Open RP Post

[hextechhead]

Jayce Talis Open Post

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caught in the rain

[mehanizovati]

It's quite the cliche, that Viktor could always sense a rainstorm coming with unnerving accuracy. The humidity is the culprit, not content simply to set his hair against him but his joints too, his bad leg aching as if in complaint at the incoming weather. Growing up he paid more attention, given the rains of Zaun were dangerous times all the chemicals building up around them seeped into the droplets.

In Piltover the rain is clean, and Viktor's attention went lax with it. A little extra ache was easily mistaken for too long standing in the lab or ignored completely. He has so much more now to focus on after all, days and nights spent shooting ideas back and forth with Jayce, Hextech growing in pleasing bounds over chalkdust and half empty mugs scattered about.

That's why the first drop of rain surprises him. It is evening in the city, the tail end of a lengthy trip to try and coax an uppity noble into showing them his rare manuscripts on the arcane. Typically Viktor left smoozing to Jayce but the man refused to let the books leave his library or be copied, so of course they were forced to make small talk with the infuriating man.

At the very least the manuscripts were incredibly useful, especially the ones pertaining to runes. That doesn't stop him from sighing in relief when they leave the noble's house. Just a long walk back to the academy district now.

"For tonight alone I take back any quip I've made when you whined about dealing with people like that," Viktor informs Jayce, glancing up when that first stray rain drop does its job and surprises him by falling on his temple. He ignores it in favor of regarding his partner.

[hextechhead]

Jayce leans in the opposite direction, being more oblivious than most to what is happening around him. It is one of his blind spots, hyper-focused on one or two things at a time, and indifferent to anything outside of his work. It is that kind of negligence that led to his apartment blowing up and starting this entire thing, although he still has no idea who broke in. It wouldn't occur to him to care about the weather when they have arcane information to search for. He is healthy and strong so has the benefit of boundless energy.

He is much better at chatting with people like this noble, but it does not mean he likes it. Some people are worth engaging with, such as Mel, but more of them are like this man. Still, he has incredible manuscripts and information, and Jayce eagerly takes advantage of his bright and warm persona to charm the man. He would have loved to pour over the manuscripts himself, but it made more sense for them to tag team, for Viktor to focus on the information they needed, and Jayce to get them more time. This is why they make good partners. They didn't even have to discuss the strategy going in; it was a natural split of effort.

They were longer than he expected and it is only now with the road ahead of him he gives any thought to the weather or the walk back. Jayce frowns up at the sky like it is betraying him by being troublesome, and his able-bodied obliviousness is put aside and replaced with concern for Viktor. It is a distance. And it is rain. Not that he would ever be so unwise as to bring that up without Viktor indicating whether something was difficult for him or not. He can be an idiot, but he always does mean well.

"I take it you're satisfied with the information that we got, at least. It could've been worse." Like they followed a possibility and came up empty. Or Jayce had to deal with someone more obnoxious than the typical pompous noble. He would ordinarily pick up the pace with rain starting to sprinkle down, but then Viktor might feel required to keep up.

"It's crazy that not that long ago, I wouldn't have dared to even bring up the arcane to anyone. Now people are eager to show off their collections." If it means something, if it can make them special when Hextech takes off.

[mehanizovati]

"Mm, fairly satisfied," Viktor muses, taking a moment to center his thoughts around the information as a whole rather than the bright spots along the way. "I will write up copies of the relevant runes, that I found the most worthwhile of the work. There was an excess of tales or anecdotes weighing down the relevant information, but I will write that down as well later. Maybe you can make something of them."

Viktor doubts it but Jayce always seems so eager and fascinated by magic, beyond the practical applications that draw Viktor. No doubt he'd find some personal enjoyment in the tales, as useless as they were in their research. It would hardly hurt to indulge his research partner a little.

The rain starts to become a drizzle, light enough Viktor ignores it in favor of the conversation continuing. "They no doubt feel a level of gratitude, now finally able to brag without it being a social faux pas," he says, dry. Just took Jayce nearly losing everything.

[hextechhead]

"We never do know what may or may not be useful here." Jayce does like the stories and while most of the time they are of no use, they spark his interest and maybe some day it would be. After all, it was Jayce's own arcane story that led to where they were. He and his mother almost became lost in snow, his young life snuffed out before his mind could accomplish anything, and then there was magic. It all connects in the end. He wonders if he would ever meet the person who saved them, if they were even still out there.

The rain isn't a concern just yet, but it is starting to get on his nerves. He considers turning back to go ask the noble for an umbrella, but it is positive the man will talk his ear off for another half hour if he does. So they'll just have to make do. He does pick up the pace a little bit, but one that he knows Viktor can keep up with, they've worked together long enough for him to know these details. As oblivious as he can be, he remembers specific things well.

"You make a good point." No one thought magic would be not only useful but necessary. Jayce hid his own research because of how it would be frowned upon. "I learned not to talk about what happened to me when I was still a kid." His mother was one of the first to try and shush him, afraid of how people would react to her son rambling about magic and teleportation. "Do they ever talk about it in the Undercity?"

[mehanizovati]

That Jayce doesn't shrink away from picking up the pace is something Viktor likes about him - none of the posturing and overblown coddling, no barely contained irritation at having to walk slower than he might like. Better still if it means they'll get out of this weather quicker, the wind sending an a chill through him when it cuts sharply through the drizzle.

"Hm, I imagine that must have been difficult." Jayce was passionate enough now on the matter, a bright eyed child told to keep his mouth shut on the matter must have been a trial.

Jayce's question makes him give a quiet hum as he considers it, more so how to explain it in a way someone from Piltover might understand. "Yes, I suppose so, far more than topside certainly. The undercity does not have social taboos as Piltover does, and magic is alluring to those who are often powerless. Of course your crystal would have been stolen the moment you showed it off." But hey, he'd have a willing audience before that.

[hextechhead]

Jayce knows that Viktor hates being coddled, although he's never had to be told, he understood that from right when they met. When Viktor said everyone underestimated him for being a poor cripple from the undercity. That told him plenty, so he's found ways to work around Viktor's leg so he never feels condescended to while also not pushing it unreasonably. His partner is the smartest person he's ever met, he knows how to handle himself. Still, he can't deny incoming rain and wind are concerning. Jayce runs hot, between his bulk and endless energy, but he keeps an eye out for if there's somewhere they can duck into it if gets actually bad.

"I only stopped when it seemed like it would threaten my ability to get a patron and go to the academy." And yes, young Jayce had his ambitious eyes on the future, so he figured out his path very early. He had a strategic mind, but it's always been about the passion lying underneath, the certainty of his purpose. Shutting up was hard, but he did it.

Jayce instinctively touches the crystal where it is on his wrist, it's one of his most common tics, usually when he's thinking too much. He glances over at Viktor and smiles. "Too bad for me. I'm not sure if you've figured this out, but I'm kind of a show-off." Joking about some of his flaws is something he is getting better at, ever since Viktor dryly pointed out his egotism over his signature. "Is that why you think you were more open to listening to me?"

[mehanizovati]

"Bah, the politics here," Viktor sighs, a topic he's only recently come to actually speak on rather than pretend he finds all the smoozing and unwritten social rules anything other than stifling. He's certainly grateful Jayce kept to them enough so they could meet rather than being expelled or banished long before that time.

Another wind and Viktor shivers, even if his lips quirk at the joke. "You? I would have never guessed such a thing," is his dry reply, followed by a thoughtful, "Perhaps, at least compared to those born in Piltover. It was your notes that made the decision for me, in the end."

Before anything more can be said the light drizzle transforms into a full rain, crashing down with little regard to the chill. Viktor curses under his breath in a language he usually saves for such frustrations or half asleep research notes, raising his hand to try and shield his eyes and face as he looks around. Most stores already closed at this hour, though maybe there are awnings somewhere still rolled out, he hopes. He leans closer to Jayce when the wind cuts through again.

