justmymindandstuff

[justmymindandstuff]

Hey<3 can i request 36 “i‘ve liked you for awhile now” with ridoc x bodhi?

Couldn't Make It Any Harder

･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *

Pairing(s): Ridoc x Bodhi

Warning(s): angst, surpression of feelings

Summary: Bodhi had been excited to begin his second year at Basgiath as an executive officer; he'd worked, trained, and been born for something like this. He hadn't realized the hard truths that would come with the new position; or with the new cadets crossing the parapet.

SR’s Note: Soooo funny enough, I have now recieved two requests for the exact same thing! So, naturally, this will have two parts. Also... you all continue to ask for new things from me all the time. That being said, this is my first piece without Y/N included in the relationship! I hope you enjoy, and the wait was well worth it.

Tags: @rcarbo1 @lilah-asteria @whyucloudingmymind @bookofriverr @kitsunetori @velarisdusk @nctsawrus @lreadsstuff @paintedbyshadows @woollybread786 @invisiblepixies @freakishfandomfiend @littleemissperfecttt @luvly-writer @fiahtheteaaddict @loveofmychips @bodhidurrans @notnowkittenwhisker (inbox me or comment if you'd like to be added!)

･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *

Bodhi was a simple man, and he liked it that way. Though the life surrounding him was nothing short of a raging mess, his interpersonal self remained simple enough. He had great friends, he enjoyed training and riding his dragon, and he'd even been promoted to the executive officer during his second year at Basgiath.

But, all that changed the day the new cadets crossed the parapet.

He'd been stationed alongside his cousin, Xaden Riorson, to observe as the newcomers made their way across. This day was always challenging, as Bodhi recalled his own crossing; but it was made even worse this year with the downpour.

"Sawyer Henrick," a shorter, strawberry-blonde kid with freckles said. The scribe on duty today scribbled his name on the parchment, giving him a silent nod before moving on to the next. He grinned as he rushed past the various riders, beelining right for his group of friends. The kid did have a cute face, his smile would surely woo the ladies.

Bodhi didn't look his way for very long, averting his eyes and once again focusing on the parapet.

"Next?" The scribe called. A girl with a long silver braid stepped forward.

"Violet Sorrengail."

Bodhi side-eyed his cousin. The falling rain did nothing to deter that usual cold, calculating look Xaden showed to the world. He watched as his third-year cousin shifted on his feet at the sound of the name. The Riorson family, as well as all of the marked ones had a long running history with the Sorrengails -- and Bodhi was sure the youngest's presence would only add fuel to the age-long fire.

Once the first year girl had walked away, Xaden turned to his cousin.

"This is going to be quite the year," he ground out, and Bodhi watched in amusement as Xaden's eyes darkened. He hadn't actually looked at his cousin, but past him -- further off, Dain Aetos had taken to talking with the newcomer, and it seemed to ruffle Xaden's feathers. Bodhi chuckled.

"If all we have to handle this year is the last of the Sorrengails," Bodhi began, giving his cousin an amused stare. "I think we'll be just fine."

Xaden huffed, turning back to focus on the parapet. Bodhi did the same -- just in time to see the newest cadet stumble off the parapet, smiling wildly as he shook his dark hair like a dog.

His cousin scoffed at the crude, delighted behavior, and Bodhi felt something twist in his chest. The boy practically skipped over to the scribe, announcing his name loudly as he threw his arms wide.

"Ridoc Gamlyn, at your service!"

Bodhi couldn't look away. He watched the dark-haired boy rush toward a group of others -- surely, friends -- and begin to speak animatedly with them. His arms gestured wildly, waving and recalling what he'd just experienced moments before.

Xaden chuckled lowly, which brought Bodhi's attention back to the present.

"I doubt Violet Sorrengail will be the only problem we'll face this year."

Bodhi's cheeks warmed, and he worked to keep his gaze forward. Only when the last cadet had crossed did he dare look Ridoc Gamlyn's way again, his chest whirling as it did the first time he'd seen him.

Xaden was right. Violet Sorrengail wouldn't be the only problem they'd face this year.

Not even close.

✧･ﾟ: *

It'd been three months. Three months since Ridoc first showed up in the rider's quadrant. Three months worth of training, sparring, and classes as the first year prepared for Threshing.

As for Bodhi, it'd been three months of sheer Hell.

Of course the first year he'd inconspicuously had his eye on wouldn't be assigned to his wing, nor his section; that'd be all too convenient. What was convenient, however, was the amount of time the group he presided over spent with the flame section of the fourth wing -- an unlikely pairing, but it just happened as so. At first, the first year had occupied his thoughts long after leaving the training ring for the day; now, he was constantly on his mind.

"Next!" Emmetario called, and the Sorrengail took the mat. Bodhi's eyes flicked to Xaden, watching from the shadows near the exit. She was up against a stocky, brooding fellow today; not entirely a fair fight in his opinion, but it wasn't his decision to have.

"Go Violet!"

Bodhi's spine straightened at the sound of Ridoc's voice -- it always did. Of course he'd befriend the biggest challenge of the school year. It would work out that way.

Bodhi watched in surprise as the small woman got a few hits on her lumpish opponent, fighting with more skill than he'd originally gave her credit for. She swung, dove, and practically danced across the mat; the male could barely keep up.

His brow furrowed as the squat opponent lunged at her, catching her knee and throwing her to the mat. She coughed, and he reached for her again.

Now that he thought about it, her moves would strike him as familiar. He'd seen them before, practiced over and over before him all his life...

He averted his eyes as the guy's fist connected with Violet's ribs. Turning, he spied Xaden, wincing with every hit the man got on his female counterpart. Violet cried out as a particularly hard slap of skin echoed through the training cell... and with that, Xaden abruptly left.

Bodhi swung his gaze to Emmetario, who'd stepped both feet onto the mat.

"That's enough!"

The male was sweating as he towered over Violet, his face beet red as he leaned back on his haunches. Emmetario looked around wildly, seeming to panic when Violet didn't move.

"You two," he said, motioning for two of her squadmates to come forward. "Take her to the healers, this instant."

Bodhi watched was both Ridoc and a girl with dark braids rushed forward, hauling their friend up by the underarms. Her body hung limply, almost too blodied and bruised to look at.

"Where the Hell is Aetos?" Emmetario swore, frantically searching the gathering crowd near the mat's edge. "Someone find me-!"

"I'll go," Bodhi said aloud, stepping up onto the mat. It drew the Professor's attention, and he'd lie if he said it hadn't drawn Ridoc's too. "I'll go with them."

