honeyau

[honeyau]

4.1) Jam Pinwheels

Eren had not caught a wink of sleep last night, that terrible misunderstanding having effected him just as much as his father. His chest was aching all night, the guilt swelling for his dad. All he could think about is how sad it was that he was alone with his troubles.. How Eren wanted to go out and offer hugs and brew him tea for comfort.. but Shiun has made it clear in his upbringing that he doesn’t want Eren around him in these drunken lows. He doesn’t wish to be seen in his shame.

Eren respects that.. but even still, it hurts to be of no help to his dad.

And so..! When his father proceeds to sleep past his alarms and opportunity to assist arises, Eren decides to take charge and open the Happy Fern on his own.

He knows how to work the register, after all, and can easily make any drinks to order. And though the sweets will be limited, they’ll still be plenty delicious.. He is thankful that his father sets aside the things that don’t sell for the next day..

Apron tied, eyes sunken in more than usual due to exhaustion, Eren stands proudly at the register as he awaits for any possible customers..

But an hour passes.. then another.. and with no even passerbyers, Eren struggles to stay confident and more importantly, awake..

And so the poor child has taken respite at one of the empty tables, having fallen asleep waiting on /something/ to happen..

and well, something certainly does for Eren wakes up to the register pinging open..

A sound that should /not/ be heard when unattended, it has Eeren hoping up and out of his seat, he looks around in fear for a moment but.. then sees who stands behind the counter and sighs in relief, placing a hand over his rapidly beating chest. “Oh, Uncle Sio, it’s just you.”

“Yo.” A raised hand, their fingers are adorned in a multitude of rings that are all varied in size and shapes.. a bracelet they wear slips down the thin of their wrist as well as their hand lifts. “Sorry if I startled ya.”

“Oh no, you’re fine but..” Eren gives a small yawn, settling back in his seat as he looks to them.. “why are you at the register?”

A shrug, they shut the mouth of it with a delicate slam and come to join Eren at the table. “Just wanted to see what was in it, honestly.” The closer they come, the more Eren can smell a certain.. funk. One that his dad has carried on good occasion.. he still can’t figure out what or why this smell means anything good but it never fails to have him smile just a little.

“You could of asked.”

“Yeah, but I didn’t want to.” Sio swings the chair around to where the backside faces Eren and sits, crossing their arms around the top and resting their head down on it. “You were sleeping and no offense, but you look like ya still need it.” Eren sighs.. sinking further in his own seat.. “I don’t need it as bad dad.”

This perks Siobahn up.. them looking to the kid in mild concern now. “Bad night for the big guy?”

“The worst in a while..” Eren admits, knowing that they won’t judge, especially when it comes to Shiun. He’s never understood it himself but the two of them are weirdly close. Shiun can’t even recall how they’d met but one day Sio just became Uncle and was known to sneak in the bakery just because they can.

Speaking of.. “Oh.. dad has those pinwheels set aside for you.. pineapple this time.”

“Aw, shit yeah.” A laugh, they smile to Eren with a hint of their tooth gap. “’ppreciate that, really. But I gotta ask now, what happened?” Because even Siobahn finds it odd that Eren has been left alone to the bakery.. Shiun must of really drunken past his limits to be absent this long and that’s a cause for concern.

“Oh, well.. you see, he had a date last night.. or well, what I guess he thought was a date? But this guy.. as nice as he was, he saw my dad’s affections as just a form of business.. I don’t.. get it.” a huff of frustration. Eren does not like to feel anger but he can’t help but to just a little in this case.. For he can’t understand Jaromir’s misunderstanding, nor his aggressive reaction to it..

What Eren doesn’t understand is the context of Jaromir’s face being touched, but no one outside of he and Noah know such so it’s a mystery even to Shiun.

“Yeah, that’s weird.” They agree, not sure what more to say but hoping it will suffice for him to continue.

And it is. “I mean.. Noah’lee was the one to set the whole thing up.. the guy that’s /known/ for hook ups and romance..”

Sio rolls their eyes. “Okay, whatever he wants to refer to himself as.”

A laugh, he’s always found their relationship to be odd with one another. Never getting along but not exactly fighting.. Eren doesn’t get it in the slightest, but it seems that most of the adults in his life make zero sense anyways. “But you know.. he said it was a date because that’s what he did with dad! I saw the text dad got so I bet Jaromir did as well!”

“Snooping on your dad's phone?”

A blush. “I.. I had to open his phone for something and that was left open..!” A truth but no denying in a forbidden read, Eren shakes his head. “But you understand.. right?”

“Uh.. sure.” No and it’s apparent in how they give a shrug.

“A date gone wrong, basically..” Eren mutters.. defeated but simply because he feels awful for his father’s rejection. Far too much of an empath..

“Eh, those happen and suck, but your dad will perk back up from it. It’s not worth losing sleep over.”

“But he drank so much last night..”

“Yeah, well.. He’ll wake up in shame and that will be enough to prevent a repeat.” Siobahn hopes their words are comforting in how they are stated so matter of fact, but they are confident in this for Shiun will do anything to appease his son, especially once he sees how he’s lost night’s rest over this.

There’s no need to go into that detail, however.

“Maybe.. yeah..” Eren knows they are right, details or no.. But even still.. “I just.. wish I could help him, somehow..?”

“Eh, you’ve done more than most would do, I wouldn’t stress.”

“But you’re the only customer who’s shown today..”

“Wow, now, this is a family visit, not a business one.” Sio looks to Eren in all seriousness.

“O-Oh well, yeah, it’s never for business is it?”

“Not any business you should be aware of.”

“Huh?”

a soft cackle to themselves. “Anyways, don’t fret about your dad so much. He’s an adult and has had heartbreak before. You being his kid is all he probably needs.”

“Probably..”

A shrug. “Well, he doesn’t need you passing out on the job all alone, that I know.”

A sigh for he feels just a bit of shame for having been caught in his nap, Eren simply gives a shrug of his own. “Yeah.. that’s true..”

“Maybe you should close it up? Not telling you how to live and do your life, kid, but don’t think you should be workin’ right now.”

“..Yeah.. you’re right, again..” a small smile is given to Sio.. “..thanks.. you always know what to say.”

“Uh yeah, I guess.” Sio smiles to him in turn, leaning forward in the chair until it just barely touches the table. “I’ve got ya kid.”

Eren comes to a sudden stand, smile going just a bite wider. “I’ll close up and get those pinwheels for you..!”

“Sure. We can share if ya want.” then a pause.. and question.. “They’re not uh special though, are they?”

“Hm? Well, they’re special /for/ you, if that’s what you mean!”

“Oh uh..” well, not quite the answer they need to feel safe.. “On second thought, let’s not.”

Eren laughs, not quite understanding. “Okay? That’s fine, I’ll still go for them.” a near bounce in his tired steps.. The presence of his uncle never fails to bring ease~ their laid-back atmosphere is contagious and he only hopes that they will stick around long enough for it to spread to Shiun as well.. whenever he may decide to wake up.

‘It will be alright dad, I’m sure of it..!’

