[Cherishing every moment is not something he has to be told to do twice. They had had precious little time together, watching the end of the final act playing out across so grand a stage, before they had both moved on together. Hythlodaeus would be lying if he said he had not the smallest amount of regret for not having needled him to stay a bit longer.
It could have been fun.
He's in the middle of a bite, listening to the other man speak and letting the sound of his voice roll over him, when he goes ahead and says that. It's just as well that Hythlodaeus had managed to swallow his mouthful because the way his breath catches in his throat would have surely had him choking.]
You-... [There is a single, slightly mortifying realisation in that moment. Though Hades has caught him by surprise several times already he has not said anything yet that has hit Hythlodaeus so squarely in the chest as this. He blinks rapidly then sets his fork down, pushing the heel of his hand lightly against the corner of his eye and giving a shaky laugh.] You have no idea what it does to me when you say things like that, do you?
[Or maybe he does. Hythlodaeus shakes his head.]
In all the time I spent in that strange dream... I still somehow noted your absence. I wondered, at times... if you knew how you might find me, but then I thought, no, if you knew, you would have come. [He picks his fork up again. Gives a small sniff as he pulls himself together.] But you should know, my dear Hades, that if you want me then I am yours. As I ever was.
[Not precisely as planned. It takes a moment for him to realize that it isn't the food or a sudden case of indigestion that has Hythlodaeus falling silent, it's that his friend seems dangerously close to openly weeping.]
[And this the very least of what he could say. The dish has rather lost its flavor, Emet-Selch brushing the plate and silverware to one side so that he might lean over the table, his brows knit.]
[How strange it is...this feeling. How long since he last spoke with utter authenticity. Not the truth, for truth's sake, but putting his own thoughts and emotions to words.]
If you would perhaps be willing to describe it in excruciating detail, then I might be provided some inkling.
[He says. His expression appears complicated, a brief moment of brevity - a hopeful quirk of his lips, before his expression turns serious once more. Emet-Selch folds his hands together on the table in front of him, shoulders squared as he shakes his head - Hythlodaeus may wish to withhold the fork a moment longer.]
The time you spent within Lord Zodiark, you mean? Aye, I knew where I might find you. What I did not know was what state I might find you in, nor what would occur should I attempt to retrieve you, nor whether you would come, having already made your decision.
Nay. My efforts were instead devoted entirely to the Rejoining, that you and everyone else might find some semblance of home to return to; as was our promise. Needless to say, we never dreamed that such a reunion would be so long in coming - not in the beginning at least.
[Another pause, and then.]
Hardly the most romantic of admissions, I confess. A paltry offering for your candor. Yet you should know that I do want you. As ever I did.
[The fork goes down again. A little more slowly this time, carefully placed against the edge of the quiche and its accompaniments. Hythlodaeus moves out of his chair, though it's only to shift himself (and the chair) closer to the other man's side of the table.
Once there he takes hold of Hades' hand and lifts it to his lips to gently kiss it.]
And I should be very cross with you for taking this long to finally come out with it.
[Should be. By the Star, he should be! How long had he spent wanting to have him like this? They could have been— The things they could have had. It's infuriating. Hades is infuriating.
He's utterly infuriating, and Hythlodaeus utterly adores him, through and through.]
Just kiss me, would you? Before I start to cry and embarrass us both.
[Hades watches him. For a moment he wonders if Hythlodaeus will leave. 'Tis a possibility he hasn't accounted for, but one he might understand. Instead, he finds Hythlodaeus moving his chair so they can sit within arms' reach of one another, his hand taken for what could well be the dozenth time. He's already lost count, beyond the fact that his touch is warm, gentle, and earnest.]
[It's enough to soothe even the hardest of hearts, he thinks - that sort of devotion.]
Such is your right. Though I daresay you have a most unusual way of showing it.
[Hythlodaeus doesn't seem cross. There are any number of reasons he could be, and yet he has been met only with compassion. A compassion he doesn't deserve, perhaps, but one he cannot help but yearn for.]
[Hades sighs, as if he's been holding his breath for the same span of time that he's kept this truth to himself. The backs of his fingers brush across Hythlodaeus's cheek softly, toying with the flyaway strands that curl over his ear.]
And what assurance do I have that you won't cry even if I do kiss you? But since you asked...
[He's aware enough of their surroundings. Hythlodaeus is close, his own back angled in such a way that there's little chance of most people seeing. And at the moment, a part of him isn't certain he cares. Let them see. Let them see just who - and what - he has longed for all these years.]
[He tilts Hythlodaeus's chin, his lips pressing to his. Chaste, but unhesitating.]
[There are several reasons why he isn't really cross at all, not least of which is the fact that he had all the time in the world to say something as well. He kept it to himself by choice, not wanting to create a potential issue between them, and only now does he seem to have enough bravery to say what he really wants.
Not too late, he would hope, and not too little.
The demand was born of impatience laced with his usual good humour. Hythlodaeus couldn't be sure what Emet-Selch's reaction might be - if he might refuse outright or politely defer the request until later - but he finds himself pleasantly surprised on all counts.
A soft touch to his cheek, the brushing back of his hair... he feels himself flush pink but doesn't dare move. He wouldn't dare even chance to give Hades cause to doubt. The tilt of his chin has him leaning in a little, eyes dipping shut and heart pounding in anticipation, and finally the moment he has desired for so long crystallises into reality.
Hythlodaeus slips a hand into the other man's hair, gripping gently against it as if to hold him in place as he presses softly into that kiss, lingering in it for as long as he possibly can. When they part his eyelashes are wet and he wipes them quickly with the heel of his hand.]
Ah-hah. I didn't cry. [He might, still. He looks elated and overwhelmed all at once.] You do know how to keep a man waiting... but as ever, you don't disappoint.
[He could understand being cross. He could even understand being cross at himself. It's both vexing and gratifying - the warmth of his friend leaning forward into him, the way his fingers wind into his hair - not quite pulling, but holding him captive all the same. The frustration of having yearned for this so long, culminating into this all too brief pinpoint in time - so soft, so bright it feels as though he has stepped out of reality entirely and then returned to find his world-weary heart beating once again. CLumsy and fumbling.]
[As if one taste could ever be enough.]
So you would claim when I have scarcely done anything - aside from wreck havoc on my own carefully laid plans.
[It's a mild complaint, and here he pauses, gently cupping Hythlodaeus's face. He looks as though he might let go at any moment - but he doesn't. Instead, he watches his friend, his expression lifting hopelessly - the mask slipping for just a moment into something far more tender and fond.]
[If Hythlodaeus were to claim that pulling away from that kiss had been easy it would have been the most blatant lie he had ever told, and all he has to give in the face of Emet-Selch's utterly dashed plans (no doubt incredibly carefully laid) is a ringing laugh. He can hardly be sorry, can he, with the way that things have turned out?
Then his brows raise a little, his heart skipping a beat with the way his old friend's expression softens and that ever-present mask lifts just enough for him to see the fondness behind it, and he lets out a quiet 'tch'.]
Welcome, am I..? [He doesn't recall that he thanked Hades for anything, but then again...
Hythlodaeus chuckles again, gently bumping their foreheads together for a moment.]
Oh, my dear, enigmatic love. [His heart is racing now. Maybe it had never stopped.] I'll allow some measure of gratitude that you finally found your nerve. [Another little bump, softer, before he leans in to murmur very quietly beside the other man's ear.]
But once we're finished here, I'm going to intimately acquaint you with everything you've been missing out on.
