Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It all happened when a famed researcher was at the end of his wits.

The world bore witness to a plague. It took the population by storm. Though not contagious, the infection spread indiscriminately across approximately ten percent of the populace. It ended as soon as it had started—the ten percent were kept under constant surveillance, but there appeared to be nothing to halt the rapid spreading of the virus through their bloodstream. 

Its main symptom is the blood clots appearing in the bloodstream, with no prior injury or health issues to explain the reasoning. These would rapidly accumulate and spread through the body like a virus, blocking off the blood flow to major organs, and in some cases, even from within. 

Faced with this new and supposedly incurable blood disease, they had called on the aid of a man many deemed to be extraordinary. A genius with his sights set on the earth rather than the vast cosmos above—a doctor who has done the unthinkable, time and time again. He singlehandedly developed the serum for lithogenesis, solved equations long lost to time and has even gone as far as to establish schools in his name. A man who meticulously applies himself to his research, and has managed to expand the lifespan of even those with unhealthier habits, such as smoking, through developing a means to keep the lungs clean and reducing the risk of death regarding lower respiratory infections as well as being the leading researcher on studies regarding heart diseases. Under his supervision, the lethality rate had slowly begun to dwindle. 

All in all, his name is hailed as that of a savior, regardless of how callous he comes across. 

Doctor Veritas Ratio.

He would cure what no one else could.

He would step into the light and bring about their salvation.

Except, he couldn’t.

There was nothing he could do. He deduced this after attempting to treat the tenth patient. He knew far sooner, but, as everyone else, he was but a man, and man’s greatest strength—or weakness, perhaps—tends to be hope. 

Veritas Ratio does not chase after rumors. After superstitions. He certainly does not believe in that which is beyond human— the supernatural, in the common tongue, and yet…

When whispers of aid from a supposedly hidden vampiric society arose, willing to lend their assistance at a cost… he had gone up to that building and requested an audience with the owner of the penthouse. 

They had tried everything. Ratio had suggested injecting the patients with a safe dosage of snake venom to keep the blood flowing, but not even that stopped the rapid and inexplicable growth of the blood clots. 

Stepping out of the lift with a sigh, Ratio prepares to face this so-called vampire with a healthy dose of suspicion. 

Despite his pallid, almost sickly complexion, Aventurine is a strikingly beautiful man, objectively speaking. Blond hair that falls down to his shoulders, eyes that are not red like the rumors would suggest—a mix of magenta and cyan with black, slitted pupils. His attire is far too gaudy for Ratio’s tastes, however. The man attempts to exchange pleasantries, thus grating on Ratio’s nerves, so the doctor cuts right to the chase.

“Mr. Aventurine. Do you happen to be the vampire of rumors?”

Aventurine paused. Ratio expected him to burst into a fit of laughter and dismiss those rumors with a sensible explanation.

What he hadn’t expected was for the man to lean close, invade Ratio’s personal space, and ask, “If I say yes… what’s in it for me?”

And thus signaled the start to an incredibly unconventional partnership between a human doctor and a cunning vampire.

The sun is obscured by thick clouds. The gloom of the sky matches the day’s overall mood. The hospital buzzes with activity, though its patients and doctors have adopted either a frantic or despondent disposition. 

Veritas Ratio pushes through the crowds to the front desk, irate that his aid is late by a total of five minutes and thirty-four seconds.

There he stands, lingering by the entrance. He’s wearing a pair of colorful sunglasses that Ratio assumes cost a fortune, a black, rimmed hat, studded earrings that resemble little drops of blood, and though his clothes are primarily black and white—a white button-up blouse with the first few buttons undone, exposing some of his chest, a black vest, and tight, black pants with a leather strap around one of his thighs—Ratio estimates their worth to be more than all his own possessions combined, to say nothing of the other jewelry he wears. 

Gaudy. Far, far too gaudy.  

Ratio, hands shoved in his pockets, approaches the pallid figure with mild exasperation. “I gave you the route to my office. Yet here you are, lingering outside. Has it not crossed your mind that the situation is quite dire? I could be out there, seeking to prevent further deaths as we speak.” 

Aventurine gestures to the entrance with a lazy grin. “Technically, it’s a residence.”

Ratio gives pause, his brows tightly knitted together. “Pardon?”

Aventurine huffs out a laugh. There’s a flash of teeth—a reminder that this man is dangerous, yet Ratio is as unfazed as the moment he learned of Aventurine’s identity. He takes it all in stride, for he cannot afford to waste time on personal matters such as his whole worldview being turned upside-down. “Goodness. You really are clueless! Let me give you a quick Vampire 101—I can’t enter a building unless I’m invited. So, really, by all accounts…” Aventurine approaches, ghosting his fingertips against Ratio’s tie. Ratio does not waver in the face of this undead’s apparent… thing for getting up in the doctor’s face and touching his attire unprompted. He simply glares, unamused. Aventurine’s eyes meet his. “…It’s your fault.” 

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose. “Very well then. Come in, Aventurine.” 

And in strolls the vampire. Ratio follows behind him with a healthy dose of suspicion as to these baseless claims. He has indeed not read up on anything related to vampires—nothing that could be tied to the real world, at the very least—and found everything to be ridiculous speculation.

Aventurine throws a look over his shoulder. The doctor is deep in thought but nevertheless keeps up the pace. “You look like you’re about to ask me if driving a wooden stake through my heart would kill me, or if garlic would burn my skin.” 

“Insignificant,” comes Ratio’s biting reply. “If you have quirks pertaining to our cooperation, then I will hear of them from you. To engage with nonsensical rumors dulls the mind. Not to mention, you are currently present, and a source of far greater information than anything else I might find.” 

Aventurine raises an eyebrow. “You’re putting an awful lot of faith in me, doctor.” 

“I have little choice. Do not flatter yourself, vampire.” 

“So harsh… you know I could kill you in just a flash, right?” 

“An empty threat. Had you wanted to, you would have already done so,” Ratio reasons. 

Aventurine hums. “So very confident… haha, I see why they picked you as their last resort.” Aventurine falls in step with him, his shoulder brushing against Ratio’s. He notes that even through his clothes, Aventurine is cold.

Little wonder, given his undead status. 

But must he insist on maintaining such a close proximity, with his eyes practically glued to the doctor’s face? Nevertheless, Ratio will not bend to this vampire, thus he straightens his posture and meets his assistant's gaze with his own, unyielding. Aventurine looks mildly surprised but presses on. “Unlike someone, I did my research. You have quite the track record, Doctor Veritas Ratio. Funny, how a man with so many achievements under his belt knows so little about possible threats to his precious human race.”

Ratio arches a brow, vaguely impressed. “So you have. Were this a more appropriate time, I would have quizzed you on your thoughts and understanding of the subjects I covered.” 

“What, to determine if I’m an idiot? Your autobiography almost reads like a rant on idiocy, you know,” Aventurine quips.

Ratio turns a corner. Aventurine follows behind, quick to dodge an incoming stretcher. Impressive reflexes—Ratio gives him that much. “It is a disease of the mind. As a doctor, I merely seek to cure this widespread ailment. However, you cannot explain idiocy to an idiot. But, I believe there is hope yet for those willing to open their eyes and seek answers of their own accord. I simply wish to stimulate dormant intellect. Of course, there are utterly hopeless cases such as—ah, here we are.” Ratio stops mid-lecture, flashing his ID by an interface right by the door to his office. It unlocks and swings open, granting Ratio and Aventurine access.

“I’m surprised, though. Where’s that handsome bust of yours? The one from the pictures?” 

Ratio pushes his glasses further up his nose and sighs before he answers Aventurine’s idiotic query. “I happen to need my senses when treating patients, and if I must remind you again, the current situation commandeers all my efforts.” 

“Even though you’re risking exposure to idiots?” Aventurine hums, and Ratio shuts him down with a glare. Aventurine raises his hands in mock surrender, laughing to himself. “Ahaha, easy. I’m just trying to get a feel for you, doc. You’re so harsh on me, you know? Even though I offered my help, at no cost at all… mm, but it helps that you’re easy on the eyes…” He trails off, lips curling into a smirk as he takes a step closer, looking up at Ratio. He’s close enough that Ratio could have felt his breath—had he needed any oxygen. All he feels from Aventurine is the coldness of his skin, and the utter lack of any bodily functions reacting as they should bring about an instinctive disgust and an almost primal fear.

This man is an enemy of humankind. He could tear Ratio’s throat out in but a mere second. He is a predator by nature and Ratio his prey. 

The doctor shuts such a nonsensical string of thoughts down and wills his body to cooperate. He must do whatever he can, and indeed, Aventurine had accepted Ratio’s request for help. His behaviors are utterly bizarre; instead of asking for anything in return, the vampire had merely shrugged his shoulders and told Ratio that he’ll see. 

Ratio sighs, pushing past Aventurine. “I do not believe this help of yours is without a price. This partnership exists because I do not have the luxury of choosing my options. I assure you, if I did, I would certainly not have sought out the likes of you. ” He gestures to the exam chair. “Sit. I will fetch my supplies.” 

Aventurine hops onto the chair, stretching leisurely. “Hmm. A little too cheap for my tastes, but you get some points for comfort.” Ratio decides to tune him out. Why is he commenting on the material of the chair? Utterly nonsensical. This man is an idiot. Aventurine puts his elbow on his lap and rests his chin on the back of his hand. With a lopsided smirk, he says, “Don’t worry, doctor. I don’t make deals that don’t pay off… So, I hope you don’t disappoint me.” 

Ah. So he is a gambling man, then. That puts his words into perspective. Ratio’s disdain for risk-takers aside, he shakes his head and huffs out a sigh, grabbing the supplies needed to draw Aventurine’s blood. He instructs the vampire the same way he would a human, and Aventurine follows along with surprisingly little questions for how much he appears to enjoy quizzing Ratio on every minor detail. He simply watches as his blood is being taken, the curiosity in his eyes not unlike that of a child seeing something for the first time. 

He’s halfway through collecting Aventurine’s blood samples when the man opens his mouth again. 

“I’m surprised, really. Most people see a flash of fangs, a hint of blood, and put on an Oscar-worthy performance when they realize what I really am. But you, oh, you, doctor, don’t even bat an eyelid. Just indulge me, since I’m willingly giving you my blood.” Aventurine’s smile looks pleasant, but it’s as fake as his demeanor. A mere mask. Ratio simply takes his samples, signifying for the vampire to continue with a single nod of his head. “Why aren’t you scared? Ah, actually, let me rephrase that—I felt your blood pulsing earlier. Your heart racing. Your body is scared, but your mind isn’t. Such a contradictory man… so, why?” 

“Because I cannot afford to be,” replies Ratio without even looking up from Aventurine’s arm. He pulls the syringe out and fills another vacutainer with the vampire’s blood. “Lives are at stake. Perhaps that is of little consequence to you, but my priorities are neither selfish nor immoral. Ah, but I would not expect you to understand the human spirit.” 

A strange look flits through Aventurine’s eyes. It vanishes in a matter of seconds, but there was something genuine there, something buried deep under the surface. It catches Ratio’s intrigue. Aventurine’s voice has a chilly edge when he talks, “Haha, careful, now! You don’t want to get on my bad side already, do you? Especially not after I so selflessly agreed to help you… You’re pretty confident in your assumptions, doctor. A little too confident…” That last part is muttered, not necessarily meant for Ratio’s ears, thus he doesn’t comment on it. It is none of his business.

“What use is there to apply reason to a creature such as yourself? You exist solely to break the human spirit. To drain and kill.” He finally turns to look at Aventurine. “I find your kind to be repulsive. You go against all that I stand for. Your very existence clashes with the collective morals of the human race.” He pauses for a moment, taking in Aventurine’s bemused expression. “Did that sate your curiosity? Now, if you do not mind, I have work to do.” 

Aventurine hums noncommittally in response. His gaze bores into Ratio’s back while the doctor collects his samples and sets to work. Whatever Aventurine thinks of him does not matter to Ratio. His opponent is time itself, and many of the patients have not long to live. 

Besides…

Recalling their conversation from the night prior, Aventurine had insisted that vampires do not possess human emotions—not in the traditional sense. 

Thus it is entirely reasonable for Ratio to draw this conclusion. 

And yet, there was that flicker of something in Aventurine’s eyes the doctor still can’t quite parse. Aventurine is an enigma—a puzzle hidden behind an easygoing demeanor that the doctor would certainly enjoy unraveling, especially given his species and willingness to cooperate, but he hasn’t the time to think about such trivial things.

Besides, above all else, Aventurine is… well. The man certainly has his quirks, and the moment he opens his mouth Ratio feels a headache forming.

The sooner this temporary partnership of theirs comes to a close, the better. He carefully slips the vacutainers into a test tube holder and cleans his supplies.

“Your task has concluded. I will make for the laboratory and inspect the peculiarities of your blood.” He pauses to look up at Aventurine. “Thank you for your cooperation.” His eyes instinctively trail to the man’s arm. The small puncture wound left by the syringe heals on its own. Skin bubbles and sizzles as it repairs itself and Ratio’s disdain must be written all over his face as Aventurine deliberately stretches said arm and flashes the doctor a coy smile.

“Haha, you don’t have to thank me with a look that says get out. I know when I’ve overstayed my welcome.” Aventurine slides out of the chair, rolling his neck. “Oh, but… about those things you promised me.”

Ratio holds up a hand. “Credit should be given where it is due. You were cooperative, though you do not know when to hold your tongue. I find that silence is precious, and if you wish for this… partnership to progress smoothly, I suggest you learn this.” 

Aventurine grins toothily, flashing his fangs. “Oh? Is the human doctor threatening me? You have guts, Ratio, I’ll give you that…” Neither his tone nor words indicate he’ll actually heed Ratio’s words. No, rather, Ratio suspects the man will simply continue to challenge him at every opportunity, so he quickly moves on. 

“As for your compensation, I will be a moment.” Ratio leaves without giving Aventurine a chance to reply. The hospital corridors, though not necessarily empty, provide him with a much-needed moment of silence. His steps slow down—he can hear himself think again.

Alas, time still ticks on. It is with a sigh that he enters the laboratory and heads for the blood bank, collecting two refrigerated bags while storing Aventurine’s samples for later. Given the vampire’s unique qualities, Ratio endeavors to speed the process up ever so slightly.

Despite his innate urge to, he does not linger or bask in his solitude. His duty drags him back to his office where Aventurine has made himself rather at home in Ratio’s desk chair, sifting through the doctor’s belongings.

Ratio’s bottom lip trembles and his head throbs. "Aventurine. What do you think that you are doing?” His voice is eerily calm. A wiser man would sense the hidden anger slumbering beneath, but Aventurine is neither human nor wise.

Entirely unfazed by Ratio’s shift in attitude, he closes one of the drawers and saunters over to the doctor with his hand outstretched and eyes on his prizes. “Entertaining myself, because someone locked me in. Isn’t that just rude? I’m surprised, though. Don’t you people have sentimental little trinkets on your desks? All you have is just… more books. I do like the ducky mug, though. Very cute. Personal design?” 

Ratio shoves the blood bags into Aventurine’s hands and presses his lips tightly together. “Get out.” His word is final. 

Aventurine rolls his eyes. “Well, you’re very welcome. Same time tomorrow?” 

Ratio gives no response, his brain working overtime to prevent himself from doing something completely irrational like attempting to bodily throw a vampire out of his office. 

Aventurine stops by the door. “Are you sure you’re okay with this, though? A vampire, walking around a hospital unsupervised… seems like a recipe for disaster, to me.”

He’s right. Ratio straightens his posture and rights his glasses. He brusquely pushes past Aventurine and into the hallway, not sparing the man even a simple glance. “Follow me.”

Aventurine easily falls in step with him, and again, he’s too close, and his eyes burn where they bore into Ratio’s peripheral vision. He’s challenging Ratio to snap, to yell at him—but for what? 

“Is this entertaining to you?” Ratio blurts in a hiss, unable to bear Aventurine’s scrutiny any longer. 

“Ah, leisure walks through a hospital? Not exactly my kind of vibe, but—”

“You know that is not what I meant.”

Aventurine laughs. “Easy, doctor, you look like you’re going to pop a vein! Now wouldn’t that just make a mess? My self-control is immaculate, but even I have my limits.”

“Then I suggest you answer the question.”

“This makes twice you’ve threatened me in one day! Ratio, you’re getting our roles all reversed. Aren’t I supposed to be the predator?” Another glare from Ratio makes Aventurine shake his head, an exaggerated sigh falling from his lips. “Don’t flatter yourself too much, but yes. You are. A human who doesn’t even know the basics, refuses to be scared, and challenges me? You’re an endless source of entertainment, Ratio.” His face darkens. Ratio feels a chill run down his spine, but he opts to ignore that too. “All I ask is that you stay that way… don’t disappoint me, alright?” And within just a flash, it’s gone again, replaced with Aventurine’s usual easygoing demeanor. He comes to a halt, dragging his fingers up Ratio’s front. “Well, it seems like I’ve arrived at my stop. See you tomorrow, doctor~” He fixes Ratio’s crooked tie for him, and flashes him a wink. 

Ratio considers leaving without a response, but that would equate giving Aventurine the final victory—not to mention, it would be quite petty and unbefitting of a man of his status. “Try to be cordial, this time.”

Aventurine laughs and turns around, waving to Ratio as he exits. Ratio checks his watch. A mere hour of Aventurine’s presence, and he’s already utterly worn out. Oh, how he craves to draw a bath and soak in the warm water with a good book…

Ratio rubs his temples with a sigh. Cravings aside, he has a job to do. One that he values more than his personal indulgences. 

Looking at Aventurine’s back as he slowly recedes from view, Ratio cannot help but wonder what drives him forward.

As if noticing his stare, Aventurine turns around for a moment, locks eyes with the doctor, winks, and continues on his walk home.

Ratio shoves his hands into his pockets and makes his way back to the laboratory. 

To say Aventurine’s blood is special would be a severe understatement.

The reactions and activity are unlike anything Ratio has ever seen. For a mere moment, he even picks one up and though he’s seen Aventurine himself walk through the daylight as if it is nothing, debunking one of the very few myths Ratio is familiar with… when he holds one of the tubes under a UV light, the vial starts to shake as the blood boils. Ratio watches in awe as it goes against the laws of nature and physics themselves by catching on fire, forcing him to drop the tube. It shatters on the ground, but not a drop of blood is left.

Ratio’s mind overflows with questions.

If that’s the case… How is Aventurine able to walk in the sunlight? Has it to do with the blood being outside of his body? He almost considers sampling a piece of garlic to either verify or debunk another myth he knows, but he shamefully has to remind himself he hasn’t the time for that—this is for the future of mankind! 

Internally lecturing himself on his priorities in such a dire situation can wait. He rushes back to the microscope, only to find that the longer the blood is outside of Aventurine’s body…

“It… the activity is receding,” Ratio mutters to himself. “His red blood cells are actively dying.”  

He scrambles to get to work properly, pressed for time.

He works well into the night, utterly exhausted when the clock strikes two. But there is still a little of Aventurine’s blood left, so if he could just… 

His glasses slip down his face. Ratio’s fatigue catches up with him, taking a toll on his mind.

He’s leaning over without realizing it.

He can’t fall asleep. Not now! 

Not…

…If having to partner up with Aventurine again the following day isn't enough already, the stress on his muscles from falling asleep in the lab plus the lack of proper rest will make for a very uncomfortable day indeed.

Chapter Text

Veritas Ratio blinks his eyes open with a groan.

Instead of his pillow, his head lays on a cold, hard surface.

He suddenly jolts awake, memories of the night prior flooding through him. He rubs his forehead with a groan, but his first instinct is to look at the samples.

Indeed, it’s just as he’s feared—all of them are gone. Vaporized. He groans as he stands, rolling his shoulders. He fixes his glasses and when the strain on his muscles becomes evident as he tries to look around, he applies a quick self-massage technique that will have to do for now.

Much to his own shame, he has to freshen up in a nearby restroom, reserved only for hospital staff. The dark circles under his eyes remain, but his clothes and hair are in order. After righting his laurel hair clip, Ratio leaves the restroom and goes straight for one of the break rooms, making himself a strong cup of coffee before he heads to his office.

…He nearly drops his mug upon entering.

There Aventurine sits in his chair just like the day prior, his legs up on Ratio’s desk while he tosses a chip of sorts up in the air. Noticing Ratio’s presence, the vampire swings his legs over the edges and plants his feet back on the ground, elbows now on the wooden surface as he regards the doctor with a smirk. 

“Why are you here?” Ratio asks, checking the clock. It’s still morning—hours before the time they agreed on. For a brief moment, he wonders if vampires cannot read clocks, but the idea is so ridiculous he scoffs and pushes it out of his head.

“You didn’t specify a time for today specifically, so I thought, might as well let myself in. After all, we have a productive day ahead don’t we, doctor?” Aventurine croons, and the sound of his voice is an assault on Ratio’s senses.

He takes a sip of his coffee, hiding the way his lips quirk downwards with his cup. 

Aventurine again fills Ratio’s precious silence with meaningless babble. It appears moments of peace, few and far between, are beyond him, now, revoked the moment he’d asked Aventurine for his aid. “I’m surprised, though. Your books really stress the importance of a proper day and night rhythm, but you look like you’ve gone and thrown it all off!” Aventurine takes a jab at Ratio. The doctor scowls when his hypocrisy is called into question, sighing loudly.

“You truly do not grasp how dire the situation is, do you? Then it is useless for me to try and explain it to you.” 

“Just like how you can’t explain idiocy to an idiot? Haha, don’t worry. I understand your urgency. You have your precious humankind to save, don’t you? Veritas Ratio, the genius doctor who is going to save humanity. Oh, they speak so highly of you. It’s fascinating, just how much gossip I can find on you online.” 

Genius doctor. Ratio’s throat tightens at the title and if his mood weren’t foul before, it certainly is now. “Ah, so you occupy your free time perusing the net for utterly meaningless purposes. How very… novel.” He rounds his desk and stares Aventurine down. Aventurine cocks a brow at him, challenging him to speak.

When Ratio’s grasp nearly threatens to crush his paper cup of coffee, Aventurine huffs out a laugh and stands up. “Alright, alright. I’ll get out. Ah, but a word of advice? You’re way too easy to tease.”

Ratio’s response is another glare. Aventurine vacates his chair, allowing Ratio to take his spot. There’s hardly an indicator as to Aventurine’s presence previously—just the dip in the cushion. “In any case,” Ratio begins, tone brooking no room for interruptions, but he doubts Aventurine would pay any heed to that. “Your blood contains rather… unique properties. Further study is required, therefore I am proposing we extend our partnership.”

“Oh? Why, how flattering! I thought you were going to throw me into the sun at the first chance you got.”

Ratio hums, neither confirming nor denying. However, as Aventurine brought up the sun himself, Ratio is saved some time. “Hm. Funny that you should mention that. When exposed to UV light, your blood caught fire. Care to explain how you yourself walked out without as much as an ember?”

Aventurine raises his brows and breaks out into a fit of laughter. “You… you used my blood for that? Ratio, I thought you had a human race to save! Oh, heavens, you—ahaha, were you debunking rumors? Really? What are you going to do next, throw it at garlic?” A grin lingers on his face, his fangs poking out past his lips. 

Ratio feels his ears redden. He does not mention that the thought had indeed crossed his mind—he would not give Aventurine the satisfaction. “To answer a question with another, utterly ridiculous question…” He pinches the bridge of his nose, taking a deep breath. Aventurine is already getting under his skin. “You are insufferable. Has anyone ever told you that? In case they have not, I will endeavor to reiterate that over and over again.”

Aventurine snorts. “Haha, don’t worry, you’re not the first. But, to ensure our cooperation goes smoothly… I can walk in the sun just fine. Ah, it’s not common for vampires, though. The easiest way to kill one is to just shine that fancy light of yours on them. It won’t work on me, but you never know who you’ll find in the night…”

Ratio palms his chin. “And, pray tell, whyever are you unscathed?”

“Hmm… tempting, but I won’t answer just yet. This is just day two of our partnership, it’d be boring to reveal all my cards already,” Aventurine replies.

“…Forget I asked.” Ratio finishes his coffee, tossing the paper cup at the trash can in the corner. Something glimmering on his desk catches his attention and he looks down. It’s the chip Aventurine had been playing with prior. He pushes it his way. “You seem to have forgotten something.”

“Or maybe I left it there on purpose. Don’t you want to know more about me?”

“About your misguided hobbies? Not particularly, but if you insist on being a bother about it, fine, I will bite. Then, I already had my suspicions, but are you a gambling man, Aventurine?”

“Ah, I’m so glad you asked!” Aventurine’s cheery tone is laden with sarcasm. He performs a sleight of hand with the chip and pockets it again. Ratio doesn’t look impressed. Aventurine’s lip curls into a pout, exposing his fangs again. Ratio doesn’t know what to make of that expression, only that he’s mildly disturbed. “I do enjoy a good game of chance. The higher the stakes, the better the thrill. I told you before, didn’t I? I don’t do emotions in the conventional way, so a gamble, where the stakes could cost my entire fortune, or perhaps my life? Now that gets my blood pumping.” 

“Have you ever considered that you are simply insane?” Ratio remarks dryly.

“You think so highly of me.”

“My opinion of you worsens with every word that falls from your mouth.”

“Trust me, your company is just as pleasant.”

“Ah, so we do have something in common,” Ratio’s quip puts an end to their banter. 

Aventurine’s smile is easy, but there’s something slightly different about it. “You know,” he begins in a hum, and Ratio braces himself for another headache. “You’re not too bad, doc. Sure, you’re a pretentious asshole, but… like I said, you’re very easy on the eyes, and you’re able to hold a conversation without screaming in terror! Either you’re incredibly stupid, or very impressive. I’m still undecided.” 

The headache does not come. Ratio frowns instead. Aventurine’s words and tone indicate that he almost… longs for an equal partnership? There’s a twinge of loneliness to his tone that does not suit his character. 

He must be imagining things.

Then again, Ratio knows how isolating it is when you are either put on a pedestal or, in Aventurine’s case, feared. How fascinating. He had not expected such an… an emotion, to settle on a simpler term, to cross the mind of a vampire.

Either way, Ratio does not rise to Aventurine’s taunt. There are more important matters to attend to than juvenilely bickering with Aventurine or indulging his scholarly interests in that same vampire’s mental and physical state. He fears Aventurine might be correct in one aspect—Ratio is far too easy to work up.

Declaring that he will not fall for the vampire’s taunts again, Ratio straightens his back and looks at Aventurine. “I have no interest in chasing after speculations, but I do have a theory.”

Aventurine quirks a brow. “What, about whether I find you impressive or stupid?”

Ratio pointedly ignores him. He pretends he’s talking to the opposing wall instead. A far more pleasant conversationalist as it doesn’t interrupt him at every turn and tries to twist the meaning behind his words into something utterly ridiculous. “Your… species resembles the dead more than the living. It appears your body, through whatever means, is still capable of storing and filtering blood. But what would happen if one were to take away that same blood from its container? Without your unique biology, it seems to revert to its previous state. That is to say, dead—however, that does not answer the question as to why it simply ceases to be.”

“Woah. You’re looking at me with eyes that say you want to dissect me.” Aventurine sounds mildly perturbed. “ Graciously ignoring the fact that you called me a container, I’ll bite. Haha, not literally, of course, unless—”

“ Aventurine.”

Aventurine snorts. “Got it, time is of the essence, know when to shut up… honestly, doc, I haven’t really thought about it. My blood. Or how I even exist in the first place. Your guess is as good as mine. Hmm, no. Your guess is better than mine, because I never bothered trying to find out in the first place.” The underlying twinge of bitterness to Aventurine’s voice tries to seek shelter behind his easy smile but Ratio picks up on it regardless.

Ratio stands from his desk and motions further into his office. He took the liberty of changing the paper towels on the exam chair and goes to grab his supplies while Aventurine gets settled. “Hm. I might be mistaken—and I rarely am—but you do not sound particularly pleased with your…” Ratio turns around, dragging his gaze up and then down Aventurine’s body. “…Peculiarities.”

Aventurine waves a dismissive hand. “Oh, what’s not to love? Eternal life, strength and speed enough to crush a human, people who bend to my will simply because I exist… isn’t that the life.”

“You don’t sound particularly interested,” Ratio points out without looking at Aventurine, putting on a pair of gloves. He feels Aventurine’s eyes bore into his back, calculating.

“Hmm? Are you saying you know me, doctor?” Of course Aventurine has to flip the script with that annoyingly smug edge to his voice. He quickly shifts away from the prior subject and returns to taunting Ratio while stroking his own ego—and yet, that brief exchange had given Ratio more insight into Aventurine than any other interaction prior and his feelings boil down to a single thought: Aventurine is utterly fascinating. A contradictory mess of a creature masquerading as a human who hides his true intent and emotions behind an expertly cultivated mask. “If you want to get to know me, it’s only fair I get to ask you questions too, right? A little game of truths, or, maybe we should call it a heart-to-heart?”

Ratio sighs.

Aventurine is as fascinating as he is annoying. 

“Remain still. I cannot stop you from running your mouth, but I ask you to choose your questions carefully.” He has Aventurine clench his fist and stretch his arm, grabbing the vampire’s wrist as he slowly pinpoints a vein and pushes the syringe in.

“Haha, no stupid questions, got it. Oh, but didn’t you say there’s no such thing as stupid questions, just stupid conclusions? After all, questions are—”

“The first step towards educating oneself and enriching the mind,” Ratio finishes for him. 

Aventurine laughs. He looks on as his blood flows through a tube. “Haha, I wouldn’t be surprised if you reread your own books. People claim you have quite the ego, you know.”

“I care not for what the public perception of me might be,” Ratio answers flatly. “Such trivial matters get in the way of one’s pursuit for knowledge. Humans might be biased by nature, but entertaining and engaging in thoughts born out of prejudice rather than coming to your own conclusions is something I utterly detest.”

Aventurine hums. “You’re missing out. There’s a whole discussion on whether or not you’re a virgin, or a dilf. You’ve garnered quite the reputation.” 

Ratio narrows his eyes, feeling heat creep to his face. Of course that is what Aventurine would be curious about.

…It raises a question. But it has to wait, as… “Absolute nonsense. That is not even a real word.”

“It’s an acronym,” Aventurine says, “‘Dad I’d Like to Fuck’.”

Ratio opens his mouth, and then closes it again.

“That—that is… that is ridiculous! Are they fools? I do not have children, nor am I—” He trails off, drawing a deep breath. He must remain focused, his hand steady. 

Aventurine snickers. “I’m just the messenger. Honestly, I had no idea what it meant myself, but pictures of your face have very… interesting discussions surrounding it. And apparently, you bodily threw a man trying to bribe you into letting him pass out of your lecture hall. Impressive!”

That… is not entirely untrue. Ratio holds his tongue and sets his jaw, grinding his teeth. It is taking every ounce of control he has not to unleash a verbal assault on Aventurine. He is better than that.

He should be better than that.

His breathing becomes strained.

“Alright, alright. I’ll stop with the rumors. Sheesh, you’re way too uptight about this stuff. Ah, but I do have an actual question, by your standards. Your mind isn’t afraid of me, but what about your body? You give me these dirty looks, but your heartbeat increases and your blood pressure almost spikes, sometimes. But you still don’t back down.”

