mysticaldeanvoidhorse

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Forged in Love

Hephaestus x Aphrodite!reader

Page break credits @firefly-graphics

Master list

Part 13

Taglist: @streets-in-paradise @stitchattacks @sarai-ibn-la-ahad @metalblindbitch

Taglist open :)

A few weeks had passed, but you had spent little of that time with Hephaestus.  He was kept busy in his volcano and you were kept busy with new company.  Ares came to visit you a few times and you had walked the marvelous halls of Olympus.  It had been really nice, he hadn’t been his usual, conquering self and genuinely seemed to want to get to know you and hear what you had to say.  It relieved the stress of your upcoming nuptials, knowing everyone had an opinion and everyone tried to talk to you about it.  No one understood why you were marrying him, and with the constant doubt coming your way, you wondered why you were too.  Getting past your feelings for Hephaestus, you kept wondering why this had to happen.  Maybe you wouldn’t have gotten to know him the same way, or at all, given his reputation for being a recluse, and with your growing friendship with Ares, you wondered if this was the right choice.  It didn’t help that you couldn’t talk to Hephaestus.  You had always felt comfort and understood talking to him, but he wouldn’t return your attempts to see him, and you couldn’t help but feel abandoned.  You were getting overwhelmed with all the noise, you felt like you were drowning.  And who was there to pull you out?  Ares.  You appreciated him now more than ever.  You had begun to see him as your savior.

      Athena, ever the analyst, had told you it wasn’t a good idea to spend so much time with Ares, or to trust him given your long history.  She said there was no way he could change that much and even Hermes had said it was surprising and uncharacteristic.  This was a voice you listened to because he was always so checked out to this kind of situation, so for him to notice must mean something.  But Ares was so kind, and had turned into everything you had wanted.  Sure it felt too good to be real, but who else did you have?

     “I am just saying this isn’t a good idea.  You are going to piss off Hera and Zeus; it looks like you are undermining their authority.  You are so close to your wedding, and you spend all your free time with an old flame?”  Athena had told you, yet again.

“I am not doing anything wrong.  I am just spending time, there is nothing romantic going on.  And wouldn’t I be the one who would know if there was?”  You had retorted.

“Maybe, but that doesn’t mean we don’t see romance just because we aren’t the goddess of love.  You are vulnerable to love given who you are, and he comes in, right after he gets rejected, right before you are to be with someone else, and suddenly becomes the perfect man for you?  It just isn’t right.”  Athena pressed.

“I love you ‘Thena, you know that.  But maybe he really has changed.  And besides, you have no evidence otherwise.”

“I know what he is like, and I know he plays games.  This is a type of war, war for you.  War for his honor.  And he is losing.  He doesn’t lose.”  She warned.

“Then who do you suggest I spend my time with?  You have been busy with Zues, advising him on the latest human war or politics or whatever they are dealing with now. And Hephaestus won’t talk to me.”  You had said with a note of desperation.  “Sometimes I wonder if he doesn’t want to go through with this union.”  You whispered.

“Of course he does.  Anyone can see his feelings for you.”  She said, in that matter of fact way.  You appreciated her logic, but sometimes you wished she would be more emotional.  You were night and day sometimes.

“Then why won’t he talk to me?  Why is he ignoring me?  If he is already ignoring me and doesn’t want to form a relationship, why would that change AFTER the union?  Isn’t love supposed to fade afterwards?  At least for humans that’s how it seems to work.  In this moment, right now, leading up to our union, should be our most joyful time.  So full of love.  But it isn’t.  You know why?”  You asked rhetorically, and she mercifully said nothing.  “Because he does not love me.  He is fulfilling whatever it is he needs to his mother by agreeing to this.  This was never about love.  Why am I supposed to suffer without love? Hera is the goddess of marriage, why would she condemn me to a marriage like her own?”  Athena was the only one you could speak so brazenly about the high Queen to.

She took a moment before responding.  “You are the goddess of love.  You want passion, fire, heated romance.  It is your nature.  Hephaestus has been exiled his whole existence.  He has never known such love or acceptance.  You gave it to him immediately.  It might be overwhelming for him.  He clearly cares enough to let you in; you are one of the only gods who have ever been into his domain.  No small thing.  He has opened himself up to you the best he can.  You must be patient with him.”

“But how can we ever make a relationship work if he won’t even talk to me?  Much less see me?” 

