#and he can have whatever design he would like for his notebook

[shewhoeatssand]

aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa I love Kaneki so much!!!!!! I want to do puzzles with him and watch his expression as he tries to figure out what to do with a difficult piece!!!!!! I want to paint still-lifes of the coffees he makes!!!! I want to take him to the nursery to pick out new bulbs to plant in the spring!!!!!!! I want to buy Kaneki a desk!!!!!!!!!!!

[bloodchapell]

he loves to hear you yap - armin a.

brief summary: just thinking about how cute armin is and him loving to listen to EVERY word you say

what to expect: alt and very nerdy reader, equally nerdy armin, mutual pinning

your sword’s note: really just thinking of how attentive and good of a listener he would be and I ACHE for it. all past and future parts of this au series available in my mistresslist

A month or so had passed since the semester started. Normally after philosophy class you would go to the library with Armin. He had convinced you to play Minecraft and you had convinced him to play Dress to Impress.

“Agh!!!” You screamed and turned off your iPad.

“Shut the hell up!” Pieck, your roommate, yelled at you.

“Sorry I forgot that not all of us have to wake up at 6 am to deliver a calf…” You apologized and she sighed.

“I will say the same when you are trying to finish up some jacket or whatever it is that fashion designers do.” She joked half asleep. “Why did you scream either way? The Sleeping Beauty nightmare again?”

“That is a very serious nightmare!” You argued. “No it wasn’t that, Armin just gifted me VIP in Dress to Impress…”

“That is so cute… now get married and let me go back to sleep, that 75 pound baby calf isn’t going to deliver itself.”

<WHATTT THANKS MIN😭> you. 2:47 am

<YPU DIDNT HAVE TO YOURE SO SWEET> you. 2:47 am

<It’s okay! I just really liked your vkei theme outfit and was very conflicted when seeing that you didn’t win… They really should made an “only pros” server, these people do not know what vkei is.> armin 👼🏼. 2:48 am

That made you laugh. He had only learned about vkei the day before, when you guys hanged out and he asked what vkei entailed.

After some more rounds of playing, you decided it was time to go to sleep, you said good night to Armin and left the electronics in the table by your bed. But before you could actually fall asleep your mind stared thinking about Armin. The wandering thoughts regarding the blonde would fall like a current that cannot be stopped, the way in which his hands would softly write in his notebook and his handwriting was so small and dainty, the way in which his slender fingers would hold the black pen, the way he would always pay attention and participate in class, his comments always so educated, organized and concise, like he had some inside knowledge and some inside understanding about it all; yes he was a little timid regarding social interactions, but when it came to scholarly matters, he was an eminence and his words would flow out of his pretty plump pale pink lips like it was just any other topic. He was so smart and so attractive when rambling about the ambiguity of morals and religion and science and politics, his bangs and longish hair framing his face and his lashes deepening the gaze of his eyes. Goddamnit was he handsome.

“Is Malice Mizer not on Spotify?” With his phone in hand Armin asked in class the next day, following like a robot Eren’s recommendations on how to behave normally when having such a fat crush.

“How do you know that?” You asked whispering in class.

“I liked the songs you showed me.” He mentioned still holding his phone. Your heart almost ran out of your chest when hearing that; not only he he understood vkei fashion to know that the fellow Dress to Impress players were ass, but was also interested in it beyond what you had explained.

And he was interested, not only because he would have the opportunity to have a topic of conversation with you, but because he trusted in your judgement so much that he understood that if you liked vkei as a subculture, it was for a valid and good reason and therefore he must check it out.

“Yeah sadly they are not in Spotify… I can recommend you some other bands if you want though.” You said and he nodded immediately, saying he would be delighted. You typed Sito Magus, SHAZNA, Gulu Gulu, Kaya and MEJIBRAY on his notes app. “Some of them can be a little heavy, I don’t know if you like that.”

“I don’t mind.” He smiled sweetly; he didn’t really mind because he was used to Eren and Mikasa blasting death black evil obscure metal.

Armin was trying his absolute best to not dissolve into a mass of anxiety and embarrassment, he kept thinking about every recommendation Eren gave him and even though sometimes it seemed like nothing he could do was powerful enough to mask his feelings, he trusted logic and knew that up to a point it could work.

"You said you had a playlist with all your favorite songs ever right? Can we listen to them together while you explain to me why you like them maybe?" He asked impulsively without stopping to think, almost immediately regretting the request before seeing your eyes glimmering like eyes do in cartoons and seeing you nod. Truth be told he was also fascinated with the way you spoke about your interests, you were so passionate and analytic of the things you liked that he could be convinced to do almost anything if you described it like you do with the things you love.

So after class you invite him to your dorm and you both sit on the carpeted floor while you go over every song and he listens to your comments and tries to hear the songs as beautifully as you do.

[homiesexual-or-homosexual]

Mutt

Pairing: Jackson! Joel Miller x reader

Warnings/Genre: a horribly horribly long slow burn, excuse any typos, fluff, slight angst, offstandish reader, slightly overbearing new friend (not canon character), potentially cute dogs, jealous friend, said friend has a crush on Joel, Joel gets hurt on patrol, mentions of blood, reader gets a cut on her hand, slightly romantically tense situations, let me know if I missed anything!!

Work Count: 8k

A/n: I've been telling this story to myself as I fall asleep at night and have decided to write down what I've daydreamed up so far!! Wish me luck! I hope this is good. . . And it's so long. . I'm so sorry

--- --- ---

Maria and Tommy found you on a patrol near the river.

It was a cold December this year, and your ratty, thin clothes were making it hard to stay warm. The only way to stay warm was to keep moving. Maria wasn't going to take you in, deadset on letting you pass around the town once the K9 cleared you.

Tommy wasn't so set. He figured that Jackson had the room. You were only one more person. Jackson would always use more people for patrols and work around Jackson.

The couple bickered back and forth for a few moments and once decided, Tommy shucked his jacket around your shoulders and gave you a ride back to Jackson. Once there, they settled you in a house across from them, not directly across more diagonally. You showered and they brought you to the mess hall.

You sat with Tommy and Maria, as well as another man and his kid, and another lady who seemed to have implanted herself in the family. She talked a lot. But you could care less, scarfing down your very delicious food was more important. You could feel the eyes of the man and child on you the entire time you ate.

That night, you slept warmly with a full stomach.

You woke early the next morning, so early the sun was barely up. As you finished dressing in some clothes that Maria had found you, knocking was heard.

You followed the noise to your front door and opened it to see Maria. She mentioned that she had a job for you. You nodded and pulled on a warm, heavy jacket. She led you to the stables and past the horse stalls to a back corner.

There were a few kennels back here, ten at the most. There were dogs in every one.

Maria explained that these were dogs that had wandered into Jackson, or that had been picked up on patrols. They'd been dropped here as no one had the time to train feral dogs, and since you were new you'd been granted that job.

You thanked Maria, and she disappeared into the barn.

You took notes that the dogs had the bare minimum. Like just enough food to get by, a blanket per dog, and a bowl or two per kennel. You hmmpfed and noted that the dogs also had no real way to get outside if they needed, much less a designated area to go outside.

You got to work almost immediately. Introducing yourself to the dogs, filling food bowls from a bag stuffed into a corner and filling water bowls from a spicket on the wall at the end of the little hallway/room. You found a notebook and pencil, deciding to use it for information on the dogs, like scars and particular body characteristics. You found out, just by looking and feeling, that one of the dogs was pregnant. You weren't sure with how many.

You worked the rest of the day cleaning their kennels and fixing it up with your limited tools of whatever you found in the area.

Around the start of afternoon, there was a knock on the doorway of the room, and a cheery call of your name.

It was Debby, the lady who talks a lot from dinner yesterday night, "Hey! How you doing today? I didn't get to hear you talk a lot today? Oh.. You got put on mutt duty.." She trailed off at the end, giving disgruntled looks around the small room.

You nodded, standing up and wiping off your hands, "I'm settling in, slowly. Can I help you with something?"

"Oh well," She paused as she twirled a finger. "I was just on the way to lunch and heard you worked in here now. Just decided to stop by and see if you're hungry."

You thought for a few moments, noting your empty stomach as you'd accidentally skipped breakfast, "Sure. I'm at a good stopping point for right now."

"Great!" Debby grabbed your arm and skipped her way through the barn and into the open. "Have you met Joel yet?"

"Joel?" You asked, not picturing a face to the name.

"Joel Miller!" Debby was exasperated in her answer. "Tommy's brother! He sat with us at dinner last night with his kid."

His face was blurry in memory, but you kind of made the connection. You nodded at Debby's words.

"Joel is so great!" Debby started loudly. "He's so handsome and strong! And he's so kind and willing to do almost anything for anybody!! If only I could get him alone, even just for a few moments, but that kid of his is just glued to his side."

Her cheeriness died back as she mentioned Joel's kid, almost as if Debby has a resentment toward the 14-year-old. You couldn't make sense of her rambling. You'd spent so much time outside that you really didn't understand the way Debby felt towards Joel.

When you both entered the mess hall, you dished up. Debby's gasp pulled you from your focus and she gripped your jacket sleeve. You looked at her, brows scrunched in an irritated way.

"Joel's here!" She whispered at you, shaking you just a bit.

You turned fully to look in the direction your companion was looking in. You spotted Tommy and Maria first, and the presumed Joel and his kid sat across from them. They were engaging in something casual and eating slowly. And as if feeling eyes on them, Tommy turned first and the others followed in suit. Tommy waved you two over.

Debby practically skipped over, and you were much slower. Debby plopped right beside Maria, trying to get as close to Joel as he could. You sat beside Debby, careful to not evade any space.

"Hi Joel!" Debby greeted, too cheery for something casually quiet.

Joel only nodded in response, mouth full of food. His kid only glanced at Debby before back at her food.

"You settling in okay?" Maria asked, leaning forward around Debby.

You nodded, trying your best to not scarf down your food and match the pace of the others.

"You think this job is okay for you? Do you need anything?" Tommy asked, putting his spoon down to show full attentiveness.

"Umm," You swallowed your food. "Maybe a library and some blankets? And maybe a way to let the dogs go outside by themselves?" You were unsure if you were to grab anything extra for the dogs, or if you could modify that part of the barn.

Tommy nodded, "I can show you the library after this, and where we keep our extra clothes and blankets."

"Thank you," You almost started eating before Maria asked you a question.

"You fixing up that outside coral?" Maria asked.

You nodded, "Planning on it, so they don't make such a mess of inside."

"By yourself?" Maria asked again.

"Planning on it," You sense Maria's hesitation. "I was wondering where to get some wood and maybe some chicken wire, and maybe something to smooth the wood out so no one gets any splinters."

"Chicken wire?" Tommy asked, confused.

"So the dogs don't slip out under the fence," You pointed out.

Tommy nodded, "Well, uh my brother here is pretty well-versed in woodwork."

You looked at Joel, who sat across from Tommy. He looked back.

"Joel Miller," Joel reached a hand across the table to shake yours.

"Y/n," You told him, accepting his hand.

"Ellie," Joel's kid offered her hand once you pulled away from Joel. "You'll get the hang of eating slow eventually. I was like that too."

You nodded, settling back down into your chair.

Lunch went a lot slower than you were used to. But later than sooner, you were off to the library. Tommy led the way, informing you that you were welcome to take books home if needed, but to bring them back when you were done.

You nodded along to the information. And when Tommy left to go help Maria with something, you started wandering. You were looking for books on dog behavior and diet, hoping to find good ways to train the dogs under your care.

In just under two hours you found what you needed. You big goodbye to the library caretaker and was on your way back to the barn. You checked up on the dogs, cleaned up any mess they made, and got to reading. You took note of anything you deemed useful as you read.

A knock disrupted you. It was Tommy again. He brought an arm-full of old blankets. You met him at the doorway, thanking him. The man nodded and said if you needed anything that he'll be around. You thanked him again and decided that you'd wait to give the dogs their blankets until they were ready and trained to go outside.

After reading a few more pages, you fixed up some more things around the kennels and cleaned up the place a little more.

The sun went down and the town lights came on. Work slowed the darker it got in the barn. Soon enough, you bid the dogs goodnight and made your way home. You weren't too hungry so you skipped dinner and read until you couldn't anymore.

The next morning, you woke again before the sun. You peeked outside and saw that maybe only one or two people were awake. You got ready slowly, giving the town time to wake up before you officially started your day.

You shucked a big, thick jacket on and headed to the barn. The dogs greeted you with barks and wagging tails. For each kennel you cleaned, you gave the resident dog some love. You fed them and refreshed their water. Your stomach growled and you headed out to get your own breakfast.

The Miller Family was already there and settled, as was Debby. Debby seemed to be talking a very tired-looking Joel Miller's ears off about something. You see Ellie excuse herself from the table and make her way to join you in the line. She grabs a plate and comes up beside you.

“You smell like the barn,” Are the first words Ellie speaks to you. “Do you work with the horses?”

“No,” You answer as your grab some breakfast. “I work in the kennels.”

“Kennels?” Ellie presses.

“There’s some kennels in a room off to the side in the barn,” You tell her, grabbing a drink and utensils. “I can show you sometime if you like.”

“That’d be.. cool,” Ellie gives a chill smile, her eyes sparkling in excitement.

You lead the way to the table and you two take up your usual spots. You start eating instantly, extra hungry from the skipped dinner last night.

“You smell like the barn,” Debby notes with her nose wrinkled in distaste.

You swallow your bite of breakfast, “Woke up early.”

“And the barn was the first place you went?” She asks.

“Well yeah..,” You look at her finally, feeling a little subconscious. “Where else would I go?”

Debby opens her mouth to speak, but closes it again. She decided to not add any more comments about you and continue on with her breakfast.

A small conversation picks up between Tommy and Joel. Something about patrols and work that needs to be done around the town. It’s almost like they plan their day around each other, as if they want to see each other as often as possible. Maria joins in too, noting sightings from patrols on the west side. Joel nods, muttering about going out sometime today or tomorrow.

“What about the fences for the dogs?” Ellie interrupts.

“Still on my list,” Joel answers Ellie and then looks at you. “When would you want to start on that?”

“Whenever works best for you,” You tell him.

“We can start after this, if you’d like,” Joel suggests.

You nod, “That works.”

Joel nods and you go back to your breakfast.

You’re starting to get used to the slow breakfasts, but not really. You’re antsy to get back to the dogs. But breakfast does go by. Joel goes to get some tools and wood, and you go to meet him at the barn. The dogs were antsy for your return, barking and jumping on their chainlink cages as you walk by. You give them love and refill their waters if needed.

Joel shows up not long after, with Ellie in tow. You help carry wood and tools back to where you want to start. You two adults get to work, and you tell Ellie to make herself comfortable inside the barn and that the dogs are friendly. You and Joel tear up the old wooden fence and replace with new, better wood. You both hammer down and sand, making sure the fence is stable and has a lack of splinters. You slowly make your way around this corner of the barn, completing the process of setting up the fence by midday. Putting up the chicken wire only takes another hour or two.

When finished, you ask Joel for another favor, if he doesn’t mind. What? To help make the doggy doors a little better, and make it so the dogs goes in and out as they please.

Joel agrees, leaves to grab some more supplies, and when he comes back he shows you how to install his idea so you can do some doors as well.

Joel takes the previous doggy door off, cuts around the doorway to make the shape a little better, installs a new frame around the door, attaches this rubber to the sides and bottom, and attaches this swinging rubbery door to the doorway. Joel explains that the rubber will act as a seal to keep the cold air out of the kennel, and the new door should flap back and forth a few times before catching on the rubber and sealing the inside from the outside again.

You nod as you take in his instructions and explanation. It’s only slightly confusing but hopefully with some hands on the instructions will become more clear.

Joel moves to the next door down, and you settle in at the one beside that. Joel shows you how to install at a slow pace, making sure to go step by step with you. He does this at the next doggy door, and a few more before weaning you off instruction and trusting you to do it by yourself. It’s not long before you make it to the other side, installing the other five doggy doors. You do the last two yourself, Joel keeping a watchful eye over your shoulder.

