Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

It all started on an especially sunny day where the sky was clear and, if we want to be extra cliche, the birds were chirping. Everything was going so well that the record for least fights in one day was about to be broken in Night Raven College! Truly exciting! However, this was due because, not only was it a sunny day, it was an excruciating hot day.

The heat consumed the school so much that everyone felt like if they even lifted a finger their whole body would melt, which probably makes the whole breaking the record for least fight less impressive due to it not being caused by willingness but more of laziness. 

With a heat wave going around the school, any free time seemed a particularly good time to get popsicles or ice cream or really anything refreshing. So in between classes, every student could be found digging in the ice cream freezer or the cold food aisle in Sam’s shop. The latter being exactly where four first years were waiting in line after classes to finally catch a break. 

“Ughhh, could this line be any longer?!” Ace complained as he pulled on his collar to reduce the stuffiness he feels with this heat. 

“Literally, by this rate all the ice cream will be sold out! We should have made Yuu and Grim get their own ice cream,” Epel pouts, cursing Yuu and Grim for staying in an air conditioned room, “And don’t even get me started on Deuce. I can’t believe you totally folded when he asked you to take his place!” 

“HUH, I did no such thing!” Ace denied.

Sebek, who was standing beside him, snorted and responded when hearing the lie. “You absolutely did! We played a fair game and Deuce just had to bat his eyelashes to get out of it!” 

“It’s true! Ace’s heartbeat was rising above its regular rate!” The signature Shroud smirk appeared on Ortho’s face while exposing Ace to the world. After a “Not true!!” response from Ace the other three kept teasing him about his embarrassing crush on the Spade. 

Suddenly, around the corner another blue flame haired student arrived and stopped on his tracks when seeing the long line. He wasn’t the only one that stopped, as other students seemed to have noticed the 3rd year as well. His unique appearance is hard to ignore after all. 

Students began to gawk at the housewarden, not in a judgemental way but in shock, mainly for two reasons. Reason number one: It is already rare enough to see the Ignihyde Housewarden outside of his dorm, but the fact that he came out by himself, in what he would call the “peak time of social interaction” in person, was truly shocking!

Reason number two: Not only was he out with what seemed willingly (willingly meaning he did not seem to be threatened) but he also wasn’t covered in his usual sweater! Meaning it was easier to spot his hair in the first place because a hood wasn’t hiding it. Instead of the big sweater, he was in a plain black beater-shirt and his hair was up in a ponytail, totally out of character! The rest of Night Raven continued to stare at the rare sight. Why is he lowkey attractive?

Ortho, fortunally for his brother, seemed to notice him and called out, “Brother over here!”

Hearing Ortho, Idia looked towards his direction and lit up while whispering under his breath something about “finding an easy cheat code.” 

Idia walked over to the small group and the four of them were not immune to the curiosity all the other students seemed to have. Of course Ace has never been one to beat around the bush, so when Idia arrived where they were, Ace immediately asked, “Dude! What with the new look?” 

He asked with a smile but the volume (and the fact that it’s Idia) made the older jump. 

Startled, he replied, “H-Huh? Oh.. W-well it's too hot to wear a sweater in this weather, don’t you think?” Idia really wanted to avoid this conversation or at least use his tablet to speak but considering these are his brother's friends he should really be getting used to talking to them like this. 

“HAH! As if that's ever stopped you before! Plus, it’s a shocker seeing you out at all!” Sebek exclaimed. Very loudly.

Ortho hummed, “Was everything alright back in the dorm? Don’t tell me the AC is broken!? That won’t go well with all our devices…” 

“Ah, busted… nah, don’t worry about that. A-Actually, it seems to be quite the opposite problem for someone..,” The first years tilt their heads in confusion. “W-Well in truth.. I invited Azul over because of the better weather conditions in our dorm. Yk, Merfolk get totally nerfed in the heat. Seriously, what's the point of being so OP if some heat bothers you.. A-Anyway Ignihyde has cooler temperatures than other dorms so yk, might as well invite him.. However, Azul got a bit too chilly so he took my sweater, the reason it disappeared from my inventory...”

After Idia ended his explanation with a sigh, the four first-years who share a brain cell were also sharing a thought along the lines of: ‘You're saying it like it's a normal thing but… why didn’t he go to his own dorm?! And don’t octopuses thrive in the cold?’ 

After a few seconds of silence Ace spoke up, “So, basically, what I’m hearing is that you let him take YOUR sweater? Voluntary? The same one you never take off and take everywhere? Not to mention let him in YOUR room and, might I mention, the one that you never let anyone else in? Man, you’re so down baad.”

But before Idia could ask what he meant, the line moved to their turn, reminding Idia the original reason for his side quest. He just hoped that Azul wouldn't be pissed at him for taking such a long time getting his snacks.

(Ortho noticed that the snacks his brother bought were not ones that he favors. He makes a note to ask later).

Meanwhile, in another place completely different from the campus, Azul was left alone with thoughts while he waited for Idia to return. Truthfully, Azul didn’t know when it became routine for them to keep making time for each other.

Before he knew it, it seemed after Board Game club Idia was inviting him over every time and he was agreeing the exact same amount. It has come to the point where neither of them ask anymore and they just expect to hang out together. It was such a habit that Azul didn’t question it because, well, why would he? It's a good thing they have going on. Why ruin it with complications?

However, recently the tweels kept being this agitating, grating voice when Azul just wants to sit back and relax and enjoy his evening. Floyd would keep having a growing grin on his face whenever Azul even mentions Ignihyde and Jade would have an identical smirk while asking him, “Again? How consistent.”

Surely, this was not strange behavior. It's pretty common to wait in your friend’s dorm alone while said friend is out buying snacks, which, it's important to note, is something completely out of character but Azul would argue that it was just because he was adamant in staying in the paradise of air conditioning. Nothing less, nothing more. 

Currently, while analyzing his newly formed friendship, Azul was sitting in the luxury of Idia’s huge beanbag chair, in Idia’s room, wearing Idia’s sweater, playing a game on Idia’s console that Idia taught him not long ago; all while enjoying the comforting scent of, you will never guess, Idia. However, if anyone asked, Azul would point out it's all about context. What else was he supposed to do while waiting for Idia to return? Stand in a chilly room, bored and not breathing at all? Plus, enjoying a scent is all the product of being in a familiar space and it's not like he is lingering in it. He’s not. 

Leaning further into the beanbag, he sank into his chair while the game started to load. As he waited, his fingers clung tighter into the end of the sleeves, which were too long on him. The sleeves bunched up at the end of Azul's hands, making only the tip of his fingers visible. The glow of the screen reflected faintly in his glasses as the loading screen bar progressed.

After a moment the game finally chimed, signaling that the loading was complete and Azul turned his attention to the small screen in his hands. He began to play the game as he easily dodged what needed to be dodged and collected what he needed to collect, basically with muscle memory at this point.

Azul remembered when he first played this game, he truthfully didn't play at all. Idia did most of the playing while he taught Azul. How could he learn when being distracted by Idia putting his hands on top of Azul’s to guide him, making the hand size difference so apparent. As long, pale fingers guided his in using the controls and heat radiating beside him as shoulders were touching. In the end, Azul didn't remember a single rule on how to play. So the second time, he had to learn by trial and error to figure out the controls. However, Azul still remembers the warm weight on top of his hands wherever he plays. It never fails to make Azul flush.

His focus breaks when recollecting that moment and there is soon a “GAME OVER” on the screen.

‘Crap. I didn’t save my checkpoint…”

Azul lets out a defeated sigh and sets down the console. Just as that happens he hears the door opening. Azul looks up from where he is sitting to see the owner of the room close the door behind him. Idia walks in the room with a bag full of snacks in his hands he was sent out to buy. Enough to last them the rest of the day, something Azul would usually scorn at but Idia has a way of influencing Azul.

“Phew.. the heat out of the dorms is no joke. Not to mention there were waaay too many normies out there! You own me big time btw, Azul!” 

