[F] Under the Starry Sky [Timo]

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

On the morning of July 15, Berwald woke up to the sound of someone knocking gently on his bedroom door. “Ber, are you awake? It's time for breakfast!” his mother called out cheerfully from behind the door. “'m up,” he rasped, his voice thick with sleep. “Good! I'll go and wake your father up so we can all eat together,” she said happily. Berwald rubbed his eyes and yawned before leaning in close to the clock on his bedside table. Even though his face was just a foot from it, the bright red numbers were still fuzzy due to his terrible vision. He was barely able to make out that the small, box-shaped contraption read 5:03. He fumbled around for his glasses clumsily, still very sleepy. “Where...?” he mumbled to himself gruffly. An entire minute passed before he was finally able to find his glasses – How in the world had they ended up under his bed? – and push them onto his face.

The strong smell of coffee and cinnamon greeted the tall blond as he walked into the kitchen. “G'mornin', Fath'r, Moth'r,” he said as he took a seat. His parents greeted him back in unison. His mother placed a warm cinnamon roll on his plate and smiled warmly. He smiled back softly, looking grateful. Cinnamon rolls were his favorite after all. Berwald made sure to take a few bites out of his cinnamon roll before drinking deeply from his cup of coffee. As much as he loved the stuff, he knew his sensitive stomach would complain if he didn't have any food in him before drinking the dark-colored liquid. “Only one cup today, too, Ber,” his mother said, sounding apologetic. The Oxenstierna family was currently doing its best to cut down on costs. They needed to save as much money as they could this month in case the upcoming storm damaged their house. Both Emil and Atalie were surprised, though, when their son did not grumble upon being reminded that he still couldn't have his usual 3 or 4 cups of coffee. However, when Atalie realized what date it was, she almost laughed.

“No complaining today, huh? Are you in a good mood because you're watching the meteor shower with Timo tonight?” she asked brightly, grinning from ear to ear. Berwald flushed deeply and coughed. Emil laughed heartily.

---

Berwald smiled reservedly as he followed behind Timo closely. The small blond was happily leading the way to the gardens of the Hall and the older man couldn't help but think his friend's nearly tangible excitement was adorable. He was excited, too, of course. He had been excited since they had planned this little outing. He was sure tonight would be nothing short of amazing. Just the thought of watching the sky light up with dazzling shooting stars filled him with childlike awe. And the best part was that he would be sharing the wonderful experience with Timo. As the two of them continued to make their way to where the telescopes were, Berwald absentmindedly observed the architecture around him. He didn't visit the Hall often but he couldn't deny that it was a beautiful place.

Turning his attention back to the small blond in front of him, the bespectacled man took to eying the bag Timo was carrying. He purposely lengthened a couple of his strides so that he walked beside the younger man instead of behind him. “S'okay if I carry tha' fer ya?” Berwald asked, gesturing to the bag slung over Timo's shoulders. He mentally scolded himself for not offering to carry Timo's bag sooner. Most people would have figured better late than never but the tall blond still felt guilty. He wanted to help the younger man as much as he could and in any way possible.

[Timo Väinämöinen]

There was no such peaceful wakening for Timo, who had a shift at the café, followed immediately by one at the factory. Not for the first time, he went straight from the factory floor, via his locker, to meet with Berwald. He had a rather bigger bag than last time, though. Fortunately it wasn’t very heavy. As soon as Berwald had proposed that they go and watch the meteor shower together, Timo had agreed and offered to bring blankets. Even in midsummer it would be cold up that high, and besides, it was just nice to be able to snuggle up in something warm if you were going to be out late watching the stars. Timo had also borrowed a thermos flask from work, though, and before leaving the café that morning he’d filled it up with hot chocolate; a nice treat for them.

As usual, he rushed to meet Berwald, and greeted him cheerfully. They met at the train station this time. Timo couldn’t afford the fare. It wasn’t a case if he might be able to do it if he was cautious over the week; Timo already knew that he couldn’t afford it. He’d been lucky in that one of his regular customers had given him a few Sol extra on top of his normal tip when he’d mentioned he was going to meet Berwald to watch the meteor shower, but he’d still be living off what little was in the cupboard and what he could take from work until the end of the month. Timo didn’t let any of that show, though. He didn’t want to worry Berwald! Instead he happily chatted on, eagerly telling Berwald everything that had happened to him recently.

When they reached the Hall, Timo happily led the way, enjoying the gardens, even in the dusk. He wished he had the time and money to come up here more often. He really did like it up here, and at this time of the year the gardens were beautiful. Blinking at the offer, Timo looked at Berwald and then smiled at him brightly. It was nice to have him walking beside him for once rather than a step behind. “It’s all right! I’ve got it!” Timo said, amused that Berwald had obviously only just thought to offer. It was sweet of him to offer anyway, though. “It doesn’t weigh much.” A thought occurred to him, and he beamed at Berwald. “You can carry it on the way back?” He suggested.

As they reached the other side of the hill, Timo was a little disappointed to see that most of the good positions had already been taken. Well, it was quite late in the evening. He led Timo down through the gardens until they came on a telescope a little way from the others, one in a slightly more private position. By the looks of it, they’d have this one to themselves. “What do you think about this one?” Timo asked, bouncing over to it and looking around. It was quite a nice spot, and they’d still have a good view.

