[ well. that settles it! he'll have to resort to more... insidious measures to get what he wants. what does floyd want? great question. probably something to get riddle to lose that frown, replace it with something that has less scorn behind it. not that he's actually mad or anything; there might be displeasure but it's not particularly sharp. it doesn't make floyd's spine shiver, not even a little. ]
Then how 'bout I sit next to ya and when ya wanna take a lil' break... I'll already be here for ya.
[ and maybe he'll learn through osmosis as well? floyd, again, is careful to get off the table this time without kicking something off. it's still tempting to do it but he's going to behave! he's going to make his little rose happy! and by doing that, he will reap the rewards of being a sneaky eel. a sneakeel. that he's graceful enough to slide into a seat next to the little queen, fit himself neatly against him so that their legs touch and that floyd can reach behind him is... definitely a thing. ]
Won't that be boring for you? There's no need for you to while away quietly for my sake...
[ his frown softens up, a small pout that's less angry and more concerned, sheepish. when's the last time someone offered to simply be with him, while he studied silently no less? the answer is a big fat never. of course gorgeous boys have countless things they would rather be doing, all of which include leaving reedy little bookworms in the dust. truthfully, riddle couldn't blame anyone for never considering something so nonsensical. a waste of time, he would have chalked it up as.
riddle wants to harbor his suspicions, but when floyd eases himself off the table, distinctly not sending books and papers and pencils flying about, it's hard to remain steadfast. a light warmth rises to his cheeks when floyd sidles right up to him, close as could be without being flush against him, their legs touching. ]
Yes, you are, but this time it is through no fault of your own.
[ his gaze flickers up and down the other boy's form, taking in how relaxed he seems, how cheery he looks just to be in his presence. it's hard not to stare, especially when thoughts of all the other things they could be occupying their time with flash through his mind-- but riddle shakes his head, and turns his attention back to the pile of work before him, picking his pencil back up and turning the page of the book in front of him. ]
Once I finish this section, perhaps we can do an activity of your choosing? Fair is fair, after all.
[ well now! that's an interesting admission that riddle makes right in front of floyd's metaphorical salad, so to speak. that while the merman is here and clearly pushing those stretching boundaries, it's not because of him that riddle's become somewhat distracted? obviously not enough to keep him from finishing a section of that work. he's still a studious and disciplined queen. the harder he works, the better the play should be afterward.
so maybe... floyd sees himself as the reward... he's the prize! ]
Anything? Ya mean it? 'cause ya know what I'd want.
[ he withdraws that one arm so he can instead place his hand right in riddle's lap. that he can rest his hand on his thigh. his thumb rubbing circles while his fingers squeezing the inner part, a place that he's intimately familiar with already. he has favorite places to touch, to massage, to dig those fingertips into. ]
So why don't ya tell me what you're workin' on now.
[ maybe that's it. maybe floyd is the reward for being so diligent and thorough with his work. maybe he even wants to push through his work and get right to the prize-- a thought he would have balked at before, but riddle has few things in his life that make him feel, well, alive. few things that are more interesting than learning out of a book. the hands-on approach floyd has taken with him recently has been especially effective.
besides, who's to say floyd isn't getting rewarded too? when that big rough hand slides atop his thigh to squeeze and massage, riddle doesn't rebuff it. on the contrary, he glances down at it, flickers his own gaze over to floyd's lap, up his arm, to his neck, to his face, those lips and that mischievous smile.
riddle takes a soft and steady breath. ]
I meant what I said. You come up with good ideas for activities from time to time. Lately, you've become better at choosing ones we both enjoy.
[ in many respects, not just the kind related to flesh. whipping floyd into shape is coming along brilliantly. sure, he drives riddle crazy as much as he always does, but there's a balance being struck that makes the insanity worth it-- at least to riddle. could it be the fiery queen is the one who is being whipped into shape, in that case?
it's not something he wants to think about. not right now. his sole interest lies in getting through the last bit of this chapter he, quite frankly, doesn't care about anymore. still, he knows he'll be bothered by it if he leaves his notes incomplete. almost robotically, he begins to peruse, write, peruse, write. ]
I'm just finishing up yesterday's History of Alchemy lecture. Currently, I'm adding onto the fifth century Neverland timeline.
[ riddle's fun. he's entertaining and interesting and enchanting and all those kinds of things. he may not say it with his words but he does it with his actions. that he's been... better, and it hasn't gone unnoticed by both azul and his twin brother. both of them know what's going on. floyd doesn't hide his affections nor does he shy away from being open about where he goes and who he spends his time with. that he's become a little more thoughtful, but that's it, and only towards one specific individual. ]
Ya really mean that? [ oh. this pleases the eel. ] Thought ya liked doin' that paintin' thing, even though it got a little messy.
[ floyd had gotten into doing acrylic pours and it just so happened that in the process, he might've gotten carried away and... well. let's just say most of their canvases ended up having very unique patterns after they were done. he probably would never be trusted to help with painting those roses if ever asked, that's for sure. (also it's not his dorm)
watching riddle return to his notetaking is definitely less fun for him, but it's something that the other must do. it's in his nature. leave nothing incomplete, follow the routine, be unfaltering in the strict nature that his dorm embodies the most. it's cute. ]
Do ya think you'll ever need to know everythin'?
[ he's curious, that's all. it's why his hand doesn't move any further. he keeps it anchored there, almost using it to steady himself more than anything else. yes, he could... be pretty naughty all things considered but he's holding back. letting things build. ]
I did enjoy that, yes. I would hesitate to call anything we created art, but I liked the experience nonetheless. I still laugh when I remember how silly we looked by the time we finished.
[ it's a lovely memory, and recounting it has riddle smiling softly and slowing in his writing. of course he freaked out and yelled at first, but the inherent chaoticness of the activity, coupled with floyd's guiding whimsy, made it easy for riddle to set his ego aside in favor of disorganized splatters and patterns that made sense only to him.
surely it'll be fine to leave out a few superfluous details in these notes... plus, it's only a timeline, it doesn't need to be overly elaborate. riddle nods to himself as he elects to skip a few paragraphs. what can he say? floyd's presence is starting to lift his mood. ]
Everything? Certainly not. I wager most information will become lost in my daily life, and I'll only remember the things that are important to me. That's simply how the brain works.
