Lucian eyes were watching as they walked. He was looking for anyone who was following them or anyone who looked at them with interest. Perhaps he was a little paranoid. Perhaps a little more than paranoid. He didn't relax until the door clicked shut and they were safely in Abrose's room. He felt a weight lift off his shoulders and he visibly relaxed. He looked around the room, smiling. He could still remember the mess they had cleaned up earlier this morning. The next time there was a mess of clothes on the floor, it was going to be because of Lucian. Not because Abrose couldn't figure out what to wear.
Lucian bent his head to return the kiss. He smirked down at him. "I'll be good. This time." he winked down at him. He placed his hands on Abrose's hips, drawing him for another kiss, deepening this one. Then he released him and watched as Abrose walked away to shower. While Lucian could benefit from a shower as well, he wasn't nearly as dirty as Abrose. And he took a deep pride knowing he was the reason for Abrose for being dirty. Even if it wasn't the way he wanted him to be. Lucian took a seat at Abrose's desk, deciding not to sit on the bed. He didn't want to feel like he was pressuring Abrose nor did he want to worry about getting the sheets dirty.
As much as Abrose wanted to be with Lucian every moment they were allowed, Abrose couldn't deny how good the shower felt. His tired body practically melted when met with the warm water, making him almost reluctant to ever leave. But something warmer, someone even more lovely was waiting outside for him. So, as much as Abrose yearned to stay in the shower, Abrose yearned for Lucian more. He showered efficiently, knowing the faster he showered, the more time he'd get with Lucian and to sleep before his royal duties called. A shorter shower also meant less to time contemplate his less savory fantasies. He wasn't going to deny himself those thoughts completely, especially having Lucian just a room away but indulging in them wouldn't be the of his ideas smartest. He told himself the more patient he was the better the reward. Only a few more days until they'd be completely alone, where Lucian could be his and he could completely be Lucian without fear of being found out.
Abrose regretfully stepped out of the shower and changed into clothes more suited for milling about the castle than presenting himself to the kingdom but Abrose had little to no plans of going out after training. He was determined to study and attend a few meetings today. His small reprieve would be this and later when he went to bed. No need to look fancy for an entire day of sitting and trying not to fall asleep. He tugged on the loose cotton shirt and silky pants, reasoning that if these were fitting enough to casually be at the castle then it would be comfortable to nap in.
He gave his hair a good ruffling with a towel to dry it before stepping back into his room. "You're more than welcome to shower if you'd like, darling." He invited, tossing his sweaty clothes into a basket in the corner of the room before walking over to Lucian. Taking the rare opportunity of being taller, Abrose gently wrapped his arm around Lucian's neck and pressed a kiss to his hair. "I was planning on napping before starting to look through those again." He explained, reaching over his desk to show Lucian the notes he had attempted to start the night before sleep had won that fight shortly after he had gotten to his room. He broke away to tug close the curtains, offering some sort of comforting darkness to his room, even as the sun was in full view this late into the morning. He tilted his head as he sat on the edge of his bed before a small smile broke out of his face. "My Lucian, please tell me you don't plan on sitting there the entire time I nap? That wasn't the reason I wanted you to stay, in case that hadn' been obvious before."
As tempting as it would have been to look through Abrose's room, even Lucian knew better than to snoop. He would have liked to see all the different trinkets that Abrose had collected and what he had decorated his room with. He would have loved to see the discarded papers and analyze the paintings he had chosen. But Lucian would be good and stay in his seat. Because no matter how tempting it was to look for just even a second, he wouldn't betray Abrose like that. Though he had a feeling his little prince would mind all too much, with his permission of course. So instead, Lucian stayed seated at the desk, drumming his fingers on the dark wood and paying perhaps a little too much attention to the door and windows. A bad habit he doubted he would ever lose. He was always aware of all the exits and entrances in a room, paranoid that something might come through. He blamed it on his years spent in the army before coming to the palace. He hadn't seen much action here as a palace guard other than maybe a crowd getting too rowdy or courtiers getting too drunk. But just because he hadn't seen conflict doesn't mean he wouldn't be ready if it ever came to his doorstep.
He looked over as Abrose came back into the room, returning the smile as he approached Lucian. He placed his hands on his hips, angling his face up to return the kiss. He almost pulled Abrose back into him to continue the kiss, but, well, he really should shower. He watched Abrose for a moment longer before standing. "I'll shower quick, love. Try not to fall asleep while I'm gone. You do owe me, remember." He winked at him before stepped into the bathroom and clicking the door shut. He took a quick shower, not bothering to wash his hair today. He scrubbed his body under the hot water before stepped out and drying off. He didn't have anything to change into other than his training clothes. Thankfully he hadn't gotten them too dirty so it should be alright as long as he didn't stay in them for hours. He dressed and stepped back out into the bedroom, barefoot.
"I'll be awaiting you, my dear. How could I forget our little agreement?" Abrose cooed, laughing lightly before taking up Lucian's spot at his desk and opening the first of the few books in his collection to see if he could spark some motivation to study before they slept for a bit. A spark of pride flared in Abrose's chest as he glanced towards where Lucian had disappeared to the bathroom. This was all he had wanted, for them to share a space, to be happy together. Despite this experience being new for both of them, it felt as natural as breathing. Lightly tapping his ben against his desk, Abrose smiled to himself before steeling himself and scribbling down notes. eventually, he got into a rhythm and intense focus as he got into the history of his kingdom.
