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[unlivinglegend]

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Early morning on 4/21, before sunrise

[leggierissimo]

[Just like with Shoka, Joshua has a running roster of birthdays, so of course he knows that Neku's has been steadily approaching. And, just like Shoka, he's sure that Neku may not even think to celebrate it. Three years stuck in a dead district probably doesn't lend well to things like that, after all.

When Neku comes home after his shift at Sparkling's bar that morning, something in his room is noticeably different. It isn't just the brand new floor lamp in the corner - there's also a table sitting pre-placed in the upright position, with a note taped to the surface in an elegant, handwritten script, simply reading 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY'.]

[unlivinglegend]

[Neku slips in his window after work, seeing the difference instantly. He reads the note, smiling softly before heading out into the house to find Joshua, still in his uniform]

[leggierissimo]

[Being unable to sleep is a blessing in that Joshua is awake all hours of the day. This time of day, the local TV stations are dark for a couple more hours, so he tends to alternate between reading and tidying up.

When Neku manages to catch him, he's in the middle of the latter, putting away the last of the clean dishes. The sound of claws on the floor catches his attention, and he turns just in time to see Neku entering the kitchen. The uniform doesn't go without notice, and he tips his head with a smile.]

Welcome back. Good night at work?

[unlivinglegend]

It was quiet. I'm sure it'll pick up over the weekend.

[He walks over... and kisses Joshua's shoulder]

Thanks.

[leggierissimo]

More than likely.

[Oh, but that's surprising. One elegantly curved eyebrow arches, and he turns just a little, to more directly face Neku.]

Oh? Whatever for? Surely you've only just walked in the door and haven't had a chance to go upstairs.

[unlivinglegend]

Hmm, sure sure. And I haven't learned to recognize your handwriting either.

[leggierissimo]

[He laughs at that!]

You've been paying attention, I see.

[His hands get dried on a towel, which is then set down on the edge of the sink while his hands slide easily into his pockets.]

I take it everything is to your satisfaction, then? I've been assured that it's very sturdy.

[unlivinglegend]

It's perfect. The new lighting is really good too. Looking forward to trying it out on my day off.

[leggierissimo]

And I look forward to seeing you put that Imagination of yours to good use.

[Josh's smile very briefly turns soft, and then he leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to Neku's forehead in an effort to keep their horns from getting tangled again.]

Happy birthday, Neku.