Oblivious | KuroKura AU

2. Clues

A gentle draught drifted around the corners of the tree, caressing Chrollo's pristine face. Despite not being exactly in a feather bed, his wounded body felt well resting between the deep roots and the hard bark of the tree.

Chrollo had slept in worse places, and for the first time in years, he was not alert to do so, he even didn't notice the external presence that was watching him silently. It wasn't until a twig snapped near him that he slowly began to open his eyes. The blurry sight of him focused on that golden hair seconds later. It was Kurapika, with a woven bag in his hands.

"Good morning, Kurapika…" he greeted hoarsely, slowly getting up.

The man realized that Kurapika was alone this time, thinking that perhaps the other boy was still sleeping in his bed, since the sun hadn't even risen yet. Maybe it was 5 AM, or it seems like due to the silver light that was barely glimpsed on the horizon.

"What are you doing here so early?"

The child gave a soft laugh, rocking on the toes and heels of his feet. He seemed cheerful and lively.

"Good Morning!"  he said, moving closer to the man and handing the bag over. "Well, I just wanted to see how you were doing, I was wondering if you could rest well despite your injuries. I brought you something to eat and drink. You must be hungry, aren't you?" 

Kurapika sat on a root next to him, peering at the bandage that covered that dark hair.  Chrollo noticed those eyes resting on him, but it wasn't too important, for now all his attention was kept on the bag that exuded heat and smell. Chrollo had to admit that it whetted his appetite.

Chrollo opened the bag: it was freshly prepared food, which surprised him.

 "Did you just do this for me?" His eyes lifted to meet Kurapika's. The boy smiled, gently closing his eyes.

"Yes, my mom helped me do it, I told her I was going to explore for a while and I needed food. Sure, it wasn't a lie, not completely."

Chrollo chuckled. It was incredible that a little boy lied with such impudence just because of a stranger.

"In other circumstances, I would admonish you for lying to your mother, but now I can only thank you. You are very kind. Thank you very much, Kurapika."

He took one of the warm steamed rolls that smelled amazing, and without thinking too much, took a bite. The sweet taste of hazelnuts and walnuts flooded his palate. A slight sound of pleasure vibrated in Chrollo's throat, it tasted wonderful.

Kurapika looked at him with a smile, he always felt fulfillment in doing the right thing.  The little Kurta might be very foolish and rapturous, but his soul was kind and he would never hesitate to help others. His mother taught him to never let people starve. 

Lucilfer shoved another bun into his mouth, too needy to eat. His temperance and his graceful gestures were already non-existent, noticeable in the mess at the corners of his lips and cheeks.  Silence reigned but it wasn't uncomfortable, although it was strange for Chrollo, who looked up at Kurapika out of curiosity due to his silence. 

"Hm? Is something wrong?" Chrollo asked, running his tongue between his lips.

Kurapika laughed. 

"You are a mess!"

And without consulting him, Kurapika slid the sleeve of his shirt over the corner of Chrollo's lips, gently wiping the remaining hazelnut on his skin. The child continued with Chrollo's face, he did it with gentle touches, carefully as he could. Kurapika's little fingers made contact with Chrollo's face, being so soft and warm. Chrollo stopped breathing for a split second.