applejusue

[applejusue]

caitlyn kiramman ─── chekhov's gun

PROLOGUE: A Night at the Opera

Caitlyn is a ghost, a shadow on the wall that couldn't be grasped. A private operative, loyal only to the one who pays the most. She's ruthless, cold, and she doesn't ask questions. You're a rich girl, bathed in soft fur and silver, and someone wants you dead.

◟`# cw: 18+ MDNI assassin!caitlyn, violence, blood, weapons, murder, smoking, death, cursing, sexual themes, vision impairment, slow-burn, angst, pain, stalking, photography, blackmail.

𓏲 ๋ taglist: @zzelysian, @azxteria, @sevikas-whore, @madalinee, @anexcellentshot, @elliesfreckle, @monki-nat, @krilara

index. . .

INT. CARTIER MANOR, 1929.

"It's her ninth birthday, you promised.."

The sound of your parent's voice came muffled behind the door, your fingers twiddling the hem of your skirt. You could just about get a glimpse of them between the slim crack, your father giving the pointed finger that typically came when he was angry. Little you sat on the second step of the staircase, hands folded politely. In your nicest dress with two pink ribbons in your hair, you felt like a grown-up. You were ready to go see your very first play, clutching a small purse with your glossy black shoes tapping quietly. It had taken a lot of pleading with your father, who was always too busy to bring you. Your heart raced as the door to his study opened, but it was your mother who exited with a small envelope.

"What's that?" Your voice came soft, approaching her as she pulls on a beautiful fur coat. Your mother always had the best fashions, lovely gowns and coats that she promised you'd get to wear when you were bigger. She gazed down at you whilst adjusting her diamond crested earrings, crouching with a smile that looked strange.

"It's our tickets my darling, for the opera.." Her voice came sweet, and you continued to stare down at her as she pulled your small grey coat around your shoulders, doing up each slanted button. Her touch was loving as she adjusted your collar, making sure you were tucked up well for the cold evening ahead.

"I thought father was taking me.." Your voice was quiet, glancing toward the closed study door as your mother trifled with the bottom of your frock, making sure you looked pretty. While your mother was still knelt in front, you caught her gaze. Her eyes were slightly misted, though her smile never dwindled as she rubbed your arm.

"I know, but he has.. business to attend to. The two of us are going to enjoy ourselves instead.." Your mother stood back up, not leaving much time for protest as you took her gloved hand. Her heels clinked against the stairs as you headed outside, the brisk air biting at your cheeks. You cuddled into her side while she waved at a small black car, ushering you in quick just as the rain began to fall. You watched as the droplets raced down the window, the city of London loud and hectic at this time of night. Your mother sat silent, the lights of the street streaming across her face as she stared at the road ahead, toying with the fingers of her mitten.

EXT. THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE.

You gawked wide eyed as the smoked car chortled up to the theatre, the pearlescent stone glowing in the night. The pillars towered over you, head tilted so far back you felt dizzy as your mother passed the driver two silver shillings. She giggled breathily at your bewilderment, tugging you along towards the entrance of the opera house. You were beaming, heart racing as pretty women strolled past with big hair and and earrings that sparkled, cigarettes dangling from their red lips.

You entered beneath your mother's arm, greeted immediately by a man in a dark suit, a neat bowtie strapped to his collar. He bowed politely, handing you and your mother a small pamphlet and proceeding to welcome the other guests. There were champagne glasses clinking in the forum as your mother ushered you toward the stairs, your eyes too busy trying to sound out the word on the page. You tugged at your mother's sleeve as you climbed the steps, looking up at her expectantly. She paused, gently leaning down to run her finger under the line so that she could explain it to you.

"It says 'Pagliacci', darling, it's the play that we're going to see.." Her voice came in a hushed whisper as she guided you further up the stairs and towards the gallery. Loud chatter filled the theatre, laughter as patrons collected lorgnettes from the ticket box. Your mother's heels echoed as the two of you entered the small balcony, and you were quick to bolt towards the edge despite the panicked gasp from behind you. With small hands braced against the railing, you were in awe as you stared down at the vast theatre below. The stage was decorated with beautifully painted backgrounds, instrumentalists preparing in the orchestra pit.

"Come away from there, it's not safe.." Your mother's tone was brisk, a gentle snap out of worry as she pulled you away from the edge of the gallery and instead towards the velvet chairs. It was no surprise that your father had gotten the best seats for his girls, a private booth with a perfect view to the stage below. You were too excited to sit still, wriggling on the cushion as you watched the people below flood into theatre. It wasn't long before the show began, and your heart raced as the lights grew dim.

The heavy curtains drew, the thrum of the instruments filling the space as the conductor began the show. The music was lively, punching through the auditorium. Your eyes were glued to the stage as people fluttered through, giggles spluttering your lips at the brass and amusing Canio, smiling so wide it was painful. Before you knew it you were stood once more, watching from the railing with a beating heart as the show continued. Your mother watched from her seat with a weary smile, dark shadows creeping beneath her eyes.

When the opera grew eerie, a frown dusted your cheeks. He sang about things that you were too young to understand, and you hid beneath your seat as the man on stage smeared his face in white clown paint. You could faintly hear your mother, cursing beneath her breath as she flicked through the show bill. She tried to coax you back out, promising that it wasn't real, that there was nothing to be afraid of but you weren't having it. Curled on the sticky ground you knew that your lovely dress would be ruined, but the theatre suddenly felt too tall, too loud.

Like an air siren the lead's voice grew stronger, louder. The screams of his wife as he punctured her chest in a fit of rage that seemed all the more real to a young mind. Your mother stared in horror, furious that your father had subjected the two of you to such a show without even considering the nature of the opera. She moved from the chair, holding her skirt as she crouched down. Her voice came loud over the instruments, stressed as she begged you to get out from under there, but the shouts that continued to spray the crowd kept you frozen.

Then there was a clink, a sharp hiss.

The ground shook beneath your trembling knees, shoving you forward onto your face. Before you could even crawl to your mother, there was a stinging scream so loud that you couldn't hear anymore. The seat above you caved, planting down to your back. A sharp cry fled your lips as the metal frame dug through your coat, knocking the wind from your lungs. Your head was clanging, everything felt hot. Your eyes burned as an acrid dust punctured the gallery, stinging your cheeks. You couldn't see, try as you might to cry for your mother there wasn't a response, just ringing.

You reached your hand out, just managing to grasp hers. It didn't move, her fingers didn't curl around yours like they always did. Your other hand scratched as your eyes, blistering and dark from the slick powder that tainted the gallery, your white dress now plastered in soot. There was a deep burning in your throat, the air thick and hot as you tried desperately to raise your head. You pried your eyes open, but you still couldn't see a thing. The backdrop was a smear of dark dust and red. Straining forward, you could make out your mother's outline, red and faceless, still.

"Mother.. I can't see.." You wept, tears dribbling down your dirty cheeks as you continued to clutch her drooped hand. Everything around was muffled noise, that sharp ringing still piercing one side of your skull while the other was a dull drone. The chair still dug heavy into your back, and you wondered why your mother hadn't helped you yet. It seemed an eternity until men with tall helmets came, briskly pulling you from the debris with swallowed shouts. One lifted you gently, swaddling your crumpled form in a blanket. You tried to peer over his shoulder as he carried you from the gallery, to see if your mother would follow, but she never came.

[applejusue]

Cherry.. BABY..

This is so unbelievably sweet oh my- 🍒🩷

FURTHERMORE: I want to give a shoutout to some of my mutuals and/or favorite creators. Your work is incredible and I hope you create more for everyone to love <3

@thisrots @r3starttt @yameoto @nhmkhnh @streamsofmoon @shouyuus @applejusue @potchi-fics @limerlove @caitlynsrighteye @silknspice

Sometimes I see a lot of work with hundreds of likes and no comments, so I just want to say I LOVE YOUR WORK SO MUCH!!! I see all the hours of planning, writing, and editing you put into your work, and I want to say: thank you so much for it. As a fellow writer (esp of arcane x reader content), I understand how exhausting it can be. Truly, this fandom and platform are a better place with you and your writing.

I LOVE YOU <3333

[applejusue]

caitlyn kiramman

Caitlyn is a ghost, a shadow on the wall that couldn't be grasped. A private operative, loyal only to the one who pays the most. She's ruthless, sly, and she doesn't ask questions. You're a rich girl, bathed in soft fur and silver, and someone wants you dead.

◟`# cw: 18+ MDNI assassin!caitlyn, character-driven intimacy, sexual themes, violence, blood, murder, smoking, cursing, vision impairment, slow-burn, angst, stalking, blackmail.

Index PROLOGUE: A NIGHT AT THE OPERA ACT I: ACT II: ACT III:

𓏲 ๋ taglist: comment to be added . . .

[applejusue]

butch!Logan howlett ─── retail therapy

During a much needed shopping trip, you pass by a nail bar taking walk-ins and get bombarded with a mischievous idea.

𓏲 ๋ idea requested by the lovely @zzelysian

◟`# cw: butch!logan, claws, fluff, cuddling, sleeping, healing, injury mention, scratching, teasing.

xmen masterlist

You'd been kicked out of the school for a few hours to get some 'retail therapy', as Charles had described it and frankly, you weren't complaining. There was an incident a few days ago where you had to revive one of the students who'd gotten himself fatally injured. He'd survived, but it had drained every last drop of your energy. For days you couldn't even lift your finger, let alone get up. It was nice, to be honest, getting to sleep in your bed undisturbed. Well, mostly.

