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When it comes to rumors, there isn't one Azul isn't aware of.
After all, for his particular business, any lead could be the very reason he signed his next contract. It's not as if he believed all of them. No, that would be foolish and do him far more damage than good. Instead, he'd send one of the tweels to investigate their so-called tip. It's not his fault if they came back with whispers of a deeper story. What's wrong with some slight curiosity?
Azul chuckled at the thought before turning back to his list. The lounge did need a few renovations; he can't afford to get distracted yet. He barely turned the corner when a faint whisper caught his attention.
"Hey, have you heard…?"
Azul froze.
"Heard what?"
"The rumor about Rosehearts, obviously!"
Riddle? There was actually a rumor about Riddle?
Azul could barely contain his smile as he shuffled closer to the wall. It wasn't too often he got such a juicy lead. Any gossip regarding his fellow housewardens was rare, especially when it came to Riddle. Not many dared to whisper his name, as if frightened he'd appear by calling his name once. Those bold enough to even utter a word were swiftly collared. Direct and blunt, rumors regarding the 'perfect' student were practically nonexistent.
Which is exactly why he can't let this slip through the cracks of meaningless words.
Azul peered around the corner and saw the two employees gossiping with ease. From their shifting eyes, quiet voices, and posture, he could tell this one would be promising.
"Don't say his name so loudly! Apparently, if you say it enough times, he'll actually appear."
"Now you're exaggerating…" The taller one tsked. He looked around before leaning in, cupping a hand around his mouth. As if that could shield whatever he planned on saying. "Anyways, have you heard or not?" he repeated. His companion shook his head, and Azul leaned in further.
Oh, he wonders what it could be!
If the first year is so nervous, then naturally it must be something promising. A scandal? An uprising? Some deep hidden de-
"Apparently, Rosehearts got himself a boyfriend!"
Azul snapped his clipboard clean in half as he smiled vacantly. He couldn't have heard that right, could he? Look at him, breaking precious property over some miscommunication. He sighed, tucking the pieces under his arm. For a second, he had thought the first year had said Riddle had a boyfriend!
"Someone saw them together! Roseheart was smiling, and his face was super red!"
The clipboard snapped into fourths this time.
He quietly gathered the pieces, wandering back to his office in a daze. Boyfriend. He entered without a word, closing the door behind him. Boyfriend. He took the ruined documents off the clipboard and placed them on his desk. Boyfriend. He threw the ruined clipboard into the trash, chuckling. Boyfriend. Azul slumped down on his seat, staring up at the ceiling.
"Apparently, Rosehearts got himself a boyfriend!"
His shoulders shook slightly as he leaned forward. He laced his fingers together, snickering. "Rosehearts? Have a boyfriend?" he chuckled. Only an idiot would believe such a blatant lie. His chuckles became laughter, threading a hand through his hair. "I mean… Riddle? Top of his grade?" Azul shook his head at the absurdness. There wasn't a single possibility that Riddle Rosehearts, the housewarden of Heartslaabyul, would give his time to some random guy!
Riddle, who was stern and practical in judgement. Riddle, whose face reddened when angered just the right amount. Riddle, who threw himself into his studies. Riddle, who had one of the most carefree smiles he'd ever seen. Riddle, the one who spoke so gently to Heartslabyul's resident animals. Riddle, who had the pinkest kissable lips he's ever seen…
As if that Riddle would have a boyfriend!
"Great seven, Riddle Rosehearts has a boyfriend!" Azul shouted and slammed his head against his desk, ruffling his hair. What was he thinking!? Of course, someone would notice Riddle eventually! What isn't there to admire? Not like he'd date him or anything, it's a blatant fact that the redhead would make a great partner. Whose Azul to deny basic logic?
He lifted his head, chewing on his nail. The real question is just who this so-called mysterious boyfriend is. It's not as if he's jealous, more so, curious about who managed to win Riddle over. There were far too many possibilities, too many people he couldn't write off yet. Could it be a club member? A dorm member? A fellow housewarden? The prefect?!
