forum You think you scare me just because you're Fae?

Started July 22, 2021 by @Fenrir

tune

(Yay I'll let you know when I do that and yeahhhhh I wish these never ended, but we can always make more!)

Nick leaned into the kiss, his lips curling into a soft smile as he met Mel's gaze. He gave a quiet gasp. "I completely forgot about the rest of the house. You should've told me, Mel. I would've helped, I swear. Thank you for packing up the house. I'll make sure to help with the boxes when we move. Don’t worry about moving a thing." Nick frowned slightly, watching Esther leave, then nudged Mel’s shoulder with a playful sigh. "You distracted me!" He turned his attention back to Mel, his expression shifting to one of mild concern. "So, are you ready to meet my parents? If they're still there, I assume we're going today since we’re about to move soon. Should we let Esther and Veda know about our plan to visit my family in the capital? And even if they say no, we still go despite how dangerous it might be." He sighed because listening to him say it out loud sounded even more crazy than it did in his head.

Easton chuckled and leaned forward to take a bit a bite, nodding and humming in approval at the taste. "This is quite good—I might have to get my own," he mused, leaning his knuckles against his cheek as he watched Abrose melt into a smile. "Is that so? Well, you have your fill, and I'll eat whatever is left over," he teased, picking up Abrose's hand and kissing it gently. "I didn't know a pastry could have such an effect on you. Maybe I should open a café of my own, so that way the only food you have that reaction to is mine," he grinned, reaching over to Abrose's hair. When he looked at Abrose, his gaze softened, the edges of his eyes crinkling slightly as if they were smiling on their own. He combed it back behind his ear, resting his hand on Abrose's cheek for a moment before tucking his knuckles back under his own cheek. "Perhaps that's a bit selfish of me, but you're just so beautiful—how could I share you with anyone else? I got so lucky. If you dare say that you're the lucky one, I would have to protest."

(thank you! If you need any details explain lmk, I'm pretty sure I switched a few things around by accident for convenience or I just forgot in general what I was writing😅 I'm always down to write with you, I may be leaving in a year or so, but I do have socials that we can continue on if you're comfortable with that)

"I would have if I was awake. We did sleep for quite a while. It's mostly why I wanted to get the packing done earlier before Roi came but a certain someone always makes a bed seem very inviting." Mel teased, shaking his head as he took Esther's abandoned chair and settled behind Nick, running his finger's through Nick's hair and massaging his shoulders. "Thank you for always wanting to help, darling. But don't worry yourself too much, you're working just as hard as everone else." He reassured, momentarily falling quiet as he contemplated what 5o do next. They still had a bit of packing to do and he had to meet with Knox. But the days were getting numbered and Mel did want to leave very soon, the longer they stayed the higher a chance of them getting caught. He nodded, "I'll tell them. I'd rather them know where we are regardless of whether they approve than if some happens and they worry." He grinned down at nick and pressed a kiss to his forehead. "Since when are any of us known for making our lives easier?"

"If there is anything left over. Suddenly I'm not as inclined to share." He teased back, blushing at the affection. "That is you learn how to bake. I would gladly be your taste tester." He smiled and tilted his head into the gentle carresses, peppering Easton's palm in sugary kisses. "I don't mind you being selfish. That just means I get to try more treats from you." He laughed and nudged the tea towards Easton before he kept eating the apple pastry. "But I am. I get to love you and be with you. After everything that we've been through together how can I not call us lucky?" He cut off a few bites of pastry and set them aside for Easton. "I do want to try the donuts as well."

(Omg yeah for sure! Sad that you're leaving in a year though are finishing with college then?)

Nick stretched as he sat up, running a hand through his hair, feeling the familiar urge to do more, to be more helpful. He glanced at Mel, a soft smile tugging at his lips. “I know, I know… lying around with you is definitely not something I’m complaining about,” he chuckled, “but you know how it is. I want to be useful.” He nodded at Mel’s words about telling Esther and Veda, his mind already shifting to what needed to be done. “Yeah, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Besides, I’ll be there to protect you. That’s my job, after all—your sentinel.” There was a glint of determination in his eyes as he said it. “And don’t worry, I’ll bring a few knives just in case. You know me.” Nick leaned in for a quick, tender kiss before standing up. He started toward the stairs, pausing to turn back to Mel. “I’ll be back soon. Need anything from up there before we head to town?” He asked, his hand resting on the banister.

