[i'll make this pretty one day maybe but feel free to toss me any starters here!! randos are welcome! you're welcome to reach out to me if you'd rather plot it out first c:]
[And now Rover is spending his free time taking care of Nicola... He feels a pang of guilt, but he keeps it to himself. He'll just have to use that guilt as motivation to recover and figure out how to sustain himself in this new era as quickly as possible.
Once they're in the boutique, Nicola admires the many gorgeous pieces of exotic clothing populating the racks. He ends up grabbing quite theselectionofoutfitshimself to try on because it's too hard to narrow down his choices just by looking at them. Rover makes it even harder for him by suggesting even more outfits. Those look really nice too...]
Ahaha, I haven't even tried anything on yet... Might as well add these to the pile too.
[He takes the other two outfits off the rack and lays them carefully on top of the other clothes he has draped over his left arm.]
This is more than enough to choose from. I think I'm going to need help putting some of these on, so can you come into the fitting room with me?
[ It's effortless to imagine considering Nicola's overflowing charms. How can it be hard to envision when he makes it so easy with his prince-like appearance? Rover's glimmering eyes continue to watch Nicola, visualizing him in these outfits… But who needs to imagine anything when Rover has the chance to dress the handsome foreigner up right now? ]
Yes, let's go!
[ Rover helps Nicola in carrying all the clothes they've picked out, heading right into the dressing room together. Thankfully, it's spacious in here, so they're able to set down the clothes on a table inside and still have room to move around. Without any ounce of shame, Rover even helps Nicola undress— Listen, they're both men, there's nothing to be ashamed of. ]
[As soon as Nicola feels the other man's hands trying to take off his clothes, he pushes them away playfully, trying to mask his embarrassment as usual.]
Now, now, be patient. I said I need help dressing, not undressing.
[First he slips his blazer off, then unties his tie, and unbuttons his shirt. This allows a first glimpse at the black Tacet Mark on Nicola's bare chest, right near his heart. Nicola is reminded of its presence himself as he glances over at the nearby full body mirror while slipping off his shirt. He isn't used to seeing it yet and he's certainly not fond of it, reminding him of the unpleasant memory of his fatal stabbing as well. His pleasant expression falters for a split second, but it's back to normal in the blink of an eye as he looks away from the mirror and continues to undress while avoiding looking at his Tacet Mark as much as he can.
While Nicola's build is on the lean side, he has the physique of someone who does a decent amount of physical activity. His arms and torso are toned, and while he doesn't have a six pack, his abs are also well-defined. Once he removes his shoes and pants, it's clear that his lower half looks just as good as his upper half. Other than some birth marks here and there, there are no other marks on his body.
The first outfit that Nicola tries on is this one. As he slips on the lower layer of the outfit, he realizes that he was right to ask Rover to help him. Nicola has no idea how to put this outfit together, but with his new friend's help the outfit is complete. He admires his reflection in the mirror, twisting his body so he can see it from various angles, then turns to Rover with a satisfied expression.]
[ As someone observant and sharp, Rover notices Nicola's reaction. Rover was informed by the hospital of what happened after all, so he's been aware of this. He stays quiet as he doesn't want to make Nicola uncomfortable. Time will heal all wounds, so all he can really do for now is to keep being there for this young foreigner. There will come a moment when they can look back to this day with lighter hearts, even if it might take months or years in the future.
Now that Nicola has finished undressing, Rover is quick to assist with the next steps. With full enthusiasm, he dresses up his new friend while giving him occasional praises, such as "I knew it, you're handsome in and out!" or "Your skin looks so nice!" Eventually, they finish and Rover takes a step back to fully admire Nicola in the put-together outfit. His eyes widen and sparkle, very clearly enjoying what he's seeing. ]
You look truly stunning! I'm in love!
[ Rover only means that as a praise, of course. He can't help it. Nicola is too beautiful. ]
[How much longer is he going to have to endure these flirtatious compliments? Surely he means that he's in love with the outfit, right? That's what Nicola is going to assume he means.]
Thank you. I'm in love with this outfit too. It's too formal for everyday use, but I think it would do nicely for special occasions.
[This one is a contender, then. Next he tries on the other outfit that Rover picked out, which Nicola also needs his help putting on. It'll take him at least a few more times to get the hang of dressing himself in these kind of clothes.]
Hmm... This one seems slightly more casual. Business casual, maybe? Is that term used here?
