[ While Tech Boy's busy with his latest jaunt into the network, K has occupied himself in the kitchen preparing what he hopes will be a successful surprise. It's the culmination of hours of research and several failed attempts, but he's sure he has finally unlocked the secrets to achieving the perfect pizza crust — and without undercooking or burning the rest of the ingredients. Who knew junk food could be so difficult to make at home? Of course, with full control over the ingredients, this will prove to be a healthier alternative to commercial offerings... while hopefully still being tasty. A labour of love.
The pizza is in the oven and K's in the process of cleaning up when Tech Boy reappears. Pausing what he's doing, K turns to greet him with a smile and gestures to the counter where there's a katydid brooch, a circuitry keychain, and a patch, along with Martin's letter explaining their purpose. ]
One of those is for you. From Sims's boyfriend, Martin. I believe you met him on the network.
[ Tech Boy finally emerges from their bedroom, stretching his arms over his head. His deep dives into the Deerington network have taken a lot of his time recently, and K has been so patient with him while he works. He reaches out using their internal connection to gently, wordlessly touch even before he sees K in the kitchen.
If the Technical Boy was the type of god to have saints, K would be chief among them. He's terribly fond.
He returns the smile readily, giving K his full attention before his constantly active mind is distracted by the objects on the counter. Picking up the letter (how old fashioned, a hand written note), he scans it quickly with a curious furrow of his brow. ]
I did meet Martin briefly. This is an interesting peace offering.
[ He loops his fingers through the ring of the offered key chain then strokes the back of the little brooch with a fingertip. ]
A kadydid. That's cute.
[ Tech Boy reaches out to take hold of K's waistband, just hanging on for now. ]
[ K's smile becomes a touch diffident as he turns back to the sink full of soapy dishes, ducking his head. ]
It's a nickname he gave me when he couldn't remember my serial number.
[ An actual nickname. The only one he's been given, other than the practical shortening of his serial number to "K" — unless terms of endearment count as nicknames, too? Either way, it's significant to him for reasons he probably doesn't have to explain to Tech Boy, and so the katydid brooch is... strangely sentimental to him, too, more than Martin could probably know.
When Tech Boy gets closer, the amorphous pile of black sand that's been gathered on K's feet moves to collect on Tech Boy's too, investigating him. K also flicks some soap bubbles at him. ]
Experimenting. [ With an unnecessary nod toward the oven; the telltale smell of pizza gives away some of the surprise. ] Hopefully you'll like it. ...Hopefully it's edible. How was work?
[ Tech Boy is very very careful to keep his internal frown to himself. Kadydid is a really cute nickname, and he's ashamed he hadn't thought of something like that first. In truth, he's got something in mind, a nickname for K, but he's still getting used to the idea of nicknames used in a fond manner instead of a derisive one. The Boy's fondness for K is easy. It's the expression that it sometimes still tricky. He's working on it.
K and his patience with the irrational god. Saint K. What ever could Tech Boy give in return? He has an idea about that. ]
Oh, I like experimenting. [ He makes an obvious show of inhaling pizza smell, but the lopsided grin that follow implies another meaning, too. ] I'm sure I'll like it.
[ He bends down a little to offer his hand to the black sand like someone might offer to a dog, still holding on to K with his other hand. This is one of the new types of Pokemon, and Tech Boy isn't really sure how shiny amorphous piles of sand usually greet pseudo-strangers. They're still getting used to one another. ]
Work continues to be unsuccessful. This fucking network feels like wading through, well, sand. No offense. But there's no point in dwelling on it. [ Personal growth? ] Not when you've been in here working so hard.
It's almost ready. You chose a good time to take a break.
[ How the Sandygast greets people is soon answered when its mouth suddenly expands and it engulfs the offered hand. Which doesn't hurt, given how fine and soft the sand that comprises its body is, though the pressure might be uncomfortable. Tech Boy is perhaps too big to be prey (outside of being on a beach), and too divine to be easily controlled, so after a couple minutes it releases him and shifts onto his hand instead, wanting to be picked up. Hello, new friend.
K, meanwhile, has been finishing up the dishes and dries his hands on a dishcloth before turning back to face Tech Boy, leaning against the counter. ]
Looks like you passed the taste test. [ He notes, sounding amused. Had there been any real threat, he would have of course intervened; he's just glad his little sand monster seems to like Tech Boy. ]
Sorry the network's still giving you so much trouble. [ Taking Tech Boy by the hips, K pulls him closer and leans in, closing the remaining distance between them to brush their lips together. He can help with the not-dwelling part, at least. ] Have an experiment of your own in mind?
[ The sensation of having his hand nommed on is interesting. Too weak for use against a god, but certainly something that could cause a weak-minded human some trouble. Poor thing doesn't have anyone in this apparent to control. But that's why these things are so cute. So sentient beings, be they android or deity, decide to take care of them anyway.
So how exactly does one pick up a pile of sand? That's clearly what it wants. Tech Boy kind of awkwardly pats it on the top of it's head(?) for now, as he instead allows himself to be pulled over by the hips. The kiss gently soft resets Tech Boy's thoughts. K's good at that. ]
I'd be more worried if I didn't pass your taste test. But approval from your Sandygast friend is good, too.
[ He reaches up to brush something off K's cheek. Flour? He leaves his hand raised to hold onto the back of K's neck, just enjoying the closeness without drawing him in again for the moment. ]
Would you believe-- [ Tech Boy pauses at the word to linger on it. God humor? ] that in all of my vast imagination, this is the kind of experimentation I'm in the mood for? [ He uses the hand not holding onto K to make a loop in the air with one finger, indicating their current circumstances. ] Domesticity. Who'd have thought?
