"I have a lot of questions and a lot of memories I want to know about, but that can all be done later," Connor began, his voice filled with uncertainty and hope. "Besides, I want to cherish the memories we're already making rather than dwell on the old ones. If all goes well, hopefully, I'll have my memories back, so I won't even need to ask about them." As he spoke, Connor leaned back just enough to rest against Jas's shoulder, seeking solace in his presence. "But," he continued, his tone softening with vulnerability, "I have this weird feeling in my gut. What if I get my memories back and start hating you again? What if the bad outweighs the good? I know that's close to impossible in my heart, but I have no idea what that means to my brain. I know I'll still have these memories. I'm just scared…that's all." Connor squeezed Jas's hand tightly, drawing comfort from the warmth and reassurance it provided in the face of his fears. "Just promise me whatever happens, you'll smack me back to reality, not literally, but you know what I mean. As it stands, I never want to leave you, so please never forget that." Connor used his other arm to gently cup Jas's cheek, his touch filled with affection and longing. Moving closer, he sought to bridge the physical gap between them, yearning to be even closer to the one person who made him feel human.
Jas shifted slightly, the plane seats making it hard for anyone to get comfortable but they managed with what space they had. He rested his head against Connor's and lightly stroked the back of his hand with his thumb. "That could happen." He agreed softly. "We've had more lifetimes at each other's throats than actually being together. And we don't know how you'll react to having your memories back all at once. But no matter what, I'll stay by your side." He gently nudged Connor's head in reassurance, even as he felt the same fear, of losing Connor again. He couldn't help but laugh as he shook his head "I will always be there whenever you need me, my heart. You can't get rid of me so easily, try as you might each life." He promised with a teasing smirk before pressing his brow to Connor's. "We'll get settled at home, make sure Jake is taken care of at the farthest possible institute, get some much needed rest, and then call Finn first thing in the morning." He planned, lips brushing against the bridge of Connor's nose as he spoke. He tilted his head into Connor's palm, pressing a kiss to his fingertips before he brushed a kiss against his lips, tentative and slow, still getting used to being allowed to kiss Connor after being apart for so long. "So I guess you don't want to hear about the time you almost drowned me in a lake."
He nodded quietly, glancing between the seats to find Charlotte and Asher leaning against each other, peacefully asleep, reminiscent of their childhood. "Yeah…" he whispered with a soft smile, reciprocating the kiss, cherishing the connection between their lips. His expression turned to a frown as Jas halted, silently expressing his disagreement. "I did what?!" His voice rose in alarm, sitting up abruptly to face Jas with concern, only to realize they were on a plane, feeling embarrassed as he leaned back down. "What did I do?" he whispered to himself, gently brushing Jas's forehead. "I'm sorry for trying to drown you," he apologized softly, acknowledging the need to rest during the flight. Closing his eyes, he settled back into his seat, chuckling at the thought of their past antics. "I'm excited to uncover more about you," he admitted, his cheeks tinted with a gentle pink, reflecting on their shared experiences. "Now, I'm just rambling… good night, Jas. Please wake me before we land so I can help Charlotte and Asher. You know how they get after a long sleep."
Jas couldn't help but laugh aloud, his ears flattening against his head as he took a moment to compose himself from his fit, "Forgive my love but that reaction was precious." He gently cupped Connor's cheeks and pressed a reassuring kiss to his brow. "You didn't do anything sweet love." he promised, finding a small blanket he had packed in his carry-on that was meant for the kids in case they got cold but he figured they wouldn't mind too much if they used it for a while. He tossed it over Connor's shoulders before settling in for the rest of the flight. "We were going to visit your hometown in Florida before your mission." He began to explain, not minding if Connor fell asleep, he would gladly tell the story over and over again. "You drove us to a lake by your home and we decided to take a dip since it was unbrearably hot. I wasn't too fond of water because of my past lives, being a cat and all but I didn't mind wading through. That is until a certain someone forgot he had super strength and drenched me in a wave of water." He chuckled lightly and shook his head adoringly. "But it was all worth it, seeing you so happy. And I may or may not have gotten my payback later on, making you all flustered as always." he smiled softly "All in due time, sweetheart. I promise. Get some rest for now." He murmured, kissing Connor's hair. "I won't. You need rest. Don't worry your beautiful self about anything for a while."
