#also idk when that first drawing is from I know it was a while ago

[slightoffoot]

Nureyev sketch dump?? Nureyev sketch dump from over the last year-ish anyone???

Edit: if you see inconsistencies no you didn’t (took me a while to figure out how to draw his facial features)

[mildcicada]

[softsunnyy]

mean luke with a piss kink🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️

i tried not to get carried away, i swear

🚨 piss kink, u peeing on his dick, him making you not go to the bathroom ?? idk 🚨

poorly written

it started almost two hours ago. You hadn't even realized his plan. Not at first.

Luke kept giving you glasses of water, distracting you with meaningless conversation so you wouldn't notice. Then he started making you laugh, saying and doing silly things just to get a smile out of you. And don't get me wrong, he loves hearing you laugh. He takes pride in knowing he's the reason you smile so much, having the chance to see your face transform into one of pure joy. However, right now his intentions aren't so pure, and he's not doing it for the usual reasons. No.

he does it to see the way you shift in your seat, unconsciously at first, feeling the urge to pee slowly creep in as your belly begins to swell. He does it to see your panicked face when you wanna excuse yourself and get up to go to the bathroom and he says no, telling you to stay seated. God, your eyes widen, and you stammer, trying to make sure you heard correctly.

but of course you did.

and you try to act normal, because you wanna be good, but when he started running a hand up your inner thigh, you knew you were lost.

he does it so he can see you so, so desperate.

and that led to your current situation, with your boyfriend running his fingers between your folds, admiring how your fluids soak his fingers, leaving them shiny and slippery, and making it even easier to slide them into your tight hole.

you whimper, which makes Luke smile; it makes him move his fingers faster, like he forgot that his hands are big, going inside of you so deep that you can feel yourself almost releasing. And you try to warn him, but you can only put a hand on his arm, squeezing it tightly as you try to close your legs. Luckily, he seems to understand, because he immediately looks at you, slowing down the speed with which he slides his fingers into your walls.

“don't even think about it,” he warned, a smug grin on his face. He can feel your pussy spasming, your walls smothering him to try to hold back your juices, terrified of embarrassing yourself by peeing on his hand.

“i can't, Lu, i need…” he moved his fingers harder, deeper, drawing a moan from you so you wouldn't finish your sentence.

“nothing, you don't need anything,” he said, then slipped his fingers out of your pussy, watching your hole throb, wanting to be filled once more.

this drove him to go faster, so he began to remove his clothes, an image that distracted you.

you can feel your pussy drooling as you watched his muscles with every movement, or his chest and abdomen covered in old and new marks you'd left on other occasions. And your legs tremble, opening slowly and obscenely for him when he finally releases his cock, hard, big, swollen and ready for you.

Luke wastes no time, shoving it into your hole before you can even think about holding back your pee, and he's hard, so rough that you try to hit his arm, as a way of begging him for mercy.

his cock is so deep inside your pussy that you can feel it everywhere, and the pressure in your belly begins to increase as he moves, sliding in and out, while he teases, talking about how you squeeze him, how you take him so well, like a good whore.

and he knows what he's doing when he places one of his hands on the bulge in your belly, making your eyes water, and making you feel a huge pressure and desperation. Luke moves fast, harder and harder, and you drool, babble, try to beg, but you can only moan his name like a broken record, using your hands to scratch his back, leaving reddish lines on his skin as a result of all this play.

and he enjoys it, of course he does. Because he loves the way you try to close your legs, and your walls throb, tighter even as he expands them every time he slides in. He knows you're trying to hold back, trying not to let your pee flow, but he also knows you're gonna fail, because your hands are shaking, your toes are curling, and he's putting more and more pressure on the bulge in your belly.

his cock slides in and out, hammering inside you, hitting your cervix, filling you completely, while you receive him, like his good girl, like he's trained you.

teases and taunts come out of his mouth, which you're already somewhat accustomed to, and which only serve to turn you on even more. And he smiles, talking about how well you're taking him, how hard you're squeezing him, how you should get his cock completely wet, until you start to feel the knot forming, too fast and intense.

you don't even have time to warn him when your eyes squeeze shut and your moans turn to whimpers, your juices running down your folds, over his cock, down your thighs, making a mess. And he can feel your hot fluids, your scent of arousal. He can see your face turning red with embarrassment, and it makes Luke explode, moving more wildly, more primal, not giving you time to rest, watching your juices spurt everywhere, making an obscene, sticky sound, until he finally reaches his orgasm, filling you with strips and strips of his cum, until you feel stuffed again.

Luke feels like he unlocked something, because he'll never forget your panic, your desperation, and the way your body reacted to his touch. And maybe he'll want to try more. Maybe he'll try to push himself to the limit, until he can't hold it anymore and pee on you while you're in the shower, or while he's inside you. Maybe even while you're eating his dick.

the mere thought of his juices running down your body, marking you in a more intimate, possessive, disgusting, and obsessive way, made him feel something different in his chest. An emotion he'd never experienced before.

so prepare yourself for the teasing, the torture, but also for this new world of pleasure, where you'll end up accepting whatever Luke wants to give you, no matter what it is, even if it means humiliating yourself to the limit.

it's what you would do for your boyfriend.

[cyripticchronicler]

Hii idk if you take requests rn so feel free to ignore this! (first time requesting, kinda nervous)

I loved all of your marauders works (and CM too btw), and I desperately need a remus x shy!reader smut if you’re comfortable (can be fem or gn)

imagine this, he has to initiate most milestones in their relationship and be patient and understanding. BUT when they slowly build up to sex she’s all blushy and tense because she’s not in complete control of what’s happening and she discovers that’s she actually wants to be the dominant one.

idk if it makes sense i hope it does

also i had my birthday just a few days ago so it could be birthday sex☺️

thank youuu

Confetti and Cupcakes (18+)

Pairing: Remus Lupin x Fem!Reader

Summary: Remus Lupin had planned the perfect, intimate celebration for your birthday. As the night winds down, still drunk on the glee that was the day, you realise that a need to take control rests under your shy demeanour. Remus is more than happy to oblige.

TW: Smut, pda, reader getting eaten out, not that proofread (lmk if there are any mistakes!)

A/N: Happy late birthday sweetie!! I cried over Supernatural while writing this and then my cat brought it a bird :( Enjoy!

Masterlist Remus Lupin Masterlist

It was your birthday.

You had a party hat on your head, confetti in your hair, and sore cheeks from smiling so much in the last hour, the giddy feeling rushing through your body. 

You didn’t want to do much - just spend time with people you were comfortable with. Remus had promised to organise a little get-together, telling you to just ‘relax and look pretty.’ You blushed for what felt like forever before agreeing. And you were thankful you did. 

Despite only being together for four months, Remus knew you like the back of his hand. He knew exactly how you’d want to celebrate. His shared apartment with Sirius and James was decorated with many pink and white balloons, sunlight pouring through the window and giving them a sheer-like look. 

He made sure to keep the decorations to a minimum, not wanting to overwhelm you, knowing how shy you were with these things. Though he couldn’t stop Sirius from grabbing a popper from behind his back and spraying confetti everywhere, regretfully. Remus made sure to only invite people he was sure you’d be comfortable around; James, Sirius, Lily, Marlene and Alice. 

You were grateful that Remus considered your quiet demeanour when planning. You weren’t comfortable in large groups of people you didn’t know well, and you didn’t like too much attention on you. This was why Remus organised a movie night where everybody’s attention was on your favourite movie instead of you. 

He was lazing beside you, having initiated a cuddle session, your head resting on his chest, cheeks flushed as you struggled to pay attention to the movie. “You okay, lovie?” He kisses behind your ear and your heart flutters in response. “Yeah. Thank- thanks for tonight. I love it.” His fingers traced small patterns on your arm, some drawings of hearts, others of stars.

You want to hug him back more, instead of just a hand on his leg. You want to shove your head in his neck, wrap your arms around his chest and tangle your legs with his. But your nervousness is too strong, you're too shy. Longing pulls at your heart, but you can’t muster up enough courage to do anything about it. 

His cheek squished against your head, the arm wrapped around your arm pulling you impossibly tighter. “Of course. You deserve it.” He craned his neck to whisper in your ear, breath hot against your skin, emitting goosebumps. “Do you want to sneak off for a moment? I’ve got a cupcake and candle prepared for you; I figured you wouldn’t want everyone watching you.” 

You nod and then he’s pulling you into his body, dragging you into his bedroom. Sirius wolf whistles and you visibly cringe, a hand moving to cover your face. 

You hear Remus leave, hurrying to the kitchen before returning. His calloused hand reaches up to grip your wrist, slowly pulling it away from your face to reveal your heated cheeks. 

Candlelight flickers in his bright eyes, placed atop a pink-iced cupcake that he holds in his other hand. He sings a quiet and warm rendition of ‘Happy Birthday,’ the low timber of his voice sweet like honey to your ears. 

Butterflies in your stomach and your cheeks ablaze, you quickly blow the candle out and let out a quiet giggle, pressing a hand to your mouth as happiness warms your bones. 

“Thank you, Remus. I love you.” He places the cupcake to the side and with his hands on your cheeks he pulls you into a sweet, desperate kiss. Shivers trail down your spine yet you kiss him back, nervousness bubbling in your stomach. 

“I love you, too.” He pecks your lips again. “Let’s go back out; don’t want them getting the wrong idea.” You let him pull you back into the living room, cupcake in your hands as you continue cuddling on the sofa. 

⋆˙⟡🪶─ .✦📜⊹₊ ݁.

Remus was cleaning up, sleeves rolled up his arms, and his hair was over his forehead. You watched from the couch, fingers fiddling together, while your heart fluttered in the way it always did when you watched him. 

He looked up and caught your gaze, draining the kitchen sink and wiping his wet hands. He smiled, walking over to you. “You’re staring,” He teased.

Your cheeks burned, tilting your head back to look at him as he towered over your sitting form. “No,” You denied pathetically. 

“It’s okay if you are.” He tilts your head up gently, fingers warm against your skin. “I stare at you all the time.” Your stomach rolled at his words. 

“Oh.” You laugh nervously, clenching your sweaty hands. His lips perk up, nose slowly trailing up your heated cheek before moving his lips to meet yours. 

Your eyes fluttered shut. His lips were warm and familiar, unhurried as he leaned into you. Your breath hitched, a shaking hand moving to grip the hair at the nape of his neck. 

His hand moved to cup your jaw, thumb rubbing soothingly against your cheek. He deepens the kiss, leaning into your body, your back slumped against the couch. 

A sigh breaks out of your lips when he pulls away, having to bite your lip to stop yourself from pulling him back into you. He doesn’t stray far from you, his cheeks flushed red and his lips swollen. He manoeuvres so he’s sitting beside you.

“Let me know if I’m going too fast, okay?” You nod, mind whirring with nerves and excitement mixed together. His lips return to yours again, more intense this time. The kiss deepened and you felt his hand slide up the back of your neck. 

A shiver went down your spine at the passion that poured into the kiss, the pounding of your heart suddenly overwhelming. Thoughts raced through your mind before you could stop them. Were you doing this right? Does he notice how much you’re shaking? The knot in your stomach grew until you hesitated, pulling back ever so slightly despite your body’s protests. 

Remus noted your hesitation and stopped immediately, his forehead still brushing yours yet his eyebrows were furrowed ever so slightly. “Are you okay?” His thumb kept brushing against your skin, almost lulling you to sleep. “We can stop.”

You shook your head, waves of frustration at your nerves bubbling to the surface. “No. I don’t want to stop,” you blurt, words pouring out of your mouth before you can stop them.

He smiled gently, a hint of amusement laced in his eyes. “Okay. Just tell me what you need.” 

What you needed. The question hung in the air, waiting to be answered. You find a spark of courage buried deep inside you and grip it tightly. 

Choosing not to think about your actions too much, you shifted closer and brought your hands up to hold Remus’ face in your hands. Surprise flickered in his eyes, fueling your desire. You leaned in, pressing your lips to his again, the kiss no longer soft and hesitant, but now determined.

Remus let out a low sound of surprise, his hands instinctively moving to your waist, letting you take the lead as your fingers slipped into his soft hair once again, kissing him harder. 

With your heart pounding for an entirely new reason, you pulled back, shoulders shaking with laboured breaths. His eyes darkened slightly, his lips parted as though he wanted to say something but couldn’t find the words. 

“Well,” He murmured after a beat, voice low and raspy with desire. “This is new.”

Your lip travels between your teeth, embarrassment colouring your cheeks when you realise how bold you have been. “Was that- is that…okay?”

His hands brushed up and down your sides, and the heat of his hands fell through the thin fabric of your T-shirt. “More than okay,” He muttered, lips curving into a crooked smile. “I like you when you’re like this.”

A grin paints your face as the nervousness shaking your bones melts into a warm sort of freedom. With your nerves settled you're much more comfortable with shifting your legs on either side of his thighs. 

His hands grip your waist gently, his eyes flicking up to yours. Despite the surprise that costs his features, his eyes darken, and your pulse quickens at the sight. 

“Is this okay?” You breathlessly ask, fingers skimming the collars of his sweater, your actions growing bolder as you push the sweater up, revealing a strip of pale skin. 

You fiddle with the hem of his sweater and he hums, bringing his hands to your back. “More than okay, love. Do whatever you want to me.” You clench your hands around the fabric, yanking slightly. “Can we…go to your room?”

“Lead the way.” You stand up, trying not to look awkward. You take his hand in yours, pulling his arm behind you as you head to his room. High on dopamine, you let out a shy giggle, using your back to nudge his door open, eyes still tracked on Remus’ eyes that swim with desire. 

The back of your knees hit the edge of his plush bed, and you pull Remus to your chest, spinning you both around so you can push him down on the bed. The mattress sinks below his body as he props himself on his elbows. 

You stand there for a moment, some of your earlier nervousness bubbling up. One look at the way Remus looks at you - so filled with love and care - has you pushing that anxiety down, replaced with a fire-filled lust.

Your legs return to their earlier destination astride his lap, hands resting on his shoulders. “I don’t…I’m not sure what to do,” You admit embarrassedly. Sure, you’ve had sex before but not with someone who makes you feel as though you’re on top of the universe like Remus does. 

He nods in understanding, a kind smile tracing his lips. His right hand gently rubs your thigh, dangerously close to your core. “Do whatever makes you feel good.” Biting your lip in acknowledgement, you trail your lips up his throat and place wet, sloppy kisses at his pulse point. 

His responsive groans have your legs squeezing tighter around his hips, your core clenching around nothing. You nip and suck at a spot behind his ear, hips subconsciously moving against his. 

His large hands grip your waist, fingers digging into your skin. Gently shoving his hands off, you grip the hem of your shirt and yank it off in quick movements, arms circling his neck and pulling him into a desperate kiss, hips still thrusting eagerly.

A lone finger trails down the crease of your spin, a low moan emitting from your mouth, muted by his lips. He undoes the strap of your bra with one quick movement of his hand and you pull away to let the straps fall down your arms, chucking the flimsy fabric somewhere random. “I love you,” you whisper. 

“I love you so much, too,” he murmurs back, his eyes half-lidded and hazy, looking up at yours in adoration.

You move onto his shirt next, ripping the clothing off and lightly scratching your nails down his chest. His lips find your jaw, leaving passionate kisses over your heated skin. You throw your head back in pleasure, a loud moan falling from your parted lips. 

Hands trailing down his bare chest, you hook your fingers in the belt loops of his trousers before moving to take them off completely, shaking hands moving to the zipper. 

You move off of him so he can take them off completely, pulling down your pants and kicking them to the side. He stands, bare in just his boxers and pulls you into him by the waist, head tilted as he captures you in a slow, gentle kiss. 

“You’re perfect, Y’know?” His words were slurred like he was drunk. You can’t help but shy away from his gaze, finding it ridiculous that you're shy, even at a time like this. “So are you.” Your hands trace the thin lines of his scars, meaning every word you say. It’s his turn to blush and you kiss his reddened cheeks before moving to lie down in the middle of the bed.

Remus is quick to follow you, towering over your flushed frame, arms on either side of your head. He leans down to plant a kiss on your swollen lips, a sharp burst of pleasure exploding in your stomach. 

He slowly trails downwards, open mouth grazing against your skin before his lips wrap around your breast, sucking and biting gently. You push his head down further, his chuckle fanning across your bare stomach until you have him where you want.

He places a kiss over your clothed clit and a shudder runs through you. “Can you-“  You don’t even get your sentence out before he’s got your underwear down your legs. 

“Don’t even have to ask.” And then he’s eating you out like a man starved. A hand in his hair is enough for you to control his movements, tugging and relishing in the groans that shake your core. 

Your legs move to rest across his shoulders, the heels of your feet pressing into his back. Your hips thrust up, his nose nudging against your clit as you hold his face to your core. 

Your legs shake and tighten around his neck, back arching against the mattress. Your body was on fire, each flick of his tongue and grip of his hands against your thighs setting off fireworks deep in your core, the tight bubble of your pleasure ready to burst at any moment. 

And it does burst. Loud moans escape your parted lips, your body convulsing in pleasure, sweat dripping down your sticky skin. “Fuck.”

He pulls away when his touches become too sensitive, bringing his cum-soaked fingers between his lips, groaning at the taste. You shove your head into the pillow at the sight, an embarrassed whine falling from your lips that has him chuckling smugly. 

His chuckle turns into a quiet moan, your hand having trailed down to palm him through the thin fabric of his boxers. His head falls to the crook of your neck, hand moving between the waistband of his boxers to grip his growing cock.

You pull his dick out, gripping the edge of his tip and using the leaking precum to stroke him tightly. His heavy breaths fan your neck, his hips thrusting into your fist, intoxicated by your touch.

His heavy moans have your mind spinning, your confidence growing each time he calls out your name. You’re prepared to make him cum like this but he pulls away before he can. “If I’m going to cum, it’s going to be inside you, my love. Is that okay?”

Butterflies flutter in your stomach. “It’s more than okay…Can I- can I be on top? Please?” Eyes dark with desire, he nods without any hesitation, kicking his boxers off and leaning against the headboard of his bed. 

You straddle him, holding his dick as you slowly sink down on him, mouth falling open at the delicious stretch. “Remus,” You cry, hands clawing at his shoulders.

“I know, baby. I know.” You experimentally roll your hips, his dick skipping further inside you. His hands land on your body, one fondling your breast while the other moves to your core and tightly circles your clit. 

Slowly, pain turns into pleasure and your hips roll faster, back arching as his thick tip hits your walls. “You feel so good,” Remus moans out, his hair stuck to his forehead.

Inhibitions gone, your moans fill the room, hips slapping together whilst you chase your high, sheer determination and lust fogging your mind. His arms are familiar and comforting, wrapped around your waist while he pulls you in for a kiss, a clash of teeth and a fight for dominance. 

The smell of sweat fills the room, the orange of the evening sunset pouring through the open windows and emitting a golden glow over your two bodies. Remus had never looked prettier, a furrow between his brows and low whines escaping his lips. 

It’s no surprise that you finish as fast as you do, with the way his hips slam up against yours and his hands grope anything he can touch, you're a goner, putty in his gentle grip. “Remus I’m going to-“ 

You're crying out before you can finish your sentence, the coil in your stomach snapping and unwinding quickly and you gasp loudly. 

Wetness drips down your inner thighs, the tight clenching of your core enough to bring Remus to his completion, his grip tightening and his thrusts stuttering. 

He slumps against the headboard with a satisfied groan and you follow suit, breasts pressed up against his sweaty, glistening chest. “That was amazing,” You state, cheeks flushing at the thought of what you two had just done, shyness already returning. 

