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Preening
The night is young and quiet. All the sinners have taken their breaks, as according to the Manager's orders. Everyone did well after today's dungeons, and it was only right that they got to rest.
Dante isn't at their office however. Seeing the bus empty was jarring, but that didn't stay too long. There was someone they were waiting for.
Dante
Executive Manager
(Karasu...)
Karasu
Nevermore
Hello, Dante.
These two would often meet in secret. Short conversations and little affections became the highlights of their day. Karasu walks up to Dante and holds their hands, smiling. She was always so happy to see them.
Karasu
Nevermore
I apologize. I hope you had not been waiting too long.
Dante
Executive Manager
(Oh, it's no problem! I can wait a while, I think.)
She giggles, and Dante can't help but bow their head a bit in embarrassment.
Karasu
Nevermore
There is a small problem I've been facing, hence why I took a moment.
Karasu
Nevermore
My feathers require a bit of maintenance. Would it be alright if you helped me?
Their head looks up. They've ruffled her feathers a few times, though this instance was different from that.
Dante
Executive Manager
(So those feathers of yours really are like a bird's...Are you asking me to, uh...help with preening? Is that the word?)
Karasu
Nevermore
That is correct. Only if you're alright with it.
Dante
Executive Manager
(I'd be honored, really.)
The two of them take their seats, with Karasu leaning towards Dante as their gloves gently caress and brush through their feathers. They were careful not to pick on those still good, only the ones that were molting.
Dante's hands shake a little. It was clear they were nervous, their ticks becoming slightly louder each minute.
Karasu
Nevermore
Dante...it's alright.
Karasu
Nevermore
I know you are nervous, but please do not worry too much if you make a mistake.
Dante
Executive Manager
(I just don't want to hurt you, even on accident...)
Karasu
Nevermore
You won't. I promise.
The Manager nods, and continues their brushing. Karasu sighs and leans closer. There's only so much you can talk about when you're both so tired.
Karasu
Nevermore
It would be nice if we could stay like this for much longer...
Karasu
Nevermore
That is only if we are able to.
Dante
Executive Manager
(What if someone catches us? We could get in trouble, or...)
They trail off, and tick again. Karasu doesn't wait for them to finish, instead turning around to kiss their clockface.
Karasu
Nevermore
Pardon me. You're just adorable when worried.
Dante
Executive Manager
(Oh-!)
Affections like kisses were still something Dante had to get used to, especially because they can't quite kiss back. Their face heats up anyhow, and their arms move to wrap around Karasu. She reciprocates almost immediately.
Dante
Executive Manager
(...Maybe getting in trouble won't be so bad. Let's stay like this, then.)
The two of them continue to hold each other, even as Karasu yawns and slowly falls into a relaxed slumber. Dante's head gently nuzzles her, hoping for a good rest.
If only they could remain this way forever.