modern gwyndolaire date

[11:39 PM] Sunlit Solaire's origami note is on delicately marble-patterned paper in pastel yellow and cream, folded into a five-point star; Solaire has written on the side facing out "for Miss Gwyndolin" in his nicest handwriting and bright gold ink, and under that "turn me over!"

The opposite side has Solaire's phone number written in dark red ink on one arm of the star, and the body has, in small neat letters, "I would enjoy taking you on a date, if you would consider going on one with me. If you would like to, please call me!"

The note is signed with a little golden sun.
[11:49 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is happily reading through the booklet and marveling at all the pretty things that Solaire put in it, on top of genuinely pondering the theology of the solar 'worship', when he comes across the folded star halfway through, with his name on it. He picks it up curiously, and does as it instructs, turning it over, his eyes instantly drawn to the red numbers... and then at the rest of the message.

His face instantly goes red, and he quietly freaks out for a solid five minutes, before he manages to get Líadan's attention, and freak out at her about it. He's been asked out! On a date! A real date!

Líadan has to work to calm him down, and the rest of the afternoon and evening are spent slowly discussing the logistics of this. They both know Gwyndolin isn't actually a woman, though Solaire doesn't. Líadan has misgivings about the whole thing and recommends turning him down. But Gwyndolin... He can't resist Solaire's charming sweetness and enthusiasm, and the way he's so good-natured, Gwyndolin wants to give him a chance... But still, he's indecisive, nervous, he's really never been liked before! Not like this! Líadan suggests he sleep on it... so he does.

He sleeps restlessly, though, the thought ever on his mind, and there it is again the moment he wakes up. He deliberates with Líadan a little more, and they come up with a basic gameplan. He'll agree to a date, he and Solaire will make plans. Líadan will come along and stick nearby- just in case. And once the date is established... Gwyndolin will tell Solaire the truth. And they'll see how it goes from there. After formulating that plan, it then takes a while longer for Gwyndolin to gather the nerve to actually contact Solaire. But eventually... He enters the number into his cellphone, waits a minute or two, and then... hits 'call', and holds the phone to his ear, his breathing feeling short, and his heart beating fast, cheeks slightly pink.
[11:53 PM] Sunlit Solaire answers his cell phone halfway through the first ring, with a polite and very hopeful, "Hello?" He doesn't recognise the number, which he hope means it's Gwyndolin, which he hope means he's... maybe... lucky enough to be getting a date?
[11:54 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin takes a moment, his breath catching, and he curses at himself in his head when he fails not to stammer when he remembers how to speak, "H-Hello? This is Mr. Archambault, right?" He says, his voice soft, "It's Gwyndolin."
[12:06 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, eagerness bursting through before his voice softens to bashfulness, "Miss Gwyndolin! You-- you found my message?" He sounds like he would be twirling the phone cord around his finger if he wasn't on a mobile phone. "... I mean, of course you did, you're calling me."
[12:07 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles softly, nervously, "Yes, I did. I'm sorry I didn't call you yesterday when I found it." He says, voice quiet. "It made me really excited, but I've also been so nervous."
[12:09 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, "No, no, it's fine! I-- I wouldn't want you to rush your choice! T-though... though I am hoping you'll be saying yes...?"
[12:10 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin says, immediately, a little overeager, "[b]Yes[/b]!" And then he laughs sheepishly, his cheeks red even though Solaire can't see, and he clears his throat. "Y... Yes. I'd love to. I'm so glad you asked, and it was so cute how you did it..."
[12:20 AM] Sunlit Solaire breathes out relief, and says, "I-- I'm very happy, Miss Gwyndolin, that you-- you're happy that I asked, and that you want to, and-- and that you thought it was cute! I was afraid it might be too forward, when we've only known each other for a very short while, but... but you charmed me instantly, I have to admit." He laughs, shyly, and asks, "When... when would you like to go on our date? And what kind of places might you like to go, Miss Gwyndolin? There's a café up the road from me... and restaurants... and parks, and the beach, of course..."
[12:25 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin can't help but giggle as Solaire rambles on in excited relief, it's so nice to hear him so delighted, even over the phone. "You charmed me, too, if we're admitting things. You've been terribly sweet." He says softly. "I'd be happy to go whenever you find the most reasonable time. My schedule is open. And I... think I'd prefer a restaurant or a café. And if the price worries you, I'd be happy to split or cover the bill, so don't worry."
[12:29 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, "No, no, I asked you out, I can pay the bill! It's the least I can do, when you're giving me the pleasure of your company, Miss Gwyndolin...!" He knows she can likely outright buy whatever establishment they end up at, but in the principal of the thing... "I live just over in Prestatyn, and there's all kinds of little cafés along High Street... I've heard Deja Vu has really good croissants and hot cocoa, and there's a tea room and a cupcakery a little further down...?"
[12:31 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin can't help but laugh softly, "Such a gentleman! Alright, I'll let you pay, if it means so much to you." His voice sounds so warm as he speaks to Solaire, so happy, his nervousness starting to ebb away if only slightly. "All those options sound delightful, honestly. I'm not sure if I have a preference- if you don't either, I think I'd default to the tea room...?"
[12:40 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, happily, "The tea room sounds wonderful to me as well, Miss Gwyndolin! Do you want to meet, um... tomorrow at noon, maybe? Or even later today, I think they're open until about suppertime...?"
[12:42 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin hums softly, and says, "I think tomorrow sounds wonderful. I'd need some more time to get ready, after all." He pauses, and then giggles, "I can't wait, Mr. Archam- oh. Actually. Since... We're going on a date, I should probably just call you Solaire, then, shouldn't I?"
[12:44 AM] Sunlit Solaire makes a really, really, really happy noise, and objects with a hopelessly dreamy tone to his voice, "Only if you want to, Miss Gwyndolin..."

Oh... he didn't know how nice his name would sound in Gwyndolin's voice... he could die happy right now, if he wasn't afraid of standing up his cute date!
[12:45 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin can't stop another giggle from bubbling up. "I do want to, Solaire." He says, sweetly. "And you may simply call me Gwyndolin..."
[12:47 AM] Sunlit Solaire sighs, dreamily, "Gwyndolin... how sweet a name! I shall call you just Gwyndolin, then, since you have so kindly given me permission, and I shall see you tomorrow at noon-- are you calling from your mobile? I can text you the address, so you do not get lost..."
[12:49 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin feels his face getting warmer and warmer as Solaire gushes about his name. "Y-Yes, this is my mobile. And please do. Líadan will be driving me, but it would be helpful." He pauses, and then says, very softly, "Thank you so much for this, Solaire."
[12:52 AM] Sunlit Solaire hesitates, then says, softly, "I should be thanking you, for you have brightened my day just as much as the sun itself, dear Gwyndolin." He swallows a little, on the other end of the line, and adds, "Tomorrow, noon... I'll... I'll see how much more of the Silmarillion I can get through before then!"
[12:54 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin laughs softly. "Try not to rush so much that you miss out on the details!" He says, and then adds, in a sweet tone. "I'm excited. I can't wait for tomorrow. I'll see you then, S-Solaire..." Gosh! His heart is pounding!
[12:57 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, "I'm excited too... but I'll read carefully for you, Gwyndolin." He laughs, breathlessly, and says, "Until tomorrow..."
[01:11 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin nods, even though Solaire can't see. "Right... Have a nice day, Solaire."

And with that, he reluctantly hangs up, as much as he'd have liked to just stay on the phone with Solaire for hours... He has planning he needs to do. Once Solaire sends him the address (and Gwyndolin saves Solaire into his phone as a contact) he forwards it to Líadan, and then they spend the rest of the day making plans, and preparing for the next day. Gwyndolin turns in early, knowing he'll be so restless he'll need the extra time to sleep. The next day, they take note of the weather- which is a bit chilly- and plan out Gwyndolin's outfit, and he gussies himself up as best he can. Then, as noon approaches, they load up in a van, and head out to the tea room...