He chuckles at your red skin and the way you avoid his eyes, pinching your cheek playfully. “Happy birthday, honey.” 

Best. Present. Ever

[moonstruckmoony]

A Ravenclaw Lunch 🦅

Drew some of my favorite Ravenclaws on this platform. Although one isn't necessarily a Ravenclaw. (@traceyc-uk I genuinely thought he was a Ravenclaw when I first saw him lol but I saw your comment reply somewhere that your first playthrough was Ravenclaw so I think this counts… a bit? 😂)

This post is basically a peace offering (and a love letter) bcs I want to make more Ravenclaw friends 👀👉🏻👈🏻 definitely not because I'm obsessed with you guys' MCs

I swear it was supposed to be a silly doodle at first but idk how or when down the line but somehow it turned into this mega drawing. Took me weeks to finish it. I’m not happy with a few technical things especially lights and shadows… and some other things as well but I leave it be bcs I’m aware that I’m still learning 🥲 The rest I’m pretty satisfied with, I’m just happy that I got to finally finish this.

Front row (left to right):

Violet and Pearl Castellar by @vienguinn Omg HAPPY BELATED BELATED BIRTHDAY TO THESE BABIES! These 2 are some of my favorites and everytime you post I always open my phone real quick, your short comics are my comfort 🩵

Clora Clemons by @choccy-milky I cannot not draw Clora?!!?! I consider you a legend in this fandom tbh 👑 also I want to thank you bcs your fic and illustrations literally helped me go through my stressful period when I was at my lowest bcs of my new demanding job that I started half a year ago. I look forward to your post everytime and your Clora and Seb always heals my soul 😭🩵💚

Sally Salamander by @siboom777 Sally is just so wacky and unapologetically herself and I love her for it 🩵 Does she take commissions for toys tho?

Marvin Jerry by @runicxraven MY LOVELY SILLY ADORABLE LITTLE NERD 💗💗💗💗 I need more Marvin in my life honestly.

@najiang ‘s MC - I’m so so sorry I didn’t draw her full face😭, I tried my best to show her face as much as I can while still looking like she’s taking those sausages haha. But anyway please know that I love your art so so much and I kept going back to the curry one and the one where MC came across Amit with beard as adults (that one is hilarious). Idk if your MC has a name or you left it nameless? I assume it was the latter but if she has one I’d love to know!

Faustine Daemon by @faustinio27 Hey, a fellow INFJ! Winter is the same 🩵 I really love her story and especially her personality character sheet, you drew her expressions really well and I’m a fan!

Back row (left to right):

Oliver Lennox by @pixie-dustss Handsome boi 🥰 We’re friends already (I hope I’m not the only one who thinks that way 🫢) from TikTok and you made me a video for Secret Santa last year and I just found out recently that you’re on Tumblr too so I want to say thanks by drawing Oliver! 🩵🩵🩵

Aurélie Collins by @morelikeravenbore I loove this look for Aura, she just looks so chic with the hat and scarf 😭🩵 Sassy Ravenclaw bebe 🥰 My Winter has some French heritage (the lore is still rotting in my notebook bcs I haven’t had the chance to draw her family members 🥲) so I do hope they can be friends and Aura would teach her French bcs she can’t speak much of it 👉🏻👈🏻

Alistair Dusk by @speedysart Surprise! You commented on my last speedpaint on Tiktok yesterday and I want to spill this art so bad but I was almost done so I kept my mouth shut haha. I love the pretty boi’s hair and piercings, and the fact that you chose this blazer for him, I just love it he looks so dapper in that 😣🩵

Eleonora Russel by @zordanna I love sweet Eleonora and her fascination with the moon and stars 🩵🌌 Oh and I kept coming back to your “I feel like an orange” Tiktok bcs it’s so fluffy and it heals my stress… also I adore your art it’s super soft and painty and delicate 🥹💗

@traceyc-uk ‘s MC - YOUR MC. I SWEAR TO MERLIN HE’S ON MY MIND 24/7 LATELY. Not sure why, it’s probably bcs I kept re-reading your comics. Also bcs he’s an adorable little golden retriever (but also a fierce cat!😼) You’re super talented in drawing comics and facial expressions, I have a lot to learn especially in terms of layouting… last time I made a comic I hated the layout and the fact that it looks stiff to me, so your comics has been such an inspiration!

[piliiiiconfusionf]

It took him a while but he got there-

OK this is a doodle dump for @nebrasska-alasska's fic Tethered at the Wrist which is the only fic I have been able to actually follow in a long time AND probably first slow burn I got invested on- 🤣 it's so good so I had to make some fanart- the dancing chapter hasn't left me alone but IDK. HOW TO DRAW PEOPLE DANCING so here are these instead because these ALSO wouldn't leave me alone, that's how you know a writing is good, absolutely great kudos for you

(I also have some really old doodles I made of the old chapters-- why not share them now before they keep getting dust, under the cut 🤣)

These were from months ago when I was first losing my mind with my friend while reading it--- we do every week 🤣🤣🤣

[lotusloong]

If you're willing, can you write a fic about Netflix!Monkey King based on this drawing from a while ago? https://www.tumblr.com/monkeykingdomblog2/750199169881341952/that-moment-when-you-think-youre-kissing-your?source=share

An Accident

Relationship: Netlfix!Sun Wukong X Female Golden Princess of Cauldron County!Reader (also known as Goldie)

AN: Alright friendo, I'm gonna be completely honest, this was a toughy! I love Netflix Wukong but he is surprisingly hard to wright in a romantic sense in the time frame of the movie. I don't know why he's like this for me, he just is (post movie I have no problem writing and I think it's because he's changed so much by that point?). So I tried my best to kinda do a crush scenario, I really hope I did it justice? Idk, because of the difficulty I had I feel a little insecure about this one lol. Takes place during the fight with Red Girl.

Tags: Fluff, First Kiss, Canon Typical Violence

Read it on AO3!

“Uh, pardon me, Monkey King?” You ask, stepping closer to him with your hands clasped. The ruby colored monkey in question raises an eyebrow at you as he walks with his stick balanced over his shoulders, smiling.

“What’s up Princess? Need something?” You lower your hands but keep them clasped in front of you, keeping your posture straight as you walk in time with the monkey.

“Uhm, yes,” you start, “I was wondering when it was exactly that I would be brought home? I am, once again, grateful that you saved me but…we seem to be travelling further and further away from my kingdom.” You gesture towards the countryside around you, nothing but crops and fields for miles. The only mark of civilization is the small town up ahead.

“Don’t worry Goldie, Stick and I will get you back safe and sound! I just need to get that 100th demon and we’ll be good to go! Oh, bringing you back is definitely gonna help me get in with the Immortals, saving a princess is classic hero work!” He looks to the stick balanced over the back of his neck, which vibrates encouragingly in green. You give a nervous chuckle, looking between the two as you walk. Your gold embroidered robes feel heavy as you go, their bulk not really meant for long journeys through the countryside. 

Truly, you are grateful to the monkey for saving your life. The monster that had kidnapped you from your home had nearly destroyed your kingdom’s army, but in one fell swoop the ruby simian in front of you had knocked the demon out cold. He had struck a heroic pose just for you, claiming to be your savior and insisting to ‘hold your applause’. A little put off by his attitude but still grateful, you had thanked him profusely, reassuring him that your father would have a great reward for him for saving your life.

The monkey had jumped around in excitement at your words, raving to his weapon about how lucky they were you had been kidnapped. You didn’t really know how to respond to his words.

And somehow you ended up here, following this simian as he fought demon after monster all across China. 

For every one he defeated, you asked if you could finally make your way back home. His answer was always the same. Despite the anxiety slowly building in your gut the longer you were away from your country, you couldn’t say you…disliked being out. Just by following this strange monkey you had already seen more of the world in a couple days than you had your whole life.

It certainly didn’t hurt that your travelling companion was...cute. Perhaps it was because he saved your life, but you couldn’t deny that you liked him. Silky cherry red fur, bright green eyes, a mischievous smile that made your heart race, and that adorable little heart print on his nose…

You cough awkwardly into your fist, embarrassed by your thoughts. You stare at the dirt road in front of you as your group keeps walking. You’re so consumed by your thoughts you don’t notice the monkey watching you as you walk. The magic stick vibrating drags your attention back to them, the monkey playfully spinning the pole and holding it in front of him to speak.

“What was that?”

Green and blue flash over the pole, its vibrations loud and clear.

“Wh-What!? I don’t even-! That’s crazy, no way.” More vibrations. “I do not! And if I ever did, which I do not, it wouldn’t be on some human! No matter how pretty!” You raise an eyebrow at the monkey as he talks, curious as to what this one-sided conversation is about. When he notices your look, he turns away from you, his voice hushed and urgent as he talks to his stick.

“Okay, okay fine! Maybe a little one! Now pipe down before she hears you, okay?” You bite your bottom lip, unsure if you should laugh or be uncomfortable by this conversation that's clearly about you. His earlier words hit you with full force.

Did he think you were pretty-?

“We’ll talk about it later! Just don’t do anything-” The monkey points his finger at the stick in his hand, as if reprimanding it, only to be distracted and do a double take at the wooden gate entrance to the village you had been wandering towards. You pause, grateful for the distraction so you can calm your burning cheeks as the monkey rushes forward. You watch as he steps up to the gate, slinging his stick back over his shoulders and taking a deep breath in.

“Alright…show time. Ninety-nine demons down, one to go.” Stick gives a vibration of encouragement as they step into the village proper. You follow behind, taking in the sight of the village as Monkey calls for the locals. Empty storefronts, dry dirt streets, broken signs and abandoned carts everywhere. Suspicion and unease settle into your gut, and you leap forwards to all but plaster yourself to the red monkey’s back. He looks back at you, surprised but not upset.

“Relax Goldie, it’s okay. You know I can take on anything that wants to start trouble.” He reassures you. You bite your lip and nod, still sticking close to him as you walk.

You feel a pressure on your wrist and are about to scream when you look down. Monkey’s fluffy red tail loops around your forearm, squeezing comfortably. You glance up to see him smiling, before he turns and gently leads you towards a building. The pressure of his tail feels comforting as the eerie streets stretch out away from you. Monkey knocks on the door, fingers tapping away at Stick as the three of you stand and wait for someone to answer.

“Where is everyone?” He mutters. You look around and startle as you spot the face of a child ducking behind a corner. Monkey sees them as well, frowning and shrugging before kicking the door open.

“Anyone need a hero?” He steps inside with a flourish, his tail uncoiling from around your arm as he steps inside. You miss the warmth immediately, gripping at your wrist with your other hand as if to mimic the feeling. Voices call out from various hiding spots across the room, telling your rescuer to be quiet and leave them in peace.

You make your way to a seat, sighing in relief as your feet are finally given a rest after so much walking. You pile the folds of cloth that make up your robes onto your lap and the table, grateful for the support it gives your shoulders now that they don’t carry the weight by themselves. You roll your neck and shoulders to stretch them out, flexing your toes inside your shoes. When your eyes flutter open again, Monkey is staring at you with a contemplative look. He shakes his fur out, slamming the door behind him now that you’re inside.

“The name’s Monkey King!” He starts. You relax further into your seat, comfortable to watch as your companion makes a mess of the room, showing off his skills. You giggle into your hands as he smashes nearly everything, the villagers glaring doubtfully at the two of you. Without asking, Monkey grabs himself a bowl of rice and chopsticks, setting Stick down next to you to lean against the edge of the table. He hops on top of the table itself, making himself comfortable and eating with you right next to him.

“I’ve never heard of you.” A stern faced woman speaks, sucking on a stick of candy.

“Well, I’ve never heard of you either.” Monkey snarks, and Stick vibrates in yellow. You snort, covering your mouth with the sleeve of your hanfu. The villagers glare at you, and you clear your throat awkwardly, sitting up straighter.

“Look, I’m travelling with a princess. One I rescued. I’m the real deal guys, trust me.” The villagers give you searching looks, eyeing the gold embroidery and silk material of your robes. Your fingers clench and unclench the fabric beneath them, the desire to fidget under their scrutiny overwhelming. The lessons on etiquette you’ve taken since birth hold you back, the phantom pain of whacked knuckles keeping you in check.

“Why would a princess travel with a monkey after being rescued, instead of going home?” The stern faced lady asks, crossing her arms. Monkey glares back at her, taking a spiteful bite of rice.

“Why wouldn’t a princess want to travel with me? I saved her life! I’m taking her home, we’re just stopping to do some more hero work on the way.” 

“Uh huh, yeah, sure. Get rid of them.” The lady orders. Someone else, her husband you would presume, steps forward and tries ushering the three of you out. Monkey’s tail is suddenly curled tight around your shoulders as he pulls you all further into the building, not ready to give in yet. 

Things escalate when the kid bursts in. 

The young girl starts helping your monkey, praising him and hyping up his incredible skill. When she moves closer to you, Monkey pulls you away, keeping himself and Stick in-between you and the stranger. She seems harmless enough, but your heart still flutters at the protective glare Monkey is sending her way.

“You actually know who he is?” You ask her, smiling politely. 

“Of course! I'm his number one fan!” She boasts proudly. You notice her gaze shift away nervously before she steps towards the villagers, trying to coax them into a deal. You send a glance of your own to Monkey, suspicious of her behavior. With your high position in the Golden Cauldron Country it had been drilled into you to read people, to understand their true intentions despite the words they speak. This kid isn't lying, exactly, but you can tell she's hiding something.

Monkey shrugs at you, turning his attention back to villagers and negotiating. You settle back down, letting your aching feet rest a little more before you have to head out again.

“-ten free guitar lessons.”

“Uhg, deal, whatever.” The stern faced woman agrees. 

“Hold up! And-” Monkey turns and gestures towards you, “some more comfortable traveling clothes for my princess. Something soft and comfortable she can travel in.” Your cheeks burn at the casual possessiveness of him calling you ‘his’, but you find you don't…quiet mind. You duck your head, feeling bashful but pleased. 

The stern faced woman looks you over, pulling her candy stick from her mouth and pointing it at you. 

“You keep this monkey under control, I'll get you something decent.” She says. You nod, hands clasped politely in front of you. Just in time too, as outside you hear the familiar roaring of a demon.

“Oh no! Please, don’t let it hurt my innocent child!” The older man begs Monkey, clasping his hands in front of him. Monkey brushes him aside, his tail coiling around your forearm once more and pulling you behind him as he walks.

“Don’t worry. Sooner I slay it, the faster we get to celebrating me and my accomplishments!” You follow willingly, hearing the girl huff behind you. Monkey doesn’t spare her a second glance, but he does give you one. Before you actually step outside the building he pulls you close and speaks in hushed tones.

“Alright Goldie, you know what you do?” 

“Stay close to you and within sight, don’t take any unnecessary risks. You can handle the demon, I stay out of the way.” You recite from memory the steps you’ve been following for every fight Monkey gets into. If you stray too far it means the demon he’s fighting can grab you - staying close means he can keep an eye on your safety and move you if needed.

“Good girl.” You duck your head at the praise, stepping into the afternoon sunlight once more. “Let's get demon one-hundred dead and done, then after I ascend we can take you home.” 

Today seems to be a day of lucky timing, as within moments Monkey finds the fire demon, right in the center of town in the middle of stealing a child. The second he sees the two figures in the street he rushes forward, knocking the small girl across the face with a harsh ‘thwack’ from Stick that sends her flying.

Well, that was fast.

You’re about to start clapping when the girl from earlier rushes towards Monkey, looking frantic.

“What are you doing!?” She cries. Monkey looks at her like she’s grown a second head.

“Uh, joining the Immortal Ones? What else?” He turns and looks straight at you, puffing his chest and posing with Stick. “Goldie! What did you think? Kinda boring that it took one hit but hey! Impressive anyways, right?” He chuckles, preening under your gaze. You give a polite clap, smiling at him, as the large child he just saved rushes past you and into the arms of his father.

“Very heroic, yes!” You praise, happy to indulge him.

There was still a lot about Monkey you didn’t know, but even in your short journey together you had picked up on things. Mainly, his desire for recognition. You could only guess why he felt the need to be seen and accepted by every living thing around him, but even without knowing you could still empathize with him. 

There had been…moments, on the road. He had been quiet and thoughtful as you walked, looking out at the distant horizon eastwards. He had seemed…lonely.

You didn’t like seeing him like that.

“You’re the worst daddy ever!” 

And he just kicked a child in the head.

Okay, you never said he was perfect or anything. As you pinched the bridge of your nose, the girl came to your side, looking lost and confused as she watched Monkey.

“That was for free.” He told the mayor, who was currently staring at his son in shock as he recovered from being kicked to the side like a sack of rice. Despite the disapproval simmering in your belly, you couldn’t stop the snort that left you at his words. The girl gave you a confused look before startling at a sound behind you both. You turned to see the first child Monkey had hit with Stick climbing back over the fence, which promptly collapsed under her weight.

With a flourish she transformed, her true form coming to light. Immediately you rushed backwards and to Monkey’s side, his arm shooting out to cover you and push you further behind him. 

“How dare you challenge Red Girl, Monkey! Quake in my presence and bow down to me!” The fire imp before you summoned a golden spear, spinning it round and round as her flaming hair danced in the breeze. Monkey stepped forward, his tail brushing against you one last time as he spoke.

“Why don’t you leave these poor, unattractive people alone, huh? The two hottest people here have business to get to, so the faster you go down, the happier I’ll be.” He snarked. The peasant girl that was following you shot you a look at his words, and you shrugged in response, bashful. She shook her head in dismay, as if she couldn’t believe what she was hearing from her so-called ‘hero’. Yeah, you really weren’t buying that story.

Within moments after speaking, Monkey King was launching himself towards Red Girl with the help of Stick, giving an excited cry as they took to the air together. You watched on, sliding yourself closer to the peasant girl.

“So…you say you’re his number one fan?” You begin, watching her intently. Above you both, you heard Monkey’s voice as he snarked and quipped at the demon.

“U-uh, yeah! He’s super cool, able to just…fly up and fight demons like that…” Her voice sounds unsure, and she uses one arm to grip her other by the elbow, the picture of awkward uncertainty. You try to make your own body language relaxed, to lure her into a sense of security, while not giving anything away about your true thoughts.

“He is pretty impressive. Stick too, of course.” You notice her eyes shift at the mention of Stick, glancing up and then back at you within the fraction of a second.

Hmm.

“What did you say your name was?” You ask, leaning closer to her.

“L-Lin. My name is Lin, I’m…not from around here.” You open your mouth to ask more questions, but the sound of a crash interrupts you. You look up, startled to see fireballs being launched straight down and towards the village, crashing without guidance as the fight rages on.

“That monkey’s gonna burn down the whole village! I told you to keep him under control!” The mayor’s wife glares at you, and you can only offer a shrug in response. Lin looks between you two and then around the street, immediately rushing towards a bucket of water.

“C’mon everyone, grab some water!” She cries. You pick up the layers of your robes and rush towards the water tower, grabbing a bucket on the way. A villager is already at the spigot, distributing water to everyone who comes up. Your own bucket is filled and you rush back the way you came, intending to put out a blaze on the front steps of a building. 

The second you do, a gust of wind sends you stumbling, the form of Red Girl rushing past with trailing lights of green and purple. Stick is in her hands-oh no, Stick is in her hands-

You look frantically around the space for Monkey, your thoughts racing with all the worst possible outcomes of what could have happened. He's been burned to a crisp, she managed to stab him through his armor, he fell and can't get back up-

Another gust next to you as Red Girl goes flying past again, and this time, you do stumble and fall. The ground rushes up to meet you, and you brace yourself for the rough dry dirt to scratch you up-

But it doesn't come. 

