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versadies · 2 years

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CHAPTER NINE || IVY

SYPNOSIS (of chapter). in which secrets are now out of the light as the other side of one's story is now told.

SYPNOSIS (of series). breaking up with your first love was heartbreaking, but not as heartbreaking as getting invited to his wedding after years of not seeing him. that is, until things seem to be easier when you encounter a certain guest, who could end up being more than just a blooming friend to you.

CHARACTERS. kamisato ayato, diluc ragnvindr (w/ gn!reader)

CONTENT. angst/no-fluff, arranged marriage, minor character deaths, mentions of murder, mentions of corruption, mentions of car accident, lots of sadness but its from ayato so enjoy seeing him suffer <3

PENPALS. @scaraslover @saving-for-xiao @dawgimsohot @kazu-topia @chiruru @aqualesha @renamichii @mrkamisato @shenhesl0ver @serami00 @serenareiss @hiqhkey @emperatris-rinaka @bystander36 @irisxiel @ladycoleigh @034ven @dear-dairiess @owozi8 @hadesaedes @chiro-chiro-kun @hersscherofyatta @mariusvonhangme @yuzuricebun @hoshikistarlette @solaaresque @crowbird @lordbugs @flowersforayato @headintheclouddd @estelwrld @giyusimpsassemble @irethepotatosblog @moonlightaangel @alice0blog @shotosbrainrot @sniffoat @chihawari @mxsomn @kuni-kuzushii @jiminscarmex @mitsukii14 @nejibot @ylimeprive @sachispet @loreleis-world @sn-owo @starforecasts @someonetookmynamelmao @ceylestia @koshiisu @ymikkos @reallysporadicarcade @elychee @rion-s @denkineptune @franini @sophisticatedleslie @thedivinepriestress @smashsubs @httpmitsuya @bl6o6dy @cottonkendi (come visit this post / send an ask if you’d like to be tagged !)

WORD COUNT. 9.3k words

LINKS. EVERMORE MASTERLIST \ MAIN MASTERLIST \ EVERMORE SURVEY (come visit if you'd like to ask questions that i'll answer by the time this series ends !)

POST-SCRIPT. at last we’ve reached the last chapter before the wedding chapter as well as the last chapter of you and ayato !! chapter 10 will be a sweet beginning that’ll now revolve around you and diluc until the end of this series ! this was honestly a tough chapter to write but enjoy ig 😭😭😭

make sure to read the full thing before looking at reblogs and replies to prevent yourself from getting spoiled !!

PREVIOUS || NEXT

4 YEARS AGO, SPRING.

One of the things Ayato loves about you is how there’s no one he can imagine spending the rest of his life with but you.

You’re not only his lover, but his person. Someone who can understand him, tolerate him, comfort him, love him, see him for who he is without intentions of taking advantage of his family’s name and business.

Despite the differences you both have, you two managed to make things work together as a couple. Despite the fights you both have, you two managed to fix it under communication and clearing up everything. Despite everything, the both of you are still here together.

Because of you, Ayato understands why people love movies so much. Because of you, Ayato understands why people love playing games with friends rather than studying all day and preparing for the future. Because of you, Ayato understands why people love.

Because of you, Ayato understands himself more than before.

So who could blame him for wanting to spend his future with someone who made him happier than anyone can?

Sure, you may be like everyone else, but there’s no one else who could make him feel so in love but you.

Just seeing you sleeping beside him on days when he’d sleep over at your dorm makes him want to wake up beside you everyday. Just seeing you laughing and smiling at his words while walking with him to the university or to the dormitory makes him want to go wherever you go. Just seeing you being embarrassed whenever you can’t find the answer to a homework makes him want to go through all your obstacles in life with you.

Just seeing you looking at him the way he looks at you makes him want to love you again and again.

Just seeing you, he couldn’t imagine his life to turn out like this.

One of the things that Ayato feels burdened with about the Yashiro Company is its past.

It’s long forgotten for how long ago it was, but it will remain haunting to those who are aware of it and will never be at peace with the information they’re burdened with.

Those include his great-grandfather, grandfather, father, perhaps the current CEOs of the two other businesses that are a part of the tri-business, and unfortunately Ayato himself.

He was shocked when his father told him back then that the Yashiro Company was involved with the fall of the Kaedehara Company, a well-known company in the past that was respected by everyone until an incident occurred.

The Shogun Company, now called Tenryou Company, is the biggest business known in Inazuma back then, so when they accused the Kaedehara Company for fraud, everything went down for the Kaedehara family.

The CEO of the Tenryou Company caught Kaedehara Yoshinori, the CEO of Kaedehara Company back then, tampering with important documents red-handed, and despite the protests and excuses, Yoshinori was faced with the court trial and the dire consequences.

Not only did the Kaedehara Company face bankruptcy, they also faced backlash by the media for doing such a thing, leading Yoshinori and the Kaedehara family to go into hiding for good until they’ve been long forgotten many years later.

However, there was one thing everyone didn’t know about.

There were two more businesses that were involved in the incident. One is the Hiiragi Company – who was actually the one behind the fraud but managed to frame Yoshinori for it – and the Yashiro Company – who was the reason why Yoshinori was involved with the scene in the first place.

Ayato’s great grandfather didn’t mean to let this happen. All he wanted was for Yoshinori to obtain the tampered documents while he was distracting the CEO of Shogun Company, only for the CEO to catch Yoshinori at a bad time and ruin the Kaedehara business for good.

As much as Ayato felt saddened from the tragedy of the Kaedehara family, he couldn’t help but resent it so much. After all–

It was the main reason why he ended up marrying the person he doesn’t love.

Ayato found out one night, he went back home from your dormitory to see Hiiragi’s current CEO, Hiiragi Shinsuke, having a quiet conversation with his parents as they failed to notice Ayato hiding nearby listening to it.

In all honesty, Ayato never liked the Hiiragi Company’s CEO. There was always something about him that made the young man feel… uneasy.

At this moment, the uneasiness grew ten times more.

“...Mr. Hiiragi, what’s the meaning of this?” Ayato’s father asks, a frown is evident on his face.

The man across the table smiles in response, as if he didn’t ask the most absurd thing.

“I’m offering you a chance, Mr. Kamisato.” Shinsuke Hiiragi explains. “You can let your son marry my daughter and I’ll destroy all evidences regarding your… grandfather being involved with the infamous Kaedehara incident as well as the evidence that your father’s involved with the car accident that the heir of one of Tenryou Company’s branches, Kujou Kamaji, died in.”

Ayato’s eyes widen, his breath hitches.

“But… Mr. Hiiragi,” Ayato’s father hesitates for a moment, “I would have agreed on this arrangement had it not been the fact that my son is with another. I simply cannot accept that I have to force my son to leave the person he loves–!”

“If you refuse my offer, then I have no choice but to release all the evidence, Mr. Kamisato.” Shinsuke interrupts in a taunting manner. “Would you rather see your ancestors’ entire work into ruins and let your family face backlash from the media, or would you rather let your company continue its successful years without any worries and burdens?”

The young man watches as his parents look at each other in deep thought. It’s obvious they didn’t want to sacrifice their son, but neither did they want to face cruel consequences that their children will face.

However, it’s also obvious which option is the best.

Which is why Ayato walks away from the dining area without listening to another word from the three, his heart heavy and aching on the thought of what happens next.

He couldn’t sleep that night.

He couldn’t stop thinking about every single possible way he could do to prevent this, and all of them led to one thing.

Even if Ayato did find a way to reject Shinsuke without the dire consequences, what if the cruel CEO decided to hurt you to make him say yes to the marriage?

Ayato couldn’t let that happen.

If breaking up with you and marrying someone he doesn’t love is the only way to protect both you and his family from harm, then so be it.

Knowing you, you’d definitely try to find a way to do something about Shinsuke, and Ayato certainly cannot let you do it – not when Shinsuke is perhaps one of the most dangerous person who won’t hesitate to kill you.

There's no doubt that the Hiiragi family was also the one behind the death of Kujou Kamaji.

If there’s one thing that’s strange about the car accident, it was the fact that the cause of it was Kamaji being seen falling unconscious while driving before hitting another car and causing an explosion, leading the Tenryou Company and the police to investigate what made the passing heir to do such a thing, only to find nothing that could help them.

It’s obvious that Shinsuke would be the first person who’d be out for Kamaji’s head given that he’s the one marrying his daughter, something the CEO disapproves due to how Shinsuke isn’t fond of the Kujou family.

However, what most people didn’t know about the infamous accident was how Ayato’s grandfather is the last person Kamaji talked to before his death.

His grandfather was seen by the CCTVs of the Yashiro building talking to Kamaji and led the younger man to run away to his car before the accident occurred, leading the old man to delete the CCTV tapes in fear of people thinking that he was possibly behind the accident. This soon became one of the Kamisato family’s biggest secrets as it was a risk to the business’s reputation.

Knowing this fact, Shinsuke probably got his hands on the tapes and will use it as one of the pieces of evidence that the Kamisato family was involved with the death of Kamaji despite it being far from the truth.

It didn’t matter to Shinsuke it seems, not when the CEO can forge all of the evidence with the help of whoever has the Hiiragi’s family’s back and make it look as if the Kamisato family was behind all of it.

Knowing this, the heir knows Shinsuke won’t hesitate to go after you if he could get away from the two incidents.

Ayato’s heart felt heavy from the thought of what he’s going to do.

Just thinking about not being able to wake up beside you everyday makes him feel hopeless. Just thinking about not being able to be there for you when you cry or be upset over something makes him feel as if he’s separated from you by a wall made of bedrocks. Just thinking about you looking at him as if he’s the worst person to live on Earth makes him feel suffocated.

Just thinking about not being with you is enough for him to feel like he’s nothing.

The only way to keep you safe is by making you avoid him, so he has no choice but to… but to…

“No, I can’t hesitate right now.” He whispered to himself, putting his hands on the sides of his head in frustration. I have to do this for my family… For Ayaka. He thought to himself, closing his eyes shut with a shaky sigh.

Even if he has to make himself become someone you despise with all your heart, even if he has to force himself to lose the future he dreamt of that has you, even when his body feels like it's on fire as his heart weighs as much as the burdens on his shoulders at the thought of not being able to be the person you’ll spend with for the rest of your lives, even when he doesn’t to go back to his bland life before he met you, he knows he has no choice.

As the future heir of the Yashiro Company, he must choose the best choice for everyone.

By the end of the night, Ayato had made up his mind.

In order to make the breakup look sincere to you, he must avoid you for weeks.

He remembers watching romance movies to learn and understand how he can possibly win your heart, but he also learned how he can possibly break your heart.

Now that he thinks about it, this can be a practice for the both of you to live without the other.

He goes back to riding his family’s car towards the university instead of walking with you there, trying to focus on anything that won’t make him regret and run off to where you are (he doesn’t notice the way Ayaka looks at him in concern at the sight of her brother clenching his hands as if he’s holding himself back from something).

He goes back to being holed up in his bedroom studying instead of running off to Komore Cafe to study with you, trying to be busy to stop himself from thinking about you and wonder how you are (he doesn’t notice how his desperate attempts never work. Not until he finds himself staring at the wallpaper of his phone that has you in it).

He goes back to spending time with the Student Council for the rest of the day instead of spending time with you in the university, trying to distance himself from you in order to get used to what the rest of his life will be (he doesn’t notice how Student Council officers, particularly the president and the vice president, wonder what made him look as if he’s been through hell with those now dull eyes of his).

He goes back to being his old self before he met you.

All of this with an excuse of simply “forgetting” about your plans and being too busy to be able to be with you (when he’s always ready to drop everything for you).

The amount of time he had isn’t enough to prepare him for this moment.

By the time he deems it’s time to tell you, you both agreed to meet up with each other in the cafe after not seeing you for the past weeks. It felt like he hadn't seen you for years if he had to be honest.

His mind instantly went numb when he entered the doors of the cafe that his best friend owns, his heart weighing him down from what’s about to happen.

“Ayato! You came!” You spoke up excitedly when you spotted your lover, standing up from your seat and rushing towards him for a hug.

He finds himself spreading his arms wide, knowing that this will be the last time he’ll ever hug you like this.

He closes his eyes shut the moment he feels your arms wrapped around him, shoulders relaxed from your familiar scent and warmth that you have whenever you hug him, clinging into you closer to him as he cherishes the hug.

Ayato had to stop himself from hugging you again the moment you let go of him.

“Come, I already asked Thoma to order the usual. I need your help with a certain topic that I think you might know about.” You explained, holding your lover’s hand as you drag him towards the table you always go to.

He’ll just indulge himself first before letting go.

Just once, and he’ll do it.

…

He can’t do it.

Why can’t he say it?

Ayato was silent the whole time for the past hour, something he thinks you don’t notice since you’re too distracted by your homework that he helped you with. He couldn’t find the words to end the relationship he loved and devoted himself to for the past years, not when he feels so content from just being here with you.

It was only until you’re almost done answering your last homework when he finally spoke up.

“I cannot do this anymore, ( Name ).” He said suddenly, looking up at you from his drink after staring for a concerning amount of time. “Let’s… break up.”

This is it.

He sees the way you stopped moving your pen from his words, and it felt as though the world had gone quiet from how silent the both of you are.

“...You’re kidding… right?” You asked, looking up from your homework to look at your boyfriend with wide eyes. “Surely.. You’re just doing this to make me pay attention to you, right?” You let out a light chuckle, hoping to the gods above that your assumption is correct.

He couldn’t say it. Not when his mind is flooded with dread, heartache, and misery.

Regardless, it was enough for you to stop chuckling, your nervous smile slowly disappearing from your face. “...You’re not kidding?”

Ayato nodded with an apologetic look on his face, trying to hold himself back from taking everything back and lying that all of this is a prank. “You know me well lo– ( Name ). I apologize for the sudden… proposal.”

No. This isn’t a proposal. This is him breaking off the one thing that made him feel complete and he can’t do anything to stop himself for the sake of his family. You drop your pen slowly. “What… Wait, I don’t understand. What went wrong?”

He lets out a shaky breath, something you mistaken as a soft sigh, and he stares back at your upset eyes. “Nothing went wrong ( Name ). It’s not you.”

It’s me. I’m the one who’s wrong. I need to do this to keep you and everyone safe. He thought to himself.

“Then what is it?” You asked in a hurt tone.

The man pauses for a moment. The next thing he’ll say will forever be engraved in his mind, knowing that it’s the biggest lie he had ever told in his entire life.

He inhales deeply and responds to your question. “Unfortunately I’ve… fallen out of love with you.”

Ayato feels as if his heart went on a flatline from those words, he couldn’t breathe properly as he has the urge to curl up in misery that he had to lose you this way. He just needs to get away from you for good, tell his parents that he has broken up with you, and pray that Shinsuke won’t go after you.

He had never expected for this to end either.

“How long, Ayato–”

“I truly apologize, ( Name ).” Ayato said as he started to pack his items on the table, trying to look as unfazed as possible. “I.. I know this might be too cruel of me to say this but.. I’d like you to stop hanging out with me anymore.” He adds.

You stayed silent, something that made him want to kneel down in front of you and reassure you that everything will turn out okay for you in the end, knowing fully well that this will be a rough time for you and him.

He can’t answer your question. Not when all of this isn’t even true in the first place.

“It was nice knowing you, ( Name ).”

He hopes that this will be the last time he’ll see you, for he isn’t sure if he’ll be able to hold himself back from being in your arms the next time you and him meet again.

As he continues to walk away from the cafe, he sends a text to his driver that he’s ready to go, not noticing how you’re walking towards him until he hears you.

“Ayato, please! Just tell me what went wrong!” You exclaimed loudly as you followed your now ex boyfriend down the streets, ignoring how some people passing by looked at your direction strangely.

“Don’t bother following me, ( Name ).” Ayato spoke, glancing at your direction with a warning look on his face as he continued to walk. For the sake of you, please don’t come after me. He thought.

He stops his tracks when you feel him tugging his clothes, not wanting to drag you and accidentally hurt you from walking with you holding onto him.

