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CHAPTER SEVEN || DOROTHEA

SYPNOSIS (of chapter). in which conversations are all you need for this joint bachelor party.

SYPNOSIS (of series). breaking up with your first love was heartbreaking, but not as heartbreaking as getting invited to his wedding after years of not seeing him. that is, until things seem to be easier when you encounter a certain guest, who could end up being more than just a blooming friend to you.

CHARACTERS. kamisato ayato, diluc ragnvindr (w/ gn!reader)

CONTENT. angst/fluff, modern!au, ooc ayato (?), mentions of breakup, crying, minor character death, mentions of car accidents, not proofread

PENPALS. @scaraslover @dawgimsohot @kazu-topia @aqualesha @serami00 @serenareiss @hiqhkey @emperatris-rinaka @bystander36 @irisxiel @ladycoleigh @034ven @dear-dairiess @luv3rxcha @hadesaedes @chiro-chiro-kun @hersscherofyatta @mariusvonhangme @zuyoo @nejibot @hoshikistarlette @solaaresque @crowbird @lordbugs @estelwrld @reinvqx @chihawari @moonlightaangel @lonelysimpfor2dmen @sniffoat @mxsomn @jiminscarmex @alice0blog @ylimeprive @irethepotatosblog @irethepotato @elychee @rion-s @denkineptune @starforecasts @franini @sophisticatedleslie @thedivinepriestess @smashsubs @httpmitsuya @cottonkendi @uchihaeirin @abvolat @kokushiboswife @kyomihann @prplbunny @crowleysthings @axeybelle09 @chimsblogg @ys14a @leaunce @q-zrs @phoenixdrake88-blog @giyusimpsassemble @saving-for-xiao @strawberryuns @selfinsertintrovert @sachispet (come visit the taglist post if you'd like to be tagged!)

WORD COUNT. 6.1k words

LINKS. EVERMORE MASTERLIST \ MAIN MASTERLIST \ EVERMORE SURVEY (q&a)

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POST-SCRIPT. i'm not sure if ill be able to post anything next week due to my last exam week, but i promise you guys that i'll start posting frequently once my school ends next month :DD

You don’t feel like you want to attend the joint bachelor party anymore.

Ever since Ayato talked to you by the elevator, you felt like you just wanted a time of peace for today and not face him again, your head still in shambles from what you discovered.

Arranged marriages.. How depressing..

What’s worse is that Chisato, Ayato’s fiancee and future wife, isn’t probably aware of how you’re Ayato’s ex who has come to his wedding, making you wonder and dread just how the poor woman reacts when she finds out.

The last thing you need right now is for things to get worse if people knew about you and Ayato’s past relationship and misunderstood things.

“Welcome, ( Name ) and Mr. Zhongli!” Thoma greeted you two as you entered the Grand Goth Hotel’s function room, you feel amazed by how the room turned out. Thoma really outdid himself in decorating the place, it’s even more magnificent than the hotel’s lobby area.

It’s as if the room is the “night version” of the lobby, with some furnitures and setups glowing beautifully in blue, the roof looking as if there’s stars on them, beautiful flowers made of washi papers displayed by the center of all the tables, chandeliers that are crystal instead of gold, round tables around the room with the wedding couple’s being in the center of it all, everything in the party is definitely praise-worthy and enough for the Kamisato family.

“This place is really amazing, I’m impressed by you, Thoma.” You complimented, too awestruck by the party’s aesthetic to notice the way the blonde-haired man’s face flushes red, flustered by your praise.

“I-I’m glad you like it, ( Name )! I made sure your table is somewhere near the buffet and bar area since I know you’d definitely try to go and get the food often, you can find your seat by the names displayed around the tables.” He spoke, pointing at where your table assumedly is.

Your eyes sparkle. “You’re truly an angel sent from Celestia, Thoma.” You then look at Zhongli, who’s simply watching your interaction with Thoma silently. “Shall we go then, Zhongli?” You ask.

He nods immediately, giving you an encouraging smile. “We shall.”

