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noisilyimminentcore · 10 days ago

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When to Redesign SAP Roles: During ECC or Post-Migration to S/4HANA or Rise with SAP

Migrating to SAP S/4HANA or adopting RISE/GROW with SAP is a strategic milestone for organizations aiming to modernize their ERP landscape. However, one critical consideration often overlooked during these transitions is the redesign of SAP roles. The timing of this redesign can significantly influence the success of the migration and the overall efficiency. Should you redesign roles during the ECC phase or wait until after the migration to S/4HANA? This blog explores the key factors driving this decision and introduces the S.M.A.R.T framework—a modern approach to SAP role redesign that ensures compliance, efficiency, and business alignment.

Understanding the Need for Role Redesign

SAP roles are pivotal in defining user access, ensuring compliance, and maintaining operational efficiency. Over time, roles in ECC systems often become bloated with unused authorizations or misaligned with current business needs. This can lead to:

Compliance Risks: Excessive authorizations increase the risk of segregation of duties (SoD) violations.

Migration Complications: Legacy roles with redundancies can complicate the migration process to S/4HANA.

Operational Costs: Since the licensing model is based on assignment and not by usage in S/4HANA and RISE, you may need to procure more licenses than required.

A role redesign ensures clean, streamlined, and compliant access structures, setting the stage for a smooth transition and efficient system post-migration.

ls.ECC vs. S/4HANA: When to Redesign Roles?

Aspect

Redesign During ECC

Redesign Post-Migration to S/4HANA

Compliance

Proactively addresses SoD conflicts and access risks.

Allows compliance alignment with new functionalities post-migration.

Migration Complexity

Simplifies migration with clean and optimized roles.

Reduces redundant effort, focusing only on relevant roles in the new system

Alignment with New Features

May require rework later to incorporate S/4HANA-specific functionalities.

Ensures roles are tailored to new modules, Fiori apps, and processes.

Timeline and Resources

Increases project timelines due to pre-migration workload.

Defers redesign efforts, potentially affecting initial system efficiency.

Business Process Analysis

Limited to existing ECC processes, with potential misalignment after migration.

Better aligned with current and optimized business processes in S/4HANA.

Redesigning SAP Roles with RISE with SAP

If you are moving to RISE with SAP, it is advisable to conduct a complete role redesign during the ECC phase. Once the migration is complete, perform a retrofit to align roles with the cloud-specific requirements introduced by RISE. This approach addresses the unique security, integration, and scalability considerations of a cloud-oriented transformation. You might have many questions at this juncture – What is the best approach? Which tools must be considered? Are there any accelerators that can be used? Can we use stock ready/ready to deploy role structures?

Challenges with Stock Ready Rulesets

Many system integrators offer pre-packaged or stock-ready rulesets as part of their role redesign services. While these rulesets might appear to save time and effort, they often come with significant challenges, making them unsuitable for many businesses. Here’s why the stock-ready approach is not recommended:

Lack of Customization: Stock-ready rulesets are designed to be generic and may not align with the specific needs of your industry or business processes. This can result in inadequate or excessive authorizations.

Compliance Risks: These pre-packaged rulesets may not fully address industry-specific compliance requirements, leaving gaps that could lead to audit findings or regulatory penalties.

Misalignment with Business Processes: Every organization has unique workflows and processes. Stock-ready rulesets may not account for these nuances, leading to inefficiencies and user frustrations.

Post-Implementation Challenges: Organizations often need to spend additional time and resources customizing these rulesets post-implementation, negating the perceived benefits of a quick deployment.

Instead of relying on stock-ready rulesets, organizations should invest in a tailored role redesign approach. This ensures that roles are aligned with specific business processes, compliance requirements, and future scalability needs, delivering long-term value and efficiency. This is where S.M.A.R.T approach/framework can be a life saver.

The S.M.A.R.T Role Redesign Framework

At ToggleNow, we leverage the S.M.A.R.T framework for SAP role redesign. This approach ensures that roles are:

Simplified: Designed to reduce complexity while maintaining operational effectiveness.

Mitigated for Risks: Focused on eliminating SoD conflicts and maintaining regulatory compliance.

Aligned with Business Tasks: Task-based roles ensure that access permissions directly support specific workflows.

Responsive to Change: Built to adapt seamlessly to future business or technical changes.

Transparent and Optimized: Designed with a focus on license optimization to eliminate unnecessary expenditures.

This framework delivers roles that are not only secure but also cost-effective and easy to manage

ToggleNow Advantage

ToggleNow brings a unique value proposition to SAP role redesign initiatives, ensuring a seamless and efficient process tailored to your business needs. Here’s why we stand out:

Customized Solutions: Unlike stock-ready rulesets, ToggleNow develops tailored role designs aligned with your specific business processes, compliance requirements, and industry standards.

Deep Expertise: With extensive experience in SAP role redesign, ToggleNow combines technical proficiency with a deep understanding of regulatory compliance and security best practices.

Innovative Tools:ToggleNow leverages proprietary tools such as Verity, Optimus and accelerators such as xPedite to streamline role redesign, risk analysis, and validation, ensuring faster project delivery.

Focus on Scalability:Our approach ensures that the roles we design are not only compliant and efficient but also scalable, adapting to your future business growth.

Proven Track Record:Trusted by leading organizations, ToggleNow has successfully delivered role redesign projects across diverse industries, enabling smoother migrations and enhanced system performance.

By partnering with ToggleNow, organizations can confidently navigate their SAP transitions, optimizing roles to drive operational excellence and long-term success.

Conclusion

The decision to redesign SAP roles during ECC or post-migration to S/4HANA or RISE with SAP depends on your organization’s priorities, resources, and timeline. Redesigning during ECC can simplify the migration process, while post-migration redesign allows alignment with new functionalities. For RISE with SAP, role redesign becomes even more critical to address cloud-specific requirements.

Moreover, organizations should avoid the pitfalls of stock-ready rulesets and opt for a customized approach that aligns with their unique requirements. By investing in a well-planned redesign, organizations can unlock the full potential of SAP S/4HANA or RISE with SAP, driving operational excellence and business growth.

Read more: https://togglenow.com/blog/redesign-sap-roles-ecc-or-s-4hana/

#SAP Risk Management #SAP access risk analysis tool #SAP GRC access control solution #SAP segregation of duties automation #SoD risk analysis for SAP

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cheapshrimpysheep · 8 months ago

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My Heaven's Light

SUMMARY: Rollo managed to kidnap you before sending the NRC students to Fleur City's Waterways, believing he was saving you. Malleus and the others reach the tower, ring the Bell of Solace and rescue you. Malleus expresses his protective side and Rollo apologizes for kidnapping you.

CHARACTERS: Rollo Flamme VS Malleus Draconia (x Reader)

TAGS: GN Reader; Angst to Comfort; Jealousy

WARNING: Spoilers from Glorious Masquerade; Kidnapping

WORD COUNT: 4.220 Words

COMMENTS: Thinking about the fact that Rollo is the twisted version of Frollo and thinking of MC as Esmeralda, it is inevitable to imagine Rollo kidnapping MC. But not for the same reasons!

Rollo is a really complex character, but one I've wanted to write about for some time now. I plan to try writing more with him in the future.

Until then, I hope you enjoy this one. 🐲🦐🔔

By the way, do you have ANY idea how many times I've looked up synonyms for common words just to get as close as possible to Rollo's way of speaking? One thing is for sure: I am greatly expanding my English vocabulary with this.

Amidst the panic that the firelotuses were causing, both your colleagues and Professor Trein end up paying more attention to the flowers than to you.

As you move away from the flowers, you end up approaching one of the pillars. That's when you feel a hand covering your mouth and another holding your arm behind your back.

You are carried away through the shadows as you try to free yourself, but these attempts only make the hands hold you even tighter and run the risk of injuring your arm.

The person who is taking you leans over and whispers in your ear. “I beg you not do make this more complicated that it needs to be.” It's Rollo!

He takes you to a room adjacent to the hall and pushes you inside, making you fall into an armchair. Just before he closes the door to lock you inside you hear Grim's voice.

“[Y/N]? [Y/N]?! MY HENCH-HUMAN DISAPPEARED!”

No matter how loud you scream, or how much you bang on the door, the chaos outside is too loud for anyone to hear you. Eventually you realize something is going on, so you stop to listen to the conversation. Rollo had revealed himself and was talking to your NRC colleagues.

“My, my.” You hear Azul say. “That was quite a predictable villain line, you know.”

“Silence!” Rollo's voice echoed. “YOU'RE the villains here! And what's more, you flaunted your magic and mesmerized our good citizens with it... Just like you did with your prefect. You imprisoned them with you and poisoned their mind. The poor thing became numb to the absurdity after spending every day swimming in it. Mages use their magic to lead people astray and cloud the eyes of the virtuous public. It's sad state of affairs, but it's devastating when the victim is someone like [Y/N].”

“What have you done with [Y/N]?!” Malleus's powerful voice demands to know.

“For now, I am keeping them safe. But once I engulf the world in the fiery crimson of these flowers and strip every mage in Twisted Wonderland of their magic, then I will have saved them, and all those like them who suffer at your hands!”

“You have no idea of the atrocity you are insinuating, Flamme!” Not only does Malleus’s voice thunder, but the sky outside does too.

“And there he is, folks! The secret mastermind who was controlling the ‘final boss’ all along!” Idia says. “But what kind of mastermind jumps the gun and shows up this early? Dude has like, zero patience.”

“Could you not right now? You're ruining the moment.” Azul complains.

The discussion continues with Rollo revealing that his plan is already well underway. When the Bell of Solace rang for an unprecedented fourth time that night, it suffused the city with magic. The firelotuses aren't only in the school. They've spread throughout the city, and are sapping the energy from every mage living there. And after that, he opens the floor for everyone to fall into a pit.

“And those accursed mages, with Malleus Draconia foremost among them... They'll all be finished! Enjoy your time down below. Though I think you'll find it quite...draining. At long last... I shall finally mete out my justice.”

Some time later, the door opens and Rollo enters, extending his hand to you.

“Come. We must go to the Bell Tower. It is safer-”

What he didn't expect was for you to attack him with a tall candlestick. And you discover that in addition to being a promising mage, he also has excellent reflexes. He manages to dodge your attack and grab your wrists so you let go of the candlestick.

“I do not aim to harm you!” He says very seriously. “Please don't turn it into something I have to do.”

“Then what are you doing locking me here?”

“Preventing you from falling for the tricks of those magic-addled fools once again.” He comes closer, still grabbing you by the wrists. “You poor thing. Blinded by villains who wear an elusive mask of companions. But worry not, that tragic state of affairs shan't last much longer.” He brings his face even closer to yours. “Now, I will provide you with a choice. You will accompany me peacefully to the Bell Tower, where you will be safe by my side. Or you will make me forcefully assure your safety. Which one will be?”

If you choose to resist, Rollo will pin your arm behind your back again and place a handkerchief over your mouth and nose. Whatever is in that handkerchief, will render you unconscious. And you will wake up on the top floor of the Bell Tower, lying on a blanket.

You see Rollo with his back to you, looking down at the bright scarlet below. You stand up.

“For the Righteous Judge's sake, don't try to go against me again.” Rollo says, without turning to you. “Even without the use of my magic you will not be able to overpower me.” Still without taking his eyes off the outside he calms down to invite you. “Would you be so kind as to join me in gazing out over the city?”

If you choose to accompany him peacefully to the Bell Tower, Rollo will release your wrists with a smile and give you his arm for you to intertwine with yours.

“I'm glad my judgment of you is aligning with the truth.” He says calmly as he guides. “To remain so virtuous amidst the chaos of magic, you must surely be one of heaven's lights.” You see now a new smile, a peaceful one.

The climb up the tower was silent, as you needed to breathe to climb all those stairs. When you finally reach the top, Rollo extends his hand to you. If you give him yours, he will guide you like a gentleman to a point where you can both see the ominously lit city below.

