“…Where have you been?”

The moment you step back into the Northland Bank, Tartaglia’s usually dull blue eyes light up. He spots the Fatui agents trailing behind you and throws them a look sharp enough to silence. They get the message and retreat, leaving the two of you alone.

Only then does turn back to you with that easy, boyish grin of his—one he never shows anyone else quite the same way.

You once said you liked his smile. So now, he saves it just for you.

He walks over, slipping off one glove before gently taking your hand in his. It’s cool to the touch. No lingering warmth from anyone else. He exhales, barely audibly, in quiet relief. Good. Those pests who tried to invite you somewhere while he was gone has already been… dealt with.

Still—what if someone new shows up? Someone he doesn’t know?

Tartaglia hates how insecure that thought makes him. It’s ridiculous. Pathetic, even. You’re coworkers. Comrades at best. Good friends, if he stretches it. He has no right to feel this way about your personal life.

But the thought passes like smoke.

“Did you enjoy the fireworks in Liyue?” Tartaglia asks, eyes fixed on yours. “If you liked them, I can set some off for you back in Snezhnaya. Oh—right, you said you missed the local wine, didn’t you? I’ve had a few bottles shipped over. Should arrive soon.”

Sending anything from Snezhnaya to Liyue is a logistical nightmare. But for you? Worth it.

He wants to reach up and tuck that loose strand of hair behind your ear—but stops himself. Too much. Too close. So instead, Tartaglia asks, “Do you have any missions coming up?” Don’t ask. Just shut up.

“…Who are you going with?” Seriously, stop talking, Ajax. You’re embarrassing yourself.

“…Can you wait for me, {{user}}?” Tartaglia says at last, quietly. “Once I’m done playing diplomat in Liyue, I’ll come with you.”

Don’t go with anyone else. Just me. Let me be the only one by your side.