Easton chuckled, leaning back in his chair, tapping his fingers lightly on the mug. "Maybe I should become a baker then. Seems like a better occupation than being a cop. I think I've had enough authority for one lifetime." He smiled thoughtfully. "Thank you, because now I know exactly what I want to do. I could even start here. I wonder if they’re hiring." He continued to tap the mug, the warmth seeping into his hands. "Oh, so now you want to try my donuts, huh?" He grinned, teasing. "Well, it's only fair since I did have a bite of yours. It’s kinda strange, though, eating desserts for breakfast, but I’m not complaining." Taking a sip of the tea, Easton scrunched his nose slightly at the sweetness. "This is pretty sweet, huh? Did you always like things this sweet?" He set the cup down, pushing it back toward Abrose, just as Debbie brought over the donuts. His smile widened into a grin as she placed the plate on the table and politely left them to eat. "Oh, this is going to taste so good." He picked up one of the twisted donuts, taking a bite from the bottom. The moment the flavor hit him, he couldn't resist, and his pace quickened as he ate more. He looked at Abrose, eyes gleaming with excitement. "You definitely have to try these." Grabbing a piece of another donut, he held it up to Abrose with a grin, waiting for him to take a bite.

(Almost, I'm in my third year at uni. Probably won't permanently leave but will be on less. I can message you separately for the socials, do you have a preferred one? I'm mostly on instagram and tumblr)

"You're more useful than you realize, my dear. More than just my sentinel." He returned the kiss before standing and putting the chair back by the dining area. "I doubt there's any need for knives, dear. but if they make you feel safer feel free to raid the utensils, I'm sure there's something sharp in there. While you do that, I'm going to talk to our little spirit friend and tell Veda where we're going. I'll meet you back out here in an hour. I don't think I need anything else but you." He winked before heading down the hall to Knox's room, gently knocking on the door before he entered the starry landscape.

He dropped down onto his knees in the middle of the clearing, watching as sprites and orbs of light surrounded him in greeting before they scattered away into their own little hiding places in the forest, leaving Mel in semi-darkness. A few moments later a white stag emerged into the clearing, his head held proudly high but there was annoyance in his eyes as he approached, only made clearer by the flash of fanged teeth when he bowed his head towards Mel. Mel only rolled his eyes as he reached up towards the beast and soothingly stroked his head. "Tell me why I had to learn we were uprooting our lives from Esther. The creature didn't speak aloud, similar to Nick's ability, Knox could enter headspaces if he so wished. Being a creature of old he could do much more but for now he only spoke with Mel through their minds in an old deep voice. Mel chuckled softly "Because if it came from me, you'd be more pissed off." He muttered, yelping as Knox nipped his hand. "I have protected this family for eons young lord. I should be the first to be informed when something changes." Mel only rolled his eyes and went back to petting the spirit. "We've had a lot on our plate with Abrose and Easton's move, and then Roi visiting. I'm about to head out to meet Nick's parents last minute and then we'll be on a ship to the southern continent in less than a few hours." The stag's expression softened slightly and he apologetically licked Mel's hand. "I see. Seeing Roi couldn't have been easy but I'm sure you handled it well in you're own slightly petty way." That got a laugh out of Mel as he nodded, "I did, he says hello by the way." Knox only rolled his eyes as he gave a low growl of indifference. "I never liked him. On the note of your partners, You still haven't introduced me to your sentinel lover. Afraid I'll disapprove?"
Mel shook his head, "more concerned you'll bite his hand off but we'll save the introduction for later." He reassured, gently nudging aside Knox's head from where he had settled in Mel's lap and stood. "I have to go but I'll come by again when we move." The spirit stood and shook out his crown of antlers. "I will be far along by the time you come back. We'll meet on the southern continent soon, young lord. Spirits guide you." Mel bowed deeply before making his way back to the hallway, seeking out Veda's and Esther's room.

He knocked on their door, hearing a bit of rustling before Veda opened the door. "Mel, is everything alright?" he asked, Esther, appearing beside her husband a moment later. Mel nodded "Just letting you know I'm going out with Nick to meet his parents before we leave for good." Veda narrowed his eyes "Are you sure that's a good idea? With all the guards patrolling the capital should you be anywhere near there?" Mel shook his head, clearly agreeing with Veda's concerns "No, but this could be the only time I get to meet his parents. I want to make a good impression on them for both Nick's and my own sake." He explained. Veda gave a small smile "Since when do you care about what anyone thinks? You must truly be in love with him if all of a sudden his parent's approval means so much to you." Mel blushed at that and started to back away "More than you know," He confessed, grabbing a cloak from a broom closet and tossing it over his shoulders. "Try and keep this place in one piece for however long we have it while I'm gone. I'll be back soon." He promised, giving a small wave before he returned back to the kitchen.

