I did warn you that I was fond of disco pop; you have no excuse now, I'm afraid.
[Cue shiteating grin over the rim of his cup, before he sips properly like a real boy. The slowly-building confidence is quickly tamped down when it comes time to get to the real meat of this tea date, though, and he puts the cup back down on the table to better listen.
The girls have no respect for conversational procedure, though; one hops back up on the couch between them, mash speckled on her beak as she tries to wiggle her way onto Avdol's lap.] Mm, I figured as much. ...Take your time, alright? I know this sort of thing is never easy to get out, but I have nowhere else to be, nor anywhere else I'd rather be.
And here. [Abbacchio now has one (1) chicken, Prince to be specific, placed carefully on his lap instead.] Scratch under the ruff on her neck.
[Hesitantly, he follows as indicated, scratching under Prince's rough. Light and easy so she doesn't get startled. Honestly, he wasn't expecting such friendly chickens.]
...Ever since I was a kid, it was my dream to be a police officer. Really help people who needed it. [It was naive and unrealistic and stupid.] My partner was a good man, knew exactly who he wanted to be too. We got through academy together.
I learned the hard way that things weren't so easy; the veterans on the force didn't give a shit about people's real problems and ate out of the pocket of criminals. You put away a guy one day, he's back out on the streets the next day. That kind of thing. It wasn't ever enough. Florentino used to say that I needed to be patient. He was always stronger than me.
I let it get to me. My resolve wasn't as strong as his, and I started taking bribes. So the last guy I took a bribe from murdered a store clerk. I caught him at the scene, but he recognized me. I froze up.
My partner came in and took the bullet meant for me. He died, the thug lived and ratted me out. Not that I'd have stayed on the force after that.
That's the kind of guy I am. I'm fucking worthless, especially without someone to follow. I don't have any strength for myself, and I got a good man killed. And I'm alive now when I definitely don't fucking deserve it.
[That's...Yeah, it's a lot to take in. Not that it changes Avdol's feelings one bit, since he can absolutely imagine what it would've been like, the pressure, the inescapable corruption, how easy it would've been for a rookie to justify it all. But a life is still a life, and it's one that clearly meant a lot to Abbacchio at that.
Humming through his nose in thought, Avdol looks at Prince, who is completely content and starting to try and tuck her head under her wing without pushing That Really Nice Hand away, then up to the owner of said hand.]
I'm still going to the musical with you.
[One sip of tea, before he leans back-- and Michael and Lionel are on his lap then, jockeying for prime position, but whatever. This is serious, he's not letting chickenfesta take away from that!!] A hypothetical. A child causes a housefire through their own actions, without thinking of the consequences of playing with fire. While they get out relatively unharmed, their parents are burned badly, and a majority of their property is destroyed.
Although the child never wanted for their parents to be hurt and for everything to be lost, they were still doing something they knew they shouldn't, and so could absolutely be held accountable for the fire, for the irreversible harm they caused to people they loved. Would you write them off completely?
[Honestly, he isn't sure what he wanted to expect. In his heart, he had a feeling that Avdol would be understanding, would refuse to reject him. Maybe that's what he wanted, too, for Avdol to not turn his back on him, but he also deserved to know the worst part of Abbacchio.
He wants to say that it's different with the both of them -- but this is also how Avdol is relating to him. Sharing his own past troubles. The struggle, no doubt, of someone born with a Stand.]
No. I wouldn't.
[Especially not a kid, but it doesn't hurt that he grew up into a good man.]
It was hard, wasn't it. Magician's Red was born when you were. And they couldn't see him.
Life is hard, Leone. Life is awful. I know that I'll never know exactly how it feels to bear this cross, but...
If you wouldn't turn me away, then I won't leave you either. I wouldn't have even if I didn't have the slightest inkling of how you might feel, to be honest. [His gaze drops to Prince then, smile tugging at his lips, and he shrugs.] You know, chickens are excellent judges of character? They have to be, being prey animals.
I think that they can see in you what I do, though. That you're the sum of all of your actions, not just a select few. Just like I am.
I try not to think about just my problems. Just that I'm the kind of asshole who's his own undoing. ...But I appreciate you understanding me.
[There are other things. He makes bad choices, he's part of the mafia even after death, he's barely a recovering alcoholic -- but if Avdol is able to take him at his worst, then everything else probably hardly matters as much.
He looks down at Prince, who definitely has gotten comfortable on his lap. It's kind of cute what the fuck. These ladies are so pure.]
Reimi said something similar once. Being more than just your trauma and mistakes. [And who else gets trauma like poor Reimi Sugimoto?]
...I like you a lot, Mohammed. For a long time, I only felt calm around one person, like the world only made sense around him, otherwise it was just a fucking mess. Then I got close with Reimi. And I feel that way about you too.
So. I'd really like to go to a musical or whatever the hell we end up doing. Because it's you.
The appreciation's mutual, for what it's worth. As is, apparently, the assholism. I can't believe we're both assholes. But then, isn't the saying that girls like bad boys? Maybe that explains our current predicament some.
