eternal sin 7

[warmskies]

started from here

[Irritation pricked along Mukuro's skin at the sight of the priest wiping his saliva away as if it was something disgusting and unwanted, as if he hadn't been so eager beneath him just days ago.

He sighed, gently pushing the priest away from him as he stepped away from the wall, tipping his chin up to look at him fully, mouth down turned.]

It'd be a kindness to us both, but since when has a demon ever been known for kindness?

[He flicked his hair out of his face in annoyance, turning away from him.]

For now, I'll leave you be. Enjoy your life, Chikusa Kakimoto. It was fun while it lasted.

[He exited the dream there, annoyance crackled through every fiber of him. He could, he supposed, continue the dreams but it felt like getting nowhere. Perhaps he should show more initiative? To give the priest a more tangible reason to believe him?

It took a few months to find a suitable host, then to become used to being in a human body without tearing it apart, and longer to get used to being in a human body in general. There were bodily functions, the weather to contend with, and the need to sleep. It felt like Mukuro was always sleeping.

Once he was sure he was able to use the body to his leisure, he made his way to Chikusa Kakimoto's church. Since the priest hadn't told anyone about him, it was an easy enough thing to wear sunglasses during the day to hide his eyes. The months he had followed the priest had guaranteed he knew his routine, and he made sure to be stationed in a pew right where he could be seen.

Upon seeing the priest, he definitely wasn't going to give a cheeky wave and a smirk. Definitely not.]

[It'd be a lie to say that there's not a sense of loss when he wakes up in the morning, knowing that there's at least a decent chance he won't see the demon again.]

[Wrong response, he knows. That's part of the problem. Yet what else can he say? It had been so nice to be touched so often, even if he had been leery of it every time just because of the unknown factor of the creature's intentions. It had been nice, on some deep level, to hear that he was wanted and valued.]

[But... Demons lie. A simple fact of life. It had only been a matter of time before that sort of thing would reveal itself, and then nothing else could be looked at the same again. Chikusa tries to forget it. It's hard when he wakes up in the middle of the night, body warm and aching for another touch, for lips stroking his so intimately. All he can do for those nights is try to desperately go back to sleep, or take a cold shower when it's particularly bad.]

[If some nights he gives in, softly strokes himself just a little and presses fingers to his lips as if that can mimic a kiss, never reaching release.... Well. That's between him and God.]

[Chikusa doesn't let himself dwell. Best he can, he moves on with his life and tries to change it. It becomes apparent to him all too soon that every part of his apartment reminds him too much of things- a kiss in his kitchen, a stroke along his hair in the living room, another's body heat in his bed. It makes Chikusa realize how beneficial it is to not spend much of his money on anything- that means it's easy to make the move to another apartment when time comes to renegotiate his lease. He doesn't need it, not really, but the change helps drive the memories away.]

[Yet home and church have always been closely tied for him, and change in one needs to be reflected in the other. Chikusa tries. They're not very elegant tries, no- more than a few times he suspects he's made a fool of himself. Yet... Even those times almost seem to help, in some strange way. Chikusa doesn't understand it.]

[That doesn't mean there's no effect when, after a couple of months of being back and recovered, his mentor carefully but gently puts a hand on his shoulder and thanks him for his work after one mass in particular.]

[Chikusa spends that night by himself, staring blankly at his television and recovering.]

[Objectively, he knows the changes have been very little. A room to sketch in and watch a busy street from, having his schedule occasionally asked about, being invited for coffee after service. Yet when he's used to nothing, anything feels enormous.]

[He's in the middle of going to get lunch since there's nothing for them in the church and things are too busy in preparation in the back for a fair to draw more visitors to the church when he hears someone walking through the pews. There's no helping it- he emerges, ready to see if it's one of the usual church goers or someone in need of help from the church...]

[And promptly freezes when he sees that familiar face sitting quaint as you please in one of the pews.]

[For a solid moment, his mind can't put things together. He... knows who that person looks like. But, it can't be. Maybe- their encounters were dreams, and demons didn't look human. Maybe it's, by pure coincidence, the person Mukuro stole the look from because he liked it-]

[Wait, no, nevermind, now he's waving at him.]

[Stunned, Chikusa can only walk down the aisle in a daze before stopping by him. He can't even get himself to speak.]

[All the trials that Mukuro had had to suffer through in order to get used to inhabiting a human body ( remembering to eat at certain times, hallucinating because he hadn't wanted to sleep and had stayed up for days on end, and having a dampener put on all of his senses and powers so that he felt weak and feeble ) were worth it to see that dumbstruck look on the priest's face. It had been his goal after all, and he was glad at least that he could claim that as a prize.

He had almost expected the priest would run in the other direction, but he was pleasantly surprised when he came closer instead. Just in case there was any question, he lowered his sunglasses to smirk up at the priest, mismatched eyes in view for a few moments before he pushed them back up.]

"You're looking well, Chikusa Kakimoto."

"I..." [It's him. Those mismatched eyes prove it. Chikusa tries to pull himself together, but he doesn't have much luck with it.] "Why are you here?"

[His smirk only widened, pleased that he was having such a visible effect on the priest. He stood smoothly, keeping a polite distance between them, though for whose sake it was hard to tell. In dreams, everything was a bit muted, blurred, faint. It was real but it wasn't. Some people could get lost in those and mistake them for reality. Chikusa Kakimoto was not so weak and feeble, fortunately or unfortunately.

Mukuro knew intimately the effect he had on the priest in dreams, but he had to wonder if the effect would be magnified in real life or if it would lose it's luster. He canted his head to the side, smile turning almost vaguely pleasant.]

"Why else would I be here, my favorite priest?"

[He leaned forward slightly, still not enough to be seen as forward but enough to close the distance between them slightly. He wanted to touch the priest, a draw as strong as it had ever been, more difficult to resist now that he couldn't taste his dark secrets on his tongue or hear his heartbeat quickening or feel his body heat. Being human was terrible and inconvenient.]

"For you, of course."

[All it takes is for Mukuro to stand up, and Chikusa remembers.]

[A hand splayed across his chest, pressing him down into cushions. A body leaning in close to his while whispering a deal. Teeth, nipping at his throat, and lips sliding against his before their tongues-]

[Chikusa takes a sharp breath and pulls himself into the present. That promise gets his heart beating, just like when Mukuro had said he'd never let him go. It'd been easy in the dreams to dismiss it, but- this isn't possession, the signs aren't there, the body seems fine...]

[Complete ownership of the body. Just like he'd told him all those months ago.]

[His heartbeat goes faster.]

"I... I told you I didn't want to deal with you again... "

[But there's no solidness to the statement like when they'd last spoken. Chikusa's eyes flicker away, breaking their gaze, and he makes a move to leave.]

"I have to attend to my duties... I can't deal with you right now."

[This mortal body of his might have all the senses of a worm, but that doesn't mean that Chikusa Kakimoto still wasn't as easy to read as he had always been. Mukuro didn't bother to hide his smirk, instead straightening so the priest could have some reprieve, following after him a respectable distance.]

"Liar."

[It had been enough for the priest to get angry at him and cut off their contract, so Mukuro felt as if he could point out when the priest did so at his leisure.]