“He doesn’t communicate with anyone except his cyclops on a regular basis.  They are coarse and unrefined.  You are delicate and a breath of fresh air.  He is learning.  But you can’t expect a change overnight.”  She said softly.

“I don’t even know if he will show up on our wedding day.  As far as I know, I will never see him again.”  She smiled slightly.

“Good to know that you still care if you do.  I hear the hint of sadness and desperation for him.  You love him.”  Did you?  You hadn’t let yourself think about it, knowing you were in love, and knew it dangerous to give your heart so easily again.  You had cared for Ares before when you were young and temperamental, and that had caused you great pain given who you were.  But Hephaestus?  He was nothing like what you had imagined love would be for yourself.  He challenged you in his quiet and strong way.  He forced you to look at things differently, to be more cautious and wise.  To see things not as just butterflies and rainbows, like cute romance was.  This was the version you always preferred, but he had quietly shown you all the aspects of love and emotions.  He had done it without you realizing; he knew exactly how to say things and get you to look at the parts you chose to ignore.  He helped you grow.  And in that moment you realized that was exactly what love was.  Not just emotions, but actions and how compatible partners should be.  He was the unlikely hero, but your hero nonetheless.

     You were quiet for a few moments, realizing all of this.

“Athena, I love him.”  You looked up to her, and she just smiled that shrewd smile.  Of course she had known.

“Yes, you do.  And if you give him time, he will realize he loves you too.  But he is unfamiliar with love so you have to be patient.”

“What if he never realizes that?  What if he never truly loves me?”  This was the worst fear you had held, in your core.  Not to be loved.

“It might not be on your timeline, but he will.  And he will make it known.  You don’t give him enough credit.  But I can tell you right now, that Ares will never love you like you want, or how you deserve.  He doesn’t know the meaning of the word.”  She scowled at this.  “He is destruction, upheaval, and misery.  THAT is his nature.  Whatever game he is playing now, that is not his true character.  He mimics you.  Yet another war tactic.  Make your enemy vulnerable, show that you are and then when they are weak, you attack.  You must realize this.”  The last sentence was almost a plea.

     You had a hard time believing this, as seeing anyone show love or caring was your vulnerability.  Especially given your history with Ares, you had always been blind to him.  Athena knew you weren’t ready to see this so she simply gave you a hug, and whispered, “Please don’t ruin the good thing you have been gifted by throwing it away on a man you know will never put you first.”  She kissed your cheek and left.  You had a lot to think about.

  A few days later, Ares had come by for another walk.  You had begun to enjoy your exercise with him.  It helped to distract you from the emotions raging a war inside.

“Hello Aphrodite, darling.  You look as beautiful as ever.”  He greeted, with a kiss on your hand.  He had been doing that recently,  little physical things that made you feel cared for, seen, even loved.

“Hello Ares, you flatter me.”  You couldn’t help batting your eyelashes.

“Not at all, I simply am stating the obvious truth.”  He gave you that grin that used to send shocks of fire bolting through you.  But it didn’t this time, or any of the times you were together.

“I heard that there might be war brewing in the mortal realm, is this true?”  You asked.  Athena had confirmed it was inevitable the last time you had seen her.  She had been so busy trying to advise Zues, which meant mostly trying to keep him from doing anything stupid - a full time job.

“It is”  You couldn’t miss the excitement in his eyes.  “But you shouldn’t concern yourself with such things.”  He turned and gave you a smile that you would give a child.  This had always bothered you, even when you were young.

“And what, pray tell, should I concern myself with?”  You couldn’t help the bite in your voice.  He was unphased.

“Why your upcoming nuptials of course.  They are still on, are they not?”  He turned to look at you.

“And why would you ask such a question?”  You knew your wedding was still the hottest gossip on Olympus.  Which was saying something given that the gods had nothing better to do than focus on drama.

“Well darling, it is well known that you have not seen your groom in some time.”  He purred.  “Is there trouble in paradise?”  You could tell he was fishing, and not so subtly.  He probably thought he was, however.  He had always underestimated your abilities to understand more than just the latest fashion trends, and anything else a ‘girl’ should be focused on.

“And if there was, I don’t see how it would be any of your, or anyone else's business.”  You stopped walking to look at him.  He turned around to face you when he had stepped ahead.

