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Walking the eleventh floor halls of the Lang dorm building, Abel began to feel… something he couldn’t quite put his finger on as he and Abyss approached the laters shared dorm room.
He was not yet ready to part ways, but they could only spend so much time in the common areas studying for exams. Still, he wanted to spend more time with Abyss and oh, maybe this feeling was apprehension. He wanted to spend more time together, and was worried that Abyss would not.
It came as a surprise when, just a few steps from the dorm room door, Abyss spoke.
“Lord Abel, may I join you for evening tea?”
Abel turned to look at Abyss, the barest hint of shock evident to the boy who had studied Abel so diligently.
“Of course, I would quite enjoy your company, Abyss.”
And so they continued to Abel’s dorm, taking off their shoes and hanging up their robes as they entered.
“Shall I prepare the tea?” Abyss asked.
“No, thank you. You are my guest, please make yourself comfortable and I will serve the tea shortly.”
Abyss set his sword down to lean against the couch and sat down, settling close to the rolled arm. As Abel did not share his dorm room, there was a couch, an armchair, an extra end table with a lamp, and a coffee table where a second bed would normally take up space. The couch was upholstered in luxurious purple velvet, and while the cushions and pillows were quite plush, one did not sink in and get stuck.
Tucked into the corner nearest to the fire and furthest from his sword, Abyss watched as Abel set Mother down on the nightstand next to his bed, and then expertly prepared their tea and snacks in his small kitchenette, thanking him as he set them down on the table. A plate of fruits and veggies accompanied the special blend of tea gifted to Abel by another student.
“Honey and lemon?” Asked Abel.
“Yes, Lord Abel.” Replied Abyss.
“It is just you and I; you may cease with such a formal title.”
“Yes, my L… Yes, Abel. I would like honey and lemon, thank you.”
Abel nodded as he poured the tea into teacups, drizzling honey and squeezing a freshly cut lemon quarter into one cup, and adding just lemon to the second. He then sat in the chair across the coffee table from the couch.
But this type of interaction always left Abyss reeling, even just for a bit, as his feelings for Abel were scattered and convoluted. By solely designating him to the role of a leader, Abyss was able to narrow his point of view, blocking out any… unnecessary thoughts that may occur while in Abels proximity. Thoughts such as…
“Does it bother you that I call you Lord?”
Abel hesitated for a single second as he lowered his teacup.
“It does not bother me under certain circumstances. But I am more than the leader of Magia Lupus, and I want to be more than the leader of Magia Lupus to you.”
Abyss went to speak, but Abel held up a hand, signaling that he was not yet done.
“You, Abyss, are my most prized tool. You are trustworthy, capable, and reliable. I know, without a doubt, that any task I assign to you will be completed with the diligence I usually only find within myself.”
Abel noted, not for the first time, the blush that crept up the ears and along the cheeks of Abyss as he complimented his talents, and it sent butterflies straight to his belly.
“You have earned my respect, and in turn I hope to earn yours as more than a leader. I hope to earn your trust as a friend and confidant.”
With that sentiment, Abel took another sip of his tea, eyeing Abyss to gauge his reaction.
Abyss had been ready to blurt out something along the lines of “You are so much more than the leader of Magia Lupus to me. You are the only person to believe in my abilities, to see the potential in this cursed eye and assist me in utilizing its terrible power. You are everything to me, the only person I have come to love.” Instead he said:
“You are so much more than the leader of Magia Lupus to me. You are the only person to believe in my abilities, to see the potential in this cursed eye and assist me in utilizing its terrible power. You have earned my trust as a leader, and I would be honored to be counted among your friends.”
Abyss took a few sips of his own tea, trying his hardest to calm the flush he felt across his face and to control the smile that threatened to split his face in two. He had never spoken so candidly with Abel, and he had almost told him he loved him! Instead he had accepted an offer of friendship, which sent a rush of warmth through him.
Abel popped a mini tomato into his mouth, chewing slowly as he digested Abyss’ words. Abyss had never spoken to him with such candidness before, and while it was very much welcome, it still sent Abel into a spiraling anguish. Had he just regulated himself to friendship, when he truly wanted so much more? Was Abyss trying to convey that he would only be Abels friend since he had offered that olive branch first? Was their relationship truly reduced to one of master and tool, with such flimsy excuses as studying and evening tea as a means of meaningful conversation? But then Abel caught the smile that was playing around Abyss’ lips, and saw that his blush had deepened, and his anxiety eased. This was a good start, a wonderful stepping stone to further their relationship.
“Let’s celebrate our burgeoning friendship. I have a wonderful bottle of wine that will pair well with the fruit, I would love for you to have a drink with me.”
“But Lo… Abel, we aren’t of age! We could face severe consequences!” Abyss exclaimed. He had never drank before, and with unknown punishments possibly looming, he was quickly deciding that now may not be the time to start.
“Do not worry. I partake in a glass or two with my super occasionally. There is no harm, and no punishments will befall us. Wait here, I’ll pour each of us
a small amount, to see if you like the taste.”