Logan passed most of the time with you, sleeping in your bed with an arm slung around your waist while she snuffed against the side of your neck. It was a very familiar routine for her to come to your room to take a nap after training or to use your shower, because god forbid she do that in her own room. Deep down though, you didn't mind. Her company was nice, plus she always brought food. You were a little higher on your feet now, but the incident had taken more of a toll on you than just physically.

Mentally, you were still shaken. It was intense, cradling a lifeless kid and feeling your own life slip away as you pushed it into his chest instead. When you'd slumped forward into the grass, you knew you'd pushed yourself too far, but seeing that student wake was enough to bring relief, right before it all went dark. It was a few days before you'd woken up, and when you did, shocker, you weren't alone. Logan was against your side, a mess of scruffy hair on your shoulder while her hand rested on your stomach. The memory made you smile.

Still, you needed a breath of fresh air, and for once you'd actually get it. You were dropped off in a shady black car to the nearest mall, armed with a shiny credit card that didn't belong to you. It felt like being a giddy teenager again, getting to spend money that belonged to somebody else. At first you were tentative, simply browsing through the shops and peering into windows. Making the mature decision, you got new vitamins, socks, things for training.

Then, you really thought about it. How long would it be until you got a chance to get out again? Likely, a while. You wanted to make it count. So you bought clothes that actually felt nice, looked nice, that wouldn't be destroyed in combat. On those rare occasions that there would be a gathering, you finally had something other than one staple black dress. You even decided to get a haircut, a nice one that curled around the ends and made your head smell like vanilla. You'd definitely made eye contact with too many sales assistants while trying to get a glimpse of yourself in the shop windows.

With arms stuffed full of bags, you were practically skipping through the mall. You'd gotten perfume, some new makeup, and even some pretty underwear that you'd definitely have to lock away from Logan. She had habits. As you moved further through the small, you noticed a small nail parlor. You glanced down at your hands, definitely a sore sight. Charles hadn't exactly given you a spending limit, so he couldn't be too angry, right?

Five minutes later and you were plonked on a stool, your bags guarding your feet like little soldiers. With some swaying from the nail tech, you decided on some pointed acrylics. While building the base your eyes drifted, settling on a pot of silver chrome. A grin twitched at your lips before you could stop it, and you already knew what kind of design you wanted. When the time came you gestured, she nodded, proceeding to give you razor sharp silver claws. By the time you got collected you were exhausted, but for once it was the good kind.

When you got back to the school, you tried on some of your new outfits. Not even five minutes later you were barging into Logan's room, hands held behind your back. She raised her head, face mussed and suspicious at the shit eating grin on your lips. You gave her a small twirl, showing off the new look to which she blinked groggily. Then her gaze drifted to your hands, her brow furrowed.

"..Hell are they?"

You froze, lip twitching in the effort it took not to burst out giggling. Instead, you mocked one of her poses, baring your sharp claws with as much seriousness as you could muster before you couldn't hold in the laughs. Logan grumbled, looking away with red cheeks.

"Yeah yeah, you think you're real cute.."

You couldn't even try to swallow your amusement, moving towards the bed to clamber up onto her lap. Despite her 'annoyance', her arm came snugly around your waist as she sniffed at your hair. It smelled different, and you knew she could tell. Her rough hand came up to the side of your head, gently running down the soft strands.

"I got it cut, you like it?.." You murmured, arms resting around her shoulders. Logan nodded, face still nosed into your hair as she held you by the hip.

"Suits ya.." She mumbled, trailing her nose down to your shirt where she made her next revelation. She tugged at your collar, finding your new underwear and staring without an inch of shame as she pulled you in closer. You giggled at the sudden movement, hands still braced to her shoulders and nails digging playfully into her back.

"Careful, I can scratch you back now.." You warned teasingly, your nails dragging gently over her skin in a way that made her stutter, hips bucking instinctively as she continued to inhale the smell of your hair.

"M' not complaining.."

[applejusue]

Do you have any plans to make a sequel to Imposter Syndrome? Especially the version where Ellie starts to get better or some scenarios, I'm really attached to her </3

Hii hii baby!

I'm not sure if you seen but I did make an alternate/happy ending to Imposter Syndome where she gets better! If you have and do want extra snippets I'm not completely against it because that series is my baby. Let me know what you'd like to see and I'll definitely put it on the burner once I finish some current projects!

[applejusue]

BUTCH LOGANNN??? U JUST KEEP PRODUCING GOATED WORKS ‼️‼️i love your posts sm just wanted to give you very much deserved appreciation 🙌🙌😋😋❤️‍🩹

AWWW THANK YOU 🩷

Truly I just be posting the things I think about way too often, and butch Logan is one of them.. 😽✋️ God bless @drizzledrawings for upping my xmen obsession

[applejusue]

butch!Logan howlett ─── long days

Your day off didn't exactly go as you planned, but it's never a complete waste when you get to fall asleep with a grumpy woman in your arms.

◟`# cw: butch!logan, blood, claws, nightmares, bickering, fluff, cuddling, sleeping, healing, injury mention.

xmen masterlist

Hair clung to your face as you sleepily staggered into the communal kitchen, rubbing your eyes groggily. Your sleep shirt was halfway down your shoulder, and you were wearing sweatpants that were definitely too big to belong to you. Today was one of those rare and beautiful days where you had nothing to do; no training, no missions, no bullshit to deal with, and you hoped to keep it that way.

You moved toward the cabinets in search of your cereal that always seemed to get pushed around. It looked to be pressed to the far back, and you let out a small huff. What you'd give to be a telekinetic. With a hand braced against the counter you stretched up, jumper drifting lovingly up your waist as you struggled to reach the box. As if it couldn't get worse, you felt a calloused hand press to the side of your hip, and you didn't even need to look over your shoulder.

Logan reached over you with bleary eyes, grabbing onto the cereal box with a soft mutter. She took it with her, pushing straight past like you weren't even standing there to begin with. Her hair was a rat nest, sticking up in every direction whilst she poured your fruit cereal into a bowl. Her lips smacked gently as a deep sigh left her throat, eyes beady like she still wasn't ready to be awake yet. You bit back a small grumble of irritation, leaning back against the counter with folded arms while she stuffed her bowl with milk. She didn't even pass the box back to you, instead just leaving it open on the counter while she shuffled over to the island. It was difficult to be mad when she was in that white wifebeater, firm hairy arms on full display as well as that little dark trail that led into her sweats, but you were dedicated to the cause.

"Morning to you too.."

Your voice fluttered under your breath, rolling your eyes as you headed over to the box yourself. Logan crunched loudly behind you, an unfortunately familiar ambience to your mornings. After grabbing out a small bowl, you tilted the cereal box. Two sad, half fruity cheerios planted against the white porcelain, the rest was just sugar dust. A groan left your lips, head tilting back just enough to be dramatic before you turned around to frown at her. She glanced up at you sleepily, face still mussed as she crunched down on the last of your cereal.

"Seriously?" You sighed, folding your arms and finding your lip twitch in irritation at her nonchalance. Logan shrugged, grumbling under her breath and avoiding your gaze before gingerly pushing her bowl toward you. You roll your eyes, arms falling as you approach the island.

"So generous.."

Logan was all up in your personal space the minute you took a seat on the stool, nose pressing into your bare shoulder like she needed it to get through the day. You reached for her spoon, desperate to get in a few mouthfuls while she was distracted because God knows she'd have it finished within another few bites. She continued to rub her face into your neck, and frankly you just stared ahead like it was nothing new. She was always clingier in the morning, even if she was still an asshole.

"Charles got you training today?" You muttered, voice slightly muffled by the puffs in your mouth. Her dark tangled hair was tickling your bare shoulder, her face still warm from being asleep.

"Mm, twenty minutes.." Her voice came drowsy, no longer too fussed about breakfast. You couldn't blame her, she wasn't exactly a morning person and it certainly didn't help that the two of you were up late the night before. Your free hand drifted to that nest of hair, scratching her roots gently with a small grin.

"Poor kitty.." You giggled, feeling her immediately recoil away from you with a groan. You knew exactly how to get on her nerves, but frankly after devouring half of your cereal she deserved it. Logan grunted under her breath about having to go to training, rubbing at her red cheeks as she stood from the stool. You shook your head in fond amusement, watching with a small grin as she scratched at her hair and padded out of the kitchen. With silence once again, your shoulders drooped in relaxation. Logan may not be a morning person, but you appreciated the quiet, the calm before the chaos of students waking up.

Unfortunately, your peaceful day off didn't last as long as you'd hoped. Being one of the few qualified biokinetic healers in the school, you were certainly in high demand. By the evening you'd already fixed three broken ribs, rearranged internal organs after blood bending mishaps, and sewn enough stitches to make it feel like maybe that medical degree wasn't such a bad career prospect. Sweat beaded against your brow as you pushed open the door to your room, jumpsuit clinging to you in an unpleasant squeeze.