“Well, I just don’t see how you are with him, is all.  The match makes absolutely no sense, even if Zues did put it together.”   Even Ares wasn’t stupid enough to openly say he thought Zues was dumb for this decision.

“And what match would be better?”  You countered, getting annoyed quickly.  He had been mercifully quiet about your wedding in the time you had spent together.  This was the main reason you had enjoyed his company, you had realized.

He scoffed.  “Well you and I”  He had said as if it should have been obvious.  It was your turn to scoff.

“And why would that make any sense?”  You had said, the facade of his kindness wearing off.  You were beginning to see him for what he truly was.  What Athena had warned you about.  You silently berated yourself for not listening to the sage advice of your wise friend.

“Aphrodite, darling, you and I have a history.  I am the strongest god here, apart from Zues” He said that last part quietly, as if out of obligation, not out of truly believing it.  “You are the prettiest goddess.  It just makes sense.”  He said as if explaining something so obvious it was frustrating to have to even say it.  You hated the condescension.

“A brute of a god can never understand how to love the goddess of love.  You have never truly cared for me, you just hate that you are losing something that never belonged to you.”  You were angry now.  Every upsetting emotion and feeling he had ever given you rushed back.  You couldn’t believe you had let him ensnare you again.  You had never said anything to him and you were glad you finally did.  Even if his rage was just barely contained now.  He looked around quickly to see if anyone was around to witness.  No one was, so he stepped closer with more confidence.  You didn’t back down, even if he was a little frightening.  You forgot how deep his fury ran.

“You do belong to me.”  He said through gritted teeth.  “Even if you are a stuck up goddess with nothing of value in your head.  You are pretty and look good hanging off my arm.  And I will be damned if you ruin that for me.”

“For you?”  You almost shouted. “Nothing about my marriage to Hephaestus has been about you, and it never will be.  You are the most arrogant bastard, Ares.  I have never been, nor will I ever, be yours.”  You wanted to slap him but refrained.  He had hit your insecurities and it had stung.  You turned to leave, tears burning your eyes but you managed to keep them unshed.  He growled as you turned, and grabbed your arm roughly and forced you to face him.  You yelped at the pain but before you could say anything, he had forced you into a searing kiss.  You had used to wonder what it would be like to kiss him, and now that you had, you just felt disgusted and wanted to wash your mouth with soap.  You fought against him, but he was so much bigger and stronger than you so it was futile.  Eventually you kicked him where it hurt most and his grip faltered.  You took a few steps back, where he couldn’t touch you.

“You bastard!”  You screamed.  “How dare you force yourself on me?  You are nothing but a brutish dick!  You have nothing of value to offer any goddess.  You are the LAST god I would ever tie myself too!  If you EVER try that again, I will rip your balls off!  You will never have a friend in this court again!  I will ruin you!”  You shouted, the tears falling as you ran away.  How could you have been so stupid to believe he had changed?  He was archaic and an underdeveloped caveman.  Just like Zues’ prototype before he created the humans.  

     You didn’t stop until you had reached Athena.  You burst into her chambers, barely seeing her through the blur of tears. She looked up alarmed,  rushing towards you.  You barely were able to get a word out, sobbing.  After some time you had calmed down enough to tell her what had happened.  She saw red, but didn’t let you go.  She would deal with Ares later.  Her friend came first.  Neither of you noticed the third party who witnessed everything.

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Men use “I’m just a man” to cheat on their wives. Odysseus uses “I’m just a man” to kill, slay and torture people to get back to HIS wife. They are not the same.

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Forged in Love

Hephaestus x Aphrodite!Reader

Page Breaks credits @firefly-graphics

Masterlist

Part 12

taglist: @streets-in-paradise @stitchattacks @sarai-ibn-la-ahad @metalblindbitch

taglist open :)

After the party the next few weeks went by very fast.  You had hardly talked to anyone regarding the wedding which was surprising since that was the biggest news on Olympus.  You hadn’t even had a chance to talk to Athena to hear her wise advice.  And you found yourself surprised that you missed Hephaestus, as you had not seen him since that night.  You wanted to talk to him, but you also didn’t want to add to his insecurity, thinking you had cold feet.  The truth was you were having cold feet, but did you have a choice?  Did it even matter?  You were thankful for your choice in groom given the options, but you still were being  trapped in a marriage.  You were mulling these thoughts for the thousandth time, when you ran into someone.

