academiareid

[academiareid]

ARCANE LEAGUE OF LEGENDS: 2x08 - “Killing is a Cycle”

[academiareid]

sfw, vi-shaped, awk!vi is my new fav drug

cool so, being coworkers with bartender!vi, but always trying to one-up each other when you guys share shifts at the local lesbian bar -- seeing who can rack up more tips, get the most numbers -- she's got the hot butch thing going for her but you're not bad looking yourself (and you've got kinda of a manic pixie dream girl thing going for you).

flirting with each other is just par for the course, more than a given, it's baseline at this point. the constant teasing, the slight undercurrent of unresolved sexual tension thickening the air between you on the slow nights (and even on the busy ones) -- you know each other almost too well, her putting a bottle down in front of you before you can turn to try and grab it, you tossing her the bitters for whatever drink she's got queued up next.

"whoops, sorry," she grins, grazing by you, just as you turn to grab another tall glass for a highball; the space behind the bar is... not large, and you often have to squeeze by each other just to pass by, a touch of skin, the skim of fingers on the small of your back, a warm breath at the nape of your neck.

you roll your eyes even as she presses the highball glass into your hand, already filled to the top with ice.

"your welcome, sweetness," she winks.

you purse your lips, sighing as you turn back to the bar and resume your highball. 2oz of whiskey (top shelf), topped off with ginger ale. you smile as you hand the drink to one of your regulars, a tall girl with dark hair and the smoothest skin you've ever seen.

"you know she's in love with you right?" cait asks.

you resist the urge to roll your eyes again, "we're just friends," you insist, though you can't help the way your stomach twists at the thought, "and you were the one who asked for her number -- which she gave you," you add, pinning caitlyn with a look.

cait sips at her drink, cocking her head.

"sure, and it was all fun and games till i realized her heart wasn't in it. and i've got too much self respect to date someone who's clearly already taken, even if the person doing the taking insists on being thick about it," she says breezily, without a single ounce of compunction or embarrassment. you've always admired that about her, how confident she is in who she is, unafraid to ask for the things she wants, when she wants them.

you lean forward with a puff of breath, blowing a loose strand of hair from your face. glancing over, you catch vi laughing at something someone's said, her profile stark and gorgeous against the foggy street light filtering through the stained glass windows. it's a sunday night, and quieter than usual, the place filled with regulars; vi's long since commandeered the aux cord, indie rock playing soft over the speakers.

"i'm not..." you trail off as vi turns and catches your eye. there's a glint of... something smoldering behind her morning-gray gaze and it sets your every nerve end aflame.

cait scoffs, "well. you can lead a horse to water, and all," she flaps her hand, taking another sip of her drink. vi wanders over, slinging an arm around your shoulders. you swallow passed the thickness of your tongue as you try not to think about how you can feel her corded muscles against your skin.

"hey cupcake, we still on for our date this weekend?"

your stomach drops; cait laughs, tossing her hair over her shoulder.

"sure we are, vi -- i mean, who else is going to help you pick out the perfect --"

vi cuts her off with a loud cough, glaring and giving her head a sharp shake. you blink, looking between them.

"am i missing something here?"

cait's lips tug into cat-claw grin.

"always, darling," she teases, batting her lashes before she slides her card across the bar and tosses back the rest of her drink. you slide her card through the register and hand it back with a curious look.

she only shoots you another mona lisa smile before slipping out of the bar. you sigh, crinkling your nose.

"whats up, dollface?" vi asks, bumping you with her hip.

she press your lips, "so... date, huh?"

vi clears her throat, "ah -- yeah, but it's not really a date -- it's more like... uh... a... a consultation."

you pause, your hands caught under the running water in the sink.

"a consultation? for what?"

vi licks her lips; her nose ring catches in the dim bar lighting. you try not to wonder what it'd be like to kiss her, if you'd feel the ring burning cold against your skin.

"just... some stuff i wanted to ask her advice on. she's always been better at -- ah -- gifts... and stuff."

you narrow your eyes, shutting off the water.

"a gift? for who?"

vi's cheeks flush as her eyes cut away from yours, "uh... just..." she hesitates, rocking on the balls of her feet before she shoots you a lopsided smile, "just a girl i've been trying to ask out."

you feel your heart seize, your lashes flutter. you swallow hard, and try not to think too deep into it. you turn to put the clean glass with the rest on the shelf, trying to keep your hands from shaking.

"well, even without the gift... whoever this girl is... she'd be pretty stupid to turn you down."

you make your way to the other end of the bar, gathering up some leftover glasses. vi watches you with dark eyes.

"yeah? you think so?"

you nod, "sure -- i mean," you motion at her with an exaggerated gesture before wiping down a section of the bar, "you're kind of a catch."

vi lets out a laugh, it's higher than usual, breathier too. then, she clears her throat. the bar's almost empty now, the last few patrons tucked into the dark corners, chatting quietly amongst themselves.

"right then -- uh -- fuck --" she swears, and it's only then that you notice she's clenching and unclenching her fists.

time seems to unspool around you as your heartbeat thuds up against the base of your throat. you watch her glance down the bar and then back at you as if in slow motion, and you know what she's going to say half a millisecond before she says it --

"i -- i really wanted it to be perfect but... i mean, fuck it -- you're... the prettiest girl i've ever met -- not that that's the reason but --"

you let out a tiny laugh as vi stumbles over her words, her cheeks glowing redder and redder as she bites her lips.

"shit, sorry -- i... goddamnit, this is why i wanted to practice before --" she tosses the damp dishrag on the counter and takes a long breath as if to steady herself.

you shake your head, a champagne bubble giddiness eating up the center of your chest as you watch her.

"no, no, by all means --" you shrug, "take your time." you lean a hip against the bar, feeling ever so slightly insane as she finally looks up to meet your eyes.

"i mean," you intone, "it's not like you have a date this weekend or anything --"

"oh, fuck you," vi snaps, going red all the way to the tips of her ears.

"mm, wish you would," you say, the response so automatic you don't even process the words till they're out of your mouth. you clench your jaw as vi gapes at you.

"what?"

you take a deep breath, crossing your arms. if there's ever a time to lean in, it'd be now.

"did i stutter, or...?" you quirk an eyebrow.

vi stares for a second more before lunging forward to kiss you. somewhere in the bar, someone whistles and claps. you squeak at the messy press of her lips on yours -- she tastes like a whiskey sour and every single missed opportunity you'd ever let slip by. she tastes sweet; she tastes hungry.

she cups your jaw in both her palms and licks into the hot cavern of your mouth until you're breaking open for her, groaning as you stumble back against the bar, your hands finally finding purchase in the hairs at the nape of her neck.

"sweet fuck," she breathes, pulling back after what seems like an eternity and a half later.

"took ya long enough!" one of your regulars calls from the corner of the bar as his friend croons.

"shut up, loris!" vi shouts over your shoulder before turning back to you with a crooked smile.

you lick your lips, feeling lightheaded and breathless.

"so," you say, as you tug on a strand of her electric pink hair, "does that mean i don't get a present any more?"

vi laughs, "well, technically... i haven't actually asked you out yet."

you smile, nodding along, "oh right, right -- that was just a practice run, right?"

"yep, totally."

you lick your lips, "in which case... y'think we can do better?"

vi swallows, her eyes liquid with warmth as she pushes you back against the bar with both palms on your hips.

"mm... i'm sure we can figure something out."

"yeah? and..." you lean forward to languidly tease your lips against hers. vi lets out a thick groan, chasing after you even as you lean back, "that bit about fucking me...?"

vi puffs out a breath, "yeah... 'm sure we can work on that one too, princess."

