Nick scoffed once Mel left the room. "Of course, I don't mind the company, Mel. Why even ask…Wait, what did he mean? He likes to see me blush. I wasn't even blushing; my ears just grew red because it was hot, and someone was talking about me behind my back. Yeah, that's the reason." Nick didn't realize how much he liked being called dear until he heard from Mel's lips. He laid down sideways, staring at the ceiling. He was going to wait for Mel to come back so he could fall asleep, knowing he Was here. Just thinking about sleeping on his lap made him giddy and happy; that's if Mel would allow him to. If not, we would sleep in the couch corner or try to. He pulled the blanket over his shoulders so he wouldn't be freezing while he slept. He closed his eyes, trying to think of things to do once he woke up. He made a list and saved it in the back of his mind as we waited for Mel to come back.
Mel took his time gathering papers and quills as well as books from his office, reminding himself that there was need to rush now. He could focus of preparing for the move. He also needed to be aware of any surprise council members making an appearance. For all the court and queen knew, he was in the city at the wrong time during Abrose' and Easton's escape. If Nick was asked about, Mel had come up with a hostage story, though Veda wasn't too fond of the idea. The man had never been one for being seen as a criminal, despite his involvement in the rebellion. Mel took a deep breath as looked around his study before slowly heading out with the stack of work cradled in his arms. He smiled fondly before shutting the door behind him and returning back to what he had now dubbed and Nick's room. As he walked the halls of his estate, the walls around him fluctuated between gold's and navy blues, reflecting the owners iwn mood. Usually he tried to keep his emotions stored away deep within himself for fear if worrying anyone else but he felt the need to release that tention, at least for now. He quietly stepped into the room and set his books down on a small coffee table. He goanced over at Nick and smiled to himself. "That's just torture," he murmured, thinking Nick asleep. "To be that devastatingly handsome should be a crime all in itself." He gently brushed a hand along Nick's cheek before finding another blanket and laying it over Nick for more warmth. "And you were jelous of that guard, for what? What could they possibly have over you?" He shook his head and pulled back, lightly skimming the wall with his hand to dim the lights save for over a chaise lounge and side table where Nel settled with his books and stated to read quietly to himself.
Nick grinned and opened his eyes. He poked Mel's arm pursing his lips together, trying his best not to let his grin show. It wasn't really working, though. "So you think I'm devastatingly handsome, huh?" Nick chuckled. "I never thought someone with your rank could think so highly of me. Please do tell me what do I have over that guard that he cannot match me?" He sat up tiredly, hugging himself with the blanket Mel kindly provided. "However, your hand felt very nice on my cheek. Would you mind doing it again?" He asked, his smug tone coming through. If Mel could feel Nick's hard, it would be beating a mile a minute. For Mel to think of him as he did was possibly the best thing that could've happened today. I wasn't fully asleep, but I was getting there, and then you had to say such marvelous things. I did;t want to interrupt your words. Your voice is like music, and who am I to interrupt a song." He rubbed his eyes before pointing to Mel's lap. "Do you mind if I lay there? It seems much more comfortable than couch cushions. Of course, if it's in your way, I'll gladly find a pillow to lay on."
Mel glanced over and gave a soft smile. "And what does my rank have to do anything? Have I not already demonstrated how little I care for the title?" He questioned, ignoring the blush that rose to his cheeks at being caught. He shook his head slightly and set his book aside to give Nick his attention. "Well, a change of heart for one." Mel muttered with a laugh. "Believe me I wouldn't even be half as interested in you if you still were under the queen's thumb. I'm still trying to figure how you were ever on her side in the first place considering how you seem to act now. In that regard I can understand Veda's hesitation to trust you but i wanted to make my own judgement." He toyed with the edge of the book, flicking through the pages and watching them fall back into place before looking back up Nick with a teasing glare. "You, sly thing, weren't supposed to awake in the first place. I thought I told you to get some rest." He scolded lightly, nodding and reaching over to brush aside Nick's hair. He traced the side of his temple, along his cheek bone then to his jaw line. "Very well," he allowed, patting his leg before resuming his place in his book. "How about this, I'll read for a bit until you fall asleep. Would you like that?"