"That would be quite the change from what you've known," Abrose noted, gently squeezing Easton's free hand. "But I think it's a good change. We can always ask after if they'd be willing to take you on as an apprentice." Abrose laughed and nodded, "It is a bit weird and usually not my first option for breakfast but I think we've both earned ourselves a bit of a treat." Abrose took his tea back and carefully took a few more sips. "not all the time I thought it was needed after last night." He looked up again when Debbie came back with the donuts, grinning when he saw Easton light up with excitement. "Thank you, my love. For a moment I thought I would have had to steal a piece while you weren't looking." He chuckled and gratefully took the bite of the donut, eyes widening in amazement. "These are amazing! Would it be wrong of me to convince you to become a baker solely to have a supply of these at home?"

Nick felt a warmth spread through his chest at Mel's words, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. "You're sweet, but you know I'll always want to protect you, knives or not." He grinned, standing up as Mel walked away. He watched him for a moment, a small smile tugging at his lips before turning towards the kitchen. "Something sharp, huh?" Nick muttered to himself, making his way over to the utensils. He rummaged through drawers, his fingers skimming over knives of different sizes. He chuckled softly, picking up a small but sharp one that felt just right in his hand. "This'll do." He glanced back towards the hallway where Mel had disappeared. Nick quickly tucked the knife into his belt, then made his way towards their room to find anything else he could bring. His thoughts lingered on Mel's wink, and a soft laugh escaped his lips. "Guess all he really needs is me." Nick smiled to himself at he looked through his drawer and sure enough he found his house key hidden among the remaining close he had left behind for the next few days. He then met back with Mel in the kitchen with a smile. "Do you have one for me too? Also, I heard you talking before I went upstairs it didn't sound like Veda or Esther."

Easton leaned back in his chair, his fingers tapping thoughtfully on the edge of his mug as he glanced over at Easton. "No, it wouldn’t be wrong at all. In fact…" he paused, excitement creeping into his voice, "I think I’m going to ask if they have a job opening." His gaze flickered to the bakery counter, a smile tugging at his lips as he added, "Maybe I’ll open my own café one day once I learn how to bake. You could visit me every day, and I’d gloat about how my boyfriend sells the prettiest flowers." Standing up with a bit of eagerness, Easton made his way toward Debbie. His steps were light, the idea of a new opportunity buzzing through him. "Hey, Debbie," he said with a hopeful tone, "Do you think you have a job opening for a baker? I really want to learn."

Debbie’s face lit up with a bright smile, clearly delighted by his request. "Ah, yes! We just had an opening, actually," she responded, scribbling quickly on a small notepad. "I assume you want to enjoy your lunch right now, but come in tomorrow morning for a job interview." She tore off the piece of paper and handed it to him with a warm nod. "Here’s a list of things you’ll need to bring with you tomorrow. Have a nice lunch!" She gave him one last encouraging smile before marching off into the back.

Easton walked back to the table, grinning from ear to ear, and slid into his seat. He held up the note like a trophy and leaned in slightly. "Guess who has a job interview tomorrow?" He couldn’t help but beam, his enthusiasm infectious as he glanced at Abrose.

Mel had been putting together a small basket of snacks for their trip, putting in the remaining strawberries and a small jar of melted chocolate. He had grabbed an extra riding cloak for Nick and a hat that aside while putting himself to work, making the snack and cleaning the dishes they had used to make breakfast. He glanced up and shook his head, "No that was our resident guardian spirit, Knox. He's watched over this family and ancestors past for far longer than any of us can imagine. You'll meet him soon once we've moved to our new home. He can be a bit prickly but he means well and knows far more than he lets on about what's going on. He's… apprehensive…about meeting you because of your former relations with the Queen but he seemed to take it well when Abrose introduced Easton so I have full faith you'll win him over." He smiled sweetly grabbed the cloak that he had set aside on the chair and tossing over Nick's shoulders, gently pulling him in for a kiss. "Just as you've won me over, time and time again."

Abrose grinned "Any excuse I get to see you and sample your treats I will gladly take." he set his plate off to the side, enjoying the warmth from his cup of tea as he sipped at it while watching the activities unfold outside the cafe window. He looked up when Easton got up, pausing in his tranquil enjoyment to watch his every move, looking for any sign that he'd be given a chance. He chewed his lip nervously, tapping his fingers against the side of his mug. He had no doubt Easton would work hard for his dreams, even before they even considered their feelings for each other Abrose could tell Easton had an immense amount of determination towards whatever he put his mind to. He broke out into a smile when he saw Debbie hand a paper to Easton. "So soon? That's great, my love." He stood to read over Easton's shoulders, trying to remember if they had the items at home. "This is a great start." He pressed a kiss to Easton's cheek.

