A modern/no-magic Faerun featuring burnt-out ER nurse Boletus and burnt-out ER MD Delton figuring out the whole dating thing while also having extremely busy, drama-filled lives. What could go wrong? While the two leads work in medicine, we plan on keeping anything specifically related to medicine pretty vague. Anything particularly graphic will be spoiled. Actual TWs include: military/general trauma PTSD, stalking, and themes of abuse. Will also spoiler as appropriate.

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Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Steffi 🍄 [Tavs:Mushroom Mob]

.mushrooming

Bee (Tav: Delton)

traver1111

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Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Bee (Tav: Delton)

traver1111

⚕️

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CAST Boletus Zales @Steffi 🍄 [Tavs:Mushroom Mob] Delton Naïlo @Bee (Tav: Delton)

His tail thumps excitedly against the car door in interest, while his face and voice are calm as can be. “I’d love to! I did say I wanted to scout for my new potential pet…” However, the breed ultimately doesn’t matter to Bo. He just wants a dog that he can care for, one he isn’t forced to give away just because his father would have rather put them down instead of take them to the vet. ”A dog like that is fuckin’ useless. Get out of the way, I’m gonna put it out of its misery...” “Not that a new pet would be my main motivation for doing so. I think I wrote down a dog work visit on my potential date plans with you anyways… I’m a fan of lists.” Speaking of that… I wonder how he feels about labels. I’ll hold off on that for now.

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Bee (Tav: Delton)

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Delton squeezes their hands again, smiling brightly. "I have a couple of parks I'd love to visit with you. Most of them also have specific areas for picnics so that you're not worried about losing track of your pets while eating." His cheeks are flushed at the idea that Bo has an entire list dedicated to date ideas already. Even if he already knew that - saw it, even - it's hard to fathom. They pull into a suburban neighborhood unique because of the lush lawns rather than uniform, almost terf-like front yards. He pulls into one house, a modest two-story home with light blue siding. It clearly fits many more people than just its two current occupants. Delton's just glad there's no gift waiting for him on the front porch. "Well, we're here!"

This is his house? It’s adorable. Of course Bo takes notice of his lawn that is biodiverse and made up of native plants, resulting in a uniquely beautiful landscape. His old home back in Melvaunt was lucky to get some half-dead crabgrass during the warmer months. “Thank you for driving,” he says with a bow of his head, getting out of the car and making his way to open the driver’s side door for Delton. For as poorly mannered as his father is, Bo is the complete opposite. Perhaps he idolizes the gentleman-types he’s seen in the movies, or the knights from Faerunian history long passed.

Delton laughs a little at Bo opening his door, cheeks turning pink. He hadn't realized that was what Bo was doing, fiddling around in his car. "Such a gentleman," he teases kindly, leaning up on his toes while gently dragging Bo down for a kiss on the cheek. He locks the car behind him and starts to head to the front door. "We specifically wanted to live in a neighborhood dedicated to nature and protecting biodiversity. Hence, everyone's lawns are a tame jungle instead of a, um, stadium pitch?" He unlocks the door, looking behind him to check that Bo is following and didn't leave something in the car.

Bo is crouched down on the ground, looking at the grass with his tail raised high in the air. It wags in interest as he examines the different types of grass and other foliage in Delton’s lawn. And then he’s looking stuff up on his phone… is he using an app that identifies plants? “Waterdhavian clover… bonesets… Sword Coast Tallgrass…” And now he’s writing something in his journal?

Delton leans against the doorframe, watching him for a moment. He's just too cute. "If you're excited by my front yard, I think you'll really like the sun room, Bo," he calls out, voice gentle if teasing. "The neighborhood took the maintenance of local biodiversity seriously, so everything in the yards is native. No threat of invasive species. The backyards a little more trim for Quothe, but still dedicated to helping out the local pollinators." If Delton didn't work such wacky shifts, he'd have bees. He likes bees.

“Oh! Sorry,” he says, standing up with a guilty look on his face. “I just like your lawn a lot. But, uh, sunroom? Ohh… let me stop wasting time out here when the good stuff is inside, then.” He follows Delton like an oversized dog, sliding his phone and journal back into his pocket. I wonder if my landlord would mind if I worked on the lawn outside the complex… it’s so dreadfully boring. Maybe he’ll take suggestions and hire a landscaper?

The house is relatively bright, with white walls decorated in pictures and shelves with memorabilia. In some of the pictures, there's a black half sun-elf, often with his hair up in a little poof. He's there in what is clearly Rolan's high school graduation picture, but missing in Lia's which is right next to it. It's a relatively open plan house, roomy, spacious, and well-maintained and totally covered in plants. They hang from shelves. It's not a thicket - far too well-maintained for that - but clearly plants bring Delton a lot of joy. From where Delton guides Bo, he only gets a small glance at a rather impressive kitchen. There's a few dog toys spread about as well as a book set on the table next to the couch, but it's neat and well-ordered.

"Take your shoes off, please," he hums as he removes his own shoes and places them on top of the cubby. They will be heading out eventually so it doesn't make sense to put them away. "The sun room is in the back. It's great because of my garden, but also because I can see outside to watch Quothe play. And I can see when he wants to be let in."

This house is everything he has ever dreamed of. It’s clean, well decorated, with plenty of photos on the wall. And the plants are an added bonus. Seeing a man he doesn’t recognize on the wall, he concludes that he must be Delton’s deceased husband. Gods, what a horrible thing to have to go through. A loss like that… I couldn’t imagine. He’s watched a lot of his friends die in the field, but a husband? He knows his heart loves strongly. To imagine the source of that love ripped away from him too early makes his stomach sink. Maybe this is a bad time for me to ask him to be my boyfriend. At Delton’s instruction, he removes his shoes and placed them neatly on top of the cubby next to Delton’s, taking only a moment to acknowledge the significant size difference between the two. His tail wags slowly as he follows the half elf. “You have a lovely home, Delton. Truly. I’m not exaggerating when I say this is exactly what I aspire to have someday.”

Delton smiles back at him, "Oh, thank you. It's a little lonely now with the kids gone, but it's home." He guides him through a hallway that heads to the backdoor as well as the sun room. He opens it to reveal a toasty patio area that's even more covered in plants. It's clearly well-organized, with a few beds of plants that house beautifully maintained flowers. Forget-me-nots, lavender, calibrachoas, and dahlias make up one bed and the other seems dedicated to vegetables that would have a harder time growing outside. There's well organized planters - several which contain sunflowers - and also a lot of herbs and more medicinal plants. He has one bed that seems completely dedicated to different types of tea. "Well, here it is. I love to sit out here and read. Especially in the morning because it's so toasty in here." There's a pair of beautiful oak rocking chairs with plush cushioning in the corner, a small table separating them.

The first thing that hits him is the overwhelmingly pleasant scent of all of the greenery. That was always his favorite part of his mother's garden. The smog that permanently hung over Melvaunt seemed nonexistent when all he could smell were roses and lavender. "I have no words," he says, using words. His tail swings slowly behind him in a relaxing, hypnotic rhythm. A first, he just takes a moment to appreciate each bed, examining them like he was examining the plaques back at the museum. His eyes take in every detail: the size of the leaves, the colors, the way the dirt is all slightly wet. After a moment, while staring at the dahlias, he speaks again. "These are one of my favorites," he remarks. "Dahlias. These are gorgeous. You must have worked so hard to maintain all of this." The upkeep of plants, flowers especially, in beds instead of in the ground is a bit more intense. They need more frequent watering and fertilizing because there's only so far their roots can go. He takes such good care of his patients. He takes such good care of his children. He takes such good care of all of these plants. Who takes care of him? He turns to Delton as if he wants to say something, but bites his lip instead.

Bo's excitement and wonder at the museum is just as palpable here, in the garden. It makes Delton smile and his cheeks pink, just a bit. "You can take any cuttings you want. I know you'll take good care of them." He hums happily, "Dahlias were my husband's favorite. They're beautiful. But, I will admit my own preference for sunflowers," he gestures at the various sunflowers in planters. But at the praise, he ducks his head, unused to such admiration. "Thank you. I love gardening. It's a way to get out of my head. And there's something about watching something you planted bloom before your eyes." His eyes scan over his plants, doing a mental check that they're alright for now. He'll come back before dinner too, just to make sure. But he catches the hesitancy on Bo's face, the way he bites his lip a little nervously, "Is everything alright, darling?"

”Dahlias were my husband’s favorite.” The rest of Delton’s words sound far away, muffled and unreal. When he speaks again, he almost interrupts his question. “I like you, Delton,” he confesses, his own words clear as day to his ears. “A lot. Like I’ve told you, I’ve never been in what I would consider a true relationship. Casual hookups, maybe. Men coming and going.” Ugh, what am I saying? He’s been married and here I am, an inexperienced fool who has ever only messed around before this. But none of it ever really made me happy. Not like this. “I had a lot of fun on our date, and I know we have already mutually agreed to continue to see each other.” I’m rambling, but I just… After spending a lot of the day with him, Bo has realized that Delton is clearly interested in him, but in a way that doesn’t make him feel uncomfortable. He is not like the men he has, in his eyes, wasted his time with. No unwanted touches, no leering stares, no strange comments about his horns or tail, no lewd thoughts speculating where the ridges of his body lie. It’s so refreshing. A breath of fresh air, warm sunlight on his skin. He does not want to let his opportunity pass him by. This is what he’s been missing in his life. “I want to… uh… how do I say this? I guess just by, um, saying it.” Facing Delton, surrounded by the physical proof that the man in front of him is an endlessly kind and nurturing soul, he takes those pales hands into his own and looks right into his eyes. “Could we be official? Boyfriends?” He is choosing to ignore his anxieties about entering a relationship with a widower with grown foster children. A doctor he works with and respects, downright reveres as a colleague. Those are facts he will have to contend with when he has the mental capacity to do so. His tail wags apprehensively in the air as he awaits his answer.

When Bo starts speaking, Delton starts preparing for the worst. He's, well, a lot. They're standing in the physical evidence of Delton’s baggage in a house that will always be slightly haunted by Theodus Naïlo. Delton will always be slightly haunted by Theodus Naïlo. So, he braces himself, schooling his features into a neutral mask and just glad that this happened earlier rather than later. The heartbreak later would be so much worse. But, then, Bo grabs his hands, looking earnestly in his eyes. And asks to be official. His relief is palpable, a smile spreading across his face, cracking the neutral mask into pieces. He realizes the pause might be slightly off-putting so he says, "I..yes, I would love that Bo. S-Sorry you scared me for a moment there, darling." He ducks his head, taking a steadying breath and continues, "May I-may I kiss you?" He might be pushing his luck, just a little.

"Yes! Yes, of course!" he beams. He cannot hide his excitement, because he simply no longer has the mental reserve to do so. With a hand on one of his freckled, perpetually pink-tinged cheeks, he pulls Delton in a gentle kiss. It's shy and unpracticed, yet warm. Boletus is always warm, his fiendish heritage expressed by a constantly elevated body temperature. Even his own scent is reminiscent of a smoky campfire, flames combined with wood and pine. His lips are one of the warmest parts of his body. It lingers, lips simply pressed together, while his tail loosely wraps around the other man's calves. He'll never be able to smell flowers without thinking of Delton ever again.