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

“Nh,” Berwald grunted in a way he knew Timo understood to be affirmative. He was still a little cross with himself for not offering to carry the younger blond's bag sooner but was happy enough that he was given a chance to help later. He honestly couldn't help but want to do anything he could for his friend. Every time the two of them got together to do something, Timo looked positively exhausted. The last thing Berwald wanted to do was pry into matters that probably weren't any of his business but it was getting harder and harder not to ask questions. The younger man just looked that tired sometimes. Whenever they were together, Timo always had that same bright energy about him but it tore Berwald up every time he noticed the dark bags under his friend's violet eyes or how, sometimes, the younger blond would try to stifle a deep yawn.

For what was probably the thousandth time, he wondered why Timo wasn't saying anything to him about it. Maybe Timo didn't trust him enough yet. The thought hurt the tall blond a little but it wasn't so unreasonable since they had only just started rekindling their old friendship. Maybe Timo thought he was handling whatever situation he was in perfectly fine. The bespectacled blond truly hated disagreeing with the younger man, even in his hypothetical scenarios; but the small blond's health was in such jeopardy that Berwald really couldn't bring himself to think that whatever Timo was hypothetically doing to cope with the situation he was in was totally okay. Maybe Timo just didn't want him to worry. It wasn't very likely but Berwald felt his heart break a little at the thought anyway. He suddenly felt completely helpless.

A comfortable silence settled between the pair as they made their way through the gardens. Berwald looked around at all the people with mild interest and went on to scan the area for a telescope for him and Timo. The whole place was practically littered with telescopes but a lot of people had arrived earlier than them so most of the really good spots were already taken. Berwald heard Timo speak up and shifted his gaze to the spot his friend was bouncing over to. The telescope the small blond was nearing was a little farther away from all the other ones. It also looked like it was completely free. The older man was silently grateful for the privacy. He felt a lot more comfortable knowing that it would be just him and Timo.

Berwald moved closer to the younger man and looked skywards. “Looks good,” he murmured, his tone appreciative. “'m really excited,” he added softly to himself, a tiny smile on his lips. “How 'bout you? S'okay?” he asked back, wanting to make sure Timo was alright with the place as well.

[Timo Väinämöinen]

Speaking of yawns, Timo put the bag down by the telescope and lifted his hand to hide one, curling in a little instinctively, though there was no hiding it. Well, it was already pretty late, so maybe it wasn’t too surprising. “I like it!” Timo said, happily, stretching. He didn’t want to get too settled in case he fell asleep and missed the show. He’d been looking forward to this since they’d arranged it! He hadn’t even seen a falling star before, so he really wanted to make sure he was awake for this.

“It’s good for me!” He said, cheerfully, as he started to unpack his bag, taking the blankets out for him. He’d never been able to buy a proper bed, so at the moment he slept on an old mattress covered in as many blankets and pillows as he’d been able to hoard over the years, so it had been no trouble for him to bring three – one for them to sit on, and one each to wrap around them. Hopefully that would be enough to keep the chill out. If not, Timo had decided that he was going to put his fear of Berwald (which was really ridiculous anyway. The man was his best friend, and he’d saved him on a few occasions, the idea that he’d hurt him was quite frankly insulting and Timo was ashamed of himself for being scared to touch him) and snuggle up to him for warmth. That’s what friends did, right?

Stretching out the first blanket and leaving the other two piled on top of it, still haphazardly folded from when he’d folded them to put them in the bag earlier, Timo then jumped up and moved over to the telescope. Curiously he leant over to look through it, wincing when he found it was out of focus. “O-oh, um, Berwald. Do you know how to use this?” Timo asked, realising he didn’t really. He’d never had the chance to use one before. Still, it couldn’t be too hard, right? “We need to get it into focus!” If Timo had had a watch he would have glanced at it to check the time, but he didn’t, so he just hoped they had plenty of time. And if not… well, the shower was meant to go on for a long time, right? So surely they’d be able to get it sorted before the end of it. And it still should be visible by human eye!

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

Berwald tried not to frown as he watched Timo yawn into his hand. If he hadn't been aware that the small blond always seemed to be bordering on total exhaustion, he would have found the yawn adorable. Well, technically speaking, he did still think it was cute – for he found almost everything Timo did cute – but his mind was focused on the fact that his friend was yet again showing signs of tiredness. It was getting late, sure, but it wasn't so late that it justified yawning like that. The worry that was almost constantly nipping away at the back of Berwald's mind was suddenly pushed to the very front of it. He felt the familiar urge to just scoop Timo into his arms and bring him to his flat so he could sleep. But despite his concern for Timo, it was fairly easy to control that particular urge for various reasons. The main ones being: 1) Timo would never allow him to carry him like that, and 2) they would miss the meteor shower.

Berwald's concern for the younger man still weighed heavily on him, however, and he wished there was some way for time to move faster so Timo could get to bed sooner. But when that thought truly struck him, he realized a part of him didn't want time to move faster. He wanted to spend as much time as he possibly could with Timo. The tall blond's lips unconsciously twitched downwards at his conflicting emotions. Berwald grunted softly when the younger blond responded positively to his earlier inquiry. He silently watched Timo take three blankets out of his bag, stretch one of them out on the ground and lay the other two down. The tall blond hummed appreciatively as he eyed the blanket-covered patch of ground. “Thank you, T'mo,” he mumbled gratefully.