I made a fanvid! :D it's above in the post

[hextechhead]

"Yeah, they're ridiculous, I always knew I would have to find a way around them." Jayce was so driven for his goal that he would do anything to achieve it. Idealistic though he is about the possibilities, he knew there would be obstacles, and an uphill battle, which is why he originally did not plan on telling anyone until he had proof of it working. But he knows they have to exist within the system. They still have to play by some rules. They still have to let the Council guide some of their projects in order for them to get support. It's a game, and one he is fairly good at when he has to be.

"My notes --- damn." Jayce realizes they aren't going to make it just before the rain starts. He saw the shiver and was already concerned, but now he has to pick safety over treading carefully with Viktor's pride. His sharp eyes quickly take a look around and he spots an awning, putting an arm around his partner protectively as he leads him there. It keeps them from being rained on more, but Viktor is shivering from the rain.

Jayce pulls Viktor closer to his chest, keeping his arms snugly around him. "Body heat." He explains, as if he needs to explain that, but he is always more comfortable with physical affection than Viktor. And he really is hot-blooded, only somewhat feeling the wind in comparison. He wishes he thought to bring a jacket he could give Viktor, but this is the option. "Sorry," he adds, a little awkward in case Viktor doesn't like it. For him, it's frankly a piece of heaven.

"I put your name on everything now too." In case they need a conversation starter.

AHH it's great!! idk how people do that sort of thing and make it flow, you are powerful

[mehanizovati]

The first night he properly spoke to Jayce was when Viktor first realized his new partner was a tactile person. It took some getting used to, as Viktor decidedly was not someone who offered his personal space readily, but of course Jayce Talis and all his good natured warmth ended up an exception.

(If Viktor is being honest it's less an exception and more Jayce is the only one who has managed to sneak past his barriers, the only person who really even tried, and in doing so Viktor begrudgingly grew to like Jayce's warm palm on his shoulder from time to time. How very like Jayce to wheedle his way through Zaun's careful conditioning and leave him actually missing when Jayce would move his hand away. Ridiculous.)

So yes, he accepts Jayce pulling them under an awning with a huffed sigh at the weather, more focused on making sure he didn't lose his footing on the way over. It's only when Jayce doesn't pull away that he blinks up at him, the furnace of a man.

"I am not going to freeze," Viktor replies, the lack of sharpness and then the subsequent shudder giving away the statement is nothing more than performative stubbornness. With another soft sigh he gives in, even allows himself to lean against Jayce's chest somewhat, soaking in more of his damnable warmth and easing the burden on his bad leg. Better rest now then be cramped up when they can run for it, right? It sounds like a weak excuse for wanting to stay close even in his own mind.

"Every page?" he asks, glad for something to focus on as his brow quirks. It's a joke but somehow he wouldn't be surprised at all to hear Jayce say yes. "You're absurd, as is your natural body temperature. We will not even need a space heater in the lab come winter."

Ha thank you! They take me awhile to finish but I usually am happy with the results.

[hextechhead]

Jayce is affectionate, he's always been, but there is something about Viktor that makes him want to close space more often. It could be that he can sense how rare it is for his friend, that he isn't used to it but he's allowing it, so maybe the answer is to give him more until he is used to it. Sure, that's a good excuse reason. He likes being the steady port in a storm, someone Viktor can lean on so he isn't alone all the time. Jayce was lucky; he had a loving mother, he had Caitlyn and her family (who were mostly good to him). He had Heimerdinger who tolerated him much more than he probably should have. If he can give Viktor even a little of what their love gave him, it's worth it.

"Indulge me," Jayce replies with a little note of pleading in it. Then it's on his shoulders, that he wants this from Viktor, so if he gives in it's not his weakness but Jayce's indulgence. See, he knows how to make all of this work, although he's not very subtle about it. Or anything. Viktor gives in so he must be cold, shivering, and Jayce keeps his arms around him, running one up and down his back gently. Almost to fabricate heat through friction, although their clothes are wet so it doesn't do much. It's more a soothing gesture his mother would have made.

He smiles. "Someone hasn't been looking at my notebook." To be fair, they put a lot of their joint work together on blackboards or in joint books, but Jayce still keeps his own privately. It has sketches on it and ideas that have yet to go anywhere. "Don't worry, it's only on the things we're doing together." Which is, you know, everything these days.

Viktor is so slender, Jayce could easily pick him up and carry him the whole way back if he wanted to. Not that he ever would, unless there were broken bones and a disaster involved. "What, are you planning on using me as your space heater?" The joke is out of his mouth before he can think of to take it back, and it is on the edge of flirtatious.

honestly the show is made for vids like that too, especially these two nerds and all the looks

[mehanizovati]

The rain is what makes it worse, his clothes already damp just from the short time they were caught under the downpour and making every wind that much worse. Sheltered against Jayce the stray gusts don't quite hit their mark, because of course along with being a living furnace Jayce is broad and tall and perfect in a way that's nearly storybook. Viktor rolls his eyes, at himself and Jayce's obvious attempts to ease through his stubbornness. Better than letting his mind wander to how dreadfully comfortable this is despite the situation.

"So everything then. What don't we do together?" Viktor says, brow quirked and glancing up at Jayce. His expression softens slightly, always a little fight over his features, still getting used to vulnerability and sincerity with someone in Piltover. "I did not expect you to be so open to collaboration and sharing your work when we met. It is ah... it is good of you."

There, he feels endlessly awkward but it is likely important to let his appreciation of the effort be known, yes? For Jayce, who was always so genuine with such things and Viktor was slowly beginning to realize it truly wasn't for show when he said things like 'our dream.'

Of course then he says that and Viktor's eyes go to him, a touch surprised, a touch assessing. He feels oddly nervous as he hums, glancing to the rain. "Well, you are as they say... touchy-feely, hm? I may as well get the added benefit of heat regulation from it. It is only sensible."

[hextechhead]

"Alright, everything." He would put initials only but he doesn't know if Viktor has a last name or what it is. Jayce may be self-absorbed at times but he believes strongly in giving credit where it's due, just like he refuses to give credit where it isn't due. "Don't worry, it's my handwriting, no one will think you egotistical." He's teasing since that is what Viktor accused him of that first night, and it's a fond memory now, what could have been the last night of his life being something amazing instead.

"I never met someone I wanted to collaborate with. Or that I could, considering it was secret." Jayce gets along okay with other people at the academy, but he did have a streak of independence that set him apart, and he was working on things he couldn't share. No one thought the way he did, no one had that open-mindedness required to dream bigger than any of them knew. Except Viktor. "You fill in all my blanks, partner. It's good of you too." The equations he couldn't figure out, the type of thinking that his mind couldn't wrap around, but that is where Viktor excels. They perfectly mirror each other somehow.

Jayce will keep being genuine until Viktor gets used to it and worries less about being awkward. Their dream is going to change their entire world. He wants to make sure Viktor gets credit, even as he's certain people will try to look past him.

He laughs and looks down at him, not entirely unaware of how close they are to each other, especially when he's flirting. Jayce actually rarely flirts, it's not something he is naturally good at. It might seem like he is good with people, but it is mostly pretend. Actual connection is rare for him. "Touchy-feely, yeah. But you're not going to let me do this all the time, are you?"

[mehanizovati]

Viktor gives a soft, amused snort, a shake of the head. "Given your rising star they will likely be distracted by your signature. What is that term you said they started to use?" he asks, drawing out a hum as if he does not know before snapping. "Ah yes, golden boy." A new thing to tease Jayce over as it turns out.

Of course Jayce is so sincere again and Viktor clears his throat, no longer surprised by these moments but still damnably effected. 'You fill in my blanks,' he should be teasing him for that but it's true. "It is good of you to handle the investors, in truth. Selling the science is not my strong suit." To put it lightly.