[academiareid]

Hear me out…reader on Spencer’s glasses and he’s struck by how pretty she looks. Or, reader puts her glasses on at work after her contacts dry out, and the team tease her for her glasses, but Spencer can’t help but find them adorable

pretty — spencer reid

pairing: spencer reid x fem!reader ( no use of y/n ) content warnings: fluff a/n: i went with the first idea !! such a cute one <3

Spencer Reid took off his glasses for two seconds.

Literally.

Just long enough to scrub the sleep from his eyes, to blink away the exhaustion that clung to him after hours of staring at case files. The team had been working nonstop, and even his brilliant mind was starting to fog over. He set the glasses down on the table, rubbing his face with both hands before letting out a long, slow breath.

And that was all the opportunity you needed.

You had been bored out of your mind—stuck in the same chair for what felt like eternity, flipping through the same reports, waiting for something to happen. So when Spencer’s glasses sat there, unattended, you acted on impulse.

You snatched them up before he could even register they were gone.

Spencer didn’t notice.

He was too busy yawning, his jaw cracking as he stretched his arms above his head, his eyelids heavy. For a second, you thought he might actually slump forward and pass out right there on the table.

Grinning to yourself, you unfolded the glasses and slipped them onto your face.

The world immediately blurred.

Wow. You hadn’t realized just how bad his eyesight was.

Everything beyond your own hands was a hazy mess of shapes and colors. You blinked a few times, adjusting, but nope—still useless. How did he function like this?

You were still grinning when Morgan walked in.

His sharp eyes landed on you immediately, and a slow, amused smirk spread across his face.

“Well, look at you,” he said, voice loud enough to make Spencer jolt slightly in his seat. “Looking all nerdy.”

Spencer turned toward him, squinting—which was generous, because without his glasses, he could barely make out more than vague blobs of color. But then his gaze shifted to you, and his breath hitched.

There you were, his glasses perched on your nose, your lips curled in a playful smile.

“How do I look?” you asked, tilting your head.

Spencer’s mouth fell open.

He didn’t answer. Couldn’t.

Because you looked nice.

No, not just nice.

Pretty.

Really pretty.

Something about seeing you in his glasses made his chest tighten in a way he couldn’t explain.

Morgan dropped into a chair across from you, his smirk deepening as he watched Spencer’s dumbstruck expression. “Took the words right out of his mouth. Literally.”

You giggled, reaching up to take the glasses off, but Spencer’s hand twitched forward before he could stop himself.

“No—you, uh. You can leave them on. If you want.”

Your eyebrows lifted.

Spencer swallowed, heat creeping up his neck. “You… uhm. You look very pretty.”

The words came out in a rushed mumble, barely audible, but you heard them. A soft warmth spread through your chest as you bit back a smile.

“Thanks, Spencer,” you said, deliberately ignoring Morgan’s quiet chuckle from across the room.

But then you carefully slid the glasses off anyway, holding them out to him. “I think you might need these more than I do.”

Spencer’s lips twitched into a subconscious pout before he could stop himself.

“You know,” you teased, “to see things.”

He turned even redder, suddenly mortified by his own words. Why would he tell you to keep them on? He obviously needed them to see.

But before he could spiral further, you leaned forward in your chair.

Spencer’s breath caught.

Your fingers brushed against his temples, gently sweeping his hair back as you carefully slid the glasses onto his face. You nudged them up the bridge of his nose with a light touch, your fingertips lingering near his skin just a second too long.

Spencer stared at you, wide-eyed, his pulse hammering in his throat.

“You look pretty too with them on,” you murmured, your voice softer now, almost intimate.

Both of you were silent.

Spencer stared at you. Wide eyed. Mouth hanging wide open.

And then Morgan cleared his throat.

“Is he still alive?”

[academiareid]

Party4U

I wish you’d get here, kiss my face

Summary: It’s your birthday, and you throw a party in hopes Spencer Reid shows up because truth is, you only threw this party for him…

A/N: ngl writing this gave me bad flashbacks and now I never want to drink again…(I’m still going to)

BYR(b4 u Reid): Alcohol, mentions of drunk people, drunk kissing (yes lawd), awkward Spencer, season 1 Spencer, reader is over 20, no use of y/n, and sexual content. Lmk if I'm missing anything.

It was getting later into the night, people were stumbling around, dancing, taking shots, and playing beer pong. It had now become a full-blown party, and everyone seemed to be having the time of their lives.

You were a little buzzed, not too much. You were pacing yourself, holding off. You were waiting for someone. He promised he'd come. And Spencer Reid never broke a promise.

Especially not today. Not on your birthday.

“Birthday girl isn’t even drunk yet! This is not good.” Your roomate Sarah shouted, clearly several drinks in. “I’m waiting for someone.” You replied, sipping from your cup.

She rolled her eyes and snorted. “Don’t tell me you’re waiting on that nervous little FBI chihuahua.” Your mouth fell open slightly. “Don’t be rude. He’s sweet. And yes, I am waiting.”

She sighed dramatically. “Well, good luck with that. This is definitely not the kind of place he’d show up to. You’re going to get stood up.”

You shook your head. Spencer wouldn’t do that. If he wasn’t coming, he’d at least call. He’d explain.

Still, as the party kept going and the minutes ticked by, you couldn’t help but feel the little twist in your stomach. Maybe he changed his mind. Maybe he got too nervous. This really wasn’t his scene.

Maybe the party was a bad idea.

You sighed, slipping into your room. Thankfully, it was empty. No couples, no drunken chaos. Just your stuff, your bed, and the hum of bass through the walls.

You sat at your vanity, looking at yourself in the mirror. You’d put effort into tonight. Found the perfect dress, something cute but not over the top, just enough to feel confident.

You knew Spencer didn’t care about appearances like most people. That’s part of why you liked him so much. But still, you wanted him to see you at your best.

You closed your eyes, taking a deep breath in. It was silly to get this upset over a guy. You told yourself you’d take a few more drinks and forget about it in the morning.

Then your door creaked open.

“Sarah, I’ll be out in a bit.” You said without looking. But then-

“Hey.”

You turned quickly, and there he was.

Your whole face lit up. “Spencer!” You squealed, rushing to him and wrapping your arms around his neck. He froze just for a second before placing his hands nervously and gently on your waist.

“You came! I was worried, I thought maybe…” you pulled back just enough to look at him. “I thought maybe you weren’t going to show up.”

“You were worried about me not showing up?” He asked, eyebrows raised.

“Of course I was! You are my main guest.” You beamed at him. He blinked like he couldn’t quite process your words. You were always open about how you felt, always flirting, always dropping not-so-subtle hints. But somehow, Spencer Reid, certified genius, 187 IQ, turned into a socially anxious mess whenever you did.

It wasn’t that he didn’t notice. He just wasn’t sure how to reciprocate it back in a way that wasn’t so awkward. You made flirting seem so effortless, so easy. He on the other hand would just make a total fool of himself.

You tugged his hand. “Come on, we’re taking a shot.”

But he didn’t budge. You looked back and saw the nerves written all over his face. “Everything okay?”

“I,um, I don’t know anyone here. And I’ve never… drank before.” He admitted.

You tilted your head, smiling at him softly. “Aw, I get to pop your cherry?” You teased, then quickly added. “I’m kidding Spence. You don’t have to drink. We can just hang out and laugh at the ones who had too much.”

His eyes softened. “I don't want you to be bored. It's your birthday.”

“Well you're here so I won't be bored.” you said sincerely. “No, it's okay… I want us to have fun. I’ll get over it.”

“Spencer we don't have to, I promise you,” you assured him, looking deep into his eyes so he knew how serious you were. “I want to.” He replied.

You gave his hand a reassuring squeeze. “We’ll take baby sips first.”