“I am sorry, I didn’t see you.”  You looked up to find none other than Ares.  You fought the urge to roll your eyes.

“The fault is entirely mine. I should have seen the most beautiful woman walking from a mile away.”  You gave him a polite smile.

“You should be careful, someone could hear you and you know how that ended the last time.”  You referred to the mortal war that involved all the gods.  You were still recovering on Olympus from it.

“It is already proven, what is the harm in stating the truth?”  He said amused.  You just smiled.

“You do not seem yourself, Aphrodite, might it be the upcoming nuptials?”  You stiffened at that.

“What makes you think it has anything to do with my wedding?” you tried to not seem offended, or that he knew exactly what you were thinking.

“Because I know you, Aphrodite.  We used to be pretty close.”  He frowned slightly at that.  “I wish we were still close.”  It was the first time you had seen him sound genuine.  

“We did.”  You agreed to the first part, ignoring the second.

“But then you pulled away and I tried harder to keep you close, but I guess that is what pushed you away.”  He said sadly.  Not in a way that was manipulative, but in a resigned, thoughtful way.  It was the first time you had seen this side to him and you weren’t sure what to do with it.

“You know, this is the first time that you have seemed genuine with me.”  You ventured.

“I suppose I didn’t want to show you my weak side.  I am the fierce god of war.”  He smirked, something flashing in his eyes.  You just smiled at his comment.  “I would really like to spend time together again.  I know you are busy with your upcoming nuptials”  He said that part sarcastically, causing you to roll your eyes.  “But I miss my good friend.”  He smiled his debonair smile and it stirred old feelings inside you.  You had cared deeply about him back in your younger and immature days, and you were reminded why you were once so close.

“I would like that too.”  You told him.  If he was genuinely trying to be a decent being, and wanted to show you another side to him, a more loving, personal side, why would you, the goddess of love and emotions, say no?  What could go wrong?

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Forged in Love

Hephaestus x Aphrodite!reader

Page break credits @firefly-graphics

Master list

Part 11

Taglist: @streets-in-paradise @stitchattacks @sarai-ibn-la-ahad

Taglist open :)

Unfortunately all good things must come to an end and you were forced back into the party.  Though you had tried to stay near each other it hardly worked out that way with everyone trying to talk to you and him obsessed with the gossip.  You wanted to roll your eyes and walk away but knew it wasn’t an option.  Luckily at some point Athena had saved you but only for so long.  Zeus had made an announcement that the wedding would take place soon.  However, soon for gods can mean human years, after all, they were not bound by time.

“Congratulations”  You smiled, turning around to the familiar voice.

“Thank you Artemis.”  She lifted her glass to you and downed the rest of the contents.

“I am just glad it’s you and not me!”  You both laughed, knowing Zeus would never force her into a marriage and she would be the only one able to get away with telling him no.

“I don’t know, I definitely see a marriage in your future!”  She snorted in disgust.

“That’s what father said which is why I did my best to take the vow of eternal maidenhood.  I much prefer running with my ladies hunting than even being here at a party much less stuck in a marriage.  No offense”  She gave you a wry smile.  You just chuckled.

“No offense taken.  We are very different in that.  I am excited to be married, but running around free sounds nice too.”

“I know it does, but it sounds like you liked the idea when Ares was your suitor.”  She stuck her tongue out in fake disgust and you couldn’t help but laugh.

“I am very lucky that Hera intervened.  If she hadn’t, I might have taken off with you!”

“That would have been fun except I know you and you would soon hate it.”  You wrinkled your nose, knowing it to be the truth.

“The floor has no appeal for sleeping on, I'm afraid.”  She merely smirked.

“You are lucky our queen favors you.” She frowned a little at that.  It was obvious the two didn’t get along and you didn’t feel the need to expand on that part.

“She was the one who suggested Hephaestus.”  You offered.  Hardly anyone knew the details but you didn’t see the harm in telling her.  If anyone got upset Zues had backed up the idea and that would be the end of the dispute.

“Is that so?”  She seemed shocked then amused.  “I didn’t know that she even talked to her son..”

“She thought it would be a good match.”  There was no reason to say every detail.

“And she was right.”  Artemis smirked.

“Yes.”  You couldn’t help but smile and blush.

