hydrangeabloom | Mafia AU

[ Ajax practically preens at the hand carding through his hair, leaning in for the affectionate as shameless as Narwhal ever was in begging for attention. Like owner, like pet. Or so it seems.

His next boast will probably sound more conceited if not for how eager to please his expression obviously is: ]

Of course I did. I rise to every challenge!

[ But that hesitation, that guilt that starts to cloud Zhongli's vision. That won't do at all! Not on Ajax's watch. (Never when he was allowed to be Ajax in front of Zhongli.)

Ajax leans in close, hands cupping Zhongli's cheek so his index fingers can poke at the corners of his mouth, pulling them up into a bit of a silly (and coerced) smile. ]

Now now now. No time for whatever that thought was.

I like spoiling you, xiansheng. It's not any more complicated than that. Mmmkay?

[The unexpected intimacy of Ajax's touch, the way his hands cup Zhongli's cheeks and coax a smile from his lips, has him start soft, but easily melted away. The sincerity in Ajax's eyes, the unbridled joy and eagerness to please brushes away any lingering guilt. Zhongli finds himself leaning into the touch in the same way Ajax had leaned into his own fingers in his hair, his hands coming up to gently cradle Ajax's, his thumb brushing over the younger man's knuckles and he titters something low and subtle, amused.]

Bad habits, I'm afraid, [he says softly, his smile bashful but genuine as he admits this.] People keep telling me I have an obsession with fairness.

I can dry it and make it a bookmark, too. [His eyes lift again to meet Ajax's, warm and filled with a newfound sense of ease. The younger man's presence is a balm, soothing the weight of responsibility and the turmoil of the past week. Of any implication of their encounter. To have someone so generously offer him things, somehow that slips under his skin to warm him.] I appreciate your kindness. It means more to me than you know.

[ Warmth begets warmth as Ajax also smiles wider the more at ease that Zhongli seems to feel. Good. Good. This is what he wanted. Ajax was nothing but sincere when he said he wanted to spoil Zhongli, and spoiling wasn't limited to just physical gifts of appreciation. He wanted the other to feel appreciation as well. It was just a nice and convenient bonus that Zhongli found all of Ajax's antics to be charming. ]

Fairness and the aura of responsibility of the eldest brother.

[ Grinning, he loops one arm in Zhongli's and starts heading in the direction of the museum entrance. ]

All of which I hope you don't have a single minute of time to think about as you stand in awe of my prowess over the various forms of chess all around Teyvat.

[ Ajax produces two already paid for entrance tickets once they reach the attendant (haha, take that, Xiansheng! Two can play at that game now that Ajax knows the rules) and inside they slip into a cozy, slightly casual, and ...not very busy homage to all things chess/shogi/go/etc. and adjacent.

Ajax points to a set-up similar to the quaint park table where they met. ]

I thought we'd start with a rematch of the classics.

[Ajax loops his arm through Zhongli’s, and he allows himself to be led toward the museum entrance, feeling a sense of lightness he hasn’t experienced in days. The younger man’s thoughtfulness and eagerness to share this experience with him is heartwarming. Zhongli’s smile widens, a genuine expression of happiness as he watches him produce two tickets, something he cherishes.]

You’ve thought of everything, [he murmurs appreciatively. He allows Ajax to lead the way inside, the cozy and educational atmosphere of the museum enveloping them. While many would find the building slightly stuffy, somehow, Zhongli finds it oh-so comforting.

When Ajax points to a setup reminiscent of the park table where they first met, Zhongli’s heart tugs with nostalgia at the memory of their first encounter.]

A rematch of the classics sounds perfect. I must warn you, though—I’ve been practicing. [His tone is playful, the challenge clear. He takes a seat at the table, gesturing for Ajax to join him.]

Shall we see who has the better strategy today?

Oh yeah?

[ Ajax's fingers squeeze the inside of Zhongli's elbow once, reluctant to let go of that closeness even if planned to re-barnacle himself as soon as he beat Zhongli's butt in this re-match. The only thing more thrilling that getting to be physically affectionate with Zhongli was challenging him after all.

So, Ajax slides into the opposite chair, posture straight and confident smirk at the ready. He threads his fingers together, stretching them out in front of him with a satisfying pop before flexing the feeling back into them. ]

Not as much as I have, I bet! So prepare to be toppled right off of that chess throne.