And then, to his surprise, you kissed his cheek. He blushed instantly.

You led him out into the crowd, fingers still laced with his, grabbing two bottles. “We can sip on these until you get a bit more comfortable.” You said into his ear, he nodded.

You then introduced him to a few friends, watching his posture shift slowly, the tension starting to ease once he realized no one was judging him. If anything, your friends seemed impressed with how highly you spoke of him. He noticed the way you held onto his arm, how you made him feel like he belonged.

“How’re you feeling?” You asked as the two of you stepped outside for some air.

“I feel… good. You know a lot of people.”

“Yeah, I tried to keep it small but, well, word got around.”

“I think it’s fascinating. That you’re so comfortable with people.” You looked up at him, smiling. “Some people think I talk too much.”

“I like it. I like listening to you talk.” He said it like it surprised even him. You blushed. “Really?”

He nodded, then straightened up. “Actually… I think I’m ready for something stronger.”

You grinned. “Alright, big guy. Let’s go.”

Inside, you let him pick the drink. You poured two shots and handed him his cup.

“You ready?”

He gave a tiny nod, and you clinked cups. The moment he drank it, he coughed, making the worst face. You handed him a chaser immediately.

“Thanks.” He said hoarsely, lips pink and eyes wide.

Soon, he loosened up even more. You could tell, he held your hand more confidently, his hand occasionally finding your waist. You liked it. He seemed…freer.

“Beer pong?” You suggested. He gave you a look. “I don’t know. I’m not great at throwing things.”

“You’re good at math. I’m sure there’s some equation you can solve to get it right.” He smiled. “I’m pretty sure the game requires physical coordination, too.”

You looked him up and down. “Well, physically, you look good.” You teased giving him a thumbs up. He blushed and you led him to the table.

Shockingly, you two were winning. Granted, your opponents were very, very drunk, but still.

When Spencer made the second-to-last cup, you cheered, high-fiving him. Your fingers interlaced and lingered, until he pulled away.

You turned toward the table, ready to shoot your shot until your felt Spencer’s hand find your waist, then slid down your back to the hem of your dress slightly adjusting it because it had ridden up a bit.

Your breath caught.

So did his.

He couldn’t believe he just did that, neither could you.

You won the game. Of course.

You guys took celebratory shots, Spencer was getting better and better each time.

Spencer sat on the couch and gestured to his lap. “What?” You asked, heart skipping. He didn’t answer, just gently pulled you down to sit on him.

One of his arm wrapped around your waist, resting on your thigh, while the other interlaced with your hand.

“Are you comfortable?” He whispered into your ear. “I always am when I’m with you.”

He looked up at you smiling. Butterflies. Everywhere.

You both sat, just watching people, content in the buzz of the room, the safety of his presence.

His fingers were now smoothing over your skin, rubbing gently, innocently, on your thigh.

You knew he probably didn’t even realize what he was doing, but it made your thoughts spiral. Your heart beat faster.

You both sat together for a little longer, having conversation about everything, your guys cheeks were flush but starting to slowly cool down. You could feel Spencer’s gaze on you, soft but nervous, like he was building up the courage to say something.

“I, um… I have a present for you.” He said quietly, fingers now fidgeting with the hem of your dress. Your heart skipped a beat. “Spence, you didn’t need to-”

“I wanted to.” He cut in, his voice firm but still shy. His eyes searched yours. “Can I give it to you? In your room?”

Your stomach fluttered. You nodded, lips tugging into a smile as you stood and offered your hand. He took it, his fingers trembling slightly against yours as you led the way to your room.

You shut the door behind him, and took a seat at the edge of your bed, and he joined you. Close enough for your thighs to brush. You watched, your chest tightening, as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box. He opened it carefully, revealing a delicate gold necklace with a tiny diamond that shimmered under the soft light.

“Spencer…” your voice came out barely above a whisper. “This is beautiful.”

“You like it?” He asked, eyes hopeful, and nervous. “I love it.” You said genuinely, looking at him. “It’s perfect. I’m wearing this everyday.”

His mouth twitched into a small, relieved smile. “Can I put it on you?”

You turned without hesitation, he brushed your hair out the way, his fingers lightly touching your skin, featherlight and cautions, and that little contact sent a warm ripple down your spine.

He clasped it at the nape of your neck with slow, precise movements. His fingers lightly ran down your spine, and you turned to him, throwing your arms around his neck in a hug. “Thank you. I love it so much, Spence.”

“I’m really glad.” He said, his voice soft, eyes a little stunned by your closeness. His hand smoothed up and down your back, you pull back a little.

Your guys faces only inches apart, eyes low, and dazed. Spencer couldn’t handle it anymore, he was tired of depriving himself of you.

His hand came up, gently cradling your jaw, his touch careful. Then, slowly, he leaned in and pressed his lips to yours. The kiss was soft, hesitant, he was scared you were going to pull away.

But you didn’t.

Instead, you kissed him back like your life depended on it, you had been waiting so long for this moment and you were even willing to wait longer. Your desperation flattered him. He never imagined he could make someone feel this way.

“I’ve wanted this so bad.” You murmured against his lips, brushing your thumb along his cheeks. “Really?” He asked, you just nodded and deepened the kiss more.

His hands found your waist, bolder now, pulling you onto him, your words had given him confidence. You settled there easily, legs on both sides, hands cradling his face as your kisses turned more insistent.

You pushed him down onto your bed, hovering over him, your lips moving from his lips down to his jaw. When his hands dropped from your waist, unsure again, you gently grabbed them and brought them right back to where they belonged.

You continued leaving a trail down his neck, teeth grazing his skin, listening to the tiny breathy sounds he couldn’t hold in. You barely heard it but, it was there. Your name, a whisper that lit something wild inside of you.

You reached for his tie, loosening it, and discarding it somewhere on the floor in your room. Your fingers hovered over the buttons of his shirt, you glanced up at him, silently asking for permission.

He nodded slowly, jaw tight with want, and you undid them, one by one, revealing more of him. He propped himself on his elbows, and pulled you into him for another kiss.

You slowly slid the shirt off of him, moving the fabric off of his arms. His fingers slipped beneath the hem of your dress, dragging it up slowly, cautiously, until the edge of your underwear peeked.

You broke the kiss to take in this sight of him, your fingers exploring the planes of his chest, the softness of his skin. You planted kisses on him, over his heart, and when he tilted your chin up with his finger, his lips found yours again, hungrier.

You felt him, hard beneath you, pressing up against you, and instinctively, your hips rolled down against him, pulling a surprised moan from his mouth.

“Spencer…” you breathed out, your voice barely hanging on. His hands gripped your waist again, then slid lower to your ass, guiding your hips as he moved you over him with more intention. His breath was shaky, his voice low and warm and desperate.

He said your name, like a confession.

You grind your hips down again, his hands gripped you tighter, encouraging you to keep going, to keep moving against him. His eyes fluttered closed for a moment, mouth parted in disbelief at the pleasure that rolled through him.

He looked completely undone, and it was just from you sitting on him, fully clothed.

You leaned down, kissing along the column of his throat, letting your lips linger just beneath his ear. “You okay?” You whispered, breath warm against his skin.

He nodded quickly, then stammered out. “Y-yeah. Definitely. More than okay.”

You smiled, biting back a laugh, because the way he looked, completely wrecked already, was maybe the hottest thing you’d ever seen. You sat up slightly, hands trailing down his chest, appreciating every inch of him.

“You’re really something else.” You said, brushing your thumb across his lower lip. He caught your hand, kissed your palm. So gentle and slow it made your breath hitch.

“You’re the one that’s something else.” He murmured, voice hoarse. “You’re perfect, everything you do.”