After your choice:

“Ahh, the city's turned a marvelous shade of crimson... How cleansing it is. I've never felt so at peace before.”

“Why are you doing this, Rollo?”

“Once magic vanish from the world forever, no one will have to suffer with its consequences. Magic is not something to be lionized. It is an evil temptation that, behind its illusory wonders, only causes pain and suffering. If it wasn't dangerous, it wouldn't be like a toxin in your body... However... I wonder how much you actually know about it.”

You look at him as if to ask what he means by that.

“Are you even from this world [Y/N]?” He finally looks at you. “I don't know what it is, but there's something about you that's different from every non-magic user I've ever met. And the circumstances surrounding you are quite... abnormal.”

You choose not to respond.

“I see you have your secrets. I have mine owns as well." He takes his handkerchief to his face. "If you don't feel comfortable talking about your past, then allow me the right not to talk about mine either.”

He puts the handkerchief back in his pocket, and you observe the city in silence for a moment, until he speaks again.

“They will come here. I don't know which students will be strong enough to reach the tower, but Malleus Draconia will certainly be one of those who will be able to reach me. And when that happens, I will guarantee that he will be the first to fall.”

“Why all this obsession with Tsunotarou?”

“Obsession is a very strong word, I simply...” He stops to process what you just said. “I beg your pardon, but am I correct in assuming you were referring to Malleus Draconia just now?”

“Of course, he was who you were talking about just... Oh, I called him Tsunotarou didn't I? Sorry. But yes, I was talking about Malleus.”

“T-Tsunotarou?” He takes the handkerchief back to his face. “Is it some kind of mocking nickname?”

“No! I mean yes, it's a nickname, but no, it's not to mock him. It's a long story but that's what Grim and I call him.”

“Does he know about this... name?”

“Oh, yes. He even likes me calling him by that, he thinks it's funny. Or at least that's what it seams. He smiles every time he hears me say that name.” Just like you were smiling talking about him. “He calls me Child of Man.”

“You have a playful nickname for each other.” Rollo whispers with the handkerchief covering his angry (jealous) expression. “Soon enough you'll feel disgusted by it.”

“Sorry, I didn't understand.”

“No, nothing. Pay me no mind.” He takes the handkerchief away from his mouth. “Ah... I hear the firelotuses rustling... Those wretched Night Raven College mages are making their way up the tower, aren't they? Villains are always so stubborn.” Before you could complain about his words, he puts his hand on your arm and continues. “I must get you in a safer place. Those monsters won't give up without a fight.”

“Who do you think we’re calling-”

He ignores your reprimand and takes you by the arm to a small room that they will not have access to without first going through Rollo.

“I am deeply sorry for what I'm about to do, but I need to make sure you do not alert them to your location.” With his magic, he makes ropes appear to tie you up and a piece of cloth to silence you. “See how despicable magic is? An atrocity like trapping you is completed in seconds. But I will release you as soon as the danger has passed.” And he closes the door.

“Here we are.” You hear Malleus’s voice. “The very top floor of the bell tower.”

“The Bell of Solace stands out even at night.” Azul comments. “Look how it glints in the moonlight.”

“Now to ring it, wipe out the flowers, rescue [Y/N] and finish this stupid pop-up quest for good.” Idia points out.

“But to do that...” Malleus returns. “We must first pay our respects to the host of the party.”

This was Rollo's cue to reveal himself. Which he does.

“At long last, you've arrived. The greater the villains, the more they insist on stopping around. Deplorable.”

“Where are they Flamme?” Malleus demands to know.

“Safe, of course, away from you and your wicked lies.”

“Okay, I really need to ask.” Idia says. “What does our magic-less Prefect have to do with this flower plan and ending magic thing? Why kidnap them? They have no power to stop you. Unless you kidnapped them to keep them for yourself. Good taste tho. But you only met them literally today! That’s like the ultimate desperate creep move.”

“My actions involving your Prefect have nothing to do with personal motives. Innocent victims must be rescued from your evil hands! And that is exactly what I did.”

“I don't know if you would use the word ‘Innocent’ like that if you actually knew them.” Azul comments with a smirk.

“If this is true, it will be proof of your corruption!”

The flowers reach the bell and the exchange of words follows a course that ends with the three fighting Rollo after Malleus said:

“Regardless of your reasons, you will not have your way. I shall stop you for all the fallen in this city... For the wonderful person you kidnapped... For the people awaiting us at school... For Briar Valley... And for myself. You see, I harbor a particularly potent animus toward you. A feeling aggravated by the disrespectful actions you had towards who is dearest to me. I shall eradicate the firelotuses and put all to rights. With the Bell of Solace itself!”

They lose the first fight against Rollo. And it's after that that Idia reveals what they read in Rollo's diary that they found in the fireplace. About his brother. About him not being able to do anything to save him... And you hear Idia going down a not so empathetic path, to which you would react with a facepalm if your hands weren't tied.

You hear Rollo getting angry and starting to lose his composure, Azul attacking him with Deuce's signature spell, with whom he had made a deal, the astonished reaction when seeing that Rollo is still standing, and finally, you hear Rollo use his signature spell and the sound of flames bursting forth.

A new fight, even more violent, until the sound of the flames died away and...

“Rollo collapsed, and his flames went out...” Azul says. “That means Malleus won, right?”

“Dude, Malleus is out of breath.” Idia says “I can see why he wanted us clear. We could've easily been collateral damage.”

Rollo says he accepted his defeat, but only to try to attack Malleus one last time when he turned his back on him. He failed, and Malleus rang the Bell of Solace, making all the flowers wither.

“The firelotuses...” Rollo was sobbing. “My flowers, my salvation, they're all withering away... You VILLAINS. What have you done?!”

“More important than that.” Malleus approached, his figure towering over Rollo's on the ground. “What have YOU done to [Y/N]?”

“Why do you show yourself so worried? A being like you would never truly care for someone like them. Admit your true intentions! You want to see them suffer on the long term.”

You finally manage to get your feet close to the door. You hear the worried voices of Azul and Idia telling Malleus not to succumb to Rollo's provocations. And you knock on the door with your feet so they can hear you.

You hear hurried footsteps coming your way, see Malleus opening the door, and look down in horror.

“[Y/N]!” He quickly reaches down to free you, breaking the ropes with his own hands and untying the piece of cloth around your mouth. He would have preferred to use magic to ensure he didn't hurt you, but he was relatively weak in that regard. “Are you okay? Did he hurt you?”

You say you're fine, but that doesn't stop Malleus from picking you up in his arms.

“Is [Y/N] hurt?!” Azul asked, worried.

“They say they're fine. But just in case.”

“Something tells me that Malleus just really wanted to live the scene of the hero who picks up the princess in their arms after saving her from the clutches of the villain who kidnapped her.” Idia comments, just between him and Azul. “Hey, no judgments. This is what I call sense of opportunity.”

Rollo was furious, but he would never admit how jealous he was. Not even to himself.

You watched the shows that your NRC colleagues prepared. The music was beautiful and they sang so well! Especially Malleus. After that, you all talked for a bit in a group before Malleus disappeared. Only for you to see him dance with Rollo. Seriously? All that and he's still going to dance with Rollo before he dances with you?!

You dance with the others, until Malleus appears to bow to you and invite you to dance with him. However, to his surprise, you look sullen.

“Is there something wrong?” He asks you. “Did I do something that displeased you?”

You answer yes, that after everything, the first person he danced with was Rollo. He chuckles, and you get even more sulky.

“Forgive me, but I could not resist provoking Flamme one last time. That, and warn him never to even come near you again.” He says with a smile, which makes it a little scary. “I jest. Well, partially. I did threaten him if he did anything to you again.” He pauses to see if you would cheer up a bit, but you still didn't seem completely satisfied. He smirks. “I must admit, a little jealousy can actually be charming and cute.”

Other people wanted to dance with Malleus, but he asked them all to, please, wait a little longer.

“You are creating a quite long waiting line you know? I will not dance with anyone else until I have my desired dance with my beloved.” He smiles smugly when he sees your reaction.

You give him your hand, he kisses the back of it and brings your body closer to his, placing his other hand on your waist. And you dance together.

“Please be careful.” He says as you dance. You look down at your feet, confused. “Fufu. No my dear, I wasn't referring to your dancing.” The sweet smile becomes more serious. “I was referring to Rollo Flamme. I have reason to believe that, after just one day, he has already recognized your charm. He does not convince me that he did that to you just because he believed he was saving you. But worse than that...”

His expression turns sad and you feel his hand pull you closer.

“He still have hatred towards me and wants to get read of all the mages. Under different circumstances, I would not fear his attacks. I would even invite him to try. But with you... If he realizes how much you mean to me... Despite what happened, I don't believe he has that kind of character, but if he reaches a state of despair where his hatred for me is stronger than the attachment he might feel for you...”

There’s a pause. His expression becomes more peaceful.

“I learned an expression that the citizens here have. Heaven's Light. We don't know what this place called heaven is for sure, but according to some records from the past, it would have been such a wonderful place that it was not even located on land. It was somewhere above the clouds. I believe even the stories of the Lord of the Underworld spoke of a similar place. They say that the name ‘Heaven's Light’ was given by the Kindly Bell Ringer to the woman he fell in love with, for being such a caring and kind person to him.”

He caresses your cheek with one of his hands.

“I understand him perfectly. From the story I was told, I can only believe that I too was blessed with my own Heaven's Light. And just like the Kindly Bell Ringer, I will do whatever it takes to protect it.”

You didn't even realize that Malleus has led you to a more secluded place. Only when you saw that the two were hidden by the shadows and a pillar and he began to bring his face closer to yours. “My Heaven's Light.” He whispers before kissing you.

After your dance with Malleus, he went to dance with the other people who also wanted such an honor and you went to dance with some of your other colleagues.

You were finishing dancing with Sebek when Rollo approached you. Both you and he startled when Sebek quickly placed himself between the two of you.

“What are your intentions?” Sebek inquired with hostility.

“My intentions are not vile.” Rollo replies, hiding his displeasure at the way Sebek is talking to him with his composure. “I would only like to be able to invite [Y/N] to dance.”

“I cannot allow it! My orders are to keep this human safe and away from you.”

Rollo takes his handkerchief to his face, holding back the urge to respond to his audacity and insulting words. However, you tell Sebek that it's okay and that you would like to accept Rollo's invitation. Both he and Sebek are surprised.

“B-but...” He had those sad puppy eyes, eager to fulfil his duty. “My liege told me... he entrusted me to protect you.”

And you say he can still do it. He can watch you while you dance with Rollo. And if something really happens, he can intervene.

“But what if it's too late?”

You say that Rollo wouldn't do anything like that in front of all those people. And that Sebek could tell Malleus that it was your fault for telling him not to stop you.

“But... *sigh* Why are you humans so stubborn? Fine. But I won't take my eyes off you. Even if I have to stop myself from blinking!... Be careful.”

Rollo extends his hand to you and you place yours in his to accept his invitation to dance. He guides you very gently.

“I wanted to apologize for the way I treated you.” He tells you while dancing with you. “I never meant to be rude to you. And regardless of what the students of Night Raven College tell you, at no point did I intend to harm you.” Your expression shows your suspicion. “I don't intend to apologize for doing what I concluded was the best way to save you at the time. I only apologize for the... atrocious way in which I did it. I shouldn't have forced you to come with me. But I feared what those spiteful mages might do to you in a moment of desperation.”

“They wouldn't hurt me!” You say, with certainty in your voice.

“How could you be so sure of that?”

“Because, unlike you, I know them.”

He looks you intently in the eyes, and sighs. The music comes to an end, as does your dance. You bow to each other.