[ a turn of a page, though he doesn't immediately begin reading. ]
Even so, I still want to learn and experience as much as I can.
[ he looks up at floyd, giving the other boy a soft smile. ]
[ it wouldn't be a classic FloRid™ outing if it didn't involve the both of them getting loud, one of them probably getting exasperated and slightly upset while the other just likes being loud for any reason that he's been given. either way, the one salvageable work of art that made it out without any real blemishes hangs proudly in floyd's room. critics agree that it was born from passion or something pretty close to it, and that it deserves its spot right next to the moray merch that's been accumulating.
but he has a good enough eye to know that... is goldfishie really skipping over some details? is he rushing? very interesting! how does floyd know this? just a guess. maybe a hopeful one at that. ]
Then it sounds like I got a normal brain, don't it~
[ fickle. moody. that's him. he'll cling onto something and then when something else comes along, he dives onto it. but those are those things that don't deserve a lot of attention in the first place; the few that he holds onto are rare, but... he can do it. he will do it.
and that's why those last words hit differently, causing floyd's heart to skip a beat. he really means it. that look riddle gives him? in the past, he might be caught off-balance by it. that he would be confused and almost intimidated by the nature of that warmth. but now? he embraces it. and it feels like riddle has done the same, so. that makes him... happy.
that hand in riddle's lap has been places and it returns to a comfortable and familiar place. back up and around the smaller boy, to curl it around him, wriggling behind riddle's upper back so that he can squeeze him against his side. ]
I already know what's important to me!~
[ he lets that moment sit for a second or two, before adding: ]
Anyway. When you're done with your notes, can I take a peek at 'em? Promise I won't make a copy or anythin'.
I don't know if I would go so far as to say your brain is normal, but certainly, your memory works as it should.
[ floyd's eccentricity is what makes him him, for better or for worse. he can't imagine this troublesome boy feeling any sort of anguish over how his mind flits from thought to thought, fancy to fancy. to be fair, riddle supposes, this may very well be woefully uncharted territory for him. it's an oddly comforting thought.
especially when he makes that boyishly sweet and delighted face at his last comment. riddle would daresay letting his guard down and using a tender hand on the merman is worth it sometimes. he gets a sincere, warm embrace out of it, not one of those bullying squeezes meant to antagonize. this one too is sweet, delighted. riddle leans into it willingly, if only for a moment, to relish in how good it feels to be desired. ]
I'm beginning to learn as well.
[ he draws away just enough to squeeze some tiny text onto his paper before starting another block of text. ]
Yes. Feel free. Perhaps you can give me your input on the last half? I want to work on condensing my information in a more effective manner, in order to save time. You and my residents keep me so busy these days-- I can't quite justify being superfluous anymore.
[ who knew being less of a cruel shrieking tyrant would reap such not-lonely rewards? ]
[ he fits neatly against floyd's side and that brings a feeling of satisfaction that he's rarely felt before in his life. it just hits differently; while he would say that he and his brother are inseparable, the way that riddle nestles into his body is far more intimate. a closeness that goes past the physical and leaves an imprint that not even the most capricious merman can ignore. it doesn't just benefit him, after all. ]
Ya definitely write a lot. And the way ya do it, ya might as well be the one givin' the lectures.
[ he's pissed trein off more times than he can count. he can only imagine it'd be more interesting if it were riddle up there... floyd definitely couldn't get away with anything if that happened though. ]
Could probably condense things a lil' more. Imagine if ya were writin' 'em for me. Think I'd even get past the first two lines?
[ using himself as an example feels like a natural way for him to think about it, only because if he were a future audience for such material, there's no way floyd would want to read too much. the old KISS method comes to mind. there's also the new kiss method, having the top of riddle's head available. it's right there, free real estate. how could he not press his face into it, nosing through the soft hair, indulging himself with the subtle scent of roses. ]
Is that right? That defeats the purpose of having notes, so there is great room for improvement. Oh, bother.
[ riddle has heard this sort of thing before, but floyd is the first to put it so frankly. by virtue of being something important to him, the other boy avoids a beheading for failing to sugarcoat his criticisms. ]
You do have a point... Were these notes for my reference only, it wouldn't matter so much. I hold study groups, however, so being able to reference information quickly and concisely is of the utmost importance. If I were writing them for you...
[ his thoughts are similar; riddle can't imagine someone with a photographic memory needing to bother with more than a sentence or two of information per point. the best way to get floyd to study would be through positive reinforcement. kisses, smiles, compliments-- ah, but that certainly won't be an option for his residents...
while floyd busies himself with a garden of soft hair, riddle is touching his chin in thought...before ultimately growling and erasing the entirety of his timeline. ]
The notes themselves are a timeline. I should have simply made a visual instead of writing all this out... I dread the thought of throwing all this work out, so I will apply your advice next time.
[ he makes a note to invest in some graph paper for this future endeavor; riddle picks up the small stack of papers, straightens them on the table, then (without tilting his head, of course) offers them to floyd. ]
Feel free to look as much as you'd like-- But do not bend them.
[ unsurprisingly, it bothers him if his notes aren't uniform. ]
[ yes. positive reinforcement through cute and romantic gestures from the housewarden of heartslabyul would probably get most to recoil in fear. then again, floyd is anything but part of the 'most'. he's the one that has acclimated to riddle's behavior, to his succinct and direct nature. to his diligence, to his strictness, but he's no longer some inflexible flower made of cracked glass. he's something much better. someone more fun, someone that his juniors respect more than they did before. ]
Couldn't imagin' ya throwin' anythin' this important out. If ya work hard... ya should keep some kinda proof that ya did it...
