#im quietly taking a step back and will continue to observe from the distance

[ruskayas]

anyway the one reason i’m not deleting this blog is because i honestly eat with yelena’s backstory & im not letting any weirdos take credit for their “hcs” when i’ve built her from the ground up

[yostresswritinggirl]

hello, i love your writin'!! seriously, it's so cool to read and im just ajdhsish and this is the first thing- second thing, would you be comfortable with writin' albedo x gn reader (headcanons are cool yknow!) who dislikes goin' outside alone? like, they worry that somethin' bad will happen to them or are a bit scared of doin' things that might go wrong around people, so they prefer goin' outside with someone? (they also want to get rid of their fears but have no ideas how) i will understand if you don't want to so dw!! 👉👈

First thing, thank you so much for requesting! This took a while, I'm so sorryy! This was supposed to come out yesterday but I got sick and barely had the brainpower to even stand :(( feels better now tho so yey? And yess ahhh thank you for your kind words, you guys have been wonderful too, give yourself some credit too!

This is the last Albedo request in the inbox and woohoo, we ended this streak in one of the hard prompts I've come by so far ahaha

I'm not sure if I interpreted anon right but this shall be a fic as originally requested? I'm apologizing in advance because I don't think I've captured this scenario well enough hehe,,, but I hope you still enjoy this!

Keep Me Intertwined

Albedo with a gn!reader that's scared of going out alone (Mild Social Phobia?)

Albedo is a genuis, everybody knows that, even beyond the walls of Mondstadt. Praised and sought out by scholars to ask for his wisdom and a majority of the time they receive their desired enlightenment.

Indeed, the Kreideprinz is a genuis even if he says otherwise, but he's a genuis in the art of Kemia. And only that. Truth be told there are a lot of things he lacks when it comes to knowledge, as his focus is only in the science he wants to explore. Beyond that, he comes close to a child's understanding of the world.

When he bumped into you when he was strolling through the stalls during a market fair of travelling merchants, he'd thought it would be something he can shrug off easily, but as he moves his head to look at the perpetrator he'd hear a squeak of a "sorry" and a running figure. What?

Albedo silently pats himself down as he continues to watch as the silhouette disappears farther, with a calculating gaze to memorize all their features for... future references.

After he made sure it wasn't a thief that bumped to him to pickpocket, he immediately moves on without another thought.

"Ah, you're the one from the marketplace yesterday." In all honesty, your second meeting was quicker to come than he expected, and at the most curious location of all places. In the Knights of Favonius HQ. How had he not heard or seen of you before?

Your shoulders tense at the sound before you even closed the door of which you came from. This was a room he's never seen anyone use, he realized. Was this where you've been residing all this time? What an oversight on his part but it seems that you two share the common practice of barely leaving your quarters.

When you turned around, behind those surprised eyes lies a gentleness of relief he has not seen a mixture of in the ones he'd observed before. "O-Oh, Chief Alchemist! I'm really sorry about that, I was- I'm really sorry!" He hums in contemplation before shaking his head, assuring you it was a matter that caused no harm.

There was more to it, but his thoughts are distracted with his current task at hand, and with a short goodbye he made his way out down the hall where the stairs resides.

His heavy boots clap on the carpeted floor...

Paired with shuffling light ones to try and match his stride.

Huh? "Are you perhaps going outside?" He confirms with a soft yes as he continues his walk. What are you implying? "Is it okay if I join your company? I uhm also need to get some stuff from outside." He just nods, not one for small talk or questioning. It's nothing much to think about really—

Your loose and subtle grip around the chains hanging by his coat seem to ground him from his musings as you two traverse through Mondstadt in a normal gait. He tries not to think about it too much, but the way you look around with unease when you near other people or your desperate strides to stay a respectable distance to him were things he observed during the walk. Albedo was no man of science focusing on human personality and it bothers him.

It was like a game of cat and mouse between you two running errands, he'll detour to the side and you'll follow him, and if you need to drop by to a building then he'll have to follow you.

And he doesn't know why. Is it because of his mannerism towards taking care of Klee? Or his feeling of responsibility for bringing you along?

During this whole ordeal the Chief Alchemist has brought himself a bright idea (it is not) and went into his scientific mode. He watches you talk to one of the citizens about a commission you had finished yesterday and after confirming your undivided attention, he quietly slips away from the area to visit the Alchemy stall where Timaeus would surely be working on.

It took about an hour before he was allowed to use the table, because Timaeus took so long working on his forgery. Goodness that man needs to work on his studies more.

Ah, speaking of— Albedo realized he'd just up and left you for an hour. Without a second thought he retraced his steps to where he had last seen you. Surely you would have gone off to do your own thing, probably finished up your errands by now and had gone back to the Knights headquarters.

An unmoving force made him tumble forward as his coat seemed to have been caught. If you were there, it would be a sight to see, a rare moment of the Kreideprinz so uncomposed and shocked as he catches himself with a sputter. What the hell? His head snaps to look over his shoulder at such incredible speed, you'd thought it really would have snapped—

The clutch on his chain accessory tightens. With your head down low he couldn't see what expression you were, but your tense shoulders shake with a tremor similar to that of an on-going earthquake. His guilt was more obvious as your knuckles turn white from the deadly grip.

"Albedo-!" You exclaimed in what seems to be a cross between a whine and a whimper. "You disappeared, I couldn't- I couldn't leave..."

He hides a sigh as you refuse to look up to show your face. And in a comforting manner he has 'mastered' with a certain someone, he gently pries off your tight grip (with some urging pats to get you to loosen) before interlocking your fingers with his gloved ones. And he smiles as genuinely as he can, "I'm sorry, I won't do it again. Are you done here? It's almost night, we should get moving."

Your nod of agreement was a breath of fresh air to him.

▰▱▰▱▰▱▰▱▰▱▰▱▰▱

Days after that were pretty much as uneventful as uneventful it could be for Albedo's lifestyle.

Holed up in his laboratory for days without rest like the madman he is. Master's alembic and grounds of scarlet quartz able to keep his mind occupied to not wonder. Hyperfocused, no one has seen him out, only Sucrose dropping by with an 'assistant pass' despite the experiment on-going sign hanging by his doorknob.

When he finally stepped out to the hallway, three days already passed. The door behind him clicks as it locks, a sound that echoed with the door four rooms apart to his.

Kaeya looks up from your doorknob when he noticed the approaching silhouette. "Oh, Chief Alchemist? Finally came out of your cave." He quipped as he leans his shoulder against your room's door, visible eyebrow raising slightly after noticing the fleeting gaze Albedo passed at the door.

"Cavalry Captain, good evening. What were you doing there?" Straight to the point.

The taller man's eyebrow rose higher before he composed his amusement. "I didn't expect you to be into rumors, Albedo." The Alchemist's brows furrows in response. "No harm done, worry not. I just accompanied them on their trip outside before retreating for the night."

Humming to himself, Albedo's eyes wonder back to your doorknob before it was protectively shielded by the man's... white fur cloak?

"I also heard you left them alone when you two were out. I didn't expect you to be such a cruel man, amping up their fear after the progress they've made." Fear? Progress? More questions swirled within the genius' mind the more he talked with this.

Kaeya had noticed his faraway look and pieced together the context. Finally, he offered to explain the background of the issue and Albedo was ecstatic to listen in, a first with the blunette.

"Do you understand it now?"

"Mhm."

"Then I'll leave them to your care, I'm sure your genius mind can come up with something."

"Huh?"

And thus you find yourself standing at the bottom steps of the Ordo Favonius HQ the next morning, hand in hand with the Chief Alchemist you've last seen four days ago. Doesn't he have better things to do? No, he reasoned the solution he worked on will take two days to formulate the desired sediment, and so he has that timeframe free for the taking.

You would have been confused and wary he'd abandon you again—

Were you not forced to listen to the two dummies talk about YOU right outside your ROOM.

"You uhm, you don't have to hold my hand during this whole trip, Master Albedo."

"Albedo." He corrected. "And this is necessary, much more convenient and predictable than pulling on my chains really." A touch of a blush framed your cheeks with embarrassment.

"I have nothing in my itinerary today, so feel free to tug me along. It is, after all, the most I can do for what happened."

Despite the rough texture from the long use, the leathered hand in yours brought about more comfort than you would have thought.

Bonus:

The solar isotoma sparkled in pure golden beauty in front of you, but it didn't prevent the anxiety bubbling inside as you watch Albedo hop over the ledge with the help of his geo construct. "What- what are you doing?"

"Experiment. I'll be up in the roof looking over you so you'll know I'm still here, if it makes a difference if your company is far from arms length or not." He replied as he casually hopped over to the roof of a housing unit.

"Albedooo!"

I didn't get to capture all the aspects of the request that I wanted to focus on ahhhhh, I got so conscious of the length I had to stop it! Still ack I hope I captured his personality and context well— and I'm sorry if I amped up the fear more than you gave, I'm not really sure how bad it was supposed to be skskskks

But hey, this being the last Albedo req in my inbox, I am now free from this man *happy sigh* //:Albedo smut leading the leaderboard for the followers event looms over from behind:// *sweats*

[missfangirll]

If im not too late, I'd request anything for Beiyuan/Wu Xi. There are so few works out there for them :c

So, I wanted to write some XiYuan fluff and somehow ended up writing Dad!Beiyuan bonding with Chengling, Beiyuan thirsting after his husband and a sort-of-fix-it for WoH episode 36?? 😅

The plot follows the show, after episode 36, but their shared past in the novel (Qi Ye) did happen, if that makes sense? 😅 Sorry for the confusion.. The title is a Chinese poem called 蝶恋花 by Liu Yong.

Anyway, here's some XiYuan fluff/dad!Beiyuan/WoH fix-it? 😂😂

- - - - -

Fandom: Qi Ye, Word of Honor Rating: General Relationship: Wu Xi/Jing Beiyuan, Jing Beiyuan & Zhang Chengling Tags: Fluff, Bonding, Beiyuan thirsting after his husband, Fix-it of sorts Words: 2565 Summary: In an inn, Jing Beiyuan and Wu Xi, together with Zhang Chengling, await the return of Zhou Zishu and Wen Kexing, who have run off to die on a mountain. Beiyuan has to care for Zishu's disciple, while being distracted by his husband.

Read on AO3

- - - - -

Butterflies in Love with Flowers

Jing Beiyuan has plenty of practice waiting.

He has waited for sixty years at the Three-Life Stone, has waited for Helian Yi for six lifetimes. Has waited in the Imperial City for his schemes and machinations to bear fruit, has waited for Wu Xi. He has plenty of practice.

Which doesn’t mean, however, that he is a patient man.

Jing Beiyuan paces the inn room he shares with his husband, deliberately walking closely past Wu Xi who is sitting cross-legged at the low table reading, looking entirely unperturbed. Much to Jing Beiyuan’s dismay, that is to say, so he brushes Wu Xi’s back with the seam of his sleeve every time he walks by.

Wu Xi doesn’t react for a while, but after the sixth turn, without saying a word, he casually grabs Jing Beiyuan’s sleeve and, turning slightly, pulls him down in his lap, effectively trapping him there with both arms tightly around him.

Jing Beiyuan is a lot of things, but he's not an idiot, and he would never let an opportunity pass to cuddle his husband. With a deep sigh, he settles into the other’s embrace, leaning his head on Wu Xi’s broad chest.

“I am worried,” he admits eventually.

Stroking his hair soothingly, Wu Xi just hums in quiet understanding.

"I'm worried about the two idiots on the mountain," he adds, as if that wasn't obvious, and Wu Xi, as expected, doesn't reply. Jing Beiyuan continues, unbothered by his husband's lack of reaction. "I keep telling the little idiot," here he pauses to marvel at the fact that he distinguishes his companions merely by the grade of their idiocy, then sighs inwardly, "that his shifu and shishu are fine, that he should focus on his training in order to have something to show his shifu upon his return, but sometimes I…." He trails off, snuggling closer into the other's neck.

Zhang Chengling isn't coping well with the fact that both his mentors left with the intention to die on that mountain, albeit with different purposes in mind, and Jing Beiyuan has had to forcefully stop him from climbing that mountain himself, twice by now. For now he seems to have begrudgingly accepted his fate, although Jing Beiyuan can see his outbursts of anger for the fear they are.

He inhales deeply, willing his thoughts to calm down. All they have to do now is wait, wait for Zishu and his little maniac to return safely, and return they will, he has no doubts about it. He can’t, for Chengling’s sake.

A knock on the door interrupts the silent moment and with a groan, Jing Beiyuan clambers out of his husband’s lap to open the door, while said husband reaches for his abandoned book. The elderly innkeeper in front of him doesn’t spare a glance at Jing Beiyuan’s slightly ruffled hair, fiddling with the cap in his hands. At the other’s raised eyebrow, he bows so deep his forehead seems to touch his knees, and Jing Beiyuan has to bite back a grin.

“Yes?”, he asks magnanimously. The man shifts uncomfortably. “Your highness,” he begins, but Jing Beiyuan interrupts him with a hand on his shoulder. “I am certainly not worthy of such a noble title, my good man, just call me Lord Seventh, and speak freely. What bothers you?”

The other man bows again, not as low as before, but it still looks uncomfortable. “Your lordship,” he begins, and Jing Beiyuan sighs, hearing a slight huff of laughter from behind. Wu Xi knows of his resentment against his past life and the decorum it entailed. “Your lordship,” the man repeats, sounding increasingly desperate. “Your, umm.. The young master… He… The courtyard…” He doesn’t finish his sentence, but Jing Beiyuan has a vague idea of what he is trying to say, so he just nods and breezes past the innkeeper, who hastily shuts the door and scrambles to follow him.

From the inn’s inner courtyard he can already hear a dull thudding noise that grows louder as he approaches. In the yard, next to a small wooden shack, he finds the source of the noise: Zhang Chengling, gracelessly hitting the timber wall with a training sword, his face and back sweaty, his hair in disarray, his mouth a thin line. Jing Beiyuan nods to the innkeeper, who retreats to another building, then slowly approaches the boy, keeping his distance from the sword. Leaning on the wooden wall, he stays silent, observing Zishu’s disciple. The boy has grown a finger’s breadth over the last weeks, his body starting to stretch, his face about to lose the softness of childhood. He has seen a lot these past months, Jing Beiyuan muses, and feels infinite fondness for the little idiot.

Zhang Chengling has seen him, of course, but doesn’t make any move to stop his grim assault on the shack, so Jing Beiyuan says after a while, “You might want to use a real sword when you intend to put a hole in that thing.” His teasing doesn’t gain a reaction, however, the boy still hacking away at the wood. “Chengling,” he says after a while, softly, gently, “they will return.”

“I know,” comes the strained reply, but the beating doesn’t stop. The hits seem to grow less forceful, though, and Jing Beiyuan inches closer. “If Tian Chuang had succeeded,” he adds quietly, “we would know.” He looks directly at Chengling who stubbornly avoids his gaze, but his movements slow further, until he swings the sword like a flag bearer his banner in a parade. Jing Beiyuan carefully closes the distance, intercepting the last swing with his hand, gripping the wooden sword. He notices its shaking, and it’s only a heartbeat before Chengling collapses into his arms, letting go of the sword and wrapping both arms around him in a desperate embrace. Jing Beiyuan lowers the sword, then enfolds the boy in his arms, a hand on the back of his head, and lets him sob quietly into his shoulder.

“I miss them,” the boy snuffles into his robes, his face hidden. “Sometimes I dream about them, dead and cold, buried under all that snow and I…” He hiccups, then starts sobbing again. Jing Beiyuan breathes slowly. A few days after Zishu, and then the Ghost Valley Master, ascended the mountain, there had been news of an immense avalanche that had buried a large group of people, presumably the joined forces of the Window of Heaven and the Scorpion King. But nothing had reached them since, and all of them had grown restless, even Wu Xi, even though he would never admit to it.

A hand on the boy’s back, Jing Beiyuan rubs soothing circles. “Come with me,” he says at last, “Let’s go inside and have some tea, hm?” A nod, then Chengling takes a step back, sheepishly rubbing his red eyes. “‘m sorry,” he mumbles, but Jing Beiyuan just huffs. “Never be sorry for how you feel,” he admonishes gently, putting an arm around the boy’s shoulder, subtly scooping the wooden sword up with the other hand. “Let’s have some tea and sweets, what do you say?” Chengling sniffs again, then says with the hint of a smile, “Didn’t the Great Shaman explicitly forbid us to eat sweets before dinner?” Jing Beiyuan makes a carefree gesture, then, lowering his voice, adds in a conspiratorial tone, “We have to hide it, then,” which finally makes Chengling laugh. A lighter air around them, they stroll back to the room. (Wu Xi gives them a stern look as Jing Beiyuan retrieves a bag of sweets from his sleeve, but says nothing when they share some over tea, which Jing Beiyuan secretly finds endlessly endearing.)

⚘⚘

The next morning finds Jing Beiyuan on a bench in that same courtyard, at the other side this time, half hidden under a canopy hung with ivy. In the middle of the courtyard, illuminated by the rising sun, Wu Xi is practicing his martial arts.

Jing Beiyuan admires everything about his little venom. His honesty, his loyalty, his unrestrained emotions, but watching the other train always leaves him breathless and with a dry mouth. Wu Xi, in his usual black robes, is a sight to behold: Even under layers of cloth his broad shoulders are visible, his long black braids with the silver hairpiece, the moon mirrored in a clear lake at night. Wu Xi in his robes is a force to be reckoned with. Wu Xi without his robes, in just some black pants, is… Well. Enticing enough to make Jing Beiyuan leave the bed before sunrise and watch him train, even after being together for years and having seen his husband naked plenty of times. Still, watching him move through the forms is different. His skin glistens with sweat, making the light catch on his collarbones, his abs. His movements show a raw power, a graceful intensity that always reminds Jing Beiyuan of a large tiger. He moves silently, with deadly precision, as if he wanted to sneak up on a hidden assassin. He doesn’t use a weapon, but Jing Beiyuan knows how strong he is, how fast, and is pretty sure that a sword would only slow him down.

Distractedly petting the sable that is curled contentedly in his lap, Jing Beiyuan marvels at his husband, until Wu Xi ends his performance with a graceful vault, landing on his hands and feet like a large cat. His hair, tied back only with a simple black leather cord, falls over his face with the movement, his eyes like glimmering coals behind the black curtain. It reminds Jing Beiyuan of their early days, of the time Wu Xi wore a veil, and he himself a mask of another kind. Trying to hide the slight shiver, he smiles at his sweaty husband who now approaches him. Before he can say anything, Wu Xi steps between his knees, carefully scooping up the sable, then reaching down to cup the nape of Jing Beiyuan’s neck. With a hint of restrained power, he pulls him up and into a searing kiss. Smiling against his lips, Wu Xi whispers, “Room,” and Jing Beiyuan lets himself be pulled.

It’s still early enough in the morning that they don’t have to be overly cautious, so when they shed their respective robes - and pets, Wu Xi’s tiny green snake gets set in its cage, while the sable leaps nimbly away from the commotion - Jing Beiyuan can’t suppress a giggle at his husband’s eagerness.

“What brought this on?”, he asks, a little breathless, as the other’s teeth close over his pulse point. Wu Xi stills for a heartbeat, then bites down harder, licking over the spot, which elicits a shiver.

“You,” is the answer, and Jing Beiyuan pulls away a fraction to look at his husband with a raised eyebrow. “I can’t remember doing anything out of the ordinary,” he smirks, “whereas you were--”

“You watched,” Wu Xi breathes into his neck, leaning back in. With another giggle, Jing Beiyuan lets himself be pulled to the bed.