"Thank you, Bodhi." Emmetario sighed, motioning toward the small group. "Ensure they make it there safely."

The executive officer nodded once, turning to face the scene before him. He wanted to mentally slap himself for his wandering gaze in that moment, focused on Ridoc's exposed, flexing arms as he lifted Violet from the floor. It was the other girl's struggling groans that brought him back to the moment.

"I can't... I can't lift her-"

Bodhi stepped in immediately. He laid a gentle hand atop Violet's friend's shoulder, fixing her with a reassuring gaze.

"Allow me. Please," he insisted. She nodded, backing off as Bodhi drew closer. He didn't quite appreciate the task at hand -- the girl's mother had killed his uncle, after all. Reguardless, he swung her arm over his shoulder, his arm holding tight to her waist as he stood.

"Alright," he grunted, trying to ignore the tingling where Ridoc's arm touched his as it wrapped around Violet's opposing side. "To the healers."

✧･ﾟ: *

Nolon had sent both of Violet's friends out of the room as he began to work. The clock on the wall read nearly nine pm... almost three hours since he'd helped transport the girl to the healer's office.

Three hours he'd tried, and failed, to not stare across the hallway.

Ridoc sat, bouncing his knee as he waited for any news. The braided female -- Rhiannon, he'd learned -- had fallen asleep, her head occupying the space on Ridoc's shoulder. It wasn't long before she awoke, grumbling about his foot-tapping.

"It's nearly nine," Ridoc said, straightening in his seat. "You should head to bed."

She scoffed, rubbing her eyes. "Okay, dad. Why don't you go?"

The brunette shrugged. "Someone should be here when Violet wakes up."

She raised a conspiratorial eyebrow. "Oh really? And why not me?"

Bodhi had heard enough, sighing loudly as if to remind them both that he was still there. They turned in synchrony, looking wide-eyed to their superior.

"I can stay."

The hall was quiet for a moment as they both pondered this. Bodhi breathed in deeply once more.

"You two should go. Besides, with Threshing in a few days, you'll need all the rest you can get."

Rhiannon sighed, nodding once before standing.

"You're sure you're okay to stay?"

Bodhi nodded wordlessly, and watched as she said her goodbyes to Ridoc before striding out. Bodhi fixed the other first year with a stare, intentionally this time. He arched an eyebrow when he didn't move.

Ridoc laughed sheepishly, scratching at the back of his neck.

"Yeah, uh... I think I'll stay too. If that's cool with you."

Bodhi froze. No, that wasn't cool with him at all -- but what would he say? No, you have to leave because I can't be alone in the same room as you for too long?

Ridoc adjusted in his seat, leaning forward and steepleing his fingers between his knees.

"So, how do you like bein' a... officer, and everything?" Ridoc asked, looking at Bodhi innocently. He fixed the chatty first year with a hard stare, but only got a goofy smile in return.

"No wonder you and Xaden are cousins," he chuckled, leaning back in his seat once more. "You both try and act all intimidating all the time, when you're really not."

Bodhi frowned, not expecting this.

"Excuse me?"

Ridoc shrugged, crossing one knee over the other.

"I just mean, you both have this dark and broody facade going on but... we all know Xaden helped Violet these last few months with fighting. Probably why she didn't get killed today."

Bodhi simply stared, unsure what to say. Ridoc went on.

"You thought," he said, a hint of accusation in his tone. "I don't know about you quite yet. So tell me; what's your vice? Is it a girl, perhaps? Like the one that’s softened your cousin?"

Bodhi scoffed, having to laugh at this. When he met Ridoc's eye once more, he swore he saw a twinkle there.

"No, not a girl." He responded lowly. "Not a girl at all."

✧･ﾟ: *

In the month following, Bodhi had been driven more and more mad. Not only had the flame section infultrated his friend group, but the sections were spending more and more time together. He wouldn't lie to himself and say the time spent with Ridoc was unbearable, but...

"So, what's it like being bonded to a green?"

In front of Ridoc, Bodhi would always pretend like it was.

Sighing dramatically, the two males walked alongside eachother. "Ridoc, you're only a year younger than me," Bodhi said, feigning exasperation. "You act like I have some kind of wise, older experience that I could pass along to you."

Ridoc chuckled, a sound Bodhi had grown to love; even if it meant acting differently than how he truly felt to draw it out of him.

"Sheesh," Ridoc said, holding up his hands in defense. "Just wondered how different it was riding Aotrom instead of Cuir."

Bodhi went quiet, thinking of something really different the first year could ride, if only he wanted to.

The two had approached the door to the battle briefing room, and Ridoc had started chatting with Sawyer when he walked up. Students filed in one by one, and Ridoc had no issue slipping right into line in front of Bodhi. The second year caught his breath as Ridoc's hand grazed his, the touch featherlight, but it was there.

He his the fluttering in his heart with a pointed scowl.

And he couldn't even pretend to be surprised when the first year turned, gracing him with nothing more than a playful wink.

✧･ﾟ: *

It was in the last two weeks before winter's break that Bodhi's closest friend Imogen (save for Xaden) had begun to suspect something was off. She'd fought at his side all year, helping in training and getting to know the newer cadets while still keeping a close eye on him. She'd sensed his change in demeanor in July when the first years arrived -- at first assuming it was just his maturity coming out. But now, she knew something was up.

"What's got you so fidgety?" She questioned, observing Bodhi as he sat beside her in battle brief once again. The lesson hadn't yet begun, but they'd arrived early per usual. They found they'd secure prime seatintg this way, typically just behind the first years that had grown on them like vines over the past few months but not too far from the presentation stage.

She watched as Bodhi turned, the sound of Ridoc's laughter echoing through the chamber catching his attention. He walked down the stairs with his squadmates, following them as they filed into the row of seats just before the two second years. Her eyes widened as she took it all in, realizing her suspicion all along; Bodhi had fallen in love.

"Sooo... how long exactly have you been in love with Violet Sorrengail?"

Bodhi's gaze snapped in her direction, and he coughed at the accusation.

"E-Excuse me?"

"I get it now," she said, boredly twirling a dagger through her fingers. "You're always so tense when she's around with her little posse, and you avoid speaking to them when they sit with us at lunch. Not to mention training with them-"

"I'm not in love with Violet," Bodhi hissed, but Imogen simply rolled her eyes. "Not in love with anyone, for that matter. Now, could you keep your voice down?"

She sighed. "For your sake, I hope you're not lying -- how complicated would that be if you tried to go for Xaden's girl."