Once you’re done, it’s evening. The sun is just barely starting to set. A few of the dogs have begun to venture outside to check out the new fence, their new doors, and Joel. After a few hi’s to the dogs, you take Joel inside through a door for people located in the premises of the new fences. You help him collect and put away his tools, but you seem to get a little too confident with these newfound tools and the small saw slips in your grasp and cuts into your first two fingers. You yelp and hiss, instantly grabbing your two injured fingers in the palm of your injured hand.

“What? What?,” Joel’s instantly concerned, gently grabbing your shoulder to turn you. “What happened?”

He zeros in on your fingers grasped in your hands and gently cups your hands in his.

“It-It’s fine, Joel. Really,” You tell him. “I guess I just wasn’t holding the saw tight enough and it slipped.”

“Let me see it,” Joel demands softly.

“Joel, really,” You pull your hands away slightly. “It’s okay. I can fix it up myself.”

“Just let me see it,” Joel demands again.

You look at his face full of concern and give in, resting your hands in his grasp. You release your fingers from your grasp and let them fall victim to Joel’s eyes. The man gently straightens your fingers with his and look at the cuts on your fingerpads, titling your hand from side to side.

Joel hums, “Come back to my place. I got the stuff to fix you up.”

“I can just do it at my house,” You try to reason with the taller man, who make your hands look like half the size they really are in his.

“Do you have rubbing alcohol?” He asks and you shake your head. “Bandages?” Another head shake from you. “Well, I’ve got those at my place, so just come back with Ellie and I and I’ll get you fixed up before dinner.”

“But-“ You start.

“It’s better than you running around with bleeding fingers trying to get the supplies yourself,” Joel tells you, giving you an intense gaze.

You give in, “Fine.”

Joel nods, shucking the tool bag onto his shoulders and calling Ellie in from outside, as she joined you and stayed out to play with the dogs. He finally let you have your hands back when he led the way out the barn and to his house.

“What’s he so tense about?” Ellie asks, walking beside you.

“I cut myself on the saw,” You show her.

“Oh, well it’s not that bad,” Ellie waved Joel’s tenseness off. “He shouldn’t be that worried. Joel’s had so much worse!”

You don’t have too much time to look around Joel and Ellie’s house before Joel is ushering you off to the kitchen and asking Ellie to put the tool bag away. She does, marching off down the halls.

Joel stands you both over the sink, running the water until it’s decently warm. He helps wash your fingers off until the cuts are visible. They’re not too bad, but too deep to be left alone. Joel reaches up into a cabinet beside the sink and grabs some rubbing alcohol and some bandaids. You hiss when he pours the rubbing alcohol over the cuts, the stinging causing you to pull away on instinct. Joel gives you a minute before putting your fingers back under the water to wash away any more debris and any remaining alcohol. He turns the sink off and dabs the areas dry with a thin rag. Joel puts the bandaids on himself, he doesn’t give you a choice to try and put them on yourself. Once satisfied with his work, Joel finally lets you have your hand to yourself.

“Keep the bandaids on for a few days,” He tells you. “Either you can let them fall off or take them off when you’re ready. But if the cuts are still not healed when the bandaids come off, feel free to stop by and come grab some more.”

“Okay,” You nod, rubbing your good fingers against your injured ones, feeling the bumping texture of the bandaid. “Thank you.”

“Anytime,” Joel nods.

Joel looks at you for a moment. You watch as his eyes dart from here to there. But he gets to look for only a moment before the front door is thrusted open. In comes Debby.

“Joel!” She calls into the house, looking ahead. “Sorry for stopping in like this, but I figured it’s dinner time and you’d want to know! And we can like totally walk there together if you’re. . . . ready. .”

Debby trails off at the end of her sentence as she makes eye contact with the pair of you. She assesses the situation before speaking.

“Y/n? What are you going her?” Her tone is a nice balance between friendly and surprised, but her eyes scream confusion and threat.

“I got hurt working today and Joel fixed me up,” You tell her.

“Oh! Are you okay?” Debby slams the front door shut, rattling some little figurines on a nearby table.

She grabs your fingers a bit roughly, making you wince, and looks them over.

“He fixed you right up, didn’t he?” Debby voiced is pitched. She looks at Joel, “Didn’t you, Joel?” She almost speaks to him like a puppy that’s done something cute.

Joel nods, “I offered.” His voice is monotone and he turns to put away the medical stuff, and throw away the bandaid wrappings.

“Well, girl!” Debby turns to you. “Don’t be such a klutz next time, yeah?”

“Umm,” You hesitate. “Yeah.”

Debby is tense. Almost as if she’s taking you being in Joel’s house as a threat to her crush on the man.

Ellie comes stomping down the hallway. She’s easy to hear when the kitchen has gone quiet. She calls out to Joel.

“I’m hungry, man!” She expressed. “When are we going to eat?”

She turns the corner and her raised eyebrows fall when she see the additional person in the kitchen. Ellie huffs, looking at Joel with an irritated expression. Joel gives the hint of one back.

“We can head out now,” Joel says.

“Good!” Ellie marches on to the front door and outside. She clobbers down the steps, “I’m so hungry!!”

You three adults trail after her. Joel turns on his porch light and shuts the front door. Joel takes big steps to catch up to his advancing daughter, urging her to slow down a bit.

Debby is uncharacteristically tense at dinner. Her chatter doesn't stop, but the edge to her tone gives her away. The table either doesn't notice or doesn't care. It's whatever to you, honestly. You're too focused on eating dinner, and figuring out how to hold a fork with three fingers.

"What happened there?" Tommy asks you during a break in Debby's dinner talk.

"Work accident," You tell Tommy after swallowing a bite of tonight's dinner. "One of the small saws slipped through my hand when I was helping Joel put tools away."

"It's hard to work in the cold," Tommy nods. "Your hands go numb and stuff. You got gloves for next time?"

You shake your head no.

"I can go by and get you some," Maria offers. "And some antibiotics, just in case."

"Oh thanks!" You thank Maria.

"I can drop them off at the barn if that works," Maria says.

"That works," You tell her. "Thank you."

"Anytime."

You find the gloves the next morning, sitting atop a stool that you use sometimes. You pull them on and get to work that day, training the dogs to go outside for potty instead of inside. You check up on your pregnant dog, which you've named "Mama." She doing good and growing steadily day by day. The only odd thing in the bunch is a dog at the end, that you've named "Mick" has got a case of the sniffles. You'll have to keep an eye on him.

After your little accident, the days go on. You have meals with the Miller family, which has lead to you and Ellie growing closer. She stops by the barn every once in a while, mostly to come play with the dogs and horses though. Debby and you grow closer as well, once you move past the tenseness she feels when she thinks you and Joel stand a little too close for her comfort. It's whatever to you, you're not entirely bothered by it. Maria and the Miller boys stop by too, to check in and stuff (Joel's excuse). Joel stops by a bit more than the couple though, just to see how the wood work is hanging, he says.

Mick, the skinny black mutt at the end of the row of kennels on the left, seems to get worse as the days go on. His sniffles and runny nose evolve into coughs, weakness, and a lack of eating. You get worried and run him to Jackson's local vet. The doctor says he's run into some type of winter cold. To her, it seems he's coming down from the worst of it. The vet gives you a small bag of this white powdery stuff and tells you to mix it in with his food and water. You follow orders, and give Mick another blanket.

There's one day, after dinner while you were checking on the dogs before you went home, that Mick doesn't get up. He hasn't really eaten since breakfast. You pet him, feeling his ears and they're burning hot. You worry and pace for a small bit, wondering what to do. You decide the best thing for Mick, and yourself, is to stay with him that night. You’re lucky that you wore some thicker clothes today, it’s supposed to be a cold one tonight. Despite Mick’s heat, he’s shivering. You pile up some blankets in the kennel and get settled for the night. All the lights in the barn are off, the only light now is coming from the heat lamps that hang low from the ceiling. You curl you and Mick into a corner. You sit up so Mick can lay on your lap. It’s uncomfortable but you fall asleep anyway.

You’re roused awake by someone calling your name. You think you’re dreaming until your name is called again. You blink open your eyes and see a figure crouched in front of you, resting a hand on your leg.

It’s Joel.

There concern written on his face, and perhaps a little bit of confusion.

“What are you doing here?” Joel asks in a hushed voice.

“Mick’s sick,” You voice is raspy with sleep and lack of water.

You palm Mick’s head, feeling around his fur. His heated ears have cooled considerably. Maybe he’s getting better.

Joel huffs, you’re not sure what for.

“What are you doing here?” You asks back, a little more awake now.

“Well your porch light wasn’t on and- and Ellie said you hadn’t come home yet,” Joel explains.

“What time is it?” You asks again. There’s not windows here to look out of to guesstimate the time.

“Awhile after midnight,” Joel answers. “The town’s already gone to sleep.”

“And why didn’t you,” You press.

Joel hesitates, “I. . . I couldn’t sleep.”

You hum in response.

“You mind if I stay with you?” Joel asks.

“Sure,” You nod.

Joel situations himself beside you, your shoulders are barely pressed against each other.

“It’s. . supposed to be cold tonight,” Joel notes.

“You want a blanket?” You ask, thinking that he’s implying that he’s cold.

“Sure,” Joel says.

He takes the one you hand him and situates it on top of himself.

Due to your tiredness, you fall back asleep rather quickly, enveloped in the warmth of the dog on your lap and the man on your side. Unbeknownst to you, when you do fall into a good sleep, your head falls to rest on Joel’s broad shoulder.

Joel’s a little tense at first, but when the heat from you and the heat lamp above soak into his clothes, he’s dozing right off to sleep.

The next morning, you wake by yourself. You're so so warm, but your body hurts so so bad. You rub the possibly bluriness from your eyes before opening them. The room is lit from the plastic doggy door. It's not too bright out, so either the sun isn't up all the way or it's super cloudy outside. As you wake up more, you realize the position your in.

Somehow, someway, you've made your way under Joel's arm and you're resting your head on his upper chest. Mick has moved as well, from your lap to Joel's. He looks comfy, passed out.

You reach over and pet Mick's head, massaging his ears. They've cooled back down to a regular temperature. Maybe all Mick needed was some company for a night. You sigh and settle back down. You close your eyes for a moment before you hear footsteps and someone clearing their throat. You open your eyes again and see Ellie standing in front of the kennel.

"So this is where Joel ran off to in the middle of the night?" Ellie whispered, an amused expression on her face.

"I thought you knew where Joel was," You asked, only a little confused.

"Oh no," Ellie shakes her head. "He ran off in the middle of the night. Something about going to the barn to check on something. I guess you were that something."

"I guess," You cast a glimpse at Joel. Since when did he become so worrisome, especially towards you. "What time is it?"

"Breakfast time," Ellie answered, "Which is why I stopped by here."

Ellie turned her attention towards Joel and raised her voice from a whisper, "Joel! Joel! It's like way past your morning alarm!"

Joel only groans in response. He stretches, raising his arms above his head. When he puts his arms back down, Joel traps you back against his oh so warm body. But he jumps when he feels you under him.

"Sorry. . 'bout that," Joel apolgizes, putting his arms down in front of him.

"It's alright," You tell him.

"So awkward," Ellie mumbles, kicking the dirt floor of the barn.

Joel moves to get up, but a furry body prevents him from doing so.

Mick shuffles and wakes from his slumber. Without picking up his head, he looks back at the two of you and wags his tail. He already looks so much better.

"You feeling better, boy?" You ask him, petting his head.

His sniffs your hand, and licks it.

"'cuse me, kid," Joel pats Mick on the head and shifts his legs little by little until Mick lifts his head. He gets up slowly, groaning as he uses his knees as leverage to get up from the dirt floor.

You follow suit, groaning as well. You'll be regretting sleeping in a dirt floor today. You do your best to stretch out your condensed muscles.

Joel limps and wobbles a little bit as he makes his way out of the kennel and to Ellie.

"That's what you get for sleeping on a dirt floor, man," Ellie shoves Joel lightly.

While the two bicker, you check up on Mick. He's sitting up now, wagging his tail while doing his best to give you a tired little smile. He looks so much better now! Especially with the lack of sniffling and coughing.

After a few minutes of petting Mick, you turn towards the bickering father and daughter, "You don't mind if I feed the dogs real quick before breakfast, do you?"

"Not at all," Joel says.

"Can I help?" Ellie asks excitedly.

"Sure!" You say.

You tell her to gather the bowls from the kennels on the right while you gather the bowls from the kennels on the left. You fill the bowls and split the ten bowls between you two again to deliver them to the dogs. After feeding, you also refill their water bowls. Soon enough, the dogs are chowing down on their food and you three head off to the mess hall.

It's cold out, colder than when you arrived at Jackson. It seems the worst of winter is making it's way up and into the mountains. You're glad to get into the warm mess hall as soon as possible.

Once you three get settled and start eating and conversating with the rest of your group, a shadow at the corner of your eye causes you to turn to your right.

A young woman stands to your right, looking a little nervous as she twiddles her fingers.

"You work at the kennels, right?" She asks.

"I do," You nod. "What can I do for you?"

"Well, I was just wondering if any dogs are available for adoption," The woman explains. "I just feel bad 'cause it's getting colder out now."

"I'd say the dogs are ready for adoption," You tell her. "You can come by the barn after breakfast to come check the dogs out."

"Oh thank you!" She smiles. "I'll see you after breakfast!!"

The young woman practically skips back to her table, excitedly telling her group of friends her plans for the afternoon.

Breakfast goes by unexcitedly. The only relatively interesting news that is that Joel will be going out on patrol today, but that's about it.

The Millers, Debby, and you go your separate ways after dinner. You trot in the direction of the barn, meeting the lady from the beginning of breakfast there. She shows up soon after you, introducing herself as Mary. Mary brings along a friend as well, a woman around her age named Saturn.

You introduce the duo to the resident dogs, telling them about their personalities and any mishaps they've had while at the kennel.

Mary takes a shibu and Saturn takes a chow. As a form of payment, they exchange some homemade stuff that they made in their free time, like soaps and a wood carved duck. You give the ladies their dogs' favorite blankets and bid them goodbye.

As soon as you're doing cleaning up the empty kennels, a few more people stop by that are interesting in adopting some dogs as well. Soon enough, you have a little gathering of people in the room. By the afternoon, all dogs except Mama, your resident pregnant german shepherd. Someone even adopted Mick, even though he was recently sick. You told Mick's owner what the vet told you about his bag of medicine. The owner reassured you that Mick was in good hands.

It was quiet in the room now. You cleaned up slowly, folding blankets and stacking food and water bowls. You sighed, resting on the counter that sat against the right wall and looked at Mama.

"Well, looks like it me and you now, girl," You told her.

She wagged her tail in response.

You paused for a few moments, thinking. You figured that bringing Mama to your house, instead of leaving her here, wouldn't be so bad.

"You wanna come home with me?" You asked Mama, opening her kennel door.

In response, she got up and hobbled her way over to you.

You figured that was a yes, and you gathered up her blankets and food bowls. You led the way through the barn, letting Mama either stop for a sniff or pause for a break. She was about as big as a hippo now, and no doubt was she about to pop any day now.

You two slowly made your way back to your house, and you get Mama settled in the downstairs bedroom with all her blankets. For now, you place her food and water bowl in the kitchen.

It's afternoon by the time you've settled you and Mama at home. You're not sure what to do now that you don't have ten dogs to take care of. Maybe you'd eat lunch or something. It's a bit late for lunch, but that means you missed the lunch rush. You pat Mama on the head and tell her you’re off for lunch. She's rested up on the couch and she makes no sign to move from her spot on the couch as you open the front door.

You walk by the barn on your way to the mess hall and see Ellie making her way from the barn. She looks a little dejected before she see you, and then she lights right back up. The girl trots right over to you, bumping into your shoulder when she’s close enough.

“Whatcha up to, kid?” You ask.

"Well, Joel's on patrol and the kids here and doing something totally lame so.. I was looking for you and saw all the dogs were gone," Ellie kicked some dirt at the end of her explanation, hiding her dejection.

"Oh sorry kid," you apologized. "Yeah, most the dogs got adopted out today. The only dog that didn't was Mama, the pregnant one."

"Where is she?" Ellie asked. "She's not in the barn or outside."