It dropped to your ankles as you headed to the shower, washing out the dirt and blood that covered you from cheek to fingers. There was a dull ache in your lower back, and your eyes burned tiredly as you lingered under the hot stream. If Charles was going to make you work overtime, the least you could do was ramp up the water bill. As you dragged the warm buttery soap along your chest you noticed a small cut from who knows where. You ran your fingers along the slice gently, a breath drifting from between your teeth as the skin tucked over itself.

Healing yourself was tiring, but healing someone else was a different thing entirely. It felt like your body could sink into the floor, melt down the drain and hide in the pipes. You didn't bother washing your hair, instead pulling the tap tight and stepping out of the shower. The mirror was blurred with condensation, steam kissing your damp skin as you grabbed a warm towel. Your eyes stumbled over themselves whilst you applied your creams, each task requiring a mandatory sitting-in-a-towel break between them. Eventually, you were in a tank and some old shorts, crawling beneath your bedsheets like you'd been deprived of them for days. It was cozy, soft.

All you wanted was peace, quiet, sleep. Your body was warm, head floating mindlessly as it was drawn to darkness. Before you could slip away, your door creaked open. You peered over blearily, a huff gushing past your lips at Logan's bulky figure, obscured in shadows. To anyone else it would be terrifying, a large woman panting and scuttering towards your bed with razor sharp claws protruding from your knuckles. You had been victim to those things many a time, always preserving just enough energy to let yourself heal if ever she was accidentally a bit too rough.

"I'm exhausted Lo, either get over here or get out.." Your voice was honest, but soft, knowing Logan only came to your room at this hour for two reasons; she either wants to have sex, or she was having night terrors. Judging by the claws, it was likely the latter.

You knew you should be a little irritated, after all you'd been taking care of other people on the one day that was meant to be for you. When it came to her though, you found that you didn't mind. Logan practically crawled up your bed, sprawling against your chest and sinking against your body. Her right fist shoved into your pillow, fabric spluttering gently at the intrusion. She wasn't trying to be threatening, she was trying to relax, to secure herself to you. Logan looked so different in the shadows, not cocky or reserved but instead just weary. You let your hand move to her hair, running through the strands as your eyes seeped shut.

"Easy kitty.." Your voice was a quiet whisper, just barely kissing her ears. She never flinched when you used it in the bedroom, the privacy letting her feel more at ease. Her heavy form was hot, sweat collecting at her lower back and yet she still insisted on being wrapped around you. Her messy hair tickled your jaw, the two of you exhausted beyond repair. She was still tense, knuckles impaling your poor pillowcase as she breathed you in. You weren't new to it, and so you scratched at her roots, all those little spots that brought out her sighs. It wasn't long before her body slackened, weight smothering you as her claws retracted.

"Bad dream?" You mused quietly, eyes still pressed closed as she cuddled into your breast. If she had said any words you certainly couldn't make them out, her voice just coming a quiet rumble against your chest while her breath tickled your skin. Your fingers drifted aimlessly through those dark strands, feeling smothered in the good way that only she could manage. A gentle growl resonated from her throat, and you chuckled quietly. Logan Howlett does not purr, or so she insists, but beneath those snores and grumbling was that softer sound that conveniently only came when the two of you were cuddling.

Regardless of what she chose to believe for her own ego's sake, it was a sound that had you hard wired to falling asleep. With her heavy weight keeping you buried into your bed, the tiredness really started to rear it's head. It made you feel lazy sometimes how often you had to nap and sleep, but your powers took a toll on your body that could only be replenished with deep rest. The woman on top of you was already drifting off, face tucked away against your chest as her arms surrounded your waist. With her quiet hums warming your breast, you finally let yourself relax.

[applejusue]

ellie williams ─── strawberry milkshake

At thirty-eight years old, Ellie's convinced she's way too old for dating. With nothing but a construction job and a crumbling libido to her name, she somehow gets strung into a blind date.

◟`# cw: tooth rot fluff, awkwardness, older!ellie, singlemom!reader, first date, social anxiety.

the last of us masterlist . . .

Jesus Christ.

Ellie had said it four times since she'd left the house this morning. She'd said it when she woke up, when it really hit that she was going on a date. She'd said it looking in the mirror before leaving the house, with her scruffy hair and overworn jacket that didn't exactly scream 'put together'. She'd said it along with a string of other choice words when her damn car didn't start, knowing she'd be late. And now, Ellie grumbled it beneath her breath as she trudged up the slopey road to the old diner, car keys clutched tightly in her fist.

Along the way she tried to smooth back her hair, like a calloused palm could somehow make it look presentable. The wisps of cold air tickled her cheek, snowflakes staining the collar of her old beater. God, she felt so out of her depth. Warm light flooded from the windows of the diner, a faint buzz of the jukebox creeping out. It was pretty empty tonight, with a few couples and friends hanging by the booths. Then she spotted someone else inside, her date.

You, like her, were in your late thirties, with soft curls and red lips that made her mouth dry. She'd figured you were from around here, a pretty face wearing a red flannel tied to the front and hoop earrings that twinkled under the lights of the diner. Ellie watched from outside for a moment, watching you stir your milkshake with a lowered head, like you were trying to sink into the cream and away from your embarrassment.

Ellie quickly ploughed up the icy staircase, heart hammering tight. She pushed open the door a little harder than she'd intended, her cheeks turning hot as a few glances turned her way. She rubbed a palm along the side of her face as she scuffled towards your table, heavy boots tracking along the floor. Too damn old for this. With her head lowered and hands stuffed into her pocket, she was having trouble deciding if it was bad manners to just sit herself down.

Caught in her indecision, she ended up just standing there like an idiot for a good minute before clearing her throat. You glanced her way, dark eyes lighting up in warm relief. Ellie was sunk by your smile, the way you gestured for her to take a seat with a nervous giggle. She all but fumbled into the booth with all the grace of a bull, still rubbing the back of her neck.

"It's Ellie, right? For a minute there 'thought maybe you weren't comin'.."

That sticky sweet laugh damn near made her melt on the spot. You were prettier up close, with dark lashes and eyes that crinkled at the corners whenever you smiled. Ellie hadn't even realised she didn't answer until you cocked a brow, still stirring the remnants of your milkshake. She bit down on her tongue, forcing a nod as she stared down at the napkins on the table.

"Yeah, sorry about that darlin', honest. Car got jammed in the snow when I tried to leave, near ended up hitching to this diner.."

Her voice came gruff, and the sound of it made her cringe inward. Her cheeks tinged red, coat feeling too heavy on her shoulders, too worn. Everything felt too rough, and she wasn't so sure how to fix it. You'd put so much effort in with that little outfit and the makeup, and, god, she was embarrassed. But then you laughed, not like you thought she was a mess, but like you were pleasantly amused. She peeked up from beneath her tufts of hair, seeing that your gaze was resting on her.

"That's so typical.."

You spoke, making an honest effort to keep the conversation afloat. Instead of maybe grasping onto that like any normal person, Ellie sank.

"Yeah.."

A heavy silence hung over the table, and Ellie began to chew on her lip. She'd hoped to be smoother than this, but as she tried to grasp at something to say, nothing came. The only thing that saved her was the waitress approaching with her notepad.

"Evening ladies, ready to order?"

Her prissy voice cut through the silence, and you sighed gently in relief at the brief respite. You took the lead, nodding while having a glance over the menu.

"I'll go with some loaded fries sweetheart, and another shake.."

You spoke, glancing up from your menu to the woman in front of you as she fumbled with her order. A little smile continued to tug at your lips, amazed at how she could make ordering a cheeseburger seem so difficult. It was cute, honestly. While she was distracted, you got a good chance to really look at her.

She seemed a little older than you, with heavy brows that drooped when she spoke. Her scruffy hair was a faded chestnut colour that you could just tell brightens in the summer. She was hunched over in that big coat, rough fingers toying with the diner placemat like she had no idea what else to do with them. You bit down on your lip gently, enamoured by those sun kissed freckles and the way her cheeks were pink.

The waitress scurried off back to the kitchen with your order, and that silence took over. You weren't about to let that sway you, not when you'd got all dolled up to come out tonight. Besides, it wasn't often you got the chance to go on a date with a woman your age. You leaned over the table slightly, just so she didn't feel as far away.

"So, you got any kids? Anythin' I need to know about.."

It was a tease, obviously. Ellie's eyes lifted to yours for a minute before briskly shaking her head. She tried to sit up straighter, clearing her throat so that she could say something.

"Nah, definitely no kids, s'just me.. you?"

"Mm.. for now, got a daughter away at college.."

You spoke it quieter, like you were used to it being a deal breaker. Ellie sat up straighter, not surprised in the slightest that a gentle and damn attractive woman like you was a mother. She actually smiled, chewing on her lip before pushing back.

"Yeah? What's she studying?.."

Ellie murmured, voice soft, like she genuinely cared. You weren't expecting that, and it was your turn to stumble over your words.

"She's up in the city, studies biochem.. god knows where she got the brains for it.."

You chuckled, a fondness in your voice. In your mind, she was still that little girl who wanted nothing more than to win the science fair. Now she had a small apartment, a state scholarship and a boyfriend who was crazy about her.

"That so? I'm sure she got it from her mama.."

Ellie grinned, enamoured by your pink cheeks and how lovingly you spoke about your kid.

"Oh no, hadn't a clue where to start when she needed help with her projects.."