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Bee (Tav: Delton)

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Delton leans up on his toes as Bo leans down, not wanting the taller man to get a crick in his neck from kissing him. He reaches a hand up to cradle Bo's on his cheek, thumb caressing the broad knuckles. His other hand is on Bo's shoulder for balance, allowing him to stay on his toes. The kiss is chaste and the warmth that radiates off of Bo's lips is surprising, but very pleasant. The scent of a forest and a campfire floods Delton's senses, something he thinks could become one of his favorite scents. After a few moments, he breaks the kiss and settles back on his feet, a soft smile on his face. He keeps his hands where they are, holding Bo's against his cheek. The tail around his calves is steadying, making sure he doesn't fall over. He turns his face and presses a kiss against the palm of the tiefling's hand.

He keeps his eyes closed when Delton breaks away, enjoying the feeling of his hand on his face, those hands who have healed so many. There is a part of his mind logic does not reach, one that feels something almost angelic in his touch. Hands bathed im a golden light. “Wonderful,” he sighs, slowly opening his warm yellow eyes. “This is how I secretly hoped the end of this date was going to go.” His tail pulls away, swinging slowly behind its owner. “I am so happy you said yes. I’m sorry if I made you nervous earlier. Sometimes I’m a little too wordy. I should have just asked you outright.” The kiss might be over, but Bo is soaking up as much of the closeness as he can. He has a propensity to become addicted to things that make him happy, and this is just the beginning. While his hand still remains on Delton’s cheeks, he rests their foreheads together, the disjointed bumps at the base of his horns pressed into his skin.

Delton smiles, vibrant green eyes meeting warm yellow. "I-I had my hopes as well. But I wasn't sure...you mentioned you didn't have a lot of experience and I didn't want to push you before you were ready..." He laughs a little, "You made me a little nervous, but I don't want you to change, Bo. Your wordiness is another great thing about you. A rather adorable one, at that." When you aren't making me think you're stopping this before it even starts. He gently shifts his head so neither of them get hair caught in Bo's horns, closing his eyes and humming in contentment. "This has been a truly wonderful day. Thank you, really."

Bo’s lack of experience works in his favor. It’s easier for him to be bolder, to dive right into things that are new and exciting. He is free and open with his heart until somebody breaks it. “I should be thanking you,” he counters. “You have been nothing but patient and kind to me ever since I met you. I’m eager to return to favor.” He knows how it is to be a perpetual caregiver, not that he would ever have the insight to realize that’s the role he was given in life at such a young age. All he knows is he sees a tiredness in Delton’s eyes that he is all too familiar with, and all it does it make Bo want to help him in any way that he can. Whether that’s going out on dates, or by simply being a companion. He is sure to figure something out. “Do you have anything to do tonight? I would love to stay here just a bit longer.” When he texted his sister that he would be home a bit late, she reassured him that she would look after their father without him even having to ask I might need to start looking around at home health agencies for him…

Delton smiles and presses another gentle kiss to Bo's lips before saying, "Before we get stuck in a never-ending gratitude loop, let's just say we're both thankful for the other and be satisfied, yeah?" He gently rubs their noses together, slow and intimate. "I have nowhere to be. I asked Evelyn to take Quothe until late this evening anyway, so we can take our time." He can't help but bask in the intimacy of the moment, feeling toasty from the sun and Bo's warm skin. "We can put on a movie? I've got popcorn and hot chocolate to spare." Slowly, he wraps his arms around Bo's neck, imagining them curling up together and watching whatever strikes their fancy. "How about that documentary you looked up in the car, sweetheart?"

His tail lifts a bit higher at the phrase “hot chocolate.” Predictable. “A movie sounds wonderful. But to spare, you say? You know I’ve got a big appetite. Oh, and do you have marshmallows?” He makes his own tail start to wag with that word. Marshmallows. A very predictable man, he is. “As long as you won’t get too bored with that documentary… I would love to watch it with you.” Boring might be okay, though. A cute guy will be sitting next to him either way.

The laugh Delton lets out is full of delight. "Of course I have marshmallows. I'm Neverwintan - you can't have a proper Neverwintan spiced hot chocolate without marshmallows and whipped cream." He hums happily, "Bo, I don't mind. You've clearly got a high calorie need and I, well, live alone with a dog. I love to share. I wouldn't offer if I didn't." He rubs their noses together again, "I like documentaries. But I'd watch anything right now if it means I can curl up with you..." That's a little forward, for him. He hopes it lands properly.

It really shouldn't be surprising to him that a man who so casually held his hand and touched his knee at every opportunity that he could would be most excited about the chance to be close to him. His army buddies always described him as an oversized body pillow in the shape of a tiefling. Of course, someone like Bo doesn't mind. If he ever seemed like he shied away from physical contact, there was a reason. "Get off of me and quite cryin', Bo." "Quite clinging to your mom. You need to grow up." "Then I will be happy to indulge you. Cuddling in exchange for hot chocolate." His chest vibrates with a deep laughter, keeping his face close to Delton's. "I'm kidding. I'm not that bad about the whole 'equivalent exchange' thing. I am very interested in holding you for as long as you'd like." Oti will call me if anything happens to dad. I trust her. That doesn't stop him attempting to shoot her a text reminding her to give him his meds, but she has already texted him to inform him that she did. Looks like the normally slightly-irresponsible half orc can kick her own ass into gear when it means her lonely brother is "currently getting his dick wet". I'm not even going to acknowledge the fact that she just texted me that. Gods...

He presses a kiss to Bo's nose before pulling away. "Feel free to set up the couch while I make the hot chocolate and popcorn, love. The remotes are in the box on the table." He starts heading inside and beelines it for the kitchen. First, he fills up the popcorn maker, double what he usually makes. He'll probably make a second batch too, considering Bo's appetite. Then he puts milk on the stove to scald while he cuts up the chocolate. Soon enough, he's stirring a rich mixture of chocolate and milk that also smells slightly of cinnamon and chili. He tops his own with a ridiculous amount of whipped cream and just a few marshmallows. And brings the tray of hot chocolate and popcorn out to Bo.

Delton’s couch is as comfortable as it looks, a moderately sized sectional with multiple soft and fluffy pillows and throw blankets. It’s a big couch for just one man. Bo is happy to fill out some of that space for him. Is there where they spent every night together? Holding each other? A useless train of thought. A man like Delton deserves to move on, that is much is obvious. It’s Bo that can’t help but be curious, to worry, just a little, that he is intruding. Per his instructions, he grabs the remote for the TV and pulls up said documentary, a comfortable 65 minute affair. That’s at least 65 minutes of bliss, he thinks. When Delton comes out with the promised treats, perhaps Bo falls in love right then and there. Is that a halo atop his head? Okay, that’s an exaggeration. But Bo is a simple man. Are you cute, nice, and give him food? He is liable to fall in love eventually. For now, his tail thumps happily against the couch at the smell of popcorn and chocolate, a soft thudding sound produced by the motion. “Oh, thank you so much,” he says with a smile, a fluffy blanket spread across his lap. “Now, come get comfortable.”

Delton sets the tray down on the coffee table and looks at Bo. He chews on his lip for a moment before deciding to ask, "Would you-Would you like to cuddle?" That's what he had envisioned, after all. But he doesn't want to push where he's not wanted.

“Feel free,” he replies with a gentle smile. “Just mind the tail. It will probably wrap around you. If it does, you may push it aside if it bothers you. It’s got a mind of its own.” That’s not quite true. It’s more honest than Bo will ever be. Before Delton can sit down, he leans forward a bit to fix his hot chocolate, or rather, his cup of marshmallows with some hot chocolate hidden underneath somewhere. Of course I had to wear a white sweater. Best be careful not to spill… I need to go clothes shopping sometime.

Delton watches Bo fix his hot chocolate and grabs some coasters for the side table. That way, neither of them have to reach for the coffee table and risk spilling. He curls up close to Bo, head resting on a broad shoulder. He wraps his arms around his torso and spreads his legs out. "I don't mind. I think it's sweet. Feel free to move me how you want so you can get comfortable, sweetheart."

Move him however I want? “O-oh, y-you’re fine. Just the way you are! Fine, so very f-fine.” It was a bit hard to tell until now, but Delton is quite thin compared to him. Lithe arms wrapped around his upper body like this… Bo does not let himself go down this train of thought. Thankfully for him, he’s easily distracted, because now the documentary is starting and he has hot chocolate within his reach. He happily sips on it while a narrator with a bit of a droning voice speaks. His hands might be occupied, but that’s what his tail is for. Just like he warned, the thick appendage flops onto Delton’s lower body, the tufted tip of it resting by his waist. The way only the very end flicks up and down is reminiscent of… a cat? “I don’t mind if you touch it,” he mentions offhandedly. “It… uh… it’s nice.” Cue a long, awkward sip of his drink.

Delton smiles, dragging the blanket securely around both of them. He gently moves Bo's tail so it's easier to reach and gently pets it. He sinks into the couch and Bo, quickly getting engrossed in the documentary. The subtitles are on, because sometimes processing words can be hard. The documentary is in his third language, after all. "You can relax. You don't have to be afraid of crushing me. I'm small, not fragile." He shoots a slightly teasing smile towards Bo, snuggling in deeper.

His life as always been a delicate balance of figuring out just how much space to take up, or just how much of his strength to use at any given time. His default is to be gentle and restrained, because he does not want to perpetuate the various stereotypes applied to his people. “Right. Of course,” he blurts out, realizing he was quite stiff on the couch and seemingly afraid to put any of his own weight on the other man. So he throws an arm around him and pulls him just a bit closer, his entire body exuding a comforting warmth. “I’m so glad I saw the exhibit for watching this,” he comments. “It makes all of this so much easier to appreciate. And oh, is this the school your son attends? You must be very proud.”

When Bo relaxes, he cuddles even further into his side, happy to see the tiefling relax just a little. The other man is always so careful, so gentle. Delton worries that Bo never feels like he's allowed to just be. "You don't have to worry here. I like you for you, sweetheart. Trust me." The tiefling is pleasantly warm and, as a person who often runs cold, it's very lovely to leech just a little. "I am proud. Rolan worked his butt off and really beat the odds in a lot of ways. But, I'm proud of my kids for just being them, ya know? I want them to succeed, but I love them no matter what. Even if I don't always agree with their choices, they know I'm in their corner."

“*You don’t have to worry,*” he says, to the man who doesn’t know how to not worry. The high he felt from asking Delton to be his boyfriend has worn off, only leaving a cold anxiety in its place. Enjoy it. Let yourself enjoy it. This is nice. It’s so, so nice. He can trick his mind long enough to let himself bask in something objectively pleasant. The hand on his tail helps just a bit. It’s something else to focus on. “You’re a wonderful father,” he replies fondly. “They’re so lucky to have you.” His hand idly traces up and down the length of Delton’s arm as he speaks. “It’s clear to me that you love them. It’s just nice to see a parent who cares.”