He smiled to himself, basking in the warmth of Jas's voice as he recounted the tale of his near-drowning experience. With his eyes closed, Connor could vividly picture the serene lake Jas described as if he were there himself. It was a strange sensation, as though the memory belonged to him rather than being narrated to him. This realization sparked a cascade of thoughts about their shared experiences, prompting Connor to ponder whether, deep down, he had always craved these adventures with Jas, regardless of their tumultuous relationship. He no longer wished to carry the world's weight on his shoulders or engage in endless battles with Jas. As sleep enveloped him, he embraced a newfound sense of peace, grateful for the opportunity to leave behind the burdens of his past and embrace the serenity of the present moment. As Jas's soothing words enveloped him, Connor drifted into a peaceful slumber, lulled by the steady rhythm of his heartbeat and the comforting embrace of the blanket. Amidst the tranquility of sleep, memories from his past flickered through his mind, reminding him of his different paths, from humble beginnings to lofty heights. Yet, in every iteration of his life, his ultimate aspiration remained unchanged: to be the hero, with Jas as his villain.
Jas smiled softly at Connor as his breathing evened out. He pressed a gentle kiss to his head and preocupied himself with a book or a movie when the book got boring. He'd check on the kids, ently waking them up at one point and passing them snacks or toys when they started getting restless. He didn't blame them though, the flights back and forth from Italy to the States always seemed so long. At one point he switched seats with Connor, gently moving him over so that he could help keep the kids entertained while eh slept, and to relieve some of the neck pain sleeping in the same position might have caused. They were well into their third game of cards when the announcement came on that they would be descending soon. Right on time too because Jas was starting to get desperate on what to trade with the kids. He had already lost a 5 dollar bet and a homemade tiramisu cake to the pair and still hadn't won. He helped the kids pack away the game and gently nudged Connor's shoulder. "My love, wake up. We're almost there." He gently coerced, brushing back Connor's hair and pressing a kiss to his temple. "I doubt you'll want to miss your first view of Italy."
Connor groaned softly as he shifted his head to properly face Jas, his eyes squinting against the newfound morning light streaming through the windows. With a gentle rub of his eyes, he finally opened them and took in the breathtaking scene outside. The buildings seemed to meld seamlessly with the mountainous landscape, each structure a testament to the harmonious relationship between human architecture and the natural world surrounding them. "This is where you lived, Jas. It's… it's beautiful," he murmured, his voice filled with genuine awe and appreciation. "Italy is just… stunning." Leaning back against Jas, Connor continued to gaze out the window, captivated by the picturesque view unfolding before him. "I can't believe you never brought me here before," he remarked with a hint of playful reproach. "Well, I can, but it's still…" His words trailed off as he became lost in the splendor of their surroundings, momentarily forgetting the bustle of the airplane cabin around them. Connor roused himself from his reverie as the flight attendant made her rounds, reminding passengers to prepare for landing. He took charge, ensuring everyone in their group was ready for the descent. Rising from his seat, he addressed Charlotte and Asher with authority and amusement. "You heard the lady—buckle up and behave yourselves," he said firmly, though his lips curved into a playful grin. "No fooling around, got it?" With the plane finally touching down, Connor breathed a sigh of relief along with the rest of the passengers, eager to stretch his legs after the long flight. "Oh, I need to stretch my wings." he winced, turning back to Jas with a lighthearted chuckle; he gathered their belongings, ready to disembark. "Alright, let's start getting our stuff together," he announced, glancing at Charlotte and Asher with a knowing smile. "Any last-minute bathroom breaks before we hit the ground running?" As Charlotte and Asher sheepishly raised their hands, Connor couldn't help but laugh. "Looks like we're all in the same boat. Let's make it quick, shall we?" As they began to make their way off the plane, Connor turned to Jas with a playful glint in his eye. "Lead the way, oh seasoned traveler," he teased. Then, with a grin, he added, "Wait, since you lived here, do you happen to speak Italian too?"
