[Rufus is taken off-guard for a moment, too quickly to be able to hide his expression of surprise at Tseng's words.
Countless people had told him how sorry they were for his loss when his mother had died but it was a distant, feigned, polite recitation with no real genuine emotion behind the words. When someone remarked how Rufus was like his mother it was to compare the color of their eyes and the shade of blonde hair since they had no idea of who she really was.
Rufus takes a drink from his glass to take a moment to compose himself once more but he can't stop from smiling a little despite himself.]
Thank you, Tseng. I think you're the first person to say that and really mean it even a little bit.
[He looks at him thoughtfully, considering his words for a moment. He knows his father wants to make sure Rufus isn't a threat while also making sure he can inherit the company, always dangling it over his head to keep him trying for more.]
Perhaps, he does love to go out of his way to remind me of all the things I lack. He's been calling me simpleminded since I was very young to make sure I remember I know I won't ever be enough. And then I remind him that my mother considered him a shiveling worm and we have a warm family bonding time over those memories.
[It's said in an obviously fake tone of fondness before he chuckles.]
If there is anything I am certain of, it's that you are not simple-minded.
( and in a way it's comical--how could his father be so pointedly wrong about him? he's never really considered the great president shinra a genius, of course, but he had attributed at least some measure of intelligence to him. after all, he had managed to build up this great company without too much trouble, amassed a great fortune, power, and some level of respect, though hardly worthy of it; yet he seemed to have such a blind spot when it came to his heir.
there's a conscious tilt of his glass, as though measuring the liquid in it. he handles it quite well, typically, but they've already had quite a bit to drink, and there is a softened edge to the room, at the moment, as though just slightly blurred around the edges. high quality liquor, of course, means a more high quality trip, perhaps. he wets his lips. )
I believe you need to offer me a question first, sir. ( this is definitely said with a measure of teasing--not that he would mind pledging to do one or the other beforehand, as though in a show of bravery. ) Are you feeling alright?
( amused as he is, his lips barely twitch, just hinting at a smile. ) At your liquor limit already?
[Rufus had never allowed himself to get this tipsy or drunk before, he didn't like the idea of losing control but the world was a little more off-center than it normally was, he felt warm and languid as he leaned back a little on the bed.]
Definitely not, I'm not going to be the first to bow out this time. [At least, not willingly. He smiles at Tseng as he lowers his glass, looking at the Turk directly.]
My question is- what is your life like off the clock? Do you wear anything except suits? And before you say your life is your work, there have been times I asked about you and Veld said you were gone and off-duty. So, tell me a little about your life outside the Shinra building.
[Rufus can't imagine Tseng wearing anything remotely casual. He also had no concept of what life was like outside the building- Veld and his father never allowed him to venture out except to official Shinra events.
Being kidnapped and navigating through Junon was the only real glimpse he had into the outside world up close. Despite the circumstances, it was an experience that he would never forget since he knew he would never be allowed to do anything like go to a diner and drive ever again.]
( the declaration means, of course, that he's going to have to start paying a little more attention to rufus' glass.
it isn't as though he has a lack of faith in him, but more that he doesn't think it would look good for his position if he were to allow the great heir to get so drunk he starts slurring words together or, even worse, ends up sick on his expensive bathroom floor. not only would he get a stern scolding and disapproval from veld, but more importantly, it would mean he would have to be the one to take care of rufus, and all of that is just asking for more trouble than he wants.
the question, however, is a surprise--and, horrifyingly, he finds himself laughing before he can stop himself. it's just one soft bark of a laugh, quiet, but even so, it's too much; annoyed with himself, he purses his lips together and squares his shoulders. )
It sounds a bit as though you're stalking me, sir.
( a small flash of his golden gaze, curious, to rufus, before he lets his attention wander to the window instead. )
...Truthfully, I don't do much. There isn't much time, given the nature of my job. I enjoy reading novels and cooking, on occasion, and I enjoy having a good drink at a decent bar. As for my clothing...
( a wry quirk of his lips--as he brings his glass up to them, pointedly swallowing down the liquor. )
[Rufus groans in disappointment as Tseng takes a drink, unable to help himself from pouting a little. But he's still pleased that he got what seemed like a genuine laugh out of Tseng anyway despite the Turk's annoyance at letting it slip out.
Rufus follows Tseng's gaze to the window for a moment, at the green-tinged night sky. He's not sure how late it is or how early in the morning, it can be difficult to tell with the smog that rises above Midgar on some days.]
Now I'm just going to have to imagine you wearing your suit all the time outside of the building. Cooking, reading, in the shower, while sleeping. I take it there's no girlfriend to take the suit off for?
[He's heard Reno and Rude discussing their personal lives, the dates they went on, and the such when they thought he wasn't listening in before but he couldn't imagine Tseng being willing to let his guard down for anyone even outside of work or give up any control.