You laughed, shaking your head and stirring the remnants of your melted milkshake. You were quiet for a moment, before something pressed you to be a little more honest.

"Never actually made it out of school myself, got pregnant real young.. and God knows I'm so glad she's out there making something of herself, but I don't even know what to do with myself now that she's away.."

Your smile grew softer, a little somber. Your eyes fluttered up to Ellie, and a wick of anxiety dribbled into your gut from the fact that she was still silent. The words tumbled out, worried that you'd said too much.

"Sorry, I know it's a lot.."

Ellie snapped out of her trance, too busy staring at your pretty cheeks to realize that once again she'd forgotten to answer. She shook her head quickly, leaning forward enough to speak in a more sincere voice.

"No, I like a family woman, real brave.."

You scoffed gently, a smile tugging at your lip as you shrugged.

"Wouldn't call it brave, I was scared shitless all by myself, s'a wonder she turned out so well.."

The words tumbled out with a quiet laugh, and Ellie was already a goner. It was hard for her to concentrate, to act like a normal person when she was sitting in front of a woman, a real woman. The southern drawl, the unbuttoned flannel that held your cleavage, the red lipstick that was staining every cup you put your lips to. If she could be that straw you were stirring, she would.

"That's plenty about me though, what about you darlin'? Any skeletons in there.."

You prodded a manicured finger with a warm chuckle, wanting to know more about this brooding woman that sat across from you.

"Too many.. ran away from home at seventeen, got myself into trouble so I eventually went back. Figured my old man wouldn't even let me in, but he was just glad I was home.."

You sat quietly, attentive with a warm expression on your face. Ellie swallowed.

"I settled down after that, started working in construction with him and getting some cash of my own, now I live just ahead of here.."

Ellie's voice fizzled out, embarrassment creeping over her despite the way you practically beamed. She was so earthly, so quaint and charming with how honest she was. She spoke up again, scratching the back of her neck.

"Sorry, I know it's nothing interesting.."

You grinned, shaking your head and leaning closer.

"I think it's plenty interesting.."

Neither of you had realized just how far you were leaning over the table, arms almost touching. It wasn't until the waitress arrived with your food that you snapped out of it, pulling back to your side with pink cheeks. You dug into your loaded fries after thanking the server, watching with amusement as Ellie tried to tackle her burger neatly. You bit back a giggle as she tried to avoid making a mess of herself.

The night passed easier with both of you calm, giggles and stories that had you gasping. It was the most fun you'd had in a while, even if you could tell that the woman in front of you was still nervous. She'd paid for the whole thing despite your offer to split half, such a gentleman. Your cheeks were warm, a pleasant buzz in your stomach as the two of you left the diner and stepped out into the snow. Ellie shoved her hands back into her pockets, rocking on her heels before glancing up at you.

"I'm sorry tonight was a bit of a mess darlin', haven't done anything like this in a while.."

You had to fight off a smile, watching as the cold air tinted her cheeks and stuck some snowflakes to her hair. You clutched your purse, shaking your head with a warm chuckle as you gazed down at her.

"I had a good time, seriously.. I'd like t' see you again.."

Your voice came soft, and despite the reassurance Ellie was still convinced that she'd muddled this, that you thought she was awkward or at the very least boring. You could see it in her eyes that she didn't believe you, and you laughed. With your hands bracing her shoulder gently, you leaned down to press a sticky kiss to her cheek. When you pulled back, your red lipstick stained the area teasingly. Ellie watched as you walked away, cheeks flushed as a lopsided grin tugged at her lips.

𓏲 ๋ perm list: @zzelysian, @the-sick-habit

[applejusue]

Ladies and gentlemen, I need EVERYONE on this series . . . 📢

── ❝ [FINAL VERDICT] ❞

pairing: fbi detective!ellie williams x fbi psychiatrist!reader x gang leader!abby anderson

synopsis: ah, the beginning — the most boring part of every story. well, not this one. when tragedy strikes the city of seattle, its citizens don't know what to do. do they believe the 'innocent' man who supplies their junkies with their daily dose of special medicine, or the officers who arrested him just to close the case?

content: MDNI 18+ content, sexual themes, murder mystery, fluff, angst, suggestive scenes, swearing, love circle, yearning, jealousy, slow burn, use of y/n, usage of alcohol, violence, mentions of drugs and arms dealing, graphic descriptions of blood and dead bodies (note: this will be updated as i go)

word count: 1.1k

series masterlist | next chapter

PROLOGUE: "𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐝"

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐋𝐃

𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟓, 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟓

───────────────────────────────

𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝚰𝐂𝚰𝐀𝐍 𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝚰𝐍 𝐃𝐎𝐖𝐍𝐓𝐎𝐖𝐍 𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐘

𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐆𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐁𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫

𝐁𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐬, 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫

SEATTLE — The body of Joel Miller, 52, a beloved local musician and single father, was discovered early Thursday morning in an alley behind Murphy's Diner on Capitol Hill, the victim of what police are calling a particularly brutal homicide.

Miller, who performed regularly at downtown venues and was known throughout the community for his acoustic guitar performances, was found by a homeless man around 2:30 a.m. The victim had been stabbed multiple times in what Detective Ray Morrison described as "one of the most calculated and vicious attacks" he had witnessed in his 20-year career.

"This wasn't a robbery gone wrong," Morrison told reporters at a press conference Friday afternoon. "Mr. Miller's wallet, containing over $200 in cash, was left untouched. His guitar was damaged in the attack, but nothing was stolen. This appears to be the work of someone with a very specific intent."

The crime scene, which remained cordoned off for nearly 12 hours as investigators collected evidence, showed signs of what police are calling "ritualistic positioning" of the victim's body. Specific details are being withheld pending the ongoing investigation.

Miller, who had lived in Seattle for over fifteen years, leaves behind his 14-year-old daughter, Ellie Williams. The teenager, who was reportedly at home during the time of the attack, has been placed in the care of social services while family arrangements are finalised.

"Joel was one of the kindest men you could ever meet," said Seth Murphy, owner of Murphy's Diner and a longtime friend of the victim. "He'd come by after his shows sometimes, just to talk. He was so proud of his daughter — everything he did was for her. This is just senseless."

The investigation took a dramatic turn late Friday when police arrested Jerry Anderson, 45, alleged leader of the local gang known as the Wolves of Liberation Front (W.L.F.), in connection with Miller's murder. Anderson was taken into custody at his residence without incident.

While police have not released specific details about what led to Anderson's arrest, sources close to the investigation suggest that Anderson was in the vicinity of the crime scene on the night of the murder. Additionally, investigators point to Miller's recent inquiries about gang activity near local schools — inquiries that may have put him on the W.L.F.'s radar.

"Mr. Miller had contacted our community outreach division several times in recent months, expressing concerns about gang recruitment activities near his daughter's school," said Police Chief Patricia Reeves. "We believe this may have led to threats against him."

Anderson, who has maintained his innocence since his arrest, appeared briefly in court Saturday morning where he was denied bail. His attorney, Marcus Webb, issued a statement calling the charges "baseless" and "a rush to judgment by a department under pressure to solve a high-profile case."

"My client has never met Joel Miller, has no connection to this victim, and categorically denies any involvement in this heinous crime," Webb's statement read. "The real killer is still out there while an innocent man sits in jail."

The W.L.F., which Anderson allegedly took control of after the death of his predecessor three years ago, has been linked to various criminal activities throughout King County, including drug distribution and weapons trafficking. However, the organisation has never before been connected to a murder of this nature.

Anderson's arrest has sent shockwaves through the local gang community. His 15-year-old daughter, Abby Anderson, was seen outside the courthouse Saturday, surrounded by several individuals believed to be W.L.F. associates. When approached by reporters, the teenager declined to comment but appeared visibly distraught.

Community leaders are calling for calm as tensions rise between law enforcement and gang-affiliated residents. Reverend Marcus Johnson of the Downtown Baptist Church, who knew Miller through his volunteer work with local youth, urged the community to "let justice take its course."

"Joel's death has torn a hole in our community," Johnson said. "But we cannot let anger and fear drive us to more violence. We must trust in our justice system to find the truth."

Miller's funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Seaside Memorial Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Seattle Youth Music Program, an organisation Miller supported throughout his life.

The investigation remains ongoing. Police ask that anyone with information about the case contact the Seattle Police Department at (206) 555-0199.

───────────────────────────────

Maria Santos has covered crime and courts for the Seattle Herald since 2005. She can be reached at m.santos@seattleherald.com

───────────────────────────────

𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐆𝐄:

Editorial: "Gang Violence Reaches New Low" - Page A6

Community Response: Local Musicians Plan Memorial Concert - Page B1

Crime Statistics: Violent Crime Up 12% This Quarter - Page A8

taglist: @applejusue @ferxanda @noliaswaves @iadorefineshyt @azxteria @sewithinsouls @jazzyxox @thxtmarvelchick comment to be added!!

a/n: first chapter is here!! i reaallyyy like the newspaper format like the school journalist in me is fangirling in her cage ❤️‍🩹

[applejusue]

abby anderson ─── glitter on the floor

She's the bouncer at your favourite nightclub, and you've never managed to get her to break character. After another night of flirting that you figured would lead you nowhere, you get a hint that maybe she doesn't dislike you as much as you thought.

