#Haven't written in a long while sheesh

[achrams]

𝐆𝐨𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐚 𝐧𝐨𝐰~

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: Thinking this strange robotic man was weird, you decided to ignore him until he had to catch you. Literally.

𝐂𝐰: Bondage, power bottom reader, Boothill's way of cursing, oil? as cum, creampie.

Getting money is rough. Nowadays that may be the norm everywhere yet it feels like living in the middle of nowhere has made it even more difficult than originally anticipated. Moving away and going to live on your own, to create your career, had been the best choice you’d ever made..had money not become an issue.

Let’s get one thing straight, it’s not like you were poor and struggling to get by. Quite the opposite actually, you were well known and praised by the people who lived nearby. The main issue was that your choice of income was growing old. Out of fashion. Forgotten. You had to work day and night to perfect your skills, to make each show unforgettable, to leave a deep impression. All in hopes of drawing more eyes, more people and therefore more money.

Bull riding. That’s what you had been interested in ever since you were barely a lad. Seeing shows display strong, fierce and, in your opinion, fashionable cowboys had molded your interests rather firmly. No matter what your parents threw before you, those innocent eyes had locked onto one thing and one thing only. And that was rodeo work. It’s not even that your parents could be cross, you were good. Eerily so. After your first ride on a horse a few instructors had shown incredible interest as well as enthusiasm to latch onto this natural talent. Wishing to mold you into the perfect face for the industry.

Thus began the rigorous training, which you, quite frankly, enjoyed a lot as opposed to your fellow training buddies. While others your age were bossy and picky, preferring to stay home playing around, you were happier than ever when you could feel the wind comb through your hair and experience the thrill of maneuvering animals that were wilder than an old guy on crack. Each day the smiles you wore grew brighter and each ride finished got you already excited for the next one.

Soon enough you were old and experienced enough to take up bull riding. The very same thing that had sparked this everlasting interest. That might have been the one day where tears of happiness broke through the determination which had been pushing you forward. From then on you gained popularity with each show you did. Crazy core strength held you up and hands of steel kept you steady. It would have been a ‘never before seen celebrity’ story where the culture of bull riding not scarce.

That brings us to today. You stood before your mirror, gaze intense and the thrive to keep going stronger than ever. Today was the day, the day you swore you'd put on such a show for the public that it would save this sport. It might not have been your goal from the start but as of recently it might as well have been. “They'll love this for sure. I'm confident.” You said with a smirk, flashing yourself some fingerguns before fixing the personalised hat on your head.

The whole town had been bustling and squirming in their seats when you, the renowned and nearly perfect rider, had given hints about attempting something so unbelievable that it had brought in people from large cities all around. Everyone everywhere wanted to see you win. To feel the adrenaline and taste the tension in the air when you stepped foot onto the battle ground. A battle between wild strength and human determination that was familiar to the audience and personal to you.

The years of hard work, late nights on simulated bull thrashing and workouts to keep you in top shape had all come down to this singular moment. Music blared and people cheered. “This is it. I can do it.” You breathed out as you got stationed on your bull. In and out, this was it. 8 seconds of pure strength both mentally and physically. As soon as the horn blew, gates opened and you were kicked to the arena, the plan began. Some may call it stupid, some may call it a death trap but you were determined.

One hand up, tipping your hat, before you suddenly let go of your rope to stand up on the bull’s back for a few kicks. Settling down and immediately gaining back control, waving with the free hand as if this was your easiest ride yet. A last second hands free thrash from the bull and you jumped off into safety while the irritated bull was calmed down.

The crowd cheered, screamed and celebrated on your behalf. You had done it. Pulled off something that was so dangerous that not even other professionals would dare to attempt it. No one had doubted the fact you’d get nearly perfect scores, since that’s what you usually bagged but to hear the judges announce ‘103.7 points’ was mental not just to you but everyone who was watching. It made you scream of happiness, almost throwing your hat to the ground as you cheered. Adrenaline rushing through you, doubling with each smiling face you saw. For a split moment your eyes locked with a mysterious grey pair, that was focused on you with hawk-like attention, before you got guided out.

You broke the score. 103.7 out of 100 is something that not many would attempt let alone achieve. You were the legend, the myth, the most well known bull rider there was. Heart pounding as you walked through the people, managers and eager fans wanting a speck of your eyes on them. The same could be said about the grey eyes following your every move, silently, patiently. The evening had been packed with one interview after another, all desperate to hear why you had done this, how you managed it and what could people expect next.

After the medals were distributed, rewards received and most interviews had been taken care of, you sighed in relief. Eyes from all over the country were now focused on you, on the hobby you wished got more recognition. It made your heart happier than a first love ever could. Turning around you walked back towards your quarters, after all the next show must live up to the expectations people had set by now. Boots clanking with each step you took down the dry mud roads. Mind already reeling with stunts you had to perfect if you wanted to implement them into your future routines.

“Excuse me.” The words dragged you out of your thoughts, making you turn around. Half expecting a buckle bunny to flutter her eyelashes at you, instead you were face to face with a...cowboy? Well he certainly looked the part. “Yeah?” You said back, tipping your hat as a greeting while silently assessing this intriguing stranger. Seems like he wasn’t from around these parts, though he could very well fit in if he lost the whole half-robot look. Not that it was bad, just an odd ‘choice’.

“I saw ya show. Impressive.” The stranger spoke and then leaned closer to whisper, “Ya ain’t seen a man about this tall. Gold tooth and hiding his face, have ya?” The sudden interrogation made you raise an eyebrow for a moment before scanning through your memories. “I don’t think so. Why do you ask?” Your words an octave lower as the tension grew between the two of you, arms crossed over your chest while glaring at this suspicious man. He seemed to sense the distrust, hoping to keep the initial bridges intact he did some damage control despite his preferences to keep his identity a secret.

“No need to get defensive. The name’s Boothill, I’m a galaxy ranger. The guy I’m after was seen near here.” He introduced with an open arm, expecting you to shake it and work as an ally for the time being since your line of job had a lot more connections with locals, which in turn would benefit Boothill to finish his job faster. “A galaxy ranger. Yeah right.” You said back, not believing whatever this man was telling you, refusing to shake hands. He was odd, acting like a police officer while claiming to..what...travel the galaxy? A comedian would be a better fit title for him.

“I don’t know what you’re after but rid yourself of the lulus before mingling with my locals.” You said sternly and turned around on your heel to protect your peace. There was no way you would trust this person who looked like he was one tick away from opening fire. It wouldn’t do you any good to become buddy-buddy with the insane guy who claimed to ride ponies into the sunset, on a quest to find some man you’re not even sure you’d ever seen. You could hear subtle grumbling and indecisive steps behind you but when Boothill had finally decided to call out for you once more you were already on the other side of the street, nearly home. 

“Ah darn it. Tomorrow then.” Boothill said while returning to his own hotel room for the night. This mission wasn’t supposed to be this difficult but it seems like with no help from locals, which in his case was you, it was bound to draw out into a comically long trip. Hence the following week or so, this half robot has been on your tail. It was barely noticeable at first but then it grew pathetically desperate. He needed your help and fast, there was no way he could get his hands on his target otherwise. 

Day after day you avoided him like the plague itself. Pretending you were busy, talking with others, in a rush or blatantly ignoring him, yeah you used every trick in the book to prevent yourself from having to partner up with Boothill on some mission that could be mistaken as a feverdream. Who else would want to become partners with a half robot ranger that apparently has been to space? Definitely not you.

---

On one particular night where you were training late in one of the simulation rooms for bull riders, you failed to notice the intense eyes glaring at your back. It had been hours by now, sun far behind the horizon and you still hadn’t left this room, fixated on bettering your form and polishing your moves for the upcoming show. Your shirt had been long forgotten onto a nearby rack, occasionally used as a towel to wipe your sweat. The robot bull was turned on once more and you focused on your routine until suddenly you felt a thick rope swoop over your head, tightening around your arms, pinning them at your sides. A pull backwards earned a yelp from you as you were dragged to the floor and closer to the source of this ambush.

“OI FUCK OFF-” You yelled out before a certain ranger stood over you, smirking down at your helpless state with mild intrigue. “Shh shh..I just need ya to stay still.” Boothill said while helping you sit up yet not undoing the binds from around you. Snickering to himself as you seethed in your spot. Practically a steaming teapot ready to let out the worst ear bleeding screech the world would have the misfortune to hear. Who was this asshole and what right did he have to lasso you!? If you were on bad terms with him before then now it was more than set in stone…despite it being one-sided given how much Boothill seemed to fancy catching you.

“Look, you little bull, I need ya help so stop running away from me.” Boothill said, crouching down before you, the rope tight in his hand as he tugged on it ever so slightly. It made you feel more like the bull than the bull rider. Gritting your teeth as you spoke, “No. Ever heard of a rejection before?” the words sarcastic and clearly fed up with this stranger. Boothill sighed and tilted his head, “Listen I’m running outta time here you fudgehead. You either help me or I leave ya here until someone notices their famous bull rider is gone.” The threat sent shivers down your spine, making you silently reevaluate the pros and cons in this situation.

The gears turned in your head for a long while, gazing Boothill up and down a few times. Eyes rolling each time he seemed to grin or make gestures to mimic you going missing. He drove a hard bargain but it’s not like you were in an position to make deals for yourself. Better hope this task of Boothill’s was something actually worth doing. You would certainly give him a piece of your mind were he to ruin all the hard work you’d done for this town so far.

“What do I have to do with this anyways? Can’t you go deal with it alone?” You asked, putting the hatred behind for a moment to gather intel on the situation. If you were to help Boothill then it would be better if you actually knew the backstory rather than jumping in head first. “Apparently he has guards around that prevent me from getting close. Seeing as he’s a big fan of ya he’d let you in easier than I could manage on my own.” Boothill explained and reluctantly gave intel on this man he was after. It wasn’t as detailed as you would have hoped but it gave you a good sense of who was in the right here and who needed to feel the cruel hand of justice.

“So, whadda ya say? Are ya on my side or not?” He asked, grinning while his gaze roamed over your body. From the messy hair, glistening chest and binded hands. You were a nice catch that’s for sure. “Sure, but for your information I never work with people who I deem strangers.” You said back, the sass still ever present in your tone despite the two of you being a team from now on. The grin on Boothill’s face grew as soon as you said that and he leaned even closer. “Why don’t we get to know one another then.” The question was framed as an order and before you could quip back, he had placed the hat from his head to yours, tipping it down to hide your face. "Let's get to know each other reeeal good.” Boothill added with a low snicker.

“Should have known you were one of those buckle bunny wannabes afterall.” You huffed out, face slightly flushed from this intimate moment from which you had no opportunity to get out of. Being in the rodeo scene had some hidden gestures and it seems like neither of you were strangers to them. The comment earned a chuckle alongside a tug against the rope, letting you feel the slight friction burn. “I’m just getting to know ya. Just like ya wanted, no?” He grinned once more and purposefully stood up to teasingly press against the faint tent at the front of your pants. Adding pressure when you visibly tensed up at the touch, “That good?”

Boothill’s words didn’t reach your ears as you wiggled against the restraints and pressed your thighs together as best you could. “Tsk-tsk..little bull you can’t expect us to grow familiar if you do that.” He teased and pulled on the rope again, making you lean forward with a groan. Feeling the hat begin to slip from your head, “Now, that better stay on. Looks good on ya.” He said as he pressed it firm onto your head before sliding his metal hand down to tilt your head up. Seeing the flushed face for the first time. Oh boy what a sight it was. Straight out of an erotica. Brows furrowed, eyes barely open and lips parted to draw in puffs of air from the stuffy room. The scene itself made Boothill subconsciously add pressure against your growing erection, pulling out another shiver from your body.

“You play real dirty ranger.” The words barely croaked out as another wave of shivers travelled down your spine. Your eyes falling shut as you silently pushed your hips into the heavy metal foot to get some form of friction to build. “Ah..that desperate already?” Boothill mused and evilly pulled his foot away before turning around to find a spot to proceed. The middle of a training room seemed a tad too extreme for him. Tugging on the rope to get you to follow like a lamb being led to slaughter, he managed to sit on one of the leather ottoman chairs. 

Smirking up at you while patting his thigh, “Come on now, show me just how good ya can ride.” Boothill tugged you closer by the rope, watching how you tried to gracefully land onto his lap. Maybe hitting your legs a few times against the furniture but a few bruises aren’t something you weren’t used to. “Hah..you seem to be enjoying this game.” You commented while shuffling yourself comfortable on Boothill’s lap, he was metal so it wasn’t exactly easy but at least he was surprisingly warm compared to the wooden floor. “‘course I do. It’s you who’s on top of me.” He purred out and leaned in to press a light kiss to your neck.

Slowly but surely making his way up to the bottom of your jaw before nipping at the skin there, thriving when your lips let out a yelp. “Careful now, don’t want to frighten your bull here.” He said, referring to himself, then tugged you closer so he had better access to your bare chest. Making sure each surface was properly powdered with kisses, bites and licks while slowly moving against you in undulating motions. The more Boothill lathered affection to the juncture between your neck and collar, the more restless you grew. Back gradually arching before it turned into needy grinds against the hard plains beneath you. “You are such a tease..if you’re gonna kiss me do it right.” You groaned out between hot breaths.