You look back at Thoma. “We’ll be going then, we don’t want to disrupt you from greeting the next guests.” You said with a small bow.

The blonde-haired man nods in understanding. “I understand, you can find me if there’s anything you want, I’d be happy to help.” Thoma spoke enthusiastically with a thumbs up.

“Alright, see you then Thoma.”

As you and Zhongli are on your way towards your respective tables, your eyes immediately land on the foods displayed by the buffet area. The table was long, filled with countless foods from Mondstadt, Liyue, and Inazuma, waiting to be feast upon by the guests as servers were stationed nearby to serve them.

Your mouth waters at the sight of the delicious meals that you miss from Inazuma.

Soon I’ll have that food in my mouth, you thought to yourself excitedly before you started scanning the names displayed on the tables in hopes of looking for yours and Zhongli.

Thankfully, it didn’t take long to find your table thanks to Zhongli, who instantly pulls your chair for you to sit on, to which you oblige with a quiet “thank you.”

As you seated, you couldn’t help but look at the others displayed on your table, curious to know who would be the guests that’ll be seating beside you and your plus one.

Your eyes widens when you saw one particular name you haven’t seen in ages–

“Who knew Kamisato Ayato would have the balls to invite his ex to his wedding?”

What on earth is he doing here?! You thought, turning around on your seat to see the one person you never thought you’d see anymore.

“...Scaramouche?!” You cried out, standing up immediately as your smile became wide. “Oh wow, it is you!”

Scaramouche rolls his eyes. “Yes, yes. No need to yell my name out loud, I don’t want my sister to know that I’m here, she’ll probably scold me for using the wedding as an excuse to ditch my work.” He slightly opens his arms as an invitation as he speaks, and you instantly hug him excitedly. Despite his rude attitude, the man was sort of tolerable and not as bad as people painted him out to be.

“I can’t believe you’re actually here! What brings you to Ayato’s wedding?” You asked, breaking away from the short hug you and Scaramouche had.

Besides Thoma, Ei was another childhood friend of yours. Thanks to her, you managed to meet Scaramouche, the youngest sibling in the Shogun family and is one year younger than you and Ei.

Despite knowing Ei for so long, you weren’t exactly considered as friends with her brother (but not enemies either) until college whereas the both of you became close after seeing Scaramouche in an… interesting predicament.

“He didn’t invite me if that’s what you’re wondering,” He spoke, causing you to laugh lightheartedly. “I was only dragged here by my colleague. He begged me to come because he didn’t want to look like a loner.”

Before you could question who his colleague is, another voice chimes into your conversation.

“Is that what you’ve been telling others when they ask why you’re here?!” Your eyes widens when you noticed Tartaglia – the ginger-haired man who gave Zhongli breakfast – walking towards you and Scaramouche. “I only invited you because I couldn’t think of anyone at work who isn’t busy. Don’t flatter yourself, little guy.”

You watched in amusement as Tartaglia wrapped his arm around Scaramouche’s neck and ruffled his hair, causing Scaramouche to groan and try to get away from the taller man’s grip in irritation. “Do that again and I’ll leave before the wedding, loner.”

“Hello, Childe.” Zhongli greeted, causing Tartaglia to look at your plus one in surprise.

“Ah, Mr. Zhongli! I didn’t think we’d be at the same table.” Tartaglia commented. enthusiastically before letting go of Scaramouche, who immediately started glaring towards his colleague while fixing his hair. “I also didn’t expect Scaramouche to know your friend. ( Name ) was it?”

You nodded in response, bowing politely at the man. “That’s my name. I’ve heard about you from Zhongli, I’m glad he made a new friend from this trip.”

He smiles, eyeing towards your friend’s direction all the while he and Scaramouche sat down on their seats – with Scaramouche beside you. “Well, you can say that I, uh, have heard of him from a mutual friend of his. He’s quite impressive, I would’ve hired him in my company if he didn’t have a job.”

Soon after Tartaglia’s comment, the last two guests who are on the same table as yours arrived.

“My, my, and here I thought Ei’s dearest brother hated events.” Miko comments as she and Ei stand near their seats, causing you to wave at them. “How did a rascal like you manage to get to the wedding?”