Rufus looks at the liquid in his glass before looking back at Tseng.]
Not that I'm jealous or anything, darling. [He can't resist teasing a little. He's still rather proud of himself for that little charade and how well he was able to pull it off in the spur of the moment.]
( his lips purse together, almost like he's going to scold rufus for the term of endearment--but he decides against it, knowing that it would only mean drawing more attention to it to begin with. there's an errant hope, at least, that they won't ever have to succumb to such tactics in the future; no matter how good rufus is at pretending, he imagines that anyone stupid enough to be seen on the arm of the shinra heir is likely a target themselves, all the same.
so he takes another mouthful from his glass--and, seeing it nearly empty, swallows the last of it down with another quick tip back. )
You sound jealous. ( this is said in a gentle, almost slurred tone, thick with amusement. ) But no matter. There's quite literally nothing to be jealous of.
( it's alarming, the way his head swims a little as he bends to swipe up the decanter, eyeing its contents. rufus could likely have one more glass, and he could have another two, but it's already getting late, and it's likely better for him to not go any further. )
No girlfriend. I do take it off to shower, however. ( with his empty glass in one hand, and the decanter between his thighs, he nods to rufus. ) Finish that. You should have been asleep an hour ago.
Hmm I suppose you're right. [It was late and Rufus had to be at least conscious and not appear hungover at the morning board meeting to avoid getting in trouble with his father.
He downs the rest of his glass before holding it out to Tseng with a smile.]
That's good, I'm not fond of sharing. And don't worry, I'm, not jealous. I know there is no one better than me. [Rufus laughs, his words slightly slurred as he tries to pull his robe off after handing the glass. It's more of a struggle than he expected and he decides just to let it fall to the floor before he lies down.
Even lying down on the bed the room seems to be moving around him so he decides not to try to get up. The last thing he wants is to fall over and embarrass himself. For a long moment, Rufus looks up at the ceiling, listening to Tseng moving around the room.
He doesn't speak until he hears the sound of the door being opened, forcing his eyes to remain open for at least a little longer.]
( there's some relief, when he retrieves the glass from rufus--at least it means that the shinra heir isn't able to drop it. with both glasses and the decanter in hand, he makes to stand up, but the room swims a little, and it takes one long moment to steady himself. the last thing he wants to do is drop things himself: he would never hear the end of it from rufus.
clearing his throat, he moves away from the end of the bed, seeking one of the many beautiful end tables in the room to safely deposit the liquor and the glasses; when he turns around, rufus has managed to struggle out of his robe. he considers going to help him, but there's something almost cute about seeing him settle there on the mattress like he can't quite move an inch.
with a small, private smile, tseng moves towards the door, taking the knob to twist it.
rufus interrupts him. ) ...Yes, sir.
( turning on his heels, he glances over at rufus, brows lifted in curiosity. )
[Rufus is quiet for a moment as he thinks about how he wants to ask without it sounding pathetic but there is no way other than being direct.]
I know we haven't known each other long, maybe I won't remember this in the morning but I want to know what you really think of me, Tseng.
[He doesn't try to sit up to see Tseng's expression, not sure he could manage it without falling over at this point between the effects of the booze and exhaustion.
He never asked anyone else about what they thought of him, it didn't matter since he already knew what people said behind his back. They called him useless, spoiled, a brat who was the disappointment of his father. They compared him to Lazard, his bastard half-brother, who was competent and ambitious.]
I know how others talk about me behind my back so don't worry about offending me, I've heard almost everything at this point.
[He knew the first time they met Tseng wasn't thrilled about being stuck with Rufus during the rescue operation but he also didn't seem the type to allow himself the swayed by what was said about Rufus behind his back by others.]
( it's a peculiar request, and one that gives him pause, for a moment: his fingers curl around the door knob, but he doesn't release it, doesn't flee from the room as though he's afraid of answering. it's peculiar for one because rufus doesn't care what others think of him--at least, so goes the rumors, though he's seen a bit of it for himself. for another, why would it matter what he thought of him? of all people, the turks are the ones required to protect and aid the shinra family without complaint--it shouldn't matter what he thinks, given that he'll have to do his job regardless.
so then what is it? why is rufus so serious about it, so curious?
with a short breath through his nose, he wets his lips. rufus isn't looking for platitudes, or insincere compliments; he's looking for honesty, whatever that may look like now, no matter how tainted with liquor it is. sighing, he settles himself more comfortably in the doorway. )
I think you're complex. I think that you absolutely have an ego, one that's almost insatiable, and you're from a rich family, so you have no idea the sort of turmoil that other people live in these days.
But you aren't particularly unkind, at least not in a way that's cruel for no reason. You're intelligent, calculating, shrewd...And you've endured things that weaker people wouldn't have been able to.
( it feels--alarming, the way the words are coming out so smoothly; such is the effect of the alcohol. )
You're incredibly good looking. Much like a prince. The white suits you.