Bodhi simply readjusted in his seat, his gaze kept forward. While he was thankful Imogen didn't suspect correctly, he hated how obvious he'd been at all. If she knew something was up, there was no telling how soon Ridoc would catch on and then the whole squad and-

"Ayo! Charlie," Ridoc called, getting the attention of one of your year-mates seated a few rows down. The boy turned, raising an eyebrow as Ridoc spoke loudly to him. "Heard you talkin' mad shit about me after training yesterday; you sounded damn near obsessed with me, man. Why don't you meet me after class, we can settle this in my dorm?"

Charlie narrowed his eyes. Sure, he'd heard the beefy boy smearing dirt on the first-year's name late last night; truthfully, it took everything in Bodhi not to pin him to the mat and force him to eat his words. Reguardless, Ridoc's friends found this little outing funny, giggling and snickering in their seats.

"I don't do first-years," Charlie sneered, making to turn and face forward. Professor Duvera flanked the podium, but Bodhi couldn't tear his gaze from Ridoc. Expecially as he stretched those lean arms out, reaching them behind his head as he kicked up his feet on the seatback before him.

"Good thing I fuck like a third."

For once, Bodhi was grateful the lights dimmed at the beginning of brief, for it hid the flaming blush covering his cheeks.

✧･ﾟ: *

The final evening before break, the school had hosted a winter's eve party in the grand ballroom of the college. Practically everyone was going, especially the upperclassmen -- Bodhi had no doubt he'd find Ridoc there, too.

When would enough be enough? he thought, straightening his tie for what felt like the hundredth time that evening. Would he ever have the courage to come clean with his feelings?

He shook his head at the thought, effectively ruffling his curls. Nonsense, he convinced himself. He could never truly share how he felt -- especially about another male. Especially one younger than him.

Though the confirmation that Ridoc was into guys lifted the burden off of Bodhi's shoulders (or, was he just trying to get a rise out of Charlie that morning at battle brief?), the niggling feeling was still there that he could never be fully honest about how he felt. He'd never told anyone, anyone the truth about his sexuality -- and he wasn't about to start now. Bodhi preferred the simplicity in hiding it; he had just gotten the officer position this year. A scandal, especially one involving a younger rider, could set his entire world ablaze.

But, if he truly loved Ridoc as he had come to terms with, wouldn't he let the world burn? Even if simply for the sake of that?

He'd shoved on his shoes and was at the door before he could think too much more about it.

✧･ﾟ: *

The music blared as Bodhi entered the ballroom, both Imogen and Quinn flanking his sides. The girls gossiped and giggled over the various students dressed up for the evening -- especially the older ones. Bodhi only half-listened, already regretting his decision to come to this thing.

"Bodhi, c'mon let's go get drinks!" Imogen cheered, tugging his elbow toward the bar. Bodhi watched quietly as pretty dresses and sharp suits shuffled by him, not necissarily intrigued by any single one of them.

After ordering and downing his first Jack and Coke of the evening, he felt it. A familiar hand on his shoulder, that irresistable pine and soapy scent he'd come to memorize...

"Hey!"

Bodhi turned so sharply, it sent Ridoc staggering back a few steps. He smiled, bright and lovely as their eyes met -- the sight of it almost made Bodhi smile back.

Almost.

"Woah, chill! Just came to say you're looking sharp this evening, Mr. Durran." Ridoc winked playfully. Bodhi took one step closer, unable to keep his distance.

"Thanks," he said, his voice low. Even as all the bodies moved and danced around the two of them, Bodhi wouldn't focus on a single sparkle, sequin or ruffle; his eyes were glued to Ridoc. His dark green suit fit him so well, showing off those tones arms beneath the jacket. His shirt, tucked in, stretched just tight enough that his abs were loosely defined; and Gods, his thighs-

"...But, don't ever call me that again." Bodhi finished, swallowing thickly. Ridoc rose an eyebrow, leaning in closer to the officer.

"What, don't like it when I use your formal title?" He teased. Bodhi stood still, his spine ramrod straight. Ridoc reached up then, unable to help himself from straightening Bodhi's tie once more. Upon further inspection, his eyes lit up.

"Hey, your tie isn't black... it's actually green!" Ridoc commented, his knuckled remaining on Bodhi's chest. Heat flared in the place they touched, and he worked to keep his breathing under control. "My favorite color, if you couldn't tell. We match!"

Bodhi nodded softly, his shoulders relaxing as he took in Ridoc's closeness. It'd be so easy, so simple to just tell him how he felt...

"Looks like their are some loveable qualities about you after all," Ridoc continued. Bodhi's heart fluttered, just hearing Ridoc say those words. Even if he only meant to tease... he'd still said them. "I called it. Months ago, remember? Outside the healer's office?"

Bodhi stiffened as Xaden passed, just behind Ridoc. He barely spared his cousin a glance, solely focused on following wherever Violet was leading him. It was then that he remembered his place; who he was, where he was. It wouldn't matter that the love of his life was right here, right in front of him; he'd never be able to have him in the way he wanted.

"I'm not easy to love, Ridoc." Bodhi said flatly. "In fact, I don't think I could make it harder to love me, even if I tried my damnedest."

Ridoc stepped back, his usual glee fading as his eyes rounded with sadness. Bodhi's brows rose, not meaning for his words to hurt him, ever. Reguardless, he wasn't prepared when Ridoc spoke again.

"Why do you hate me so much?" Ridoc asked, hurt dripping from the question. Bodhi stepped forward, aiming to keep his voice low as his pulse raced.

"Oh, no I... I don't know where you got that idea, I actually really like-"

"Ridoc!"

Both the boys heads turned at the sound of a rather perky, rather female voice. A blonde first-year that Bodhi hadn't met before strode toward the two, accentuating her steps to force her hips to sway. Bodhi's face fell as he took her in, cleavage and all.

"Ridoc, please," she asked politely, sliding her red-painted nails over Ridoc's shoulder. "Have a dance with me?"

He'd been so caught up, Bodhi hadn't even realized the music had changed. Sure enough, a slow and sensual song filled the ballroom, and many couples had flanked the dance floor in pairs. Ridoc smiled politely at the girl, his eyes dropping to over bustling top as well.

So much for confirming he only liked boys.

"I'd be happy to," Ridoc said, taking her hand in his. Bodhi's heart stopped as he watched him guide her onto the floor, muttering one last thing before departing.

"We were done here, anwyays."

Bodhi stared after the two, after Ridoc -- walking away from him, on the arm of a girl.

His throat constricted, as though all the air in the room had left with the first year. His voice came out a mere whisper, as he forced the words out.

