[He smiles, trying to resist the urge to stand close to Ignis, to wrap him up in his arms and hold him. It's a very new thing for Albert, wanting to embrace anyone fondly other than his brothers, but with Ignis the sync is blissful, and he'll take as much of it as he can get. Still, for now, he'll just hold his hand and look him over with kind eyes.]
Milk and sugar. I'll give that a try, too.
[He notes Ignis looking around, and takes a look as well.]
Ah, I was going to send you a note about that later. Yes, I'm moving. I think I mentioned before that one of our household servants is here? He... well, he's been here longer than I, and he saw fit to purchase a home for my use, and that of my brothers, should they arrive.
[A little wistfully:] It will be terribly empty for now, which is why I don't want to move until it's furnished and prepared.
[ ignis picks up on that impulse, those stirrings through their bond -- is it him, or do the feelings he's picking up on their connection more vivid, more apparent than before? ignis raises their joined hands so that he can press a soft, lingering kiss to his knuckles, courtly but clearly affectionate.
of course, ignis, who is clearly also a bad influence on albert, simply pulls albert into his arms, an arm sliding around his waist to keep him close, their hands still joined on the other, almost like they're easing into a dance only they can hear the music to. ]
I'll miss this lovely place. The times I had with you in here. [ he muses almost playfully, but he's clearly approving. albert needs to be with the people he loves and not alone. ]
[The kiss to Albert's hand makes him give Ignis a wry half-smile, endlessly charmed, but pulling him into his arms makes Albert tip his head back for a joyous little laugh. Maybe they should dance. His hand holding the rose balances against Ignis' back as he looks into those gentle green eyes, enchanted.
Albert straightens a bit and sways Ignis in the open space between the dining table and the couch.]
I never made it home.
[His smile won't fade, won't so much as wilt, even at the cheekiness.]
Promise me you'll come make wonderful memories with me in my new home. The bathroom in the largest bedroom is magnificent, and when you see the bed, you'll get endless ideas.
[A little cheek leveled back at him as he turns them slowly through the room.]
ignis' sentiment practically blossoms in their shared bond as meets his gaze, just as captivated. his hand splaying over the small of his back as they slip flawlessly into a slow dance, he can't help but chuckle, delighted by his joy and excited by that endearing little laugh.
albert laughs so rarely, and ignis loves each and every time he draws it out of him. he's just as cheeky and appreciative as he lets albert lead, slowing only to press his forehead to his with a tender, soft smile. ]
So you're getting the biggest bathroom, I see. And of course, I promise. [ he noses playfully against his cheek. ] Tell me all about that bed of yours, and how much you want me in it.
[He feels that look more than sees it, and the warm familiarity they've begun to radiate every time they speak or get close is becoming almost addictive for Albert. The press of his forehead makes Albert sigh gently, captivated and somehow wishing this moment could last far longer than it surely will. There's so much to be done today.]
The bathtub has room for two. [Tipping his head indulgently at the press of Ignis' nose, he lets put a content little hum.] The bed has tall posts and removable curtains. I've had some of the furniture moved in already. Is it pitiful that I'm so excited about simply having more space? Even empty, it will feel more like home. Oh, and the kitchen... [He closes his eyes and continues the slow, meandering dance.] Marble countertops, modern appliances, and space enough to cook for an army.
[ being with albert is incredible -- he has never been more at ease, unburdened and happy, the strength of their bond and their growing feelings for each other has never been more clear. ignis wishes, too, that these moments would last forever, that the world will disappear while they dance slowly, intimately, so wrapped up in each other that goodbyes are the sweetest sorrows. ]
We should probably be in the tub before we decide to touch each other, next time. [ a gentle tease, because look what happened when ignis tried to run albert a warm bath. he smiles, growing just a touch excited as he lists down the things in his new home. removable curtains and tall posts? marble countertops and appliances? amazing.
while his thoughts are firmly in the lewd and obscene territory when it comes to removable curtains and tall posts, he's effortlessly led to the potential joy of making food in that kitchen, and he squeezes his waist gently. ]
It's never pitiful, Albert. Although I suppose it would be nice to make you breakfast in your new home.