[ knowledge is probably enough, but. it never hurts to have something physical in hand.
he does take those already written notes though and beings to peruse them. getting halfway through is probably his limit, which he acknowledges he's already bored even before he gets through the first section pertaining to the hows and whys of rudimentary alchemy and comparing the methods to today's standards and... ]
Eh. Think I got it all.
[ back to aggressively snuggling his partner, who has gone long enough without a more handsy floyd. ]
So this would be a good time to take a break, yeah?~
I agree wholeheartedly. These notes can still be used as a study tool. Perhaps I'll have everyone use them to make visuals? This is something I will give dedicated attention to at a later time.
[ the thought makes him feel a little bit better. being considerate of others and being cared about is still relatively uncharted territory for riddle. his residents have been warming up to him, slowly but surely, and consciously practicing lenience with floyd has opened him to numerous fun experiences he never thought he would be capable of having with the other boy. riddle hates when annoying people are right, but in this case, he must concede: being flexible isn't always so bad (sometimes).
floyd is done so quickly, riddle barely has time to blink and turn in his direction. ]
Normally I would encourage you to push through and continue, but I did promise to play with you once I finished. I would say I'm done for the night. Is there anything you would like to do?
[ in terms of benevolence, he would say that riddle might be second to azul--- and never openly to either of them. being around both about half of the time, almost an even split, it's how they go about their ways of displaying it that makes it all the more interesting. that the little rosy queen would share his knowledge with others if only to ensure they would learn from it... no cost attached. crazy.
flexibility is key. and the more flexible one becomes, the better. ]
Yeah, there is!
[ all thoughts of studying and retaining said knowledge has gone out the window. it's now about fun. so what does someone like floyd want to do when riddle has finally completed his task? ]
Guessin' a swim is probably outta the question... let's go back to your room. 'kay?~
A swim is absolutely "outta the question." It would be a massive rule violation. A quiet night in in my room sounds just splendid, however.
[ with a quick nod, riddle stands before picking up the neat arrangement of books and notes, and tucks them to his chest. he turns to floyd with a small, warm smile. ]
Shall we be off? Heartslabyul can be confusing at times, so stay close. We can't have you tumbling into a rabbit hole, now.
[ a bit of wonderland humor. riddle thinks it's hilarious, but keeps his tittering to himself in favor of leading floyd towards one end of the double-sided staircase in the back of the dorm lounge. up and all around they go, to the housewarden's quarters. ]
Be honest, Floyd. Do you really to tell me you didn't plan anything exciting when coming here? Is this really alright?
[ not that riddle dislikes the prospect of an evening inside, but he knows how floyd is. knows the other boy likes action and adventure. riddle doesn't want to be a killjoy-- he hears it enough from his residents. ]
[ look at him, so happy and clear-eyed. floyd can't help but wrap one arm protectively around the housewarden's shoulders, more than happy to play the part of a loyal boyfriend--- because he is. as flighty as he can be while at his best and indifferent and ignorant at his worst, he still keeps riddle in his thoughts at all times. perhaps he might be the only person he can focus on despite being one of the students most likely to follow every whim that passes through his head. ]
Ehhhhh, naaaah. Showin' up here was pretty much all I thought 'bout doin'. Did ya want me to spring somethin' on ya? 'cause I can. Still can, Goldfishie~
[ if that's what riddle wants, then that's what he can get. in fact--- every step they take towards the other's quarters, a new idea blossoms and then immediately disintegrates. a swim wasn't in their future, but what else could they do that might be similar? that might get riddle to both recoil but embrace? he might seem like he's zoning out, absentmindedly going through the motions as they approach the door and he nearly walks into it. ]
What aren't ya willin' to do?
[ this is a fake question. he's already got it in mind. ]
That isn't what I meant. I simply wanted to make sure you weren't missing out on something you wanted to do for my sake.
[ it's odd to admit for some reason. it feels embarrassing. vulnerable. but, riddle is notorious for wearing his heart on his sleeve even when he does his best to remain cool-headed and impartial. if there's anyone he should feel free to be vulnerable around, shouldn't it be his boyfriend who is surprisingly showing himself to be doting and attentive?
riddle's cheeks are red by the time they reach the door. before floyd can get into a fight with the doorknob, riddle lets them both in, and is mindful of closing it behind them before continuing. he lingers in place, watching floyd from wherever the other boy flitted off to. ]
I know our hobbies and interests are different, and the things I enjoy are considered boring by many... I would love nothing more than a relaxing night in, but it is your turn to choose our activity.
[ with a few careful steps forward, riddle contemplates the fake question, unaware that floyd already has wonderful plan in store for them. ]
Swimming, sports, anything messy... Other than that, whatever you want to do, I will try to be open to it. Fair is fair.
[ ah, so it seems like having a 'who can bite the hardest' contest is out of the question. damn. something that floyd could easily win without a sweat... which would also be messy. probably. he's hearing riddle but he's also digging into his pocket, pulling out his phone along with a few other random candy wrappers and also something that he might need for later--- a condom. hey, always be prepared. ]
Eh, we don't have to share all the same things. We just gotta share the important ones. And borin' really isn't somethin' I care about either 'cause everythin' gets like that eventually...
[ trailing off as he impatiently smacks the screen a few times. ]
.. but not people. Been 'round Azul and Jade forever, ya know. Anyway!
[ finally, the phone obeys floyd's taps and out of it begins some music. something that is... probably not something anyone would expect the eel to listen to. he holds out his hand with a snicker and bows slightly. ]
[ a hum of thought. oddly enough, what the other boy is saying makes sense. unlike hobbies, people are complex and ever-changing. will floyd really be able to stay fascinated with him long enough to one day fall in love? riddle himself doesn't know exactly how he feels... just that he knows he doesn't want floyd to leave him in the dust, or ever end up finding him dull. if they could go on, learning about each other and the world around them together forever... if he could make sense of his inner demons and just admit he wants to fall in love too--
he shakes his head just in time to examine the small mess that comes out of floyd's pocket along with his phone. the condom doesn't go amiss to him, and it's enough to get his cheeks turning bright red, riddle turning away momentarily to hide his embarrassment. he has lubricant in the top drawer of his side table. something about floyd being ready for him no matter the occasion is flattering. ]
...I suppose that makes sense. I imagine it's impossible to grow weary of your childhood friends. Having people whom you know will be by your side forever must be a comforting feeling.