Edited (...the one time I forget to preview my html...) 2020-09-30 21:41 (UTC)
[ The Sandygast proceeds to scoot around the floor, circling their feet and reaching up with its stubby arms, looking dismayed. You monsters, why won't anyone pick it up? And maybe feed it some delicious pizza life force?
Tech Boy's small gesture has K smiling. Since the start of this all those months ago, he's been careful to give the god his space whenever he wants it, and not impose on his time, just as he'd promised. He hasn't actually made any demands for Tech Boy's time or attention, aside from once indirectly asking if he could come over. And while asking for what he wants is something he needs to get better at — programmed subservience and not feeling as though he "deserves" it tend to complicate matters — it's also all the more significant to him when Tech Boy wants to spend time with him of his own accord.
They have gotten rather domestic, haven't they? ]
Is that what this is, an experiment? [ A real question veiled behind gentle teasing, as K tends to do. ] Is it strange not living alone?
[ He remembers Tech Boy describing how he got used to being alone, an implication that, combined with other things he's said over time, K assumed likely meant he's always been alone. Until now. ]
An experiment? No. Not really. [ but he does give that a moment of thought. ] Maybe a little. But only because that's what all of existence is. One big experiment. I like the result of this one though. Think I'll keep at it.
[ He leans in for another brush of lips. The smell of the pizza grows stronger as it cooks, and Tech Boy grins, thinking that he'd gotten so lucky. He lightly bites K's lower lip, then kisses again before drawing back a little to consider the next question. He's still gently holding on to the back of K's neck, so he doesn't withdraw very far. ]
It's strange. [ he agrees, but then pauses a couple of seconds to think again before he continues. ] It's strange to have someone here [ he taps K's chest with his free hand ] instead of here. [ he taps the side of his head. ] This is better. You're better. The best.
[ And then the Pokemon at his feet becomes more insistent, distracting him. Tech Boy raises one eyebrow at K and doesn't give the creature at his feet the satisfaction of a glance. ]
Your shiny sand wants to be picked up, or we're not going to get any peace.
[ K leans in to meet the kiss, smiling into it. ] I'm glad you think so. [ He slides one of his hands up from Tech Boy's hip to lightly pinch his side through his layers of clothing, playful "payback" for the bite. ] But kind of a shame if I'm never in your thoughts.
[ It's clearly a joke, because he knows that couldn't possibly be what Tech Boy meant — he just also isn't entirely certain of what he did mean by the gesture, as evidenced by the vaguely questioning look he's giving him. Referring to their non-physical connection? To normally only having the company of the network and internet?
Then the astute observation is met with raised eyebrows and his expression turning more teasing. ]
So why didn't you pick the baby up? [ Someone is being judged for his lack of parenting skills right now. ] It just wants some attention. Doesn't seem to like water, though.
[ Which is why K had put it down to begin with — he'd had to do the dishes. He bends down and easily collects the now noticeably happier Sandygast. Presumably by virtue of being a magical, possessed pile of sand, it maintains its shape without any extra effort on K's part to keep it together. ]
[ The questioning look is noted, even if K is also teasing him. ]
You're in my thoughts. All the time. But you're not in my HEAD. Right? Well. No. You can be in my head. You're welcome there any time. All the time. But you're not IN my head, you get? [ No, of course not. He huffs in a cross between embarrassment and mild frustration with himself. ] It's cool. This is better. The best. Like I said. I like reaching out and touching you. Here [ The hand on K's neck squeezes gently. ] and here. [ spoken directly into K's mind through their digital connection.
It's hard to explain what he really means without getting into an extended explanation that will definitely take longer than the time remaining before pizza is done. So he has to leave it at this for now. Clear as mud, as his speech sometimes is when he gets excited.
Tech Boy releases K so he can pick up the Pokemon, narrowing his eyes slightly at the interloper now happily taking up K's arms. Pets and children. This is why the god is fairly certain that he still needs some more practice at this. Being jealous in this instance is just silly.
It is cute though. ]
Yeah that makes sense it's weak to water. I would be too if I were made of sand.
[ He reaches out to pat the little creature again, cautiously. K being doting on the Sandygast is also really cute. ]
[ Much like the fussy child K compared it to, the Sandygast is immediately content just being held and becomes a bit melty in response to the petting. Apparently it's past the "teething" attempts. For K's part, he's more distracted considering Tech Boy's explanation. ]
No, I'm definitely not in your head. [ He eventually agrees. Then, wryly: ] If you were going to invent someone to keep you company in there, I don't think you'd invent me.
[ He hasn't minded carrying the sand monster everywhere with him, but he does kind of need his hands free for the pizza, since he'd rather Tech Boy not potentially burn himself getting it out on his own... Gesturing that he'll be back, K leaves the kitchen for a change of clothes. A couple minutes later he returns, wearing a hooded sweatshirt with the Sandygast riding in the hood; a makeshift baby sling. Voila.
It also leaves his hands free to pick up where they'd left off, and he reaches to tug Tech Boy in by his hips again. That little hint of what he thinks might've been jealousy wasn't lost on him. ] So it's a good kind of strange? And I do like when you touch me. And waking up to you. [ His tone softens. ] Having a life with you. I hope I'll get to keep you.
[ All things that go without saying — but are worth saying. He still has hope that they'll find a way to stay together even outside of this place. ]
[ Tech Boy makes a little scoffing sound, crossing his arms over his chest, but allows himself to be pulled in again. ]
The only reason I wouldn't invent you to live in my head is because how could I, a god, even hope to invent someone as complex and wonderful and thoughtful and badass and perfect as you. [ In another reality, he'd have to thank a version of his future self. ] You're more than the sum of your parts and beyond my wildest dreams.
You made me pizza. [ As if this was the most profound thing K's ever done. ] You are my dream. Even in a dream world. [ No electric sheep necessary. ] The future. Together.