"I actually really like you, Ridoc. Maybe even more than just like you. I've actually liked you for quite a while now."

After that, he turned and headed for the door.

✧･ﾟ: *

He'd made it all the way down the deserted second year's corridor, nearly reaching the door to his private dorm when his name was called out from behind him. At first, he'd thought he'd imagined it; but when he heard it again, he turned.

Ridoc sprinted down the hall, boots thudding as he ran his fastest at the executive officer. Bodhi's breath caught in his throat. Surely this was a dream. It had to be a dream.

The first year was panting when he finally caught up to Bodhi, doubling over as he worked to catch his breath. He must've kicked up a good speed; Bodhi had left the party nearly a half-hour ago, in favor of sulking his way back to his room for the remainder of the evening. Ridoc breathed heavily, nearly theatrical as his hands braced his knees.

"Stand up," Bodhi chastized, squaring his shoulders as he stared down at the boy. Ridoc heaved a large breath, tilting his chin to look up at the third year.

Bodhi's heart nearly stopped.

"I had to.... had to catch you... I...." he panted. Bodhi crossed his arms, trying to stay patient as Ridoc huffed the words out. "I... uh... why'd you leave?"

Now it was Bodhi's turn to lose a breath. Ridoc straightened, rolling out his shoulders as he breathed deeply once again. His eyes remained on Bodhi's, watching and waiting for an explaination. Bodhi supposed it didn't matter now, what was the use in playing any more games?

"I had no reason to stay," he said curtly, and Ridoc frowned.

"Seriously? Not one reason?" He asked, sounding incredulous. Bodhi shrugged, feeling heat creep onto his face as he revealed the tiniest bit of himself to the younger male.

"My one reason was dancing with someone else," he spat. Ridoc stilled, his hands falling from where they'd planted on his hips. His gaze softened as he took in what Bodhi had said; hoping, and praying, it might be about him.

"Oh," was all Ridoc could think to say. His usual sharp tongue hadn't readied a witty response for that one, in fact... he couldn't come up with anything at all. Bodhi turned, his hand reaching for the doorknob.

"Yeah, so... you should go back. Enjoy your night with... whoever that was-"

Bodhi halted as Ridoc lunged forward, his hand covering Bodhi's on the door handle. His breaths became more ragged, having him so close. Bodhi turned slowly, his eyes meeting Ridoc's so close to his own. The two were so close they shared breath, Hell, Ridoc's nose nearly brushed Bodhi's. Ridoc paused, all the words he wanted to say dying on his tongue as his gaze cast downward, focusing on the mouth before him.

"I don't enjoy anything unless it's with you."

Bodhi studied him. The rawness in his admission, the pleading stare he fixed him with; the second year had never felt so seen, so wanted. The moment he'd waited, prayed and dreamed for was finally happening, right here before his very eyes. He couldn't let Ridoc slip away -- not again. He just couldn't.

He leaned in, his eyes fluttering closed as his lips finally, finally found their home.

✧･ﾟ: *

Illicit Affairs

[justmymindandstuff]

"He could be as good and true a son as Robb."

[justmymindandstuff]

Ridoc : I only ever said " I love you" to three people in my life : my mom, my dad and a dying Aotrom and one of those I regret

Violet : which one?

Ridoc : Aotrom. He made it out alive and now I look like an idiot.

[justmymindandstuff]

— She had not thought of Jon in ages. He was only her half brother, but still… with Robb and Bran and Rickon dead, Jon Snow was the only brother that remained to her. I am a bastard too now, just like him. Oh, it would be so sweet to see him once again.

[justmymindandstuff]

soft touches- Dain Aetos x Sloane Mairi

summary: Sloane is to tired to talk, so she just shows Dain her shitty day.

words:616

a/n: just a Slain blurb. Hope you like it. 🧡

not proofread// English is not my first language

main-masterlist/ the empyrean- masterlist

Dain looks up from his book as his door opens. Sloane steps through his wards, letting the door close behind her. His gaze follows her as she slips off her boots, throws her flight jacket on the floor next to the door, and begins to draw her daggers to put them all on his desk.

She scatters her things around the room as if it were hers. Dain's heart flutters at the thought.

He really tried to stay away. She is a Rookie. In his Wing. But Sloane Mairi has haunt him since the moment she stepped off the Parapet.

First in his nightmares. Then in other dreams.

She costs him his last nerve and all his self-control.

But after Draithus Dain couldn't stay away anymore.

And so they both ended up here.

"I'm so damn tired." Sloane rolls her tense shoulders back and turns to him. Dain's gaze sweeps over her. He admires her beauty and simultaneously checks her for any signs of injuries. He is relieved when he doesn't find any.

She looks exhausted

"What happened?" Dain asks, putting his book down and sliding sideways on his bed. As Wingleader Dain had kept his room for himself, despite the arrival of the Fliers in Aretia. Now he feels like he shares it with Sloane. He likes that thought more than he should at this point in their relationship. And because they are at war.

Sloane lies down next to him, snuggles into his arms and buries her nose in his collarbone. Dain begins to gently stroke her blond curls.

"J..t s..it hap..," she murmurs.

"I barely understand you," Dain laughs softly, kissing the top of her head.

"Just shit happened." she raises her head, resting her chin on her hands on his chest. Sky-blue eyes look at him, but Sloane blinks more often than usual. She takes his hand and places it on her cheek, er skin feels soft under his fingers. His thumb caress her cheek.

"Read my thoughts."

Dain thinks he didn't hear correctly. "What?" he asks, shocked.

Sloane smiles at him gently. "I'm too tired to talk. Read my thoughts."

"Are you absolutely sure?" he asks again. He's never even tried to read her mind. He's worked with Sloane on her shields. He's worked on his control over his signet. He never wants to trip with her.

"I trust you Dain." she stretches, blows a kiss on his lips before pressing his hand lightly to her cheek.

Dain searches her eyes, but sees no doubt. She nods slightly. His fingers tingle slightly as they caress her skin. He lets magic flow over his fingertips. Concentrating on the memories of that day, on what Sloane wants to show him, as she walks him backwards through her day.

She stumbles up the stairs to his room.

An exploding rune in class. Imogen's laughter.

During the flying maneuver, she almost slipped off Thoirt because her thigh was cramping. Add to that: rain and her dragon, which was whining the whole time.

Professor Devera's disappointed look when she answered a question in Battle Brief wrong.

Bodhi raising an eyebrow and shaking his head slightly when she arrives late to the room.

