#TEAs for your consideration

[laurasimonsdaughter]

Concept, changeling tale as a metaphor for autism, but instead of the autistic person being fae, the neurotypicals are the fae(with their seemingly unending unspoken rules and weird punishments that humans CanNot understand), and the autistic child is a human who was fae-napped.

An excellent concept! I'm always fond of an elegant subversion of expectations <3

[silvreflamess]

nesta isn’t necessarily kind to most people initially but she is incredibly thoughtful and will remember everything about that first interaction with a person for the rest of her life

[randomnameless]

I've heard you mention before how bad the Zahras chapter is in terms of characterization for the three lords, especially Dimitri, but can you specify the reasons why?

Thanks to the datamine, I can finally get those lines without having to screencap everything from youtube!

So,

For Dimitri, Claude says this :

I'm just gonna come out and say it: After the war, I'm going to abolish the Central Church and depose the archbishop. The people of Fódlan have been shackled by this decrepit system for too long, and I'm ending it.

So okayyy...

Claude just says he has some beef with the person Dimitri welcomed as a refugee. Why?

That's right. Think about it. Who steals your freedom and gives you an endless list of duties and obligations simply because you have a Crest?

Dimitri's obligations and duties are his, not because he has a crest, but because he is a King - just like King of Almyra would have obligations and duties not to let his own people starve or be used as meatshields in Saturday raids, or letting his spurned son mount the biggest invasion ever because he's too busy mopping about his missing son, but apparently the King of Almyra doesn't give a fuck about his people.

And while yes, Dimitri is a King because he was born with a crest as Lambert's son... The need to have a crested King never came from the Church, and let's be real, Dimitri, as the character we know, feels like he has a duty to people and wishes to help because he is Dimitri, even if he was crestless like Ashe, Dimitri would want to help (just like Ashe!).

Who forces you and your friends into a bunch of unwanted marriages and positions of power?

That's not the Church, for sure, but the feudal notion of nobility - even if, let's be real, it is completely hypocritical for Claude to say this, because the same notion of nobility also exists in places around the continent where the CoS has no sway like... Almyra?

And about the unwanted marriages, again, Claude knows (or should know) Lorenz and his marriage problems, it is not the Church who forces people in unwanted marriages, but the responsibilities that come with being a Noble - Lorenz marrying Marianne means both house Gloucester and House Edmund are strengthened and could work more closely, maybe being able to rival Riegan or even overtake them in an "importance" contest, Lorenz marrying Leonie means... House Gloucester stays House Gloucester.

It's also hilarious because AG has a NPC talking about her marriage to House Gautier (I think?), and she never mentions the Church, rather mentions how she ultimately loves her husband.

The church even forbids any official contact with outside regions!

Source : my chamber pot

Dimitri knows well, after having seen Rhea helping Duscurian refugees, that the Church does not forbid contact with "outside regions", hell, Faerghus and Duscur were on relative good grounds, before the Regicide.

Not exactly great for Faerghus, right? Being as close to Sreng and Albinea as you are.

If Faerghus has sour relationships with Sreng, it's because of border raids, but of course a Prince of Almyra will never talk about this :)

And we know Albinea trades a lot with Fodlan, in general, if their damn fruits being in every region is any indication - or this tidbit from the Book detailing the Royal Territories of Faerghus :

Dominic A small but beautiful barony. Its coastal cities have become a hub of commerce through trade with Albinea.

Too bad Claude speaks, again, with confidence, about something he doesn't know, but can you imagine a micro-second that Dimitri doesn't know who Dominic trades with? Gilbert, a second son of House Dominic, is pious to a fault - but apparently he never bothers telling his brother that trading with Albinea is BaD, so...

Claude, again, is presenting the contents of his chamber pot to Dimitri, asking him to trust him based on those.

Claude continues, after assuring Dimitri that Faerghus isn't his goal !

And really, our enemy isn't the actual church so much as the people at the top who make all the decisions.

Rhea BaD

So it's not even about the Church in General, but apparently, Rhea (as the people at the top) makes the decisions to, uh, prevent the world from interacting with Fodlan (but there are Morfis merchants in Garreg Mach???) - the same woman who, in AG, we hear busies herself helping children and refugees from Duscur after a fire or what not.

(And that's not talking about the kind of official "contact" Adrestia had with Brigid and Sreng...)

I'm sorry Claude, but if the Alliance doesn't want to have any "official" contact with Almyra, it's not because Rhea forbids said contact, but it's because your father, your brother and your retainer (?) Nader apparently do not see anything wrong with a penis measuring contest that consists in raiding, "rampaging" and "bringing souvenirs" from Fodlan for funsies.

So, after playing 12 chapters in AG where Dimitri knows what Rhea does, we could expect some rebuttal, right?

I understand where you're coming from, Claude, and on a personal level I actually agree with you.

Dimi, no :(

But as King, he is opposed, not because a King has to use his head and can't do stupid shit on a whim (like marrying the still current wife of a foreign leader!)

Yes, for three reasons. First, abolishing the church would deny the king's right to rule Faerghus. Without one, the people will descend into chaos and war. Would you be able to take responsibility for such a thing, once it came to pass?

My Bad!

That mention of the King's right to rule Faerghus coming from the Church was nonsensical during the discourse days, and still is, after Nopes.

If the Kingdom's name is "Holy", remember that a name and a history doesn't mean a thing when people don't want to follow it - again, remember what happened with Adrestia? They pissed on the Church, Rhea acting as a witness is a custom you can ignore whenever you want, and they are actually waging a war against the Church of Seiros, when Seiros herself fucking created (together with Willy!) the country who has her own symbol on their flag!

Faerghus won its independence against Adrestia, Church or no Church, Faerghus existed by fucking over the Empire (as it was led by Loog). Without the Church, and faced with a powerful Empire, are we really supposed to think Faerghians won't rally behind Loog's scion to, hm, protect them or at least ensure their continued independence from Adrestia?

Second, recklessly discarding the church will only incite discord among the clergy and its supporters.

This is a somewhat valid reason, as we know, the CoS helped the Kingdom in recent times, especially after the regicide. But they are also currently helping the Kingdom against Supreme Leader's war of conquest, let it be by taking care of randoms or sending its knights to support Faerghus.

Also, the Kingdom operates on "shat upon by this game" notions of gratitude, love and loyalty - unlike Adrestia, if Supreme Leader's stunt of backstabbing the CoS after they helped her get rid of "corruption" in the Empire is any indication. And I doubt the same Kingdom folk would readily accept it if their King suddenly got rid of the organisation/woman who helped them so much during their time of need.

And finally, a revolution of this nature will not only mean casualties among the commonfolk, but will endanger your own life as well.

I will have to check the JP text because this "revolution" word is a bit contrived - there's no revolution if you're just kicking out a religious organisation in YOUR Kingdom - but yes, commonfolk will be pissed (maybe take up weapons?) even if I'm pretty sure some "noblefolk" will also be pissed at this decision.

And because Dimitri worries about everyone - save for Rhea and the church apparently because they BaD - he also worries about Claude's life.

Leaving the first two for a second, I have some serious issues with that last one. I'm glad you're concerned for my safety, but I can take care of myself

Claude really replies with "leaving logic aside" and the commonfolk casualties he doesn't give a fuck about if GW is any indication, uwu don't worry about me I can watch over myself :)

Ah, good ol' Plot Armor :)

But don't you see? The people you wish to depose are human, just as you are.

Hahahan hilarious Dimitri, those people aren't human ! Supreme Leader told me!

No matter what ingenious scheme you come up with or how careful you try to be, they will suffer.

Is he trying to appeal to Claude's compassion and moral fiber? The guy who is, in GW, invading his country for funsies, staging a double invasion with Sreng forces who are just used as decoy/fodder?

And their vengeance will eventually find you, no matter how hard you try to stave it off. I know full well the guilt that accompanies such actions…and the retribution they provoke

Lol, no.

Who can give a fuck about the suffering of Nabateans/Church folk? Being backstabbed by everyone because of propaganda, and needing to die for reasons as consistent as a baby's first purée?

"don't do that Claude, Rhea will be angry and swear vengeance against you, and blablabla cycle of hatred and retributions and blabla"

Everyone has to deal with the consequences of their decisions. If you let it rule you, Fódlan never changes.

Says Mister "I abolished a Republic and created a Kingdom in the land that used to say "we bow to no king and to no emperor" " or "I'm invading your land and killing your people" or even "I'm enrolling Almyrans in my army who will rampage and bring souvenirs and the Leicesterians (?) are totally okay with it!" ?

Claude who never ever faces any consequences for his bonkers decision through the entire game? That guy? Talks about "dealing with the consequences"? Fodlan changing is more important than Fodlan dying?

(at least that's how it was for the Alliance turned Federation...)

But not taking the time to look where you're going will only lead you to stumble and fall. And if there are those who would be hurt by this, I consider it my duty to help them.

Dimitri wants to help... Claude, who would be hurt with this "revolution", but dgaf about getting rid of the Church, aka Rhea/Seteth/the clergy who would also, obviously, be "hurt" by this stupid idea?

Heh. There you go, trying to save everyone again. You really are too good for me!

Not everyone, as we all understood - the Church can burn :)

To be honest, I'm jealous of how you're not burdened with the same restrictions.

"tbh Claude, I'm jealous of how you don't give a fuck about the number of deaths your actions are causing"

Are we... sure that's Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd talking here? Really? Wasn't he body snatched by Chilon?

Forgot OOC, this line wouldn't even be said by this character.

In the world I'm trying to create, you wouldn't be burdened by them either. You could even… No, forget that. I'm serious about what I said, though. And I really do admire how you want to save everyone. Honestly, if you weren't a king, I think we could've been friends.

"In my world, you too wouldn't give a fuck about the deaths/suffering your actions are creating! You're only worried about them because you are king! But if you weren't, you could be an amoral asshole, just like me! Could we be fwends in an AU plz?"

I feel much the same. Had I joined with you, I might have been able to see a different vision of Fódlan.

"yeah!"

Sadly, Dimitri isn't able to throw his compassion and morals to the trashcan, so he cannot join Claude !

And if you consider this line can be said during the GW events (remember, the invasion, killing Matthias, killing his soldiers and his people, etc etc), this is even more insulting.

So, as a good friend said, this Zahrofl convo shits on FE16!Claude (but the games is all about it), but more importantly, it is the only place in the game where Dimitri is Nopes'd, aka, his character does a 180° and/or is butchered because the plot demands so.

Like, anon, can you imagine a second, Dimitri, the Dimitri, wishing he too, couldn't "be burdened"' by the suffering he creates?

Imo, it's on par with Supreme Leader suddenly loving the sun and loving to swim. That character wouldn't be Supreme Leader, just like the person in this convo, isn't Fodlan's Dimitri (tfw Engage's Emblem!Dimitri is more faithful to IS's idea of Dimitri than Nopes lol).

[ozzgin]

Content: gender neutral reader, monster smut, NSFW!

I’m harping on that arranged marriage trope again, but imagine being kidnapped as a spouse for a monstrous demon lord who has a thing for humans. You’re not the first attempt, but the household servants have truly lost count on how many humans crossed their threshold. Some ran away, some were eaten alive: none of the poor, frail mortals could handle the grotesque creature and his equally terrifying temper.

They guide you to the sleeping chambers with a pitiful gaze. They expect to pick up your scattered body tomorrow morning and scrub the dried blood off the floors.

What no one took into consideration was that you’re a shameless monster fucker. One glance at the beastly husband, and you fumble to remove your clothes with trembling hands. This is going to be good, you tell yourself, face flushed in obvious arousal. His unholy majesty certainly didn’t expect you’d hop straight on his dick, no questions asked. Not that he’s complaining much; on the contrary, it takes mere seconds for him to become completely feral.

The next day, you peacefully sip on your tea, pretending not to notice the baffled stares of the servants. If that wasn’t shocking enough, their master walks in with a genuine smile on his face.

Who would’ve thought, all he needed was a good fuck.

[More Monsters] | [Part 2]

[imagines-r-s]

☆somewhere only we know☆

dr. jack abbot x reader

author's note: i will say, i have so much love for this fic. def one of my favorites that i've written, so i hope you all enjoy!! (also i might write the smut to this eventually, i don't know yet though friends)

wc: 7.9k

warnings: mutual pining, crazy tension, no one doing anything about their feelings, a bit of angst?, stubborn old man

(gif not mine)

You’re not sure how the nickname came to be, but at this point everyone was saying the same thing about Jack Abbot: he had become your bodyguard. Every time that there was any sign of harm near you, low and behold, he was no more than two steps behind you to back you up. Even if you weren’t in harm, he immediately jumped into protective mode. 

The first time that it happened was at the beginning of night shift. You always got there at least 10 minutes early, just so that way you were able to stop at the cafeteria and get your usual tea, while having long enough for it to be cooled down by the time that you dropped it at the nurses station - because for whatever reason, they made their drinks piping hot. 

Today though, you were running late. Not late to the extent that it interfered with the beginning of your shift, but late enough that your tea was still piping hot by the time you made it to the Emergency Department. Even if it was placebo, you needed at least some of your tea before your shift, but you weren’t able to do that, so you were practically dragging yourself around the Emergency Room. 

”What’s wrong with you?” Abbot asked, noticing the dragging of your feet as you paraded around the nurses station for a moment. 

“My tea was hot,” you grumbled, suddenly irritated at anything and everything, which only earned a confused look in response. 

“Is it… not supposed to be?” he said, carefully examining the contents of the thermal cup that sat in front of you. 

“I mean, it’s supposed to be hot, but the cafe makes it too hot sometimes and I usually get here with enough time for it to cool off and I-“ you paused, watching as he grabbed your small pink thermal and walked over to the lounge. “Abbot, I didn’t mean throw out what I already had.”

”I’m not, kid. I’m just getting you an ice cube or two so you can calm the fuck down. I don’t want one of my best residents dragging the whole shift.”

You simply looked at him for a moment, “you think I’m one of your best residents?” A smile slowly growing on your face. 

”Don’t let it get to your head, I just don’t want you burning your tongue.”

☆

Here and there more mundane things happened, but it still showed the care and consideration that he had for you. 

The next significant time that it happened was when a multi-patient trauma came and it was all hands on deck; all hands on deck including a particular surgeon that Abbot just could not get along with. 

”What are we looking at?” she asked, storming in as if she had been seeing this patient the entire time that you and Abbot had been working on her. It was a teenage girl that was struck by the car on the passenger side of the vehicle. 

”We got this one, Walsh. Pretty sure I heard someone needed a surgeon in trauma 3,” Jack said, not wanting to deal with Walsh at this very moment. He also had the perfect opportunity to teach you something new, but he knew Walsh would immediately interfere. 

”You can’t just put your trust in any resident, especially one you show favoritism to, Abbot. It’s not wise and could kill a patient,” she said, calmly. Even though her words didn’t bother you, you still hesitated for a moment when you were handed the scalpel. 

”As I said before, Walsh, this doesn’t look like trauma 3. Go harass whatever patients are in there,” he spoke, turning towards you,”I wouldn’t let you do this one if I didn’t know that you could do it, kid. Now we don’t have time for whatever she has to say right now.”

You looked up to grab the scalpel from him, “thank you.” You earned a simple hum in response. 

You didn’t notice the way that his actions immediately caught the attention of everyone in the room, not just Walsh. Perlah made note to talk to Princess about it later. 

☆

Although you usually worked night shifts, you got called in to help just a bit earlier today - only by a few hours. Only unfortunate thing was whenever you got called in, you needed to get there as soon as you could, so that meant no tea today. 

Jack also got called in, but he was close enough to the hospital that a quick stop to the cafe wasn’t going to throw off his day - he knew you were likely 10-15 minutes out still, so he made sure that he grabbed the tea on his way in. 

Hustling in, you made sure to set your things in your locker before making it back to the nurse’s station. It wasn’t rare for you to see Dana, but it was rare for you to see her for more than 15 minutes at work.

”Dana, hi,” you immediately rounded the station to give her a hug, “I feel like I only see you in small doses anymore.”

”It’s good to see you, too, hun. No tea?”

”You know me too well, but no. I was running late in general, plus I hate being late whenever I get called in, so I didn’t-“ your words stopped in your throat as you saw a small black thermal pop into view. 

“Here, kid,” and before you could even say thank you, he caught up to talk to Robby - who didn’t miss the interaction either. 

“Oh, well. Nevermind, then?” you said, a confused look on your face, which only made Dana laugh more. “He did say I was one of his favorites, but I didn’t know that that entailed getting me my tea?”

”You’re definitely something to him,” she spoke, in true Dana fashion. “Maybe more than a favorite.”

”No, he just said I was one of his favorite residents, it wouldn’t be anything more than that,” you said, taking a sip of your tea, only to be met with silence, “Right?”

”That’s a question for him, hun. Let me know how asking goes.”

You knew you weren’t going to ask - this was just one of those mundane things that he did for you. 

“You know, I don’t get any of my residents their ‘morning’ drink,” Robby said, as he walked beside Jack. 

“Okay, well news flash, it’s actually 4:30 in the afternoon, so no morning drink here, brother,” he spoke, keeping his voice even. In all honesty, he didn’t know why he had gotten you tea. It wasn’t like he even got himself a coffee or anything, he just knew that you would need the pick-me-up before today’s shift and felt inclined to do so - for whatever reason. 

“Still doesn’t give any reason for you getting her tea,” Robby said, a slight smirk on his face, simply brought on by his friend deflecting. 

“I don’t really need to give you reasoning. I just need my favorite resident to be on point.”

”Oh, so she’s moved on from ‘one of your favorites’. I see.”

Jack could only roll his eyes in response. Of course that’s what Robby picked up on. 

☆

Loss wasn’t foreign to you. Especially in this profession - but today it hit harder. You were no stranger to the idea and concept that you can’t always save people, but for whatever reason, today was a day where you couldn’t deal with the loss. 

You had an older patient, she came in stable for a simple procedure, but something went wrong. You had walked away under the impression that she was stable, and she was, but when you were checking on another patient, you heard the nurses call and code. This had you sprinting through the ER and giving compressions for 40 minutes. 

She should have been fine. She quite literally was here for one of the easiest procedure you could perform in the ER, yet it wasn’t enough. You stayed in her room a bit too long before Jack found you. 

“You know, it’s not your fault,” you had found a point on the tiles that was more interesting than anything else. 

“Yeah, so why does it feel like it?” You hadn’t meant to be short with him, but you just couldn’t deal with it right now. You didn’t need comfort or patience, you needed someone to yell, scream, anything other than sympathy. It was somehow more draining than if someone just yelled at you. 

“Kid,” he said, stepping closer to you. He reached a hand out to your shoulder, but you nudged him off and left the room. He could only watch you walk away. He had never gotten that kind of reaction from you - part of him wanted to leave you be, but the other part was ready to chase you down to offer some kind of comfort. 

You just weren’t in the mood for it today. You were no stranger to self soothing, growing up in a place where it was every man (or woman) for themselves, so Jack trying to offer something threw you off. It wasn’t that you didn’t want the comfort, it was that you simply couldn’t accept it. 

Another reason that he wasn’t shocked to see you up on the roof, not on the side of the railing that he usually stood on though - which gave him some peace of mind. So he simply stood beside you, a peaceful silence taking over the both of you. 

He didn’t say anything, only moving his hand over just enough to where your pinkies were touching each other. 

☆

“Hi, I’m Dr. y/l/n, what brings you in today?” you asked, pulling the curtain closed, only to see one of your ex flings in the bed in front of you. It hadn’t ended badly, just ended because the mixed work schedules made a difference. ”Oh, hey, Lucas.”

”Hey, y/n/n,” the familiar nickname left his mouth as though nothing had really ever ended between you two. 

“What brings you in?” 

“Well, note that I wasn’t skateboarding at night, but I did skateboard earlier and the issue just got worse. I figured it wouldn’t hurt to check that my favorite doctor was working tonight to help me out though,” he said, which only earned a laugh from you - loud enough that someone else in the ER heard. 

Jack’s ears perked up at the sound of your laugh, “which patient is she with right now?”

Ellis simply laughed in response, “don’t ask questions you don’t want to know, Abbot.”

”What the hell is that supposed to mean?”

She could only smirk in response, only because she knew exactly who you were with right now because she had seen the name when checking boards, “she’s with Lucas, if I recall correctly.”

”Who the fuck is Lucas?” he said, a look of disgust crossing his face. He thought for a moment, as he process Ellis had spoken like he should know who she was talking about. “Wait, as in that Lucas?”