“I find it pitiful seeing someone magic-devoid like you stuck in that villains' lair.” He tells you when you both straighten up. “I am inclined to make my utmost efforts to have you reside in Nobel Bell College instead, however I've already come to the sorrowful realization that it is your heart that keeps you hostage in that island. But before we part, I insist that you know that if you ever find yourself overwhelmed by those circumstances that involve magic, do let me know.” He gives you that subtle smile of his. “I will be glad to provide you with my support and assistance at any moment.”

You give him a smile back, accepting his offer.

“But, just to guarantee that you don't forget my heartfelt offering...” He reaches into his pocket, takes out his handkerchief and extends it to you. “Here it is said that handkerchiefs are powerful guardians of the memories of a loved one. It is common to offer them when we don't want to be forgotten by someone. Despite my mistakes, I would still like you to have the most pleasant memory of me possible." You accept his gift. "I confess that my biggest wish at the moment was to have one of yours too.” Without his handkerchief, he covers his mouth with his hand. “But that is just a mere whim of mine.” He takes his hand away from his face and smiles again “Not even in my wildest dreams did I think I would have so much pleasure in meeting someone from Night Raven College.” He gives you one last bow. “May the Bell of Solace allow our paths to cross again.”

He turned to walk away, but you wanted to do one last thing. You had also bought a handkerchief just like his when you were doing your tour of the city, and you wouldn't need two. You ask him to wait and he turns back to you.

“It doesn't have to be a mere whim.” You say, handing him the handkerchief you had kept with you. Perhaps the sign of a second chance.

He receives your handkerchief and looked at it with his natural smile, but his eyes were different, they had a small, almost imperceptible sparkle.

“I will keep it as one of my most cherished possessions. Thank you, [Y/N].”

“Should I assume this was some sort of revenge?” You hear Malleus's voice say suddenly as you step away from the dancing crowd.

You didn't know he was there, and so close. You look at him and he's smiling wryly.

“I didn't give him any gifts, though. Should I have bought a souvenir too? Perhaps make a bouquet of those crimson flowers he is so fond of.”

“It seems you were right, Tsunotarou.” You say with a sly smile. “A little jealousy can actually be charming and cute.”

Malleus makes that cute pout.

“I told you to be careful.” He says, not as a scolding, but as a concerned request.

You tell him that nothing bad happened, that Rollo wanted to apologize for what he did to you and for him not to blame Sebek because you were the one who accepted Rollo's invitation.

“Don't worry, I know Sebek is a loyal guard. And that you are the one with a kind heart. I told Sebek that I believed him when he told me that it was of your own free will that you were dancing with Flamme. It is in your character to give others the opportunity to explain and apologize. I know this well because it's one of the things I love most about you.” His pout comes back. “However...” He smiles smugly. “I would be more reassured if you spend the rest of the ball close to me. Just in case.”

“Just in case of what, exactly?” You ask.

“Just in case someone else becomes so captivated by you that they want to lock you up in a tower. Which reminds me that in some tales the kidnapper arrange a dragoon to guard the kidnapped.” His smile becomes even more smug and slightly threatening. “Fu fu fu. I would like to see them trying.”

If you would like to read more from me, you can find it in my pinned post: INDEX

#Twisted Wonderland #Twst #Twisted Wonderland x Reader #Twst x Reader #Twst Imagines #Malleus Draconia #Malleus Draconia x Reader #Rollo Flamme #Rollo Flamme x Reader #Glorious Masquerade #Twst Glorious Masquerade #Twisted Wonderland Glorious Masquerade #Twst Halloween

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bestalbertcamuslover · 5 months ago

Text

Cold and Cuddles

↳ Masterlist

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶

✯ pairing: Max Verstappen x GF! Reader ✯

✯ content warnings: None✯

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶

The apartment was quiet except for the hum of the heater working overtime against the chill that had settled over Monaco. Winter here wasn’t harsh, but it had a way of sneaking in through the cracks, especially on days like this.

She pushed the door open, shivering as she stepped inside and kicked off her stylish boots. The warmth of the apartment wrapped around her, but it didn’t quite reach her icy hands and feet. Shrugging off her coat, she rubbed her hands together, as if she were a fly, trying to bring some life back into them.

“Max?” she called, her voice soft as she walked further into the apartment.

“In here,” his voice came from the living room.

She rounded the corner and found him sprawled on the couch, wrapped in a blanket. A video game she couldn’t quite identify was paused on the screen, and his head turned toward her, a small smile tugging at his lips.

“Hey, you’re freezing,” he said, noticing the way she hugged herself.

“No kidding,” she muttered, her teeth chattering slightly as she stepped closer. “It’s colder out there than I thought.”

Max set the controller aside and held out his hand. “Come here.”

She didn’t need to be told twice. She climbed onto the couch beside him, instantly burrowing into his side. He pulled the blanket over both of them, tucking it securely around her shoulders.

“Your hands are like ice!” he exclaimed as her fingers brushed against his arm.

“Sorry,” she mumbled, but there was a teasing glint in her eyes as she pressed her hands to his warm chest.

“Oi! No!” he laughed, squirming slightly but not pushing her away. Instead, he wrapped his arms around her tighter, trapping her icy hands between them. “You’re evil.”

“And you love me for it,” she shot back, grinning as she nestled her head against his shoulder.

Max rolled his eyes but didn’t argue. “I’m starting to think you only keep me around to warm you up.”

“Not true,” she said, her voice muffled against his sweater. “You’re also good at keeping me entertained.”

“Wow, I’m flattered,” he replied dryly, but the warmth in his voice gave him away.

They fell into a comfortable silence, the weight of the day melting away as they shared the quiet warmth of each other’s presence. She could feel the steady rise and fall of his chest, his heartbeat a soothing rhythm beneath her cheek.

“Better?” he asked after a while, his fingers tracing absent patterns on her arm.

“Much,” she murmured, her voice heavy with contentment.

Max pressed a kiss to the top of her head. “Good. Because you’re not going anywhere now. I’m not risking you turning into an icicle again.”

She laughed softly, her arms slipping around his waist. “Fine by me. This is my favorite part of winter, anyway.”

“What, turning my couch into a glacier?”

“No,” she said, looking up at him with a playful smile. “Cuddling with you”

Max shook his head with a chuckle, but the look in his eyes was impossibly fond. “You’re such a sap.”

“Maybe,” she admitted, her grin widening. “But I’m your sap.”

“Damn right you are,” he said, leaning down to kiss her.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶

✯ authors note: The pictures are a little unrelated, but that is a cute cat, right?

Also me in winter core:

Anyway, English is not my first language and I hope you liked it <333

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misasimagines · 3 months ago

Text

good puppy / reader x Caleb (Love and Deepspace)

included characters: Caleb!

rating: NSFW! This is smut.

warnings: Caleb is a bit toxic, reader is scolding him for his bad behavior at the start. Um petplay-ish. Caleb is your dog. Top!Reader, NOT GN!, female reader. almost 5k words shhhhh its a doozy

kicks a rock on the ground demurely and timidly. does anyone wanna play "caleb is a pathetic mess" w/ me....

You were mad at him. It was, unfortunately, not an unusual occurrence. All of his positive qualities could, when taken to the extreme so often as they were, become incredibly negative qualities. Being protective quickly became overbearing. Being helpful became doing everything for you and treating you like a doll. And being reliable became needing to know everything about you at all times no matter what.

When he was good, he was the perfect boyfriend. You had a million pictures of you two being stupidly cute on your phone, you knew he had your back in any conflict no matter how wrong you were, and you were so familiar and comfortable with him that he sometimes felt like he WAS your life, rather than just in it. But when he was bad… you wanted to strangle him. He would do things that he couldn't, or wouldn't, acknowledge as wrong and it drove you insane.

“It's not just about protecting me, Caleb, it's about trying to control me,” you tried to explain, voice tilting louder. You bit it down. You didn't want to yell at him. You had to remind yourself that he wasn't doing anything maliciously, he was just… Caleb.

“I'm not trying to control you, pips,” he implored, “I just… I don't want anyone to take advantage of you. I don't want you to get hurt.” His expression was that of a kicked puppy, all big lilac eyes and slouched posture.

You took a deep breath, “I get that. I get that you want to keep me safe. But you take it too far! You can't trust me to make my own judgments!”

He had made himself a problem when you were out with friends. You told him when you'd be back, where you'd be, and who you'd be with, but he took it upon himself to be in the vicinity of your hang out “just in case.” When he saw a man in your group that hadn't been previously accounted for, he not so discreetly happened to be in the area and came by to see you.

He then all but interrogated the guy under duress when the poor sap offered you his jacket when you said you were cold. The entire thing culminated in a moment where you were seriously scared that Caleb was going to hit the guy, and that guy was not built to withstand a punch from your boyfriend. Afterwards, everyone freaked out about the hostilities and you had to fight for your life to try to return peace to the group.

It was embarrassing apologizing for your boyfriend when the group splintered into two, with half proclaiming Caleb to be out of line and the other half agreeing that he was just being a protective boyfriend. You were sure that at least a few of those people would not be inviting you out again, if only for the risk of Caleb showing up. It was an awful feeling, not so much to be rejected yourself, but to know he was being rejected and he couldn't even see why.

“He wasn't your friend, he was a freak who was looking at you like you were in his Playboy magazine or something! You're just too nice to see it! I had to step in,” He insisted.

“I'm not that naive!” You snapped. “I know he was hitting on me and I was perfectly capable of rejecting his advances on my own. And if he got too pushy, I have a purse FULL of pepper spray and a key chain weighed down by how many sharp things I have attached to it. Which you would know since you put them there.” You crossed your arms and glared at him.

He seemed to wither. He didn't want to offend you. He didn't want you to think he saw you as some weak little damsel. But…maybe he kind of did, no matter how hard he tried to convince himself that you weren't. In his eyes, you were impossibly fragile. If he wasn't constantly vigilant, something --or someone-- would break you and take you away from him. It was an all consuming fear that he couldn't rationalize himself out of. “I know… I'm sorry,” he confessed.

You thought an apology would dull your anger, but this time it wasn't enough. It still simmered under your temples, scorching and insistent. This event was one of too many. This argument was one of a million. You shook your head, “I don't think that you are. I don't believe that you won't do the same thing next time I go out.”

“I won't, trust me, I hate making you upset. I'll … I'll back off,” he tried again.

You stared him down and he seemed to shrink even more under your gaze. Sometimes, it seemed like the only time you had the upper hand with him was when he was facing your anger towards him. It shouldn’t be like this. You shouldn't have to threaten him with rage whenever he did wrong. You huffed, “I don't trust that you know how to behave yourself,” you admitted.

Your words hung in the air, heavy and suffocating enough to make you both feel sick from the effect. It made you feel guilty to hurt him but didn't dull the sense of justification in your words. You were sick of it.

On his end, he felt fear. Regret. Remorse. “What can I do to convince you? I need you to forgive me,” he nearly begged.

It was tiring, this back and forth. You sat down heavily on the edge of the bed, arms and legs crossed in an obvious show of reservation towards him. “Short of getting on your knees and begging for forgiveness?” You responded with a snort. “I don't know. I can't keep doing this, Caleb. I can't keep finding excuses for you.” You breathed out a tight breath and spoke quietly, hardly able to believe your own words, “I can't be with someone who doesn't trust me.”

In the next second, he was on his knees. “Please, I'm sorry. Please forgive me, you know I love you, right? You know I just want to take care of you and I know…I take it too far sometimes but it's just because I love you so much. I'm sorry, okay?” he stared up at you with such pathetic earnesty your heart stuttered in your chest. There was a frantic look in his eyes as if he were watching his life fall apart around him. “Please say you'll forgive me and you'll let me keep being with you.”

Caleb's 6’2 frame was barely even diminished by being on his knees, but still he felt infinitesimally smaller. Weaker. He was always above you, looking down and patting your head. Always making grandiose statements about being there for you. Always holding himself to some impossibly high standard and never letting you see him falter. Seeing him like this, on his knees and begging, well… You swallowed and unconsciously clenched your thighs together.

