[djhld-!! Makoto is abruptly turning red as he stares at his comm device. He appreciates it but it was still extremely embarrassed as well. Not of JJ, of himself and the whole situation as a whole.]
Thank you, I appreciate it. I'll try to remember that.
[He does really appreciate it though. And a few moments later, he added:]
[Speaking of?! Is he already going to ask-- oh. No. He isn't. Makoto wasn't sure he was mentally prepared right this second so he can't help the small sigh of relief.]
[Nnrgh... why are you waking him up so early, Sousuke? It's... oh, okay, it's like almost noon, nevermind. He still sounds tired as he rubs his face.]
'M fine. Sorry, I didn't mean to worry you though. I've just been at a friend's house because of... um...
[How do you even word what's been going on? That being said, Sousuke might hear some faint singing in the background due to said friend (JJ) singing while cooking in the kitchen.]
[He managed to wake up a little further because of the conversation, making it a point to sit up with a yawn on the couch. He didnβt even remember crashing there but he also wasnβt too surprised.]
Yeah. Cordis gives you pheromones and I guess they were... uh... strong?
[Awkward but also true. He did chuckle tiredly at the last bit.]
Yeah. If heβs not talking he finds another way to make noise. Kinda like Nagisa.
I feel like Iβm still learning, to be honest. Never really thought Iβd be talking about this sort of thing so casually.
[It was embarrassing in a lot of respects but he had taken it one day at a time. It wasnβt too mind blowing after awhile, although it wasnβt like Lunatia as a whole couldnβt throw him for a loop. It did often enough.]
Yeah, I feel the same way here. There's a lot going on here that I never thought I'd have to deal with. Or at least, not like the way they deal with it here.
[ They'll get used to it eventually. It's not that it's bad, just that it's not like what they're used to ]
I've been doing alright? You, uh, missed me during Sanguis. [ a beat ] Apparently I'm a dog.
I mean, I didn't have to do it, but I did. I made it last night, actually. I was always traveling when my birthday came up between training and other things, so I was excited to celebrate and didn't even think about just buying one.
[ and -- it's not like he doesn't have enough chroma or something ]
[He laughed again, pressing the phone between his shoulder and ear as he set down the dog bowl for Biscuit and went to grab Cake's bowl to get her food ready.
She leapt onto the counter, bell chiming as she waited.]
Well, them let me treat you to dinner or something since you already got yourself dessert. I didn't even know it was coming up, you should have told me! I would have gotten you something.
[ As if Cake can actually hear him. But he's happy to acknowledge the other being there. He happily is moving about the kitchen, cleaning up the remainder from his cake baking the night before. He's blushing a little, though it's not evident. ]
Dinner is good, then. And...well, I don't want anything, really. Just to spend time with someone I like. I don't want anyone to worry about it.
[He wished could think up a gift at the last minute, but there was no use fretting about it if JJ didn't want him to. So, he would just need to pick a good place for the birthday dinner to happen.]
[Or anything else, yes. The last bit got Makoto blushing though, not that JJ could see it. He did stammer a bit, though as he placed the bowl of food down for Cake to start chowing down.]
A-Ah... yeah. I mean, no! It wouldn't be a bad treat.
[ He's nervous in ways that are hard to explain. It's not that he hasn't been nervous before. Usually he's only nervous before competition, interviews, meetings - things like that. He's never been nervous in his personal life. He wasn't with Isabella, even when he proposed to her.
It's like - excited nervous, if he were to put words on it. He pats his pocket to make sure the main event is in place and glances around the entrance of the house and the kitchen, where he still has a few things finishing up for the other.
The cake was a single-tier cake, chocolate through and through. It was sitting neatly on the counter - Happy Birthday Makoto written by him. For dinner - he made green curry with rice and picked up some meat buns at a nearby bakery. It's not too much, he thinks, but he's never really sure what crosses a line.
He tried to do...not as much as he'd normally do.
Besides, he thinks doing his typical level of extra plus proposing might be...too much? He's trying, at least. He listened. He doesn't think the other has an idea that he's doing this - he hopes not, at least. He had gotten the rings from that shop over a month ago and tucked them away.
When Makoto gets to the kitchen, he'll find JJ stirring the curry, making sure it doesn't burn as it simmers. ]
[While Makoto wasn't exactly super surprised at the smell of dinner and cake in the house, it was his birthday, after all, he was a little curious at why JJ was acting different than his usual excitable energy. He was still energetic and excitable, don't get him wrong, but he could tell there was something else behind it. He wasn't sure what. But he figured JJ would tell him eventually.
Besides, if he knew part of it was JJ being unsure if this was too much, he would have told him from the get-go that it wasn't. Dinner and a birthday cake was just the right amount for Makoto. While he didn't mind having a party or anything like that, he preferred that with his friends and most of them weren't here. So, he was happy with just this much.
So, to try and perhaps calm JJ just a little bit, Makoto padded over to the stove and slipped his arms around JJ's middle, resting his chin on a broad shoulder.]