"I actually brought her home," You told Ellie. "I didn't think it was fair to leave her there herself, especially since she's already so close to having her puppies."

"Oh is she really?" Ellie looked up at you, surprised.

"I know!" You acknowledge her surprise. "It doesn't feel like that much time has passed but I guess it has."

Ellie nodded.

"Well.. I am going to the mess hall to get some lunch if you'd like to join," You offered.

"Sure!" Ellie took your offer and you two were off to the mess hall.

Since you two were taking a late lunch, there were very few people in the mess hall. Only a few of the kitchen staff and a few people eating late lunch were seen in the mess hall.

You and Ellie decided to sit at your regular table but across from each other. It was nice to have someone sit across from you for once, especially someone so pleasant to talk to. Ellie was so pleasant to talk to that you two accidentally had stayed until evening, when the early eaters started trickling in. In a decision to make room for the early dinner crowd, you and Ellie had decided to go and walk around town. There was a slight chill to the air, but nothing too bad. The lack of a breeze made the early evening air easier to handle.

Eventually, you two had made your way back to your house. Ellie had beelined for Mama, who hadn't moved from her spot on the couch. You gotten the three of you settled in your living room with blankets and warm drinks. You and Ellie got to know each other more and you learned she wasn't originally from Jackson like you thought, but from the east coast. In return, you told her where you came from. You two ended up bonding over the struggles of the world outside of Jackson.

Around mid-conversation, a frantic knocking was heard from your front door. You paused and turned, glancing over at Ellie who looked as confused as you did. You got up and opened your front door caustiously.

A sobbing and hyperventilating Debby. She practically burst through your partially opened front door and into your arms. You barely caught her as you stumbled back. She was mumbling incoherently through her sobs and hiccups.

"What?" You asked, trying to pry the sobbing woman from your arms.

"Joel's hurt!!" Debby yelled through her tears.

Panic and alarm hit you. You looked and Ellie to see the same emotions mirrored onto her face. She shucked on her jacket and was out the door before you could get Debby up onto her feet. You shoved Debby out and mumbled a "be back" to Mama before shutting your front door and attempting to catch up to a sprinting Ellie.

Ellie had burst through Jackson's infirmary before you got there, calling out for her dad. You and Debby caught up to her. You stood behind Ellie, looking for Joel while Debby clung to your jacket.

A sob tore from Debby's throat and she lunged forward, leaving you and Ellie behind.

Predicting the distraught woman's path, you spotted Joel settled in a back corner. There was blood on his face and his right eye was squinty. His clothes and hair were disheveled, splattered with blood. Currently, his hands were being cleaned up and bandaged. Whoever he got in a fight with, neither of the opponents came out pretty.

You nudged Ellie and led her quickly and quietly from the infirmary to her dad. Once there, Debby was all over him. Sobbing and pawing at the injured man. Joel winced at her ministration, looking tired and irritated.

"Ma'am. Ma'am," One of the nurses called attention to Debby. "You're getting in the way of his treatment. Please back away."

The nurse's words had no affect, and Debby ended up having to be pulled away from Joel and calmed down on another cot nearby.

You decided to let Debby have some time to herself and stay here with Ellie in case she needed any support.

Ellie stood there nervously, not wanting to get in the way of the nurses but also wanted to be next to Joel.

"He'll be okay," Ellie mumbled to herself. "He's been through so much worse."

You pat Ellie on her shoulder, comforting her the best you could in the situation.

At the mumbling, Joel looked up and made eye contact with Ellie. He adjusted on the cot and pat the spot beside him. Ellie sat down beside Joel, practically pressed up against him.

"What happened?" Ellie asked.

“Just some raiders that ambushed us over by the ridge,” Joel explained.

He winced when the nurse dabbed at the cut above Joel’s right eye, as she had finished tending to his hands.

You glanced down at his hands. They were relaxed at the moment. There were some cuts and splotches of bruises littered across the peak of Joel’s knuckles. Joel’s left hand was bandaged from the knuckles and down around his wrist. He must’ve gotten really hurt on that hand.

“Well, you fucked them up pretty good, right?” Ellie asked, her tone indicating that she was trying to lighten the mood a little.

“ ‘course,” Joel chuckled, patting Ellie on the knee.

Two bodies joined you on one side. You looked over to see Maria and Tommy. They both looked over at Debby before turning their attention to Joel.

“What’s up with her?” Tommy asked you, confusion on his face.

“No idea,” You shrugged.

You noticed a black eye forming under Tommy’s left, mirroring Joel’s squinty right eye.

“You on patrol too?” You asked.

“Yeah,” Tommy nodded, sticking his hands in his pockets. “Joel seemed to have gotten the worst of it compared to me.”

You nodded.

“He’s tough though,” Maria noted, switching her attention from Joel to you. “I heard you had a busy day at the kennels. How many dogs got adopted?”

“All but one,” You answered.

“Oh really?” Tommy looked surprised. “I figured they all would’ve gone.”

“The only one that didn’t go was the pregnant one,” You told him. “But I brought her home cause it didn’t feel fair to leave her up there all by herself.”

“She didn’t give birth yet?” Maria asked.

“Nope,” You said. “Any day now though.”

Maria nodded.

The nurse stood from her stool and worked on gathering her medical supplies, “All fixed up, Miller. Take it easy for a few days.”

“I’ll try,” Joel responded.

He groaned as he got up. The man massaged the back of his neck with a hand, squinting in discomfort. Joel eyed the three of you, no readable emotion in his eyes.

“I need a drink,” Joel groaned.

“I bet you do,” Tommy chuckled.

“You wanna join?” The older Miller brother switched his attention to you.

“Awe what?!” Ellie exclaimed. “Then who am I gonna hang out with?”

“Go hang out with that Dina girl,” Joel reasoned. “You seem to like her a lot.”

Ellie scoffed, her cheeks turning just the slightest of pinks, “I guess..”

“I’ll be okay, kid,” Joel told his kid.

“Plus, it’s about time we get this hermit out her shell,” Tommy joked, bumping your shoulder with his fist.

You rolled your eyes playfully, “Those dogs loved me.”

“ ‘course,” Tommy shrugged.

The younger Miller lead the way out of the infirmary and into the cold winter air.

The sun was just a few feet above the horizon line now, painting the sky in oranges and pinks. A few people were out and about, but due to the cold weather slowly making its way over the mountains there weren’t many.

Once you’d reached the bar, called Tipsy Bison, Joel told Ellie to scamper off (in his grumpy, loving way) before leading the five of you into the bar. Because of course once Debby had seen Joel up and walking, she had attached herself to his hip and snuggled up to him all the way to the bar. You’d decided to hang back with Tommy and Maria to avoid awkwardness.

Being quite early at the bar had its quirks apparently. You’d all gotten chairs at the bar-top right next to each other. In a way to for you not to feel left out, you sat between the Miller brothers. You talked primarily with Tommy and Maria, as Joel seemed only focused on drinking at the moment.

As the sun set and more people trickled in, the five of you moved to a table near the outer circle and away from the crowd. With the table being circular, there was a bit more of an even option to talk to everyone. Most talk was about the town’s going ons and how the patrol went. You chipped in a couple times, but not too much. You’d spent these past few months in the barn and the mess hall, so you had no interesting news to share with the group.

Slowly, music had started from a jukebox in the corner of the bar and as people started dancing, Tommy and Maria had excused themselves and disappeared into the crowd. This left you with Debby and Joel, which wouldn’t have been awkward if it weren’t for Debby’s one-sided flirting towards a very tired-looking Joel.

You excused yourself and headed off towards the bar to get another drink.

It was louder over by the bartop compared to your little corner near the back of the barn. Thankfully, you ordered your drink without much hassle. You waited patiently, standing with your forearms resting on the counter and tapping your fingers against the wood along with the music. You felt a body join you on your left, but thought nothing of it until they started talking.

“You looking for someone to dance with?”

A tall blond man stood on your left, leaning against the counter with one arm. He already held a drink in his hand. His blue eyes looked you up and down, only briefly making eye contact.

“No,” You observed him briefly, before looking ahead at the bar again.

“Awe.. Why not?” The man sighed, setting a hand on your upper arm. “You got something better to do?”

You only looked at the blond man. After a few heartbeats went by, you tried to pull your arm away from the unknown man but to no avail. This man kept a rather tight grip on your upper arm.

“Well?” The man asks.

“Can you let me go please?” You try to pull your arm away with a bit more force this time.

“Why?” The blond man only tightened his grip. “I’m not hurting you, am I?”

Before you could respond, you could feel an overbearing presence over your shoulder. You didn’t have a chance to look at the person before they spoke.

“Is there a problem here?” Joel spoke from behind you.

When the blond man made eye contact with Joel, he let go of your arm so fast that you almost thought something burned him. His previously smirky expression developed into one of panic and fear. The man scooted back from you a bit.

“No-nothing for you to worry about, Joel,” The man seemed to have a bit of confidence still in him as he tried to tell Joel off.

“Go scamper off, kid,” Joel brushed the comment aside. “Go bother someone who wants to be bothered.”

The blond man huffed and left your side, shoulder-checking Joel before stalking off into the crowd. You watched the man walk off before Joel joined you at the bar top counter.

“You alright?” He asked, ordering his own drink when a bartender came by.

“Yeah,” You nodded. “I’m more weirded out than anything.”

Joel nodded. He set a soft hand on your upper arm, patting it once or twice while you waited for your drinks.

After getting your drinks, you and Joel went back to your table.

Debby had left and you couldn’t see her anywhere in the crowd. You assumed she went off into the crowd after Joel went to get another drink for himself. You weren’t worried too much. Your friend has lived in Jackson longer than you, so you trusted that she knew her way around town.

“So,” Joel took a sip of his drink. “Got anything going on for the rest of the night?”

“Umm.. Probably just gonna go home, check on Mama, and go to bed,” You told him. “Not the most excited.”

“You mind if I. . joined you? If that’s not a problem,” Joel took another sip from his drink, as if hiding behind the glass.

"Not at all," You smiled.

Joel's sudden shyness was unlike him, as was the pink tint to his cheeks. Why? Was it hot in here? You didn't think so. You shrugged his reaction off, not thinking anything about it.

After sipping down your drink, you and Joel left Tipsy Bison and headed off to your house. It was dark out now, and much colder than today. Not many people were on the streets either, not unusual for a cold winter night in Jackson. After your walk through town, you came up onto your porch. You noticed a medium-sized black lump on your porch. You didn't turn your porch on before you left in the late afternoon, so it was hard to tell what was on your porch.

As you came closer, the black lump lifted up it's head. It was a dog. The dog wagged it's tail as you came closer. Joel hung back a bit as you stepped up onto your porch. In the full moon light, you could see the black dog was Mick! He must've ran away from home and found your house!

"It's just Mick," You turned and told Joel. "He must've gotten out from his owner's house earlier."

"Ah," Joel joined you up on the porch and gave the black dog a few pats on the head. "Okay."

You opened your front door and welcomed Joel and Mick into your house. You told Joel to make himself comfortable.

As you hung up your jacket onto the hooks on the wall by your door, you noticed the lack of Mama's greeting as you came inside. You told Joel you'll be right back, you're just going to check up on your dog. You made your way into the downstairs bedroom and was greeted by small yaps and the thump of a wagging tail. You turned the light on and saw Mama laying in a nest of blankets with three very tiny bodies nestled against her belly.

"Oh!" You exclaimed.

You joined Mama on the floor, checking the new puppies. They weren't wet and all were breathing fine. You concluded that Mama must have given birth sometime early into your night out. You gave your dog a couple pats on the head and moved her water bowl closer to her so she could take a drink.

The click-clack of claws and the thumping of boots made you turn around.

Joel and Mick stood in the doorway. Upon the sight of Mama, Mick came in and gave Mama a couple licks on the head before settling down beside her. Joel still stood there, observing the situation.

"You alright in here?" He asked. "Thought I heard you say something?"

"I was just surprised that Mama gave birth already," You told Joel, settling down into a more comfortable sitting position on the floor. "Would you like to come see?"

"Sure," Joel was quick to come settle down beside you, letting Mama sniff his hand before giving her some well-deserved pets on the head.

You watched him interact with the dogs, surprised to see Joel relax so quickly in the presence of animals. It was almost like you weren't in the room with him anymore. Almost.

Joel sat up a bit, looking at you now, "So how are those fingers?"

You brought your hand up to look at your injured fingers, "They're not too bad. Still a little tender." You looked up at Joel. "How's your face?"

"Sore," Joel responded, smiling a bit.

"Too bad I couldn't be the one to fix you up," You sighed a little. "To repay the favor."

"Next time," Joel said.

"Next time?" You questioned, surprised. "I hope next time is just a little scratch and not a spilt eyebrow."

Joel only laughed at you.

You two spent the rest of the night sitting in the room with the dogs and getting to know each other a little more. Joel was a complicated, many-layered man who seemed to have very few soft spots. You were happy to be friends with Joel, but something deep down was tempting to see if you could be more.

[always1star]

valentines day with jjk men

Gojo who goes all out: taking the day off, spending thousands of dollars, making sure the day is absolutely perfect for his darling. He takes Valentine’s day very seriously. He wakes you up with your favorite breakfast in bed, one that he spent way too long making in the very early hours in the morning. He finishes off breakfast by gifting you a considerably large bouquet of red roses and a teddy bear the size of an actual bear. He beckons you to eat and get ready so you two can spend the rest of your day together. You go shopping (and come home with armfuls of designer shopping bags), go to a restaurant (that costs basically your entire paycheck for the appetizer alone), and drive around the city in one of his all-too-nice cars. You both fall asleep the second you come home, exhausted from all the love shared throughout the day. 

Geto who likes to treat Valentine’s day as if it were any other date. Don’t get me wrong though, because every date with him is special and unforgettable. He picks you up from your workplace with an assortment of purple, pink, white, and red flowers. He plants a kiss on your lips as you get into his car, and the two of you head to the restaurant that you seem to always come back to. Dinner is eaten, conversations are spoken, and the two of you head back home to watch a movie. Whether it be The Notebook or The Conjuring, movies are always enjoyable with him. The two of you bundle up under one blanket on the couch and share a couple snacks, very much enjoying your Valentine’s this year.

Nanami who prefers to do Valentine’s at home. Although going out and spoiling you is nice too, he would much rather stay at home with you. A mundane day is his favorite, considering his incredibly demanding life. So, for Valentine’s day, he skips out on whatever overtime he may be forced into, and comes home to you with some white tulips. You two make and have a candlelit dinner, bake a cake, watch a shitty romcom, have a warm bath while talking about your days, and sleep entangled with each other. It’s nothing special, but it’s something the both of you couldn’t keep yourselves from looking forward to. 

Toji who truly is trying his best. It almost makes you hysterical, seeing him be so stupified by a holiday for love, but you know he just wants to try for you. He comes home with totally irrelevant gifts: lilies (which is normal), a whisk, red towels, and play-doh. You’re dying laughing, clenching onto your core and holding onto the counter for support as you fall over from laughing. He’s just utterly mortified. So, in an attempt to make it up, Toji invites you out to dinner. Toji loves to see you all dressed up, so this is great for him too. He treats you to dinner, but the wait for a table during Valentine’s is absurdly long at every restaurant. Toji ends up taking you to get some random ramen place he knows, and after treating you to ice cream. The two of you come home and fall asleep. Some people may not have considered your day favorable, but you think it’s absolutely perfect and wouldn’t trade it for anything else. 

Sukuna who doesnt give a single flying fuck about Valentine’s day. But, he is willing to give it a chance this time around, just for you. He grumbles as he walks through the store staring at all the people deciding what to buy for their loved ones. He eventually picked up a box of chocolates, a bouquet of pink carnations, and a white stuffed bear because those just happened to be the things that were popular amongst other shoppers. He looks online for date ideas, and figures tickets to a museum wouldn’t be so bad. He surprises you with the gifts when you come home, and you are so excited. He thinks that maybe this whole “Valentine’s” ordeal isn’t so bad after all. He’s trying, and maybe soon he will see improvement, and that’s wonderful to you. 

lowkey a filler post bc my real valentines special is not done... enjoy this instead. happy valentines, everyone!