"There hasn't been anyone to attend to in at least an hour. Why do you think I chose now? Or should I come back when the church is more crowded?"

[Abruptly, he comes to a sharp stop, and it could just as easily be because of the declaration of himself as a liar as it could be for Mukuro's suggestion to come back during more crowded hours.]

"No."

[Taking a deep breath, he turns around to face Mukuro properly again.]

"There's still a lot we have to do right now.... And I'm not going to deal with you during church hours. [His lips thin.] Can... you not wait until after the day is done to talk with me?"

[This priest sure knew how to make a demon feel welcome in the house of god. He frowned slightly, resting a hand on his hip as he debated between being difficult ( namely throwing a fit ) or being reasonable since the priest was clearly unsettled. He should give him some time to collect himself before he jabbed at him again. He hadn't spent these past few months trying to learn how to use a voicebox properly and how to fit himself into this vessel for nothing.

He turned away with a sigh, holding out a hand.]

"Do you have a phone? Give it to me."

[While setting foot in a church wouldn't result in him bursting into flames since god so rarely visited these houses of worship, it didn't mean he was going to hang around all day waiting for Chikusa Kakimoto to finish his duties. Even if he was in a mortal vessel, there was still debauchery, sin, and chaos he had to instill. It was all rather thrilling when he had a front row seat.]

[A phone.... It's so strange, to have the demon have to contact him by such mundane matters instead of simply showing up as he felt like it. Nothing else drives home the fact of what he's done more than that.]

[...Still. He does have a phone. Pulling it out, he offers it to the demon silently but with his uncertainty obvious to anyone who could look at the way his brows are so slightly furrowed.]

[Without so much as a 'thank you', Mukuro took the phone quite deftly as if he expected Chikusa Kakimoto to change his mind at the last minute. He entered his contact information in under the name 'Chrome Dokuro-sama', well aware that the rest of the priest's order might still remember the alias he had used when possessing one of their number. It gave him no small amount of glee to do so, handing it back with a smirk.]

"When you're ready, please give me a call. I'll be expecting it."

[And if he was stood up, well, the saying would be changed to 'hell hath no fury like a demon scorned'.

He gave a little wave as he turned to leave.]

"It was good to see you again, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[Warm flesh and blood fingers brush against his own as the phone is taken from him, and Chikusa feels off balance right from the start. This is real. This isn't a dream, a misty sensation punctuated by hot touches. Everything is real.]

[It has Chikusa jerk back, tense, and he hurries away with concerned glances back at the demon leaving the church. For the rest of the day, his mind isn't on his work or any upcoming events for the church. All he can think of is that brief brush of their fingers and those eyes peering at him in amusement over sunglasses. If only he was home, to go over notes he hasn't touched in ages- there's always the chance the demon was lying about that but he's sure he'd said that becoming human wasn't easy...]

[...Is that what he'd been doing all these months?]

[Small blessings that he doesn't have to perform any exorcisms. Chikusa isn't sure he could focus on one with the disarray his mind has been thrown into. No one seems to notice anything is wrong, which is... for the better. Yes. It is. He'll handle it himself, just like all the times before.]

[Chikusa tells himself that, even as evening falls and his work starts to draw to a close. Taking his phone out as he helps with evening clean up, he pauses only briefly before sending a message.]

Where are you?

Right behind you.

[Was the near instantaneous reply back, though Mukuro was nowhere to be seen. He had a good cackle before he added:]

Where should we meet?

[He had spent most of the day laying the groundwork for his information network here, calling in favors to set up a new ( eternally free ) apartment. When he had seen that Chikusa Kakimoto's old one had been up open, he had been sorely tempted to use that one before he had decided against it. The priest had moved out for good reason, so there was no point in trying to drag him back.]

[If Chikusa jolts and really does look back- well. That's not his fault. He's dealing with a demon, and that sort of thing is to be expected.]

[There's definitely a frown on his face when he replies, however.]

There's a cafe a five minutes walk from the church.

[Close enough for convenience, but without being right near the church. Whatever happens.... Chikusa doesn't want to taint that holy ground.]

I can be there in half an hour. Order a drink for me?

[He had to watch the movers and make sure they were setting up his apartment to his exact liking, after all. Besides, being in a mortal body meant he was constrained to one place at a time, and he couldn't instantaneously be somewhere else. And traffic in this city was rather brutal.]

Why am I ordering you a drink?

[...But he still might do it anyway. Sigh. Putting on his coat and other such things as he finishes up, Chikusa frowns to himself as he stares down at his phone.]

[Why is he doing this to himself again? He thought he'd moved on. He was improving his life. But...]

[The petulance of the priest was astounding, and Mukuro had to wonder if it was his influence or if Chikusa Kakimoto had always been that way but only felt comfortable enough to be so. Either way, he was going to be honored, chuckling as he texted him back quickly.]

It's only the polite thing to do. I would do the same if our situations were reversed.

[Half an hour later, Mukuro sauntered into the small cafe, sans sunglasses, eyes sparking when he spotted the priest.]

"This is a nice cafe. Do you come here often?"

[It could have been an innocent question if it wasn't the most overused pick up line in the history of humanity and Mukuro wasn't smirking victoriously as he asked it.]

[In the time it's taken Mukuro to get here, Chikusa has found a curled up spot in a corner away from other people where he can get lost in his thoughts. Normally- well, lately, he's been trying not to be so anti-social, but...]

[As always, Mukuro throws everything into disarray. Right now, more than anything, he needs a little bit of space to try and get his mind together.]

[When he sees the demon, Chikusa thins his lips and tries to keep his shoulders held straight.]

"...Now and then. What do you want?"

[Chikusa Kakimoto's wariness and distrust was not unexpected, but it was still not preferable to that shock and surprise he had first displayed. With a small sigh, Mukuro sat down across from the priest, tipping his head to the side.]

"What I've always wanted. "

[If he was lying, at least he was consistent.]

"Should I get something to eat too? I'm hungry."

[What he's always wanted- him.]

[Chikusa tries to ignore that dark needy part that wakens in his chest, the same part that had shivered at Mukuro's declaration that he'd never let go of him all those months again. Instead, he just glances back to the counter.]

"...What do you want to eat, then?"

"I'm still getting used to these things. What would you recommend?"

[Mukuro paused, frowning slightly as he canted his head to the side. It seemed like his body was always hungry, which was more annoying than he cared to admit. Plus he was curious to the priest's preferences.]

"So long as there are no pecans in it."

[Apparently his vessel was sensitive to those things, and he hadn't completely taken over to fix that flaw yet. Maybe in time.]

[So he hasn't been in the body long... Chikusa keeps that in mind.]

There's... a salad they do with berries and chicken in it. [No comment on the pecans, although Chikusa raises an eyebrow. What an interesting detail.] And coffee?

"Is it filling?"

[His body's stomach grumbled at the thought. He had chicken before. It had been prepared well enough, and he knew what a salad was. It would be worth it to try, if Chikusa Kakimoto was suggesting it.

The mention of coffee made him frown thoughtfully ( he had tried it once, and it had scalded his tongue and made it useless for a day ) before he turned his attention to the menu. The salad then, and maybe some ridiculously complicated coffee order. He had always wanted to make one, and he started to mentally build one.]

"What are you getting?"

