[ There's the suggestion of a question there, a point to go on top of Inigo's own and what he's already stated. But Tidus is being careful, picky with what he says than what he could be - for maybe once in his life.
Because he can see that Inigo's brain is still reeling through this, and Tidus can't help but to take another look over of Inigo either, of that particular nasty mark he remembers being bitten into his shoulder - but he's not the guy who's seen them all his life, been affected by them being there, so his eyes find themselves back to Inigo's quickly, easily.
The how and why aren't really so important to him than the process Inigo is going through currently. ]
[ While it's still a little unsure, he doesn't seem to entirely dislike it, at least. It's just weird - and honestly, Inigo never really did imagine his scars disappearing, let alone thinking about what that'd be like after.
Hence why his reaction is so quiet. Like his brain machine is turning gears rapidly inside of his head, yet still not arriving at an answer.
But Inigo exhales, seeming to snap out of it a little. ]
It's not a big deal anyway. I'm imagining all those people who had their ages changed will go back to normal soon enough, right? [ .. hopefully, anyway. Roland may have seemed comfortable looking his true age, but Inigo can't imagine what it'd be like if some people would just stay kids forever now.. ] This probably has something to do with it too.
[ Even if he doesn't know what. Or how. ]
So they'll be back at some point. [ Then why think about it too much? Even if he does finally reach the point where he likes it, he'll just be disappointed if they return. Inigo shakes his head, reaching out to grab one of the trunks and change into it. ]
Let's just get into the water and enjoy the quiet here while we can!
[ Why do they need to return? That's what Tidus thinks, but he knows it's kinda unreasonable, maybe, if they want to think about everyone returning back to their proper ages (Roland, too?). So he won't argue, not right away, give Inigo the space to change without him there as he's pulling down his pants - heading over to the heated pool first, but speaking louder over his shoulder: ]
What if everyone did stay younger? [ What then. ] What even happened anyway? You hear anything? I dunno why a train would make people younger...
[ But if it wasn't the train... ]
What if -- someone put a potion into the food! And that's what happened!
[ Even though that doesn't make sense entirely, and Inigo realises it as he's saying it out loud. Didn't they have a bit more of a warning for the voidstorm last time around? Or rather, they at least knew that was what was happening. Right now there didn't seem to be any warning. They just woke up, and things suddenly were like this.
Which makes Tidus's explanation, in turn, not seem all that impossible. ]
But you really think someone could've done this? [ Rather than sounding sceptical, Inigo sounds a little worried as he puts on the trunks. ] On purpose? Why would they?
[ Tidus had already put the pool to fill when they first came in, and it's sitting there waiting for him, steam wafting off from the surface that Tidus breaks as he dips in his feet. ]
See what happens? Easier than just asking everyone if you can go and pour your potion into the food. Then you get more volunteers.
[ ''Volunteers''. But actually, didn't they have chicken yesterday? Hmm, maybe they put it in the water instead?
It's a half-hearted thought at the very least, which might be why Tidus isn't all that concerned over the idea that someone on the train would be okay with testing their concoctions on the entire train. Plus, what's he supposed to do?? ]
Webs could magic an entire train, but she got affected too!
[ Inigo is quiet for a moment, contemplating it. He can't say he likes the idea of someone doing that to all of them without asking, but considering some of the types on this train.. It's not exactly impossible.
Like potential culprit #1 Tidus is identifying here. Or.. ]
Senku also got turned into a little kid. [ Inigo likes to think Senku is better than that, but.. you know. He sometimes sees things in wild ways. ] But I guess there are plenty of people on the train we don't know all that well who could've done it..
[ Having finished changing into the trunks, Inigo finally hobbles after Tidus, until he's right next to the other. Watching Tidus as he's quite literally testing the waters. ]
.. Is the water any good? [ NOT THAT THEIR MANY TOPIC OF DISCUSSION ISN'T IMPORTANT, BUT. You know! He doesn't want to burn himself! ]
[ Senku would run tests on turning people into kids if he could.If he could. But would he do it without permission? Senku doesn't seem the type when it comes to that, especially if it ended up backfiring on the 'victim'. Gotta let people agree to potential danger before putting them in it.
But he doesn't have a moment to voice that as Inigo comes over, asking his question as Tidus puts in more than a foot. Lowering down, both legs slipping in- ]
Feels good! Come on!
