Alexander beamed and continued to eat the chicken, periodically coughing from the spice. "That's good, and I don't know what I would do without you," he admitted sincerely, his affection for Faybian evident in his eyes. As he ate, thoughts about his college attendance lingered in his mind, prompting a slight frown. He knew that his time with Faybian might be limited if he went to physical classes more often. "Hey, so since you're going to live up here and whatnot, what's your plan? Are you going to be waiting for me to get home every day? That would be nice," he teased, gathering a few more pieces of chicken after finishing his first serving. "I'm joking. I wouldn't mind either way. I just don't want you feeling left out, and always being here at the apartment might feel suffocating. I just don't want you to feel like that," he expressed, genuine concern evident in his tone. He pondered for a moment before a thought occurred to him. "I could always get a bigger apartment too. That way, there would be more space for the both of us, and you'd have a nicer kitchen to work in. Plus, you could see something other than the depressing streets of New York City," he suggested, feeling a bit embarrassed at how domestic their conversation had become. "Oh yeah, we also need to plan our wedding, don't we, since it's official and everything," he added with a slight blush, feeling a rush of excitement at the thought.
Faybian couldn't quite look Alexander in the eyes as he nodded slightly, preoccupying himself with dinner rather than the pang of guilt in his heart. "I wouldn't either, my dear." He replied softly, offering a small smile even as his mind raced with the possibility of being alone after a life together. Could he go back to hell and pretend as if nothing happened, as if Alexander's life meant next to nothing in his eternal afterlife? That's what the old Faybian would do. He'd move on with no remorse. With little thought to a measly human. Alexander would have been nothing but a form of entertainment for Faybian. The human would go to heaven because of course an innocent human being tormented by a demon and strayed away from the path of good deserved to get redeemed. It would all play out the same either way except now, Faybian actually cared. More than that he loved Alexander. Faybian Leander, Overlord of the pride ring, disgraced fallen angel, loved a human. He was willing to make a deal with Lucifer of all people to guarantee the one he loved got to heaven. And even if Lucifer wasn't the one in charge of making that judgment it was better than nothing. It was better than Alexander ending down in hell with Faybian. Faybian snapped out of his tormented thought to catch Alexander's conversation, trying his best to make it look like he was listening to the entire time. He chewed through his food slowly, perking up slightly at the mention of a larger kitchen. Alexander always knew what to say to make Faybian smile, even if it was a faint one for now. "I was actually going to ask if it was okay to enroll at your school, perhaps as a professor or even as a student. If I'm going to be staying here for the time being, I thought it'd be a good idea to get back into my love for science." He reasoned, "and it gives us a chance to see each other more often." He added with a grin. He loved the idea of seeing Alexander in the halls or across campus, stealing a few kisses from him before running off to class. "Though I worry if I were a professor the rumor of you sleeping with a teacher would go around quickly." He winked and stood to grab more food. "I'm more than alright here, my love but I do appreciate your concern. Perhaps we can look for a place for ourselves later on after you graduate or the wedding." He suggested, pressing a kiss to Alexander's head in reassurance. "It's not as bad as Hell actually. In a way, it's a bit nostalgic." He shrugged and settled back down. "We do indeed. However I do have to ask, how mad would you be if I preplan our honeymoon? I may have a few placed in mind already."
(Sorry I haven't been very responsive this past week; I've been on break, so I'm on vacation. When Monday hits, I'll probably go back to responding daily :3)
Alexander's eyes widened with surprise at Faybian's announcement. "That's fantastic, Faybian! Becoming a teacher could work in your favor financially. So, I'd suggest aiming for that first. But if not, I wouldn't mind accompanying you to class. The college admissions process can be lengthy, but you have what it takes to show them you're worth it. If you do decide to apply to my college and you need help just come to me. I really don't mind helping you. I am getting my doctorate, so I know what this school wants to see. This means I can finally help you with something. This is going to be so exciting!" Leaning closer across the table, he affectionately tousled Faybian's hair before finishing off the last piece of chicken. Moving to the sink, Alexander deposited his dishes, his mind already buzzing with thoughts of Faybian's future. "You know, there are plenty of rumors floating around about students dating teachers at our college, but none of them have ever been proven true. Whatever path you choose, I'll be supporting you every step of the way." He leaned back against the table with a warm smile, occasionally snagging a fry as he watched Faybian eat. "Tomorrow, we absolutely must visit that cafe again. Everything looked so tantalizing yesterday, but it wasn't the same without you. Don't worry; I've already picked out a few items I think you'll love."
(No worries at all! hope you're enjoying your vacation! I'm starting finals soon so I also may be a little sporadic with responses until the end of the month.)