"They make them large enough here, so I would think so. "

[Chicken, plus the other ingredients, along with whatever there was to drink... Yes it should be enough. Still, what's with that frown? He's the one that asked for Chikusa to buy him a drink in the first place. Before he can point this out, however, the question is being turned back on him.]

"I was going to make dinner at my home... I only planned on getting a frappuccino for the walk home."

"So you were going to let me eat alone? How unexpectedly rude of a man of your station."

[Not that he could expect much morality from Chikusa Kakimoto just because he was a priest. He'd proven that he was as susceptible to sin as any. Now if only he would stay that way.

Mukuro crossed his arms over his chest, shooting the priest a small frown.]

"Should I come along as well? I haven't seen your new place."

[Promptly, Chikusa's expression becomes cold and his eyes narrow.]

"You never informed me about any desire to have a meal, only to meet. "

[Well, that and a drink, but even then, Chikusa is fairly certain it still counts then. Hearing the demon speak of his new apartment isn't surprising, not with the things he's spoken of in the past, but Chikusa still shifts a little uneasily.]

[He doesn't want the two of them to be alone again... He doesn't want their interactions to devolve into lustful touches again. (At least, so he tries to tell himself.) So long as they're in public, it feels at least a little like he can avoid such a scenario.]

"I told you I wanted nothing more to do with you.... Why would I invite you into my home?"

"You're the one who insisted to meet so late, priest. Humans eat during this time."

[Unfortunately, many seemed to be eating all the time, and between that and sleeping, Mukuro couldn't understand how they got anything done. Coupled with their laughably short lives, it never ceased to amaze him that they ever managed to accomplish anything.

If the priest's coldness bothered him, Mukuro didn't seem outwardly affected by it, instead waving a hand.]

"Should I invite you to mine instead? [He canted his head to the side, smirking slightly.] We both know that you can't be so rid of me so easily. I told you, didn't I? That I would be with you for eternity. Why lie to me about your desires and fight against them?"

"I don't have a lot of free time... "

[A priest's work is never done, after all. Service, counseling for those who requested it, paperwork, organizing church events... and, of course, the exorcisms. It means Chikusa's day is often full up. Times like now, right after he's finished his main duties, are some of the only ones he has available.]

[It can't be helped.]

[Probably like how it can't be helped that Mukuro reminds him of the promise he'd made, and Chikusa's shoulders hunch up awkwardly even though he steadfastly keeps his expression as it is.]

"And what would you do at your home? I don't think demons know that kind of etiquette."

"Yet here you are. Might as well eat."

[It wasn't as if Mukuro didn't know the priest's schedule intimately, and it was rather convenient that he had agreed to meet him during this time instead of lunch. For one thing, it made him nostalgic for the other time they had spent together, when they only met at night.

That sort of jab only made Mukuro laugh lightly, his head canted to the side as he surveyed the priest.]

"What do other mortals do at home? Sleep, eat, and relax. I'm not interested in getting my repayment yet, if that's what you're worried about."

[Mostly because it'd been a while since he'd tried in a mortal body. It might be best to do a few test runs first...]

"...Maybe. "

[It still feels strange to spend too much money on himself. Even moving and buying a few things for hobby has felt almost like too much. His bank account isn't suffering at all, but...]

"You seem to be settling in as a human well, then. [Chikusa doesn't know what to make of it as he briefly meets those eyes.] And... where do you live, exactly?"

"Should I treat you then? Considering everything we've done, it only seems appropriate to buy you dinner."

[It wasn't as if Mukuro, who had known how to blackmail, extort, and make money in excess since the days of bartering, was lacking in money. It helped to know some highly connected mortals in this day and age, and it was always helpful to know where ancient treasures of old were.

That question made Mukuro chuckle softly, and he turned back to look at the menu in consideration.]

"You'll have to wait and see, priest. I'd rather not wake up to have crosses nailed to my door or to have holy water be splashed in my face every morning."

[The joke doesn't go over Chikusa's head, hints of that old blush creeping along his skin. If he wasn't so pale, perhaps it wouldn't be so noticeable, but there's no escaping it now.]

"So long as you don't expect or want anything in return. "

[It wouldn't necessarily hurt, would it...? It's not as though it's food the demon is making himself.]

[The next statements earn a scoff, and Chikusa crosses his arms on the table.]

"I wouldn't do something like that. "

[...It would make people lose faith in their church if, for no apparent reason, one of the priests just started hammering crosses into a random man's door.]

[It was good to know that Mukuro hadn't lost his touch, and he let out a soft chuckle at the blush that stained the priest's cheeks. It was an ego booster, not that he supposed he needed one, but considering how much the priest had been protesting his presence...]

"Just your continued company as always."

[Mukuro flicked his bangs out of his face as he flagged down the waitress, smirking over at the priest.]

"No? What would you do with the knowledge of where I lived? Send a mob with pitchforks? Break in to see how a demon decorates? Join me in the shower?"

[The last one was said with a particularly throaty laugh at the thought, Mukuro propping his chin up with the palm of his hand.]

[That sounded fake, but fine. Thinning his lips, Chikusa glances over the menu again. It'd be easier to banish the heat from his face completely if not for the demon's dreadful habit of not shutting up.]

"None of that, and you know it."

[As the waitress arrives, Chikusa occupies his attention with giving his order- the same thing he recommended to Mukuro. He shouldn't be too greedy, after all.]

"Then why ask, priest? "

[As usual, Mukuro wasn't interested in making this easy for Chikusa Kakimoto. He had, after all, said all those hurtful things about not wanting anything to do with him. Then in the very next breath showed some interest in him. Which was it? Not that he didn't enjoy the teasing and the tight rope walk.

He raised an eyebrow at the similar order, before leaning back in his chair to assess the priest's expression.]

[Why ask indeed? The waitress is a good distraction from having to answer for a little while, but then all Chikusa can do is avoid his gaze afterwards.]

[He should keep avoiding him, he knows. Should never have arranged this meeting or let it happen. Yet here he is: seated in a cafe having dinner with a demon. There's still anger in him, isn't there? So he wants to believe, but...]

"You know where I live. It's only fair."

[Mukuro took it in, the way that the priest studiously avoided his face, the petulant retort, and how he was still here despite everything else. Well, so long as there wasn't pitchforks or holy water involved, perhaps there would be little harm done.

He dug out his phone, texting his address to the priest, curious to know what he would do with the information. It was in a center point between the church, Chikusa's new apartment, and his old one. It was in a surprisingly modest neighborhood, since Mukuro didn't care much for living in high rises and occupying more space than necessary. If he had his way, he would be living in a decrepit ruins, but unfortunately it was difficult to do in an actual mortal body. Unfortunately the days where he could perform his business deep in the woods under a full moon had long since passed.

Once he was done, he tucked his phone away, mouth quirking upwards.]

"How is your new place?"

[It feels strange to pick up his phone immediately as it hums with a new message, and Chikusa can only hope it doesn't make him seem desperate since the demon is sitting right there in front of him. When he sees the address, he raises an eyebrow.]

"...Surprisingly humble. "

[Which is a word that doesn't match Mukuro at any other time, so you'll forgive him for the slow raise of his eyebrow. Is there a catch? Is it covered in gold and has furniture made out of the bones of the innocent? He's having a difficult time putting 'normal' and 'Mukuro' in the same train of thought.]