He needed to know. A connection like this one could bring him some benefit, after all. Maybe he could offer to cover any duties Riddle needs while he and his 'boyfriend' ran off to some undisclosed date location. The more he thought about it, the more his stomach churned uneasily. He had no idea why. How is it his business if Riddle got himself a date?
"Ah, but it isn't a date, now is it? It's a boyfriend!" Azul stood up, slamming his hands on his desk. He thought the two had grown closer after the entire Styx charade, close enough to disclose romantic interest. Yet Riddle had never even once implied he had a crush on anyone. Had he accepted a confession on the spot? Were they not as close as he assumed?
"No matter… I'll figure out his identity by myself," he vowed. Azul dug around his office, taking out a notepad. He tapped his pen against his chin, mulling over the most likely suspects. He began to jot down a few names, the list growing far longer than he'd like.
"Azul?"
The mer's head snapped up, pen hovering over the page. Jade stood by the door, raising an eyebrow at the slightly disarrayed room. He looked back at where Azul sat, disheveled and wide-eyed. He opened his mouth, but Azul beat him to the punch.
"Were you aware of Rosehearts's getting himself a boyfriend?"
"…Pardon?"
"I heard two first-years gossiping about this particular topic," Azul said. He put his pen down, tapping his finger on his desk. Jade blinked, seemingly puzzled himself. The eel closed the door as he walked further inside. He looked the housewarden up and down with genuine concern.
"Are you feeling quite alright, Azul?" Jade asked. Azul huffed, folding his arms. Is he alright? Why would he ask such a ludicrous question! He's perfectly fine and sane. He just needs to know who this mysterious guy is.
"I'm perfectly fine," Azul assured. He handed the notepad to Jade with a stern expression. "Although you haven't heard my question. Do you know if this rumor is true?" he repeated. The uneasy feeling in his stomach grew. Boyfriend. If this turned out to be a mere lie, Riddle would behead the one behind it without a doubt. If Azul exposed this ringleader to Riddle, the redhead would be grateful. He could almost hear him singing his praises for his benevolence.
— — — — —
The student kneels before them, wide-eyed and pale, a familiar heavy collar locked around their neck. Riddle stood in front of them with a rigid posture, gripping his staff with a bruising grip, the other hand resting on his hip. All the while, he held his chin high, slate eyes glaring down at the cowering student. Azul stood behind him with a smug look, all his compiled evidence held securely in his arm.
The first year swallowed nervously, bowing their head as if to beg for mercy.
"Forgive me, housewarden! I'll never do it again!" they pleaded. Riddle's eyes narrowed. The student began to tremble, and a drop of sweat dripped down his neck. Finally, the housewarden lifted his hand, dismissively waving it. "Thank you, housewarden! I apologize again, housewarden!" they squeaked, clambering to their feet. Their eyes shifted between the two nervously before scrambling down the hall in fear.
Riddle huffed, dusting his clothes off before turning back towards Azul. The crease between his eyes eased until it all but faded away. His typical housewarden act melted away, and he began to relax. His lips curled into a small but appreciative smile, gazing up at Azul with an honest look. It wasn't reserved, but sincere and open.
"You've done me a great favor today, Azul," Riddle said. He took a few steps closer to Azul, folding his arms in front of him. "How could I ever repay you for stopping such rumors?" He asked in a slightly lower voice. Azul offered his usual customer-pleasing smile, readjusting his glasses.
"As the kind, benevolent soul I am, it's only natural I put an end to such gossip about a fellow housewarden," he assured Riddle. The redhead sighed, brushing his hair aside.
"That you are… Still, I insist on repaying you. Tell me, what can I do for you?" Riddle insisted with lidded eyes. "Perhaps…" He began to lean in, and Azul couldn't help but closely follow. Their lips inches from touching to the point they could feel the other's breath-
— — — — —
But what if the rumors are true?