Just as the bespectacled blond was about to sit down, Timo spoke up. He grunted thoughtfully at his friend's question before replying. “Nev'r used one b'fore. Lemme try fixin' it, though. Can't be too hard ta f'gure out,” he said, moving towards Timo and the telescope. Berwald took his glasses off before peering into the telescope with his right eye, instinctively shutting his left one. It was blurry, very blurry. He looked up, put his glasses back on and examined the telescope. An indistinct murmur left his lips when he discovered he could turn some sort of knob-thing located on the telescope's side. He removed his glasses again, looked back into the telescope and experimentally turned the knob a few times. He was pleased to see the projected image of the stars sharpening.

When Berwald was finally satisfied with his adjustments, he moved back, put his glasses back on and gestured for Timo to take a look. “S'fine now,” he mumbled, smiling lightly in triumph.

[Timo Väinämöinen]

Amused that Berwald hadn’t ever used a telescope easier, Timo hopped a little closer so he could watch the taller man as he played around with it. He wanted to know how to do it too! It was a bit silly that neither of them had looked that up before, but perhaps Berwald had assumed that Timo knew how to use one. Quickly, though, watching how Berwald looked without his glasses distracted Timo. Actually, he looked even more scary than normal, perhaps because of the way he had to squint to see. But in a way that was adorable in itself, once Timo got used to the glare.

“Did you get it?” He asked, interested, when Berwald leant in again to see how he’d done. Noting the dial he was fiddling in, Timo leant in until they were lightly touching, shoulders against each other. Nothing more than Timo’s usual friendliness, of course, but something he’d been a little too scared to do before. When Berwald let him look, Timo smiled, then shifted in so he could peer though. “It’s pretty!” He said, as he took in the view. He hadn’t seen anything like this before! Taking another look, he smiled, enjoying the view, but then pulled away and headed to his bag.

He returned to Berwald’s side with a page he’d torn out of the morning’s paper. It had a map on it, showing exactly where in the sky the meteors should appear and when. Timo held it up against the sky so he could try and find the right spot in the sky to keep an eye on. He frowned in concentration, skimming over groups of stars until he eventually found the right spot. After that it was pretty easy to align the telescope so it was lined up to pick up that spot in the night sky, then he beamed at Berwald. “We’re all set, then, we just have to wait.” He said, happily, folding up his paper again. He was planning to keep that as a memory of his night.

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

Berwald hummed in agreement, shifting his gaze from his friend to the stars above. Even without the telescope's magnification, the sky looked amazing, littered with thousands of glittering stars. Perhaps it even looked better like this, the tall blond thought. The delicate details of the constellations weren't as visible without the telescope but the tall blond didn't like how the contraption limited his view of the sky. When he noticed the younger man pulling away and moving towards his bag, the tall blond decided to make use of the telescope again anyway. He took his glasses off once more and leaned forward to peer into the telescope. Despite the rather tiny leeway of vision the device provided, the stars looked even more beautiful when they seemed so close. If only there were some way to see more of them at a time...

When Berwald heard Timo approaching, he pulled away and put his glasses back on. He noticed a scrap of paper in the other blond's hand. He opened his mouth to ask what the paper was for but when the younger man held it up to the sky, it was apparent that it was a map of the stars. He watched Timo study the map, obviously searching for the place in the sky where the meteors were predicted to appear. Berwald could easily tell when his friend had succeeded in locating the right spot. It was near impossible to miss the twinkle in those expressive, violet eyes.

The older man stepped aside to let Timo adjust the alignment of the telescope so that it was aimed directly at the correct spot in the sky. He returned Timo's bright smile with a tiny one of his own and grunted affirmatively. “S'good ya brought tha'. Didn't think'f pr'parin' tha' far,” he admitted sheepishly as he watched the small blond put the useful piece of paper away. Berwald looked up at the sky again before finally deciding to settle down on the blanket Timo had laid down on the ground earlier. He sat cross-legged and made sure to leave plenty of space for the other blond. It was comfortable. He glanced around briefly and was pleased to find no one else in the immediate area. Berwald waited for the younger man to settle down on the blanket as well before speaking again.

“Hm... Wish m'p'rents could be here ta watch. Trav'lin' ev'n jus' short distances tires 'em out too much... They didn't go to the lant'rn p'rade this year eith'r,” he said softly, his tone carrying just a small hint of sadness and worry. “Well, ev'n then, 'm glad it's jus' the two'f us here. We don't get to spend enough time t'geth'r. Wish ya lived clos'r.”

[Timo Väinämöinen]

Noticing Berwald’s small smile, Timo’s only grew. He always liked to see him smile. It had taken him a while to notice the way that Berwald smiled when they’d first met, but once he’d learnt to notice the small changes in his expression, he’d set out to make him smile as often as possible, and his stomach fluttered at the thought that the smile might be for him. It felt so much better to see Berwald smile than anyone else because his smiles were so rare. He peered through the telescope once more to hide a blush, and stayed there for a little while Berwald settled himself on the blanket.