[ but, riddle doesn't want to think about what life after college will be like. if his mother will allow him to keep his friendships, or if life will return to the way it was before he left.
he wants to think of the elegant, romantic melody coming from floyd's phone. the housewarden turns to face the other boy just in time to watch him bow, hand extended like a gentleman. riddle can't help help chuckling behind a hand. ]
Well, I would be remiss not to accept. Yes, let us.
[ with a smile, riddle gives a small curtsey, before placing his tiny hand in floyd's. with slow and purposeful steps, he closes the distance between them. ]
I am well-versed in several waltzes, and the polonaise. I have a feeling we won't be following any sort of traditional steps, however.
[ when the moment strikes... then it strikes. he'd be a fool to never be prepared for riddle. it's not just floyd who craves a deeper, more carnal desire now and then. something about the other always being in a state of concentrated determination when it comes to his studies always means there's an equally powerful need to sate those physical urges. and the more they're together, the more often he doesn't hide it. he doesn't have to. even better that floyd keeps his teeth out of the equation out of respect; no one wants to explain a particularly bitey merman's markings to the school nurse. ]
What do ya mean? I know how to dance to music like this!
[ yes. deliberate steps that take account of their size difference. their step size, their foot size, all of those things. that he keeps his other hand on riddle's back, forearm barely touching his shoulder. it's good they're in a private space--- they'd probably look ridiculous together? or they'd make everyone around them so jealous that the dance would become a brawl. that'd be fun too.
but there's a little trick to this track. something that riddle might not anticipate while floyd knows. he's a certified knower. that for every thirty seconds that play, the tempo seems to... increase by a few bpms. that instead of staying slow in the first three minutes, there's a gradual accelerando that's been added to this waltz. ]
Fun dance, huh?
[ while riddle might have the upperhand in experience, floyd has it in knowledge. will he be able to keep up? he's not bothered by the speed because, well, he just likes moving. he likes swaying from side to side. being fluid. and if he can find that moment where riddle can't keep up, he'll take over. far from swinging the housewarden around in his room, but he's not afraid to lead.
it's not quite chaotic. but it's definitely not a waltz anymore. ]
[ at first he raises a brow, dubious of the merman's claim. floyd? knowing traditional steps? following rules? riddle will believe it when he sees it.
and see it he does-- floyd leads them flawlessly, as if he's been waltzing longer than he's had legs. counting the beats, the measures, taking longer and wider steps in accordance to them. riddle would sooner fellate a cactus than admit it, but truthfully he's rusty. sure, he was taught extensively in the royal ways, it was a necessity given his mother's reputation, but his academics took precedence above all else. there are moments where he falls out of step, is too short to keep up, even nudges floyd's shoe with the tip of his boot...but floyd covers for him, and so seamlessly at that. riddle doesn't have time to scold himself or feel foolish.
in fact: ]
It is rather fun. I can't remember when I last enjoyed dancing like this.
[ probably never, but the longer they go on, the more improvised their steps become, and soon riddle finds himself giggling now and then; when their turns are extra sharp, when their sweeps are larger than what would be considered normal, he barks with laughter when he nearly stumbles into floyd. needless to say, this is more than "rather" fun.
can they dance like this forever? riddle wonders this with fondness as he gives a wide twirl away, squeezing floyd's hand, only to spin back into him, pressed against the other boy's body, staring up into those mismatched eyes. riddle can't bring himself to move or look away, his cheeks bright red and eyes glimmering with delight. he knows they should be dancing, but riddle can't help himself. he just...really, really likes the merman holding him close like this. ]
[ improvisation is key, though floyd would never consciously do such a thing. whenever riddle feels like his balance is about to be upended, he adjusts--- weight shifts. an extra step. something that keeps them in line with the beat but doesn't throw them both off kilter. that he keeps his hands anchored where they are until they aren't, letting riddle stretch out and away for a brief moment. he's in the moment. they both are. and he's dazzling, radiant, a gem at the bottom of the sea. happiness is fleeting and floyd is dimly aware of that too. maybe one day they'll get to dance again like this, except instead of on human legs, they'd do it in the water.
thoughts like those are what distract him. scenarios of which they'd be just as fun or even more, which leads him to slowing down. that while his body is moving his mind is somewhere else--- but only at the end once the music stops and he's left sweating, breathing heavier than he'd like. that his eyes stay fixed upon the cute little curl of his goldfishie's hair, then down to his eyes. they shine. he loves it. he loves them. covets them. ]
Hey, ya really hung on there. Pretty impressive~
[ deep, slow breaths. the kind that, when he lowers his face down to the top of riddle's head, he can take a long one. inhaling in his scent. he really... he's really fond of the boy. in the kind of way that could drive him crazy if he were to think long and hard about him. ]
[ gloating and blustering would be his typical response. in spite of his rustiness, riddle would still be skilled enough to survive a waltz, and more importantly-- by now, he knows floyd well enough to match his steps well enough. maybe he'll stumble now and then, lag behind sometimes, step on his toes, but riddle swears he'll always be there. by his side, in his arms, no matter the occasion.
dancing is hard work, especially in heavy high-heeled boots, so riddle too is winded. he swears that's why his heart could pound its way out of his chest, doubly so when he feels the shape of floyd's smile against his head. riddle's eyes flutter shut in longing, unconsciously leaning into the taller boy. his face couldn't get hotter-- or so he thinks. ]
Mm... I believe I do as well.