“Please Ayato, I deserve to know what made you no longer love me!” You begged in a desperate tone.

He sighs in defeat, his shoulders slumps.

Ayato turns around in your direction, a dull look plastered on his face. “Is it really necessary to have a reason why? I suddenly just don’t. Don’t make this harder for yourself than it is for me.” He lied. He still loves you, there’s nothing that will make him feel otherwise.

“Of course it’s necessary! You can’t just not love me anymore–”

“And yet here we are.”

Words die instantly in your throat and you stare at him in bewilderment, your hand still holds onto his clothing. He wants to punch himself for making you hurt.

“...Do you really not love me anymore?”

He stares at your eyes, thinking of what to say before letting out a breath that he didn’t know he was holding.

“Would you believe me if I said yes?”

Your breath hitches.

Your long silence was enough for Ayato to completely turn around and continue walking towards the bus stop, leaving you standing there dumbfounded and in disbelief. If only you knew how much he wanted to run to you and make it up to you, how desperate he is to find a way to not let the situation end like this,

He couldn’t.

For someone who doesn’t regret his choices, this is perhaps Ayato’s first time regretting a decision.

What can he do about it? Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

By the time he comes home, he looks at his parents with a sad smile on his face.

“Mother, father,” He called them, slowly dropping his bag from his shoulder. “I have.. News for you.”

From the way he looks, his parents immediately became concerned for what he has to say. “...What is it, Ayato?” His father asks. The three didn’t notice how a certain person was somewhere nearby listening to the conversation in curiosity and confusion.

“I know about… Mr. Hiiragi’s offer and the consequences. So I decided to break up with ( Name ).” Ayato explains, unfazed by the sounds of his mother letting out a shocked gasp as his father stares at him in disbelief.

“Ayato you what…?”

“It’s alright. I know this is for the best of our family.” Ayato reassures them, walking towards the hallway nearby. “You may call Mr. Hiiragi about the news and I’ll listen to what he has in mind about the arranged marriage. I’ll be in my room for the rest of the day, I don’t think I have the appetite to ea–”

Suddenly, he felt warm arms wrapped around him.

“Ayato…” Ayato realizes his mother is the one who’s hugging him in such a vulnerable matter. “I’m so sorry you had to go through this.. I wish there’s a way for you to not push ( Name ) away, you deserve to be with them so much and I can’t believe you had to do this for us–!”

“Mother, please.. Don’t cry..” The heir spoke softly, trying not to show his devastation. “I’ll be fine. ( Name ) will be fine too.”

“We.. have to make up a lie that we disapprove of ( Name ) due to the fact that they’re not like us.” Ayato’s father spoke. “It will give those who know about it all the more believable reasons why you’ve broken up with them.”

Hearing that made Ayato’s heart sink even further. “...I understand.”

It took a long while before Ayato is finally allowed to go to his room after a long conversation between him and his parents, who both never fail to remind him that they’re sorry for him to experience this.

As soon as he closed the door shut behind him, Ayato finally broke his facade. The rest of the day was filled with him being devastated at losing the only person he loves, his heart aching nonstop from the heartbreak he endured after breaking things off with you.

“I’m sorry ( Name ), I’m so sorry my love.” He whispered, not noticing how his bedroom door was opened slightly by a certain person he holds dear, whose heart breaks at the sight of her dear brother being miserable for the first time all because of a sacrifice.

That day was the day Ayato died, all that was left was what remained: the heir of Yashiro Company.

And the day after his death was just as painful as yesterday.

Even when he broke your heart and left, you still come up to him to try and ask him why on Earth he broke up with you, only for him to push you away and avoid you despite wanting nothing more than to tell you. It hurts to try and get used to ignoring you instead of letting you come to his arms every time you come up to him.

It’s for the best. He’d rather tell you years later than tell you when you’re in potential danger now.

It’s ironic how he’s experiencing miscommunication when it’s his least favorite thing in romance movies.

By the time you stopped, he could only hope that you understood that some things can’t be out in the open.

Until he finds out that you’re now avoiding everyone.

It’s a habit of his to check a certain street that his car passes by to see you, so when he couldn’t see a sight of you for the next few days, he was confused (and worried). Not to mention how whenever he spots your friend group, you were never there with them at all.

When he discovered that you’ve stopped hanging out with your friends for “projects” from Thoma, he felt even more worried.

Why are you going through your heartbreak alone?

Ayato couldn’t sleep well after finding that out – scratch that, he wasn’t able to sleep well at all ever since he found out about the damn arranged marriage. All he could think about is your well-being and whatever on Earth you’re doing.

He wonders how you’re going through your heartbreak, if you’re not beating yourself up thinking that it’s your fault he left, if you’re blaming yourself for the breakup, and so many more thoughts that just breaks his heart further.

It frustrated him to no end that he can’t do anything about it, not when he has to avoid you in the first place. The only thing he could do at this moment is to just hope you’re not pushing yourself too far.

Sometimes, his mind trails off to what could’ve been if you and him weren’t together.

If he hadn’t fallen in love with you, then you would’ve been happier without any worries besides your assignments instead of suffering from his mistake alone. If he hadn’t fallen in love with you, his life would’ve still been as bland and busy as ever and accept the arranged marriage without regrets. If he hadn’t fallen in love with you, then he wouldn’t have experienced what it’s like to love and to be the so-called mischievous and playful Ayato that you grew to love.

He knew he didn’t deserve someone like you, who’s better off with someone who doesn’t have a secretive family past, someone who doesn’t have the chance of getting forced to an arranged marriage, someone who would never break your heart even if the circumstances are dire.

You’re better off with someone like Thoma.

Ayato doesn’t want to admit it, but he’s quite envious of his best friend. Not only does Thoma know you since you were kids, but he has always been one of the first people you’d go to for advice and comfort should Ayato be unavailable to do that for you. Unlike him, Thoma’s never as busy as he is and, if he dare say, knows your interests more than Ayato does.

Unlike him, Thoma would never give up on your relationship.

Which is why if there’s a possibility that you’ll move on and fall in love with someone else, then he wouldn’t mind if the person is Thoma, who would surely treat you well.

“Kamisato.” One of Ayato’s security guards knocks at his bedroom door, causing the man to wake up from his thoughts.

Ah right, he has things to tend to.

“You may come in.” Ayato spoke up, turning around to see the door opening. “I’d like you to do a favor for me while I’m off tending to my studies.”

“What would you like me to do, sir?”

“You’re aware of the dormitory of my university, yes?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Then… Could you visit there and pick my items in my… friend’s dorm, perhaps?”

Before the security guard could reply, someone else suddenly knocks on the door, causing Ayato to look at his door in confusion.

“Brother,” Ayaka’s voice is heard from the other side of the door, “may I come in?”

His shoulders relaxed knowing that it’s simply his dear sibling. “You may, what brings you here?”

Ayaka shyly opens the door, smiling apologetically. “I uh… I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation and… I’d like to pick your items from your friend’s dorm if that’s alright.”

His eyes widened in surprise. “Are… Are you sure, Ayaka? What made you want to come visit the dormitory?”

“I’m actually planning on visiting there for my friend, Yoimiya. I wouldn’t mind picking the items up for you while I’m at it.” She explains. “Is it alright, brother?”

Ayato thinks about it for a while. Is it really a good choice to let Ayaka come visit your dorm?

As though the younger woman could read his mind, she instantly adds, “If I may be blunt.. I think ( Name ) wouldn’t mind seeing a familiar face by their door. I’m sure they wouldn’t mind seeing me.”

“How did you know it’s ( Name ) you’re going to?”

“...Their dorm is the only dorm you visit, is it not..?”

“...”

Ayato couldn’t help but smile. “Alright, fine, I see no harm in letting you visit ( Name ) for my items. Thank you for offering, Ayaka.”

The woman nods in acknowledgement with a smile before she looks at the security guard and gestures to him to be dismissed, who didn’t hesitate to leave the room seeing how he’s no longer needed.

“I shall leave as well, thank you for letting me do this, brother.”

By the time Ayaka comes home, it’s already dinner, and Ayato instantly notices the relieved look on Ayaka’s face.

He couldn’t help but be curious if something good had happened between his sister and ex lover.

“...How are they…?” Ayato asks.

The woman stays silent for a moment, looking down at the box that contains Ayato’s items and gifts he gifted for you in deep thought.

She then smiles gently. “They’re better than before to be honest.”

Those words were enough to make him feel relaxed.

“That’s good.. Let me pick that up for you, I’ll take it to my room while you go to the dining room and eat.”

Ayaka nods in response, lending her sibling the box. “I will wait for you there then.”

As Ayato starts walking towards his room, he looks down at the box to see the items that were once in your dormitory that he loves to visit.

Ah, so many memories. It’s as if the man is going down the memory lane.

He could recall every single joyful moments the items – especially the gifts he gotten for you – brought, like the time when he won a game booth during a school event and got you the prize you wanted, the time when you both made bracelets to match one another, the time when he made an exceptional origami that he gifted to you, the time when you both celebrated your one-year relationship anniversary in Komore’s Cafe, and surprisingly, the time when you both confessed your feelings to one another.

Unfortunately, just like how he deals with the memories he has with you, he has no idea what to do with his items. He couldn’t throw it all away, nor can he just simply ignore it.

Perhaps.. It wouldn’t hurt to display these in his room, where he’s the only one who would stare at it as he remembers the value it holds in his closed heart alone until the day comes when time finally follows his memories and precious things.

Just thinking about the memories made Ayato realize that even when he has a future spouse to marry, he will never be able to experience the things in a way he did with you, and will never feel whole again.

It didn’t take long before Ayato eventually met his future spouse.

Shinsuke was more than ecstatic when he heard news that Ayato’s now single and accepted his offer of the arranged marriage, causing the CEO to instantly come to visit the Kamisato Estate a few days later to discuss certain things about his daughter, Hiiragi Chisato.

The first thing Ayato needs to do is to win his daughter’s heart, then when Chisato wishes so, the CEO will start the wedding arrangements immediately, all the while Ayato wonders what the woman he’s going to marry is like.

Ayato imagined Chisato to be some cruel and vicious woman who probably saw him in those parties and suggested the marriage to her father, and he felt even more miserable from just thinking about the fact that he’d possibly marry a terrible person and have Shinsuke, a potential murderer and a cruel man overall, as his father-in-law.

But his thoughts instantly changed when he saw her by the balcony.

Shinsuke emphasized the fact that Ayato must attend the upcoming party that both Hiiragi family and Kamisato family would be attending, wanting the man to come up to his daughter and get to know one another, so the blue-haired man had no choice but to attend the party despite being someone who prefers to not be in public’s eye.

Hiiragi Chisato was a lonely soul, if he had to put it. She didn’t look like someone who’d plan evil doings nor someone who’d be the daughter of some cruel man. She just looks like a woman who longs for something in her life.

He knows not to judge a book by its cover, but sometimes, a cover has to be interesting enough to make a person be curious and look at what's inside.

So he finds himself heading over to her, already knowing what to say in his head.

“And what brings such a lovely lady such as you being so lonely for an exquisite party, if I may ask?” Ayato spoke smoothly, watching as the woman looked at him in surprise.

Chisato couldn’t bring herself to look him in the eyes, her words stumbling. “I-I uhm.. I just feel a bit overwhelmed from so many people attending here. I thought it would be best if I took a breath of fresh air.” She explains, her fingers fidgeting.

A fake small chuckle comes out from his mouth, though his shoulders slightly untenses from how nice the woman seems to be. “That I can understand. Not to mention how I have to make some small talk with half of the attendees, which bore me a lot.” He comments, leaning against the railway and looks at the view in front of the two lonely souls. “Your name is Hiiragi Chisato, correct?”

She lets out a small squeak. “You… You know my name?”

“I know everyone’s names at the party.” He spoke. “My name is Kamisato Ayato, I am delighted to make an acquaintance, Miss Hiiragi.”

“O-Oh you don’t have to.. Call me that!” She said immediately. “You can just call me Chisato, Mr. Kamisato.”

Ayato pauses for a moment from her words, taken back from how she’s so casual around him.

A small smile appears on his face. “If that’s the case, then you may call me Ayato, Chisato.”

That night, the both of them talked about a few things about themselves, be it what they do in their free time, their favorite food, favorite events that are held every year, and so on and so forth. If it weren’t for the marriage, the blue-haired man would’ve been happy that he made friends with someone who’ll surely be willing to be a good help to the Yashiro business in the future.

Eventually, the two of them started talking about the arranged marriage.

When Ayato brought it up when the opportunity arose, he was surprised to see how the look on Chisato’s face was anything but excitement.

If their genuine conversation earlier wasn’t enough to convince Ayato that she didn’t want this marriage either, then it’s the way she looks right now that does the trick.

“...I’m not sure what to feel about this marriage,” Chisato spoke honestly with an apologetic smile. “I was.. surprised when my father brought up that he’ll set me up with you, especially when I’m still moving on from my lover’s.. death.”

Ah, so she doesn’t know that he had broken up with his lover.

The man tries to prevent himself from asking Chisato if she could change her father’s mind about the marriage, knowing that it will only be a helpless move given that the woman would have definitely asked from the start.

“My condolences, may he rest in peace.” Ayato said with a sad frown. “If it makes you feel better, the marriage is a shock for me as well, and I’m not sure how this will go for us.”

The woman feels relieved from hearing those words. “I’m glad we’re on the same page then.”

It took a minute before Chisato spoke up again. “Even though we don’t have feelings for each other, I’d like to put in some effort in this marriage at least. We will be spending time together for the rest of our lives as soon as we graduate, after all.”

Ayato feels his heart sink, now remembering that fact.

“...I understand. I shall try to do the… same.” was the only thing he could muster, knowing that he’s still not ready to even accept this cruel fate of his.

That was the last time he saw the woman, and there’s no guarantee that the Hiiragi won’t be at the next party that the Kamisato family will also be attending.

What can he do about it? Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

As days grew by, Ayato felt more restless to the point where he didn't want to go home early and study. All he wants to do is something that could make him forget. Forget about the ridiculous marriage, forget about the heartbreak, and forget about you.

Although he looks like he hasn’t been through hell at all on the outside, the inside is like an ocean during a stormy night. Only time could tell how long it’ll take before he snaps.

Even when he hasn’t seen you for weeks, you’re still haunting him. Even when he closes his eyes and sleeps, you’re still there in his dreams – the one where he wants to be forever because it’s the only place where he has you in his arms with no worries.

Out of hopes of keeping his thoughts at bay, Ayato volunteers to stay on campus after classes to help with some more Student Council activities.

Thanks to this, it was the reason why he saw you again.

He was on his way out of the university an hour after he finished his extended activities when he noticed your familiar figure nearby. Seeing how you didn’t notice him, he decided to try and go to another direction to hide himself away from you, only for you to notice him and be surprised.

Thankfully, he instantly looked away when your eyes landed on him, causing him to act like he didn’t notice you and went in another direction to go away from you.

His heart sank when he heard you letting out a sob as soon as he was out of your view.

Just hearing such a sound would’ve made him run up to you and comfort you to the end of time, but now that he has no right to do such then there’s nothing he can do than to be out of your way and out of your life.

The next day after the incident, Ayato quickly backed out from his extended stay in the campus for the Student Council much to his comrades’ confusion.

He decides to go back to being occupied with both of his duties as the heir and studying hard. Although it doesn’t exactly help shoving his thoughts away, it’s better than bothering you.

Sooner or later, the reminder of his marriage eventually comes.

It started when Ayato encountered Chisato once more at the university, specifically the place where all the buildings connect to one another, and the man dreaded the thought that people will start being curious about their relationship and spread rumors about it, which could lead to you hearing them all and be even more heartbroken.

What can he do about it? Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

When Chisato said she’d put effort in the marriage, Ayato didn’t think she meant she’s going to start now when they haven’t even been officially engaged yet.

Not a week even passed when the young man received letters from the woman. Each note was nothing but wishes that his day would go well, something that made him couldn’t help but scoff.

His day will never go well when he has just left the only love of his life.

