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[1stclasspuppy]

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text; un: leonkennedy

[needsabreak]

hey it's been a few days. how're you holding up?

Re: text; un: leonkennedy

[1stclasspuppy]

Oh Leon! Hey buddy! It's been okay. I took a job at the flower shop. Haven't made too many new friends yet. How are you?

[needsabreak]

did you get yourself a contract then? or are they... uh... nevermind. best not really talk about this on the network.

have you thought at all about finding someone to help you out this month?

[1stclasspuppy]

A contract? Oh no not even close yet. I don't really know how to just ask someone about that.

I was thinking of maybe helping take someone out of the jail, don't like that there's a jail really. That's kind of my maybe plan for the month.

[he's struggling a bit]

[needsabreak]

right. you're a dominant. you can work without needing a contract. i forget that sometimes.

you have 3 months on that, so it's not a huge rush.

... the other part kind of is.

do you work with any nice girls or anything?

[1stclasspuppy]

Three months, got it! I should be able to find someone to take care of in that time no problem!

The owner is really nice and I haven't been there long enough to meet everyone yet. Why do you ask? Are you looking for a girlfriend Leon?

[needsabreak]

what??? no

no, zack...

because you need to find someone to have sex with in the next couple of weeks. we have quotas and you do NOT want to come up short or they'll force you to have sex. belive me, you don't want that.

[1stclasspuppy]

I get that but why were you asking about my coworkers? Are you bored with Rude and your partner?

I'll figure something out, always have. I just need to practice or something

[needsabreak]

i didn't ask about your coworker. i asked if you'd met any nice girls. i was asking for your sake cause i'm worried you might not want to find anyone after what you said.

i know it must be hard when you have someone back home but they don't care here

you need practice?

[1stclasspuppy]

Oh! That makes more sense then. I think. I mean I met one or two but I don't know if I'm ready to have another girlfriend. It's been 4 years and I was sort of asleep for it so maybe we aren't dating anymore but still I'd feel a little bad.

I know I need to mosey on that a little. I haven't even kissed anyone here.

[needsabreak]

you probably shouldn't think about it like a 'girl friend' but i'll leave that up to you to decide

i'm guessing you haven't been here long enough to find someone you wouldn't mind 'practicing' on yet? is rude the only person here who you know from home?

[1stclasspuppy]

Oh right it's a sort of no feelings thing too. I don't know if I could do that with someone I don't like though.

I mean, there are really pretty and handsome people here! I just, I guess I'm kind of nervous? The most I've ever done is kiss and I've only kissed one person before. What if I'm terrible? Yeah Rude's the only one.

[needsabreak]

well. i didn't say do it with people you don't like. but liking someone and having romantic intentions... you can try to keep them separate.

[Handsome? That's... an interesting choice of words. Pretty and handsome. Noted.]

hm. well. you can't learn without doing. i mean you could watch some videos but you kind of just need to do it to get better at it. but even then, i bet you'll do fine.

not to make things weird, but if you have any questions i can try to answer them. rude would probably be a lot better at that than me though

[1stclasspuppy]

I guess, I mean I think I can. I know I loved Aerith, I still do and well

Actually

You're right I should try to just find someone I kind of enjoy pending time with right? Maybe?!?


I don't want to bother either of you and your partners. I can watch some videos I guess if I need to. I did try the classes but pictures don't help me as much as seeing it in person does. I guess I need hands on experience. I'm just worried I'm going to be a bad kisser or something. Aerith liked my kisses but I think I was her first boyfriend so I'm not sure if that's good or bad.

[needsabreak]

you're not bothering me or anyone with questions. ask away. and don't be worried, you'll do fine

but yeah, a lot of people use the term 'friends with benefits'. the benefits being, y'know, sex

[1stclasspuppy]

You and Rude are friends with benefits right? Does it get lonely at all? Can you still cuddle each other after?

It gets lonely in my place at night, it's really quiet and I don't like it. Back hoke I had the sounds of the city when I was alone, and when I was on the run my friend was there. He...he didn't talk much but that was still another person breathing near me. I'm not used to this.

[needsabreak]

yeah, that's right

lonely? not really? i don't really sleep great so... maybe i'm not the best person to ask about that. but he's hung around afterward sometimes and i've done the same with other people too. i'm sure there are plenty of people who'd like to cuddle and even spend the night. whether you did anything or not.

[1stclasspuppy]

You don't sleep well? That's not good. Sleep is awesome. Are you someone who likes to cuddle and spend the night, Leon? Maybe if we cuddled you'd be able to sleep better.

[needsabreak]

eh honestly... i mean hanging out can be nice. 'cuddling' or whatever. but i usually try not to stay the night cause i know i'll likely wake up a bunch or not be able to fall asleep or worse

[God damnit, when did this become about him. This was supposed to be a conversation making sure Zack would get laid.]

[1stclasspuppy]

If it's nice then why don't we try? I have so much spare room and it would be nice to know someone else is nearby. We don't have to share the bed if you don't want to. I don't snore I promise!

[He's trying so hard to get Leon to spend the night.]

[needsabreak]

you want me to come sleep over? like... platonically? of course you do.

i

it's not going to go well

i just

i have bad nightmares. really bad.

[He really hated admitting this to anyone but he's sure Zack will blame himself somehow if he's not blatantly honest that the reason he doesn't want to sleep over is because of his own issues, not anything to do with Zack.]

sorry. if you want to sleep, having me over isn't going to help you

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack does feel awful but only because there doesn't seem like much he can do. He still wants to try.]

Even if you don't sleep, I'd still like you to come over and try. I don't really know what you mean by platonically but I won't do anything you don't like. I just think maybe if I hold you it might help you relax. I have trouble sleeping too so I get the nightmares and well


trauma.


I won't push it but if you ever can't sleep and want company please come knocking on my door. I'd happily let you in and protect you.

[needsabreak]

fine. we can try. i'll give it a real shot. but i've slept with people before and it didn't make a difference. sometimes it makes it worse. being held. i wake up feeling trapped. attacked. but at least i know i can't really hurt you

i don't need anyone to protect me. i can protect myself.

but we can see if how this goes

and. hey. i'd prefer you not tell anyone about the nightmares.

[1stclasspuppy]

<> So I won't hold you then, at least not the whole time. That way you won't feel trapped. I'll just be near as a presence that cam help if you need.

I didn't mean to make you upset Leon. I'm just trying to help anyway I can. I don't have much else I can offer.

You have my word I won't tell anyone. If you want to come tonight, you can. I'll be awake.

[needsabreak]

we'll figure something out

but if i agree to do this, then you have to agree to try something too

you need to at least kiss someone. make out with someone. heavy petting, whatever you want to call it. i think you need to start trying stuff or a month is gonna go by and you're going to end up in trouble and i don't want that to happen to you

what time do you want me to come over?

[1stclasspuppy]

okay I promise

Can I kiss you? That counts right?

If you want I mean. I dont wanna make you uncomfortable around me.

You can come over whenever you're tired.

[needsabreak]

wait

what?

you want to kiss me?

[There had been some hints that Zack might like men and women, but he's still surprised Zack would want to kiss him of all people.]

yeah, that'd count if you wanted to

i haven't even been here that long but already... that doesn't come close to making me feel uncomfortable. i'm just surprised.

how about i come over around 10 and we can watch TV or something?

[1stclasspuppy]

Should I not want to? You're nice and my friend. Friends kiss sometimes

I think

[He never kissed Cloud but he did know Genesis and Angeal were best friends and he saw them kiss, so it must be a thing.]

Well we can if you want or we can just watch tv too. I'll get snacks ready!!

[needsabreak]

just surprised, that's all

i'll see you soon

[As promised, Leon makes his way to the address Zack gives him around 10, getting there just a little past the hour. Since this is a sleepover, he's already in a comfortable looking pair of black sweats and an equally soft looking t-shirt with an out of place looking leather jacket on. He knocks on the door and waits for Zack to answer.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack sends a little smiley face emoji before he sets about cleaning his place which just means he's throwing a few things into a closet to deal with later. He doesn't have much yet but he did buy some clothes. Speaking of clothes he's going to put on the new shorts he bought and a silly loose shirt with three wolves howling at the moon on it.

After getting all his junk food out and taking out a nice warm blanket for the couch is around the time he hears a knock on his door and he rushes to answer it. Leon looks so cute all dressed down, very cozy too. He can't help but smile at him and opens the door for him.]

Hey! Welcome! I hope it wasn't too far to come this way. I like the jacket.

[needsabreak]

[Leon musters up a soft, lopsided smile when Zack opens the door and is practically beaming. It's ridiculously contagious.]

Not far at all. Five minute walk, tops.

[As he steps inside, he shrugs out of the jacket, now looking like he could just crawl into bed based on what he's wearing.] Thanks. It's the only one I've bought here so far, so it was an easy choice when I saw how chilly it was outside.

[But it's a nice temperature in Zack's apartment plus they'll be sitting close, he guesses, and then crawling into bed together.] Have you checked out what's on TV yet? It's all pretty... well, you'll see. [Like most things in Duplicity, sex seemed to be involved in everything.]

[1stclasspuppy]

Whoa only five minutes? Where were you that you were so close??

[Zack heads over to his living room where a few bowls are filled with snacks of all kind and he grabs the bowl of cheese curls, tossing a few into his mouth before he brings it over to Leon and offers some to him.]

I haven't really watched tv yet but I mean it can't be all sex can it? [He had watched both videos at orientation and the first one had been sort of informative, so maybe there is at least a news channel or something they can watch. It can't possibly just be porn...right?]

you aren't chilly in here right? I run hot I've been told so I can hold you if you get cold.

[needsabreak]

[Leon follows him, glancing around. It's strange to see his place. It looks just like another Dominant apartment he'd been in. Identical. Down to the furniture.

He gives Zack a soft smile as he takes a few cheese curls, tossing them into his mouth with a quiet 'thanks'.]

It's not all sex, but everything has sex in it. If that makes sense. Like every sitcom, every movie, every reality show. Sex is gonna happen at some point.

[He continues into the living room and sinks down into the couch.] Nah, I'm good. You can keep me warm anyway. [He gives Zack a little smirk.]

[1stclasspuppy]

Oh well that's not bad. I csn just skip those scenes or something or maybe just hide behind a pillow or something.