While studying had never been his strong suit, Abrose did enjoy the act of learning, so long as it was on his terms. While researching his kingdom for the sake of trying to prevent a forced marriage didn't entirely seem like his choice, Abrose could push past that for now and hone in on what was in front of him for a bit. It just took him a while. Once he got past the general wars, land treaties, and political introductions, he was able to more easily find interest in his kingdom's customs, the reasoning behind some treaties, and even an interesting instance where are continuing treating was formed under an alliance and how that has lead to a pattern of sorts where marriage was not always strictly required. He made sure to make a note of this, even if the treaty had nothing to do with the warring kingdom. Perhaps this was something to bring up at the next meeting. He wasn't naive enough to immediately think that bringing up a random treaty from who knows how long ago would suddenly change his parent's mind on the marriage, much less change the tides of a potential war, but perhaps a reminder that there were other options was needed. Abrose pushed aside the book he was currently reading to dig through his pile and open another book on records to cross-examine a few notes he had made, eventually moving to the floor when he realized he would need more than just his desk space to work.
"You were right, that was fast." Abrose mused from where he saw crouched over a book on traditions from surrounding kingdoms, hoping to find some on Amire's kingdom. it couldn't hurt knowing his customs and traditions, even if he would never rule alongside him as king consort. he also thought it a good reprieve from all the heavy academic reading he had been doing for a while. "I didn't realize celebrating the winter season was of such importance to them. Usually, you see people celebrating the end of winter, the coming of spring, and warmer weather. The chance for new crops to grow, for life to begin anew, yet they seem to have the same appreciation for the colder months of the year." Abrose rarely saw winters heavier than a few inches of snow every couple of years. Avrile was known for its warmth and its generous prosperity in the spring and summer, something other kingdoms had taken advantage of in the form of trade and export. Abrose found it intriguing, how Amire's people adapted to the winter and even cherished its existence just as much as Avrile loved their warmer season. "they have festivals and markets. Even a winter holy night." He turned the book around to show Lucian paintings depicted in the book, showing a traditional church scene filled with people in white and carrying glass lanterns in the shape of intricate snowflakes.
Lucian had stood in the doorway of the bathroom for a lot longer than was likely deemed acceptable. He leaned against the wood of the doorway, arms crossed, and watching Abrose with a small smile. He watched the prince hunch over the desk, combing through the book. He watched as Abrose moved to the floor, spreading the books around him, eyes furrowed in concentration. If Lucian didn't know any better, he'd might mistake him for a scholar. He had finished up his shower awhile ago. It had only taken him a couples minutes to wash, a trick picked up in the army. Showers were few and hot showers were fewer. If you used up all the hot water, good luck. Abrose must have been too deep in his readings to notice that Lucian had shit off the water or opened the door. And since he hadn't noticed him, he was content to watching him work. He liked to watch Abrose. The way he fidgeting during his lessons, the way he smiled with Chire. He liked to watch all of it.
Finally, he could resist the pull no longer and strode across the floor over to Abrose, his footsteps loud enough for Abrose to pick up. He sat down on the floor behind him, brining Abrose to his chest. His feet were planted on either side of him and wrapped an arm around his waist. Lucian looked down at the book as it was shown to him, smiling and kissing Abrose's cheek. "It's beautiful. Now come. Books can wait, you need to rest." He stood. Bit instead of helping Abrose up, he grabbed him and lifted him up in his arms, grinning at him. "Now, we can do one of two things," he said, "We can go lie down and you can sleep for a couple hours before we start our day. Or, we can lie down and we can spend these next couple of hours kissing and maybe get some sleep."
Abrose tore his intense focus away from the books and notes scattered across his floor when he heard Lucian approach, smiling as he let Lucian pull him against his chest. Abrose happily abandoned his research and nestled into Lucian's warm embrace, breathing him in and enjoying their closeness, now that they had a moment alone. "And here I thought you were the one who was going to encourage studying. I'm starting to think you don't want me to study at all, my dear. This is what? now the second time we have forfeited books to be with each other instead." He teased, his smile only growing as he was scooped up by Lucian and brought to bed.
"I promised you we'd continue that kiss. If you think I'm going to pass an opportunity like that for sleep then you don't know me as well as I hoped, darling," he murmured, gently tugging Lucian down with him once he was settled in bed, hungrily resuming their kiss from earlier that morning, the only difference now being that they didn't need to stop. Abrose started slow and tentative, wanting to take his time with Lucian and explore but he quickly realized he was done waiting around for the person he wanted to love the most. His hands roved over Lucian's body, lightly skimming over his shirt, tracing over his curves, committing what he had memorized from their training to physical touch. This was his Lucian, in the flesh. All his glorious, beautiful, realness. not just a fantasy, and not just a guard. He was here, in front of him, in his room, in his bed, loving him just as desperately as Abrose was. As much as Abrose regretted waiting for so long, he didn't think he could be happier than he was now.