And with that, Abel stood and walked to his armoire, opening the doors and moving aside he neatly hung shirts. Behind them was a shelf, with two or three small bottles and two wine glasses. He selected one of the bottles and grabbed both glasses, returning to the sofa. He then sat down next to Abyss, and as he set down the bottle and glasses he had a thought.
“Have you ever drank alcohol before, Abyss?”
Abyss was very aware of his… sheltered upbringing. There were a great many things he had yet to do, as there had just never been an opportunity, and drinking an alcoholic beverage was one of them. His lack of experiences in what seemed so normal to others always made him feel self-conscious, but he was with Abel, and Abel had never judged him for his ignorance in everyday acts.
“I have not.” He responded shyly, avoiding Abel’s gaze.
“I hope you like this one. It is a white wine, on the sweeter side. It goes well with peaches, nectarines, and delicate cheeses.” Abel said as he poured them each a small glass, gently sliding one glass towards Abyss.
“Keep the glass on the table, and slowly swirl the glass in a circular motion. This helps to aerate the wine, awakening its flavor.” Abel demonstrated as he spoke. “Yes, just like that. Now, bring the glass to your nose and inhale; you should smell the underlying fruity aroma.”
“I do. It is faint, but I do smell fruit. After the initial scent of alcohol, it smells almost… juicy.” Abyss commented.
“Now take a sip, and allow the wine to rest on your tongue for a moment.
Really taste it.”
Abyss did as he was told, allowing the wine to coat his tongue, relishing in the sweetness that exploded over his taste buds before swallowing. He then took another sip, and smiled a bit as he tasted a new flavor.
“Each sip is a little different, I can taste different flavor notes each time. How exhilarating, I see how and why you would pair this with fruit and cheese.” He said, then bit into a slice of nectarine. “This is delicious!” He exclaimed after swallowing.
“I am quite happy that you are enjoying the wine and fruit.” Abel replied, then took a sip of his own glass. He had purposely chosen this particular bottle for its flavor profile based on the fruit he had prepared earlier, and it was performing admirably. He enjoyed watching Abyss take a sip and then take a bite of nectarine or pop a grape into his mouth, experimenting with the different flavor pairings.
“Now try the cheese and nectarine together.”
Abel almost smiled at the look of joy on Abyss’ face as he bit into the cheese topped slice of stone fruit. He watched as Abyss chewed slowly, savoring the bite, and then took the final sip of his wine, a small content smile pulling the corners of his lips up.
“How delightful. You mentioned this is a white wine, and I know of red wine. Are there other varieties, too? Do certain grapes affect the taste of the wine? I have so many questions.”
“I will answer any I can.” Said Abel as he poured another half glass for Abyss and himself.
And so their night continued, Abyss sipping and asking questions regarding his new favorite non-academic subject, and Abel answering his questions to the best of his ability. Before they knew it, the clock struck eleven and the last of the bottle had been poured. Abyss was slightly flushed and a bit giggly, but still had clear eyes, Abel noted. He reached out and gently pushed Abyss’ bangs to the side, out of his eye-line.
“Your bangs have gotten quite long.” He observed, tenderly twirling strands of Abyss’s face-framing fringe around his finger.
“Ah, they have. I haven’t had much free time, with exams right around the corner.” Abyss replied as he leaned into the touch. “This is nice, having my hair played with. I don’t allow others to touch my hair, I haven’t for some time.”
Abel paused his ministrations. “I apologize, I did not mean to invade your personal space.” He said as he lowered his hand.
Abyss’ heart skipped a beat or two; he hadn’t meant to share something so personal, nor did he wish for Abel to stop. He had learned the incredibly hard way to keep to himself, and had long since silenced the urge to share, to find comfort in physical touch. But this was Abel, one of the few to have never caused him harm. And they are friends now, right? Surely Abyss could be completely honest with him.
“Since you and I are friends, you are the sole exception. You may continue.” Abyss said shyly, feeling his wine-flushed cheeks warm even further. “I enjoy your touch.”
Abel stared at Abyss, who's cheeks were dusted pink, eyelids lowered, openly welcoming his touch. This was completely unexpected. He knew some of the hardships Abyss had suffered, had noticed his careful tendency to fade into shadows and avoid any unnecessary contact with others. He then came to understand why when he began to actively observe how others treated the boy with the Evil Eye, the disdain evident in their every interaction with him. So he had kept his distance, respecting the boundary Abyss had made clear was present. But now he was opening up, offering something Abel was sure he had never offered to anyone before. The simple yet intimate act of physical connection.
Abel shifted closer to Abyss, slowly bringing a hand up and behind Abyss’ head, gently pulling off the elastic keeping his hair in a high ponytail. He watched in carefully concealed awe as Abyss’ sky blue hair tumbled down, pooling on the seat of the sofa, his hand lowering to his lap. Abel had never put much thought into just how long Abyss’ hair was, and it was absolutely stunning when down, framing his entire torso. Abel allowed himself several moments to slowly take in the full beauty of Abyss’ hair, how it shifted in tone and changed colors as the light of the flickering fire caught it. How his bangs were cut to accentuate his cheekbones. How soft it looked.