Once Berwald seemed settled, Timo came to join him, sitting close enough that they were just a hair’s breadth apart. Pulling his blanket over his shoulders to keep him warm, he leant in a little towards Berwald’s warm form too. “I wish they could come too.” He said, sounding just as worried as Berwald. He frowned a little bit to hear that they couldn’t go to the parade, already thinking of ways that they could bring the parade to them next year. “They might be able to see some of it from home, though.” He pointed out to reassure Berwald. “And we can tell them all about it!”

Timo blushed darkly when Berwald said that he was happy that it was just them, even though he wasn’t entirely sure why. “I’m glad you’re here too. I’m sorry I don’t have much time outside of work…” He trailed off, a little upset. It was tiring, working two jobs and still trying to find time to come and visit Berwald, and it bothered him when he couldn’t see him. Working and then coming home to sleep had been fine for four years, but now it was getting too much. How did other people have lives outside of work? How on earth did anyone pay for anything better than what Timo had? Part of the young man was starting to feel a little suspicious that he was missing out on something, but on the other hand he was just so trusting that he couldn’t imagine his boss doing anything like that. He was a good man. He wouldn’t take advantage of him like that, would he? Drawing the blanket tighter around himself, Timo frowned into the darkness, and then sighed softly. “My boss said he might have to raise my rent soon too.”

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

As Timo settled himself on the blanket, Berwald's cheeks colored lightly at his proximity. The younger blond rarely dared to be this close to him. It was... nice. His intimidating appearance usually gave people a reason to keep a safe distance. Timo was near enough for Berwald to just barely catch the scent of his hair. He remembered the last time they hugged and vaguely noted that he still smelled the same, still smelled nice. Timo leaned in slightly and Berwald noticed that his friend's smaller form was somewhat cold despite the blanket draped over his shoulders. Well, colder than he was at least. He resisted the strong urge to sling an arm over his friend's shoulder, draw him closer and share his own blanket. The last thing he wanted to do was scare the small blond off. But Berwald couldn't shake the most peculiar feeling that he had done a very, very similar act before, even though he was so sure he had never done anything of the sort.

Berwald grunted softly in agreement, grateful for Timo's reassuring words. His parents wouldn't have a view as nice as his and Timo's but it was better than nothing at all. Unsurprisingly, he began to feel guilty at that thought but then he immediately felt better when he recalled his mother's smile as she told him to have a good time. “Hn, did ya go ta the lant'rn p'rade?” the tall blond asked curiously as an afterthought. “Almos' didn't go. Didn't want ta go alone, too many people. But Moth'r asked me ta send lant'rns off fer her and Fath'r,” he said. “Wasn't alone in the end, though. Made a friend. Sort'f,” he added after a short pause.

“Ah, don't apol'gize. S'not yer fault. Work and rest're more imp'rtant,” Berwald said, thinking to himself that he was being a bit of a hypocrite. He'd gladly sacrifice sleep in favor of spending more time with Timo. Work was a different matter, however. He was the sole breadwinner of his family and he needed every bit of Sol he could earn to support his parents. “B'sides, should be enough fer me tha' we get ta see each oth'r at all. 'm sorry fer bein' self'sh,” he mumbled, sounding ashamed for wanting even more of his friend's time. Berwald awkwardly smoothed his blanket out a little, guilt making his stomach churn. But as soon as Timo mentioned the chance of his rent being raised, guilt gave way to concern. Berwald turned to look at the younger man with worry-filled eyes. Timo was already juggling two jobs to pay for his rent. The idea that he'd have to pay even more was startling. “What?” the older blond barely choked out. “But... ya already work so hard. Why does he have ta raise it?” he asked, his tone more gruff than usual due to his surprise and concern.

[Timo Väinämöinen]

Through the blankets, Timo could feel Berwald’s warmth, and it was tempting just to snuggle into him. Had it been anyone else he would have. But as it was Berwald he was a little bit scared – scared, he suddenly realised, of doing anything that would make him uncomfortable or uneasy. Reluctantly he kept the slight distance between them, thinking that if he judged the moment right he would lean into Berwald. He briefly remembered what it was like to have Berwald’s arms around him and flushed lightly. It was a pity he’d spent so long afraid to touch him!

“Of course I went!” Timo said cheerfully. “It’s a pity I didn’t see you, though I suppose after so long a few weeks don’t really matter.” He was glad to hear that Berwald had made a friend, though. Berwald should have lots of friends! Goodness knew that the man deserved them. “That’s great! What’s he like? Are you still in touch with him?” He asked eagerly, wanting to find out more.

Timo smiled and shook his head. “Well… work is more important, but only because I need the money to live! I can manage without a bit of sleep, and I don’t mind doing so to see you.” He said cheerfully. “And if you’re being selfish then I am too. I want to see you more all the time.” Chuckling he curled the edge of his shirt around his finger and looked down at it, cheeks faintly red. “Sometimes I think even if I got to see you every day it wouldn’t be enough.” That was true enough. Recently he’d spent far too long thinking of all the times they spent together at school and how lucky he’d been to have Berwald right on his doorstep.

“Oh, um… He said electricity went up.” Timo said, still playing with his shirt. “And maybe I’m just not working hard enough. Everyone else seems to manage fine.” He tucked his legs in and wrapped his blanket around himself, looking up at the night sky. He didn’t want to trouble Berwald with his problems; the man had enough as it was caring for his parents. So he just gave him a fond smile. “I’ll find a way to manage, I always have.” He reassured him, resting his hand lightly over Berwald’s and then leaning in just a little so he was lightly resting against Berwald’s side. “And I’ll make sure there’s plenty of time for me to come and see you!”