Lucian nuzzled his face into his neck, placing a gentle kiss to the skin under his ear. His arms tightened around his waist for a moment before moving to gather Abrose in his arms. "And yet even I know there are times for studying, darling, and this is not one of those times. You have a promise to fulfill and you can't very well do that if you're reading books on the floor." He couldn't imagine that the floor was comfortable. If he wanted to spread out, Abrose could have moved to the bed. There would have been plenty of room to place the books and he would have been comfortable. then again, Lucian was too impatient to be kind to books and he would have swept them all off the bed to make room for Abrose and himself.
Lucian laid Abrose down on the bed with tender care. As Abrose had situated himself, Lucian climbed up on the bed and climbed over Abrose, grinning as he was tugged into a kiss. He reciprocated the kiss, kissing Abrose tantalizingly slow. Abrose was greedy and trying to increase the intensity of the kiss. But Lucian didn't want it hard and fast. Not now. He wanted it slow and to take his time and explore every ridge and dimple of Abrose's body. "Patience, my love," he murmured. His lips broke away from the kiss only to skim his lips across his cheek and down to his jaw. His teeth nipped at his kiss before continuing his kisses down to his neck. He debated pulling back Abrose's shirt to continue further down but he knew better than to tempt himself.
Lucian was right, Abrose was hungry, and more than that, he was starving. Not enough of Lucian was in contact with Abrose and he was going so painfully slow. From last night and this morning, Abrose had assumed this was what they had both wanted, the sudden rush of adrenaline and fierceness that came with finally being with each other. It's what Abrose had been feeling up until now. Had he been wrong in assuming that was what Lucian had wanted? Was he not fulfilling his promise? Abrose broke away and took in a few deep breaths, trying to understand what was so wrong with wanting Lucian like this. then it hit him. Abrose had gone into this as he had with everyone else he had one night stands and flings with. Hard and fast, as if he predicted nothing would come of that relationship. As if he was searching for something, someone, and when he came to the abrupt realization none of them would be Lucian, he would try and finish as fast as he could and move on. But this was Lucian. this wasn't some one-night fling for satisfaction or company, this was Lucian and Abrose prayed to the gods above that he would stay. He didn't need to rush with Lucian. There was nothing to rush over when he was here with Abrose.
Abrose slowly released Lucian's shirt from where he had bunched it in his hands in desperation to get him closer and fully relaxed into the comfort of his bed, having not realized just how awkwardly tense he had bunched himself beneath Lucian. He looked up at Lucian, offering an apologetic smile and giving him a more gentle, slow kiss. "for you my patience is infinite." he murmured, his eyes fluttering in pleasure as Lucian's lips traveled over his skin, not exactly in a kiss. Abrose supposed he deserved that for all the teasing he had put Lucian through in the past few hours. He wrapped his arms around Lucian as his head dipped down towards his neck, his finger winding through his hair rhythmically, finding the motion calming even as his heart beat wildly in his chest at every breath Lucian breathed onto him. "It's alright if you want to move it." He muttered, tugging the shoulder of his sleeve down in silent invitation. He gently cupped Lucian's chin and dipped his head into another kiss, beginning slower this time and allowing himself to enjoy Lucian's presence, his comforting weight atop him, rediscovering aspect of his guard he would have never noticed if he weren't this close, and loving every moment.
Lucian felt Abrose slowly relax under him as he pressed kisses along his skin. Abrose had wanted more, as if Lucian was some passing fling. He understood the feeling. He had his own fair share of one night stands. He wasn't insulted. He was only sad that Abrose had never known patience. That he had never had anything slow and loving. Lucian planned to change that starting now. He was going to take his time. He was going to spend many days exploring every inch of Abrose's body. They had all the time in the world if only they took it. This was Abrose. This was the boy he loved whole heartedly. This was the boy he had loved for years and yet he hadn't even been able to reach out and touch him. and now that he could, he almost didn't know where to start. Almost. He started with his lips, kissing and exploring. His jaw and neck would follow, nipping at the skin. His chest would come next where Lucian would pay special attention to certain parts of his chest. Then he would kiss down to his stomach before showing Abrose how much Lucian worshipped him. He wanted to show Abrose what love was. What it felt like to be loved.
Lucian accepted his soft, apologetic kiss even if he had nothing to apologize for. They were both learning. they were learning what the other needed, what they wanted. Abrose wanted something faster but what he needed was something slower. Rougher nights could come later, after Lucian had a chance to explore his body and show him what love was really like. He smiled down at Abrose, and accepted the second kiss. He deepened this kiss, exploring his mouth and his hands roaming his body. His hands slipped up Abrose's shirt, hands landing on his sides and back. Smooth skin. That was the first thing that came to mind. His skin was smooth whereas Lucian's was not. Lucian had a long scar running from his chest down to his side, jagged and rough to the touch. A scar that had once brought him shame that he was now proud to wear.
Abrose couldn't help the soft moans of pleasure from escaping his lips as Lucian found every conceivable sensitive place on his neck and shoulders. Or perhaps it was just the fact that he was sensitive to only Lucian. Every point of contact, no matter how brief sent a shiver throughout his body and he hoped that excitment would never get old, no matter how long they were together.
