forum You promise you won't forget us?

Started June 22, 2021 by @Fenrir

tune

(Alright! I'm back! Sorry for the wait I'm probably still going to be coming in and out until Christmas break, but yeah, also it's been a while so my writing might be complete shit.)

"Yeah, I guess you're right. Seriously, how do you always know what to say?" He scoffed. "I don't know how you deal with so many things and still remain mentally stable." It was starting to get a little dark during the drive but before he could say anything the terminal in which they were supposed to enter popped up. "Where are we putting the car? I didn't really think about that part. I could pay for the parking since you already got the tickets. Plane tickets these days are expensive…unless we're not coming back here…then forget everything I just said." Connor got out of the car and went to the backseat to wake the kids up. "Jas…they're so cute, I don't want to wake them up…" He whispered.

(welcome back! It's all good! And most likely same here😅 but glad to have you back!)
"Mostly mentally stable, I've had my fair share of mentally unstable moments." He chuckled softly and shrugged. "One day at a time I guess, especially for people like us." Jas went around the terminal a bit until he found the car park area that would eventually transport his car to Italy. "It'll be going with us," Jas explained, turning off the car and getting out, handing the keys to an awaiting vallet. "Comes part of ticket fee. Since I'm an artist, we go on tours a lot so it comes at a discount for us." He smiled softly and gently scooped Charlotte up, careful not to jostle her too much. "I know, but we have to get on the plane one way or another. They'll sleep plenty once we're boarded." He carefully began unpacking their luggage from the car and started towards the airport to get checked in find their gate.

"Yes, yes, I suppose you right. It takes a lot out of mean to have so many of my lives feel like a distant memory….literally. I think it's getting worse. I can't remember anything from way back like I usually can. A couple of centuries ago, maybe. I hope we can fix this; I don't want to forget everything." He shook the kids slightly to get them awake. He watched as their eyes fluttered open with a soft groan. Even though it was nighttime, the Airport was still pretty lit up, so the light was uncomfortable for them to look at. "Come on, you two, let's get you on that plane, okay? Then you can sleep as much as you want." Charlotte rubbed her eyes and held her arms out to be held. Connor picked her up with a slight grunt. "Am I seriously that old? I swear I just finished college…" Asher got out of the car half awake but managed to hold onto Connor's pants and a way to continue walking without actually having his eyes open. "They're so peaceful when they just wake up."

Jas frowned slightly at the mention of Connor slowly losing his memories. While Jas himself had found himself forgetting little details of his lives, he thought it relatively normal considering just how many lives they had lived. He was bound to forget some things but usually he could recall most of the significant events like his like with Winston and the life he had spent as a boy in Italy, only to be drowned, as sad as remembering that was. Jas glanced at Connor and gently brushed his free hand against his in what he hoped was comfort. "It'll work out, love, you'll see. From what Finn has tried to explain to me, the process will take a night or two but it should be painless and easy. We'll be with you the entire time." he encouraged gently, looking up as they inched forwards in the checkout line, starting to put everything in the bins to go through the x-ray machine. They all eventually went through all the customs and security check, only having to spend a bit of time explaining the situation of suddenly bringing three more people to Italy to security before coming to an understanding and being situated at their gate and hour before their flight.

He sighed as he plopped down onto the chair. The airport never gets any less tiring." He chuckled. Charlotte leaned against Connor's chest in an attempt to fall asleep. Asher put his stuff close to Jas and climbed up onto the other side of Connor's lap. "You two…" They both looked up with pure innocence. He didn't say anything and let them slowly drift off to sleep. He leaned his head back and looked at Jas. "I've grown weak in the charm of children." He chuckled. He closed his eyes, but airport chairs were all that comfortable. "I'm sorry about what I said to you in high school. I was a major dick. Seriously how do you put up with me."

Jas chuckled softly as he settled in the chair beside Connor, scooting all their luggage and belongings beside him. "no, it certainly does not." he agreed, closing his eyes and allowing himself a few moments of relaxation. He peeked over to Connor and the kids, "I see that's something that runs in the family then." He mused with a teasing smile. He shrugged slightly "you were, but I can understand how weird it must have been for you, especially if you have no recollection of our previous life. I must have looked crazy. Besides, I think I got back at you a few years later. I hadn't meant to yell at you, or say such horrible things. I was angry…but not at you, not really." He offered a gentler smile and brushed the back of his hand against Connor's cheek. "We've had many lives together. I've had time to work out my own emotions and your reactions to them. No matter what happens between us, I will always love you."

