Chapter Text
“Say hello to uncle Meteor.” Nox says kindly to the little bundle of joy in his arms. Zephyr is growing nicely- larger than the average child, but that was to be expected. “He’s been eager to meet you.”
Zephyr laughs and Nox’s heart swells. He then looks up to Meteor, whose eyes are as large as saucers, somewhat teary. Nox can’t help but smile. “He gets a bit fuzzy when he gets away from me, don’t be offended.”
Meteor nods almost timidly and gets ready to take Zephyr from him. He had wanted to visit earlier when the healer was still at the house but unfortunately, circumstances forced his hand. Neither Y’shtola nor Estinien had time to visit yet either.
“He has his nose.” Meteor remarks, not unkindly. “It’s… it’s adorable.” Zephyr makes a bit of a fuzz at first as he’s handed over but he settles down rather quickly. It surprises Nox, to be honest. “How are you handling things?” He lets Zephyr tug on his finger as he talks which warms Nox’s heart.
“It’s a bit stressful, I can’t lie. Having Alphinaud over occasionally helps but he’s busy too… I’ve been hiring a maid to take care of the housework for me but I handle Zephyr myself. He’s a rather calm child honestly. He fuzzes and cries as they all do- but for the most time, he laughs… when he’s not sleeping. They sleep a lot at first did you know that? It’s rather fascinating.” Nox smiles brightly. “If you mean to ask if I regret my decision- I do not. He’s… I love him with all my heart, Meteor.”
“It’s all over your face.” Meteor agrees. “I didn’t mean to imply I doubted you- I didn’t think that for a second. Everyone with eyes can see you made the right decision for yourself. I just regret I couldn’t visit you sooner.”
“His big eyes and cute smile already won you over, hm? That’s what Lyse said at least. She’s been very… excited about this but I have to say I appreciate it.” Nox takes Zephyr back from Meteor when he starts to reach for his mother. “How are things with the 13th? I heard something about a fight.”
“Ah, Rubicante… let's just say he uhhh… destroyed our voidgate and Y’shtola is off to research again. That’s why she’s been too busy to visit.” Ah, of course. “She sends her regards though; she wants to come visit next week as a break.”
Nox nods, bouncing Zephyr in his lap. The child cheers sleepily - off to bed with him. “I’ll be happy to have her. Unfortunately, I can’t help her this time…”
“Don’t worry about it.” Meteor shakes his head as he lays a kind hand on Nox’s shoulder. “We all want what's best for you- even if we don’t all necessarily agree on how. Just rest and take care of Zephyr. I’ll try to visit more often- and once you two are good to go out I can show you that island I’ve been talking about. I’m sure it will be a nice change of pace.”
“That sounds lovely, thank you, Meteor.” Nox smiles and marbles on how far they come. It’s a far cry from their relationship in the early days and he’s all the happier for it.