[Of course he'd still hear it with his hearing even if he lowered the volume but hes not thinking about that.]

Oh I can?

[Just like a dog given permission to jump on a couch, zack quickly puts the bowl back on the coffee table and is on the couch in moments. He moves over to Leon and so easily lifts the man as if he's weightless before putting him into his lap and hugging his waist.]

Nice and toasty right?? If you get sleepy you can fall asleep on me here. I don't mind at all

[there is zero personal space between them on this couch as Zack lays his head on Leons shoulder and grabs the remote to turn the tv on.]

[needsabreak]

Hide behind a pillow? [Leon asks, surprised. He thought he was bad about that kind of thing. He tended to get bashful and flustered when talking about the specifics of sex but he was pretty good otherwise. It's still rare for him to come across someone more shy about this kind of thing than he was.] I dunno. Some of the scenes can be kind of funny with how corny they are. And... well... sometimes some of the stuff can be kind of hot, too.

[He shrugs a little.

He can't help a soft laugh as Zack practically dives onto the couch though he immediately stops and goes stiff as he's lifted up suddenly and deposited on the man's lap. He's beet red when he finally finds his voice.] Uh... are you sure this is... comfortable for you?

[Still blushing furiously, he slowly relaxes, letting himself lean back and against Zack, feeling his warmth radiating through his back pleasantly.] This show's pretty ridiculous. The contestants are trying to win a date with the mystery person and they have to do a bunch of weird stuff.

[He turns his head slightly as he explains, their faces suddenly very close with Zack resting against his shoulder.] Which reminds me... you, uh... you promised me a kiss. [His face is burning again, cheeks and ears red and hot.]

[1stclasspuppy]

It's totally fine! I'm really comfy actually, are you Leon? [Zack's honestly feeling better than he has since hes got here right now. Having someone in his arms just feels right. Since he put Leon in his lap he's felt butterflies in his stomach in the best of ways and has just been focusing on having that presence and warm scent surrounding him.]You're comfy.

[He focuses on the tv for a bit as they sit thwre and make small talk. The show actually isn't bad and kind of funny. He's invested already into it when Leon turns to look at him. He looks back, eyes glowing a little as he remembers he did say he'd do that over text.] oh..yeah um...yeah....we can.

[They are close, faces close enough for it but Zack pulls back a bit so he can lean more over Leon and look into his eyes. His own cheeks go a bit pink as his thumb presses down on Leon's chin, bringing him a little closer. He looks directly at those lips before him for a moment,taking a breath before he closes the distance and presses his lips against Leon's in a sweet kiss. His eyes close and his hand is still on the man's chin. It's not a bad kiss, hes had experience with kisses, its soft and sweet much like Zack.]

[needsabreak]

Yeah, I'm good. As long as I'm not too heavy. [But if Zack is good, he's good.

He catches the faint blush, still glowing himself but Zack leans in slightly, so he tilts his head for a better angle. He lets Zack lead, closing his eyes as their lips meet. It's slow and sweet, Zack's lips soft against his. He lets this kiss linger a moment longerbefore tilting his head slightly to rest his forehead against Zack's.

That had been very... feelings-ful and it leaves him conflicted, their initial conversation with Rude replaying in his mind.]

That was nice. You are a good kisser. [His voice is quiet, the words practically murmured against Zack's lips.] But I... I want... [He pauses, collects his thoughts, then tries again.] You should know, before we go any further, I'm not looking for anything more than friends with benefits. I don't want you to get the wrong idea, Zack. And I don't want to hurt you. If that's not okay, we can just hang out, y'know? [He searches Zack's eyes as he speaks, watching for flickers of emotion, needing to see how he'll react.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[The kiss has him grinning when Leon pulls away. He kind of wanted to kiss a bit more but he's content with that, they can totally kiss more right? He hopes so anyway.] It was really good.

[Zack's happy to press his forehead against Leon's noses touching and his toes curling a little bit as he's assaulted with butterflies in his stomach at how nice this is. He really needs to kiss his friends more often, that's what he's taking from this.] You're soft Leon. [The man sort of feels a bit like a cozy teddy bear in his arms and he gives a squeeze, enjoying the short soft moment that he'll wish could last longer.]

[When Leon looks at him his happy almost dreamy expressions falters. Leon just wants to be friends who fuck is what he's hearing. He's sure that works for others but he wants to be more than that, not right now but to hear any possibility of more in the future be crushed so quickly has him pouting as he pulls back, his grip on Leon nearly nonexistent now.]

O-Oh...I thought...I mean... okay. [Leon had just said he liked the kiss so why would he say that now? Had he been lying and just been nice that maybe it wasn't good enough? Zack doesn't know but takes a moment to bring back his smile, just not as bright as it was before.] If that's what you want then I'll respect your wishes. We can just be friends then.

[He's not sure if he should have Leon in his arms now. He knows he used to sit like this with Angeal rarely so it might still be okay but maybe it's too much for Leon now.]

Ah...should we maybe um...do you want to sit at the other end of the couch instead? Is this still okay?

[needsabreak]

[It feels like he's just kicked a puppy. It hurts to see the way Zack seems to crumble, but that only makes him feel like he's made the tough but correct decision of saying something now.]

I'm sorry, Zack. I just... I can't. I can't do that. Not here. Not when people don't have control over themselves half the time and disappear without warning. I just... can't. [Whether he's actually succeeding at that is another story entirely.

Tilting his head he gives Zack a brief kiss to the corner of his mouth apologetically.]

I'm good with whatever you're okay doing. [He gives his shoulder a squeeze, a fat more 'friendly' gesture. Just friends. Yep.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[All of Leon's words make sense to him but yet he still can't help but feel kind of sad that they have to make this choice between the two. Their conversation with rude had made him hopeful that he could still find love in a world like this, he thought it would be even easier here but maybe he was wrong.]

No it's okay. I get it I think. I don't think I could do the benefits part really. I don't want things to be meaningless. I spent so many years not telling people how much I loved them or what they meant to me but I see it now and I don't want to waste something so intimate just to fulfill a task, even if it gets me in trouble.

[The kiss to his cheek doesn't really help but he does keep his faded smile up and doesn't go back to holding Leon either but he also doesn't move him from his lap.]

You can stay here if you like. I won't do anything I promise but could you maybe pass me the bowl of chips over there?

[needsabreak]

[ He does lean forward and snags the bowl, passing it Zack.] Here, this might be more comfortable and you'll be able to see better.

[Leon slides off his lap and nestles in beside him pressed into his side, his head leaning against his chest.] This okay?

[He looks reluctant to bring up what he's about to bring up but Zack's comment about getting in trouble has him worried again.] Zack... speaking from experience... you do not want to end up in jail here.

Please, if you think you might not make quota please, please consider getting help from someone. It doesn't have to be me but I am willing to help. As long as it's someone.

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack takes the bowl and distracts himself by munching on the chips, not really wanting to have this conversation anymore. He just wants to have a friend sleepover and focus on that and maybe get Leon to sleep somehow. He's not sure how cuddling in his bed is going to work anymore though.]

Yeah it's okay. You can lean on me whenever you like. You're so light. [He tries not to move too much once Leon's all settled on him but he does go to pet his head with his clean chipless hand, a soothing touch for maybe the both of them right now.]

I'll think about it Leon, but I won't reach out to you for that. I appreciate the concern but I'll figure it out. You just worry about your own self meeting quota okay? [He doesn't offer himself to help with Leon's Quota in return, instead he just takes a few more chips and munches on those as he pets Leon's hair and focuses on the wall in front of him rather than the tv. He doesn't really feel in the mood to watch that gameshow anymore. He's got too many worries in his head.]

[needsabreak]

That's fine, but it is really important you find a person or two. [He really hopes he does. Leon isn't sure how messed up a trip to SLUT would leave Zack but he knows it wouldn'tbe good.

He reaches out to steal a chip, munching quietly as he watches the sequence on the TV which may actually just be poorly disguised foot fetish stuff. It's definitely... something.

It seems to be a marathon of episodes though and halfway through the next one, he can't help but close his eyes. It's warm and comfortable curled against Zack and he hasn't slept more than short catnaps for days.]

[1stclasspuppy]

I will Leon, I will [He just keeps petting the blonde against his chest as he says things he knows Leon would prefer to hear. He doesn't want him worrying about him. Zack's never liked people worrying about him. He's the one who is supposed to do all the worrying for others and make sure they are okay.

The moment does pass and the entire time they watch this weird foot show he starts to feel Leon become a little heavier as he hears his breathing even out. When Zack looks down he sees the man asleep against him and he can't help but blush a little as he moves some stray hair out of his face. He stays there for a bit to make sure Leon is totally asleep. Once he hears the heavier breathing he turns the tv off and carefully to not wake him up he picks up Leon bridal style, letting his head still lean against his chest and carries him to his bedroom where he lays the man down gently. Zack carefully gets in behind him and tucks them both in, letting Leon rest against both his chest and the pillow as he wraps an arm around his waist and tries to sleep himself.]

[needsabreak]

[Leon is exhausted. He's always exhausted. So, once he's asleep, he slips into a deep sleep. The slight jostling isn't enough to wake him and Zack is careful not to wake him. As the bed dips when Zack gets in beside him, Leon ends up curling against him, loosely draping his arm across his chest.

And he's good like this for a few hours, heavy, even breaths falling into a kind of rhythm with Zack's as they both sleep peacefully.

But his dreams are starting to turn nasty like they always do. His fingers twitch against Zack's chest as his breath catches and then speeds up for a moment before he goes quiet again. He makes a quiet noise, close to a whimper.

His dream is realistic, they always are. He and Zack are still watching TV when it suddenly flickers out and seconds later the power as a whole goes out. Zack says something about how he'll keep him safe, leaning closer to kiss him. Leon chuckles until he feels pain burn through his shoulder. Shoving Zack, the man has changed, eyes blank and glassy, the veins in his face black as he opens his mouth wider than he should be able to, lunging at Leon.

With an abrupt cry, Leon wakes up, his hair plastered to his forehead in a cold sweat, eyes wide in the darkness, scrambling to get away, his heart beating loudly, breathing rapid.