Later, when they lay under scrunched up covers, sated and sweaty and content, Jing Beiyuan nuzzles into Wu Xi’s chest, inhaling his sharp scent.

“Would you do that,” he asks eventually, his voice quiet. “Sacrifice your life, I mean. For me.”

“Yes,” is all Wu Xi answers, firm and without hesitation. “I would. I will. Everything.” His arms tighten around Jing Beiyuan. After a long silence, the latter says softly, “But what if I didn’t want that?” He turns slightly to look up. “What if I didn’t want a life that’s bought with yours?”

Wu Xi doesn’t meet his gaze as he replies, “I still would. I couldn’t bear the thought of being without you, Beiyuan. I’m a coward, but I couldn’t. I thought I’d lost you once, and I..” His voice breaks, and Jing Beiyuan reaches up to cup his face. “You’re not. I would like to say that I would react differently, but…” He shrugs with a wry smile. “I wouldn’t. If I could save your life by giving up mine, I would. I would, and then wait for you again at the Three-Life Stone, until you came to meet me. And maybe this time, you would be the one with white hair.” Snuggling closer, he trails a finger over the other’s chest, then places his hand on his sternum, feeling the unrestrained energy underneath. Wu Xi turns his head, then cups Jing Beiyuan’s cheek, meeting him in a slow, languid kiss.

“I love you,” he breathes against the other’s lips, “I have loved you for all your lifetimes and I will continue to love you in all that follow. Where you go, I’m going, Beiyuan.”

⚘⚘

It takes almost another month until Zishu and his little-, no, his giant idiot return. On a sunny afternoon, as if they had just been out for a stroll, they saunter casually into the inn’s dining room, and Jing Beiyuan almost drops his teacup, staring in disbelief. Before he can say anything, Zishu grins - he grins! - at him and plops down into the bench opposite him, Wen Kexing at his side. Jing Beiyuan notices in utter shock that the latter’s hair has gone completely white.

“Wha--,” he starts, but now the waiter has spotted them, hurrying over. Giving their, admittedly quite ragged, appearance a cautious once-over, he clears his throat, but Jing Beiyuan hurries to assuage him. “Whatever these gentlemen desire to eat,” he declares, probably with more grandeur than necessary, “they will receive.” The waiter hurries to nod his head like a turtle, but Zishu just shakes his head. “Just cold water,” he says, much to Jing Beiyuan’s and the waiter’s astonishment, but the latter immediately scrambles off to bring them their order.

Jing Beiyuan looks scrutinizingly at both of them, then says slowly, “Welcome back.” Zishu nods solemnly, taking Wen Kexing’s hand under the table. “Sorry it took so long,” he says quietly. Jing Beiyuan snorts. “You don’t have to apologise to me,” he gestures into the general direction of the inner courtyard, “but to your silly little disciple.” Zishu at least has the decency to flinch, looking uncomfortable. But it is Wen Kexing who speaks first. “How is he?”, he asks, and Jing Beiyuan notices the cautious fondness in his voice. Shrugging, he admits, “There are good days and bad.” After a pause, he adds, more quietly, “And good nights and bad.” Zishu nods, as if in agreement, and Jing Beiyuan’s curiosity wins over. “What happened?”, he asks animatedly, gesturing to the state of their robes, then Wen Kexing’s hair. “You were gone almost two months, and--”

Zishu interrupts him, sounding incredulous. “Two months?” He casts an uncertain glance at his companion who looks equally stunned. “Oh.” Inhaling slowly, he adds, “Well, I’d prefer to tell the story only once, so where is that useless disciple of mine?” Grinning, Jing Beiyuan gestures again to the inner courtyard. “Training.” Zishu gives him a skeptical look, then gets to his feet. Ignoring the waiter who just arrived with their order, he heads for the inner courtyard. Jing Beiyuan tilts his head a fraction, looking at Wen Kexing, both smiling slightly. Then, from outside, “SHIFU!”, and a dull thud, followed by another muffled “Shishu!”.

Smiling into his teacup, Jing Beiyuan closes his eyes. Some stories seem to have a happy ending after all.

[nekowriteshaikyuu]

Touch starved

its not fair they can feel your touch but i can’t

pairing : sakusa x reader

warnings : fluff, manga spoilers (for those who have not read it)

Summary : though he knows you respect him for his lack of affection, he can’t help but get jealous how you mingle around atsumu

a/n : hello anon  ! im so sorry for the late respond, but i hope this is good enough :))  hope you enjoy !!

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ sakusa kiyoomi ♥

being with your lovely sakusa of 3 years, you’ve already gotten used to the lack of affection in your relationship because of his fear with germs. you’re one to enjoy a lot of hugs and cuddles but you’ve endured it to respect sakusa’s issue he’s facing and he is very much appreciated that you did. he does feel slightly guilty for not showering you with love but the best he could give was ‘take care’ or ‘stay safe’ messages which still manage to make your heart skip a beat.

~

it was practice for the msby black jackals team and you were there to give some moral support to your boyfriend whilst killing time. you mingled around the area, admiring the lights reflecting from the floor and the net set up high and above your height. you picked up a ball from the basket, and in an attempt to follow sakusa’s movements like you saw on tv, you hit the ball across the net only to feel a stinging pain in your wrist.

“looks like someone’s trying to impress their boyfriend~” you heard someone cooed from behind. turning around, you spotted atsumu, taking off his jacket and plopping it to the bench with his bag beside it. he made his way to you, stretching his arms and cracking his knuckles.

“atsumu ! could you teach me some volleyball tricks ? i’m kinda rusty in it.” you begged, intertwining both your hands together. you heard the door bust open again, and there walked in bokuto and hinata, their loud voices echoing the whole gymnasium. 

“oh! y/n, you’re here !!” hinata jumps as he spotted you from his area. he and bokuto quickly set his things down before running up to you, joining in the commotion you had with atsumu. there, you asked the three of them to teach you some volleyball tricks. they happily agreed, snatching the ball from you and running into position. Atsumu was beside to guide you throughout while hinata and bokuto were on the other side of the net.

the four of you began to play, you hitting the volleyball across the net, only for hinata to move quickly to pick the ball right back into the air. you had so much fun, partnering with atsumu who there guiding and saving the ball for you. you were so engrossed in the game you didn’t notice sakusa walking in the gym. he didn’t take much notice either until he heard your giggle echoed in every corner of the gym. he looked up, only to see you passing the ball to atsumu, before him slamming it down to the ground in bokuto and hinata’s side. you both cheered, high-fiving each other. 

sakusa couldn’t peel his eyes away from you all of a sudden. he felt anger boiling up in his body. what is this? he just stood there quietly, observing every move, every interaction you had with atsumu. the feeling inside him just gets worse and worse. is this..what you call jealousy? no, it can’t be. what for is he jealous?  it wasn’t really obvious until what he saw widened his eyes.

from where you were,vatsumu was lifting you up, twirling you around in his grip as you giggle wholeheartedly, your smile bigger than ever. when he put you down, he hanged his arm around your shoulder, his laughs overlapping yours. sakusa flinched slightly from the sight. he felt unfair. despite you being with him, why is atsumu getting to feel your touch more than him ? it was pretty obvious he was jealous. he scoffed under his breath, peeling his mask off his face, keeping it in the zip lock bag. he pulled out his towel, his grip tightening up as he attempt to get rid of the thought away from his head. he can’t get over it. he wants your touch too. he wants to be able to twirl you around like how atsumu did, hearing your laugh emitting in the air. he wants to hug you, his body pressing against yours. he wants it everything, all to himself.

it wasn’t long before you spot your boyfriend from afar. you broke the contact with atsumu, running to your boyfriend before greeting him with a big smile.

“oomi-kun !” you greeted, keeping a slight distance away from him. he noticed it, which in usual he wouldn’t mind but at that time he was upset. no, come closer. everytime he takes a step forward, you took a step back, still keeping a distance from him. closer. he tried to reach out to you, only for you to dodge it away. out of jealousy, he quickly grabbed your arm, pulling you closer to him, both your noses touching. you weeped from his sudden action, his eyes staring deep into yours. you tried to pull away to avoid making sakusa uncomfortable but to no avail.

“sorry oomi-kun, i think i’m too close-”

“why are you not hugging me ?” he caught you off guard. hug..him? you tilt your head slightly, unable to process the situation. you let out an quiet giggle, pairing with an awkward smile.

“but i thought you don’t like me being too clo-” he didn’t give you another second to finish your sentence before you felt his arms wrapping around your waist, his head resting on your shoulder. your heart was racing. after 3 years of dating, it was the very first time sakusa was touch starved. you had shown a few signs throughout your relationship, sometimes attempting to wrap your hands around his arm, only for him to pull away and pocketing his hands. but it was a surprise for him to suddenly make the first step to come closer and hug you.

you stood there, not uttering a word before loosening up your tensed body, stroking his soft curled hair. you felt a sigh leaving from sakusa’s mouth, before him rubbing his head deeper in the crook of your neck, his fingers digging into your waist.

“awee, looks like our dear oomi-oomi is touch starved~” atsumu teased from behind, curling his fingers to form a heart. sakusa raised up his head, before pulling you close to his chest. he glared down to atsumu, who was now being regretting all life choices. 

“don’t you ever, ever,,touch y/n again.” sakusa hold you close to him, his hand on your head while the other resting on your waist. atsumu only let out a sloppy smile before slowly nodding, whistling as he slowly walk away from the both of you to continue practicing alone as if nothing happend

sakusa let go of his grip from you, and you felt your cheeks warmed up after being so close to his chest. you covered them with your hands, only for him to grab your wrists and take it off . he began planting kisses in both your red cheeks then to the tip of your nose, still keeping a straight face on.

“don’t hug anyone anymore..but me” you were fast to react before wrapping your arms back to sakusa, giggling away as he smiles and caress your hair. atsumu only watched from afar, shaking his head on how sakusa was slow to open up to you.

“bokuto-san...what’s..touch-starve?” hinata poked bokuto’s tough biceps, his eyes never left the whole scene that happend infront of them.

“i’m guessing they get hungry if they touch...” bokuto replied, clearly as clueless as hinata was.

------𝕤𝕒𝕜𝕦𝕤𝕒 𝕜𝕚𝕪𝕠𝕠𝕞𝕚------

a/n : finally i have a week break from school T^T. but right after it ends, its all exams hhhh the month is going wayy to fast help.  hope this was okay anon !! honestly it was such a cute request, didn’t even thought of this. X33

[writing-gifts]

here’s the 6th part of the incubus!doppio AU!

im gonna start posting this on ao3 too (with some editing in the earlier chapters so you can check that out if you wanna)

list of parts

@wasabi-mommy @mistabrainr0t @the-average-mastermind

--------

“OW! What the hell--why’d you bite me so hard for!?”

You try to move your leg but Mutton blocks your way. Letting out a sigh, you stand in place and look down at the cat.

“What? What is the problem?”

He moves behind you and presses his head against the back of your calf hard enough to affect your balance. When you move your leg forward to stop yourself from falling, Mutton walks towards the door.

“Do you want me to let you out? But you just got here.”

The cat looks at you for a moment before placing his front paws on the door and stretching upward towards the knob.

Shaking your head, you walk over to the door. “I’m gonna get that cat door for you one day, I swear.”

Once it’s open, Mutton quickly circles your legs and pushes his head against them like before.

“Okay, okay I’m going!”

You walk out and the feline takes a few steps towards the forest ahead before turning to look back. His multicolored eyes stay locked on yours and you purse your lips when you realize what he wants.

“I guess I'm following you….”

After locking and closing the door, you walk after the cat as he continues into the forest. You wonder what exactly he’s so desperate to show you. Was this even normal behavior for cats? You weren't sure but you did know that Mutton was a little more on the intelligent side. Sometimes you even felt like he could even understand you.

So you go along with it, following a distance behind through what seems like endless trees and brush and fanning random insects out of your face. Fortunately, the weather was cool enough that you weren't sweating too.

However, the longer you walk, the more you fear that you might be lost. Trying to find your way back on your own would definitely make it worse though.

Just when you think you need to take a break, a body of water appears in the distance through the opening of the trees. When you and Mutton finally exit the packed foliage, you see that you’ve been led to a lake sitting in a giant clearing in the forest.

You stare a bit amazed at the size and notice a cabin near it a distance away. Mutton doesn't stop long to let you marvel at the scene though and continues towards the lake. You catch up to him and the both of you walk alongside the water.

“So do you know the person in the cabin?” You assume that’s where you're headed.

You didn’t expect a response, but Mutton merps to acknowledge you. You hum and your gaze quickly finds itself back on the lake. It was vast, going on so far you could barely see where it ended. The sky and trees reflect on its surface clearly and the water’s so still you almost feel like you can jump into the clouds if you want to.

Once the two of you are closer, you see that the brick and wood cabin was partially sitting on the grassy land behind it and partially on the water. You had also underestimated the size. Perhaps more than one person lived here?

Mutton leads you around the side of the house and stops to sit next to the front door. He looks up at you expectedly so you reach out to knock.

Several seconds pass before you hear the door being unlocked and when it opens, a handsome man with a neat, dark bob is revealed.

Unsure of what to do, you give a quick greeting and go quiet afterward. You didn't plan what to say when the door was answered, you just knew Mutton wanted you to knock.

Said cat walks into view, rubbing against the man’s leg as he walks into the house.

At that moment, realization seems to cross the man's face and he smiles at you.

“You must be the neighbor,” he says.

“Neighbor?”

“The person who lives in the house outside the forest. I saw someone moved in but never came around to introduce myself.”

"Oh, I had no idea anyone lived out here."

"That’s pretty much the reason why I’m out here.” The man moves to make room so you can walk inside. “Would you like to come in?"

You're a little hesitant since you just met but Mutton had no issue with it apparently. And the cat had actively been prepared to attack Diavolo for you on multiple occasions.

The moment you pass the threshold, you’re instantly awed. When you thought of cabins, simple and small came to mind. This one was neatly organized but it didn't give the homely vibe you’d expect.

The monochromatic room was spacious and decorated with nice looking furniture and curtains. The living area consisted of a fireplace surrounded by comfortable looking couches, and the stone wall above it held shelves that were crammed full of old looking books, various expensive looking decor and bottles. And to the right, closer to the back of the room sat a sizable dining set.

However what mostly grabs your eye is the fish tanks that were embedded in the walls throughout the room. At first you wonder why he had so many, but when you look closer you realize that they were not, in fact, separate tanks but a giant aquarium partially hidden within the walls.

Was the whole house like this? What type of cabin was this?

While you wonder where all the fish are, something twinkles in the corner of your eye. You turn to see what it is, but there’s nothing there.

So I'm imagining things now...

“--drink?”

You turn your attention to the man. "Sorry what was that?"

“I asked if you wanted anything to drink?”

You cross your arms and shake your head. “No I’m good…so do you know why Mutton led me here?”

The cat currently sits on the top of the back of one of the white couches.

“I actually needed to discuss something important with you, but I should introduce myself first. I'm Bruno Bucciarati--you can refer to me as either--and I'm a witch.”

You’re immediately skeptical. It wasn't unheard of, obviously, but you couldn't just believe whatever anyone told you. Bruno doesn’t look bothered by your dubiousness though.

“You're smart enough to not trust blindly. That’s good.” The man puts a finger to his chin. “You have a leaf on your shoulder.”

Before you can reach up to brush it off the man plucks it off you. Then just as quickly as he picked it off, the small green leaf begins to glow and transforms into a full flower.

You stare shocked trying to find any way to explain what you just saw. It was no trick of the eye either as the leaf’s form changed right before you into a completely different thing.

The man--no witch holds out the white rose and you gently take it.

“I--wow I just keep running into supernatural beings or something.”

"This forest does seem to attract them," he says.

Interesting…

You roll the flower stem between your fingers. “I’m ____ by the way.Uh, I don't know if you call him Mutton too--" You tilt your head in the direction of the feline. “--but is he your familiar or something?”

“No, he’s just a cat that likes to wander the forest. However, my familiar's over there though if you’re interested."

You get closer to the tank the witch pointed out to observe and even though you weren't exactly showing it, you were actually really excited and interested by the fact that you just met a witch.

At first you don't see anything in the huge tank other than greenery and a rocky cave ornament in the corner. But then something pops its head out of the opening. An eel that also managed to match the color scheme of the room. It was mostly white and covered in black patterns with yellow sprinkled in. It comes out of its hiding spot and swims back and forth as if it were stretching out it’s long body. Then it turns to you when it realizes that you're intently watching through the glass.

Your smile at it’s somewhat funny face and tilt your head a bit. The eel responds by tilting its own head, as if curious by your action.

"Holy crap. This is actually pretty cool! Do they talk?" you ask.

“Not really.” Bruno's smile falters. “But surprisingly Mutton does.”

“Huh?” You snicker a bit thinking the witch is joking but see that there’s no sign that he is on his face.

You look over at the cat and he stares back unblinking before glancing at Bruno.

"....I thought we weren't going to tell them."

Your heart almost jumps into your throat. “W-What?”

Bruno hums. “I thought about it and decided there's no point keeping it secret any longer. The incubus already knows. So it would only be a matter of time before he said something."

You're still reeling from Mutton talking that you almost missed what Bruno said.

“Hold on...Wait. Incubus? Are you talking about Doppio?” you ask the witch.

“Yes.”

You squint confused. “He knew and he didn't say anything? How long ago did he find out?"

"About a week," Mutton says.

"It might have benefited him in some way but I'm not sure why he didn't say anything," Bruno adds.

You exhale, somehow already on the verge of irritation with...everyone. Doppio was usually open with you, but apparently he thought this was a good thing not to mention.

You stare at Mutton who looks at you like he usually did, as if this weren’t an issue. But that was far from the case for you. It wasn't explicitly said but you were sure he told Bruno things about you, and it left you disturbed.

“...Well is there anything else I should know about Mutton?”

"Well his name's not actually Mutton," Bruno says.

"It's Leone Abbacchio, but you can call me Abbacchio."

You grimace from the human sounding voice coming from the cat you had been cuddling practically since...since you moved here!

“Okay Abbacchio, I don't really want you snooping around my house anymore--

“That can be arranged,” Bruno interrupts. “Once we ‘exorcise’ that demon constantly visiting you.”

Your already furrowed brow deepens. Doppio wasn't possessing anything though. You weren't even sure he was capable of that.

“No, I don't want that!”

"Listen, it might seem like Doppio is harmless, but things can become dangerous if he grows too serious of an attachment to you. And if it makes you feel better, we won’t need to hurt him if he leaves quietly."

You weren't exactly sure what the witch meant by "dangerous" but his serious tone managed to spark some anxiety within you.

"I mean it would be natural for Doppio to get upset if I suddenly wanted him gone."

"He's not just talking about being upset." Abbacchio says, annoyance in his tone. "Doppio could literally keep you against your will if he wanted and there would be no way for Bruno to reverse it."

"All demons are naturally envious creatures and the way things are going between you two, it’s only a matter of time. And this doesn't even take into account the other demon." Bruno says.

Diavolo aside, you couldn't bring yourself to see Doppio in that light.

"But--"

The front door slams open and the temperature in the room seems to drop.

Doppio stomps in, his face flushed. Once he sees you he seems to relax slightly but his expression is still irate.

“I finally found you!” he exclaims.

Bruno raises a brow and turns to Abbacchio.

The cat's ears fold back in frustration. "I was sure I lost him."

The incubus walks up to you, stopping too close and grabbing your shoulders harshly. “Are you okay?”

“Doppio you're gripping me too tightly.” You push off his hands and wrap your arms around yourself to shield your body from the sudden chill that seemed to appear. “I’m fine….But they're talking about you being able to keep me? What does that exactly mean?”

