeling okay there, Riddle?” he asks, sounding quite concerned.
“I’m fine, Trey. Thank you. Perhaps a little bit shaken up.” Riddle admits. Now that his head was clearer thanks to Trey’s intervention, he realized he may have gone a little too far with the student back then when he had a reasonable excuse for breaking the rule just now. It was as if he had reverted back to his old self at the beginning of the school year just as he promised he’ll change.
“How was the trip to the Infirmary? What did the physician say?” Trey then brings up, his face was painted with concern.
“He says there were no complications. But he advises that I take a bit of rest since I’ve been sleep deprived for some days.” Riddle informs him.
“Sleep deprived? Is something wrong?” Trey couldn’t help but ask, now genuinely worried hearing this news.
Riddle shakes his head “Nothing of note, really. I just have trouble sleeping, that’s all.” he says, making light of the situation in hopes to not worry Trey any further.
Although, he does have a bit of an idea where the anxiety preventing him to get proper sleep comes from, he’d rather not mention. It sounds utterly ridiculous, if he’ll be honest.
Trey doesn’t seem too convinced, however “Having trouble sleeping is a cause for concern, you know? If anything’s bothering you, just tell me. Is it stress? Do you feel sick?” came the questions.
Riddle clicks his tongue in part annoyance to Trey’s insistence “I said I’m fine, alright? The physician told me I simply need to rest so I will do as advised. If you’ll excuse me.” the redhead states, leaving things at that as he walks ahead straight to his room.
On the way, Riddle unexpectedly runs into Deuce and Ace who seem to be on their way somewhere; the redhead can easily guess exactly where, however.
“Ah, Dorm Leader Rosehearts, hello!” Deuce greets, his expression brightening up the moment he sees Riddle and the redhead ignores the loud thump in his chest seeing the spade soldier’s reaction.
“Wait, Deuce, I’m telling you don’t!” Ace scolds the other under his breath, to Riddle’s confusion.
“Is there something you need?” Riddle proceeds to ask.
“Actually, Ace and I were planning to stay the night at Ramshackle Dorm to study for a mini test tomorrow. We were hoping to get permission from you.” Deuce explains and only then did Riddle notice the forms on each of the students’ hands.
“Staying the night at Ramshackle Dorm?” Riddle repeats, taking the overnight request from Deuce’s hand to have a look at it.
Riddle’s mood suddenly turns sour at the thought, especially remembering that they’ve slept over there just last night. While there’s no crime to taking overnight stays at other dorms for more than one night as long as they have the okay from the other Dorm Heads, for some reason, Riddle felt annoyed.
“Denied.” the redhead firmly declines the request, practically shoving the form back into Deuce’s hand.
“Eh?” Both Ace and Deuce stare at Riddle in surprise.
“In the first place, you’ve already filed a request yesterday and I’ve approved said request to only let you both stay for one night. Have you two no shame to request another? Not to mention, even as the Ramshackle prefect lets you two come and go as you please in her dorm, at least show a little bit of decorum and not take advantage of her kindness.” Riddle further explains.
“Ha?! It’s not like we’re taking advantage of her! We just didn’t plan ahead yesterday when we sent that request form. And the mini test was a surprise to us, too. If we’d known, we would’ve extended the request for more than a night.” Ace was the one to raise a complaint, clearly annoyed with Riddle’s reasoning.
“If you wish to study for your mini test, do so before curfew and then come back to the dorm right after. How am I guaranteed that this overnight stay will be used merely for studying? Knowing the three of you, I highly doubt studying will be your top priority, even.” Riddle argues back.
“Well, I mean… not like that’s any of your business.” Ace mumbles, already losing the verbal argument “Besides, it’s not like requesting to stay overnight more than once is against the rules.” he then adds.
“As your Dorm Leader, it, in fact, is my business. While you’re not breaking any rules, if this overnight request does not garner any fruitful results on your mini test, then that defeats the point, doesn’t it?” Riddle replies.
“You’re already assuming we’re gonna fail that test?”
“Do not put words in my mouth, Ace, I am simply looking at the bigger picture.”
“You little…”
“A-Alright, alright. Reel it in, Ace. We can just do what the dorm leader suggested and head to Ramshackle Dorm to study together before curfew.” Deuce immediately cuts in; worried things might blow over into something serious “Dorm Leader Rosehearts does have a point, you know?”
Ace huffs a breath, giving Deuce an unamused look “I don’t wanna hear that from you of all people, Deuce.” he tells his fellow trump soldier.
Riddle can only grin hearing Deuce agree to his suggestion “Very well. Since that’s settled, I’ll leave you two be. Make sure to return before curfew.” he reminds the pair before walking past them to continue his way to his room.
“I told you we should’ve just asked Trey-senpai for permission.” he overhears Ace complain.
“Quit your complaining already, Ace.” Deuce scolds.
“Yeah, yeah. Whatever, lover boy.”
“Lo— shut up, he might hear you.”
Lover boy, huh? So Ace is already aware of Deuce and Yuu’s relationship. Not that it should be of any surprise considering all three of them are quite close. It does explain why Ace was so adamant in letting them stay over at Ramshackle. Riddle didn’t take Ace to be that supportive of his friends’ love lives, but perhaps there is more to him than meets the eye.
Riddle feels his stomach churning again from the thought. He quickens his pace until he finally reaches the comforts of his quarters. He enters his room, shutting the door behind him and heading straight to his bed.
