[ He made the wrong move, definitely. The wisp of Steven's warm breath leaves a singing sensation on his ear, forcing his eyes shut and naturally recoiling. He can feel his body tremble ever so slightly—out of fear? Out of elation...? He once believed that he knew himself quite well, but this situation is telling him otherwise.
There's no gesture, no position, that can ease his nerves from that kind of stimulation. Instead, he keeps his gaze lowered in attempts to protect what dignity has, maybe even force a smile though it comes off downright nervous. ]
Yes... [ With all the fortitude and strength he can muster, he's able to keep his voice steady and clear. ] I'm prepared for whatever punishment and consequence.
Shall I treat you like a princess?
[ Maybe... A joke will help him ease in. It doesn't. ]
[ hm... he's can't quite make heads or tails of a reaction like that. it's a little more reserved than steven would have liked, so he backs off a bit into his own space. this is why he doesn't really joke around... it always ends up more awkward than he intends.
still, he tries to keep the mood on the positive side with a small smile and chuckle to himself. ]
Good. Though I'm far too used to people categorizing me as the "prince charming"...
[ You're just bad at jokes maybe that's why last night happened in the first place. The atmosphere is back to being uneasy once again due to some missteps on both of their parts— what are they even doing? Riley strokes his chin as he finally looks back up to the other man. Prince Charming... he can see it, but it's hard now that he has seen how the other man reacted to a simple cheek peck. There's a small nod and a soft smile.
It definitely fits him. ]
If you are more comfortable with that role, then so be it, Prince Charming.
[ It can't get any worse than this, right? Riley has gauged that Steven does not dislike the kisses at all. Eyebrows furrowed for a second, he's willing to take this risk. Okay, not too much of a risk. ]
May I be graced with Your Highness' soft lips? Before you kick me out, at least.
[ ugh. he's already cringing internally at what he just said, despite trying to laugh it off. it's an odd game of careful flirtation / gay chicken that they're playing, but it's clearly starting to become something a little more overt. after all, they're still sharing an bed.
he hesitates for a moment, gently biting his lower lip. he wants to give some sort of idea that he's giving the request some thought, but he had his answer the moment that riley asked. ]
Setting aside the fact that I most certainly will not kick you out... I suppose I can indulge that request.
[ his eyes cast down shyly for a moment, before he meets riley's with a small smile. hopefully it comes off more confident than he feels. ]
[ Welcome to the world of Pokemon, where cringing and pun intended names are quite commonplace. His smile only widens not from happiness, but from anxiety. This is unexpected... Steven accepted his little proposal. He should be exuding confidence, but he's getting the butterflies like he's in his teens.
Deep breaths. He can do this. Raising a hand, he caresses Steven's cheek before grazing his lips with the pad of his thumb. ]
Thank you. I'll treasure and appreciate your kindness.
[ Leaning in, he lets their nose bump as they're only breaths apart. He lingers for a bit as his eyes are focused on his lips before brushing them together for a chaste kiss. ]
[ it's said softly as their noses bump together; he makes sure to have the last word before their lips meet. he doesn't want to seem too eager, but the way that he nudges forward in returning the kiss can't be easily ignored. it's chaste, yes, but clearly reciprocated as something more than just indulging a request. ]
[ That little insistence and short retort are endearing, so Riley feels his heart flutter. He can't help but smile as their lips are pressed together, even tilting his head so that they can fit into a slightly deeper kiss.
When they part, he'll take this opportunity to also kiss the bridge of his nose and run some of his fingers through his hair. ]
I can only wonder how many you've shown genuine interest in aside from ores, but I guess it's better not to know.
[ He doesn't think he's the jealous type, but... he's not even sure? ]
[ he doesn't regret saying what he did, but he's still surprised at his own forwardness. he's speaking before he thinks - for steven, that's nothing short of a cardinal sin. it's by sheer luck that he hasn't tripped up over his words yet, but he only feels like it's a matter of time.
but from the way that he finds himself enjoying their kiss, there's no sign of him stopping any time soon. idly, he rests a hand on riley's knee - it's innocent, but brings them closer all the same. ]
It's probably less than what you're thinking. Even if it weren't, it isn't often that my inhibitions are this relaxed... I suppose I find myself comfortable around you.
