forum Love? You think this is out of love?

Started February 19, 2021 by @Fenrir

tune

Thankfully the cold breeze was not bad. The back of his arms were covered in goosebumps; now covered with the silk robe. Malachi did not seem to mind any of it. As long as he is covered, then that's all that matters for him. Sometimes there are servants who see him half-clothed and he has picked up on them being timid or uncomfortable. Some of them still act stiff around him. He only wished to be somewhat approachable, although with his position, it would always be difficult on both ends. Maybe with Abrose, this would help diffuse the perception that the servants hold.

A smirk settled upon his face. Wrapping his other arm around Abrose's waist, he pulled his husband in towards him. He lowered his head to whisper in his husband's ear, "Aren't I lucky to have your eyes on me? You haven't seen me in all of my glory yet, although that can be subjected to change, of course."

He gaze around the place. It is quite drafty in here. "It will only be like this for a little longer; soon it will be summer. We are more up north in Atrovia, although I have been told it tends to get chilly in here," He shrugged. "Rest assured, you will be much warmer when we get breakfast. I had asked them to make some traditional Carnelian breakfast for us."

Abrose gasped softly at being pulled in and suddenly being so close to Malachi. Surprised but not uncomfortable. A shiver ran down his spine as Malachi's breath carressed his ear, his low voice like honey, seductively sweet and silky smooth. Abrose was glad Malachi had his arm around his waist because if not he was sure he would be standing upright. He breathed a flustered laugh "that is certainly something I look forwards to then. You're very tempting, my love." He murmured, his smile remaining as they continued their walk.
He tugged the robe malachi had given him a while back closer to himself, having grabbed it before he had left the bedroom. "It's still something I'm getting used to but it's not uncomfortable." His eyes widened and he broke out into an excited smile. "Really? You had a carnelian breakfast made?" He asked in disbelief, having trueoy missed his homeland's food. While he did find Atrovian food delicious, on the days he had been homesick for Carniel, he had been craving their food. His favored memories had been centered around food, his father having taking the entire family out to an old tavern in the village to eat for special occasions, the best food coming from the most run down places.
"Thank you, Malachi."

"Guess we will have to wait and see then, huh?" Malschi smirked. He strolled alongside Abrose. The draft remained, yet he didn't realize it much. In the corner of his eye, he admired Abrose. He admired the way those rose pink lips curled up into a smile. They looked delicate. They shined in the sunlight that beamed through the windows.

The immediate excitment made him stop. His response was delayed. Something about the way Abrose's eyes shining brightly froze him. The excitment from his husband seeped into himself. He could feel his face warm up as he nodded. There was no sufficient way of responding, other than giving a nod; he worried that he would stutter or blurt something foolish, but that doesn't matter.

"I worried about you feeling homesick, so I thought having a traditional breakfast from home might help," He admitted. His name sounded sweet coming off of Abrose's tongue; it felt natural. Malachi kissed the side of his husband's cheek. "It is my pleasure, Abrose," He breathed. "Come on, my beloved. I don't wish for you eat it cold."

"I wonder how long that patience will last," Abrose mused, arching an eyebrow when he caught Malachi watching him, then suddenly stopping. He smiled, his attention stollen by the smell of food and tinking of plates and utensils coming from the other side of a set of double doors at the end of the hall.

"I'll admit I was starting to miss home. Don't get me wrong, I love Atrovia. The people, the kingdom, you, its all wonderful. But Carniel…its all I've ever known. to be so far from it and my siblings…" he took in a deep breath and gave a small smile, "its been a lot all at once. But we'll get to visit soon." he reassured, more for himself but he still felt like he needed to say it outloud.

He blinked at the kiss, and then at the reminder of food, which got him excited again. "I don't think any nickname you could come up with will have quite the same effect as when you say my name like that." He murmured, gently tugging open the doors to the dining room, gasping when he say the array of food on the table. A variety of pastries and breads was surrounded by a plate of tender meats and a broth of warm soup, creamy and milky white. an array of fresh fruit and what Abrose hoped was one of Carniel's favorite drinks was off to the side. Before he dug in, he turned to the Villa staff and bowed deeply, "Thank you so much." he then turned to Malachi and again bowed, "and thank you again, Malachi." He then found the nearest plate and started filling it with food, only now realize just how hungry he was.