[ He can nudge Inigo with an elbow here, just before he finishes getting in the water and letting his arms spread out. There's no way of really floating except in an awkward sitting position - which Tidus tries. ]
Well.. [ His voice trails off for a moment, like he's thinking. Inigo even isn't quite getting into the water yet, since this momentarily takes up all his thought capacity. ] I mean, it's still just Roland, isn't it?
[ Having gotten that out of his system, Inigo finally moves to get into the water as well, stepping in it and then lowering himself so most of his body is submerged in the water - just to get that nice warm feeling.
Thankfully Tidus is spared from any remarks about his sit-floating attempts, since Inigo is very occupied by this topic. ]
Really? [ Inigo looks surprised, his eyes widening slightly. His head rising up from the water a bit more, so his shoulders are visible again. ]
No, he only told me that his hair had turned white from stress. Not being able to have long hair if you want to be taken seriously just seems odd to me.. There were plenty of men with hair longer than mine back in Ylisse.
[ Maybe it wasn't quite the standard, or default, but at the very least having Roland's ponytail wouldn't be seen as odd at all. ]
.. he seemed so fond of his hair too. [ That's just.. sad. Him having to sacrifice that longer hair in order to be able to chase his dreams. ]
[ 'He only told me that his hair had turned white from stress.' That gets the raise of an eyebrow from Tidus, but he's listening as Inigo goes on, doesn't go in to interrupt him. There's fancy sounds coming from the speakers of when Tidus decided to goof around with the ambience - if rushing water can be considered fancy. ]
I don't get it either. They had guys with long hair back in Spira too. [ Not to speak of his own old man. But he touches the side of his own hair, admits after considering it: ] I was thinking of seeing how my hair'd look long. Got nothing I need to dress up for.
[ At least, for the ends that can do with trimmed. But otherwise, why not? He's never really had it long before. ]
Anyhow, he's the leader of his own country. Who cares what your hair looks like when there's other stuff to be worrying about?
[ Inigo definitely agrees with that last sentiment. He doesn't think the people cared at all what his own father's hair looked like back home, after all..
But rather than replying to that part, he stays quiet for a moment. The pee-inducing background sounds that Tidus put on fill up the momentary silence. ]
I like the way your hair is now, though it's most likely just because I'm used to it. [ After all, he's never seen Tidus with anything different, other than it maybe being a bit shorter at first, or the colour being more even.. But never anything as drastically different as him having long hair. It's hard to imagine.
Still-- ]
But.. I told you before. You're really good-looking, Tidus. I'm sure you'd look incredibly handsome with long hair too. [ It's not just Inigo goofing around. He sounds very serious about it, though it's paired with a smile on his face, and him rising from the water even a bit more, as if to show his investment in this conversation. ] So if you want to try seeing how it looks, you should.
You in a good mood today? [ Sure, Inigo has said those things, but even in his usual earnest tone, Tidus leans his elbow along the side of the pool, hand dangling off the side; his own face pictured with a humoured grin. ] Okay. And what do you think I would look good in?
[ There's just a slight grin in response to that initial question. Maybe he is? Which may be strange, considering the whole situation going on around them on the train. People transforming like this is pretty concerning, but it's hard to think of that much right now. When it's just him and Tidus here, having the whole spa carriage to themselves. It's usually so busy here that Inigo doesn't even bother going, especially not with how much letting other people see his scars and skin bothers him.
But right now? This here, right now, is pretty nice.
Nice enough that Inigo doesn't insta-fluster at this talk. ]
Yes! I'm being serious, do you really not believe you'd look good in anything at all? [ Time for Inigo to be the supportive bro for once, even if Tidus doesn't really need it the way Inigo does. But he'll do it anyway. ] Your new outfits are all really nice too, they look good on you. I like the one with the jacket.
Which jacket? You can borrow it if that's what you're trying to say. [ No, he knows that isn't it, but if Inigo likes the jacket too, why not? He might as well put it out there. ] I can help you buy a few things. All you got was one dance outfit last time, didn't you? You deserve some good clothes too.
[ Is he going to turn this around and make this about Inigo? Absolutely. Tidus does as he pleases. ]
A jacket, some gym clothes... [ Hmm. He's looking Inigo over, which doesn't require much movement. But as he's sitting and looking at him now... ]
You know, I don't know what'd suit you. Your kinda style, you know? [ You know, you know? ] You should get anything that you like the look of.