He gently tugged at Lucian's shirt, preoccupying himself with finding Lucian's sensitive spots when he wasn't being kissed senseless. Abrose had seen the scar even before their training, had heard about it from passing guards and from his brother after that had come back from their year on the battlefield. Abrose had been mortified and beyond angry but he couldn't show any such emotions as a prince. Any show of favoritsm towards a guard or opposition to his parents decision would be reflect poorly on himself and even worse on Lucian so had kept quiet but now, in the privacy of his room, Abrose could care less about what anyone thought. Abrose helped with tugging off his shirt the rest of the way, trying to ignore the blush of embarrassment that rose up his neck at being exposed to Lucian, reminding himself that this was exactly he had been waiting for years. The initial shyness that agiven but this was Lucian, not some random stranger. He of all people would understand and still love Abrose for who he was. Abrose slowly slipped his hand beneath Lucian's shirt, giving him time to move away or protest if he wanted. Abrose wanted to have the same confidence Lucina had with handling his body but he couldn't bring himself to rush. Despite all they had been through together, Lucian was new to Abrose like this, and Abrose was slowly starting to understand why taking time to explore each other was so vital. He found the beginning of the scar on Lucian's chest, lightening his touch when he was met with rough skin and slowly started trailing it to where it ended on his hip. To even imagine what or who could have possibly done this to his Lucian was unfathomable to Abrose. He didn't want to think of what Lucian and Chire had gone through in those years they had been sent away to the front lines, yet here was physical proof that there was something truely terrifying awaiting their kingdom. Abrose arched up to press against Lucian's form, craving his solid warmth instead of the images he had conjured in his mind. He pressed gentle kisses to any part of Lucian that was blocked by clothing. "My beautiful, brave, guardian." He murmured adoringly, gratefully, lovingly. "When this is all over, you are to take a very long vacation." He grinned, kissing Lucian. "Name the place you want to go and we'll go for however long you'd like."
Lucian hid his smile in Abrose's neck as he started lifting off his shirt. He hadn't expected for Abrose to voluntarily start to strip, at least not yet, but he found that he wasn't upset with it in the slightest. It gave him free access to his upper body and allowed him to truly look at Abrose. Where Lucian had discarded his shirt during training, the prince had not. The more he thought about it, the more that Lucian realized he didn't think he had ever seen Abrose in any level of undress. It would have been much to scandalous for him to see such a thing, as he was Abrose's guard. He wasn't meant to see him disrobed unless it be a dire situation. But there was no one around watching them. There was no one to keep either of them from shedding his clothes. So as Abrose started lifting his shirt, Lucian did the rest, pulling it over the prince's head and throwing it to the side. Perhaps the first time he was willing to make a mess.
He felt Abrose's hands soon find his own chest. He nipped at his throat, a small move of encouragement, and leaned his chest into his hands. He wanted Abrose to touch him. He wanted to feel those smooth hands on his body. He wanted to feel those nails gripping and tearing into his skin as he- No, he was getting off track now. He needed to focus. This was about Abrose right now. Not about himself. And not about going there. Not today. He was going to do this right. He was going to court Abrose, even if it had to be in secret for now. He sat up for a moment, separating their contact, but only to drag his shirt over his chest and expose himself to Abrose. For a second time. But that had been training. And this was intimate. They could fully enjoy themselves and appreciate one another. He slowly lowered himself back down, covering Abrose's body with his own. He forewent his lips and instead kissed the other side of his neck. As he spoke, Lucian raised his head, smiling down at him. "Anywhere I want hmm?" He chuckled quietly as he kissed him gently. "That's a lot of possibilities," he mulled over, "but as long as I'm with you, I don't care where we go."
Abrose gave a playful glare when Lucian tossed aside his shirt, about to comment how they had just tidied the room hours ago but was quickly silenced by kisses and teasing biting at his neck. "Vicious beast," Abrose teased through a gasp, trying his best to be careful about Lucian's scar but all too easily gave into the physical pressure and flattened his hands against Lucian's chest. His hands found his hearbeat, his sternum, the curve of his ribcage, the end and beginning of the scar, his strong shoulders, all of Lucian was beautiful and warm and all entirely for Abrose's enjoyment.
Abrose glanced up as Lucian broke away, a flicker of worry crossing his features before realizing Lucian was finally getting rid of the one thing that was annoyingly in their way. He didn't even care that his room was untidy once again as he greedily welcomed Lucian back into his embrace. He even hooked his leg around Lucian's waist just to make sure he couldn't escape again, wanting to spend however long they had left inseparable in his bed. His hands found their way back into Lucian's hair, giving a gentle yet poignant tug whenever Luscian found a particularly sensitive spot on his neck. "Anywhere you'd like," Abrose confirmed, silently hoping, no, begging anyone who would listen to allow him to live long enough to where he could wake up every day and see Lucian smiling beside him. "Hm, there are," he murmured against his lover's lips. "There has to be one place you've dreamed about going. Even if it's close by." He urged gently, slowly detangling the disturbed sheets from around them and wrapping them around them both for warmth. "Somewhere you visited as a child and would want to see again, or somewhere the other soldiers have been that sparked your interest."