"Why do you have to talk like that? You know what it does to me. I'm losing memories by the hour, and you still say such beautiful things about me." Connor leaned against his hand. It felt so safe, and he still had no idea why. His memories being gone were blocking everything, and he just wanted them back. He looked up, staring into Jas's eyes, searching for something, but he didn't know what it was. He sighed, his eyes closing before he moved Jas's hand off his cheek. Connor kissed Jas on the cheek. He heard them calling up a group of people, and they were first. He sighed, unable to sit down for more than a few minutes. He stood up softly, careful not to disturb the sleeping angles he was holding. His wings came out he tucked them close to his body. "Your turn, kitty." He used one of his wings to carry his bag. "I'm still embarrassed with these things. They're so big it tends to draw attention."

"Because you deserve to hear those things, heart. It is because you react so cutely that I say those things. And because I genuinely mean them." Jas replied, watching Connor back for a few moments. Jas' hand slowly dropped back to the arm of the chair between them, for a moment fearing he had gone too far again. If there was even the posibility Connor could get his past life's memories back it didn't mean everything would go back to how it once was. Connor had been right those years back when Jas had first found Finn. What would happen after? Connor still had kids he adored, he wasn't entirely sure how either of them would explain their immortal lives without emotionally effecting them in some way. And what about Jake? Jas couldn't help but feel like he could have prevented what had happened with him, what had happened to Connor. It still hurt knowing while he had been living his dream of being a musician in Italy, Connor had been suffering.
Jas was about to apologies but then sucked in a breath as Connor leaned in and pressed a kiss to his cheek. All in one fleeting moment, Jas was back in their old life, heading to Florida for Connor's final mission, joking around and planning out their vacation, planning out the rest of their lives together though it had been a secret from one another back then. Jas sighed softly, willing himself not to pull Connor back in for another longer kiss as he stood as well and gave a small laugh. "You'll get rest soon, sweetheart. Just a little longer." He promised, staring in awe at Connor's wings for a few moments before he glanced back as their gate was called. He gave his ID to the security guard and luggage off to the flight attendants before he shifted, now a large cat, the size of a tiger, black and lanky. He glanced back at Connor and nudged his head against his arm before they were lead towards the terminal to board the plane.

Connor gave their passports and tickets to the lady explaining the children he was carrying. Once she checked everything, they were allowed to get on board. He bought first-class tickets only because he didn't want his children sitting too far from them. So, he sat the children right behind them and buckled them in. He kissed their heads and started to put their stuff into the overhead compartments. Alexander then sat in one of the seats and buckled himself in. While he waits for Jas to finish putting his things away, he can't help but think about what Jas was thinking. At least, he wishes he could. He could always tell when something was off with him, even when they weren't together. It was a little harder to tell since Jas was a cat now, but somehow he knew. Saying something while Jas was also trying to get settled, so he waisted.

Jas shifted back to normal once they were brought to their seats. While back then Jas would have had to stay in his cat form, rules have changed for airport security (and plot convenience) and he no longer needed to remain a cat so long as he wasn't a threat. Jas thanked and nodded as the flight attendants helped organize their bags before he settled beside Connor and buckled himself in, trying his best not to think about the take off. Even with this lifetime of experience riding an airplane to and from Italy, take off and landing were still something has hated.
"I know I've mentioned this before, but there's still time to back out. If getting your memories back isn't something you want to deal with now or even in this lifetime, we can wait. You can still make a life for yourself and the kids." He glanced over at Connor and took a good look at him for what seemed like the first time in years. Now that the anger from the situation subsided, Jas could see just how tired Connor looked, but also the relief that came with getting away from Jake. "I'll take you and the kids anywhere you want to go once we stop at home if Italy isn't somewhere you want to stay. Even if you just want to meet Finn and Logan but not get your memories back we can do that as well." he offered, biting his lip momentarily, debating whether he should say what's on his mind before he took a deep breath. "If you do or don't want to stay with me, that's also something we can work out."