She couldn’t help to hide the smirk on her face, “maybe.” The smirk turning into a laugh as she watched him shoot up from the nurse’s station to go check on a patient that likely has a simple sprain. Before he knew it, he was moving the curtain back to see you and Lucas talking. 

“No, but it’s not like anything crazy, just a small get together. We also wouldn’t have to exclusively stay with Marcus and them, I didn’t plan on it at least,” he spoke, glancing up to see the older Doctor behind you. 

“I mean, I can see what I can do. No promises though, remember, I’m a very busy woman,” you spoke, checking the bandages on his ankle. Feeling a presence behind you, you moved to check behind you, only to see Jack there. ”Oh, hey?”

”Hi,” he said, tone short and voice laced with something you couldn’t recognize. He simply kept his eyes on the patient in front of you. 

“This is Dr. Abbot, by the way. Usually, he’s at least a tad bit more personable, but he’s not really trained to deal with some people, so give him grace,” you said, earning a laugh from Lucas. 

“I gotcha. Hey, man. Are you one of her teachers or?”

”Something like that.”

Sensing whatever tension was there, you quickly tried to dissolve the tension. “I’m going to go check back on some results though and I’ll be right back. Dr. Abbot?” you asked, nodding your head outside of the curtain,”care to explain what the fuck that was?”

”I don’t know what you mean,” he said, looking anywhere but your face. You took a moment to examine the expression on his face before you smiled. ”What is it?”

”Did Ellis tell you who Lucas was?”

”No, but he’s been mentioned before in passing,” he spoke, tone still short. 

You couldn’t help but laugh, “You’re jealous?” He couldn’t say anything in response - he wasn’t a liar. “Oh my god, you are. I was just saying that. Wait. I have so many follow up questions.”

”And I have no follow up answers for you, y/l/n.”

☆

“Okay, wait, so you mean to tell me, that he did all that and didn’t say anything else after you said you had questions,” your friend asked. 

“I can respect top tier avoidance, but doing that without actually clarifying did not help me one bit,” you had today and tomorrow off and your friend hit you with a ‘going out, you wanna come?’ text - so who were you to say no. 

“Hmm, you know what I sense, a planned drunk text,” she said, taking another sip of her margarita. You guys had made a stop at the bar before you would go to the club, mainly to rehash, but also make sure you had enough food in your system. 

“I don’t know, that’s a little much for knowing nothing for sure,” you said, but you had already been contemplating it. 

“Okay, so then, let’s get fucked up, so you can forget about your indecisive-hot-older-doctor crush,” she said, calling the waiter over to you, so you could get your checks. 

The two of you elected to meet some more friends out at the club, mainly for the safety of having a bigger group. As the night went on, the drinks kept coming and the music kept playing, but it was a much needed break after the tension filled days and thoughts of the doctor in your head. 

By the time that your friends were considering leaving, you knew that you were done for. The thoughts of Jack that were in your head weren’t going away - in fact, your drunk, delusional brain was starting to convince you that the idea of calling him was the best idea ever. 

“Should I call him, guys?” you said, your words somehow rushed and slowed simultaneously. “I kinda want to call him.” You were immediately met with mixed reactions, but your brain chose to ignore those disagreeing. 

Before anyone could even process, your phone was open to his contact and you were pressing the call button. It might not have been your smartest decision, but here you were. The phone rang once, twice, but on the third ring he picked up.

”y/n?” his voice sounded concerned - of course it did, you never just randomly called him.

”Hi, Jack,” you said, a smile grazing your face, even though he couldn’t see it. “I just wanted to, um, to talk to you.”

”Where are you?” 

“I’m out with friends.”

”Friends? Or Lucas?”

You giggled at that, “wouldn’t you like to know, pretty boy.”

A deep chuckle rang out from his side of the phone, “you think I’m pretty?”

”I think a lot about you, a lot. But, I’m not, don’t think I’m complaining about it.”

He simply sighed, “you have a safe way home?”

”Yes sir,” you said, he wouldn’t admit that it did something to him. 

“A sober driver?”

”An uber,” you said, getting into the car with your friends. The laughing in the background alerting him that you were on your way. 

“Let me know whenever you get where you’re going safely. Okay, sweetheart?”

”You called me sweetheart.”

”I know. Goodnight, y/n.”

”Goodnight, Jack,” and it wasn’t too late after that that he received a slightly misspelled text that you were home safe. 

Luckily, you were someone that didn’t get hangovers, but that didn’t make the pain of acknowledging the outgoing call to ‘Jack Abbot’ or the mistyped message saying you made it home any easier. You silently cursed yourself as you spent the day to yourself, knowing that you would have to see him tomorrow. 

Going into your shift, you prepared yourself for anything, you weren’t prepared for the small black thermal to be filled with your favorite tea, with a note signed off from ‘pretty boy’ on there. You could only shake your head knowing exactly who the note and tea was from, along with the knowledge that he probably signed it off that way because of you. 

“Pretty boy? That’s an interesting sign off,” Dana spoke from behind you. 

“Yeah, it’s something,” you spoke, folding the note and putting it in your pocket, you simply sipped on your tea. It wasn’t until you saw both Jack and Robby walk out, a smirk on both of their faces. “If you have something to say, just get it out now.”

The two of them could only cackle in response before Jack finally spoke up, “look, I just didn’t take you as the type to drunk call, y/n. That’s all… or call me pretty boy for that matter.”

You could only drink your tea and walk away in response. “I’m sorry, sweetie. I’ll make them leave you alone,” you heard Dana say from behind you. 

Before you could process it, Jack had fallen into rhythm with you. “Where are you going, sweetheart?” 

“Nowhere in particular, pretty boy.”

”Look, I know I made fun of it, but I can’t say I hate it,” he speaks, honestly. 

“I didn’t hate you calling me sweetheart either.”

☆

 You tried to avoid her, you really did, but unfortunately Gloria was the type to always find a way to you. “Dr. y/l/n, I’m glad I could catch you before your shift actually started.”

You simply smiled, sipping on your tea, “crazy stuff, Gloria. How are you?”

”I’m good, I wanted to bring something up with you,” you remained silent, letting her continue. Looking behind her to see Jack already looking at you, “I was making sure that you knew, due to excellent patient satisfaction ratings on your part, you’ve been invited to our annual gala.”

”The one that is primarily only attendings?” you were surprised that it was being brought up to you. 

“Yes, some of the board members were extremely impressed by a lot of things on your record - patient satisfaction ratings being one of the bigger ones - but they like to see that you genuinely care about things that happen in this hospital and they were wanting to see some new faces.”

You laughed at the last part of the sentence, knowing that implied they were tired of seeing Jack and Robby being the main ones there every year. “I don’t have a choice, do I?”

”You always have a choice, Doctor, but there is a wrong answer here,” she said, handing you the paper invitation. 

“Gee, thanks.” Now you had to find a dress. 

The next day, you texted Dana asking if she would be free at some point to go dress shopping with you soon before the gala, to which she was ecstatic to go with. So, the next day there was crossover in your days off - which was way too close to the gala for your liking - you went dress shopping. 

“Look, honey, all I’m going to say is that old man you’re into is going to lose it,” she said, laughing to herself once you stepped out of the dressing room. The dress was simple, but enough. A simple, long black dress with a white bow in the back to contrast. 

“Dana.”

”You know I’m right, you look good, kid.”

☆

Jack didn’t want to be here. He knew Robby didn’t want to be here either, but here they both were. Him with his whiskey, Robby choosing against drinking. “I still hate these things, I’m just waiting for Dana to get here, so she can talk shit with us like she usually does,” Robby said, speaking up first.

”Yeah, I don’t think these things will ever get anymore interesting, especially when all these donors care about are the surface level issues, never what actually matters,” Jack spoke, his eyes scanning the group of people that were here. “I just need Dana to get here to at least make sure I’m not falling asleep during all this.” 

“You know this is y/n’s first gala,” Robby said, gauging Jack’s reaction. 

A confused look came over his face, “wait, she was invited?”

”Yeah, your favorite resident isn’t just your favorite. Her patient satisfaction scores were above everyone. I know she didn’t learn that part from you.”

“Shut up, you already know that she’s one of the best that we have. She’s going to go far with whatever she decides to do,” he said, turning back towards the bar to set his now empty glass up. “I can’t wait to see where she goes in life.”

”You being a part of it? Or?” Robby wasn’t a stranger to asking Jack about you anymore. He knew his friend well enough to know that he was only hesitant of where things would go, in fear that things would end badly. Jack didn’t want to risk losing you to any extent. 

“If she wants me to be, I will be there.”

”If who wants you there, you’ll what?” he turned at the sound of your voice. His jaw dropped at how gorgeous you looked. Dana stepped into the circle after she finished talking to one of the donors. 

“She looks nice, don’t you think, Jack?” Dana asked, but she could clearly see that you had, in fact, left him speechless.

“Yeah,” he paused to gather his thoughts, “you look gorgeous, y/n.”

”Thank you, Jack. You don’t look too bad yourself,” you said, as if you weren’t absolutely losing it over the way he looked in a tux. “I really feel out of place here, I think I only talked to one other resident so far - and that was out of the five people we had to talk to to get over here.”

”You deserve to be here, sweetheart. Don’t worry,” he left it at that, watching as Dana and Robby left to go check in with Gloria. He came closer to you, unsure of what to do. He considered reaching for your hand, but as he go closer and the smell of your perfume hit him, all he could do was ball his fist before flexing his hand. ”I can’t even think straight around you during a work day, you have no idea how hard it is for me to keep my thoughts together right now.”

A smile grew on your face that he had seen countless times before, but this time was different. You weren’t any different, but the smile on your face meant something different. 

Before he could say anything else, he was interrupted by Gloria swooping in, “Dr. Abbot, Dr. y/l/n, I’d like to introduce you to Mr. Palmer. He was the one that saw some of your records and made sure that you were invited today,” she said, leaving the three of you alone. 

“Dr. y/l/n, I was extremely impressed when I saw and heard certain things about you. Patients love you, other doctors are incredibly impressed by you, you have a lot of potential,” he said, a cocky grin on his face that screamed ‘I have money and I hope that it shows’.

”Thank you Mr. Palmer, that means a lot,” you could feel Jack’s eyes on you. 

“Yeah, of course. You look stunning tonight, I would never miss the opportunity to ask someone so beautiful to dance,” he said, moving his hand for you to take. “Can I have this dance?”

You paused, not missing the glare that was sent in Mr. Palmer’s direction. You wanted so badly to object, but you knew this wasn’t the place that you could. “You may.”

Jack was heated. No. Correction, Jack was fuming. He could tell based off the way that he was looking at you, he wasn’t actually impressed, it was a base level statement. Unfortunately given context of time and place, he couldn’t do anything but watch from a distance. 

Robby and Dana had watched the whole interaction, moving closer to talk to Jack, but not before placing bets on how long he would last before cutting in. “You okay?” Dana asked, softly. 

“Just peachy,” his eyes didn’t leave you. He watched as the two of you started dancing, keeping watch of where he decided to set his hands - moreso how badly he wanted to be murdered. 

“You know, I told her whenever she bought the dress that it would catch your attention. Goals were achieved tonight,” Dana joked, hoping to add light to the situation, but he was still laser focused on you. 

“Yeah, it definitely caught my attention.”

You smiled to keep face, but truth was Mr. Palmer, who ironically was in fact named Chadwick, was a cocky son of a bitch that did not seem to have respect for you or any doctor for that matter. Conversing with him was nauseating, to say the least, but you knew that you had to keep up appearances - especially being a specially invited person. 

You were letting him go on and on about his recent golf experiences, when he suddenly changed the subject to you and how you looked in the dress - you knew immediately where he was going to go with this. You knew you were right when he talked about wanting to get out of here eventually and he tried to move his hand lower on your waist. 

“No, sir. I don’t think so,” you said, attempting to pull away, but he pulled you tighter. “You’re not getting what you want, even if you try pulling me tighter.”

”Oh, I would hate for something big to mess up that star reputation of yours, wouldn’t you?” he spoke, you had seen this move too many times. A very unfortunate abuse of powers, you were stuck.

“I know how good my reputation is, you can’t tarnish that, you prick.”

”Oh, but one word to Gloria and I can easily get you taken out of a program. I’d be cautious.”

“Yeah,” a familiar voice spoke from behind you, “I would be cautious, too. Get your hands off of her.” 

You didn’t know, but Robby and Dana had also moved in closer. You felt yourself let out a breath of relief. You stepped back and were on your way back to the bar when he had the audacity to say something else, “damn, I didn’t realize you got this far by fucking your ‘mentor’.”

The wire snapped. Anything that was holding Jack Abbot back from letting the man in front of him have it disappeared and before he knew it, the man was on the ground from a mean right hook. “Watch your fucking mouth.”

You stood there in awe. So much had happened in a short timespan, you didn’t even have the chance to recollect your thoughts. Robby had simply pulled Jack back just enough for him to process what was happening, “Jack, not here.”

Jack simply looked back and grabbed you, both of you immediately leaving. ack didn’t know what to say, the only thing keeping him in line right now was the click of your heels behind him. 

“Jack, wait up.” It wasn’t until you two had stepped outside that you had said it, but the only thing that let him know that was the cooler air hitting his face. 

“I’m not apologizing for defending you, sweetheart. I don’t care, he had no right to say what he did to you. I should have done way worse,” he kept going. Ranting on and on about the man that had disrespected you.

”Jack.”

“And him using, well attempting to, use the money thing against you made it even more of a dick move.” He kept ranting. 

“Jack, look at me,” you said, stepping closer to him. 

“What is it, sweetheart?” and before he knew it, your lips were on his. 

☆

Robby was going to hurt Jack. Not that he did anything specific, but after the events at the gala, he went MIA. He didn’t completely disappear, but he made an adamant point to avoid you and anyone he could at work. He was simply in a clock in, clock out mode. 

You tried your best not to care, you really did - it just took a lot to go from bits of nothing to the events of the gala back to square one. You missed seeing his black thermal next to your pink one or his little notes. Or him, for that matter. 

It was a total switch up from the emotional roller coaster that you had been on for the past eight months. How could he just go from this to normal? How could he just go from this to nothing with you?

It seemed too easy for him. Maybe it had been. 

Dana had made the suggestion that maybe you switch to days for a little bit, that way you weren’t constantly pressed on the issue that was Jack Abbot. She was also on the verge of attacking the man verbally - maybe physically - for what he was doing to you. 

Robby knew. Robby knew exactly what had happened, but he also knew his closest friend well enough that he couldn’t press on the issue in fear of making it worse. Jack was scared. You had eased him out from behind certain walls, but the certainty of a kiss made him want to build them back up. 

Jack knew, too. He knew that he was hurting you, but he couldn’t stop himself. He had his walls built up for a reason: to protect himself and you - but unfortunately, he was just harming you in the process. You switching from night shift for a few days per week is what made him immediately regret the decisions he had made after the gala. 

He showed up an extra 40 minutes early when you worked the day shift, just so that he could see you for longer than what he had been. He found peace in the night and darkness, but you were the one that was bringing him light for the time being. 

“I expected to find you up here,” he heard Robby say, eventually sensing him right behind him. 

“I know. I knew someone would know I was up here.”

”She knows too, she’s who sent me up here to make sure you didn’t jump,” Robby said, making Jack turn to face him. “You should talk to her. She’s holding it together, but she’s not doing good, man. I’m not going to say it’s your fault-“

”But you want to though.”

”Yeah. You might be her mentor, but at least she didn’t pick up on your small lack of emotional intelligence.” 

“I fear it’s too late for her to forgive me. I don’t want it to be, I-“

”You love her?”

”Yeah, I do.”

”So, you have to fix this, Jack,” and before he could respond, Robby left him on his own.  

☆

It started off gradually. You went back to working just night shifts, tired of letting him get to you. You were cordial, you did your job, and at the end of the day you immediately went home. 

The way that you and Jack worked together didn’t change, he still rightfully encouraged you to be the best doctor that you could be - he would blame himself if this directly hindered your career. 

“Sweet cheeks, why so glum?” you heard Myrna’s voice ring out from behind you. 

“I’m okay, Myrna. Also, sweet cheeks?” you questioned, sending a confused look her way. 

“You’re sweet and-“

”You know, I’m okay without you elaborating.”

”Suit yourself. You seem upset, who hurt ya? I can hurt them like I hurt my husband,” she said, making you glad she was still in cuffs. 

You smiled at the older woman, “I appreciate you, Myrna, but I promise I’m okay.” You removed yourself as far from her as you could, but when you heard the doors open, you made direct eye contact with him. You didn’t miss the two thermal cups in his hand. 

It was a silent exchange, he didn’t say anything else; opting to simply set down the mug and send a nod your way before he went to talk to Robby for handoffs.

“Have you two talked any since the gala?” Dana asked, pulling you away from your thoughts. Simply shaking your head, she let out a sigh. “I don’t like to see either of you hurting like this, especially you. He’s just too stubborn for his own good.”

“I know,” you said, sadly. “I just don’t feel like it’s my place to try and fix things as he’s the one that MIA, I just miss us - not that it was anything for sure, but it still felt like enough.”

“He’ll get it eventually,” Dana said, putting her jacked on and grabbing her bag, “I just hope sooner than later. Alright, hun, I’m heading out. Holler if you need anything.”

With that, it was you and the rest of night shift - and Robby, who couldn’t leave on time to save his own life. You fell into rhythm with Chen and Ellis as they walked during handoffs.

”Haven’t seen you with your bodyguard recently,” Chen said, his tone even. 

“My bodyguard?”

Ellis made a face and Chen could only laugh at you, “Abbot.”

“He’s not my bodyguard,” you grumbled, choosing to ignore the two of them. 

“That’s not what I heard, especially with him punching some guy out for you at that gala. A non-bodyguard wouldn’t do that,” Ellis said, a pointed look on her face. 

“Whatever.”

☆

Dana had decided to have a small, sweet get together for her birthday; she was able to leave her daughters with a babysitter and just wanted to spend some time with the people she cared about most. This led to you being sat near Heather, Robby, Frank, Cassie, Samira, and Jack, at a table in one of Dana’s favorite bars. 

You elected to ignore the ongoing sense of Jack’s eyes on you as you talked to Samira and Cassie. Cassie was ranting about her ex making a stop in the hospital for something as stupid as the skateboarding accident, but her voice kept fading into the background as you looked to see Jack’s eyes already on you. 

“Can you guys just make up already? The tension is actually insane,” Samira whisper-shouted to you. 

“Please, we’re begging,” Cassie added, “it even makes my heart beat witnessing all of this. It’s tiring. Just kiss, make up, maybe do more, we sure as hell won’t stop you.”

You laughed, “don’t you guys have jobs? My life and relationships should not be the primary focus of your day. Now, I don’t know about you guys, but I need a drink - will one of you guys come with?” 

Samira was already getting up when Cassie spoke up, “I’ll come with you, but I won’t get anything.” She told the table where you guys were going before she caught up to you. “Wait, y/n/n, isn’t that, uh, what was his name? That fling you had last summer?”

”Who? Lucas?” you asked, looking up to see him on the other side of the bar, you sent a small smile his way that he immediately reciprocated. He moved away from some of the friends that you recognized and headed your way. ”Hey, Lucas. How are you?”

”I’m good,” he nodded towards the two other girls around you as you introduced them. “You ladies getting anything to drink? They can be on me. y/n, you want your usual? Or are you drinking drinking tonight?”

You didn’t miss the smirk that was on his face, “I’ll have my usual, but I wouldn’t be opposed to a round of shots for us, too. Don’t think you’re going to get lucky though just for buying us drinks, Lucas.”

”Can I not just buy a pretty girl drinks without any ulterior motives?” he spoke, smoothly before turning to the bartender. “Four shots, a strawberry mojito, and - would you ladies want anything else?”

”I’ll have a tequila sunrise,” Samira mentioned. 

“I’m not drinking, but thank you,” Cassie added. Lucas nodded before getting the order finished. 

“I’m going to go back to the table, are you cool here with Samira?” Cassie asked, looking to you for a response. 

“I’m good, thank you though. You think I should drink the extra shot?”

”As long as you can handle it, y/n/n,” she said with a laugh. Turning back to the table, she let out a cackle at the sight in front of her: Dana and Robby watching Abbot, trying to hide the smiles on their faces as Jack looked like he was about to lose his shit - if he hadn’t already lost it. 

Once Samira got her drink and took the shot with you guys, she turned back to the table to already see most eyes on you and Lucas. “Oh, I’m not saying I can see steam rising from Jack’s head, but the man could very easily have steam coming from his ears.”