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

“He's...” Berwald paused for a brief moment, trying to come up with the appropriate words to describe the young man he had befriended at the lantern parade. “He's polite. Pr'tty shelt'red. Consid'rate,” he stated simply. “While we were walkin', he lit his lant'rn wrong and it caught fire. I stamped it out fer 'im and then m'shoe caught fire, too. He walked me to a firs' aid station aft'r tha',” he mumbled, recalling the sharp stinging sensation he had felt in his foot. “Was nice of 'im ta wait fer me. His name's Kiku. Highland'r. We exchanged numb'rs but we don't really talk. Told me he'd like ta v'sit the woodw'rk shop some time, though,” he said, shrugging his shoulders lightly. Berwald was quite surprised that he'd been able to say so much in such a short span of time but, after giving it a little thought, figured that he really shouldn't be. He had always been able to talk more when he was with Timo. Well, even then, he still didn't say much but it was definitely loads better than how the bespectacled blond usually limited his conversations with other people to grunts and monosyllabic words. When it was just him and Timo, he would actually tell stories and share experiences – in his usual inarticulate way of speaking, of course. Still, to Berwald, it was something.

Berwald blushed deeply and opened his mouth to disagree but only found that his voice had left him altogether out of shock – a pleasant but somewhat dubious sort of shock. It was just impossible for Timo to honestly feel that way. The tall blond was perfectly certain that there was nothing interesting or remarkable about him that would make the younger man actually want to spend that much time with him. And yet, as he listened to the other blond speak and laugh, as he watched him cutely curl his shirt with a faint blush on his cheeks, he could find nothing but complete sincerity in both his words and actions. Swallowing thickly, he silently resolved himself to say what was on his mind before he chickened out completely. “I don't think... ev'ryday would be enough fer me eith'r,” he rasped out slowly and quietly, his eyes on the star-filled sky, aware that he wouldn't be able to hold Timo's gaze due to sheer embarrassment.

“Don't say tha'. Tha' can't be the reas'n... Yer not like tha', ya always, always work hard,” he mumbled fervently, shifting his gaze from the sky to look at his friend. When he felt Timo's hand rest lightly on his, he noted that it was cold. And as the other blond leaned into him ever so slightly, he felt the strongest urge to... do something, even if he thought he didn't have the guts to. It was Timo's words of assurance that he'd set aside time to see him that convinced Berwald to act. Gathering courage he wasn't sure he had, he turned his hand over so that his palm was against Timo's. He squeezed the younger man's hand reassuringly and met his gaze. “'m... 'm here fer ya, 'kay? 'm sure ya can manage but... if there's any way I can help, tell me. Please,” he requested quietly.

[Timo Väinämöinen]

Polite and considerate sounded like a perfect match for Berwald, and Timo smiled brightly. While he was still sad he’d missed him, he was glad he’d met someone nice enough to help him. “That must have hurt!” He said, with a worried glance. “Was it badly hurt? Is it all healed up now?” He asked. At least it had been seen to, and Berwald clearly wasn’t limping so it couldn’t be too bad. It was a little sad that the man was a highlander. While Timo was generally optimistic and positive about people, he couldn’t help but think that it was unlikely that he’d come down to visit Berwald. Of course, he didn’t know the man, so he couldn’t be certain, and he hoped that he’d be surprised, but the lowlands was no place for a privileged highlander.

Timo could think of hundreds of things about Berwald that made him more than worth spending time with. But then, he didn’t really understand what made Berwald want to spend so much time with him either. He was happy that he did, though! He was always grateful for his company. “Maybe one day I’ll be able to move close to you again.” He said, sounding hopeful, but unconvinced. It was nice to dream, though! Or maybe, and even Timo didn’t dream of saying this out loud, maybe one day they’d be able to live together. That thought made his heart leap and butterflies form in his stomach, and he blushed darkly. How could such a simple idea make him feel so happy?

Surprised when Berwald turned his hand over beneath his, Timo looked down at their linked hands in the darkness for a moment, then beamed and squeezed his hand softly. His words were enough to flood him with reassurance that actually everything would be all right in the end. If he had Berwald with him he felt like he could scale mountains and swim seas. “Thank you.” He said, affection spilling out in his words and smile as though he couldn’t contain his love for Berwald and his constant and reassuring strength. “That means a lot to me.” He wouldn’t ever ask Berwald for money – he would never be able to live with himself if he had to – but it was nice just to know that he was there. He leant in a little more, holding Berwald’s gaze for just a little longer than perhaps was normal, before he saw light out of the corner of his eyes and looked away. “Look! It’s started!” Sure enough, lights were streaking through the sky where the falling rocks hit the atmosphere, and Timo held onto Berwald’s hand a little tighter, clearly unwilling to release him now. “Berwald, it’s beautiful!”

