[Ignis relaxes just a tad bit more in his seat, satisfied with the results of the plan so far. He hopes Iris will feel better, too.
He's eying Gladio too, with a raised eyebrow.]
Good boy. [He just. Couldn't help to repeat that.
Though he does agree, he wonders as he takes a sip from his beer. Though he's always so busy that the only time Ignis realizes he may enjoy some time off is when he is actually having that time off. Slight problem when his life was basically his job.]
It's been a long time, yes. It's a bit sad that bully's responsible for this impromptu date even.
[He's just going to enjoy the sight of that raised eyebrow, the corner of his lip rising in a smirk.]
Yup. Feel free to ask anyone you want just how good.
[Ignis is a workaholic. He knows that well enough. But he has to be. They both have to be- on the days Gladio himself has got Noctis, he's exactly the same.
...At least he always returns the prince to his advisor beaten evenly on both sides. There's that at least. He flicks his eyes back to the man.]
So let's not let it happen again. One day a week, we'll have a date. Whether it's sitting out here, drinking and talking, or going out and doing something. You'll get the guest bedroom here, so you can drink as much as you want. Sound good?
[Ignis scoffs, checking the scene in front of them where the police seem to be thinking that the car won't be enough for a giant toddler, a pizza man and a mental patient. Wait, isn't there a joke like that?]
So you're the kiss and tell type, too, vanilla boy?
[He remarks amused before he would drink some.]
Once a week date. [Now that could be a little strained with his unpredictable schedule. Ignis looks over the entrance, as if he could see that offered room while he's thinking. It could be nice, maybe it would calm his mind too. And hanging with Gladiolus is actually something he likes to do, so.] Why not? I'll take you up on the offer, then.
[He smirks at the scoff, before taking another drink. Oh, now that was something. The homeowner took a swing for the diapered man, and hit the back of the cop's head.
...Well, that guy's day is about to get worse. Predictably, his face is introduced to his porch, and he's wrenched up. Just in time for a car to pull up asking about a free TV.]
Not if they're cute. Kind of difficult to see someone that's worth it again if everyone knows their business.
[His gaze moves away from the scene, to Ignis. Was that him admitting he started rumours to get certain people to leave him alone? ...Yes.]
Good. I'll text you places in the week. For the first week, you decide where we go, Second, I will. That'll stop it from getting boring.
[Under the peaking drama on the other side, Ignis hums quietly in approval. Both at Gladio and the addition to the scene.]
Smart.
Roger that. It's always a delight to deal with someone who knows what they want. [It is a delight, because god if Ignis isn't dealing with incompetent items all around his job. So even when it comes to scheduling something like this, it's just appreciated.]
[What can be said, he bores easily. And Ignis, in the years that Gladio's known him, has never been boring. The scene disperses quite quickly, considering, The pizza guy decides to simply take the loss of a metric fuckton of shitty pizzas, the cops end up dragging the homeowner and the diaper wearing guy into a car, and the Craigslist guy doesn't get his TV.
...relative peace once more. He narrows his eyes after the car, draining his beer.]
[This is the part where applause should due, but that may be bit distasteful. So Ignis just drinks some.]
Let's. We're going to hear if something picks up either way. [He remarks, and slowly stands from his seat, rubbing his neck, too.] Are you in a better mood?
[Admittedly, he's going to keep this up until someone dies or moves away- but he's not going to ponder on the task that remains of pinning this to the kid. He feels vaguely satisfied- the good level of satisfaction that only really comes before something goes way too far. It's just perfect.
He moves after Ignis, picking up the chairs and the icebox after them. He quirks a thick eyebrow at the other's action.]
Shit. You haven't even been home after seeing to Noct yet, have you?
[Ignis will cover all the tracks in case of death and/or something very wrong either way.
He just smiles amused at the question. He's been home, but only to make the pastries for Iris. He holds the door open for the other so he can bring the stuff inside.]
Only just a little. I came here as fast as I could to not miss the show.
[His eyebrows furrow, faintly, but he knows better than to lecture Ignis- a man that's seen, and probably cleaned up after, more fuckups today on other people's parts than what he'd personally been responsible for in his own life.
So. He enters his families house, grunting a small thanks for the door as he sets the chairs down in the hallway.
But even if he doesn't lecture...]
Alright. The shower's upstairs if you want it. I don't have anything that'll fit you to change into, but you can have one of my hoodies if you want. I won't tell anyone.
I'm also going to order takeout. There's some Galahdian place that opened up recently that delivers. You in?
[Ignis can't help the sigh that's leaving him. No lecture indeed, but he can guess where Gladio is coming from. But the thought of a shower is appealing. The hoodie? Not so much.]
You better, otherwise oversized toddlers would ring your bell too.
[He wonders about the takeout. And speaks before he could stop his babbling mouth.] I could also stir up something, if there's anything in the fridge.
[He smirks at that! The amusement plays in his eyes, briefly, as he considers the implications of his father answering the door to... that.]