Scaramouche scoffs. “Mind your business, woman.”

The pink-haired woman giggled, pulling her and Ei’s chairs before sitting down. “You still never learned, haven’t I told you to respect your seniors?” She playfully teased.

“You’re no longer a Student Council officer, what’s the point?”

“The point is that I’m still older than you!”

“One year older. It’s not like you’re an old lady.”

“Aww, how flattering! You think I’m young?”

As Scaramouche and Miko continued bantering to one another while Tartaglia started talking to Zhongli, you couldn’t help but feel as if you’re being watched by someone. Is it Ayato again…? Please don’t tell me he’s going to try and talk to me.. You thought to yourself nervously.

You looked around the room to look for the groom, only to find the blue-haired man talking to some of his guests by their table, his back facing towards your direction.

If it’s not him.. then who?

“( Name ), are you alright?” Ei spoke up, causing Scaramouche and Miko’s banter as well as Zhongli’s conversation with Tartaglia to falter for a moment and look at you when the purple-haired woman voices her concern.

You blinked a few times before looking at them back with a surprised look. “O-Oh, I’m alright. I was just spacing out, that’s all.” You reassured, rubbing the back of your neck with a sheepish smile.

They didn’t believe you, but they didn’t try to bring it up. “You should sleep more, ( Name ). Your sleep schedule sometimes worries me.” Ei spoke.

Miko laughs. “Says the one who has the worst sleep schedule.”

“This is not about me, Miko.” Ei spoke, looking away from Miko in embarrassment.

You couldn’t help but snort a little. “Alright, I’ll try not to destroy my sleep schedule.” You said to Ei.

Maybe I was just overthinking about it, You thought, trying not to think about the feeling of being watched.

While waiting for the party and the buffet to start, you decided to have conversations with Ei and the others to pass time, excited to feast on the buffet. Throughout said conversations, you found out Scaramouche didn’t actually arrive at the wedding on the first day of the week and had only arrived just today, making sense as to why Tartaglia has been sitting alone on his table during breakfast.

Surprisingly, Zhongli once associated with the company Tartaglia and Scaramouche worked for for unknown reasons besides the fact that he had chatted with the CEO, who was known for her strong determination and cold personality.

After many minutes had passed, the party began.

“Good evening, welcome to the joint bachelor party!” Thoma spoke through the mic as everyone gave him an applause. “I would like to thank you all for joining the beautiful wedding between Kamisato Ayato and Hiiragi Chisato, we’re glad to have you here.”

You eyed Ayato's table as Thoma continued his speech, only for your eyes to land on hers.

Is Chisato… staring at you?

Your shoulders tenses up when you realize the bride’s eyes are on you, confused as to why she’s now paying attention to you. Did she find out?

You then pretended you didn’t notice, looking back at where Thoma is while praying to Celestia above that she won’t do anything.

“Now as you may know, most bachelor parties include games and even performances from others, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do!” He explains, causing some – especially Itto – to gasp in excitement. “Of course, everyone doesn’t have to participate if they don’t want to, that’s why we provided the buffet area and bar area for you guys to enjoy as you watch others participate in our games.”

You smiled when you spotted Itto and Yoimiya giving each other bets on which one of them was going to win all the while Tartaglia removes his tuxedo jacket to participate as well. As much as you want to join at least one game, you want to eat more.

As though Zhongli had read your mind, he suddenly asks you. “Are you going to the buffet now?”

You nodded in response, standing up from your seat the moment a lot of people stood up as well to participate in the first game. “I’ll be quick, do you want me to get you anything from the buffet?”

Before a word could slip from Zhongli’s mouth, Tartaglia interrupts the conversation. “Mr. Zhongli, we gotta bring you to the trivia game! You’ll definitely win since you’re like a walking encyclopedia, haha!” He said.

“I’m afraid I’d like to pass on this on–”

“Oh and I forgot to mention, the game’s reward is 100k Mora!” Thoma spoke, the amount caused a few, if not all, to cheer loudly.