"No!" He yelled. Connor shrunk in his seat with embarrassment after he said that. "No, god, no. I want this. I want you. I want to know why you were so special. I want to remember everything we had, not just for you, but for me. It feels like a gap is missing, and it will just keep getting wider until I eventually forget you too. Although you were a pain in my ass back then, I still want to know that you exist because you helped me become who I am now. Whether you believe it or not." He touched Jas's cheek. "How could Itatly not be a perfect place? From what you told me, I showed you where I grew up, and now it's time for you to do the same." Connor looked down at Jas's lips, god all he wanted to do was kiss him and treasure him that everything was okay, that he was okay. "It's not your fault. What happened to me? It was never your fault. I know it wasn't mind either. The world is fucked up, and that's how it will always be. No matter what. I'm at peace with that. So whatever you're thinking, stop thinking it." He smiled, still unable to take his hand off Jas. Connor didn't know why, but he got lost in Jas's eyes, so much regret and pain lied in them and he just wanted that all to go away. He moved closer subconsciously; it felt right.

Jas laughed softly at Connor's sudden outburst feeling a sense of relief lift off his chest, knowing that Connor wanted the same. He rested his head in Connor's hand, purring softly pressing a soft kiss to his palm. "I can't wait to show you and the kid's Italy. You'll love it." He caught Connor's gaze flicker downwards and smiled. "I know, it's taken me years to start to believe whatever happens to us isn't either our faults. I'll have my moments of doubt and regression but I'm trying. You know me too well love, even if you've lost parts of your memory." He reached up and gently cradled Connir's cheek as he closed the gap between them, gently pressing their heads together before their lips met in a gentle kiss, tentative and slow. "I love you heart, wirh or without your memories. No matter what happens I want to go through this life and every other life you allow by your side."

He felt a tingle move down his spine when their lips finally met. His chest tightened with excitement, wanting that feeling never to end. However, it did, and for a good reason too. "I think…no…I…I-I," He cursed himself under his breath. Why is it that the one time he had to say something important, he had to mess it all up with his words? "I love you too, Jas. I didn't exactly picture it on an airplane where I wanted to tell you I love you, but not everything has to be something big, right? I mean, not that I imagined anything important… too big….or anything. You know what, forget what I said." Connor turned his head toward the window. "Fucking idiot…" he whispered.

"Honestly neither did I but not everything in our lives has be so dramatic. I think we've had quite a lot of that in our lives." He let out a laugh as Connor sputtered for words and turned away in frustration. Jas shook his head adoringly before he leaned in a pecked Connor on the cheek. "You're not an idiot, sweetheart. Not all the time at least." He teased, winking and lacing their hands together as he leaned back in his seat. "Is there anything you'd like to know about the previous life? Anything you might be questioning or that don't quite line up?" He asked, thinking back to the their previous life and smiling softly at the memories that came to mind, memories he oftentimes fell asleep to. "Any memories you'd like to know more about perhaps?"

"I have a lot of questions and a lot of memories I want to know about, but that can all be done later," Connor began, his voice filled with uncertainty and hope. "Besides, I want to cherish the memories we're already making rather than dwell on the old ones. If all goes well, hopefully, I'll have my memories back, so I won't even need to ask about them." As he spoke, Connor leaned back just enough to rest against Jas's shoulder, seeking solace in his presence. "But," he continued, his tone softening with vulnerability, "I have this weird feeling in my gut. What if I get my memories back and start hating you again? What if the bad outweighs the good? I know that's close to impossible in my heart, but I have no idea what that means to my brain. I know I'll still have these memories. I'm just scared…that's all." Connor squeezed Jas's hand tightly, drawing comfort from the warmth and reassurance it provided in the face of his fears. "Just promise me whatever happens, you'll smack me back to reality, not literally, but you know what I mean. As it stands, I never want to leave you, so please never forget that." Connor used his other arm to gently cup Jas's cheek, his touch filled with affection and longing. Moving closer, he sought to bridge the physical gap between them, yearning to be even closer to the one person who made him feel human.

