hydrangeabloom | Mafia AU

[ Oh. Oh. It was a rare strain of glaze lily? Score! Ajax is going to go back to that girl and give her a big tip. Like really big! Little did she know that she just helped him impress his date. (Not that is was hard to impress someone as amiable and kind as Mister Zhongli, but still... still— good deeds should be rewarded. And something something Liyue and repaying debts.) ]

Oh no, no— I like hearing about it. And I'd like to hear more. Though it was luck that brought you such a rare flower rather than any skill on my part. Aha~ not that I'm complaining.

[ Ajax hands smooth over the menu in front of him, the stylized Liyuen kanji blending into an unreadable mass before his eyes. Now, Ajax was well versed in the culture and language of Liyue. He'd been stationed here for quite a while after all. And even though the pronunciation of his k's and g's gave him away as a foreigner from Snezhnaya, he was capable enough to conduct all sort of over the counter and under the table dealings.

But this—

Stylized and slightly archaic way of writing— completely beyond him. Good thing he wasn't too picky about what he ate. ]

Not really, no. I think I might have tried it once during a business lunch but was too distracted by work to properly enjoy the meal. I'd love the chance to enjoy it properly.

[ The grin he gives Zhongli is eager as he slides his own menu under Zhongli's. ]

You'll take good care of me, won't you?

[Zhongli's warm smile aims to be a beacon of reassurance, the glint in his golden eyes more than happy with taking the reins of ordering the best dishes of the establishment. He sets aside the menu, and the waiter, a silent specter in the background awaiting their orders with a poised demeanor and distant as had been requested, comes forth with a bow of their head.]

Allow me, then, [he smiles at Ajax before turning to the waiter.] For starters, we will have the Spicy Tofu. And perhaps the Pork with Honey Sauce for our main course. We'll drink some chrysanthemum tea as well.

[As he speaks, Zhongli's keen gaze drifts to the glaze lily resting in the glass of water before them, the delicate petals of the flower unfurl gracefully, and he can't help but be delighted about it, his eyes warming.

The waiter tells him that the pork meat has been cooked slowly for 5 hours, so the timing is perfect for the dish.]

Wonderful. Does that sound agreeable to you, Ajax? [Zhongli inquires, curious.] Or is there something else on the menu that catches your discerning eye?

[ Ajax zones out for a bit, too mesmerized by seeing the glaze lily bloom upon the table to register the more detailed parts of Zhongli's order. Were they supposed to do that? He'd never seen that particular flower (except for the carefully manicured ones near the Qixing's buildings) until yesterday. Were they nocturnal then?

He snaps quickly to attention when Zhongli calls out his name (as if his every sense wouldn't snap to attention at the wonderful sound of Zhongli's voice): ]

Sure. Sure. But do you mind if we also add a seafood dish? We are near the harbor, after all.

[ He brings a hand to his head, scratching it in confusion for a moment— ]

Or was that the other famous style of Liyue cuisine...?

[ And will he be given a disappointed frown from both Mister Zhongli and their waiter if he orders the specialty from another restaurant? Liyue merchants had a pride in their wares that was borderline ruthless after all.

Ah, Ajax continues to nervously ruffle his hair only to realize he is ruffling it and smooth it back down to something presentable at this establishment. ]

Never mind. That sounds wonderful. Let's start with that!

[As the waiter retreats to convey their order to the kitchen, Zhongli notices Ajax's fascination with the glaze lily, a soft smile playing on his lips.]

It's beautiful, isn't it? [he remarks, his gaze gentle as he observes the delicate bloom.

When Ajax questions whether the seafood dish was from another renowned restaurant, Zhongli nods in confirmation.] Indeed, it is the Xinyue Kiosk specializes in Yue cuisine, particularly known for seafood dishes. Perhaps we can try that on our next outing.

[He pauses, considering Ajax's preferences with a touch of bashfulness.] I must admit, I'm not particularly fond of seafood myself, [he confesses, his expression sheepish.] It's a matter of texture rather than flavor. However, I'm open to trying dishes such as seafood tofu, where the seafood is incorporated differently.