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack had learned how to be a light sleeper in his time at ShinRa. After all the time he spent sleeping in mako for years his sleeping got even worse. It was hard for Zack to get tired enough to sleep and when he did it usually didn't last too long either.

With Leon he is content in his sleep for once. He was so used to having Cloud at his side for months that it was hard to sleep with no one else around him. Of course it had been rare him and Cloud shared the same bed, but yet sharing with Leon felt right. The man's scent had lulled him to sleep more than the cozy weight at his side had.

The whimper is what starts to rouse Zack from his sleep. He yawns and stretches, still tired but slowly becoming aware of things. Rubbing his eyes in the dark room he looks around and remembers Leon is here. His eyes are glowing bright in the darkness, the only sort of light as he sees the man tossing a bit in his sleep. He starts to get a little worried and then suddenly Leon is up and awake and trying to get out of the bed.

Zack knows exactly what's going on, none of the details but he knows this is a night terror. He quickly turns to his nightstand to turn on a light and then is looking at Leon. He wants to hold him but he doesn't want to spook him more than he already is.]

Hey buddy, it's okay. You're okay, we're okay. Take a few deep breaths for me, alright?

[He has a hand extended to the man, taking a few calming breaths as example. If Leon takes his hand is on him but he's offering the touch to him.]

It's around three in the morning, I moved you to my bed since you fell asleep. It's just us, nothing will hurt you in this space, okay?

[needsabreak]

[Leon is wide eyed in the dark, rapid breath a clear indication that he's still panicking. He looks around, eyes darting, breathing shaky. As scared as he is, he's coiled tighter than a spring, ready to defend himself.

When nothing happens except Zack's quiet, soothing voice slowly pushing through the things he'd seen and felt in his nightmare, reality steadily filtering in.

Instead of taking his hand, Leon reaches out to touch Zack's face. In his dream, half of his face had been gone, ripped away before he'd turned. He looks fine now. Whole.] Zack?

[It's all coming back now. The sleepover, the terrible TV show. He lets his hand drop to his side again before rubbing it over his face, his breathing steadily evening out.] Sorry... I told you this would happen... [He sounds disappointed. Embarrassed. He hates that this is a thing.] I'm alright.

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack is expecting Leon to either pull further back or take his hand but he doesn't expect to be touched and not with such a shakey hand. The man is clearly very upset and this is very out of the normal protocol but he can adapt and so he leans into the touch, closing his eyes for a moment and smiling.] Yeah, it's me buddy. It's Zack. I'm here.

[He opens his eyes once more and places his own hand over the one on his face but Leon drops it before he can. Instead he does now reach for that hand and entwine their fingers together.] It's fine, I'm okay with this Leon. You aren't the first I've seen have issues sleeping like this. I'm actually trained in it, that's why I invited you over. I just thought if I told you that earlier you might avoid it but I want to help you. Is it okay if I hug you? Tell me what you need right now and keep the steady breathing okay? You're doing great.

[He keeps encouraging him, smiling the entire time as a way to show how honest he is in this moment. He does mean it that Leon's doing good. He wishes he could just wrap him in his arms and take all the pain away right now.]

[needsabreak]

[His gaze lowers to Zack's hand over his, resisting the urge to pull his own away. The nightmare is still fresh in his mind, Zack turning, half ripped apart, trying to mindlessly attack him.]

I thought you were a soldier? You're a shrink, too?

[He shakes his head, flashes of how Zack had looked, pressing in closer trying to rip his throat out.] No. Please don't. [His voice is quick and quiet, pulling his hand away to tuck his knees up against his chest and wrap his arms around them.]

I'm fine. I think I might get up for a bit. [If he was in his own place or even his Dominant's, he'd grab a drink right about now. Drinking was one of the only things he found that really helped him stop thinking. He's guessing Zack doesn't have anything.]

[1stclasspuppy]

Not a shrink, just someone whose had similar issues and helped others with theirs.

[He makes sure to take a step away from Leon and get off the bed himself. He goes to his closet to grab another blanket and holds it up so Leon can see.]

I'm going to make us something to drink, can I put this blanket on you? I want you to stay and don't move too much alright? I'll be in the kitchen if you need me.

[He has a feeling Leon wants to flee and while it might help in the here and now of things it won't if he flees so Zack wants him stayed and comfortable while he makes them both hot chocolate. He has a feeling though that Leon really doesn't want to look at him right now and that hurts a little but he isn't going to say anything on it, Leon's already stressed enough.] Do you like whipped cream?

[needsabreak]

[Leon gives him a stiff nod, though knowing that Zack isn't a therapist and has just dealt with this sort of thing makes him feel a tiny bit better.]

Something to drink? [For a fleeting moment, Leon is actually hopeful that Zack 'prescribes' to the same treatment to this sort of thing as he does, but he can only think of a few drinks someone would put whipped cream on.

He does wrap the blanket around him, more for Zack than because he thinks it'll help or that he needs it. He'd prefer to come with Zack, but he nods.] Yeah, whipped cream is fine.

[As soon as Zack is out of the room, he gets up and goes into the en suite running the water and splashing a bit over his face before looking at himself in the mirror. He silently tells himself to get his shit together and then heads back to the bed, sitting back down but forgetting the blanket.]

[1stclasspuppy]

Okay, I'll be right in there if you need me okay? [With that he goes to the kitchen and works as fast as he can to make some instant hot cocoa. He added whipped cream to both and even a few odd looking marshmallows. They are shaped like little penises as that was all he could find in the store. He thinks it might make Leon laugh a little and laughing would be good right now.

As he's making their late night treat he hears movement in the room and then the water running. It seems Leon did move and he sighs but he can't blame the guy. He hasn't made himself or this space a safe space yet for Leon. So he carries the drinks back in and hands one to Leon before putting his own down.]

It's still hot okay? So just need to blow on it first.

[He smiles for a moment, looking at Leon and his uncovered self and so he goes to the bathroom to grab the discarded blanket. He then goes to the other side of the bed and puts the blanket in his lap, fiddling with it a little.]

If you want, you can lean against me again or something. I won't force contact but if you want it I'm right here.

[He only moves to get his own hot cocoa and then he's blowing on his in the silence of the room.]

Would you like to talk about it, or do you want to hear a story?

[needsabreak]

[The sounds of Zack in the kitchen are strangely reassuring. Just the normal noises of someone making tea or whatever he's doing. It's very normal and ends up being unintentionally grounding. He's sure the more time he puts between himself and the nightmare, the less vivid the images are becoming.

He's definitely had much worse.] What is it?

[He's praying for hot cider but he doesn't think he'll be that lucky. He takes the mug, peering at it.] Hot chocolate?

[His gaze falls to the blanket, not even realizing it had slipped off while he'd been in the bathroom.] Sorry.

[He actually nods, but doesn't immediately move.] I don't want to talk about it. We can talk about something else. [He's not sold on the whole story thing. He does, however, shift slightly until his leg bumps up against Zack's. It's not much, but it already feels like a grounding point.]

[1stclasspuppy]

It's all I had and I hope it's okay. I can get more things if you want to visit more Leon. Maybe later we can go shopping together for food and stuff you like?

[He's trying and when Leon does move a little closer so their legs touch, Zack doesn't hide his smile but doesn't pull him closer either.] No need to be sorry, you've done nothing wrong at all.

[He takes a sip of his drink, getting a bit of whipped cream on his upper lip that he licks off.] Talk about something else...got it....[He pauses and looks down at the camouflaged marshmallows in the whipped cream.]

Do you like the dick mallows? I thought they were funny so I bought them.

[needsabreak]

It's fine, Zack. Really. It's actually more than I really need. [Although he does pause to give Zack a confused, questioning glance when Zack says he not only want to go shopping with him but he wants to go shopping for things he wants.] You don't need to keep things stocked for me, Z.

[Leon's lips press tightly together for a moment when Zack tries to reassure him, telling him he hasn't done anything wrong. But it just doesn't feel that way. Having a nightmare, sure, they happen. But he doesn't understand why they haven't stopped, why some people can go through what he had and more and not be the broken mess he's ended up. That feels like his fault. Like he should be stronger. Better.

Zack's question does succeed in getting him out of his own head and he slurps on some of the whipped cream if only to get it out of the way so he can see one of the melty little dicks floating there and snorts softly, cracking a tired smile.] Yeah, they're pretty great.

Is that the only dick-themed food you got? The cereal I have is also dick shaped. [In fact, it seemed like dicks were just the go to shape of a lot of things. Dicks and boobs.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack's smile does brighten a little at the nickname. Z, it's so simple but he likes it a lot.] I think it'd actually be really fun if we went shopping for groceries together. I never got to back home with anyone, just ate stuff they served in the mess hall or things my mentor would cook me mostly. Besides some fast food I mean.

[He takes another sip and nearly spits it out when he hears about dick cereal] You have cereal like that?!? Oh man now we have to go shopping together. You have to show me it, that sounds so funny!

[He does decide then that he really likes Leon's little laugh. It wasn't too loud but he still picked it up and had his face tint a little pink.] Your smile really suits you Leon. [The words kind of just come out and he goes a little more pink in the face.] I mean not that you don't look good without it either, it just looks nice I think! I just think I'd like to see it more and I'm glad I caused it this time is all!

[needsabreak]

[Leon gives him a dubious look, but it makes sense once Zack says grocery shopping hadn't really been a thing for him before coming here. It wasn't a mundane chore to him, then but something novel and fun.] Hm. Fine, but we can just find some stuff that you'll want too. You don't need to buy things just for me.

Mmhmm. Honey Nut Dicks.

[It's not even a joke, it's literally what they're called here.

Zack's compliment catches him by surprise and he blinks owlishly at him for a moment before blushing a little himself.] Thanks.

[He looks thoughtful, even frowning slightly, at what Zack says. His smiles had been pretty fleeting since Raccoon City... and the government intervention afterward.] It's a little easier here. [He feels like he's admitting to something, but it's true. As awful as this place could be, it was a different kind of awful from home. But he gives Zack a smirk.] Keep playing your cards right and maybe you'll get a few more.

[He sets the mug down on the bedside table and without saying a word, leans against Zack, nudging just a little at the perfect height for him to put his arm around his shoulders if he wanted, letting out a long exhale as he relaxed. He's not sure he wants to keep talking, or what to talk about, but he wants Zack to know he's done a good job, that this had helped.]