Nick kissed back, his eyes fluttering shut for a brief moment, “Hm? Is that so?” Nick murmured, his breath warm against Mel’s lips, the corners of his mouth curving into a teasing smile. “Well, I can’t wait to meet them. If you’re meeting my parents, it’s only fair I get a turn too, don’t you think?” With a quick motion, he flipped the hood of his jacket over his head as he gently nudged Mel forward, guiding them both toward the entrance of the estate. As they walked, Nick cast a sidelong glance at Mel, his voice turning thoughtful. “So, Knox,” he began, the name rolling off his tongue with curiosity, “are they like a parent figure to you? Now that I think about it, I don’t think I’ve heard much about your actual parents.” He hesitated, his steps slowing slightly as he weighed his next words. His tone softened, careful yet open. “If it’s a touchy subject, though, we don’t have to talk about it. I just… want to know you better, Mel. All of you.” He glanced over, searching Mel’s expression for any sign of discomfort, ready to steer the conversation elsewhere if needed, but not without leaving the door open for them to share if they wanted to.

"Well," Easton began, his voice carrying a hint of excitement as he leaned closer, “I told her why I’ve been so eager to work here—laid out everything I love about the place—and she said they’d see what they could do. Apparently, they’re already looking to fill the position, so it feels like good timing.” He bit his lip, his smile threatening to break free despite his effort to play it cool. Abrose’s eyes lit up, and Easton couldn’t help but laugh softly at his enthusiasm. “This is a very good start, my love,” Easton continued, his tone warming with affection. “I mean, never in a million years did I think I might actually become a baker. It’s a bit surreal.” He hesitated for a moment before adding, a playful glint in his eyes, “You’ll have to help me practice, though. I’m not exactly great at handling certain things with my bare hands yet. I want to be able to dive into the messy stuff, just like you do. Maybe I could even help out at the store every now and then.” Before Abrose could reply, Easton took his hands in his own, his grip firm but tender, and lifted them to his lips. He pressed a gentle kiss to the back of Abrose’s hand, the small, intimate gesture radiating both playfulness and sincerity. “And who knows,” Easton murmured, his voice softening, “if this all works out, maybe it’ll inspire something new for us. I just hope everything goes well for the other two. They deserve it, after everything they’ve been through.”

Mel gave a nod and kissed the corner of Nick's grin. "Every morning I wake up to you beside me i fall in love all over again." He gave a smile of his own before grabbing riding gloves and leading them through the halls toward the entrance of the estate where the horses were waiting. "Knox is more of an older brother, though he most definitely takes on a parental role now and then. Particularly when we do something he doesn't approve of." he chuckled softly, knowing he was the cause of most of the spirit's disapproving opinions. Mel tipped his head thoughtfully and gave a small shrug. "I'm not sure there's much to say in regards to them. Don't get me wrong, they're great parents, but ever since Abrose's family died, they never felt safe staying in place for too long. I was already making my way up through the court as a young lord without much suspicion, so they thought it best to leave me here. I could take care of Abrose and then later Veda and Esther. They visit briefly here and there, but I doubt we'll see them until we get to the Southern Continent. I already sent out word we'll be moving there to them so they can meet us there." He glanced at Nick, his heart melting at his partner's concern. "My dear, you're allowed to ask questions here without fear that I'll somehow be upset. Ask any question you want, I promise I know you mean no offense or harm." He reassured, pressing a kiss to Nick's temple as they reached the front courtyard. "When we do meet them, I'm sure they'll love you. After all, I'd be following in Mother's footsteps. A young lady of the high court marrying a soldier? not too different from I suppose." Mel adjusted the horse's reigns before swinging his leg over the saddle and tugging on the riding gloves.