Azul immediately schooled his expression to a teasing one, although a faint pink remained at the tip of his ears. “Took you long enough,” he replied “I was beginning to think the crowd swallowed you whole.. fufu” 

Idia laughed nervously, shuffling further into the room where Azul was sitting. He throws the plastic bag containing all the snacks on Azul's lap and sits down on the floor beside the grey haired boy instead of his usual gaming chair. Both will ignore that fact. Idia releases a sigh as he sits down, relieved to be out of the heat from the real world, running a hand through his hair pushing his bangs back. The heat outside was awful, the 30 minutes Idia was out was enough for sweat to damp his hair making his hair stay in place when he finished brushing it back. “Anyway, I’m back so lets continue our game on!,” Idia grins and looks up at Azul, tilting his head when he doesn’t hear a response, “hm, Azul?” 

There, Azul was frozen mid rummaging through the snacks, flushed at Idia's appearance. ‘Why does he look so…so.. good..’ is the only thought on Azul’s mind.

His brain shortcuts, surprised with that unexpected notion that crossed his mind. He forcefully tore his gaze away as his grip on the bag tightened. Azul cleared his throat, “Right. Sorry I just remembered something I must do later. Anyway, what do you think we should play?” Fixing his glasses, he turns off the console he was using earlier and tosses it to the side. Azul grabs his favorite chips from the plastic bag as Idia starts rambling about a new two player game that was designed by an artist that worked on one of his favorite anime.

This was definitely not good for Azul’s heart. Not a lot of people get to see this version of Idia, his cheeks flushed from the heat and careless of his appearance. ‘Wait, did Idia go out in that tank top?..’ Azul grimaced at the thought. Usually Idia is shy and reclusive, adamant in avoiding people at all costs. Azul knows this better than anyone, after all he had to work hard to break through those walls. That Idia is completely different from the one right now. His eyes are lit up as he rambles on about how he played all of the games from the same company, his favorite and least favorite, all without taking breaks from excitingly setting up the video game. And oh boy does Azul find it soooo endearing.

“–and don’t get started on the graphics! Heard they spent months just trying to get the right code. They spent so much time coding and editing the hair on the models they were about to scrap the whole project because of the cost! And the soundtrack is actually insaaanee… It changes keys completely just per choice and apparently the different endings all have different songs!–oh, hang on, I think this controller is dead.”

Suddenly, Idia leans forward and his hand reaches over Azul to grab the charger, catching Azul off guard. This breaks him out of his thoughts and Azul sucks in his breath when he realizes Idia’s face is unnecessarily close to his own. Close enough to feel his breath.

 Azul jolts back quickly in embarrassment, however, he uses a bit too much force that he falls completely back onto the beanbag. His hair is suddenly framing his face and his glasses are crooked from the sudden movement, appearance totally disheveled. His heart beats too quickly for his liking. What is going on with his heart?! 

​​​​Idia freezes mid-reach.

“Oh–! S-sorry,” he blurts, realizing his mistake. The charger dangles uselessly from his fingers as he stares anywhere but Azul. “I…uh..personal space. Yeah. Forgot about that. My bad.” 

Before awkward silence fills the room, Azul clears his throat and sits back up, “It’s quite alright, I was just caught off guard. Let's play the game..? No?” And while Azul hoped that he at least sounded unfazed, he was actually quite flustered. Azul’s face was flushed a soft pink and he couldn’t exactly look at Idia in his eyes. He couldn’t help but feel a bit embarrassed from his brash action. Continuing to look down on the floor, Azul doesn't catch that Idia was staring at him. He also couldn’t see Idia’s hand reaching out toward his face, not until Azul felt Idia’s fingers graze his temple. With the cool touch, Azul eyes shot up and met with a golden pair. Idia’s eyes were unusually soft and once again Azul’s breath was sucked in. Idia then gently straightens the younger boy’s glasses and withdraws his hand. However, that doesn’t seem to break eye contact. Instead, the two housewarden find themselves leaning toward each other, breaking eye contact as they slowly close their eyes. When suddenly—

Ringgggg. Ring. Ring.

And just as two lips were going to meet, a phone rang. Abruptly and loud. However, not as abruptly as Idia jumping back with enough momentum to roll once over. With the trance broken, Azul jumped in his seat and a deep crimson color rose up his neck to his cheeks. Ringgggg. Ring. Ring— the ringing didn’t stop, drawing the attention from the two to find it. The shrill cut through the air until Azul found it and discovered it was, indeed, his phone. Azul suddenly got an urge to curse all technology to never exist. As soon as he gets to his dorm he’s throwing it into a tank or something. 

“H-hello?” Azul stutters uncharacterically. The person on the other side of the phone starts talking. While Azul is on his phone, Idia picks himself up and tries to act totally unaffected. Key word: tries.

‘WHAT THE HELL JUST HAPPENED!!! THIS IS BAD, WHAT TYPE OF SICK ROM-COM IS THIS! THAT SCENE CAME STRAIGHT OUT OF A MANGA. WHAT A TOTAL CLICHE TO INTERRUPT MID KIS– WAIT… WAITWAITWAIT!! NO WE WERE NOT GOING TO K–K–KI–KIS–AHH I CANT SAY IT I CANT SAY IT…JUST VOTE JUST VOTE IK IMA BE OUT…okay… first lets calm down, inner me.,’ Idia breathes in, ‘oof what a mess…We can just…idk..just pretend this never happened!! I mean what was even going to happen? Haha yea…Nothing was about to happen…’ 

Idia’s thoughts were interrupted when Azul suddenly spoke up, “Um, sorry but it looks like I have to go. Jade just called me to inform me they’re having trouble at the lounge..” 

Total lie, by the way. Azul truthfully couldn’t pay attention to a single thing Jade was saying. He just knew that he was gonna do something stupid if he stayed any longer so he needed to leave immediately.

“E-eep, r-right, I get it.. Dudee…” Idia replies after being startled out of his thoughts. Not without having other thoughts of course, ‘DUDE?? DUDE???? Did I seriously just call him dude??? SOMEBODY SEDATE ME!! That's it. I need a final boss to spawn rn and just kill me. My life is oveerr.’

After a few more minutes of silence, and awkwardness that they couldn't break, Azul finally realizes that he needs to move his feet. First looking for any items he arrived with before remembering he only brought his phone, Azul moves to the door, opens the door, nods a farewell, and leaves. 

After a few minutes, Idia is still standing where he was left. His brain was completely broken for a so-called genius. Finally, Idia starts moving, heading toward his bed. As he reaches the end of the bed he lifts the covers up and slides under, like a worm. Soon he’s completely covered by the blankets. Idia takes in a sharp breath, and at the same pace lets out a scream loud enough to wake the souls of the dead. Screaming into his mattress thinking truly: His life is totally over.

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‘Wait… he still has my jacket…’

---

After a few days from that event, Idia and Azul mentally agreed to never address what had occurred between them. (Super surprising from the Night Raven College Students, right? After all, we all know how well they communicate before a disaster happens). Nothing really changed between them in their opinion so it worked out better that way anyway. However, to an outsider's point of view that wasn’t exactly the truth. Nobody could exactly pinpoint when or what specifically changed but it seemed that these days it was very uncommon to see one without the other. 

First, Idia and Azul started arriving at the Board Game Club together, meaning, if you put the puzzle pieces together, they were together before clubs started! They already hang out after clubs so that means the two are hanging out the entirety of their free time! It makes sense to hang out after but isn't it a bit much to hang out before?

Secondly, it seems that Azul has officially become Idia's social shield. One time Cater came up to greet Idia, which spooked the introverted boy when one of the top three extroverts in school was near him, but he was not alone. Azul, who was beside Idia when this was happening, was quickly put between them as Idia sped to hide behind him. This was not the only time, now anytime a sneak social attack happens Azul is the one Idia hides behind. What was even more odd was that Azul didn’t seem to even notice or mind. Even coaxing Idia out of his shell by being his official conversation clutch. 