[ He's so good to him. JJ sometimes considers that he doesn't deserve Makoto. Mostly when he's alone because that's the only time that if his feelings show - it won't bother anyone else. Those periodic doubts were nothing next to the overwhelming confidence that he felt the rest of the time in this relationship. Makoto knows him well. He knows JJ's different types of smiles, his energy, the way he expresses himself. Makoto has used their months together and JJ doesn't mind one bit. You don't take time to learn someone like that if you don't love them.
He was always going to be better at that part than JJ was. And that was okay to him. It was one of the many things he loved about the other. He had rehearsed the proposal in his head a few times, and each time it was different. So, JJ settled on - saying what he feels at the time he did it.
He didn't want it to sound rehearsed. And when Makoto's arms settled around him, JJ relaxed into the other, put on an easy and pleased smile, and tilted his head towards him. ]
Of course! [ A small hum ] I'd do this every day if you asked! I'd do more, even. As much as you want!
[ It was part of how JJ showed he cared. Then he said: ]
[Makoto was pretty sure JJ didn't realize that he was good to him as well. Having someone to counterbalance his own lower energy levels, handle his sometimes ornery attitude and exasperation, it was a nice. He wasn't exactly like Nagisa, but it was close but it was a way that complimented Makoto.
He laughed quietly and pressed his lips to JJ's neck.]
I might have to take you up on that. But I'd also like to keep learning too.
[He likely would never be as good as JJ, but he liked being able to try and take over in the kitchen if only to give JJ a break.
He blushed and smiled against JJ's neck. His stomach fluttered at those words.]
Love you too. is it almost done? Do you want any help?
[ It's so easy for him to be happy around Makoto. It's so easy for him to be himself around Makoto. There's no stage and performances and he can be fully himself. The smiles come naturally, his voice is easy going. There's none of the high-strung stress that settles in him when he's working sometimes. ]
I want you to learn, too. Not because I am asking you to cook for me or something.
[ But because Makoto wants to learn. He wants to know. And JJ wants to always know Makoto feels accomplished in that front. He knows hot great it feels to finally get good at something. He's gone through that here times before. He stirs the curry gently, tilting his head carefully so not to nudge Makoto away. ]
It's almost done. I'd never ask you to help today. This is all me.
[ Just the way he wanted it to be. Food was, he had learned since they had started living together, a great way to express how he cares about someone. He was usually taken care of at home - with limited time, strict dietary needs, and people managing his life nonstop, it was nice to do this for someone else. He never really got it, just expected it, but now he sees the appeal of giving someone else something they really like to eat. ]
Like --
[ He turns off the burner. ]
Give it a moment to not scorch your tongue and it's all set.
I know. But I'd like to cook for you some time. Maybe for your birthday so you don't go baking yourself a cake next time.
[A gentle tease followed by a quiet laugh. The curry smelled nice and he was eager to try it. He knew it would be good, JJ rarely messed up once he learned a recipe. But it was also always a little different every time. For all he knew, JJ never changed anything but it still tasted different somehow. And Makoto liked that about JJ's cooking.]
I'm not that desperate for food.
[He said with a laugh, finally pulling back (reluctantly) to help at least get the plates to set them out to serve the curry on.]
[ Although, getting something made by this man before him? It would be the best. He'd love it more than something he made himself - that much he's sure of. He moved to start gathering some serving spoons for the rice and curry, as well as utensils for them to use to eat. He starts to move things to the table so they can sit and eat, talk, and he can sort out when he's going to make his move exactly.
Soon.
He wants to do it soon. Now even. But he thinks he'll let Makoto eat least eat before diving into potentially hard questions. ]
Yeah, but it does smell delicious, so I wouldn't blame you.
[JJ just loved to cook so of course he wouldn't mind making himself a cake. But he hoped that wouldn't be the case at his next birthday, that Makoto could make something decent for him. He really wanted to.]
So modest.
[Another laugh as he sat down once they were finished. Not that JJ wasn't telling the truth, it did smell good. Like, really good. He learned very fast how to make green curry and make it well. So, Makoto was excited to eat some.
This was a very nice birthday already. He had gotten well wishes and a few gifts already earlier, but dinner with his boyfriend was probably going to be his favorite part of today.]
[ There was sarcasm that he didn't pick up, of course. Because that's just the nature of JJ being who he is sometimes. It's okay, he didn't necessarily need to get it. Once everything - including Makoto - was placed, he sat down across from him and they could start serving them. ]
Of course!
[ He doesn't seem too bothered by the idea. ]
I love cooking for you. And not just because you always appreciate it so much.
[ Although the praise and appreciation surely didn't hurt. ]
So have as much as you as you want. I won't stop you. After dinner I can give you my gift!
[Makoto laughed again as JJ missed the sarcasm. But that was okay because JJ was already doing so much for him today so he eased off the teasing again to smile.]
You're spoiling me. You really didn't need to give me a gift, just the dinner for two is enough!
[But that didn't mean he wasn't curious and it almost made him want to eat faster just to get to it. He couldn't do that though, not when JJ's cooking was always meant to be savored. He was always admittedly jealous that JJ could cook so well, but it also meant that much more when JJ tried his own cooking and either liked it or gently gave him pointers to improve.]
Just don't let me eat too much, I'll want to nap afterwards.
[Not that it stopped him from taking a big bite of the green curry and humming softly as it tasted just right. Not many liked green curry among his friends, so it was always a treat to have it. Especially when it was made so well!]
