Guarded by waters [wriolette]

Chapter 9: You, Me, Together.

Notes:

Since I'm stuck at home with a cold and have nothing else to do besides playing video games and writing as I rest and ride it out, you guys at least get this next chapter pretty quick.
There's some ASL sign language used here, to the best of my research, descriptive abilities, and limited knowledge. I actually have to learn the signs properly for my work. Though the class I have to take doesn't start until June, I've been picking up bits and pieces in advance.

Thank you, everyone, for the well wishes and advice.
I hope you enjoy this chapter!

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Neuvillette's fingers are gentle as they correct Wriothesley's own in their position. In truth, both of them are clumsy with the movements described in the sign language manual. They're learning together, the best that they can.

Wriothesley pulls his hands away and shakes out his fingers with a soft huff. Unused to the new movements outlined in the book, just as Neuvillette is. The Omega hums, and catches Wriothesley's hands in his, and in a moment of boldness, he brings them up to his lips to press kisses to his Alpha's knuckles.

"I know, the motions feel strange to me too," Neuvillette admits, rubbing a thumb over Wriothesley's knuckles, "It will start to feel natural the more we practice. Perhaps we should stop for the night."

Wriothesley agrees with a yawn. After Aeris had left, the two of them had done little else but sit around together for a time. Neuvillette had grabbed a book to read and Wriothesley had merely cuddled in. This had resulted in Neuvillette petting through Wriothesley's hair while he read, which had for a time seemed to lull the Alpha into a nap. Neuvillette had joined him, albeit briefly, before he had to gently remove himself from Wriothesley's hold to make supper for them both.

They'd eaten, cleaned the dishes, and then retired once more to the sitting room to continue reading and generally basking in each other's presence. However, they both eventually decided to take an hour before they readied themselves for bed to practice some of the signs in the book. Neuvillette would consider that, while they are still not used to the movements, progress has been made. They both understand and know the signs to answer yes and no, among a few other basics.

They can practice more tomorrow, however, it is time to get ready for bed.

Wriothesley still doesn't have anything but that housecoat of his, so he's technically already dressed down for bed, but Neuvillette offers for him to have a bath first regardless. The Alpha takes his time to consider while nibbling his bottom lip for a second. Then he dips his head for a moment before he seems to steel himself, already putting some of the signs they've learned to use.

Wriothesley points to Neuvillette, then to himself, before putting two fists together.

"You, me, together."

Neuvillette flushes right to the very tips of his ears, "You wish to bathe with me?"

Wriothesley signs "Yes," while still nibbling on his bottom lip, his head nodding along. Wriothesley concentrates for a moment before he points to Neuvillette, fumbling for a second to remember the sign for the letter K. Bouncing one hand on top of the other when he manages, before he points to himself, "You take care of me."

Wriothesley then does the signs in reverse, smiling to himself when the motions flow a little better for him now that he's using them in conversation, " I take care of you ."

Neuvillette understands now. "I see. You only wish to care for me as I've been doing for you."

Wriothesley nods, and steps closer. His fingers find Neuvillette's hair, and run through the silky strands as gently as possible but pointedly to try and further show what he intends. Neuvillette hums as he considers Wriothesley's offer. It would be so wonderful to have help with his hair. Especially from his Chosen.