( and that's saying far too much; his tongue feels thick, when it goes over his mouth again. ) Is that enough, sir?
[Rufus can't help but laugh softly at the last statement, he knows that Tseng would have normally never allowed himself to say that but he's glad he got that bit out of him.]
Thank you, Tseng. I really hope I remember that in the morning.
[Even as drunk as he was Rufus knew that what Tseng told him was the genuine truth. He was very familiar with empty flattery that he often heard from others trying to get something out of him or just trying to endear themselves to the heir so they would get something after the president died.
He knew that Tseng wouldn't give him that empty flattery, wouldn't just tell Rufus what he wanted to hear, and for that, he is grateful since he can't remember the last time someone was honest with him with no real agenda.]
That's enough for now but I have one more request.
[He tries to move to sit up slightly but he feels the world around him spin, getting up is not going to be the best idea. He's already dreading the potential hangover in the morning.]
Could you grab my comforter? Since you were honest with me I will be honest with you- I would probably fall on my ass if I tried to get up right now.
( there's the risk of a smile, etched on his features, but his teeth nip at the inside of his cheek, refusing to let it blossom--he covers it up with a soft sigh. )
Of course, sir. Make yourself a little more comfortable, if you can.
( there's a part of him that's grateful: he knows that no matter how rufus may feel in the morning, there likely won't be word of his own indiscretions; some things are better kept as secrets, and he doesn't think that rufus wants to risk either of their positions by telling everyone how much liquor they shared in a night. it means that no matter how terrible the hangover, they'll likely both be safe.
he still has a duty to attend to, and focusing on it makes his movements come a little easier. the room swims, slightly, but only so much in that it delays his ability--approaching the bed, he manages to at least free the comforter and shake it out, slightly, bringing it up until it drapes like a comfortable shadow across rufus' body. with a click of his tongue, he even goes so far as to adjust the pillows, slightly, trying to make for a more cozy position for rufus to sleep in.
satisfied, he draws back, smoothing out his suit before he gives a short nod of his chin. )
Don't hesitate to let me know if you end up needing anything else, sir. I'll be outside the room until the shift change.
[Even in a haze Rufus notices that Tseng doesn't just drape the comforter over him but also adjusts his pillows, that little gesture that he doesn't know what to make of tonight.
He's glad that Tseng can't see his smile in the darkness as Tseng heads to the door, sinking into the pillows comfortably with a yawn. He's asleep before Tseng closes the door as he leaves the room.
It only seems like a moment had passed from when he closed his eyes until the blaring sound of his morning alarm goes off, the sound like a hammer to his head.
It takes him a moment to fumble around to turn off the alarm, things slowly coming back to him as he pulls himself up. There is no sign that Tseng had been there last night
The sound is like a hammer to the head but he still manages to pull himself out of bed, taking a moment to try to piece together what happened last night. As the pieces come together he smirks as he picks up his phone, not pausing to think if Tseng is getting some sleep now that he's off duty.]
( there's very little sleep to be had, after he leaves rufus' suite at the shift change; by that time, it's nearly dawn, and rather than pull an all-nighter, he decides to tuck in for a brief cat nap in the office. gratefully, it's a day that reno has off so there's nothing particularly noisy to stab at him, and peacefully, he enjoys the few hours of rest he can before swinging by the showers to clean up and change.
once he's tidied up, it's back to the office for a well-needed cup of coffee. blowing off the top of it, gently, he feels the phone vibrating in his pocket and draws it out, squinting faintly at the contact--and then at the time, surprised. then again, rufus had mentioned something about needing to get up earlier than usual, so perhaps it isn't too shocking.
his lips pulled into a wry grimace, playful, he brings the coffee to his lips for one small swallow. still hot. )
By that you mean you have no memory of it?
( he remembers most of it. the liquor had hit hard, but somehow, he always feels a little more awake after a night of drinking. rufus may have been hit with a bit more of a hangover than he had been. )
[As soon as Rufus pulled himself out of bed he realizes he was too confident in how steady he was feeling. There is a delay in responding to Tseng as he manages to get to the bathroom. He hopes that a few swigs of mouthwash will be enough to cover any smell since there is no time to do anything else as he glances at the time on his phone.
But in the middle of changing clothes, nearly falling over in the most undignified manner with a oof, he still takes a moment to send Tseng a text with a grin.]
I definitely remember you calling me a prince.
[A lot of the night is pieces that he has to put together, he's not sure if that really happened or if it was just something that he had imagined. He's not sure how much Tseng remembers either so he's not sure how Tseng will respond.]
Don't worry, you don't have to call me highness, that may get awkward.
[He has to steady himself again so he didn't have to run back to the bathroom, feeling bile in the back of his throat but he has to pretend to look fine at least for a few hours, ignoring the queasiness and headache that makes the lights feel more intense.]
