“ regardless, i will eat whatever meal you prepare. if you’re as passionate about cooking as you are anything else .. i just know it will be delicious. “
a small head tilt. she had never heard of this meal he had mentioned. she was curious about it.
“ what exactly is that?? “
she questioned — her gaze remaining focused on him. though she did agree he needed to get his strength up, she was just eager to get him home.
++
her expression saddened for a moment before shaking her head.
“ no .. you’re the only one that remembered. they are all too preoccupied i guess. but .. that’s okay. “
she flashed a somewhat reassuring smile that hid her sadness.
“ i’m not .. that special. “
she was so happy she could actually cry. quickly nodding her head.
“ i’ve never gotten a gift before .. — but .. you didn’t have to get me anything .. just seeing you was enough. “
she smiled releasing him from her hold and taking a step back.
— And you think I'd forget? I wouldn't forget a date like this, I even have a gift. That is, if you accept it even though you're late. —
This was his way of apologizing for not showing up on the exact day, but still willing to give it to Nelliel.
— I think it took me longer to come back because I needed some time to adjust to my new Bankai. But now I can finally spend more time in Hueco Mundo sometimes. I wanted to congratulate you on another birthday. —
" what are you going to cook for us ?? "
responding with a warm smile in his direction .. her gaze held nothing but pure happiness just from being with him again.
" and you truly think I would fight you on that ?? I get to taste your cooking .. and you think I'm going to disagree with that ?? you're silly. "
she responded softly — subconsciously her hand would reach for his before she would pull back from becoming a little shy.
⤵⤵
she couldn't help but giggle at his response to her simple kiss .. she didn't expect that reaction. she gave a nod before standing up beside him.
" what would you like to eat ?? I'm good with anything. "
her voice was soft like a gentle rain — her gaze stayed focused on his.
her smile returning at his words followed by a pink hue powdered on her cheeks. he was always so good at sweet talking her.
" you're so sweet. I'm just happy you're back, and in one piece. "
a small laugh leaving her before she dipped down to place a
⤵⤵
He almost wanted to purr when she combed his hair, definitely would do it too considering he trusted her enough.
But... he would like some dignity while he can't move.
❝ I'm alive, and next to cutest girl I know. I think that's more than okay. ❞
blink blink. he must be hurt more than she originally thought. concern was clearly present on her features.
" are you .. okay ?? "
she spoke sitting on her knees beside him .. digits gently combing through his hair — her gaze focused on him.
He's already feeling spoiled, yet at the same time he couldn't really move. It's rare for him to display this level of weakness to anyone, goes to show how much he trusted her.
❝ I could really go for something to eat... but uh... you mind if I rest here a bit❓️❞
reaching out a hand to help him up. she could see he was injured which caused a flash of sadness in her eyes.
" I've missed you more than I thought was possible. let's get you cleaned up and get you something to eat. "
He continues to look up at her, clearly wounded and exhausted from whatever battle he just came from.
Though, he should heal right away— exhaustion and hunger was another issue though.
❝ I missed you too Nel, more than words can describe... ❞
a head tilt . . . once the shock of seeing him again wore off, a smile would form on her features. oh how she missed him.
" Dante .. you came back. do you have any idea how worried I have been ?? "
no venom in her words .. nothing but happiness and relief coated her words.
Moments before he crash landed before her— another fall from orbit and he slowly crawls out of the crater, laying on his back while staring up at her from the ground.
❝ Oh Hey... Nel... been too long... ❞