And while this was apparent to the school, it seemed that Idia truly didn’t notice that he had an official safe space. On the other hand, Azul didn’t seem to notice he didn’t have any space. 

Walking down the halls, students regularly saw a six foot man grabbing to the sleeve of a 2nd year housewarden— Can't Idia at least walk without clinging to Azul! Students that were in the cafeteria would sometimes see the duo waiting in line, which would have been normal. Except for the fact that Idia was leaning his whole body weight onto Azul, hanging on like a rag doll! They were basically spooning each other at that point! What is this, the Titanic!? Not to mention, on a more personal level little habits become common occurrences between Azul and Idia. Lingering touches, longing glances, and shy smiles– too OOC! 

Whenever Jade pointed all of that out to Azul, he looked at the eel like he was crazy, genuinely not understanding what he was getting at, in true oblivious fashion. However, while Azul didn’t understand the observation of outsiders he did notice little actions from Idia when they were completely alone. He especially noticed that Idia is definitely not good for his heart but he would rather eat the most fattening food than admit to that. 

From recent observations, it seems that Idia has been quite… nicer, Azul supposes. Holding doors for him, helping him with homework when Azul didn’t even ask, and even one time during clubs, a game piece fell under table between Idia and Azul and when Azul went to the side to grab the stray object, he lifted his head that was bound to hit the corner of the table if it were not for Idia who used his hand to cover the hard wood. What was weirder was that no teasing remarks came out from Idia, Azul would have expected at least something about being clumsy but Idia just continued their conversation like nothing happened. 

And it’s not like Idia doesn’t tease Azul anymore, after all we’re still talking about Night Raven students. For example, Azul accidentally walked into a pole while walking to Sam’s shop with Idia and Idia straight up laughed at his face, bringing it up for the rest of the day.

He would have kept using it to make fun of Azul, but Azul started giving Idia the silent treatment.

Originally all these actions would fly over Azul’s head because he did not really notice. Until recently, it had occurred to Azul that Idia has formed a new habit that Azul has grown quite used to.

Initially, maybe the first 4-5 times, he barely batted an eye to it but after the 6th time Azul realized that Idia fixes his glasses for him. Azul never asked for his help and it seemed that Idia just did it automatically, smoothly using a finger to nudge the glasses back to place. It’s important to mention that this started happening after the, well, almost kiss accident, which caused Azul to flush when realizing. 

Azul doesn’t think it's meant to be something meaningful, just a reaction. 

The first time it happened, outside of the moment that shall not be remembered, Azul recalled it was, of course, in the club room. Azul was so concentrated in the game that he was unconsciously leaning close to the table, causing his glasses to slip slightly. Suddenly, a sense of deja vu waved over the octopus as Idia reached up and nudged the glasses in place. However, unlike last time, there was no lingering of fingertips or intense eye contact. It was quick and thoughtless. Before Azul could say something, Idia spoke up and said, “ba-ba-ba-bingo, I win! Take the L!!”

“HUH?!?!” Azul looked down on the board and forgot completely about what just happened because of the frustration.

In the end Azul didn’t think much of it after that. Afterall, it was a helpful gesture and it worked out when his hands weren’t in use. Like when he is in the middle of fighting a boss battle and couldn’t afford to use a hand in the middle of playing a video game. It became second nature to let Idia fix them. Again and again. Azul was wondering if he was letting down his guard too much around the Ighnihyde Housewarden. Even whenever they had a sleep over, Azul would flop backwards onto the bed while waiting for Idia to finish getting ready for bed but not without struggling to keep himself awake after a long day. 

When Idia would finally return he would let a lopsided smile creep onto his face as he views Azul comfortably dozing off on his bed. He would then walk up and grab Azul’s glasses to put them on the side table. Again, another kind gesture Azul didn’t know how to interpret but stayed in his mind regardless. 

‘Maybe I am reading too much into this…’ Azul thinks.

Currently, Azul is in the Mostro Lounge sipping on a fruity drink, his head in his hands. The Octoville trio are the only ones left in the Lounge after closing the cafe for the day. While Azul has finished his work, the only thing left is some paperwork in his office, Jade was still polishing some cups near the bar. Meanwhile, Floyd was pretending to help by leaning on a stool and spinning another. Something he would have been scolded for had Azul been paying attention. Nevertheless, there was comfortable silence around the friends while a Jazz record played softly in the background.

‘Maybe we hang out too much these days… Has our personal boundaries shifted?.. Let's see, I have known Jade and Floyd for quite a while, we are often all seen together. And while Floyd does have no respect for my personal space it’s mostly to annoy or irritate me, so that doesn’t count. Plus it's different with Idia. With Jade, well, If he ever did something kind without a motive, I would send him to the infirmary immediately for possession or something..’ 

The more Azul contemplated, the more irritated he got. Azul didn’t like situations he couldn’t read clearly.

As his drink started nearing the end, Azul chewed on the straw without paying full attention. Fidgeting the straw in circles, Azul accidently rose himself too high and the straw flicked the corner of the cup shoving it out of his mouth onto the floor. Snapping the housewarden out of his thoughts he looks down and lets out a frustrated sign. He grabbed a napkin and went down to pick up his straw and clean the small mess of droplets. 

Once he is back up, he places the trash on the plate from his drink. He sits back down and realizes his glasses are crooked and truly, Azul didn’t know what he was doing until it was too late. Or more like what he wasn’t doing. Since, he just waited.

And waited.  

Nothing happened. 

Azul blinked and finally realized. He lifted his own hand and pushed his glasses back up in their place. On the other side of the counter Jade seemed to notice the pause and with his signature smirk asked, “How unusual, why hesitate?” 

“What?”

Floyd, who is dramatically slumped on a chair, responded, “You froze like you were waiting for something–” 

“More like someone.” Jade coughed out, interrupting his brother, which did not bother him because both of the eels broke into knowing smirks.

“What on earth are you talking about? I did no such thing. Both of you are imagining things, surely. I can take care of myself.” 

“I have no doubt you can. However, it seems these days you do not need to. Don’t you agree, Floyd?”

“Yeaaahh, I’m worried Azul might end up boring if he’s babied too much!”

Azul slammed his hands on the bar and stood up, “Ugh, you two are insufferable! I am going to my office, please do not disturb me if it is not important!” 

As Azul stomps away, the tweels glance at each other with amusement. Surely they will have to bring up this topic later. This will not get boring any time soon.

Cleaning up after Azul’s drink, Jade was heading to organize all the clean dishes and then he could leave. Floyd decides that he should leave now because he’s getting bored. That boredom, however, was quickly going to disappear as a certain blue-flamed hair housewarder walked in. Spooked at seeing the twins, aka avoid them at all cost as Idia likes to call them, he jumps but it was too late to turn back. 

“Heya, Firefly Squid!” 

“Busted… no time for an escape plan,” Idia got his ipad out and using it to communicate asked, “Is Azul here? I have a package for him.”

“I’m afraid you just missed him. For some reason, he stomped away in frustration,” Jade with a faux frown, explained as if he wasn’t the one who started the teasing earlier.  

“Ah, sure. I’ll go along with what you said… I’m just gonna drop this off to him then…” Idia showcased the small USB in his hands, looking weary at the twins. He was quite suspicious of Floyd, who has been quiet since his welcome but staring at him like he’s trying to size Idia up or something. Though, with a nod, Floyd spoke up and told Azul’s location.

“Sure, Azul should be at his office. Make sure you don’t get lost,” he smirks, “but it seems that you should know your way with how much you visit him there!” 

Jade chuckled at his twin's comment looking at Idia who froze like a deer in front of headlights. 

“Fufu, don’t tease him too much, Floyd. Please, just ignore him, Idia. I’m sure Azul is waiting for you like usual,”  Jade smirked. 

Idia’s hair flared at the second part of that comment, almost tripping over his feet, he snapped his face toward the twins. 

“H–huh, w-w-waiting?! I mean, not r-really, I mean he isn’t— s-surely not– w-we weren’t even planning t-to hang out!”