You're right. This first one is mostly meant for special occasions, but you can wear it at particular events too. Like a festival… or a date!
[ The unconscious flirting is nonstop because Rover doesn't realize how he's coming off. He's just saying what he wants to say honestly. ]
You can wear this other one anytime. It is good for business casual, but it's also fine for everyday. Martial artists and performers prefer outfits like these as they hold their shape well and are easy to move around with. Of course, we have modern options too.
[ Nicola likely saw the people wearing more modern outfits around town, Rover is among those wearing modern clothes. The scientists and medics also mostly wear modern. ]
A date, huh? I'll definitely keep that one in mind. [Nicola says this half-seriously in a playful tone.]
I see... It is surprisingly comfortable. I really like this one too.
[Another contender. Next up is the blatantly casual outfit. Of course, Nicola can easily put this one on by himself. It's a very different look from the other two, but he thinks this looks nice on him too.]
This one is an interesting blend of traditional and modern clothing. It's stylish enough to wear out and comfortable enough to lounge around in at home. If I have to pick just one outfit, I think this one is my top pick for its practicality.
[ "A-already!?" Rover wants to voice out, as he is actually surprised to hear Nicola has someone in mind already. But he doesn't get to say it due to the handsome foreigner's next outfit and added comments. They quickly distract him, once again openly admiring the young man. ]
No, no. We're getting all of these!
[ Rover insists. In fact, he's already collecting the ones Nicola finished trying out and the ones he hasn't yet. Rover is pretty much sold on the idea that anything here would look amazing on Nicola, just like he said. On the way out, this matching set also catch his eyes, so he adds that to the ones he's carrying. And like before, he pays for everything, including— ]
You can wear that on the way out if you like! I bought it as well.
[Those price tags are pretty high! Does Rover really make enough to afford all of this? He strikes Nicola as the impulsive type, so he can't help but be concerned about Rover's spending habits. They haven't even gotten groceries or toiletries yet...
His worries only increase further when he finds that Rover bought two more matching outfits on the way to check out while Nicola was changing back into his Italian clothes since he no longer had anything left to try on. He has to admit it is very stylish, though.]
Rover... Thank you so much, but really, you didn't need to spend this much on me... I'll wear it only if you promise to let me pay at the next store we go to.
You don't have to worry! I can afford it, really! But all right, if that will help you feel better about this.
[ Once they leave the boutique with shopping bags on hand, they head over to the next area where food and groceries are. The walls of various shops are all delightful and mostly traditional but there is also some measure of advanced technology around them, such as vending machines or high-tech refrigerators. Rover leads Nicola into a small grocery where they browse for everyday needed items. There's everything they need in a particular aisle: toilet paper, napkins, soaps, shampoos, toothpastes, and so on. ]
Are you still worried, Nicola? [ He asks while they're picking up supplies— ] I meant it! I really can handle it. I earn a lot from doing commissions and errands. They pay pretty generously around here if you put the work in. I earn so much that I don't even get to spend a lot of it, so I'm glad I can make use of it now.
[Since Rover agreed, Nicola changes into the newest outfit before they leave the boutique. It looks so good on him that the employees compliment him on his way out and he receives stares of admiration on the way to and at the grocery store. It is a little embarrassing, but he also feels really good in these clothes. Rover clearly has a good eye for fashion.
As Rover reassures Nicola about his income while they pick out supplies, he becomes even more curious about these odd jobs. If they really pay this well, maybe he should start doing them too.]
Really? Is there a hub for accepting these kind of jobs, or do you have to ask around?
[ It's no surprise that Nicola is attracting attention. He already stands out even in his normal clothes. Vibrant hair and eyes, glowing skin, even the way he carries himself so elegantly… It's hard not to stare at Nicola, even more so now that he's wearing traditional clothes that easily make the locals endear to him. Even Rover can't help but stare at Nicola whenever he has chances to do so. ]
Oh, are you interested? The kind I do is dangerous, that's why it pays pretty well. But you can also take on easier jobs within the city if you want to stay safe. Most people always need something, so you won't be short of work.
[ Their grocery basket is slowly filling up as they collect what they need. As Rover converses, he makes sure to remember what else they need. ]
As for seeking out bigger jobs, you can approach City Hall, the Pioneer Association, or Huaxu Academy. If you're up for assisting in the extermination or patrol efforts, I recommend approaching Instructor Yhan to receive some training. There's a huge training area at the north gate. You'll find him there.
