[ he thinks about that― "if things were reversed"― and he admits to himself that yes, it would probably play out in a similar way, with him waving his injuries away and possibly giving Prompto a headache about it. which isn't to say that Clive has a headache right now. if anything, he's grateful that Prompto is allowing him this closeness when it might be the case that Prompto would like some space.
but then he turns, and says that. Clive's busy heart aches in his chest again, affection and worry and everything else that's yet unnameable reverberating through his chest. ]
...I know. [ his hand slides from damp hair, down to cup Prompto's cheek. ] It only makes me want you more.
[ and it makes him afraid of losing, and makes him terrified of seeing (or, worse, not being able to see) Prompto hurt. like everyone else who has ever showed Clive kindness, or grace, or patience. ]
I'd thought I was starting to get accustomed to this world. ...And yet, when left to my own, I felt your absence so starkly.
[ he hadn't thought he'd have the energy, but he flushes with such a stark statement, trying to turn his face into clive's hand in an attempt to let it pass. it's not as if they're sitting in a way that allows him to see much beyond his shoulders and the sides of his head, but...
it only makes me want you more.
prompto doesn't think anyone has ever said anything like that to him before. ]
It takes some getting used to, that's for sure. [ and he wonders how clive would have felt in such a busy city like insomnia—if it was still standing. ] Maybe we should just stick together from now on. Even if it takes twice as long. [ because there's no real hurry, is there? except the unknown clock ticking down to the moment clive returns home.
prompto sighs. ] I just wanna spend as much time with you as I can anyway.
[ Clive finally relaxes a bit more when Prompto leans and presses against his palm with almost catlike sweetness, and reciprocates by smoothing over his cheek with a thumb. it's gratifying, not to have to squeeze the breadth of his affection through a keyhole, second-guessing whether it will be accepted.
he smiles, though he knows Prompto will probably miss it from this angle. ]
You don't find it unseemly that a grown man would miss you after only a handful of minutes away?
[ the tone is light, instead of self-deprecating. acknowledging how absurd the concept of missing someone after only a handful of hours is, but also stating it without much in the way of shame. Prompto should know that Clive is crazy for him.
he kisses the back of Prompto's neck again, urging him to give Clive more of his weight. ]
[ there's just always something about the way clive speaks that relaxes him, so it doesn't take much for prompto to fully press back against him. he carefully attempts to stretch out his legs, hissing softly at the dull throb that's beginning to overtake the entire bruised area. but rather than focus on it, he closes his eyes and thinks about every point of contact between them.
back to chest, thighs, arms... ]
Mm, nope. Nothing weird about that at all. [ it's mumbled almost like an afterthought, reaching for clive's hand so he can curl his arm around him. ] 'Cuz I missed you too. I like knowing I can turn around and see you.
[ the adrenaline's starting to wear thin now, and he's exhausted, feeling as if he'd just run a marathon. the fight hadn't even lasted that long either. ]
Hey, Clive. [ to get his attention but mostly to say his name. ] If we don't find anything here, there are other places we can look. Or, I dunno. Nothing says we have to wander around forever.
[ Clive lets Prompto have the one arm, while the other reaches sideways for the bottle of body wash he'd set aside before climbing into the tub. he cracks it open and lets some of its contents spill onto Prompto's shoulder, then gently works it over his chest, his arms, to wash away the worst of the splashback blood and grime.
idly, he thinks about doing this for Prompto every day. keeping him comfortable, letting minutes drag into hours. it's a idyllic fantasy: putting down his sword, and just existing for the sake of existing.
lips near Prompto's ear, he hums when called. he likes the sound of his name in that bright voice. ]
If we don't find the answers we seek in this town, I would be content to go anywhere you'd like.
[ apparently, in this world, information isn't isolated to certain lore libraries in specific places. still a staggering thought. ]
Though... if there's any location nearby that would shed more light on Eikons in this world, I would like to go there. I think your people call them 'Astrals'― they bear the same names as the powers vested in me.
[ they won't be able to sit too long in the water once he rinses off the soap, but for now, he's content to let clive do whatever he wants. it's nice, and he's more than comfortable despite the constant reminder of his bruised hip and thigh. prompto's almost lulled into a sort of daze when clive mentions astrals, and all he can do is sort of nod vaguely. ]
There are a few places I know we can visit. [ it's not an uncomfortable topic to discuss, but it's edging closer now to things he misses. people he misses. ] Some of 'em are nearby, but others... I dunno. I never really understood that part of the whole thing – Noct making a pact with the Astrals. He'd be better at explaining it if —
[ his throat immediately closes up, grief wrapping tightly around his tongue. prompto has to swallow sharply to force himself to continue. ]
Anyway, we can go there? Maybe it'll make more sense to you since, uh, you know. You've got that connection and all. [ he idly pushes his fingers between clive's and gives them a gentle squeeze. ] But we can figure all that out tomorrow. Or whenever really.