Ratio pauses as he fills another vacutainer. Now there is a question worth his attention. He hums in thought, finally deigning to look at Aventurine. “Indeed. My senses are screaming at me to run and hide. Such is the natural instinct of prey when faced with a predator they have no chance of defeating, but I will not let it impede my progress. Lest you think of me as a suicidal maniac, I assure you, I am not. I do not make a habit out of tempting fate, but I do not expect a gambler such as yourself to understand. However, I have my theories about you. I would be a fool to let my guard down completely, but I have reasons to believe you are not after my life, nor have the interest to kill.”

Aventurine looks at him strangely. Ratio sees him frown for the first time before he schools his expression, tilting his head in a display of curiosity. “So you’re thinking about me, then? I’m flattered, Ratio.”

“You are missing the point entirely,” Ratio hisses, having to put the vacutainer he was holding down for a moment as his fist shakes with barely contained irritation. “And on purpose, no less.”

Aventurine shrugs dismissively. “Maybe. What do you care, Ratio?”

“I don’t,” Ratio’s reply is quick, biting. “My fascination with you is simply the byproduct of a researcher’s misguided curiosity.” 

Aventurine hums, a cryptic smile curling his lips as he watches Ratio collect the samples and organize them. 

“Today, I wish to test the durability of your blood when kept outside of your body. I will turn on a timer when you leave, and see for myself how long it takes for it to vaporize completely after you have left. I need to calculate the window of opportunity and not squander it.”

“So, you’re already throwing me out? That’s it for today?” Aventurine asks, painting the picture of a petulant child with that look in his eyes. “You’re so mean, Ratio. I even went out of my way to get here early…” 

Ratio ignores his attempt at provoking pity. “I will call on you to return once the samples have gone.” 

“Ahaha, sure, but how are you going to do that? Shout from the rooftops? My hearing is incredible, but it’s not that good. Unless, you’re asking for my number? Ratio, you flirt!” 

Ratio throws him a flat look.

Aventurine whips out his phone with a laugh. “Okay, I got it. Here, let me give you mine, first.” 

“How very gentlemanly of you,” Ratio remarks dryly. Aventurine looks at him for a moment longer and snickers. 

“I didn’t know you had a sense of humor,” he comments as Ratio registers his number. 

“There is much you don’t know about me. I advise you to steer clear of baseless assumptions.” 

“It’s more of an observation, really. You haven’t smiled even once,” Aventurine points out. “Now give me yours.” 

Ratio opts to ignore the comment about him smiling. It would be useless to try and tell Aventurine that there is currently a crisis going on that could wipe out ten percent of humanity, as it doesn’t appear to get through his thick skull. “No need. You will have my number when I text you.” 

“But how will you know I got home safe?” Aventurine asks. Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose.

“Go home, Aventurine. I have no further need of you.” 

Something dark flickers through Aventurine’s eyes. They widen a fraction and his bottom lip trembles. He has never seen such pure anger fade so quickly, but Aventurine masks it as easily as he does everything else—only, a second too late. 

Ratio frowns. Was there something he said? 

Aventurine might have schooled his expression but he isn’t smiling anymore. “Fine. Ah, you don’t have to walk me out. I didn’t maul anyone when I got here, and really, I’m not in the mood to create a scene, so try to give me the benefit of the doubt here, Ratio.” His tone is as flat and hollow as the look in his eyes.

Ratio wants to point it it was Aventurine who had coaxed Ratio into walking him to the exit but for whatever reason, he holds his tongue. He just nods, and gestures to the door. “I will see you later.” 

“Mmhm,” Aventurine shoves a hand in his pocket, giving Ratio a wave as he walks towards the door. “You sure will, Ratio.” 

Contempt. Contempt is what Aventurine laces his syllables with—but only the mention of Ratio’s name. 

When the door clicks shut behind him, Ratio finally allows himself to breathe again. Fear had held his heart in its clutches at the drastic switch in Aventurine’s demeanor. He knew partnering with a vampire could spell his doom one day, but it’s far too soon for that.

Shaking those thoughts out of his head, Ratio collects his samples and prepares himself for another day of rigorous work.

It is a little past five when Ratio texts Aventurine.

Veritas Ratio : Aventurine. The samples have expired. Return at your earliest convenience. 

- Doctor Veritas Ratio.

The reply is almost instant.

Aventurine : I think you have the wrong number. 

Veritas Ratio : Aventurine. I will not repeat myself. Time is of the essence.

- Doctor Veritas Ratio.

Aventurine : Haha, okay, okay. I know it’s you, Ratio. You don’t have to sign your messages. I’m already on my way.

Veritas Ratio : Give me an ETA.

Aventurine : Do you want me to get you something on my way there?

Veritas Ratio : Estimated time of arrival.

Aventurine : Well, you learn something new every day! 

Aventurine : Five minutes.

Veritas Ratio : Alright. 

Aventurine : 👍.

Aventurine : By the way, I did get home safe. Thank you for asking.

With a sigh, Ratio pockets his phone. Giving Aventurine access to his number will undoubtedly prove to be a mistake in the long run, regardless of any conveniences it might bring with it. With Aventurine, the cons outweigh the pros, so to speak. 

Although, he is not terrible to work with. Ratio will give him that. No, Aventurine has been rather cooperative, and when he arrives at Ratio’s office at the five minute mark, he proves again to be surprisingly reliable.

“Impressive. I had not actually expected you to arrive in time. I presume you live close?” Ratio motions for Aventurine to follow him to the lab. 

Aventurine feigns shock with a gasp. “First you try to get my number, and now my address? Ratio, if you want to get in my pants, just say so! For a handsome man such as yourself, I am always willing to clear up my schedule.”

A few residents turn their heads at Aventurine’s louder volume. Ratio grinds his jaw and grabs the gambler by the sleeve, all but hauling him through the halls. “Be quiet,” he hisses, ignoring the way his cheeks heat up out of embarrassment and Aventurine’s following cackle.

“I don’t live that close, really. It’s too dreary here, for my taste. Besides, haven’t you been to my place already? Or was it not worth remembering? Maybe I should invite you over again,” Aventurine muses. Ratio remembers that, indeed, he’s been to Aventurine’s ludicrously expensive penthouse and in his estimates, it would take far over a mere five minutes to get to the hospital.

Had Aventurine lingered since Ratio dismissed him? Does he possess some innate abilities that either slow down time or advanced reflexes? Trifling matters Ratio should not give any thought to, and yet, he finds himself wondering regardless, his gaze drifting to stare at Aventurine’s side profile for a moment too long.

He’s caught in the vampire’s peripheral vision, a twinkle of mischievous to those usually so dull and lifeless eyes setting them alight. The corner of his lip twitches up, and Ratio looks ahead. They arrive at the lab before Aventurine has the chance to get on his nerves for the umpteenth time that day. “Here we are.” 

“Mm. I can see that, thank you. Pretty impressive. And very empty. Don’t your colleagues like working with you, doc?” 

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose. “I happen to cultivate an amiable work environment, however, none of that is of any concern to you.” 

Aventurine draws his own conclusion with a nod. “You’re just antisocial. Got it.”

Ratio tosses him a bag, partially to throw him off-balance and to shut him up. Neither work, and Aventurine shows that he does indeed have some form of heightened reflexes as he catches it without even looking at Ratio. “Careful! If I didn’t have a delicate touch, you’d have gotten blood all over me. Now wouldn’t that have made a mess…” Aventurine clicks his tongue, tutting. “Got any sharp objects around here? Sinking my teeth into it is a little too barbaric for my taste.” 

Ratio quirks a brow. “Whatever for?” If Aventurine wanted to inflict harm upon him, he wouldn’t even need anything—ah. Ratio’s brain catches on as Aventurine holds up the blood bag, flashing the doctor a smile. Ratio’s expression twists into one of dismay. “No. Absolutely not. I forbid you from… feeding in my laboratory.” 

“Ahaha, but I’m so hungry. Come on, Ratio…” Aventurine takes a step closer, his eyes fixed on Ratio’s exposed neck. He ghosts his fingertips against the skin, and were he not a predator tracing a vein with the tip of a nail, it almost borders on being sensual. “It’s either this, or… well, I have a live, handsome man right in front of me.” 

Ratio takes a deep breath and bats Aventurine’s hand away. “Fine,” he relents, rummaging around and hands Aventurine a scalpel. “Do not make a mess. Keep any unnecessary noise to yourself. I neither want to hear nor see it.” 

Aventurine snorts. “Why thank you, you’re so considerate.” 

He turns his back on Ratio, humming to himself as he cuts a hole in the bag and Ratio’s curiosity wins over his disgust because he’s taking a peek and—indeed, Aventurine is efficient with his consumption.

He drinks as if he’s hasn’t had a proper meal for days. 

Or perhaps, that is his natural reaction to blood. 

Aventurine’s eyes glaze over, almost intense. He’s struggling to withhold his noises, Ratio realizes, hearing odd sounds bubble up in his throat and die back down. He moans, once, gulping down a sizable amount of blood and his pupils dilate, eyes rolling back.

Fascinating.

Ratio wonders if he derives pleasure from this. Certainly, the doctor is not versed in sexual matters, but he’s no stranger to the objective facts about intercourse and reactions related to arousal. 

If going by a purely academic description… Aventurine’s behavior matches up. His cheeks, usually devoid of any color at all, turn a light red. Is that because of the blood? Does it instill life back into his undead body?

Ratio ruminates over these questions for far too long. He doesn’t even realize that Aventurine has finished, and caught on to Ratio’s staring. “You know,” he begins, snapping Ratio out of his thoughts. He licks his lips clean, droplets of blood dripping from his fangs and trickling down his chin. He wipes it away before it can make a mess of either his clothes or the floor. “For someone who is so disgusted by me, you’re ogling me an awful lot. You’re a bit of a hypocrite, aren’t you?” Again, there’s that finger pressed against his chest, but it moves up, and Aventurine hooks it under Ratio’s chin, tilting his head down to meet his gaze. “ Doctor.” 

“Hmph. Do not flatter yourself so, gambler. I am a researcher. To understand that which was previously undocumented by man is merely a hobby of mine.” 

“Oh? Moved on from vampire, have we? Haha, I guess that would sound a little strange in public.” The blush fades from Aventurine’s cheeks. Ratio almost finds it a pity. That brief flash of something alive suited him. Aventurine, despite the headaches he brings, is, again, objectively speaking, attractive. Were it not for the utter nonsense he spouts, he might actually make for pleasant company.

Ratio blinks.

He jerks away from Aventurine’s touch.

He’s exhausted. He should not let his mind wander too far. He has a job to do! He hears Aventurine laugh but tunes out the sound of his voice, putting a hand on his forehead and draws a deep breath before he turns around once more. He ignores the heat that has risen to his face, hoping that it is not too obvious.

“To business, Aventurine. We are wasting time as we speak.” 

“Ah, so he’s not allergic to my name! You had me worried there, you know.” Aventurine tucks a hand into his pocket and saunters over to Ratio’s position as the doctor gathers his notes. 

As Ratio starts his explanation, Aventurine interjects with the occasional question or remark—however, unlike usual, they’re born out of curiosity and speculation rather than a desire to taunt or get a rise out of Ratio. They fall into an almost comfortable rhythm, bouncing off each other surprisingly well. 

Though they are unable to reach a conclusion, a few interesting theories arose. Aventurine suggested that, given how the body of the dead rise again, the blood within is what keeps them alive, but to take even a fraction of that away would render it useless. For good measure, Ratio took some more samples and put some in the fridge and others in the freezer to check on the day after.

When they finish up, Ratio is the first to speak.

“I must give you credit where it is due.” He clearly draws Aventurine’s attention with those words. Aventurine pops his back with a groan and tilts his head in curiosity. “You have proven yourself to be decently intelligent. Why, I hardly thought you capable of anything other than ceaselessly spouting aggravating nonsense.” 

Aventurine narrows his eyes. “I really don’t know if you’re giving me a compliment or insulting me here.”

“I was merely stating my observations. Take that as you will.” 

“And here I thought you weren’t being an arrogant bastard for once, but you just have to go and prove me wrong, don’t you? I’m going home. Have a good night, Ratio. Try not to fall asleep at your desk this time, okay? You look pitiful.” And with that, Aventurine is out the door.

Disregarding the vampire’s words, Ratio gathers his notes and returns to his office.

…

He hardly gets through the first stack before his head hits the wooden surface. His laptop illuminates his exhausted face, his cheek pressed against a set of keys that embed themselves into the digital writeup.

Ratio rouses to a strong, bitter odor. He groans as he tries to blink the sleep from his eyes, only for his fingers to push against his glasses. Had he not taken them off when he…?

Ah.

No, his train of thought is entirely wrong. He hadn’t gone home. 

He had made it as far as his office, attempted to digitize his notes, and succumbed to exhaustion. With a heavy sigh, Ratio pushes himself to sit up, and nearly flinches back when something is dangled in his face.

“Good morning. I made coffee.”

“...You… Why are you here?” 

“Mighty sense of deja vu, isn’t it?” Aventurine laughs. Unlike Ratio, he looks refreshed and ready for the day ahead. Ratio vaguely wonders whether creatures like him even need rest, but he cares not to ask. He simply takes the offered coffee, brings it to his lips and takes a sip.

…Only to immediately spit it back out.

His eyes widen and he glares at Aventurine. “You— you call this coffee?!” 

Aventurine gives him a rueful smile. “Don’t look at me like I tried to poison you! I don’t have very active tastebuds, or a sense of smell.” 

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose. “We have a machine that does these tasks for you. Never try to brew a pot of coffee again.” 

“Ah, so that’s what it was?” Aventurine hums absent-mindedly.

It strikes Ratio then.

How old is Aventurine? Was he... made into what he is today? Is he frozen in a state of eternal youth?

Though his appearance suggests he is younger than Ratio, he could very well be centuries older. 

Ratio deigns not to ask. He is not one to pry into the personal affairs of others, heedless of scientific curiosity. In this case, it is misplaced, and frankly impolite.

He takes off his glasses and sits back in his chair, rubbing the bridge of his nose. Aventurine says nothing, but Ratio feels the gambler’s gaze on him. “Are you expecting me to congratulate you for being right?” he asks, “If that is what you are after, then go ahead, gloat. You must think you deserve it.” 

“Oof, easy, doc! I do have an ego, you know. You’re making it feel pretty fragile.” 

“You are a headache. I find it troubling to deal with you this early on in the day.” Ratio holds up a hand when Aventurine narrows his eyes. “...But, if you truly acted out of concern for my wellbeing, then, I believe I must convey my gratitude. So thank you, Aventurine.” 

Aventurine appears stunned. He opens his mouth only to close it again, looking at Ratio as if he’s speaking a different language entirely.

Ratio sighs. “Try not to let it get to your head.” 

“What, you, the prestigious Veritas Ratio, thanking me? I’d never!” 

“Doctor. Doctor Veritas Ratio.” 

“Of course, doctor.” He offers Ratio a hand. “Now, can our miracle doctor get up by himself? Ah, actually.” He drops his hand and motions to Ratio’s laptop. “I think you have some pages to delete. You kind of fell asleep with your head on the keyboard. They’re imprinted in your skin. You look ridiculous,” Aventurine points out with a soft laugh, cupping Ratio’s face. The coldness of his skin starts Ratio awake, and he finds himself not entirely minding as Aventurine traces the outlines of the keys on Ratio’s cheek. It helps wake him up, and slowly brings him back to his senses.

Seeing that he has over a hundred pages consisting of a nonsensical string of the same letters repeated over and over again, Ratio sighs heavily.

“Indeed I do.” 

“Well, I did my one good deed of the day, so I’m off. I’ll be back at our usual time. But if you feel lonely, text me.” 

Ratio doesn’t even look at him as he walks out the door or question what their ‘usual time’ entails. “I will message you if I require your services, no sooner.” 

Aventurine finally leaves his office. The coffee is still on his desk, and though Ratio has no intentions of drinking it… he leaves it there as he sets to work.

It serves as a lingering reminder of Aventurine’s weirdly misplaced kindness. That a vampire such as him could be considerate of others, even if he might have ulterior motives.

Oh, had the circumstances been different… The doctor would have proposed a study on Aventurine himself. Alas, his dedication drags his focus back to his work, and once he finishes up on his laptop, he makes for the lab to check on the samples. 

Chapter Text

To his surprise, the samples stored in the freezer had yet to expire. He calls on Aventurine, whose whines about immediately being dragged back to ‘work’ he tunes out. The sample reacts to his presence, melting through the ice in a matter of seconds before it settles in the tube.

Astounding.

Ratio proposes the idea that Aventurine’s blood simply needs a living container—or one adjacent. Ratio decides to take some samples of his own blood, mixing it together with Aventurine’s.

Bizarrely, the liquid does not mix, no, the cells, they… appear to be fighting for dominance? Ratio’s blood cells are destroyed and remade at a remarkably fast pace, completely overtaken by what once was Aventurine’s blood.

He diligently documents his findings, feeling that he is one step closer to creating the cure. If he were to inject Aventurine’s blood into an active bloodstream… would it dominate? Would it overwrite the weaker cells of a human, and repair them after?

He needs to test it. But he cannot, in good faith, experiment on actual patients. The mere thought of it makes his skin crawl. Thus Ratio decides he is a more suitable candidate in his moment of desperation, but first…

First, he’ll have to see that if mixed with another’s blood, the samples might just stay alive. As it was Ratio’s blood prior, perhaps the doctor’s proximity would let it remain active?

So engrossed in his research is he that he loses track of the passage of time—and Aventurine’s departure falls on deaf ears. His phone buzzes and pings several times, but he pays it no heed.

Not until someone has the audacity to message him at one second intervals, forcing Ratio to remove his gloves and fish his phone out of his pockets.

You have thirty unread messages.

And the sender is the same for all of them.

Aventurine. 

Ratio sighs, only opting to open the latest message. If he had anything truly important to say, then he would have called, or otherwise.

Aventurine : You in your office? I got you a little something.

Aventurine : Hello? Ratio? You’ve been ignoring me all day. Pretty rude, you know. If I didn’t know better, I’d have assumed you’re ghosting me!

Aventurine : Ratio~

Aventurine : Ratio.

Aventurine : Ratio. Office. Now.

Aventurine : 🥺? 

Aventurine : Hey, you’re finally reading my messages. Are you OMW?

Veritas Ratio : Your usage of the term is incorrect, but I am indeed on my way. 

Aventurine : Well, forgive me for not being up to date on your silly internet talk. You’re surprisingly in the know, though. 

Veritas Ratio : My students consist primarily of young adults. I assure you, my understanding of something as crude as slang is entirely against my will.

Aventurine : Wow! I have no idea what you just said. Hey, Ratio, teach me some of this slang?

Veritas Ratio : Absolutely not. 

Aventurine : Okay, fine, I’ll look it up myself.

A minute passes before his phone chimes again.

Aventurine : OMW. BRB. GTG.

Ratio’s finger hovers over the block button. Against his better judgment, he decides against it and puts his phone on silent as he enters his office and waits for Aventurine’s impending arrival.

That gambler better had something important to share, taking Ratio away from his research.

In the meantime… he fetches his notes, digitizing the results of his experiments. 

Aventurine waltzes into his office, holding up a bag. When Ratio doesn’t respond to or acknowledge his presence, he sets it down on the desk with a dramatic flair. “Your diligence and commitment are inspiring, but I got you a little something.”

“I can see that, yes. Any particular reason?” Ratio doesn’t miss a beat. Aventurine slides the plastic bag over to him and Ratio feels the scent of something fairly pleasant assault his olfactory senses, making his stomach growl.

Ah.

Aventurine grins, assured in his victory over a quarrel that was over before it could have happened. “You’ve been staying cooped up in here all day, living on, what, coffee? So I spiced things up for you. You’re welcome. Ah, I don’t exactly remember what it is, though. All human food tastes the same to me.”

Ratio looks at the wall-mounted clock and heaves a sigh. He takes off his glasses, rubbing his forehead.

It is well past 8 PM, and indeed, he hasn’t eaten since an incredibly meager breakfast consisting of fruits and dairy this very morning. He eyes the bag with suspicion, but ultimately decides to unpackage the meal. It’s takeout, but not the cheap kind. 

Aventurine had gotten him different containers from different restaurants. There are a few salad-based dishes in there as well, and when Ratio looks up from the bag, Aventurine holds a cup of water in front of him. 

Ratio hangs his head in defeat and nods. “I suppose I am overdue for a break.”

“Great!” Aventurine claps his hands, hoisting himself up to sit on Ratio’s desk. 

After a moment, Ratio puts his utensils down to look at Aventurine. “As polite of a gesture as this is, I cannot help but wonder about your ulterior motives.”

Aventurine’s expression takes on the form of faux offense before he breaks into a laugh and shakes his head. “I’m not concocting any schemes, if that’s what you’re worried about. Maybe I’m just invested in this research of yours, who knows? I doubt there’s anyone as willing as you to work with a vampire, so, if you succumbed to starvation, that’d put me back, what, decades?”

Ratio hums. Aventurine does have a point. “Ah, so you are capable of applying general reasoning to your thought process. Truly fascinating. Indeed, my colleagues would not be so eager to work with you. Neither am I, but current circumstances call for our cooperative partnership.” 

Aventurine makes a face. “You could’ve left out that last part. Do you have to insult me with everything you say? It’s almost hurtful.”

“My aim is not to insult, but interpret it however you wish. It is of no consequence to me.” Ratio returns to his food. No, he’s merely being honest. He does not skirt around the truth—and why should he? An utter waste of time and resources such as the voice.

When he finishes eating, Ratio feels marginally better. The quality of the food was not bad—far from it, actually. He ruminates on it for a moment before he decides that Aventurine is due a compliment for his choices. “You have my gratitude. Time had gotten away from me. Were it not for you, I would have stooped as low as to consider instant food yet again.” 

“Oh, don’t mention it,” Aventurine says in a tone that’s far too pleased with himself and tells him that Ratio absolutely should have mentioned it. He rests his chin on the back of his hand, his curious disposition indicating that he is about to ask a question. Ratio nods for him to speak. “So, where do you even live? Aside from your office.”

Of course that’s what he wants to know. Ratio chooses his answer carefully. “I commute for about two hours.”

Aventurine hums. “You should come to my house.”

“Pardon?”

Aventurine shrugs at Ratio’s bewilderment and goes on to explain, “It’s closer, and I could always call on professional chefs to serve you a meal. Ah, and I have a pretty cozy bed, but I’m not really in the habit of using it.”

Ratio gives him a flat look. “I am not staying at your house. Do you think me stupid? Oblivious as to your intent?”

“What, that I want to sleep with you?”

“No, you— what?!” Ratio’s surprise is so loud on his face that Aventurine bursts into a fit of laughter.

“I’m kidding. Only partially though, not to discredit your appearance. Oh, you should see your face, doctor! You’ve turned completely red. Haha, don’t worry, the reason is much simpler, but I’ll leave that up to you to figure out.” There’s a challenge in his eyes. “And no, it’s not to drain your blood. I have stakes in this little cooperation of ours now, believe it or not. And I always go all in.”

Ratio heaves a sigh and pinches the bridge of his nose. “What could you possibly stand to gain from this?”

Aventurine smiles cryptically. “That’s for me to know, and for you to figure out. But, if you’re not convinced… let me propose a wager. If, dear doctor, you fall asleep at your desk again today, then tomorrow you’re coming to my place to eat. After that, rent yourself a room. Don’t worry about me coming in to suck you dry at night, I can’t enter without permission, remember?”

Ratio opens his mouth to shut Aventurine down, but Aventurine presses his index finger against Ratio’s lips.

“Ratio. Do I have to cite your own autobiography at you? Have you grown into that much of a hypocrite, or were you just pretending from the get-go? If not, then you’re going against your own principles. I find it hard to believe a hospital has baths for you to… ah, how do you put it? Clean your body and mind? Can you really keep working like this, with your senses dulled?”

Ratio draws a deep breath. Damn it all, Aventurine has a point. He is right in calling out Ratio’s hypocrisy. Ratio’s rational mind screams at him to reject Aventurine’s offer, but then again… his mind is hardly rational as it is.

He needs a moment to unwind and most importantly of all, take the bath he so desperately craves.

It is a lapse in judgment. He will regret it later—of that he is certain.

And yet…

“Fine,” he concedes, glowering at Aventurine. “ Fine. I accept your wager, gambler.” 

Aventurine smiles triumphantly. “Great! I’ll get the house in order, then. I wouldn’t want my prestigious colleague to see the messes I leave behind…”

Ratio’s imagination turns morbid. He thinks of corpses drained of their blood scattered around the premises. And yet, when he looks at Aventurine, he finds that hard to imagine.

“Keep yourself in check. You have not won yet.”

“Oh, but I will. And you know why you should believe me, doctor?” Aventurine leans in, far, far too close. He hooks a finger under Ratio’s chin, tilting his head up. Their faces are mere inches away. Aventurine’s eyes bore into his and Ratio almost gets lost in their mesmerizing glow. “Life—and even death— is a big gamble. And I’ll always be the final victor.”

Ratio defiantly meets Aventurine’s gaze and scoffs. “We shall see about that.” 

Aventurine grins as he opens the door to his visitor. In strides Ratio, head held high and posture straight, though his mere appearance here alone is proof of his defeat.

He’s utterly exhausted and the strain on his muscles is starting to become overwhelmingly painful. 

“Right on time for dinner. Come in, doc,” Aventurine hums, far too pleased with himself than Ratio is able to tolerate. He wordlessly follows after the gambler, the door, equipped with an automatic detection system of sorts, shutting behind him. 

The interior of Aventurine’s penthouse reflects his ludicrously expensive tastes. Its owner, however, is currently wearing a simple button-down back shirt with a golden trim, white slacks, and a surprisingly ordinary pair of house slippers. 

The penthouse has two stories, going by the spiral staircase leading upstairs. Save for what Ratio assumes is a bathroom of sorts, the place virtually has no doors. The living space is large, far too large for a person living by himself. Ratio counts three couches in total, positioned around a coffee table with the largest one facing a fake fireplace. On the coffee table lay a stack of books haphazardly strewn around, and Ratio recognizes them as the ones he published.

There’s a set of two chairs in the corner by the large windows overlooking the city with a round table separating them, said table stacked with chips and varying decks of cards. A shelf on the opposing wall holds more of Aventurine’s gambling-related items and games the likes of which Ratio hasn’t ever seen before, nor does he care to inquire.

The kitchen area is adjacent, separated from the living space by glass panels. Again, it’s a tasteless display of the rich flaunting their wealth, modernized but hardly seeing any use. There’s a large dining table with four chairs, a basket full of fake fruits serving as a decorative piece. On one side is what Ratio assumes to be Aventurine’s laptop and his phone. 

All in all, it is a place belonging to those in the upper echelons of society. Save for a few details, it hardly reflects its owner's personality. 

The only compliment Ratio is willing to give is that there are fewer corpses or bloodstains than his imagination had suspected. 

Aventurine turns to him with a knowing smile. “Out of your depth, doctor?”

“Indeed. What an utter waste of architecture and resources.” Scathing as always. Ratio sees no need to hold his tongue, not when his displeasure is written all over his face.

Aventurine laughs. “I went through so much trouble cleaning the place up for you… haha, but I expected as much from you. Even I’m not that attached to this place, but it beats living—” Aventurine suddenly falls quiet. His expression shifts before he collects himself and continues. “—In a small apartment or house in a packed neighborhood.” 

Ratio raises an eyebrow. That is not what Aventurine initially wanted to say and there’s an almost forlorn look to his eyes.

Ratio leaves him be. It isn’t his place to press, besides. He just hums; it is up to Aventurine to interpret it as an affirmative or disdain. Aventurine adopts an unusual silence as he leads Ratio to the kitchen, pulling back a chair. Ratio wordlessly takes a seat. 

“Here we are. Ah, your dinner should be here soon. You’ll have to forgive me for outsourcing, I’m not that confident in my cooking abilities.” Aventurine sits down right across Ratio, regarding him with one of his usual easygoing smiles that do not reach his eyes at all. 

All that aside, Ratio hardly feels at ease. In a manner of speaking, he is right in the lion’s den—there is nowhere for him to run, and nothing he can do would Aventurine decide that his dinner, too, has been served.

Said dinner being Ratio.

And yet, oddly enough, Ratio does not feel like he is on the menu today, despite making an overly easy prey for Aventurine.

He tries to get a little comfortable in the chair. It beats his office chair by a lot, the cushioned fabric much kinder to his aching body. He rolls his shoulders with a groan, moving a hand to the back of his neck to pinpoint where tension plagues him the most and starts massaging it out. “Given your disastrous attempt at making coffee and ordering takeout, I expected as much. I am surprised, however, that you do not have servants running around at your beck and call. You hardly seem like the type to put in manual labor.” 

Aventurine laughs. “You really do think the worst of me, don’t you? And here I thought we were starting to understand each other…” He sighs dramatically. “Haha. You could say I’m pretty keen on my privacy, is all.” Ah, and there’s his honest answer. Ratio didn’t have to pry it out of him. Quite surprising.

Aventurine suddenly stands up and rounds the table, stopping behind Ratio. He puts his hands on Ratio’s shoulders and Ratio’s body seizes up, his blood running cold.

Then Aventurine pushes down. 

Ratio moans.

His eyes widen and he quickly slaps a hand over his mouth. “What… what do you think you are doing?” 

“What’s it look like? Massaging you, obviously. It’s a little pathetic to watch you try and work the kinks out yourself, when my strength far surpasses yours. You know, if I pressed too hard, I could just, accidentally…” Aventurine pinches Ratio’s skin between his fingers and kneads his flesh as one would do with dough. Another moan falls from Ratio’s lips, muffled by his hand. “…Break your fragile little bones.”

Ratio tries to shrug him off, but Aventurine is persistent. “You could have gone without threatening me. Now get off, vampire.”

“Threatening? I was just stating a fact! Ratio, we’re partners, you don’t have to be so hostile to me all the time… am I not doing you a favor with this?” Aventurine points out, pressing down a little harder. His thumbs glide against Ratio’s neck, rubbing at the base of his skull.

Ratio groans. Oh, that… feels divine.

He snaps himself out of it. Especially when Aventurine follows up with, “Besides, you sound… ah, how do I put it? Hmm, I don’t think it matters, you’ll be offended either way. You sound so pretty, making those noises. Come on, doctor. You really do need this, don’t you?”

It takes Ratio more self-control than he is willing to admit to say, “Get off, Aventurine.” Because Aventurine is right, he does need this, and Aventurine’s touch is dangerously good, thus terrible for his self-control. But his words are final, and Aventurine pulls away, returning to his seat.

His touch lingers, and Ratio forces the desire for more out of his head. It is inappropriate, and as Aventurine said, he could very likely snap Ratio in half would he so please. 

A smug smirk curls his lips when he meets Ratio’s gaze. “Goodness, doctor, you’re all red! Did I work you up that much? If you’re not interested in a massage, I can always suggest another form of… relief.” His voice dips low. Is he trying to seduce Ratio?

“Quiet, you!” Ratio snaps, embarrassment coloring his cheeks a deep crimson. “Must you insist on being crass? I have no desire to engage in any physical activity with you!”