The image of Riddle looking at him with gratitude as he leaned in, shattered instantly.
"There's simply far too many possibilities as to who it can be!" Azul rambled as Jade flipped through the detailed notes. His eyes flicked between the notepad and the frazzled Azul, slowly flipping back to the first page. Azul kept with his theories, each sounding more outlandish than the last. All while Jade stared at him as if he'd banged his head against something.
"But aren't y…" Jade paused as Azul turned towards him with a desperate look. The eel stared at him for a few seconds, his eyes gleaming with mischief. He placed a hand on his chest, acting surprised. "Why, I thought you knew!" he said. The housewarden groaned, dropping his head down onto his desk. Jade's lips curled into an evil grin, resisting the urge to laugh at Azul's exaggerated misery.
"Wait." Azul lifted his head. Jade's expression smoothed back into a neutral stare, leaving no trace of his mischievous smile. "It's all speculation at the moment. There's no definitive proof he's dating someone," he assured himself. He turned towards the other expectantly. Jade tilted his head, pensive.
"On the contrary, I believe I saw Rosehearts sitting happily with him last weekend."
"Last weekend?"
"Yes, here at the Mostro lounge in fact," Jade replied. Azul curled a hand around his chin. It'd been rather busy that weekend… After all, he had held a special discount for those days alone. A festival had arrived in town, set to end at midnight. He knew students would rush to enjoy the festivity and clamor for permission slips. Hence, he had created a special offer at the lounge, a perfect alternative for students who'd been unable to secure a spot.
"The only time I saw Rosehearts that weekend was when he briefly stopped by to talk about dorm duties with me," he said. Although thinking back on it, Riddle had been rather flushed…
"Perhaps this mysterious guy invited him out to eat that day."
"Did you happen to see his face?"
"Apologies, but it was rush hour, I'm afraid he slipped past me."
"Dammit," Azul cursed. He'd only seen Riddle for a few minutes at most that day before he had personally escorted him back. Had his boyfriend camped out in waiting for him? Had he followed them only to whisk Riddle right back when Azul left? He sighed, taking the notepad back from Jade. "Well, thank you for at least dwindling my suspects. I can rule out anyone who was out that afternoon." He scratched names off, oblivious to Jade's knowing smile.
"I'll be off today," Azul said as he pocketed the notepad. He had an investigation to run. "Don't make me regret leaving you in charge," he warned before running out of the office.
Suspect One- Silver.
Azul peered around the stables, watching the equestrian club chat among themselves. His eyes strayed towards Riddle, calmly walking by Vorpal's side, holding her reins in hand. Orderly, dedicated, calm, attractive… Objectively, of course.
The redhead pet Vorpal's hair, seemingly deep in conversation. His eyes flicked to his companion, Silver. Perhaps his theory was right. As far as he knew, the second year had chosen to stay behind during the weekend, something about 'special' plans with someone. Perhaps plans that involved Riddle and him sharing a drink at the lounge! Azul took a deep breath, realizing the absurdity of his claims. He watched as the two club members walked shoulder to shoulder, talking and occasionally laughing.
With them distracted, he swiftly snuck into the stable. He went to the stall furthest back, hiding behind a hay pile. If his memory served him correctly, Riddle had mentioned that the horse who resided in this one would be gone for the week— a special checkup of sorts. The sound of voices and footsteps grew louder until finally, Riddle and Silver entered the stable.
"Thank you again for your help, Silver," Riddle said. Azul's eyes narrowed. Help? What kind of help? He couldn't think of any romantic implications behind his words. "Truthfully, without your help, I'm not sure I could've set everything up for tonight," he added. Plans? For tonight? Was he actually hearing the two plan their secret escapade right before him? He slowly peeked out of the stall, relieved to see their backs turned to him.