I have some clothes still from last time..! [ He protests.
Even though he's aware it probably won't get very far with Tidus. Once Tidus has an idea, he's going to go through with it. Especially since he doesn't approve of Inigo's fun hat--
Besides, there's more important matters.
Not even to avoid having to talk about himself here. No, he's genuinely interested enough to bring it up again, even though the Tidus train of thought already seems to have moved on. ]
But..
[ A meaningful pause. Even the look in his eyes is a little softer for some reason. ]
.. Can I really borrow it? [ Wearing Tidus's jacket!!!! Inigo can't help it. The very thought of it is making him stupidly excited. ]
[ What's with that look? The way Inigo asks. Tidus likes it, though it makes him curious, a little bit confused -- but maybe it means that Inigo's actually into the idea, even if he needs to go through his protests about never spending anything for himself, first. Still, they might actually be getting to the agreeing part quicker that usual here.
How about that. ]
Sure, try it on. See how you like it. [ Wear it and then see if he wants to buy his own, right? Tidus can go along with that. ] Anything else you wanna try? I didn't really go for 'fancy'...
[ That is, anything special, his hands lifting some out of the water with the shake of his head. ]
No. Just that much is fine. [ Because Inigo's intention behind it definitely isn't trying it on to see how it looks on him. It has much more to do with the sentimental value behind it. Wearing something he knows Tidus has worn-- it makes him feel kind of fluttery on the inside.
.. but that's weird, right? It's probably weird. It makes Inigo grow quiet for a moment, letting the background music fill up the empty space in their conversation. ]
Hey, Tidus, um..
[ His voice trails off again, but Inigo scrapes all of his courage together to speak on instead of letting himself retreat into his shyness, his gaze traveling over to the other. ]
I know it's probably odd to bring this up out of nowhere, and it's not like I haven't said it before, but.. thanks for always being so nice and encouraging about everything. It just-- It means so much to do me that it feels like I should say it more regularly.
[ His brows lightly lift when he hears his name, quiet as he listens, curious from the get-go. And what he hears makes his expression visibly soften, the smile he wears widen.
It takes a moment, but Tidus moves closer to the space that Inigo occupies; water rippling as his body comes beside his, as he bumps his arm deliberately into his. ]
Well, if you should say it more, then maybe I should too. [ Because, after all: ] You're the same. You're a good guy, a good pal - I'm not doing anything you don't do too. I just wanna see you be happy - happy with yourself. It's all good to make others happy, but you're your own guy too.
[ He tilts his head, eyes following to fall on Inigo. He shows a side of teeth in his grin. ]
And that dance outfit looks amazing on you! I should make you buy a load more!
A load? [ Inigo parrots, but rather than protesting, he just lets out a laugh. ]
I don't think there even are that many dance outfits!
[ .. okay, so maybe it's a bit of a protest after all. Inigo moves sideways, lightly bumping his arm against Tidus's in return. ]
I'm trying to be happier with myself. [ Even though.. phew, boy, is that ever a work in progress. It's hard when your sense of self worth has only been crumbling away rather than building up over the years and years and years. ] I mean.. I'm dancing here on the train now, sometimes. That's crazy. And I only feel mildly embarrassed afterwards!
[ ... ]
Well, maybe a bit more than mildly. [ BUT STILL. The point is there, okay! It's all thanks to Tidus's help! ] Anyway-- the point is that you've got to be happy too!
[ Mildly. He'd bump at Inigo again just for that, but Tidus resists, at least swinging him a unimpressed but joking stare, a smirk under it. He's far from unimpressed, really - his pal's come a long way, and in shorter time than the guy thinks.
A hum vibrates from Tidus's throat though, as he leaves that behind - focuses on Inigo's so-called point. ]
I am happy! [ If he thinks about it even, letting his shoulders sink a little lower into the water... ] I know things are weird right now, but...I'm okay, you know? I'm alright! All I want to do is have a good time, and spend it with good friends. Chilling here in a tiny pool-- it'd be a lot better if it were bigger, [ if he was going to have one complaint!, ] but...
[ He lets his eyes close for a moment, tipping back his head. The pee noises ambience going in the background. ]
[ Inigo stares over at Tidus. Watching the other like that. His head tilted back slightly, his eyes closed. There's a lot of the usual mix of emotions as he watches the other's side profile like this. The usual thoughts about how handsome Tidus is, how being near or in the water always seems to bring it out even more. But mixed in with a feeling of contentment. Of just being happy when the other is happy.