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

“S'bett'r now,” Berwald reassured. The burn had been nothing too severe. It had been diagnosed as a very light second degree burn that pretty much bordered on first degree. Though it had caused him to limp for a couple of days and really stung quite a lot, especially whenever he had tried to shower, the tall blond was thankful for the minimal damage afflicted on his foot. His shoe had fared a lot worse, however, and being forced to take money from his savings to buy a new pair had been awful. Berwald's mother hadn't been very pleased either on account of the fact that her son had two jobs to work, one of which was already very strenuous on a body with two good feet. His father had been concerned as well but to a much lesser extent. He knew his son could take it. Lifting heavy boxes all day on an injured foot had proved to be a challenge but the bespectacled man persevered, as he always did in trying situations.

“I'd... really like tha',” Berwald mumbled sincerely. He caught the tone of uncertainty in Timo's words but it didn't matter. It wasn't completely impossible after all. Even if Timo never moved out of the flat he was currently living in, Berwald would still have to move out of his parents' house someday. He couldn't exactly wrap his mind around when that was ever going to happen, though. He swore to himself that he'd take good care of his parents until they were both... gone. Determined not to be saddened by his own careless thoughts, Berwald began to wonder what it'd be like to live near Timo again. Maybe the two of them could have breakfast together sometimes – out in a cafe or in one of their flats, it didn't matter. Maybe Timo would have that puppy he's always wanted by then and they could walk him – her? – together, in the evening on work days and in the afternoon on days off. Maybe Timo would agree to moving into a larger flat with him and they could be flatmates. Berwald didn't notice the fierce blush coloring his friend's cheeks. He was too preoccupied with trying to fight down a heavy blush of his own.

Berwald's breath caught in his throat and his grip on the younger blond's hand tightened slightly. His heart was thumping wildly. He tried to will his heartbeat to slow down but he honestly couldn't help it when Timo spoke to him like that, looked at him like that. Berwald held the younger man's gaze without hesitation and he suddenly felt like he was lost, lost but more content than he could ever remember being. Timo looked away and the tall blond just barely registered that the meteor shower had started. His eyes still couldn't leave Timo's face, now lit with awe and wonder directed at the falling stars in the sky above them. He felt his friend grip onto his hand a little tighter. It was then that Berwald really noticed that Timo's hand was soft and smooth and perfect. He immediately felt that he should apologize for the roughness of his own hand and pull away but, for some reason he couldn't even begin to fathom, he chose to squeeze Timo's hand in return instead. He then looked to the sky, lit with hundreds of falling stars, and it was almost like the world stopped around him. Almost because he could still hear the delighted shrieks of laughter of children several meters away, could still sense the stab of guilt in the back of his mind because he knew his parents couldn't see what he was seeing, could still feel his heart beating erratically in his chest— but, in that moment, none of those things mattered. He silently relished the things that did matter: the dazzling sky above him and Timo's calming presence beside him.

“S'beautif'l,” Berwald agreed in a whisper.

[Timo Väinämöinen]

Nodding at Berwald’s reassurance, Timo was pleased to hear that. He’d have worried to find out that it was still hurt after so long. He was a little worried anyway, thinking of all the hard work he’d have had to do. “I guess you must have had to get new shoes as well.” He said, thoughtfully. That would have been the worst part for him. Timo briefly glanced down towards his shoes, frowning just a little. He’d have to replace them soon and he was already dreading having to spend that money. At least the thought of them living close was enough to cheer him up, and he pushed his troubles away for now. Tonight was about good things.

Blushing even more as Berwald squeezed his hand back, Timo curled into his side more. There was something warm and comforting about the other man, and something so familiar about this. It felt right. He sat in silent awe, enjoying the perfect moment as the stars seemed to fall above them, bright flashes of light streaking through the sky. After a while, though, he reluctantly moved. Keeping a hold on Berwald’s hand, he pulled him up and over towards the telescope. “I want to get a closer look!” Suddenly, though, he was very reluctant to release Berwald, and rather than bounding away to the telescope as he normally would, he waited for Berwald to rise with him, softly stroking the back of his rough hand. He loved that sensation, loved the way he could feel the toll of Berwald’s work on his hands. If he had the choice, he’d never let go.

Pulling him over to the telescope, he peered in first, staring up at the stars. He had to adjust the telescope just a little to get it in the right place, but then he made a noise of awe as he took in the beautiful spectacle close up. After only a moment, though, he jumped aside, pulling Berwald by their linked hands towards the telescope so he could have a look too. “It’s amazing! I’ve never seen anything like it.” He paused then, smiling to himself. “Well, I think that the lights festival is just as beautiful, but this… this is different.” He squeezed Berwald’s hand again, leaning into him a little more as he looked up at the skies. “Wouldn’t it be nice if there was always displays like this!”

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

“Hn. Felt like a waste... S'not tha' I r'gret helpin' Kiku or anythin', though. S'jus' good ta save Sol,” Berwald said, shrugging his shoulders and frowning slightly. Prior to the flaming lantern incident, his shoes had been perfectly fine and could have lasted until the end of the year. Of course, there was no use dwelling on it. Going over budget was never a good thing but his family was thankfully used to out-of-the-blue situations like this one and they adapted accordingly. His mother had already adjusted this month's groceries to come out much cheaper than usual. His father had even offered to pawn off one of his possessions again for some extra Sol but Berwald just couldn't accept. He always felt terrible whenever his father had to resort to pawning his things. He'd told his father that it was fine and that he'd just take longer delivery shifts for a few days.