"Oh yeah? Well, I'm glad you took a chance on me instead of casting me aside. Thanks for that." He bumped Mel's shoulder playfully. Nick gave a smug grin as Mel spoke. "What is your judgment, then?" He leaned into Mel's touch. Nick wanted his hand to stay there forever, but Mel pulled away, and he sighed. He laid down and got in potions on Mel's lap. "Tell me, what do you think of me?" Nick yawned and circled up in his blanket like a cat. "After everything since we met, what is your conclusion, or is it still yet to be determined?" Nick settled in Mel's lap as his body stopped moving, and his mind felt empty as he slowly fell asleep. He wanted to be awake enough to hear his answer, but Mel was much too comfortable to resist slumber.
Mel bunched his lips together in thought before shifting slightly and resting his hand in Nick's hair, toying with the strands. "I think you're a good person put in the wrong place." He muttered softly, a smile tugging at Mel's lips when he felt Nick go still. "We're it not for the Queen's influence I have no doubt the you I see now would have surfaces far sooner. You're loyal to those you care about, something I admire deeply in anyone I meet." He sucked in a breath and lightly brushed a hand along Nick's cheek. "As for my own feelings, I haven't really come to a conclusion just yet. I like you in a different way than I've liked others. With you it's not just what distraction you could offer me and vice versa. For the first time in a long time, I want to get to know you. To know your passions and your hatreds, to know your thoughts." He laughed softly and discarded the book he had intended to read off to the side table, resting his head in his hand. "I never thought much upon what others perceived me as, better that than to let them into.ky heart but for once I want some to know me. I want to show some the true me. Not this lordling but as a rebellion leader, as someone who just wants to be loved, nothing more." He sighed softly and glanced down at Nick. Veda and the rest are my family, I've known no one closer than they, I still crave the closeness of a partner. Someone to selfishly call my own. To confide in and to have that feeling of being loved unconditionally by the one I love." He but his lip and breathed a laugh, tears stinging his eyes as he looked away. "But that is unfair to set upon any individual. Unfair and truely selfish. Forgive me dear sentinel."
Nick turned towards Mel's stomach and wrapped his arms around his waist. "Forgive what?" he mumbled. "You said something about unfair and truly selfish, but hey, if you're going to kill me, then do it when I'm completely asleep. Unless this is about something else?" He snuggled into Mel, humming lightly. "Just because I'm asleep doesn't mean I'm deaf, you know." Nick was extremely tired and kept falling in and out of sleep whenever he heard Mel talk. It was also a mixture of him thinking this is a dream and thinking it's real. "I have no ideas what you're talking about, but everyone's a little selfish sometimes. That's okay. It's part of being human. I mean, take a look at me. I get you all to myself until you get up, and honestly, the more you stay with me, the more time I have with you. It's selfish, but it's what I want, you know? I know you have work to do but still." He said this as he yawned and almost said it like it was any other statement. "It's okay to want something for yourself or to do things for yourself. It's just human nature…like how I don't like to share my food or you. That's being selfish, and you're not food either…..heh bet I could still eat you up, though." He joked to himself. "You didn't hear that. I'm going to bed now again." he yawned for the last time and sighed happily.