He reached up with both hands, fingers easily sliding through silky strands, mesmerized by the softness. He ran his fingers through multiple times, starting near the scalp and raking through to the perfectly manicured ends. As he did he shifted his gaze back to Abyss’ face, who was now blushing bright pink and had closed his eyes.
“Your hair is magnificent. It enhances your natural beauty.”
Abyss’ eyes flew open to see Abel looking at him with a burning intensity. It was a look he had never seen before, one he was unable to decipher. But one he enjoyed; it felt as if Abel only had eyes for him, as if he were someone precious.
“Thank you.” He whispered, dropping his gaze for a moment. When he looked up through his eyelashes, he saw Abel had moved his eye-line to the clock hanging from the wall.
“My, I did not realize it had become so late. I think it would be quite rude to return to your dorm room at such an hour; you may disturb Wirth.”
Abyss’ gaze followed Abel’s, and he saw that it was nearing midnight. His face fell as he became aware of the time.
“Ah, I’ll be sure to be quiet. I have imposed on you long enough tonight, I could not ask to spend any more time in your space.
“Then I shall ask you to spend the night. You know how Wirth can be, he’ll be quite upset if he has fallen asleep and you wake him. He’ll complain about his study schedule being interrupted, and I would prefer to avoid that conversation if possible.”
And with that Abel drained his glass and stood, walking back to his armoire to withdraw two sets of pajamas.
“You may wash up first; I will put away the food and our drinks.”
Abyss was trying to formulate a rebuttal, but the wine made thinking with mixed emotions harder than usual. He truly did not wish to intrude any longer, but the thought of sleeping in Abel’s clothes sent shivers down his spine and his thoughts reeling. He accepted the offered sleep attire, and retreated to the private bathroom within Abel’s room. There, he splashed cold water on his face, trying to release the haze that had clouded his thoughts and cool his flushed cheeks. He looked at himself in the mirror and smiled; he was going to spend the night in Abel's room. In his clothes. And after he had so gently ran his fingers through his hair. Abyss blushed even brighter, and gave up on the cold water. He changed into the pajamas, tied his hair into a loose top knot, folded his own clothes neatly, and exited the wash room. Abel had already cleared the coffee table, and was now preparing his bed.
“Do you have an extra pillow and blanket?”
“I do have a pillow for you, but not an extra blanket. I do not mind sharing with you.”
This confused Abyss. How could they share a blanket when the sofa was so far from the bed?
“How can we share a blanket when the sofa is so far from the bed?” He asked, placing his clothing down on the table next to the dresser.
“I would not ask you to spend the night and allow you to sleep on the couch, Abyss. We will share my bed, unless you have an objection?”
Abyss did want to object. How could he sleep in Abel’s bed?! How could he sleep with Abel in Abel’s bed?! Just thinking about it seemed so intimate; how could he possibly fall asleep in such close proximity to the boy he had feelings for? What if he did fall asleep, and moved too much, interrupting Abel’s slumber? What if he had one of those nightmares, and hurt Abel in his sleep? Abyss was once again working hard to devise a coherent thought, to articulate his feelings on the matter, and failing miserably. So he settled on following Abel’s directive, said “No, Abel, I have no objections.” and walked to awkwardly stand next to Abel by the bed.
“Good. You may lie down; I will change.”
Abyss slipped into the bed, moving to lie closest to the wall. He pulled the blanket up around him, snuggling into the pillow. He watched as Abel entered the washroom and shut the door behind him, and let out the breath he had not been aware he had been holding. He then turned to lie on his side, facing the room, and buried his face in the pillow. He inhaled deeply, basking in Abel’s scent that now surrounded him completely. He settled in, his mind settling with him. He decided he liked wine, it pushed him to seize opportunities he would normally turn down. His gaze shifted back to the washroom as Abel exited, and watched as he walked around the room, extinguishing candles; placing and arranging new logs on the fire; pouring each of them a glass of water. Abel padded to the bed and offered a glass to Abyss.
“Please drink this, it is wise to stay hydrated when drinking alcohol.”
Abyss sat up to accept the offered glass, downing the entire contents in a few gulps.
“Would you like another glass?” Abel was eying him with a look that only Abyss could tell was amusement.
“Yes, I would, thank you.” He replied, handing the empty glass back to Abel.
He returned shortly, and Abyss took longer to finish his second glass, handing it once more to Abel to place on the nightstand before snuggling back into the covers.
Abel slid under the covers too, lying on his side to face Abyss.
“Are you comfortable?”
“Yes, I am.”
“Good. I had a great time with you tonight, and I’m happy you decided to spend the night. I hope we do this again; time spent alone with you is quite enjoyable.” Abel then turned to lie on his back, closing his eyes.
“Goodnight, Abyss.”
Abyss did the same, lying on his back and letting his eyes fall closed. “I would like to do this again soon, too. Goodnight, Abel.”
*****
Abel woke to a magnificent view. Abyss’ hair had come undone during the night, fanning around him. The sun came shining through the curtains, dancing in the light blue of Abyss’ hair, catching silver like strands and surrounding his peaceful sleeping face in a beautiful aura.
Yes, they would do this again soon, Abel decided as he tenderly caressed Abyss’ cheek.