( immediately, his eyes narrow at the screen--it's a relief that they're not face to face, since he can't say that he would be able to control his expression quite so easily against such a statement; another message pops up, even more infuriating than the last, and he clicks his screen to lock it.
he considers his response, over another long pull of hot coffee, and decides that it would be worst if he ignored rufus' messages entirely--then he would know that it's affecting him.
begrudgingly, he unlocks his phone again. )
Is that so? Perhaps I prefer it. Better to show my respect.
How are you feeling this morning, your highness?
( smug, he takes another sip of coffee. )
I would suggest you eat something before your meeting. That is what you have to do this morning, is it not?
[Rufus can't help but let out a laugh at Tseng's text. The thought of eating something wasn't that appealing but breakfast had been left for him when he came out of his bedroom so he figured he might as well try to take Tseng's advice to eat something.]
I feel perfectly fine, don't worry, darling.
[He's not going to give Tseng the satisfaction of telling him that he felt so bad.
And he's definitely not going to admit that he'll try to eat something because of Tseng's advice, opting for a piece of toast to try to settle his stomach.]
I do, it's going to be exciting. What about you? What are your plans for the day?
[He doesn't care about being nosey, if he's going to be stuck in a board meeting all morning and then pretend to do important things during the day while actually doing pointless busy work during the day then he wants to hear what Tseng gets to do outside the Shinra Building.
He reaches down to scratch between Dark Nation's ears idly as he abandons a half-eaten piece of toast, the last thing he needed was to throw up during the board meeting.]
( in most cases, it's better not to acknowledge rufus' words: better not to let him know that they've affected him at all. correcting the use of that pet name again would surely be telling, so he tries to ignore it.
instead, he wars with the thought of whether to be honest, or not--it doesn't much matter, given that rufus could very easily ask veld or anyone else in the department for his schedule for the day. )
Paperwork, to start. It may be a bit of a light day, given that I was on guard duty last night.
( --which, of course, rufus knows very well. )
What's the topic of your exciting meeting, your Highness? Anything I should know about?
[Rufus can't help but smile as he imagines Tseng's reaction to the pet name even if Tseng doesn't react over text. He likes to assume that he got a reaction and chuckles to himself as he reads the texts.
He was still feeling hungover but at least now he had a little distraction.]
Budget propsoals. The quarterly ritual of humiliation as everyone puts together their department budgets to grovel and pretend that Hojo and Scarlet aren't going to get most of the money.
[He lets Dark Nation finish his toast along with the bacon that came with his breakfast, kissing her on the top of her head before rushing to get dressed.]
At least last night's guard duty was uneventual so I'm sure you will have an easy time with that report.
( after all, he had learned a great deal about rufus otherwise; yet out of respect for both his own job and rufus' reputation, he definitely will not be including any of it for anyone to read.
like always, he keeps those things in memory only. )
Do let me know if you encounter any difficulties in your day, sir. And keep the coffee to a minimum, or at least balance it with water.
[Rufus pauses to read Tseng's messages as he gets dressed, trying to make himself look passably presentable before grabbing the leather folio with his copies of the paperwork for the meeting.
He can't help but smile at the last bit, glad that Tseng isn't able to see him now.] If I encounter any difficulties will you come personally to help me?
[He knows Tseng isn't on duty today but part of him selfishly wants to take Tseng up on that offer if today is yet another day that leaves him frustrated and angry from having to deal with his father.]
( this is what he wanted, isn't it? there are benefits to being trusted by the son of shinra, benefits that could help him, or even the turks as a whole, in the long run; is this why veld seems to have little problem with them interacting together? he might not be particularly fond of rufus, but he has to keep this going for the sake of his future.
maybe. or maybe he's finding it harder and harder to dislike him, in the end. he brushes that thought aside.
instead, there's a low, soft breath--shaking his head, he continues: )
If it's after my afternoon nap.
( a bit of humor? from him? stranger things have happened. )
You would have a more comfortable afternoon nap in my rooms.
[And before it crosses his mind that maybe he shouldn't cross this line he hits send. He's not sure what he's opening the door to, especially with someone who was probably manipulating him on Veld's orders.
It was a bad idea but the text was sent, there is no undoing it even if he wants to.
Rufus barely registers anyone around him as he takes his seat at the boardroom table, not even Hojo sitting by him distracts him as he waits for Tseng's response. But before there is any response his father clears his throat, giving Rufus a pointed look as the meeting starts.
It's hard to focus through the meeting, especially when he hears the soft vibrating of a received message. He knows his father notices he's distracted and barely focused, he doesn't have to look at him to see that.
It's not until after a long meeting that is pretty much a blur and another fight with his father about how Rufus was a disappointing heir, not worthy to take the throne, so to speak.
When he gets to his office he finally takes out his phone, placing it face down on the desk for a moment. He's not sure what answer he's going to get but finally, he turns his phone over.]