Just when Ayato thought the letters were the only thing he’ll get from Chisato, the woman had also started to occasionally give him foods that she accidentally cooked too much, something that made his smile even more strained around her.

There’s no food that could make him feel happier than the ones you make for him.

Eventually, Chisato squeezed into his dull life no matter how much he didn’t want to.

She became his partner in events that both of their families are invited to, not noticing how much he wanted to tell that he’s not dating her to people who went into conclusion that they’re both dating.

She then became his new studymate and visits his estate every now and then, not noticing how he prefers to do things alone ever since the breakup.

She became a part of his friend group, not noticing how his friends are hiding something that she doesn’t know about Ayato.

Not to mention how she’s also the person he walks with towards the university, not noticing how he sometimes stares at a certain street and locations that reminded him all too well of someone who’s special to him.

At this point, Chisato truly became a part of Ayato’s life.

What can he do about it? Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

But, if he had to be honest, he appreciates Chisato’s efforts. He always reassures himself that at least the woman isn’t so cruel than he thought she would be. He feels bad that he couldn’t tell her about you, not when he knows she’ll try to convince her father once again and possibly make Shinsuke believe that Ayato put her up to it—

“Ayato? Are you alright?” His thoughts were instantly cut off by the sound of his best friend’s voice calling him, causing the blue-haired man to wake up from reality and look at Thoma in confusion.

The blonde-haired man frowns at the sight of his friend spacing out. “Is something… wrong?”

Ayato hesitates for a moment before a stiff smile slowly forms on his face.

“Everything’s alright. Thank you for your concern, Thoma.”

If anything, Ayato is glad that no one batted an eye at the fact that he and Chisato started hanging out with one another, thinking that they’re both close friends thanks to their families. So that has to mean something, right?

Apparently not. Not when he could feel the intense glares of two certain women who are considered one of your best friends ever since he entered the cafeteria with Chisato.

Now that he thinks about it… How would things turn out when he and Chisato started dating?

He found that one out very quickly.

It was during another typical visit from Shinsuke when he told Ayato the one thing he dreaded to hear.

“I heard from my dearest daughter of mine that there will be an upcoming school festival for your university by the end of spring.” Shinsuke said, stirring the cup of tea that one of the servants provided. “It’s been a long time since I’ve experienced one in my school… How long was that?”

Ayato couldn’t help but have a bad feeling down his stomach. Usually, Shinsuke is a man who goes straight to the point, so seeing him talking about… things that he should be talking with an old friend about, is getting on his nerves.

“If you’d like to experience it again, the festival is open to everyone outside the school as long as they know a student there.”

Shinsuke smiles. “That’s good, but a CEO like me is too busy to do such indulgence. I’m quite afraid that my dearest daughter will be alone throughout the festival…”

Ah there it is.

“If you could, Kamisato Ayato, would you accompany Chisato the whole time and perhaps make it official?”

Ayato’s strained smile almost falters.

The silence fell upon the room. All that was heard are hushed footsteps from those who reside in the estate as well as noises from the beautiful yard that’s just outside of the lounge both Ayato and Shinsuke are in.

It took a few seconds for Ayato to finally speak up. “...I’d be delighted, Mr. Hiiragi.”

“Thank you, Kamisato.” The elder man then stands up. “I shall take my leave knowing that my daughter will be in good hands for such an occasion. I will come back soon to discuss certain matters with you regarding your relationship, specifically how long the both of you will keep your relationship a secret.”

Ayato stands up as well. “Very well, Mr. Hiiragi. Would you like me to accompany you to the exit..?”

Shinsuke shrugs him off with a laugh. “Oh don’t worry about me, thank you for your kind hospitality, Mr. Kamisato.”

Just after the CEO slides the door open, he stops for a moment. “Or should I call you son-in-law now? I can imagine you and my daughter getting married already, haha!”

The younger man tries not to clench his fists.

“...I’m fine with any… Mr. Hiiragi.”

Just to get this over with, Ayato decides to ask Chisato out on the day before the festival in Komore Cafe.

In a way, it’s like he’s reliving the time when he asked you out on a date in Komore Cafe. Though, that didn’t make things better for him – if anything, he feels like this is so… wrong. He doesn’t want to see Chisato as a replacement of you nor does he want to replace the memories he cherished with the ones that have Chisato in it.

Chisato was, at the very least, delighted and enthusiastic when Ayato asked her out, giving the man a sign that she now has feelings for him much to his dismay.

What can he do about it? Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

He could feel Thoma’s eyes on his back, causing him to feel even more guilty that he’s doing it here.

If only Thoma could understand once he finds out.

DAY 1 - START OF FESTIVAL

DAY 5 - END OF FESTIVAL

The festival was all but a blur.

The whole time, Chisato was taking Ayato all over the festival, wanting to try a lot of things to which he had to oblige. Although he wasn’t looking forward to this occasion, it didn’t mean Ayato wasn’t enjoying the festival. Fortunately, Chisato is a pleasant company to be with, and he knows he has to make efforts in this marriage as it is fair to the woman who also didn’t want it.

However… If he had to be honest, the only thing that made the festival a bit better is the fact that he hasn’t seen you for the past week, and he wonders whether or not you’re having fun now that you’re back to spending time with your friends (an information that he found out from Thoma himself).

He finds out that question when he hears a familiar laugh that he hasn’t heard for so long.

While Chisato was busy talking to one of her friends who found her, Ayato instantly turns around to look for the source of the voice. Just once, he wants to see you again to see if you’re alright than before.

To his relief, you are having fun.

You’re a few steps away from where he is, it’s enough for you to not realize that he’s in the same area as you, laughing along with Ei and Miko, who are enjoying the festival just as you are.

Ayato smiles genuinely at the sight, relieved that you look better than the last time he saw you.

It’s at that moment when Ayato realizes that even when he’s suffering from Shinsuke taking advantage of him, he knows that you’re somewhere out there safe and now happy, then that’s enough for him to go on with his dull life that he didn’t wish to come back to.

4 YEARS LATER, SPRING .

As Thoma left Ayato’s office after their agreement about inviting you to the wedding, Ayato couldn’t help but feel nervous.

Surely if he’s careful enough, then Shinsuke won’t find out about you being his ex and will simply think you’re just an old friend of Ayato’s in college just like his other friends. He just needs to make sure that he’s alone with you when he tells you the truth, but won’t risk telling you about Shinsuke given that you’d probably be anxious for the rest of your life.

Suddenly he remembers something.

Ah right… Tomorrow’s the day.

He supposes it won’t hurt to come visit tomorrow, it’s the least he can do as a member of the Kamisato family.

After Ayato places the flowers on top of Kamaji’s grave, he starts to pay respect as the Kujou family stands idly by in silence. Although the supposedly heir isn’t considered as a close friend of Ayato’s, Kamaji is still a friend who didn’t deserve such cruel fate.

It’s truly unfortunate that this day was the day when he lost two of his friends.

As soon as Ayato says his condolences and farewell to the Kujou family, he heads towards two certain graves that’s quite a bit far away from where Kamaji’s is.

Another thing that the public doesn’t know about Kamaji’s car accident was the people who were in the scene.

There were three deaths who were involved from the accident. The first was of course Kamaji, but no one knew who the two other people that died from the accident besides the Kamisato family once again.

The two innocent people who were hit by Kamaji were associated with the Kamisato family, Tomo and the last member of the Kaedehara family, Kaedehara Kazuha.

Kazuha was a dear friend of the Kamisato siblings who died too soon.

They weren’t close as far as Ayato was aware of, but that didn’t mean his death made the heir’s grief go away so easily. Kazuha was kind, and a close friend of Ayaka’s due to how they’re batchmates in their school.

So when the two Kamisato siblings heard from their father that the two unknown innocent people who died was one of the people they’re friends with, they were distraught.

He sometimes wonders if Kazuha would’ve been great friends with you.

MONTHS LATER, AUTUMN.

The day after the joint bachelor party, Ayato received a surprise visit from a familiar guest of his in his hotel suite.

“...( Name ).” He spoke in disbelief, watching as your face fell at the sight of your ex.

“...Ka…Kamisato..” You replied. “I apologize, am I.. bothering you and Chisato right now?”

Ayato blinks a few times before he immediately shakes his head. “No, don’t worry. Unfortunately, Chisato is not here at the moment since she’s currently going out with her friends right now.”

“Oh…” You spoke softly, looking away from his gaze. You honestly hoped you’d see Chisato, that way you’d get along with her more and become friends. “...I uh.. I just came to visit because I forgot to give you two a wedding gift.”

Ayato looks down at the box you’re holding and he manages to read the brand. Ah, champagne flutes..?

You then add, “And… I want to talk to you about what you told me before.”

The blue-haired man’s eyes lit up, opening the door wide for you to come in. “Of course, please come in.”

The both of you stayed silent as you entered their hotel suite, unsure what to say to one another.

“You can put the gift there on the table and sit down by the sofa. I can fetch us some drinks since I’m sure it must be exhausting for you to come all this way here.” Ayato spoke up, heading towards the kitchen without letting you protest that he didn’t have to do it.

By the time he comes back, he places a glass of water in front of you before sitting somewhere nearby. He would be lying if he said he’s not nervous about this situation.

You slowly took a sip of the drink, avoiding eye contact with Ayato.

It’s only a matter of time before the both of you have to talk about it.

Ayato decides to be the first one to speak about it. “I… I really do apologize for everything, ( Name ).”

You sighed. “...I know. I think you and I are thinking the same thing, we want to get this settled with, don’t we?”

“Correct.” He responds.

You nodded slowly. “I do wish you told me this before when you had the chance. I would’ve understood more as to why you did it and maybe this wouldn’t have been so painful for me.” You put the glass down on the table, still refusing to keep eye contact with him. “However, I suppose you have your own reasons for why you didn’t tell me.”

Ayato nodded sadly. “I did.”

You took a deep breath, staying silent for a couple of minutes. “I’ve thought about it at night ever since you told me.” You confessed. “I didn’t know what to feel. Should I be mad? Upset? Sad? Distraught? I didn’t even know if I wanted to pity you or not.”

You then look at where Ayato is. “I still can’t forgive you for what you’ve done to me of course, and.. Honestly almost three days isn’t enough for me to process this whole thing you and I have — and I doubt I’d be able to make up my mind by the end of the trip — so I think it’s best for you and I to go our separate ways for now.”

The blue-haired man nods slowly, smiling sadly. “I understand. I know it’s too much for me to ask if we could be friends again after so long so I’ll respect your wishes.”

You look at him with a grateful look. “Thank you, Kamisato.”

“Anything for you, ( Last Name ).”

You then decided to take your leave. “It was nice talking to you. Congratulations on your wedding again.”

Ayato slowly follows you as you head towards the exit of his suite, wanting to escort you out. “It’s no problem, ( Last Name ). Thank you for the gift as well.”

“Goodbye, Kamisato.”

“Goodbye, ( Last Name ).”

And just like that, the door closes shut behind you as you start to walk away from the room.

Ayato lets out the breath he didn’t know he was holding as soon as you’re gone, and for the first time, he feels as if a weight on his shoulder has disappeared.

Although he isn't considered your friend, he knows it's enough for him knowing that the both of you have settled the one thing that's eating you both alive.

When he decides to return to the living area and picks up your glass, he couldn’t help but notice the gift-card you wrote on top of the gift you gave him.

“Congrats on your wedding, Mr. Kamisato and Ms. Hiiragi!

– Sincerely, ( Name ) ( Last Name ) and Diluc Ragnvindr”

The last two words made Ayato raise an eyebrow in confusion at the sight of another name besides yours.

Since when did someone like Diluc Ragnvindr himself be allowed to share a gift with someone he doesn’t know well?

Unless…?

“No.. He doesn’t see them like that.” He mumbled to himself, walking away from the box to wash the glass as he tried to push his thoughts away.

He could only hope you don’t see Diluc that way either, if you found out about his true self, then only Celestia can tell how you would react.

DAN’S NOTES !

To simply put, Kazuha was long dead before meeting you. His death as well as him being a part of your life as a mysterious friend whose motive is to push you to move on are honestly one of the plans I’m going for before I begin to write the prologue of evermore.

The reason why he’s with you and wants to help you is because he knows how much Ayato is so fond of you based on countless times when the blue-haired man talked to Kazuha about you as well as how Kazuha feels like he owes Ayato a lot. So the least he can do is to be there for you when you’re alone.

Of course, by the time you start to no longer be alone, Kazuha starts to fade away, and he knows that as soon as you come back to your friends once again, he can finally go to the afterlife knowing that you’ll be okay.

—

also a summary of what ayato means by diluc’s true self.

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mondaymelon · 1 month

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₊⊹ 𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐊𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐒 ♡. | genshin!various x gn!reader

「 "𝐚𝐡, 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐮𝐩…"」

— in which you kiss him ... accidentally, and indirectly.

𝐅𝐋𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐃 — kazuha, gaming, FREMINET, THOMA, KAVEH, chongyun, gorou

— "Ah, wrong cup."

It's a warm morning, yet the shade of the light canopy of trees provides ample comfort. At your words, however, the amicable conversation halts. Gingerly, you place his cup back on its saucer, uttering a quiet apology. "Sorry, sorry..."

Ugh, a quiet moment with someone you'd been pining after for ages, and you likely just sabotaged any chance you had. Making someone uncomfortable is surely not a way to have someone fall head over heels for you. You cautiously glanced upwards, catching the sight of... something you didn't expect...!?

He hid in his hand, raised and flush against his face. It was rather insufficient in the whole "hiding" department, however, for you could still clearly see the fluster on his features and the red cast across the tips of his ears. Just above the cover of his fingers were his eyes, hurriedly averted from yours. His mouth was slightly ajar, but in the moments that passed, his lips moved to form whispers you couldn't quite catch.

You stood, frantic. Really, every one of your plans was going awry. "I'm sorry! I, I'll go get you a new cup-"

"He caught his hand in his before you could fully depart, clutching it tightly. His usually cool skin was warm. "N, No, I- It's fine..."

He watched your face brighten with relief as you sat back down, completely cheery again, and released a breath quietly.

Ah, how was he supposed to tell you that the mere sight of your lips touching where he had put his made his heart skip a beat?

— It simply wasn't fair.

𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆 — HEIZOU, KAEYA, CHILDE, venti, ayato, LYNEY

— "Wait, let me try..."

Word had gotten around of a new drink, supposedly "the best in all of teyvat"... naturally, that called for a timely visit. It didn't exactly matter who you went with, though who were you fooling, it did, and he'd been the first one that came to mind when you were drafting a letter. Now, he stood by your side, leisurely swinging his arms while he walked and smiling smugly.

The reason? The moment you reached into your pocket to fish out your wallet to pay the fee for two drinks, you'd found your pockets empty, and that's where he had swooped in, graciously handing over his mora instead. The moment the two of you exited the vicinity of the drink stall, however, he somehow materialized your wallet once more and placed it in your hands with a cat-like grin. That little... you'd be sure to treat him to a meal sometime soon, a favor like that couldn't just be gone unpaid.

...That, and it was a convenient excuse to spend another outing with him.

"Hey, you got the limited edition flavor? C'mon, give me just a sip..." You beamed when he handed said drink down towards you, taking a sip from his straw — until you realized just what you'd done, of course.

It wasn't like it was something dire, not by any means. You were rather the romantic, and the fact that... well, hadn't the two of you just kissed indirectly?

You didn't voice your thoughts, only meekly retreated after handing the bottle back to him, growing even more flustered when your fingers brushed against his in the process. He seemed to hear them, however, and a smirk made its way onto his lips.

"Oh, don't tell me you were aiming for an indirect kiss all along?"

"W- No!" Ugh, that twinkle in his eyes was dangerous. It's easy to see that he doesn't believe you in the slightest. Yet, before you can dispense another rebuttal, he reaches a hand up to your hair and makes a mess of it.

— "Aha, who knew you were so sly~"

𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐅𝐅𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐓 — alhaitham, XIAO, albedo, diluc, neuvillette

— "Is something wrong?"

