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[The next few weeks were... Well "less than stellar" would be a severe understatement. It was no surprise when pretty much everyone in their circle learned about the giant mess of a fallout that occurred between the two. Understandably, Leia had the sympathy and Alvin the flack. Even Jude confronted him and punched him when he couldn't explain himself. What confused everyone was that it was clear the two did have mutual feelings, but the one who was supposed to be an adult wasn't acting them. Rowen tried to reason with him, to give him that elderly mature advice and remind him that this was not the path he had chosen and was one they all thought he had left.

Time and time again, Balan, Rowen, Jude, and even Yurgen asked him the important question: Why not? And all Alvin could say was that it just can't. Eventually they stopped asking since it was clear that Alvin had made up his mind. They didn't agree to it, but there wasn't much they could do. Elize again did not want have anything to do with him, both hurt and disappointed by his actions.

Only Elle contacted him again, and with her usual forthright attitude, remark how stupid he was being. Perhaps it was because Elle didn't have as many deep roots with them that she was able to not be as adversely affected by Alvin's action. She had never seen him before, so it just seems weird to her. And it was to Elle he eventually caved and told about he didn't think he would be a good match for Leia—that she deserved more. When he started to say he wanted her to be happy, Elle was quick to point out that what he was doing now wasn't really helping that. It was a fair point, and one he knew himself, but he just remained silent. He was using the logic that it might be painful in the short run, but it would be better in the long.

While Alvin was on his GHS, Elle had wandered into his office and was just being a nosy pre-teen, looking through his desk. It was there that she stumbled across the long forgotten tickets, and when she pulled them out, Alvin had caught her and was about to give her a playful smack on the head as punishment. But when he saw the tickets, he froze. He remembered the circumstances as to how he acquired them...and more about that particular day. When he saw Elle notice a particularly worn and old looking letter, he quickly shut the drawer, telling her to quit being nosy. But when she asked about the tickets, he told her the truth—they were for him and Leia. The deal was if she didn't miss her deadlines, he'd take her up there. Of course...that plan was shot now, so if Elle wanted to, she could go with Leia in his place.

Of course the girl would have none of it. She quickly pulled out her GHS and called Leia, asking where she was. After that, she grabbed Alvin's hand and forcefully dragged him out, even kicking at his shin when he tried to protest (and damn did that hurt). Not long after, they were at Helioborg, and again Alvin hesitated. He knew what the girl was trying to do, and somehow his feet actually allowed his body to be dragged to it. He had avoided Leia as much as possible, keeping only minimal contact and giving her short replies to any texts or calls she gave him. So seeing her there talking with Jude and Balan made his blood run cold.

It was awkward—he could see Jude giving him the cold look and even stepping closer to Leia, as if to help protect her for whatever pain he might dish out next. Balan on the other hand was a bit intrigued (of course he would). And then Elle was shoving and pushing him toward the group. The topic of the hot springs began, and even though he tried to just give the tickets to Leia for her to do what she wanted, she refused to take them. But he was refusing to go with her because it would be a bad idea. In the end, Balan settled it by taking the tickets and actually calling the hot springs.

"You're lucky, Alfred," Balan said after he hung up. "Those almost expired and that would have been a waste. But you're both good to go now! One honeymoon suite for just the two of you. It was the only one left, so you only have yourself to blame," he added when everyone gave him incredulous looks. "Anyway, it's about time we got back to work. Let's go, Jude."

Alvin could feel the intense look his old friend was giving him. Jude would later call him not to yell, but in a tired and somewhat pleading voice told him, "Just don't hurt her anymore, okay, Alvin? I know you're better than that, so...just try talking it over?"

The days leading up to that overnight trip were heavy for him. Several times he thought about just canceling, but the pressure everyone was giving was more than even he could take. And really, he did owe Leia at least something. He had asked for time to think. Hadn't he thought enough? The very least he could do was at least finally tell her what his thoughts were about this. To apologize. But all the endings that came to his mind after that...they didn't exactly leave him feeling all that good.

And now, they are at the hot springs. He tried to keep a normal facade, smiling and being as casual as possible with her. But he still maintained that distance, both physically and emotionally. Of course they were mistaken as an actual couple, particularly when they were rung up and led to their room. Of course that would just...bring a lot of awkwardness to stay, so he suggests they walk around, check the place out. As is the protocol, they had to change into the yukata-like robes provided and seeing Leia...well he tries very hard not to think too much about it, for once not commenting on how she looks.

The resort is rather large. Not as large as the water park, and it has a very old, traditional Kanbalar flair. But because of the season, there are plenty of people, both from Rieze Maxia and Elympios. There are families, singles, couples. It definitely had a relaxing atmosphere.