If he got caught now, he'd never get his answer regarding this secret lover! All the signs clearly pointed to Silver! He gritted his teeth at the reminder, glaring daggers at the happy couple. He hated the uneasy feeling returning to his stomach. A stupid and persistent feeling he wished would go away.
"It's no issue," Silver said as he turned towards Riddle. He could already imagine whatever date they were planning on. Perhaps a nice stroll on their horses, sneaking off to some hidden trail to bask in each other's presence. They'd probably laugh, talk, smile, and then head all the way down to the lake. A lake where they'd share a kiss without a doubt!
Azul gripped the wooden door tightly, biting his tongue. He's not jealous; he's just being objective. Why would he be jealous? He only wants to know who it was. That's all. Why should he care about who Riddle dates?
"Is there anything I could pay you back with?" Riddle asked as he turned towards Silver. Azul snapped his pen, diving back behind the pile of hay. That line should be directed at him! He should've been the one getting the other's praise! His daydream erased him, replacing him with Silver. He could already imagine them holding hands, staring at each other lovingly, leaning in to-
"I don't find it just to leave this unpaid when you missed the fair to help me set up," Riddle admitted. Azul blinked. Missed the fair? If Silver truly was the secret lover and chosen to stay in, why would he apologize for missing the fair?
"Truthfully, I didn't want to go. It's a bit too crowded for my liking," Silver replied. He brushed his hand across Samson's mane, sighing. "I suppose you can consider that the favor," he assured Riddle. The redhead huffed, folding his arms in disapproval.
Azul couldn't help but feel like an idiot for not realizing that sooner. Of course, Silver wasn't the rumored boyfriend. He'd been too caught up in Idia's rambles regarding Silver's almost princely appearance and attitude that he let his thoughts run wild. He crossed his name off his list, waiting for the two to leave.
"Well, if you insist, I suppose I'll drop it for now," Riddle sighed as he took his helmet off. Azul peeked out again, catching the moment the redhead shook his hair. The mer's cheeks flushed, eyes narrowing. What is with him? "But do feel free to ask for my help whenever you need it," Riddle added. Silver nodded before glancing to the side.
"Do you want me to…?"
"Hm? Oh no, I have no problems with it."
"Are you sure?"
"Positive. As long as tonight's surprise isn't ruined." The two left the stables, but Azul didn't dare peek his head out yet. He waited until both their footsteps and voices faded away before finally letting out a relieved sigh. Thank the seven, the mysterious guy wasn't Silver after all. He stood up, dusting hay off his uniform.
Maybe he should've worn something less likely to stain.
A horse huffed behind him.
Suspect 2- Kalim Al Asim
He tapped his (new) pen against his notepad, rereading the name carefully. If his sources were correct, Kalim had stayed behind that weekend too. Typically, he wouldn't have suspected the heir, but he had sent Jamil out to enjoy himself. Why was he in such a rush to send him off alone? Why not tag along? Or split apart at the festival itself?
Perhaps it was an excuse to secure alone time with Riddle! He had seen him along the way when escorting Riddle back to his dorm on Sunday. What if the heir had seen them and gotten upset that his boyfriend hadn't objected to Azul's offer? Then again, Kalim didn't seem like the jealous type…
Either way, he was a suspect, and Azul can't brush anyone off. He lifted his binoculars, slowly scanning the courtyard. Finally, his gaze landed on the courtyard's fountain where Kalim sat. Now all he has to do is wait. He lowered the binoculars, sighing. He stayed silent, processing the fact that he had climbed onto a tree for this.
'There may be a chance that I'm going overboard…' Azul thought to himself. He leaned back against the tree trunk, frowning. Is all of this worth it? Why was he going to ridiculous lengths to find out who Riddle was dating?