When you didn't respond, his expression became more worried. Brow furrowed, he put his hands on the ground, “I'm so sorry, please forgive me. Tell me what to do and I'll do it, I swear. You know I'll do anything for you. It doesn't matter what you ask for, how impossible it is- I'll do anything you want. Just…please… I can't lose you.”

You exhaled, “It's not the first time you've done something like this.”

“I know.” His voice dropped. You could almost see tears welling in his eyes he was so scared of what you would decide. Those purple irises of his were glossy and blurred and the sight pulled at your heartstrings.

“You're like… a territorial dog.”

His gaze never wavered from your own and his eyes seemed to clear at that pronouncement. Uncertainty gave way to clarity, insistence, “Then I'm your dog. I'll be by your side and protect you with my life forever. I'll do whatever you ask so just tell me how I can do it the way you want.”

You shifted once more, the space between your thighs becoming uncomfortably hot and wet. Normally, Caleb did all the heavy lifting, so to speak, in your intimacy. He initiated, he took care of you, he held you down and plowed you into the mattress until you were drooling and could only remember his name, not your own. You loved it, you loved him, but…the idea of putting him in his place, especially when he was begging for it, made your head swim with possibilities.

Resolved and feeling a pang of anxiety in the pit of your stomach at your own boldness, you leaned forward, uncrossing your legs and resting your elbows on your knees. “You want forgiveness? Then come here, dog,” you demanded, keeping your eyes as steely and focused as possible.

His face flushed. Seemingly, even as he begged for you, he must not have expected such a response. Your heart hammered in your chest as you wondered if he'd back out, find a way to turn this back into your normal dynamic with him on top, with him in control. You wondered if you even wanted him to obey, if this wasn't too much responsibility, too different from what you were used to. Seconds passed and you doubted yourself, prepared to pull back with an apology and an excuse-

But with red filling his cheeks, he hung his head and crawled towards you, slowly and with the weight of his own humility on his back.

You could have moaned on the spot if you were any weaker.

He stopped in front of you, head bowed right before your knees.

You put your hand out towards him. He reached out with his own to hold it and you swatted it away without any verbal command. Truly, you weren't sure you had the strength. This was uncharted territory for the both of you.

He stared at you, eyes wide and completely aware of what you wanted. He put his hand back down on the ground and took a slow breath.

Caleb shut his eyes and pushed his head up against your hand like a dog.

You gave his hair a ruffle, letting your nails rake gently across his scalp, “Good boy,” you praised, your voice breathy as you remembered how to breathe. His hair was soft under your fingers and the way his head fit against the palm of your hand felt natural.

The tips of his ears burned as red as his face. It obviously took a lot of effort for him to let himself be in such a position. But it was for you, and he promised he'd do anything for you no matter how humiliating.

“Are you going to behave?” You asked him, letting your voice drop into an almost musical condescension. The question was a part of the act, but also the offer to let him back out. The last chance he had before you both accepted his role for the night.

He couldn't form words --he wasn't even sure if they were allowed as a dog-- so he nodded and prayed you'd accept it. There was no question in his mind whether he'd go through with this. He was yours, completely and without condition. If you wanted him to be a perfect boyfriend, he'd be your perfect boyfriend. If you wanted him to be strong and commanding, he’d be strong and command you. And if you wanted him to be a dog, he was your dog.

His agreement made your heart settle. You weren't forcing him, he wanted this. You decided to be kind to him, petting his hair, letting him be a silent and obedient pet for a moment. Unconsciously, he lulled into your touch, his eyes closed and the tension fading from his shoulders. You hummed praises towards him then let your fingers drift down to cup his cheek and raise his eyes towards yours. “How is my dog going to make it up to me?” You asked him, propping his chin up on your fingers and making him look up at you.

His eyes were dark, but not the way they were when he was upset. They were filled with adoration and devotion and something undeniably primal. “I'll do whatever you want. Always,” he promised, voice devoid of any of that embarrassment you'd have expected to be there. It was composed and serious and controlled.

It took every ounce of control in you to not fold right there, to give him free reign over you the way you always did. The way you knew you liked it. You could already imagine him caging you in, his arms on either side of you as he plowed you into the mattress and growled about how well you were taking him.

But you could have that any day. This was far more rare.

You pulled back your hand, ran it up over your thigh and pulled your skirt up higher. Letting your legs part, you looked down at him, “Make yourself useful on your knees, then.”

With your permission, he leaned forward, head between your legs, hands reaching up to grab your thighs and pull you closer to his face. You allowed him to hook your knees over his shoulders, allowed him to lean in and disappear under your skirt, allowed him to lick you over your underwear. He groaned shamelessly at the taste of you.

You bit down on your lip to muffle yourself, knowing your silence would drive him insane. He would have to work for every treat he could get.

Caleb pressed his tongue to your clothed cunt. One of his hands snaked around your thigh to hold you open enough to keep him fitted there. The other rubbed you over your panties, the cotton growing wetter and heavier from your slick and his saliva.

You were too eager to feel his tongue against you to wait, “Just- just take them off,” you ordered.

He pulled away long enough to respond, “Yes, ma’am,” and then tugged your panties down your legs, letting you see his flushed face again as he did. His eyes never left your cunt, his hair was ruffled from your hands and skirt and thighs, and his lips were red and wet already. He was a gorgeous sight.

As soon as your underwear was thrown behind him, you grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled him back to work.

He didn't need any more permission and immediately licked from your entrance and up in one pointed move. He pressed his tongue flat against your clit as his finger rubbed through your folds to get it wet enough to slide in. As he pushed his finger into you, he kissed your clit with as much gentle, desperate reverence as the first time he kissed you on the lips.

You fell back on the bed, thighs suffocating him, hands anchoring him by the hair.

Working a finger into you, he paid your clit more attention, enough to make your stomach tighten and your toes curl. It was too early to feel overstimulated, but he sucked and licked your little bud with such focus, you had to tug on his hair to get him to ease up. “Slowly, dog,” you moaned out. Whatever this was? You wanted to make it last.

He hesitated in his ministrations. Obviously, he wanted to eat you out like he always did: messy and moaning against your pussy like he was the one getting off. Taking it slow, denying himself the pleasure of your juices squirting onto his face? It wasn't his ideal. Still, he obeyed your orders and shifted below you, settling back slightly. His finger worked back and forth into you, curving and stroking you exactly the way you liked. And he did it all slowly, obediently, and with a tent in his pants that was already uncomfortably tight.

“Good boy,” you praised him again, petting his head as he went down on you. “You're my good boy, aren't you?”

He whined in agreement at the praise and you promised yourself you'd commit that sound to memory.

His finger worked in and out of you slowly and eventually he pressed his cheek against your leg, gave a long kiss to your inner thigh, and looked up at you with eyes completely clouded with desire. “Can I give you more?” He asked.

He punctuated his request with a slow curl of his finger against your insides that made you drop your head back against the bed and moan. “Yes, yes- make me come,” you commanded breathlessly.

With your permission, he pushed another finger into your heat and sped up his motions. He pressed in close again to lick you until you felt your core tightening, your heart racing. “Caleb-” you whined out before you felt the tension snap in you and you coated his hands and lips with your juices.

Heart hammering in your chest, you took deep breaths, rolling your hips against his face as you rode out your orgasm. He stayed where he was, matching your rhythm effortlessly, keeping you at that peak as long as he could. As you came down from it, he kissed your thigh, and then sucked lightly, and then bit hard enough to leave a mark.

A truly obedient dog would have asked before doing that, but the idea of him marking you made your cunt spasm around his fingers.

He only pulled his fingers out when you weakly pushed his head away, and you had to push him the entire way out from under your skirt or you knew he would have stayed there, just waiting for permission to eat you out again. You raised yourself up on your elbows to look at him and bit down a whimper at the sight of his shiny, wet, swollen lips, his tousled and messy hair, and his blown out pupils. His normally soft purple eyes were completely clouded, completely dark, watching you like you were the only thing in the room- no, the only thing in the world. As you looked at him, he brought his fingers to his mouth and licked them clean, eyes never leaving yours.

Truly a filthy dog.

“Good boy, Caleb,” you praised.

His eyes lit up at the praise and he tested your leniency by putting his hands back onto your thighs, “I can do it again,” he offered eagerly, “Let me keep making you feel good.”

“I think I want something else from you,” you teased. “Up, boy,” you sat up and patted the bed next to you.

He hesitated only a second as he tried to understand your words. Already, his brain was turning to pussy drunk mush and it made your heart stutter with adoration. Caleb climbed up onto the bed where you had indicated and looked over at you with the biggest and cutest puppy dog eyes you could imagine.

You couldn't hold back your smile. Your early frustration with him had completely subsided, aided of course by the lingering bliss of your recent orgasm. “Lay down,” you gestured.

You crawled over him slowly and straddled his legs as he laid back down against your pillows. “You're going to keep your hands to yourself for now, got it?” You told him sternly.

Caleb had already been reaching for your hips to pull you closer, to grind you down against him, and now his arms tensed as he considered whether to obey or not. One haughty, arrogant look from you broke his desire to rebel and he dug his fingers into the covers in submission.

His pants were tight around his bulge and you took your time rubbing your palm over the most raised part slowly, just barely giving him any friction. His jaw tensed. You pressed down a little harder and he sucked in a breath at the feeling. If he had been anyone else, you would have expected him to look away in embarrassment, to hide his face in the pillows or with his hands but no- this was Caleb and he wasn't going to let anything stop him from savoring every second of your expressions. He watched you as you stroked him over his jeans and you watched back, a smile light on your lips.

He looked so good when he was being submissive to you. His eyes looked so big and innocent, his lips parted slightly with each breath, his cheeks a pretty pink- Pity you hardly ever saw him like this.

“Is this enough?” You teased, letting your body rock back and forth slightly with your motions.

The sheets were scrunched under his hands so tightly he might have put holes through them. He wanted to say no, but he knew better. He knew what you wanted. “If that's all you want to give me, yes,” he said, his voice somehow both husky and whiny at the same time, like he was holding back the last shreds of his dignity but the desperation was still leaking through.

Your cunt ached. “You would come for me like this?” You leaned down over him, peppering his jaw with kisses, pressing your chest against his and continuing to paw at him through his jeans.

He turned his head in the hope that you'd take pity on him and kiss him, but you just kissed the tip of his nose, the corner of his mouth, and smiled innocently at him. “Tell me and I will,” his voice came out more of a whine than anything.

“You don't think that's a waste?” You asked with an exaggerated pout. You pushed yourself back up to straddling him and worked the buttons and zipper of his jeans open.

He groaned, head falling back as you let your hand drift down the waistband of his boxers, “You know I can last more than one round, pips.”

The use of your nickname made you giggle. Even when he was trying to be obedient, trying to be your dog, he had too much pride and ego to let you think he couldn't satisfy you. “I know, sweetie,” you assured him, pulling down the elastic until you could pull his cock out finally. “I know you're always good for me.”

The tip was so red and wet with precum you almost felt sorry for him. Almost. If he didn't deserve this so much. “P-please,” his voice was strained as you trailed your fingers up and down his shaft as lightly as you could. Still, he stayed good, he kept his hands to himself.

You inched up on him, positioning yourself over his cock, rubbing it through your folds, letting the tip catch on your clit. The sensitivity nearly made you double over and you avoided it on the next pass just to keep your control. “Beg again,” you hissed.

“Please, please, please, please, need to be inside you, please-” he chanted, not a drop of shame or pride in his pathetic, desperate need for you.

You couldn't deny either of you any longer and pressed his tip against your entrance, sinking down on him until he was fully sheathed in your cunt. This time, you did lose your composure, pressing your hands to his chest and nearly collapsing onto him as his cock filled you. Your legs shook slightly as you got used to it, as your pussy stretched to accommodate him.