“Uh-huh right, take your time~” Floyd teased. 

Idia gives them one last suspicious glance as he walks past them and slips toward the hall. Once he is out of ear reach Floyd starts laughing, “He panicked full time! Did you see his face!? Firefly Squid is really an interesting character! I approve!” 

Jade smiles, “Agree. Although it seems his panic is a little misplaced.”

“Pfft, think he knows?” 

“Perhaps but not entirely consciously. Definitely closer to realization than Azul, however. Afterall, such habits cannot be formed without anything but care.”

Floyd yawned before saying his final reply, “Better be. If he even thinks about breaking Azul’s heart I’ll squeeze him so hard his eyes will pop out.” 

Jade gives a closed eye smile in response. 

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Idia sneezed, ‘Weird suddenly I feel as if I should be careful…’

Idia continued walking down the hallway in the direction of Octavinelle’s office. With slow steps, Idia’s hammering heart feels louder than necessary. Idia’s mind is still stuck on Jade’s and Floyd’s words, ‘What do they mean “you should know your way with how much you visit him” and “I’m sure Azul is waiting for you like usual” they make it sound like I'm some charming male lead that never leaves his side. Ugh gagging just thinking about it. Well I suppose we do hang out regularly but not like 24/7. Honestly, I’m just lucky that a noob like me gets to hang out with such a SSR beauty like Azul!’

Idia calms down his heart. Perfect timing as he arrived in front of a familiar door. Idia raised his hand to knock once but after no response he knocked again. He could hear some shuffling in the room so Idia was sure Azul was in there, plus the lights could be seen under the door. After hyping himself up, he lifted his arm once more and started knocking continually in case Azul didn’t answer the first two because he didn’t hear them. Suddenly, the door is slammed open.  

“What!”

Azul appears at the door with a very pissed expression before he realizes who it was. His frown drops and is replaced by a surprised face. Idia jumped at the loud exclamation. Startled, he asked,  “Oof. What's wrong, player two?”

“Idia! I apologize, I didn’t expect you. Ah, come in.” Azul makes way for Idia to walk in the office, closing the door behind him.

“lolz, it’s alright. Haven’t seen your angry emote in a while.”

Idia sits on the couch, expecting Azul to go back to his boss chair. Instead, Azul sits right beside him with barely any space, their thighs grazing each other. 

“Again, I apologize. Anyway, what brings you here?” A smile blooms on Azul’s face, all the irritation from a few seconds ago washed away. Idia almost doesn’t catch the question as he was enamored with that rare genuine smile on the younger face but quickly remembered what he was here for. 

“Oh right,” Idia takes out the USB from his pocket, presenting it, “Tadaaa! The newly updated software system for your security as you requested. Made by your’s truly! You just need to plug this bad boy into your computer and, bam! Completely updated!” 

“Wow, I didn’t expect it so early! You’re amazing Idia!”

Idia did not expect a compliment, the surprise attack got him unprepared especially with the face of an angel saying it with such sincerity! This made working on the security code all night worth it! The tips of Idia’s hair turned pink, “Aghh, You have to prepare a dude for that, Azul!”

“Hm?” Azul tilts his head causing his glasses to slip and, without fail, Idia lifted his arm and pushed the glasses back. Idia, however, did not pull back immediately. Earlier, a piece of hair escaped from its neat placement along with Azul’s glasses. After fixing the glasses, Idia’s hands moved to the stray piece of hair. He tucks in the grey silky hair behind the other boy's ears and for a moment his hand lingers above the younger's cheek.

Azul didn’t know whether to laugh or to cry. Holding in his breath, in fear of scaring Idia away, he focused on the warm touch of the other’s hand. Truly, this could not be good for his heart. 

Eventually, Idia pulls his hand back beside him causing the short distance to grow larger between them. He leans back on the couch, stretching, ready to continue where they left off as if nothing happened, as if his action didn’t entirely break Azul’s mind. Idia was about to continue speaking when suddenly,

“...Thank you,” Azul said quietly, looking down shyly with flushed cheeks. Retracing Idia’s steps from earlier and tucking the same piece of hair that did not need fixing. 

Karma is sweet or so they say, as those two words broke Idia in return. He straightened his back and his brain experienced real time lagging. 

“O-o-of course! I-I, uh, you’re, d-don’t– yeah, r-really! N-no problem!,” hair turning fully pink, he turned his whole face away and rubbed the back of his neck, “I-I gotta get going. I still have stuff I need to do… I just came by to drop that off to you real quick..”

Idia got up from his seat, ready to leave. However, a hand reached out and grabbed him. 

“So soon? I was hoping we would have more time to talk… We haven’t seen each other all day today,” a pout blessing Azul’s face as he said these words. 

‘Oh, this is bad, this is very very bad! Another legendary pull: SSR Pouty Azul!!! Dear sevens, I am NOT your strongest soldier!’

“Uuh w-well, we’re still on for tomorrow, n-no? We will practically be hanging out all day.. You can even sleep over!”

With that response, Azul’s face lit up and nodded, “Alright, I guess that can be arranged. Well then, I do hope you don’t stay up too late. And try not to stare at screens longer than necessary tonight, although I suppose I’m shooting for the stars with that request.”

Azul walked Idia to the door, while Idia responded with a “I’ll try but no promises…” and with that he left. 

---

One thing Azul appreciated is accuracy, which would be the reason he finds himself enjoying Riddle’s company more and more. Contrary to popular belief, Azul still has a life outside of Idia. 

The two second year duo were at a usual spot between them. During lunch, Azul and Riddle would find themselves in this shady spot, under a tree. This spot was behind the school where not a lot of students walked by during this time, perfect for a girls talk. 

These days, Azul feels as if he has more people to truly be himself. 

It has become routine for both house wardens to sit together a few times a week and just rant. Rant about first years, their classes, housewarden duties, non-school related duties, rumors around the school, traumas, boys; you know, the usual. AKA, truly girl talk! 

Both boys were not so used to saying their feelings out loud but after some much needed work and a couple months of school paid therapy sessions they have at least one person to talk to! Azul and Riddle were great trauma dumping buddies and they try their best to give advice to each other. Basically, the blind leading the blind but everyone needs to start somewhere. Although, they still deny they have become good friends. The first time Yuu pointed it out both denied with more passion than their overblots. Still didn’t do anything to stop their tri-weekly gossip sessions or their newest activity sleepovers. However, those have only happened twice and under the guise as a study night with Kalim and Ruggie. 

“Seriously, if Ace and Deuce don’t get together soon, I think I’ll cut off my own head.” Riddle takes another bite of his food and swallows before he continues, “I mean, seriously, Cater said it was bad if I noticed before those two did, which in would offend me in any other case but I wish they did notice before I did, that way I wouldn’t have to see two pining idiots!” 

Azul chuckled in response, “Actually this reminds me, I heard from Ruggie that Jack told him that recently another first year student from..,” Azul stops to remember. “Pompeiore, I think, has taken an interest in Deuce and Ace is not quite happy about it.”

“Wait, that would explain it! Ace has been in a real prissy mood lately. He keeps having this irritated look. Do the first years definitely know, like, have they heard it from the student directly or are they assuming?”

“Appearantly, Epel overheard the kids’ conversation but it doesn’t matter because he’s not being vague about it.”

“Hmm… Maybe Ace could take some pointers, he certainly needs them,” Riddle chuckles at his own words, Azul nodding with a laugh of his own.  

Both continue to eat their food while chiming in to the conversation back and forth. Riddle finished his food first and looked at his watch. 

Riddle sighs, “It seems our time is up. I have to start heading to my next class”

“Don’t worry, I’ll go with you. Your books are still in your locker, right? I’m heading that way for the Hall of Mirrors, anyway.” Azul gets up and pats his pants to get dirt off.  

“Yea, you have a free period, don’t you? Are you heading back to your dorm to study?” 