( what a precocious thing to say--and a terrible thing, at that.
it's precisely the sort of thing he would expect from rufus, in the end, which is why it nearly makes him laugh: luckily, he's still alone, without anyone to witness the once in a lifetime act. he lingers on it for a long time, considering what to say, how it might be best to react. he knows his gut reaction all too well: which is a little terrifying, when it comes down to it.
still, there's nothing too dangerous at risk here. not yet, anyway.
pursing his lips, he sends a reply: )
Not if you aren't there to accompany me.
( with some surprise, he doesn't get a message back. it hangs there, pending, and after a few minutes, he resolves not to check his phone again. stuffing it into his pocket, he goes about the day in a caffeinated haze, tending to only a small, short nap before finishing up the paperwork for the day.
veld doesn't seem to take any issue with him, or his usual reticence; the day passes by relatively quickly, in the end, bleeding into late afternoon, and he's almost at a loss for what to do with himself. a rare evening free is bewildering--especially with no answer from rufus. )
[Rufus tries to shuffle papers around to at least make an attempt to be busy- he hears his phone vibrate but he knows it would be a terrible idea to give in so easily, especially letting Tseng in. He is certain that Veld's motives are to use Tseng to control Rufus, it would make sense.
But even with that suspicion he finally turns his phone over to look at Tseng's message. He doesn't care about the risk now as he sends his response.]
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no subject
Date: 2023-01-04 09:09 am (UTC)Countless people had told him how sorry they were for his loss when his mother had died but it was a distant, feigned, polite recitation with no real genuine emotion behind the words. When someone remarked how Rufus was like his mother it was to compare the color of their eyes and the shade of blonde hair since they had no idea of who she really was.
Rufus takes a drink from his glass to take a moment to compose himself once more but he can't stop from smiling a little despite himself.]
Thank you, Tseng. I think you're the first person to say that and really mean it even a little bit.
[He looks at him thoughtfully, considering his words for a moment. He knows his father wants to make sure Rufus isn't a threat while also making sure he can inherit the company, always dangling it over his head to keep him trying for more.]
Perhaps, he does love to go out of his way to remind me of all the things I lack. He's been calling me simpleminded since I was very young to make sure I remember I know I won't ever be enough. And then I remind him that my mother considered him a shiveling worm and we have a warm family bonding time over those memories.
[It's said in an obviously fake tone of fondness before he chuckles.]
Now, it's my turn. Truth or drink?
no subject
Date: 2023-01-16 01:43 am (UTC)( and in a way it's comical--how could his father be so pointedly wrong about him? he's never really considered the great president shinra a genius, of course, but he had attributed at least some measure of intelligence to him. after all, he had managed to build up this great company without too much trouble, amassed a great fortune, power, and some level of respect, though hardly worthy of it; yet he seemed to have such a blind spot when it came to his heir.
there's a conscious tilt of his glass, as though measuring the liquid in it. he handles it quite well, typically, but they've already had quite a bit to drink, and there is a softened edge to the room, at the moment, as though just slightly blurred around the edges. high quality liquor, of course, means a more high quality trip, perhaps. he wets his lips. )
I believe you need to offer me a question first, sir. ( this is definitely said with a measure of teasing--not that he would mind pledging to do one or the other beforehand, as though in a show of bravery. ) Are you feeling alright?
( amused as he is, his lips barely twitch, just hinting at a smile. ) At your liquor limit already?
no subject
Date: 2023-01-16 05:34 am (UTC)[Rufus had never allowed himself to get this tipsy or drunk before, he didn't like the idea of losing control but the world was a little more off-center than it normally was, he felt warm and languid as he leaned back a little on the bed.]
Definitely not, I'm not going to be the first to bow out this time. [At least, not willingly. He smiles at Tseng as he lowers his glass, looking at the Turk directly.]
My question is- what is your life like off the clock? Do you wear anything except suits? And before you say your life is your work, there have been times I asked about you and Veld said you were gone and off-duty. So, tell me a little about your life outside the Shinra building.
[Rufus can't imagine Tseng wearing anything remotely casual. He also had no concept of what life was like outside the building- Veld and his father never allowed him to venture out except to official Shinra events.
Being kidnapped and navigating through Junon was the only real glimpse he had into the outside world up close. Despite the circumstances, it was an experience that he would never forget since he knew he would never be allowed to do anything like go to a diner and drive ever again.]
no subject
Date: 2023-01-18 02:09 am (UTC)it isn't as though he has a lack of faith in him, but more that he doesn't think it would look good for his position if he were to allow the great heir to get so drunk he starts slurring words together or, even worse, ends up sick on his expensive bathroom floor. not only would he get a stern scolding and disapproval from veld, but more importantly, it would mean he would have to be the one to take care of rufus, and all of that is just asking for more trouble than he wants.
the question, however, is a surprise--and, horrifyingly, he finds himself laughing before he can stop himself. it's just one soft bark of a laugh, quiet, but even so, it's too much; annoyed with himself, he purses his lips together and squares his shoulders. )
It sounds a bit as though you're stalking me, sir.