That made your chest ache, you leaned down, kissed him again, slow, deep, and meaningful. You needed him to feel what words can't say.

Spencer grabbed your waist, gently guided you onto your back, moving over you cautiously.

His mouth moved to the side of your neck, your dress slipped higher as you spread your legs slightly, letting him fit between them.

Your fingers found the back of his neck, pulling him to your lips. Spencer’s hand slid slowly up your body, tentative but curious, his fingers tracing the edges of your dress as it rose. When he finally pulled back to look at you, really look, his eyes landed on your black lace underwear, and he just admired.

He couldn’t believe this was real, you felt like a dream.

His fingers brushed over the fabric, hesitant. Gentle. You watched the awe on his face, the way he took you in like you were something sacred.

“Do you… want to take them off?” You softly ask, your voice barely above a whisper.

His eyes darted up to meet yours, wide and startled. His chest rose and fell faster now, the weight of the moment clearly settling over him.

“We don’t have to.” You said quickly. “We can take things slow, Spencer.”

He swallowed hard, and gave you a nod. “I-I want this. I really do. I just… don’t want this to be…” he paused, searching for the right words. “I don’t want it to feel like a one-time thing. You’re not that for me.”

You nodded, smiling at him, your chest warm. “I know. Me neither.”

With a soft exhale, he gently reached for the hem of your dress, pulling it back down to cover you up.

He moved off of you, grabbed your hand pulling you up on your feet. His hands were careful, reverent, as he adjusted the strap of your dress onto your shoulder.

You reached for his shirt, draping it back over his shoulders and slowly buttoning it up, watching his cheeks flush a soft red under your gaze.

He cleared his throat. “What?”

“Nothing.” You said, smiling.

He hesitated, then asked. “Did you… want to keep going?”

You but your lip, nodding. “Of course I did. But I agree. When we do decide to… take that next step… it should be special. Not with a bunch of drunk people stumbling around downstairs.”

He laughed quietly, relieved. “Yeah..”

You kissed him again, softly.

“Should we go back to the party?” You asked, fingers laced with his. He nodded. “You go for now, I’ll be out there in a bit.” He tells you, you smirked at him knowing why he was going to stay back.

“Alright, if you need any help or anything just give me a call.” You teased, he looked at you shaking his head at your teasing. “Very funny.” He sarcastically said, but you caught the small smile tugging at his lips.

You opened your bedroom door and stepped out, flashing him one more smile before closing it behind you.

“Where have you been?” Sarah asked the second you turned around. “I was with Spencer.” You replied casually.

Her eyes widen. “Did you guys just-”

“No, we didn’t.” You cut her off quickly. “Let’s step away, come on.”

You led her away from your room, and thankfully she had gotten distracted by someone else and wandered off.

You glanced around the house, realizing how tired you were of the party. Your home felt overcrowded, loud, and no longer fun. You were close to calling the cops on your own party, but luckily the neighbors beat you to it.

You stood outside as an officer explained the noise complaint and curfew.

“Alright, sir. I’ll shut it down.” You said with a polite smile. He nodded, and you waved him off.

Back inside, you cut the music and made the announcement. “Alright guys, party’s over.” You watched everyone slowly trickle out. “Sorry.” You said to a few as they passed.

Spencer found you shortly after. He looked concerned. “What happened?”

“Police got called.” You told him with a shrug.

“Oh, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” You smiled. “Honestly, I was about to call them myself if people didn’t start leaving soon.” He laughed, and you joined him.

Once it was just the two of you, and your very drunk roommates who had knocked out in their rooms, you both started cleaning up a little.

“It’s a mess.” You said, tossing red solo cups into the trash bag. “Yeah. People are gross.” He muttered as he poured out a half-full beer. “Thank you for helping me.” You said sincerely. “No problem.” He replied, flashing you a sweet smile.

After most of the mess was cleaned, you both settled on the couch. You leaned into his side, his arm wrapping comfortably around you.

“Can you spend the night?” You hesitantly asked, titling your head up to look at him. He nodded almost instantly. “Of course.”

You smiled, but he suddenly stood up.

“Where are you going?”

“Left something in the kitchen. I’ll be back.” He assured you. You nodded, watching him walk off. When he returned, your eyes lit up. He was holding a small cake with lit candles. It was your birthday cake, the one you had completely forgotten about.

He started singing softly, and your cheeks hurt from how hard you were smiling.

“Make a wish.” He said once he finished, and you did. You closed your eyes and blew out the flames.

He held the cake out toward you. “Take a bite.”

You eyes him suspiciously but leaned in anyway, and sure enough, he gently pushed the cake into your face. Just a little frosting dotted your nose and chin.

“Spencer!” You gasped, laughing as you lightly hit his arm. He laughed too, setting the cake down, and then leaned in to wipe the frosting from your skin with his finger. You watched him as he brought it to his lips, sucking it clean.

He moved closer, pressing his lips to yours.

“Happy birthday.” He whispered as he pulled back just slightly. You smiled at him. “Thank you.” And then you kissed him again, slower, softer…

Dividers from @hyuneskkami !!

Writing this was fun!! I love bold Spencer! 🤭 also listen to the song, I just rediscovered it and became obsessed again. Live, Love, Laugh Charli xcx <3

Thank you to all who reblog & comment!! I really appreciate it sm!

~ Tag List ~

@samslovebug @alastorssimp @sleepysongbirdsings @khxna

[academiareid]

big fan of whatever they had going on

[academiareid]

YOU HAVE 4 MESSAGES FROM : vi x f!reader vi is typing . . . lang. , enemies -> lovers if you squint REPLY NOW ? . . . “ howdy neighbor ”

LEIGH REPLIED TO YOUR MESSAGE : absolutely freaked out at 4am (hello from now 10 am……) freak bitch (vi) is backkkk get her out of here before i pounce stupid lesbian

© poemeater . do not copy, repost, or plagiarize.

[academiareid]

Knight!Vi has me in a chokehold rn I can’t lie..

Whether you’re a princess or a maid or whoever you are she’d be stunningggjejdjdjs

She’d protect you with her life istg. Can’t get enough of this woman. And when she’s all sweaty from training??

Or coming back from a battle and seeing you after not seeing you for a while???

I’m gonna collapse🫣

oof oof just thinking about knight!vi laughing and joking with the rest of the young knights, but turning into a blushing puddle the second she meets your eyes in the mess hall (all the men around her start whooping and wolf-whistling until she snaps at them to quit it because it's rude to act like that in front of the crown princess), looking back at you with a shy little smile and a lopsided shrug. you, cocking your head with a tiny wink, going back to listening to your father drone on about foreign politics.

knight!vi coming back from battle, victorious, her armor and chainmail stained dark with blood, the color already oxidizing to an ominous brown-black. there are streaks of something on her face, smeared across her cheek, something dark enough for your question whether it's blood or dirt -- her tearing off her helmet and nearly stumbling as she swings off her horse, her chest heaving.

you're struggling out from behind a row of guards twice the size that you are, relieved tears in your eyes when she finally drops down on one knee in front of you, one of her fists pressed to her chest in the customary salute --

"i'm back," she says, her voice a little hoarse, her words a little breathless, "just like i promised, princess," she adds, glancing up with a particular light in her eyes.

it takes everything in you not to kiss her right then.

instead, you straighten your spine and flatten your shoulders, your voice only shaking ever so slightly as you raise it above the sound of the whistling wind --

"good, and you must remember, you're always to come back to me."

vi's smile is tired and all too wide.

"yes, princess... always."