Yeah? And what if I gave it a go and fell in love? We might have to cancel date night.
[He should not be asking that. Or insinuating that. And he knows it- so he merely gives Ignis a small, careful look, just to ensure he won't get tapped somewhere vital. Like a kidney. Or even worse, that Ignis might play along and cancel. Even jokingly.
...And he changes the subject.]
We got some things. And I'd never refuse your cooking. But you shouldn't look after me. You look after everyone already.
[Ignis does raise an eyebrow at the come back. It's amusing, actually. So he swallows his comment saying something along the lines of him being a great matchmaker then. For the sake of Gladio's sanity. He also doesn't want to compromise their new dating schedule either.]
'Everyone' also includes you, you know. [He points out, motioning toward the kitchen.] If you help me, it won't take longer than that take out.
[Good. Because date night is now set in stone. and he's actually looking forward to it. As Ignis points, his gaze follows- flicking to the kitchen and back.]
Mh. Yeah. Alright. You win.
[Faint guilt aside, Ignis' cooking was way better than some Galahdian stall delivery. He leads him through the living room to the kitchen. It's a large room, like the rest of the house. What can be said. Old family. Old house. Old money. And Ignis knew all of that. He moves right to an enormous refrigerator.]
We've got peppers, mushrooms, beansprouts, loads of stuff. Yeah, and chicken. You think it'd be best to toss the lot of it in a pan and fry it?
[Ignis smirks a little, because of course he wins. He always does. He's still in the mindset of work, so getting himself busy with something as cooking would either calm him or just... well, just keep up that mindset.
The house didn't exactly surprise him at first either. He would be living in a similar house too, if he wasn't renting an apartment near Noct's. He sometimes visits there too, his home.
He opens the fridge and checks what they have, listening to Gladio listing them.]
I don't see why not. Care to help me prepare the vegetables? I'll handle the meat. Would you like anything on the side?
[With that, he removes the entire bottom tray of vegetables from the fridge, deciding that he can just sort through the lot on the counter.
And yes, he's going to be as smooth as possible while moving his arms either side of Ignis to do just that. Would he notice if he smelled his hair too? Maybe? Maybe not?
...He does it anyway. Because damn, he smells good. And totally accidentally touches his chest to Ignis' back as he reaches. But then he retreats with his tray to the counter, opening a drawer to get a knife.]
I don't know. Think we can open up some noodles and throw those in too?
[Gladio, Ignis notices everything. It's a blessing and a curse. The thing is what he does upon noticing. He shouldn't let it happen, but then again he does. It's amusing. It's different, because if Ignis wants something, he takes it. He's sure it's the same in Gladio's case, and yet with each other it's a bit tricky.
He does smile to himself as he takes the meat. Going for the same drawer to get a knife, too.]
That would do, it could make it more filling. Although, we do have desserts. [He nods over the box of shortcakes he bought.]
[A lot tricky, yes. Because with Ignis, it's not really a matter of being worried about catching a knee, a foot, or an elbow should he piss him off. (Even if once or twice he has, and the other man's strength certainly isn't insignificant. He's as fast as a couerl, and just as painful.) Instead, it's a matter of feelings, and to be frank, Gladiolus often found himself caring- more so than what he'd cared for anyone, really- about how Ignis thought of him than much else.
... So this was what it was to be whipped. Anyone else, he'd do what the hell he wanted. This was different. Really different. The fact it didn't piss him off probably made him even more whipped.
He holds the draw open and steps aside, allowing Ignis to choose a knife suited for deboning and skinning meat first. Then he gets his own- working to chop up some peppers, mushrooms, onions, and all the rest actually pretty competently. He couldn't cut as finely or as quickly as Ignis- but he did a decent enough job. Kind of had to. He'd often cooked for Iris at the times their father had been away.]
Yeah?
[He asks, looking over.]
We should cook for Iris too then, even if she heats it up later. If she finds out any sweets you've made for her have been eaten, she's gonna be pissed otherwise.
[It can be handled when there are things to do. Work is sometimes a blessing after all, but when work is out, it get's difficult. It's not like Ignis can't handle the situation, it's just Gladio can still catch him by surprise, in various ways and can raise a reaction from him, while he wouldn't bother with anyone else. And yes, the amount of care Ignis puts into this man may slightly be beyond a professional level. But no one has to know that.
He takes the knife with the grace of a skilled assassin, starting on the meat. In no time they had the pieces for frying.]
I bought enough, she won't have to go without dessert either. As if I'd let you take her share.
[He cleans his part of the counter as he locates the spices and oils he'll need for the next step.]
Ha, I don't know who'd get the shot that'd kill me. Her or you. Hell- if neither of you got there, Dad'd finish me off for the sake of macronutrients that probably aren't in 'em.
[What could be said, gains were everything. But honestly, it'd be worth it. And whatever happened, little things like occasionally eating (non-optimal!) calorie surpluses like Ignis' sweets could be concealed. It wasn't as if it was a daily thing, like his efforts for Noct.