“...Perhaps it won’t hurt to join, Childe.”

You snorted with laughter when you saw Zhongli removing his tuxedo jacket as well and placing it around his seat, walking side by side with Tartaglia towards the open space where the game takes place.

“Who knew the Kamisato and Hiiragi family would throw games.” Miko comments with an amused hum as she and Ei watch from their seats.

You then look at Scaramouche, who’s currently uninterested in the event going on. “You don’t want to join?” You ask.

Scaramouche scoffs. “As if. I’m only here out of courtesy for the sake of my family.”

You don’t believe a word he said, remembering the time back then when you and Scaramouche got involved in a trivia night at a restaurant near the university, leading him to become competitive and win. It’s safe to say you weren’t surprised when you see his name – or his alias, rather–on the board of the trivia night every time you visit the restaurant, a sign that he’s been visiting for it.

Still, you knew not to push him further, thinking that he decided to not participate for the sake of protecting his dignity. “Suit yourself. Do you want me to get you anything from the buffet?”

Scaramouche shook his head in response, his eyes looking at where the game was.

Without another question in mind, you decided to make a beeline to the buffet area, finding the urge to skip your steps in excitement as the aroma of your delicious native food grew stronger and stronger until you found yourself standing in front of the displayed food.

“Good evening, Mx.! Which one would you like for the night?” The server asks with a polite smile.

–

By the time you get your hands on the foods you like, you try to head back to the table and watch the game, only to stop your tracks when you catch a certain red-haired man serving drinks by the bar.

Wow, they really got Diluc Ragnvindr to serve drinks for their joint party?! You thought in shock, grabbing a bite of your food before heading towards the bar area instead of your table, wanting to have a quick chat with the man.

“Mr. Ragnvindr! Hey!” You greeted, causing Diluc to look away from his customers and look at your direction in surprise.

“Oh, greetings Mx. ( Last Name ).” He greeted politely. “What would you like for tonight?”

“Any juice would do, please. I don’t think I’m in the mood for some alcohol.” You replied, sitting down on a stool as you placed your meal by the counter. “Mind if I stay here for a bit and chat?”

Diluc nods in response, turning around to start making your drink. “Go ahead. Don’t mind me working while you’re at it.”

You took another bite of your food, humming in delight at the taste of your favorite food from your homeland. It’s been so long!

“I didn’t know Mr. Kamisato hired you to be the bartender. How are you?”

“I’m alright, to say the least,” He nods in acknowledgement towards a guest who ordered a drink. “How about you? Are you.. Feeling better?” He asks, referring to the time when you were crying in front of him in the elevator after feeling overwhelmed by Ayato and his father.

You feel a bit embarrassed when you remember that. “I-I uh… I can manage.” You answered, shaking your thoughts away and hoping you’d forget about it.

He then serves you your drink, causing you to thank him gratefully and take a sip.

“This is one great beverage.” You complimented to change the topic, taking more sips of the drink. “Have you been working in the company for a long time?”

Diluc started making another drink for the other guests. “Yes. I took over the company when I was 18 years old–”

You nearly choked on your drink. “18 years old?! That’s so young!” You exclaimed, only to cover your mouth when you realized how loud you were.

You smiled apologetically to the guests beside you who looked at you strangely, looking back at Diluc and started speaking more quietly. “Seriously though, 18? I’m starting to respect you a lot more, Mr. Ragnvindr.”

His mouth twitches up slightly. “Are you saying you didn’t respect me in the beginning?”

“Well, you did bump into my shoulder back then and didn’t apologize – and may I add about the fact that your shoulders are so.. broad? It felt like a bowling ball hit me!”

He stopped making the drink for a moment, taken back by your bold words. Meanwhile, a guest beside you tries to hide his laughter from your comment.

“Well,” Diluc spoke hesitantly, clearing his throat as he proceeded to continue making the drink, “what matters is that I’ve apologized properly, no?”

You took another bite of your meal, nodding in agreement with a smile. “Of course.”

He suddenly asks you a question himself, focused on pouring the finished drink on a glass. “What about you? Where do you work?”