“Oh, really? I can hear your heartbeat, the rush of your blood… hmmm, or maybe you’ve just convinced yourself you’re not interested? Well, I guess that’s smart, isn’t it? Given what I am, and all.” Ratio almost senses a hint of self-deprecation to Aventurine’s tone, but shrugs it off. He must be imagining things. And he’s growing more irritated by the second. “Okay, okay, enough teasing. I just cleaned my floors, so I’d really prefer it if you could keep yourself in check.”

Ratio deflates with a heavy sigh. Interacting with Aventurine proves to be as arduous as always—were it not a scientific impossibility, Ratio would say that this interaction alone has taken ten years off his life.

But that is utterly ridiculous. So the thought doesn’t even cross his mind. 

“Oh, before I forget…” Aventurine pulls a card out of his pocket, and slides it over to Ratio. “I booked you a hotel room. It’s not that far from here, but I’ll text you the directions. It’s just for one night, but I can extend your stay whenever.”

Ratio looks at the name on the card and nearly has an aneurysm. Aventurine had gone out of his way to book Ratio a room in what is possibly the most expensive hotel chain on the entire planet, and talks about extending his stay as if it wouldn’t cost him thousands of credits. At a loss for words, Ratio takes the card and pockets it, struggling to react.

“No need to thank me,” Aventurine quips when Ratio’s silence continues to last. “I have all this money, and barely anything to spend it on. So why not treat my poor, overworked colleague? It’s purely transactional, Ratio. Don’t think too hard about it, or you might just break your brain. And oh, wouldn’t that just be a shame? The brightest mind of humanity, defeated by a vampire’s generosity.”

“I do not need your generosity.” Ratio finally finds his words. “I accept only on the grounds that you have already gone ahead and booked it, but you will do no further without discussing it prior. I have enough funds to find myself a decent stay.” It’s clear Ratio takes Aventurine’s supposed generosity as a slight.

Aventurine raises an eyebrow. “Sure, but why haven’t you, then?”

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose. He opens his mouth to speak, but Aventurine beats him to it.

“Because you’re too busy, right? So obviously, I had to take matters into my own hands. You’re welcome.”

Ratio glares. To reject and not even utter a word of thanks is in poor manners, but he hadn’t asked for this. Aventurine’s gifts are as empty as those eyes of his—misplaced physical attraction aside, Ratio cares little for the man outside of work. 

He doesn’t have to suffer Aventurine’s idle chatter for much longer, as the vampire gets a notification on his phone. He puts the device down and claps his hands, standing up. “Your food is here. Excuse me for a moment. Don’t go touching things that don’t belong to you, okay?”

Ratio groans. “I am not an ill-mannered child.”

Aventurine laughs as he disappears further into the house, making for the front door.

He returns with a steaming hot dish, but that’s not Ratio’s focal point. No, what catches his attention is that Aventurine is carrying it with his bare hands, heedless of the temperature. It scorches his skin, but it heals within a matter of seconds. Either Aventurine doesn’t feel it, or is it… deliberate?

Ratio frowns. 

Aventurine puts it down on the plate he set for Ratio and lifts the lid. It’s a mixture of meats, vegetables, and a salad on the side. Everything one needs for a nutritious meal. 

“Though they are not your own, I commend the efforts put in to the dish. My compliments to the chef,” Ratio says. 

“I’ll pass them on,” Aventurine replies in a tone that implies he’ll forget about it after a minute. He disappears into the kitchen, rummaging around in the fridge. Out of courtesy, Ratio waits for the master of the house to return with his dinner until he starts eating.

Aventurine’s meal is rather plain—a red liquid in a wine glass. Though it could easily be mistaken as red wine, Ratio knows better. The density and color of it speak volumes, and he momentarily loses his appetite.

“Come on, eat up! I didn’t hire those chefs for you to stare at me. Not that I mind the attention, but your food gets cold, you know. It cost me quite a bit.” Aventurine brings the glass to his lips. Ratio observes as he takes a sip, a shudder running through the vampire’s body. Color briefly returns to his face and puffs of breath fog the inside of the glass. He’s holding back, clearly, but why?

For Ratio’s sake?

Aventurine meets his gaze with a smirk and flashes him a wink. Ratio has never felt so inspired to eat his food before. 

Though Aventurine makes attempts at small talk, Ratio heeds his manners and shuts him down by reminding him of such. It doesn’t deter Aventurine, of course, but he starts babbling to himself without expecting a response. 

He talks about everything and nothing, and Ratio starts tuning him out when he muses aloud about changing up the furniture in his house. 

Ratio puts his utensils down on his empty plate when he finishes and chases his food down with a glass of water. He sighs his content, feeling much more refreshed after a proper meal.

“Hey, Ratio, I was asking you a question,” Aventurine says, his chin resting on his hands as he stares at the doctor. He’s finished his own dinner, his gaze expectant.

Ratio sighs. “So you were. Have you considered that it was entirely too nonsensical to catch my attention?”

Aventurine huffs out a laugh. “Wow, you really don’t hold back! I thought you were just in a bad mood because of your work, but you’re really just like this in general, huh? If it weren’t for that handsome face of yours, I fear I’d have tolerated you much less.”

“The sentiment is mutual.”

Aventurine’s eyes light up and a huge smirk curls his lips. Ratio realizes his mistake too late. 

“Oh? You think I’m handsome? Such a flatterer, doctor! I didn’t know you had it in you.”

Ratio sets his jaw and puts a hand on his head. “Leave it up to you to misconstrue my words entirely. Are you selectively deaf, Aventurine?”

“I could say the same about you, you know,” Aventurine fires back. “But you’ve got my undivided attention now, Ratio. Do you find me attractive?”

“Why do you insist on…” Ratio trails off with a sigh, shaking his head. “Fine. Yes, objectively speaking, you are pleasing to the eye. Satisfied?”

“Very.” Aventurine purrs. Purrs. Ratio’s hope for a headache-less evening goes up in smoke. Not that he had any hopes in the first place, given it was Aventurine he had to spend the night with.

Chose.

He chose to spend the evening with Aventurine. Because he voluntarily took on that wager, believing he would win.

No, that’s not entirely right—he had no chances of success in the first place. Leaning back in his chair, he folds his hands and takes a deep breath.

Perhaps… he secretly longed for some comfort after that arduous week with little to no progress.

And that desire had led him to Aventurine.

A strange laugh slips past Ratio’s lips and he shakes his head. Aventurine’s eyebrows shoot up.

“Woah, what’s up with you? Everything in order up there?”

“Ha… No. Hardly. Far from. I believe I’ve gone utterly insane.” 

“Now you’re worrying me! Do I need to take your temperature? Tuck you in?” Aventurine asks, raising an eyebrow. “I didn’t expect you to break so soon, though. Kind of a shame, actually. I expected more out of you.”

Ratio glares at him. “Careful, gambler. This is merely a momentary lapse in judgment. Nothing a fine bath and a good night’s rest cannot fix.”

“O-kay, if you say so. Come on, let’s go to the living room, hmm?” 

Ratio gives him a look. “I believe the arrangement was for me to come and eat dinner. There was nothing about me staying longer. Ah, and to leave the dishes dirty is in poor manners. Let me clean my plate, and then I shall be off.” He stands up, grabbing his plate, utensils and glass, loading them into the dishwasher. When he returns, Aventurine is nowhere in sight.

Frowning, Ratio ventures into the living area. Indeed, there he is, sat at the table in the corner, except instead of chips, there…

“Ah, a chess set? I did not know you played.” Ratio’s eyes light up. 

Aventurine waves the black king at him. “What, fancy a game?”

“Oh, how I do indeed. Very well then.” Ratio’s mood visibly brightens as he makes for the table, pulling the vacant chair back and takes a seat.

Aventurine smirks at him. “I thought you were in a rush? Didn’t you have a hotel to get to?”

Ratio huffs. “I will not pass up a good game of chess. Whether or not you prove to be a good opponent remains to be seen, however, I will not turn down a game of intellect. Though it pains me to say so, a bath only goes so far to stimulate the mind. Chess, however…”

Aventurine laughs. “I get the picture, thank you, Ratio. You’re suddenly so talkative! And all it took was a chessboard…” He shakes his head, grinning to himself. 

“Let us not waste any more time on pleasantries and get started.” 

Aventurine nods. They place their pieces on their respective places on the board, kicking off the game. Aventurine makes the first move.

“I’ve been meaning to ask, Ratio… those achievements of yours, you downplay them quite a bit in your books, but on the net? People sing your praises. Why are you so humble, hmm? If I were you, if I’d done what you have… haha, I probably wouldn’t shut up about it. And why would you? You’ve done the impossible!”

Feeling indulgent, perhaps in part due to Aventurine proving to be a decent opponent, Ratio decides to answer. “I pride myself on my accomplishments, however that does not mean I must carry myself in a manner that places me above others. In the grand scheme of things, I am but a man, as is any other. Indeed, I do excel at many fields, however, instead of gloating, it is my duty and desire to pass down this knowledge to those willing to learn. Humanity cannot take the steps required to move forward if every so-called genius were to keep their secrets and formulae to themselves.”

“Oh? Do I sense some resentment there? If I remember correctly, you didn’t get invited to the… what, club of Geniuses? The gathering of the brightest minds of humanity?”

Ratio visibly tenses up. Aventurine hit a sore spot, but he is not wrong. “…Interpret my words as you wish. The meaning is yours to find, and not mine to spell out.”

“Haha, alright. Touchy subject, hmm?”

Ratio says nothing, but his silence speaks volumes.

Aventurine sighs deeply as he makes his next move. “Fine, fine. Here, I’ll let you in on a little secret of my own. Vampires have a governing body, and me, I am just another cog in the machine. Ah-ah, that’s all you’re going to get, for now.” He cuts Ratio off before Ratio can ask more. Aventurine shrugs. “Equal exchange, don’t you think?”

“And am I to take your word for it?” 

“Do you know any other vampires?” Aventurine queries. “Don’t worry, I’m not lying. Most of them just prefer to live underground, but that life really isn’t for me.”

There’s something he’s not telling, Ratio senses, but he’s not being dishonest either. Ratio simply hums, and makes his next move.

“Fascinating. I must quiz you on the intricacies of such a society another time.” 

“Sure, if you tell me more about yourself, too.” For a society that supposedly goes to such lengths to remain secret, Aventurine doesn’t appear to need much motivation to put those out in the open. Has he an underlying grudge? Is there a benefit to it? Or, perhaps, have they put him up to this?

Ratio shakes his head. “What else is there to know? Everything has already been documented, be it books, interviews, or documentaries,” Ratio points out.

“Sure, but I prefer hearing it from you. Besides, you talk about those like they don’t even have anything to do with you. There’s a lot more to you, Veritas Ratio. Ahaha, sorry, doctor Veritas Ratio.” Aventurine palms his chin, waving one of his pieces at Ratio as he waits to make his move and indulges in more incessant blabbering. “Maybe I’d like to know the difference between you as a person, and you as… well, what all those pieces of media make you out to be. The rumors are the most intimate, though. Haha, I already saw some talking about me. They’re wondering if, what, you’ve gotten yourself a hot boyfriend? Your sexuality is a pretty hot topic right now.” 

Ratio sets his jaw. “None of that is any of their—or your concern. I detest such meaningless speculation. Even though I urge you to stay away from it, you… ha. You find such drivel entertaining, do you not? What low-grade diversion. If you have that much free time, you could occupy that by doing something actually productive, such as reading a book.” 

Aventurine finally makes his move. “Haha, sure, if you give me some recommendations. I’m not much of a reader, though. Ah, but don’t they have… you know, spoken ones nowadays? Technology advances far too quickly for me to keep up with, I’m afraid.” 

“Audiobooks,” Ratio amends. 

“Yes, those. Oh, but Ratio—are you into men?” 

Ratio’s hand freezes mid-air. “What?”

“Just indulge me. I won’t go spreading it online, I promise.” 

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose and lets out a long, suffering sigh. “As you will keep pestering me about this, fine, I will answer. I am indeed. Satisfied?” 

Aventurine smirks. “Quite.” 

“If this is to be a mutual exchange, then you ought to answer something of my own,” Ratio points out.

“Oh, what, if I swing that way too? I most definitely do.” One look from Ratio, and Aventurine laughs. “What, not what you were looking for? Alright, I’ll give you something that’ll interest you. It’s only a fair deal, hmm? I don’t play dirty. Let’s see… what to tell, what to tell. Ah! There are two species of vampires in our society. Born ones, and unfortunate souls that got turned after their deaths. I’m not telling you which one I am, though. And yes, there are differences, but… haha, that’s a topic for another time.”

Ratio raises an eyebrow. “Ah, so you do have an understanding of what is an equivalent exchange.” He allows a smirk to curl his lips as he makes his final move. “Checkmate.” 

Aventurine whistles. “As expected of the prestigious doctor! Very good.” 

“Do not patronize me, gambler.” 

“Okay, okay, I got the hint, enough teasing. Don’t glare at me like that, doctor. You’re so scary,” Aventurine coos as if he’s talking down to a child, further adding to Ratio’s building headache. Ratio puts a hand on his forehead, parting with an aggravated sigh.

“You… It appears coming here was a lapse in judgment. I will be taking my leave.” 

“What, you don’t want to play another round?” 

Ratio prepares to stand up. “Though you play with tactics far above the average mind, that mouth of yours severely dulls my mind.” 

“Such a sharp tongue… but I’ll take the compliment.” 

“It was merely an observation. Do with it as you wish.” Ratio pushes his chair back, but Aventurine is faster. He stands up and gets behind Ratio, holding his chair in place with a strength that far surpasses the doctor’s own. 

Ratio’s heartbeat picks up speed. Adrenaline pumps through his blood. 

Is this it?

With strength like that, Aventurine could easily end it here and now. 

Perhaps… he’s finally had enough of this farce. Of this play he’s been putting on.

And yet, Ratio refuses to yield. He stands—or rather sits, if one were to be literal—his ground, head held up high.

Aventurine’s finger presses against the back of his neck, gliding down to the hem of Ratio’s shirt. “You’re sweating. What gives? Afraid you’ll lose to me, hmm?” Aventurine’s voice is too close. It dawns on Ratio then that the vampire, that this apex predator has lowered his head and is right next to Ratio’s face, his words tickling Ratio’s skin.

In the face of certain death, Ratio…

Ratio finds himself irritated rather than scared.

“If you are going to kill me, then get on with it. These theatrics of yours are starting to tire me,” he hisses, yet his voice trembles, betraying his fear.

Aventurine laughs. It sets Ratio’s hairs on end. “Do you want me to?”

Ratio turns his head to look at Aventurine. Rather, he glowers, unfaltering even when their faces are mere inches apart. “No,” he answers. Warm breaths brush against Aventurine’s lips. Ratio watches them quiver, but he takes it as a sign that Aventurine is trying to hold back his urge to bite, courteous enough to hear Ratio’s final words. “I am far from suicidal. I believe my existence benefits humanity as a whole—but you do not care for that. Therefore it would be pointless for me to try and persuade you otherwise.” 

Aventurine grins toothily. 

So close.

In what are perhaps to be the final moments of his life, Veritas Ratio’s only regret…

…

Aventurine’s eyes are even more mesmerizing up close. 

Ratio resigns himself to his fate. There is nothing he could possibly do. 

Aventurine leans in.

Chapter Text

They’re but a hair apart. Noses brush together and the sound of Ratio’s breathing is all that fills the air.

Ratio refuses to close his eyes.

And just as it looks like Aventurine is about to make his move…

…He pulls away, laughing. “Oh, doctor, you should’ve seen your face! Hahaha, you know, I was just going to ask you for another game, but I just couldn’t resist

Ratio’s eyes blow wide. He jumps up from his chair, and when he opens his mouth… as the saying goes, when it rains, it pours

Ratio rants and raves about what a capricious, incorrigible creature Aventurine is, and Aventurine takes it all in stride with a self-satisfied smirk that the doctor nearly considers punching off his face at one point.

After a grand total of five minutes, his rant comes to an end. Aventurine looks at him with a mildly apologetic smile that’s still far too smug for Ratio’s liking. “There, there. Let it all out, doc? I would recommend more efficient ways of relieving stress, but… wow. I’m impressed! You really have a way with words—and you didn’t even curse a single time!"

“Aventurine,” Ratio hisses out in warning, his fingers twitching. If he keeps running that mouth of his any longer… even Ratio’s immaculate self-control has a hard limit.

“Haha, no need to resort to violence! I get it. But don’t you feel better, hmm? I mean, stress-wise."

“I—” Ratio grabs his head with a sigh.

Tension that had built up over the course of several weeks all converged into an explosive rant aimed at Aventurine’s person. Ratio’s mind almost feels lighter for it. The intensity of his internal frustrations and other bottled-up emotions expressed itself through the act of… of shouting.

He, doctor Veritas Ratio, shouting his lungs out as this utterly aggravating man. Deserved, perhaps, and yet a learned man such as himself should be above behaviors like this

Ratio’s shoulders slump. Yes, Aventurine purposefully riled him up, but he was out of line. He pinches the bridge of his nose, swallowing his pride. “I… apologize. It should be beneath me to rise to your little games."

“Apology accepted.” Aventurine bows his head as a gesture of acceptance. Ah, so he has it in him to be decent. “And you’re welcome.” No, Ratio’s judgment is off again. He should know better than to expect anything else out of Aventurine.

Aventurine returns to his seat. “To make up for it… how about another game? I’ll take it seriously this time, I promise. Haha, maybe I might even beat you!"

Ratio scoffs. “Not a chance.”

“How would you rate my odds?"

Despite wishing to leave, Ratio sits back down and crosses his arms over his chest. Aventurine is a fine opponent in chess, and Ratio could use another exercise of the mind to recover from his earlier outburst—though it was caused by the very same man. “Hmph. Below ten percent. That is all the leeway I am willing to give you."

Aventurine raises an eyebrow. “It’s not zero, so I’ll take it. Up for a wager?"

Ratio resists the urge to roll his eyes. “That depends entirely on these stakes of yours."

“Oh, nothing big. If I win… hmm, let’s see… should I ask for a sample of your blood? Ahaha, but we probably aren’t at that level yet. What to ask…” As Aventurine trails off with a hum, Ratio surprises him.

“I accept. You will not beat me regardless, thus I stand to lose nothing. However, if the unlikely case that you do win occurs… it will be done inside the hospital, and I will grant you a small vacutainer."

“Deal. Oh, but to make this fair… what do you want, Ratio?”

Ratio palms his chin. What does he want, indeed… for Aventurine to quit running his mouth? Impossible. That gambler would sooner develop sound logic than stop antagonizing Ratio. Ratio fears it has become a hobby of his.

Assured in his victory, though, Ratio just says the first thing that comes to mind when he catches Aventurine staring again. “Quit ogling my neck. I am aware of your… needs, however, I ask you keep yourself in check around me.”

Aventurine narrows his eyes for a fraction of a second, but it doesn’t slip past Ratio’s notice. Has he caused offense? If he did, then it's up to Aventurine himself to voice his discontent. Instead, he just shrugs, and leans back. “Fine. There’s plenty of you to ogle for me anyways.” He punctuates his sentence with a wink, not so subtly letting his gaze wander to Ratio’s chest. Though the doctor may be wearing his simpler attire; a cardigan, an undershirt, and his lab coat, his muscular physique remains prominent to the naked eye. 

Ratio shakes his head. Incorrigible. 

Whatever his reasons, Aventurine doesn’t stray far off-topic in the idle chatter that ensues throughout their following game. He quizzes Ratio on his work environment, on some of the topics mentioned in Ratio’s books, to which the doctor almost happily responds. It is rare to find someone who truly engages in that which Ratio deems worthy of his attention, and to have an understanding of it, as well.

It dawns on him every now and again, whenever the vampire sees fit to slip in a cheeky remark, that this is Aventurine, and while Ratio might not know much about him… he’s come to learn that the vampire is a gambling enthusiast with a knack for getting under Ratio’s skin, be it with flirtatious or otherwise idiotic comments.

The second game, too, ends in Ratio’s victory. 

“You’re really doing a number on my brain here with those moves of yours,” Aventurine comments with one of his usual smiles. He stands up, stretching his limbs, and Ratio follows his example. He takes a look at his watch and sighs heavily.

“Ah, but that is a good thing, Aventurine. Perhaps, if you used your brain more often, you would think to run that mouth of yours less. You are far more agreeable when you are silent.” 

“Aw, he finds me agreeable!” Of course that is Aventurine’s takeaway from Ratio’s scathing words.

Ratio takes off his glasses and rubs his eyes with his other hand. “I fear your brain is beyond hopeless. I will thank you for the fine dinner and invigorating games of chess. Now, I shall take my leave.” 

“Sure. Haha, what’s with that look? Expected me to say something like, leaving so soon? Come now, doctor, even I’m not that cheesy, and I wouldn’t want to impede on your precious alone-time…” Aventurine smirks up at him, patting down Ratio’s coat. His hands linger for a moment, and Ratio idly wonders if that tendency of his to initiate physical contact might be tied to his cravings.

He shrugs it off and turns around to leave, only to be stopped in his tracks when something on the coffee table catches his eye.

“Do my eyes deceive me, or is that a first-edition copy of Brief Lives by renowned scholar and antiquarian—among many other things—John Aubrey?”

Aventurine walks over to the table, picking up the book. “Indeed it is. You have such a keen eye for things like these, don’t you? As a gesture of goodwill… why don’t I lend it to you?” 

Ratio eyes him suspiciously. Aventurine waves the book in his face, his carelessness with such a priceless book prompting Ratio into taking action and snatching it from Aventurine’s hands. “Why not, indeed. This will suffice as compensation for your incessant probing and tendency to put your nose where it does not belong.”

Aventurine laughs, patting Ratio on the shoulder. “Off you go then, doctor, unless you want me to keep… probing. We might end up somewhere completely different…” He trails off with a cheeky hum.

Ratio looks unamused. “Indeed. Have a good night, Aventurine.”

“Same to you, doctor. Remember to sleep in an actual bed for once, alright?”

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose and parts with a long-suffering sigh. He deserves that jab, he supposed, for his terrible habits as of recent. 

With the book in hand, Ratio makes for the front door, leaving with his plans for the night in his head, already proving to be a source of relaxation.

To say that Ratio’s stay was ludicrously expensive would be a complete and utter understatement.

He stares, flabbergasted, at the sheer size of the hotel room Aventurine had booked for him. He barely gets past the short hallway before he considers turning around and demanding a refund. The bed is obscenely large, but it hardly takes up that much space. The room is also equipped with a vintage desk and a matching chair, a chaise lounge by the balcony doors, a set of two couches facing a television, a hearth Ratio immediately discerns to be fake, merely for decoration… and so on, so forth. 

It’s almost dizzying. 

He whips out his phone, and quickly searches for more reasonable accommodations, planning to rent something better suited to his tastes as quite frankly he does not plan to spend longer than one night in this… complete and utter waste of money.

Putting his suitcase down on the desk, Ratio shrugs off his coat and removes his glasses. He runs a hand through his hair, sighing loudly. His shoes he’d already left by entrance, and remembers that there were even more doors he’d yet to check out.

He almost fears opening them.

One leads to a spacious bathroom. His eyes go wide at the sight of the bathtub. If one were to describe the look on his face… smitten would perhaps be the most appropriate word to use.

“Ah… now that is a bathtub,” he says to himself with a soft chuckle, shuddering as he anticipates soaking in the warm water with the book Aventurine had lent him. With his mood significantly lifted, Ratio turns on the faucets, gauges the temperature with his fingers, and once he makes sure that it’s just right does he step away and looks into the room adjacent.

A laundry room. But that is not what catches his intrigue—no, it’s the pair of what look to be simple clothes with a note attached to them. Upon unveiling, Ratio realizes that, though simple, the nightwear prepared for him, too, costs nothing short of a fortune.

He picks up the note, preparing for his impending headache.

Doctor,

Just a little something to sleep in. I don’t know your size, but I estimate it’s about this. I included a pair of boxers as well.

Convenient, isn’t it? Now you can wash your clothes, kick back, and relax!

Remember to thank me tomorrow.

– Aventurine.

Ratio sets his jaw. It feels like an utter invasion of his privacy, as the man had even gotten him underwear, but… well, technically speaking, he is not wrong.

Ratio strips out of his clothes and first tosses his dark socks, cardigan, boxers, pants, and blouse in the washing machine, preparing to do another load after this for his coat. 

He grabs the clothes prepared for him by Aventurine, intending only to wear the pair of boxers that looks… acceptable, though the brand is one Ratio is unfamiliar with, and returns to the bathroom.

The pleasant aroma of rose-scented water fills the room. Ratio’s tension settles a little, and after he grabs himself a towel and fetches the book, he steps into the bath, outright moaning as he sits down and allows the warm water to claim him, washing not only his body but his mind as well.

Opening the book, Ratio prepares himself for an evening of immersion, necessary to clear his mind.

After his bath, Ratio wraps a towel around his middle and puts on a bathrobe. He hangs his clothes to dry and ventures into the main room after ensuring all the lights are out. He feels uneasy when he gets in bed—it’s far too spacious, and there is far too much going on inside the room itself in terms of furniture.

Regardless, he falls asleep rather quickly, enticed by the comfort of the soft mattress.

Ratio should have known better than to expect a simple commute to his work.

He exits the hotel to a familiar face awaiting him outside. Ratio stops in his tracks, seriously considering pretending like he didn’t see the man and being on his way.

But that would be quite petty, not to mention, infantile. And Veritas Ratio is a man of decent standing, so he begrudgingly greets his colleague, acknowledging his presence with a nod of his head and an eyebrow raised in question.

“Ah, doctor! Slept well, I hope?” Aventurine says in lieu of greeting, waving Ratio over.

“Indeed I have. However, I have canceled any further stay. I made more suitable arrangements for myself. Ah, though I suppose I will have to thank you for the bath… simply exquisite.”

“Haha, of course. A shame that you decided to end your stay, but not unexpected. Such a picky man, Ratio, I even went out of my way to rent you the best room! It cost me a fortune, you know.”

Ratio hands Aventurine the bag of unused sleepwear. Aventurine looks inside, then at Ratio, and shrugs his shoulders.

“That you did. It begs the question of why. You are certainly going out of your way to ensure my comfort, though I would say that you are going overboard. Is it a bribe you seek? Other ulterior motives?” It’s best to ask him outright than speculate. He doubts Aventurine will give him a straight answer, but something is better than none, and Ratio is not in the habit of overthinking social interaction.

“Why? Oh, Ratio… I just want to make sure our miracle doctor is in the shape the world needs him to be. Is that really so wrong? You’re the one always nagging me about how dire the situation is, how I should stay focused, be a little more considerate…” Aventurine trails off, because he knows Ratio got the picture.

“…If your reasons are truly as banal as that…” Ratio shakes his head. “You care not for the fate of humanity. The only reasonable conclusion is that you are either keeping track of my whereabouts, or you have stakes in this as a whole.” With Aventurine having proved himself to be a gambling man, the latter part sounds most likely to Ratio.

As expected, what he gets out of Aventurine hardly counts as a reply. He just smiles cryptically, shrugging his shoulders. “Maybe. Maybe not. Isn’t figuring that out part of the fun for you, doc?”

Ratio opts to ignore that provocative question and checks his watch.

“We should be on our way.”

“Sure. I parked there.” Aventurine jabs his thumb somewhere behind him. Ratio’s eyes land on a sleek, black car he recognizes to be a Duesenberg.

Of course.

He doesn’t even question it anymore, though he aches to lecture Aventurine on his spending habits. He shakes the thoughts from his head. “Do you even have a license?” He opts to ask.

Aventurine hums in thought. “Sure. I got it, what, twenty years ago? Thirty?”

Ah. So he is indeed older than his appearance suggests, giving credibility to Ratio’s theory that his body is merely frozen in time.

But that is not the concerning part of his words. “Did you ever think to renew it?”

Aventurine looks at him weird. “I have it, so why do I need to?”

Ratio takes a deep, long breath. 

He walks towards the car, and with a tone that brooks no room for argument, he says, “I am driving.”

His workday progresses much the same as any other, now with Aventurine added to the mix. Ratio takes on his research with a clear mind, easily shuts down Aventurine’s attempts at small talk, and as they watch Aventurine’s blood dissipate in real time—to which Aventurine looks slightly disturbed, raising more questions about his emotional state—Ratio proposes a theory.

“I have a theory.”

Aventurine tears his gaze away from his blood, trying to school his expression. It’s harder for him to put on a smile, this time around.

How odd indeed.

“Let’s hear it, then, instead of ogling at me. Unless you like what you’re seeing, of course,” Aventurine chuckles. Ratio stands firm in his decision to pay Aventurine’s words no mind, but that is not to say he doesn’t get under Ratio’s skin regardless.

“First, I must ask for clarification on some matters.”

Aventurine pulls a chair back and sits down. “I’m sworn to secrecy, but, fine. For another game of chess, my dear doctor, I’ll answer to the best of my abilities.”

Ratio suppresses the urge to point out that he is neither Aventurine’s or a dear 

doctor, because that would be pointless. Without giving it much thought, he accepts Aventurine’s proposal, and after Aventurine suddenly derails to ask Ratio what he wants for dinner, Ratio is finally granted room to ask his questions.

“You sustain yourself on the blood of living creatures, correct?” 

Aventurine nods. “More or less. Though technically I’m dead, my brain activity continues. That needs blood to function, right? But my body can’t make any on its own.” 

Ratio hums, palming his chin. “Fascinating. Does blood type play a role?” 

Aventurine shrugs. “Maybe, maybe not. I didn’t know my blood type when I was alive anyway.” 

Blood transplants come to mind; it is the closest science Ratio can logically apply to Aventurine’s functioning, though it isn’t entirely similar, nor does it explain why once outside of his body, his blood simply… ceases to exist.

“You cannot resuscitate a dead body with something as simple as blood. It requires far more. If the brain has ceased to function, if the heart no longer pumps, then it matters not, but you… is it that your body in and of itself serves as a container of sorts?” 

Aventurine raises an eyebrow. “Sorry, are you referring to me as blood storage? Ratio, I’m offended.” And he looks the part, too.

Ratio dismissively waves a hand at him. “I did not mean to offend, I apologize. I assume you cannot tell me about the process one has to undertake to become a vampire?” 

Aventurine shrugs. “It’s pretty simple, actually. Ah, for most people—I forget that you didn’t even do your research! Haha, but then again… fairy tales and the like probably aren’t worth considering, to you. If a vampire drinks your blood, and you drink that vampire’s blood in turn… well, you become like this.” He gestures to his own body. “But not just any old vampire can pull that off, though. I’ve told you about born and created vampires, hmm? Only a born vampire is able to turn others.”

Ratio nods, taking everything Aventurine tells him in stride. Despite the evidence being right in front of him in the form of Aventurine himself, Ratio still finds it hard to wrap his head around all of this being real. 

It both disgusts and fascinates him an equal amount. He is a man beholden to science, forced to work together with a… a creature whose existence completely goes against everything Ratio knows and understands. 

“Before you ask anything else, that’s about everything I know.” Aventurine interrupts Ratio’s train of thoughts with that revelation. Ratio is about to ask how, but he does not know the circumstances under which Aventurine was… as he put it, turned, nor his life before or after, thus he should not, in good faith, judge him for his lack of knowledge.

He idly wonders if vampires are taught anything it all by those that turned them. If there exists a link between them, if… no. He’s getting off-track. None of that pertains to his current research. He will have to ask Aventurine later. 