Boothill glanced up from his comfortable nook, easily straightening up to capture your lips in a heated kiss. The rope around you momentarily forgotten as his hands caressed down your body and into your jeans. Palming the warm globes before a hand dipped lower, teasing at your entrance with light circular motions. “S-shit..how will you even-” Your question was cut off by a spontaneous bite against your shoulder. “Shh, just enjoy your ride..I’ll deal with the details.” Boothill murmured against your skin as he yanked your jeans off, letting them fall to the ground with no further attention.

The bite had made you moan lowly, resting your head against Boothill’s shoulder the best you could without fully losing the hat on your head. With natural ease your body heated up and began working against the pressure on your ass. Grinding in a figure eight motion to rub your leaking dick against Boothill’s front while also pushing back against the hand probing you open for further penetration. Each roll had you huffing out warm air, biting your lip to prevent lewd moans from slipping free.

Boothill’s free hand found the rope again and he fiercely pulled it back to pull you against him, arching perfectly against his metal body. “Good boy..” he growled and added another finger to the one your body had come accustomed to. To see your flushed face eagerly pushing down against Boothill’s hand was heaven, making him push his hand further inside to hear that wonderful gasp you tended to let out when something felt especially good.

With gradual ease your neediness grew, turning into soft whines of “Come on..just..stop teasing me..” each plea was answered with a chuckle, kiss or sudden thrust of his fingers inside you. He loved seeing you squirm with pleasure, his cute little bull rider. Sensing you were prepared enough, Boothill guided out his own dick. It wasn’t real, obviously, though that didn’t stop him from having fun. Especially when your fucked out expressions would bring him to his own climax. A hand on your lower back to keep the arch steady, he lined up his dick with your hole and then eased himself inside.

A shuddering groan left you, with the little power you had left you pushed down. Impatiently impaling yourself on Boothill’s warm dick, letting it fill you to the brim. “Mhm..that’s the good spot..” you whispered out, head straightening up from its leaned back position. Surprised to see the barely holding on look Boothill harboured, it was your turn to smirk as you showed him why you were the infamous bull rider.  He wanted a ride? You'd give him exactly that. Immediately resuming with the round grinds to get used to him filling you. Each roll of your hips somehow pulled out a small huff from Boothill.

Within a few minutes all purity was out the window, you were loudly groaning with each bounce you made on his dick. Taking him deep with a clench before letting go and undulating then repeating the motion with growing vigour. Feeling how it tapped perfectly against your prostate, nudging past it every few grinds before hitting the spot flawlessly. Gosh it was good and by the, now flushed, expression on Boothill, it felt good for him too. Making him pull you closer by the rope before grinding his own hips to buck up into you. Your bodies flush together as you worked in tandem with one another, like two pieces that fit together splendidly.

Suddenly, Boothill wrapped both his arms around your middle before thrusting up inside you with frantic movements. “Oh fudge..hang on little bull..” he groaned and captured your lips in another kiss while pounding into you with growing power. His hands pulling you down against him with each movement for additional friction as he felt the edge so close now. Just a little bit more. With a gruff rumble he stilled and pressed his hips flush with your ass.

The sudden action made you clench up, back arching wildly while he filled you with none other than a liquid that felt and looked like oil yet didn’t have the smell. “Oh my..oh, fuuckk..” You whimpered out while riding through Boothill’s climax to reach your own, quickly rubbing yourself against his hard torso before letting go with a whine. Splurting your cum to cover the little crevices of his stomach and abdomen. For a moment you two sit there in each other's arms, breathing and catching up with the beating heats that seemed to echo throughout the room.

“You definitely deserve the praise. That one one flipping good ride.” Boothill finally sighed out and busied himself with unbinding your arms. Fingers gently caressing the slight irritation the constant friction had left on your skin. “Yeah..haven’t had a good ‘bull’ in a while.” You chuckled and stretched your arms up, then rested them on Boothill’s shoulders for support. Slowly pulling yourself off his lap, sighing breathily when the drag of his dick stimulated your insides, it squelched out with a slight pop followed by a dribble of his release, sticky and eager to show face.

“Hm, looks like you enjoyed it as much as I did.” You pointed out, dragging a finger through the mess between your thighs, feeling it awkwardly drip from your ass and then holding it out for Boothill to see. Smirking when he actually got embarrassed and looked away, with a step closer you pressed your hand against his abdomen. Mixing your own cum with his, “Seems like we really did get to know one another.” The words whispered and slow as you leaned closer to press a kiss to his ear. Patting his messy tummy as a teasing gesture.

Smiling to yourself as you straightened up, joints popping while you walked around to clothe yourself back up. The nightly training session could be concluded as done, now to get home, into a nice warm shower before bed. Oh yeah, tomorrow you and Boothill will begin working together. So there’s that to look forward to. “Up up ranger. You stay here and I might have to report you as the missing one instead.” You teased with a wink and watched how he scrambled up, fixed appearance and looked for his hat before seeing you wear it with a smile, your own hat hugged to your chest.

“Catch me if you can.” You mouthed before jogging out of the training room, chuckling when Boothill followed with a laugh of his own. “You’re on little bull. I'll catch you again.”

[azlrse]

➳ bittersweet act (a mammon x gn!human!reader oneshot)

cw: angst (w/ a bit of fluff), implied slut-shaming (the use of the w word), ooc characters (?), replaced!mc & student council president!mc au.

a/n: finally!! after months of writing block, I am back at writing woohoo!! this piece of mine is stuck within the drafts for months and this is badly written since I haven't write something for so long omlll 😭✋

"Hey demon," a voice called for Mammon from above. "Can you deliver these important papers to president (m/c)? I got my hands full lately and I might be in delay if I gave them the project proposal and the financial plans super late this afternoon." David came down from the ladder of the tall bookshelf and handed the second born demon two heavy folders that contains such papers that is considered as confidential. "Hey! Don't call me 'demon' and the name's Mammon! Ya hear me? I have a name!" The secretary of the human student council just rolled his eyes sarcastically. "Yeah yeah, whatever 'demon'. Just do the job and go, you're gonna give me a headache here sheesh." He replied as he uses two fingers to hold the bridge of his nose in annoyance as he walks away to sort out some documents within the office.

And it looks like not only (m/c) didn't like him, aside from his brothers who received dirty and disappointing looks from the humans they have surrounded themselves. Knowing that these exchanged students from RAD treated their president so poorly that they dug their own grave to begin with. While getting lost into his thoughts, Mammon had a hard time opening the door of the office entrance since both of his hands are occupied by the huge folders, forgetting that he's a demon to begin with and uses his magic to open the door at ease.

The long walk towards your office is grueling for the prince of greed as he felt eyes surrounding him within the halls of the school. Every whisper, every snicker and every glance of the humans he came across felt like every inch of his dignity has stripped away from his body. Not even his eyes met theirs and keeping it glued straight forwardly.

"Is this one of the demons that's an exchange student here? I thought demons are hideous to look at."

"I heard that this demon ditched our president just to be with the side piece of a human, disgusting."

"If we look at him and his co-exchange students, we might be cursed or given bad luck to our studies." "Yeah, I don't want that either"

"Do you know that one exchange student here is a whore?" "No way hahahaha"

The avatar of greed felt like his self-esteem has crumbled everytime he heard those whispers from the students, feeling like he's on your shoes when you were still a student back at RAD, being replaced at home and purposely being ignored and relentlessly bullied to the oblivion to the point that you just wanna go home to the human world. For once, Mammon felt anger, especially to that one whisper that's targeted to his dear younger brother but on the other hand, he felt sadness and upset at the same time. He knows that Mammon truly deserved to be on your shoes for once, being helpless in a world full of demons.

His thoughts are interrupted once again when he saw the sign that indicates your office. Mammon felt really nervous, even if he's seen you face to face multiple occasions in his time as an exchange student. He stood by your office door, folders by both hands as he hesitantly knocks your office door.

No answer.

He knocked once again and silence surrounded him. "Pres (m/c)?" He called out. "I got the papers here, mind if I come in and help you sort these papers out?" Still, there is no answer. Questionably, he tried twisting the knob and to his shock, it's unlocked. Mammon cautiously went inside of the air conditioned room and went to look for you. "(m/c)?" He called for you again, placing the documents on the coffee table that's just beside the sofa and saw you, passed out on the sofa, sleeping peacefully. The place is dark to begin with, only a shimmer of light coming from your desk as messy papers and important files are scattered around the table. He reminds you of his overworked brother back in the Devildom as he sighs contentedly while looking at you in awe.

Your sleeping face reminds him to the time where the two of you cuddled after dinner and doing your assignments (while nagging him to finish his). He still remembered those times where you comforted him in his sleep whenever he had nightmares and reassured him that you are not gonna die or loosing his beloved siblings. He misses those times if he's honest. Reminiscing the times that you're just the sweetest and most caring human he has met in his entire life and felt a twinge of guilt as he remembered him pushing you away for another human he caught an eye on. Your cries, your wails of pain and pleas of help were ignored by him and his brothers just to appease another human who has disdain for you.

Mammon knows that he and his brother's does not deserve such forgiveness but he believes that one day, you'll acknowledge their efforts and welcoming them back into your cold and estranged heart.

He moves a stray hair on your face just to take a look on you for the last time before he leaves, admiring your beauty since the first time he saw you as an exchange student in RAD, remembering your confused and scared expression when you first arrived at the Devildom. Mammon placed a small kiss on your forehead and whispers that he still loves you (he didn't confessed his feelings to you sooner, sadly), implying that his romantic feelings for you will never change, even if you refuse to acknowledge his presence outside of school purposes. With a final, solemn look on his face, he closed the door of your office and walks back towards the students council room to do some paper work once again, meeting up with Levi and Asmo along the way whole ranting about their experiences as an exchange student in the human world.

Little did Mammon knew, you are awake the entire time. Getting up from your sleeping position and feeling the ache from your neck from a lack of support you get from a pillow, you placed a hand on your forehead and smiled sadly from this bittersweet act from the demon you once had a huge crush on.

You may not know it but Mammon is willing to wait for you to be his once again.

Do not republish, edit, or repost to other websites.

Reblogs and likes are appreciated! 💕

[idonotbitemythumbatyou]

Writer Interview Tag

Thank you for the tag @wisteria-lodge!

How many works do you have on ao3?

29

What's your total AO3 word count?

415,216

Your top 5 stories by kudos?

The Regular - Arcane, Sevika/Reader. With ~ 1900 kudos. Sheesh. Not surprising because Arcane is a huge new fandom, and it was the second Sevika/Reader ever posted. But also the people are right, I love this fic.

Her Deady Hands - Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Randvi PoV Eivor/Randvi. With ~ 800 kudos. I’m sorry I’ll never finish it.

Still Mine - another Eivor/Randvi. With ~ 650 kudos

Bites - Star Trek DS9, Garak/Bashir. With ~ 250 kudos. I’m super happy one of my DS9 fics made it! I’m relatively new and it’s a smallish tight-knit fandom. Surprised it was this one though! (You guys should read Prologue!)

In an Effort to (help) Save the World - Pacific Rim, Newt/Hermann. With ~240 kudos. My first long fic. My first to break 100k words. I’m still very proud of this one.

Do you respond to comments?

Yes! Always! I love connecting with other people in the fandom and comments are the most fun way to do so! Sometimes it takes a while though because I want to reply with the same level of care the comments were given.

What's the fic you've written with the angstiest ending?

On the Subject of Alice - because it’s about Newt being Kaiju possessed, and it ends with Newt still being Kaiju possessed. Heaven for the Soulless will steal this crown once it’s done.

What's the fic you've written with the happiest ending?

Definitely Effort. But it’s a rough ride to get there, and bittersweet. The Seven Year Prologue will probably take this one too.

Do you write crossovers?

Nah.

Have you ever received hate on a fic?

No thank goodness but I have had some impolite comments, as well as some that were unintentionally hurtful (and the people were incredibly kind when I pointed it out) and some that are a bit entitled (I just ignore those).

OH I did once get a series of “you should take this off the ship tag if they’re not together” comments which was very confusing because the characters in question were regularly having sex and in love with each other. I think one of two things happened: 1: they stopped reading after chapter one wherein a highly unreliable narrator is like “nah I don’t think they’re fucking.” Or 2: They didn’t think it “counted” because the characters wouldn’t admit they were in a relationship and the married one was never going to leave his wife. Why am I dancing around this? It was Tomgreg. It was fucking Tomgreg.

Do you write smut?

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* yes *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not that I know of.

Have you ever had a fic translated?

Unfortunately my oldest, worst characterized fic is now also available in Russian.

Have you ever co-written a fic before?

No, but I have had close writing relationships with @avelera and @xpityx. I credit them both with vastly improving my writing skills.

What's a wip that you want to finish but don't think you ever will?

The Great Work. I feel guilty because I was literally the only person writing that ship in English. But I just can’t. I started writing it in a different lifetime.

What are your writing strengths?