[As he speaks, Zhongli reaches out to gently smooth down a stray lock of Ajax's hair, a gesture that feels oddly familiar. In the background, the waiter comes to serve them their tea, fragrant and heady.] There we go,[he murmurs, his touch light and comforting.] All tidy.

[ "On our next outing..."

That combined with the playful and affectionate touch to his hair has Ajax sporting a wide grin. Score! This was nice (really really nice) after the comedy of errors and no-shows that occurred last night. Finally, things were looking up! Ajax leans into the touch much like a puppy asking for more skritches but behaves (somehow) when Zhongli pulls his hand back even though he very much would like to indulge more.

His eyes drift over to Zhongli's always immaculately tied back hair, gears already visibly turning in his head as he schemes. ]

Hey hey, no need to be ashamed. We all have our likes and dislikes, yeah?

[ Except maybe for Ajax who would shovel anything and everything into his mouth, partially because they couldn't afford to be picky when he was younger and now because he was usually too busy in his double life to sit down and enjoy a meal like this. ]

It's settled then. One order of seafood tofu.

[ There's a moment of hesitation then, Ajax's features scrunching into something more boyish as he decides his next move. It's like chess, right? (It's not like chess.) Match your opponent but don't overextend. Don't be hasty!

And with all the nonchalance of a Fontainian blubberbeast, Ajax casually places one of his own hands over Zhongli's. ]

[As Ajax confidently settles on a compromise, Zhongli's smile widens, pleased with the choice.] I appreciate it. I'm certain you'll find it to your liking if you are to try it.

[There's a sudden, unexpected warmth spreading through Zhongli as Ajax's hand comes to rest over his own. It's a simple gesture, yet it carries a weight of intimacy that catches Zhongli off guard. His heart skips a beat, his pulse quickening slightly as he meets Ajax's gaze with a soft, surprised expression.

Ajax's eyes hold a playful glimmer, his features reflecting a boyish charm that Zhongli finds endearing. Without a word, this is such a gesture that speaks volumes of something, and Zhongli, for once, finds himself at a loss.

Zhongli's gaze drops to his hand, the warmth of their touch sending a shiver down his spine. Slowly, he turns his hand—

—And the waiters slip by and announce the first round of meals to be served.] Ah. There we go. [He nods appreciatively for the waiters' service, and he removes his hand to point at the dishes before them.] This is the Spicy Tofu. Would you hand me your plate?

Xiansheng is such a gentleman.

[ But Ajax does hand over the aforementioned plate, quite pleased with himself that Zhongli seemed pleased with the small showing of physical affection. (And more secretly pleased that he did not pull away at the immediate return of the waiter.) Yes, yes. This whole experience was becoming quite the balm on his sour mood as of earlier today.

He watches Zhongli portion out the dishes the same way he does everything— with an effortlessly elegance and refinement that Ajax only associates with the few shared banquests with the head of the Fatui herself. ]

Though uh—

[ Right — the elephant in the room that Ajax had been secretly dreading this whole time. ]

It's probably bad manners to ask for a knife and fork in a place as fancy as this, yeah?

[Zhongli's eyebrows arch ever so slightly in surprise at Ajax's question.] Oh? [The corners of his lips twitch with amusement, though he shakes his head.] You should not be concerned about propriety. Though I must admit, it's rare to see someone in Liyue request utensils other than chopsticks.

[He reaches for his own pair, deftly picking up a piece of spicy tofu and placing it onto Ajax's plate.] Have you not learned how to use chopsticks during your time here? [Zhongli inquires gently, his tone carrying a hint of teasing.] You've been in Liyue for quite some time now. Surely you've had ample opportunity to become proficient with them?

[Zhongli's gaze softens with a hint of amusement, giving some sort of respite to his taunting as he observes Ajax's reaction. He's fond, even if a bit challenging. Ajax has been daring, earnest. Something like this seems just a small setback in comparison.] However, if you find using chopsticks challenging, I'd be more than happy to offer my assistance. Would you like me to teach you?