He nodded, following Connor's gaze to watch as the country he had grown up in passed then by in a slow circle. "Not exactly here." He lifted Connor's chin up ever so slightly and pointed to where a small valley could be seen beyond the city buildings. "Right over there. Just cresting the hills. THats where I grew up most lives as a child. Oddly enough that hasn't changed over the course of our lives. But I usually end up moving to the states in highschool." He explained, laughing lightly to hide the pang of sadness. "I was going to last life. After…" He trailed off, shaking his head slightly and gave a tight smile. "Whats important is that you get to see it now." He looked up as fleight attendants announced that passengers could gather their belongings. He put the blankets back into his carryone and helped Connor with the rest of the suitcases. Jas closed his eyes as the plane touched down, probably hating the touch down more than the ascent, both were uncomfortable but he got through them both each fleight. He helped the kids and Connor as they left the plane and made it to the airport, gladly taking the time to stretch out his limbs. He laughed when the kids raised their hands, guiding their small group over to the where the bathrooms were while he figured out what gate would have the rest of their luggage. "Not as well as I should." He admitted. "Its easy to sing it, even as just a backup on drums but conversation was always harder, especially after having only lived here as a kid. Some words stick though, mostly the food related ones and formalities. I've picked up a bit more since moving back but english hasn't failed me as of yet."
He frowned when Jas stopped in the middle of his sentence. After what? he shook his head and decided it was better to be left alone. If it were about them, then he would know soon enough. "Oh, is that so? I find that singing in another language is easier as well. It's less knowing what it means and more learning the word's pronunciation."He mulled over the idea of navigating an unfamiliar place, feeling a twinge of uncertainty gnawing at him. It wasn't just about language barriers but about adapting to an entirely different way of life. Yet, for Jas and the kids, he was willing to push past his apprehensions and give it his all. As they disembarked from the plane and made their way through the airport, Connor's gaze scanned the bustling terminal, his mind already focused on the next task at hand. Spotting the restroom signs, he turned to Jas with a question. "Jas, do you need to use the bathroom, or do you think you can watch the bags for a bit?"
"WHen did you learn to sing, my dear?" Jas asked curiously. "Exactly, though I try to translate the words when its for the band. Some of the songs are genuinely beautiful, even more so in Italian." He shrugged sheepishly, unable to stop himself from gushing about his newfound passion for music. every life had always meant being the villain. When he wasn't fighting Connor, Jas picked up odd jobs here and there to make rent and necessities. He was a nobody outside of being a problem. But now that he had movied and rediscovered a long ago repressed passion of his, Jas ha genuinely never felt more himself. Even if the band wasn't famous yet, they were big enough to book gigs and make a decent earning on their shows enough for the members to live relatively comfortably. Even if they were poor Jas wouldn't give up making music. He supposed if one good thing were to come out of this life, it would be that. He only regretted not having Connor there sooner to share his passions with. He glanced up and shook his head. "You all go first, I'll watch the bag then we'll switch."
"Well, I never learned to sing. It's kind of something I've always been able to do. Honestly, it's as natural as breathing," he chuckled, feeling the tug of his children pulling him towards the bathroom. With a wave, he guided them there, their pace hurried but eager. Inside, they didn't linger long, fortunate to find short lines. When Connor emerged, a sense of relief washed over them all, and their tension eased as if they had just showered away their worries. "I so needed that. Your turn, Jas. I can take the bags," Connor offered, handing over their belongings to Charlotte and Asher, ready to move as soon as Jas exited the bathroom. The impending jet lag loomed, and he wanted to ensure they were settled somewhere comfortable before it took its toll. Leaning in, he planted a kiss on Jas's cheek. "Maybe we could sing together sometime since you were in a band and everything. I wanted to tell you before, but you know who was in the room, and I didn't want to upset him. But now I don't have to worry about that because I have you," he said with a bright smile, a sense of excitement bubbling between them.