He sees himself, fully dressed and ready, pressing a kiss on her lips. "You have to get up or you'll be late." his voice sounds warmer than he remembers.

Dain encounters a stop. Immediately, he cuts off the flow of magic. Her thoughts disappear.

His gaze refocuses on the beautiful face before him. Sloane gives him a smile. "At least I started the day with a good memory," she says, snuggling back against his chest. Dain is sure she can hear his heart racing.

[justmymindandstuff]

The Brain. The Heart. The Sword.

[justmymindandstuff]

*me after 17 days of not messaging back* sorry I was too sad to reply what’s up haha

[justmymindandstuff]

Cat: You often use humor to deflect trauma.

Ridoc: Thank you.

Cat: I didn't say that was a good thing.

Ridoc: What I'm hearing is, you think I'm funny.

[justmymindandstuff]

today I used the phrase "breasting boobily" in casual real life conversation and everyone was shocked asking how I came up with that and I had to explain it. ive been at the devil's sacrament so long that I forgot he wasn't god

[justmymindandstuff]

*after threshing*

Aotrom: you faint at the sight of blood?

Ridoc: No! But I might at the sight of a CHOPPED OFF ARM!

[justmymindandstuff]

Bran Stark & Robb Stark// Peter by Taylor Swift

[justmymindandstuff]

Sup again, looking for a fic from a while back that I'm starting to believe got deleted or moved.

It was a Bodhi x Reader fic that took place right after Violet got back with Bodhi's flight jacket. Reader had been bugging Bodhi about wearing his flight jacket to make it official cause they had been dating for a while, and for some reason Bodhi always just said no. Then here comes Violet saying thank you for the jacket, and bodhi knows he messed up when reader leaves him in the cafeteria. Imogen tells him he's an idiot, Violet and reader get a moment to talk about how both cousins can be rude sometimes, and bodhi does apologize for it.

I remember reading it back in 2024 before onyx storm came out but I don't remember if it was Tumblr or if it was Ao3. But I just remember it short but sweet.

Thank you in advance if anyone recalls what I was talking about. Maybe I just scrolled past it while looking or maybe the creator deleted it.

[justmymindandstuff]

A cousin mess

Pairing: Bodhi Durran x Sorrengail!Reader

Summary: Being Violet Sorrengail’s cousin was already hard enough—being caught sneaking out of your section leader Bodhi Durran’s bed at dawn by Xaden Riorson, fresh from Violet’s room, was a special kind of hell. What follows is a tangled mess of whispered arguments, loyalty wars, and night-time rendezvous no war college rulebook could prepare you for.

Warning: Explicit content, mentions of smut, mutual pettiness, and way too many cousins making bad decisions.

Being a Sorrengail had always come with weight.

You carried it like a second skin, worn and stretched tight across your bones since the moment you could walk. Expectations were stitched into your name, assumptions following like a shadow you could never shake. Mira blazed a path of honour and command. Lilith forged hers in steel and blood. Violet? Violet shattered every mould she touched.

And you? You were the cousin. The one tucked just far enough away from centre stage to be forgotten—until now.

Basgiath didn’t care who you were related to. It chewed on legacies and spat out corpses, and you were doing your best not to become one of them. Being in the same year as Violet made it… complicated. Mira had pulled you aside before Conscription Day, her hand gripping your shoulder with that unshakable Commander focus in her eyes.

“Protect her,” she’d said, voice low, urgent. “She doesn’t know how to survive in a place like this. Not like we do.”

Except Violet—blessedly stubborn, recklessly brilliant Violet—seemed to have no interest in being protected. She disobeyed the basic laws of physics with her ability to get herself nearly killed. Climbing trees to outrun other cadets, defying direct orders from Xaden Riorson, jumping headfirst into challenges with nothing but sarcasm and sheer nerve.

And now? Now she was bonded to Tairn—a dragon older than most mountain ranges and mated to Sgaeyl, the most terrifying creature in the sky.

Which meant your cousin was irrevocably linked to Xaden Riorson.

And you were stuck watching their growing bond unfold in terrifying proximity. Mira’s warning haunted you—“Keep her away from him”—but how the hell were you supposed to do that when their dragons were soul-bound lovers and Tairn would probably set the entire quadrant on fire if they didn’t breathe the same air?

So while Violet and Xaden bristled and burned their way toward whatever inevitable storm they were summoning, you were left fighting off Dust-born threats, surviving gruelling assessments, and covering for your cousin’s increasingly dangerous choices.

And somewhere in the middle of all that chaos… you fell for Bodhi Durran.

Gods, you told yourself it was just a crush. Something fleeting. A temporary infatuation born of stress and sweat and the way his hair curled at the ends when it got too long. But that was weeks ago.

Now?

Now you were tangled in his sheets, your skin bare beneath his as sunlight threatened the horizon but didn’t dare break through yet. The dorm was quiet. Everyone else had long since collapsed into sleep or vanished into early morning training. But Bodhi?

He had other plans.

“You’re not getting out of this quiz,” he murmured, lips brushing the slope of your neck, sending a shiver cascading down your spine. “You’ve got an exam in three hours, and you said you wanted to pass without cheating.”

His fingers lazily traced the curve of your thigh where it hooked over his hip, holding you close. Your body still buzzed from everything that had happened minutes ago, a warm ache spreading deep in your bones in the most satisfying way.

“Boh,” you sighed, drawing out the nickname only you called him. Your voice was thick with sleep and the remnants of pleasure, and he hummed at the sound of it against his skin. “You’re literally inside me and trying to quiz me on military history.”

“You’re smart. You can multitask,” he said, smirking, dipping his head again to place another maddeningly slow kiss beneath your jaw, your collarbone, lower. “Name the last battle Commander Melgren led before the Third Rebellion.”

“Gods,” you breathed, arching into him. “Are you seriously doing this right now?”

“You said you wanted to learn. I’m a very thorough teacher.”

You swatted lightly at his shoulder, and he laughed softly against your skin, nuzzling at your neck before pulling back just enough to meet your eyes. His gaze was sleepy and warm and dangerous all at once—because Bodhi Durran had always been dangerous. Not in the same way Xaden was, all shadows and smoke and silent rage. No, Boh was sharp in a different way. Subtle. Patient. He cracked you open one kiss at a time.

You hated that you liked him. Loved that you did.

And in moments like this, when the world wasn’t watching and Violet wasn’t nearly dying and you weren’t buried under the weight of Sorrengail blood… you could breathe.

“You’re thinking again,” he said quietly, fingers brushing your temple. “Don’t. Not yet.”

