Chapter Text
The streets are pleasantly quiet as Avior and Starlight walk together in the late evening air. Their meandering path had led them to the park, where Starlight was happily naming every species of flora they’d come across. Avior listened raptly the whole time, relishing the opportunity to listen to them talk; Elegy seemed like a whole new world through their eyes, and just like in hell, he was learning to fall in love with it through Starlight’s vibrant curiosity.
Just as Starlight is gushing over a Mentzelia lindleyi flower, Avior feels the first few drops of rain.
“As much as I love these facts Starlight, we should head out my love.” He offers his hand to them.
“Do we have to?” Starlight pouts but gladly takes their hand. “I was hoping to find some trees to show you.”
“Next time, I promise.” He murmurs. “After all, we have all the time in the world now.”
They smile and kiss him sweetly. The pair stare at each other for a moment before a raindrop falls onto Starlight’s eye and they recoil. “Ack no you're right let's go.”
As they reach the entrance to the park, the rain begins to worsen with the telltale signs of a thunderstorm.
“Oh no.” Avior holds out a hand looking quite frustrated with the sudden downpour. “This was not forecasted by the human you made us look up.” He huffs, summoning an umbrella, holding it over their head without a second thought.
“Surely rain doesn't affect you that much?” They ask amused, looping their arm through his and snuggling closer under the umbrella.
“Well yes but I'm concerned for your wellbeing Starlight.” He puts a hand to their forehead. “Can't have you getting sick.” He frowns.
“Ooh look!” Starlight is distracted by a warm orange glow in the distance. “It's the cafe! The one I told you about, let’s go!”
They begin dragging him along the path, and as much as he wants to just go home, the sight of their bright face lit up by the soft light ahead is something he wouldn't trade for anything.
Stepping inside, Avior is taken off guard at how calm it is. The walls are covered in fairy lights and cat themed decor. There’s an assortment of nice smelling baked goods mixing with the bitterness of coffee creating a pleasant aroma. A rather large cat is nestled in a basket at the till, purring happily along with the rainfall.
“Huh. It is rather cozy with the rain.” He remarks to himself, peering out the tall windows.
“See? I'm often right, you should listen to me more.” They tease, elbowing his side lightly, gesturing to the grey cat. “Here, this is Captain Sparkles, he’s a little grumpy but once he warms up to you he’s the sweetest - much like someone else I know.” They wink, pressing a kiss to his cheek.
“Is there a cat that asks incessant questions?” He retorts, no venom in his voice. “Do you want a snack since we’re here?”
They nod with a beaming smile, and the joy radiating off of them could have fed him for days. The two sat for hours, holding hands in a little window seat, rain running down the window; enjoying much deserved peace.