[Avdol almost reaches over to give Prince a little scratch, but her sisters start protesting juuuuust loudly enough that he thinks better of it and continues doting on them instead. He's just about to comment on their tea probably going a little cold by now and isn't Reimi wise beyond her years, she's really something else, but
ouch fuck ow okay, just beat the fuck out of his feelings why don't you??? Keep it cool Mohammed, don't be a fucking weenie, it's fine, this is what your image has been perfectly sculpted to result in--]
I-- Ah. [Words, asshole!] ...I don't think I can actually say how hearing that makes me feel, hah. [Close enough.] That is-- You already mean so much to me. I guessed when I saw you make that glass rose that you were someone special, but...Mm.
[Gently, he deposits his two passengers on the floor; they're not happy about it whatsoever and try to jostle Abbacchio's feet for affection instead, but too bad so sad, because he's getting in there first with a hug. A non-Prince-crushing one, thankfully, but a hug all the same.] I'm glad you told me to figure out what I want, so that I could understand a little better just how special you are to me.
Yeah, you can be a bit of a bastard. [But he doesn't mind it. Honestly, he likes it in Avdol, that he gives it back and doesn't just take it. It's true that he accuses him of being too nice -- and sometimes he still feels that's true -- but it's not like Avdol lets anyone walk all over him either.]
Moody Blues just plays back what already happened. Not like I picked the rose or anything. [Which-- hey. He still hasn't given that to anyone. There's a thought, but maybe for later. If things work out okay.
There's a pause, and he leans into the hug, closing his eyes. He still has no idea how he expected this to go, but at least the biggest part is left open now, the worst of him.
.................Okay wait a second.]
I didn't...
[]
Fucking hell, you asked that question. [And honestly he's just surprised he didn't figure it out because he could pick up on everyone else what the hell. Abbacchio really can't help but laugh.] Asshole. And what the hell are you doing being so worried about how you look, then?
Oho! I've managed Asshole and Bastard status in one fell swoop! I'll have to get that embroidered on my headband as a mark of pride. ...I'm sorry I made you answer a question about yourself, though. I thought that your perspective would be the most important one, is all.
[He's so proud of himself, too. Big grin and all, even as he has to answer to his self-deprecation. Call that the effects of a really, really good hug. ...Which he has to break, just a little, to sit down properly again, albeit hip to hip with an arm still draped around Abbacchio's hips.] I don't know if you've seen a mirror recently, though? I know I'm not ugly because I have seen ugly in my life, but you're on about ten other levels of attractive. I know that it doesn't matter between us, but I don't want people to think you're not dating to your full potential.
Or I didn't want them to think that. Now that it's actually a thing, I don't actually care what other people think of us having a good time together, and I don't think that you do either, so right now I'm not particularly worried about it. Not when I could worry about actual practical things like what to wear, and whether I should put my hair up or leave it out, and maybe whether you'll let me put an arm around your shoulders while we're watching the musical.
Maybe, if I behave myself, you might let me give you a goodnight kiss. I'm really aiming for that, to be honest.
Yeah yeah, you're a sneaky prick. Don't get too proud. [no avdol should be totally proud, Abbacchio didn't suspect a fucking thing?? God he's usually better than that.] But I'm glad you got the answer you needed. [Honestly, he isn't sure if he would have worked up the spine to ask Avdol out either.]
Hey. Shut up. [Said in the most fond way possible!] You're fucking handsome. And I'm not just saying that. When I said you were hot before, I wasn't talking about your temperature. We're just different, that's all. [Like, Abbacchio's physical appearance is one of the few things he's confident in, but he's also totally 100% confident in Avdol being handsome as hell. Not everyone is going to be hairless and silver haired, and frankly he's super into the dadbod, so WHATEVER.] Anyway, I don't give a fuck what other people think either.
[It's cute though. Avdol's been thinking about it. What the hell.]
I haven't been on a real date in ages. So, you know, this is gonna be different for me too. But I think I'll be pretty damned happy with your arm around me.
[Hang on-- time to move Prince, who is completely asleep by now, also onto the floor. Look ladies, Avdol loves you very much, but there is too much crush risk in what he's about to do and he also has to do it. He absolutely has to lean over even more, one hand wedged between Abbacchio's thigh and the couch and the other on his opposite shoulder, and he 100% has to kiss him on the mouth right this minute. That's just the fucking tea: if he has a relatively high level of pre-consent then why bother trying to keep his hands off Abbacchio at all, life is too fucking short.]
...I like that we're different but similar, to tell the truth. [God-- he didn't mean to mumble that out at such close proximity because that makes it way more intense than it should've been, but whatever, bro!] I think that's another reason why I like you so much; I thought about doing a reading when I first realised that I was interested in you, but then I realised that that would take away all the surprises. I'm going in completely blind, and it's wonderful. Almost like we're just two normal people.
[Fucking sit down already, Avdol!!! G O D.] I'm sorry, that was a little more than I meant to say. What I'm trying to get at is that I'm very, very excited for our date. I might even get a new outfit, since I have more chroma these days. Would you believe that in my first month or two here, I was too embarrassed to moonlace with anyone?