[nickistuffs]

Design Choices

Hi, I’m back with some inspiration! As a designer in product development, this photo really resonates with me.

Pairing: Harry x Designer Reader (curvy or plus size—whatever you feel works best! This is just my preference 😌)

Summary: Harry invites you to a Pleasing meeting.

Word Count: 874

Warnings: None. Just fluff 💗

Please enjoy! I’m just doing this for fun.

✨masterlist✨ read the rest of Harry x Designer Reader there ...

Today, Harry had a meeting for his cosmetics brand, Pleasing. While getting ready, he saw his girlfriend sitting at her desk, working on designs and 3D renders for various brands vying for her talent.

He’d always wanted to add Y/N to his team of designers or do a small collaboration. However, being the shy and offline person she is, Y/N mostly kept her work to her portfolio and artworks online, with little to no social media presence. She’d told him before that she didn’t want to be seen as the girl who got work because of her boyfriend—something Harry found ridiculous since he would’ve gladly welcomed her on the team if she’d asked.

After slipping on his socks, he tiptoed to her workspace, wrapped his arms around her shoulders, and placed soft kisses on her head. Briefly, he watched her work on what appeared to be a floor plan for a coffee shop. An idea crossed his mind, one he hoped she’d be open to.

“Hey, baby. Are you busy today?”

“Uhmm, not really. I’m just finishing my files, and my meeting got moved to tomorrow. Why?” she replied while continuing to type up details and notes for her contractors.

“Well, if you’re done with that, would you like to join me in a meeting today?”

She quickly saved her file and closed her laptop, looking at Harry with curiosity.

“For… your next album?”

“No, silly! For Pleasing. We’re finalizing some packaging boxes and stickers for a new nail polish release this New Year.”

“Oh! Right, sorry. My mind’s been all over the place.”

“No worries, love. So, do you want to come?”

“Sure, but can you pack my stuff for me? I’ll just go change.”

“Go ahead. I’ll take care of it for you.”

Harry rummaged through her work bag, filled with her essentials: a pen case, notebooks, journals, sample swatches, three different types of measuring tools, and other knick-knacks she might need for meetings or site visits. Knowing her, inspiration—or a design mishap—could strike at any moment. He added her laptop and earphones to the bag just as she walked back into the room.

“Ready! Do you have my bag, babe?”

“Yup, everything’s secured. I’ll just put on my shoes, and we can go.” ...

As Harry drove them to Pleasing’s unofficial office, he broke the silence.

“Babe, thank you for coming with me today. I thought you’d say no and stay home.”

“Well, I know I’ve said I didn’t want to be part of the product development team, but I still want to support you. If going to this meeting means so much to you, I’ll gladly hop in when I’m free.”

At a red light, Harry grabbed her hand and kissed it gently. ...

When they arrived at the small office, Harry and Y/N were greeted warmly and offered coffee, pastries, and nuts. She placed her bag on the floor and settled onto the couch, her eyes immediately drawn to the sparkly, hot-pressed foils on the PR boxes inside a nearby cardboard box.

“You can touch them if you like,” said Harry’s head designer.

“Thank you. Harry, may I?”

“I know you’re dying to feel it, love. Don’t let me stop you.”

Harry smiled at her excitement as she examined the new products Pleasing had created. He silently observed her body language, sweating a little as he hoped nothing was out of place—knowing how detail-oriented she was.

“These are so nice. The feel is great. Do you have options where the box is fully foiled or mixed with matte finishes for texture variety?”

A sigh of relief escaped Harry’s lips as he saw her getting into her element.

“Yeah, we have all of that here,” the head designer replied. “Here are the inserts, the bottles, and other packaging we’ve printed, along with the initial samples, if you want to try them.”

They laid everything out on the table. Y/N immediately locked eyes with Harry.

“These are amazing! The supplier you got is really good. You have to tell me who they are!”

Harry chuckled at her enthusiasm.

“It’s a secret, love. I can’t reveal that to the competition. I might even ask the team to whip up an NDA before you leave.”

The three of them laughed at Harry’s joke, but soon the meeting shifted into a more serious tone. Work began in earnest, with Harry choosing his preferred designs, giving feedback, and discussing limitations and options with the team.

Meanwhile, Y/N started snapping photos of Harry looking serious, as well as top-down shots of the table and the stickers he was pointing to.

**“What do you think, love?” Harry asked.

“Sorry, I was distracted. Can you say that again, babe?”

“I asked if we should add another color to the collection, or if this is enough?”

“Well, is it in your budget? I thought you already finalized a color story. Adding another might confuse the supplier if it’s a last-minute change. I’d recommend saving it for your next release or an expansion of the range, maybe with a different collaborator.”

Harry nodded, impressed by her quick, thoughtful response. He felt a surge of pride, knowing he was in a relationship with someone as brilliant and passionate as she was. ... Thank you so much for reading! I have more in store and might write again soon. See you! 💗

[madameaug]

Office Hours

Pairing: Johnny Storm x Black Reader

A/N: A cute little one-two!! (also clap it up for my stem girlies out there, I see you <3)

Johnny Storm wasn't the type to linger behind after class to talk his professors. He definitely wasn't the type to go to office hours. He never really needed to go to them. Not because he was some secret genius- far from it- but because he had a knack for winging things well enough to scrape by. Motorsports was his thing; cars made sense to him, but when something didn't, Well, there were always more intelligent people around to help.

But this Intro to Engineering Problem-Solving class was kicking his ass. So here he was, walking to Dr. Montgomery's office. Dr. Montogomery was an award-winning researcher on environmental-friendly cars. His name alone rang praises in the Engineering department. Johnny just wishes he knew how he ran his classes before registration in the spring. It was only day three into the semester, and he fundamentally bombed a quiz, which, mind you, was on the very first day of class.

The office door with Dr. Montgomery's last name was slightly ajar. He could hear him talking to someone in the office, but he could not hear much. He just hoped no one who knew him was in there. There was no telling how long he would be in this office.

With a pathetic knock, Johnny peered his head into the office. He expected to see Dr. Montogmery sitting at his desk, waiting to pounce on whatever unsuspecting soul walked through the door. On the walls, he noticed the five framed degrees. One, the wall was a portrait of himself, shaking hands with none other than Howard Stark.

Instead, he was pleasantly met with your face. You sat comfortably at Montgomery's desk, flipping through a notebook. You were scribbling furiously in the notebook. Johnny thought your face was familiar, he was sure he saw you in the halls. Maybe a general education class a couple semesters back. But the NYU Engineering sweatshirt on your chest confirmed that for him.

You were an engineering major?

The next thing about you that Johnny noticed was the glittery chemical structure of glucose slipped into your slicked-back low puff. Sugar? Johnny must have been staring a little too long for your liking as you returned the same confused expression he gave you.

Yeah, he's definitely never seen you before. Holding onto one bookbag strap, Johnny asked where Dr. Montogmery was. The older professor startled Johnny with his voice as he slipped behind him.

"Good to see you, Storm." Carrying a stack of papers, he placed them on his desk.

"I don't want to interrupt if she's getting tutoring right now. I can come back later."

Getting up out of the chair, you walked to the leather sofa diagonal from the desk. Johnny took note of the multiple chemical bond pins on your bookbag.

"Ah, Mr. Storm, it is so nice of you to grace us with your presence."

The older man motioned for Johnny to sit directly in front of his desk. Slowly sitting in his seat, Johnny remained curious as to the reason why you were sitting in Montgomery's office for a reason not for tutoring.

"I would have expected you to run after the first quiz."

Johnny scoffed. “That’s a little harsh, don’t you think?”

Montgomery finally looked up, peering at him over his glasses. “You set one of my circuit boards on fire this morning.”

Johnny winced. “Okay, yeah, that’s fair.”

Curling your feet underneath your body, you laughed upon hearing the revelation. Johnny's attention wandered back over to you. You looked at Johnny like you knew him. Which made no sense, because Johnny definitely would've remembered a face like yours.

"And you are...?"

You tilted your head. "The person who helped design that circuit board."

His smirk faltered. "Oh."

"Oh," she mimicked.

Montgomery shook his head. “Storm, meet my daughter, YN. Chemical engineering major. Unlike you, she actually understands the material.”

Johnny barely registered the jab. His brain had short-circuited somewhere around daughter.

“Wait, you’re Montgomery’s kid?”

You leaned back in the chair, tapping the end of her pencil against her chin. “Why do you sound so surprised?”

Johnny gestured vaguely at her. “Because you—You don’t—”

YN raised an eyebrow.

“—look like him.”

Professor Montgomery sighed. “I’ll pretend that wasn’t an insult.”

You, on the other hand, looked thoroughly entertained. “You mean I don’t look like a sixty-year-old white man? Wow, shocking.”

Johnny huffed. “That’s not what I meant.”

“Uh-huh.”

He pointed at her. “You know what I meant.”

You just smirked, turning back to her notebook.

"Office hour appointments are only sixty-minutes. So please lets not waste my time with childlike bickering."

Right. Tutoring.

Despite the rocky start, office hours weren't completely terrible. Montgomery true to his personality, was thorough and blunt. Yet, he tied to break things down in a way that even Johnny could still grasp. Still the real distraction wasn't the equations- it was you.

You stayed the entire time, alternating between scribbling in the notebook and throwing in an unwanted answer when Johnny asked a dumb question.

“Wait, so if voltage increases—”

“The resistance decreases,” You finished without looking up.

Johnny scowled. “I was getting there.”

“Sure, you were.”

Montgomery sighed. “Storm, if you paid as much attention in class as you do arguing with my daughter, you might actually pass.”

Johnny leaned back, flashing a grin. “But where’s the fun in that?”

An hour has passed, and Montgomery called it a night, shuffling Johnny out of his office with a warning about not setting anything else on fire. Johnny hesitated for half a minute before leaning against the doorframe again, watching her. "So, chemical engineering, huh?"

You glanced up. "That's right."

"Wouldn't hve pegged you for the lab coat type."

"And I would have pegged you for the 'setting things on fire' type."

If only you knew.

You and Johnny walked away from the office. The campus was lively despite the incoming evening hours. Music could be heard in the distance. He wasn't exactly sure where he was walking with You, but his curiosity was getting the best of him.

"Look, technically, that fire wasn't my fault." You raised an eyebrow.

"Okay, mostly not my fault."

You laughed, your cheekbones peaking. Taking it as a win, Johnny asked you another question.

"What's a self-made genius like you stuck in an intro class. I'm surprised you aren't teaching some 5000-level course. Half turning on your heels, you stop and face Johnny.

"It's required for my program. If I pass the class, then I can apply for a preceptorship and get total funding for any research project I want. Unlike you, who chose a major to play with cars."

"I dont want to 'play' with cars. I want to master them."

You looked unconvinced. You looked off to the side, Johnny looking at your side profile. You were a natural beauty and had a face to be admired. The Engineering department was predominantly male, with a godawful ratio of 2:11 women to men. Johnny didn't want to come across as too fresh.

"You ever been in a race car?"

"Do go-karts count?"

"No."

"Well, damn Montgomery. You're seriously missing out." He waves a hand through his buzzcut. You scoffed with a playful eyeroll.

"Right, because trusting an adrenaline junkie frat boy with my life is so appealing."

"Haven't had a crash yet." Johnny leaned over to knock on the brick building you were standing beside.

"Is that true, though?" You looked at him knowingly.

Johnny groaned. "You're never letting that fire thing go, are you?"

"Not a chance." Your smirk was downright dangerous. That look in your eye was telling.

He exhaled, shaking his head. “And here I thought I was making a good impression.”

You tilted your head. “You did better than expected.”

Johnny grinned. “Oh, so you had expectations.”

YN shrugged, stepping past him. “Let’s just say your reputation precedes you.”

He watched as she strolled down the campus pavement, curls bouncing with each step.

Right before you turned the corner, you glanced back, eyes flickering over him one last time.

“See you next office hours, frat boy.”

And with that, you was gone.

Johnny ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply.

Yeah, he was definitely coming back next week.

[thezombieprostitute]

Tech Tuesday: Mike

Summary: A new intern is assigned to your department.

A/N: Mike is from Hellraiser: Hellworld. If you need an idea as to what his character is like, I highly recommend this gif set.

Warnings: Age gap (Reader is 10+years older than Mike). Power imbalance.

Previous

Tech Tuesday Masterlist

As soon as you're out of the meeting, you're looking for some aspirin. The monthly managers meeting was always a real pain in the ass. It's become a little less hostile since Lloyd must have found himself a new toy to play with, but he's still Lloyd. To his credit, he can be pretty damn creative at insulting people without getting in trouble with HR. But it's still over an hour with a bunch of people arguing over resources and timelines and other boring things. All you can do is take your notes, go to bat for your team, and chug your coffee.

On your way to your office, where you know you have some Excedrin, you detour through the break room and get yourself something sweet from the vending machines. You know you should watch your blood sugar or whatever, but meeting days are always rough and you deserve that boston cream snack pie with a side of coffee.

Finally at your desk you let yourself take some deep breaths before reaching for the Excedrin. A couple of pills, some coffee and follow it up with a bite of the calorie bomb, sugar dense, definitely-bad-for-you creamy treat. You let out a soft moan and relax into your chair.

Until a second later when there's a loud knock on your door followed by Mike walking in, "hey Boss Lady, you got a minute?"

You rush to swallow the bite in your mouth and chug some more coffee to help it down but wind up choking a bit in the process.

"Oh, shit! I'm so sorry!" Mike exclaims running behind your desk to start smacking your back, likely thinking there's something stuck in your throat. You try to wave him away and while he does stop hitting you, he stays nearby, his eyes wide with worry. He's shaking so much you'd laugh if you could catch your breath.

When you finally regain your composure, you let out a breath and gesture for Mike to sit. He does so hesitantly.

"You're sure you're okay?"

"I am," you nod with a smile. "You'd think, at my age, I'd be past making a fool of myself but, let's face it, there's no age limit on that." He smiles back at you. "Now, what is it you wanted to talk about?"

"Oh, right!" His eyes go wide and he grabs his notebook. You've noticed he's always carrying one ever since your talk about taking notes. "So, I've got some preliminary things figured out, some user design basics, but I was wondering if I could spend some time with Steve and Bucky in the IT department? They work on accessibility stuff and I'd like to incorporate some of those."

"What kind of features are you thinking?"

"Well, no one in the department's mentioned it, but I'd like to include some features for like, colorblindness. I'm hoping to learn a bit about adding things like that. Just in case someone is colorblind but maybe doesn't know it, or it's mild but still annoying?"

"Alright, I'll talk to Jonathan about getting you some time with them," you say as you write yourself a note. "I make no promises, of course."

"Of course," he smiles. You swear if you were just 10 years younger you'd be swooning over his boyish charm.

"Anything else?"

Mike looks over his notes, "um...I know there was something. No. Wrong page. Ah! There it is!" You fight the urge to chuckle as he rereads his notes. "Right, so there are some tables that seem to have different names depending on who you're talking to. And none of them seem to be the tables' actual names! What should I do?"

"How about you bring that up at the next meeting? Do a little demonstration showing everyone that these different names apply to the same table and we can see about a vote or a naming compromise for the interface."

Mike writes down everything you say and you give a genuine smile. Not a lot of interns would take advice so easily. That first meeting really must have melted his brain.

As you're making a note to yourself to add Mike to the next meeting agenda you notice he's looking uncomfortable.

"Are you okay, Mike?"

"I just...um...How do I put this?" he mumbles as he runs his hand through his hair. "My parents are going to be in town next week for, um, Parents' Weekend at the college. They, um, they'd like to meet you." Your eyebrows raise at that and he's quick to put up both of his hands, " you don't have to, of course! I'll absolutely understand if you'd rather not! They just...they want to see where I'm working."

"If you can give me more details on a day and time I'll see what I can do," you promise. "It's not every day we get an Intern's parents visiting, but I'm sure Jonathan would be happy to help make it happen."

"You really don't have to." Mike almost sounds disappointed.

"Would you like me to say it can't happen?" He hesitates at that. "Do you need me to be the bad guy for you?" His face drops but you swear you see his cheeks turn a little pink when you say that. "Look, family can be very complicated. You will receive no judgment from me if you'd rather your parents didn't know about your work place, okay?"