“In Liyue.” You answered quickly, watching as the guest took the glass from Diluc and thanked him. “I originally came from Inazuma but moved to Liyue because of it.”

“Do you miss your home?”

“Everyday.” You glance at where the game is currently being held, quickly spotting Zhongli and your friends participating with determination around them. “Though it’s not like I desperately want to go there. I’m happy in Liyue.”

“That’s good.” Another guest came by the bar and ordered a drink, causing Diluc to start making a drink once more. “It’s your turn to ask a question now.” He spoke.

Somehow, one supposedly quick chat became a q&a conversation.

There was an unspoken agreement between the both of you to not ask anything about your personal lives seeing how all of your questions aren’t related to something about it. Regardless, you still got to know more with the man. You found out he prefers juice more over alcohol, had a pet turtle but currently has a pet bird called Vanessa, and has traveled around the world – something that he was willing to indulge you with as you ask questions about the nations he visited. You’d like to admit that he was also funny despite it being unintentional. You honestly couldn’t believe you’re getting along with Diluc so well – it felt like you could talk to him for hours.

It didn’t take long before you realized your conversation with him lasted for a long time until there was no longer food on your plate.

“I’ll be back to get more food, mind keeping an eye on my drink?” You ask, hopping off from the stool you were sitting on with your empty plate in hand as Diluc obliges to your request. You glance at where the next game is currently in, only to spot Itto and Miko having an eating competition much to your surprise. Are they having a rematch?!

You turned back and continued heading towards the buffet area, thinking of the next meals you can eat. Maybe I should try some of Mondstadt’s food with a mix of Inazuma snacks as well.. You thought.

“Welcome back, Mx.! What would you like this time?” The same server from before greeted you, and you smiled politely.

“I’ll have the…” As you point out the foods you’d like on your plate for the server to give you, you couldn’t help but feel as if there’s someone watching you. Is it her again..?

When the server starts grabbing the food for you, you couldn’t help but glance at Chisato’s direction with worried eyes, shoulders tensing when you notice her eyes on you again. What does she want? Or is she just looking at the food in front of you? You aren’t too sure, but whatever it is, you couldn’t really investigate, knowing it would do nothing but embarrass yourself and make a scene.

“Here it is. Enjoy eating, Mx.!” Your thoughts were instantly interrupted by the server, who seems to not notice your gaze in another direction.

“Th..Thank you.” You said before walking back to the bar, your mind was purged with thoughts on why Chisato was staring at you. Unlike earlier, you couldn’t ignore your thoughts. This should be a coincidence, right?

You arrive in the bar just in time when the game ends, with Itto standing proudly with his prize as Miko watches from behind in amusement. Diluc was quick to notice your quick change of demeanor, causing him to slightly furrow his brows in confusion and worry.

“Here’s your drink.” He spoke, placing your untouched drink in front of you as you sat down on your stool. “Did something happen?”

“Ah, no. It’s nothing.” You were quick to respond to his question, covering up your conflicted look with a smile as you tried to think of an excuse. “I was just uh, bummed that the buffet ran out of a certain dish and are currently making them right now.” You lied.

“I see…” Diluc hums in understanding, now wiping a glass. “No worries, I’m sure you’ll get the food once it’s finished. Would you like a refill on your drink, by the way?”

You glance down at your drink, seeing how it’s almost empty. “Yes please.” Maybe I’m just overthinking about this… You thought to yourself, watching as the bartender fills up your drink with juice.

The next hour felt like a blur.

You continued talking to Diluc as usual all the while the games went on, taking turns in asking each other questions until nothing was left for you to ask. There were times when you almost spaced out from thinking about Chisato, but thankfully, Diluc made you wake up to reality.

You then decided to go to the bathroom nearby, hopping off from your seat once more. “I’ll go to the bathroom for a while, I’ll leave these with you, if that’s alright.” You said.

He nods in response. “Of course. Take your time as long as you need it.”