“This… aggravates me to suggest, and offends to even think about, but perhaps… your body has special qualities that allow the blood to remain inside.” 

“What, like, magic?” Aventurine asks, and Ratio looks at him as if he’s just insulted his dead grandmother. “Ahaha, scary! I’m just curious, doctor, easy.” 

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose and takes a deep breath. “Everything can ultimately be explained. There is no such thing as… as magic. An utterly foolish notion. To suggest magic in my mere presence is—” 

Aventurine raises his hands in a placating gesture. “Ease up, I got it! I offended you, I’m sorry, etcetera, now we move on. Or do you have time to lecture me? Your samples are expiring as you speak, you know.”

Ratio sets his jaw. Aventurine is right. He will not admit to such aloud, but going by the look in his eyes, Aventurine is fully aware of it too. Ratio tries to fight his budding headache by rubbing his temples, but it ends in failure, and he’s forced to bear it as he gets back on track. “If… this blood of yours has the properties I think it has, given your unusual self-healing abilities… I believe it merely needs a vessel after being extracted to prevent its dissolution.” 

“A vessel? What, like a body?” 

“Do not ask stupid questions,” Ratio chides. 

“Come on, doctor, aren’t you the one who said there are no stupid questions, if they come from a genuine place?” Aventurine points out. Ratio levels him a glare. Aventurine just laughs, shaking his head. “And here I thought getting some rest would do you good! You’re even grumpier than usual.”

Ratio deigns not to rise to his taunt. Aventurine takes his silence as his cue to continue speaking, thankfully switching back to the initial topic. “So, where are you going to find a willing vessel? Surely, an upstanding man like yourself isn’t going to just experiment on his patients, is he? Ah, though desperate times, desperate measures…” 

“I suggest you hold your tongue. To suggest that I would treat the lives of those under my care with so little regard would warrant immediate removal from the premises, and if I am feeling particularly inclined to…” He trails off, realizing he’s getting too heated. “Try to refrain from antagonizing me, vampire.” 

“Ooh, how scary! Consider me properly intimidated,” Aventurine drawls, reminding Ratio that there is nothing he could do to dissuade Aventurine. No, from what he’s shown, Aventurine could easily overpower him. 

Ratio’s thoughts wander back to the night prior. Aventurine had held him in place through grabbing his chair, and did not even struggle with it at all, as if Ratio weighed nothing. 

A cold shiver runs down his spine.

It’s pointless to get upset. Aventurine will always have the upper hand. 

“...I will endeavor to test the theory on myself,” Ratio answers truthfully.

Aventurine’s amusement morphs into a look of concern and confusion in one. “Yourself? You don’t even know what it does. What if it turns you into a vampire? What if it’s hostile? Ratio, seriously, consider the risks—” 

“You said so yourself, did you not? Only the blood of a born vampire has the capability to turn one into an undead. Though I have to take your word for it, you are not one of those, therefore I run no risk of… that.” 

Aventurine inches closer. “Ratio, seriously, listen, I don’t even know how much of that is true, I was just—”

Ratio sighs deeply and cuts Aventurine off. “Why do you even care, Aventurine?” 

Aventurine opens and closes his mouth. A strange, forced smile curls his lips. “Ahaha, you’re right, I really don’t, actually. Your life is so short compared to mine anyways, so why should it matter when or how you die?” 

Ratio attributes the almost hollow tone to Aventurine’s voice to one of his many quirks. Perhaps to lose Ratio is simply a waste of good blood to him, or entertainment. Regardless, it does not matter to him, Ratio’s life does not matter to him, because as Aventurine has said, his life is relatively short compared to one of an immortal’s. He nods. “All I ask is that you assist me in the process.” 

Aventurine seems to recover from what Ratio almost would’ve called an emotional outburst did he not know better, but his tone remains flat. “Sure. I’m pretty curious myself. If worst comes to worst, I can always suck it out for you, like a mosquito.” Aventurine snorts.

Ratio even finds himself huffing out a laugh, earning him an odd, almost endearing look from Aventurine. 

He must be seeing things. Though he rested well the night prior, he fears his exhaustion is still catching up to him.

Though, speaking of his own blood, he’s reminded of an experiment of which the outcome he has yet to share with Aventurine.

“If you must know why I am decently optimistic about the procedure…” He produces a vial of blood. Aventurine raises an eyebrow. Ratio continues, “I sampled some of my own blood with yours. It has ceased activity, however, it remained stable. The samples did not have an adverse reaction. Truly fascinating…”

“For those who don’t speak Ratio , what exactly are you getting at?”

“Ah, indeed. I must dumb it down for you.” Ratio sighs, righting his glasses. “Co-existence between the samples is possible. Moreover, some—not all of it, however—of your blood has remained, rather than expiring. That, and…” Ratio takes a UV light, and much to Aventurine’s surprise, the sample hardly reacts to it.

“Oh. Oh wow. You’re actually onto something here.” Aventurine sounds vaguely impressed. Ratio, head held high, allows a smirk to curl his lips.

“Why, but of course. My achievements are not for show, gambler. I strive for perfection in every aspect of my work.”

“You sure do,” Aventurine muses. When Ratio looks at him again, he catches Aventurine with a strange expression—the corners of his lips downturned, a frown so deep in his brows the lines may as well be etched into his complexion.

Most puzzling of all, however…

There’s a sparkle in his eyes.

One that Ratio knows intimately.

It is a look he’s been privy to be on the receiving end of many times in the past. 

One that he’s seen in a student complimented for their essay, a patient when told of the cure to their ailment, so on and so forth.

Yes, it’s unmistakable.

That spark in Aventurine’s usually so dull eyes is one of hope.

But when Aventurine catches him staring, he quickly schools his expression and stands up. “Ahaha, would you look at the time! Things to be, places to do…” 

Ratio quirks a brow. “And what, pray tell, has you in a sudden rush? It is rather odd for one with as smooth a tongue as you to fumble his words.”

Aventurine blinks, bemused. He shakes his head then, tucking his hands into his pockets in an effort to appear nonchalant. “Vampire duty calls. Ah—I don’t mean that of draining humans of their blood, of course. Well, I’ll see you tonight. You don’t have any qualms about chicken, do you? If you do, I should have just enough time to change my order…”

Ratio puts a hand on his head, rubbing his temple. He decides against further questioning Aventurine on his odd behavior. His manner of speech and the brief panic in his eyes remind Ratio too much of a cornered animal rather than the predator he is, and he cannot help but wonder if that, too, is an act.

He fears it might disturb him if it weren’t, because what would a creature such as Aventurine be afraid of?

Ratio finds that he really does not want to know, thus he simply attributes it to the gambler’s frequent mood swings.

“Hmph. So long as you bothered to order something actually nutritious, you will find that I have no complaints.”

Aventurine nods, staring at Ratio for a moment longer.

Ratio is quick to grow tired of his searching gaze. “Well? What are you standing around for? If you have something to say, speak up. If you do not, I suggest you be on your way and quit wasting our collective time.”

Aventurine snaps out of his trance-like state and smiles dangerously. “Right you are! Don’t be late, Ratio.”

Ratio looks at his watch. “I shall be there at seven on the dot. In turn, do not keep me waiting, Aventurine.”

Aventurine chuckles, glancing at Ratio in a manner the doctor isn’t at all familiar with. Aventurine isn’t sizing up his prey, no, he… what is that look? Would ‘sultry’ be an apt descriptor? Before Ratio has a chance to be disturbed—or attracted— by that, too, Aventurine speaks up, “I wouldn’t dream of making you wait…” Cold fingertips lightly ghost against Ratio’s jawline. Ratio’s first instinct is to pull away, but oddly enough, he lingers. Aventurine presses down a little harder, almost a caress. “Until tonight, doctor.”

He pulls away, turns around, and makes his exit with a wave and a wink thrown over his shoulder.

Ratio stands there for a minute too long, trying to figure out what had just happened, and why blood is rising to his face. He snaps out of it before long, and realizes that Aventurine, in his uncharacteristic rush, had forgotten to take the blood bags Ratio prepared for him.

He makes a mental note to bring it when he goes to Aventurine’s for dinner.

Chapter Text

When Aventurine opens the door for Ratio to enter, it is not a greeting Ratio graces him with. No, rather, he looks up from his watch, and says, “You are late by two minutes and fifty-five seconds, while I was on time. Any particular reason?” 

Aventurine snorts. He looks pallid, Ratio observes. Of course, that goes without saying, but if his eyes do not betray him—and they never do—he appears in a worse state than usual. Aventurine steps aside to let Ratio in. “Sorry, sorry. I was all the way upstairs when you rang the doorbell. Or did you want me to wait for you by the door?” His voice has a teasing lilt.

Ratio raises an eyebrow. “Perhaps on the dot, yes. I do value my time.” He follows Aventurine inside, hanging up his coat and bag. He rummages in his bag and produces an airtight bag with the blood bags meant for Aventurine. “...However, I suppose a mere two minutes is hardly of any concern.” 

“Well, next time, I’ll wait for you like a despondent maiden waiting for her beloved to come home,” Aventurine quips, tittering. He leads Ratio into the kitchen where his meal is already prepared. Ratio hands Aventurine the bag. 

“You had forgotten your share. Or am I wrong to assume you have yet to feed? Beyond acting like a headless fool—not to state the obvious, but you look rather pallid. I can see the veins in your face. It is a rather grisly sight.” 

“Haha, nothing slips past your notice, huh?” Aventurine opens the bag. “And you even got me two! How thoughtful. If I didn’t know better, this gesture of goodwill…” His eyes shift around. He closes them, shaking his head. “No, never mind. Thank you, doctor. Sit tight while I prepare my own meal, alright? I shouldn’t be too long, but you can start.” 

Ratio huffs. “Nonsense. I am a guest in your house. The very minimum I could do is adhere to proper table manners.” 

Aventurine gives him that same easy smile Ratio has grown used to and disappears deeper into the kitchen. 

Ratio takes advantage of his absence to ruminate over his odd behaviors. Yes, he cannot deny that Aventurine as a whole is an enigma, however his behaviors today align with an almost anxious disposition. The subtle twitch to his fingers—namely those in his left hand, the strange looks thrown Ratio’s way; searching, questioning, after he’d make a remark, not to mention the way he fumbled his words upon witnessing Ratio’s discovery…

But they are mere colleagues. Ratio should not dig too deep. It would be unbecoming of him. As he said, he is a guest here. A guest who Aventurine had so graciously invited into his home, prepared a nutritious meal for, spent a fortune on a room for… Ratio rubs his head, sighing loudly.

The more he thinks about it, the more complicated and puzzling Aventurine’s behaviors are to him. 

But before he can reach any sort of conclusion, the man in question reappears with a wine glass of red liquid in his hand. At first glance, it could very well pass as an alcoholic beverage, but the thickness of it, and that scent Ratio is so intimately familiar with… 

He shakes his head. He would not let it ruin his appetite. As if on cue, his stomach growls, and he picks up his cutlery, taking a bite.

His face lights up. “Hmm. Not bad. Five points.” 

Aventurine laughs into his glass. “You… are you rating the food? I mean, sure, I get leaving a review, but… hahaha, Ratio, you really are odd.” 

“Ah. I do believe the call is coming from inside the house, dear gambler.” Ratio quips back.

Aventurine looks surprised. It lasts for a split second before he goes back to his drink, but it did not escape Ratio’s notice. 

Frankly, he’s had enough of Aventurine’s odd behavior.

However, dinner comes first.

Thus they dine in relative silence, interrupted occasionally by Aventurine’s attempts at small talk not related to work. However, whenever Ratio does attempt to bring up a work-related matter or similar discovery… 

Aventurine tells him, “Let’s keep work and private separate now, hm? Don’t bring your work home, or whatever it is they say. Ah, although, I remember, you find that ridiculous, don’t you?” And then he starts asking Ratio questions about his personal philosophy, expertly steering the course of the conversation away from work.

When he finishes his dinner and Aventurine his… meal, Ratio puts his fork down.

“Aventurine,” he begins.

“Hmm?” 

“I will be frank with you, as you have an irritating tendency to avoid certain questions or topics unless directly spoken to. To give you a gap to slip through is a mistake. Thus…” Ratio right his posture, glaring at the vampire across him. “What have you been playing at? No, what are you playing at? You are not as collected as you think you are. Your slip-ups have become more frequent. I will not allow anything to get in the way of our work. So I really must implore you to speak up. If it is a problem you cannot resolve by yourself… then I must hear of it and ensure our cooperation progresses smoothly.” 

“And you aren’t as oblivious as I thought,” Aventurine replies after a beat of silence, smoothing a hand through his hair. He sighs deeply, an almost rueful smile curling his lips. His left hand disappears under the table. “Or maybe you are. You’re not the type to play someone for a fool.” 

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose. “No, I am not,” he agrees, “A large majority of the populace already makes fools out of themselves without any external aid.” 

“Alright. Yeah. That’s about what I was expecting. Okay.” 

“Aventurine. Speak up.”

Aventurine throws his hands up. “Point taken, doctor, but be a little patient, will you? Good heavens, you’re really putting me on the spot, here. Okay, fine, I’ll admit, I’m tired of dancing around it, too, so why not cross this bridge now? Or burn it? Whatever you want!” Aventurine clenches his fists. 

His sudden emotional outburst completely retcons something he had mentioned to Ratio prior.

Namely…

Despite claiming otherwise, Aventurine has emotions.

Ones that he struggles to control the intensity of. Ratio watches as he slumps in his chair, putting his right elbow on the table as he folds his left arm behind his back. “If I really have to spell it out for you… Ratio, I’m interested in you. For goodness’s sake, doctor, I invited you into my home, and do I really have to mention everything else? If you make me, I might as well die from embarrassment. Ah, or ask you to drive a stake through my heart. I don’t know if that even works, but it would certainly save me this humiliation .” 

Ratio’s mouth opens around a stupefied ‘o’. 

“Before you get the wrong idea, it’s just physical attraction,” Aventurine quickly clarifies. Then he clicks his tongue, shaking his head with a bitter laugh. “As if that makes any difference.”

Ratio closes his mouth when no words leave him. He palms his chin and thinks. 

Aventurine had, indeed, invited Ratio to his house. And even before that, he’d prepared Ratio coffee despite lacking a sense of taste or smell, returned with takeout after he took note of Ratio’s unacceptable eating habits when he got too absorbed in his work. Always asking for his preferences, and then that expensive hotel room, with a fresh set of clothes that would’ve likely cost a fortune, too…

Though Ratio had thought it to be simply Aventurine’s nature, could it be…

Had Aventurine… been flirting with him?

The realization dawns on him. 

Ratio drops his head into his hands.

Oh, by the Gods…

“Look, if you’re not into it, into me, I’ll back off. We’ll keep this strictly professional.” Aventurine is audibly struggling to keep his voice even. When Ratio lifts his head, he’s met with that familiar, unreadable smile, though this time…

He sees the anxiety and conflict plainly written on Aventurine’s face.

“I…” Ratio begins, “Give me a moment.” 

“Really, doc. I mean, Ratio. I don’t mind if you don’t feel the same way, or if you don’t like it. If you want to pretend like nothing ever even happened—” 

Ratio holds up a hand. “I told you to give me a moment.” 

Aventurine laughs nervously. “Right. Of course.”

Is he… does he view Aventurine in such a light? Is he attracted to him? Ratio eyes Aventurine. Yes, there’s no denying that Aventurine is attractive. He thought of it as an objective fact, but he cannot deny that it is more of a personal observation.

Ratio takes off his glasses and puts a hand on his head.

Aventurine has been nothing but cooperative. Infuriating he may be at times, he has proved to be of tremendous help, offering insights into places Ratio didn’t even think to look. Though they have yet to reach any significant breakthroughs, without Aventurine’s help, Ratio would not have gotten as far as he has. 

That, and… Ratio’s personal curiosity plays a factor here. If they were to enter any form of relationship, then… would he learn more about Aventurine? About who he is under that mask he so carefully maintains? Would he learn what makes Aventurine tick, and get a glimpse at the life he lives? Perhaps Aventurine might even confide in him about those odd emotions that appear to seep through the cracks in his facade.

But he mustn’t perceive Aventurine as a subject of his research. 

No, Ratio… despite his best attempts to keep a predator this dangerous at arm’s length, he truly is interested in Aventurine on a more personal level.

However, if he were to accept, and things would go badly… it could have disastrous results. Results that affect not only the two of them, but the human race as a whole. 

He parts with another heavy sigh. The pros heavily outweigh the cons. The strain on both his body and mind remind Ratio that he’s been far too stressed for his own good, too, severely impairing his supposedly brilliant mind. That which he is praised for, and depended upon.

But with what Aventurine said… physical attraction. That entails sex. Ratio has never given sexual—or romantic, for that matter—intimacy much thought, but for it to be related to something as superfluous as mere physical attraction… or perhaps, he himself has preconceived notions about how all of this would go down is he to accept.

Aventurine…

Ratio looks at him.

Aventurine just smiles. But Ratio knows he’s anxiously awaiting Ratio’s response.

Aventurine likes him. His company. His body, most of all.

Ratio closes his eyes and finally, finally, reaches a verdict.

“I… I have not read into the underlying intentions behind your actions and words. I merely thought it to be part of your… quirks,” he begins, struggling to maintain eye-contact as he feels heat rise to his cheeks. “As I have stated, the current situation has weighed heavily on my mind, and left me with copious amounts of stress that cloud even my better judgment. I am but a man, after all.” He takes a deep breath. “However… all that being said, I… I am not… uninterested.” 

Now it appears Aventurine is rendered at a loss for words. He, like Ratio, just stares, further adding to Ratio’s rising embarrassment. 

“S-say something, you fool! You were the one who brought this up!” 

Aventurine laughs. Unlike his usual laughs, it’s louder, longer, and dare he say it, genuine. “Oh, Ratio… I didn’t know you would get so flustered. If I’d known that sooner…” He shakes his head. “Haha, but I wouldn’t have. So, does that mean…?” 

Ratio feels a headache building. “I… might need some time to process it. However, as I stated, I am not uninterested. I merely… I have never…”  

“You’re a virgin, right?” Aventurine asks nonchalantly.

“What?!” Ratio blurts out, shooting out of his spot. “How did you—?!” 

“Your blood. I didn’t sample a taste, but the smell… well, I think you get the picture.” 

Ratio’s offense is so loud on his face that Aventurine stands up as well, preparing to dodge a swipe from the furious and embarrassed doctor.

However, instead, Ratio verbally unloads onto him, heedless of his volume. By the end of it, his affront has made way for shame. Shame at his own lack of control over his emotions. 

He puts some distance between Aventurine and himself, putting a hand on his forehead.

“I…” Apologize. The word feels bitter on his tongue. He swallows his pride and looks Aventurine in the eye. “I apologize for my outburst. That was unbecoming of me.” 

“You really lowered yourself to my level, there,” Aventurine teases. His posture is less rigid, Ratio notices. His left hand has ceased shaking. “But are you okay there, doc? You’re all red.” 

Truthfully, Ratio feels warm.

Entirely too warm.

He aches for a bath, but that would require for him to leave, and take a twenty-minute commute through public transit to the room he’d rented.

His eyes wander to Aventurine’s lips.

Cold…

Yes. Aventurine is cold. Aventurine could theoretically cool him down. 

Ratio swallows thickly. 

He boldly takes a step forward. Their chests are but a hand away from touching. Cold air emanates from Aventurine’s body, almost enticing Ratio into closing that distance.

Aventurine carefully alights a hand on his cheek. 

Ratio looks at him expectantly.

Aventurine smiles. “Do you want to…?” 

“Yes,” Ratio replies before Aventurine has time to finish speaking, because letting him finish that sentence might make Ratio reconsider.

Aventurine closes the distance between them. He slides his hand down and grabs Ratio’s chin, pulling Ratio in for a slow, careful kiss. To say the sensation is odd… would be an understatement.

While it is true Ratio has never pursued romance and thusly never kissed before, the coldness of Aventurine’s chapped lips alone has an unnatural strangeness to it. 

However…

Ratio would not classify it as being bad, per se. 

Before he has time to get accustomed to the feeling, Aventurine pulls back, and Ratio swallows a disappointed whine. Aventurine’s hand stays on his face. “Haha, don’t make that face. Just… the kitchen isn’t really appropriate for this, don’t you think?” he points out, and Ratio suddenly remembers their surroundings. The unwashed dishes, the…

Ah.

His eyes fall on Aventurine’s glass.

“If… if we are to proceed… I ask that you clean your mouth.” 

Aventurine nods. “Done. Just get comfortable on the couch, alright?” 

While Aventurine goes upstairs Ratio goes to the living room, somewhat awkwardly sitting down in one of the luxurious couches. The cushion doesn’t dip, indicating that Aventurine hardly uses this particular one. He scans the room, wondering if Aventurine uses any of them at all. Would an undead have a need for comfort, or is Aventurine merely flaunting his riches?

Aventurine returns while Ratio is deep in thought. A hand on his shoulder startles Ratio from his thoughts. Aventurine sits down next to him, their legs pressed flush together. The closeness is enough to make Ratio’s cheeks dust a light red.

“All done. Still game, Ratio?”

“Try to use other phrases,” Ratio remarks with a sigh. “But yes. I am. Proceed.” 

Aventurine snickers, but Ratio doesn’t have a chance to ask what is so funny about his words because Aventurine’s lips are on his again. He tastes vaguely of peppermint and mouthwash. He licks at Ratio’s bottom lip, then presses his tongue between Ratio’s lips, gently coaxing them open.

He licks into Ratio’s mouth. Ratio makes a noise akin to a moan, and Aventurine eagerly laps it up. 

Believing that any healthy relationship, regardless of how deep it goes, benefits from mutual reciprocation, Ratio tries to do the same, only for his tongue to hit one of Aventurine’s fangs, and ah, yes, this man… this man that is kissing him…

He makes an odd noise. Though he manages to shake off the thought that Aventurine could very well kill him, Aventurine pulls away, lightly stroking Ratio’s cheek as his other hand wanders further down Ratio’s body. Despite his cool temperature, Ratio’s body still heats up under his touch. Arousal pools low in his abdomen, making him shudder.

“I don’t need to breathe, but you do,” Aventurine points out, and Ratio almost groans at how he hadn’t even thought of that himself. He nods dumbly, and after taking a few deep breaths, he cautiously presses his lips against Aventurine’s again.

Aventurine strokes his hip in circles. Ratio likes to believe he has a better grasp on kissing the second time around, though to Aventurine… well, he might just ask the man to give him some pointers, if they are to do this more often. 

More often…

Aventurine’s hand teases at the waistband of his pants and Ratio suddenly seizes his wrist. He breaks the kiss, met with Aventurine’s frowning face. “No. Not yet.” 

Aventurine retracts his hand, pursing his lips. He visibly flinches at the abruptness of Ratio’s words, his posture once again rigid. His brows furrow deeper. 

Ratio reaches over to put a reassuring hand on Aventurine’s shoulder. Or, at least, that is the intent behind his gesture. “I… I am interested, however, I… cannot… copulate without having bathed. It… would not feel right,” he admits, swallowing thickly.

Aventurine tilts his head curiously. Then, he laughs, softly, and presses a chaste kiss to Ratio’s lips. “Copulate, Ratio? Really? But fine. I can respect that.” 

Ratio averts his gaze. “That… it would be the correct term,” he replies.

Aventurine stares at his crotch a moment too long for it to be an accidental glance. Ratio almost fears rejection, but Aventurine just shrugs and gives a slight smile. “Alright. We’ll copulate…” He trails off, and the look in his eyes turns slightly unsure. “...Another time…?” He does not intend to phrase it as a question, Ratio deduces, but the vampire’s nerves appear to get to him, as well.

Ratio squeezes his shoulder. “Yes, I… next time. Next time, we will… engage in such a manner. However, I cannot promise how far I am willing to go. This is… novel. I have never engaged with another person as such.” 

Aventurine nods. “That’s fine. Even if you reconsider—” 

“Aventurine.” Ratio sees fit to cut him off there, shaking his head. “I have made my choice after thorough deliberation. Though I might be retiring to my stay for the night… this does not change. I am not as capricious as you.” 

Aventurine swallows. Around what? Does he produce saliva? Or… is it Ratio’s saliva still inside his mouth? Ratio feels almost scandalized at that. “Of course, doc. I’m disappointed you didn’t extend your stay, but… well, I’m always a text away.” 

“It was far too gaudy for my tastes and an utter waste of your money,” Ratio says. “As am I.” But before Aventurine gets any ideas, he quickly adds, “Not for idle chatter, mind you. I require ample rest, unlike you.” 

“Haha, don’t worry, I won’t bother you at night, as tempting as it is. I’ll just bother you in the morning. Ooh, I could be your alarm! Now isn’t that an idea?”

“I fear you would cause me a headache first thing in the morning,” Ratio remarks dryly, shaking his head. He stands up, and Aventurine accompanies him to the door. Just as he is about to leave, Ratio remembers something. He reaches into his bag, grabbing the book he lent from Aventurine. “I ought to return this. It was a fascinating read.” 

But Aventurine holds up a hand and shakes his head. “No need. I only put it there so you’d see it.” 

Embarrassment creeps up on Ratio again. Yes, with everything he’s said… that certainly adds up. He clears his throat. “I see. However, you… you really should give it a read,” he says, stumbling over his words a little. 

Aventurine doesn’t comment on it. Ratio is thankful for that, but he believes that come the morrow, he will no longer be spared. “Alright. I’ll give it a look. But after that, I’m giving it to you. I’ll just sneakily slip it into your bag.” 

Ratio has to laugh softly at that. “...There truly is no dissuading you. But I suppose if you must gift me something… I far prefer literary works over whatever nonsensical luxuries you carelessly throw your money at.” 

“Point taken. And noted.” 

Ratio sighs. “That is not an invitation for you to gift me books whenever you deem fit, gambler. Keep your money to yourself.” 

“No promises,” Aventurine hums. His features ease into a gentle smile. He holds out his free hand, and Ratio takes it. Aventurine brings Ratio’s hand up to his lips, pressing a soft kiss against his skin. “I’ll see you tomorrow then, Ratio.” 

Ratio stares at where their hands are interlocked, reluctant to pull away. “...Indeed. Until tomorrow… Aventurine.” 

Chapter Text

Come the morrow, Ratio finds aggravatingly little process in his discoveries. It is not because he’s particularly occupied by thoughts of Aventurine and their night prior, mind you, he would never let his mind wander to something so infantile, he merely…

He’s hesitating, he knows. The idea of injecting Aventurine’s blood into his veins, simple an idea as it is, is daunting indeed. Neither of them know exactly what would occur, thusly Ratio can only theorize. 

And oh, he’s so fond of theorizing, usually, but the drive to do so escapes him today as his theories turn from bad to worse, sending him down a mental spiral he puts to a halt before it has time to take off. Rubbing his temples, he parts with an aggravated sigh. 

He’s behind. Behind on his research, behind on his teachings, on everything else he put aside for the sake of humanity’s future, and still, he… he loiters at Aventurine’s house at 7 PM, time he could’ve spent furthering his research. 

Reasonably, he knows not to pursue any further when he’s hit a snag—it would not yield the results that he, nay, that the entire human race needs, but there’s a nagging feeling of guilt regardless.

He needs a bath, and yet…

He’s sitting down on Aventurine’s couch, rubbing his head. The master of the house is looking through a pamphlet, eyebrow raised. “You’re giving a lecture this Friday? Ratio, you really should give yourself more breaks. If you’re serious about what you want to do tomorrow—” 

Ratio holds up a hand. “I know,” he responds curtly. “If… if this were to go wrong, then…” 

Then what? All of humanity is doomed? Certainly, Ratio knows a fair amount, and he’s considered the best attempt at curing this new disease, but he isn’t arrogant enough to believe that the research he leaves behind will not get into the hands of another, be it greedy capitalist, or…

Ratio palms his chin. “Aventurine.” 

Aventurine releases the pamphlet, letting it flutter down to rest on the coffee table. “Yes?” 

“If something were to go awry… if my life were to be lost, I entrust you with ensuring that my research falls into the right hands.” 

Aventurine’s brows shoot up. He steps between Ratio’s legs, leans in, and presses a cold hand to Ratio’s head. “Huh. I can’t tell if you have a fever or not. You, trusting me?” 

“Do not be ridiculous,” Ratio hisses, batting his hand away. “Or have you forgotten what has transpired yesterday? Did I not accept your… your advances? That requires a degree of trust, does it not?” 

“True,” Aventurine agrees, taking the seat next to Ratio. “Actually, about that… can I touch you today? Before you get on me for being a pervert with ulterior motives, aren’t you just a little too stressed for your own good, doctor? I believe I can help with that, if you catch my drift… aha, I forgot, you’re a virgin, you probably don’t know about that.” Aventurine’s eyes crinkle with mirth. 

Ratio’s lip twitches. “Must you bring that up again? I believe we already established that, but do not think me clueless. There are plenty of studies on the merits of intercourse.” 

Aventurine snorts. “Sorry, am I mishearing you, or have you done reading about sex?” Ratio just throws him a flat look. 

“Do not ask questions you already know the answers to.”

Aventurine smirks. “Oh, doc… haha, that’s cute. Adorable. You’re so endearing, you know that?”

Heat rises to Ratio’s cheek. “If you continue down this path, I will change my answer to a definitive no,” he warns.

Of course, that’s not what Aventurine focuses on. “Oh? So you already agreed? Well… if you’re sure, then I suppose…” Aventurine alights a hand on Ratio’s middle, slowly traveling down his side.

Again, Ratio stops him by seizing his wrist. “Are you—not on the couch! This is—this is hardly the appropriate place! And I have yet to bathe.” 

Aventurine holds his hands up in mock surrender. “Alright, alright. Come on, I’ll take you upstairs, before you explode on me again.” 

Ratio decides not to deign Aventurine’s quip with a reply and simply motions for the man to get a move on. He follows behind, and takes a look around once upstairs. It’s just as gaudy as the rest of his house, not decorated with its owner's aesthetics in mind.

Or so he assumes—Ratio hasn’t the faintest clue of what Aventurine would like in decor, nor does he care to ask.

Aventurine stops in front of a door with a golden handle. He turns to Ratio. “Here we are. Take your time, but don’t be too long, okay? I might be immortal, but that doesn’t mean my patience is endless…” He trails off with a soft, suggestive chuckle, wetting his lips as his eyes meet Ratio’s. His fangs glisten with the brief flash Ratio catches of them. He shudders, equal amounts of anticipation and trepidation.

“I would not want to impose on your hospitality,” Ratio responds flatly, his chest aflutter with strange emotions pertaining to their impending act of intimacy of the sexual variant.

“Oh, speaking of my hospitality, feel free to use any of the bathrobes. Don’t worry, they’re all brand new, and I never really thought about wearing them. If you need a change of clothes—” 

“Your clothes would not fit me,” Ratio cuts in.

Aventurine just smiles. “I know,” he replies with a purr, “I just so happen to have some extras.” 

Ratio pinches the bridge of his nose and opens his mouth to accuse Aventurine of buying clothes just for the off-chance of Ratio coming over to perform intercourse, but he gives pause. He shouldn’t assume such things so readily. His answer is a shake of the head with a sigh.