You wanted to hear an explanation from the incubus himself. You trusted him not to lie to your face if you asked him straight on.

However, Doppio reacts strangely, as if he's afraid. He makes some space between the two of you and struggles to look at you. You try to catch his gaze again but he refuses to keep eye contact.

"It's…" He strains his fingers. "Well, you see, incubi and succubi can form a….c-connection with a weaker being if they’re close enough. Then they could technically stay together forever."

Abbacchio grunts, "Way to sugar coat it--"

“I wouldn’t do that to you though ____! I didn't even consider it! U-Unless you wanted to it would never happen and I know that you like your space…”

The incubus is the most stressed you've seen him.

Even though you were still upset you didn't like seeing him like this, so in an attempt to ease him, you try to smile. Unfortunately, it comes off pretty strained.

You take a moment to mull over what he said though and come to a conclusion pretty quickly. "Even though that was kind of vague...I think I understand. And honestly, I can't see you forcing me into that."

You'd never seen a cat roll their eyes until now.

"Typical human. They're a lost cause Bruno. Let's leave them to do what they want," Abbacchio says before stretching and laying down.

The witch looks disapprovingly at the cat. "You know I can't do that. Perhaps they actually were charmed. I could--"

"Sir," you say to get his attention. "I appreciate your concern, but I trust Doppio and I'd prefer if you didn't get in between the two of us."

Having to tell your almost neighbor you just met to buzz off even in a polite way wasn't what you were expecting to do today.

Bruno doesn’t look upset though. He's quiet, studying you with an unreadable expression but then he nods.

"I'm having Leone check up on you. If anything seems off I'm getting involved."

Your brows furrow slightly. Didn't you just explicitly say you didn't want Abbacchio snooping around your home anymore?

You want to argue more but the witch didn't leave room in his statement to negotiate. And even though you hate to admit it, keeping the supernatural out of your home wasn't exactly your strong suit. It pissed you off but you couldnt do anything about it. So you give a curt nod and immediately walk to the exit with Doppio following closely behind.

Once outside, you follow the incubus through the forest. There's a long, awkward stretch of silence between you two though.

Doppio tries to sneakily glance at you, which you of course you notice but you choose to ignore it. However, after the 50th one he finally decides to say something.

"____?"

You sigh, "What?"

He slows to a stop to turn and look at you properly but, again, he has trouble keeping eye contact.

"Are you mad?"

Maybe at first but now it had changed to more of a disappointed feeling.

"Not necessarily but you knew about Mutt--Abbacchio and didn't say anything to me. So I'm not exactly happy right now."

"I didn't but--"

You shake your head. "No Doppio. I'm too tired right now to understand whatever weird logic you formed in your head."

His mouth closes and the hurt on his face instantly makes you regret your choice of words. Maybe you shouldn't have said it like that but you really didn't feel like listening to excuses right now.

You look away from Doppio. "Let's just go, please."

[fullmetalscullyy]

royai + “you make me feel safe, like im allowed to be anything i want” 👀

meg ur mind,, anyone want some young!royai 👀

thank you for the prompt friend i really appreciate it!! i hope you enjoy

for reference this is set after roy decodes the secrets of flame alchemy on her back

rated: g | words: 1913

“It’s a beautiful sunset,” Riza breathed.

Roy hummed in agreement, his fringe tickling his forehead as the breeze caught it. “It really is.”

It took every ounce of his power not to turn his head to look at her instead, finding her far more captivating in the light than the setting sun.

They were sitting on the porch step of her father’s house, looking out over the fields and beyond. In the evening breeze the growing wheat moved like water, swaying back and forth creating a sea of gold. In the distance they saw the doors of the neighbour’s barn close for the night, sealing the horses inside, safe and secure. The sky was burnt orange, the orb of the sun just kissing the horizon as it fell. As it lowered, so did the temperature by a fraction, but it wasn’t enough to cause any kind of proper discomfort.

A fleeting thought crossed Roy Mustang’s mind, that he could shuffle closer to his companion so they could keep each other warm. If he were at his own house back in Central he would have offered a blanket and draped it over her shoulders.

“I’ll miss sunsets like this back in Central.”

Regret flooded him, his face dropping when he saw Riza’s own smile fall from her face. Her head tipped forward to look down at her knees. On her neck, the top of her tattoo peeked out from her slightly too big, open collared shirt. The sight of it made Roy’s stomach twist. He’d spend weeks deciphering that monster, but time hadn’t made it any easier to look at.

“I’m sure you will,” Riza replied, her voice barely a mumble.

He cursed himself for removing that smile from her face.

“I’ll keep it with me, though,” he hastily added, “like I do with every moment I’ve spent here.”

His face turned crimson as his brain blurted out what he was thinking before his mouth could stop it.

Tentatively, Riza peeked out the side of her eye. Her fringe was half obscuring her vision, and Roy hoped and prayed she didn’t see how bad his embarrassment was. The smile she was fighting to keep off her face told him his wish had not been granted.

“Thank you, Mr. Mustang,” she replied sincerely.

He couldn’t be too annoyed at his inability to think before he spoke because it returned a pleased smile to her face after all.

“You’re welcome, Miss Hawkeye,” he managed to get out. “What will you do with yourself?”

A deep sigh heaved through her body, expanding her chest and back before exhaling quietly. “I don’t know.” Her eyes lifted to look out into the fields. The light accentuated the gold in her hair, but also the colour of her eyes. They looked amber in the fading sun. Beautiful.

“Anything I can do to help?”

“You’ve already done so much.”

“I could always do more. If you’d like me too, of course,” Roy offered. “Just let me know if you need anything.”

The look she was giving him… Her head cocked, her fringe falling to the side while she regarded him. It looked like she was smiling, but her expression was quizzical. Like one was trying to figure out an amusing puzzle.

“What?”

“Nothing,” she dismissed with a mysterious smile.

Roy blinked at her, trying to discern what that smile meant.

They returned to silence. Roy was still stumped by that look she’d given him. Settling back in his chair, he contemplated it further inside his mind, turning over the nuances of her tone and changes in expression.

“Thank you. For everything… Roy.”

His head snapped up at the use of his first name, returning him jarringly to the present. That tiny, appreciative smile was back, making his heart stutter twice in such a short space of time. The way his name had sounded coming from her… It was breathed, like it was a forbidden secret. Under the watchful eye of her father he’d always been Mr. Mustang. That title was sacred to him, because that was what Riza called him, and vice versa with her, for Miss Hawkeye. But… Hearing his first name spoken so openly after all this time…

He wanted to hear it again.

“You’ve done so much for me recently,” Riza continued, oblivious to how hard his heart was pounding inside his ribcage. “I can’t thank you enough.”

“Any time, Riza.”

The name was foreign on his tongue as he tested it out, but he enjoyed every moment. It felt like a step forward in a promising direction. Like the shackles her father had on her were finally lifted, letting her be free and grow into her own person, and not just his caretaker.

A flush covered her cheeks, making Roy wonder if it had anything to do with the use of her first name.

“What?” He wanted to prompt her, to find out if that was the reason for her cheeks prettily turning pink in the last light of the day.

“It’s nothing,” she stammered quietly. Shoulders bunched up to ears, chin tucking into her chest as she tried to hide from him.

“Riza, what is it?”

He had a habit of prodding too much. Riza Hawkeye was not one to be poked at and investigated, especially not by him. Whatever needed to be revealed would come in her own time and she would never be rushed. However, Roy’s eager inquisitive streak had gotten the best of him. He just hoped, in hindsight, he hadn’t made her retreat further from him, effectively ending their conversation completely.

With a breath held tightly inside his lungs, he observed her form as she shied away, hoping she would answer. Hoping he hadn’t pushed her too far into a corner.

“It’s been tough, but you being here through it all has helped a lot,” Riza murmured. Her shoulders relaxed and her head tilted, eyes catching onto movement on the path before them. A worm was making its way across the concrete, its movements slow and patient.

“It has?” Roy was bewildered. He didn’t think he’d helped that much. He’d just taken the secrets from her and imposed.

Riza nodded, her expression changing to assurance, moving away from idle contemplation. “It’s made me happy.”

Her reply, so simple and spoken as if it was the truth of the world, made colour rise up the young man’s cheeks.

“Roy?” Her inquisitive expression was wondering why he’d turned away from her so sharply. It was to hide his blush, but she didn’t need to know that.

Upon hearing her reasons, a warmth spread across his chest. It trickled down through his ribs and settled into his heart, burrowing in deep as something he would keep with him for the rest of his days.

He’d done that for her. She’d kindly opened up her home and her sanctuary to him. It had felt like all Roy had done recently was take and take. The feeling of being able to give something back in return was welcome. Not that Roy Mustang thought the indomitable Riza Hawkeye needed any kind of protection from the likes of him – the image of her rifle resting against the wall by her front door flashed into his mind – but it was… nice. He felt useful to her. And that was something he wanted to be.

“Sorry,” he mumbled, schooling his expression. He could blame the heat of the evening on the flush of his skin if she asked. “I’m glad I could make you h – happy.” He cursed himself for the sudden onset of a stutter.

“You do,” she replied confidently, turning back to look out over the fields. Her confidence dwindled slowly, turning timid as she opened her mouth to speak further. “You… make me feel safe.”

It was so quiet he had to strain and concentrate, but when the words sunk in Roy was afraid his heart had stopped beating. His head turned sharply to look at her, but she was looking back down at that worm, shoulders back up at her ears.

Well. Now it was going to be even harder to return to Central alone.

“I do?”

His question was stupid. His brain couldn’t comprehend anything else, so it left his lips with the same intonation as his feelings towards it. He wished he could form something more coherent for her in what felt like a pivotal moment of their evening. Riza was being open and sharing. It didn’t happen very often, so he should be cherishing this, not staring at her blankly in surprise.

“Yes,” she whispered shyly. “It was… hard. Not having Father here. Knowing he was really gone, and it was just me left.” Her voice had grown stronger, her shoulders peeling down from her ears one final time as she voiced her thoughts and well-hidden feelings. “Your assistance has reminded me that I’m more than just his daughter, the bearer of his secrets.”

Riza’s head turned. There was a fire in her eyes, a confidence, and Roy was trapped by it. Held steady by her determination.

“You make me feel safe,” she repeated slowly, testing out her wording while her cheeks became covered in a dusting of pink, “like I’m allowed to be anything I want. Sharing my burden with you was the best decision I’ve made,” she nodded, confirming it for herself.

“Oh, um.” Roy continued to stutter.

Expectantly, Riza had looked up at him but her head cocked as he sat there staring at her instead.

He didn’t have an answer for that. He didn’t know what to reply. If anything, that sentence made his yearning to stay even stronger. The dedication was on the tip of his tongue. Lips parted but no words left him, just a strangled sound.

“I’m sorry if that was too bold of me, Mr. Mustang,” she apologised, casting her gaze away from him. Retreating from him. The use of his title stung.

No! The voice in his head yelled the reply but it didn’t quite make its way out of his throat. She’d just bared her soul to him and all he could do was stare.

“No, no,” he reassured hastily, hands waving in front of him. Roy shifted on the step, moving closer. It caught her off guard, and Riza flinched in surprise. “No, not too bold at all,” he added. “Thank you. But I feel unworthy of such a praise from you.”

“Just…” Riza sighed as she looked into his eyes, suddenly very close. “Thank you,” she finished, completely sincere.

“Thank you in return, Riza.”

“What for?” Her brow creased in her confusion.

“For opening yourself up to me. With… your father’s work,” he gestured over her shoulder at her back, “and for just now.”

Tentatively, Roy reached out for her hand and placed his atop hers. A quiet gasp left her lips, making him smile.

“Thank you for trusting and believing in me,” he murmured.

“It’s an easy thing to do, I’ve realised.” Her admittance was shy, but her voice held strong in volume. She didn’t retreat away from him.

“I’m glad.” His smile almost split his face in two.

Both of them remained sitting there, looking up at the dark sky as they waited for the stars to come out to play. Their joined hands never parted, both of them shrouded underneath the warmth of a single blanket.

[lefaystrent]

In your Kid Logan AU do you think maybe one day Logan gets really like torn thinking there all going to leave him but Virgil finds out and like have a bonding moment??? Sorry im a sucker for platonic analogical

Pomp and Circumstance

Fandom: Thomas Sanders, Sanders Sides

Pairings: platonic LAMP,platonic analogical

Word Count: 1920

Masterlist Link

 _______________________________________________________________

It’s Spring and Patton isgraduating.

They all knew it would happen. Anobvious outcome. Why wouldn’t it happen? Logan didn’t meet Patton until hissenior year. The months in between then and now are not altogether infinitesimal.Logically, Logan knew this would happen.

But as Logan sits up in thebleachers of the auditorium, sandwiched in between Virgil and Roman, he findshimself frowning down at the sea of red-cloaked graduates in their seats downbelow, each one waiting for their name to be called.

Logan didn’t think he would behere. That’s it, isn’t it?

That first day, when Patton draggedhim across the lunch room to sit with his friends���Logan never imagined apossibility that it would lead him here, sitting in the crowd, supporting his friend.

What does Logan remember from hisown graduation? Hardly anything, if he’s being honest. The principal and valedictorianand whoever-else-just-had-to-say-a-speech droned on, and he had sat amongst hispeers tuning all of it out. He’d never been a fan of fanfare, and the ceremony hadnumbed his brain with boredom.

Pitiful, isn’t it? Logan had beenbored at his own graduation. What was there to get excited about? He had knownhe would get his diploma and go on to college. It had been an absolute. Whathad there been to celebrate then? His classmates’ success? Although he knewthem, he didn’t know them, so why should he care?

Practical, if not cold.

Logan watches as one-by-one thestudents walk up onto the stage when their name is called. Throughout the entireceremony, Patton has been looking up at them every couple of minutes, facebeaming and hand waving excitedly at them.

Logan wonders if he himself wouldhave been this excited if he had formed any lasting attachments in high school.His parents and grandfather had been amongst the audience that day, there tosupport him. They had been very proud, but that was his family and that hadbeen expected by that point too.

On either side of him, screamserupt. He startles, only to realize that Virgil and Roman had shot up to let loosea chorus of cheers.

Patton’s name had been called andhe almost missed it.

Logan stands as well, clapping andoffering what he can. Patton looks beyond joyous. He hops up the stage stepsand—rather than shake the principal’s hand—he outright hugs the man.

“Look at that dork,” Virgil snorts.

“He’s so happy,” Roman agrees.

“I think the principal is uncomfortable,”Logan comments.

“How much do you want to bet thatPatton’s doing that on purpose?” Virgil asks.

“Why would he do that on purpose?”

Virgil and Roman share a look overLogan. Logan huffs. This is all part of theirPatton-can-actually-be-really-passive-aggressive agenda.

“I just don’t see it.”

“That’s the point, Specs. He’s goodat it.”

Patton smiles a satisfied smile allthe way back to his seat. The principal straightens his jacket like he’s justbeen knocked over by an unruly dog.

“What do you think, Finding Emo?Should we do the same when we graduate?”

“Or we could accidentally push himoff the stage.”

“Virgil.”

“What? I said accidentally.”

The conversation continues, mostlycentering around how much they disliked the principal.

From down the rows of bleachers,Logan’s gaze drifts down to Patton’s family. His parents and all of his siblingsare in attendance.

Patton’s little brother is watchingLogan. He’s looking back over his shoulder, staring up at him. Dee’s expressionis blank, observing what Logan will do.

Logan turns away and listens to astory from Roman and Virgil’s freshman year when they got in trouble with theprincipal.

The ceremony drags on and eventuallycomes to an end. Everyone’s getting up from their seats and Logan doesn’t makea fuss when Roman steers him through the crowd.

“What? You’re so tiny. Don’t wantto lose you.”

“Figuratively bite me.”

Well, not much of a fuss anyway.

They go to wait out in the lobbyarea. So many people are coming and going and grouping off and taking picturesand smiling. Roman and Virgil are talking with some of their classmates, andLogan’s just …

He’s not contributing to theconversation anymore. Not that anybody is asking for his opinion on anything.He sees that his presence is inconsequential, so he doesn’t feel guilty forslipping away.

Logan heads outside. There’s morefamilies and graduates hanging around by the entrance. Logan steers clear ofthem and makes his way to Roman’s car. They’re all going out to eat afterwardsanyway. It’s not like Logan will miss anything.

Virgil finds him sitting againstthe back bumper. It can’t have been more than ten minutes.

“Found ya,” Virgil says.

“You were looking for me?”

Virgil shrugs. He plops down besideLogan. “Sorta? I’m not really a fan of crowds. Thought I’d might as well findwhere you snuck off to. So, two birds, one stone.”

“I see …”

The noise is not as oppressive outhere. People walk by and cars filter out, but it’s all in passing and gonebefore it’s really began.

Fleeting. It’s all so fleeting.

“Patton is … happy,” Loganobserves. It’s not anything new, merely a conversation opener. It’s not really hisstyle and Virgil knows it. He’s staring Logan down but Logan is busy watchingthe world pass them by.

“I’d be happy too. High school isjust a load of bullshit. Patton’s free now.”

“He still has college.”

“Yeah, but that’s better than highschool at least. Don’t have to deal with all the petty drama and stupid kidsand teachers who think they know everything.”

“There are also professors whothink they know everything, even when they clearly do not.”

“Touché,” Virgil acquiesces, notcommenting on how familiar Logan seems to be on the subject.

“How much longer do you think they’llbe?”

“Forever and a half. They’reprobably taking about a million pictures.”

“Unlikely. I’m sure their phones donot have that much memory storage.”

“You know, sometimes I think you takethings literally just to mess with me.”

“I have no idea what you mean.”

Virgil laughs and it’s a softcomfort.

Night had fallen a while ago. Beamsfrom headlights break through the shadows from time to time. Red-robed figuresare easy to pick out. One of those graduation gowns could belong to Patton, butfrom this distance it’s hard to tell.

“Lo … what’s wrong?”

“What makes you think something’swrong?”

Virgil levels a look at him. “Ialways think something’s wrong. And sometimes I’m even right about it.”

“And you think that this is one ofthose times?”

“I know that this is one ofthose times.”

“Irrefutable evidence, surely.”

“Is it Patton?”

Logan digs his fingers into the legsof his pants. It’s wrinkling the material. Logan hates wrinkled clothing, yethe’s doing it anyway.

“What makes you think my unconfirmed‘wrong state’ is caused by Patton?”

“You’re the one who brought him upfirst.”

“We are at his graduation.”

“Yeah, we are.”

“…”

“He’ll be moving away soon forcollege.”

“… yes, I know.”

“A whole four hours away. Notexactly a quick trip.”

“Yes Virgil, I know.”

“We can call him if we want, but I’msure he’s gonna be super busy with college stuff.”

“Yes, he will be.”

“And then even phone calls willprobably turn out to be too much effort. At some point we won’t even be talking.”

“Do you have a point to thisnegative ruminating?”

“It’s what you’re thinking, right?Patton’s going to move away soon, and we’ll still be here, and he’s going toforget about us.”

He’s not wrong. That surprisesLogan more than anything, mostly because Virgil has given words to a verycomplicated bundle of emotion that Logan has been struggling to unravel.

“How do you know that?” Logan asksquietly.

Virgil shifts, his forearms restingon his knees, fingers laced together. “Because I’ve been thinking it too.”

Oh.

Somehow, in all of Logan’spondering, he’s forgotten that Virgil and Roman have known Patton for manyyears more than he has. And that Virgil is prone to anxious thoughts. Thisshould have been expected.

Or perhaps not so expected. IfLogan is struggling to pinpoint his own emotional distress, he can be evenworse at times when it comes to other people’s emotions.