[ right now? he just wants to savor this moment with him and rest. ]
[ if, Prompto says, then trails off. anyway, Prompto says, and Clive can tell it's something he doesn't want pursued (not now, at least). Clive lets that verbal hiccup go unaddressed, understanding that Prompto will speak about the things that haunt him when he's ready to, or perhaps never at all. everyone is entitled to their secrets, in some form or the other.
so he reassures with a squeeze of his own, fingers tangled in fingers, and hums again. ]
We've just only arrived in this town. We can enjoy our time here for a bit longer.
[ rinsing Prompto off, Clive tips his head. ]
I'd like to try the 'cup noodles' at least once.
[ a less complicated quest than the matter of him existing in this world at all. someone with the vocabulary might call it 'date plans', but honestly, he really does want to spend some harmless time with Prompto. ]
[ for some reason, clive mentioning cup noodles makes him laugh. it's real and amused until it shakes him too much, and he grimaces. ]
Shit, ow. [ his smile can be heard in the way he still chuckles. ] Yeah, we totally have to do cup noodles. I'll get the spicy ones so you can try those too.
[ if there's anything clive has picked up about prompto, it's his tolerance (and love) of hot foods. ]
Tomorrow sound good for that? We should stay in tonight, and order something. Anything you want. [ he'll probably have to explain the concept of room service eventually. ] I'm gonna be pretty useless once we get out of this tub.
[ that, and the thought of laying down is so nice that prompto is already leaning forward to silently cue clive to help him out of the tub. the water's starting to cool, which is sort of unpleasant, and besides, most of the grime from the daemon and the fight has been washed away thanks to those attentive hands. ]
[ that said, Prompto's idea of "spicy" will probably kill Clive....... but he's willing to suffer if it'll put a smile on Prompto's face. as always, the sound of his laugh makes Clive want to kiss it out of his mouth.
maybe when Prompto has more energy to spare for kisses, though. sensing the implicit request to get out of the bath, Clive drains it and helps them lift themselves up and out of the cramped space. Prompto gets wrapped up in the soft hotel bathrobe and hefted back up into Clive's arms to be chauffeured back to bed, and Clive pulls himself into a more comfortable pair of lounge pants once he's made sure that Prompto is comfortable on the mattress. shirtless, steaming, hair unruly.
their bedroom has two of everything, including beds, but Clive sits on the edge of the one that Prompto is occupying, opting to stay close just in case. ]
Do you need anything?
[ water? to turn the TV on? (might take a second.) ]
[ it's strange not having to do much on his own, allowing clive to (essentially) baby him because he knows it'll help in the long run. for once, prompto tries to enjoy it, and while clive is changing, he rearranges some of the pillows to resist the urge to burrow beneath the blankets.
despite his own exhaustion, it's not quite late enough. he doesn't want to be wide awake at some terrible hour in the morning to just stare at the ceiling. ]
You, [ prompto answers truthfully, shifting to make room for him on the mattress. he smiles at him, gaze sweeping over the display right in front of him. ] It's all I really need right now.
[ and want, too, but he doesn't say that out loud. instead, he urges clive to join him on the bed properly, dipping into the pillows and focusing all of his attention on the other man. it dulls the pain to think about something else, fingers teasing at damp strands of dark hair as he gently rubs along the line of his jaw. like this, he isn't so intimidating. like this, prompto could tick away the hours watching and memorizing every part of him, and even then, he'd never get tired of it.
maybe that's why he doesn't add anything else, pushing up to kiss him on the mouth as softly as his touch. ]
[ "you" errs on the side of being lethal. Clive wasn't lying when he said that every affirmation that comes out of Prompto's mouth only makes him want to be with him more: he worries, to some extent, that Prompto might be giving too much of himself too soon, but he'd be a hypocrite if he said so. this bright young man already has so much of his heart in a vicegrip, anyway.
so. they kiss. Clive, with his fingertips brushing along Prompto's jaw, then his chin, tipping him as carefully as he can to deepen the contact just enough to be affectionate without being cloying.
god, he's in too deep. so fucking attached. it didn't take watching Prompto get bodied by a wyvern for Clive to realize it, but it certainly didn't help him moderate his feelings; if anything, it's made him feel even more protective in a way that was completely unplanned for. too much, too soon, too quickly. (the running theme.) ]
...Indulge me any more, and you'll really find me hard to get rid of.