Without another word, you went off to find the bathroom, heading out to the doors that led you to the hallway that contains the bathroom, kitchen, storage room, and the terrace. Despite being a bit far from where the venue is, the sound of Thoma’s voice could still be heard. It seems that the games have finally ended and the performances would be next to be in the spotlight.

When you finally found the bathroom, you immediately opened it and went in.

After a few minutes, you finished your business and walked out from the comfort room, feeling refreshed and ready to go back to the venue. You wondered if Diluc would ever be able to go off from his shift and watch the upcoming performances with you–

What am I thinking? You thought, furrowing your eyebrows to yourself. It’s not like something would come out from hanging out with someone like Diluc after the wedding. You’re pretty sure he’s a super busy person and only had the luxury of time to talk to someone like you, an unimportant person with no company nor fortune–

You stopped your tracks when you heard the sounds of a woman sobbing.

You realized you’re near the terrace, causing you to assume that the woman who’s sobbing is there crying for reasons that you can’t pry on. How pitiful, you thought with a concerned frown.

When you glance at the woman, your eyes widen at the familiar figure of Ayato’s future wife.

…Why is a bride crying at a supposedly happy occasion?

You didn’t have to think deeply on that answer, swallowing the lump down your throat. There’s no way that she doesn’t know about you and Ayato now.

You aren’t sure if you should come to the woman and offer her your unused handkerchief or not. If you wouldn’t, your conscience would’ve eaten you alive. If you would, you’d have the possibility of embarrassing yourself or making Chisato angry due to you not minding your business–

“Mx. ( Last Name )?” You flinched in surprise when you heard the bride’s voice, causing you to look at her with wide eyes.

Chisato stood by the rails, staring at you with the same expression as you as well. “I.. uh..” She spoke, unsure what to say to you as she tried to wipe her overflowing tears away.

“I apologize, I didn’t mean to catch you off-guard, Ms. Hiiragi.” You spoke, bowing politely.

“N-No, it’s alright,” She spoke softly with a sniff. “It’s my fault for crying in such a public space, I didn’t mean to be a burden for anyone – let alone my guest.”

You shook your head reassuringly. “There’s no need to apologize, and you’re not a burden to me that’s for sure.” You suddenly took a few steps forward towards the bride, offering her your untouched handkerchief that you brought out from your pocket. “Here, you can use this to wipe your tears away.”

Chisato hesitated for a moment before letting out a soft sigh in defeat, shyly grabbing it from your hand. “Thank you…”

You smiled politely in response, deciding that you should leave her alone and go back to the bar–

However, you stopped yourself from walking out, not when you heard her speaking once more. “Could you…” She stops talking for a moment, as if she now wants to take it back. “Could you answer me something, if you don’t mind…?”

Your shoulders tenses.

“...I don’t mind…”

Silence fell between the two of you for a few seconds, the sounds of the music from the venue was the only thing that was heard besides the busy streets outside the hotel.

Chisato inhales sharply. “Are you and Ayato together?”

You processed the question, swallowing the lump down your throat. “...Back then in college.”

Too scared to look at the woman in her eyes, you turned around and closed the doors behind you, not wanting anyone to hear what you know will be a long conversation.

“Before… Before my relationship with him?” Chisato asks, her tone sounded fearful, as if she’ll hear something she doesn’t want to hear.

You nodded in response, slowly turning back from the doors to her direction. “Don’t worry, he didn’t have an affair behind your back at all. We broke up months ago before you announced your relationship with him publicly.”

“…Why?”

“...” You hesitated for a moment, unsure whether or not it’s best that you should tell her. What would happen if you were to tell her about Ayato leaving you because of the arranged marriage? Does she even know it’s an arranged marriage?

You didn’t have to ask to find that out.

“Is it because… of our marriage?” Chisato asks, her voice shaking.

Your silence was all she needed to know.

She lets out a shaky breath, and you close your eyes shut in fear that she’ll react badly.

Much to your surprise, you only felt warmth wrapped around you.

“I’m sorry.” She sobbed, and you realized she’s hugging you. “I’m so sorry– I.. This is all my fault. I didn’t know – I-I swear, I didn’t!”