“While I am planning to study, I am not going to my dorm. I’m going to Ignihyde to drop Idia some food. Knowing him he probably forgot to get lunch. He’s currently working on a new machine, meaning he’s probably too focused to remember to do anything else. And now that Ortho is a student, he has his own classes to worry about so he can’t be constantly checking on Idia. Seriously, I am surprised he lasted so long with all the crap he eats. I’ll probably just study in his dorm to make sure he eats.”

Riddle nods with some hesitation, “I s-see… Actually I have been meaning to ask, and do not feel obliged to answer, but… it seems that you and Idia spend a lot of time with each other. Are you two… well… Do you happen to be dating him?” 

Azul stops in his tracks. 

“H-huh.. Dating?!!”

Riddle stops and turns towards Azul, “I do not mean to pry! It’s just that,” he pauses, making sure to say the right words, “People have been talking. There seems to be some consistent patterns with him. Plus, you talk about him with such care, I suppose.” 

Azul fixes his glasses, adjusting his composure as well. “What a conclusion you have drawn up, Riddle. However, I do not know what you are talking about. Idia is simply a viable connection. It's a rare opportunity to connect with someone from such an important family.”

While Riddle doesn’t seem to believe a single thing Azul just said, it at least makes them start walking again. Riddle hums in response, “I see. However,” Azul internally winces when Riddle continues the topic, “You do take care of him. You're making sure he eats for seven sakes. Plus, I have noticed you make sure he feels more comfortable in public. You were even able to convince him to come to the Housewarden meeting in person. Albeit only once, but I have never seen him physically attend once in my two years of being a housewarden. Surely, that means something.”

Azul doesn’t respond right away. He doesn’t know what to say. Does that mean something?

“Truthfully,” Azul starts but then pauses. Riddle turns his head and Azul continues, “I am not completely sure what it means,” another pause, “What I do know is that with Idia… it doesn’t feel like a contract, I suppose. I do not feel any obligation when I am with him. He doesn’t seem to expect anything in return.”

“Does that bother you?” Riddle asks.

Azul pauses to think about it, before concluding, “No, it confuses me.”

They arrive at Riddle’s locker. Riddle opens his locker and grabs the proper materials for Trien’s class. Then he pauses before closing it. 

“For what it’s worth, Idia also seems to care for you. He wouldn’t let you hang around him otherwise.” 

Riddle’s locker clicks signaling it is fully locked. Before heading for the opposite directions Riddle says, “See you later. Don’t start slacking on your studies or you won’t even come close to beating me.”

Azul clicks his tongue, “I wasn’t planning to.”

Azul first stopped at Octavinelle to grab proper food before he headed to Ignihyde. Once he arrived, he passed by a few Ignihyde students who greeted him. Azul recognizes their faces, reminding him of how often he does visit Idia’s dorm. Now it makes sense why more Ignihyde students have been seeking him out for help even with his past grievances. 

Azul continued navigating through the halls remembering that Ortho told him Idia would be working in Ignihyde’s lounge. Soon that statement was verified when Azul arrived at the lounge and was greeted by the back of the six foot housewarden. Idia sat hunched over a digital keyboard, tools spread out around him. The glow of multiple screens faintly emitting off the walls, blue light mixing with the familiar flicker of his flames. His shoulders were tense, fingers moving quickly as he adjusted something inside an open panel, muttering to himself under his breath.

Azul pauses at the entrance, taking a few minutes to stare. It’s moments like this where Azul truly wonders how Idia is so unaware of the effects he has. ‘Tall, dark, and handsome– well when he doesn’t speak at least,” Azul thinks, chuckling to his own joke.

Azul then straightens his posture before clearing his throat loud enough to get Idia’s attention. 

Idia screams anyway. 

His hair glows brighter for a split second before Idia spins around quickly. 

“A-Azul?! Since when do you have stealth mode??”

“Since you forgot the rest of the world exists when working. Seriously Idia, you need to be more aware, do you know what time it is? Were you even planning on eating lunch today?”

Stepping closer, he sets the bag of food beside Idia with care before turning to the said boy. Idia looked like a scolded kid caught trying to get away with something. 

“I was planning on eating…eventually.”

“Yea, what exactly? Energy drinks and instant ramen?”

‘Oof, busted by player number 2, once again..’ Idia thinks. 

Instead of answering directly, Idia turns back to his screen avoiding Azul's disappointed stare. Idia was still a bit irritated from spending hours on his project and still not perfecting it. 

“Alright, alright, just let me finish real quick. I just got the system to stop overheating. Plus, I’m locked in. Can’t afford breaking my zone now,” said Idia.

Azul sighs for the umpteenth time, pushing his glasses in their place, he decides that this will be done the hard way. Pushing the food aside, Azul hops onto the counter. Right beside Idia’s work area. Then, after unpacking the food from the bag, Azul places it deliberately on his lap to make sure nothing is spilled. He picks up the spoon and gets a sizable amount of food. He then holds it up in front of Idia while tapping Idia’s knee with his foot. Idia looks a bit annoyed at this point, however, his expression is soon replaced by surprise. 

“U-uh, what’s this?

“What does it look like, I’m feeding you. Now you can eat without breaking your ‘zone’ ”

There's a pause. 

“Right, yeah. Cool. Coolcoolcool.” Idia looks at the spoon in front of him, pausing to inspect it before he finally leans in and takes a bite of the food being hand fed to him.

After chewing, Idia says, “Mm, it's good. Thank you…,” before turning back to his computer and continuing working. 

Azul stares at him for a while before softly saying, “Chew properly, You’re going to choke.” 

He grabs another spoon full ready for the next bite. Idia’s hair flickers as he takes the next bite. 

‘Guess, I am not going to get a lot of studying in,’ Azul thinks with a smile on his face, no sign of irritation. 

The two continue their domestic pattern, completely forgetful of the fact that they are in a public space. As other students pass by they stop dead in their tracts. Questioning if that's really their housewarden?! A small group of separate students stares in shock before suddenly a pang of jealousy, admiration and confusion take over all at once. 

“Housewarden Idia is so lucky to have such a beauty take care of him!!! He’s sooo cooool!! I seriously want to be like him… I mean this is just like the manga I was reading last night! To think that that type of stuff actually happens to people…And here of all places!” A first year Ignihyde student whispers to his dorm mate, excitedly. 

“Right?! This is straight-up domestic DLC. When do I unlock that route?? And with the beautiful Azul Ashengrotto isn’t it? Ughhhh, life can be so unfair but… I am rooting for you Housewarden! They’re totally endgame!”

“Alright, I think that's enough for you two. Lets go get your stuff before both of you forget,” an Octovinelle student starts pushing the two Ignihyde students away from the lounge. 

And just as the trio leave, Azul, not paying attention, feeds Idia another spoonful but his hand is too low, too deep in thought to notice. His mind wandered back to the conversation with Riddle. 

“Do you happen to be dating him?” The words echo in his mind, refusing to leave. Dating. The word feels strange to Azul. It's such an intimate concept that Azul never thought he would once apply to himself. To be dating someone would mean to be loveable and Azul is everything but. 

A sour taste grew in his mouth. Because if anyone were to date him, it would imply they liked him. 

‘Ridiculous…’ Azul thinks. 

Old memories come along with that concept. Past classrooms that contained  whispers and laughter that always seemed to follow him a little too closely. Mirrors he avoided— mers he avoided. The feeling of never quite fitting into the shape everyone else seemed to occupy so easily.

No he is not dating Idia but repeating Riddle's statement once more he thinks, ‘No I am not dating him but… I would like to be.”

Idia goes for another bite only to bite air. Without the food being in the usual place he turns to Azul noticing how far his food is. He then grabs Azul’s wrist and guides the spoon to his own mouth. Idia once again returns to his work. Meanwhile, Azul freezes. The heat of Idia's palm still lingering on his wrist. Suddenly, realization hits Azul like a brick, ‘I'm in love with him.’

Azul swallowed, finding the lounge far too suffocating to be in.