He basks in the easy contact. He's a tactile person and he's been missing such idle touches for a long time. "Hmm, just doing what my own parents didn't. Want them to always know that I love them." Doubting that your parents love you is one of the hardest things for a child. Delton knows that intimately well. "I'm lucky to have them. they're my light and they owe me nothing. Kids are meant to break your heart and eat your food, after all," he's joking a little but also completely sincere. His kids mean the world to him. And when he took them in he made a vow that he owed them everything within his power and they owed him nothing for that. Resting his head on Bo's chest, he shifts them slightly so he's pretty much on top of the tiefling. Bo's warmth is addicting and the steady thrum of his heart soothing. He wraps his arms around Bo even tighter. Not demanding or suffocating, but a gentle reminder that he wants Bo to be as close to him as the tiefling's comfort level allows.

The physical contact is nice. He's happy someone can enjoy his body like this, in a way that isn't purely sexual or fetishizing. What if I'm just a replacement? Just someone he wanted to talk to because he missed having a man hold him? Another useless thought. It's tossed away in the ever-growing pile of useless thoughts he has all of the time. Talking about Delton's kids is a fantastic distraction from these useless, useless thoughts that only seek to sabotage one of the few good things in his life before he even gets the chance to enjoy it. So he rests of his hand on the small of Delton's back, using the claws that have already grown past his finger tips after only two days of neglect to draw small, gentle circles there. Truthfully, he is only dedicating about 20% of his attention to the documentary. He'll definitely need a re-watch when he isn't using 70% of his attention to focus on the feeling of Delton's body on his own and the last 10% on his Useless Thoughts that are trying to convince him that this entire relationship might be a fluke. "What a refreshing outlook," he replies warmly. "Being so open to them making mistakes, being themselves..." I wish I could have had that. His true self is not what his father wanted, so he learned how to live with the shame. "If they ever have families of their own, they're surely impart those lessons onto their own children. Perhaps it's not just them who are lucky to have you, but their potential children, too. And so on, and so forth..." It's why Bo has always dreamt of starting his own family. It only takes one kind soul to break that streak of generation trauma. But it's a bit early for Bo to confess such a thing to Delton. This is the time to keep things lighthearted. To learn about each other. To see if they can survive the inevitable hurdles. "Sorry, this is sort of a heavy topic for a first date," she admits with a nervous laugh. "Family is just something that is important to me,

Delton pretty much purrs at the gentle scratching. He could fall asleep to this, cradled in the gentle intimacy of the moment. "I'm just trying my best. I'm sure I come up short in some ways." I couldn't convince Rolan I wasn't going anywhere after all. It's why they're across the city instead of with me. He's slowly petting Bo's tail with one hand and rubbing the bump between the tiefling's nape and back. "I just hope they know that I'm trying my best, even when I mess up." He leans up to look in Bo's eyes, "Don't apologize. I mean, I'm glad we're talking about it. My kids and I, we're a package deal. It's nice to hear that you value family as much as I do. I see it with how you talk about Otidea." "It's nice to know we're on the same page about something so important." They wouldn't be going anywhere if they weren't, after all.

Maybe his anxieties aren’t completely gone, but there’s something almost magical about how that touch at the base of his neck relaxes him so quickly. “That’s true,” he concedes, wondering what he was even worrying about in the first place. “It is nice to know. One important way that we fit, right?” Opinions related to kids is one major hurdle for a lot of couples, and they’ve already got it figured out. Mostly. He meets Delton’s gaze and takes a moment to examine his features. Before tonight, he has only ever been able to steal the occasional glance at work. They would both be running around so much, he could never get his fill of that stunningly gorgeous face. But now? It’s mere inches away from him. His eyes are the most lovely shade of green, and freckles are spattered all over his adorable cheeks that seem to have been permanently stained pink ever since the beginning of their date. He is just my type. I feel like I’m dreaming. “Would it be too much if I told you how handsome you are?” he confesses, brushing a bit of his red hair behind slightly pointed ears. “I always thought you were. But a nurse crushing on a doctor? It sounds like something that only happens in medical dramas.”

Bo relaxes significantly under his ministrations and Delton can't help but smile in response. The other man is always so tense - it's nice to see him loosen up a little. At Bo's praise, he ducks his head, a little embarassed. "Thank you. Though I feel like I'm not that special compared to you. I don't know how I snagged you - or Theo. I guess I've always had the type of out of my league." He reaches up to gently play with Bo's hair, starting to create a loose braid, "But I've met a few doctor-nurse couples. Not too many, because most doctors I associate with are afraid of their nurses," he laughs, "As they should be, I think."

“… me? Out of your league?” Delton is handsome doctor with a nice house, who is a family man, who has the world’s loveliest personality and most intelligent mind. And Bo is out of his league? Perpetually single Bo? Living in an apartment with his little sister and dying father Bo? Terminally anxious and pessimistic Bo? The only thing Bo has ever thought he had going for him were his looks, and even that’s a mixed bag for him. There are days where the attention makes him want to sink into the ground. There are days where he wants to rip the horns right off of his head. So he just starts to laugh, his chest warming up from the radiance of it. “Delton, I don’t agree that I am out of your league at all. But I am incredibly flattered that you think so. That might be the most flattering thing I’ve ever heard in my life…” He lets out a pleasured sigh as Delton starts to braid his hair. Another weakness of his found in an instant: someone playing with his hair. Guess he won’t be cutting it any time soon, even though he was initially planning to. “They should be,” he agrees when Delton brings up a very important point. “But I’m not a very scary nurse.” Bo is an idiot, because of course he’s a scary nurse. Patient advocacy is important to him. He has no problem challenging doctors when it comes to inappropriate orders or a perceived delay in patient care. “You know,” begins the totally not-scary nurse, “I liked our kiss earlier. What did you think about it?” Welcome to the Bo rizzing hour.

"Bo, half of the nursing department is in love with you. Because you are kind and sincere and funny. I'm lucky that, of everyone, you chose me." Because he is. Bo is lovely, well-articulated, someone who gives up so much for his family. Delton is boring, with more baggage than most people would even imagine. Sure, he's nice. But that's the bare minimum. That's not a personality. "I used to have really long hair as a kid. I don't miss taking care of it, but I miss braiding it." He keeps braiding it. It's loose and nothing special. He is doing it where he can barely see, after all, on an unfamiliar hair texture. "You're scary when you need to be, don't sell yourself short. I just have never been on the wrong side of your ire." He tries his hardest to be at the forefront, to never be the dismissive doctors he saw in his youth. If ER doctors hadn't brushed off the red flags when he was little, he could have been removed much earlier. Delton releases a giggle at that, leaning up to brush their noses together. "Is that an invitation for another kiss, darling?"

These two could truly argue in circles over who is the lucky one out of pair, lifting each other up while putting themselves down. It’s ultimately a fruitless endeavor. Bo can only break the cycle by attempting to allow himself to accept compliments from a man he has nothing but respect for. Well, that’s not true anymore. He has a lot more than simple respect for him, judging by the fond look in his eyes wherever they fall upon the half elf’s face. “Long hair? Hmm…” he mumbles, trying to imagine it. “I adore your hair the way it is now, but I bet long short looked beautiful on you, too…” He chooses to ignore the scary nurse comment, only because while being intimidating at work often works in his favor, being intimidating in every day life is a source of frustration for him. His carefully curated aesthetic is meant to offset the inherent scariness of a 6’2” tiefling male built like a brick house. Besides, he has more important things to worry about other than his constant battle with his own identity… like his adorable boyfriend picking up on his strange attempt to get another kiss from him. “It is. If you’d agree to indulge me,” he says with his best attempt at a flirty wink.

Delton smiles, continuing to play with the tiefling's hair. "I've toyed with growing it out, but watching Lia have to care for her long hair has pretty much swayed me otherwise. Plus, this length is so much easier for work..." All Delton has to do is pull the front back from his face, after all. He doesn't have to worry about losing hair bands or pins or claw clips. "I'm not going to refuse such an earnest request from a handsome man..." He shifts up for a better angle, not wanting Bo to bend down any more than he needs to. He presses a soft kiss to Bo's lips, hands gently entwining in Bo's hair and destroying the work he did on the braid. Oh, what a tragedy. He supposes he has to just keep playing with Bo's hair and do it over.

This is something he could easily become addicted to. He hasn’t quite noticed yet that Delton makes a conscious effort to spare him the discomfort of craning his neck lower to accommodate his much smaller partner, but surely, soon enough, he’ll come to appreciate the efforts. Documentary be damned… kissing is more interesting to him right now, because he can watch some guy talk about ancient civilizations whenever. But this? They’re both busy men in a demanding career with just as demanding home lives. Bo will get as much of Delton as he reasonably can tonight. His hands remain on the small of Delton’s back as he returns the kiss, his tail flopping around on the couch a bit comically. “Damn thing,” he mutters, before meeting his lips again. Flop flop flop…

Bo kisses him like he's something to be cherished, soft and gentle and not demanding more. It's so lovely, a reminder that this is how things are meant to be. One bad man shouldn't destroy over a decade with Theo. And this just started, but he hopes he can make new happy memories with Bo too. The documentary plays on, but Delton’s more concerned with running his hands through his boyfriend's hair before massaging at his temples and the base of his horns. Bo's words make him pout slightly and he's the one to pull back to say, "I love it. It's adorable. Shows you want to be with me." And then he brings their lips together again, hands going back to their gentle massage.

"Of course I want t-" He holds back a satisfied groan when hands apply just the right amount of pressure where his horns meet his forehead. "Of course you know a tiefling's weak spot, " he jests, eyes closed. "Good gods, that feels nice..." Do I have to go home...? The attention isn't sexual at all, not in the slightest. Not like attention to his horns had been in the past. It feels heavenly. Refreshing. "Mmm, Delton..." he hums. "You're making it hard for me to want to go home after this."

Delton keeps up his gentle massage. "Sorry to tell you, Bo, but I've got insider knowledge." He's raised three tieflings, after all. It's like their little 'off' switch. His touch is firm enough to be effective, but gentle enough to not hurt or irritate. It's a sensitive area, after all. "Then stay," he murmurs. There's a moments pause before he goes as red as his hair. "Not-not like that. Um, to cuddle? If you want? I could also set up the guest bedroom if you don't want to sleep in the same bed because I don't want you to be uncomfortable-" He's rambling and a little breathless because of it. He doesn't want to come on too strong. It wasn't even a come on, after all. He just likes to cuddle.

"Lucky me..." he sighs, his entire body relaxing into a puddle underneath the half elf. His eyes are still closed and his mouth drawn into a dopey smile when he replies to Delton's seemingly cheeky invitation. "Sure. I'd love to..." But Delton starts to stammer, the body on top of his own feeling stiff with nervousness. "Hey, hey," he reassures, stroking one of Delton's cheeks. "I'm not uncomfortable. If this is what I can expect more of? I'm not going to say no. Not to this face." Bo doesn't consider himself a fliratious person, but something about Delton draws it out of him. Maybe it's how nervous he seems? It just makes him want to step up. To be more open, more confident. Show him that he isn't wasting his time with someone like himself.