[bye prince he'll miss you. Thankfully the void of being chickenless is quickly settled with a kissful of Avdol, which he's hardly going to complain about. He takes a moment to appreciate his warmth again, in body and personality; he reaches up, touching Avdol's cheek, pressing into the kiss before they part.]
Yeah, no cheating with fortunetelling. [He says it wryly.] Besides, I still have your Star card. [Though he imagines it's been replaced by now, but he's touched regardless that he has it.]
I mean, I don't blame you. I mostly wanted to be left alone and didn't really want to touch anyone. [Something that they all need to get over, he supposes.] We're in a pretty fucking weird situation.
Mm, you do! I bought a full pack at last, but we just haven't clicked properly yet so I wouldn't cheat now even if I wanted to...I don't regret giving the Star to you, though. Have you thought of a meaning for it yet? No rush, I'm just curious really.
[He looks at his hands for a moment, wringing them just a touch, before loosely placing one over the hand that just touched his cheek.] ...After so long, it doesn't feel as strange, but it really is. I'm glad I'm not the only one who hid away in his apartment though, even if your cycle is far more attractive and less humiliating than mine.
Still! It's-- Well, with everything, the way it is for both of us, I definitely can't say that I regret being pulled here. Best case scenario back home, I somehow end up in Italy, oh...Thirty years your senior, thereabouts? So this is peak luck for me, really.
Is that how it works? You have to used to a deck? [He teases a little but he's genuinely curious now too. It was kinda hokey to him at first but now he's at least interested to expanding his perspective on it.]
The first time I hit the cycle all I wanted to do was eat and shop. Last time was a bit different. I don't know, it's just inconsistent, but I guess the cat shit doesn't hurt does it. Besides, your tentacles weren't bad, but I get the lubricating thing being fucking annoying. [at least it's not a pain in the ass badumtsch]
No promises. I'm already dead, remember? I guess JP's determined to fix things, but I don't have any expectations. Not because I doubt him. [For all the shit he gives Polnareff, he knows he has noble and very stubborn intentions.] But who knows. Maybe we'll both get lucky. I have no idea what would even happen if I went back now since by all evidence to the Moon Knights I'm alive again, but nobody can figure out why.
Mhmm, it's like any other tool-- [Wait a second. There is a grave misconception here that needs to be cleared up for the sake of-- well, nothing really, but it's probably important to be honest about this shit.
Avdol leans in, expression serious, and raises his eyebrows.] Oh, Leone. That...That was different; I don't normally have octopus parts, for one, and I'm normally much more of a wreck. You haven't seen anything yet, I'm afraid. But at least you're prepared for the worst part of it, I suppose. Now if I call you up because I want you so badly that I'm openly weeping, you won't get such a shock to the system!
[Now that that's out of the way, he settles back on the couch and smiles a little, though it's...More wry than anything.] ...That's what I mean, though. Even if I live, the you I'd meet wouldn't be you anyway, and I'd be old. No matter what Polnareff does, we'll never have this chance again. Still, if you could go back and stay alive like this, then I think I'd be alright with missing out on being with you. I think knowing that you got your second chance at home too would...Be worth everything I could give up.
Actually, no. I know that would be worth it. I've always thought that, since I found out about the death thing. Think of the fortune you could make, using Moody Blues to make roses for little grandmothers around the world?
So instead of me making a post demanding sex you'll just call me up in tears and being needy. [HMMM.] I can live with that. But seriously, I'll do my best to be there when you need me.
[Anyway. Now that Avdol is sitting back down, Abbacchio is going to lean against him slightly. Aw hell yeah nice and warm.] You'd be what, ten or fifteen years older? That's hardly old, fuck off. [But would he even remember Avdol -- hell, he doesn't know. Time's already fucked with the various Stands, what would it even be like to change anything? Honestly, he doesn't know what to think about it. All of it's bittersweet anyway, even if it just meant he'd go back to the afterlife.]
Those nonnas have enough help with Bucciarati taking them across the street when they're done grocery shopping.
Ah, you're willing to put up with even that...You're a saint, Leone. An absolute saint. We'll just have to demand sex off each other twice a month, and I'm sure we can somehow live through that.
[This is Depressing Talk Time, apparently, but fuck if Avdol's going to keep the mood depressing. That just means that he has to up the couch snuggling game; we out here heads together, one hand on ya boy's knee, aw yeah.] And I think that somehow, you might be able to live with me being twice your age. If Bucciarati helps me across the street though, I'm going to throw him into a bin. I'm sorry, but it's happening.
I don't think I've met Bucciarati, though. You have so many friends, Leone! It's a lucky thing that I'm not Sanguis, else I'd get irrationally jealous, maybe.
Oh no, how terrible. Good thing I really like it with you.
[Even if it's different than he's used to, it was a good kind. It felt special then. Maybe he was thinking too hard about it, putting too much of now into then.]
Nah, I mean, sometimes someone needs a wake up call. [GONNA JUST slowly lean his head on Avdol's shoulder.]
Heh. I got lucky, is all. I guess I haven't really talked about all of them much to you, though. I can, if you wanna hear it.
