What Could be Normal

Sliding his headphones off at the point when he can no longer ignore the stiffness of his own body the raven stands and places his blanket and electronic devices on his bed. Going over to his wardrobe he pulls out the outfit he'd picked the day before and heads for the bathroom. Routinely placing the clothes down once he enters he shuts the door and avoids the mirror. Undressing was to the painful reminder of his grit and stains but he bypassed them with alternate thoughts.

Stepping into the shower he turns it on and avoids the bar of soap, every time he used it his skin would be rubbed raw and he would feel every caress of wind or vibration of movement. He still felt stained, disgusting and absolutely unworthy. But Vince had chosen him, the other still wanted him and that was enough encouragement for the raven. Pouring some liquid soap onto a washer Xavier rubs it over his body, ridding himself of the sweat his nightmares created and hopefully his visage of sleep deprivation.

Once he's done, or tells himself he is the raven stands under the spray and allows the suds to wash away. If he let his guard down he could feel the crawling under his skin, the grit and grime of his being trying to get out and stain others. Trying to turn him coal black and reveal his true nature. Gritting his teeth he quickly shuts off the water and gets out, grabbing a towel he dries off and quickly dresses.

He'd chosen some tight but comfy jeans along with an electric blue singlet and a black jacket. Leaving the jacket unzipped but making sure it covers his wrists Xavier finally turns to the mirror. His general appearance was fine, but once he looked at his face it was obvious he was unwell. Reaching forwards he opens the cupboard and pulls out something he'd purchased to avoid worrying the others. Foundation. He felt like a weaker version of himself, but it was better than having everyone staring at him and sighing constantly.

Applying it with a newfound ease to under his eyes he places the bottle away once he's sure it's done. Pulling back he nods at his reflection, now he actually looked normal. Styling his hair he fidgets for a bit in front of the mirror then pauses as a smile rises.

This was new. Welcomed of course, but new. This feeling. Laughing softly the raven catches his expression and honestly can't push down his smile. He felt alive, for the first time in so long he felt normal. Grinning jovially the teen finally leaves the bathroom and heads to his room.

Once inside he gives it a quick, mostly useless clean before grabbing his wallet, phone and shoes. Heading out to the kitchen he places his wallet and phone down before he sits and pulls the shoes on. Standing up he looks down and hopes his clothing choice is decent enough before he shakes his head and heads over to the counter. Getting out various ingredients he glances at the time, it was only six in the morning.

Making an effort to be quiet the teen moves about the kitchen as he simultaneously makes breakfast for his family and lunch for his date. Flipping the eggs and bacon he returns to buttering the sandwiches and placing their toppings on.

Cooking was something he'd found was surprisingly relaxing, he could focus solely on the task and he loved the expressions others would make when eating his food. Without realising it he starts to hum as he plates up some of the food, wraps up the sandwiches, then moves onto making more.

By the time he was done he'd cooked up a feast of bacon, eggs, toast, beans, and hash browns for breakfast and sandwiches, muffins and drinks for his lunch. Smiling he puts the breakfast on the table along with plates for Mason and Lucia before he heads back to his room to find a big enough bag. Shuffling through his things he catches his reflection and laughs again. Despite his feelings last night he was so happy right now, flushing slightly he stands once he finds the bag. He really couldn't wait to see Vince again. This rollercoaster of emotions was perhaps too sudden, perhaps too fragile, but it wasn't something he was going to question.

Humming again he heads back out to the kitchen and over to the counter, grabbing the containers and bottles and cups he puts them all in before turning to the table to grab his wallet and phone. Spotting Mason at the last minute he jumps slightly, humming halting as a flush bursts out across his cheeks. The other was watching him with his aquamarine gaze, the corners of his eyes slanted upwards as his frame shook with silent laughter. A small bit of bacon hung from his lips telling Xavier that his brother had come out to eat.

"Good morning brother mine" He says cheekily as he pulls the unfinished strip of bacon from his mouth, the smile on his face making it hard for Xavier to recall that the other had been crying outside his door last night. Stuttering slightly Xavier quickly grabs his things and puts them in the bag before he turns to his brother who is still wearing his cheeky smile. Mason knew he'd seen something rare, but Xavier really couldn't bring himself to be angry or fully embarrassed due to the honest relief in the other's eyes.