[ the heat reaches the tips of his ears, and riddle doesn't know when his hands found themselves gripping the front of floyd's shirt, but they are. his throat feels dry, his lips tingle. it takes far too much courage to say what he does, even though intellectually riddle can't imagine being denied. ]
My tub is large enough to fit both of us...if you find the idea agreeable.
[ there's no world where floyd could deny riddle this kind of indulgence--- the ultimate kind. the personal kind. they have the luxury of privacy, having a housewarden's private quarters and bathroom. he's seen azul's a few times but never had the opportunity to use them. here, however... he can live like a king. or prince. or whatever role riddle would want him to occupy. he doesn't mind going along for the ride if that's how the flow is taking him.
but right now, he looks. well. ripe for the taking. ]
Thought ya'd never ask. [ even if it was floyd's idea. an offer is better than just walking in without saying anything. first things first: those lips need some attention, and floyd is more than happy to provide it.
it's not the kind of romantic and gentle kiss that riddle might've expected, but something way more realistic: hot and firm, a touch harsh and bruising. that floyd doesn't hold back, grinding the meat of his lips into riddle's. after all--- they just had a pretty intense dance, so it doesn't lack passion. one arm snakes behind to allow his hand to cradle the back of riddle's head, to keep him steady. to keep him from wilting due to the pressure. ]
[ so floyd had the same idea? riddle can't help a sigh of relief, even though he knew the other boy would say yes. he knows their desire for each other is mutual-- perhaps it's the prospect of being seen as needy, or weak to floyd's touch. of being too much so soon, even though floyd went into this relationship knowing riddle has always held a fascination with him, wants to be loved by him.
would that be such a bad thing if he was needy? he's certainly weak to the merman's touch whether he wants to admit it or not. when their lips press together, and hard at that, riddle instantly melts, taking steps closer until he's able to cradle their bodies together, his arms stretched up so he can drape them over floyd's shoulders.
rather than coax the other boy's tongue into his mouth immediately, riddle thinks back to their previous kissing lessons. floyd likes teeth, floyd likes when he gets hedonistic and wild. riddle drags his teeth over that insistent bottom lip nudging hard and full against his own, nibbles it, runs his tongue over it. he can't help feeding floyd a soft, curious little noise.
nor can he help one of his hands coming down to finger the first button of his shirt. ]
[ it's always a funny thing to him when they hug. when they kiss. that he has to sort of bend slightly in some way in order to make it as comfortable as possible for them both. but therein lies one of the more interesting things--- that both have to adjust. they have to meet each other halfway. if there's anything floyd knows it's recognizing what is and isn't fair in front of him. he's not going to let riddle have everything he wants, nor does he expect it from the little red rose.
both eyebrows rise upon the feeling of teeth against his bottom lip and he feels a swelling of pride in his chest. he's positive there's no where in any of those books of his that says anything about utilizing those pearly whites to show affection in any form. that would be crass! unbecoming! so it's all baby steps from here on out and riddle knows what floyd likes, and he's just... ooh, so thrilled. it sends a chill down his spine. ]
Here, lemme help ya out...
[ hands cover riddle's, rest on top of them, help him sneak each button out from its hole. does it really help or hurt to rush? the longer they take, the longer they can kiss. but the faster they do will help reveal floyd's upper body, with all the definition and length that he has. ]
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Then how 'bout I sit next to ya and when ya wanna take a lil' break... I'll already be here for ya.
[ and maybe he'll learn through osmosis as well? floyd, again, is careful to get off the table this time without kicking something off. it's still tempting to do it but he's going to behave! he's going to make his little rose happy! and by doing that, he will reap the rewards of being a sneaky eel. a sneakeel. that he's graceful enough to slide into a seat next to the little queen, fit himself neatly against him so that their legs touch and that floyd can reach behind him is... definitely a thing. ]
Am I still distractin'?
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[ his frown softens up, a small pout that's less angry and more concerned, sheepish. when's the last time someone offered to simply be with him, while he studied silently no less? the answer is a big fat never. of course gorgeous boys have countless things they would rather be doing, all of which include leaving reedy little bookworms in the dust. truthfully, riddle couldn't blame anyone for never considering something so nonsensical. a waste of time, he would have chalked it up as.
riddle wants to harbor his suspicions, but when floyd eases himself off the table, distinctly not sending books and papers and pencils flying about, it's hard to remain steadfast. a light warmth rises to his cheeks when floyd sidles right up to him, close as could be without being flush against him, their legs touching. ]
Yes, you are, but this time it is through no fault of your own.
[ his gaze flickers up and down the other boy's form, taking in how relaxed he seems, how cheery he looks just to be in his presence. it's hard not to stare, especially when thoughts of all the other things they could be occupying their time with flash through his mind-- but riddle shakes his head, and turns his attention back to the pile of work before him, picking his pencil back up and turning the page of the book in front of him. ]
Once I finish this section, perhaps we can do an activity of your choosing? Fair is fair, after all.
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so maybe... floyd sees himself as the reward... he's the prize! ]
Anything? Ya mean it? 'cause ya know what I'd want.
[ he withdraws that one arm so he can instead place his hand right in riddle's lap. that he can rest his hand on his thigh. his thumb rubbing circles while his fingers squeezing the inner part, a place that he's intimately familiar with already. he has favorite places to touch, to massage, to dig those fingertips into. ]
So why don't ya tell me what you're workin' on now.
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besides, who's to say floyd isn't getting rewarded too? when that big rough hand slides atop his thigh to squeeze and massage, riddle doesn't rebuff it. on the contrary, he glances down at it, flickers his own gaze over to floyd's lap, up his arm, to his neck, to his face, those lips and that mischievous smile.
riddle takes a soft and steady breath. ]
I meant what I said. You come up with good ideas for activities from time to time. Lately, you've become better at choosing ones we both enjoy.