◟`# cw: bouncer!abby, femme!reader, alcohol, drinking, cursing, sexual language, creep behavior, blood, fluff.

the last of us masterlist . . .

The Fireflies was always your favourite nightclub, with music just loud enough to shake your ribs without driving a drill through your skull the next morning. The place was always dark, with twinkling lights decorating the ceiling that made it feel like you were dancing in a crystal cave. The atmosphere seemed to have that effect on everyone else too, the staff constantly having to split those who get a little too carried away on the dance floor.

The patrons were alright, mainly women your age with sparkling platforms and skirts short enough to make a nun drool. Each night was a statement, a new theme that would follow cocktails and music. Along the walls, people would crawl against each other, hidden in the shadows as they shared cigarettes. In the middle of the dancefloor, it was a sea of hair glitter and sweat. Bodies mashed against each other while drinks spilt between breasts. It was chaos, it was perfect.

It had started innocently enough, you were with a group of friends this time. Your pink lipstick sparkled under the lights, body already hot with sweat as the four of you grooved to the music, giggles sprinkling the air. You fanned your face playfully as one of the girls dragged you in, dancing up close and personal as you both shouted the lyrics. Yeah, you were absolutely pissed, but that never hurt anyone. Eventually you pried yourself from the floor, tottering yourself over to the bar and ordering your fifth sex on the beach.

You'd just about managed to haul yourself upward onto the precariously high stool, your gaze fluttering around the packed club. You were keeping an eye out for your bouncer, Abby. The only reason you knew her name was from the security badge she always had strapped to her arm. You were certain that you got on her every last nerve, and you couldn't blame her. Whenever you got drunk, it was like you couldn't keep yourself away, like you had to annoy a stone-faced security woman.

The tart drink burnt down your throat as you continued to survey the battlefield, and it only took a minute or two to find her. Abby stood out like a sore thumb, thick arms folded as she hovered against the back wall. She'd move occasionally, usually just to adjust her earpiece or break up a fight, but for the most part she just watched. You couldn't fathom how she always kept a straight face while girls shook their asses in the hopes of a slap, while drunk idiots stumbled over themselves on the dance floor.

You grinned, beaming like a giddy kid about to do something that would definitely get them in trouble. The world spun slightly as you pushed away from the bar, heels clinking against the sticky floor as you pushed through barriers of sequins and stilettos. You were too focused on not falling on your ass to realise that Abby's eyes were following you, watching as you waded through the lively crowd. You managed to clamber out the other end, and she barely even blinked as you pranced up to her.

Immediately you wrapped around her side, long nails resting against her bicep as you gave her a quaint cuddle, like you weren't a stranger. Abby didn't move, just continued to survey the dance floor like you weren't clinging onto her arm. She was used to you by now, with your sticky pink lipstick that always ended up staining her shirt collar, the smell of your perfume and those sickeningly sweet drinks that stick to her coat. You were drunkenly babbling something in her ear, but she couldn't hear you over the music.

Abby stood a little straighter, just so that you wouldn't fall while leaning against her shoulder. You'd taken to using her like a big warm post, and begrudgingly, she always let you. She pretended not to notice as you peeked up at her blearily, lips puckered in a small frown that she wasn't listening to what you were saying. Then came the question that you asked without fail every time you found her at the club.

"..Wanna buy me a drink?"

The words would come clumsy, and she'd heard a million variations of the sentence from your glossy lips. You'd have to speak loudly, and like every other time, she gave you the same answer.

"I'm working, princess.."

Her voice was low, gruff over the thrumming music that filtered through the stuffy room. She'd never break face, you knew that by now, but part of you still hoped that maybe just once you'd get more from her than that. You groaned gently against her shoulder, too leathered to even bother hiding your annoyance. While your head was buried, a small, almost invisible smile tugged at her lips that she quickly schooled as you pulled away.

Abby watched with composed amusement as you stumbled away from her, still wobbling on those damn sparkly platforms. How you were still standing was a wonder to her. She winced each time you lost balance, only prayers away from nosediving against the dirty club floor. You'd had a few more drinks than usual this time, and the rejection stung that little bit extra when you couldn't see straight. Your eyes glistened, and in your efforts to get away from the crowd, you bumped into a flat frame.

The man turned with a glare, though the expression dissolved to something even less appealing as he set eyes on you. Despite your murmured apology and attempts to keep pushing away, he somehow felt the need to grab onto your arm. He stumbled slightly, breath stinking of beer as he leaned down to speak against your ear. Over the blaring music you couldn't even make out what he was attempting to say, instead just feeling that uncomfortable heat of someone's breath against the side of your neck.

Hastily you tried to agree with whatever point he was making, probably something to do with the fact that you weren't twirling with him or that you looked 'too pretty to be sad'. Irritation was bubbling up in your gut now as he continued to grip your arm, completely ignoring the way you were trying to writhe away and escape how suffocating the dance floor was. It felt like you would drown amidst the sea of people, nobody paying you two cents despite the man who was trying to press up to your thigh.

You recoiled immediately, tripping over your feet with a scuffle as you plummeted. It was rigid, sticky down there, and you didn't even want to think about what was beneath you. You tried to push yourself up, acrylics scratching across the tiles as your head continued to spin. You could feel the stares, the glint of teeth that were focused on your rid up skirt. Then someone knelt beside you, a firm hand gently grasping your shoulder and hauling you upward.

Abby supported your whole weight with one arm planted steadily around your hip, her free hand dragging that dickhead by the scruff off of the dancefloor. Your knees hurt, and you could feel a dribble of something hot running down your leg. The drunkard got the hint, well aware that putting up a fight with a woman double his width certainly wasn't worth his while. Abby mumbled something into her earpiece as she guided you away from the bar, settling you down on a sofa in a quieter room near the back.

Tears continued to glisten in your eyes, now spluttering down your cheeks along with the mascara you'd applied twice over. Abby gazed down at you, not exactly equipped to handle situations like this. She hovered, and then she let her hand settle on your head, her coarse palm smoothing down your mussed up hair before she moved to crouch by your knee.

"Now now, don't ruin all that pretty makeup with tears.."

It was the first time you'd really gotten to hear her voice, to feel her touch you back, and despite your pouted lower lip it made your heart flutter. You were drunk and humiliated and the last thing you'd wanted was for her to see you fall on your face. Abby watched as you avoided her gaze, your usual bubbling confidence smothered. She stood back up, wiping a stray tear with her thumb. A sigh left her lips, like she already knew she would regret this.

She huffed gently as she fished some antibacterial wipes from her security bag. Her words were more of a reflex than anything, as your face was already covered in dark mascara streaks and smudged lipstick. You winced as she pressed the wipe to the small cut on your knee, her free hand holding the back of your calf to keep you still.

You continued to stare down at her with blown out, watery eyes. She was completely focused, cleaning off the dirt and blood that clung to your leg. Abby then grabbed a small plaster, ripping the wrapper with her teeth before bringing it to your leg. For such a strong woman she placed the bandaid so gently across your knee, pressing it in with her finger to make sure it stuck.

"C'mon princess, let's get you that drink.."

[applejusue]

ellie williams ─── little misfortunes

𓆩♱𓆪 epilogue

A series of killings in a small town spread quickly, pitchforks sharpened, and curfews imposed. Ellie led a quiet life, well aware of the town's suspicions of her. After discovering a black shadow with glistening fangs sunk into a bloody gent outside a tavern, she finds herself grappling with accusations. What will happen when Ellie, bound to an altar and dressed in white, becomes the wife of the very woman who committed the massacre?

◟`# cw: blood, dracula, violence, murder, rituals, cult activity, animal feeding, sexual themes, feeding, arranged marriage, grief, slow-burn, love.

taglst '# @eleanorsghost, @imdrowningindispair, @mo0nnstarz, @the-sick-habit, @azxteria, @peachybaby-blr, @zzelysian

index. . .

The flames from the village lit up the sky like a brass bunsen burner, too distant to be felt but near enough to stir your unease. The townsfolk danced through the square, weaving through joint arms like little mice as they celebrated another year of plentiful summer, one untainted by blood. The soft orange twinkled against your eyes as you stood by the window, where you'd been for some time now.

It was the very first time you'd spent this night in the castle, in the quiet without the boisterousness of a tavern, without the struggle of whatever mortal man fell to your anger. You were entranced, trapped in fear that if you took your eyes away, it would all come for you once again. Perhaps it was that little part of yourself that still felt to blame for what had happened all those years ago, that wanted to prove it could be prevented.

Everything felt easier in the light of morning, you'd laid fresh flowers for your departed, you'd said the millionth apology. The difference was there was something else that now shared this day, something sweet that fate had gifted you. Ellie had insisted on no fuss for your anniversary together, but it couldn't be helped. It all felt lighter when you saw that smile, those lips devouring the dark chocolate you'd managed to get from a far-off confectionery. The thought warmed you as you stood by the window, swaddled in your head.

You hadn't even noticed the rustling of the bed sheets, the gentle creak in the floorboards. Ellie's arms slung around your waist from behind, her groggy face pressing against your shoulder. Her mousy hair stuck up at all angles, your wife draped in nothing but your oversized cotton shirt. You hadn't even realised how much tension you were carrying until it all buckled beneath her touch. She nosed at the skin behind your ear gently, her voice tired but nowhere close to unkind.