"Mornin'" He replies, voice slightly gruff, clearing his throat after he sits down and picks up a few bits of food, moving them onto a plate he looks back over to his brother whose smile has turned somewhat worrying. "..what?" He makes himself ask.

Grinning Mason leans forwards, his elbow on the table and chin resting on his open palm. His eyes sparkle with amusement at the ravens state and he withholds his thoughts for a while longer before he finally says anything.

"Your date with Vince is today right?" He teases, causing Xavier to choke slightly on his bacon when he inhales sharply to reply. Coughing a bit he clears his throat before looking at his supposed brother, the expression of amusement still present.

"Yes" He says, simply, not wanting to say any more in case the other has something up his sleeve. Picking up another bit of food he keeps his gaze on Mason as the brunet does the same. A coy smile in place now as his eyes wander about the kitchen. Sighing Xavier shakes off his worry and just starts eating, he hasn't had much of an appetite but he knows he needs to eat otherwise his health will only get worse.

After a few more minutes of silent eating Mason finally stands and on his way past ruffles Xavier's hair with a laugh. "Have fun" he calls over his shoulder as he heads in the direction of the bathroom.

Huffing to himself Xavier picks at his food for a bit longer before checking through the bag to make sure he has everything. Once he's sure he stands and paces about the house, unpleasant thoughts the furthest thing from his mind as it focuses solely on Vince.

After what feels like hours have passed the raven finally hears a knock on the door and all but runs over. Flinging it open he grins widely when he spots the blond and quickly launches himself at the other. Giving the blond a light punch on his shoulder the other laughs and returns the hit with a smile.

"Hello Xavier" he says as he plants a kiss on the teens cheek. Grinning the raven returns the gesture with his own greeting, only to be interrupted by a simultaneous clearing of throats both behind himself and behind Vince. Looking over the blond's shoulder Xavier spots a head of red hair and grins as he waves slightly at Kyle. The other just rolls his honey gaze as he casually brushes past them and into Xavier's home.

Xavier turns in time to see Kyle lean down and press a soft kiss to Mason's cheek and whisper something in the brunet's ear. The words earn him a punch in the ribs but he just continues inside, his joyous laughter following his journey. With a sigh Mason pushes his glasses up as he waves in the direction of Vince and Xavier, no doubt shooing them away. Exchanging a glance with the blond Xavier laughs as they quickly leave, Mason slamming the door behind them no doubt in fluster.

Walking together with Vince down the path and onto the street he turns to the other with a grin. "Where are we headed to first?" He asks, only to receive a casual shrug as the blond starts leading the way.

"I was planning on going to the new shopping centre" He answers as his chestnut eyes look back to azure. "That cool?" He questions back, a grin on his face as he holds out his hand. Nodding in answer Xavier takes the offered hand and swings them together with a smile. The bag on his shoulder rocks with the movement of walking and his eyes roam about a bit, the sky had partially cleared but clouds hung about with a silent threat for a later storm.

Once they arrive at the shops the two teens walk in and around each small sector as they look at different products, Xavier spending most of his time in the music shop as he drags Vince along and points out the different amps and kits and such, his eyes alight as he rambles about how much he loved them all but lamenting about how he was so poor.

Mid way through a rant about a kit he hears a chuckle seemingly slip free of his partners mouth, turning he looks at Vincent who's looking away, his form shaking in obvious laughter as he does his best not to meet the ravens eyes.

"Wh-what?" Xavier stammers out, clearly embarrassed. Making an effort to tug away his hand his flush deepens as Vince's grip only tightens and the other looks down at him with a sweet smile, the occasional chuckle still leaving his parted lips.

"You're just so cute like this" He says as if in explanation, but the words only embarrass the raven further. Stammering more he shakes his head as he quickly storms out of the store, but the blond keeps his grip on him and is simply dragged along even though Xavier had been trying to get away. Once outside the raven looks anywhere but at the other who sighs a bit and hugs him from behind, obviously having no issue with public displays of affection. Nuzzling Xavier's neck he murmurs a small apology.

"It's just a bit hard to stay calm when I see you so animated. Is it bad to think you're cute talking about stuff you like?" He adds, only adding to the tight sensation in Xavier's chest. Standing still for a moment the raven eventually melts in the hold with a sigh, shaking his head in denial of the words he brushes over them and finds a new topic.

"Where to next?" He asks as the other pulls out from his neck and looks around. Those eyes soon land on a store and the other grins as he lets the raven free of the embrace before grabbing his hand and leading him over. Looking past the other curiously Xavier's eyes find the pet store and he can't help his grin as he raises a brow.