Faybian couldn't help but feel an immense sense of relief, knowing he had Alexander's approval and support. Even with everything about Luce and their afterlife spinning in his head, it was nice to know that in this decision, he had Alexander's support. "Thank you, dear. That means a lot to me, knowing I have you by my side in all of this. I probably will need your help every step of the way whether I choose professor or student. I'm not all that familiar with how colleges work in this century." He admitted sheepishly, chuckling lightly as Alexander ruffled his hair. He ran a hand through it to get it out of his face but otherwise didn't really try and do much to fix it. He shrugged as he finished off his own dinner, leaving the rest of the fries for Alexander to enjoy while he started on the dishes. "I suppose that's true for all institutes, though ours wouldn't be a rumor, would it." He pressed a kiss to Alexander's cheek "We do, especially after I had promised you I'd meet you after the meeting. I owe you one. I could pick you up after class and we could head straight there from campus if you'd like, unless you'd rather drop your stuff off here first." He offered, glancing over his shoulder with a grin. "Have you now dear? If you're the one who made the choice then I'm guaranteed to love it."
(I am also doing my finals soon so I'll probably be dipping in and out at dys at a time until the second half of May)
Alexander nodded. "Yeah, you can pick me up from class. I'm sure my friends would want to meet you anyway." He crossed his arms over his chest. "Honestly, getting into college is easier yet harder at the same time. Before they would only look at your grades and who you are academically, but now they more look at your financial situation and what you've been through. Obviously, you still need to have good grades, but even is you have a B+ average you could still get into a really good school if your SAT scores are high enough and what you've been doing throughout high school looks good. They also judge you based on your race. It's a whole ordeal. Enough college talk for today. I'm tired and all I want to do is lay down with you." He leaned down and with a swift movement placed his hand on Fayian's cheek. Alexander pressed a sweet kiss against Faybian's forehead. His eyes softened as he opened them. "I love you."
(Good luck with the finals!)
"As would I, dear. They seem like great people from what you've told me." He agreed, falling into a rhythm of doing dishes as Alexander explained the trials and tribulations that were in the 21st-century education system. "It seems all a bit pretentious if not very biased," Faybian muttered, rinsing and drying his hands before he started putting the dishes away. Faybian wasn't entirely sure how much time he had to get affairs in order in Hell before he was kicked out for a lifetime but he was sure he could pull some strings with a few minor lords for edited files. He did have his paperwork from when he had been alive but he was sure transcripts and diplomas from when he was alive wouldn't line up with the current time's requirements and would raise more questions than he was willing to answer. He leaned his head into Alexander's hand, breaking out of his thoughts of who to ask in hell and how to best avoid questions about his sudden change in status, and closed his eyes briefly at the gentle kiss. "I love you too, angel. Go shower and relax for a bit, I'll join you once I'm done here." He urged gently, a small smile flitting across his features at the thought of finally relaxing with Alexander after a very long day.
(You too!)
Alexander nodded to himself and made his way to the bathroom, the sound of running water soon filling the space. Leaning his hands on the sink, he gazed at his reflection in the mirror, a sigh escaping his lips. He couldn't shake the feeling of guilt for uprooting Faybian from hell so suddenly. The weight of the changes they'd experienced over the years hung heavy on his mind, leaving him to wonder if he'd inadvertently deprived Faybian of his connections, his home. Frustration gnawed at him as he undressed, and he found himself leaning heavily against the sink, lost in thought. Were these upheavals still part of the deal he'd struck with Faybian? Alexander chided himself, admonishing his doubts. "Don't think like that, Alexander," he muttered, trying to push aside the nagging uncertainties. Then, a sudden realization struck him, prompting him to throw open the bathroom door and poke his head out towards the kitchen, where Faybian was likely still lingering. "Hey, um… do you maybe want to meet my parents?" he blurted out, his words tumbling forth in a rush. "I know it's probably not the same for you as it was back then, but it's sort of traditional for someone's partner to meet their parents if they're thinking about getting married. I mean, I know my parents aren't the greatest, but I'd still like you to meet them if you're okay with it?" His voice carried a mix of eagerness and apprehension, unsure of how Faybian would react to the proposal.
Faybian shook his head fondly as he returned to cleaning the rest of the dishes and drying the ones that had been set aside to dry, losing himself in thought. He would gladly give up heaven and hell a million times over if it meant he had a chance with Alexander, who of the sinners wouldn't take that sweet chance? Faybian knew plenty more who would kill for a chance to live again. It had Faybian apprehensive as to what threat his situation put himself, and more importantly, put Alexander in if his little deal with Lucifer got out to the wrong people. His disappearance would surely turn some heads. And then he had heaven to think about. They wouldn't turn a blind eye to a fallen angel returning to Earth only to find out he was marrying a human. Their pride would be hurt at the very least, at the worst, they'd hurt Alexander to get Faybian to relinquish his bond, contractual or otherwise. His hidden wings itched at the mere thought of Alexander getting hurt by either side. No matter what hell-given power Lucifer stripped from him and what he chose to appear as Faybian was still a fallen angel through and through and no one was going to lay a finger on Alexander. It was these mental spirals where Faybian was glad he didn't have the same powers now, otherwise they'd be down a significant amount of plates in the apartment. He set the plate he was drying in the cabinet and let himself relax in the rare moment of silence in the house. Now he did love hearing his fiance's voice, but he couldn't think of the last time he had had a moment of silence, without the whir of radio waves in his mind. It was tranquil.