He turns the handle and steps into the bathroom, first surveying the space from the doorway. Where Ratio’s own bathroom is intricately tailored to his own tastes, Aventurine’s is barren. Clean, certainly, with a fairly large bathtub, but its condition tells Ratio that its owner far prefers a shower to a bath.

A terrible waste of such an extravagant and expensive piece of furniture. The door clicks shut behind him and Ratio eyes the lock for a moment before he ultimately decides against locking the door. 

Turning the faucet, he slowly strips out of his clothes, and utilizes his time waiting for the tub to fill looking around more. 

Aventurine has a sizable collection of colognes and perfumes by the bathroom sink, all neatly organized. The products he spots in the shower Ratio knows cost a fortune—combined with everything else he finds here, Aventurine’s tally is well beyond what Ratio deems acceptable. He scoffs. Does Aventurine collect these bottles simply due to the brands attached to them, or does he genuinely like the scents? Either way, Ratio sees many opportunities to opt for cheaper options, mentally noting down which are easily replaceable before he catches himself.

Veritas Ratio values manners, and it would be unbecoming of him to lecture Aventurine on his spending habits after Aventurine so graciously allowed Ratio not only into his home, but his bathroom as well. Certainly, he has his motives, thinks Ratio as he glimpses his own nude form in the mirror, but he’s being hospitable nonetheless.

Once the bathtub fills up, Ratio slowly gets in, a soft, pleased moan leaving his lips as the warm waves lap at his skin and do wonders for his weary mind. Though he misses the presence of a book, the purpose of his bath is not to unlax, but rather to clean, and join Aventurine in…

In the bedroom.

Ratio draws a breath.

Intercourse.

For Ratio, who hardly spares his own libido even a fleeting thought, such a concept felt foreign for the longest time. He neither craved nor sought it out, yet when he remembers the way Aventurine had so eagerly touched his body upon being given consent to do so, impatient to get to it immediately… Ratio shudders, heat coiling in his gut.

It truly is a shame, that for the remainder of his bath, his thoughts are occupied with the possibilities of what Aventurine might do for him, as despite critiquing its interior and barrenness, Aventurine truly does have a bath Ratio deems acceptable.

Ratio enters Aventurine’s bedroom with a bathrobe tied around his middle and a pair of house slippers Aventurine had left for him outside. He finds Aventurine himself lounging on his bed—and just like everything else he owns, it is far too large to be anything but an attempt at flaunting his money.

However, unlike the living room, there is a distinct difference in decorations. Ratio deduces Aventurine to have a fondness of the color black with golden accents; for it is the theme of his bedsheets, his pillows, and lastly… that of the clothes he’s wearing.

Aventurine’s gaze meets his. Aventurine beckons him by curling his index finger in a coke-hither motion. Without his gloves, Ratio spots the faintest of scars littering his skin. His fingers are slightly crooked, as if they’d not developed properly or were subjected to something more sinister. 

Ratio doesn’t ask. It isn’t his place to pry.

He approaches the bed after drawing a deep inhale, stopping right by Aventurine’s side.

Aventurine smirks. “Hello, doctor,” he purrs, “Still game? You look ravishing in that bathrobe, by the way.” 

The bathrobe leaves little to the imagination—Ratio is aware his own physique might be attractive to a certain crowd, and clearly, it affects Aventurine much the same.

“Obviously,” he replies, crossing his arms over his chest, unintentionally squeezing his pecs together. Aventurine openly ogles him. “I trust you have a plan on how to proceed?” 

Aventurine hums. “Sure, I can think of a few things, but since I apparently have to be the voice of reason here… what don’t you like, Ratio? Also, sit down! We’re going to get much closer, soon enough.” He taps the spot next to him. Ratio takes a seat, his posture a tad awkward.

He palms his chin at Aventurine’s uncharacteristic reasonable inquiry. “Firstly, I believe I should make it clear to you that I—”

“—Have a pussy, yes,” Aventurine finishes for him, smirking. “I kind of figured that out from your copulation comment. No problems here, though.” Aventurine leans over, patting Ratio’s thigh. Ratio shivers involuntarily, be it at the coldness of Aventurine’s touch or the proceeding caress of his fingers, slowly traveling higher. He looks at Ratio, waiting. 

“…Very well then. Your vulgarity aside, your insight is not lacking.” He takes a moment to think—what does he dislike, exactly? Ratio looks Aventurine up and down. Only one thing pops to mind. “I will not have your fangs anywhere near my labia. If you must kiss something, then my lips are all I am willing to offer you presently.”

“Fair enough,” Aventurine replies, but there’s a twinge of disappointment in his voice. Perhaps he’d intended to perform oral? Ratio shudders at the thought. He does not trust Aventurine to such a degree—not quite yet. “Anything else?”

“Lubricate your fingers properly before you attempt any kind of penetration. You may rub my clitoris if you so desire, but I ask you to keep your hand strictly to my genitals. I do not wish to go further than your fingers for today, though I am open to stimulating you as you do me.” 

Aventurine nods. “Done. How about your chest?”

Ratio cocks an eyebrow. “My… chest?”

“Yeah. Your chest. Heavens, doctor, do you know how much self-control it’s taking for me not to just grab your tits? You look like a sculpture. ”

Ratio blinks, somewhat bewildered. “I—you—I simply have a muscular physique, but even I am not oblivious to how it might be attractive. Do refrain from using such crude language, lest you wish to do away with my libido before we even begin.” He shakes his head. He evens out his breathing, trying to hide the way heat creeps into his face, dyeing his cheeks a light shade of pink. “But… I suppose I am not averse to having my chest touched.”

Aventurine wets his lips. “Perfect.” 

Slender fingers carefully untie the bathrobe Ratio wears. Aventurine pushes the fabric off Ratio’s shoulders, letting it pool around his elbows. Ratio shivers; both in anticipation, and from the coldness of Aventurine’s touch. Aventurine lightly drags his fingertips down Ratio’s arms, tracing the curves of his musculature. Ratio sucks in a breath. There’s a certain thrill to feel another’s fingers touch his body, with their destination yet unknown. 

“You’re so handsome,” Aventurine praises, dragging his hands back up. He splays his fingers out across Ratio’s shoulders, sliding them down to his chest with added pressure. The pads of his fingers graze Ratio’s nipples, his body trembling tellingly. Aventurine’s lips graze his ear and he wraps them around Ratio’s earlobe, lightly pulling on it.

A moan falls from Ratio’s lips. He sets his jaw, a flush rising to his cheek at permitting such a lewd noise to be drawn out from merely having his chest touched and his earlobe pulled on. His heartbeat picks up, and despite Aventurine’s cold body temperature, Ratio feels warm to the touch.

“So sensitive,” Aventurine comments with a light chuckle, nipping at Ratio’s earlobe before he pulls away.

“Astute observation,” Ratio replies flatly—or so he tries, but his voice hiccups strangely, a twinge of pleasure to his tone when Aventurine’s index finger circles his areola, slowly coaxing his nipple into a hardened bud. “We… established that this is my first time participating in any such— mm…” Aventurine flicks Ratio’s nipple with his thumb and Ratio’s defense melts on the tip of his tongue, lost to another moan.

“You get defensive when you’re embarrassed,” Aventurine hums, “It’s cute.” 

Ratio scoffs. “ Cute is hardly an apt descriptor for my physique. I implore you to get your eyes checked.” Then there’s the light brush of Aventurine’s lips against his neck, and Ratio freezes up. “Do not do that.” 

Aventurine sighs; it’s a quiet noise, but Ratio hears the frown in that simple gust of air. He falters for a moment, hands frozen where they were previously stimulating Ratio’s nipples eagerly. Ratio exhales at length and amends his previously colder tone. “I would prefer it if you kept your fangs away from my skin. Regardless of your attraction to me, you remain a threat to my existence. However… If you truly wish to keep your mouth occupied with something other than uttering nonsense… You may kiss my lips.”

Aventurine perks up a little. He ghosts the back of a nail along Ratio’s aerola, lightly, so very lightly scratching at his nipple. Ratio sucks in a gasp. “How generous of you, doc. Ha, but you’re right. You really shouldn’t trust a vampire—or me, out of all people. Who knows what I have up my sleeve…”

Is that intended to be self-deprecating? Ratio cannot parse Aventurine’s tone, but he does not press it. 

He chooses to give a candid response, “Indeed I do not. Now, as you were.” 

Aventurine huffs in amusement, “Someone’s impatient.” 

“I see no reason to indulge in idle chatter while preparing oneself for intercourse. It is a waste of our collective time,” Ratio reasons.

“As I said, impatient,” Aventurine repeats, taking Ratio’s nipples between his thumbs and index fingers. There’s only light pressure, but anticipation runs down Ratio’s spine in a shiver. “Well, you won’t catch me complaining. I’ve wanted to do this since we first met… you’re too handsome, Ratio. Ah, but now that I have you, I really want to take my time with you. Discover new things about you. How cute you are when you’re trying to deflect, for example.” 

Ratio’s eye twitches. “Was it not your wish to copulate? Then do get on with it. Unlike you, I do not have all night.” 

Aventurine laughs salaciously. “Alright, I got the hint. Now, why don’t we see what you like best?” He doesn’t wait for a response despite asking a question. Contrary, if you’d ask Ratio, but manners aren’t at the forefront of his brain when Aventurine adds pressure on his nipples, rolling the hardened nubs between his fingers. Ratio’s back arches in a slight curve, a whine tumbling from his lips. The sensation slowly spreads through his body, accumulating in his abdominal region. His cunt clenches around nothing as Aventurine slowly stimulates his nerves. His arousal builds at a steady pace. 

“Mm… you’re so sensitive,” Aventurine repeats.

“Ob… obviously,” Ratio breathes, “There are— ah, hundreds of nerve endings in the nipple, making them— mm, erogenous zones…” 

Aventurine blinks. He looks at Ratio for a moment, bemused, and then breaks into a toothy grin. “You know, coming from anyone else, that would’ve been an instant turn-off. You, doctor… you make it sound sexy. I almost want to ask you to tell me more.” 

Ratio is, admittedly, a little distracted by those deadly fangs so openly on display. His body runs cold, and he’s acutely aware of just what Aventurine could do to him if he so wished again, especially with his guard so low… 

“Uh, Ratio? Still with me there?” 

Ratio snaps back to reality, pushing unwanted imagery out of his head. “Yes,” he replies tersely, bringing a hand up to pinch the bridge of his nose. “Forgive me. I am merely apprehensive.”

Aventurine pulls his hands away, laying them on his lap. “Do you want to stop?” he asks in a voice so gentle Ratio hadn’t thought him capable of. He catches a glimpse of sorrow—of regret in Aventurine’s eyes despite his ever-present smile. He makes no moves while he waits for Ratio to reply.

Ratio thinks on it for a minute or so. Every flash of Aventurine’s fangs puts his already low libido at risk, and he’s far more exposed than Aventurine himself. Nothing in Aventurine oozes warmth—in the physical sense. His touches are cold, yet they do set Ratio’s skin on fire with their tenderness, knowing precisely where to touch.

He rubs his head. “No,” he says. “I do wish to copulate with you. My body is merely reacting naturally to the presence of a predator. I… do not know if my arousal will be enough to allow for penetration.” 

Aventurine moves a hand to Ratio’s thigh, telegraphing his movements. “That’s alright. We don’t have to go all the way tonight.” 

Ratio frowns. “Are you certain? Do you not wish for reciprocation?” 

Aventurine shakes his head. “Not tonight. You were right. I haven’t fed much, recently. This—” He gestures at his boxers, only a small bulge visible, “---Is the best I can do.” 

Fascinating. Ratio palms his chin, tilting his head at an angle. “Fascinating. The penis would indeed need ample blood to form an erection…” 

Aventurine snorts. “Well, at least you’re not calling me small. I wish I could get bigger for you, Ratio… haah, your body definitely deserves that. Maybe if I make it a regular habit to eat a little more, I’ll be able to show you what I’m really capable of.” 

Ratio rolls his eyes. “Of course you would have such a misguided, crude motivation. However, as it counts towards something, I will let it slide.” 

“How generous of you, doctor. Lay down for me?” 

Ratio goes to lay down, but pauses. “Indulge a request of mine first. Do not call me doctor in bed. It is highly inappropriate. My name will do.” 

Aventurine nods, making room for Ratio. He fluffs up the pillows first, watching on as Ratio slowly lays down. He does not take his eyes off of Aventurine, still plagued with the anxiety that Aventurine might do something unexpected. His posture is rigid even as his back is met with Aventurine’s comfortable mattress, and he folds his hands on his chest, his thighs pressed together.

“Noted,” Aventurine says, emphasizing on the ‘d’ sound. “Veritas.” 

Ratio shivers involuntarily at the sensual whisper of his name. 

Aventurine smiles, keeping his lips pressed together. He’s conscious about showing his teeth, and Ratio finds that he appreciates it. “Never had someone say your name like that?” 

Physical comfort aside, Aventurine continues to tease him, and Ratio averts his gaze, flushing a deeper red. “If you must know, no, I have not. You are my first sexual partner. How often are you going to make me repeat myself? I tire of this.”  

“Haha, come on, I want to make this moment special for you,” Aventurine titters. 

“Then quit dallying.” 

Ratio knows well the one who interrupted their session had been himself, but a myriad of complicated emotions swirling around in his head combined with the pounding of his heart—equal amounts of anticipation as adrenaline, all he knows to do is to get on the defensive. He does not feel comfortable with emotional vulnerability. Especially not now.

“Finally.” Aventurine moves a hand to Ratio’s thigh, but Ratio gently seizes his wrist, stopping him. Aventurine frowns, opening his mouth to undoubtedly ask again whether or not Ratio really wants this, but Ratio speaks before Aventurine has the chance to.

“Tell me what you are planning to do.” 

To his surprise, Aventurine is quick to comply. “I want to touch your clit and finger you. Maybe play with your nipples a little. I know it’s your first time, so I’ll stick to one orgasm—unless you want more, of course. How’s that sound, Veritas?” 

Oh, Ratio wishes Aventurine would stop saying his name like that—heat pools low in his gut, and he presses his thighs together even more firmly to prevent himself from doing something as unbefitting of him as squirming. He thinks about Aventurine’s offer, inhaling sharply. “I accept, on the grounds that you remain within my line of sight and tell me if you wish to kiss me.” 

“Sure, can do.” Aventurine agrees readily, but Ratio picks up on his detached tone. Had Aventurine expected something different? Perhaps he’d wished for Ratio to be more enthusiastic, or less frightened of him? Though Ratio does not think Aventurine would attempt anything, he knows not to blindly trust a vampire he knows next to nothing about, shrouded in mystery with a smile that always masks his true emotions. 

Yet… part of him wishes that, perhaps, would another time occur… 

Yes. He wishes to copulate with Aventurine. Properly. He desires to trust this mystery of a man who agreed to help him save the human race on a whim, in exchange for bloodbags and little else.

Deep down… 

Ratio hopes that his intuition does not fail him.

That Aventurine is a good person. 

Decent, at the very least. The cracks in his facade speak of a deep-seated hurt that brings with it questions about Aventurine’s past. Questions Ratio will not force upon him, but questions he is curious about nonetheless. There is more to Aventurine than Aventurine himself claims; he is anything but a simple vampire.

Almost impulsively, Ratio glides his fingers down Aventurine’s wrist to cover Aventurine’s hand with his own, and squeezes it. Aventurine’s pupils flex wider, and a different smile falls on his lips. He reciprocates, slowly bringing Ratio’s hand up to his face. “May I?” 

Ratio nods. Aventurine maintains eye contact as he kisses each of Ratio’s knuckles individually, his lips cold but remarkably soft. His gaze is one of smoldering embers, and Ratio could very well find himself getting lost in those eyes. 

Aventurine tenderly lays Ratio’s hand down on his chest. Ratio clasps his hands together, realizing that some of the tension has left his body. He slowly shifts his thighs apart. “You may proceed,” he says, tilting his head to the side as he gestures at his vagina. 

Aventurine whistles low. “Don’t mind if I do…” he trails off with a soft groan, pressing a fingertip against Ratio’s labia. Ratio gasps at the sudden coldness of Aventurine’s touch, providing a stark contrast to his own rising temperature. 

Ratio chances a look at Aventurine. Aventurine is staring at his vagina as if it were the most magnificent piece of art he’d ever had the honor of laying his eyes on, and such unfamiliar attention is making Ratio feel uncharacteristically bashful. He shifts his gaze to Aventurine’s chest, and utters, “I told you that you may proceed, yet you still insist on— oh!” 

Aventurine cuts Ratio’s snappy remark short by spreading Ratio’s outer lips with his other hand, dipping a finger inside. Ratio gasps his surprise, a shuddering breath leaving him when he feels Aventurine’s fingertip catch on his entrance.

“Ahaha, I’d almost think I’ve lost my charm—you’re not even that wet yet!” 

“I am bedding a vampire. Forgive me for experiencing a normal bodily reaction of fright. The fact that I am agreeing to this in and of itself… I question my own judgment,” Ratio admits with a sigh, meeting Aventurine’s eyes again. He isn’t particularly shocked to see them devoid of any emotion at Ratio’s words, though Ratio presses on. “...Therefore, I must give some credit to this so-called charm of yours. Either that, or I have lost my mind.” 

Aventurine laughs softly. It’s a pleasant sound, Ratio thinks idly. It different from the laughs he fakes, or those smug chuckles of his. Certainly, that display of his fangs makes Ratio apprehensive once again, but Aventurine covers his mouth with the back of his hand when he notices, dropping it to rest on Ratio’s thigh after. 

“You? Losing your mind? Well, maybe you have, if you’re serious about taking me up on my offer, but… haha, no. I think the world would sooner end than you losing your mind, Veritas.” And Aventurine says his name in such a gentle, conversational tone, that Ratio almost smiles.

Almost.

Because Aventurine chooses that exact moment to slide his fingers up Ratio’s cunt, and Ratio’s lip trembles. Aventurine’s careful touches indicate he’s searching for something—the clitoris, most likely—and Ratio outright whimpers when he feels just the barest of brushes against the sensitive nub, only for Aventurine’s fingers to stray from their mark. “Aventurine…”

“Grab my wrist,” Aventurine tells him, pausing his movements, “Guide me to where it feels good.” 

Ratio swallows thickly, nodding. “A wise suggestion.” His voice wavers, owing to his building pleasure, and the thrill of having another’s fingers on his vagina. He’d never given it much thought before, but whenever Aventurine’s fingers barely graze his clit… oh, he wants.

He takes hold of Aventurine’s wrist, his face screwed up in concentration as he tries to pinpoint the exact location of the clitoris and get Aventurine’s fingers where he needs them, and—

“Ah—there,” Ratio moans once they hit their mark, throwing his arm over his forehead. “Right… there.” 

Aventurine, despite not needing to, draws a deep breath, swallowing thickly. “Heavens, Veritas, that… okay. Tell me if it gets too much, or if you want it different.” And with that said, Aventurine starts moving his fingers.

A jolt of pleasure sets Ratio’s nerves alight. His muscles tense and tremble on instinct, his hole, again, clenching around nothing, the emptiness almost maddening.

However… with Aventurine’s plans, could it not be remedied?

“A– Ah venturine, your… finger. Pene—penetrate me,” he gasps, “If you… mm, would…” 

“Oh, will I…” Aventurine purrs, his tone dipping a few octaves. With his thumb rubbing circles against Ratio’s clit, he slowly breaches Ratio’s hole with his index finger, careful, his eyes flicking to Ratio’s face to watch for any signs of discomfort. He stops past the first knuckle, giving Ratio the time to acclimate to the strange sensation. He must feel Ratio clench around him a little, as he resumes rubbing Ratio’s clit in circular motions, adding light pressure.

Ratio’s right hand grabs a fistful of Aventurine’s silken bedsheets. He moans, eyelids fluttering. Aventurine’s finger goes deeper when it meets little resistance, and he slowly pumps it, providing that extra stimulation Ratio’s body has been craving so.

“Ah…” Another moan slips past his parted lips. Nevertheless, he watches Aventurine’s face closely, and Aventurine looks away from his vagina to meet Ratio’s gaze. 

“Is now a good time to ask if I can kiss you?” Aventurine asks, tone playful. 

“Yes, you… ah, you may,” Ratio agrees. Aventurine bends down, pressing his lips against Ratio’s.

Soft. Tasting vaguely of the honeyed chapstick he apparently uses. He does not part them, nor does his tongue prod at Ratio’s lips—he’s overly mindful of Ratio’s comfort, and yet, as he keeps thrusting his finger and rubbing Ratio’s clitoris… Ratio finds himself aching for something more.

He boldly licks at Aventurine’s lips, hoping to coax them open. Aventurine makes a surprised noise, but Ratio is persistent, repeating the movement a second time. Aventurine picks up, inhaling through his nose as he carefully parts his lips, slipping his tongue into Ratio’s mouth. 

Ratio moans, clenching down around Aventurine’s finger. Yes. This is what he wants. He might not trust Aventurine’s fangs elsewhere on his body, but their kiss the day prior had left him desiring more. Veritas Ratio isn’t necessarily a greedy man by nature, however, such intimacy appears to draw out sides of him he’d never thought himself capable of.

One of those being arousal itself.

He feels how slick he is around Aventurine’s finger, and the consistent pressure on his clitoris only has him producing more. 

Perhaps… the ever-patient Ratio might have a streak of im patience in bed, as he soon finds that, again, he wants more. 

Breaking the kiss for a lack of oxygen, he lays his head back down on the pillows, panting. He watches the strand of saliva connecting their lips snap in two, breathing softly as Aventurine leans in and licks the excess saliva off Ratio’s skin. He draws back, his cheeks a faint pink.

He almost looks lively, were it not for his pallid complexion. Ratio doesn’t think too hard on it—to think that Aventurine’s bodily reactions are all inherently related to the consumption of human blood isn’t quite suited for the current atmosphere.

Besides, with his arousal fogging up his mind, he thinks there are far better things to focus on, such as, “Harder,” he gasps a demand, then, “More.” 

“Aah, Veritas, you really are needy, aren’t you? But don’t worry, I like that part of you, too,” Aventurine coos, eyes twinkling with delight. He quickens his pace and pushes down on Ratio’s clit harder, pushing Ratio closer to that edge.

“I—I see no reason to, ah, deny myself of my des-desires, not when you… mmm!” His words fade to his moans, thighs trembling in anticipation of his climax. Aventurine’s middle finger circles his hole, and he very briefly pushes it in together with his index finger, making Ratio keen. 

“That’s hot, you know. I do like a man who knows what he wants… and oh, you’re so wet. Do you want a second one? I can pull it out if it’s too much,” Aventurine offers.

Ratio just shakes his head. “In,” he gasps, “I—I am… I seem to be…” 

“Are you close?” 

Ratio nods almost frantically. “Ye-es, oh…”

He watches how Aventurine’s eyes close for a moment and how the man takes a few seconds to compose himself, clearly affected by Ratio’s open display of pleasure. When his eyes are back on Ratio, the sheer desire in them is almost overwhelming. Aventurine plunges his fingers deeper inside and then takes them out, swapping his thumb for his slick fingers. He takes Ratio’s engorged clit between said fingers, rubbing it in a back-and-forth motion.

Ratio’s jaw hangs slack. “Yes,” he hisses, bucking his hips. “Yes, Aventurine— ah!” 

Close. He’s so close. Pleasure courses through his entire body, setting his nerves alight. His muscles snap taut as he approaches the edge, closer and closer, and when Aventurine tugs on his clitoris, Ratio reaches his peak.

To say he has never experienced an orgasm before would be false—but it had only been by his own hands, and he hardly recalls how long ago it was, nor waas it particularly memorable. A simple way to relieve stress.

This, however…

Coming undone at Aventurine’s hands is entirely different. Aventurine keeps rubbing his clit even as Ratio’s body twitches and spasms with the intensity of his climax, a chorus of high-pitched noises leaving him. Only when he gets to the point of oversensitivity and bats at Aventurine’s wrist does Aventurine pull away, however, the greedy gambler isn’t sated quite yet.

He makes sure that Ratio is watching, then brings his hand to his mouth, and wraps his lips around the fingers covered in Ratio’s slick. He moans as he licks them clean, making an obscenely lewd slurping noise in the process. Ratio thinks he should be disgusted by it, but his arousal stirs, again, and he has to draw deep, even breaths to calm himself.

“How do you feel?” Aventurine asks after wiping his hand on his clothes, warranting a scolding from Ratio, but Ratio isn’t particularly inclined to, not now.

Ratio thinks on the state of his body for a moment. Something quickly becomes abundantly clear to him. “...Sticky. Fetch me a towel of sorts, if you would.” He rubs his head, still coming down from his high. “...Please.” 

“Ah, he does know how to be polite! Okay, I’ll be back in a moment.” And Aventurine is out the door before Ratio has a chance to retort. He pushes himself to sit up with a groan, going over what had just happened.

Most of all, over what Aventurine had not done.

He hadn’t taken advantage of Ratio. He’d telegraphed his intentions very concisely, and asked Ratio’s consent before doing something new.

A part of him still clings to the suspicion that Aventurine is merely lulling Ratio into a false sense of security, but his rational mind hardly finds any evidence to back up this claim. Just because Aventurine is of a species that preys on humans and has his… quirks, doesn’t particularly mean he’s out to kill Ratio. 

No, if Aventurine’s actions and words are to be believed… it’s quite the opposite. With a sight, Ratio leans against the pillows, and closes his eyes for a moment.

Aventurine returns a short while later with a towel and a bottle of water. Ratio gratefully accepts both, only feeling at ease once he’s cleaned himself of his own bodily fluids and taking a few sips of the water. “Thank you,” he says.

“No sweat,” Aventurine replies with a dismissive shrug.

Ratio hums non-comitally. “Earlier, you asked how I was feeling. I do believe I owe you a response.” Aventurine says nothing—he leans his chin on his palm, waiting for Ratio to continue. “I must admit, that was rather pleasant. And I would not be opposed to a repeat performance, as it proves beneficial to my mental well-being,” he reasons.

Aventurine laughs, “Just say that you like sex, doc, it’s fine. I won’t judge.” 

“But you will certainly hold such claims over my head,” Ratio replies with a sigh, taking another sip of water. 

“Maybe. Are you staying the night?” 

Ratio considers it for a moment. Though he does not think Aventurine is out to kill him…

He shakes his head. “No. I will return to my stay after I have recovered. However, until then, I believe I must rest my body a moment longer.” 

Aventurine doesn’t seem particularly fazed by Ratio’s response, just nodding his head. “If you need a private driver to take you back, I can arrange one,” he offers.

“No need,” Ratio replies, “My own car is parked nearby.” 

“If your legs don’t work, you have my number,” Aventurine teases with a grin. Ratio groans.

“My legs work fine, I assure you.” 

“Of course they do,” Aventurine snorts. “Well, anyway, I’ll swing by tomorrow morning, then?” 

Ratio opens his mouth to decline, but he knows better than that. Besides, agreeing would give Aventurine an incentive to be on time. He nods curtly. “Very well. Do try not to be late, or I will be leaving without you.” 

“You’re so mean to me,” Aventurine faux-whines, “Even after I made you feel so good… but I’ll be on time. You have my word. Tomorrow is the day, after all.”

Right. Ratio intends to inject himself with a small dosage of Aventurine’s blood. Though it is not ideal to test on himself, he would not willingly test it on another human. Besides, regardless of what blood type Aventurine has consumed, Ratio is AB positive, thusly such matters would not come into play too much, though there remain elements of uncertainty that even he cannot predict.

He nods starkly. “Indeed it is.” 

“Nervous?” Aventurine asks.

“Naturally,” Ratio replies, “However, if something were to go awry…” 

“I know. I’ll make sure your research ends up in the right hands. Just… don’t die on me so soon, alright?” 

Ratio musters a faint smile. “I cannot make any guarantees… but I do believe I have a better chance of survival with you by my side.” 

Aventurine’s eyes soften. “You don’t have to flatter me, Ratio, but thank you.” 

Ratio inclines his head in a nod. He shifts a little, tensing and then relaxing his muscles all by one. He idly thinks that if he were to close his eyes, he could fall asleep within the comfort of Aventurine’s bed. That thought is what ultimately snaps him awake, and when he looks over, Aventurine is smiling down at him, nursing a glass of crimson liquid. “You’re pretty when you sleep, too,” he praises.

Ratio sits up, rubbing his head. “How long have I…?” 

“Thirty minutes, give or take,” Aventurine answers, sipping his drink. “Relax! Don’t look so panicked. I didn’t do anything, if that’s what you’re worried about.” 

Ratio realizes then that he had almost instinctively reached up to touch his neck, sighing softly. “I apologize. I did not mean to insinuate anything of the sort.”

Aventurine shrugs dismissively. “I’m a predator by nature, and you’re the prey. That’s what you said, isn’t it?” His tone betrays not a hint of emotion, but that in and of itself tells Ratio that he is masking how he truly feels about it. However, there is no indication that Aventurine wishes to pursue the matter, thus Ratio leaves it at that, nodding curtly. He swings his legs over the edge of the bed, rubbing his head. He plants his feet on the ground, assured in his core strength.

He centers his balance, finding that it takes some more effort than he’d anticipated. Aventurine watches on with a smirk barely hidden behind his glass. “Need any help—” 

“No,” Ratio cuts in before Aventurine can as much as offer anything. “I am fairing fine.” 

“Well, at least you’re not tripping over your own feet,” Aventurine remarks. He nods his head at one of the cabinets, where Ratio spots his clothes folded neatly atop it. “Thought I’d make things easier on you. Thoughtful, aren’t I?” 

Yes, thinks Ratio, but with an ulterior motive. He cannot shake the feeling that Aventurine’s actions are driven by something deeper, and yet…

Aventurine had let him sleep in, not as much as laying a finger on him. No, he’d simply watched over him as he rested, and took the liberty of organizing Ratio’s clothes.

Ratio feels a twinge of guilt regarding his lingering suspicions, but unless he uncovers what is underneath that mask Aventurine dons at all times, he believes it to be warranted. One mustn’t blindly put their faith in someone merely because they’ve shown a degree of kindness. Ratio is certain that Aventurine, too, must harbor some suspicions about Ratio in turn.

But that does not mean their relationship cannot be amicable. 

Far from, if their acts prior are anything to go by.

“Thank you,” Ratio says simply as he goes to fetch his clothes, stumbling only one. He shoots a glare at Aventurine, effectively shutting down anything Aventurine might have wanted to say. “I… had a good time.” 

“So did I,” Aventurine replies, smiling that usual smile of his. Infuriating, but attractive. “You’re a delight, Veritas. Ah, but I guess I should go back to Ratio now, hmm?” 

“Do as you wish,” Ratio responds, pulling up his pants. He cares little for what Aventurine addresses him by—Veritas, Ratio, doctor, those would all be correct to refer to Ratio to. “I am leaving. To have fallen asleep has been a mistake—if a next time occurs, I ask you wake me up. I do not want to risk interrupting my circadian rhythm.” 

“But haven’t you already?” Aventurine points out, “A small little nap wouldn’t hurt that much, would it?” 

“...Perhaps I might have benefited from it this once,” Ratio admits begrudgingly—he does feel refreshed. He finishes dressing, and heads for the door. “You do not have to walk me to the front door. I will see you tomorrow, Aventurine. And… thank you for tonight.” 