If Solaire's already there, likely waiting anxiously knowing him, he'll get to see the van pull up, and Líadan step out from the driver's seat, and go around to... the trunk, from which she pulls out a complete (and very expensive looking) wheelchair, bedecked with extra cushions to make it more comfortable. Closing the trunk, she wheels the chair over to the passenger side, whose door she opens... and there's Gwyndolin! Who very, very carefully (and slightly shakily) steps out, with help from Líadan's steady hands, as she helps him out of the van, and into the wheelchair, closing the door for him. She then pushes his chair for him, pushing him into the teashop, the both of them keeping an eye out for Solaire.
[01:20 AM] Sunlit Solaire was examining the pastry case with a mix of nervousness and excitement, glancing out at every car that passes on High Street, but the van doesn't look like what he's expecting so he's still in the back, looking at the selection of sweets, when Gwyndolin and Líadan start entering the tea room-- but then he catches a glimpse of silver hair across the small shop, and he turns, smiling brightly-- oh!

"Gwyndolin!" he says, delighted and alarmed as he hustles over to his wheelchaired date. "Are-- are you all right?"
[01:30 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin looks... really embarrassed, immediately, at Solaire's alarm, and he laughs softly and waves a hand dismissively. "I'm fine, just... having a tired day, is all. I'll tell you more once we're not in the threshold. Do we have a table...?"

He smiles shyly at Solaire, and asks, "Also, if you could ignore the chair for a moment, please... How do I look?" If Solaire can manage to get his attention to stray from the fact Gwyndolin's in a wheelchair, he see how nicely his date is dressed. Another pretty gold harness over a ruffled gray shirt with long sleeves, and over that, a very loose, chrocheted sweater he most likely made himself- and then a third layer over that, a creamy cashmere capelet with a fur trim, and under all that, a long, creamy silk skirt, lace leggings, and high healed boots that look like snakeskin with lace-ruffled pink socks. Not to mention, a golden moon clip in his hair, and pretty jewelry of gold and shimmering stones and gems with moon and star motifs, and a pair of pink leather fingerless gloves. He's very prepared to deal with the chilly weather, but also especially prepared to look absolutely stunning on his date, regardless of the wheelchair. (which actually looks really nice, too- the cushions are embroidered with flowers and moons and stars... perhaps embroidered by Gwyndolin himself?)
[01:37 AM] Sunlit Solaire makes a soft, worried sound, but-- but he looks at Gwyndolin, all the same, and his breath is quite taken away, and he just... kind of... absorbs for a second, because... ahhh... "Goodness, you're making me feel underdressed, Gwyndolin," he says, a little dazed, though he dressed very nicely by his own standards, in a blazer over his sun-emblazoned shirt (he has a THEME to maintain!) and ironed pants above those same yellow sneakers from a couple days before, and only a pair of gloves shoved in his pocket for the chill. "You look stunning, though..."

Pardon him while he stares some more.
[01:42 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles softly, and says, "I had a feeling I'd be quite a bit overdressed, but... I really wanted to look extra nice for our date, and most of my clothes are already quite nice, so..." Naturally, he ended up Extra Nice. As Solaire keeps admiring him, though, his cheeks get steadily pinker and pinker, and he averts his eyes shyly.

Líadan then clears her throat, narrowing her eyes at Solaire. "If you could point us to where the two of you will be sitting? I'd like to get Gwyndolin parked properly." She says pointedly.
[01:47 AM] Sunlit Solaire starts, and says, "Ah, yes, of course, Líadan!" and ushers them towards the front, besides the door, where there's already napkins and two menus-- but far too many chairs at the table for Gwyndolin's wheelchair to snuggle up against it, and Solaire quickly whisks them to one side and nudges the table, so that there's more room for his date (and less room for him, but he'll survive, even if a potted palm tree is tickling his ear a little).
[01:54 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles as Solaire gets the chairs out of the way and moves the table, at which Líadan mutters something about how this is a bad place for a table, with the door swinging right there, but she pushes Gwyndolin's chair snuggly in place, and Gwyndolin looks plenty happy.

"Now, I'll be outside in the van, if I'm needed-" Líadan starts, before being interrupted by Gwyndolin.

"But Líadan, surely you should at least get a table for yourself, too-" But then Líadan interrupts back.

"No, Gwyndolin, I'd be too tempted to spy on you, and I'd like to let you have at least a modicum of privacy on your date." She smiles warmly at Gwyndolin, but then Líadan walks around to Solaire's side of the table, putting her hand down on the table as she leans closer to him, glowering as she says in a threatening tone, "You'd best treat Gwyndolin as wonderfully as Gwyndolin deserves, you got that? I'd like you to know that my duties as Gwyndolin's attendant extend to being a personal bodyguard, and I'm well capable-"

Gwyndolin looks EXTREMELY embarrassed as he hisses, "Líadan! That's enough!" And with a huff, Líadan straightens up, gives Solaire the stinkeye one last time, before making her way out to the van. Gwyndolin sighs tiredly, and looks apologetically at Solaire. "I am terribly sorry about that, Líadan is... very protective."
[01:59 AM] Sunlit Solaire looks vaguely surprised, but laughs gently, and says, "I suppose I should be glad she didn't pull a gauntlet out of her bag to challenge me with. What have I done to make her think I might hurt you, though?" He smiles adoringly at Gwyndolin, and says, softly, "After all, you've been nothing but kind and lovely to me.... how could I repay that with pain? I'd much rather repay it with cake-- which they fortunately have quite a lot of here."
[02:03 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin still looks very embarrassed, his cheeks red, and his eyes averted. "It's nothing you've done- she's just not sure about you yet. She's nervous." He says quietly. "Not to mention, there's something I should tell you, before this date continues."

He goes a bit pale, lifting a hand, his fingers against his lips. "It... may change your opinion of me, though." He says, eyes still turned away from Solaire. "I won't blame you if you decide you don't want the date to continue. It's a bit shocking, really, I-"

He hesitates, and swallows dryly, and has to take a few breaths, during which Solaire can be encouraging if he wants to, giving Gwyndolin the courage to lean forward slightly, head tipped down in shame, as he says in a very quiet voice. "I am not actually a woman. Despite the way my body and clothes look, I am a man." His voice goes slightly strained, "I'm sorry I've misled you. I normally don't tell anyone. But if you're trying to- to date me, I thought... I thought you deserved to know...!"
[03:14 PM] Sunlit Solaire isn't sure what's going on, but he's expecting something fairly dire-- Gwyndolin is going to die in two months, or believes in homeopathy, or thinks Solaire's ponytail is stupid-- but what he actually end up saying just slightly baffles Solaire for a moment, the man blinking at Gwyndolin.

After a second of processing, he says, somewhat befuddled but clearly not upset, "... Oh? Well, that's fine! Are-- ah, I don't want to be rude by asking prying questions-- would you like me to use men's pronouns for you?"
[03:17 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin looks... looks even more baffled than Solaire, lifting his head to look at him with wide, surprised eyes. He... genuinely didn't expect such an amiable response! "I-... Well, yes, I would rather like that, but-" He laughs a little, incredulously, "It... It does not bother you at all? You seem so... surprised, yes, but... I expected more pushback, I guess."
[03:20 PM] Sunlit Solaire has traveled Europe, and spent time around the kinds of people who go to renfaires, and almost certainly picked up door-to-door things by spending time with his relatives in America-- surely this is not the most shocking thing he's ever seen, and he shrugs, smiling confusedly. "Why should it? You've still been sweet and kind to me, and you're still terribly charming and lovely to look at." He... he might be assuming Gwyndolin is an untransitioned trans dude, but that's not the wrongest assumption to make, and he doesn't want to make Gwyndolin uncomfortable by prying about it!
[03:23 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is honestly in such a weird, unique place that he could halfway be considered such, if not for the genitals he already has. But the rest of his body, and his place in society... he's close. Anyways, he blushes slightly, and he says, quietly, a soft smile growing on his face as he tucks some hair behind his ear. "I suppose, then, this means you have an interest in men as well...?"
[03:28 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, "Ah-- yes, of course! I'm-- ah-- haha-- usually rather more interested in them than women..." He's blushing a little, and offers his hand across the table, to hold Gwyndolin's hand, if Gwyndolin will be kind enough to let him hold it. "Maybe I ought to have known, when you struck me so instantly as the most delightful person I'd met in ages..."
[03:31 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin will let him hold it! His cheeks all rosy as he gently lays his delicate hand in Solaire's... And his cheeks just getting rosier and rosier. "You really are terribly sweet," He murmurs, looking positively enchanted, eyes shining slightly. He's not felt so terribly validated as himself since he'd last been encouraged by his brother... "I'm so glad I got the courage to join you on a date."
[03:34 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles, shyly, and asks, "Are you brave enough to have tea and cake with me as well, dear Gwyndolin?" He pauses, then asks, awkward but earnest, "Is-- is that the name you'd like me to use still? If there's a different one, my dear, don't hesitate to let me know..."
[03:41 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin laughs softly. "Yes, I think I am!" He says, smiling brightly. "Gwyndolin is just fine- I don't plan on changing that. I'm rather attached to the name, despite everything."

