What is this familiar feeling? [XIAOTHER]

Xiao's Birthday (Special Chapter)

Quick note: This story does not take place in the reincarnation AU and is not a part of the story.

"Xiao!!!"
Xiao heard the familiar voice of a certain traveler in his head.
"Xiaoo!!!"
Again, the voice ringing in his head. He sighed as he prepared himself for the future to come.
In a split second, Xiao had appeared in front of the blonde who had a big grin on his face.
"What seems to trouble you?"
Xiao had his weapon ready, prepared to battle.
"Happy birthday Xiao!"
Aether had held up a plate of Almond Tofu he was hiding behind his back. Xiao was taken aback. He didn't think he remembered such a "useless" day.
"Tra-.. Aether, I didn't think you would.. remember"
Xiao put his weapon away and seemed to be a bit flustered.
"I'm glad you remembered to use my name this time, haha!"
The last time they met Aether wanted Xiao to start using his name instead of "Traveler."
"Hm.. There really was no need for this."
Xiao closed his eyes and crossed his arms.
"Aww, come on Xiao! You've been alive and doing the same thing for thousands of years! I just wanted to celebrate another year I get to spend with you!"
Aether's smile seemed so bright. Brighter than the sun itself.
Xiao sighed as he took the plate of almond tofu. They both sat on a nearby bench. Xiao slowly and nervously took a bite of the Almond Tofu.
"..Sweet."
"Hm? Do you not like it sweet? Ah, I'm sorry! I wanted to make it extra special for you."
"It's fine, I don't mind."
Aether sighed in relief as Xiao continued to eat.
"Soo, I was thinking since it's your birthday.."
Aether paused as Xiao placed down the plate beside him.
"What if we spend the day with each other! I have a lot of things in mind."
Xiao was hesitant to agree at first, but eventually caved in.
"If it's with you, I'll try."
Aether let out a small chuckle. He grabbed Xiao's hand and began to drag him somewhere.

It has been a bit over 20 minutes and the two were still walking.
"Where are we going?"
"You'll see! It's very special yet secret."
Aether slightly stuck his tongue out as he continued to walk hand to hand with the other.
A few minutes later, the blonde had finally stopped.
"We're here!"
Xiao sighed in relief as he moved up to Aether to the point where they were shoulder to shoulder.
He looked down to see Xiao lanterns scattered around a nicely placed blanket on the ground.
"What is this?"
"Surprise!! I thought it would be a good idea to light lanterns with you since you never come to the lantern rite haha!"
Aether smiled brightly as he took Xiao's hand once more and dragged him to the blanket.
As they both sat down, they both looked towards the sunset. It was going to get dark soon.

They both made small chatter before it became completely dark. Aether grabbed a lantern from behind him and something to light it with.
"You ready Xiao?"
Xiao nodded slowly in response.
"Okay! 3..2..1!"
Aether quickly lit the lantern and released it in the sky.
"Now you try!"
Aether grabbed another lantern and handed it to Xiao. Xiao hesitantly took the lantern and slowly lit it. He brought his hands up and released up just like Aether did.
"See? Isn't it fun?"
"..yes"
Xiao stared at Aether as he continued to release lanterns in the night sky. He never noticed how beautiful he was. His bright blonde hair, his beautiful golden eyes, his soft pink lips.
Xiao realized what he was thinking and quickly turned away. Without Xiao noticing, Aether came closer to the Adepti. Xiao turned back. They both froze in their spots. Both face to face now, their eyes locked on each other.
"You're eyes.. are beautiful."
Xiao mumbled to himself as he slowly looked away, his cheeks a soft pink.
"Heh, you think so?"
Aether backed away and became red in the cheeks. He didn't intend to get so close to Xiao's face.

As they both looked up into the night sky, the light form the lanterns glowed bright. Xiao glanced at Aether, his eyes were fixated on the bright lanterns that now glided in the sky. He sighed, and moved closer to the blonde.
Aether turned to look at Xiao. Once again, their eyes met.
"Xiao.."
"Hm?"
"Thank you."
"For.. For what?"
"For spending today with me!"
Aether smiled. Xiao's cheeks once again became a light pink. He felt weird in his chest. Like a pain? But.. it felt good.
Xiao slowly got closer to Aether's face.
"Aether I.."
"Xiao?"
Their lips met. Aether's lips were as soft as the feeling of the morning sun. His tender touch made Xiao feel at ease. He quickly shut his eyes. Aether softly grabbed Xiao's hand, intertwining them together. Both shared a sweet, tender kiss.
As they both pulled away, both couldn't help but smile. They felt so happy, so peaceful.
"I'm glad I got to spend today with you, Aether."

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Authors note: helloo!! hoped you enjoyed this special chapter :)) I wanted to do a little something different for Xiao's birthday and thought: "what better way to celebrate it then to write!" I apologize for the wait on the continuation of the main story.. but don't worry! The main story will be updated soon! Hope you have a good day and good night!!

(thank you for all the love and support on this fanfic <33)