It's the best kind of strange.
[ Somewhere in the bedroom, there's a small crash and a quiet sound that's almost a giggle. Tech Boy flinches slightly at the interruption, but doesn't turn. Instead he places his palms flat against K's chest with a completely content expression. ]
[ He raises his eyebrows at the crash, but if Tech Boy's going to ignore it — despite it sounding a lot like his tablet being knocked over — K will, too. At least for the moment, since he's more interested in giving Tech Boy a kiss as sweet as his words were. ]
And you're more than I ever could've hoped for. You're everything I want. [ He murmurs close to Tech Boy's lips, not quite done kissing him yet. Then, teasingly: ] Flattery may not get you everywhere, but it does get you pizza. [ An extra special pizza, no less, as he'll soon see.
The next interruption is harder to ignore because it's the oven timer dinging, and K reluctantly pulls away to turn it off and see to the pizza. As he's setting it on the stovetop to cool, there's the telltale sound of a bottle hitting the floor in the other room. Not glass, thankfully, but that also means there's a fair likelihood that lube could be spilling across the floor and potentially coating Tech Boy's tablet right now. By this point K gives up any pretense of ignoring the Gastly's bids for attention, huffing a laugh as he looks back to Tech Boy. ]
[ Although he does glance behind himself toward the direction of the commotion, Tech Boy gives a gently dismissive wave. Honestly, a spilled bottle and a drenched tablet is fair collateral damage if it means he could hang on to K for even a moment more. He can't even voice the threat over the mishap. Not even to tease. Animals and Pokémon are spared from the god's wrath (humans are not so lucky), even in the case of fatally lubricated electronics. But he would deal with that in a moment.
Tech Boy makes a little squeak of excitement and presses his fingers to his lips at the sight of the heart-shaped pizza. ] Perfection. What could I ever have done to deserve this treat?
[ He's been released to deal with the Gastly, but before he does, Tech Boy goes up on his toes (not that he really needs to) so he can give K another kiss. ] Can we give it a minute to cool while I deal with-- [ another soft thump. Tech Boy turns on his heels then heads back to the bedroom after the little ghost.
He's not gone long and returns with something flat (his tablet) wrapped in a towel. He doesn't look irritated; he looks resigned. The Gastly floats happily behind him, calm now. ]
Good question. You should consider what ulterior motives I may have.
[ It's teasing, of course, and K's clearly very pleased with the reaction his effort receives, even if he's anxious about whether or not it will pass the all-important taste test. Tech Boy has perhaps gotten better at masking his distaste in order to spare his feelings, like with jazz music, but a disappointing pizza may prove more challenging to pretend to enjoy...
The latter question is met with a thoughtful silence while K cuts the pizza, giving those words more consideration than they were probably meant to have, if the remark was only said in jest. It's another one of those things that a human might not think twice about, but... it hits a bit differently for an android who was manufactured, not born. Who's never had a family of any kind. ]
Do you think they can have pizza?
[ The Pokémon have seemed fine sharing other meals with them and even snacking on a few inedible items. The pizza probably can't hurt them, but it does need to cool a bit more first. K's smiling to himself as he sets the table with four plates (because the Pokémon eating on the floor is obviously unacceptable) and begins serving the pizza. ]
Is this what it is to have a family? [ The careful way he asks it is a good indication of how significant this is to him. ]
[ He's sort of massaging the tablet dry before he sets it aside, still wrapped in its towel, but he smiles at K with a teasing expression. ]
Whatever your ulterior motives, I accept without caveat. This is too good. I'll say yes to anything. [ and he does mean anything. ]
They eat everything else. I don't see why not. But [ to the Pokémon, for as much good as it will do ] not too much. This is for the grownups, and you're lucky I'm sharing. [ Points at eyes; points to Pokémon. ] Don't get greedy.
[ To the last comment, he looks up to K with a thoughtful expression on his face. He can hear the significance in the question, and it's another of those times that the god really wishes he was better at this important stuff. ]
Maybe. I've never really had "family". [ then cautiously, quietly, almost to himself ] Unless you count going to Denny's at 3am with Media, but that's work stuff. Hard to assign any real fondness to Denny's.
[ Tech Boy clears his throat. ] Yeah. I'd say we're on the right path. Off to a good start. Even without the ghost children. If family is where your heart is then, well-- [ He looks down at the shape of the pizza, and it makes him grin. ] You're my heart.
[ That promise of saying yes to anything does have the proverbial gears in K's mind turning, but for now he only answers with a smile.
It's interesting to hear Tech Boy mentioning another god without derision, since he's been under the impression the technology god really didn't care for any of the others. But being work colleagues is a far cry from being family, at least to K's understanding. He certainly wouldn't consider any of his own work colleagues here or in his homeworld family. Though something in Tech Boy's tone makes him curious to know more about Media.
He deposits the Sandygast on the table next to one of the plates, fussing over the Pokémon (who are both far more interested in the pizza than paying much mind to Tech Boy's warning) while mulling things over. ]
I think... being someone's family implies permanence. [ As much permanence as anything in this life can have. On a different level than being romantically involved with someone, he thinks, without being mutually exclusive concepts. He pulls out a chair for Tech Boy, waiting for him to be seated first before taking his own. ]
I'd like to be your family. [ Spoken quietly as he directs a soft look of fondness at Tech Boy. ] Because you're my heart, too. [ It isn't a new desire, it's just the first time he's put it into words; a continuation of their prior conversation about the possibility of one day having children together. Which they sort of do, now. ]
[ Even though Tech Boy did just casually mention Media, if K were to ask about her, the derision would return to his tone immediately. Their relationship had been complicated even at the best of times, and the technology god would be holding a grudge against her for quite a while for New Media's part in his demise. But it had been his only prior experience point of reference when K had said "family"... which spoke volumes about things, actually. Complicated volumes with lots of chapters.