[ He blinks. JJ wanted to do so much more than this, but Makoto didn't want him to go overboard, so he didn't. He's sure that the ring itself is going to be more than enough of a surprise for the other. He started digging into the food. It was delicious, of course. JJ liked just about all food, but even better when shared with Makoto. ]
It's going to be just enough. And not too much. Curry tastes good with leftovers, and you still have a cake.
[Makoto laughed. Well, he thought it was spoiling, but he also just liked to give JJ a hard time. His boyfriend could be a bit much and they both knew it. But he never really minded. It was another day that ended with Y for Makoto.
He scrunched his nose at JJ due to the spoonful of food in his mouth to answer that smirk. Not that he doubted JJ wouldn't do what he said. Eating too much really was the worst sometimes.
No regrets though.]
You have any plans for tomorrow? I have it off. Maybe take a trip to Amegahara?
[ He swallows a bite of food as he considers the answer to Makoto's question. The convenient thing about having this conversation when eating is that he took the time to think about it before speaking. He sometimes had a habit of just saying whatever he wanted to at the time, and was glad he didn't. ]
Hm -
[ He shakes his head. ]
No plans. Let's go to Amegahara. We can make a nice trip of it.
[ If all goes well here, it'd be a nice way to celebrate, too. ]
[Not that Makoto is any the wiser about any extra plans today, he is all for the fact that he was having a nice dinner with JJ and cake would be soon. It was all his favorites and it was more than enough for him. Not that he was going to dislike what JJ was planning.]
You know, I haven't been there in awhile. It reminds me a lot of home, so I'd definitely like to see more of it. Let's go.
[His smile was bright then, genuinely happy for further plans now.]
We should bring something back for Sousuke and Rin, too.
[ You know what - a well made plan was what he had, but it just felt so right now. He supposed he could just follow impulse. He could do what felt right - right now. And it did feel right. He shuffled his hand into his pocket and pulled out the small ring box with an orca outline on top. Inside are two rings, one for him, one for Makoto, that he had obtained while here.
He wanted them to both have one, so they both could say they were engaged. He settles it onto his lap.
He's not nervous. There's no hint of nerves in his words when he speaks. Of course, JJ rarely gets nervous around Makoto. Why would this be different? ]
We can make a celebration of it maybe --
[ He shifts, placing the box on the table between them, and he pulls it open to reveal the fairly simple rings. ]
Because Makoto, I want to know if you'll marry me.
[It legit took Makoto a hot second to realize just what JJ was doing. The spoon was still in his mouth, cheeks puffed slightly with food. He blinked as he looked at the ring in the box, his mind struggling to comprehend for a moment.
He pulled the spoon from his mouth.]
...youβre proposing?
[It was slightly muffled because food but no less clear. He made it a point to quickly chew and swallow, washing the rest with his drink.
[ Oh - no. Wait! Did Makoto misunderstand. Oh, shit. Oops. He looks earnest. Determined. And maybe the timing was much worse than he thought it would be. It just seemed -- well, it's fine. He's asked. It's good now. He shifts, moving to kneel down beside Makoto's chair, box in hand with the rings. ]
At least by the time JJ was down on one knee with the box that Makoto had swallowed the food and taken a big gulp of his drink so he could answer clearer too. He smiled brightly, trying very hard not to let his emotions overwhelm him because holy shit JJ is proposing to him.]
Yes. Yes!
[Was this too soon? They had been dating less than a year but it... it felt right? He slid out of his chair to kneel down in front of JJ and swiftly wrapped his arms around his husband to be, holding tightly.]
[ JJ blushed happily and wrapped his arms around Makoto. He's happy, he's so happy because it felt so right. It's not like he's never proposed before but Makoto is special. Makoto is his. And Makoto's the one he wants and has wanted go forward for god knows how long. He leaned in to place a kiss on Makoto's lips, quick and easy, he stays close, though, when he speaks. ]
I got us matching rings. I'm glad it was worthwhile. I still wasn't sure. Just hoped so, but --
I'll tell everyone I know and don't. I'll shout it everywhere.
[ And not just because it's right to tell people he knows, and not because he wants to stake some sort of claim in the other. It's because he's happy. It's because Makoto said yes even when he's sure there's reasons to say no in a place like this. ]
Tell anyone and everyone you want, Makoto. And -- I would never. I want you to have something perfect. It's important to me for us to have something we can be proud to wear forever.
[ Ever since Akira has figured out how to reliably use animal magic and transform into a cat, wandering around all over the place has become one of his favorite past times. The whole new perspective is so different compared to what he's experienced as a human and he can't get enough of it.
Today, while taking a form of a tuxedo cat, he bumps into a black cat and tries to start a conversation when he notices a tall teen approach both felines. ]
Meow?
[ Nyakira gazes up at Makoto, his tail slowly swishing from left to right and back. ]
[Makoto had stopped to get a snack, but he couldnβt bring Cake inside. The owners were nice enough to at least let her near the door so he could keep an eye while he got said goodies.
But it seemed another cat at joined in! A real pretty male tuxedo. Makoto knelt down with a small smile on his face, mindful of the door.]