"Why, isn't it obvious, Azul?" he asked himself. He placed a hand on his chest, lifting his head slightly. "It's to find an opening! A way to finally get Riddle's… Riddle's unique magic, of course!" He smirked. There's no issue in his plans, none at all. He looked into his binoculars again, staring at Kalim. The albino perked up, jumping to his feet with a grin. He waved his arms at someone. Azul furrowed his eyebrows, slowly trailing his gaze upwards. Riddle stood on the other end of the courtyard, approaching Kalim. The redhead waved calmly at his fellow housewarden, and Azul's grip on his binoculars tightened.
No, he can't make rash conclusions like last time. They could be meeting for something else, after all.
"Huhh? Sea snake was right!" A familiar voice called to him. Azul scrambled to grab the tree, gasping as his binoculars fell. Floyd caught them with one hand, grinning. He lifted them, looking around for whatever caught the other's attention. "You were spyin' on Goldfishie and Sea Otter?" he said out loud. Azul's cheeks flushed slightly, leaning forward before swiftly hugging the bark again.
"I wasn't spying on them!" Azul argued. Okay, maybe he was, but it's for a good reason. "Hold on, aren't you supposed to be working a shift at the lounge?" he asked. He pushed his sleeve aside, frowning at the time. He looked back at the unimpressed eel, already feeling the headache roll in.
"Yeah, but Sea Snake said yer being all weird. Something-something following someone." Floyd waved his hand dismissively. He threw the binoculars up, Azul narrowly catching them. The octopus mer scoffed before turning his attention back to the earlier pair. The two sat by the fountain, chatting about something.
'I couldn't have missed this much while I was distracted!' he thought. He was hoping to catch any signs of affection between them. Definitive proof of their relationship! Were they friends or lovers? He needs to know! For business reasons, of course.
"I didn't think he'd be right…" Floyd murmured. He grabbed onto a branch and began to lift himself. Azul squawked in protest, but the eel kept climbing. He settled down beside him, unbothered by the glare he received in exchange. "So, what'cha followin' them for?" he asked. He nudged his shoulder, leaning in, invading his space. "Yer not the type to go around like this," he clarified.
Azul grumbled, but his gaze was pinned on the two 'friends'. It's been twenty minutes now, and yet neither seemed too keen on leaving. He hadn't seen them brush hands, share a quick look, or even kiss for the matter! Maybe Kalim isn't Riddle's boyfriend after all. That uneasy feeling went away for a moment, but only for a moment.
"I heard a rumor regarding Riddle. I'm investigating it to test its legitimacy," he admitted. He placed the binoculars onto his lap, his shoulders slumping in relief. "At the moment, I've yet to find any evidence of it being true," Azul chuckled. Now, all he has to do is catch the one who spread this rumor to begin with and show him off to Riddle! The redhead would be so grateful he'd-
"Oh, goldfishie's boyfriend!" Floyd exclaimed. Azul's glasses cracked. He slowly turned towards Floyd with a strained smile. Once more, his dreams were shattered.
"You… knew of this rumor?" he laughed. He swears if Floyd somehow caught the culprit before him, he'd be doomed!
"Duh. Everyone's talkin' about it," he answered. Azul pinched the bridge of his nose, cursing his luck. That doesn't mean they're real! He still has a chance to swoop in! He looked back at his list, noting the last name. He knew he was grasping at straws to consider Floyd, but there could be something there. Something Azul hasn't seen.
'Such as this mysterious boyfriend,' he added bitterly. Azul cleared his throat, leaning in slightly. Floyd scrunched his nose, looking at the other weirdly. "Floyd, are you the one dating him?" he asked suspiciously.
"Huh? Goldfishie is fun an' all, but we aren't datin'." Floyd shrugged. Again, Azul let out a relieved sigh. He scratched the eel's name of his list, leaving him with a final two suspects. "…'Sides, he's got a boyfriend already. Yer supposed to know this," he reminded.
"Wait, you're saying I personally know them?! How close are we?" Azul demanded frantically. The eel recoiled, furrowing his eyebrows. He stared him down before a knowing look dawned on his face.