[Nicola pretends not to notice Rover staring at him whenever it happens, but he definitely does. At this point he's starting to become numb to it.]
I'm very interested! I don't mind doing dangerous jobs, but I'll be good and wait until my body is fully recovered before I attempt any of those. I don't want to end up in the hospital again just yet. Perhaps tomorrow I'll start looking for easy jobs to do in the meantime. Thank you very much for the information.
[ Good boy, Nicola. Rover's glad to hear that Nicola's responsible enough to know when he should continue resting. He was actually going to tell him to wait until he recovers fully before accepting any physically stressful jobs, but it seems he doesn't have to say anything. He simply smiles at him and then adds— ]
When you're healthy enough to leave the city, I'll accompany you.
[ Rover doesn't want Nicola to start exploring all by himself yet. After all, Rover's been advised about watching out for Nicola's mental trauma. He wants to be there to ensure nothing will trigger a dangerous episode. And if it does, then he's right by his side to assist him immediately. ]
[Bold of him to assume that nothing inside the city will trigger him. Having a capable friend accompany him into uncharted territory certainly doesn't sound like a bad idea, though. Nicola's smile brightens further at the thought of it.]
That would be great. I'm looking forward to seeing you in action.
[They've finished gathering their non-edible essentials, so now it's time to move on to food. Nicola speaks again as they start wandering the many food aisles.]
I can't remember any recipes and the pre-made meals are expensive, so I'm not really sure what to get... How about we start with fruit?
[They can make for a healthy snack without any cooking required.]
[ Even if there's a chance, it's lower compared to outside! Besides, Rover will be occupying Nicola's time and attention constantly within the city so it'll be a challenge to get him to experience trauma. He'll have to go through the oblivious flirtations first— ]
Fruit would be nice! And don't worry, I can cook for us too.
[ Smiling closely right beside Nicola. 💕 As they walk towards the food and fresh ingredient aisles… ]
My friends said that I cook pretty well. I hope that you'll feel the same way.
You do? In that case, I'll leave most of the food shopping to you. I want you to make me the best recipe you know for dinner tonight.
[As he talks in a lighthearted tone, Nicola steps away from Rover so he can pick out some fruit and load them into their shopping cart. It seems he has a naturally keen eye for high quality fruit. Suddenly, his stomach lets out a growl.]
Haha, that's right, we haven't even had lunch yet... I won't make you cook two meals in a row, so let's pick up something from the hot bar after we get the rest of our groceries.
I definitely want to. It'll be our little celebration. Our private welcoming party!
[ It's a nice way to welcome Nicola into Rover's apartment. Since they'll be staying together from now on, it feels right to have a modest dinner party. Since Nicola is leaving the dishes to Rover, he walks off to start collecting the ingredients that he needs, pondering what sort of dishes he should serve his new roommate. He hasn't forgotten the fact the young foreigner is either a picky eater or just generally unused to their local cuisine, so he'll have to consider these. ]
Hmm…
[ He takes his time over here until he's satisfied, then the two of them eventually transfer to the hot bar. Food such as steamed pork buns, deep-fried buns, pineapple bun, egg tarts, and other hot snacks or baked goods are in display. Since Nicola is likely unfamiliar with these, Rover explains each item. ]
I think you'll like the pork buns. But if you like sweets, you'll like the deep-fried buns and the egg tarts. The pineapple bun looks sweet but it's actually savory, and I think this one has cheese in it.
[A private welcoming party... Rover is too sweet. Nicola didn't think of it like that, but now he can't help but smile even more brightly at the sentiment. His bright jade eyes scan the selection of food at the hot bar as his friend explains each of them, holding an empty container in his hands.]
Hmm... I'll take these.
[He takes a steamed pork bun and a pineapple bun, placing them in the container and closing the lid before putting it in their cart. Once Rover has made his selection as well, they head over to the checkout line.]
Don't forget, I'm treating this time!
[Will he be able to afford all of this? Just barely. Once the cashier starts ringing up their items, Nicola even bags everything.]
[ They end up with matching pork and pineapple buns. Rover doesn't interfere when Nicola starts paying for everything, even if he really wants to help… But since he wants his new roommate to feel comfortable, he lets him handle it for his peace of mind. When it's all taken care of, the two of them share the responsibility of carrying their shopping bags. Medicine, supplies, food, and clothes… There's only the matter of Nicola's literary and book requests left. ]
I know I said we could drop by the library along the way, but I think we should head home first and eat. It'll be easier to go to the library without these bags anyway.