“Let me do the rest,” he pleaded, and it sounded so tempting. Being a pillow princess was so easy and rewarding with him. “Let me take care of you.”

You pushed his shirt up to his mouth, your hands brushing against his abs and chest as you went. Holding the crumpled fabric at his lips, you gave him an order. “Hold this up but keep your hands down,” you tried to keep your voice level and stern, but it came out pitchy as his cock twitched and throbbed in you.

He bit down on his shirt.

You ran your hands down his chest, pressed them to his abs, and started rocking and bouncing on him. It was stupid how good he felt, how hard it was to stay focused when his cock rubbed against you so perfectly. It really filled every inch of you up and then stretched you just a bit farther. You rolled your hips, let him stay deep, let yourself just use him for your own pleasure.

“Sh-should I let you come inside?” You asked through your own pants and moans.

He groaned out something you assumed was yes, but he obediently kept the fabric of his shirt in his mouth for you.

“Were you a good enough dog to deserve it?”

He bucked his hips up into you in response and your eyes nearly rolled back in your head. His arms were so tense, his muscles so strained from trying to keep his hands off of you. He looked so good like this. He looked so good having to hold back, having to be a patient, obedient, submissive dog for you. You whined when he thrust up into you again and your thighs clenched so tightly they hurt.

“Good boy, good dog,” you praised, “G-give it all to me-” your body tensed and your back arched as your orgasm hit you. Your nails dug into his chest as you held on to him, your pussy spasming around him.

It didn't take any longer for him to finish too, shooting a thick load into you that made you cry out his name at the feeling. Feeling boneless and spent, you collapsed onto his chest. He pressed his heels into the mattress to push up into you without being able to hold you, desperate to stay deep inside while he released everything he had.

Eyes shut, you stayed still, your body tensing and relaxing as you came down from your orgasm. Your cunt sporadically clenched around him and his hot come and you whined, deep in your throat, at the sensation.

As satisfied as you were, there was something missing. You looked up at him and then tugged the shirt out of his mouth. “You can thank me, now,” you offered with a small, apologetic grin.

“Can I touch you?” He asked instead, words falling out of his mouth quickly as if they'd been there this entire time.

You nodded, eyes already fluttering shut.

Immediately you were wrapped in his arms, and you noted with a choked whimper, he kept his cock buried in you. “Thank you,” you heard him say softly, kissing the top of your head as he held you tightly.

You stayed there for a moment until the ache of being oversensitive and overfull began to be too distracting. “Caleb- need a break.”

He pressed you closer just one more time before easing up, slipping out of you, and letting you slump onto the bed next to him. “Do you forgive me now?” He turned on his side, hand splaying across your stomach and eyes boring into your own.

You reached up to brush a strand of hair out of his face. “Always,” you hummed and it was true. No matter how many times he fucked up, no matter how far his obsession took him, at his core you knew him. You knew his intentions were good and that there was just something in his brain, too deep and intrinsic to him to remove, that made him hold on too tightly. As frustrating as he could be, you loved him.

He smiled, so cutely endearing that it made your heart ache. “I love you, pips, and I'll do anything for you. Never forget it.” He cuddled up to you, nuzzling his face against your neck as he did.

You put your hand over top of his, “Love you too, puppy,” you teased.

#lads #lads caleb #love and deepspace #love and deepspace caleb #lads x reader #love and deepspace x reader #lads smut #love and deepspace smut #fighting these demons today lads #redacted redacted smth about how caleb would be ecstatic if he could knot you redacted redacted #i take myself out back. i shoot myself like a lame horse. hallelujah

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lvmimis · 1 year ago

Text

cw: oral, fem!receiving. minors dni. reader wears waist beads. a/n: yeah this is what i did instead of worry about leaks

Yuuta’s index finger slips into the small space where your waist beads are the most slack against the soft skin of your belly, and lets his finger trail gently along the length. It’s a slow yet gentle and controlled movement, the run of his saliva-slickened finger over your abdomen, practically cruel when his face is pressed between your plush thighs. He lets out soft breaths against your moisture slickened cunt, bidding you to remain still even with every shiver, even with every laving motion of his tongue along your inner folds.

He’s torturing you practically with these kitten licks, but the hand that isn’t toying with the beads grips tightly around your ass cheek, your leg thrown over his shoulder in a way that makes it clear that he won’t be letting you go any time soon.

You sigh as he sucks on your clit, spits on it and lets his tongue dive in, all the while pulling at the beads on your waist, fixated in the movement like a pen twirler; your eyes practically roll back in your head with every kiss, moaning in pleasure. He pulls on your beads and you let out a squeal as he squeezes your ass tighter, inhales your scent more and eats, and you’re practically spilling your essence before he stops abruptly.

His eyes tilt up to look at you above him - he’s kneeling as you rest, torso propped up by pillows, one leg dangling over his shoulder, the other over the edge of the bed, and his lips glisten with saliva and your juices.

“You know, the waist beads used to annoy me, I have to admit, but-” and he twirls the intricate wood and glass charms between his fingers, “-they’re fun.”

There’s a twinkle in his dark blue eyes as he smiles, and you pout, your thighs still a little weak from tensing just moments before as you endured the onslaught of his lips and tongue.

“Be careful with those, they’re sacred.”

He kisses your pussy again, then raises an eyebrow, large eyes blinking in mock docility.

“Oh? How so?”

You reach down and let your hands run through his dark locks, then cup his face, using the remaining strength he hasn’t sapped by eating your life out to lean in close to him.

“They’re blessed. Keep evil spirits away from me, so I can’t risk letting you snap them,” you remind him coyly.

He lets his eyes lower from your gaze back to them again, circling your waist, his fingers entangled, then chuckles under his breath. Pulling your other thigh to drape over his shoulder, he wraps his hands around the small of your back.

“You don’t need them anymore,” is all he says as he resumes indulging into your taste anew.

#yuuta okkutsu x reader #yuuta x reader #yuuta smut #yuuta okkotsu smut #yuuta x reader smut #daydreams: jjk #mimi's notes

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missmaymay13 · 3 months ago

Text

you belong with me - w.eklund

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w.eklund x fem!oc | 4.5k

summary : based on the song by taylor swift

masterlist

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The SAP Center was alive.

Not just with noise, but energy. Pulsing, electric, tangible. Every heartbeat of the building synced with the drums of anticipation, a sea of teal jerseys washing over the stands, fans chanting, clapping, waving signs with hopeful, glitter-covered letters. The ice gleamed beneath the lights like a frozen lake under moonlight, and William Eklund should have been focused on the game, on the puck, on the playbook burned into his brain.

But his gaze drifted. Again.

She was there.

Four rows back, lower bowl, just to the left of the tunnel. He’d seen thousands of faces from that spot before, but never one like hers. She had this quiet glow about her, like she belonged in a world apart from the harsh stadium lights. Honey-blonde waves framed her face, catching the glint of the overheads with every turn of her head. Her lips curved in a soft, warm smile, the kind that felt private, even if it wasn’t meant for him.

William's breath caught in his throat.

She was radiant.

Even through the plexiglass and distance, he felt the weight of her presence. He couldn’t hear her laugh, but he imagined it sounded like sunlight—like mornings when everything feels a little easier. She wore Will Smith’s jersey and leaned forward in her seat with pride, hands clasped as she watched warmups. She wasn’t watching William. Of course she wasn’t. Her attention belonged to her cousin.

And the guy sitting beside her.

Tall, broad, stiff. His jaw clenched so tightly William could see the line of it from the ice. The boyfriend. Obviously. He wasn’t watching the game. Just sitting there, arms crossed, his vibe more territorial than supportive.

William felt his stomach twist.

He tried to refocus, to shake it off as he moved through drills, but every few laps, his eyes found their way back to her. It was magnetic, involuntary, and completely out of his control.

"You good, Eky?" Macklin Celebrini’s voice broke through the trance, teasing as he skated up beside him and bumped his elbow.

William blinked, startled. "Yeah. Why?"

Mack followed the direction of his gaze, smirk curling with recognition. "Oh... I wouldn’t if I were you."

William’s brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"

Mack’s grin widened. "A) That’s Will’s cousin—Ella. And B) she’s got a boyfriend."

The name settled in his chest like a stone. Ella. Soft, pretty. A name that suited her.

William risked another glance. She was laughing now at something Will said, her whole face lit up like the first burst of fireworks on a July night. Meanwhile, her boyfriend sat stiff beside her, unmoved.

William swallowed hard.

She looked happy, but not in the way someone should be when they’re in love. Not in the way he imagined making her smile.

He exhaled and pushed off from the boards.

The game ended in a one-goal loss. Frustrating, deflating. The locker room was quiet, the air heavy with what-ifs. Still, the younger guys—always resilient—decided to shake it off. Someone suggested heading over to Mack’s place, and soon enough, laughter and the smell of pizza filled the apartment.

William found himself on the corner of the couch, half-listening to Zack argue with Cam about penalties when the front door creaked open.

And there she was.

Ella.

This time, dressed in an oversized hoodie, her hair pulled up into a high ponytail, strands falling loosely around her face. Her cheeks were flushed from the cold, and she looked even more beautiful than she had in the arena—realer, softer. Alone.

No boyfriend.

William sat up, heart thumping louder than it had when he stepped on the ice.

Will met her near the entrance. "Hey, where’s Jack?"

She shrugged, brushing a loose thread off her hoodie. "He was tired. Wanted to go home."

Will tilted his head. "That’s not all of it."

Ella sighed, voice quiet but not weak. "We got in another fight. He didn’t even want to come to the game. Said I didn’t need to be here for every moment of your career—that it’s not my place to act like it matters so much to me."

Will looked like he was ready to throw hands. He’d never liked Jack—never. From the first day he met him, something had been off. And the stories he heard from his mom Colleen or his sister Grace only confirmed it. Jack was selfish, cold, dismissive. He never cared about Ella the way she deserved. "That’s not just wrong—it’s insane. You belong here. And he doesn’t get to decide that you don’t."

She smiled, a little sadly, eyes flicking toward the floor. Will’s heart hurt every time he thought about it—how miserable she was with Jack. How lonely she felt, even when she pretended she wasn’t. Ella had always loved loud, with her whole chest, with everything she had to give. And Jack? Jack barely gave anything back. He never matched her energy, never held her the way she held him. She poured herself into their relationship, gave it her best and her patience and her loyalty, and Jack dropped her without hesitation the second something more convenient came along.

She had moved to San Jose a few years ago for school, hoping for a fresh start, but she didn’t have much family here—just Will. And somewhere along the way, Jack had managed to isolate her from even the few friends she had managed to make. Will had seen it all. Felt helpless through it all. And he hated it.

William’s chest tightened. That look—like she wanted to be happy but didn’t know how.

He couldn’t stop staring. Every time she smiled, even faintly, it was like a light flicking on in a dark room. He didn’t know her. Not really. But somehow, she already felt familiar.

Later, as the noise mellowed into soft conversation and low music, Mack waved him over.

"Ella, meet William," Mack said, grin knowing.

William shook her hand, trying not to show how warm his palms had gotten. "Hi. It’s really nice to meet you."

Ella’s eyes met his, curious and amused. "You too. I’ve heard your name more times than I can count. Will’s basically your hype man."

William chuckled. "Hopefully in a good way."

"The best way," she said, then tilted her head. "You were great tonight. Even if the score didn’t say so."

Something twisted in William’s chest. No one ever said that. Not like it mattered.

They talked. And kept talking.

She was sharp, funny, open. She asked questions with genuine interest, and when she laughed, it was with her whole face—unfiltered, bold. William forgot about the game. About the crowd. About the guy who didn’t bother showing up.

But every so often, Ella’s gaze flicked to her phone, where it buzzed quietly on the edge of the coffee table. She’d check it, eyes dim, thumb hovering over the screen.

Will caught it, too. He walked past, snatched the phone up.

"Hey!"