His eyes snapped open as his attention was drawn back to Alexander, rather abruptly. He tilted his head curiously half distracted by Alexander and half by the idea of meeting his parents. He wasn't entirely sure why it had taken him this long to realize that Alexander obviously had family close to him. "I would love to, dear." He replied, leaning against the counter. "I'm touched you're considering the ways I used to do things back when I was alive. It would be an honor to meet the people responsible for the person I've come to love so deeply." He stepped forward and pressed a kiss to Alexander's brow. "was this something you had to tell me right before you were going to shower though, my love? not that I'm not loving seeing you like this, but it could have waited a few minutes until you were dressed." he teased, his hand lightly ghosting over Alexander's bare skin. "Unless this is your way of telling me you want company?"
His cheeks flushed a deeper shade as Faybian agreed, sending a tingling sensation up his spine. "Ha…" Alexander's voice quivered slightly, his nerves betraying him. "U-Uh, well, I just had the thought, and I acted out of impulse," he stammered, hastily closing the door to conceal his exposed form. "I-I wasn't necessarily saying that I want company or anything. Although we are engaged, so I wouldn't mind. But you also showered, so you should head off to bed." His words tumbled out in a rush, his face burning with embarrassment as he leaned against the door, placing a hand over his racing heart to calm himself. "However, if you want to, the door is unlocked.." he added hastily through the door before retreating into the shower and closing the curtain. Despite the warm water cascading over his body, Alexander felt a rush of heat flood his cheeks. "Why did I just run out like that?" he muttered, covering his face with his hand and splashing the hot water onto his flushed skin to regain his composure. "Just how much did he see?" The thought sent a shiver of embarrassment down his spine as he reached for the soap, trying to focus on his shower routine to distract himself from the awkward encounter. "ARGH!" he exclaimed in frustration, his cheeks burning with embarrassment. "Man, I wanted that to be special too.."
"I see that, doll." Faybian purred, tempted to continue his teasing like this morning but soon found a door between him and his fiance. "You're sending mixed signals, sweetheart." He cooed, leaning against the door for a moment, debating on whether he should enter and have Alexander right then and there like he's been wanting for months now or prolong their wait. His hand wavered over the door handle, a small smile spreading over his features at hearing Alexander struggle. What would stop them now from being together? It wasn't like Faybian had the excuse of being tied to hell anymore. He wasn't a demon by hell's standards nor ever an angel by heaven's. He was himself for all intent and purpose and he was Alexander's. He chewed his lip and shook his head with a short laugh before he took a step back. "You deserve more than shwoer sex, my love. All I ask is a bit of patience until we can get a bed deserving of our love. Until then, please don't punch the wall again." He willed himself to walk to their bedroom and change, focusing on anything more than his desperate desire for Alexander for now until he could have him in his arms. Choosing one of Alexander's shirts and a pair of comfy shorts, Faybian crawled into bed and read a bit while he read as he awaited Alexander.
Alexander emerged from the shower, the steam from the hot water still lingering in the air around him. Clad in his usual oversized shirt and boxers, he moved relaxedly, his tousled hair damp from the shower. Usually, he preferred to sleep shirtless, but with Faybian sharing the bed, he opted for a more modest attire. "Hey… did you say something earlier when I was in the shower?" he inquired, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity as he entered the room, towel draped over his head. With practiced motions, he gently towel-dried his hair, the soft fabric absorbing the moisture as he settled onto the edge of the bed. The room was filled with a comfortable silence, broken only by the sound of Alexander's movements and the faint hum of the air conditioner. As Alexander continued towel-drying his hair, his gaze drifted idly around the room, taking in their shared space's familiar sights and sounds. There was a sense of peace and contentment in the air, a quiet reassurance that everything was as it should be. He gently pulled Faybian's book down from his view. With a final pat to his hair, Alexander tossed the towel aside and leaned back against the pillows, his gaze lingering on Faybian's sleeping form. "I could've sworn I heard you mumbling earlier," he repeated, his voice soft and laced with curiosity. "Was there something on your mind?