“You have Roman, at least,” Logansays. It’s an attempt at comfort, but the words are layered with a hard edge.

Oh, that’s jealousy right there.

Virgil’s brows furrow. “What do youmean? I’ve got you too, right?”

Logan tilts his head back, eyesroaming over the dark sky. There’s nothing but clouds. “Not for long. You andRoman won’t be long behind Patton, and then I’ll be …”

Here. Alone.

Funny how that’s never bothered himbefore.

Virgil groans loudly, making Loganjump in the relative quiet. He covers his face with his palms, pressing theheel of his hands over his eyes.

“Logan, do you really think we’regoing to forget about you or something?”

“Perhaps not forget, but it is entirelypossible that when encountering a new environment and workload that—”

“Nope, stop, don’t even finishthat.”

“But—”

“Seriously Lo, that’s not how it’sreally going to turn out. We’re not going to lose touch or anything.”

“But even you said—”

“I know what I said. I’m wrong a lotof the time. I might be worried about it, but I know Patton’s not goingto let us stop being friends. I mean, have you met the guy?”

“… perhaps once or twice.”

Virgil snorts and Logan feels alittle better for it. “Alright smartass. Just admit we’re both being dumb andthat the power of friendship or whatever will prevail.”

“The power of friendship?”

“Ugh, leave me alone, it’s probablywhat Patton or Roman would say. Just admit we’re dumb already.”

“I’m quite smart actually. Have youseen my GPA?”

“I hate you so much,” Virgil saysand Logan laughs.

Later, when much of the parking lothas emptied out, Roman and Patton find them.

“You guuuuys!” Patton yells,running up to them. His red cap is missing and Logan wonders if he’s alreadylost it. “Where were you? We were taking pictures!”

“Ew,” Virgil and Logan say at thesame time. They smile at each other.

“Not really my thing,” Virgil says.

“I’m not partial to them myself,”Logan agrees.

“And I’ve heard cameras steal yoursoul. Wouldn’t want my soul to get sucked out, if I have one.”

“Yes, that would be terrible.”

“You both are terrible,” Romaninterrupts. “And clearly you enable each other too much.”

“Look at Princey, pulling out thebig words.”

“From where did he pull them?”

“I would say ‘brain’, but the jury’sstill out on that one.”

Roman gasps in offense.

Logan watches them bicker, afondness overcoming him, syrupy sweet. He glances over to Patton who’s watchingthem with the same expression. He catches Logan’s gaze and smiles.

“One picture?” Patton pleads. “Justof the four of us? For me?”

Logan puts on a show of sighing. “IfI must, then so be it.”

“Yay!” Patton cheers and throws hisarms around Logan. “Thank you Logey-Wogey!”

Logan’s expression softens. “You’rewelcome … Patty-Watty.”

Patton’s excited screams can be heardall the way back to the auditorium.

________________________________________________________________

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[ladyideal]

This Is Us Part 5

Pairing: Legolas x OC!Reader

Word Count: 3003

Warnings: Nudity (but it ain’t sexy times.)

Summary: When the One Ring was found, it becomes a journey across Middle Earth to destroy it. Watch as the Fellowship is formed, and crossed the continent, where loyalty will be tested, and love will blossom at the most unexpected places.

A/n: A lot of dialogue, so bear with me here. Just want to get the group closer to one another. :)

Chapter 4 ~ Masterlist ~ Chapter 6

The Fellowship climbed a winding way among the great trees. They ascended the path until night fell. In the blue glow of a moonlit night, the Fellowship climbed a twisting stair about the trunk of a tree, past glimmering lights of silver and blue.

Far above, the silhouetted shapes of the shadowy tree-branches loomed over the group. Passing numerous platforms, the company came to a stop before a great palace in the trees, lit with silvery lights. A curving walkway laid before, leading up a low stair to an archway.

They gathered before the arch as Haldir stepped to a side. A glowing couple, hand in hand, descended down the stairs to meet the Fellowship. The Fellowship, other than you, the two Rangers and elves, stared in awe. Aragorn touched his head once in greeting.

The light dimmed, and before the Fellowship the Lord and Lady, Galadriel and Celeborn, halt. The Lady's eyes focused on Frodo first then to you, but Celeborn was the first that spoke.

"The Enemy knows you have entered here. What hope you had in secrecy is now gone. Eight there are here, yet nine there were, set out from Rivendell. Tell me, where is Gandalf?" Celeborn asked. "For I much desire to speak with him. I can no longer see him from afar."

As he spoke, Galadriel's eyes flickered to Alena's, who looked up.

"Gandalf the Grey did not pass the borders of this land. He has fallen into shadow," The Lady of Light answered her husband's question, which Alena nodded slightly. 

Celeborn turned to Galadriel in surprise. 

"He was taken by both Shadow and Flame: a Balrog of Morgoth. For we went needlessly into the net of Moria," Legolas shook his head sadly. 

"Needless were none of the deeds of Gandalf in life. We do not yet know his whole purpose," Galadriel continued, focusing on Gimli when the dwarf sadly bowed his head. "Do not let the great emptiness of Khazad-dûm fill your heart, Gimli, son of Glóin. For the world has grown full of peril. And in all lands, love is now mingled with grief."

You looked away from the pair to study the trees around you. Anything to forget about Gandalf's death. You weren't the only one, as out of the corner of your eye, you watched as Boromir turned his pained face to the Lady, blinking and swallowing hard. 

The Lady stared back. 

After a moment, Boromir broke the gaze, weeping to the side.

"What now becomes of this Fellowship? Without Gandalf, hope is lost." The Lord of Lothlorien turned to his wife. 

""The quest stands upon the edge of a knife. Stray but a little and it will fail to the ruin of all." Galadriel smiled softly, now turning back to you. 

"Yet hope remains while the company is true."

As if by a mysterious force, you looked back up at her. 

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Go now and rest for you are weary with sorrow and much toil. Tonight you will sleep in peace."

With that, the Fellowship accepted the offer wearily. The nights in Moria were long and uncertain. All the while, the maiar's death was fresh, and weighed heavily on everyone's mind. You lagged behind as Alena and Haldir took up the front, leading towards a temporary shelter.

"Y/N, Keeper of the Winds and the Stars, child of the Highest Valars," Galadriel whispered in your mind, casting her eyes sideways at you. "Welcome to Arda and to Lothlorien."

Once the Followship spread their bedrolls and made camp, Alena and Haldir excused themselves, taking a worn, but lighted path.

"Haldir," Alena breathed, stopping once out of earshot of the group.

"Meleth nin," The Haldir spoke, turning to the she half elf. "Manen an gar- mín vedui govannen." (My love, how long have we last met?)

"Avo ‘osto," She presses her forehead against his. "Gerich veleth nín." (Don't worry, you have my love.)

The marchwarden gently reached for the chain around her neck, drawing out the engagement ring. "Le annon veleth nín, híril nín." (And I give my love to you, my lady.)

For the the first time since meeting at the borders, the two embraced, lending the other with much needed love and warmth. It was awhile before Haldir stepped back.

"Nostad lín sui orch," He wrinkled his nose. "Cin baur a fós." (Your smell is like an Orc, take a bath.)

The beginnings of a small, relaxed smile appeared on Alena's face. She was home. "Tul-na nin. (Come with me.)

"Happilui." (Happily.)

Lounging in the tub of pleasantly hot water with hints of lavender within, Alena relaxed, soaking in the luxuries of being at home. Perhaps she could convince Haldir for a shoulder massage.

As the water cooled, she reluctantly stepped out and into a warm, cloud like, white robe. Pulling the plug, she suddenly padded out into the room, and found the marchwarden sitting on the edge of the bed, shrugging on a fresh new set of clothes.

"Meleth nin," He spoke first, watching his fiancee dig around the closet for a set of tunics. "Padad-na nin?" (My love, take a walk with me?)

"Mas anirach baded?" Alena asked, fixing her clothes and twirling in front of the wall length mirror. "Manen ceri- im thír?" (Where do you want to go? How do I look?)

Haldir watched fixated on the elleth, transfixed by the beauty in front. And yet, she was his. How in middle Earth did that happen.

"Ve vana ve i elena ro," He cleared his throat a few times, unable to get the lump out. (As beautiful as the stars above.)

The breathtaking smile he received in response, stole his breath away once more. Alena turned to him. "Tolo, hîr nín." (Come, my lord.)

Leafs of stained gold wafted down from the towering trees, adorning the gravel path with specks of gold. Jewel like color flowers sprouted from both sides, gifting the world with their unique shapes and petals. As the voices of other elves faded behind, the sounds of the forest resurfaced as animals chattered to one another, and colorful birds of paradise flew overhead singing their songs for all to hear. 

Ahead, sounds of lapping water could be heard. A layer of mist descended from above, settling into wisps, curling eagerly around the pair. Beams of moonlight shown through the canopy, as stars danced and twinkled across the night sky.

"Meleth nin," Haldir spoke in the silence once they've stopped at the end of the bridge, overlooking the lake. "It has been too long, and I'm afraid it'll be much longer till we next meet again."

Alena gently placed a hand on one of the marchwarden's stiff shoulders, and looked over at the still water. A white crescent moon reflected on the lake, dotted with plenty wavering sizes of stars, and one lone grey cloud shrouded parts of the splendor.

"Then let's make the best of the time that we have here," She responded. "Gandalf has fallen to the shadows. We will rest here, grief over him, and leave when we are ready, but not a moment too soon."

Haldir hummed in agreement, relishing in the presence of the she half elf. He was fortunate, he realized, that despite all the harrowing events that happened, they were both still alive and well. 

He reached out to gently nuzzle her cheek with a finger. "Gweston, Alena, iel -o Fenris, ana i valaina. Uare i cor na- lala tare, yare i forces -o mordor lende, emme indóme vest." (I swear, Alena, daughter of Fenris, to the Valars. When the ring is gone, when the forces of Mordor are conquered, we will wed here.)

"Gandalf na- lelya-. Man ceri- mín gar-?" Alena answered. (Gandalf is gone. What do have left?)

"I elena, i ithil, i anor, mín mellons. Ir ennas na- galad, ennas na- estel," The marchwarden pointed up at the night sky. "Mín gar- ammen." (The stars, the moon, the sun. When there is light, there is hope. We have us.)

The half elf stood close to him, standing against his lean chest. "I missed you, Haldir." She murmured.

"As I have missed you, Alena," He whispered, leaning down to gently press his lips to hers. 

It was a quick kiss, but the gesture spoke volumes. A small group of various races coming together, to fight against the whole world. Even though the odds were stacked against them, the world must be fought for.

"Will you stay with me tonight?" He mumbled against her lips, peering hopefully at the elleth.

"I must stay with the Fellowship, meleth. Their hearts are heavy with grief still. Another night when times aren't so hard."

Haldir held her in his arms, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. "I understand."

The pair stayed in the embrace, observing the peaceful night for as long as they could. 

Back in the makeshift camp, you sat cross legged on your bed roll, staring down at frayed parts of the tunic. Songs from the elves of Lorien could be heard in the distance.

"A Olórin i yaresse

Mentaner i Numeherui

Tírien i Rómenóri"

(Olórin who once was

Sent by the Lords of the West

To guard the Lands of the East)

"Melme nóren sina

núra ala

Eäro"

(Our love for this land

Is deeper than the deeps

Of the sea)

"What are they singing about?" Pippin spoke from the other side.

"A lament for Gandalf," You answered quietly, looking away from the sounds.

"What do they say about him?" Merry picked up. 

This time you didn't answer. Instead, Legolas spoke as he watched you. "I have not the heart to tell you. For me the grief is still too near."

To your left, Aragorn continued sharpening his sword as Gimli snored beside him. Legolas stood up, surprising you as he offered a hand.

"Come with me, Y/N. I want to show you a place," He smiled. 

You looked around at the camp, hesitating when Aragorn swatted Gimli repeatedly for snoring loudly, and eventually moving away to Boromir. 

"Okay," You agreed, grabbing his hand to pull yourself up to your feet. "Be back soon, Aragorn."

A grunt from your right was all the affirmation you heard.

"Maiaron i Oiosaila,

Manan elye etevanne

Nórie i malanelye?"

(Wisest of all Maiar,

What drove you to leave

That which you loved?)

"Ilfirin nairelma

ullume nucuvalme.

Nauva i nauva."

(Yet we will cast all away

Rather that submit.

What should be shall be.)

"I bet they don't mention his fireworks. There should be a verse about them." Sam stood up. "The finest rocket ever seen. They burst in stars of blue and green. Or after thunder, silver showers came falling like a rain of flowers."

"Perhaps you can write one for him, Sam," You smiled wryly at the hobbit. "I bet Gandalf would have loved one coming from you."

The hobbit shook his head at your suggestion. ""Oh, that doesn't do him justice by a long road."

"Just a try."

"Ú-reniathach

i amar galen

I reniad lín ne môr, nuithannen."

(No more will you wander

The green fields of this earth

Your journey has ended in darkness.)

""Take some rest. These borders are well protected." Aragorn spoke as he sat beside the captain.

"I will find no rest here. I heard her voice inside my head. She spoke of my father and the fall of Gondor. She said to me, 'Even now, there is hope left.' But I cannot see it. It is long since we had any hope." Boromir retorted with a single shake of his head. "My father is a noble man, but his rule is failing. And now our- our people lose faith. He looks to me to make things right and I-I would do it. I would see the glory of Gondor restored."

There was silence between the two.

"Have you ever seen it Aragorn? The White Tower of Ecthelion, glimmering like a spike of pearl and silver. Its banners caught high in the morning breeze. Have you ever been called home by the clear ringing of silver trumpets?" The captain asked, turning to the Ranger.

"I have seen the White City, long ago," The Ranger unclasped his green cloak.

One day, our paths will lead us there. And the tower guard shall take up the call, "The Lords of Gondor have returned!"

Aragorn smiled slightly at his words, then looked away.

"Where are we going, Legolas?" You asked, after a moment of following the elf.

"A spot I found, not long ago," He spoke, pointing at the lump of dirt. "The hill right there. I can teach you how to make flower crowns."

"Flower crowns?" You repeated in disbelief, giggling at the end.

"Yes, mellon, flower crowns," Legolas grinned at you.

"That's hardly a hill, Legolas," You rolled your eyes at him, but grinned back at him. 

In front, a field of flowers waved gently back and forth with the wind. The breeze softly whispered through each strand of your hair, curling around your fingers, and affectionately caressed your cheek.

"It's a beautiful night," You spoke, sitting down when Legolas made a spot for you.

"As are you," The elf returned. 

Immediately, heat rushed to your cheeks and you turned away from him.

"Let me teach you, Y/N," He grasped a flower stem. "Watch carefully."

It was rhythmic, even soothing as you copied his technique intently. At times where the crown was loose in some places, he would reach over, brush his hands over yours, and teach you how to fold one stem over another to tighten the circle.

For a moment, you forgot all your worries, your pain, your suffering, and your grief of Gandal. Being with Legolas was like a balm to your injuries, gently coaxing you, and believing in you as you worked on the crown. At times, you glanced sideways at his knowing, nimble hands. 

It was an arrangement of oranges, reds, and yellows. To be frank, the flower crown was one of the beautiful pieces you had ever laid eyes upon. Although you were older than Legolas, you were glad he shared this piece of knowledge with you.

An art form.

"Long days ahead," He spoke, gazing in determination at the flower crown in his hands. "No Gandalf, no one to lead the Fellowship."

"My mother told me that even when the two trees at home were cut down, there were still hope," You continued tying the stems together. "That even during the darkest nights, hope can still be found. It's not easy to see it, but it's there."

The elf was silent, as he paused his work to turn to you. "Do you think so?"

"I know so, Legolas," You placed your finished crown. "There, the flower elf prince of Greenwood."

"What do you think, mellon?" Legolas stood up, grinning happily at you as he adjusted the crown.

"It suits you," You chuckled, watching as he reached down to pick more flowers. "Why don't we make one for everyone? No i brestanneth anírach tírad vi amar." (Be the change you want to see in the world.)

He stilled at your words, straightening back up, flowers forgotten. "Ú-chenion." (I don't understand.)

"Caro naid dithin na veleth veleg," You stood up, taking his hand in yours. "Mín ma ceri- hi go-." (Do small things with great love. We will do this together.)

He stepped dangerously towards you, crowding into your space. You breath hitched as he stared down at your lips, memorizing every inch of it. "Go-, híril nín?" (Together, my lady?)

"Y/N, Legolas," A voice spoke out from the treeline. 

You quickly shoved the prince away from you, desperate to create distance between you and him. Legolas turned red at the thought of being caught together, and you turned towards the newcomer.

Galadriel emerged from the path, keenly observing you and the prince. 

"Lady Galadriel," You greeted quietly, sitting back down on the patch of ground from earlier. The elf nodded once in respect, and sat down beside you again. This time your knees touched, and you tried your best to ignore it.

"Y/N," She greeted, a smile gracing her face. "What brings the child of Valar here?"

"The same reason why Gandalf was sent," You responded. "Why all of us still fight."

"Morgoth's forces number by the thousands. Sauron does not know you are here, but I fear he will soon. You can not fight him."

"Until Dagor dagorath comes, the fight against my uncle will never cease."

"Dagor dagorath?" Legolas wondered.

You leveled your gaze at him. "The end of all times, when my father and his herald will lead the army of Arda and Ainurs against him. Then finally bring peace like it once was."

There was silence.

"Man gonoded eraid derithach?" Galadriel stepped closer. (How long will you stay here?)

"Tenna sauron na- lala tare," You answered with the smallest of smiles. (Until Sauron is no more)

"Ir ma cin treneri- hain?" Legolas turned to you, watching as your smile dropped. (When will you tell them?)

You turned back towards the direction where the makeshift camp was. "Er aur." (One day.)

As the stars lights flickered above you, you sighed. Being here was one thing, but another to not intervene. All you could do was to give advice. 

"I'll stay with you, mele-," He stumbled over his words. "Melon nin."

Galadriel smiled as the prince cleared his throat, in a futile attempt to cover his mistake. You studied the ground, until a hand took yours and you looked back up to find Galadriel standing close to you.

"Gwend sui lotheg i edlothia an-uir," She whispered within your mind. "Mel na an-uir." (Friendship is like a flower that blooms forever. Love is forever.)

You glanced over at Legolas, who met your shy gaze, but quickly broke it apart. 

"Aranel -o i valar," She continued. "Enyal- sina." (Princess of the Valar, remember this.)

"Cin na mel." (You are loved.)

Reads Everything: @asraime @mournthewicked

Tolkien: @aspiring-ginger

[drabblesanddreams]

Orbit- Dazai Osamu x Reader (3/3)

Here it is! Part 3/3! No lie it took me some time to write this, i was genuinely stuck on the dialogue and what i wanted to accomplish this chapter so im sorry it took so long! I dont know if yall will like the ending but it’s what i had in mind from the start! ENJOY:))

Part 1      Part 2

word count: 1.8k TW: none but she angsty

Summary: Time doesn’t heal all wounds and the simplest words can reopen a badly stitched heart.

“Hello, (Y/N)”

It was amazing really, what time can do to a person’s soul. People were like that you supposed, no matter what hardships you’d come to endure, no matter just how much time seemed to harden you, there was always that one person in your life that could break your walls down with two words.

It unnerved you, to have him suddenly come back into your life and easily chip your carefully crafted mask with that ability.

You took a step back warily, analyzing the man in front of you in the possibility of malicious intent. 

But he seemed lighter, his playful smile a little more genuine than what you were used too. In addition, his eyes lacked the emptiness that came with shouldering all that darkness openly years ago.