“Thanking me twice? Wow, Ratio, we should do this more often! You’re so nice to me, all of a sudden! Why, I’m almost starting to think you might like me.” 

Ratio’s eye twitches. He pinches the bridge of his nose, opening the door. “Until tomorrow, gambler. Do not be late.” 

“For you? I’ll make sure to be early,” Aventurine croons. Ratio affixes him with a flat look, unimpressed by his attempt at flirtation. Aventurine already has Ratio in his bed—must he still continue on with this useless flattery? He does not ask, as he is done with conversing for the day.

He bids goodbye to Aventurine, gathers his things, and leaves.

Tomorrow, his life might very well be in Aventurine’s hands.

Ratio finds that, despite everything…

…He has to be able to trust Aventurine with that.

Chapter Text

Ratio wakes as the first rays of sunlight peek through the curtains, ever punctual with his alarm. He falls into his usual morning routine, but finds himself mentally preoccupied with his upcoming experiments, slowing him down by approximately three minutes and seven seconds.

Once he finishes breakfast, he picks up his phone, and turns it on to an expected barrage of messages from Aventurine, the latest being a simple— 

Aventurine: On my way!

Aventurine: I meant to say omw. Do these keyboards all come with a function to translate abbreviations? Very nifty!

Veritas Ratio: Do not text and drive.

There’s a blissful ten seconds of silence before his phone buzzes again.

Aventurine: Are you worried about me? You’re so sweet, doc. <3.

Aventurine: I learned that recently. It’s a heart.

Ratio deigns not to answer. He has plenty on his mind as is, and the budding headache that is Aventurine’s playful disposition certainly isn't helping.

Ten minutes or so later, the doorbell rings. Ratio, who had already packed his things and put on his coat and shoes, is started from his thoughts by the shrill noise. He rubs his forehead with a sigh, opening the door for Aventurine.

“You’re early,” he comments after a glance at his watch. “I commend your punctuality. We may leave immediately.”

Aventurine blocks the doorway. Ratio raises an inquisitive brow. Aventurine’s bottom lip curls, but the effect his pout may or may not have had is severely undercut by the sight of those fangs that could tear through Ratio’s flesh as if it were as fragile as paper. Aventurine catches his stare and presses his lips together. “I came over early so we could spend some time together… you’re so cold.” He lightly ghosts his pointer finger down Ratio’s blouse, fingering one of the buttons. 

Ratio shudders, trying to mask his bodily reaction with a deep sigh. He does not bat Aventurine’s hand away, however. Aventurine trails said hand up to one of Ratio’s shoulders, slipping under his coat and lightly kneading his skin through his clothes. “You… seem rather keen on touching me.”

“Haha. How could I not be, when you look like you were sculpted and made for a museum? Except, I get to touch the exhibit…” Aventurine trails off with a purr. Ratio pretends that tone of his does not affect him.

“You are ridiculous. I was born, as is any other.” He does not know whether that rings true for Aventurine as well, but he doesn’t ask either. 

“Come on, Ratio, you’re not oblivious to your own appeal, are you? Or are you just pretending, so I can flirt with you some more? In that case… oh, I haven’t even started yet!" 

Ratio affixes him with a blank stare. Or he tries to, pretending to be oblivious to the heat creeping into his cheeks. "I do not need your flattery."

"Flattery would mean I'm being insincere... do you really think so little of me?" Aventurine faux-gasps, but Ratio isn't amused. He takes a step forward, inserting himself into Aventurine's personal space. Aventurine smirks. "Do you--"

"Aventurine," Ratio begins, tone brooking no room for interruptions. Not that such would stop Aventurine. No, he's quiet for an entirely different reason. Ratio ganders a guess as to why: the proximity of their faces would have his breath wafting against Aventurine's lips, and just as he guessed, the vampire parts said lips and inhales with a shuddering breath. 

Ratio has to take a deep breath of his own at that display, to say nothing of when Aventurine's hand slides from his shoulder up to his neck, fingers tracing his jawline, and ultimately settles on his cheek. Aventurine's thumb prods Ratio's bottom lip.

"You're still wearing your gloves," Ratio comments, not too keen on having fabric in his mouth.

What would he prefer, then? Aventurine's fingers in his mouth?

Ratio's heartbeat picks up speed. 

Aventurine moves his thumb back to rest on Ratio's cheek with his other fingers and looks at Ratio with what one could only describe as bedroom eyes. "Of course that's what you're complaining about. I can hear your heart going crazy. Don't be shy. Take what you want. I went through all the trouble of properly rinsing my mouth and brushing my teeth for you, just so you know."

"If you are so well-versed in my desires, must you insist I initiate? Is it amusing to you?" Perhaps he's being a tad snappy to cover for his embarrassment, but the thought hardly crosses his mind at the moment. Aventurine appears to find it funny, however, chuckling with a crinkle of mirth to his eyes as he steps closer and slowly guides Ratio's head down. 

"Maybe a little," Aventurine admits, pressing their lips together in a slow, indulgent kiss before Ratio has time to respond.

True to his word, Aventurine did indeed rinse his mouth. While Ratio would've preferred he'd do it for his own sake, the little tidbits he's picked up of Aventurine's behavior hint at a general carelessness for his personal wellbeing, so it hardly surprises him that he did it for the sole reason of kissing Ratio.

The timing perhaps is a little off, but Ratio remembers something Aventurine said days prior. He recalls the hint of panic when Ratio had told him of his plans to inject Aventurine's blood into his own veins, and something dawns on him, then.

This, theoretically, though Ratio estimates the chances to be small, could be the last time they could engage in such a manner.

Is this why Aventurine insisted on showing up early? Why his disappointment when Ratio wanted to leave immediately rather than dally felt genuine?

Besides... With all these unknown factors involved, even Ratio isn't certain of his own continued existence.

Aventurine may have initiated, but it is Ratio who deepens the kiss, bringing a hand to Aventurine's face. Aventurine reacts bodily, a shudder running down his spine. He parts his lips and Ratio cautiously pushes his tongue inside Aventurine's mouth.

He wonders if he should do this. Yet, it could very well be the last time, could it not? So he, uncharacteristically bold, and so, so careful there's barely any touch, curls his tongue and presses against Aventurine's fangs, tracing the outline.

It isn't the action itself that surprises him; no, most of all, it is that the feeling of fear those very fangs usually instill in him... Isn't even present. Not enough to overtake his desires. This realization brings with it a sense of elation, and Ratio gets a little bolder, wrapping an arm around Aventurine's shoulders and pulls Aventurine's body flush against his own, gasping into his mouth.

More. He wants more.

Aventurine drags his hands down Ratio's back and Ratio spine arches, pushing his chest against Aventurine's with a moan Aventurine eagerly swallows up. Aventurine coaxes Ratio's legs apart with his knee, pushing his thigh against Ratio's groin. 

They shouldn't, Ratio thinks. They really shouldn't. He shouldn't. He has a schedule to adhere to, and one he has yet to stray from.

And yet, there's that insistent nagging that this could very well be the last time, and oh, how Ratio wants. Pitting the logical and emotional sides of his mind against each other, very rarely does the latter come out on top, but this time...

Ratio breaks the kiss with a quiet whine. "Inside," he gasps in a moment of impulsivity, "This is... not the place."

Aventurine nods. There's a light flush on his face, and Ratio wonders if he consumed more blood after he left the night prior. His penis, however, is barely hard, indicating that it has not yet been enough. 

"Suddenly game, doctor?" Aventurine purrs, walking Ratio back into his rented apartment. "Not that I'm complaining, before you say anything."

Ratio's face must look as red as he envisions it to be with how warm he feels. "If you intend on pestering me about it, my decision might very well change."

"Aww, come now! I'm just teasing you. You're so easy to tease," Then, Aventurine lowers his voice, smirking at Ratio that puts his fangs on display in a way that is more sultry than intimidating, for once having its intended effect on Ratio. "...Veritas."

Ratio breathes in through his nose, struggling to maintain his composure. Heat pools low in his gut, and it certainly doesn't help when Aventurine pushes him up against the nearest wall in a way that's rough without being painful, conveying just how eager he is without having to utter a single word.

...Not that he remains quiet, however. He wedges his thigh between Ratio's legs again, puts a hand on the back of Ratio's head and brings his face down to meet Aventurine's, their foreheads touching. Aventurine inhales each and every of Ratio's breaths, his eyes slightly glassy. Ratio is utterly entranced by the picture he paints, and for a moment, he forgets his arousal, as he wonders whether inhaling Ratio's breaths makes Aventurine feel alive.

What a ridiculous notion. But, given Aventurine's expression, the way his lips are parted and how he's almost gasping for them, it is not too far-fetched, Ratio thinks. And then he doesn't think at all, because Aventurine grinds his thigh against Ratio's clothed vagina and Ratio whines, having to swallow around a mouthful of saliva before he puts his hands on Aventurine's shoulders and redirects his attention back to Ratio's face. "Wait." 

Aventurine tilts his head slightly. His other hand snakes up Ratio's chest, his collarbone, quickly passing by his neck as though he doesn't want to linger there too long, before cupping Ratio's cheek. "Changed your mind?" he asks, a twinge of disappointment barely audible to the overarching concern in his voice. Ratio would not say his heart is in the right place, for he does not know whether Aventurine even has a heart at all, but the shift in his questioning is much appreciated. Ratio shakes his head.

"No. I simply do not wish to soil my clothes, so if you would step back a moment..." Ratio unbuckles his belt, pulling down his slacks and boxers when Aventurine takes the requested step back. Aventurine looks eager; too eager, so Ratio puts a hand up, gesturing to the other man's own pants, "You should not soil yours either, nor would it be hygienic, if you wish to use your thigh to bring me to climax."

Aventurine huffs out a laugh. "Right. You know, I wondered if this phrasing of yours was a one-time thing, because you'd never done it before... Mm, I don't mind it, though. It actually beats pillowtalk." He shuffles out of his own pants but keeps his boxers on. Ratio doesn't mind much. No, his thoughts are elsewhere.

Pinching the bridge of his nose, he sighs, "My phrasing, you say? I am merely putting it plainly. I see not why I must sugarcoat my words for the sake of intercourse. I find that there is nothing attractive about it."

"Sure, sure. Don't think about it too hard, okay? I don't need you to go into the details too much while you ride my thigh. Oh, or maybe you should, so I can listen as you slowly lose focus... aah, I want to hear you moan for me again, Veritas..." Aventurine pushes Ratio back up against the wall, gentler this time. Ratio spreads his legs, averting his gaze.

"You truly are utterly debauched. Are you certain you are not a succubus?" It's a quip; but a look of surprise flashes through Aventurine's eyes and he laughs.

"Ahaha, he has a sense of humor! Nice one, Ratio. I'm pretty sure I'm not, but for you... do you want me to be?" he teases with that same flirtatious smirk, and Ratio is certain that by now the tips of his ears must have gone red, too. He bounces off Ratio so naturally that it's almost endearing.

No, scratch that. Ratio realizes that he finds it endearing, period. He is not left to linger on these confusing new feelings for long as Aventurine's thigh returns to its previous position, and Ratio gasps at the coldness of his skin. He gradually eases up, daring to loosely wrap his arms around Aventurine's shoulders. Aventurine smiles at him, a look of something other than lust but close in nature briefly overtaking his expression. He moves both hands back to Ratio's head, one on his cheek, his thumb stroking the spot just under Ratio's eye, the other on the back of his head to pull him down again. 

Ratio rolls his hips experimentally.

The sensation sends a shudder down his spine. To him, whose only experience was what had occurred the night prior, the sensation is still novel. Aventurine gives him another first, and for a fleeting moment, Ratio hopes it won't be the last. His mouth falls open around a moan. "Ah--"

"Easy," Aventurine all but whispers, his voice gentle, "Take it at your own pace. Don't overwhelm yourself." 

A smile curls Ratio's lips. "You... are surprisingly considerate," he says, because Veritas Ratio does not mutter, regardless of how his voice might sound at the present moment. "However, we do not have all... ah, all morning..."

"Sure, but I bet you'll cum before long. You're so sensitive. I like that about you, too," Aventurine makes sure to emphasize on that last point, very lightly tugging at Ratio's bottom lip with his own lips, keeping his teeth out of it. 

"I... It is only natural," Ratio argues, rolling his hips again. He groans, and Aventurine inhales his noises with a barely audible moan of his own that if had it not been for their proximity, Ratio wouldn't even have heard it. "You are... my first, ah, experience in the field, so to speak..."

"Haha, I know. And I'm flattered to expand your horizons even further." 

When Ratio goes down on Aventurine's thigh again, Aventurine pushes his thigh up slightly for more friction, and Ratio's moan pitches high. It feels good. He already wants more, but he does not want to give Aventurine further ammunition to tease him about his impatience when it is Ratio who often chides Aventurine on that very same subject. That would make him a hypocrite, and he would not stoop to such a level. 

"Want me to do that again?" Aventurine asks, not to elicit a response he can utilize to fluster his inexperienced partner even more, but for the purpose of Ratio's enjoyment and consent. Ratio nods his head, but as he finds it rude to respond to a question without a proper, vocalized answer.

"Yes," he says curtly, closing his eyes for a moment. Aventurine's glow too intense. When he pauses for a moment, Ratio huffs, opening his eyes again. "Well? I gave you my answer."

...So much for his patience. 

“Just savoring the moment…” Aventurine responds, trailing off with a sultry purr that does more to Ratio than he cares to admit. Though the desire to do so is there, Ratio does not claim the last word with a remark of his own, content to let his words and thoughts make way for ones more focused on the physical—and mental, given his attraction to Aventurine—stimuli that has heat burning in his core.

Moans fall freely from his lips as he chases his high, a whimper dragged from his throat when the stimulation to especially his clit is just right, and oh, how he craves. His climax builds, body shaking as his muscles snap taut in anticipation. Aventurine tells him to come undone; using more vulgar terms, but it boils down to the same principle, and Ratio gasps his name, inadvertently surrendering to his urges to pull Aventurine closer.

Aventurine presses his lips to Ratio’s, but he does not move them; he waits, devouring Ratio’s noises while his climax hits him, his body set alight with the flames of pleasure before they slowly dim down, but oh, what a euphoria it is indeed.

Coming down from his high, he finds himself still in Aventurine's arms, faces mere inches apart, but lips no longer connected. Ratio heaves long, precise breaths as he collects himself, and watches through hooded eyelids when the tip of Aventurine’s tongue presses against his bottom lip, lashes fluttering while he sucks in Ratio’s breaths.

How peculiar, thinks Ratio, when he watches how Aventurine closes his mouth again as he pulls away, swallowing audibly and with a breathy little moan that sends a shiver down Ratio’s spine before he speaks up again. Is the air Ratio breathes that precious to him? There must be an underlying meaning, but he’s let his thoughts wander enough for the morning.

After he insists on cleaning them both up, they leave for the hospital.

Aventurine restlessly watches the minutes tick by on Ratio's wall-mounted clock as Ratio digitizes more of his findings, comparing the results of prior tests to newer ones and analyzing the key differences. Even if his life is to be forfeited this very day... that is no reason for him to sit back and wait for it to happen. 

Besides, though there is an element of uncertainty, Ratio has an inkling that the one truly fussing over what might come is not the doctor himself, but rather the gambler pacing the room, turning on his heel as he starts on his thirty-fourth lap. 

"Aventurine," Ratio calls, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I must insist you take your business outside of my office if all you are intended to do is to be a hindrance."

Aventurine stops in his tracks, whipping his head around to look at Ratio. He tosses the chip he'd been fiddling with into the air, catches it, and puts it back into his pocket. "Am I being distracting, doctor?"

"Yes," Ratio answers flatly. "And both of us ought to be sharp for what is to come."

"Right," Aventurine replies, sighing, and strolls up to Ratio's desk. "For what is to come... honestly, you're pretty ballsy, Ratio. So stoic, even when you're putting your own life on the line. Or do you just care so little about it that it doesn't matter to you either way? ...Haha, no, that doesn't sound like you at all."

"Nonsense," Ratio agrees, straightening his posture and rolling his shoulders with a satisfying pop as he'd been in the same position for far too long. "Even if things were to spiral beyond my control, I have reasons to believe I can trust you to rectify these. However..." He pauses, taking note of how Aventurine's pupils flex when Ratio speaks of trust. For a human to trust a vampire must be an odd thing indeed. Ratio himself hasn't even given the notion much thought beyond that he has no other options and that Aventurine appears to hold some concern for Ratio's wellbeing, as well as that the gambler appears to have something to gain from the results of this partnership of theirs being favorable. The latter is more of a hunch, but given Aventurine's strange reactions to Ratio's progress, he trusts his intuition on that. "However, if you continue to act in such a jittery, foolish manner, I will have to deduct some points off that." Aventurine looks at him weird. Ratio raises a brow, irritated that Aventurine doesn't appear to have been listening. "Aventurine--"

"That... actually, that's not my name," Aventurine replies, his tone void of his usual confidence. As Ratio's gaze travels to the primary offender to giving away Aventurine's emotions; namely, his left hand, Aventurine has already hidden that very same hand behind his back. He puts on an easy smile, but the cracks in his facade are glaringly obvious. "In the spirit of trust, and everything. Since you're deducting points, I should give you a reason to add some more, right? Not that I knew you were grading me on my trustworthiness, but..." He trails off, looking at Ratio for what looks like...

...Help?

"Of course you would see it as an exchange. Trust is built, gambler. It is not an asset in whatever game you might metaphorically link it to." Yet, he still motions for Aventurine to continue, equal amounts intrigued and concerned by Aventurine's almost desperate shift to tell Ratio this. "Yet, if you wish to impart this knowledge to me... then do go on. You have my attention."

"Kakavasha," Aventurine blurts after a moment of silence, "Kakavasha. That's my name. Well, it used to be. I just..." A strange flicker of emotion takes hold of his face. Bemused, Ratio watches on as Aventurine struggles to control it, his lips forming syllables but not a sound leaving him. He schools himself after a minute or two, but his left hand remains firmly clutched behind his back. "I'm building trust on a more... personal level," is his explanation, and it dawns on Ratio then, that Aventurine--Kakavasha, whatever his name might be, has perhaps never even had an individual to trust in his life.

But that is not a matter for Ratio to pursue. He hums his acknowledgment, and says, "Kakavasha. An... intriguing name." He does not ask his companion what brought it about, as he's far more occupied by Aventurine's reaction to his name being uttered by someone else. Ratio has a theory he wanted to ask about: is it custom among vampires to give up their names as they are turned? But Aventurine does not give him the room to do so, because upon hearing Ratio speak his name, the sheer vulnerability he emits is almost suffocating. Ratio clears his throat after the silence lasts a moment too long and Aventurine's eyes burn into his, seeking out Ratio to steer the conversation to safety. Ratio ponders, palming his chin, pretending that it has to do with the process on his screen rather than his ineptitude towards handling emotionally charged moments, and after a moment, he says, "I assume it must have a meaning of sorts?"

"Blessed one," Aventurine replies, his voice a fading memory. He sounds... Ratio can't quite place it. There's a hint of regret, of nostalgia, and something else entirely. Is it apathy? Or is it anger? Whatever it is, Ratio doesn't have the time to unearth it, as when he opens his mouth to say something undoubtedly bunglesome, his program pings as it finishes with the digitalization of Ratio's notes, and saves them both from further awkward conversation. 

Ratio pushes his chair back, nodding his head at Aventurine. "It is time. My system access is yours, if it comes down to it. I am certain you will figure out where the codes are." 

Aventurine's strange expression vanishes in favor of that familiar mask of his, yet it's so cracked that Ratio could simply peel away at it by as little as looking at him. "You give me too much credit, doctor."

"Nonsense. You have shown your mettle. Now, do follow me."

...

Time crawls by.

A question is asked. 

The same as barely a minute ago. Therefore, his answer remains the same, too.

"Fine," He replies to Aventurine's query about his well-being. Unchanged, is what he wants to add, but of such he no longer is certain. He watches as Aventurine jots down Ratio's reply on the clipboard Ratio had given him, surprisingly diligent, and serious. No more pleasant, fake smiles; a look of calculation has taken their place, with a twinge of concern to his eyes, which are usually so dead. 

Ratio blinks.

Or at least, he thinks he does. As when his eyes open again, it is not Aventurine he is looking at, but the ceiling.

Strange.

Did he close his eyes a second too long?

He blinks again. 

Aventurine asks him the same question. 

Ratio opens his mouth to reply that he's fine, but he frowns.

Aventurine's lips do not form the words correctly. No, rather, his words register in Ratio's mind, but the physical action of speaking takes a moment longer for Ratio to process.

"I... I feel..." Ratio's own voice sounds like a distant echo. 

He looks at his hands. 

He moves them.

He does not see them move. No; they are suddenly on his chest.

He tries to look at Aventurine again. "My perception of... movement, of time, appears impeded," he gets out with some degree of difficulty, and only then does he pick up on his increased heartrate. The monitor attached to him beeps, prompting Ratio to try and look behind him, but the motion is so fast, so dizzying, it nearly knocks the lights out of him. 

Breathe, he tells himself, breathe.

Yet, his brain takes the simple thought of breathing, and divulges into a tangent on how the intake of oxygen works, and Ratio almost loses his surroundings before he firmly grasps that train of thought and forcefully puts it to a halt. 

No, it is not his surroundings he is losing---it is himself.

He casts his gaze to Aventurine again. Aventurine cycles through a myriad of emotions under a minute. Or is it really a minute? 

Sweat trickles down Ratio's face. The thudding of his heartbeat spreads through his whole body, and the tips of his fingers and toes throb with the intensity of it. It is as if the organ itself has expanded, filling every available inch of him. He tries to describe it as best as he can, his breathing ragged and mind struggling to keep up, but for the sake of...

...

Blood pumps, but it is not his own he hears. 

He stares at Aventurine.

He swears that he can practically hear the blood Aventurine has consumed coursing through his veins.

But that should be impossible.

"...Ridiculous," he adds after uttering his observation with increasing difficulty. 

His body throbs.

The beeping of the monitors assault his senses. He cannot even lift a muscle, and feels as though he can perceive every molecule in the air.

And again, he is asked the same question, yet this time...

...Ratio does not answer.

Ratio bolts upright with a gasp, heaving for air. He clutches his chest, his heart hammering. 

"...Tio? Ratio?" A distant voice. Not his own. Ratio's body feels unbearably hot. "...Veritas?"

He snaps his head to the side. Aventurine's flushed face meets his. His cheeks are dyed a deep red, thus he must have...

Must have what? What happened? Ratio tries to mouth the words, but nothing comes out.

Cold fingers ghost against his fever-ridden face, lingering, leaving it up to Ratio whether he wants to move away or...

Ratio leans in. Aventurine's hand cups his cheek, the coldness of his skin a shock to Ratio's searing body yet providing him with the sliver of clarity he needs. He tries to think of how to breach the subject that slowly becomes clear to him. It's on the tip of his tongue, the question he needs to ask, and why he finds it so curious that Aventurine's cheeks are so red, and his eyes glazed over, but he's not all there yet.

Aventurine holds up three fingers with his other hand. He asks, "How many fingers am I holding up?"

Ratio blinks. What a nonsensical question. Did he not just say---

Ah. No, that's wrong. He did not say anything. Ratio licks his lips to moisten them, trying to work his throat into cooperating with him. 

He is parched. But water will have to wait. "Three," Ratio croaks. "What a ridiculous... ngh."

"Ratio?" Aventurine's voice is clearer now. His hand slowly travels around Ratio's face and he puts the other on Ratio's exposed shoulder. "What do you need?"

"Water," Ratio gasps. Aventurine nods, retracting one of his hands. Ratio mourns the loss of it with a whine he cannot stop. Aventurine hands him a bottle of water Ratio had prepared beforehand, unscrewing the cap for him and Ratio gulps it down like his life depends on it. After half the bottle is empty, he hands it back to Aventurine, breathing heavily. He becomes acutely aware that he is completely drenched in sweat, and there's a dull, throbbing sensation in his arm. 

Ah. That was what he meant to ask, wasn't it?

Whether or not Aventurine had bit him.

Looking at his arm, he sees two telltale bitemarks.

So he has.

An innate disgust fills Ratio.

He did it to save you.

He takes a deep breath. Yes, Aventurine did it to save him, but his instincts...

Aventurine follows his gaze. "Sorry. I should probably have covered it up. Don't worry, I didn't take more than absolutely necessary. I even filmed it for you, if you can't take my word for it."

Despite the flare of panic, the urge to demand Aventurine hand over the footage and confess to whatever he might have done, Ratio shakes his head.

For better or worse...

...He takes Aventurine's word for it.

Knowing that he is unable to do things alone, he asks, "Aid me in lying back down."

Despite his stature, Aventurine is strong. Ratio muses whether or not Aventurine could carry him if he so desired. The thought fills him with warmth, which he attributes to his body still feeling as though it could burst into flames at any second. 

With one arm to help support Ratio's back and the other still on his face, now moved to his forehead, Aventurine lays him down on the bed, and Ratio breathes a heavy sigh of relief when the strain on his muscles lessens. He closes his eyes for a moment, leaning into Aventurine's touch. It is a far more effective method than a washcloth or attempting to ice it, he thinks, not considered the implications behind favoring Aventurine's touch whatsoever. "I fear... I may have underestimated the strength of the dosage," he thinks aloud, resting his arms next to his body. "A different approach might be required..."

Aventurine huffs out a soft laugh. It doesn't slip past Ratio's notice that he is still blushing, for lack of a better word, the small amount of blood he'd taken from Ratio affecting him just as much as an entire bloodbag's worth. He's panting, softly, despite not having the need to breathe, and Ratio felt his heartbeat through their proximity, earlier. Now, with only Aventurine's hand on his forehead, he cannot quite make it out, nor does he try to.

Yet, the implications behind what a mere drop, or a small amount of what Ratio's blood could do to Aventurine...

Even in this state, this is not lost on Ratio. 

He doesn't have to think on it for long as Aventurine pursues his deductions, "Of course you're immediately talking work after a life or death experience. Easy, Ratio. You're still not in the clear. I mean, you're not dying, but from what little I remember, a human's body temperature and heartbeat aren't supposed to be this high. Lay off the medical talk for a moment, doctor. Sorry, no, I shouldn't advocate for it, should I? Veritas."

And oh, curse him, the way Aventurine says his name makes him feel even warmer.

How counterproductive. 

He pinches the bridge of his nose. "This remains a life-or-death situation, regardless of any... hiccups I might face along the way. So long as I am still capable, I must continue to---ah?!" Swinging his legs over the edge of the bed, Ratio is stopped by Aventurine who quite literally gets between them. Bemused, he stares up at his partner. "This is not the time for debauchery, you deviant! Get out of my way."

Aventurine rolls his eyes and sighs dramatically. "If you fall, I'm not picking you up."

"I will not fall. I feel stable."

Ratio almost falls over the second he stands up.

Aventurine caught him regardless. When Ratio looks at him with a brow raised, Aventurine shrugs his shoulders with an indecipherable smile. "I can't let you injure yourself any further. I'd make for a lousy partner if I did. Besides, we're still working on that whole 'trust' thing, and isn't falling one of those activities people do?"

Ratio snorts, admitting his defeat by letting Aventurine help him get back into bed. He feels dizzy, head spinning. "You appear quite hung up on this. Very well, if you wish to be helpful... do fetch me a bottle of water and something cold to press against my forehead." He then begins listing off things. "A thermometer to take my temperature, disinfectant for my wound... my notes, so that I may record what has happened---" and on he goes. Aventurine, much to his surprise, gets all, except for a cold compress. Just as Ratio is about to ask him why...

"Lift your head for me."

Perhaps it is due to the strain on his body and mind that he obliges wordlessly, not even thinking to question Aventurine's motives. 

Aventurine sits down on the bed, laying Ratio's head in his lap. He puts the back of a gloveless hand on Ratio's forehead, and yet, despite that, Ratio's cheeks are dyed a deep red, he thinks, as all the heat feels as though it's risen to his face. "W-what manner of nonsense is this...?"

"What, am I not allowed to get comfortable too? You're so selfish, Veritas," Aventurine teases, but quickly goes on to explain, "Cloths, compresses, don't those all become warm after you use them for a time? I don't. A pretty effective way of saving resources, don't you think?"

Ratio thinks on it. Aventurine does have a point, yet their proximity brings an entirely new predicament with it. That being, Ratio's flustered state. But that's not something he cannot manage, or is particularly life threatening. He tries to calm his racing heartbeat, but with Aventurine's heightened senses, he must have already heard it. 

Further flustered by this sudden revelation, Ratio turns his head. 

As if that would help. 

"Well? It's not like you to be so quiet," Aventurine hums, that characteristic smugness of his doing away with some of Ratio's embarrassment. Ratio draws a deep breath, glaring up at Aventurine, but any effect it might have had is sure to be undercut by the red on his cheeks. 

"Yes, you are correct, this is a logical alternative, but must you use your lap as a cushion for my head?" Ratio stumbles over his words in his haste to get his question out, clearing his throat after. It must be the state of his body. Yes, that is it. 

Although, not even he is that oblivious.

"Am I not comfortable?"

"That is not the point."

"Haha, I know. You're a furnace, Ratio. I would offer you my whole body, but I'm sure you'd decline because of your principles. Like this, I get to feel your warmth, and you get to cool off. Kind of. You're so red~" 

He could have done without that last part, Ratio muses, feeling more heat rise to his face. "Your reasoning is sound, even if I do not fully believe it. Hand me the thermometer--I shall take my temperature."

Slightly above average. He has a fever, but it is nothing critical. He sighs his relief, putting the device away to be disinfected later. After ensuring that he is out of mortal danger and simply needs to rest, he allows himself to relax a little. 

Aventurine's presence doesn't loom over him like it once did. 

No, with his head in Aventurine's lap, Aventurine's hand on his head, his fingers lightly treading through Ratio's hair...

When had he started doing that?

Ratio takes a shuddering breath. He doesn't dislike it, thus he doesn't tell Aventurine to stop, but again, it makes his heart beat faster. There is no longer a reason to deny his attraction to Aventurine, but reactions like this... do they not go beyond mere bodily attraction? No, he should not think on that right now. The lull of sleep slowly draws him in, and he intends to rest up and go home. 

"Aventurine," he begins, his voice weaker than he expected. He clears his throat. "Once I am able to walk properly, I will return home to rest. I fear that in my current condition I might not be able to drive responsibly, thus I must ask you to drive for me."

"No problem," Aventurine responds, gliding his fingers down to cup Ratio's cheek. He locks eyes with Ratio, and Ratio's heart skips a beat at the light reflected in them. It's a far cry from their usual dullness. He idly wonders what brought this on, but there is only one explanation to be had.

He carefully leans into Aventurine's touch. Aventurine's lips twitch up ever so faintly. 

Ratio closes his eyes. "I do hate to break hospital protocol, yet... I cannot risk exposing our work together when we are so close to reaching a breakthrough. Do be on the lookout to dissuade any from entering this room."

"Sure thing. You can count on me, Veritas."

"You have proven as much today. I will be counting on you again..." Ratio trails off, reopening his eyes to meet Aventurine's undeniably tender gaze. He swallows thickly, and decides to test the waters himself.

"...Kakavasha."