"Thank you," he murmurs.

"And I promise, no follow up questions on the family."

He relaxes at that. "Thank you so much, Boss!"

You give a soft chuckle instead of asking him not to call you that. It's clearly something he'll never listen to you about. And, to be honest, you don't mind it so much.

"So, if your family asks, you can tell them we simply don't do tours for family members. They can visit the building, but they're not allowed past the lobby."

His smile grows and he gets animated again. "Thank you, so very much!" His smile drops as he remembers something. "Oh! Also, I'm gonna need next week off from work for their visit."

You make a note, "shouldn't be a problem. I'll push your agenda item to the meeting in two weeks instead of next week's."

"Thanks, Boss! You're the best!"

He practically jumps out of his chair and runs out of your office leaving you smiling, shaking your head and wondering if you ever had that level of energy.

Next

Tech Tuesday Masterlist

Tagging: @alicedopey; @delicatebarness; @ellethespaceunicorn; @icefrozendeadlyqueen; @irishhappiness; @jaqui-has-a-conspiracy-theory; @kingliam2019; @kmc1989; @late-to-the-party-81; @lokislady82; @ozwriterchick; @ronearoundblindly; @thecrandle

[soup-sloth]

this is entirely the fault of @waterbottlegal15 and @riooooooooo /pos

I made a second Karmor design, i love Karmor blue the smooshy boyfailure, but he works best in cute moments and domestic fluff stuff, this guy a more, realistic interpretation of Karmor's character.

Text for those that cant read my stuff

Karmor 27 he/him FtM -Twitchy and on edge -chipped a tooth biting something he shouldn't have been (bites and chews things when stressed, which is a lot) -Does parkour (not very strong but light on his feet) -Would go on short hikes and weekend camping trips. Always in safe, well travelled areas. It was a way to relax a bit (before he got fucking muted and voodooed to the future on another planet) -Has a mark that looks like barbed wire wrapped around his neck, courtesy of the Mad Crow -Wraps bandages around his neck to cover the marks -His camping bag ended up with him -In the bag he keeps: Compass, bright flashlight (the kind that you could use to flashbang someone), field guides for whatever area he's currently in, notebook from Mahatma, beef jerky and gummies (or other chewy candies) to keep from biting things that will break another tooth, collapsible survival shovel (it has a sharp edge for cutting things), (not pictured) emergency flares, gun from hipswitch (i wasnt gonna draw those) -hair gets lighter streaks in it from being out in the sun (my hair actually did this as a kid when i was outside a lot more)

also thanks to @zeke-fanfucs and rio for the ideas on how his powers look, ill do a visual ref of that when i can be bothered to draw a close up of hands

[phie04]

Inconvenience | g.clarke

Chapter 4: Tough Day

Summary: The boys try and help Noa with a new project

Word Count: 1.2k+

Warnings: swearing, George being a dick (again)

Roughly a week or so had passed since Noa moved into her new apartment, and her hopes that George would warm up to her hadn’t been achieved yet.

Even though she spent most evenings with the boys, he would still only talk to her if the others were there, and whenever he could he avoided her at all costs.

It was beginning to bother Noa. She couldn’t understand why he was acting this way towards her, and after thorough discussions with his other roommates, they confirmed that she hadn’t done or said anything to cause this behaviour.

Luckily, Arthur Hill and her got on like a house on fire, and being one of the better housemates at DIY, he aided in building most of her new furniture whenever he wasn’t recording a video or working on his new song.

“So when’s it coming out? I feel as if I can only listen to the same sound bite before I go crazy.” Noa said, glancing up from her laptop to look at Arthur, who was sitting on her kitchen counter.

“Should be done in a couple of weeks, just trying to iron out the wrinkles and sort the bridge out.” He replied, taking a long swig of tea out of the mug that she had leant him. “What are you working on? I feel as I can hear your brain whirring.”

Noa grumbled and massaged her temples. It was moments like these that she wished she had an influencer job, with complete creative freedom and a flexible schedule, instead of her gruelling 9-6. “Trying to find as many different types of ancient column design as possible. Well, not too ancient because the clients want their building to look modern enough.”

Arthur gave her a sympathetic look. “You really are bottom of the food chain in your firm aren’t you?”

“Yep. That’s what you get when you’re the new kid, all the tasks that no one else wants.”

“But at least you’re not having to make coffee and do paperwork right?” He asked hopefully.

Noa raised her eyebrows at him. “Why do you think I’m having to do this at home, and not in the office.”

“Ah.”

“Ah indeed.” She muttered, scrolling through another page of Grecian inspired pillars. “Honestly, sometimes rich people have too much money to spend. I mean, who needs a foyer with the three types of alternating pillars, that match the fountains? Do you know how expensive that is Arthur?”

He winced. “I’m guessing a lot.”

“Correct.”

“Noa!” Chris yelled, swinging the door open. “You, me, George and the two Arthurs and the club. Yes?”

“Chris, it’s a Thursday night.”

“Exactly! Thursday night, do you have anything better to do?”

Noa blinked at him. “Be up in the morning with ample amount of sleep ready for work?”

“God I forget you have a boring actual job.”

“Someone has to remind you guys there’s an actual world out there.” She muttered, typing quickly on her computer, eyes widening as her stomach let out a low growl.

Chris and Arthur slowly turned their heads to look at her. “Okay, new plan. Order takeout and watch a movie?”

“I could be up for that.” She said quietly, absentmindedly chewing on the end of her pen, before going to jot down some notes. “Just need to finish working.”

Chris’ eyebrows raised. “And when will that be?”

“Before the end of time.” Noa said. “Or at least I hope so. I’ve gotta figure out the best combination of these pillars and then I’ll be done.”

“And how many combinations are there?”

“Well there’s eight main types, but then there’s different patterns within those. I might have actually lost count.”

Chris moved so that he could peer over Noa’s shoulder, and winced at the number of tabs open she had on her computer, as well as the scribbles that adorned her notebook.

“Gonna be honest. I’ve got no clue at what looks good. But I believe in you Noa, if anyone could figure it out it’s you.” He said reassuringly, patting her head. “Right, Hill let’s order food, at this point in time Noa will probably eat whatever we put in front of her, so what are we feeling up for?”

arthurhill

liked by arthurtv, maxbalegde and 28,039 others

arthurhill everyone drop your favourite pillars and columns to help with Noa’s latest design

Comments open

fan1 everyone knows the correct answer is doric

⮑ fan2 booo temple of winds supremacy

maxbalegde scared and confused at this comment section

⮑ noamurphy they’re all just architecture nerds like me

arthurtv correct answer is ionic

⮑ noamurphy no it isn’t I promise

⮑ arthurtv one day you’ll see

⮑ noamurphy sure. also we’re getting take out if you wanna join

⮑ arthurtv I am running to the elevator

fan3 noa in the ikea vlog is everything 😫🤌🤌🤌

⮑ fan4 she is a divine queen

⮑ fan3 her and George in the bed 🤌🤌

⮑ fan4 nooo that was the most forced and uncomfortable thing I couldn’t with it-

gkbarry_ we stan a hardworking queen

⮑ noamurphy love you boo

⮑ gkbarry_ okay now girlie take a break

“Okay Noa, maybe take Grace’s advice and stop? Surely it would be better to rest up and then be able to finish it when you’re not exhausted?” Chris asked gently, reaching to slide the laptop away from her grip.

Noa glared at him and swatted his hands away. “No Christopher. No.”

Chris gave her a stern look, only looking away when the door slammed open again, revealing Arthur Television in his pyjama trousers and hoodie. “Food, when?”

“The one with the law degree decides to speak like a caveman.” Chris muttered, shaking his head, as a much calmer George walked through the door.

Walking into her apartment, George was hit with the realisation that he’d never been in Noa’s apartment before - she’d always been at theirs, or if Chris and Arthur where heading down he’d give the excuse that he was busy planning videos.

He was pleasantly surprised. Well, he didn’t exactly know what to expect, but it definitely wasn’t a light and airy apartment. Maybe he thought there would be neon lights everywhere, like the ones that adorned Chris’ room or stacks of books like Arthur.

The living room was cosy, and he recognised the two sofas that they had picked out in Ikea, as well as a plush rug, with a coffee table that matched the dining table and chairs. A couple of pictures adorned the walls, a simple beach watercolour as well as some cinematic shots of her playing football with Arthur and Chris.

His brow furrowed. Neither of them mentioned that she played, and since she’d arrived they had filmed a football video for Chris’ channel, but she didn’t take part. Surely if Noa was good enough to warrant her to have photos of her playing, then surely Chris would want that talent in his videos?

George cast his eyes to Noa, who was hunched over her laptop, still trying to finish the designs. Arthur TV sat next to her, and the pair were discussing which column designs worked the best together.

“Maybe that person was onto something bringing temple of winds into the conversation…what if you put them with some Doric pillars, then…” Arthur trailed off, stumped.

“You see? Finding two designs that go together is easy, but a third? A fucking third?” Noa sighed, resting her head on the keyboard.

“How rich are the clients, ie, what’s the budget?”

“Yeah, are they Ronaldo rich, or so rich that you’ve probably never heard of them?” Arthur Hill asked.

“The second one.” She muttered. “Which is why it has to be perfect, because they are paying us a lot.”

Noa sighed and pulled up the designs of the fountains that had been chosen. She studied them meticulously, trying to find a hint that could help her. Even though it was strenuous work, this was one of the reasons that loved designing buildings, once you found all the right pieces, it perfectly fell into place like a puzzle. It was incredibly satisfying, and seeing the final projects always made her heart swell with pride.

But this was really trying her patience. Why couldn’t she figure it out? It didn’t also help that she had a live audience watching her stress over it. “Do you know when the food’s getting here?”

“Should be about five minutes.”

“Thank god.”

“Oh never mind, the guys here.” Chris said, slipping his shoes on, that had been previously abandoned by the door. “Arthur can you help carry it?”

“Sure.” Both of them replied, following Chris out of the door, leaving George alone with Noa.

She was silently cursing the three that had just left, physically wishing all the curses and ailments upon them for leaving her with George. Who, was silently leaning against her kitchen counter.

George didn’t know what to do. Ever since the trip to Ikea he hadn’t been close to Noa again, not that he wanted to, but he wasn’t sure if he should mention it. Why should he? If she hadn’t mentioned it then surely she was fine, right?

Not that he even wanted to talk to her.

George couldn’t fully see into Noa’s room, most is it being blocked by the angle at which he was looking in, and from what he could tell, it was just like the rest of the apartment, except with more decorations. He wasn’t sure why, but he was curious about what was inside, how Noa had organised her bookcase, what perfumes she used, how she kept her jewellery, the way her plans laid out on her sketching desk.

And he didn’t know why.

As far as he was concerned he actively disliked Noa, and so he couldn’t fathom why a part of him was so interested in her, why he wanted to know the little details of her life.

Noa closed her eyes. She was genuinely considering giving up, but she knew she couldn’t. This had to be finished that evening so that it could be sent to her supervisor ready for the next morning. Pushing her chair back, she stood up and paced into her bedroom, unknown to her that George’s eyes followed her every step, hoping that one of her books would provide her with some inspiration.

But it wasn’t any of her architecture books that caught her eye. It was the battered copy of the third Percy Jackson book - it was her favourite of the series, and would read it religiously as a child. Partially, as a child it was her dream to become a Hunter of Artemis, and so she could read the book over and over again without tiring of it.

Somehow, this was the prompt she needed to let the puzzle pieces fall into place. “OH MY GOD!” She exclaimed, sprinting out of her room and skidding on the wooden floor to the table. Noa grinned whilst nearly destroying her keyboard at how quickly she was typing.

“FOOOOD!” Chris called, carrying the plastic bags and setting them down in front of Noa.

“Dude give me two minutes I’ve figured it out.”

“Really?” Arthur TV asked excitedly, pulling the chair next to her out, so he could see what she was working on. “Caryatids? Noa that’s genius! They match the f-“

“Fountains yeah, because they’ve got marble women carved into them, and so they’d match perfectly.”

“Have we ever said you’re a genius?” Chris asked, smiling proudly at her.

“Only when I do genius shit.”

[tillichan]

❀˖° Love Triangle Matchup for @alt--er--love °˖❀

The first time Kunikida Doppo met you was when you were involved as a victim in the case of Armed Detective Agency. You spent a lot of time with Agency members, helping them to catch the suspect. Especially with Doppo and Osamu, because these two were assigned to this case. Kunikida Doppo sincerely believed in his ideals, he was sure that his future significant other will meet all the parameters of the section titled "Spouse" in his notebook. But once Doppo met you, his confidence wavered. You were just is perfect the way you are, doing your best to confront your traumas and helping the Agency, that Kunikida began to admire you. And not only as a great person. Of course, this hadn't escaped Dazai's attention.

Dazai: Kunikida-kun, you know, if you look at loved one long enough, this person will fall in love with you too. Kunikida starts staring at you without even blinking. Dazai: It was a lie. Kunikida: DAZAI!!!

Thanks to Osamu, the whole Detective Agency knew that he is in love with you. Doppo realized it fast too and started his attempts to win you over. He was a little awkward, as much as he wanted to cover this up, he couldn't. In his ideal world Doppo imagined himself as a cool gentleman, but reality was cruel. The day he finally decided to ask you out, Doppo stuttered a little, but thanked you and breathed a sigh of relief, as soon as you agreed. This was the first time Agency members saw Doppo that happy. Doppo confessed you at the end of your first date, making sure that everything was perfect. He invited you to the not too crowded art cafe, you mentioned recently, ordered a hearty meal and beverages that reminds you two of the days you spent together, investigating the case and gave you your favorite flowers. He had received a lot of advice from Dazai. Fortunately, he didn't use it. Doppo wanted to show you a seriousness of his purpose, that's why he said: "I have feelings for you. Would you like to be my girlfriend and marry me one day?"

• Doppo acts very gently and considerately towards you. He keeps notes in a separate notebook dedicated to you. Your likes, dislikes, your wishes, special date, all these facts can be found in his notebook. It slowly begins to resemble a diary, not just a notebook with facts about you, because Kunikida tends to get carried away and write notes about your possible future for example. • He works at Armed Detective Agency, it means that he went trough a lot and has seen a lot of bad things. As you do, Doppo wants to get better, so he absolutely loves how you push each other to be better. Your personalities perfectly compliment each other. Doppo tends to be more logical and think first, you're more empathetic and have more social intelligence than him. • You dream about all-consuming love? Well, Doppo maybe isn't the most romantic person, but he's extremely loyal and loving. Rest assured, you're his one and the only, he'll do his best to make you happy. Yes, Doppo is awkward sometimes, you has this power to turn stoic Kunikida into a blushing mess without even trying, much to delight of Dazai. Osamu finds it so enjoyable that his colleague is head over heels, he can't stop teasing him. • Doppo admires you a lot, you're just so talented person, not to mention that you're activist and volunteer. He joins you whatever you do. You have a new design project? Doppo made a note to learn more about it. You painted or wrote something new? He definitely wants to see it! You're reading a new book? Doppo will read it too to discuss it later with you. The new sports seem interesting for Doppo, he doesn't mind to do yoga or figure skating with you, he'd like to teach you some self-defence moves too. • Doppo had planned a perfect propose for month. But he proposed to you at the dock after a hard battle. At that moment he thought he'd never see you again, because you all were close to the end of everything. That's why as soon as he saw you Doppo hugged you tightly and then he got down on one knee and pulled out a ring box. "I want to be with you forever. Will you be my wife?" • Your wedding was held in the circle of close relatives and friends. The members of Armed Detective Agency were especially happy, some of them almost cried when you and Doppo spoke your wedding vows, promising to be together forever. Kunikida was very nervous, because he can't believe that this ethereal person agreed to be his wife. Looking at you in your wedding dress, Doppo smiled softly and was ready to cry too. • The members of Armed Detective Agency are happy that you and Kunikida are together. Fukuzawa is the person who encouraged Doppo to ask you out and gave him a lot of advices. He supports your relationships more than anyone. Atsushi, Kyoka and Tanizaki siblings love you as their older sister. "We won't forgive you if you hurt her!", they usually tell Doppo. Dazai mostly enjoys teasing Doppo, but he is jealous too.

