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.
[Abbacchio DEFINITELY HAS A STORY ABOUT KAKYOIN but the brocode dictates that he won't out Kakyoin even if he isn't here anymore. They will keep their gross stories a secret. So instead he'll listen to the story about Polnareff because that's always hilarious.]
God, leave it to him to have weird fixations. [Turning his head, he chuckles against Avdol's shoulder, smiling against him.] What'd he do, just clench and hope he found a toilet that suited his needs?
Wait, okay, so his Stand would only work if he broke devices? What the fuck, that's so expensive.
Fine though, it's his turn for storytime anyway and he hasn't actually told any stories so much as gossiped like a bitch, so. Right as the girls decide to resume their seating since there's no more hugging going on, Avdol waves one arm out in front of them and nods sagely.]
Only if he punched cameras. I'll give you the full story, though! Mr. Joestar's Stand is a series of purple vines, which can conduct certain energies very well. This apparently includes electricity, which he found out after...Jamming it into a wall socket, I believe? Or I could be remembering wrongly. Anyway, we knew that he could conduct electricity. So we're sitting in my hotel room in New York, discussing the applications for this that wouldn't result in him getting defibrillated, and he says he has an idea.
We were trying to track down Dio by this stage, so clearly he was inspired by a horror movie or...Something, and he asks me to go get my camera. Which was full of pictures of my first real visit to New York, might I add? But anyway. He tries to send the vines into the camera, and it fails to do anything. We sit there for about four hours, my rear hurts and I'm hungry, and he gets so frustrated that he straight up punches the camera.
It's destroyed. But a photo comes out. A photo of Dio, nonetheless. I can't eat the photo, nor can I sell it, but Mr. Joestar's overjoyed! He tries punching the corpse of my camera while I contemplate crying at what my life's become, nothing happens, and then he starts talking about EVPs and spirit photography. I think I blacked out then, but the next thing I remember is him changing the channels on the TV via Stand.
I'll never get back that money, or the picture of me at the Statue of Liberty. And every time he wants to take a photo to see what Dio's doing, I have to buy a new camera just for him to punch it. I think it has something to do with the force helping the vines go through better? I'm not sure...But it's nice to not be broke thanks to Hermit Purple. [And that is a very good excuse to stop looking exasperated and shoot Abbacchio a cocky little smirk.]
...Dare I bore you with another story? I could always tell you about our first trip to Japan together; that was scandalous. Oooooor I could get you another tea, since I think ours have both gone cold.
[If anything, Abbacchio is just engrossed in the story. Avdol is easy to listen to, and it's clear that despite everything he still considers this Joseph Joestar a good friend. So he listens, more or less curled up against Avdol's side at this point.
He shrugs.] You don't bore me. If I thought it was shit, I'd tell you. [It's not like he's ever been shy about sharing his opinion before regardless of who it is, whether it's Bruno Bucciarati or Mohammed Avdol or Reimi Sugimoto.] Don't worry about the tea, I want you to stay where you are. [So he can soak up your warmth, nice.]
Tell me about Japan. I've never been outside of Italy, anyway.
True! I don't want or expect anything less than your honest opinion, anyway. [Before he launches further into storytime, however, Avdol's just going to enjoy things for a second. Talking like a normal person (kind of), curled up on the lounge with the bf and the girls, no great threat to global safety to worry about (apart from the one that's fixed by them cuddling in close).
Even if this is some sort of cosmic joke to give them both a little glimpse of happiness before they die/stay dead, he can't say he minds.] ...I also don't want to move, to be honest. You make a compelling case to stay put, so...Japan it is! Though I think I'll actually spare you the scandal, since it's...Mr. Joestar's personal business, and he's not exactly here to defend himself. [Yet.]