[ in many respects, not just the kind related to flesh. whipping floyd into shape is coming along brilliantly. sure, he drives riddle crazy as much as he always does, but there's a balance being struck that makes the insanity worth it-- at least to riddle. could it be the fiery queen is the one who is being whipped into shape, in that case?
it's not something he wants to think about. not right now. his sole interest lies in getting through the last bit of this chapter he, quite frankly, doesn't care about anymore. still, he knows he'll be bothered by it if he leaves his notes incomplete. almost robotically, he begins to peruse, write, peruse, write. ]
I'm just finishing up yesterday's History of Alchemy lecture. Currently, I'm adding onto the fifth century Neverland timeline.
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Ya really mean that? [ oh. this pleases the eel. ] Thought ya liked doin' that paintin' thing, even though it got a little messy.
[ floyd had gotten into doing acrylic pours and it just so happened that in the process, he might've gotten carried away and... well. let's just say most of their canvases ended up having very unique patterns after they were done. he probably would never be trusted to help with painting those roses if ever asked, that's for sure. (also it's not his dorm)
watching riddle return to his notetaking is definitely less fun for him, but it's something that the other must do. it's in his nature. leave nothing incomplete, follow the routine, be unfaltering in the strict nature that his dorm embodies the most. it's cute. ]
Do ya think you'll ever need to know everythin'?
[ he's curious, that's all. it's why his hand doesn't move any further. he keeps it anchored there, almost using it to steady himself more than anything else. yes, he could... be pretty naughty all things considered but he's holding back. letting things build. ]
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I did enjoy that, yes. I would hesitate to call anything we created art, but I liked the experience nonetheless. I still laugh when I remember how silly we looked by the time we finished.
[ it's a lovely memory, and recounting it has riddle smiling softly and slowing in his writing. of course he freaked out and yelled at first, but the inherent chaoticness of the activity, coupled with floyd's guiding whimsy, made it easy for riddle to set his ego aside in favor of disorganized splatters and patterns that made sense only to him.
surely it'll be fine to leave out a few superfluous details in these notes... plus, it's only a timeline, it doesn't need to be overly elaborate. riddle nods to himself as he elects to skip a few paragraphs. what can he say? floyd's presence is starting to lift his mood. ]
Everything? Certainly not. I wager most information will become lost in my daily life, and I'll only remember the things that are important to me. That's simply how the brain works.
[ a turn of a page, though he doesn't immediately begin reading. ]
Even so, I still want to learn and experience as much as I can.
[ he looks up at floyd, giving the other boy a soft smile. ]
You never know what will become important to you.
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but he has a good enough eye to know that... is goldfishie really skipping over some details? is he rushing? very interesting! how does floyd know this? just a guess. maybe a hopeful one at that. ]
Then it sounds like I got a normal brain, don't it~
[ fickle. moody. that's him. he'll cling onto something and then when something else comes along, he dives onto it. but those are those things that don't deserve a lot of attention in the first place; the few that he holds onto are rare, but... he can do it. he will do it.
and that's why those last words hit differently, causing floyd's heart to skip a beat. he really means it. that look riddle gives him? in the past, he might be caught off-balance by it. that he would be confused and almost intimidated by the nature of that warmth. but now? he embraces it. and it feels like riddle has done the same, so. that makes him... happy.
that hand in riddle's lap has been places and it returns to a comfortable and familiar place. back up and around the smaller boy, to curl it around him, wriggling behind riddle's upper back so that he can squeeze him against his side. ]
I already know what's important to me!~
[ he lets that moment sit for a second or two, before adding: ]
Anyway. When you're done with your notes, can I take a peek at 'em? Promise I won't make a copy or anythin'.
[ they'd probably fetch a few bucks... ]
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[ floyd's eccentricity is what makes him him, for better or for worse. he can't imagine this troublesome boy feeling any sort of anguish over how his mind flits from thought to thought, fancy to fancy. to be fair, riddle supposes, this may very well be woefully uncharted territory for him. it's an oddly comforting thought.
especially when he makes that boyishly sweet and delighted face at his last comment. riddle would daresay letting his guard down and using a tender hand on the merman is worth it sometimes. he gets a sincere, warm embrace out of it, not one of those bullying squeezes meant to antagonize. this one too is sweet, delighted. riddle leans into it willingly, if only for a moment, to relish in how good it feels to be desired. ]
I'm beginning to learn as well.
[ he draws away just enough to squeeze some tiny text onto his paper before starting another block of text. ]
Yes. Feel free. Perhaps you can give me your input on the last half? I want to work on condensing my information in a more effective manner, in order to save time. You and my residents keep me so busy these days-- I can't quite justify being superfluous anymore.
[ who knew being less of a cruel shrieking tyrant would reap such not-lonely rewards? ]
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Ya definitely write a lot. And the way ya do it, ya might as well be the one givin' the lectures.
[ he's pissed trein off more times than he can count. he can only imagine it'd be more interesting if it were riddle up there... floyd definitely couldn't get away with anything if that happened though. ]
Could probably condense things a lil' more. Imagine if ya were writin' 'em for me. Think I'd even get past the first two lines?
[ using himself as an example feels like a natural way for him to think about it, only because if he were a future audience for such material, there's no way floyd would want to read too much. the old KISS method comes to mind. there's also the new kiss method, having the top of riddle's head available. it's right there, free real estate. how could he not press his face into it, nosing through the soft hair, indulging himself with the subtle scent of roses. ]
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[ riddle has heard this sort of thing before, but floyd is the first to put it so frankly. by virtue of being something important to him, the other boy avoids a beheading for failing to sugarcoat his criticisms. ]
You do have a point... Were these notes for my reference only, it wouldn't matter so much. I hold study groups, however, so being able to reference information quickly and concisely is of the utmost importance. If I were writing them for you...
[ his thoughts are similar; riddle can't imagine someone with a photographic memory needing to bother with more than a sentence or two of information per point. the best way to get floyd to study would be through positive reinforcement. kisses, smiles, compliments-- ah, but that certainly won't be an option for his residents...
while floyd busies himself with a garden of soft hair, riddle is touching his chin in thought...before ultimately growling and erasing the entirety of his timeline. ]
The notes themselves are a timeline. I should have simply made a visual instead of writing all this out... I dread the thought of throwing all this work out, so I will apply your advice next time.