The redhead plops himself down on the sheets, grabbing one of the pillows and wrapping it in his arms as he buries his face in the soft cushion. He tries to calm his heartbeat but it would not shut up, the ache in his chest making itself all the more known while his stomach twists uncomfortably.
Riddle could not understand what these symptoms mean. And they only worsened right after encountering Deuce and Ace in the hallway and hearing their plans to stay the night at Ramshackle Dorm. The image of Deuce and Yuu spending the entire night together flashed in his head and he just started feeling uneasy.
Frankly, he didn’t usually care nor mind if the two spent more nights with their friend. They were friends, and Riddle wouldn’t want to hinder their activities just as his mother had done to him.
And yet, that is exactly what he did just now. For reasons even he doesn’t understand. His mood just immediately went sour thinking about Deuce and Yuu that he ended up denying their request before he could properly think about it.
***
“For the snacks, I was thinking about adding apricot almond tartlets. I’ve been hoping to try my hand on some new recipes. And for the scones, we could go for some vanilla-glazed ginger scones. A little change in flavor might be nice.” Trey cites his ideas for the menu of their upcoming unbirthday party in a few days. Riddle hums in response to his vice head’s suggestion.
“That sounds absolutely delish! What about some peanut caramel brownies too?” Ruggie, who had sat in with them for lunch, starts voicing his own ideas.
“We had some peanut-flavored snacks last time so I might hold off on that one. But I like the suggestion.” Trey replies and Riddle hums again.
“Then some mini cheesecakes?”
“Oh, not a bad idea, Ruggie. What do you think, Riddle?” Riddle hums in reply once again “Riddle?”
“Looks like Riddle-kun’s a little distracted.” Ruggie chimes, turning his eyes to the direction Riddle was looking at. Trey does as well; seems he’s been staring at Ace, Deuce and Yuu’s group this whole time.
They were cheerily talking as usual, Ace was teasing Deuce and Yuu’s trying to mediate between them while Grim happily picks at Yuu’s already neglected food. There was nothing out of the ordinary, to be honest, so it was curious why Riddle had his eyes on them.
Well, Trey does have a bit of an idea.
He turns his attention to his agenda, clearing his throat as an idea creeps in his mind “By the way, should we extend an invitation to Ramshackle Dorm to join us again? I’m sure Ace and Deuce would be delighted.” he then suggests.
That successfully gets Riddle to finally speak, however his eyes still remain at the group “Yuu and Grim, huh? Must we do so?” he asks, to Trey’s surprise when Riddle wasn’t one to question when Ace and Deuce invite the Ramshackle pair to their unbirthday parties.
“Do you want us to?” Trey replies with another question.
Riddle doesn’t respond, he simply hums again. Trey sighs, once again turning his attention back to the first years. This time, Yuu was scolding Grim for eating the rest of her food. Deuce offers to share his own, not even taking a ‘no’ from the prefect as he’s already placing some of his remaining food on her plate.
Trey then hears Riddle click his tongue and then all of a sudden, the redhead is standing up “Riddle?” Trey calls out, surprised of his dorm leader’s action.
“I’ll be taking my leave.” Riddle announces.
“Already? But you haven’t even touched your food. That’s gonna be a huge waste, you know?” Ruggie exclaims.
“You may finish it then, Ruggie. I’ve lost my appetite.” was all the redhead says before he walks away, not even listening when Trey calls for him to wait.
Ruggie shrugs, shamelessly accepting the other’s offer as he pulls Riddle’s tray that was still filled with untouched food in front of him “It’s unusual for Riddle-kun to be this generous. Is something wrong with him?” he then proceeds to ask, sounding worried about Riddle, nonetheless.
Trey sighs, massaging his temple “I’m not even sure. He refuses to elaborate when I ask him what’s wrong. And he’s so easily angered lately. It’s been really worrying.”
Ruggie hums, once again turning his eyes to Ace, Deuce and Yuu who were still lively chatting in their table “Maybe it has something to do with those first years. He was staring at them the whole time before he left.” he asks, taking a bite of the food given to him.
“I was thinking the same. And I kind of have an idea, but I’m not too positive about it yet.” Trey replies.
Trey’s been worried about Riddle since he’s had difficulty sleeping the past few days, not to mention the missed meals and this lunch was just another example of it. At this point, his body might give out from fatigue, lack of nutrient intake and whatever he’s stressing out about. But trying to get the answer out of him is even harder than figuring out how to perfect a new-found recipe.
All he can tell for now is whatever Riddle’s annoyed about, it has something to do with the Ramshackle prefect. Which is all the more confusing when Heartslabyul has had a very amicable relationship with Ramshackle as of late.
What could have caused the sudden change?
***
The moment Riddle opens his eyes, he’s met with the white, cemented ceiling of the infirmary with bright lamps hanging from above. He massages his head, trying to remember the events prior that brought him to this place.
He had left Trey and Ruggie in the cafeteria after witnessing something unpleasant and headed straight for his classroom. He remembers feeling dizzy and his sight going blurry before his consciousness left him. It’s easy to assume someone in the vicinity must have witnessed him passing out and bringing him here.
Just as Riddle was about to sit up, he feels something holding his other hand and only then did he notice the head of dark hair lying by his side; it was Deuce. His attention returns to his hand which was held loosely in Deuce’s own. Did Deuce carry him to the infirmary? And if so, why was he still here?
