Courting

Chapter 34

Yeah, it's here. Sorry for the wait, I've just been getting on top of homework and handling trainings and gym and all my other spare time things. Also some personal stuff is going on with people and friends and such, so I'm doing my best. That makes it sound like I have big problems, they're not that bad I promise. Anyway, enjoy please.

(I took this chapter down and reuploaded it like twice so if you had any notifications or something that's why)

Neteyam woke reluctantly. Light reflecting off the water needled his eyelids as he struggled to keep them open, feeling like grains of sand were rubbing them whenever he did. Eventually, he opened them enough to see the source of warmth at his back originated from Ao'nung. The older boy had his forehead in between Neteyam's neck and shoulder, and an arm flung over Neteyam's waist, hand tucked between Neteyam and the floor. Rolling over gently, Neteyam rested his forehead against Ao'nung's. This movement opened Ao'nung's eyes, and he was immediately smiling, still in post-wakeup haze.

"Morning beautiful," was the first thing Ao'nung said. Neteyam didn't know he could blush that quickly, but the early-morning tone in Ao'nung's voice did it, along with the compliment.

"Morning Ao," was Neteyam's response. "Sorry, I can't think of a word to describe you."

"That's fine, your voice wrapped around my name is enough." Ao'nung closed his eyes again, breathing deeply. Neteyam snuggled closer to Ao'nung, shifting lower so his forehead was on his chest instead. This allowed his boyfriend to rest his chin on Neteyam's head, rest his arm over Neteyam's shoulder, and leg resting on Neteyam's waist. Ao'nung was curled around Neteyam in something of a protective position, and Neteyam found he enjoyed it.

"Ao?" Neteyam whispered.

"Yes, beautiful?" Ao'nung asked, and Neteyam could hear his smile.

"I have to go back, I have things to do today. It was what my parents said, I would have to be back in time-" But he stopped when Ao'nung pulled him even closer, nuzzling his nose into his hair.

"Do you have to though?" Ao'nung asked, clearly not planning on moving.

"Yes, Ao, or they won't let me out again at night for ages." Neteyam made himself shimmy loose of Ao'nung's grip, and felt immediately cold without Ao'nung holding him. The boy still lying on the ground was now rubbing his eyes.

"It really sucks I fell for the most righteous, rule following guy on this island." Ao'nung yawned.

"Have you forgotten I almost died breaking the rules?" Neteyam reminded him, hands now on his hips. Ao'nung looked at him, suddenly very awake, and stood up.

"Don't." He said, resting his own hands on top of Neteyam's where they were still on his waist.

"Don't? Don't what?" Neteyam asked, confused.

"Don't talk about that. Please." Ao'nung sounded truly heartbroken in that moment.

"I'm- I'm sorry, it was a joke, I didn't mean..." Neteyam suddenly dropped his hands and looked away. Ao'nung pulled him close once more, chin atop his head as Neteyam flattened his ear against his chest.

"It's okay, sorry I didn't mean to overreact," Ao'nung whispered, trailing his fingers down Neteyam's spine. "I just can't think about it; almost losing you, before you knew I loved you." Ao'nung's voice shook. Neteyam looked up at his boyfriend.

"But I know now, Ao, I know now." Neteyam told him, pressing a hand to Ao'nung's chest where his head had been.

"I hope so," Ao'nung replied, bringing his own hand to rest on Neteyam's once more. "I should annoy you more often." He grinned.