"Ooh, is this what Jade was talkin' about?" Floyd snickered. He rubbed his shoulder, mischief gleaming in his eyes. "Yeah, ya seen him before," he added. Azul flipped to a new page, hastily scribbling down the new tips. He's finally a step closer to finding out who this guy is! Once he finally found out his identity, he could figure out what Riddle saw in him. Was he attractive? Funny? Kind? Who's he kidding, kind? In Night Raven College, as if!
But then again… what if it's Yuu? They might be the only ones with the cleanest record.
"It ain't Sea Otter, by the way," Floyd said. Azul looked over at the eel. The taller jumped down, catching himself easily. He stretched his arms, looking back at Azul. "Goldfish just asked for some decorations. Somethin' about tonight's plan," he added.
"Of course! He mentioned setting something up with Silver earlier today!" Azul pocketed his notepad. He carefully made his way back to the trunk, hesitantly climbing his way down the tree. He landed with a soft thump, narrowly losing his footing. "Logically, it must be a date!" he shouted. If he could figure out when and where the date is happening, he could finally pin a face to this guy!
"Hold on a minute… Don't I have a me-"
"I heard him talkin to Sea Turtle about it," Floyd interrupted him.
"Are you talking about Clover?"
"Last I checked, they were plannin' the thing together. Maybe he's the one goldfish picked?"
"I'll have to look into that."
"Hm? No thank you?"
"…Go back to your shift before I dock you for the time you slacked off."
"Aww, that's not fair, Azul!"
Suspect 3- Trey Clover
Sneaking into Heartslabyul was far harder than his previous attempts. For one, the layout issue. It's a complex place of endless rules, and every stair leads to another maze. The more seasoned card soldiers knew their way around the dorm, which logically made them perfect guides. But that fell into the second issue, loyalty. He doubts most of them would be willing to show Azul anywhere in the dorm, especially if he refused to admit why he was determined to sneak in. He couldn't risk this being reported back to Riddle. He's the one he's trying to investigate.
Which is why finding his way up to Heartslabyul's roof was the only safe option.
"Sevens, I've really lost my mind," Azul mumbled as he sat near the edge. He threaded a hand through his hair, sighing. He's gone to great lengths over a mere rumor— one that's been confirmed as true by Floyd. But why? Why was he going to such great lengths to find out who Riddle's boyfriend was? More importantly, why does he get a restless feeling whenever he thinks of it?
Why is he acting so out of character over the image of Riddle grabbing another man's hand, laughing and smiling with him?
Why does the idea of Riddle being his most honest self with someone else bother him so much?
Azul brought a hand to his chest, squeezing it slightly. Maybe he should give up on this operation. He should return to the lounge and focus on what matters instead of wasting his time. He turned around, the corner of his eye catching a familiar patch of red hair. He dropped down without hesitation, digging through his bag. He took out his trusty pair of binoculars, a backup telescope in his bag should it not provide enough coverage.
Riddle came out of Heartslabyul's dorm with his head held up high. Oddly enough, he wasn't wearing his dorm or school uniform. Instead, he donned a more casual suit. Azul had to admit it suited him perfectly.
"So I was right about you planning a date…." Azul bit his tongue, envying the guy who'd see the housewarden. That someone, he's certain, would be Trey Clover. Nobody else remained on his list, and compared to Trey, nobody held the same status.
Childhood best friends weren't somebody you'd easily forget.
Why hadn't he suspected that sooner? Trey and Riddle were undeniably close. He'd even say Trey is the closest person to Riddle overall. Logically, he should've been the first one he followed. It would've saved Azul a lot of agonizing. He shook his head, squinting his eyes to get a better look.
Trey came out seconds later. The mer waited for the moment they'd lace hands and go off to wherever the setup date would be. If they were running off this late… what if they got engaged?! Then it would really be over, and all of his work would be for nothing!