”He can’t get mad if he’s not going to say anything about how he feels,” you spoke honestly. Lucas turned and immediately recognized the doctor that had been looming the last time he had to go to the ER. 

“I don’t think I’ve ever gotten a look like that from a man that wasn’t in love,” Lucas said, taking a sip of his beer. 

“What?” 

He shrugged, “He wouldn’t look at me like he wants to kill me, if he wasn’t in love with you.”

“Random man does make a fair point,” Samira said, “can I please have your permission to stir the pot some? Just to see what the old man does?”

Lucas laughed at that, “just don’t get me murdered if you do, I have a lot to live for.”

”I don’t know what you have planned, but do what you have to do at this point,” you said, mentally preparing for what could happen. 

When Samira sat down, she immediately turned and told Cassie what was going on - she didn’t exactly have a master plan, but she did know it wouldn’t be difficult to get him to his breaking point. 

“Why’d you leave her up there, Samira?” he said, blinking slowly before taking a sip of his water. 

“She seemed okay up there, plus I’m not one to interfere on romantic matters,” Samira said, earning a laugh from Cassie and Dana. Robby could tell based off of Samira’s face that nothing was actually going on, she was just saying stuff at this point. Jack simply rolled his eyes before going back to his y/n watching. 

“I remember them being a thing,” Heather added to the mix, “they were cute, it didn’t work out just because of schedules though. Honestly, if his job changed any, I don’t think they should avoid trying again.”

Jack’s face remained still, but everyone at the table was on the same page: push his buttons just enough for him to do something. His attention was brought back to the bar at the sound of your laugh, which was usually one of his favorite sounds, but not when it was because of another man. ”He can’t be that funny.”

Everyone at the table could barely contain their laughter anymore, continuing to say things in hopes that it would finally make him get up and talk to you - but for whatever reason, nothing was working. Maybe it was just simple self control?

Jack kept his eye on the table, the noise of the bar drowning out as he waited for you to return to the table. He didn’t see you come back, but the smell of your perfume had has head snapping up, “you have fun, sweetheart?”

You smirked, the nickname usually kept between the two of you. “Yes, I did. Thank you for asking.” You continued talking to everyone at the table, but didn’t miss the feeling of eyes dancing between you and him. 

“Jesus Christ,” Robby muttered, shaking his head and you thought you could see Dana’s eye twitch. 

“Bitch,” Samira said, eyes wide, “I swear to god, if you do not leave tonight with him, I will hurt both of you.”

”Same,” the collective said.  

More time passed, but nothing happened. Jack didn’t really say anything else to you and you assumed that he had given up on whatever there was with the two of you. Before you knew it, another hour had passed and the table that was full before was down to just you, Robby, and Jack - everyone else going home together so they made it back safely. 

Robby looked at both of you before he started, “You guys need to figure your shit out. If you need me here to talk it out, cool - note, I won’t stay past anything other than conversation though.”Jack didn’t say anything. You didn’t know if that made you feel better or worse. “Okay, so this is the part where the conversation happens, if you were unaware.”

He stayed silent again, this time you weren’t having it though. “I appreciate the attempt, Robby, but I think everyone has tried hard enough.” You tried your best to keep your voice even, turning to grab your purse and move your chair, you were ready to make the walk home or get an uber home. 

“y/n, wait,” Jack’s voice finally said, “I- Can I drive you home?”

You looked from Robby to Jack, “I was just going to get an uber. It’s all good though.”

”y/n. Please,” at that your eyes turned to him. He was pleading with you, saying a million things at once. A million things that he had intended to say, but you saw it - you knew him well enough to see it. 

“Okay.” 

“Well, kiddos, if that’s all settled, I’m headed out. Let me know when you guys make it back safe though. I’ll see you guys at shift change,” and with that it was just you and Jack. 

”Are you ready to head out or?” you asked, breaking the silence that had taken a moment to settle between the two of you. 

“I’m okay staying for a second,” another beat of silence, “you look beautiful tonight, by the way. I just didn’t want to add fuel to the fire that our friends were waiting on, only reason I didn’t say anything sooner.”

”Yeah, there’s a lot of things you could have said sooner.” Was the comment a bit mean? Maybe. Warranted? Yes.

He sighed, “I know. Trust me, I know.”

”Okay, so if you knew, why? Why did you drag this on, push me away, all of that? I would much rather you just said that you didn’t want something with me than drag me along.”

”Sweetheart,” he said, reaching his hand across the table to yours, “trust me, I want you. So bad that I fear it could kill me. I just- I pushed you away because I was scared and for that I’m so sorry. In no way did I want you to feel unwanted.”

”Scared? Of what?” you weren’t even mad at him anymore, you just wanted answers. 

“Scared that, if I admit how I feel about you that I would lose you.”

You stayed silent a moment, tilting your head in confusion, “you thought you would lose me? So you pushed me away?”

”It sounds stupid like that, but I’ve lost so much in my life already. You mean so much to me and I didn’t want to risk losing that. I love you, y/n, and me admitting that made it real. And when it’s real, I have something to lose,” his eyes met yours again, “I can’t lose you.” 

You didn’t know how to respond. He had just admitted that he was in love with you and all you could do was look at him for a moment - his hand on yours was the only thing grounding you. ”I love you, too, Jack. I just didn’t deserve you pushing me away. You mean too much to me for that.”

”I know, and I’m so sorry that I put you through that,” a small smile appeared on his face, “I’lll make it up to you, I promise. Let me get you home.” 

You didn’t know if you should, but all disagreements flew out the window when you saw the way he was looking at you. “Okay.”

☆

As the sun eased into the room the day after, you felt yourself pulled back towards the body behind you. You felt at ease, at peace. A night of repeated ‘I love you’s and ‘I’m sorry’s to make up for lost time. A morning routine that the two of you developed in a few hours, him making breakfast for the two of you and you being the comforting presence he needed in that moment. 

The two of you made up for lost time before you had to prepare for work. Stopping at your apartment so that you could grab your scrubs and work bag, he looked at the pictures you had around of friends, family, and the memories that you had made - his mind immediately going to the new ones the two of you could make. 

Opening your cabinet to grab one of your thermal mugs, he saw the multiple pink thermals that stayed there, “I didn’t realize you had a problem.”

“I have at least one for every day of the week and then some for if I don’t feel like washing them, it’s a system that works” you said with a shrug of your shoulders. He let out a light chuckle at your ‘system’, but he couldn’t ignore the way that seeing two of his black thermal mugs in there made him happy. 

“I see I’ve made guest appearances here that I didn’t even know about,” he said, placing his hands on your waist from behind. “Are we stopping for tea before work?”

”Of course, pretty boy. Your favorite resident can’t be dragging,” you said, heading out. 

The two of you made your way through the cafe and into the Emergency Department, not missing the way that Dana’s face lit up at the two of you entering together. 

“I see the two of you finally made up,” Dana said, a smirk on her face, “and based on the way your skin is glowing, maybe more than just a make up.”

“Thank God, you guys needed to do something,” Robby said, nearing the nurses station. “I was genuinely so close to actually losing it, you have no idea.” 

------

taglist: @dayswithoutcoffee @dragonsondragons @literazine

hope you guys enjoyed!! feedback is always welcome

xoxo

ash

[clockwayswrites]

An abundance of birbs part 33

Masterpost Please no editing or concrit, I know I have missing or swapped words, but I am super fuzzy from this headache. It will get a good edit before ao3. <3

“I’m hiding in here from your children,” Danny said as he came into Bruce’s study. He had a tray of tea and snacks in hand, so he must have been sent up by Alfred.

“That’s more than fair, considering,” Bruce said with a little smile.

Danny just sighed as he set the tray down. “You have video, don’t you.”

Bruce nodded. “Jason sent one and Tim the other. They’re very moving.”

“Yes, Jerry’s love for me is eternal, clearly,” Danny drolled.

“If only Jerry’s father would approve of the union,” Bruce said.

Danny gave a little hum as he poured the tea. “Alas, Damian does seem very resistant to the idea, if the lecture he gave Jerry is any indication. Cream, sugar?”

“A little cream, thank you,” Bruce said and got up from his desk. “And Jerry was being very forward so the lecture may be a little deserved, but who can blame him with those wings.”

“Mister Wayne,” Danny said with an exaggerated gasp, “are you you saying that you’re enamored with my wings?”

Bruce reached out and brushed his fingertips through Danny’s wings. He could play it all off, of course. It could just be part of the rest of their banter. But did he want to? He’s enjoyed having Danny around. The man seemed to just fit with the family. Overall, the children certainly seemed to like him. And, well, Bruce found that he quite liked Danny too. Maybe it was time to take a little risk.

“Yes,” Bruce said. “Though the wings are hardly the only thing about you that I’m enamored with.”

Danny blushed so quickly that Bruce was honestly a little concerned bout Danny’s blood pressure. “I—um, oh?”

“Is it that surprising? You’re kind, intelligent, considerate. You protected my children and even before that were gentle and understanding with them. You have a sense of humor and seem able to handle just about anything,” Bruce said, which was almost an understatement with what Danny has been through lately. “And, more shallowly, you’re very attractive, with or without the wings.”

“That—I—oh come on, you of all people can say someone else is attractive!” Danny sputtered.

“Oh?”

“Have you not looked in a mirror recently? You’re the type of person that ‘devastatingly handsome’ was coined for,” Danny said with a gesture at Bruce. “Which is something that I just said out loud. I don’t suppose you want to fire me so that I can run away to a remote island somewhere?”

Bruce chuckled. “Fortunately, I don’t have that sort of power over your job. All that would fall to Lucius.”

“Fortunately?” Danny repeated.

“Umhum. It means that there’s no company policy we’re breaking if we were to date. And there’s no pressure for you to say yes if you’re opposed to the idea,” Bruce said. He very much wanted to make that clear. “And between the press, my reputation, the large family, and the recent rogue attack I know there are a number of reasons to be opposed to the idea.”

“Bruce,” Danny said before Bruce could continue, “are you trying to talk me into dating you or out of it?”

“I well…” Bruce cleared his throat. “I don’t want to assume anything or imply that I am some sort of catch because I hardly am. I am a stubborn man. I have… a rather deep seated anxiety that verges on paranoia at times. It has and can make me overbearing when I try to protect the people I care about. I come with six children, almost as many pseudo children, and a frankly terrifyingly competent butler who is like a father to me. Every relationship I’m in and not actually in ends up in the paper—”

The spiral of words—of reasons he wasn’t good enough for someone like Danny was cut short as Danny pushed himself up on his tiptoes and across the coffee table to press his lips to Bruce’s. Bruce sighed softly into the kiss as it put sudden stop to the unwanted thoughts. Danny left his hand on Bruce’s cheek as he pulled back a little.

“Too forward?” Danny asked. His words and eyes alike were filled with nerves.

“Not at all,” Bruce said quickly. He followed his words up with a quick kiss as proof. “I am sorry about rambling like that. As I said, deeply anxious.”

“Anxious is okay. You’re aware of it. I’m not exactly a paragon of mental health either. I’ve been going to therapy since I was eighteen,” Danny said. His thumb gently stroked Bruce’s cheek. “First off, fuck the press. I can deal with it. Second off, your family is huge and wonderful and not at all something that would stop me, not unless they hated me.”

“They certainly do not hate you,” Bruce assured him.

“Third off,” Danny continued with a little smile, “I guess the anxiety, which we’ve covered. And fourth off, I am also very stubborn and have no problem telling someone to budge off if they’re being too much. So, yeah, we might have lines to find out and some of those we’d find out be crossing them and fucking up, but that’s just part of dating, isn’t it? If any of them become lines that we can’t deal with, well, we’re old enough that I would hope that we could end things maturely.”

“I have a very good track record of remaining friends with my exes, for better or worse,” Bruce said.

“Better or worse?”

“Harvey Dent, as one example.”

“Ah,” Danny said with a little nod. “I’ve heard that he’s been doing better at least?”

“That or he’s planning something big,” Bruce said with a sigh. “But I even I know I should stop talking about an ex with someone that just kissed me.”

“Generally a good rule,” Danny agreed with a little smile. “Does this mean that we’re going to try dating?”

“If I didn’t talk you out of it,” Bruce joked.

“Like I said, I’m stubborn,” Danny pointed out. “But as much as I adore them, I expect at least one dinner out with no children once my wings are gone.”

“Deal,” Bruce agreed easily and leaned down to give Danny a proper kiss.

---

AN:

I didn't plan for the kiss to happen here, but I'll take it!

[mistyjessart]

The Odyssey Modern AU: Christmas edition

For your consideration: the Odyssey but as a Hallmark Christmas movie where Odysseus travels to New York for work and is trying to get home to Hawaii?? (I needed a long domestic flight shhhhh it was either this or Vancouver to Newfoundland) in time for Christmas dinner with Penelope and Telemachus after missing it for the last 20 years straight

The Trojan War is some really big business venture or something that took literally forever for them to sign but they finally did it!!

Polyphemus keeps them after work threatening to get HR involved because they accidentally ate his lunch that he left in the fridge, Polites and some of his other coworkers get stuck there but Ody and the rest manage to escape the office

Athena is Odysseus' boss (and childhood friend) who told him to get everything done more efficiently so he could leave earlier but noooooo he didn't listen and guess who's cutting it close again

The wind bag: Aeolus (from another department, maybe distribution??) sends them home with snacks that they forget to declare and Poseidon the airport security guard sees them after Eurylochus opens the bag in the waiting area and pulls them into the security room until they miss their flight

Circe owns a local motel and wanted to kick them out because she doesn't trust so many dudes around her employees after past incidents, but her and Athena's mutual friend Hermes gives Odysseus some of her favourite tea as a peace offering and he tells her about his wife and kid and she's just like "fineeeeee okay you're a wife guy, I guess I can find you a room"

She calls them a taxi to the airport the next day and the driver Tiresias just keeps giving them ominous life advice and seems to know like... way too much about them and also they're not entirely sure he actually has his license

Odysseus gets a call from his mom like "where are you we're waiting for you" and he's like "I'm on my way home I promiseeeeeeeeee I'll be there this time"

The sirens are various sales reps at the airport

Scylla (baggage check employee) keeps some of them cuz their bags are too heavy so Ody and the rest head to the gate without them

Eurylochus brings snacks again (thinking Chicharron-style snacks, ones you're not supposed to bring on a plane) and Zeus detains them

The suitors are just the neighbourhours who bully Telemachus like "oooOOOOhhhhh ssuuuUUURrreee your dad is tOOOOtally gonna show up to Christmas this year" and making jokes about his mom

Athena (who did leave early and catch the original flight) scares them away and reassures Telemachus that his dad is on his way (while texting Odysseus "see I told you so")

She finds out Zeus is the one detaining them so she calls her dad like "please can you at least send Odysseus on his way, you literally know him, he's just a dumbass sometimes" so Zeus let's Odysseus go catch his flight but keeps the rest of them in security

Calypso is some lady he's seated next to on the plane who hits on him for the entire ten-hour flight

Poseidon, who got transferred to the other airport, recognizes Odysseus from before and pulls him into security again and Odysseus just rips into him until he lets him go

The neighbours are bullying Telemachus while he's out getting last-minute ingredients for dinner when some dude turns up and tells them off and threatens to get their parents so they all run off

Penelope's just like... "who are you and what have you done with my husband, how are you actually on time"

Insert sweet and sappy Christmas dinner with the entire family until Odysseus' sister goes "wait... where's Eurylochus?"

Eurylochus turns up at the door the next morning like "ODYSSEUS YOU MF I HAD TO CATCH ANOTHER FLIGHT-"

[jester-lover]

What if the dorm leaders had a clumsy, klutzy, forgetful, and lazy female s/o that somehow knows how to do impossible tasks (like cooking up a feast, repairing a car, play 10 different instruments, getting good grades, etc) without even trying?

Dorm Leaders with a Talented yet Lazy Girlfriend

CWs: a tinge of jealousy, fluff and a little insecurity. Fem! Reader, s/o is basically one of those overpowered anime protags lol.

Riddle

He adores you so much as his girlfriend, but Riddle can’t help but be a little jealous of you. The sheer lack of effort you put into anything and everything you do compared to the overall success you have goes against everything he was raised to believe.

Riddle might push you to be a little more studious but ends up finding it meaningless. You simply have a talent for beating people who’ve put in considerably more effort than you have.

Those miraculous acts of preparation you do, such as preparing full meals and such, come in especially handy when his dorm is in chaos before a tea party.

Seeing you whip up the tea, set the table, and paint all the roses in record time, it was like seeing a phoenix rise from the ashes. He was so bewildered he just stood there, mouth slightly agape.

The klutzy nature you display fits right in with his dorm, so he isn’t put off by it at all.

“S/O, remember you’ve got a history test today…I know you’ll do great…”

Leona

At the start of your relationship, there is a comfort the two of you have in your shared sense of calm. You’re both chill people with slow lives, living comfortably. The second he learns how effortlessly you succeed at life, though? He can’t help but be a little jealous.

Very verbally supportive, but silently fuming until he realizes just how ridiculous he’s being. Then he’s bragging about you to anyone who’s even a little curious. 

Leona’s event planning skills are…unfortunate to say the least. So whenever the two of you have guests over or are hosting some type of event, you take over. 

Clumsiness is also something he isn’t used to; lion beastmen are agile in nature, so he tends to help you in terms of holding things and overall balance. Leona insists you hand over any heavy or easily breakable object to him.

“Do you want me to carry that? Your hands are shaking again…”

Azul

You two definitely met because he deemed you an easy target for one of his contracts, only to be embarrassed and slightly enamored when you broke apart each aspect of it and tried to negotiate a better deal for yourself.

He respects how multifaceted you are, especially when it comes to your talents. Azul might even employ you to play light background music for the lounge. 

If your talents extend to sports, he’s going to beg for advice.

“So you don’t even practice or anything? And you made the team? What do you mean you’ve never played—

On the topic of grades, he gets a little freaked out. You’ve been here for like a month, and you’ve learned all of Twisted Wonderland’s history already? Are you some kind of malfunctioning robot?

Azul also doesn’t care about your lazy nature; nap around his office all you want.

Kalim

You two are quite similar in disposition and overall vibes, but when it comes to grades, you’re way better off than he is.

The amount of stress you both put Jamil in before you locked in and cleaned out that entire dorm was unbelievable. I mean, a full-course dinner that he didn’t have to make; he’s begging you to marry Kalim at this point.

He would be the type to leave you sticky notes reminding you of your tasks and goals, with little encouraging messages.

“Don’t forget you have a presentation today! How’d you do all 20 slides in ten minutes? Who cares? You’ll do great! :)”

Vil

This would be a tricky situation.

Vil believes in pushing yourself to reach your ideal goals; to sweat and tire is to prove your worth to him. So to see you basically lose at every step of the way and still win at life is unbelievable. I mean, you forget every quiz date you get and still score hundreds every single time.

Vil also appreciates your musical skills; he’ll encourage you to play complex melodies as he gets ready in the morning, waking him up for the day ahead.

His own schedule takes time from his studies, but he also scores high on everything. He thinks your grades come from a good sense of intuition.

“Schatz, how could you possibly have scored a hundred on this when you skipped all but 2 classes?”

Laziness is something he dislikes overall, but he can’t help but find you adorable when you drift off to sleep in his dorm room as opposed to getting some job done for Crowley. He likes making you feel safe.

Idia

He thinks you’re a natural good luck charm; I mean, everything you do seems to fall into place! 

Idia is also kind of lazy, so he won’t complain about your work ethic. Your clumsy nature, on the other hand, worries him because of all the one-of-a-kind tech in his room.

Once Idia finds out how good you are at, well, practically everything, he’ll get a little self-conscious. I mean, you don’t even have to try, and you just kinda win? Why stay with a shut-in like him?

You shut that down pretty quick, and he learns to just enjoy your talented self. He’s got a girlfriend; he’s already like, halfway more successful than most of his internet buddies.

Idia would adore it. If you played some type of electric instrument, like a synth or an electric guitar, he’d buy you the best one on the market just to hear some of his favorite intro songs played by you.

“S/O, how does a keytar sound? Of course, you already know how to play that.”

Malleus

Grades and all that don’t really matter to Malleus, as he’s also just naturally talented at everything, similarly to you. It's your clumsy, human nature that enchants him. Fae like him are naturally balanced, elegant, and refined; they don’t just fall over or knock things down like you have a habit of doing.