Faybian hadn't realized how late they had stayed up until he was slowly nodding off, the book falling to his chest as his breathing evened out into a relaxed rhythm. The familiar smell of his fiance's body wash and shampoo eventually pulled him out of the light sleep he had fallen into. A small smile tugged at his lips as Alexander pulled the book away and curled up beside him. Faybian shifted around a bit, covering them both in a blanket and holding Alexander close, his nose buried in Alexander's hair. "It was nothing, my dear. Merely something I'm sure would have gotten you more flustered if possible." He murmured, a teasing smirk on his features. "I just asked that you not punch the wall again in your haze of embarrassment. The rest were my own little fantasies of us. Nothing to worry about for now." He promised, kissing Alexander's nose and gently running his fingers through his clean hair to get out any tangles. "About before, aside from the teasing I would actually love to meet your parents. I promise I'll be a good little demon." He winked and briefly caressed Alexander's cheek. "I only wish you could have met mine. At least my father. You two would have gotten along well I think. He wasn't much into chemistry but he had such a love for biology." He recalled fondly. "He had all these different taxedermies of animals we'd find in the woods, told me it was like giving new life one unfortunately passed. And pinned insects on every wall imagineable. He had an odd fascination with praying mantises. My favorite ones were the ones that could blend into flowers to catch prey." It had been a long while since Faybian talked about his living life, even longer still about his father but it felt nice, if not a bit sad sharing a piece of himself with Akexander, knowing he could never see his dad again and had given up any chance he had at heaven just for petty revenge.
Alexander nodded along, but there was a flicker of confusion in his eyes. Then, as the realization dawned on him, his expression softened. "I guess you were separated when you were chosen to go to Hell. So, that means I wouldn't be able to visit him either. I understand. He sounds like a great guy. I didn't know you had a favorite insect. God, I feel like I don't know anything about you, and we're about to get married." He laughed, the sound light and easy, as he slid his hand up to Faybian's cheek. "It's a little silly, don't you think?" Alexander gazed into Faybian's eyes, his thumb gently brushing over his lips before he leaned in to kiss them. The kiss was tender, lasting for a few moments before he settled back into his position, a contented smile playing on his lips. "However, you seem tired. Let's go to bed. I came home later than I thought."The room was quiet, the only sounds being their soft breaths and the faint hum of the city outside. The warmth of their shared space enveloped them, creating a cocoon of intimacy. He looked at Faybian, his eyes filled with love and a hint of concern. "I know there's still so much to learn about each other, but we have time. And I promise, I'll be here, learning and loving every part of you."
"In a way I suppose. I died earlier than him so he still had a good long life before he went to heaven. It was one grace I was allowed being a fallen angel. I could still watch over the ones I loved." He explained, pressing into Alexander's hand and kissing his palm in appreciation. "Just a bit," he agreed softly as his thoughts were preoccupied by their closeness rather than the conversation. "What would you like to know, my dear?" He asked against Alexander's lips, gathering him close and trailing a delicate hand along his spine. "You were having a good time, dear. You don't need to worry about coming home at a certain time just because I'm here. I would have loved to join you and your new friends if only the meeting wasn't so long." He reassured, pressing his lips to Alexander's brow and tucking him under his chin, letting the silence of their night settle around them.
Faybian tipped his head slightly when Alexander looked up at him, wishing he could erase the concern flashing across his fiance's face. It's not like that concern wasn't warrented though. Faybian couldn't guarentee an eternity with Alexander, not if he was going to keep up his bargain with Luce. "We do, and we will."
He chuckled softly, his voice a tender murmur in the quiet room. "I'll ask you my questions tomorrow. It's pretty late, isn't it?" Rising slowly from Faybian's arms. He placed his hands gently on either side of Faybian's face, his fingers tracing delicate patterns on his skin as he looked down into his eyes. almost as if he was searching for something in them. "What do you mean I don't have to worry? Of course, I do," he whispered, his breath warm against Faybian's cheek. "I know how lonely it feels to be by yourself, and the thought of you sitting around all day, probably bored out of your mind, just breaks my heart." He brushed a stray lock of hair away from Faybian's forehead, his touch lingering with a tenderness that spoke volumes. "I want you to have as much joy and excitement as I do." He leaned in closer, their foreheads touching, the intimate gesture deepening their connection. "I wish I could stay home tomorrow, but I have an exam. After that, though, I'm all yours." His voice was a soft promise, filled with love and dedication. He pressed a gentle kiss to Faybian's forehead, then his nose, and finally his lips, savoring the closeness.
"it is, though I'm starting to regret that nap earlier. I feel like I could stay up a few more hours with you." He murmured, pressing kisses to Alexander's hands and palm, his eyes fluttering shut at the sensation of Alexander's gentle caresses. Faybian chuckled softly, opening his eyes to watch Alexander before shaking his head slightly. "I mean exactly that, dear. You're worrying over nothing. I'm not alone in this world, not anymore. I have you to look forwards to every time you come home. I'll admit working around the apartment has become a bit routine but that's partly my fault for not leaving exploring the city more often. Your main worry when you're out having fun should be you friends." He pressed a gentle hand Alexander's cheek "believe me, any day spent with you is exciting. I've never been happier." Faybian gently tugged Alexander back towards him, peppering his features in kisses and caressing his fiance's tired body. "All mine, hm?" He purred with a knowing grin. "I love the sound of that, having you all to myself before we go and meet your friends." He murmured, finger's threading into Alexander's hair as they kissed goodnight.