I promise it'll be one that doesn't smell as bad, but the punishment remains. How dare he be nice to people in the prime of their lives. I won't stand it, Leone. I absolutely won't. [Said like he's not currently fucking mclosing it internally over Abbacchio's head on his shoulder, this is some real American Rom-Com shit, he's Dying, dating is the fucking best??? They haven't even dated but this is SO GOOD, AHHHHHHHHH.
Okay, chill some you dumb thot, it's good. Just nuzzle in more, go for a double-hander hand-hold, it's cool. This is fine.] ...If you'd like to, though, I'd love to hear about your friends. Maybe I'll tell you more about Mr. Joestar and Jotaro, in turn. Or tell you about the absolute worst thing I did to Polnareff, which will definitely cement my asshole status? But you first.
[After all, these are the people who mean everything to Abbacchio. Of course Avdol wants to know more. It's like...Insight, somehow. And maybe he already knows some of them! (He does, he just isn't 100% sure on it, shh.)]
He's just terrible like that, gotta help everyone.
[But legit this is fucking nice. It's... soft. He hasn't done soft in what feels like a really long time. God, it's not like he hasn't dated before, and he's had plenty of one night stands but suddenly dating is the most flustering thing in the world. Cool cool cool aight.]
I like hearing you talk about your friends. [Avdol's passionate and warm, and he never gets bored listening to him. There's a kind of sincerity to Avdol's energy, and even though he can't really keep up with it he just likes it.] But yeah, all right.
So there's Mista, you already know him. He's kind of an idiot, but his instincts are sharp and that's something I don't usually question. He's also scared of the number four. Something to do with an incident that happened to some kid he knew when he was little? I don't know, that's his thing. [For as much shit as he gives Mista, he tries to not mock him about his fear. There are some things you don't make fun of!]
Narancia's definitely not the brightest. Not exactly his fault, he never even finished primary school, but he also has a big heart. He was living with Bucciarati here, but since he disappeared Narancia's started to live with me instead. I'm kind of a shit role model, but I wouldn't force him to be on his own either.
[ok he's not ready to talk about Fugo, they're all still kind of bittersweet on him, but talking about Bucciarati is also gonna suck. Fuck.]
Bucciarati was here for awhile. He brought us all together when we didn't have anywhere to go. We all owe him, not that he ever looked at it that way. ...After what I did as an officer, I would've died if he didn't find me. I sure as hell was trying to at the time.
[Although the bit about liking to hear him talk about his friends has Avdol 100% guaranteed flustered, he's not going to let it stall him! The reality is that they're probably going to embarrass each other a lot, and that's fine. It's really, really okay if it's Abbacchio saying shit that flusters him; then, it just hits different.
And it's not like the sentiment's mutual. Hearing people talk about their friends and family, about things they're passionate about...That's when they shine, when they're at their most beautiful, and of course Avdol wants to see more of that from his damn new Boyfriend. Which is probably why there's something a little extra doting in his expression as he watches Abbacchio talk, gross.
(Even if he pegs that Bucciarati is the one person who provided that calm space, before Reimi and before him. That's alright. Some petty, shitty baby part of him's a little jealous, but it's by and far outweighed by relief and gratitude towards this man he'll never meet.)] Ah, so I do know your friends! Not Bucciarati, but I've talked to Mista about curses and whatnot...He stresses out a lot, doesn't he? And Narancia! I like him. He's wonderful; very eager to learn and better himself, which is brave. I admire him a lot, to be honest...You don't have to worry about being a role model for him. He'll pave his own way.
[Avdol hums, squeezes their hands together a little tighter.] Bucciarati sounds like a hell of a man, though. He means a lot to you, doesn't he? To all of you.
[This is nice, just being close on the couch and talking to each other. Honestly, after giving out the worst part of himself, everything else comes a little more easily. So he doesn't mind talking about it, especially to Avdol.]
Mm, it's a shame you didn't meet Bucciarati, though. I think you two would've gotten along. He has a strong sense of honor, and did everything he could to be reliable for people who really needed him most.
[And he doesn't think he'll ever really stop loving Bruno Bucciarati, but it's not like Bruno ever knew or even felt the same. It's impossible to know right now. He shouldn't feel guilty for trying to move on.]
...And I guess I should mention Giorno. [HE GUESSES.] We're still adjusting to each other, but I guess when you get down to it he does want to do the right thing. Even if he's a fucking brat.
He does sound like someone I'd like very much! I tend to like honourable sorts, just a little bit...If I'd gotten out more, maybe we could've all been friends instead. I wouldn't have minded that.
[THE TOPIC OF GIORNO IS A LITTLE MORE COMPLEX, THOUGH...Avdol has some Feelings about G, and they're not exactly. Entirely positive. Or negative? Just...] That's...One way to put it. He feels very strongly about the right thing, doesn't he? Which is a...Little unsettling, in someone so young.
[Okay yeah. He's still not over his first-person view of the Cioccolata incident, entirely!! Do you even know how horrifying it is to feel all of Giorno's feelings at once and watch him completely fucking obliterate another human being, even if they were as scummy as Mold Man?