But he's not thinking about that right now. He would much rather hear K's thoughts than dwell uncomfortably on his own. He can brood about this later. This is a good night, and he'd determined to keep it that way. His expression never falters, radiating his happiness at his beloved.
He smiles at the offered chair, lip curling with amusement. ]
Such a gentleman.
[ He's teasing, but it's another of those things that literally no one has ever done for him before. He would be blushing if he could, but he lets that *blush* emotion free for K to feel. The god is terribly flattered by all of this. But not even as a god. As a man. As someone who is loved. His someone special cooked for him and has pulled out his chair, waiting to sit once the god has been seated. It's surreal in all the best ways. ]
Permanence. Hearts bound to each other. That's a good way to look at it. I like that. It's like. We could be anywhere. But if we're together it's fine because I still have a home with you. And you do with me. Family.
[ Tech Boy reaches out to take K's hand, threading their fingers together. He'll take the seat that K pulled out for him, but he's not letting go of K's hand yet. ]
[ Unfortunately for both of them, K does intend to ask after Media. Just not quite yet. This shared moment is more important.
The emotion that he can feel from Tech Boy has him compensating for the god's inability to blush with a faint one of his own, heat rising to his face as he momentarily ducks his head, smiling all the while. Family. Home. Things neither of them had until they found it in each other. Tech Boy has had considerably more life experience than him in other ways, an occasional source of concern for him, so it feels particularly good being equals in this.
K genuinely hadn't been expecting anything in return for the meal, but when Tech Boy takes his hand, the perfect "ulterior motive" occurs to him. Something he's wanted for a while now. Before Tech Boy takes his seat, K's gently pulling him away from the table and reaching for his waist with his other hand. ]
Darling. Dance with me. [ Does he know how? It should be clear from context K isn't referring to the sort of dancing one does at a rave. He tilts his head thoughtfully, suggesting: ] You can stand on my feet if you want. You said anything — so dance with me.
[ Startled, but not unpleasantly so, Tech Boy opens his mouth and closes it as he is briefly at a loss. While he really did fully intend to give K anything he wanted, pizza or no pizza, this isn't quite what he'd been expecting. He should have expected it, K being the romantic that he is, but it's also pretty nice that the god's inexperience with that sort of thing means K can still surprise him. All of this has been the best kind of surprise.
He grins but plays mock offense at the suggestion he needs to stand on K's feet. ] I'll have you know I used to cut a rug with the best of them. [ He pokes K in the chest with his free hand for emphasis. His choice of that old fashioned idiom is pretty indicative of the last time he really did any dancing of the sort K is requesting, and he's trying to remember if he still knows how. Some of that long-term archived memory is a bit dusty. ] The. Best.
[ He goes up on his toes to bring himself the few inches needed to properly match K's height, still comfortably in the circle of his beloved's arms. His eyes narrow, but it's a playful expression. ]
Of course I will. [ He arcs an eyebrow. ] Think the pizza will still be here after we do?
[ The idiom just has K smiling all the more, amused to hear such a quaint phrase coming from Tech Boy. He has an inkling it's been a fair while since the god's danced like this, but refrains from teasing him. Yet. ]
Did you. [ He sounds delighted by this information. ] Then you won't mind if I stand on yours?
[ K's only prior experience has been pantomiming dancing with a hologram AI partner; she helped teach him. But he's reasonably certain he can adapt that knowledge for dancing with a physical partner without much issue. Time to find out. Straightening his already perfect posture just that little bit more to show that he's serious, he pulls Tech Boy in closer and holds him there for a moment, then begins leading him in a simple slow dance across the kitchen, taking care not to actually step on his feet. It will give them both a chance to get a feel for each other before attempting anything more complex — if they do. K's entirely content dancing like this. ]
There's enough ingredients left to make another, don't worry. You used to like dancing?
[ The Sandygast has an entire slice of pizza in its mouth with its eyes closed in apparent contentment as it... absorbs the pizza's energy? After their dance K will cut it into smaller bite-sized pieces for the Pokémon, but at least the rest of the pizza is probably safe. Unless the Gastly decides to get bratty... ]
[ With the best of them and not one of the best of them is an important distinction to make here, and it's one that Tech Boy is not making. Dancing is a frequently intimate and generally social activity, and it's not something the technology god has made a lot of time for in his life. Some. But not a lot. And not like this. But he can at least avoid stepping on feet. ]
Over the years, there were a lot of opportunities to do business in clubs, and knowing how to dance in those places is a part of making a good faith effort. Started to look forward to those meeting after a while. Really it depends on the music.
[ Allowing K to lead is something else he's not going to bring to any attention (yet), but in the interest of being wooed and staying close and comfortable in K's arms, he'll consent to following. Following in dance also requires a certain degree of skill, and how gorgeous does K look with that content expression on his face? <3
There's a faint muffled angry technology noise as Tech Boy rouses his spoiled tablet from sleep. After a moment's consideration, a song starts playing. ]
[ It makes a lonely sort of sense that dancing would merely be a means to an end for a god of technology, with everything that K has learnt about him and his prior life. K's own reasons for wanting to learn weren't so different — it had been among the several ways he would play at being a person. Pretending to be something other than what he was for a little while, strictly in private, away from the prying eyes and invasive tests of humans that would have deemed him defective for even harbouring the desire.
But it is an activity he's come to genuinely enjoy for its own merits, and being able to fully experience it for the first time with Tech Boy makes it that much more meaningful to him. More than contentment, he's practically radiating happiness when the music begins to play, touched by the thoughtful gesture and choice of song both. ]
It's perfect. [ The music, this moment...