[His eyes softly glowing with mirth, he pulls back, and then pointedly steals a bite of Hades' pasta dish before he moves his chair back around the table. Then, in a completely normal tone as though he had not just blatantly - and in public, however quietly -propositioned Emet-Selch moments earlier, he adds;]
['You are,' he wants to insist, his brow furrowing slightly just before the contact - something solid and startlingly close, close enough that he finds himself staring directly into those lovely eyes.]
My "nerve". Is that why you believe I waited so long? Because I somehow lacked the confidence to tell you outright?
[His grousing, too, is cut short, having scarcely escaped him when he feels Hythlodaeus's warm breath tickling his ear, the words seeming to hum and vibrate inside his head. He feels the tips of his ears grow hot, even as he wills his expression to careful neutrality.]
[It certainly doesn't sound like a poor offer. In fact, he scarcely needs to think about it at all with the way even his soul itself seems to shiver in interest.]
[There and gone; Emet-Selch is left to cluck his tongue at his friend's antics, staring pointedly at his now slightly less robust plate of noodles before he turns his attention back to his impish companion.]
Difficult to say, given there is now some overlap between your plans and mine. Then again, they were more of a loose guideline from the first, and not without room for revision.
[A crisp snap - fingers hidden beneath the table as Hythlodaeus's plate materializes in front of Emet-Selch. The man trims off a generous helping of the quiche with the side of his fork, depositing the crumbly pastry into his mouth, and scoots it back across the table to him. Tit for tat...and all that. He chews slowly first, contemplative.]
Yet at what point do we determine that we're finished here? I had my heart set on dessert.
[Does he believe that to be the reason? No, not really. There are a myriad of other reasons why it has not been said out loud until now and none of them really matter anymore.
Hythlodaeus makes a quiet, almost dismayed sound when he hears that snap, sees his plate vanish in front of him, and then it's his turn to pout as Hades takes a (in his opinion, far too generous) sample of his own meal before returning it.
Rude. Though, endearing, all the same.]
Oh, I'm sure we can take our time, if you're not in a rush.
[He smiles again, impish.]
And by all means we can have dessert. I quite fancied the cheesecake, myself. [Oh, how easily he settles back into casual conversation after what he had suggested was on the cards for them later that evening. Not that it is easy by any means. Truth be told he'd like nothing more than to rush Hades home right this minute, but a little anticipation would surely make things sweeter later on.]
Besides, we need some time to decide whose sheets we're going to be ruining.
[A noncommittal hum follows from Emet-Selch's side of the table. While his patience is hardly whittled down to nothing, he wouldn't object to taking their dessert - and the remainder of their meal - back with them.]
[A heavy sigh follows, a shake of his head. It is with the same sort of casual nature that Emet-Selch rests his chin on the heel of his hand - the elbow now quite brazenly propped against the table, some few ilms to the left of his plate.]
Such uncouth language, and not an onze of shame to be seen.
[With his free hand, he returns to threading noodles through his fork.]
You may return home with me. While I could hardly have predicted the exact course of the evening, I might have acted upon a number of considerations...in the event of a positive outcome, that is. Besides, it will give you another opportunity to raid my wine cabinet for some celebratory spirits. Though that is perhaps best saved for later. Much later, I should think.
[Emet-Selch blinks across the table at him as if they are settling some far more official matter than this mutual proposition of theirs.]
[Not a single onze of shame, but did Hades really expect it of him? Certainly his attitude has grown more shameless since matters became clear (and his skin is still tingling with the memory of that kiss) but with everything heading in what seems to be the right direction he finds himself buoyed by it all.
He returns to his meal, cutting off a bite of the quiche with the side of his fork. It really is quite delicious. A fine choice.]
Mm, I do think I would rather have all my wits about me while we... [Well. He may be uncouth but he can still show some tact. His lips curve in another mischievous smile.
No need to finish that sentence. Emet-Selch knows exactly what he's implying.
He gives his fork a little wave.]
Ought else should certainly be discussed in private, I think. I have reached my limits for brazen audacity for the moment. [Much to his friend's relief, he's quite sure.] I'm sure your preparations for this most positive of outcomes have been suitably thorough.
[A short, if clear acknowledgment. Of course Emet-Selch knows what he's implying, as his thoughts had drifted in the very same direction. While he'll likely wish he had finished his plate, the pasta (tastefully prepared as it is), is starting to look far less appetizing than the man sitting across from him.]
[Emet-Selch studies the dish thoughtfully.]
I find I could get used to it - this brazen audacity of yours. Still, I'm inclined to agree. We've much ground to cover, and while one can only hope such talk is not nearly as exhaustive as your promised demonstration, I would prefer not to leave you with any unanswered questions tonight.
As for the preparations themselves, I am confident you will find them more than adequate.
[A wave of his hand as he meets that mischievous smile with one of his own.]
And if not, then I suppose we'll just have to improvise, won't we?
[Hythlodaeus is doing - he thinks - a very good job of acting like he's got all the patience in the world for this runaround. In truth, he would drag Emet-Selch out of the door by his shirt if he didn't think the man would immediately scold him quite severely for making a scene. Besides, the mischievous teasing is fun in its own way, and even more so when his companion actually responds to it in kind.
Well then. He didn't think Hades had it in him.]
I suppose we shall. I find myself quite looking forward to it.
[Understatement of the eon. Hythlodaeus' patience lasts through the rest of their meal but does not extend to dessert, which the two of them have boxed up to go before one of them ends up saying something far too out of turn for a public setting.
He's almost giddy with anticipation when they arrive back at Emet-Selch's door and he does not wait long after entering the house before he's setting the bag containing their boxed treats down by his feet and curling his slender fingers into the other man's collar. He catches his lip slightly between his teeth as he gives the fabric a light but meaningful tug.]
Hades.
[Hythlodaeus looks up at the man from under his eyelashes.]
Still hungry are we? And this after we've just spent the last bell dining together.
[The quip is unnecessary, truly. A force of habit to fill the silence left in the wake of Hythlodaeus's...demand. For what else can he call such a firm assertion, one which leaves no room for misinterpretation? Hades's eyes are nearly blinding in the dim light of his living area. Here, there is no one else around to see, no one else around to hear, and little need to keep up any manner of appearance - save perhaps for his own pride.]
[Pride which, at the moment, is nearly drowned out by the way his own blood quickens in his veins, by just what those words do to him - and how much.]
[Hades takes a step forward, his hand sliding up the back of Hythlodaeus's spine as he meets that gaze, as he leans down - the what? scarcely an ilm or two between them - to kiss him again properly. He doesn't quite give in to the tug, however. Perhaps he's testing his luck - or gauging Hythlodaeus's desperation.]
[Still, the time for waiting is over, and so Hades speaks frankly, his breath still warm against Hythlodaeus's mouth.]
Tell me how you want me.
We should at least set the stage for the rest of the evening, should we not?
[He is sure that Hades is still trying to tease him, and how cruel he is to do something like that, but Hythlodaeus decides to go along with it.
He's hardly so shy that he's going to falter now. That kiss is answered hungrily, leaned up into as he keeps his grip on the other man's collar, and he just about manages not to whine when Hades draws away from him.
'Tell me how you want me.', he says, and Hythlodaeus' brain locks down for a moment. How is he supposed to answer that question? He has so many fantasies he scarcely has the words to describe them.]
