So he says without meaning it as he heads over to Albert's apartment. Is he dressed a little nicer than usual? No! It's just the man's imagination. Moran did not get better clothes instead of maintaining and keeping up his old manor attire. Shut up. ]
[ Moran reaches out to grab onto Albert's arm to stop him from disappearing into the apartment. He clicks his tongue as he has to admit that he is honestly excited about the gift that he has gotten the man; it's something that will be felt in their connection.
But he turns his head to let out a huffing sigh. ]
If you like it so much, don't wander off. Come bask in my looks as we head out.
[ It's not like he wants him to see what he got him as soon as possible so that he can see Albert happy. Not at all it. ]
[Oh. Moran grabs Albert and he stops in his tracks, turning back to face him. That eagerness threads its way into their connection, and Albert looks at Moran apologetically.]
I simply thought I was underdressed. If it's fine like this, I'll bask in your devilish charms just as I am.
[ He can feel the tips of his ears turning red as he keeps tugging him along -- being just polite enough to let Albert be able to close the door before he lets go of his hand. ]
It's fine like it. [ Moran tugs lightly on the bottom of his dress shirt before he tucks his hands into his pockets to start walking. ] I just dressed up a little. Don't worry so much about it.
[Shut up and just be handsome, Moran. Albert likes the look and appreciates the extra effort being made for... whatever reason it's being made for. But fine. He locks up and briskly walks to catch up with Moran.]
I'll try not to worry. You're keen on doing this quickly, then.
[He smiles, genuine but guarded because there may be other people around.]
I'm getting excited, myself.
[Off they go! He won't badger Moran to talk while they travel.]
[ It is probably good that he doesn't keep holding Albert's hand as they head toward the manor. Moran even has moments when he gets too into his own head.
He wonders if, perhaps, what is a nice gift that he may be overstepping his boundaries a little. After all, despite separating himself from that life, he also is a noble. He grew up in that sort of life. Buying something like this for a beloved is natural, but doesn't it also step on the pride of someone else.
As they walk, he lets out a few sighs but turns his head away so Albert can't see the expression that he's making. There is a feeling building up that he may just say, "Let's forget it." But they've already reached their destination -- which is something moving from one district to another with someone who seems like they're having some existential crisis, but here they are.
Moran pauses to stop outside of the manor. He keeps his back turned. ]
Well, anyway, here it is. [ A beat. ] This here ... it's yours. [ He reaches into his pocket and produces the items to prove that it was all bought in Albert's name. ]
[Well, it's not like he wouldn't hold Moran's hand, propriety be damned and all. He's concerned that the poor man is having a crisis of some sort, but he's not about to ask in public.
It's a bit of a walk, but when they get there and they stop in front of a beautiful mansion, Albert looks around curiously. As intelligent as he is, he could never fathom Moran buying him something massive, so it's not until the papers come out that he registers whats going on.
His eyes slide from the papers to the facade of the manor, not as overwhelming as theirs back home but perfect for if the rest of the crew shows up, and tasteful on the outside. And it probably cost an absolute fortune.]
...Colonel.
[Pride is nothing when he has someone as devoted and true as Moran at his side. He's going to treasure this.]
[ It sounds more accusatory than what he means. He still hasn't quite turned to look to see what sort of expression that Albert is making -- even though that is why he rushed him along so that he could see it.
His eyes close as he frowns -- disappointed in himself more than anything else. He lets out a single sigh, defeated, before he finally shifts so that he could look at him. ]
[It says something that Albert's reaction is to stare back at Moran in disbelief for several seconds, like he's going to say this is a joke, or there's a catch. But deep down he knows that won't happen, because Moran is Moran, a good man, a sound ally, a friend.
And right there in front of everyone in the whole neighborhood, Albert reaches up to hook a hand at the back of Moran's head and pull him down into a lengthy, rather spirited kiss.
It's the best he can do to start repaying him for this kindness. A little manna to go with his gratitude.]
Stupidly, that word comes into his head as Albert pulls him down into a kiss. His eyes widen a little as he wasn't expecting it. The affection that he feels in it, however, settles whatever nerves and doubts that he is having.