Falling in love with you was the last thing Dazai Osamu expected out of his life. You were just a victim and witness in their case, nothing special. But Osamu was drawn to you, because he has always admired kind and empathetic people like you. First time, Osamu flirted with you as with all the other girls just to tease Doppo. But as soon as he realized that he began to develop feelings for you, he closed and distanced himself from you. It's almost impossible to start dating with Osamu, he's too afraid to have a true feelings for someone. He's afraid to lose the person he loves again. That's why nobody will ever know that he had a little crush on you. Osamu did his best to forget about you too. The one thing that gives away Osamu's feelings is that he acts more distantly with you. It's very strange, especially since he flirts with every single girl like there's no tomorrow. But his colleagues attribute it to your relationship with Doppo, that Osamu decided not to ruin your love. And somehow they are right, of course. Osamu truly thinks that Doppo is better significant other for you than him.

[thatsmzbitchtoyou]

Pretty P.A. Chapter 3

Summary: Y/N has been the personal assistant to the most influential and famous fashion modeling agency director in the industry for the past 13 years.  They’ve decided to retire, and are leaving the agency in the hands of their protege and former model, Bucky Barnes.  He seems plenty qualified, and Y/N is excited for a chance to work with him.  Change always takes time,  but the new insanely hot boss is distrustful and hesitant towards her.  **curvy reader** **Y/N/N = Your nickname ** Warnings: mentions of sexual assault (not from Bucky), some violence, blood, smut

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Another successful fashion week was under Olympus’ belt.  Each of their models had been booked for multiple fashion houses, and they had been able to scout more models and make an impact at the parties and shows.  Bucky and Y/N had been able to become closer on a more personal level, and he felt the reverence that Tony had described and talked about her with was well deserved as she made his entire life easier.  Y/N was enjoying working for Bucky.  They had a teasing but friendly relationship, where she supported him in whatever it was he was doing and felt at ease in giving him advice to help make his ideas better.  She was very attracted to him, and at times she thought maybe she caught him giving her long looks or side glances with a heated gaze, but she squashed those feelings just as quickly.  

Y/N was generally a self-assured person.  She was the curviest in the entire office, and also shorter than the tall models around her.  She dressed well, having her own personal style while also looking professional that helped her make the fashion connections needed for her job and make friendships with people in the industry.  Being surrounded by some of the most beautiful and slender people in the world at times shook her confidence, but she had never been made to feel bad about herself by any of them.  A part of her felt like Bucky could have the pick of the litter when it came to dating, so why would he pick her?  

The fallout from the email Y/N had sent out to the fashion industry gained national coverage, and Brock Rumlow was currently being investigated and sued by multiple people.  Alexander Pierce had no choice but to close Hydra Modeling and lost millions of dollars in the process.  His models were quickly picked up by other agencies, but their stories of mistreatment and the toxic work environment they had dealt with spread quickly in the community.  Bucky had a lot more media attention when it came to the lawsuits and his experience with Rumlow, and Y/N helped him handle the stress and overwhelm that came with that.  He knew it would be good for the agency to be a face to the voice of the models who had been assaulted, and felt a lot of responsibility for it as well.

Y/N was accompanying Bucky to a lunch meeting to meet with a potential new designer that was looking for models.  She arrived at lunch before him and the designer and decided to sit at their table and wait for them.  As she got herself settled with her notebook, typing away on her phone, someone sat in front of her.

“I’m sorry that seat is saved for–” Y/N began but then froze as she looked up.  Brock Rumlow sat in front of her, leaning against the table and giving her a murderous glare.  Her eyes widened momentarily but her face quickly turned into a scowl.  “Oh lovely.  The devil has arrived,” she sneered as she continued typing and swiping on her phone.

Brock snorted.  “Be grateful we’re in public, bitch, or I’d really give you the devil’s treatment.”

“Is that a threat, Mr. Rumlow?” Y/N sighed, decidedly bored with the conversation.

“A promise, Miss Y/L/N,” he grumbled.  “I hope you enjoy this high life while you still can.”  His face twisted into an ugly smirk.  “Have you had a chance to try out your boss’ dick yet?”  Y/N looked up at him, her own glare reflecting back at him.  “Everyone knows how well you took care of Tony all those years.”  Y/N rolled her eyes.  “Does dearest Bucky get it, too? He does have such a pretty cock,” Brock said lowly, a wicked smile curling his lips.

Y/N set her phone down and leaned against the table and hummed.  “I’m surprised you're even here Brock.  How long do you have until the cops come after setting off your ankle monitor?” Her eyebrows raised.  “They don’t take kindly to defendants breaking house arrest.  Especially sex offenders.  How old was that teen model…16?”  She leaned forward and whispered to him.  “I usually don’t wish ill on others, but I hope and pray that once the trial is over and you’re found guilty and sent to prison, that those inmates have a lot of fun with you and your tiny cock.”

Brock scoffed.  “You petty cunt.”

“How original,” Y/N scoffed back.  She grabbed her things and stood to leave, then Brock reached out and grabbed her wrist, twisting it hard and making her yelp in pain.

“You took everything from me–” he said, until suddenly his head was bashed against the table from behind.  Rumlow grunted and released Y/N’s arm and she gasped, stepping back a few paces.  She looked up to see Bucky holding Rumlow’s head down.  A pool of blood started to flow where Rumlow’s face was being smashed into the tablecloth.  The loud bang caught the attention of the people around them.

Bucky’s face was stony as he leaned down slowly to Rumlow’s face, his mouth near his ear, his eyes blazing under his furrowed brow.  “Touch my assistant again, and I’ll end you,” Bucky snarled.  He pushed Rumlow’s head once again for good measure then stood straight.  Rumlow groaned as he slowly pulled himself up looking dazed, his nose clearly broken.  Sirens blared outside as Bucky rounded the table to Y/N, his face softening as he looked at her.  “Are you okay?” he asked quietly, reaching out for the wrist that Rumlow twisted.  He held it up and inspected it, his jaw clenching when the bruise from Rumlow’s fingerprints was already forming.

“I’m fine,” Y/N said, her voice sounding small.  She stared up at him in shock, her mind not quite comprehending what just happened.

Bucky watched her for a moment before focusing back on her wrist.  He thumbed it gently just as the police and an ambulance arrived.  “I’d feel better if you got checked out by the paramedics,” he said with no room for argument.

Y/N blindly nodded as she was approached by an officer and a paramedic.  After a lot of talking and explaining, Bucky and Y/N were free to go and her wrist was bandaged.  Thankfully it was just sprained.  Rumlow was carted off in the ambulance with a police escort.  The meeting with the designer was delayed and Bucky quickly took Y/N back to the office.  Word had spread quickly amongst the other employees and models about what had happened, many of them coming to talk to Y/N and others texting and calling.  Bucky shooed everyone away and brought her to his office, shutting the door behind them.  Y/N stood by his desk as he walked back up to her.

“Y/N?” he asked.  She didn’t move.  She was still in shock, her face looking numb and her body moving stiffly.  “Hey,” Bucky rounded her to stand in front of her.  He leaned down to her eye level, trying to catch her attention.  Her eyes were unfocused, almost looking dead, and it scared him.  “Come on, babes, come back to me,” Bucky sighed.  His hands came up and cupped her face, his thumbs caressing her cheekbones.  

After a minute or two of him just holding her face her eyes fluttered shut, then she opened them again, looking startled at having him so close.  “Bucky?”

“Hey you,” he smiled.  “Welcome back.”  Y/N looked at him confusedly.  “You’re in shock, babes.  And I don’t blame you.  Just take your time.  Come back to me.”  Y/N gasped at remembering what had happened earlier, her hands flying up to grip Bucky’s wrists.  “It’s okay,” he leaned forward, resting his forehead against hers.  “It’s okay.  You’re okay.  I’m right here, just breathe,” he said, then started breathing through his nose deeply then out through his mouth.  Y/N copied him, staring into his big blue eyes, trying to regain her composure as the whole ordeal replayed in her mind over and over again.  

“Thank you, Bucky,” she breathed.  “I’ve never had someone…threaten me and lash out at me like that before.  I just didn’t know…” she swallowed harshly.  Her hands released his wrists and she reached out to clutch at his shirt.  Bucky let go of her face and stepped back to lean against his desk so they would be closer to the same height.  He pulled her forward between his legs and hugged her and she desperately hugged him back.  His hands rubbed up and down her back as she tucked her face into his neck.

“I’ve got you,” he murmured.  “I’m so sorry I wasn’t there earlier.”

Y/N let him hold her for a long time.  She secretly reveled in the feeling of his body against hers, his strong arms and big hands comforting her.  She subtly breathed him in, his cologne and the smell of something so completely him causing a small shiver up her back.  She had been fighting some strong feelings towards him for a while now.  She didn’t want to be one of those assistants who sleeps with their boss.  It had never happened with Tony.  He was more like a father figure to her, and she had never felt anything romantic towards him.  Bucky was attractive, kind, efficient, fiercely loyal and passionate.  They technically wouldn’t get in any trouble if they did sleep together or have a relationship, but she was still hesitant.  She finally started to pull away from him.  

“I’m okay.  I’ll be fine,” she straightened up and stepped away from him.  “Thank you for helping me.  I uh…” she tried to think of a way to escape.  “I’ll call Cecilia and reschedule for another time.”  She nodded and gave him a tight lipped smile before turning to leave.

“Hey, woah,” Bucky stood.  “I think you should go home, Y/N.  Today was traumatic enough.”

“I’m fine, Bucky.  I’d like to focus on something else rather than sitting at home,” she waved him off and took another step toward the door.

“Y/N, go home and rest.  I can handle rescheduling a meeting,” he instructed, a frown on his face as he took another step toward her.

“No thank you,” she parried, reaching for the door handle.

“Y/N,” Bucky reached out and grabbed her hand.  He stepped toward her, making her back up into the wall behind her.  Y/N stared up at him, her eyes wide as he cornered her.  Bucky seemed just as surprised to be in this situation, looking down at her, just inches away from her face.  His eyes roamed her face, blinking rapidly as her breathing became heavy again.  Y/N didn’t dare move, afraid of what her reaction would be if she did.  They stayed like that for a minute, then Bucky’s eyes settled on her lips.  He slowly leaned forward til his nose softly bumped into her nose, angling his head like he was about to…

Y/N’s eyelids fluttered again as the desire within her felt like it was thrumming through her body, and her eyes flitted back and forth from his eyes to his lips.  Bucky leaned forward a little more and lifted her injured arm that he was holding.  He moved towards her mouth, then at the last second swerved to kiss her cheek by the side of her lips.  He brought the hand up and then moved his lips to her injured wrist, kissing it multiple times as he twisted it to reach around her arm.  He pulled away just slightly, his hand holding hers dropping, barely holding her fingers and shutting his eyes tight.

“Go home, babes,” he whispered.  

Y/N’s eyebrows furrowed and she looked at him incredulously.  She scoffed then ducked around him and opened the door, shutting it behind her hard.  She gathered her things and left the building, her cheek still burning from the feeling of his lips on her skin.

[stereopticons]

On This Day in Schitt's Creek: April 27

2019

Damsel in Distress [david/patrick, NR, 1,734] by deathbysandblk

Patrick's first time at a gay bar.

For Therein All Honor Lies [david/patrick, G, 1,299] by madcapkittycat

David's whole life has been an endless intermission careening towards the second act. His costume is beginning to unravel.

his favorite thing [david/patrick, NR, 595] by @startswithhope

David muses on one of his favorite things that Patrick does.

2020

[Podfic] He Sees You [david/patrick, E, podfic] by Amanita_Fierce

“Do you wear a lot of blue?” she asks. Cindy, her name tag says. She hands Patrick a pair of dark gray wire-frame glasses which he slides on until they hook behind his ears. And it’s not like—well everyone who knows him knows he likes blue. But he feels a little unsettled that this stranger picks up on it, like at she can see his whole life contained within the frames around his eyes. “Uh, yeah. I guess so,” Patrick says, taking them off again. This pair, like all the others she has given him, is exactly right and completely wrong. Or, Patrick gets glasses and thinks about identity. David helps. [Podfic of He Sees You, written by Distractivate]

Double Queer [david/patrick, E, 2,661] by AgentRusco

In this story we will explore Patrick being "Double Queer"-- that is, both trans and gay. I have chosen to write Patrick as a trans man -- female to male transgender. First up is just some sex, but I may flesh it out into an actual story that is mostly canon-compliant. Besides the trans!Patrick thing. Look for another story sometime down the road that has more plot.

I'll Be Home At Last [david/patrick, T, 8,679] by generally

“Okay. Let’s look at the art,” said Patrick, easygoing, like David hadn’t just threatened to kick him out of the building not ten seconds ago.Something tightly wound inside of David loosened its grip, just a little. “Okay.” (David runs an art gallery in New York. After he makes a humiliating discovery, he seeks the help of a certain financial analyst.)

Leather and Lace [david/patrick, E, 6,079] by @thedidipickles

Patrick cleared his throat, a classic sign of trying to feign nonchalance. If Patrick wasn’t driving, David was certain his arms would be crossed. “I said it’s funny because we actually have this at home, leather and lace.” “I mean, yeah, I probably have the album,” David replied, a bit unsure of the point. Patrick cleared his throat again. Poor thing, whatever he was trying to articulate was clearly not coming easily. “No,” he half-laughed. “I meant we have leather, and we have lace. You have a couple jackets, you know? And the, ah, lingerie.”

You Can Plan on Me [david/patrick, M, 8,545] by odofidi

For the first Christmas in their new home, David and Patrick navigate around having their families all together. And David learns that having Marcy Brewer around is pretty awesome.

2021

[art] concrete jungle where dreams are made of [gen, G, fanart] by budd

A branding mock-up for Alexis Rose Communications featuring a PNG logo as well as a front and back business card design.

[Podfic] By Any Other Name [david/patrick, G, podfic] by Amanita_Fierce

The practice of taking someone else’s name hadn’t even seemed odd until Twyla asked who was changing their name after the wedding, him or David, as she dropped his tea on the counter weeks ago. Patrick had blinked at her and realized he didn’t have an answer. No one had ever asked before. Everyone had always known Rachel was going to become Rachel Brewer. She’d doodled it on half a dozen notebooks in high school. But with David, well, Patrick hadn’t even thought about it. Now he couldn’t stop. [Podfic of "By Any Other Name" written by DoubleL27]

An Affordable, Everyday Ride [david/patrick, T, 1,900] by @thesleepyskipper

It was another wild and crazy Friday night at the Wobbly Elm. David is starting to get tired of the way Alexis and Ted are always on top of one another every time they go out, rubbing their relationship in his face. Alexis was dancing up on Ted all night long, calling him ‘babe’ about fifty times too many and making out with him where everyone could see. Gross. Stevie is supposed to be his single wing-woman. But no, Jake had arrived late into the evening and taken her attention away from participating in one of David’s favourite pastimes - judging the unfortunate fashion choices of the other patrons of the bar. At the end of the evening, David has to call an Uber to take them all home. “Patrick will be there in 7 minutes” comes up on the screen along with the little car icon on the map showing his location. Hopefully this stranger can put up with their drunken shenanigans.

For a Good Time, Call... [david/patrick, E, 45,183] by youmadeeverythingokay

*now complete* Patrick Brewer is still coming to terms with his newly discovered sexuality, and is trying to work up the courage to do something about it.He spots a beautiful man at the bar but can't quite bring himself to act on it just yet. So he calls a phone sex hotline to help build his courage, but when a smooth voiced man he finds so intriguing picks up the phone, how far will he go?And what about the man at the bar, will he ever be able to find the strength to talk to him? Or, The sex hotline AU that nobody asked for!

