Hiro watches Hoko float around for a bit before leaning against the wall of the tub again, listening to Akito. Without missing a beat, the prince replied, “Adjusting to a new life doesn’t make you a mess Akito. It just,” He turned his head to look at the man across the tub and raised a brow. “It just means you’re learning and well, adjusting. There’s no need to apologize for it.” 

He really wanted to find a way to help his betrothed relax, considering it was a roller coaster of ups and downs with him. A few times, he’d seem fine and calm while more often than not, he was high strung. With about three days left before the wedding ceremony, Akito would definitely need to be able to stand in front of other royals without feeling like he needed to escape. But really, Hiro just wanted Akito to be more comfortable around him. There was no audience, no one to impress, and no one that would judge and Hiro felt a little bad that Akito couldn’t consider that as a safe space to relax. 

The gears turned in Hiro’s head while he gently nudged a floating Hoko until an idea popped into his mind. He wasn’t sure if it would work, but he figured it was worth a try nonetheless. “You know, Akito,” He started with a soft voice, not wanting his tone to imply anything and spook the male. “Rivers and bathing with your unit... may have been relaxing in their own ways, I wouldn’t know for sure, but I always found hair washes relaxing and calming sometimes too.” He sat up a bit, giving a genuinely curious look. “You seem tense, so I figure it might be worth a try? If you don’t mind me washing your hair of course?”

A small smile appears as Hiro immediately tries to make him feel better. [i]'He really is a kind man. . .'[/i] The smile lingers as they fall into a more comfortable silence, Akito relaxing a bit and letting himself sit comfortably in the tub. He looks over at the mention of his unit and nods, remembering all the fun times of water wars with them. His body tenses however, eyes fixing on a spot in the water as his betrothed asks to wash his hair. He can feel his skin getting tight, ready to either decline or run, but a thought keeps him from doing either, forcing it way to the front of his mind.

[i]'Kaede was right. I'm going to have to get used to being around this man. We are. . . We are going to be together for life, so what's wrong with letting him. . . touch me in some small way? I mean, we will have to. . . . Eventually, but maybe this? Maybe I could. . . I mean, all I have to do is stay still and let him work. And it's not like I have to worry about him going too far. I'm stronger, and he's too kind and considerate for something like that. . . . I have to get used to it, and it's not like I can just ask him at random for some contact, so, he's offering, so. . . .This is a good time, right!?'[/i] He keeps his breathing under control, looking over at Hiro with shy eyes. “Um, sure. That sound. . . I mean, I've never had anyone help me since I was very young, but it sounds nice.” He pauses, then adds quickly, “As long as I can return the favor!” He shrinks a little, realizing he was talking a little too loud and fast at the last part.

Hiro watched for a moment, slowly inching back to lean against the wall, almost expecting him to decline his offer. So when Akito agreed, Hiro couldn’t help but look pleasantly surprised. And when Akito offered to do so in return, the prince smiled even more. “Yes… Yes, of course. That sounds nice.” Well, he wasn’t going to deny a generous offer like it. Hiro sat up again, and waded closer to Akito, settling by his side and gesturing for him to move in front of him a bit. At first, Hiro’s hands rested on Akito’s shoulders, just for the sake of adjusting his legs in order to be comfortable. The moment he started, he began to hum a soft and gentle tune that Kaede sang to him often when he was a child. He didn’t know the words, but he enjoyed the melodic tune nonetheless and not knowing exactly what to say to Akito, he figured he’d fill the silence with a soft tune. His fingers gently combed through his betrothed’s hair, being careful of any tangles that may have been there. He was no professional, but he had gotten his hair washed enough times to at least know what he was doing.

He's glad to see Hiro looking pleased and forces himself not to curl into a little ball as the other man approaches. He follows the direction to shift in front of the prince, tensing against his will as he feels hands settle on his shoulders. [i]'Relax, relax, he's just shifting, calm down!'[/i] Breathing slowly, he adjusts so his hair is easier to reach and closes his eyes. Fingers begin moving through his hair, making his skin tingle. He feels himself tensing more, but keeps his eyes closed, trusting the other man. Then, music starts. It's only a soft humming, but it's soothing and helps Hiro keep his calm. Despite the enjoyable feeling of his hair being worked on, he can't quite calm down completely. Visions of the man behind him keep flashing through his mind, images of what he's seen, and what he hasn't. He worries that his tenseness will cause problems, but as Hiro doesn't chide him, he does his best to focus on the nicer feelings.

Aware of the movements under him, Hiro raised a brow every now and then as Akito tensed but never said anything of it. In fact, he didn’t stop his washing, trying not to make it seem so obvious that he was focused on it. Hiro was just happy that he didn’t shy away, so it was a start. And besides the lighthearted kiss he had given him days before, he realized this was about as close as he had been to Akito since they met. [i]’Baby steps as they say.’[/i] He had met other suitors that wouldn’t hesitate to get so close to royalty so it was a different and relatively nice change of pace to say the least. 