"You said you'd come to bed.."

Biting down a sigh, your eyes continued to trace the fires that roared from the village, like it could follow your gaze. Ellie glanced up at you through heavy lids, watching the warm embers twinkle in your eyes. She'd known this day would come, that it would be difficult for you. You'd been trying to hide it beneath gifts and charming smiles that the twitch in your fingers betrayed. She squeezed you tighter, your back against her chest.

"If they have any sort of sense, they wouldn't dare.."

She whispered, smoothing down the dark strands of hair by the left side of your head, joining your stares at the town below. Her heart ached gently at feeling you so stiff, like a dog afraid of fireworks. The people lining the streets celebrated their year of peace, though it scarcely felt earned. She watched your schooled face, those haunted eyes that couldn't bear the thought of being alone again. You turned your head to gaze down at her, a gentle smile playing on your lips.

"Your kind aren't known for having sense, mouse.."

You muttered back, letting her guide your body away from the mouth of the window. Ellie huffed quietly, dragging you in by the hips, completely unwavered that you were much taller. She was all things amusing, so pretty yet still capable of bossing you around like usual. You leaned down to kiss her cheek, your cold lips making her scrunch her nose playfully. Your nails traced along the side of her throat absentmindedly, still swollen from your feeding. Your wife was more than capable of handling you.

Ellie pried your cold hand from her neck, bringing it to her lips. She grazed a gentle kiss over your silver ring, staring down at it with a certain fondness. It was your anniversary after all. She smiled through tired eyes, wrapping her arms around your neck so she could drag you in closer. You let her, leaning down to your wife and snuggling your face into her warm shoulder. Your heart still clenched with unease, but it was easily smothered by her love.

"It's just a night, like any other.."

Ellie whispered, tucking a dark strand of hair behind your ear. She knew you wouldn't admit aloud how worried you are, too stubborn to confess that you were so bothered by the flames streaming from the town below. She knows, and she wanted to soothe you as much as she could. You shook your head, pulling back just enough to gaze down at her face.

"Thats not true.."

You muttered softly, a smile tracing your cheek and for a moment your wife faltered. Ellie's lower lip pursed, her head tilting.

"No?.."

She whispered, arms still around your neck as she stared up at you. Your smile grew, leaning down to press your forehead against hers.

"On this night you were given to me, on this night I found a part of me I thought I'd lost.."

Your words were a ghost against her lips, and Ellie's cheeks tinged rosy. Her fingers wove their way through your hair as she dragged you in. Your mouth found hers in the darkness, moving slow. A breath passed, her nails scratching your scalp as you held her by the hip. You pulled her closer, licking a playful stripe across her chin. Ellie rolled her eyes with a gentle huff, her fondness for you oozing like melted honey.

She moved back towards the bed, dragging you along with her. You all but fell on top of her, chuckling gently as you braced yourself on the mattress. Her arms wrapped around your waist, keeping you there. You pressed some cold chaste kisses along her throat, feeling her shiver as your hair tickled her jawline.

"You don't regret it, do you?"

"The only thing I regret was not finding you sooner.."

Your voice was a quiet whisper against her ear, hiding behind kisses in a poor attempt at concealing how vulnerable you felt. Ellie reached to grab your face, guiding it so that you were looking down at her. Pink cheeks, blown eyes and hair fanned like the loveliest thing you'd ever laid eyes on. Your wife only smiled, shaking her head as her arms slinked around your neck.

[applejusue]

so we're all collectively traumatised by that post <3

does not matter if they’re pixels or not, you’re writing smut of ellie x joel and tommy? you’re fucking weird and a pervert in a bad, creepy way, goodbye

[applejusue]

ellie williams ─── little misfortunes

𓆩♱𓆪 𝔠𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔯 Ⅶ ─── iphis and ianthe

A series of killings in a small town spread quickly, pitchforks sharpened, and curfews imposed. Ellie led a quiet life, well aware of the town's suspicions of her. After discovering a black shadow with glistening fangs sunk into a bloody gent outside a tavern, she finds herself grappling with accusations. What will happen when Ellie, bound to an altar and dressed in white, becomes the wife of the very woman who committed the massacre?

◟`# cw: blood, dracula, violence, murder, rituals, cult activity, animal feeding, sexual themes, feeding, arranged marriage, grief, slow-burn, love.

♱ this chapter will contain sex, along with blood, be safe.

taglst '# @eleanorsghost, @imdrowningindispair, @mo0nnstarz, @the-sick-habit, @azteriarizz, @peachybaby-blr

index | epilogue . . .

A cold shiver ghosted over your body, eyes blinking blearily. There was no warmth, just weight. Your clothes felt heavy, dragging you downward along with your limbs. Your skin glistened blue, soft pulses of light reflecting along the walls of the bedroom. The furniture swirled gently, papers dusted in the air like lilies. Disorientated, cold, wet. You started to scramble, like a kitten being shoved into a sink. As you clambered off of the bed the water soaked to your skin, waving just above your calves.

Head pounding, heavy fabrics dragging you deeper, you shed each layer in an effort to push closer to the door. It seemed miles away, every step forward sending you two steps back. Trudging through the stubborn waters you managed to get to the exit, hauling open the old wood. Your mouth was dry, the bubbling water sucking in the oxygen. The waves crashed through to the hallway, long dark suds coating the carpet.

You stumbled, trying to avoid the heavy furnishings that were being carried by the harsh current. Paintings toppled from the walls, drawers ripped from hinges and drifting by. It was as though they were fleeing, pushing through open windows and doors, flustering down the stairs as water continued to build higher. You grasped desperately for papers, pictures, anything you could keep of your life that was boiling over through every exit.

With arms full of ornaments and mementos, every movement became more difficult. The water was up to your breast, lapping fiercely at your collar, cold tingles nipping flesh. Your lungs felt tighter, jostled forward and back with each slapping wave. The hallway seemed to have no end, no exit. Hot tears speckled your lidded eyes, heavy wardrobes falling flat with gushes of water. Your shoulders were tired, sinking further. That's when you saw her.

Ellie thrashed above the water, hands desperately clawing above as the violent current continued to shove her body lower to the carpet. Her white nightgown puffed at all slides, freckled cheeks slick with cold sea froth, throat spluttering. Everything fell from your arms, you let it escape as you tried to get to her. Her pale skin shimmered beneath the stream, limbs growing heavy as she sank deeper. The waves pushed you further back, piling up to your jaw. The salted stench blushed at your teeth, engulfing your shouts.

The bed sheets had swallowed you whole, smothered and tangled as the disjointed sounds spluttered from your cracked lips. You were suffocating, drowning. Like a taut coil you sprung upward, shallow breaths flooding your swollen throat. Sweat pooled down your forehead, claws having half torn the blanket. Everything was still, furniture settled where it should be, dry.

Ellie was sat on the floor, having been folding laundry into little piles. Your outburst had certainly caught her attention, the muffled cries and jolt of your torso. She gazed over you worriedly, gently placing the dress she was holding aside. Ellie pushed from the floor, patting down her skirt and approaching the bedside. You panted heavily, half naked and shivering like a wet cat. She sat by you, her fingers gently reaching for your puffed cheek.

"..Are you alright?.."

Her voice came soft, knuckles brushing as she gazed up at your sleep mussed face. You were still short of breath, still cold, so you pushed into the warmth of her arms. Ellie could feel your tears splintering her shoulder, your fingers faintly scratching at the back of her blouse. You were just relieved that she was here, that she was dry, that she was alive. You nodded against her shoulder, throat too clammed to speak.

Ellie bit back a frown, cradling you closer to her breast and dragging her fingernails through your sweaty scalp. Your sleep had been plagued these last few days, causing you to be even more tired and irritated than before. She didn't stray far from the bedroom, not while knowing you could wake up tender. Things were falling apart with winter coming, and Ellie wasn't sure how to help.

She could see the way you'd been staring, lurking over her shoulder. She'd grown so fond of you, it'd become more difficult to deny. You were so loving in your own twisted way, so patient and charming. There was a distance between you now, your smile had grown rare. She liked when she could draw it from you, like a pearl smothered in coal.

She knew it was difficult for you to see a way forward, a feeling she imagined took over each winter. Cold, tired, hungry. It all seemed that much more intense with the absence of summer. More time awake, less people to feed from. Hell, they couldn't even feed themselves with dying crops. Animals were locked up tighter, food scarce.

You were afraid of how Ellie must see you now, mindless, unraveled. The emptiness grew heavier, something deep in your chest that couldn't be satiated. It was irritating, painful. Part of you was fearful that once it got to a peak, she wouldn't be safe around you. Often you now slept alone in a separate room because her smell was too close. Ellie could feel you pulling away, and she knew what was to come wouldn't be pleasant.

𓏲 ๋♱⁴⁴⁴

The winter brought on many problems, but Ellie still kept you warm. The two of you were in the living room, wood burning amidst the hearth and covering the space in a soft orange glow.

"I have love in me the likes of which you can scarcely imagine and rage the likes of which you would not believe.."

Ellie was sat on the small stool by your armchair, her voice coating the quiet air as she read from her novel. A small bowl of soup sat in her lap, and occasionally she brought a spoonful to your own lips. You weren't the slightest bit interested in the broth, but your mouth opened each time, the silver spoon filling your cheek. The embers crackled by the metal guard, twinkling molten.