Mel raised his hands in surprise as Nick hugged his mid section. He nearly groaned in content and shifted slightly to ready on his side, matching his body with Nick's. "no, I don't think I'd have the nerve to kill you. I wouldn't be so much of a coward as to kill whole some is asleep either." He chuckled lightly as he reached over and brushed his hand along Nick's cheek. "Yes, I was speaking of something elsebut both you and I are far tontired to comprehend any of that now." He hid a yawn behind his hand and let his head fall onto a nearby couch pillow. "You're more than welcome to be selfish with me, dear." He mumbled, unnable to keep his eyes open much longer. He pressed a soft kiss to Nick's brow before giving into the warmth Nick offered and to sleep
It was just starting to become nighttime when Nick awoke. He lifted his head to see Mel's sleeping face. Nick gave a soft smile and laid back down on his chest. His hand hesitated as he reached to touch Mel's cheek. "I shouldn't…" He whispered. "Crazy, how you fell asleep when you were supposed to be doing work. I hope I didn't interrupt you. I most likely did." Nick chuckled. "God, I hope your beautiful face is asleep." Nick sighed. "I should get up. Who knows what will happen if he sees me like this. The only is why is his grip so tight?" Nick tried to get up but wasn't successful. "I guess I am staying until further notice…I can't complain, though." Nick starred at Mel for what seemed like hours, but only a few seconds. He couldn't stop looking at him, no matter how hard he tried. "Something so elegant should be illegal…" Nick looked at his lips and looked away. No, that's crazy. I shouldn't do that. Not to mention that's creepy; what if he wakes up and I'm hovering over him? I can't do that…
(The writers writing this, to nick…DO IT XD)
“Technically speaking, my past and I suppose current situation and actions are considered to be considered illegal.” Mel replied, voice slurred with sleep. He breathed in a sigh and slowly released Nick from his hold, much to his own reluctance. “Forgive me, I hope I wasn’t restricting you.” He scooted up into a sitting position, rubbing his eyes with his hand as he blinked up at the wide open window behind the couch, washing the room in silvery moonlight. “It seems that we’ve slept most of the afternoon.” He mused, wrapping his arms around his knees as he admired the night. He gave a slight smile and gently nudged nick’s shoulder to get his attention while he pointed at the sky. “Hydra.” He muttered softly tracing a long line of stars ending in a small square that represented the creatures head. “And right above it near its tail the little Corvus. And right beside them, the might Leo.”
(I wanted to XD)
He shook his head. "No, no, no, you're okay. I just was surprised that you fell asleep with me. I guess I wasn't the only one who was tired." Even when he wakes up, his voice is beautiful… he cleared his throat, and Nick looked towards the stars and gave a pleased sigh. "It's beautiful. The stars and you." He reached towards Mel's and rested his hand on it. Nick's fingers glided to Mel's jawline lifting his gaze so they could make eye contact. "Go, you're beautiful. I don't need to look at the night sky if the stars are in your eyes." Nick, got closer subconsciously to get a better look. "I'm almost certain I get lost everytime you simple glance at me…" He scoffed. "I shouldn't be thinking like this should I?"
Mel gently leaned into Nick’s hand, giving into the warm hand at his cheek and sighing softly in content. “While I appreciate your compliments dear, I can almost guarantee that I am nothing compared to the stars.” He peeked up at Nick as his head was tilted up, holding as still as possible, barely even breathing as Nick leaned in closer. He lightly held Nick’s wrists thumb light skimming his thumb as he relaxed. “I wouldn’t want you to get lost.” He laughed softly and covered Nick’s eyes for a moment, both to tease and to give Mel a break from the heated gaze and to gather his thoughts. He slowly lifted his hand and smiled softly. “I doubt you’d want to say those pretty words when the other’s are around but I think we’re safe for now.” He reassured, turning his head and gently pressing a kiss to Nick’s hand. “Forgive me for changing the mood but I’ve been meaning to ask you something, now that we’ve taken care of Abrose and Easton.” He sucked in a breath. “I know you were a Sentinel to the Queen but since you’ve been here, you didn’t want to do that anymore. But I can’t help but think that we need someone like you among the rebels.” Mel glanced away nervously. “I guess what I’m asking is would you like to be my sentinel. Or whatever the equivalent that would be for a Lord. I plan on continuing helping those fleeing from the Queen as much as I can while here and hopefully offering a home for those fleeing to the southern continent in the future. We’d still need protection.” He chewed his lip, holding back his urge to say, and I want you to stay with me. “you don’t have to answer right away, of course. It’s just something to consider. And you’d be more than welcome to stay even if you choose to decline.” He added on quickly, gently squeezing nick’s wrists in reassurance. “You’d always have a place here, no matter what you choose to do.”