“You’ve just done what humans call ‘eating dirt,’ did you not, Beastie? Intriguing…”

The concept of laziness is also new to him; he would have fun dragging you along to your tasks and seeing the looks of shock on people’s faces as you come riding into class on the Prince of the Briar Valley’s shoulders.

Malleus is also probably trained in several instruments, and he’d love to play duets or help you acquire more rare, niche musical tools.

People who’ve been around as long as he has don’t often deem things impossible, but the shocking speed at which you managed to fix the decaying Ramshackle dorm, cook dinner each night for Grim and yourself, and deal with everyone’s problems, including your own, has him questioning if you’re human at all.

[starmaidengarden]

riddle : leona : azul : x gn!reader. no cw/tw. soft relationship headcanons. pt1!

riddle rosehearts ༉⋆｡˚

Dating Riddle Rosehearts feels like entering a loving rose garden—he is disciplined, considerate, and surprisingly affectionate once he learns to show his love.

Getting Together

completely clueless. at first, he confuses his attraction with mere admiration or frustration. he’d deny his crush for the longest time until trey or cater pointed it out. when ever they do he insists he’s " just concerned about your rule-breaking habits with the first years. "

when he finally realizes he likes you, he gets flustered over the smallest things. If you brush against his hand or compliment him, expect him to go red immediately.

his confession is formal and rehearsed—he probably paces back and forth before finally confessing.“Lately, my thoughts keep wandering back to you. Would you grant me the delightful opportunity to court you?”

In a Relationship

strict but caring: he expects you to follow the rules, but if you struggle, he’ll tutor you instead of scolding you (though he might lecture a little).

affection in private: riddle isn’t one for bold acts, but in private, he’s surprisingly soft—holding your hand, brushing your hair from your face, or even letting you rest your head on his shoulder while he reads.

tea dates: he’ll always invite you for afternoon tea. If you surprise him with a homemade tart, he might blush and mutter a flustered “thank you.”

loves studying together. he feels most comfortable expressing love through shared routines—helping you with homework, making tea for you, and ensuring you take care of yourself properly.

will correct your posture, eating habits, and etiquette—but only because he wants the best for you. If you call him out on being too strict, he’ll get embarrassed and promise to ease up.

absolutely adores it when you praise him. Tell him he’s amazing, and he’ll short-circuit before hiding his red face behind a teacup.

leona kingscholar ༉⋆｡˚

Dating Leona Kingscholar is a mix of lazy afternoons, protective gestures, and rare but deeply meaningful moments of vulnerability. He acts aloof and unbothered, but when he loves someone, it’s fierce, possessive, and completely devoted.

Getting Together

leona is slow to fall in love, but once he does, it’s obvious—at least to everyone except him. spending more time around you, teasing you—calling you “herbivore” in a smug tone of course, stealing your things to watch you get flustered and If you tease him back? he raises an eyebrow but secretly finds it really attractive. challenging you to little games just to see you pout when he wins. before he even realizes why.

subtle acts of favoritism—letting you sit next to him during lunch, giving you money whenever you need it, or scaring off people who bother you.

he doesn’t do confessions. Instead, he just starts acting like you’re his. If you call him out on it, he’ll smirk and say, “ Took you long enough. ” casual but undeniable. he just leans in close and murmurs, " You’re mine, got it? " like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

In a Relationship

super clingy—but lazy about it. He won’t actively chase after you, but the second you sit down, he’s got an arm around your waist, pulling you against him for a nap.

protective, but in a quiet way. He doesn’t hover or make a big deal out of it, He’ll glare at anyone who gets too close and say things like, " You got a problem? " but if anyone disrespects you, they’ll mysteriously stop showing up anywhere near you.

surprisingly thoughtful. acts like he doesn’t care, but he absolutely does. If he notices you are stressed or upset, he won’t ask directly, he’ll grumble about how annoying you are—while pulling you into his arms and forcing you to take a break.

prefers spending time in silence with you. He’s not one for constant talking, but if you’re quietly sitting together—maybe reading while he naps—he’s completely at peace.

azul ashengrotto ༉⋆｡˚

Dating Azul Ashengrotto is like being in a business contract that slowly turns into the most devoted and soft romance ever. He starts off as his usual smooth and calculating self, but once he genuinely falls for you, he becomes flustered, protective, and completely devoted to your happiness.

Getting Together

overthinks every interaction. he is convinced he needs to earn your affection—he’ll plan elaborate strategies to get close to you, only to flub them when you smile at him.

denial. painfully aware of his feelings, He tries to suppress his crush by treating you like a business deal—offering favors, calling you “Valued Customer,” until Jade or Floyd casually say something like, “Boss, you should just confess already.”

flirting? Oh, absolutely. He’s always throwing in charming lines like, “Ah, what a pleasure to see you again, angelfish. Are you here to make my heart race once more?” (He’s dying inside, but you don’t need to know that.)

his confession is a total mess. He plans out an elegant speech but ends up stammering, blushing. He’ll invite you to Monstro Lounge, offer you a custom-made drink, and very nervously say, “Would you be interested in signing a… I mean, um, going on a date with me?”

In a Relationship

a total gentleman. He insists on opening doors for you, pulling out your chair, and walking on the side of the road closest to traffic. It’s all very formal—at first.

surprisingly clingy. When he gets comfortable, he loves holding your hand under the table or linking pinkies when he’s feeling extra bold.

spoils you in secret. If you mention liking something, expect it to magically appear on your desk the next day. compliment a dessert at the lounge? It’s now your permanent menu item. Fancy meals, VIP treatment, and custom-made gifts.

acts smooth but is secretly flustered. He’ll brush your hand casually but will internally scream if you grab his in return. If you kiss him first? Immediate overheating.

[aimfor-theheart]

hey, i totally didn’t mean to compare your work with aot, so sorry!!

anon you’re all good!!! i didn’t take offense!! i get you were just making connections!!

[yeyinde]

Ghost has a thing for fucking you when you're asleep—

(—and maybe one day he'll get around to telling you about it, too.)

noncon/dubcon somnophilia. spit kink. brief anal.

He likes you like this. When you're soft, pliant. A malleable little doll under his hands that he can shape to his will. Bend.

You're so small compared to him. Tiny. The difference unmoors the chains keeping his vile, nasty urges at bay, until they spool—horrific and depraved—around him. Unleashes the need in the back of his head that screams, howls, and tells him to own, possess. Claim.

Ruin you—

And you belong to him. Everything. Every part of you is his, down to your goddamn marrow. Your bones are marked with his name, false starts carved into milky bones.

he doesn't really see the problem with taking what is his.

—and so, he does.

His sweet, sweet girl who can barely take his cock when you're awake—too much, too fat—and so he makes do with slaking his hideous, bestial need on your body when you're asleep. When he can fold your knees up to your ears, and fuck you as deep, as hard, as he wants without worrying about you seeing the want rotting in his eyes, and run—

The stretch, you whine. He's too much for you. The biggest you've ever had. It isn't meant to stroke his ego, he knows this, but still. He preens when you add, liquid and pained, by a considerable margin, Simon—

Like this, asleep, you're relaxed. Liquid. 

And with the sleeping pills crushed into your bedtime tea you always (always) take an hour before bed, he can do whatever he wants to do. However he wants. 

Splits you open with his tongue, fucking into you until you're sloppy and wet. Spitting on your cunt and pushing the foamy glob into your tight hole at his own leisure without having a rain of indignant fists come down across his shoulders, disgusted by the degrading action. Don't spit on me, Simon, that's gross—

(but you swallow it like a good girl when he grabs you by the neck, thumb digging into the dent of your larynx until you open nice and wide for him, tongue sliding out like you're begging for it—)

His little hellion awake. But asleep? 

He gets your pussy messy with his spit, fucking it into you with two fingers—another benefit to fucking you asleep is that he doesn't have to bother with building up, can stretch you out on two fingers without those breathy little mewls spilling out, telling him it's too much. Then three with his mouth glued to your clit, feeling your cunt clench down on him as he bullies it with his tongue. The pressure is too much, too intense. You'd be howling if you were awake, but—

You're not. 

The only sound is the lews squelch of him fucking you open with three fingers, sucking noisily at your pebbled clit. 

Music to his ears. 

And if he's in a hurry. Well. Skipping foreplay all together is fine. Just has to spit on his palm, coat it over his shaft, and make you open up for him. Splitting you open on just his cock. All tight—agonizingly so—around him. 

You can take it. 

He knows you can. You take everything he throws at you—knees pushed to your ears, cock bulging out from your belly. Head buried in a pillow as he flattens his body over yours, and ruts into your cunt while he smothers you under his bulk. Indescribably tight like this with your thighs squeezed together between his own. On your side with your leg thrown over his hip, or held high in the air. 

He likes it best when you're on your back, though. Soft and sweet. Little hiccups leaving your slack lips as he forces you to take every inch he has to offer. Bullying his fat cock into your pussy. Over and over again—

Quenching his unbearable lust on you until it's slated on your flesh, cunt stuffed full of his cum.

Or your ass. 

You're wary about him burying his fat length into your ass. It'll hurt, is the biggest excuse you like to give, hands tucked against the swell of your bottom as if that would be enough to keep him away. You've never done that before and taking him in your pussy was already a lot, you couldn't imagine taking him there, too—

It's a problem. Too bad for you, he has always been task oriented. Someone who likes the squash issues under his thumb. 

And that's exactly what he does. 

Starts with his thumb shoved inside your hole when he's fucking your pussy. Then a finger. Two. Likes to lick at your cunt before shoving your knees to your chest, lifting your ass in the air, and devouring it with the same rapacious appetite. Tongue fucking into you, getting you all sloppy and wet, stretching you open so he can seat you down on his cock. All the way to the base. Stretching your rim wide around his girth. Pounding your tight little ass until he cums inside of you. Filling you over and over again until it leaks out, soaking into the sheets below. 

His pretty little doll. All fucked out and messy. 

With you asleep, Simon can take from you—as much as he needs to fill this greedy, gaping maw inside of himself—without burdening you. Scaring you away. 

And he'd rather not have to chase you down like a dog—

It's the perfect arrangement that lets him exorcise himself of the horrible, awful, things he wants to do to you. Quench the bloodlust, the violence, that drums up in the back of his head, ugly and noxious, that leaks poison into his blood. Makes him see you torn to pieces by his enemies, wrenched away by the people who think they know what's best for you. Taken. The urge to claim you is animalistic. Primal. 

This—

This is bloodletting. It's spilling the rot from inside himself so it doesn't fester. Turn septic. Gangrenous. Eating at his tissue until his hands no longer belong to himself, but to the mercy of his monstrous need. 

It lets him ruin you, tear into you like a beast, without worrying about you running from him. Fleeing from this rapacious green he holds deep in the fibrils of his chest. Hewed into his essence, subsumed into his marrow. 

Simply put: he needs this. Just like you need him. Simon. Need him like the air you breathe—

(And sometimes, sometimes, you get this peculiar look on your face before bed. A frisson. Unease, pensive. It splits over your brows, an evanescent tremor. He thinks you might be more aware than you let on. That you know about this hideousness inside him, this putrid greed that sloshes around the edges of his eyes sometimes, trying to bleed in, trickling down over his periphery before he can stop it. 

But it dissolves into complacency before he can chisel into it, leaving nothing behind but a faint stink of stale smoke. Acrid—like doused embers. Burning his nose, his lungs—)

And when he's had his fill—stuffed that chasm inside his belly with your flesh—he cleans you up, and pulls you tight to his chest. Satiated for the time being. Falling asleep with the taste of you on his tongue, locked tight in his embrace. Tenders to your aches the next morning, as soft and supple as he can ever allow himself to be. 

There’s a place for him, he’s sure, when he lies to you, and says that you must have slept the wrong way. That maybe he was a little too hard on you the night before. And maybe if he were a better person, a better man, he might have felt some sense of guilt for it. Shame.

But instead, he coos at you and says:

It’s his fault, pet, but don’t worry he’ll take such good care of you. Licking your sore cunt all day until you grab him by the scruff of his neck, and tell him no more, please, Simon, stop, stop—it doesn’t hurt anymore, please—

He relents an hour before bed and takes you to the kitchen where you sit and drink the tea he made without a word.

Like a good girl—

And then you slip into bed in nothing but his old shirt, curling up against his chest, and whispering—soft and sweet—into his ear, "good night, Simon."

(his sweet, sweet girl.

like you're fucking begging him for it—)

[hanniebaeee]

Freckles and Brownies

Felix x fem!reader

Warnings: spicy dreams, some smut (not deep), and reader is slightly older MDNI

Genre: neighbors/friends to lovers, fluff, smut

Summary: Your sweet neighbor Felix has the biggest crush on you. You try not to give in, but he's way too irresistible.

You knew he was coming over even before you heard the knock on your door. Your apartment building had the thinnest walls in the history of thin walls - it was pathetic really.

But you liked your cute little apartment a lot - it was quiet (most of the time) and comfortable. Then there was Felix, your sweet neighbor who lived next door with his roommate, Jisung.

Felix was a joy to have around, because he was kind, considerate, and he always had a smile on his face. And he was totally obsessed with you.

He loved to bake and every time he baked, he would knock on your door, with a box of such yummy treats.

“Hey, I made extra. Thought you might like some,” he’d say, handing them over, with the softest smile on his face.

And your heart would skip a beat because, seriously, he looked like a fantasy wrapped in an apron.

Yes, you thought he was adorable. But he was your neighbor and you knew he was a few years younger, and so, adorable or not - you never crossed that line.

So, you pretended not to see the way he constantly blushed around you or the way his eyes would always linger a second too long. It was so hard, when he was right there in front of you, baking brownies or cookies every other day just so he could come and see you.

You had to draw a line. You had to.

The night was quiet, except for the soft tapping of your fingers on your keyboard as you worked. You were in bed, hair pulled into a messy bun, a mug of tea in hand, trying to meet a deadline you couldn’t ignore.

Your focus, however, was shattered by a noise from the other side of the wall. The very wall that separated your apartment from Felix’s.

At first, it was very faint. A low, muffled groan. You paused, fingers hovering over the keys, straining to listen. Maybe Felix was having another one of his late-night gaming sessions with Jisung?

Then it came again. Oh that's definitely not related to gaming.

You froze. Because that was a moan. A low, breathy moan. And it was your name.

“Y/N…”

Your stomach dropped. No way. NO WAY!

But then you heard it again. And again. His voice, soft yet clear, filtering through the paper-thin wall separating your bedroom from his. The sounds that followed were unguarded, raw, and so unbelievably... dirty.

“Oh, God, Y/N…”

Your entire body flushed with embarrassment and something else entirely. You slapped a hand over your mouth completely scandalized.

Ok, you knew he liked you, but this? He couldn’t be…was he seriously…?

You quickly shook your head as if that would help banish the thought. No. Felix was sweet and innocent and, okay, not innocent, but still.

But then came another sound. This one unmistakable the creak of a bed frame, followed by a low, guttural moan that sent your imagination spiraling to a whole new level.

“Oh, fuck,” you heard him whisper. “So good…”

Your hands shot to your headphones. It wasn’t even a choice at this point - it was pure survival. You jammed them onto your head and cranked up the volume on your playlist. There.

Not that it worked. Because no matter how loud the music, you could still hear him in your head.

You buried your face in your hands. You weren’t supposed to be hearing this. You weren’t supposed to be thinking about how Felix - sweet, blushing, brownie-baking Felix - was currently doing whatever he was doing!

---

Meanwhile, on the other side of the wall…

Felix was lost in his dream, blissfully unaware of the chaos he was causing. In his dream, you were standing in his kitchen, wearing one of those pretty sweaters he always saw you in. But this time, the fabric was slipping off one of your shoulders as you leaned over the counter, a teasing smile on your lips. Oh he could see way more than just a bit of skin.

“Do you want a taste?” you asked, holding up your fingers dripping with chocolate.

He swallowed hard, his voice barely functioning. “Y-Yeah…”

You laughed softly, dipping your fingers into your mouth, licking them clean yourself.

“You have to ask nicely, baby.” you whispered.

His dream-self didn’t hesitate. He grabbed your wrist, pulling you closer, his lips crashing into your chocolate stained ones in a kiss so desperate, so needy, it made his whole body ache.

Felix let out a deep, throaty groan, clutching his pillow tightly as his dream-self pushed you against the counter, rutting against you like his life depended on it.

He pushed his face into his pillow, his hips moving against the mattress for some friction. He snaps awake, feeling a bit disoriented, but so damn hard and needy.

“Y/N…” he whispered, his voice so deep and raw. “I need you…”

His hand slips into his sweatpants, trying to help himself out of this mess, face still pressed into his pillow.

---

You yanked off your headphones, groaning in frustration. This was ridiculous. You were a grown woman. You could handle this.

You groaned as you heard another moan followed by the creaking of his bed (more frantically), and you threw yourself back onto your bed, burying your face in your pillow to stifle the hysterical laugh bubbling up in your chest.

This was insane. Completely, utterly insane. How are you supposed to face him tomorrow? You can't, not after this.

—

The next morning, you're walking down the hallway, so fatigued and sleep deprived after you spent the whole night unable to fall asleep. You were dressed for work, your bag in one hand, your phone in the other.

And the universe decided to play the most ridiculous joke on you, because there came Felix from the opposite side - t-shirt half-tucked, hair a little messy - looking totally…spent.

You tried to act casual, but he froze when he saw you.

“Morning!” he chirped, his face lighting up when he saw you. “You’re up early!”

“Yeah, well, work, you know…”

“Are you okay? You look kind of flustered.” Felix tilted his head, studying you.

“I’m fine!” you blurted, far too quickly.

“Are you sure? You seem a little... tense.” he said, and you narrowed your eyes at him.

Oh no, he wasn't doing this right now.

“Did you sleep well last night, Felix?” you asked, crossing your arms against your chest.

Felix blinked, a faint blush creeping up his neck as he said, “Uh... yeah. Why?”

You smiled sweetly, your tone laced with barely concealed mischief.

“Oh, no reason. You just seemed... very well-rested.”

Felix’s eyes widened, the realization hitting him rather mercilessly. “Oh my God.”

You raised an eyebrow, trying not to laugh at the poor boy.

“What's wrong?” you asked, and he turned bright red, his hands flying to cover his face.

“I- I didn’t - how did you - oh my God!”

You patted his shoulder, thoroughly enjoying his meltdown and said, “Don’t worry, Lixie. Your secret’s safe with me.”

And with that, you walked away, leaving Felix a stuttering, blushing mess in the hallway.

Felix tried. He really did. After the mortifying revelation that you’d heard him, he swore to himself he’d keep his cool. He was a man, and he was going to act like it. Mature. Collected. Cool.

But every time he saw you, his resolve crumbled like one of his cookies.

You’d stopped by to return the Tupperware he’d given you last week (filled with brownies he’d baked as yet another excuse to see you). You were dressed casually in yoga pants and an oversized sweatshirt, your hair tied back, but Felix could hardly keep his composure.

“Thanks again for the brownies,” you said, handing him the container with a smile. “They were great. As always.”

His heart did a full somersault at your praise. He took the container, his fingers brushing yours, and you swore you felt him shiver.

“Oh, uh, yeah,” he stammered, cheeks dusted pink. “Anytime.”

He looked into the box that was definitely not empty, and saw that was indeed full.

“I made some lasagna, we never return empty containers,” you said with a wink and Felix blushed as he smiled.

“Thank you, Y/N.” He said, “Um, -”

A silence stretched between you two, broken only when Jisung called from inside, “Felix! Are you flirting with her again?!”

Your eyes went wide and Felix choked, turning toward the door.

“I’m not - she’s not - shut up, Jisung!” he growled and you laughed, as Felix turned back to you, now red as a tomato.

“Anyway,” you said quickly, backing toward your apartment, “I’ve gotta go.”

“Yeah, of course!” Felix said, nodding too quickly. “See you later?”

“Sure,”

---

“I don’t know what to do,” you groaned, stirring your latte, as your best friend, Jennie eyed you with a smirk. “He’s so… sweet. And attractive. And every time I see him, I feel like I’m losing my mind.”

Jennie raised an eyebrow, sipping her Americano and said, “So, I don't see the problem?”

“The problem,” you emphasized, “is that he’s younger than me. What if he regrets it later?"

Jennie snorted.

“Oh, please. What's a couple of years have to do with anything? He’s an adult. He can vote, drive, drink - he's a big boy, Y/N. Stop making excuses.”