Needless to say Viktor isn't great at flirting himself, though mostly because he is too blunt on a good day and rarely has any interest in romantic entanglement. People play flirt with friends, don't they? He doesn't have much of a frame of reference there. The fact he is thinking of Jayce and flirting is already a line he knows he shouldn't cross.

Then again that line is probably distant compared to being pressed close to him as the rain howls, exchanging soft jokes. "It would make getting any work done difficult," he murmurs. "... but occasionally would be acceptable."

[hextechhead]

Jayce rolls his eyes and flushes slightly, a little pink in his tan skin, although it cannot be seen well during the midst of a storm. "Not too long ago they thought me mentally disturbed, so opinions can change quickly." That is why he doesn't lose sight of the reality that everyone's doing it for their own reasons. And he's alright with that, as long as he gets to do his stuff. But he would be lying if he said he didn't feel pride when called the golden boy. The vindication of others isn't something he wants to care about, but he glows underneath it.

Luckily no matter how big his ego gets or people feed it, Viktor will always be good at leveling him out. He is sincere too, in a quieter way. Blunt, direct, honest, and Jayce likes not having to guess at his opinion. Although sometimes he does guess at what is going on in his head. His brilliant, always working head. "Whatever gets us our dream is going to be well worth it, for us and for everyone else." It has been our dream since the moment Viktor saved his life.

"So what you're saying is you like when I'm touchy-feely with you." See, curious about what goes on in his mind, but it also is reassuring. Viktor never pushed him off or anything, he allowed the affection, yet confirmation is still nice. And also, he is still flirting, like he cannot stop or even is not fully aware of it. Because that is dangerous, but he can't help it. He is a scientist. He likes poking at things he shouldn't.

"I wouldn't mind being your personal space-heater."

[mehanizovati]

"I am sure they think it a charming turn in the story, that they went from wanting you exiled to glorifying exactly what you told them you'd do to begin with," Viktor answers, dry but the faintest edge he sometimes gets when it comes to Piltover, the Council, all of it. He learned a long time ago to let go of his indignation if he was going to survive topside, from how easily they threw away food to the two faced social norms. The funny thing about becoming closer to someone was he maybe didn't always have to swallow it, especially when it came to how they treated Jayce.

'Our dream,' and again Viktor can't help a faint quirk of the lips. "You really are made for selling this," he muses, what with Jayce always so ready to easily say things like that, even in private. It will always be nice, how much Jayce believes in this. It makes Viktor feel like they really will change the world despite the opposition.

Viktor glances up, likely to where Jayce's hair was blown out of style by the rain and wind, still infuriatingly perfect even jostled. What are they doing, he wonders? Talking like this huddled under an awning, half gentle banter and half- well. He reaches up, brushes a stray bit of hair from Jayce's face with clinical precision, well aware it cannot be read as anything truly clinical.

"You're flirting," he points out, the hell with it, as if he isn't flirting back. "Hm, I always imagined your type of flirting would be more... what is the word. Showy. Winks and what not." It's calculated, the perfect chance for Jayce to laugh awkwardly and feign ignorance. "Bad pickup lines maybe. It's far more subtle, I applaud you."

[hextechhead]

"A charming turn that they are responsible for, yeah. For being so open-minded to accept it was true after given proof." See Jayce does know how these things work, he's been close enough to see it happen, and he can be sarcastic and joke about it now, but it doesn't actually keep him away from the work. While he wants them to get the credit and attention they deserve, it really only matters if it keeps their project going. Whatever story the Council wants to tell itself about how Hextech happened, it's fine, because they are giving them money and support. Someday the two of them and their work will be bigger than the Council, so they only need them for now, in his opinion.

"It's easy to sell something you believe in." And Jayce does believe. He's always believed. He saw it for himself and then he - they - made it happen. He thinks that he survived for a reason. He lost sight of that and then Viktor was there to save him, give him something to keep holding onto. Is it any wonder he's clung to this man and their partnership with both hands since? Only together can this work.

Despite Viktor allowing his affection, he rarely reaches out himself to do anything, so Jayce is genuinely surprised when he reaches up to touch his hair. He never knows what to expect from Viktor and him directly addressing their flirting is also a surprise. Jayce laughs and shakes his head. "No. I mean, I am flirting, no to the way I flirt. I'm more ... reactive than showy. And awkward." Meaning people tend to hit on Jayce, not the other way around. It's not that he never does, it is just that he tends to get intensely hyper-focused on his work and has for a long time. It seems contrary to his more outgoing personality, but he is oblivious to hints and interest. Besides. There is nothing wrong with being seduced.

He lifts a hand to run through Viktor's wet strands, his other arm still firmly around him. "I guess it's not a surprise that I'm better with you than anyone else, huh?"

[mehanizovati]

Viktor isn't so sure it's always an easy sell, though he imagines someone with a natural charisma like Jayce would be prone to feeling that way. There's a conversation there, he thinks, about belief and how far it can take them against all that wants to stand in their way. Viktor is used to clawing his way up, and more the fool he is that Jayce's enthusiasm often makes him think they've passed the worst of their trials.

All of that is infinitely less important to him right now than this, Jayce saying yes and still keeping him close. He can't help his eyes fluttering shut when Jayce runs a hand through his hair, on the messy side on a good day but even worse with the rain. "Ah, so you're used to being pursued rather than the opposite. I do not find that particularly surprising."

A pause and he regards Jayce again, the same sort of look he gives their equations, a little furrow in his brow. "It still surprises me that you are," he admits. "You're getting my hopes up, Jayce. Now would be the time for second thoughts."

[hextechhead]

Jayce has no real precision or finesse, he is more of a hammer. A charismatic highly energized hammer who can see a way through by pushing it. He does think they can do anything now, any hiccups they have are just that. It's this sort of optimistic arrogance that will bite him hard whenever things go the wrong way or he ends up having to make potentially destructive choices. Viktor is much wiser than he is. Level-headed. Rational. Another way in which they fill each other's blanks.

He knows they are caught in an important moment, full of uncertain tension, and Viktor's eyes opening up again only make it easier for him to fall into the gold gaze. Jayce cups his cheek, caressing his angular cheekbone. Jayce is the one pursued because he is appealing to people with his looks and passion, but he never notices unless the other person makes it clear. And while Viktor isn't hitting on him, he might as well be. There is no mistaking what he means.

This isn't the first time he thought about this. Jayce stopped counting. It is difficult not to look at Viktor and be lost in all the things he likes about him. He adores him. His heart is pounding in his chest and he smiles. "Hopes up, huh? And what are you hoping for?" Jayce can't help flirting even now, very rare for him as he just said, but it's Viktor. He is not so mean though and he leans down, brushing their noses together.

"No second thoughts," he murmurs and closes the minimal space to kiss him gently.

[mehanizovati]

The wind shifts again and Viktor barely feels it, braced as he is against Jayce. In a distracted way he thinks of the immediate future, that Jayce is going to end up with a cold if he soaks himself through acting as Viktor's makeshift umbrella and furnace. That Jayce hasn't even bat an eye at it yet, stubborn as he is to help where he can. That anyone else would at least expect something in his experience, but Jayce doesn't, not even to be admired for his actions, like he really is just happy to be here, huddled in the rain under an awning.

Jayce cups his cheek and Viktor feels his hopes traitorously raise. Jayce asks about that hope and Viktor can't help a soft snort, reaching up tentatively to curl his fingers around Jayce's wrist. He can't even consider formulating an answer because this close Viktor can see the little scar Jayce got from the broken window in Heimerdinger's office, or the slight, irritatingly charming gap in his teeth, or how sincere his smile is.

Even that flies out the window when Jayce's lips brush against his, an electric jolt of shock that freezes Viktor in place before he releases Jayce's wrist to cup his jaw and return the favor. Just as gently, not hesitant but careful, as though it's a precious moment to be catalogued properly rather than lost in a rush of nerves and instinct.