The two talked amongst themselves, and Azul braced himself for that affectionate display. It was over. The rumors were true after all. Riddle Rosehearts had a boyfriend, who was none other than— Cater Diamond!?
The third year appeared out of nowhere, wrapping an arm around Riddle's shoulder. He pulled Riddle closer, burying the other's face in his chest. Riddle's ears reddened slightly, pulling away lightly. He didn't shove or scold him. No, instead, he gently moved away while the former grinned.
Azul looked back at his notes in disbelief. He hadn't considered Cater as a candidate once! How could he have overlooked him? If he thought over it carefully, he had never once seen Riddle collar the ginger. What if he secretly had a crush on Cater all along and therefore never once collared him!? And such avoidance led to Cater finding out before he asked him out, which naturally would have Riddle eagerly agree?!
How could he compete with Cater, whose record was spotless with Riddle?!
Azul's grip tightened, chewing on his thumb. If he thought it was over with Trey, with Cater, he was effectively gone. Nothing he'd do would allow him to recover from this. He watched the pair exchange a heated talk before Trey stepped in. He placed his hand on both their shoulders, and another thought occurred to Azul.
What if he's dating both?!
Is their greed endless?!
"Why am I acting like this?" Azul mumbled, burying his face in his hands. Every last bit of these strange emotions leads back to Riddle. Could he actually…
His phone chimed, breaking his attention away from the couple. He dug it out of his pocket and tapped it. The screen lit up: Meeting with Riddle at 7 pm. His eyes flicked to the time before pailing.
"Shit, I only have twenty minutes to get there!" he screeched as he scrambled to get off the roof. In his rush, he never noticed Riddle accept a basket from Trey, waving to the two seniors before walking away with a flustered smile.
Riddle stood by the mirror chamber, occasionally checking his watch with a frown. He paused as heavy footsteps caught his attention, turning around to witness Azul running over to him.
"Rosehearts!" he shouted, finally slowing down to a stop beside him. He hunched over slightly, resisting a hand on his knees while holding the other up. He coughed, chest heaving. Finally, he straightened his posture as he dusted himself off. "Apologies for the long wait. I was…" Azul cleared his throat. "I was tending to an issue at the lounge," he lied. Riddle raised an eyebrow at the excuse, scanning him carefully.
Azul wasn't any better as he found himself staring at Riddle's lips, particularly the heart-shaped print on them. That was certainly new… He couldn't deny the appeal; somehow, they brought out his beauty even more. Objectively, of course.
"I suppose I can permit this to be for now," he agreed. Azul let out a relieved sigh, shoulders easing. "But…! Only this once, don't make this a habit," Riddle scolded. The mer forced a smile, nodding at the lecture. He shouldn't have let the tweels drag him back! They seemed rather insistent on getting him into fancier clothing instead of his uniform. No matter what he said or did, they dragged him back for a 'fresher' look.
"Well then, shall we begin?" Azul asked, tilting his head. Riddle's ear reddened slightly before he held his arm out.
'Oh, it's probably one of his rules,' the mer thought to himself. He wrapped his arm around Riddle's and the two headed into Heartslabyul's mirror, much to his surprise. He had assumed they'd hold their meeting elsewhere, but perhaps his fellow housewarden wanted to discuss something more privately. He glanced at the other, noting his pleased expression— thinking about his date with this 'boyfriend' no doubt. Or perhaps he should say his boyfriends. Azul looked away, biting his lip. He had to keep calm. After all, Riddle didn't have a clue that he knew.
The two continued their walk up the empty path until they arrived at a lit gazebo, blooming flowers surrounding them. Azul blinked, looking around. There were faint fairy lights strung around the dome roof, a picnic table neatly set inside it with a basket already waiting. A few fireflies hung around the area, adding an extra shine to the calming surroundings. He furrowed his eyebrows, puzzled. If he didn't know any better, he'd assume this was a date location. Had their meeting been a secret setup for him to improve the scene?