He doesn't seem real. It's not the flirting that causes that thought, but the dopey smile and sincere fondness in his gaze. Does he not understand that most people wouldn't be happy with a cuddle? Well, he supposes the sample size Delton has is limited to two - now three. Both Bo and Theo seem content to let this simmer and not boil. Bo's very handsome and sweet and kind, yes. But he needs much more intimacy for desire to really bubble up. It doesn't seem like the time to bring that up. "Okay...I fear I don't have anything that will fit you to sleep in, but I do have extra toiletries. And I'll have to pick up Quothe but...I'd love for you to stay the night..." He leans down, placing his sensitive head against the place where Bo's heart beats steadily.

“Oh, well, that’s alright. I usually sleep shirtless,” he replies, fingers weaving through vibrant red hair. It’s true, he does. And they’re both men. He’s been shirtless around plenty of men all throughout his relatively short military career. In the context of being shirtless around a new boyfriend? It only feels a little nerve-wracking, but it can be easily pushed through if it means he gets more of *this*. At least he knows Delton certainly won’t mind unsightly ridges and wingtips on what Bo considers to be a decently built body otherwise. “And as long as you don’t mind me using your washing machine, since I’m going have to wash my clothes before putting them back on in the morning.” Even if he’s worn something for 10 minutes at most, the moment clothes are put on his body, they are considered “dirty” and cannot be reworn until they’re washed. It’s just how it is. “Thank you for letting me continue to impose on your hospitality then,” he says in a low voice that makes his chest vibrate. “I greatly appreciate it.”

The idea of Bo shirtless makes his cheeks warm once again, but he nods against Bo's chest, ear still pressed to that gentle thrum. He leans into the gentle hands carding through his hair, sighing happily. He usually wears a too-big shirt and his underwear. "Yes, sure you can wash them Bo," he says, not even questioning it. Some people have things with clothes - he's not one to judge. All of his have the tags removed so they don't irritate his skin, "I don't think my bathrobe will fit, but we can try it if you feel more comfortable with that instead of walking around in your pjs for a while - I don't want you to have damp clothes tomorrow." That would be uncomfortable. He doesn't want Bo to be uncomfortable. "Imposition implies that I don't want you here. That couldn't be farther from the truth. I'm quite," ecstatic, overjoyed, "happy that you are staying..." He starts tracing random patterns into Bo's chest. "Though maybe we should wait on watching documentaries together until we can actually pay attention...or we can watch another and just not pay attention to that either." He gives a small laugh at that, more of a humored release of breath than a true chuckle.

“Haha, I’m sure it won’t fit me, but I can certainly try it on,” he laughs. The next time he sleeps over, he’ll be sure to stash some of his own clothes here. Oh, maybe that’s thinking too far ahead? Delton’s next statement prompts Bo to turns his head to the TV, where it’s clear the documentary has long been over. So much so, the TV must have turned itself off while the pair was canoodling. “The background noise was sort of nice,” he lies, because he didn’t even register the sounds of the documentary after a certain point. Delton is just too much of a distraction. Far too adorable. And I get to have this? Whenever? Well, whenever within reason? The two enjoy a quiet, peaceful moment together, arms and legs entangled… … Until Bo’s stomach rumbles. Loudly. This noise is accompanied by his tail smacking against the couch a few times. The tiefling just blushes and says nothing.

Delton just laughs kindly and leans down for another gentle kiss. "I guess that's my cue to get dinner started..." But, frankly, he doesn't want to get up. That means he has to detangle himself from Bo and not be able to bask in his presence. "...Actually, how do you feel about delivery?" He doesn't care what. He just wants to continue to bask in this lovely quiet intimacy with his new boyfriend. "I, um, want to keep cuddling..." Maybe that's too truthful, too straightforward considering how new this is. But Delton doesn't really care. Honesty is easy. And better for communication after all.

"Gods, yes to the delivery," he agrees enthusiastically. "Er, sorry about my giant appetite. My mom used to say I ate as much as two people, even as a baby. I have no reason not to believe that..." Delton's rather frank admission about his desires just makes his chest feel warmer than it usually is. This is quite a different man, different from the doctor he sees run the entire ER like a well-oiled machine. Different might be the wrong word. This is really just another side of Delton he's being introduced to. A Delton that seeks comfort in the form on close physical contact. A Delton that just wants someone to care for him for once. "I'm happy to do this for the rest of the night, but... goodness. What will I do when I need to go to the bathroom?" I'd happily suffer through it, I suppose.

Delton crosses his arms on Bo's chest, resting his chin on his hands. "Bo, everyone has different metabolisms. I don't mind that you eat a lot because that's what your body needs. You don't have to be embarassed, not with me." This is sort of similar to a conversation he's had with his kids. They're all tall and tiefling and might not know the details but know he's got some issues with food. But he never wanted his own relationship with food to cause them to suffer. His nutritionist friends had helped a lot with making a diet that is good for them as well as meeting his needs. He really tries. He'd move heaven and earth for his kids. He can't help but laugh at that, "You dork. I'll let you up to pee, don't worry. And if you ever get touched out, just let me know. I'm a tactile person, but I respect the fact that people might not want or need it as much me." He hums happily as he reaches over to grab his phone off the table. "What type of food are you feeling?"

The tail wrapped around Delton’s waist starts to wag as its owner contemplates his food choice. “I sort of feel like being bad,” he admits. “Indulging. But, I can always work it off in the gym tomorrow…” he trails off. “Feel free to shoot me down, but I’m in the mood for pizza.” He narrows his eyes just a bit as Delton has already gotten his phone out. So he's paying… That means he’s paying for the next shared meal. Bo silently wonders if he could ever feel “touched out.” Probably not.

He winces a little at the implication of 'being bad.' His food aversions are more a mix of autism, messed up hunger signals, and the need for control, but... Well, thought processes like that still cause him to pause. To feel not ideal about eating. There are no good foods or bad foods. Everything in moderation. Your body needs fuel. "Pizza works," he says, trying to sound more casual than he feels, "I'll get something small for myself, because I'm a vegetarian. I'm sure whatever you don't eat, you can take home to Otidea." He puts in for a small vegetarian personal pie, before handing the phone to Bo. He goes back to laying his head on Bo's chest.

The man ate a shit ton of sushi for lunch and half a dozen cookies on the way over. So he will be ordering only one large pizza for himself for tonight. With three different meat toppings, of course. With his order placed, he sets Delton’s phone back on the table. “Thanks for the food, Delton,” he hums, a hand resting lightly on the middle of his back. He silently wonders if he will be able to act normal at work around him. Bo knows he’s rather good at keeping a straight face, but as he glances at his tail and how it’s so completely wrapped around the other man’s legs, he concludes he will just have to keep him out of its reach. Would be awful if that thing tied to hug him during a code. … It wouldn’t do that, right?! “It’s funny, I’ve pretty much secured the rest of the night with the lovely Dr. Naïlo, yet I’m already wondering when I’ll get to see you outside of work again. I’m so awful at living in the moment.”

His arms wrap a little tighter around Bo, happy to have his pillow lay down again. "It's no problem, lovely. Glad to take care of you," he sounds a little sleepy. He is essentially sprawled out on a lovely heating pad that also has the benefits of a being a person he really likes. "I think...it's not bad to think about stuff like that. I think planning for the future is good - especially with how busy both of us are, *Nurse Zales,*" He uses the name teasingly. "But if you can't enjoy now, that's when it's a problem. And you seem to be enjoying now just fine," he pets Bo's tail, a little pointedly. "We can put something on the TV if you want, as we wait for the food to come."

He wouldn’t be mad if Delton fell asleep. The weight of another on him is more relaxing than he ever knew possible. Relaxation. Peace. He hasn’t truly known these things since long before he served in the military. “I can absolutely enjoy the now, since his is my now…” he mumbles to himself, suppressing a snort as Delton gives him a taste of his own medicine by calling him “Nurse Zales.” Oh, no. It’s a problem that I kind of like him calling me that… He could truly just sit in silence here, but he can also reach the remote without getting up, so he might as well put something on as background noise. What better than a nature documentary about the ocean? Jellyfish and whales swimming in the ocean while another gentle voice narrates all sorts of interesting facts? It’s almost like a lullaby. But he has pizza coming… he must stay awake for pizza.

Delton barely makes it to pick up the pizza and give a tip. Bo's just so warm. He gets out plates for the two of them to eat on, choosing to sit on the sofa. The nature documentary is making him even more sleepy, leaning heavily into Bo. "How's the food?" His own pie is being devoured much slower than Bo's, but it's good at least. Leftovers for tomorrow, he supposes

“‘Sgood,” he mumbles, his mouth full. Unsurprisingly, he gets some sauce on his white sweater, scowling a bit when he notices. “Oh, darn... I need to go shopping anyways. I only have cold weather clothing, but the climate here is so much different than my hometown.” A date idea? Maybe Delton has a better eye for fashion than he does.

Delton laughs a little at Bo's face, "Take off your shirt and I can get the stain out, lovely. It's better now then when it's soaked in." He hums thoughtfully at that, "I'm not saying it can't get cold here - Waterdeep's ocean effect is harsh, but it's probably not the season for your Moonsea clothes..." "I know a few places that have good deals even for in-season clothes. Though I'd need to see more of the clothes you're comfortable in before I make any recommendations." He's lived here most of his life, after all.

Well, he can’t argue with that. And despite how the sweater is admittedly small on him, he still thinks it’s a nice basic piece that’s worth saving. So he takes it off, folds it into a neat little square, and hands it to Delton. “Thank you,” he says with a slight bow of his head. Exercise is one of Bo’s main ways of handling his stress and anxiety, and has been for a long, long time. It clearly shows on his body, of course, his naturally larger frame decorated with highly defined musculature. “Hmm, I never gave much thought of what I’m comfortable in,” he begins, his face clearly pondering. “Nothing too tight, I guess? And I’m pretty sensitive to warmer weather, so breezy fabrics and all that would be a must.” He looks right at Delton before speaking again. “Would you want to come with me sometime? Shopping?”

Delton doesn't stare as Bo undresses. He hasn't been given permission for that. He knows what it's like to be ogled at - and he doesn't want to do that to his new boyfriend. Bo's attractive, but that's not why Delton is attracted to him anyway. He quickly heads to the sink, scraping off the excess sauce with a knife. He then uses dishsoap to scrub into the garment, slowly but surely getting the stain out. When the stain disappears under the cold water and scrubbing, he goes to throw it in the washer. "You'll just throw your pants about two hours before bed and that gives us enough time to dry them." His OCD doesn't let him run machines while he's asleep. He's too afraid of a fire. He sits back down and grabs another slice of pizza. Then, Delton remembers he was asked a question, "Oh, sorry. One track mind, I suppose. Sure, I'd love too. Show you some of the better places - though I'll have to ask around where the best selection for your size is," he shrugs, "I'm short. I know that. I've never really taken notice of selections for people much taller than me. Besides my sons, but they're more beanpoles than anything else."