When they go inside Vince takes them over to look at the puppies, watching the fluffy bundles of joy with the blond as the little animals jump at them, getting as close to the glass as they can as their bright eyes lock on them. Laughing at the adorable display the raven casts his gaze around. Going around with Vince to see the various birds, fish, and even reptiles the raven is definitely enjoying himself. On the loop out he spots a kitten enclosure and makes a b-line for it eagerly.

Tugging the blonds hand as he heads over, once there he crouches and looks at all of them lazing about. Moving his hand he pokes the glass, and chuckles when a kitten comes up and attempts to paw at his finger. Looking at each of the little kittens his eyes land on one in the corner, the tortoiseshell cat almost seemed hostile, but somehow Xavier felt it was sulking.

Unusually drawn to the creature he looks to Vince who raises a brow in question, a soft smile on his face. "Want me to call an attendant over?" He asks, letting out a huff of a laugh when Xavier agrees. As the other heads off Xavier focuses back on the kitten, who seems to have noticed his attention by now and was subtly hissing in warning at him. Grinning Xavier taps the glass, calling the kitten over, but it just huffs a bit as it looks away.

He knew then and there that he wanted it. Cats and dogs were both wonderful creatures to Xavier, but he found cats to be more appealing. What most disliked about them was what he thought their best part was: their independence and maturity.

When the attendant returns she smiles at Xavier as she asks which one he wants to look at. Pointing to the tortoiseshell cat he receives a bit of a worried glance.

"Sir that cat is very hostile, it bites and attacks anyone who looks at it" She warns, however Xavier just shrugs with a light hum.

"Could you open it up please?" He asks as he looks back to the kitten, its wide golden and green gaze is looking up at him almost as if in fear and he thinks hope. The attendant sighs slightly before she unlocks the top and steps aside, reaching in Xavier picks up the little kitten gently, though it struggles and hisses at him. Standing up straight he smiles at it.

"I'm Xavier" He introduces to the creature, only to earn its confused gaze. Its wide eyes look at him and he can see the true nature of the animal for a moment before its sharp teeth lock onto the skin of his hand. Hissing in pain he almost drops the cat but Vince's hands quickly slide under the ravens and keep the kitten in his grip.

"Careful there stupid" the other jokes with a huff as he moves one hand to pet the kitten that now slowly releases its grip on his hand and looks at him hopefully, its gaze flicking to Vince before back to Xavier. "I think it likes you" Vince murmurs in the ravens ear, quietly so as to not scare the kitten further. Grinning at the words Xavier leans forwards and nuzzles his nose against the kittens.

"Come home with me kitty" He says softly and pulls back, after a moment of the kitten just staring at him it blinks and with a soft purr leans down and licks where it bit as if in apology. Smiling both Xavier and Vince laugh a bit, turning to the attendant who had been watching rather worriedly Xavier declares his wish to buy the cat and she gives him a smile.

He worries about his impulsivity, however while he's going about the process of paperwork he manages to send a message and receive a response of approval from Miss Lucia. The condition being the creature not destroy their church and lives equally inside and outside the house.

After being taken around the store and gathering everything he'll need Xavier buys it all with the money he'd been saving, resisting a bit when Vince insisted he at least pay for the kitten. But not able to keep denying him in the end. Leaving the store with a fair few bags and the kitten who now seemed rather attached and was simply resting on his shoulder contently Xavier turns to Vince with a grin.

"Should we go eat?" He suggests, getting an enthusiastic yes from Vince as they head outside and over to a nearby park. Xavier was a little worried about his new kitten as they walk, thinking the people and noise around might frighten it. So when they arrive he gently puts it into the carrier to keep it safe.

He'd named the kitten Mekal earlier so he coos to it as he takes out the food. Placing it all on the grass he opens his container and pulls out a sandwich, watching as Vincent does the same. Eating the food they chat together contently and once they're done they grab out one of the toys and play with Mekal. Laughing as the once hostile bundle bounces around in an attempt to catch the toy.

Eventually Xavier finds himself between Vince's spread legs and leaning back onto his chest as Mekal lays on his own legs. Smiling as the blond kisses his neck Xavier hums happily and looks up at the sky.

"Have you had fun Xavier?" The other questions softly, head on the ravens shoulder looking up a him curiously. Looking down Xavier smiles and kisses the others ear.