He'd taken the role of leading without much thought because he'd been the one to initiate the dance. And it might be apparent he isn't very practised when it comes to having a partner with a physical body, but he quickly catches on to indicating his intentions with light, guiding touches to Tech Boy's lower back so they can move together more easily. When it occurs to him that this might likely be a role reversal to Tech Boy, K leans in and brushes a kiss to his lips, lingering with a soft smile. This is just as nice as the dance. ] Would you like a turn? [ He suggests, gently squeezing Tech Boy's hand. He's willing to be led, too. ]
[ Honestly, the fact that K had thought to ask about switching the lead is nearly enough for Tech Boy to decline. This offer in deference to the god's ego soothes whatever ruffled thought had been in his mind about the situation, and he is pleased. Greatly so. He mirrors K's soft smile after the kiss. This really is nice. Why hadn't they thought of this sooner? It's his own fault.
On the other hand, although K does catch on quickly, if they switched, would he benefit from following the god's example? Tech Boy isn't exactly the most adept himself when it comes to slow dancing (way too much close physical contact usually), but there are lots of subtleties he's learned that come from years of practice. There's confidence, if not skill. Knowledge of certain combinations of movements that flow well from one to another. It will actually be interesting to see just how much of that memory has been retained after so many upgrades throughout the years. Hopefully enough.
So with a brief expression of concentration, he accepts the offer to switch hand positions. He takes the lead, drawing K in a little closer. Despite himself, Tech Boy hums a little along to the music for a few bars (wherein it becomes apparent that while he can compose, the god cannot carry a tune vocally). This closeness and affection is relaxing, he does admit. And if he gets bold, maybe he'll even give K a little spin. ]
[ Switching roles is an adjustment on par with having a physical partner for the first time — K isn't entirely sure what to expect but he's happy to oblige. He does so easily enough, shifting his free hand higher up to rest against Tech Boy's shoulder, doing his best to follow now (and trying to keep his eyes on his partner's face rather than their feet); his steps are light and he moves with a grace one probably wouldn't expect from a robot of his designed purpose.
There's a sense that Tech Boy is perhaps attempting to impart his wisdom and expertise, and while K had hoped the nature of his prior experience wouldn't put him at too obvious a disadvantage and they could share this dance more as equals, he still appreciates the thoughtfulness of the gesture and his adoring expression never falters. When it comes to Tech Boy, he likes being shown off to, that has never changed. That Tech Boy has been willing to indulge him at all is already more than he could've asked for, really, and having the patience to give him some pointers on top of that is sweet. It gives him hope that this could happen again. Why else go to the trouble of helping him improve?
His hand slips a little higher to curl against the nape of Tech Boy's neck as he inclines his head, leaning closer to murmur: ] You're really good at this. [ His tone takes on a teasing edge. ] Seems that alleged correlation between being a good dancer and a good lover is true.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
brandnewtech) wrote2019-09-29 05:00 am
[action]
The pizza is in the oven and K's in the process of cleaning up when Tech Boy reappears. Pausing what he's doing, K turns to greet him with a smile and gestures to the counter where there's a katydid brooch, a circuitry keychain, and a patch, along with Martin's letter explaining their purpose. ]
One of those is for you. From Sims's boyfriend, Martin. I believe you met him on the network.
no subject
If the Technical Boy was the type of god to have saints, K would be chief among them. He's terribly fond.
He returns the smile readily, giving K his full attention before his constantly active mind is distracted by the objects on the counter. Picking up the letter (how old fashioned, a hand written note), he scans it quickly with a curious furrow of his brow. ]
I did meet Martin briefly. This is an interesting peace offering.
[ He loops his fingers through the ring of the offered key chain then strokes the back of the little brooch with a fingertip. ]
A kadydid. That's cute.
[ Tech Boy reaches out to take hold of K's waistband, just hanging on for now. ]
And what have you been up to?
assuming they have their pokemon by this point?
It's a nickname he gave me when he couldn't remember my serial number.
[ An actual nickname. The only one he's been given, other than the practical shortening of his serial number to "K" — unless terms of endearment count as nicknames, too? Either way, it's significant to him for reasons he probably doesn't have to explain to Tech Boy, and so the katydid brooch is... strangely sentimental to him, too, more than Martin could probably know.
When Tech Boy gets closer, the amorphous pile of black sand that's been gathered on K's feet moves to collect on Tech Boy's too, investigating him. K also flicks some soap bubbles at him. ]
Experimenting. [ With an unnecessary nod toward the oven; the telltale smell of pizza gives away some of the surprise. ] Hopefully you'll like it. ...Hopefully it's edible. How was work?
yep! pokemons!
K and his patience with the irrational god. Saint K. What ever could Tech Boy give in return? He has an idea about that. ]
Oh, I like experimenting. [ He makes an obvious show of inhaling pizza smell, but the lopsided grin that follow implies another meaning, too. ] I'm sure I'll like it.
[ He bends down a little to offer his hand to the black sand like someone might offer to a dog, still holding on to K with his other hand. This is one of the new types of Pokemon, and Tech Boy isn't really sure how shiny amorphous piles of sand usually greet pseudo-strangers. They're still getting used to one another. ]
Work continues to be unsuccessful. This fucking network feels like wading through, well, sand. No offense. But there's no point in dwelling on it. [ Personal growth? ] Not when you've been in here working so hard.
no subject
[ How the Sandygast greets people is soon answered when its mouth suddenly expands and it engulfs the offered hand. Which doesn't hurt, given how fine and soft the sand that comprises its body is, though the pressure might be uncomfortable. Tech Boy is perhaps too big to be prey (outside of being on a beach), and too divine to be easily controlled, so after a couple minutes it releases him and shifts onto his hand instead, wanting to be picked up. Hello, new friend.