You hadn’t realized how much you missed looking at that particular shade of brown, especially with the way the moonlight reflected off of them.

Other than that, he was still the same externally. A little taller yes, but still seemingly Dazai.

What you didn’t quite understand at the moment, however, was what was he doing in an alleyway of Mafia territory.

“What are you doing here,” you questioned suspicious all the while ignoring years of unspoken history that seemed to hang overhead the both of you, “You shouldn’t be here”

The corners of his mouth quirked upwards before his pretty lips dropped into a pout, “Not even a hello?” he complained childishly, and you frowned at him.

You didn’t like this, not one bit.

His nonchalant attitude stung slightly as if you barely made an imprint upon his life that seeing you again was barely a bump in the path paved away for his future. But you internally shook those feelings away, everything was different now. You were different now.

Instead, you let yourself feel the frustration and despise you had towards the brunet.

“Who says I’m here for anything?” he asked innocently, blinking those brown hues at you. Your frown deepened; you knew in your heart he was lying. It must have to do with the tiger boy, he was most likely trying to find out where the port mafia was keeping him.

“Don’t fuck around Dazai,” you snarled, hand reaching towards the back of your jeans firmly grasping the handle of your gun, “What do you want?” you pointed it at him.

“Whoa! Scary scary!” he cried out, throwing his hands in the air before dropping the act.

He cocked his head towards you, brown locks falling over his forehead.

There was a time in your life where you would let yourself brush his bangs away. You pushed that particular memory away.

You weren’t going to touch him like that again, ever.

He suddenly got serious, all signs of joking and humour wiped off his face. His eyes darkened considerably; all light lost to the inescapable darkness of the night and instead, a lustful gaze replaced it.

“What would you say…” he started lowly, taking a few steps towards you.

“If what I wanted…”

You froze as he continued walking towards you.

“Was to see you?”

He finally closed the distance between the two of you, his tall figure loomed over you as his hands fell on your waist, trapping you between his bandaged body and the wall of the alleyway. Your eyes widened slightly as you desperately tried burying your reaction and feelings away. 

The gun loosened slightly in your hand as it was pressed against his chest. Somehow, even though the distance between you was minimal, you still felt as if he was miles away.

Regardless, you couldn’t help but feel yourself getting heated with the way he was looking at you. It oh so reminded you of the Dazai you knew growing up and developing feelings for. It wasn’t fair for him to still have such a strong hold upon your heart.

The sound of cars passing by the alleyway was all that filled the defining silence for the moment.

“We both know that’s a lie,” you finally whispered, your words drawing a smirk from the ex-mafia member.

Your eyes dropped to the gun pressed against him before moving towards your finger on the trigger then back up to meet his burning stare.

You licked your lips, “I could kill you right now,” you stated aggravated by his nonchalant attitude, “I could pull this trigger three times and kill you” You continued.

His smirk only widened before he hummed lowly, “We both know you aren’t going to do it” his hand wrapped over your one hand gripping the gun before pulling it easily away and letting it drop to the floor.

Your mouth opened slightly before firmly shutting. You grit your teeth slightly at his previous actions. You knew he knew how weak you were for him which only frightened you.

For one to know another’s weakness means that they can be exploited and destroyed. And for Dazai, he only needed to pull a few strings to accomplish the means to break you.

You huffed, pushing him away before you defiantly stated with a hard look, “Don’t think for a second that you can manipulate me.”

He peered at you for a moment, eyes void of any detectable emotion before he started chuckling lowly.

You ignored his laughter as he shoved his hands in the pockets of a trench coat you faintly recognized, “I’ve changed now,” you continued hesitantly.

“Not everything has though,” he hummed before cocking his head slightly, “We both know what hasn’t changed”

You felt your breath catch itself in your throat as you knew exactly what he was eluding to. He was still as incredibly observable as he was all those years ago, that clearly hasn’t changed.

You knew however that four years didn’t do much all that much to your feelings towards the brunet. It was still an unspoken thing and you didn’t like how he was pulling it out all to mess with your mind.

 You tried not to let it overthrow your train of thought, but you were susceptible as always.

You grit your teeth, feeling your mouth go dry before your eyebrows furrowed slightly in some form of remorse. 

You didn’t know if it was towards what this thing was between you and Dazai or what was to become of it. Or if it was towards yourself, to the person lost to the consequences of time and the cruelty of the world.

You shook your head lightly before looking up at him through your lashes, “That game is over, Dazai,” you said slowly with a faraway look, “that game was for children.”

And it was, whatever dance of emotions occurred between the two of you was a dangerous and stupid game to play. It only caused a special sort of sorrow to occur at the end and only served to endanger your life in one way or another. You saw now what it did to Dazai after losing Odasaku.

You blinked rapidly, feeling a lump form in your throat, “We’re playing worse games now” was all you said, letting your eyes fall to the gun on the ground.

Dazai followed your eyes before fixing you with another unreadable look. He inhaled quietly, tilting his head back and letting the chocolate waves fall over the nape of his neck. You traced his stare to the full moon hanging overhead before returning your eyes back to his.

Suddenly the silence was broken by the ringing of your cell phone. Fishing it out of your pocket you quickly hit the answer button before lifting it up to your ears while maintaining your stare.

Dazai looked on unflinching as the other person’s voice came through the other line, “(Y/N)! Where the hell are you?!?” the voice screeched at you from the other end of the line. You flinched slightly at the volume.

“Tachihara,” you knit your eyebrows together in confusion, “what is it?” you questioned your partner.

“What is it? Are you serious?! We’re being fucking invaded by the Armed Detective Agency!” he screamed, and your eyes widened as they caught Dazai’s vacant stare.

You gaped at him in quiet shock as you swam through a flurry of emotions, your arm slowly returning to its side.

“Hey! (Y/N)! Are you hearing me right now, where the fuck are you?!” Tachihara’s voice called out but you ignored it and instead pressed the button to hang up. All the while, your eyes never strayed from Dazai’s own pair.

You tilted your head, squeezing your eyes shut in slight denial as you shook your head. You opened your eyes once more. You felt your head pound painfully and your heart rate quickened.

All you could convey now was bewilderment as you spoke, “You were distracting me.”

The cheerful persona was back on as he grinned at you, “Well, (Y/N), seems like I must leave,” he took a few steps back before fixing you with another smile, “Thank you for your time.”

The blood in your veins felt as if they turned into ice as the denial and foreign grief filled you up once more. He wasn’t leaving again, was he?

Your bottom lip trembled the same way your hands shook, uncontrollably.

You watched him walk away from you for a second time and you felt the crack he installed in your heart grow bigger and bigger with each step he took.

“Dazai!” you cried out weakly, taking a small step forward.

He stopped walking before sparing you a glance from behind his shoulder.

Don’t leave me again.

Come back.

Take me with you.

I need you.

I’m still alone.

I understand now.

I’m sorry.

All the words you wanted to say died on your lips and instead you shut your mouth.

He blinked at you, once, twice, before the corners of his mouth tilted downwards. An empty look overtook the look in his eyes as he breathed in deeply.

“Whatever you’re about to say,” he said quietly as you finally registered the sound of gunshots in the background, “Don’t.”

You could only stare back in desperation as he continued.

“Our time is up.”

With that, all you could do was watch his figure get smaller and smaller as he walked away from you.

While the sound of gunshots and crumbling buildings continued to fill the background, you let your head fall back and gazed upwards at the same moon that Dazai had been analyzing a few moments ago. 

With the moon as your only witness, you wiped the few stray tears that managed to fall on your cheeks.

You made your way towards where you knew your partner was waiting.

Right now, you had a game to play.

[cnc-hoebayb]

Deadass a dream i had with Richard hehejej

I literally spat out half of this so sloppily bc i wanted to capture the dream essence right after it happened, but like you get the idea.

And obvio i beefed it up a lil for story effect so that’s why it’s so detailed and cheesy in some parts (especially the end sorry skdk)

.

A pair of suited up body guards shut the doors and stand at attention behind you as everyone enters the giant store. The emptiness of a place this big feels a little uneasy but at the same time makes you feel so lavish and important.

The boys are already pairing up beside you, grabbing each other and friends before diving into which section of clothes they wanna start with. You smile and watch them almost run into the aisles, way too excited to be shopping than should be normal. The accessory display in the corner catches your eye and you wander over alone.

Sure, it was fine to shop and spend some alone time every so often, but that didn’t mean it wasn’t bad to feel a lil lonely either. The gold earrings in the glass container distract your thoughts and you gravitate in farther. A reflection bounced off the table and you see the faint outline of a figure behind you. Your mind eases suddenly and your heart swells. A pair of hands snake around your waist from behind and a stubbly chin presses into your neck.

“I missed you,” he whispers before laying a soft kiss on your shoulder. “Richard, we literally saw each other 2 seconds ago walking in here.” You play and he squeezes you into him tighter. “Yea but i missed you like this.”

PDA was never quite your scene, but having to maintain a relationship with him entirely in secret, it felt almost impossible. To have his arms around you like this, it gradually felt like a necessity. You lean into it, eating up every last bit and all the sensations of his love before it had to end.

“Whatcha lookin at,” he releases you and it feels empty, but his hand locks discreetly in yours at his side. “Just some jewelry, might have to cop some lavish shit while we here,” you wink and then point to a thick chain on another display. “This one actually reminded me of you, maybe I’ll get it for myself to pretend it’s yours.”

His hand guides you to follow and walk with him to a different section of the store. “You know i can just give you one of mine instead,” he says mindlessly while browsing the racks on his right. The thought gives you a sense of happiness but it’s soon overpowered by reality. “Babe you know we can’t do that,” you say defeated.

Richard stops everything to look back at you, eyes heavy and sad in an instant. “Soon,” is all he says, “te prometo.” You wanna hug him, fall into his body and let him tell you it’ll all be okay.

But a body zooms in around the corner and its back to acting. As if instinctively at this point, your hands pull from each other with swiftness, body language at a complete opposite, no trace of any sentiment between you. “Erick loco, why you running like that,” Richard laughs and struts over to him, giving you a little head nod as he walks away like nothing.

“Im trying to race Zabdiel, donde está él??” You hear them talking as you walk the other way. It was best not to hang around, otherwise you might get too comfortable and slip up, get too touchy or say something that blows your cover.

It wasnt the most ideal, but it was something that just needed time. Not that anyone or one of the boys would be mad, but bigger than that. Being part of the tour staff made it iffy. What if they had thought your new promotion was because of him? That you were getting special treatment and being paid basically to have fun and fuck around with the important people. And not to mention the fans. If this went public, there would be a riot of people accusing you of being fake or using him, everything you feared. It was too risky for the both of you. And you loved him so much, it felt like there was nothing better to do.

You fill your head with distractions and ride the escalator to the next floor, getting as far away as possible. The music was louder up here and it made it easier to get lost. At this point you weren’t even shopping, just wandering and clearing your mind, fingers brushing past fabric as you walked the length of every aisle. Something shuffles to your side and you know by those heavy steps, but you continue walking in a daze.

“You look like you’re thinking too hard,” Richard towers behind you, sliding his hands down your arms until they interlocked with his again, crossing them across your waist in a deep hug. You close your eyes for a second and let him wander along with you, his scent so intoxicating, overshadowing the sadness. “What’s on your mind, baby?” He senses your uneasiness and it makes you nervous.

“Nada, just thinking.” He doesn’t question any further, just keeps his hands on you, spinning you around to face him, planting kisses up and down your neck, making your cheeks blush immediately. “Stooopp,” you giggle, all sad thoughts already lost, overpowered by the happiness he always seemed to give you. “Richard Yashel Cama- NooO” you squeal as he lifts you off the ground, spinning you in a fast circle before dipping you towards the ground.

His smile beams as your noses brush together, him holding you so close to the ground and all the built up energy has your heart pounding. He holds you there, letting the tension build before leaning in ever so slightly to your lips..

“Richard, yo, you gotta come see this we-“ a voice yells from a distance and the perfect bubble of yours collapses. You don’t know what to do so Richard is the one to act quick. He drops you the rest of the way to the ground, your body hitting the tile with a soft smack. The look he gives is a tiny second of regret followed by yet another change of character.

It’s Chris this time to turn the corner, coming upon the scene of you on the ground, Richard hovering above you. “Whoaaa girl watch where you goin,” he improvs on spot, acting like you had just bumped into him or something. This is definitely the lowest you’ve felt. Literally and figuratively.

He reaches out a hand to help you and you get up quickly, fixing yourself before turning the opposite direction from the boys, them already going on their own way too. Richard looks back at you with a glum stare but you ignore it, not wanting to even look at him right now. Emotions buildup in every piece of your body and you desperately seek out anywhere to get out of this space.

His laugh still seems to echo in your ears the farther you walk away, it was too hard. You stop at the little glass balcony to observe everyone below on the first floor. You smile as you see Erick hiding in a rack of pants, Chris and Richard about to be his next victims. He looks up at you and does the “shh” gesture and you do it back to comply. It’s fun and lighthearted, but that heart wrenching feeling comes back when you see Richard.

Him and Chris scream and fall to the floor as Erick pops out, scaring them half to death with the easiest prank in the book. Erick looks up to you and does a thumbs up excitedly. You throw one up back and smile down, catching glimpse of Richard giving you a look from down there as well. The smile fades from your face immediately and you have to turn away, walking away from the ledge and off to somewhere he isn’t.

You find comfort in the shoes section, plopping down on one of the squishy chairs on the side of the aisle. Your head falls to your hands in your lap and it’s so annoying to feel like this. To feel like you’re so far away from someone who is actually your entire heart and world, like you can’t be with who you love because it’s wrong, but it’s not.

You take a deep breath in to calm down and when you look up, there he is. “Baby what’s wrong? Are you o-“ you cut him off mid sentence and start to walk away. “Not now Richard,” he follows close behind and grabs your hand, forcing you to turn around and face him. “Don’t touch me.” You yank out of his grip and tears form in your eyes.

“Heyheyhey, it’s just me, tell me what’s wrong.” He keeps his distance, not wanting you to feel uncomfortable, all he needs is you to open up. “I’m done, Richard. I’m just done.” You sniffle and wipe a stray tear from your cheek.

“Im done acting. I hate having to pretend this isn’t real because this is the realest thing I’ve ever felt. I’m done keeping secret touches and kisses,” you stop to lower your voice when you notice you had been almost yelling. “Because when i touch you i feel like i can’t let you go. And i hate myself for getting so lost in you so easily. Cause i know it has to end when someone walks in the room or when we step out of our little hiding spots.”

You can see the hurt in his eyes but it doesn’t stop the worlds coming out. “But i forgive you every time. No matter how much the separation part kills me. Even if it means ignoring me, fuck- even dropping me on the floor. Richard i forgive you every time because i love you so damn much, but now I’m so....”

He doesn’t give you time to finish. You didn’t know if you even could to be honest. And this is what you meant. Forgiving him the second he encloses you in his chest, shedding all pain and tears in a single embrace. His hand pets your hair as you let it out quietly in his shoulder. “I’m so sorry, baby. I’m so so sorry,” he chants over and over until you pull apart, finally able to look him in the eyes.

“It’s not your fault.” You wipe your eyes and lift his chin from hanging disappointedly. “It’s no ones fault.” He plays with the hem of your shirt absentmindedly, something he did often when he was nervous or anxious. “But i still feel guilty, T/N you don’t deserve this.” His jaw tightens and you know he feels terrible.

���That’s why this ends now.” You feel sick for a split second before he finishes. “I saw the way you looked at me earlier and i couldn’t bear the idea of making you feel this way. So before i came up here to you I..” he stops and grabs your hands in his. “I told everyone the truth.”

Shock settles in and you wanna cry, laugh, scream, do anything to snap out of it. “Richard,” you start and he pulls something out of his pocket, a little black jewelry box. “I know this doesn’t make anything better, and i promise you I’ll make it all up to you somehow, but for now..”

You take the tiny package and pop it open. Eyes watering up yet again as you’re faced with the pretty gold earrings from earlier, paired beautifully with the daintiest gold ring you’ve ever seen. And the final piece, one of your favorite gold chains that Richard owned, must’ve had it on him close today. You’re able to crack a side smile and look up at his toothy goofy one in response.

“I thought that if we’re gonna be seen in public as a couple now, you might wanna be extra icy, flaunt it a lil bit.” He jokes and all pressure from before falls from your shoulders. His arms open, inviting you so sweetly and you can’t help but jump in.

“I love you, you know that?” He squeezes you and you feel it in his touch, his voice, in his everything. You kiss him in response and he knows you feel it too.

It’s almost a whole minute of his lips on yours until you feel some type of eyes on you from behind. You part in enough time to turn around and face the little creepers. “Bro seriously?” Richard whines and your cheeks flush red from embarrassment.

It’s Zabdi, Erick, Joel, and Chris with a very obvious phone up recording the whole scene, all of them choking up laughter. “I just wanted to see if you were serious.” Joel throws his hands up in defense.

“To be honest, i thought it’d be funny to record,” Erick confesses and looks over to Chris who replies “Yea, this is gonna look so good on Instagram.”

[bananadineapple]

Distraction >> phase 2

PROMPT: It's Y/N's birthday. In the Avengers tower where Bucky was set to distract Y/N from a party, she was already distracted herself while walking back. It didn't help as well when she sees Bucky with his bare arms and toned body sitting in the middle of the couch.

PAIRING: Bucky x slightlyOCD!Reader

WORD COUNT: 5,564

WARNINGS: Language, a bit of NSFW (just a teensy bit)

A/N: IM BACK GUYS and Im so sorry this took reaaal long, I had to make sure every detail was perfect. And it actually too reeeeal long to write, surprisingly. But at last, I have delivered! And so will Bucky soon if you continue to read on nyeheheheh ;))

 I hope you guys like it!

  MASTERLIST

  Phase one >> Phase two

Y/N has just come home from a long and exhausting briefing, one that to her distaste fell on her birthday. After that alarming surprise mission that knocked all the energy out of the Avengers, Y/N was more than worried for her own state of wellbeing. So all the while she stood their explaining every detail of the mission to Fury, she was absent-mindedly thinking if the rest of the team was still up for a night out in a resto bar, laughing and celebrating the night away while trying to endure everyone else's corny half-drunk birthday messages.

It was a huge breath of air when Fury does the weirdest thing he’s ever done; hug her and wish her a happy birthday along with a short but well-meant ‘thank-you’  for her undying loyalty and service to SHIELD and the Avengers. With a short nod from his head he dismisses her, and she went bolting right out of the building, a bit ignorant of the passing greetings coming from her co-workers and friends, and hopped right in her car while mentally laying out the plan for tonight such as which resto bar would be nice enough, the budget Tony would be willing to allot, how much alcohol would Steve be willing to allow, and what to wear and all the basic fiddle-faddles of a night out.

Oddly, she found her train of thoughts faltering when she had imagined a certain someone's smile she'd want to see all night long. Maybe his piercing blue eyes crinkling with his heartfelt laughter and his warm aura that made her feel safe was on the list of things Y/N so desperately wanted to see to complete her birthday night out. Even if he just sat there quietly, not bothering to talk more than a few words with her other than ‘Happy Birthday’ or ‘You look nice tonight’, it’d be enough.

----

“Does he hate me or something?”

Clint makes one of the most shocked faces Y/N has ever seen her best friend make.

“Y/N” He quickly makes his way beside her, “You and I both know you’re way to kindhearted for anyone in the Avengers team to hate.”

“But…I have no idea why he won’t talk to me.”  Clint noticed the way Y/N’s voice trails off into a whisper, as if he didn’t notice the fact that Y/N was completely interested in Bucky.

“And I have no idea why you won’t talk to him.”