[ warmly, as their lips part. and, despite the content of his words, Clive beams; his eyes narrow in fondness, as if Prompto is the brightest point of light in a three-mile radius. ]
prompto wants to be close to him, let the warmth of his body soak into his until they're just a pile of limbs. and more than likely, it's the desperation beginning to sink in now; a stark awareness of what could have happened had neither of them acted quickly enough or had done things differently. he refuses to let clive put too much distance between them, hand lightly gripping at the back of his neck. ]
Hard or hard? [ he grins as he says it, matching the kind of liveliness reflected in clive's gaze. but he can only hold it for so long, eventually half-groaning and half-laughing at himself. ] Sorry, sorry. Even I know that's just bad. But what can I say? You inspire me.
[ to be stupid, to be silly. to be honest.
it's with those thoughts in mind that prompto kisses him again, slowly and much more encouraging as his fingers slip into clive's hair to hold him close. ]
[ it's stupid how good Prompto feels. Clive is in love with how those fingers tangle in his hair and pull him in, how eager that mouth is to be kissed and explored. he makes a soft sound in the back of his throat, low and content, and slides as close as he can without putting weight on any part of Prompto that he knows must still be screaming in pain.
speaking of: ] Don't provoke me. [ again, an instance where the tone doesn't match what Clive is saying. teeth find Prompto's bottom lip, and nip it with playful chiding. ] You need rest.
[ which is to say: Clive isn't the one with bruises over half his body, and he can and will get hard if Prompto keeps being sweet. a testament, again, to how stupid Prompto makes him feel, eager in ways that Clive has repressed for a long, long time. ]
Unless you want to punish me for my poor performance earlier. You would be entitled.
[ blue-balling him is a very legitimate form of revenge, actually. Clive laughs about it, because it's very absurd. ]
[ clive laughs, and so does prompto, enjoying this so much more than whatever penance he'd sought earlier. it's warm and sweet, the kind of thing he's become familiar with since their unlikely friendship had shifted into much more intimate territory. which is why he makes an effort to press closer, urging clive against him despite the aching throb through certain parts of him. ]
I'm already resting. [ he's in a bed? and he's comfortable. ] You said whatever I need, right? [ prompto punctuates the question with a kiss. ] I'm not gonna punish you. I want to be close to you.
[ he wants to feel him, to know that he's still there with him.
it takes a moment for prompto to find his courage, ignoring the strain of his muscles as he gives clive's hair a forward pull in an attempt to topple him. the positioning is a little awkward, but he doesn't let up, kissing away whatever protests might fall out of clive's mouth. only on a breath does he continue. ]
...Is that okay? [ as if he's going to force clive into something he doesn't actually want. ]
[ as if there's anything else Clive would rather be doing. careful, Clive mouths against Prompto's lips at all the shifting, hand instinctively moving to Prompto's hip before remembering the bruise that sits there, too. all his life, he's spent hurting; he wants to avoid any of it when he's around someone he cares so deeply for.
because he does. unmistakably. Prompto's eyes flick up towards Clive, asking for permission, and Clive thinks that he would agree to anything at this point. ]
More than, [ he breathes. it's actually a Problem, how little of a problem it is to simply stay. ] I want to be as close as you'll let me.
[ even if it makes him ache with everything he won't be able to do, with Prompto in his current condition. ]
You are－ [ another laugh, between kisses. ] ―Irresistible.
he's never had anything like this before, and it's not as if clive knows that particular truth about him (yet). how often he'd spend all his time alone—foster parents who were never home, no real friends until high school. even after that, well... his best friend is gone, and the others he'd stuck by had their own kind of soul-searching to do, which had left him, once again, on his own. but clive pays attention to him and spoils him with sweet words and even sweeter actions.
it's an addicting feeling, one that even overpowers the physical limitations of his body.
prompto huffs out a soft sound of indignation and nudges his nose against clive's before gently knocking their foreheads together. soft affection. ]
Not like you, [ he teases back, finally letting his hands smooth down clive's neck and over his shoulders. ] And I'll so show you when I don't feel so runover. But right now? [ prompto tips his face and kisses the corner of clive's mouth. ] Maybe you should get a little closer.