The thought of Deuce skipping on his classes to keep Riddle company while he rested both made the redhead ecstatic and mad at the same time. Exactly what reason could’ve prompted the spade soldier to dare skip on his afternoon classes when Riddle fainting is barely an emergency?
Luckily for Deuce, Riddle was still too worn out from the fatigue to do anything so he’ll save the lecture for when his energy replenishes. Riddle carefully takes his hand from the other’s hold to place it on top of his head. His fingers caress the soft strands of blue hair as he gives his loyal soldier a gentle head rub.
That manages to stir Deuce awake, his head lifting up from the bed as sleepy eyes blink at Riddle. His expression after having just woken up was quite amusing, Riddle had to hide a small giggle.
“D-Dorm Leader Rosehearts! Are you feeling okay now?” Deuce then exclaims once he’s fully woken up, worry was evident in his tone.
“A little bit, thank you. I assume you carried me here when I lost consciousness?” Riddle asks to clarify.
Deuce nods “You passed out before leaving the cafeteria. Everyone was so worried. I offered to carry you to the infirmary with Ace and Yuu. Oh, Clover-senpai was here earlier as well but they all went ahead for their afternoon classes.” the taller male retells the events that occurred after Riddle fainted.
“And yet you’re here?” Riddle points out, emphasizing the fact Deuce was present despite also having afternoon classes.
“Eh? Didn’t you ask me to stay?” Deuce’s question surprises Riddle.
“I did?”
“Well… at least you looked like you did?” Deuce carefully says, trying to remember that specific moment “When we excused ourselves to get to class, you suddenly grabbed my uniform and told me not to go. So Clover-senpai said I should stay and watch and he offered to talk to my teachers about excusing me for the afternoon.”
Riddle blinks, feeling his entire face burning he had to cover it with his hand “I… did that?” he mumbles in disbelief, shame taking over his system. The fatigue must’ve seriously gotten to him “I apologize. That wasn’t… I mean, I don’t know what’s gotten into me.”
“Oh no, it’s alright, sir! I didn’t really mind watching over you.” Deuce assures him.
Riddle peeks at him through his fingers “Clearly, this only benefits you as a valid excuse to skip your classes.” he points out, not missing the way Deuce flinches from the comment; it was obvious, of course.
“Th-That’s not true! Of course, I wouldn’t want to skip classes, but if my boss needs me, then I won’t decline. That’s it!” Deuce stutters on his response, trying to justify his reasons and Riddle has to hold back a giggle that dares to escape his throat. It was a silly argument and yet Riddle could not help but find it adorable.
Admittedly, after a bit of thought, after having seen that scene in the first years’ group earlier, and after hearing what he had just done while supposedly unconscious, it was easy for Riddle to connect the dots. The cause for all his stress and anxiety the past few days and why imagining Deuce and the prefect together made his stomach churn uncomfortably.
“Uh, I guess I should take my leave. I can probably catch up and attend final period if I hurry now.” Deuce then excuses himself.
However, Riddle’s hand immediately takes his own, the action surprising Deuce a little “I’m sorry, but…” Riddle trails off, a part of him arguing to let Deuce go while the other pushes for him to finish his request “would it be alright if you keep me company for a little longer? Just until I feel a little bit better to go back to the dorm.”
“Oh, of course! Anything you say, Dorm Leader! If you like, I can assist you back to the dorm as well.” the spade soldier suggests.
Riddle offers a smile “Perhaps that would be most ideal. Thank you, Deuce.”
And with that, Deuce takes his seat once more, his hand still keeping its hold on Riddle’s, refusing to let go first until Riddle himself initiates it. Unfortunately, Riddle, himself, also refuses to release his hold of this warmth. This temporary moment where he can be selfish and indulge himself. Indulge these troublesome feelings that have inconveniently made itself known.
Yes, Riddle was in love with Deuce.
And it angers him to an extent that he’d only realized it when Deuce was no longer available. He had his chance, and he squandered it just like that, without even giving it a second thought before providing his harsh response.
Now, Deuce was in a relationship with Yuu. His feelings for Riddle have long disappeared the moment he directed his love towards the female prefect. Guilt and regret bubbles in the pits of Riddle’s chest, yet he only has himself to blame.
Deuce belongs to someone else. And he will never be his.
These thoughts swim through Riddle’s mind as he guiltily steals someone else’s man for this temporary moment of indulgence where it’s just the two of them. He can pretend Deuce stayed to take care of him. Deuce carried him here out of worry for his well-being. Deuce is holding his hand as a quiet assurance, refusing to let it go.
Riddle was simply the worst human being to ever exist.
***
Deuce felt absolutely horrible. Everything hurt, from his chest, to his eyes, to his nose and especially his heart. He’s thankful that he managed to tough it out and left Riddle without breaking down right there. His feet were heavy as they trudged along towards the mirror, through the school grounds until he reaches Ramshackle Dorm.
He remembers hearing the surprise in Yuu’s tone the moment she opened the door even as Deuce was already having difficulty seeing her face from the tears. Without needing to say a word, his friend lets him inside her dorm. Only after Deuce reaches the living room was when he completely lost composure.
His legs gave out when he reaches the couch, taking the entire space as he lies on his side. He grabs the small pillow to bury his face in it, crying his heart out.
Deuce never considered how painful a heartbreak was. He definitely figured that Riddle would reject him if he confessed, but he didn’t think it’d affect him this much. This feels worse than receiving a beating. And at this point, he’d rather get beaten up to forget the pain.