( a small flash of his golden gaze, curious, to rufus, before he lets his attention wander to the window instead. )
...Truthfully, I don't do much. There isn't much time, given the nature of my job. I enjoy reading novels and cooking, on occasion, and I enjoy having a good drink at a decent bar. As for my clothing...
( a wry quirk of his lips--as he brings his glass up to them, pointedly swallowing down the liquor. )
no subject
Date: 2023-01-19 05:58 am (UTC)Rufus follows Tseng's gaze to the window for a moment, at the green-tinged night sky. He's not sure how late it is or how early in the morning, it can be difficult to tell with the smog that rises above Midgar on some days.]
Now I'm just going to have to imagine you wearing your suit all the time outside of the building. Cooking, reading, in the shower, while sleeping. I take it there's no girlfriend to take the suit off for?
[He's heard Reno and Rude discussing their personal lives, the dates they went on, and the such when they thought he wasn't listening in before but he couldn't imagine Tseng being willing to let his guard down for anyone even outside of work or give up any control.
Rufus looks at the liquid in his glass before looking back at Tseng.]
Not that I'm jealous or anything, darling. [He can't resist teasing a little. He's still rather proud of himself for that little charade and how well he was able to pull it off in the spur of the moment.]
no subject
Date: 2023-01-25 02:23 am (UTC)so he takes another mouthful from his glass--and, seeing it nearly empty, swallows the last of it down with another quick tip back. )
You sound jealous. ( this is said in a gentle, almost slurred tone, thick with amusement. ) But no matter. There's quite literally nothing to be jealous of.
( it's alarming, the way his head swims a little as he bends to swipe up the decanter, eyeing its contents. rufus could likely have one more glass, and he could have another two, but it's already getting late, and it's likely better for him to not go any further. )
No girlfriend. I do take it off to shower, however. ( with his empty glass in one hand, and the decanter between his thighs, he nods to rufus. ) Finish that. You should have been asleep an hour ago.
no subject
Date: 2023-02-04 08:27 pm (UTC)He downs the rest of his glass before holding it out to Tseng with a smile.]
That's good, I'm not fond of sharing. And don't worry, I'm, not jealous. I know there is no one better than me. [Rufus laughs, his words slightly slurred as he tries to pull his robe off after handing the glass. It's more of a struggle than he expected and he decides just to let it fall to the floor before he lies down.
Even lying down on the bed the room seems to be moving around him so he decides not to try to get up. The last thing he wants is to fall over and embarrass himself. For a long moment, Rufus looks up at the ceiling, listening to Tseng moving around the room.
He doesn't speak until he hears the sound of the door being opened, forcing his eyes to remain open for at least a little longer.]
Tseng. I have one last question for you.
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Date: 2023-02-08 02:42 am (UTC)clearing his throat, he moves away from the end of the bed, seeking one of the many beautiful end tables in the room to safely deposit the liquor and the glasses; when he turns around, rufus has managed to struggle out of his robe. he considers going to help him, but there's something almost cute about seeing him settle there on the mattress like he can't quite move an inch.
with a small, private smile, tseng moves towards the door, taking the knob to twist it.
rufus interrupts him. ) ...Yes, sir.
( turning on his heels, he glances over at rufus, brows lifted in curiosity. )
What is it?
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Date: 2023-02-12 02:51 am (UTC)I know we haven't known each other long, maybe I won't remember this in the morning but I want to know what you really think of me, Tseng.
[He doesn't try to sit up to see Tseng's expression, not sure he could manage it without falling over at this point between the effects of the booze and exhaustion.
He never asked anyone else about what they thought of him, it didn't matter since he already knew what people said behind his back. They called him useless, spoiled, a brat who was the disappointment of his father. They compared him to Lazard, his bastard half-brother, who was competent and ambitious.]
I know how others talk about me behind my back so don't worry about offending me, I've heard almost everything at this point.
[He knew the first time they met Tseng wasn't thrilled about being stuck with Rufus during the rescue operation but he also didn't seem the type to allow himself the swayed by what was said about Rufus behind his back by others.]
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Date: 2023-02-15 02:09 am (UTC)so then what is it? why is rufus so serious about it, so curious?
with a short breath through his nose, he wets his lips. rufus isn't looking for platitudes, or insincere compliments; he's looking for honesty, whatever that may look like now, no matter how tainted with liquor it is. sighing, he settles himself more comfortably in the doorway. )
I think you're complex. I think that you absolutely have an ego, one that's almost insatiable, and you're from a rich family, so you have no idea the sort of turmoil that other people live in these days.