Warm arms are wrapped around your waist, holding your weight with no effort as they straighten you back up. You look behind you to see Monkey, his grin wide and smug.

“I leave you alone for a few minutes and already you're tripping over yourself when I come back. You aren't falling for me, are you Goldie?” He teases, giving you a pointed eyebrow wiggle. Heat rises to your cheeks immediately, and you giggle at the silly face he makes.

“Thank you~” You coo, back on your own two feet. His hands stay on your waist. “That would have been a rough landing.”

“Of course, princess-” He starts, but his gaze snaps up to the sky, your own following. Red Girl is still spinning through the air, counting to herself. 

“four…five-”

“Fifteen!” Monkey calls out. He gives you a gentle nudge, jerking his head in her direction to prompt you. Your mind goes blank for a moment before you catch on to his game. 

“Fifty six!” You call. Monkey grins, pulling you by your waist down the road, following the demon as she flies. 

“Twenty four! Two! Eight!”

“S-seven? No, six! Wait-!”

“Thirty two! Twelve!”

The two of you keep calling out numbers as Stick wears the girl down, her screams of frustration echoing around the village. Within moments Stick turns towards the ground, spinning with such speed and power, he and the demon go straight down into the dirt. Monkey lets go of your waist to peer down into the hole, his hand out to catch Stick when he comes flying back out. You peer in as well, only to see darkness as the hole stretches down, down, and down. 

“You let go!” Monkey shouts. “WHOOOO! Woohoohoo!!” He does a little jig, wiggling his hips side to side as Stick does a rainbow display of light. You give a cheer of your own, clapping at their victory. 

The next moments happen so fast you weren't even sure what exactly happened until much later, when you had the privacy of your own thoughts to sort things out. 

Monkey turns to his Stick, leaning forward to press a quick kiss of gratitude against the metal. Stick clearly had other ideas, and with a quick jerk of himself, was suddenly behind your back, Monkey's hand still holding on to him tight. You turned your head at the motion of the two of them, only to feel a sudden pressure on your own lips you weren't expecting. Stick vibrates behind you, but Monkey doesn't even seem to notice what's happened. 

His eyes are closed, and his free hand immediately grabs into your hip for balance. You sit there, shocked, for only a few milliseconds before your own eyelashes flutter shut, and you kiss back. His black lips are just as soft as they look, and you can feel the size and shape of his canines pressing against your lips through his. The thought of him gliding those sharp teeth against the juncture of your neck sends a thrill down your spine, and you squeak. 

That sound draws a responding groan from Monkey, who's hand on your hip splays out, wrapping around to the small of your back and tugging you closer to him. Your hands tentatively reach up to his shoulders, the metal of his armor cool and rough under your fingers. He smells nice…a little musky from the fight and your travels, but also like fruit and mountain stone. You stay like that, lips pressed together, exploring each other gently as your brain melts into mush. 

Your first kiss…given to your hero…

With a sharp gasp he pulls away from you, eyes wide and panicked. You’re in shock, staring at him as you try to remember what breathing feels like again. His hand flexes where it’s still cradling the small of your back, his green eyes dilated wide as he watches your face for any reaction.

You can’t give one, still reeling from the feeling of him on you. It felt so…nice…gentle and sweet. You think…you think you want to do it again.

You swallow, gathering your courage. If you just…lean forward again you could-

“Stick!” Monkey pulls away from you, grabbing Stick with both hands and glaring at him. Stick vibrates in pink, a color you haven’t seen from him yet.

“Don’t you dare say that! It wouldn’t have happened had you not-! How could you do that! I-!” Monkey looks between Stick and you, a rising panic on his face. His breathing grows frantic, tail flicking in obvious agitation. 

“G-Goldie-! Princess! I-I am so-! That wasn’t supposed to happen-This jerk pulled me and-!” He gives Stick a shake, torn between glaring at the rod and looking apologetically at you. You take a deep breath to center yourself, trying to not take his words personally.

“I-it’s okay Monkey…I-...I didn’t really…mind?” You try to smile despite the overwhelming urge to hide coursing through your veins. He pauses, staring at you like he isn’t sure how to respond.

He doesn’t get a chance to try, Lin running up and stealing his attention away from you. You try to ignore the unhappy twinge in your gut at the girl interrupting you both.

“That was amazing! She fell right into your trap!” Monkey startles, shaking himself and putting his usual air of bravado on for the villagers.

“Wh-uh, right! One hundredth demon vanquished!” He spins Stick around on his shoulders, posing for the crowd gathering around you. Lin is still talking as Monkey walks away, his sights set on the mayor and his wife, both covered in soot.

“I offer myself as your humble assistant and weapon bearer.” The girl bows before Monkey, a pleading look on her face. Monkey looks genuinely shocked for a moment, his eyes flicking to you before narrowing on the girl.

“Wow, my own assistant? Hard pass.” He glares at her, gesturing to himself. “This monkey heroes alone.” 

“Wha-? But what about your girlfriend? She’s traveling with you!?” Lin cries, and you sputter in response. Monkey King looks just as taken aback, but you swear you see the red of his cheeks turn darker at her words.

“That-that's none of your business! You don’t know anything kid!” He snarls, tail curling behind him in displeasure. Lin looks desperately at you and you avoid her gaze, watching your feet as you walk over to Monkey. You aren’t sure how to process anything that just happened, and you just desperately want some space to figure things out and sort through your confusing feelings. You try to speak to Monkey, your voice sounding quiet even to your own ears.

“Uhm, Monkey? I-...I need to-...can we talk-?” You stutter, your train of thought moving at a million miles a second as you try to think of the right words you want to say. Monkey looks at you, an unreadable expression on his face.

“...Yeah. Yeah, later we can.” He turns away from you and back to the mayor. “In the meantime, you got my big victory speech ready, right?”

“Uh…well…” The mayor looks at the ruins that were his village, soot and burned down homes littering the streets.

“Well, grab a scroll and take notes! Cause it’s party time!” Monkey flicks a curler from the mayor’s wife's head, the burning material bouncing away and landing amongst the fireworks shop. The stern faced woman’s voice echoes all the way to the heavens as sparklers and fireworks shoot skyward with an explosion of color and noise.

“Crazy monkey!”

[livelaughloveluffy]

The straw hat crew with reader who likes to give them compliments, but hates it when the crew gives reader compliments?

compliments - with the straw hat crew

a/n: ahhh thank you for the request!! it's been a long time since i've written a fic like this, so hopefully i can do it some justice!! 💗 (i like skimmed proof-read this so forgive me if there is some grammatical and spelling errors 😭😭)

a/n: (also sorry, the sanji girlie in me is always going to bring it back to sanji, so yeah... there's some sanji x reader in here too 😭😭😭)

a/n: ((sorry idk how to tag this guys 😭😭😭😭😭😭))

word count: fuck idk man, its kinda long though (hehehe that's what she said)

nothing but fluff here💗

---------------------------------------------------------------------

it has only been two weeks since you first joined the straw hat pirates, and it was definitely a huge change of pace from your life before them. the crew, as eccentric, spontaneous, and bold, as they are were also some of the kindest people you had ever met. you couldn't help but be in total awe of them. i mean- how could you not? the amount of countries they've helped, people freed from oppression, friends they have defended and supported even when the whole world was against them...

it was hard not to feel insignificant, through no fault of theirs, it was just a lot to live up to.... and it was hard to feel enough at times.

• ♡ •

while your time being apart of the crew is nothing to write home about, hardly even considering yourself a true member yet, you still couldn't help but be utterly amazed with the people around you, and you just couldn't help yourself but to let them know.

mornings on the sunny were truly a special time. the mouth watering smells leaking out from under the kitchen door, as well as the sounds of a soft melody from brooke's violin fill the ship.

"good morning brooke! what song are you playing? it sounds wonderful!" you ask as you made you way to the kitchen, too eager to see what wonders awaited for breakfast

"yohoho!! just a ballad i've been composing!" he replied, sharing a smile with you before you turn and open the kitchen door.

"it smells delicious sanji!! seriously, im salivating out there! when's breakfast going to be ready?"

a faint blush appeared on his cheeks, but after a quick drag from his cigarette he quickly regains his composure "you're actually right on time! i just finished up!!"

• ♡ •

after breakfast, you weren't surprised to find zoro working out, as he had told you "any second not training, drinking, or sleeping, is a waste" one of your first nights on the ship. you watched in awe as he carried an inhuman amount of weight with ease, not even breaking a sweat.

feeling your stare, his eyes wander to meet yours, "need something?"

"oh! um.. no sorry!! i just can't believe you can lift that so easily!! you're not even sweating!"

"well yeah, this is just my warm up" he replied, a small smirk appearing from the corner of his lips as you wandered away

• ♡ •

in the girl's shared bedroom, you found nami hunched over her desk, carefully and slowly drawings lines for yet another one of her maps. it had been a few days since you had seen this particular map, so you quietly peered over her shoulder to see her progress

"nami, this is incredible!! i could've sworn two days ago there was only a vague outline on this page!! look at that detail!!"

she turned around, beaming at you "thanks!! after years of practice i could draw a map this simple with my eyes closed!"

• ♡ •

the sounds of sawing and nails being pounded into wood grew too loud for you to ignore, so you finally decided to leave the girls room to see what the commotion was all about.

in the three seconds it took you to get to the door, the sounds had ceased. curiosity overtaking you, you couldn't help but step out and see what had caused it all.

the first think that caught your eye was a small greenhouse the seemingly appeared out of thin air, since it definitely wasn't here earlier, and usopp and franky opening up some colas nearby

chopper ran up to you, giddy with excitement "do you want to see the new greenhouse usopp and franky made? its perfect for all my medicinal herbs! now i can grow them here on the sunny!!"

taking the small deers hoof into your hand, you followed him down the stairs to the greenhouse. "wow!!! you guys just built this?"

"franky drew up the plans after breakfast and did the labor, and i added a special watering system!" usopp chimes in, ready to boast about their design, and for good reason

"consider me impressed!!! i may even dare to say that it's SUPER!" you proclaim, earning giggles from all three of the boys

• ♡ •

the following morning you woke up with a purpose. stars still in the sky from how early it was, you tiptoed out of the shared bedroom and to the kitchen. trying to be as quiet as possible, not wanting anyone to hear you, you turned on the lights and gathered the ingredients to make some lemon bars, as a thank you for the crew, they did save your life after all.

as you baked, occasionally glancing out the kitchen window every once in a while you slowly saw the stars leave the sky, the moon disappear, and the sun slowly beginning to rise. its just about dawn now and your lemon bars had finally finished chilling, ready to be cut and served.

sanji, a typical early riser since he has to prep and cook breakfast, opened the kitchen door shocked to see the lights already on and you inside. "oh! mellorine!! i didn't expect to see your beautiful face this early! to what do i owe this pleasure?" he asks.

"sanji.. i'm not- um.... i just made some lemon bars... as a thank you for the crew.. maybe we could eat them with breakfast if thats okay..."

"of course we can!!! im sure i can whip up some stuff that would compliment them perfectly! get some rest! it's still super early, i'll call when breakfast is ready!"

• ♡ •

"breakfast!!!" sanji's voice rings throughout the sunny, and slowly but surely everyone made their way to the kitchen, you being the last to arrive. once you had been seated, you noticed sanji walking his way over to the table, with your tray of lemon bars in hand as he announces "this morning we also have a very special dish prepared by our newest member!"

luffy's eyes widen as he looks over at you and practically shouts in excitement "wow!! i didn't know you could cook! what did you make? im sure its amazing!!! i want some!!"

with all eyes on you, you couldn't help but feel a bit shy, the confidence and determination you had this morning suddenly dissipated "just some lemon bars... its really nothing special... i just wanted to thank you guys.. for everything.. it's just you're all so amazing, you guys are crazy talented and strong and so kind and thoughtful... its really nothing special... i'm sure they don't even hold a candle to the elaborate desserts sanji makes every night..." you mumble, cheeks burning red with embarrassment.

"i'm sure they're delicious! definitely better than anything our captain could ever make" nami says with a sly smile. "all this talk about food is making me even more hungry!! let's finally eat guys!" luffy shouts, grabbing for the closest plate of food to him, too impatient to wait any longer.

• ♡ •

one chaotic, fast and messy breakfast later, and all the plates on the table were practically licked clean.

"thank you for breakfast sanji, you outdid yourself as always! those omelets and the potatoes, freshly squeezed orange juice, delicious as always!" you said absolutely glowing, sanji's breakfasts truly were the best, you wonder how you ever lived a life without them before.

"thank you mellorine!! but those lemon bars! they were divine!! who taught you how to bake?" he asks.

before you can get a reply in, the entire crew bursts into an uproar of compliments.

"yeah!!! i never knew you could make stuff like that!! i might have you replace sanji!!!" luffy exclaims

"i totally would've thought sanji made them if you hadn't said anything!" nami says, usopp nodding along and adding "yeah!! i was totally worried they would be bad at first because you seemed so nervous, but i can't believe sanji didn't make them!"

a soft spoken "absolutely delicious" coming from robin

zoro, lifting his head up and meeting you eyes, decided to chime in on the topic "i guess they were good." but after an intense glare from sanji then mumbles "...really good" his cheeks flushing ever so slightly.

"they were SUPER!!!!" franky shouts, causing luffy, chopper, and usopp to giggle.

and by this point, the compliments became a bit overwhelming. you didn't feel confident enough to accept them, but didn't want to be rude and ignore them either. your silence was definitely noticed by the crew who began to quiet down a bit as your face grew hotter and hotter, blush way too visible to hide behind your hair, you looked down and muttered as quietly as possible "they're really nothing special... im glad you guys liked them though..." and rushed out of the kitchen as fast as you possibly could.

• ♡ •

you retreated to the crow's nest to collect yourself. it was truly the perfect spot on the sunny to get some alone time. out of sight from everyone, but still in a spot where you can enjoy the warm sun, the ocean breeze, and the sound of the waves crashing as you sail the sea.

thankfully, you managed to leave a book up here the previous day, so once you caught your breath and the blush cleared from your face, you read. just to take your mind off of the interaction with the crew.

• ♡ •

you weren't sure how much time had passed, as you had gotten unexpectedly absorbed in the story of your book, but it wasn't until you heard the sound of a lighter.

you look up to meet the sky-blue eyes of sanji, he takes a drag of his cigarette before taking a seat on the floor next to you. the two of you sat together for moment of silence, minus the sound of the waves beneath you both. a quiet sigh leaves his mouth, before he breaks the silence "i just wanted to apologize. i didn't mean to put you on the spot in there. we didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."

"no you don't owe me an apology! really! it's fine!! i know you guys were just trying to be nice and compliment me but.... i don't know... " you paused to collect your thoughts for a second. trying to word how you felt. sanji waiting patiently, taking a couple drags before you finally found the words to continue talking.

"it's just hard sometimes.. to feel like i'm good enough... especially around you guys, i mean the countless people and countries you guys have saved, your strength, your kindness... sometimes, i guess i just feel like a fraud being in the same crew..."

sanji took a moment to consider your words and feelings, and with a quiet sigh said "yeah.. i get it. it's funny because i actually feel the same way sometimes... but you know, luffy chose you to be here for a reason, and even if you don't see that, he does. we all do. we all serve a purpose on the crew, one thats invaluable to our captain, and he has no doubts about what that is."

finally turning to meet those sky-blue eyes, you looked at sanji with a small smile. "thanks, that really means a lot.."

he returned your smile with a bigger one and replied "of course!! i mean.... come on, those were some damn good lemon bars and i think luffy would kill me if you never made them again."

you shoved his shoulder, and in between laughs, you look over and sanji and reply "whatever!!"

and it was at this moment, for the very first time under the warm summer sun and ocean breeze blowing through your hair and the faint smell of sanji's cigarette smoke, that you began to felt a little more sure of your place in the straw hat pirates...

---------------------------------------------------------------------

a/n: i totally didn't expect to make this as long as i did so thanks for sticking around if you made it this far!!! i love and appreciate you!! have a great day/afternoon/evening/night!!! 😭😭😭

a/n: enjoyed this fic? here's my masterlist!

[kai-uh-arcadian]

Something you’ll never know

synopsis: you and aeri were inseparable while you were growing up. Is that connection still there?

word count: 15k (jeeez) (it could've been 3 parts but I love you all so much so here you are)

cw: angst, cussing, drinking, f reader, childhood best friends to...(?) idk if there's any i missed please lmk!

notes! So sorry if its a confusing read with the timelines and such. the italic paragraphs are flashbacks/memories! for clarification Aeri and reader are ages 12, 22, and then 30 in this. It's inspired by the movie Past Lives (one of my fav movies, I recommend it!) barely proofread again, I also tried to add extra space in between different scenes, I hope it flows okay!

This is my first angsty fic ever but I had a lot of fun writing it! I really hope you enjoy it and if you'd like to, lmk your thoughts!!

as always dms and asks are always open!

xoxo love youuu (: <3

20 years ago in Southern California,  SM Elementary School

Ever since you can remember, Aeri Uchinaga has been a constant presence in your life. You first met in preschool, where she quickly took a liking to you for reasons you couldn't quite understand. As a ‘slow-to-warm-up’ child, you were perfectly fine with doing quiet activities on your own while your classmates ran around, chatting amongst themselves. But Aeri must have seen you as a challenge or a game, maybe? She was determined to crack the ice and see what lay beneath your quiet exterior. She would always join you at the drawing table and start rambling about a variety of things that crossed her mind or even go as far as sharing her stuffed animals with you when she saw you playing ‘family’ alone with your own.

And before you knew it, she had you hooked. Aeri was more outspoken than you at the time, and she often took the reins in your friendship, but you were (more than) happy to follow her lead. You quickly learned that she had a habit of charging in head first, and it became your unspoken mission to keep her from getting into too much trouble.

You promised yourself that you'd always be there supporting her from behind.

You dribbled the soccer ball skillfully toward the goal, weaving through defenders with ease. Just as you were about to score, a loud yelp from the basketball court made you stop dead in your tracks. Your hesitation cost you as a player from the opposing team slid in, tackling you. Pain shot through your leg as your planted foot twisted in a way that it should NOT twist.

You got up from the ground and ignored the pain as you waved to a classmate on the sideline to take your place on the field. You limped as quickly as you could toward the court from the field, fighting back tears. The adrenaline kept you moving.

Eventually you made it to the basketball court where Aeri was.

“Are you okay?” you asked as you reached a hurt Aeri, who was hissing slightly at the sight of her skinned knee. Almost every ounce of pain washed away when you saw her.

She looked up, surprised, as your shadow blocked the sun. To her, you probably looked like an angel.

“Y/n,” she sniffled, “Where did you come from?”

“I was just playing soccer,” you replied, kneeling in front of her and offering your back. “Here, hop on. Let’s get you to the nurse.”

“Mm~ okay,” Aeri shyly mumbled as she climbed onto your back, resting her chin in the crook of your neck as you hobbled toward the infirmary.

“How did you know I was hurt?” she inquired softly.

“I dunno, my Aeri instincts must've kicked in... But you do have a pretty distinctive scream that I could hear all the way from the soccer field” You chuckled

“Ah~! What!? That’s so embarrassing!” She buried her face into your neck. “Why did you come over? You said you were playing soccer?”