His chest felt hurt and heavy as he heaves, his breathing was practically erratic he wonders if he’s having a heart attack. Thankfully, the pillow was muffling his cries because he didn’t need to hear how pathetic he sounds right now.
The breakdown lasted for a while, Deuce assumes. When he calmed down, it was already dark outside. Deuce started spacing out the moment he stopped crying, still lying on his side as he hugs the pillow in his arms for some form of comfort.
“How are you feeling?” he hears Yuu ask, noticing the prefect walking in with a tray in her hand.
“Not good.” Grim was the one to reply and only after hearing the beast’s voice did Deuce figure that he’d probably been sitting in the living room this whole time.
Yuu places the tray down on the small table and Deuce simply watches as Grim grabs two cupcakes in his paws to devour each whole. Yuu takes the glass of water, crouching in front of Deuce as she hands it to him.
“Here. Drink up.” she says.
Deuce sniffs, forcing his body to sit up although still feeling heavy, and once he was successful, he quietly accepts the offered glass and takes a few slow sips. At least the water helped ease his throat from all the crying.
After Deuce finishes up the glass, he gives it back to Yuu who places it down on the tray before sitting on the sofa beside her friend “Do you want to talk about it?” she decides to ask.
Deuce doesn’t reply immediately. He closes his eyes, inhaling and exhaling a few breaths to calm himself down and assess if he was ready to talk without breaking down after a few words. Once it seems that he’ll be fine, he finally speaks up.
“Dorm Leader Rosehearts dumped me.” Deuce says, straight to the point.
“Ah, I’m sorry to hear that.” Yuu replies. She and Ace were already aware of Deuce’s growing crush on the Heartslabyul Dorm Leader so the prefect can only sympathize.
“He said he can’t return my feelings. ‘Cause I’m not eligible to be his boyfriend when he has really high standards and I don’t make the cut for them.” Deuce adds, basically paraphrasing how he understood Riddle’s explanation.
Relaying the reason using his own words admittedly stings as much as he feels just a little bit annoyed. While he wants to understand Riddle’s reason, he can’t help feeling like he wasn’t just dumped but also insulted in the process.
Of course, Riddle was a person raised to have high standards when it comes to people he wants to date. And perhaps it was wishful thinking on Deuce’s part to consider that Riddle will ever look his way and feel the same as he does if he confessed his feelings. But it’s not like anybody can blame him!
Deuce had been crushing on Riddle for literal months now! And the feelings have been eating him up inside! At first, he thought about settling with being Riddle’s loyal trump soldier for the entirety of their time in Night Raven College because, who was he kidding, Riddle was out of his league in more ways than one.
But the longer the days passed, the more times he spends around Riddle and seeing the amazing and wonderful things he does, the great things he’s achieved and his attempt to strive and change for the better, his feelings refused to be just a passing thought anymore!
So he confessed, throwing all his insecurities and pessimistic thoughts aside and mustering all the courage in his system to tell Riddle his true feelings. He even told himself he’s ready to accept whatever Riddle’s reply would be because he knows the chances of Riddle liking him back was very slim.
And yet, here he is, bawling his eyes out like a friggin’ crybaby because his heart got broken. And he only has himself to blame.
Yuu hums beside him “I guess that makes sense.” she states “So, are you giving up now?”
“Well, it’s not like I have a choice, you know?” Deuce points out, tightening his hold on the pillow as he buries his face in it, fighting back his urge to cry again. Who was he kidding? There’s no way he can just forget these feelings even if he tried. Especially when he gets to see Riddle literally everyday being his dorm leader and all.
“I mean… you kinda do.” at Yuu’s words, Deuce looks up at her, brows knit together in confusion.
“What are you talking about? If Riddle doesn’t like him, then you should just give up. It’s a lot better that way than forcing the guy, you know?” Grim butts in before stuffing a cupcake in his mouth.
“Don’t butt in when the adults are talking, Grim.”
“Are you calling me a kid?! You’re just my henchman, you know!” Grim fumes, his fur practically standing from anger.
“Yeah, sure, just finish up the snacks and stop talking.” Yuu tells the tiny beast as she stuffs a cupcake into his mouth to keep him quiet. That does do the trick, at least. And then the prefect returns her attention to Deuce “Okay, back on topic. I don’t know if it’s alright to read it like this, but Riddle didn’t exactly say that he didn’t like you back, right? He just said that he can’t return your feelings because of this and that.” the female prefect elaborates.
“I… guess so.” Deuce says, trying to understand Yuu’s point.
“If Riddle has a basis for choosing who to date, then we’ll just have to turn you into an eligible candidate.” Yuu proclaims, standing up with her hands on her hips.
Deuce blinks at her, not exactly catching up with what his friend was trying to suggest “What?”
“Your goal is to be an honor student, correct?” Deuce nods “Then that pretty much aligns with Riddle’s standards! All we have to do is make sure you achieve that goal and you’ll win his heart! It’s like killing two birds with one stone.” Yuu further elaborates, sounding rather proud of her idea, even.
“You think it’s going to be that easy?” Deuce asks, a little skeptical of his friends’ suggestion.
“I suppose not, but it’s not impossible.” Yuu assures him “Besides, you already want to be an honor student to make your mom proud, right? So even if Riddle still doesn’t reciprocate your feelings, then at least you don’t really lose anything by trying.” she then adds.