[1stclasspuppy]

Honey Nut Dicks?!?!?

[Zack's laughing so hard he almost missed Leon giving him that smirk and he does fully miss the blush on the other mans face. He's wiping a fake tear from his eye from laughing so hard and puts his cup of cocoa away.]

I hope I do. Your smile's worth it.

[He had wanted to hug Leon then but in a turn of event, the man leans on him and he turns red. He takes the hint and does wrap and arm around Leon, still sitting up and letting him lay against him as much as he wants.]

Hey Leon...mind if I put the tv on mute in here for a bit?

[His voice is softer as he asks. If Leon falls back asleep he wants to stay awake to make sure he can stop the bad dreams before they come and tv will help him stay awake if they sort of cuddle like they are right now.]

[needsabreak]

[Leon chuckles. It hadn't been too funny when he'd said it himself, but watching Zack laugh so hard he's almost crying is great. He's smiling again, this time because he really can't help it, just smiling to himself.

Once Zack has the laughter out of his system, he does get hit with a wave of sudden exhaustion, the adrenaline from his nightmare having subsided and leaving him drained. He gets comfortable against Zack, immediately feeling the warmth radiating from his body pleasantly against his side, only making him sleepier. The weight of his arm only makes it better.]

Mmhmm. Don't worry about muting it. I fall asleep with the TV on all the time. [The noise helps. People talking. He likes that. Or maybe he's just passed out on his couch so many times at this point that his brain has rewired to want the noise.

Muted or not, he knows he's going to nod off pretty quickly and he barely makes it five minutes into the show before he's back asleep. Somewhere between breathing heavily and lightly snoring, he shifts to put his arm around Zack.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack's laughter and smiles have always been contagious and it seems Leon isn't immune to them either. Zack's glad for that, he would feel awful if Leon didn't smile more and he's happy to get another beautiful smile out of the man.]

Alright, I'll keep it low and watch over you okay? [He turns the tv on, getting comfortable with Leon at his side and even leans a bit to place a kiss on the top of his head as he focuses on the random show and not at the handsome man in his arms currently.

Zack keeps his promise and stays up, not really getting too tired and focused on the show and Leon's breathing. The snoring is adorable and he keeps trying to focus more on the show. The man doesn't want anything extra with him, he's trying not to get a little attached but it's okay if they are friends right? Holding a friend who needs comfort isn't always romantic, he just has to keep reminding himself that.

With Leon almost hugging him in his sleep, Zack goes a little stiff for a moment, caught off guard but he quickly melts into the touch and just smiles, looking down at the sleeping man in his arms.]

Sweet dreams Leon

[He gives him a little bit of a squeeze before he adjusts the blankets on them more and shifts a bit so he can fully hold the other man, cuddling him like he's wanted to since he woke up from that nightmare.]

[needsabreak]

[When Leon wakes again, the room is just starting to get light, the TV off. He's lying on his side, still half asleep, warm, pressed close to someone else. He ends up closing his eyes and nodding off again, too comfortable to wake up just yet. But when he stirs again, he can feel it, hard, pressing insistently against his ass. Not quite awake yet, he smirks faintly in the early morning glow, arching slightly to roll his hips back, grinding his ass shamelessly back against Zack.

He's not quite awake enough yet to realize who is pressed up against him, but he sleepily reaches behind him to gently palm him through his pajamas. Part of him likely assumes its Hermes. They're big, the cock heavy in his hand as he teases him.

He makes a quiet noise before shifting, pressing his back more fully against their chest and pulling their arm around him, wanting to feel more snuggly held against them. At this point, he's half hard too but he doesn't want to bother his partner any more, they'll both be ready to wake up eventually.

[1stclasspuppy]

[ Zack was actually able to keep his promise for almost the entire night that he wouldn't fall asleep on Leon. It was only in the last half hour or so that sleep finally took him. The tv's white noise mixed with Leon's soft breathing and weight against him finally did him in as he had turned to his side and was sort of spooning the other man.

He's been out enough for his own dream and it is the first one since he's come to duplicity that doesn't have him feeling sad. Instead he dreams of Aerith and her flowers in the church. The light shines through the cracks in the roof, illuminating Aerith as if she were a heavenly angel. She smiles at him, a look that looks far too knowing and one he was never really able to read. She points at the door behind her and Zack's attention turns there. It's Leon walking in. The two of them talk and Zack can't help but think Leon seems to fit so well in this broken down holy place that others have forgotten. Aerith leads Leon to the flowers and places one on his head. Zack can't hear what they are talking about but he does see Leon look at him and smile and his heart feels like he skips a beat. It's a bigger smile than he's seen on the man and he starts to walk towards him and Zack waits with open arms. He hugs Leon and in his sleep gives the man a squeeze as well.

With Leon moving closer to him and starting to rub against him, Zack's dream starts to get spicier too. Leon's kissing him again like he did before, those soft lips against his are so much better than he thought any mans lips would ever be against his. He feels amazing and Zack holds him tighter in the embrace of the dream.

He shifted at some point, moreso spooning Leon from behind and with kiss in his dream, Zack's moving his head to nuzzle against Leon's neck. A bit of skin is exposed there and his lips brush against it, leaving the sleepiest of kisses there as he mumbles in his sleep.

The dream turns heavier as Leon starts to rub against him. In his dream Leon is rubbing him through his pants, asking for more, wanting to feel Zack's affections. It has the man practically dry humping Leon in his sleep. His grip keeps him in place as his hard big cock keeps rubbing against Leon's ass and back. ]

[needsabreak]

[Leon's somewhere between sleeping and wakefulness, dozing but aware. So, when Zack presses his hips forward, he stirs immediately. A bit of shifting is expected, but the first bump or two becomes outright grinding. He's so hard, despite the fabric between them, he slips just right between his cheeks, leaving nothing to the imagination. Leon doesn't help, arching his back to press back against him, rolling his hips to help Zack hump against him. He's hard too by now and slowly becoming more awake.]

Zack. [His voice is soft, barely a breathy whispered exhale. He's got to be awake, too, right? At least that's his assumption.

He moves Zack's hand lower, wanting to be touched as Zack practically fucks him through their clothes. He reaches behind him, cupping the bulge in Zack's pajamas to massage his balls as he works his cock against him.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack acfually isn't awake and very deeply still in his dream. His thrustinf starts to slow down a little, still hard but slower and much more tired. The hand at Leon's waist does move lower with his help, gently cupping Leon's clothed cock. He's drooling a little in his sleep, the wetness dripping from his mouth onto Leon's neck.

The dream is going fine until he hears his name. It does start to wake him a little but Zack's stuck trying to tell dream from reality. Leon in his dream starts to darken, the sunlight from before no longer shining on him. He says something that Zack can't hear but it hurts all the same. He feels like he might cry.

In his sleep Zack's thrusting starts to stop as he actually whimpers, his grip on Leon tightens as if afraid to let go. He even mumbles once more in his sleep, inbetween the whimpering.]

N-no....stay....le-...

[needsabreak]

Jesus, Zack. [He mumbles as Zack rubs and thrusts against his back. He's definitely hard now and Zack's hand feels good but nowhere near good enough. But then he slows and stops, the whole thing has him confused, especially as he tries to figure out what Zack is saying.]

Zack... I'm not going anywhere. [He starts to reassure him but the whimpers strike him as strange and it's only then that it hits him that Zack is the one having a dream now.

He turns in his arms, putting a hand on his shoulder, squeezing to try to wake him.] Zack. Zack, wake up. It's alright, you're just dreaming.

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack's dream is in no way as traumatic as Leon's but it still makes him sad. He doesn't want Leon leaving him. He liked the kisses and touches, he wants more too but the man doesn't want him and there is nothing he can do about it. It hurts.

The pressure does start to wake him up and his glowing blue eyes do start to open, watery and looking like he might cry. Leon's the first thing he focuses on when his eyes open and he still thinks it's a dream. It's too similar to it for him to think otherwise.]

Leon, please don't hate me. I like you.

[He really does look like he might start crying and he pulls the man closer and kisses him deeply, better than the previous kiss they shared. He keeps an arm around that waist, and a hand in Leon's short hair as he presses against him, facing each other has their cocks rubbing.]

[needsabreak]

Hey. [Leon offers as he sees Zack's eyes open. He doesn't exactly smile but his expression softens, obviously glad that he's awake and getting his bearings.]

It's okay. I don't hate you. You were just dreaming. [He tries to reassure him, carding his fingers through Zack's hair.

He's a little surprised when Zack pulls him into a kiss. He definitely doesn't resist, leaning eagerly into the kiss with a soft groan. Pushing closer, he slips his hand up Zack's chest. Their hips flush together, he shifts to ease his leg between Zack's, thigh offering him something to grind against.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Leon sort of gives a warning but Zack doesn't head it and instead he leans into the touches and feel of everything. He's still partially asleep and thinking this isn't real anyway. He can indulge in a dream and Leon feels so good. It's better then anything he's ever felt to have Leon in his arms, maybe even nice then Aerith but he doesn't let that thought linger much.]

Leon...

[That hand is warm as it sneaks under his shirt and Zack breaks the kiss to take it off, pulling it over his head and then his lips go to seek Leon's once more, so eager to taste him once more. He's moaning into the kiss, as his cock clearly starts to strain against his loose pants. The outline is pretty visible as he rubs it against Leon's offered thigh, his own wrapped tightly around Leon as the kisses deepen into full on tongue. Leon's sweet, so incredibly sweet to Zack that he feels like he almost can't handle it. He needs more, wants more.]

[needsabreak]

[To be fair to Zack, despite trying to reassure him, he is also being very, very distracting.

He shifts slightly to let Zack tug his shirt off. Leon had worn his boxer-briefs to bed but nothing else and feeling his skin warm against his own is electric. He parts his lips into the kiss, moaning soft and low against Zack's mouth.

Leon can feel him pushing and grinding up against him, so he snakes his other hand between them, cupping and then practically stroking him through the loose pants. He doesn't tease for long, easily slipping his fingers under the waist band of his pants, loosely wrapping his hand around his shaft to start stroking him, giving Zack more to thrust against.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[In what Zack thinks is still a dream, he keeps rubbing and thrusting against Leon to get some kind of pleasurable friction still going between them. He's had wet dreams before and this feels like one of those but even better so it's not like he doesn't think it's possible either. He's going off instincts cause if he was awake he wouldn't know how to react to this at all and would fumble over every touch. Wet dream Zack is much more capable then conscious awake Zack.]