...And he felt like he wanted to make an effort, anyway. His baking didn't taste half bad.
He makes his way over to the other man, placing a container full of various chopped veggies his way. Just for his inspection. Just so he could ascertain, with his own eyes, that they weren't cut into pieces big enough to choke anyone. (Hopefully.) He moves aside to deal with the off-cuts, collecting them in his hands and dumping them in the bin, before cleaning his side. With a different cloth. (He knew that much.)
And. He lightly bumps shoulders with him as he returns.]
Anything else I can do to help? [Crack open a few cup noodles and pour them into a pot, maybe?]
See, it's a lost case. [Ignis remarks amused at the mental image of Iris going off on her big brother and would definitely win.
He checks the presented vegetables with an approving hum. They will do. Somehow it shows that it's Gladio who chopped them, Ignis wonders once again with a hint of a smile. God he's hating himself just a bit when he's doing this. Seeing Gladio in things. Just perfect.
As the man returns he looks up at him.]
I'll handle this from here, it'll take just a few minutes. Can I leave the noodles to you?
Mhm. Don't fuck with weird sparkly shortbread things that're meant for little girls. Even if you made 'em. Got it.
[He slopes off at the request, crouching down to retrieve one, two, three, no, four pots of the product placement love of his life, placing them on the counter as he moves to a tap intended for outputting boiling water.
The containers sit where they are, and he fills a pan about half-way with the steaming liquid before carrying it back. It's placed on the counter, and one by one, each lid of each container of processed, sodium-soaked goodness, is dumped in.
Each accompanying sachet of artificial colour and flavour is added shortly afterward, and he stirs the lot together. When he's done, he moves to Ignis while carrying it, his tone careful.]
Watch it. Hot water.
[Once that's placed safely on the stove, and put on a low heat to keep the temperature...
...He kind of sort of moves behind Ignis as he works, daring to slip an inked arm around his waist. lightly. So he can easily maneuver around it if he wanted. Lightly enough too to easily be passed off as an attempt to get into a drawer. For something or other.
...If he needed to. It would depend how Ignis reacted.]
[Ignis just watches as Gladio gets to work for a bit. As if to check if he needs help, but of course he doesn't. It's not that anyway. So Ignis also takes a pot and starts heating the oil, spicing it, then dumping the meat in it when it's ready.
And there is the 'light' touch on his waist. As if any touch or closeness of Gladio would be light to him. The man could just look into his general direction and Ignis would feel it more than punch in the gut.
He sighs and he actually moves into that touch, just 'lightly'.]
[Just lightly. Ever so lightly. The same way he lightly crosses his arms about the other's slender waist, and lightly lowers his head to inhale more of his lovely, lovely scent by shoving his head against the crook of his neck. What did the guy even use. He had no idea- but Six- it was addictive.]
Can't help it. You're even hotter when you cook.
I won't fuck you up. Or distract you. Promise. And look. If any oil spits up, it'll get me, not you.
[As if to illustrate his (terrible?) point, he's going to cross both huge, tattooed forearms over Ignis' chest. See?]
[The movement makes Ignis skip a few heartbeats that he actually lets go of a slight gasp. He shakes his head at himself for it.]
And you almost wanted to order take-out.
[He quips, but then can't help an amused snort. I won't fuck you up Gladio says, but how wrong he is. He'd already done that.
It's indeed a terrible point, worst ever. But once again something so Gladio, his huge arms on him, testing his limits once again. It just results in a 'can't help it then' sigh from Ignis as he continues to stir the meat. Then reaching to get the vegetables in the pot too. He has to busy his hands, immediately, otherwise he would trace a feather of a bird with his fingertips.]
Almost. I figured I'd grab you on the sofa later while we eat, but this is way better. I get to do this and grab you on the sofa later.
[The statement is accentuated with a touch of his lips to the side of his neck. It's not a proper kiss. Gods knew he wanted to, but there were limits. And Iris was around. Upstairs, but around. He keeps his arms right where they are though - before he raises his head to survey Ignis' task from right behind him.]
You never learned proper eating etiquette? No games during lunch.
[The way Ignis tenses up just for a part of a second at those lips near his neck should be barely recognizable. It's partly from want, and partly to prepare himself. Because if Gladio makes that move Ignis has to push him away. And to be honest, he's not ready for that. But there is no need for that, so he relaxes back into Gladio's hold.
So Ignis goes back to stirring the pot, finishing the dish up in just a few minutes. And, he doesn't have to turn his head and speak in a way where his lips would accidentally brush against Gladio's ear, he doesn't necessarily have to do that. But Ignis still does.]
On second thought, doesn't have to be while we eat. Might be later. When you least expect it and you're so full you can't run away.
[It's a (half) joke, but the thought of holding him again when eating is done is a very nice one. And totally one he'd happily do if he found Ignis leaning against him. There was no doubt in his mind that this was different- really different- from meeting someone, finding them hot, sleeping with them until he got bored, and moving on.