Jas shifted slightly, the plane seats making it hard for anyone to get comfortable but they managed with what space they had. He rested his head against Connor's and lightly stroked the back of his hand with his thumb. "That could happen." He agreed softly. "We've had more lifetimes at each other's throats than actually being together. And we don't know how you'll react to having your memories back all at once. But no matter what, I'll stay by your side." He gently nudged Connor's head in reassurance, even as he felt the same fear, of losing Connor again. He couldn't help but laugh as he shook his head "I will always be there whenever you need me, my heart. You can't get rid of me so easily, try as you might each life." He promised with a teasing smirk before pressing his brow to Connor's. "We'll get settled at home, make sure Jake is taken care of at the farthest possible institute, get some much needed rest, and then call Finn first thing in the morning." He planned, lips brushing against the bridge of Connor's nose as he spoke. He tilted his head into Connor's palm, pressing a kiss to his fingertips before he brushed a kiss against his lips, tentative and slow, still getting used to being allowed to kiss Connor after being apart for so long. "So I guess you don't want to hear about the time you almost drowned me in a lake."

He nodded quietly, glancing between the seats to find Charlotte and Asher leaning against each other, peacefully asleep, reminiscent of their childhood. "Yeah…" he whispered with a soft smile, reciprocating the kiss, cherishing the connection between their lips. His expression turned to a frown as Jas halted, silently expressing his disagreement. "I did what?!" His voice rose in alarm, sitting up abruptly to face Jas with concern, only to realize they were on a plane, feeling embarrassed as he leaned back down. "What did I do?" he whispered to himself, gently brushing Jas's forehead. "I'm sorry for trying to drown you," he apologized softly, acknowledging the need to rest during the flight. Closing his eyes, he settled back into his seat, chuckling at the thought of their past antics. "I'm excited to uncover more about you," he admitted, his cheeks tinted with a gentle pink, reflecting on their shared experiences. "Now, I'm just rambling… good night, Jas. Please wake me before we land so I can help Charlotte and Asher. You know how they get after a long sleep."

Jas couldn't help but laugh aloud, his ears flattening against his head as he took a moment to compose himself from his fit, "Forgive my love but that reaction was precious." He gently cupped Connor's cheeks and pressed a reassuring kiss to his brow. "You didn't do anything sweet love." he promised, finding a small blanket he had packed in his carry-on that was meant for the kids in case they got cold but he figured they wouldn't mind too much if they used it for a while. He tossed it over Connor's shoulders before settling in for the rest of the flight. "We were going to visit your hometown in Florida before your mission." He began to explain, not minding if Connor fell asleep, he would gladly tell the story over and over again. "You drove us to a lake by your home and we decided to take a dip since it was unbrearably hot. I wasn't too fond of water because of my past lives, being a cat and all but I didn't mind wading through. That is until a certain someone forgot he had super strength and drenched me in a wave of water." He chuckled lightly and shook his head adoringly. "But it was all worth it, seeing you so happy. And I may or may not have gotten my payback later on, making you all flustered as always." he smiled softly "All in due time, sweetheart. I promise. Get some rest for now." He murmured, kissing Connor's hair. "I won't. You need rest. Don't worry your beautiful self about anything for a while."

He smiled to himself, basking in the warmth of Jas's voice as he recounted the tale of his near-drowning experience. With his eyes closed, Connor could vividly picture the serene lake Jas described as if he were there himself. It was a strange sensation, as though the memory belonged to him rather than being narrated to him. This realization sparked a cascade of thoughts about their shared experiences, prompting Connor to ponder whether, deep down, he had always craved these adventures with Jas, regardless of their tumultuous relationship. He no longer wished to carry the world's weight on his shoulders or engage in endless battles with Jas. As sleep enveloped him, he embraced a newfound sense of peace, grateful for the opportunity to leave behind the burdens of his past and embrace the serenity of the present moment. As Jas's soothing words enveloped him, Connor drifted into a peaceful slumber, lulled by the steady rhythm of his heartbeat and the comforting embrace of the blanket. Amidst the tranquility of sleep, memories from his past flickered through his mind, reminding him of his different paths, from humble beginnings to lofty heights. Yet, in every iteration of his life, his ultimate aspiration remained unchanged: to be the hero, with Jas as his villain.