[honeyau]

(4.) Wildflower

✿STORY SO FAR…. Business had gotten in the way of their conversation and so the pair had decided to meet again at closing. Time passes differently for the pair but it's finally time.. ✿

Just when Jaromir had believed an hour to pass, it’d only been half that. Time ever cruel when having plans, the beekeeper has been buzzing about his home all day just in hopes of passing the time. 

It certainly doesn’t help that he’s been unable to keep his eye off the clock.. Knowing the exact time seems to only make things slower.

Eight can’t come soon enough.. And yet once it struck seven, Jaromir suddenly became overwhelmed with the reality of another meeting. Things had gone so well and he can only assume that they’ve made a business deal considering Shiun wants to meet again but.. It feels as if he’s going in for a second interview. 

“I.. I was t-too formal earlier..” a mutter to himself, he remembers how Shiun had interpreted his actions and it makes things rather difficult.. Just how casual is he supposed to be with his business partner? 

✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿

The time had come to pass way too fast on Shiun’s end of things. Though there were little customers, there was a lot to get done before having a guest over. So much cleaning.. Shiun had gone back and forth between the bakery and home a multitude of times. 

As always, Eren had been an incredible help to his father. Keeping an eye on the business, helping clean on the side.. The two worked together to make things look nice for their special guest.

They just met Jaromir and so nothing is official, but both Shiun and Eren feel hopeful that things can go in a romantic direction.. He did agree to meet again, afterall. 

The home smells of sweet cake.. 

✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿

A dusk sky that still carries sunlight to guide any last-minute wanderers, the spring air is cold and only dropping. Jaromir huddles himself up in a sweater that has a little bird embroidered on the heart. Every once in a while, Jaromir strokes it as a reminder of his own flock at home and how he must work hard tonight to ensure business. 

Though.. How unsettled they must be with him leaving for the evening. It’s a rarity to leave the home more than once, so he cannot help but to feel just a small pang of guilt.

Such thoughts are overridden, however, as he trips over his step and juggles his home-plucked bouquet in hand.

Assorted wildflowers from his personal garden, he hopes that his offering won’t appear so formal this time.. Perhaps neighborly, if anything, and that seems ideal to Shiun.  

Phone forgotten back home thanks to his anxieties for the evening, he has no idea if he’s on time or perhaps early but.. Judging from the closed sign on the bakery, he has to assume that he’s here at a good time nonetheless..

Standing awkwardly at the door, he debates on if opening or knocking is best but luckily Eren spots him through the window and the decision is made for him as Eren makes haste to open up and welcome the beekeeper in. “You’re here!”

An incredibly delighted tone.. It has Jaromir smiling and heart fluttering in anxiety. “I-I’m here!” A lift of the bouquet, the beekeeper gives a crooked smile. “A-And with flowers!”

An awed gasp. “Beautiful..! You grew those yourself?”

“Y-Yes..” A flush over the child’s praise and interest..

Eren grins all the wider. “Amazing! This might.. Be the first time dad will receive flowers.. Oh, but! Please, come in!” Eren is all grins in turn, nodding as he begins to wave Jaromir inside. “Dad is home, I’ll lead you up!”

‘So.. the bakery is connected to their home?’ sounds all the more personal in terms of business.. No wonder he felt things were too formal; Work never leaves home and home never stays away from work.

“Thank you..” Jaromir follows with a quiet shut of the door behind him, trusting it to lock on it’s own as he follows the child in. The bakery itself still smells delightful, just as it had earlier. He wonders if the home is just as similar.. “It s-smells good..!”

“Heheh! Dad worked hard for tonight!” Eren leads the other  behind a curtain.. And there lie a set of stairs that lead upwards.. Tight, narrow, they creak with each step and as Jaromir follows, he feels himself to be nearly too big for them. How it must be for Shiun, who is certainly much larger than he.. 

“Worked h-hard? Oh.. I hope I h-haven’t put you two out of your w-way..” 

Eren shakes his head as he hops on up, excited for things to go well. “Not at all, don’t worry!” The stairs are thankfully short in their tread up.. And so Eren is soon opening up the door to their home..! “Dad likes to do this sort of thing..!” 

“W-Well.. Still.. T-thank you..”

Jaromir’s first emotion upon entering the home is hunger. The smell of baked goods is only stronger, it is potent and nearly triggers him in a drool and stomach growl.. ‘How embarrassing..’ 

A shy gaze flutters about the home.. A habit to check for any open flames, he feels assured when he does not spot any.

The notice of organized clutter and shoes left at the doorway.. An extra pair which could simply mean that but.. Jaromir worries for just a moment of another living in the home. While he’d assumed Shiun to be a single dad, it’s very possible there’s a significant other.. 

But that concern is distracted away as Shiun peers around to greet.

“You’re here!” 

“Of c-course!” a lift of the wildflowers, Jaromir gives a nervous chuckle. “F-For you! From my g-garden..”

All of Shiun flushes. A spreading of red blush, his usual grin is somehow all the bigger, and even his voice reveals his delight. “Oh Jaromir! Thank you, they’re beautiful!” The larger of the pair reaches to take the bouquet, his hands daring to linger over the beekeeper’s.. A stroke over calluses.. “I’ve never received flowers before..”

Jaromir does not take particular notice of the lingering, he’s never been one to notice such romantic and sweet gestures. Instead he shyly casts his gaze away, giving out a small laugh that sounds like soft ‘choos’.

“Eren told me.. I’m g-glad I could be the first.”

“Heheh.. He told you that, mmh?” Shiun hums in bemusement before finally pulling away from Jaromir’s touch.. “Well.. thank you, Jaromir. Let’s get these guys something to drink and.. Maybe you as well?”

✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿

And most certainly the drinks came out.. At first, Jaromir had intended to just politely sip and discuss business.. But Shiun had been insistent and his good spirits contagious, Jaromir /wanted/ to be on a similar level..

And by being on the same level means that conversation has been quite.. Loose. It’s been open and comfortable, going from the nuisance of making honey and baking sweets to just the basics of their current lives. Which, of course, includes the frustration of being friends with Noah..

“Mmh.. so he actually comes to see you once a week?” Shiun laughs over the rim of his drink before taking a sip, sighing. “That sounds like him.. Making himself present when you least want it.” The baker is quite flushed from the liquor, he having scooted his seat closer and closer to Jaromir as the time passed.. 

And Jaromir, oddly, does not mind him being as close as he is now. Perhaps it’s the shared wine but.. Jaromir actually trusts the man beside him. 

A laugh through the nose. “Y-Yes.. He does..” So drunk, his foot sways out and bonks Shiun.. “B-But he’s done /something/ g-good recently, at least..”

And how can Shiun not take that as a flirtatious gesture despite it being a genuine accident? He leans his face in.. nearly whispering.. “Mmh? What’s that?”

Jaromir doesn’t read the flirtatious tone to Shiun, how his body language is bordering that of romance instead of platonic.. Instead, Jaromir leans in himself.. As if he were about to share a secret.. He giggles in a bit of drunken spirit as he whispers..