With his shirt off, left alone on the couch for a moment, he just feels odd in a way that hard to explain. Even though he’s not cold, he wraps a little throw blanket around his shoulders just to cover up. Maybe he just feels vulnerable. But to what? He’s in a new house with a new boyfriend. Maybe that’s what it is. It’s all so strange and new, and being shirtless just adds to that general feeling. “Well, while I do usually order online, I feel like now that I live here in a much bigger city, there should be options for me… I missed shopping in a store.” Being big and tall is limiting enough on its own, and having a large tail sprouting from just above his ass just makes it worse. Maybe he should find another tailor… His pizza continues to grab his attention, taking care not to spill sauce on a blanket that’s not his. “I’m counting this as a potential date idea, by the way,” he tries to flirt, resulting in the world’s cringiest fingers guns. I’m so… what does Oti say? “Cringe?”

Delton giggles a little at that, settling down on the couch. Bo's just so adorable. He carefully keeps his eyes on Bo's face, seeing thr flash of vulnerability on the tiefling's face. "You're so cute, you know?" He says with a grin. "I know some tiefling friendly stores that have tiefling-specific sections. More room in collars for horns and holes for pants..." He tilts his head, looking up toward the lights in thought, "Even the non-tiefling specifc clothes at those stores are usually easier to tailor than elsewhere..." "But I'd love to go with. I can't say I've a very good eye for fashion but I imagine we can find things you're comfortable in, at least."

“Cute…?” Thats not a word often used to describe me… There’s just a permanent deep orange flush to his cheeks as he speaks. “Oh? See, there was only one of those stores in Melvaunt, but it shut down while I was in my teens. After that, I had a tailor.” Even if Delton doesn’t have an eye for fashion, he’s just looking for excuses to hang out with him. Company is nice. “Comfort is the ideal, but there’s a part of me that’s a little more shallow, as much as I hate to admit it. I, uh… like to look put together?” Not even Bo fully realizes that he actively tries offset his looks with nice and neat clothing. The majority of his pizza is finished, the nice little blanket on his shoulders spared from the Sauce Assault, he leans back on the couch in post-pizza bliss.

Delton leans forward to press a kiss to his cheek - now even warmer from his blush. He's probably going to have to ask Bo to brush his teeth with how much meat was on that pizza. Not because he thinks meat-eating is gross. Just, the last time he accidently ate meat he got sick. "It's not shallow to want to look nice. I like to look nice. It's only shallow if you judge others who don't dress like that." "Do you want me to put the rest in the fridge? I'm probably going to head over to get Quothe in a few minutes." He knows the Rottweiler is probably having fun, but he wants to get in his own pajamas, to be honest.

“Yes, sure. Thank you. Surprisingly, I couldn’t finish. Well, that’s not surprising, actually. Big lunch and all…” His tail softly thumps against the couch. “Oh? I’ll wait for you right here then,” he replies, pointing to his shirtless state. “Oh, I missed that little guy…” Quothe is definitely not little, of course. “Don’t mind me. There’s a very interesting documentary on, so I’ll be entertained.” He is being 100% serious. There’s an octopus on screen, and the narrator is talking about their ability to camouflage. Fascinating. Bo is even leaning forward a little bit.

Walking across your yard to pick up your dog usually doesn't take long. Today is no different. Miss Evelyn opened the door with a smile and he could tell that Quothe had a good day seeing as he doesn't run to him. He walks at a leisurely pace. After he's harnassed up - and Delton hands over the brownies he made for her as payment because she wouldn't accept money - they're on their way with hugs as goodbye. The return home is uneventful.

Once Ada lets him in, he sniffs the air and his butt starts wiggling with excitement. The man is back! The man with big gentle hands! He grabs his rainbow gorilla - the second highest honor. His Ada is the only one who gets his rainbow sheep, after all, and he makes his way into the living room, his entire body wagging in excitement. He makes a beeline for the couch and lays his head on Bo's lap, big puppy dog eyes in full force.

2

Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Steffi 🍄 [Tavs:Mushroom Mob]

.mushrooming

Close

Delton simply leans against the doorframe, waiting to see what happens.

His tail wags just about as hard as the rottie’s is, his eyes lighting right up. “Oh, well hello!” he coos, immediately scritching behind his floppy ears. “Did you have fun? Did you bring me a present?” His voice never really strays into that quintessential baby-talk, but it’s got an obvious excitable quality to its tone the it doesn’t usually have. “Is this your toy? Are you letting me borrow it? Oh, you’re the sweetest little guy *ever*…” Bo takes the gorilla and wiggles it in Quothe’s face a bit.

Quothe pants in his excitement, butt still wiggling. He gives such good pets! Happy Ada brought him home! At the wiggling of his gorilla, he gently takes it in his teeth and pulls slightly. He doesn't want to break one of his favorite toys, but he so desperately wants to play.

From the doorframe, Delton calls out, "You should feel honored. He only brings that gorilla to family members, usually." He heads over to the couch, sitting daintily to not interrupt. He reaches out to pet Quothe's head, the rottie's tongue lolling in happiness. "You're good with him."

He tugs lightly against Quothe’s grasp, shaking the toy a little bit just to rile him up slightly. “Aww, you’re not gonna let me have it? I don’t know… I kind of want it. You know what they say about presents. No take-backs!” That warm, deep laugh is back as he continues pulling on the toy, but never hard enough to really yank it out of the dog’s mouth until he decides to give it up in response to the excellent head pats from his owner. His own tail thumps heavily against the couch. “You think so?” he replies to Delton. “I’m just happy he likes me. Getting the dog’s approval is important. Maybe the most important.”

Delton leans over to kiss him on the cheek again. "I know so. And dogs are good judges of character, so I'm inclined to think Quothe is one of the most important approvals." Of course, his kids are ranked higher. But he doesn't need to be scaring Bo right now. "What do you want to do now?"

1

Steffi 🍄 [Tavs:Mushroom Mob]

.mushrooming

Close

“Well, if you’re done eating and watching TV, we could get ready for bed?” Bo tends to sleep normally on his days off, only switching to night shift mode the days he actually works. “Doesn’t mean we need to sleep per se, but we had a long day. Are you tired at all?” It’s sort of a rhetorical question. Delton often looks pretty tired in his eyes. It’s the kind of tired that seems pervasive, like one good nights sleep isn’t enough to fix it.

Stroking Quothe's coat, he nods. "It sounds like a plan to me. If nothing else, I can throw on an old cartoon to lull us to sleep." He shoots Bo a smile and starts to lead him upstairs, "i can take your pants and socks to wash. Your sweater is already in the machine." He opens up the door to a bright room, also decorated with a lot of plants. It's very tidy, white walls making the space seem even bigger. The bed looks *luxurious*. Delton doesn't seem to splurge on a lot. This seems to be one of the things he does. There's a dog bed in the room as well as a little writing desk. An ensuite is connected to the room. "There's an extra toothbrush under the sink and face wash on the island. I'm going to run those down as you get ready, yeah?"

It’s certainly a far cry from his almost-too-small for him full sized bed in his apartment. For a while, he just takes in the space. It’s clean. Not too minimalist, but not too cluttered either. And of course, all of the plants are pleasing to the eye and give the entire room and nice earthy scent. “You have a lovely bedroom,” he says in awe. “Thank you for letting me stay the night…” In the en suite, he removes his clothing for Delton to wash and begins his nightly routine. Or as much of it as he can in a bathroom that isn’t his. Teeth brushed, face washed, timed activities counted down by his precise mental clock.

"Of course, lovely," he hums, before heading down to start the wash. It's quick, relatively. But he will be staying up until the wash and dry cycles are over. He's not fond of letting machines run when no one is awake. Delton's back before Bo's out of the bathroom. And he wonders what to do about pajamas. It's not the season for long pajamas, but he doesn't want to bring too much attention to his thighs and arms. The scars are, well, obvious. But hiding them isn't really conducive to a relationship either. No need for secrets. Well, more secrets, anyway. He settles on an oversized shirt to hide the scar on his abdomen and his boxer briefs. Then, he sits and waits for Bo to finish to take his turn.

He’s soon out of the bathroom, clad in only simple fitted black boxers. Again, being mostly nude around other men is somewhat normal for him, but it’s still quite different for him in the context of being around a freshly new boyfriend. Of course Bo’s eyes glance at the scars on Delton’s limbs. The gaze is as brief as he can possibly make it, and he says nothing to acknowledge them. He isn’t one to pry. “Um, you’re very adorable,” he confesses randomly. Wow. You’re an idiot. “I mean, well… nothing else left to do but enjoy a food coma while bad TV lulls us to sleep?” Do I get in the bed first, or does he? It’s his bed… dating is so confusing.

Delton senses Bo's discomfort at being looked at, so he keeps his eyes on the tiefling's face. So he sees the glancd at his scars and braces himself for a bunch of uncomfortable questions. They never come, to his surprise. It's a relief. He'll have to talk about it at some point, but that day isn't today. Bo's words make him blush crimson and play with a loose string on his t-shirt. "You can-you can get in. I take the left. Quothe will probably jump up too." It's probably obvious which side he sleeps on, considering that's where his book and charger is. But, just to be sure. "I, um, will be up for a while. I can't sleep when machines are on in the house." There are an estimated 15,790 fires caused by dryers each year. The last thing he wants is something to go wrong, and he can't do anything about it. He walks into his bedroom and goes through his evening routine. It's a little ritualized at this point, but his therapist agreed that he needs to pick his battles. He hasn't turned the car around to check if the stove was on in over six months. So, it's working.

“Oh… I get that,” he replies in understanding. It’s not one of his specific compulsions, but he has a slew of others. In someone else’s place, especially one where it’s quite tidy, they seem to quiet. So he makes himself comfortable on the other side, shuffling his body underneath the heavy comforter. “Oh my gods,” he quietly exclaims. “Your bed is insanely comfortable.” The soft wagging of his tail and be heard, but the motions and sounds of it are hampered by the weight of the blankets. “Anyways, I’ll be up, too. But I’ll have no problem just laying here when the bed is so *exquisite.*”

Quothe trots in, after doing whatever it is that dogs do when their humans aren't paying particular attention to them. He looks at Bo on the bed, then glances at the door where he smells Ada. His tail wags, but he's a little confused. No one's ever been in bed with he and Ada before. Since Ada's scent seems unconcerned and happy, he simply decides to hop up, curling up near the bottom of Ada's side. The big man takes up much more of the bed than Ada, after all.

Delton finishes his evening routine as efficiently as always. He comes out of the bathroom to see Bo looking blissful and Quothe looking slightly confused, but happy. "I don't, um, splurge on much. But a good bed means a lot." Especially when you weren't the best sleeper in the first place. He slides under the covers, settling so Quothe has room. He's maybe a little closer than he needs to be with Bo. Handing Bo the remote, his lips quirk up, "I trust you to find some suitable bad TV for pur food comas."

“I’m on it.” As soon as he turns the TV on, the Bane of His Existence is on the screen: Say Yes to the Dress, one of Otidea’s favorite shows. Speaking of his sister, he suddenly jumps out of bed. His sister. His father. He needs to check up on them. It’s just a little past 9pm, after all. “Excuse me for a moment,” he apologizes, grabbing his phone and making a phone call. His heart pounds in his head the entire time as he steps away from the bed a bit, tail curled up around his own legs.

“Yoooo,” greets a familiar voice, a feminine one that’s a bit deep and raspy. “Why the fuck are you calling me? Aren’t you busy getting laid? Oh, eww… don’t tell me you called me after tell me about it?”