[His lips twitch at the knowledge that Mukuro knows he's changed residences.]

"Pleasant. It fits the change I wanted to make."

[Desperate was the last look Mukuro would dislike on the priest's face, and he poorly hid an amused chuckle at his eagerness. At that observation, Mukuro only shrugged, smiling innocently.]

"You should know better than most that my avarice isn't for wealth or money."

[No, he preferred something far more carnal. Besides, he doubted the priest was the kind to be impressed by shows of wealth, so going through all of that trouble would be an unnecessary hassle.

He raised an eyebrow at that information, nodding politely to the waitress who returned with his coffee that was piled nearly a mile high with whipped cream, chocolate and caramel syrup, and chocolate pieces. Happily, he dug into it, licking some of the whip cream off of the top, humming in appreciation.]

"Oh changes like your cute fuzzy hat? Have you been wearing it?"

[So no pecans or wealth but a frankly extravagant amount of chocolate. Chikusa sees.]

[Politely thanking the waitress, he takes a ship of his own frappechino which partially hides his expression at the observation.]

"Why such an obsession with that?"

[Listen, he only overindulged in the most extravagant of things. Whether it came to a priest's body or chocolate. Which was preferable?

That would get a small chuckle out of Mukuro as he swiped more whipped cream off of the side with a finger, sticking it into his mouth happily.]

"It's a good barometer for your changes. So, have you?"

[Aka Mukuro has 99 issues and a cosplay fetish is definitely one.]

"Or have you been making more friends?"

[Briefly, his gaze flickers to that finger being slipped past a pair of lips he's more than familiar with before he willfully forces his eyes away. No. He's moved on. None of that.]

"...Only according to you. Anyway, the weather has been too warm for most of them. "

[And that includes Mukuro's apparent favorite.]

"And... I've been working on my connections to the church. "

[It's the best he can do, right now. How do you just suddenly make friends, anyway? Chikusa has no idea. So, in lieu of any other options, he's fallen back like so many other times onto the church. He can't really call anyone a friend, but... they're stronger relationships, being that there's any at all, so it counts, doesn't it?]

[The priest's gaze doesn't escape Mukuro's notice, though he would try to be subtle for now, smirking slightly before drinking his coffee instead of toying with the toppings.]

"So you'll wear it when the weather changes? I'll look forward to it."

[The mention of church connections made Mukuro hum softly in consideration. 'How is your mentor' was right at the tip of his tongue, but he thought better of it. No need to bring up unpleasant matters.]

"Should I help you?"

"No."

No hesitation.

"A tip then?"

[Mukuro tapped a finger against his lips thoughtfully, smirk almost feral.]

"Perhaps you should invite more people out to dinner instead of just a demon."

[While Chikusa's expression stays stubbornly the same, it's easy to see the tension that locks up his shoulders.]

"...Of course. What good advice, thank you. "

[He pushes himself away from the table and up to his feet, taking the frappechino.]

"I believe I'll start following it right away, then, so good night to you."

"Chikusa Kakimoto."

[Mukuro didn't make a move to stop him just yet, but his gaze flickered to the side to track the priest's movements.]

"It's dangerous at this time of night. I'll go with you after we've eaten."

[Laughable, considering Mukuro was the biggest danger here by far. He also sees you're not putting that frappechino down you stingy priest.]

[Listen, waste not want not, okay?]

[Briefly, he pauses to look down at the demon and frowns at him.]

"Any more dangerous than all the other times I've walked these streets at this time? I'll be perfectly fine."

[Okay but he's totally fine with wasting that salad that definitely was not going to be filling and leave Mukuro to deal with them both? Rude.]

"You never know, priest. Times are changing."

[Would his being trapped in a mortal body bring out his enemies? Of course it would. It just was a question of when or how quickly. He wasn't defenseless, not by a long shot, but his priest, well.

He propped his chin up with the palm of his hand, smirking softly.]

"At least wait until the salad comes out. Then you're free to storm off."

"...I wasn't storming off. "

[Although, really, how needlessly cryptic. Chikusa stays where he is for a moment longer, still frowning somewhat to himself, before reluctantly turning back to sink into his seat.]

[However, if Mukuro is expecting him to be particularly talkative after that, well. Resting his chin in one hand, Chikusa turns his head to stare out the window stubbornly.]

[Back to the cold shoulder.]

[It had definitely looked like storming off, and being the diva that he was, Mukuro should be able to recognize it. Still, he had already opened his mouth and made an error. He could learn to be quiet. For now, at least.

He'd allow Chikusa Kakimoto to sulk in silence until the salads came out, and Mukuro was going to start eating. And gently nudging his foot against the priest's, but who was keeping track?]

[At least there's silence, and Chikusa is more than happy to let it continue on for as long as he stays with him. All he plans on doing is eating and then going home. Meeting with the demon again, as usual, was a mistake.]

[...It'd just be a lot easier to ignore him if he wasn't nudging his foot.]

[Chikusa tries to ignore him before sighing quietly.]

"I know you're a centuries old creature, so please act like it."

[That retort was only going to get a small chuckle out of Mukuro as he picked at the salad, which definitely wasn't as delicious as the coffee.]

"You've been researching me?"

[It was a better topic than to point out that Chikusa Kakimoto had, not a few moments earlier, been giving him the cold shoulder. Depending on his answer, Mukuro might just continue to nudge him just because he could.]

[Not everything can be covered in chocolate, Mukuro.]

"Would a demon be any younger?"

[Chikusa turns back to his food, trying to brush off the question. Truthfully... It had occurred to him to do so. A demon's true name is a way to identify it, after all. If he had tried, he's sure that he could have found all sorts of information on the creature.]

[But... His fork toys with a bit of chicken , and Chikusa frowns to himself. If he'd done research... Maybe he would have given in and called the demon again even with how burned he had felt.]

[It'd been for his own good to keep himself away from information like that.]

Mukuro shrugged lightly at the question, abandoning the salad for now in favor of his coffee. He would regret it later when he couldn't sleep and when his stomach complained about being empty, but for now, the indulgence was worth it.]

"Possibly, though I confess, there are few others of my kind worth keeping tabs on."

[Though since this wasn't his favorite topic, namely hearing what the priest did when Mukuro wasn't watching him ( especially if it concerned him in any way ), he switched it back.]

"What did you find?"

"Nothing."

[Acting nonplussed, Chikusa continues to eat his food. He won't give the demon the satisfaction of knowing how much he's affected him or his life.]

"Didn't I say I was done with you those months ago? Why would I look you up further?"

[Spearing a raspberry, he raises an eyebrow.]

"If I needed to exorcise you again, I already know your name. It's easier with that, as you know."

"Curiosity, perhaps. To verify if what I've told you is the truth. Because you wanted to."

[Mukuro waved his hands dismissively at the priest's retort, which was flimsy at best. He had indeed said he was done with him, yet here he was, eating dinner with him. He knew better than to point it out and press his luck again, but it didn't make Mukuro believe meeting up again with him would be difficult.

He raised an eyebrow at that, leaning forward, gaze sharpening with interest.]

"It's different now, as you're aware. This isn't possession so much as it is a symbiotic relationship."