[And Albert has never felt more real, more alive, more present. Ignis makes him feel, makes him laugh and smile and think and breathe easier. He never asked for this and never expected it of any world, but now that he has it he's so reluctant to let it go.]
We'll be sure to enjoy the bath properly at the new house.
[A little laugh.]
My god, waking up to breakfast with you is the best thing. [It's only been a few sparing times, but already Albert appreciates it the way he'd appreciate waking up to hot tea every morning when he was around Louis.] Do you think... [He hesitates to ask, but he's so content right now that it seems the best time.] ...is it possible we could spend more nights together? I won't ask for all of them, of course. Just a few here and there.
[It's a lot, he wagers, to ask of anyone here, when the name of what they're supposed to do is create deep, lasting, and preferably numerous bonds. But if he's asking for one or two nights on odd sorts of days, he might not be being a burden.]
I'd never presume to take all your time, but I am becoming quite fond of you. Let me be a little selfish and I'll end up taking everything.
The worst part of my time with you is saying goodbye.
[ ignis says after a moment, as he listens to albert's request, his heart pounding at the way he asks -- what they have is becoming stronger, more solid, and with that comes the desire for more, to spend a definitive amount of time together.
the idea of being together for a couple more days is one that surprises him, but what's even more surprising is how much he wants it. he looks back at him, pulling back just a little to look him in the eyes, to ascertain for himself that albert isn't joking. ]
Yes. Take some of my nights, Albert, and let me claim yours.
[ he says quietly, almost fiercely, his eyes dark with sentiment, with what feels so much like love. he's gently nudging him against the nearest wall now, delicately pinning him to it. albert has never been a burden -- and this... this is incredible. ]
I'm afraid I've become quite fond of you as well, Albert. You've been in my thoughts more often, it's becoming difficult to stay away from you.
[That look. That intensity isn't unfamiliar to Albert in a person's eyes, but seeing it from Ignis is a delight that makes his heart leap and his breath run shallow. They share that look for a moment, the vulnerability, the sincerity that Albert would never make into a jest, and he lets out the smallest shudder of a breath to try to compensate for the way his chest is tightening.
The answer comes, and it's sweeter than anything he's ever heard. Before he knows it, he's against the wall, unable and unwilling to look away. Why does this make his chest ache? Why does this feel like he's doing something he doesn't deserve to experience? And why does he want to chase it down and hold it close with everything he has?]
Then... let me ask you not to stay away. Any time you call me, if I can come, I will. [Does he dare?] When we're apart, I long for your eyes on me, your hand in mine.
[Albert falls silent for a moment, letting his thoughts distill down into a single truth. He speaks it simply, as plainly as he can, trying his best to forget formality.]
I'm... I've never fallen for anyone before. Not like this.
albert's words does things to him, brings forth fantasies and warmth and an overwhelming depth of feeling as he studies him, raising their joined hands to press it up against the wall beside his head. in this light, he sees albert even more clearly, and searching through their bond only shows him just how much he means what he says.
he can feel it, too, the trepidation behind his words, the strangest feeling that albert doesn't believe he deserves this, but the instinct to want it overwhelming that. ignis decides to help it along, to quash that lingering doubt once and for all. ]
Then I shall pursue you, my beautiful, lovely, complicated man. [ he says, his chest light but full of feeling, exhilaration and excitement and surprise and joy at such a confession. he says little to that, only leaning forward to kiss his mouth, to seal his own over his as his own thoughts echo. can he have this? can he fall in love with albert, and have his own happiness too? a part of him feels that same guilt, but his passion, his desire for him wins out.
let him -- let them both have this, here and now. and whatever may come, well... ]
[Of course Albert doesn't think he deserves this. This is the most incredible man he's ever met, giving him undivided attention. This is him wanting desperately for the first time since he was young, and purely for the first time. His mind races as he feels the bond between them seem to strengthen in an instant, as Ignis searches the shared feelings and commits to them just like that.
It was a snap decision to be vulnerable, a risk, uncalculated and uncomplicated.
To think all he was supposed to get out of this little meeting was a simple invitation to a date. Now it feels like more, like something resembling courtship, because there's more than just flirtation and excitement in play. There's the true, deep feeling that he'll come to trust this man as much as anyone, that he'll fall into his arms and his bed easier and more often.