[ Plus, Nicola is still newly discharged, so his stamina might not be at 100% yet. He might be pretty tired by now. It'll be a good chance to rest as well. ]
[With all these bags that they have to carry now, they definitely need to stop at Rover's place first. Nicola won't admit it, but he is indeed feeling tired, so he could use the chance to sit down and relax for a while.]
Sounds good to me. Some of these ingredients will spoil if we leave them unrefrigerated for too long. I've also been looking forward to seeing my new home.
[He isn't expecting anything fancy, but that's alright. Nicola is grateful to have a roof over his head at all.]
[ It's cute to Rover that Nicola is already calling it his new home. It may be obvious, but it's pleasant to hear the actual acknowledgment. The light tone in his voice also suggests excitement. Rover is feeling similarly, unable to wait any longer to take Nicola home. They start heading over to their apartment with Rover leading the way. Though Rover seems calm, the small springs in his fast steps and his bright eyes suggest that he's actually anything but calm.
It doesn't take too long. Soon enough, they've already come into the inner entrance of the apartment. The kitchen and living room (with a couch that folds down) leads to its left side, while the bathroom (more: 1, 2) leads to the right. The hallway forward leads to the main bedroom. It isn't much as it's meant for one or two people at most, but it definitely feels cozy and comfortable. Rover's been here for a few weeks and the space is still pretty tidy, indicating that he's a neat person overall. He smiles at him now as he allows his new roommate to freely look around. ]
[Seeing how excited Rover is to take Nicola to his home fills his chest with a warm, fuzzy feeling, but he doesn't really understand why. Surely he's just happy to be welcomed into his new friend's home. It should be fun living with someone that he gets along so well with.
Once they're inside the apartment, Nicola takes his shoes off near the door and looks around the room with a pleasantly surprised expression.]
Thank you! What a charming little apartment. Honestly, this is nicer than I expected... but I guess I shouldn't have been surprised considering how much money you make.
[He assumes that the rent for this sleek, modern-looking apartment must not be cheap. Nicola doesn't wander off too far yet, setting his bags down on the counter in the kitchen. They need to put their purchases away and eat their buns before they get cold. There will be plenty of time for looking around the rest of the apartment afterwards.]
I'll help you unload the bags. Just tell me where everything should go.
[ After Nicola takes his shoes off, Rover does too, and then he places a clean pair of white slippers for Nicola to use around the apartment. Rover has his own matching pair. They're neatly stored in the nearby shoe cabinet beside the inner entrance. ]
No, no. This is your place now too, Nicola. Feel free to arrange anything to your liking!
[ Rover doesn't want to act like some kind of boss. They're on equal footing in this living space now. Nicola can make himself at home and open the fridge and cupboards as he likes, arranging things as appropriately as he feels. The kitchen and living room are both openly visible from the inner entrance, so Rover doesn't need to point those out. ]
The laundry area is in the bathroom over here, so you can place your new clothes there if you want to rewash them. As for your medicine, there's a lot of cabinet space in the living room or the bedroom. Store them where you'd like.
[Wearing the slippers Rover provided for him, Nicola first unloads the groceries, starting with the ones that need to be refrigerated. The fridge is yet another piece of futuristic technology to him, so he seems fascinated by it. After opening the doors, he takes a moment to examine the labels near the drawers. Thankfully they use pictures instead of words so he quickly learns that one drawer is for produce and the other is for meat and deli products. He distributes the groceries accordingly and puts the non-refrigerated items in the cabinets.
Then there's the matter of where to put his clothes and medicine. It makes the most sense to put them in the room that he'll be sleeping in, but there's only one bedroom which obviously belongs to Rover. Surely he doesn't intend for Nicola to sleep in his bed with him, right? The couch in the living room is way too small to lay on. He doesn't realize that it can pull out into a bed, so he isn't sure where he's meant to sleep.]
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no subject
Once they're in the boutique, Nicola admires the many gorgeous pieces of exotic clothing populating the racks. He ends up grabbing quite the selection of outfits himself to try on because it's too hard to narrow down his choices just by looking at them. Rover makes it even harder for him by suggesting even more outfits. Those look really nice too...]