"...I know. I remember that much. "

[And it's the implications of this difference that leave Chikusa feeling unsure all over again. If it had simply been another possession, that'd be one thing. If this were a dream, it'd be one thing.]

[But...]

"Why?"

"What else do you remember, Chikusa Kakimoto?"

[It was said with a rather generous play of Mukuro's tongue on his lips as he lapped up more whipped cream. Shameless, him? No, never.

The question made him wary, mostly because he didn't want to have to explain himself to the priest. Especially if in the end it wasn't going to get him what he wanted.]

"Why what?"

[You mean always, and Chikusa forces his eyes down to look at his food in order to avoid getting transfixed on the sight. Right, he can't even look at the other if he wants to stay focused.]

"Why would you go through the trouble of getting a body like that?"

[It's definitely pleasing that he still had such a visible effect on the priest, but it didn't make Mukuro smug enough to actually put into words why he was in this decrepit, highly inconvenient body.

Drink finished, Mukuro started back into his salad, unsatisfying compared to the highly sugary drink.]

"You're not a foolish and unintelligent man, priest. Why do you think I went through all the hard work of taking a vessel?"

[That's why you save the best for last, Mukuro.]

[Pursing his lips, Chikusa doesn't answer right away. He can't answer right away, not when the demon's words from earlier are still ringing through his ears. In fact, those same words leave his lips soon.]

"You said it was for me.... but there's no way I can possibly believe that."

Mukuro huffed a slight sigh at that, stabbing at some of his chicken and lettuce in annoyance.]

"Then why ask? Should I lie to you instead? Would you believe those more?"

[His words came out sharp, lightly mocking.]

"I adore these new coffee concoctions so much I just had to taste them for myself. I like being vulnerable to danger. I wanted to see if stepping into a church would make me burst into flames."

[Softly, his fingers tighten around his for at the mocking.]

"I'm only one human. A single human out of many. You'll forgive met that i'm so skeptical."

"Is forgiveness in a demon's nature now as well?"

[Since the priest seemed so sure he was such an expert on them and all. Mukuro's turned away from him with a small sigh, tucking his chin into the palm of his hand as he watched people pass by on the street.]

"It's about the quality of the human, priest. I have yet to meet your equal."

"Who knows, although it seems I can say that an inability to understand sarcasm is. "

[Don't pull that shit with him, Mukuro, he has as much time for it as he did the first time you bothered him: zero.]

[Those other words draw him back into silence however, and Chikusa continues to pick at his food to hide his uncertainty. How can he respond? It's the same words the demon had been telling him since their first meeting... That he's special, unique in some way. It's nothing but hubris to believe him... Wistful thinking, even, that someone thinks like that. But...]

[From beneath his bangs, Chikusa glances up at him. He's here, in the body of a human not possessed and having searched him out again. The demon even knows that he's moved out from his old apartment. What can he say to that?]

"...I'm still very young..."

"My, my, you've gotten more prickly in my absence, priest. Who's been teaching you such tricks?"

[If he thought much of the jab, Mukuro didn't show it, mouth curved upwards slightly.

If anything, it was that completely telling silence after that throwaway comment that made enduring such barbs worthwhile. It seemed as if the priest truly wanted to believe him, even with knowing better and knowing the nature of demons. It was interesting to watch play out, and Mukuro kept his gaze on the priest's through the window's reflection.]

"Are you saying you'll get better with age?"

"Hmph..."

[As usual, nothing ever seems to work. Even in the dreams, the only things which seemed to get past that smooth exterior had been his threats (and eventual promise) to leave.]

"I would hope so."

[The answer sounded more dismissive than argumentative, and Mukuro let out a soft chuckle at it. He let the silence lie comfortable and undisturbed between them, sated by both the food and the company.

Still, the streets were becoming darker as the sun began to set, and with it, Mukuro was starting to get tired. It still took effort to use this body, and it seemed to always want to sleep. It was annoying.]

"Would you like to see where I live?"

[It was offered idly enough as Mukuro signaled for the waitress to bring over the check.]

[Idle offer or not, it makes Chikusa freeze in place. It had been brought up before, in a way, but... He'll admit he had hoped the demon would forget about it and just let him run off.]

[Because...]

"I... suppose. "

[He can't resist this kind of temptation, of the same kind of curiosity that likely doomed Adam and Eve.]

[Excuse this demon didn't put all this work into all of this just to let Chikusa Kakimoto run off.

That easy agreement made Mukuro turn his mismatched gaze to him, eyes slightly widening in surprise, before he laughed, soft and easy. This priest was so contradictory. One minute he wanted nothing to do with him, and the next he was going to follow him home.]

I'll call a cab.

[Technology, at least, Mukuro could understand, and as he paid for their meal, he was already booking a cab.]

"I'll even have you home at a decent hour."

"The least you could do is at least not make me regret agreeing to it so immediately. "

[He'll do that all his own, thank you. Right now, Mukuro's actions just have him frowning as he gets off of his feet. He knows that this can't be a good idea but still...]

[A sigh whistles out of him.]

"Please don't do anything strange."

"I'm flattered I have such control over your emotions, priest. "

[Look, he could dole out sarcasm too, and he flicked his gaze up towards Chikusa Kakimoto's face with a small, smug smirk.]

"Please feel free to let me know what qualifies as 'anything strange'. Should I take out all my satanic artifacts before you come in? Make sure the orgy has been safely concluded? That my pet demons are properly in their cages?"

"Ah. So what I'm hearing is that you want me to call the police about your apartment. "

[Oh, he knows that it's.... probably as mundane as anything else, although he'd only put that around 90%. Still, Chikusa isn't much in the mood for nonsense.]

[Besides.... There's actually a bit of satisfaction that he could do that. Human body, human rules.]

"My, my, you've moved onto moresomes have you? How impressive."

[Mukuro accepted his card back from the waitress, scrawling a nice tip amount on the check, before getting up, shooting the priest an amused look.]

"That's rather generous of you. If I was going to be rewarded so, I'd buy you dinner more often."

[Against his will, a glaring red flush starts to spread in sharp contrast to his pale face and Chikusa narrows his eyes at the remnants of his food before getting up as well.]

"Amazing. You can pervert any sentence. "

[That said, he starts to shuffle for the exit. He'd rather not be in this place any longer, with the demon saying things like that for just about anyone to overhear.]

"It's part of my nature. I'm sure you've missed it."

[Even if he said otherwise, that flush definitely gave him away.

Mukuro shoved his hands into his jacket pocket, sighing at the brisk night air. It would be a nice night to walk back home, if he wasn't so sleepy and full of food. Since the priest was taller, he made an excellent wind barrier, and Mukuro took full advantage of that, sliding close to him, humming as they waited for the cab.]

[Besides the dreams that now seem much more recent than he used to recall. Chikusa never really has anyone get into his space very much. It's probably his general coldness and distance, even now with the strides he's tried to make. Old habits die hard.]

[So Mukuro slinking up near him earns a puzzled and faint scrunch of his eyebrows.]

"...What?"

[Wow why does he always gotta doubt him like that.

However, since that expression wasn't a scornful or angry one, Mukuro only chuckled, tipping his face up towards the priest's.]