That they'll be beautiful, equal, and perhaps even joyously happy. That's the way Ignis makes him feel when he kisses him now, like everything that happened to him until he arrived here was a fever dream of desperation and suffering. William and Louis and even Moran are still close to his heart, but there's room for more, now that he's here. There's room for him to learn, and to forgive, before the worst happens and he's irredeemable.
If this vulnerability and openness comes back to destroy him later, he will at least be able to say he lived.]
[ they cannot have this forever. sooner or later, they'll return to their worlds -- and ignis only hopes he brings the memories of him back into eos, into the oncoming darkness. pressed up against the wall, albert is impossibly, stunningly beautiful, and he reaches out to tuck a lock of his hair behind his ear when he pulls away to breathe.
it was a risk that albert took and it paid off for albert and ignis both. ignis, who is reckoning with his own future, the fact that he will pay for the use of the ring with his eyesight, and the years of darkness that will come for them before noctis is sacrificed and his own purpose, lost.
he swallows hard as he looks at him, really looks, as if this is the last time he will ever see albert like this again, and he wants more than anything to sear it into his own memory. he can't help the morose wistfulness even as he feels overwhelming affection and fascination, the tentative overtures of love and the strong desire to want to be with him. it is a courtship, and as he touches his cheek again, pressing his forehead to his, he can feel albert's own determination, the hope and anticipation that comes with blossoming love.
he knows it because he shares it with him, the desire to take these precious moments for themselves before the inevitable happens, and he cups his cheek to press a kiss to the side of his lips again, soft and gentle. another kiss, holding him like he's something precious. ]
I really should go. [ he says reluctantly, nosing his jaw before pressing another kiss there. he ought to go, but all he feels is longing. ] You must be busy, and I'm distracting you.
[Albert knows this is temporary. Everything in life is mutable, except death, which Albert is all too well acquainted with. That will come for him sooner rather than later, he's sure. Maybe he even wanted it to before he came here, in all honesty. No matter how light his heart is about this, he will always be what he was, and always have done what he did.
If he could do things again, would he have chosen the same path? Would he have chosen to become a devil if he knew how much it would destroy him along the way? That the numbness he learned to use as a barrier would permeate everything and make him a liar, a cheat, a fake?
What will this brilliant, stunning, giving, glorious man ever gain from being with him? He'll think about this later, when he's alone, when Ignis is gone and thinking the most gentle thoughts, when Albert is left with only his shadows and the consequences of his actions. It will make this moment bittersweet, and his decision to confess his feelings will replay over and over in his head, haunting him.
He's going to love Ignis. He's going to fall completely, and utterly, and then the bottom will fall out of it all and he will be alone. That's what he deserves. He'll never forgive himself if he hurts Ignis in the process. Until then, he'll grasp at little moments like this and hold them unbearably tightly. If he's good to Ignis, if he's kind and generous and sincere, maybe the truth won't hurt so much when it eventually comes out. Maybe he'll even forgive Albert, or at least accept that he's doing his best to atone.
For now, Albert's heart is light as he looks silently at Ignis, being studied, being seen. This is something he absolutely doesn't deserve, this affection and kindness, but the way it makes his heart race and his body feel light is addictive, and welcome.
Less welcome is that flash of sadness, of trepidation from Ignis. How he wants to pry, to ask for secrets he wouldn't himself give. How he wants to dig so deeply into Ignis' heart that he forgets how dreadful his own is. So moments like this can take him by surprise, overwhelm him, and give him hope. Every gentle touch is memorable, and he maps out the way Ignis moves so carefully in his mind, dedicates the way his lips feel to a memory that he'll keep close.
This affection... it will undo Albert. But how, and how quickly, he still doesn't know. His voice is soft, hardly more than a breathy rush of syllables, so taken is he.]
You are the most welcome distraction I've ever had, dear Ignis.
[He wants him to stay. This is too picturesque of a moment to let go of easily. He wants to hold Ignis in his arms and be held, to kiss him and breathe the same air. He wants to cling so tightly, just for a moment, that he forgets that he is beyond redemption and not worthy of this at all.
Still, this dear man is a realist in certain key ways, and Albert is, too. Surely he's occupied for most of the day.]