I want to undress you. [Hythlodaeus tells him after a few moments of thought. His hands trail down the other man's chest with idle slowness.] And take my time to explore every inch of your skin.
[He inhales. His breathing shakes.]
I want you to touch me until all I can think about is you. I don't want to have a single thought in my head save for your name. [A button slides open under his thumb. He looks up at Hades again, meeting his eyes.] I want you to take me and I don't want you to tease too much. Not this time. I want to be yours, Hades, in every way you would mark me as such.
[That same hand moves up again, sliding into Hades' hair, gently combing through it.]
And I want you to be mine. I want to carve my love for you into your skin until it aches. [He's almost whispering, his eyes soft but earnest, meaning every word.]
I want you to make love to me like you've waited twelve thousand years to do it.
[Hades scarcely knows what to do for a moment, met as he is with such earnest honesty. He should be used to it by now, perhaps, and yet it still surprises him - startles him - when he has gone so long without, spent so much time mourning the loss of a soft laugh and a gentle hand.]
[Honest answers beget honest answers. There's no place for grumbling or teasing here, no room for misunderstanding. Idas has laid his heart bare. How then can he respond with anything less?]
[Hades exhales slowly, as if all of the tension and bluster is being evicted. He doesn't so much move, and yet he presses forward, ever so slightly, into that touch, lifting an arm to wind his fingers around the hand now combing through his hair - but doesn't stop its trajectory.]
What other way is there, love? Doubt you the span of years, or the breadth of my affection? 'Tis the only way I would know how to please you, and yet I could not tell you what such a thing would look like even if you asked me to.
[Hades meets his eyes.]
I would have you laid out beneath me with your hair tumbling across the pillows, your face cast in shadow so that I might drown myself in the color of your eyes. I would have you over me, leant forward so I may watch your delight and your ecstasy.
You speak of the flesh, and yet it is an ephemeral, borrowed thing. Yet if I were to mark you, I would engrave my love upon your very soul, so that you would never again have reason to doubt.
[He plucks the hand gently from his hair, presses his lips to the back of Hythlodaeus's hand before pressing it between his own. His gaze drifts, briefly, towards the door of his bedroom suite - still slightly ajar, with a warm, inviting golden glow spilling through the cracks.]
So go on. Explore to your heart's content. And perhaps in so doing you will see fit to lead me into sweet delirium, or drive me to the edge of tears. Mayhaps both at the same time.
[Up until the very last moment, he isn't entirely certain of how his words will be received. He is certain that Hades won't mock him, no, nothing like that, but as for what he will say...
And of course it is beyond anything he could have hoped to hear. He listens, enraptured once again by the other man's voice, while he speaks his heart with such eloquence and openness as Hythlodaeus has never quite heard from his lips. His heart swells close to cracking with it, brimming with emotion, the hand so gently clasped subtly trembling between warm palms.
Hades' attention drifts and his own goes with it, the barest of glances cast over his shoulder to that doorway before he's drawn back to the other man's face again. He pulls Hades' hands against his chest where his heart beats frantic and solid against his ribs and his still-free one slips nimble fingers around the back of his companion's neck to draw him in for another deep, warm kiss.]
I love you. [He's teased it. Hinted it. Now he puts it into plain words.] With all my heart and soul. With every mote of my being.
[Then he smiles, lowering their hands between them and snagging Hades' fingers as he steps back. Steps towards that inviting open door.]
Come. [Hythlodaeus tilts his head as his expression turns coy and soft all at once.] Let me show by actions what can never be adequately expressed in words.
[He can feel it. The way his fingers tremor, the wild rhythm beneath the palms of his hands where Hythlodaeus left them to feel. So much fire and excitement... He senses, too, the way his aether swells in anticipation, proven yet again as he's drawn into an ardent, affectionate kiss. The sort one reads about in books but never quite expects to experience himself.]
[Had his limbs not just been arranged in such a way, Hades would surely pull him in deeper still, instigate some of the desires Hythlodaeus had laid out for him. And yet it seems this discussion isn't over just yet. Hythlodaeus may as well be speaking music in place of words.]
[Hades is left to stare a moment, his fingers shifting against the loose fabric of Hythlodaeus's shirt, his eyelids drooping half-closed as he allows the notes to sweep over him again before - at last - he chuckles quietly, a single syllable both deep and fond.] I can feel it.
How fortunate I was planning to give you mine own heart. Yours seems fit to jump right out of your chest.
[He allows himself to be led towards his own bedroom, strange as it is. 'And a little early for that,' he thinks. His lips quirk briefly, and then his usual seriousness returns. Hythlodaeus had said that he shouldn't tease him too much. Which means he's still allowed to indulge in their usual games just enough.]
I would not have said your choice of words were inadequate. Still, if you believe you can do better, I'm not about to deny you your performance - assuming there will be some opportunity for audience participation...?
Do mind the bed, however.
[Hythlodaeus will discover what he means as soon as they pass the threshold. The bed itself is an expansive affair with clawed legs that stick out a few ilms too far, yet well-appointed with a tasteful array of pillows and soft cotton sheets. The rest of the room is unlike the remainder of the apartment. The furniture here is distinctly Amaurotine in design - similar but not quite the same as those from Hades's flat back in Achora Heights. The glow which had been streaming through reveals itself in the form of an expansive picture window, but what should be the grounds at Satori Hills and the Epiphany skyline instead show glimpses of another city altogether with its familiar spires and orderly lanes lined with wisteria trees. The scene melds almost artfully with the pots of purple flowers and draping ivy that occupy the balcony outside. For a mercy, perhaps, there are no signs of people - either real or illusory - simply this rose-tinted backdrop from their past.]
[He lets his fingers slide from Hythlodaeus's grasp, shifting to wrap his arms loosely around his companion's waist as he draws him back in before he can drift too far ahead.]
[As far as Hythlodaeus is concerned, having been bereft of any form of physical contact - much less intimacy of a romantic sort - for twelve thousand years, he's being outrageously patient. He doesn't want to rush, he wants to savour every moment that he can, but his thoughts scatter the moment he lightly tugs Hades through that door and turns around.
And he knows this room. That view. His breath catches in his throat as he takes it all in with wide eyes.]
Oh...
[Caught in Hades' arms he stands transfixed, and just for a moment seems lost. Of course Hades would have something like this, sentimental as he is, but the most idle consideration had not prepared Hythlodaeus for the reality of seeing his home spread out before him.
He shakes it off, drawing his mind back to the present and the warm firmness of the body behind him. He tilts his head back against Emet-Selch's shoulder and presses a kiss against his cheek.]
You might have warned me. [Little more than a gentle reproach as he carefully turns in the other man's arms and drapes his own about his shoulders, playing with a lock of his pale hair.] How strange to be attired thus in such surroundings...
[They would have never. Hythlodaeus feels almost out of place in the light colours and layered fabric of his preferred clothing and he lightly toys with the collar of Hades' shirt as a smile returns to his expression.]
Yet there is no view so stunning as the one before me. [He says then, leaning in to brush a barely-there kiss to his lips.] Given the performance is mine, I trust you will be allowing me to lead..?
[Oh, how his eyes twinkle as he says that.]
Sit down for me, my love. Allow me the indulgence of taking care of you.
[He lets his hands wander idly without any particular plan or intention as he presses into Hythlodaeus's back while he takes in the sight. All innocent, mostly, though it's clear from the light pressure of his fingers that Hades is seeking out the form beneath the clothes rather than the texture of the fabric itself. Like this, he can breath in the subtle, sweet scent of his hair even if he can't see his expression from this angle.]