"Ah, I suppose I was hoping for that," Viktor mutters as they part, accent a little thicker this low and distracted. A brief moment and he is the one who moves to kiss Jayce again, the soft sigh as they part lost to a low rumble of thunder. He curses under his breath in his first language and says, "As tempting as it is to continue this particular experiment immediately we... should get you inside. You are going to catch your death, and I will be forced to buy an actual space heater."

[hextechhead]

Jayce is happy to be there huddled under an awning, especially if it led to their first kiss. He is having the same concerns about Viktor though, if it continues even his heat won't be enough. The only surefire way of keeping them both healthy is to get out of the rain and dry. Even if it is a scramble to get there. He is a little more focused on this moment first though, for the obvious reasons. The rain is still coming down, loudly, but nothing is louder than the sound of his own heart beating quickly, from his perspective. And all he feels right then is the press of Viktor's lips against his, the smell of him mixed with that of the rain, and the streets.

He never did this before because it never seemed like the right moment and they were focused on work when they were together, so if nothing else, he is thankful for the storm to slow them down long enough to be caught in a compromising position long enough to walk over the edge. "God I love your accent," Jayce murmurs back, it sounds very thick like this and a rare low rumble. It's the truth. Viktor has such a precise and unique way of speaking, some of it to do with his accent, some of it just being the way he chooses words and communicates.

He wonders how beautiful other things might sound in that accent. Jayce leans into the second kiss, fully intending on ignoring the weather entirely to continue it, but Viktor is wiser than he is. He sighs because of course he's right, although he's far less likely to catch a cold than Viktor is. "Okay but two things first." Jayce slicks Viktor's hair back out of his face. "One, how slippery will it be with your cane? Will you lean on me?" He knows Viktor can be proud sometimes but they can't exactly get to safety if he'll slip and fall.

And as a follow up. "Two, you're not going to change your mind once we get inside, are you? Because I might take my chances with the weather." That is definitely a joke. Mostly.

[mehanizovati]

Viktor's lips quirk, the warmth in his expression going a touch sly as an idea strikes him. "Do you, солнце? I will have to keep that in mind." He usually kept his native tongue to himself, jotted in offhanded notes or curses under his breath. Certainly never used in little endearments, and maybe if Jayce understood he'd find it more difficult.

Still it is an appropriate one. Jayce very much is the sun, if Viktor allows himself the embarrassing sentimentality of it. Warm, bright, golden.

"Eh, it depends on the surfaces," Viktor answers. Typically these sort of questions bring up a quick, defensive annoyance in him but Jayce asks instead of assumes- that and he isn't necessarily against leaning on him, for the proximity. "The sidewalks should be fine, any dirt that gets softened will be troublesome. I suspect it will be a nonissue but I also suspect you may just wish to have me lean against you."

His tone is teasing in his dry way. He taps Jayce's arm until he can slot properly into place at his side, as concise as putting together their prototypes. Jayce's joke has him glancing up though, thoughtful before hesitantly taking Jayce's hand instead of simply leaning against him. "I have concerns about how this could be damaging to our work relationship, yes. Even so you should know by now I am not one who shies from taking risks. My mind will not change."

Jayce was a risk worth taking before and remains that, as dangerous as it all could be. Life is too short, as they say.

[hextechhead]

Jayce's eyebrows go up at that and it's not visible in the dark but his cheeks flush a little at the endearment. He doesn't understand but he already knows that he likes it, and Viktor's never given him one before. He beams a smile at him like the golden sun in question. "Uh yeah, please call me that frequently, whatever it means." Viktor doesn't usually talk in his native tongue directly, it's usually under his breath or when he's deep in thought. He could definitely stand to hear more of it.

Honestly when Viktor slides into his side, he feels like he belongs there. And that is more or less true and always has been, they fit together, but Jayce is a sentimental man and he can't help but feel like one more example of their perfect compatibility is only assuring him this is the right path. He knows Viktor doesn't like attention being brought to his leg but he also knows Jayce never means it in a condescending way, he is genuinely helpful.

His fingers intertwine with Viktor's and he squeezes their joined hands. He's always loved Viktor's fingers, long and graceful. Jayce's are thicker and lack the precision his partner has when they work, an obvious hammer over a careful tool. "We'll figure out the details and make it work, we're good at that." Jayce is really not as concerned. Maybe he should be, but he so frequently lets his heart guide him. He slicks Viktor's hair back with his free hand and kisses his forehead affectionately.

"You set the pace, not me." It could mean their walking or their relationship, but it actually means both. Jayce already said he tends to let the other person lead. He glances at the sky and winces. "Okay, on three we move."

[mehanizovati]

"You are clever, I am sure you can find out what it means," Viktor muses, resisting the urge to duck his head away when Jayce smiles. He knew better before than to stare, which Jayce made every difficult at every turn. Especially when he smiled, the absolute fiend. Now he supposes their cards are on the table, and it doesn't hurt for his eyes to linger, that sunny warmth thawing his sharp edges all the more before he finally does glance away.

It's made all the worse when Jayce goes and kisses his forehead, Viktor leaning into it all despite himself, resisting the urge to kiss the man again. Maybe they should have just stayed under the awning, privacy be damned.

No, he knows if they were seen it would be far more trouble for Jayce than for him, and they do need to discuss that properly before stirring the social pot. He has no doubt Jayce would be immediately offended at the idea of having to be careful not to be seen fraternizing with Viktor this way. Viktor could admit it was refreshing sometimes, to have someone who didn't politely ignore the little slights sent Viktor's way. Who wanted to defend him, as unnecessary and ultimately harmful as it could be for either of them.

"Very well. Three, two-" With 'one' Viktor starts them into the rain. It hasn't let up in the slightest, making his bangs drip down his forehead and the side farthest from Jayce warmth begin to soak with the wet cold. He pushes himself despite knowing he'll pay for it later, more interested in kissing his damned partner again than anything else. Getting dry and warm is a close contender.

His own apartment is close enough he pushes them in that direction. Frankly he'd just live at the academy if he could, an option Heimendinger tutted over and refused to allow for the sake of Viktor's work/life balance. All it really meant was Viktor found ways to crash in the lab rather than deal with the commute or, horror of horrors, leaving at a reasonable time when he was deep into his work.

At least in this case it works in his favor. "My apartment is in that building," he calls to Jayce, raising his voice a little over the wind as he gestures to it with a nod. "I do not usually take boys home on the first date."

[hextechhead]

"Or I'll just decide for myself what it means. Handsome? Sexy? Genius?" Sometimes Jayce is genuinely egotistical and sometimes he is playing up his ego for fun, and if it amuses Viktor, it's worth it. He would absolutely be offended at the mere suggestion of people judging their pairing, specifically because of Viktor. Judging because they work together, a little more reasonable, but sometimes Jayce is always on the edge of starting a fight when people slight his partner. It is why he aggressively insists on Viktor getting as much credit as he does, even as people still only pay attention to him. But he tries. Stubbornly.

Viktor saved his life and he is the smartest person he knows, probably the smartest person in this whole city if you ask Jayce. He is a little biased, but only because he's spent so much time with his partner. No one else will defend him, and Viktor normally ignores it, so Jayce is ready to fight over it. He's an emotional and passionate person, sometimes to his detriment, but occasionally to his benefit.

He doesn't like the idea of Viktor going out into the cold rain but they really have no choice, it's not letting up. Jayce follows him as close as he can and it doesn't occur to him to go anywhere but back to the academy. After they proved their experiment, Jayce was given new quarters instead of having to live on the outside. He knew that Viktor didn't live there in a vague sort of way, but they were always in the lab together.

Jayce is still holding Viktor's hand as he looks at the apartment, the cold now officially getting to even him, soaked but doing alright. He walks them up to the building and turns to look at Viktor, smiling at him. "I thought our first date involved creating a Hextech portal." Jayce cannot resist leaning in and stealing another kiss from Viktor, although they're both cold as are their lips. Whatever, a cold kiss from Viktor is better than a warm one from anyone else.

"Boys, huh? Anyone I should be jealous of?"