"If I cannot satisfy one, I will indulge the other.."

Your wife's brow was always furrowed as she read, focused. Rarely did a word enter your head, too preoccupied staring at the shape of each vowel on her blushed lips. Your eyes were heavy lidded, weak and sluggish as you gazed down at her, beauty not even coming close to the word. Ellie could feel the weight of your stare, glancing up at you. A small pink tinge stained her freckled cheek, shyness.

"What? You don't like it.."

She teased, folding the page and closing it over in her lap. You shook your head gently, leaning down closer with a lilt to your upper lip. Ellie had a habit of wanting 'modern' books, despite the countless novels you had in the home. It made them worth buying to see her smile, to see that small widen in her eyes when she read something naughty.

"Darling, you could be reading a pamphlet on grain, I'd still like it.."

Your voice came a whisper, ghosting against the shell of her ear. You tucked a few strands of her mousy hair back, breathing in her smell.

"You flatter me.."

Ellie mutters, a soft smile gracing her cheek as your breath tickled her neck. She shuddered, batting you away with her hand. You let out a small huff, allowing yourself to sink back into the warm armchair, tender eyes still focused on her. It wasn't the first time you'd gotten too close to her lately, in fact, it was becoming more and more common.

Only yesterday, Ellie had returned to the bedroom early to change after working in the gardens all morning. Sweat was stuck to her skin, dirt plastered across her hands and cheeks. She'd picked strawberries, a whole basket full because she knew you liked them with tea. After hiking up the staircase and moving into the chamber, she was greeted by nobody other than the one she'd been thinking about.

You were stood by her clothing drawer, utterly red handed with her shirt pressed to your nose. Your hands were fisting the fabric tight, and Ellie near dropped the basket, cheeks as flushed as yours when you finally noticed your wife in the doorway. Ellie watched as you stuffed the shirt back in, blustering excuses while she scolded you. In the end your head was lowered bashfully.

"You picked those for me?.."

Ellie refused to fall victim to your polished charms, rolling her eyes with an exasperated huff. She knew full well that you were trying to change the subject, like she hadn't caught you raiding her closet fabrics. Instead she let the basket rest against her hip, brow raised, unimpressed.

𓏲 ๋♱⁴⁴⁴

The twilight wore heavy on her as she traced up the long corridor. Ellie's thoughts were still muddled, exhaustion seeping into cold bones. The candle flickered against her knuckles as she held it forward, searching for the spare room that you'd chosen to inhabit for the past few nights. The shadows seemed deeper without you close, the never ending walls taunting.

Ellie passed a door, noticing a faint glimmer of light peaking out from the crack. She halted, gently pressing open the wood. Her eyes softened as she found you, moonlight caressing your sleeping form. The bed you were laying against wasn't even made, simply an empty mattress draped in an old dusted sheet. The same could be said for the rest of the furniture.

She approached quietly, bare feet sinking against the worn carpet. It was amusing, on her very first night she had wished you would sleep in a separate room to her. Now, Ellie hated that you weren't in her bed. She set the candle against the nightstand, but before she could join you in this drafted room, she noticed something.

Cradled in your arms was something soft, ivory, her nightgown. It was pressed to your face, gently, lovingly. It wasn't the tight fist she'd come to expect from you. Your sleeping face was peaceful, and she wished that it was how you looked awake. Unbothered, unconsumed by hunger, strands of dark hair curling around your jaw.

Ellie sat by you quietly, the mattress dipping with a soft creak. Her heart felt heavy, aching gently in her chest. You'd been holding back all this time, patient and careful. She could see that you were starving, that you were weak. With winter coming, she couldn't let this continue or neither of you would survive. Ellie let herself lay down beside you, prying the gown from your cold hands and slinking herself there instead.

Her eyes stayed heavy on your parted lips, the faint shimmer of your teeth. There was a strain that had grown between you, and Ellie found herself hotter in her skin. It was a fixation of sorts, something that had once been morbid curiosity that now flourished deeper. Her gaze would follow yours as you sank your teeth into a strawberry, red juices dribbling down your chin in a way that made her wince. Ellie shuddered, burrowing her face away against the old dusty pillow.

You never expected it from her, but your wife knew you wanted it. She couldn't blame you, it must be unbearable to be so hungry and have food taunting you, sharing your bed. Her face peeked up, lidded eyes roaming your tired face. Ellie cautiously raised her hand, twitching fingers moving toward the curve of your upper lip. It was a flat line, a gentle scar dragged through one side. She never asked.

Her thumb pressed carefully along your mouth, feeling the ghost of your breath against her. Ellie swallowed, lungs tight as she pried further. She let her finger push up your top lip, exposing your toothy gums. Her eyes locked to your canines, sharp, protruding. The area around them was swollen, painful, and another stroke of guilt pulsed around her neck. Lightly, she let her thumb brush against the tip of your fang, flinching as it scraped a droplet of blood.

Ellie was quick to withdraw her fingers before your mouth clamped, clutching her palm as the crimson bead dribbled down onto the dusty sheet below. Her heart was hammering so painfully she was surprised you hadn't woken from it yet, though she could see your nostrils flay gently at the smell of her bleeding. Ellie was quick to scatter from the bed, knowing if her scent didn't wake you, the heat of her body would.

By dawn she'd made the decision, she would be what you need.

𓏲 ๋♱⁴⁴⁴

The cellar was cold, dark with tight walls of cobble. Everything was caged, hidden by a heavy wooden door. Ellie found you near the back, curled against the limestone and delirious. Tears had dried along your hollowed cheek as you gnawed on your own handkerchief. You looked so different like this, so different to how you did in the summer. Your cheeks were dull, eyes darkened and lost. Ellie wasn't surprised that you'd locked yourself down here, but it didn't help the ache.

"I've been looking for you.."

Your wife's voice came soft, her footsteps halting by your form. For a moment you considered grasping her by the ankle, burying your face into her calves. Your jaw snapped away, unable to look at her, to have her see you this way. Your body was sickly, tremoring to the bones beneath as sweat dribbled down your temple. Ellie wasn't afraid of you anymore, but you were afraid of yourself.

"Leave me, mouse.."

Your voice came darkened, cold, like a shallow stream. It wouldn't sway her. Ellie had already made up her mind, she would stand by you, no matter what. Her morality had been crumbling from the very moment you placed that ring on her finger, and you'd weaved around her heart more than she cared to admit. Ellie crouched down, trying to reach for your cold hand.

"I want to help, let me help.."

You recoiled from her touch, like any spike of heat would send you further into this frenzy. Dark strands of hair clung to your wet cheeks, sticking to the back of your neck and obscuring your face. It was pitiful, it was embarrassing, and for once it was Ellie that was trying to get to you. You shook your head, so weak that your heart couldn't bear it.

"You don't know what you're saying.."

Ellie's brow furrowed as your voice cut through, defensive, cold. There wasn't any part of her that was confused, unsure, she knew for certain that this was what she wanted. Her hand reached for your jaw, forcing you to look up at her. You were so unwell, drenched and feverish, but so unbelievably beautiful. She stroked along your cheek gently, pushing the messy hair from your face. Your mouth parted instinctively, swollen gums aching.

Her heart broke for you, in so much pain yet still trying to deny yourself in a futile attempt to keep her safe. Ellie used to resent you, used to grimace at every corner. It was a wonder that she'd come around, that she was now willingly offering herself to you but seeing you wither to nothing was something she wouldn't sit through. She shook her head gently, hovering just a breath away from your lips.

"Please, let me help you.."

Your eyes were sunken, dilated, focused on her. The lungs in your chest were tightly knit, painful as your breath grew shallow. Your teeth protruded instinctively, her smell making your eyes glisten in the damp cellar. The truth was that you were so afraid, knowing you could take too much. The last thing you wanted was to hurt her, to lose those freckles. Your hands itched to fist her shirt, to drag her in and clamp down on her throat. It seemed surreal that she was even here, offering herself to you.

Your wife was warm, so close that it almost burned your skin. You craved her on your lips, against your tongue and deeper. If this truly continued you'd grow even more attached than you already were, you'd never be able to separate yourself from her. It was harder than she could ever imagine to say no, to keep pushing her away.

"I won't let you waste yourself.."

At this, Ellie snapped. She grabbed you by the collar, pulling you tight to her, stealing your breath. Her eyes burned into yours, heavy beneath a furrowed brow.

"You don't get to choose that for me.."

Ellie rattled, fisting the fabric of your waistcoat and dragging you in. Before you could even dare to speak another protest, she pressed to your lips. To pull away was unthinkable, you were completely lost to the warmth of her maw. Unable to deny such a beautiful woman any longer, you molted to her arms like basalt. It was a struggle not to puncture her lower lip, your teeth feeling awkward and in the way. With a soft groan you clambered forward, pushing her downward.

You grasped the back of her crown before it could hit the cold cobble, pressing her into the ground. Ellie quivered beneath your weight, her hands gently roaming along your back. You had crawled over her hips, sitting above her pelvis. Your breaths were depraved, mouth too distracted to come up for air. When you did manage to pull apart, a string of drool connected your lips to hers, taunting you to return for more. Ellie's cheeks were flushed, gut burning heavily as you tried to recapture some sort of control.