Lucian gently grabbed Abrose's hand and placed it directly on his scar. He had felt Abrose skirting around it, trying to be cautious. But it was an old wound, long healed and gave him no discomfort. Other than the occasional itching and occasional tightness twisting his waist, it was nothing but a passing thought. He didn't want Abrose to think he couldn't touch it or that he was going to hurt to hurt him. Nothing he could do would ever hurt Lucian. He kissed the underside of his jaw to encourage him. He wanted Abrose to touch him. He wanted Abrose to explore his body just as much as Lucian wanted to explore his.
Lucian slipped his hand down to cup the thigh of the leg Abrose had wrapped around his waist. His grip was almost bruising. As if he couldn't believe that he was here in bed with Abrose. That this was really happening and not some dream that Lucian had imagined. He let out a soft moan as he felt hands tugging his hair. After giving his neck a small nibble, he moved up to kiss his lips. His greatest regret was that he was unable to leave any hickies on Abrose's body. At least nowhere he wanted to leave them. He wanted to mark up his neck and boast to everyone that Abrose was his. He kissed him slowly. "I only want to be," he murmured between kisses, "wherever you are." He aided Abrose in covering them with the sheets. He settled further in between Abrose's legs, being careful not to put his full weight on the prince. He kissed him again. "I've never been to the beach," he said after another kiss, "How does that sound?"
For just a moment Abrose hesitated as Lucian took his hand and pressed it to his chest with such confidence Abrose wished he had. As much as Abrose craved to touch Lucian, to become painfully familiar with every inch of his body, this felt deeper than that. Abrose's gaze flicked up to Lucian's for a brief second before he was assaulted again by his kisses. He couldn't help but smile, Lucian's enthusiasm contagious. It would take time to get used to all of this, and even longer to learn patience when their entire day was spent around each other but moments like these would always be received with much gratitude. Abrose now directly followed the scar instead of tracing around it, fascinated by how it twisted around muscles and ribs before abruptly stopping at Lucian's side.
Abrose was brought out of his entrancement as Lucian gripped his leg, barely stifling a groan of pleasure against his shoulder as he was pulled closer. His only reprieve before they continued devouring each other in kisses was the joy he got from Lucian's little sounds when Abrose would gently tug at his hair. But those would only happen if Lucian found Abrose's sensitive spots, which, judging by the already reddening skin on his chest and shoulders was all of him. Mercifully, Lucian had left his neck relatively untouched, at least from marks. The rest he would regretfully have to cover up until they healed.
"Always, my love." He reassured softly, gently cupping Lucian's cheek and returning the kiss as they found a new warmth under the blankets. "The beach it is then." he declared against the kiss, barely even speaking but saying it out loud in a whisper was equally as solidifying. The fact that they were making plans outside of their little secret bubble was exhilarating to Abrose. They would travel, see the world, and experience new things together. "Almost too good to be true." He laughed softly, gently tugging Lucian to him, silently reassuring him he'd be fine with the weight, so long as Lucian was close.
Lucian shivered as he felt Abrose's soft hand trail across his body, following the scar that cleaved his torso. It was a good shiver, a good feeling, something he so rarely felt when it came to his scar. He never let anyone touch it. Anyone but Abrose. The taunt skin was a reminder to him of a past life. And while he had accepted it and moved on, it wasn't a part of him that he ever wanted to share with anyone. Not until now. Not until Abrose. He wanted to share every piece of him with Abrose. The good, the bad, all of it. And this scar was the start of it. One day he would tell Abrose the story. One day when they weren't in the palace and surrounded by others. When they were locked away, alone and only had each other for company. Then he would feel comfortable and safe to share with Abrose the truth behind the scar on his body. The story that led him to it. But today was not that day. Today Lucian was taking advantage of the little time they had in private to get to know each other's bodies.
His lips perked up in a smirk as Abrose reacted to him gripped his thigh. His little prince seemed to like it when Lucian was a bit rougher with him. Lucian could get rough. He could dominate and take control. But they had plenty of time for that. They had days and days he could spend with Abrose truly showing him every aspect of himself. But Lucian would take his time first. He couldn't wait for the day he could leave deep marks along his neck but the thrill of hiding their relationship and having to hide their affair was almost as appealing. While Lucian truly couldn't care where they went, he couldn't deny the spark of excitement of going to the beach. He heard mixed reviews, people loving the sand, people hating the sand. The warmth of the sun, the sting of the rays. The beauty of the ocean, the stickiness of the water. And yet he wanted to experience but only if Abrose was by his side. He could enjoy himself anywhere as long as his love was by his side.
He settled his body reluctantly on top of Abrose as he pulled Lucian down on him. He worried about crushing the prince beneath him and kept his arm stationed by Abrose's head ready to push himself off of him if his weight was too much. "Hush, love, you'll jinx it," he murmured as he lowered his lips to Abrose's. Lucian began to stroke the thigh that he had gripped. He worried if he held him any longer then he might leave a Lucian sized handprint on his thigh. And while the though of leaving a handprint on him was appealing, now was not the time. "You are a vision, my love," he said as he pulled back just far enough to gaze down at Abrose.