[ he makes a note to invest in some graph paper for this future endeavor; riddle picks up the small stack of papers, straightens them on the table, then (without tilting his head, of course) offers them to floyd. ]
Feel free to look as much as you'd like-- But do not bend them.
[ unsurprisingly, it bothers him if his notes aren't uniform. ]
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Couldn't imagin' ya throwin' anythin' this important out. If ya work hard... ya should keep some kinda proof that ya did it...
[ knowledge is probably enough, but. it never hurts to have something physical in hand.
he does take those already written notes though and beings to peruse them. getting halfway through is probably his limit, which he acknowledges he's already bored even before he gets through the first section pertaining to the hows and whys of rudimentary alchemy and comparing the methods to today's standards and... ]
Eh. Think I got it all.
[ back to aggressively snuggling his partner, who has gone long enough without a more handsy floyd. ]
So this would be a good time to take a break, yeah?~
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I agree wholeheartedly. These notes can still be used as a study tool. Perhaps I'll have everyone use them to make visuals? This is something I will give dedicated attention to at a later time.
[ the thought makes him feel a little bit better. being considerate of others and being cared about is still relatively uncharted territory for riddle. his residents have been warming up to him, slowly but surely, and consciously practicing lenience with floyd has opened him to numerous fun experiences he never thought he would be capable of having with the other boy. riddle hates when annoying people are right, but in this case, he must concede: being flexible isn't always so bad (sometimes).
floyd is done so quickly, riddle barely has time to blink and turn in his direction. ]
Normally I would encourage you to push through and continue, but I did promise to play with you once I finished. I would say I'm done for the night. Is there anything you would like to do?
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flexibility is key. and the more flexible one becomes, the better. ]
Yeah, there is!
[ all thoughts of studying and retaining said knowledge has gone out the window. it's now about fun. so what does someone like floyd want to do when riddle has finally completed his task? ]
Guessin' a swim is probably outta the question... let's go back to your room. 'kay?~
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A swim is absolutely "outta the question." It would be a massive rule violation. A quiet night in in my room sounds just splendid, however.
[ with a quick nod, riddle stands before picking up the neat arrangement of books and notes, and tucks them to his chest. he turns to floyd with a small, warm smile. ]
Shall we be off? Heartslabyul can be confusing at times, so stay close. We can't have you tumbling into a rabbit hole, now.
[ a bit of wonderland humor. riddle thinks it's hilarious, but keeps his tittering to himself in favor of leading floyd towards one end of the double-sided staircase in the back of the dorm lounge. up and all around they go, to the housewarden's quarters. ]
Be honest, Floyd. Do you really to tell me you didn't plan anything exciting when coming here? Is this really alright?
[ not that riddle dislikes the prospect of an evening inside, but he knows how floyd is. knows the other boy likes action and adventure. riddle doesn't want to be a killjoy-- he hears it enough from his residents. ]
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Ehhhhh, naaaah. Showin' up here was pretty much all I thought 'bout doin'. Did ya want me to spring somethin' on ya? 'cause I can. Still can, Goldfishie~
[ if that's what riddle wants, then that's what he can get. in fact--- every step they take towards the other's quarters, a new idea blossoms and then immediately disintegrates. a swim wasn't in their future, but what else could they do that might be similar? that might get riddle to both recoil but embrace? he might seem like he's zoning out, absentmindedly going through the motions as they approach the door and he nearly walks into it. ]
What aren't ya willin' to do?
[ this is a fake question. he's already got it in mind. ]
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That isn't what I meant. I simply wanted to make sure you weren't missing out on something you wanted to do for my sake.
[ it's odd to admit for some reason. it feels embarrassing. vulnerable. but, riddle is notorious for wearing his heart on his sleeve even when he does his best to remain cool-headed and impartial. if there's anyone he should feel free to be vulnerable around, shouldn't it be his boyfriend who is surprisingly showing himself to be doting and attentive?
riddle's cheeks are red by the time they reach the door. before floyd can get into a fight with the doorknob, riddle lets them both in, and is mindful of closing it behind them before continuing. he lingers in place, watching floyd from wherever the other boy flitted off to. ]
I know our hobbies and interests are different, and the things I enjoy are considered boring by many... I would love nothing more than a relaxing night in, but it is your turn to choose our activity.
[ with a few careful steps forward, riddle contemplates the fake question, unaware that floyd already has wonderful plan in store for them. ]
Swimming, sports, anything messy... Other than that, whatever you want to do, I will try to be open to it. Fair is fair.
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Eh, we don't have to share all the same things. We just gotta share the important ones. And borin' really isn't somethin' I care about either 'cause everythin' gets like that eventually...
[ trailing off as he impatiently smacks the screen a few times. ]
.. but not people. Been 'round Azul and Jade forever, ya know. Anyway!
[ finally, the phone obeys floyd's taps and out of it begins some music. something that is... probably not something anyone would expect the eel to listen to. he holds out his hand with a snicker and bows slightly. ]
Let's dance.
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he shakes his head just in time to examine the small mess that comes out of floyd's pocket along with his phone. the condom doesn't go amiss to him, and it's enough to get his cheeks turning bright red, riddle turning away momentarily to hide his embarrassment. he has lubricant in the top drawer of his side table. something about floyd being ready for him no matter the occasion is flattering. ]
...I suppose that makes sense. I imagine it's impossible to grow weary of your childhood friends. Having people whom you know will be by your side forever must be a comforting feeling.
[ but, riddle doesn't want to think about what life after college will be like. if his mother will allow him to keep his friendships, or if life will return to the way it was before he left.
he wants to think of the elegant, romantic melody coming from floyd's phone. the housewarden turns to face the other boy just in time to watch him bow, hand extended like a gentleman. riddle can't help help chuckling behind a hand. ]
Well, I would be remiss not to accept. Yes, let us.