Jas switched with Connor, leaving him with the carry-on bags while he used the bathroom. Now freshened up and ready to go back home, Jas soon returned to the group, taking one of the bags and guiding the group to the baggage claim. He gently nudged Connor's shoulder in reassurance, already seeing the tiredness settle in, especially in the two kids. "Just a little longer, heart. You all can rest once we get home." He promised, smiling softly at the kiss. "I would love that Connor. I can introduce you to the band too. I'm sure they'd be more than happy to meet you." He offered, blush blooming on his cheeks at the idea of them doing anything together. He had forgotten, or at least tried in his years in Italy what it felt like working together with Connor. What it felt like building a life with the one he loved the most because that was all last life. Connor had moved on and so had Jas. There was no them until those memories were retrieved and even then, Jas wouldn't have destroyed a family all for his won selfish desires. He composed himself and finally found the baggage claim and efficiently grabbed the rest of the suitcases.
"Alright, I promise you we're almost there." It had taken half an hour to find where Jas had parked the car and loaded everything in and by then the two kids had fallen asleep yet again, the excitement of a new country not enough to keep them entertained for long. Another hour in and Jas was half ready himself to fall asleep at the wheel, having tried everything he could, putting on music, rolling the windows down, and occupying himself by acting as tour guide to Connor, to keep him from nodding off. Thankfully his home wasn't too far off from the main city as soon enough they were turning into his driveway. The home itself wasn't grand but it suited what Jas had envisioned for lives now perfectly. The house was simple, ivory white with creme and dark wood accents, large windows allowed for a view of the inside, shielded by thin curtains. The warm glow of lights could be seen at night though now the sunlight was enough to keep the place illuminated. It would have been close to the place Jas took Connor on their honeymoon had everything gone right that faithful night. Jas hopped out of his car and juggled a sleeping Asher as well as his cats and a backback back inside. "Don't worry about the bag, love. Take the guest bedroom with the kids and get some rest. I'll make dinner and wake you up when it's ready." He offered, climbing the stairs and opening the doors to his home.
Connor smiled warmly and nodded appreciatively. “Thank you for the offer, but I won’t be able to sleep without you by my side. So if you’re staying up to cook, then count me in. I’ll go tuck the kids into bed; they seem a bit tired after adjusting to the new place.” He glanced over at Charlotte and Asher, who were gradually winding down from their earlier excitement.
“I’ll be right back.” Connor leaned in and placed a tender kiss on Jas’s cheek before making his way to the children’s room. Once there, he gently tucked them into bed, planting soft kisses on their foreheads. “You two have been pretty quiet since we got here. How are you feeling about the new place?”
“How long are we staying here? I like it. It’s so quiet, no noisy cars,” Asher murmured, rubbing his sleepy eyes.
“Yeah, will we go to school here too?” Charlotte added, her voice filled with curiosity.
Connor smiled affectionately. “Well, that depends on how long we’ll be here, but since you both seem to like it, I’ll talk to Jas about it. For now, let’s get some rest. Tomorrow is a new day, be ready for anything. Goodnight, my little troublemakers.” With a final pat on their heads, Connor stood up and dimmed the lights, leaving the door slightly ajar for comfort. Returning to the kitchen, Connor approached Jas with a soft smile. “Hey,” he said gently, wrapping his arms around Jas’s waist and resting his head on his back. “This is nice. Charlotte and Asher are enjoying it here because it’s peaceful. They even asked if they could attend school here. What do you think I should tell them? Personally, I’m loving the tranquility of this place. It’s just us, and I find that incredibly soothing.”
Jas nodded slightly, a small smile on his lips as he leaned into the affection before he headed back outside to grab the rest of their bags. He organized and called his dad and Suni, letting them know that they were all safe back in Italy and updating them a bit about Connor's situation since the divorce before he excused himself to rest, promising more details in the next few weeks. Once everything was in place and Jas had let his cats free, he began on a simple dinner. Ever since living alone this life, first inspired by impressing Connor for when the time came to reunite but soon becoming a necessity of living alone, Jas had learned how to cook. It wasn't anything fancy but even the simplest of dishes were helped with such easy access to fresh ingredients.