"It's cold and you're a good wind breaker. Don't look so suspicious, Chikusa Kakimoto. Has no one taken advantage of your height before?"

[Still, Chikusa can't argue with simple logic, and his shoulders rise in a shrug.]

"If they have, I've never noticed before. Still.... It's bold of you to tell me to not be suspicious. "

[He tilts his head away, glancing down the street and away from the demon as he murmurs his next words.]

"After all... You've taken advantage of more than my height before."

Mukuro could only laugh at that, shoulders shaking as he ducked even closer, mirth written across every inch of his face.]

"Do you think I'd accost you in public, priest? Or are you hoping I will?"

[He turned away to look for the cab, still chuckling.]

"Is it taking advantage when you were a willing participant? How long are you going to act as if I did something you didn't enjoy?"

[If only the demon had waited a month or two- then at least Chikusa could blame the red on his face from cold and harsher winds or hide behind a scarf. Even with the chilly night air, however, it hasn't gotten to such points yet, so all he can do is tuck his chin against his chest.]

"Yes. Someone can be taken advantage of even if they agreed to something. ...And I never said I didn't enjoy it.... Don't put words in my mouth."

[Oh now that piqued Mukuro's interest, and he leaned in even closer, their arms touching.]

"Really? Then how did you feel about the whole experience priest?"

[It was difficult to tell if he was toying with him or not, but it was a dangerous game to play with a demon.

Though Chikusa Kakimoto would be saved from answering right away by the cab pulling up. Courteously, Mukuro opened the door for him before going around to the other side, asking for the driver to turn up the heat a bit. He was never going to get used to the cold.]

"Ashamed, mostly."

[And, beyond that, Chikusa refuses to say anything more as he ducks into the cab. It's the return of the cold shoulder as he partially turns his body away from Mukuro, looking outside as they pass by building after building.]

[It's not only stubbornness that has him refuse to talk to Mukuro about the whole thing, but the presence of someone else, too. Even if this wasn't a sensitive topic, Chikusa is a private person. No one else should get insight into what's going on in his life, even if it's only bits and pieces.]

[And... what's happened with him and the demon in the past is very personal.]

"Yet you enjoyed it all the same? What a good priest you are."

[Otherwise, he would leave Chikusa Kakimoto to his thoughts, drowsily leaning against the window as the quiet car ride started to lull him to sleep. It was only when the cab stopped that he opened his eyes, leaning forward to tip the cab driver before getting out, yawning slightly. The apartment complex wasn't anything too remarkable, just a squat little building in between a few stores, and Mukuro made his way in, heading up to the sixth floor.

He opened the apartment door with little difficulty, presenting the interior to Chikusa Kakimoto. Just kidding it looked more like this except tinier and with a comfy couch set down in front of a TV and random artwork hung all around. If the priest was adventrous enough, the bedroom looked like this.]

"Make yourself comfortable. Would you like some tea?"

[Mukuro shucked off his coat, draping it easily over one of the chairs as if he'd lived here forever instead of just a few days.]

[Well then. Chikusa isn't sure what he was expecting after hearing about the location Mukuro had chosen for his human dwelling. Yet he supposes he can't be surprised that it's leaps and bounds better than his simple and cheaply affordable little place. It's... chic. That's the word, he thinks, feeling more than a little awkward as he steps inside.]

[It's... been a long time since he's visited anyone's home. For anything other than business, anyway. As a priest, sometimes he's called upon for family troubles or to do last rites on the dying, but that's always in a purely professional sense. Being here for... a casual visit is new. Awkwardly he goes to settle down on the couch, definitely not adventurous enough to visit the bedroom.]

[...Besides, he can just imagine what the demon might say about that.]

"Yes."

[His awkwardness carries into his voice, because he's even more unsure of what to say. Are you supposed to tell a demon that his apartment is nice? Chikusa suspects not. How did you even get a place like this anyway? He's not sure if he wants to know.]

[For once, Mukuro was going to leave the priest be and not point out the glaring weakness he was showing at the moment, heading into the kitchen to put the kettle on. It was different than in dreams, since he actually had to be mindful of everything, and if he wanted something not stocked in his pantry he couldn't just will it into existence.]

"Are you still only drinking lemon tea or have you become adventurous, my cute priest?"

[He paused, poking his head out of the kitchen to smirk.]

"You can put your mind at ease. The couch isn't made of actual human skin and no murders were committed to get me here."

[As Mukuro pokes his head out, he'll be greeted by that typical slight frown Chikusa so often makes at him.]

"I wasn't thinking that. [Except maybe a little.] And you don't have to call me that, either... "

[But right. The question.]

"...I've been trying white teas lately."

"It's fine so long as it's not in public, isn't it?"

[It probably wasn't fine but Mukuro was going to keep doing it anyway, and resistance was just going to be futile.

While it was good that the priest was getting out of his comfort zone, Mukuro hadn't adequately prepared. He frowned at his cabinets as if it was their fault, before sighing softly.]

"I'll have some for next time. Would lemon be acceptable?"

"No."

[And they both know it. Still, Chikusa does know that the demon likely won't listen. After all, when has he ever? So he just adjusts himself on the couch, trying to seem calm and not wildly uncomfortable at all.]

[He's not very successful.]

[Still, he can't help but feel his lips twitch at the words that come from the kitchen.]

"That's fine. Not so easy when it's not a dream, is it?"

"So I should just stick to calling you that in public? My, my, you've been getting rather bold Chikusa Kakimoto."

[Though for all his bluster and verbal rejection, he hadn't denied coming back to his apartment. Interesting.

Mukuro pouted as he came back out into the living room, taking a seat on the couch an acceptable distance away from the priest, sighing.]

"Don't sound so smug about it, priest. I'm doing my best. I don't know how mortals get anything done. All I want to do is sleep."

[The sentence was fittingly punctuated with a yawn, Mukuro sighing in annoyance afterwards.]

[Like he said: the demon never listens. Chikusa stops trying, hand folding over the other as he comes back. How much more vulnerable he seems, now that they're on even playing fields. Truly, the difference between humans and demons is stark, and it's never been more noticeable than watching and listening to the demon complain.]

"We've learned to manage, clearly. [He quirks an eyebrow.] What have your sleeping habits been like?"

[That smartass comment was only going to make Mukuro nudge their knees together in displeasure, too tired to do much more than that.

However, the priest's question was a tempting one. 'Lonely' would undoubtedly make Chikusa Kakimoto turn red, but instead he decided to go a different route, turning to look at the mortal with a soft, amused smile.]

"Worried about me, are you?"

[Worried?]

[...Maybe he can't deny that. After all, look at all he's done: accepted a demon into his home, accepted his touches and compliments, and now he's sitting here in his house. Diverting his eyes down to his hands, Chikusa resists the urge to twist his lips in confusion.]

"I'm not so petty that I'd wish you suffer now that you're on earth in a mortal body like the rest of humanity. I wouldn't be much of a priest then, would I?"

[The priest could be endearingly honest and cute when he put his mind to it. But at the same time, there was a danger in this. Hadn't the priest gotten angry at him for 'lying'? For letting him assume things that were not true or outright misdirecting him?

He turned his face away, sighing softly.]

"Don't forget that this is only temporary, priest. Even if this body is mortal, the soul inside is still that of a demon."