[mehanizovati]

Viktor exhales like a laugh, leans in a little to say, "No, that would be красивый, сексапильный, гений." He makes sure his voice goes a little low for it, lets the language roughen the sound. He thinks this is likely a little mean but he cannot help it, not when Jayce's fluster is so endearing. He likes doing it, likes offering a place where Jayce doesn't have to put on any airs.

Getting into the building is a blessed relief, dripping on the tile as he leads them further in. First floor, the less stairs the better, and when they stop at his door he's the one who steals a kiss, grasping Jayce's chin before untangling enough to grab his keys. "Ah, I suppose breaking into Heimerdinger's office could count as a couple's activity. In that case I am overdue in bringing you home."

He unlocks the door, taking Jayce's hand again under the guise of pulling him in. It's a small place, a single room for a kitchen, living and dining area, two doors that likely lead to the bedroom and a bathroom. He could afford bigger but frankly he found this far more comfortable and familiar, on top of the fact he had little use for the place besides sleeping and minimal storage.

Speaking of there isn't much in the way of decoration, the table and couch covered in books and articles, a great many of them what he could find on magic that wasn't censored. There are a few books on forges and metalwork, ones he picked up thanks to Jayce, rather fascinated by the process once he had properly heard Jayce talk about it, seen his family forge himself. It helped to keep up with the conversation and not make Jayce backtrack if he got ahead of himself in the details of that particular line of discussion.

The only items that stick out are at a small desk crammed in the corner. A metal boat, a banged up box of tools that look so makeshift and worn they couldn't be of much use compared to any of the equipment the academy offered, and finally a cog with a string through the middle, hanging off the desk lamp. The same cog Jayce had pushed towards him when they floated in the air, that passed through the stabilized crystal like proof they had done what seemed impossible.

"I should be asking you that," Viktor points out, scurrying off reluctantly but coming back with a towel that he throws over Jayce's head. He shifts it to reveal Jayce's face, leans in for another kiss, using the towel to pull Jayce down to do so. He really could get used to this. "But no. Your ego may enjoy knowing I have never bothered with 'other boys,' at least not romantically. I never met anyone both smart enough to keep up and with... vision. Real vision and passion. Only you."

[hextechhead]

Jayce puts those words into his memory for another time. His accent will no doubt be horrible if he tries to use them himself, but that won't stop him from learning. He'd like to learn Viktor's language if he's open to it. He's never asked before because Viktor is a private person and there are many things he'd like to know but has held back from asking. Maybe now with an even deeper level of intimacy, he can get around to those questions. He's much more of an open book in comparison. It takes almost nothing to get Jayce to open up.

He could really get used to sneaking kisses from Viktor, in fact he is very interested in becoming an expert at it. Once inside the apartment he curiously looks around, knowing that he's dripping on the floor and his clothes are hugging him in the process. Jayce tilts his head at the boat, the details, his eyes latching onto the cog. It should be a strange random detail, except he suspects right away what it is. And that it would be surprisingly very sentimental of Viktor, which of course warms his big heart.

He is pulled out of his thoughts by Viktor coming back and tossing a towel over his head. And uses that to pull him down into another kiss which he could really get used to too. Jayce is learning all kinds of new little things. He puts his hands on Viktor's hips to pull him closer, wrapping them around his back instead once he is.

"Only me. I like that." Despite being cold and wet it isn't that difficult to feel his temperature rising, the natural heat of his tan skin coming back now that they're inside. Jayce smiles and he's glad they didn't get here and Viktor changed his mind, like he low key was worried about until now. He'd said it as a joke, but it wasn't. His partner is much more logical than he is, and this does cause some complications, but Jayce will always throw his whole heart into something or in this case, someone. He's not sure if he is a jealous person, but he likes that confirmation anyway.

"I think you think I'm more popular than I am." As to the asking him that part. Jayce is handsome and charming and he knows that, egotistical a little sure, but he isn't blind. But he's also intense and easily distracted and would rather talk for hours about science than try and actually date someone. Apparently being too much of an academic can be a turn off even for other students! "I've dated a few times, but nothing serious." Men, women, whoever takes his interest, but like he said before, usually they have to be the aggressor to get his attention. Viktor is different in most ways.

"And once you came into the picture," Jayce's hand reaches up to cup his cheek, "who could ever compete?" Viktor's brain and his beauty are unparalleled. It would be pointless to try.

[mehanizovati]

"Hm, I thought you would," Viktor muses, resisting the urge to just get back to where they left off at the awning to instead rub Jayce's hair with the towel. When he lets it drop to Jayce's shoulders he reaches up to run a hand through Jayce's mussed hair, deeply fond.

He can't say he's surprised Jayce hasn't dated a great deal- Jayce is often singleminded in his work, a trait Viktor finds appealing but is well aware most find irritating when left ignored for too long. Their loss, as far as he's concerned.

What he can be a little surprised about is Jayce saying something that sentimental and sweet without batting an eye. It shouldn't be surprising given it is Jayce but Viktor can't help a soft snort. "You are absurd," he tells him, off set by pulling him closer, a kiss he ends with keeping their foreheads close, enjoying the warmth and moment like it might be fleeting.

When he pulls back it's with a little frown and a click of his tongue. "Ah, I have nothing for you to change into." A problem, given the state of their clothes and Jayce likely taking the brunt of it. He brushes his hands over Jayce's shoulders with a sigh. "Eh, a sheet will have to do. I will not have you finally kissing me then catching your death."

[hextechhead]

Jayce is the one who makes physical gestures all the time, and he is delighted that now the dam is broken between them, it's Viktor who seems to have no qualms about touching him. He leans his head into Viktor's hand when it runs through his hair, loving the feeling of it. He's been with enough people that he feels pretty comfortable with this level of intimacy, but not so much that it isn't exciting and new. It would be that anyway because it is with Viktor. Everything they're doing is telling him a new story about his partner.

He can't stop touching him, every kiss making him feel a little closer to drowning, a hand running along his back, not caring about them being wet at the moment. Jayce chuckles and presses his mouth against Viktor's cheek, lowering his head down to kiss the curve of his long neck. "What, you don't have anything in my size?" It's a tease since frankly very few people are his size. Jayce is tall and broad and while he finds Viktor unbearably attractive, he could never get into one of his shirts or pants. His partner is skinny as a rail. He puts the towel around his neck instead, for now.

"A sheet is fine." He steps back, unhappy about the space between them, but decides there's no reason to keep his clammy wet clothes on. Jayce pulls his tie off, shrugging out of his vest, undoing his shirt with maybe a little too much eye contact. His cheeks flush, it's suggestive but he doesn't know how to do this in a situation like theirs without being suggestive. When he finally peels off his shirt he reaches out to take his towel back.

Jayce is from a family of people who work with their hands. He creates the physical parts of their projects himself, most of the time, spending time in the forge when he doesn't really need to. But he likes being a part of all parts of their work. It's a good work out and sometimes he likes being distracted by the physicality. Despite being well aware some people find him attractive like this, that doesn't mean Viktor will, so there is a tiny bit of nerves curling into his stomach.

[mehanizovati]

"I have never in my life owned something your size," Viktor drawls with a shake of the head. "Your shoulder width alone should be criminal."

Not that he's complaining, certainly not now when Jayce pulls back and starts revealing those shoulders. He should turn politely away but Jayce is meeting his eyes and yes, maybe he's allowed this. He's seen Jayce in the forge before, he can't even pretend he didn't secretly enjoy the view then as discreetly as he could manage.

It's not something he's particularly used to. Viktor's always been able to appreciate beauty but he rarely finds himself engulfed by it, struck dumb or quiet. He remembers at Jayce's trial he considered Jayce's pretty face before those thoughts were completely overrun by Jayce's words, his vision and research goals. When they became partners officially he tried to ignore those thoughts entirely.