Too tired and jet lagged to put much energy into something intricate, Jas settled on a favorite pasta dish made with a simple cream sauce and some grilled chicken to at least get some protein in. The moment he started cooking the chicken, who else was to reappear but Ash and Winnie. Jas gave a warning glare to the both of them before continuing with dinner, occasionally sneaking them a bit of chicken as their pre-dinner treat. "Mischievous creatures," he muttered as they eventually trotted off to the sun room for a quick nap. If only he could follow. In the summer, the sunroom branching off from the living room was the closest thing to heaven on earth. Plants he could never get to stay alive in the city thrived here, growing lush and green. Jas had taken the opportunity to put his cats' cat-tree and beds there, since they'd appreciate the sun, and had even set up a little lounge area for himself. While it wasn't the fireplace he had dreamed of for lives now, he thought this would do just as well if not better. the domed glass ceiling let in plenty of light and had a great view of the stars at night. With a few string lights here and there and a book to keep him company, Jas had built himself a bit of paradise in his home. But as much as he loved living out his life here in Italy, it had never felt complete, not without the person he loved. Until now he supposed, but things were still not quite right.
He hummed softly, glancing over his shoulder as Connor hugged him. "Hello, Heart." He greeted, gently taking Connor's hand and pressing a kiss to the back of it. "Really? I wasn't aware they were conscious enough to be aware of the scenery." He teased, finding a fork and offering a taste of the pasta and chicken. "This area does have a few good English schools, mostly for the exchange or abroad students but I'm sure we could find one they liked. But I would take it slow for, my love. You did just get here a few hours ago." He advised softly, careful not to burn Connor as Jas carefully moved around the kitchen to add the chicken to the sauced pasta. He added a bit of zested lemon and the juice as well as some shaved parmesan before mixing once more, tasting it himself, and finding a few bowls to serve in. "Dinner is served, dear." He turned in Connor's arms and offered a bowl to him.
(Quick question is Jas taller or shorter in this life, I went back to our template but neither of us specified height ToT)
(I think in this life, Connor was taller. Last life Jas was the taller one, now it switched)
(Thanksssssss that helps)
He took a bite of the chicken and nodded, "I know, I know. They're just kids. They don't know what they want yet. It's good; I like it," He then looked down at the bowl in front of him. "Thank you, my love," he took the bowl but kept his arm wrapped around Jas's waist, wanting to hold him closer; at that moment, he got a good look at Jas. He still had old memories of them, and to him, he never changed. Maybe he liked him so much because he could pick him out in a sea full of people and be thankful he saw a familiar face—a beautiful one at that. "You're stunning, even when you have something as simple as this. You still look lovely." He never really talked like this unless he was being serious. Feeling a surge of emotion, he leaned in, his lips seeking Jas's with a hunger born of love and gratitude. Their kiss was tender yet passionate, a silent exchange of affection and understanding. He savored the warmth of Jas's lips against his own, each moment deepening their connection. As they parted, he whispered against Jas's lips, "Thanks for the dinner." He kissed his cheek one last time before reluctantly pulling away; he brushed his thumb against Jas's cheek. With a soft smile, he stepped back and preceded towards the dinner table
(No problem! The height difference is fun)
Jas' heart swelled at the reciprocated pet name but he forced the excitement down, at least a bit. Everything was still new to Connor, adjusting to the divorce, and suddenly moving to another continent that he wasn't familiar with, all while not having most of his memories of his past lives. Jas didn't want to add to the strain Connor already had in his life by acting as if they had just picked up from their last life. But at the same time, Jas wanted to be there for Connor, wanted to be the one to love him and to be able to love him the way he deserved for so long. He breathed a soft laugh, "you used to make fun of my crappy cooking skills. You even taught me how to make ramen at one point to this day, I still can't get it quite as good." he murmured nostalgically, breaking out into a grin and tilting his head boyishly at Connor's compliment, "Simple?" He gasped in feigned offense. "I hope you know I dress my absolute best whenever around you. I'm offended you don't notice, Heart." He chided, his teasing smirk falling slightly as he met Connor's kiss, tender and slow. Jas carefully set the bowls on the counter to gather Connor to him, seeking his closeness and warmth. Here was where he could guarantee Connor's would be happy, that they stayed warm and loved and safe. He had made the mistake of letting Connor go a lifetime ago, it wouldn't happen again. He loosened his hold slightly as they broke away, a smile tugging at his lips. "You're welcome, my love. I promise you one of these days I'll learn how to make something a bit fancier but for now we really can't go wrong with homemade pasta." He winked and pressed into Connor's hand with a little appreciative pur before grabbing his bowl to join Connor at the dining table. "I hope the kids like it." He mused, starting to dig in. "Poor things looked exhausted after the flight."