Deuce hums, starting to consider Yuu’s idea. Admittedly, the plan was pretty solid, and just as she said, even if Riddle still doesn’t return his feelings simply because he doesn’t like Deuce that way in the first place, then he won’t have much to lose aside from a second heartbreak.
So with those thoughts in consideration, Deuce nods, finally making up his mind “Alright. Starting today, I’m going to start working harder. And then I’ll show Dorm Leader Rosehearts the results of my hard work and confess to him again.” the spade soldier states.
Yuu nods, happy to see her friend’s newfound determination has thankfully cheered him up “That’s the spirit! In that case, we might need to work on your confession, too.”
Deuce blinks at her, slightly confused of this added proposal “What do you mean?”
“Well, if you want to win his heart, might as well go for a really sweet, heart-stopping confession to go with it, you know?” Yuu explains and Deuce’s eyes squint at her, not exactly excited of this idea.
“Ehh… does it have to be? Can’t I just tell him I like him as usual?”
“No can do!” Yuu replies, waving a finger “Don’t worry, you can trust your good ol’ hopeless romantic friend here. I may not have the experience, but I at least have more of an idea concerning romance between the two of us.” the female prefect boldly claims.
“I guess so… Just as long as it’s not super embarrassing, okay?” Deuce says.
“Trust me.” Yuu assures him with a wink.
***
The library was its usual quiet and serene atmosphere. Exactly the most adequate place for Riddle to study and catch up on lessons he had missed yesterday thanks to his inappropriately timed incident. He didn’t expect the stress and fatigue were getting that bad that his body decided to take matters into its own hands.
Although, despite knowing the cause of the stress and anxiety in his system, he unfortunately can’t find a remedy for it. If anything, it’s just made things worse. Whenever the usual group of Deuce, Ace and Yuu were in his peripherals, Riddle would find himself leaving the area, walking a different way or trying every means to not encounter them anywhere in the school.
Just the thought of Deuce and Yuu being together leaves a horrible taste in his mouth and his mood for the whole day is immediately ruined. It’s immature of him, clearly, and there was no point in lingering on the regret. But the venomous monster known as jealousy still dwells in his system no matter how much he tries to dispel it.
“Good afternoon, Dorm Leader.” Riddle’s attention turns from his textbook to the owner of the voice that greets him. And to his surprise, Deuce is standing right beside the table where he sat.
Riddle instinctively looks around, a little curious as to why the spade soldier was alone “Good afternoon, Deuce. Did you need anything?” Riddle asks.
“Uhm, I was wondering if it’s alright to ask you for help in studying.” Deuce voices his request “If you’re not too busy, that is.” he adds, most likely noticing the pile of books on the table in front of Riddle.
“Alright. Have a seat.” Riddle accepts the request, however—not like Riddle can find it in him to decline when it’s Deuce, to be honest.
At Riddle’s response, Deuce beams a smile and Riddle ignores the way his heart skips a beat at such a warm reaction. The spade soldier takes a seat beside him, placing some of his textbooks down on the table and then opening the one from the top of the pile.
The two begin their tutoring session as normal. However, Riddle muses that Deuce was catching up to his explanations quite easily compared to usual. He would still ask for clarification and Riddle would explain in the easiest way he knew how, but it wasn’t exactly an ordeal for Riddle. He actually likes it when Deuce asks questions since it gives him assurance that the other male was paying attention.
“And if I multiply this number, that would give me 8. So the answer is 8?” Deuce iterates.
“Yes, that is correct.” Riddle replies “You’ve improved quite a bit since the last time I’ve tutored you. I’m impressed.” he can’t help but remark.
A faint blush makes itself visible on Deuce’s cheek as he scratches his nape “Thank you, sir. I guess all the study time with Yuu is paying off.”
At the mention of Yuu, Riddle feels his chest tighten. It should come as no surprise to Riddle that Yuu and Deuce would spend time studying together, but the bitter feeling would not dissipate. Especially when tutoring Deuce is the only activity where Riddle would ever have time alone with the spade soldier. Perhaps it was foolish to think he was the sole person Deuce can rely on when he needs aid in his studies.
However, that was all Riddle knew how to help him with. And now, even that has been taken away from him.
“Having a very supportive girlfriend must be quite nice, I imagine.” Riddle isn’t able to hold back the comment, only hoping the bitterness doesn’t bleed through his words.
“What?”
“Hmm?”
Riddle gets a bit taken back with Deuce’s response to his comment and when he turns his attention to the young lad, his brows are knit in confusion “I apologize, did I say something amiss?” the redhead questions, puzzled by his reaction.
“Well, it’s just… Yuu isn’t my girlfriend, sir.”
Riddle blinks, a little dumbfounded hearing Deuce’s words “She’s not?”
“No. We’re only friends and she just takes care of us a lot. But we’re not dating.”
The more Deuce clarifies, the more Riddle wishes for the ground to swallow him whole. So he was mistaken this whole time? But that doesn’t make sense! Not when…
“Didn’t you two confess to each other back at the dorm?” Riddle then brings up, a little too surprised of this revelation to remember that he wasn’t supposed to let Deuce know that he had secretly been watching them that time.
“Confess…” and then Deuce’s entire face turns a darker shade of red “Oh fuck, he heard us?” the spade soldier mutters to himself, although with the silence of the library, Riddle was still able to hear it.