If only his sister could see the look on his face. “*No*, Oti… get your mind out of the gutter. You know why I’m calling. Did dad eat anything? Did you empty his foley? What was the output? And he took his anti-seizure meds, right? And his heart pills? You know, the amiodarone, isosorbide…”

“Geez, one question at a time, yeah? He…” Threw the plate of food and it hit me in the face… don’t need to tell him that. “He had one of those nutrition drink thingies. And I did empty it, dunno how much. It was like, half the bag was full, though. And he took most of his pills, didn’t want the round pink ones. He didn’t like the color? He’s so fucking odd…”

Of course. The amio is pink. He’s such a fool. Bo makes a mental note to see if a different pharmacy might have the white pills available, because of course his idiot father won’t take a pink pill. “And next time, you need to record what you empty from the foley bag. He just got put on diuretics, and I need to make sure they’re working. His EF is only-“

“Bo,” she says harshly. “Stop. You’re gonna ruin your date if you keep worrying. I got this. Dad is fine. You’re fine. Go have fun.” Her grin can likely be felt through the phone. “Besides, I don’t get your medical lingo. Like I know what the fuck EF means.”

“Ejection fraction,” he begins, as if right now is the time to put on his nurse educator hat. “It’s how much blood is pumped out of your heart, the left ventricle specifically, with each beat. Dad’s echo showed his was down to 45%, probably because of his uncontrolled afib, and he’s got a bit of fluid in his legs, so it’s really important that-“

“Boooo! Stop! I’m too dumb to hear all this. Re. LAX! I’m hanging up now. Go kiss your hot new doctor boyfriend. Worry tomorrow.” She hangs up the phone before Bo can get another word in.

“Ahh… sorry about that,” he mutters, getting back in bed to resume is role as Delton’s personal heater.

Delton curls into Bo's side, not wanting to sprawl out too much to only have to get up again. "You and your sister are doing your best in a hard situation. I can't fault you for that." He nuzzles his head against a broad shoulder, "You're a good man, Bo. Try not to be so hard on yourself." Pot, meet kettle. "It's hard to take care of a sick person, much less a parent. Both you and your sister are doing your best. I don't know if you need to hear it, but I'm proud of you."

"He won't take his damn amiodarone because it's *pink*..." he grumbles. Fuck him. Gods. "Right before we moved, I had to take him to the hospital because he developed new onset afib," he explains. "He wasn't tolerating the diltiazem, so his new cardiologist just switched him over to amio. But godsdammit..." Don't worry about it now. There's nothing you can do. The pharmacy is closed now, anyways. "Thank you..." he sighs, leaning back into the bed a bit. "But I'm just doing what's I'm supposed to be doing, I guess." His arm is around Delton to pull him just a little closer, his sweet words only melting his heart further. "We'll both definitely be awake awhile then. I'm going to be worried about him, but I know there's nothing I can do right now, so..." He places a chaste kiss onto one of those freckled cheeks and smiles. "I'll just enjoy what I can, which is you." And definitely not this TV show about people spending way too much money on wedding dresses.

Delton softly pets Bo's chest, listening intently, "Because you're 'supposed to,' doesn't make it any less hard or mean any less that you're doing it." At the kiss to his cheek, he leans into the touch before turning his mouth to plant one on Bo's lips. He lefts himself close his eyes and wrap his arms around Bo, his kiss soft and sweet. He's not going to push for more. Bo's the one with less experience and he should set the pace.

He would argue, say something about how he's only doing his duty as the only son or whatever. The bare minimum. But the kiss on his lips is too nice. It helps him forget about all of the silly little things he was worrying about or will worry about. So he happily returns it, a warm hand on Delton's cheek to keep him there. When he pulls away, his hand stays where it is, foreheads resting against each other. "This is so nice," he sighs happily "Much better than reality TV." Right now, it's just him and Delton. No work. No sick family. No... whatever Delton's deal is. Bo is sure there is more to learn, but it's only their first night together. He's excited to know more, become closer, connecting with someone in a way he's never had a chance to before this. His feelings are expressed through several more kisses. Under the covers, his tail is trying to fight against the weight of the blanket, flopping weakly back and forth. "Okay, I'm giving you permission to do that whenever you'd like," he says with a laugh. "Seriously."

Delton rubs their noses together, reaching up to stroke his thumb across Bo's cheekbone. "What? Not fond of people giving unwanted opinions to already stressed out brides?" He giggles a little at the sound of Bo's tail trying to escape containment, "Mmm, you have given me unspeakable power with that Bo. You might regret it," he gives Bo a teasing smile. And, with his new permission, he leans in for another kiss.

Every positive neurotransmitter is flooding his brain right now, the rush feeling like a drug-induced high. Perhaps Delton is right. If a simple kiss or ten is able to make him feel like this, then he really does have a power that Bo ought to be afraid of. But that overwhelmingly pleasant feeling isn't strong enough to stop him from providing his opinions about the drivel on TV right now. "I just think it's silly to spend so much on a dress," he says in between kisses. "A dress that you only wear once. I understand that weddings are really special occasions. But seriously! I suppose some people just have money to burn..." Plus, Bo likes simplicity. Practicality. A big sparkly ballgown with diamonds all over it? What's wrong with a simple white dress? If Otidea were here, she'd give him a piece of her mind. But she isn't, so Bo is free to drink his haterade in peace.

"I think it's just a live and let live, lovely," he says between kisses. His hand has traveled up to play with Bo's hair, gently running fingers through it. "I'm more of a simple person, myself, but I think people deserve to feel special on their wedding day. If a dress helps, then I say have at it." His own wedding was a lot. Because the Naïlos have such a big family. But, he managed to fight for simplicity at some points. He drags Bo in for a kiss, getting a little cheeky and tracing the seam of Bo's lips.

“I agree. People can do what they want… I’ll just never get it. I’d rather spend on that money on food. Not surprising, eh?” In the middle of a laugh at himself, he’s pulled into a kiss that’s a bit deeper than any of their previous ones. Bo just smiles against it, pulling away with another laugh and a blush. He isn’t sure if he’ll ever get used to the little terms of endearment. Hopefully he does, because his cheeks getting hot every time he’s called “lovely” might end him one day. “Delton, you’re way too good at this,” he sighs pleasantly, the fingers in his hair making his eyelids heavy. “I feel like the luckiest man alive.” He’s not trying to go any further than this... Why does that make him feel so relieved?

Delton can't help his own grin when they break apart. Bo flushes such a lovely shade, after all. "Hmm, I just have a good partner. Don't give me too much credit, lovely." Is he laying it on a little thick? Probably. But, he's on that new relationship high. "You can fall asleep if you want, Bo. I'll get the clothes. No worries at all," he lightly scratches at Bo's scalp before slowly massaging the base of his horns.

Oh, no. He found the tiefling off button. His horns might be on the smaller side, but he still gets the occasional headache or discomfort from their weight at times. A horn massage is something he think people without them will never understand. If you asked him to describe it, he’d say it’s like he can feel that touch directly in his brain, a sea of relief washing over his entire body in response. Bo sinks down into the bed, eventually only his head peeking out of the covers. It’s like Delton’s hands are pushing all of his worries out of his mind. “Don’t… want to fall asleep,” he yawns. “Because then… then it’s over.” This man, who has been reduced to a puddle by a someone 7 inches shorter than him, is fighting for his life. His eyes blink rapidly as he tries to stay awake, to enjoy this for just a little longer…

Delton continues to massage Bo's horns, smiling at the tiefling's attempts to stay awake. He presses a gentle kiss to the man's lips. "And, when we wake up, we can spend time together again. Plan our next date. Just go to sleep Bo, you don't need to fight it." The tiefling off switch is something Delton is intimately familiar with. Whenever one of the kids had a nightmare or an especially bad day, he'd massage their horns and let them talk or just sit in their feelings. He's just happy to do something that feels good and relieves some pressure. He can't fully comprehend what having horns feels like, but he imagines it is very heavy. The skull is strong, but that extra weight causes stress, even if it doesn't lead to permanant damage. He's heard of some tieflings even having surgery on their horns because it is causing them such severe migraines. What a hard decision that must be to make. "I'll be here in the morning. Sweet dreams..." he hums a little bit, an old lullaby.

I didn’t know… that he could sing. It’s nice… He hears about ten seconds of the lullaby until he finally falls asleep. In his dreams, he sees an empty field. It’s gray and rocky. To Bo, it looks like it might be Thar, the barren wasteland his childhood home was located near. He is simply standing there, looking up at the sky and only seeing a thick layer of smog and clouds. He stares for minutes. Hours. Days. Months. Years. Until eventually, there’s a little ray of sunshine that peaks through. The dream ends there.

☀️

2

Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Bee (Tav: Delton)

traver1111

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Delton watches Bo drift off to sleep, not stopping his humming until he finishes the lullaby. He settles in with his book until the silent timer goes off on his watch for the wash. He does the same until the dryer goes off as well. He slips into bed next to Bo, petting Quothe when he stirs. He cuddles in close, his head resting on Bo's broad chest. He feels warm, safe. When he sleeps, it is dreamless.

On the days he is off, he wakes up at the crack of dawn. It’s a leftover habit from long before his military days, where his father made him get up early to do this or that. Hunting. Yard work. Whatever struck his fancy. Today is no different. This is last day off, so he has already gotten used to his routine of early mornings. Tomorrow is when he gets to throw himself off of it again. Night shift pays better and is typically the only shifts that ever has any openings. It’s the only reason he works them. He glances at his phone. 6:35am. Bo feels Delton before he can even see him, his face buried into his bare chest, warm breath against his skin. He has to physically look down to see him. His chest is a popular spot, it seems… In the peaceful quiet of the morning, he takes a moment to take a good look at the other man, to drink in the reality of a new relationship. A real one. Well, he hopes. Delton doesn’t seem like the kind of guy to treat things like this casually. The first thing Bo fixates on in his bright red hair. He can’t help but touch it, to run his claws through it, just to see if it’s real.

Delton Naïlo is typically a morning person. Halsin - who resembles a bear coming out of hibernation every time he wakes - has complained about Delton's ability to show up at his door at eight, bright eyed and chipper. He thinks the redhead should cool it on the caffeine, but the wood elf realizes that a lot of that is just who Delton is. The caffeine is just meant to get him by because he doesn't sleep. So, when a man who hardly sleeps feels the most comfortable pillow he's had in years start to move around, he can't help the whine he releases. It turns into a sigh when the pillow starts to pet his hair, cuddling in even closer. Never let it be said that Delton is a man who wastes opportunities. And this is an opportunity to rest.

Bo is currently what kids call “internally screaming.” How can one man be so damn adorable?! He almost wants to shuffle around more just to hear that noise again, but he decides to behave and continue his role as the Living Pillow. And what a pillow he is! Because he can also provide head scritches, which he continues to do. His tail is draped across the other man’s hips, the end of it gently flicking up and down. Maybe whenever Delton wakes up, he’ll look rested for once. That would be nice to see.