“I have to,” you whispered. “Eventually.”

He pressed his forehead to yours, and the teasing was gone now, melted away into something real. Something that made your chest ache.

“You’re not your cousin,” he said softly. “You’re you. You don’t have to carry everyone.”

You blinked, and your heart stuttered painfully. “Yeah? And what if carrying her is the only reason I’m still breathing?”

Boh didn’t answer right away. He just kissed you—slow and deep and grounding.

And for a little while longer, you let yourself exist only in the warmth of his arms, your tangled sheets, and the promise of a tomorrow you might actually live to see.

You sigh against his lips and pull back—just slightly—pressing a hand to his chest. He’s warm under your palm, steady and solid like the only thing in this godsdamned place that doesn’t shift beneath your feet.

But your voice is soft when you speak. “I should go.”

Bodhi frowns, his dark brow creasing, but doesn’t move. “No.”

“Boh—”

“It’s not even light out yet,” he says, voice still husky from sleep and sin. His fingers flex on your hip like he could keep you here with just that touch, and honestly, it’s unfair how effective it is. “Stay a little longer.”

You shake your head, though it kills you. “If I leave when everyone else is waking up and sees me sneaking out of your room, it’ll be all over the quadrant by breakfast.”

He groans and rolls onto his back beside you, flopping dramatically into the pillow like you’ve mortally wounded him. “Let them talk. You think I care what they say?”

“I care,” you admit, pulling the blanket up over your chest as you sit up slightly, heart hammering as you glance at the door like it might swing open at any second and reveal a very judgmental Sorrengail sister. “I’ve got enough eyes on me already. Violet, Mira, Xaden—”

That gets his attention. His head snaps toward you. “What the hell does Xaden have to do with anything?”

You glance down at the sheets, twisting the corner of the blanket between your fingers. “He doesn’t, not really. But he’s always around Violet. And I’m always around her. And he’s your cousin. So, you know, it’s… messy.”

Bodhi pushes himself up on one elbow, dark curls a mess against his forehead, bare chest glowing gold in the faint predawn light sneaking in through the window. His voice is gentler this time, but still firm.

“Messy doesn’t mean wrong.”

You look at him, eyes narrowed. “We’re cadets sneaking around in the middle of a quite traumatic year. You’re my section leader. I’m a Sorrengail. You’re a Durran. And this—” You gesture vaguely between your bodies. “—is very, very naked.”

He smirks like the smug bastard he is. “Best part of my day, honestly.”

You groan and shove his shoulder, but he catches your wrist before you can pull away, lacing your fingers together.

His voice drops lower, almost serious. “I don’t want you to leave. Not yet.”

The honesty in his tone slices through you with all the gentleness of a blade. And for a second, just a breath, you hesitate. It would be so easy to stay. To curl back into his warmth and let the outside world fall away.

But you know better. Basgiath doesn’t allow easy.

So you press your forehead to his and whisper, “You’ll see me tonight?”

His smile softens. “Every night you’ll have me.”

Gods, you are so screwed.

You pull away—slowly, deliberately—feeling every place your body protests the loss of his heat. You collect your clothes silently, his gaze never once leaving your figure as you shimmy into your leggings, his oversized shirt still clinging to your shoulders like it belongs there.

He stays in bed, one arm thrown over the pillow where your head just was. His expression is unreadable, a strange mix of longing and something darker beneath it, something he’s not ready to say out loud.

You pad barefoot to the door, pausing with your hand on the handle.

“I’ll get points docked if you fall asleep in class,” you say over your shoulder, trying to keep the mood light.

“I’ll survive.” He leans back and grins. “But your punishment will be making it up to me later.”

You roll your eyes but smile—genuine and maybe a little too wide—and slip out before you lose your nerve.

The hallway is dim, the stone cool beneath your bare feet as you tiptoe your way toward your own room, Bodhi’s oversized shirt hanging past your thighs and still warm from his body. You’re three doors down—so close to freedom—when another door creaks open ahead of you.

You freeze.

It’s Violet’s door.

And stepping out—hoodless, shirt askew, hair unmistakably mussed—is Xaden godsdamned Riorson.

He doesn’t see you at first. He’s too busy pulling his jacket straight, running a hand through his dark hair, looking every bit as guilty as you feel.

But then he looks up.

You both stop.

Eyes widen.

And in perfect synchronicity, you both whisper shout at the exact same time:

“What the hell were you doing in my cousin’s room?!”

“What the hell are you doing in my cousin’s shirt?!”

You blink. “Excuse me?”

He gestures wildly, pointing at the garment hanging off your frame. “That’s Bodhi’s! That’s his shirt!”

“And you were just in Violet’s room,” you hiss, stalking toward him with a level of righteous rage that has you vibrating. “You swore to Mira—you know what? No. I swore to Mira that I’d keep Violet safe from you!”

He scoffs. “Safe from me? I’m the only reason she’s still breathing.”

You jab your finger into his chest, teeth clenched. “That’s my cousin in there!”

He leans in, dark eyes blazing. “That’s my cousin down the hall!”

You both pause, breathing hard in the near-darkness, your whispered shouting echoing off the stone walls.

His voice drops, tight and clipped. “You’re a first year. I don’t have to explain myself to you.”

You blink at him, slow and deadly. “Try pulling rank on me again, Riorson. I dare you.”

He opens his mouth like he might try it anyway, but the stare you level at him—pure Sorrengail steel sharpened by years of being underestimated—makes him think better of it. He shuts his mouth with a snap and takes a half-step back.

There’s a long beat where you both just glare at each other. Silent. Fuming.

You mutter, “I’m gonna vomit.”

He crosses his arms. “Yeah, right after me.”

You spin on your heel, storming toward Violet’s door. “I swear to the wards, if you broke her heart I’ll find a way to make Sgaeyl regret ever mating.”

“Right back at you, sweetheart,” he calls after you, already stalking toward Bodhi’s door. “If you mess with Bodhi, I’ll tell Mira you slept with your section leader.”

You whirl around, whisper-yelling, “YOU WON’T—”

Both of you freeze again—guilty, caught, panting with rage—and then scramble in opposite directions.

You rush the last few steps to Violet’s door, knuckles already rapping in rapid succession, whispering furiously, “Violet, open up! I need to scream into your pillow or jump out your window or maybe shove you out of it, whichever happens first—”

Behind you, you hear Xaden’s fist slam against Bodhi’s door. “Bodhi, open the door before I throw you out the godsdamn window—”

Two doors creak open at once.

Two cousins blink sleepily in the thresholds.

