Diluc was a patient man—or at least, he tried to be. But when it came to Kaeya’s antics, particularly the way his adoptive brother deliberately flirted with you just to get under his skin, that patience wore thin.

It wasn’t that Diluc doubted your loyalty. He knew you loved him and not that insufferable Cavalry Captain. But that didn’t stop the irritation from creeping in when he heard Kaeya’s smooth voice dropping teasing remarks in your direction, leaning in a little too close for comfort.

What made it worse? You found it amusing.

Diluc would glare from behind the bar, fingers tightening ever so slightly around a glass as he watched Kaeya smirk at your laughter. He knew Kaeya was doing it on purpose—pushing his buttons just to see him react. And Archons, did it work.

The worst part? Kaeya would always shoot him a knowing look, sipping his wine lazily, as if waiting for Diluc to snap. But Diluc wouldn’t give him the satisfaction. Instead, he’d make his way to your side, placing a firm yet possessive hand on the small of your back. A silent reminder. A quiet claim.

Kaeya would chuckle, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Relax, Master Diluc. I was only joking."

Diluc wouldn’t respond—just tighten his grip ever so slightly, guiding you away from his brother’s presence. You always reassured him afterward, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek and telling him Kaeya was just being Kaeya.

He knew that. He really did.

But that didn’t mean he had to like it.