It's completely different to Italy, though. Or what I've seen of both countries is, anyway! I stayed in Tokyo to explore, naturally; the hotel was expensive, but I lived off of convenience store food most of the time anyway. You can barely see the stars at night because of the city lights, and when you look up, it's like you're in a forest of metal, glass, and neon. It's beautiful in its own way. I got bored just doing a food tour on my own, so I went to see the maiko in training after a week or so.
[This fucking weeb ass motherfucker. He's not even ashamed, but then, he doesn't know how Embarrassing This Is either.] I learned how to do tea ceremonies then! That was rather exciting; I'm a little biased towards matcha over other teas for that reason alone. The simple quietness and routine of preparing it properly, getting to eat wagashi afterwards...I'll have to see if they have anything in Caihong that'll suffice so I can make you some one day. I know they have sweets similar to wagashi!
I won't lie, though. I did get stared at a lot, even when I tried to dress more like everyone else to blend in. But I wish that we could go together; it's a beautiful place, full of people and life. And I haven't managed to go to the Tsukiji fish markets yet, either; I think if anyone could appreciate fresh seafood, it'd have to be an Italian.
Good. You're comfortable as hell, so stay. [Though he'd be lying if he say he wasn't interested in this scandal. But he's not going to pester if Avdol isn't going to share that, so that's fine.
It's interesting to listen to. He wonders how much of it is anything like where Reimi's from? He should probably ask her sometime. It's kind of a shame he'll probably never see it himself, and he can never show Reimi any part of Napoli either. That'd be the dream, showing both Reimi and Avdol the places he's actually fond of. Stories will just have to be enough.
So he listens to Avdol's weeb tale. He isn't surprised that Avdol got stares, honestly. He probably would in Italy, too. It's shitty, but true.]
They just never saw a man as handsome as you before, don't worry about it. [SLICK. NICE.] Never had Japanese food, though. I'd try it. And that tea ceremony you mentioned. [Because that does, honestly, have his interest. He fucking loves tea.]
Well. If we can get bird boxes here to play music we're familiar with, maybe there's something similar we can do for the places we've been. Who knows.
[SLICK ALRIGHT. Avdol snorts, sputters, and manages to rein it the Fuck In this time round, but BOY THAT WAS A GOODUN.]
I thought you were meant to always shoot straight with me? And I know about shooting, too. [Don't tap th-- oh he's doing it, he's tapping the forehead scar. This is...Weird, though. Bittersweet. And if he lingers on the impossible for too long, it'll just become bitter in their mouths, so...
Moving right along, naturally.] You know what? I don't see why we couldn't get at least...Holograms of places we've seen, or something like that. How would that be any different than the music, like you said? It's all basically our memories...Until the Prismals get on that, however, I'll have to really dig through Caihong to find the next best thing. If I find a restaurant that serves anything close to good sushi, or even just the right ingredients, it's happening. That's going to be our next date--
If you have no objections, of course. Which reminds me, we need to get to picking out a show to see, and a night to see it. I'll take care of the tickets, once we've decided! It's only fair, since I'm imposing on you. [Thankfully, he says that much with an incredibly smug tone, bringing Abbacchio's knuckles to his lips for the complete package deal of snooty asshole.]
Is that where that scar came from? [what the fuck, that must have been a close call. he doesn't know the hol horse story yet but wow
Gently, he squeezes Avdol's hand, and he smiles crookedly.] Already planning the second date, huh? Hmm. [Teasing aside, well. He's going to lean in and plant a kiss very firmly onto Avdol's cheek.] But yeah. No objections. I'd love to give it a shot.
[Oh. Okay. Avdol's kissing his knuckles. Shit, that's smooth too. God damn.]
...Hey. Whatever ends up happening. I'm glad we're giving it a try. So. Thank you.
Mmhm! I'll tell you the story one day, though you'll probably think less of me for it. That's the Ballad Of The Worst Thing I Ever Did To Polnareff, and it's maybe...Fourth date material? Mm.