“Language, Deuce.” Riddle scolds “I sincerely extend my apologies for spying on such an intimate moment between you two. But you shouldn’t be yelling out such words loud enough for other people to hear in the first place.” he then adds.
“Ah, s-sorry. No wait, that’s not the point. What I mean is, that wasn’t us confessing to each other.” Deuce stutters, trying to properly explain the situation and hopefully clear out Riddle’s misunderstanding.
“Was it not? I could have sworn I clearly heard you two expressing your love for each other.” Riddle argues.
Deuce buries his face in his hands from embarrassment “Please remove that memory from your head, Dorm Leader, it wasn’t what it looks like, I swear.” he insists, however.
Riddle’s brows crease in confusion, a little confused of Deuce’s responses to his statements “If it was not a confession, then enlighten me on what the two of you were doing that time.” he says, demanding a solid answer from the trump soldier.
Deuce removes his hands from his face, averting his attention from his dorm leader as he sheepishly scratches his neck “Yuu was just… helping me, sir.”
“For what?”
“Uhm… well…”
“Speak up clearly or do you wish to lose your head?” Riddle threatens, already starting to lose his temper.
“S-Sorry, sir!” Deuce exclaims. After a bit of hesitating, he finally manages to say “Yuu was just... helping me practice my confession. For you.” his voice growing quieter by the end.
However, it was unsurprisingly loud enough for Riddle to catch and the redhead’s cheeks are now painted in pink after hearing Deuce’s words. He was practicing his confessions with Yuu… for Riddle? So that means…
“For me…” Riddle echoes these words, still astounded “Then… does this mean you still harbor feelings towards me?” he then asks.
“Yes, sir.” Deuce sheepishly responds “I, I know you’ve rejected me already and this may sound foolish of me to even attempt a second time. But… I couldn’t find it in me to forget these feelings and just throw them away. So, Yuu suggested to help me study in hopes maybe if I improve on my grades it’ll give me a chance.”
Riddle’s feelings were a mix of a lot of different things. Happiness, shame, embarrassment, guilt, joy. He can’t exactly express it in one word what he’s feeling right now. Nor does he know what to react or respond to this news.
This whole time he had stressed over the idea of Deuce already losing interest in him when Riddle had started realizing his own feelings for the spade soldier. It cost him numerous sleepless nights, lack of energy to eat, and this state of stress and negative emotions. All because of a simple misunderstanding!
And who can blame him when the very scene he’d witnessed was so real and so familiar that he has no choice but to believe its authenticity!
He can’t very well blame Deuce for anything because the other male wasn’t in the wrong—well, he’s partially at fault considering that pretend confession was not something Riddle was supposed to witness in the first place, and yet they decide to practice it in Heartslabyul of all places!
Perhaps if he hadn’t immediately rejected Deuce right then and simply let his confession simmer for a few days, things wouldn’t be this troublesome. But he’s wallowed in the self guilt and regret for too long already. And Riddle didn’t want Deuce to hang on to an empty promise that might only prolong his heartbreak.
The moment Deuce turns his attention back to Riddle, the redhead had his hand over his mouth, eyes wide in shock as he stares down at the textbook in front of him. He could make out the faint color of pink on his cheeks and at that moment, Deuce seems to have an idea what was running in Riddle’s mind.
“Dorm Leader,” Deuce starts, pondering for a bit if he should continue his question until he gathers the courage to satiate his curiosity “could it be that you...”
Unsure of what to say or do, Riddle’s first instinct was to escape. He hastily gathers his things, not even bothering to return the books he had taken from the shelves and storming out of the library. He hears Deuce calling out to him but Riddle ignores him. Instead, he hastens his speed, hoping to get away as fast as possible.
However, he didn’t account for Deuce to be quick on his feet and in no time, there’s a hand grabbing his wrist to stop him. Riddle didn’t need to turn to know it was Deuce.
“Dorm Leader, please wait!” Deuce yells.
“Unhand me, Deuce!” Riddle commands, attempting to pull himself free off the other’s grasp but Deuce’s hold grew stronger the more he struggled.
“What is it? Is something wrong? Did I say something to upset you?” he ends up asking, worried about Riddle’s actions after hearing his words.
“It’s, it’s nothing like that! I just… Well…” Riddle trails off, for the first time in his life, he wasn’t sure how to express his thoughts properly.
It was quite the opposite, to be exact. Deuce’s words made him feel ecstatic, giddy, the happiest he’d been for a long time if he’ll be honest. Which is exactly why his first course of action was to run away. This happiness was too foreign to Riddle that he didn’t know what else to do or even say.
Even now that he’s basically exposed to the spade soldier, he can only look down and hope the way his cheeks feel like they’re burning and whatever expression his face was showing would not give away the shameless feeling in his chest right now.
Silence envelops their space while Riddle processes his thoughts, trying to form the proper words to convey his feelings. However, Deuce seems to have taken his silence and his actions negatively.
“Sorry, Dorm Leader.” the apology gets Riddle averting his eyes from the ground and looking up at Deuce. His eyes held guilt and it broke Riddle’s heart “I didn’t think you’d be really bothered of the fact that I still like you that way. I’ll stop right now. I’ll try to forget these feelings if that makes you more comfortable.”
“What?” Riddle can only say, his heart clenching at the thought. No, this was not what he intended.
“Don’t worry, I’ll still continue to support you as your loyal trump soldier, nonetheless! So you don’t have to concern yourself about that.” Deuce assures him.