He frowned when his eyes were covered. “Who said I didn’t like nor want to get lost?” Nick shook his head. “You don’t have to be sorry over something like that.” He listened to Mel, and at first, he believed Mel didn’t want him around. He would respect it, but he wouldn’t like it. Nick looked confused before realizing what Mel had meant. He could feel his heart leaping out of his chest. Nick never thought being a sentinel for someone could ever be a good thing again. Nick was speechless; he didn't know if he should jump with joy or be calm and state what he wanted. Of course, being a sentinel would mean running errands and suggesting ideas based on the best course of action. Nick didn't want to just be that. He wanted to love and take care of Mel. How was Nick going to say something like that? He went silent for what seemed like too long. He leaned in, pulling himself closer to Mel than ever before. "Yes." He whispered almost against his lips. Just like that, Nick was kissing Mel, and it felt perfect. He moved his lips slowly as something so important doesn’t require an aggressive nature. “God, yes. I want to be your sentinel.” He stared for a second before realizing he had just kissed Mel. “Oh, my-my apologies. I didn’t mean to…well, I did mean to at some point…, but I didn’t notice that I just kissed you. Oh god, okay, well, I’m very sorry.” He backed up a bit from Mel to give him some space.
Mel dropped his gaze as the moment of silence stretched to what seemed to be an eternity. How could he had been so selfish, without even consulting the others? He knew they had there reservations about Nick. How could he had not asked their thoughts? The people he trusted with his life. He hadn’t thought at all save for the fact that he was tired of being alone. With someone constantly but when it came to the feelings that truly mattered, alone, especially now that Abrose was an entire continent away. He felt tears well up in his eyes and was about to give a halfhearted excuse to leave when Nick as suddenly all he could see. In the next second, Nick as all Mel could feel. The way his breath caressed Mel’s mouth, taunting him with even just millimeters of distance. Thankfull, that space was closed in seconds. Mel absolutely melted into Nick, only managing to sit upright by gripping onto the fabric of Nick’s shirt. After all the flirting and skirting around the fact that they had interest in each other, Mel could finally relax and let himself show his true emotions with Nick. He gasped in a breath when they pulled apart but already wanted more. He let go of Nick’s shirt and took a moment to breath. He gave a breathy, dreamy laugh and shook his head. “As my Sentinel, from now until our paths part, I will not accept your apologies for something you clearly meant to do. I certainly am not sorry, so tell me, why should you? After all this back and forth between us, are you really regretful of kissing me?” He asked with a smirk, leaning back into the couch and catching his breath.
(I-….the amount of detail is just….I- alright I gotta give you better responses from now on XD I- beautiful Fenrir)
Connor's gaze darted back and forth, almost analyzing Mel's angelic facial features. Nick wanted his hands on his shirt again; he wanted their bodies to be closer than before. For the first time, he wanted….needed someone, and that someone was Mel. He wanted to share things with Mel that he hoped he hadn't seen before. Nick wanted to give Mel things that he's never gotten. His feelings were released in a kiss, and that kiss felt divine. Nick wondered why he even pulled away at all. He was wrapped up in his thoughts that even Mel's voice sounded muffled. He shook his head quickly. "N-No! I…I would never be regretful of kissing you, Mel." Nick can safely say he's never felt this happy before. His body felt light, like he was walking in space and Mel was the stars. "So is the sentinal job exclusively work-related, or can I kiss you again?"
(Aw, thank you! But you give lovely responses as well!)
Mel laughed in amusement, liking the way his name sounded when Nick said it. He tilted his head, hair flopping to one side. “Well, considering part of your job now is to ensure my safety and wellbeing, I would say that falls under that category.” He grinned and slowly leaned forwards, eyes growing heavy with desire. He stopped a few inches away and gently skimmed his knuckled along Nick’s jaw line to draw him in a bit closer. “Unless you’d like to keep it profession. While I’d be disappointed, I can’t say I blame you.” He teased, winking before brush a feather light kiss to Nick’s lips. A delightful warmth coursed through Mel’s body as he found himself leaning in closer. He nestled himself beside nick’s form, head nestle in the crook of his neck. “You need to tell me now if you’re not serious about this.” He murmured softly, lips brushing against Nick skin as he spoke in a soft whisper. “I…I need to know…-if you want this in the same way I do. I’d much rather swear off love than have you be like all the rest.”
(Thank you, Fenrir. I honestly don't understand how you're not a famous author or something.)