---

The next few days are hell for Azul. It seemed as if he could not get a single break. First, he had to prepare for a farewell party for Lilia only for Malleus to go crazy and overbolt. This led to the school going into chaos, the whole island in deep sleep, and even after it was finally over, Azul still had a battle of the heart. 

Azul had never been good with romantic feelings or any feelings for that matter. After all he thrives in a controlled, strategic environment; Something love is not! Actually, it couldn't be farther from those traits. These past days his mind has been out of control. He can’t even sleep without imaging Idia. Every moment between them replaying in his head over and over; when Idia hovered above him while talking, the way he clings onto his sleeve when walking down the hallway, this morning when their faces got too close for a reason Azul forgot, and of course the repetition of the sweet gesture of Idia fixing his glasses for him. Needless to say, he hasn’t had this much stress since he was a kid being bullied. 

He couldn’t have been more thankful that his dream in Malleus realm made him forget Night Raven all together and everyone he met, lest he make a bigger fool of himself. Imagine if he dreamt of a world where he and Idia were dating. Not only Idia but Ortho could’ve seen it when trying to save him. If that had happened Azul would have absolutely refused to participate in saving the world and would be in favor of sleeping forever without waking up. Nevertheless, he could barely sleep in fear that he might have another delusion dream.

However, sleepless nights didn't mean slacking off on Mostro Lounge duties. During the day, he goes to his classes and straight after: work. No breaks needed. At least that's what Azul tells himself. 

He just needed to be kept busy, anything to keep his mind over his crush. (Crush! Can you imagine?! Azul with a crush! Hah, it took Azul two weeks to just confess it to himself). This, however, does not go entirely unnoticed.

Jade was the first to notice when he saw Azul fixing cups that did not need to be fixed and the way Azul would find work to do when no work was needed. Something he never did as he would never waste time on things that didn’t need it. He even started fighting with customers over rules that never existed, it was quite amusing for Jade. Floyd noticed soon after and found it funny, especially when Azul freezes even at the mention of Ignihyde. Like he was hiding from something that would attack him personally. 

Nevertheless, they weren’t worried at the very least. They knew this was just how Azul got when he wanted to avoid something but eventually he would have to face his feelings one way or another. Of course, if it gets too out of hand they will step in. For now though, Azul will keep straightening his back in a tense posture, fix papers that are already perfect, and use more and more concealer to hide his eyebags.

All this, however, led to avoiding Idia. 

Of course, not on purpose– well, not at first. Azul Ashengrotto started ignoring Idia in a very deliberate Azul way: a polite, inconspicuous, calculated way. He didn’t dare cut off all contact immediately; whether it was for his own sake or Idia’s, it was unclear. His busy schedule became the perfect excuse for his disappearance. Gradually, he couldn’t show up to their hangouts and messages got replied a bit later than usual. He still goes to clubs because no matter how much he knew he needed to avoid Idia he just couldn’t stand the thought of never seeing him. Though, Azul just made sure to have an excuse ready beforehand to explain why he has to head back to his dorm. Jade was a reliable excuse. 

Food is still sent to Ignihyde, but instead he gives it to Ortho to deliver along with an apology. Honestly, Azul curses the fact that those two are brothers in times like this. Ortho looks too much like his brother. 

The octopus just makes sure every excuse sounds reasonable even though every excuse hurts. 

Idia notices after a week. 

At first, he tells himself it’s fine. Azul is a housewarden so it makes sense he's super busy, heck he’s busy too! Things have been more hectic than usual, after all. Also, Azul has a life. It’s not like he needs to hang out with Idia any time he's free. He doesn’t! 

Idia sighs. He slouches in his chair as he stares at his DMs more than his code. He texted Azul more than two hours ago and still no response. ‘It’s whatever,’ Idia keeps telling himself over and over. Azul is like a super OP character that has like 20 different side quests everyday to unlock his main route. Not like Idia, who has more like 20 different games to play everyday to unlock a life full of misery.

He leans back in his chair rocking it back and forth while he clicks through his monitor, not really proof reading anything. 

He looks at the time one more time and then his messages again. Two hours and four minutes. Idia groans and drops his head onto his desk, cheek being squished by the table. 

“…Did I do something?” he mutters to Ortho, who pauses mid-hover from cleaning his brother's bookshelf.

“Statistically unlikely,” Ortho says gently as he looks over. “However, Azul’s behavioral patterns have shifted by 57%. That is… concerning.”

Idia laughs weakly, “Yeah… figures.”

“Don’t worry brother, I am sure it's nothing. Maybe you should talk to him! Figure out what's going on!”

“As if I haven’t tired… Won’t even answer his phone,” Idia mumbled and stood up from his chair, “I even went to the lounge, immediately regretted it btw. He wasn’t even there…” Groaning, he dragged himself to his bed.

Idia plopped down not even bothering to remove the clothes he threw on his bed earlier. Instead, Idia starts analyzing every single interaction he has ever had with the younger mer. Second guessing everything aka full spiral mode. Did he overstep? Maybe there was a merfolk norm he broke that was a huge no-no. Did he notice Idia was being too dependent? Too desperate? Maybe he got icked out with one of his habits. 

Most importantly, ‘Why is this stressing me out so much?’

Idia let out another groan into his pillow. Pulling his hair out of frustration in the process.  

Ortho looked at his brother with worry. 

Ortho’s concern for his brother only grows the next day. Idia’s energy has depleted severely without Azul and it's only getting worse. Ortho had originally noticed how drastically Idia has improved ever since Azul entered his life. This included, leaving his dorm more often without so much persuasion, eating habits improving, and even his exercise has gone up (though that's like saying a baby is getting more exercise because they started walking). Now with Azul gone his brother has gone back to being a total shut in– No, actually, he’s even worse! Not even pulling for his favorite character's limited addition event is cheering him up! He’s so sad and mopey all the time, every time Ortho asks if he is okay, Idia just nods and says to not worry. But how could Ortho possibly not worry!

After much consideration of one web search, he decided he is going to help his brother fix his relationship with Azul one way or another! He can’t possibly lose his future brother-in-law this easily! Oh and he also wants to see his brother happy again.

However, if Ortho wants to fix this lovers quarrel, he couldn’t possibly do it alone! Outside assistance will absolutely be needed and he has just the right person or should he say eel.

Later that day, after a bit asking around, Ortho finally found who he was tracking down. 

Floyd Leech. 

Finding Floyd was, surprisingly, easier than expected. Probably because Ortho knew he was in the basketball club with Ace. Meaning he had their exact schedule in his database. Ortho headed straight to the gym exactly at the end of practice. 

When Ortho first walked in he found Floyd still on the court. He stood in the middle all by himself meaning the other members probably started walking towards the lockers to change already. Floyd, however, seemed to still have some remaining energy and he dribbled a basketball in his hands wherever and whenever he wanted it with fast coordination before deciding to go for a point. 

The ball goes in the net flawlessly and Floyd catches the rebound ball easily. A satisfied grin was on his face as he was about to go for a second when he heard a familiar mechanical hum. Turning his head he notices the younger robot. 

“Aayyy, Sea Angel!! How are ya! Crabby already left to change in the locker room, ya know?”

“I am well aware but I am not here for Ace!”

Floyd tilts his head, then balances the ball on his fingers and spins it, “huh? Then whatcha here for?” 

“Floyd Leech, I acquire your assistance!”

Floyd does not reply immediately. Rather, he stops the ball from spinning and dribbles it once again. Preparing for another toss to the net as he says, “Yeaah, not interested.”

“Huh?! I haven’t even told you what I need help with!” Ortho steps back in shock but he wasn’t going to give up so easily!

“Look, I don’ feel like helping anyone right now! And even if I did, can’t cus Azul’s got me booked at the Lounge all week! When I tried to fight him, his mood got even worse! Then I skipped once and now he’s breathing down my back!” Floyd shoots for the third time but misses, grabbing the ball once more to slam it. He takes a step back ready to finally be able to release his anger.