But you aren't particularly unkind, at least not in a way that's cruel for no reason. You're intelligent, calculating, shrewd...And you've endured things that weaker people wouldn't have been able to.
( it feels--alarming, the way the words are coming out so smoothly; such is the effect of the alcohol. )
You're incredibly good looking. Much like a prince. The white suits you.
( and that's saying far too much; his tongue feels thick, when it goes over his mouth again. ) Is that enough, sir?
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Date: 2023-02-15 06:54 am (UTC)Thank you, Tseng. I really hope I remember that in the morning.
[Even as drunk as he was Rufus knew that what Tseng told him was the genuine truth. He was very familiar with empty flattery that he often heard from others trying to get something out of him or just trying to endear themselves to the heir so they would get something after the president died.
He knew that Tseng wouldn't give him that empty flattery, wouldn't just tell Rufus what he wanted to hear, and for that, he is grateful since he can't remember the last time someone was honest with him with no real agenda.]
That's enough for now but I have one more request.
[He tries to move to sit up slightly but he feels the world around him spin, getting up is not going to be the best idea. He's already dreading the potential hangover in the morning.]
Could you grab my comforter? Since you were honest with me I will be honest with you- I would probably fall on my ass if I tried to get up right now.
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Date: 2023-02-22 02:18 am (UTC)Of course, sir. Make yourself a little more comfortable, if you can.
( there's a part of him that's grateful: he knows that no matter how rufus may feel in the morning, there likely won't be word of his own indiscretions; some things are better kept as secrets, and he doesn't think that rufus wants to risk either of their positions by telling everyone how much liquor they shared in a night. it means that no matter how terrible the hangover, they'll likely both be safe.
he still has a duty to attend to, and focusing on it makes his movements come a little easier. the room swims, slightly, but only so much in that it delays his ability--approaching the bed, he manages to at least free the comforter and shake it out, slightly, bringing it up until it drapes like a comfortable shadow across rufus' body. with a click of his tongue, he even goes so far as to adjust the pillows, slightly, trying to make for a more cozy position for rufus to sleep in.
satisfied, he draws back, smoothing out his suit before he gives a short nod of his chin. )
Don't hesitate to let me know if you end up needing anything else, sir. I'll be outside the room until the shift change.
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Date: 2023-03-06 06:25 am (UTC)[Even in a haze Rufus notices that Tseng doesn't just drape the comforter over him but also adjusts his pillows, that little gesture that he doesn't know what to make of tonight.
He's glad that Tseng can't see his smile in the darkness as Tseng heads to the door, sinking into the pillows comfortably with a yawn. He's asleep before Tseng closes the door as he leaves the room.
It only seems like a moment had passed from when he closed his eyes until the blaring sound of his morning alarm goes off, the sound like a hammer to his head.
It takes him a moment to fumble around to turn off the alarm, things slowly coming back to him as he pulls himself up. There is no sign that Tseng had been there last night
The sound is like a hammer to the head but he still manages to pull himself out of bed, taking a moment to try to piece together what happened last night. As the pieces come together he smirks as he picks up his phone, not pausing to think if Tseng is getting some sleep now that he's off duty.]
Last night was truly unforgettable.
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Date: 2023-03-12 02:47 am (UTC)once he's tidied up, it's back to the office for a well-needed cup of coffee. blowing off the top of it, gently, he feels the phone vibrating in his pocket and draws it out, squinting faintly at the contact--and then at the time, surprised. then again, rufus had mentioned something about needing to get up earlier than usual, so perhaps it isn't too shocking.
his lips pulled into a wry grimace, playful, he brings the coffee to his lips for one small swallow. still hot. )
By that you mean you have no memory of it?
( he remembers most of it. the liquor had hit hard, but somehow, he always feels a little more awake after a night of drinking. rufus may have been hit with a bit more of a hangover than he had been. )
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Date: 2023-03-20 06:12 am (UTC)But in the middle of changing clothes, nearly falling over in the most undignified manner with a oof, he still takes a moment to send Tseng a text with a grin.]
I definitely remember you calling me a prince.
[A lot of the night is pieces that he has to put together, he's not sure if that really happened or if it was just something that he had imagined. He's not sure how much Tseng remembers either so he's not sure how Tseng will respond.]
Don't worry, you don't have to call me highness, that may get awkward.
[He has to steady himself again so he didn't have to run back to the bathroom, feeling bile in the back of his throat but he has to pretend to look fine at least for a few hours, ignoring the queasiness and headache that makes the lights feel more intense.]
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Date: 2023-03-29 12:58 am (UTC)he considers his response, over another long pull of hot coffee, and decides that it would be worst if he ignored rufus' messages entirely--then he would know that it's affecting him.
begrudgingly, he unlocks his phone again. )
Is that so? Perhaps I prefer it. Better to show my respect.
How are you feeling this morning, your highness?
( smug, he takes another sip of coffee. )
I would suggest you eat something before your meeting. That is what you have to do this morning, is it not?