Ahaha, I haven't even tried anything on yet... Might as well add these to the pile too.
[He takes the other two outfits off the rack and lays them carefully on top of the other clothes he has draped over his left arm.]
This is more than enough to choose from. I think I'm going to need help putting some of these on, so can you come into the fitting room with me?
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[ It's effortless to imagine considering Nicola's overflowing charms. How can it be hard to envision when he makes it so easy with his prince-like appearance? Rover's glimmering eyes continue to watch Nicola, visualizing him in these outfits… But who needs to imagine anything when Rover has the chance to dress the handsome foreigner up right now? ]
Yes, let's go!
[ Rover helps Nicola in carrying all the clothes they've picked out, heading right into the dressing room together. Thankfully, it's spacious in here, so they're able to set down the clothes on a table inside and still have room to move around. Without any ounce of shame, Rover even helps Nicola undress— Listen, they're both men, there's nothing to be ashamed of. ]
no subject
Now, now, be patient. I said I need help dressing, not undressing.
[First he slips his blazer off, then unties his tie, and unbuttons his shirt. This allows a first glimpse at the black Tacet Mark on Nicola's bare chest, right near his heart. Nicola is reminded of its presence himself as he glances over at the nearby full body mirror while slipping off his shirt. He isn't used to seeing it yet and he's certainly not fond of it, reminding him of the unpleasant memory of his fatal stabbing as well. His pleasant expression falters for a split second, but it's back to normal in the blink of an eye as he looks away from the mirror and continues to undress while avoiding looking at his Tacet Mark as much as he can.
While Nicola's build is on the lean side, he has the physique of someone who does a decent amount of physical activity. His arms and torso are toned, and while he doesn't have a six pack, his abs are also well-defined. Once he removes his shoes and pants, it's clear that his lower half looks just as good as his upper half. Other than some birth marks here and there, there are no other marks on his body.
The first outfit that Nicola tries on is this one. As he slips on the lower layer of the outfit, he realizes that he was right to ask Rover to help him. Nicola has no idea how to put this outfit together, but with his new friend's help the outfit is complete. He admires his reflection in the mirror, twisting his body so he can see it from various angles, then turns to Rover with a satisfied expression.]
Well? What do you think?
no subject
Now that Nicola has finished undressing, Rover is quick to assist with the next steps. With full enthusiasm, he dresses up his new friend while giving him occasional praises, such as "I knew it, you're handsome in and out!" or "Your skin looks so nice!" Eventually, they finish and Rover takes a step back to fully admire Nicola in the put-together outfit. His eyes widen and sparkle, very clearly enjoying what he's seeing. ]
You look truly stunning! I'm in love!
[ Rover only means that as a praise, of course. He can't help it. Nicola is too beautiful. ]
no subject
Thank you. I'm in love with this outfit too. It's too formal for everyday use, but I think it would do nicely for special occasions.
[This one is a contender, then. Next he tries on the other outfit that Rover picked out, which Nicola also needs his help putting on. It'll take him at least a few more times to get the hang of dressing himself in these kind of clothes.]
Hmm... This one seems slightly more casual. Business casual, maybe? Is that term used here?
no subject
[ The unconscious flirting is nonstop because Rover doesn't realize how he's coming off. He's just saying what he wants to say honestly. ]
You can wear this other one anytime. It is good for business casual, but it's also fine for everyday. Martial artists and performers prefer outfits like these as they hold their shape well and are easy to move around with. Of course, we have modern options too.
[ Nicola likely saw the people wearing more modern outfits around town, Rover is among those wearing modern clothes. The scientists and medics also mostly wear modern. ]
no subject
I see... It is surprisingly comfortable. I really like this one too.
[Another contender. Next up is the blatantly casual outfit. Of course, Nicola can easily put this one on by himself. It's a very different look from the other two, but he thinks this looks nice on him too.]
This one is an interesting blend of traditional and modern clothing. It's stylish enough to wear out and comfortable enough to lounge around in at home. If I have to pick just one outfit, I think this one is my top pick for its practicality.
no subject
No, no. We're getting all of these!
[ Rover insists. In fact, he's already collecting the ones Nicola finished trying out and the ones he hasn't yet. Rover is pretty much sold on the idea that anything here would look amazing on Nicola, just like he said. On the way out, this matching set also catch his eyes, so he adds that to the ones he's carrying. And like before, he pays for everything, including— ]
You can wear that on the way out if you like! I bought it as well.
no subject
[Those price tags are pretty high! Does Rover really make enough to afford all of this? He strikes Nicola as the impulsive type, so he can't help but be concerned about Rover's spending habits. They haven't even gotten groceries or toiletries yet...