“Well, that is what I want help with! I need you to get Azul out of the Lounge so he can finally stop avoiding my brother!! My brother is suffering in his room as we speak. His emotional stability has gone down 65% since Azul started distancing himself from him.” Ortho clasped his hand together and shut his eyes, not noticing Floyd stopped in his tracks. “If you can just get Azul somewhere– Anywhere! I can drag my brother there and then they will have no choice but to confront their feelings! Please!” 

Silence. 

Floyd tucked the basketball under his arm.

“So, ya want me to trick Azul into meeting Idia, forcing him into a situation he’s been avoiding… Sure sounds fun! I’m In!” Floyd grins.

“I know it a lot to ask and I understand if you want to declin– wait what? It was that easy!” 

Floyd shrugged his shoulders, “Like I said, Azul’s been at the lounge every day, monitoring my every move! Total buzz kill. Without Azul hanging out with Firefly Squid I actually have to do my job! It's starting to get on my nerves.”

“Really! Thank you!!” 

“–I do think we should prob’ly get Jade onto this plan. He would probably have a better idea where we should trap ‘em”

Ortho nods, “I have no problems with that. Jade Leech has a 92% success rate when it comes to strategic interference.”

As if summoned by name alone, Jade’s voice drifted in smoothly from behind them.

“Oh my, discussing my talents without inviting me? How cruel.”

Ortho spun around, “Jade!”

Jade was standing just outside the gym doors, already changed out of his club jacket, hands folded neatly behind his back and wearing his signature smirk. His eyes flicked between Floyd’s grin to Ortho’s excited posture. 

“…I see,” Jade said pleasantly. “This concerns Azul and Housewarden Shroud.”

“You’re freaky,” Floyd laughed. “You didn’t even ask!”

Jade hummed. “It is plainly obvious. Those two have been quite the mess. I am sure it has been rather obvious how distressed Azul has been lately.” He said addressing Floyd. “I would gladly join you two, if I could be of some help”

Ortho clasped his hands again, “Of course, I want my brother to feel better. Improving his emotional state will surely help! With us working together, nothing will stand in our way!”

Jade chuckled softly. “How touching. A mutual objective.”

Floyd slung the ball aside and cracked his knuckles, “This is starting to sound like fun!! Alright, What’s the plan?”

Ortho’s eyes gleamed. “We need to force communication.”

All three of them contained matching grins. 

.

.

.

Somewhere else on campus, Azul Ashengrotto sneezed for no distinct reason.

Azul is, to put it simply, having a shitty day. He woke up late, something that hasn’t happened in years and just when he was making himself coffee he burned himself, spilling all of it, something he will blame the lack of sleep for. In the end he had to go to class without any caffeine. This made him not only forget his pencil pouch but also since his classes were so dreadfully dreadful, he found himself snoozing off and he wasn’t the only one. Professor Trein snapped him awake in the middle of the lecture, something so humiliating he wanted to go back to his octopus pot. Then at lunch, he dropped his food on the floor. Plus worst of all, he had PE today. Truly could not be worse.

Even after such a long day he was ready to collapse on his bed but sadly that was not possible. Hopefully a smooth day at Mostro Lounge will be an equivalent relief. Except, of course, it won't.

“What do you mean Floyd isn’t here yet! You mean to tell me: today, the busiest days of the week no less, we are down three waiters and Floyd isn’t here??? Oh and I suppose you’re supposed to cover for him!”

The nervous first-year slowly nodded, uncertain what else to say. His housewarden has not been in a good mood lately. 

“Great, just great, this is exactly what I needed,” Azul muttered. He brought his fingers up to pinch the bridge of his nose before releasing a huge sigh. 

“Fine, fine, get out of here. I’ll handle it.”

The first-year scrambled out so quickly, he could have cried from relief alone.

Azul brought his hand down, ready to go out and get the day over with. He stood up from his chair, heading towards the door before he paused. His glasses are crooked. 

 He waits. 

A second passes. 

Nothing happens.

 Azul curses under his breath and fixes them himself, irritated at himself for the hesitation. He needs to get himself together.

After one more sigh, he stepped out of his office, heading straight behind the bar. As he rolled up his sleeves, ready to keep himself busy, Jade walked behind the counter with a tray. When he sets down the tray, his eyes turn to Azul.

“Housewarden,” Jade said smoothly, “you seem fatigued.”

“Do not worry, I am perfectly fine, just irritated is all.” 

Jade hummed in response with a frown on his face. His eyes flickered to Azul's glasses, which were slanted with how much Azul was scrunching up his nose in a scowl. Neither said nothing. Azul wanted anything but silence. 

Sighing once more, Azul reached up to fix his glasses. Stopping halfway fixing them. The warmth was not the same.

‘Idia..’

The realization hit Azul like another burned hand.

Azul dropped his hand, jaw tightening. He turned sharply, nearly colliding with a passing waiter. The lounge felt louder, brighter, too crowded all of a sudden.

“Jade,” Azul said stiffly, “if Floyd arrives, tell him to report to me immediately.”

“Of course,” Jade replied, smiling far too serene. Once Azul was far from him he sent his brother a text.

Half an hour later, Azul slipped into autopilot. He took orders, made drinks, counted change, all with a smile. Normally, this would bring closure to him, the predictability of it all. However, it seemed that today was truly not his day. Even now that the customers were more controlled Azul thought he could get a breather. He should have known better.

“Azul, If I may have a moment,” Jade walked up to the shorter boy, “I am afraid there is an urgent issue on campus. It seemed some trouble makers broke into the classrooms and the staff were trying to figure out who could have done such atrocities. You are requested to aid as the culprit left an Octavinelle ribbon.”

Azul scrunches his nose in irritation. ‘Of course.’ 

“Fine. Where do I go?”

Once Azul made it to classroom D-3, the sun was beginning to set behind the half drawn curtains. 

The room was completely silent and nothing seemed out of place. Matter of fact, nothing seems to be here at all. The classroom has clearly not been in use for a while now. In the corner of the room was just an old couch that seemed relatively new, however still unused. Nearby there were multiple stacks of desks and chairs, which seem to be what this room mainly stores. The rest of the stuff were just random boxes most likely also used for storage. Azul walks around the room, heels clicking softly on the floor while Azul tries to figure out what exactly he is looking for. Just as he was going to turn and text Jade, someone called out his name. 

“Azul?”

His heart stops. Azul prays to the seven that Jade was following him the whole time and coincidentally his voice just got another growth birth.

However, life is cruel. He slowly turns around and there he is, the man of all Azul’s dreams and nightmares.

Idia Shroud stands a few steps from the doorway, eyes wide as if he was staring at his dead wife— I mean as if he has just been caught in an unexpected situation. 

Azul swallowed before preparing himself to greet the other man. But before he can get a word out, a loud bang emits through the room as the door is shut behind Idia. 

They both jump from surprise and turn to the door.

Then a click.

The door is locked. Azul runs to yank the door handle. However, it doesn’t budge no matter how hard he tries. And he tries. 

Outside the door, an unmistakable voice is heard. “Whoops,” Floyd with no attempts to hide his amusement, “Looks like it's stuck.”

“HUH? W-what, w-wait! Ortho!? Pls say sike rn!!” Idia rushes to the door and presses a palm on the door while the other is in a fist to bang on the door. 

“Do not worry brother! I will monitor from a safe distance! Good luck!” Ortho cheerfully says, far too innocent. 

Beside Idia, Azul yells out, “Floyd Leech, if you don’t open this door right now, I will reduce your pay all month!” 

Floyd's laughter rings out, “Worth it!”

A pair of footsteps and the sound of a robot start getting farther and farther away. Silence takes over the room. 

After a few seconds, Azul inhales sharply before exhaling. He straightens his blazer with trembling fingers. He forces himself to look composed– in control. Finally, he turns and sees Idia still staring at the door like he has just faced the biggest betrayal of his life. 

“Did we just get…bamboozled…”

“It would appear so.” Azul stiffly replied.