"Hey, hey, no. Mel, I know you've probably heard it a million times from however many people, but I want this. I want you. I feel alive when I am with you, Mel. I can hear you even when you're nowhere near me." Nick cupped Mel's cheeks gently, refusing to break eye contact. "I want to make this work, and I want to know everything about you, Mel. I want to hear your thoughts and talk to you even when miles away. I want to wake up so we can have silly little conversations with you. I'm serious, Mel." he closed the gap between their lips as if it was suffocating to be away from Mel this long. His eyes fell shut, letting Mel's warmth almost devour him. Nothing could ruin his day now. Now even if the queen herself marching into this estate. "I want everything to do with you, Mel. Everything…" He trailed off returned the smirk. "Besides, you couldn't get rid of me even if you tried." He whispered. "Does that answer your question?"
(:D thanks, seriously the same goes for you too, I’ll read anything you write)
Mel blushed a soft pink when Nick mentioned being able to hear him even when he wasn’t in the room, making him wonder how many thoughts he had had of Nick while apart from him. He shook his head in embarrassment. He heavily leaned into Nick’s hand, loving his touch, gentle and reassuring. He could have cried if he wasn’t so captivated by Nick’s presence. He was here, with Mel. More than that, he wanted to be with Mel. This didn’t feel temporary like the rest. How many times had he felt empty or guilty after a previous partner had left? Now he had a chance at never feeling like that again. “I would love that….”He trailed off as nick kissed him. He wrapped his arms around Nick’s neck, pulling him in closer. By the time they pulled away, Mel was left truly breathless. He rested His against Nick shoulder with a smile. “Everything might be a stretch, dear. But for now, I’m more than happy to share anything you wish to know.” He murmured, pressing soft kisses to Nick’s jawline and neck as he organized his thoughts and caught his breath. “Hmm, can’t I?” He challenged with a grin. “Even if I can, I wouldn’t want to of course. You mean far too much to me.”
(Thx Fenrir)
"You mean a lot to me, more than anyone. That's saying something." Nick laughed. Nick entertained his challenge. "No, you can't. I can run fast; I can think fast. Even if I can't catch up to you, I can still say hi in your mind. Besides, I wouldn't want you to." He leaned into the kisses taking a deep breath each time he felt Mle's lips on his skin. "You know you're making me feel very adventurous mell with your kisses." Nick clicked his tongue and tilted Mel's chin up so his lips were no longer touching him. "You're the only one who's allowed to be flustered." He kept his hand on Mel's cheeks and the other on Mel's leg to hold him close. He kissed his neck lightly but still left some marks. "Hey, is it okay for me to get jealous when another man touches you? If not, I'll try my best not to react, but It's very hard." He whispered into Mel's ear before pressing kisses along his jawline.
Mel simply nodded, not wanting to further think about a life where would need to leave Nick and never interact with him. “I don’t think I’d so cruel as to leave you in such a blunt way.” He noted, glancing up as Nick tilted his chin up. “Really? And here I thought you were immune to the whims and taunts of a mere lord. Is that not what they have taught as a sentinel?” He teased, gasping softly as he was pulled closer to Nick, hands coming to rest on the other’s chest. “I hardly find that fair dear,” he whispered, eyes closing as he felt his body grow weak in response to Nick’s kisses. He dropped his head onto Nick’s shoulder whining softly as Nick passed over more tender parts of skin. “Then you’ve been jealous this entire time, haven’t you? Considering I am in constant contact with Veda, as well as Abrose. I’d ask you to try and not be jealous of them, seeing as they are my family and clearly have romantic intentions elsewhere.” He tilted his head back far enough to look Nick in the eyes. “As for other’s coming into contact with me, you are entitled to your emotions, dear. I cannot control how you will react. All I ask is that you trust me, please. I know I have an…” Mel frowned slightly and glanced away for a moment before regaining his composure. “Unstable habit when it comes to relationships. But I truly want this to work, Nick. I really, really do. I can’t promise the delusion of a perfect, peaceful life, as much as I try for that to be my goal, but I can promise that I will be faithful to you and only you for however long I am able to love you.” He slightly brushed a hand along Nick’s cheek, hoping he knew just how much he meant those words.