Avdol shudders all his disgust out, though, and manages a smile once more. Hard to feel creeped out by Charming Murder Teen when he's in about the nicest situation possible otherwise.] Look at you, though. Making an effort to get along when I get the sliiiightest inkling that you mightn't be outright fond of him...You don't have to hold back on your feelings here, though! [That was another bad joke for the records. Damn it, Avdol!!] ...I don't suppose that makes it my turn for friendly stories, does it? Since you basically know a good chunk of my friends, all I can do is embarrass them.
[That's an interesting reaction, but Abbacchio doesn't disagree. His feelings about Giorno are a little more complex, but he didn't really expect someone else to feel similarly.]
It's not my place to say, but. [he's gonna anyway] His childhood's got a part of it. He went through some heavy shit. I mean, we all have, but it's better it's directed in the right way. [plus like as long as his enemies die whatever man he doesn't care, that's the mafia life baby]
Ugh, whatever. He's important to everyone else. [THAT'S ALL B-BAKA] But yeah, go for it. I wanna hear what you have to say about them. [please embarrass the fuck out of them he lives for that]
[He wants to say something about the matter of Giorno, about maybe how it'd be nice if he could help, or maybe crack a joke about how nearly everyone with a Stand has had a shitty childhood, har har, but...
Mm, no. It sits badly with Avdol, especially right now, so he just tips his head from side to side and tries to think of the Greatest SDC Hits instead.] ...You know, I don't actually have any embarrassing stories about Kakyoin that aren't also a little more personal than I'm willing to divulge on his behalf. [In the 'headbud' way, mostly.] So I'll stick to the easy route until I come up with something for him. Polnareff!
An interesting fact about our dear friend Jean-Pierre: he absolutely refuses to use a toilet unless it's pristine and properly plumbed. Which is all well and good in most places, but we were travelling across Asia and Africa, and not typically in tourist-friendly areas. Can you imagine the number of times that man would say he was going to the bathroom, only to come back complaining about how barbaric the facilities were? Not even perfectly sterile sand was good enough for him. Just imagine that, for a few weeks solid. Polnareff complaining constantly about toilets.
...Actually, Mr. Joestar complained a bit too, but he had a little more right to, considering he's 69. That reminds me; the story of how we first found out that Mr. Joestar could take spirit photographs with his Stand! Leone. Leone, do you know how much money I spent on Polaroid cameras just so that he could punch them? Do you have any idea how close I was to punching a senior citizen when he accidentally exploded my expensive camera, just because he wanted to test a theory about wires and vines. Because that is exactly what happened.
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[Cue shiteating grin over the rim of his cup, before he sips properly like a real boy. The slowly-building confidence is quickly tamped down when it comes time to get to the real meat of this tea date, though, and he puts the cup back down on the table to better listen.
The girls have no respect for conversational procedure, though; one hops back up on the couch between them, mash speckled on her beak as she tries to wiggle her way onto Avdol's lap.] Mm, I figured as much. ...Take your time, alright? I know this sort of thing is never easy to get out, but I have nowhere else to be, nor anywhere else I'd rather be.
And here. [Abbacchio now has one (1) chicken, Prince to be specific, placed carefully on his lap instead.] Scratch under the ruff on her neck.
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...Ever since I was a kid, it was my dream to be a police officer. Really help people who needed it. [It was naive and unrealistic and stupid.] My partner was a good man, knew exactly who he wanted to be too. We got through academy together.
I learned the hard way that things weren't so easy; the veterans on the force didn't give a shit about people's real problems and ate out of the pocket of criminals. You put away a guy one day, he's back out on the streets the next day. That kind of thing. It wasn't ever enough. Florentino used to say that I needed to be patient. He was always stronger than me.
I let it get to me. My resolve wasn't as strong as his, and I started taking bribes. So the last guy I took a bribe from murdered a store clerk. I caught him at the scene, but he recognized me. I froze up.
My partner came in and took the bullet meant for me. He died, the thug lived and ratted me out. Not that I'd have stayed on the force after that.
That's the kind of guy I am. I'm fucking worthless, especially without someone to follow. I don't have any strength for myself, and I got a good man killed. And I'm alive now when I definitely don't fucking deserve it.
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Humming through his nose in thought, Avdol looks at Prince, who is completely content and starting to try and tuck her head under her wing without pushing That Really Nice Hand away, then up to the owner of said hand.]
I'm still going to the musical with you.
[One sip of tea, before he leans back-- and Michael and Lionel are on his lap then, jockeying for prime position, but whatever. This is serious, he's not letting chickenfesta take away from that!!] A hypothetical. A child causes a housefire through their own actions, without thinking of the consequences of playing with fire. While they get out relatively unharmed, their parents are burned badly, and a majority of their property is destroyed.
Although the child never wanted for their parents to be hurt and for everything to be lost, they were still doing something they knew they shouldn't, and so could absolutely be held accountable for the fire, for the irreversible harm they caused to people they loved. Would you write them off completely?
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He wants to say that it's different with the both of them -- but this is also how Avdol is relating to him. Sharing his own past troubles. The struggle, no doubt, of someone born with a Stand.]
No. I wouldn't.