“H-He set this up, l-let us m-meet..” 

This whole evening Shiun has found himself falling for the beekeeper.. Every laugh is endearing, his occasional slaps and bonks are heart racing, the eye contact melting.. How he could just listen to this man speak forever and never grow bored, how his heart swoons and yearns to hear more.. To learn more about Jaromir. 

The air in this moment feels all but gone, time in a halt. At least, to Shiun it does as he takes those words of kinship in a romantic context and reaches to stroke back some of the curls that shield the other’s face.. 

All in that single touch he nearly caresses Jaromir’s cheek but in that exact second of contact, the beekeeper’s stare goes wide as he whips himself back in his seat, nearly falling backwards in it as he looks to Shiun in absolute panic.

“W-What are you–”

“I’m sorry did I? Did I misunderstand something...?” Shiun cuts off, terrified over what he’s done for he’s uncertain what part had triggered this sudden fear in Jaromir.

But the other is clearly /not/ okay for he is quickly stroking and fluffing his curls up in his face, lips quivering as he looks about the room for an escape.. He feels embarrassed and overwhelmed, trapped, and almost violated.

Jaromir is even terrified that his face may of somehow be seen despite the hair never having been fully tucked aside.. and just as well, he’s terrified of how Shiun may react to his anxities, and so he just pleas quietly.. “P-P-Please.. I’d like to l-l-leave.”

“Already?” Granted, it has been over an hour now but.. “Can’t we talk this out first? I think.. There’s a misunderstanding.”

“C-Clearly..” Jaromir mumbles.. Before mentally cursing himself for having been so rude; he doesn’t wish to be mean to Shiun nor does he want more incentive to continue this conversation.. Misunderstanding or not, Jaromir wants out. 

“Hah yeah uh..” Shiun sits back in his seat, he having still been awkwardly in that closing distance even after Jaromir had pulled back. He brings a hand to rub the back of his neck, a heavy sigh.. “So.. what was this to you if not a date?” Straight to the point but.. He’s not even sure what Jaromir could have interpreted.

Still nervous strokes and adjustments to his curls.. They frazzle from his fidgeting but he cares not, he just wants to ensure that part of his face stays covered.. “B-Business..” 

“Business?”

Now Jaromir is the one to feel ashamed.. Perhaps it really was that much of a ridiculous hope that he could get /somewhere/ with selling honey.. He stands up from the seat, swaying slightly as the liquor hits his stance harder than he’d like. All is wobbly but.. He /has/ to leave.. 

Shiun attempts to stand and assist but Jaromir simply swats him away for he’s merely buzzed. “I-I’m fine..!” A huff.. He hasn’t made eye contact since the touch. “And l-leaving–”

“Please, just talk to me because maybe..” Shiun still offers his hands out to assist but he does not touch.. “Maybe we still could–.”

“Oh? You s-suddenly wish to supply my h-honey?” The liquor is not helping with his shame.. He feels awful for having misunderstood all of this from the start. It’s embarrassing! Anyone else would've picked up the signs but Jaromir has always just been so.. So dense to these things. “M-Maybe hope to date on the side? I t-think not!”

He can't help but to dwell over every action; the giving of honey and flowers, the eagerness behind Eren's gestures and words, and even his own words..

“Yes! I mean no! I mean, fuck..! Yes to the business, no to the dating.. Unless time changes that but hahhh I don’t see that happening now.. so.. Let’s just stick to selling honey and maybe becoming good friends on the side, yeah?” Shiun himself feels embarrassed.. He really had his heart set on the beekeeper and now it’s been completely shattered from even the hope of anything romantic. 

But even still.. Shiun really did feel a connection with Jaromir and he doesn’t wish to lose that.. He feels desperate to keep him but he doesn’t know how.

And even after his words of comradery, Jaromir can’t face Shiun.. “You can’t.. You c-can’t just make a decision l-like that without having any thought..” Jaromir crosses his arms in discomfort, squeezing at them as he slowly starts to make his way towards the door..“I can’t t-trust that, I’m sorry..”

“Jaromir..” Shiun begins to follow..

This has the other tensing in his step.. But hurrying towards his shoes. “Please j-just let me go, Shiun..” He mumbles, not wishing to discuss this any further.

“Jaromir..” a sigh.. “I.. have to be the one to let you out–”

“I-I can escort myself, t-thank you..!” Offended tone.. The world is spinning but he can manage.. The fresh air will certainly sober him up.

“Yes, well.. While I don’t like that, I don’t doubt it.” Shiun laughs, somehow hoping to soothe the atmosphere but it only adds to Jaromir’s offense.. He huffing as he starts to make his way towards the door.. “But!” Shiun is quick to follow after him.. “The bakery is downstairs and locked up, you’ll need me to get out.”

A halt in his stubborn steps.. “..Oh.. yes, r-right..” 

'This was a /terrible/ idea.. This entire day was a mistake.'

Silently and begrudgingly on Jaromir's end, the pair leave together.. Neither having realized that Eren had been listening in the entire night..

[honeyau]

3.1) Mixed Berry Tart

Whatever the situation had been back at the cafe has long since left Kat’s mind once she’d received the tart. Instead and begrudgingly so, all she can think about is her roommate and his spell of depression..

And how she wants it over with so that she can be the one to go back to mulling in sadness. Death of a partner versus forced separation from family.. Kat isn’t competitive but with Ijsbrand it’s difficult not to be an ass to him one way or another.

The space they share is quaint and small. A single room, both Kat and Ijsbrand have to share the bed if they wish to rest at all for she doesn’t even have a couch and the floor is hard and feels constantly cold. So.. to find Ijsbrand curled up in those shared sheets smearing tears and snot only has Kat huffing and nearly regretting trying to gift him something.. Instead, she feels she should be scolding him.

“Get up.” Ordering him around is easier, though. “It’s past noon and you still stink of last night.”

“Nng..” Ijsbrand whines, burying his face in a tear-soaked pillow.. Kat holds back her urge to rip it out from under him.

“I brought you dessert for breakfast, if that is incentive.” She holds up the small catering box, that in itself familiar enough by now for ijsbrand to know where it’s from..

“…I’m going to get fat..”

A roll of the eyes. “I am already there and I assure you, it is not that bad. Now come on, this is my day off and I must clean up your mess.”

“You don’t /have/ to do anything..” Nonetheless, Ijsbrand listens and begins to crawl himself out from the wrinkled sheets.. He feels grateful that she has not yet ripped open the curtains for the natural light from the main room is enough to have him squinting. “At least.. Let me help.”

A looooong stretch as he comes to his feet, Ijsbrand yawns and stiffles back the tears that remain before the interruption.. Sniffle, sniffle..

The moment he has finished with his adjustment to standing, Kat shoves the box in his hands and bonks her hip into him in hopes it will move him. And it most certainly does and luckily so for Kat begins to bulldoze her way through the sheets, ripping and bundling them all up as she goes down the mattress.