Well, not exactly "wrong", per se. Instead, there was definitely something wrong with you in particular.

The situation started off like any other would. You found the man in his usual place, and greeted him with a smile, to which he nodded in response. He was a busy person, so you'd decided to take the initiative and make him a boxed lunch, only planning to give it to him and then let him carry on with whatever tasks he needed to complete — only... hey, wasn't it too out of character of him to ask you to feed him??

He glanced up at you, his head subconsciously tilting to the side. Just with that simple movement, a figurative arrow struck your heart. "If it's too much trouble, nevermind-"

You awkwardly coughed into your fist, trying to disperse any awfully hopeful thoughts of "hey, isn't this so romantic!?" in your head — yearning for him was one thing, but projecting your imagination of him would be another entirely. "No, it's fine- I was just caught off guard, is all..." At this point, you were more so convincing yourself than him. You dipped your head in a nod to yourself. Of course, he was so swamped with duties that he couldn't spare the time to feed himself, that was the case, wasn't it?

"Here, open wide..." You took a portion of the food and lifted it up to his lips, and he ate it agreeably. Hamster. He's like a hamster, a thought you really shouldn't be having considering how his disposition was, but seeing him swiftly chewing the portion in his cheeks... you cleared your throat, only to flinch with a start upon realizing he'd taken the utensils from you. Now, he held some of the lunch up to you, gesturing it to your mouth.

"Eh, but this is for you-" You declined, yet the insistence in his gaze only grew.

"You brought it for me, so you should have some as well."

"Well... alright," not willing to bother with an argument you were not likely to win, you ate what he hovered before you gratefully, trying to ignore the way he was staring at you as you ate.

W, Wait, hold on, isn't that the same cutlery he used-

"Your face is red. Did you choke? Here, let me-"

"No, it's just that- we, just now- ah, it's nothing."

— "Mhm."

( a/n ) new post format and its silly ( i hate everything about this ) :stareyes: ahahah anyways. trying to revive myself so. you guys get ( poorly cooked ) food :>

𝐭 𝐚 𝐠 𝐥 𝐢 𝐬 𝐭 : @manager-of-the-pudding-bank, @iamdedinside, @ilyuu, @falors, @swivy123, @scara-is-my-wife, @lupicalbestwolf, @justyoureader,@fiannee, @aether-darling, @ceneid, @avensuersa, @solxima, @sangoqueenkoko, @haliyamori ...

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catcze · 7 months

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⠀「 Waking him up in the middle of the night, asking for food 」

Reblogs are greatly appreciated !!

trying out a different format for content when im strapped for time lmao

"Babe." You nudge him in the shoulder with a finger. His arms are wrapped around you, asleep with his face half-buried in the pillow. He doesn't respond the first time, merely twitching slightly, so you try again with more force. "Babe," you say with more urgency, and he grumbles under his breath, rousing from sleep.

"What?" he asks, voice raspy.

"'m hungry," you tell him quietly, whispering not to break the tranquility of the night.

"What?" He leans closer, and your eyes narrow.

"I'm hungry. Food please," you tell him, louder this time.

He grumbles under his breath, burying his face further into the pillow, ignoring you. His hands tighten around you so much that you nearly squeak. You gasp, affronted, and keep poking his shoulder until he finally gives in.

"You're lucky i love you," he mumbles into the pillow. With a tired groan and a glare tossed your way, he releases you and tosses the blanket off of himself. He pulls on his slippers, runs his hand through his hair, still swearing, and stands. He turns back to you, a hand outstretched to help you out of the sheets, and you grin at him victoriously.

"Fine, what do you wanna eat, you menace?" He asks around a yawn, tired, but too tightly wound around your finger to actually ever tell you no.

— Wriothesley, Alhaitham, Cyno, Scaramouche / Wanderer, Xiao, Childe

He wakes up a little bit more at your request, blinking once or twice. He frowns at you, glancing at the clock on the wall, before levelling you with an exasperated stare. "At this hour?" he asks dryly. "It couldn't wait until breakfast?"

You shake your head resolutely. "Nope. I don't think I'll be able to sleep."

He sighs, but doesn't contest further, instead pressing a kiss to your cheek, and then one to your lips. "You're so spoiled," he says it fondly though, and you beam up at him. Because really, when it comes to him, you definitely are. He slips out of bed. "I'll make you that toast that you like, okay?" he asks, and you nod enthusiastically, already clambering out of the sheets after him.

— Kaveh, Diluc, Neuvillette, Kazuha, Ayato, Albedo, Kaeya, Thoma, Zhongli

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seraphswings · 8 months

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Poor thing can't sleep without you. He has to have you by his side on the bed, whether you want to or not. He can't sleep without your warmth. He'll continue to beg with puppy eyes, begging you to just come to be with him. How can you deny him? It's not like it's anything bad...

Fucking god you can't even move an inch from him when he's resting his head on your chest, having his arm wrapped snuggly around you. All you can do his run your fingers through his hair, massaging his scalp while hoping that you can sleep with this big of a man is sleeping on you.

—— VENTI, KAEYA, diluc, CHILDE, xiao, THOMA, ayato, ITTO, kazuha, HEIZOU, KAVEH, cyno, tighnari, LYNEY, NEUVILLETE, wriothesley

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glassrowboat · 23 days

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Daydream in a Nightmare

Authors note: I read a soulmate au where with dream sharing. Everytime you fall asleep you and your SM would meet in a world that would reflect your consciousness and who you were. So down below are the boys and what I think the places their dreams would depict.

Mondstadt

Diluc: The cathedral. His mom, back when she was alive, used to play during service and afterwards Diluc ran over greeting her with the biggest smile, asking her to play him one more song. She never failed to. Maybe that's why there's always a gentle melody playing whenever you see him as he rests his fingers over the same white tiles, simply trying to remember how to play.

Kaeya: The Dawn Winery. Or at least parts of it. Behind closed doors there's the scent of grass, of dirt, and the faintest smell of ash. He says it's simply the vineyard that in the real world would be right outside, but he knows well as he pulls your hand from the doorknob that it's ruins of a fallen nation haunting him right on the other side.

Albedo: Glass walls. A maze of mirrors and reflections. If you ever have stopped to bother to count between Albedo’s musings as he shares with you the secrets of the world, you'd notice that for some reason he always has more reflections in the walls around you than of your own figure. Like there's more of him than there is of you.

Venti: Old Mondstadt. Back before the revolution, back when there were people in the streets wishing their God weren't so unjust, but in his dreams that wall of spiraling wind is never there. A warped perception of a life he wished to have lived as he sits in your lap not as Venti the bard, but a wind sprite trying to bury into your clothes for warmth. Just don't call him pipsqueek or he'll try and bite your fingers. Playfully. You think.

Liyue

Zhongli: A place that no longer exists, one torn away by this world during the archon war. It's unlike him not to comment on a place, a trinket, an item, as you pick something up and fiddle with it, but this place he never goes into full detail on. However, he will tell you all about the artisanship of the table you two are sharing tea over.

Baizhu: His home back in Chenyu Vale, back before the illness hit his village, back before his parents passed away. Just a modest home that shows signs of being truly well lived in and loved. Mindlessly while you two talk he'll be cleaning the place, just the way he always does at the pharmacy. Though it does help give him something to fill the silence. It turns out he's a lot more used to Changsheng chiming in with comments than he thought. He just hopes you two get along when the time to meet in person finally comes about.

Ga ming: A festival. There's water kicking up at everyone's feet, up to everyones ankles as people with their face covered in all manner of masks walk you both by. Ga ming would pull you along from booth to booth, trying his best to win prizes despite the fact you both know they'll be gone by the time you wake.

Xiao: A Chinese pavilion in the sky. You walk among the clouds as you follow the path of the street, looking over the accents that seem somehow both rich in color and dull, muddied all at the same time. Something you've noticed from his dreams compared to yours, his always have a lingering black fog creeping in at the corner of your eyes. It makes you feel like someone else is in this world with you, like there's eyes waiting to do more than just watch.

Inazuma

Kazooha: A meadow. The wind passes you both by, stirring up pages of books you two sit reading in silence. You can't help but wonder if these are all books he's read before, especially the ones that wax poetry or something else. His thoughts, perhaps? Maybe Kazuha's very own writings? But that matters little as his head is resting on your shoulder as you try to catch words between the fluttering sheets of paper.

Itto: A kabuki play. It always ends up in you two hiding away in the back room where the performers would get ready before getting back out on stage for the next act. You would see the brightest of colors, richest of fabrics, and practiced movements so fine tuned that you can't understand why Itto is so focused on taking the makeup on the vanity in the back simply so he can paint your face with red marks just like his. To each their own you suppose, and who are you to complain when it means drawing hearts on his arm when Itto isn't paying attention?

Gorou: A tea house. It's a small place, simple, but certainly not lacking charm as Gorou pours you a cup. At first the fact you could actually taste the rich herbs on your tongue in this dreamscape threw you off, but now it's just another part of this odd reality. But saying that, the first time you spat out the drink he offered as soon as the bitter taste hit you. Apparently he never expected you to not already be used to green tea. The poor fella was apologizing for the rest of the night, ears laid flat on his head and tail tucked between his legs. It's okay though, you made it even by trying to give him dog treats. It was you having to beg for forgiveness then.

Thoma: It was different this time. No glowing blue flowers and a forest that you two would stroll through mindlessly while chatting for hours. No, this time Thoma was sitting on a wooden platform below a giant stone statue. Intriguing, yes, but mattered little compared to the rope burns around his wrist. He tried to tell you not to worry about it. That it was an accident. But that mattered little as your lips pressed to the red, irritated skin and he gave you a strained smile. You knew better than to ask about it more from there.

Ayato: It's ever changing. It's like he is constantly thinking of something whenever He falls asleep and it reflects in his dreams. Once it was a Japanese styled room the next it was some room in Fontaine's architecture. But it's always a bedroom. A place of relaxation as Ayato buries his head in your lap like it was a pillow. He'll whine about being overworked until you're tempted to pull on his hair just to make the man shut up for once, but last time you did that it led to the bed being used for a lot more than just rest. For now just pat his head and let him vent, the man needs it.

Sumeru

Kaveh: A sketch brought to life from his mothers blueprints. One he saw his mother sketching back when Kaveh was a boy and she would let him sit on her lap, let him comment on the drawings. She would always find some way to incorporate his addictions into the sketch. Nowadays he knows the building that was actually constructed in the end to be simpler, duller than the one his mother wanted, but in his dreams with you it stands tall and proud.

Al Haitham: An attic. It's dusty and it clearly had a hole in the roof that was covered over by some wooden planks and nails. A patch work job that needs to be fixed but if you ever take the time to bother with it while Al Haitham sits in an old rocking chair covered by a quilt reading the night away it will only be there the next dream cycle. It pisses you off. He pisses you off. All nonchalance and an apathetic look even as you plop yourself in his lap and take that book away. And what pisses you off even more? How he dares to call you needy as he holds you close. It's best to ignore the fact he started reading over your shoulder.

Tighnari: Pardis Dhyai. He'll sit on the walkway watching you kick the water of the ponds around, paying no mind to when you splash at him. Not anymore at least. He's learned quickly if he makes a snarky comment you'll give one back and it'll go on and on until somehow it ends in him getting dragged into the pond with you. Both dripping algae filled water as he wondered what gods made this numbskull his mate.

Cyno: Lambad's Tavern. Everytime he would come back from treks in the desert he would go there, get a drink, and play a round of cards with whoever was willing. It was a pattern. Work, work, rest, and more work. But now he didn't have to constantly be on work mode as he sat with you in the old booth shuffling cards as he tried to explain to you how TCG works. So far everytime you lose you've thrown those elemental dice and him, and with a smile he lets them hit him in the head despite being fully able to dodge them. His soulmate is such a sore loser.

Wanderer: Shakkei Pavilion. He hates it. Hates that this is the place his unconscious has chosen to sink onto so stubbornly. His wooden fingers would slide over the paintings depicting Scaramouche’s past that has now been severed from him in everyone's eyes but Nahida and the Traveler. If you knew, would you still hold his hand? Would you still trace the details of his joints and comment that you find his pretty face such a stark contrast to his sharp words? He's afraid to find out, the idea that you might be his fourth betrayal always lingering in the back of his mind.

Fontaine

Neuvillette: Under the water where the currents would carry stray bits of seaweed and fish swimming past. The first time you shared a dream with him here he had to calm you down as instinctively you held your breath, taking your hands in his and assuring you if he can talk like this, you can suck in air just as well. It took some time getting used to, but now he watches as you grab starfish off the ocean floor and bring them over to him like a prize to be presented. This is what humans must be like Neuvillette tells himself as you braid them into his hair.

Worcestershire sauce: A home. A nice one at that. Big, had decent furnishings, pictures of kids hung up on the wall. If you listened closely enough you could even hear children playing outside from the cracked open windows that showed the brightest sky outside. Wriothesly would walk behind you as you would watch the grass blowing in the wind, not saying a word as he rested his chin on top of your head. He never thought he'd be back here again. The very place made him feel sick to his stomach, but with you? It was bearable. Even as you tried to grab his handcuffs from him.

Snezhnaya

Childe: His childhood home. Back before the renovations he bought for the place with his money as a harbinger, back before the redecorating of rooms to fit more children, and back to what the house was like when he was just a boy yet to fall into the abyss. Back when everything was simpler. He would pick up toys that have gone missing, never to be seen again and stare in wonder how it all is exactly how he remembers it. It makes it so much easier to be Ajax with you, rather than Tartaglia.

Dottore: The hospital he was working in when trying to help Eleazar patients. For the life of him does he hate it, being back in the desert always having to tip his shoes out of sand that never seems to fully clear off. It doesn't help you try and pour sand down his shirt, but in a way he supposes it's better you two stay out here under that blistering sun than you going inside to be met with the smell of death. No, you don't need to know about that side of him just yet.

Pantalone: His office. It always makes it hard to tell at first if he's awake, not when the same scene greets him either way. You always joke about him being married to his work and you're the mistress in this relationship. At this point he counts on the comment as soon as his eyes flutter open and he's greeted with the sight of you sitting on the desk he's been using as a pillow. Still, he can never help the genuine smile at seeing you once again.

Captain: A flower field. The snowdrops peek out from under the fluffy blanket of white powder, crunching under every step he takes. Even in his dreams the cold of Snezhnaya is ever present, ever biting. It only makes sense you are shivering behind him even as he lets you steal his cloak that is more of a blanket on you than anything. This field, he knows it well, knows that what waters these flowers is more blood than anything else, but that matters little as he wraps his arms around you. Maybe he can find a way to dream you a proper jacket.

Pierro: A grand hall. It reminds you of the way ballrooms are described in romance stories as the couple depicted would dance the night away. Columns so high you have to tilt your head back just to see where they meet the ceiling covered in paintings you've never seen before. That is until Pierro steps into your view. He always offered his hand to you before you could ask, and as your fingers interlocked he would tell you about them. Always ready to answer your questions. It meant someone was curious about a part of his long lost nation. So, of course, he was always happy to share.

Scaramouche: A never ending fire. It's a small shack, engulfed by flames that never seem to dwindle or burn out the wood it feeds on. Like this place was stuck in time in his mind. He doesn't talk to you, not any more than a sharp shut up. The only time that glare he showed you disappeared is when you pulled your hand back from the curious fire with a hiss, not expecting it to actually hurt in this fake reality. For a moment you could have sworn he took a step towards you, but he never came any closer than that as he hissed at you to be careful. Dumb mortals should at least know not to burn themselves.

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unearthly-doting · 29 days

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finding their soulmate: genshin edition.

a/n: i haven't made a post here in a hot second and i honestly apologize about that lol. the motivation to write just hasn't been there but!! here's a small lil genshin post for now. i just spun a wheel to pick who i write but if u want me to write for some of the others then just lmk!!

includes: xiao, kaeya, kujou sara, albedo, tartaglia, and ayato.

warnings: mdni, yandere content, not edited, gn reader, kidnapping, forced relationships, arranged marriage, manipulation, reader injury in both kujou sara's, albedo's and tartaglia's parts, childe stabs you :peace sign:, canon is a very vague concept in my writing more often than not btw, this is kinda cringey </3, the yandere content in albedo's part is actually very mild bc i was restraining myself bc there was a lot i wanted to do w it.