In-character, plot propelling dialogue. And F/F smut.

What are your writing weaknesses?

Grammar. And executive dysfunction baybeeee. Oh and M/M smut.

What are your thoughts on writing dialogue in other languages in a fic?

I try to do my research but mostly I just write it in English and explain that they’re speaking in a different language now. Especially now that I’m dealing with alien languages. I’ll put in an alien word or two but it’s not consistent to write all the alien language in English and then whip out the French, you know?

What's a fandom/ship you haven't written for yet but want to?

I have a Succession/Severance crossover in my heart that I’ll never write.

I’m tagging @maeselc @sapphosewrites @dreamerdrop and @onwhatcaptain

[kirchefuchs]

HI VRO I MISSED YOYITITJIT

I know that this is really awkward bc I haven't sent anything here in a while (looking around your ask box rn and sHeesh it is empty–) but I fr have something to ask of thee

doth thou know about the stuff going on in the west philippine sea

bc I feel like not a lot of people know about it yet and honestly as someone who lives there it is really scary to think that there could be a chance of a war sparking up

personally, it's really difficult for me to put what I know into words, but if you could (and if you want to), pls answer this ask and maybe add your own thing to it if you want, people need to know what China is doing to our territory

(have I also said how much I miss you /silly)

—🅰️non (it's been so long since I've written that woag) || Jun. 29 2024

Hiiiii!! It has been a while, I missed you too!

As for knowledge of what's going on in the Philippines, I didn't know till I saw you reblog a post about it. It sounds awful and I'm really truly hoping for the best for you. This definitely seems like something that awareness should be raised for. I'm sorry you have to worry about this kind of thing. I'm sorry anyone would have to worry about these kinds of things honestly. I really hope things get better for your country and that China leaves you well enough alone, you should be able to just enjoy your life, your interests, and your friends without worrying about your country being invaded.

Best of wishes my dear 🅰️non <3

[snowcapmt]

Waking nightmare: Chapter 1

Written and illustrated by SnowcapMt and @derpu-doodles

Edit: Removed mention of Paya, changes in plot ideas no longer make her relevant

“I think he’s over here!” Came the sailor’s voice.

“I see him.” The Old man grunted.

“You’d better explain this.” He said, getting closer.

The Cook could feel his one eye burning through his skin with disappointment. The other heroes filed in. The Old man, The Sailor, the Traveller, The Captain, The Chosen, The Smith, and finally, the Veteran. A team of eight heroes in total, including himself.

“Don’t laugh.” He said. “I got caught by bokoblins…”

“HOW?!” The Captain circled him, breaking into a cackle as The Smith just sighed and shook his head at all this.

He let out a miserable groan and swatted at the Captain, but he had been hung like this for a while already and was probably losing a couple of his only leftover braincells as a result.

The Captain backed up, to Wild’s relief. That relief didn’t last very long as the Veteran stood in front of him and faced him.

Him, the cook, the ‘Hero of the Wild’, who made probably the biggest rookie mistake in front of the Veteran, of all people. Oh Hylia, just choke him now please.

The Veteran looked Wild over with an expression reminiscent of disappointment before heaving a sigh and releasing him from the trap in a not-so-gentle manner. The Smithy winced slightly as Wild hit the ground with a hard thump and a crack that didn’t sound all that natural. Ow.

He sat himself up and rubbed the top of his head, which so gracefully slammed against the ground.

“Sheesh, you couldn’t have been easier with me, could you?”

The Old man scoffed. “You let yourself get trapped by bokoblins, but you expect to be given things ‘’easy’?”

“I was hanging upside down for ages! That’s enough punishment!” The Cook protested.

The Veteran cut in. “What would have happened if you died instead?!”

The Traveller shared a glance with the Sailor, earning a shrug from the latter. Vet wasn't usually one to burst out like that...

...Except when one of them had gotten seriously injured, or done something reckless.

Maybe he cared more than he let on?

The Cook, however, merely let out a huff. “I’ve died before. Nothin’ I can’t’ handle. I fulfilled my purpose as a hero already.”

The Veteran stared at him like he'd grown two heads. "Are you crazy!?" he hissed. "Just because you've fulfilled your purpose already or died before doesn't mean it's fine to die now!"

Wild only let out a tired breath and gave the veteran an empty look. “I’ve got nothing left to lose if I do. There’s not a lot of people who would miss me, and the people who would are plenty strong enough to get over it.”

The cook turned away as the Sailor let out a wail in protest. The Veteran didn't seem so keen on letting Wild have the last word, however, quickly following and grabbing his arm. "That's not a good reason to just accept dying like that," he snarled, despite being a complete hypocrite

Wild merely tipped his head. ”Why? If the purpose of living is to leave the world a better place, then haven’t I already done so?”

"In case you haven't noticed, dumbass, we're still working on that. Hylia didn't throw us all together for nothing," he replied venomously.

“I don’t care what Hylia wants!” The cook raised his voice “Hylia betrayed us! My princess needed her, and she was silent!” he spat.

The Chosen hero winced harshly and clenched his teeth, but decided to drop his gaze and save it for later rather than add to the fire.

The Vet cut in. "Hylia doesn't give a damn about any of us. You said the purpose of living was to leave the world a better place, right? Then it'd be selfish to die over something so stupid when centuries of people will suffer for it."

Wild snapped. “Nobody will suffer from my death! There’s eight of us, who cares if one dies?!”

"Have you not noticed how much shit we've been through!?" Vet spat. "If whatever this threat is truly needs more than one hero, then I'm PRETTY FUCKIN' SURE WE NEED ALL OF US!!"

The Cook opened his mouth to yell an insult, but was quickly silenced as the Old Man stood in his way with a harsh glare. No existential questions, please. The Cook went from fiery to meek immediately, looking at his feet, shifting them a little within the insides of his boots…

The Veteran scoffed and turned on his heel, raking a hand through his hair and muttering something under his breath.

...

"...So, uh..." the Traveller began in an attempt to break the heavy silence. "Where were we supposed to be headed, again...?

“Kakariko village.” The Old man hummed.

Kakariko village.” The Old man hummed.

Wild sighed. He had been quite curious as to how such a familiar location looked in this era… but he still felt a sharp twinge of bitterness from the argument prior, hanging to the back of the group.

He fell to the back of the group, still keeping up, but avoiding everyone’s gaze.

Vet reluctantly strode by the Old Man's side, wishing to avoid conversation as much as possible. At most, the Old Man would probably discuss plans or something — that, he could handle.

Quietly, they shuffled into the village and settled for the night. After making dinner, The Cook was the first to collapse into bed.

…However, he was the last to wake up the following morning, needing The Sailor to prod him out of bed.

"Heeeyyy, get up," the Sailor said quietly, shaking Wild by the shoulder.

He groaned. “I don’t wannaaaaaa~”

Sailor frowned. "I know yesterday was really tiring, but you gotta. We're s'post'a clear the place of monsters and restock today, 'member?"

The cook popped one eye open and gazed at the Sailor for a few moments before reaching up and pinching his cheek playfully. “Why’re you so mature?”

The Sailor snickered and let out a little "hey!!" before skittering over to where the others were making plans and assigning tasks.

Wild shuffled himself over himself, not so patiently awaiting his turn.

“Traveler, go scout. Veteran, make sure he doesn’t get lost.” The Old man ordered. “Cook, clean up after Epona.”

He quietly shuffled over and did his job, reluctance in every step.

So this is how they saw him now? After one mess up, he was now stuck cleaning horse shit?

…

As the Traveler and Veteran were out scouting, a crowd could be seen in the distance.

Vet squinted and put a hand over his eyes As One Does. "The hell's that about...?" he muttered to himself.

"How 'bout we check it out?" Traveller chirped, heading toward the crowd without waiting for an answer. Vet stared after him in visible annoyance, before following anyway.

…It didn’t take longer for things to become apparent, though. Monsters headed straight toward the village.

Vet muttered a couple foreign curses before turning to the Traveller. "Go get the others."

"Are you sure?" Traveller replied slowly. "I mean... y'know..."

His only response was a firm gaze as Veteran unsheathed his blade. With a sigh, the Traveller turned and ran back to the village.

The others raced over as soon as they could, especially once they realized that the Veteran was the one left defending. The Old man cast a glance his way as he raced in. “Are you alright?”

"'M fine," Vet muttered, wiping blood from the corner of his mouth. "Let's just take these guys out."

“Right.” The Old man said after a moment

The Veteran chose to ignore this and rushed back into battle, dual wielding a fire rod with his sword. Wild joined in momentarily, as did the rest of the chain, beating back the monsters and protecting the village.

During the thick of battle, Legend’s ears began to ring, as a tickly sensation began to rise in his throat.

He grimaced, quick to finish off the Lizalfos he was fighting before slinking off.

"…Stupid," he muttered before leaning against a tree and clutching his chest. Before he could stop it, he began hacking up petal after petal.

After what felt like an eternity, the coughing fit began to subside. He quietly brushed the blood from his lips and opted to stay there just a little longer.

[luckyshotwrites]

💖 ✅️/🛒 those last two seemed kind of similar, so you can do both, or one, whichever you prefer :)

Hey hey! Got me some questions from this, eh?

✅ What's something that appears in your fics over and over and over again, even if you don't mean to?

MY AGGRAVATING HABIT OF USING BUT. Elaboration: While typing my rough drafts I put 'but' in constantly. I need to hook up a shock keyboard for that word, sheesh. (I could only think of this at the time).

💖 What made you start writing?

Oh? Is this backstory time for me? XD Well, a long time ago when I was 3 or 4, I had an amazing dream about a girl with cool powers. When I woke up from it I felt like I was born for the first time? I told my mom all about it, and from then on I started trying to draw my dreams, I have dreams kinda like episodes to a show, but once I got older, 4th grade or so, I started writing. I've always written for myself, ideas and such, plus a main story I adore with all my heart. Yet, I've never properly learned to write. I've been studying now, and reading some of the amazing works on here, yours for example, and IF YOU GUYS WANT A LIST OF THE OTHERS IM TALKING ABOUT, I’LL SLAP ONE DOWN. I think it's been helping me improve. I'll get to a bigger level of spice one day, promise!

(I also want to read so many others from people here but with my current work and workout schedule and how long it takes me to write chapters for widfali, I cannot. ;^;)

🛒 What are some common things you incorporate in your fics? Themes, feels, scenes, imagery, etc.

This is the question that took me a while to figure out how to answer, so sorry in advance if it wasn't what it meant!

Overall, at least from all the short stories I've written here, I'd say, I commonly write with emotions/feelings surrounding dread, fear, hopelessness, and or desire. I use different places/characters to demonstrate a variety of scewd differences between these lines.

On the surface of Widfali there's a soft, silliness at times given the games they play. However, there's also the underlying theme that Lynette is on the verge of drowning, because of the how little she knows about everything. There's too much unknown for her to be able to let go and trust the waters. (Unfortunately, as Widfali is a slow burn, I haven't got to any of the parts that'll carry a lot of impact, besides the latest chapter and the obsession chapters, so I cant explain more).

I hope that answers them! AND THANKS FOR THE QUESTIONS, COOL CAT! HAVE A BOMBA DAY!

[kozu-chan]

synopsis: keeping up with a society that expects you to be perfect is exhausting in every way possible. you're lucky enough to have found someone who relates to navigate this brutal world with.

content warnings: fem! reader, cursing, insults, bullying if you squint, mentions of insecurity, a bit of fighting, mentions of mental health, and sakusa might be ooc but that's just to make the arguments a little more dramatic.

sour masterlist

growing up, you were a perfectionist. although this wasn't necessarily your fault, was it? at the young age of four, your parents discovered that you were, and maybe still are, gifted with talent for music. this led to years of guitar, piano, violin, flute, singing, and even harp lessons. throughout the years, you went through many concerts and hours upon hours of practicing your various instruments. this led you to attend the infamous itachiyama academy in high school and that was only the beginning of your troubles.

as a perfectionist, you dedicate yourself not only to your music, but to your studies as well. sadly, even you can't manage to balance school, music, sleep, and a social life and one of those things have to give due to your busy schedule, so you sacrifice your social life. sometimes you think that this was the wrong move because that just makes high school practically a living hell for you. that is, until about a week ago.

last week, you had a regular morning. you walk through the halls of your school and people do their best to avoid you, to not get in your way. however, that doesn't stop them from gossiping about you. "wow look at l/n. little miss perfect." "i dare you to talk to her!" "she's such an ice cold perfectionist." "i could never be friends with her. she's too serious." "does this bitch even have a life?" you ignore the comments as you make your way to your first class. sometimes you just want to yell at them to stop talking about you. to tell them how much it hurts you and how being such a perfectionist is exhausting. to let them know that their comments only add to how lowly you think of yourself. that you wish that you had even one friend because you feel so alone.

after school, you spend hours in the music room practicing a song you were thinking of performing, something self-written as a way of releasing your emotions. and once you think your practice is sufficient, you curl up against the wall and cry.

once your crying session is done, you get up and walk back to your dorm. on the way back, you see someone in the gym do an insane serve that slams down that just barely makes it in. you hear a groan of frustration followed by the oh so familiar sound of breath getting shaky due to crying. your gaze follows the sound to see the figure on the floor crying and your breath gets caught in your throat when you realize it's not just any player, but one of the top three aces in japan, sakusa kiyoomi.