Jas smiled softly at Connor as his breathing evened out. He pressed a gentle kiss to his head and preocupied himself with a book or a movie when the book got boring. He'd check on the kids, ently waking them up at one point and passing them snacks or toys when they started getting restless. He didn't blame them though, the flights back and forth from Italy to the States always seemed so long. At one point he switched seats with Connor, gently moving him over so that he could help keep the kids entertained while eh slept, and to relieve some of the neck pain sleeping in the same position might have caused. They were well into their third game of cards when the announcement came on that they would be descending soon. Right on time too because Jas was starting to get desperate on what to trade with the kids. He had already lost a 5 dollar bet and a homemade tiramisu cake to the pair and still hadn't won. He helped the kids pack away the game and gently nudged Connor's shoulder. "My love, wake up. We're almost there." He gently coerced, brushing back Connor's hair and pressing a kiss to his temple. "I doubt you'll want to miss your first view of Italy."

Connor groaned softly as he shifted his head to properly face Jas, his eyes squinting against the newfound morning light streaming through the windows. With a gentle rub of his eyes, he finally opened them and took in the breathtaking scene outside. The buildings seemed to meld seamlessly with the mountainous landscape, each structure a testament to the harmonious relationship between human architecture and the natural world surrounding them. "This is where you lived, Jas. It's… it's beautiful," he murmured, his voice filled with genuine awe and appreciation. "Italy is just… stunning." Leaning back against Jas, Connor continued to gaze out the window, captivated by the picturesque view unfolding before him. "I can't believe you never brought me here before," he remarked with a hint of playful reproach. "Well, I can, but it's still…" His words trailed off as he became lost in the splendor of their surroundings, momentarily forgetting the bustle of the airplane cabin around them. Connor roused himself from his reverie as the flight attendant made her rounds, reminding passengers to prepare for landing. He took charge, ensuring everyone in their group was ready for the descent. Rising from his seat, he addressed Charlotte and Asher with authority and amusement. "You heard the lady—buckle up and behave yourselves," he said firmly, though his lips curved into a playful grin. "No fooling around, got it?" With the plane finally touching down, Connor breathed a sigh of relief along with the rest of the passengers, eager to stretch his legs after the long flight. "Oh, I need to stretch my wings." he winced, turning back to Jas with a lighthearted chuckle; he gathered their belongings, ready to disembark. "Alright, let's start getting our stuff together," he announced, glancing at Charlotte and Asher with a knowing smile. "Any last-minute bathroom breaks before we hit the ground running?" As Charlotte and Asher sheepishly raised their hands, Connor couldn't help but laugh. "Looks like we're all in the same boat. Let's make it quick, shall we?" As they began to make their way off the plane, Connor turned to Jas with a playful glint in his eye. "Lead the way, oh seasoned traveler," he teased. Then, with a grin, he added, "Wait, since you lived here, do you happen to speak Italian too?"

He nodded, following Connor's gaze to watch as the country he had grown up in passed then by in a slow circle. "Not exactly here." He lifted Connor's chin up ever so slightly and pointed to where a small valley could be seen beyond the city buildings. "Right over there. Just cresting the hills. THats where I grew up most lives as a child. Oddly enough that hasn't changed over the course of our lives. But I usually end up moving to the states in highschool." He explained, laughing lightly to hide the pang of sadness. "I was going to last life. After…" He trailed off, shaking his head slightly and gave a tight smile. "Whats important is that you get to see it now." He looked up as fleight attendants announced that passengers could gather their belongings. He put the blankets back into his carryone and helped Connor with the rest of the suitcases. Jas closed his eyes as the plane touched down, probably hating the touch down more than the ascent, both were uncomfortable but he got through them both each fleight. He helped the kids and Connor as they left the plane and made it to the airport, gladly taking the time to stretch out his limbs. He laughed when the kids raised their hands, guiding their small group over to the where the bathrooms were while he figured out what gate would have the rest of their luggage. "Not as well as I should." He admitted. "Its easy to sing it, even as just a backup on drums but conversation was always harder, especially after having only lived here as a kid. Some words stick though, mostly the food related ones and formalities. I've picked up a bit more since moving back but english hasn't failed me as of yet."