He pauses, and then frowns a little. "But, on that note, while it would please me for you to refer to me as a man when we're alone... perhaps not to others in public. I am not currently in a... good position to be publicly open. I wouldn't wish to cause trouble for my father, especially as he doesn't know..." And then, quickly, he adds, "Around Líadan is just fine, though!"
[03:44 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles, and suggests, "Then perhaps I should call you the sweetest person I've ever met, and an absolutely wonderful listener, and, perhaps, the loveliest person in the world, and avoid the issue altogether for now? And you can let me know if the situation changes for you, my dear Gwyndolin." He squeezes his cute date's hand, and asks, "What kind of pastries and tea would you like? I can go order for you, if you wish. And don't think this means I'll let you pay the bill when I'm the one who asked you out!" Hahaha! C:
[03:49 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is gonna die! His face is going redder and redder by the milisecond, and he can't help but giggle from behind a hand, turning his eyes away shyly. "You're too sweet!" He says, sounding a little overwhelmed. "I... That would be fine. I-If they have any sort of lavender tea... And, perhaps, strawberry shortcake?"
[03:53 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles at Gwyndolin, and says, "I'll see what I can do, dearest Gwyndolin," and squeezes his hand again before getting up and walking around the table to go order shortcake and tea for the both of them.

This is a great time to text Líadan and tell her it's going well!
[03:57 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is about ready to swoon..! But with Solaire away from the table, Gwyndolin does take that opportunity to pull his phone out, and text Líadan, and tell her how well things are going... That Solaire is still aggressively sweet and understanding about the whole gender thing and, just as importantly, male-leaning bisexual. And then he just segues into gushing about how delightful and charming and sweet Solaire is. Poor Líadan is out in the van rolling her eyes.
[04:01 PM] Sunlit Solaire returns after a couple minutes, and inserts himself into a chair around the corner of the table from Gwyndolin, instead of across, and says, "They'll bring the tea out in a couple minutes, and the shortcake with it-- and I took the liberty of asking for more strawberries and whipped cream on the side, and honey and cream, since you took it like that the other day..." He's smiling at Gwyndolin, hopefully. Did he do all right?
[04:02 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin looks up from his phone, setting it down on the table, and- and smiling so brightly at Solaire. You did! You did great! "That sounds wonderful!" He says and blushes, brushing his hair behind his ear again. "I'm surprised you remembered that..."
[04:03 PM] Sunlit Solaire opens his mouth, and then hesitates, then asks, shyly, "Is it too silly if I say that it's because I can't keep my eyes off of you?"
[04:04 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin squeaks quietly, and then bubbles up with flustered giggles, and hides his face, and aaaa! Aaaaaa!!! "S-Solaire!" He says, voice a bit high, "You're going to make me pop with so much flattery!"
[04:06 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, and says, "The butterflies in your stomach just want to be free, Gwyndolin! Can you begrudge them their desire? Poor things, trapped in there, fluttering their little hearts out... at least, if your stomach is anything like mine!"
[04:06 PM] Sunlit Solaire gets butterflies around you, Gwyndolin. <3
[04:07 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin doesn't respond with words, just a flustered little overwhelmed noise, wiggling his feet under the table.
[04:09 PM] Sunlit Solaire catches his hand, then, and tugs it to be between them, so he can fold his big, strong fingers around it, warmly, and smile adoringly at Gwyndolin. "I really rather like you," he says, soft and sincere.
[04:10 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin had been hiding his face with his hands, but now there's only one hand, and he peeks at Solaire with his face only half covered and very red. "I-I... I really rather like you, too, S-Solaire..."
[04:11 PM] Sunlit Solaire beams, and says, "I couldn't be happier to hear that, my dear, dear Gwyndolin..." and presses a little warm kiss to Gwyndolin's pink-clad knuckles. "I hope that you'll-- you'll continue to find me likable."
[04:14 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin's knuckles are bare thanks to the fingerlessness of the gloves, but I get you. Still, he's blushing like crazy. "Well... I'm only finding you more and more likable every passing minute, so..." He clears his throat, looking away shyly. "The future for that looks rather bright, I think..."
[04:17 PM] Sunlit Solaire makes an incredibly happy noise, and squeezes Gwyndolin's hand gently, and says, "Oh, I'm glad of it, dear Gwyndolin. And-- may I say that the same is true for you as well, for you're a delight to me every moment we're together, despite our short acquaintance..."
[11:52 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is definitely going to perish from all this flirting. Anyone else in the vicinity is probably having their teeth rot out. Anti-sweetheart nona would have a heart attack and die. But Gwyndolin manages to say, a little boldly, "Have I told you yet, that I think you look quite handsome today? Of course, you've looked handsome both other times I've seen you, but you really are extra nice to look at today."
[11:55 AM] Sunlit Solaire can't believe Gwyndolin is going to make this a double flirting murder? He turns very red, and squeezes Gwyndolin's hand again, and says, softly, "T-thank you..." Wow...
[11:56 AM] Sunlit Solaire clears his throat, and muddles about looking for something to say in reply to that that isn't simply "no, you," and thankfully at that moment the tea and cake arrives, saving him from fluster.
[11:58 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is also saved from all this fluster too, to be honest, and he politely thanks the server, before setting about sweetening and creaming his tea how he likes it, though he's definitely eyeing that slice of cake with extra strawberries and whipped cream. "Goodness, I dare say that cake looks almost as sweet as you, Solaire!"
[12:00 PM] Sunlit Solaire OH NO... NOW IT IS HIS TURN TO COVER HIS FACE WITH HIS HANDS... OH NO.......

He mumbles something flattered and flustered into the heels of his hands, his eartips turning red, and shyly nudges the toe of one sneaker against Gwyndolin's boot. How dare Gwyndolin fluster him so quickly and completely? What a monster!
[12:03 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin laughs brightly, soooo pleased with his smooth flirt! It's his first time saying such a thing to someone and it was a critical success! He's so proud! "Honestly, though, Solaire..." He starts, lowering his voice, "How [b]do[/b] you manage to be so sweet? You've been so awfully considerate. Accepting about what I am, and even my health- you've been so accommodating, and haven't even asked about it!"

He's a little starstruck, really, looking at Solaire with admiring eyes. "How do you manage it?"
[12:06 PM] Sunlit Solaire lowers his hands a little, curling his fingers against his cheeks, and says, softly, "I-- I would hate to upset you more than I would like to pry, and you have been so sweet to me, Gwyndolin-- you've let me visit you in your home and came on a date with me and never even giggled at my beliefs. How could I not be sweet in return, when you have been-- been a balm of honey on my soul, warm and soothing?"
[12:11 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin makes a soft noise, and says, "There is nothing laugh-worthy about your beliefs, Solaire. And I must admit, when you first appeared at the gate, I asked Líadan to bring you in, because I was quite lonely, and was eager to have someone- anyone- new to talk to. Even if it was about vacuums or something!" He laughs a little, but mostly sheepishly, "But instead I met someone kind and with such interesting things to say and share."