...He couldn't explain how. It just was.
Eventually, his arms loosen, Ignis' lips against his ear silencing all thoughts of complaining about releasing him he might have.]
Y-yeah. Of course.
[He slips his arms back and retreats as cooly as he can (not very) while raising a hand to brush at the shorter part of his hair. If Ignis looks closely, he might be blushing. A little. But when he comes back with three plates, he's mostly composed.]
Will you do Iris's first? I'll go upstairs and get her down. S'rude not seeing you to say thanks.
[As Gladio goes, Ignis sends him a look, just to check on something he rarely sees. Just to drink something else than beer that night. Though he then lets the man collect himself, Six knows Ignis may need a few moments on his own too.
He takes one plate to prepare it of Iris.]
Of course, but if she'd rather be alone don't force her, alright?
I say running. I mean kicking the shit out of me. The latter ain't rude. It's true.
[He moves to Ignis, lingering just long enough to take the plate from the counter. And! Despite himself, he inclines his head enough to press another touch of his lips to his temple.
...Totally worth getting smacked. If Ignis can reach him, because he's getting the fuck out of dodge.]
[And he does, that's the sad thing. Fuck. Why is it Ignis can make him feel like that? Anyone else and he wouldn't give a shit about what they thought.]
[In a way, Ignis' heart breaks at the apology. But they need to keep to some boundaries, otherwise... well, he isn't sure what would happen. Which is disturbing, because Ignis should always know what would happen. But throw Gladio at him like this and Ignis just... yeah.
His voice is gentle, almost apologetic too as he speaks again, placing a plate down the counter, to tend to the next one.]
Check on Iris please, so we can get to eating. You're hungry, aren't you?
[There's more that he wants to say. If anything, so the other doesn't think that he's pissed, or anything like that. Far more- but the idea of doing so is something he can't get behind. Because what, not five minutes ago he got the idea of doing something like that?
Yeah, he can't trust his ideas. So he'll pass on that.
He lets himself out of the kitchen, moving through the living area and up the stairs to check on his sister. And what would you know- when he knocks there's no answer. So he knocks again. And finally lets himself inside- only to see her sprawled across her bed, asleep. Must've been later than he thought.
It's the least he can do to nudge her awake enough to move her actually under the covers. So he's a little while. Just until she's dropped off again.
Finally, he comes down the stairs and re-joins the other.]
Didn't realize how late it was. She was flat out, so I put her to bed.
[In the meantime Ignis sets the dishes and puts them in a neat order on the counter. A generous amount is being prepared for Gladio to match his appetite.
When he's done he leans his hips against the counter with a sigh, checking his phone. It's late. Later than he thought. Well, that happens when he's spending time in the Amicitia household, isn't it? Worth it all. Even with Gladio being cheeky. Maybe it worth it because of that.
Damn it, Scientia, get a hold of yourself, he sighs, taking off his glasses to rub at his eyes a bit tired. He looks up though, as Gladio returns.]
Oh, of course. [He smiles, putting his glasses back on. Poor Iris, even with the revenge in motion, Ignis truly hopes nothing ever happens to her again that would make her feel this way.] She had a hard day after all, too.
[So Ignis turns to take some cutlery and offer them to Gladio.] It's the two of us then?
[It was considerate of Ignis to do that, with the portions. Gladio half wondered, sometimes, if the other man had already worked out what he should eat, shouldn't eat, and the amounts of which he had to intake for his training to work the best it could. He knew it for himself of course.
He'd more or less been on a strict regimen combined with his training since he'd become a teenager. So strict, in fact, that with anyone else he insisted on doing it himself rather than explain the ins and outs of what was enough to make most people just question why.
...But Ignis never had questioned why. Or ever needed it explained. Or even rose an eyebrow, really. It was like Ignis just knew- and as with all things, he didn't have to ask, he just did. And he never, ever got things wrong. Even something like this. Even should Gladio decide to check (which he wouldn't) he'd see that what sort of ratio of meat to plant to carb there was, he'd find it perfect.
But. Gratitude and how wonderful Ignis was aside. Iris.]
Yeah, just us. And yeah, she did. But she said sorry for being a brat. And she said the next time you're here, she'll make it upto you. Whatever that means. Maybe she'll take you on a date instead of me.
[A small, actually quite affectionate, smile. And as he starts to eat, leaning over the counter, playing with his food a little as he speaks.]
Hey. Sorry about before. I do things without thinking sometimes. Didn't mean to make you feel like I was rushing you, or anything like that. We'll do this at your speed, yeah?
[Ignis is always trying to keep Gladio's diet in mind, all the time. He also checks on with his father about it. He tries to tell himself it's out of consideration, taking that he has to take care of Noctis, which meant that everyone connected to him is also Ignis' responsibility. His shield, too. It's easy to stick to that.]
Oh my, I wonder what should I wear. [He smiles' too, thinking about Iris and how her presence always brings joy to him. Must be an Amicitia thing, he wonders.] I'm glad she sounds fine, however.