K, meanwhile, has been finishing up the dishes and dries his hands on a dishcloth before turning back to face Tech Boy, leaning against the counter. ]
Looks like you passed the taste test. [ He notes, sounding amused. Had there been any real threat, he would have of course intervened; he's just glad his little sand monster seems to like Tech Boy. ]
Sorry the network's still giving you so much trouble. [ Taking Tech Boy by the hips, K pulls him closer and leans in, closing the remaining distance between them to brush their lips together. He can help with the not-dwelling part, at least. ] Have an experiment of your own in mind?
no subject
So how exactly does one pick up a pile of sand? That's clearly what it wants. Tech Boy kind of awkwardly pats it on the top of it's head(?) for now, as he instead allows himself to be pulled over by the hips. The kiss gently soft resets Tech Boy's thoughts. K's good at that. ]
I'd be more worried if I didn't pass your taste test. But approval from your Sandygast friend is good, too.
[ He reaches up to brush something off K's cheek. Flour? He leaves his hand raised to hold onto the back of K's neck, just enjoying the closeness without drawing him in again for the moment. ]
Would you believe-- [ Tech Boy pauses at the word to linger on it. God humor? ] that in all of my vast imagination, this is the kind of experimentation I'm in the mood for? [ He uses the hand not holding onto K to make a loop in the air with one finger, indicating their current circumstances. ] Domesticity. Who'd have thought?
no subject
Tech Boy's small gesture has K smiling. Since the start of this all those months ago, he's been careful to give the god his space whenever he wants it, and not impose on his time, just as he'd promised. He hasn't actually made any demands for Tech Boy's time or attention, aside from once indirectly asking if he could come over. And while asking for what he wants is something he needs to get better at — programmed subservience and not feeling as though he "deserves" it tend to complicate matters — it's also all the more significant to him when Tech Boy wants to spend time with him of his own accord.
They have gotten rather domestic, haven't they? ]
Is that what this is, an experiment? [ A real question veiled behind gentle teasing, as K tends to do. ] Is it strange not living alone?
[ He remembers Tech Boy describing how he got used to being alone, an implication that, combined with other things he's said over time, K assumed likely meant he's always been alone. Until now. ]
no subject
[ He leans in for another brush of lips. The smell of the pizza grows stronger as it cooks, and Tech Boy grins, thinking that he'd gotten so lucky. He lightly bites K's lower lip, then kisses again before drawing back a little to consider the next question. He's still gently holding on to the back of K's neck, so he doesn't withdraw very far. ]
It's strange. [ he agrees, but then pauses a couple of seconds to think again before he continues. ] It's strange to have someone here [ he taps K's chest with his free hand ] instead of here. [ he taps the side of his head. ] This is better. You're better. The best.
[ And then the Pokemon at his feet becomes more insistent, distracting him. Tech Boy raises one eyebrow at K and doesn't give the creature at his feet the satisfaction of a glance. ]
Your shiny sand wants to be picked up, or we're not going to get any peace.
no subject
[ It's clearly a joke, because he knows that couldn't possibly be what Tech Boy meant — he just also isn't entirely certain of what he did mean by the gesture, as evidenced by the vaguely questioning look he's giving him. Referring to their non-physical connection? To normally only having the company of the network and internet?
Then the astute observation is met with raised eyebrows and his expression turning more teasing. ]
So why didn't you pick the baby up? [ Someone is being judged for his lack of parenting skills right now. ] It just wants some attention. Doesn't seem to like water, though.
[ Which is why K had put it down to begin with — he'd had to do the dishes. He bends down and easily collects the now noticeably happier Sandygast. Presumably by virtue of being a magical, possessed pile of sand, it maintains its shape without any extra effort on K's part to keep it together. ]
no subject
You're in my thoughts. All the time. But you're not in my HEAD. Right? Well. No. You can be in my head. You're welcome there any time. All the time. But you're not IN my head, you get? [ No, of course not. He huffs in a cross between embarrassment and mild frustration with himself. ] It's cool. This is better. The best. Like I said. I like reaching out and touching you. Here [ The hand on K's neck squeezes gently. ] and here. [ spoken directly into K's mind through their digital connection.
It's hard to explain what he really means without getting into an extended explanation that will definitely take longer than the time remaining before pizza is done. So he has to leave it at this for now. Clear as mud, as his speech sometimes is when he gets excited.
Tech Boy releases K so he can pick up the Pokemon, narrowing his eyes slightly at the interloper now happily taking up K's arms. Pets and children. This is why the god is fairly certain that he still needs some more practice at this. Being jealous in this instance is just silly.
It is cute though. ]
Yeah that makes sense it's weak to water. I would be too if I were made of sand.
[ He reaches out to pat the little creature again, cautiously. K being doting on the Sandygast is also really cute. ]
no subject
No, I'm definitely not in your head. [ He eventually agrees. Then, wryly: ] If you were going to invent someone to keep you company in there, I don't think you'd invent me.
[ He hasn't minded carrying the sand monster everywhere with him, but he does kind of need his hands free for the pizza, since he'd rather Tech Boy not potentially burn himself getting it out on his own... Gesturing that he'll be back, K leaves the kitchen for a change of clothes. A couple minutes later he returns, wearing a hooded sweatshirt with the Sandygast riding in the hood; a makeshift baby sling. Voila.
It also leaves his hands free to pick up where they'd left off, and he reaches to tug Tech Boy in by his hips again. That little hint of what he thinks might've been jealousy wasn't lost on him. ] So it's a good kind of strange? And I do like when you touch me. And waking up to you. [ His tone softens. ] Having a life with you. I hope I'll get to keep you.