He smiles warmly at Solaire, and reaches out a hand to lay briefly, comfortingly, against his arm. "I've never been on a date before, but I am sure this one is exceptional already by anyone's standards." He says, and pats Solaire's arm before pulling away to start on his cake. But before taking his first bite he says, softly, "But I am not opposed if you're curious about me. I've already heard so many things about you, after all. It's only fair."
[12:16 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles at Gwyndolin, lowering his hands though his face still burns, and says, "I-- I cannot say I am glad you were lonely, but I am glad you wanted to meet me... surely this has made me the luckiest man in the world, for I AM on a truly exeptional date, [b]with[/b] a truly exceptional date, and I cannot remember a time I had so many butterflies fluttering in my belly..."

He takes a sip of his own tea, and then asks, shyly, "Would you tell me why you... needed a wheelchair, today? Do you always? It strikes me now that each time we met, you were already sitting..."
[12:17 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin greeted solaire on foot at the castle gate a couple days ago actually!
[12:17 PM] Sunlit Solaire OH RIGHT lmao alanas are dum
[12:18 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin alanas arent dumb!!!!! byrds just remember these things too much
[12:18 PM] Sunlit Solaire: ((*do you often, it strikes me that you were often sitting
[12:23 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is now taking his turn to be flattered, as pink as the layer of sweet frosting between the layers of his slice of cake! But Solaire asked him questions, so he's going to answer those instead of getting into another 'you're nice, no YOU'RE nice' fight.

"I have a chronic illness." He says, simply, and does not go into the details. "And some days hit me a little worse than others..." 'Little' is an understatement! "I do require the wheelchair fairly often- the day we first met was one of my more immobile days, as is today. I simply do not have the strength at times."
[12:26 PM] Sunlit Solaire loves that pink blush, loves-- is a little in love with Gwyndolin already! He makes a little concerned noise, though, and asks, softly, "Does it cause you pain, my dearest Gwyndolin? Or just weakness?"
[12:28 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin simpers a bit, and shrinks a little in his seat. "It is mostly weakness and tiredness. But there is pain, at times. Especially if I catch something else- other illnesses tend to hit me rather hard."
[12:28 PM] Sunlit Solaire oh nooooooo
[12:29 PM] Sunlit Solaire reaches out across the table, and asks, concerned, "Are... are you in pain today?"
[12:29 PM] Sunlit Solaire's fingers brush Gwyndolin's cheek as he frowns. He hopes not...
[12:31 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles sweetly at Solaire, all sorts of pink-cheeked all over again. "No need to worry your head, if I were in pain, I honestly would have called and asked to reschedule. I don't like to even leave my room or bed those days, let alone the house." He takes that affectionate hand in his own, laying them both on the table, to rub Solaire's knuckles with a smooth, dainty thumb. "I'm just a bit weak and tired today, is all."
[12:34 PM] Sunlit Solaire breathes a sigh of relief, and admits, "If you were in pain, I might have asked if you wanted to go home... but I am glad you are not, for I would much rather spend time with you than not." He smiles shyly at his cute, sweet, wonderful date. "I hope the cake and tea will revitalize you some... for I could stay here with you forever."
[12:37 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin makes a flustered noise, and then another, because his mouth is full as he'd just taken a bite of cake, and all he can do is wiggle while he chews and swallows before he can finally say, "You are far too much of a flatterer!" As if he's not absolutely relishing in all the flirting and compliments and feeling absurdly happy. "The cake is absolutely wonderful, by the way. I'm so glad you asked me to come here! I'll have to order cakes from here sometime."
[12:41 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, "But it's true! I-- I'm not sure I've ever been happier than when I am with you. If it could last forever, I would not hesitate to choose this over anything else in the world..." A little early for declarations like that, isn't it, Solaire?? He knows it, too, bright red and sipping tea to shut himself up, but that doesn't take back the words he's said.
[12:44 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin has to- has to take a drink of tea, too, his eyes turning away shyly, cheeks red. When he sets his cup back down, he speaks softly, looking down at his cake as he cuts another piece with his fork. "A little early to be saying such things don't you think...?" He says exactly what everyone was thinking, but he also doesn't look displeased, and glances of at Solaire after he eats his bite of cake. "This date is going swimmingly so far, though, and I can't imagine it having an ending that would make me wish to not see you again very soon."
[12:48 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, shyly, and says, "Oh, surely I could find a way to ruin it... I'm quite accomplished at such things." He turns his cup back and forth in his hands, watching the tea swirl gently, and says, "But I am very sure I will want to see you soon again, too. Unless there's other things you're not telling me, like you secretly hate ponytails... but I might even be willing to sacrifice my ponytail for you, honestly."
[12:48 PM] Sunlit Solaire tru luv
[12:49 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin laughs softly. "Do not say such things- you've yet to do even a single thing that hasn't just endeared me more to you, Solaire!" He insists, and smiles warmly at him. "And for the record, I think your ponytail is very dashing."
[12:51 PM] Sunlit Solaire aaaaaaa!
[12:52 PM] Sunlit Solaire asks, a little plaintive, "Must you be so completely perfect? It makes it very hard to think of anything but how very much I like you, my dear Gwyndolin!"
[12:54 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin has to reach over and gently, playfully shove at Solaire. "Oh, stop!! I'll burst if you keep flattering me!" He's gonna die! Look how pink he is! "At least let me eat! The cake is really tasty, and I don't want it to get stale..."
[12:58 PM] Sunlit Solaire giggles, and says, "Eat, eat! And I shall do the same." He hasn't even touched his slice yet! He will set into it, and just smile and blush and smile more at Gwyndolin while he does. Look! He's letting his date eat!
[01:00 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin eats, then! And drinks his tea, and enjoys this all thoroughly, all while occasionally stealing fond glances at Solaire, clearly enjoying himself. The quiet is a comfortable one, Gwyndolin clearly fine with companionable silence, and he keeps smiling.

Soon enough, his plate is devoid of cake, and his cup devoid of tea, and Gwyndolin leans back in his chair with a little sigh. "Goodness! That was very delicious. I don't normally eat something so rich, but I am absolutely not complaining."
[01:03 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, softly, and takes his last bite of cake, fondly regarding Gwyndolin as he chews and swallows. "I am glad you enjoyed it, my dear Gwyndolin. I would be happy to bring you back here again, so we could try their other cakes as well..."
[01:05 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin beams! "Please do! Though, I think for our next date, I'd like to not just do the same thing-" And then he flushes quite a bit, and quickly says, "Th-That is, if you'd like another date... You seem like you do! But perhaps I shouldn't just assume-...? Ah..."

He makes a little flustered noise, and looks down at his lap in embarrassment. "... I would like to go on more dates with you, Solaire."
[01:07 PM] Sunlit Solaire reaches out across the table, and leaves his hand palm-up, in case Gwyndolin would like to hold it, and says, "I-- I would very, very, very much like to go on more dates with you! You-- you can very safely assume it, my dear. You can assume as much as you want that I would love to spend more time with you, for it is absolutely true."
[01:08 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin would like to hold it, and he gently lays his gloved hand in Solaire's, blushing an awful lot. "We also have each other's phone numbers, now." He replies softly. "If you'd ever like to call me, or just text me. I like talking with you, Solaire."
[01:10 PM] Sunlit Solaire will just... hold his hand... and blush a lot... and say, "The same goes for you. Please, anytime you wish to speak with me, or send me a message, or-- or anything..." He is at your disposal, Gwyndolin, for he's entirely smitten and ready to do anything for his cute new maybe-boyfriend.
[01:12 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin wiggles his feet a little under the table, absolutely a bit overwhelmed with all this affection from this guy who is so clearly infatuated with him. "I will, I promise." He says, squeezing Solaire's hand a little. "Thank you, Solaire..."
[01:15 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, "No, no-- thank you! I-- I meant it when I said you make me happy..." He rubs his thumb against the back of Gwyndolin's hand, and smiles adoringly at him. "You... are really, truly making me so happy..."
[01:17 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is so flushed when he says, in a soft and slightly high voice, "I'm glad..." Because he is, he really is, he's not used to someone being THIS eager to be around him, and this interested in him. "... I'm reluctant to let this date end already. But I'm too full for more cake or tea."
[01:20 PM] Sunlit Solaire suggests, shyly, "If Líadan will not skin me for suggesting it, perhaps we can wander up High Street and look at the shops? I can push you, if you are not up to propelling yourself, and if we have the energy to go that far, we could, perhaps, sit by the beach and watch the waves..."
[01:23 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles quietly. "I think Líadan will be quite fine with that, actually!" He says, and sits up a bit straighter. "It sounds wonderful, though! And if you push my chair for me, I might have enough energy to spare! After all, I've got an awful lot of sugar working into my system, now." And more giggles, this time behind his pale fingertips as he lifted his free hand to his mouth.
[01:24 PM] Sunlit Solaire thinks the only flaw in this plan is that he may die on the spot from how cute gwyndolin is

[intermission]


[08:51 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin had a great date with Solaire the other day! Solaire was charming and handsome as usual, as well as so sweet and understanding, both about Gwyndolin's health issues, as well as his... more personal, gender issues. They even managed to share a small kiss before they parted! Gwyndolin's lips still practically tingle at the memory of it...