Abrose couldn't help but smile even wider, unable to contain his happiness for Easton. There was still a voice in the back of his head, wondering if all of this was too good to be true, that if he woke up from the dream, he'd just be back in the dungeons again, the life they were living nothing but a dream but Easton's gentle laugh pulled him out of his doubt. "It's perfect timing." He agreed, pressing a kiss to Easton's hair. "I would love to. It's going to take me a bit to make my normal stock of products while we get a new harvest going, so I'll have plenty of time to help you practice. Believe me, I have no complaints about baking the entire day with you." Abrose's gaze softened as he brushed his hand against Easton's cheek. "And I never thought up until recently you'd ever want to help with my job. Much less ever touch another plant if you had the choice. I would love nothing more than to work beside you." He felt the familiar warmth radiate through his body, bringing a flush to his cheeks as Easton spoke, something now he didn't associate as much with embarrassment but more with immense joy knowing he had Easton as a partner, that he wasn't going away, and more importantly, he was loved and could love someone so deeply. Abrose settled back in his seat, scooting closer to Easton so they woudn't let go of their linked hands, and tipped his head curiously. "Something new hm? I'm sure it will. THe others will be proud and hopefully can relax for once in so long when they get here. We'll have to care for them for a change." he grinned, knowing Mel and Veda would protest to no end but for everything they had done for Abrose, it was the very least he could do. "I'm sure Nick will be pleasantly surprised to find out you took up baking." He noted as he finished his pastry. While he didn't know Nick as well as everyone else, Abrose was going with the assumption that he could make Mel as happy as he was before they left he had had to change a great deal from what he had seen back at the castle.

Nick watched Mel with quiet admiration, his heart swelling at the ease with which he spoke about his family and his role in caring for the people he loved. There was something captivating about the way Mel carried himself—strong yet gentle, responsible yet effortless. "You're so cute when you talk. Then again, you're cute when you do everything," Nick murmured, a fond smile tugging at his lips as he reached up to tuck a stray lock of hair behind Mel’s ear. "I love you so much."

Mel had taken on so much without hesitation, and it only made Nick love him more. He exhaled softly, his fingers grazing over Mel’s as he added, "You know… we have much more in common than I thought. I wish I were a noble, but then again, I’d probably turn out more like Easton than who I am now." He let out a chuckle, shaking his head. "You could not imagine how stuck-up he used to be. You've probably heard the stories from Abrose, but wow—Abrose changed him for the better."

Nick mounted the horse after Mel, he reached forward and wrapped his arms snugly around Mel’s waist. Pressing a few soft kisses to his cheek, he rested his chin on Mel’s shoulder, inhaling the familiar scent of him—something warm and comforting, like home. "Lead the way, beautiful," he murmured, his voice laced with affection. A teasing grin spread across his lips as a memory surfaced. "You know, one moment I’ll never forget is when you saw me shirtless for the first time . I was bruised and bloody, but you looked at me like I was your next snack." He let out a playful laugh, squeezing Mel slightly. "I swear, I thought you were about to devour me whole."

Mel huffed a small laugh as he gently patted down Gishlain, making sure that the reigns were comfortable for the horse as he adjusted to Mel's weight. "I can guarantee you that being a noble is not all the fun it seems. There is constant deception, and you constantly play a role in everyone else's game." Mel shook his head in disgust. "You become an entirely different person; sometimes, if you stick around long enough, you blur the lines of truth." He glanced over his shoulder, leaning into Nick's comfort. "Ah yes, Abrose did mention a certain captain that wouldn't keep his nose out of the apothecary. I was half tempted to find out what Easton was doing there so often but Aborse seemed like he could handle it. I now see he was more than capable and I'm glad they worked out. Believe it or not, Easton also changed Abrose's heart, at least when it came to how he thought of nobility. For a long time, he couldn't trust anyone, save for us and even that took a lot out of him. It probably wouldn't have ended well if Easton hadn't shown that more caring side of himself the night of the ball."
Mel gently nudged Gishlain into a walk towards the outskirts of the forest that led to the main city. Mel let himself lean into Nick's arm while he could under the cover of the trees. He hoped that one day, very soon, he'd be able to be like this anywhere without the fear of getting caught. Mel let out a delighted laugh "Oh really? That's what's engrained as your first impression of me? Granted, there probably was a part of me that was thinking that, but I wasn't particularly inclined to bed a soldier who I thought was trying to kill my friend and was now in my home." He reached up and pressed a tender kiss to Nick's jaw, teeth grazing his skin as he tasted the salty sweetness of his beloved sentinel. "Now, I can confidently say my opinions have drastically changed and I intend to savor you slowly very soon, my dearest," he murmured, gaze heavy with promise and desire, not Only for Nick but for a life he knew would guarantee their happiness.
"You speak of everyone else's change, but I wonder how much change you see in yourself, my love. As much as I hope you've always been this kind and optimistic, I can't imagine the Queen taking a liking to anyone with a positive outlook on the world." He tipped his head thoughtfully "And how have you changed those around you? I can say definitely for the better."