But... if you must go, I understand. You only stopped by to invite me for later. You're probably terribly busy yourself, and we'll see each other in a few hours.
[ how odd now, that the notion of a few hours apart seems ultimately unpleasant, that he will be counting down the minutes until he sees him again. but the adage proves true: that absence makes the heart fonder, and in albert's absence, ignis will contemplate the weight of what has been allowed to flourish between them. albert, who is impossibly complicated and yet absurdly compelling in his own right, is a man who is opening up to him in degrees. there is a kindness under that slick charm, a hidden pain that ignis is just barely brushing the surface of, and he supposes that perhaps it's true that like calls to like.
he looks back at him, really looks, memorising every inch of him -- and yet, it's still not enough -- the longing is overwhelming, powerfully pulsing in the bond that they share, like a siren's song calling out to him. albert doesn't want him to go, he thinks. so he kisses him again, breathes the same air as him before he slowly pulls away, releasing him from his hold.
they both have things to do and places to go, and despite feeling like a reckless teenager, ignis knows that he must leave for the day. he runs his fingers through albert's soft hair again, cupping his face briefly before he definitively steps away. his heart is still racing, even as he picks up on albert's thoughts, skimming the surface of it. despite not being able to grasp them, he can sense that lightness, that wonder.
albert's choice chases the shadows from his own thoughts away. ignis will face them on his own time, come to terms with the inevitable future that descends upon him -- that one day, albert's face will truly only be a memory. ]
So we will.
[ he says finally, with a soft smile. saying goodbye is such sweet sorrow, but they will meet again tonight. ]
I'll come for you in a few hours, Albert. Dress casually, we are visiting some lively places tonight.
[Albert's heart is leaping and he can hardly see the world beyond Ignis right now. The whole scene, the whole experience is so devastatingly romantic that Albert's sure for a moment that he's being wooed. And he loves it. He'll follow this lead, letting Ignis dance him through this place joyously until he finds himself in a better frame of mind and a better occupation than before.
One last, slow kiss, the very act stealing Albert's breath, and one last meeting of eyes... Albert knows this moment can't last forever, that he has packing and furnishing to do, and Ignis surely has many engagements as well. But he allows himself for one last, precious moment to be captivated entirely.]
[ albert's right, ignis is wooing the hell out of him.
it truly is agony to tear himself away -- with ignis realising that spending more time with albert only makes him crave him more, instead of simply satisfying himself with his company. he can't have enough of albert, his wit, his kindness, that warmth and gentleness and yet that sharp edge, too, the strength of his convictions and their shared experiences. their connection is stronger than anything that ignis has ever experienced, and when they part ways, he moves quickly through all his tasks until he's finally, finally done.
he reaches albert's home five minutes early, having washed up with a new change of clothes, this time more casual with a simple black button-up shirt and suspenders, sleeves folded to his elbows neatly. he knocks, and this time he comes with a large bouquet of two dozen red, red roses. ]
[He's utterly enchanted, and the rest of the day goes by in something of a blur, Albert working himself to near exhaustion to keep from the anticipation eating away at him.
When Ignis knocks, he'll be greeted moments later by Albert in a soft, casual, deep purple shirt, the collar unfastened to show his amethyst gemstone at his throat, his own sleeves rolled up much in the fashion of Ignis' own.
He's ready with a greeting, but it dies on his lips at the sight of the flowers.]
[ ignis blinks when he answers the door, surprised. albert has always been a handsome, charming man with a smile that haunts his every fantasy, but tonight, he's gorgeous.
the dark purple suits him, and it takes ignis only a moment to realise that albert, sweet albert is starting to dress like him. he smiles, warm and tender and delighted as he offers him the large bouquet. ]
I am only sorry that they're not as stunning as you.
[ he tells him with a soft smile, musing. ]
Perhaps I should wear green the next time I see you.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png){kind=small}
no subject
Milk and sugar. I'll give that a try, too.
[He notes Ignis looking around, and takes a look as well.]
Ah, I was going to send you a note about that later. Yes, I'm moving. I think I mentioned before that one of our household servants is here? He... well, he's been here longer than I, and he saw fit to purchase a home for my use, and that of my brothers, should they arrive.