[ All things that go without saying — but are worth saying. He still has hope that they'll find a way to stay together even outside of this place. ]
no subject
The only reason I wouldn't invent you to live in my head is because how could I, a god, even hope to invent someone as complex and wonderful and thoughtful and badass and perfect as you. [ In another reality, he'd have to thank a version of his future self. ] You're more than the sum of your parts and beyond my wildest dreams.
You made me pizza. [ As if this was the most profound thing K's ever done. ] You are my dream. Even in a dream world. [ No electric sheep necessary. ] The future. Together.
It's the best kind of strange.
[ Somewhere in the bedroom, there's a small crash and a quiet sound that's almost a giggle. Tech Boy flinches slightly at the interruption, but doesn't turn. Instead he places his palms flat against K's chest with a completely content expression. ]
no subject
And you're more than I ever could've hoped for. You're everything I want. [ He murmurs close to Tech Boy's lips, not quite done kissing him yet. Then, teasingly: ] Flattery may not get you everywhere, but it does get you pizza. [ An extra special pizza, no less, as he'll soon see.
The next interruption is harder to ignore because it's the oven timer dinging, and K reluctantly pulls away to turn it off and see to the pizza. As he's setting it on the stovetop to cool, there's the telltale sound of a bottle hitting the floor in the other room. Not glass, thankfully, but that also means there's a fair likelihood that lube could be spilling across the floor and potentially coating Tech Boy's tablet right now. By this point K gives up any pretense of ignoring the Gastly's bids for attention, huffing a laugh as he looks back to Tech Boy. ]
I think someone else has missed you, too.
no subject
Tech Boy makes a little squeak of excitement and presses his fingers to his lips at the sight of the heart-shaped pizza. ] Perfection. What could I ever have done to deserve this treat?
[ He's been released to deal with the Gastly, but before he does, Tech Boy goes up on his toes (not that he really needs to) so he can give K another kiss. ] Can we give it a minute to cool while I deal with-- [ another soft thump. Tech Boy turns on his heels then heads back to the bedroom after the little ghost.
He's not gone long and returns with something flat (his tablet) wrapped in a towel. He doesn't look irritated; he looks resigned. The Gastly floats happily behind him, calm now. ]
Family dinner?
no subject
[ It's teasing, of course, and K's clearly very pleased with the reaction his effort receives, even if he's anxious about whether or not it will pass the all-important taste test. Tech Boy has perhaps gotten better at masking his distaste in order to spare his feelings, like with jazz music, but a disappointing pizza may prove more challenging to pretend to enjoy...
The latter question is met with a thoughtful silence while K cuts the pizza, giving those words more consideration than they were probably meant to have, if the remark was only said in jest. It's another one of those things that a human might not think twice about, but... it hits a bit differently for an android who was manufactured, not born. Who's never had a family of any kind. ]
Do you think they can have pizza?
[ The Pokémon have seemed fine sharing other meals with them and even snacking on a few inedible items. The pizza probably can't hurt them, but it does need to cool a bit more first. K's smiling to himself as he sets the table with four plates (because the Pokémon eating on the floor is obviously unacceptable) and begins serving the pizza. ]
Is this what it is to have a family? [ The careful way he asks it is a good indication of how significant this is to him. ]
no subject
Whatever your ulterior motives, I accept without caveat. This is too good. I'll say yes to anything. [ and he does mean anything. ]
They eat everything else. I don't see why not. But [ to the Pokémon, for as much good as it will do ] not too much. This is for the grownups, and you're lucky I'm sharing. [ Points at eyes; points to Pokémon. ] Don't get greedy.
[ To the last comment, he looks up to K with a thoughtful expression on his face. He can hear the significance in the question, and it's another of those times that the god really wishes he was better at this important stuff. ]
Maybe. I've never really had "family". [ then cautiously, quietly, almost to himself ] Unless you count going to Denny's at 3am with Media, but that's work stuff. Hard to assign any real fondness to Denny's.
[ Tech Boy clears his throat. ] Yeah. I'd say we're on the right path. Off to a good start. Even without the ghost children. If family is where your heart is then, well-- [ He looks down at the shape of the pizza, and it makes him grin. ] You're my heart.
no subject
It's interesting to hear Tech Boy mentioning another god without derision, since he's been under the impression the technology god really didn't care for any of the others. But being work colleagues is a far cry from being family, at least to K's understanding. He certainly wouldn't consider any of his own work colleagues here or in his homeworld family. Though something in Tech Boy's tone makes him curious to know more about Media.
He deposits the Sandygast on the table next to one of the plates, fussing over the Pokémon (who are both far more interested in the pizza than paying much mind to Tech Boy's warning) while mulling things over. ]
I think... being someone's family implies permanence. [ As much permanence as anything in this life can have. On a different level than being romantically involved with someone, he thinks, without being mutually exclusive concepts. He pulls out a chair for Tech Boy, waiting for him to be seated first before taking his own. ]
I'd like to be your family. [ Spoken quietly as he directs a soft look of fondness at Tech Boy. ] Because you're my heart, too. [ It isn't a new desire, it's just the first time he's put it into words; a continuation of their prior conversation about the possibility of one day having children together. Which they sort of do, now. ]
no subject
But he's not thinking about that right now. He would much rather hear K's thoughts than dwell uncomfortably on his own. He can brood about this later. This is a good night, and he'd determined to keep it that way. His expression never falters, radiating his happiness at his beloved.
He smiles at the offered chair, lip curling with amusement. ]
Such a gentleman.
[ He's teasing, but it's another of those things that literally no one has ever done for him before. He would be blushing if he could, but he lets that *blush* emotion free for K to feel. The god is terribly flattered by all of this. But not even as a god. As a man. As someone who is loved. His someone special cooked for him and has pulled out his chair, waiting to sit once the god has been seated. It's surreal in all the best ways. ]
Permanence. Hearts bound to each other. That's a good way to look at it. I like that. It's like. We could be anywhere. But if we're together it's fine because I still have a home with you. And you do with me. Family.