[It's fine, Polnareff deserved it or something. But Polnareff is not here, and also not giving dating him a go, and definitely not all warm and wonderful and alive curled up against him, so Avdol does Not think about him past that. Sorry buddy, priorities. Top of that particular list is HOLDING HANDS WITH BIG TITTY GOTH, and second is DON'T EMBARRASS YOURSELF.] Why are you thanking me? I should be thanking you for saying yes at all, since I'd likely shrivel up from embarrassment and hide for a week straight otherwise.
Not that I'd have let you get rid of me so easily, but you'd have gotten a break at least. ...Joking aside, though, I know that whatever happens, we're going to have a good time, and...That's the least I want to give you. Some wonderful memories with a strange man you met on some alien planet.
[He's quiet for a moment then, smiling faintly at their joined hands like a complete dork, before looking back up and Intensifying That Smile.] If we go to a musical at night, does that mean that we get to dress up in our finest? And what night works best for you? --not that we have to decide what date now or anything, I'm just curious!
Sure. I can wait, anyway. I don't have to know all your secrets right off.
[And really, he's looking forward to it? Like, progressively knowing him. It's almost normal, what the hell. He didn't think he'd get anything close to normal like ever again. Wild.
What Abbacchio wants to say is it's because I'm a giant fuckup why are you even bothering but he already knows Avdol isn't going to have any of that. They're two men with complicated self-esteem problems heyyyy. So he just shrugs and aggressively cuddles. Yeah, that'll do it.
Oh fuck Avdol's smile is really nice. Abbacchio ducks his head a little. CAN'T TAKE IT.]
That's the idea, yeah. It's a nice excuse to dress up. You don't have to do black tie, though. Like-- whatever you think it's nice, I wanna see that.
[He likes Avdol's clothes, so he wants to see what he'd do!]
Honestly, I don't have many in the first place, apart from the true depths of my bastardry. Lucky you, right? [Being normal again is so, so fucking weird. And exciting. After the whole Dio thing started, Avdol honestly didn't expect to do much in life apart from chasing after Mr. Joestar for the rest of his days because...What else would there be? He couldn't go back to his shop after that.
But now, he wants the shop here. Has something incredibly bizarre and normal all in one right here, some strange time-travelling romance shit that he never expected for himself, where they can just talk about themselves and snuggle up on the couch and get sat on by chickens and, apparently, get embarrassed by each other still.
God, that's so cute. Abbacchio is so cute, even if he could possibly kill with just a look.]
...Mm? [Time to stop thinking so many gay thoughts!!!] I don't actually have nice clothing here yet, to tell the truth. It's all been simple things that I've bought...But I'll do my best to dress appropriately, so you're not disappointed. Maybe a little jewellery, even! [He sneaks in a quick, affectionate little nuzzle/headbutt combo, smile wide and warm and serene.] I can't wait to see you dressed up. You look fantastic normally, so I'll have to brace my jaw to keep it from dropping, I think.
Guess we're just gonna have to have a competition of who's the real asshole here. [SPOILERS IT IS ABBACCHIO. But then, he's never shy about that, so you know.
He squeezes Avdol's hand.]
You won't disappoint me. You're fucking handsome, and I don't know anything about Egyptian fashion but I wanna see what you put together. [He reaches up, idly playing with Avdol's ponytail.] I'm gonna like it.
I am good at exactly two things: making tea and looking good, so I can't really hold back on the second one.
Leone. [Affectionate, amused, exasperated.] In my observations, and I watch you as closely as is socially acceptable, rest assured, you're good at plenty.
Most of them just aren't things that we can discuss in civilised company. [RIMSHOT. And he looks so smug about it, too.] But in all seriousness, even if you are good at many things, not all of which involve emotionally compromising me, I have no doubt that you are amazing at those two things in particular.