[ oh. his brow hikes at closer, because the only way to achieve that is either putting his weight on Prompto (out of the question), or having Prompto roll on top of him (probably also not ideal).
which isn't to say that it isn't agonizing, the way Prompto is pressed up against his side in his soft bathrobe, hair damp and smelling like clean bodywash, boneless and pretty and smiling. Clive traces one thumb along the corner of those curved lips, breathing a light, amused exhale, so glad that their mishap didn't lead to him losing someone who is quickly becoming an inextricable part of his life. ]
Closer. [ he parrots. something in his chest flutters with need. ] I can think of more than one way to be 'closer'.
[ more than anything, prompto is a fighter. he wouldn't have stopped without a reason, and clive is more than enough of one for him to keep pushing forward.
a pleasant shiver runs down the length of his spine. ]
You sure? [ the way clive teases him is exciting, a good distraction from the pain and the fight that had led to it. ] You could always tell me if you think that'll be better.
[ it's absurd, really. saying things like this when he means the exact opposite, and prompto turns his face into clive's hand, lightly pressing a kiss to any part of him he can reach. focusing on clive allows him to feel less embarrassed despite the warm flush spreading over his skin, but more than that, it's a miracle his voice remains as steady as it is while being this close to him.
he lets out a quiet breath. ] Or maybe do that and show me at the same time?
[ hm, Clive hums again, as he presses a kiss to Prompto's hair. ]
If you want to know, [ in words, he means, as he slowly sits up and runs a hand through his own hair, now a little mussed from all the tugging. ] Then, I'll say it.
I want to put my mouth on you.
[ blunt, and with intention. he thinks he can finagle the position without putting too much stress on Prompto's body, if he keeps Prompto's hips raised on some pillows and keeps his own weight on his knees, straddled over bruised legs without lowering onto them.
his fingers steal over the front of the soft bathrobe, playing at the loosely-knotted tie. ]
All you need to do is lie back, and let me take care of you.
the direct phrasing does something to him then, shifting slightly and breath hitching at the discomfort of his hip before he focuses on clive and forgets about that too. for the briefest moment, prompto wants to protest—only because it doesn't seem fair. but... if this will help clive in some way, he isn't going to stop him.
lightly, he grips the wrist of the hand toying with the robe and gives it a gentle tug. ]
Okay. [ as if clive really has to convince him. ] But kiss me first.
[ it's almost a question, propping himself up on an elbow and unabashedly staring at his mouth like it's the only thing he can focus on. ]
[ cute, Clive thinks. he can tell that Prompto is either unused to being on the receiving end of a bit of doting, or prefers to give as good as he gets; perhaps a bit of column A, a bit of column B. ]
―Will your mouth get lonely, if I use mine for purposes other than kissing you?
[ a hint of playfulness, as he obliges the request. chaste at first― little pecks, featherlight touches― until he angles and slowly deepens the contact, open-mouthed and indulgent, licking up to rub tongue against tongue.
god, he really could do this all day. he could lose hours kissing and tasting Prompto until Prompto is a puddle on the mattress, flushed and pretty and utterly convinced that Clive is very, very, very enamored by him. ]
Maybe you'd prefer my hand instead, [ he murmurs against Prompto's lips. ] If you want me to keep kissing you.
[ the attention, though lighter than normal, is somehow intensified by the way clive whispers against his mouth, breathing sharper now and very much turned on by the thought. clive's mouth or clive's mouth and his hand? it's a decision he has to make, but not before he leans up to kiss him again.
there's just something so satisfying about being able to do that. ]
Not lonely, [ he breathes, squirming slightly. ] I just... I like your mouth. I like your hands too.
[ there's a whole list of things prompto likes, suddenly keen on surrendering them to him as his free hand rubs along clive's side, tracing skin and muscle all the way to his hip. to the waistline of those loose pants that would be so easy to slip into if he chose to. ]
And I like when you're, um, right here with me. Where I can reach you. [ so, yeah, maybe he should use his hand. ]
[ the sentiment is numbingly sweet. Clive has to sit in it for a moment, coming to terms with how freely it's given, how different it is from how Clive is usually needed. Prompto asks nothing of him except to simply be, near and close, and the reality of that makes his heart clench in a sentiment far too strong to be idle fondness or temporary infatuation.
he leans in to add another kiss to the pile, shifting under Prompto's hand until they're as flush against each other as he can manage without bearing down on anything that might still hurt. it's an agonizing boundary that he'll maintain, because he still can't bear the thought of Prompto in pain. ]
Then I'll stay right here. [ to the tune of whatever you want. ] And enjoy your hands and your mouth, as well.