[academiareid]

PLEASE elaborate on the version of knight!vi where reader is asking her to show her how “the matters of the bedroom work” PLEASE. you would genuinely have my soul i beg

also adore your fics have the best day!!!

hnnnnghhhh okay okay okay okay i am def gonna write more in the knight!vi universe but like -- +18, mdni, vi-shaped and also very historically inaccurate

knight!vi who gets assigned to be your personal protection by your father, the king, bc he doesn't trust any of the other knights, who are all "young men of a certain elk", and he doesn't think to consider the fact that you might not be interested at all in young men at all, regardless of their "elk".

vi though -- you've always had your eye on her, the way her body is so sculpted, the way that she can keep up with any of the "young men" in question, in the mess hall, drinking and laughing and making dirty jokes. and sure, she tries to be respectful, but you see the way she watches you too, her eyes lingering on the bend of your corseted waist just a beat too long to be totally innocent, the way her eyes go wide when you catch her, the way her cheeks flush and she tries to look like she wasn't just staring every time you meet her gaze.

knight!vi who could swear that you'll be the death of her, with the way you court trouble, and its nearly all she can do to keep you from being discovered by the king, pleading with you when you try to sneak out for the nth time that month, her fingers clasped around your wrist, trying not to think about how soft your skin feels compared to hers.

"oh come now, vi... it's not like i'm doing anything bad..." you say, and the way your voice drags over the word "bad" makes her want to jump into a pit of venomous snakes -- it'd be less perilous than the traitorous thundering of her heart, or the way her stomach clenches at the sensual sweep of your lashes as you bat your lids at her.

"princess," she says, trying to keep the exasperation out of her voice, "you know the king --"

"what my father --" you say, raising your voice slightly as you flounce back to your mirror and resume brushing out your hair, "doesn't know won't hurt him," you finish, resolutely setting down your gem-encrusted brush. it's a beautiful thing, glittering in the flickering candle-light. vi's eyes linger on it, wondering how many families it could feed for the winter if it were sold at market.

she swallows around a soft sigh.

you shoot her a triumphant little grin, knowing you've won.

"so -- are you coming, or not?"

knight!vi who starts to relax around you after a while, who tells herself that it's harmless, the charming banter, the careless little quips, the way you lean into her touch for comfort -- she tells herself that she's just upholding her sacred oath -- she is duty bound to protect you, to do well by you, and to keep your best interests at heart. and isn't that what she's doing? and if that includes offering you a hand to hold when you need it, a shoulder to cry on when you're frustrated with your father's growing impatience for you to marry then --

so be it.

knight!vi who overhears you one night, your pitched whimpers and bitten-off moans almost unmistakable (because she'd be lying if she hadn't found herself imagining what you must sound like); she moves as if in slow motion, her limbs shifting without much thought from her -- she watches herself almost from outside of herself as she pushes into your chambers and finds you -- your skin glistening in the dim candle-light, one of your hand fisted in the silken sheets of your bed, the other shoved between your thighs, your hips rocking down --

"princess --?" her voice comes out hoarse, and you gasp, scrambling back up the bed, eyes wide, but the moment you see her, you swallow, letting out a tiny whine.

"v-vi --"

vi nearly crumples, her knees going weak (what she wouldn't do to hear you moan her name like that again, and again, to be the one kissing it from your lips, to work you open over her fingers till her name is the only one you can remember --)

"oh -- fuck -- apologies, princess -- i -- i didn't mean --" she tries to spin around, her cheeks burning as she realizes what she's doing, what she'd walked in on.

you clear your throat delicately; there's a soft shuffling of sheets.

"i -- well, there's no use being coy about it now, i suppose..." you say, your voice flippant, though vi can hear the subtle shake beneath your words. she squeezes her eyes shut once and takes a breath.

"no, princess -- it was inappropriate of me to -- interrupt --" she turns and drops to one knee, her head lowered.

"oh stop it --" you huff, and you sound so petulant that she looks up, only to find you sitting up, your hair a mermaid tangle falling over your shoulders, your skin glistening in the dim half-light. you look nothing short of ethereal.

"princess..."

you bite your lips, looking suddenly bashful, glancing at her before your eyes fall back onto your lap. you start to pick at an invisible loose thread in your silken sheets.

"i -- i thought that since... my father's so dead set on marrying me off... i might as well --" you swallow, waving a flippant hand, though the way your voice trembles leaves vi soft and breathless.

"might as well..." she repeats, letting her voice trail off as she takes a hesitant step forward. you make a face, cheeks burnished beneath the flickering candlelight.

"no one talks to you about this --" you wave your hand again, casting about for the right word, but finding none, you shrug, "stuff."

vi lets out an incredulous laugh, though she manages to pass it off as a cough as you shoot her a half-hearted glare.

"none of your tutors ever..." vi asks.

you roll your eyes, "you really think my royal tutors are going to teach me about the what happens in the marriage chambers?" you slump back into your fortress of pillows, "i know less about sex than the common milkmaid."

vi sighs, carefully perching on the edge of your bed. a part of her is thankful that she'd chosen to forego her heavy armor in favor of a lighter leather tunic. she props her elbows on her knees, legs spread, and tries to think.

"i'm sure it's not as bad as you --"

"how on earth am i to pleasure a -- a man if i can't even pleasure m-myself?" you sound pained, exasperated. vi purses her lips, heat crawling up the back of her neck as a truly terrible idea slithers into her mind. it coils her gut and tangles at her heartstrings. it makes her mouth water and her throat squeeze.

"well --" she says, her words halting, "i don't know much about men..." she keeps her voice as steady as she can, her gaze fixed on a middling point, her entire body angled away from you as if she could will this idea away even as the words tease passed her traitorous lips --

"but i do know a few things about pleasuring women."

knight!vi who no longer wonders if you'll be the end of her because now she knows -- now she knows how you look, your body arched over your silken linens, how you sound when you gasp in pleasure, how your lashes flutter seconds before you come undone around her fingers, your breath heaving from your chest, your eyes unfocused, glazed over with want as your fingers search her out.

"there... easy, princess..." vi soothes as you soften into the tangle of pillows and rucked up sheets.

you let out a breathy little laugh, blowing a strand of hair from your face. you look radiant, spring-kissed and flower-strewn and vi has fought against warriors three times her size but somehow, it's still the hardest thing she's ever done, pulling away from you --

"well," you say, pushing up onto your elbows and cocking your head at her, your doe-eyes dark and wide, "i think that does it."

vi frowns, watching you. you offer her a corner of your bedsheets to wipe her fingers, she stares for a whole three seconds before she realizes what you're doing and hastily shakes her head. you flash her a lopsided little grin before dropping it.

"that does... what, exactly?" she's almost afraid to ask, and under any other circumstance, she might've been stripped of her rank for speaking so informally to you, but given that it isn't under any other circumstance (and she's still got your juices dripping down her wrist) --

"i shall tell my father that i no longer wish to be wed."

"what?" vi gapes.

you tug down your nightgown with neat, prim little movements, tucking your feet underneath you as if your thighs hadn't been wrapped around her forearm just minutes ago.

"you've proven to me something that i've suspected for a long while but --" you sigh, reaching for your water glass. vi makes a short, abortive movement towards it before thinking the better of it and keeping still. you take a small, contemplative sip of water, "well, it's not exactly orthodox, but there's no use lying to papa about it."

vi frowns, her heartbeat quickening in her chest as she blinks at you.

"which is...?" she hedges.

you stare at her, almost expectant as you flutter your fingers through the air.

"that i could never be satisfied by a man, because... i simply don't seem inclined towards them that way."

vi licks at her suddenly very dry lips.