The question was right there on the tip of his tongue. He had been wanting to ask it for a while now, even before Abrose was now allowed to touch the scar. He had heard of Lucian getting hurt back when he and Chire had been shipped away to fight on the front lines. It had broken Abrose to not be able to see him, to not know whether the person he loved was alive or dead until weeks later. It had hurt even more when Lucian had come home and he had to pretend as if this was an everyday occurrence. As if his best friend hadn't narrowly escaped death. As he was some expendable guard and easily replaced by just anyone. He pressed into Lucian, returning each kiss more fervently to make up for every moment he had to act distant and uncaring, to dispel any inkling of doubt in Lucian's mind that Abrose hadn't cared when he very much did. As much as Abrose wanted to ask Lucian every single question running through his head about the scar and how he had gotten it, he knew now wasn't the best time. Not only because it would kill the mood almost immediately but more so because Abrose wanted time to listen and for Lucian to tell his story without any rush.
Abrose resisted the urge to bite down on Lucian's shoulder or to yank harder on his hair for fear of hurting him. He hadn't realized just how much he craved Lucian's touch, and just how much he never wanted this moment to stop. "And yet you call me a minx, my love." He teased, seeing the smirk on Lucian's face. If he could, Abrose probably would be purring in pleasure at Lucian's every touch. He relaxed ever so slightly as Lucian settled against him, a serene smile on his face as he shook his head. "no one is taking me away from you, Luce." he promised, lightly tugging Lucian in again to see if he would come closer. When he didn't, Abrose broke away from the kiss and gently nudged Lucian up. If he wasn't going to fully lay on Abrose, then Abrose would simply have to lay ontop of Lucian. "As are you, my Lucian." He murmured as he maneuvered them until Abrose was stradling Lucian hips and now hovering above him. "ah now I can see why you like the view. You are stunning."
Lucian could feel Abrose's restraint. He wanted to reassure him that it was alright, that Abrose could be as rough with him as he wanted to. Lucian could take it. He would embrace it. He wasn't some fragile man, he didn't need restraint, though he appreciated the gentleness. He hoped with time, he would be able to convince Abrose that it was alright to grip him harder, to pull his hair and rake his nails down his back. He would gladly accept any bites and kisses that he gave Lucian. He didn't want Abrose to feel like he had to hold himself back. "You are a minx, darling. You're always teasing me with that cute little ass of yours." To make his point, he slipped his grip down to grip said ass. "You have no idea what you do to me, love." It was a miracle Lucian hadn't gone insane working in the palace. Abrose was so tempting. He had almost blurted out his love for him many times, but it was his cowardly fear that kept him from telling the prince. the fear of rejection, and furthermore, the fear that they would never make it because of their statuses, kept him from saying a word. But now it was out and he would never go a day without telling Abrose about his love for him. Or remind him just exactly what Abrose did to him. He rolled his hips to show him just that.
Lucian let out a quiet laugh as he suddenly found his head resting on the pillows and the prince on top of him. He placed his hands on his hips, his thumbs stroking the skin. He shook his head in amusement. "It is you, my love, that is stunning." He reached up to twirl a lock of Abrose's hair. A bright red color. Their hair was so similar and yet so different. Both of them had red hair but Abrose had a brighter, more vibrant color. Lucian's was darker, almost copper. Lucian preferred Abrose's hair over his own. "Come here," he murmured as he started to guide the prince back down to his chest, his lips tingling to kiss him again.
"I tease you?" Abrose asked, unable to keep a laugh rising out of him. "Forgive me, my love if I distracted you from you're job." He dragged his hand through Lucian's hair, whining softly when Lucian gripped his butt. "I think I can get an idea." He managed out through a soft gasp. Abrose's legs tightened on instinct, a low groan escaping him as he gazed down at his beloved guard. "Look who's teasing now." He murmured, going back to trailing his fingers along Lucian's scar. "We shall forever go back and forth with this, hm?" He chuckled softly as he pressed into Lucian's hand, nipping and kissing at his wrist. "If I am your minx, then what are you? Perhaps a fox?" He mused, gladly giving in and settling against Lucian and finding his lips again to resume their kiss. "Giving me order again, Callister?" He teased, caging Lucian in with his arms on either side oh his head. Abrose begain at Lucian's chest, slowly kissing and nipping at tender skin until he got to Lucian's neck where he barely skimmed his lips over his skin. As much as Abrose wanted to do the same to Lucian and leave his own claiming marks for all the world to see, Abrose held back for now, knowing they'd have time to be as rough and playful with each other soon. He eventually made his way back to Lucian's lips, drawing out a slow and steady kiss as he slowly lowered himself completely ontop of Lucian, savoring the warmth between them as he melted into Lucian's hold.
Distract was not the word that Lucian would use. An intrusion, possibly. Abrose was all he could ever think about when he was stationed as his guard. And even when he wasn't, his eyes always scanned the room to search for the prince, his mood improving when he saw him and his mood souring when the prince was absent. Abrose was much more than a distraction. It was a miracle Lucian had been able to do his job as effectively as he had. But the one thing he valued over Abrose was safety. Especially the prince's safety. He would do anything to protect him. So even when his prince was teasing and trying to divert his attention, he was always attended to the world around him. No one would ever have the chance to hurt Abrose. Not while Lucian was there to protect him.