Xiansheng!

I feel like I'm being judged. Are you judging me?

[ Though the tone is good-natured even as Ajax pinkens just a little across the cheeks and tips of his ears. On one hand, he is obviously going to look like a fool in front of this person that he is trying to impress. But on the other hand, he'd do a number of shameless things to keep Zhongli looking at him with that fond and teasing smile.

Just to prove how awful he is at chopsticks, Ajax makes a brave attempt to pick up the piece of spicy tofu that has been placed on his plate. It can't be that hard, right? Zhongli made it look so easy. And it's right there practically at his mouth so all he has to do is not fuck up during the short distance from his plate to said mouth. With his chopsticks crossed precariously in almost an x-shape, he picks up the tofu on the third try, grin cheeky as he brings it up a few centimeters off the plate only to have it plop back down with a squelchy slap. Truly unappetizing. To add insult to injury, the way he was holding the chopsticks and trying to save his pride results in severing said tofu into two unequal pieces.

Oh woe is Ajax, who should look ashamed but instead holds out his hand enthusiastically for assistance instead. (Ah getting all giddy for hand-holding with Zhongli. He's so down bad for this man.) ]

Yes! Teach me. Teach me!

[Zhongli can't help but find Ajax's reaction endearing, the slight flush of embarrassment only adding to his charm. There's a genuine earnestness in his attempts, a willingness to try his best even in the face of potential embarrassment, that tugs at Zhongli's heartstrings. It's moments like these that make Zhongli feel fond of him, appreciating his efforts to seek his approval.

With a soft chuckle, Zhongli nudges his chair closer to Ajax's, their proximity allowing him to guide Ajax's hands through the motions of using chopsticks. He sets himself close, their knees brushing gently under the table as Zhongli demonstrates the proper grip and technique.]

Here, let me show you. Hold the bottom chopstick steady with your thumb and ring finger, like this. [He gently adjusts Ajax's hand, guiding his fingers into position.] Now, use your index finger and middle finger to hold the top chopstick, applying just enough pressure to pick up the food.

[As he speaks, Zhongli demonstrates the motion, his touch light and sure as he guides Ajax's hands through the motions.] I'll admit, tofu may be challenging considering its smooth texture. Let's try picking a vegetable to measure the pressure you need to use, [he encourages, his gaze fixed on Ajax's hands as he guides him to pick up a piece.] Remember, Ajax: holding something too tightly may make it break. With a gentle touch, you'll find things respond much more readily.

[ Oh no.

Oh no.

Chopsticks were a mistake. A very very big mistake as now Ajax is supposed to be doing something that is not listening to the deep soothing tenor of Zhongli's voice saying something about "response" and "gentle touch" while Zhongli's hand is warm and steady over his. Zhongli is wrong. Absolutely positively wrong. Gentle can break something as equally as holding something tight — just in very different ways. And wouldn't Ajax enjoy if Zhongli were to — ... No. Bad Ajax. Not right now. This is about using wooden sticks to shovel food into one's mouth—

Pull yourself together, Ajax. Focus! ]

Mmmhmmm. Yeah. I see. Gentle. —gently.

[ That is to say — Ajax tries to act more like a student and less of a crushing puppy as he lets Zhongli guide his hand to pick up some leafy green that he should know the name of. His single-minded determination to impress the other man keeps his thumb and ring finger locked in position as he tries to maneuver the chopsticks with his other two fingers. It's marginally successful — at least pincered instead of stabbed — as the vegetables wobbles in the space in front of them precariously. ]

Like this?

[Zhongli can't help but smile at Ajax's earnest attempt, his eyes warm with encouragement as he watches him navigate the chopsticks with determination. Despite the initial struggle, there's a noticeable improvement in Ajax's technique, a testament to his willingness to learn and adapt.]

That's it, [he murmurs a gentle reassurance.] You're getting the hang of it. Just a bit more finesse, and you'll have it.