"Nope," Will said, slipping it into his pocket. "One night. Just one night, El. Be with people who actually want you here."

Ella’s mouth parted in protest. Then closed.

She smiled. For real.

William’s heart cracked open. Even in the short time he'd known her, it hurt him—physically, viscerally—to know she wasn’t being treated the way she should be. She gave so much of herself, and still came up empty. He hadn’t earned the right to feel protective, not yet, but he couldn’t help it. He could already see the difference in how he’d hold her if he had the chance—how he’d show up, make her feel seen, wanted, valued. He would never let her feel like she had to beg for affection or attention. And it broke something inside him knowing that someone else had the privilege of her love and didn’t know what to do with it.

Hours later, after the group had thinned out, William stepped onto the back patio. The air was crisp, stars half-hidden behind city glow. He found her out there, curled into a blanket on a lounge chair, watching the skyline.

She looked up. "Couldn’t sleep either?"

He shook his head. "Didn’t try."

He sat beside her, close but not too close. She smelled like lavender and cold air.

"You like it here? San Jose?" she asked.

"I do. It’s... different. But good."

She nodded. "You looked calm out there."

"Wasn’t. Not with you watching."

Her head turned, startled—but not annoyed. Curious.

"You noticed me?"

"Couldn’t stop."

Ella smiled, small and real. "Jack never notices when I go to games. He complains that I waste my energy cheering for other people."

William’s voice dropped. "You deserve someone who wants you to cheer for them. Who cheers for you, too."

Silence stretched.

Then she whispered, "You ever wonder what it would be like to be seen? Not just looked at, but really... seen?"

He did. All the time. And right now, he felt like he was seeing her. Really seeing her.

"I think you should know," he said, voice barely above a breath, "that there are people here who see you. People who care for you. People who aren’t afraid to show it."

He meant Will, of course. Macklin too. But mostly, painfully, himself. Not that he could say it out loud—not yet.

She leaned into him, her head resting on his shoulder like it belonged there.

William sat still, afraid to move, to break the moment. But inside, something bloomed.

He wanted her to be happy. He wanted her to feel loved, not tolerated. Wanted her to laugh and never second-guess it. He didn’t need to be the guy who saved her. He just wanted to be the guy who cherished her.

Because she belonged with someone who saw her clearly.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

Practice had just wrapped at Sharks Ice, and the locker room buzzed with the usual post-practice energy—half-tired jokes, the hiss of showers turning on, the rhythmic thud of gear hitting the floor. William Eklund sat at his stall, tugging off a soaked shoulder pad when a strange stillness caught his eye.

Will Smith was standing in the doorway.

Still in full gear, helmet pushed back off his head, one glove still on. His other hand gripped his phone tight, pressed to his ear like the force of the conversation was the only thing holding him up. His brow was drawn, jaw clenched, and his back—usually relaxed even in tension—looked rigid. Like he was bracing for something.

William tilted his head, quietly studying him from across the room. He couldn’t hear what Will was saying. Couldn’t even read his lips clearly. But he could feel it. The emotion, the weight. Whatever this conversation was about, it wasn’t good.

Macklin Celebrini dropped onto the bench beside him, sliding his helmet off with a quiet sigh. He nudged William’s shoulder, nodding subtly toward the doorway.

"It’s Ella," Mack said, voice low. "She got in another fight with Jack."

William’s stomach dropped.

He hadn’t seen Ella in a few days, but since that night at Mack and Will’s, she’d started coming around more often. Sometimes she came with Will, sometimes on her own. Just to sit and talk. To exist in a space that didn’t demand anything from her.

But every time William saw her, she looked more and more like she was fading.

Exhausted. Smiling, sure—but never with her eyes. Never like that first night.

It killed him. Slowly. Watching it happen.

She’d sit on the floor of the apartment with her legs pulled to her chest and listen to Mack complain about the media or Will talk through new drills. She’d laugh softly, say something kind, or tease Mack for his dramatic reenactments of board battles. And William would just... watch. Quietly. Carefully.

Every now and then, she’d catch him looking. She never said anything. Just offered that same tired smile and looked away.

Will had vented a few times in the locker room—only when it was just the three of them. He talked about how Ella kept going back. How it was tearing her down little by little. How she believed she could fix Jack if she just loved him enough.

"He’s not the kind of guy you fix," Will had said once, face hollowed out in worry. "He just drains the people who try."

Now, watching Will pace near the locker room exit, William felt a familiar helplessness settle over him. He wanted to help. To step in. To do something. But it wasn’t his place.

Not yet.

A few minutes later, Will came back into the room in a rush. His eyes were red around the rims, not from tears, but from frustration—burned out and seething. He yanked off his helmet, ripped his jersey over his head, and started shedding gear so fast it looked like he was racing himself. There wasn’t even time for the usual post-practice banter.

He muttered something to Macklin, and William only caught the tail end of it: "...pick her up."

Mack didn’t hesitate. Just nodded once, solemnly.

Then they were gone.

The locker room slowly emptied out, teammates trickling away in twos and threes, the noise thinning until it was just William left sitting on the bench, still in his compression top, skates unlaced.

He pulled out his phone.

You good?

No response.

He stared at the message for a while, thumb hovering over the screen.

Then he added:

Everything okay with Ella?

Time stretched. Five minutes. Ten. Fifteen.

Nothing.

He tried to get up. Tried to move on. Shower, go home, focus on recovery. But his mind stayed caught in the image of Will on the phone, the stiff way he stood. The way Macklin’s tone had dropped.

Finally, as William was stepping out of the shower, his phone buzzed on the bench.

Will.

Not right now, but it will be.

William exhaled slowly, fingers tightening around the phone.

He wanted that to be true. For her. For Will. For all of them.

But especially for Ella.

Because she didn’t deserve to keep waking up in that same aching silence, wondering why her love wasn’t enough. She didn’t deserve to give her light to someone who only cast shadows.

She deserved better.

And even if William couldn’t be the one to give her that—not yet—he could hope. Quietly. Fiercely.

He could wait for the moment she realized it, too.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

It was a rare off day for the Sharks—a quiet kind of gift in the chaos of the season. No practice, no team meetings, just open hours for rest and normalcy. Most of the younger guys had wandered over to Will and Macklin’s apartment again, lazily sprawled on the couch and floor with takeout boxes and sports reruns playing in the background.

Eventually, someone complained that it was too stuffy inside, and after a brief argument about who had to stand up first, the group decided on a walk. It was crisp but sunny outside, and they all figured a bit of fresh air would do them good.

William had waved them off, body half-buried in the couch cushions, utterly spent. His muscles ached from the grind of the week, and the idea of moving just to circle a park didn’t sound remotely appealing. He stayed back, letting the apartment go quiet around him.

It was peaceful.

Until a knock broke the stillness.

Not a loud one. Not urgent. Just... hesitant. Fragile.

He blinked, sat up slowly. Another knock. Fainter this time. Almost like the person behind it wasn’t sure they should be there at all.

He padded over to the door, yawning as he swung it open.

Ella.

And she looked like she had completely fallen apart.

Her hair was a mess, face blotchy and streaked from crying, eyes bloodshot, and her mouth quivered like she hadn’t stopped shaking since the moment she left. Her arms were wrapped tightly around her torso like she was trying to hold herself together with sheer will.

The second she saw him, her body sagged with the weight of it all, knees nearly giving out.

But then she blinked and realized it wasn’t Will.

"Oh," she whispered, stumbling back. Her voice was hoarse, nearly gone. "I’m sorry. I thought Will would be here. I shouldn’t have come—I’ll just—"

"Ella," William said firmly, stepping forward, catching her before she could slip away. "Come inside. Please."

She stood frozen for a moment, like her brain couldn’t process the invitation.

Then she broke.

Collapsed into him without another word, fists clutching at his hoodie like she was drowning and he was the last thing keeping her afloat.

She sobbed, hard and loud and aching, like every piece of her was shattering all over again.

"I can’t do it anymore," she cried, the words ripped straight from the deepest part of her chest. "I can’t. I can’t keep pretending. This isn’t love—this can’t be love."

William wrapped his arms around her and held her like she might vanish otherwise. Her body shook against his, and he didn’t say a word—there was nothing to say that wouldn’t fall short.

"I left," she gasped, choking between sobs. "I finally did it. I told him I was done. That I didn’t want to live like this anymore. And he just... let me. He didn’t fight for me. Didn’t ask me to stay. He barely looked at me."

The way she said it—like she was more devastated by his indifference than she ever had been by the pain—hit William like a punch to the chest.

She slid down onto the couch with him, curled into his side like it was the only safe place she had left.

"I gave him everything," she whispered, quieter now, voice brittle. "Every single part of me. And none of it was ever enough. I tried to be the kind of person he could love. I twisted myself inside out for him."

William felt a tear slip down his own cheek and blinked it away before she could see. He kept rubbing her back, his other hand gripping her shoulder like he could anchor her here.

"You didn’t deserve that," he said, almost too soft to hear. "Not even a little."

They stayed like that until her breathing steadied, until the storm inside her calmed just enough for her to lift her head.

Her face was pale, eyes dull, lips parted like she didn’t have the energy to speak anymore.

And William couldn’t take it.

"Come on," he said, his voice suddenly stronger. "Get your shoes."

She looked at him like he’d just spoken another language. "What?"

"We’re going out. You need air. And sugar."

She blinked, the smallest crease forming between her brows.

"You’re taking me to get ice cream?"

"Yup. My treat. And then we’re going somewhere quiet. You don’t have to do anything. Just exist for a while. Somewhere peaceful."

She didn’t argue. Didn’t smile, either. But she nodded.

Ten minutes later, they were in his car. She stared out the window in silence the whole drive, and William didn’t try to fill it. Not with words. Not with music. Just presence.

The little shop was quiet and tucked into the edge of a sleepy neighborhood. He ordered her favorite—he remembered from the night they all hung out, the way her eyes lit up when she mentioned cookie dough.

She didn’t even touch it at first. Just held the cup in her lap.

Until William took a bite of his, made an exaggerated, dramatic sound of delight, and she huffed out the tiniest breath that maybe, just maybe, could be considered a laugh.

It was enough.

They drove to the pier. The sun was dipping low now, casting long shadows over the water, painting the horizon in molten gold and soft lavender.

They sat at the edge, the waves crashing beneath them, and didn’t say anything for a while.

Then William spoke.

"You are... remarkable, Ella. You give and give and give, and you never ask for anything in return. You show up when people don’t deserve it. You fight for love when most people would’ve stopped trying. And that’s not weakness. That’s strength."

She sniffled but didn’t look away from the ocean.

"You deserved someone who tried just as hard. Who loved you with the same fire. Who made you feel safe and wanted and never questioned for a second if you were enough."

She looked at him then.

Her eyes were rimmed with red, lashes damp. But there was something else there too—just the faintest glint of hope. Of belief.

"You really think I deserve all that?"

William smiled, aching with how much he wanted to say yes a thousand times over. But he kept it simple.

"Yeah. I really do."

And for the first time all day, her lips curled up—not in a forced smile, but something real. Something slow and small, but alive.

He couldn’t tell her everything he felt. Not yet. Not now.

But watching that sliver of light return to her face?

It was enough.

For now.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

Ella’s healing didn’t happen all at once.

It came in fragments—quiet mornings, tears that didn’t feel like drowning, laughter that didn’t feel forced. It was slow. Uneven. Some days she woke up and remembered how to breathe. Other days, she stared at the ceiling and wondered if she’d ever feel like herself again.

But the one constant, the one steady thing in the midst of it all, was William.

He made it his mission—silently, selflessly—to remind her of what she deserved. Not with grand declarations or sweeping gestures, but in the way he showed up. Again and again and again.

Ella moved in with Will and Macklin for a few weeks while she figured out her next steps. Her name was still on the lease with Jack, but she hadn’t gone back. She couldn’t. Not after everything. The apartment felt haunted by all the things she had hoped for and never received.