He leaned into the touch on his scar, his gaze softening as he looked up at him. His hands moved up to his sides, stroking the bare skin. His eyes did a slow once over, looking down his body then back up until he met his eyes. "I think we will, darling," he murmured, his eyes locked on the lips that had just nibbled at his wrist, fascinated. He was fascinated by his lips. He wanted them on his own at all times. He told him just as much as he tugged Abrose back down to him to resume their kiss. "Deny it. Deny that you like it." They both knew he couldn't. Abrose responded so well to him when he gave him orders, out on the training grounds and in here. His breath hitched in his throat as Abrose lowered to kiss not his lips but his chest. His eyes watched him intently, his hands threading through his hair. He let out a breathy moan at each nip and kiss. He wanted more. He would always want more when it came to his dear Abrose. Lucian wrapped his arms around his back, drawing him into his chest as Abrose finally reached his lips. He never wanted to let Abrose go.
It was safe to say that anywhere Lucian went, Abrose would be the happiest. Not in the way that Ambrose would die without him constantly around; he had learned how unhealthy that was for him when Lucian had left a few years back. To be honest, he was still learning how to not be so attached to his guard now that he was here, and even more so now that they had each other like this. But they would have time to enjoy life by each other's side and by themselves, or at least that's what he kept telling himself. They would have time to explore their relationship: what they wanted, what they didn't want, and how they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. They would figure it out just as soon as this looming war was over.
"Forever it is, then." Abrose grinned as he cupped Lucian's cheek and pressed feather-light kisses to his features until he returned to his lips and pressed a little harder. Forever with the person he loved the most sounded like heaven to Abrose, heaven he was less than deserving of. A good prince would put aside his selfishness and put forth his kingdom. Any temptation, no matter how strong would be shunned for being a distraction from his duties until a suitable partner would present themselves. Or at least that's what he had been taught his entire life. Even after his transition, he was still expected to uphold these values of putting his kingdom before himself. And of course Abrose loved his kingdom. His people. He wanted the best for them just as any ruler would but he couldn't put aside his desires for them. His dreams, his goals, his identity all for his kingdom? What shell of a ruler would he become then if he were to sacrifice himself for the betterment of his people? His parents would see his relationship with Lucian as a selfish decision for himself, Abrose couldn't help who he loved, not that he ever wanted to if he could.
"You know I can't deny you, my love." He murmured, shifting so that his legs were on either side of Lucian's waist. Anything Lucian requested of Abrose he would try and fulfill, so long as they were both comfortable. To Abrose it meant that he was wanted, that he was loved and valued by someone he had loved for so long already. He pressed into Lucian's hand again, a lazy grin crossing his features as he was drawn against Lucian's chest. He wasn't the only one who responded well to a bit of teasing. He indulged himself with Lucian's warmth, the pulse beneath his fingertips as his hands trailed up Lucian's neck and found their place back in his hair, their mingled breath even when breaking apart a kiss, every minute shift that brought them even closer, Abrose loved and cherished it all.
(uhh oopsies, i forgot to respond)
Lucian wanted to stay like this forever. He wanted to stay in here forever. To shut out the world and forget about it all. Forget about the war, forget about the proposal, forget about everything. In here, they could be together. In here, nothing could touch them. But he knew better than anyone that all good things must come to an end. And he wouldn't be able to stay here for much longer before someone would come looking for him. Looking for both of them, as Abrose surely had duties to attend to. But he could stay just a minute longer. Just a minute. He cupped the back of Abrose's his head, drawing him back down as they kissed once more. He didn't think he could ever tire of this feeling. Of the taste of Abrose's lips on his own. The feeling of his weight settled on top of him. It was all too tempting to take his hand and run away far into the woods were no one would find them where they could spend days lazing around in bed like this with no one to bother them. It was a beautiful fantasy that would never be possible for them.
Finally, slowly, he pulled away from Abrose. He gave him a soft, sad look. He tucked Abrose's hair back and cupped his cheek. "I have to go, my love," he murmured, bumping his nose against Abrose's. "They will come looking for us soon if we don't show our faces. And I need to get changed. I can't very well guard you like this, can I?" He didn't even have his sword with him, not even a knife. He wasn't utterly defenseless. He was skilled in hand to hand combat but a sword against a sword was much better odds than fists against a sword. Lucian sat up, keeping the prince in his arms. "I will see you later," he promised you. "If I'm not assigned to you, I will seek you out later tonight."
(no worries! Happy holidays!)
Whether it was the apartment, the woods, or another kingdom completely, Abrose would follow Lucian with no hesitation. He had sworn as much to the spirits the first time they had been separated by war. Abrose had been happy for a while when Lucian had been appointed his personal guard, taking it as a sign from the spirits that Lucian would remain by his side from now on. But then his little crush never dissipated as he had assumed would happen over time. It only grew more into surpressed longing and desire the more time they spent with each other, always keenly aware they would only be guard and prince and nothing more. Until now. Until neither of them could keep up the act no longer and now they were this. A tangle of limbs amongst sheets and pillows in his bed, stealing secret kisses they knew could get them both in trouble but risking it anyways for their own selfish sake.
Abrose lingered with the kiss just a bit longer, determined to stay blissfully unaware for just a few more moments despite deep down knowing their time together like this would always be too short for his liking while still at the castle. He sighed softly as he pressed into Lucian's hand, huffing in protest but allowing Lucian to sit up, knowing he was right.