[With a careful nudge of his own chopsticks, Zhongli helps steady the piece of vegetable between Ajax's chopsticks, offering a supportive guide as Ajax attempts to lift it.] A little more pressure, [he advises, his touch light as he adjusts Ajax's grip ever so slightly.] Just enough to secure the food without crushing it.

[As Ajax makes another attempt, Zhongli can't help but feel a swell of pride at his progress.] Yes, like that, [he encourages, his smile widening as Ajax manages to lift the vegetable successfully.] Well done, Ajax. You're a quick learner.

[ Yes. Good. Praise Ajax more. He basks in it like a cat rolling around in a sunbeam. It's warm— warmer than the icy pride the Tsarista has for her youngest Vanguard. Warmer than his parents' thanks as he puts food on the table with a smile even if in hushed whispers they doubted the credibility of his occupation. Could a toy salesman (even the world's finest as Teucer liked to proclaim) earn that much? (No. No they could not.) Not quite as warm as the unending affection he has for his siblings and his siblings for him, but—

Zhongli's warmth was dangerous in its intensity. In how it quickly had caught Ajax's attention. If not for the fact that he had approached Zhongli first (and the crushing, er, stalking capabilities of a talented hitman like himself), Tartaglia would certainly doubt its authenticity on principal. But oh, lucky for him, that Zhongli had turned out to be exactly as presented — an old fashioned old soul of a funeral parlor worker.

Childe grins like a student who was just told they received full marks on their test: ]

A student is as only good as their teacher.

[ The words are corny, cliche and predictable— yet Ajax offers them eagerly anyway because the feedback loop the two of them have found themselves in. Flattery for praise in an endless circle even if it was obvious how much more thirstily Ajax drank from their interactions.

And speaking of corny and cliche—

With the next piece of vegetable clutched within the grasp of slightly trembling chopsticks, Ajax lifts it up to Zhongli's mouth so that he might taste the fruits of his teachings. Quite literally, in fact. ]

See for yourself.

[Zhongli's heart skips a beat as Ajax's chopsticks hover so close to his lips. There's a flicker of surprise in Zhongli's golden eyes, a silent question that hangs between them in the air. In this elegant, dimly lit restaurant, surrounded by the whispers of other diners and the gentle clinking of cutlery, Zhongli finds himself caught in this moment. It's not that he's averse to such gestures of intimacy. No, Zhongli has shared countless meals with friends and companions, relishing in the camaraderie and warmth of each shared bite. Ajax has been flirtatious since he sat down in front of him to play chess, writing his number sneakily on his newspaper by the obituary section, asking him out so boldly. But this—this feels different. This feels like a declaration, a bold statement of affection that Zhongli isn't entirely sure how to respond to.

To indulge in such a display of intimacy here feels uncouth, even if it's just a simple taste of food. And yet, as Zhongli meets Ajax's earnest gaze, he finds himself unable to turn it away.

With a soft exhale, Zhongli relents, parting his lips to accept the offering from Ajax's chopsticks. The taste is familiar yet new, a delightful blend of flavors that dance across his tongue. He will never underestimate the power of a connection forged through the simple act of sharing a meal, and this is one of those times that solidifies that.]

Mm, [Zhongli hums appreciatively, savoring the taste as he meets Ajax's gaze once more.] Delicious, [he compliments, his voice warming genuinely. Affection replied with the same kind.] Well done, Ajax. I'm impressed.

Mr. Zhongli! All these compliments are going to go to my head. You're going to make me blush.

[ Which he does — a deep pink that spreads across his nose all the way to his ears. Oh, but he's never embraced a blush so much in his life.

Eager to draw out even more praise from Zhongli, Ajax carefully picks up the next bite of food just as he's taught. His fingers blanch white a second as he almost loses his grip on the saucy vegetable, but sheer determination brings it to his mouth even as the lacquered chopsticks creak ominously. ]

Look. Look! Indirect kiss.

[ Ajax chomps on the next bite with a huge grin, more pleased than he should be with his own teasing. It doesn't matter that he's going to struggle and make himself like a fool for the rest of the night with these chopsticks. It doesn't matter if Zhongli even chides him for being well... being like this. (Because he also knows that Zhongli won't. For some reason, Zhongli is amused by his antics.)