XIAO — never really cared much about finding his soulmate. His entire existence was dedicated to protecting Liyue, even if the nation no longer needed his protection. Besides, with how long he's been around, he just assumed his soulmate was long dead and that he'd never meet them. Though, a small part of him wondered... what was his soulmate like?

And, almost as if the universe had been listening, he ends up meeting you. His soulmate. It wasn't a classic, romantic meeting. He didn't save your life or anything like that. You were just a traveler who decided to stay at the inn.

He didn't think much of you until his eyes met yours and suddenly color was flooding into his world. It made him dizzy, and it stunned him into absolute silence because all he could so was stare at you with wide eyes.

You were clearly going through it as well, because obviously. You just met your fucking soulmate on a damn business trip. What the hell were you supposed to do now? It would be awkward to just... ignore what had happened, right? I mean, he's staring right at you and this was all just very overwhelming.

It was an awkward first meeting, that's for sure.

But during your time at the inn, whenever you were free from work, you spent it with Xiao. He was closed off, clearly keeping his guard up and not letting you get too close. You didn't know the reasons, but you didn't expect him to tell you his entire life story just because you two were apparently bound by the universe.

Honestly, you just assumed he didn't want to be with his soulmate. This didn't upset you. It wouldn't work out, anyway. You're only staying for a few weeks before heading home.

But archons, did Xiao want you. Behind his typical, distant behavior, Xiao was taking note of everything about you. Your interests, your habits, your sleep schedule, your favorite foods and desserts... everything you told him or subconsciously revealed, Xiao was tucking it away in his mind.

He wanted you. He wanted you to stay here, in Liyue, with him. Where you belong. But he didn't know how to express that. He's never been in love before, and it's not like he'll just suddenly become an expert at romance after meeting you.

When it was time for you to leave, he was crushed. He needed you to stay. He needed you by his side. Letters wouldn't be enough to fill the emptiness in your wake if you left. You had to stay.

You will stay.

And when you wake up to find yourself no longer in the inn, and instead in some small home deep within the mountains of Liyue, you're distraught.

Xiao looks genuinely guilty, robbing you of your freedom but... you understand, don't you? You have to understand. He just couldn't let you go. You're his soulmate, you were destined to be with him! You'll love it here, he'll make sure of it.

Just stay.

KAEYA — had always wondered what his soulmate was like ever since he was a child. He would spend hours just staring at the small crescent moon forever stained on his wrist, wondering if and when he'll meet the person with a matching mark.

Of course, as he got older he spent less time thinking about such things, though he did always hold out hope that he might be able to one day meet his soulmate. Little did he know, he's met his soulmate already. Multiple times.

You took over Sara's shifts at the Good Hunter whenever she had other things she needed to focus on, so Kaeya has spoken with you on numerous occasions, he's just never realized you were his soulmate because you keep your wrists covered. He's not one to judge, his wrists aren't visible either.

Him finding out was an accident. You had been handing him his order when your sleeves rolled up a bit, and his gaze just so happened to look at your wrists and he saw the very same crescent moon that was on his.

And for a moment, he froze. He just stared. Long enough that you were starting to feel a little uncomfortable. But before you could awkwardly send him on his way, he was showing you the crescent moon on his wrist as well and thus began your love story.

Or... well... it's what Kaeya had hoped for, but you didn't seem interested in soulmates at all. You didn't want the universe to decide who you were meant to be with, you wanted to make that decision yourself, so you had, to put it simply, bluntly rejected him.

And he gets it! It hurts, sure. He spent his entire life dreaming of this day, and it's not turning out the way he had hoped, but... you guys can be friends, at least, right? No strings attached?

For a while, Kaeya was fine with that. You and he had a really strong friendship. He cared about you, and you cared about him. Though your feelings were platonic, he was holding on to the hope that maybe one day, you'll realize you two were meant to be together.

But it was starting to seem as though that day might never come, because almost a year into your friendship with him, you had told Kaeya that you were thinking about entering the dating scene. He was... not too pleased about that, honestly. It was pretty obvious too, the way his entire mood soured the moment you brought the topic up.

He didn't stand by idly while this happened. Any person he saw you chatting up with romantic intentions would suddenly avoid you like the plague the next time you saw them. Any blind dates would end with you being ghosted. Hell, even some of your friends, the ones who were helping you get dates, were starting to avoid you too. It was so confusing.

But not Kaeya. No, Kaeya was always by your side.

Whenever you needed him, he was there. He always seemed to be able to make time for you. He listened to you vent your frustrations out, never once judging you or telling you that you were being dramatic. He was the only constant in your life these days.

Of course, you were completely oblivious to the fact that he was the cause of all of this. It's not that hard to blackmail people, he's learned. But they didn't deserve you anyway, seeing how easily they gave up on you the moment he approached them.

Maybe... maybe dating Kaeya wouldn't be so bad... I mean, you're the one deciding this, right? The universe isn't having any play in it. This is your decision. Isn't it?

KUJOU SARA — never cared about her soulmate. She knew she had one, you were in every dream she had. She found it to be more of a nuisance than anything else.

Her entire life was dedicated to her training, and to the Raiden Shogun. She neither had the time, nor the interest in searching for her soulmate. Besides, it didn't seem as if you resided in Inazuma. Your clothing was similar what people in Fontaine wear, and Fontaine was far away from Inazuma.

She was confident that she wouldn't be meeting you any time soon, so she never gave you any thought when she was awake. She never made any plans on what she would do if she did, by any chance, meet you. It didn't matter.

And she can't help but regret that, now that you're standing in front of her. If she had known that meeting her soulmate would make her feel like this, as if everything in the world suddenly made sense, then... well... she doesn't know what she would've done, to be honest.

No matter, Sara had no time to entertain you. Your stay in Inazuma was only temporary, so she saw no point in trying to form a bond with you. You, however, seemed to have different plans. She was used to seeing you in her dreams every night, but she was not used to seeing you in her waking moments.

Whenever she wasn't preoccupied with something, you were there to offer her company. It was annoying, and she's sent you away more than once, but that didn't seem to deter you. If anything, you seemed to become more determined each time she brushed you off.

At some point, she had given up on avoiding you. It was easier to just let you stick around. And, the more time she spent with you, the more attached she was becoming. It wasn't smart, she knew that, but could you blame her? You're so... irrevocably you.

Her fondness for you didn't go unnoticed.

Many people in Inazuma treated you with the same respect they treated Sara. You were her soulmate, after all. Should someone insult you, they would in turn be insulting her. Nobody wanted to get on her bad side.

There were, however, a few bad apples.

It should come as no surprise that a target was placed on your back the moment people took notice of Sara's attachment to you. She didn't think she'd have to worry much, because no one would be idiotic enough to actually try and harm you under her watch, but she should've known better.

It happened a few days before you were set to leave Inazuma to return home. A disturbance was going on within the city so Sara wasn't with you when you went on your daily walk just outside of it. It was supposed to be safe, but it wasn't.

Some vagrants had got the jump on you, and you nearly lost your life. You were lucky enough to have been found by some bystanders, but Sara was less than pleased when she heard about this. She had never taken pleasure in killing anyone before, but there was a deep-rooted sense of satisfaction deep within her chest when she watched the lives of those who hurt you fade away.

And as she sat by your side, waiting for you to wake up, she came to a decision. You can't be alone. If you are, you'll get hurt, and she won't be able to protect you. She can't let you leave Inazuma. She knows you'll more than likely hate her for making this decision for you, but if it means she can keep you safe, keep you alive and by her side, then... that hatred is something she'll be willing to bear.

ALBEDO — doesn't have a soulmate. At least, he's not supposed to. He's an artificial being, so it wouldn't make sense for him to have a soulmate. Of course, he does find the concept of soulmates to be intriguing. Who, or what, decides who people are destined to be with? It's a question he hopes to find an answer to.

So he wasn't surprised when he found you passed out in the snow, deep within Dragonspine. He's seen this countless times before, travelers who don't take precautions before trying to brave the deadly cold that comes with being here. He assumed he would just nurse you back to health and you would go on your merry way.

That changed, however, when he was cleaning your wounds and he saw his name inked on your skin, right on your collarbone. In his handwriting, at that. It confused him, because... that would mean that he's your soulmate. But he can't be. And yet, it didn't come off when he tried wiping it off. It was a part of your skin.

This left him with many questions, though none of them got answered when you woke up. You couldn't remember much about yourself, other than your name and a few other details. You didn't even know why you were in Dragonspine, or where you were from. You did hit your head pretty badly, judging from the headwound, so that would explain the amnesia, though he's not sure if it was going to be something temporary or not.

You both decided it would be best to just have you stay here until you were able to recover some of your memories and although Albedo wasn't eager to make friends with you, he was grateful for the company. He was incredibly patient with you too, answering any questions you may have had ranging from a multitude of different topics.

And in return, you helped out as much as you could without overexerting yourself and making your injuries worse. You'd make sure to keep his little lab tidy when he was away. You'd help out with some of his experiments too, if he knew you wouldn't get hurt doing so.

All while trying to figure out how he could possibly be your soulmate. He checked over himself. Four times. Your name was nowhere on his body. So why? Why was his name on yours? As much as he hates to admit it, he thinks he may never get an answer to this mystery.

Though... that's not such a bad thing, he thinks. He finds himself enjoying your company more and more with each passing day, the whole soulmate thing rarely even crossed his mind. At least, until you had asked him why his name was permanently etched into your skin. It was fairly easy to explain everything to you, though he was unable to answer a few of your questions, sadly. Soulmates were still a mystery, after all.

And when you asked if you could write your name on him so you two could match, he found himself unable to say no. He found himself unable to speak at all, actually, as you wrote your name on his shoulder. You even added a little heart next to it.

But no, Albedo was too busy coming to terms with the feelings he has for you. They weren't new. He's been aware of them for a week or so now, he just never gave it much thought until now. Now, with you so close to him, it was simply impossible to ignore.

And once you pull away, you smile at him and say, "There! Now I'm your soulmate too, right?" And oh.

Oh.

There was no way Albedo was going to let you leave Dragonspine now.

TARTAGLIA — feels a little bad for his soulmate, whoever they are. They can feel his pain, and he can feel theirs. So... they probably hate his guts, considering he's not the most careful person in the world. He pushes himself to his limits and beyond, and his soulmate has no doubt felt every single second of it.

Don't get him wrong, he would love to meet his soulmate. It's been a dream of his since he was a child, always eager to hear the story of how his mom and dad found out they were soulmates. Even as he grew older, the desire never went away. It was just... buried.

And his soulmate just so happened to be you, the significant other of a man who owed the Northland Bank a lot of money. He doesn't normally partake in debt collections, but he didn't have anything better to do so he decided to take this one on. He was going to use you as an example to your husband, though the moment his blade stabbed you, he froze.

He felt the pain. He stabbed you, and he could feel it. Oh fuck, he just stabbed his soulmate. That's definitely not the picturesque first meeting he was hoping for. Probably wouldn't be a good idea to tell his family this either...

Stabbing aside, he was utterly delighted. You, on the other hand, were terrified. Not only did this man just fucking stab you, his expression went from bored to something akin to crazed glee. He stared at you with a hunger that made you want to shy away from his gaze.

He doesn't care that you're already in a relationship with someone else. Not anymore, you're not. You're his, destined by the stars or however the story goes. And if your lover tries to get you back, he'll just kill them. Easy as that. Absolutely nothing will get in the way of him having you.

And he likes that you fight back against him. He especially loves it when you manage to escape. Hell, sometimes he'll even let you go just so he can chase you down again. It sends a thrill through him like no other when he catches you, and you stare at him teary-eyed and out of breath.

You're always so scared that he'll hurt you, but he would never do such a thing. He treats you like you're royalty, spoiling you with a seemingly endless amount of gifts. You're not quite sure how he knows what you like, and you're too hesitant to ask.

Honestly... he'd probably let you stab him. Y'know, he stabbed you, so it's only fair that you get to stab him in turn, right?

You think not. You're very hesitant, staring at him as though he were insane for even proposing such an idea. A part of him was disappointed. He wanted one of the many scars on his body to be from you. But a much larger part can't help but go soft at the sight of you shaking your head, sternly refusing to hurt him.

If he wasn't obsessed with you before, he certainly was now. You're too good. Too kind. He's holding you captive (lovingly, of course) and you refuse to hurt him? You don't even want to pinch him? How adorable.

Why, if he didn't know any better, he'd think that you might care about him.

He was nothing if not stubborn, of course. You might not care about him now, but you will in the future. He'll make sure of it.

After all, he's spent his whole life waiting for you.

AYATO — never had the time to think of his soulmate. He was blessed (or cursed, depending on who you ask) with the ability to see the red strings that tied people together. When he was younger, before having to take on the duties of the Kamisato name, he would always stare at the one tied to his pinkie.

He even has the habit of twirling the red string around his finger whenever he gets stressed. Only behind closed doors, of course. It would probably appear strange to others if they saw.

Meeting his soulmate was something he had always planned out in his head as a child, and when he finally did meet you, it was so... simple. There was nothing magical about it, you had just bumped into him one day when he was out in the city and that's what started all of this.

For you, it was a forgettable encounter, one that would never cross your mind again. For him, it was everything he had been waiting for. Thoma thought it was a bit strange, but he dutifully gathered information about you when Ayato asked it of him. He needed to know everything there was to know about you.

He already knew what he was going to do when he met his soulmate, the only thing left was to actually do it. And you were definitely shocked when Kamisato Ayato himself showed up at your home and asked you to marry him.

You said no, obviously, because why the hell would you agree to marry someone you didn't know? Ayato had planned for this, of course. That's why he had Thoma learn everything about you, so the moment you declined his offer, he just smiled and made a comment about your family. It was very obvious what he was implying.

And even if you aren't close with your family, you can't live with blood on your hands. You were pretty much forced into accepting Ayato's marriage proposal. He was pleased with this outcome, promising to take care of everything himself.

Marrying him meant that you would, unfortunately, have to leave your home and instead live at the Kamisato Estate. Everyone was under the impression that this marriage was one of love and not coercion. You highly doubt that anyone would believe you if you told them the truth, and you were too concerned about what the consequences would be if you did.

Everyone at the estate was nice to you, at least, though the only people allowed to actually get close to you were Ayaka and Thoma.

And when the wedding was over, it was time for your honeymoon. You were not excited about that, but it seemed Celestia itself was on your side during that time because he was too busy to spend time with you.

If he wasn't threatening the lives of your family, you would have made numerous escape attempts by now. Still, you've made it very clear that you hate his guts.

Your hatred is something he detests, though he can't fault you for it. He understands that what he's forced you into is wrong, but in his mind, it was something that had to be done. He's sure that given enough time and space, you'll grow to understand why he did what he did.

And even though you scorn his existence, Ayato looks at you as if you've placed the stars in the sky.

Your strings are forever tied together, so there's no getting out of this. He doesn't plan on ever letting you go. He'd be a terrible husband if he didn't keep you close, wouldn't he?