“You can make the bed once I clean it. But for now, get those tears dried up and eat some sugar. That will give you /something/ at least.” She begins to rip apart the sheets and luckily Ijs keeps to the side for otherwise he’d be bulldozed by her swift work.

“Mmh..” a slow backup to give her more space, he knows better than to keep standing flabbergasted by her actions. “Uhm.. thank you, Kat..”

“Just go. Oh, and Ijsbrand?”

“Yes..?”

“Be sure to use headphone if you are going to listen to him again.”

[honeyau]

(3.) Heather Honey

-Heather flowers can be a mixed meaning of sorrow and protection, of good luck and independence. A sweet, caramelized flavor, one can taste the bitter notes that accompany it.-

✿STORY SO FAR…. Jaromir has finally made it to the bakery to attempt to sell his honey! Now he must proceed with meeting the owner who he knows nothing about and thus does not know what to expect. Things will go in an unexpectant direction for both men.. ✿

“I’ve got this..” A muttered mantra, Shiun has been speaking to himself in such a way all morning. Luckily, his roommate is away either asleep or working, so there is no mockery on his end..

“You’ve got this!” But his son, oh his sweet little Eren.. Ever so encouraging, Shiun can’t help but to turn from his sixth hair fixing to instead swoop up the smaller one in his arms. The man is quite large, so the embrace he gives is enveloping but it’s delicate and loving all the same. Eren cannot help but to giggle, returning the affection with further assurance. “You’ll do great, dad. You’ll impress him with your charms and food!”

“Ohhh EREN!” SQUEEZE! There goes the delicacy.. But Eren is used to his father’s strong affections and so the child merely accepts and laughs all the more. “I really hope so! Noah told me he’s as sweet as honey and it’d be nice to have someone like that around..”

“Haha and he smells just like it!”

“Mmh? Smells like it? As if you’ve met him yet!” A deep laugh, it rumbles in the hug.

“Uhm! So yeah, about that.. I hope you’re ready cause he’s..” A wiggle to try to pry away from his father’s embrace. “He’s uhm..! Here.. oouuufff…”

“NO! Here? NOW?” Sure, Shiun’s known of this arranged date since yesterday which should be plenty of time but for the mystery man to have actually shown himself.. “What’s he like? Say his name for me again, I think I’ll get it wrong.”

“Mmh Jaromir! It’s Jaromir, you’ve been saying it right!” Eren groans, struggling to escape the embrace. “Please let go dad..!”

“So he /does/ go by the whole thing? Ill have to try not to shorten it to ‘Jaro’..”

“Daaaad!”

“Fuck. I mean ugh, right right..” Shiun /finally/ allows Eren to escape his hug, the father now beginning to mess with his tied up bun.. He’s undone it many times now, his scalp already worn from having to bear the heavy weight that is his hair only to undo and redo again..

Eren immediately reaches to grab at his father’s elbow, a soft touch that’s enough to halt Shiun in his vanity anxieties.. “You look great, dad. So..! you should really get going.. Don’t keep him waiting.. Y-yeah..?”

Finally listening to Eren, Shiun takes them to heart and nods in agreement, sighing heavily. “Yeah, mmh sorry..” His anxieties are not any more eased, however. Truly, they feel intensified over his son being calm and assuring, he doesn’t wish to disappoint afterall.. He feels childish. But it cannot be helped.. Noah has screwed him over with dates in the past, the men either never showing or turning out to be awful in one way or another. But the talk of Jaromir..

Shiun already feels his heart pounding..! Surely a crush already..

He feels for a flask in the back of his pocket, sighing deeply as he feels assured with it’s presence. No matter how this goes, he at least knows that the whiskey inside will soothe.

“Alright.. I’m ready..” He drops his hold of it and reaches to pat his son’s head, smiling with a squint of green and dead eye. “Thanks for believing in me. You’re a good kid.”

✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿✿ It’s been a short moment since Eren’s departure to fetch the owner and Jaromir feels himself jittery in anticipation. His foot taps, hands sweat and one is clutching every now and then to the pendant within his pocket. And when he’s not fidgeting with that, he’s overlooking his jar of honey.. He’d pulled out the dandelion for the occasion of them being before him, but now he is overthinking.. Is pulling the merchandise out too eager and desperate? Or does it show determination and sincerity? Was bringing so many samples too much? Is his jar even appealing? Should he of used the bear shaped ones instead–

“Hello, yes! Jaromir?” A deep voice and all the suiting for the towering man.. Such a sculpt of bulk as he looms before the beekeeper, Jaromir feels himself staring in awe for far too long and is quick to look away in a blush and stand himself up.

“Y-Y-Yes! M-Mr. Okeya, I-I presume?” Though his palms are sweaty and rough from the calluses of hard work, he still offers his hand out for a shake. “I-I appreciate you m-meeting with me today..!” A slight puff of the chest as he finally looks to Shiun, Jaromir has attempted to deepen his own voice to mirror the cadence of the owner.

“Please! Shiun is okay for /this/ occasion, don’t you think?” A hearty laugh, Shiun looks to Jaromir’s hand with a raised brow but he nonetheless accepts the gesture and returns it. Shiun cannot help but to notice how strong of a grip the smaller has.. “Bit formal, mmh?”

Meanwhile, Jaromir cannot help but to wonder why his gestures thus far are interrupted as formal considering the situation but.. He tries to keep as calm as the atmosphere around him. “S-S-Shiun..” Jaromir corrects and attempts.. He curses himself in thought over how his stutter makes it sound like a hiss or lisp.

But to the man hearing it, well.. His heart can’t settle, his throat feels tight. But he manages to laugh as he continues to hold Jaromir’s hand for a few seconds too long..

“W-W-Well uhm.. S-So Noah Lee surely told y-you why I’m h-here..” A pointed gaze to the honey on the table..

“Mmh.. Yes! But of course.” Shiun drops the hand-hold and his loud presence settles some.. A softer smile. It’s only then that Jaromir takes notice of his dead eye.. He having felt too nervous from the burst a moment ago. Noah hadn’t mentioned a thing about this guy.. Just what did he do to get that sort of injury? “And hey! You even brought some honey!”

Jaromir’s eye flutters in anxiety over his own facial situation, but it’s easily mistaken as a shy gesture of flirt instead of that of discomfort… “W-Well of course..”

Thankfully, Eren pops up with a tray of mugs and coffee pot.. He balances it with such natural ease. A tilt of the head, he wonders why the two are still standing.. “I uhm..! Coffee for the moment..?”

Though the sudden presence of the child is a welcomed distraction, choice in words has Jaromir further confused. ‘For the moment..?’ Just what does that mean? Has the beekeeper already been approved for a business deal?

“Oh, thank you so much Eren!” Shiun gestures for Jaromir to sit as he seats himself.

Jaromir feels himself overwhelmed, wanting to run away for every second of this situation just adds all the more to his confusion and discomfort. And to sit would ensure him being trapped in it all. But..

‘I need this money..’