[ Ajax has seated himself at black again, so he not so patiently waits for Zhongli's first move, forefinger tapping against one of his rooks as he rests his chin in his other hand. ]

Winner gets a kiss from the loser.

Oh? [Zhongli’s golden eyes widen slightly at Ajax’s bold declaration, a faint blush creeping up his neck. The unexpected challenge leaves him momentarily speechless, but the playful glint in Ajax’s eyes soon has him recovering his composure.]

A kiss for the winner,[he murmurs, his tone both contemplative and amused. He chuckles softly, his gaze warm as he meets Ajax’s eyes.] I must say, I don't believe that constitutes a true penalty for the loser.

[Nevertheless, he makes the first move, positioning his pawn. Zhongli’s mind whirls with a mix of strategy and the tantalizing prospect of winning. The thought of the kiss, whether he wins or loses, adds a layer of excitement that he can’t quite shake.]

I’ll do my best to make this match memorable—your move.

[ It really never gets old— seeing Zhongli smile and the flush of pink cross his skin. Ajax couldn't even claim it as a distraction tactic as Zhongli still moved his chess piece with the grace of a man who could very well kick his ass a second time.

But at least he'd have to fight for it! ]

Less of a penalty and more of a responsibility. They get to decide how much of this—

[ Ajax points to himself and then Zhongli before jumping one of his knights in front of the line of pawns. ]

—to escalate. Haha, though I already know where I'd kiss you~

[ Ajax winks. Salaciously. ]

Oh— maybe that should have been the winner's prize instead.

[Zhongli's composure falters for a moment at Ajax’s unabashed boldness. The blatant flirtation catches him off guard, and he feels the heat rise in his cheeks, his fingers curling mid-motion. Clearing his throat, he tries to steady himself, a rueful smile playing on his lips as he meets Ajax's playful gaze.]

You're trying to distract me, [he says, his voice tinged with amusement nonetheless. He makes his next move, advancing another pawn. Steady. Unrelenting.

He looks up from the board, his eyes locking with Ajax’s, something glimmering in the gold.]

If that's your strategy, [he starts, his tone low to not disturb the environment of the museum,] then I wonder if you know where I'd like to be kissed.

[ With not an ounce of shame: ]

I am 100% absolutely trying to distract you.

[ The other knight leaps the line of pawns, both now leading the charge. ]

But now you've turned the tables on me again.

[ He drops his tone equally low, tilting his head just slightly so that he might look at Zhongli through slightly lowered lashes. ]

I want to know. Of course, I do. Is that where this is headed? Haha! But asking is not nearly as fun as finding out for myself.

And I don't know if I want to deny myself that.

[Ajax’s unabashed flirtation is met with a mix of intrigue and curiosity. The openness of his intentions is disarming. Perhaps the man across from him too, seeks a release, a distraction from the tensions that have been mounting during their weeks. The thought is strangely comforting, and Zhongli finds himself more receptive to his advances than he would have ever expected.

For anyone else, he would have set a boundary as tall and impenetrable as the skyscrapers he once ruled over. But with Ajax, he finds himself indulging in this playful little dance of theirs, allowing the younger man's exuberance to draw him in.]

Tut tut, [Zhongli chides softly, though there's no real reprimand in his voice. He finds Ajax amusing and even endearing, even as he makes his next move. His bishop glides across the board, sneaking past the two pieces he had advanced.] You’re quite the handful.

[He meets Ajax’s gaze again, his eyes warm with a mix of challenge and something softer.]

But I must admit, you make this game far more interesting than I anticipated.

[ Ajax watches the bishop slide across the board behind his scouting knights and directly in front of his line of pawns. He could take it. It's right there. Oh, but this feels like a trap. This is definitely a feint and one that Ajax will regret if he doesn't handle it accordingly.

But a part of him wants to see Zhongli's trap unfold— watch this beautifully intelligent man weave his tangled web and then snatch victory right out of his clutches. He wants to watch the shock on Zhongli's face melt into something soft and proud as he tells Ajax how clever he is—

(Argh. When did his fantasies become like this??? He blames Zhongli. Yes, yes this is absolutely 100% Zhongli's fault—)

And Ajax takes the bishop with a flourish with one of his pawns. Let the dominoes fall where they will! ]

Of course I am! That's what you like about me.

I'm here to challenge you to play like you never had before. If you want something more traditional, then I'd just watch as you had a re-match against your memories.