"You look perfectly fine without clothes on and you can guard me perfectly fine from here" Abrose argued from where he was nestled in Lucian's arms. In reality, no, Lucian wouldn't be able to guard anyone from Abrose's bed, at least not in a true emergency but Abrose wasn't about to lose a rare chance to be with Lucian like this just to go back to being appropriately close but not too close.
His mood was ever so slightly lifted when Lucian promised to come back but he kept that excitement at bay. Abrose straightened and returned the gentle nudge. "As much as I want you every waking and sleeping moment, I can be patient, my love. Get some rest tonight, take time to relax before things start getting serious with the war. We'll have time to ourselves soon." As much as Abrose wished he could be reckless and sneak away with Lucian, responsibly tugged at every chance, ones he as prince could not ignore not matter how much he wanted. "Of course you'll see me. I expect you by my side as my assigned guard." He teased, pressing a final kiss to Lucian's lips before reluctantly pulling away from Lucian's hold to find a new shirt that was less wrinkled to technically begin his day.
(I swear, the holidays are draining my braincells more than being in school did)
Lucian chuckled quietly and dropped a kiss on the top of Abrose's head. As wonderful as it sounded to stay in bed with the prince without his clothing, he had his duties to attend to. He couldn't very well be on his guard when he was constantly distracted by wandering hands and kisses. He would be a very poor guard and the distraction might very well get them both killed. While the probability for an attack on the palace was low, it was never impossible. Abrose was royalty and their kingdom was currently at war. It wasn't impossible for there to be an attack on the palace. The chances of it were increasing because they were at war. And the kingdom's sovereign they were currently at war with was residing in the palace. Not everyone respected a ceasefire. And there might be those within their own country that wished to see this war continue, and thus sabotage attempts at peace. There were too many possibilities and too many ways that Abrose could die. His safety came first above all else.
Cupping his cheek, Lucian smiled down softly at him. "One day, we will have all the time in the world. And we can sleep in and hold each other and eat nothing but sweets for breakfast." The thought of it had him inwardly cringing. He was so used to waking up before dawn and training until he could hardly stand. The thought of sleeping in was almost foreign to him. And eating sweets? When was the last time he had indulged himself, he did not know. Well, he did. It was now. He was indulging himself with the prince in his arms, the love of his life ever since they had been children.
He captured Abrose's lips and kissed him slowly, deeply, prolonging it longer than he should have. He was reluctant to let Abrose go, despite knowing that he had to leave. "I will see you soon," he murmured, "I love you." He untangled himself from Abrose's limbs and swung his legs over the side of the bed. He gave Abrose one last heated look before ducking out of his room and heading down the hall discretely. He made it back to the barracks were he changed out of his training clothes and into his armor. The once metal armor used to be heavy on his limbs and strain his body and bruise his skin. Not it felt like a second skin to him, pulling it on with ease and almost feeling comfortable with it on versus without it.
(honestly sameπ
but I hope the new year goes well for ya! Happy new years!)
Abrose glanced up as he ran a hand through his disheveled hair. "Oh really? My Lucian sleeping in and eating sweets in the morning? what happened to waking up ungodly early and eating nothing but protein? Not that I'm complaining at all." He teased, striding over to Lucian as he got dressed in his training uniform. He slipped his hands beneath his shirt and hugged him around his midsection, pressing his lips to shoulder.
"I can't wait to spent days on end with you my love, waking up with sleepy morning kisses and discovering what chocolate tastes like from your lips." He murmured, kissing Lucian neck before letting him go.
He let out a laugh as he watched Lucian go. "As soon as you possibly can, please come back. I love you too, my Lucian." He let himself indulge in the warmth of the morning before he shook himself from the hazey dream and finished getting ready.
He glanced up as his door was opened and Chire came in. "Did I not tell you I wanted a report the moment you got back?" He questioned with a knowing grin, gently nudging Abrose into a chair to adjust the circlet on his head. A morning with his parents he guessed.
"Forgive me your highness, I was preoccupied." He grinned as Chire gasoed and slapped his shoulder playfully. "Tell me, now! What happened?" He begged, waving away his own two guards so the crown prince and his brother could talk in complete privacy.
(I have risen from the dead. Maybe.)
Lucian snorted softly. "I do know how to have fun, you know. I am capable of sleeping in and eating sweets." He just didn't do it often. Come to think of it, he couldn't think of the last time he had indulged in an array of sweets or slept in his bed past dawn. It wasn't something he craved to have. Well, not until he got Abrose in his arms and his lips on his own. Now he was willing to indulge in all sorts of things just to be with Abrose. He held onto said prince, kissing the top of his head. He didn't want to let go of him. Oh to be able to stay in this room all day. But he had things to do and princes to protect. The very prince he was currently holding on to.
"I will always come back to you, my dear Abrose. As quickly as I am to." Lucian winked at him before turning on his heels and leaving the prince's rooms. He was careful to make sure there was no one was in the hall before striding through them. He made his way back outside and back to the barracks to change into his guard uniform and get ready for the day. He got some breakfast with his fellow guards, joking and talking with them as if he hadn't just been in the prince's rooms kissing the hell out of him.