He can't remember the last time he felt this at ease in another person's company. He can't remember ever paying so close attention to another person because he wanted to and not because he needed to for his job. He can't remember ever feeling this kind of emotional high off of anything that wasn't the clean slip of his blade between someone's ribs. And he is going to savor every minute of this dinner date.

Because it's now official a date now, isn't it? Yes it is!

Ajax places a hand before his mouth, swallowing as to not talk with his mouth full. His mama raised him with much (some?) better manners that that. ]

I bet you taste better.

[Zhongli can't help but be amused by Ajax's playful teasing, the blush that tints his cheeks only adding to his charm. He finds himself drawn to his infectious energy, the way he effortlessly weaves humor and flirtation into their conversation. The mention of the "indirect kiss" brings a soft chuckle from Zhongli, the idea of such a lighthearted gesture is both strangely jovial and delightful. It's a refreshing change of pace from the somber atmosphere of his usual encounters, and Zhongli finds himself enjoying every moment of it.

However, Ajax's final flirtation catches Zhongli off guard, causing him to choke slightly on his tea. His golden eyes widen in surprise, a faint flush dusting his cheeks as he struggles to regain his composure. This man. This man and his way with words. His way to push the boundaries just a bit further, stretch that line just to see if it'll break. He'll grant credit where it is due: Zhongli finds himself momentarily speechless, his mind racing as he tries to formulate a response, bringing up a napkin to dab at his lips.

He clears his throat and raises his eyes to meet Ajax's even before he has folded the napkin and set it on his lap again.

If that's how Ajax is being, then it's only fair to meet him halfway.] Well, yes. I do.

[ One chopstick falls to the table with a lacquered clatter and a scandalized pearl-clutching gasp. ]

Xiansheng!

[ Exclaimed as if Zhongli was being the rude boundary pusher this evening instead of yours truly. ]

You can't just say that! — Well, I mean you can. You did. But then I'm going to want to say something. Something that's not first dinner date appropriate. And that's not proper wooing, now is it? I'm trying really hard to be proper!

[ (Is he though?)

Explanation finished, Ajax picks up the fallen chopstick and slots it into place between his fingers just as Zhongli showed him not a few moments before. — And then holds his hand out expectantly for Zhongli to readjust his grip to perfection once more. ]

Unless you want me to be improper. Then that's a whole different story.

[Zhongli can't help but chuckle at Ajax's reaction, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he watches him scramble to recover from his bold statement. It's endearing, really, how Ajax pushes for the flirtation and then can't handle it when it's retaliated, all while maintaining a semblance of decorum.

It's refreshing, this openness and honesty, the willingness to engage in such playful banter without reservation. And Zhongli finds himself drawn to it, captivated by Ajax's infectious energy and charm. How endearing that he's setting a standard for courting him so strictly. He wonders what made him believe that he'd be clutching his pearls at this point.

With a deliberate motion, Zhongli adjusts Ajax's grip on the chopsticks, his touch lingering just a fraction longer than necessary.]

As much as I appreciate your efforts to be proper, Ajax, [Zhongli begins, his tone teasing yet sincere, voice low—the clatter had been enough to draw the attention of some of the staff, after all.] I have to admit, I rather enjoy your...impropriety.

[With a final reassuring smile, Zhongli releases Ajax's hand, his heart lighter and his spirits lifted. He leans back, pouring them both some more tea.] For now, let's focus on enjoying our dinner, shall we? We can save the improper behavior for another place.

Oho? Then I will my very best to be improper at all the proper times, Xiansheng.

[ The warmth to his hand (and his cheeks) return as Zhongli adjusts the chopsticks once more. While it is true that a way to Childe's heart is through his stomach (shared meals always had a certain emotional attachment to them), praise was a secret cheat code that fast-tracked the efforts much more effectively. And so Childe beams at Zhongli as he carefully picks up another piece, utilizing his instructions to the best of ability for a wobbly improvement. ]

So then should I ask you about your day? Or are you the kind of person who likes to keep your personal and professional life separate?