You didn’t know what to do as the bride continued to cry, hesitating to hug her back.

Why is she sorry..? If anything, you feel like you should be the one to apologize for ruining her wedding.

You could feel her shaking. “If I had known earlier, I would’ve tried to break the engagement off! No wonder why Ayato always looked so miserable.” She spoke.

“It’s.. It’s alright, Ms. Hiiragi. It’s all in the past, it’s not your fault.” You reassured the woman, slowly patting her back awkwardly. You honestly hope no one who’d walk past the terrace would eavesdrop on your conversation.

She shakes her head. “No, it’s not alright. You could’ve been the one marrying Ayato instead and he could’ve been happier with you than with me, you deserve better tha–”

“It’s okay, Ms. Hiiragi,” You said softly. “If.. If anything, I don’t love him anymore.”

The bride was speechless, sniffing quietly. You took this as your chance to continue talking more. “Yes.. I was deeply heartbroken, but I’m slowly moving on now. I don’t think I want to ruin that, let alone ruin someone’s wedding, so it’s okay. I’ll be alright.”

The woman continues to wipe her tears away. “Still.. Even when you’re okay, Ayato isn’t.” She whispers. “If I could, I could cancel the wedding right away – but my father is… not someone who can be easily convinced.”

You frowned. “Your father..?”

“He’s the reason why this engagement happened in the first place.” Chisato explains. “Between me and you, I only accepted it for the sake of my family’s business, and I eventually fell in love with Ayato.”

Seeing the way her eyes soften, you couldn’t help but be reminded of your old self. “Do you love him a lot?”

She nodded. “With all of my heart. I haven’t told anyone about this but.. He reminds me of my old lover. His name was Kamaji.”

Your eyes widen. Is she talking about Kujou Kamaji? Isn’t he Sara’s broth–

Oh.

Chisato notices the way your face morphed into shock, thinking that you knew who she was talking about. “You may have heard of him from a friend of yours – Kujou Sara, right?” She asks.

You nodded, sympathy flashes in your eyes. “...My condolences.”

The death of the supposed heir of the Kujou Company was not unheard of in Inazuma thanks to the news. He was unfortunately involved with a car accident when he was on his way somewhere, causing him to pass away from blood loss. Due to this, the Kujou Company had crumbled for a month, with Kamaji and Sara’s father falling into depression that his son had passed away and had no choice but to give his company to his adopted daughter, Sara. Eventually, he came to accept that Sara is a great CEO with how she managed to quickly bring the business back to its prosperity in such a short time.

She lets go of the hug between the two of you, wiping off the last of her tears from her face. “I thought I’d never fall in love again after his death, but then Ayato came and… I couldn’t help but be reminded of him.”

She then quickly clarifies, “O-Of course, I love Ayato as himself and not because I see Kamaji in him. I just… feel happy that I get to meet someone as kind as Ayato and be happy, just like what Kamaji wanted.” She inhales sharply. “But I feel so hopeless with this situation and I don’t know what to do.”

You think of a response silently. As much as you’re aware of the fact that you’re most likely the only person Chisato could talk to about her and Ayato’s now complicated relationship, you knew you can’t do anything.

“I can’t be of help to you,” You spoke honestly. “I can answer your questions, but I can’t speak for Ayato entirely. Your best shot is to just have a heart-to-heart conversation with him. He has to move on eventually.”

She listened to your words intently. “You’re right..” She glances at where the venue is. “If I really can’t stop the wedding myself, then I might as well make sure to be there for Ayato when he needs it.”

She then looks back at you with a grateful look on her face. “Thank you for this. I.. I feel better now.”

“What are you going to do now?” You ask.

“I’m not sure,” She said hesitantly, “I suppose I have no choice but to continue the wedding, seeing how there’s no hope for anyone to stop it, but I’m really sorry that this happened to you and Ayato.”

“It’s alright.” You reassured her once more, smiling in sadness. “I wish you and Ayato happiness in your marriage.”

Chisato then hugs you once more, causing you to feel taken back by surprise.

“I wish you happiness too, ( Name ).” She wishes. “I’ll try my best to be there for Ayato.”