Her eyes widened with realization when she looked at Clint’s knowing face. And she feared that beneath that look was a reason why the silent air between her and Bucky remained untouched throughout the months.

“It’s 2018, for God’s sake Y/N.” Despite the annoying chuckle from her close friend, she nods slowly, “It doesn’t matter who goes first. What matters is how long will you let the silence last. Don't complain about something you can fix yourself."

Y/N remained silent. And that’s when Clint knew she knew he was right.

“You think he’ll like me back?”

“Everyone does, and so does he. Just give it a go, maybe tomorrow’s you’re lucky day.”

----

Despite the image from the surface of Bucky Barnes as the soldier he is with his undeniably attractive frame, she wanted to see that man she fell in love with over the few words and interactions they’ve had for months.

She was clueless to whatever was the reason behind Bucky's shy nature. From all that action she sees of him on the field; strapping, ruthless and fierce with every move he makes, he just suddenly turns into a big ball of awkwardness around her. Y/N tried many times to figure out if it was her morning breath or something on her face that was bothering Bucky to not even have a normal conversation with her. To this, she just painful got accustomed to, thinking that in no ways would it ever change. Even during the past couple birthdays all he would do is mutter a greeting with a compressed smile she awkwardly reciprocates.

And it became a silent agreement all of a sudden. Nods, silent glances, very small talks that would last for only seconds even if she wanted it to last for hours. A 'safe' distance, as she put it, Y/N thought it was best that they kept it that way, because she was slowly giving into the thought that he just doesn't feel the same way and that's really just how the real world works.

So yes, it was pretty surprising that he was suddenly right there in the middle of the living room, just suddenly taking interest in actually looking back at her eyes.

"Hey Y/N." He spoke in a tone softer than from the raspier one she often hears.

"Uh...” She had no idea what to say so Y/N gives off an awkward wave of her hand, “…h-hey Bucky.”

“You’re here early?”

The words and the way he said it was different.

Too different that she tried gathering her thoughts to figure out if this was real, of just another one of her birthday fantasies. But when Bucky puts on that signature, million-dollar smile on his face, just once, and the entire view of his gorgeous, sculpted body pressing against the tight fabrics of his clothes began to seethe through Y/N sense of focus. The moment she felt the rising heat in her cheeks threatening to ruin her composure she clears her throat and tore her gaze from Bucky before her eyes began to travel down further.

“Uh  yeah yeah I-uh…” The habit of denying the words Y/N was dying to say to him stuck to her like a leech, and she didn’t bother to take it off especially with him around looking like such a fucking god, “Fury gave me an ‘early dismissal’ as his birthday present to me.”

When Y/N’s eyes weren’t looking where he wanted them to be, Bucky was knocked ever so slightly out of focus out of a distant feeling of uncertainty of the plan working.

“You okay Y/N? Did whatever that incident I heard a while ago still bother you?”

At Bucky’s decision to stand up from where he was seated, Y/N found herself awkwardly shifting her stance while rubbing the back of her neck nervously. Because she still couldn’t imagine managing to stay alive under his towering stature dangerously close to her.

Shit Y/N stop it.

“No no it’s just that…” You’re too hot to look at damn it. “…FRIDAY was acting real weird with the keypad and everything and Tony-“

When Y/N too suddenly pauses, so did Bucky. Because it looked like she had realized something real big, and Bucky was mentally hoping that she had it all figured out. But it wasn’t the surprise she figured out, but a ticket out of this thickly awkward air between them, that could still eventually lead to the sabotage of the Avengers’ plan.

“TONY!” Bucky was startled at the way her body jolted and her finger pointed at him. “Yes, uh Tony! I-I need to look for Tony.”

“W-what?”

Safe distance. Safe distance, Y/N, she tells to herself like a mantra.

Y/N’s feet began to shift as she tried to figure out where to walk around and way way far from Bucky. But at every shift to her left or to her right Bucky quickly blocks her to it. She stops for a moment to make sure she wasn’t being fooled by her playful imagination. And she was certain with the way he had oddly locked his gaze into hers as if he was observing every movement she made. Again, odd. And extremely hot enough to form a lump in her throat she could not manage to swallow.

“Why?”

Bucky had stepped closer to his right to block Y/N off just a subtle bit so as not to give it all away.

“I-It’s my birthday and-“

Another step to her left, was mirrored suit by Bucky.

“H-Happy Birthday by the way.”

By then he was already a few inches away from her, and Y/N was too engrossed with trying to pry her way out of the sheer bashfulness she was feeling so near around Bucky. Despite the fact that he was still a bit rusty, Bucky had liked the way he was already making her feel; he could practically feel the radiating heat from her flushed cheeks without even nearing the touch of her skin. It was pretty much enough to give him the right leverage to do more than just distract Y/N.

“Thaaanks…” Her lips were barely carrying the smooth, nonchalant laughter she intended that it came out rather nervous and squeaky, and Bucky found it so amusing to hear, “…u-uh Buck…c-can you excuse me for a moment?”

“Why?”

Y/N got herself cornered looking back into those alluring eyes of his.

“W-well I uh-you see it’s like-yeah uhm…” Now Y/N was even confused herself if the system lock was malfunctioning, or every single part of her common sense, “…t-the party-n-no I mean tonight-I-I need to talk to-A-Avengerss….”

Bucky didn’t realize how adorable Y/N looked so flustered up like that. It sent his lips curling into a smile went he let his imagination dance around his head with the thought of having Y/N melt in his touch, and it led him everywhere he wanted his hands to be on hers, and it soon had him bursting with a newfound confidence to shake off every ounce of awkwardness left in his bones.

“They’re not here.” He takes a pretending look around, with a slow shrug of his shoulders, making sure that his eyes land back on hers, “It’s just you and me.”

Both her eyes and mouth widened when realizing that he was right. But it was worth one more push to pry him off of her.

“W-where did they go?” She tried to pull the conversation back to a casual one, but the way he just looked at her differently, she knew she was losing to whatever Bucky was playing on her.

“Off to buy you some presents.” Bucky grins, while leaning his arm beside the wall to rest his body just close enough to lock her in her place.

“W-why?”

Because it was a bit odd that all of them except Bucky would be running off to buy her presents. But the more she tried to wire her brain to fire back up her skills in exemplary focus, she just couldn’t with having Bucky Barnes too close for her to even function properly with standing up straight.

“Why not?” Now Y/N was beginning to feel her heart thump too loudly when he began to take closer steps towards her, that she panicked and automatically strode backwards and found herself not being able to take her gaze off of his trance, “Why wouldn’t they lavish the special birthday girl with gifts that she deserves?”

This man was acting suspiciously out of character around her. And Y/N tried to find every reason she could think of to answer why but how her brain was juggling two thoughts all at once was knocking out every ounce of her well-trained skill.

“Y-you?” She was almost too speechless, but Bucky had picked it up.

“I already have mine.”

At the last word that rolled off his lips she felt the cool surface of the wall suppress her from walking back any further, and to her fear, had her right where Bucky wanted her.

Bingo.

Bucky watched Y/N heave out a breath in surrender. There was nowhere else to go, and Bucky made sure that she had a good and close view of him when she slowly lifted her eyes to look back at him.

Heaven be damned at such a gorgeous view Y/N had of Bucky Barnes, the closest she has even gotten to in months. And she marveled at how better his entire frame looked so damn close. The way his ocean blue eyes traced down every part of her frame, strands of his hair delicately sweeping at the side of his flushed cheeks that couldn’t beat the shade his smirked lips were showered with. This time Y/N let her eyes feast on a view lower, but ever so slowly enough to take in his breathtaking, massive form. She felt her breath hitch at the sight of part of his bare chest peeking from the fitted shirt that was barely able to hold back the shape of every curves of his muscular torso, and she could barely keep her sudden crave at bay. In every single detail she had grown to love so damn much, Bucky had never made her feel so captivated without even saying anything.

Despite the blush in her cheeks creeping slowly everywhere on her face, Y/N was admittedly loving Bucky’s alluring display at a distance just in hand’s reach.  

“You look beautiful, Y/N.” He was so close, she could feel his breathe tickling on her skin that began to heat in longing for his against it.

Even Bucky himself was so perplexed at how he underestimated the beauty of this gorgeous woman. How delicate her bashfulness made her look, how prettily she blushed like that. But one look at her skin that showed only a portion from her neck down, he bit his lip at the thought of having every inch of her all on him, and it could be in a matter of seconds if Y/N didn’t stop looking so fucking irresistible to his taste, so he bit his lip to try and keep his desire controlled.

Bucky felt a deep craving for her, something that he was trying so hard to avoid over the past few months he only had her at his sight. And to think, all it took was one small mishap of a scheduled package to have her right where he wanted her that he was longing for months. Thank you, T’Challa.

“Bucky…” She breathes out a whimper, dangerously aware of him closing in, but could do nothing but helplessly look at his nearing lips, “… Y-you’re acting so weird today…”

"Y-you.." Y/N couldn't find where to place her hands so it began having a mind of its own and just went pointing at every inch of Bucky, "..y-you're talking to me."

For a moment Bucky blinked, "Yeah uh…I am?"

"Right I just um.." Y/N could only squint to Bucky's eyes staring her down, so to be careful not to get lost in them. "…you-me…we never talk like this."

He lets a deep chuckle rumble from his chest, and Y/N swore it sounded more like a growl enough for her to automatically bite her lip in suspense. Bucky was aware of the surprising amount of confidence he had all of a sudden, and it was only because he knew the truth that still had Y/N denying it through her pursed lips.

“Well I…” There it was. It was about to happen. "It's your birthday, Y/N."

"Aand? W-What's the difference today from the others?"

Another grin emerges from the corners of his lips. He did find the newfound confidence in him to be completely out of the silent character he had Y/N be used to. Bucky was beginning to like this new attitude he realized only Y/N was able to bring out of him.

"Well, I uh…" His gaze simmers down to a softer tone, "…I found out something today…"

It took Y/N less than seconds to know what he meant. His oddly sexy demeanor today, right on her birthday, made sense of it all. But what had Y/N hold her breath was he found it out, and she knew he was a bit dense to figure it out himself. Someone told him. Another feeling she tried to keep controlled was the sudden urge to open her mouth at a probable suspect such as Clint.

"Mmm?" Y/N hummed, trying to look cool when her whole body was already heating up.

"A little bird told me something that you've been hiding from me all these months we never talked."

Right. Shit. Clint was soo getting a clean knock on his head later.

"H-hiding? Me?" She tried to look innocent, but had the rest of her words tumbling down, "N-nooo I- what would I hide from-"

"Try hiding all you want; bat those pretty lashes of yours, keep telling me lies,"

Bucky paused, and it was to find the right words to say to her. Because that moment was it, it was happening. The one thing he could only dream of but never get a chance to actually do. This was the chance.

“Your trick may be working on me, but I already know the truth.”

His body was practically magnetizing hers, and she was almost too close to giving in. The suspense was slowly driving Bucky mad, but he knew it was what had Y/N holding onto every quick breath she took.

"Y/N…" The way her name slips off his mouth sounded gentler this time, letting a few quiet seconds pass while slowly pulling her hips closer, and the soft gasp she exhales drove him wild.

"Bucky…" He took the first move to slowly close the inches of a gap between his lips and hers. "…I-I…am completely confused right now…"

"Don't worry, doll." The way Bucky purred had Y/N completely entranced, "I have the answer to your problem."

It's really happening. Y/N couldn't find the urge to retaliate anymore, because Bucky himself was pulling her closer. It was beginning to be clear that Clint was right all along. So Y/N slowly begins to lean in as well, giving into her fast beating heart that screamed and craved to having him pressed against her in what was just about to be in seconds apart. She closes her eyes ever so slowly, raising her chin against his hot, fanning breath tickling her aching lips.

Right, until..

CCLLLAAANNNGG

“FUCK!”

A loud noise, followed by a voice broke throughout the entire room, bouncing right off the walls and breaking in between the two's momentary trance. Y/N’s eyes shot right open at Bucky’s bewildered ones. It was until the few remaining echoes of whatever made the noise began to process in both their heads. Not a good thing, though, for Y/N to instantly recognize what, who, and where it came from.

“Was…” At first she was uncertain, but still asked him nonetheless, “…w-was that Sam?”

Sam? Even Bucky had the same look of confusion knocking every last bit of that distractingly attractive look on his face. Until Sam’s voice replayed in his memory, and all too quickly, came in remembering the string of thoughts of the surprise birthday party bursting in with the sense of panic surging through his body. He was trying his best not to show it through his eyes so he blinked rather a bit too fast to still make it obvious enough for someone with Y/N skills in deducting.

“U-uh…no?” And Bucky had made the mistake of asking rather than answering.

Something didn’t click in Y/N’s head.  The bat of her lashes along with the nagging thought of not figuring out the hell of what happened began to loosen the grip Bucky had once had around her.

“No Buck, don’t play me for a fool.” She pauses, “I know how Sam shouts when he drops something.”

Now Y/N had Bucky into a muttering mess, as he struggled to find the words to try and say to cover up the obvious sabotage to the entire plan, and his own plan of finally being able to pursue Y/N. He didn’t even know how to stop Y/N’s head for trying to make sense of the oddly misplaced mishap of hearing something she wasn’t supposed to hear.

Empty. With the circular sound of a bowl, probably plastic from the emanating sound not likewise to the sound of glass. And a voice from a man which seems out of place for an empty room?

“A-and I know what he dropped, and where he is.” Bucky, for once, hated how smart Y/N was and for not listening to Thor enough to not underestimate this woman’s intelligence.

He also hated how Sam, though not surprisingly, has ruined practically everything.

“I better check that out.”

Bucky had not realized that Y/N already had slipped from under his arms and making her way slowly towards the hallway, but he instinctively glid in front of her, which took her aback.

“I-I don’t think you should.” Y/N at first could vaguely make out of his nervous grin

“Bucky…” She raised her brows questioningly, “…why are you blocking me?”

Fuck. Bucky knew that he was the one on the hot seat right at that moment. He could do nothing but shrug sheepishly, something that one doesn’t usually see out of a mysterious assassin like him.

“I-I uh it well…” He was beginning to feel sweaty when Y/N crossed her arms in suspicion, “…I-It could be an…intruder! Yeah uhm, an intruder that sounds like Sam!”

Now Bucky was beginning to sound so silly. This had Y/N remembering that one time he broke one of Tony’s extremely fragile coffee machines that was just freshly manufactured out of his own hands. She could see every lie grow sillier and sillier each time it passes through his quivering lips. The same manner she was seeing right in front of her.

It finally clicked in her head.

“Ohhhh…you’re not hiding something, are you?” A grin began creeping up her lips, “On my birthday?”

“Noooo…” Bucky’s voice trailed off into a whisper with a tilt of his head to the right. Lie.

“You are. I’m checking whatever you hid down there right now.”

The surprise was officially 90% ruined.

“Y/N-NO!”

By then Bucky’s adrenaline response dialed up to 11. As Y/N abruptly turned her body away from him, in a split second his metal arm jerked to grab Y/N by her wrist, earning a loud pained gasp from her, and the rest began to happen in a quick blur.

She wasn’t even able to let a curse slip through her lips when Bucky had tugged her arm towards him and had her body colliding on his and his lips landing right on hers. Y/N was extremely startled at what just happened, but when it began to sink into her that she was being kissed by Bucky Barnes, having to feel his lips that was surprisingly so soft and warm, she soon felt her tensed body instantly ease into his arms tracing its way to take all over her frame.  

Bucky had made it sure to move his lips in a pace enough for her to slowly fall into a trance. He too, soon began to realize he was kissing Y/N. At first his movements were hastened, still wanting to make sure that she wasn’t too startled or uncomfortable. Until he felt her returning the kiss with a long moan vibrating against his lips, and Bucky loved it.

In moments, he soon had his arms wrapped tightly around her waist, feeling his cheeks flush at the feeling of her body pulled closer and moving against his. And the way she was responding with hitched breaths and moans drove him to deliver as much as he can to keep his growing crave for more of her intoxicating touch.

“Buck…” her shaky breath could barely mutter at the uncontrollable feeling of falling back into his lip-lock.

“Sshhh…” He whispered against her mouth, as his still ached for more to kiss her back again.

At each second that passed they both felt the immense heat rising between them and they could both hardly keep it at bay. Just as Y/N was about to push him over the edge and tackle him down, he clung onto her body and let the spur of the moment drive her back against the wall with a loud thud. He felt her shudder when he deepens the kiss while grazing his tongue on her lips,  and had her chasing him back in a silent beg to never leave them. And damn how he tasted so good.

It wasn’t until he could sense her arms wrapping around his neck with a few grips of his locks here and there when he kissed her just right to make a deep growl of content rumble right through his chest and onto hers. He chuckles softly and responds with his hands gliding down to reach for her legs and had her lifted with ease, earning another low moan of his name at his has tracing every curve of her thigh. Bucky was practically melting into this tight embrace of deep endearment between them, and he wished Y/N was just as pleased as she should be on her special day.

This was different. Not because he completely forgot that this was all a distraction plan, but because by then he could only feel the pure, raw feeling both of them had for each other in this sweet chase of ecstasy between them that had his heart thumping fast against hers, and he could hear their heartbeats as one. It wasn’t a distraction plan, it was real.

Midway into the moment escalating, he felt his lungs gasp for air and only then was able to pry himself away from her, but just ever so slightly still near enough to see the way her flushed lips puffed from all that irresistible kissing.

“Y/N…” He wasn’t sure if what had him breathless was either the kiss or her lovely features glowing in a way he hasn’t seen before.

“Damn…” She whispered as she tried to catch her breath, looking at Bucky in that way that had his mouth tickling with a growing smile, “…you hid that from me all this time? Where was I a few months ago?”

“I-I thought you didn’t like me.” He grinned sheepishly having only that excuse to say.

A loud, almost too scandalized gasp escapes her agape mouth to which Bucky found too amusing to suppress his heartfelt laughter, “Not like you?! Especially now that I know you kiss like that? Lies!”

Bucky’s laughter, once it filled her ears sounding like sweet music, it had her contagiously doing the same. And man, could he listen to her delight all day. As the laughter died down, his eyes simmered back lovingly in a gaze that admired that smile of hers, and knowing it was because of him had the same smile that felt like warm sunshine on her.  

“Oh Bucky…” She coos softly, cupping his cheeks in her hands while letting her thumbs softly brush against his skin, “…I…I do like you. Hell, I think I’m falling in love with you.”

Bucky let out a breathy gasp at feeling his heart dance around the words it wished to hear. “You do?”

“So much.”  She whispers back with every word coated with endearment, “I had no idea you felt the same way. I was beginning to think you didn’t.”

“God I do love you.” His voice grows deeper in a way Y/N knew he meant what he said.

“I was just having a hard time to accept the fact that I was flustering head over heels for you. I just didn’t know what to say. I thought I wasn’t good enough for you. So I tried to keep my distance, and you just seemed to agree to it, so I went along with it. But fuck, you were just too beautiful with your pretty little eyes, your enchanting laughter, your bright smile, your gorgeous figure; I-I  tried so many damn times to break the barrier, because I could barely stand the thought that you were slipping away from my hands. But this…”

He gently tucks away a strand of her hair behind her ear, to get a better view of those dazzling eyes that was the first thing that drew him to believe he had a crush on her, “…you. Right here in my arms. I wish I could’ve done something earlier to get this lovely view of you near me sooner. Seeing every single bit of who you are this close, it just, it takes my breath away.”

Y/N felt so touched with his genuine endearment, it had her barely struggling to find the words that could amount to his poetic lines.