[Ignis takes his own cutlery and takes his plate to walk with it to the living room. Though he stops as Gladio talks.]
It's not what you make me feel. [He remarks quietly, maybe a bit serious. He's just telling the truth after all.] So you don't have to apologize to me.
[Perhaps it's Ignis' close relationship with Noctis that means that can be used as his excuse so readily. He's aware it's only slightly true. And of course, he's much more direct about things. Maybe it's the fact he wasn't as close to the prince? Close enough to get knifed in the face on his behalf, sure. But even that wasn't as close as Ignis was to him.
But whatever. Even if an excuse is needed, it's fine. Because it's Ignis, it's fine.]
Something hot. [For his benefit, of course. But If asked, he'd probably quip it would be to make her forget all about Noct.]
Yeah, she's strong. She told me she didn't deck that brat herself because she figured it'd bring shame on the lot of us.
[He follows Ignis, stopping too.]
Yeah. But, if it's anything else... I won't push you. I might need a smack every now and again, but yeah. You get it.
Now, that's a given. [Ignis assures. He knows his own worth, after all. It's also a default option when Gladio is around after all.] She has grown a lot, you must be proud of her.
[He actually smiles a little at what Gladio says. Again.]
I get it. And maybe, just like you need a smack, I need a push once in a while. [He sends a look at Gladio then, before goes to have a seat at the dining table.] I'll let you know when to truly say sorry to me.
[Damn right. To both of those things. He nods, unable to hide his own smile when he speaks of her.]
Yeah. Don't get me wrong, you still got to watch out for what she pulls sometimes. [Like having Noct's number, for one. That was devious. But she wouldn't call him. Not after he warned her off.] But she's really gonna be something when she grows up, Iggy. She's strong, and she's smart.
[And! He follows, taking a seat opposite the other. Before he eats, he listens. What Ignis says is always thought on. And even if he acts like he's brushing it off, he's not.]
Alright. If you let me know when I need to say sorry, I'll not try and run for it when I piss you off. Agreed?
[There are a few things that can make Gladio appear even hotter more appealing, and one of those things when he was talking about Iris. The way he smiles, the way his whole being just lights up, it's truly something magnificent, and something Ignis will always appreciates. It's partly the reason Ignis also swore to be there for Iris, no matter what.] A family trait, as I noticed.
[With a smile then, he looks down at his plate.]
Agreed. Also, find relief in the fact that even if you ran, I'd find you. [Smile.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
houseofscientia) wrote2019-01-27 02:05 pm
blkwings @ tfln
[Ignis relaxes just a tad bit more in his seat, satisfied with the results of the plan so far. He hopes Iris will feel better, too.
He's eying Gladio too, with a raised eyebrow.]
Good boy. [He just. Couldn't help to repeat that.
Though he does agree, he wonders as he takes a sip from his beer. Though he's always so busy that the only time Ignis realizes he may enjoy some time off is when he is actually having that time off. Slight problem when his life was basically his job.]
It's been a long time, yes. It's a bit sad that bully's responsible for this impromptu date even.
♥
Yup. Feel free to ask anyone you want just how good.
[Ignis is a workaholic. He knows that well enough. But he has to be. They both have to be- on the days Gladio himself has got Noctis, he's exactly the same.
...At least he always returns the prince to his advisor beaten evenly on both sides. There's that at least. He flicks his eyes back to the man.]
So let's not let it happen again. One day a week, we'll have a date. Whether it's sitting out here, drinking and talking, or going out and doing something. You'll get the guest bedroom here, so you can drink as much as you want. Sound good?
no subject
So you're the kiss and tell type, too, vanilla boy?
[He remarks amused before he would drink some.]
Once a week date. [Now that could be a little strained with his unpredictable schedule. Ignis looks over the entrance, as if he could see that offered room while he's thinking. It could be nice, maybe it would calm his mind too. And hanging with Gladiolus is actually something he likes to do, so.] Why not? I'll take you up on the offer, then.
no subject
...Well, that guy's day is about to get worse. Predictably, his face is introduced to his porch, and he's wrenched up. Just in time for a car to pull up asking about a free TV.]
Not if they're cute. Kind of difficult to see someone that's worth it again if everyone knows their business.
[His gaze moves away from the scene, to Ignis. Was that him admitting he started rumours to get certain people to leave him alone? ...Yes.]
Good. I'll text you places in the week. For the first week, you decide where we go, Second, I will. That'll stop it from getting boring.
no subject
Smart.
Roger that. It's always a delight to deal with someone who knows what they want. [It is a delight, because god if Ignis isn't dealing with incompetent items all around his job. So even when it comes to scheduling something like this, it's just appreciated.]
no subject
[What can be said, he bores easily. And Ignis, in the years that Gladio's known him, has never been boring. The scene disperses quite quickly, considering, The pizza guy decides to simply take the loss of a metric fuckton of shitty pizzas, the cops end up dragging the homeowner and the diaper wearing guy into a car, and the Craigslist guy doesn't get his TV.