Malachi gazed off to the side. Briefly, he covered his mouth using his sleeve in order to clear his throat. "Patience is a virtue," He laughed. "Who knows? Only time will tell." He gave his husband a playful wink then went back to looking around as they walked. Sometimes he is the most patient man there is, but then there are moments where he cannot wait a single second for something. Yet whenever he is with Abrose, time is not a concern for him.

His husband's words reminded him of something, rather someone. While he never met her, he understood that his mother shared a similar sentiment that Abrose vocalized. Of course the late queen was an ocean a part from her homeland, being away from home has no minimum distance. And if one were having to base the rest of their lives in the country of their spouse, it would be a lot. Malachi did his best to give his husband a reassuring smile. He only wants the best for Abrose that includes what comes from him. "I understand. I will try my best to bring Carniel to you and Atrovia," He promised, "Who knows? Maybe with this solidified alliance, the two kingdoms will adopt exchanged cultural practices one day. Although, for the time being, we will have to settle on having this meal."

Closing the doors behind him, he stood and watch. Frankly, he is not much of a breakfast person, but he knew of the importance of having a meal this early in the day. Not to mention how he enjoys watching Abrose's reactions; they are beyond adorable. Although Malachi almost jumped forward with his arm out as a way of saying there is no need to bow at the servants or him really, but it was not an issue. He sighed then turned to the servants to thank them himself. Afterwards, he motioned for them to go off for a while. "Of course, my Abrose. Anything to make you happy," He beamed while sitting down.

"I can already tell you if there is more food like this," he gestured towards the pastries he had piled on his plate and then to the food displayed on the table, "I will be the happiest man in the world. Anything on top of this is more than I deserve." He paused before digging into his plate of delicious breakfast and reached for Malachi's hand, gently resting his on top. "I would love nothing more than for our kingdoms to learn and grow from one another. To be able to share resources, stories, cultures, experiences." He bit his lip with a little, hopeful smile. "It might be a while until that happens but until then, I think you're right, my love. Food is definitely a great place to start."
He unraveled the utensils from the napkins, and started to cut small pieces off of slice of sweetened toast, dipped it into some lavender honey and topped off the forkful with a slice of strawberry.
"Please, enjoy yourselves. Theres plenty for all of us and I certainly doubt I or Malachi could finish this all off by ourselves." Abrose invited the servants, waving them over towards the plates. "I'd hate for all this delicious food go to waste."
Abrose was still getting used to a more typical royal dynamic where the royal family and servants were treated differently. Back in Carniel, most of the time the work was shared equally, considering the kingdom was too poor to be able to afford many luxuries such as servants. As the youngest, Abrose usually helped out the most until he old enough to understand kingdom politics alongside his brother and sister. He knew it was different in Atrovia and what he assumed other kingdoms, but he thought it'd be alright in this situation. It was their honeymoon, there wasn't much need for others to do menial tasks as much as back at the castle.

"I am sure that they will in due time. Not only will they connect together, but with the rest of the world too. I am drafting plans to do so, I am sure you will love them." As he spoke, he began to place some things onto his plate. Nothing much except for two pieces of toast along with some slices of fruit and a few pastries.

Malachi sat there while staring over at Abrose. He forgot about the institutional differences between Atrovia and Carniel. While both prioritize communication across all classes, they have entirely different approaches. Even Maehwa, his mother's homeland, it's different. In Atrovia, the servants prepare food for the royal family and themselves. Royal family eats first in the dining room while the servants are on break. Then afterwards they eat in the kitchen before taking care of cleaning everything up. Sometimes royal members eat alone at different times. It all depends, but there are clear distinctions and rules. For as much as they are secular when it comes to certain aspects, they still are classical in others.

The servants were at a standstill. All of them hesitantly stared over at the king. Some of them even looked away with flushed faces. "Will you all please give His Highness and I a moment alone?" Malachi asked while giving them all a soft smile. "It's alright. I will call for you when needed. Thank you." They all bowed then made their way back to the kitchen. He sat there waiting till he heard the door click shut.