“I still can’t believe that someone so amazing like you would love someone like me back.” Bucky shakes his head affectionately with a warm smile, but Y/N felt the trail of doubt leaving from his mouth.

“Do I have to kiss you again to convince you that I do?” She wiggled her brows at him suggestively, and he liked the way she did that.

“Oddly, I’m tempted doll.” Y/N giggles at the touch of his nose on hers.

She takes a moment to pause and just savor at that man’s gorgeous features. It was radiating with a calmer aura, something she found herself feeling at home at. And she grew fond of the way his smile was adoring her, getting one for the take and press a quick gentle kiss on to steal it from his. It was still her birthday anyway, might as well take more than just a taste.

“So all this.” She says as she pulls away, “All this was some sort of a distraction plan?”

There was actually no more point to argue for Bucky, since it wasn’t his fault she had it figured out. “Yeah yeah…I uh, actually didn’t expect it to work too well.”

“For a moment, you did get me with that hot bod of yours.” Y/N admitted with a playful bite of her lip. “And that was Sam I heard?”

“I think the entire team’s pissed off at him right now, let’s just leave him be.”

“So it was a surprise party!”

He blinked at her smart guess. “Y-Yeah, you got us.”

“And the entire team is in here!”

And oddly, he loved the way she was so proud and giddy of her achievement in finding out herself. Damn, a confident Y/N close to him was better than a bashful one from afar.  “I didn’t know you were this enigmatic.”

“And I didn’t know you didn’t know that I knew and blah blah blah blah…” To this Bucky chuckled at. There were too many words apart from Y/N and Bucky’s lips that she decided to dismiss all the talk and press her lips once more onto his, missing the way it felt so good a while ago.

This one was a sweeter version of what they shared from before. It was a sort of deep acknowledgement between them, now that all confusion was gone and nothing but deep affection for each other was blossoming in their chest and through their lips. To which Y/N hummed in delight to, since she finally got that only present she’s been wanting all day long, that whatever party she or the team had planned wasn’t at the top of her priority list for the day.

Because all she had her head wrapped around was all on him. All on him.

“Oh wait, that reminds me.” A thought pops up in his head when she pulls away momentarily, “You should still go in that room and see what the team has prepared for you. Pretend to act surprised for Sam’s sake.”

“Awww do I have to?” She whines with a pout of her lips like a child would on her birthday, “Can’t that wait until later? It’s my birthday anyway and I get to choose what I want to doooo…”

“Why? Do you have something important to do?”

Y/N was amused at Bucky’s cluelessness to her small hints. She lets out a small giggle before biting her lip to give him a head start. “You, you silly idiot.”

“Ooohhh…”

The moment Bucky gets it he bites his lips playfully as well, scrunching his nose at Y/N’s smooth line. He was glad to grant the birthday girl’s wish at the sight of another door leading to a spare bedroom. And how he was turned on by the way Y/N looked right at him that sent his mind wandering to intimate thoughts shared with her body all over his. He couldn’t careless of the initial plan and had his impatience drove his arms to swiftly carry her towards the said room.

“Well then, wait until you unwrap my present to you.” He purrs against her ear, giving it a little nudge before pressing her back against the door. “Fuck, I love you Y/N.”

“I love you to Bucky…” Y/N felt a shiver run down her spine at the sound of his raspy voice, grinning to herself at the thought of such a surprising gift, “…Happy fucking birthday to me.”

And just like that, Bucky did not waste his time with her any longer and had his hand grasping for the doorknob as the other quickly pulls her in for a hungrier kiss she finds herself sinking back into. And they let themselves fall into each other’s embrace, their thoughts playing into reality with intimate touches at the close of the door.

--- BONUS: ---

“Took him damn long enough.” Sam chuckles at finding out that their friend finally made his move.

"If it wasn't for you fucking it all up with that popcorn bowl you ‘accidentally’ dropped." Tony rolls his eyes, something that Sam dismisses annoyingly at. “Wanda clearly warned you to duck.”

"What's the word on the lovebirds Wanda?" Clint leans in closer to Wanda, who had her thoughts linked to hear both Y/N's and Bucky's.

She only gasps with a cheeky grin on her face as a response. To this the whole team had known what was spiraling down from the sound of the door across theirs slamming shut.

"Lucky punk." Steve shakes his head, to which Bruce gives an acknowledging pat on his back with a chuckle.

"So much for the package." Tony sighs. "And the party."

"I taught him well." Natasha helped herself to a smug grin.

"Lady Y/L/N's fantasies finally came true." Thor wriggles his eyebrows in agreement to Natasha.

"Are we still pushing through with this party?" Wanda could barely suppress her amused giggles, shutting off her powers to give the two enraptured lovers their privacy. "They seem very engrossed in whatever they're doing."

"Welp, seems like this party's postponed." He knew that look on Wanda's face, Clint knew. "The distraction plan did work but their having a little party of their own now."

  ++++

Heeyyy guys!! So wow, this one had a whopping 5k+ words. It really took a long LONG process to finally have my head click with the right words and plot. But again, I’m so happy with the overwhelming response to the first part. THANK YOU as well for reading this imagine and for the support. Here’s to more imagines! <333

BUCKY BARNES DESERVES BETTER I AM NOT CEASING TO SCREAM THIS EVERYWHERE

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TAGLIST (for this fic) (permanent ones are still OPEN)

@hottrashformarvel @captainam-erika-trash @marvelandothers @karmezii @5-seconds-of-sarcasmm @hippieballs @totorosbooty @wisestydia-15 @faakelanadelrey

[7wanderingpaws]

3. OCEAN'S DEPTH.

Genre: marine biologist AU

Pairing: Bambam x reader

Word count: 2.2K

0. Synopsis // 1. Whales // 2. Dolphins. // 3. Ocean's depth.

(( I apologise for the long wait, it was not planned at all. Uni is in full swing, I am in my final year so the thesis writing is giving me a little headache. I hope this part will still be somehow enjoyable! Please let me know your thoughts! ))

- - - OCEAN'S DEPTH - - - 

You were tapping your foot against the warm pavement the next day in the docks. The weather was still shiny, pleasant and ever so welcoming.

You were supposed to have a good mood, considering all of these aspects.

You felt like a piece of a rotten tuna tin.

Exactly like rotten tuna tin, whatever it was supposed to mean.

"Where is he?!" you shouted angrily to your two colleagues who were looking bored and kept murmuring among each other, snickering quietly.

"Calm down," said Jaebeom and pressed the side button on his iPhone to check the time. He pushed it back into his back pocket of his jeans. "His late just 15 minutes."

Jackson laughed in disbelief. "Just 15 minutes."

You glued your strict stare at the cheerful man and he just shook his head, not bothering to talk to you more.

"Well, if he isn't coming in five more minutes, we are leaving."

"But boss, even if we leave in five minutes we will still be there 30 minutes early," replied Jaebeom in a diplomatic tone.

Jackson snickered again.

You sighed, combing your hand through your already messy hair. "Are you making fun of me? Do you think this is funny?"

"No, not at all, " replied Jaebeom, coughing away his giggle.

"Look, " you started, holding your hand out." You can think whatever you want to, but the fact is that we should be there a little bit earlier to make sure everything goes smoothly. As you can see, this duck head is late anyway. This is why we have to be there a little bit earlier."

"A little bit, " mumbled Jackson to himself.

Jaebeom started to laugh loudly, not bothering to hold back anymore.

As much as you liked to see your forever cold and reserved colleagues laugh, you did not appreciate it one bit at the moment.

" Shut up, Jackson, " you snapped. " You don't let me breathe even for a little while right? You always have to push me down."

He looked at your hurt face and before he could argue in any possible way, from the distance you hear rushed steps and a very tired looking Bambam. He was trying to adjust his bag on his shoulder as his hair was a big mess.

"I'm here! I'm coming! Oh, thanks for waiting for me!" he breathed as he finally arrived.

"Good." You turned around and marched forward towards the kindergarten that you hated so much at the moment. Youngjae was going to pay a big price for letting his mouth talk so much.

If Jackson were a dog, he would have his ears pressed to the sides of his head, his tail between his legs and lowered head. There wasn't a minute when you wouldn't fight these days despite how hard and cold you both were to each other.

He still wouldn't tell you what was pissing him off so much about you and you certainly didn't want to ask about that kind of thing. This way you were aware you were annoying him and that was more than enough.

You all made your way to the kindergarten and to your pleasure, you were quickly ushered in, the kids already waiting.

"Soon is never soon enough, Dr Im," you muttered to Jaebeom. Before he could retort something too sophisticated for you, you turned quickly to your team, mostly focusing your attention to your two colleagues rather than Bambam who was smiling the whole time as he was observing the kids' drawings. "Alright, we literally have like five minutes to discuss whose gonna talk about what-"

"Y/N," you heard your name. Youngjae's mum was standing next to you, her frame tall and her facial features kind. "I'm afraid you will have to go in now. The kids are waiting and they are restless."

"Yes but-"

"Alright, then there is no time to waste!" shouted Bambam, suddenly paying attention and soon he was entering the little hall kids had there for their performances.

Jackson snickered as he followed Jaebeom and BamBam. "So much for authority, huh."

A tiny growl escaped your lips, startling you. Damn. Now the game was on. You would ruin Jackson for sure.

The kids greeted you politely, most of them curiously looking at the blonde haired Bam.

While Jaebeom looked uncomfortable and seemed like dying inside from the attention, Jacskon was also naturally swayed with the kids as he was smiling brightly, waving at them.

"Everyone, let me introduce you these marine biologists," started Youngjae's mother, her voice a pleasant baritone. "Dr Y/N is The leader of the marine research institute here in Mokpo and Dr Jackson and Dr Jaebeom are her colleagues, great experts. Dr Bambam is a world famous marine biologist from Thailand so make sure to treat him with respect."

"Are we considered trash next to him?" muttered Jackson as he had his bright smile plastered on his face.

You bumped your elbow into his ribs quite hardly which made him wince with surprise. He widened his eyes at you, but you had a stern look already focused on the wall opposite you.

"Now I will let our biologists take over the talking and please participate actively!"

Youngjae's mum nodded at you with a supportive smile and you made sure to thank kindly before reaching for the microphone. "Hello, everyone! I'm Y/N and I would like to start with a question for all of you. Please raise your hands if you want to talk, alright?" you asked with a thumb up but when you didn't get any feedback you laughed awkwardly. "Alright! So, what do you understand under marine biology or marine research?"

You had a weird feeling these questions were not exactly meant for such a young audience as these four-year-olds who barely knew their mother's name but you were serious about doing your job professionally.

One little boy in the front row raised his hand shyly. "I think you work with dolphins."

You swayed your head from side to side. "Yes, could be also."

"That's totally true!" exclaimed Bambam. "And you know what? Let me tell you something that I'm sure you didn't know about whales." The way he was talking made kids much more interested compared to the poker faces they were giving you.

"The whales are these veeery big animals, right?" asked Bambam, motioning with his hands. "We also call them mammals.They can be much bigger than this whole kindergarten! And the important thing to know about them is that their poop is needed for the ocean's ecosystem."

You snapped your head to Bambam, not liking the direction he was going. On the other side Jaebeom and Jackson were also listening as intently as the kids.

"So how exactly does this work, hm? Well, when the whales poop it's really big and can create a big mess." Kids started to laugh, supported by Bambam. "Their poop contains lots of important microscopic creatures that are beneficial for other fish! For instance, phytoplankton is a crucial part of the ocean's ecosystem and some underwater animals live off of it."

"Eeeeeeeeew," kids whined but laughed loudly, scrunching up their noses.

BamBam laughed too, extremely pleased with himself. Jackson and Jaebeom had a light grin, also liking the playful way Bam introduces whale's poop.

"Another thing we have to watch out for are coral reefs," started Jackson his part. The k god it was an appropriate topic. "Do you know what are coral reefs right?"

There was a lady sitting by with a laptop who screened pictures on the big wall so the kids could see. She typed quickly into Naver search engine the keywords and all of you were met with colourful fish and massive corals. It made you smile right away and Jackson went up to the picture and tried to simplify the information about the coral reefs.

“They are extremely endagered. You know Nemo, right? Well, he also lives in these coral reefs. However, Nemo cannot cope with warm water. That is what causes these reefs to die out - warmed up temperatures.”

All of you continued with your presentations, trying to engage children as much as possible and at the end having a nice little quiz (with a rewarding present too!).

Jaebeom was breaking jokes about sea horses that you tried not to cringe about but thanks to Bambam, he supported every idea. It almost seemed like he knew only the silly stuff and not the important information.

After you were finished, you stopped Bam on your way out, so that Jackson and Jaebeom wouldn't hear you.

"Can we go diving today?" you spilled.

If Bambam was surprised, he didn't show it. Instead a signature smile spread across his face. "Well of course , boss. But I made a reservation at this five star restaurant you have in this little town so I will go there first."

You sighed, trying not to show your frustration. "Look. You shouldn't eat before diving especially not with the depth of our diving. Secondly, I thought you came here to help, not try all these so call five star restaurants."

BamBam laughed, tapping your shoulder. "should I cancel because of you, Y/N?"

"Exactly my idea," you smiled, walking past him.

He was quick to grab your hand though. "How will you refund me this loss?"

"What? What do you mean?"

"Well, you know how important I hold my luxury living. Since I'm going to sacrifice it for you, I hope it will be rewarding at least." His hand trailed over your arm, teasing you.

By now you knew better than to take his ideas seriously. "Well, heated kissing under the water, how does that sound."

Bam laughed tapping you shoulder. "Good enough, girl, good enough."

You couldn’t believe your own words. Your own mouth. Your own tongue. heated kissing under the water?! There was a sudden urge for you to slap yourself as you were heading to the docks to meet Bambam. How on earth could be this cheesy?

You knew Bam was not serious half of the time and even though he did tell you some good things about the marine biology and how to lead this entire expedition, there was just something slightly off. Whenever someone had a really professional question, he would suddenly go quiet, dissing the question with a simple answer that didn’t really add to your knowledge.

When you entered the docks with all your equipment, you were surprised to find him already there. He seemed deep in thought, his uniform already on.

You paused for moment, thinking what to do.

Set your goals straight...

There was no doubt you needed this guy for you to find the creature. He had all the knowledge. Apparently...

“How was it when you found out people know you?” you walked towards him, a challenging smile on your burned face. “And why would you talk about whale poop anyway.”

Bambam smirked as he turned towards you, his full attention now on you. “How else do you want to get the kids attention if not with something silly.”

“Good for you it was a true fact what you said,” you replied, putting on your swimming gear.

“I only say things that are true,” he murmured, eyeing you up.

A blush creeped up into your cheeks as you zipped up the uniform on your back. You both checked whether the equipment you had was prepared for the dive. “I sure hope so.”

“So the kissing part,” he started.

You held out your hand quickly. “Stop right there. I didn’t mean any of that.”

“And here I thought you liked me.”

“I do,” you said without thinking and immediately closed your mouth in pure shock. What did you just say?!

“You do?” he asked, his eyes full of hope.

You blinked a few times, hiding behind one of the oxygen bombs. “What? I mean I like the weather today.”

Bambam burst out into fit of laughters. “You are actually super cute, you know that? You play all this hardly approached girl but you are such a softie.”

“That is some good load of whale poop,” a doubtful laughter was the only thing you could let out. “Anyway, let’s go already. It’s gonna be super dark in a few.”

“Yes, that’s the point of night diving.”

As you walked passed him, you turned sharply, facing him. “Listen, Bambam. Whatever it is you are thinking, stop it. And just so you know, I have my eyes on you.”

He wiggled his eyebrows at you, obviously not taking you seriously but you just sighed and headed towards the little stairs leading into the water. It wasn’t until you reached the edge and you slipped on it that you felt his hands around your waist. You yelped feeling him pulling you backwards. It made him slip almost as well but he managed to keep a strong stance making sure you are steady.

You stayed like that for a few more seconds before your heart beat could simmer down to a normal rate. Slowly turning around, you saw Bambam’s gentle face. His eyes were already on you when you met his gaze. His hand reached out and slowly pushed your messy hair out of your face before his index finger slipped under your chin, sending goosebumps down your spine.

You didn’t realise you were holding your breath until his face was inching closer to yours.

Oh no.

What was he doing?!

 <3

[marshaeb]

P.S: I'm Mated With The Cursed Alpha!

Chapter Seven

Hey guy! Don’t forget to Like, Comment, Review, and Follow for more updates! My apologies in advance for all the grammatical errors. Book will be professionally edited when completed.

After all that had just transpired, I was expecting Mom to blow up on me as soon as we stepped through the door, but her behavior was quite different. She was quiet and calm as she sat at the cleared dining table, looking through a pile of paperwork.

My heart was in my gut... I didn’t know how to feel or what to say after all the mess I got us in. I stood there timidly, with my sore, wounded arm covered with blood, held up to my chest.

I was a total mess. You’d swear I’d been out scuffling with Chelsea and her clique the way that I looked. Bloody and drench from wetting it up and my hair was a tousled fro of fluff.

“Um, Mom...” I said quietly...almost too quietly.

She paused and gave me a hard stare.

“I-I just want to say I’m sorry Mom...” I sniffle. “I-I didn’t mean for things to happen the way it did tonight... He attacked me out of nowhere—

“Nah uh... Stop it right there!” She said sternly. “How many times have I told you, Joel? For once listen to me when I talk to you! All I wanted was to keep you away from danger... from allowing something like this to happen! Still, you disobeyed me and snuck out!”

“But, Mom I-I’m sorry... I-I could explain—

“What’s left to explain, dear?” She said. “Everything has already happened... though I hate to even think this way, but probably this was meant to be... probably this all explains the reason for your rebellious behavior... it was to led you to him.”

“No Mom... This is all coincidental... that’s it!” I said feeling my wound starting to burn. “That’s all it is.”

“Do you really think so?” She asked in a shaky voice. “I saw something you didn’t see...”

“Saw what mama?” I asked confusedly.

“That look in his eyes... The way he looked at you.” She said. “You don’t know how it feels yet... The first time you smell your mate... it hits you like the strongest substance there is... It drives you crazy! Almost like you’re losing your mind... Why did you think he did what he did and attack you...not wanting to let you go!”

My mind instantly went back to St. Pete’s. When he saw me from across the room. I just popped off and came at me full force.

“Mom...what can I do?” I begged her.

“What can you do?” She repeated with no hope in her voice. “Joel, there’s nothing you...or I can do right now...but to wait to see where your future lies on your eighteen birthday.”

“B-but Jackson!” I said feeling my whole world crumbling down around me. “What am I supposed to—

“Jackson has been sent on a three-month mission in the west...” She said, “and for one thing...thank heavens he’s not here, because things would have been even more disastrous if Alpha Darius found out that his potential mate has a boyfriend.”

I took in sharp deep breaths and embraced myself tightly. ’I don’t want Jackson to get hurt...” I mumbled.

“Then I suggest you do the safest thing there is...keep your mouth shut and don’t mention his name.” Mom said. “By the time he’s back from his mission, you will by then know who your potential mate will be.”

“But...but my birthday is in three months, Mom...what will I do then?” I asked. “The hospital is out of our territory...”

“I know...which is why I’m busy trying to set things up for your safety,” Mom said. “And that’s tripling security too.”

A look of confusion crossed my face.

“But... I am safe! I’m on our territory!” I said.

Mom stopped and gave me a dead stare. “You really don’t know who you’re messing with, do you?”

I swallowed deeply. The guy’s crazier than I thought.

“A powerful Alpha, who have been searching seven years for his mate... has finally found her by sheer luck.” Mom said. “Could you imagine how hungry he is for you? Do you think a hot-blooded, superior Alpha like him could resist his mate?”