"Darling, I'm warning you.. I won't be able to-.."

Ellie's hands slid to your hips, pressing beneath your shirt and steadying you. Her heart was rattling in her chest, the sight of you above doing nothing to quench how she felt. Your words were an afterthought, the cool stone balancing the sweat beginning to dust along her collar. She bucked, tauntingly, almost daring you to keep going. It flickered like a switch, your heart stuttering. If she was going to tease, so be it.

You shed your waistcoat and shirt, shrugging them down your shoulders and folding them. You settled the pile beneath her head, hoping to provide some sort of comfort from the rock. It was cold down here, dark and the last place you'd wanted. You'd hoped for this moment to be lavish, warm in soft silk and candles but you couldn't dare to stop now.

Ellie was staring shamefully at your chest, head lifting mindlessly as you slid the fabric below her crown. She shuddered as her mousy hair pressed back gently, still trailing her grip along your crooked hip. Part of her was uncertain, clawing at the indignity of it all. She'd never been this close to another woman, and she was sickened by how badly she wanted you.

As you leaned down again, her arms wrapped around your back, pressing you to her front. She was certain you could feel her pounding heart against your breast, and she blushed crimson against your bare shoulder. You only grinned tiredly, movements sluggish as you nosed against the side of her ear, chewing playfully.

"Don't get shy on me now.."

Ellie huffed as you began to stick kisses along the side of her neck, your cold lips sending a shiver through her skin. A gentle groan drifted from her fallen mouth, her fingers tracing the ridges of your back. Ellie could feel your exhaustion as you draped slowly along the column of her throat, your teeth bared instinctively. You leaned against your elbow, free hand fumbling with the buttons on your wife's blouse.

You near purred as her freckled skin came to face you, soft and beautiful like the rest of her. Ellie shuddered from the cold, pressed close to you as you dragged the fabric from her. Her lips sought yours, tender and demanding all at once. You let her have it, saliva coating your chin as your cold fingertips found her breast, squeezing gently in a way that made your wife pitiful.

You hushed Ellie's blustered moans, pulling back just enough to let her ground herself. You shifted to lay beside her, propped up on your elbow as you continued to trace her rosy chest. Your wife pressed to you quickly, peppering kisses of her own along your collar, her warm lips coating your skin. Her palm came to cradle the back of your neck, hips pressing against yours almost pleadingly. You grinned, staring down at her freckled cheeks.

"You're gorgeous.."

Your voice came low, taking her by the jaw.

"You're handsome.."

Ellie bit back teasingly, staring up at you with blown out pupils. Her brown tufts of hair were a mess, and you smoothed them over with your palm before bringing her in tighter, licking a stripe along her neck. Her skin was sweet, salted with sweat and your mouth watered even further. A ragged breath left your lips, part of you still uncertain about what was to come. Ellie could feel it, resting her head against yours while you nosed at her throat.

"Be gentle.."

Her voice comes soft, anxiously teasing. Her fingers moved to hold back your dark hair, feeling it tickle her jaw. Her voice ghosted above you, and you barely even registered it. The sound of her heart beat was fluttering through your skull, the stench of her skin drawing you closer as your teeth scratched against her throat. A trembling sigh fell from your lips, eyes glistening. You let your free hand fall to her pinstripe, unbuttoning them carefully.

Ellie watched through lidded eyes, feeling the bite of your cold fingertips against her warmth. She shivered, cheeks sticky red and waiting. You cooed gently as you traced along her seam, pressing heavy kisses along her neck that held a little too long. Ellie shuddered, knees pressing together as you caressed her glimmering lips. You craved to bring her pleasure amongst the pain you were about to inflict.

Ellie shivered from the cool stone below, and the nerves. She could feel your sharp teeth, scratching against her fluttering pulse. It grew harder to focus on, especially with your drool dripping down her shoulder and your hand beneath her trousers. A faint buzz kissed her skull, eyes rolling back with sounds that would make a saint blush. For a moment you simply stared, utterly captivated. She was so beautiful, so perfectly yours that it was painful.

You hadn't even realized she was so close to coming undone beneath your palm, but with her lifting there was no greater time. You dragged your sunken eyes from her face, finding that delicate spot along the column of her throat that gleamed with sweat. Your mouth was wet, tongue dragging across your lips as you bared your jaw, holding her down by the abdomen. A pleasant chill tickled your spine as you aligned, eyes pressing tight in desperation.

A gasp fled Ellie's lips as your teeth sank deep into her neck, the stinging pain shattering through the haze of hot pleasure, but your cold fingers didn't halt. She writhed beneath your grip, fisting your dark tufts of hair tightly as her vision blurred. You were lost, utterly. It was the first real taste you'd had in years, one unburdened by fear or hate. She chose to feed you out of love, and the taste of your wife was one you wouldn't soon forget.

It became so difficult to relent, with her sweetness on your tongue. You peered up at her, noticing that her skin had grown paler, her grip on your hair weakening. Despite the demands of your stomach, you wouldn't see her lose consciousness. You dragged your teeth from her throat, lapping the blood that oozed from the wound like you couldn't bear to see a single drop fall to waste. Ellie had found release somewhere in the middle, both of you too blown out to notice.

She shuddered as your sharp nails stroked her abdomen lovingly, still peppering striped licks along her neck. Your wife was bathed in a lightheaded glow, her eyes still fluttering as you gathered her into your arms. You'd taken so little, and already your body felt alive. The color had returned to your cheeks, stomach no longer in knots. It was one of the luxuries that human blood could provide, little went far. Ellie was wet clay in your arms, cold and incoherent.

"I love you.."

Her voice came muffled against your naked breast as you covered her in your coat, lifting her from the dark cellar. A gentle fondness bloomed on your lips, your nails running through her scalp as you replied.

"Don't be so certain mouse, you're dazed.."

Despite your teased retort, your heart was fluttering deep. Your wife's eyes were blown, speckled cheeks sticky red and warm. She was lovely.

"I mean it.."

Ellie murmured, her fingers coming to grip your coat gently as you carried her along the dark hallways, just as you'd done the night she arrived. Her eyes swallowed yours, and you were utterly enamored. You settled her into bed, tucking her beneath the covers. Your lips met hers so tender, your voice a breath.

"I love you too.."

index | epilogue . . .

[applejusue]

"Darling, you could be reading a pamphlet on grain, I'd still like it.."

are you trying to give me cardiac arrest.

YOU DEVOURED THAT OH. MY. GOD.

BABE.

you've rendered me speechless. i have no words. i am clutching my birkin like it's a lifeline. this was the most heart-shattering, seizure-inducing, fangirl-encouraging, toe-curling, finger-licking, heart-palpitating, earth-rotating piece of literature.

shakespeare couldn't capture yearning as good as you have. romeo and juliet?? BOOOO THAT'S BASICALLY A PICTURE BOOK IN COMPARISON. THE YEARNING??? THE DEVOTION FOR ONE ANOTHER??? THE PET NAMES??? IM COOKED.

YOU'VE RUINED ROMANCE FOR ME I CAN'T AND I WON'T SETTLE FOR ANYTHING LESS THAN THIS EVER AGAIN 😖💗💗💍💍

BAAAABBBY

That is exactly how I hoped for the last chapter to be read to be honest.

Me and yearning go WAY back. I really wanted a satisfying end to the series that felt earned, like that chapter has so many subtle references that it's basically my love letter to that style of writing. It's definitely a bit slow paced for some but for me it's right in that sweet spot where I have enough time to really flesh out a world without producing a bible worth of chapters.

As much as I do love filling requests for silly shorts and things, I'll always prefer my serious works and I hope to bring more of that to my blog! This is a place for me to get out all those reflective concepts (take Imposter Syndrome) that I've always had about series but never had a space to explore them!

I'm so glad we've reached out because I love having someone on the inside and you're always so supportive! Thank you so much for all the encouragement it means the world to have someone hyping me up 😽🩷

[applejusue]

little misfortunes next chapter is in development rn (thank you all for your patience)

[applejusue]

Orca!Vi having “hello” as one of her favorite/most used words has got me sobbing she’s so cute 😭walking down the pier to someone 7 ft tall waving and saying hello frequently at people would have me absolutely bewitched? like hello to you too you absolute gentle giant who’s also hot asf

She is genuinely so silly like deadass I do think that Vi loves to show off to other humans. Like all she knows is when you see someone you say hello, so best believe she says it every single time 😭 i think she just likes feeling close to reader, definitely be purring when she responds with hello baby (me too vi)

[applejusue]

bro I love your marine au so much dont ever stop <333 ALSOOO what about reader getting sick and orca!Vi not knowing what to do but still putting in sm effort to try and help bc she knows reader would help her plus she just loves reader sm KDNSKJS THIS AU IS SO CUTE I LOVE UR WORKS I LOVE YOUR MIND BYE BYE

Oh my lord sick reader Vi would DIE

Cus like orcas can definitely get infections and things like that but it would be quite different to see human symptoms! I think Vi for sure would panic and think that you're going to pass away 😭 lots of cries and heartbreak </3 when she realises you deadass just have a cold she's definitely very embarassed.

This begs the question though, Vi who has her first cold. Literal man baby, she's dying.