"highness, i'm not certain that's how political marriages work."

you roll your eyes, "oh highness, now, am i?"

vi flushes, her eyes downcast.

you scoff, "no, i'm perfectly well aware of how political marriages work, my most loyal knight," you tick your tongue over her title and she almost winces, but she glances up to find you grinning, that self-same lopsided little thing, sharp as daggers, sharp as the first thin crescent of a waxing moon.

"but. i refuse to be married to someone a don't love, and seeing as i could never love a man, i'm afraid the only answer is for me to never be wed."

again, vi frowns. "but... the throne --"

"will come to me when my father dies."

"no woman's ever ruled without anyone by her side before."

your grin stretches and stretches, and for the first time in a long while, vi remembers that you are most definitely your father's daughter.

"i never said i'd be alone."

vi gulps, "then... who'll you have?"

you flick a strand of hair from your bare, light-kissed shoulder.

"i'll have you."

[academiareid]

ARCANE S2E01 | “Heavy is the Crown”

[academiareid]

Her and this long hair fuck-

[academiareid]

ughh look at her

[academiareid]

Vi + muscles

[academiareid]

jock!vi had just finished washing up in the locker rooms when you walked in. she turned around at the sound of the door opening, a towel hanging dangerously low on her hips. vi raised an eyebrow as you shuffled in timidly, the corner of her mouth curling up into a smirk when she took in the tight fitting, bedazzled cheerleading uniform you had on.  

vi raked a hand through her damp hair, before tilting her head towards you. you froze, lips parted and eyes wide. you didn’t know where to look. was it her thick biceps that looked even wider than your own face? the dark tattoos adorning her skin? or the way the water droplets seemed to glimmer off her defined abs, and—

“like what you see?” 

the sound of her low, teasing voice almost sent you right off the edge. you averted your gaze, body growing hot with embarrassment. 

“s-sorry! i…” you mumbled, trying to come up with an excuse, but the way the pink haired jock was staring at you made your throat tighten, any semblance of coherent thought disappearing from your brain.

“no worries, sparkles.” vi chuckled as she took a step towards you. she made no effort in securing the loose towel on her hips, and you thanked whatever deity above that she had a bra on, because if she didn’t, you don't think you would have survived to see another day.

“so, what are you here for?” vi asked, blue eyes watching you intently.

you blinked. right, the reason why you came into their locker rooms. 

“oh-” your voice cracked, and you awkwardly coughed to clear your throat. 

shit. okay, breathe. 

you willed yourself to focus on the tiled wall behind vi, because just acknowledging the existence of the ridiculously attractive woman in front of you was enough to make you brain short-circuit.

“i was told there were spare pom poms here.”

“oh? i think i know where they are.” 

vi turned around, and you physically felt your heart stop for a second. 

the wide expanse of her back was completely exposed, tatted, and mouth-wateringly hot. you watched her reach up to one of the cabinets above a locker, back muscles contracting under her still damp skin. you’d sell your soul to have the image ingrained in your brain forever.

“hey, sparkles?” 

you snapped out of your thoughts, finding vi watching you with an amused smile. “y-yes?”

“you going to take ‘em?” vi stretched her hand forward, offering you two pom poms. 

you took the two tufts of fluff from her, hands clenching tightly on the fuzzy material as you muttered a quiet thanks. your eyes flickered up to hers one more time, and you immediately regretted your decision. vi was staring down at you through heavy lidded eyes, powder blues watching you so intently you could feel a heat starting to pool in your stomach. 

you quickly looked away, heading for the door before you were really going to lose your mind. 

“see you in the match later.” vi called out. 

you didn’t have the guts to turn back around, opting for a small nod before you hurried away from the locker rooms. 

jock!vi who winked at you when she ran out into the field for the afternoon game. you could barely focus on the routine, the image of the pink haired footballer kept resurfacing in your mind, her muscles, her smile, her teasing voice — just thinking about her was enough to turn your cheeks pink. 

but you weren’t the only one who was distracted. 

“vi, i need your head in the game, yeah?” the coach said to her sternly during half time.

vi nodded, only for her eyes to trail off the second her coach started talking to her teammate. she smiled a little when she spotted you in the stands with the other cheerleaders, seriously wondering how she had never noticed you before.

“vi!”

vi flinched, tearing her focus away from you. “yes, ready!” she jumped up to her feet, jogging back up to the pitch. 

jock!vi who couldn’t take her eyes off you during the afterparty. she should honestly be reflecting on her subpar performance, but the dress you were wearing was just a little too distracting. the fabric hugged your curves perfectly, the dark maroon complementing your complexion perfectly, revealing the perfect amount of your skin. vi watched you from a distance, staring in a trance as you talked and laughed with your friends. 

for the first time ever, vi found herself desperate. 

she was desperate for your attention, desperate to run her roughened hands over your soft skin, to kiss those plump lips of yours until the makeup you perfected became smudged all over. 

vi downed another shot, and pushed past her teammates, weaving through the crowd to finally get to your side. 

“hey, sparkles.” 

you turned around, smiling at her. “hi, violet.” the soft way you uttered her name had her melting. 

vi leaned into you, resting a hand on your shoulder. your friends sent each other a few knowing looks, slowly inching away from the two of you. 

“enjoying yourself?” vi was so close that even under the dim lighting of the party, you could see the smirk tugging at the corners of her lips.

“yeah.” you breathed out.

she was so close, way too close. you could feel her hot breath on your cheek, smell her smoky cologne … in your moment of distraction someone shoved past you, making you lose your balance. your hand flailed out, spilling the contents of your drink over yourself, soaking the front of your dress.  

vi was quick to catch you, wrapping an arm around you and steadying you against her chest. 

“easy there, princess.”

you could feel your heart hammering against your chest as you regained your footing. “shit…” you mumbled, feeling the damp liquid seeping through the fabric of your dress. vi seemed to have noticed that too, given that her arm was pressed up against your ribcage. your face burned with embarrassment, and you pushed yourself away from her. 

“sorry, i—”

“don’t apologise.” vi interrupted you, her voice firm, but her touch remained gentle. “let’s get you cleaned up.” 

jock!vi who honestly did not plan on kissing you in the bathroom. it just… happened. she was pressing toilet paper on the damp spot of your dress, and — okay, maybe she did graze her fingertips over the top of your breasts on purpose, but it was hard not to tease you, when you’d jut your lower lip out into that adorable pout. she never would have thought that you would pull her down, slotting your lips over hers.

despite her surprise, vi was eager to reciprocate. 

she moved against you desperately, one hand resting on the back of your neck, holding you in place, and the other roaming slowly down your body to rest on your waist. her lips were hot and eager, pressing against yours in a delicious frenzy. 

vi pulled you closer, groaning against your lips when your chest pressed up against hers. you shivered when you felt her fingertips teasing the hem of your dress, moving just upwards slightly, grazing the lace hem of your underwear. 

“hurry the fuck up!”

a loud bang on the flimsy wooden door made the two of you jump. and vi was quick to turn around with an annoyed frown. she opened her mouth, about to cuss out whoever was outside, but the touch of your hand on her bicep stopped her. 

vi looked down at you, and you thought she looked so pretty like this. lips swollen, eyes glazed with desire. 

the door rattled with another thump of a fist, and much to her dismay, you hopped off the sink top, straightening out your dress.

“w-we should head out.” you mumbled.

vi wanted to argue, but the pleading look in your eyes shut her up instantly. 

jock!vi who could not get a wink of sleep that night. every time she closed her eyes, the sight of you, face flushed, plump lips reddened, would plague her mind like a sweet, tortuous curse. vi wanted to hear your sweet moans against her ear, to have your body trapped between her hands. but most of all, she wanted to have you beside her, to fall asleep with her face buried in the nook of your shoulder, arms wrapped around your waist as she hugs you close. 

oh. fuck.

jock!vi, who finally realised that she was completely and utterly smitten. 