[ The tone is genuine as is the interest. But also Childe makes a mental note to look up proper tea etiquette (something he never cared about before) to make sure that he wasn't also supposed to be pouring tea for his lunch partner whenever his cup ran dry.

Ah— he probably should have paid more attention to such silly details at formal dinners among the Harbingers. ]

[Zhongli listens attentively to Ajax's question, his gaze thoughtful as he considers his response. While he's accustomed to keeping his personal and professional life separate, Zhongli can't deny the genuine interest in Ajax's inquiry. It's a welcome change from the usual small talk, a chance to share a glimpse of his life beyond the confines of the funeral parlor. He can't help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment settle over him. There's something inherently comforting about Ajax's presence, a sense of familiarity and ease that he finds himself drawn to.]

Well, you see, Ajax. I do work as a consultant for a funeral parlor, but I'm actually retired. There's not much excitement in my days anymore, I'm afraid.

[His eyes glimmer softly as he peers at him over his tea.] Though I suppose life does come with some surprises. The most intriguing gentleman sat with me for a game of chess a few days ago.

[He pauses, a hint of wistfulness in his eyes as he reflects on his past.] How about you, can I ask how was your day?

Retired?

[ The piece of meat Ajax was precariously balancing midway to his mouth hits his plate with a sad squishy flop. Say what now?! ]

At your age?

[ He whistles long and low as he attempts to pick up the now squished morsel once, twice— before trying to discreetly stab it without the other noticing. As long as he keeps his expression animated enough— ]

Man. I must be in the wrong profession. Ahhh~ our banker always did say there was more money in consulting.

[ Because really, how old could Zhongli be? Older than Ajax obviously but probably not even yet in his mid-thirties unless there was some Liyuen beauty secret that he was woefully unaware of. To think— retired and also living the lifestyle that could allow casual dining at this place! ]

I'm afraid my own retirement is even farther away today than it was yesterday. I was managing a deal that kind of— well, let's just say it fell apart. Badly.

So I really appreciate the invite, Mr. Zhongli. It's really taking the sting off, yanno. Bet I'd be sulking in ice cream and firewater otherwise.

[Zhongli chuckles softly.]

Yes, retired, [he confirms with a gentle smile, though there is a hint of nostalgia in his voice.] I suppose I may not look the part, do I? Perhaps I've managed to preserve my youth better than most, or maybe I simply have good genes.

[As Ajax recounts his challenging day, Zhongli listens with empathy, his thoughts drifting to times when he himself had been neck-deep in work, striving to keep his family afloat despite the odds. He admires Ajax's resilience, recognizing a kindred spirit. Hardy, driven. Ambitious, if he were to make assumptions.]

I'm very sorry to hear that, Ajax, [Zhongli offers sincerely, his gaze softening with empathy. He can't help but reflect on his past, the times when things went awry for his family. Those were days when he'd find himself neck-deep in work, dealing with the aftermath and trying to piece things back together.

Yet, amidst the memories, there's a sense of gratitude for the present moment, for the chance to enjoy a meal with someone as vibrant and spirited as Ajax. There's a genuine desire to offer comfort, to be a source of solace in times of trouble.] It sounds like you've had quite the challenging day. But I'm glad I could offer some reprieve. While ice cream and firewater may have their appeal, I believe enjoying a meal with good company may lighten your heart better.

[Perhaps this is an attempt at light-hearted conversation, but Zhongli can't help himself, shifting his weight on the stately chair of the restaurant and tracing the brim of his cup thoughtfully with the tip of his finger.] You're welcome anytime, Ajax. If you ever need someone to talk to or just a distraction from the challenges of the day, you know how to find me.

[As he speaks, the fingers on the cup move to brush lightly against Ajax's. Then, with a smile that could be described as coy, Zhongli leans in slightly, earnest. His security detail would have his neck if he could for offering his availability so promptly. But he's aware that Xiao always will defer to his own decisions, so he'll only have Zhongli's ears instead.]