And ruin the surprise? [He murmurs next to his ear, laying a kiss along the back of his neck.] I did mention that I had made suitable preparations, I think. Consider it my attempt at setting a romantic ambiance.
[His hold upon him loosens as Hythlodaeus turns and settles again facing him, and this time when his arms slip around his waist, he squeezes ever so gently.]
And you needn't find it so strange. Express yourself as you see fit, Idas. After all, you won't be needing these for terribly much longer if my hunch is correct.
[His eyelids droop again, watching him, as Idas toys with the feathery down of his hair, the flecks in his eyes shifting and sparking of their own accord.]
['Allowing'! And oh, his natural reaction is to grumble and make it seem as though he doesn't want this just as much as Idas does. After all, how often has he ever agreed to anything without putting up some manner of fuss? The man sighs, scowling back at those mirthful eyes, even as his breast fairly flutters with anticipation and the same sort of eagerness Idas must surely feel himself.]
For now, maybe. But don't think I won't take up the reins again should you let your attention waver.
[Not that it will. Not with the way Idas continues to humor him with light touches and tiny token kisses so that he finds himself wishing for them with more and more regularity. Having said as much, Hades reluctantly releases the other man, sauntering over to sit on the edge of the bed as if it had been his idea from the start, his arms folded in his lap as he looks up at his would-be lover expectantly. Will-be lover, rather.]
[Hythlodaeus hums softly. He's putting up a good front - this is hardly his first time bedding someone - but the pit of his stomach flutters with nervous anticipation as he can only hope that after so long a wait his performance is not in any way a disappointment.
Hades sits, suddenly appearing so prim and proper that it makes Hythlodaeus giggle, and he moves over to the other man to cup his jawline with both hands. He leans down to kiss him, first light and then pressing in more deeply as he urges his soon-to-be lover up along the bed and then onto his back, where he leans over him and slides one knee up between his thighs.
Their surroundings only become all the more striking under such conditions. He could fool himself that they were home again, that he had not waited so long after all, that...
He sits up to shrug a layer off. His light jacket (not wanting to deprive Hades of undressing him in turn) before his fingers set to work sliding open each button of the other man's shirt. Once the fabric parts he presses a warm and lingering kiss to the centre of Hades' chest and lingers there a moment to listen to his heart beating.
Surely the most beautiful sound he has ever heard... Yet that opinion still has time to be amended tonight.
His lips quickly find Hades' again, all that warming passion in the kiss while he gently pins one of the man's hands just above his head and slowly, almost experimentally rolls his thigh down against Hades' groin.]
Will you tell me what you like? [He asks softly, barely parting from him for the words.] Or am I to be granted the pleasure of trying things until I find out?
[Would Hades even have the patience for that? Would Hythlodaeus? He can already feel his skin burning under his clothes.]
[In what way could such a thing ever be a disappointment? Emet-Selch has bedded individuals he liked well enough and those he has actively hated, them and so many others who found themselves in his bed out of necessity and not for pleasure at all. A hollow thing, all according to plan; all for the Ardor. But he has never made love to Hythlodaeus - to Idas - before, and in his private opinion that makes all the difference. Such activities then become new and exciting in the face of genuine emotion, and it certainly gives him a worthy incentive to not throw a wrench into it all.]
[He's starting to get used to this - the feel of fingers against his jaw, the taste of his friend's lips - more forceful and confident this time as he's corralled further up the bed and then pressed into the mattress as if he belongs there. And truly, it isn't the worst of places to be. Already he can feel the growing interest between his legs, the heat rising low in his stomach as Idas leans over him, that knee hovering oh-so-dangerously close.]
[It's almost a relief when his shirt is negotiated open, when cool air caresses his exposed skin just moments before Idas settles in close. There isn't much of note to look at, he thinks, other than the jagged lines of a pale white starburst that extends from the bottom of his pectoral muscles to just above his navel. It isn't a scar really, simply an impressionof one. And if Hades shivers slightly, it has nothing to do with that and everything to do with the warm breath ghosting over his chest and the way his heart thunders like a storm raging in the distance.]
[Hades snorts quietly, and for his part he's behaving - mostly, laid out upon the bed as he is, his one free arm propped up beneath him so that he's afforded some manner of participation in the proceedings (or at least a decent view). He flexes the hand pinned above his head with a grunt of annoyance, his effort to free it half-hearted at best, though certainly better than nothing.]
[What he does see to is that the interruption is brief, his mouth reclaiming Idas with a slowly mounting hunger the moment his question is finished. After all, Idas isn't the only one falling victim to the flames, and he is not about to simply lay down and twiddle his thumbs - not that he could do so in the first place.]
And ruin all the fun? [He huffs, the only indication that he's affected at all present in the color that slowly creeps along his ears and neck.] I can't imagine you'd be so quick to turn down the challenge, let alone a more hands-on approach.
[The hint is there, if he wishes it, and if that isn't enough, Hades shifts so that his back is flat against the sheets, freeing his arm to rest a hand against Hythlodaeus's leg, nudging it slightly to one side and exactly one ilm forward in case he'd like to keep trying.]
[Though he has confidence that this is what they both want, his certainty that he can do right by Hades - or be the kind of lover that he desires and perhaps expects - is not quite so strong. Still, that isn't going to stop him. Not when he has waited for so long to get himself into this position. He pushes those worries aside and focuses on their mutual enjoyment of this.]
You might soften your tone a fraction, you know. [He chides gently, fondly, as if he does not expect anything of the sort. Still, it might be nice if he did not have to pry it out of him.] Though you are right. I've been thinking about getting my hands on you all evening.
[Something that he had made entirely obvious in the words he had murmured so mischievously into Hades' ear.
He slides his leg that single ilm forwards along with that subtle, nudging direction, an amused smile on his face as he follows Hades' unspoken instruction. A sigh breathes out of him as he uses the new position to slowly roll down against the other man again, catching his mouth in another kiss as his fingertips trace the outline of the pale starbust mark on his chest.]
Trying things it is, then.
[Since he's going to be so stubborn about it. Hythlodaeus really shouldn't have expected anything else.
The rolling pressure of his thigh is replaced by his hand as he traces the shape of Hades' cock in his pants. His breathing shivers in excited anticipation. He doesn't want to rush but already feels that they are both wearing far, far too many clothes.]
But first... everything needs to come off. I trust you'll be obliging in that, at least?
[Hades presses, his gaze following Hythlodaeus as he readjusts his position, watching to see how he responds to his words, weighing his sighs and his smiles against the requests he's seen fit to utter aloud. Or the words he'd whispered to him earlier - perhaps that's why his ears still feel warm.]
Some would call it "experimentation", you know.
[Better, he thinks, as he affords his friend a little more room to work, as he buries his fingers in Hythlodaeus's hair, shivering in response to that feather-light touch and choosing to focus instead on the warmth of his mouth and the building need trapped beneath far too many layers of fabric. It isn't until Hythlodaeus decides to take matters into his own hands - quite literally, in fact - that Hades' breathing genuinely stutters, his hips jerking upwards in a way that is mostly restrained but also clearly unplanned.]
[Hythlodaeus will find him half-hard already. Stubborn as he is, there is promise beneath that touch even as Hades insists on maintaining much of his usually grouchy facade.]
[Even so, he can count the few times he's heard of a better suggestion than this.]