[A little wistfully:] It will be terribly empty for now, which is why I don't want to move until it's furnished and prepared.
no subject
of course, ignis, who is clearly also a bad influence on albert, simply pulls albert into his arms, an arm sliding around his waist to keep him close, their hands still joined on the other, almost like they're easing into a dance only they can hear the music to. ]
I'll miss this lovely place. The times I had with you in here. [ he muses almost playfully, but he's clearly approving. albert needs to be with the people he loves and not alone. ]
no subject
Albert straightens a bit and sways Ignis in the open space between the dining table and the couch.]
I never made it home.
[His smile won't fade, won't so much as wilt, even at the cheekiness.]
Promise me you'll come make wonderful memories with me in my new home. The bathroom in the largest bedroom is magnificent, and when you see the bed, you'll get endless ideas.
[A little cheek leveled back at him as he turns them slowly through the room.]
no subject
ignis' sentiment practically blossoms in their shared bond as meets his gaze, just as captivated. his hand splaying over the small of his back as they slip flawlessly into a slow dance, he can't help but chuckle, delighted by his joy and excited by that endearing little laugh.
albert laughs so rarely, and ignis loves each and every time he draws it out of him. he's just as cheeky and appreciative as he lets albert lead, slowing only to press his forehead to his with a tender, soft smile. ]
So you're getting the biggest bathroom, I see. And of course, I promise. [ he noses playfully against his cheek. ] Tell me all about that bed of yours, and how much you want me in it.
no subject
The bathtub has room for two. [Tipping his head indulgently at the press of Ignis' nose, he lets put a content little hum.] The bed has tall posts and removable curtains. I've had some of the furniture moved in already. Is it pitiful that I'm so excited about simply having more space? Even empty, it will feel more like home. Oh, and the kitchen... [He closes his eyes and continues the slow, meandering dance.] Marble countertops, modern appliances, and space enough to cook for an army.
no subject
We should probably be in the tub before we decide to touch each other, next time. [ a gentle tease, because look what happened when ignis tried to run albert a warm bath. he smiles, growing just a touch excited as he lists down the things in his new home. removable curtains and tall posts? marble countertops and appliances? amazing.
while his thoughts are firmly in the lewd and obscene territory when it comes to removable curtains and tall posts, he's effortlessly led to the potential joy of making food in that kitchen, and he squeezes his waist gently. ]
It's never pitiful, Albert. Although I suppose it would be nice to make you breakfast in your new home.
no subject
We'll be sure to enjoy the bath properly at the new house.
[A little laugh.]
My god, waking up to breakfast with you is the best thing. [It's only been a few sparing times, but already Albert appreciates it the way he'd appreciate waking up to hot tea every morning when he was around Louis.] Do you think... [He hesitates to ask, but he's so content right now that it seems the best time.] ...is it possible we could spend more nights together? I won't ask for all of them, of course. Just a few here and there.
[It's a lot, he wagers, to ask of anyone here, when the name of what they're supposed to do is create deep, lasting, and preferably numerous bonds. But if he's asking for one or two nights on odd sorts of days, he might not be being a burden.]
I'd never presume to take all your time, but I am becoming quite fond of you. Let me be a little selfish and I'll end up taking everything.
no subject
[ ignis says after a moment, as he listens to albert's request, his heart pounding at the way he asks -- what they have is becoming stronger, more solid, and with that comes the desire for more, to spend a definitive amount of time together.
the idea of being together for a couple more days is one that surprises him, but what's even more surprising is how much he wants it. he looks back at him, pulling back just a little to look him in the eyes, to ascertain for himself that albert isn't joking. ]
Yes. Take some of my nights, Albert, and let me claim yours.
[ he says quietly, almost fiercely, his eyes dark with sentiment, with what feels so much like love. he's gently nudging him against the nearest wall now, delicately pinning him to it. albert has never been a burden -- and this... this is incredible. ]
I'm afraid I've become quite fond of you as well, Albert. You've been in my thoughts more often, it's becoming difficult to stay away from you.
no subject
The answer comes, and it's sweeter than anything he's ever heard. Before he knows it, he's against the wall, unable and unwilling to look away. Why does this make his chest ache? Why does this feel like he's doing something he doesn't deserve to experience? And why does he want to chase it down and hold it close with everything he has?]