Did you make a friend? Hello.
[He held his hand out for the cat the sniff while Cake eyed the bag of treats. Clearly, the dogs spoiled her!]
[ Nyakira doesn't shy away from sniffing Makoto's hand and when he's done, he puts his paw on top of his knuckles. You've been blessed by a kitty, Makoto. ]
Meow!
[ While Nyakira might not be paying that much attention to the bag of treats, saying that he hasn't noticed it or is completely ignoring it wouldn't be true. He taps Makoto's hand a few times just like it was a bell for ordering food. ]
Food?
[ Not being an experienced animal mage yet, what was supposed to be a meowing sound turns into a quiet plea spoken with Akira's human voice. ]
[Did the cat just speak? He almost missed it, having been caught up by being blessed, after all. Still, he pulled out the treats and handed some to both Cake and Nyakira.]
[ If Makoto had any doubts, maybe this will reassure him that there's something different about this cat. Nyakira waits for Cake to get some treats first before digging in himself. ]
[A talking cat! How cool was that! Makoto is a bit of a gullible dork so an animal mage didnβt cross his mind. Heβs in the land of King Arthur! Talking cats would totally be normal, right?]
Do you normally beg at this shop? Youβre very handsome, Iβm sure people feed you all the time.
Just from time to time, I don't want to take too much food from real cats. I try to share with them, too. Some cats are too scared to approach me in my human form, so that's easier.
You're an animal mage? And here I thought I was helping an actual cat. [It's said wryly because honestly, it made sense that an animal mage could and would do this.] I certainly hope you don't do this regularly and you're able to feed yourself normally.
Aw, that would be fun! I think itβs too short notice to leash train Cake but sheβs used to riding around in something. I can look for a carrier for her?
Weβll see, she only does it when sheβs nervous because Biscuit protected her during an attack in Lunatia. The cafe was attacked and we were trapped. A friend came and rescued us though, escorting us to a safe zone.
Yeah, sheβs been trained to handle carriers and stuff when she first arrived at the cafe. A backpack version would definitely be helpful!
Great. I learned a bit back in Lunatia, but a lot of that was high tech. So I'm curious to see what we can do with something actually old. I'm learning a lot here too when I get those construction jobs.
[ JJ starts the moment Makoto sets his foot outside for his daily routine. He bought everything he needed already. He remembers Makoto doesn't want anything big, so he keeps it between the two of them. And it isn't a "big celebration" by any means, but JJ expresses how he cares by doing a lot of things - so it's hard for him to cut back.
There will be a chocolate cake. There's a few cake pops on the side that he made with the leftover batter and scraps. They were dipped in chocolate ganache and covered with sprinkles. In addition to that, there's a few neatly wrapped gifts sitting on the counter top.
As for dinner - he made a few easy favorites - a hot pot with some vegetables, meats, and rice - as well as a green curry to put over the rice and vegetables.
Decorations are simple. A few balloons in addition to the gifts. Plus, Makoto will notice that all of the animals have a change in collars for the day - all bright and colorful.
To JJ, it's not overboard. To others - well, he doesn't care what they think. ]
[Makoto knew that JJ would likely have something planned. It was his birthday, after all. He just hoped JJ wouldn't go too overboard like he knew the ice skater wanted to. Makoto was just a simple person who liked simple things, though! And truth be told, he didn't know too many people here like JJ did, so he didn't really want to do a party either.
But he as still pleasantly surprised at what JJ did put together when he got home. The house smelled delicious, with both dinner and dessert, and the animals were adorable in their new collars. Even Cake had one! He grinned brightly as he shut the door and knelt down to pet the dogs that ran toward him.]
[ JJ smiled as he moved to set down two plates on the table before he moved to great his fiance at the door. As soon as Makoto was upright again, JJ rose a little onto his toes, closing those couple of inches in height, and pressed a kiss to Makoto's lips. It was quick and chaste. He moved a hand to settle on his cheek before finally stepping back. ]
I hope your birthday has been good so far, love. Not too stressful, easy going.
[ He doesn't mention the food or anything like that quite yet. He's sure Makoto already knows it's there. The scents are filling the house enough that he's had a few occasional beggars -- the dogs -- hanging around his feet. ]
Yeah, nothing major today. They just needed an extra hand, so I didn't mind going in for a few hours today. Nothing strenuous either, so it was an easy day. And now I get to spend the rest of my birthday with my favorite people. I'm starving though.
[There was a hopeful look in his eyes. Time to eat? Please? The dogs aren't the only beggars right now.]
You worked up an appetite, so of course. I'll get you a bowl started.
[ He doesn't even wait for Makoto to answer, and is already scooping things into the bowl. He knows what Makoto likes, after all. And he doesn't know if the other wants to get changed before he settles in for food. It's the best way to make sure everything is ready to go. ]
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babygotbackstroke) wrote2016-08-21 08:51 am
text; un: kingjj
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so - i wanted to let you know that if you ever need anything
don't hesitate to message me :) during iris even too i mean
and i don't just mean for like sex or something ofc haha
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Thank you, I appreciate it. I'll try to remember that.
[He does really appreciate it though. And a few moments later, he added:]
You too.