Ah..ngh...

[He moans into the kisses as those lips part and their tongues meet in a heated dance, trying to touch as much as they can of eachother. His hands trail lower down Leon's back, grapping his butt not to squeeze but to keep him in place as he thrusts against the warm hand in his pants and that leg. He's not sweating but his body feels hot and slowly Zack is starting to come through the haze of his sleep but not enough yet to stop. In facnt he moves quicker, so close to an orgasm already.]

[needsabreak]

[Leon's back arches as Zack runs his hand down his spine, moaning into the kiss when he gives him a squeeze. The thought crosses his mind, wanting to kiss his way down Zack's chest to finish him off with his mouth. But his desire to taste him will have to wait for some other time; Zack is clinging to him far too tightly.

Leon squeezes him each time he thrusts up through his fingers, pumping his length with each one. The kiss feels needy and hungry, especially as Zack's movements speed up and get more frantic. He groans again into the kiss as he sweeps the pad of his thumb over the head of Zack's cock, feeling how slick he is with precum. Pushing his other hand into Zack's hair, he tugs gently, grinding his own hips down against him.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[This dream feels so realistic, almost too realistic. His eyes are starting to open more as he continues moving, the pleasure building up and the sounds of their bodies together turning Zack on in a way he's never felt before. He's so hard, so close, so needy. A moan leaves his throat and he hardly recognizes it as his own voice as he looks at Leon with sleepy eyes. Their lips keep touching and he lets the dream continue even if he is more awake now. Leon tastes so good and his hands are soft and different against his cock. It twitches in response so close.

Zack thrusts a few more times, the clarity of being awake quickly hitting him but it's already too late. He's about to climax. His eyes widen and he is about to pull away from Leon but the way the man grinds down against him in return, the way that thumb presses against the head of his cock sends him over and he climaxes hard against Leon's hand and his own pants.

He's panting as the fog takes over his thoughts, actually breathing heavy for once and still rubbing against Leon to get him to climax too. His body works more on it's own instincts then on what Zack thinks he should be doing.]

[needsabreak]

[Leon seems oblivious to the shift in Zack's lucidity, assuming he'd been awake since he started getting extra handsy. He groans softly as he feels Zack orgasm, making a mess in his hand, and he continues to stroke him firmly through it. He dips his head to kiss Zack along his jaw, sprinkling a few light nips in there as his hand slows.]

Good morning to you, too. [He chuckles before working his way back to Zack's mouth, sucking lightly on his lower lip as he grinds against him. Zack's body meets his and he rolls his hips back into Zack's hand that's still resting lightly on his ass. What he'd give for him to squeeze him again, craving his touch.

He's leaking a spot of precum against his boxer-briefs though, hard and getting closer. He's just not sure if grinding against Zack will do it.]

Z... need you... [He mumbles quietly.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack's awake and the realization is quickly dawning on him at what they did, are doing. He had told Leon he wouldn't want anything more, they both want two different things and yet here he is practically abusing his friend in his eyes.

Leon's soft mumble pulls at his heart strings as he goes along with it only for Leon. He holds him tighter, breaking their kiss to instead hide his face against the crook of Leon's neck. He feels so bad he can't stop the shaky tremble of his voice as he holds Leon and keeps rubbing against him to try and get him off as recompense for what he did.]

I-I...I'm here Leon....I'm here...

[needsabreak]

[There's no missing that tremble in Zack's voice. His instinctive response is to wrap an arm around him to pull him into a firmer embrace, turning his head slightly to nuzzle into his hair. His brain finally catches up to his instinct and he hesitates.]

Hey, you good? [His own voice is soft, concerned. He's stilled aside from running his fingers through Zack's hair. He shifts slightly, trying to move so he can look Zack in the face.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack doesn't answer at first, instead just shaking his head in a no that hes not okay. He doesn't want Leon to see his face now, doesn't want to show his tear rimmed eyes.

With the climax faded, Zack is thinking more clearly and it pains him that he did this. He hides his face further and doesnt come out.]

I didn't want to be a fling! I like you Leon, I like you a lot. I didn't...I promised I wouldn't...and yet....

[He pulls back to rub at his eyes and looks at Leon directly, looking like he might break down into tears at any moment.]

I'm so sorry.

[needsabreak]

[Zack's silence speaks volumes and, once he tries to bury his face again, he doesn't force it, holding him and waiting.]

It's not- [He sighs, unsure how to explain things, how to explain himself, or this.] No, I'm sorry. I thought you were into it.

But it's not like we're just going to do this and then I'll disappear, y'know? Unless the city has other plans for me, I'm not planning on going anywhere.

It's not like a one-night stand or anything.

[He's not sure anything he's saying, trying to say, is helping at all, but when Zack shifts so he can look into his face, he gets an uncomfortable lump in his throat. He shakes his head, hating seeing Zack like this.] You don't have anything to apologize for.

We can pretend this didn't happen if you want. Or... not. I don't know. I don't know, Zack. I don't know how to make this better.

[1stclasspuppy]

I thought it was a dream.

[It pains him to think that this is probably all hes ever gong to get with Leon, a dream of what he could have.]

I...I know you aren't going anywhere but you said you didn't want to date me. How is that not a one night stand?

[He's trying so hard not to have those tears welling up in his eyes fall.]

I dont...I don't understand it.

[needsabreak]

A one night stand would mean we have sex and then never speak to one another again.

And it's not you. I don't want to date anyone here. Forming a relationship here... I just don't think it's a good idea. I know you have your reasons to want to do it, but I have my reasons for not wanting to.

[He tries to disentangle himself from Zack a little, sliding off of him and letting him go so he can sit on the bed and look at Zack instead of holding him while straddling him.]

I don't understand it either, honestly. What's the big deal if we're good friends and sometimes sleep with one another? What's the difference? You can still romance someone. That someone just doesn't have to be me.

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack lets go of Leon easily and turns to his side instead. He pulls some of the blankets to cover himself up, feeling a bit too exposed right now.]

I want to sleep with someone who likes me...maybe even loves me. I don't want to sleep with someone who doesn't. It's special to me...I know it's stupid in this place to think it special but I can't change how I feel about it.

[needsabreak]

[He scratches a hand over the back of his head before dragging it forward and rubbing it over his face.]

I know, I know. [He grumbles, trying not to sound too frustrated.] You say that like I don't even like you or something.

[He gets up, needing to put more space between them for a minute. Maybe they both needed that, maybe not, but he heads for the bathroom, closing the door gently so he can wash his face with some cold water, shrugging off the last lingering inklings of desire and heat that had built up. He's only gone for a moment, half a minute at most, before he comes back out of the bathroom.]

Seems like I should get out of here. [He offers, looking Zack over.]

[1stclasspuppy]

But...

[Zack can't look at Leon right now, not cause of what Leon's done. Instead he just stays in the bed while Leon heads to the bathroom. He doesn't really say much else and when Leon walks back out he just watches him for a moment and still doesn't move.

It's when Leon is about to leave that he gets up, throwing the blankets off him as he runs after Leon and grabs him from behind.]

Wait...can we...we're still friends right?

[needsabreak]

[He jumps a little, not expecting Zack to grab him, surprised at how quickly he'd moved.]

Huh? Yeah. Zack... yeah, man. [He puts his hand over Zack's arm, giving him a reassuring pat.] Just seemed like you could use some space.

I told you, I wasn't planning on disappearing on you.

I'm sure we'll hang out soon. And... Zack... I just... - try not to beat yourself up about this, ok?

[1stclasspuppy]

I think...maybe space might be good but not right this moment.

[He holds Leon a little tighter, his hands holding onto Leon's own hand. He so badly just wants to just stay like this and get to give Leon the affection he deserves but he won't push. Leon drew a line and he will follow it, though sadly.]

You're leaving though right now...I guess I can't keep you longer, you aren't my contract...we're just friends.

[He lets go of Leon and takes a step back then. He sighs and puts on a smile for Leon even if he rather not at the moment.]

I won't beat myself up...promise.

[needsabreak]

C'mon, you wouldn't use your contract to force me to stay either if we had one.

I... I can stick around for a bit if you really want. I just thought you'd like... [He pauses, feeling like he sounds like a broken record.]- some space. Some time to clean up.

[Leon isn't buying the smile, turning to look at Zack with a sigh as he crosses his arms.] Did you... wanna clean up while I make some breakfast? And coffee. I could use some coffee.

[1stclasspuppy]

I'd never use a contract against anyone.

[He's a little sad that Leon thinks he'd stoop so low. His smile does fade a little and he looks towards the bathroom.]

I can wash up. I don't have many ingredients but I do have waffles. I bought some coffee too if you want.

[He is a little glad the coffee will get use. He bought it for others and not himself.]

[needsabreak]

I know. That's what I said.

[He nods, heading toward the kitchen. He washes his hands before starting to poke around, finding the waffles and some syrup and the coffee grounds. He can work with this.

It only takes a few minutes to get everything close to ready, so he goes hunting for the dishes.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack takes a bit in the shower. He really does scrub himself clean and let the tears fall now that he's alone. By the time he comes out of the shower the breakfast is made and he can smell it. He rubs his hair on a towel, fluffing it up but still dripping a little and pieces clinging to his face as he puts on a pair of loose pants and one of his tight fitting meme shirts, this one is of three raccoons.]

It smells really good.

[He comes out of the shower, still a little damp and clothes sticking to him in places. He wants to go up to Leon and hug him tenderly from behind, kiss his cheek and be sweet but he doesn't, instead unsure what he should do exactly.]

Thank you Leon.

[needsabreak]

[Strangely, Leon is sort of expecting a kiss to the back of his neck, maybe for Zack to wrap his arms loosely around him and rest his chin on his shoulder. Something. So, it feels strange when he keeps his distance. Strange but completely understandable.]

Hopefully, it tastes good. I don't do waffles much.

[He turns, two plates loaded up. His gaze briefly grazes down Zack's chest where the shirt clings to him like a second skin. He just hopes his quick glance hadn't been too obvious.] You got syrup? Butter?