[Especially not a kid, but it doesn't hurt that he grew up into a good man.]
It was hard, wasn't it. Magician's Red was born when you were. And they couldn't see him.
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If you wouldn't turn me away, then I won't leave you either. I wouldn't have even if I didn't have the slightest inkling of how you might feel, to be honest. [His gaze drops to Prince then, smile tugging at his lips, and he shrugs.] You know, chickens are excellent judges of character? They have to be, being prey animals.
I think that they can see in you what I do, though. That you're the sum of all of your actions, not just a select few. Just like I am.
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[There are other things. He makes bad choices, he's part of the mafia even after death, he's barely a recovering alcoholic -- but if Avdol is able to take him at his worst, then everything else probably hardly matters as much.
He looks down at Prince, who definitely has gotten comfortable on his lap. It's kind of cute what the fuck. These ladies are so pure.]
Reimi said something similar once. Being more than just your trauma and mistakes. [And who else gets trauma like poor Reimi Sugimoto?]
...I like you a lot, Mohammed. For a long time, I only felt calm around one person, like the world only made sense around him, otherwise it was just a fucking mess. Then I got close with Reimi. And I feel that way about you too.
So. I'd really like to go to a musical or whatever the hell we end up doing. Because it's you.
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[Avdol almost reaches over to give Prince a little scratch, but her sisters start protesting juuuuust loudly enough that he thinks better of it and continues doting on them instead. He's just about to comment on their tea probably going a little cold by now and isn't Reimi wise beyond her years, she's really something else, but
ouch fuck ow okay, just beat the fuck out of his feelings why don't you??? Keep it cool Mohammed, don't be a fucking weenie, it's fine, this is what your image has been perfectly sculpted to result in--]
I-- Ah. [Words, asshole!] ...I don't think I can actually say how hearing that makes me feel, hah. [Close enough.] That is-- You already mean so much to me. I guessed when I saw you make that glass rose that you were someone special, but...Mm.
[Gently, he deposits his two passengers on the floor; they're not happy about it whatsoever and try to jostle Abbacchio's feet for affection instead, but too bad so sad, because he's getting in there first with a hug. A non-Prince-crushing one, thankfully, but a hug all the same.] I'm glad you told me to figure out what I want, so that I could understand a little better just how special you are to me.
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Moody Blues just plays back what already happened. Not like I picked the rose or anything. [Which-- hey. He still hasn't given that to anyone. There's a thought, but maybe for later. If things work out okay.
There's a pause, and he leans into the hug, closing his eyes. He still has no idea how he expected this to go, but at least the biggest part is left open now, the worst of him.
.................Okay wait a second.]
I didn't...
[
Fucking hell, you asked that question. [And honestly he's just surprised he didn't figure it out because he could pick up on everyone else what the hell. Abbacchio really can't help but laugh.] Asshole. And what the hell are you doing being so worried about how you look, then?
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[He's so proud of himself, too. Big grin and all, even as he has to answer to his self-deprecation. Call that the effects of a really, really good hug. ...Which he has to break, just a little, to sit down properly again, albeit hip to hip with an arm still draped around Abbacchio's hips.] I don't know if you've seen a mirror recently, though? I know I'm not ugly because I have seen ugly in my life, but you're on about ten other levels of attractive. I know that it doesn't matter between us, but I don't want people to think you're not dating to your full potential.
Or I didn't want them to think that. Now that it's actually a thing, I don't actually care what other people think of us having a good time together, and I don't think that you do either, so right now I'm not particularly worried about it. Not when I could worry about actual practical things like what to wear, and whether I should put my hair up or leave it out, and maybe whether you'll let me put an arm around your shoulders while we're watching the musical.
Maybe, if I behave myself, you might let me give you a goodnight kiss. I'm really aiming for that, to be honest.
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Hey. Shut up. [Said in the most fond way possible!] You're fucking handsome. And I'm not just saying that. When I said you were hot before, I wasn't talking about your temperature. We're just different, that's all. [Like, Abbacchio's physical appearance is one of the few things he's confident in, but he's also totally 100% confident in Avdol being handsome as hell. Not everyone is going to be hairless and silver haired, and frankly he's super into the dadbod, so WHATEVER.] Anyway, I don't give a fuck what other people think either.
[It's cute though. Avdol's been thinking about it. What the hell.]
I haven't been on a real date in ages. So, you know, this is gonna be different for me too. But I think I'll be pretty damned happy with your arm around me.
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...I like that we're different but similar, to tell the truth. [God-- he didn't mean to mumble that out at such close proximity because that makes it way more intense than it should've been, but whatever, bro!] I think that's another reason why I like you so much; I thought about doing a reading when I first realised that I was interested in you, but then I realised that that would take away all the surprises. I'm going in completely blind, and it's wonderful. Almost like we're just two normal people.
[Fucking sit down already, Avdol!!! G O D.] I'm sorry, that was a little more than I meant to say. What I'm trying to get at is that I'm very, very excited for our date. I might even get a new outfit, since I have more chroma these days. Would you believe that in my first month or two here, I was too embarrassed to moonlace with anyone?