“It’s not just the age thing,” you protested. “We're neighbors. It’s messy. If it doesn't work out, I'd have to move and then-”

“Babe, he's hot,” Jennie added, waggling her eyebrows. “Come on, Y/N. The guy clearly worships you. I bet he’d walk barefoot through a field of Legos if you asked him to.”

“Jen-”

“Look,” she interrupted, leaning forward with a smirk, “I get it. You’re scared. But life’s short. If you want him, go for it.”

You groaned, dropping your head into your hands. Jennie was the worst. But she was also… not entirely wrong.

---

For Felix, this was a whole crisis.

No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t stop thinking about you. The way you smiled, the way you smelled when you leaned in just a little too close. It was driving him insane.

Jisung, of course, noticed his nonstop thirsting.

“Dude,” Jisung said, tossing the controller onto the couch as Felix stared blankly at his laptop. “What are you doing?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Felix muttered, though the pink tint to his ears gave him away.

“Oh, come on,” Jisung groaned. “It’s been, what, six months? You’re salivating every time she walks by.”

“She’s… amazing, ok? And perfect. And…” He trailed off, sighing deeply. “She’d never go for someone like me.”

“Why not?” Jisung asked, genuinely curious.

“Because she’s…her,” Felix said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “She's beautiful, and successful. And-”

“And so into you,” Jisung interrupted. “I’ve seen the way she looks at you. Trust me, she’s interested.”

Felix shook his head, his heart aching. He wanted to believe it, but every time he got close to you, he felt like you were slipping through his fingers.

That night, as you lay in bed, your mind wandered back to Felix. To his soft voice, his shy smile, and the way he looked at you like you were his entire world.

You groaned, rolling onto your side. This was ridiculous. Jennie’s words echoed in your mind, Life’s short. If you want him, go for it.

You shook your head, trying to push the thought away. But then you heard it - the doorbell.

You sat up, heart racing. It was almost midnight. You slipped out of bed and walked to your door. You heard the bell again, and this time, Felix’s voice with it.

“Y/N?” Felix’s voice was soft but urgent. “It’s me.”

You opened the door quickly to find Felix standing there, looking equal parts nervous and determined.

“Felix, is everything ok?”

“I can’t stop thinking about you,” he blurted out, his freckles stark against his flushed cheeks. “I know this is crazy, and I know I probably don’t have a chance, but… I had to tell you. Because it’s driving me crazy. You’re driving me crazy.”

You stared at him, your heart pounding so loudly you were sure he could hear it.

“Felix, I -”

“I don't know what to do,” he continued, his voice trembling. “But I need you to know. I’m completely, hopelessly in love with you.”

—---

The clock on your nightstand read 2:47 AM. You’d been lying in bed for hours, unable to sleep, your head spinning.

Felix’s confession played on repeat in your head.

I’m completely, hopelessly in love with you.

The words had shattered something inside you. You’d wanted to say something, anything, but all you’d managed was a stunned silence - staring at him with your mouth open, that he gave you a rushed goodnight. And bolted.

Since then, you’d been teetering on the edge of panic and longing. You didn't say anything. Anything at all. And seeing the disappointment in those big beautiful eyes of his, seeing his face crumble with sadness at your silence was absolutely heartbreaking.

You turned onto your side, facing the wall you shared with Felix. Your heart ached, the weight of unspoken feelings pressing down on your chest. He was right there, so close, yet you couldn’t bring yourself to bridge the gap.

---

Felix lay on his back, staring at the ceiling, his hands gripping the sheets like they were the only things tethering him to reality.

He had spilled his heart to you, thinking it would work. And now? Now it felt like his heart was breaking into a thousand pieces.

You hadn’t said anything. Not a single word to give him hope or closure. He tried to convince himself you were just processing, that you weren’t rejecting him - but the silence was the most painful thing he'd ever had to endure.

His gaze drifted to the wall separating his room from yours. And his mind, traitorous as always, began to wander. He imagined you on the other side, lying in your bed, the soft curve of your lips, the way your eyes would flutter shut if he kissed you.

His fantasies were vivid, and utterly maddening.

“Fuck,” he muttered, running a hand through his hair. He wanted you so badly it hurt. But more than that, he wanted you to want him.

He felt like he was suffocating.

---

You couldn't take it anymore. It felt way too claustrophobic in your room. You sat up, your heart racing and climbed out of bed and padded to your door.

You needed some air.

---

The sound of your door opening reached him, and his heart leapt into his throat. He scrambled out of bed, throwing on a hoodie as he moved to his own door.

He opened his door and walked straight into you.

“Y/N,” he breathed, after his body clashed with yours, and his voice was so husky and breathless.

“I…” You hesitated, looking equally breathless and surprised. “I couldn’t sleep.”

Felix stepped closer, his gaze searching yours. “Me neither.”

You bit your lip, your chest heaving with the stress of it all.

“Felix, about what you said earlier…” you began.

His throat bobbed as he swallowed, his hands curling into fists at his sides.

“I meant it. Every word.” he whispered.

“I know,” you whispered, your voice trembling. “And I…”

Before you could finish, Felix closed the distance between you, his hands coming up to cradle your face. His touch was gentle, and you both had a moment, staring at each other, absolutely terrified.

You didn't know who moved first, but here you two were, kissing. A kiss so soft at first, then deepening as months of pent-up desire spilled over. His fingers tangled in your hair, pulling you closer as his lips moved against yours with a desperation that reflected your own.

Your back hit the wall and he tilted his head, licking into your mouth, and it was so absolutely hot.

When you finally pulled away from Felix, your lips still tingled from the kiss, and your heart pounded so hard.

Felix’s eyes were wide, his cheeks flushed a deep red. He looked absolutely stunned, his lips parted as if to say something, but no words came out.

Oh no, why wasn't he saying anything?!

“I…” you began, but the words got stuck in your throat.

What could you even say?

“I’m sorry,” Felix whispered, his voice strained. He took a step back, running a hand through his hair, clearly panicking.

“No, no, I’m sorry,” you blurted, hugging your arms around yourself, feeling exposed in the oversized sweater you’d thrown on before bed. It barely skimmed your thighs, and now you were hyper-aware of how Felix’s eyes kept darting to your legs before snapping back up to your face.

Felix’s jaw tightened, and he let out a shaky breath.

“I…I should go.” he murmured and before you could stop him, he turned and sprinted back into his apartment, leaving you standing there.

—

The moment Felix shut the door to his apartment, he leaned against it.

“Shit,” he whispered, his eyes closed and voice trembling.

He wanted to scream. Or throw himself off a cliff. Because right now, all he could think about was the way you tasted, the way you looked in that damn sweater. The way you looked so… thrown after the kiss.

Groaning, he went to his bedroom and fell onto his bed, burying his face in his pillow. He was turned on beyond belief, but the guilt was just as strong.

That kiss, though perfect, felt impulsive and reckless. And now? He had no idea where you two stood.

---

By the time the sun came up, Felix was in full-on stress-baking mode.

His kitchen was a disaster - half empty bags of flour, bowls and utensils littered every surface, and his oven was working overtime. He’d already made two trays of brownies, cookies, and a batch of cupcakes, and he was still going.

Because every time he paused, every time he let himself think, his mind betrayed him. That damn kiss was playing on repeat in his head.

He threw himself back into baking, hoping it would distract him. But it didn’t work. His fantasies just grew wilder.

“Stop it,” Felix hissed to himself, slamming the oven door shut.

But the damage was done. He was a mess.

---

By the time Jisung woke up (close to noon) and stumbled into the kitchen, Felix was pulling yet another tray of cookies out of the oven.

“What the hell happened here?” Jisung asked, blinking at the mountain of baked goods that had taken over their apartment. “Did you open a bakery while I was asleep?”

Felix shot him a glare and said, “Don’t start.”

Jisung raised his hands in surrender, though he did ask, “Rough night?”

Felix didn’t answer, instead focusing on packing some of the cookies into containers.

Jisung leaned against the counter, smirking. “This is obviously about Y/N.”

Felix froze for a second.

“I knew it,” Jisung said, grinning. “Care to share what happened?”

Felix’s ears turned bright red as he shook his head.

“I’m not talking about it,” he said.

“Okay, fine,” Jisung said, grabbing a cookie. “But, for what it’s worth, you should tell her how you’re feeling. Like, really tell her.”

Felix sighed, his shoulders slumping.

“I already did.” he said sadly.

Jisung blinked in surprise. “And?”

“She didn’t say anything.” Felix’s voice was quiet, almost defeated. “And then…and then…never mind.”

---

The moment you stepped into the hallway after a long day at work, you were hit with the mouthwatering aroma of chocolate and vanilla.

You paused, inhaling deeply. Felix was baking again.

You’d just changed into your pyjamas when there was a knock at your door. Opening it, you weren’t surprised to find Felix standing there, holding four containers of baked goods in his hands.

He looked kind of disheveled and his expression was tight - like he was barely holding it together.

“Felix,” you started, but he thrust the containers into your hands before you could say more.

“What’s all this?” you asked, looking down at the overflowing assortment of brownies, cookies, and cupcakes.

Felix let out a laugh - a sharp and humorless one.

“It’s your fault,” he said and your eyebrows shot up.

“My fault?” you asked.

“Yes,” he said, running a hand through his hair. “Because I can’t stop thinking about how you didn't say a word after I admitted my feelings for you. And then we kiss, and you don't say anything even then.”

Your lips parted, words failing you as he continued.

“It hurts. My heart hurts, and if I sit still I feel like I'm gonna faint. So yeah, I've been baking nonstop for hours now. You can eat them, throw them out, whatever you want. I just…I needed to get them out of my kitchen before I baked myself into oblivion.”

You sighed, setting the containers down on a nearby table. “Felix -”

“No,” he interrupted, shaking his head and taking a step back. “Don’t.”

“What? At least-”

“I have to go, or I'll end up doing something really stupid.”

And before you could stop him, he turned and walked away, leaving you standing there with all his baked treats and a heart that felt like it was breaking.

Felix was spiraling.

For days, he’d been avoiding you as much as possible. He hated it. He hated having to speed walk past you or ignoring you. He couldn't stop craving you, and all through his heartache, he still missed you.

And he still couldn’t stop himself from baking for you. It was the only way he knew to show how much he cared without risking saying or doing something that might ruin everything further.

The knock on your door came as you were finishing dinner. You opened it to find Felix standing there, looking as nervous as ever, holding a box of brownies.

“Hi,” he said, his voice soft.

“Hi, Felix,” you said, crossing your arms and leaning against the doorframe.

“I made these for you.” he said, holding the box out to you, his hands trembling slightly.

You took the box, your eyes narrowing slightly.

“Thanks, but -” Before you could finish, he turned and started to walk away.

“Felix!” you called after him, but he didn’t stop.

Something inside you snapped. You couldn’t take it anymore.

“Felix!” you yelled again, quickly placing the box on the ground and grabbing the back of his hoodie, tugging him to a stop.

He sighed, his shoulders slumping as he turned halfway to look at you.

“Please don’t do this to me, Y/N,” he said, his voice low. “I’m trying so hard to hold it together.”

“Well, stop,” you said firmly, pulling him back toward your apartment, your grip on his hoodie strong.

“Y/N,” he protested, stumbling slightly as you dragged him inside. “You don’t get it!”

“Shut up, Felix,” you snapped, cutting him off as you slammed the door behind you.

He blinked at you, startled, his mouth opening to say something else, but you didn’t give him the chance.

“I like you, okay?” you yelled, your voice rising. “I like you back, Felix! I’ve been trying to hold it in, trying to be reasonable because this whole thing is complicated and I didn’t want to make it weird, but I can’t take it anymore! You’ve been driving me mad with all your running and your baking and your stupid perfect face, so just - just shut up and kiss me already!”

For a moment, Felix just stared at you, his eyes wide, his lips parted in shock.

“You… what?” he whispered, as if he couldn’t believe his ears.

“I said I like you,” you repeated, your chest heaving. “Now are you going to kiss me or not?”

In an instant, he closed the space between you, his hands cupping your face as he crashed his lips against yours.

The kiss was desperate, frantic even, and you responded with just as much intensity, your hands fisting in the front of his hoodie to pull him closer.

Felix’s lips were soft but insistent, his hands shaking slightly as they slid from your face to your waist, pulling you flush against him.

When you finally pulled away, both of you were gasping for air, trembling and flushed.

“Do you have any idea how long I’ve wanted to do that?” Felix whispered, his voice rough and shaky.

You smiled, brushing a strand of hair out of his face and said, “Probably as long as I have.”

He let out a soft laugh, his eyes shining with something you could only describe as pure joy.

And he kissed you over and over, until the world outside faded away, leaving only the two of you and the undeniable connection you felt with each other.

Dating Felix felt like stepping into a dream.

From the moment you both decided to give it a go, it was as if everything clicked into place. Now, you were greeted with the soft press of his lips whenever he saw you and even softer smiles that melted your insides.

He was so attentive, and so utterly devoted. And more perfect than you'd ever thought a person could be. He stayed over at yours a lot, and you kept him company whenever you could over at his. And it was absolutely magical.

Oh and he taught you how to bake. Or at least he tried.

---

Felix’s kitchen was a mess as usual, all his baking things spread everywhere. His sleeves were rolled up and his hair pushed back with a bandana.

You were perched on the kitchen counter, dressed in that sweater - the oversized one he loved so much, the one that barely skimmed the tops of your thighs. Your hair was loose, your smile teasing, and you looked like you'd walked straight out of his dream.

Felix swallowed hard, as he tried not to look at you. But when he did, he saw you leaning forward slightly, resting your chin in your hand.

“What’s next, Chef Lee?” you asked, nodding toward the bowl of brownie batter.

Felix cleared his throat, trying to gather himself.

“Uh, okay. So, once we mix the dry ingredients…”

His voice trailed off as you dipped your finger into the batter, scooping up a bit and popping it into your mouth.

The sound you made - a soft hum of approval - almost made him drop the bowl.

“Mmm,” you said, licking your finger clean. “That’s so good.”

Felix’s jaw clenched, his hands gripping the edge of the bowl to keep himself steady.

“Baby,” he said, his voice strained.

“What?” you asked, your eyes wide with mock innocence.

“You’re not… helping,” he managed, his gaze slipping down to your thighs.

You tilted your head, a playful smile tugging at your lips as you said, “I’m not?”

“No,” he said, setting the bowl down and taking a step closer to you.

“What am I doing, then?” you teased, tapping his bottom lip with your finger.

Felix caught your wrist, his grip firm but gentle.

“You’re being a bad girl,” he murmured, his voice rough with desire.

Your breath hitched as he stepped between your legs, his hands sliding over your thighs.

“What do you want, baby?” he asked, his fingers tightening on your skin.

You smirked, leaning in just enough for your lips to brush against his.

“I want you.”

That was all it took.

Felix kissed you like he was starving, his hands running over your thighs as he pressed you closer. He tasted of chocolate and something so uniquely him, and you honestly couldn't get enough.

His lips moved to your neck, his breath hot against your skin. He pushed the fabric off your shoulder, kissing all your exposed skin, groaning as you thread your fingers through his hair and tugged lightly.

He pushed you back against the wall, his hands reaching under your sweater and pulling down your panties quickly. You gasped as he quickly bent down and threw your legs over his shoulders.

Your breath caught as he kissed your inner thighs and went on to give you the most mind blowing orgasm of your life.

The bowl of brownie batter sat forgotten on the counter as he devoured you. Your fingers were in his hair, his bandana long lost and followed by his shirt and a lot more.

You sat on the counter, grinning smugly, your legs swinging lazily as you watched him, shirtless and glowing, trying to salvage the brownies he had abandoned earlier.

Felix glanced at you, his freckled cheeks still tinged pink, and smirked. He just lived his fantasy. And you were glowing, and it filled his heart to see you like that.

“The brownies, Lixie,” You reminded him as he lost focus, and was lost in thought, his eyes fixed on you.

He was about to reply when the front door opened, and Jisung walked in.

“Felix -” Jisung stopped mid-sentence as he walked into the kitchen, his eyes darting between you, perched on the counter, and Felix, standing there shirtless with a tray of brownies in hand.

There was a long, awkward pause as Jisung's eyes fell on Felix’s shirt lying on the floor. And obviously both of you looked enough ruffled for anyone to catch up.

“Oh my god,” Jisung finally said, his face scrunching up in horror. “Ew! Not in the kitchen!”

You burst into laughter, your hands flying to your mouth, while Felix just shook his head.

“Nothing happened here!” Felix insisted, though the sheepish grin tugging at his lips wasn’t helping his case.

Jisung pointed an accusing finger at his shirt lying on the floor.

“Don’t lie to me! There’s literally evidence of your sins everywhere!” he said.

“Jisung, I swear -”

“Save it!” Jisung cut him off dramatically, turning to leave. “I’m never eating anything that comes out of this kitchen again!”

You couldn’t stop giggling as Felix turned to you.

“Babe,” he muttered, though he couldn't help but smile.

“I’m sorry,” you said, trying to sound sincere but failing miserably.

Felix rolled his eyes, setting the tray down before stepping closer again.

“You’re lucky I love you,” he said, teasingly.

“Lucky, huh?” you said, looping your arms around his neck.

He leaned in, brushing his lips against yours as he said, “Very lucky.”

“I CAN HEAR YOU!” Jisung’s voice rang out from his bedroom.

You both burst out into giggles, and you kissed him again.

“I love you, Lixie.”

“I love you, baby.”

Tags: @moonchild9350 @velvetmoonlght

[retiredteabag]

Wishful Thinking - chapter 5

arranged marriage Nanami with a people-pleasing reader

last chapter - next chapter - series masterlist

You had gone to bed that night expecting the man by your side to inadvertently keep you awake. Only a few feet from you, you couldn't help focusing on his breathing. Consciously aware of his presence.

Memories of the first night at your shared home filled you with embarrassment as you had pulled on a comfortable fleece pajama set that evening.

Nanami changed in the bedroom whilst you were calming yourself in the bathroom; and when you came back to your bed, he was sat up on his mattress in a crewneck and a loose pair of pants. Just the sight to him brought reminders of when he had come into the master bedroom that first night after the ceremony.

You flush at the memory once more. Turning to crawl into bed, he told you about some ideas for your first day in Kuala Lumpur. You knew, of course, that he was looking for you to choose the excursion yourself. Something you were not looking forward to.

You were just able to slip out of that responsibility by feigning tiredness. He crossed his arms in a way that definitely was not supposed to catch your attention, but it most certainly did, and gave you a disbelieving look.

"I'm sure you'll be ready in the morning after a good night's sleep." He raised a brow.

"Surly." You drag out the word, though you weren't sure at all which option he would prefer you pick. And that aside, you had no intention of getting any restful sleep with him so close to you anyway.

Despite this, the subtle rattling of the train lulled you into sleep far quicker than you would've expected, and when morning came, you felt more rested than you had in months.

When you turned to sit up, you saw that Nanami was already awake, his back was against his headboard, a book in his hand. He looked over at you and smiled.

Nanami appeared so large in the twin bed. It was an interesting image to see once you've woken up. A kettle was placed on the table between your mattresses and he pulled out a saucer for you as you rubbed your eyes.

"We'll arrive at the capital in about two hours."

My God. His voice...

You cleared your throat, "Thank you." and reached for the teacup he had passed you to pour a drink into it.

As comfortable as you were beginning to grow with the man, there was still a sense of awkwardness mingling within the air. You decided not to waste any time and tiptoed to the bathroom with your tea.

Once you arrived, you almost smacked yourself with grief. The pajamas, the hair, you looked...well... you looked like you had just woken up.

Who cares? You thought for a moment. Your appearance was not really of any consequence; there wasn't a reason to feel ashamed. especially since Nanami was just a legally bonded...friend? But you couldn't help but feel frustrated at how put together he looked in the morning.

You turn on the sink and sigh.

--

What you did not see was that Nanami Kento had arisen hours before you had. He tried to go back to sleep when he noticed your form cuddled up with a pillow. He even had tried closing his eyes and matching your breathing, but it was all too much for him.

He was too aware now of the other presence by his side and knew he would not be able to dispel that knowledge from his brain. So he arose and massaged the back of his neck, busying himself with a brochure of Malaysia, averting his eyes to the curtains where peeks of sunlight occasionally lapped in through the passing trees.

He checked his watch and decided he might grab some breakfast for you both. He made his bed and wondered if you would enjoy breakfast in bed or if you were of the opinion that it was messy. After some consideration, he figured you wouldn't tell him either way.

When he arrived back at the bedroom suite door, he felt a wave of anxiety, wondering if you would be awake by his return. After some inspection, however, you had hardly moved. It was still early morning.