There was only a few things on his plate. By the time he will finish everything, he will be fine till tea time. Again, he is not one to eat much during breakfast. "Do not worry, they take this time now for a break then I will bring the rest over to them," He assured Abrose, "Go on, enjoy as much as you want to, my dear. As you said, there will be much left for them to enjoy. I am sure they appreciated your kindness too."

Abrose's smile faltered a bit when no one moved, he looked over at the unmoving servants and then at Malachi, then his smile faded. He couldn't help but feel as if he had said something wrong as he turned back to his plate and poked at the food. Although the idea of him and Malachi alone was thrilling, he had always been used to the presence of other people, nobles and common people alike constantly around him.

It was rare when his family didn't share dinner with the staff at the castle, mingling and sharing stories or just every day events. They were family despite not being related, as much as a part of Abrose's upbringing as much as Chire or Lilly. It had never crossed his mind that the royal family would eat separately from the servants and staff. Class was never an important construct in Carniel. The Royal family was to protect everyone, was to lead everyone. Decisions were made together as much as possible. It had never been the royal family being above anyone else. Not that he thought of Atrovia that was but it was still unfamiliar to Abrose. Uncomfortably so if he were being honest.

Abrose took a deep breath and nodded, a smile flickering across his features. He could understand the need for time alone. Not just for him and Malachi but for the others as well. It wasn't everyday they could go to such a lovely place and relax. It comforted Abrose in way knowing they'd have a chance to enjoy the honeymoon. He took another bite of food, marveling at how close it tasted to the food back home. He glanced over to Malachi and gently tapped his plate with then end of his fork. "Not much of a breakfast person?" he asked, brows creasing slightly in concern when he saw how empty Malachi's plate was.

Malachi was not sure what to say or if he should say anything. His purpose was not to belittle his husband in any shape or form. Things are the way they are and he simply cannot change everything instantly. He wanted to say that Abrose said nor did anything wrong, yet it seemed the window of opportunity had closed.

"Hm, pardon?" He looked up at Abrose. Biting the inside of his lip, he tried to piece together the question. He stared down at his plate then returned his gaze to his husband. The distance of the table (though smaller than the one in the palace) bothered him. Not necessarily the table, but between them bothered him. And yet, he realized that he hadn't answered the question.

He shrugged. "I usually ask someone to bring me a small plate while I work in my study," He responded. "Never really seemed to have an appetite this early in the day." Sometimes he doesn't have an appetite for any meals, though he decided to table that tidbit.

After clearing his throat, Malachi stood up. Taking his plate, he strolled over and placed it on the left side of the table close to Abrose. He then went to grab the chair then placed it. Sitting down, he felt better now that he isn't so far away from his husband. "There we go, much better," He smiled.

Abrose nodded slightly though he wasn't thrilled to see such little little food on Malachi's plate, especially after skipping dinner last night. "ah I see. Then we'll make sure you eat a good dinner later on at the very least. What sort of husband would I be if I let you go without a good meal." It wasn't so much of an offer as much as a promise. He'd make the dinner himself if he had to as to ensure Malachi ate well.
He glanced up as Malachi moved his chair beside him, an amused smile gracing his features. "Is it now? Were the plates of food creating too far of a distance between us?" He chuckled softly and gently interlaced their free hands together.
He nudged his now empty plate to the side and took a generous gulp of his drink, refreshing and sweet.
"So what's on the honeymoon agenda, today?" He asked, rubbing the back of Malachi's hand with the back of his thumb. "You mentioned there was a village nearby that specialized in glass making, perhaps we could visit?"

Finally, he began to eat what he had on his plate. Every now and then, he would take a small sip fron his cup. After carefully setting the cup down, he glimpsed over at his husband. "Oh you…" He rolled his eyes while his face flushed pink. "You know I am still used to being by myself in a lot situations from breakfast to dinner."

Malachi stared down at their hands. He shrugged. Is there anything on their schedule today? "I don't believe there's anything for us to do," He hummed. "I am pretty sure I reserved this day for the two of us to relax from the wedding and the trip here. Although I can plan a trip to the village tomorrow. I'll have to send an itinerary to the regional officer."