[In the meantime, he walks over to the table and sets the plates down, sinking down onto one of the chairs.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack doesn't notice the glance and just goes to grab some syrup and butter for the table. He sits down and starts to eat his waffles, dumping more syrup then butter on his own.]

Thanks again, I usually burn these.

[He looks like he wants to say more but he doesn't. To Zack though he does want to say how nice it was to kiss those lips. He might stare a little at Leon's lips as he eats, a faint blush on his face.]

[needsabreak]

Yeah? [He slaps some butter on the waffles so it'll start to melt before they get too cool before drizzling a bit of syrup over them.]

I'm usually a bacon and eggs guy myself. Or sausages. [He adds the last bit as he shoves a forkful of waffle into his mouth, talking around the food before starting to chew.]

text; un: Peacemaker

[buttbaby]

Hey Zack, new bro just dropped:



Meet Double-O-Bonehead.

Re: text; un: Peacemaker

[1stclasspuppy]

[Don't mind Zack just practically screaming from the cuteness of that picture. Not like chris can probably hear it anyway.]

OMGOSH WHO IS THAT CUTIE DID YOU GET A DOG AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH CHRIS I NEED TO MEET THEM

Re: text; un: Peacemaker

[buttbaby]

Dude are you okay?

Did you get a seizure?

Re: text; un: Peacemaker

[1stclasspuppy]

IDK WHAT THAT IS BUT YOUR DOG IS SO CUTE!

[He loves dogs he's just incredibly excited and also his texting is stuck on caps lock]

[buttbaby]

Fuck yeah he is!

You're hereby appointed his Daddy #6.

After my BFF Laserhawk, my boyfriend Quentin, my boss Hands, and Artemis who really fucking liked him so he got in there first.

[And after a considerable pause:]

And me, of course.

[1stclasspuppy]

THATS OKAY I KNOW LIKE ALMOST ALL THOSE PEOPLE TOO AND THEY ARE GREAT.

PROUD TO BE DADDY #6!

[buttbaby]

If you wanna meet him you can come to my place.

Down housing 002-C.

[1stclasspuppy]

HECK YEAH!

WHAT'S HIS DIET? CAN I BRING SOME TREATS?

[buttbaby]

Dude he just eats whatever. I got him some dog food but he also likes human food, and sometimes he tries to eat poop.

So sure, bring treats.

[1stclasspuppy]

ILL GET SOME BACON FROM MY NEW FAVORITE PLACE, NO POOP I PROMISE!

[buttbaby]

Awesome.

Glad that you specified no poop.

[#Sarcasm.]

[1stclasspuppy]

WELL IM NOT GONNA CARRY POOP AROUND, THATS GROSS DUDE

UNLESS YOU NEED ME TO HELP WALK HIM THEN ID CARRY POOP FOR HIM

[buttbaby]

Maybe later, dude.

But thanks for volunteering to poop duty.

[1stclasspuppy]

OF COURSE! ITS WHAT DADDY #6'S SHOULD DO!

[buttbaby]

You're an excellent dog dad, Zack.

[1stclasspuppy]

THANKS!

I'LL BE THERE IN A BIT!

[buttbaby]

[When Zack approaches, he'll be able to recognize the room easily by the hard rock tunes emerging from within:

"Dominaaaaate meeeee youuuu smoooooth fuuuucker~"]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack's never heard hard rock so when he gets close the loud music is even louder to his ears and he winces a bit as he tries to get used to the sound, knocking loudly on the door and with a greasy bag full of bacon in his hands from the diner he visited recently.]

[buttbaby]

[There's barking from inside, then the music shuts off, and the door opens.

Bonehead emerges first, jumping up to greet the Bringer of Bacon head on.

Well, head-to-thighs anyway.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack can hear the little tippy taps of paw feet on the floor before the doors open and he crouches once he sees Bonehead and lets the slobbering on his face commence. He's laughing and drops the bag so he can reach in and grab some bacon for Bonehead. At this rate he won't even make it inside from all the hugging and cooing going on.]

[buttbaby]

[Chris just stands back and watches, not wanting to interrupt the pure joy erupting out of those two dumb puppies.]

[1stclasspuppy]

[Chris might be there for a minute or so since Zack's just laughing and enjoying the kisses all over his face in between the chewing of bacon. He does manage to take a minute to breath and is just filling that time with happy laughs as he is somehow now laying on the floor and looking up at Chris.]

Chris I love him!!

[buttbaby]

[Chris gives a huff of half-laughter.]

Dude. I'm pretty sure it's fucking mutual.

[Bonehead clearly can't get enough of his new daddy.]

[1stclasspuppy]

I hope so!

[Zack was SOLDIER's resident puppy so he's never had a puppy before.]

He's the cutest best dog in the world!

[Zack picks him up and whats left of the bag of bacon and walks inside with them both in his arms.]

Chris I don't think I can ever leave. I love him too much.

[He's rubbing his cheek against the top of Bonehead's head while said doggo is eating more bacon.]

[buttbaby]

You'll have to take him out on a walk eventually. He might wanna go pretty soon at this rate.

[1stclasspuppy]

That's okay, we can bond more on the walk.

[He takes a seat on the couch, Bonehead in his lap.]

Where did you find him?

[buttbaby]

Laserhawk and I were on patrol, looking for bad guys to jump, and instead...

[He gestures at Bonehead, the world's unlikeliest bad guy.]

[1stclasspuppy]

Well I'd say you found the goodest boy instead.

[He pets Bonehead whose still in his lap.]

Is that the kind of work you do for Mr. Hands? Go on patrol?

[buttbaby]

No, that's more of an independent project.

Hero work, I guess.

[1stclasspuppy]

Do you two need help with hero work?

[Zack perks up at that and so does Bonehead for the shift of Zack moving and for a moment both Zack and Bonehead have the same look on their face as they look towards Chris.]

[buttbaby]

If you wanna patrol with me, I'm totally game.

Bonehead, you'll have to stay home as backup.

[1stclasspuppy]

Why not bring bonehead and we get him cool dog gear?

[Oh Zack is more than happy to help patrol!]

Have you guys found lots of bad guys?

[buttbaby]

Because he's a big softie, that's why.

[Bonehead may have German Shepherd blood, but very little of that fighting spirit.]

We haven't lately. But I met Hands by interrupting him getting mugged by three asshats.

[1stclasspuppy]

Well that's a pretty good reason! So Bonehead stays here, got it.

[He gives said dog a scratch on his head, followed by a kiss.]

So you saved him, huh? I guess I'll try and reach out to him too. Maybe I can get a second job and then take care of multiple partners no problem.

[buttbaby]

You can tell him you have my endorsement.

[Is it strange to endorse someone he's only met twice now? ...Nah, it's a totally solid appraisal of talent.]

You got anyone lined up yet?

[1stclasspuppy]

Lined up to contract with? Well...hrm...


[He thinks about it and pulls his knees up to his chest when Bonehead gets off his lap to lay next to him.]

I met this one guy whose a cat person and he looked so lost and didn't have any winter clothes so I kind of hope I can maybe ask him. There was also this guy I went to the diner with where I got the same bacon for bonehead. Oh! did you want some?

[He holds up the almost empty bag.]

It's good! But yeah the diner guy was kind of....

[He just smiles to himself a little and hugs his knees tighter.]

I liked him too.

[buttbaby]

Nah, dude, I'm good. Bonehead can finish it off.

[He gives Zack a slightly skeptical look. This guy moves fast.]

Do you have a crush on both of them, dude?

[1stclasspuppy]

Huh? No I don't think so? I just like them is all.

[At least he doesn't think it's a crush but he would like to see them more and spend time with them more often. He really enjoyed the time he spent with them both. He'd like to keep them safe too, help them out so he would be happy to take them both on as his contracts if they wanted to.]

I want to make sure they get to be themselves and not worry about being submissives so I just wanna help. They both were fun to hang out with though.

[buttbaby]

[Chris just shakes his head.]

Whatever, bro. Sounds like you should contract with them both then. Unless one of them is the jealous type. Or a serial killer.

[1stclasspuppy]

Yeah? How should I ask? Do you think I should get collars first or maybe wait for the okay? I still think it's silly you have to wear collars.

[He looks up at Chris with his innocent expression.]

If they say yes I for sure need that second job. I'd like for them both to not have to work unless they want to. I gotta get another...or maybe two other jobs for sure!

[buttbaby]

Dude, slow down, fuck!

Don't get collars before anything is agreed to, that's fucking rude. And only get the jobs you think you can do, and that you wanna do. Okay?

[1stclasspuppy]

Okay I won't!

[He frowns but not at Chris and instead rather at himself. He doesn't want to mess anything up but he still doesn't fully know what he's doing and he wants things to be good for everyone.]

I don't want to be rude...I just...I want things to go okay. I don't have much more time to contract left.

[buttbaby]

Then you should go ahead and ask one of them. Just go "Hey dude, I'm running out of time to contract and I like you, you wanna do this thing?". Then proceed from there. Don't overthink it.

[1stclasspuppy]

You really think that would work? That does sound almost too easy.

[buttbaby]

Sometimes things are easy because they makes sense, Zack.

[1stclasspuppy]

Yeah that makes sense.

[He just rubs at his head a little.]

I guess I'm just kinda scared. I appreciate you helping me though Chris, you really are the best bro a guy can ask for.

[buttbaby]

[Chris punches him reassuringly in the shoulder.]

You can do it, man. Anybody would be lucky to contract with you.

[1stclasspuppy]

Yeah and same to you Chris. If you didn't already I would have asked you to contract as my best bro.

[He smiles a little and rubs at his face.]

I guess I should ask G'raha first. Would it be lame to text him or should I ask in person?

[buttbaby]

You could text him and suggest you meet up. Say you want to talk to him about maybe contracting.

[1stclasspuppy]

Yeah, man you're good at this. How do you not have like 20 boyfriends and girlfriends right now?

[He takes out his device and is going to do that right now actually.]

[buttbaby]

I have some hardcore emotional issues, that's probably why.

[Adrian warned him against introspection, but sometimes, this shit just comes out.]

But I do have one boyfriend, which is more than I ever had before.

[1stclasspuppy]

Whoa you got a boyfriend!? Oh I'm so happy for you man!