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speaking of
we should hang out sometime
do u like coffee?
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As long as I can sweeten it. ^_^
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also apparently good strawberry shortcake
we'll allow it, makoto
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...no
i wouldn't have told *you* no
maybe someone else tho haha
do you like vanilla?? like in your coffee or whatever, because there's a kinda sweet latte that has vanilla in it that you might like
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I do like vanilla, yeah. Having it in a latte sounds even better than just in coffee. Let me know when and we can go!
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voice | un: sousuke
It's been a while since I've heard from you. Everything alright?
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'M fine. Sorry, I didn't mean to worry you though. I've just been at a friend's house because of... um...
[How do you even word what's been going on? That being said, Sousuke might hear some faint singing in the background due to said friend (JJ) singing while cooking in the kitchen.]
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Did I wake you? Sorry. But glad you're alright...? Is it the whole... moon thing for you now?
[ a beat because that is probably the best way of asking if makoto is being... busy. ]
They they one singing?
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Yeah. Cordis gives you pheromones and I guess they were... uh... strong?
[Awkward but also true. He did chuckle tiredly at the last bit.]
Yeah. If heβs not talking he finds another way to make noise. Kinda like Nagisa.
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Uh, thanks for letting me know. I'll keep that in mind if I come across any during their time.
[ there's a small noise he makes here. it could be a laugh ]
Bet that gets interesting at times.
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[It was embarrassing in a lot of respects but he had taken it one day at a time. It wasnβt too mind blowing after awhile, although it wasnβt like Lunatia as a whole couldnβt throw him for a loop. It did often enough.]
Just a bit, haha. How are you holding up?
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[ They'll get used to it eventually. It's not that it's bad, just that it's not like what they're used to ]
I've been doing alright? You, uh, missed me during Sanguis. [ a beat ] Apparently I'm a dog.
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[Makoto can't help the soft laughter, resting his arms on his knees.]
Are you? What breed? Somehow, it fits.
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[ but he lets out a small groan, but it's not bad ]
I think I was a German Shepherd? That's what the ears looked like. I couldn't get a good look at the tail.
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[Sorry JJ, he's just gonna keep dunking on you while you're within earshot.
There's a "Heeey!!" in the background from JJ. Not that he was going to do much else, preparing lunch as he was. Makoto laughed though.]
That sounds adorable, to be honest. You didn't try looking in a mirror?
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[ please continue to dunk on jj. but that "Hey" catches his attention ] Is he... there?
[
Sort of...? But I just couldn't get a good look in my mirror.
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[Eheheh.... awkward.]
Weβre dating.
[Surprise?]
Youβll have to show me next time.
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OK cool. Like I said, he's a cool guy.
[ REPLAYS CONVERSATIONS WITH JJ AND. THINGS MAKE SENSE NOW.
why am i dumb is this just a samezuka thing??? ]
Only fair, since I saw you during Cordis.
audio for peak nuisance
Guess what today is. [ He doesn't say -- yet ] I have a piece of chocolate cake for you, and you owe me one birthday kiss.
[ pause ]
I know, I know, but I don't make the rules.
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I suppose if I must. How old are you today? Six?
[Look, he had to. He chuckled again and then, made a soft, considering noise.]
Please tell me you didnβt make the cake yourself. You shouldnβt have to do that on your own birthday.
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[ Hums. ]
I mean, I didn't have to do it, but I did. I made it last night, actually. I was always traveling when my birthday came up between training and other things, so I was excited to celebrate and didn't even think about just buying one.
[ and -- it's not like he doesn't have enough chroma or something ]
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[He laughed again, pressing the phone between his shoulder and ear as he set down the dog bowl for Biscuit and went to grab Cake's bowl to get her food ready.
She leapt onto the counter, bell chiming as she waited.]
Well, them let me treat you to dinner or something since you already got yourself dessert. I didn't even know it was coming up, you should have told me! I would have gotten you something.
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[ As if Cake can actually hear him. But he's happy to acknowledge the other being there. He happily is moving about the kitchen, cleaning up the remainder from his cake baking the night before. He's blushing a little, though it's not evident. ]
Dinner is good, then. And...well, I don't want anything, really. Just to spend time with someone I like. I don't want anyone to worry about it.
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[He wished could think up a gift at the last minute, but there was no use fretting about it if JJ didn't want him to. So, he would just need to pick a good place for the birthday dinner to happen.]
What time would be good for you?
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[ Or - you know, anything else. ]
Tomorrow is Triple Moons, too, and waking up next to you wouldn't be a bad post-birthday treat.
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[Or anything else, yes. The last bit got Makoto blushing though, not that JJ could see it. He did stammer a bit, though as he placed the bowl of food down for Cake to start chowing down.]
A-Ah... yeah. I mean, no! It wouldn't be a bad treat.
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You're really cute, Makoto. Cake and dessert!
[ Makoto might be able to hear the :) emote in JJ's voice. ]
Can I make one request? That it's nothing too fancy, just easy going. Where company is more important...that sort of thing.
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[He caught that :) and what cake and dessert actually meant.]
Sure, I can do that. Anything in particular youβd like though? Any kind of food youβre craving?