"Of course, I trust you, Mel. How could I not?" His eyes fluttered shut as if sleep was talking over him. His hand felt soft against Nick's cheek like floating on clouds. "After all you've done for me, I don't know how I couldn't trust you." He kissed Mel from his wrist up to his shoulder. "I don't care who you were before you met me. I don't care if you've slept with 100 guys or two; that doesn't matter. Everybody has a relationship. Maybe I haven't, but that's because I was working all of the time." He opened his eyes, keeping them pinned on Mel's. "I care who you are now, You are in a relationship with a new person, and that new person wants to stay with you for a very long time. No matter what obstacles we have to pass, I'm sure we'll be fine. I trust you, and I have faith in you." Nick interlocked their fingers and kissed Mel's forehead. "I hope you can love me forever," he whispered. "Wait, love me? You…you love me?" Nick questioned. He didn't mean it disgustingly. He was genuinely curious. "Like love, not best friend love or joking love, like you love me?"
Mel slowly embraced Nick as he trained kisses to his shoulder, hands tangling into his hair. He found himself fen traced by Nick’s gaze, unable to look away from him. He breathed a sigh of relief he hadn’t noticed was being held until now. Nick trusted him. Surely Mel didn’t deserve that, not after his reputation with other men. He had been so tired of finding someone and then ultimately being let down over and over again, he was even sure if it was worth being faithful to anyone, not if he was the to get his heart broken. He blinked hen Nick kissed his head and let himself fall into his warmth and comfort. “As do I, my dear.” He murmured, settling comfortably against Nick’s form. He could have stayed in that room for an eternity if it meant he could forever be with Nick like this. He hummed softly and glanced up, blush rushing to his cheek. “Ah, yes. I did say that.” He laughed and nodded sheepishly. “Well, I think we’ve past the point of friendship, though if you’d rather remain that way for now, I won’t argue. But I wouldn’t call this a joke either. I don’t think I’m so terrible as to play with someone’s feeling in such a way. So if this is not a friendship, nor a joke, then yes. I do genuinely love you.” He replied, heart swelling at finally saying the revelation out loud. He loved Nick. He was surprised at how short of time he had accepted that fact but he felt it to be right. It felt natural to want to love Nick, to want to be with him in a way that was more than just friends or Lord and Sentinel.
"Just when I thought this day couldn't get any better." Nick couldn't wipe the grin off his face. It was late at night as he held Mel in a soft embrace. Nick was afraid if he wished for anything more, this would all go away. His chest hurt in a good way. It was filled with happiness yet beating with nervousness. "I love you too." There was no hint of hesitation in his voice or mouth. He didn't even stop to think. He only said those three words, and it was the best feeling. "You and no one else. Maybe Easton, but that's a different type of love." Nick pulled Mel onto his lap and hugged his waist. "God, I love you. I pray this never has to end. I'm not even religious. I would say we should go to bed, but we just took a long nap, and besides, with what just happened, I don't think I could fall asleep." Nick nuzzled his head into Mel's chest. "So wait, am I still to call you my Lord. After all, I am your sentinel still. Or should I call you my love?" He teased.
Mel took a few moments to take in what nick said. He loved him back. He had said it twice so there was no way that Mel could have misheard. He gasped as he was pulled into Nick's lap. "Careful, dear. Your wounds." He warned softly, even as he gladly gave into the embrace. "I don't think I could sleep now either." Mel chuckled, tangling both his hands into Nick's hair and combing through it as they talked. "You may call me whatever you'd like, my dear, as long as I remain yours I you mine." He murmured, pressing a kiss to Nick's head.
"My wounds are fine. Sort of. I promise you being on my lap won't open them." Nick leaned back in the seat so he could see Mel a little better. He couldn't believe the person who save him, cared for him, and resented, was sitting in his lap with a smile on their face. That smile was beautiful, just like a flower in bloom for the first time. As time passed that flower looks even more elegant than the first time. It made me want to see the garden bloom again. It made Nick want to keep that smile on Mel's face forever. "Well then, darling. You are immensely beautiful. Your smile is contagious, but none could be brighter than yours." Nick wanted to compliment him all night if he could, however, he was afraid it would be too much, so he stopped. "I know this is off-topic, but when are we leaving to go join Easton and Abrose. No rush, of course." He tucked a loose strand behind Mel's ear so he could get a better view of Mel's eyes,