"sakusa-san?" sakusa looks at you with what looks like a bit of fear but anger replaces his expression before you could confirm your suspicions. "what the fuck are you doing here? this is a private practice." his tone is cold, firm, and piercing. you could feel a chill run down your spine, but you ignore the feeling because other people, especially your parents, have been on the receiving end on your own tone that sounds just as menacing. the only indicator of crying being the red, slightly watery eyes that you can't help but sympathize with. "what are you staring at?" you snap out of your thoughts to respond to him. "i saw you on my way back to my room. i just happened to see you crying and i-"

sakusa sighs again in frustration. "and you what? just shut up and leave me alone!" "i just know what it's like, okay? you really think that you're the only one who's tired of not feeling good enough? the only one who's cried because you just want to get better but you don't see any improvement no matter how much you practice?" your voice is loud and yet on the verge of tears. you glace at sakusa, who now looks angrier but you don't care. "so sue me if i come off as a ice cold bitch who doesn't talk to anyone because i do anything and everything i can to be perfect even if i always fall short and sue me for sympathizing with you."

the room grows quiet, save for the sounds of your shaky breathing as you try your best to calm down before you actually start breaking down in front of him. it takes another few seconds before sakusa stands up and walks up to you. "l/n, right? yeah well you don't know me and you should just get out of my sight. you shouldn't be trying to get someone to stop crying if you're just going to cry yourself. just relax more." relax more? "that's rich coming from you." you're no longer crying and sakusa stops in his tracks.

"you're telling me to relax more when you don't seem to have any chill... ever. and let's not forget that your crying was what brought into the gym in the first place." you take a deep breath to calm yourself. "so... the gym is like your safe space, right?" sakusa doesn't answer, clearly exasperated and silently begging you to leave. "c'mon, sakusa-san! you can tell me!" you smile a little when he opens his mouth to talk, only to be disappointed by his response. "god, you're such an annoying bitch. go find someone else to bother!" you're disappointed but you're also persistent. after all, you are the one that figures out and teaches all the schoolwork you struggle with to yourself. "if it makes you feel better..." you sigh quietly and contemplate whether or not it was a good idea to expose yourself this much to someone you just started talking to. "if it makes you feel better, my room and the music rooms are my safe spaces." "it really doesn't. if anything, it just makes me feel even more pathetic!" a small smirk graces your features as you realize that you got him. "so this is your safe space? i didn't hear a denial!" sakusa rolls his eyes. "would you shut up already" "not until you admit it." he glares at you and you just look him dead in the eye, causing him to break (probably so you would shut up as he thinks you'll do if he admits it). "fine... the gym is my safe space... that you're encroaching on." you back away slightly because he was right. and you know that you would also be pissed as fuck if someone encroached on your safe space, especially while you were crying. "i'm sorry, i just wanted to help. but, maybe we could be each other's safe spaces?"

you mentally sigh in relief as sakusa looks just the slightest bit more comfortable upon hearing that. "i mean, you know what it's like so... i guess i wouldn't be opposed to that." the two of you give each other a small smile as you sit down a good length away from him. "god, it's brutal out here, huh?" sakusa lets out a small laugh and agrees.

"sakusa, are you really gonna go pro like they say you are?" sakusa looks at you for a second and nods. you even notice his eyes lighting up a little. "yeah, that's what i want. it's what i've wanted for as long as i could remember. i wouldn't work so hard for it and get so dirty if it wasn't my dream... what about you? are you going to become a musician?" now it's your turn to pause. you freeze up. it's been so long since someone's asked you what you wanted. "i... honestly? i don't know what i want anymore. it's been so long since i've been asked what i wanted. it's been so long since someone's seen me outside of the "little miss perfect" that everyone else sees... i don't know." you take a moment to recollect your thoughts. "i just hate the thought of disappointing people that i think i've lost myself in the process. i've been pursuing music for so long that it's familiar, it's instinct, and i can't see myself doing anything else because i haven't done anything else..." your voice gets quieter as you speak. this is the first time you've ever gotten a chance to voice out your thoughts to someone and your own revelations shock you.

"yeah, i think i'm getting there too. losing myself to satisfy everyone while trying to stay true to myself. after all, who am i if not exploited?" it takes a minute to digest the words that were so simple and yet so powerful, the six words that could be used to summarize your entire life. "it sucks, doesn't it? like all i did was try my best, and this is the kind of thanks i get? annoyance and isolation? awards and acknowledges of achievement but at what cost? my social life? my mental health? ... my identity?" sakusa looks like he's going to say something but you shoot him a look and his mouth closes to let you continue. "it's literally so fucking stupid! there's literally no actual reward for me anymore, nothing satisfying. it's all worthless - meaningless, even. sometimes i wish i could disappear..."

a small breath is sucked up and you turn to sakusa. "sorry that was heavy. i've just never had someone to talk to about this. at least not properly."

"i get it. i haven't really had a lot of people to talk to either. at least not that honestly. i'm glad we have each other now, because you were right. it is brutal out here and it's good that we can stick together now."

after that, no one really bothered you anymore and it was all thanks to your new friend and confidant.

a/n: sheesh this is one of the longest things i've written. i really hope you like it and i'm really sorry that i suck at endings!!

[snarkwrites]

03 | upside down ; steve harrington

NOTES:

So, uh.. did I mention this is not even remotely close to a slow burn? Because surprise it's not. I wanted it to be one so so so bad too. But it'll be okay, I'll live. Maybe next time, lmaooo. Anyway, as I said in the notes on chapter 2, parts one, two, this one and maaaybe four, I haven't written it just yet so Idk how it'll go tbh, are potentially set BEFORE the series starts.

Summary:

She moves back to Hawkins and manages to turn his life completely upside down. In the best of ways.

But how will everything play out between them? Also, can they handle all the weirdness ahead? We shall see.

Warnings:

LOOSE CANON COMPLIANCE AT BEST, TOTAL DEVIATION AT WORST - this is just an up front catch all because sometimes, things happen that I don’t particularly care for (the senseless death of Barb, anybody?) and if you’re one of those canon only people, this is here to warn you that this is not the fic for you. LANGUAGE, OCCASIONAL GORE, MONSTERS / FANTASY ELEMENTS, TEENAGE DRAMA AND SHENANIGANS - Obviously, teenagers are going to do stuff. They’re at that point in their life where not every decision they make is the best one. So if you’d rather skip over this kind of thing (teen drinking, fighting, etc) then yeah.. you’ve been warned. THIS IS NOT A SLOW BURN, I REPEAT NOT SLOW AT ALL / EVENTUAL FILTHY GOOD NESS - because lets be real.. we’re all wondering when we’re gonna drop the plot and get to the good stuff. When this chapter occurs, I will flair it with an M. In the meantime, if you’re not into slow burn or mutual pining, then you’re probably not going to care about this.

Other Parts

[ SOUNDTRACK | PART ONE | PART TWO]

Other Stuff

[ FAQ - TAG LIST DOC ]

Tagging:

There’s nobody on my list yet but… If you wanna be tagged for this, tell me pls. It will make me overjoyed.

Throwing out a no pressure tag to @RAMPAGEWRITING​ and @TWISTNET​ as well as @CHASINGEVERYBREAKINGWAVE​ just because. No pressure though bbies!

THREE.

“You can’t be serious. Her mother was the town tramp. And from what I’ve seen of her and the way she dresses, she’s on the fast track to follow in those footsteps.” Carol’s statement and her voice annoyed Steve.

He rolled his eyes. Shrugging.

“I’m serious. Did you think I was asking your permission?” Steve raised a brow at Carol and laughed. “Because if you did, you were wrong. I do what I want.”

Carol grimaced and grumbled that she was absolutely not going to be nice to Jennifer Brown just because Steve wanted to put his dick inside her.

Tommy smirked, leaning in while Carol was on her little tangent to mutter into his ear, “Lucky bastard.”

Steve chuckled, nodding in agreement with Tommy.

Brown eyes scanned the crowd, searching for any sign of Jennie. He spotted her wandering the midway, one of those giant cotton candy sticks in her hand, sandwiched between Barb and Nancy, the three of them laughing. All he could do was stare at her. Smile to himself at the way she threw her head back to laugh. Follow the sway of her hips like his eyes had magnets attached.

Carol spotted her too and pretended to gag. “Does she not have a grasp of the concept of clothing, Steve?”

“Carol, do you ever stop and think that maybe everyone doesn’t want your crappy opinion?” Steve quipped, rolling his eyes at her. Tommy mouthed an apology.

Steve shrugged it off, telling them he’d meet up with them later if he felt like it and didn’t forget. Then he wandered over, falling into line behind Jennie. Wrapping his arms around her waist and snickering when she whirled around, eyes full of fire and ready to explode because she thought it was some random playing grab ass.

Steve raised his hands, chuckling. Biting his lip as he gazed down at her and the way she lazily swatted at his chest. “Easy, Jennie. It’s just me.”

“You can’t just do that! I thought you were that asshole who wouldn’t leave us alone over by the spinning tea cups.” Jennie took a sip of her drink, blowing bubbles into the straw. She held it up to Steve and he took it, taking a sip or two. “Are we still on for tonight?”

She nodded, smiling up at him. “Nancy, Barb and I just wanted to come together early. A girl thing.” she explained.

Steve wanted to swear to himself when he heard Tommy clear his throat from nearby. With Carol in tow, of course. Tommy nodded to Jennie and smirked at Steve as he gave Jennie a playful wink. “Aren’t you gonna introduce your girl to your best friend, man? He has no manners. My name is Tommy.”

Carol rolled her eyes and grumbled about Tommy being a flirt right in front of her and as per usual, her complaints went in one ear and right out the other.

Jennie eyed Tommy with a raised brow, shaking her head. Glancing at Steve who chuckled. “She knows who you are, dumbass. She lived here for a while, remember?”

Carol was giving Jennie a frosty glare. From beside Jennie, Nancy and Barb nudged each other, whispering, watching the two.

“I know I haven’t forgotten her.” Carol spoke up.

“Oh, I haven’t forgotten you either.” Jennie responded, tensing up. Folding her arms over her chest as she glanced at Carol with thinly veiled disinterest.

“Okay, no fights. Carol, come on.” Tommy spoke up, letting his gaze linger on Jennie just long enough that Steve tensed a little, gave him an annoyed look and shoved tightly clenched fists into the pockets of his jeans.

Tommy and Carol wandered off and Steve chuckled. Pulling his hand out of his pocket, dragging it through his hair. “I’ll come pick you up at 8.”

He stepped closer, curious as to whether she’d be open to him kissing her in front of her friends. Because things were kind of shaky. They really hadn’t gotten to talk about last night quite yet.

Jennie surprised him because she stepped closer too. Hooking her fingers in the belt loops of his jeans. Closing the distance between them when she did so. He chuckled. Leaning down a little, his arms slipping around her as his crashed his mouth against her mouth. Grinning into the kiss as the taste of her watermelon shaved ice filled his mouth. He deepened the kiss and as it pulled away so they could both catch their breath, he joked with Nancy and Barb, “Don’t let her get into too much trouble, yeah?”

“Oh haha sir. If memory serves, you got involved in just as much as me when we were kids.” Jennie teased, raising up on her feet to fluff his hair and turn up the collar of his polo shirt. She pouted as she stepped away and as she walked off with Nancy and Barbara, Steve leaned against the wooden post nearby and watched her walking. Fanning himself and smiling like an idiot.

Once he knew no one was watching, he jumped up and down, pumping his fist in the air in victory.

XXX

“Shit, shit.” I stomped my foot, blowing at a curl that refused to go where I wanted it to go. Frowning at the offending strands of hair, I swatted them out of my eyes. From my closet, Nancy called out, “Hey? Think I can borrow this white sundress?”

“Yeah! Go for it.” I called out to her as I tried to get into a steady position to apply my mascara. Nancy stepped out of my closet, holding the dress up to her in the mirror. I smiled and spoke up, “Carol’s still the uptight killjoy, I see.”

“Carol Perkins is a bitch.”

I pretended to be shocked when Nancy said it and Nancy shrugged, blushing a little as she laughed. “It’s the truth though!”

“I think her entire reason for walking over earlier today was just to be rude.”

“Or to be weird and creepy about Steve. She had this huge crush on him last year, I think? Anyway, Steve turned her down from what I heard and that’s why she went for Tommy instead.” Nancy picked up a lipstick from her makeup bag, lightly bumping against me and laughing when I did it back.

“Barb’s meeting us after the movie, right?”

“Mhm. She said Logan was taking her to one of those fancy restaurants over in Rollins before though. Their anniversary.” Nancy smiled and laughed softly. “They’re so cute, I swear.”

“I know. It’s so sweet it kinda makes my teeth hurt.”

“Excuse me? Who was practically draped all over Steve earlier today when we ran into him?”

“I was not draped all over him.” I corrected, blushing a little as I said it because I knew for a fact that yes, I was lying through my teeth. I shrugged.

