"Come on Crusch-sama! We're going to be late!"
"In a moment, Ferris," a voice responded in exasperation. Felix grinned wildly. Despite her outward demeanor, Crusch really cared about her appearance and spent a lot of time trying to find the perfect outfit.
The catboy kicked his feet off the side of the chair he was sitting at, waiting patiently. "You don't wanna keep Fourier-sama waiting, do you?"
That seemed to get the duchess's attention. Felix gave a mischievous smirk as he heard frantic footsteps on the other side of the door. In a matter of seconds, Crusch swung open her bedroom door, fully dressed and ready to go.
"Sorry about that, Ferris. Shall we go now?" she proposed. She was wearing a gorgeous light green dress perfect for the hot season. Felix decided to slip on a less suffocating blue dress than what he usually wore, as they would be spending most of their time outside today.
"Hehe, you look as beautiful as ever, Crusch-sama!" Felix complimented.
"Oh stop it, Ferris. You're always such a tease," she grinned. Felix responded by sticking his tongue out.
Now that they were both ready to go, they set off to their destination. A clean, sunny, grassy field away from the bustling cities and carriages. Today would be a day for relaxation, as it wasn't often the three of them got to spend much time together anymore.
Fourier had just been so busy with royal stuff he didn't have the time, similar to Crusch although her duties weren't as dire. However today was different, and Felix made sure to take full advantage of that.
The streets were still lively, shops were open, birds were tweeting. It was the perfect day. Felix kept running ahead of Crusch, not wanting to keep Fourier any longer. He was the prince after all, and although Felix knew he'd never punish them for tardiness, he still acted like his life depended on it.
Crusch was of course taking the more scenic route, stopping by to look at flowers leading an exasperated Felix to start tugging her along. When they finally got to their destination, a young blonde man with ruby red eyes greeted them.
"Felix and Crusch! It's been far too long since I've seen either of you," he greeted. Felix ran up to him and pounced him in a hug.
"Ferri-chan is glad to see you too, nyan!" he said cheerfully. Fourier laughed as he patted his back. He turned to Crusch who looked away bashfully. Fourier's jaw dropped.
"Crusch…you look stunning…" he said in marvel. He was in awe at his friend's beauty, well, technically girlfriend, even if Crusch didn't refer to herself as such.
"Don't make such comments like that. It's embarrassing," Crusch groaned. Felix giggled.
"Nyahaha! Fourier-sama truly knows how to bring out the bashful, romantic side of you, Crusch-sama!" he said with glee. "Meanwhile, Fourier-sama is always acting like a romantic!"
Fourlier chuckled at his quip. "Well Felix, I was raised to be quite charming. I can't help it if girls' knees turn to jelly upon seeing me," he smiled. Crusch pouted and lightly slapped him.
"That's enough, you two!" she shouted. Sighing, Crusch sat on the ground next to Fourier, while Felix was by Fourier's other side. "It's been far too long, Fourier. Have you been feeling well?"
Fourier nodded and stretched his arms. "Yes! You bet! Apart from my old man slamming me with paperwork, I'm doing great! My muscles are a bit stiff though, if only someone were to help me out with—"
"Sorry, you're going to have to try a little harder than that," Crusch interrupted. "I won't fall for your ploys that easily," she teased. Fourier had been starving for Crusch's touch since it's been so long since they've been together, but Crusch wouldn't give in just yet. She enjoyed teasing the man far too much.
Fourier groaned in defeat. "Aww Crusch! I'll get you one day," he jokingly threatened.
"Oh? Like how you'll beat me in a sparring match?" Crusch raised a brow.
"That's too low!" Fourier shouted, causing Felix to giggle.
"Come on, Crusch-sama. Can't you see how sad and lonely Fourier-sama is?" Felix said as his ears twitched.
Crusch exhaled heavily before leaning in close to Fourier, resting her head on his shoulder. "Fine. I suppose a little contact won't be too bad," she said jokingly. She closed her eyes peacefully as she rested against him, and Fourier gave Felix a wink.
"Hey, don't just stand there, Felix," Fourier said. "Come on, bring it in."
Felix blinked in surprise. "I beg your pardon, Fourier-sama?"
"Come on! My other shoulder's right open! Here!" Fourier offered. Felix waved his hands frantically.
"No no no! I can't intrude on your lover's moment! That would be rude of Ferri-chan!" Felix said flustered.
"But Ferris, we love you."
"Huh?"
Felix's ears perked up and his tail swayed side to side. Crusch repeated what she said.
"We love you, Ferris."
The catboy reached a hand up and began fiddling with his ears nervously. "O-Oh Crusch-sama. Y-You don't re-really—"
Fourier sighed. "It appears he needs some persuasion. Crusch?"
The green-haired duchess nodded. In unison, the both leaned towards Felix and pecked him on each of his cheeks respectively.
The catboy let out a shout of surprise and began to roll on the grass beet red. Fourier and Crusch only laughed as they collapsed with him on the hill.
As they laid on the hill, staring up at the bright blue sky, Felix smiled.
"Ferri-chan…loves you all too."
And then he woke up.
Felix sat up straight in his bed. He was already starting to feel the tears in his eyes. This was the third dream this month. He wasn't sure how much more he could take.
He gulped and tried his best to contain himself. "Fourier-sama…" he whispered. It had been well over a year since his passing, and Felix was still not over it. No one was.
At least he still had Crusch, but if anything were to happen to her, Felix was certain he would lose the will to go on.
"I wish you were here," he whispered hoarsely. He tried to go back to the dream he had been having, but instead was only reminded of Fourier's last moments. He silently wept himself to sleep. Just like last time.
And he was sure there would be another.