(I love height differences I think they're the cutest thing in the world o/////o )
"Hey, I said I liked it. I never said I loved it. But you're getting better, so who am I to diminish your hard work?" he remarked with a playful grin, taking another forkful of pasta and savoring the taste. The satisfaction of finally having food in his stomach was palpable, and he hummed contentedly as he ate. "Ah, yes, I'm sure they'll come out once they get hungry." he mused, reflecting on his childhood habits. "I used to be just like that. Always holed up in my room, only coming out for food." His voice had a hint of nostalgia, tinged with the weight of past experiences. "After so many lives, you grow numb to affection from parents and people you'll never truly know." But then, his gaze softened as he looked at Jas, a glimmer of hope shining in his eyes. "Who knows, maybe this cycle will end once I grow old with you and see my children grow up to be amazing people," he said, his voice tinged with optimism. Despite their hardships, there was a flicker of possibility in his words, a belief in the potential for a brighter future together. Realizing the heaviness of his words, he sighed and shook his head, a broad smile gracing his features. "I'm ruining the mood, huh? Enough sad talk," he declared, eager to shift the conversation to something more lighthearted. "What are we doing tomorrow? Will we see your friend so they can store my memories, or will it be a bit till that happens? Either way, I'm fine with it," he continued, his words tumbling out in a rush as he sought to dispel the somber atmosphere with a touch of optimism and anticipation.
Jas rolled his playfully "there's always room for improvement." He gave a soft smile. While he didn't really like thinking about, Jas did wonder sometimes when they would finally be mkrtal. Eternalifr was exhausting, especially when things always seemed to go wrong one way or another. Living out one final life where he got to be with Connor and watch the kids grow up seemed like a nice way to spent the end of eternity. He shook his head "you're not, heart. It's a nice thing to think about." He reassured, resting his head in his hand. "We have a week or so until we see Finn. He had plans beforehand and asked if we could push the meeting back a bit." He explained, "but we can explore around in the meantime. There's a few places I do want to show you and the kids if you're up for an adventure tomorrow. You can also meet our little band if you're up for a bit of socializing." He offered, an uncontrollable warm smile spreading on Jas's face. This felt so familiar, so right for him. This was all has had ever wanted in his lifetimes. All the obnoxious pining, and plans to get Connor to fall for him all would have lead up to this. Them together, kids, a happy life in a beautiful city. It's all Jas had dreamed of.
He grinned, his eyes sparkling with warmth as he leaned across the table, reaching for Jas's hand. Gently intertwining their fingers, he held her gaze, their hands suspended in a moment of connection before he reluctantly released her hand to tend to his meal. "You know," he murmured, his voice soft and reflective, "I've never experienced love like this before." His words carried a weight of vulnerability as he delved into his inner thoughts. "I used to avoid it like the plague," he confessed, his gaze drifting momentarily, "because I knew I would loose them eventually. But this feels different," he admitted, "Now that I have my kids I see the value in life and now that I have you, I see the value in living." With a tender gesture, he brought Jas's hand to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss to the back of it before releasing it reluctantly. Finishing his meal, he rose from the table, moving to the sink with a sigh. "Looks like it's my turn for dishes," he said, his tone playful yet tinged with reluctance. "But I'll do it, because I love you." As he began to wash the dishes, he glanced back at Jas, "Do we have containers for the leftovers?" he asked, his voice filled with care for their family.