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fictoculus · 1 month

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౨ৎ how they kiss; rewritten

send a request!┊masterlist┊taglist applications

FEAT... almost all the genshin men

SYNOPSIS... my original how they kiss post has been really well received so i decided to rewrite it in a different (and slightly more specific) format ^^

[character] places tender kisses on your forehead, jawline, neck, and (of course) lips. he's a lot more intimate than some, and often avoids giving you quick pecks, or 'meaningless' kisses, as he would say. however, as soon as it's just the two of you, best believe [character] will be all over you, kissing a trail from your collarbone to your temples. he enjoys ghosting over your lips, but often finds that he is just as eager and impatient as you, if not more...

alhaitham , ayato, baizhu, diluc, kaeya, kazuha, neuvillette, scara, wriothesley, xiao, zhongli

it'd be impossible to count how many times [character] kisses you in a day; for all you know, it could be well into the hundreds. he always seems to have his lips pressed against you, whether it be your face, your hands, your chest, your neck; he just wants to show you how much he cares. physical touch is definitely one of his (many) love languages, and your friends can (and will) vouch when you say [character] is always clinging on to you...

childe, gorou, heizou, itto, kaeya, kaveh, lyney, thoma, venti

[character] is a casual kisser. yes, he'll press the occasional smooch to your forehead, but nothing out of the ordinary. that's not to say it bores you, of course. the feeling of his lips on yours never fails to make your heart flutter; just something about him drives you (positively) crazy. whether that be his hand placement, scent, or the kiss itself, you'll never know...

albedo, baizhu, diluc, cyno, gorou, kazuha, lyney, tighnari, thoma, wriothesley

you often find yourself desperate to catch [character]'s lips with yours, but he never seems to allow it. as much as he loves showing you affection, he gives you little to no kisses in public. that's not to say he doesn't love you though, in fact, it's the complete opposite. given his status, [character] often refrains from engaging in any more than hand holding around prying eyes, your safety being in his best interest. yes, people know of your relationship, but he can't shake the gnawing fear that someone would use you to get to him. it was his worst nightmare, and he will do everything in his power to ensure it never comes true...

ayato, neuvillette, scara, wriothesley, xiao

thanks for reading ♡ want to read more? my requests are OPEN, so please feel free to let me know what you’d like me to write next!

TAGLIST…@maopll . @nyxmainex . @avensuersa apply here

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zushikiss · 1 year

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Sleepy affection

summary ; peppering the genshin boys with affection when they're sleepy/when they're going to bed

warning ; use of petnames (honey, pretty)

pairings ; diluc, scaramouche, ayato, tighnari

notes ; it's been a long time since i made one of these, also i think the layout looks a bit off?? idk if its just me, Ayato's is written differently cause idek, DILUC HAS A STUBLE CAUSE DILUC HSISBSBS

─ DILUC

"Honey, im tryin' to sleep here.."

"I know."

you pepper kisses all over his face once again, his slight stuble making contact with your soft lips, he wraps an arm around your waist sleepily as he drags you down gently, you rest your hands on his chest as he presses a kiss to the crown of your head.

"Now go to sleep pretty, you can give all the kisses you want tomorrow."

─ SCARAMOUCHE

"When will you stop? I'm attempting to get some shut eye for once."

and yet he makes no effort to push you away, his hands resting on your thighs as you straddle him, ironically though, once you pull away to finally give your lover some rest, he pulls you back down quickly, your hands landing on his chest as you prop yourself up.

"I didn't say you needed to stop now."

you giggle as you continue showering his facr and neck with affection and kisses.

─ AYATO

he doesn't even say anything. He doesn't care if he's so sleepy he'll let you coddle him anytime, if anything he has a smile on his face and is probably asking for more, he's basically basking in love and attention, mf loves it and would never push you away, he does tease you though.

"Mhm, someone missed me."

"You were away on that expedition for so long, let me have this."

But once you move even an inch from your current position he will pout at you, his attempt at guilt tripping you to keep on showering him with affection.

─ TIGHNARI

the forest watcher's eyes are closed and he's ready to finally rest, however his dearest seemed to have different ideas, though you do know he's tired how can you help it? He's just laying and he looks so pretty you can't help but shower him with love an affection, he doesn't say anything though, who's to say he doesn't enjoy this.

"Sorry nari, i'll stop now."

"Hm? I didn't say anything about you stopping, keep going."

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dustofthedailylife · 1 year

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Little Endearing Things They Do

→ Masterlist || → Taglist

Pairings: Alhaitham, Ayato, Zhongli, Heizou, Diluc, Xiao, Cyno, Thoma x (gn!) Reader (separate)

Summary: Little endearing gestures they do that make you fall for them anew every time - or how they show their love without words.

Tags: Pure Fluff, established relationships, headcanons with short scenario drabbles

A/N: First fic post of 2023! Hope this year will be a great one for you all ♥ May all your wishes both in Genshin and irl come true (my next wish is for Alhaitham to come home... I am down bad in the worst type of way.)

ALHAITHAM

Wordlessly offers his lap for you to lie down on whenever you come home from work and are exhausted.

He asks you if you want to talk about your day while brushing over your head or carding through your hair.

While you talk he keeps reading his book and continues to massage your head until you eventually find yourself falling asleep on his lap.

You let the door fall shut behind you as you throw your bag into the corner. A long sigh escaped your throat, causing Alhaitham to look up from the book he was currently reading on the sofa.

You dropped down next to him and leaned against his shoulder wordlessly. He lifted one of his arms and pulled your head down to comfortably rest on his lap. He always had the best intuition about what you needed.

“Exhausting day?”

“Mhm.”, you hum.

“Wanna talk about it?”

“No.”

You pause looking up at him with a soft smile that always made his knees turn weak. And he knew what you were about to say. Instinctively he had already begun carding through your hair and massaging your scalp, knowing full well it was the fastest way to calm you down and make you feel better.

“Can you read me from your book?”, you ask with doe eyes.

“This is a book about advanced physics, I don’t think it will be interesting to you, love.”

“I just want to listen to your voice, I don’t care what it is you’re saying, Haitham.”, you say with a sleepy smile.

“Wait, does that mean you’re not listening to me?”, he asked with a smirk and a raised eyebrow.

“Oh shut up you doofus, I know you love it as much as I do. You just don’t want to admit it.”, you giggle. And you were absolutely right. And how could he ever deny your wish?

AYATO

Usually comes to bed really late.

You’re asleep most of the time he finally lays down and he hates it as much as you do. He’d love to go to bed and fall asleep with you together but most of the time it is outside of his ability to do so because of his work as the Yashiro Commissioner.

Yet every night when he comes to bed and sees your sleeping form he lies down next to you and cups your cheek with his palm.

He softly brushes over it with his thumb with his lips curved into a fond smile.

Like most of the time, Ayato leaves his office when the rest of the estate has already fallen quiet. He sneaks down the hallway to your shared bedroom and slowly slides the door open.

You were already lying in bed and were fast asleep. Comfortably cozied up in the blankets and breathing shallowly and calm.

Ayato smiled to himself as soon as he spotted your sleeping form. He slipped into bed next to you and cupped your cheek with his palm. It felt warm underneath his hand and you smiled in your sleep as soon as you felt his familiar touch. If it wasn’t for his self-restraint and unwillingness to disturb your sleep he’d impulsively nuzzle into your chest.

He intertwined his long-slender fingers with yours, squeezing your hand with his, and just lay there for a while, taking in every single one of your features. Observing how your chest rose and fell slowly, how your eyes moved below your lids and how your lips formed into a faint smile whenever you felt his tender touch on your skin.

He smiled and slowly closed his eyes and felt himself drift off into slumber. Maybe he was rarely able to go to bed with you together, but all he needed was to have you by his side.

ZHONGLI

Sometimes you don’t know what you did to deserve Zhongli in your life since he always makes you feel so unconditionally loved.

He is always showing you his love in more ways than one. There are just so many little endearing things he does that make you fall in love every day anew.

One of the many things he does is unpromptedly bring a cup of steaming, freshly-brewed tea to your desk while you are working.

The tea is always brewed with the utmost precision and care. Zhongli has perfectioned brewing your favorite blend down to a T.

You heard a faint knock on the door to your office before it was slowly opened.

You half expected the person walking through the door already but it never failed to bring a smile to your face nonetheless. In his hand, Zhongli was holding a fresh cup of tea and it smelled divine. As usual.

He walked up to your desk and carefully put the cup with the golden liquid down in front of you.

“Thought I’d bring you something to destress.” He donned his handsome signature smile before brushing over your shoulders with one hand. Leaning down he tenderly pressed his lips to your temple.

The little gesture always made your heart flutter in your chest and hold onto the cup as if it was a gift from the gods themselves.

“Let me know if you need anything, my love. I’m just next door.”

“Mh-hm. Will do. Thank you, Li.”, you mused with a content smile

He made sure to press another kiss to your temple before wordlessly heading out of your office again in order to not disturb your workflow further.

As soon as you heard the door click shut you lifted the cup and took a sip from it. The warm liquid spread evenly across your tastebuds and not only did it warm your from the inside out but the thought of Zhongli always pouring his heart into a simple little gesture such as making tea for you made your heart swell as well.

You truly considered yourself the luckiest person in the entirety of Teyvat for being able to call him yours.

HEIZOU

He’s a total tease and that’s what you love so much about him! You never fully know what is going on behind those cheeky eyes.

Frequently sneaks up to you to tickle your sides before hugging you from behind

Honestly, it’s amazing how quiet he can be when he walks.

If you had to guess, both his anemo vision and his profession probably contribute to that.

You were standing in the garden of your home, gazing into the distance where you could make out the faint shoreline in the distance. There was a mild gush of wind blowing in your direction and you closed your eyes, surrendering your senses to the breeze.

Due to that, you missed how the little menace you called your boyfriend snuck up behind you. With a mischievous glint in his eyes and an up-to-no-good smirk plastered on his lips, he lifted his hands up to your waist. He let them hover there for a while before he finally clasped down on your waist and started tickling you with fervor.

Your reaction whenever he did it is what he lived for. You let out a loud squeak and tumbled backward against Heizou’s chest. Unable to control your laughter you felt breathless and tears soon started pooling in your eyes begging him to stop the tireless onslaught on your midriff.

“Hei-Heizou… haha, st-stop it, please. I ca-can’t breathe… hahaha!”

“Hmmm, what did you say, sweetheart? I don’t think I can understand what you’re saying when you’re gasping like that.”

“St-Stop please.”, you shriek. While laughing tears you hopelessly wriggle in his arms. You were desperately trying to get away from his hands until he suddenly stopped and slung both of his arms tightly around you for an embrace. Pressing his face in the crook of your neck and placing a soft kiss there with a mischievous smile. You could feel it despite not actually seeing his facial expression.

“Why didn’t you say so immediately?”, he teased.

“I will make you pay for this later!”

DILUC

Loves being near you and wordlessly lets you know that he is there for you.

At the same time, he doesn’t want to overburden you with his physical touch so it will just be fleeting touches throughout the day.

May it be a short brush with his hand along your waist as he walks past you, grabbing your hand in passing for a little squeeze, or simply pressing a quick kiss to your temple.

He also regularly hooks his pinky finger into your belt loop when you’re in a crowded place with him. Just to make sure you’re staying near so that he can keep you safe.

Today had been an exceptionally busy day at the Dawn Winery. If not the busiest of the entire year for Diluc. The Windblume festival was coming up so he had to take care of all sorts of goods, trading, and setting up a stand at the festival plaza.

You barely got to see him at all throughout the day, but of course, you didn’t mind. You knew he had a lot of things to do. Yet despite that every time he saw you, he let his hand linger on your hip for a while as he passed by you, pressed a quick kiss to your lips before heading out again, or simply gave your hand a little squeeze.

Now it was nearing the end of the day as you finally heard the familiar clink of the door and steps down the hall that you would recognize any time of the day.

“I’m home!”, Diluc yelled.

You promptly rushed towards the foyer and down the stairs and basically jumped straight into his arms. He slung his arms around your shoulders and placed a kiss on the crown of your head with a fond smile. Archons, he hasn’t even been away for a day and his heart already yearned to be close to you.

“I’m glad you’re finally home.”, you cheered, burying your face in his coat. His familiar scent filled your nostrils and made you nuzzle deeper into his chest.

“I’m glad I am, too. I hope I didn’t bother you today by just giving you attention in passing.”, he mumbled with his lips still half-pressed against your forehead.

“Nonsense. I appreciate it more than you can think.”

XIAO

Keeps looking at you full of love every now and then throughout the day.

Grabs your hand and gives it a reassuring squeeze every now and then as well.

A small fond smile forms on his lips and a sparkle appears in his eyes.

Whenever you catch him looking at you he always quickly averts his gaze and a blush starts to bloom across his cheeks.

Xiao and you sat together in silence, watching the sundown enwrap the surroundings of Liyue Harbor in a golden glow. He glanced over at you and watched how you basked in the setting sun with closed eyes and your signature smile painted on your lips. He once again found himself entranced by your beauty. He considered himself to be the luckiest man in the entire world to be able to enjoy such a sight.

Xiao smiled to himself while continuing to watch your sunkissed form beside him and he could feel his heart swell in his chest. He loved you like he never loved before and he wished he could be by your side like this forever.

Silently he scooted a little closer to you and carefully grabbed your hand. He gave it a reassuring squeeze and diverted his attention back to the sunset to prevent you from seeing his flustered expression.

It’s a habit he had formed. No matter if it was because he sensed danger because he sensed you were unwell, or simply because he wanted to be close to you. His hands now naturally found their way to yours. Interlocking your fingers and squeezing them lightly. It was his way of telling you he would always be there for you.

CYNO

You’re the first one he wants to tell his newest jokes to.

Cyno frequently comes up to you to crack another one and it always ends in the same manner.

Nonetheless, it always fills you with an incredible amount of joy… despite how bad they usually are.

You have to admit, the funniest part about his jokes is his reaction to your response to them and not the actual joke. But to be fair, you think that’s the special charm that made you fall for him in the first place.

“A biologist, a chemist, and a statistician are out hunting.”, Cyno recited proudly. His signature smirk was plastered on his face that let you know that he was putting forward a new joke again. “The biologist shoots at a deer and misses 5 feet to the left. The chemist takes a shot and misses 5 feet to the right. The statistician yells, ‘We got 'em!’”

You stare at him with a deadpan expression. The joke was so bad you didn’t even know how to respond and arguably, most people wouldn’t even understand it.

He seemed to mistake your expression for not understanding the joke and began to explain it in lengthy detail.

“See this is funny because statisticians calculate averages and the average of minus five and plus five is zero and–”

“Cyno, stop! It’s already dead!”, you groaned with a giggle.

“No, actually the deer survived because that’s–”

“Honey…”, you interrupted with a half-sigh half-laugh. You walked up to him and put your palm on his chest. “I understood it the first time.”

“Oh.”

THOMA

Regularly leaves already way before you wake up in the morning due to his work obligations.

But despite that, he always makes sure to prepare some breakfast for you.

He knows you often dawdle around in the mornings and forget to eat - not on his watch though.

Whenever you wake up you can be sure he left a little note on the fridge

He also always draws smiley faces or hearts on them.

You shuffled from the bedroom to the kitchen. Slightly cranky you rubbed your eyes and yawned before you sat down at the table.

Out of your peripheral, you spotted a yellow sticky note on the fridge that immediately brought a smile to your face. Thoma may already be at work but he always made sure you felt loved by him. And if you were honest, his little notes always made the start to your day a little easier and happier.

You got up from your chair and peeled the little note off the fridge to read it.

“Good Morning, Angel. There is a little surprise for you today. Love you xoxo.”

In anticipation, you opened the fridge and wondered what breakfast would greet you today. Porridge? Fruit salad? Or maybe… his signature fluffy pancakes?

But as soon as you opened the fridge you couldn’t help but feel disappointed. There was nothing in there. Of course, you knew he didn’t have to make you breakfast but you always looked forward to it.

You couldn’t help but pout and were just about to turn around to get ready for the day in instead when you felt a pair of familiar arms sling around your waist.

“Disappointed?”, Thoma said from behind you with a teasing lilt in his voice.

“Thoma? I thought you were at work.”, you uttered in surprise and turned around in his arms to hug him tightly.

“I got today off. Now then… pancakes?”

“Yes!”

Do not repost, copy, translate or edit - © dustofthedailylife || reblogs, comments, and asks about Genshin or my fics are always greatly appreciated and motivate me! Maple dividers are mine - do not copy.