Azul moved farther away, pretending to inspect the room. In reality he wanted to be as far as possible so Idia won’t notice his panicked state. Azul was not prepared for a surprise attack! He should have known those twins were planning something! They even got poor Ortho involved. 

They stood on opposite sides of the room, neither willing to make the first move. 

Minutes passed of pure silence. 

However, if you asked Idia he would say a whole century passed by. It was awful.

Eventually, Idia couldn’t take it anymore and his voice started quietly, “...So, how long do you think we’ll be stuck here…”

Idia immediately regretted saying something after the words slipped from his mouth. ‘How long? How long!?! Really, as if I care!! More like how much longer are you planning on blocking me irl!’ 

Azul hesitated, fingers brushing against the dusty desk. He kept his back turned, as if the wall needed his full undivided attention. He shrugged his shoulders, “Knowing Floyd, long enough for the purpose of this little escapage to succeed. What that is, I do not know.”

Not exactly reassuring. 

Another stretch of silence followed, worse than before. Idia hated that response, ‘Great… its polite, distant Azul’. The same Azul he has been dealing with all week. Shifting on the sole of his feet, the silence became more thick and awkward. Idia could swear Azul could hear his heart beating from across the room. Should he say something? This is the longest time Azul has spoken to him in the past week. Maybe he should push some answer out of this guy for suddenly ghosting him. That is probably the reason Ortho caused this whole situation. 

“Hey, I-I was wondering.. I mean, I-I know you’ve been busy,” Idia blurted suddenly, words going on autopilot, “And stuffs been crazy lately and its not like you own me your time or an explanation or anything– I mean, I would like one, which is why I am asking– but– feel free to interrupt me any time– and obviously im not entitled to it, that’d be hella cringe– but uhh… Did I… H-have I done something wrong…?”

Azul froze. 

Idia swallowed harshly, composure cracking by the minute. He fixed his eyes on the floor, “I-its just that yk, you kinda disappeared… And if I did anything, just tell me and I’ll quickly apologize– A-and will gladly go on my way. Seriously. Or if I said anything, maybe I b-broke some kind of rule I didn’t know about– Or–”

“–Idia.”

“Maybe I was bothering you too much, which if that's the case feel free to tell me off!–”

“Idia.”

“–I never meant to make you feel uncomfortable! Wow I am totally tanking this aren't I? Look I would just wish you’d tell me. Cause’ my brain how been doing a really bad job at autofilling the plot holes and–”

“IDIA!” Azul shouts, finally interrupting Idia from his rant. Azul was now facing Idia, making full eye contact for the first time in days. 

“Uh, y-yes…?” Idia had missed those blue eyes.

“You haven’t done anything. Truly.” Azul stopped, debating whether to continue.

Finally, he let out a big sigh, “If anything, it's actually all my fault…” Azul took off his hat and ran his hand through his hair. He set the hat down, along his blazer and coat, not caring about the dust. Through these actions Idia was staring intently at him, really taking him in. Azul looked exhausted, eyebags under his eyes and not looking like the always organized Azul. 

Azul walked over the old sofa in the corner of the room and sat down. Once he sat down he looked back up at Idia who was still frozen in place. Too scared to move in case he would scare Azul off. 

Azul clicked his tongue, “...Idia, you don’t need to stand over there. Come here.” He patted the empty space beside him on the sofa. As soon as Idia heard the command he walked over like a puppy. He forced himself to move his feet from the floor, each step cautious, just in case Azul would vanish.

Idia sat on the end of the couch, practically ten feet away from Azul and about to fall off. Azul sighed. He then picked himself up and sat directly beside Idia. 

Idia posture immediately straightened tighter and the tip of his hair flushed. 

They were close enough that Idia could count Azul's eyelashes, one by one. Also, close enough to notice the slight tremor in his fingers.

Azul stared at the floor for a long time. 

“Look. I am not…good at this, so I will apologize in advance.” Azul swallowed, “I realized something I was not yet prepared to handle. And I thought distracting myself would be…responsible. Efficient. That if I gave myself space, things would return back to normal…”

Idia continued to stare at Azul, “...And did they?” he asked quietly. 

Azul thought about it for a moment, before chuckling softly, “No… It absolutely did not. In fact, it made things worse. And, to be honest, I am entirely exhausted!” 

Frustrated, Azul let out his hundredth sigh, tugging on his hair a little before letting himself relax. Before he could overthink it, Azul nudged closer. Then, without hesitation, he leaned forward to rest his head against Idia’s shoulder.

Idia froze. His heart felt like it was about to burst.

He felt Azul’s hair brush against his cheek, and the warmth of the weight made Idia’s brain scream “Error. Error” while having a complete system shutdown. 

“...A-Azul?” he whispered. 

“... I'm sorry… I just needed time to think, I didn’t mean to hurt you… Idia, I–” Azul sighs and then says quieter, “I…I don’t know what I'm doing.”

Idia didn’t know how to respond. Instead, after a few seconds, his shoulders relaxed. Enough to let Azul settle more comfortably. Azul closed his eyes. His hands trembling once more before curling into the fabric of Idia’s sleeve. 

Idia eyes widened as Azul’s breathing slowed.

“...He’s… asleep…” Idia whispered.

Idia froze, like statue-level froze.

He stared straight ahead, barely breathing, even trying not to blink just in case that woke up the younger boy. He felt like one wrong move would shatter something important just like when a cat lays next to you and a mental contract is formed that you are not allowed to move until the cat wakes up. 

Azul’s weight leaned further to his side. 

‘Okay. Okay. Don’t panic. I REPEAT DO NOT PANIC.’ Idia panicked.

Azul then subtly shifted a bit to get more comfortable causing Idia to turn to him and after some thought he carefully– painfully so, leaned back so his back would touch the back of the couch. Once Azul slipped further into the crook of his neck, Idia gently got his hand out of Azul's grip and adjusted it so he could wrap an arm around Azul, guiding him so he is in a more comfortable position. 

Idia looked down to make sure Azul was still asleep. Perfect timing to see Azul’s nose scrunch up in irritation. 

Idia’s heart absolutely lost its mind.

‘S-so cute!’

Looking down again, he noticed the cause of irritation. The glasses were crooked in a way that definitely lowered comfortability points. Idia brought up his free hand to take off the other’s glasses with care. Putting them aside carefully, he once again turned all his attention to the grey haired. This time he looked, really looked at Azul. The tension was completely gone from the boy's face. Idia hasn’t been this close to someone in– well, ever! 

So Idia made sure to take in every detail. The way Azul’s hair fell perfectly around his face. The perfect jaw line that was definitely too OP.

His golden eyes slip past the long grey lashes to the curve of his nose. Finally, to the soft parted lips. Idia wondered how someone can have such pretty lips. Pink and plump with a beauty mark positioned perfectly underneath. 

Idia reached out to trace the pretty lips before retracting his hand when he realized what he was doing. 

‘Ack?! What am I doing?!’

He quickly forced his hand into his lap like nothing happened. Sweat prickled down his neck. However, his eyes kept wandering back. He couldn’t stop. Not like he wanted to. 

The sunset coming into the room was highlighting Azul like he was an angel! With the gentle rise and fall of Azul’s chest, Idia’s hand twitched again. 

‘Do not touch. Do not touch. Do no–’

Too late. His finger grazed the bottom of Azul’s lips. Hovering over the sleeping beauty in front of him. What is he doing? Then, if possible, his heart started beating faster but strangely enough he felt extremely light. 

Then a tiny mutter escaped Azul, a crit hit for Idia’s heart! His heart thumped violently in his ears. His face flushed pink, and as he put his hand back down his stomach fluttered. Idia’s breath hitched, shame flooding over him. He covered his face with his hand, and groaned silently as he came to a realization. ‘This cannot be happening!’

In that silent room, then and there, Idia admitted the undeniable truth to himself: he was utterly, completely, irreversibly in love with Azul. 

.

.

.

“...I’m so cooked.”