[Eyes narrowing slightly as he watches Ajax take the bishop with a pawn, a move that was expected, Zhongli still manages to find this somewhat delightful. The playful banter between them is a game within a game. Ajax’s boldness, his willingness to step into a potential trap, with the same steadfastness that he'd harness to try and get out of it, adds some warmth to Zhongli's chest.

For the first time in some days, Zhongli's shoulders lower, relaxing.]

You’re not wrong, [Zhongli admits, a soft smile tugging at his lips.] While I do lean more often towards caution, there's something refreshing to your unrelenting boldness.

[He makes his next move with the same measured grace, a knight shifting into position with a clear intent to protect his remaining pieces while setting up the next stage of his strategy. His gaze never leaves Ajax's, the warmth in his eyes deepening.]

But don’t think I’ll go easy on you just because of that. I intend to make you earn every victory, no matter how small.

[ For a few moments, Ajax gets lost in the warmth of Zhongli's expression, fingers fidgeting with his pieces as he can feel his cheeks warm from the prolonged staring. It's almost when he almost rolls one piece right off the board that he catches himself with a (slightly embarrassed) laugh: ]

Oh, Mister Zhongli! I'd be insulted if you went easy on me. That means you don't think I'm a worthy opponent. And I'm here to prove that I am the most worthy! The most challenging opponent that you have ever faced.

[ Ajax immediately goes on the offensive. With the pawn having taken Zhongli's bishop, that leaves one of his own bishops free to dash across the board, an alluring target with just one catch— if Zhongli takes the bishop then one of Ajax's knights will take whatever piece delivers the finishing blow.

His face is lowered, studying the board with a furrowed brow as if he is trying to divine Zhongli's next move by sheer force alone. And then oh so casually as if he was asking about the weather: ]

You seem a little hmmm— tense today. Rough week at the office? Or maybe—

[ He looks up with a scandalous gasp. ]

You were nervous about our second date!

[His fingers hover over the board, considering the pieces as he contemplates his next move. A smile touches his lips as he senses Ajax’s intent—a trap for a trap.

He glances up at the teasing tone, meeting his eyes with a calm yet mischievous glint.]

I suppose one could say that. The past week has been... quite eventful.

[His voice is smooth, revealing nothing of the actual chaos that has unfolded, as he's well-practiced in maintaining calm, in keeping his true thoughts and feelings concealed behind a mask of serenity. But here, with Ajax, the mask feels less necessary, more like an old habit than a necessity. So he does allow fatigue to slip into his voice, with a sigh.

Zhongli leans back slightly, feigning contemplation, the smirk growing as he continues, his voice lowering just a touch, almost conspiratorially.] But maybe I was nervous. Anticipating this, perhaps. Why wouldn't I?

[ Ajax isn't sure what he was expecting Zhongli's answer to be. Maybe he had no expectations at all since the two of them were still dabbling at the edges of getting to know each other and feeling each other out in terms of push and pull. But the sigh is enough to motivate him into Ajax (actually did he really need any motivation at all) as he reaches his hand across the table, palm up in invitation. ]

Give me your hand.

I'll show you there is nothing to be nervous about.

[ The smile he provides in return is meant to be playful and reassuring even as he boasts: ]

Though I can understand why you might be! I'm quite the catch after all.

[The younger man's playful demeanor has a way of disarming him, chipping away at his carefully crafted composure. For a moment, Zhongli hesitates, his fingers stilling over the chessboard. But then, curiosity—and perhaps something more—compels him to reach across the table, his hand resting gently in Ajax’s open palm.

His smile softens, the tension of the past week momentarily easing in the face of his effortless charm.]

I see... [Zhongli murmurs, his tone warm, laced with amusement.] Quite the catch, indeed.

[The steady warmth of Ajax’s hand is grounding, makes this moment feel more real, more personal. It’s a connection he didn’t realize he needed, perhaps. Would often tell himself such. While coaxing others into relying on each other.

Ah, he's a hypocrite, is he?]

And here I was, thinking it was you who might be a little nervous. [His voice is teasing now, his golden eyes glinting, even if with an underlying sincerity in his gaze.]

[ A faux affronted gasp: ]

Me? Nervous? About what? That I might do something embarrassing in front of this mysterious handsome and intelligent person who I am trying so very hard to impress. Haha, nothing to be nervous about at all!