They'd decided to plan a second date, since the first had gone so well. The idea was to go out to eat again, some other nice place Solaire knew about, but... The day is here, and Gwyndolin's really not feeling up to it... but he does have an alternative idea! There's still time before the date, so, anxiously, and after a couple false starts, Gwyndolin calls Solaire's phone, hoping Solaire won't be too disappointed.
[08:53 PM] Sunlit Solaire happily picks up, and answers, "Hello, my dear Gwyndolin!" with a smile in his voice, because he can't help but smile at the thought of Gwyndolin calling him! Wow! The smile is also on his face and in his heart, which is fluttering happily.
[08:56 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin's heart flutters as well, he can practically HEAR the smile that must be on Solaire's face, but then his heart falters, afraid of disappointing that smile and making it fall. "Hello, Solaire! Ah... Um. I am so very sorry to do this, but... I was wondering if we could change our plans today?" He asks, voice soft. "I am really not feeling well enough to go out... I know it's such short notice, but I cannot really control when I have these lapses, I am so sorry...!"

Oh no, he's really expecting disappointment!
[09:00 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, surprised, "Oh... oh, yes, of course, my dear! It's not a problem. Would you like me to bring the food to you instead of going out to the café? I think they do carryouts..." His voice goes distracted for a moment, then comes back to Gwyndolin and asks, "I mean, if you're still well enough to see me...? Or would you rather rest? It's fine either way, Gwyndolin!"

He sounds worried more than anything, though he's clearly hoping Gwyndolin is well enough to see him, because... he wants to see his cute boyfriend...
[09:02 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin's heart practically skips a beat... Solaire sounds sad, yes, but hardly disappointed, and more... worried? "Oh- Oh, please, I really would love for you to come over!" He says quickly, and maybe a little breathlessly. "If... If you could bring food, that would be wonderful. I... hope you won't mind a mellow date of staying in? I really do want to see you."

He wants to see Solaire so badly!! And he's really happy that Solaire seems so... fine with it! There's still a bit of apprehension, that maybe Solaire is just better at hiding his disappointment, but... Golly, he really wants to see his cute boyfriend too!
[09:08 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, softly, and says, "As long as it was with you, I wouldn't mind a date inside a burning building, dear Gwyndolin, except that I would worry for your health. And... being alone with you in your home sounds very nice, too, if Líadan can resist glaring at me the whole time..." Ahhh, being alone with dear Gwyndolin again, holding his hand, kissing his quite-possibly-gloved knuckles... Solaire sighs dreamily, and tells Gwyndolin, "I only ask that you let me know when I should leave, since I'm not sure I could tear myself away from you otherwise."
[09:12 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin can't help but giggle, which is just as cute over the phone, if a bit more low quality. "Oh, you don't have to worry about that! Líadan has quite gotten over her wariness about you- she was just worried you would be hurtful to me about my, ah... secret." Another giggle before he continues, "She was very pleased when I told her how sweet and understanding you were. I think she'll be happy to see you."

With that said, Gwyndolin is feeling an awful lot better about this- if his phone had a cord he'd be twirling it in his fingers right now, but alas! The limitations of modern technology...? "Come over whenever you like. I'm ready to receive you any time. I have a few date-in ideas..."
[09:13 PM] Sunlit Solaire ready to "receive" him anytime???? wow gwyndolin what happened to ur purity ring!
[09:13 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin GOLLY
[09:15 PM] Sunlit Solaire giggles back, utterly charmed, and says, "Perhaps we can have a very, very long date, and do all of them, if your stamina holds and you do not tire of me..." He, too, would be twirling his finger in the phone cord, but at least he has a ponytail to fiddle with, smiling happily. "I'll bring you food, then, my dear, and see you very soon?"
[09:17 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is the one with his smile in his voice now, bright and eager and so very, very delighted- Solaire has such a cute and warm and delightful giggle! "Líadan will have to be the one to pry you away from me, to be sure, sweet Solaire!" He says, a little bit of laughter in his voice. "I can't wait for you to be here- see you soon!"

And then he gives a daring little smooch at the phone, before hanging up, and then just has to... wriggle delightedly a bit in his seat! Golly!!! He likes Solaire so much!!!!!
[09:23 PM] Sunlit Solaire dIES AT THE SMOOCH AAAA give him. a while. to die some more. How did dear Gwyndolin capture his heart so swift and surely, leash it to him so easily, and yet be so kind to it despite Solaire's unworthiness? Surely Solaire does not deserve having so kind and lovely a master over his heart, and yet here they are...!

He gets dressed after he's done dying, and makes sure the basket on his bicycle is emptied to make room for the carry-out, and proceeds to go fetch cakes and sandwiches and pasties for lunch with Solaire, with a stop at the store to buy a bottle of rose wine-- he's not sure if Gwyndolin drinks but he does hope the thought's appreciated either way-- and a single white rose with blushing petals that match the wine itself, to give with it, before proceeding to Gwyndolin's home.
[09:31 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin probably thinks the same of Solaire- that what did such a damaged individual do to deserve such a bright ray of sunshine in his life, so sweet and understanding and giving?

Regardless, when Solaire arrives, he'll find the gate open, and a man standing by it who seems to be a somewhat sharp, if eclectic dresser quite fond of yellow/gold and black, aggressively wavy marigold hair pulled back into a short ponytail. He's chewing gum with earbuds in his ears and his hands in his pockets, but he pops a bubble and removes a bud from an ear when he catches notice Solaire's approach, ready to meet him. GOSH WHO COULD THIS HANDSOME STRANGER BE? Solaire may have noticed this man hanging around the property at least once before, if he's been observant on any of his previous visits.
[09:34 PM] Sunlit Solaire has been mostly captivated by Gwyndolin, to be honest, so unless the guy was hanging out the first time Solaire came...

He brings his bike to a stop near the stranger, and wiggles his fingers jauntily in greeting, a golden-bright smile on his face. "Hello! Are you one of Gwyndolin's companions?" he asks.
[09:37 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin The guy gives Solaire a judgemental once-over, and makes a bit of a face, before nodding in the direction of the castle, indicating Solaire should follow, before striding in that direction. "Something like that," He says, a bit of a grumble to his voice. Is he actually displeased or is he just Like This? "I help guard the estate, but I'm not a personal attendant to Gwyndolin like Líadan is."
[09:40 PM] Sunlit Solaire is slightly cooled by that look, but his heart is too lifted by the thought of Gwyndolin to get too weighed down by the less than friendly reception. "Well, it's a pleasure to meet someone who's keeping dear Gwyndolin safe," he says, warmth filling his voice, and hops off his bike to walk it up to the front of the house. "My name is Solaire Archambault. You are...?"
[09:44 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin "Ornstein." is the only name Solaire gets in response. But a few moments after, he speaks up on his own, "You're all Gwyndolin has been able to talk about since you met, you know. She's really taken with you. Not sure her father would care for you, though, but he doesn't show up often."