[Though it might not have its usual bite, since he sounded more drowsy than anything. When the kettle started to whistle, it took him a few moments to rouse himself up to shuffle over to the kitchen, yawning widely.]

"I don't want to hear complaints about how I took advantage of you just because I'm in this form."

[How trying it must be, attempting for all the usual infernal dramatics but held back by the limitations and flaws of the human body. While he should be more worried, he can't help but acknowledge it's hard to be frightened when the demon is like this.]

[It's almost like he didn't come close to ruining Chikusa's life a few months ago.]

"I'm aware. What would you rather I do in response, attempt to get you baptized?"

"If that's your response, I'd rather pick up where we left off last."

[It was both vexing and comforting to know that the priest was taking all of this in stride. Vexing because it meant that he might not be taking him seriously at all. Comforting because it meant that he wouldn't cut Mukuro out like this, at least not right away.

He sugared his tea liberally before bringing the tea to the couch, handing the priest his and holding his own mug with both hands, trying to get warm. It seemed ever since he had been trapped in this body, he hadn't been able to get warm.]

"Or if you're still feeling shy, having dinner again would be nice."

[Of course. It's never long before one of those jokes came into being. Accepting his tea, Chikusa sighs into it which seems to help it cool a little.]

"Is that all you wanted to do in that body? [He tests the temperature of the tea with his mouth, glancing at Mukuro from the corner of his eyes.] Tease me as usual and make innuendo?"

[That can't be it... And he can't think they can go to how things were during their agreement. At least, Chikusa can't imagine he would. That time... is past. Even as pleasurable and relaxing as the touches were, he only did those things for a reason.]

[There's no reason now. He tells himself that firmly.]

"My, my, should I do something different? I suppose I could go to church every Sunday and spend time with you there, but it might make things difficult for you."

[Mukuro yawned slightly before taking a sip of his tea, the hot liquid failing to rouse him. Undoubtedly within the next half hour he'd be sound asleep, so it bore asking:]

"Would you like to stay the night? "

[And before the priest could start flailing, he waved a hand dismissively.]

"I would take the couch, unless you've missed having me in bed."

"If you can't keep your lascivious comments to yourself, I shudder to imagine how you would be in a holy place. "

[Although, for his use of wording, Chikkusa's tone is as deadpan as usual... Well, that can't be helped.]

[True enough, the invitation earns a sharp twitch of his fingers, and there's a look of wariness and puzzlement as he glances at Mukuro from the corner of his eyes. Is this a trick of some sort...? He wants to believe it, because that would be easier, but the demon really does seem genuinely exhausted.]

"...I don't have a change of clothes, or anything else."

"I can behave just fine. With proper motivation, of course."

[Instead of winking, Mukuro just yawned afterwards, shaking his head slowly as if to try to shake himself awake.

The priest's protests were sound ones, and placing his mug of tea on the coffee table, Mukuro just leaned back into the couch, curling up a little.]

"Does a priest wear anything different day to day? You could leave early enough. If you need toiletries, I have extra."

[It definitely had nothing to do with Mukuro being vain as hell. Nope.]

"It's a matter of cleanliness, not uniform."

[Now that's an idea that would make him shudder... Although if he woke up particularly early...]

[His plans are disrupted, and he takes a sip of his tea trying not to seem too suspicious.]

"Oh, do you have many visitors then?"

[Orgy joke from earlier, what orgy joke]

[Oh now that question was going to have Mukuro straightening slightly, sending the priest an amused look.]

"Jealous?"

[It was mostly teasing, so he added:]

"As difficult as it might be for you to believe, I have people I look after or some who want to visit me. I'd be an ungracious host if I couldn't provide the basics for them?"

"More along the lines of concerned. "

[After all, the demon had "looked after" him and look where it had gotten Chikusa. Or maybe they don't even realize what's happened- that body was once another human's after all. Such a line of thought only serves to make Chikusa frown more.]

[Maybe... he shouldn't try to leave the demon alone after all.]

"...It is getting late. So long as you don't get up to your usual tricks..."

[But if that exhaustion is genuine, Chikusa doesn't think he'll have to worry.]

"Why should you be? I've never left you unsatisfied, have I?"

[Still, since the priest seemed to be agreeing to stay the night, Mukuro painstakingly unfolded himself from the couch, gathering up his mug and draining it as he went into the kitchen. He rinsed it out and left it to dry before heading back towards the living room, gesturing for the priest to follow him.

Guess Chikusa Kakimoto was going to be adventurous today after all. He flipped the light switch on, heading into the room to dig out the toiletries from under the sink.]

"Tooth brush, tooth paste, floss, disposable razor if you need one, and spare towels are in that cabinet over there if you need to take a shower in the morning."

[He yawned widely, stretching.]

"Do you need anything else?"

"That's not the point. "

[And Mukuro knows it, which is why Chikusa doesn't say anything else as he pushes himself up. It's getting increasingly hard not to watch the demon, curiosity keeping pale eyes locked onto the slow shuffle and weight to his legs. It's fascinating; he can't help himself. It feels like a privilege, seeing something which has always presented itself smooth and elegant and predatory reduced to human restrictions.]

"No, that's fine. Besides, I suspect you'll lose consciousness in a moment, so I wouldn't want to overburden you. "

[Sarcasm or genuine? The world will never know.]

"Human bodies. Only good for one thing."

[It was muttered darkly, since Mukuro could neither argue that he wouldn't pass out soon enough, instead leaving the priest to his own devices as he set about gathering blankets and pillows to bring with him to the couch, pausing in the doorway.]

"Good night, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[For all intents and purposes, as soon as he settled down on the couch and had situated it to his liking, he was going to be out like a light.]

[It'd be a simple matter to reply emptily- a nod of his head, or a bland return of the same- and Chikusa supposes he should. There's no more bond between them, not really, no contract or anything of the sort.]

[Yet for a moment, he stands there staring at the demon in the dimness of the apartment, rolling the words around in his mouth and tasting them on his tongue before releasing them.]

"Good night, Mukuro. "

[The first time he's used his name all night. It feels strange.]

[He beats a hasty retreat into the bathroom after that, stripping down to what he's comfortable with (which is still somewhat covered up). He doesn't waste much time cleaning up before heading for the bedroom. He probably doesn't want to know what's happened on this bed, and, even after he's done kneeling for his nightly prayers, Chikusa tries to keep them constant in his head as he lays there.]

[It takes a little while for him to find sleep. Unsurprisingly, with where he is, he's soon up early to rise as well. Wearing the same shirt and pants as the night before is a strange new experience, as is waking up in a place not his own. It feels surreal, almost as if he's still asleep, even as he shuffles into the living room.]

[Unfortunately Mukuro didn't have much of an opportunity to celebrate or feel victorious about the priest addressing him ( even if it was somewhat erroneously, he knew that he omitted the '-sama' just to be rude at this point ).

Waking up was still a strange experience for him, a groggy, slow reaction. It didn't help that Mukuro had slept oddly on the couch, and there was a pain in his neck. He blinked his eyes blearily as he watched the priest shuffle into the room, rubbing his eyes as he tried to recall last night event's. Ah, right. Surprisingly, the priest had stayed over.]

"Do you have time for breakfast?"