[ he likes them, too. he likes every inch of Prompto, which he conveys by undoing the front of that soft bathrobe to track his touch down Prompto's chest and stomach, tracing soft, toned skin down towards what he knows is a badly-bruised thigh. he doesn't press his fingers inwards, mindful not to apply pressure; the hand slips up again, featherlight, and pets a slow line between long legs. ]
There's no one in any world that makes me feel as you do, Prompto.
[ a soft statement of truth. he presses it to Prompto's lips again, his own heartbeat too loud in his ears. ]
[ he knows a confession – small as it might be – when he hears one. at first, it's difficult to focus on with clive's hands trailing over skin, igniting desire all the way through him, and it's even harder when there's the lightest pressure between his thighs. but this feels monumental somehow. bigger than all of this, and prompto immediately wriggles a little, withdrawing to grab at the bathrobe and pull it back together as he speaks. ]
Wait, wait. I wanna... [ hopefully, clive doesn't get the wrong idea. and maybe that's why he speeds through an explanation. ] I don't wanna say this when I'm naked and you're, well [ a half-wild gesture ] almost naked.
[ a different flush burns over his skin, brightening some of the freckles on his face and shoulders, but he ignores it, shoving a hand through his hair and raking it back away from his forehead and out of his eyes. insistent, though, prompto looks at him, every word right there in the way he stares at him.
heart on his sleeve. he just has to say it. ]
I know I've told you before – that I like you. But it's more than that. Way more than that. And I know we haven't even known each other that long and all... I dunno. It feels like we have. [ clive is the only one who sees him. ] So, um. This probably sounds so lame, but it's like... I think I've been waiting my whole life for you.
[ which has him holding his breath, hoping that he hasn't just made a huge mistake. ]
[ there's a moment of near-concern, when Prompto squirms and pulls away from Clive's hands. for a moment, he worries that the touches were too much for a person so obviously in discomfort; his brows turn down in contrition until Prompto opens his mouth and starts to explain the why-s and what-s.
yes, he supposes his own admission was as much a confession as any. no one in any world is the same as nothing and no one, after all. you, and no one else. it's Clive's truth now, written into his heart―
―and the realization that Prompto is reciprocating it now, spoken hesitantly and with endearing awkwardness, makes Clive see stars. like being hit over the head with a blunt instrument.
for a moment, words escape him. his chest feels tightly packed― or does it feel like it's expanding too fast? he can't decide. eventually, he finally reaches to place a palm on Prompto's cheek to hold him in place. ]
―And I was put here to find you. To be yours.
[ softly, but with confidence. decisive. a statement like a clean swing of a broadsword; to Clive, nothing exists in the moment outside of Prompto and his beautiful flush. ]
Since the moment I met you, you have ever been my joy.
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but then he turns, and says that. Clive's busy heart aches in his chest again, affection and worry and everything else that's yet unnameable reverberating through his chest. ]
...I know. [ his hand slides from damp hair, down to cup Prompto's cheek. ] It only makes me want you more.
[ and it makes him afraid of losing, and makes him terrified of seeing (or, worse, not being able to see) Prompto hurt. like everyone else who has ever showed Clive kindness, or grace, or patience. ]
I'd thought I was starting to get accustomed to this world. ...And yet, when left to my own, I felt your absence so starkly.
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it only makes me want you more.
prompto doesn't think anyone has ever said anything like that to him before. ]
It takes some getting used to, that's for sure. [ and he wonders how clive would have felt in such a busy city like insomnia—if it was still standing. ] Maybe we should just stick together from now on. Even if it takes twice as long. [ because there's no real hurry, is there? except the unknown clock ticking down to the moment clive returns home.
prompto sighs. ] I just wanna spend as much time with you as I can anyway.
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he smiles, though he knows Prompto will probably miss it from this angle. ]
You don't find it unseemly that a grown man would miss you after only a handful of minutes away?
[ the tone is light, instead of self-deprecating. acknowledging how absurd the concept of missing someone after only a handful of hours is, but also stating it without much in the way of shame. Prompto should know that Clive is crazy for him.
he kisses the back of Prompto's neck again, urging him to give Clive more of his weight. ]
You spoil me.
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back to chest, thighs, arms... ]
Mm, nope. Nothing weird about that at all. [ it's mumbled almost like an afterthought, reaching for clive's hand so he can curl his arm around him. ] 'Cuz I missed you too. I like knowing I can turn around and see you.
[ the adrenaline's starting to wear thin now, and he's exhausted, feeling as if he'd just run a marathon. the fight hadn't even lasted that long either. ]
Hey, Clive. [ to get his attention but mostly to say his name. ] If we don't find anything here, there are other places we can look. Or, I dunno. Nothing says we have to wander around forever.