[ Ajax clasps Zhongli's hand in both of his, turning it to also face palm up as he hunches over across the chess board to peer down at it with a thoughtful hum. ]

But let's see— let's see—

[ He trails a finger across the length of Zhongli's open palm. ]

Oh look here. A strong long life line. That's good!

[ If Zhongli knows anything about palm reading (or even anything about Ajax), that isn't where the lifeline is supposed to be, but it's also the longest line on Zhongli's palm. So for Ajax's intents and purposes, it might as well be as his finger moves to skim over an adjacent line. ]

And the second longest one— oh, that's your work line. It's pretty consistently deep. Are you sure you don't need a vacation? Or maybe a little relaxation.

[ Ajax tilts his head up just enough to give a salacious wink before turning his attention back to Zhongli's palm. ]

Hmmm. And now where is it? Where is it... Ah!

[ His smile widens, a telltale sign that he is teasing. ]

Your love line. It starts late, but looks to be unbroken after that. Lucky you!

[Zhongli's golden eyes gleam with amusement as Ajax traces lines across his palm, the warmth of his touch bringing an unexpected comfort. Though he knows the true lines of palm reading from countless encounters with fortune-tellers within the underworld, who often used the craft as a cover for their operations, he finds himself captivated by the way Ajax weaves his own playful interpretation, with 'ah's and 'ooh's and thoughtful nods.

His eyebrows arch in surprise at the mention of the "work line", causing him to chuckle softly.] A vacation? [He hums thoughtfully, leaning in slightly as his smile widens.] Perhaps I do need it. Do you have any suggestions?

[Zhongli lowers his voice, his smile becoming a touch more flirtatious.] Starting late… quite curious. Does the line say if I should wait longer or if it's already started?

[ Ajax almost almost drops Zhongli hand as his instinct is to put his own hand to his face to hide the red flush that certainly is creeping across his cheeks and up his ears. Oh, casual Zhongli was already enough to make the butterflies in his stomach flutter about to distraction. So flirtatious Zhongli was like unleashing a tornado. How was anyone allowed to be that handsome and have a voice that drop kicked his mind straight in the gutter?

(How was this man still even on the market?)

Ajax clears his throat, thumb now tracing along one of those lines along his palm absently. ]

Mister Zhongli~ I can't give away all my secrets or the mysteries of the universe all in one go. That would be irresponsible.

But worry not. I can answer both of those questions for the low low price of a third date. How does that sound?

[The sight of Ajax's flushed cheeks and the sudden shift in his demeanor is akin to witnessing amber catching the last rays of sunset in Zhongli’s chest. There's something undeniably charming about Ajax's transparency—the way his emotions play so freely on his face. It’s disarming, and though he’s well-versed in the art of calculated conversation, the sincerity pulls him in further, making him want to continue. So he hums softly, the amusement never leaving his eyes as Ajax traces absent patterns on his palm. He leans in just a touch closer, though they do have a table between them.]

A third date, you say? [He tilts his head as he studies the younger man.] I have a feeling that time spent with you should be very highly valued, but it's one price I'm very willing to meet.

I must admit, though, I’m rather intrigued by these secrets of yours. [He smiles, his tone soft but laced with curiosity.] I look forward to unravelling them.

[His free hand moves to rest on top of Ajax's, a not-so subtle gesture of reciprocation, but one that he is at ease with doing. No masks, no walls—just two people, enjoying each other's company.]

But for now, [he continues, the playfulness returning as he glances back at the chessboard, though he hasn't let go of Ajax's hand. Perhaps this was exactly what he needed after this hellish week?] I believe it's still your move, isn’t it?

[ Greedy greedy Ajax moves to lace their fingers together as soon as Zhongli's hand lies atop of his. Looks like that belongs to him for the rest of the match. ]

Mr. Zhongli~

[ He drawls out the name in a petulant whine. ]

How am I supposed to concentrate on the game when I just want to kiss you? Flirty Mr. Zhongli is so handsome. Wait—! No! That means that I'm the loser. Ugh.

[ He swiftly moves one of his pieces across the board without looking. From a cursory glance, it looks like a hasty unthought move but for someone as calculating as Zhongli, he should recognize it as a very strategic push into enemy territory among numerous of Ajax's pieces. One that will leave the match finished in a handful of rounds (by way of knighting one of Ajax's pawns) if the threat proceeds according to plan. ]

[A whirlwind of playful need mixed with competitive spirit, the two collide in a way that sends a ripple of amusement through him. The younger man's open expression, unfiltered desires, the way he communicates so plainly with no hesitation or coyness; all bring about a certain kind of whiplash that Zhongli is still getting used to.