The tips of Viktor's ears go pink as he allows himself to look Jayce over, clears his throat and hands the towel back. The fact Jayce works with his hands, works in a real way just makes it all more appealing, damn him. It makes him feel real and solid, dangerously enticing amid all the posturing of Piltover.

"You-" Viktor starts, leaning in again to put a palm against Jayce's chest, his heart, still a furnace despite the chill he's really starting to feel himself. "-are going to be the death of me. You can go use the shower, I'll bring you a sheet."

[hextechhead]

Jayce has already admitted to being pretty oblivious to attention, and if he thought Viktor looked at him at any point with attraction, he would have made a move before. His partner is very discrete and difficult to read, but he knows him well now, and he can see it in his eyes, the tip of his ears. And yes, that definitely does puff up his ego, grinning ear-to-ear at the attention. Viktor's attraction is special, he knows it's rarer.

Jayce works for everything he has, he was taught that from his family upbringing, they've always been physical people. He knew how to handle tools, hammers, forges, from childhood. His father used to prefer to make everything by hand himself that he used too, and it crossed over to their work now.

Viktor's hand on his chest feels very real though, in the best possible sense, and he steps in close, his hand moving over Viktor's on his chest. His heart is beating a little faster, just an extra beat or two. "I like having your undivided attention." It's rare! Viktor is even more focused on their work than he is, and he likes watching him when he's distracted. The intense look in his eyes, the expression he makes when he figures something out.

"Fine, I'll be good, but let me have this first." He means being good because he'll go take the shower instead of enticing Viktor to come with him. First though Jayce kisses him again, slow and deep, like they have all the time in the world. And it feels like they do right now, they at least can have a little time all to themselves, before they have to worry about everything else again.

Jayce pulls back before they really get too distracted. He nuzzles his nose. "You have no idea how many times I've thought about your lips."

[mehanizovati]

Viktor's lips quirk despite himself when he swears he can feel Jayce's heart pick up under his fingers, as though he isn't the one making such a picture in Viktor's apartment. "Eh, you have had it more than you think, солнце." Likely since Jayce's trial, the first time he had Viktor's full attention when the words 'magic' passed his lips.

This does not feel very much like Jayce being good, if only because Viktor is seriously considering saying hell to the tiny size of his shower and joining him. Funnily enough the little nuzzle is what nearly does him in, a soft exhale like a laugh before he leans in for another, longer kiss himself, fingers curling against Jayce's chest.

A shiver down his spine from the actual cold is what finally convinces him to pull back, hand moving to cup Jayce's jaw as he does so, thumb at his bottom lip. "You can tell me all about it when you're done. Go on, if we catch our deaths because you are too alluring I will be incredibly cross with you. There's too much work to be done for that."

He fully steps back, fingers lingering before he gestures to the bathroom door. It's a tiny thing, the shower barely enough room for Jayce in all likelihood, which Viktor never regretted before tonight. He goes to his own room and leaves the door open, just a full bed and a squat dresser, less clutter than outside.

It's a relief to tug off his vest and shirt, one side mostly dry thanks to Jayce, his fingers running over that area of fabric thoughtfully as he sits on his bed. It's a learning experience to rely on someone even in such simple matters, one he doesn't think he's been handling particularly gracefully and yet Jayce has taken it in stride. He supposes that shouldn't surprise him, Jayce is stubborn in a way Viktor admires and understands, though he'll admit he didn't think it would extend to the personal aspects of their partnership.

Which now very much seems like it might be a partnership in more than research. Despite knowing there's a great deal of logistics to consider, dangers and pitfalls to avoid, he allows himself a moment to smile and indulge in the fluttering in his chest. Frightening, truly, since good things tend to be snatched away quickly in the undercity and he's learned not to get too attached to anything unless he could not live without it. It's becoming alarmingly clear Jayce is becoming just that.

He takes off his shoes and considers trying to unlatch his back brace before settling on waiting for Jayce to help. It's not the one he'll design and craft in the future, far bulkier than what he has now that is mostly leather and minimal metal. Still he made it himself and he's rather proud of the design- and isn't it novel to have someone who may appreciate the workmanship too rather than be alarmed at his need for it?

He realizes he's still smiling like a fool and shakes his head. Absolutely absurd.

[hextechhead]

"But," he whines when Viktor shoos him off, since he is very keyed into the moment, but he immediately gives in regardless because he is cold and it's for the best. "Fine, fine." He kisses the thumb against his lip and goes to the shower. It is small, definitely, unfortunate since he too would like to imagine them enjoying one together, but his is probably large enough. They can think about that another day. Jayce is broad so most small bathrooms become complicated.

But he doesn't plan on lingering in the shower anyway, not when he has Viktor waiting for him out there. It's just to warm himself up so he lets the water go pretty hot to make it faster. Jayce doesn't really have to think about the complications too much; he goes by his heart. Yes, there are a lot of things they have to think about, boundaries to make in their work place, learning together what a work/home balance might be, and it's all something he's interested in pursuing.

He doesn't exactly have a lot of experience, he's dated, been with men or women occasionally, but nothing serious. So he should be nervous, but he isn't. Because it's Viktor. It's him and Viktor. The two of them have been on the same wavelength from the start and what they've accomplished is impossible. Maybe this is risking what they have, but it won't stop him. Not for a second. Nothing will.

It is quick before he's out of the shower with the towel tied around his waist. Even that is larger, he has a big frame, so it doesn't cover him as much as it would Viktor. Oh well. It's enough. He leaves the rest of his wet clothes over to where his shirt is so they are a pile for now, and walks into the bedroom. Jayce's gaze goes straight for Viktor; he may have no doubts about what is happening between them, but for a moment, he wonders if Viktor might. If the short amount of time could unravel his logical concerns. But he's shirtless so Jayce figures he's still on good ground.

Viktor is so slim but Jayce lowkey likes the fact he could probably lift him one-handed, as long as he's feeling healthy. His eyes travel to the brace; he knows Viktor has them, and has seen it, just as they've seen each other shirtless before too. It's different this time. He crosses the room and runs his fingers through Viktor's hair, towering over him unintentionally since he's tall and Viktor's sitting.

"Hi." It's almost, almost, a little shy. "You should go next, if you need to warm up." Or. Jayce is an excellent source of heat.

[mehanizovati]

Ah. Well, turning his head to see Jayce in only a towel that does very little for the imagination- needless to say it takes Viktor a moment to process that. Then another moment to appreciate it. It is a sight he could very quickly get used to, more so now that he doesn't need to feel any sort of conflict about it. In all fairness Jayce going shirtless in his forge is simply unfair and he doesn't think the man has any real idea how he affects people sometimes.

Viktor leans into the hand in his hair without thinking, lips quirking in a crooked but sincere little smile at that shy tone. "You are incredibly lovely, Jayce Talis," he informs, using his cane to push himself to his feet before gesturing to his back. "Help me with this, will you? Just unlatch to the side there."

He can do it himself easily enough but it is nice not to twist around and irritate his already complaining back with it. "And then I will shower and we can return to our earlier discussion." Which is kissing, mostly. That's what he'd prefer to return to, even if maybe there are some matters to be addressed. If Jayce is going to be lounging about his room in a towel he really doesn't think anyone would blame him for distraction from such matters.

[hextechhead]

Jayce knows he's traditionally handsome. He's been told so a few times and he has a mirror, but it also isn't something he thinks about much. He definitely would not have noticed Viktor's appreciation of him in the forge or any other time. Maybe if he looked for it, but to him, his partner has always seemed immune to others that way. Now that he knows Viktor likes what he sees, he wants to preen underneath the attention. He is thankful to be 'incredibly lovely' if it gets Viktor to look at him like that.

He smiles brightly, almost glowing under that kind of appreciation, a little flush to his cheeks too. "And you are the most attractive person I've ever met." He would echo the lovely as a sentiment, but that would be copying. Jayce means attractive on multiple levels. His mind, his snark, his heart, and his sharp and unique features. Eyes so beautiful they could never have an equal. Jayce is lost in them now, gazing down at him.