...Which only makes me equal parts anxious and incredibly eager for the date, to be honest! It'll be nice to do something...normal, I guess. Something that doesn't involve mortal peril. Just me trying to not throw up on myself while I wait for you to answer the door, probably. So...Thank you for this. For saying yes. I know we're going to have a great time, no matter what, and I'll have to go home at a ridiculous hour and face either Polnareff or the chickens judging me for my walk of shame.
Shit, you're not the only one that's gonna be nervous. [Lightly tugs on his ponytail. But like, an affectionate one, not a mean one.] Maybe you should bring a barf bag, huh?
[Seriously, though, it'll be nice to do something kinda normal for a change! No stupid Stand battles or hijinks, theoretically. Just a nice night out with a handsome man.]
You could you could always stay over. If you wanted.
[LOOK THEY FUCKED MORE THAN THEY BEEN ON DATES, IT'S AN APPROPRIATE JOKE. ...He still deserves that little ponytail-tug though, and damn if he doesn't know it and chuckle as his head tips back all the same.]
I'll bring a bucket, just in case we get our second wind halfway through. What if I start panicking as I think about whether or not to kiss you at your doorste--
[OH. oh. oh! oh wow, h. give him a second he's.
SOMEHOW THIS IS FLUSTER MATERIAL??????] Ah.
I. Think I'd like that, if your roommate wouldn't mind.
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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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God, leave it to him to have weird fixations. [Turning his head, he chuckles against Avdol's shoulder, smiling against him.] What'd he do, just clench and hope he found a toilet that suited his needs?
Wait, okay, so his Stand would only work if he broke devices? What the fuck, that's so expensive.
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Fine though, it's his turn for storytime anyway and he hasn't actually told any stories so much as gossiped like a bitch, so. Right as the girls decide to resume their seating since there's no more hugging going on, Avdol waves one arm out in front of them and nods sagely.]
Only if he punched cameras. I'll give you the full story, though! Mr. Joestar's Stand is a series of purple vines, which can conduct certain energies very well. This apparently includes electricity, which he found out after...Jamming it into a wall socket, I believe? Or I could be remembering wrongly. Anyway, we knew that he could conduct electricity. So we're sitting in my hotel room in New York, discussing the applications for this that wouldn't result in him getting defibrillated, and he says he has an idea.
We were trying to track down Dio by this stage, so clearly he was inspired by a horror movie or...Something, and he asks me to go get my camera. Which was full of pictures of my first real visit to New York, might I add? But anyway. He tries to send the vines into the camera, and it fails to do anything. We sit there for about four hours, my rear hurts and I'm hungry, and he gets so frustrated that he straight up punches the camera.
It's destroyed. But a photo comes out. A photo of Dio, nonetheless. I can't eat the photo, nor can I sell it, but Mr. Joestar's overjoyed! He tries punching the corpse of my camera while I contemplate crying at what my life's become, nothing happens, and then he starts talking about EVPs and spirit photography. I think I blacked out then, but the next thing I remember is him changing the channels on the TV via Stand.
I'll never get back that money, or the picture of me at the Statue of Liberty. And every time he wants to take a photo to see what Dio's doing, I have to buy a new camera just for him to punch it. I think it has something to do with the force helping the vines go through better? I'm not sure...But it's nice to not be broke thanks to Hermit Purple. [And that is a very good excuse to stop looking exasperated and shoot Abbacchio a cocky little smirk.]
...Dare I bore you with another story? I could always tell you about our first trip to Japan together; that was scandalous. Oooooor I could get you another tea, since I think ours have both gone cold.
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He shrugs.] You don't bore me. If I thought it was shit, I'd tell you. [It's not like he's ever been shy about sharing his opinion before regardless of who it is, whether it's Bruno Bucciarati or Mohammed Avdol or Reimi Sugimoto.] Don't worry about the tea, I want you to stay where you are. [So he can soak up your warmth, nice.]
Tell me about Japan. I've never been outside of Italy, anyway.