If only things could always be like this. The two of them just sitting here, 'chilling', as Tidus calls it. Without having to feel bad, without having to worry.
(Does Inigo's chest feel lighter than it has during days prior? He doesn't know, can't actively notice.)
After a moment of silently staring, Inigo takes advantage of the fact that the two of them are so close right now and that there's some prime free real estate next to him, moving his head to let it rest on Tidus's shoulder - thankfully being right above the water level.
[ His face turns the small amount it needs to look at the sight Tidus knows he's going to find, without knocking his cheek into the head resting on him. And if he leans his own, he finds easy the top side of Inigo's to rest against. A small bubbling laugh creeping up his throat, but not really leaving, vibrating in there. ]
Hmmm...
[ It's a thoughtful agreement. There might be room for improvement here, though Tidus doesn't miss the opportunity to really his head against Inigo's. Enjoying this contact, as small as it is.
But it really is too small, isn't it? ]
Here- what about this?
[ His hand slides out from the water, arm with it, its movement slow with the weight on his shoulder Tidus doesn't want to rudely knock off. But if they disturb things just a bit, he can lift and extend his hand all the way to the other side of Inigo's shoulders, tug the two of them closer in; give Inigo the space above his chest and near to his collar bone for him to lean on, and to really get the both of them in there. ]
Isn't this better? Might be nicer in a bed. [ Or chair. Or basically, not water. But then again- ] Don't mind huddling up in a pool, do you?
[ Inigo repeats the word once he's settled in - allowing their positions to be disturbed only because he knows the ones about to come ought to be even better with Tidus's arm moving behind him like that.
And so, the moment that space is offered up to Inigo, he takes it. The way he moves in is almost like a snuggle, really, rubbing his head against Tidus a little as he tries to get as comfortable as possible. ]
You know who you're talking to, right? [ Inigo, the king of physical affection. With people around whom he isn't why about it, anyway. ] As if I'd ever mind huddling up anywhere.
[ He would huddle with people 24/7 if he could, please!!
But then again.. Tidus isn't just a person. It's not as if he could just be swapped with anyone else on the train in this moment. No, Inigo knows well by now that there's a particular reason why his heart is starting to beat faster now the two of them are so close. And it has everything to do with the fact that it's Tidus.
It's something he's usually been hesitant on speaking of. There were just too many worries holding him back. And while even now saying everything is too hard, feels too strange to do out of nowhere, something about his head and chest feels a little lighter.
Like maybe he can at least say a bit more than usually. Even if it's admitted a tad more quietly. ]
.. And I like doing this the best with you, anyway.
[ He hugs, sure - he hugs with Taiki, and he'll hug any of his friends. But does Inigo ever cosy up to other people as often as he seems to get with him? Not that he can pin this particular cuddle-up onto Inigo, but he's sure that out of anyone on the train by now, he's the one to get into this positions most of all with Inigo.
Tidus sighs, a little dramatically, humour on his voice. ]
And I was thinking I could find you a cute boyfriend to keep you happy. Like maybe... that guy whose hair you did up that one time? What do you think of him? Or the guy who helped with the bear?
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[ There's the suggestion of a question there, a point to go on top of Inigo's own and what he's already stated. But Tidus is being careful, picky with what he says than what he could be - for maybe once in his life.
Because he can see that Inigo's brain is still reeling through this, and Tidus can't help but to take another look over of Inigo either, of that particular nasty mark he remembers being bitten into his shoulder - but he's not the guy who's seen them all his life, been affected by them being there, so his eyes find themselves back to Inigo's quickly, easily.
The how and why aren't really so important to him than the process Inigo is going through currently. ]
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[ While it's still a little unsure, he doesn't seem to entirely dislike it, at least. It's just weird - and honestly, Inigo never really did imagine his scars disappearing, let alone thinking about what that'd be like after.
Hence why his reaction is so quiet. Like his brain machine is turning gears rapidly inside of his head, yet still not arriving at an answer.
But Inigo exhales, seeming to snap out of it a little. ]
It's not a big deal anyway. I'm imagining all those people who had their ages changed will go back to normal soon enough, right? [ .. hopefully, anyway. Roland may have seemed comfortable looking his true age, but Inigo can't imagine what it'd be like if some people would just stay kids forever now.. ] This probably has something to do with it too.