His arms wrapping around the man to pull him in close. He tilts his head so that he can deepen the excited kiss that he is given. Mouth opening a little, he wants to taste a little more.
Moran hates that there is a feeling of gratitude in Albert's response; he sends those emotions whether he likes them or not. There is a warm sense of happiness that he is able to do something for the man, since it has always felt that Albert did all things by himself. ]
[Good. Let Albert still have a few surprises left in him. He can feel Moran settling calmly into the kiss, their connection warming Albert from the inside out like a good drink.
He lets himself be wrapped up in those arms, tipping his head to accept more, the tiniest flare of desire slipping in as he runs his tongue lightly over Moran's lips.
If Moran wasn't here, Albert would have been at a loss. Without him, he'd likely be an entirely paranoid mess. Instead, he has someone who will watch his back, who will always be there to ground him and keep him from being alone. No matter what.
He breaks the kiss by a small distance, breath steady and calm.]
[ His tone is affectionate and quiet. The words that he's saying, even in jest, are really only just for Albert to hear. It doesn't bother him all that much that they are out in public, but what he has to say is something that is only meant for him. Let his actions be narrated however anyone would like, but what he says is something he only wants given to Albert. ]
What did I tell you? I'd always be at your side.
[ Of course, he isn't so crass as to bring home people to the manor. He'll keep his apartment for those sort of situations. But in any other, he'll live and stay with Albert. ]
[For the house. For staying. For being loyal. For everything. Albert knows Moran doesn't want to hear it, but he'll only say it once. The way they are right now, so close, he doesn't care if the whole world sees. This is his man, his sworn, devoted friend, and he'll let it be known.]
[ He swallows the words that would dismiss the gratitude. Instead, he just offers a small nod as he looks toward the mansion. ]
Let's go.
[ Letting out a sigh, he realizes there is a lot more shopping that he is going to have to do to make sure their home looks as they like. ]
We can figure out where everything goes and the like. [ A beat passes before he reaches to take Albert's hand; he looks away again as he starts to head to the mansion. He wishes that he could have walked into their manor this way as well, holding onto one of their hands and passing the entryway as equals. But he doesn't mind his situation; he would rather be the dog of the manor and make their dreams come true. ]
[It's going to be quite the effort to get the house in order, but Albert welcomes the challenge.
There's a moment's pause as Moran moves away, then an almost smug smile as the man takes his hand. They will walk side-by-side here, the equals as men that they always were, and he's more than a little glad of it.
The inside is remarkable, if completely different from what he's accustomed to back home. The architecture is different, the fixtures, the use of space... He imagines it's all just as modern and nice as his apartment, if not more so.]
[ Moran corrects but it is with a small smile. Three for the brothers and the remaining would be for Fred and himself. His chin drops a little as he looks away -- he knows in holding Albert's hand that Albert feels the tentative happiness that he feels just standing in the manor.
I didn't seek this out for myself. I only sought it out because it'd be for you. It really is a good thing that thoughts don't get transferred, as well, or he would have to leave and not show his face for countless months.
Being seen as a romantic, as a soft-hearted person, he would die. ]
We'll make sure it's comfortable for them. I don't want to hear Fred complain that I didn't do enough. [ Even if Fred would never complain about such things. ]
[ Moran doesn't finish his comment. He only thought of what would make others happy and feel more at ease should they arrive. And, he feels like the promise of William and Louis having a room and place would help ease any worries and concerns that might be quietly eating away at Albert.
He can live easily knowing that his connection to the manor is unbreakable. It is much like how he held onto the lives of his platoon. Even if he couldn't see them, couldn't hear them, and no longer at their side; he knew they were with him. The manor is more of a comfort while the lives of his men were more like a silent burden that he carried -- but if he didn't carry it, who would?
But Albert is a little different than him. Moran thinks having a room to fix and prepare would do him good. Having a physical space to see makes it easier to feel the connection and bond that he has.
He lets go of Albert's hand to start to walk forward, tucking his own hands into his pockets. ]
I don't mind noticing that you're here. So, don't worry too much about it.