And anyways, a fact that Jaromir must remind himself as he does ultimately take the seat once more, is that Noah Lee only ever knows eccentric people. Certainly, Jaromir doesn’t know what that makes him in this moment but if he can just remember that fact about Noah then this whole thing isn’t as weird as it could be.

Once both men have seated, Eren eagerly comes to their table with the hot brew and begins to serve.. He immediately knowing how his father likes his coffee, but as for Jaromir.. He turns to him, a smile as he pours quite a lot of sugar in his father’s mug.. “How do you like your coffee?”

‘No wonder he’s so.. Energetic.’ A slow blink as he realizes he’s being spoken to, Jaromir stutters out his response, “S-S-Same!” Then regret as realizes how his words could lead to a drink of pure sugar instead.. “T-T-Though not that much..! P-please..”

The pair laugh, Shiun’s volume bursting over Eren’s soft giggles. “Don’t worry, I don’t think most feel the way about sugar like my dad does.”

“It’s why I opened up a bakery, you know!” Shiun begins to swirl and mix his coffee as Eren begins to tend to Jaromir’s, giving a much smaller amount of a pour as requested. “To spread the love of sugar! And, well more importantly, to show my love to my Fern here.” Shiun grins to his child with such pride..

Such a sight does swell some feeling of adoration in Jaromir.. He is always weak to the sight of familial bond. It’s something he wishes he still had, but the death of a loved one is always enough to sever such connections. A squeeze to his pocket..

“There you go!”

Eren’s satisfied work is enough to break Jaromir from such thoughts and he blinks slowly as he comes to reality once more and nods with a small twitch of a smile. “T-Thank you..”

A nod and unwavering smile (though most certainly shy), Eren takes everything but the mugs and sugar for the pair to indulge in if needed and hustles on to the back of the bakery..

“He’s a g-good kid..” Jaromir looks to his own mug, watching the steam for making direct eye contact with the man before him would be too much in this moment.

Luckily, Shiun respects it and hums in agreement with his ‘date’. “Mmhmm~ Yes, he’s a wonderful boy, my joy and pride..”

“Pride and j-joy..” A quiet correction.

Shiun snorts with a bemused shrug of the shoulder. “Mmh! Pride and joy, yes!” A sip to his coffee, he seems to be basking in the love over his child even with the mere sip of the made drink. “Heh.. Annnd I see that you brought your /own/ pride and joy?”

“Why, y-y-yes!” Jaromir finds himself to be the one perking up now, his honey finally being mentioned in way of topic; finally, they can get somewhere with business.. “I brought m-more than this, a-actually..” Jaromir shyly pushes his honey across the table, an offering to Shiun. “But I s-saw the table piece and.. W-what is more s-suiting than it’s honey?”

“And uh.. What flower is this again?” The larger of the pair sets his mug down to instead bring the jar of honey close.. Examining, and reading the label.. Though it’s clear he struggles with a squint. “Dand..”

“Dandelion.” Jaromir offers politely, flushing for having spoken up /twice/ now to this guy. But he’s too entirely easy to want to help out, even with the lingering anxiety about blowing all of this.

“Dandelion! Huh.. didn’t think ya could suck anything out of those little guys.”

“Ahah w-well, bees a-are amazing like that..” An eager sit up and scoot into the table to discuss further.. “They can t-take nectar out of a-any flower!”

“But how can you tell that this is uhh dandelion and not like.. Rose?”

“I m-mean appearance is one w-way..” Jaromir leans in, pointing to the held honey. And despite knowing better, Shiun’s breath is held as if he were to possibly be kissed.. “Rose is m-much lighter. Also.. knowing y-your fields.. What’s around.. And, well.. I-I know where my girls g-go.” A wink and snort.

Yeah, Shiun has most certainly fallen for the man before him. “Mmh.. your little pride and joys?”

“Heheh.. Y-Yes..”

A moment of comfortable silence.. Only to be intruded upon by the entrance of a customer.

The soft jiggle of the bakery door opening, in comes a rather large but short woman.. Her hair really adds to her width for it’s frazzled out and long in it’s unkempt curls. She gives no regard to the pair at the table, instead going right for the register to expect service.

“Hey there, we’re closed.” Shiun sighs as he starts to stand up, his voice breaking her attention towards them now. “But we’ll be open in another hour or so, if you’d like to try then, Kat..”

And as she looks at them, Jaromir takes notice of the red ink on her face.. The scowl, the cleft lip and how she is now scowling at him in particular. The eye contact in itself feels like a hit to the face.. Intense.. “Then you should’ve locked the door. Roommate is depressed, I need to sugar rush him.”

“Kat, I’m not open.”

“Then who is that staring at me?” A point to the ever staring Jaromir, he is quick to look away in shame for being so pointedly caught. “I will be in and out then you can lock up like you should’ve.”

“It’s different, he and I are in the middle of a —”

“Do not worry, dad! I’ve got this!” Eren pops up so suddenly, the bell assumingly having summoned him from the backroom.

“Oh, Eren..”

Jaromir remains quiet on his end, now looking to his honey in a sort of dissociative state..

“Make your son do everything, it is fine. I am in favor of his service over yours anyways.” Kat huffs, crossing her arms as she now turns her attention to Eren.. and oddly enough, all of her loosens up. Fond.. “Kitten, I am in need of tart or fruit. Did your father prepare some today or am I out of luck?”

Eren perks up to be of use to both his father and the customer before him. Though Kat is a newer face, she has been coming to the Happy Fern weekly for the past month now. And each interaction eases the child around her intimidating appearance. It’s just too bad that she is still so rude to his dad.. But.. ‘She seems to struggle with adults..’

“We have tart today, yes! Would you like berries or apple tart today?”

“Oh uh.. Sorry about that, Jaromir..” Shiun knows to take over would only frustrate his son over this dating situation all the more; his dad has been annoying enough about this date..

“Oh, n-no don’t worry!” Jaromir lifts a hand to try to wave off the need for apology. “The c-customer is always f-first, yes? Hahah..”

To be understood in such a situation.. Shiun wonders if it’s dangerous how quickly he is warming up to the date but he can’t help it.. He’s as sweet as honey, just as Noah’d said..

But before the pair can warm up into things once more, /another/ customer comes in.. And this is one that Shiun knows he can’t pass over to Eren, for Harumi has always demanded for Shiun’s service only. And she tips so damn well, he can’t refuse..

A heavy sigh as he spots her before she notices him, Shiun looks to the beekeeper with such distress.. It’s clear he feels bad for what he’s about to do. “So much so it seems that.. I should help my kid out… I’m sorry, I hate to do this to you..”

Of course.. As Harumi notices the pair, she grins.. Giving a small wave of the fingers as she makes herself over to stand behind Kat.. heels clacking as if her presence wasn’t demanding enough to Shiun.

“W-What? N-no! Of course, p-please don’t let me k-keep you from working!” Though, Jaromir is unsure where to go from here.. He looks to his untouched coffee, gradually beginning to feel dejected from success.. ‘This did /not/ go over well..’