Whilst I do agree, surely some manner of negotiation is in order. Perhaps a fraction of the sweet-talking you so desire, in exchange for the use of my arm? Even now the wretched thing is falling asleep, and what will we do later if I've an honest need of it, hm?
[He attempts to waggle it, allowing his fingers to flop about in unison as if to illustrate his point. After a moment, and with a mild shrug, Hades appears to grow more serious, toying with the loose ends of Hythlodaeus's hair with his other - unhindered and yet free.]
"I want to undress you" was the first thing you said, after all. Meaning it's a crucial step in what we wish to accomplish tonight.
Oh, he likes that. He very much likes the way he feels Hades' body jolt under his hand, but he bites his lip and doesn't draw too much attention to it save to add another teasing roll of his palm.]
A little sweet talking for the use of an entire arm? That seems an entirely unbalanced trade. [Hythlodaeus smiles, mischievous, but Hades has a point. He did want very much to undress him and and he fully intends to follow through with that particular desire regardless of how sweetly the other man speaks to him.
With a puff of air that seems to speak of amused resignation, Hythlodaeus frees Hades' hand and pushes himself up, shifting position so he's lightly straddling the man's thighs. The brazenness of the position does give him cause to colour slightly but he's still smiling as traces a fingertip over Hades' pale chest, stroking it along the edge of the mark that spans down across his stomach.]
You are a lovely sight, you know. [He murmurs. There's something soft in it - warm and fond all at once - as his eyes shift over the image laid out before him. Hythlodaeus never really made a secret of the fact he found Hades to be handsome though all comments towards it were always made in some kind of jest, but he's sure he has never found the other to be quite so stunning as he looks right now.] But if you must know... no, not just this evening. Several other evenings as well, in fact. Mornings and afternoons, and the occasional night.
[No harm in fluffing his ego a little, is there.
Hythlodaeus' nimble fingers go to his belt, the button of his trousers, easily unbuckling and unbuttoning.]
I expect that the reality will be far more satisfying than anything my imagination might conjure up.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2024-05-14 07:33 pm (UTC)It could have been fun.
He's in the middle of a bite, listening to the other man speak and letting the sound of his voice roll over him, when he goes ahead and says that. It's just as well that Hythlodaeus had managed to swallow his mouthful because the way his breath catches in his throat would have surely had him choking.]
You-... [There is a single, slightly mortifying realisation in that moment. Though Hades has caught him by surprise several times already he has not said anything yet that has hit Hythlodaeus so squarely in the chest as this. He blinks rapidly then sets his fork down, pushing the heel of his hand lightly against the corner of his eye and giving a shaky laugh.] You have no idea what it does to me when you say things like that, do you?
[Or maybe he does. Hythlodaeus shakes his head.]
In all the time I spent in that strange dream... I still somehow noted your absence. I wondered, at times... if you knew how you might find me, but then I thought, no, if you knew, you would have come. [He picks his fork up again. Gives a small sniff as he pulls himself together.] But you should know, my dear Hades, that if you want me then I am yours. As I ever was.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-15 01:17 am (UTC)[And this the very least of what he could say. The dish has rather lost its flavor, Emet-Selch brushing the plate and silverware to one side so that he might lean over the table, his brows knit.]
[How strange it is...this feeling. How long since he last spoke with utter authenticity. Not the truth, for truth's sake, but putting his own thoughts and emotions to words.]
If you would perhaps be willing to describe it in excruciating detail, then I might be provided some inkling.
[He says. His expression appears complicated, a brief moment of brevity - a hopeful quirk of his lips, before his expression turns serious once more. Emet-Selch folds his hands together on the table in front of him, shoulders squared as he shakes his head - Hythlodaeus may wish to withhold the fork a moment longer.]
The time you spent within Lord Zodiark, you mean? Aye, I knew where I might find you. What I did not know was what state I might find you in, nor what would occur should I attempt to retrieve you, nor whether you would come, having already made your decision.
Nay. My efforts were instead devoted entirely to the Rejoining, that you and everyone else might find some semblance of home to return to; as was our promise. Needless to say, we never dreamed that such a reunion would be so long in coming - not in the beginning at least.
[Another pause, and then.]
Hardly the most romantic of admissions, I confess. A paltry offering for your candor. Yet you should know that I do want you. As ever I did.
...As never I said.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-15 10:25 pm (UTC)[The fork goes down again. A little more slowly this time, carefully placed against the edge of the quiche and its accompaniments. Hythlodaeus moves out of his chair, though it's only to shift himself (and the chair) closer to the other man's side of the table.
Once there he takes hold of Hades' hand and lifts it to his lips to gently kiss it.]
And I should be very cross with you for taking this long to finally come out with it.
[Should be. By the Star, he should be! How long had he spent wanting to have him like this? They could have been— The things they could have had. It's infuriating. Hades is infuriating.
He's utterly infuriating, and Hythlodaeus utterly adores him, through and through.]
Just kiss me, would you? Before I start to cry and embarrass us both.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-16 02:36 pm (UTC)[It's enough to soothe even the hardest of hearts, he thinks - that sort of devotion.]
Such is your right. Though I daresay you have a most unusual way of showing it.
[Hythlodaeus doesn't seem cross. There are any number of reasons he could be, and yet he has been met only with compassion. A compassion he doesn't deserve, perhaps, but one he cannot help but yearn for.]
[Hades sighs, as if he's been holding his breath for the same span of time that he's kept this truth to himself. The backs of his fingers brush across Hythlodaeus's cheek softly, toying with the flyaway strands that curl over his ear.]
And what assurance do I have that you won't cry even if I do kiss you? But since you asked...
[He's aware enough of their surroundings. Hythlodaeus is close, his own back angled in such a way that there's little chance of most people seeing. And at the moment, a part of him isn't certain he cares. Let them see. Let them see just who - and what - he has longed for all these years.]
[He tilts Hythlodaeus's chin, his lips pressing to his. Chaste, but unhesitating.]
no subject
Date: 2024-05-16 04:45 pm (UTC)Not too late, he would hope, and not too little.
The demand was born of impatience laced with his usual good humour. Hythlodaeus couldn't be sure what Emet-Selch's reaction might be - if he might refuse outright or politely defer the request until later - but he finds himself pleasantly surprised on all counts.
A soft touch to his cheek, the brushing back of his hair... he feels himself flush pink but doesn't dare move. He wouldn't dare even chance to give Hades cause to doubt. The tilt of his chin has him leaning in a little, eyes dipping shut and heart pounding in anticipation, and finally the moment he has desired for so long crystallises into reality.
Hythlodaeus slips a hand into the other man's hair, gripping gently against it as if to hold him in place as he presses softly into that kiss, lingering in it for as long as he possibly can. When they part his eyelashes are wet and he wipes them quickly with the heel of his hand.]
Ah-hah. I didn't cry. [He might, still. He looks elated and overwhelmed all at once.] You do know how to keep a man waiting... but as ever, you don't disappoint.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-22 06:24 pm (UTC)[As if one taste could ever be enough.]
So you would claim when I have scarcely done anything - aside from wreck havoc on my own carefully laid plans.
[It's a mild complaint, and here he pauses, gently cupping Hythlodaeus's face. He looks as though he might let go at any moment - but he doesn't. Instead, he watches his friend, his expression lifting hopelessly - the mask slipping for just a moment into something far more tender and fond.]
You're welcome, by the way.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-22 10:03 pm (UTC)Then his brows raise a little, his heart skipping a beat with the way his old friend's expression softens and that ever-present mask lifts just enough for him to see the fondness behind it, and he lets out a quiet 'tch'.]