...relative peace once more. He narrows his eyes after the car, draining his beer.]
That's day one done. You want to go inside?
no subject
Let's. We're going to hear if something picks up either way. [He remarks, and slowly stands from his seat, rubbing his neck, too.] Are you in a better mood?
no subject
[Admittedly, he's going to keep this up until someone dies or moves away- but he's not going to ponder on the task that remains of pinning this to the kid. He feels vaguely satisfied- the good level of satisfaction that only really comes before something goes way too far. It's just perfect.
He moves after Ignis, picking up the chairs and the icebox after them. He quirks a thick eyebrow at the other's action.]
Shit. You haven't even been home after seeing to Noct yet, have you?
no subject
He just smiles amused at the question. He's been home, but only to make the pastries for Iris. He holds the door open for the other so he can bring the stuff inside.]
Only just a little. I came here as fast as I could to not miss the show.
no subject
So. He enters his families house, grunting a small thanks for the door as he sets the chairs down in the hallway.
But even if he doesn't lecture...]
Alright. The shower's upstairs if you want it. I don't have anything that'll fit you to change into, but you can have one of my hoodies if you want. I won't tell anyone.
I'm also going to order takeout. There's some Galahdian place that opened up recently that delivers. You in?
no subject
You better, otherwise oversized toddlers would ring your bell too.
[He wonders about the takeout. And speaks before he could stop his babbling mouth.] I could also stir up something, if there's anything in the fridge.
no subject
Yeah? And what if I gave it a go and fell in love? We might have to cancel date night.
[He should not be asking that. Or insinuating that. And he knows it- so he merely gives Ignis a small, careful look, just to ensure he won't get tapped somewhere vital. Like a kidney. Or even worse, that Ignis might play along and cancel. Even jokingly.
...And he changes the subject.]
We got some things. And I'd never refuse your cooking. But you shouldn't look after me. You look after everyone already.
no subject
'Everyone' also includes you, you know. [He points out, motioning toward the kitchen.] If you help me, it won't take longer than that take out.
no subject
and he's actually looking forward to it.As Ignis points, his gaze follows- flicking to the kitchen and back.]Mh. Yeah. Alright. You win.
[Faint guilt aside, Ignis' cooking was way better than some Galahdian stall delivery. He leads him through the living room to the kitchen. It's a large room, like the rest of the house. What can be said. Old family. Old house. Old money. And Ignis knew all of that. He moves right to an enormous refrigerator.]
We've got peppers, mushrooms, beansprouts, loads of stuff. Yeah, and chicken. You think it'd be best to toss the lot of it in a pan and fry it?
[Seemed simple enough.]
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The house didn't exactly surprise him at first either. He would be living in a similar house too, if he wasn't renting an apartment near Noct's. He sometimes visits there too, his home.
He opens the fridge and checks what they have, listening to Gladio listing them.]
I don't see why not. Care to help me prepare the vegetables? I'll handle the meat. Would you like anything on the side?
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[With that, he removes the entire bottom tray of vegetables from the fridge, deciding that he can just sort through the lot on the counter.
And yes, he's going to be as smooth as possible while moving his arms either side of Ignis to do just that. Would he notice if he smelled his hair too? Maybe? Maybe not?
...He does it anyway. Because damn, he smells good. And totally accidentally touches his chest to Ignis' back as he reaches. But then he retreats with his tray to the counter, opening a drawer to get a knife.]
I don't know. Think we can open up some noodles and throw those in too?
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He does smile to himself as he takes the meat. Going for the same drawer to get a knife, too.]
That would do, it could make it more filling. Although, we do have desserts. [He nods over the box of shortcakes he bought.]
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... So this was what it was to be whipped. Anyone else, he'd do what the hell he wanted. This was different. Really different. The fact it didn't piss him off probably made him even more whipped.
He holds the draw open and steps aside, allowing Ignis to choose a knife suited for deboning and skinning meat first. Then he gets his own- working to chop up some peppers, mushrooms, onions, and all the rest actually pretty competently. He couldn't cut as finely or as quickly as Ignis- but he did a decent enough job. Kind of had to. He'd often cooked for Iris at the times their father had been away.]
Yeah?
[He asks, looking over.]
We should cook for Iris too then, even if she heats it up later. If she finds out any sweets you've made for her have been eaten, she's gonna be pissed otherwise.
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He takes the knife with the grace of a skilled assassin, starting on the meat. In no time they had the pieces for frying.]
I bought enough, she won't have to go without dessert either. As if I'd let you take her share.
[He cleans his part of the counter as he locates the spices and oils he'll need for the next step.]
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[What could be said, gains were everything. But honestly, it'd be worth it. And whatever happened, little things like occasionally eating (non-optimal!) calorie surpluses like Ignis' sweets could be concealed. It wasn't as if it was a daily thing, like his efforts for Noct.
...And he felt like he wanted to make an effort, anyway. His baking didn't taste half bad.