Then... let me ask you not to stay away. Any time you call me, if I can come, I will. [Does he dare?] When we're apart, I long for your eyes on me, your hand in mine.
[Albert falls silent for a moment, letting his thoughts distill down into a single truth. He speaks it simply, as plainly as he can, trying his best to forget formality.]
I'm... I've never fallen for anyone before. Not like this.
no subject
albert's words does things to him, brings forth fantasies and warmth and an overwhelming depth of feeling as he studies him, raising their joined hands to press it up against the wall beside his head. in this light, he sees albert even more clearly, and searching through their bond only shows him just how much he means what he says.
he can feel it, too, the trepidation behind his words, the strangest feeling that albert doesn't believe he deserves this, but the instinct to want it overwhelming that. ignis decides to help it along, to quash that lingering doubt once and for all. ]
Then I shall pursue you, my beautiful, lovely, complicated man. [ he says, his chest light but full of feeling, exhilaration and excitement and surprise and joy at such a confession. he says little to that, only leaning forward to kiss his mouth, to seal his own over his as his own thoughts echo. can he have this? can he fall in love with albert, and have his own happiness too? a part of him feels that same guilt, but his passion, his desire for him wins out.
let him -- let them both have this, here and now. and whatever may come, well... ]
no subject
It was a snap decision to be vulnerable, a risk, uncalculated and uncomplicated.
To think all he was supposed to get out of this little meeting was a simple invitation to a date. Now it feels like more, like something resembling courtship, because there's more than just flirtation and excitement in play. There's the true, deep feeling that he'll come to trust this man as much as anyone, that he'll fall into his arms and his bed easier and more often.
That they'll be beautiful, equal, and perhaps even joyously happy. That's the way Ignis makes him feel when he kisses him now, like everything that happened to him until he arrived here was a fever dream of desperation and suffering. William and Louis and even Moran are still close to his heart, but there's room for more, now that he's here. There's room for him to learn, and to forgive, before the worst happens and he's irredeemable.
If this vulnerability and openness comes back to destroy him later, he will at least be able to say he lived.]
no subject
it was a risk that albert took and it paid off for albert and ignis both. ignis, who is reckoning with his own future, the fact that he will pay for the use of the ring with his eyesight, and the years of darkness that will come for them before noctis is sacrificed and his own purpose, lost.
he swallows hard as he looks at him, really looks, as if this is the last time he will ever see albert like this again, and he wants more than anything to sear it into his own memory. he can't help the morose wistfulness even as he feels overwhelming affection and fascination, the tentative overtures of love and the strong desire to want to be with him. it is a courtship, and as he touches his cheek again, pressing his forehead to his, he can feel albert's own determination, the hope and anticipation that comes with blossoming love.
he knows it because he shares it with him, the desire to take these precious moments for themselves before the inevitable happens, and he cups his cheek to press a kiss to the side of his lips again, soft and gentle. another kiss, holding him like he's something precious. ]
I really should go. [ he says reluctantly, nosing his jaw before pressing another kiss there. he ought to go, but all he feels is longing. ] You must be busy, and I'm distracting you.
no subject
If he could do things again, would he have chosen the same path? Would he have chosen to become a devil if he knew how much it would destroy him along the way? That the numbness he learned to use as a barrier would permeate everything and make him a liar, a cheat, a fake?
What will this brilliant, stunning, giving, glorious man ever gain from being with him? He'll think about this later, when he's alone, when Ignis is gone and thinking the most gentle thoughts, when Albert is left with only his shadows and the consequences of his actions. It will make this moment bittersweet, and his decision to confess his feelings will replay over and over in his head, haunting him.
He's going to love Ignis. He's going to fall completely, and utterly, and then the bottom will fall out of it all and he will be alone. That's what he deserves. He'll never forgive himself if he hurts Ignis in the process. Until then, he'll grasp at little moments like this and hold them unbearably tightly. If he's good to Ignis, if he's kind and generous and sincere, maybe the truth won't hurt so much when it eventually comes out. Maybe he'll even forgive Albert, or at least accept that he's doing his best to atone.