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idly, he thinks about doing this for Prompto every day. keeping him comfortable, letting minutes drag into hours. it's a idyllic fantasy: putting down his sword, and just existing for the sake of existing.
lips near Prompto's ear, he hums when called. he likes the sound of his name in that bright voice. ]
If we don't find the answers we seek in this town, I would be content to go anywhere you'd like.
[ apparently, in this world, information isn't isolated to certain lore libraries in specific places. still a staggering thought. ]
Though... if there's any location nearby that would shed more light on Eikons in this world, I would like to go there. I think your people call them 'Astrals'― they bear the same names as the powers vested in me.
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There are a few places I know we can visit. [ it's not an uncomfortable topic to discuss, but it's edging closer now to things he misses. people he misses. ] Some of 'em are nearby, but others... I dunno. I never really understood that part of the whole thing – Noct making a pact with the Astrals. He'd be better at explaining it if —
[ his throat immediately closes up, grief wrapping tightly around his tongue. prompto has to swallow sharply to force himself to continue. ]
Anyway, we can go there? Maybe it'll make more sense to you since, uh, you know. You've got that connection and all. [ he idly pushes his fingers between clive's and gives them a gentle squeeze. ] But we can figure all that out tomorrow. Or whenever really.
[ right now? he just wants to savor this moment with him and rest. ]
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so he reassures with a squeeze of his own, fingers tangled in fingers, and hums again. ]
We've just only arrived in this town. We can enjoy our time here for a bit longer.
[ rinsing Prompto off, Clive tips his head. ]
I'd like to try the 'cup noodles' at least once.
[ a less complicated quest than the matter of him existing in this world at all. someone with the vocabulary might call it 'date plans', but honestly, he really does want to spend some harmless time with Prompto. ]
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Shit, ow. [ his smile can be heard in the way he still chuckles. ] Yeah, we totally have to do cup noodles. I'll get the spicy ones so you can try those too.
[ if there's anything clive has picked up about prompto, it's his tolerance (and love) of hot foods. ]
Tomorrow sound good for that? We should stay in tonight, and order something. Anything you want. [ he'll probably have to explain the concept of room service eventually. ] I'm gonna be pretty useless once we get out of this tub.
[ that, and the thought of laying down is so nice that prompto is already leaning forward to silently cue clive to help him out of the tub. the water's starting to cool, which is sort of unpleasant, and besides, most of the grime from the daemon and the fight has been washed away thanks to those attentive hands. ]
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[ that said, Prompto's idea of "spicy" will probably kill Clive....... but he's willing to suffer if it'll put a smile on Prompto's face. as always, the sound of his laugh makes Clive want to kiss it out of his mouth.
maybe when Prompto has more energy to spare for kisses, though. sensing the implicit request to get out of the bath, Clive drains it and helps them lift themselves up and out of the cramped space. Prompto gets wrapped up in the soft hotel bathrobe and hefted back up into Clive's arms to be chauffeured back to bed, and Clive pulls himself into a more comfortable pair of lounge pants once he's made sure that Prompto is comfortable on the mattress. shirtless, steaming, hair unruly.
their bedroom has two of everything, including beds, but Clive sits on the edge of the one that Prompto is occupying, opting to stay close just in case. ]
Do you need anything?
[ water? to turn the TV on? (might take a second.) ]
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despite his own exhaustion, it's not quite late enough. he doesn't want to be wide awake at some terrible hour in the morning to just stare at the ceiling. ]
You, [ prompto answers truthfully, shifting to make room for him on the mattress. he smiles at him, gaze sweeping over the display right in front of him. ] It's all I really need right now.
[ and want, too, but he doesn't say that out loud. instead, he urges clive to join him on the bed properly, dipping into the pillows and focusing all of his attention on the other man. it dulls the pain to think about something else, fingers teasing at damp strands of dark hair as he gently rubs along the line of his jaw. like this, he isn't so intimidating. like this, prompto could tick away the hours watching and memorizing every part of him, and even then, he'd never get tired of it.
maybe that's why he doesn't add anything else, pushing up to kiss him on the mouth as softly as his touch. ]
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so. they kiss. Clive, with his fingertips brushing along Prompto's jaw, then his chin, tipping him as carefully as he can to deepen the contact just enough to be affectionate without being cloying.
god, he's in too deep. so fucking attached. it didn't take watching Prompto get bodied by a wyvern for Clive to realize it, but it certainly didn't help him moderate his feelings; if anything, it's made him feel even more protective in a way that was completely unplanned for. too much, too soon, too quickly. (the running theme.) ]
...Indulge me any more, and you'll really find me hard to get rid of.