Berwald blushed darkly when he felt Timo move even closer to him. The scent of the small blond's hair was a lot easier to catch now. It was sweet and sort of flowery. Berwald loved it, loved it so much that he had to consciously prevent himself from burying his face in his friend's hair. The feeling of Timo being so close... it felt nice, it felt right. His body was practically screaming at him to pull the younger blond even closer to him. Even a part of his mind was urging him to do so. A larger part of his mind was even more adamant, however. It reminded him that he shouldn't do anything so rash since it very well might frighten Timo off and all the brilliant physical contact would stop altogether. And as soon as he had that particular thought, as if fate was cursing him, Timo moved away slightly to get up. “I want to get a closer look!” Timo explained. The only thing that stopped Berwald from practically drowning in disappointment was the fact that Timo was still holding his hand while lightly stroking the back of it. He swallowed nervously, blush deepening at how pleasant such a simple action felt.

Berwald stood up and let Timo lead him by the hand to the telescope. He looked back up to the sky as the other blond peered into the telescope and adjusted it. He shifted his attention back to his friend, however, when he heard him let out a sound of amazement. 'Cute,' he thought fondly, a small smile forming on his lips as he gently squeezed Timo's hand again. At the younger man's coaxing tug, he moved closer to the telescope to peer into it as well. He pulled his glasses off and pocketed them as he listened to the small blond talk. He looked into the contraption and what he saw through it nearly took his breath away. It was amazing. The shooting stars looked so beautiful when they were magnified like this. It wasn't as stunning as watching the entire sky light up with the falling meteors but getting to see some of them in such detail was a wonder in itself. Feeling Timo squeeze his hand softly only made the experience better. He looked up from the telescope and, without putting his glasses back on just yet, faced Timo and replied to him, “Yeah, tha'd be nice. S'okay tha' they don't happ'n so oft'n, though. Makes 'em feel more special.”

[Timo Väinämöinen]

That was true. Timo hadn’t even thought about that. Still… “I don’t know, I don’t think I could ever get used to something as nice as this! I suppose they wouldn’t have the telescopes out if it was a normal thing, though.” And then they wouldn’t have had such an excellent excuse to meet up. If nothing else, it was worth such events being so sparse in order that he could have Berwald to himself for the evening, and in such lovely settings too. Timo felt a little guilty for thinking that, but then again after so long apart perhaps he deserved to have some quality time with Berwald. They needed time to catch up on all the years that they’d missed out on!

As Berwald pulled away from the telescope, Timo scooted over to have another look himself, peeking through, moving it a little so he could follow one of the meteors as it fell. Eventually, though, he was satisfied with what he’d seen and he pulled away again. Timo released Berwald’s hand finally, and ignored the feeling of loss as he headed back to their blankets. He huddled up in his, and then pulled his bag forward to get the hot chocolate out, holding it up for Berwald to see.

“Time for hot chocolate!” He said, cheerfully. “I hope it’s still warm. My boss said that the thermos should keep it warm, but I had to get it when I finished work at the café this morning.” He suddenly realised that he hadn’t got a second cup either and he blushed a little, letting out a soft noise of embarrassment. “Are you all right with sharing the lid to drink from with me?” If not, he’d just let Berwald have it.

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

As soon as Timo released Berwald's hand, it became apparent to the older blond that it'd take a considerable amount of effort to quell the feelings of disappointment and loss curling in his gut. Without even thinking, he hurriedly stuffed his hand into his coat pocket, as if trying to keep what was left of the younger blond's warmth there. He wordlessly followed his friend back to their blankets and draped his over his lap. Properly huddling in it like Timo had just done would require both of his hands and, though he knew it was rather childish of him, he was quite unwilling to take his hand out of his pocket just yet.

Berwald's lips twitched upwards slightly at the sight of the small blond happily holding a thermos up for him to see. “'m sure it'll taste fine ev'n 'f it's not. 's been a while since I last had anythin' choc'late,” he said, vaguely recalling the small batch of chocolate brownies his mother had baked months ago. “S'okay with me,” he said, a little amused that Timo thought he might mind sharing. “Sorry fer not bringin' anythin'. Should've gott'n Moth'r ta bake us a batch of cinnam'n rolls. Next time we meet up, I'll bring ya some,” Berwald said in earnest. He happily recalled that cinnamon rolls used to be their usual snack when they hung around his house since they were his favorite. He wondered if Timo still remembered that about him.

A cool breeze blew past the two of them and Berwald just barely managed to suppress a tiny shiver. He didn't know how long he could keep up not making proper use of his blanket but he at least knew he could be really hard-headed about some things. He looked up at the sky and smiled reservedly to himself. “S'really pretty... 'm glad we came here t'geth'r, Timo,” he said quietly, his eyes still trained on the stars.

[Timo Väinämöinen]

“You didn’t need to bring anything!” Timo said, quickly, smiling at him. “I just brought this from work because I thought it’d be a bit chilly up here.” He hadn’t even paid for it or the ingredients, so it really wasn’t a big thing. Besides, the sugar boost would probably be a good thing. It’d help to keep them awake. “…I do miss your mum’s cinnamon rolls, though.” He admitted with a little bit of a chuckle as he poured a lid full and then carefully passed it over to Berwald, not wanting to spill any of the warm liquid. After a day in the themos it was just at the right temperature to drink, maybe a tad cold, but still warm enough to warm them up in the chilly night air.