I stood there quietly as reality began to settle in.

“I doubt it...” She continued. “I’ll exchange you from the hospital for a little while with Samantha at the preschool... It’s only for blocks away from our home and it’s properly guarded.”

“The Nursery?” I gasped. “Mom... I’m not a caretaker.”

“It’s either that or risk yourself being at the hospital.” She said. “I don’t think you understand what it is to be marked Joel... and it’s different from an Alpha. It’s like volts of uncontrollable pleasure, rushing through your body... like venom. When he claims you, a part of him lives inside you forever.”

I could hear the intensity in her voice... Just hearing her explain it made me tremble with fear.

“So...until then...we wait,” she said. “Now go and take a bath. I’ll call over a nurse to patch up your wound.”

She walked back over to her desk and continued to sort through her paperwork.

After reaching upstairs to my room, Talloc was nowhere to be found like always. She was out hunting.

The sounds of howls rippled through the dark forest, but it was chilling and wretched. It was the cursed Alpha’s, and I know he was somewhere in the dark eerie forest, watching me at this very moment.

~~~~~~~~

~Present Day~

About a week has passed and I’ve been staying indoors ever since. My wound was healing faster than I thought it would, but the soreness was still there.

Nobody knew about what had taken place that night. Mom made sure of that. But just being here, trapped indoors had me so paranoid. Overthinking about everything that has happened and the consequences that would happen to me if I slip up again.

I really miss having those privileges when I could move about and enjoy my freedom. Now that I’m thinking about it, I rather have Mom’s strict curfew any day than being locked up from Alpha Darius.

My mind kept going on Jackson... I wanted him here with me. To comfort me and tell me what I needed to hear. That I am his mate and this is all one big misunderstanding, but sadly, it wasn’t.

A few months from now, I might be Mated to a man I barely even know. It saddens me to even think Jackson and I wouldn’t be together like we hoped, but to a man overly possessive Alpha who attacked me and nearly capture me against my will.

And he won’t leave me alone. Ever since that dreadful night, he has been stalking me almost every night.

His huge black wolf is always there...in that same spot in the woods... watching my room. He’s driving me insane. It was as if he’s waiting for any moment for me to slip up.

This feeling is like being on death row... knowing a terrible fate awaits you.

Talloc suddenly flew into the window I left open for her, nearly scaring my trouble soul half to death.

“Talloc!” I gasped, holding my chest. “You scared me, girl.”

She rolled her neck and squawk back at me.

“Did you had fun hunting last night?” I said to her, trying to wipe off the drop of blood from her beak.

And as you guessed right, she wasn’t gonna just let me step up to her and clean her beak without being defensive. She pecked my finger softly, holding it in her mouth.

“Come on, Talloc...just because you older now doesn’t mean I-I can’t clean you up just a little,” I said, but it was hopeless.

My rebellious snowy owl flew off in one huge flap, dropping the stack of pictures and old letters out of the window.

“No!” I shouted, running over to the window as they scattered everywhere across the lawn. “Shit!”

I turn around to catch my breath.

“Urgh...Talloc! Damn that feisty bird!” I grunted. “My pictures...they all fell over! I have to get them before they all get ruined.”

I threw on my navy denim jacket and dashed to my room door, but then I suddenly remembered that it wasn’t safe...he could be out there.

Though I’m still safe on the territory,

I’m just beyond paranoid to even encounter him again, face to face. Plus mom had already warned me, for my own sake to keep my distance.

I can’t make a fool of myself again... and for Mom’s sake, I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I embarrassed her even more than I already did.

A deep, anxious sigh left my lips as I thought about this situation I’m now faced with. All the memories I collected would be completely ruined if they’re exposed too long.

Deep down in my heart, I wanted to dash out there this instant and collect every last one of them, but my mind had me in fear. Reminding me that he could be out there, but can he really during the daytime?

Usually, he comes out during the evenings just to let me know he’s watching and waiting...and it pisses me off, but maybe...just maybe I might have a chance.

It won’t take long...

I breathed in sharply when I suddenly remembered that Jackson’s letter from back in the eleventh grade was in that stack! That was the time he officially asked me to be his girlfriend...and our pictures!

“I have to get them!” I breathed heavily, walking back in forth in my room. “I better get all of them now...before the wind blows them out of the territory. Then he’ll find those photos with us!”

I crept back over towards my window and slowly, but thoroughly surveyed the grounds for any sign of his black wolf or any of his minions. Surprisingly...there was no sign of him at all.

I was right... Maybe he really does pass through during the evenings. And there’s also those painful, silver Barb wires Mom has up to keep out any intruders. It looks safe enough and besides all my pictures are on the lawn.

“SHIT!” I exclaimed. “No, no, no, NO!”

One of them fell on the other side. Oh Moon goddess, why?!

I crunch down against the window post, breathing shakily. My nerves were taking over and I could feel my throat getting drier and drier by the second!

What the hell! Everything bad is happening to me lately and unfortunately, there is no way to run from it or avoid it. I literally hate my life now.

I held in my breath and slowly took another look out the window. Carefully I observed the proximity of the others to that one that was out of bounds.

My eyes glanced over across the forest once more. I used my sharp wolf senses to pick up if he was out there... Usually, the hairs on my arm would stand up if I sensed him...but it so happens that I didn’t feel anything. There is also no sign of him...so it should be safe!

It has to be! But I have to be cautious and as prompt as possible.

With every fear building up inside me, I pushed it aside, balling my hand into a tight fist, and ran downstairs as quickly as I can.

As soon as I step to the backdoor, my heart launched in my throat. It was now or never.

I turn the doorknob and haul my tail towards the scattered images and letters. My mind was so numb, I felt like falling out from the fear and anxiety if he caught me.

Almost done... Just the other four over there in the flower bed. I quickly ran over and collected them. All in accounted for, except that one. It was just a few inches on the other side.

I held the stack against my chest as I scan the rattling trees of the forest. It was so calm but daunting. If whatever, he might be out there.

I’d dread the day if it happens to be a personal picture of me and Jackson and he gets his hold on it before I do.

Shit! I can’t take this anymore! I have to get that now! I rest the others down and gradually inched my way over. As I reach the barbed wire fence, my supply of oxygen was growing thin. The amount of fear of cutting my windpipe was unbearable.

I licked my lips and lengthened my short arm slowly over. It was so close, but yet so far.

Just a flick of my nail, it scraped the tip. No matter how hard I try, it was useless. Until I started to lose my temper, unleashing my inner wolf as my nails lengthen into claws.

Finally, I latched onto it, but with all that concentration... I let my guard down. I should have known better!

His huge black wolf jumped out of nowhere and dashed over to snatch my hand..but once again, I lucky to pull back my hand right in time.

For a second I felt my heart stop and I swear I mess up myself.

He licked his huge tongue over his sharp teeth and stared down at me like a piece of meat. I tried to catch my breath as I look at the picture underneath his large paw.

What was he doing here? Doesn’t he have a pack to lead? Was he there all this time? Watching me...waiting for the right moment to strike. Mom was right, it’s really not safe for me at all.

I quickly dashed over, collecting the others, and ran back inside up to the room.

I closed my curtains from the outside. I just couldn’t bear it anymore...but what picture was that? There we’re words written behind it!

I sorted through the stack of pictures and letters. Jackson’s letter is here... Thank Goodness it wasn’t that!

As I continued to go through, all we’re present... except that one!

“Our one-year anniversary, Christmas Eve collage! SHIT!”

Read Chapter Eight (Click the link below)

[illusion-of-sea-axes]

Party Crashers

Assasins Gavin Free and Michael Jones are hired to take out a politician at a fundraiser.

(This is a sort of mix between my Eleven Little Roosters AU and their Hitman Immersion video.)

Words:  2517

Ten Little Roosters, all gathered to dine.

One choked on his rage, and then there were nine.

“You look rather top, Mikey.” Gavin murmured, smiling as he readjusted Michael’s red face mask. His own was a pale green that made it difficult to see his dark green-hazel eyes underneath.

“As do you.” The other man, Michael, replied and he straightened out Gavin’s black bow tie. Or at least, he pretended too.

“Although, it is a shame you have to hide those freckles.” He stepped back to observe Michael, who wore a simple dark blue shirt that proudly proclaimed support for some stupid politician named Mike Hawk. Or as Michael called him, Sir Cock. Gavin wore a similar shirt.

The two readjusted their own wigs. Gavin’s was a more vibrant shade of blonde and was smoothed down backwards. Michael’s was a light shade of a similar blonde and hid his dark curls well.

He was also wearing contacts, since the mask didn’t grant him space to wear his glasses as usual. He was alright with that though.

The two linked arms and walked out of the small abandoned room and approached the elevators. Both of them checking each other over. Whether it was because they wanted to confirm their partner was well disguised or for some other personal reason, you wouldn’t know.

The elevator was empty as it rose them up to their destination.

“Ready?” Gavin asked his partner. Obviously it seemed so, but he liked to ask him before the two officially began their job.

“Absolutely.” Michael answered back confidently, just as the doors opened.

The two slipped out into a hallway, merging with a crowd of people as they entered a grand party room with a podium set up in front of a large blue banner matching the design of the shirts which every other attendee was wearing.

“Alright.. How many people will be attending this fundraiser?”

“From what I’ve seen, over two hundred attendees. I wasn’t able to get an exact number.”

“That’s a lot.”

“Yeah, a lot of people to hide behind.”

The only differences among the crowds were the security guards, who wore ear pieces and black overcoats, and the waiters who wore red blazers.

Michael had heard that the security guards were all armed with tasers, and he was sure he could see the outlines of them in their pockets.

In Michael’s own pocket was a sticker and some dissolving poison pills. The sticker had a toxic compound mixed into the adhesive that would seep into the bloodstream within moments.

“How much security are we dealing with?”

“Five. Two upstairs, two downstairs and a bodyguard for Mike Hawk.”

Michael glanced over to Gavin as the two entered the room, pausing by a pillar with a table full of glasses of champagne. He knew full well he had to keep an eye on Gavin. The brit was well known to get drunk when able and that was difficult when on a job.

“To Mike Hawk!” Gavin and Michael cheered as Mike Hawk went on with his speech, clinking their glasses together and then downing their drinks in one swig. One glass or two wouldn’t hurt.

Gavin seemed to think it meant he was allowed to drink more than that.

After Michael set down his empty glass, Gavin took another glass, downed that one, and picked up another to repeat the process.

“Hey, I’m gonna scope out the area real quick.” Michael whispered before walking around his partner to peer at the room they had been informed was the security office. He quickly turned back to his partner as Gavin downed a fourth glass. “Shit, we have a guy standing right outside the security office.”

Gavin picked up another glass. “Let’s just mingle until he clears out.” Michael answered and Gavin handed him two glasses of champagne.

 “Wanna double this?”

“Yeah, yeah, this looks normal. Let’s just get shit faced,” Michael answered, downing one of the glasses while Gavin picked up two more for himself.

Gavin took this moment to take notice that Michael’s british accent was fading. It had been stronger, maybe stronger than Gavin’s, back when they still shared the same body and even after they had first been separated. Of course, this was due to Gavin being the main conscience and not Michael.

The original Michael, as Gavin was told, had not been British and was instead raised in the states. A long way from where Gavin had started his assasin’s career in the United Kingdom. Although, Gavin wasn’t going to complain.

“Alright, he’s moving..” Michael murmured, setting down his second glass. “I’m going in, boi. Watch my back” He whispered and casually walked over where the guard had been before. Gavin wasn’t sure why, but they had started referring to each other as bois. Something Geoff said the original two of them had done often.

Before they were murdered, of course.

 “This is how you champagne.” Gavin poured one of the glasses into another and held it up, causally following Michael. He noticed the guard speaking into his earpiece. He managed to catch ‘position’ and ‘circulating’ but didn’t try to listen too much as he walked away and gave Michael an opportunity to slip into the security office.

Michael wasn’t sure what he expected. The office was small and clearly in need of some proper maintenance. It had several fold able-leg tables stacked in the corner. It seemed more like a storage closet than a maintenance office.

The man smirked as he saw two guard uniforms (black overcoats with a white shirt underneath on a plastic fold-out table, two knives settled beside them.

“These are nice.” Michael murmured, stripping off his facial disguise so it would be easier for him to slip on the uniform. “Maybe I should steal these..” The fabric was smooth and the inside was soft and comfortable. Then again, these guys stood in one position for hours so he wasn’t sure what to expect.

Quickly, he buttoned the overcoat and slipped his mask and wig back on. He picked up one of the knives and dropped it into his overcoat pocket before readjusted his facial disguise one more time to be safe.

Quietly as possible, he slipped through the doors and took a quick look around. However, Gavin wasn’t anywhere in sight.

Michael cursed in his head and closed the doors, approaching the top of the stairway to look down on the crowd in hopes of finding his partner.

Another guard was approaching, likely to change position, and Michael quickly slipped out of his way as inconspicuous as possible.

Taking on the stance that the guards had (crossing their arms in front of them), Michael slowly approached the crowd, doing his best to hide his mounting frustration. They may be partners, but this was an annoyingly common occurrence. He internally made a promise to murder him, even though he’d never be able to do it, it made him feel slightly better.

Michael slowly shifted back up the stairs as the guard moved away again. He was surprised (and relieved) to see Gavin standing in the corner. For a moment, Gavin tensed at the sight of Michael before realizing it was his partner and not an actual security guard.

“Thank god, I was worried you got drunk and ran off somewhere to do something stupid.”

“Have a little faith in me, Mikey.” Gavin casually replied, sipping from what was probably his eighth champagne glass.

“I can never have faith in you when you’re surrounded by alcohol. You arse.”

Gavin shrugged and Michael put a hand in his pocket, showing Gavin the knife handle.

“I got the knife. We could just get ‘im on the way out.” Michael whispered, dropping it back in his pocket and resuming his guard-like stature next to his partner. Gavin turned and pointed with his glass, almost like he was toasting someone.

“M’kay, then. How ‘bout this?” He gently nudged Michael in the arm when his attention shifted to some of the attendees walking around them. They would have to be quick or they’d become suspicious.”We’ll wait for them to be over there, right?” He gestured to the room next to the security office where the attendees that were coming up the stairs were heading towards.

“Don’t-don’t point.” Michael hissed and Gavin lowered his hand and took another sip of his champagne before continuing.

For a brief moment, they had the space at the top of the stairs to themselves.

“He’s having drinks, right. I’ll take out his body guy, you take out him. We’ll come down and kill that guy on the way out.” He gestured to the guard at the doorway. “Well, let’s mingle, shall we?”

“Let’s mingle.” Michael answered, pushing his mask up a bit as Gavin walked ahead of him, drinking the rest of his champagne.

“Aww man, all the booze is gone, ya see that?” Gavin answered as they walked back down the stairs and saw the now empty table that once held a bunch of champagne glasses.

Michael heard the static-y sound coming from the guards’ ear pieces and was sure they were looking at him and Gavin.

 “You know, maybe we should pretend like we know each other.” Gavin whispered as he picked up a random glass from a table. Damn, he needed to slow down.

“No, that’s fine, we don’t.” Michael answered, his voice quiet before he slightly raised it to speak again. “Sir, Sir, back off sir.” His faint accent seemed to vanish briefly as he took on a more authoritative tone of voice, sounding less like a party-goer and more like the role he was dressed up for.

“Sorry, Sorry. I just- wanted to make friends.” Gavin seemed to stumble over his words a little bit as Michael (kinda begrudgingly) put some distance between them. “I’m kinda socially awkward at these.” A few attendees cast him annoyed glances and Michael forced himself to not snap at them for it.

The politician was approaching now, surrounded an entourage of attendees, his bodyguard, and his announcer.

Michael glanced back around to let Gavin know, not trusting the brit to be observant after all the champagne he’d had. He quickly caught sight of him and walked over, drifting by slowly to whisper to him. “Target is approaching, target is approaching.” He hissed to Gavin who picked up another glass and slowly walked over to the politician, worming his way through the attendees swarming around him.

Gavin silently pulled the poisoned sticker out of his pocket and stripped off the back, walking over to the bodyguard who stood by the wall.

“Hey, thanks for doing all the work you do.” Gavin whispered, attaching the sticker to the guard’s hand and casually walking away as the poison worked into the guard’s bloodstream and caused him to slump against the wall and slide down.

He could hear another nearby guard talk into his earpiece. Gavin could only pick up ‘back up’ but that was a good enough hint that he should get the fuck out.

Michael slowly walked up behind the politician as he took a sip out of his champagne glass. As he did, Michael slipped out the knife and stabbed it into the man’s back. Repeatedly.

He was always the one to go a little overkill.

The man cried out in pain, blood gurgling in his throat as he staggered back and then fell to the floor. He quickly walked out of view of the attendees, reuniting with Gavin who took the same route of action.

“What’s going on?” Some of the attendees were calling out

“Did you see who did that?” Michael asked, keeping with his cover as he joined Gavin on the stairs.

“That guy there was suspicious.” Gavin answered, pointing at a random attendee. His british accent was easily identifiable.

“Dude, I went all over him.” Michael whispered to Gavin, failing to keep the chuckle out of his voice though the others were too loud to hear it, thankfully. Gavin smiled back at him.

“I’m going to go take out that guy, you keep walking.” Michael whispered, pulling out another poison sticker and stripping off his back as he joined another guard who was pointing at random attendees.

“Take off your masks. Everyone take off your masks.”

“I’ve seen a suspicious individual around here.” Michael added, quickly attaching the sticker to the back of the guard’s neck. He let out a small noise of shock and then collapsed to the floor as the poison took effect.

“There’s a guard sick back there.” Michael called out as he walked away from the now dead guard and into the sea of attendees.

Gavin passed by a waiter who was still handing out drinks and he gratefully took one. “Don’t mind if I don’t.” The champagne was nicer than what Gavin had been able to have in a while. Besides, if they were going to be convincing, he may as well drink a couple glasses.

He quickly found Michael approaching the now unguarded door, everyone else’s attention turned on the three dead bodies now on the floor making it easy to walk over.

Gavin cast another look around, glass still in hand as Michael opened the door. He slipped out and held the door open as Gavin walked in. In a moment of drunk victory, he made a cheers gesture with his glass before joining Michael outside.

Another successful job.

As the two quickly made their way out of the building, Gavin sipped on his champagne.

The two slipped in Michael’s car. Once they were safe inside the vehicle, Michael pushed up his mask and his head slumped against the headrest.

“Whoo! We did it.” He let out a faint chuckle and pulled off the wig and the mask, carelessly throwing it into the backseat. Gavin did the same. Their hair was ruffled, but it was totally fine seeing as they were no longer really in a formal setting and they never genuinely cared about it in the first place. He rose up his champagne and downed the rest of it.

“Hell yeah!” He added, smiling. Michael turned to him.

“I think I should stop bringing you to places with alcohol.” He said as Gavin set down the glass.

“Noo.” He whined, leaning back and looking at Michael.

“.. Damnit, Gav.” He groaned, slipping his car key out of his pocket and starting the vehicle. “I can’t believe we shared a body at some point.”

“Awww.” Gavin whined and Michael rolled his eyes.

“Whatever, Gav. Let’s just get back to that Burns guy and get our paycheck and then we can go home and just sleep and watch TV.” Michael loved the thought of passing out in the enormous bedroom back in their apartment. It had been a long day to him with obtaining the disguises and other preparations.

“And swimmy bevs?”

Michael cast a glance at the car’s digital clock as they quietly pulled onto the road. It was pretty late now.

“... We’ll see.”

“Yay.” Gavin cheered, earning another smile from his partner. “I love you Mikey.”

“Love ya too, Gav.”