Chapter Text

In the proceeding days, Ratio and Aventurine work tirelessly to tweak and perfect what will be the foundation for the cure. Ratio is optimistic; applying Aventurine’s blood to that he took from patients rapidly breaks down and rebuilds the cells, leaving barely a trace of the disease left.

He’s so close, just one more push…

Ratio sighs, leaning back in his chair. Well, not his chair—after finding Ratio nodding off in his office again, Aventurine had forced Ratio to compromise; after a certain hour, Ratio would go to Aventurine’s home, and continue his work there, where Aventurine can help out with not only his work, but reminding Ratio of his meals, occasionally providing him with some coffee, and relaxation, as well. Aventurine’s study is a tad ostentatious for Ratio’s tastes, but he cannot deny that it isn’t far more preferable than what he has at the hospital.

What is less preferable, however, is Aventurine barging into the office again, putting his wine glass of blood down on the desk as he comes up behind Ratio and wraps a neck cushion around Ratio’s neck. Ratio starts at the sudden contact, and the scent of blood infiltrates his olfactory senses, pulling him away from his work.

Aventurine quickly picks up the glass and sits on the edge of the desk, earning him a tired glare from Ratio. He smiles, taking another sip. “You’re very welcome. I had to do a quick store run for this.”

“There was no need. I am feeling fine,” Ratio replies, unable to tear his eyes off the wineglass.

Perhaps because he knows whose blood is in it.

His eyes travel up to Aventurine’s face. His cheeks are a deep red, his eyes slightly unfocused, and by the way his lips move, Ratio knows he’s holding back a moan when he takes another sip. It travels slowly down his throat as he savors it, and Ratio’s body, curse him, shudders not with fear, but anticipation, because it is his blood Aventurine savors so delicately, as though he has never had something so delicious before.

Ratio feels heat rise to his face. 

“Not needed? Veritas, dear, you’ve been… ah, what’s the term? Shrimping? Come now, I thought you were better than that! Aren’t you supposed to be aware of your bad habits?” 

Ratio sighs, “I am but a man, and as any man, I have my vices. Get off my—the desk.”

Aventurine laughs. “Not even a thanks? You’re so heartless… ah,” this time when he takes a sip, he does moan, wetting his lips with his tongue. He smiles apologetically, but there’s a twinkle of amusement—and something else—in his eyes. He gracefully slides off the desk, looking over at Ratio’s screen. “You should take a break, Veritas. You’ve been stuck on this for what, an hour now?”

And again, Ratio sighs. “Your reasoning is sound. Yet… I find myself frustrated. I am but one step away from—” A finger presses against his lips, silencing him. 

“We agreed I’ll handle the IPC part,” Aventurine reminds him, “So rest a little.”

Yes, the IPC. To ensure the medicine would go to those who need it and at affordable prices, no less… Ratio will have to go through the IPC. Aventurine surprised him by telling him he has some connections there, yet also cast the company in a suspicious light by telling Ratio he shouldn’t divulge exactly what it is for, with a twinge of anxiety in his voice. Ratio suspects there is more to this relationship Aventurine has with the IPC, but he does not press. 

He just nods, pushing his chair back and taking off his glasses. “Very well then.” He meets Aventurine’s flushed face with a tired gaze, and he unleashes his curiosity at last, “Is my blood truly so different that it elicits… this kind of reaction from you?”

Aventurine looks surprised by the sudden question, but he laughs soon after, as if he’d been expecting it. “Yes,” he replies easily, “yes, it is. Heavens, Veritas, I think, even with this amount… mmm, I’ll definitely be able to perform in the bedroom… the smell alone is enough to get me going.” 

Heat rises to Ratio’s face. He takes Aventurine’s extended hand, knowing well the implications behind his actions, yet still feels the need to verbalize them. He takes a deep breath in hopes of calming his racing heart even if he knows that Aventurine likely already picked up on it. “I consent,” he says, “To having intercourse with you. I believe I at least ought to make myself clear.”

Aventurine looks him up and down. Despite his layers, Ratio feels awfully naked under Aventurine’s bright, almost sparkling eyes. A full minute passes before his eyes meet Ratio’s again. By then, Ratio is quite certain the hue of his cheeks matches that of his eyes.

He refuses to look away. It would be impolite as Aventurine is about to speak. 

“Are you sure?” Aventurine asks, pushing some of Ratio’s hair out of his face. “You’re working up a sweat, doc. There’s tons of different ways to have sex than just—”

“Penile insertion into the vagina, yes,” Ratio finishes for him, quick to cut off any possibly crude remarks Aventurine could make about it. Aventurine laughs it off, looking almost enamored.

It’s the light, Ratio idly thinks, before realizing what an utterly nonsensical excuse that is. It must be the blood. He heaves a sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose. “However… I do wish to try, as long as you are in possession of the necessary materials.”

“What, like a condom? I’m infertile on the account of being dead, but sure. I think I still have some.”

Ratio makes a face. Aventurine catches on and snorts. “I’ll watch my wording. Can’t have you getting dry on me, now.”

“Much appreciated,” Ratio responds, completely ignoring the latter part of Aventurine's sentence. “Lead the way, then.”

Aventurine saunters into the bedroom after thoroughly taking care of his oral hygiene and ensuring nothing smells of blood, with only a silken robe draped over his shoulders and his blouse unbuttoned, showing off his pale chest.

He undoes the last button but doesn’t entirely remove the clothing. Ratio doesn’t make him. With the fading yet still prominent outlines of scars on his torso, their very shapes give Ratio an inkling as to how Aventurine’s back must look.

He wouldn’t judge or ask any prying questions, but he respects Aventurine’s privacy and boundaries well enough.

Aventurine mistakes the look at his chest for one of curiosity about his physique, as he’s trailing his bare hand down his skin, stopping just short of his groin.

Ah.

He’s completely bare on the bottom.

Ratio’s eyes fly back up to Aventurine’s face. Aventurine smirks, wiggling his eyebrows. “In for a show, doctor?”

Heat pools low in Ratio’s abdomen. He presses his thighs together in a feeble attempt to contain himself. 

Aventurine has no such reservations. He takes his erection in hand, dragging his thumb along a prominent vein, groaning loudly and commandeering all of Ratio’s attention. “Fuck,” Aventurine moans, “I forgot how good this felt. A little too cold for my tastes, but…” He looks at Ratio, “You’ll lend me a hand, won’t you?”

“I… I suppose such is a part of… yes,” Ratio replies, wetting his lips as his throat starts to feel dry. “I must advise you to do away with any expectations you may have, however, as this will be my first time stimulating a penis.”

Aventurine doesn’t give the reaction Ratio expected. No laughter, no teasing—just a shrug of his shoulders and a lopsided smile. “So? You already did more than anyone ever did for me, Veritas. You actually got it up.” 

Aventurine must be referring to his penis, Ratio thinks. 

Curious. For all his confidence, his attitude, if what he says is true, then… his low intake of blood throughout however long he’s lived this undead life is rather worrisome.

At the very least, even if his priorities are skewed, he appears to be properly nourishing himself now, Ratio supposes. 

Aventurine thumbs that same vein. “Ah… this is all you, you know. You’re making me hard.” 

It’s your blood, goes unsaid, but Ratio is fully aware of the implications. He thinks Aventurine must’ve omitted that out of worry Ratio might find the phrasing uncouth, and while that would usually be true…

His cunt throbs with desire.

A weak noise breaks free from his throat. Aventurine’s gaze snaps to his, magnetized. He emanates a predator ready to pounce, observing every minute movement of Ratio’s to determine the right time.

Ratio’s breath catches in his throat.

Indeed. Aventurine is such a predator. That gleam in his eyes is dangerous, to say nothing of those fangs designed to tear through flesh within just an instant. 

And yet, he doesn’t find himself scared.

No, the reaction this revelation elicits from him, instead…

…Is arousal.

Ratio fails to hide his own surprise and plays the part of the prey a little too well by whimpering in a manner that has his own eyes widen in shock and forces his gaze away, embarrassed. 

Aventurine smirks. The bed dips as he puts his knee on the mattress. Ratio shifts to make space for Aventurine, and though he’s a man of principles and manners, for once, he’s at a loss of whether to look at Aventurine’s eyes, or his penis.

Ratio draws a deep breath. Aventurine puts a cold hand on his cheek, starting him from his thoughts. “Just wrap your hand around it,” Aventurine says. “Move it up and down. It’s not rocket science.”

“I—I know that!” Ratio sputters, swallowing audibly as he reaches for Aventurine’s erection and carefully brushes his fingers against the organ, humming his surprise when he finds it unusually warm compared to the rest of the body.

It must be the blood. His blood. 

Ratio sucks in a gasp. His cunt clenches around nothing, feebly producing more slick as though he isn’t already soaked from the anticipation alone. 

He carefully wraps his fingers around Aventurine's erect penis, one by one. It pulses in his grasp and Aventurine releases a shuddering breath. Raising an eyebrow, Ratio meets his gaze. "Does the mere act of physical contact bring such satisfaction?" 

Aventurine grins toothily. Ratio's eyes do not stray to his fangs. "Cut me some slack here, Veritas! Maybe I just haven't been touched in a very long time, or maybe it's because it's you." 

Ratio scoffs in response to Aventurine's sultry drawl, but his features arrange themselves into a contemplative state. Despite his inexperience in all matters related to coitus, there are things Ratio does know---such as Aventurine.

Over the course of their partnership, his keen eye has extended to the gambler's many facades and sweet little lies when he wishes to cover up the truth. The way his left hand trembles when he's nervous, the tendency he has to hide it behind his back, the subtle inflection of his voice when he speaks with genuine emotion, when he speaks for himself...

Aventurine may be shrouded in mystery, but Ratio has long seen behind the mask he puts up, carefully unraveling the vampire's true feelings when Aventurine feels comfortable enough to let the conversation wander. 

Therefore... "Physical attraction plays a significant part in stimulating one's arousal," he hums, pressing a knuckle to his chin. "Forgive me. I was merely curious."

"Alright, I'll forgive you once you start stroking my cock. How's that for a deal?" Aventurine replies, this unusual bout of impatience from him oddly endearing to Ratio. It must be as he said; he hasn't been touched in some time. Not in this manner, at least. 

He huffs his amusement. "Do tell me what stimulates you as I go." He tightens his grasp a little, experimentally running his thumb down the same vein Aventurine had reacted so heatedly to earlier. Aventurine's lashes flutter, and Ratio thinks that this is the first time he's ever seen him blink. 

"I'm afraid I can't really give you any pointers, with how little action I've gotten. I know, with a body such as mine... a shame, isn't it?" Aventurine replies with an airy laugh. Ratio isn't particularly fond of the way he objectifies himself with such a strained tone, but he holds his tongue. Aventurine quickly adds, "But I'm sure you're a fast learner."

"Then, on this matter, we are both students." Ratio drags his hand down to the base of Aventurine's penis, lets it linger there for a moment, and slides it back up. The soft exhale of air he pulls from Aventurine is exhilarating. Out of his peripheral vision he sees one of Aventurine's hands grip the sheets, and a sense of pride wells up inside Ratio. 

He repeats the motion several times over. Aventurine is pliant under his touch, looking at Ratio with eyes like smoldering embers, full of desire so raw Ratio has to shift and press his thighs together lest he starts dripping down his thighs.

It's clear that what he's giving Aventurine is good but...

It could be better. As a man who settles for no less than perfection, or as close as he can get to it, Ratio taps into his extensive knowledge of anatomy to ponder what might bring some extra... spice, as Aventurine might say.

Looking at Aventurine's face, he tries something. 

He pushes the pad of his thumb against Aventurine's frenulum.

Aventurine's moan catches in his throat. 

Ratio smirks victoriously. So he liked that, then. He rubs it in slow, gentle circles, experimenting with the pressure until Aventurine gives him a reaction that determines his preference. His hips buck, if slightly, and his penis throbs, to say nothing of the whine which leaves Aventurine's trembling lips. 

Enraptured by Aventurine's reactions, however, Ratio suddenly recalls something quite vital he'd completely overlooked. A beginner's mistake. He stops, and Aventurine frowns. "Something the matter? You were doing so good..."

Ratio pretends that the way Aventurine enunciates the word good doesn't make even more heat rise to his cheeks. "Would it not be more satisfactory if we were to add lubrication?"

"Hm? Oh, right. Maybe." Aventurine shrugs. "Your hands feel good already. So warm, and so soft... how are your hands this soft? Not that I'm complaining, but with all the work that you do..."

"A custom-made hand cream," Ratio answers. "I crafted it myself."

"You're so talented," Aventurine hums, his praise genuine, but Ratio shies away from accepting it all the same. "Now, why don't you focus those talents on where I would really like them again? I can say please, if you really want me to. For you, I would."

Ratio averts his gaze as Aventurine winks at him. "Y--You--be quiet," he stutters lamely, but resumes his previous actions, paying extra attention to Aventurine's frenulum and any prominent veins when he drags his hand back up.

"No can do," Aventurine gasps, tilting his head slightly back, unintentionally giving Ratio a better view of that particular tattoo on his neck. He does not ask why it is there, nor does he know what it says, but with how Aventurine, who prances around like a damned peacock at times, uses jewelry to redirect any attention from said tattoo discreetly... Ratio's suspicions regarding Aventurine having lived an unpleasant past are all but confirmed. Aventurine's voice, thick with lust, drags him from his thoughts. "Not when you're making me feel so good. Oh heavens, Veritas..."

And there it is again. That almost familiar quickening of his heartbeat when Aventurine utters his name with such profound emotion… granted, it is out of pleasure, this time, but the impact is no less. Ratio surprises himself by thinking that he wants to hear more of that. He’s never been a particularly greedy man, even if he accepts that just as all humans do, he, too, has certain cravings, certain needs.

Ones that Aventurine is fulfilling.

“Ah—Veritas, I’m close,” Aventurine gets out, his grip on the sheets tightening. Half-lidded eyes never stray from Ratio’s face, still burning with that same intensity. “You… you can be a little rougher. Please.”

Ratio nearly responds bodily to that desperate plea, his heart threatening to leap out of his throat. He nods in acknowledgment, not quite trusting his voice at the moment. He picks up his pace and adds just the right amount of pressure, and within a few strokes, Aventurine’s body snaps taut, and he comes undone.

Oh, and is he ever a sight to behold.

Aventurine’s eyes flutter shut and glistening lips part to give way to an almost reverent whisper of Ratio’s name. His hips buck up and his head lolls back, the muscles in his thighs twitching and spasming. 

Golden hair falls into Aventurine’s face, clinging to his forehead. Ratio reaches down to brush some of them out of his face, tucking a lock behind Aventurine’s ear. His hand lingers as Aventurine leans into it and places his own hand atop, a smile curling his lips as his eyes slowly reopen. “Wow,” he whispers, “I told you. Fast learner.”

Ratio smiles in turn. “Indeed. I have always prided myself on that.”

“As you should. You’re outstanding, Veritas,” Aventurine purrs praise in sultry tones, reminding Ratio of his own predicament and of what is still to come. He suddenly feels bashful, and it must show on his face, as that smug smirk of Aventurine’s Ratio can practically sculpt him with makes its appearance again as he props himself up on his elbow. “And someone so outstanding deserves nothing less than the best.”

Ratio sighs despite his building arousal. “This is not a transaction.”

Aventurine appears genuinely surprised for a moment before his features smooth over into a smile again with a slightly rueful tint. Ratio, as always, doesn’t pry. “Of course not. Lay down on your back for me. Mm, you must be soaked already…” Aventurine licks his lips, watching Ratio intently as Ratio gets into position. A little embarrassed to showcase just how much merely getting Aventurine off had affected him, Ratio is slow to spread his thighs apart, turning his head to the side.

The pads of Aventurine’s fingers brush against his inner thigh. Ratio gasps at the coldness in such stark contrast with his skin that feels as though it is boiling, and for once, Aventurine’s lack of body heat does nothing to alleviate his predicament.

“Good heavens,” Aventurine murmurs, rubbing Ratio’s skin in circles. Ratio’s gaze snaps to him, and in his embarrassed state, he gets defensive when he sees Aventurine’s dumbfounded expression.

“What? What could possibly be so interesting that you opt to stare instead of taking action? Is it not your goal to penetrate me? Then stop wasting time!”

Aventurine snorts, squeezing Ratio’s thigh. “Just admiring the goods. You’re drenched, Veritas. Look, even your thighs are wet…”

“Idiot. I cannot see my own thighs from here,” Ratio hisses, desperately clinging on to the last vestiges of his pride.

“Sorry, I forgot you can’t see past your massive bosom,” Aventurine hums in response, prompting Ratio to sputter syllables at random until he nearly bursts into a coughing fit, and Aventurine laughs, leaning down to peck his lips. “You make it so hard to resist teasing you. So snappy and demanding, it’s cute.”

Ratio would argue that he is certainly not cute, but he lacks the opportunity to do so as the next noise that leaves him is a loud, shameful moan because Aventurine pulls down his boxers and wastes no time pushing his fingers between Ratio’s labia. Slender fingers circle his clitoris, which must be engorged by now. He lightly tugs on the little length with his index finger and thumb, pulling another moan from Ratio's parted lips. 

And then he whines, because Aventurine moves away, leaving him throbbing and without stimulation for a total of one second---but in Ratio's current state, that is one second too many. He dares release his breath only when he feels Aventurine's finger tease his hole, vaguely picking up on something Aventurine says but cannot quite make it out over the thrumming in his ears. 

Aventurine pushes his finger inside.

Ratio's back arches off the bed. 

With little resistance, Aventurine quickly works in a second. Ratio feels his eyes on his face, scanning for any signs of discomfort. Warmth blooms in his chest at Aventurine's consideration. His lips twitch up into the approximation of a smile, but his mouth falls open again when Aventurine sets a pace, focusing on working Ratio open. He rubs at the base of Ratio's clitoris with his thumb and Ratio spasms almost violently as a wholly unexpected climax seizes control over his body. Aventurine gentles his thrusts, but does not stop. Ratio grips the sheets tightly, a loud, "Ah!" filling the room. 

Sensing that it's becoming too much, Aventurine draws his thumb back. "I can't wait to hear what you'll sound like with my cock inside you... You're already so reactive." 

Ratio feels that anxiety sitting at the back of his mind flaring up a little at the mention of penetration. He swallows thickly, averting his gaze. "T-then... focus on your pre... ah, your preparations..."

Aventurine leans close and bends down to press a kiss to Ratio's jaw. "I'll be thorough. We can't have your first time to be uncomfortable now, can we? I want it to be memorable, so that you'll have plenty of material to sate yourself with when you get horny and I'm too busy to be on speed dial."

Ratio scoffs, putting his arm over his mouth. "Quit uttering... nonsense--ah!" 

Aventurine cocks his head to the side, almost casual in the manner he curls his fingers against Ratio's g-spot. "Hm? Nonsense? I thought you weren't the type to jerk off to porn, though. I'm just helping your imagination along for lonely days."

Ratio shoots him a flat look. And fails miserably, because Aventurine bursts into a fit of giggles, craning his neck to kiss Ratio on the lips. "Okay, I got it. No talk about jerking off while I'm fingering you."

Ratio huffs, the corners of his mouth quirking down. "You... I simply do not... ah... see why I would waste my time indulging my--my carnal urges myself, nor do I have had the urge to."

"So, what you're saying is... that I'm much better than your right hand?" Aventurine quips. 

Ratio rolls his eyes. "Obviously, given I have used it sparingly. For such--ah! activities."

"Well then, I'm honored." And he sounds genuine, too. Ratio sighs, focusing his energy on letting his body relax while Aventurine's fingers slowly stretch him open. Looking at Aventurine's penis, a thought crosses his mind. He's rather girthy for his stature. Two fingers would not properly emulate that, and Ratio wishes for it to go as smoothly as Aventurine does, though his extensive research has told him that regardless of how prepared one might be, the first time is bound to be uncomfortable in the beginning regardless. Still, there are ways to minimize said discomfort, even if it uses up more of their time. 

"Add a third," he instructs, "I believe the stretch would aid with penetration."

Aventurine nods. "Tell me if it's uncomfortable, alright?"

Ratio snorts, throwing Aventurine a smirk. "When have I ever withheld my judgment?"

Aventurine chuckles. "Fair point." He pushes his index and ring fingers together with the middle digit resting on top, slowly working all three past Ratio's rim. Ratio draws a deep breath, shifting in an effort to get more comfortable. After a moment, he nods.

"Proceed."

The discomfort of the initial stretch quickly vanishes at Aventurine's behest. His diligence and patience is much appreciated, but as most of Ratio's efforts go into relaxing his body and ensuring he's breathing properly, he'll have to thank him for that later. Ratio hopes to wordlessly convey it through reaching for Aventurine's other arm and giving it a light squeeze. Aventurine looks at him, puzzled at first, but smiles the next second.

His unguarded smiles, the ones that aren't refined over what he assumes to have been years of practice, Ratio has come to notice, see the tips of Aventurine's fangs poking out a little and give a twinge of gentle warmth to his face. The former first disturbed Ratio a little; a serving reminder of the predator Aventurine is, adding an almost deceptive quality to those smiles, in Ratio's mind, but now, he thinks of them as...

Endearing.

He sees Aventurine, a vampire, as endearing.

The revelation catches him off-guard. He swallows down a strange noise welling up in the back of his throat and clenches around Aventurine's fingers, gasping. Aventurine opens his mouth, presumably to ask if Ratio is okay, but Ratio speaks first. "I'm fine. Keep going."

Aventurine scans Ratio's expression for a moment before he concludes that Ratio is indeed fine and resumes his pace.

After a moment longer, when Ratio feels as though he's drifting on the edge, yet lacking the stimulation to push him over, he clumsily paws at Aventurine's wrist and says, "I... I believe this is... enough..."

"Aww. I didn't get to make you come first, though," Aventurine laments with a pout, slowly pulling out his fingers. The wet squelch as they slip free of Ratio's cunt has him crinkling his nose in a way Aventurine apparently finds funny, because he snickers softly, pecking Ratio's lips before pulling away. 

"Would you not rather... save such things for what you yourself referred to as the main act?" Ratio quizzes, breathing a deep sigh when he watches Aventurine bring his fingers coated in Ratio's slick up to his face and unceremoniously shove them into his mouth. "That is disgusting. There are far better ways to clean."

Aventurine releases his digits with a wet pop, grinning. "If you're this delicious, I'd rather be disgusting," he purrs, and much to Ratio's dismay, wipes his fingers clean on the sheets.

"You have a bathroom. Several, in fact."

"Memorized the layout of my house, have you? Sure, I do, but maybe I just don't want to get up, with you here all pretty and soaking my sheets. But, if it stops you from glaring, I'll scrub them thoroughly later, alright?" 

Ratio feels his cheeks heat up even more as Aventurine points out that he is, indeed, dripping his natural lubricants from his cunt onto the bed. He would have to ensure the sheets are changed later, he thinks, but that thought is quickly chased out of his head as he watches Aventurine grab the condom and the bottle of lubricant, his heartbeat picking up speed. 

"Relax," Aventurine says. Of course, with those senses of his, nothing escapes his notice. "I know what I'm doing."

"Must I remind you that this is to be my first time? Nerves are only natural." Ratio decides not to point out that he isn't the only one suffering from said nerves---it's quite obvious in the way the fingers on Aventurine's left hand twitch as he rolls the condom over his penis. 

Aventurine catches his gaze. "If you stare at my cock like that any longer, it might just retreat back into my body out of fear," he jokes, popping the cap on the bottle of lube. 

Ratio snorts. "Highly unlikely, and a scientific impossibility."

"There's always a first for everything. Maybe you'll make a groundbreaking discovery." Aventurine shifts closer, diligently applying a generous amount of lubricant to his penis and Ratio's cunt despite the latter already being soaked. Ratio draws a shaky inhale. 

"You'll find I have no interest in that particular field." Ratio feels his walls constrict around nothing, reminding him of just how painfully empty he is. "Now, will you get on with it?"

Aventurine laughs, "Alright, alright, hold your horses. I thought you were nervous?"

Ratio turns his head, averting his eyes. "I... I merely... carrying on with this topic of conversation wastes our collective time. I joined you with the desire for intercourse."

Aventurine puts his non-lubricated hand on Ratio's cheek, dragging his gaze back to meet Aventurine's. "You're so cute when you get embarrassed," he purrs, but before Ratio can rebuke him, Aventurine carries on, "Maybe I'm a little nervous, too. I told you. I haven't done this in a while."

"If it eases your nerves, I have no expectations. To put it simply, you are my standard."

Aventurine blinks. He opens and closes his mouth at Ratio's statement, clearly caught off guard. Just as Ratio is about to ask him what the matter is, Aventurine nods with a smile. "Right. Spread your legs a little more for me."

Ratio does as asked. Aventurine settles between them, appreciatively giving Ratio's inner thigh a squeeze. Ratio sucks in a gasp. 

"Ready?" Aventurine asks. Ratio feels the tip of Aventurine's penis press against his hole, catching on the rim. He shudders in anticipation. 

"I was ready from the moment you started uttering nonsense about your penis retracting." Ratio masks his nerves with his scathing tongue. It's a habit he's fallen into ever since meeting Aventurine, but now isn't the time for further realizations about his personal shortcomings. He nods, swallowing thickly. "Proceed."

Aventurine pushes in. 

Ratio reflexively tenses. He takes a few deep breaths. In, out. In, and out again. Though the discomfort doesn't fade, there's ample room for Aventurine to move. Meeting Aventurine's gaze, he nods again.

Aventurine slowly rocks his hips forward. He stops whenever Ratio tenses too much, aiding him by rubbing his clitoris. It works, and slowly but inexorably, Aventurine bottoms out.

When their hips meet, one thought crosses Ratio's mind.

Big. Aventurine is big. It feels as though he fills every available inch of Ratio's tight channel. His walls ripple and contract around Aventurine's cock, dragging a noise from them both. 

"Tell me when I can start moving. Or if you need me to pull out." Aventurine's voice drags him back to the present. Ratio shifts a little, nodding. The discomfort has mostly faded by then, but the sensation remains... odd. Not negatively so, he admits.

"You may move," he manages to get out fairly evenly. His hands clutch the sheets, but his body remains relaxed. "Slowly."

"I wasn't planning on anything else. I want to savor you properly, just the way that gorgeous, tight pussy of yours deserves," Aventurine purrs. Had it been anyone else, or had his penis not been inside of Ratio already, such vulgar talk would have been a major turn-off. 

He has to ask, though, "Do such... vulgarities usually work?"

Aventurine huffs a soft laugh, shrugging one shoulder. "Just speaking from the heart. I haven't had any practice with it."

Ah. Then, is Ratio his first in terms of such anatomy, or in this role? Given how much of Ratio's blood it took Aventurine to get an erection in the first place, both theories are viable.

He doesn't linger on them long.

Aventurine carefully starts rocking his hips, chasing any thoughts from Ratio's mind. Ratio gasps, lashes fluttering. "Ah..."

"Heavens," Aventurine gasps, keeping his pace slow. "You're so--fuck--so tight..."

"Ob... Obviously," Ratio replies, but doesn't get any further than that, as the push and pull of Aventurine's cock inside of him takes over most of his thought processes. It's a foreign feeling, but not at all unpleasant. And that, he thinks idly, is because it was Aventurine who had so diligently ensured he was properly prepared, minimizing his discomfort. Warmth floods Ratio's chest, and he feels his lips twitch, smiling of their own accord. He withholds only the urge to reach up and cup Aventurine's face. That, he thinks, might be a little too intimate.

"Feels good," Aventurine almost whines, and Ratio decides that he likes that sound. Genuine and in pleasure. "Veritas, you feel so good..."

"A--" No. Aventurine isn't fitting. Ever since he'd learned that Aventurine is but a title he was forced to take on as a way to signify leaving his mortal life behind, Ratio has steered clear of addressing him as such unless absolutely necessary, as he knows Aventurine's actual name. He looks up, breathing in through his nose and out through his mouth as he tests the waters. 

"Kakavasha..."

Aventurine stills, his pupils blown wide. Had Ratio said the wrong thing, then? He shifts, subconsciously clenching around Aventurine's cock at the loss of stimulation, but that isn't as important. No, what is important is ensuring he did not overstep. So he opens his mouth to ask, to apologize, only to find when he looks at Aventurine again, he's smiling widely; warmly, looking at Ratio with such a spark of life to his eyes that Ratio could swear he's seen actual living humans look far more like walking corpses than Aventurine, who is one in theory. 

But only in theory.

Despite his earlier train of thought, Ratio does reach up to cup Aventurine's face. Aventurine leans into the touch. "It sounds nice," his voice is barely above a whisper. "When you say it."

Ratio allows a smile to curl his lips. "Kakavasha," he repeats, "Shall I continue addressing you as such while we are being intimate?"

Aventurine nods. "Yes. Yeah. Good heavens, it makes me want to jump you. Don't worry, I'll keep things slow. I know it's your first time, and besides, I want to savor you."

Likewise, Ratio thinks, however... "I... do not find myself opposed to an increase in speed," he mutters, cheeks red. "Only slightly."

Aventurine turns his head, brushing his lips against Ratio's palm in the approximation of a kiss. "Tell me if I'm going too fast." Putting his hands on either side of Ratio's head, he shifts a little, accidentally hitting an angle that has Ratio's body snap taut and stars fill the edges of his vision. 

"There--" he gasps, wrapping his arms around Aventurine's shoulders. "Oh..."

Aventurine presses his lips together. Ratio had told him off once for biting his lips too often and causing injuries. Aventurine argued that they healed, so it isn't that big of a deal, but Ratio wouldn't budge. He doesn't wish to see harm befall harm befall Aventurine, be it by his own hand or another's. 

It seems he's taken the words to heart. Ratio's eyes soften. He wishes he could voice his happiness without overwhelming them both. 

Aventurine moves his hips again, his position just right. Ratio throws his head back with a loud moan, tightening his grasp around Aventurine somewhat. "Ah... Kakavasha..."

A hiss of pleasure slips past Aventurine's tightly closed lips. He picks up his pace---only slightly, as Ratio had said---just as liberal with his noises as Ratio. 

At this rate... "I... ah, I--I'm--"

"I know," Aventurine replies, leaning down to meet Ratio's lips in a sloppy kiss. Ratio eagerly reciprocates, faintly tasting himself on Aventurine's lips. He knows what he said earlier, yet he doesn't find it as unpleasant as he initially thought. So long as he'll have access to Aventurine's bathrooms after, and he knows he will. Aventurine pulls back, locks of blond hair curtaining his face. "Let go. I'm--ah, ahaha, I don't think I have more in me, either. Heavens, Veritas, you feel so good..."

Ratio feels his muscles clench in anticipation of his release. He clumsily grabs the back of Aventurine's head, dragging him into another kiss. He rolls his hips into Aventurine's thrusts as he chases after his high, growing increasingly more desperate. 

He jerks away from the kiss, running out of breath, his eyes nearly rolling back. He moans--or cries--Aventurine's name, feels Aventurine's lips on his neck, and that anticipation, that built within him snaps, exploding into a euphoric feeling that spreads all throughout his body, setting his nerves alight with pleasure. Lost in his lust-filled haze, he's not quite aware of Aventurine's second orgasm. When Aventurine pulls out, Ratio's body falls to the bed and he pants, heavily, closing his eyes for a moment. "Ah..."

Aventurine rolls off to the side, fumbling with the condom before managing to pull it off. "Haa... I don't think I've ever felt that... good."