“Was he kissing you like that last night? Because if so… Wow.” Nancy teased, fanning herself with the issue of Seventeen that sat next to my hairbrush on my vanity.

I blushed even more, biting my lip as I nodded.

“I’ve never seen him get that handsy before.” Nancy mused, stirring the pot a little. I took a deep breath and sat down my lipstick, turning to look at her. Raising my pinkie. “What I’m about to confess to you does NOT leave this room.”

“What?” Nancy’s brow raised as she linked pinkies with me and laughed softly.

“I’m a virgin.” I admitted, shrugging. It wasn’t a big deal either way, I just hadn’t met anyone that particularly sparked my interest in that way for more than a day or two at a time. And I was nothing if not picky. ,, Just admit you never got over your stupid crush and go, sheesh.” the thought came, making me smile. Because it was true. I really hadn’t gotten over my crush.

I think that’s what kind of freaked me out so much about me and Steve if I’m being honest. Knowing that I hadn’t ever gotten over a crush I had on him when we were way too young to really know or understand anything.

“That’s really not a big deal. I mean I am too. So is Barb. Or she was, the last time either of us mentioned anything.” Nancy smiled at me. “It just means we’re selective. Stronger. I don’t know, but I do know it’s not a bad thing at all.”

“Now if a certain short order cook at my nana’s diner were to take you out for a long moonlit drive…” I teased gently, just to watch Nancy blush. She shrugged, but she nodded at the same time. Shushing me as she giggled. “Yeah. But I mean, I am not about to act on that right now…”

“But you’ve thought about it.” I asked.

“And you haven’t?”

“Maaybe?” I answered, laughing a little. “I came close to just getting it over with last year but I came to my senses. I mean, I knew the guy wasn’t the guy if you get my drift. Besides, if he kissed like a Hoover vacuum, I really wasn’t keen on finding out about… Other things. Especially not when I bought myself a buddy.”

Nancy’s brow quirked. I held my fingers to my lips and tiptoed over to my top drawer, pulling it open. Showing her the vibrator I’d gotten myself last year. I mean, she's my friend, I know she's not going to go tell everybody. I'm also not the least bit ashamed of literally anything about myself. Private matters included.

“So you’re not really a virgin?” she asked. I shrugged. “I am as far as doing it with a guy. As far as other things? Nah. So yes and no.”

“I bet your mom flipped out.” Nancy raised her hand, covering her mouth.

“Actually, she took me to buy it. Something about she was too damn young to have me coming home knocked up with not one clue what guy was the lucky donor.”

“Ugh, my mom cringes if I even hint at anything involving a guy. And don’t even get me started about the ongoing battle with my dad about my makeup.”

“Oh, Hank is an actual child when I’m putting on makeup and getting ready to go out. He’ll insist that I wait in the living room and make the guy walk up to the front door. So he can see them.” I smiled to myself. “At least he cares. If it weren’t for him or my Nana, not sure how my life would be and I mean that.”

“Yeah, your mom was something else.”

“Remember that time she came to pick me up in that stupid jumper and the gogo boots? With a flask? On the back of some guy’s motorcycle? Just to walk me home? Then she told our teacher “It’s vodka.”” I cringed at the memory, sighing quietly.

“I hate that it took us so long to even get a little close like we were before the accident.” I muttered after a few seconds and Nancy nodded solemnly.

She happened to see the time on my alarm clock on the nightstand and she swore, hurrying into my bathroom to change clothes. “Crap! Jonathan said he’d be here at 7.”

“Nancy, it’s only 6:30.” I laughed at her rushing around trying to find her shoe as she stepped out of my bathroom and into my room. I spotted her shoe and tossed it to her.

“ Deep breaths. It’s just two people going to a carnival together, woman. Pull yourself together.” I teased gently, placing my hands on her upper arms. She nodded, taking several long and deep breaths. I don’t think they really helped, but.. I tried.

Feel Like Makin Love came on the radio and the both of us devolved into a fit of loud laughter that ended in us collapsed on my daybed.

My nana called up the stairs. “Girls, I think one of your fellas is outside.”

Nancy shot up in the bed, flinging herself off of it, and racing to my window. Jonathan was parked behind my grandma’s Chevelle, pacing beside his Mustang. Almost as if he was psyching himself up too.

I laughed softly, catching Nancy’s gaze. “Aww, he’s as nervous as you are right now.” I peeked out the window again just as he reached into his car, pulling out flowers that he had to have picked himself. When I caught him looking up at the window I stood in, I closed the curtain quickly and giggled.

“Guess who picked you flowers?” I said in a playful tone as I looked at her.

“Oh my god. No shit? He… That means this is a date and I am.. Severely under dressed.” Nancy was starting to worry. Pacing a hole through my carpet.

I shook my head, placing my hands on her upper arms again. Making her look at me. “It’s going to be okay. Relax. You look hot. Now go down there. Don’t make that poor guy suffer the Inquisition, because you know that’s what Hank’s going to put him through.” I held my bedroom door open, giving her a gentle but firm nudge when she froze in the doorway. Throwing the door shut behind her so she couldn’t chicken out and come back into my room.

After a few seconds of jamming out to Madonna, I peeked out of my door to make sure she wasn’t upstairs still, pacing the landing. She wasn’t, so I smiled to myself and shut the door again.

Flopping across my bed and grabbing for the issue of Seventeen that Nancy brought over for all of us to look through when we got back after the carnival tonight.

And almost ten minutes later, my nana was calling up the stairs for me to come down. I sprang off my daybed, pulling on my new red boots. Giving myself one last look in the mirror. Smoothing my hands over the red sundress I’d chosen to wear with the denim jacket my mom wore all the time.

“I’ll be right down.” I called out. Taking a few seconds to calm myself down, because surprisingly enough, I found myself almost as jittery as Nancy had been when Jonathan came to collect her earlier.

I made my way down the stairs just in time. Able to avert a potential crisis in the making as Hank eyed Steve. “What are you doing here, hair?”

“I’m here to pick up Jennie, sir.”

Hank eyed him and then he eyed me. “You hit your head or somethin, Jaybird?”

I bit my lip. Trying not to burst out laughing as I shook my head, I answered, “No, I didn’t. He’s taking me to the carnival tonight if that’s okay? Nana already said I could go…”

Hank eyed Steve warily. Tattooed forearms folded over his chest. Trying to look as threatening as possible. “Remember, hair… You hurt her, there’s nowhere safe for you.”

“Hank, let those two get goin! Get in here and help me eat these brownies.”

Thank God for my nana.

Steve and I hurried outside and he opened the passenger door to his BMW, letting me get in. I sank down into the seat, cringing a little, groaning because I was a little embarrassed. I knew Hank was only doing it with good intent, but still, it was just a little embarrassing sometimes.

Steve burst out laughing when he got into the car. “So that was intense, huh?”

“Just a little. I’m sorry. You know how he is.”

Steve leaned across the console, pulling me in for a kiss. Muttering softly as it broke, “I don’t blame him. I mean earlier today, Tommy just looked at you the wrong way and I wanted to punch him.”

“Yeah, no. Tommy Hagan is not my type. And he never will be.” I shook my head, pretending to be offended that Steve even put both of us in the same sentence. Steve chuckled, winking at me as he started the car and started to back out of the driveway.

“Just out of curiosity, who is your type, Jennie?”

“Ask me again at the end of the night.” I teased, glancing at him as I shrugged.

He laughed and reached out, turning the dial on the radio. We found a station to listen to and Steve reached out for my hand, lacing his fingers with mine. Raising my hand to brush his lips against my knuckles.

I squirmed in my seat a little, muttering quietly to myself as he did it. Making him chuckle again as we pulled into a parking space near Tommy’s car. I scowled as soon as I set sights on Carol and she pretended to gag when she saw me sitting in Steve’s passenger seat.

Steve grumbled and shook his head, complaining about Tommy and Carol being pains in the ass as he got out of the car. Pointedly pretending he didn’t see Tommy standing nearby or hear him call his name. Making his way around the car to open my door.

“Just ignore them. Maybe if we ignore them, princess, they’ll disappear.”

“One could only hope.” I answered, giving his hand a squeeze as I gazed up at him and smiled.

We walked right past them, but naturally, Tommy caught up to us. Staring a little too long and too hard at me. I rolled my eyes. And I found myself scrunching into Steve’s side.

“Tommy, hey man. We were just gonna go to the midway.”

“Didn’t you hear me trying to call you, Harrington?” Tommy finally tore his gaze off me to glance at Steve.

Carol was glaring daggers at me, I could feel it. I didn’t have to look over at her.

“Tommy, can we like.. Go now? I don’t want to stick around the tramp too long.”

I leaned in, hissing at her a little. Laughing when she shrank away and cringed before making a hasty retreat, practically having to drag Tommy with her when she went.

I called out casually, “It was nice to see you again too, Carol!” and turned to face Steve, finding him nearly doubled over, clutching his sides as he laughed.

“I was about to handle them for you...” he muttered as his laughter died away and he stepped closer to me, a hand lingering at my hip. I scoffed. “Them? Oh trust me. I can handle those two half-wits.”

“And I see that, Jennie. But as your date..” Steve spoke up, chuckling as he smiled at me. I swallowed hard because I wasn’t stupid. I heard him hesitate. I heard him almost refer to himself as my boyfriend. And god help me, despite my best efforts, I couldn’t stop the warm feeling that took over. Or the way my heart lazily skipped a beat or two.

I gave a soft giggle, reaching for his hand. Lacing my fingers between his as I bounced around on my feet, nodding towards the Zipper and giving him a pleading look. He eyed the ride warily but finally shrugged. “Okay, alright. But I’m telling you, it’s gonna scare you.”

“That’s why you’re here though, right?” I cozied up to him when we stopped walking for a minute.

If I sounded any flirtier… The thought came and I tried to just enjoy the moment and not get too wrapped up in my own worries and fears about letting him too close.

I needed to relax. Stop overthinking everything and just live. My mom was always telling me that before I lost her.

Steve slipped an arm around me, pulling me into his side. “You hungry or anything?”

“I’m fine right now.” I answered, gazing up at him. Raising up to brush my lips against his cheek. Making him laugh quietly. Smile at me and pull me closer as he whispered against my ear, “What was that for, hm?”

“Because I’m glad I said yes and came out with you tonight.” I shrugged as I responded. We wound up in line for the Zipper behind Nancy and Jonathan and giggling, I held a finger to my lips as I glanced over at Steve before reaching out to cover Nancy’s eyes.

She squeaked and Jonathan covered his mouth to keep from laughing about it, shaking his head at me. Mouthing a thank you when Nancy wasn’t looking. I shrugged at him and turned my attention to Nancy.

“You realize that ride is up in the air.”

“I’ll be fine.” Nancy swallowed hard.

I nodded. “Yeah, I think you’re in good hands.”

“Hey, you guys get on with us.”

“I think I’m gonna hurl. Are you sure you wanna get on that thing, Jennie?” Steve spoke up, pressing against me from behind. I glanced up over my shoulder at him and raised a brow. “Are you scared? It’s just a ride. It’ll be fine.”

Nancy eyed Steve and I, giggling as she shook her head. The line moved forward and almost as soon as Nancy and I spotted Barb, we started to yell for her. She came jogging over with a giant of a blond guy in tow.

“Logan, you know Nancy. This is my best friend Jennie. She just moved back from Louisiana. Jennie, this is Logan.” Barb was grinning from ear to ear, all doe eyed and soft giggly voice. I smiled because seeing her so happy made me happy for her. I looked up at Logan, sizing him up. “Hurt my friend, I break your knees. That’s all I’m saying.”

He chuckled, slipping his arms around Barb, leaning down to rest his chin on her shoulder. “I don’t think you have to worry about that, Jennie.”

“Hey, if you get in between Jennie and I, we can get on the ride at the same time.” Nancy spoke up.

Jonathan and Steve nodded. Steve spoke up, addressing Logan. “Didn’t you play basketball for Varsity last year? You were the senior starter, right?”

I locked eyes with Barb, wiggling my brow as I leaned in and whispered, “Ooh la la.. An older guy, huh?”

Barb blushed, teasing right back, “Mhm. Wanna explain why your lipstick is smeared and there’s just the slightest hint of red on Steve Harrington’s mouth while we’re on this topic?”

I stuck my tongue out at her, snuggling against Steve, laughing. It was our turn to get on the ride and we got into a bucket, strapping ourselves in after we’d emptied out our pockets. Steve took a deep breath. “This might not be so bad.” but then the ride took off, flipping over and he screeched “I was wrong, holy fuck I was wrong.” I grabbed hold of his hand and muttered against his ear, “Deep breaths, Steve. It’s okay. It’s just a ride. You have a harness.”

“Woman, this thing is flipping and rolling!” Steve teased, managing to plant a kiss on my forehead as he met my gaze, laughing. Leaning in to whisper against my ear, “You’re the one death gripping my hand though? Are you maybe a little afraid now that you looked down and saw how high up in the air we are?”