(Sorry for not responding I've been playing Wuthering Waves and got sidetracked trying to get this 5-star character good news tho, I got her, and for my sanity, I'm not gonna be playing that game for some time ToT)
He nodded gently as his eyes began to close, his body growing heavy as he drifted into a deep sleep. The next morning, he woke up feeling refreshed and unusually well-rested. He woke up a bit earlier than usual, just moments before the alarm clock went off. Rubbing his eyes gently, he stared up at the ceiling, savoring the peacefulness of the morning. Sunlight bled through the blinds, casting a warm, golden hue over the room. Alexander couldn't help but reflect on how much he had changed. There was a time when everything seemed gray and meaningless to him, and relationships always seemed to fail. But now, he felt like he had a more well-rounded personality.. He sat up slowly and placed the palms of his hands on Faybian's cheeks, his touch gentle and affectionate. His raven hair fell to his right side, tickling Faybian's neck. "Wakey, wakey," he called quietly, softly kissing Faybian's forehead. "As beautiful as you look sleeping, it’s time to get up," he whispered, his voice filled with warmth and love. He glanced at the window with the closed blinds, an amused smile on his lips. "Maybe if I open the blinds and blind you with sunlight, you'll answer my calls?" he teased gently.
( no worries! Glad you're enjoying the game, from what I looked up it looks fun! Sorta like Genshin Impact? Looks gorgeous! woo!!! No harm.in being obsessed with a game,😅)
Usually Faybian slept pretty well beside Alexander, barely stirring from slumber, only needing to adjust every so often but remaining asleep. Tonight was barely any different, despite having gotten some sleep beforehand. Save for his vivid dreams. His mind waded through events, too hazy for Faybian to grasp onto, himself still human and alive, the fire that took away that life and humanity, heaven's offer and his outright decline, Lucifer's deal, Alexander with the faintest outline of wings behind him. They weren't necessarily nightmares since most were vague recollections of memories but also couldn't say he slept well either, the dreams leaving behind a wave of uncomfortable finality as morning came closer. He only managed an hour or two of genuine, peaceful sleep before he was being woken up by Alexander. He leaned into Alexander's gentle touches, lazing throwing his arm over his fiance's waist to keep him close while he attempted to wake up. "It's far too early to be making threats, sweetheart." He mumbled into Alexander's hair. "It's not time yet, the alarm didn't go off." He argued, tangling himself with Alexander so he'd stay just a few moments longer. Faybian would have never called himself a romantic or a particularly sefless individual, having never really dated or had the desire to do so beforehand but being like this with Akexander, sharing a morning together and making plans for their future, whether that be later on in the afternoon or later on in life, made him realize just of desperately he wanted to be with another person. He wanted that connection, selfish as it may seem, to have a person to come home to, to have someone he could love and be loved by. For him, Alexander was that perfect person, even if he teased about waking up during the hours where no sane person functioned normally. He pressed a kiss to Alexander's forehead and have a warm, if not tired little smile. "What I would give for the weekend to come faster, just so that I can keep you right here without anything needing your attention except for me." He sighed whistfully and properly kissed Alexander good morning before slowly starting to detangle themselves from the blankets and each other
(Yeahhhhhhhhhhhhh it is super fun but also tiring. I felt like I was losing brain cells the more I played ToT, I was like scrounging for these gems, and when I finally got her, I was broke and forgot I had to build her, so I'm in the process of doing that right now)
"It's never too early for a few threats, dear. After all, you used to make them for me all the time," he teased with a mischievous glint in his eye. Suddenly, he yelped as Faybian playfully pulled him back into the warmth of the blanket. "Te juro que eres el más lindo de la mañana," he murmured, unable to suppress a little giggle. "Well, today is Tuesday, so you need three more days until the weekend," he continued with a hint of resignation. "Unless you can fast-forward time, the only thing you can do is wait. For you, and because the alarm hasn't rung yet, I can stay a little longer…" He sighed contentedly, giving in to Faybian's embrace, feeling his frame wrap around him. "For breakfast, you should make something new," he suggested, his voice softening as sleepiness began to take over. "Like something I haven't tried before… which is most things…" His words trailed off, becoming a quiet whisper as his eyes fluttered shut. "You know what I mean. I was looking at the bakery, and they had all kinds of options, so much so that I wanted to buy everything. And yesterday's chicken was really good, hence why it's called good Chicken. I just mean, I feel like there are so many things I'm missing out on… I want to get to know the world better. I want to know my neighbors better, my professors, and my new friends." Suddenly, he sat straight up, his eyes wide with excitement. "Today feels like it's going to be so exciting!" he practically yelled. "I can't go back to sleep knowing all the people I get to talk to today!" His enthusiasm was infectious, filling the room with a vibrant energy that seemed to chase away the last remnants of sleep.