Like Doors Open Wide [david & johnny, G, 2,216] by @my-nameless-bliss

Johnny tugs on the cuff of his sleeve, telltale preening beneath the gossamer-thin cover of his false modesty. “It’s a bit of a tall order to get a place like this up to David Rose standards, you know. Hopefully it’s not too far off the mark.” He nudges David with his elbow, and David rolls his eyes to cover his laugh, because that is blatant fishing.But maybe David doesn’t mind, right now.Still, he can’t quite shove aside the hot, itchy embarrassment that crawls up the back of his neck as he steadies himself and says, with perfect honesty, “It’s beautiful.”He refuses to look at Johnny’s reaction, but he can hear him hum, quietly pleased. And it’s… nice. It’s a nice moment. Until Johnny makes an awkward noise in the back of his throat. “I know it’s not Bali, but it—it’s the best I could do.”

Lithuania [gen, M, 300] by Rosey_Peach

2022

[podfic] in search of all things beautiful [david/patrick, T, podfic] by Amanita_Fierce

Patrick spends most of his life living in the conditional tense. And then he meets David and he stops saying should so much and starts sleeping a lot more. Alternatively, a lot of words about Patrick, sleep, and finding peace. Podfic of in search of all things beautiful by goingmywaydoll.

drunk idiots in love [david/patrick, T, 975] by @aoubooming

A collection of drunk texts spanning David & Patrick's relationship from their first meeting to their wedding.

Face Me [david/patrick, G, 217] by @tyfinn

David wants to do something nice for his husband.

Fallout at the Fantasy [david/patrick, M, 30,223] by @trickiwooao3

Figuring out he was gay was one thing; actually being gay was another. Patrick attends a week-long Guys Meet Guys retreat with a strategy. When fate derails his careful plans, he is forced to depend upon the kindness of a generous, handsome stranger.

I can't believe you talked me into... wearing that [david/patrick, G, 203] by @lastchancecafe13

David should have known better than to leave Patrick in charge of their new staff uniforms.

It's Always Who You Least Eggspect [patrick & stevie, G, 297] by @weathereyehorizon

Stevie talks Patrick into some petty crime.

Just Add Glitter [david/patrick, T, 230] by @mostlyinthemorning

Jocelyn needs a favor. David can't believe Patrick has betrayed him like this.

ring around the Rose [david/patrick, G, 242] by @blackandwhiteandrose

There is literally no one else in the world David would consider doing this for. If that’s not love, he truly doesn’t know what is.

2024

Berry [david/patrick, G, 100] by @ramonaflow

Blue Steel [david/patrick, T, 600] by @tyfinn

Patrick continues to find new ways to troll his husband.

Stats:

No fanworks for 2017, 2018, or 2023 2019: 3 fics/3,628 words 2020: 5 fanworks (4 fics, 1 podfic)/25,982 words 2021: 6 fanworks (4 fics, 1 podfic, 1 fanart)/16,522 words 2022: 8 fanworks (7 fics, 1 podfic)/32,413 words 2024: 2 fics/700 words Total: 24 fanworks (20 fics, 3 podfics, 1 fanart)/112,340 words

[luza-wayne]

an important question.

miya osamu x reader

1.8k words

osamu bby! hope you enjoy this!

the sliding door opened and you quickly turned around and smiled at the person who just went in.

“welcome!” you and your workmates said, everybody's reflex making everyone speak in chorus.

when the customer settled for a seat, you quickly walked to them and pulled out your notebook and pen.

“good afternoon, what would you like to have today?” 

“yes. i’ll have today’s special.” they answered, smiling.

“roger.” you said as you wrote it down. you turned around and looked at the kitchen’s door where the cook patiently waited for orders.

“today’s special for one!” you shouted and he gave you a thumbs up to say he's got it.

as you were about to clean out one of the tables, you heard the door open again.

“welcome!” 

i think we're going to have a busy day today. 

… 

“phew…” you exhaled.

“(y/n),” the owner who also manages the counter calls. “please do the honor.” he joked.

you chuckled as you made your way to the entrance.

you turned the signage around and showed the ‘closed’ side. 

finally, you sighed.

you walked back in after you picked up the board outside. 

“one customer said that there was a graduation ceremony nearby.” your colleague informed everyone.

“so that's why…” you replied.

“let's clean up fast so we can go home already.” the owner ordered and you all headed to your designated cleaning areas and started the work. 

as you were arranging the plates, your workmates called you.

“(y/n), hey.” she said,

you turned around to look at her, but suddenly you're being pushed to the back door.

“eh? why? i'm not done with the plates yet.” you said.

“i’ll do it. i’ll do it. he’s waiting for you. i still owe you a favor for covering for me last time.” she said, giggling while she went back inside.

you knew who she was talking about, so you just thanked her and went to your locker and changed.

you tried your best to be as fast as possible, your feet probably moving faster than shinkansen.

you looked at the clock and noted that he's already waiting for fifteen minutes. fortunately, you're already done packing your things and retouching your makeup. 

you went to say goodbye to your workmates and to the owner.

you opened the backdoor and saw him sitting on the railing wearing earphones and scrolling through his phone, most likely, he's on tiktok.

since he didn't notice you were out already, you walked behind him and covered his eyes with your hands.

“guess who?” you uttered with a slightly different voice.

“damn. hmm… i wonder who… i can't think of anyone… oh my god… who is this?” he replied with the most monotonous voice you've ever heard in your life.

“haha, you're so funny.” you said as you removed your hand off of his eyes.

“why? i played along though?” he asked as he opened to you the plastic bag he was holding. 

“whatever.” you said as you scan for a certain flavor of onigiri in the bag.

he noticed you searching for your usual pick of onigiri.

“ah, shit. sorry, it was sold out today. i told one of my workers to leave some, but he was a newcomer, so he forgot it. pick a different flavor for now. i'll be sure to bring some next time.” he explained as he scuffled through the bunch of onigiri, looking for a certain one.

“here, try this. it's a new flavor. i'm still working on it. if you think it's good enough, then i'll add it to the menu.” he muttered and handed you the food.

“come on, don't say that. you’re pressuring me.” you whined, but still accepted it.

“well, your favorite flavor was also made because you kept inventing and mixing up ingredients, ingredients that are kinda suspicious actually, but who would've thought it'll become a massive hit to the customer.” he muttered as he stood up.

“first of all, i didn't know you put it on the menu and second, that just means that my taste buds are for the masses.” you said and took a bite off of the onigiri. “it's delicious, but it's kinda bland.” you commented.

“of course, i'll put it in. you said you liked it and that i should put it for sale. also, noted. thanks for the review.” he replied. he held you on your waist to silently tell you two to start walking. 

“i was obviously just kidding about putting it for sale! why would you take it seriously?” you told him, looking up at him. all while still continuing to eat. 

he just chuckled at your complaints and then went to grab one onigiri for himself too.

“at least, many people liked it.” he countered. 

“well… of course, i'm glad about that.” you replied.

you squeezed closer to him and rested your head on his side of his chest. he held your body a bit tighter, so that he could guide your body on the way home. 

“anyways, how was your work?” you asked, starting a new topic.

“well, it was quite hectic today.” he started and you hummed as a reply for him to continue his story.

“the newbie i was talking about earlier made a lot of mistakes, but he's getting the hang of it.” he added.

when there is a crossroad, the traffic light is still red. he stopped and looked at the remaining time. there's still a lot left.

you automatically stopped walking too when he did, but didn't bother to look at the lights. you know he'll tell you when it's green already.

while waiting he rested his chin on your head, before planting kisses on your hair. he likes smelling your hair. even after work hours, he said it still smells good and would smell it regardless.

“let's go.” he softly informs you when the lights say go.

responding to his voice, your body just moved on its own and followed the guidance of his hold on your waist.

“how about yours? did your work go well?” he queried next.

“it was so busy today.” you immediately replied, your voice unintentionally made a whining sound, not that you mind him hearing it. “there was a graduation ceremony near our work and a lot of families were celebrating there.” you complained as you wrapped your hands around his body and buried your face on his shirt.

the smell of his perfume is still present. the fragrance that you like the most.

he straight away comforted you by rubbing your back up and down.

“good work.” he chuckled.

you looked up at him, glaring.

“what? why did you laugh?” you asked.

“you're so cute.” he said, without missing a beat.

you immediately hide your face by burying your face once again on his shirt as soon as you feel your face heating up. 

“stop it, idiot.” you said.

“yeah, yeah.” he replied while ruffling your hair.

as you turned a corner, osamu remembered one thing they were talking about earlier. 

“that's right. are you free this weekend?” he asked.

you glanced up at him and tilted your head.

“why?” you told him.

“we're having a vacation with the whole family. wanna come with me?” he nonchalantly asked.

you let go of him and looked at him with a raised eyebrow. 

“are you serious?” you questioned him.

“that was a genuine question.” he answered.

with his family?!

“i-i'll give it a thought.” you replied.

“you don't have to come if you don't want to.” he reminded you as he pulled you closer again and planted a kiss on your forehead.

“i'll understand, don't worry. 'tsumu's also there so i definitely understand.” he snickered.

“it's not about atsumu! i actually get along with him pretty well. ah— that's right, i saw him the other day. he treated me to a drink, haha.” you said, thinking back about that day.

“what?” he halted and of course, because he was holding you close, you stopped too.

“why didn't you tell me about that?” he asked with a serious voice.

you were not an idiot. of course, you know why he's acting like that.

you wrapped your arms around his neck.

“don't worry. he didn't do anything funny. he was quite respectful to be honest. he knows his boundaries.” you smiled at him to calm him down.

he was unsure at first, but he did calm down from his obvious intent to land a punch on his very lovely twin. all thanks to you, though.

it’s not that he doesn’t trust atsumu, it’s just with the current situation, he might blurt out something unnecessary.

“here's my house. thanks for walking me home.” you said as you stood in front of him and tip toed.

“you're welcome, madame.” he replied to you.

noticing that you were tip toeing, he smiled and leaned down.

“thank you.” you said as you kissed his cheek. you smiled at him and he didn't even try to hide his blushing face.

“hey,” he hesitated for a moment.

“hm?” you hummed.

“i just wanna ask… are we—” he looked at you.

he sighed and shook his head sideways.

“nothing. good night.” he uttered, smiling. 

“be careful on your way home, okay? bye-bye.” you said as you turned around and walked inside.

“i will.” he smiled watching you go inside your house.

as soon as he made sure you got inside safely, he started walking towards his house. since he's alone now, he can now walk faster.

when he arrived home, he saw atsumu arriving too.

“why are ya' here?” he asked.

“what? can't i visit my twin's place?” he answered, already sounding offended by his twin's question.

osamu just rolled his eyes and opened the front door.

“did ya' just arrive home too? ya’ sure are late.” atsumu said, looking at his wristwatch. “ah. ya' walk (y/n) home, didn't ya'?” he guessed— right.

“hm… being so clingy with each other and even kissing, on the cheeks, picking her up from her work and even walking her home. are ya' sure ya' two ain't in a relationship?” atsumu smirked.

osamu looked back at him and glared.

“shutting yer' mouth will get ya' dinner, just so ya' know.” he threatened.

atsumu knows it better than anyone else. he really won't give him his home-cooked dinner if he won't shut up. 

osamu walked to the kitchen and started preparing dinner. 

“stupid 'tsumu. i also wanted to ask her that.” 

meanwhile, you turned the lever of the shower and closed your eyes.

i thought he was gonna ask me about our current relationship earlier. you thought as the water hit your skin.

i chickened out earlier. osamu thought as he turned on the stove.

both sighed in defeat.

next time, i’m really going to ask it! they both said for a million times, only to not bring it up tomorrow.

hope you enjoyed that one, because i did. reblogs would be much appreciated!

if you'd like to support me and my broke ass, you can tip me at my ko-fi acc! thank you very much!

[crystalrabbit246912]

Bookbinder Yuu

So I should probably be focusing on my thank you fic for 1000 likes and 25 reblogs (there's probably more than that, but Tumblr only tells me about milestones, so thank you all so much for all of the likes, reblogs, and comments), but I had a thought and it's not leaving my mind, so I figured I might as well make this.

I've been getting into bookbinding lately (the process of making books) and I started imagining if Yuu was a bookbinder and their bookbinding tools got transported Twisted Wonderland along with them.

Imagine Yuu threatening people with an awl when they get upset, which happens a lot. (If you don't know what an awl is, either look it up or just know that it's a sharp tool) Ace, Grim, and Deuce to a lesser extent get threatened a lot, and Ace and Grim get stabbed a little so they know it's not an empty threat.

The carbonara guys in the cafeteria and Cater after he tricks them into painting the roses also get stabbed in Book 1, as well a lot of Savanaclaw guys in Books 2 and 3.

Basically all of the Overblot guys get stabbed at some point during their Overblot, and the few people that haven't been stabbed are Trey (although he got threatened in the library), Kalim (he's the only guy that's never been threatened), Epel (I don't know when, but he got threatened at some point), Lilia (though Yuu's definitely tried), and Silver (Yuu's considered pricking him to wake him up, but he's too nice for them to do that).

Moving onto something more wholesome, Yuu makes books as gifts for the squad. They made the Heartslabyul, Savanaclaw, and Octavinelle guys fun, personalized books for Christmas, and some for Scarabia over break, and they always have a project going.

The first-years in particular are the ones that have gotten stabbed the least (minus Ace and Grim), so they get a bunch of random, really beautiful notebooks (mainly Deuce, Jack, Epel, and Sebek, since they'd actually use them), sketchbooks, and photo albums for Ortho, since he can actually use them.

The upperclassmen get less, but Yuu gives all of them at least two books at random points throughout the school year. Trey gets blank cookbook style books that he can write his recipes down in, Cater gets photo albums with covers that he can photograph for Magicam, Riddle gets actual notebooks, just with fun designs on the covers, because that's what he'd actually use.

Yuu tends to write down puzzles from their world in books for Leona, because that's something that he'd actually use, while I'm blanking on ideas for Ruggie.

Azul, Jade, and Floyd tend to get books at the same time, because Yuu doesn't want to risk upsetting one of them. The covers usually match for the Tweels and correlate with Azul's, or the Tweels get inverted designs while Azul's is similar. Inside, Azul and Jade get notebooks since they go to class and pay attention, though there's compliments and small mushroom doodles on the margins. Floyd would get sketchbooks, since he does have drawing moods occasionally.

Kalim and Jamil would usually get books at the same time as well because Yuu doesn't want Jamil to feel inferior to Kalim or something like that. Kalim usually gets sketchbooks because drawing is something fun for Kalim to do and Jamil gets either notebooks or empty cookbooks for him to fill.

Vil gets notebooks because Yuu doesn't know what else to give him, considering he's a celebrity, he can practically buy whatever he wants, so they don't expect him to really use them. (At the next joint class, they're really surprised to see him using a notebook they gave him.) Rook gets scrapbooks that he can fill with his Vil and Neige photos that he gets... somehow. Because he's Rook.

Idia either gets manga-style books that he can draw his own manga in or notebooks in which he can lore-dump for games, anime, or manga, or make theories about what happens next.

Malleus gets notebooks and he's really happy about them because they're gifts from his first friend, so he cherishes them. I have no ideas for either Lilia or Silver.

Crowley would ask Yuu why he never gets books despite the fact that he's so 'kind' to them, and they smack him in the face with a book to shut him up.

[uniquexusposts]

Her || Charles

Main characters: Charles Leclerc x OC Genre: fanfiction, fluff  Story type: novel  Part: 20/45 Word count: 2858 Co writer: @mistrose23

Story summary: Matilde Jørgensen, the new Scuderia Ferrari team principal, faced the nerve-wracking challenge of reviving the team's fortunes and aiming for a championship. Leading a historic team as a 'newbie' and separating her work and personal opinions posed a significant challenge. The big question: is she capable to do so?

Previous chapter

Chapter 18. Statement

"Buongiorno," Charles greeted his colleagues when he entered the engineer's truck. His eyes scanned the people who had already sat on their spots. He missed one person, but she must be getting some tea or coffee.

His colleagues greeted him back. Charles sat down in his designated spot next to Matilde, who usually would sit at the head of the long table. It would give her an overview of the team. Charles noticed how her seat was untouched, her notebook and laptop weren't there, just like the tangerine she always ate every morning. It had only happened once that she was late and that was on her first day. It became normal to arrive and see Matilde already sitting there. She was the first to arrive and the last to leave.

Carlos entered the room. "Sorry for being late. There are so many fans out there," he apologised. He sat down across from Charles. He looked at Matilde's spot. "Where's Matilde?" He was surprised.