Such a look, Shiun can’t simply ignore it.. He reaches to place his hand over Jaromir’s, such strong palms enveloping them.. There is a jolt, a weird spark in the beekeeper’s heart for a moment from this touch. It’s warm, and so warm that it spreads along his cheeks.. A dark flush, it’s unsettling to say the least. But he can’t pull back.

“Let’s finish this, though..” A far quieter tone than that he’s used thus far. One that Jaromir hadnt believed to be possible from him considering his boisterous cadence.. “Tonight?”

“T-T-Tonight?” Jaromir stutters out in a breath, not realizing he’d been holding it since the touch..

“If you’re not busy..” A grin that’s sincere, if anything Jaromir has come to learn that this man is perhaps rather honest and one that he can trust..

“I-I’ll bring more h-honey.” And this time, Jaromir takes charge in ‘business’ hand hold and squeezes beneath Shiun’s. Of course, this drives the man’s heartbeat in an entire drum solo, impassioned pounding..

“Great..! Heh.. that’s great.” As the two have their exchange, Kat takes her leave. Which means..

“Ohhh Shiuuun~ スマへん~!”

“Mmh.. eight alright, then?” A short moment of ignoring Harumi.. It will be worth her mild offense for this ‘date’ to be rescheduled.

“T-That sounds great to m-me..”

“お客様を無視するやんなんか？かまへん。” (ignoring customers? That’s fine, whatever.)

“I’ll see you then.. Jaromir. Heh..” and then a drop in that handhold, Shiun sighs and begins to make his way over to the register.. “ハイハイ、来ているぜ.”

Jaromir looks to his honey and decides to leave it for now.. A small gift to the hardworking man, he hopes it will be received well.. Jaromir dares to take a short moment to observe, watching how Shiun works to tend to his very needy customer.. But caught in that stare, Shiun gives a small wave before tending back to Harumi.

Jaromir’s heart now being the one to drum, he quickly takes his leave though with hope for the evening to come..

[honeyau]

(2.) Dandelion Honey

-Bees and flowers, the taste and aroma all rely on the when and where. Just like a moment, it go down the road of bitter or sweet. Nonetheless, every golden drop heals-

STORY SO FAR.... Last week, Noah had come by to check on his friend, Jaromir, who he'd not heard from in quite some time. After hearing the reasoning was because of harvesting and then proceeding to listen to his personal worries, Noah decides to help his friend out and find a contact for him. How will things go from this point out?

‘My sweet Jaguar! Did you keep TODAY open like I said? Because you have a date at the Happy Fern at 16:00! Don’t be laaaate and come in hungry hehe! Good luck!!!! May the stars shine fortune upon you! 16:00!!!!’

Along with the enthusiastic text had come directions to the bakery which, luckily, is not too far from his hillside of solitude. Jaro had been worried about having to push his truck out in the graduating heat.. She’s been needing repairs that are out of his budget and so the thought to push and lose her altogether is enough to have him barely try to start her up.

‘B-But today could change that..!’

And such reliefs are why he ignores the specific word “date”; he believes this will all be strictly business meet up and not the precise definition. For Noah has never been one to use words in their genuine meaning.. He tends to be /too/ loving when it comes to saying anything. 

Nonetheless, Jaromir is genuinely grateful for his friend’s efforts.. And he feels positive of the outcome to come.

Afterall! He is dressed in his best shoes and khakis and a perfectly straightened tie that have been waiting for a moment such as this.. And more importantly than his attire, Jaro has a special broach safely tucked into the depths of his pocket.. As much as he wishes to expose the lily and all it’s beauty, it is the only thing he has of Yosebe and thus must be protected as if it were the very vessel of his spirit.

And it never fails to bring luck for it /is/ his brother’s support, the encouragement he’d surely give in this exact moment if he could. 

A deep inhale, Jaromir clutches to the small pocket of luck as he swallows down the want for tears and remembrance for now is unfortunately not the time for such. 

It is time to face the present, to march bravely into his future. 

As if the clovers that implant themselves along the trail that Jaromir treads were luck themselves, the day is cool and kind in cloudage and sunshine. Summer budding.. Jaromir takes a deep inhale of the air around him as shoulders a carefully packed but heavy bag. For it bares the samples of honeys to present today, their jars small but so snugged in security to ensure no breakage. 

All feels right in this moment, especially as a kind breeze caresses his cheek as if to offer relief to the beading sweat. 

A smile attempts to spread along his lips.. But falters towards the left. Nonetheless, the fiery beekeeper begins to hum hymns to settle his nerves in this walk of solitude. 

✿✿✿✿✿

The journey to the bustling town had been kind and encouraging which is something Jaromir realizes he needs /especially/ as he walks among others. It’s been a good while since he’d been out in a busy time, most of his time spent at home and any necessary departures are done as early as both time and his body will allow. 

Ever since his accident, it’s just best to avoid others as much as possible..--- but Jaromir squeezes to his bag straps to move on from such thoughts for he /has/ to be positive and strong, Jaromir /needs/ the income. His hive, his nest, it all needs him. Needs this to work out.. 

‘And it /will/!’

✿✿✿✿✿

And yet.. Despite his discomfort being among the crowds of people, Jaromir wishes more than anything that the bakery /was/ busy with at least one other customer for immediately as he comes in and the door jingles a rabbit-shaped bell, a child comes hopping out in a trained greeting.

“Welcome to the Happy Fern..!” A shy volume to his words, however it’s clear he’s trying his best. “I-I have a pot that just finished! Would you uhm..! Like some with your pastry today?” The child is tall and lanky, with sunken eyes that look as if they’d been crying or malnourished.. Which is such a difference when Jaromir takes in the beautifully, nearly pearly white hair so messily done up. A rabbit even dangles from the scrunchy that keeps such length supported.. Jaromir is noticing a theme here..

“Oh, I-I..” and Jaromir feels guilty for he’s about to throw the kid off his script for it’s clear he’s worked hard for this moment of greeting.. “I-I am looking f-for S-Shiun Okeya, actually..” but he has honey to sell. “I-I’m Jaromir Betzalel. Noah’lee i-informed me that it was alright to come by today..?”

“Oh, oh..! Yes, yes!” the child very much blushes as he begins to gesture for Jaromir to take a seat, he looking back in absolute examination as he ushers a spot to sit. Tired eyes widen in a sort of joy to match the eager tone. “H-He’s been expecting you..! Please, just a moment!”

‘Looks like N-Noah really did come t-through for once..’

The child pulls out a chair to the only table in the place that has a centerpiece of flowers. Or rather, to use the word ‘centerpiece’ makes it sounds paid for and fancy. Special. But this is merely a little vase that is filled with a handful of yellow dandelions..

An.. interesting choice but it does suit a bakery, Jaromir supposes.. “T-T-Thank you!” Jaromir’s enthusiasm carries in the grateful words, but he genuinely feels that nothing could go wrong at this point. And so he sits himself down at the given table, coaxing his bulking bag down with the utmost care. 

❤ Ba-dum ba-dum ba-dum.. ❤

Jaromir exhales deeply before giving another squeeze for luck at the lily amulet and a final fidgeting adjustment to his fiery curls. ‘I’ve g-got this..’