[Zack's getting up and giving Chris a hug now, totes needs to hug his bro over this.]

Whose the lucky guy??

[buttbaby]

Uh, Quentin Beck.

[He smiles and sorta hugs-pats back. Dude, c'mon. Be cool.]

Also goes by Mysterio sometimes.

[1stclasspuppy]

Oh I know Quentin! He gives the best hugs and has great taste in pizza.

[The hugs aren't like the ones from the other day and he does let go of Chris after a few pats in return]

I'm really happy for you man, seriously. Oh maybe you can get him flowers, I can deliver them for you too.

[buttbaby]

You know what? I just fucking might.

[Even though it's not very manly or whatever.]

I just need to think of something to put on the card.

[1stclasspuppy]

Oh, can I help?

[He did have a girlfriend once and she loved flowers.]

How about something like "You make me feel like the most special guy in this world" and then you can sign it love Chris?

[buttbaby]

Huh. That's a bit corny. How about...

"Dude, you can blast my dick anytime"? Heart Chris.

It's kind of an inside joke.

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack just laughs a little at that and nods.]

If it's an inside joke then I bet he'd love it.

Actually you know what? I think I might get G'raha flowers too. Even if he doesn't want to contract with me he can have some pretty flowers to make his room look nicer anyway. What do you think?

[buttbaby]

I think that's a cool idea.

I bet he'll like it. And if he doesn't that's his problem.

[1stclasspuppy]

Hrm...I wonder if Ororo could maybe put some frost on some of the flowers. G'raha has these pretty crystal marks on his face and I'd like to maybe give him flowers that look like him. Maybe roses with snow crystals on them?

[He smiles at the thought, he's for sure gonna ask Ororo for some help.]

What about for Quentin? Do you have flowers in mind?

[buttbaby]

Dude, that's like, super thoughtful. He'll love it.

[He's quiet for a moment, thinking.]

I don't know much about flowers but they've gotta be a mix of purple and red ones. After our superhero and supervillain uniforms. Maybe with some blue, white and yellow thrown in 'cause I've got those too.

[1stclasspuppy]

Aww thanks! I hope Ororo can do that.

[He gets a bit starry eyed at Chris' idea for flowers.]

Chris that's so romantic! I think we can totally do a colorful bouquet like that. Quentin's going to love it. Do you want me to maybe give you the flowers so you can see his face and give them to him yourself?

[buttbaby]

I dunno. I think it'd be cooler if you delivered them.

[And way less scary to him personally. He has toxic masculinity, okay? He's not supposed to give guys flowers.]

[1stclasspuppy]

Yeah? Then I will. You're the client after all and the client gets whatever he wants.

[If Chris said that out loud Zack would tell him it's more manly to give flowers himself.]

[buttbaby]

Thanks, bro.

[He slings an arm over Zack's shoulders, giving him a friendly jostle.]

[1stclasspuppy]

Of course bro!

[Zack just smiles and leans into the jostle, enjoying the physical touch.]

Delivery

[makeanentrance]

[On Christmas Eve a delivery is at the door of a box of (untainted) chocolates - assorted creams which are, typical to the city, in suggestive shapes along with a separate box containing a white scarf and a mug with the Creeping Bomber artwork emblazoned on them in gold - and a note: Best wishes for the season! Thanks for being part of the team! Here's to great film successes in the New Year! ~ Quentin Beck]

package deliivery

[needsabreak]

[A small package arrives in the mail the day before Christmas. There's a note in neat writing and a black leather bracelet.

'hey z, saw this and thought of you. hope you like it. it's just normal thing not like a dom bracelet or whatever. -Leon']

Re: package deliivery

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack's excited to see the present from Leon and he quickly puts it on. Next time they see each other he will for sure be wearing it proudly on his arm. He does send a selfie of himself wearing it with a bright smile on his face.]

Thanks bud! I love it! Maybe we can get matching ones <3

Christmas Delivery!

[legellely]

[ Christmas morning, afternoon, and evening, there are deliveries being made, and Elle has plenty to give. Zack receives a large tin of chocolate chip cookies. There is a card that reads:

"I hope you have a wonderful holiday and a lovely new year! Elle 💗" ]

text / un: strife

[meteorained]

( there's no lead up or anything at all. just a text early in the morning. )

Do you still want to contract with me?

Re: text / un: strife

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack thinks he might still be too sleepy when he gets the text, surprised and happy but also a bit concerned on why so suddenly Cloud is asking.]

Of course I do, is everything okay though? Why don't you come over.

[meteorained]

( it's really nothing concerning. he's just been thinking about it a lot since zack had asked him. )

They're fine.
Is it too early to do that?

[1stclasspuppy]

Early in the morning? I think it opens at a specific hour but I could be wrong. Do you want to meetup first and go together to sign a contract?

[meteorained]

Too early to come to your place.
We can sign the contract whenever.

[1stclasspuppy]

Nah I'm awake and G'raha is getting ready for work so he's up too. You can stop by anytime. I'd like to see you.

[meteorained]

Then I'll be there in a few minutes.

( which actually takes him closer to twenty, but who's really counting? )

[1stclasspuppy]

[G'raha is already gone for work by the time Cloud makes it over and Zack is dressed by then, eager to see Cloud. He's wearing a mechanic uniform he got recently for his new job. He's not working till later but he's dressed for it already. The one piece uniform is unbuttoned a few buttons down his chest, a black shirt covering his chest tightly and he's got the sleeves rolled off to show his arms.]

Hey Cloud! Morning! Did you have breakfast yet? I can make you toast or something.

[meteorained]

( every time he sees zack, it feels as if he's got a staring problem. it's the same now, eyes navigating to his chest before pulling back up to his face. he's handsome, and cloud is painfully reminded of those times long ago when he thought everyone in his unit knew how much he idolized zack. )

I'm okay. ( he doesn't need zack fussing over him. ) Is now really a good time?

( obviously he's got things to do since he's dressed for work. )

[1stclasspuppy]

Oh yeah totally. I don't have work for a couple more hours. I was just awake so I thought I'd get ready for it anyway.

[He goes over to Cloud and hugs him, resting his chin on top of Cloud's head and laughing a little.]

You have no idea how happy I was to get that message this morning. You did worry me a little since it was so out of the blue but I'm really happy.

[meteorained]

( he's glad that zack sort of seems to know how to read his mind, leaning into him almost immediately as soon as his arms are around him. maybe, one day, he'll feel comfortable enough to initiate contact first. )

I've been thinking about it since you asked me. ( because of course he has. ) I just...

( cloud trails off for a moment, leaning back to look at him. for some reason, his heart is starting to race. )

I want to be close to you. ( so he can take care of him in return. )

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack wishes he could read Cloud's mind. Instead he just craves affection and hopes Cloud will return it. ]

I'm glad, I'm sorry again if I asked you too soon. It just seemed natural we would...you know?

[He notices that look in Cloud's eyes and his own face starts to turn a bit pink in the cheeks.]

C-close? You mean like...close living together right?

[His dirty newly sex riddled mind doesn't think so.]

or...do you mean another way?

[meteorained]

( he shakes his head in an attempt to discourage his apology. it hadn't been too soon. mostly, he'd just been surprised, and he'd wanted to be sure they were both ready for something like that. as much as he cares about zack, cloud still has a lot to tell him that might change his opinion on things.

but those following questions catch him off-guard. )

...Whatever way you want to be.

( it's a low whisper, hesitating for just a second before leaning up to kiss him carefully on the mouth. )

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack's eyes widen at those words and when Cloud moves in for the kiss they are still shockingly open for a moment before he leans into the kiss and closes his eyes. He's stunned that he's doing this, going to do THIS with Cloud. They fooled around before sure but Cloud really meant...he had to have meant more, right? Zack can feel his heart beat quickening as he leans deeper into the kiss, pulling Cloud closer to him and deepening the kiss as he walks him back until Cloud's back hits the wall and Zack has him pinned there. Despite his actions he still has that deep red blush on his cheeks, the only thing indicating how shy he really is.]

[meteorained]

( there hasn't been anything like this between them since that first time when they'd both gotten drugged. but he's since learned that to be duplicity being duplicity and hadn't thought too much about it.

now... it's like a flipped switch.

the heat of zack's mouth pulls at something deep in his chest, and cloud eagerly pushes up to meet him, gasping into the kiss when zack pins him to the wall. still, he moves, curling his arms around his neck and urging zack closer. it's such a pain he's so short in comparison, but all he's thinking about is zack, wanting to be close to him and for zack to want that too. )

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack can feel it too, that desire burning through both of them, a need to be as close as possible. A need to finally be with Cloud. It's almost overwhelming as he leans down to better kiss Cloud, legs a little bent as his hands find their way to Cloud's waist and he's eagerly having those big hands sliding under Cloud's shirt to feel the warm skin underneath. He slides them further before he grabs that waist and lifts him to meet him, keeping him a few inches off the ground to kiss him better. His own moan of want and pleasure leaves him, wanting Cloud to know how much he does want this too. He didn't realize he was even craving it till it was right in front of him.]

[meteorained]

( he sucks in a breath between kisses, his skin burning beneath the trail of zack's hands on bare skin.

cloud knows he's wanted something like this for a while: experiencing someone without aphro or some other outside factor pushing him to do this. it's not even strange that they're doing this now, before zack has work and just minutes after deciding to contract for real. it feels good, and he wants — )

Zack.

( it's a soft sound in response to that moan, warm and incredibly turned on at the prospect of more, and with his legs curling around him, cloud is free to get his hands down between them, fumbling with the fastenings of zack's uniform with a murmured 'off'. )

[1stclasspuppy]

[It's different then the last time they were together like this. Zack's all for it as opposed to worried about being too much for Cloud. He knows now Cloud wants him, wants to be with him enough to contract and while it's not a confession it's enough for Zack. It's enough for him for now.

He feels Cloud's legs wrap around his waist and Zack's eager to hold him tighter too, keeping an arm around his waist tightly as the other grabs his jaw and forces Cloud to look up at him to keep kissing him. It's maybe more demanding than anything Cloud thought Zack capable of, it's not vanilla or soft like he's been.]