(awe no😅 wait you have to build her once you unlock her omg so much work🥲 ooh good luck!)
"Yes, used to. Now I try and reason instead of threatening you unless of course a certain someone hasn't eaten since dinner." He gave Alexander a pointed look for all the times his fiance had come home starving from class having only eaten breakfastand nothing else. He fetures gave way to a slow grin as leaned in to press kisses to Alexander's neck. "Deberias verme por la noche, adorado." He murmured, eventually pulling back just enough to relieve Alexander of any further embarrassment. "Unfortunately I cannot but I'll be patient, you're worth the wait." He smiled softly, trailing light fingertips along Alexander's spine as he sleepily rambled about breakfast. "I was debating on whether to make crepes or cinnamonbuns though they might take a bit." He replied, smiling fondly at his beloved. "You have all the time in the world to explore everything you want my love. There's no need to cram everything into one day." He reassured, lifting his arm when Alexander suddenly sat up. He assumed that meant the end of their morning cuddling. "I'll start breakfast then." He groaned softly, letting his body wake up for a few moments before pulling himself out of bed and heading to the kitchen settling on making the cinnamonbuns
(Yeahhhh thank youuuu, I was listening to One Spark by TWICE while reading your response and when I tell you I got so excited I almost squealed Faybian is so cute ToT)
"Hmm, I guess you're right." Alexander got out of bed after Faybian and gently touched his back as he left the room, a silent gesture of affection. As he dressed for the warmer weather, choosing light and breathable fabrics, he realized halfway through changing that Faybian had spoken Spanish earlier. This revelation filled him with excitement. Quickly finishing his outfit, Alexander practically ran to the kitchen. His heart raced with anticipation as he approached Faybian from behind, wrapping his arms around him in a tight embrace. "No sabía que hablabas español!" he exclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement. The thought that he could communicate with Faybian on a deeper level, using his native language, thrilled him. Even though Spanish is a common language, it felt like their secret way of connecting, a private bond that brought them even closer together. His heart swelled with joy at this newfound intimacy, grateful for the deeper connection it allowed them to share. "When did you learn? Or did you always know how to and you never told me. How come you never told me?!" He hit Faybian's shoulder playfully as he released his grasp on him.
(I'll give it a listen! And awe! I'm glad you like him, I love Alexander and the small gestures always get my heart both of them together are so cute!)
As much as Faybian would have loved to say he made cinnamon rolls from scratch, Faybian hadn't planned that far ahead. Thankfully in the modern day, someone had smartly invented Pillsbury instant pastries. Faybian spaced the premade cinnamon buns out on a sheet tray and added a bit more cinnamon and sugar, trying his best to hide the off, prepackaged taste. He slid the tray into the oven and set a timer before starting on a quick glaze and trying to think of something else to pair with a sweet breakfast. He let out a surprised laugh as Alexander tackled him from behind. "Solo un poco." He admitted sheepishly, "I'm not as fluent as I want to be, I can read and write better than I can speak but I've made it a point to learn the basics." He grinned and pressed a kiss to Alexander's head "I didn't think it was relevant until now! How come you haven't spoken Spanish until now?" He asked curiously finding vegetables and starting to chop them up to have something a bit more healthy for breakfast.
"We're still meeting your friends after class, right? and getting lunch?" He asked over his shoulder, taking a moment as always to appreciate his fiance now that he was more awake before focusing back on breakfast.
"Yeah, of course. We should be done with class around 1:30, and you can come over then," he replied, inhaling the delicious aroma of Faybian's cooking. "Well… I used to speak Spanish a lot more," he continued. "But as I got older and more distant, I didn't have many people to talk to in Spanish. So when I complain, I use small phrases in Spanish. Like that time you killed a bunch of people and made me throw up. I have to say, that was not your finest moment. Why did you do that? Were you trying to scare me away or something? Because it didn't work. If anything, it just made me feel really disgusted—not at you, but because of the smell and everything." He looked up at Faybian, realizing they had never really addressed that incident, treating it like some unspoken historical event. "Sorry, you don't have to answer that. The point is, after I locked myself in the lab, I started cursing in Spanish and ranting to myself for a while. I got so into it that I almost typed half my report in Spanish. I was in the zone but also really angry."
Faybian's gaze grew slightly distant as he kept chopping the rest of the vegetables. Thankfully he was skilled enough not to cut himself by accident. It had seemed so long ago when he had killed those people in the alleyway. People no one would miss, people already halfway to heaven or hell, begging to die already. In some twisted way, he was carrying out what heaven wanted from him. To guide souls to their ineffable end and reach salvation. In that moment, Faybian hadn't cared whether the people he was killing saw him as an angel or a demon, he just wanted to feel like his old self before Alexander had come into his life.