“Well yeah I was, but remember when we were five and had our first sleepover?” you asked, chuckling. “Ya know, the one where you couldn’t stop crying because you missed your parents, especially your mom.”

“Hey! Why bring that up now?” she groaned, playfully hitting your back with her fists. “It wasn’t my choice! My parents were busy with work, okay!”

“Nono~ we made a pinky promise, remember? I told you, ‘I’ll always be here for you, no matter what.’ And I vaguely remember claiming I’d be your prince or somethin' like that.. I’m just keeping my word.” You smiled at the memory.

“That was like seven years ago…I can't believe you even remember that” she sighed contentedly. “Well, thank you, my prince.” she let out a teasing chuckle

“Of course, Lady Aeri,” you replied in a playful, formal tone, adjusting her higher on your back with a little hop.

There was a small break of silence before Aeri took notice of the cadence of your steps.

“...Wait, are you limping?” Her tone suddenly turned serious, like a mother about to scold her child.

“Uh…” You hesitated, “No…?” you chuckled nervously hoping she'd drop the topic (she didn't).

She peeked over your shoulder and saw your left ankle, red and beginning to swell.

“Ah~! What happened!? Let me down, I can walk! You idiot!” she exclaimed, trying to wriggle off your back.

“No way! We’re almost there anyways, and all this wiggling isn’t helping the pain either!” you bickered with the girl on your back before finally reaching the school entrance.

After school, your mom tended to your hurt ankle. It wasn’t anything serious, just a mild sprain. You worked silently on your assignment before she spoke up.

“Y/n, honey~” your mom cooed before sitting down next to you at the kitchen table while you were doing homework. “What do you think about Aeri? Do you like her?”

“Hmm,” You hummed while  placing your pencil down as memories of her flooded your mind.

One specific memory came to the forefront of your mind,

You and Aeri were laying in the lush grass together with your heads touching and holding hands.

“Aeri, look!” You pointed to the sky “I see a shark.. Or maybe a really  big tuna?” a playful giggle escaped your lips 

“Mhm~!” she agreed, “Look over there! Doesn’t that look like Haku from Spirited Away?” Aeri’s eyes widened in excitement as her favorite character appeared in the sky, her finger excitedly pointing 

“Yeah! I think it does!” You stole a glance of her. 

Her eyes were glued to the blue sky adorned with fluffy white clouds that looked like they felt like cotton candy. The sun reflected against her dark brown hair and made it look like a beautiful dark ocean rippling in the wind

It was a cool summer day. A gentle breeze wafted her scent of strawberry shampoo and a light rose scent from her deodorant. The sky stretched over both of you like a blue canvas with puffy cotton balls. The warmth of the sunshine wrapped the two of you into an embrace only you both could feel.

 You stared at her with so much… happiness? While she pointed out various shapes, her face lit up more and more each time she spotted one

“What is this feeling?” You thought “It feels like i’m going down a steep slope of a rollercoaster when I’m around her”

“Hm~ Y/n? Is there something on my face? Did you hear me?” She briefly stopped her tangent when she felt a soft gaze.

“Oh~! No sorry,” You giggled

“I- just” you began barely above a whisper

“Wow, look!” Aeri unknowingly cut you off “Those ones look like two hearts about to mash together” she exclaimed giddily

Your gaze went back to the clouds and you paused  for a few seconds causing Aeri to look at you

“Were you gonna say something?” She mumbled and you met her eyes

“I’m just.. Really happy right now!” you said, unable to verbalize the feelings you were having.

“I like her” you replied to your mom

“Ohh~”She nodded in response before genuinely inquiring “Why?” 

“Well… She said I’m like her prince” she responded to her mother so nonchalantly and innocently

“Her prince?”

“Mhm, I think i’ll marry her one day” You smiled before picking up your pencil again-- completely unphased.

“Mm~ I see, I see. Well Y/n, does she want to marry you, too?” 

“I don't know if she likes me too, but if she does I know she'll say when we’re ready!” She smiled brightly at her mom 

“Ah okay~ When did you grow up my sweet daughter?” Your mom lightly pinched your cheek which caused you to giggle. “Well, I was on the phone with her mom earlier... Do you want to go on a date with her?"

Of course you excitedly nodded your head in agreement

You and Aeri stepped into the park, nature wrapped around you two like a comforting hug. The trees swayed gently in the breeze, their leaves left a playful pattern of light and shadows on the ground below. While birds chirped happily overhead, their songs blending with the soft rustle of leaves, creating a soothing melody that seemed to dance through the air. Both of your mom’s made their way to a nearby spot to watch you both 

“Aeri! Let’s go” You said as you grabbed her free hand 

“Oh~ Ma, can you hold these?” Aeri swiftly passed the small bouquet of flowers you had bought her to her mother before being whisked away by your eager pull

“Oh!”  was all Mrs.Uchinaga could get out before the two of you ran off exploring the park. She couldn’t contain her laughter and began to take a digital camera out of her purse.

“They look good together, so happy huh?” Your mom glanced at Mrs.Uchinaga as she was snapping a picture of the two of you running hand in hand in the luscious green field. 

“Yeah~ Aeri talks about Y/n a lot. She says she wants to marry her one day” Her mom let out an astonished laugh “When did our girls grow up?

“That’s exactly what Y/n said! “ She laughed, “We can’t be too surprised right?

"Ah~ I guess not." Aeri's mom began, "Remember that time we kept Y/n overnight once and Aeri was crying uncontrollably and then suddenly stopped? My god, it was so scary! I thought something had happened to her but when I checked the baby monitor, Y/n snuck out of her own crib and into Aeri’s! And then they fell asleep like that!” She laughed with a tinge of nostalgic sadness 

“Ahh~ They were about two and a half years old huh? Oh~! Remember that time I told you when I put them in charge of her brother while I was making them lunch and when I walked back into the living room and found all of them asleep on the couch with Kosei in between them! It was so cute~!” Your mom smiled brightly “I have the photo somewhere still!” 

Both you parents sighed contentedly, reminiscing on you two. After a bit of comfortable silence, you mom spoke up

“My Y/n cares about Aeri a lot. I can see she does too, it puts my heart at ease to know my daughter has someone who cares so deeply about her.” Your mom’s eyes began to get a bit watery

Mrs. Uchinaga placed her hand reassuringly over hers, a warm smile gracing her lips. "She's a smart girl—you shouldn’t worry too much. I'm forever grateful she's been in my Aeri's life. Look at them," she pointed affectionately at the two of you, nestled under the low-hanging branches of the weeping willow tree.

"Aeri! This is where we can take our shoes off," you exclaimed, gently parting the "curtain" of leaves as if entering a secret world.

Your imagination ran wild, the simple weeping willow tree transformed into a spacious apartment in a bustling city.

"And here is where our dining room is," Aeri chimed in, moving to the large stones and pretending they were seats. "Here, sit. Let me get you a coffee, honey," she playfully immersed herself in the game of house.

Aeri returned with a hollowed out rock with a stick in it, “Here’s your coffee!”

You pretend slurped through the stick straw, “This is soo~ delicious” and you fake slurped more causing both of you to giggle

“Hey, Aeri” you placed the rock coffee cup down and Aeri joined you at the “dining table”

“Where do you wanna live when you grow up?” you met her gaze

“Mmm, definitely a city. I want my fashion business to be very popular!” She flashed a cheerful thumbs up “What about you?”

“Mm..” You looked down, shyly contemplating

“Are you getting shy?!” She gently nudged your shoulder teasing you

“Nono~!” You waved your hands in defense while a smile appeared on your face “Hm.. I guess wherever you go?”

While you and Aeri played house, imagining your future together, your parents sat nearby on the park bench in comfortable silence, smiling as they watched the two of you. A gentle breeze drifted through, rustling the leaves and carrying the scent of blooming flowers through the air, adding to the peaceful moment.

“We’re moving soon,” Aeri’s mom finally said, breaking the quiet. Which explained why she asked to take them on a 'date'

Your mom didn’t respond right away, her gaze still on you and Aeri. After a few more beats, she spoke, doing her best to mask her emotions. “Oh… where?”

“South Korea,” Aeri’s mom replied softly.

Your mom paused, her voice steady but tinged with sadness. “Why leave everything behind?”

“There are better opportunities ahead than the ones we’ll leave behind,” Aeri’s mom answered with a quiet sigh, as if trying to convince herself as much as anyone else.

Later, on the car ride home, you and Aeri had both fallen asleep in the backseat, your hands still clasped together, oblivious to the change that was coming. Your mom glanced back at the two of you and with a bittersweet smile, she snapped a quick photo.

Neither of you knew how much your lives would change in the next few weeks.

You sat at your desk, your gaze unfocused as you stared blankly ahead, lost in a haze of thoughts that swirled around you like fog. Aeri’s voice cut through the noise, her laughter ringing out as she animatedly chatted with her friends nearby. Her vibrant energy filled the room, lighting up the space, yet somehow, it made the gap between you two feel even wider. You were in the same room, but it felt like you were worlds apart—both of you in your own little world.

"You're leaving?" one of her friends exclaimed, disbelief in her voice.

"Yeah!" Aeri replied, her excitement unmistakable.

"Never coming back?" another girl pressed, curiosity laced her voice.

"I don’t think so!" Aeri laughed, her tone light, almost carefree.

"What?! Why not!?" the girl pushed further, as if she couldn’t fathom the idea.

"Well.. I could never become a fashion designer here!" Aeri giggled, like her answer was obvious… like she wasn’t about to leave behind everything you had known together.

After school, you found yourself walking past Aeri as she waved her friends goodbye. Her cheerful farewell echoed behind you as you caught a glimpse of her. Her smile was as bright as ever, but for the first time, it felt distant—like it no longer belonged to you.

"Oh, bye!" she called out to her friends, her voice cheerful before turning her attention to you. 

"Wait up!" she hurried to catch up with your steps.

You slowed down slightly, but something in you hesitated.

"Oh, sorry," you murmured.

She quickly caught up and the two of you began the familiar walk home, the silence between you felt heavier than ever. Aeri seemed comfortable, at ease with the quiet, but for you, the weight in your chest grew with every step. Even though she was right beside you, it felt like she was already slipping away—like an invisible wall was growing between you, expanding with each moment.

It was disorienting, jarring even, to think that after today, she wouldn’t be walking next to you every day like she had since kindergarten. Each footstep echoed what was coming, and despite the comfort of routine, the reality of her departure pressed down on you, suffocating the words you wanted to say but couldn’t find.

The world around continued its hustle and bustle, completely indifferent to the storm brewing in your heart. Cars rushed by, bikes whizzed past, and people hurried along the sidewalk, insensitive to the internal chaos you were grappling with.

Every emotion flooded through you, leaving you drowning in a mix of sadness and anger. Each step felt trudging through quicksand as if your feet had been stuck in concrete. Your body was subconsciously pulling you away from your house to prolong your inevitable separation– like a dog who doesn’t want their walk to be over yet.

As you reached the fork in the road that diverged toward your respective houses, a heavy cloud hung above your head, thick with everything you wanted to say.

"Bye, n/n," Aeri's voice carried a tinge of melancholy as she began to walk away, her figure receding into the distance.

You paused, unable to tear your gaze away from her retreating form.

Every memory you’ve shared with her played in your head like a movie montage.

“C’mon Aeri, don’t be scared! I’m right here with you!” You aggressively whispered while carrying a bag of snacks and a blanket, trying to convince Aeri onto the roof of your house

“What if we get in trouble? What if we get locked out and we’re stuck here forever!” Aeri said to you from inside through the opened window 

“My parents know I do this, it’s a flat surface so you have to be a real dummy to slip off! And don’t worry, it only locks from the inside and if you’re scared you can just hold onto me!” You reached out your hand to Aeri

She couldn't help but smile, your own reassuring grin reflecting back at her. She warmly accepted your hand, her breath hitched when your hands made contact.

“O-oh thanks, let’s place the blanket down!” Aeri was glad it was dark because she was sure her face was the same shade as a tomato!

"Not too shabby, huh?" You chuckled lightly, settling onto the soft surface and patting the spot beside you, inviting her to join you.

It was a warm summer night. A gentle breeze wafted your scent of shampoo and a cologne-y scent from your deodorant. The sky stretched over both of you like a dark blue canvas with twinkling stars. The warmth of the evening wrapped the two of you into an embrace only you both could feel.

You felt her staring at you while you pointed out various constellations, your face lit up more and more each time you spotted one

“Hm, Aeri? Did you hear me?” You briefly stopped your tangent when you felt a soft gaze on you

“Oh~! No sorry,” Aeri giggled “What did you say?”

You scooted closer so your head was touching hers, “See those stars over there? It’s kinda like a weird looking 7?” You extended your arm while pointing, trying your best to point out three out of the millions of stars in the sky

“Hm.. oh! Yes!”

“That’s me! And your birthday is October 30 making you a Scorpio! and hmm” You began to move your pointer finger to search in the sky

“Ah! There! You see that pattern that kind of looks like a snake with claws?”

“Yeah~ I actually do!” Aeri giggled as her imagination took over

“Well, Aeri if you ever feel sad or something and I’m not with you for some reason ” You chuckled sweetly. “I just want you to know that we’re always together in the sky!” You both turned to meet each other’s gaze at the same time 

“Well I don’t think we’ll ever get separated, I want to be with you forever!” She innocently beamed which caused you both to giggle 

“Me too Aeri!”

After a few hesitant moments, you found your voice, though it felt as if your heart might stop with the effort.

“Aeri,” you called out softly, the word heavy with all the feelings you had kept buried for so long.

“Mm?” She turned to face you, her expression softening when her eyes met yours, and the cheerful energy from earlier was nowhere to be found.

“I.. I like you,” you said, your voice trembling slightly, but you held her gaze, resisting the urge to look away. You felt as though you might crumble, but you forced yourself to keep going. “I’m glad we spent our childhood.. together.”

Her smile faltered, shifting into something sadder, something that you couldn't understand. She didn’t respond immediately, as if the words you’d just said had stolen her breath, and for a moment, neither of you spoke. She was at a loss for words and the silence stretched endlessly between you.

You bit the inside of your cheek, trying desperately to maintain your composure. “Bye… Aeri,” you added softly, your voice cracking ever so slightly as you turned away towards your house, trying to put on a brave face.

You couldn’t bear to see the sadness in her eyes any longer. Tears threatened to spill, but you fought them back, willing yourself to hold on just a little longer.

“Bye..” she faintly whispered out

The moment you started walking toward your house, your chest tightened. Tears streamed down your face as the weight of the world as you knew it came crashing down.

What you'll never know and what you couldn’t see, was that Aeri began crying too.

About 10 years later, you sat at your desk in your cozy apartment room at UCLA, the late afternoon sun casting soft rays across the scattered textbooks and notes. With a sigh, you pushed some papers aside to rest your elbow on the desk, propping your chin on your hand.

“How the actual fuck do I even solve this?” you muttered to yourself, staring at the confusing statistics problem on your laptop. After a moment of frustration, you searched for a tutorial on YouTube, hoping for a miracle.

As you scrolled through the list of videos, you could hear your roommate Yunjin bustling around in the kitchen.

“Jennie-poo~!” you called out, leaning back in your chair. “Can you come here?”

A few seconds later, you heard your door creak open. "Huh?" came Yunjin's voice, her (dyed) red hair poking around the doorframe as she stepped inside.

“Do you have any idea how to solve this?” you asked, switching your browser back to the page filled with complex formulas. You pointed at the screen. “I seriously have no clue what they’re even fucking asking”

Yunjin leaned down, squinting at the problem for a moment before laughing. “Yeah, I’m gonna be honest with you—zero clue. You’re so fucked,” she said, still giggling.

Yunjin, aka Jennifer, was from upstate New York, and the two of you had been roommates for four years. It felt like fate sometimes—being assigned to live together your freshman year was totally random, but she was practically you in a different form.

“You’re absolutely no help,” you groaned, laughing a little despite yourself as you buried your face in your hands.

“You’re so welcome,” she said, patting your head playfully. “I’m gonna make some jjajangmyeon, do you want any?”

“Not right now. Maybe save some for me later? I gotta finish this shit” you replied, sitting back up and stretching.

“Yeah, of course. Good luck!” Yunjin said with a wink as she left your room.

You sighed deeply as you turned back to your YouTube tab, clicking on a video tutorial. As fucking expected, an ad began to play—one of those painfully long ones you couldn’t skip.

“Do you want to be a model? Do you think you have what it takes?”

The words faded into the background as your mind started to wander, pulled back by an unexpected memory.

Aeri.

It had been so long since you’d allowed yourself to think about her. Years, even. But something about the mention of fashion, pulled you back into the past. The past where she lived, where her dreams had once shone so brightly.

Aeri had always talked about becoming a fashion designer—about where she'd live and make a name for herself. You could still picture her so clearly, sitting beside you, messily sketching her ideas in her notebooks. Dresses, bags, runway looks… She used to tell you all about it, her eyes lighting up with excitement.

“I could never become a designer here,” she’d said once, laughing. She was always so sure of her path. Always ready to go after her dreams, no matter the cost.

She may have been right

Suddenly, the thought of her became overwhelming. You couldn’t help but wonder what had become of that dream. Did she make it? Was she in South Korea, living the life she’d always wanted? Or had things turned out differently?

Your fingers hovered over the keyboard as your mind drifted back to the memory of her laughter and the way she’d talked about her plans with ABSOLUTE certainty.

Without thinking, you opened a new tab. You hesitated for a moment, a tightness in your chest returning. 

A memory flashed into your mind to when you were having a sleepover with her

“Y/n…” Aeri’s voice came softly from the left side of your bed, sadness creeping into her usual playful tone.

“Mm? What’s wrong?” you asked, glancing over at her.

“I wish you wanted to be a model,” she pouted. “Then you could try on the clothes I design.”

You laughed softly. “I mean, I still could... Why are you thinking about that now?”

“Well, obviously I want to be a designer! SO of course I want you to be the first person to wear the clothes I make,” she beamed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

The video kept playing and the math tutorial began playing. 

Why the hell am I thinking about that now? It’s been like 10 years?

 Aeri Uchinaga…

You leaned back in your chair and positioned your head towards the ceiling

What are you up to…

With a sigh, you slingshotted forward and opened Facebook and began to search.

After an hour of searching, you finally found a lead—her father’s company page. It was a bit tedious to find her or her family, considering they lived in a completely different country.

“Hi, I’m looking for my childhood best friend, Aeri Uchinaga . Please let me know how I can contact her.”

And with that, you posted the message and, for the first time in hours, tried to return to your homework.

A few weeks later, on the complete opposite side of the world at 5:30 PM in Seoul...

Aeri sat in her dorm, the warm afternoon sunlight streaming through the window as she lounged on her bed, phone pressed to her ear, laptop resting in her lap.

“Ne~ umma, remember Xinyi? She plays basketball in college now!” Aeri said with a smile, scrolling through Facebook while chatting with her mother.

“Wow~! I’m not surprised,” Mrs. Uchinaga replied with a chuckle on the other end. “She was always knocking on our door, asking you to play.”

Aeri laughed lightly. “Yeah, even though I was pretty bad. She tried so hard to teach me, but I was just ass”

“It’s okay, darling. Sports weren’t really your thing,” her mother comforted warmly.

Aeri absentmindedly scrolled through her feed, clicking on old profiles and updates from people she hadn’t thought about in years.

“Who else should we look up?” She asked her mom.

Aeri paused, a small smile creeping onto her lips. “Who’s the one I had a huge crush on?”

“Y/n L/n” they both said at the same time, sharing a laugh.