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Even if this is some sort of cosmic joke to give them both a little glimpse of happiness before they die/stay dead, he can't say he minds.] ...I also don't want to move, to be honest. You make a compelling case to stay put, so...Japan it is! Though I think I'll actually spare you the scandal, since it's...Mr. Joestar's personal business, and he's not exactly here to defend himself. [Yet.]
It's completely different to Italy, though. Or what I've seen of both countries is, anyway! I stayed in Tokyo to explore, naturally; the hotel was expensive, but I lived off of convenience store food most of the time anyway. You can barely see the stars at night because of the city lights, and when you look up, it's like you're in a forest of metal, glass, and neon. It's beautiful in its own way. I got bored just doing a food tour on my own, so I went to see the maiko in training after a week or so.
[This fucking weeb ass motherfucker. He's not even ashamed, but then, he doesn't know how Embarrassing This Is either.] I learned how to do tea ceremonies then! That was rather exciting; I'm a little biased towards matcha over other teas for that reason alone. The simple quietness and routine of preparing it properly, getting to eat wagashi afterwards...I'll have to see if they have anything in Caihong that'll suffice so I can make you some one day. I know they have sweets similar to wagashi!
I won't lie, though. I did get stared at a lot, even when I tried to dress more like everyone else to blend in. But I wish that we could go together; it's a beautiful place, full of people and life. And I haven't managed to go to the Tsukiji fish markets yet, either; I think if anyone could appreciate fresh seafood, it'd have to be an Italian.
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It's interesting to listen to. He wonders how much of it is anything like where Reimi's from? He should probably ask her sometime. It's kind of a shame he'll probably never see it himself, and he can never show Reimi any part of Napoli either. That'd be the dream, showing both Reimi and Avdol the places he's actually fond of. Stories will just have to be enough.
So he listens to Avdol's weeb tale. He isn't surprised that Avdol got stares, honestly. He probably would in Italy, too. It's shitty, but true.]
They just never saw a man as handsome as you before, don't worry about it. [SLICK. NICE.] Never had Japanese food, though. I'd try it. And that tea ceremony you mentioned. [Because that does, honestly, have his interest. He fucking loves tea.]
Well. If we can get bird boxes here to play music we're familiar with, maybe there's something similar we can do for the places we've been. Who knows.
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I thought you were meant to always shoot straight with me? And I know about shooting, too. [Don't tap th-- oh he's doing it, he's tapping the forehead scar. This is...Weird, though. Bittersweet. And if he lingers on the impossible for too long, it'll just become bitter in their mouths, so...
Moving right along, naturally.] You know what? I don't see why we couldn't get at least...Holograms of places we've seen, or something like that. How would that be any different than the music, like you said? It's all basically our memories...Until the Prismals get on that, however, I'll have to really dig through Caihong to find the next best thing. If I find a restaurant that serves anything close to good sushi, or even just the right ingredients, it's happening. That's going to be our next date--
If you have no objections, of course. Which reminds me, we need to get to picking out a show to see, and a night to see it. I'll take care of the tickets, once we've decided! It's only fair, since I'm imposing on you. [Thankfully, he says that much with an incredibly smug tone, bringing Abbacchio's knuckles to his lips for the complete package deal of snooty asshole.]
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Gently, he squeezes Avdol's hand, and he smiles crookedly.] Already planning the second date, huh? Hmm. [Teasing aside, well. He's going to lean in and plant a kiss very firmly onto Avdol's cheek.] But yeah. No objections. I'd love to give it a shot.
[Oh. Okay. Avdol's kissing his knuckles. Shit, that's smooth too. God damn.]
...Hey. Whatever ends up happening. I'm glad we're giving it a try. So. Thank you.
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[It's fine, Polnareff deserved it or something. But Polnareff is not here, and also not giving dating him a go, and definitely not all warm and wonderful and alive curled up against him, so Avdol does Not think about him past that. Sorry buddy, priorities. Top of that particular list is HOLDING HANDS WITH BIG TITTY GOTH, and second is DON'T EMBARRASS YOURSELF.] Why are you thanking me? I should be thanking you for saying yes at all, since I'd likely shrivel up from embarrassment and hide for a week straight otherwise.