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It seems like you're excited about whatever it is.
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I'll be over soon it's a bit too big to bring to the apartments so be prepared for a bit of a walk.
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A walk? I needed to get out, anyway. Very well; I'll be waiting.
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[ He will turn this whole manor around!!
So he says without meaning it as he heads over to Albert's apartment. Is he dressed a little nicer than usual? No! It's just the man's imagination. Moran did not get better clothes instead of maintaining and keeping up his old manor attire. Shut up. ]
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[He's really loving this internet sarcasm portion of New Things here.
When he opens the door to see... a very handsomely dressed Moran, he can't help giving him two entire looks up and down.]
I am actually surprised that the gift isn't you, dressed like that.
[Albert is dressed down for the day, having decided to go out again to Ruby Underground, but he waves Moran inside so he can go change to match.]
I won't be a moment.
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But he turns his head to let out a huffing sigh. ]
If you like it so much, don't wander off. Come bask in my looks as we head out.
[ It's not like he wants him to see what he got him as soon as possible so that he can see Albert happy. Not at all it. ]
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I simply thought I was underdressed. If it's fine like this, I'll bask in your devilish charms just as I am.
[Better?]
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[ He can feel the tips of his ears turning red as he keeps tugging him along -- being just polite enough to let Albert be able to close the door before he lets go of his hand. ]
It's fine like it. [ Moran tugs lightly on the bottom of his dress shirt before he tucks his hands into his pockets to start walking. ] I just dressed up a little. Don't worry so much about it.
[ And he's off -- walking quickly!! ]
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[Shut up and just be handsome, Moran. Albert likes the look and appreciates the extra effort being made for... whatever reason it's being made for. But fine. He locks up and briskly walks to catch up with Moran.]
I'll try not to worry. You're keen on doing this quickly, then.
[He smiles, genuine but guarded because there may be other people around.]
I'm getting excited, myself.
[Off they go! He won't badger Moran to talk while they travel.]
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He wonders if, perhaps, what is a nice gift that he may be overstepping his boundaries a little. After all, despite separating himself from that life, he also is a noble. He grew up in that sort of life. Buying something like this for a beloved is natural, but doesn't it also step on the pride of someone else.
As they walk, he lets out a few sighs but turns his head away so Albert can't see the expression that he's making. There is a feeling building up that he may just say, "Let's forget it." But they've already reached their destination -- which is something moving from one district to another with someone who seems like they're having some existential crisis, but here they are.
Moran pauses to stop outside of the manor. He keeps his back turned. ]
Well, anyway, here it is. [ A beat. ] This here ... it's yours. [ He reaches into his pocket and produces the items to prove that it was all bought in Albert's name. ]
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It's a bit of a walk, but when they get there and they stop in front of a beautiful mansion, Albert looks around curiously. As intelligent as he is, he could never fathom Moran buying him something massive, so it's not until the papers come out that he registers whats going on.
His eyes slide from the papers to the facade of the manor, not as overwhelming as theirs back home but perfect for if the rest of the crew shows up, and tasteful on the outside. And it probably cost an absolute fortune.]
...Colonel.
[Pride is nothing when he has someone as devoted and true as Moran at his side. He's going to treasure this.]
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[ It sounds more accusatory than what he means. He still hasn't quite turned to look to see what sort of expression that Albert is making -- even though that is why he rushed him along so that he could see it.
His eyes close as he frowns -- disappointed in himself more than anything else. He lets out a single sigh, defeated, before he finally shifts so that he could look at him. ]
Yes?
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And right there in front of everyone in the whole neighborhood, Albert reaches up to hook a hand at the back of Moran's head and pull him down into a lengthy, rather spirited kiss.
It's the best he can do to start repaying him for this kindness. A little manna to go with his gratitude.]
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Stupidly, that word comes into his head as Albert pulls him down into a kiss. His eyes widen a little as he wasn't expecting it. The affection that he feels in it, however, settles whatever nerves and doubts that he is having.
His arms wrapping around the man to pull him in close. He tilts his head so that he can deepen the excited kiss that he is given. Mouth opening a little, he wants to taste a little more.