He frowned when Jas stopped in the middle of his sentence. After what? he shook his head and decided it was better to be left alone. If it were about them, then he would know soon enough. "Oh, is that so? I find that singing in another language is easier as well. It's less knowing what it means and more learning the word's pronunciation."He mulled over the idea of navigating an unfamiliar place, feeling a twinge of uncertainty gnawing at him. It wasn't just about language barriers but about adapting to an entirely different way of life. Yet, for Jas and the kids, he was willing to push past his apprehensions and give it his all. As they disembarked from the plane and made their way through the airport, Connor's gaze scanned the bustling terminal, his mind already focused on the next task at hand. Spotting the restroom signs, he turned to Jas with a question. "Jas, do you need to use the bathroom, or do you think you can watch the bags for a bit?"

"WHen did you learn to sing, my dear?" Jas asked curiously. "Exactly, though I try to translate the words when its for the band. Some of the songs are genuinely beautiful, even more so in Italian." He shrugged sheepishly, unable to stop himself from gushing about his newfound passion for music. every life had always meant being the villain. When he wasn't fighting Connor, Jas picked up odd jobs here and there to make rent and necessities. He was a nobody outside of being a problem. But now that he had movied and rediscovered a long ago repressed passion of his, Jas ha genuinely never felt more himself. Even if the band wasn't famous yet, they were big enough to book gigs and make a decent earning on their shows enough for the members to live relatively comfortably. Even if they were poor Jas wouldn't give up making music. He supposed if one good thing were to come out of this life, it would be that. He only regretted not having Connor there sooner to share his passions with. He glanced up and shook his head. "You all go first, I'll watch the bag then we'll switch."

"Well, I never learned to sing. It's kind of something I've always been able to do. Honestly, it's as natural as breathing," he chuckled, feeling the tug of his children pulling him towards the bathroom. With a wave, he guided them there, their pace hurried but eager. Inside, they didn't linger long, fortunate to find short lines. When Connor emerged, a sense of relief washed over them all, and their tension eased as if they had just showered away their worries. "I so needed that. Your turn, Jas. I can take the bags," Connor offered, handing over their belongings to Charlotte and Asher, ready to move as soon as Jas exited the bathroom. The impending jet lag loomed, and he wanted to ensure they were settled somewhere comfortable before it took its toll. Leaning in, he planted a kiss on Jas's cheek. "Maybe we could sing together sometime since you were in a band and everything. I wanted to tell you before, but you know who was in the room, and I didn't want to upset him. But now I don't have to worry about that because I have you," he said with a bright smile, a sense of excitement bubbling between them.

Jas switched with Connor, leaving him with the carry-on bags while he used the bathroom. Now freshened up and ready to go back home, Jas soon returned to the group, taking one of the bags and guiding the group to the baggage claim. He gently nudged Connor's shoulder in reassurance, already seeing the tiredness settle in, especially in the two kids. "Just a little longer, heart. You all can rest once we get home." He promised, smiling softly at the kiss. "I would love that Connor. I can introduce you to the band too. I'm sure they'd be more than happy to meet you." He offered, blush blooming on his cheeks at the idea of them doing anything together. He had forgotten, or at least tried in his years in Italy what it felt like working together with Connor. What it felt like building a life with the one he loved the most because that was all last life. Connor had moved on and so had Jas. There was no them until those memories were retrieved and even then, Jas wouldn't have destroyed a family all for his won selfish desires. He composed himself and finally found the baggage claim and efficiently grabbed the rest of the suitcases.

"Alright, I promise you we're almost there." It had taken half an hour to find where Jas had parked the car and loaded everything in and by then the two kids had fallen asleep yet again, the excitement of a new country not enough to keep them entertained for long. Another hour in and Jas was half ready himself to fall asleep at the wheel, having tried everything he could, putting on music, rolling the windows down, and occupying himself by acting as tour guide to Connor, to keep him from nodding off. Thankfully his home wasn't too far off from the main city as soon enough they were turning into his driveway. The home itself wasn't grand but it suited what Jas had envisioned for lives now perfectly. The house was simple, ivory white with creme and dark wood accents, large windows allowed for a view of the inside, shielded by thin curtains. The warm glow of lights could be seen at night though now the sunlight was enough to keep the place illuminated. It would have been close to the place Jas took Connor on their honeymoon had everything gone right that faithful night. Jas hopped out of his car and juggled a sleeping Asher as well as his cats and a backback back inside. "Don't worry about the bag, love. Take the guest bedroom with the kids and get some rest. I'll make dinner and wake you up when it's ready." He offered, climbing the stairs and opening the doors to his home.