“Oh hush.” I pouted, burying my face in his shoulder, screaming and stomping my feet against the cage while squeezing his hand even more. “I thought it’d be okay. Mistakes were made.”

He laughed and let out several shaky breaths as the ride began to descend, finally coming to a full stop at the bottom.

We stumbled off, finding Barb and Logan and Jonathan, holding Nancy’s hair out of the way as she threw up in a garbage bin while rubbing her back.

Steve spoke up, nodding in the direction of the fun house. Grabbing hold of my hand and starting to pull me towards it, laughing. “C’mon guys!”

Barb and Logan shared a look, shrugging. Jogging to catch up. And Nancy and Jonathan finally caught up, falling in line behind us. Cozied up to each other.

I cozied up to Steve and he leaned his chin on my shoulder. “Having fun, Jennie?”

“I am.” I answered quietly, glancing back at him and flashing a soft smile.

XXX

Steve rubbed his hands together and stepped up, taking the sledgehammer. Swinging it as if it weighed nothing, even though the damn thing was so heavy he honestly thought he pulled his shoulder out of place as the sledgehammer made contact with the base of the Strongman attraction and the needle went soaring upward. The lights lit up and Steve leaned the sledgehammer against the side of the machine, pretending to curl his biceps as he turned to Jennie, laughing. Stealing the cotton candy flavored shaved ice she was sipping and taking a sip for himself as he nodded to the wall of prizes. “So, what’ll it be, huh?” he gazed at the wall of prizes too. His eyes settling on the gigantic pink unicorn and fixing on her.

“The pink unicorn.” they said it at the exact same time, bursting into laughter. The barker turned and grabbed the stuffed animal and Steve took it, holding it out to Jennie. “For you, princess.” he teased as she took it, hugging it against her. Then hugging herself against him and asking in a soft laugh, “That didn’t hurt you, did it?”

“Not even a little, babe.”

And he wasn’t stupid, either. He saw the way her pupils blacked out the rest of her eye for just the ghost of a few seconds after he called her babe. Slipping an arm around her, he pressed his mouth against her forehead and muttered quietly, “Where to next?”

Her eyes settled on a bright yellow tent. The sign outside of it proclaimed “Free readings.” and she gave him those big pleading eyes. Eyes that may or may not have gotten him in right over his head on more than one occasion when they were both kids. Eyes he couldn’t turn down.

“It’s going to be fake as hell, but okay. Alright. If you wanna go over there, we will. At least the lines not as long as the one for the Ferris Wheel is.”

“And it’s close to the field, so when the fireworks and the music start, we can go over... “ Jennie smiled, slipping her hand into his. He gave her hand a squeeze after lacing their fingers together.

“Maybe they’ll tell me I’m going to be a billionaire.” Steve teased, making her shrug. “I just wanna see if there’s any truth to whatever they tell me at all…” she trailed off and Steve eyed her, asking quietly, “And? What else?”

“I don’t know… Maybe I was hoping they’d have a message for me from my mom..” Jennie bit her lip, going quiet. Laughing at herself softly. “It’s dumb. I know it won’t be real.”

“Hey. C’mere.” Steve pulled her into a hug, squeezing her a little. As the hug broke, he nodded towards the tent, smirking. “C’mon. Let’s go see what they have to say about our future, huh?”

“Yeah. Let’s.” Jennie smiled up at him, practically dragging him towards the tent. Given that there wasn’t an actual line, they stepped into the tent. Without even looking up, the woman on the other side of the round table announced calmly, “I’ve been waiting on you two.”

Steve and Jennie shared a look, both of them raising their brows.

Jennie dug around in the pocket of her denim jacket, prepared to pay the fortune teller for the reading, but the woman shook her head, nodding towards the chairs in front of them. They sat down.

For a minute or two, it was quiet. For Steve, it was a little too quiet and he chuckled. This seemed to get the fortune teller looking up at them both from the cards spread out in front of her.

She put the cards away quickly after shaking her head and mumbling about something she’d interpreted to be worrying. “Sorry about that, I was doing a reading for a young woman who came by earlier. One of your friends, I do believe.” the fortune teller addressed Jennie.

“One of my friends?” Jennie questioned. The fortune teller nodded. And then she got down to business.

“You two always wind up together, don’t you? In every new life. You always manage to find one another.”

Steve’s brow quirked.

Jennie spoke up, laughing softly. “He’s not a believer. What’s it mean… If we’re always in each other’s lives?”

The fortune teller gave a soft laugh. Glancing at Steve for a few seconds, nodding. “I picked up on that when you two were walking over. That’s not all I picked up on…” she teased, letting her words die away.

Jennie took a deep breath. Giving Steve’s hand a squeeze beneath the table. Steve squeezed her hand back and repeated the question that Jennie had just asked. What the woman meant when she told them that they always wound up together, in every life.

“It’s not a bad thing. Well, not in the case of both of you.” the fortune teller explained, smiling at them both. “You’ve had a few not so good ones, but usually, your story has a happy ending.”

Steve let out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding. And then he immediately reminded himself that this was all just baloney to begin with. A way for the woman to make money.

“Over the next few years… Things around you are going to get downright peculiar.” and after saying this, she gazed at Jennie. “A woman is coming through for you, dear. She has the same hair as you. Wilder and curlier. I think she’s..” but before she could finish, Jennie spoke up, “My mom? Is her name Bonnie?”

The woman closed her eyes, focusing.

Then she nodded. “Tell Jen to stop fighting the natural order of things so hard.”

Steve eyed the woman warily. Giving Jennie’s hand a squeeze. Jennie squeezed his hand back and she seemed to relax even more.

The woman continued, glancing at Steve this time, “A lot of growth and change ahead for you. You are on the right path. Stay on it. No matter what strange things it might bring your way. Always go with your first gut instinct. On everything.”

Steve nodded, chuckling to himself. It was a pretty standard reading. Anyone could’ve given it.

But what the fortune teller told them both about always winding up together in every single version of life they’d lived thus far, that was sticking with him.

No matter how much he tried to tell himself this was pointless and she was doing this as a gimmick to make some cash on the side.

“As far as the immediate future. Stick together. Stick close to your friends, because there are some things up ahead and you’re going to need each other.”

The fortune teller dismissed them and as soon as they were out of the tent, Steve cleared his throat. “That was, uh.. Something.”

“It was.” Jennie was gazing up at him thoughtfully. Almost like she had something on her mind. Just as she was about to say whatever it was, Tommy spoke up from the funnel cake stand across the way.

“Hey man! C’mon. Sit with us.” Tommy called out.

Carol was quick to add, “ Kind of feels like we’re being ditched, Harrington.”

Steve grumbled in frustration and glanced down at Jennie. “It’s up to you.”

“If you want to go over, we can. But I make no promises that Carol won’t be wearing my shaved ice before it’s all said and done.”

“And that goes double for Tommy.” Steve muttered, chuckling quietly. Mulling it over.

“Ah, let’s just ignore ‘em. I don’t feel like dealing with his crap.” he spoke up a second or two later.

“Thank God.” Jennie laughed softly. Steve laughed too, shrugging. Practically dragging her as fast as humanly possible right past the table Carol and Tommy were saving for them to sit at and grab a quick bite.

“I know he’s not ditching us.” Carol mused out loud, annoyed. Tommy chuckled, teasing when he called out, “It’s okay man.. I know you’re whipped right now. I’d be whipped too.”

“Seriously? I’m sitting right here. Right beside you, Tommy.”

“I know, babe. I was just sayin, it’s nice Harrington found someone willing to put up with him.”

Carol’s eyes followed the two and she rolled her eyes, grimacing as she mumbled mostly to herself, “He could’ve done so much better than… her.”

Tommy turned to look at her. “Do you have to be such a bitch?”

“Do you have to be such a manwhore?” Carol asked in response, pouting when he mimicked her instead of apologizing.

XXX

The fireworks were starting. Steve and I hurried over. Tommy and Carol were calling his name, but we spotted Nancy, Barb, Jonathan and Logan around the same time. Steve nodded towards my friends and squeezed my hands. “I really don’t feel like hearing Carol’s mouth tonight.”

“And I really don’t feel like catching Tommy attempting to fuck me with his eyes every few seconds, ew.” I responded, asking a second later, “You’re sure you’re okay with sitting with Barb and Nancy, right?”

“Yeah! It’s actually been a lot more fun tonight?” Steve dragged his fingers through his hair as he gazed down at me. I smiled, nodding because I agreed.

Tommy and Carol were still yelling his name. Steve picked me up over his shoulder, making me laugh and a few seconds later, we were settled in between Barb and Nancy, right as the first big burst of color lit the night sky. Steve moved to sit behind me, letting me sit between his legs and lean back on him as he wrapped his arms around me.

All in all, I have to say… Maybe that fortune teller was making everything up. But maybe there was some logic to her words too. Because if I hadn’t just gotten tired of fighting off the pull I felt to Steve all summer long, I never would have agreed to come out on a date with him tonight.

And that would’ve been a serious bummer.

[protag-rantaro]

"Confusion and Familiarity" Prologue [PART 3]

Written by the fabulous Mod Tai!

Where should I go next? Hmmm...

He looked around and noticed a big door at the end of the hall. Of course, he immediately walked towards the big door, but the moment he reached out- something held him back.

What is this? A deja vu?

Strange, I feel like I have been here before, but that's impossible, right? 

He overcame his own thoughts and tried opening the door, but it was locked.

Seems like I was wrong after all or…? 

He closed his eyes and stopped walking.

That's really not the time now. I should just move on. Next station are the stairs leading to the basement.

Rantaro headed down the stairs with caution and in the basement he found… a game room? and a new person! 

"Sheesh, what a strange place. Didn't expected a game room when we're trapped in here- hmm, but it seems pretty cool. Compared to prison anyway..." he turned around with a sigh. 

"Hm, I'm Ryoma Hoshi, the men called the Ultimate Tennis pro… no longer exists. I'm nothing more than an empty shell" he stared Rantaro directly into the eyes and he backed up a little. 

"Hey, Ryoma? Are you alright? Is there something you want to talk about?" Rantaro asked and reached out his hand, but Ryoma turned around uninterested. 

"No, it's nothing. It's not like me to talk so much… anyway, I'm warning you, little one- it's dangerous to just walk up to a killer like me" and with that he left and Rantaro was completely confused.

I guess, I should try to find out more about him when I get the chance. He seems very interesting like most I already met.

Now, let's see if I can remember the way to the library, because earlier nobody seemed to be in there, but maybe now someone is…?

Rantaro entered the library and looked around curiously. The library was really packed up with a lot of books and that made Rantaro a little happy. 

He enjoys reading a lot and since they probably won't be able to escape that easily he will have enough time to read a few books in here. While looking around he noticed a girl with long brown hair sitting on the ground.

"Hey, are you alright?" no answer.

"I'm Rantaro Amami and you?" the girl turned around and quietly watched him, before standing up from the ground.

"Maki Harukawa, Ultimate Child Caregiver..." Rantaro waited for her to continue, but nothing came.

Huh? That's all?

Maki seemed to have waited as well since she took a long pause before continuing.

"... surprised? I don't look like someone who would like kids, right? Because I don't. They just come on their own. I'm not good at taking care of them and I'm not friendly either..." she played with her ponytail a little before looking back at Rantaro. 

"But Kids are intuitive! If they like you so much to come on their own... they can probably tell that you're actually a good person, Maki!" Rantaro encouraged her and Maki blushed lightly at that comment.

"It's just…! I grew up in an orphanage and got saddled with helping out a lot, that's all!" she tried explaining and Rantaro kept on smiling, while listening. 

"Don't worry! I'm sure we will get out of here pretty fast!" a blonde girl walked around the corner together with Shuichi, who Rantaro parted ways with earlier.

"What makes you think that a group capable of this would just simply let us walk out of here?" Maki asked, not believing any word the blonde girl said.

"If they won't end this then we will! I know we can do it if we work together!" she placed a hand on her chest and smiled brightly.

Wow, she is hella optimistic and-

His thoughts got interrupted by the brown haired child caregiver.

"You're a naive fool if you think you can end all of this so easily" Maki pointed out and Rantaro nodded silently. She was indeed right about that.

Maki turned around to get the book she had read earlier and walked to another corner of the library.

"Oh, I forgot to introduce myself! I'm Kaede Akamatsu, the Ultimate Pianist!" she smiled gently and they shook hands.

"Rantaro Amami and I know being optimistic can be really helpful, but do you really feel like this is going to end so easily? I mean, I asked the others and all of them can only remember their names and talents and I… I can only remember my name, not even my talent. It's like we all have amnesia or something like that" Rantaro explained and shared his observations with them, but Shuichi cut him off.

"... but that's not normal if everyone here has amnesia-" The detective was getting quieter and quieter by the second and Rantaro put his hands to his hips. 

"Maybe, we're all in a pretty abnormal situation then or something simple like brainwashing or group hypnosis...well, it doesn't matter now, does it?" Kaede took a step back in surprise and stared at him, waiting for him to continue talking.

"Well, I just hope we can get along since we won't go anywhere any time soon... sounds suspicious, but I promise I'm not a bad guy or anything" Rantaro ended his sentence, shrugged and left Shuichi and Kaede behind in the library. He still has to meet a lot of other people.