"Heaps of fun" He answers, his hand distractedly petting the resting kitten as the other raises and ruffles Vince's hair. "Thanks" He says with a light laugh, not really wanting to delve into how much the other had helped him by all that he'd done. Let alone just the day they'd had where he'd been able to feel normal again.. Vince smiles at the wordsl and quickly kisses Xavier's cheek before carefully detangling himself and gathering their stuff.

"Good, come on it's gonna rain soon" He says as he holds a hand out to Xavier who after moving Mekal back into his carrier accepts the offer and with the help of the other stands. Splitting up their bags between them he proudly takes some of the heavier ones, maybe in part to show off his strength to which the blond just rolls his eyes.

Sighing at the lack of appreciation Xavier shakes his head and complains to Mekal who just looks at him with wide curious eyes before silencing him with a lick on his finger poking through the bars. After pausing at the action Xavier chuckles a little and Vince scoffs.

"I should use that trick if it silences you so quickly" He teases with a wink, only laughing more when Xavier hits his shoulder and walks faster. Vince just grins as he chuckles and reaches a hand out to catch one of Xavier's. The raven slows his pace at the grip but makes no comment as they continue the stroll home.

Smiling to himself Xavier hears the slight purr from Mekal as he gets comfy, turning his head a little he looks over to Vince who grins at him and starts a conversation. He mostly lets the other talk for now as he replies occasionally and by the time they get back the chatter is casually flowing and Mekal is well and truly asleep inside the small carrier.

Once at the door Xavier goes to open it but pauses when Vince tugs his hand. Turning back to face the other he raises a curious brow. "Before we go inside we should officially end the date" The other says with a shy smile, a light shimmer of red on his cheekbones. It takes a moment for the words to sink for the raven in but when they do his eyes go wide and he's about to hide his face in fluster but Vince's already leaning in.

He's getting closer and closer and those soft chocolate eyes are melting away Xavier's embarrassment, feeling the breath from Vince's lips puff across his own he feels his eyes flutter and without his consent they close. Warmth wraps around his waist as Vince's arm draws him closer, he feels the others lips brush his own before he leans up and seals the last of the distance of his own accord. It wasn't his first kiss, really it wasn't, but the way his body reacted sent jolts through him, his lips brushing against Vince as the other naturally syncs in. He can't help but feel like it was absolutely everything he'd ever wanted as the warmth of Vincent wraps around him and the chilled world fades from his mind. Wrapping his arms around the others neck Xavier parts his lips to breathe in and lets out a soft sound when Vince's tongue slides between them before he pulls away.

Wrapped in their embrace Xavier takes small, shaky breaths as his eyes open and meet that now smouldering chocolate. After a moment a sweet smile spreads across Vince's face as he laughs lightly, leaning in he hugs the raven tightly.

"You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that for" he whispers, and the utter content of his tone has Xavier smiling. Nuzzling Vince for a moment longer he pulls back and fiddles with his bags as he picks them back up.

"Thank-you for today" He says with a genuine smile, to which Vince returns by caressing his cheek and another soft kiss to his lips.

"I'll see you later" He says with a whisper of a tone before he grabs his bag from the pile he'd put down and with a wave he leaves. Standing in front of the door Xavier smiles to himself as he turns back to the door he pauses when he hears whispering.

"Do you think they're done?"

"How should I know?! You're the one with a cup pressed to the door!"

"But Mason!"

"No butts! You're spying Kyle! Xavier will kill you!"

Flushing brightly Xavier quickly flings the door open and is met with the sight of Mason tugging on Kyle's shoulder, as if to get the redhead away from the door, and Kyle slowly lowering the cup that he has in one hand with his bag in the other. Upon sight of the thoroughly embarrassed raven the other chuckles nervously as he holds his bag up.

"Y-you see Xavier I was just about to leave when-"

"Kyle! You mornon!" Xavier cuts off as he attempts to lunge at his best friend, but the other simply laughs as he dodges back behind Mason, and with a quick kiss to the others cheek he rushes out the door.

"Bye-bye Xavier, Mason!" He calls as he rushes off, his red hair seen above the fence as he catches up to the blond.

Still flushed Xavier turns to Mason who has flushed slightly himself, they stand there for a moment of silence as the rain starts to fall outside until finally Mason adjusts his glasses and clears his throat.

"I see you got a cat"