Aeri’s fingers hovered over the keyboard, and she began typing your name, curiosity piqued as she searched for her old crush. As she clicked through posts, she suddenly froze.

“Umma! This is crazy!” Aeri exclaimed, her voice full of shock. “She posted on dad’s Facebook page a few weeks ago looking for me!”

“Oh wow really? Well~ I’m not too surprised, Aeri. She really liked you!” her mom replied, her voice filled with warmth.

“I’m looking for my childhood best friend, Aeri Uchinaga ...” Aeri read aloud to her mom as her eyes scanned the message.

Aeri’s heart raced as she scrolled through your profile. Even though your hair was longer and your features were more defined, the essence of you—the same joyful glint in your eyes—hadn’t changed at all. It was as if time hadn’t erased any part of the person she remembered so vividly.

“Umma, I’ll call you back,” Aeri said quickly, cutting her mom off as she reassured her with a chuckle, “Yes! I promise I’m eating well!”

She ended the call with a smile, but her pulse quickened as she stared at the screen. Her eyes scanned the message again and again, as if reading your name over and over would somehow make this more real.

“Ahh~” Aeri inhaled deeply, her fingers trembling slightly as she sent you a friend request and began typing a message to you.

“Y/n! It’s Aeri, you remember me?”

It was 1:30 AM in your on-campus apartment in LA when your phone buzzed, receiving the new message.

“Fuck her! She doesn’t deserve you! You’re like… sooo out of her league,” Yuna mumbled to your other friend, Ryujin, as she poured another shot for her.

“Right?” Ryujin sighed before pausing to take the shot. “I just don’t know why I miss her… so much,” she grimaced as the alcohol hit the back of her throat.

“Ryu, you should have some water,” you slurred, hiccuping as you passed her your water bottle.

“Y/nn~ how about you drink some water,” your roommate Yunjin chimed in, giggling as she slumped over on the couch.

The four of you sat in the living room, post-gaming the bar, waiting for your DoorDash to arrive. Ryujin rested her head in your lap, and without thinking, you rubbed her back to comfort her.

You took a long gulp of water with a satisfied “Ah~” before reaching for your beer.

“Wellll~ Beer is basically water. You should have some too Jennie-poo! It isn’t a post-game if we don’t drink till we die,” you exclaimed, taking a sip from the can.

“UGH~” Ryujin groaned, deadpanning, “I want to die~”

“Girl, she literally cheated on you and then wanted to be exclusive while she was fucking someone else—like, what?” Yuna added, deadpan.

That comment made all of you burst out laughing(she was right), even as Ryujin lightly punched Yuna in the arm.

“Hey~! Be niceeee~ Show some compassion!” Yunjin scolded, trying and failing to stifle her laughter.

You were still chuckling when your phone buzzed again in your pocket. Grabbing it, you blinked a couple of times, trying to focus your eyes on the notification.

Giselle?

Your vision was still a little too blurry to make sense of it.

"Hey!" Yunjin faked being cold

“You have a secret girlfriend or somethin'?” Yunjin teased, sounding just like a jealous girlfriend.

“Huh?” you responded, still distracted.

“Who’s messaging you at 1:30 in the morning? You have a sneaky link you’re not telling us about?” Yunjin continued, laughing.

Meanwhile, Ryujin was still moping in your lap. “Hey! Sensitive subject!” she groaned dramatically.

“Fuck if I know, I honestly have zero clue,” you mumbled, your words slurring as you stared at your phone before turning it off.

The next morning, you woke up in your bed with a slight headache. You groaned, rolling over to reach for your water bottle and chugged it like it was the last water on Earth.

The cold water worked its magic, refreshing you enough to (barely) function. You grabbed your phone from the charger and started scrolling through your notifications, still half-asleep. But then, one notification made you freeze—last night’s Facebook message.

You clicked on it, your grogginess instantly fading as your eyes widened in surprise. It was from none other than the girl who made you experience your first instance of love—Aeri Uchinaga.

“Giselle Uchinaga?” you muttered to yourself, reading her profile in disbelief.

That’s why you couldn’t find her!  It made complete sense now. Her features were more mature, but that familiar smile—the one that had always warmed your heart—was still there, lighting up her face in every picture. You couldn’t stop smiling as you scrolled through her photos.

Just then, Yunjin’s voice broke through your thoughts, pulling you back to reality.

“Y/n! Are you awake? I made avocado toast and eggs!” she announced from the other side of your door.

“Ahh~ okay, yeah, lemme pee and I’ll be out!” you called back, your voice still raspy from sleep.

You quickly splashed some water on your face and pulled on a pair of sweats and a hoodie before stepping out of your room.

“Good morning!” you chirped, only to be met with a synchronized groan from Yuna and Ryujin.

“How the fuck do you have this much energy? What puts you in such a good mood?” Yuna asked, holding an ice pack on her forehead.

“Hm?” you replied, walking over to your coffee cup on the table that Yunjin had filled for you. “Thank Jennie-poo! And nothing, I just don’t have a massive hangover like you two idiots—should’ve drank beer instead of taking shots”

As you sipped your coffee, your mind of course, drifted back to last night. That damn text from Aeri.

The two of you exchanged a few quick messages, exchanging numbers, and catching up briefly before settling on a time that worked best for both of you to video call. It felt surreal, reading Aeri’s replies after all these years—like time had somehow folded in on itself, bringing the past back into the present.

You found yourself staring at your phone, the FaceTime app open and ready, but your heart pounding in your chest. What if things had changed too much? What if she wasn’t the Aeri you remembered? What if you weren’t the person she expected? Your thoughts spiraled as you adjusted your hair for what felt like the tenth time.

It’s just a call, you reminded yourself. It’s just Aeri. You’ve known her before.

But even though you’d told yourself that a hundred times, the butterflies in your stomach wouldn’t settle. The phone buzzed in your hand as the screen lit up. Incoming FaceTime: Aeri Uchinaga.

You took a deep breath, your thumb hovering over the screen for a moment longer than it should have. Then, finally, you swiped to answer.

Aeri’s face appeared, pixelated for just a second before the connection stabilized. There she was. Her familiar eyes, her smile—the same, but different? You stared at each other for a beat, neither of you quite sure how to start.

Aeri broke the silence with a nervous laugh. “Wow.. it’s been so long. I almost forgot what you looked like!”

You smiled, feeling the same rush of emotions you hadn’t felt in years. “I know right? I wasn’t sure what to expect either. You look… different. In a good way, of course.” nervousness still present in your voice

“Same to you,” Aeri said, her voice softening as she studied your face. “It’s like, you’ve changed, but... not really, you know?”

You laughed, the tension beginning to ease. “Except now you’re Giselle, huh?”

Aeri grinned, rolling her eyes playfully. “Yeah, that’s a long story. But trust me, it’s still me. Aeri Uchinaga at heart.”

You both chuckled, the ice slowly breaking as the conversation started to feel more familiar. It was strange, seeing her face again like this after so many years—older, more mature, but still with that same smile.

“Soo.. You’re really out there becoming a designer, huh?” you teased, shaking your head with an incredulous smile. “It’s kind of wild thinking about you... you know, living in Korea and actually doing all the things you told me you would like years ago”

Aeri laughed, her tone warm but modest. “Don’t let social media fool you. I’m not as glamorous as it seems. I’m still the same girl who couldn’t shoot a basketball to save her life.”

You grinned, shaking your head. “Oh god yeah! I remember! You were sooo bad. I thought for sure you were going to quit after that first fall.”

“Whatever! I literally was just trying to impress you,” she joked, her laugh lighting up the screen.

With each passing minute, the conversation felt easier. The laughter flowed naturally, memories of your childhood together resurfacing as if no time had passed at all.

“So... how have you been, really?” Aeri asked after a while, her tone more serious now. “I feel like I missed so much. of your life"

You nodded, the weight of the years between you sinking in. “Yeah, it feels strange, I feel the same too. I’ve been good, I guess. But seeing you like this… I dunno.. It feels like yesterday, you were just that little girl on the other side of the road from me.”

Aeri smiled, her expression softening. “Right? I don’t know, life is so weird sometimes.”

“Yeah,” you agreed, a small smile tugging at your lips. “And now, you’re the girl on my screen.”

As the night went on, you both talked about everything—your lives, your dreams, the things you had wanted to say but never got the chance to. It was like reconnecting with a part of yourself you thought you’d lost. By the end of the call, there was an unspoken understanding between you both. This wasn’t just a one-off conversation.

“So, let’s not wait another decade to do this again?” you said with a grin.

Aeri laughed. “Deal. Next time, I’ll tell you the full story behind ‘Giselle.’”

“I’m holding you to that, Aeri” you replied, your heart feeling lighter than it had in years.

And that’s how it was. For a few months, you both shared everything—your days, your worries, even the smallest details. You started waiting for her calls, looking forward to the time you’d spend talking. She was always there, her laughter filling your nights(and early mornings!), making you feel closer to her despite the distance.

It was almost as if you were in a relationship. The way she looked at you through the screen, the way your conversations lingered on hopes and what-ifs. You could almost imagine what it would be like to be with her again, for real.

You routinely called Aeri during your day. 

Hey,” you greeted with a smile as the screen connected.

“Hey,” Aeri chuckled softly on the other end.

“Is it 7:00 in the morning there? I thought you said you never wake up before 10:00,” you teased, noting how early it was for her.

“I don’t,” Aeri replied, a smile tugging at her lips. “But this was the only time that worked for you, right?”

“Well yeah but don’t you have class today?” you asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Yeahh~” she admitted, “but it’s later~” sleepiness still evident in her voice

You couldn’t help but tease her. “Ya know Aeri, your english is pretty rusty”

“Hey!” Aeri chuckled in return and her eyes opened slightly. “I only speak English with you and my mom!”

You both laughed yet some silence strung between the two of you

“So, you said you were leaving California to be the world’s greatest designer... You still want that?”

Aeri paused for a moment while shifting in her bed, then smiled. “Hmm... I think maybe I’ll have a business like.. My own line of clothes”

“Ahh wow~” You sighed, “ You’re the same Aeri I remember. Wanting to do everything, have everything and also still so sassy.” you teased again

She laughed, feigning shock. “Sassy? Wow, can’t believe you think of me like that”

Aeri’s grin widened before continuing,  “Actually... I got invited to Japan this summer to design for this brand for a whole month. My professor helped me get into the program!”

“Wait, so you’ll be in Japan for a month?” you asked, surprised. “That’s amazing.”

“Yeah,” Aeri nodded, her excitement palpable. “It’s crazy. I can’t believe it’s happening.”

“So, how are your applications going?” she asked, her voice softening.

“Hmm, wellll~ they’re going,” you replied with a small smile. “I’m looking at Boston for grad school.”

Aeri sighed, a hint of nostalgia in her voice. “Ah wow, look at us.. when did we grow up? It feels like we’re almost... truly adults.”

“Hmm, I know,” you agreed, a thoughtful pause hanging between you. “Too soon though.”

You hung up shortly after and went about your day. You studied with Yunjin, and later, the girls came over for dinner, followed by a late-night study session. By the time you showered and finally settled into bed, it was already 1 AM when your phone buzzed—Aeri was calling.

“Hello?” You mumbled out as you turned your lamp on

“Oh sorry, were you sleeping?” she asked, her face slightly blurry on the screen.

“Mm,” you sighed softly, rubbing your eyes. “No, I just got into bed, actually.”

“Long day?”

“Mhm, but that’s alright. What’s up?” you asked, shifting into a more comfortable position and reaching for your glasses.

“I’m just.. in Haebonchang right now,” she said, flipping the camera to show the view. “Look how beautiful the sunset is, Y/n.”

The sunset was breathtaking, shades of pink, orange, and purple blending into each other like a painting across the sky.

“Wow... it’s beautiful, Aeri,” you said in awe.

Aeri’s voice softened before she flipped the camera back to herself. “Yeah... I wish you were here,” she said quietly, her eyes flickering between the camera and the fading light.

There was a pause, her words lingering in the space between you.

“Maybe one day.. We could go there together,” you whispered, your voice tinged with sadness.

“Yeah.. I’d really like that,” Aeri responded, her tone gentle but carrying the weight of something more.

There was a brief second of silence. As if both of you were hesitating to speak up.

“I miss you,” you whispered, barely audible, your voice filled with longing. Time zones didn’t matter, distance didn’t matter. You really just longed for Aeri. 

Those three words heavily hung in the air between you two.

“I miss you too,” Aeri quietly admitted, her voice soft but sincere, resistance evident in her confession. 

The day after that interaction, things started to feel different. The FaceTime calls slowly became more sparse, and her texts were less frequent. You tried not to overthink it, giving her the space you thought she might need. But as the days passed, the silence began to weigh on you. Eventually, you double texted  her, unable to ignore any longer.

“Aeri, is everything okay?”

For the first time in days, her response came instantly.

“Yeah sorry, I’m okay. I just have something on my mind. Can we call later?”

Her words did nothing to ease your nerves.

“Of course,” you typed back, keeping it simple, though your heart raced.

 The uncertainty gnawed at you, the anxiety tightening in your chest as you stared at the screen.

Finally, what felt like days but in reality was just a few hours, Aeri called you.

You hesitantly answered “Hey Aeri, you okay?”

There was a pause, and that’s when you knew it didn’t seem promising.

“Y/n,” she began softly, her face on the screen appearing hesitant, almost conflicted.

“..Aeri?” you prompted gently, your voice unsure now.

She sighed deeply, her gaze dropping for a second before meeting yours again. “Y/n… I need to talk to you about something.”

Your heart skipped a beat. “Yeah I know, what’s going on? You okay?”

“When is it possible for you to visit me in Seoul?” she asked bluntly, though her tone remained soft.

You hesitated. “Well, maybe about a year or so? Just with grad schoo–”

She cut you off gently,  “I know.. You don’t have to explain yourself, I just– God,” She paused as if holding herself back from admitting something. “It’ll be over a year and a half until I can visit you”

Your eyes stayed glued to the screen, watching her struggle to compose herself. The pit in your stomach deepened

Aeri swallowed hard, clearly struggling with her next words. “I think we should stop talking for a while”

Your chest tightened.

 “Why?”

“I came here..” She began, “ No– I’ve had this goal since forever. I want to accomplish something here but.. I can’t stop myself from looking up flights to California every day. 

And I think… I think I need to focus on committing my life here”

You blinked, the realization slowly sinking in. She was leaving again.

“So you want.. to stop talking to me?” Your words trailed off, unsure of how to finish that thought or if there’s anything more you could possibly say.

“Just for now,” she said quietly, her eyes softening with what seemed like guilt. “And I really don’t want to lose you. But I know.. I have to give this my all.”

You bit your lip, trying to keep the lump in your throat from forming. “Aeri.. It took me 10 years to find you.” 

She looked down again, exhaling slowly trying to fight a sob from coming out. “I know Y/n, but I’ll be back before you know it.. It’s just a brief break”

Fuck

You nodded slowly, though your heart ached. “Alright then Aeri ”

“I’m sorry.” Her voice was barely above a whisper now. “I’m so sorry” She began to cry.

“No need to be sorry,” You said as you choked back your own tears, clearing your throat to cover it.  “We weren’t dating or anything so don’t worry about it. Really.”

There was a long pause, the silence between you filled with all the things neither of you were ready to say.

“Take care of yourself and good luck, okay?” Aeri said, her voice soft but final.

“You too,” you replied, your throat tight, the words barely escaping. “I’ll be right here.”

The call ended, and for the first time in months, the silence felt unbearable.

Aeri never knew that this was the hardest you cried in years.

Whoever said times heals everything, is a straight up liar. Time doesn’t heal, it just lets you get used to how things are now.

It had been about eight years since you had last spoken to her and honestly, you didn’t think much of Aeri anymore. Life had moved on, as it does. Although, there were days when you’d think back on everything but those thoughts were extremely rare now, fleeting, like a distant memory and it didn’t sting the way it used to. You’d convinced yourself that was just how things went. People come and go, and life moves forward whether you’re ready or not.

Once you graduated and started your new job in Boston not long after. You settled into a routine that felt strange at first but eventually became your new normal

Somehow, you managed to entice Yunjin to move to Boston. She had moved into a place not too far from yours with her (now!) fiance. Her sister also lives in Boston too so the transition wasn’t too hard. Yuna and Ryujin had ended up in New York, so weekends/every other weekend often meant catching a train to visit them or planning get-togethers whenever everyone’s schedules aligned.

Your 9-to-5 job wasn’t glamorous, but it was steady—something you could rely on. You fell into the rhythm of it quickly enough. The crowded subway rides during rush hour, the packed streets of Boston, the distant hum of the city became part of your daily routine. You’d slip into your office, get your work done, and slip out at the end of the day. It wasn’t what you imagined back when you were chasing dreams in California, picturing something a little more exciting, maybe a little more daring. But it wasn’t bad either—it was.. just comfortable.

After work, you'd sometimes grab a drink with coworkers or meet up with the woman you’d met shortly after getting into grad school. There was nothing too serious between the two of you, just the occasional dinners or casual hangouts. She was fun to be around—easygoing, good company, someone you could relax with. You’d meet up after work at a bar downtown, sharing a drink and small talk about your days. Or sometimes, you’d catch a movie or grab takeout, sitting side by side on the couch in her small apartment, talking about work or random things that made you laugh.

It wasn’t the life-altering-head-over-heels kind of thing, but it felt normal, almost comforting. There was no pressure to be anything more than it was or used to be, and that was fine with you both. Life had settled into place without much fanfare, a quiet routine that you didn’t mind..

It wasn’t until one quiet evening, after a long day at work, that something finally disrupted your routine. You were sitting on the couch, nursing a beer, and scrolling through your phone without much thought, letting the noise of the day slowly fade away.

That was until a notification lit up your screen. You glanced at it out of habit, not expecting anything important. But the name made you pause.

Aeri Yizhuo.

Who?

Aeri…?

Your heart skipped a beat as recognition clicked into place.

Oh, for fuck’s sake.

For a second, your heart skipped a beat. You stared at the message, the familiar feeling creeping back into your chest, one you hadn’t felt in ages. You hadn’t thought of her in so long, and yet, there she was. After all this time.

And then, the truth hit you like a punch to the gut.

Aeri was married now.

You felt the sting of it, sharp and unexpected, cutting deeper than you would’ve liked to admit. It shouldn’t have hurt this much. You hadn’t thought about her in so long as you knew she’d been building a life in Korea. You had moved on! Or at least, that’s what you told yourself.

But here she was, after all these years she still had the ability to make you feel something. A feeling couldn’t quite put your finger on.

After all this time, part of you had still hoped for something. For something more than this.

About a month or two after your surprise catch-up with Aeri, you finally decided it was time to visit her. The timing was perfect—it was the end of the fiscal year, and you had some extra days off to use. You figured, why not? It would be a good vacation right? The thought of seeing her after all this time felt surreal, but exciting in a way you couldn’t quite describe. You’d booked your flight, set to leave next weekend so you and your friends decided to meet this weekend.

"So," Yunjin piped up, setting down her shot glass with a grin, "Why are you going to Korea?" You, Yunjin, Yuna, and Ryujin were all seated in Yunjin and Kazuha's shared apartment, a half-empty bottle of vodka in the middle of the table while your beer cans scattered around your side.

"She's going to see that girl, rememberrr?" Ryujin teased, her tone playful.

"Who?" you replied, pretending not to know who she was talking about.

Ryujin rolled her eyes, clearly not buying it. "Don't play dumb, idiot. You know exactly who I'm talking about—your first love, right? I thought she lives there, doesn't she?"