Would you care to join me for a walk in the harbor after our meal? It always helps me clear my mind when I'm troubled. Perhaps you'd like that too?

[ Honestly, the sincerity in Zhongli's concern catches Ajax a bit off guard. Failure was failure, after all, and certainly nothing to be coddled over. He can't recall the last time someone had showed encouragement toward him over a mistake. But yeah, — yeah, Zhongli was the type of person who probably encouraged people with kindness and compassion. So it should come as no surprise that he'd be equally kind to Ajax even knowing nothing about what had transpired.

(Maybe if he really knew what Ajax had been trying to do, he wouldn't be so generous.) ]

You're sweeter than any ice cream, Xiansheng. I much prefer to be in your company. So don't too be too generous, yeah? Because I'll definitely take advantage.

[ What was meant to be flirty immediately backfires when Zhongli looks at him like that, however. Dear Archons, his face must be red as his hair at this point and still Zhongli had the audacity to look... what was that anyway? Fond? Ugh. (He's so down bad.)

Ajax's fingers twitch as Zhongli brushes up against them, itching to take Zhongli's hand in his. But he really shouldn't—

No. Why shouldn't he? Who was Ajax to not take every opportunity and embrace it for what it was worth? He wouldn't be where he was today if he was prone to reservation and safety.

So he takes Zhongli's hand, thumb brushing over the lines in his palm. ]

I'd like that. I'd like that a lot.

[ Now if only his words could be as smooth... ]

[They may not be as smooth, but they do cause a swell of warmth in Zhongli's chest, his heart skipping a beat at his words' unexpected tenderness and utter earnestness. He watches Ajax's fingers interlace with his own, the touch sending a pleasant shiver down his spine. It's a bold move, but he finds himself welcoming the gesture with a sense of anticipation, his own thumb finding a patch of skin to stroke back. This man, with his brash confidence and genuine charm, has managed to stir something within Zhongli that he hadn't realized was there.]

You're too kind, Ajax, [he replies with a gentle smile, his gaze lingering on Ajax's face for a moment longer than necessary.] But I wouldn't have it any other way.

[He makes to move his leading hand to the waiter, realizes it's the one intertwined with his guest's, and stops in his tracks with a squeeze of his fingers. He uses the other hand instead to turn his attention to the waiter, announcing their decision to indulge in dessert. He will not let go of that hand until the dish is slipped in front of them, and only after he explains how it makes a delicate concoction of sweetened lotus seeds and osmanthus petals, served with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. Zhongli can't help but steal glances at Ajax even as they eat, a smile as he takes the first bite.

Ah, he had thought that a small crush would have been for his younger, more impetuous years. How dangerous.

When they do leave the restaurant, the cool night air feels crisp against their warmed skin.

(And if the bill wasn't even shown at the table, strange as that is, no one complained. If Ajax protested he would be only met with surprised arched eyebrows as if no one knew what he'd be talking about.)] I hope you enjoyed dinner. It meant a lot to me to share this meal with you.

[ Holding hands with Zhongli like this is nice. The dessert that Zhongli ordered that Childe would not be able to pronounce no matter how hard he tried was nice. Being able to grin at the waiter with wide eyes that practically say "Look at how utterly hot and refined my date is" is nice.

What is less than nice is that Childe is beaten to the bill without even knowing that a battle was being waged. And as sweet as the gesture is, his pride will not stand for it! ]

Xiansheng—

[ His voice is a bit of a petulant whine even as he keeps one hand carefully tucked away in the older man's elbow, letting the both of them wander to the famed night market of Liyue, tucked away at the docks of the Harbor that was said to be the founding part of the city. Liyue, being a central hub of commerce, never slept. And such a phrase was doubly true for the night market.

(Anything and everything could be bought there after all. For the right price and the right client.) ]

It was nice. Really nice. I enjoyed it a lot. But—

C'mon, you have to let me get you something in return. Ah, you even got dessert. I'm much too well-off to be a sugar baby! And I want to spoil you, too.

Mafia AU

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