The request surprised him as much as it did her. They'd been sitting together on the couch reading the latest light novels based on Little One's character Gojira, when Aether suddenly yawned.
"S-sorry," he murmured. "I've been tired lately."
Arlecchino studied his baggy eyes. Anyone could see he needed rest. Now was an opportunity to ask him for that favor she wanted. Did she dare?
"What's up?" he asked.
"Hm?"
"Whenever you've got something to say but are nervous, you purse your lips. "
Arlecchino put a finger to her mouth and realized he was right. It rather pleased her to know how much he paid attention to her. Mastering her emotions, she cleared her throat.
"Would you perhaps… like to use my lap as a pillow?"
He blinked. Her cheeks flushed a bit, realizing how strange that offer sounded. Oh Gods, she didn't think she'd actually say it aloud. Before she could retract the offer, he nodded. She blushed. Well, she couldn't back out at this point.
Arlecchino moved her hands, opening her legs. He bookmarked his novel, placing it on the ottoman. Then, slowly, he got onto his back. That golden mane lowered slowly, inevitably, coming to rest atop her thighs.
Her heart quickened.
She couldn't stifle her worries. Did he like her thighs? They probably weren't soft and smooth like Miko's, or shapely like Ganyu's, or pure of blemishes like Nilou's. She'd never done this sort of thing with anyone before. Was she supposed to do something more? Could he really find comfort resting on the Knave's lap?
His deep amber eyes looked up at her with an appreciative smile.
"You're warm," he said.
"I…am?"
"Yeah," he said dreamily. His eyelids fluttered. "I feel so… safe."
Aether's chest began the rhythmic rise and fall of sleep. She studied his peaceful expression. Unable to control herself, her red fingernails lightly brushed his hair. He sighed a happy sigh which made her rather pleased.
Arlecchino was proud. She got him to sleep in her lap just like those heroes in those saccharine light novels got to with their beloved. Not only that, but he was also enjoying it. One step further in showing her affection.
"Aether," she whispered. "Thank you."
"Pretty sure," he snored, "I should thank you."