[ he punctuates with a kiss to his jawline. is there really any kidding themselves when they've already woken up next to one another, and are so nonchalantly exchanging kisses? ]
I wouldn't say it's odd, but things sure have escalated quickly.
[ Which isn't exactly bad. They're adults and can choose their pair however they want. Riley only gives the same content but enigmatic smile, attempting to hide the thoughts circling around in his head. He's trying to parse the words that shouldn't matter, the ones that reference previous partners—few. Many. What number? He catches himself with uncouth thoughts, but they keep on flowing.
He should be happy. That kiss should seal what bond they have. There's no need to worry, to let doubts fester... And yet it triggers something inside him, an emotion that feels unnatural. It's surprising; he's a little jealous. Without a notice, he tips them over back onto the bed, smothering the other man with small kisses. ]
[ despite priding himself on being able to read others, he doesn't catch onto that jealousy. as such, being tipped takes him completely off-guard - his eyes widen, hands moving to grasp his shoulders in some sort of reflex. his voice is muffled as he's smothered, but seeing as it doesn't take him long to respond in earnest and move his hands to tangle in his hair, it's a good problem to have. ]
[ Maybe if they've gone a second longer in silence, Steven would notice. It's too late not since Riley is nuzzling into his neck and brushing his lips along it. The grip on his shoulder, the fingers in his hair—it's nice and soothes whatever ails him. He recoils, pulling his head back once he grazes his lips against his ear.
Of course he doesn't roll off him just yet, looming over with a soft yet apologetic expression. Quite the opposite. Riley deposits himself onto Steven, lounging on top of him like he belongs here. It's something Lucario used to do when it was a Riolu. It's childish... And he's mentally berating himself for it. ]
[ he lets riley decide just when he's ready to uncouple, happy to hum along gently with the feeling of lips at his neck. even if it's playful and brief, it all feels very nice. ]
Before I was so rudely interrupted?
[ it's said in jest as he cards a hand gently through riley's hair. what was once fixed to proper form has been gently missed again, and steven prefers it that way. ]
I was saying that things really had escalated, yes. In fact, we may be moving closer to how we were last night.
I'm sure I made my move before you spoke, so it wouldn't be considered interrupting per se.
[ Technicalities make the world, so he's happy to point that out. He closes his eyes to the gentle touch, even moving his head towards the hand to usher him to continue. However, the prediction catches him off guard. Like last night...? He doesn't exactly remember it too vividly, but the shadows of blazer falling onto the floor and the wrinkling of sheets doesn't match this quite yet.
... But nipping at Steven's neck does give him a sense of deja vu. ]
Is that so. We can't have that, can we? I haven't had the chance to invite you to excavate a mine with me.
[ Cuddling and spooning is all fine, but—he's gracious enough to zip up Steven's pants. ]
[ he blinks as he processes riley's words, but they ultimately bring him back to earth for whatever overly-eager state of mind he was in. of course... what was he doing, expecting to throw himself at a man he hardly knows? if anything, steven himself should have known better than to have been swept up in the moment.
still, being close to riley felt good. ]
Not taking advantage of the situation... your manners are exemplary.
[ it's said with a bit of a sigh, but he smiles all the same as he mirror's riley's movement. they're still a bit disheveled, but nothing looks too suggestive any more. ]
[ But his eyes do widen when he feels the tug of his zipper. Right. It isn't only Steve in the state of primal desire and general indecency. It's... Embarrassing and really throwing off his groove, but he clears his throat. Composure, poise, fortitude—he must present himself to be an honorable man. Smile with kindness and grace, not apprehension.
He doesn't roll off of Steven, however. It seems he has planted himself here. It's the body heat the coaxes him in loaf around, forcing him to close his eyes in attempts to inhibit this lingering headache. ]
I'll wait until you personally invite me again... That is, if you ever decide to. You seemed quite earnest?
[ it would be naive to try ignore the situation that they've found themselves in, or even downplay it. considering that they've kissed and continued to stay close without any true unease, it should be safe to assume that whatever has sparked between them is mutual.
his fingertips trail up from riley's hips, gentle and idle. ]
That's a good way to hold yourself. As luck may have it, I find myself enjoying the company of gentlemen the most...