He settled the tray on the bedside table and went to go groom his appearance. Truth be told, he was altogether glad you had not awoken to see him before he was ready for you to.

When he came back to the bedroom, he oscillated awkwardly between pretending to be asleep again and pulling out a book he had packed. There was a small part of him that thought it might be disingenuous to pretend so he settled himself back in bed and tried to read.

And repeated the same page over and over.

When he saw you stretching beneath the sheets, he sat up, straightened his sweatshirt and slowed his breathing.

You were unbearably cute when you awoke.

How unfair.

--

The train had not arrived in Kuala Lamper for longer than a quarter of an hour before you and Nanami were dressed and ready to spend a day out in the city.

In your youth, you had not been given the opportunity to see the world. Your life before these moments had been confined to your clan estate and the Kyoto School. There was a thrilling warmth carried within you as you strode out of the station with your husband in toe. But do not be mistaken, the lead-up to this exciting moment was exactly as pleasant as you had anticipated it being the night prior.

That was to say, not at all.

The two of you had been sharing breakfast, still in the quiet of the morning, after a few moments of silence and standard eye contact you would laugh and look back to your lap.

He would grin and continue to eat, only before you would look at him once more and giggle.

Turning to you he joined along, "What? What is it?"

"This is just so ridiculous!" You laughed. "I can't believe this is happening."

He seemed confused, but smiled nonetheless, "It is strange to think...we're on our honeymoon." He shrugged a shoulder at you.

You hadn't even been thinking about that. Only that you were going to experience the world for the first time, and that waking up next to, eating breakfast alongside, and sharing silence together was so intimate. You hardly knew this man, but he was wholly yours.

Is that not a strange notion? He was your closest confidant, a gentlemanly friend. Another human legally bound to you.

And he was right, this was your honeymoon.

But you don't want to alter this moment, so you just grin a little more and try to take a sip of your tea.

After some time, you could tell by the shifting of his posture that he was subtly attempting to gain your attention. Looking your way, setting down his cup, and finally, leaning back, arms crossed.

No longer interested in identifying his body language from your periphery, you turned to look at him. Between his right thumb and forefinger was the brochure from the previous night. He was tilting it every which way between his fingers, the thin paper bending, making its way toward you.

"The scenery is... lovely!" You pointed out, turning to the window.

"A fine try." He chuckled and handed you the pamphlet.

You picked it from the space between you and used it to cover your face. "Must we do this?"

"We must." He closed his eyes dramatically as if he really were sad to say it.

"I think I would have a much better time if we just randomized our options..." You knew it was silly, but you couldn't help the all-encompassing fear that you might want to do something that perhaps he held no interest in. And thereby ruin his vacation, his honeymoon. The fear that you might waste his time.

"I'm afraid that's not one of your options." He whispered.

You only gave him an unamused look and skimmed over the leaflet.

A Tour of Batu Caves, Waterfalls, and Hot Springs Genting Highlands Day Trip with Skyway Cable Car Culinary Travel Tour Historical Sights Day Tour Private Excursion of Elephant Sanctuary

You were starting to get overwhelmed by all the options. You knew you would be visiting the beach on the last day of the trip, so perhaps he wouldn't want to go to the hot springs as well.

Or maybe he was a water-loving guy? You weren't sure, how would you know? The cable car seemed to be a nice option as well, the pictures included in the catalog depicted lush greenery and gorgeous views.

But it was a day trip... what if he became tired of the travel? Or worse, what if he was scared of heights and hated the entire thing?

It seemed that he hadn't taken his eyes from you since handing over the brochure. He would look at you over the rim of his teacup while you read over your options before he spoke up next to you, all low and quiet.

"I would love any of these options, just so you're sure." He tilted his cup to you in a greeting gesture but his words did nothing to ease the torture of your decision.

The pause continued as you mulled over the options, he seemed like the type to enjoy classic tourism, perhaps he would like to witness the historical sights.

"And if there was an option I really didn't like," He came in close, just then, almost looking over at the paper. "I would tell you. As I would hope you to do." You could feel the warmth of his skin although he never touched you.

Stumbling over the suddenness of the electric shock his nearness gave you, you pulled away and quickly spoke, "Do you like cooking?"

He didn't respond immediately, holding eye contact for quite a while before he smirked, "I would love," he emphasized, "any of these options." Running his finger up the pack of the sheet in your hands, he continued, "Didn't I just tell you as much?"

You yanked the paper back, "I was just checking."

He lifted a brow, teasing, "Would you like that? The Culinary Class? Is that something that interests you?"

You consider it a moment. You had seen Nanami in the kitchen, he enjoyed food and preparing meals. And you certainly liked the idea of a hands-on cooking class. Having been kicked from the estate kitchens any time you had wandered into them as a child. The maids would bring you treats every so often but you always wanted to help them.

"I think it's a good option." You smiled. Hoping that would be enough. Hoping he would sway himself one way or the other with words such as 'I would pick that too.' or 'I'm not so interested.'

But of course, he would never say those things. He liked making your life more challenging. So, ever the patient man, he lifted his ankle over to his other knee and shifted to face you completely. "It is. Is that the option you prefer? Or is it just a good option?"

Wasn't calling it so confirmation enough? Even just stating, 'I want this' or 'I like that' felt so unnatural to you. Making a preference known seemed almost exclusionary to your husband. But he did not seem to view it that way.

"Well?" Still smiling, he clinked his empty teacup to the saucer with a look that said 'I can wait you out all day if that's what you'd like.'

You sat up straight and steeled yourself. "It is." You nod, "The option I-I like best."

With a swiftness you had not yet seen from the man, he came close to your face, plucked the pamphlet from you, and hummed. "Very good."

He stood to his full height and reached to put on his watch. "Don't worry about anything else now." He grabbed the teapot and platter to set outside the bedroom door for the stewardess. "I'll work out all the other details."

--

And work out the other details, he did. Nanami did not lie when he told you that the hard part was over. He arranged everything, the transportation, the schedule, and of course, the payment. He even helped you put on your apron when the two of you arrived at your destination.

The kitchen structure was pristine, with a dozen stations lined up in rows. Fresh ingredients were decadently laid out for you on racks that you passed by to enter the kitchen. Gloves and pinafores were set aside at your disposal.

Several people from other groups would be joining the two of you, they included a group of friends on break together, a family of four interested in a cooking lesson, and another couple who were on their ten-year anniversary.

Each member introduced themselves to the chef and everyone began getting to know one another as you all washed your hands. Your husband had taken the liberty to grab a pair of aprons for you both and once you began drying off your hands, he grabbed the trash that the paper towels had left and started to tie the pinafore around your neck.

He could not see his hands at work but he made a conscious effort to not pull your hair, gently tucking the strands into a comfortable knot.

"This isn't too tight, is it?"

You had long since looked away from the man directly before you, his stature made for an intimidating visual and as you stared at your station's sink you swallowed and hummed out, "No, it's alright." He had stepped back and you immediately felt yourself reach up to touch at the simple tie he had left there. "Here," You came forward, "let me get yours."

Nanami laughed, "Not quite." And with the lightest of touches to your wrist, he turned you slightly to the side so he might tie your waist.

It was not an unusual sensation. In fact, you were quite accustomed to being dressed by someone other than yourself, but there was something different about this, something so tender. He patted the small of your back softly before circling to your front and asking for your assistance.

Your heart thumped and you fiddled with the strips of fabric, knotting it loosely at his back. You wondered if this was something you would do for a friend that would result in such a bodily response, and if it was, why did you feel so giddy at the action?

--

The culinary class was intended to take up several hours. You would be preparing a meal together with the instruction of a professional chef. To start, you would make ready your Roti Canai, a popular flatbread dish. And while the dough rested, you would put together your Kari Ayam, a simple chicken curry.

You had been somewhat nervous as the class was getting started, but as everyone went in a circle, introducing themselves, there began to grow a sort of camaraderie within your group. It was easy to converse as you collected your mise en place from the stocked shelves that surrounded the room.

You had just begun the process of combining the ingredients for your unleavened bread when Nanami came around the corner of an inventory shelf with some garlic, shallots, and chilis in hand for your curry. He was laughing at the joke of another man across the kitchen. The man made a pointing motion at Nanami and seemed to be asking for one of the peppers. Nanami tossed it to him with ease.

When he turned to see you, he settled his ingredients on the counter and came around behind you.

You felt so unsure in every aspect of life, even something as simple as breadmaking, but Nanami seemed so well adjusted, he was steady as his hands came around to mimic yours, kneading the dough you had been working on.

"This looks good." he was grinning, you couldn't see his face but you knew anyway. He spoke up suddenly, "Our's will be much better than that man's." He nodded to the gentleman from before and you all laughed. The chef even circled around and praised your sections of dough as they proofed on the counter.

Nanami turned to look at you, a smile on his face as he raised a brow in response to the praise. It was fun.

Nanami insisted on weighing out the ingredients for you and settling each of them in their own bowl. You had tried to tell him that he didn't have to go to the trouble but he simply waved you off.

Eventually, he even began to assemble the spice paste. With the respite between dishes, you felt as though he was pulling more weight than you were. Though it was true he was not clan-born, it was something of an embarrassment that your husband was doing what felt to you as all the work

Sheepish, you tried to pull the bowl from him, "I can do that-" but he kept a finger looped on the side, tugging it back, "there's really no need-" you tried again.

"If you keep saying that, I'll get the impression that you don't like my company very much." He whispered, turning to you now.

He steadied himself a moment before laughing and gently brushing some flour off of your cheekbone. And there was that erratic thumping again.

You laugh at his comment but it wasn't out of discomfort or a desire to change the discussion, no, this was the type of laugh that caused you to feel silly and included. Like you once had during your time in school.

While the dough rested on the counter, and the curry simmered, the chef re-entered the kitchen with a treat. Ais Kacang, or shaved ice was offered to the class in little glass bowls. He encouraged you all to sit and enjoy a break.

You all decided to pull away from the kitchen stations and opted to sit in the foyer of the building. Sitting next to you on the left was the man and wife who were on their anniversary trip. The man was the one whom Nanami had been joking with before. The man's wife bent forward to look over at you,

"So, you're here on your honeymoon?" She asked.

You set the dessert in your lap for a moment and smiled pleasantly, "That's right." Shifting the conversation to her you ask, "And you mentioned before this was your ten-year anniversary?"

The woman's husband swung his arm over her shoulders and kissed her cheek, "Yup! Can hardly believe it." It was clear that he was head over heels for the woman, and even though she huffed in annoyance, anyone could see it was pretend.

His wife pushed his chest back good-naturedly, and laughed, "That must be exciting. I remember hardly being able to wait for my honeymoon."

Your smile never wavered, but you considered how your circumstances were likely very different from her own. Before you could respond, the man reached a hand behind you to your right and tapped Nanami on his shoulder. "So, when did you know?"

Not privy to the conversation at hand, Nanami pulled the spoon from his mouth and made a questioning, "hmm?" sound, looking down at you for direction.

The woman turned to you again, rolling her eyes. "He loves to ask this question," She shifted her neck to glance at him, "I think it's because we both took so long to realize we were in love."

You wanted to ask her for more details but the man was already booping his wife's nose. "Noooo, if I remember correctly, and I always do, it was you who was completely oblivious to my pining." He turns to you and Nanami, shaking a faux-sullen face, "Very sad."

You all laugh and he squared Nanami once more, "So, when was it? When did you know she was the one?"

Your laugh falls short and suddenly you're a bit sick to your stomach. They were so romantic together, so natural. They were real. And there was nothing to even say about your proposal because it had all been manufactured. You were just about to interject something to deter the conversation, a muted, "Oh-" coming out when,

"The moment I met her."

You turn to him, befuddled by the ease with which he spoke. You expected to share a moment with him, a silent embarrassed glace but Nanami just smiled at you, not in a teasing way, he was always so very genuine.

The couple made cute little "aweeeee~~" sounds but you were focused on Nanami.

The thudding resounded evermore and you were grateful when you could stand, brushing off imaginary dust as the chef announced it was time to prepare for the plating.

--

The sun shone brightly into midday as you walked the busy city streets.

"Our first meal together..." Nanami sighed contentedly, looking your way.

You consider him, "That wasn't our first meal together?" you say, squinting up at him. He had pulled you slightly away from the bustling pavement, walking on the curbside of the street now.

"Maybe not..." He looked thoughtful, "But that was the first meal we actually made together."

You think about it, he was right, and although it seemed silly, it had been nice to enjoy something the two of you had made. The sun was bright and you turned away from him to speak, "It was delicious, and now I'll be able to make it once we're back." You had almost said 'home' but the word seemed too familiar, romantic even. What a silly notion.

A hand came up to your face, and you flinched back for a moment only to find that Nanami was simply blocking the sun from your face.

"I had a wonderful time with you. I'll have to make an effort to remember all those ingredients."

As you came closer and closer to the tracks where the station lay, Nanami checked his watch. You had some time left before dinner would be served and you were not all too hungry after such a fulfilling meal.

He suggested shopping, and although there was not a thing you could have asked for, you would never turn down the request of company. Surprisingly enough, Nanami didn't ask you where or what you would like to go, do, or buy. He simply asks, "How about here?" When you come upon a gift shop.

The truth remained, you did not want anything from the decadent stores, you know your husband well enough now to know he would insist upon paying for whatever you glanced at for too long, so you made an effort to look inconspicuous as you followed behind him.

The store had an open front so any passer-by could see within. Colorful spices, intricately crafted clothing, souvenirs and toys, a wide array of postcards, and loads of candy. Nanami was slowly walking past a glass case of jewelry, eyeing what was held inside when the sales lady came to ask what it was the two of you were looking for.

She was boisterous and bubbly. Such a vibrant energy came from her as she excitedly greeted you both.

Upon her arrival, it was as if a switch flipped on in your brain. You couldn't help yourself from straightening your posture and smiling back at her. Throughout the interaction you tried your best to match her personality, your body language became more open and you attempted to respond reactively to her sales pitch.

You felt slightly embarrassed by the volume of your own voice as you replied to her questions. Even your laugh was different, leaving artificial pauses so she could point out other items in her shop.

After having you smell her array of perfumes, you could tell she liked you. It eased any shame you felt about your sudden extroversion. You had succeeded, you might have even made her day with how well you matched her in the interaction.

Through all of this, Nanami watched. Every so often he would include an anecdote about your trip or the item in the owner's hands. But his eyes rarely strayed from you. He was analyzing you in a way you weren't aware of, too focused on pleasing the women.

Pleasure simmered in your chest at how pleased you seemed to make the woman.

--

Though you had come into the shop without the intention to purchase anything, you found yourself trailing beside Nanami as he carried a bag full of local confections.

At some point in the gift shop, Nanami had to check his watch and announce that you two would need to head back to the train for dinner soon.

Once the afternoon air hit your face, you felt yourself relax some.

The man at your side spoke up, "I can't believe I can watch you do it." He reached into the bag and handed you a candy that the lady had spent some time explaining to you both.

She had put an entire handful of the chews into your hands, the outside had a cute white rabbit on the packaging and she insisted you must eat the candy whole. Wrapper and all.

You let Nanami drop the sweet into your palm and give it a try. "Do what?" You warble over the milk candy.

Nanami chuckles at your voice, "That thing! You know, turn yourself off and on."

You stop chewing for a moment, catching his eye, your pace even halted slightly, the station was within sight. Your eyebrows stitch together, "What do you mean?" A hand comes up to cover your mouth and you try to swallow down what you had been eating.

"You completely changed yourself just now, I watched you do it." He reached into the bag and fished out a treat for himself.

"I... didn't change myself..." You mumble, shocked he had said a word about it. "She seemed happy, I don't think there's anything wrong with that." You try and think back, attempting to recall a moment when someone else had noticed your behaviors.

It had become so natural to you, you had no idea it was visible to others.

"But it's not you." And Nanami calls your name, "You morph yourself into something else in nearly every interaction with others."

You try and wave his accusation off, marching onward to the train, "There's nothing wrong with wanting her to like me."

But he stops suddenly on the pavement, "Are you doing it to me as well?" He squints at you then, and he doesn't look pleased, "Are you turning yourself into what I want? Are you making yourself into something you're not just to please me?"

You pause for a moment, you even give it some thought, but the issue was that you knew that couldn't be the case. You had tried, but you just couldn't figure him out.

"How could I? I never know what you want."

--

Nanami seemed happy to know you couldn't pinpoint what he liked to hear. Which was altogether peevish. Looking so accomplished as your misfortune.

When the two of you made it back to the train, the sun was almost beginning to set as you started on your way to the suite. Your shoulders gently rubbed against one another while walking to the room in the narrow halls.

In good humor, Nanami leaned into your side, tilting into you jovially. You looked up at him in mock offense, leaning harder into him. He seemed to find it very funny.

When you made it back into the room, you watched as he pulled out a button-up and some slacks from his duffel. You sat on the desk and plucked a candy from the bag there.

"I can change in here," He nods to you, "You're free to use the bathroom."

You straighten up, "Oh, I thought you would want to use the shower." He had mentioned cleaning up before dinner.

"Oh, please, ladies first." He draws up the chair at your side, reaching into your shared bag for a piece of gum.

"No, no, seriously, I can wait." You toss your hands in the direction of the bathroom, fawning him in that direction.

He says nothing, only grins.

"Nanami." You groan.

"Ah, I see." He rises, "I must stink." Nodding, he walks in the direction away from you, "You must think I smell bad, alright then, I'll be on my way."

That was most certainly not what you meant and he knew it. You knew he knew it. He only ever smelled pleasant but you still scampered after him, distressed, "No! No, no, no, that isn't it."

"Really?" He whips around and stops you short, tilts his head down to look at you, "good, then you go first."

Huffing, annoyed, you snatch the dress you had laid out from your bed's banister.

Just as you're about to close the door, you hear him call out to you, "And take all the time you like!"

--

After dinner that night, the two of you practically raced back to the room to dress in pajamas. Halfway through the meal, the train had departed from the Kuala Lumpur station and started its journey to the next location.

Despite the grandeur of the whole trip, you felt, now far from home, that you could relax. Nanami was nothing but a poor influence as he called for sparkling juice and more sweets. You both thought about going to the observation car, but decided to say in your room.

You tucked your feet into the blanket of your bed and laid your back against the wall.

Since early morning, you had decided you would try and get to know your husband on this trip. Though you had been thinking of him as a friend, you knew deep down, that was a bit of a shallow assumption.

Neither of you knew hardly anything about the other. At one point, you had thought him a bit of a daydreaming, irresponsible, fool. But that had been years ago now, when you both were barely adults. And despite his words about sorcery, you knew that he was anything but irresponsible.

Eventually, your late-night snacks arrived at your room and your husband set them on the nightstand between your mattresses.

You almost wanted to speak up, 'Tell me about yourself' but that seemed too informal, too odd to say to your spouse. On the other hand, you were presently dressed in your jammies, tucked into a duvet on a twin bed, a day into your honeymoon with the man. Informal was just about as accurate as it could get.

Just as you were about to suggest a game you had learned in your first year at the Kyoto school, Nanami beat you to it.

"You know, I've been thinking about it." He hands you a glass of something clearly non-alcoholic, held within an entirely too fancy glass for the occasion.

"Mmm?" You look up at him, hoping he would proceed as he lowered himself into his bed.

"I think you ought to call me by my first name." He tilts his glass at you, and continues, "It might be a little odd for my wife to be calling to me in such a way."

You hadn't even noticed, in fact, you felt a pang of sadness at the struggle it even was to recall your partner's given title. You push that aside and sip the carbonated juice. "Maybe I'm just happy to share the name." You tease.

It was clear he hadn't been expecting that as your response. His mouth twitches as he tries to concoct a reply and his ears grow a subtle pink. "Well, Mrs. Nanami, I can't help but find it strange that you don't call me Kento."

You smile, "Kento." You try it out, it feels right, it suits him.

He says your name and after a brief pause, you both laugh at the absurdity of it all. "Kento," You begin again and he gives you a soft, "hmm?" Before you continue.

"How did you feel about getting married?"

It was a question you had been wanting to ask, and also something you never thought you would. Had you married a normal man, it would have never crossed your lips. This whole arrangement was not uncommon among clan families, you had been presented with the names of many young boys for as long as you could remember, but you knew this setting was unusual, even to many other sorcerers.

This matrimony was proving to be an experience that granted you more peace and enjoyment than half the things you had been taught to enjoy. You couldn't help the awareness that Nanami was likely not feeling the same, however.