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Yeah, no cheating with fortunetelling. [He says it wryly.] Besides, I still have your Star card. [Though he imagines it's been replaced by now, but he's touched regardless that he has it.]
I mean, I don't blame you. I mostly wanted to be left alone and didn't really want to touch anyone. [Something that they all need to get over, he supposes.] We're in a pretty fucking weird situation.
But I'm not unhappy with how it turned out.
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[He looks at his hands for a moment, wringing them just a touch, before loosely placing one over the hand that just touched his cheek.] ...After so long, it doesn't feel as strange, but it really is. I'm glad I'm not the only one who hid away in his apartment though, even if your cycle is far more attractive and less humiliating than mine.
Still! It's-- Well, with everything, the way it is for both of us, I definitely can't say that I regret being pulled here. Best case scenario back home, I somehow end up in Italy, oh...Thirty years your senior, thereabouts? So this is peak luck for me, really.
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The first time I hit the cycle all I wanted to do was eat and shop. Last time was a bit different. I don't know, it's just inconsistent, but I guess the cat shit doesn't hurt does it. Besides, your tentacles weren't bad, but I get the lubricating thing being fucking annoying. [at least it's not a pain in the ass badumtsch]
No promises. I'm already dead, remember? I guess JP's determined to fix things, but I don't have any expectations. Not because I doubt him. [For all the shit he gives Polnareff, he knows he has noble and very stubborn intentions.] But who knows. Maybe we'll both get lucky. I have no idea what would even happen if I went back now since by all evidence to the Moon Knights I'm alive again, but nobody can figure out why.
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Avdol leans in, expression serious, and raises his eyebrows.] Oh, Leone. That...That was different; I don't normally have octopus parts, for one, and I'm normally much more of a wreck. You haven't seen anything yet, I'm afraid. But at least you're prepared for the worst part of it, I suppose. Now if I call you up because I want you so badly that I'm openly weeping, you won't get such a shock to the system!
[Now that that's out of the way, he settles back on the couch and smiles a little, though it's...More wry than anything.] ...That's what I mean, though. Even if I live, the you I'd meet wouldn't be you anyway, and I'd be old. No matter what Polnareff does, we'll never have this chance again. Still, if you could go back and stay alive like this, then I think I'd be alright with missing out on being with you. I think knowing that you got your second chance at home too would...Be worth everything I could give up.
Actually, no. I know that would be worth it. I've always thought that, since I found out about the death thing. Think of the fortune you could make, using Moody Blues to make roses for little grandmothers around the world?
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[Anyway. Now that Avdol is sitting back down, Abbacchio is going to lean against him slightly. Aw hell yeah nice and warm.] You'd be what, ten or fifteen years older? That's hardly old, fuck off. [But would he even remember Avdol -- hell, he doesn't know. Time's already fucked with the various Stands, what would it even be like to change anything? Honestly, he doesn't know what to think about it. All of it's bittersweet anyway, even if it just meant he'd go back to the afterlife.]
Those nonnas have enough help with Bucciarati taking them across the street when they're done grocery shopping.
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[This is Depressing Talk Time, apparently, but fuck if Avdol's going to keep the mood depressing. That just means that he has to up the couch snuggling game; we out here heads together, one hand on ya boy's knee, aw yeah.] And I think that somehow, you might be able to live with me being twice your age. If Bucciarati helps me across the street though, I'm going to throw him into a bin. I'm sorry, but it's happening.
I don't think I've met Bucciarati, though. You have so many friends, Leone! It's a lucky thing that I'm not Sanguis, else I'd get irrationally jealous, maybe.
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[Even if it's different than he's used to, it was a good kind. It felt special then. Maybe he was thinking too hard about it, putting too much of now into then.]
Nah, I mean, sometimes someone needs a wake up call. [GONNA JUST slowly lean his head on Avdol's shoulder.]
Heh. I got lucky, is all. I guess I haven't really talked about all of them much to you, though. I can, if you wanna hear it.
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Okay, chill some you dumb thot, it's good. Just nuzzle in more, go for a double-hander hand-hold, it's cool. This is fine.] ...If you'd like to, though, I'd love to hear about your friends. Maybe I'll tell you more about Mr. Joestar and Jotaro, in turn. Or tell you about the absolute worst thing I did to Polnareff, which will definitely cement my asshole status? But you first.
[After all, these are the people who mean everything to Abbacchio. Of course Avdol wants to know more. It's like...Insight, somehow. And maybe he already knows some of them! (He does, he just isn't 100% sure on it, shh.)]
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[But legit this is fucking nice. It's... soft. He hasn't done soft in what feels like a really long time. God, it's not like he hasn't dated before, and he's had plenty of one night stands but suddenly dating is the most flustering thing in the world. Cool cool cool aight.]
I like hearing you talk about your friends. [Avdol's passionate and warm, and he never gets bored listening to him. There's a kind of sincerity to Avdol's energy, and even though he can't really keep up with it he just likes it.] But yeah, all right.