[ it's a phrase that can be interpreted in a myriad of ways; the way it's said with nothing more than a calm expression leaves it open. when his hands reaches his shoulders they drop to rest on the mattress, not asking for any more contact. ]
Though I'd like to learn more about you on a basis of sobriety first, I think that will be likely.
[ The graze sends a chill down his spine, decorating his face with a nervous smile. He may be too sensitive to Steven's touch... It's alarming, springing danger signs, but they stop. Praise be. Riley's gaze lowers as he chuckles.
Running his fingers through his own hair, he's not sure how to begin. There's a thoughtful hum as he ponders where to start. ]
As you probably already know, I have an interest in ores and the potential of Pokemon. [ He taps his bottom lip with a finger. ] I have an interesting ability to sense auras—and quite the amount of stories from my childhood regarding that.
[ he lets riley go at his own pace; watching him, but not staring. he doesn't feel uncomfortable from this position just yet, so there isn't any need to protest. ]
If you're comfortable with sharing, I'd be glad to. Admittedly, my knowledge on the aura phenomenon is quite limited.
[ Steven makes such a great stress pillow, compliant and brimming with confidence. Sometimes he wonders how can someone stay so composed being used like a mattress, but... he digresses. ]
You can say aura is the essence of life and only few can see it, let alone manipulate it.
[ Closing his eyes, he tries to recall a memory. Maybe something fond. ]
When I was a child, I told a girl around my age her aura was ugly—what happens next is obvious. Definitely one of my less tactful moments.
[ it isn't all that distressing for him, oddly enough. riley is fairly lightweight and not making any movements that could be taken as stress-inducing, so he finds himself fairly comfortable.
though he does have to bring a hand up to his mouth, hiding a small smile at his story. ]
I can imagine so. You certainly get points for honesty...
[ He sputters without grace once, but catches himself with fretful hand. It doesn't completely stifle the unexpected chuckles, however. He was expecting some kind of light scolding or lecture. Resting his head on his chest, he buries his face into Steven's shirt. ]
That's a nice way to put it, almost encouraging. Unfortunately, I didn't seem all too happy about it—actually, she burst into tears, then I did the same.
[ Hm... ]
I apologize. This is probably the least ideal pillow talk.
[ it's a little too funny for him to do that, and he was a child at the time. it wouldn't be of any use to scold him for it now, and they're both able to share a laugh over it.
his reflex is to lay a hand on riley's back to keep him there, but he relents. ]
I'm sure it was a lesson learned. [ but he shakes his head. ] On the contrary, I'm enjoying it. I've never been one for idle conversation.
[ Yes... laugh at his miserable childhood. He was definitely not popular with girls in his age group after that. Still, he's surprised by how awfully human Steven is?
No offense at all to the former Champion, but it's all surreal. However, it may be the pedestal Riley has put him on for reputation and aura alone—a man almost untouchable.
... For the most part. ]
I'll take your word for it. [ But he's still uneasy about this all which shows in how he shifts on top of him. ] Since I shared, it's only fair that you do the same.
[ yep, champions are indeed human. the professional side of steven is likely the only one that riley is familiar with - most people are, seeing as they'd likely never get the opportunity to speak with him on a one-on-one basis. without prying eyes or a reputation to defend, steven finds himself a bit more comfortable to be himself here. ]
You want to hear an embarrassing childhood story?
[ steven would have been popular with girls... if he was given the time to hang out with them, which he wasn't. before he had insisted on leaving home to go on a journey of his own, his days were spent being groomed to become the devon corporation's future heir. there wasn't really anything funny about it, so he keeps quiet about stating his lack of childhood socialization outright. ]
Let's see... Before I was old enough to have a Pokémon of my own, I had several pet rocks. Much to my father's chagrin, I insisted on bringing them along wherever I went - corporate functions included. I found them to be much better company than the other people in attendance.
So what I'm hearing is that you were allowed very few friends.
[ There's a complacent expression on his face, amicable but ultimately entertained. Is it bad that he isn't too surprised Steven's childhood gravitates about ores? It definitely doesn't take away the quaint quality of the story. Riley continues to smile politely, but his facade breaks when he lets out a couple of chuckles. ]
Rock pets... That's cute. I wonder if you moved on to a rock lover as you grew older. What was their name?