Welcome, am I..? [He doesn't recall that he thanked Hades for anything, but then again...
Hythlodaeus chuckles again, gently bumping their foreheads together for a moment.]
Oh, my dear, enigmatic love. [His heart is racing now. Maybe it had never stopped.] I'll allow some measure of gratitude that you finally found your nerve. [Another little bump, softer, before he leans in to murmur very quietly beside the other man's ear.]
But once we're finished here, I'm going to intimately acquaint you with everything you've been missing out on.
[His eyes softly glowing with mirth, he pulls back, and then pointedly steals a bite of Hades' pasta dish before he moves his chair back around the table. Then, in a completely normal tone as though he had not just blatantly - and in public, however quietly -propositioned Emet-Selch moments earlier, he adds;]
Does that fit in well with your plans?
no subject
Date: 2024-05-23 05:48 pm (UTC)My "nerve". Is that why you believe I waited so long? Because I somehow lacked the confidence to tell you outright?
[His grousing, too, is cut short, having scarcely escaped him when he feels Hythlodaeus's warm breath tickling his ear, the words seeming to hum and vibrate inside his head. He feels the tips of his ears grow hot, even as he wills his expression to careful neutrality.]
[It certainly doesn't sound like a poor offer. In fact, he scarcely needs to think about it at all with the way even his soul itself seems to shiver in interest.]
[There and gone; Emet-Selch is left to cluck his tongue at his friend's antics, staring pointedly at his now slightly less robust plate of noodles before he turns his attention back to his impish companion.]
Difficult to say, given there is now some overlap between your plans and mine. Then again, they were more of a loose guideline from the first, and not without room for revision.
[A crisp snap - fingers hidden beneath the table as Hythlodaeus's plate materializes in front of Emet-Selch. The man trims off a generous helping of the quiche with the side of his fork, depositing the crumbly pastry into his mouth, and scoots it back across the table to him. Tit for tat...and all that. He chews slowly first, contemplative.]
Yet at what point do we determine that we're finished here? I had my heart set on dessert.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-23 08:18 pm (UTC)Hythlodaeus makes a quiet, almost dismayed sound when he hears that snap, sees his plate vanish in front of him, and then it's his turn to pout as Hades takes a (in his opinion, far too generous) sample of his own meal before returning it.
Rude. Though, endearing, all the same.]
Oh, I'm sure we can take our time, if you're not in a rush.
[He smiles again, impish.]
And by all means we can have dessert. I quite fancied the cheesecake, myself. [Oh, how easily he settles back into casual conversation after what he had suggested was on the cards for them later that evening. Not that it is easy by any means. Truth be told he'd like nothing more than to rush Hades home right this minute, but a little anticipation would surely make things sweeter later on.]
Besides, we need some time to decide whose sheets we're going to be ruining.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-24 02:40 am (UTC)[A heavy sigh follows, a shake of his head. It is with the same sort of casual nature that Emet-Selch rests his chin on the heel of his hand - the elbow now quite brazenly propped against the table, some few ilms to the left of his plate.]
Such uncouth language, and not an onze of shame to be seen.
[With his free hand, he returns to threading noodles through his fork.]
You may return home with me. While I could hardly have predicted the exact course of the evening, I might have acted upon a number of considerations...in the event of a positive outcome, that is. Besides, it will give you another opportunity to raid my wine cabinet for some celebratory spirits. Though that is perhaps best saved for later. Much later, I should think.
[Emet-Selch blinks across the table at him as if they are settling some far more official matter than this mutual proposition of theirs.]
Is there ought else which requires discussion?
no subject
Date: 2024-05-24 11:48 am (UTC)He returns to his meal, cutting off a bite of the quiche with the side of his fork. It really is quite delicious. A fine choice.]
Mm, I do think I would rather have all my wits about me while we... [Well. He may be uncouth but he can still show some tact. His lips curve in another mischievous smile.
No need to finish that sentence. Emet-Selch knows exactly what he's implying.
He gives his fork a little wave.]
Ought else should certainly be discussed in private, I think. I have reached my limits for brazen audacity for the moment. [Much to his friend's relief, he's quite sure.] I'm sure your preparations for this most positive of outcomes have been suitably thorough.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-28 06:57 pm (UTC)[A short, if clear acknowledgment. Of course Emet-Selch knows what he's implying, as his thoughts had drifted in the very same direction. While he'll likely wish he had finished his plate, the pasta (tastefully prepared as it is), is starting to look far less appetizing than the man sitting across from him.]
[Emet-Selch studies the dish thoughtfully.]
I find I could get used to it - this brazen audacity of yours. Still, I'm inclined to agree. We've much ground to cover, and while one can only hope such talk is not nearly as exhaustive as your promised demonstration, I would prefer not to leave you with any unanswered questions tonight.
As for the preparations themselves, I am confident you will find them more than adequate.
[A wave of his hand as he meets that mischievous smile with one of his own.]
And if not, then I suppose we'll just have to improvise, won't we?
no subject
Date: 2024-05-28 10:34 pm (UTC)Well then. He didn't think Hades had it in him.]
I suppose we shall. I find myself quite looking forward to it.
[Understatement of the eon. Hythlodaeus' patience lasts through the rest of their meal but does not extend to dessert, which the two of them have boxed up to go before one of them ends up saying something far too out of turn for a public setting.
He's almost giddy with anticipation when they arrive back at Emet-Selch's door and he does not wait long after entering the house before he's setting the bag containing their boxed treats down by his feet and curling his slender fingers into the other man's collar. He catches his lip slightly between his teeth as he gives the fabric a light but meaningful tug.]
Hades.
[Hythlodaeus looks up at the man from under his eyelashes.]
I have waited long enough.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-29 03:39 am (UTC)[The quip is unnecessary, truly. A force of habit to fill the silence left in the wake of Hythlodaeus's...demand. For what else can he call such a firm assertion, one which leaves no room for misinterpretation? Hades's eyes are nearly blinding in the dim light of his living area. Here, there is no one else around to see, no one else around to hear, and little need to keep up any manner of appearance - save perhaps for his own pride.]
[Pride which, at the moment, is nearly drowned out by the way his own blood quickens in his veins, by just what those words do to him - and how much.]
[Hades takes a step forward, his hand sliding up the back of Hythlodaeus's spine as he meets that gaze, as he leans down - the what? scarcely an ilm or two between them - to kiss him again properly. He doesn't quite give in to the tug, however. Perhaps he's testing his luck - or gauging Hythlodaeus's desperation.]
[Still, the time for waiting is over, and so Hades speaks frankly, his breath still warm against Hythlodaeus's mouth.]
Tell me how you want me.
We should at least set the stage for the rest of the evening, should we not?
no subject
Date: 2024-05-29 04:01 am (UTC)He's hardly so shy that he's going to falter now. That kiss is answered hungrily, leaned up into as he keeps his grip on the other man's collar, and he just about manages not to whine when Hades draws away from him.
'Tell me how you want me.', he says, and Hythlodaeus' brain locks down for a moment. How is he supposed to answer that question? He has so many fantasies he scarcely has the words to describe them.]
I want to undress you. [Hythlodaeus tells him after a few moments of thought. His hands trail down the other man's chest with idle slowness.] And take my time to explore every inch of your skin.
[He inhales. His breathing shakes.]