[ with a smile, riddle gives a small curtsey, before placing his tiny hand in floyd's. with slow and purposeful steps, he closes the distance between them. ]
I am well-versed in several waltzes, and the polonaise. I have a feeling we won't be following any sort of traditional steps, however.
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What do ya mean? I know how to dance to music like this!
[ yes. deliberate steps that take account of their size difference. their step size, their foot size, all of those things. that he keeps his other hand on riddle's back, forearm barely touching his shoulder. it's good they're in a private space--- they'd probably look ridiculous together? or they'd make everyone around them so jealous that the dance would become a brawl. that'd be fun too.
but there's a little trick to this track. something that riddle might not anticipate while floyd knows. he's a certified knower. that for every thirty seconds that play, the tempo seems to... increase by a few bpms. that instead of staying slow in the first three minutes, there's a gradual accelerando that's been added to this waltz. ]
Fun dance, huh?
[ while riddle might have the upperhand in experience, floyd has it in knowledge. will he be able to keep up? he's not bothered by the speed because, well, he just likes moving. he likes swaying from side to side. being fluid. and if he can find that moment where riddle can't keep up, he'll take over. far from swinging the housewarden around in his room, but he's not afraid to lead.
it's not quite chaotic. but it's definitely not a waltz anymore. ]
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and see it he does-- floyd leads them flawlessly, as if he's been waltzing longer than he's had legs. counting the beats, the measures, taking longer and wider steps in accordance to them. riddle would sooner fellate a cactus than admit it, but truthfully he's rusty. sure, he was taught extensively in the royal ways, it was a necessity given his mother's reputation, but his academics took precedence above all else. there are moments where he falls out of step, is too short to keep up, even nudges floyd's shoe with the tip of his boot...but floyd covers for him, and so seamlessly at that. riddle doesn't have time to scold himself or feel foolish.
in fact: ]
It is rather fun. I can't remember when I last enjoyed dancing like this.
[ probably never, but the longer they go on, the more improvised their steps become, and soon riddle finds himself giggling now and then; when their turns are extra sharp, when their sweeps are larger than what would be considered normal, he barks with laughter when he nearly stumbles into floyd. needless to say, this is more than "rather" fun.
can they dance like this forever? riddle wonders this with fondness as he gives a wide twirl away, squeezing floyd's hand, only to spin back into him, pressed against the other boy's body, staring up into those mismatched eyes. riddle can't bring himself to move or look away, his cheeks bright red and eyes glimmering with delight. he knows they should be dancing, but riddle can't help himself. he just...really, really likes the merman holding him close like this. ]
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thoughts like those are what distract him. scenarios of which they'd be just as fun or even more, which leads him to slowing down. that while his body is moving his mind is somewhere else--- but only at the end once the music stops and he's left sweating, breathing heavier than he'd like. that his eyes stay fixed upon the cute little curl of his goldfishie's hair, then down to his eyes. they shine. he loves it. he loves them. covets them. ]
Hey, ya really hung on there. Pretty impressive~
[ deep, slow breaths. the kind that, when he lowers his face down to the top of riddle's head, he can take a long one. inhaling in his scent. he really... he's really fond of the boy. in the kind of way that could drive him crazy if he were to think long and hard about him. ]
Could use a lil' bath. What 'bout you?
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dancing is hard work, especially in heavy high-heeled boots, so riddle too is winded. he swears that's why his heart could pound its way out of his chest, doubly so when he feels the shape of floyd's smile against his head. riddle's eyes flutter shut in longing, unconsciously leaning into the taller boy. his face couldn't get hotter-- or so he thinks. ]
Mm... I believe I do as well.
[ the heat reaches the tips of his ears, and riddle doesn't know when his hands found themselves gripping the front of floyd's shirt, but they are. his throat feels dry, his lips tingle. it takes far too much courage to say what he does, even though intellectually riddle can't imagine being denied. ]
My tub is large enough to fit both of us...if you find the idea agreeable.
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but right now, he looks. well. ripe for the taking. ]
Thought ya'd never ask. [ even if it was floyd's idea. an offer is better than just walking in without saying anything. first things first: those lips need some attention, and floyd is more than happy to provide it.
it's not the kind of romantic and gentle kiss that riddle might've expected, but something way more realistic: hot and firm, a touch harsh and bruising. that floyd doesn't hold back, grinding the meat of his lips into riddle's. after all--- they just had a pretty intense dance, so it doesn't lack passion. one arm snakes behind to allow his hand to cradle the back of riddle's head, to keep him steady. to keep him from wilting due to the pressure. ]
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would that be such a bad thing if he was needy? he's certainly weak to the merman's touch whether he wants to admit it or not. when their lips press together, and hard at that, riddle instantly melts, taking steps closer until he's able to cradle their bodies together, his arms stretched up so he can drape them over floyd's shoulders.
rather than coax the other boy's tongue into his mouth immediately, riddle thinks back to their previous kissing lessons. floyd likes teeth, floyd likes when he gets hedonistic and wild. riddle drags his teeth over that insistent bottom lip nudging hard and full against his own, nibbles it, runs his tongue over it. he can't help feeding floyd a soft, curious little noise.
nor can he help one of his hands coming down to finger the first button of his shirt. ]
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both eyebrows rise upon the feeling of teeth against his bottom lip and he feels a swelling of pride in his chest. he's positive there's no where in any of those books of his that says anything about utilizing those pearly whites to show affection in any form. that would be crass! unbecoming! so it's all baby steps from here on out and riddle knows what floyd likes, and he's just... ooh, so thrilled. it sends a chill down his spine. ]
Here, lemme help ya out...
[ hands cover riddle's, rest on top of them, help him sneak each button out from its hole. does it really help or hurt to rush? the longer they take, the longer they can kiss. but the faster they do will help reveal floyd's upper body, with all the definition and length that he has. ]
... curious hands might get ya in trouble~
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we are so f*cking back
lets f*cking gooooo
we dem boyzzzz
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