"Late," an engineer replied.

"Oh. Weird."

Even though the meeting had to begin when Carlos entered the room, people were still busy with preparations. Some didn't mind having a few extra minutes, but it was unusual.

Ten minutes had passed the designated starting time and Matilde was still nowhere to be seen. Members started to exchange puzzled glances. Even if Matildle was a minute late, she would tell someone about it. Her being ten minutes late already, was not right.

"Did someone try to call Matilde yet?" one of the engineers finally suggested.

"I already tried. No answer," someone else answered.

"And Galileo? Did someone try to contact him?"

"Shouldn't we just begin? We need to get this done before we run out of time."

"No, let's just wait for a bit longer. She must be on her way," another voice chimed in, hope lingering in the words.

"I texted Galileo," someone else mentioned.

Just seconds after that, Galileo and Silvia entered the room. Their presence alone was enough to signal that something was amiss. The usual smiles were absent, replaced by expressions of concern. They were never at a briefing like this.

"Can I get everyone's attention, please," Galileo's voice cut through the room, making sure everyone stopped with whatever they were doing. He took a moment to survey the room. "As you have noticed, we are missing the team principal today. Matilde will not be present today, tomorrow, and Sunday," he announced, causing eyebrows to raise in collective surprise. She had never missed one day of work.

A murmur of questions and confusion rippled through the room. Carlos, unable to contain his worry, spoke up first. "What? Why? What happened?"

"We are only allowed to share with the team that Matilde is hospitalised for a personal reason," Galileo responded somberly.

More questions were being asked about the situation.

"Her family has kindly requested that we not contact Matilde until she reaches out to us herself. We will not have a replacement for this weekend, so we must do it together."

Silvia nodded in agreement, her usual vibrant energy subdued. "We will publish a statement in a moment, written by Matilde's family. Charles and Carlos, when talking to the media or someone else who asks about it, you will say she will not be here at the track until further explanation. There will probably get some fuzz around it, let them be, but don't say anything about the hospital. Galileo and I are informed about the situation, but the media doesn't have to know it yet. They asked not to share it because they are still waiting on some results and do not want to share it yet. But do know that she is fine and not in a life-threatening situation. It is a private matter and for you, a team matter. For your further information, Christian Horner and Toto Wolff were there when it happened, but they have also been requested not to share anything with anyone. For now, that is all we know and all we can share. When we get an update, you will be the first to know about it. For questions about it, you know where to find me."

A sense of collective shock settled over the room, the usual camaraderie replaced by an atmosphere of uncertainty. The team members were left with more questions than answers, their concern for Matilde was palpable.

"May I ask why Matilde's family is in control of all the communications? Just curious to know..." one team member ventured, voicing the questions that echoed in the minds of many.

Silvia exchanged a glance with Galileo before responding. "Matilde's family is handling the situation because they value their privacy, and we respect that. Matilde's brother is a press officer and will be dealing with this for now. Let's focus on the tasks at hand and wish Matilde a swift recovery. Updates will follow when we have them."

"We do have a card, so if you would like to write something down, please, do it," Galileo mentioned and gave a massive 'Get Well Soon' card to Charles.

"Can it be stress?" Charles worriedly asked. He knew he had created a lot of fuzz and stress last week. He was worried this could be his fault.

"That's something we cannot share, Charles," Silvia weakly smiled.

He silently gasped for air; he had caused this. Fear flickered in his eyes. "Okay," Charles mumbled and opened the card. As he grabbed a pen, his mind became blank. He stared at the empty card, processing the situation.

The room fell into a contemplative silence, the weight of the unknown casting a shadow over what should have been a routine morning briefing. The Silverstone weekend had begun under a cloud of uncertainty, and the Scuderia Ferrari team found themselves navigating uncharted territory without their leader.

- press statement -

Official Statement from the Family of Matilde Jørgensen and Scuderia Ferrari

Dear Scuderia Ferrari and Formula 1 Fans,

We want to inform you that Matilde has been admitted to the hospital for a medical concern that requires some attention. We want to assure everyone that she is currently stable and receiving the necessary medical care. We understand the desire for more details, but we kindly request your understanding and respect for our family's privacy during this sensitive time.

At this time, Matilde needs some space for rest and recovery. Consequently, she will not be present for the upcoming weekend, and we appreciate your understanding regarding her absence. The medical team is taking good care of her, and we are hopeful for a swift and smooth recovery.

As always, we are grateful for Matilde's support and love from the Ferrari family, the Formula 1 community, and fans worldwide. We kindly request respect for our privacy during this period and will keep you updated as necessary.

Thank you for your understanding and warm wishes.

Sincerely,

The Jørgensen Family and Scuderia Ferrari

* * *

It didn't stay unnoticed that there was one team principal missing during the Friday at Silverstone. The news travelled fast through the paddock and beyond. As the morning unfolded, whispers of concern reverberated through the media centre, press rooms and social media platforms. The press release from the family and team confirmed some of the rumours, and photos and videos that were taken last evening - a few fans spotted the rushing ambulance leaving the paddock in the evening, causing so many rumours - but it was Matilde who was taken to the hospital.

Reports were exchanging speculative theories about Matilde's sudden absence. Twitter and other social media channels became flooded with questions and speculation because the statement provided minimal details. It confirmed her hospitalisation, but left the reason shrouded in mystery. Fans and media were craving information about the young team principal. The lack of information became a breeding ground for rumours and speculation.

The week began with all its focus on the huge sporting event in the weekend, but it quickly shifted to the missing and hospitalised team principal.

The whispers and speculations reached a crescendo when fans began piecing together the timeline of events. Fans witnessed the fallout back in Spielberg last weekend, could that be a reason for the absence? The realisation that Matilde was taken from the track to the hospital stirred a wave of anxiety among the Ferrari faithful. Concerned messages flooded the team's social media accounts, asking for updates and offering words of support.

The team was just as affected as the fans were. The first free practice was full of mistakes, especially by Charles. He was distracted and that was noticeable; messy mistakes in the corners, delayed reactions and the times were off. He blamed himself for Matilde's absence and it weighed heavily on his shoulders. He had been a pain in the arse to her, he gave her a hard time. What if he went too far?

Throughout the entire day, he kept reading the speculations on social media. He didn't know what kind of impact it had on the fans, but it was probably caused by the not-saying-much press release.

Tweets:

"MATILDE IS HOSPITALISED??? WHAT HAPPENED TO HER???"

"Just heard a theory about Matilde's absence at Silverstone - some say it might be stress-related burnout. Hoping for her speedy recovery!!!"

"Heard some dark whispers about Matilde leaving due to internal team clashes. It might be the reason why Matilde collapsed during the team principal's meeting. Hope it's just wild speculation!"

"Ferrari is no good to their team principles. Maybe Matilde collapsed due to all the fights within the team. Everyone does what they want to do in the team. What is going on?!"

Nobody in the team was aware of a sudden departure, but to Charles, it kinda wouldn't be a surprise after the way everyone treated her, including him. Gossip travelled fast through the paddock and over the internet, just like wild theories.

However, the day continued and Charles still had to see the media after the free practices.

"Charles, tough day out there on the track. Can you walk us through your day and the challenges you faced?" F1TV asked.

"Yeah, it was a bit of a tricky one today. We struggled a bit with the balance of the car during the first practice. We were trying some new setups, and it didn't go as smoothly as we hoped." Charles honestly replied and looked around while talking, he never looked the interviewer in the eyes during the interview. "The car felt a bit unpredictable, especially through the high-speed corners. But we have collected enough data, so we will work on it."

The interviewer nodded. "We saw during the second practice that you improved some runs. It seemed like you had it under control."

"Yes, we made some adjustments and it did feel better, but we're still not where we want to be," Charles replied. He was glad the man was only asking about the practices. It felt like he finally could answer properly and think about something else. "We are working hard to analyse the data and find some solutions for tomorrow, for qualifying, and of course, for Sunday." He showed a brief, but promising smile.

"The world is all thinking of Matilde's absence, did it have any impact on the team's performances today?"

Cheered too soon. "Well, it's certainly a bit different not having Matilde around. We all miss her, and I think it's been a bit of a challenge for everyone."

"Fans are speculating about Matilde's situation. Some say it's a reaction to your clash last week in Spielberg, that it caused her to be overstressed and perhaps even burnout. We've seen quite some moments that didn't go smoothly between her and the team. Do you have anything to say to that?"

Charles took a deep breath, recollecting his thoughts. "Uh... I wish I could provide more information, but honestly, I don't have my details. Matilde's family and the team have asked for privacy, and we respect that. All I can say is that we're sending our best wishes her way, and we hope to have her back with us soon," he replied. It was a scripted response, he had to learn that from Silvia and so far, it worked well. "But," he said before the reporter would ask his next question. Charles wanted to share that they made it up. He didn't have the chance to say it to anyone. "About the situation in Spielberg, we talked about it, and we're fine. I also spoke to Carlos and Max, we're all fine now. It was an unfortunate moment, and I'm not proud of it, but we have to look ahead of us, not behind us."

"Thank you for sharing this, Charles. We wish Matilde the best, and we hope to see her soon again."

"Thank you," Charles nodded and returned to the Ferrari hospitality.

"You didn't have to say the last part," the press officer mentioned.

"I wanted to."

The entire team made themselves ready for the debrief again. The engineers were already sharing some points with each other, others were enjoying an espresso, and some people were scrolling through special media.

"Guys," one of the engineers said. "There's a tweet going around that Matilde collapsed due to an addiction issue."

Silence fell in the room, and looks were shared. It was like someone pressed the pause button, no one was moving or saying anything.

"I heard a reporter say that the hospitalisation is linked to high blood pressure due to an unconfirmed pregnancy," someone else added.

Charles sat down on his chair, he was lost in the sea of rumours, the uncertainty gnawing at him.

One of the engineers noticed the unease in the room and took charge. "Alright, people, let's focus. For whatever reason Matilde is hospitalised, it still doesn't change the fact that we will support her. Whatever is circulating out there, is just speculation. We will hear from her once she is ready. But we have a job to do, and that's what we'll do now."

Everyone shifted their attention back to the technical details, the debriefing starting, but Charles remained distracted. The rumours circulating about Matilde's conduction were like a storm in his mind, each one more unsettling than the last. As the debrief continued, Charles had ups and downs regarding his concentration. When he needed to be focused, he was focused, but when it wasn't about him, his mind drifted away.

Luckily for Charles, the debrief came to an end quickly. He had to find Max, perhaps he knew something more about Matilde. He walked to the Red Bull's hospitality like he had one goal and one goal only.

"What are you doing here?" Max confusedly asked, he was walking around with his dinner, trying to find a spot to eat.

"Matilde... Do you know if she's okay?"

Max glanced around, making sure no one was in earshot. He signed to Charles that he could enter the cafeteria. They sat down in the corner of the area, where they had some privacy. "I don't have all the details, mate. But from what I've heard, it's serious enough that they're keeping it all under wraps. Toto and Christian were there when it happened, but even they are tight-lipped."

"But you are close to her..."

"I tried to call her, but her brother picked up the phone, not giving much information."

Charles felt a lump in his throat. "What do you think happened?"

"No idea. But you know Matilde, she's tough. She'll pull through."

Charles nodded, trying to hide the worry etched on his face. "But all those rumours," he breathed. "Stress, burnout, depression, clashes in the team. Maybe I'm the cause, maybe I pushed her to the limit and now she collapsed because I am a dickhead. And the rumours about an addiction, or unconfirmed pregnancy. I even heard that she had a miscarriage because of the stress I give her." He looked and sounded hopeless, a side Max hadn't seen of him yet.

"Don't blame yourself for things you don't know," Max replied.

"I just can't shake off this feeling that I could've done something differently."

"We all have those moments. But right now, she needs our support. If there's anything you can do, it's to stay focused on the race, keep the team together, and give her the strength she needs when she comes back."

Charles looked at Max, making eye contact, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and distress. "I hope she comes back."

"She will." Max observed Charles' body language. Charles had a hard time hiding his emotions, and the situation was taking a personal toll on him. Max could see that Charles genuinely cared about Matilde, and the worry for her well-being weighed heavily on his shoulders. It was a stupid thought, but perhaps that was the reason why Charles couldn't get along with Matilde.

"You care about her, don't you?" Max asked, his tone gentle.

Charles sighed, not attempting to mask his emotions. "Yeah, I do," he whispered, running his hand through his hair. "More than I probably should, given our position. She's my team principal. The entire team is, was, shocked, but they can handle it. I...I just can't stop thinking about the things I've done to her."

"She'll be fine. And none of this is your fault."

Next chapter

Taglist: @itsjustkhaos @crashingwavesofeuphoria@maryvibess @chocolatefartstrawberry @snzleclerc

[puzzled-pegasus]

On the ADHD demigods' stim habits (headcanon list)

Percy

He talks and mutters to himself a lot and he also paces around his cabin

Restless Leg(TM)

He used to chew on things a lot but adults told him that he was Not Allowed to bite pencils or shirt sleeves or paper or anything so his outlet is mostly snacks, chewy candy is the best for this

Someone get him a seashell chewy necklace please

Oh you know what they should have stim toys at the CHB gift shop for all the ADHD kiddos

He also probably cracks his knuckles and joints a lot

He hums when there's a song stuck in his head and it's really annoying but he can't really stop it cause he doesn't notice until someone gets mad at him and then hes like ??

Annabeth

Annabeth tends to chew up her pencils a lot

She also compulsively daydreams and builds designs of buildings in her head and reviews lists of stuff she wants to remember

She finds herself doing random math while she's supposed to be paying attention. Like if someone is telling her something and her brain drifts off more often than not she's looking at something around and being like "let me just calculate how many bricks are probably in that stack over there" or "hmm i wonder how many gallons of water are in the canoe lake"

She also gets distracted if there's any other social interactions of people around her and she just people watches and makes inferences about what people are feeling and whats going on in their lives

Also she chews her hair and sometimes puts little braids in it

She picks at her skin too a lot and sometimes pulls out strands of hair

Piper

Piper flaps her hands a lot especially when she's excited

She flips and braids her hair too

If she has feathers on her she will sometimes take it out if she's bored and either preen it with her fingers or use it to tickle someone to annoy them

She sings a lot but mostly to herself and sometimes she can be heard humming or softly singing without noticing

If she has any kind of paper available, like notebook paper or napkins or maybe candy or gum wrappers, sometimes she'll make little origami things

She also picks at her nails quite a bit

Leo

Leo has the most stims that he's unable to mask, as we know already.

He taps on surfaces and messes with his clothing a lot

He also whistles sometimes which can get annoying to people around him so he tries not to do that but if he's alone or really concentrating on something he will

He will also play with pretty much anything he finds on the ground like paper clips and those office clamp things and he'll take apart mechanical pencils and pens and put them back together and if he finds a tack or a safety pin or something there's a 90 percent chance he'll stab it through the skin of his finger(s)

If he's outside he'll pick up leaves and flowers and shred them or pick up sticks and break them

He was also probably one of those kids who would put glue on his hands so he could peel it off

Jason

i wasnt sure if Jason had ADHD but I looked it up and it said he did so oh well lol

Hes like. Freakily good at masking stims and it kinda creeps everyone out especially the CHB demigods

BUT he still has them

He have the restless leg

He also does like random stretching sometimes

When he's standing in one place for a while he kinda stands on one leg or bounces his heels

Sometimes he'll pick up objects from the ground or something and play with it like Leo does, especially if he's outside and there's like rocks or something

He does a similar thing to Annabeth too but instead of math he'll try to identify any animal noises or animals he sees like birds in the sky or like if he hears a dog bark he'll try to figure out what kind of dog

Hazel

Hazel's stims are the least obvious but they are definitely there.

If she has a view of outside she will gaze out of the window or look around her and figure out how many types of trees or whatever that she can see

She will also mess with the seams or edges of her clothing

If she has paper around she'll draw horses or other animals or sometimes people or she'll practice her cursive letters and make them fancy

She picks at her skin and her hair as well

Frank

Frank does not have ADHD. He sits there quietly and everyone thinks hes weird. Sometimes he gets wiggly if he's nervous but otherwise nah