I want you to touch me until all I can think about is you. I don't want to have a single thought in my head save for your name. [A button slides open under his thumb. He looks up at Hades again, meeting his eyes.] I want you to take me and I don't want you to tease too much. Not this time. I want to be yours, Hades, in every way you would mark me as such.
[That same hand moves up again, sliding into Hades' hair, gently combing through it.]
And I want you to be mine. I want to carve my love for you into your skin until it aches. [He's almost whispering, his eyes soft but earnest, meaning every word.]
I want you to make love to me like you've waited twelve thousand years to do it.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-30 01:52 pm (UTC)[Honest answers beget honest answers. There's no place for grumbling or teasing here, no room for misunderstanding. Idas has laid his heart bare. How then can he respond with anything less?]
[Hades exhales slowly, as if all of the tension and bluster is being evicted. He doesn't so much move, and yet he presses forward, ever so slightly, into that touch, lifting an arm to wind his fingers around the hand now combing through his hair - but doesn't stop its trajectory.]
What other way is there, love? Doubt you the span of years, or the breadth of my affection? 'Tis the only way I would know how to please you, and yet I could not tell you what such a thing would look like even if you asked me to.
[Hades meets his eyes.]
I would have you laid out beneath me with your hair tumbling across the pillows, your face cast in shadow so that I might drown myself in the color of your eyes. I would have you over me, leant forward so I may watch your delight and your ecstasy.
You speak of the flesh, and yet it is an ephemeral, borrowed thing. Yet if I were to mark you, I would engrave my love upon your very soul, so that you would never again have reason to doubt.
[He plucks the hand gently from his hair, presses his lips to the back of Hythlodaeus's hand before pressing it between his own. His gaze drifts, briefly, towards the door of his bedroom suite - still slightly ajar, with a warm, inviting golden glow spilling through the cracks.]
So go on. Explore to your heart's content. And perhaps in so doing you will see fit to lead me into sweet delirium, or drive me to the edge of tears. Mayhaps both at the same time.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-30 08:13 pm (UTC)And of course it is beyond anything he could have hoped to hear. He listens, enraptured once again by the other man's voice, while he speaks his heart with such eloquence and openness as Hythlodaeus has never quite heard from his lips. His heart swells close to cracking with it, brimming with emotion, the hand so gently clasped subtly trembling between warm palms.
Hades' attention drifts and his own goes with it, the barest of glances cast over his shoulder to that doorway before he's drawn back to the other man's face again. He pulls Hades' hands against his chest where his heart beats frantic and solid against his ribs and his still-free one slips nimble fingers around the back of his companion's neck to draw him in for another deep, warm kiss.]
I love you. [He's teased it. Hinted it. Now he puts it into plain words.] With all my heart and soul. With every mote of my being.
[Then he smiles, lowering their hands between them and snagging Hades' fingers as he steps back. Steps towards that inviting open door.]
Come. [Hythlodaeus tilts his head as his expression turns coy and soft all at once.] Let me show by actions what can never be adequately expressed in words.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-31 02:23 am (UTC)[Had his limbs not just been arranged in such a way, Hades would surely pull him in deeper still, instigate some of the desires Hythlodaeus had laid out for him. And yet it seems this discussion isn't over just yet. Hythlodaeus may as well be speaking music in place of words.]
[Hades is left to stare a moment, his fingers shifting against the loose fabric of Hythlodaeus's shirt, his eyelids drooping half-closed as he allows the notes to sweep over him again before - at last - he chuckles quietly, a single syllable both deep and fond.] I can feel it.
How fortunate I was planning to give you mine own heart. Yours seems fit to jump right out of your chest.
[He allows himself to be led towards his own bedroom, strange as it is. 'And a little early for that,' he thinks. His lips quirk briefly, and then his usual seriousness returns. Hythlodaeus had said that he shouldn't tease him too much. Which means he's still allowed to indulge in their usual games just enough.]
I would not have said your choice of words were inadequate. Still, if you believe you can do better, I'm not about to deny you your performance - assuming there will be some opportunity for audience participation...?
Do mind the bed, however.
[Hythlodaeus will discover what he means as soon as they pass the threshold. The bed itself is an expansive affair with clawed legs that stick out a few ilms too far, yet well-appointed with a tasteful array of pillows and soft cotton sheets. The rest of the room is unlike the remainder of the apartment. The furniture here is distinctly Amaurotine in design - similar but not quite the same as those from Hades's flat back in Achora Heights. The glow which had been streaming through reveals itself in the form of an expansive picture window, but what should be the grounds at Satori Hills and the Epiphany skyline instead show glimpses of another city altogether with its familiar spires and orderly lanes lined with wisteria trees. The scene melds almost artfully with the pots of purple flowers and draping ivy that occupy the balcony outside. For a mercy, perhaps, there are no signs of people - either real or illusory - simply this rose-tinted backdrop from their past.]
[He lets his fingers slide from Hythlodaeus's grasp, shifting to wrap his arms loosely around his companion's waist as he draws him back in before he can drift too far ahead.]
no subject
Date: 2024-05-31 03:38 am (UTC)And he knows this room. That view. His breath catches in his throat as he takes it all in with wide eyes.]
Oh...
[Caught in Hades' arms he stands transfixed, and just for a moment seems lost. Of course Hades would have something like this, sentimental as he is, but the most idle consideration had not prepared Hythlodaeus for the reality of seeing his home spread out before him.
He shakes it off, drawing his mind back to the present and the warm firmness of the body behind him. He tilts his head back against Emet-Selch's shoulder and presses a kiss against his cheek.]
You might have warned me. [Little more than a gentle reproach as he carefully turns in the other man's arms and drapes his own about his shoulders, playing with a lock of his pale hair.] How strange to be attired thus in such surroundings...
[They would have never. Hythlodaeus feels almost out of place in the light colours and layered fabric of his preferred clothing and he lightly toys with the collar of Hades' shirt as a smile returns to his expression.]
Yet there is no view so stunning as the one before me. [He says then, leaning in to brush a barely-there kiss to his lips.] Given the performance is mine, I trust you will be allowing me to lead..?
[Oh, how his eyes twinkle as he says that.]
Sit down for me, my love. Allow me the indulgence of taking care of you.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-31 01:40 pm (UTC)And ruin the surprise? [He murmurs next to his ear, laying a kiss along the back of his neck.] I did mention that I had made suitable preparations, I think. Consider it my attempt at setting a romantic ambiance.
[His hold upon him loosens as Hythlodaeus turns and settles again facing him, and this time when his arms slip around his waist, he squeezes ever so gently.]
And you needn't find it so strange. Express yourself as you see fit, Idas. After all, you won't be needing these for terribly much longer if my hunch is correct.
[His eyelids droop again, watching him, as Idas toys with the feathery down of his hair, the flecks in his eyes shifting and sparking of their own accord.]
['Allowing'! And oh, his natural reaction is to grumble and make it seem as though he doesn't want this just as much as Idas does. After all, how often has he ever agreed to anything without putting up some manner of fuss? The man sighs, scowling back at those mirthful eyes, even as his breast fairly flutters with anticipation and the same sort of eagerness Idas must surely feel himself.]
For now, maybe. But don't think I won't take up the reins again should you let your attention waver.
[Not that it will. Not with the way Idas continues to humor him with light touches and tiny token kisses so that he finds himself wishing for them with more and more regularity. Having said as much, Hades reluctantly releases the other man, sauntering over to sit on the edge of the bed as if it had been his idea from the start, his arms folded in his lap as he looks up at his would-be lover expectantly. Will-be lover, rather.]