[honeyau]

(1.) Clover Honey

-light amber, delicate taste of sweet floral. Mayhap a promise of luck to come, there is hope in every tear-

Clovers that accompany Noah on his venture to Jaromir’s.. One would feel such company to be lucky but.. In reality, to Noah at least, he feels nothing but rising concern with every step he takes. Wearing down a man-made trail all the more, such weekly visits always have Noah heightened in anticipation to expect the worse.

How can he not? Jaromir living out in the middle of abandoned farmland.. The only close contact being his landlord and even he lives miles away.. Anything could happen out in these lands, from a stranger  breaking in, to the worn down house simply collapsing under it’s own age.

Of course, Noah has always been dramatic and it certainly doesn’t help that he’d dragged Romeo into a horror film marathon the night before.. A frustrated rumble to himself, Noah begins to jog his way up the hill. Cat-belled earrings draped to his torn ear jingle in the hasten pace.

Mountains in the far background, there are an abundance of small but steep hills about.. Wild grass and flowers, there is a constant soft sound of insect buzzing and bird chirping.. Few trees scattered about and they provide the occasional shade along the trail Noah treks up.. His jog going back into steps that now drag as he feels exhausted in his own worry and summer heat.. 

‘He better be alive to serrrve tea...’

Eventually, the star-draped man makes his way to the top of the hill, greeted by the sight of an ever-rusting truck and hawk perched at the deck.. It watches Noah, recognizing the visitor thanks to his frequency.. And unfortunately, Noah knows it as well.. 

“Heyyy Grendal…” Noah lifts his palms up in a sign of submission, knowing that this particular bird is territorial and thus rather mean.. Noah has the bites on his fingers to prove such. And he doesn’t wish to add to his collection of battle wounds.. 

And so, he tries to step around..

A lift of wings and single sound of the bells that dangle at its hood has Noah rushing past the bird, however. he squeals out an apology while he does so, as if that would give him any sort of mercy. 

“I’m sorrrrrry!!!” Rumbling out nervously, he slams the front door before him in fear of the angered bird following. 

But luckily, Grendal simply stays put and cracks his beak in mild frustration.. The hawk having learned from one too many slams to the face that Noah is not worth the hunt.. 

The door screeeeeches in the forceful shut but to have a barrier leaves Noah at ease..sighing to settle himself, he swipes away the beads of summer sweat as he calls out to his dear friend,

“Jarrrrro!” 

But there is no response.. At least, not directly. He can hear someone working outback.. Bees buzzing accompanied with poor singing.. Such sounds are assuring, to say the least, and so all the nerves the man had felt in his jog are all but gone now. 

And instead.. replaced with thirst. 

and surely, Jaromir will be of the same sentiment.. being out in the afternoon sun with his hive.. 

“Hmm hmm~” Wood flooring that is covered in mismatched rugs, it’s whines are muffled under each skip Noah hops towards the kitchen. “Time to make a little snack forrrr my busy bee, hehe..~” 

✿✿✿✿✿

A drench of sweat beneath protective wear and religious hem sung out in praise and thanks for the harvest of honey, Jaromir feels hopeful that he and his bee’s efforts will be fruitful. Something about this batch feels life changing, but Jaromir is also certain that could just be the thrill of the job.  

Such joys are interrupted, however, when Grendal flies overhead with an alerting call. Trained in protecting it’s home, Jaromir sighs as he recognizes a hint of lazy efforts in his shout. Because for Grendal to have no worry in both tone and body language means that there is a familiar guest. 

“H-Has it been a week already..” parched stutters, the morning’s work has left him far more deprived than he’d thought. He attempts to swallow to settle such discomforts and begins to close up the bee’s containment, his work having to go on hold for now it seems...

Not that Jaromir is looking forward to the guest that awaits him inside, but the sooner he tends to the unwanted presence the quicker he can go back to what matters.. 

✿✿✿✿✿

“I brrrought you this cake /last/ week, Jarrrro!” Trills and rolls to add emphasis to his disappointment, these are the first words to greet the other as they come in.. And perhaps deserved, considering.. 

“And y-you know I-I don’t have m-much of a sweet tooth.” Jaromir retorts dryly, though the rest of him is damp in sweat. “N-Nor memory..” Calloused fingers begin to unfasten a couple of his shirt’s upper buttons.. Hoping it will offer some sort of relief.. Just as he hopes that his words will be enough of an answer to satisfy Noah.   

And luckily, they are. 

Noah sighs, shaking his head in a mild disappointment as he begins to service his friend. “Thaaaat I know too well..” Pouring the pair a cool glass of tea with a table already set for two. And such a drink has never looked more appealing to Jaromir.. 

In fact..

 “It’s been a whole week since anyone has heard from you! Don’t you know how worried–” Jaromir helps himself to the first glass to be readied, nearly finishing it in a few strong gulps. Noah scoffs in offense. “Ugggh! Worrrrried I’ve been?!” 

Hard swallows and a gasp.. Jaromir feels far more refreshed than he had seconds ago and just as well, now able to handle his friend’s dramatism.. 

“y-you’re /always/ worried..” Jaromir mutters over the rim of his cup, gaze adverting away from the glare that Noah gives. He adds a huff, the other unable to at least avoid his sound of offense. “S-Sorry..” Jaro apologizes, though the sincerity is little to none. “I hadn’t m-meant to a-add to your worries..” 

Which is luckily enough for his friend.. For he gives a soft trill and thoughtful hum before reaching out to give Jaro a glass fill of tea. Though.. Such a polite gesture does not come without scolding.

“You can’t just.. Go silent like that, you know? It’s not only me..”

“...thanks..” A mummer of gratitude,  Jaromir takes a proper sip of his drink this time as he finally sits himself at the table.

Noah continues on in his nagging. “Romeo asks about you whiiich is sweet but.. It’s not exactly a turn on when your boyfriend is thinking of your best frrrriend instead of you, you know!”

No, he doesn’t and nonetheless, Jaromir could care less what that toxin feels. A sentiment he keeps to himself, however, and swallows down with another sip of black tea. 

“And noooot to mention! Yourrr sweet mother had sent me a message! as did Jama–”

“M-My m-mother?!” A squeak at the mere mention of her contacting Noah, the other can’t help but to laugh and throw down his wrist in a limp. 

“I knoooow rrrrright?” As Noah sets the pitcher of tea to the side, he begins to portion the week-old cake. Luckily, it truly did maintain a sort of freshness to it.. But it’s clear the spiced pastry had been in its prime long ago. “The lady /hates/ my guts and yet! She faced her hatred and asked about where you’d been. Ohohoh, she’s been sooo worried about you.” Knife coated in the buttercream topping and gingered crumble, Noah points it at Jaro. “I get you losing track with me and all, but you know how your mother gets if you don’t even leave her on read.”

“I-Implying s-she understands such a concept.” A pathetic retort, his stomach gives an aching growl as the spiced aroma hits his senses.. 