His hands move easily though without having to look, unlatching the brace and then his big hands slide over Viktor's skin, one at the base of his back and the other sliding up his spine and down again. Jayce pulls him closer, brushing a kiss to his forehead. He does feel really cold underneath his warm hands, sighing as he wants nothing more than to kiss Viktor until their lips are chapped. "As much as I don't want to wait any more time before we're kissing, I don't want you getting sick."

Viktor is frail enough as it is, something they both know, although Jayce is careful not to say out loud out of respect. He knows his love is very strong of spirit and heart and that matters more than muscles. Jayce can have the muscles enough for both of them. "But I'll be here waiting on your bed, so." He smiles and kisses Viktor's cheek. "Hurry up."

[mehanizovati]

"Flattery," Viktor answers in amusement, turning to cup Jayce's face and thumb at the light blush on his cheeks. The ability to do so on a whim still feels so novel, a right he is still reminding himself he has.

He lets out a soft sigh of relief as the brace loosens - it's comfortable enough but it irritates after a long day, and Jayce's warm palms against his skin are heavenly. If he thought he could get away with it he'd probably try and convince Jayce to simply warm him up like this, his personal heater as promised. So instead he places his brace to the side and tugs Jayce down into a kiss, hand pressed against his chest before finally pushing himself off.

"Yes, yes," he concedes, heading into the bathroom. The shower is a quick one and much needed just to warm him up, get his hair into something resembling control. Even here he can hear the rain crashing outside, low thunder and the strained whistling of high winds as he dabs at himself with a towel, one that covers him much better than it does Jayce when he wraps it around his hips and returns.

Viktor certainly looks a little better for it now, the chill gone and skin faintly pink with warmth as he pushes his wet hair back when it flops in his face. "Bah, I thought the rain would be less annoying up here but it is just as disruptive." Then again it got Jayce in his bed like this so maybe he can forgive it.

[hextechhead]

With how bad the storm is howling it is definitely smart they rushed back instead of assuming it would pass. Jayce would be happy to continue to be his personal heater, but that cold clamminess really did need a shower to really thoroughly wipe it off. The taste of Viktor's mouth stays with him after he leaves and he sighs happily, watching him go, amazed at the turn of events. He thinks they would have gotten here eventually regardless, the bond between them is so strong even without their attraction, but it feels right for it to happen like this. A little off the cuff, not planned or prepared for.

He settles onto Viktor's bed, considering whether or not to surprise him with no towel at all, but decides better to take this carefully. It's a little too suggestive right off the bat even though they will have very little to hide their bodies soon. Maybe Jayce is more nervous than he thought, not out of uncertainty about this, but in general. Viktor's good opinion of him is of high importance.

He does temporarily take the towel off to try and dry his hair, or at least stop it from dripping on the bed, but it's securely back around him by the time Viktor comes out. Gold-brown eyes stare at the door, waiting, and they brighten when Viktor returns, more life in his cheeks and he wants to trail fingers over his slim build, find where other moles are on him.

"I love the rain, it got me here." Echoing that sentiment out loud because he speaks from the heart. Jayce crooks a finger at Viktor playfully, encouraging him to come closer. "We're still on the same page, right? That this is a great thing we both want."

[mehanizovati]

Viktor is also wondering how bold he should be- he could excuse himself to slip into pajamas, which seems a little unfair given Jayce does not have the same luxury. He could drop his towel and just change here, a touch risque but frankly not all that appealing in practice, too much bending and stepping his back and leg won't thank him for unless he does it carefully and slowly. So a towel then, and he watches Jayce for a few moments, lips curling despite himself at that easy joy in where they've ended up.

It makes it easy to step over, enjoying the rare view of looking down at Jayce for once, head tilted as he puts his cane to the side to rest against his night table and rests a hand on Jayce's shoulder to steady himself in its place. "We are," he says, tone almost gentle as he sinks down to sit next to Jayce. "But we do need to discuss some matters.

"The first is obvious enough, Hextech always comes first. I doubt either of us will risk it on a falling out or romantic drama," he says, waving a hand like the idea is ridiculous. He is very confident in that, they both care far too much about the work to let petty matters get in the way. The next part he pauses to consider before offering carefully, "You should understand that this will not reflect well on you. It is one thing to work with me, it is another to be in a relationship with someone from the undercity when your eh... you star is on the rise, that is what they say, yes?"

[hextechhead]

Jayce kind of enjoys looking up at Viktor too. He has such angular features and impressive cheekbones and they look particularly sharp from this angle. In an attractive kind of way. He lets Viktor lean on him to sit down and sits up once he does, so close to him now. They've been this close before, usually because he does it when they work together, leans in, talks close to his ear, points out things on the chalkboard. Jayce has never had to be as touchy or as intimate as he is with Viktor, but he can't seem to stop.

"Hextech comes first. I can't guarantee I won't kiss you in the lab though. I'll just wait for when we're not busy." Jayce already knows he wants to kiss Viktor when they make big headway on their projects, and those are times they have to focus on their work. So he'll be smart about it and wait until they've gotten everything down and cleared their minds. And then he'll kiss him. He leans in to brush his lips against Viktor's cheek, on the mole near to his mouth.

Jayce runs his fingers through Viktor's hair when he says that and his attention gets sharp. He frowns, his fingers moving to Viktor's chin, tipping his head toward Jayce. "Look at me and understand how little I care about that. Less than zero. I don't care at all." This is the man who stood by him when everyone else abandoned him. They weren't even friends, but Viktor put himself at risk, and what they change will be together.

"You are worth a hundred of anyone else." He's an emotional person and it shows, he means what he says with all of his heart. "Next matter, it's just you and me, I don't want to share." Not that either of them have trotted out significant others to be jealous about, but it seems easy to bring it up now.

[mehanizovati]

"Mm, I find that acceptable," Viktor replies dryly- as though he ever thought he'd convince Jayce not to offer the odd kiss in the lab. The man was so physically affectionate it seemed impossible, and frankly he isn't complaining. If they do get that assistant they've been discussing they'll need to be more careful, but until then Viktor sees no way a little affection in the lab will be anything but an occasional, welcome distraction.

He expects Jayce to react strongly to his warning about public opinion, following the tilt of Jayce's fingers to regard him as requested, lips quirking fondly at his intense response. "I knew it wouldn't scare you away, but... you do need to be prepared to bite your tongue more than you'll no doubt like." He tilts his head as if realizing something, a curious hum as he says, "I suppose I will need to relearn as well. It is easy to brush off things said about me, should I hear anything about you it might be more difficult."

That aside Jayce brings up a decent point, gets a nod from Viktor. He considers for a brief moment before shifting carefully to his feet, getting up so he can sit on Jayce's lap and look down at him again, a faint smile on his face not unlike a pleased cat. "Neither do I, so we are in agreement. For that matter, while I have no interest in being particularly public about our business I do not wish to be a secret. I am... serious about this, Jayce, as I have said before. I want to tell people if asked or if I believe they should know."

Which is practically no one for him, really. His social circle is Jayce and Heimendinger for the most part, but it still matters to him that Jayce is not something to hide.

[hextechhead]

"I'm not going to let people say bad things about you," Jayce says with a frown. "I haven't before this and I won't after." It is possible they are saying it behind his back, but he's never allowed anyone to say it in front of him without a sharp response. So it's really no difference, sex wouldn't change that. He reminds people constantly about Viktor's importance and their equal situation. He can't force people to listen, but he will try all the same.

He's amused at the very ridiculous thought of him trying to hide them. "Did you miss the part where I said I wanted us to be monogamous and I don't care what people think of us?" Jayce is not used yet to Viktor openly giving him back this affection, even upping it by sliding into his lap, and he immediately puts broad arms around him, pliable and happy. He leans in to kiss Viktor's cheek and then down into the curve of his neck, brushing his lips against it. With Viktor a little higher than him it's easy for him to trail his mouth down to his shoulder, smiling into his skin.