Looks like Gwyndolin's 'secret' may not be out with all the staff- that, or he thinks Solaire's the one not in the know.
[09:49 PM] Sunlit Solaire is a little surprised-- surely the man doesn't think Gwyndolin would be dating someone who didn't know he was a man? Or...? Well, he'll match the fellow for now, and let Gwyndolin speak to him later, he supposes. "I-- I'm here for Gwyndolin, not h-her father, so his opinion matters much less to me than hers, I'm afraid. It would be nice if he liked me, of course, but if he does not, I'm sure I'll live..." He laughs, softly, and admits, "I'm rather more concerned about Miss Líadan deciding she hates me, and Gwyndolin assures me she's coming around." He hesitates, then says, a little shyly, "I hope you'll like me too, Mister Ornstein, though we've only just met."
[09:55 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin The man looks oddly at Solaire, most likely concerned that a man would care so little for the opinion of the father of his date. Hrrrmm. "... Don't worry about Líadan." He says, apparently echoing Gwyndolin's sentiment. "She hasn't had a bad word to say about you since she brought Gwyndolin home the other day. As for me..."

He pauses, and tilts his head, scratching a little at his jaw as he keeps walking. "Just do good by Gwyndolin. We may not be terribly close, but... I do care about her. Enough that it's really in your best interest not to utterly break her heart. You may find a lot more ire than you'd expect."
[09:58 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, earnestly, "If I broke her heart, I assure you, sir, that mine would be absolutely shattered with it, and there would be little punishment you could give that would measure up to the pain I'd already be feeling. But I am glad that she is so surrounded by people who care for her." He smiles a little, and spares a hand to fidget with his ponytail.
[10:02 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin Ornstein nods, seemingly pleased by that response, or at least finding it adequate. "Keep doing what you're doing, then." He says lowly as they finally approach the front doors. "Because if I'm honest, I haven't seen Gwyndolin smile like she has been in several years."

Talk about praise! Maybe the ornery attitude is just how he is and not as much of a reflection of actual judgement. Anyways, Ornstein indicates that Solaire can leave his bike outside the door, which he holds open politely for the guest. Líadan appears at the open doorway a moment later, a crooked smile on her face in greeting. "Mr. Archambault, good to see you. I'll take you from here, Gwyndolin's in an upstairs parlor."
[10:05 PM] Sunlit Solaire pinks at the honesty, and goodness, he can't seem to stop smiling either, not even when he leans his bike on its kickstand and claims the hefty bag of carryout, or when he says good-bye to Ornstein and hello to Líadan, or when he follows her to Gwyndolin... that smile is here to stay, along with the butterflies in his stomach and the floating feeling in his heart.
[10:12 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin Ornstein stays behind, closing the door behind them, while Líadan appears to be in a rather jolly mood as she leads Solaire through the many long halls and rooms of the castle, and up some very beautiful sets of stairs, until they finally arrive at a parlor with big windows with the lavish curtains drawn to allow a hearty amount of sunlight in to light the room, full of exquisite furniture with fancy lace doilies and pretty decorations that probably cost more than Solaire makes in a year.

And among them all, sitting on a couch, is Gwyndolin! He's as elegant and refined and pretty as the room around him, in a lacey sleeveless white blouse and peachy tulle skirt, arms decorated in elegant lace 'arm warmers' up to his elbows with ruffles, a pair of peachy leather boots with accents like snake scales, moon-shaped gold earrings, and a tiara made of silver metallic thread forming beautiful lace set on a gold headband, sitting on his silken silver hair. And he smiles SO BRIGHTLY the second he sees Solaire, his cheeks going pink with delight. "Solaire!" He says, clapping his hands together in delight, "Please, come sit with me!"
[10:17 PM] Sunlit Solaire was already pink, and he gets even pinker, nodding to Líadan without looking at her because his eyes are only for Gwyndolin. "You'd need a herd of horses to keep me from it," he says, laughter bubbling up in him from the sheer delight of seeing Gwyndolin, and he abandons the carryout on the coffee table so that he can claim Gwyndolin's hand, and kiss his knuckles, and sit beside him, smiling like his world has been lit up again just by being in Gwyndolin's presence. "You look lovely, my dear Gwyndolin," he says, fingers still gently wrapped around his boyfriend's hand.
[10:19 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is all delight and giggles, especially as Solaire kisses his hand and compliments him, and he can't help but bring his fingertips to his lips as he grins and laughs. "So do you, sweet Solaire!" He replies, all awash with delight, cheeks quite pink, and his fingers curling gently in Solaire's. "I'm so glad you're here- and you're not... not disappointed at all, that I couldn't go out with you?"
[10:20 PM] Sunlit Solaire: ((ill brb i gotta food))
[10:20 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin: (( okie dokie ))
[10:27 PM] Sunlit Solaire kisses his hand again, because he can't resist, and says, "I was only afraid that I would not see you at all, my dear friend, or that you were really ill and suffering. Having a day in with you is still spending time with you; how can that disappoint me?"

He can't stop smiling at Gwyndolin, or holding his hand, or keep his thumb from rubbing where he kissed, pressing the warmth of his lips into Gwyndolin's knuckles.
[10:37 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles softly, and brings up his other hand to hold Solaire's in both of his, his grip gentle. "You are so sweet." He says firmly, eyes alight. "And I just was not feeling well enough to brave the outdoors... Not even in my chair. But I'm plenty well enough to sit and spend time with you here!" He squeezed Solaire's hand, and... and now it's his turn to bring fingers to his lips, to kiss gently and sweetly at Solaire's fingertips. "I've picked out a couple things we could do here... I hope you won't find them too boring."
[10:41 PM] Sunlit Solaire has completely forgotten Líadan has ever existed; hopefully she's left while the lovebirds were chirping at each other, or else she might die from the sweetness overload. Solaire certainly feels like that might be his fate, his heart is beating so...

"I'd watch paint dry, as long as I was with you," he says, softly, clearly captivated by the feel of Gwyndolin's lips on his fingers. "Grass growing would be a thrill, as long as I held your hand."
[10:47 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles softly, and nuzzles Solaire's fingers a moment- Líadan has certainly left the room to give them a bit of privacy, something she hadn't done the last couple times Solaire had visited. Is this.... trust????