But this was not what Riddle wanted. Just as he’d been reassured that Deuce’s feelings for him have not wavered despite the harsh rejection Riddle provided, he will not allow Deuce to give them up now! Not when Riddle was positive that he feels just the same.
“That’s not—“ Riddle cuts himself off once he notices the crowd of people their little scene has attracted. He’d gotten so caught up in their moment he completely forgot where they were right now.
Perhaps it was best if they discuss this somewhere more private.
“Come.” Riddle tells Deuce, taking advantage of the other’s hold on his wrist to drag him along as he proceeds to walk off.
“Eh? Where to?” Deuce asks, the action surprises him enough that he releases Riddle’s wrist, but Riddle takes the opportunity to grab him by the hand instead.
Riddle doesn’t respond as he simply drags Deuce by the hand. He ignores the numerous eyes on them, some surprised, others curious and a few sympathetic looks that were given to the pair as they march through the school. Deuce had remained silent after a while, just quietly letting himself be taken wherever by his dorm leader.
They reach the Hall of Mirrors and Riddle’s hold on Deuce’s hand does not loosen. Even as they’re passing through the portal to Heartslabyul, Riddle refuses to let go—despite aware that at this point, Deuce would not run away from him.
He brings Deuce to the rose maze garden, still not stopping in his tracks even as they’ve entered the maze. Riddle confidently leads them through the twists and turns of the rose labyrinth until they reach a more open area surrounded by tall bushes of roses.
Deuce flinches when the only entrance to the area closes behind him, securing their privacy and making sure nobody dares to eavesdrop on their conversation. Finally, Riddle releases Deuce’s hand—reluctant as he was and already missing the other’s warmth.
“Dorm Leader? Why did you bring me here?” Deuce finally finds the voice to ask, sounding a little concerned given Riddle had used his magic to close them off in that specific area.
“Apologies, I don’t mean to startle you. I just wish to give us the privacy we need for this discussion. I believe it’s best if we talk about it without distractions or unwanted company.” Riddle explains.
“I see.” a relieved sigh escapes Deuce’s lips “But in that case, is there more you want to talk about, then?”
“Yes.”
Riddle steadies himself, mustering up all his courage to voice out his true feelings. Perhaps in this moment, he should just stop overthinking and let his heart speak for itself. It’s time to take a page from Deuce’s book and say exactly what he wishes to convey.
“Do not throw away your feelings for me, Deuce.” Riddle finally voices out.
“What?” Deuce asks, surprised of Riddle’s words.
“In truth, hearing you relay your plans to confess your feelings to me a second time after you’ve proven yourself worthy made me feel elated. All this time, I’d been anxious, thinking you’ve moved on easily from loving me and directed that love to Yuu. A little silly of me, am I right?” Riddle jokes.
“That’s—“
“I didn’t intend to run away after you told me simply because I was uncomfortable. I just… didn’t know what to say, what was the proper response to give. This is my first time receiving a confession, after all. Or more accurately, a second time, I suppose.
“I understand my earlier response to your confession has wounded you, and it must be confusing to you right now that I’m saying all this despite already rejecting you. But I assure you that I do not intend to hurt you a second time. In fact, I wish to make up for it.”
“Make up for it?” Deuce manages to ask.
“Yes. Surely by this point you can make out what I wish to say.”
And then Riddle inhales a breath, trying to calm his rapidly beating heart from the nerves of having to put his feelings to words.
“Deuce Spade, I love you. If you’ll still have me, I wish to be your boyfriend.”
Surprise paints Deuce’s face as the spade soldier stares at his dorm leader. They both remain silent for a moment; Riddle’s heart has doubled in speed, his anxiety spiking after having said all that without pause and Deuce’s silence is clearly not helping calm him down.
Of course, after Deuce’s explanation in the library, Riddle already knows what the other’s response could be. But he’d prefer to hear the words clearly from the other male. In fact, he wants to hear Deuce say those words again.
And then Riddle catches a tear cascade down Deuce’s face. He doesn’t react immediately upon seeing the tears until Deuce starts haphazardly wiping his face. Riddle’s anxiety was now at an all time high; this was not the reaction he was expecting!
“D-Deuce?! What is it? Did I… Have I said something wrong?” Riddle couldn’t help but ask, worried about Deuce suddenly crying. Great sevens, will he ever be able to do anything right for once?
“S-Sorry, Dorm Leader. I’m just… I’m so happy right now…” Deuce manages to say between his cries. He heaves a few breaths, hands still busy wiping the tears but Riddle could make out a smile on his lips.
“Happy? But you’re crying. Be honest with me, Deuce!”
“No, no, I swear! I’m just, I’m so overjoyed I’m crying…” Deuce clarifies followed by a few more cries.
Worry filling his system, Riddle slowly moves forward, eradicating the distance between them one step a time until Deuce was close enough to touch. Riddle makes the experimental gesture of reaching a hand out, carefully placing it on the spade soldier’s head. Seeing as Deuce wasn’t shaking his hand off, he proceeds to give him a few gentle rubs, thumb caressing on the soft strands of dark hair.
“Th—There, there now…” Riddle says. He isn’t the most familiar with comforting people, but he’s seen this gesture done a few times before. Although, they were mostly by mothers towards their children, but it’s his best point of reference at the moment.
He hears Deuce giggle through his sobs, taking that as a sign he isn’t doing too bad. Probably.