[ He can't let this go, sorry. A little teasing doesn't hurt anyone! ]
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There's no gesture, no position, that can ease his nerves from that kind of stimulation. Instead, he keeps his gaze lowered in attempts to protect what dignity has, maybe even force a smile though it comes off downright nervous. ]
Yes... [ With all the fortitude and strength he can muster, he's able to keep his voice steady and clear. ] I'm prepared for whatever punishment and consequence.
Shall I treat you like a princess?
[ Maybe... A joke will help him ease in. It doesn't. ]
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still, he tries to keep the mood on the positive side with a small smile and chuckle to himself. ]
Good. Though I'm far too used to people categorizing me as the "prince charming"...
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It definitely fits him. ]
If you are more comfortable with that role, then so be it, Prince Charming.
[ It can't get any worse than this, right? Riley has gauged that Steven does not dislike the kisses at all. Eyebrows furrowed for a second, he's willing to take this risk. Okay, not too much of a risk. ]
May I be graced with Your Highness' soft lips? Before you kick me out, at least.
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he hesitates for a moment, gently biting his lower lip. he wants to give some sort of idea that he's giving the request some thought, but he had his answer the moment that riley asked. ]
Setting aside the fact that I most certainly will not kick you out... I suppose I can indulge that request.
[ his eyes cast down shyly for a moment, before he meets riley's with a small smile. hopefully it comes off more confident than he feels. ]
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Deep breaths. He can do this. Raising a hand, he caresses Steven's cheek before grazing his lips with the pad of his thumb. ]
Thank you. I'll treasure and appreciate your kindness.
[ Leaning in, he lets their nose bump as they're only breaths apart. He lingers for a bit as his eyes are focused on his lips before brushing them together for a chaste kiss. ]
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[ it's said softly as their noses bump together; he makes sure to have the last word before their lips meet. he doesn't want to seem too eager, but the way that he nudges forward in returning the kiss can't be easily ignored. it's chaste, yes, but clearly reciprocated as something more than just indulging a request. ]
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When they part, he'll take this opportunity to also kiss the bridge of his nose and run some of his fingers through his hair. ]
I can only wonder how many you've shown genuine interest in aside from ores, but I guess it's better not to know.
[ He doesn't think he's the jealous type, but... he's not even sure? ]
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but from the way that he finds himself enjoying their kiss, there's no sign of him stopping any time soon. idly, he rests a hand on riley's knee - it's innocent, but brings them closer all the same. ]
It's probably less than what you're thinking. Even if it weren't, it isn't often that my inhibitions are this relaxed... I suppose I find myself comfortable around you.
[ he punctuates with a kiss to his jawline. is there really any kidding themselves when they've already woken up next to one another, and are so nonchalantly exchanging kisses? ]
Is that odd?
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[ Which isn't exactly bad. They're adults and can choose their pair however they want. Riley only gives the same content but enigmatic smile, attempting to hide the thoughts circling around in his head. He's trying to parse the words that shouldn't matter, the ones that reference previous partners—few. Many. What number? He catches himself with uncouth thoughts, but they keep on flowing.
He should be happy. That kiss should seal what bond they have. There's no need to worry, to let doubts fester... And yet it triggers something inside him, an emotion that feels unnatural. It's surprising; he's a little jealous. Without a notice, he tips them over back onto the bed, smothering the other man with small kisses. ]
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[ despite priding himself on being able to read others, he doesn't catch onto that jealousy. as such, being tipped takes him completely off-guard - his eyes widen, hands moving to grasp his shoulders in some sort of reflex. his voice is muffled as he's smothered, but seeing as it doesn't take him long to respond in earnest and move his hands to tangle in his hair, it's a good problem to have. ]
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Of course he doesn't roll off him just yet, looming over with a soft yet apologetic expression. Quite the opposite. Riley deposits himself onto Steven, lounging on top of him like he belongs here. It's something Lucario used to do when it was a Riolu. It's childish... And he's mentally berating himself for it. ]
You were saying?
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Before I was so rudely interrupted?
[ it's said in jest as he cards a hand gently through riley's hair. what was once fixed to proper form has been gently missed again, and steven prefers it that way. ]
I was saying that things really had escalated, yes. In fact, we may be moving closer to how we were last night.
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[ Technicalities make the world, so he's happy to point that out. He closes his eyes to the gentle touch, even moving his head towards the hand to usher him to continue. However, the prediction catches him off guard. Like last night...? He doesn't exactly remember it too vividly, but the shadows of blazer falling onto the floor and the wrinkling of sheets doesn't match this quite yet.