Cloud

[He whines almost too needy as that hand on his jaw travels to Cloud's head and tugs down so he can expose his neck more. Zack takes the chance to bite, kiss and suck at Cloud's neck as the others hands fumble to undress him. Zack's totally turned on and horny and the little glimpses of his mako eyes that Cloud gets when he looks up at him has those irises glowing as bright as if he just got an injection. There is a deep hunger in the way he glimpses at Cloud, as if ready to devour him completely but like a good dog is waiting for the command from it's master.]

[meteorained]

( it's intense, he thinks. he doesn't know what's changed or why it's different, but he's getting swept up in it, clutching at zack so he isn't pulled under.

there's a sharper gasp of surprise at the heat of zack's mouth on his throat, the sting of his teeth doing something to him. turning him on, and yet... it's so much more than that, straining to be even closer to him and realizing he doesn't have much room to maneuver with zack pinning him to the wall. )

Wait, ( he breathes, a soft command to steady zack's eagerness. ) Let me help.

( if he wants him, cloud is ready to give him exactly that. but his thoughts are focused on getting them undressed, unable to swallow the shiver that tears through him when he looks zack in the eyes. how much is he holding back? does he actually want to know? cloud's stronger than he was when zack had known him, but he isn't entirely sure how much he can take, unable to still his hands as he pushes down the sleeves of his uniform and then beneath the tight material of zack's undershirt to try to pull it up. )

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack's already left marks on Cloud but with how quick both of them heal they aren't going to stay for long sadly and so he leaves more and more, staking his claim on Cloud while he can. It's all feeling for Zack at the moment, his head feels a bit fuzzy but he doesn't mind cause everything around him smells like mako and like Cloud and he wants this moment to last forever. He loves this feeling of what he can only explain as being drunk off Cloud.

His teeth grace that slender neck once more and he bites him again, pressing his body flat against the wall and the erection in his pants rubbing against Cloud's ass at his angle. He dry humps him a few times, a whimpering noise leaving him as he's touched but then Cloud touches his shirt and it seems to snap zack a bit back to reality enough for him to pull away and focus on what he's doing. His own eyes are dilated wide and dark despite the intense glow and he looks at the mess he made on Cloud's neck, frowning at himself.]

Cloud....did I hurt you?

[his voice is heavier, still clearly aroused and husky but he does lean in to lick at some of the marks he left, leaving kisses on the worst ones.]

Don't....don't take my shirt off....you won't like it..

[He mumbles between the kisses, his actions a little less frenzied as he gets out of his uniform sleeves so that the bottom of his suit is hanging low on him, the hints of the underwear he's wearing showing and the tip of his hard, aroused dick peeking through.]

[meteorained]

( there's a quick shake of his head, panting a little at the feel of zack pushing against him. he wants... so much.

he wants zack too much to put it into words. )

Why? ( he's clearly not thinking about the answer to his own question. ) What's —

( his fingers graze over the recognizable feel of scar tissue when zack's shirt is partially up his torso, and cloud sucks in a careful breath, suddenly knowing why and overwhelmed with emotion. it doesn't translate to his face so much as his eyes, staring at zack and wounded by the realization of just how much zack had suffered before he'd died.

he sighs and presses his palm flat against his belly before abandoning his attempt at removing zack's clothes. )

I won't if you don't want me to. It's okay.

( he'd like to see all of zack, but he doesn't mind this either, pushing his hand beneath the band of his underwear to grip his cock and squeeze. mostly in an effort to distract him, but also to rekindle the mood and not lament over the past. he'd done that for years, and right now, he only wants to focus on zack in the present. )

[1stclasspuppy]

[There is confusion between how needy Zack is in this moment and how much he wants to take a moment and talk this out with Cloud. His eyes try to refocus as that lustful haze disperse a little and he comes back more to himself. Cloud's touch is electric and he has to gulp to clear the lump in his throat as he touches his torso. Dolph's seen it and still likes him, he could show Cloud right? But Cloud was there when it happened...it's different.]

C-cloud...

[He feels the hand move to his cock and he moans so deeply, wanting more of that. He does take a chance though and with a shift he does peel the shirt the rest of the way off him. His body is covered in healed up scars, some clearly older than the rest and not each one is from his final stand but those wounds still look a little fresh.]

I..don't want to hide anything from you...not right now.

[Worried of how Cloud might react he kisses him again, not yet ready to hear his response.]

[meteorained]

( he hesitates when zack says his name, thinking to ask if he wanted to do something different. but it's followed by the removal of his shirt, the baring of skin, and cloud's gaze focus on the scars, his hands stilling before they move to gently skim over them.

this is what had happened to him all those years ago. how zack had protected him, tried to save them both. some part of cloud hates that he recalls zack's death so vividly, that it's one of the few things that's unmistakable in the mess of his head, and he's conscious of the emotion welling up in his chest, in his face. the burn in his eyes even as zack sweeps him up in a kiss before he can say anything.

when they part to breathe, his fingers find their way to zack's belly and then to that place over his heart. )

You're beautiful.

( it's a whisper, soft and aching but honest. he'd never lie to zack and hopes he can one day see how much he cares about him. )

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack would have eagerly continued kissing had he been given the chance but then Cloud's touching him and stopping and he can't help the shudder of breath that leaves him when that hand touches his chest above his heart. He closes his eyes on instinct, worried at being rejected but then Cloud speaks and his eyes open. They are still dark and blown out with lust but also a sort of sadness in those dark glowing eyes.]

Beautiful?

[He mimics the word and looks down at where Cloud's pale hand is against his darker, scar riddled chest. He shakes his head in a no and places his own hand over Cloud's.]

You're the one whose beautiful. You've always been.

[meteorained]

( he doesn't know what to do with the compliment, and for a moment, cloud just stares at him.

there's so much he hasn't said to him or told him. there's so much building inside of him that cloud doesn't know what to do with it either, lips parting and then pressing together as his fingers curl lightly beneath zack's hand. what now? what should he do? )

Zack —

( he nudges their noses together, so close to kissing him but hovering just there. he needs to say this. )

I want you. ( and the pause that follows is muted by the careful brush of his mouth to zack's. ) No matter what.

[1stclasspuppy]

[It's too much all at once, Cloud's touching him, seeing him, being soft and finally asking something of Zack. With a breathe he moves and closes the distance that's barely between them anymore, kissing Cloud back with more passion then he had before.

He knows they should talk more, say something about the elephant in the room that's what happened to them but not now. the scars being called beautiful are enough for him he thinks in this moment.]

...Cloud...

[His voice is breathy as he pulls away for a moment to whisper his name in between the kisses as he works on pushing his jumpsuit lower on his hips so he can try and free his cock. They should go to a bed but he can't think of that right now. He's so happy with Cloud right now in this moment and doesn't want anything to break that, not even moving to a bed.]

Promo gift!

[makeanentrance]

             . . .                         
              \|/                          
            `--+--'                        
              /|\                          
             ' | '                         
               |                           
               |                           
           ,--'#`--.                       
           |#######|                       
        _.-'#######`-._                    
     ,-'###############`-.                 
   ,'#####################`,               
  /#########################\              
 |###########################|             
|#########,d88b.d88b,#########|            
|#########88888888888#########|            
|#########`Y8888888Y'#########|            
|###########`Y888Y'###########|            
 |############`Y'############|             
  \#########################/              
   `.#####################,'               
     `._###############_,'                 
        `--..#####..--'

Please take one of these harmless smoke "bombs" as a promotional gift for the upcoming epic, action, comedy film, The Creeping Bomber and help pass along these "bombs" to friends for thrills, laughs, and romance!

[Your character will receive a gift bag with ten small smoke canisters that look like dynamite sticks as promotional material for Hayato Gokudera and Quentin Beck's movie.

The smoke "bombs" are only small and for fun and absolutely harmless but they MAY contain varying levels of aphrodisiacs. Maybe it was accidental or on purpose. You decide.]

[theperfectamount]

log here

Text; un: smokinbomb

[bakudan_bambino]

‼️ATTENTION‼️ 💀👻ALL HALLOWEEN🎃🕸 HOES😙💅 ITS TIME TO GET ☠️SPOOKY💀 YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS👏 GET 👊FISTED👊 BY A 💀SKELETON 💀SHOVE✊🍭 CANDY 🌽🌽CORN🍬 IN YOUR👉PUSSY😽 AND 🙅DONT🙅‍♂️ FORGET TO SUCK😩🙌 SOME 💏DRACULA💉 DICK🍆💦😫 SO PUT 🔛 YOUR 👗👑COSTUMES👘👒 AND GO 🚪DOOR TO DOOR🚪 👀👅💦BEGGING😩 FOR THAT 😍GOOD GOOD😍 SEND THIS TO TWELVE1️⃣2️⃣ ☠️SPOOKY👻 🍑SLUTS🌮 TO 👁️ SHOW💁 THAT YOURE READY TO GET SOME 🍫CHOCOLATE🍫 COVERED 🍆DICK🌽

June 9th

[goldenfootsteps]

[An item has been delivered, wrapped up neatly, and comes with a note:]

Today is my birthday! Normally my people shower me with gifts upon this day, traveling from all parts of Tartaros to line up to see me. Yet I also use this day to celebrate them! They are mine, and I must treat them well. As I am far from them this year, I still want to continue this tradition, and you are one of my people. Please, enjoy this.

Mammon.

[Inside shows the gift is a gold-colored teddy bear.]

Re: June 9th

[1stclasspuppy]

[Zack instantly sends a text upon opening the gift and smiles brightly as he texts.]

MAMMON HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!! WHY DID YOU GET ME A GIFT WHEN ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY YOU SILLY GOOSE?!?!?!?! IM GONNA GO GET YOU A PRESENT RIGHT NOW SO STAY STILL WHEREVER YOU ARE AND DONT MOVE A MUSCLE!!!!!!

[He then sends a picture of himself kissing the golden bears cheek to Mammon and then instantly goes to get dressed so he can go find something lovely for Mammon's birthday.]

[goldenfootsteps]

Thank you.

As I said in my note, I also gift to my people on my birthday. I am their master after all, it is my job to take care of them and keep them happy. We normally have quite large and expensive celebrations for all to enjoy. I cannot do that here right now, so I chose those I am closest with so far to give a gift to, and that includes you.

[Don't move?] I am currently at work in the Down, I shall wait here for you.