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Date: 2023-04-01 05:57 am (UTC)I feel perfectly fine, don't worry, darling.
[He's not going to give Tseng the satisfaction of telling him that he felt so bad.
And he's definitely not going to admit that he'll try to eat something because of Tseng's advice, opting for a piece of toast to try to settle his stomach.]
I do, it's going to be exciting. What about you? What are your plans for the day?
[He doesn't care about being nosey, if he's going to be stuck in a board meeting all morning and then pretend to do important things during the day while actually doing pointless busy work during the day then he wants to hear what Tseng gets to do outside the Shinra Building.
He reaches down to scratch between Dark Nation's ears idly as he abandons a half-eaten piece of toast, the last thing he needed was to throw up during the board meeting.]
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Date: 2023-04-30 03:03 am (UTC)instead, he wars with the thought of whether to be honest, or not--it doesn't much matter, given that rufus could very easily ask veld or anyone else in the department for his schedule for the day. )
Paperwork, to start. It may be a bit of a light day, given that I was on guard duty last night.
( --which, of course, rufus knows very well. )
What's the topic of your exciting meeting, your Highness? Anything I should know about?
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Date: 2023-05-01 03:09 am (UTC)He was still feeling hungover but at least now he had a little distraction.]
Budget propsoals. The quarterly ritual of humiliation as everyone puts together their department budgets to grovel and pretend that Hojo and Scarlet aren't going to get most of the money.
[He lets Dark Nation finish his toast along with the bacon that came with his breakfast, kissing her on the top of her head before rushing to get dressed.]
At least last night's guard duty was uneventual so I'm sure you will have an easy time with that report.
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Date: 2023-05-16 01:16 am (UTC)( after all, he had learned a great deal about rufus otherwise; yet out of respect for both his own job and rufus' reputation, he definitely will not be including any of it for anyone to read.
like always, he keeps those things in memory only. )
Do let me know if you encounter any difficulties in your day, sir. And keep the coffee to a minimum, or at least balance it with water.
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Date: 2023-05-18 03:21 am (UTC)He can't help but smile at the last bit, glad that Tseng isn't able to see him now.] If I encounter any difficulties will you come personally to help me?
[He knows Tseng isn't on duty today but part of him selfishly wants to take Tseng up on that offer if today is yet another day that leaves him frustrated and angry from having to deal with his father.]
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Date: 2023-05-26 01:40 am (UTC)maybe. or maybe he's finding it harder and harder to dislike him, in the end. he brushes that thought aside.
instead, there's a low, soft breath--shaking his head, he continues: )
If it's after my afternoon nap.
( a bit of humor? from him? stranger things have happened. )
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Date: 2023-05-28 11:27 pm (UTC)[And before it crosses his mind that maybe he shouldn't cross this line he hits send. He's not sure what he's opening the door to, especially with someone who was probably manipulating him on Veld's orders.
It was a bad idea but the text was sent, there is no undoing it even if he wants to.
Rufus barely registers anyone around him as he takes his seat at the boardroom table, not even Hojo sitting by him distracts him as he waits for Tseng's response. But before there is any response his father clears his throat, giving Rufus a pointed look as the meeting starts.
It's hard to focus through the meeting, especially when he hears the soft vibrating of a received message. He knows his father notices he's distracted and barely focused, he doesn't have to look at him to see that.
It's not until after a long meeting that is pretty much a blur and another fight with his father about how Rufus was a disappointing heir, not worthy to take the throne, so to speak.
When he gets to his office he finally takes out his phone, placing it face down on the desk for a moment. He's not sure what answer he's going to get but finally, he turns his phone over.]
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Date: 2023-06-16 11:42 pm (UTC)it's precisely the sort of thing he would expect from rufus, in the end, which is why it nearly makes him laugh: luckily, he's still alone, without anyone to witness the once in a lifetime act. he lingers on it for a long time, considering what to say, how it might be best to react. he knows his gut reaction all too well: which is a little terrifying, when it comes down to it.
still, there's nothing too dangerous at risk here. not yet, anyway.
pursing his lips, he sends a reply: )
Not if you aren't there to accompany me.
( with some surprise, he doesn't get a message back. it hangs there, pending, and after a few minutes, he resolves not to check his phone again. stuffing it into his pocket, he goes about the day in a caffeinated haze, tending to only a small, short nap before finishing up the paperwork for the day.
veld doesn't seem to take any issue with him, or his usual reticence; the day passes by relatively quickly, in the end, bleeding into late afternoon, and he's almost at a loss for what to do with himself. a rare evening free is bewildering--especially with no answer from rufus. )
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Date: 2023-06-18 02:39 am (UTC)But even with that suspicion he finally turns his phone over to look at Tseng's message. He doesn't care about the risk now as he sends his response.]
I'll be there then. I'll even let you use my bed.
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