Delton's eyes drift shut once again, the gentle petting and the weight of Bo's tail lulling him back to sleep. To wake up at a reasonable time. After a full eight hours of sleep. Boletus Zales might just be a miracle worker.

The head petting eventually stops, Bo deciding to read a book on his phone instead. Unfortunately, that requires him to twist away from Delton momentarily so that he can grab it off of the nightstand. How dare he. He’s back within a few seconds, of course, pulling up a the Kindle app on his phone. Seems like a good morning for Brandon Sanderson. The arm not being used to hold up the phone is cradling Delton, claws lazily tracing up and down his back.

Delton grumbles when the petting to his hair stops, but he slowly starts to rouse. The claws lazily trailing up and down his back feel absolutely divine, making him melt into Bo's side. But, he recognizes that it's probably time to get up. He presses a kiss to Bo's shoulder, having apparently moved onto his stomach at some point - probably the point where he got cold because his tiefling pillow moved away for a few moments. "Good morning, lovely. How'd you sleep?" His voice is rough with sleep, a hand reaching up to rub at his eye.

“Hmm? Oh, you’re awake!” he whispers excitedly. His phone is quickly turned off and dropped off to the side somewhere. With both of his arms free, he pulls Delton close to his chest. “I slept very well, you?” Oh my gods… he is way too cute… He’s trying to suppress a grin here, cuteness aggression be damned.

Being bodily pulled on top of Bo makes him blush. The fact that the tiefling can just manhandle him so easily is endearing and attractive and a little embarrassing. Sometimes, he's harshly reminded about how small he really is. Fragile from a youth of abuse. But it wouldn't do to dwell on those thoughts when a handsome man is hugging him. "Very well. Much better than usual." The reply is utterly honest and his countenance reflects that. He looks rested, for once.

Cue a strange little thumping noise from under the covers. “I’m happy to hear that! I…” Rest looks good on you. “… I have today off, and then it’s back to work. So I might have to indulge in you extra, you know.” It’s probably for the best that they don’t advertise that they’re dating at work. Is that even allowed per policy? You’d think Bo would know, being a such a stickler for rules and everything. “I hope that’s okay, ‘lovely’.” Hmm. It sounds better out of his mouth.

Delton cracks an amused smile at the pet name. It doesn't quite fit, coming out of Bo. But, clearly he's trying it out. Maybe he'll find something that suits him better, but, until then, he's free to steal Delton's terms. "Hmm, a sweet man indulging in my company? Whatever shall I do?" He teases. He leans forward to press a kiss to Bo's lips, before leaning back, "That sounds wonderful to me, darling. Don't worry at all." He crosses his arms over Bo's chest and places his chin on top of them, "Speaking of work, we'll have to fill out some paperwork stating our relationship. It'll mean I'm not supposed to be the attending on your patients, pretty much. As long as everything is professional, we should be fine." Delton hasn't known Bo long, but he can already imagine that was a concern he had.

Looking down at the man, he can only conclude that those deep green eyes of his must contain some sort of psychic power as Delton brings up a very valid concern he was fixated on for the past few minutes. “Oh, that’s all?” he responds with a hint of relief. “Thank the gods. I was worried I would have to leave the ER…” He started out in medsurg. For those who are unaware, medsurg is the literal hell of the nursing world. He will never, ever go back to that. “But staying professional will be easy, now that I think about it. The fluorescent lighting and people constantly on death’s door are wonderful anti-romance measures.” Otidea has forced him to sit down and watch a variety of hospital dramas over the years. Bo’s opinion of those should be pretty obvious. At some point, that tail of his has draped itself over the other man, because of course it did.

Delton leans forward to gently rub their noses together. "I figured, lovely. You're a man focused on details - and I imagine not knowing that crucial point would stress you out. And I'd leave before I made you leave, Bo. I've worked overtime in other hospitals. There's a demand for ER docs, after all." Delton snorts at that, "What? Grey's Anatomy doesn't reflect how an actual hospital works? What will we tell the public?" He reaches down to pet Bo's tail, the new weight soothing - like a weighted blanket. His face turns serious now, "But if you ever feel uncomfortable or like there's a conflict of interest or that you can't argue with me about your opinions on the floor, you have to let me know. I don't want this to be a detriment to our patients nor our work to be a detriment to this."

He can't hold back a slightest of scoffs. He'd much rather leave to work somewhere else rather than uproot Delton's much more established career. But how kind of him to have already thought about not only the issue of working together while actively dating, but how he would accommodate him were it to become a problem. He's seen that overflowing compassion as he spoke to his patients and his children. Being a recipient of it is an odd feeling. "I would never let this get in the way of my job," he replies, brushing some hair out of Delton's face. "I promise. One thing I have always admired about you is your dedication to your patients." Too many doctors, nurses too, see their patients as boxes to be ticked. Tasks to be completed. They forget to see their humanity. Well, waking up first thing and talking about something very serious is pretty par for the course when it comes to Bo. "I curious to see more of you in your natural habitat," he teases. "How does Dr. Naïlo spend his mornings?"

"Mmm, this is already an odd morning. Usually I'm off to the park for my run by now." He doesn't make to move whatsoever. He's too comfy where he is. Quothe is still asleep. As soon as he gets up, he'll have to take the rottie out at least. Throw the ball in the fenced in yard at least. But that involves getting off of his very warm, very comfortable tiefling pillow. And that sounds terrible. "But I'm content to just veg if I can stay close to you. Though I'll have to get up to take someone o-u-t and p-l-a-y."

Quothe releases a little snore, laying on his back and his feet occasionally moving like he's running.

"Oh, a man after my own heart," he sighs. "I'm typically up and showered and at the gym by now." But he too is insanely comfortable. The weight of Delton on top of him is just too relaxing. His routine can wait. He smiles at Quothe dream-running, at least, that's what he assumes he's doing. "I would love to accompany you whenever you're ready to take him o- I mean, o-u-t, though." As adorable as the little guy is, he's not quite ready to have him interrupt this.

Delton smiles at Bo, "I'll probably forgo our usual run if you're with us. I don't want you to have to try to run in nice pants, after all." He hums a bit, "I'm sure he'd be happy if you just threw the ball for him. Seems like you could probably send it farther than me." His tone is a little self-deprecating, even though he doesn't mean it to be. He's got a few insecurities about his size and strength. He tries to not let it bother him too much. "But right now I'm happy to just lay here, Bo."

“Another time, of course.” There he goes thinking about the future again. While it’s a positive thought, the idea of merging their morning routines together, he needs to remember that this is only day 2. What did his old therapist used to always say? Slow down and smells the roses? Something like that. Probably. “Perhaps I could,” he replies. “Throw the ball, I mean. But I don’t know, I don’t think he would care about how far it’s thrown…” He’s not sure why it matters, because it doesn’t. What does matter is doing exactly what he said he was going to do, which is, thankfully, what Delton wants to do. While his boyfriend continues to take advantage of his body (as a pillow), Bo decides to check in at home. Oti has already responded to his good morning text, and informed him that their dad has taken his medicine. Since when did she become so reliable…? Little does he know, his sister is just trying to repay a lifetime of care for her. To her, the least she can do is take care of their dad while he’s out enjoying something selfishly for once. “You know, eventually we’re going to need to get up,” he says as he puts his phone away. “Isn’t that awful?” His arms are still cradling the other man closely, seemingly betraying his own words.

Delton laughs quietly, "Bo, Quothe would prefer if I could send it with a rocket launcher. It gives him an excuse to *r-u-n fast.*" His baby is easy to please. Good food, good treats, good pets, and good runs. He sees Bo checking his phone with a little crease between his brows and reaches out to smooth it. "Everything alright at home?" He asks, voice soft. Sure, he doesn't want this to end but family comes first. Wrapping his arms around Bo's neck, he sighs, "It'll be awful to leave this cocoon, yes. I'm rather warm and comfortable, taking advantage of such a nice pillow."

He laughs in a way that seems practiced. "Goodness, you're going to have to provide me with a list of words I'll need to spell out as not to excite him." His eyes close as his face relaxes at Delton's touch. "Yes, everything is alright. My sister informed me she gave my dad his medicine. I worry about that when I'm not there to do it, because a lot of the time, he fights it... and my sister is a lot less pushy than I am." Otidea is a people pleaser. Bo is too, in a way, but not when it comes to this. He is fine with being cursed at, being hit, being the "bad guy" for the benefit of someone else. Otidea is not. "Happy to report the pillow is still able to act as a pillow," he jests. "Self-heating and everything. And it can also do this." His claws scratch right behind Delton's slightly-pointed ears. Another adorable feature of his, he thinks. Mostly shelled, but ending in the cutest little points. And they get pink so easily. Is that an odd thing to think is cute?

Delton huffs out his own laugh, clocking that Bo's laugh seems a little forced, "I'm being a little overly cautious, I admit. I just...don't want this to end." His voice is utterly sincere. He doesn't want to shatter this little cocoon of cozy warmth and safety. "It's not easy to deal with someone who struggles to accept your help. I admire the both of you for your strength in that." He knows he's a terrible person when he's sick. He just wants to curl up in his bed, be left alone, and wait for death. Delton opens his mouth to comment, but the scratching behind his ears makes him release a little moan. His cheeks go pink at that, but he can't help but lean into the contact. He's not beating the elven ear sensitivity rumors.

I don't, either. Being selfish is a foreign concept to Bo, the perpetual caregiver that he is. So he smiles at the acknowledgement. It's the sort of struggle only fellow caregivers could understand. Morelo Zales had never been a good patient, having never been to the doctor his entire life until his very first seizure two years ago. He likely has the same mindset as Delton. That's why he uses all of the energy he can manage to lash out. His current train of thought comes to a halt, derailing towards something else that couldn't be more different once he hears that moan. His previous partners had all been human. He forgot that Elven ears are known for being quite sensitive, and that must extend to half-elves as well. The reaction to what he meant as a simple little ear scratch awakens the faintest spark of desire within him. It's not something he plans to pursue, but it's a reminder that he's a hot-blooded man like most others. Delton didn't tell him to stop. In fact, he's leaning into it, like he wants more. "Your ears are very cute," he comments. "But I just realized they might be more sensitive than mine, though. Do you want me to stop?"

Delton's embarrassed at his reaction, unable to control himself after just the slightest touch to his ears. He only blushes more at the admission that Bo finds his ears cute. Maybe that's a little bit of an odd observation, but he finds it endearing. "No-No, it's fine. Feels good. As long as...it doesn't go any further, please continue." It's not that Bo isn't attractive. He's very attractive. But Delton needs time for feelings like that to develop. He's not quick to fall into bed with anyone because he generally needs time to even think of a partner like that. Ambrose had made it a problem, pestered until Delton gave in. He promised to never do that again. "But, yes, they are s-sensitive."

“Then let me know if I do anything you find uncomfortable.” He sees it as repayment for the horn massage, of course. His claws are more focused on the skin just behind them, rather than the ears themselves. Eventually, he applies a light pressure to his temples using the pad of his callused thumbs, moving in slow circles. Curiosity gets the better of him, as tactile a person as he can be in private. Soon enough, his thumbs follow the path of the upper edges of his ear, stopping at the points. He withdraws before he’s tempted to roll the tips between his fingers. The entire time, his eyes are scanning Delton’s face for any signs that he’s going too far.