So William went for her.

Without question, without hesitation, he drove to her old place, boxed up her life with careful hands. He folded her clothes gently, set aside the books she loved, and left behind the things that made her cry. He found a storage locker on the edge of town, paid for the first two months himself, and made sure she never had to step foot into that apartment again.

He brought her flowers. Simple ones. Daisies, sometimes tulips. Never roses—Jack always got her roses, the same bouquet every time, like a script he couldn’t be bothered to change. William wanted her to have something different. Something thoughtful. Something real.

He brought her chocolate on the nights she looked particularly quiet. He’d drop it in her lap and say nothing, just sit beside her and let the silence stretch until she wanted to fill it.

He watched cheesy rom-coms with her—Notting Hill, 10 Things I Hate About You, Love, Rosie. And when she cried, he didn’t flinch. Just passed her tissues and let her fall apart when she needed to.

He listened. And when she couldn’t speak, he waited—always offering her a shoulder to cry on, never flinching, never pulling away. Just holding space for her pain, as if it was the most natural thing in the world to do.

And never—not once—did he ask for anything in return.

Will and Macklin saw it all. Of course they did. It was happening right in their living room. At first, Will had been tense, wary. Protective. But it didn’t take long to realize that William’s intentions weren’t about hope or romance.

They were about love.

Not the kind that demanded something. The kind that gave.

Will would catch William standing at the stove, making Ella tea without being asked. Or quietly folding the blanket she always left on the couch. He’d hear William laugh at her jokes like they were the only thing keeping him upright.

Macklin had started joking that it felt like living inside a rom-com.

But even he couldn’t deny it—there was something undeniably wholesome about the way William cared for her.

It wasn’t just sweet. It was healing—because William was loving Ella in the way she had always deserved to be loved. Out loud. Without hesitation. For the whole world to see.

And Ella started to notice.

She started to smile more. To sit a little straighter. To laugh without catching herself.

One night, after William had fallen asleep on the couch beside her—head tilted back, mouth slightly open—she looked at him for a long time. Her heart ached, but not in the way it used to. It ached with the unfamiliar weight of being seen. Of being cherished.

She didn’t know what would happen next. She wasn’t ready for more. Not yet.

But for the first time in a long time, she believed there might actually be something after the pain.

And somehow, William had become her first step forward.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

It had been four months since Ella left Jack.

Four months since she stopped choosing pain over peace. Since she decided that her heart deserved more than what it had been given—more than silence, more than indifference, more than the ache of waiting for someone to meet her halfway.

And for four months, William had been there.

Always.

She didn’t think there was a single crack in her heart he hadn’t tended to. He never tried to fill the space too soon. Never tried to force the healing. He simply stayed, showing her over and over what it meant to be loved without conditions. And slowly, that love—quiet and constant—had stitched her back together.

Now, they were back at the pier.

The same one where, months ago, he had taken her to breathe again. To feel something other than heartbreak. The sun was dipping low, casting streaks of pink and tangerine across the ocean. The wind was soft, cool, curling around them like a whisper.

They sat on the same bench, side by side, their shoulders brushing every so often.

Ella watched the horizon, her thoughts tangled in the stillness between them.

She remembered the way William looked at her that night. Like she was fragile, but not broken. Like she was something beautiful that had just been hidden under too much weight.

And she thought about the little things—how he always made sure she had her favorite snacks in the pantry. How he never let her carry heavy boxes alone. How he laughed at her bad jokes like they were the best ones he’d ever heard.

Four months.

In four months, William had made her feel more seen, more safe, more loved than Jack had in three years.

And she wasn’t blind.

She had seen what he was doing. The way he’d leaned in but never crossed a line. The way his eyes lit up when she walked into a room. The way he never expected anything, even though he gave everything.

She hadn’t been ready before. Not to trust again. Not to risk what little she had rebuilt.

But now?

She looked at him.

Really looked.

He was watching the waves, calm as ever, one hand resting on the bench between them. And there was something in his profile—the way the light touched his cheek, the softness in his jaw—that made her heart ache all over again.

But this time, it was the good kind.

The kind that came with clarity.

"Let’s do this," she said quietly.

William turned to her slowly, confused. "Do what?"

Her eyes didn’t waver. "This. Us. I’m ready. For you."

He froze.

Completely still, like he needed to replay the words to make sure he heard them right.

"I’m ready," she said again, her voice a little steadier now. "For you. For us."

His eyes softened, and something unspoken passed between them—months of quiet devotion, of held-back feelings, of gentle love finally let loose.

He reached for her hand, his fingers threading through hers like they’d always been meant to fit.

He didn’t say anything right away. He didn’t need to.

His smile said it all.

So did the way he leaned forward and kissed her forehead, then rested his against hers.

She closed her eyes and breathed in the moment.

Because it wasn’t just a beginning.

It was finally finding home.

#will smith hockey #san jose sharks #macklin celebrini #macklin celebrini imagine #will smith hockey imagine #william eklund #macklin celebrini x reader #hockey #nhl hockey #will smith hockey x reader #Macklin Celebrini x reader #william eklund x reader #william eklund imagine #mattboldyanon!!#emmywrites!

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palmyre-fallstar · 20 days ago

Text

Two knights : Hans and Henry’s eyes meet

Hans

https://archiveofourown.org/works/64773121/chapters/166442947

But then, a sound startled me. Surprise gave way to shock, and I froze. Had he really locked the door? His footsteps were heading towards me at full speed. My senses must have been playing tricks on me; the situation felt unreal…

I turned just as he reached my side, but I barely had time to see him before he came even closer. His lips met mine… again. This time, it was from him. Henry… The logs I had dropped without realizing it clattered to the floor, but I paid them no mind.

The outside world ceased to exist. There was only this burning contact, urgent yet not brutal. I shivered at the feel of his hand on my neck, while I tightened my own grip. I would not let him go this time.

Without even fully realizing what was happening, Henry, with a fluid but impatient motion, spun us around without releasing the kiss. I understood we were heading towards the bed.

I was unprepared for this moment, one I had never dared imagine could come to pass anywhere but in my dreams.

My body, already overwhelmed by emotion, was struck by a sudden sensation that tightened my stomach and dried my throat. I felt so light, as if I no longer touched the ground, as Henry gently laid me—this was a new sensation between us—on the bed.

At that moment, I needed to meet his gaze. He seemed to understand as well, or perhaps we had the same idea at the same moment. I looked at him finally, for the first time since the beginning of the kiss—in reality, it felt like I was seeing him for the first time—just as my back sank into the mattress. We exchanged no words, only a tender smile, silently seeking consent in each other's eyes. The attention he gave me in that moment touched me to the core of my soul…

I wanted to keep this image etched forever. The idea of this man I loved offering me all of himself with such sincerity moved me deeply. I shivered involuntarily, suddenly struck by lucidity. His beauty radiated in this soft light. Was he aware of it? Henry had skillfully silenced my last fears.

I trusted him enough to give my life, and in that instant, I felt more alive than ever. This was real: the weight of his body on mine, my hands running along his back, caressing the fine embroidery of his tunic. I reveled in his scent as he leaned down again, sealing with a slow kiss this silent promise.

I surrendered fully then, without restraint, to his lips, his breath, his sighs…

Death would have to wait before bringing its scythe down upon us, for paradise was here, in this room where time had stopped.

Henry

https://archiveofourown.org/works/65668018/chapters/169096033

And all the love I had so vainly tried to bury surges through me, like sap through a tree.

For the second time, my body moves on its own.

I lock the door with a steady hand that mirrors my resolve.

He can’t miss the sharp click of the latch or the sound of my footsteps drawing dangerously close.

When our eyes meet, I’m near enough to read the disbelief in his gaze. The blue of his eyes shines in the dim light. So I wasn’t the only one who had surrendered to tears; the thought twists my stomach.

I need no more.

I seize his arm and turn him to face me. Now we stand eye to eye. My hand slides to his waist, pulling him closer, while the other runs along the nape of his neck, drawing his face to mine until our breaths mingle.

Nothing can stop me now. My lips meet his, finding immediate response. The logs Hans had been holding crash to the floor as he wraps his arms around me, tightening the embrace.

A blaze ignites inside me, consuming me entirely.

This time, I welcome the loss of control. I surrender to it, even at the risk of losing my mind.

Hans’s kisses are as soft and delicate as mine are hungry.

I never truly imagined this ending for us, yet what I feel now defies all understanding. The wall has given way, collapsed, and we dance upon its ruins.

I hear him sigh between our kisses; a shiver runs through me. Every part of me yearns for more contact, more closeness. My body moves as if it knows exactly what to do, though it knows nothing. Without breaking the kiss, I instinctively guide us toward the canopy bed.

The mattress creaks softly under our weight. I choose that moment to break the kiss. I want to meet his gaze. I want to see everything we haven’t dared to say aloud. I’m not disappointed. His eyes speak for him, beyond words. I hope he, too, found in mine what he was searching for.

I cradle his neck as he lies back on the mattress, accompanying his movement with all the tenderness I can muster. I stretch out above him, surrendering once again to the pull of his lips and the shivers that his nearness sends through me.

This foretaste of heaven will never come again. It is a moment that belongs to us alone. I intend to savour every second, fully aware of the gift we've been given. And above all, I want him to know how deeply I love him, how much this means. No matter what follows, I want to have no regrets.

#hansry #henry x hans #kcd 2 #kcd fanart #kcd henry #kcd2 hans #hans/henry #hansry fanfiction #henry of skalitz #hans capon #kcd2 spoilers

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somepsychopomp · 3 months ago

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percy but he inherited his dad's earthshaker abilities more than anything else. Like yes he can still breathe underwater but his control over it is much weaker. Imagine Percy who can swim deeper than any human should, can sense the things in the water around him like a radar, and can swim faster than any human, but that's about it.

Give me earthshaker Percy who caused tremors in NYC whenever he went into a sneezing fits as a little kid. He was too small to affect more than his immediate surroundings, but he could get his apartment to tremble and the internal piping to creak. His mom's landlord is left constantly wondering if there's something wrong with the building's infrastructure, forcing her to move around often. Always getting an apartment at ground level, even if that meant monsters could more easily spy on them.

Earthshaker Percy who defeated Ares at 12 by opening up a massive fissure that nearly swallowed the war god whole. Percy who was far more vulnerable in the sea of monsters but trapped Polyphemus in his cave by bringing the entire thing down on top of him with his quakes. Percy who becomes Nico's crush and constant source of comparison because while Nico can manipulate the earth, it saps so much energy out of him. Meanwhile, Percy could level a small town without much effort. Percy who wrestles the Labyrinth for control, who tries again and again to bring it down from the inside even at the risk of losing his own life. Percy who uses his ability to damage mortal infrastructure en-masse to destroy the bridge that inadvertently kills Michael Yew. Percy who has to fight the Battle of Manhattan almost without using his powers at all because he can't bring himself to destroy his home city.

Percy who thought he might destroy the world by causing all of Olympus to collapse into ruin.

Perseus Jackson who controls the very earth with ease, but unlike water which can be restorative and freeing, can only bring destruction. Just like his name suggests.

#percy jackson #pjo #thinking thoughts

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heylavellan · 6 months ago

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happy friday!! for Lucanis x Rook (my beloveds): "You disobeyed a direct order. What's going on?"

-inquisimer

my beloveds <3 this deffo happens on a mission where lucanis was supposed to be in charge. but does a de riva ever listen? no!

@dadrunkwriting, mild veilguard spoilers!

hold me as i wake up

rating: g

words: 635

notes: little bit of hurt comfort. antonio uses they/them pronouns!!

When Rook woke up, their head was cradled in Lucanis' lap, a book in one hand and the other rubbing their scalp. All the tenderness of the moment was sapped away by a screaming headache, the pressure focused at their temples. They didn't dare open their eyes, the throbbing behind their eyes suggesting that just maybe low light was too much.