Moran hates that there is a feeling of gratitude in Albert's response; he sends those emotions whether he likes them or not. There is a warm sense of happiness that he is able to do something for the man, since it has always felt that Albert did all things by himself. ]
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He lets himself be wrapped up in those arms, tipping his head to accept more, the tiniest flare of desire slipping in as he runs his tongue lightly over Moran's lips.
If Moran wasn't here, Albert would have been at a loss. Without him, he'd likely be an entirely paranoid mess. Instead, he has someone who will watch his back, who will always be there to ground him and keep him from being alone. No matter what.
He breaks the kiss by a small distance, breath steady and calm.]
...You'll live here with me, won't you?
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[ His tone is affectionate and quiet. The words that he's saying, even in jest, are really only just for Albert to hear. It doesn't bother him all that much that they are out in public, but what he has to say is something that is only meant for him. Let his actions be narrated however anyone would like, but what he says is something he only wants given to Albert. ]
What did I tell you? I'd always be at your side.
[ Of course, he isn't so crass as to bring home people to the manor. He'll keep his apartment for those sort of situations. But in any other, he'll live and stay with Albert. ]
You won't be alone while I am here.
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[For the house. For staying. For being loyal. For everything. Albert knows Moran doesn't want to hear it, but he'll only say it once. The way they are right now, so close, he doesn't care if the whole world sees. This is his man, his sworn, devoted friend, and he'll let it be known.]
Shall we look inside? I doubt it's furnished.
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Let's go.
[ Letting out a sigh, he realizes there is a lot more shopping that he is going to have to do to make sure their home looks as they like. ]
We can figure out where everything goes and the like. [ A beat passes before he reaches to take Albert's hand; he looks away again as he starts to head to the mansion. He wishes that he could have walked into their manor this way as well, holding onto one of their hands and passing the entryway as equals. But he doesn't mind his situation; he would rather be the dog of the manor and make their dreams come true. ]
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There's a moment's pause as Moran moves away, then an almost smug smile as the man takes his hand. They will walk side-by-side here, the equals as men that they always were, and he's more than a little glad of it.
The inside is remarkable, if completely different from what he's accustomed to back home. The architecture is different, the fixtures, the use of space... He imagines it's all just as modern and nice as his apartment, if not more so.]
Four bedrooms?
[He's not sure how the space is used...]
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[ Moran corrects but it is with a small smile. Three for the brothers and the remaining would be for Fred and himself. His chin drops a little as he looks away -- he knows in holding Albert's hand that Albert feels the tentative happiness that he feels just standing in the manor.
I didn't seek this out for myself. I only sought it out because it'd be for you. It really is a good thing that thoughts don't get transferred, as well, or he would have to leave and not show his face for countless months.
Being seen as a romantic, as a soft-hearted person, he would die. ]
We'll make sure it's comfortable for them. I don't want to hear Fred complain that I didn't do enough. [ Even if Fred would never complain about such things. ]
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[The gentleness of the gesture doesn't escape Albert, but for once he won't call Moran out. He'll accept this gift generously.]
We'll see to it there's a greenhouse in the back, with roses, lilies... daffodils, irises...
[He's getting carried away, smiling faintly.]
Until then, it'll just be the two of us. You'll hardly notice I'm here.
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[ Moran doesn't finish his comment. He only thought of what would make others happy and feel more at ease should they arrive. And, he feels like the promise of William and Louis having a room and place would help ease any worries and concerns that might be quietly eating away at Albert.
He can live easily knowing that his connection to the manor is unbreakable. It is much like how he held onto the lives of his platoon. Even if he couldn't see them, couldn't hear them, and no longer at their side; he knew they were with him. The manor is more of a comfort while the lives of his men were more like a silent burden that he carried -- but if he didn't carry it, who would?
But Albert is a little different than him. Moran thinks having a room to fix and prepare would do him good. Having a physical space to see makes it easier to feel the connection and bond that he has.
He lets go of Albert's hand to start to walk forward, tucking his own hands into his pockets. ]
I don't mind noticing that you're here. So, don't worry too much about it.