His worries only increase further when he finds that Rover bought two more matching outfits on the way to check out while Nicola was changing back into his Italian clothes since he no longer had anything left to try on. He has to admit it is very stylish, though.]
Rover... Thank you so much, but really, you didn't need to spend this much on me... I'll wear it only if you promise to let me pay at the next store we go to.
no subject
[ Once they leave the boutique with shopping bags on hand, they head over to the next area where food and groceries are. The walls of various shops are all delightful and mostly traditional but there is also some measure of advanced technology around them, such as vending machines or high-tech refrigerators. Rover leads Nicola into a small grocery where they browse for everyday needed items. There's everything they need in a particular aisle: toilet paper, napkins, soaps, shampoos, toothpastes, and so on. ]
Are you still worried, Nicola? [ He asks while they're picking up supplies— ] I meant it! I really can handle it. I earn a lot from doing commissions and errands. They pay pretty generously around here if you put the work in. I earn so much that I don't even get to spend a lot of it, so I'm glad I can make use of it now.
no subject
As Rover reassures Nicola about his income while they pick out supplies, he becomes even more curious about these odd jobs. If they really pay this well, maybe he should start doing them too.]
Really? Is there a hub for accepting these kind of jobs, or do you have to ask around?
no subject
Oh, are you interested? The kind I do is dangerous, that's why it pays pretty well. But you can also take on easier jobs within the city if you want to stay safe. Most people always need something, so you won't be short of work.
[ Their grocery basket is slowly filling up as they collect what they need. As Rover converses, he makes sure to remember what else they need. ]
As for seeking out bigger jobs, you can approach City Hall, the Pioneer Association, or Huaxu Academy. If you're up for assisting in the extermination or patrol efforts, I recommend approaching Instructor Yhan to receive some training. There's a huge training area at the north gate. You'll find him there.
no subject
I'm very interested! I don't mind doing dangerous jobs, but I'll be good and wait until my body is fully recovered before I attempt any of those. I don't want to end up in the hospital again just yet. Perhaps tomorrow I'll start looking for easy jobs to do in the meantime. Thank you very much for the information.
no subject
When you're healthy enough to leave the city, I'll accompany you.
[ Rover doesn't want Nicola to start exploring all by himself yet. After all, Rover's been advised about watching out for Nicola's mental trauma. He wants to be there to ensure nothing will trigger a dangerous episode. And if it does, then he's right by his side to assist him immediately. ]
no subject
That would be great. I'm looking forward to seeing you in action.
[They've finished gathering their non-edible essentials, so now it's time to move on to food. Nicola speaks again as they start wandering the many food aisles.]
I can't remember any recipes and the pre-made meals are expensive, so I'm not really sure what to get... How about we start with fruit?
[They can make for a healthy snack without any cooking required.]
no subject
Fruit would be nice! And don't worry, I can cook for us too.
[ Smiling closely right beside Nicola. 💕 As they walk towards the food and fresh ingredient aisles… ]
My friends said that I cook pretty well. I hope that you'll feel the same way.
no subject
[As he talks in a lighthearted tone, Nicola steps away from Rover so he can pick out some fruit and load them into their shopping cart. It seems he has a naturally keen eye for high quality fruit. Suddenly, his stomach lets out a growl.]
Haha, that's right, we haven't even had lunch yet... I won't make you cook two meals in a row, so let's pick up something from the hot bar after we get the rest of our groceries.
no subject
[ It's a nice way to welcome Nicola into Rover's apartment. Since they'll be staying together from now on, it feels right to have a modest dinner party. Since Nicola is leaving the dishes to Rover, he walks off to start collecting the ingredients that he needs, pondering what sort of dishes he should serve his new roommate. He hasn't forgotten the fact the young foreigner is either a picky eater or just generally unused to their local cuisine, so he'll have to consider these. ]
Hmm…
[ He takes his time over here until he's satisfied, then the two of them eventually transfer to the hot bar. Food such as steamed pork buns, deep-fried buns, pineapple bun, egg tarts, and other hot snacks or baked goods are in display. Since Nicola is likely unfamiliar with these, Rover explains each item. ]
I think you'll like the pork buns. But if you like sweets, you'll like the deep-fried buns and the egg tarts. The pineapple bun looks sweet but it's actually savory, and I think this one has cheese in it.
no subject
Hmm... I'll take these.