"You'll be lucky if I don't shout it off a rooftop or declare it during a presentation." Jayce does have a tendency to be emotional and dramatic at times. His hand runs down the length of Viktor's spine, gently. "Anything else?" He moves to press a kiss to the other side of Viktor's neck.

[mehanizovati]

"There are times you may have to bite your tongue," Viktor points out, unable to keep a level of fondness from his expression. He isn't sure how to articulate he can see this being worse, that Jayce is being slowly built up to symbolize a Piltover ideal and 'shacking up with a trencher' is never going to be smiled upon there. All the politically savvy matches his patron has no doubt already been considering for him, all the families that will want to believe they have a chance - no, he simply cannot imagine they will be spared, even if Viktor keeps somewhat out of the public eye as he has been.

But he is in Jayce's lap and that is cause for some celebration and optimism. He runs a hand through Jayce's damp hair, down to the nape of his neck in slow exploration. He lets out a faint chuckle at Jayce's answer, tilting his neck to give Jayce access as he hums and considers what else there was. "Hm, important matters... I prefer to be- big spoon, yes? That is the term. If you do as well we will simply need to set a schedule."

A dry joke, but really he isn't sure what else can be said. At this point it will be a matter of handling what they've already mentioned as it comes, in hopes it will work out despite those who would happily see them fail. "You are a pushover though so I am sure I will win more often than not."

[hextechhead]

Jayce doesn't like the idea and it is highly likely he'll make a scene at some point. He's an emotional person and even promising that he'd try his best, he can get pushed the wrong way and react. He knows what people are starting to see in him, and he does like it, being validated and seen are things Jayce has wanted his entire life. But not at the expense of what matters, and being a good boyfriend is something he thinks matters. "I'll try if that's what you want." It is his best compromise. If Viktor doesn't want a scene, he's more likely to try and keep himself in check.

It's amazing to have Viktor's hands on him. Through his hair, on his neck, and Jayce is pleasantly warm over it. He is taking full advantage of Viktor exposing his neck and laughs into the crook of it. "Unsurprisingly, we fit together well, I like to be little spoon." They are such good balances to one another. Jayce likes being held; being as large as he is, most people assume he's the one to wrap someone up, and he will, he does. He likes snuggling. But he's been offered less the other option.

"I'm a pushover for you, yeah." Jayce can't even start to argue. There is no question which one of them runs things. He always gives in to Viktor and it makes him happy to. He grips Viktor's hips and moves abruptly, lifting him and turning them so he lays Viktor down on the bed. It's gentle and careful, not wanting to hurt him, but he follows soon to hover over him, not placing any of his weight down.

"What are you comfortable with us doing tonight?" He's trying to be respectful. It is technically their first time doing anything, and Jayce wants it to be perfect. "We can keep it to kissing, or we can get rid of the towels, or ... anything you want, Vik."

[mehanizovati]

"It is all part of Hextech coming first," Viktor answers with a little shrug, still playing idly with Jayce's hair. "Which unfortunately includes our reputation and playing nice with the sponsors. Maybe when we're successful enough I can finally smack one of those pompous fools upside the head and see how they like it."

Dry, though his gaze softens when Jayce says they fit well together. He leans in for a peck of a kiss, makes a little sound in his throat when Jayce moves them. That gets Jayce pulled down for a far deeper kiss that ends in a quiet sigh and a calculating look. Well, maybe more curious, like trying to map this new side of Jayce, what he is like in the bedroom, in romance.

"Hm, I suppose that leads to some other topics to discuss, does it not? But if you wish for a preference I would very much like to fuck you properly." Blunt, with a little quirk of the lips as he cups Jayce's jaw. "Is that considered 'too fast?' I cannot say I have a good understanding of the eh... common propriety here." Mostly of Piltover's propriety. Frankly he thinks Piltover is pretty prudish.

[hextechhead]

"Fine, I'll play nice, but if anyone outright insults you, no promises." Which is a fairly safe promise since Piltover people are very good at insulting people without directly doing it. They can make references or hints or suggestions, and it is all needling and annoying, but that passive aggression is more likely to happen with Jayce and Viktor. Jayce's star is going to rise regardless because their work is catching on, and while he thinks both of their stars should be, he'd be blind to not see how much it's his name being spoken and pushed and praised. Some types of changes can't happen overnight.

As long as Viktor knows that they are equals and that Jayce loves and respects him, that will have to do for now. Jayce closes the space between their bodies to press some of his weight down when Viktor drags him into a deeper kiss, immediately flushed and returning the kiss seriously.

Jayce goes from flushed to straight up blushing when Viktor says he wants to fuck him, swallowing and any doubt Viktor might have about Jayce's preference is expressed with him starting to harden right away. "Fuck, yes, please let's do that." His eagerness cannot be overstated. People tend to make assumptions about someone like Jayce from the outside of him being big and extroverted and bold. When it comes to sex, he really tends to go with whatever the other person prefers, he's very giving and open, and it's a relief when his partner knows what they want.

Jayce smiles at him and reaches down to throw the small towel off himself since that's been decided. There's a playful glint in his eyes as he kisses the corner of Viktor's mouth and then his neck, sliding his body down and stripping the towel off Viktor too. "Can I get my mouth on you first?" Said lips are trailing down his slim chest, his stomach, looking up at him for permission before going any farther. "Please, I've been going crazy thinking of kneeling in front of your chair when you're being brilliant."

[mehanizovati]

"Well, I do enjoy when you stand up to the pompous." Namely his trial, which is probably the moment Viktor really started to look at Jayce properly. Even if his research had ended up being nonsense Viktor would have appreciated the passion Jayce had for it, misplaced or not.

Viktor tries not to look too pleased by Jayce's eager response - needless to say he had issues before with what people expected of him based on his looks. He doesn't mind bottoming but a degree of control is his usual preference, and certainly not to be treated like something small and meek.

With Jayce's he's slowly been learning the difference of being treated gently or kindly because of care rather than misconception, and the vague thought of it brings a flush of fondness through him, leaning up to impart it with his lips to Jayce's jaw. It ends in a nip then thorough distraction as Jayce strips off his towel, an approving hum because gods above, Jayce is beautiful. Even more so when he asks so nicely to put his mouth to work, Viktor's hands carding through Jayce's hair as he answers.

"Please," he answers with a nod, shifting to sit up a little because he wants to see this. "You have no idea how often I've wanted to bend you over your desk, especially when you come back frustrated and tense from social obligations."

[hextechhead]

Jayce is usually assumed the other way and while he likes any option, he's very fluid on that matter, and he's rarely been offered this. Viktor bosses him around better than anyone else and having his partner take control over his body is a huge turn-on. Jayce likes losing control or letting himself sink into sensation. He is also on the loud side and vocal, sometimes it feels embarrassing, but it won't stop him.

He lets Viktor adjust his sitting position and moves between his legs, one brawny arm holding himself while the other caresses over Viktor's body to move and wrap his fingers, rough from a lifetime of forge experience, around the base of Viktor's cock. "That may be the hottest thing anyone has ever said to me." And that's coming closely after Viktor said he wanted to fuck him, so Viktor's on a roll. Jayce is hard against the mattress beneath him, and he ignores it.

"Any time you want to bend me over something, do it. I'll want it." Both their desks, absolutely, at other places in their lab, yes, up against the chalkboard, even more so, places they shouldn't be, sure. Jayce doesn't get around much, but when he is with a partner he desires, he wants them blindly.

The message given, his mouth watering, Jayce finally gives his full attention to what he's been dreaming about. He holds Viktor steady and licks the full length of him, teasing him with his tongue caressing the underside of his head until he has him hot and hard. He wastes almost no time before he hungrily parts his lips and takes the tip into his mouth, closing his eyes and moaning as he drops his head lower, adjusting as he goes. It's been awhile since his last time, but he's ready to get good practice in.