Page 111 of Fumiko and the Finicky Nestmate
Akira murmured, “Not really.”
Because it was true. He and Suuzu had simply grappled with issues of instinct and preference as they came up. There’d never been anything like a lesson plan. Just … life.
Jiminy spoke a little slower than usual and in simple terms. Akira appreciated the consideration.
“Avians are prone to love at first sight.”
Fumiko asked, “They can’t be persuaded?”
“Anyone can be persuaded, given the right circumstances,” Jiminy said with a laugh. “But with avians, a strong first impression can be all it takes. One look, and they know.”
She shook her head. “It’s too late for that. We already met.”
Jiminy turned to Akira. “When did you and Suuzu first meet?”
“In school. We were part of an early integration program. Suuzu was visiting my class, and he singled me out.”
Fumiko leaned forward. “Love at first sight?”
“More like roommates at first sight. We’ve been living together since I was fourteen.”
“Nestmates?” Jiminy inquired.
“Yes. Both Juuyu and Suuzu consider me a nestmate.”
“And his colony approved the choice?”
“Yes. I can even wear his colors and crest for official stuff.”
Even seated, Jiminy’s posture was as nuanced as Kimiko’s, though nearly all of his non-verbal inflections were wolvish. They helped Akira process Jiminy’s meaning. Which is how Akira could tell this detail surprised him.
But Jiminy focused on Fumiko and said, “Gifts are the ultimate classic. They’re widely considered the best way to catch an avian’s interest. Birds love to receive little presents, especially if you tell them why each gift made you think of them.”
“Little presents,” Fumiko mused. “Like what?”
“Anything will do. Items made from eggshell are traditional. Crystals are favored, especially if the color has significance. Feather motifs are common. Or imagery from a family crest. But anything with a bit of sheen or shine is sure to appeal.”
Fumiko seemed pleased. “What else?”
“Feeding an avian would count as courting behavior.”
Akira blurted, “Sharing a meal is courting?”
“More like handfeeding,” he corrected. “Also, clothing is actually really important to avians, especially the males. I think it’s an instinctual carry-over. Avians like eye-catching plumage and are fastidious to a fault. Giving a gift that an avian can wear is doubling down.”
Fumiko asked, “Is it romantic?”
“Not necessarily. But it’s personal.” Jiminy considered the matter. “If you’re looking for romantic gestures, how they touch you matters.”
“Like kissing?”
“No, actually. Which I believe is another carry-over from truest form. Birds don’t have lips, so kissing is … an acquired taste. For avians, preening is the thing. The rearranging of hair denotes trust, affection, belonging. Right, Akira?”
“R-right.” He didn’t mean to sound defensive when he said, “It’s not just Suuzu. Juuyu preens me all the time.”
“Certainly,” said Jiminy. “He considers you kin.”
Fumiko was patting at her own hair. “So it isn’t love?”