He makes his way over to the other man, placing a container full of various chopped veggies his way. Just for his inspection. Just so he could ascertain, with his own eyes, that they weren't cut into pieces big enough to choke anyone. (Hopefully.) He moves aside to deal with the off-cuts, collecting them in his hands and dumping them in the bin, before cleaning his side. With a different cloth. (He knew that much.)
And. He lightly bumps shoulders with him as he returns.]
Anything else I can do to help? [Crack open a few cup noodles and pour them into a pot, maybe?]
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He checks the presented vegetables with an approving hum. They will do. Somehow it shows that it's Gladio who chopped them, Ignis wonders once again with a hint of a smile. God he's hating himself just a bit when he's doing this. Seeing Gladio in things. Just perfect.
As the man returns he looks up at him.]
I'll handle this from here, it'll take just a few minutes. Can I leave the noodles to you?
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[He slopes off at the request, crouching down to retrieve one, two, three, no, four pots of the
product placementlove of his life, placing them on the counter as he moves to a tap intended for outputting boiling water.The containers sit where they are, and he fills a pan about half-way with the steaming liquid before carrying it back. It's placed on the counter, and one by one, each lid of each container of processed, sodium-soaked goodness, is dumped in.
Each accompanying sachet of artificial colour and flavour is added shortly afterward, and he stirs the lot together. When he's done, he moves to Ignis while carrying it, his tone careful.]
Watch it. Hot water.
[Once that's placed safely on the stove, and put on a low heat to keep the temperature...
...He kind of sort of moves behind Ignis as he works, daring to slip an inked arm around his waist. lightly. So he can easily maneuver around it if he wanted. Lightly enough too to easily be passed off as an attempt to get into a drawer. For something or other.
...If he needed to. It would depend how Ignis reacted.]
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And there is the 'light' touch on his waist. As if any touch or closeness of Gladio would be light to him. The man could just look into his general direction and Ignis would feel it more than punch in the gut.
He sighs and he actually moves into that touch, just 'lightly'.]
Aren't you getting cheeky tonight?
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Can't help it. You're even hotter when you cook.
I won't fuck you up. Or distract you. Promise. And look. If any oil spits up, it'll get me, not you.
[As if to illustrate his (terrible?) point, he's going to cross both huge, tattooed forearms over Ignis' chest. See?]
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And you almost wanted to order take-out.
[He quips, but then can't help an amused snort. I won't fuck you up Gladio says, but how wrong he is. He'd already done that.
It's indeed a terrible point, worst ever. But once again something so Gladio, his huge arms on him, testing his limits once again. It just results in a 'can't help it then' sigh from Ignis as he continues to stir the meat. Then reaching to get the vegetables in the pot too. He has to busy his hands, immediately, otherwise he would trace a feather of a bird with his fingertips.]
As if I'd cook that messy.
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[The statement is accentuated with a touch of his lips to the side of his neck. It's not a proper kiss. Gods knew he wanted to, but there were limits. And Iris was around. Upstairs, but around. He keeps his arms right where they are though - before he raises his head to survey Ignis' task from right behind him.]
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[The way Ignis tenses up just for a part of a second at those lips near his neck should be barely recognizable. It's partly from want, and partly to prepare himself. Because if Gladio makes that move Ignis has to push him away. And to be honest, he's not ready for that. But there is no need for that, so he relaxes back into Gladio's hold.
So Ignis goes back to stirring the pot, finishing the dish up in just a few minutes. And, he doesn't have to turn his head and speak in a way where his lips would accidentally brush against Gladio's ear, he doesn't necessarily have to do that. But Ignis still does.]
Can you get some plates, then?
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[It's a (half) joke, but the thought of holding him again when eating is done is a very nice one. And totally one he'd happily do if he found Ignis leaning against him. There was no doubt in his mind that this was different- really different- from meeting someone, finding them hot, sleeping with them until he got bored, and moving on.
...He couldn't explain how. It just was.
Eventually, his arms loosen, Ignis' lips against his ear silencing all thoughts of complaining about releasing him he might have.]
Y-yeah. Of course.
[He slips his arms back and retreats as cooly as he can (not very) while raising a hand to brush at the shorter part of his hair. If Ignis looks closely, he might be blushing. A little. But when he comes back with three plates, he's mostly composed.]
Will you do Iris's first? I'll go upstairs and get her down. S'rude not seeing you to say thanks.
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[As Gladio goes, Ignis sends him a look, just to check on something he rarely sees. Just to drink something else than beer that night. Though he then lets the man collect himself, Six knows Ignis may need a few moments on his own too.
He takes one plate to prepare it of Iris.]
Of course, but if she'd rather be alone don't force her, alright?
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[He moves to Ignis, lingering just long enough to take the plate from the counter. And! Despite himself, he inclines his head enough to press another touch of his lips to his temple.
...Totally worth getting smacked. If Ignis can reach him, because he's getting the fuck out of dodge.]
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Gladio may be out of reach, but that doesn't mean Ignis can't send a look and a warning at him.]