[It came out rough, groggy, Mukuro sitting up, his hair in worse disarray than it usually was. It was as if instead of just having pineapple hair, he had a whole bushel of them.]

[A lesser man, seeing the state Mukuro is in, would probably choke on their own laughter. Chikusa isn't a lesser man. He's a man who's obsessively focused on controlling his own life and gets annoyed when his emotions aren't so easy. So he doesn't laugh at the bussel of pineapples, just takes in a slow deep breath and wonders if he'll have enough time to get his camera.]

"...It seems like you need a few moments to recover before you even think of making breakfast."

If Mukuro was aware of Chikusa Kakimoto's thoughts, he didn't show it, pushing the blankets off of him sluggishly. He wouldn't argue with the priest's astute observation, sitting on the couch for a few moments as he centered himself back in the mortal vessel he was inhabiting. He hoped with time it would get easier, and it had been, but for now waking up was still an immense chore.]

"Tea helps."

[Which might be the shortest sentence he had ever uttered, and instead of it being coy or a command, it sounded like a suggestion.]

"I see. Wait there, then."

[He goes off into the kitchen, feeling a bit strange from the unfamiliarity of it, but a kitchen is a kitchen. It doesn't take him long for him to get the kettle ready. As the water boils, he disappears back into the bedroom to get his cassock folded and ready, along with fetching his phone.]

[Yes, he absolutely is snapping a picture as he goes back into the kitchen, Mukuro.]

[Nodding sleepily, Mukuro stretched slightly, turning to fumble for his phone. It was far earlier in the morning than what he would have liked, but perhaps as soon as the priest had left he could go right back to sleep.

Slowly, he got to his feet, yawning widely, running a hand through his hair ( which only made it worse ) as he headed into the kitchen, eyes narrowing slightly when he found it empty.]

"Priest-" [He paused as he heard footsteps, turning around with a small scowl.] "What's all this?" ['All this' being that phone of his.]

"Nothing to concern yourself about. "

[Just a picture of him at his most ridiculous. Chikusa tucks his phone away again, going over to search for mugs.]

"I thought you'd wait for tea."

[Mukuro didn't look too convinced, but it was far too early to argue and if the priest wanted pictures of him, he was only going to assume it was for certain reasons.

Yawning, Mukuro sat down on one of the bar stools, head drooping slightly as he hummed in reply.]

"You were taking too long. You'll have to leave soon without having a chance to eat."

"I was gone for perhaps a minute, if I'm being generous. "

[Setting things down on the counter, he starts to flick through the cupboards for something quick to make. If nothing else, he's sure he can manage toast.]

"You're quite concerned about my eating habits."

"A long time."

[It was mumbled meaningfully into Mukuro's arms as he nestled his face into them, yawning slightly.

The sound of the priest rummaging around in his cabinets made him glance up blearily, arching an eyebrow.]

"Should I not be? Have you been taking proper care of yourself?"

"Unlike you, I've been in a human body all my life. I'm well aware of how to take care of it. "

[Getting the bread out, he goes to set it in the toaster before looking back to him. It's still striking how vulnerable and soft the demon is like this. For a second, he doesn't realize he's been staring, and he shakes his head when he does.]

"...You can go back to sleep if you want."

[For once, Mukuro didn't have the energy to argue with the priest, especially since it seemed like a silly topic to goad him on.]

"I still know how to take care of human bodies, despite not being born into one."

[Okay, maybe he wasn't that lethargic, his smirk small and knowing, before he shot the priest an amused look at his suggestion.]

"I'll see you out. It's the least I can do for being such a lacking host."

[Besides he was probably going to nap for a good hour after the priest left, not that he needed to know that.]

[He's not even going to ask.]

[...Besides. The tea kettle is whistling now, and he quickly goes to get the mugs ready. The steam wafting up, warm and wet, helps clean away any remaining sleep from his brain.]

"I preferred it. You didn't bother me, and were manageable."

[With the tea ready, he lets it steep as he places one mug in front of Mukuro.]

"...What do you want out of this? It can't simply be my company."

[With a small sigh of satisfaction, Mukuro accepted his mug, sugaring it far more than necessary. He scowled slightly at that assessment, canting his head up to look at the priest.]

"Shouldn't you see it more as I followed the instructions you gave me? Though I'll take some comfort in the fact that I got you into my bed the first night I took you home."

[Even if he wasn't in it at the same time, but idle victories he would take.

The repeated question, however, made him frown into his tea, taking a sip to fortify himself.]

"You already know the answer to that, Chikusa Kakimoto. How many times are you going to ask before you're satisfied?"

"...It doesn't make sense. "

[With that, he retreats back to the sound of the toaster going off. This will have to be quick, but that's fine. In his work, he's often rushed breakfast so that he would be there at the church early and getting everything set up.]

[Instead of falling completely silent, however, he still continues talking quiet.

"I can't wrap my head around it. You've toyed with how little I know about others before.... but you keep pressing as if you have genuine interest. It's... frustrating."

[This was not the sort of conversation Mukuro wanted to have when he was half-awake, the tea barely helping slice through the sleep fog he found himself in, and it seemed unfairly that the priest was a morning person. It put Mukuro at a disadvantage, his mask not securely in place yet, his charisma not charged to its fullest. Still, this was an opportunity, one that Mukuro had been waiting for, and he wasn't going to let it pass without a word.

He leaned forward, smile amused as he watched the priest collect his toast, head canted to the side.]

"Are my actions a lie to you as well, priest? You already don't trust my words, so what else can I do to convince you?"

[Are his actions a lie?]

[Reaching him through his teacher, one of the few personal ties he has with other people. Visiting him again and again. Taking on those tasks even when it seemed to greatly disgust him.]

[And... this. Taking a human body for his own and seeking him in particular out.]

"...I suppose... if I said they were, then I'd be the liar. "

[Placing a plate down in front of Mukuro, he gets a napkin for his own food.]

"I have to leave or I'll be late. "

[A bit of a change compared to what he was saying before.]

[Now that wasn't a response Mukuro was expecting. Obediently, he took a piece of toast, surprised that the priest had made one for him as well, raising an eyebrow at that confession.]

"Don't think that this discussion is over, priest."

[But he would allow him to retreat for now, getting up from his stool, slathering jam onto the piece of toast. He came to stand by the priest, smirking at him from beneath his lashes.]

"Keep your Saturday free."

[Almost immediately, his lips thin.]

"You are quite presumptuous for someone I tried to kick out of my life. "

[...Although maybe not for someone who invited him to his home and was successful. Chikusa tries to step around him and put some jam onto his own toast quickly.]

"I make no promises."

"Yet here we both are despite your best efforts."

[Mukuro smirked at him, pointedly staying in the way to lean in closer, tipping his chin up to let his gaze meet the priest's.]

"Be sure to call me Chikusa Kakimoto. I'll be waiting."

[He stepped out of the way with a smug smirk, snacking on the toast idly.]

"Do you need money to get home properly?"

[Jaw set stubbornly, he hurries away from Mukuro and out of the kitchen the second he's able.]

"I'll be perfectly fine. Please don't waste a Saturday expecting my own to be free. "

[With that parting shot, he leaves, nibbling at the toast in annoyance as he waits on the sidewalk to call a cab.]