#genshin impact #genshin fanfic #genshin x reader #alhaitham x reader #ayato x reader #zhongli x reader #heizou x reader #xiao x reader #diluc x reader #thoma x reader #cyno x reader #genshin drabbles #genshin headcanons #genshin fluff #genshin scenarios #genshin imagines #genshin x female reader #genshin x gn reader #🍁 dust writes

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auroratumbles · 4 months

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'falling' in love !

the two of you are just taking a short walk.

unfortunately, your foot, to your dismay, catches on a rock and sends you tumbling forward. immediately, your partner has an arm around your waist, catching you before you hit the ground. a soft laugh escapes their lips as you right yourself.

your face burns as you adjust any accessories that may have been affected by the almost-fall. it doesn’t help when your significant other further adds to the embarrassment with a teasing statement that only makes your face redder.

“hehe, falling for me already?”

- WRIOTHESLEY, LYNEY, VENTI, beidou, KAEYA, LISA, CHILDE, baizhu, YAE MIKO, ayato, dehya

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versadies · 2 years

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CHAPTER SEVEN || DOROTHEA

SYPNOSIS (of chapter). in which conversations are all you need for this joint bachelor party.

CHARACTERS. kamisato ayato, diluc ragnvindr (w/ gn!reader)

CONTENT. angst/fluff, modern!au, ooc ayato (?), mentions of breakup, crying, minor character death, mentions of car accidents, not proofread

PENPALS. @scaraslover @dawgimsohot @kazu-topia @aqualesha @serami00 @serenareiss @hiqhkey @emperatris-rinaka @bystander36 @irisxiel @ladycoleigh @034ven @dear-dairiess @luv3rxcha @hadesaedes @chiro-chiro-kun @hersscherofyatta @mariusvonhangme @zuyoo @nejibot @hoshikistarlette @solaaresque @crowbird @lordbugs @estelwrld @reinvqx @chihawari @moonlightaangel @lonelysimpfor2dmen @sniffoat @mxsomn @jiminscarmex @alice0blog @ylimeprive @irethepotatosblog @irethepotato @elychee @rion-s @denkineptune @starforecasts @franini @sophisticatedleslie @thedivinepriestess @smashsubs @httpmitsuya @cottonkendi @uchihaeirin @abvolat @kokushiboswife @kyomihann @prplbunny @crowleysthings @axeybelle09 @chimsblogg @ys14a @leaunce @q-zrs @phoenixdrake88-blog @giyusimpsassemble @saving-for-xiao @strawberryuns @selfinsertintrovert @sachispet (come visit the taglist post if you'd like to be tagged!)

WORD COUNT. 6.1k words

LINKS. EVERMORE MASTERLIST \ MAIN MASTERLIST \ EVERMORE SURVEY (q&a)

PREVIOUS || NEXT

POST-SCRIPT. i'm not sure if ill be able to post anything next week due to my last exam week, but i promise you guys that i'll start posting frequently once my school ends next month :DD

You don’t feel like you want to attend the joint bachelor party anymore.

Ever since Ayato talked to you by the elevator, you felt like you just wanted a time of peace for today and not face him again, your head still in shambles from what you discovered.

Arranged marriages.. How depressing..

What’s worse is that Chisato, Ayato’s fiancee and future wife, isn’t probably aware of how you’re Ayato’s ex who has come to his wedding, making you wonder and dread just how the poor woman reacts when she finds out.

The last thing you need right now is for things to get worse if people knew about you and Ayato’s past relationship and misunderstood things.

“Welcome, ( Name ) and Mr. Zhongli!” Thoma greeted you two as you entered the Grand Goth Hotel’s function room, you feel amazed by how the room turned out. Thoma really outdid himself in decorating the place, it’s even more magnificent than the hotel’s lobby area.

It’s as if the room is the “night version” of the lobby, with some furnitures and setups glowing beautifully in blue, the roof looking as if there’s stars on them, beautiful flowers made of washi papers displayed by the center of all the tables, chandeliers that are crystal instead of gold, round tables around the room with the wedding couple’s being in the center of it all, everything in the party is definitely praise-worthy and enough for the Kamisato family.

“This place is really amazing, I’m impressed by you, Thoma.” You complimented, too awestruck by the party’s aesthetic to notice the way the blonde-haired man’s face flushes red, flustered by your praise.

“I-I’m glad you like it, ( Name )! I made sure your table is somewhere near the buffet and bar area since I know you’d definitely try to go and get the food often, you can find your seat by the names displayed around the tables.” He spoke, pointing at where your table assumedly is.

Your eyes sparkle. “You’re truly an angel sent from Celestia, Thoma.” You then look at Zhongli, who’s simply watching your interaction with Thoma silently. “Shall we go then, Zhongli?” You ask.

He nods immediately, giving you an encouraging smile. “We shall.”

You look back at Thoma. “We’ll be going then, we don’t want to disrupt you from greeting the next guests.” You said with a small bow.

The blonde-haired man nods in understanding. “I understand, you can find me if there’s anything you want, I’d be happy to help.” Thoma spoke enthusiastically with a thumbs up.

“Alright, see you then Thoma.”

As you and Zhongli are on your way towards your respective tables, your eyes immediately land on the foods displayed by the buffet area. The table was long, filled with countless foods from Mondstadt, Liyue, and Inazuma, waiting to be feast upon by the guests as servers were stationed nearby to serve them.

Your mouth waters at the sight of the delicious meals that you miss from Inazuma.

Soon I’ll have that food in my mouth, you thought to yourself excitedly before you started scanning the names displayed on the tables in hopes of looking for yours and Zhongli.

Thankfully, it didn’t take long to find your table thanks to Zhongli, who instantly pulls your chair for you to sit on, to which you oblige with a quiet “thank you.”

As you seated, you couldn’t help but look at the others displayed on your table, curious to know who would be the guests that’ll be seating beside you and your plus one.

Your eyes widens when you saw one particular name you haven’t seen in ages–

“Who knew Kamisato Ayato would have the balls to invite his ex to his wedding?”

What on earth is he doing here?! You thought, turning around on your seat to see the one person you never thought you’d see anymore.

“...Scaramouche?!” You cried out, standing up immediately as your smile became wide. “Oh wow, it is you!”

Scaramouche rolls his eyes. “Yes, yes. No need to yell my name out loud, I don’t want my sister to know that I’m here, she’ll probably scold me for using the wedding as an excuse to ditch my work.” He slightly opens his arms as an invitation as he speaks, and you instantly hug him excitedly. Despite his rude attitude, the man was sort of tolerable and not as bad as people painted him out to be.

“I can’t believe you’re actually here! What brings you to Ayato’s wedding?” You asked, breaking away from the short hug you and Scaramouche had.

Besides Thoma, Ei was another childhood friend of yours. Thanks to her, you managed to meet Scaramouche, the youngest sibling in the Shogun family and is one year younger than you and Ei.

Despite knowing Ei for so long, you weren’t exactly considered as friends with her brother (but not enemies either) until college whereas the both of you became close after seeing Scaramouche in an… interesting predicament.

“He didn’t invite me if that’s what you’re wondering,” He spoke, causing you to laugh lightheartedly. “I was only dragged here by my colleague. He begged me to come because he didn’t want to look like a loner.”

Before you could question who his colleague is, another voice chimes into your conversation.

“Is that what you’ve been telling others when they ask why you’re here?!” Your eyes widens when you noticed Tartaglia – the ginger-haired man who gave Zhongli breakfast – walking towards you and Scaramouche. “I only invited you because I couldn’t think of anyone at work who isn’t busy. Don’t flatter yourself, little guy.”

You watched in amusement as Tartaglia wrapped his arm around Scaramouche’s neck and ruffled his hair, causing Scaramouche to groan and try to get away from the taller man’s grip in irritation. “Do that again and I’ll leave before the wedding, loner.”

“Hello, Childe.” Zhongli greeted, causing Tartaglia to look at your plus one in surprise.

“Ah, Mr. Zhongli! I didn’t think we’d be at the same table.” Tartaglia commented. enthusiastically before letting go of Scaramouche, who immediately started glaring towards his colleague while fixing his hair. “I also didn’t expect Scaramouche to know your friend. ( Name ) was it?”

You nodded in response, bowing politely at the man. “That’s my name. I’ve heard about you from Zhongli, I’m glad he made a new friend from this trip.”

He smiles, eyeing towards your friend’s direction all the while he and Scaramouche sat down on their seats – with Scaramouche beside you. “Well, you can say that I, uh, have heard of him from a mutual friend of his. He’s quite impressive, I would’ve hired him in my company if he didn’t have a job.”

Soon after Tartaglia’s comment, the last two guests who are on the same table as yours arrived.

“My, my, and here I thought Ei’s dearest brother hated events.” Miko comments as she and Ei stand near their seats, causing you to wave at them. “How did a rascal like you manage to get to the wedding?”

Scaramouche scoffs. “Mind your business, woman.”

The pink-haired woman giggled, pulling her and Ei’s chairs before sitting down. “You still never learned, haven’t I told you to respect your seniors?” She playfully teased.

“You’re no longer a Student Council officer, what’s the point?”

“The point is that I’m still older than you!”

“One year older. It’s not like you’re an old lady.”

“Aww, how flattering! You think I’m young?”

As Scaramouche and Miko continued bantering to one another while Tartaglia started talking to Zhongli, you couldn’t help but feel as if you’re being watched by someone. Is it Ayato again…? Please don’t tell me he’s going to try and talk to me.. You thought to yourself nervously.

You looked around the room to look for the groom, only to find the blue-haired man talking to some of his guests by their table, his back facing towards your direction.

If it’s not him.. then who?

“( Name ), are you alright?” Ei spoke up, causing Scaramouche and Miko’s banter as well as Zhongli’s conversation with Tartaglia to falter for a moment and look at you when the purple-haired woman voices her concern.

You blinked a few times before looking at them back with a surprised look. “O-Oh, I’m alright. I was just spacing out, that’s all.” You reassured, rubbing the back of your neck with a sheepish smile.

They didn’t believe you, but they didn’t try to bring it up. “You should sleep more, ( Name ). Your sleep schedule sometimes worries me.” Ei spoke.

Miko laughs. “Says the one who has the worst sleep schedule.”

“This is not about me, Miko.” Ei spoke, looking away from Miko in embarrassment.

You couldn’t help but snort a little. “Alright, I’ll try not to destroy my sleep schedule.” You said to Ei.

Maybe I was just overthinking about it, You thought, trying not to think about the feeling of being watched.

While waiting for the party and the buffet to start, you decided to have conversations with Ei and the others to pass time, excited to feast on the buffet. Throughout said conversations, you found out Scaramouche didn’t actually arrive at the wedding on the first day of the week and had only arrived just today, making sense as to why Tartaglia has been sitting alone on his table during breakfast.

Surprisingly, Zhongli once associated with the company Tartaglia and Scaramouche worked for for unknown reasons besides the fact that he had chatted with the CEO, who was known for her strong determination and cold personality.

After many minutes had passed, the party began.

“Good evening, welcome to the joint bachelor party!” Thoma spoke through the mic as everyone gave him an applause. “I would like to thank you all for joining the beautiful wedding between Kamisato Ayato and Hiiragi Chisato, we’re glad to have you here.”

You eyed Ayato's table as Thoma continued his speech, only for your eyes to land on hers.

Is Chisato… staring at you?

Your shoulders tenses up when you realize the bride’s eyes are on you, confused as to why she’s now paying attention to you. Did she find out?

You then pretended you didn’t notice, looking back at where Thoma is while praying to Celestia above that she won’t do anything.

“Now as you may know, most bachelor parties include games and even performances from others, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do!” He explains, causing some – especially Itto – to gasp in excitement. “Of course, everyone doesn’t have to participate if they don’t want to, that’s why we provided the buffet area and bar area for you guys to enjoy as you watch others participate in our games.”

You smiled when you spotted Itto and Yoimiya giving each other bets on which one of them was going to win all the while Tartaglia removes his tuxedo jacket to participate as well. As much as you want to join at least one game, you want to eat more.

As though Zhongli had read your mind, he suddenly asks you. “Are you going to the buffet now?”

You nodded in response, standing up from your seat the moment a lot of people stood up as well to participate in the first game. “I’ll be quick, do you want me to get you anything from the buffet?”

Before a word could slip from Zhongli’s mouth, Tartaglia interrupts the conversation. “Mr. Zhongli, we gotta bring you to the trivia game! You’ll definitely win since you’re like a walking encyclopedia, haha!” He said.

“I’m afraid I’d like to pass on this on–”

“Oh and I forgot to mention, the game’s reward is 100k Mora!” Thoma spoke, the amount caused a few, if not all, to cheer loudly.

“...Perhaps it won’t hurt to join, Childe.”

You snorted with laughter when you saw Zhongli removing his tuxedo jacket as well and placing it around his seat, walking side by side with Tartaglia towards the open space where the game takes place.

“Who knew the Kamisato and Hiiragi family would throw games.” Miko comments with an amused hum as she and Ei watch from their seats.

You then look at Scaramouche, who’s currently uninterested in the event going on. “You don’t want to join?” You ask.

Scaramouche scoffs. “As if. I’m only here out of courtesy for the sake of my family.”

You don’t believe a word he said, remembering the time back then when you and Scaramouche got involved in a trivia night at a restaurant near the university, leading him to become competitive and win. It’s safe to say you weren’t surprised when you see his name – or his alias, rather–on the board of the trivia night every time you visit the restaurant, a sign that he’s been visiting for it.

Still, you knew not to push him further, thinking that he decided to not participate for the sake of protecting his dignity. “Suit yourself. Do you want me to get you anything from the buffet?”

Scaramouche shook his head in response, his eyes looking at where the game was.

Without another question in mind, you decided to make a beeline to the buffet area, finding the urge to skip your steps in excitement as the aroma of your delicious native food grew stronger and stronger until you found yourself standing in front of the displayed food.

“Good evening, Mx.! Which one would you like for the night?” The server asks with a polite smile.

–

By the time you get your hands on the foods you like, you try to head back to the table and watch the game, only to stop your tracks when you catch a certain red-haired man serving drinks by the bar.

Wow, they really got Diluc Ragnvindr to serve drinks for their joint party?! You thought in shock, grabbing a bite of your food before heading towards the bar area instead of your table, wanting to have a quick chat with the man.

“Mr. Ragnvindr! Hey!” You greeted, causing Diluc to look away from his customers and look at your direction in surprise.

“Oh, greetings Mx. ( Last Name ).” He greeted politely. “What would you like for tonight?”

“Any juice would do, please. I don’t think I’m in the mood for some alcohol.” You replied, sitting down on a stool as you placed your meal by the counter. “Mind if I stay here for a bit and chat?”

Diluc nods in response, turning around to start making your drink. “Go ahead. Don’t mind me working while you’re at it.”

You took another bite of your food, humming in delight at the taste of your favorite food from your homeland. It’s been so long!

“I didn’t know Mr. Kamisato hired you to be the bartender. How are you?”

“I’m alright, to say the least,” He nods in acknowledgement towards a guest who ordered a drink. “How about you? Are you.. Feeling better?” He asks, referring to the time when you were crying in front of him in the elevator after feeling overwhelmed by Ayato and his father.

You feel a bit embarrassed when you remember that. “I-I uh… I can manage.” You answered, shaking your thoughts away and hoping you’d forget about it.

He then serves you your drink, causing you to thank him gratefully and take a sip.

“This is one great beverage.” You complimented to change the topic, taking more sips of the drink. “Have you been working in the company for a long time?”

Diluc started making another drink for the other guests. “Yes. I took over the company when I was 18 years old–”

You nearly choked on your drink. “18 years old?! That’s so young!” You exclaimed, only to cover your mouth when you realized how loud you were.

You smiled apologetically to the guests beside you who looked at you strangely, looking back at Diluc and started speaking more quietly. “Seriously though, 18? I’m starting to respect you a lot more, Mr. Ragnvindr.”

His mouth twitches up slightly. “Are you saying you didn’t respect me in the beginning?”

“Well, you did bump into my shoulder back then and didn’t apologize – and may I add about the fact that your shoulders are so.. broad? It felt like a bowling ball hit me!”

He stopped making the drink for a moment, taken back by your bold words. Meanwhile, a guest beside you tries to hide his laughter from your comment.