Now if only he could actually feel that way.

As they walk, he finally glances over to her.]

So...what do you think? I have to admit it's pretty nice.

[Small talk. Small talk is good, right?]

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I dunno! Dinner and a movie, I guess?

[ even if that's... kind of proving his point, since that's the kind of thing they've always done. ]

Unless you've got any better ideas, that's all I got.

[Definitely proving his point.]

So the "usual" dating activities are out.

I'll see if I can figure out something different. But would you rather have a "romantic" date or something more "fun"? Unless you really do want "traditional."

[Since she mentioned that a few times to him before, at least for the art of "courting."]

It can be romantic and fun at the same time, right? You know, like... a fancy dinner followed up by something really fun.

[ though, if she thinks of it as an actual date that they're planning, a part of her might want something more traditional (for their first date, at least). so... ]

And you can make it just a little traditional, too, as long as it's not too stuffy.

[This...is sounding so complicating. Was dating always this complicated? Oh, right, he never really dated before.]

I'm starting to already regret this question.

Edited 2015-02-10 16:45 (UTC)

Hey! Aren't guys supposed to be happy to do something nice for their girlfriends?

[ ... actually referring to herself like that feels a little weird, but it is true, so she's going to casually shove that awkwardness down. ]

[—Hearing it is just as awkward for him, but he, too, just ignores that.]

Only if the reward is worth the effort. If I do a good job, do I get something special?

Y'know, some people might say getting to go on a date together is a reward all on its own!

[ that might sound more than a little cheesy, but she's... mostly joking. so, she shoots him a cheeky grin before continuing: ]

But I guess I can do that. What kind of "something special" did you have in mind?

If I have to figure out the date, you'll have to figure out the world. Of course I can think of a few things...

[Devious look goes here as he leans in closer to her.]

[ aaand there goes her mind, right into the gutter. between the look on his face and the way he leans in, though, it probably can't be helped. ]

I dunno... Weren't you just saying that you're not sure if we're ready for things like that?

[ of course, that's not even touching her own feelings on the matter, since even now there's definitely a lot of temptation. ]

[That earns her a small look of surprise.]

If I didn't know better, I'd say your mind is dirtier than mine. [Okay, so he might have thought about it, but he wouldn't really go that far. Maybe. Well he wouldn't plan on it.]

[ hey, at least she can blame her stupid teenage(-ish) hormones on where her mind keeps going. he has no excuses. ]

Yeah, right! You're the one who was like, "oh, I totally deserve an award for holding back," earlier! My mind is squeaky-clean compared to that.

[He's a guy. That's a legit excuse right there.]

My mind is perfectly healthy for the adult male. But this time around I wasn't thinking about going that far. Not that I can blame you, though. I know I'm a pretty good catch and it's hard not to be tempted around me.

[Leia, seriously, why do you like this jerk.]

[ it's not like what he's saying isn't true— he is a good catch and she is tempted— but the way he says that earns him another elbow to the side. ]

If you don't cut it out, I'm gonna make you sleep outside.

[He just laughs as he leans closer, as if to kiss.]

And leave me to freeze during this blizzard? I think you might start feeling lone—

[He's only half-joking, but as if in cue the windows actually start to rattle, cutting his words.

That blizzard they had been told about is finally making its way through, and it's might be stronger than anticipated. Even the power starts to flicker for a moment, and this actually makes him pull back a bit to glance up at the lights. Because the inn itself has an old-styled structure, even with the heated floors the heating insulation isn't as great as modern buildings, so it won't be long before the cold seeps through. He can only guess it will get worse when the lights are actually off, whether voluntarily to sleep or actually cut out due to lack of power.]

It's really coming down, huh? Maybe I should get that fire going.

[ she's thinking about closing the distance between them for another kiss (partly because she wants to and partly to shut him up) when the windows rattle and the power flickers.

it actually startles her into pulling back, too, because even if the news of the blizzard was in the back of her mind, she wasn't quite expecting that. ]

Yeah, that'd probably be a good idea. [ she gives a quick nod. ] I don't really want you to freeze or anything.

[ of course, sleeping together will help with the cold, too, but getting the fire going before the power potentially (or maybe inevitably, judging by the way it flickers again) goes out couldn't hurt, either. ]

I'll get those extra blankets all set up while you do that. Sound fair?

[ that way they can just focus on getting comfortable when the time comes to actually put them to use. ]

[Why are they always interrupted, anyway. But he nods, moving to stand.]