Gladiolus. Please.
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[And he does, that's the sad thing. Fuck. Why is it Ignis can make him feel like that? Anyone else and he wouldn't give a shit about what they thought.]
Sorry, Iggy.
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His voice is gentle, almost apologetic too as he speaks again, placing a plate down the counter, to tend to the next one.]
Check on Iris please, so we can get to eating. You're hungry, aren't you?
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[There's more that he wants to say. If anything, so the other doesn't think that he's pissed, or anything like that. Far more- but the idea of doing so is something he can't get behind. Because what, not five minutes ago he got the idea of doing something like that?
Yeah, he can't trust his ideas. So he'll pass on that.
He lets himself out of the kitchen, moving through the living area and up the stairs to check on his sister. And what would you know- when he knocks there's no answer. So he knocks again. And finally lets himself inside- only to see her sprawled across her bed, asleep. Must've been later than he thought.
It's the least he can do to nudge her awake enough to move her actually under the covers. So he's a little while. Just until she's dropped off again.
Finally, he comes down the stairs and re-joins the other.]
Didn't realize how late it was. She was flat out, so I put her to bed.
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When he's done he leans his hips against the counter with a sigh, checking his phone. It's late. Later than he thought. Well, that happens when he's spending time in the Amicitia household, isn't it? Worth it all. Even with Gladio being cheeky. Maybe it worth it because of that.
Damn it, Scientia, get a hold of yourself, he sighs, taking off his glasses to rub at his eyes a bit tired. He looks up though, as Gladio returns.]
Oh, of course. [He smiles, putting his glasses back on. Poor Iris, even with the revenge in motion, Ignis truly hopes nothing ever happens to her again that would make her feel this way.] She had a hard day after all, too.
[So Ignis turns to take some cutlery and offer them to Gladio.] It's the two of us then?
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He'd more or less been on a strict regimen combined with his training since he'd become a teenager. So strict, in fact, that with anyone else he insisted on doing it himself rather than explain the ins and outs of what was enough to make most people just question why.
...But Ignis never had questioned why. Or ever needed it explained. Or even rose an eyebrow, really. It was like Ignis just knew- and as with all things, he didn't have to ask, he just did. And he never, ever got things wrong. Even something like this. Even should Gladio decide to check (which he wouldn't) he'd see that what sort of ratio of meat to plant to carb there was, he'd find it perfect.
But. Gratitude
and how wonderful Ignis wasaside. Iris.]Yeah, just us. And yeah, she did. But she said sorry for being a brat. And she said the next time you're here, she'll make it upto you. Whatever that means. Maybe she'll take you on a date instead of me.
[A small, actually quite affectionate, smile. And as he starts to eat, leaning over the counter, playing with his food a little as he speaks.]
Hey. Sorry about before. I do things without thinking sometimes. Didn't mean to make you feel like I was rushing you, or anything like that. We'll do this at your speed, yeah?
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Oh my, I wonder what should I wear. [He smiles' too, thinking about Iris and how her presence always brings joy to him. Must be an Amicitia thing, he wonders.] I'm glad she sounds fine, however.
[Ignis takes his own cutlery and takes his plate to walk with it to the living room. Though he stops as Gladio talks.]
It's not what you make me feel. [He remarks quietly, maybe a bit serious. He's just telling the truth after all.] So you don't have to apologize to me.
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But whatever. Even if an excuse is needed, it's fine. Because it's Ignis, it's fine.]
Something hot. [For his benefit, of course. But If asked, he'd probably quip it would be to make her forget all about Noct.]
Yeah, she's strong. She told me she didn't deck that brat herself because she figured it'd bring shame on the lot of us.
[He follows Ignis, stopping too.]
Yeah. But, if it's anything else... I won't push you. I might need a smack every now and again, but yeah. You get it.
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[He actually smiles a little at what Gladio says. Again.]
I get it. And maybe, just like you need a smack, I need a push once in a while. [He sends a look at Gladio then, before goes to have a seat at the dining table.] I'll let you know when to truly say sorry to me.
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Yeah. Don't get me wrong, you still got to watch out for what she pulls sometimes. [Like having Noct's number, for one. That was devious. But she wouldn't call him. Not after he warned her off.] But she's really gonna be something when she grows up, Iggy. She's strong, and she's smart.
[And! He follows, taking a seat opposite the other. Before he eats, he listens. What Ignis says is always thought on. And even if he acts like he's brushing it off, he's not.]
Alright. If you let me know when I need to say sorry, I'll not try and run for it when I piss you off. Agreed?
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hottermore appealing, and one of those things when he was talking about Iris. The way he smiles, the way his whole being just lights up, it's truly something magnificent, and something Ignis will always appreciates. It's partly the reason Ignis also swore to be there for Iris, no matter what.] A family trait, as I noticed.[With a smile then, he looks down at his plate.]
Agreed. Also, find relief in the fact that even if you ran, I'd find you. [Smile.]