Delton's eyes closes at the light pressure and he sighs at the massage to his temples. But, he gasps when Bo's fingers run up the shell of his ear and he reaches up to gently grasp his hands. "That feels very good, lovely. But I think we should stop before we start something neither of us are ready for."

“I’m sorry,” he says with a smile. “I got carried away. Sometimes I’m too curious for my own good.” Delton’s grasp is gentle in warning more than it is restrictive, so he moves his hands away and wraps his arms around the other man in silent apology. Something neither of us are ready for, huh? He isn’t wrong. And hearing it from another man? A wave of relief washes over him. “You are just so cute, especially when I get to look at you up close.”

Delton goes crimson at those words, burying his head in Bo's chest. "...Not used to such sweetness. Not since Theo..." The ex-who-must-not-be-named was not a man for sweetness. He was really just a bastard. What you settle for when you're lonely.

“That’s such a shame,” he replies with a hint of disappointment in his voice. “You are deserving of it.” Bo can’t help but grin as the man uses his chest as a place to hide. Seriously, the cuteness aggression Delton triggers in him is through the roof. He takes one hand to idly push any of his loose hairs back behind his ear, taking care not to touch it directly. “I am not used to this either, all of your kindness. So I guess we are both swimming through unfamiliar waters.” Sweetness is not often given to a man like him, so tall and imposing, demon-like in appearance. Nevertheless, he craves it just like anyone else.

"You deserve it as much as me," he mumbles into Bo's chest, his ears as red as his cheeks. He doesn't understand how anyone could not be sweet to Bo. The man is like the tiefling equivalent of a Great Bernard. Sliding his arms around Bo, he squeezes tightly for a few moments before pulling back. "Unfortunately, I think I have to be the responsible one and say we probably should get up. Face the day and all."

“You’re absolutely right,” he sighs, faking a tone of utter disappointment as he sits up. He stretches his arms toward the ceiling and yawns. It’s rare for him to spend so much time in bed, a lovely cocktail of anxiety and compulsions never allowing him to relax for that long. “Since my clothes are clean, mind if I use your shower real quick before getting dressed?” The thought of putting clean clothes on an un-showered body? Ugh. “Don’t worry, I’m very good at taking very short ones.”

Delton's humming a little tune as he stands, Quothe already up and ready to be let out. He's glad that it's raining today - if the little pitter patter on the roof can be believed - because he knows Quothe won't want to stay out for too long. Waterdhavian rains are cold, after all. He's grabbing his robe to shrug on over his pajamas. "Take your time. I'll bring your clothes up. There's clean towels in the closet, lovely." First things first, he lets Quothe out. As usual, he looks betrayed at the fact that is raining, as if Delton can somehow change the weather. But it makes him going out relatively quick. He quickly darts into the bedroom to put Bo's clothes on the bed, folded neatly. Then, he starts cooking Quothe's breakfast, something he worked out with the dog's veterinarian.

Delton tells him to take his time, so he does. Doctor’s orders, right? Of course, Bo’s definition of “taking his time” is showering for a whopping ten whole minutes instead of five. He figures his sense of smell is related to his heritage, because it has always been better than most. Merely opening the bottle of Delton’s body wash is enough to make him think he’s in the bathroom with him, automatically making his tail wag. It whacks the plastic shower liner a few times before it calms down a bit. After his shower, he slowly peeks his head out, even though Delton has spent well over twelves hours seeing him shirtless. With the towel wrapped tightly around his waist, he grabs his clothes as quickly as possible and changes. By the time he comes back out, he can smell food cooking. He happily follows the scent of it, hot on its trail, just to find Delton in his kitchen putting said food into a dog bowl. Oh my gods, he cooks for his dog… And here Bo is, tail wagging like mad, as if he were the dog excited to eat breakfast.

Delton starts slightly at Bo's entrance, having shed the robe now that he's not standing on his cold porch. "Oh, I can whip up some eggs and toast for breakfast. Sorry, I always feed Quothe first because he can't feed himself." The Rottweiler is chowing down with gusto, happy at his meal. He's never been picky, but Delton’s glad he can afford such a diet for his puppy. "There's also fresh fruit cut up in the fridge, if you want a snack while I cook?" He says, a little hesitantly.

Bo is squatting low to the ground, tail wagging high in the air as he watches Quothe eat. “Hmm? Oh, no need to apologize! I just followed my nose, and I’m thoroughly impressed you made something rather appetizing for little Quothe here.” He clasps his hands together so he isn’t tempted to bother the dog while he’s chowing down. “And that would be very sweet of you to do, Delton. I’ll wash your dishes in return! It’s one of my special skills, actually,” he jokes lightheartedly. Bo is a freak of nature who enjoys washing dishes.

Delton props his hips against the counter, just watching the two for a moment. "I worked out a meal plan with his vet. I...just want to give him the best life that I can and can afford it..." He's empty nesting, he knows. He's maybe a little young for it, but it's true all the same. He goes and grabs the cut fruit from the fridge, setting it on the counter with two plates. Then, he starts to get the ingredients for eggs and toast. "How do you like your eggs?" Now, if that doesn't sound like a bad pickup line... He has to stop himself from physically cringing.

He was so enamored with Quote eating, he forgot to comment about the one food he isn't a huge fan of. Raw fruit. He stands up and pops an apple slice in his mouth, chewing at it with a neutral face. "Oh, sunny side up. The runnier the better," he replies after a slow swallow. "As many as you're willing to spare, but I don't want to clear your fridge." He laughs a bit nervously after saying that. "Thank you in advance." Then he walks over to place a gentle kiss on Delton's cheek, stopping himself from lingering as long as he'd like.

Delton clocks the lack of excitement over the fruit and says, "I'll eat the fruit. You don't need to feel like you have to, Bo." The man's usually so excited about food. It's not hard to realize that the fruit isn't his favorite. He starts making the eggs, but his face goes beet red again the kiss, not used to his affections being so casually returned. "It's no bother, darling. I'm glad to be able to do it for you." He should've done dipped toast. That, at least, takes more brain power.

File that away in reason number "who knows" as to why he likes Delton so much: he can't hide a blush. He loves an easy tell. His is his own stupid tail, so it's nice when he's not the only one easier to read than a picture book. Quothe is done eating, so Bo determines that now is a good time to play with him while Delton cooks ~~for this other dog~~ him. Crouched down on the floor once again, he coos this and that at him. Bo doesn't have a "baby talk" voice, everything he says coming out in the same low baritone. "Hey, little guy. Did you like breakfast? I bet you did. I totally would have eaten it, too. Sorry it's raining outside. I promise as soon as the sun shine, I'll throw your ball as hard as I can. I bet you can run really fast, yeah?" Quothe's cheeks are in his hands while he speaks, Bo's claws almost the color of his fur as he gives the dog some wonderful scritches under his ears.

2

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Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Bee (Tav: Delton)

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Alvilda (Tav: Helaena+)

alvilda_

Bee (Tav: Delton)

traver1111

Close

Quothe likes this new man in his Ada's life. His hands are good for pets and he seems kind. He also makes Ada smile. Ada deserves to be happy. They all deserve to be happy, so they can play and run and have fun. He approves of the tall man. He should stay.

Delton's heart clenches as Bo plays with Quothe. He's a sucker for a man good with pets and a man good with babies. He shouldn't even entertain the thought of Bo with a baby. He might spontaneously combust. The redhead cracks several eggs into a pan, letting them cook only so the whites are done, leaving the yolk quite runny, He starts on the toast as the eggs sizzle, getting butter and jam and honey down for them to choose from. Popping a piece of apple in his mouth, he removes the eggs from the heat, putting two eggs on his own plate and the rest on Bo's.

He stops the doggy lovefest once he hears the plates being set up on the table. Bo gives the little big baby one last pet before pulling away to go wash his hands before eating. 30 seconds. “Thank you very much, Delton,” he says in gratitude, complete with a little bow of his head. When he sits at the table, his eyes catch the writing on one of the jars of jam. He picks it up with curiosity written all over his face. “Is this… hmm. Is this in Infernal?” he asks, spinning the jar around. He had no idea products with labels written in Infernal even existed. Why would they? To him, it’s a language on its way to becoming obsolete, the Hells being a place that is not only hard to get to, but extremely isolationist.

Delton, before he sits down, has to wipe up the counter and wash his hands. Doing it that way forces his mind to remember that he did it. A way of tricking himself into not having a compulsion. As he sits, Bo asks the question, "Oh, yeah. I get it shipped in from Elturel. The kids like it because it's spicy and sweet. You might too. It's a tiefling-owned company." One of the first things Theo and he did when taking in tieflings was to start taking Infernal classes. Because, even though his kids were fluent in Common, Internal is their mother tongue. Denying them the ability to speak to their parents in Infernal is like denying Delton the right to speak Elvish. It would be silly and wrong.

He furrows his brow a bit as he examines the writing that he can't read at all. "Huh. That's pretty neat," is all he says before opening it up and spreading a bit of it on his toast. When he takes a bite, his eyes widen slightly, and his tail wags rapidly back and forth. "Thaf preddy gud!" he exclaims, voice muffled. Truly good tastes make him forget his manners temporarily. The rest of the toast is demolished, Bo the hungriest first thing in the morning. He lets out a satisfied little sigh that sounds just a bit forlorn towards the end of it. "I can't speak nor read it. I'm pretty sure my mother could..." But why didn't she ever teach me? "I'll definitely be ordering some. Elturel, you said?" But then he is reminded that, yep, still can't read it, so he doesn't even know what the company is called. Bo silently takes his phone out of his pocket to take a picture of the label.

Delton's laugh is more of a giggle at Bo's excitement, making him try to smother it. He's not a teenage girl, after all. "I'm glad you like it. I, unfortunately, don't have a very high heat tolerance so I can't really indulge in it, but it's Lia's favorite topping for toast." He pauses when Bo says he can't read or speak Infernal at all, blinking in surprise. "...Would you like to learn?"

"... do you know it?" If Delton does know Infernal, he's not sure why it's a surprise to him. He fostered three tiefling children. He's the kind of endlessly compassionate soul who would learn a language just for his children. He's plenty intelligent, so languages probably come easy to him. He's also angry. A half-elf can speak it, but he, a tiefling, cannot? The only person who could tell him why he doesn't even know his own people's language is dead and gone. He takes a bite of his deliciously runny eggs to lighten his mood.

"I'll be right back." Delton gets up and goes to his office, looking through the shelves until he finds the Level 1 book he was looking for. He comes back and places it on the table, next to Bo. "I can help, at least a little. I'm no language teacher, but Theo and I learned when we found out we were going to have tiefling foster kids for a long-term placement."

His look of mild anger melts away into utter fondness. Is it possible for eyes with black sclera to look this sweet and kind? Bo does not think so, because he cannot see them from outside his own warped point of view. “Thank you, Delton. Really,” he replies. “I’ll give this a look over later.” He flips through the pages, looks a little apprehensive. “I only spoke Common my entire life. I wonder how feasible it is for me as a 30 year old man to learn a new language…”