Sounds like a plan. I'll get it started in the room, and if there's anything else you want to bring in, go ahead. I don't think either of us are going to be wandering back in here if it really does get as bad as they say.

[There's another loud rattle as if to emphasize his words.

As the woman had said, the fireplace is one that is shared between the main room and the bedroom, so it made sense that the wood bins would also be shared. The fireplace itself was a rather simple hearth with a door on either side which could be closed. He closes the side on the main room, which should help allow the heat of the fire to focus on the bedroom they would be residing.

The bedroom itself is as traditional and simplistic as everything else, and is actually three-quarters of the size of the main room. Part of it is cut in for the outside veranda and neighboring bath. But it's still rather spacious and plenty for two people sharing the floor—which, again going with old tradition, is how they will be sleeping. Instead of a raised mattress as most beds are now designed, there is one large futon with two pillows. He does seriously wonder how warm such a simple "bed" can be so he's glad they have the fireplace and extra blankets. He also notices there is a tea set, so if they ever want a hot beverage, that should be doable.

While stoking the fire, his mind does drift a little. The day had been...rather stressful, so the fact that they could start acting like normal and flirt like they are is probably a miracle as well as telling of their own strong bond. Even though he had jeopardized it and even tried to sever it, it just wouldn't break. Neither Leia nor his true feelings would allow it. And now they're in this relationship. He still has his doubts about himself, but the more he just lets himself give in to his true feelings and desires, the easier it seems to come. Of course being near Leia with all these stimulations and tensions had made it difficult to resist, so now that he is separated from her...

The fact that they will be sleeping together and as a couple starts to sink in a lot heavier than it did before. It's not that he didn't see or thought about the implications, but given how they were acting just minutes before, and how close they had been, he does wonder if maybe he should sleep in a separate room. Maybe he can just take some of those blankets, open the other side of the fireplace, and try his best to stay warm. It's like now that his mind is no longer fighting against what he really wants, there seems to be a lot less restricting him from acting out on them. And after all this time and their current state of dress and after what the staff woman had said...

Yeah, that temptation is going to be really strong, especially since the girl herself seems more receptive to it than she should.

Healthy adult male mind his ass he really does need to try and keep his own mind out of the gutter and urges under control or he might screw this up in a completely different way. At least he can find some solace in knowing that he would never do anything against Leia's wishes (except when it comes to initially accepting her feelings, apparently) since he doesn't want to hurt her again (and maybe actually do it right this time).

With all those thoughts being shoved to the back of his mind, he glances over at Leia whenever she enters.]

So think we have enough blankets?

[ she takes her time in gathering up the blankets (and maybe having a quick snack as she does, because she can and she doesn't want to haul a bunch of food into the bedroom), and... well, her mind wanders, too.

the fact that they're together— not as best friends, but as a couple— honestly feels a little surreal. even though they were flirting and exchanging kisses not too long ago, now that she's alone and getting ready to head into the bedroom to spend the night together (as a couple), she almost can't believe all of those things actually happened. especially not all the flirting.

... which just brings all of the places their current situation could go to the front of her mind. the kisses they shared hadn't been chaste, and they even even briefly touched on more intimate topics, so knowing that they'll be sharing a room is sort of... a lot to deal with. there were already points in the night where she probably would've happily gone along with anything alvin could have initiated— there were even points where she thought of initiating things— and that was while they were hanging out together casually, sitting side by side. if they were both tempted like that without adding a bed to the mix, what would happen once they were laying together in the dark?

the thought that they can't go all the way, anyway, since they weren't planning on ending up like this and likely aren't prepared for the risks that would be involved does cross her mind, but that's... not something she should be thinking about, anyway.

after taking just one more moment to make a futile attempt at wrenching her mind out of the gutter, she forces herself not to dwell on it any longer as she nudges the bedroom door open, arms full of blankets. ]

You betcha! I've got three here, and there's one more back in the other room if we end up needing it.

[ between the fire, the blankets, and the body heat they'll probably be generating, though, she suspects it won't be necessary.

so, after she gets that out, she's going to carry them to the futon and start spreading them out over it while he works on the fire. ]

Should be plenty then.

[He nudges a few logs into position, the low, glowing embers burning slowly beneath. But after a log finally catches, there's the telltale pop and crackle before soon a small blaze of fire started to rise and grow, the sounds growing just as strong. Alvin can feel the heat spreading outward, so with this, those blankets, and each other, they should be set.]

Kind of wish we had some marshmallows. [A small joke as he puts up the tools and steps back, examining his handiwork. Yep, that's definitely a damn good fire. He might not have had to make one in a while, but old skills are hard to lose.]