Zhongli watches as Ajax moves his piece across the board without a second glance, the action seemingly rushed, hasty—but upon further inspection, it's clear that it's part of a well-calculated plan. He takes in the positioning, the strategy behind it, and the subtle brilliance that shines through the playful exterior.

How interesting.

Zhongli's golden eyes flicker with intrigue. He makes his next move, a more defensive one, aligning his pieces in a way that invites Ajax’s advance—come catch me, his position seems to say.]

Well, then, I can't help but wonder... should we continue this game?

[His hand remains intertwined with Ajax’s, his thumb tracing slow, thoughtful circles along the younger man's skin, his gaze lowering to count the freckles on his cheeks, on his nose, and then the line of his lips.] After all, it’s only a game. And it seems to me that our wills are already quite evenly tied.

[ Ajax's eyes dim two shades darker at the question, something within him roiling at the mention of quitting. Forfeiture was a loss in his book, and Tartaglia had not backed down from anything in his life. Not even when he was a scrawny nobody brought in kicking and biting to the Tsaritsa's chambers upon their first meeting. ]

Only a game?

[ Red creeps along Ajax's cheeks at Zhongli's wandering gaze (for who resist the charm of this man), his own eyes tracking the slow repetitive motion of Zhongli's thumb pressed against his skin. He blinks slowly— once, twice — before lifting his other hand to advance another piece across the board. It's almost violent in its aggressiveness, but aimed pure and true like a knife thudding a bullseye.

Lead the way, Ajax seems to reply even as he knows there is a trap lying in wait. Or perhaps because he knows there is a trap, but the prize is worth that risk.

Ajax runs his tongue along the back of his teeth as if that could unstick the words he means to say. ]

Mister Zhongli~ Mama didn't raise a quitter, especially with a wager on the line. And I know you see my strategy. You know it's an all or nothing gamble that I win in two turns or lose it all.

So I really just have to know—

If you can stop me when you see it coming. You'll indulge me in that, won't you? To see who wins this battle of wills.

[Oh, there's something in him, something that resonates with an unyielding spirit, like a warrior’s refusal to back down.

Zhongli watches the aggressive move Ajax makes, the piece slamming into position with the force of someone determined to seize victory no matter the cost. A victory, or nothing at all. There's no mistaking the precision behind the move, the calculated risk, and the thrill of the chase that Ajax seems to thrive on. And yet, even in the face of that, Zhongli can't help but smile.

How fascinating.

His golden eyes flick up, meeting Ajax's darkened gaze, the younger man's intensity met with an unshakable calm. To think that a mere toy salesman would be this intense; is it because his work and his life provide him with little instances to truly let loose? Or…]

Ah, but quitting wasn’t what I had in mind. [His thumb continues its slow, deliberate circles on Ajax's skin, the touch grounding them both amidst the rising tension.] Merely a negotiation. I suppose we could call it a contract.

[He tips his head an increment, like he's considering something to be honored, one ritual to better demonstrate one's respect.] I won't deny you the thrill of this battle of wills. But I do wonder—what will that mean for you if I stop you?

[He is still teasing, laying out a test of sorts.]

Is it truly a loss, if you win something you wish for regardless?

[ Ajax tilts his head in the opposite direction, mirroring Zhongli as he rests his chin against his palm. His fingers curl tighter around Zhongli where he can, part restless and part to latch onto this enchanting individual. ]

It can't be a true loss, because it's you, Mister Zhongli. Even if there is no prize at the end except for the joy that blooms across your face at an enjoyable match, it's still worthwhile to me.

[ But then he laughs, eyes crinkling as they lose some of their intensity. ]

Though I must admit I wanted to create a win/win situation for the both of us no matter the outcome. That's just good manners when you're getting to know someone.

But if you want to suggest a negotiation—

[ His gaze lowers to their joined hands and then up to Zhongli's lips, an internal conflict on how bold he could or should be. Or perhaps fantasizing about a prize that he's not sure he wants to jeopardize.

But given a new potentially more thrilling option, there is really only one path for him to take. ]

I'm listening.

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