Two pairs of voices say, in perfect, groggy harmony:

“What the hell is going on?

[justmymindandstuff]

[justmymindandstuff]

Y'all moved on but I'm still mourning him.

[justmymindandstuff]

Would you do patching up a wound with Bodhi?

Of course! I had so much fun with this one! Thank you for the request! <3 I hope you enjoy!

“That might have been the longest shower you’ve ever taken.” You said, flipping to the next page in your book without looking at him. 

“Got a little side tracked.” Bodhi said, shutting the door behind him. 

“Doing what?” 

“Getting rid of the body.” 

Your heart stopped. 

You shut your book and sat up, laying your eyes on your boyfriend. 

He was leaning against the doorframe, casual as ever. For a second you thought he looked fine. Until your eyes caught the bruising along his jaw. Then the way he was cradling his side. 

And then the blood. Thick and red, trailing between his fingers and down the hem of his white shirt. 

“Bodhi, you’re -” You were already moving, the book forgotten, your heartbeat loud in your ears. “You’re bleeding.” You reached him in two steps, hands shaking as you pried his away from the wound. 

He had bleed through his white shirt, and flinched when you touched near the bloodstain. You let one hand drift over his uninjured side, grounding him, grounding yourself, while your other hand lifted the edge of his shirt. 

He flinched again, but didn’t stop you. Instead Bodhi grabbed your hand, holding it tight in his as you looked at the cut. It wasn’t that deep, but needed at least two stitches. 

You frowned up at him, rolling his shirt up so it would stay above his wound. “This needs stitches. Why didn’t you go to the infirmary?” 

“It had been over an hour,” he said quietly. “I knew you’d be worried if I was gone much longer.” His voice was matter-of-fact. Like it was obvious. Like your panic had been inevitable. 

Godsdamnit you loved this man. Even when he was infuriating. Especially when he was infuriating. 

“Bodhi Durran-”

“Would it make you less mad and more impressed if I told you I fought them off naked? Impressively, I might add.” 

You blinked. 

He was giving you a tentative grin. The kind that usually meant trouble. 

You took a deep breath, counted to ten, then spoke. “Did you knock any of them out with your dick?” 

His smile turned to a frown. “Well, no. That’s only yours to touch.” 

Heat flooded your cheeks. He was right, but still. “Take your shirt off and lay on the bed before I’m the one who attempts to kill you.” 

He didn’t argue. Just peeled off his shirt, jaw tightening with a wince. You didn’t miss the way his breath stuttered. 

While he eased back against the pillows, you knelt beside the bed and pulled out your first-aid kit, thankfully still stocked with what you’d need to patch up your stubborn, brave, reckless idiot of a boyfriend. You grabbed the chair in your room, pulling it up next to the bed. 

You prepped the needle with unsteady hands and an even more unsteady heart. You hated this part. Watching your friends’ backs, wondering if each night was the last. You hated knowing that at any second someone could appear and try to kill them. Kill him. They’d almost done it again tonight. 

You didn’t even notice your hands were shaking. Not until Bodhi caught one and held it. 

You exhaled, giving his hand a soft squeeze. “Sorry,” you whispered. 

He shook his head. “Why are you apologizing? You’re not the one that tried to kill me.” A beat. Then, with a crooked grin: “Yet.” The grin faltered into a grimace as you dabbed at the cut.  

“I’m sorry I wasn’t there.” You tried to keep your tone light. “Might have to start joining you for showers. You know, just for safety.” The smile you offered probably looked as fragile as it felt. You moved the cloth away and got everything ready to start the stitches. 

“I wouldn’t object to -” A hiss left his mouth as you pierced his skin. “-that at all.” 

You frowned, loathing the sound of pain in his voice. “You know if you’d gone to the infirmary they would’ve had something better to numb you with.” 

“Yeah,” he murmured. “But I’d rather feel a little pain with you than none with them.” 

His words wrapped around your heart and squeezed. You felt the flush rise to your cheeks, warm and helpless. “You can’t sweet talk me out of worrying about you.” You muttered, finishing up one stitch and moving on to the second one. 

“Trust me,” Bodhi winced again, and you fought every instinct to reach out and touch him, give him comfort. You could do that as soon as you were finished patching him up. “I know that’s a lost cause.” 

It was, but Bodhi was as much of a lost cause when it came to you. 

He’d always made light of things, but you knew how hard he worried. How deep that worry ran, even when it wasn’t warranted. There was a time last year when you were waiting on Bodhi to get back from a mission and Xaden had joined you. You couldn’t remember how now, but the subject of making mud pies when you were children got brought up. Xaden had somehow convinced his younger cousin that they were chocolate instead. 

You were in tears from laughing when Bodhi had arrived, and within seconds he was yelling at his cousin.

You’d never seen that before. Not from him. He thought the world of Xaden, but he also thought that Xaden had made you cry. 

His utter embarrassment after he realized you were crying from laughter was adorable. 

You finished up the last stitch, tying it off and putting everything back in its place. As soon as you did, you leaned over his hip, brushing a soft kiss against the newly stitched skin. “There you go,” you murmured. “All better.” 

Bodhi reached for your hands, tugging you up on the bed with him. “What about right here? It hurts too.” He said, tapping the bruise on his jaw. 

An actual smile tugged at your lips, “Oh, forgive me.” You said, and pressed a lingering kiss against his jaw. “Anywhere else?” You murmured, letting him tug you even closer. 

“I think I might have gotten hit in the mouth,” he said, nuzzling your nose with his. “It’s all kind of blurry . . .” 

You let your smile grow. “Well, I better be thorough, just in case.” Then you leaned in and kissed him. 

The kiss was soft. Slow. You poured everything you hadn’t said into it. Every terrified thought that had come into your head when you realized you could have lost him tonight, and every ounce of relief that you hadn’t.  

Bodhi was the one to pull away first, smiling like the whole world had narrowed to you. “See?” he said, voice low. “The Healers couldn’t have done that for me.” 

You let out a quiet laugh, pressing your forehead to his. “You’re insufferable, Bodhi Durran.” 

And godsdamnit, you wouldn’t have him any other way.

[justmymindandstuff]

Reassurance (Bodhi Durran x Reader)

My first time posting for Fourth Wing!! I'm currently reading Onyx Storm (almost finished), and I am just obsessed with the gorgeous Bodhi Durran. He is like Xaden but... not emotionally constipated?? Anyways, I think Bodhi's character is super interesting and I have a lot of ideas for him, so I'm thinking of turning this into a series of connected one-shots. Let me know what you think! And if you have any recs for Bodhi fics please please please let me know :)

Pairing: Bodhi Durran x Reader (no use of Y/N)

Summary: Bodhi is struggling with his new signet. Who better to reassure him than his loving girlfriend?