From your previous discussions, you knew that Kento had lived a more full life than you could imagine. Having even left sorcery at one point. Did he feel chained down now? Did he feel as though he lost freedom in the same way that you had gained it? Did he feel pressured, forced even? Would he even tell you if he did?

"I always wanted to be married." He took a moment to respond, almost looking ashamed at his reply. His eyes followed the corner of the room to its inevitable end at the ceiling.

"Did you?" Your interest is certainly piqued. At Kyoto, you had heard the groans of boys and men alike at the prospect of marriage, of having to settle down and continue the bloodline.

Kento did not stutter, though, looking almost surprised at your interest, "Of course..." He considers your tone, "I suppose, for you, marriage was viewed differently." He frowns now and sets his glass down to give you his full attention. "Were you frightened?"

You want to dissuade his concern and laugh it off, attempting to explain. "Oh, no, no, it was something I had been prepared for for quite some time...it was... perfectly normal for me." You smile at your hands but he doesn't join you.

In fact, he sighs, never taking his eyes from you, the train hummed along the tracks and you both watched each other from parallel sides of the car.

“Normal doesn’t mean good or moral. Normal means normal.”

Your gaze remained on your hands encircling the stem of your glass. That, you knew to be true, indeed.

You saw the look in his eye and attempted to shift the conversation,

"You didn't know anything about me or my clan when we first met, right?" You knew the higher-ups had explained the basics to him, but it was clear that much of your family tradition would come across as foreign to him. "If that is the case, how is it that you... know me so well?" The words don't come out right.

He seemed confused at your claim, it wasn't until you continued, explaining that he must 'read people' well that he mused. Thought about it for a moment, and finally looked back to you "I'm not sure." He shrugged, "But there is something about you, I can see it, you know. And I'm not sure how nobody else seems to see it either."

That was not the response you had looked for. You had thought that maybe it had to do with his technique, or maybe he had studied behavior in his past, or maybe he was innately interested in the actions of others.

Nobody before had noticed you cater yourself, and yet after only a week or so, he could spy out exactly where you frantically tried to blend yourself in.

"You tirelessly analyze people, me included. You try and... I don't know, dig up who they are, what they want," He shakes his head, "what they want from you." He grabs his glass again but you are honed in on his words, "Then, you mold yourself into something that will fit them."

He turns to face you now and the train rattles slightly, "I've barley known you a handful of days but I've seen you do it. I've seen you play half a dozen roles for different people, for different circumstances. And honestly, I don't know who you are. And you're my wife. Isn't that crazy?"

He seemed to want to make light of this deduction of the very nature of your being, so you try and allow it. "If it makes you feel better," you intone, "you're my husband and I have no idea what you want me to be."

He narrows his brows and even though you can tell that's his 'upset' face, you can't help but appreciate just how handsome the man is.

He speaks your name slowly as if troubled that was what you drew from his words.

"Not everybody wants you to be someone else."

--

You had spent the night talking amongst each other, no high-school game necessary. You asked him about his family and his childhood, and he, in turn, asked about yours. The conversation flowed smoothly and it was well into the night before the two of you realized you probably ought to be getting some sleep.

And this time, when you drifted off, you were not taken by surprise at the ease in rest's arrival.

〰・♡・〰〰・♡・〰〰・♡・〰〰・♡・〰〰・♡・〰

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[twisted-wonderland-but-gayer]

If requests are still open could I possibly get a fic about yuu getting boyfriends. Specifically that cute octavinelle boy or Jonathan, awh just dealing with nrcs crap and then come home to 2 cuties

Yuu and their Ugly Ass NPC S/O

I made a buncha random NPCs based on random Disney characters I hope you can tell who is who. GN, 2.7k words.

****

Yuu was the school heartthrob. How could they not be? 

They were kind, considerate And confident! They always stood up for others and themselves. I mean, they even beat several people’s asses — dormleaders even!

They're attractive and talented and smart too. Always so hardworking. It's a bit intimidating how a magicless human can keep up with a bunch of unruly mages.

Even the most tsundere students admire Yuu. Despite what the students said, a simple, kind-hearted and relaxed person was stronger than the lot of them. Something the students yearn for. A nice break from everyone's dog eat dog mentality.

Their charming laughter, their smarts, their strength… The way they smile… Their gentleness… The way they hold themselves…

So many people were vying for their affections, their attention… Waiting for the perfect moment to ask you out...

Can you imagine their surprise when you found love with a nobody?

Heartslabyul

Hatter?! Really?? That absolute kook??

He's so weird! Wears way too many hats and loves making them. His infatuation with them makes Trey's dental obsession normal in comparison.

Ace would have preferred it if you dated Riddle honestly. He can at least understand that. Also can everyone stop remarking how similar they are?! They aren't! He's normal and Hatter is weird!

Your relationship is none of Riddle’s business but he hopes Hatter’s eccentricities don't rub off on you too much. He knows how to find loopholes in every rule so he can dabble in his own insanity it's infuriating. You better not follow his example! Seriously he thought half a cup of tea meant he had to saw a teacup in half!

Deuce is happy for you! I mean at least you'll never get bored with Hatter around and his usual laughter. It is like having a second Ace around though…

Cater finds all the matching accessories he makes for the two of you so cute but he loves the drama in the school even more. Perfect romance novel Yuu with the class clown troublemaker… He's surprised you didn't get with Ace…

Trey is just happy for the two of you. You want someone zany to unwind with after a long day of having your shit together. He gets it. You two are a good fit. He hopes you can both have fun. Oh and can you ask Hatter to fix up his hat? It got a little frayed… thank you…

The school is in shock, horror, watching as Hatter is giggling and hanging off Yuu as they walk down the hall totally lovestruck. He's totally mad! Yet you love him! All of the perfect straight A students fall to their knees as they realize they're too put together for you.

What Trey surmised was right however. You always have to be your very best every day. Always be the voice of reason, always fix others’ mistakes, always set an example. 

With Hatter the stress melts away, replaced by wacky activities and childish fun. It's great to be able to drop the perfect student's expectations and be a little immature…

Savanaclaw

That dumb tiger Cheren? 

I mean he's a very nice guy. Tall, muscular, sporty… but a total idiot… 

He goes on and on about The Jungle Tiger of his people and how he's gonna be just as strong as him someday and how he's gotta work harder and there you are kicking your feet for him.

Your circle already has three idiots in it and now you're dating one? Leona remarks it seems you have a type.

He's pure muscle-y sunshine, always trying to help others…

If you liked naive goody two shoes boys so much you should have gone to RSA. Still, Ruggie supposes it's cute…

Funny even, watching you lecture him after he tried to smell sand by inhaling it. Oh poor poor Yuu, Ruggie shakes his head, you always make more work for yourself.

He and Jack are pretty similar. Work out partners even. He can admit first hand that your lover is most likely the strongest physically in the dorm and he's gonna surpass him some day!

There's times where your dates with the tiger are interrupted when you bump into Jack and the two end up challenging each other, throwing off your plans.

Not that you mind though as you get to admire his body and competitive spirit as he constantly looks over for your approval doing his best to impress you.

Jack will admit… It does feel a little weird how similar they are at times… Is he your type…? Huh…

You don't care what they say though. What they don't see is how much your boyfriend helps you behind the scenes. Helping you relax after a long day or checking up on you after school drama or how he plays seems to cheer you up.

Tutoring him and making sure people don't take advantage of his kindness is not the burden people think it is. It's an act of love. And you love your dear himbo tiger boy.

All of the muscleheads in Savanaclaw seethe… They just needed to be a bit stupider.

Octavinelle 

I'm sorry you have two lovers?? Twins??? The STINGRAYS??? CLAUD AND DARREN?

That was the exact reaction of everyone in the school when they heard news but especially Azul.

Your taste in men has to be a form of self harm, Prefect they swear—

They're just so… weird…

The kind of creepy twins in every horror movie. Always together. Always seems to read each other's mind. Holding hands in hallways. Always in sync. Finishing sentences. Matching smirks with empty eyes. The whole shebang.

And there you are! So kind and cool and just… you! You can fight yes, but unlike the Leech twins rumors, everyone is in agreement that those two have killed before. Look at them!! 

Do you have any self-preservation skills, Yuu? Are you safe? Blink twice if you need help, Jade says, he'll even do it free of charge. Hell, Azul’s gonna send his own twins over for a wellness check soon.

Is the shrimpy into scary twins? This is just perfect teasing material for Floyd. If you liked scary twins you could have at least asked them out or something. Those two just seem so… boring…

So secretive and polite-acting with all their fully thought out schemes– Where's the flavor?! Jade is in agreement. At least he and Floyd have distinct personalities.

Azul is just very baffled. Good for you Prefect but have you thought this through…? It's just you're the typical perfect crush people write in their diaries about and you're with them? It's oddly intimidating. Is there more to you he doesn't know?

A total powermove to have two scary boyfriends in this damned place. Despite all the rumors though, the two love you with their full hearts and are happy sharing. They both take such good care of you and no one bothers to take the time to get to know them.

They are both so vastly different yet similar. Mischievous and kind. The rumors mean nothing to you when they've been your number one supporters through the school year. Sides, if anyone upsets you they'll take care of it…

Scarabia

Ibadat?? The total birdbrain? Okay, yeah, seems you do have a type for cocky idiots given your friend group. 

The parrot is a very confident, extroverted personality with a bit of a mischievous streak… a real chatterbox and never thinks before he does anything. 

He is a bit of a scatterbrain and tends to get wrapped in so many things at once, yet is a very good schemer…

Jamil doesn't have any strong feelings about it. You're happy. That's all that matters. However he does like that since you’ve been dating him he causes less trouble in his dorm now. He can just go to you and ask him to sort him out.

Kalim finds it sooooo cute however and seems to be more excited for your relationship than either of you. A magic carpet is one thing– but being carried and flown around??? That's so much more romantic!

Students are flabbergasted on how you would want someone so forgettable as him. He barely stands out from most of the other students here… Doesn't seem to have any major achievements either.

What they don't see is the bird that takes out some of his feathers to decorate you with when you mention not having any special clothes. They don't see the praises he gives you. The lectures you receive when you push yourself too hard. The confidence he instills in you. The way he does all he can for you, always at your beck and call.

He never lets you doubt yourself for a second and you never doubt him either. 

Pomefiore

Raven… ah…

An interesting one at least. They are always a bit of an enigma among most students. Fashionable, beautiful, confident, yet mysterious. One of the best alchemy students in the school.

It should be no surprise that two beautiful and accomplished people get together, so why was it a surprise?

Well not one person can name anything they know about Raven. They hold themselves high, yet shy away from others. They are so prominent yet elusive. You may see them roam the halls yet never know where they go. They are elegant, yet have the most animated expressions. 

Does anyone even know their favorite food? Favorite color? Has anyone even heard them speak?? Why do they have so many oddities on them at any given time?

Vil doesn't care at all about the rumors. As housewarden, he checks over all of his dormmates. The birdfolk preens themselves well. They have good hygiene, good confidence, good grasp of their identity and who they are, and they're hard working!

He's never had to lecture or guide them once. With their attention to detail they always seem to notice what he expects without him having to say it either. So what they keep to themself? Eveyones allowed their privacy.

Rook is almost jealous. You get to understand the most mysterious student on campus? The one that captured their heart? You get to see them behind closed doors and know them on a personal level. Maybe even hear them speak if they do at all? Oh, how he longs to uncover their many mysteries himself… Ah, but what a beautiful love story! The trust, the passion. He is rooting for both of you. 

Epel doesn't trust it one bit. Nope. Nuh uh. Sorry.

No one even knows what they get for lunch. They strut down hallways with all eyes on them yet are quick to flee when spoken to? They are seen all across campus yet no one knows any one place they frequent? And they alway suck up to Vil like ugh!

They're bad news Yuu! No one good has that many secrets! The campus all agrees and it's totally not ‘cause they're salty!

Fools. If only they knew how sweet they were. All those times they saw Raven ‘wandering’ was them making their way to you. All those trinkets were offerings of courtship. The place where they disappear to is your dorm.

They're confident because they know they're talented. They flaunt because they're beautiful. People just want to pick them apart and know everything about them for the sake of their curiosity and not because they care, unlike you who doesn't expect anything out of them. Why wouldn't they open up to you?

The Fair Queen was said to have a raven that accompanied her everywhere she went, staying by her side matter what. They intend to show you how deep the loyalty of a raven goes. 

Ignihyde

FEAR???

Idia never thought he'd meet anyone more socially awkward than him. Fear leaves his room less than him!

The imp-man always looks like he's on the verge of a panic attack, he shakes every step of the way, everywhere he goes, and he's known to not even get a few words out. He wasn't even on the roster, he's that distant!! He lives up to his name for sure.

Even when you walk down the hall with your boyfailure in hand no one believes for a second you're together. You're just being nice and helping him go out!

So many students refuse to believe you’re with him. They're better! They can easily impress you more than that imp! And Fear tells you they're right… Boo! Bad Fear! You're wonderful!

Seriously if Idia realized he had this much Of a chance he might have considered taking it…

Ortho as a first year has seen him a bit more since he's friends with you and likes him a lot! He and Idy would be friends!! 

Everyone doubts his capabilities and mind. Tearing down his appearance with his horns and messy clothes. 

You don't let anyone talk cruelly about him and give your group of first years THE scariest lecture of their life when they dare comment anything negative about him.

If people did pay attention they'd know that Fear would come out of his room a lot. Whether as a bird that flaps around campus or a stray that frequents the gardens.

It's not his fault he has a severe stutter. You were the only one who bothered to wait for him to finish his sentences, even when the simplest ones took minutes. You never made fun of him or even brought it up.

They don't see that he loves you to the point of invention. How he makes so many things to make your life a bit easier here. How he frets over you and listens to your worries. All the little animals he becomes to cheer you up or look out for you from afar. 

The people who put him down never had a chance with you to begin with.

Diasomnia

Griffon…? Who is that…? Wait, did that statue just move…?

It was only revealed when Malleus of all people met him first. He invited you to a late night stroll to show you some of the wonderful gargoyles his dormitory has.

He was so proud to show you this new gargoyle he only recently discovered here. As he rattled on about this interesting find you paused. “Wait, that's not just a gargoyle… Griffon???”

The gargoyle suddenly moved at the sound of your voice, yawning a bit. “Oh hey Yuu…” he said, reaching over to drape over you. 

“...a talking Gargoyle…?” Your lover? 

The school had a small storm overhead as Malleus pouted. You're telling him there was a gargoyle student here and you didn't tell him? When you know he likes gargoyles? How dare you! He's so betrayed for a bit but his attitude changes when he gets to talk to Griffon.

Not only are they a gargoyle– they're a descendant of the goon race. The very goons that worked under the thorn fairy and protected the castle with their lives! Why he's honored… he even joined his club too! And he says the other gargoyles on campus say good things about him!! He can talk to them?! Oh Yuu, he wishes nothing but the best for your relationship!!!

Lilia is surprised he didn't see them sooner! Just like the goons he knew. Honorably sticking to the shadows. They always watch over others and save their energy to put their all into whatever task they must do when needed– you are very lucky indeed.

Griffon makes Waka-sama happy so he approves fully! Furthermore, goons are very loyal to Briar Valley and he's so happy you're recognizing the glory of fae culture! He can tell you even more about it later!

Silver has a new napping buddy… Griffon’s always so tired, saving his energy for when he needs it most. When he's caught napping in the rain the gargoyle stands over him to shield him from it and get some much appreciated moisture.

Griffon guards the school. Perched high in every hallway, outside every building, every classroom he attends. He steps in when needed and that's how you both met someone who was giving you unnecessary trouble and the statue from above swooped down to intervene.

Students wonder how it even works out. He's asleep almost all the time. He doesn't do anything . Even when he's awake he's always tired. And he always gets in the way of the class fights to break them up! A real stick in the mud.

Though it is true he is always tired, he is willing to defy his own nature to stay awake enough to talk to you. He is happy to leave his perch to be with you as well. It is a goon’s job to protect what they love most dearly. You are exactly that.

[komoboko]

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐝𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮

ft: kokushibo tsugikuni, douma, akaza soyama, sekido, karaku, urogi, aizetsu, nakime daki and gyutaro

Writing block got me and it was tragic

# kokushibo ! ☆

KOKUSHIBO who really likes to spar with you. Even after you start dating, he’s not really the one who knows the proper way of asking you on a date or just to spend time so he’ll spar with you. He enjoys training in general and being able to spend time with you at the same time makes it things so much better. You’ll end you understanding why he wants to spar so much eventually and end up asking to spend time with him to give him the proper courage.

# douma ! ☆

Since he can’t really feel emotions properly DOUMA really likes seeing yours. He asks everybody in his cult for every romantic thing couples do and tries every single one of them on you. He observes how your face moves and your reactions to everything intently and it pleases him seeing somebody can feel and do so many things at once. He believes it romantic knowing he caused it, and you just have to endure it every day all day.

# akaza ! ☆

AKAZA who just likes talking over tea. He’ll invite you over whether you’ve just seen him or you’ve been around him already he still snags to have his designated tea time. Akaza just likes sitting in scenic locations during the night and just talking with you. He doesn’t mind what just to spend time with you. It reminds him of his wife, not directly just the feeling. He isn’t sure why he’s just sure he feels very nice when he’s around you.

# sekido ! ☆

He complains way too much for his own good. To the point SEKIDO’S complaints turn into compliments. He doesn’t even realize it but on days where he’s complaining about everybody and your next on the list he just ends up complimenting you instead. He’ll throw this in “Why are you so pretty? It’s irritating how you distract me?” he wouldn’t even realize he said this. Don’t put it out to him if you want him to stay ‘calm.’ He means everything he says but he’ll never admit it.

# karaku ! ☆

KARAKU can get really annoying because he just likes to tease you. Every chance he gets to poke at you he’ll take it. He’s always trying to flirt with you whether he’s serious or just messing with you it doesn’t matter to him. He always means every sky word he says to you and he’ll make sure you know to. It always makes his day being able to spend time with you like this. Even if he’s getting on your nerves every time you see him around the corner.

# urogi! ☆

He brings you like a lot of gifts, weird ones sometimes to. Since UROGI is still half bird he ends up deriving some traits which includes some of their romantic behaviors. Anything he finds intriguing or fits you he’ll bring it to you as a gift. You end up having alot of random jewels and necklaces hanging around, other times he’ll bring you food. Not food you would eat though, more food he and all his bird friends you think he has would like it much better.

# aizetsu ! ☆

He really loves just spending time with you, as AIZETSU likes to take walks with you in the night. Just being able to do something peaceful and quiet with you around makes him feel much better about everything. It’s a breath of fresh air especially if Sekido has already made his ears fall of by lashing out again like normal. Be able to not being under a state of stress while embracing your presence is something he likes. He tries holding your hand but is only ever able to intertwine your pinkies if u don’t ever take the lead.

# nakime !

NAKIME simply just enjoys playing music for you. She just likes sitting by you and playing her biwa, as she tries to learn all the different songs you like and she’s very intent on mastering all of them. Nakime always ask you for any tips or critiques as she always takes any consideration you have for her and is very appreciated at your insight. It’s a very calming activity she enjoys but she’s always careful not to mess anything up in the infinity castle while playing.

# daki ! ☆

She wants to do her skincare with you when she gets the time. Due to DAKI being the courtesan skincare is very important to her, and she wants to make sure yours looks as good as her as well! Be prepared to be sat down with her for nearly two hours as she makes sure both yours and her skin is shining by the time she’s finished her routine on both of you. She thinks your presence there makes things more bearable for her and it pleases her when you stay around for much longer.

# gyutaro ! ☆

GYUTARO stares, like a lot. He can’t really help it he just ends up staring at you! He isn’t the best at expressing what he feels about you and ends up just staring at you to admire you. You catch him just gazing at you alot lost in thought and normally have to snap him out of it. Gyutaro appreciates your patience and putting up with him all the time, knowing he’s going to do it again in the near future. He really can’t help himself as in his eyes you truly are perfection to him. He just doesn’t know how to tell you.

[tttabii]

── 박종성 HERE ALL ALONG ; PARK JONG-SEONG

pairing୭ football captain! jay x dancer! reader

word count: 4331 ; jay is also in a band and plays the electric guitar, reader has a boyfriend, fluff. taesan and jaehyun from bnd mentioned.

YOU WERE THE STAR OF YOU SCHOOL'S dance team—graceful, confident, loved by every single person lucky enough to know your name. It wasn't just your talent that drew people in, but your essence. So naturally when Jay saw you first, at the pep rally, gliding across the gym floor like it was your stage, he was hooked.