[academiareid]

artist nayamiooo on X

[academiareid]

artist nayamiooo on X

[academiareid]

vi loves it so much when you play with her hair -- the ends are getting long, but she knows you like it so she hasn't brought up trying to get it cut. she loves the way your fingers feel, twisting through the roughly dyed ends (though the darkened tips are slowly washing out, with every subsequent shower and rinse), the way you absently tug on them when you're talking to her, about everything, about anything.

she grins, her whole body slouched between your legs as you run her ends through your hands over and over and over.

"hm?" you pause, even as she readjusts to fit more snuggly against you.

she shakes her head, peering over her should to slate you a smile.

"nothing, sweetness -- keep on doing what you're doing."

you laugh, resuming the movement.

"but like i was saying -- it was all so random, but i thought --"

she lets your voice wash over her like the sweet lull of the tide, the warm kiss of water at her toes, the soft sink of her limbs into the sand. and she's never been to the ocean, but she thinks that this must be what it feels like to be held by it --

to know that whether she decides to sink or float, you'd still be there to catch her, to hold her, and that if she were to close her eyes and let herself go, the taste of your lips will still be just as sweet under water.

[academiareid]

direct continuation of this; part of the apt neighbor!vi au

apartment neighbor!vi who disappears, or at least tries to -- no more weekend visits, no more tuesday night movie dates -- you still see her, or rather, catch glimpses of her here and there, but she's always ducking away or off somewhere before you can catch her, and for a someone who's so conspicuous, she's more slippery than you could've ever imagined. and at first, you're angry -- hurt, confused -- but the pain dulls after a week, two, and soon enough, there's only the barest flinch whenever you see her silhouette slipping down the hallway when you catch her coming back from the gym, or in the mail room --

once, you catch the bright chime of powder's voice as vi opens her door, and you could've sworn you heard your name, but the next second, the door's slamming closed behind her, and powder's voice cuts off like an old record.

apartment neighbor!vi who still goes to the gym, and it's the only real place you see her, but she's always got her headphones banded over her bright red hair, her eyes narrowed -- the bandages around her knuckles are tattered, stained with what looks like blood. there are new cuts and bruises scattered along her arm and what looks like a fresh scab at the corner of her lip.

you don't ask; you figure that if she'd wanted you to know, she would've told you by now.

apartment neighbor!vi who is not there the first time you let curiosity get the better of you and maps the way to her family's pub -- it's a divey kind of place, but spacious and well-kept, with dartboards lining the walls and an old fashioned jukebox in the corner. the man behind the counter glances up with a grin, a slight dip between his brows, an old pipe between his lips.

"bit early for a girl like you to come wanderin' in here," he says, with a voice that rumbles through you, even from a distance. you clear your throat and check your watch -- yeah, 2pm on a wednesday isn't peak hours for a bar like this but it's what you were hoping for.

"oh -- sorry, are you guys not open yet?" you glance back at the door, afraid that you'd missed some sort of signage but the man just laughs and shakes his head.

"nah, we're open. c'mon in," he gestures to the empty bar top, and sets down a glass with a heavy hand.

you eye it for a second before skittering over and sliding up onto one of the barstools, glancing around to take in the scene.

"lookin' for vi, i assume?"

you jump at the sound of vi's name, your eyes slingshotting back to the man, who breaks out into a loud bark of laughter, pouring you a full glass of water.

"h-how did -- has vi said something?"

the man shrugs, pushing the water towards you; you grab it for lack of anything better to do, taking a tentative sip as he eyes you with beady, beatle-black eyes, shining with mirth.

"you pour people drinks for long enough and you start to get a knack for puzzlin' out what they want when they walk in -- kinda person they might be, why they're comin' in -- gets to be a kinda game if you get good enough at it," he leans in with a conspiratorial wink that sets you at ease. you feel your own shoulders drop a bit as you set the glass back down on the counter and lick your lips.

"so you must be vander," you say, the name ringing back through your sifted memories -- vi on a tuesday night, after a movie about race cars or something, chattering about the bar and how her stepdad always gets on her about flirting with the customers too much.

vander nods, taking a soft puff of his pipe and leaning back.

"and you must be the neighbor girl that vi's not been able to shut up about," he muses, making you gag on your next sip of water. he lets out another booming laugh and reaches behind the counter to hand you a stack of napkins. you mop at the water dripping down your chin, feeling your cheeks burn.

"sorry, sorry -- forgive an old man his good time," he says with another good-natured wink before his jovial expression flattens, "but if you're here wonderin' what she's been doin'... then you're fresh outta luck, darlin'."

you frown, cupping your fingers around your half-drunk glass of water.

"i'm just... worried about her."

vander grunts, shrugging up a single, massive shoulder.

"standing room only on that bus, i'm afraid."

you let out a soft scoff of laughter, nodding.

"it's sweet of you to come knockin', but... she's a stubborn one, and if she doesn't wanna tell us then..." another shrug, another sigh, "no one's gonna be able to force it outta her."

you nod again, feeling rather wilted as vander reaches over to pat your shoulder with a large hand. he chuckles.

"tell ya what, here -- have a drink -- on the house."

he grabs a wine glass and sets it in front of you with a tiny flourish. as second later, a deep red liquid fills your glass and you stare up at him as he grins.

"i figured you were a cab sav kind of girl -- but tell me if i'm wrong, and i'll swap it out for anything else you might like."

you shake your head, laughing as you tug the wine glass closer, "nope. you're spot on."

apartment neighbor!vi who shows up hammered, with no preamble, banging down your door a on friday night (though it really is late enough to be called saturday morning) -- you answer with a frying pan clutched in one hand, a hissing sigh whistling through you the second you see who's on the other side. the pan drops and you're about to be angry, but your eyes catch on the fresh bruises blooming across the high of her cheeks, a bump the side of a golf ball swelling up above her right eye.

"o-oh my god, vi! what happened?!" you jump back as she nearly collapses into your doorway, barely catching herself against your shoe-rack.

"jus... missed you, sugar! can't a girl... miss... someone she likes?" she slurs, shaking her head as she pushes herself up; you blink rapidly at her, your chest a tight whirlwind of questions and concerns. it's all eclipsed, however, by alarm, as she lurches into your apartment and nearly smashes into your hallway wall, looping an arm around your shoulder -- you stumble beneath her weight, struggling to keep her upright.

"vi? vi -- you're drunk --"

"nah this ain't nothin' -- just wanted a few after -- after getting beat up, ain't that normal? damn -- got so fucked in the ring -- that match was fixed -- shoulda known smeech couldn't be trusted -- that slimy, money-hungry bastard --"

you somehow manage to half-drag vi into your living room and dump her on the couch, fluttering around for a large glass of water and a first aid kit.

"what -- what're you saying?" you ask, even as you force her to take a large gulp of water (she makes a face as if it's vodka before downing the rest in a few long gulps -- a few beads of water trickle passed her chin and into the collar of her stained tanktop). but in between the fragments and incoherent mumbles, a slow realization starts to coalesce inside you as you inch closer to her and convince her to sit still.

"vi...?"

"mm." she hiccups, flinching slightly as you dab at a cut on her cheek with an antibacterial wipe.

"are you... in some sort of... fight club, or something?"

vi makes a grumbling noise, her eyes fluttering closed; she sways a little as you continue to gently clean out her wounds. her breath carries the sharp, turpenic smell of cheap alcohol as she lets out a long sigh.

"somethin' like that... kinda like a boxing ring -- i'm pretty damn good at it, most nights," she adds, hissing again even as you jerk back, pursing your lips. she crinkles her nose before wiping a hand across her mouth, staring blankly down at the fresh blood smeared onto her skin.