Not that I'd have let you get rid of me so easily, but you'd have gotten a break at least. ...Joking aside, though, I know that whatever happens, we're going to have a good time, and...That's the least I want to give you. Some wonderful memories with a strange man you met on some alien planet.
[He's quiet for a moment then, smiling faintly at their joined hands like a complete dork, before looking back up and Intensifying That Smile.] If we go to a musical at night, does that mean that we get to dress up in our finest? And what night works best for you? --not that we have to decide what date now or anything, I'm just curious!
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[And really, he's looking forward to it? Like, progressively knowing him. It's almost normal, what the hell. He didn't think he'd get anything close to normal like ever again. Wild.
What Abbacchio wants to say is it's because I'm a giant fuckup why are you even bothering but he already knows Avdol isn't going to have any of that. They're two men with complicated self-esteem problems heyyyy. So he just shrugs and aggressively cuddles. Yeah, that'll do it.
Oh fuck Avdol's smile is really nice. Abbacchio ducks his head a little. CAN'T TAKE IT.]
That's the idea, yeah. It's a nice excuse to dress up. You don't have to do black tie, though. Like-- whatever you think it's nice, I wanna see that.
[He likes Avdol's clothes, so he wants to see what he'd do!]
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But now, he wants the shop here. Has something incredibly bizarre and normal all in one right here, some strange time-travelling romance shit that he never expected for himself, where they can just talk about themselves and snuggle up on the couch and get sat on by chickens and, apparently, get embarrassed by each other still.
God, that's so cute. Abbacchio is so cute, even if he could possibly kill with just a look.]
...Mm? [Time to stop thinking so many gay thoughts!!!] I don't actually have nice clothing here yet, to tell the truth. It's all been simple things that I've bought...But I'll do my best to dress appropriately, so you're not disappointed. Maybe a little jewellery, even! [He sneaks in a quick, affectionate little nuzzle/headbutt combo, smile wide and warm and serene.] I can't wait to see you dressed up. You look fantastic normally, so I'll have to brace my jaw to keep it from dropping, I think.
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He squeezes Avdol's hand.]
You won't disappoint me. You're fucking handsome, and I don't know anything about Egyptian fashion but I wanna see what you put together. [He reaches up, idly playing with Avdol's ponytail.] I'm gonna like it.
I am good at exactly two things: making tea and looking good, so I can't really hold back on the second one.
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Most of them just aren't things that we can discuss in civilised company. [RIMSHOT. And he looks so smug about it, too.] But in all seriousness, even if you are good at many things, not all of which involve emotionally compromising me, I have no doubt that you are amazing at those two things in particular.
...Which only makes me equal parts anxious and incredibly eager for the date, to be honest! It'll be nice to do something...normal, I guess. Something that doesn't involve mortal peril. Just me trying to not throw up on myself while I wait for you to answer the door, probably. So...Thank you for this. For saying yes. I know we're going to have a great time, no matter what, and I'll have to go home at a ridiculous hour and face either Polnareff or the chickens judging me for my walk of shame.
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Shit, you're not the only one that's gonna be nervous. [Lightly tugs on his ponytail. But like, an affectionate one, not a mean one.] Maybe you should bring a barf bag, huh?
[Seriously, though, it'll be nice to do something kinda normal for a change! No stupid Stand battles or hijinks, theoretically. Just a nice night out with a handsome man.]
You could you could always stay over. If you wanted.
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I'll bring a bucket, just in case we get our second wind halfway through. What if I start panicking as I think about whether or not to kiss you at your doorste--
[OH. oh. oh! oh wow, h. give him a second he's.
SOMEHOW THIS IS FLUSTER MATERIAL??????] Ah.
I. Think I'd like that, if your roommate wouldn't mind.
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