His focus didn’t stay on those subjects for too long, as he found Akito’s long hair much more lovely to focus on. At some point, the song had ended as Hiro washed through his long hair. “How do you manage such nice long hair with a job so dirty?” His question was rhetorical, as he was simply admiring Akito’s hair, but he did offer him a moment to respond.

The question is unexpected, but after a moment, Akito realizes Hiro was actually talking to him. He flushes, trying to think, his mind scattering after being focused on staying calm for so long. “I, when I had the time, would rinse it every night, and then my father had oils I could use to keep it from tangling. I would brush it before and after I slept, and then it would spend most of the day tied up, as you saw. I mean, it would get dirty, but I found it relaxing to have something to do, a kind of ritual I suppose, when I went to bed at night and woke in the morning. Just a little time all about me. . .” He scrunches a little. “Sounds a bit selfish, I know, but, I felt good about it. . . . Still do actually.” His hand comes up, running through his hair thoughtfully. His hand stills as it comes into contact with Hiro's. He freezes, then gently squeezes the man's fingers before quickly pulling his hand back. [i]'Keep going. Keep trying. Have to get used to this. . . .'[/i] His heart thuds against his chest, his slow breathing the only thing keeping him from panic.

Hiro couldn’t help but smile at the answer and continuing his soft smile when Akito squeezed his hand. His answer was cute and it was rather amusing he thought that as selfish. “Akito I’m a prince,” He chuckled softly. “That’s far from a selfish thing to do. It’s just you taking care of yourself.” He hummed in thought for a brief second. “If you’d like some of those oils, feel free to ask. Kaede is usually who I go to when I need things, but any of the servants will be able to fetch things for you.” He gave a small nod, even though Akito couldn’t see before adding. “And you should be, your hair is lovely.” He continued washing Akito’s hair, moving much slower now that he found something to talk about. “I cut my own hair when I was younger.” He chuckled at the memory. “It was always in the way and I managed to always get twigs and leaves in there. Not very… prince-ly I know.” He scratched his own head for a brief moment before continuing. 

“It was also a rebellious thing I suppose.” His laugh was a little sheepish again as he remembered it thoroughly. His father would constantly say that he looked ‘just like his mother’ and in one fitful event the young boy had a messy and disastrous haircut and a few scratches from not using a sharp enough knife. It was why his hair was layered now. He let it grow out to his shoulders, but refrained from letting it grow any longer and now that it wasn’t completely even, his hair had a tendency to fall over one side of his face quite often. Realizing he had slowed, Hiro came to a complete stop and put his hands at his sides. “Ah, I think you’re good to go.” 

He would never dream of calling the man he's to marry selfish, but thinking about it more realistically, he supposes the man is right. If [i]he[/i] were a prince, Akito supposes he would have far more wants and luxuries. [i]'Well, I am, now, kinda. Or I will be. . . . I suppose I will soon have more time for relaxation, and maybe I could stop feeling so bad about time to myself. . . .Though I suppose much of my life will become about Hiro too. . .'[/i] He smiles at the thought, wincing a little at the idea of his betrothed lopping off his own hair haphazardly. He keeps his mind on thoughts of what Hiro must have looked like as a child until at last his hair is finished.

“Thank you.” he murmurs, shifting away and standing up a bit to check Hiro's work. The hair feels smooth and without tangle as he runs his fingers all the way through, and he smiles gratefully at his companion, hair falling against his chest, shoulders, and back like a shroud. His flush returns as he takes the spot Hiro had just been in and he stays completely still as the prince settles in. He takes a moment to relax before setting to work.

There's a lot less hair to deal with than he normally has to mess with. It feels a bit strange, but as he slips his fingers slowly over and over the ends of the longer bits after the tiny end knots, he finds himself relaxing in the same way he does when working on his own hair. Smiling to himself he lets out a soft sigh. “Um, by the way. Taking care of my own hair has helped me become quite skilled with trimming hair. So, if you ever feel the urge to attack yours again, I would be more than happy to help save some inches from early graves.” He tries to make a slight joke, working his fingers further and further up towards Hiro's scalp.

Hiro returned the smile and sank a little lower into the water to get comfortable. The prince immediately relaxes under Akito’s touch, only to cover his mouth and begin to laugh. It was a genuine laugh compared to his soft chuckles and it was one he tried to stifle. “Fortunately, I’ve learned my lesson. I believe I am one and done with that experience, but I trust you and you’ll be the first I go to should I feel my hair has gotten too long for my liking.” When he had settled again, he absentmindedly pushed hair out of his face and relaxed again. “Thank you, by the way. For offering to do this.” 