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[ and a moment later -- ]
They have some pretty good specialties around the city. When I first got here, the seafood was the first thing I tried.
dated 11/17 ( action )
It's like - excited nervous, if he were to put words on it. He pats his pocket to make sure the main event is in place and glances around the entrance of the house and the kitchen, where he still has a few things finishing up for the other.
The cake was a single-tier cake, chocolate through and through. It was sitting neatly on the counter - Happy Birthday Makoto written by him. For dinner - he made green curry with rice and picked up some meat buns at a nearby bakery. It's not too much, he thinks, but he's never really sure what crosses a line.
He tried to do...not as much as he'd normally do.
Besides, he thinks doing his typical level of extra plus proposing might be...too much? He's trying, at least. He listened. He doesn't think the other has an idea that he's doing this - he hopes not, at least. He had gotten the rings from that shop over a month ago and tucked them away.
When Makoto gets to the kitchen, he'll find JJ stirring the curry, making sure it doesn't burn as it simmers. ]
It's almost ready.
[ A pleased hum. ]
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Besides, if he knew part of it was JJ being unsure if this was too much, he would have told him from the get-go that it wasn't. Dinner and a birthday cake was just the right amount for Makoto. While he didn't mind having a party or anything like that, he preferred that with his friends and most of them weren't here. So, he was happy with just this much.
So, to try and perhaps calm JJ just a little bit, Makoto padded over to the stove and slipped his arms around JJ's middle, resting his chin on a broad shoulder.]
Smells good. Thank you.
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He was always going to be better at that part than JJ was. And that was okay to him. It was one of the many things he loved about the other. He had rehearsed the proposal in his head a few times, and each time it was different. So, JJ settled on - saying what he feels at the time he did it.
He didn't want it to sound rehearsed. And when Makoto's arms settled around him, JJ relaxed into the other, put on an easy and pleased smile, and tilted his head towards him. ]
Of course! [ A small hum ] I'd do this every day if you asked! I'd do more, even. As much as you want!
[ It was part of how JJ showed he cared. Then he said: ]
Because I lo~ve you.
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He laughed quietly and pressed his lips to JJ's neck.]
I might have to take you up on that. But I'd also like to keep learning too.
[He likely would never be as good as JJ, but he liked being able to try and take over in the kitchen if only to give JJ a break.
He blushed and smiled against JJ's neck. His stomach fluttered at those words.]
Love you too. is it almost done? Do you want any help?
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I want you to learn, too. Not because I am asking you to cook for me or something.
[ But because Makoto wants to learn. He wants to know. And JJ wants to always know Makoto feels accomplished in that front. He knows hot great it feels to finally get good at something. He's gone through that here times before. He stirs the curry gently, tilting his head carefully so not to nudge Makoto away. ]
It's almost done. I'd never ask you to help today. This is all me.
[ Just the way he wanted it to be. Food was, he had learned since they had started living together, a great way to express how he cares about someone. He was usually taken care of at home - with limited time, strict dietary needs, and people managing his life nonstop, it was nice to do this for someone else. He never really got it, just expected it, but now he sees the appeal of giving someone else something they really like to eat. ]
Like --
[ He turns off the burner. ]
Give it a moment to not scorch your tongue and it's all set.
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[A gentle tease followed by a quiet laugh. The curry smelled nice and he was eager to try it. He knew it would be good, JJ rarely messed up once he learned a recipe. But it was also always a little different every time. For all he knew, JJ never changed anything but it still tasted different somehow. And Makoto liked that about JJ's cooking.]
I'm not that desperate for food.
[He said with a laugh, finally pulling back (reluctantly) to help at least get the plates to set them out to serve the curry on.]
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[ Although, getting something made by this man before him? It would be the best. He'd love it more than something he made himself - that much he's sure of. He moved to start gathering some serving spoons for the rice and curry, as well as utensils for them to use to eat. He starts to move things to the table so they can sit and eat, talk, and he can sort out when he's going to make his move exactly.
Soon.
He wants to do it soon. Now even. But he thinks he'll let Makoto eat least eat before diving into potentially hard questions. ]
Yeah, but it does smell delicious, so I wouldn't blame you.
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[JJ just loved to cook so of course he wouldn't mind making himself a cake. But he hoped that wouldn't be the case at his next birthday, that Makoto could make something decent for him. He really wanted to.]
So modest.
[Another laugh as he sat down once they were finished. Not that JJ wasn't telling the truth, it did smell good. Like, really good. He learned very fast how to make green curry and make it well. So, Makoto was excited to eat some.
This was a very nice birthday already. He had gotten well wishes and a few gifts already earlier, but dinner with his boyfriend was probably going to be his favorite part of today.]
Thank you, JJ. For doing this.
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[ There was sarcasm that he didn't pick up, of course. Because that's just the nature of JJ being who he is sometimes. It's okay, he didn't necessarily need to get it. Once everything - including Makoto - was placed, he sat down across from him and they could start serving them. ]
Of course!
[ He doesn't seem too bothered by the idea. ]
I love cooking for you. And not just because you always appreciate it so much.
[ Although the praise and appreciation surely didn't hurt. ]
So have as much as you as you want. I won't stop you. After dinner I can give you my gift!