He stopped at a small gate and it seems like someone was already waiting there for him. They stood up from the bench they were sitting on and walked up to him.

"You wonder "who is this?" Yes, I will make that clear first. My name is Korekiyo Shinguji... I am called the Ultimate Anthropologist. However, please call me Kiyo and for anthropology, would you like a simple explanation?" Kiyo asked politely and Rantaro nodded clearly interested in what Kiyo has to share.

"Anthropology studies costumes, legends, folk tales, songs and much more. For example… certain aspects of birthdays or new year celebrations. It's a study that examines the thought behind culture, faith and costumes… and I believe that human beings are truly beautiful. Every aspect of humanity, even the ugly parts are beautiful- to me, at least" Rantaro listened carefully to Kiyo's little speech. 

He was truly interesting, maybe a little bit weird, but still interesting.

"What beauty will I be able to witness in our current situation, I wonder? Kehehee, people are wonderful!" 

"Wow, you sure are something else, Kiyo! But that's good, I'm sure it will never be boring with you- by the way my name is Rantaro Amami, nice to meet you" they both shook hands and chatted for a little bit, before Rantaro decided to finally step through the door he was curious about the whole time.

He opened it and was immediately greeted by a bright light, a gentle breeze and he slowly opened his eyes to see…

"A cage?" Rantaro said out loud. 

To be honest, not surprising.

I mean, I already knew it's not going to be easy to get out of here…, but giving up is not something I ever want to do.

Rantaro walked around and noticed two people in the back of the field. He quickly rushed over there to introduce himself.

"This cage is nothing compared to the universe!" One of them yelled and the taller one looked down in confusion. 

"Oh, ups! I haven't introduced myself yet. I'm Kaito Momota, Luminary of the stars! Even crying children adore the Ultimate Astronaut! How about it? Pretty cool, right? I mean I wasn't in space yet, but I'm the first teenager to ever pass the exam!" The purple haired male posed proud and the taller one clapped.

"Wow, really? Don't you need a college degree to even take the exam?" Rantaro interrupted their conversation and Kaito jumped in front of him with a huge grin.

"Actually yes, I had a friend who got me in there, but I got caught in the end and was like in pretty deep shit, y'know? But they decided they liked me and let me in anyway! Cuz I aced the exam, too" Kaito explained and he was a little speechless by Kaito's confession.

"That was pretty damn reckless, but it's really impressive as well!" Rantaro admitted, but he was so impressed that he almost forgot how this could have ended as well.

"Well, sometimes you have to be reckless to reach your dreams and make them reality! Everyone told me it was impossible, but I never gave up and aced the exam. Limits don't exist unless you set them yourself!" Kaito seemed to be an optimistic person as well… just like Kaede earlier. 

Hmm, that can be a good thing, but it can also turn out very bad… I may have to keep an eye on them if things go the way I think they are, but they are very friendly and nice so far.

"Gonta thinks that sounded very cool!" The other one smiled and  clapped a few more times in his hands. 

Third person? Rantaro looked up confused, but simply accepted it. I'm sure there is a reason for it and I don't know about it yet.

"Hehe, Thanks dude! Now introduce yourself as well!" Kaito showed a thumbs up and 'Gonta' nodded firmly.

"Uhm, Gonta's name is Gonta Gokuhara. Gonta's talent is Ultimate Entomologist. Kid Gonta bigger than other kids. Other kids scared of Gonta...so kid Gonta play alone often. That how Gonta came to like bugs, but then Gonta really focus he end up lost in forest" he explained and both Kaito and Rantaro stared at him.

"But they found you and everything was alright, right?" Kaito asked with wide open eyes. 

"Yeah, but took 10 years though" 

"10 YEARS?" for a second Rantaro had to steady Kaito so that he wouldn't fall backwards right out of his slippers. 

Why the hell is he wearing slippers anyway?

"Don't worry! New family took care of Gonta!" Gonta continued to explain his situation and the other two sighed in relief. 

"I hope they are nice people" Rantaro smiled, but Gonta looked confused.

"Not people, wolves! Cuz of forest family Gonta learned to speak bug and animal and as thanks Gonta wanna show new family what great gentlemen Gonta is" he stated happily and smiled proud.

"W-WOLVES?" and again Rantaro had to catch Kaito so that he wouldn't fall. He sighed defeated.

"That's all you heard? Seriously?" Rantaro turned his head to look Gonta in the eyes. 

"I think your forest family would be very proud of you so just be yourself! By the way you two- I'm Rantaro Amami, nice to meet you!" he pushed Kaito back on his feet, they chatted a bit, but after some time Rantaro had to leave these two behind.

Who is still missing? We're 16 students and-

Rantaro didn't know how, but somehow he found a little waterfall and a girl was curiously watching him.

"Yaahoo!! My name is Angie Yonaga and I'm the Ultimate Artist!" She quickly introduced herself with a very positive attitude.

More optimistic people? Oh well, that's going to be hard to keep track over. At least, they are all really nice, I guess.

"I'm Rantaro Amami, you're pretty cheerful, aren't you?" he asked, not sure how to respond to her positivity.

"Nyahaha!! There's no reason to carry bad thoughts with ya! You gotta live everyday like it's big, cheery and fun… so says Atua!" 

"Wow, it's amazing how positive you are- wait… Atua?" Rantaro tilted his head in confusion and Angie laughed again.

"The god of my island, Atua, is always with me, speaking to me with his divine voice… Atua also makes the art, I only offer my body as his vessel! Do you want to offer something to Atua? Boy's blood is also an acceptable offer!" Angie spoke slowly but clearly and Rantaro laughed loudly. 

That's a nice joke-

please tell me it's a joke…

please?

And then he ran for his life.

Some time passed until Rantaro found the rooms for each person. 

Finally, I'm so exhausted, I need a break… 

The moment he wanted to open the door with his picture above it someone stopped him. 

"I'm sorry, but I haven't introduced myself yet- I'm Kirumi Tojo, the Ultimate Maid. Please let me know if you need any kind of help or service!"

"Nice to meet you, Kirumi! I'm Rantaro Amami! I hope we get along well and you don't have to talk so formal, it's not necessary!" He assured her, but Kirumi didn't seemed to care much. 

"Do you have any plan what to do from now on?" she asked and Rantaro stopped in bis tracks.

"That's a tough question… it's more like what can we do… I guess we have to wait and see what happens, do you have an idea, Kirumi?" he thought hard, but nothing came to his mind. 

"As a maid my only desire is to fulfill the desires for others so please think about what you desire for yourself. No matter tge situation, no matter what happens… I am here to serve everyone" Kirumi gently put her hands together and smiled lightly and Rantaro smiled back at her.

Okay, I get big mom vibes from her… hm, we will see how this will turn out later.

Ding Dong- Bing Bong!

[leelee10898]

Fast cars & Freedom: Cant help falling in love (8/?) Part 2.

Here it is.. part 2 of chapter 8... is that really Logans mom? How does Ellies dad react to the news she is married to Colt??? You can catch up HERE. And as always, if you want to be added to the tags, drop me a line.

Pairing: Logan x Ellie, Colt x Ellie

Rating: Mature

Song inspiration:

“Riya! Damnit.” Ellie gasped, Riya instantly cupping her mouth. Ellie Stood making her way over to her father.

Colt stood behind Logan,  schock written all over his face at the series of events. Riya just announced to everyone that He and Ellie were married. Her father being an ex cop, was probably about to kill him, sure he had a gun or two, or three laying around. And did Logan just say Mom?

Logan stood there, completely stunned, baked beans covering his shoes.  Was he imagining things? Because the woman standing there next to Ellie's dad looked an awful lot like his mother.  He remembered seeing her when the foster parents would bring him to the jail to visit. That all changed when he got sent to live with a shitty set and he ran away, never looking back.

“Logan? Logan is that you?” Sally spoke, tears in her eyes.

Frank looked between the two, dumbfounded. Of all the women in the world he would fall for, he had to pick the one who was possibly the father of his grandchild, and an ex criminal. His eyes darted past Logan and locked right onto Colt, who stood frozen in place. “You!” He seethed, Pointing a finger at him. “Oh shit.” Colt quickly placed the pan he was holding down on the table and took off into the house.

“Oh no you dont, get back here.” Frank took off running after him, coleslaw dripping from his pants. “Dad, wait.” Ellie followed the two into the house. “Dad, just wait. You don't understand.” He froze in place “what don't I understand? How you ended up married to him,” He pointed to Colt who stood at the door. “Because that I don't understand.  How did this happen? When did this happen?”

“6 years ago. In vegas.” Her dad's eyes went wide. “iIt was the night before, well everything went down with the brotherhood.” Her dad slumped down on the couch, the feelings of that time crashing down on him. “She asked for an annulment Mr Martin. This isn't Ellies fault, I didn't file it. If you want to blame anyone, blame me, not her.” Colt stepped forward, his eyes locked on hers.

Her dad let out a long sigh “Well, at least if He's Lucas father, you'll be married.” Ellie closed her eyes “I'm filing for divorce.” Her dads face reddened. “Colt,  why don't you go outside and help out. I need a word with my daughter.” Colt hesitated, waiting for her command. She was his queen, she would always be his queen no matter what, and he would do anything she asked of him, but he wouldn't willingly divorce her. “Go ahead colt.”  He nodded walking back out to the back yard, leaving Ellie and her dad to have a serious discussion.

Logan blinked, stunned. “What. How did you.” He couldn't form the words.  

“Logan, I have been looking for you ever since i got out of jail.” Colt stopped immediately, backing up a pace to hear what was going on. “Oh really? And when was that? Because it seems you haven't done a great job of it.” Logan stood arms folded.  “well, there wasn't much of a trail to follow, you stayed pretty well hidden. The last bit of information I got you were in California, so I came out here.” Logan stared at her, still in Shock that his mother was there. “Can we talk? Please Logan, you have no idea how long I have been waiting to see you.” Logan nodded and the two walked off alone.  

Colt looked over to where toby and Luca were sitting at the kiddie pool, he walked over “Hey squirt, why the long face?”  “Is grampy mad at you?” she sniffled. “No, he's not mad at me sweetie. Everything is ok.” he assured her. “Hey Colt, um aunt Riya said you and mommy are married. Does that mean you're my daddy?”

"Eliana Renne Martin, what the hell do you mean you're filing for divorce?" Frank shouted. "Dad, calm down." "I thought you would be more mad at the fact Ive been married for 6 years and didn't tell you."

"Dont rock the boat Ellie. What is your reasoning for divorcing? Our family does not divorce, trust me it would have been easier to divorce your mother when she got bad, but I didnt did I?"

"No. You didnt. I just, dad we were 18 and 19, we were young and uncertain if we would be in jail or dead." Her father shutteres at the memory.

"I cant talk to you about this. I think youre makimg a huge mistake, but youre my daughter and I love you. Just please, please think about it."

Colt stood there in Shock,  not sure how to handle or answer it. He was relieved when he seen Ellie come out of the house, luckily she was headed right for them. “What's going on?” She noticed the uncertain look on Colts face. “Someone heard the announcement, and has a question.” Ellie looked down at her daughter “Mommy, if you're married to Colt, does that mean he's my daddy?” Her eyes went wide, she looked between the two,she had no idea how to answer without generating a lot more questions. “Well, sweetie i'm not sure. But how about, how about you go to see what grampy is doing ok?” Luca nodded and walked away, they look on her face told her this wasn't the last she would hear about it.

“Im sorry el, She just came out of nowhere. I didn't know what to say.” Colt ran his hand over his face. “Its ok. I didn't either. Lets just hope we get these results back soon. So we know for sure.”  Ellie looked over at Logan sitting by himself, a beer in hand. “I should probably go check in on him.” Colt nodded as she walked away.

“Mind some company?” He looked up, and patted the seat next to him. “So. I guess you heard my mom is dating your dad.” he snorted.

“I heard something like that. How crazy is that?” he let out a half hearted laugh. “But seriously, how are you handling it?”

“I don't know. I'm kind of excited to finally have my mom around. On the other hand, i'm scared.”

Logan told her how his mom was in a car with his dad and a friend. She had been dating him for a little while and they stopped at a bank, his dad apparently robbed it and she was locked up as an accessory. When she got out finally Logan had ran away from foster care and hid himself pretty well. “I guess It's nice to not be alone anymore.” Ellie grabbed his hand “hey, you're not alone. All these people here, the crew, me, Luca. We're you family. You haven't been alone because wherever you go, were with u. Right here.” She placed her hand on his heart. “Thanks Ellie. The same goes for me. I'll always be there for you, no matter what.” He kissed her cheek, and walked over to where Mona and Ximena were standing.

Ellie sat there watching her dad and Sally talk, for a few minutes before hugging and kissing. She turned her head, not wanting to see that. She wondered if her dad knew about Sallys past. She seemed like a very nice woman, and she had not seen her dad so happy. Not in a long time, not since before her mother died. She learned years ago not to judge a book by its cover, so she would give her the benefit of the doubt. If she hurt Logan, she would hunt her down and handle her, herself.  