“All the morrrre reason to at least say /something/! Maybe, even, finally show some pictures of your home?” Returning the knife to the cake’s box, Noah gently hoists up a piece and sets it upon a small, floral patterned plate.. And a sigh as he passes the sweet along. “Sorrrrry, I didn’t come here to yell at you. Juuust.. what’s been going on?” 

“I’ve j-just been.. Busy.” Jaromir utters as he takes the given sweet, stomach aching more than his heart over the thought of his mother as the treat comes closer to his hungry self.. 

“Clearly…” certainly it’s the truth, but.. Noah is not satisfied with that alone so he gives out a downward trill of disappointment and shrug to show such. He begins to help himself to a slice of the cake, as well.

“D-Don’t be that way..” Jaromirr stutters in his grumble. “It’s true..”

“Busy with what then, myyyy little bee?”

“The hive..” A soft mutter, there is some shame in admitting it. He knows that many if not everyone sees his dedication as a joke and nothing more. And while their assumptions are certainly not true, Jaromir struggles to display his pride and prove otherwise..

 He cuts into the cake but merely plays with the end piece of it.. Anticipating Noah to laugh or show some sort of further disappointment, he feels himself already losing his appetite.

“Ohhh! So, you trrrruly have been a busy bee then!” A perked response, Noah settles himself across from the other and yet despite having the ability to just sit closer, he leans across the table to show his interest all the more. 

such a genuine tone and dramatic gesture is enough to remind Jaromir that, well.. Perhaps not /everyone/ sees his efforts as a waste. “Is there… honey, then..?!” A jagged, toothy grin. “Oh..! It’s been yearrrs! You’ve finally done it!”

“C-C-Come on!” An embarrassed blush and twitch in his smile, Jaromir gives a playful kick under the table to try to stop his friend from climbing on top of the small table. “I–It’s not been /that/ long..” Amber gaze adverts down to the piece he’d cut off the cake. His hunger returns.. Smile jittery. “J-Just a year..”

“Ohhehehhhh still! How exciting~!” Noah giggles as he flops back down in his seat with a loud creak. Even with his mere weight of bones, the chair whines as if it could collapse under him at any moment. “This is reaaaaally good news..! Right?!” 

“I m-mean.. Y-yeah..”

“Hmm.. I feel a ‘but’ therrre~” 

Jaromir huffs, hating to admit the truth to come.. “B-But.. I don’t k-know what to do with i-it..”

“Uhh? What?” A scoff of a laugh, Noah feels as if Jaromir were telling him a joke just now. “You.. You don’t know what to do with it?”

“Mmh.. y-y-yeah..” Jaromir taps his fork softly to the cake, watching how the week-old cream still manages a fluff and cling to his anxious beatings. “I.. I don’t know h-how to sell it..”

“Hmm… wellll..” Noah taps at his chin in thought, completely ignoring the sweet and drink before him to instead focus on the mentioned issue. “I’m surrrrre some dealers I know could find use for it..”

“D-Dealers?” A hopeful look up to Noah.. “H-Honey dealers?”

“Drug dealers but..! That /is/ one’s honey.” Noah giggles and not even another kick under the table can get him to calm in his own bemusement. “Heheheheh! Come on, it cooould work out!”

“I don’t w-want to be associated with anything illegal..!” 

“Okay, okaaaay! Let’s think forrr real, then! Hmmmm…” Noah leans back in his whimpering chair to brainstorm. 

And finally giving into his hunger, Jaromir scoops up the portion he’d carved out and eats it. The very moment the dessert touches his senses, Jaromir is /moaning/. 

“Mmmh..!” The spiced pastry is out of it’s prime and yet it has him sounding out praise as if it were just made for him. 

And because it is so divine to his tastes, Jaromir begins to dig into the plated slice as if he hadn’t eaten in days or even weeks. “Mmhthisisg-g-g-ood!”

To see Jaromir so immediately perked by the dessert, Noah only giggles in glee as he claps his hands together in agreement. “Ohhh I know, I knoooow! Shiun makes the best desserts, heheh!”

“S-Shiun?” Swallow. “D-Do you know e-everyone?”

“Kiiiiind of.” Noah already begins to prepare another portion for his friend. “I worrrrked for him not too long ago.”

“W-Worked? And you /n-never/ told me?”

“It was around that wooing Romeo era, you know how that was.” 

Far too well.. It’s what put their friendship on the fringe because of that man’s toxicity. Jaromir really means it when he views Romeo as a poison that’s taken root in Noah. 

But he learned quickly that his warnings were for naught and so the man himself is rather taboo between them now. Casual mentions are fine, of course. But anything deeper is basically a line to never tread again; Noah can’t handle the truth and Jaromir isn’t one to refrain from it.

“Mmmh..” Jaromir simply hums, politely pushing his plate forward to welcome the second slice. 

Noah gives a nervous laugh as the topic hovers to go further but.. Knowing better, he changes it as a second or two passes. “Wellll, anyway.. Yeah, he owns a bake..rrry..” a thoughtful trill as Noah halts in his serving of cake. “..ssooo! The honey is good to sell, then?!”

“Uhm..? Y-Yes.. It is..” A very abrupt change in topic.. But ever expected when conversing with Noah. “I-I mean.. I-I need to jar it u-up and label and s-s-such but.. Yes..” 

“Purrrfect!” So cat like in how he lightens up, Jaromir can just imagine the tail and ears alongside his vibrating speech. “Okaaaay, well! Glad to see you’rrrrre doing well! But you and I got work to do, sooo!” 

“W-What?” Jaromir stampers, watching as his friend zooms and shuffles out of the creaky kitchen. Such a change in energy, he was certain that Noah was going to stay at least an hour as he normally does.. 

For a moment he is abandoned in his confusion but so very quickly does the thin man return with a quick side-embrace to his friend. 

SQUEEEEZE!

 “I’ve got a connection forrrr you and one that is legal! Keeeeep Friday open okay?! Shiun tends to be frrrree then!” 

“Y-Your old b-boss..?!” Jaromir squirms in the short hug, Noah quick to let go though not for the reason of Jaro’s discomfort. “W-Wait a minute, N-Noah Lee!”

The use of his full name ought to be enough to keep him for a second longer.. But unfortunately, the other is so filled with determination and hope that he just giggles it off and skips his way towards the front door. 

“Eat that caaaaake before then! But come in hungrrrry! I’ll text you laterrrr, sooo~! byeeee!”

So loud of a presence Noah always is that Jaromir can’t help but to feel a sort of discomfort with the abrupt silence that always accompanies after his departure. Days upon days of being alone, it’s easy to forget how quiet his home and these abandoned lands are. 

“T-That.. Was too much..” As it always is.. Jaromir sighs before reaching to bring the cake further. Dessert for lunch.. 

How his mother would smack him for this and call him out on weight gain.. Though, she would certainly give a harder scorning if she’d found out just how old Jaro had allowed this cake to get.. 

“I-I-I really do need to get back to h-her..” Another mutter, anything to fill this silence. To help him adjust to it once more.. A sigh.. “L-Later.. Though..”