[ It's the most important part. ]
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You're spoiling me. You really didn't need to give me a gift, just the dinner for two is enough!
[But that didn't mean he wasn't curious and it almost made him want to eat faster just to get to it. He couldn't do that though, not when JJ's cooking was always meant to be savored. He was always admittedly jealous that JJ could cook so well, but it also meant that much more when JJ tried his own cooking and either liked it or gently gave him pointers to improve.]
Just don't let me eat too much, I'll want to nap afterwards.
[Not that it stopped him from taking a big bite of the green curry and humming softly as it tasted just right. Not many liked green curry among his friends, so it was always a treat to have it. Especially when it was made so well!]
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[ He blinks. JJ wanted to do so much more than this, but Makoto didn't want him to go overboard, so he didn't. He's sure that the ring itself is going to be more than enough of a surprise for the other. He started digging into the food. It was delicious, of course. JJ liked just about all food, but even better when shared with Makoto. ]
It's going to be just enough. And not too much. Curry tastes good with leftovers, and you still have a cake.
[ A small smirk. ]
I'll be sure to cut you off, then.
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He scrunched his nose at JJ due to the spoonful of food in his mouth to answer that smirk. Not that he doubted JJ wouldn't do what he said. Eating too much really was the worst sometimes.
No regrets though.]
You have any plans for tomorrow? I have it off. Maybe take a trip to Amegahara?
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Hm -
[ He shakes his head. ]
No plans. Let's go to Amegahara. We can make a nice trip of it.
[ If all goes well here, it'd be a nice way to celebrate, too. ]
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You know, I haven't been there in awhile. It reminds me a lot of home, so I'd definitely like to see more of it. Let's go.
[His smile was bright then, genuinely happy for further plans now.]
We should bring something back for Sousuke and Rin, too.
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He wanted them to both have one, so they both could say they were engaged. He settles it onto his lap.
He's not nervous. There's no hint of nerves in his words when he speaks. Of course, JJ rarely gets nervous around Makoto. Why would this be different? ]
We can make a celebration of it maybe --
[ He shifts, placing the box on the table between them, and he pulls it open to reveal the fairly simple rings. ]
Because Makoto, I want to know if you'll marry me.
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[It legit took Makoto a hot second to realize just what JJ was doing. The spoon was still in his mouth, cheeks puffed slightly with food. He blinked as he looked at the ring in the box, his mind struggling to comprehend for a moment.
He pulled the spoon from his mouth.]
...youβre proposing?
[It was slightly muffled because food but no less clear. He made it a point to quickly chew and swallow, washing the rest with his drink.
Did he really hear right?]
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That's exactly what I'm doing.
[ Is this -- better? ]
Will you marry me?
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[Eh? Ehhh?!
Makoto had realized it originally, he just couldn't believe it and was still processing. But of course, in true JJ fashion, his poor boyfriend (fiancΓ©?) took his reaction the wrong way and decided to make it much clearer. Bless him.
At least by the time JJ was down on one knee with the box that Makoto had swallowed the food and taken a big gulp of his drink so he could answer clearer too. He smiled brightly, trying very hard not to let his emotions overwhelm him because holy shit JJ is proposing to him.]
Yes. Yes!
[Was this too soon? They had been dating less than a year but it... it felt right? He slid out of his chair to kneel down in front of JJ and swiftly wrapped his arms around his husband to be, holding tightly.]
Yes.
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I got us matching rings. I'm glad it was worthwhile. I still wasn't sure. Just hoped so, but --
[ Okay, another kiss. ]
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The rings are great, JJ. You couldβve pulled them out of a cracker jack box, to be honest. Just the conceptβ!
[He kissed again. It was just. Amazing. He was so happy.]
We have to tell Sousuke and Rin. And you need to tell your friends too!
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[ And not just because it's right to tell people he knows, and not because he wants to stake some sort of claim in the other. It's because he's happy. It's because Makoto said yes even when he's sure there's reasons to say no in a place like this. ]
Tell anyone and everyone you want, Makoto. And -- I would never. I want you to have something perfect. It's important to me for us to have something we can be proud to wear forever.
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JJ... [It was only with slight admonishment that he said this.] I don't need perfect. I have you.
[Nonetheless, he reached up to the table to grab the ring box, taking the ring out so he could put it on.]
But I'll definitely be proud to wear this too.
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You're a sap. But I'm glad it works for you. It's yours forever now.
(frozen comment) βAVALON INBOX THREADS BELOWβ
action;
Today, while taking a form of a tuxedo cat, he bumps into a black cat and tries to start a conversation when he notices a tall teen approach both felines. ]
Meow?
[ Nyakira gazes up at Makoto, his tail slowly swishing from left to right and back. ]
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But it seemed another cat at joined in! A real pretty male tuxedo. Makoto knelt down with a small smile on his face, mindful of the door.]
Did you make a friend? Hello.
[He held his hand out for the cat the sniff while Cake eyed the bag of treats. Clearly, the dogs spoiled her!]
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Meow!
[ While Nyakira might not be paying that much attention to the bag of treats, saying that he hasn't noticed it or is completely ignoring it wouldn't be true. He taps Makoto's hand a few times just like it was a bell for ordering food. ]
Food?