Jas grinned, "you're right. You do avoid it like the plague. Do you know the lengths I had to go through to actually have a chance with you?" He asked, not accusingly but more lighthearted. As much as it hurt to know Connor couldn't remember the life they were living, Jas did want Connor to know they had a chance together. That they had put aside their bickering and fighting for a life and gave each other a chance, if only for a year or so before Connor died on the mission. Jas toyed with the fork for a moment, a nostalgic smile crossing his face as he recounted their past life. "I actually let you arrest me with those god-forsaken power-nulling cuff things your organization had. I was just doing my regular villainry when who showed up but my favorite little hero. I don't remember what was so different about that night, we were still fighting, and I was still trying to flirt with you, but for whatever reason, I let you arrest me without a fight. I guess I thought it would make you happy, even if we both knew the arrest would be temporary. But I stayed for the sentencing. You came to visit me every night, to gloat or to make sure I actually stayed. But we got to talking. You would tell me about your day, how it was never the same without me, and how annoyed at Jake you were. Different Jake. This one actually cared about you without the controlling bits, though he was annoying at first. In the end, he became one of your most trusted allies and friends." Jas took a moment to eat, finishing off his own bowl and leaning back with a satisfied sigh. "Things got a bit more serious when you actually slept with me in my cell for the first time. Nothing beyond actually sleeping but by then I think we were starting to explore what our feelings toward each other actually we. I eventually was let go with Suni's help and we started dating. I always had the fear you only started dating me because you felt as if you had to. That there was no other choice but to date the guy who's been pining after you all these lives but regardless we stayed together for that life even when I told you you could go anytime you wanted without me putting up a fight." Jas laughed softly before standing to help Connor with the dishes. "That offer still stands this life by the way. You don't have to stay with me if you don't want to. I won't look for you or beg you to love me anymore. Not if it's something you don't want, now or even later on." Jas promised softly, rummaging through the cabinets until he found a few containers to put the extra past and chicken in for the kids to eat later on. "But as long as you let me love you, I will always be there for you. I will always love you, Connor. At this point, I don't know how to do anything other than love you." He murmured, mirroring Connor earlier and wrapping him in a hug from behind, lightly pressing a kiss to his hair before resting his head against the small of his back. "I don't exactly love how much taller you are though. Do you know how adorably red and flustered you would get whenever I cornered you, or pinned you to the wall or set you on the counter? The answer is very, and I loved it."
He chuckled softly, the sound carrying a mixture of amusement and nostalgia as he listened to Jas reminisce. Memories flickered at the edge of his consciousness, elusive and fleeting, like fragments of a dream slipping through his fingers. Try as he might, he couldn't grasp them, and a sense of longing tugged at his heartstrings. With each word Jas spoke, a pang of melancholy washed over him, a reminder of the person he used to be, a person he struggled to recall with clarity. It was strange to hear Jas recount those memories, almost as if he was talking about someone entirely, someone who existed in a distant past. Did Jas long for that version of him, the one who seemed so distant and unreachable now? As the conversation turned to the future, a hint of tension crept into the air, overshadowing the lightheartedness of the moment. The mention of an offer struck a nerve. He turned to Jas, his hands gently cupping his cheeks, a silent plea in his eyes. "Hey, don't say something like that," he interjected, his voice betraying a hint of vulnerability as he spoke. "That offer is not on the table and will never be on the table from now on," he declared firmly, determination lacing his words. He felt a lump form in his throat, the weight of unspoken fears threatening to overwhelm him. "I will always love you too. You have nothing to worry about. I'm happy with you right here, just the way you are," he affirmed his words, a steadfast promise of unwavering devotion. A warm smile graced his lips as he pressed a tender kiss against Jas's, the touch imbued with reassurance and affection. Gently, he guided Jas closer, his hands sliding down to rest at his waist, pulling him in as he deepened the kiss, a silent affirmation of their bond. "Well," he murmured, breaking away from the kiss with a playful glint in his eyes, "Who said you can't pin me down? Who says I wouldn't like it?" he teased, a mischievous grin quirking up the corners of his lips. "However…pinning you down also sounds like a lot of fun. He resumes the kiss with Jas; moving with purposeful determination, he steps forward, gently guiding Jas backward until his back meets the calm surface of a nearby wall. Locked in a passionate embrace, he relished the exhilarating sensation of being so close to Jas; their bodies pressed together in an intimate dance of desire and longing.