[ warmly, as their lips part. and, despite the content of his words, Clive beams; his eyes narrow in fondness, as if Prompto is the brightest point of light in a three-mile radius. ]
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prompto wants to be close to him, let the warmth of his body soak into his until they're just a pile of limbs. and more than likely, it's the desperation beginning to sink in now; a stark awareness of what could have happened had neither of them acted quickly enough or had done things differently. he refuses to let clive put too much distance between them, hand lightly gripping at the back of his neck. ]
Hard or hard? [ he grins as he says it, matching the kind of liveliness reflected in clive's gaze. but he can only hold it for so long, eventually half-groaning and half-laughing at himself. ] Sorry, sorry. Even I know that's just bad. But what can I say? You inspire me.
[ to be stupid, to be silly. to be honest.
it's with those thoughts in mind that prompto kisses him again, slowly and much more encouraging as his fingers slip into clive's hair to hold him close. ]
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speaking of: ] Don't provoke me. [ again, an instance where the tone doesn't match what Clive is saying. teeth find Prompto's bottom lip, and nip it with playful chiding. ] You need rest.
[ which is to say: Clive isn't the one with bruises over half his body, and he can and will get hard if Prompto keeps being sweet. a testament, again, to how stupid Prompto makes him feel, eager in ways that Clive has repressed for a long, long time. ]
Unless you want to punish me for my poor performance earlier. You would be entitled.
[ blue-balling him is a very legitimate form of revenge, actually. Clive laughs about it, because it's very absurd. ]
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I'm already resting. [ he's in a bed? and he's comfortable. ] You said whatever I need, right? [ prompto punctuates the question with a kiss. ] I'm not gonna punish you. I want to be close to you.
[ he wants to feel him, to know that he's still there with him.
it takes a moment for prompto to find his courage, ignoring the strain of his muscles as he gives clive's hair a forward pull in an attempt to topple him. the positioning is a little awkward, but he doesn't let up, kissing away whatever protests might fall out of clive's mouth. only on a breath does he continue. ]
...Is that okay? [ as if he's going to force clive into something he doesn't actually want. ]
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because he does. unmistakably. Prompto's eyes flick up towards Clive, asking for permission, and Clive thinks that he would agree to anything at this point. ]
More than, [ he breathes. it's actually a Problem, how little of a problem it is to simply stay. ] I want to be as close as you'll let me.
[ even if it makes him ache with everything he won't be able to do, with Prompto in his current condition. ]
You are－ [ another laugh, between kisses. ] ―Irresistible.
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he's never had anything like this before, and it's not as if clive knows that particular truth about him (yet). how often he'd spend all his time alone—foster parents who were never home, no real friends until high school. even after that, well... his best friend is gone, and the others he'd stuck by had their own kind of soul-searching to do, which had left him, once again, on his own. but clive pays attention to him and spoils him with sweet words and even sweeter actions.
it's an addicting feeling, one that even overpowers the physical limitations of his body.
prompto huffs out a soft sound of indignation and nudges his nose against clive's before gently knocking their foreheads together. soft affection. ]
Not like you, [ he teases back, finally letting his hands smooth down clive's neck and over his shoulders. ] And I'll so show you when I don't feel so runover. But right now? [ prompto tips his face and kisses the corner of clive's mouth. ] Maybe you should get a little closer.
[ and he smiles into another kiss. ]
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which isn't to say that it isn't agonizing, the way Prompto is pressed up against his side in his soft bathrobe, hair damp and smelling like clean bodywash, boneless and pretty and smiling. Clive traces one thumb along the corner of those curved lips, breathing a light, amused exhale, so glad that their mishap didn't lead to him losing someone who is quickly becoming an inextricable part of his life. ]
Closer. [ he parrots. something in his chest flutters with need. ] I can think of more than one way to be 'closer'.
[ a light hum, considering. ]
Do you want me to show you?
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a pleasant shiver runs down the length of his spine. ]
You sure? [ the way clive teases him is exciting, a good distraction from the pain and the fight that had led to it. ] You could always tell me if you think that'll be better.
[ it's absurd, really. saying things like this when he means the exact opposite, and prompto turns his face into clive's hand, lightly pressing a kiss to any part of him he can reach. focusing on clive allows him to feel less embarrassed despite the warm flush spreading over his skin, but more than that, it's a miracle his voice remains as steady as it is while being this close to him.
he lets out a quiet breath. ] Or maybe do that and show me at the same time?
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If you want to know, [ in words, he means, as he slowly sits up and runs a hand through his own hair, now a little mussed from all the tugging. ] Then, I'll say it.