“Well,” Diluc spoke hesitantly, clearing his throat as he proceeded to continue making the drink, “what matters is that I’ve apologized properly, no?”

You took another bite of your meal, nodding in agreement with a smile. “Of course.”

He suddenly asks you a question himself, focused on pouring the finished drink on a glass. “What about you? Where do you work?”

“In Liyue.” You answered quickly, watching as the guest took the glass from Diluc and thanked him. “I originally came from Inazuma but moved to Liyue because of it.”

“Do you miss your home?”

“Everyday.” You glance at where the game is currently being held, quickly spotting Zhongli and your friends participating with determination around them. “Though it’s not like I desperately want to go there. I’m happy in Liyue.”

“That’s good.” Another guest came by the bar and ordered a drink, causing Diluc to start making a drink once more. “It’s your turn to ask a question now.” He spoke.

Somehow, one supposedly quick chat became a q&a conversation.

There was an unspoken agreement between the both of you to not ask anything about your personal lives seeing how all of your questions aren’t related to something about it. Regardless, you still got to know more with the man. You found out he prefers juice more over alcohol, had a pet turtle but currently has a pet bird called Vanessa, and has traveled around the world – something that he was willing to indulge you with as you ask questions about the nations he visited. You’d like to admit that he was also funny despite it being unintentional. You honestly couldn’t believe you’re getting along with Diluc so well – it felt like you could talk to him for hours.

It didn’t take long before you realized your conversation with him lasted for a long time until there was no longer food on your plate.

“I’ll be back to get more food, mind keeping an eye on my drink?” You ask, hopping off from the stool you were sitting on with your empty plate in hand as Diluc obliges to your request. You glance at where the next game is currently in, only to spot Itto and Miko having an eating competition much to your surprise. Are they having a rematch?!

You turned back and continued heading towards the buffet area, thinking of the next meals you can eat. Maybe I should try some of Mondstadt’s food with a mix of Inazuma snacks as well.. You thought.

“Welcome back, Mx.! What would you like this time?” The same server from before greeted you, and you smiled politely.

“I’ll have the…” As you point out the foods you’d like on your plate for the server to give you, you couldn’t help but feel as if there’s someone watching you. Is it her again..?

When the server starts grabbing the food for you, you couldn’t help but glance at Chisato’s direction with worried eyes, shoulders tensing when you notice her eyes on you again. What does she want? Or is she just looking at the food in front of you? You aren’t too sure, but whatever it is, you couldn’t really investigate, knowing it would do nothing but embarrass yourself and make a scene.

“Here it is. Enjoy eating, Mx.!” Your thoughts were instantly interrupted by the server, who seems to not notice your gaze in another direction.

“Th..Thank you.” You said before walking back to the bar, your mind was purged with thoughts on why Chisato was staring at you. Unlike earlier, you couldn’t ignore your thoughts. This should be a coincidence, right?

You arrive in the bar just in time when the game ends, with Itto standing proudly with his prize as Miko watches from behind in amusement. Diluc was quick to notice your quick change of demeanor, causing him to slightly furrow his brows in confusion and worry.

“Here’s your drink.” He spoke, placing your untouched drink in front of you as you sat down on your stool. “Did something happen?”

“Ah, no. It’s nothing.” You were quick to respond to his question, covering up your conflicted look with a smile as you tried to think of an excuse. “I was just uh, bummed that the buffet ran out of a certain dish and are currently making them right now.” You lied.

“I see…” Diluc hums in understanding, now wiping a glass. “No worries, I’m sure you’ll get the food once it’s finished. Would you like a refill on your drink, by the way?”

You glance down at your drink, seeing how it’s almost empty. “Yes please.” Maybe I’m just overthinking about this… You thought to yourself, watching as the bartender fills up your drink with juice.

The next hour felt like a blur.

You continued talking to Diluc as usual all the while the games went on, taking turns in asking each other questions until nothing was left for you to ask. There were times when you almost spaced out from thinking about Chisato, but thankfully, Diluc made you wake up to reality.

You then decided to go to the bathroom nearby, hopping off from your seat once more. “I’ll go to the bathroom for a while, I’ll leave these with you, if that’s alright.” You said.

He nods in response. “Of course. Take your time as long as you need it.”

Without another word, you went off to find the bathroom, heading out to the doors that led you to the hallway that contains the bathroom, kitchen, storage room, and the terrace. Despite being a bit far from where the venue is, the sound of Thoma’s voice could still be heard. It seems that the games have finally ended and the performances would be next to be in the spotlight.

When you finally found the bathroom, you immediately opened it and went in.

After a few minutes, you finished your business and walked out from the comfort room, feeling refreshed and ready to go back to the venue. You wondered if Diluc would ever be able to go off from his shift and watch the upcoming performances with you–

What am I thinking? You thought, furrowing your eyebrows to yourself. It’s not like something would come out from hanging out with someone like Diluc after the wedding. You’re pretty sure he’s a super busy person and only had the luxury of time to talk to someone like you, an unimportant person with no company nor fortune–

You stopped your tracks when you heard the sounds of a woman sobbing.

You realized you’re near the terrace, causing you to assume that the woman who’s sobbing is there crying for reasons that you can’t pry on. How pitiful, you thought with a concerned frown.

When you glance at the woman, your eyes widen at the familiar figure of Ayato’s future wife.

…Why is a bride crying at a supposedly happy occasion?

You didn’t have to think deeply on that answer, swallowing the lump down your throat. There’s no way that she doesn’t know about you and Ayato now.

You aren’t sure if you should come to the woman and offer her your unused handkerchief or not. If you wouldn’t, your conscience would’ve eaten you alive. If you would, you’d have the possibility of embarrassing yourself or making Chisato angry due to you not minding your business–

“Mx. ( Last Name )?” You flinched in surprise when you heard the bride’s voice, causing you to look at her with wide eyes.

Chisato stood by the rails, staring at you with the same expression as you as well. “I.. uh..” She spoke, unsure what to say to you as she tried to wipe her overflowing tears away.

“I apologize, I didn’t mean to catch you off-guard, Ms. Hiiragi.” You spoke, bowing politely.

“N-No, it’s alright,” She spoke softly with a sniff. “It’s my fault for crying in such a public space, I didn’t mean to be a burden for anyone – let alone my guest.”

You shook your head reassuringly. “There’s no need to apologize, and you’re not a burden to me that’s for sure.” You suddenly took a few steps forward towards the bride, offering her your untouched handkerchief that you brought out from your pocket. “Here, you can use this to wipe your tears away.”

Chisato hesitated for a moment before letting out a soft sigh in defeat, shyly grabbing it from your hand. “Thank you…”

You smiled politely in response, deciding that you should leave her alone and go back to the bar–

However, you stopped yourself from walking out, not when you heard her speaking once more. “Could you…” She stops talking for a moment, as if she now wants to take it back. “Could you answer me something, if you don’t mind…?”

Your shoulders tenses.

“...I don’t mind…”

Silence fell between the two of you for a few seconds, the sounds of the music from the venue was the only thing that was heard besides the busy streets outside the hotel.

Chisato inhales sharply. “Are you and Ayato together?”

You processed the question, swallowing the lump down your throat. “...Back then in college.”

Too scared to look at the woman in her eyes, you turned around and closed the doors behind you, not wanting anyone to hear what you know will be a long conversation.

“Before… Before my relationship with him?” Chisato asks, her tone sounded fearful, as if she’ll hear something she doesn’t want to hear.

You nodded in response, slowly turning back from the doors to her direction. “Don’t worry, he didn’t have an affair behind your back at all. We broke up months ago before you announced your relationship with him publicly.”

“…Why?”

“...” You hesitated for a moment, unsure whether or not it’s best that you should tell her. What would happen if you were to tell her about Ayato leaving you because of the arranged marriage? Does she even know it’s an arranged marriage?

You didn’t have to ask to find that out.

“Is it because… of our marriage?” Chisato asks, her voice shaking.

Your silence was all she needed to know.

She lets out a shaky breath, and you close your eyes shut in fear that she’ll react badly.

Much to your surprise, you only felt warmth wrapped around you.

“I’m sorry.” She sobbed, and you realized she’s hugging you. “I’m so sorry– I.. This is all my fault. I didn’t know – I-I swear, I didn’t!”

You didn’t know what to do as the bride continued to cry, hesitating to hug her back.

Why is she sorry..? If anything, you feel like you should be the one to apologize for ruining her wedding.

You could feel her shaking. “If I had known earlier, I would’ve tried to break the engagement off! No wonder why Ayato always looked so miserable.” She spoke.

“It’s.. It’s alright, Ms. Hiiragi. It’s all in the past, it’s not your fault.” You reassured the woman, slowly patting her back awkwardly. You honestly hope no one who’d walk past the terrace would eavesdrop on your conversation.

She shakes her head. “No, it’s not alright. You could’ve been the one marrying Ayato instead and he could’ve been happier with you than with me, you deserve better tha–”

“It’s okay, Ms. Hiiragi,” You said softly. “If.. If anything, I don’t love him anymore.”

The bride was speechless, sniffing quietly. You took this as your chance to continue talking more. “Yes.. I was deeply heartbroken, but I’m slowly moving on now. I don’t think I want to ruin that, let alone ruin someone’s wedding, so it’s okay. I’ll be alright.”

The woman continues to wipe her tears away. “Still.. Even when you’re okay, Ayato isn’t.” She whispers. “If I could, I could cancel the wedding right away – but my father is… not someone who can be easily convinced.”

You frowned. “Your father..?”

“He’s the reason why this engagement happened in the first place.” Chisato explains. “Between me and you, I only accepted it for the sake of my family’s business, and I eventually fell in love with Ayato.”

Seeing the way her eyes soften, you couldn’t help but be reminded of your old self. “Do you love him a lot?”

She nodded. “With all of my heart. I haven’t told anyone about this but.. He reminds me of my old lover. His name was Kamaji.”

Your eyes widen. Is she talking about Kujou Kamaji? Isn’t he Sara’s broth–

Oh.

Chisato notices the way your face morphed into shock, thinking that you knew who she was talking about. “You may have heard of him from a friend of yours – Kujou Sara, right?” She asks.

You nodded, sympathy flashes in your eyes. “...My condolences.”

The death of the supposed heir of the Kujou Company was not unheard of in Inazuma thanks to the news. He was unfortunately involved with a car accident when he was on his way somewhere, causing him to pass away from blood loss. Due to this, the Kujou Company had crumbled for a month, with Kamaji and Sara’s father falling into depression that his son had passed away and had no choice but to give his company to his adopted daughter, Sara. Eventually, he came to accept that Sara is a great CEO with how she managed to quickly bring the business back to its prosperity in such a short time.

She lets go of the hug between the two of you, wiping off the last of her tears from her face. “I thought I’d never fall in love again after his death, but then Ayato came and… I couldn’t help but be reminded of him.”

She then quickly clarifies, “O-Of course, I love Ayato as himself and not because I see Kamaji in him. I just… feel happy that I get to meet someone as kind as Ayato and be happy, just like what Kamaji wanted.” She inhales sharply. “But I feel so hopeless with this situation and I don’t know what to do.”

You think of a response silently. As much as you’re aware of the fact that you’re most likely the only person Chisato could talk to about her and Ayato’s now complicated relationship, you knew you can’t do anything.

“I can’t be of help to you,” You spoke honestly. “I can answer your questions, but I can’t speak for Ayato entirely. Your best shot is to just have a heart-to-heart conversation with him. He has to move on eventually.”

She listened to your words intently. “You’re right..” She glances at where the venue is. “If I really can’t stop the wedding myself, then I might as well make sure to be there for Ayato when he needs it.”

She then looks back at you with a grateful look on her face. “Thank you for this. I.. I feel better now.”

“What are you going to do now?” You ask.

“I’m not sure,” She said hesitantly, “I suppose I have no choice but to continue the wedding, seeing how there’s no hope for anyone to stop it, but I’m really sorry that this happened to you and Ayato.”

“It’s alright.” You reassured her once more, smiling in sadness. “I wish you and Ayato happiness in your marriage.”

Chisato then hugs you once more, causing you to feel taken back by surprise.

“I wish you happiness too, ( Name ).” She wishes. “I’ll try my best to be there for Ayato.”

You aren’t sure what made you feel overwhelmed, was it because of how understanding Chisato is despite having the right to be angry? The fact that you no longer have any worries about this wedding anymore? Or was it the fact that you didn’t know you needed a hug so much until now?

Whatever it was, it made you feel something that you’ve always wanted to do.

It’s time for me to be happy again.

–

What’s taking them so long? Diluc wonders as he constantly glances around the venue room to look for the familiar sight of you amongst the crowds, only to see nothing at all.

He has to admit, you’re one interesting company to be with. The both of you instantly clicked and much to his surprise, he didn’t even know an hour had passed during your conversation until he checked his watch after you left to get your second meal. Your conversation honestly felt like he was talking to an old friend after not meeting with them for so long – he wouldn’t be surprised if you two knew each other back when you’re kids.

He hears someone clearing his throat nearby, causing the bartender to turn around and look at who he assumes to be another guest who’d like a drink–

“Lovely evening, Mr. Ragnvindr.” Ayato spoke, bringing his glass on top of the counter. “How’s the bar so far? Is everyone enjoying the drinks, I hope?”

Diluc hums in response. “Fortunately, yes.” Seeing how the glass Ayato is holding is empty, the bartender asks him. “What would you like for tonight, Mr. Kamisato?”

“Your best wine, please.” He answers, and Diluc could instantly tell the way the atmosphere around them changes. “I’d also like for you to answer my question.”

The bartender furrows his eyebrows. “...Alright.”

It took Ayato a few seconds to ask his question, looking straight at Diluc’s eyes with a blank look on his face. “How do you feel towards Mx. ( Last Name )?”

The bartender didn’t expect him to ask such a thing. What the hell does he mean by that?

“..Pardon?” Diluc asks.

Ayato’s face remained the same. “What’s your feelings with Mx. ( Last Name )?”

The red-haired man slowly brings out the best bottle of wine from the mini-fridge beneath the counter before he proceeds to pour it in Ayato’s glass, clearing his throat. “I’ll admit, I enjoyed talking with Mx. ( Last Name ). However, there’s nothing serious going on between us.” He answered vaguely.

The groom continues to silently stare down at his glass that’s now filled with his drink, taking in on the bartender’s answer to his question.

“...I see.” Ayato said, his smile appearing. “I hope that’ll continue, Mr. Ragnvindr.”

Diluc raises an eyebrow, letting the other man proceed to talk more. “I know you, Mr. Ragnvindr. Your background is quite interesting, don’t you think?” He adds.

“With all due respect, you don’t know me completely, Mr. Kamisato.”

“Not completely at least,” Ayato agrees. “But I know you enough to know that you should leave Mx. ( Last Name ) alone.”

“Oh? And what part of my background is enough for me to leave them alone?”

“You know what I’m talking about, Mr. Ragnvindr.” Ayato glances around the venue cautiously before looking at Diluc once more. “Haven’t you noticed that the wind is going strong(1) nowadays?”

Diluc’s face instantly drops from his words, knowing what the groom meant as he glances around the venue as well. Truth to what he said, there were a few people glancing towards his way with caution and questionable stares.

Ayato hops off from his stool, grabbing his glass. “I’m sure you’re aware of my relationship with Mx. ( Last Name ) back then, but even though we’re no longer acquainted with one another, I still worry for their sake.” He then took a sip. “Feel free to continue being with Mx. ( Last Name ), but I do hope your relationship with them will remain as friends and nothing more, unless you intend to hurt them.”

The other man stayed silent, watching as the groom took his leave.

…Maybe he’s right, Diluc thought to himself, putting back the wine bottle in the mini-fridge. But it’s up for Mx. ( Last Name ) to decide if they want to continue chatting with me. We’re just friends after all.

He wonders why he feels so hurt at that thought.

DAN’S NOTES !

“Haven’t you noticed that the wind is going strong(1) nowadays?” — idk if theres smthn like this in google since i made this up, but this quote basically means there are rumors around, meaning that there’s been a rumor about you and diluc.

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