Lay Your Pain on Me [ Xiao x Aether ]

Thoughts and Feelings

It was a quiet evening. The sun had just set, with the sunset painting the sky with red and pink hues. Wangshu Inn, like always, was basking in the last of the sun's rays. Upon the top floors of the inn, was a certain someone who was waiting for another's arrival.

It had been a few days since Xiao had seen Aether, he had gotten used to seeing the blond-haired boy dash through the fields. The thought of him makes Xiao smile. However, the smile quickly turns into a frown, as Xiao rubs his fingers against his temples. It was impossible for Xiao not to think of Aether every single second of the day. How could anyone not fall for his smile, when it feels like the sun? His golden locks flowing in the wind, the way he handles his sword so elegant and graceful, yet powerful...and his eyes. Xiao could never forget those deep amber eyes. They would soften whenever Xiao would comfort him, and shine with such ferocity to them, that he didn't know what to do...but to look away.

He wants.... But he can't. He knows he can't. He shouldn't. He's not allowed to fall for him. It would only hurt him.

He knows he can't have him. So he'll do anything to keep him safe. Away from himself.

Xiao gasps as he comes back from his thoughts, his karmic debt only intensifying the pain more. A throbbing headache creeps up from his head.

He groans, and settles down on the branch of the overhanging tree. He would just close his eyes for a bit, while he waited for Aether. A little nap wouldn't hurt...

----

Aether runs across the creaking bridge, his light footsteps sounding across the wooden planks. Paimon quickly fluttered behind him, warning about how late it was.

"Paimon told you it was late, but you didn't wanna listen! If Smiley Yanxiao has already closed up his kitchen, Paimon is going to starve to death!"

Aether couldn't stand Paimons rambling. He quickly treads up the stairs, reassuring Paimon that he would make her something if the kitchen closed. That seemed to quiet Paimon down quickly. As they made it to the reception desk, Verr Goldet greets them with a warm smile.

Aether greets her as she hands him his room key she sets aside for him when he comes to Wangshu inn. Aether is just about to head up when Paimon is nowhere to be seen. A faint glow and a few sparks of small constellations from the side of his vision catches his attention. He quickly glances into the kitchen and it's obvious where Paimon has occupied herself in. Aether decides to leave Paimon to enjoy her delicacies, as he heads up the stairs.

As he makes it up the final step, he's greeted by the blinding glare of the setting sun. His eyes begin to adjust though, and he sees a form on the tree. It's Xiao.

Aether draws closer to the sleeping Adeptus and stands by the balcony railing. He's never seen Xiao sleep before. As his curiosity peaks, he can't help but stare at his sleeping features. His eyeliner catches his eye, as it's more vibrant. He knows Xiao wears red eyeliner, but seeing it up close is more mesmerizing to him. Xiao's face is soft and at ease, as if floating through a gentle dream. From the breeze, a few strands of hair dangle on his face. Aether can't help but tuck his hair back, to keep him in his dreams a little longer.

A hand flies to grab Aether's wrist, inflicting sharp pain from the sudden grasp. Aether is met with Xiao's sharp yellow eyes, glinting with aggression. Like a wild lion, waiting to hunt its prey.

"X-Xiao. You're up..."

Xiao lets go of Aether's wrist at the sight of his discomfort, suddenly guilty of what he just did.

"Aether. How many times have I told you not to get close to me?"

"I just got here, and saw you were sleeping...I didn't mean to wake you.." Aether retorts softly.