"Oh, I see how it is," Yuna chimed in with a smirk. "You just broke up with your girlfriend so you could go see her, huh? You dog"

"What! I’m going for vacation," you exclaimed, shaking your head. "And plus, you guys are crazy. She's married now."

"WHAT? Seriously?" Yunjin blurted out, her voice incredulous.

"Mhm," you nodded, your tone more casual now though it stung to admit it. "For like five or six years now"

You couldn’t even  bring yourself to feel bad about it. After all, from your previous conversation with Aeri, it was clear how happy she was. She’d met her wife, Ning Yizhou, during her design trip in Japan. Aeri had described Ning as an absolutely beautiful soul, someone kind and supportive. They both work together now, running Aeri’s business, Giselle.

From the way Aeri spoke about Ning, you could hear the genuine love and admiration in her voice. There was no bitterness in your heart—how could there be? You were happy for her, happy that she had found someone who brought light into her life, someone who shared in her dreams.

In fact, you were proud of her. She really did accomplish everything she had set out to do. It was bittersweet, of course, but you were genuinely happy for her. 

That’s all that mattered.

Right?

You stood just outside of Incheon International Airport, the thick scent of rain mingling with the smoke from your cigarette as you waited for your Uber. The weather had suddenly turned gray the second you had landed, casting a quiet gloom over the city, the kind that sinks into your bones(What a great sign, huh?). Raindrops softly patterned on the sidewalk while you took another slow drag, the smoke curling up into the damp air.

The second you crushed the cigarette beneath your shoe and bent over to pick it up, a car pulled up in front of you, headlights cutting through the misty rain. You quickly threw it in the appropriate spot in the trash can and opened the back door, climbing in with a sigh.

“Annyeonghaseyo~,” you greeted the driver in your best (broken) Korean, trying to remember the phrases you had studied years ago for Aeri.

The driver smiled politely in the rearview mirror, his eyes crinkling with amusement. “Ah, I also speak English. Are you going to the hotel?”

You felt your cheeks flush slightly, nodding as you let out a small, relieved laugh, “Yes, please!” lowering your head in a polite bow.

The car slipped into the rainy Seoul night, the city lights blurring through the raindrops on the windows. The sound of rain hitting the roof of the car was soothing. Your eyes traced the streets as you drove deeper into the heart of the city. The roads were wet and glistening, the neon signs reflecting off the slick pavement, painting the night in hues of red, blue, and green.

The drive felt longer than it was, the beautiful city of Seoul was a lot to take in. Finally, you pulled up to the front of your hotel, the bright lights of the entrance cutting through the rain. The driver helped you with your bags, and you handed him some Won with a shy bow and a “gamsahamnida,” before heading inside.

Checking in was a blur of polite smiles and hurried conversations with the hotel staff. Before you knew it, you were standing in your empty room, the door clicking shut behind you with a finality that made the space feel even bigger.

The rain had picked up, drumming harder against the window. You crossed the room slowly, setting your bag down by the bed before making your way to the large floor-to-ceiling window that overlooked the city. The lights of Seoul stretched out before you, and they were incredibly bright. 

A reflection of your younger self flickered in the glass, dim and blurred by the raindrops. It was as if your inner child was staring right back at you—smiling brightly in those stupid colorful shorts your Mom loved to dress you in with a big toothy grin stretching across your face. 

As quickly as she appeared, she vanished. Then reflected back was an almost unrecognizable adult. It was you. The light in your eyes was still prevalent, but it just wasn’t as bright as it used to be. Years must have dimmed that spark and softened the edges of the person you once were.

You leaned your forehead against the cool glass, watching as your breath fogged up the window. The city below pulsed with life, its bright lights and movement carrying on unaware of your inner turmoil.

In that moment, surrounded by the bright lights of a city that was so beautiful and full of life.

You had never felt more alone.

Some bridges in Korean folklore represent reunion and enduring love, like the Magpie Bridge, where separated lovers meet once a year to reaffirm their bond. Others, however, represent a fleeting reconnection—brief moments that can’t last, like this one.

The next morning, you got ready and made your way to Seonyudo Park Bridge, a location Aeri had sent you earlier. The sky wasn’t rainy (luckily) and the soft hum of the city seemed distant as you stood at the edge of the bridge, anxiously watching pedestrians and tourists bustle around. Snippets of Korean and bits of broken English floated past you as you nervously fidgeted with the strap of your tote bag.

You shifted your weight, glancing around, when a voice called out, one you hadn’t heard in person in years.

“Y/n!”

Your head instinctively turned.

Suddenly, in front of you stood a child. She wore jean shorts, a Hello Kitty shirt, and had medium length black hair. Her smile was bright, lighting up her entire face, and her eyes sparkled with a familiar excitement.

It was a smile you could recognize anywhere.

For a moment, you were transported back in time. There she was—Aeri, as you remembered her as a child, standing on the other side of the bridge. You froze, staring in disbelief as the vision of her younger self ran toward you, wide-eyed and full of life. It felt so real—the way she moved, the way her smile hadn't changed.

But then you blinked, and the vision vanished and adult, present time Aeri was just walking toward you. She looked different—grown up. Her hair had grown longer, her figure more filled in, and her features had sharpened with time. But that damn smile, the way her eyes crinkled in the corners when she smiled, was exactly the same as you remembered it from 20 years ago.

Without thinking, your body moved on its own, a shy yet goofy smile creeping across your face as you walked toward her. Your strides were longer, more eager, and you met her about three-quarters of the way across the bridge. You met her where she was.

Now standing just a foot apart, neither of you spoke at first. You both stood there, taking each other in, as if afraid to break the fragile moment. Aeri was still shorter than you by a couple of inches, and she was dressed in a sleek black leather jacket with gray slacks that made her look effortlessly beautiful.

You looked down at her, your heart racing, and for a few seconds, the world around you seemed to fade away. The silence between you wasn’t awkward—it was heavy, but not uncomfortable. It was the weight of everything left unsaid, everything that had built up over the years.

Finally, Aeri sighed softly, her eyes locked on yours, and a smile tugged at her lips. “Wow~,” she whispered, looking up at you with a mix of awe and warmth.

She surprisingly embraced you in an unexpected  hug. Your hands hovered, ghosting across her sides.

“I missed you” She muffled out on your shoulder

You didn’t respond.

You both pulled back from the hug, standing there, just staring at each other. There was something almost surreal about it—the way you both remembered each other so clearly, yet in this moment, you felt like strangers, familiar but somehow unrecognizable.

“You look amazing,” you croaked out, your voice betraying the flood of emotions. “You’ve changed but... you haven’t? If that makes sense.” A nervous laugh escaped your lips.

Aeri lowered her head, letting out a soft, breathy chuckle. “I could say the same to you... When did you get so tall?”

You shyly smirked “I think you’ve just always been short.”

“Ah~ so you haven’t changed at all. Still so~ annoying,” she teased, her laugh infectious.

The laughter faded, and a comfortable silence settled between you both as you took each other in again, the weight of time pressing gently on the moment.

“So...” Aeri smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “You wanna go? I’ve got a few places planned for us.”

“Yeah, of course. Let’s go,” you replied, and without another word, you followed Aeri much like a dog

The Han River has long been a symbol of flow, change, and life in Korea. Flowing water symbolizes the constant change in ones life.. they’re moving in different directions, but still connected in some way.

The walk wasn’t far, but neither of you spoke at first. Aeri led the way and you followed, both of you too shy to break the silence. Finally, she guided you to a quiet spot near the bank of the Han River, the water glistening under the dim light of the overcast sky.

“How’s here?” Aeri finally spoke, settling down near the water’s edge.

“Mmm,” you murmured, nodding as you sat beside her. The lush grass below you.

You both sat quietly, watching the water, the silence growing heavier with unsaid words.

“Was the last time we talked really eight years ago?” Aeri sighed, breaking the silence again.

“I think so? We’re 30 now... So, yeah, I guess it was,” you said, turning your head slightly toward her. “Feels weird huh?” You gave her a little half smile.

“Wow...” she whispered, her voice carrying the weight of those lost years.

After a brief pause, she added, “You know.. before I got married, I went to New York with my wife.”

“I know.”

“I sent you a message on Facebook, I didn’t know if you had changed your number” she continued, smiling softly but with a hint of sadness in her eyes. “But you didn’t respond”

There was another pause. It felt like she had more to say, so you stayed quiet, waiting.

“I wanted to see you,” she admitted quietly. “I was disappointed.”

“I’m sorry,” you said, your gaze fixed on the water, avoiding her eyes. There wasn’t much else you could say, something was hanging in the air between you.

Aeri shifted, her tone changing slightly. “Well, I also wanted to meet your girlfriend. How are you guys doing?”

“We’re not together right now,” you admitted.

“Oh, I’m sorry... I didn’t mean to— wait, did you break up?” she asked, concern lacing her voice.

“Oh well no, I don't know, we’re just... in a weird spot right now. She wants to get married but...”

“But you don’t?” Aeri asked, cutting through your hesitation.

“Yeah it's just, I don’t know, it’s just... complicated,” you sighed, trying not to reveal too much, keeping your emotions in check.

“What’s complicated?” she pressed, her voice direct, almost matter-of-fact.

You chuckled lightly at her tone. “I’m still paying off my student loans. I just don’t want my wife to carry that burden, you know? Boston is expensive enough as it is...” It wasn’t entirely a lie. But deep down, you knew there was more to your hesitation than just the financial part.

“I just feel like she deserves someone better than me. We’ve been together but.. not really together for so long... She deserves someone who can give her what she wants. Someone... less ordinary and..”

“Ordinary?” Aeri interrupted softly, her voice filled with disbelief. “You’re far from ordinary, Y/n. You know you’re...” she trailed off, as if catching herself before saying too much.

You gave her a small smile, ignoring her hesitation. It was clear neither of you wanted to dig into old feelings, not yet, maybe even never. There was too much that both of you were avoiding.

“So, how’s work?” you asked, gently steering the conversation away from the tension that had built up. The question felt like a safe place to land, something casual and mundane.

Aeri smiled, seeming to relax a little. “Busy, as always. Giselle’s doing well, though. It’s everything I dreamed of... and more stressful than I imagined.”

“That sounds about right,” you chuckled, the heaviness between you starting to ease. “But, I knew you could do it. I’m really proud of you, Aeri.”

Slowly, the awkwardness began to dissipate. You found yourselves laughing about silly memories from when you were younger, filling in the gaps from the eight years you had missed.

Aeri told you about the ups and downs of her business, her wife, her travels, and the unexpected ways life had changed her. You shared stories of grad school, your friends, your job, and the quiet moments of your own life that had shaped you. It was easy to get lost in the rhythm of it, the back and forth, as though no time had passed at all.

Before you knew it, the sun had started to dip, casting soft shades of pink and orange across the sky. .

“Remember that one time when you fe–”

Your stomach grumbled loudly, cutting through Aeri’s story

“Oh my god, are you hungry?” Aeri’s eyes widened with concern. 

Oh, no I’m fine, really!” You tried to assuage but of course she did not relent

“No it’s okay, I could eat too. Let’s go get some food, there’s a great to-go spot nearby, and then I’ve got one more place I want to show you.”

She was already on her feet, tugging at your sleeve before you could even think to protest. Not that you would, of course.

You chuckled softly, offering a simple, “Alright,” as a smile crept onto your face. It just felt so natural. Aeri was still the same, always charging ahead, her excitement infectious, leading you from behind as she had so many times before. 

Some things really never change.

Soon, you both arrived at a cozy 24-hour convenience store, the kind that makes it fresh right there. It was small and tucked away, but the smell of freshly made meals greeted you the moment you stepped inside. You ordered an onigiri, feeling like that’s all your stomach could handle after such a day like this. 

You unwrapped it and took a bite, savoring the simple comfort of the food, but before you could settle in, Aeri was pulling you along again, her food in hand, excitement bubbling in her voice.

“Let’s go, the bus comes in three minutes!” she said, glancing at her phone with a grin.

You both made it onto the bus(after scarfing down your rice ball) barely just in time. With no seats available, you were left standing together, holding the same pole.

Strangers pressed in around you, the sounds of conversation and the hum of the city filling the space. But in that moment, it felt like it was only the two of you in the world.

Your fingers brushed against each other, but neither of you moved. The silence stretched between you, not awkward, just heavy with all the years missed. 

You met Aeri’s gaze, and for a brief second, it felt like time slowed. 

The bus glided (not) smoothly through the city streets, and yet the tension between you was almost tangible. Your mind raced with everything you wanted to say, but none of the words seemed right.

"Ae—" you started to say, but before the words could form, Aeri cut you off softly.

“Oh, we’re here,” she said, her voice gently pulling you both back into the present moment.

The bus came to a stop, and you followed her out, stepping into the cool evening air. The two of you walked side by side, the quiet comfort between you settling in again as you made your way toward Namsan Tower, known for its Love Lock Bridge.

“Do you want a picture?” Aeri asked, breaking the silence. “It is your vacation, right? I feel like you haven’t taken many pictures while you’ve been here. Probably my fault,” she laughed lightly, her tone warm.

“Oh yeah, sure!” you said, handing her your phone.

You posed in front of a scenic spot along the path, flashing your signature bright smile.

“Ah~ so cute,” she teased, snapping a few photos before handing your phone back to you.

“Thanks,” you said, quickly glancing at the picture before slipping the phone into your pocket.

The two of you continued walking, your shoulders brushing against each other now and then as the foot traffic toward the bridge picked up. Just before you reached the bridge, Aeri stopped in her tracks, turning to you with a serious look.

“Y/n,” she said, her voice soft but steady.

“Hmm?” you looked at her curiously.

“Why did you... search for me?” she asked quietly, her gaze lingering on you.

“Eight years ago?” you finished for her.

“Mhm,” she nodded.

“Do you really want to know?” you asked, meeting her eyes. She gave a small nod in response, waiting.

You took a deep breath, searching for the right words. “I wanted to see you again... I don’t know. You left so suddenly, and I guess I was a little pissed off, honestly.”

“I’m sorry,” Aeri said softly.

You let out a small huff of laughter. “Why are you apologizing?”

“I guess... you’re right. I don’t have anything to be sorry for,” she admitted, smiling faintly.

“You were just in my entire life, and then you left... and then, bam, I found you again,” you said, the words coming out more candidly than you expected.

“Why would you do that?” she asked, her voice carrying a hint of vulnerability.

“I don’t know, honestly... You kept entering my mind when I was in college. I thought about you... a lot,” you admitted.

Aeri nodded, her expression softening. “I see.”

“We were babies back then, huh?” you chuckled, the tension easing. “And even eight years ago... we were still figuring things out.”

“Yeah,” Aeri smiled, a bittersweet glint in her eyes. “I can’t believe we’re not ‘babies’ anymore.”

You both finally arrived at the Love Lock Bridge, the sky now a deep shade of blue, illuminated by the city lights below. The bridge was alive with the soft hum of conversations you couldn’t quite understand  and the distant sounds of traffic, but you felt a quiet stillness between you and Aeri walked around.

“Ning  and I came here for our anniversary,” Aeri said, her voice almost wistful as she glanced around. “It was hard to find at first. We spent months looking for the perfect spot to place our lock.”

She started scanning the rows upon rows of locks, her fingers brushing over the cold metal as she looked for hers. But while she was focused on finding it, you couldn’t stop staring at her—the way her hair fell over her face as she leaned in, the subtle concentration etched on her features, the soft smile that tugged at her lips every now and then as she searched.

You knew you should probably  be at least trying to help her, but at this moment, it felt like she was a world away, even as she stood right next to you. She was talking about their anniversary, their love, and you couldn’t shake away the sinking feeling.

Then suddenly, She spotted it. A small, worn lock with their names etched in faded letters. Ning and Aeri. She pointed at it.

“There,” she said softly.

Your eyes followed your finger, and she smiled when she saw it.

“Wow... I didn’t think we’d be able to find it.”

You forced a smile, but the heaviness in your chest lingered. After a few moments of small talk about the lock, the conversation lulled, and Aeri checked the time. The soft glow of the city lights and the quiet hum of the evening reminded you both that this reunion, like everything, had to come to an end.

“I should probably head home,” Aeri said quietly, her voice carrying a hint of reluctance. She didn’t want to break the moment, but it was inevitable.

You nodded, your own smile fading. “Yeah, I should  get back too.”

Home. She was going home to someone—to a life that didn’t include you. And as much as you tried to push the thought aside, it stung.

She walked with you toward the bus stop, in silence. The conversation from earlier echoed in your mind—how you had found her again, only to realize that the distance between your lives was now undeniable.

When the bus pulled up, Aeri watched as you stepped inside. She gave you one last, soft smile, the kind that carried more meaning than any words could, just before the doors closed between you.

You said your quiet goodbye, instead of walking her home like you used to, you headed back to your own place. Alone.

The next day arrived with a clearer sky, though the weight of the previous night still lingered faintly in your chest. You weren’t sure how to feel, but Aeri’s early morning text had a way of pulling you out of your thoughts: “Let’s go to  Seoul Tower today! I feel like everyone who visits needs to see it.”

Of course you agreed, a few hours later when you had checked out of your hotel, you found yourself walking toward one of Seoul’s most famous places, N Seoul Tower, with Aeri by your side. The streets were alive with locals and tourists, bustling around market stalls and snapping photos.

There was a vibrant energy of the city surrounding you, but your focus was on Aeri, who was as animated as ever, pointing out landmarks and sharing random facts about the places you passed. It was cute.

“This place is sooo a must for anyone visiting Seoul,” Aeri said with a grin as you passed a shop offering hanbok rentals. “Wanna try one on?” She teased “Or are you more in the mood for food?”

You bantered back. “Let’s try food first. I don’t think I’m ready for a hanbok yet,” you playfully rolled your eyes

You stopped at a food stall, grabbing some hotteok, tteokbokki, and grilled meat skewers.

“You have to try this. It’s my favorite,” she said, handing you a cup of hotteok, her face lighting up as you took a bite of the warm treat “See?! I knew you’d like it.”

The day moved quickly as you wandered through the crowded streets, snapping photos, enjoying the ‘touristy’ vibe. It felt easier, lighter, as if you could both escape into the city, even if just for a while.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden hue over the city, Aeri led you to the top of N Seoul Tower. From the observation deck, you could see all of Seoul stretched out before you. The view was breathtaking, the city bathed in the soft light of the sun.

“This city... it’s strange how much it’s become home,” Aeri said quietly, her voice softer now. She leaned against the railing, staring out at the skyline. “I never thought I’d feel that way when I first moved here.”

You stood beside her. “It’s beautiful,” you said, your own voice hushed, as if speaking too loudly might break the delicate moment. You stared at her as she gazed out over the city, your mind was elsewhere.

For a while, you both stood in silence, taking in the view. In that moment, it didn’t matter where you had come from or where you were going. 

For now, this was enough.

After spending the day embodying a tourist and such, the sun had long set, and the once-bustling streets now felt quieter as you followed Aeri back to her apartment.

You were nervous of course,

“She knows I’m coming. right?” you asked, pausing mid-step.

“Of course,” Aeri replied, leading you up the steps to her apartment—the place she now called home.

As you entered, Aeri's wife, Ning, was already by the door. You weren’t sure what you had expected, but seeing her in the flesh felt surreal, like a final confirmation of the life Aeri had built without you. It felt like the gap between your past with Aeri and her present had suddenly become tangible.

After a brief moment of silence, you gave Ning a polite bow, offering your best attempt at broken Korean. “Annyeonghaseyo,” you said, smiling awkwardly.