“Dorm Leader is giving me head rubs.” Deuce giggles, his cheeks flushed; Riddle assumes it’s from the crying.
“P-pardon me. This is the best I know about how to comfort someone.” Riddle sheepishly admits, his own cheeks flushed from embarrassment.
“Then, I’ll teach you another one.” Deuce says to Riddle’s surprise. He then opens up his arms and it was easy for Riddle to tell what the gesture means “May I have a hug?”
Riddle doesn’t hesitate as he completely removes the remaining space between them, letting himself be wrapped in the other’s strong arms while his own snake their way to Deuce’s back. And just like that, Riddle could find himself melting in Deuce’s embrace. The gentle warmth was nice, easing the anxiety that’s built up in his system.
It was terrifying, but he admits he could get used to this.
“Deuce.” Riddle calls.
“Yes?”
“Can you…” his words trail off, a little unsure how to word the request that doesn’t sound too selfish or shameful “Can you tell me… those words?”
“Words?” Deuce asks, pulling away from the hug—to Riddle’s chagrin—although keeping his arms wrapped around Riddle’s waist, hands pressed at the small of his back.
“Yes. Those… words you said before. When you confessed, you know? Don’t make me elaborate any further.” Riddle tries to explain, cheeks feeling warmer the more he does.
Thankfully, Deuce seemed to understand what Riddle wanted “I guess I haven’t properly replied to your confession yet.” the spade soldier muses.
He removes one hold from Riddle’s waist to caress the redhead’s face, thumbs gently grazing across soft pale skin. Riddle had to fight the urge to nuzzle into the touch, still unsure and uncomfortable about how much intimacy was okay. Instead, he keeps his eyes on Deuce, watching his blue eyes grow soft, as if he’s looking at Riddle like he’s the most precious thing in the world.
“I love you, Dorm Leader Rosehearts. And if you’ll also have me, I would love to be your boyfriend as well.”
Riddle smiles, feeling his own eyes starting to burn as he fights back the tears “Of course, Deuce. And to add, I would just like to remind that you have permission to address me by my name.”
“Ah, right. So… Riddle, then?” was Deuce’s attempt, trying to familiarize himself. Riddle could tell he was having difficulty, which was admittedly adorable, if he’ll be honest. Deuce has always valued respect by addressing his seniors with titles or their last names and it was admirable, of course.
Riddle has enjoyed the treatment himself, especially when Deuce addresses him with other titles such as ‘Boss’ and ‘Sir’. It exhibits a lot about his character and how he treats other people. Another trait of Deuce Riddle has adored all this time.
But hearing Deuce call him by name was definitely a whole new experience. While others have called him by name multiple times, with honorifics or not, there was something more special when it came from Deuce. Perhaps it’s simply his bias with the spade soldier now that he’s acknowledged his love for him.
“Riddle.” Deuce calls, still getting himself used to this change “Can I… Can I kiss you?” the blush on Deuce’s cheeks grow darker at this request, simply adorable!
“You can. However, I will have to forbid you to kiss me on the lips.” Riddle states.
“Okay. I don’t mind if that’s what you prefer.” Deuce simply accepts the condition.
Before Riddle could prepare himself, Deuce leans in, his lips gently pressing against the skin of Riddle’s cheek. It was a quick kiss, and yet the butterflies on Riddle’s stomach are fluttering like crazy as his heart pounds loudly against his chest once more.
Both of Deuce’s hands return to the small of Riddle’s back as the taller male gleefully presses their foreheads together. Riddle could only make out the wide grin on Deuce’s face as happy noises seem to emit from his throat.
“You seem quite happy, Deuce.” Riddle couldn’t help but muse.
“How can I not be when I’m finally your boyfriend?” Deuce replies as if it was the most obvious thing in the world right now.
Riddle himself grins, the thought itself also making him feel just as giddy, if he’ll be honest “I suppose you make a good point.” he agrees leaning away from having their foreheads touch to bury himself back in Deuce’s warm embrace.
“I promise to you, Riddle, I may not be the perfect boyfriend, but I’ll try my hardest to be the best boyfriend you can be proud of.” Deuce whispers against Riddle’s ears and Riddle feels the arms holding his form tighten.
“What are you saying?” Riddle then says, latching himself off from Deuce’s hug, his hands gently caressing the other’s face “You don’t need to promise me anything, Deuce. I know you’ll do your best regardless. And I will always be proud to call you my boyfriend.” the redhead assures him, pulling him down to plant a quick kiss on his cheek.
Deuce gives him an apologetic smile “Sorry, I guess I’m still shaken up from the fact that you feel the same. I really don’t want to mess things up.”
“We’ve barely been dating for 30 minutes, Deuce, save your apologies for when they’re needed.” Riddle tells him “If it makes you feel any better, I’m also quite nervous about this new arrangement between us. It is my first time experiencing romance, after all.”
As Riddle admits this, the anxious feeling from before resurfaces once more but he tries to shake it away. To distract himself from the negative thoughts, he pulls Deuce’s hands away from his waist only to entwine the other’s fingers with his own.
“It’s only natural to be nervous and scared to mess things up, especially when we’ve only started being in a relationship just now. But we can take it one step at a time. Learning and experiencing new things. Together.” Riddle adds.
Hearing the other’s words, Deuce offers a smile, planting a kiss on one of their entwined hands in a silent promise.
“You’re right. Together.”