His mind laid out a plan. It's a whole process, but he should have it done by the end of the day. He sighed then looked up at Abrose. "We could visit tomorrow. I have to arrange it today. Would that be alright?"

Abrose giggled at seeing Malachi flustered, glad to know he wasn't the only always blushing at every comment. "I do, that doesn't mean you should go without eating for so long though. If its more comfortable for you we can also take a few hours to ourselves just to relax. I wouldn't mind if you want some hours alone to yourself." he suggested, not entirely sure of what he would do alone for an hour or so but he was sure he could find a way to entertain himself.

"Relaxing for the day does sound nice," he agreed, having not realized just how exhausted he had been from the wedding until he fell asleep last night. Even now he still felt a sense of heaviness from being so high strung and excited the past few weeksIt would be nice to rest and not worry about anything for a day, whether that be back in bed or on the beach.

"You've never been one to do things spontaneously, have you?" He asked, chuckling softly at the idea of needing to notify the regional officer of their visit. Abrose and his siblings were often times out and about the village if they didn't have anything to do at the castle. They'd help out at a restaurant kitchen or hung out with the kids who's parents were out working. Anything to be with their people, they'd do. But again, Abrose realized things were different in Atrovia. He was king consort now. Things were done a certain way both for the citizens and his benefit and safety. Abrose finished off his drink and let go of Malachi's hand so he could eat. "Tomorrow it is then. Hopefully we'll find some glass jars for the souvenirs and some trinkets to bring back to Lily and Chire."

"If that is what you want, I do not mind." Maybe Abrose can take a look at more of the books in the library. There's so many that he hasn't had the chance to read yet. Malachi reached forward to comb through Abrose's hair. His face was still flushed. "I am sorry, my dear," He sighed. "I will have everything ready in the morning, and you can get all the glass plates, cups, and decorations that you want. Then maybe we can get the proper items to wrap some up for Lily and Chire." By the end of his little spiel, his eyes were sparkling. He was awake with energy only to have his warm expression dim in a few moments.

All he has talked about was planning and plans. Spending the first full day at the villa while arranging plans; not so ideal in his opinion. He assumed that it wasn't ideal for Abrose too. Although, he might have a way to make the day better. They could have a picnic dinner on the beach tonight. He would have to find a way around making it happen without Abrose knowing.

His fingers flowed through the waves of his husband's hair. How can he plan something when he can do this for hours? "So, we will go into the village tomorrow and look at the glass blowers and their art….But, aside from what I have to do, is there anything else we should do today?"

Abrose shook his head slightly "Whatever for? I'm teasing you, dear. If you need a day to prepare for tomorrow, I'm more than fine waiting. While it is fun going into town with no plan whatsoever, It would be nice to have some sort of idea as to what we'll be seeing." He reassured, pressing into Malachi's hand and kissing his palm. "I'm sure they would both love that. Lilly especially, she loves collecting little trinckets from all over the continent." He said, slightly dreamily as Malachi ran his fingers through Abrose's hair. He glanced up at malachi and gently pressed his hand to his cheek, noticing his slightly fallen expression. "You worry over nothing my dearest. I promise. Plan to your hearts content. As long as we're both happy and enjoying this wonderful honeymoon there is nothing that could matter more." Abrose's eyes fluttered shut and he heavily leaned into Malachi's hand, "I wouldn't say 'should' do per say. I was going to explore on the grounds. perhaps the other rooms in the villa. I'm not quite sure at th emoment but I'm content with this for now." He lifted his head slightly and peeked up at Malachi, "what else is around here other than the villa itself and the villiage nearby?" he asked curiously, glancing at the windows on the far side of the dining room.

Somehow he still managed to blush. He looked away. There is both little and a lot when it comes to arranging an outing. It may be a silly thing to think, but he is only concerned about security, even though the village is known to be safe. Him and Abrose can wander around freely; it's just that there will be two guards following them. He shook his head at himself while combing Abrose's hair. "I tend to worry a lot, Abrose. I worry over every single thing then seek out every way to fix them all, but I promise I will try to not worry as much while we are here. We will enjoy this wonderful honeymoon."