[ Even if he doesn't know what. Or how. ]
So they'll be back at some point. [ Then why think about it too much? Even if he does finally reach the point where he likes it, he'll just be disappointed if they return. Inigo shakes his head, reaching out to grab one of the trunks and change into it. ]
Let's just get into the water and enjoy the quiet here while we can!
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What if everyone did stay younger? [ What then. ] What even happened anyway? You hear anything? I dunno why a train would make people younger...
[ But if it wasn't the train... ]
What if -- someone put a potion into the food! And that's what happened!
[ Intentional food messing! ]
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[ Even though that doesn't make sense entirely, and Inigo realises it as he's saying it out loud. Didn't they have a bit more of a warning for the voidstorm last time around? Or rather, they at least knew that was what was happening. Right now there didn't seem to be any warning. They just woke up, and things suddenly were like this.
Which makes Tidus's explanation, in turn, not seem all that impossible. ]
But you really think someone could've done this? [ Rather than sounding sceptical, Inigo sounds a little worried as he puts on the trunks. ] On purpose? Why would they?
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See what happens? Easier than just asking everyone if you can go and pour your potion into the food. Then you get more volunteers.
[ ''Volunteers''. But actually, didn't they have chicken yesterday? Hmm, maybe they put it in the water instead?
It's a half-hearted thought at the very least, which might be why Tidus isn't all that concerned over the idea that someone on the train would be okay with testing their concoctions on the entire train. Plus, what's he supposed to do?? ]
Webs could magic an entire train, but she got affected too!
[ not to accuse her or anything ]
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[ Inigo is quiet for a moment, contemplating it. He can't say he likes the idea of someone doing that to all of them without asking, but considering some of the types on this train.. It's not exactly impossible.
Like potential culprit #1 Tidus is identifying here. Or.. ]
Senku also got turned into a little kid. [ Inigo likes to think Senku is better than that, but.. you know. He sometimes sees things in wild ways. ] But I guess there are plenty of people on the train we don't know all that well who could've done it..
[ Having finished changing into the trunks, Inigo finally hobbles after Tidus, until he's right next to the other. Watching Tidus as he's quite literally testing the waters. ]
.. Is the water any good? [ NOT THAT THEIR MANY TOPIC OF DISCUSSION ISN'T IMPORTANT, BUT. You know! He doesn't want to burn himself! ]
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But he doesn't have a moment to voice that as Inigo comes over, asking his question as Tidus puts in more than a foot. Lowering down, both legs slipping in- ]
Feels good! Come on!
[ He can nudge Inigo with an elbow here, just before he finishes getting in the water and letting his arms spread out. There's no way of really floating except in an awkward sitting position - which Tidus tries. ]
So. [ So. ] What do you think about old Roland?
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[ Having gotten that out of his system, Inigo finally moves to get into the water as well, stepping in it and then lowering himself so most of his body is submerged in the water - just to get that nice warm feeling.
Thankfully Tidus is spared from any remarks about his sit-floating attempts, since Inigo is very occupied by this topic. ]
Though he seems pretty happy about it.
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[ Older, more aligned with his real age. Tidus stops his goofing off with his legs, settling better against the edge of the pool. ]
Doesn't he look wrong, without the ponytail? I think that's it. [ There's just...no hair! ]
He told me he had to get rid of it to get taken seriously. Can you believe it?
[ Why would anyone judge a guy for his hair being long? Roland's world is weird. ]
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No, he only told me that his hair had turned white from stress. Not being able to have long hair if you want to be taken seriously just seems odd to me.. There were plenty of men with hair longer than mine back in Ylisse.
[ Maybe it wasn't quite the standard, or default, but at the very least having Roland's ponytail wouldn't be seen as odd at all. ]
.. he seemed so fond of his hair too. [ That's just.. sad. Him having to sacrifice that longer hair in order to be able to chase his dreams. ]
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I don't get it either. They had guys with long hair back in Spira too. [ Not to speak of his own old man. But he touches the side of his own hair, admits after considering it: ] I was thinking of seeing how my hair'd look long. Got nothing I need to dress up for.
[ At least, for the ends that can do with trimmed. But otherwise, why not? He's never really had it long before. ]
Anyhow, he's the leader of his own country. Who cares what your hair looks like when there's other stuff to be worrying about?