"and... i'm gonna go out on a limb and guess that this boxing ring thing... isn't legal, right?"

vi tries her best at one of her usual, charming, lopsided grins, but it just ends up looking something like a grimace instead.

"legal's not where the money is, sweetness."

you lean forward with a fresh sanitary wipe and motion for her to hold still again. she does, offering you her other cheek, her eyes now startlingly clear as they flicker over the planes of your face. you wonder how drunk she really is, or if she's just gotten terribly good at hiding it.

"but... i thought that you guys were in a rent-controlled unit? what'dyou need all this money for?"

vi scoffs, her eyes lowering.

"pow's university tuition isn't gonna pay for itself."

her voice is soft, low, her words steady. you pause, frowning slightly at her as she sighs and leans back to cast you a sad little grin.

"ah... now that i've told you, 'fraid i'm gonna have to killa ya," she winks. you don't smile, only turning to discard the dirty wipe for another fresh one.

"i thought the bar --"

"it doesn't make enough -- and powder -- she --" vi sucks in a long breath, her eyes fluttering closed. when she opens them again, it's the eyes you remember, the eyes you'd spent so many afternoons and evenings staring into -- there's light and laughter, a fire that can't be extinguished, a light that can't be dimmed, a hard-lined conviction that makes them shine even on the darkest of moonless nights.

"she deserves every opportunity. that girl --" vi lets out a helpless little scoff, "she's gonna change the world one day, i just know it. if we can only --" she makes an abortive gesture with her hand.

you nod, reaching out to wipe away a small smudge of eyeliner beneath her eye. she stills beneath your touch, the cool of your skin against her burning cheek makes her shiver.

a thin tendril of tired, incredulous laughter slithers up your chest; vi's eyebrows kick up as you let out a giggle -- the only warning she gets -- before you're toppling into a fit of truly stomach-clenching laughter, leaning back into your sofa cushions, clutching your belly.

"a-are you alright?" vi asks, blinking at you with mild alarm as you shake your head, flapping your hands at her, unable to form any kind of coherent thought. you wipe at the tears forming at the corner of your eyes, and somewhere between one breath and the next, your laughs turn into frustrated sobs, and you shove vi reproachfully as she stares at you, totally nonplussed by this strange turn of events.

"y-you're such an idiot!" you say between heaving breaths, rubbing at your eyes. you feel lightheaded; the clock on the microwave blinks a bleary 4:42AM at the pair of you.

vi stares, completely nonplussed as you sniffled and reach over to snag a few tissues, daubing at your eyes.

"there're so many things you can do to get money -- you don't have to --" you gesture at her, "get yourself killed in an illegal fighting ring -- and you don't --" you jab a single finger into her chest, hard enough for her to flinch back, "have to try to do it alone."

she blinks, once, twice --

"uh..."

you sigh, rolling your eyes, "god, you're so stupid -- for someone with a genius sister --"

vi makes a slightly affronted noise, "i got good grades in school!"

you tear open a packet of neosporin with perhaps more savagery than necessary, nearly dropping it. you glare at the tiny packet before squeezing a large dollop onto your finger and motioning for vi to lean in. she eyes you for a solid three seconds before slowly leaning forward.

you lave the gel onto the cut on her cheek before peeling open a bandaid to cover it up.

"there. that's waterproof, so it won't come off when you take a shower."

"when i take a shower?" vi asks, her head cocking to one side.

you cast her a sharp look, "you're so gross right now, of course you've gotta shower."

vi hiccups into her fist before shooting you a sheepish grin.

"i could just shower at home."

you narrow your eyes, "it's 5am -- and i'm pretty sure powder's got a massive midterm tomorrow. you're staying here tonight."

"ah. yes. of... course," vi says, biting back an amused chuckle before looking around at the couch beneath her.

"well, i've always liked this couch."

you close the first-aid kit with a sharp snap.

"if you shower within the next --" you glance back at the clock on the microwave, "10 minutes or so, you can sleep in the bedroom. but if i'm asleep when you're done then you're gonna have to sleep out here -- i don't like being woken up." you try to sound stern, though it might have just come out sounding petulant.

vi grins, the expression so familiar to you it singes a line of heat down the center of your spine.

"oop -- guess i'd better shower quick then!" she pushes off the sofa and jogs for the bathroom, swiveling around by the door to give you a soft smile and a -- "hey... thanks."

you roll your eyes at her and flap your hand, "go. shower!"

you slip into bed, listening to the shower water run, a twist of something collecting in your gut as you hear the sounds of the water turn off and the unmistakable noises of vi toweling off. you burrow further into your blankets as her footsteps thump through the apartment, the slight creak of your bedroom door swinging open as she slips in, the shape of her limned in moonlight as she slowly makes her way to the other side of the bed.

"hey sugar... you still awake?"

you crinkle your nose, and for a second, consider feigning sleep. but the next second, she's slipping into the blankets next to you, her skin warm to the touch as she shuffles closer.

"yeah," you answer, a second later.

she shuffles just a bit closer; you flip around to face her, gasping as you realize how close she is -- your noses almost touching. her eyes widen as they meet yours, and you could swear that even in the pre-dawn dark, you can see her cheeks rioting with color.

she clears her throat but doesn't make to pull away.

"y'know, usually when i get invited into someone's bed... it's a lot sexier than this."

you puff out a breathy laugh, "yeah? i'm sure. why don't you tell me about it tomorrow, when we're compiling all the scholarships that we're gonna help powder apply to?"

vi falls quiet, her gaze going startlingly liquid, and for a second, you wonder if she's going to cry too. but then, she's leaning in, pressing her forehead to yours --

"god... sweets... what the fuck did i do to deserve you?"

you snuggle in closer, your heartbeat a livewire thrum at the back of your throat.

"nothing... you were just... you."

vi lets out a shaky breath, her eyes falling shut.

"shit, sugar... what the hell, man... it wasn't supposed to be like this."

you laugh as she sniffles, tugging you closer, her palm warm along your waist, her fingers pressing into your skin.

"yeah? did you have it all planned out? help the new girl move in? watch movies and make food with her on the weekends till she falls in love with you?"

vi's breath hitches. you bite your tongue.

still, she doesn't refute you. finally, she manages --

"i just... never thought it'd... get this bad..."

you sigh, leaning in to press a soft kiss to her forehead.

"y'know, for a smart girl, you're really dumb sometimes."

vi pulls back, sighing, "yeah... i -- i know. and i know that powder and vander probably know too -- they just -- they just... knew me too well to try and --"

"force it out of you?" you supply. vi nods, her hair tickling your skin as she burrow in against you, her body curling in till she's in a fetal position, her face pressed into your chest, her breath fanning hot against your collarbones.

"well, lucky for me --" you say, reaching up to run a hand through her hair, caressing at the still-damp ends, "i didn't have to -- you came knocking all on your own."

vi's quiet for another few beats before --

"i wasn't lying y'know... i really did... miss you." her voice catches, the words cracking over one another like river stones.

you graze your lips along her hairline, nodding, "yeah, i know... i missed you too, vi."

she wraps her arms around you and pulls you in, pressing you to her so completely your chest almost starts to sting with the pressure.

a few minutes later, she relents, releasing you just enough for you to suck in a long, steadying breath.

"did you really mean it? that thing about... the scholarships for powder?"

you nod, "course i did. and we can look up loans too! i had to take one out when i went to college too, so i'm pretty familiar with them. it's alright -- we'll figure it out -- together."

vi nods, chuckling softly against you.

"mm... before all that though..." she tugs back just far enough to look at you, her voice husky as she leans in to brush her nose to yours --

"d'you think... you might allow me the honor of making you breakfast?"