For now, Albert's heart is light as he looks silently at Ignis, being studied, being seen. This is something he absolutely doesn't deserve, this affection and kindness, but the way it makes his heart race and his body feel light is addictive, and welcome.
Less welcome is that flash of sadness, of trepidation from Ignis. How he wants to pry, to ask for secrets he wouldn't himself give. How he wants to dig so deeply into Ignis' heart that he forgets how dreadful his own is. So moments like this can take him by surprise, overwhelm him, and give him hope. Every gentle touch is memorable, and he maps out the way Ignis moves so carefully in his mind, dedicates the way his lips feel to a memory that he'll keep close.
This affection... it will undo Albert. But how, and how quickly, he still doesn't know. His voice is soft, hardly more than a breathy rush of syllables, so taken is he.]
You are the most welcome distraction I've ever had, dear Ignis.
[He wants him to stay. This is too picturesque of a moment to let go of easily. He wants to hold Ignis in his arms and be held, to kiss him and breathe the same air. He wants to cling so tightly, just for a moment, that he forgets that he is beyond redemption and not worthy of this at all.
Still, this dear man is a realist in certain key ways, and Albert is, too. Surely he's occupied for most of the day.]
But... if you must go, I understand. You only stopped by to invite me for later. You're probably terribly busy yourself, and we'll see each other in a few hours.
no subject
he looks back at him, really looks, memorising every inch of him -- and yet, it's still not enough -- the longing is overwhelming, powerfully pulsing in the bond that they share, like a siren's song calling out to him. albert doesn't want him to go, he thinks. so he kisses him again, breathes the same air as him before he slowly pulls away, releasing him from his hold.
they both have things to do and places to go, and despite feeling like a reckless teenager, ignis knows that he must leave for the day. he runs his fingers through albert's soft hair again, cupping his face briefly before he definitively steps away. his heart is still racing, even as he picks up on albert's thoughts, skimming the surface of it. despite not being able to grasp them, he can sense that lightness, that wonder.
albert's choice chases the shadows from his own thoughts away. ignis will face them on his own time, come to terms with the inevitable future that descends upon him -- that one day, albert's face will truly only be a memory. ]
So we will.
[ he says finally, with a soft smile. saying goodbye is such sweet sorrow, but they will meet again tonight. ]
I'll come for you in a few hours, Albert. Dress casually, we are visiting some lively places tonight.
no subject
One last, slow kiss, the very act stealing Albert's breath, and one last meeting of eyes... Albert knows this moment can't last forever, that he has packing and furnishing to do, and Ignis surely has many engagements as well. But he allows himself for one last, precious moment to be captivated entirely.]
I'll be waiting for you, dearest Ignis.
no subject
it truly is agony to tear himself away -- with ignis realising that spending more time with albert only makes him crave him more, instead of simply satisfying himself with his company. he can't have enough of albert, his wit, his kindness, that warmth and gentleness and yet that sharp edge, too, the strength of his convictions and their shared experiences. their connection is stronger than anything that ignis has ever experienced, and when they part ways, he moves quickly through all his tasks until he's finally, finally done.
he reaches albert's home five minutes early, having washed up with a new change of clothes, this time more casual with a simple black button-up shirt and suspenders, sleeves folded to his elbows neatly. he knocks, and this time he comes with a large bouquet of two dozen red, red roses. ]
no subject
When Ignis knocks, he'll be greeted moments later by Albert in a soft, casual, deep purple shirt, the collar unfastened to show his amethyst gemstone at his throat, his own sleeves rolled up much in the fashion of Ignis' own.
He's ready with a greeting, but it dies on his lips at the sight of the flowers.]
...For me?
no subject
the dark purple suits him, and it takes ignis only a moment to realise that albert, sweet albert is starting to dress like him. he smiles, warm and tender and delighted as he offers him the large bouquet. ]
I am only sorry that they're not as stunning as you.
[ he tells him with a soft smile, musing. ]
Perhaps I should wear green the next time I see you.
no subject
[Albert takes the flowers with a gentle, enigmatic smile, pulling them close and looking at them for a long, fond moment.
Then his head snaps up.]
Pardon me, where are my manners? Would you like to come inside for a moment, or shall we be off?