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But rather than replying to that part, he stays quiet for a moment. The
pee-inducingbackground sounds that Tidus put on fill up the momentary silence. ]I like the way your hair is now, though it's most likely just because I'm used to it. [ After all, he's never seen Tidus with anything different, other than it maybe being a bit shorter at first, or the colour being more even.. But never anything as drastically different as him having long hair. It's hard to imagine.
Still-- ]
But.. I told you before. You're really good-looking, Tidus. I'm sure you'd look incredibly handsome with long hair too. [ It's not just Inigo goofing around. He sounds very serious about it, though it's paired with a smile on his face, and him rising from the water even a bit more, as if to show his investment in this conversation. ] So if you want to try seeing how it looks, you should.
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You in a good mood today? [ Sure, Inigo has said those things, but even in his usual earnest tone, Tidus leans his elbow along the side of the pool, hand dangling off the side; his own face pictured with a humoured grin. ] Okay. And what do you think I would look good in?
Anything at all?
[ let's do this, bro. ]
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But right now? This here, right now, is pretty nice.
Nice enough that Inigo doesn't insta-fluster at this talk. ]
Yes! I'm being serious, do you really not believe you'd look good in anything at all? [ Time for Inigo to be the supportive bro for once, even if Tidus doesn't really need it the way Inigo does. But he'll do it anyway. ] Your new outfits are all really nice too, they look good on you. I like the one with the jacket.
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Which jacket? You can borrow it if that's what you're trying to say. [ No, he knows that isn't it, but if Inigo likes the jacket too, why not? He might as well put it out there. ] I can help you buy a few things. All you got was one dance outfit last time, didn't you? You deserve some good clothes too.
[ Is he going to turn this around and make this about Inigo? Absolutely. Tidus does as he pleases. ]
A jacket, some gym clothes... [ Hmm. He's looking Inigo over, which doesn't require much movement. But as he's sitting and looking at him now... ]
You know, I don't know what'd suit you. Your kinda style, you know? [ You know, you know? ] You should get anything that you like the look of.
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Even though he's aware it probably won't get very far with Tidus. Once Tidus has an idea, he's going to go through with it. Especially since he doesn't approve of Inigo's fun hat--
Besides, there's more important matters.
Not even to avoid having to talk about himself here. No, he's genuinely interested enough to bring it up again, even though the Tidus train of thought already seems to have moved on. ]
But..
[ A meaningful pause. Even the look in his eyes is a little softer for some reason. ]
.. Can I really borrow it? [ Wearing Tidus's jacket!!!! Inigo can't help it. The very thought of it is making him stupidly excited. ]
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[ What's with that look? The way Inigo asks. Tidus likes it, though it makes him curious, a little bit confused -- but maybe it means that Inigo's actually into the idea, even if he needs to go through his protests about never spending anything for himself, first. Still, they might actually be getting to the agreeing part quicker that usual here.
How about that. ]
Sure, try it on. See how you like it. [ Wear it and then see if he wants to buy his own, right? Tidus can go along with that. ] Anything else you wanna try? I didn't really go for 'fancy'...
[ That is, anything special, his hands lifting some out of the water with the shake of his head. ]
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No. Just that much is fine. [ Because Inigo's intention behind it definitely isn't trying it on to see how it looks on him. It has much more to do with the sentimental value behind it. Wearing something he knows Tidus has worn-- it makes him feel kind of fluttery on the inside.
.. but that's weird, right? It's probably weird. It makes Inigo grow quiet for a moment, letting the background music fill up the empty space in their conversation. ]
Hey, Tidus, um..
[ His voice trails off again, but Inigo scrapes all of his courage together to speak on instead of letting himself retreat into his shyness, his gaze traveling over to the other. ]
I know it's probably odd to bring this up out of nowhere, and it's not like I haven't said it before, but.. thanks for always being so nice and encouraging about everything. It just-- It means so much to do me that it feels like I should say it more regularly.
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It takes a moment, but Tidus moves closer to the space that Inigo occupies; water rippling as his body comes beside his, as he bumps his arm deliberately into his. ]
Well, if you should say it more, then maybe I should too. [ Because, after all: ] You're the same. You're a good guy, a good pal - I'm not doing anything you don't do too. I just wanna see you be happy - happy with yourself. It's all good to make others happy, but you're your own guy too.