At your leisure.
no subject
Date: 2024-05-31 01:59 pm (UTC)Hades sits, suddenly appearing so prim and proper that it makes Hythlodaeus giggle, and he moves over to the other man to cup his jawline with both hands. He leans down to kiss him, first light and then pressing in more deeply as he urges his soon-to-be lover up along the bed and then onto his back, where he leans over him and slides one knee up between his thighs.
Their surroundings only become all the more striking under such conditions. He could fool himself that they were home again, that he had not waited so long after all, that...
He sits up to shrug a layer off. His light jacket (not wanting to deprive Hades of undressing him in turn) before his fingers set to work sliding open each button of the other man's shirt. Once the fabric parts he presses a warm and lingering kiss to the centre of Hades' chest and lingers there a moment to listen to his heart beating.
Surely the most beautiful sound he has ever heard... Yet that opinion still has time to be amended tonight.
His lips quickly find Hades' again, all that warming passion in the kiss while he gently pins one of the man's hands just above his head and slowly, almost experimentally rolls his thigh down against Hades' groin.]
Will you tell me what you like? [He asks softly, barely parting from him for the words.] Or am I to be granted the pleasure of trying things until I find out?
[Would Hades even have the patience for that? Would Hythlodaeus? He can already feel his skin burning under his clothes.]
no subject
Date: 2024-06-05 04:07 am (UTC)[He's starting to get used to this - the feel of fingers against his jaw, the taste of his friend's lips - more forceful and confident this time as he's corralled further up the bed and then pressed into the mattress as if he belongs there. And truly, it isn't the worst of places to be. Already he can feel the growing interest between his legs, the heat rising low in his stomach as Idas leans over him, that knee hovering oh-so-dangerously close.]
[It's almost a relief when his shirt is negotiated open, when cool air caresses his exposed skin just moments before Idas settles in close. There isn't much of note to look at, he thinks, other than the jagged lines of a pale white starburst that extends from the bottom of his pectoral muscles to just above his navel. It isn't a scar really, simply an impressionof one. And if Hades shivers slightly, it has nothing to do with that and everything to do with the warm breath ghosting over his chest and the way his heart thunders like a storm raging in the distance.]
[Hades snorts quietly, and for his part he's behaving - mostly, laid out upon the bed as he is, his one free arm propped up beneath him so that he's afforded some manner of participation in the proceedings (or at least a decent view). He flexes the hand pinned above his head with a grunt of annoyance, his effort to free it half-hearted at best, though certainly better than nothing.]
[What he does see to is that the interruption is brief, his mouth reclaiming Idas with a slowly mounting hunger the moment his question is finished. After all, Idas isn't the only one falling victim to the flames, and he is not about to simply lay down and twiddle his thumbs - not that he could do so in the first place.]
And ruin all the fun? [He huffs, the only indication that he's affected at all present in the color that slowly creeps along his ears and neck.] I can't imagine you'd be so quick to turn down the challenge, let alone a more hands-on approach.
[The hint is there, if he wishes it, and if that isn't enough, Hades shifts so that his back is flat against the sheets, freeing his arm to rest a hand against Hythlodaeus's leg, nudging it slightly to one side and exactly one ilm forward in case he'd like to keep trying.]
no subject
Date: 2024-06-06 10:21 pm (UTC)You might soften your tone a fraction, you know. [He chides gently, fondly, as if he does not expect anything of the sort. Still, it might be nice if he did not have to pry it out of him.] Though you are right. I've been thinking about getting my hands on you all evening.
[Something that he had made entirely obvious in the words he had murmured so mischievously into Hades' ear.
He slides his leg that single ilm forwards along with that subtle, nudging direction, an amused smile on his face as he follows Hades' unspoken instruction. A sigh breathes out of him as he uses the new position to slowly roll down against the other man again, catching his mouth in another kiss as his fingertips trace the outline of the pale starbust mark on his chest.]
Trying things it is, then.
[Since he's going to be so stubborn about it. Hythlodaeus really shouldn't have expected anything else.
The rolling pressure of his thigh is replaced by his hand as he traces the shape of Hades' cock in his pants. His breathing shivers in excited anticipation. He doesn't want to rush but already feels that they are both wearing far, far too many clothes.]
But first... everything needs to come off. I trust you'll be obliging in that, at least?
no subject
Date: 2024-06-11 03:03 am (UTC)[Hades presses, his gaze following Hythlodaeus as he readjusts his position, watching to see how he responds to his words, weighing his sighs and his smiles against the requests he's seen fit to utter aloud. Or the words he'd whispered to him earlier - perhaps that's why his ears still feel warm.]
Some would call it "experimentation", you know.
[Better, he thinks, as he affords his friend a little more room to work, as he buries his fingers in Hythlodaeus's hair, shivering in response to that feather-light touch and choosing to focus instead on the warmth of his mouth and the building need trapped beneath far too many layers of fabric. It isn't until Hythlodaeus decides to take matters into his own hands - quite literally, in fact - that Hades' breathing genuinely stutters, his hips jerking upwards in a way that is mostly restrained but also clearly unplanned.]
[Hythlodaeus will find him half-hard already. Stubborn as he is, there is promise beneath that touch even as Hades insists on maintaining much of his usually grouchy facade.]
[Even so, he can count the few times he's heard of a better suggestion than this.]
Whilst I do agree, surely some manner of negotiation is in order. Perhaps a fraction of the sweet-talking you so desire, in exchange for the use of my arm? Even now the wretched thing is falling asleep, and what will we do later if I've an honest need of it, hm?
[He attempts to waggle it, allowing his fingers to flop about in unison as if to illustrate his point. After a moment, and with a mild shrug, Hades appears to grow more serious, toying with the loose ends of Hythlodaeus's hair with his other - unhindered and yet free.]
"I want to undress you" was the first thing you said, after all. Meaning it's a crucial step in what we wish to accomplish tonight.
no subject
Date: 2024-06-11 10:51 am (UTC)Oh, he likes that. He very much likes the way he feels Hades' body jolt under his hand, but he bites his lip and doesn't draw too much attention to it save to add another teasing roll of his palm.]
A little sweet talking for the use of an entire arm? That seems an entirely unbalanced trade. [Hythlodaeus smiles, mischievous, but Hades has a point. He did want very much to undress him and and he fully intends to follow through with that particular desire regardless of how sweetly the other man speaks to him.
With a puff of air that seems to speak of amused resignation, Hythlodaeus frees Hades' hand and pushes himself up, shifting position so he's lightly straddling the man's thighs. The brazenness of the position does give him cause to colour slightly but he's still smiling as traces a fingertip over Hades' pale chest, stroking it along the edge of the mark that spans down across his stomach.]
You are a lovely sight, you know. [He murmurs. There's something soft in it - warm and fond all at once - as his eyes shift over the image laid out before him. Hythlodaeus never really made a secret of the fact he found Hades to be handsome though all comments towards it were always made in some kind of jest, but he's sure he has never found the other to be quite so stunning as he looks right now.] But if you must know... no, not just this evening. Several other evenings as well, in fact. Mornings and afternoons, and the occasional night.
[No harm in fluffing his ego a little, is there.
Hythlodaeus' nimble fingers go to his belt, the button of his trousers, easily unbuckling and unbuttoning.]
I expect that the reality will be far more satisfying than anything my imagination might conjure up.
(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From:(no subject)
From: