( takasugi, of course, knows the group chat can be seen by all. he knows that when both are using their devices, there's a little notification at the bottom showing that messages are "read." there's only one at the moment.
still, he's careful to seem casually unbothered. just like himself. and if niki is offering, then he might as well take him up on his offer. he could've just walked in and demanded a meal, but honestly, that would feel a bit too pushy right now. pushy, when it feels like he's on the verge of bursting for things he shouldn't do, and for all the connections he's trying to pull at the moment.
strung out? maybe. but that's his business. )
I'm all for that And be sure to make mine with all the fixings Only, it'd have to be sometime tomorrow, or... In a few days Patho-Gen made an interesting proposal about another city, and who am I to pass that up
tomorrow's totally fine, but I can work with anything! just give me a heads up. don't forget you shouldn't go out on a mission on an empty stomach, though ♪
[He's maybe nudging him to come hang out sooner rather than later. For health reasons! Obviously! But Niki isn't pushy, so he'll accept his choice either way.]
sooo it's a date? [A brunch date, featuring a surprise guest, who maybe isn't that surprising at all.] you better not leave me hanging, boss!
[ Rinne strangles Niki like, "Why'd ya call it a date, Niki? Are you two cheating on me?! You two are gettin' way too chummy with me outta the picture... I ain't having it! Rinne's Revenge!"
Like choking him with one arm is his super move. He's completely forgetting that he begged Niki to invite Takasugi, of course. He's just feeling left out. ]
["Why am I being attacked?" Niki says this innocently, struggling against Rinne. "I was just trying to be charming!"
Which is 100% true, but Niki also knows Rinne gets jealous easily. He definitely pissed him off on purpose. It's better than letting Rinne sulk, either way.
Still squirming and pulling at Rinne's arm, Niki tries to lift his phone up for Rinne to see.
"Besides, it worked, didn't it?"
Now, they just have to see if he actually shows. And if he doesn't? Well, then they'll just have to bring brunch to him!]
[Niki being charming on purpose is exactly why he's jealous! But yeah, okay. Maybe being charming has its perks. At least Takasugi agreed to come. The thought of Takasugi eating alone lingers in his mind, the experience all too familiar. He's sure Takasugi's managed to get by so far, but that's no way to live, is it?
Which is why, when Takasugi's schedule finally clears, Rinne makes sure they arrive early. He and Niki pick a quiet restaurant near the park, its weekday stillness perfect for conversation. They even spoke to the owner beforehand; it was difficult for Niki to convince her, but Rinne's not leaving anything to chance. Now, Rinne lounges by the window, strategically planted between the two empty seats meant for Niki and Takasugi. His tail flicks impatiently as he scans the street.]
Where is he?
[The words come out gruffer than intended. Surely nothing bad happened to Takasugi along the way, right?]
( as it so happens, the renowned takasugi shinsaku doesn't arrive too late.
he knows better than to break an arrangement meant for him, especially when niki's consideration shines through time and again. for this group to stick together, they need to trust him. and for takasugi to create any impact, he needs their skills to push through past spring, with the flowers still hanging around just outside the restaurant windows, waiting for someone to come along and pollinate them.
so don't read into what's already said and done, right now, shinsaku. focus on the now.
when takasugi walks into the place, he gives a casual wave to a waitress to get her attention, and both their hair bounces as they chat. he strolls over to where she points next, one arm tucked into his jacket. )
And here I was hoping to try your home-cooking, Shiina-kun, but this isn't half-bad either.
( he doesn't wait to be seated, naturally, immediately just... sliding into a spot next to niki, smoothing out the folds of his hakama. without acknowledging rinne just yet. bye )
[Wow, he didn't acknowledge him at all! Ice cold! But Niki keeps his cool. The important thing right now is to act normal. (Or, well... You know. Their normal.)]
Oh, the cooking's already taken care of. [When Niki says he's going to cook for someone, he means it!] I convinced them to let me borrow their kitchen for a while. ♪
[He actually just finished up a little bit ago. He didn't want to leave a certain anxious, nervous wreck alone for too long!]
As a chef, it's really nice to have a good relationship with places like these. They'll let you use their expensive tools and ingredients, and you can even eat there for free! It's super useful for someone like me.
[Of course, it was not entirely his idea to come here, but Niki thinks it's best to ease their way into that discussion right now.]
[He was ignored. That makes sense! Rinne's just reaping what he sowed. But wait, isn't Takasugi the eldest here? Sure, Rinne said all that, but can't he be a little more understanding? Well, he's not about to beg for that... It's scary. Instead, Rinne chooses to smile as he watches Niki.]
People are always gonna want to eat, so Niki's skills can come in pretty handy. Making connections ain't so tough when you're low on cash. You just gotta work hard and be a lil' cute. [Is he talking to Takasugi? He's not even looking at him, so who knows... Either way, he's always proud of Niki.] Hey, Niki! Didja make those omelettes with the cherry tomatoes for me?
That makes a good deal of sense, both the hard-working part, and the cute part. I suppose I'm just lucky to have two incredibly talented subordinates along for the ride.
( takasugi smiles lightly back, recognizing rinne with a sweep of his gaze, at least. there's nothing stiff in his posture, no cruel turn to his lips. he's just here for the quick, pleasant get-together, where he'd really meant it for them to enjoy the reward he'd managed to pluck from the hands of those locals.
he lifts a utensil, waving it about gingerly while they talk. )
Well. I'd prefer to come at this from an angle where I look cooler than cute, but you can trust that I put in adequate work to be here. All it took was a good smack or two with their machinery, and maybe a little know-how from yours truly.
Nahaha... [He shakes his head, a bashful smile on his face.] I'm not talented, honestly~. I'm just muddling my way through.
[It's such a weird thing. Like, they're definitely talking about him, and Niki can tell, but it also doesn't sound like him at all. Cute and talented and hard-working...?! He's flattered and embarrassed and also in genuine disbelief all at once.
He looks away momentarily, waving to the waitress to bring out their food. Normally, he'd serve them himself, but he wants to be there for Rinne as much as he can, so today's an exception. Being a good host isn't as important to him as being by Rinne's side.]
I'm just lucky to be around people who kinda know what they're doing, that's all. So you guys better eat up! That way, you can keep doing all the actual hard work.
[They both work way harder than him. He can't compete!
Fortunately, the waitress isn't gone long. The omelettes are in sight...! This is a relief for Niki, who would really rather not talk about his supposed talents.]
Of course, I made them exactly the way you asked! [For both of them, but he means this especially for Rinne, since he just asked about it.] Gosh, I totally spoil you. I'm way too nice! I just know it's gonna go to your head!
[ Wait, Takasugi replied? Rinne's head turns so fast that he thinks he might have broken his neck. So he doesn't hate him for not replying after all? Oh, but Niki's here being humble again. He's so cute... He's not the one serving their food, and it's making this brunch feel even more special. He's only complaining to make Rinne feel more comfortable with a celebrity in their midst, isn't he? Ahh, that's his Niki!
Niki can probably read all of this on his face. ]
I'm not spoiled. You just love me. [ Obviously. Right? ]
Hear that, Prez? Call Niki cute all you like, but he's mine!
[ Yeah! This is easy to talk about. Rinne waits until the waitress finishes setting their food on the table, then leans in, fork pointed accusingly at Takasugi.]
You were shocked when you saw me, right? Yeah, you were. I bet you were waitin' to get Niki alone on a lovey-dovey date until he got ya to kiss him with tongue! [ No. No one was thinking that. Also, why is Niki taking the lead in this scenario... ] Well, too bad! This guy's not going on any dates without me♪
that's how this brunch is going to go. is that it? it's hard to maintain the cordial smile of a TOTALLY UNRUFFLED businessman when one of your juniors is goading you, but he makes that attempt, the corner of his mouth twitching slightly. as if he's ever made a pass at shiina-kun that way before, his other hand tucked neatly in his lap. and why's rinne's imagination of him so aggressive in th... well, nevermind why. he can imagine why.
Shocked, when you're practically connected at the hips? Not really.
( sorry, niki. he's right in the thick of this, where takasugi just completely gives up at this point. forget it.
if he doesn't retaliate a bit, and try to put rinne in his place, he wouldn't be a very good CEO now, would he? )
It's only thanks to Shiina-kun's generous invitation that I'm here. He really knows how to express his gratitude, unlike someone. Plus, he's almost always rather forthright with me, unlike someone. Though I wouldn't expect our relationship to take a turn that drastically, either, over a bunch of eggs I managed to sweet-talk my way into. We're not that close yet. If we were, I probably wouldn't let him go home tonight.
( as if he ever asked for rinne to do anything for him in return, or expected it.
all that's said while slicing into an omelette with his fork, and while working to drape an arm around niki's shoulder. )
[Okay. Okay! Calm down, Niki-kun. He knows Takasugi doesn't mean that. He's just... taking shots at Rinne. Probably. Definitely. But he kind of doesn't like that, either... Even if Rinne might deserve it. After all, he knows what Rinne is really like. Takasugi probably knows Rinne isn't a terrible person, either, though, so there's little point in trying to make Rinne look bad here... How should he handle this...?
Well, first things first! He reaches for Rinne's hand, urging him to put down the fork. He shakes his head.]
No, no, no one's kissing anybody right now. Just what kind of image do you have of me in your head, anyway...? [Like, hello? Sure, Niki likes kissing, but it's not like he's trying to kiss anyone... Jeez.] You already know how I feel.
[That's all he's saying right now!
He lifts his other hand to stop Takasugi's arm. Normally, he wouldn't have a problem with this, but he's gotta get this situation under control!]
And, um, I'm seriously flattered that you think so highly of me, CEO-san! Unfortunately, I think I'm stuck with this one for the rest of my life. [Takasugi doesn't have any interest in Niki, he's sure, but he says this anyway.] He's such a troublemaker, I really don't know what I'm going to do with him sometimes...
[While Niki's words say one thing, his actions prove another. He isn't "stuck," he's here because he wants to be. It isn't "unfortunate," it's actually very important to him. He isn't calling him a "troublemaker" because he blames him for anything, he's trying to cover for him. While Niki doesn't say exactly how he feels, it's probably pretty obvious.]
I know it's not much when you provided us with the eggs, but I hope you can accept this meal as gratitude on our behalf. [Niki says this confidently, speaking for both of them.] Come on, tell me what you think already!
Edited (I said I wasn't gonna add more but I added more, sorry, LOL) Date: 2025-06-17 11:35 pm (UTC)
[ Huh. So Takasugi was mad about that, after all. Wait, no. More like, that's all he was mad about, after all?
The color of mirth blooms across Rinne's face as he puts the fork down. He smiles and gives Niki's hand a firm, reassuring squeeze. It's adorable that Niki's defending him, really. If he weren't here to stand up for himself — to confirm how he really feels — Rinne might have taken a greater blow from that attack. ]
Kyahaha! You heard him, Prez. Back off!
Man, I think that's the most you've spoken up for someone in your entire life. God, you're so into me. [ Rinne doesn't know that, but it sure felt like it. He rubs his thumb over Niki's knuckles, and visibly so. Relax. He's got it covered. ] ...Thanks, Niki. I really appreciate it. I just took a risk and tried to see something... and it looks like I hit the jackpot.
Well, I took a hit too, but karma's what happens when you hurt someone first.
[ He places a hand over Takasugi's own — the same one holding his fork. ]
Sorry, Prez. About what I said the other day — just write it off as me having a moment. A rebellious streak, throwing a tantrum, whatever you wanna call it. I shouldn't be letting shit like this get in the way of work... No, this ain't about that.
[ He makes sure to lock eyes with Takasugi as he says this. ]
I shouldn't be scared of the people who care about me.
They should be scared of me! [ Aaaaand Niki's in a chokehold again. ] For richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, they really oughta see what's coming!
( it's true. he isn't into niki that way, even if it's easy to pretend.
anyone can uphold a performance with the right mindset, and despite his words and actions, takasugi lets them say their piece, the most surprising part for him being the way niki knows how to de-escalate. he looked down on him a tad, thinking he was the type who could be easily intimidated, but it seems that in the presence of his forever companion, he gains a bit more backbone. good to know. they'll need to be strong for each other, with the way patho-gen and other augmented are working to carve out their existence.
what surprises him even more, though, is the hand that rests on his, seeking to calm his petty attitude.
really. these two... )
I hear you, I hear you.
( what's he supposed to do, maintain the tension? it's not feasible in this situation, and it's not fun.
so takasugi does as he's told, smoothly carving the edge of his meal to shove a moderately-sized portion into his mouth. he's well used to these utensils by now, so it doesn't dribble off the fork any. the first couple of days were a struggle to make sure it all lined up neatly. and after a moment of thoughtful chewing, he's digging right back into it, the joy that only food can bring spreading across his face in a healthy smile. )
And you're saying you made this with the tools here? It's incredible. Seriously, the best omelette I've had yet. Mmh. You should go back in time, and teach them how to grill better so I can taste this sooner.
[Oh. Oh? Oh!! Niki feels a weight starting to lift off his shoulders... just in time to end up in a chokehold! Of course!!]
Why— are you like this? You're seriously getting the wrong idea here! [He's totally not into him? Don't make assumptions?? Niki says this while trying to pry Rinne's arm off his neck.] I take back every nice thing I said! You're the worst! The worst!
[LIKE, IS THIS EVEN NECESSARY?!
But ahh, Niki's so relieved, though. He can't believe that worked! He was pretty confident he'd be able to get Rinne to calm down, at least a little, but he had no idea how Takasugi was going to react... Maybe he shouldn't have said some of the things he said. Was he too pushy? Did he reveal too much? It's sounding like Rinne's starting to think he's some kind of capable person and that couldn't be further from the truth! He just... can't let this person who he's been looking after all this time get hurt anymore. And if he can make this other person happy, too, then all the better.]
You really think so, CEO-san? [He's sure Takasugi is just being nice, but if nothing else about himself, Niki actually does believe in his cooking, so he's really happy to hear it.] If I could, I would! Seeing a person's reactions to new food is seriously the best...! ♪
[He would know! He's seen it happen lots of times already!]
[...Why the hell is his cute and capable Niki even considering leaving him for Takasugi? It's like he forgot whose arm is around his neck right now. Well, Rinne will just have to adjust his hold and pull Niki close, burying the idol's face into Rinne's chest. Not sorry.]
Ah, ah. You better not. The last thing I want is for you to get isekai'd to a place I can't reach ya. Hell, us two being here is already a goddamn miracle!
[Which he thanks for gods for every day. Niki can't leave his side until Rinne makes him happy. Besides, if there's anyone who should be traveling through time, it has to be—]
We just gotta call on Prez before he gets lonely. [He nods at Takasugi, who, as far as Rinne is concerned, is enjoying his omelette in a very interesting way.] That cool with you, hero?
[The dead are something like gods. The gun Takasugi gave Rinne is proof of that. A quick visit across time and space — Rinne figures he can ask Takasugi for that much.]
he turns that thought over in his head while chewing. is that how he seems, or is rinne just looking for a reaction? the self creates. the self also destroys, and takasugi's self has wedged itself in between two men with his words, pressing them open and offering all the praise he can for their earnest efforts.
so, no. there's no way he's lonely, right? the egg in his mouth tastes like home. and right now, this group is where he belongs, regardless of whether they like it or not. a glorious happenstance brought about by the star of choshu, or something akin to that.
but he won't repeat that back, like he usually does, lest it becomes something he has to acknowledge. he just smiles. )
Like there was ever any doubt. I've got a responsibility towards the two of you, so regardless of how crazy things get, I'm ready to put my life on the line. But if you want to reach out to me beyond all this, you had better do it in Hagi. Hagi, you hear? And make sure you're thinking hard on it, so my soul doesn't get muddled with all the other fallen out there, like that total killjoy, Katsura.
( chew. )
Yeah. Celebrate and have a party at my grave.
( that's not entirely how it works, but. you know. )
[Hello? This is definitely not the worst thing Rinne has ever done to him in front of someone else, but also...?!]
What did I do this time? [He says... or, well, tries to say, but it's muffled, words drowning out against Rinne's chest. Anyway, the point is, he's innocent? Obviously, he'd isekai with him?? And finally:] At least eat the food while it's still warm! Don't you have any shame...?!
[He wants Rinne to enjoy it, too, okay??
Of course, Rinne is much, much stronger than Niki is, so it's hard for him to free himself and he can't look at Takasugi while he speaks, but...]
Hmm, that's kind of far, isn't it? [From where they live, he means. But despite that, he continues without hesitation:] I guess we'll just have to make a trip out of it! We can bring HiMERU-kun and Kohaku-chan, too. Oh, but Kohaku-chan scares easily, so you better be nice to him, Rinne-kun.
[He's not sure how they would feel about meeting someone like this... but if they're going to have a party, it only makes sense to bring everyone.]
I'll make sure to bring you a nice, warm meal! I promise the food will be even better with real Japanese ingredients. And then we can eat and party all night, or at least until Rinne-kun gets arrested for drunken misconduct.
[Just kidding. They wouldn't let that happen. (Probably!) He wishes he could do more for someone who feels responsible for them, though... It's not often that they have someone looking out for them. But this feels like a good start, at least.]
[Rinne's brows furrow for a fraction of a second. Niki does what he does best and keeps the mood light, but Takasugi's words don't go unnoticed. He's ready to die for a group he'd just met and a dream half-formed? The sincerity presses against his ribs and Rinne thinks his heart might burst from the weight of it. There's no need to put his life on the line. The age of samurai is over. Rinne and Niki are grateful for someone they can lean on, but if there's anyone who should be going all in for this group, it's—]
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no subject
Date: 2025-06-08 02:12 pm (UTC)still, he's careful to seem casually unbothered. just like himself. and if niki is offering, then he might as well take him up on his offer. he could've just walked in and demanded a meal, but honestly, that would feel a bit too pushy right now. pushy, when it feels like he's on the verge of bursting for things he shouldn't do, and for all the connections he's trying to pull at the moment.
strung out? maybe. but that's his business. )
I'm all for that
And be sure to make mine with all the fixings
Only, it'd have to be sometime tomorrow, or...
In a few days
Patho-Gen made an interesting proposal about another city, and who am I to pass that up
no subject
Date: 2025-06-10 07:06 am (UTC)tomorrow's totally fine, but I can work with anything! just give me a heads up. don't forget you shouldn't go out on a mission on an empty stomach, though ♪
[He's maybe nudging him to come hang out sooner rather than later. For health reasons! Obviously! But Niki isn't pushy, so he'll accept his choice either way.]
sooo it's a date? [A brunch date, featuring a surprise guest, who maybe isn't that surprising at all.] you better not leave me hanging, boss!
no subject
Date: 2025-06-10 07:26 am (UTC)Like choking him with one arm is his super move. He's completely forgetting that he begged Niki to invite Takasugi, of course. He's just feeling left out. ]
no subject
Date: 2025-06-10 01:37 pm (UTC)Now I'll definitely be there
( and, to sweeten the deal while acting like it's JUST THEM: )
✌️
no subject
Date: 2025-06-11 02:18 am (UTC)Which is 100% true, but Niki also knows Rinne gets jealous easily. He definitely pissed him off on purpose. It's better than letting Rinne sulk, either way.
Still squirming and pulling at Rinne's arm, Niki tries to lift his phone up for Rinne to see.
"Besides, it worked, didn't it?"
Now, they just have to see if he actually shows. And if he doesn't? Well, then they'll just have to bring brunch to him!]
action...
Date: 2025-06-11 03:07 am (UTC)Which is why, when Takasugi's schedule finally clears, Rinne makes sure they arrive early. He and Niki pick a quiet restaurant near the park, its weekday stillness perfect for conversation. They even spoke to the owner beforehand; it was difficult for Niki to convince her, but Rinne's not leaving anything to chance. Now, Rinne lounges by the window, strategically planted between the two empty seats meant for Niki and Takasugi. His tail flicks impatiently as he scans the street.]
Where is he?
[The words come out gruffer than intended. Surely nothing bad happened to Takasugi along the way, right?]
no subject
Date: 2025-06-11 04:39 am (UTC)he knows better than to break an arrangement meant for him, especially when niki's consideration shines through time and again. for this group to stick together, they need to trust him. and for takasugi to create any impact, he needs their skills to push through past spring, with the flowers still hanging around just outside the restaurant windows, waiting for someone to come along and pollinate them.
so don't read into what's already said and done, right now, shinsaku. focus on the now.
when takasugi walks into the place, he gives a casual wave to a waitress to get her attention, and both their hair bounces as they chat. he strolls over to where she points next, one arm tucked into his jacket. )
And here I was hoping to try your home-cooking, Shiina-kun, but this isn't half-bad either.
( he doesn't wait to be seated, naturally, immediately just... sliding into a spot next to niki, smoothing out the folds of his hakama. without acknowledging rinne just yet. bye )
no subject
Date: 2025-06-11 08:54 am (UTC)Oh, the cooking's already taken care of. [When Niki says he's going to cook for someone, he means it!] I convinced them to let me borrow their kitchen for a while. ♪
[He actually just finished up a little bit ago. He didn't want to leave a certain anxious, nervous wreck alone for too long!]
As a chef, it's really nice to have a good relationship with places like these. They'll let you use their expensive tools and ingredients, and you can even eat there for free! It's super useful for someone like me.
[Of course, it was not entirely his idea to come here, but Niki thinks it's best to ease their way into that discussion right now.]
no subject
Date: 2025-06-11 09:21 am (UTC)[He was ignored. That makes sense! Rinne's just reaping what he sowed. But wait, isn't Takasugi the eldest here? Sure, Rinne said all that, but can't he be a little more understanding? Well, he's not about to beg for that... It's scary. Instead, Rinne chooses to smile as he watches Niki.]
People are always gonna want to eat, so Niki's skills can come in pretty handy. Making connections ain't so tough when you're low on cash. You just gotta work hard and be a lil' cute. [Is he talking to Takasugi? He's not even looking at him, so who knows... Either way, he's always proud of Niki.] Hey, Niki! Didja make those omelettes with the cherry tomatoes for me?
no subject
Date: 2025-06-11 10:41 am (UTC)( takasugi smiles lightly back, recognizing rinne with a sweep of his gaze, at least. there's nothing stiff in his posture, no cruel turn to his lips. he's just here for the quick, pleasant get-together, where he'd really meant it for them to enjoy the reward he'd managed to pluck from the hands of those locals.
he lifts a utensil, waving it about gingerly while they talk. )
Well. I'd prefer to come at this from an angle where I look cooler than cute, but you can trust that I put in adequate work to be here. All it took was a good smack or two with their machinery, and maybe a little know-how from yours truly.
no subject
Date: 2025-06-15 08:32 am (UTC)[It's such a weird thing. Like, they're definitely talking about him, and Niki can tell, but it also doesn't sound like him at all. Cute and talented and hard-working...?! He's flattered and embarrassed and also in genuine disbelief all at once.
He looks away momentarily, waving to the waitress to bring out their food. Normally, he'd serve them himself, but he wants to be there for Rinne as much as he can, so today's an exception. Being a good host isn't as important to him as being by Rinne's side.]
I'm just lucky to be around people who kinda know what they're doing, that's all. So you guys better eat up! That way, you can keep doing all the actual hard work.
[They both work way harder than him. He can't compete!
Fortunately, the waitress isn't gone long. The omelettes are in sight...! This is a relief for Niki, who would really rather not talk about his supposed talents.]
Of course, I made them exactly the way you asked! [For both of them, but he means this especially for Rinne, since he just asked about it.] Gosh, I totally spoil you. I'm way too nice! I just know it's gonna go to your head!
1/2
Date: 2025-06-15 09:58 am (UTC)Niki can probably read all of this on his face. ]
I'm not spoiled. You just love me. [ Obviously. Right? ]
2/2 god
Date: 2025-06-15 10:09 am (UTC)[ Yeah! This is easy to talk about. Rinne waits until the waitress finishes setting their food on the table, then leans in, fork pointed accusingly at Takasugi.]
You were shocked when you saw me, right? Yeah, you were. I bet you were waitin' to get Niki alone on a lovey-dovey date until he got ya to kiss him with tongue! [ No. No one was thinking that. Also, why is Niki taking the lead in this scenario... ] Well, too bad! This guy's not going on any dates without me♪
( 1 / 2 )
Date: 2025-06-15 01:29 pm (UTC)that's how this brunch is going to go. is that it? it's hard to maintain the cordial smile of a TOTALLY UNRUFFLED businessman when one of your juniors is goading you, but he makes that attempt, the corner of his mouth twitching slightly. as if he's ever made a pass at shiina-kun that way before, his other hand tucked neatly in his lap. and why's rinne's imagination of him so aggressive in th... well, nevermind why. he can imagine why.
anyway. )
( 2 / 2 )
Date: 2025-06-15 01:47 pm (UTC)( sorry, niki. he's right in the thick of this, where takasugi just completely gives up at this point. forget it.
if he doesn't retaliate a bit, and try to put rinne in his place, he wouldn't be a very good CEO now, would he? )
It's only thanks to Shiina-kun's generous invitation that I'm here. He really knows how to express his gratitude, unlike someone. Plus, he's almost always rather forthright with me, unlike someone. Though I wouldn't expect our relationship to take a turn that drastically, either, over a bunch of eggs I managed to sweet-talk my way into. We're not that close yet. If we were, I probably wouldn't let him go home tonight.
( as if he ever asked for rinne to do anything for him in return, or expected it.
all that's said while slicing into an omelette with his fork, and while working to drape an arm around niki's shoulder. )
1/2 LMFAO
Date: 2025-06-17 01:47 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2025-06-17 01:49 am (UTC)Well, first things first! He reaches for Rinne's hand, urging him to put down the fork. He shakes his head.]
No, no, no one's kissing anybody right now. Just what kind of image do you have of me in your head, anyway...? [Like, hello? Sure, Niki likes kissing, but it's not like he's trying to kiss anyone... Jeez.] You already know how I feel.
[That's all he's saying right now!
He lifts his other hand to stop Takasugi's arm. Normally, he wouldn't have a problem with this, but he's gotta get this situation under control!]
And, um, I'm seriously flattered that you think so highly of me, CEO-san! Unfortunately, I think I'm stuck with this one for the rest of my life. [Takasugi doesn't have any interest in Niki, he's sure, but he says this anyway.] He's such a troublemaker, I really don't know what I'm going to do with him sometimes...
[While Niki's words say one thing, his actions prove another. He isn't "stuck," he's here because he wants to be. It isn't "unfortunate," it's actually very important to him. He isn't calling him a "troublemaker" because he blames him for anything, he's trying to cover for him. While Niki doesn't say exactly how he feels, it's probably pretty obvious.]
I know it's not much when you provided us with the eggs, but I hope you can accept this meal as gratitude on our behalf. [Niki says this confidently, speaking for both of them.] Come on, tell me what you think already!
sorry for the wait! 1/2
Date: 2025-06-20 05:17 pm (UTC)The color of mirth blooms across Rinne's face as he puts the fork down. He smiles and gives Niki's hand a firm, reassuring squeeze. It's adorable that Niki's defending him, really. If he weren't here to stand up for himself — to confirm how he really feels — Rinne might have taken a greater blow from that attack. ]
Kyahaha! You heard him, Prez. Back off!
Man, I think that's the most you've spoken up for someone in your entire life. God, you're so into me. [ Rinne doesn't know that, but it sure felt like it. He rubs his thumb over Niki's knuckles, and visibly so. Relax. He's got it covered. ] ...Thanks, Niki. I really appreciate it. I just took a risk and tried to see something... and it looks like I hit the jackpot.
Well, I took a hit too, but karma's what happens when you hurt someone first.
[ He places a hand over Takasugi's own — the same one holding his fork. ]
Sorry, Prez. About what I said the other day — just write it off as me having a moment. A rebellious streak, throwing a tantrum, whatever you wanna call it. I shouldn't be letting shit like this get in the way of work... No, this ain't about that.
[ He makes sure to lock eyes with Takasugi as he says this. ]
I shouldn't be scared of the people who care about me.
2/2
Date: 2025-06-20 05:19 pm (UTC)Eat up, Prez, or Niki's gonna get it!
no subject
Date: 2025-06-21 05:19 pm (UTC)anyone can uphold a performance with the right mindset, and despite his words and actions, takasugi lets them say their piece, the most surprising part for him being the way niki knows how to de-escalate. he looked down on him a tad, thinking he was the type who could be easily intimidated, but it seems that in the presence of his forever companion, he gains a bit more backbone. good to know. they'll need to be strong for each other, with the way patho-gen and other augmented are working to carve out their existence.
what surprises him even more, though, is the hand that rests on his, seeking to calm his petty attitude.
really. these two... )
I hear you, I hear you.
( what's he supposed to do, maintain the tension? it's not feasible in this situation, and it's not fun.
so takasugi does as he's told, smoothly carving the edge of his meal to shove a moderately-sized portion into his mouth. he's well used to these utensils by now, so it doesn't dribble off the fork any. the first couple of days were a struggle to make sure it all lined up neatly. and after a moment of thoughtful chewing, he's digging right back into it, the joy that only food can bring spreading across his face in a healthy smile. )
And you're saying you made this with the tools here? It's incredible. Seriously, the best omelette I've had yet. Mmh. You should go back in time, and teach them how to grill better so I can taste this sooner.
no subject
Date: 2025-06-22 08:20 am (UTC)Why— are you like this? You're seriously getting the wrong idea here! [He's totally not into him? Don't make assumptions?? Niki says this while trying to pry Rinne's arm off his neck.] I take back every nice thing I said! You're the worst! The worst!
[LIKE, IS THIS EVEN NECESSARY?!
But ahh, Niki's so relieved, though. He can't believe that worked! He was pretty confident he'd be able to get Rinne to calm down, at least a little, but he had no idea how Takasugi was going to react... Maybe he shouldn't have said some of the things he said. Was he too pushy? Did he reveal too much? It's sounding like Rinne's starting to think he's some kind of capable person and that couldn't be further from the truth! He just... can't let this person who he's been looking after all this time get hurt anymore. And if he can make this other person happy, too, then all the better.]
You really think so, CEO-san? [He's sure Takasugi is just being nice, but if nothing else about himself, Niki actually does believe in his cooking, so he's really happy to hear it.] If I could, I would! Seeing a person's reactions to new food is seriously the best...! ♪
[He would know! He's seen it happen lots of times already!]
no subject
Date: 2025-06-22 08:45 pm (UTC)Ah, ah. You better not. The last thing I want is for you to get isekai'd to a place I can't reach ya. Hell, us two being here is already a goddamn miracle!
[Which he thanks for gods for every day. Niki can't leave his side until Rinne makes him happy. Besides, if there's anyone who should be traveling through time, it has to be—]
We just gotta call on Prez before he gets lonely. [He nods at Takasugi, who, as far as Rinne is concerned, is enjoying his omelette in a very interesting way.] That cool with you, hero?
[The dead are something like gods. The gun Takasugi gave Rinne is proof of that. A quick visit across time and space — Rinne figures he can ask Takasugi for that much.]
We kinda need saving, like, all the time.
[Joke. Sort of.]
no subject
Date: 2025-06-23 04:40 pm (UTC)he turns that thought over in his head while chewing. is that how he seems, or is rinne just looking for a reaction? the self creates. the self also destroys, and takasugi's self has wedged itself in between two men with his words, pressing them open and offering all the praise he can for their earnest efforts.
so, no. there's no way he's lonely, right? the egg in his mouth tastes like home. and right now, this group is where he belongs, regardless of whether they like it or not. a glorious happenstance brought about by the star of choshu, or something akin to that.
but he won't repeat that back, like he usually does, lest it becomes something he has to acknowledge. he just smiles. )
Like there was ever any doubt. I've got a responsibility towards the two of you, so regardless of how crazy things get, I'm ready to put my life on the line. But if you want to reach out to me beyond all this, you had better do it in Hagi. Hagi, you hear? And make sure you're thinking hard on it, so my soul doesn't get muddled with all the other fallen out there, like that total killjoy, Katsura.
( chew. )
Yeah. Celebrate and have a party at my grave.
( that's not entirely how it works, but. you know. )
no subject
Date: 2025-06-24 04:16 am (UTC)What did I do this time? [He says... or, well, tries to say, but it's muffled, words drowning out against Rinne's chest. Anyway, the point is, he's innocent? Obviously, he'd isekai with him?? And finally:] At least eat the food while it's still warm! Don't you have any shame...?!
[He wants Rinne to enjoy it, too, okay??
Of course, Rinne is much, much stronger than Niki is, so it's hard for him to free himself and he can't look at Takasugi while he speaks, but...]
Hmm, that's kind of far, isn't it? [From where they live, he means. But despite that, he continues without hesitation:] I guess we'll just have to make a trip out of it! We can bring HiMERU-kun and Kohaku-chan, too. Oh, but Kohaku-chan scares easily, so you better be nice to him, Rinne-kun.
[He's not sure how they would feel about meeting someone like this... but if they're going to have a party, it only makes sense to bring everyone.]
I'll make sure to bring you a nice, warm meal! I promise the food will be even better with real Japanese ingredients. And then we can eat and party all night, or at least until Rinne-kun gets arrested for drunken misconduct.
[Just kidding. They wouldn't let that happen. (Probably!) He wishes he could do more for someone who feels responsible for them, though... It's not often that they have someone looking out for them. But this feels like a good start, at least.]
1/2
Date: 2025-06-24 06:44 pm (UTC)2/2
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From:it sent too early but now i'm 🎀
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