Ratio opens an eye, turning his head to look at the other. He finds Aventurine smiling--not smirking--at him, looking a little dazed. Ratio doesn't need a mirror to estimate how he must look. He suddenly feels bashful, but refuses to avert his gaze. "As do I."

They lay together silently, basking in their afterglow. That is, until Ratio becomes a little too aware of how sticky he feels, and his comfort quickly turns to discomfort.

Except, the stickiness extends to...

...His neck? He frowns, placing a hand against it.

Aventurine's eyes go wide. "Ratio--" he begins, sounding panicked. He shoots up, putting some distance between them. "I'm sorry, I--"

Ratio raises a hand. "Calm yourself," he urges kindly, "While it is true I explicitly forbade you from bringing your mouth anywhere near my arteries... you did not use your fangs to drain me of my blood--you merely aimed to enhance my pleasure, did you not?" 

Aventurine nods, "I wasn't thinking," he says, "Ha... haha. That's one hell of a lame excuse."

"Nonsense." Ratio moves closer, gently taking one of Aventurine's hands in his own. "If your first instinct was to kiss me rather than to bite me, especially while you were not thinking clearly..." He smiles, gently stroking Aventurine's trembling hand with his thumb. "I trust you, Kakavasha. While this once warranted an apology for the suddenness, I accept, and going forward, I..." He swallows, feelings his cheeks heat up a little. "I would not be opposed to more of the same."

Aventurine looks up, his smile bright. It falters for a moment, strangely, but he shakes himself out of it before Ratio can ask. "Thanks," he says, a little sheepish. "Going forward, huh? So, we're not a one time thing?"

Ratio quirks a brow. "Has this not been the third time we have engaged in an act of sexual nature together?"

"Yeah, but I thought--" Aventurine trails off, shaking his head. "It doesn't matter what I thought. Alright, go clean up, I know you don't like being sticky."

Ratio offers him another smile and squeezes his hand. Aventurine reciprocates. He has a vague guess as to what Aventurine might have been thinking, but he keeps that too to himself. "Alright. I will resume my work in the morrow." He slips out of bed, stretching a little. He feels sore, but it isn't all bad. 

"Sure. Stay over? It's late, and that way I can make sure you're actually sleeping."

Ratio snorts. "I value my circadian rhythm, but I concede. I shall stay the night."

Even if he were to complete his work tomorrow... Ratio selfishly hopes that it won't signal the end of their partnership. 

Chapter Text

It is done.

After countless days and sleepless nights of grueling work and meticulous fine-tuning, the cure has finally been completed. The first patient to receive it recovers within a miraculously short period, and Ratio is relieved and overjoyed in one. 

With Aventurine's help, the medicine is slowly distributed across those afflicted by this strange disease. Where he pulled those strings, Ratio has no idea, nor does he intend to ask, but Aventurine's recent behavior casts a heavy shadow over Ratio's relief. Those feelings of joy are hardly palpable when anxiety creeps into his mind with every absent smile of Aventurine's, every look that he thinks Ratio does not see with eyes full of something akin to sorrow , as though he is elsewhere entirely. 

One night, when he thinks Ratio to be asleep, he strokes his face tenderly, whispering a quiet apology to the doctor.

Ratio wants to ask why. What for. But he respects Aventurine, and if Aventurine wishes to talk about it, then, surely, Ratio will hear of it. But that doesn't mean it takes away the anxiety. 

No, if anything, it only multiplies. 

The so-called miracle doctor is dragged away for interviews here and there, taking him further from Aventurine. He insists on taking the gambler with him wherever he can, but Aventurine appears reluctant to appear in the limelight despite Ratio's initial thoughts of him practically belonging there. He laughs it off, says that Ratio did all the heavy lifting, and even though Aventurine frequently accompanies him, Ratio feels distant.

Aventurine's eyes speak of regret. Not regarding the cure---that much Ratio can tell. No, there is something deeper there. 

Ratio has seen that look once before. 

Aventurine looks as though he's about to say his final goodbyes.

And that cold, icy realization is why Ratio hasn't had the guts to ask him—to truly ask him what the matter with him is, where he would have done so immediately in any other situation and has before in the past. 

Him. Afraid . Alone in his home office, Ratio sighs, putting his glasses away and rubs the bridge of his nose between thumb and index finger. Picking up his phone, the screen lights up with a swarm of notifications. Emails, mostly, and several messages from his assistant likely asking about the contents of said emails and phone calls she must have received throughout the day. As the moonlight already shines through the still open windows, Ratio does not reply. He puts it down, and turns on his private phone.

The screen is blank. He unlocks it regardless. It takes him straight to his chatlogs, with Aventurine being his most recent—and most frequent, for that matter—contact. 

Ratio chews on his bottom lip. His mind burns with questions that he needs answers to, yet fears them all the same.

Fear. Him. Fear of what, exactly? His thumb hovers over the chat box. He knows exactly what, but it's entirely alien to him. He fears losing Aventurine. Aventurine, his partner and colleague, his... bedfellow . He never bothered to ask what exactly they were to one another and hasn't felt the need to, and Aventurine didn't seem to, either.

Ratio can never tell what he's thinking. Lingering glances, private smiles that are far too endearing for his liking, the flicker of a light in his eyes when he thinks Ratio isn't looking... lips parted around groans and whispers of Ratio's first name, praises of his body and mind, fingers...

Ratio feels warm. He abruptly rises from his chair to further open the window, dimming the lights to attract as little bugs as possible. The ghost of Aventurine's touch lingers on his body, and when he sits back down, he, Veritas Ratio, has to press his thighs together in a feeble attempt to combat the heat pooling between his legs.

Another sigh. Certainly, they've... copulated , recently, but Aventurine's increasing desperation, his grasp on Ratio that as if he were to let go, Ratio would vanish altogether, all of it tends to drag Ratio out of the moment, mind swarmed with worry about his companion.

He firmly presses the call button. Aventurine picks up in a matter of seconds.

"Aventurine," Ratio begins, tone brooking no room for interruptions, "We need to talk."

Even if his worst fears are to be realized, he needs answers.

Aventurine arrives at a little over two at night. The doorbell to Ratio's apartment rings, starting Ratio from his thoughts. His nerves manifest as a feeling of dread in his stomach as he goes to open the door. Aventurine stands there, looking around curiously, faking a smile, yet he, in turn, appears just as—if not more—nervous as Ratio.

"Hi," he says. "Can I come in?"

"Obviously," Ratio replies, stepping aside. He closes the door behind Aventurine, frowning at how small he looks. Height-wise there's a significant difference between them, but everything, from his posture to his behavior, doesn't sit right with Ratio. 

Aventurine takes off his shoes, and Ratio invites him into the living room. Aventurine takes a seat on Ratio's couch, his smile when he looks around turning more sincere; gentle. "You have a nice place," he says. "Cozy."

Ratio's apartment isn't small or cheap by any means, but Aventurine's ridiculously large penthouse has it beat in both size and costs, he surmises. Though Ratio endeavors to keep his place clean, there are a few books strewn about here and there, and as embarrassing as it is, with his recent worries regarding Aventurine, he's been a little more careless.

Unacceptable, really. 

Ratio sits down on the armchair across the couch. "Thank you," he replies somewhat awkwardly, ever unused to praise, be it about his person or his home. 

Aventurine shifts, looking at Ratio. He's forcing himself, Ratio can tell. "So..."

"'So' indeed." Ratio crosses his arms, fingers firmly pressed against his bicep as he tries to conceal his nerves. He takes a deep breath, and looks at Aventurine. His throat feels dry. "You've been out of sorts recently. Ever since your negotiations with the IPC, whatever they might have been, you have acted... strange. Have you gotten yourself into some sort of trouble?"

Aventurine takes a moment before responding. He looks at his lap, expression unreadable. Ratio finds that he doesn't like that. "...It would be useless to keep it from you, wouldn't it? You're annoyingly perceptive."

Ratio hums. "Indeed. I pride myself on it."

Aventurine smiles wryly. "Well, I wish you wouldn't." His tone is off. Ratio's gaze drifts to his hands. Aventurine's left hand is clutched tightly in his right, as if to prevent it from trembling, but the action in and of itself tells him enough. "Sorry. I—I just—"

"You just what?"

Aventurine's shoulders sag. Ratio's heart aches. " Aventurine.”

His gaze snaps up. He looks like a cornered animal. Ratio's frown deepens. "Ratio, I..." He swallows around nothing. "I, uh... well, I might have to leave. For a little bit."

Ratio's heart drops. He clenches his jaw. "Where to?"

Aventurine shakes his head. "It's okay," he tries to soothe, but he doesn't sound convinced of his own words. "It's okay."

Ratio doesn't point out he sounds like a broken record. Left hand aside, his entire body is shaking. Subtle, but Ratio knows him well enough to pick up on it. "Aventurine," he almost pleads, voice soft. He asks again; "Have you gotten yourself into trouble? If so, we can figure this out together---"

"No." Aventurine's answer is firm, sudden, yet resolute, cutting Ratio off. "No, Ratio. You're not getting involved." He must realize his tone is serious, because he tries to smooth it over with a smile, and adds a light, "You have events to attend. Maybe even tours to go on, haha. The people need you, Ratio. The people want you! Isn't that a great thing? You did a great thing."

" We,” Ratio amends quickly, “We did a great thing."

But I need you. He doesn't say it. It lays on the tip of his tongue. He swallows it back down. He and Aventurine...

"Right," Aventurine answers with a strange laugh. "We did. Weird, right? A vampire, helping humanity! I'm surprised myself. It's likely your impeccable charisma and charm, though." 

No. 

Ratio doesn't like this at all. Aventurine's flirtatious tone falls short. The tension in the air thickens, and Ratio closes his eyes for a moment. "...Stop," he asks; pleads, because Aventurine is trying to avoid the crux of the issue. 

He never denied getting into trouble.

That tells Ratio enough.

"Aventurine, we can—"

Aventurine draws a shaky inhale. He doesn't need to. "No, Ratio." He looks as pained as he sounds. "It might just be for a little while, besides. Just..." He shakes his head. His smile has a sad edge. "Don't come looking for me, alright? Not that you have a reason to, but I know you. At least, I've gotten to know you enough to know that you'll play detective if someone doesn't tell you the full truth."

"A... little while? Aventurine, that—"

"It might be years," Aventurine responds, trying to appear casual. His following laugh is forced. "I'm a vampire, after all. Years mean nothing to us."

"Nonsense. You're hardly a day over forty," Ratio counters. Aventurine winces slightly, quickly recovering.

"Haha, ouch. I thought I looked younger than that..."

He's deflecting, again. Steering the conversation away because it makes him uncomfortable. Because he wants to protect Ratio.

Ratio knows he'll have to pierce right through. He braces himself, and opens his mouth.

"Kakavasha."  

Aventurine's smile fades. He rises from the couch. Just as Ratio thinks he's about to flee, Aventurine rounds the coffee table, standing right above Ratio. 

He could kill him.

He wouldn't kill him.

Ratio trusts him. He trusts Aventurine with his life.

So when Aventurine leans in, Ratio knows exactly where this is going.

Lips press together in an act of sheer desperation. Trembling, cold hands cup his cheeks and pull him as close as possible, a sob, a sniffle, lost to Ratio's lips. Aventurine kisses him like it's their last, and when he pulls away, the look on his face...

Ratio's bottom lip trembles. "You—"

"Meeting you has been the best thing that's happened to me in my life," Aventurine says, stroking Ratio's cheeks. "My death. I don't think I've ever been happier than when I spend time with you, Veritas."

"Then stay," Ratio pleads.

Aventurine shakes his head. "I did the one thing someone like me shouldn't do. I made the biggest mistake a vampire could possibly make."

He waits for Ratio to ask him what that is. Ratio doesn't. Pleading eyes are fixed on Aventurine's face. 

Aventurine closes his own.

"I fell in love with someone wonderful. Someone who has so much ahead of him. I charmed him to my side, and now, I'm facing the consequences."

Ratio chokes up. "Kakavasha—"

Aventurine's thumb tenderly brushes his bottom lip. His eyes fill with unshed tears. "I love you, Veritas Ratio. I want to be selfish. Trust me, if I could, I would. But it's because I love you that I can't bear to drag you down with me." 

Ratio's breath comes out in shaky puffs. He struggles to breathe properly. His vision blurs.

"I'm sorry. I really, truly am. If we meet again, then... I'll happily face your wrath. Bear your hatred."

He pulls away. Ratio chases after him, but Aventurine is quicker. Ratio stares at Aventurine's back.

"You... you fool ," Ratio gets out, nearly choking on his own words. "Don't— Kakavasha —"

"Goodbye, Ratio. If someone like me is allowed to make one wish... it's that I get to see you again."

Aventurine is gone. 

And with him, he's taken Ratio's heart, shattered into a million pieces. 

Chapter Text

Hours become days. Days become weeks, and weeks gradually become months.

Ratio feels as though he’s in a daze. Time passes him by, and certainly, he’s plenty busy—more interviews, lectures, visits, further offers for documentaries, and the like—but hardly any of it feels as though it matters.

When he’s alone, his eyes keep drifting to his private phone. On the rare occasion it lights up with a notification, hope seizes him, only for it to quickly tear through what remains of his heart when it turns out to be someone other than Aventurine.

His head hurts, but it matters little compared to the ache in his heart. He recounts their last encounter again and again, thinking of what he could have done differently to prevent Aventurine from leaving.

Yet, all roads lead to the same conclusion: he could not have prevented it. But these lingering regrets he has left… oh, what a fool he is.

Love. Aventurine confessed his love to him. And Ratio hadn’t the chance to reciprocate, because all he was focused on in the moment was getting Aventurine to stay, and even then, he did not realize that was what he felt.

He loves Aventurine.

And it dawned on him days after Aventurine left and took a piece of Ratio’s heart with him.

Like all things, this will pass, but he cannot help but worry. Worry for what might have become of Aventurine, of the trouble he didn’t deny getting himself into. Perhaps Aventurine thinks Ratio is bound to get over him, but Ratio has his doubts. Aventurine is his first love. His first in many ways. 

Is, because he doesn’t want to think of them in the past tense.

He sighs. The cold midnight air does little to clear his head. He’s been going on more walks recently as staying cooped up at home leaves him alone with his thoughts, causing a severe dip in productivity. Yet, as he deviates from his usual route and turns to a quiet alley, he finds that tonight, he has a particularly hard time untangling the mess in his mind.

He should have opted for a bath instead, he thinks idly. He’s turning into a fool, and the one to blame is nowhere to be found.

His thoughts hit a roadblock in the form of a person, slouched against the wall. Ratio's mind sounds the alarm. Covered in shade, he cannot make out any signs of life, so he cautiously approaches. He's had to deal with public emergencies before, pushing through crowds needlessly pulling out their phones to do anything but be helpful. I'm a doctor, he would say, I can help, if you all would just move aside.

Now, he holds his tongue. The alleyway feels constricting. He slowly gets closer, lowering himself to his knees. No response. He reaches to check for a pulse, and then—

Frenzied but familiar eyes meet his.

Ratio's mind screams at him to run.

His heart stays, and with it, does his body.

He opens his mouth. "A—"

Before he can utter that name he's been aching to see pop up in his notifications all these months, he's on his back. Aventurine's fangs bared, he snaps Ratio's head to the side with but a flick of his hand, going for his neck.

Ratio closes his eyes.

To struggle in the face of such overwhelming physical strength would be meaningless. 

Regret fills his heart nonetheless as he awaits the inevitable.

...

......

It does not come. Ratio opens his eyes again. 

"Ratio..." Aventurine rasps, a flicker of familiarity in his eyes. He suddenly darts back to his earlier spot, stumbling over his own feet. "Ratio—run—I—I can't—"

He should run. Aventurine is a starved predator, and Ratio is a meal presented to him on a silver platter.

He really should run. 

But he stays.

For once, his emotions lead his actions. Utterly foolish, but he'll have time to scold himself for it later. Now, his priority lies elsewhere.

Quite literally, as Aventurine all but curls into a ball, sharp nails digging into his skin. As his eyes adjust to the dark and Ratio recovers from the initial attack, he sees the anguish written plainly on Aventurine's face.

"Please," Aventurine whispers, "I don't want to hurt you. Not you. Go!”

Ratio takes a deep breath.

Love truly makes fools out of people, he thinks, lifting his sleeve. He reaches for his laurel hairpin, using that to slice a clean cut into his skin, away from any arteries. 

Aventurine's eyes widen. "No, you— Ratio, don't."

Ratio gets closer. Aventurine's nails dig deeper. They should've already drawn blood, but seeing as his skin remains clean, cuts dry, Aventurine must be severely drained of it. 

"I am not leaving you here," Ratio says, his voice less resolute and more desperate than he'd hoped, extending his arm to Aventurine. "Drink. You haven't a drop of blood in you, do you?"

Aventurine can't resist his instincts, no matter how hard he tries. Sunken, haunted eyes meet Ratio's as his body forces him forward, mouth open and clamping down on Ratio's arm within a matter of seconds. 

Ratio grits his teeth. Despite his apparent hunger, Aventurine doesn't sink his fangs into Ratio's skin. He drinks from the cut, gulping Ratio's blood down with urgency, as though he's on a timer that's about to run out. Ratio counts down the seconds, heart firmly lodged in his throat as his body screams the same thing over and over at him— he's going to die at this rate.

Aventurine saps his strength with every sip. Yet, Ratio does not stop him.

He should stop him.

Ratio huffs out a breath.

"Love truly makes a fool out of people..." he echoes his earlier sentiment, words carried on the wind.

When Ratio is all but on the verge of passing out due to the severity of his blood loss, Aventurine stops. He yanks himself away from Ratio's arm, scurrying back to the same corner Ratio had found him in. He grips his face, blood dribbling down his chin and pooling on the ground.

Despite his wobbly legs and loss of balance, Ratio manages to drag himself over to where Aventurine is agonizing over what just happened, extending a hand to him. "Come now," he says softly, "Do not spill blood on the ground. It might spark an entirely unwanted investigation."

Aventurine huffs a laugh through gritted teeth. Hands drop from his face, and the eyes he regards Ratio with are almost tearful. 

Almost. Aventurine's lip trembles but he pokes his tongue out, diligently lapping up the blood on his face. "...Better?" He asks, voice barely above a whisper.

Ratio nods. "Better. Now, do take my hand, or I might have to retract it. I fear my strength has all but left me after that little stunt I pulled." 

Aventurine reaches out, but his hand freezes halfway. With a heavy sigh, Ratio seizes his wrist, giving it a tug. He doesn't actually possess the strength to pull Aventurine upright right now, but Aventurine does so all on his own. Ratio's lips curl to a soft, tender smile.

"I..." Aventurine begins, dropping his hands to his sides when Ratio relinquishes his hold. His left hand trembles tellingly. How Ratio aches to reach out and grab it. "Ratio, I... you..."

Ratio reaches out. When Aventurine doesn't pull away, Ratio puts a hand on his shoulder. "Let us shelve this talk for later. Right now, I'm afraid I must ask for your assistance in guiding me back home."

Aventurine still doesn't look at him directly, but a small smile tugs at his lips. He nods. "You're a lousy liar," he says, guiding Ratio's hand over his shoulders. The position is a little awkward given their stark difference in height, but they manage somehow, with Ratio leaning on Aventurine as they hobble in the direction of Ratio's house.

"It was only a half-truth," Ratio replies, "I merely omitted some things."

Aventurine hums absent-mindedly. "Shelving those for later, too?"

Ratio smiles. He feels fatigue settling in, but refuses to surrender to it. "Indeed I am. Word might travel on the wind if we speak too plainly out in the open. Who knows what kind of fools one might find wandering around at this hour."

"You and me," Aventurine replies.

Ratio chuckles. "...Yes, I suppose so."

They spend the rest of the walk to Ratio's home in relative silence. Ratio manages to unlock the door and allows Aventurine to help him take off his coat. When he makes for the couch, Aventurine disappears further into Ratio's house and returns with the first-aid kit, following Ratio's instructions as he patches up the wound on his arm. Hunger flickers across his gaze, but he doesn't act on it. 

The pieces of Ratio's heart slowly mend.

"...I'm sorry," Aventurine finally says after five minutes of complete and utter silence, with neither of them knowing where to start, and Ratio not wishing to overwhelm Aventurine after what looked to be an arduous few months. "I'm sorry, Ratio."

"You'll have to specify for what," Ratio replies with a sigh, "Regardless... I forgive you." 

Aventurine opens his mouth, then promptly closes it again. "I see," he replies awkwardly. His gaze suddenly flits to Ratio's, nerves reflected, "Even for drinking your blood?"

Ratio nods. "It was I who made the call, was it not? Now there is nothing to forgive, as you haven't wronged me. I chose to do so of my own volition."

Aventurine nods slowly. Ratio understands he still feels bad. He moves his other hand to cup Aventurine's face, gentle, directing his eyes back to Ratio's. "It is okay, Aventurine. This, I promise you. Please, trust my words."

"I do," Aventurine replies, pursing his lips. "It's my own thoughts I don't trust. They're... loud.”

Ratio hums his understanding. 

Aventurine finishes patching him up. "It's a little shoddy, but will this do?"

Ratio looks down at his arm. "You did a fine enough job. Now, could you fetch me some juice and supplements from the kitchen? I do hate to ask you for so much, but my focus is... off."

Aventurine nods, getting up. "Leave it to me."

With his juice retrieved and both of them settled in the same couch, Aventurine inhales as though he wants to say something. Ratio raises an eyebrow, looking over. "What is it? Do speak your mind."

"I'm sure you have a lot of questions," Aventurine begins, frowning. 

"I do," Ratio confirms, "But do not feel pressured to answer them all at once. Share what you wish."

"Thanks," Aventurine's voice drops to a vulnerable whisper. Ratio regards him with gentle eyes. Shifting slightly, Aventurine looks at him again, inquisitive. "Ratio, if you'll allow me to be selfish for a moment... indulge my curiosity?"

"That depends entirely on this curiosity. I do still desire some answers as to why you did not seek me out and chose to starve on the streets, perhaps waiting for your next victim, but very well. Go ahead."

Aventurine winces slightly. "Never one for mincing your words... I'm surprised you haven't gotten on me about the whole abandonment thing yet. If it was me, I'd be pretty pissed."

Ratio looks at his glass for a moment. He thinks it rude not to look his partner in the eye while holding a conversation, yet cannot force himself to do so when everything feels so utterly fragile. "It pained you as much as it did me. You did not want to leave me. Not of your own volition. Isn't that right?" Despite his trust in Aventurine, he still seeks confirmation.

Aventurine swallows dryly. "I didn't," he confirms, "I really didn't. And I shouldn't have come back---"

Ratio puts his glass away, holding up his hand. “I made you come back. Do not blame this on yourself." You're shouldering enough as is.  

"...Right."

Another beat of silence. Aventurine finds it hard to breach this topic, Ratio realizes, so he circles back to something else, grabbing one of the meaty snacks, "Now, what was this curiosity of yours you wished for me to indulge?"

Aventurine looks up. "Right. That." 

"Try not to stare at the light too much, lest you wish to be compared to an actual mosquito," Ratio teases. Aventurine rewards his joke with a laugh. Ratio feels a surge of confidence in his sense of humor. 

"What you said... that it makes a fool out of you, do you..."

Ah. Of course, he would want to know about that, and of course, he had heard it.

Ratio takes a deep breath, heat creeping into his face. 

He nods slowly. Oh so very slowly, it's hardly perceptible. "I love you," he says, feeling a fool for how uttering three little words fluster him so. 

But they're not just mere words, he supposes. 

Aventurine twiddles his thumbs. Ratio watches it from the corner of his eye, thinking it endearing. "Me too," Aventurine says, "You. I love you. There wasn't a day I didn't think about you. About running away, escaping my punishment, and coming back to you. But I couldn't risk endangering you. I would make for a pretty lousy and selfish lover if I did that."

Escape. Punishment. Ratio frowns at these words uttered so casually, as if Aventurine is used to it. 

What did they do to him? No, that isn't the right question to ask. "Aventurine... what did you sacrifice for the distribution of the cure?"

Aventurine's posture goes rigid. Panic flashes through his eyes. "Before I say anything, Ratio, please call me by my name?" An almost desperate request.

One Ratio is more than willing to grant.

"Of course. Kakavasha."

Aventurine smiles wearily. He reaches for Ratio, but hesitates before their hands can touch. Again, Ratio takes Aventurine’s hand in his own, closing his fingers around cold skin.

He squeezes. Aventurine squeezes back.

“Alright,” Aventurine begins, “I should probably fess up then, shouldn’t I?” 

His tone is off. He’s clearly struggling to find a place to start.

Ratio throws him a lifeline. “Your… entanglement with the IPC. What exactly does it entail?”

“Oh, that?” Aventurine hums contemplatively, and speaks. “So, the IPC, for all the power they hold, is an organization made up of vampires. Crazy, I know. The lower level employees are all human, though. Not that they’d know what goes on in the upper ranks. And, since I am functionally dead to them… sharing what I know with you wouldn’t hurt.”

Ratio tries to act like the revelation that the IPC is a majorly non-human organization isn’t making him question all that he knows as Aventurine sounds as though he has something even more damning to share. 

He’ll hold his questions until the end. He does so hate to be interrupted by them mid-lecture, and he wouldn’t want to throw Aventurine off now that he’s finally decided to be honest.

Ratio slots his fingers between Aventurine’s. He's never been one for physical affection, yet, with Aventurine, he aches to make up for lost time. To hold him as though would he let go, Aventurine would...

...

He doesn't finish that train of thought.

Aventurine continues. He shifts slightly. "You could say that I'm in their employ. Even though I'm supposedly pretty high up..." A humorless chuckle escapes him. He shakes his head. "Turns out when you deviate from their orders and insert just a teeny tiny bit of rebellion... they don't take very kindly to it. Even my luck runs out sometimes."

Ratio frowns. "Their orders?"

"Mmhm. Do you think it was a coincidence that you came to me, doc? As romantic as that would have been... ha. Every little thing had been orchestrated by them. You see, they really didn't want you poking around in their—" Aventurine suddenly freezes up. Ratio's frown deepens. 

"...Kakavasha?"

Aventurine's grip on his hand tightens. Panic seizes him, Ratio can tell clear as day. 

Ratio tries to parse what exactly Aventurine said to cause such a reaction. Had it been admitting to his and Ratio's 'cooperation' initially being a sham? Ratio scoffs. 

Please.

"Do not think me a fool. Though your motives escaped me, nor did I truly care to know, your appearance as I was at my wit's end was always far too convenient to be pure coincidence." Ratio palms his chin. Yes, that might be true, but... "You changed, however. I would be an idiot to think it was me who changed you, but you... you developed an actual interest in our project. Whatever your motives, you were helpful until the end. Your contributions more than make up for your dishonesty. Besides," another pause. Ratio turns to face Aventurine fully. He cracks a slight smile. "Love... mustn't have been part of your schemes. It certainly wasn't part of my calculations."

Aventurine shakes his head. "That's not it, Ratio," he whispers.

Ratio raises a brow. "Speak up. You act as if someone is listening." 

Aventurine's gaze darts around, as if that thought hadn't occurred to him at all. Unease settles low in Ratio's gut. "They might as well be," Aventurine murmurs, running a shaky hand through disheveled blonde locks. "Ratio, I—I can't drag you deeper into this. Please. Please, let me protect you." 

Ah.

So, then...

"You believe I am in danger. Or that you are endangering me by simply being here. Is that it?" Ratio guesses. Correctly so, if the way Aventurine hangs his head is any indicator. After Ratio counts a full minute of silence, Aventurine nods.

"I shouldn't have come here," he murmurs, "I put you in danger again, Ratio. I... I really am a lousy..." 

Ratio takes Aventurine hand between both of his own and moves to sit in the floor so that Aventurine has no choice but to look at him. Ratio's body still feels weak and sluggish, but his desire to comfort and help Aventurine outweighs all else. "Kakavasha," he urges, "Look at me."

Aventurine takes a moment to comply. His pupils flex at the sight of what Ratio hopes is a tender and gentle expression. 

"Whatever you are blaming yourself for,, once more, I forgive you. Regardless of whatever doom you believe to have caused me, I am happy that you are with me. Truly. So, please..."

Aventurine reaches down to cup Ratio's face, gently brushing his fingers against Ratio's skin. He chances a tentative smile. "Me too," he whispers in a voice so small that it sounds strange coming from him. "But Ratio, you... you don't understand. The people around me, they... things don't go well for them. I should've learned, Ratio. I should've kept you safe. But all I can do when I'm around you is just..." He trails off and shakes his head. His voice breaks. "...I want to stay with you. I want to be with you. And that's the most selfish thing I could ever do."

Aventurine isn't crying; he likely lacks the moisture to, but Ratio still longs to wipe away his tears. To tell him that it's mutual, but there's so much Ratio doesn't know yet.

Frustratingly enough, his world spins slightly, and he has to take a deep breath. Aventurine catches on, and helps Ratio to sit back down on the couch, shifting so that Ratio can comfortably lean against him. For his smaller stature, Aventurine packs a lot of strength. "You're exhausted," Aventurine murmurs, "And pushing yourself. You should rest, Ratio."

"No," Ratio responds defiantly, a sliver of desperation shining through. "If... I wake up, and you are gone again... I would rather not risk it."

Aventurine stares ahead. There's nothing particularly interesting to look at. There isn't much on Ratio's walls save some paintings. "But you'll be safer that way."

Ratio sighs, aggravated. Aventurine tenses slightly. "With all due respect, given how much you have been around me, would it not reason to say that with or without you, I am equally unsafe? Though I lack the knowledge of what exactly I should be threatened by, I can estimate a guess, and I far prefer my chances with you than alone."

Yes. If the IPC is after Aventurine and has had Ratio in their sights ever since the very beginning, Ratio would hardly stand a chance on his own. 

And finally, Aventurine seems to at least consider his words.

He laughs a humorless laugh. "You don't give up, do you?"

"You? Never. I had only hoped the sentiment would be mutual.” He feels Aventurine flinch somewhat, a flicker of guilt passing through him. Ratio sighs again. His head is spinning. "We... may have to shelve this talk for another day."

"Probably for the best," Aventurine murmurs. 

"Just promise me one thing."

"...I'm not going to like it, am I?"

Ratio presses himself a little more insistently against Aventurine. "Remain here, with me. Be there when I wake up. If not anything else, at the very least, let us finish our conversation. Talk to me. Tell me what happened."

Please.

Aventurine has Ratio sling an arm over his shoulders again and helps Ratio to his feet. "Alright," he utters, the light casting a shadow over his face, expression too dark to make out for Ratio to see. "You win this round. Let's get you to bed."

"These are not 'rounds' of a game, you gambler. But if that is how you wish to play it..." Ratio maneuvers Aventurine through his house, directing him to the bedroom. "I believe that my tenacity will win out in the end."

A rueful smile tugs at Aventurine's lips.

He helps Ratio into bed, and as he pauses in the doorway, he utters,

"...You're a cruel, unfair player, doctor."

The ghost of a smile tugs at Ratio's lips.

Victory secured, he slowly drifts to sleep, yet all the same...

...He really hopes Aventurine will still be here when he wakes up.

And as a man beholden to logic, hope is the most dangerous thing he could have.