[ Tech Boy reaches out to take K's hand, threading their fingers together. He'll take the seat that K pulled out for him, but he's not letting go of K's hand yet. ]
no subject
The emotion that he can feel from Tech Boy has him compensating for the god's inability to blush with a faint one of his own, heat rising to his face as he momentarily ducks his head, smiling all the while. Family. Home. Things neither of them had until they found it in each other. Tech Boy has had considerably more life experience than him in other ways, an occasional source of concern for him, so it feels particularly good being equals in this.
K genuinely hadn't been expecting anything in return for the meal, but when Tech Boy takes his hand, the perfect "ulterior motive" occurs to him. Something he's wanted for a while now. Before Tech Boy takes his seat, K's gently pulling him away from the table and reaching for his waist with his other hand. ]
Darling. Dance with me. [ Does he know how? It should be clear from context K isn't referring to the sort of dancing one does at a rave. He tilts his head thoughtfully, suggesting: ] You can stand on my feet if you want. You said anything — so dance with me.
no subject
He grins but plays mock offense at the suggestion he needs to stand on K's feet. ] I'll have you know I used to cut a rug with the best of them. [ He pokes K in the chest with his free hand for emphasis. His choice of that old fashioned idiom is pretty indicative of the last time he really did any dancing of the sort K is requesting, and he's trying to remember if he still knows how. Some of that long-term archived memory is a bit dusty. ] The. Best.
[ He goes up on his toes to bring himself the few inches needed to properly match K's height, still comfortably in the circle of his beloved's arms. His eyes narrow, but it's a playful expression. ]
Of course I will. [ He arcs an eyebrow. ] Think the pizza will still be here after we do?
no subject
Did you. [ He sounds delighted by this information. ] Then you won't mind if I stand on yours?
[ K's only prior experience has been pantomiming dancing with a hologram AI partner; she helped teach him. But he's reasonably certain he can adapt that knowledge for dancing with a physical partner without much issue. Time to find out. Straightening his already perfect posture just that little bit more to show that he's serious, he pulls Tech Boy in closer and holds him there for a moment, then begins leading him in a simple slow dance across the kitchen, taking care not to actually step on his feet. It will give them both a chance to get a feel for each other before attempting anything more complex — if they do. K's entirely content dancing like this. ]
There's enough ingredients left to make another, don't worry. You used to like dancing?
[ The Sandygast has an entire slice of pizza in its mouth with its eyes closed in apparent contentment as it... absorbs the pizza's energy? After their dance K will cut it into smaller bite-sized pieces for the Pokémon, but at least the rest of the pizza is probably safe. Unless the Gastly decides to get bratty... ]
no subject
Over the years, there were a lot of opportunities to do business in clubs, and knowing how to dance in those places is a part of making a good faith effort. Started to look forward to those meeting after a while. Really it depends on the music.
[ Allowing K to lead is something else he's not going to bring to any attention (yet), but in the interest of being wooed and staying close and comfortable in K's arms, he'll consent to following. Following in dance also requires a certain degree of skill, and how gorgeous does K look with that content expression on his face? <3
There's a faint muffled angry technology noise as Tech Boy rouses his spoiled tablet from sleep. After a moment's consideration, a song starts playing. ]
no subject
But it is an activity he's come to genuinely enjoy for its own merits, and being able to fully experience it for the first time with Tech Boy makes it that much more meaningful to him. More than contentment, he's practically radiating happiness when the music begins to play, touched by the thoughtful gesture and choice of song both. ]
It's perfect. [ The music, this moment...
He'd taken the role of leading without much thought because he'd been the one to initiate the dance. And it might be apparent he isn't very practised when it comes to having a partner with a physical body, but he quickly catches on to indicating his intentions with light, guiding touches to Tech Boy's lower back so they can move together more easily. When it occurs to him that this might likely be a role reversal to Tech Boy, K leans in and brushes a kiss to his lips, lingering with a soft smile. This is just as nice as the dance. ] Would you like a turn? [ He suggests, gently squeezing Tech Boy's hand. He's willing to be led, too. ]
no subject
It's his own fault.On the other hand, although K does catch on quickly, if they switched, would he benefit from following the god's example? Tech Boy isn't exactly the most adept himself when it comes to slow dancing (way too much close physical contact usually), but there are lots of subtleties he's learned that come from years of practice. There's confidence, if not skill. Knowledge of certain combinations of movements that flow well from one to another. It will actually be interesting to see just how much of that memory has been retained after so many upgrades throughout the years. Hopefully enough.
So with a brief expression of concentration, he accepts the offer to switch hand positions. He takes the lead, drawing K in a little closer. Despite himself, Tech Boy hums a little along to the music for a few bars (wherein it becomes apparent that while he can compose, the god cannot carry a tune vocally). This closeness and affection is relaxing, he does admit. And if he gets bold, maybe he'll even give K a little spin. ]
no subject
There's a sense that Tech Boy is perhaps attempting to impart his wisdom and expertise, and while K had hoped the nature of his prior experience wouldn't put him at too obvious a disadvantage and they could share this dance more as equals, he still appreciates the thoughtfulness of the gesture and his adoring expression never falters. When it comes to Tech Boy, he likes being shown off to, that has never changed. That Tech Boy has been willing to indulge him at all is already more than he could've asked for, really, and having the patience to give him some pointers on top of that is sweet. It gives him hope that this could happen again. Why else go to the trouble of helping him improve?
His hand slips a little higher to curl against the nape of Tech Boy's neck as he inclines his head, leaning closer to murmur: ] You're really good at this. [ His tone takes on a teasing edge. ] Seems that alleged correlation between being a good dancer and a good lover is true.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)