"Well, hopefully, it's still a little less boring than either of those." He says, amusement in his voice. But finally, he pulls his hands away from Solaire's, so that he can lean over to the coffee table, to retrieve a small stack of colored boxes stacked there, which he now places across their laps, separating the stack into individual boxes- they're all jigsaw puzzles, of various pictures of floral arrangements or beautiful estates or landscapes. "I was hoping... you could do a puzzle with me?"
[10:58 PM] Sunlit Solaire blinks, and laughs, and says, "I haven't done a jigsaw since I was twelve...! I'd love to, though." He looks at Gwyndolin, smiling, then looks down at the puzzles, looking through them. "Did you have one in mind, or should we choose one together? And are you hungry? We could eat while we... sort out the pieces...? That's a thing you do with jigsaws, right?"
[10:59 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles softly. "Well, these might be a bit more complicated than one you might do at twelve..." They're at least a couple hundred pieces. "I was hoping you'd pick with me? I've been meaning to do all of these, so I have no particular favorite... We could certainly eat while we sort out the corners and edges!"
[11:01 PM] Sunlit Solaire hums, and selects one that has lots of different flowers, all sorts of colors, instead of a big stretch of blue sky or something. "How about this one? It looks a little easier than the landscapes... and if we finish it, we can start another."
[11:04 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is absolutely [b]beaming[/b] that Solaire is showing interest!! "Yes! Alright! Oh, good, I'd love to do more than one if it won't bore you!" Aaaa, he can't help but wriggle in his seat, kicking his feet just a little. He immediately sets aside all the other puzzles and clears a space on the coffee table, opening the box and (carefully) dumping the pieces out. Then, he cleverly sorts the box and lid together at an angle, so that the picture is upright and looking at them while they work on the puzzle. "There! Oh, but we should probably look at the food, at least... What did you bring?"
[11:16 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, brightly, "Oh, a bit of this and that, sandwiches and pasties if you want something robust, some cakes and eclairs if you want something sweet, and I bought a tin of tea that seemed like something you might like-- it's a mint oolong? It sounded nice to me..." He smiles at Gwyndolin, and says, "It's probably more than we can eat in one sitting, but I wanted to make sure there was something you'd enjoy, even if you couldn't order it yourself."
[11:19 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is all smiles as Solaire lists things off, and claps his hands delighted. "The tea sounds wonderful! I could ask Líadan to get it prepared? Líadan!" He calls out her name, and she appears in a moment, Gwyndolin passing the tin to her with soft pleases and thank yous, and off she goes- "Oh, the eclaires sound wonderful though... But I should probably at least have a pasty before I get to the sweets, or Líadan will be cross with me."
[11:24 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles, and leans over to kiss Gwyndolin's cheek, and asks, "What kind would you like? I got minted lamb, and a cornish pasty, and a chorizo and pepper one-- that one's probably a bit spicy... and one that's beef and ale and mushrooms?" It's up to Gwyndolin to choose, but they're all scrumptious, surely!
[11:25 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin practically makes sparkly eyes at Solaire, and says, eagerly, downright hungrily, "Oh, the lamb, please! My mouth is already watering!"
[11:27 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, and fetches it, offering it to Gwyndolin with a paper napkin to protect his clothes. "Enjoy it, dear Gwyndolin," he says, and claims the chorizo one for himself. It is, in fact, very spicy, and he loves it, the madman.
[11:28 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin steals a taste of Solaire's lips first before either of them dig into their pasties- a quick little smooch at Solaire's mouth. Mwah! And then he tucks in, having his nibbles, before leaning back over the puzzle as he chews, to start his task of picking out the edge pieces.
[11:31 PM] Sunlit Solaire oh well in that case how can solaire eat when it'd take away the taste of Gwyndolin's mouth? guess he'll just starve forever
[11:32 PM] Sunlit Solaire is much less focused than Gwyndolin when he leans over to help the sorting, his face pink and his eyes drifting from the puzzle to Gwyndolin's face and hands and arms and just... his lovely everything. He's so in love. They've only known each other a very little while, but oh, he's so, so in love...
[11:34 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin nibbles at his pasty, humming softly between swallows and bites, while sorting out the pieces... He's quite adept at it, with a keen eye, easily picking out the edge pieces from the pile, which he also spreads out a bit. But he also leans towards Solaire, not quite noticing the loving gazes he's receiving, but bumping their shoulders gently nonetheless.
[11:45 PM] Sunlit Solaire is not going to be able to stop admiring Gwyndolin when he's all close and bumping against him and so cleverly and keenly picking out pieces that Solaire can barely tell apart. God, what a perfect man... Solaire is almost sure that the tears in his eyes are from the chorizo pasty, but Gwyndolin being spectacular surely doesn't hurt.

After a bit, he says, softly, "I should have picked a more beautiful puzzle, so it would stand a chance against the temptation to look at you..."
[11:52 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin squeaks softly around a mouthful of lamb, and goes very red, and has to put his fingertips to his mouth as he finishes his mouthful, averting his eyes shyly. "G-Goodness, Solaire..." He murmurs, absolutely flattered, looking bashfully over at his handsome boyfriend. "You are really too sweet... And I was supposed to have my pasty before dessert!"

Also, not quite meaning to interrupt the flirting, Líadan returns, bearing two cups of the mint oolong Solaire brought along, setting them on the table. "Thank you, Líadan." Gwyndolin says warmly, before turning to give Solaire's cheek a peck. "You spoil me, and we're only on our second date..."
[11:58 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, blushing himself, and also thanks Líadan before telling Gwyndolin, "I'm only as sweet and spoiling as you deserve, dear Gwyndolin... and surely not even that much! You deserve sweetness like marshmallow fluff and Cadbury eggs and treacle pudding, and spoiling like-- hmm-- well, there's no good food simile for spoiling that's not a bit gross." He smiles, adoringly bashful, and says, "I'm glad what sweetness I can give pleases you, though."

He leans over to kiss Gwyndolin's cheek in return, and then, flushed from ear to ear, sets himself to eating the rest of his pasty and discovering a couple edge pieces before deciding Gwyndolin has that covered; instead, he starts sorting out the non-edge pieces by color.
[12:00 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin can't help but laugh, bright and sheepish and so very flattered and terribly entertained, his cheeks pink. Líadan gives them both a knowing look, before stepping back out. "Oh, sweet Solaire..." He says, a sigh in his voice, taking a moment to pause after sorting out all the edge pieces that he can find, leaving his shoulder against the other man's. "What ever am I going to do with you?"

He giggles softly, and then says, "Aside from going on more dates," and then continues to eat his pasty, looking quite pleased with himself.
[12:02 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, even more bashful and more than a little shy, "I think that would be absolutely the best thing to do with me, really. I'd like that very much." His ears are burning and he can't stop smiling. This is the most thrilling puzzle he has ever assembled.
[12:04 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles again, and gives one more smooch to Solaire's cheek, before finally polishing off his pasty, brushing off his hands. "It's a good thing that's already on the agenda, then." He says, rather firmly, a smile on his face, and he scoops up his cup of tea to first blow off some of the steam, before taking a tentative sip. "Mmh- I normally like sweetened teas, but this is quite good..."
[12:13 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, faintly, "Oh, good, I'm glad you like it," while his heart tries to beat out of his chest and his belly tries to flip like a pancake. He's dying? But dying happily. But extremely dying.

He finishes the last bite of his pasty and washes it down with some tea, humming in appreciation. "It is nice..." he agrees, red with fluster and from the spicy food and from Gwyndolin being so close. Last date they sat across from each other, even if they had a kiss at the end... this is entirely overwhelming Solaire's senses, having Gwyndolin's slight, cool body so close, the smell of his conditioner or body wash or lotion or something teasing Solaire's nose, his lips finding Solaire's cheek like rose petals... puzzle assembly is a delight with Gwyndolin beside him, but also nearly impossible with Gwyndolin beside him.
[12:16 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is happy to do most of the work with the puzzle, because having Solaire beside him and at least trying to participate and enjoying himself is the true joy he's taking in the activity right now. He sets his tea down, so that he can have one hand free to start linking like edge pieces together- because his other hand is busy curling gently around Solaire's, so that they can be arm-in-arm as they sit on the couch together.

Solaire isn't the only one taking absolute joy in being able to sit close together like this.
[12:21 AM] Sunlit Solaire iS EXTREMELY DYING?

Eventually he manages to bring his focus back to the puzzle, but it's hard, so hard, when Gwyndolin is right there, smelling so nice-- Solaire wants to press his face into the crook of Gwyndolin's neck and just breath in the smell of him, hold his slim body in his arms and warm it, touch his hair, kiss those soft, soft lips...  but, right, puzzle, right. He matches two pieces together and makes a satisfied noise, then gets back to sorting the colors, his fingers lacing between Gwyndolin's where their hands are linked.
[12:23 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin makes a soft, pleased noise, and occasionally pauses in his work to take a sip of tea, but is largely concentrated on a) putting edge pieces together in a coherent way and b) rubbing the back of Solaire's hand with his thumb. These are both very important things! But only one of them has his cheeks warm and pink.