Jas would be lying if he said he didn't miss Connor before his memories were wiped. To have a taste of what a happy life with each other felt like, only to have that ripped away was devasting to Jas, to the point where he had wondered if it was worth living this life knowing Connor had gone back to hating him. But he had more than just Connor to consider this time, Suni and Sasha, his parents, and the friends he had made. He had justified losing a lifetime with them wasn't worth pressing restart all for Connor to hate him again. He'd go on and live the best life he could as much as possible until he could get over Connor, that or live with heartache forever. But thankfully, he didn't have to do that anymore. And while Jas would always mourn the loss of the life they had first fallen in love, he was genuinely glad to get a second chance at loving Connor, even if it came with a few bumps in the road. He glanced up as Connor held his face in his hands, admiring Connor's determination. "My heart," he murmured, pressing a reassuring kiss to Connor's palm. "If I can have a lifetime with Winston, why shouldn't you have a chance at happiness with someone? That doesn't mean I'll stop loving you. But it does give you a chance to be happy with someone else other than this old kitty." He tried to reason gently, leaning into Connor's embrace and meeting his tender kiss, moving his hands so they twined into his hair and trailed his spine. He hummed softly, slowly relaxing to Connor's hold, still trying to adjust to his newfound confidence. "That is true, love. Careful, you might give me ideas." He purred, pressing his lips to Connor's ear, remembering how sensitive they had been last life and wondering if his touch still elicited the same response. He obediently moved back as Connor guided him to the opposite wall, never once breaking contact. He wrapped an arm around Connor's wait, drawing him flush against his form, even as they were so close already, the hold was more than just lust-based. Jas wanted to hold Connor close like before, here in his arms where he knew Connor was safe and loved every second. Connor's mind may not remember how it felt to be loved by Jas but his heart and body did, at least Jas was to remind him that it did. He briefly debated lifting Connor's shirt, longing to feel his warm familiar skin, to touch the scar he had only found about last life and trail it delicately as if his touch could heal the pain behind it. But he didn't. Not after what Connor had been through with Jake. Jas was more than willing to hand over control to Connor, to let him decide when and where he wanted to be touched and kissed for his comfort. "No matter what," he murmured against the kiss, "I'm your kitty. You have my heart, love. Always have, always will."
Connors's heart was about to leap out of his chest. He was never this bold. Well, he was never this bold with Jas on a personal level. This whole relationship was still new to him, but the thought of them doing something similar in the past made him feel he could act on what he was thinking a little more. "I already had my chance, so look how well that turned out. Besides, I have you now, so there is no need for other people in my life. It makes me happy just hearing you say that you'll be mine. If you're ever in doubt." He pressed a light kiss to Jas's lips before moving down to his neck. "Just know…" he moved Jas's hands down to his chest so he could feel Connor's heartbeat. "My heart belongs to you too." He chuckled with a wide grin on his face. "Cutie. Should I use kitty as a nickname? You seem to call yourself that sometimes, and I use it occasionally, but only when you're in your cat form." He leaned up, straightening his back. "Oh, and what I said earlier still counts. I wouldn't mind being under you from time to time." he teased.
"What does that mean?" Asher said excitedly,
Connor tensed up and turned slowly to find Asher walking out of the room, rubbing his eyes and holding his stuffed animal. "Ah- nothing, nothing, you'll learn when you're older. It's a secret between adults.
"No fair! I wanna be under someone, too!" He huffed and hit Connor's leg.
"Okay, no you don't. Well, maybe you do, but not right now! Let's find you something to eat, Asher, and get you back to bed."He laughed nervously while picking Asher up off the ground and holding him in his arms. "Sorry, we just put everything away, but do you mind maybe putting out a plate for Asher too?"