He had it bad.

This man did not fall easily for anyone. Jay was the school's golden boy—guitar player, lead singer of a local band, football team captain, sharp jawline, quiet but devastating charm. He wasn't the type to crush easily, but something about you made him fall hard.

Then he found out you were dating Taesan.

Of course it was Taesan. Smooth talking, perfect hair, cocky basketball captain, with a small army of cheerleaders ready to jump whenever he said jump. Which made him loathe to see Taesan hang his arm around your waist, the way he'd press a kiss to your cheek so casually, like he didn't realize just how lucky he was.

Or maybe he did—which was what made Jay even angrier.

Jay had only confessed once. Just once. But you had sweetly said no, you already have a boyfriend. Which cut him deeper than he would ever let on. Who did he think he was? Just some guy with a guitar who had a crush bigger than his heart.

But what hurt more was that Jay remembered something, a conversation you had with Jake when things were still casual with you and Taesan. You had gone through a list of what your ideal type was—could sing, could play electric guitar, athletic but shy, a good cook, gentle but assertive, you had even laughed when you said "A guy who can kiss well wouldn't hurt either,".

Jake had told Jay all of that.

Jay was all of that.

And maybe you didn't know this then, but you were describing him, not Taesan.So he waited. He watched you from afar, and clenched his teeth every time Taesan kissed you. He could treat you better than he ever could. Love you better than he ever could.

It wasn't about popularity—he didn't need it. He just wanted you.

One day, Taesan brought you a coffee before practice. You smiled, thanked him, but the taste didn't sit right anymore. Recently you had been unable to stomach coffee. Not when you'd grown so fond of the comforting experience of oolong tea–that mysterious oolong tea that just sat on your desk every morning. You always wondered who it came from.

Until, one day, you noticed the little note tucked under the bottle: "From your secret admirer ;)"

You smiled to yourself, your heart fluttering just a little bit. You didn't know who it was from, but the feeling behind it was warm, considerate, and oddly familiar. You didn't think much of it—just a cute admirer wanting to make your day.

You had no idea it was Jay. And he was still willing to fight for your love.

           ૮₍˃ ⤙˂ ₎ა

Another long evening at 1009 Studio, the mirrors fogged from the level of movement and intensity. You wiped the sweat from your forehead; your body still buzzing from the high of practice. The bass of the latest K-pop track still pulsing through your head as you threw your stuff into your bag and waved to a few dancers heading out.  

You swung open the studio door and stopped short—rain. Seriously, rain. Because this wasn't just rain; it was torrenting rain. The kind of rain that drenches the pavement in a matter of seconds. With a big sigh, you pulled your phone from your pocket and called the one person you were hoping would rescue you from being soaked.

"Taesan," you said when he picked up. "Can you get me?"

"My car is in the shop, babe. Can't you just grab a cab or something?"

You bit the inside of your cheek. "I forgot my wallet back at the dorm."

Silence. And then a distracted, "Sorry, I can't help right now," and the line went dead.

You frowned at your screen in disbelief before shoving it into your hoodie pocket—and sighed again. Of course. You considered running for it. It was going to be a pretty miserable walk. The dorms weren't super close—it was 5 minutes by car. But what else could you do?

Then, as if in a really cheesy twist of fate, someone called your name.

"Y/n?"

Turning your head, you saw a familiar figure walking toward you, an umbrella in one hand and a cold caramel frappuccino in the other.

Jay.

He looked surprised—but happy—to see you. "What are you doing out here?"

You let out a sheepish laugh, shifting your bag over your shoulder. "Practicing. I'm here most evenings."

Jay glanced at the rain behind you, and then back to you. "Do you need a ride?"

You shook your head politely. "It's fine, I'll figure it out-"

"It's pouring," he interrupted, stepping in closer, eyes gentle. "C'mon. I'll just drop you off. I'm not trying anything, I promise."

There was a kindness in his voice you weren't used to. Not the kind that some guys back at school use to impress you, though. You lingered for a second longer before nodding. "Okay. Thanks."

His car—a slick black BMW—was parked just around the corner. The inside smelled of cologne and rain, which was a pleasant change. The seats were soft and warm, especially compared to the cold leather in Taesan's flashy ride.

You sank into the passenger seat, and quietly buckled yourself in, still feeling a little strange. After all, you had recently rejected him, and here you were—wet and in need—and he was still offering solace. Jay drove in silence at first, the slight hum of the rain filled the space between you.  

You caught a glimpse of the caramel drink resting in the cupholder, and looked maybe a little too long. Your throat was parched, and now the mere thought of sweet was causing your mouth to slightly water.

Fortunately for you, Jay caught your gaze and smiled to himself."You want it?" he asked nonchalantly.

Your eyes widened. "No—I mean—uh, you already drank from it. I can't-"

"It's fine," he said, nudging it toward your side. "I don't mind."

There was something about the way he said it. Like he noticed you needed something and didn't think twice about offering it.You hesitated even longer before taking a small sip.

It was your favourite: exactly how you like it, sweet and smooth. You honestly hadn't realized how badly you needed something warm and familiar until that moment.

"...Thank you," you said quietly, meeting his eyes.

Jay glanced over at you, one hand on the wheel and a faint smile on his lips. "Anytime."

The following morning, your desk was no longer bare.

A beautifully wrapped caramel cookie—your favorite from the little bakery downtown—was plopped in the middle. Underneath, another note:"For the girl with the sweet tooth and softest smile. – Secret admirer ;)"

Your brows furrowed together. You looked around the room, but the early morning light streamed through mostly empty seats. Nobody seemed to be watching you, and no one was close enough to have just dropped it.This wasn't the first gift, and it was starting to get... personal.

Whoever it was, they had some knowledge about you. Your drink preferences, your favorite bakery. Things that you didn't exactly scream to the world.

You took a slow bite, savoring the cookie while letting your mind reluctantly drift to yesterday—to Jay. To how he held the umbrella just right to keep you dry. The way his voice had warmth, and the way his eyes softened when he told you it was okay to take the drink.

You blinked and shook your head, cheeks on fire.

No, you weren't cheating. You just shared a drink. There was nothing to it.But the more you thought about it, the more your chest ached.

Taesan didn't even bother looking. Didn't call a cab, not a friend's ride, nothing. Just dismissed you, and then literally left you there standing in the rain as if you weren't even worth it.And then Jay came—someone who didn't owe you anything for, but still arrived exactly when you needed someone the most.

You were still chewing on the cookie when the classroom door opened again. You looked up. Taesan.

He walked in like he owned the place, varsity jacket draped over what just looked like his shoulder. Although he was casually walking in; he was tense, and there was something sharp in his eyes as glared at the note, then the half-eaten cookie in your hand.

"You're actually going to eat that?" he said, voice low but stupid sharp.

You blinked. "What?"

"One of my buddies saw you getting in a car with Jay yesterday, Jaehyun. Said it was a black BMW remember? That's his car right?" His voice was growing sharper, and bitter. "What the hell, Y/N?"

You got out of your chair with your eyebrows scrunched. "I called you, but it was raining and I had no wallet, and you told me to figure it out. Jay was just around! He was just giving me a ride!"

"Right," laughed Taesan, moving in closer to you with his combination of concern and sarcasm. "The guy that confessed to you? The idiot you rejected, and he was just being nice? Come on, Y/N. Do you think I am stupid?"

A few of your classmates streamed in, stopping right in their tracks at the palpable tension between you both.You crossed your arms. "Maybe if you been there for me, it never would have happened."

"That guy is obviously just trying to get in your pants like every guy that's drooling over you."

You stared back at him, hurt. "What makes you better than them then? Huh? What if you're just trying to do the same thing, Taesan?"

Silence. That one question was like a jolt of lightning in the air, even enough for a few of them to be caught in the passenger seat walking to class. Someone in the back softly said something and caused a gasp from someone next to them.

His jaw clenched. "Baby, you know I'm not like them..." Except this time his tone wasn't freestyle warm. It was tired. It was defensive. It was weak.

You swallowed thickly. "Then maybe start acting like it."

Your words weren't yelled. You didn't need to raise your voice to make the room feel colder than it already was. The silence between you stretched out. Everyone around was quiet, eyes darting between you both.

And somewhere, just outside the classroom door, Sunghoon stood with his hands in his pockets, having just passed the cookie on Jay's behalf minutes earlier. He heard every word. And he couldn't wait to tell Jay the gossip.

When Taesan stormed out of the classroom, his shoulders tense with unspoken rage, all eyes slowly shifted to you. But you didn't even flinch.

You slid back into your seat, pulled your laptop back toward you, and took another measured bite of your cookie. The sweetness tasted like a cruel joke to the bitterness still churning in your chest.  

You could feel the weight of their scrutiny like needles. You lifted your head slowly, narrowed your eyes. "What? Never seen two people argue before?"  

That quieted them. 

It had a completely different tone, the tone you normally used to approach them. It was sharp, edged, cold. And that's what turned their eyes away. They were not used to that side of you—the one who didn't play nice. You took a deep breath and turned your attention back to your screen, trying to still your fingers which were shaking slightly.

The words on the keyboard morphed for a moment. Maybe it was frustration. Maybe because you were just exhausted-tired of everyone's idealization of you, to just be prodded and ripped apart for a misstep.  

Sunghoon practically sprinted across campus the second the break bell rang. Jake barely had time to open his energy drink before Sunghoon skidded to a stop in front of him and Jay, eyes wide.

"Dude. You're not going to believe what just happened."

Jay, who was just lounging on a lifted bench outside, raised his eyes from his phone. "What?"

"Y/n and Taesan. Huge fight. In class."

Jake raised an eyebrow. "For real?"

"For real," Sunghoon nodded. "Whole room heard it. They brought you up too, Jay. Apparently, Jaehyun snitched about your car."

Jay blinked. "Me?"

"Yeah, people are talking, like, crazy," Sunghoon added as he laboured to catch his breath.

"Football captain vs basketball captain, over the girl that everyone lowkey has a crush on." Jake whistled low. "Damn. I thought we would have a peaceful lunch break."

Jay didn't say anything for a moment, glanced down at his drink, his expression was unreadable. Sunghoon nudged him. "Come on man. You're her secret admirer. Cookies today, oolong tea the entire week, you're literally halfway from being the leading character in a campus drama."

Jay gave a small chuckle, as he shook his head slowly. "I'm not trying to steal her," he said plainly, his eyes calm, but the sincerity in his voice was striking. "But if things ever end with him... I just wanted her to know there is someone out there who treats her better."

When break finally came around, you had snapped. 

The whispers followed you like shadows. Girls who used to smile at you with fake sweetness were now watching you with smugness, as if hoping your relationship was falling apart so they could slide into Taesan's life.

The boys had given you space earlier, now they were hanging around a little bit longer in the hallways. Smirks. Flirty comments. Trying to create their own opportunity just because they heard that you had some kind of fight.

The worst part were the gossip vultures—those who didn't want either of you, but just lived for the chance to watch other people fall apart so they had juicy bits to share. You were done with it.

As you walked past a group of girls who were loud in their whispers by your locker, you didn't even hesitate. "Maybe you all can try focusing on your own love lives before worrying about mine. Oh wait—all you can worry about is that none of you have one." 

They all went silent, shocked. You didn't even turn your head. You were finished being the sweet girl for them to play with. 

You made your way to the cafe just off campus, needing a moment away from the stifling gossip and your own tumultuous thoughts. The jingle of the bell above the door rang softly as you stepped inside—and your gaze immediately went to them.

Jay, Sunghoon, and Jake were tucked in the back booth—the best light, the cozy window where you always sat. The three of them were talking, laughing quietly about something you didn't catch until you walked in, after which Jake effortlessly brought up football, and Jay reclined, glancing your way once then just as quickly looking away. Too quickly.

You made your way to the counter, got your drink, and paused for a moment before walking over. "Hey," you said, sounding more lighthearted than you felt, "is it ok if I sit here? This is sorta... my spot."

Sunghoon was the first to smile. "Would've been rude not to offer."

Jake adjusted and gave you a bit of space. "You're basically part of the team now," he teased.

You slid in beside Jay, your shoulder brushing his for just a second as you got settled. The air felt strangely calm around them—not charged or performative like it always did when you were with Taesan and his crowd.  

They were surprisingly funny, bouncing off each other with a rhythm that made you laugh without thinking. Sunghoon made dry comments under his breath, Jake was dramatic with everything, and Jay... Jay had this quiet wit, that low kind of sarcasm you didn't expect to enjoy so much.

But every once in a while, you would find Jay's stare lingering just a little longer. You weren't bothered. You knew about his crush—everyone basically did—but you weren't sure if he still had it. And to be honest, you didn't feel like figuring that out just yet.

You began to get into the conversation as the topics turned lighter. Jake mentioned dogs—of course he did—and Sunghoon jumped in with stories about his excessively spoiled French poodle, Gaeul.

Jake proudly looked for a picture of his golden retriever, Layla, and you couldn't help but grin as he got lost in the details like a proud dad. You got to chime in, too, about Wonie, your little Pomeranian, who acts like she's royalty.

"She essentially owns my apartment," you said, smiling. "She'll bark at me if I don't fluff her blanket exactly like she likes it."

Jay was just listening with a little grin, still pretty quiet, as usual. But he was totally engaged—his eyes darting around with interest, as if he were cataloging every single part of it. 

You can't deny it felt different. Talking about animals with Taesan was hardly a conversation. Taesan would roll his eyes, say things like, "Why waste my time on this?" or "You should go to this party instead."

 And yeah, Jay had a reputation too—he had that edge to him, that kind of bad boy charm people whispered about—but somehow... his attention didn't feel like a game.

Not the way it did with Taesan.

You were still in a fit of laughter on something Jake said when you caught Jay again looking at you from the corner of your eyes. It was not as intense, but it was still warm. Like Jay was slowly soaking up all your pieces.

           ૮₍˃ ⤙˂ ₎ა

Things between you and Taesan had been dry for weeks now.

Hardly even a conversation. Hardly even a text. The most you got was a kiss on the cheek, and even that required him to remember to do it. Not even that.

Still—you made it to his game. You weren't sure why. Maybe it was habit. Maybe it was the hope of feeling as you used to. Jay was in the crowd too, a few rows below you, but he didn't say anything. You didn't say anything either. You clapped a bit when the game ended.

Taesan's team won. He celebrated like everything was normal, jumping and yelling with an arm over that girl best friend who he always said not to worry about. She was hugging him like it was a normal thing. You didn't wait for the team to come off the court.

You stood and left the bleachers while the crowd cheered you were over. Too loud. Too fake. You wanted to go back to your dorm and crawl into your bed.  

On the way out, you paused by the vending machine. You dug out a few coins from your coat pocket and, for no reason other than lack of thinking, pressed the button for oolong tea. You'D grown used to it. You didn't even drink it that much before—but now? Your dorm was filled with thermal bottles of it. Neatly left on your desk almost every morning. Whoever it was didn't care about money clearly, or boundaries.

And yeah, you might have had a good idea of who it was. Maybe Jay. But you weren't entirely positive.

He was next to you right as the bottle dropped into the tray. You didn't say anything right away. Just took it and leaned on the vending machine. "I knew I should've just stayed in tonight," you said quietly.

Jay didn't say anything. Just looked over at you. You were about to say something else when Jake came rushing over from the main building.

His face was off. "Yo. You guys—listen. I saw it."

You turned to him. "Saw what?"

"Taesan kissed her. The cheerleader. Full on. Right on the court."

You stared at him for a second. And then breathed out a little. "Right," you said. "Of course he did."

By that point, it wasn't even heartbreak. Just that quiet, numbing disappointment that you knew was coming. It still stung though. He couldn't have at least waited? But no. He had to make it loud. He had to make it... public.

Jay ran a hand through his hair, jaw tight. "He's dead."

"I'm over it," you lied. "I'm just tired."

Except Jay clearly wasn't over it.

Because the next morning, as you walked out of class with Jake, you saw Taesan standing by the hallway, waiting. Probably to explain. Probably to lie again.

And Jay was already heading toward him before you could say a word.

The second Taesan opened his mouth, Jay swung the first punch. Hard. Fist into Taesan's jaw. Taesan stumbled, and that's when he swung back.

Shit was chaotic in the hallway. People were backing up. A few were screaming. Others were recording. You stood frozen watching them throw punches, neither of them backing down. Jay was furious. You have never seen him like this, completely out of it.

Jay had Taesan on the floor, his jacket already off, black tank top already showing, flexing muscles with every shove he threw. You honestly didn't think he would hear you above everything. Until you grabbed his arm.

Instantly, Jay's body stopped moving. He looked at you; eyes wild, breathing fast. His face shifted. The aggression had evaporated like he suddenly forgot where he was. Who he was battling with. "Jay... stop," you said softly. 

Then Taesan, still on the ground, looked up and laughed. "Figures," he spat. "You're just a whore and a cheater."

You didn't flinch. "Says you," you shot back, voice sharp. "Who kissed the girl he told me NOT to worry about. In front of the whole damn court."  

"Come on. Let's go before I punch that guy too," you muttered under your breath, tugging at Jay's arm before things escalated even more.

He didn't even fight you, just pulled away from the crowd. The hallway was still buzzing, people whispering, head down as some stared at their phones like they already posted it. Most were on your side.

They witnessed the kiss. They saw Taesan act like he didn't have someone in the stands waiting on him. His reputation was literally blowing up—and it wasn't just among the students.

Word was spreading the basketball coach, who always had a weakness for you, said Taesan was done. Blacklisted. The team didn't want that kind of drama slowing them down.

Jay had a bruised hand. His knuckles were red and raw from the punches he threw, and you didn't notice until you stopped moving. "Give me that," you said, taking Jay's hand.

He blinked. "What?"

"Your hand, dummy."

You dragged him straight to the infirmary. Jake showed up halfway through, tossing Jay's bag onto the chair before shooting him a look like dumbass, I told you not to punch him but also I'm proud of you.

Inside the bag, tucked into the side pocket, was the same thermal bottle you kept waking up to on your desk.

You chuckled softly as you picked it up. "So it's you, huh? My secret admirer?"

Jay was sitting on the edge of the cot, still cooling from the fight, and as you looked up, caught him already checking you out. "You caught me," he said, his voice a little raspy.

You smiled at him, holding his hand as you cleaned up the cut on his cheek. Then, without thinking, you took his hand and placed it in your lap, as you took care of his bruised knuckles. His hand became still at the sudden warmth.

"Damn," he mumbled, looking down at your lap. "You really put my hand there, huh?"

"You were bleeding," you said, casually, trying to hide your smile. You could tell he was a little flustered.

His ears were slightly pink. "I guess I was a little blind," you said softly. "Clearly you were my type. Jake said so last night. He texted me. Said I ought to open my eyes."

Jay leaned his head back slightly. "So you finally listened to Jake for once?"

"Yeah. It just took one fight and some bruised knuckles."

Things changed after that. 

He started being around you more. He walked you to class. You sat by him, Sunghoon and Jake at lunch. Everything felt different—more calm, better. Like something was happening. You were healing.

He took you to this tiny dog café one weekend. You spent the whole time petting every dog that was in the café, petting them and ruffling their fur, making a super soft voice all the while saying "good boy." Jay just watched you as if you had him under a spell.

Every time you laughed, he felt the tightening in his chest.

"I'm falling," he whispered to Jake.

Jake looked at him and smirked. "Bro, you fell the moment you said you'll be making her oolong tea everyday."

After football practice one afternoon, you walked over to him just as he wiped the sweat off the back of his neck with a towel. He naturally looked up when he felt the approaching footsteps, and he smiled very little when he saw who was looking at him.

"You should have made your move on me before Taesan did, you know," you said.

Jay chuckled. "Maybe I'm just shy."

"Aww," you teased. "Didn't take you to be a shy guy."

"Shut up," he replied, tossing the towel from his other shoulder and lightly slinging it over his shoulder. "You should have opened your eyes and seen I was clearly your type. I could treat you so much better."

He flexed his bicep slightly as he said it. You flushed.

"Shut up," you muttered, turning away with a grin.

"Oh, I heard from Jake you like guys who can kiss well," he said casually, dropping his voice a bit. "And I'm right here, baby."

Jay leaned in, cupping your cheeks before pulling you into a slow, deliberate kiss. the kind that made your breath catch a little. Sunghoon let out a low whistle. Jake coughed, "Jesus—get a room."

Someone from the team yelled, "Okay lover boy, bag her already!"

You just smirked against his lips, kissing him again like you weren't planning to stop anytime soon.