Ning returned the gesture with a polite bow of her own. “Hello,” she responded in careful English.

For a second, both of you stood there, staring at each other incredulously, trying to find the right words, the weight of the moment hanging between you.

You nodded, your heart racing slightly. “It’s nice to meet you,” you added, this time in your most broken Korean.

Ning smiled kindly, understanding the effort you were making. “It’s nice to meet you too,” she said

Ning chuckled softly, the slight language barrier immediately apparent but not uncomfortable. “Aeri told me… a lot about you.” she responded in English

“Likewise”

Aeri came to your side, sensing the mix of emotions swirling in the air. “Ning, should we grab something to eat? She’s leaving later tonight, so I think we should eat,” Aeri said in Korean, but you didn’t quite catch the words.

Ning nodded and turned to you, switching back to English. “What do you like to eat?”

You pondered for a moment, thinking of something simple but satisfying. “Hmm… samgyupsal?”

Ning’s face immediately lit up at the mention of her favorite food. “Let’s go get samgyupsal!” she said, her excitement evident.

You three ended up at a cozy late-night bar and restaurant, the soft hum of conversation and clinking of glasses filling the space. Dinner had gone smoothly, the samgyupsal hitting the spot, and now you were all nursing drinks, passing time until your Uber was set to arrive.

“So, have you traveled out of the United States before?” Ning asked in Korean, her expression curious. Of course, you didn’t understand, but Aeri leaned in, her voice low as she translated.

“She’s asking if you’ve been out of the country before,” Aeri said with a small smile, eyes flicking between you and her wife.

You shook your head with a soft laugh. “I’ve been to Japan and Spain before, but I think Korea has been my favorite so far.”

Aeri translated the words, and Ning nodded with a smile.

“She says Seoul is a good place to start when visiting Korea, but if you come back, you should visit Jeju Island. It’s beautiful there,” Aeri translated again, while Ning added in her own bit in Korean, her face lighting up.

“I’ve heard great things about Jeju,” you said, returning the smile. “Maybe next time.”

The small talk flowed easily enough, but as the night wore on, Aeri slowly stopped translating, and Ning sat quietly, sipping her drink. It created an odd dynamic—one where it felt like Aeri was caught between two worlds, and Ning, though polite, was drifting further into her own thoughts.

You couldn’t help it. With the drinks loosening your tongue and emotions swirling inside you, the words began to spill out. Leaning in slightly, you lowered your voice, careful to keep your tone steady. “Aeri… thanks for introducing me to your wife.”

Aeri blinked, caught off guard by the sudden shift in conversation. “Mm,” she mumbled, her gaze flickering between you and her drink, unsure of where you were headed.

“I can tell she really loves you,” you added softly, the sincerity in your voice clear. "I didn't realize liking your wife would hurt this much."

Aeri’s eyes softened, her brow furrowing slightly. “Really?” she asked, her voice almost hesitant, as if she needed confirmation.

“Of course,” you replied, your words gentle, but heavy with the weight of what you weren’t saying.

A moment of silence passed, the sounds of the bar fading into the background as the two of you sat there, the space between you filled with things that had been left unsaid for too long.

You took a sip from your glass, gathering the courage to speak again. “… When we stopped talking back then… I really missed you. Did you miss me?”

The question hung in the air, heavy and raw, as if you’d been holding it in for years.

Aeri’s gaze dropped for a moment, her fingers tracing the rim of her glass. When she finally looked up at you, her voice was softer, almost vulnerable. “Of course I did, Y/n.”

A dry laugh escaped your lips. “But you met your wife then.” There was an edge to your voice, a bitterness that surprised even you.

Aeri responded instantly, almost defensively. “And you had a girlfriend.”

You scoffed softly. “Right,” you murmured, shaking your head with a small smile. “Sorry.”

Aeri fidgeted with the rim of her glass. “It’s okay.”

After a few quiet moments, you exhaled, the weight of your thoughts pressing down on you. The words slipped out before you had the chance to stop them. “Seeing you again… it’s made me have some strange thoughts.”

Aeri lifted her eyes to yours, her gaze gentle but curious. “What kind of thoughts?” she asked softly.

You hesitated, your fingers tracing the rim of your glass as you searched for the right words. “I keep thinking… what if I had come here eight years ago? What if you never left California? If we’d just grown up together, stayed in each other’s lives…” 

You paused, the questions swirling in your mind before you continued, your voice growing softer. “Would I have still searched for you? Would we have dated? Broken up? Gotten married and had kids? Just.. you know, stuff like that.”

You glanced at Aeri, her expression unreadable as she absorbed everything you said.

“And what I’ve realized,” you continued, almost to yourself, “is that California… it was always too small for your ambition. You outgrew it before either of us realized. I’m happy you moved here, Aeri, I really am.

And the truth is, I liked you because you’re you. And who you are…” You trailed off for a moment, letting the words sink in before you finished quietly. “Who you are is someone who leaves.”

Aeri’s lips parted slightly, her breath catching. She looked away for a second, as if trying to gather her thoughts, before her voice came out in a whisper. “The Aeri Uchinaga you remember… she doesn’t exist anymore.”

Her words cracked slightly, as if admitting it to herself for the first time.

You felt a soft chuckle escape you, one tinged with understanding. “I know,” you replied. “I know.”

She nodded, but quickly added, “But… that doesn’t mean she never existed.” Her eyes met yours again, softer now. “I left that version of me behind 20 years ago. I left her with you.”

Her words, the honesty in them, tugged at something deep within you. “I know,” you repeated, meeting her gaze, a strange sense of peace settling over you. “I know we were only twelve… but I really did love her.”

Aeri’s lips curved into a small, sad smile, the kind that holds years of unspoken truths. “I know,” she said, her voice barely a whisper. “You’re crazy, you know that?”

You both let out a quiet laugh, the sound soft but comforting, a brief return to the simplicity of who you used to be.

“I think we must’ve been something together in our past lives,” she said after a while, her voice distant, thoughtful. “Otherwise, why would we be here together right now?”

You thought about her words, turning them over in your mind. “I agree,” you finally said. “But in this life… we obviously just aren’t those people to each other, are we? We’re finally in the same city for the first time in 20 years, and here we are, sitting together... with your wife.”

Your expression softened, as you quietly acknowledged the truth you both knew. “To Ning, you’re someone who stays,” you whispered.

A few moments of silence passed between you and Aeri.

“Who do you think we were to each other in our past lives?” Aeri asked suddenly, her voice soft, almost wistful.

You tilted your head, considering the question. “Hmm… I don’t know,” you said, your tone thoughtful. “Maybe we were forced into a political marriage to stop a war…Or maybe we were just two strangers on a bus who happened to sit next to each other. Or even.. maybe I was just a branch you decided to sit on as a bird on a cold morning.”

You and Aeri chuckled at that, though you could sense a sadness behind it.

You both sat in the quiet for a few more moments, the weight of those imagined lives lingering in the air, until Aeri excused herself to use the restroom, leaving you alone with Ning.

You turned toward her, feeling guilty for the past hour. “I’m sorry we spoke alone,” you said gently, your voice low. “It won’t happen again.”

Ning gave you a small, gentle smile, though there was something sad in her eyes. “Don’t worry,” she replied, her English hesitant but kind. “You two haven’t seen each other in a while. I’m glad I got to meet you Y/n.”

You nodded, her response easing some of the tension in your chest. “I’m glad too,” you said softly, offering her a smile in return

When Aeri returned, you paid the bill and the three of you made your way back to the apartment to grab your luggage. The atmosphere had shifted slightly—quiet, but not uncomfortable, just the natural stillness that follows the end of a long day.

“Hey, I’m gonna walk her to her Uber,” Aeri said to Ning, offering her a small, reassuring smile before turning toward you and the door.

You paused for a moment, glancing at Ning. Bowing slightly, you tried your best to piece together the Korean you’d practiced. “Nice to meet you. Come visit me in California.”

Ning’s eyes softened, and despite the awkwardness of the language barrier, her warmth was undeniable. She returned the bow, her own English just as halting but genuine. “Definitely,” she replied, her smile sincere. You offered her a small smile in return before following Aeri out the door.

As you and Aeri stepped out of the apartment, the cool night air hit you both. You walked side by side down the quiet street, neither of you saying much, both lost in your own thoughts.

The streets were dimly lit, the distant hum of the city lingering in the background. Every now and then, your shoulders brushed, but neither of you acknowledged it. 

As you neared the end of the street, where your Uber was set to pick you up, you both stopped, standing under a flickering streetlight. The quiet air felt thick, the weight of the goodbye neither of you wanted to acknowledge.

Aeri shifted slightly, glancing at you before looking away, her hands fidgeting in her jacket pockets. “Will it be here soon?” she asked, her voice soft, trying to smooth over the tension between you.

You glanced at your phone, the screen glowing back at you. “Two minutes,” you replied, your voice barely above a whisper.

Silence.

Some more silence fell between you two as the night deepened, the distant sounds of the city humming softly around you. Neither of you made any effort to fill the quiet, as if both afraid that words would shatter whatever remained between you.

Finally, the low rumble of a car pulling up signaled that your time was almost up. You glanced at the Uber, then down at your bags. With a sigh, you began to pack them into the trunk, your movements slow, almost hesitant, as if trying to delay the inevitable.

Just as you were about to open the car door, something inside you stirred. You couldn’t let this moment end without saying it.

“Aeri,” you called out, your voice breaking the silence as you turned toward her, your hand resting on the handle of the door.

She looked up, her eyes lighting up just a little as she responded, “Mm?”

For a moment, you hesitated, unsure if you should say the words that had been circling in your mind. But the thought of leaving without voicing them felt unbearable. So you smiled, that bittersweet smile tugging at your lips as you spoke.

“What if this is a past life as well, and we are already something else to each other in our next life? Who do you think we are then?” You could feel a deep sadness in your voice as the words left your lips.

Aeri blinked, the question taking her by surprise. Her eyes searched for yours, as if trying to understand the depth of your meaning. She looked almost vulnerable at that moment, her lips parting slightly before she whispered, “I-I don’t know.” Careful with her words

There was something in the way she said it—like she wanted to know, like she wished she had an answer for you but couldn’t bring herself to find one. The distance between you two felt like more than just the physical space separating you—it was something neither of you could cross.

You had realized just then. At that moment. That she hasn’t been looking at you with any sort of love or longing. She’d just been looking at you with nostalgia. A life before the weight of the world crashed down on her.

You lowered your head with a sad laugh in response to her.

“Alright,” you began, “Goodbye, Aeri Uchinaga.. See you then.” you whispered finally parting ways with the girl you'd known 20 years ago.

A feeling of loss over you, almost suffocating. You still managed a genuine smile because you were happy Aeri was happy. 

Bittersweet. 

“See you.. then, Y/n L/n” she whispered. 

With that, you gave her a small nod, your heart heavy. The air between you felt thick with everything unsaid. Aeri looked back at you, her eyes holding a mix of emotions—nostalgia, sadness, maybe a little bit of both.

You opened the door and got into the backseat of the Uber. You glanced out the window one last time, catching a glimpse of Aeri standing there under the streetlight. She looked a little blurry in the dim light, but still the same Aeri you’ve always known.

For a second, your eyes met again. Neither of you waved, neither of you spoke. You both knew this was how it had to end.

You took a deep breath and nodded to the driver, and the car pulled away.

You silently stared out the window as the scenery of Seoul flashed by while tears streamed down your face. 

You’ll never know that she was crying too. Harder than she ever had before.

[throatgoat4u]

late on the first day

word count: 0.6k

summary: it’s the first day of senior year, and dotty's already running late. of all classes, it had to be for your favorite class—art. just when you think things can’t get any worse... they do.

warnings: none :)

a/n: i lowkey already made this a like a month and a half ago but like............ yeah.... also this won the popular vote on what au i should release for next and so yeah. idk why i never put the intro to this au out but oh well. also, the reader's name will be dotty. also, the taglist is not official and is just a taglist of people who commented/reblogged the moodboards i had created so yeah! enjoy!

toodles sluts :)

you sprinted up the stairs, heart pounding as you weaved your way to the 2½ floor where the art wing was tucked away. there was no way you could be late—not on the first day of senior year, and definitely not to your favorite class. art had always been your escape. ever since you were little, you’d been an artist at heart, constantly sketching, coloring outside the lines (literally), experimenting with oil pastels, acrylics, and your personal favorite—watercolors.

but being the “art kid” had its downsides. while other girls were out at parties, shopping sprees, or obsessing over boys, you were lost in your sketchbook, shading imaginary worlds. it didn’t take long for people to notice how different you were. the teasing started small but grew sharper over the years, each comment isolating you a little more. by the time middle school ended, you were already used to being alone.

losing your best friend when she moved to another state only solidified it. since then, solitude had become your constant companion. but art? art was still yours. and that was why you couldn’t be late today. not when it was the one place you actually belonged.

you slipped into the classroom just as the bell rang, heart still racing from the mad dash up the stairs. scanning the seating chart at the front, you were relieved to find your assigned seat in the back corner, far from prying eyes. but that relief evaporated the moment you saw who you’d be sitting next to.

christopher sturniolo.

your blood ran cold. of course, it had to be him. chris wasn’t just popular—he was the most popular guy in school. every girl wanted him, and every guy either wanted to be him or be his best friend. there was no in-between. it didn’t help that he was the star of the hockey team, the golden boy who had secured a spot on varsity as a freshman and led the team to state championships every year since. he had it all: the looks, the talent, and, of course, the girl.

eva—the captain of the cheer team and the only girl who could possibly match his popularity. together, they were the school’s golden couple, envied and admired by everyone. chris was untouchable, living in a world completely separate from yours. he didn’t know you existed, and you were pretty sure he never would.

but you had noticed him.

in middle school, you had the biggest, most ridiculous crush on him. it started in sixth grade when he held the door open for you that one time, and it didn’t fade until the end of eighth grade. you were completely obsessed with chris sturniolo. you had filled an entire sketchbook front to back with drawings of him—his smile, his eyes, even the two of you together in scenes that only existed in your imagination. you remembered sketching his face more times than you could count, lost in a fantasy where he actually knew who you were.

but to him, you were nobody. just another face in the crowded hallways. he didn’t even know you well enough to recognize you as the girl who ate lunch in the bathroom or hid under the bleachers—just like everyone else did.

you tried everything to get over him that summer, finally deciding to write him a love letter, just like laura jean in to all the boys i’ve loved before. you poured your heart out in perfect penmanship, sealed it in a beautifully customized envelope with the prettiest wax seal you could find, and tucked it away in your love letter box, where it would stay forever, unread and forgotten.

or at least, that was the plan. but now, sitting next to chris for an entire the entire year? yeah, this was going to be a problem

taglist: @freshloveee. @sofia-is-a-sturniolo-triplet-fan. @heart-sdiary. @sturnshood

[snakes-in-mirrors]

heyo! I'm not here for long but i really love your style! your characters emit so much personality i cant help but look at the art for a while! idk if you said this before but, how did you come up with them? Did they just appear or did you consciously want to make new characters? was there something that inspired you? (idk if these questions might be weird ;; i just like "behind the scenes" esque facts)

Thank you! First of all, I have to say that Matthias is not my character, he belongs to my co-author @sinealas! Next, I will answer on my own behalf and about Lucian in particular.

Lucian as a character appeared a long time ago, but he was in a state of "half-existence". Initially, I had another story about another character, and Lucian was his uncle, his father's brother. His fate was simply very sad and I didn't know what to do with him - he was alone, having lived most of his life first with an abusive and cruel father, then taking care of the old estate (still alone), then selling everything and moving closer to his brother to spend money on dubious places, dubious connections and in the end slowly going crazy and losing himself from his mediumistic abilities. Even the Mirror Prince didn't exist at that time, he had no name, no personality and had a completely different role. I didn't want to add a character to the story whose only existence was to be miserable and then die without ever getting anything good out of life. I'll be honest, I hate it when writers in different media do that to make the story "more realistic, more brutal and more mature".

Anyway, Lucian was hanging in the background as a potential character for a while, but then my co-writer came to my rescue. That's how Matthias was born! Their story was also different initially (+ it was in a fantasy setting), but many things remained or just changed a little. It's been about 7 years since we first wrote them, so their characters and history have grown a lot in that time. I don't even know how to describe the process when we come up with stories and characters. They just appear in our heads, we can jokingly discuss some interactions and then BOOM, it becomes part of the plot.

Actually, I've always created characters. At first, it was animal characters (you know, inspired by Lion King, Balto, etc.). Then came human characters, around the time I was about 10 years old and my inspiration was "Heroes of Might and Magic III" game. I was too little and didn't have the brains to play even one campaign, so I just played random maps and made up my own stories lol. It was never some kind of "make characters and write their story" intention, they just appeared in my head, acquired character, history and the smallest details. So now some of my characters are already 20+ years old. I don't know how interesting this train of thought was for you, but I tried. :D

Also here are some first drawings with Lucian:

[your-unfriendlyghost]

“Under the Drive-In Fence”

Jk jk- Halloween art no. 2: Over the Garden Wall au, anyone?

(kinda a collab w/ myself- I drew most of the background a few years ago but didn’t do anything with it lol. Did update it a decent amount tho for this)

“The ol’ black train’s a comin’, scraping ‘long the iron. You don’t need no ticket, boys, it’ll take ya in its time…”

-

Concept is that since the Unknown in Over the Garden Wall is basically a pretty autumnal purgatory, it’s where our boys Johnny and Dally went after dying.

From Johnny’s pov, he woke up after meeting Dally in Windrixville here in the forest with Dally. And also with some mysterious burn scars that he doesn’t remember getting.

Dally claims not to know where they are, only that they “jumped onto a train” and are somewhere vaguely “north of Tulsa”. Johnny buys his story at first, but it slowly becomes clear that Dally’s lying- and plus, Johnny keeps having dreams where he remembers bits and pieces of the hospital and the fire and all the other shit that went down.

Dally, however, knows they’re dead. He remembers everything- hazily, but enough to know for sure. So he tells Johnny that they’re just trying to get to his “Ma’s place”, when actually he’s just trying to keep Johnny from moving on and going to…whatever it is that happens after purgatory.

Their arcs, I imagine, go something like this: Dally learns to accept that the after life is a mystery and that he has to be okay with that if he ever wants to escape these woods- all while experiencing the sort of peaceful experiences he never got to have in life, from weird festivals to live music to sunsets.

Johnny, on the other hand, learns to come out of his shell a bit- the weird world of the Unknown is easy for Johnny to slot into, as he’s observant and insightful and often figures out the mysteries before Dally does. He also learns to accept his death, but not before tromping around the woods for a while with one of his best friends.

As for the Unknown, I imagine it’s a bit more of a mix of old New England and old southern/southwest culture than just New England inspired alone. Like maybe the woodsman is an old cowboy or ranger or something, yk? Just so it still has some Oklahoma-ish-ness to it lol.

Idk, those are my thoughts on it right now! Might draw/write more about it later, idk, but in the meantime that’s good enough- Let me know your thoughts on it!

[kitasgloves]

idk if you’ll see this and it’s low key my first time requesting but like..Dazai and chuuya with orange cat girlfriend?

I'm ready to deliver anon 💪🏻

I've discussed this with a friend before and agreed that NAKAHARA CHUUYA is a Norwegian forest cat. I don't see Chuuya as some sort of guard dog or a chihuahua (it's fucking ridiculous). Sure, he's loyal to the Port Mafia but he's a pretty independent person. Norwegian forest cats are typically aggressive and cautious around strangers but they become affectionate when they get familiar with you. And I think that is very much like Chuuya.