The laugh concerns Akito for a moment, but he relaxes when he realizes it was his joke striking home. He lets himself laugh a little as well and murmurs, “It would be a pity to lose it now it's come in so pretty.” He flushes again, but focuses on his work. A warm fire settles in his belly as Hiro thanks him and he realizes he's more than happy to be assisting the prince in this manner. It feels genuinely good to not only help out, but to enjoy the feeling of hair between his fingers as he does so. His fingertips finally reach his betrothed's scalp when he responds. “It's my pleasure. . .” His voice is lower than usual, more calm, relaxed, and honestly pleased sounding. “I think. . .” He flushes a little more. “I think, I could get used to this. . . If you don't mind my helping on occasion. . . .” he coughs a little, embarrassed, but not upset. His fingers scrape gently along the skin beneath them, working on the bits of sweat and grime that their outing worked in there.

There was a faint pink to Hiro’s cheeks that he could play off as the heat. Nonetheless he smiled with eyes closed, replying with, “Thank you.” Hiro further relaxed under the touch, debating if he should or could lean back against him. But, he figured that wouldn't be a good idea so he stayed right where he was. The suggestion of this to become a regular thing made Hiro open his eyes in slight surprise. It was much too good an offer to pass up. So with a purr-like tone. Hiro stretched his arms forward. “Youuu can do this as much as you like love, trust me I won't complain~” He had a cheeky grin as he settled back and let Akito work. “Feels wonderful.” He was no stranger to being pampered and it wasn't something he was against. However instead of servants this time around, this was a lot more personal and a lot more intimate. It was definitely nice and he could get used to it. He couldn't help but wonder why he was so eager to help than be helped but decided it was curiosity for later. 

The prince's tone sets a heat deep inside Akito's chest and he wonders if the man even realizes he is causing such a response in his betrothed. He swallows hard as the man between his knees shifts in closer, but his fingers continue working diligently, unwilling to do a sub-par job just because he's feeling warm and tense. He makes sure to get to all the grime he can find, running his fingers over and over through Hiro's hair until he's absolutely sure that he's gotten out ever bit of dust and every snarl. Testing himself, he reaching down and gives Hiro's shoulder a squeeze once he's finished. “All done.” he manages to say without sounding completely pathetic and smiles as he draws his hands back to rest on his knees. He feels good. He did a good thing, and did it well. [i]'Not only did I help him clean and detangle his hair efficiently, but I. . . . I touched him without shaking, even thought we're both. . . . Less than decent'[/i] He smiles wider, letting himself relax a little as Hoko comes over to see what's going on.

Hiro’s eyes slowly open when Akito stops and tells them they were done. As he drifted forward, he playfully pouted. “Aw, but I was soo comfortable.” He laughed a bit and ran fingers through his own hair. “Ooh, it feels softer and cleaner. I gotta keep you around, you do good work.” Of course, he was only joking, but nonetheless he had a grateful look in his eye. It was hard to say whether or not Hiro knew just how flirty he was being, but after their bath, the prince playfully smiled and turned to stand and get out of the cooling tub. “Ah, this was nice.” He looked over his shoulder, back to Akito. “I wouldn’t be opposed to doing this again if you aren’t.” 

Servants had slowly began to file in, staying close to the walls and out of the way. It was a sign that they were ready to clean up after them. As Hiro got out, he was handed a towel to dry off and his new set of clothes- nightwear - had been set out in the room to change into. The servants followed suit for Akito as well, waiting for him to step out. Just as he was finished dressing, Kaede stepped in. “Your father insists you have soup for dinner this evening your highness. Consider it a sickness prevention.” Before Hiro could actually take the towel, she dabbed it on his neck and head You as well, young lord.” She acknowledged Akito as he filed in just after Hiro. The rooms were close in proximity so she was sure he had heard as well. 

This was also an acknowledgment that the dinner was approaching and it was best that the two headed that way. After her message, she left the boys to their own devices. Hiro patiently and quietly waited for Akito, admittedly trying not to let his eyes linger too long and make him uncomfortable. 

“I’m not terribly hungry, but soup won’t hurt.” Hiro commented and gestured out the door. “Shall we head to dinner?” 

Knowing the palace like the back of his hand, Hiro had his eyes closed with his hands behind his back while the two walked together. The servants that passed stopped to bow or nod in respect, but he paid them little mind. Instead, he hummed that familiar tune from the bath only to stop when he heard the shuffling of utensils and smelled food. 

“Are you two-” The Emperor raised a brow at his son, who seemed a lot more peaceful than most times he had come to eat meals. “Hm, you look well. How are the two of you feeling?” The Empress, of course, next to him gave a gentle smile and wave. She was quiet for the most part, seeming to be catching her breath from the movement she had been doing before. There was a woman close by, a nanny of some sort most likely, quick to check on her every so often. 

“Well, I feel fine. A little tired after the trip and the bath, so I don’t think I’ll be here too long.” He had managed to ‘nab’ Hoko as they walked and now the furry little creature crawled through his clothes to find a place in his lap, sniffing a bit for food. 

“And what about yourself Akito?” The Empress chimed in while her husband raised an admittedly curious brow.