"I guess I was. I was trying to prove to you I wasn't someone to befriend or to sympathize with. I had lived my life however short and was now beyond human problems like feelings and college life." He reasoned vaguely, slowly setting the knife down. He breathed a small laugh and glanced over at Alexander "it's okay if you were. What I looked like wasn't pretty and what I did wasn't either. I frankly didn't care what you thought of me, or at least that's what I told myself, as long as we had a deal you couldn't get out of, you were mine and I could do whatever the hell I chose without that changing." He turned back to take out the cinnamon rolls and set them off to the side to cool. He paused in making breakfast and leaned against the counter. "It's alright dear, you've deserved an explanation for a while. I don't think about you in that way anymore, as just another one of my deals. You mean far more than that to me now and I'm trying not be like I was before." Faybian cautiously took a step towards Alexander, offering an outstretched hand "well, at the very least you managed to write an amazing report."
He sighed in relief when he turned around. Now able to see Alexander, he took his hands and listened intently to what he had to say. Faybian understood in a way because he also didn't want to change. "You and I are not so different after all." Faybian stepped closer, his movements slow and deliberate, and wrapped his arms around Alexander's neck, their height difference making the embrace slightly awkward yet intimate. Alexander jumped a little, his lips brushing Faybian's cheek in a tender kiss. "I guess I was so used to being alone that I didn't think there could be any other way to live." He breathlessly laughed, the sound tinged with both sadness and relief. "Just listening to myself say that sounds awful, and even when I started working, I was always alone. Summoning you was my last resort to feel something—a cry for help I didn't even realize then." Alexander rested his head on Faybian's chest, tracing the neckline of his shirt with delicate fingers. "Who knows, maybe because of this, you'll be redeemed and go to heaven if you die. I still don't believe in this magical bullshit, though. I believe in you and hell, but I haven't seen heaven, so how do I know it exists?" His voice softened, filled with a genuine sincerity that belied his usual cynicism. He paused, his brow furrowing slightly as he continued, "Do you still get urges like that? To kill people or take your anger out on them? It's okay if you do. I get them too, but I mean to the extent of following through with it?" He moved his head and looked up at Faybian, his eyes searching for answers in Faybian's gaze. He traced the lines of Faybian's face with his eyes, memorizing every detail and contour as if grounding himself in the moment.
Faybian pressed a kiss to Alexander's brow, lifting him slightly so he was on Faybian's feet. He gently laced one of their hands together and slipped the other securely around Alexander's waist, guiding them slowly in a waltz around the kitchen. "Despite how we started off this relationship, I'm glad we're here, like this." He murmured against Alexander's hair, leading them towards the stove top so he could briefly attend to the sauteed vegetables before focusing his attention on his fiance. "I will admit summoning me may have been a bit too far. Perhaps therapy or something else comes before summoning someone but I understand that desperation." He lovingly ran his fingers through Alexander's hair, promising softly he'd fix it in a bit. "Oh, it exists, dear. If there is a hell, there is a heaven. Though its not all sunshine and rainbows like humans like to think." He scoffed softly and shook his head, disgusted with the self-righteous ideology heaven held at such a high standard. Hell was no walk in the park but at the very least they were honest. Hell knew its residents were terrible, not incapable of changing but neither promoting self-betterment either. You could always count on Hell to give you the harsh truth and a reality check. "I don't die, at least not anymore. I'm more corporeal, I suppose. Neither a being of the living or the dead. Just a soul that ended up in Hell." He shrugged and gave a small smile even as the terms of his deal raced through his mind. "I'm the closest thing to heaven as I can get, with you as my very own angel." He led them both over to the counter, setting Alexander on the counter while he prepared breakfast, plating up a cinnamon roll on a plate along with a drizzling of icing and seperate bowl of roasted veggies. He passed the dish to Alexander while he plated breakfast for himself and gave a small shake of his head. "Not as much as before. And not as brutally. That episode I had was the last time I actively wanted to hurt anyone. Since then I've sort of filtered out those thoughts." He leaned against the counter beside Alexander and kissed dhis cheek. "I suggest not following through with those thoughts, dear. Otherwise, you'll soon end up in the same place I am and believe me, you don't want to, you don't deserve that. Try not to focus on those thoughts dear. You have a good life with a strong future ahead of you."
He nodded as they danced around the kitchen like an old married couple growing and gray. He let faybian guide him onto the counter, feeling empty as Faybian's hand left his waist. "Oh, so I'm dating a ghost. I can't wait to explain that to my friends," he chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Oh yeah, and would that be so bad? You said it yourself: Heaven isn't all sunshine and rainbows, so why should I go there? Besides…" He started swinging his legs playfully before taking the dish handed to him. "I wouldn't want to go to heaven if you weren't there. I mean, come on, you've changed. Heaven can see that, can't they?" He walked over to the table, setting his dish down before taking a seat. "I'm just saying, what good would it be if no one I know is going to be there? Sure, I have friends now, but who knows how long those friendships will last? Besides, I’ll be graduating soon and probably get a better job than I have now. My point is, I have a bright future, but if you weren't in it, I wouldn't want it." He paused, then raised his fork and pointed it at Faybian with a determined look. "AND! What if Heaven can redeem people? Look at you; you've changed. I don't think you deserve to be in Hell. And if you don't, I'll go to hell with you. I mean, come on…" He took the fork and stuck it into one of the cinnamon buns, taking a bite. "It can't be that bad." He smiled as he chewed, his eyes never leaving Faybian's. "You're worth it. Every single bit of it."