... But nipping at Steven's neck does give him a sense of deja vu. ]
Is that so. We can't have that, can we? I haven't had the chance to invite you to excavate a mine with me.
[ Cuddling and spooning is all fine, but—he's gracious enough to zip up Steven's pants. ]
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still, being close to riley felt good. ]
Not taking advantage of the situation... your manners are exemplary.
[ it's said with a bit of a sigh, but he smiles all the same as he mirror's riley's movement. they're still a bit disheveled, but nothing looks too suggestive any more. ]
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[ But his eyes do widen when he feels the tug of his zipper. Right. It isn't only Steve in the state of primal desire and general indecency. It's... Embarrassing and really throwing off his groove, but he clears his throat. Composure, poise, fortitude—he must present himself to be an honorable man. Smile with kindness and grace, not apprehension.
He doesn't roll off of Steven, however. It seems he has planted himself here. It's the body heat the coaxes him in loaf around, forcing him to close his eyes in attempts to inhibit this lingering headache. ]
I'll wait until you personally invite me again... That is, if you ever decide to. You seemed quite earnest?
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his fingertips trail up from riley's hips, gentle and idle. ]
That's a good way to hold yourself. As luck may have it, I find myself enjoying the company of gentlemen the most...
[ it's a phrase that can be interpreted in a myriad of ways; the way it's said with nothing more than a calm expression leaves it open. when his hands reaches his shoulders they drop to rest on the mattress, not asking for any more contact. ]
Though I'd like to learn more about you on a basis of sobriety first, I think that will be likely.
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Running his fingers through his own hair, he's not sure how to begin. There's a thoughtful hum as he ponders where to start. ]
As you probably already know, I have an interest in ores and the potential of Pokemon. [ He taps his bottom lip with a finger. ] I have an interesting ability to sense auras—and quite the amount of stories from my childhood regarding that.
Would you like to hear one?
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If you're comfortable with sharing, I'd be glad to. Admittedly, my knowledge on the aura phenomenon is quite limited.
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You can say aura is the essence of life and only few can see it, let alone manipulate it.
[ Closing his eyes, he tries to recall a memory. Maybe something fond. ]
When I was a child, I told a girl around my age her aura was ugly—what happens next is obvious. Definitely one of my less tactful moments.
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though he does have to bring a hand up to his mouth, hiding a small smile at his story. ]
I can imagine so. You certainly get points for honesty...
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That's a nice way to put it, almost encouraging. Unfortunately, I didn't seem all too happy about it—actually, she burst into tears, then I did the same.
[ Hm... ]
I apologize. This is probably the least ideal pillow talk.
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his reflex is to lay a hand on riley's back to keep him there, but he relents. ]
I'm sure it was a lesson learned. [ but he shakes his head. ] On the contrary, I'm enjoying it. I've never been one for idle conversation.
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No offense at all to the former Champion, but it's all surreal. However, it may be the pedestal Riley has put him on for reputation and aura alone—a man almost untouchable.
... For the most part. ]
I'll take your word for it. [ But he's still uneasy about this all which shows in how he shifts on top of him. ] Since I shared, it's only fair that you do the same.
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You want to hear an embarrassing childhood story?
[ steven would have been popular with girls... if he was given the time to hang out with them, which he wasn't. before he had insisted on leaving home to go on a journey of his own, his days were spent being groomed to become the devon corporation's future heir. there wasn't really anything funny about it, so he keeps quiet about stating his lack of childhood socialization outright. ]
Let's see... Before I was old enough to have a Pokémon of my own, I had several pet rocks. Much to my father's chagrin, I insisted on bringing them along wherever I went - corporate functions included. I found them to be much better company than the other people in attendance.
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[ There's a complacent expression on his face, amicable but ultimately entertained. Is it bad that he isn't too surprised Steven's childhood gravitates about ores? It definitely doesn't take away the quaint quality of the story. Riley continues to smile politely, but his facade breaks when he lets out a couple of chuckles. ]
Rock pets... That's cute. I wonder if you moved on to a rock lover as you grew older. What was their name?
[ He can't let this go, sorry. A little teasing doesn't hurt anyone! ]
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