Now, Chuuya with an orange cat gf is an interesting pair. Usually, I view Chuuya as someone who's reserved and can depend on himself, he does not seek chaos nor prefers to get entangled in it, however, you seem to attract trouble wherever you go. Your boyfriend always finds you in ridiculous situations that end up in catastrophe.

You try to cook spaghetti for date night, the kitchen almost sets aflame. Going on a date with him at a restaurant, you two were escorted out for getting into a fight with another couple (Chuuya caught the guy ogling you, got pissed off, and tried to kill him all the while you filmed it instead of prying him off the poor guy). Celebrating your anniversary by going on a romantic camping trip with him, you two ended up getting lost from your tent while getting chased by wolves (don't worry Chuuya saved you).

Your natural curiosity was usually the cause of trouble. You seemed to love to fuck around and find out. You're fortunate that the gravity manipulator adored you or else he would've lost his patience long ago. Chuuya does think that your clumsiness and playfulness add to your charm. You were always so outgoing and bright that it was difficult to resist you.

The mafioso was cautious of you at the beginning. He was closed off and didn't engage with you, since you were just a random civilian and he was part of the Port Mafia. You would always see him at your local stores or even the park just relaxing. However, with your persistence in constantly bothering him, he was starting to see how you genuinely wanted to get along with him. He tries to get to know you while slowly letting his guard down. When he sensed no maliciousness from your intentions, Chuuya felt like he could breathe easily.

The way you tugged on his heartstrings by learning all about his preferences made him think that he had to keep you in his life. The fact that you let him be vulnerable around you solidified the moment that he fell for you. It was a long time before he confessed to you, he was afraid at first considering he has lost a lot of dear people in his life, and he wouldn't want to permanently lose you. But after pondering and mustering enough courage, he confesses to you. Chuuya was bombarded with your sweet and wet kisses all over his face, and it made his insides melt.

There are even moments where you draw out the playful side in him too. Just like cats, you and Chuuya enjoy playing around. I would see you two going on dates that involve extracurricular activities like ice skating/rollerblading, hiking, swimming, etc. I also think Chuuya would love to take you on expensive and fancy dates just to see you dolled up for the occasion. And yes, he loves to spoil you with clothes and jewelry as well.

However, I think he's a bit peeved with your eccentric taste in food combinations or music. The executive spotted you mixing chocolate with pasta (rip Italians) once and he never wanted to talk about it again. You also love sending him weird playlists that have incredibly specific names, nonetheless, he still listens to them during his spare time.

"Babe, what are you doing up there?"

Chuuya peeked up on the tall tree where you were stuck, clinging to one of the branches. You grinned down at your boyfriend. Chuuya sighs.

"You know what, don't explain"

"Catch me!"

"What? ...shit! Wait—!"

Without having enough time to activate his ability, Chuuya ended up getting squished on the pavement by his girlfriend. He groans while he feels your giggling weight on top of him.

"Baby, you could've at least waited until I activated gravity"

"Whoops, sorry. Are you hurt?"

The gravity manipulator shakes his head but you lean down to kiss him, hoping any bit of physical pain would magically go away. This makes Chuuya smile and envelope you in his arms.

"You are one silly girl, [Name]"

"Can you carry me back home?"

You batted your eyelashes at him and you know it's enough for him to yield. Oh, how can he say no to his eccentric but lovable girlfriend?

Okay, we all know and agree with the fact that DAZAI OSAMU is a black cat. He's both weird and mysterious. So, him being paired up with an orange cat gf seems natural. Black cats are perceived as intelligent and aloof so I had a feeling that you met Dazai during his time at the Port Mafia.

You were nothing but a disposable civilian who had a quirky personality. And yet this quirky personality of yours has managed to capture his heart. You always found Dazai in public places (I mean, he's always wearing dark clothes so he was easy to spot), and you often tried to strike up a conversation with him. When you found out about his suicidal tendencies, you didn't mock or scold him. Weirdly enough, you started giving him more unique ideas on how to off himself.

"Try mixing bleach with a milkshake, I heard you wouldn't even taste the bleach"

Dazai suddenly looked at you with glimmering eyes and proposed for you and him to commit double suicide. Shockingly enough, you agree. So, when you both jump into a river and Dazai ends up being alive but you haven't emerged from the water yet, his body turns cold.

"Oh shit"

He starts to frantically search for you in the water. To his relief though, you finally swam up to the surface with...is that a fish in your mouth?

"Look! I caught one while I was at the bottom of the river!"

From that day forward, Dazai has officially fallen for you. However, he doesn't confess his feelings to you yet. It was not until he left the Port Mafia and began working at the Armed Detective Agency. He hasn't seen you ever since but that doesn't mean he doesn't think of you often. He has dreamt of your face with that fish in your mouth.

The moment you reunited with him felt like destiny. He was chasing a criminal down the street with Kunikida when all of a sudden, the criminal got hit by a car. His breath hitched when he saw you stepping out of the car and rushing to see if the criminal you hit was alright. Dazai felt like he was seeing you for the first time again.

You recognized him immediately and called him by his first name, which made his heart flutter. Dazai felt like he couldn't waste another moment without telling you how he felt. So, just like back then, he offers you to jump off into a river like before in another double suicide attempt. This time, he feels glad that both of you emerged from the water.

At that moment he tells you how he loved you then and now. You tackled him into a hug which sent you both plunging into the water again. But you gave Dazai a proper kiss when you two swam back to land.

I have a feeling that Dazai loves to enable your weird behavior. He'd encourage you to try outrageous things like diabolical food combinations or bungee jumping without the rope (he swears he's not trying to kill you, okay?). He doesn't have to stress about you being harassed by other men since your logic is to behave as crazy as possible so you won't get picked on. But if some bastard persists in bothering you, all Dazai has to do is stand menacingly behind you, truly channeling his scary black cat aura. It's enough to send them away while shitting bricks.

I've mentioned before that you give Dazai suicide ideas, it's clear to him now that it's all satirical. However, when you tried to off yourself once (as a joke of course), thinking it would make your boyfriend laugh, instead he firmly grabs you by the shoulders and gazes at you intently with his black eyes that are void of light.

"Don't ever do that again"

He scared you at first and almost made you cry. Dazai felt bad and apologized to you by cuddling you and feeding you your favorite food. As much as the thought of double suicide excites him, the idea of you dying genuinely disturbs him.

Dates with him aren't expensive. He's down with strolling with you on the streets and kissing on sidewalks or going stargazing on the rooftop with your legs dangling on the edge. He adored your jokes and silly pet names that you would call him. He'd pet your head affectionately like a cat.

Dazai would often indulge in your antics. You two enjoy chasing each other all over the house or outside like cats. You love plopping on top of him and rubbing your cheek against his chest. Even though he's on the skinnier side, Dazai is strong enough to support your weight and carry you around. He too enjoys snuggling against you and stealing all your body warmth.

You two were walking home after another double suicide attempt. Both of you were soaking wet from jumping into the river. People gave you and your boyfriend weird looks as you two entered the local fast food. Dazai was fishing his pockets and chuckling before whispering to you.

"Darling, I may have lost my wallet again"

You paused mid-chew on your burger and blinked at Dazai. You smiled reassuringly at him.

"Don't worry I'll pay—"

Your stomach drops when you can't feel your wallet in your pockets. You cast Dazai a look and he immediately knows it. Both of you looked at your surroundings and back towards each other. Immediately, you and Dazai made a run for it, bolting out of the establishment with one of the employees cussing at the two of you. Dazai couldn't be happier and content spending the remainder of his existence with you like this.

[bbyboybucket]

You know it’s taken me a long long time to understand why Bucky would want to be a congressman bc it’s always felt so random. As soon as I found out (what prolly a year ago now?) it shocked me, had me say the biggest “huhhhhh???” ever. It’s always confused me since mainly bc it’s just such a big jump and development from where we last seen him in TFATWS. Like that’s such a huge development to happen off screen, that it made it seem almost out of character.

But now I think I kinda get it. Yes, he’s clearly doing better mentally and has support (Sam n his family) that’s helped him feel better and grow socially. But honestly, I can set that aside. Because even that didn’t make it fully click for me, cause it still was the question of why politics, why congress? Why, even with new found confidence, would he choose such a public position, that’s completely social, and where he’s constantly in the eyes of everyone? And yeah, I do think part of it is that he knows he can help ppl with his decades of knowledge and experience on the government, that he wants to stand up for people who need help and protect them. And that he can use his position to not only try to help citizens in the regular way but also prevent shady stuff from going on (just like how secretly Hydra had a bunch of congressmen, senators, blah blah working with them).

Like yeah, I definitely think that’s playing into it, but you know, even still….it was the question of why he would choose that method, the path of being a congressman, to achieve that.

And then it hit me what the two other factors in this decision could be. It finally makes sense to me. One, I think Sam’s speech in the finale of TFATWS planted the idea. When Sam was speaking to all the government officials (can’t remember what they were, like senators or something idk?) and telling them “to do better” and actually help the people who need them. We all know the scene, we know the speech, we all know the way Bucky was looking at Sam while he was giving it. I think Sam inspired Bucky right there, that speech planted the idea in his head and motivated him to be that person Sam was talking about, to be the official that does better, that does good for citizens. I mean, Bucky even said himself in BNW, that Sam “gives people something to aspire to”. Obviously Bucky’s words were weighted and personal, drawing from his own experiences with Sam. It very much had the implication of “I look up to you”. But maybe it wasn’t just Bucky meaning how Sam inspired him to get healthier and be a better person in general. Maybe, he also meant Sam specifically inspired him to do good by getting into congress. When you look at Bucky’s new job in relation to that specific scene, that speech, the progression starts to make a lot more sense.

And that’s just the first reason it started to make sense to me. Now on to the second, which made it click even more. Because even with his new, happier self and the motivation Sam gave him, being a congressman seems like something out of Bucky’s comfort zone. Think about his characterization the last time we seen him, this is someone who deals with a lot of insecurity, scrutiny from others, and isn’t the most social person. Seriously, last time we seen him he was barely willing to socialize, much less be friendly with most people, and even with the people he does like, let’s be honest, he’s socially awkward. Why would someone like that wanna be in the spotlight, why would he wanna have all that attention on him? Running for office, being in the public eye, and working with tons and tons of people is absolutely something out of his comfort zone. Because let’s be real, Bucky has some issues that aren’t ever gonna fully go away, even if they get better, they’re always gonna be there.

But the thing is, instead of the insecurity, social struggles, and public scrutiny holding him back…..I think they’re actually motivating him. I don’t think he’s just pushing past those issues, overcoming the fear so he can do the job. No, I think they’re part of the reason why he’s doing. I think he’s trying to combat those issues by getting in this new position. Even if it’s subconsciously. Cause Bucky cares so so so deeply about what other people think about him, he very much values the opinion of others, his reputation. He craves validation from others and relies on people seeing him in a good light. I don’t even need to go super deep into this, because it’s evident all over every project he’s been in.

Think about what Sam said to him in TFATWS, “You’ve gotta stop looking to other people to tell you who you are.” Because Bucky does that. He’s always done that, even before he became the winter soldier. Cause really, all you gotta do is look back to 40s Bucky. Look back to TFA. Because no matter how subtle it is, in that movie he is constantly wanting to be liked. He was constantly worried about how he was being seen, even when it came to how Steve saw him. He had to be the guy that people thought highly of. And now, decades later, that’s applies even more. Hell, even the tiniest, most subtle example, is his reaction when that senator or whatever shook his hand and thanked him in the finale. And it’s not just good things he reacts to, he clearly takes negative stuff to heart very easily too. I mean, think about when Walker made comments about his past. Bucky was even affected by the words/opinions of a man he didn’t even like. He absolutely, 100% relies on other people’s opinions of him. And what better way is there to change your reputation, change people’s views on you, and get praise and validation, than to be a congressman? He needs to prove to the world that he’s good, he needs them to like him and validate that he’s a good person. He needs the everyone else to believe that and say it first. He needs other people to reinforce the idea that he’s good and worthy, so that he can finally start to believe it himself. So maybe, this whole congressman thing isn’t really such a big switch up, maybe it’s not that out of character. Maybe it’s just a manifestation of what’s been there all along, but it manifested in a way that wasn’t expected.

And that my friends, is the two major reasons this character arc now makes sense to me: because Sam inspired him and because his own need for validation.

[afraidparade]

Hey Uncle Cas, I’ve been wanting to get into animation more recently and i was wondering if you had any tips, tricks or advice on how i should teach myself. I struggle a lot with working on projects for multiple days on end, do you have any advice on how i could best work through this struggle?

i think there's a lot of resources online for learning the basics (i really like manu mercurial's insights on animation and hearing his experiences), but the bit you mentioned about committing to a long-term project is super real and honestly a whole separate skill i don't think a lot of people realize is part of learning animation. idk about other animators, but for me i'm very motivated by an end result, so just the thought of how rewarding it'll be to have a finished piece is what drives me through really long projects. but i think a way to work up to this - and to practice a lot of animation techniques in a low stakes environment - is to start off with lots of storyboarding!

storyboarding is nice because it's fast, it's messy, and even if it's super unrefined, you can still kind of get the reward of feeling like you completed something when you make one. because like even if it's messy your little guys are still moving around and that's badass. the most important thing about boarding to me is that you DON'T let yourself get caught up on too many details, you should really focus on gestures, timing, and movement, and only make detailed sketches for important keyframes for impact

i boarded a LOT when i was first getting into animation, and i think i only finished them a good 1% of the time, lol. it's just nice to see your drawings move around, and it opens your mind to what they COULD look like if they were finished. from storyboarding you can try animatics, and from animatics you can do animation, or you can jump around in whatever way feels right -- those are just the baby steps i recommend for when you're learning + want to increase your endurance for sitting in front of the same project for what could be weeks at a time

here's a snippet from a thing i never finished (but might later....who knows.....) to kind of demonstrate what i mean about detail/timing/movement, where i try a bunch of weird stuff with movement, transitions, perspective, expressions, etc. it's just much easier to experiment and learn if you're not trying to be a perfectionist about it. i also uploaded the storyboard for the main character on youtube a while ago which is. somehow even messier than this one LOL

[generational-atrophy]

hiii can i request russia, canada, germany and greece seeing their s/o wearing their clothes for the first time? good luck on ur finals :D !!

hetalia russia, canada, germany, and greece seeing their s/o wear their clothes

1.0k words ~ gender neutral headcanons / scenarios

tw: none!

a/n: holy shit tthis request is so old that its a new finals season :sob: guys im trying. ALSO idk how to write greece. but hopefully its ok

Russia

Ivan wouldn’t know what to do with himself if you wore his clothing. Like, he just never expected anyone to ever… want to do that?

Plus, if you’re any shorter than 6’ 5”, his clothes are more like blankets than anything wearable.)

Mornings at Ivan's house were always cold. His dacha had been built long before the invention of home heating systems, and he had always refused to modernize anything he owned.

So, when you finally woke up, you grabbed one of Ivan's jackets to keep yourself warm while you made breakfast. It was huge, on him and you, and lined with fur from animals killed centuries ago.

The house was quiet aside from the quiet sizzling of an egg on a pan. Or at least, it was until you heard the dull thuds drawing closer behind you.

In an instant, Ivan wrapped his firm arms around you, picking you up off the floor for a second.

“G-Good morning to you too,” You tease him softly. All he responds with is a quiet grunt, muffled as he buries his face in your hair.

“Should I make you something too?”

He shook his head, “You are too perfect to be cooking right now...”

“Aww, Ivan...”

”Please wear things like this more often...“ He mumbled, seemingly embarrassed.

”What, your things? Should I steal more jackets?“

“Yes... please...“ He said, and you could feel his smile, even if you couldn't see it.

He just can't get enough of you wearing his stuff. He thinks it makes you two look like a real couple. Then everyone will know that you're his (:

Canada

From the start of your relationship, Matthew had been trying to subtly coerce you into wearing his clothes. It's like, one of his main relationship goals.

So if you did it without him asking, his brain would fry.

“D-Dear, what are you- a-are you...?” Matthew's shaking voice makes it way past your earbuds, which you promptly rip out.

You turn away from your desk to face him, and his face immediately lights up.

”Sorry, I- I didn't have an-“ Is all you sputter out before you're interrupted by a hug that sends you tumbling backwards. He's warm as he curls around you, resting his head in the crook of your neck.

”Oh. Uh-”

“W-Wait, sorry... I- I didn't mean to um-”

“You're f-”

“No- I mean-” He pulls away, letting go of you completely.

“Math-”

“Sorry!”

“MATTHEW,” You finally manage to break him out of his stuttering state, “It's fine.”

He averts his gaze as he stands before you, awkwardly playing with his hoodie cuffs, ”I- I just really think you're um- cute in that...“

”Matt, it's just a hoodie.“

”Yeah but it- it has um... that...“ He points to the maple leaf pattern covering the hoodie. That makes you pause, looking up at him like he said something weird.

“It's just leaves.”

His cheeks immediately turn the same shade as the leaves on his hoodie, ”W-Well! It's better than stars and stripes!“

Seriously, anything that shows that you're showing him over America will make him go crazy.

Germany

Ludwig doesn't have a lot of casual clothes, so you're kind of limited in your “stealing t-shirts for pyjamas” options

And sorry to disappoint, but his stoic demeanour isn't getting majorly cracked even by that.

It was a rare occurrence for Ludwig to let you do anything around the house. He cooked the meals, he cleaned the dishes, he did most of the laundry, and the sweeping, mopping, and literally any other task that had to be done. So, in a moment you thought would never come, you were actually excited to be doing the dishes for him.

But, because of his disaster of a “modern, ergonomic” sink, that meant getting water all over your shirt. And seeing how you were wearing something nice for a date night with him, you only had one choice. Throwing on one of his torn and faded old t-shirts.

After a few minutes of washing the dishes alone, Ludwig took his place beside you, leaning against the counter and watching you intently.

“Yes?“ You prompt him, and he immediately looks a little embarrassed.

”Thanks for doing this.“

”You do this every night, so like, it's fine?“

”Y-Yes, but, I still appreciate it.“ He tells you quickly, before placing a hang on your shoulder. You turn off the water for a moment, plunging the kitchen into silence again.

Before you could register it, you were pulled closer to him. 

“You should wear my things more often…” He mumbled before leaning down to kiss your cheek.

“Buy more normal person clothes then.”

Then he pulled away with a groan, “OK, the moment is over.”

Greece

Heracles probably didn't even notice until you said something. Anytime he's looking at you, your clothes are the last thing he registers.

”Oh, wait... uh- sorry,“ You blurt out once you look down and remember what you're wearing, ”I forgot to ask if I could...“

He looks over you as your hands fidget with the hem of his oversized t-shirt. The design said something in Greek, but all you could make out were the words ”FOOD“ and ”CATS” (It was more important that it was comfortable than stylish.) For his part, he looked completely disinterested in whatever you were saying.

“If you could what?” Heracles asks, his tone dry and tired.

“If I could wear your shirt...”

“Oh,” Then he glances over your direction, barely looking over his tea, ”Yes, I see that now.“

”Do you... care?“

”No.“ He says as if what you had just asked was as obvious as the colour of the sky. Despite that, it didn't seem to bother or excite him in the slightest.

He might find it a little amusing when his clothes don't fit you, but generally he doesn't care. He believes strongly in the idea that ”What's his is yours, and what's yours is his.“

Because of that, he'll steal your clothes too. And he might rip them. Oops.