[ Not being an experienced animal mage yet, what was supposed to be a meowing sound turns into a quiet plea spoken with Akira's human voice. ]
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[Did the cat just speak? He almost missed it, having been caught up by being blessed, after all. Still, he pulled out the treats and handed some to both Cake and Nyakira.]
Hope you two like it.
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[ If Makoto had any doubts, maybe this will reassure him that there's something different about this cat. Nyakira waits for Cake to get some treats first before digging in himself. ]
It's delicious, meow.
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[A talking cat! How cool was that! Makoto is a bit of a gullible dork so an animal mage didnβt cross his mind. Heβs in the land of King Arthur! Talking cats would totally be normal, right?]
Do you normally beg at this shop? Youβre very handsome, Iβm sure people feed you all the time.
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[ The struggles of an animal mage in training. ]
Just from time to time, I don't want to take too much food from real cats. I try to share with them, too. Some cats are too scared to approach me in my human form, so that's easier.
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[...oh!]
You're an animal mage? And here I thought I was helping an actual cat. [It's said wryly because honestly, it made sense that an animal mage could and would do this.] I certainly hope you don't do this regularly and you're able to feed yourself normally.
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[ He understands Morgana even better now, honestly. ]
I'd change back, but I never know if my clothes are going to materialize as well, so...
[ Do you want to deal with a naked teenager, Makoto... ]
text; un: kingjj
guess what??
i think
we may have enough saved
to start looking for a house
if you wanna start i mean
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we just need to make sure
we find something with enough space
for the animals
i think they're starting to get sick of the hotel
so it couldn't be a better time really :)
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we could get the dogs' approval too
you know
make sure they like it too~
we can bring them then
we should leash train cake sometime bc how cute is that???
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not today but
sometime! once we have a yard and stuff
she could enjoy outside a little then :)
you know running with her dog siblings
but she'd need a carrier to come along i think anyway right??
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:) I think sheβd like a yard, although I donβt know if sheβll run around with the other dogs. Maybe ride on Biscuitβs back or something.
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we could post it on youtube
every deserves to see something like that
ur right tho the triplets would be a lil
overwhelming for a cat
theyre kinda high energy haha
idr does cake do ok in carriers? oh!
oh u could get a backpack one
she can be with us and see things as we walk
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Yeah, sheβs been trained to handle carriers and stuff when she first arrived at the cafe. A backpack version would definitely be helpful!
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but it'd be cute
if she does it sometime
yes! itd be easier too with the dogs in tow
ill find a couple places to look at
do u have any special requests??
like yard obvs
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Hm⦠would it be weird to want it to be a bit of a fixer upper?
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and no its not weird
i like the idea of adding our
own personal touches
its gonna be easy to find ones surrounded by
nature and stuff like that
the houses here are pretty unique
so it would be neat
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i cant wait to see your touches tbh β₯
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Well, it'll depend on the house. But I'll think of something and maybe teach you a thing or two in case something breaks and I'm not there. :D
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i will be a diligent student bc i want to help
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Anyway, any idea when you wanna go?
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action; 11/17
There will be a chocolate cake. There's a few cake pops on the side that he made with the leftover batter and scraps. They were dipped in chocolate ganache and covered with sprinkles. In addition to that, there's a few neatly wrapped gifts sitting on the counter top.
As for dinner - he made a few easy favorites - a hot pot with some vegetables, meats, and rice - as well as a green curry to put over the rice and vegetables.
Decorations are simple. A few balloons in addition to the gifts. Plus, Makoto will notice that all of the animals have a change in collars for the day - all bright and colorful.
To JJ, it's not overboard. To others - well, he doesn't care what they think. ]
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But he as still pleasantly surprised at what JJ did put together when he got home. The house smelled delicious, with both dinner and dessert, and the animals were adorable in their new collars. Even Cake had one! He grinned brightly as he shut the door and knelt down to pet the dogs that ran toward him.]
You all look so handsome.
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[ JJ smiled as he moved to set down two plates on the table before he moved to great his fiance at the door. As soon as Makoto was upright again, JJ rose a little onto his toes, closing those couple of inches in height, and pressed a kiss to Makoto's lips. It was quick and chaste. He moved a hand to settle on his cheek before finally stepping back. ]
I hope your birthday has been good so far, love. Not too stressful, easy going.
[ He doesn't mention the food or anything like that quite yet. He's sure Makoto already knows it's there. The scents are filling the house enough that he's had a few occasional beggars -- the dogs -- hanging around his feet. ]
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[He returned the kiss with a chuckle and a nod.]
Yeah, nothing major today. They just needed an extra hand, so I didn't mind going in for a few hours today. Nothing strenuous either, so it was an easy day. And now I get to spend the rest of my birthday with my favorite people. I'm starving though.
[There was a hopeful look in his eyes. Time to eat? Please? The dogs aren't the only beggars right now.]
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You worked up an appetite, so of course. I'll get you a bowl started.
[ He doesn't even wait for Makoto to answer, and is already scooping things into the bowl. He knows what Makoto likes, after all. And he doesn't know if the other wants to get changed before he settles in for food. It's the best way to make sure everything is ready to go. ]
I'm happy you're home.