Word count: 1.3k

*****

It was difficult to focus on History homework when your boyfriend was gods-knows-where with Professor Carr, being forced to channel to the edge of burnout. But here you were.

Bodhi had manifested his Countering signet two months ago, and Carr was relentless - always demanding training sessions in between classes or after dinner. Being in separate years, in separate wings, you barely saw him enough as it was, and the constant worry about his safety was seriously grating on your nerves.

But finally, nearly three hours after he left to meet with Carr, Bodhi knocked quietly on your door and slipped inside, your wards letting him in instantly. You were out of your chair in a heartbeat, scanning over him intently as he closed and locked the door behind him. 

He looked wrecked. His usually golden-tanned skin was pale and wan, contrasting sharply against his crumpled black flight leathers. Your heart ached when you noticed the slight shake to his fingers as he slid the bolt home and the way his entire frame sagged with exhaustion as he turned to face you. 

“Hey, gorgeous.”

The crack in his hoarse voice had you striding immediately forwards to pull him into an embrace, though you smiled against his neck. Even tired and drained, of course Bodhi would greet you with some light-hearted flirting. You buried further into his arms, gladly accepting some of his weight as he slumped against you, his own arms wrapping tightly around your waist. He inhaled deeply, as though grounding himself in your familiar scent, and you realised you were doing the same.

You let his comforting presence slowly wash away the anxiety that had been weighing you down for the last few hours, before eventually stepping back. Bodhi didn’t let you go far though, keeping his arms locked around you as you tenderly brushed his curls away from his forehead.

“Hey, handsome,” you replied at last. He smiled at that, but it quickly turned into a grimace when he tried to lift a hand to your face. He dropped it back to his side with a wince.

“Sorry love,” he said, “my arms feel like noodles right now. Carr made me channel until I couldn’t lift them anymore.”

Gently, you stepped out of his hold and pulled him to sit at the edge of your bed.

“Let me help,” you said, giving him a quick kiss before carefully removing his flight jacket and the tight black shirt underneath. He watched with fond amusement as you shamelessly admired his naked torso, your eyes following the swirling rebellion relic up his toned arms before skating down his muscular chest and abdomen. Fuck, it was unfair for him to be this attractive.

With a slight shake of your head, you redirected your focus, motioning for Bodhi to lie down. He did so slowly, stretching out on his stomach with a low groan. A moment later, you climbed onto the bed as well, moving to straddle him, your knees bracketed on either side of his waist. Warming your hands with your own signet, you began to massage the muscles in his upper back and shoulders, knotted from hours of channeling. 

Bodhi was quiet at first, merely letting out grunts or sighs as you worked at particularly sore spots. Perhaps it was your soothing movements, or the fact that he didn’t have to look you in the eye while he talked, but after a while, Bodhi was opening up in a way he rarely did. Certainly not with anyone but you.

“I just don’t get it,” he was saying, the words muffled by the blanket his face was buried in. “Everyone else gets these cool, useful signets and I’m left with something so… boring. I always thought I was going to become a powerful rider. Xaden’s right-hand, his general. But countering is like the absence of power.”

You frowned as you listened to Bodhi disparage himself, unconsciously digging your fingers deeper into his muscle until he hissed. 

“What are you talking about?” you asked, genuinely confused, “You’re the most powerful one of all of us.”

The boy tensed beneath you before turning slowly onto his back, his hands coming to settle on your hips to hold you in place above him. 

You couldn’t help but smile once he’d rolled over, his soft curls falling messily over his honey-brown eyes. Exhaustion still lingered there, and his jaw was still tight, but he at least seemed a fraction more peaceful than when he’d first come knocking on your door half an hour ago. 

“How do you figure that?” he asked softly. “You are a fire-wielder for Dunne’s sake. Xaden shadows can choke a room full of people and Garrick can put someone on their ass with a single rush of air. I mean, gods, Imogen could wipe all our memories and we wouldn’t even know! Compared to all of that… Countering is nothing.”

It broke your heart to see Bodhi like this. He was usually so calm and composed. So self-assured. And while you knew he didn’t mind being in Xaden’s shadow - following his older cousin's orders without complaint - it couldn’t be easy. He dedicated himself to being dependable, capable and strong. But sometimes he needed a gentle reminder that he was enough just as he is.

You leant forward, supporting your weight on your left hand by his head as your other cupped his cheek, coaxing his gaze to yours. He needed to see your confidence in him. Your unshakable belief in him.

“Countering is one of the most powerful signets there is, because you can go up against anyone. Sure, my fire might be able to melt an ice-wielders’ weapon, but shadows beat fire every time. Garrick might be able to blow an impressive stream of air, but he’s practically defenseless against an earth wielder, and Imogen’s limited by touch.” 

Bodhi looked as though he was about to argue, but you gripped his face tighter in warning.

“You are limitless, Bodhi,” you said firmly. “You can go up against anyone and render them useless, whether they’re a first-year metallurgist or General Melgren himself. I’d say that makes you the most powerful wielder on the Continent.”

A beat of silence. Bodhi just looked up at you, his lips parted slightly and those alluring dark eyes swirling with too many emotions to name. 

Maybe you’d said the wrong thing. Maybe you’d missed the point he was trying to make.

Sighing softly, you let go and began to pull away. But Bodhi moved like lightning, one of his hands moving to hold your wrist in place. His other hand tightened on your hip, his fingers splaying against your lower back. 

“I- Do- Do you mean that?” he whispered, so quietly that you had to lean even closer to catch it. 

You skimmed your thumb over the smooth skin of his cheekbone, marvelling that this gorgeous man was yours. You wished he could see himself the way you saw him.

“Yes,” you whispered back just as quietly. “And even without your powerful signet, you are one of the strongest, bravest, most skilled riders in the quadrant… You’re incredible, Bodhi Durran.”

His eyes fluttered shut at your words, and the hand on your hip slid around to your lower back, pulling you even closer. You happily moved forward until your forehead rested on his, and his eyes opened again at the touch, full of so much adoration and reverence it made your breath catch.

“I love you,” he breathed.

Your heart soared, but before you could respond, he surged upward, covering your mouth with his. His lips were soft but insistent against yours, and you hummed in contentment as he released your wrist to slide his hand through your hair, tilting your head to give him even better access. 

“I love you too,” you murmured onto his lips.