He stops, though once he has the entire outer frame pieced together, so that he can smile over at Solaire. "This is so nice," He says softly, before laying his head on the man's shoulder. "I'm so happy you joined me in this..."
[12:27 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, softly, "I'm happy you let me join you. I-- I think this might be even better than if we'd gone out." He's smiling, too, and turns his head, to press his face into Gwyndolin's hair... wow... and smell it... and press a kiss to the crown of his head, gently. "Though if the butterflies in my stomach start beating any harder, I think I might take flight and sail out the window..."
[12:29 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin laughs a little, and begs, "Oh, please, don't! We haven't even finished the puzzle, and I'm not ready for us to part..!" He takes his hand from Solaire's, to instead hug his arm entirely with both his own. "I'll just have to hold onto you, then. I hope my meager weight is enough to keep you grounded!"
[12:32 AM] Sunlit Solaire can't help but laugh, and suggests, shyly bold, "I think you might be, but surely you'd have a better grip if your arms were around my torso?" You know... if Gwyndolin wanted to snuggle...
[12:34 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles brightly, and lets go of Solaire's arm, to instead wrap around his middle, and hug him as tight as Gwyndolin's arms can muster! "Like this~?" He asks, a slightly teasing tone in his voice. Looks like Gwyndolin DOES want to snuggle! He promptly puts his head back down on Solaire's shoulder and sighs fondly. "I can't exactly do my puzzle like this, though... Ahh, but it's so nice."
[12:37 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, "Yes, exactly like that," and turns, just a little, just enough to drape his warm, strong arms around Gwyndolin's shoulders in return. "And the puzzle is probably butterfly-free--" Hmm! He peers at the box lid, and confirms, laughing, "Yes, not a single butterfly, so it ought to stay where you've put it." So there's plenty of time for Solaire to gently smooth the palm of one hand over Gwyndolin's shoulder blades!
[12:39 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin makes a soft, delighted noise- followed by a little laugh. "It's incredible that the butterflies have chosen your stomach, rather than the flowers in my puzzle!" He says, joking, and crosses his ankles together... Yes, he is very, very, very much liking this. "Do you like it so far, by the way? The puzzle, I mean? My father sent it to me."
[12:43 AM] Sunlit Solaire absolutely giggles, and says, "Maybe they found that sweetness I had stockpiled for you?" He kisses Gwyndolin's hair again, and walks his fingers up to his hair, stroking it lightly-- ohhh, it's like gossamer, like moonlight spun into silk, wow-- and says, "I have to admit, I've been so preoccupied with admiring you, I've hardly noticed the puzzle. It's certainly not unenjoyable, though, and you're so very good at spotting the edge pieces... it's rather spectacular watching you work at it, even if it means I'm not much help."
[12:46 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin also absolutely giggles, and giggles more at the way Solaire walks his fingers up to his hair, what a cute dork! Wow!! Golly!!! To think he lucked out so hard to have such a cute sweetheart literally drop onto his doorstep!!

"Well, I'm glad you're enjoying it that much, at least. That means you're enjoying it with me... even if it's mostly the 'me' part you enjoy, ahaha!" He's hardly insulted- mostly flattered, really. "I do love puzzles, though. Maybe sometime I can show you the ones I've already completed? I like to frame them."
[01:03 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, "You can do that with puzzles?" He sounds amused, but interested, and agrees, "I'd love to see them, Gwyndolin. I had no idea you liked puzzles so much, or I would have gotten you one instead of--"

Oh! The gifts! He'd totally forgotten about them! He makes a startled noise and pulls back, and says, "I forgot to give you your gifts! You're just too nice and distracting to look at, dear Gwyndolin..."
[01:05 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin starts to say, "Yes! You can use glue to keep them stuck together permanently-" but then Solaire distracts him with talking about GIFTS?? "G- You brought me gifts??" He asks, straightening up, looking totally shocked. "Besides the food? Oh, Solaire, you didn't need to...!"

But his face is going red regardless, and he touches a hand to his own warm cheek, a little wide-eyed with pleasant surprise, even if he has his own flock of butterflies in his belly now.
[01:10 AM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, and says, "W-well, maybe not besides the food--" and reaches over to the bag, fussing around for a moment and pulling out the bottle of wine and a long, slender box. "I wasn't sure if you drank or not, but if you do, this should be really sweet and lovely... rather like you," he says, displaying the wine for a moment, "and if not, you can give it to Líadan or that Ornstein fellow who walked me up from the gate, as my thanks to them for looking out for you?" He offers the box without comment, letting Gwyndolin find the single blush-edged rose on his own.
[01:15 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin brightens more when Solaire retrieves the bottle of wine and the box- "A rosé! Oh, you are a smart cookie- how did you guess my favorite wine??" Smart Solaire!! He's so smart, he gets a delicate hand cupping his chin to hold his face still so that Gwyndolin can kiss the corner of his mouth, before accepting the two gifts. "I don't drink much, but when I do, it's usually a nice rosé... Thank you!"

Giggles bubble up from him as he sets the wine down on the table, and then busies himself with the box- only to gasp when he finds the rose within, bringing his fingertips up to his lips. "Oh...! Oh, Solaire, it's lovely..."
[01:16 AM] Sunlit Solaire is dying? again? oh... kisses... kisses...! kisses.......... <3
[01:19 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, "Didn't I tell you? I'm psychic, but it only works when I'm thinking about people I want to like me." He's very pink, and very smiling, and his toes are maybe curling in his shoes. "The rose should have its stem trimmed and be put in a vase if you want to keep it fresh, but the lady who sold it to me assured me that it also ought to dry really nicely, if you wanted to keep it longer..."
[01:22 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is absolutely kicking his feets a little in outright excitement at the beautiful gift!" Oh, Solaire, I love it! You're so thoughtful!" He says, and absolutely has to lean over and cup Solaire's face again- with both hands, this time, and kissing him on the lips directly before pulling away. "I am absolutely going to dry it! It will be beautiful! Oh, Solaire, you're such a sweetheart..."
[01:24 AM] Sunlit Solaire lets a laugh bubble up from inside him, and says, flushed redder than ever, "I'm not the one giving the sweetest kisses in the world, though...! Surely I can't compare with that kind of sweetness..."
[01:25 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles, and carefully sets the boxed rose on the table, beside the puzzle, before turning back to Solaire, turning in his seat so that his knees bump against Solaire's leg. "Well... Perhaps you could." He says softly, face quite red and eyes soft and shining at Solaire. "You could, perhaps... give me some sweet kisses of your own?"
[01:30 AM] Sunlit Solaire says "oh!" and giggles, a little nervously. "I might taste like chorizo," he warns, but cups Gwyndolin's face in his hands all the same, leaning close, brushing their noses together in a bunny kiss. "Not nearly as pleasant second-hand as mint and lamb..."
[01:32 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin whines softly, but accepts the bunny kisses, albeit with a sigh through his nose. "I am not one for spiciness, but I think I can tolerate it in order to share a kiss or three with you..."
[01:32 AM] Sunlit Solaire: ((oh i think he'll find he's one for spiciness,))
[01:33 AM] Sunlit Solaire: (( EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES  EYES ))
[01:33 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin: (( AYYOOOOOOOO ))
[01:33 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin: (( but lbr he might have to have solaire borrow a toothbrush and brush his teeth first lmfao ))
[01:34 AM] Sunlit Solaire: ((ehehe))
[01:37 AM] Sunlit Solaire will give him a kiss, then, gentle and soft and sweet, thumbs petting his cheeks and warm, strong fingers spread across his jaw and neck, gently supporting his perfect face. Ahhh, it's so good, it's amazing, Solaire just... he needs to... he wants to...

Solaire kisses Gwyndolin again, and again, and then pulls back, his whole face pink and his heart pounding, and licks his lips. "Dear Gwyndolin..." he starts, breathless with adoration, "...it's not fair that you're so beautiful. How is a mortal like me supposed to survive kissing you?"
[01:42 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin promptly melts the moment their lips meet for a proper, lingering kiss, warm hands cupping his face and neck, Gwyndolin's eyes fluttering shut... He languidly returns each and every kiss Solaire gifts him, and when the other man finally pulls away, he feels like his lips are tingling, and his eyes flutter back open.

"Oh, Solaire, you goofball..." He teases, giving a playful shove to Solaire's shoulder. "I'm just as mortal as you!" And then, he licks his lips as well with a dainty swipe of his tongue- and then discovers he wasn't imagining that his lips were tingling. "Oh! Oh, spicy!" He exclaims, and cups a hand over his mouth. He starts to laugh, but it looks just slightly pained, even if he's clearly finding it hilarious. "Oh, my goodness, that pasty of yours is much too spicy for me, even secondh-hand! Ahaha! Oh, please, Solaire... G-Go brush your teeth- ask L-Líadan to direct you, o-oh... G-Goodness, hahhh, ahaha!"
[01:45 AM] Sunlit Solaire bursts into startled laughter, and urges Gwyndolin, "Drink your tea before your tongue burns off from heat, my sweet!" even as he pulls away, giggling. "I-- I'll be right back, dearheart--" he assures, and trots off to get directions from Líadan to where he can brush his teeth and save Gwyndolin from spicy mouth.
[01:46 AM] Sunlit Solaire: ((alas i love you and i love this scene and gwyndolin is? the cutest? wow? but i think i gotta hav snooz)
[01:46 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin: (( me too tbh. goodnight!! ))