[ He tilts his head, eyes following to fall on Inigo. He shows a side of teeth in his grin. ]
And that dance outfit looks amazing on you! I should make you buy a load more!
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I don't think there even are that many dance outfits!
[ .. okay, so maybe it's a bit of a protest after all. Inigo moves sideways, lightly bumping his arm against Tidus's in return. ]
I'm trying to be happier with myself. [ Even though.. phew, boy, is that ever a work in progress. It's hard when your sense of self worth has only been crumbling away rather than building up over the years and years and years. ] I mean.. I'm dancing here on the train now, sometimes. That's crazy. And I only feel mildly embarrassed afterwards!
[ ... ]
Well, maybe a bit more than mildly. [ BUT STILL. The point is there, okay! It's all thanks to Tidus's help! ] Anyway-- the point is that you've got to be happy too!
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A hum vibrates from Tidus's throat though, as he leaves that behind - focuses on Inigo's so-called point. ]
I am happy! [ If he thinks about it even, letting his shoulders sink a little lower into the water... ] I know things are weird right now, but...I'm okay, you know? I'm alright! All I want to do is have a good time, and spend it with good friends. Chilling here in a tiny pool-- it'd be a lot better if it were bigger, [ if he was going to have one complaint!, ] but...
[ He lets his eyes close for a moment, tipping back his head. The
pee noisesambience going in the background. ]...Yeah. This is good.
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If only things could always be like this. The two of them just sitting here, 'chilling', as Tidus calls it. Without having to feel bad, without having to worry.
(Does Inigo's chest feel lighter than it has during days prior? He doesn't know, can't actively notice.)
After a moment of silently staring, Inigo takes advantage of the fact that the two of them are so close right now and that there's some prime free real estate next to him, moving his head to let it rest on Tidus's shoulder - thankfully being right above the water level.
He releases a breath. ]
This is better.
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Hmmm...
[ It's a thoughtful agreement. There might be room for improvement here, though Tidus doesn't miss the opportunity to really his head against Inigo's. Enjoying this contact, as small as it is.
But it really is too small, isn't it? ]
Here- what about this?
[ His hand slides out from the water, arm with it, its movement slow with the weight on his shoulder Tidus doesn't want to rudely knock off. But if they disturb things just a bit, he can lift and extend his hand all the way to the other side of Inigo's shoulders, tug the two of them closer in; give Inigo the space above his chest and near to his collar bone for him to lean on, and to really get the both of them in there. ]
Isn't this better? Might be nicer in a bed. [ Or chair. Or basically, not water. But then again- ] Don't mind huddling up in a pool, do you?
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[ Inigo repeats the word once he's settled in - allowing their positions to be disturbed only because he knows the ones about to come ought to be even better with Tidus's arm moving behind him like that.
And so, the moment that space is offered up to Inigo, he takes it. The way he moves in is almost like a snuggle, really, rubbing his head against Tidus a little as he tries to get as comfortable as possible. ]
You know who you're talking to, right? [ Inigo, the king of physical affection. With people around whom he isn't why about it, anyway. ] As if I'd ever mind huddling up anywhere.
[ He would huddle with people 24/7 if he could, please!!
But then again.. Tidus isn't just a person. It's not as if he could just be swapped with anyone else on the train in this moment. No, Inigo knows well by now that there's a particular reason why his heart is starting to beat faster now the two of them are so close. And it has everything to do with the fact that it's Tidus.
It's something he's usually been hesitant on speaking of. There were just too many worries holding him back. And while even now saying everything is too hard, feels too strange to do out of nowhere, something about his head and chest feels a little lighter.
Like maybe he can at least say a bit more than usually. Even if it's admitted a tad more quietly. ]
.. And I like doing this the best with you, anyway.
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[ He hugs, sure - he hugs with Taiki, and he'll hug any of his friends. But does Inigo ever cosy up to other people as often as he seems to get with him? Not that he can pin this particular cuddle-up onto Inigo, but he's sure that out of anyone on the train by now, he's the one to get into this positions most of all with Inigo.
Tidus sighs, a little dramatically, humour on his voice. ]
And I was thinking I could find you a cute boyfriend to keep you happy. Like maybe... that guy whose hair you did up that one time? What do you think of him? Or the guy who helped with the bear?
[ Nudge nudge. Huh huh? ]
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