"This is quite the lovely scene you've set," Azul complimented. He's certain Riddle's boyfriends would love it. He needs to get over his petty grudge and find something else to distract his mind. Something preferably far from the housewarden.
"I'm glad you think so," Riddle hummed as he led him further into the setup. "Here, sit," he insisted. Azul reluctantly sat on the blanket, watching Riddle light a few more lanterns.
"Is there a special occasion that I'm missing?" he asked. "I do apologize if it slipped my mind," he said. Riddle shook his head as he turned towards him, face flushed.
"Ah, no, it was… something I did on a whim," Riddle answered before walking over. His cologne lingers with every step. A new one too, considering it lacks the distinct floral scent Riddle carried on to more important events. He couldn't even find an excuse for why he knew it well, either.
"Cater told me some people do it to celebrate a newfound relationship," Riddle explained as he sat down next to Azul. He opened the basket, taking out some food containers. He laid them out across the blanket between them, opening the final one. The lid popped, a trail of steam rising. Azul peered closer, admiring the texture. "I hope you don't mind I told them about us dating," Riddle added.
"Hm? Oh yes, no issue." Azul waved it off. The redhead smiled, offering him a fork. He took it before freezing. "Wait, dating?!" he screeched. Riddle froze mid-bite, lowering his fork with a puzzled expression.
"Yes, dating," he repeated hesitantly. "Azul, we've been dating for the past month," Riddle scoffed as he folded his arms. He seemed disappointed in the other for forgetting. Azul, on the other hand, tried to find any form of explanation. Since when?! Yes, for a month now, but how! He doesn't recall asking him out!
"All the rumors about your secret boyfriend… They've been about me all along?!"
"Is that why you've been trailing me all day?!"
"You knew?!"
"Of course! But I thought it was you trying to find out today's surprise!"
"But the tweels said…!"
Those damn twins! They lied to him! No wonder they'd been snickering behind his back this entire time. Azul covered his face, flushed with shame. He can't believe it. He'd spent the entire time brewing in jealousy for nothing!
"Were you jealous, Azul?" Riddle asked, his voice taking a teasing tone. The mer jolted, whipping his head around. The redhead wore a smug expression, and Azul began to stammer. Unable to contain it, Riddle began to laugh. His laugh faded to a sigh, glaring at his boyfriend. "Though, on a serious note, who forgets their own boyfriend?" he hissed.
"I don't recall ever asking you out! Not that I'm saying I'm breaking up with you, it's just-!
"February 14, you came to me with gifts and all. Everything you did that day lined up with the Queen of Hearts' courting manual."
"…Huh?"
"The tweels had these knowing expressions as well, so I assumed you had read it just to ask me out… I can see now that was a bit ahead of me."
They settled into an awkward silence, avoiding eye contact. Azul wasn't sure if he should throw himself into the sea from embarrassment or shout with joy at this development. Either way, he's going to wrangle those troublesome eels for their little prank. Azul Ashengrotto, Riddle Roseheart's beloved. That does have a nice ring to it…
He cleared his throat, getting Riddle's attention. The redhead looked at him expectantly, as if awaiting Azul to declare this whole thing a misunderstanding. But the mer refused to do that. No, he'd be a fool to turn down Riddle.
"If we're dating," Azul began. "Does that mean I can…?" His gaze lowered to Riddle's lips, admiring the new style. The redhead scoffed, grabbing his tie and yanking him forward. He crashed their lips together, and Azul gasped. He stared at him with wide eyes before closing his eyes, resting his hand on Riddle's neck.
They finally pulled away with heaving chest and puffy lips. Riddle looked down, swiping his thumb across Azul's bottom lip.
"Shame… I practiced to get that design perfect, and now it's all smudged," he lamented. Azul swallowed nervously. Maybe he should thank the tweels instead.