Meags, tell me something. What’re Idia and Kalim’s ways of comforting each other when one of them gets upset? Are there any secret tricks they’ve learned about each other to bring the smiles back?
Hi Blue! I'm glad you asked!!!! I've actually explored a couple different things, and I like to try working through different methods in my writing.
When Idia's upset, I think there are a couple ways to comfort him. If Kalim can get the conversation to a topic of interest that Idia is passionate about, that might be an effective distraction for things that are temporary disturbances (such as feeling embarrassed about how others perceived him that day, stressing over a level he's struggling to beat on a game, worrying about social interactions, etc). Getting Idia to light up and talk about things he enjoys is one of Kalim's favourite things to do, and once Idia starts talking about what he loves, it's so easy for Kalim to sit and listen. Words of praise and affirmation help too, but he has to be careful not to praise Idia too much, or Idia will swing from depressed to cocky (and not really in a good way).
If he's having a dull day, something that will cheer him up immediately is going to a shelter and snuggling all the cats and kittens. Idia loves cats. He always wants to pet them. So, sometimes, when he notices Idia is stuck in a little rut, Kalim will plan a date where they go to a shelter or a cat cafe and snuggle all the kitties together. They always end up leaving with the biggest smiles on both their faces.
But, when it's big things, like regret over what happened to Ortho or feeling completely down on himself and his own personality, distraction isn't the answer. Neither is talking (it takes Kalim a little bit to figure this out initially). Idia tends to withdraw and he won't feel up for conversation. But Kalim can't just let him mope with his headphones and music on all day, alone. So, he comes to visit his boyfriend and he snuggles up to him on the bed. Sure, Kalim may fall asleep like that, and Idia may be left awake with his boyfriend cuddling him, but it's the warmth of Kalim's body, the solid weight that says "I'm here and I'm not leaving you", the closeness of someone without the pressure to be social...those are the things that comfort Idia in that moment.
Kalim doesn't express sadness very often. He's generally very cheerful. But that doesn't mean he doesn't also need comfort at times. Initially, Idia is clumsy at it and he feels awkward. He doesn't quite hit the mark every single time, but honestly even the fact that he's trying makes Kalim feel a little better. Idia is known to be a bit of a recluse, but it's been shown again and again that he can - and WILL - come out of his comfort bubble for the people he cares about. That will extend to Kalim. I think when Kalim is feeling a bit down, or insecure, Idia would start with little things, like having a date night, gaming together, getting snacks and just hanging out. For little things, like being worried over grades or being lonely, that will definitely help Kalim. Kalim loves people and he hates eating alone. Idia would definitely step up with little one-on-one dates. And he would, in an effort to make Kalim feel really special, try to find some events the other would like to go to and do one or two more public dates. Kalim is very aware how introverted Idia is, so all the effort put in means so much to him and makes him feel over the moon with joy.
When it comes to the heavier stuff, like Kalim's conflicts with Jamil, or his own internal worries of being incapable of doing things on his own, that's where Idia finds it a bit more challenging. Kalim needs talking, not just distraction and affection. He wants to talk about his feelings and he wants to be able to sit and just feel. This is not Idia's strong suit, not in a positive way. He's used to brooding, sure, but he's not used to talking things out and turning over and exploring the uncomfortable side of things. But he tries. At first, he's awkward as hell and he stumbles a lot on his words as he tries to talk with Kalim and get Kalim to confide in him, show he's listening to Kalim and provide support. Eventually, though, he realizes he can visualize it like a video game. Of course, he doesn't reduce his boyfriend to strats or dialogue lines or anything like that, but when he pays attention to the way Kalim talks and tries to view what he's saying through the lens of an MC trying to comfort a friend or love interest, the little bit of distancing himself from the situation lets him feel more confident in understanding and formulating a reply. It takes the nerves out of the equation and allows him to focus completely on Kalim.
Those are my thoughts! Thank you so much for asking, I really enjoyed answering this 💜💜💜
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twenty questions
Author: itsumoghoul
Rating/Warning: Teen and up audiences, referenced ED, referenced ab*se
Chapter Count: 1/1
Description: Being vulnerable was never one of Eddie Munson's strengths, and neither was Chrissy Cunningham's.
"What's your worst memory?"
Tags: Alternate Universe- Fix it, Chrissy lives, Eddie lives, mutual pining, comforting each other, Chrissy POV, one-shot, Status: Completed
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https://baronessblixen.tumblr.com/post/683499275395678208/hc-little-women-is-one-of-scullys-favorite-book
Nooo poor Mulder! Scully comforted him in her caring arms after 🥲
Of course she did 🥰
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Always and Forever, Deku
Ever since the war ended, Izuku has been having recurring nightmares. When he wakes up in a cold sweat from a nightmare about Katsuki’s almost death, he starts to panic.
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Or, a hurt/comfort fic where they both comfort each other in their own ways after a nightmare
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