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[childeishly]

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[leaveofabsence]

[ How does one calm their own nerves when they've been out of the dating scene for hundreds of years? Or let's face it, Zhongli was too much of a workaholic to ever be in the dating scene proper to begin with.

He at least remembers to dress up in something more reminiscent of what he wore back in Teyvat. But that surely does not him prepare him for what Childe is wearing, which he may or may be staring at (he is!).

Or prepare him for how much work has been put into the venue.

His voice is still a little quiet and rough as it is still on the mend from the game as he speaks: ]

I--- This is beautiful. You both have really outdone yourselves.

[childeishly]

[ tries to keep his excitement curbed and his tail still, but it’s twitching like childe could pop any second. it it also nerves, yes, it’s absolutely also nerves. ]

I’m glad you like it, Xiansheng. I wanted to do something, ah, special, so… yeah. [ small talk is suddenly difficult. ]

[leaveofabsence]

It is very special. Thank you.

[ Zhongli places his hands on Childe's shoulders (trying to straighten the collar uselessly please he can only take so much) before alternating three kisses to his cheeks, starting from the left. Did this style of Snezhnaya greeting make it way to modern times? Zhongli neither knows nor particularly cares at this moment.

Sorry, other couple, for the PDA. ]

[childeishly]

…it’s not nearly as special as you, but I certainly tried. [ his face colors as soon as zhongli starts trying to fix his collar. ] Hah, Xiansheng, I- [ /// ] come here. [ he cups his cheek and guides him into a proper kiss. ] thank you for indulging me. Just being able to see you again, and see that smile of yours, makes this worth it.

[leaveofabsence]

Your flattery is as eloquent as always. I will endeavor to ensure that you are never left bereft.

[ He returns the kiss before wrapping an arm comfortably around Childe's waist. ]

But oh--- did you also prepare some dishes from your hometown?

[childeishly]

[ leans into zhongli. ]

I did-! I made varenik, beef stroganoff, and chicken kiev. [ points to each dish in turn. ] I thought I'd share some of my favorites with you. I would have made more, but this seemed like plenty... especially for only four people.

[leaveofabsence]

I'm sure they will be plenty of opportunities to try many things from your homeland.

[ Then with a light laugh: ]

And of course, to properly experience Snezhnayan gastronomy, you'll have to teach me how to eat them.

[childeishly]

Morepesok is known for a number of delicious seafood dishes, being on the coast, but I knew those might not have been something you'd enjoy. Maybe one day I'll coax you into giving at least one of them a shot. [ his own specialty ♥ ]

I think you'll find a fork and knife are infinitely more simple to use that chopsticks. [ WHICH ARE BASICALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO MASTER. ] But I can show you no problem, here. [ even though there's really not much to know about how to use either of these utensils childe still takes zhongli's hands to slot them into place, stealing a kiss to his cheek as he presses closely. ]

[leaveofabsence]

[ Ah.

He flushes lightly at the kiss. And is suddenly very aware of how distracting it is to be on the receiving end of such a lesson. Something that he is filing away for later ab(use).

He lets Childe guide his hands as he pleases. ]

Like this?

[childeishly]

Exactly. [ helps zhongli pick up a piece of chicken, not that he thinks he needs it, but he will let go so he can eat on his own… instead resting his chin on his shoulder and circling both arms around his waist. ] Tell me what you think, Xiansheng.

1/2

[leaveofabsence]

[ The chicken is honestly the last thing on Zhongli's mind as Childe presses up against him. And so the fork just hovers there for a moment before he finally puts it in his mouth. ]

[leaveofabsence]

[ And then makes a pleased humming sound.

Okay, now his attention is on the chicken. ]

It's good-- very good. The chicken is expertly cut and cooked while the garlic butter adds a deep richness to the dish, which is offset by the parsley's freshness.

[ He elegantly cuts and eats another bite. ]

And is this sea salt I'm tasting...?

[childeishly]

Xiansheng has the perfect palate, but, hm, I think I need to double check... [ slides a hand up his front and to his chin, turning his head to give him a kiss. ] Ah, sea salt, yes, ...though [ his lips quirk into a smirk. ] there's a hint of something sweet. I wonder what that could be.

[leaveofabsence]

[ He laughs. How can he do anything but when Childe is being this endearing? ]

Is that not a detriment to your savory dish?

[firstworldproblem]

I had a feeling your dear Caeli would be an overachiever.

[leaveofabsence]

Oh? What had given you that impression?

[firstworldproblem]

Boundless energy. A desire to drive forward. Pushing himself to try new things.

Do you not see that in him? Though I have only known him briefly.

[leaveofabsence]

Of course. That is one of the most endearing things about him - that he refuses to acknowledge limits.

[firstworldproblem]

Feeling constrained? A little awe. A little jealousy mixed with pride at that what he might accomplish.

[leaveofabsence]

Constrained? No. I myself am mostly retired to the job of consultant after accomplishing the tasks that I wanted to.

Perhaps it is more hope to see that the future will be grasped by those who are not completely bound by traditions of old.

[firstworldproblem]

Ah, so you must buy back your memories. Though you are rather new here, are you not?

[He huffs.]

A valid sentiment I suppose. Though they would do well to remember the past.

[leaveofabsence]

Ah.

Not quite. All my memories are still my own. If I am speaking truthfully, I cannot imagine a life without them. Though it seems most manage well enough.

[firstworldproblem]

You and I are the same in that aspect. Perhaps we are simply too stubborn to let them go.

[leaveofabsence]

So you've also a contract with the production. And yet you have no issue sharing such a fact openly.

[firstworldproblem]

The production does provide a service to those desperate in seeking another options. The inclusion of those who come without a choice is regrettable, but for those that come with a wish in mind... perhaps they will find what their hearts truly desire.