Malachi bit the inside of his cheek while being deep in thought. Aside from the villa, beach, and nearby village, he isn't sure what else there is. Everything is at least half an hour by carriage too. "There's the beach…and uh…that's about it," He shrugged. Letting his fingers slide down the side of Abrose's face, he sighed. "And if anything, there's your husband too. He may be planning an outing in the village tomorrow, but he probably would finish everything in an hour or so…and he would rather be with his husband instead of himself."

"So I've noticed." Abrose gave a soft, knowing smile. "But with what you've told me, you have all the to reason to worry. I just hope you know you're allowed to relax. You're one person regardless of you being a king now. If we end up doing nothing more than relaxing and taking a well deserved break from the world on this honeymoon, then I would consider that a very rewarding and lovely honeymoon." He smiled softly and shrugged. "Thats more than okay. There's plenty of beach to explore." he reassured, genuinely excited to go out and walk the length of the beach. From what Abrose could tell from yesterday after arriving, there was far more beach than he had briefly explored. Abrose hummed as he tilted his hea dback into Malachi's hand. "Are you suggesting you are one to be explored, my dear? Or were you perhaps thinking more innocently and suggest we explore around the villa property together?" He asked, a delighted grin spreading on his features even as blush bloomed on his cheeks. Something he had immediately recognized in Malachi that he could relate to was the almost careful nature in which they had approached their relationship. They hadn't even properly kissed on their wedding day so Abrose hadn't been too preocupied with the more intamate part of their relationship until recently. While he wasn't entirely ready for everything that entailed, he did want to get to know Malachi more personally. "Very well. Before any true adventure begins, I''l make sure to drag you from wherever you are hiding and bring you with me. In fact, regardless of any adventure, I'll want your attention after an hour all by my lonesome drifting throughout the villa."

"Why thank you, Abrose," He grinned. Malachi brushed the side of his husband's cheek. It gradually began to feel warm underneath his touch. Perhaps it must have transferred to him as he felt his face turn warm itself.

To be quite honest, Malachi tip-toed around intimacy because he was concerned about Abrose being comfortable. He thought it would be best to prioritize Abrose and his safety over anything like intimacy and love. On the other hand, he was anxious. It had been quite sometime since he had ever "explored" someone. Frankly he couldn't even tell you because it felt like centuries had gone by, especially since he became king and all. Still, he doesn't want to force Abrose into anything he doesn't want to do.

And yet, he looked off to the side. His face was covered in a light shade of pink. "To be frank, I would rather have us explore each other…perhaps while…exploring around the villa…If that is something you want to do, of course," He sighed. Exploring each other could have many meanings, now that he thought about it. There are chances it could be more intimate or could just mean they get to learn about each other on a more personal level. It all depends really and Malachi doesn't mind what will happen next. He brushed the side of Abrose's cheek. "Well, I am more than willing to give you as much attention as you desire."

Abrose gently held Malachi's hand in place at his cheek, only slightly turning his head so that his lip pressed lightly against his palm in a lingering kiss. it also helped to hide his ever blushing face though he assumed Malachi could feel his sudden warmth.
In all honesty he could understand Malachi's hesitation to his very forward implication. but he refused to apologies or take back the comment. They were married now. If Abrose wasn't comfortable sharing his desires or opinions, what was the marriage worth then? Though Abrose could admit he could have chosen a lighter topic than intamacy, at least for now.
He glanced up, not being able to help a grin from spreading on his features as Malachi replied, if not a bit flustered. It amused Abrose greatly, knowing he could make Malachi, somone so stoic and collected, flustered and at a loss for words with a few words. "I'm sure that can be arraganged, my love." He laughed softly, truly finding Malachi cute. "You poor thing," he murmured, reaching up and lovingly running his hand through his husband's hair. "We'll take it slow, whether that be physically or simply conversational. I promise anything you widh not to do or discuss will not be forced." He reassured gently.
He tookboth of malachi's hads and held them in his, pressing a kiss to his knuckles. "Careful, dear. I never disclosed the amount of time I'm very willing to stay cooped up with you. Theres a very high possibility we may not see the sun for a good day or two." He winked and stood, gently tugging Malachi up with him. "Now, if we're finished with the breakfast, I do believe you told me you have planning to do? And I have some plans to revisit the library."