So instead they let out a low groan of pain, their hands numbly seeking out their fellow crow. Antonio heard Lucanis chuckle as they grasped his forearm, his hand leaving their hair to close his book and set it aside.

"You're awake," Lucanis remarked, pressing a soothing kiss to their forehead. Curse him for being caring. His hand returned to their face, gently holding it. If only touches could heal.

Their eyes remained closed. "Somewhat," they replied, pulling his wrist to their lips. An open mouth kissed into the blood vessels at his wrist. The thrum of his blood against their lips helped them feel rooted in the present. "Are you okay?"

A calloused thumb rubbed against their lips and along their cheekbone. "Knowing you are alive... That's all I need," their fellow Crow responded. That bad then?

They recalled a battle, stalking Venatori back to their hideaways in Nevarra. A protracted battle, shouted commands. And then burying themself and a few dozen Venatori under rubble with well-timed thunder.

In any case, their condition didn't matter. "The contract?" they asked. Their hands squeezed the forearm they had latched onto before seeking a hand to hold in their own.

"Corazon..." Lucanis began.

Antonio cut him off. Their health didn't matter.

"Complete," he replied abrasively.

They let the silence linger. Lucanis' breathing was ragged. The fingers holding their face suddenly gripped on tighter. Another hand tugged on their hair. Spite then. He had thoughts.

"We said run. Direct order," the demon above them rasped. It still never felt right to call the pair of them an abomination. Rook wished there was another word to describe their partner.

The hissing in Lucanis' voice began to punctuate each word. Spite must be incensed. "We had it," he practically growled.

The light outside their shut eyes threatened to control their thoughts. So their eyes remained shut. They adjusted their position, though. Let their lover hold them close, feel their wholeness of body. "You were tired," Antonio responded, their hands groping for Lucanis' face.

Spite guided their hands there. They knew by the firmness of that grip. Lucanis treated them like glass. But it was his beard beneath their palms. The well-combed curl of his moustache and the slightly raised skin of his right eyebrow were intimately familiar to their fingertips.

"I had them, corazon. I ordered you to withdraw and you disobeyed. I could have-" Lucanis paused, his voice cracking. "What's going on? You always listen."

"And risk the team?" they responded. "A few days with a headache is no matter. You'll find something to do."

They struggled to discern who was sighing. Perhaps both of them. Rook rolled their head, trying to get all the closer to him. Their horns dug into the crease of his hip, but neither of them commented.

"I'd rather us all take a few days to recover than risk your life," Lucanis murmured.

"You and Viago both," Antonio replied, punctuating their response with a yawn. "Head hurts."

"I'm still cross," the assassin grimaced, kissing their knuckles. "But we'll read to you. Emmrich said it'll be good for Spite."

Rook let their hands fall back to their side, grabbing at whatever bits of their partner felt comfortable. "Tell me the one about the handsome assassin who stole the qunari's heart?" they asked.

Before he opened his mouth to share the story, Rook had already drifted off to the Fade, curled up in Lucanis' lap.

#rook #antonio de riva #veilguard #lucanis dellamorte #rookanis #spookanis #spite #my writing #lucanis

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suchi05 · 9 months ago

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How we helped businesses succeed by providing them with innovative and effective solutions to manage risks

In today’s business landscape, managing SAP systems can be challenging. Many companies struggle with Segregation of Duties (SoD) conflicts and irrelevant transaction codes, making audits cumbersome and increasing the risk of fraud.

Our client, a chemical company with a sizable user base, faced similar issues. SoD conflicts were rampant, and irrelevant transaction codes abounded, complicating their SAP management.

ToggleNow provided a solution: their SAP-certified Verity application, paired with industry-standard risk rule sets. By restructuring roles and implementing controls, they reduced SoD conflicts by 42% and minimized role changes.

ToggleNow’s straightforward approach transformed our client’s SAP management, simplifying audits and mitigating risks effectively.

Read more: https://togglenow.com/case-studies/how-we-helped-businesses-succeed-by-providing-them-with-innovative-and-effective-solutions-to-manage-risks/

#SAP Risk management #SAP Risk Monitoring #sap risk management module #sap risk and controls #sap grc risk management #sap enterprise risk management #SAP GRC Implementation and Support

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noisilyimminentcore · 11 days ago

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5 Hidden SAP GRC Pitfalls That Could Jeopardize Your Compliance Strategy

1. “One-Size-Fits-All” RuleSet Syndrome

Many organizations implement SAP GRC with out-of-the-box rule sets and assume they’re covered and are completely Sox/SoD compliant. The problem? Standard rule sets don’t always reflect the unique business processes and risks of an enterprise. They must be utilized as a baseline.

Example: A global company using a generic SoD rule set might flag conflicts that aren’t actually risks in their specific operations, leading to unnecessary firefighting and role redesign efforts.

What is the solution? It is always recommended to tailor the rule set to align with your business needs. Involve process owners and auditors to ensure relevance. Disable those which are not relevant and add the ones what needs to be part of the rule set. For example, your custom transaction codes.

2. Over-Reliance on Automated Controls

Yes, automation is powerful, but blindly trusting automated GRC controls without proper oversight is a recipe for disaster.

Example: Automated access reviews might seem great, but if managers are just clicking the approval button without understanding the risk, you’re inviting compliance issues.

What is the solution? Combine automation with human intelligence. Train reviewers on what they’re approving and implement periodic audits.

3. The “Too Many Firefighters” Problem

Firefighter (emergency access) access is meant for temporary, critical access. But in many companies, they become a backdoor for permanent privileged access. I’ve seen in some instances where the FFIDs have SAP_ALL, SAP_NEW assigned

Example: If every second user has firefighter access “just in case,” then what’s really being controlled?

What is the solution? Reduce firefighter usage with strict policies. Ensure that the Firefighter IDs have limited and relevant access, not SAP_ALL. Look at how often your users are asking for such access. Set expiration dates, and enforce approvals before access is granted. A detailed review is must after the usage.

4. Role Design Nightmares

Ever seen a single SAP role with 500+ transaction codes? It happens more often than you’d think. Poorly designed roles create access chaos, security risks, and audit nightmares.

Example: A company that grants “Display All” access thinking it’s harmless—only to realize some reports contain sensitive payroll data.

What is the solution? Follow a least privilege approach. Display tcodes does possess risks. Design roles based on business functions, not user demands and assumptions. And, no, giving everyone SAP_ALL is not a solution!

5. The “Check-the-Box” Compliance Trap

Many organizations treat GRC as a compliance checklist rather than a risk mitigation strategy. The result? A false sense of security.

Example: An enterprise that passes an audit but later discovers a critical access loophole exploited by an insider threat.

What is the solution? Shift from a compliance-first mindset to a risk-first approach. Ask, “What’s the real-world impact of this control?” rather than just checking off audit items.

Final Thoughts: GRC is Not Just About Tools, It’s About Mindset

SAP GRC isn’t just about implementing Access Control, Process Control, or Risk Management modules—it’s about adopting a security and compliance culture. The best GRC strategies combine technology, process rigor, and human intelligence to create a resilient, risk-aware organization.

Readmore: https://togglenow.com/blog/sap-grc-hidden-pitfalls/

#SAP Risk Management #SAP access risk analysis tool #SAP GRC access control solution #SAP segregation of duties automation #SoD risk analysis for SAP

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zeldadeservesabreak · 2 years ago

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“Where did all the Sheikah tech and shrines go?”

… is one of the most annoying questions I’ve seen repeated over and over again by people and theorists. Because the answer is quite literally in your face the entire game if you just pay attention to the details.

There’s actually 3 very obvious reasons for the shrines and towers disappearing. And since I get this question a lot, I’m gonna answer them here:

1. They were repurposed by Robbie and Purah.

This is the most direct answer with evidence you can clearly see. Purah and Robbie are still tinkering with stuff, and the Purah Pad is a perfect example of this. It is very clearly still Sheikah technology. It looks and acts just like the Sheikah Slate, but it’s more refined and streamlined. So it’s pretty apparent that since the events of Breath of the Wild she and Robbie have continued their studies and made improvements on the tech.

Additionally every one of the sky view towers houses guardians underneath. This is very clear in the little cut scene that plays out when you activate one for the first time. Guardian legs pop out, and then apply the appropriate gear to you before launching you into the sky. If you pay attention to Link’s reaction as well, the first time this happens in Lookout Tower he is visibly FREAKED OUT by this. No doubt a reflexive defensive reaction to his time fighting Guardians in the last game.

So the tech isn’t entirely gone. It’s been repurposed.

2. It was dismantled on Zelda’s orders.

This is not explicitly said, but it’s heavily implied. Zelda has been traveling with Link since the first game and helping to rebuild Hyrule. Part of healing from a calamity is removing evidence of that calamity so that people can move on with their lives and not be reminded of the thousands that died.

This is also probably because Zelda feels guilty about the role she played. After all she was the one who unearthed the guardians in the first place. She set up the very same guardians that eventually got possessed by Calamity Ganon and DESTROYED THE WORLD.

Also, having finally stopped the calamity it is in Hyrule’s best interest to remove technology that could still be beneficial to your enemies. The last thing they need is another calamity happening that reactivates all the dead Guardians… again. (More on this later)

You can find evidence of this in many places where shrines once existed now only exist an empty patch that resembles the shrine’s shape. These patches are clean, do not disturb the landscape much at all, and it seems much more controlled and surgical compared to what I’m about to talk about in the next section. I believe these patches are where Zelda’s construction team are responsible for dismantling the shrines.

So it’s pretty clear to me that healing the land from the calamity by removing them and any other Sheika tech/shrine would be a priority.

3. Ganon’s Gloom destroyed the rest.

This is also not explicitly stated, but is pretty clear when you examine the facts. Gloom is extremely dangerous. Far more dangerous than the calamity’s corruption. Gloom saps your life away and is the reason all weapons in Hyrule just suddenly decayed when the upheaval happened. It’s so powerful that it literally decayed the Master Sword! The most powerful weapon in the Zelda franchise got instantly destroyed by gloom from Ganon’s initial attack.

So taking this evidence and extending it further… what’s something Ganon would want to get rid of? How about something that could be used against him? Like, say…. The divine beasts and the guardians… or how about a magical shrine that could resurrect a fallen hero?

His calamity form was destroyed by the technology initially, and while he took his revenge by possessing them the next time, the divine beasts were eventually ripped away from his control by Link and the sages were able to fire upon him yet again. So that tech is dangerous and Ganon isn’t dumb. He’s not gonna risk the same mistake happening again.

And there is evidence of this as well. If you travel around Hyrule, in many of the places where Sheikah shrines once existed you will often find bandit camps or giant gloom infestations with sink holes into the depths.

So what happened to the divine beasts and the rest of the Sheikah shrines and tech that wasn’t repurposed or dismantled? Ganon’s gloom destroyed it.

Conclusion.

I know that it’s frustrating that there aren’t many reference to these things by NPC’s. It could easily have been handled by a couple lines of dialogue by a few random characters here or there. But to be honest I look at this as just another puzzle left by the developers.

Like so many aspects of the Zelda franchise, it’s often left to you (the player) to piece together clues and small details to form your own conclusions to things. Environmental storytelling is very much a huge part of both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom’s world building. To me the fact that there are so many clues about what happened is an indication that the developers did understand that people would question this.

The problem I’m seeing is that after asking the question “where did all the Sheikah tech go?” people are either too unimaginative or very unobservant, and don’t bother trying to ANSWER that question.

The answer is in the game. It’s all around you. You’ve been walking over it, around it, and diving into it (quite literally) while you’ve been playing.

#zelda #tears of the kingdom #legend of zelda #the legend of zelda #tears of the kingdom spoilers #breath of the wild #botw #zelda theory #zelda theories #gloom #Ganon #sheikah #Sheika tech #sheikah tech

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