Faybian rolled his eyes playfully "No, you're not dating a ghost." He shook his head and pressed a gentle hand to Alexander's cheek, tilting his head up slightly for his attention. "You're marrying a former demon lord of hell. Doesn't that sound far more interesting?" He dipped in for a kiss, tasting the sugar and cinnamon from the cinnamon roll on his fiance's lips. "As far as you're friends are concerned I'm human and all that should matter is that I love you, deep;y and without condition." He smiled softly, kissing Alexander's cheek before following Aleander to the dining room table. "You're right, I did say that. But that doesn't mean Hell should be the end goal." His smile faltered but he tried to play it off by eating a piece of the cinnamon roll. "Heaven's not big on change. You could become the best person on Earth and all Heaven will see is a tail and horns. Besides, my situation was a bit different than most sinners." He mumbled, brows furrowing. He didn't like the idea of Alexander brushing off his current life just to look forward to an afterlife, one that Faybian wouldn't be a part of. He reached over and laced their hands together. "You have a life, Alexander. A really good one, one I would have jumped at the chance to have when I was still alive. Do not throw it aside just the possibility of an afterlife with me. I-" he paused, his throat closing slightly per his contract conditions. "I can't guarantee we'll end up together in the afterlife." If anything, Faybian had guaranteed they would never be together with the deal he had struck with Luce but Faybian couldn't admit that yet to his fiance. He took a deep breath and gave his best smile, standing with his half-eaten breakfast, suddenly not hungry anymore. "Believe it or not, my dear. Hell isn't a place most people willingly go to." He glanced away and gave a brief smile as ruffled Alexander's hair. "And I would choose you over heaven every time, dear." He murmured, pressing a kiss to his head before starting the dishes, needing to clear his mind for a moment.
Alexander's eyes widened as he realized he had hit a sore spot. "You're right, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that. All I meant was…" He got up from his chair and gently touched Faybian's shoulder. "I would go to hell and back with you if I could. I didn't mean to say I would throw my life away because what good would that do? That means my time with you would be cut short. I don't want that. I know you can't guarantee that we won't be together in the afterlife, but you can't guarantee that we won't, so who knows." He ducked under Faybian's arms and wrapped his own around Faybian's neck, pulling him into a comforting embrace. "Sorry, I made you think about this stuff. I guess I'm curious in the morning, and I still don't know how this whole heaven, hell, and demon thing works. I want to know how you work, you know." Alexander's voice softened, filled with earnestness. "I just want to understand you better. Maybe then, this whole mess will make a bit more sense. And maybe we'll find a way to make it work, no matter what happens." His eyes searched Faybian's face for any sign of reassurance, hoping his words had eased some of the tension between them. "Now kiss me before I leave? I will be taking a cinnamon roll with me."
Faybian took a deep breath, relief washing over him as his airway opened to normal again, the feeling of cool rushing water over his hands grounding him to the present. He was here with Alexander, that's all that could matter to him right now. He'd figure things out with Luce and make sure Alexander was safe. After all, he didn't become a demon lord or out of nothing, Faybian had to fight for what he had wanted all his afterlife. He would fight for Alexander just as hard. He glanced over his shoulder at felt Alexander touch his shoulder, a small smile appearing on his face. "I suppose that's true. You have nothing to apologize for, doll. You're adorably curious. I'm honestly impressed you're taking all this in so well." He chuckled, lifting his arm for a moment before scooping Alexander up and setting him back on the counter, but instead of going back to doing dishes, Faybian stayed with Alexander, burying his face against his fiance's hair and trailing a gentle hand along his back. "It's okay, Alexander, really. It's going to take a bit, opening up to anyone has never been something I've been willing to do. I'm glad it can be with you. Someone I love and care for very much." he smiled softly, dipping down to press a kiss on Alexander's neck. "all I ask is for a bit of patience, my love." He tilted his head back just far enough and gave Alexander a loving smile, taking in his features. He gently cupped his fiance's cheek and pressed their brows together for a moment. "But of course, my dear," he murmured, leaning in and brushing his lips against Alexander's, slow and soft at first but then slowly adding pressure. His hand migrated into Alexander's hair greedily tugging him closer to his body. "There's no way I'm convincing you to take a sick day and stay here, hm?" He slowly let go of his fiance and nodded already finding tupperware to pack Alexander a few of the rolls. "For your friends as well."