The day went on, the drama of day seemed to fade away, and everyone ate and were enjoying themselves.  They had a corn hole tournament going on in one corner. Toby lounged in Lucas swimming pool, buzzed and sunburnt, but happy as hell. Logan and Mona were on one team, while Ximena and Darius were on another. Stacie, and Sally sat around watching them.

Colt relaxed in a lounge chair, Luca asleep in his arms, her head resting on his shoulder. “You're seriously holding her while she sleeps?” Colt chuckled “well Logan was holding her,  he passed her off to me when it was his turn in Corn hole. She just, fell asleep.” Ellie shook her head. “Suns starting to set, we should probably wake her soon so we can head over to the field and see the fireworks.”  “yeah, my arms dead, so sounds good to me.”

“Luca honey, time to wake up.” Ellie stroked her hair. She started to stir a bit. “He squirt, it's almost time for fireworks. Get up.” Lucas eyes fluttered open. “Can I have some ice cream?” she spoke with a yawn. “Yup. Come on, I'll take you.” Colt stood shaking the sleep from his arm as they disappeared into the house.

Riya slid up next to her. “Watching those two fawn all over Luca has got to be the sexiest thing I've ever seen.” Ellie's mouth flew open. “Ri, you're married and have a son.”

“I know. But seriously, I'm not even sure why you want to divorce Colt. He's clearly still in love with you. Unless.”

“Unless what?”

“Unless you want to be with Logan instead.” Riya waggled her eyes at her.

“I don't know what I want. It's just the right thing to do, divorcing colt. We were so young.”

She rolled her eyes “Whatever you say Ellie.”

“Are you Drunk Riya? And where is Marcus?”

“Mayyyybeeeee.” She giggled. “Dare set the pack n play up in the house, hes sleeping mom sheesh.” Ellie playfully pushed Riyas arm.

They headed out to the field to watch the fireworks display. Toby playing music to go with the show. “Uncle Logie, dance with me.” Luca stood up yanking on his shirt. “Oh sweetie, Stacie asked me to dance first.” Luca puffed out her bottom lip “Ok.” she turned to walk away “Lulu wait. Of course I'll dance with you. Stacie said its ok.” Luca beamed as Logan spun her around. Countless awes coming from the women watching. “Logan is such a good dancer.” Ellie sighed as she watch him float across the black top with her daughter.  

Colt cocked his brow. “Hey. I remember us having some pretty good moves.”

“Of course we did. Are you. Are you Jealous Colt?” she eyed him suspiciously.

“Dance with me Ellie.” she smirked taking his hand. “Oh I guess For old times sakes.”  the song changed as Colt pulled her closer. “You remember this song?”

“How could I forget it.”

Her mind went back to that night in Vegas.

*****

Ellie stood in the empty room, her shaking hands flattened the front of the short white dress she picked up at chapel boutique. Under better circumstances she would have had her father there to give her away, Riya as her maid of honor. She would have spent months picking out her flowers, the dress, the colors, food. But this right here, was what she wanted to do in the moment. Not knowing what the next day would hold. Would she be in jail, dead? She wanted to experience getting married,  she loved Colt, and Colt Loved her. A knock came at the door. “You ready sugar?” An older lady dressed in a tight patent leather dress asked her as she handed her a bouquet.

Ellie nodded as she stepped out of the room. A soft melody began to play as she stepped onto the aisle runner, her eyes locking with Colts.

His breath hitched in his throat at the sight of her. He looked handsome wearing a black suit, he fidgeted with his fingers, anxious to take her hands in his. She stood before him, as they joined hands. “Ellie, you are breathtaking.” his voice cracked with emotion,  making her tear up. “You look so handsome Colt.”

They turned towards the officiant, dressed head to toe like Elvis. “Dearly Beloved. Uh huh. We are gathered here today to join these two hearts together.” They tried to stifle their laughter, quickly composing themselves. “Do you Colton Take Eliana to be your wife?” Colt slid the ring on her finger “I do.”

“And do you Eliana take Colton to be your Husband?” She slid the ring onto his finger “I do.”

“By the state of Nevada and the King, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride. Uh huh.” He shifted his hips in true Elvis fashion. As Colt took her in his arms, their lips meeting in a sensual, sweet kiss.

They shared a first dance, in the chapel. Colt pulling her close to him.

Wise men say, only fools rush in. But I can't help falling in love with you.

“You know. I think the king was onto something with this song.” Colt smirked. “Oh? And what's that Mr Kaneko?”

“I couldn't help falling in love with you, Mrs Kaneko.”

*****

“I wish you would reconsider the divorce El.” Colts words pulling her from the memory.

Take my hand, take my whole life too. But I can't help, falling in love with you.

“Colt. It's just the right thing to do.”

“the right thing for who? Because I still Love you Ellie. Can you honestly say you don't still Love me?” She stared at him for a moment,  stunned. “I… I…” A loud boom went off above them, Luca came running up “Mommy. Mommy. Its starting.” She grabbed her hand “come on Colt, sit with us.” Her free hand grabbing his.

The next morning Ellie drove into town, she entered the building and stood in line. Her mind swirling from the night before, the dance with Colt, watching Logan dance with Luca. She was so confused, so lost. “Next.” She heard the woman call out. She walked up the desk

“How can I help you?”

She took a deep breath. “I need to file for divorce.”

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@daniv2278 @brightpinkpeppercorn @lovehugsandcandy @going-down-downtown @mercyparkcrew @emichelle @annekebbphotography @powdesiree0816 @walkerismychoice @yesivefallenpreytothechoicestrap @zaira-oh-zaira @sweetest-marbear @simsvetements @zaffrenotes @professorortegasstudent @akrenich @ifyouseekheart @client-327 @choicelogansbitch @choicesarehard @paisleylovergirl @itskismetbb @itsmarleen @rhischoicesfanfics @distinguishedsaladoperawinner @iplaydrake @coffeebeandragon @jasidu2

[meli4095]

My fucking journal lol I'm feeling a lot and I haven't written in a while, are these bursts because I was submissive last week? The week before. It's already been a week. How long does it take to recover from a week? Maybe it's the no caffeine and the unrestful sleep. It's a lot of animals at once. You gotta do the separation anxiety door thing. Try it out, after you cry later. I should save the money but I want peter Pipers. You will feel better if you cook though and save that money for the doctor's and gas -sheesh. I really hope you sleep tonight. I really hope he sleeps tonight. I miss him. I'm lonely. Clean stuff today, you'll feel better afterwards

[books--andt]

Zenith (The Androma Saga) by Sasha Alsberg and Lindsay Cummings

Hey everyone! It's been a hot minute since I've last written to you guys. I haven't read a whole lot, only 3 books so far this year, but I'm ok with that. I read for pleasure, and for myself after all!

So Zenith... If you don't know what this book is about, here's a brief synopsis... It follows our main character, Androma or Andi as she's usually called by her team of marauders. Andi and her team get caught up in a quest to save the general's son, but along the way, past relationships resurface, and a war that they didn't want to get caught up in threatens to swallow them whole.

**This review may contain some very small details of the book, which could be viewed as spoilers if you haven't yet read it**

Now... to be honest I had very (and I mean very) low expectations going into this book. If you've been with me for a while, you'll know I read one of Lindsay's books called The Murder Complex and I haaaaaaated it. I am also not the biggest fan of Sci-fi, but I'll touch on that later. Furthermore, I wasn't sure how the writing and story telling, this being Sasha's first book, would turn out combined with the bad experience I had with Lindsay's previous book. However, I'm happy to say that my expectations were exceeded!!!! I enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would. I wanted to know what was going to happen, and I did not see the plot twist coming.

However I do have some problems with this book. Firstly, the characters. Androma is a cut and paste version of Celaena Sardothien. This makes me really sad because I love Celaena! To me, she's the perfect amount bad ass and sensitive. She's a well rounded character. She has flaws. Andi on the other hand, is a bit... How shall I put it... One dimensional? She has this whole "I'm a fierce af warrior, I'm the Bloody Baroness and I will kill and destroy you. I want to see you die!!!" but then on the other hand she has that fake sensitive side, where she mourns the losses of those she's killed and views herself a monster. This is just kind of confusing I guess.

And Dex... he was just too cliche for me. It seemed Sasha and Lindsay were trying too hard to make him that "handsome and strong, misunderstood-hiding-secrets-lover-boy" type of character. When he and Androma had their moment halfway through the book, when they basically mutually say that they've had their time but they can no longer share a life together, I was like whaaa? Andi has found out the truth that he was keeping from her, and they obviously have some sort of feelings for each other, yet they don't want to give it a second chance?

My least favourite character was actually Gilly. Sorry, but I don't think a 12 year old cutesy-on-the-outside, but hungry-for-death-and-murder on the inside, is realistic whatsoever. I don't read many books with younger siblings or characters in them, so when I do I'm very picky. I hate when they are represented as annoying. And to me, that's how Gilly was.

One of my favourite characters was actually the AI, Alfie. I found myself lolling when he and Memory were having their little flirty moments. I hope we see more of him in the sequel, although I am a bit confused as to why he was destroyed? Like, Valen has altered DNA? So his mind controlling ability, or whatever, isn't natural then? Or was the altered DNA the Zenith thing that Nor created? So Is Valen actually not evil, and is just being controlled by Nor???? Someone explain.

I liked reading from so many different POV's. It made the pacing of the book quite fast and you got to know these 6 (there were 6 POV's) characters better. I actually liked reading into Nor and Klaren, because you didn't fully know what was going on until the end of the book. So I thought that was well done. I didn't have a favourite POV to read from. They were all pretty neutral for me.

I thought that the writing was good. I couldn't tell when it was Sasha or Lindsay writing, which was actually something I was looking for all while reading. I feel like co-authoring brings about many new challenges; what if you don't like how the other author wrote or changed something but they love it? It's great that their words and ideas flowed.

I do think however that there were some repetitive writing styles, specifically these poetic descriptions. They weren't bad in my opinion. It's just nice to see some variety.

Overall I thought this book was really heavy on cliche YA tropes. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm trash for certain tropes, but they have to be done well. Does that makes sense?

I was reading some reviews of Zenith on GoodReads and my god!!! People were being so harsh!! I understand that this book isn't amazing, but sheesh people! I read one person say they think Sasha should finish College before writing another book. Like how rude???? To any young aspiring author out there- YOU do NOT have to put your writing on hold until after you finish your education. Writers write. That's how they practise. Of course, you will learn and get better with an education, but it's not like thats your golden ticket to start writing a book.

For the most part, other reviewers agreed that Androma tried too hard to be like Celaena, but other critiques were that she was boring and one dimensional. Some said the first half of this book seemed more edited than the second half, and after pondering this I can say that I agree. However there was a lot more action in the second half, so not as much room for the fluffy poetic descriptions.

Another critique was that the book itself didn't need to be as long as it was. I definitely think there were some parts that shouldn't have been included. There were like 50 pages left when Andi and her gang went to that Ucatoria ball and I just felt like it was an odd time to be having a ball, and introducing new characters, so late into the book, and nothing was even resolved! I guess, that created the climax, and the last few chapters of the book were super short and easy to fly through. One part that, in my opinion, should have definitely been edited out, was when Andi is reunited with her mother. Firstly, her father had previously said she was ill or something, so that was confusing. Secondly, it seems that it was just put in place to show how bad of a relationship her and Andi had together. That could have easily been done with some sort of flash-back chapter. In fact, the whole family dynamic seemed really strange to me. When Andi is first reunited with her father, she has these mixed emotions, about wanting to be strong in front of him, and also wanting to crumble and be held by him. When she meets with her mother, she is so infuriated that she threatens to skin both her mother and father alive, and hang their skin like a flag from her spaceship. I mean!!! What!!!!!

Something else I need to touch on is the fact that so many people were offended that Sasha was handed this opportunity "on a silver platter". Sasha makes youtube videos in the booktube community, so obviously, she has a following and can easily get her voice out there. I have to admit, when I heard they were # 1 New York Times Bestselling Authors, I rolled my eyes. If every one of Sasha's subscribers bought her book, then of course she'd become a bestselling author! But I'm not upset about this. Sasha loves books! Her youtube channel (Abookutopia) is dedicated to that. To me, I have so much more respect for someone who's written a book from the youtube world, if they actually genuinely enjoy reading and writing. I would much rather read a book from a youtuber who makes videos around bookish topics, rather than some beauty guru or daily vlogger. So there. Get over the fact that her following probably had a big hand in getting her and Lindsay that title.

Writing is a process. And it takes time to find your voice. I think this book read too much like a knock-off Throne of Glass book. I'm kind of confused with myself because in a way, I think that's why I liked it?? LOL. I'm not a sci-fi person, but this book didn't really read like a sci-fi book. It was totally more fantasy just set in space.

I think that's all I can say for now.

3.5-4/5 Stars.

If you are getting into Fantasy/Sci-fi (that isn't super heavy on the Sci-fi lol) then I'd really recommend you read this! If you have read tons of YA fantasy and are looking for something different, well, this may not be the book for you.

Thanks so much for reading! What are your thoughts on Zenith???

- T