So there's Mista, you already know him. He's kind of an idiot, but his instincts are sharp and that's something I don't usually question. He's also scared of the number four. Something to do with an incident that happened to some kid he knew when he was little? I don't know, that's his thing. [For as much shit as he gives Mista, he tries to not mock him about his fear. There are some things you don't make fun of!]
Narancia's definitely not the brightest. Not exactly his fault, he never even finished primary school, but he also has a big heart. He was living with Bucciarati here, but since he disappeared Narancia's started to live with me instead. I'm kind of a shit role model, but I wouldn't force him to be on his own either.
[ok he's not ready to talk about Fugo, they're all still kind of bittersweet on him, but talking about Bucciarati is also gonna suck. Fuck.]
Bucciarati was here for awhile. He brought us all together when we didn't have anywhere to go. We all owe him, not that he ever looked at it that way. ...After what I did as an officer, I would've died if he didn't find me. I sure as hell was trying to at the time.
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And it's not like the sentiment's mutual. Hearing people talk about their friends and family, about things they're passionate about...That's when they shine, when they're at their most beautiful, and of course Avdol wants to see more of that from his damn new Boyfriend. Which is probably why there's something a little extra doting in his expression as he watches Abbacchio talk, gross.
(Even if he pegs that Bucciarati is the one person who provided that calm space, before Reimi and before him. That's alright. Some petty, shitty baby part of him's a little jealous, but it's by and far outweighed by relief and gratitude towards this man he'll never meet.)] Ah, so I do know your friends! Not Bucciarati, but I've talked to Mista about curses and whatnot...He stresses out a lot, doesn't he? And Narancia! I like him. He's wonderful; very eager to learn and better himself, which is brave. I admire him a lot, to be honest...You don't have to worry about being a role model for him. He'll pave his own way.
[Avdol hums, squeezes their hands together a little tighter.] Bucciarati sounds like a hell of a man, though. He means a lot to you, doesn't he? To all of you.
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Mm, it's a shame you didn't meet Bucciarati, though. I think you two would've gotten along. He has a strong sense of honor, and did everything he could to be reliable for people who really needed him most.
[And he doesn't think he'll ever really stop loving Bruno Bucciarati, but it's not like Bruno ever knew or even felt the same. It's impossible to know right now. He shouldn't feel guilty for trying to move on.]
...And I guess I should mention Giorno. [HE GUESSES.] We're still adjusting to each other, but I guess when you get down to it he does want to do the right thing. Even if he's a fucking brat.
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[THE TOPIC OF GIORNO IS A LITTLE MORE COMPLEX, THOUGH...Avdol has some Feelings about G, and they're not exactly. Entirely positive. Or negative? Just...] That's...One way to put it. He feels very strongly about the right thing, doesn't he? Which is a...Little unsettling, in someone so young.
[Okay yeah. He's still not over his first-person view of the Cioccolata incident, entirely!! Do you even know how horrifying it is to feel all of Giorno's feelings at once and watch him completely fucking obliterate another human being, even if they were as scummy as Mold Man?
Avdol shudders all his disgust out, though, and manages a smile once more. Hard to feel creeped out by Charming Murder Teen when he's in about the nicest situation possible otherwise.] Look at you, though. Making an effort to get along when I get the sliiiightest inkling that you mightn't be outright fond of him...You don't have to hold back on your feelings here, though! [That was another bad joke for the records. Damn it, Avdol!!] ...I don't suppose that makes it my turn for friendly stories, does it? Since you basically know a good chunk of my friends, all I can do is embarrass them.
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It's not my place to say, but. [he's gonna anyway] His childhood's got a part of it. He went through some heavy shit. I mean, we all have, but it's better it's directed in the right way. [plus like as long as his enemies die whatever man he doesn't care, that's the mafia life baby]
Ugh, whatever. He's important to everyone else. [THAT'S ALL B-BAKA] But yeah, go for it. I wanna hear what you have to say about them. [please embarrass the fuck out of them he lives for that]
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Mm, no. It sits badly with Avdol, especially right now, so he just tips his head from side to side and tries to think of the Greatest SDC Hits instead.] ...You know, I don't actually have any embarrassing stories about Kakyoin that aren't also a little more personal than I'm willing to divulge on his behalf. [In the 'headbud' way, mostly.] So I'll stick to the easy route until I come up with something for him. Polnareff!
An interesting fact about our dear friend Jean-Pierre: he absolutely refuses to use a toilet unless it's pristine and properly plumbed. Which is all well and good in most places, but we were travelling across Asia and Africa, and not typically in tourist-friendly areas. Can you imagine the number of times that man would say he was going to the bathroom, only to come back complaining about how barbaric the facilities were? Not even perfectly sterile sand was good enough for him. Just imagine that, for a few weeks solid. Polnareff complaining constantly about toilets.
...Actually, Mr. Joestar complained a bit too, but he had a little more right to, considering he's 69. That reminds me; the story of how we first found out that Mr. Joestar could take spirit photographs with his Stand! Leone. Leone, do you know how much money I spent on Polaroid cameras just so that he could punch them? Do you have any idea how close I was to punching a senior citizen when he accidentally exploded my expensive camera, just because he wanted to test a theory about wires and vines. Because that is exactly what happened.
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