That'd be pretty nice, huh?

[ she turns her head to look back at him for a moment before folding the blankets back a bit, a sign that she's probably done with her half of this, too. ]

I guess if we ever get the chance to come out here again, we can try to remember to bring some along.

[ and... well, now that everything is all ready, she might as well give the futon a shot, right? so she's going to go ahead and slip under the blankets now, pulling them over her lap as she does. ]

To bring marshmallows to a hot spring? Seems a little odd.

[So he says as he starts turning around to face her, but then he has to pause a bit because...she's already in the futon. She's...already in the futon. Somehow the image of that is sending an awkward vibe through him. And why does she oddly look both cute and attractive at the same time how does that—

At any rate, it's only going to be more awkward if he just...stays standing there so he'll...move to...his side. Of. The futon. And sets himself down next to her.

Don't think about it, Alvin, just don't think about it.

EXCEPT NOW THAT THEY'RE BOTH HERE IT'S AWKWARD IT'S REALLY AWKWARD. (Of course he thought things how could he not.)]

So... Tired?

[Yes, that is so smooth, Alvin. So smooth. (Not.) Actually he really doesn't know what time it is, is there a clock—okay not that late.]

[ once he's on the futon with her, she feels the awkwardness, too. it was one thing to think about sleeping together, and it was another to actually sit on the futon by herself— sitting beside him is in a completely different realm than both of those things, though.

that feeling of being acutely aware of where this could go comes back, and she shifts around, fidgeting awkwardly and smoothing the blankets over her lap in an attempt to control the nervous energy that she's starting to feel.

and when he asks his question, she immediately wishes her GHS weren't in the other room now, just so she could check the time, or... do something, because she's definitely not tired. ]

Nope, not really. [ cue a little more fidgeting as she continues: ] I don't usually go to bed until way later than this.

[ because she gets distracted by work or— on days where she's procrastinating— funny shows on TV, or even going out places with him.

which just loops her mind back around to the tension between them. ]

What about you? Feeling ready to turn in yet?

Not really, no. I'm also a night owl.

[Even if he were tired, he has a distinct feeling that he'd stay up due to nerves. Which is really odd if he thinks about it. He's never been nervous or this awkwardly tense around a woman before. Not even Presa. It's also strange since they've chilled in beds before. It's just... They had only been friends and there weren't any meanings or possibilities back then.

First they were awkward because of the distance he had put between them. Now they're awkward because there's no distance between them. Is this what people mean when they talk about how having actual feelings for someone would be like?

So he's silent for a few moments and he's considering suggesting they talk about...work or something, but then there's a large rattle, a bang, and then the power flickers before it cuts out entirely, a cold draft immediately creeping in.]

Guess we set up just in time.

[ she was on the verge of saying something, too, when the power cut out. even if they had been warned about this being a possibility, she had been clinging onto the hope that they'd manage to get through the night without that happening, but... no such luck, apparently. ]

Yeah! Talk about awesome timing.

[ except she can already feel the chilly draft coming despite of all of their preparations, so she's going to pull the blankets up a bit and (very, very tentatively) scoot closer to him. ]

I guess we should try and get cozy 'til it passes.

[ she's still hesitating to actually make contact with him, but. she's trying, okay. ]

[It's probably a good thing the power went out because he is sure he probably looks a little awkward at the thought of "cozying it up."

But in the end, he just mentally pushes those thoughts. He's an adult, dammit. They've hugged and "cuddled" before. Just because they do the same thing here doesn't mean that things have to happen. Plus, he really does want to hug her close to him. Darker desires aside, he missed being close to her, and now he can in a different way.

So when she scoots over, he moves to actually lie down, turning his body to face her, and just reaches an arm out to be around her and firmly pull her to him. It does feel a little awkward since he's so self-aware, but at the same time...it feels nice to be able to do this. He's sure if they loosen up a bit, they'll probably go back to that bit of flirting before, getting lost in the moment and stop being so self-conscious. And already this is starting to feel natural.]

Wh—

[ she definitely wasn't expecting to be pulled to him, but it's probably good that he broke that barrier because she wasn't getting anywhere fast.

she has to shift around and pull the blankets up a bit before she can really feel comfortable (physically, at least, because being this close to him has definitely left her feeling frazzled), but she's actually pretty quick to settle down. she might even curl a little closer to him, one arm coming up to loosely drape over his middle, after a moment.

her heart is racing and it's an effort to keep her mind from wandering too far, but being close like this definitely isn't a bad thing. so, she even manages to keep from sounding too painfully awkward when she finally speaks up. ]

You know, you're actually pretty warm.