Connor smiled warmly and nodded appreciatively. “Thank you for the offer, but I won’t be able to sleep without you by my side. So if you’re staying up to cook, then count me in. I’ll go tuck the kids into bed; they seem a bit tired after adjusting to the new place.” He glanced over at Charlotte and Asher, who were gradually winding down from their earlier excitement.

“I’ll be right back.” Connor leaned in and placed a tender kiss on Jas’s cheek before making his way to the children’s room. Once there, he gently tucked them into bed, planting soft kisses on their foreheads. “You two have been pretty quiet since we got here. How are you feeling about the new place?”

“How long are we staying here? I like it. It’s so quiet, no noisy cars,” Asher murmured, rubbing his sleepy eyes.

“Yeah, will we go to school here too?” Charlotte added, her voice filled with curiosity.

Connor smiled affectionately. “Well, that depends on how long we’ll be here, but since you both seem to like it, I’ll talk to Jas about it. For now, let’s get some rest. Tomorrow is a new day, be ready for anything. Goodnight, my little troublemakers.” With a final pat on their heads, Connor stood up and dimmed the lights, leaving the door slightly ajar for comfort. Returning to the kitchen, Connor approached Jas with a soft smile. “Hey,” he said gently, wrapping his arms around Jas’s waist and resting his head on his back. “This is nice. Charlotte and Asher are enjoying it here because it’s peaceful. They even asked if they could attend school here. What do you think I should tell them? Personally, I’m loving the tranquility of this place. It’s just us, and I find that incredibly soothing.”

Jas nodded slightly, a small smile on his lips as he leaned into the affection before he headed back outside to grab the rest of their bags. He organized and called his dad and Suni, letting them know that they were all safe back in Italy and updating them a bit about Connor's situation since the divorce before he excused himself to rest, promising more details in the next few weeks. Once everything was in place and Jas had let his cats free, he began on a simple dinner. Ever since living alone this life, first inspired by impressing Connor for when the time came to reunite but soon becoming a necessity of living alone, Jas had learned how to cook. It wasn't anything fancy but even the simplest of dishes were helped with such easy access to fresh ingredients.
Too tired and jet lagged to put much energy into something intricate, Jas settled on a favorite pasta dish made with a simple cream sauce and some grilled chicken to at least get some protein in. The moment he started cooking the chicken, who else was to reappear but Ash and Winnie. Jas gave a warning glare to the both of them before continuing with dinner, occasionally sneaking them a bit of chicken as their pre-dinner treat. "Mischievous creatures," he muttered as they eventually trotted off to the sun room for a quick nap. If only he could follow. In the summer, the sunroom branching off from the living room was the closest thing to heaven on earth. Plants he could never get to stay alive in the city thrived here, growing lush and green. Jas had taken the opportunity to put his cats' cat-tree and beds there, since they'd appreciate the sun, and had even set up a little lounge area for himself. While it wasn't the fireplace he had dreamed of for lives now, he thought this would do just as well if not better. the domed glass ceiling let in plenty of light and had a great view of the stars at night. With a few string lights here and there and a book to keep him company, Jas had built himself a bit of paradise in his home. But as much as he loved living out his life here in Italy, it had never felt complete, not without the person he loved. Until now he supposed, but things were still not quite right.
He hummed softly, glancing over his shoulder as Connor hugged him. "Hello, Heart." He greeted, gently taking Connor's hand and pressing a kiss to the back of it. "Really? I wasn't aware they were conscious enough to be aware of the scenery." He teased, finding a fork and offering a taste of the pasta and chicken. "This area does have a few good English schools, mostly for the exchange or abroad students but I'm sure we could find one they liked. But I would take it slow for, my love. You did just get here a few hours ago." He advised softly, careful not to burn Connor as Jas carefully moved around the kitchen to add the chicken to the sauced pasta. He added a bit of zested lemon and the juice as well as some shaved parmesan before mixing once more, tasting it himself, and finding a few bowls to serve in. "Dinner is served, dear." He turned in Connor's arms and offered a bowl to him.