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“Good work today, Ace.” the octopus mer told the freshman, who was sitting on one of the stools, having called for a break just moments before. His face brightened slightly, and even though no smile came to his face, his eye glimmered with joy. He gave a polite nod in response. Though, Azul noticed the plush the boy was holding in his arms. It was one of the oh so benevolent Sea Witch. He blinked.
“I was unaware that they sold plushes of the Sea Witch.” he commented, looking at it with curiosity. Ace blinked. He dug through his pocket, taking out that coin he always has with him, and flipping it. Landed heads. He took out his notepad.
My family went to the Coral Sea once. There were souvenirs, and I saw the plushie there.
“I see.” Azul hummed “Are you fond of plushes?” Ace gave a nod, writing on the notepad.
They’re soft and cuddly.
“I suppose people like those sorts of things.” Azul stated with a shrug. He personally didn’t see why people liked those kinds of things, but he wasn’t one to judge. Though, he blinked, seeing Ace flip the coin and see what came out as a result before he offered the plush to the second year. He blinked.
“What are you doing?” he asked.
Letting you hold her.
“Why?”
Because you don’t look like you’ve hugged a plush before.
Azul stared at the notepad, not knowing whether to be offended or confused by such a claim. He didn't know Ace could be so blunt. Although, maybe he meant it well. “...Right.” he muttered, still looking at the plush of the Sea Witch. He sighed, reaching a hand and grabbing the plush, sitting down next to the redhead. Gently, he placed his arms around the item, resting his chin on the top of its head. It was so… so soft. Azul blinked. He didn’t realize how soft plushes could truly be. His face softened.
“How soft…” he whispered. His eyes trailed off, seeing the content in the boy’s eye. He looked visibly bright.
“Crabbyyyyyyy!” Azul watched Floyd run to Ace with a pout “Tell Jade to stop with the mushroom facts already!”
“Now, now, Floyd. I would’ve hoped you would’ve listened to me at least.” Jade sighed sadly. Ace blinked, surprised, but then he smiled, hugging Floyd. The other’s face brightened.
“Hehehe~! Crabby’s feeling nice, huh?” he beamed, lifting up the redhead “Let’s go have fun!”
“Don’t take him all for yourself.” Jade chuckled, following them.
“Wait- The plush-” Azul stammered, watching their retreating figures leave, heading to the rooms. The housewarden blinked, looking down at the plush in his arms. His gaze drifted, looking to see if anyone was looking. When he confirmed everyone was busy, and that no one was looking at him, he buried his face on the soft fabric.
‘So soft…’