You aren’t sure what made you feel overwhelmed, was it because of how understanding Chisato is despite having the right to be angry? The fact that you no longer have any worries about this wedding anymore? Or was it the fact that you didn’t know you needed a hug so much until now?

Whatever it was, it made you feel something that you’ve always wanted to do.

It’s time for me to be happy again.

–

What’s taking them so long? Diluc wonders as he constantly glances around the venue room to look for the familiar sight of you amongst the crowds, only to see nothing at all.

He has to admit, you’re one interesting company to be with. The both of you instantly clicked and much to his surprise, he didn’t even know an hour had passed during your conversation until he checked his watch after you left to get your second meal. Your conversation honestly felt like he was talking to an old friend after not meeting with them for so long – he wouldn’t be surprised if you two knew each other back when you’re kids.

He hears someone clearing his throat nearby, causing the bartender to turn around and look at who he assumes to be another guest who’d like a drink–

“Lovely evening, Mr. Ragnvindr.” Ayato spoke, bringing his glass on top of the counter. “How’s the bar so far? Is everyone enjoying the drinks, I hope?”

Diluc hums in response. “Fortunately, yes.” Seeing how the glass Ayato is holding is empty, the bartender asks him. “What would you like for tonight, Mr. Kamisato?”

“Your best wine, please.” He answers, and Diluc could instantly tell the way the atmosphere around them changes. “I’d also like for you to answer my question.”

The bartender furrows his eyebrows. “...Alright.”

It took Ayato a few seconds to ask his question, looking straight at Diluc’s eyes with a blank look on his face. “How do you feel towards Mx. ( Last Name )?”

The bartender didn’t expect him to ask such a thing. What the hell does he mean by that?

“..Pardon?” Diluc asks.

Ayato’s face remained the same. “What’s your feelings with Mx. ( Last Name )?”

The red-haired man slowly brings out the best bottle of wine from the mini-fridge beneath the counter before he proceeds to pour it in Ayato’s glass, clearing his throat. “I’ll admit, I enjoyed talking with Mx. ( Last Name ). However, there’s nothing serious going on between us.” He answered vaguely.

The groom continues to silently stare down at his glass that’s now filled with his drink, taking in on the bartender’s answer to his question.

“...I see.” Ayato said, his smile appearing. “I hope that’ll continue, Mr. Ragnvindr.”

Diluc raises an eyebrow, letting the other man proceed to talk more. “I know you, Mr. Ragnvindr. Your background is quite interesting, don’t you think?” He adds.

“With all due respect, you don’t know me completely, Mr. Kamisato.”

“Not completely at least,” Ayato agrees. “But I know you enough to know that you should leave Mx. ( Last Name ) alone.”

“Oh? And what part of my background is enough for me to leave them alone?”

“You know what I’m talking about, Mr. Ragnvindr.” Ayato glances around the venue cautiously before looking at Diluc once more. “Haven’t you noticed that the wind is going strong(1) nowadays?”

Diluc’s face instantly drops from his words, knowing what the groom meant as he glances around the venue as well. Truth to what he said, there were a few people glancing towards his way with caution and questionable stares.

Ayato hops off from his stool, grabbing his glass. “I’m sure you’re aware of my relationship with Mx. ( Last Name ) back then, but even though we’re no longer acquainted with one another, I still worry for their sake.” He then took a sip. “Feel free to continue being with Mx. ( Last Name ), but I do hope your relationship with them will remain as friends and nothing more, unless you intend to hurt them.”

The other man stayed silent, watching as the groom took his leave.

…Maybe he’s right, Diluc thought to himself, putting back the wine bottle in the mini-fridge. But it’s up for Mx. ( Last Name ) to decide if they want to continue chatting with me. We’re just friends after all.

He wonders why he feels so hurt at that thought.

DAN’S NOTES !

“Haven’t you noticed that the wind is going strong(1) nowadays?” — idk if theres smthn like this in google since i made this up, but this quote basically means there are rumors around, meaning that there’s been a rumor about you and diluc.

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