Noting that Berwald hadn’t put his blanket back on, Timo decided to do it for him, unfolding it and then leaning in to drape it over his shoulders. “You’ll get cold sitting with it in your lap.” He said, with an affectionate smile. He didn’t mean to mother Berwald, but he didn’t want him to get ill either. Especially since Bewald was responsible for his whole family! Timo would feel awful if he got ill because Timo had dragged him up here in the cold. Scooting in closer, he decided to use his body warmth to help Berwald warm up again… and maybe to warm himself up a little as well. With his side pressed up against Bewald’s, he finally relaxed again, the thermos between his thighs as he waited for the older blonde to pass the lid back.

“I’m glad too. I was worried I’d have to work tonight and I’d miss it. This is so much nicer.” He said, softly, happily, as he gazed up into the stars. “What do you think it’s like up there? It’s probably cool and quiet.” Timo was aware that before WWIII people had visited space, but that seemed like an impossible dream now. They couldn’t even get satellites up there to survey what was left of the world. “I think it must be lonely, though. I wouldn’t have liked to be an astronaut when there’s so many things to do and see as it is.” He glanced at Berwald then and gave him a gentle smile. “Besides, I’d have missed you!”

[Berwald Oxenstierna]

“Thoughtf'l of ya. Thanks. Really is cold up here,” Berwald commented, fighting back a shiver. “Next time we meet, a whole batch jus' fer ya,” he promised again. “If Moth'r can't make ya a batch tha' day, I'll make 'em m'self. Can't bake as well as she can, o'course, but I'm pretty good at it,” he said. The tall blond only started learning how to bake a couple of years ago but, surprisingly, he had quite a knack for it. He wondered sometimes that had he hung around the restaurant his mother used to work at more than his father's woodwork shop, he might be a chef now or something. Berwald accepted the lid carefully with a light nod of thanks. He promptly took a deep gulp, eager to warm himself up a bit. He found the drink's sweetness and warmth to be very comforting. “S'good,” he murmured before drinking more from the lid.

Berwald felt his heart double its pace as Timo leaned in closer to place his blanket around his shoulders. Instead of averting his gaze out of embarrassment like he normally would have, he watched the small blond curiously. He was so unused to this kind of closeness. If his mother had done this sort of thing for him, he probably would have felt embarrassed at being treated like a child. But this was different. It felt natural for Timo to take care of him in this small way. Upon seeing the affectionate smile on his friend's lips, Berwald knew he'd never let anyone else do things like this for him. He noticed Timo moving in closer again and hummed contentedly when he felt the younger man's side press up against his. He finished off his drink in three more gulps and handed the empty lid to his friend so he could have his turn. “Thank you, Timo,” he mumbled, his tone noticeably relaxed and happy.

Berwald shifted his gaze from the stars at those words. He took in the younger blond's gentle smile and his heart swelled with affection. “'m glad ya don't want ta be one. Would'a missed ya, too,” he replied honestly. He paused a little, thinking, before adding, “If ya ev'r change yer mind, though, lemme know. I'll be one, too, so we can go t'gether. Wouldn't be so lonely, then.” Some people probably would have thought it strange but Berwald firmly believed that even if it was just the two of them, they'd be okay. As long as Timo stayed by his side, he felt like he could do anything. “No gravity up there so ya'd jus' float around, right? Sounds like fun,” he said, smiling a little.

[Timo Väinämöinen]

“Oh… maybe we should make them together sometime!” Timo suggested eagerly, a faint blush on his cheeks. For some reason the idea of anything made by Berwald sounded even better than something made by his mother. Besides, the idea of Berwald in an apron was too cute to bear! “I didn’t know you could bake, though.” He smiled at him brightly. “Did Atalie teach you? Aaah~ I want to try something that you’ve made!” Perhaps it said something about Timo that the young man really did believe that Bewald could turn his hand to anything he tried.

Timo was pleased that Berwald sounded happy, and he just watched him, as best he could from tucked in against his side. It was a lot warmer pressed up against the bigger man too, and Timo hummed happily as he took the cup, pouring himself some hot chocolate and settling in to enjoy it. The warm, rich liquid filled his stomach, and he felt better for it. Hopefully that would tide him over until his shift in the morning.

Chuckling happily at Berwald’s offer, Timo reached over and squeezed his hand. Normally he’d have thought that it’d be lonely just with the two of them, but for some reason it didn’t seem so bad if it was just him and Berwald. “We could take the puppy too.” He said, laughing. “If we ever get one.” He finished the rest of his hot chocolate and started to pour a second cupful for Berwald. “Yeah, zero gravity! That sounds like a lot of fun, doesn’t it?” He giggled, looking at Berwald as he passed the cup over. “I could float so that I’d actually be the same height as you for once.” Normally Timo was a little self conscious about his small stature, but at least Berwald was tall enough that he was pretty much taller than everyone so there was no point worrying about it.

“We’d be able to look round and see if there’s anywhere else that wasn’t flooded too!” Timo said, enthusiastically. “Maybe we’d be able to see Europe or Australia or even the North Pole! We could go looking for Father Christmas!” Timo knew that his family came from Finland, and he’d looked it up online, but it was nothing like being able to actually see it. And if he could see it with Berwald? Well, all the better. Who wouldn’t want to go traveling with their best friend?