I want to put my mouth on you.
[ blunt, and with intention. he thinks he can finagle the position without putting too much stress on Prompto's body, if he keeps Prompto's hips raised on some pillows and keeps his own weight on his knees, straddled over bruised legs without lowering onto them.
his fingers steal over the front of the soft bathrobe, playing at the loosely-knotted tie. ]
All you need to do is lie back, and let me take care of you.
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the direct phrasing does something to him then, shifting slightly and breath hitching at the discomfort of his hip before he focuses on clive and forgets about that too. for the briefest moment, prompto wants to protest—only because it doesn't seem fair. but... if this will help clive in some way, he isn't going to stop him.
lightly, he grips the wrist of the hand toying with the robe and gives it a gentle tug. ]
Okay. [ as if clive really has to convince him. ] But kiss me first.
[ it's almost a question, propping himself up on an elbow and unabashedly staring at his mouth like it's the only thing he can focus on. ]
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―Will your mouth get lonely, if I use mine for purposes other than kissing you?
[ a hint of playfulness, as he obliges the request. chaste at first― little pecks, featherlight touches― until he angles and slowly deepens the contact, open-mouthed and indulgent, licking up to rub tongue against tongue.
god, he really could do this all day. he could lose hours kissing and tasting Prompto until Prompto is a puddle on the mattress, flushed and pretty and utterly convinced that Clive is very, very, very enamored by him. ]
Maybe you'd prefer my hand instead, [ he murmurs against Prompto's lips. ] If you want me to keep kissing you.
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there's just something so satisfying about being able to do that. ]
Not lonely, [ he breathes, squirming slightly. ] I just... I like your mouth. I like your hands too.
[ there's a whole list of things prompto likes, suddenly keen on surrendering them to him as his free hand rubs along clive's side, tracing skin and muscle all the way to his hip. to the waistline of those loose pants that would be so easy to slip into if he chose to. ]
And I like when you're, um, right here with me. Where I can reach you. [ so, yeah, maybe he should use his hand. ]
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he leans in to add another kiss to the pile, shifting under Prompto's hand until they're as flush against each other as he can manage without bearing down on anything that might still hurt. it's an agonizing boundary that he'll maintain, because he still can't bear the thought of Prompto in pain. ]
Then I'll stay right here. [ to the tune of whatever you want. ] And enjoy your hands and your mouth, as well.
[ he likes them, too. he likes every inch of Prompto, which he conveys by undoing the front of that soft bathrobe to track his touch down Prompto's chest and stomach, tracing soft, toned skin down towards what he knows is a badly-bruised thigh. he doesn't press his fingers inwards, mindful not to apply pressure; the hand slips up again, featherlight, and pets a slow line between long legs. ]
There's no one in any world that makes me feel as you do, Prompto.
[ a soft statement of truth. he presses it to Prompto's lips again, his own heartbeat too loud in his ears. ]
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Wait, wait. I wanna... [ hopefully, clive doesn't get the wrong idea. and maybe that's why he speeds through an explanation. ] I don't wanna say this when I'm naked and you're, well [ a half-wild gesture ] almost naked.
[ a different flush burns over his skin, brightening some of the freckles on his face and shoulders, but he ignores it, shoving a hand through his hair and raking it back away from his forehead and out of his eyes. insistent, though, prompto looks at him, every word right there in the way he stares at him.
heart on his sleeve. he just has to say it. ]
I know I've told you before – that I like you. But it's more than that. Way more than that. And I know we haven't even known each other that long and all... I dunno. It feels like we have. [ clive is the only one who sees him. ] So, um. This probably sounds so lame, but it's like... I think I've been waiting my whole life for you.
[ which has him holding his breath, hoping that he hasn't just made a huge mistake. ]
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yes, he supposes his own admission was as much a confession as any. no one in any world is the same as nothing and no one, after all. you, and no one else. it's Clive's truth now, written into his heart―
―and the realization that Prompto is reciprocating it now, spoken hesitantly and with endearing awkwardness, makes Clive see stars. like being hit over the head with a blunt instrument.
for a moment, words escape him. his chest feels tightly packed― or does it feel like it's expanding too fast? he can't decide. eventually, he finally reaches to place a palm on Prompto's cheek to hold him in place. ]
―And I was put here to find you. To be yours.
[ softly, but with confidence. decisive. a statement like a clean swing of a broadsword; to Clive, nothing exists in the moment outside of Prompto and his beautiful flush. ]
Since the moment I met you, you have ever been my joy.
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