[He takes a steamed pork bun and a pineapple bun, placing them in the container and closing the lid before putting it in their cart. Once Rover has made his selection as well, they head over to the checkout line.]
Don't forget, I'm treating this time!
[Will he be able to afford all of this? Just barely. Once the cashier starts ringing up their items, Nicola even bags everything.]
no subject
[ They end up with matching pork and pineapple buns. Rover doesn't interfere when Nicola starts paying for everything, even if he really wants to help… But since he wants his new roommate to feel comfortable, he lets him handle it for his peace of mind. When it's all taken care of, the two of them share the responsibility of carrying their shopping bags. Medicine, supplies, food, and clothes… There's only the matter of Nicola's literary and book requests left. ]
I know I said we could drop by the library along the way, but I think we should head home first and eat. It'll be easier to go to the library without these bags anyway.
[ Plus, Nicola is still newly discharged, so his stamina might not be at 100% yet. He might be pretty tired by now. It'll be a good chance to rest as well. ]
no subject
Sounds good to me. Some of these ingredients will spoil if we leave them unrefrigerated for too long. I've also been looking forward to seeing my new home.
[He isn't expecting anything fancy, but that's alright. Nicola is grateful to have a roof over his head at all.]
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[ It's cute to Rover that Nicola is already calling it his new home. It may be obvious, but it's pleasant to hear the actual acknowledgment. The light tone in his voice also suggests excitement. Rover is feeling similarly, unable to wait any longer to take Nicola home. They start heading over to their apartment with Rover leading the way. Though Rover seems calm, the small springs in his fast steps and his bright eyes suggest that he's actually anything but calm.
It doesn't take too long. Soon enough, they've already come into the inner entrance of the apartment. The kitchen and living room (with a couch that folds down) leads to its left side, while the bathroom (more: 1, 2) leads to the right. The hallway forward leads to the main bedroom. It isn't much as it's meant for one or two people at most, but it definitely feels cozy and comfortable. Rover's been here for a few weeks and the space is still pretty tidy, indicating that he's a neat person overall. He smiles at him now as he allows his new roommate to freely look around. ]
Welcome home, Nicola!
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Once they're inside the apartment, Nicola takes his shoes off near the door and looks around the room with a pleasantly surprised expression.]
Thank you! What a charming little apartment. Honestly, this is nicer than I expected... but I guess I shouldn't have been surprised considering how much money you make.
[He assumes that the rent for this sleek, modern-looking apartment must not be cheap. Nicola doesn't wander off too far yet, setting his bags down on the counter in the kitchen. They need to put their purchases away and eat their buns before they get cold. There will be plenty of time for looking around the rest of the apartment afterwards.]
I'll help you unload the bags. Just tell me where everything should go.
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No, no. This is your place now too, Nicola. Feel free to arrange anything to your liking!
[ Rover doesn't want to act like some kind of boss. They're on equal footing in this living space now. Nicola can make himself at home and open the fridge and cupboards as he likes, arranging things as appropriately as he feels. The kitchen and living room are both openly visible from the inner entrance, so Rover doesn't need to point those out. ]
The laundry area is in the bathroom over here, so you can place your new clothes there if you want to rewash them. As for your medicine, there's a lot of cabinet space in the living room or the bedroom. Store them where you'd like.
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[Wearing the slippers Rover provided for him, Nicola first unloads the groceries, starting with the ones that need to be refrigerated. The fridge is yet another piece of futuristic technology to him, so he seems fascinated by it. After opening the doors, he takes a moment to examine the labels near the drawers. Thankfully they use pictures instead of words so he quickly learns that one drawer is for produce and the other is for meat and deli products. He distributes the groceries accordingly and puts the non-refrigerated items in the cabinets.
Then there's the matter of where to put his clothes and medicine. It makes the most sense to put them in the room that he'll be sleeping in, but there's only one bedroom which obviously belongs to Rover. Surely he doesn't intend for Nicola to sleep in his bed with him, right? The couch in the living room is way too small to lay on. He doesn't realize that it can pull out into a bed, so he isn't sure where he's meant to sleep.]
Oh, by the way... Where should I sleep?
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