“I just hope you remain happy.  I know that I would never be happy with marriage but it all seems so fast.  I know who you are and I mean no offense but I don’t want you to jump into something then hate it.  After all, eternity is a long time.”  She looked at you knowingly.  You paused to look at her.  You knew it was being rushed but you were happy.  Weren’t you?

“Thank you Artemis. I appreciate your concern.”  And you meant it.  You knew she didn’t mean anything bad, but it was rushed and it looked like it.   She nodded and walked away, most likely to find her twin.

     This left you to think by yourself.  You had feelings for Hephaestus that was certain.  Was it love?  You weren’t sure yet.  Could it grow to love?  You were confident it could.  But does that mean that it would last?  He was the only one who understood you but your worst fears were coming to the surface.  Would he get bored of you?  Would you always have love and attention?  Or would you be forced to live a loveless life like Hera?  You couldn’t be sure, this was all happening so fast….

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

I was a needy woman, it seemed. And when it came to him, I take from him as much as he was willing to give me. And then perhaps I'd beg for more

-the Spanish love deception

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

We're just a few inches apart, and I know if I look up at him I'll feel things. I don't want to feel things for him

-It Ends With Us

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Together Always

Gally x Reader

The Maze Runner

Part 3

That night Gally didn’t sit by you at dinner. In fact you didn’t see him until almost time for bed. You were going to walk toward the hut but he came out of nowhere yet again.

“Can I talk to you for a second?” He asked shyly. He led the way to a private space.

“What is it?” You asked without malice. You knew that he was a complicated person and whether or not you were mad, you couldn't show it otherwise he would never open up.

“I wanted to apologize for today. I shouldn’t have yelled at you. I was worried for you and I got scared you would get hurt, then you fell….” He let out a breath.

“I am sorry that I scared you. I just wanted to fix something and show you that I can do the job. I am not very strong or overly handy with the tools and this was something I could do so I wanted to help. I knew it wasn’t very safe but I knew I could do it.”

“And I appreciate that. But there are plenty of projects you can help with like that which won’t require you to do anything too dangerous. I can’t have you getting hurt. Not on my watch.”

“That wouldn’t look good for a keeper if one of their people got hurt, I get it.” You mused, trying not to sound hurt.

“What? I mean yes that wouldn’t look good but I could give a shuck about that. I can’t let you get hurt, that terrified me today. The very idea that you could even potentially get hurt, I just panicked.” You saw the fear on his face and you couldn’t help but smile.

“Careful Gally, someone might think you care.” You teased softly.

“I do care.” It was your turn to be shocked. “You are my friend, right?” He asked so hopefully it almost broke you.

“Of course we are friends, Gally. Good friends I hope.” You both let out a sigh of relief.

“I really am sorry.”

“I forgive you Gally. I hope you can forgive me too.”

“Of course,” He said quickly.

“It really is sweet that you care so much” You said without any trace of teasing.

“I do care. A lot. And that scares me too.” He said, brushing a piece of your hair out of your face, his hand lingering on your skin.

“I care a lot too. And it is scary, but that doesn’t mean we have to be scared.” You whispered. He just looked at you, then your lips. You held your breath as he leaned in. You did too. So close, then,

“I am glad you are okay and we are okay.” You were disappointed that he didn’t kiss you, but you knew that he needed to figure out his feelings as he moved slowly and didn’t know how to let people in. But you would wait. He was worth it.

A month later, you had figured out a routine; you helped the builders but that wasn’t your job. In fact you were more like a floater helping out wherever needed you most. You mostly stayed with the builders but not permanently not wanting to give Gally a heart attack so you would help Newt or Frypan or whoever else depending. You liked moving around as you liked hanging out with your friends. The month flew by, and you and Gally were friends but nothing else happened. It was hard but you knew if he wanted to make a move he would and it would have to be him to initiate. You would just be ready whenever he did.

Another month, another Greenie. The poor kid was terrified and it reminded you of your first day. You helped Newt show him around though you noticed Gally didn’t like it. He never said anything but you had gotten to know him well enough to read him. That night the poor Greenie didn’t know what hit him. Literally. It was his turn to fight Gally. You encouraged him, telling him you had done it too. He seemed surprised at that. Inevitably Gally won, and he came up to you immediately after. Your opinion was the only one he cared about. You knew he would win, and when you handed him his glass of his special drink, you ‘cheersed’ him.

“Congratulations”

“Poor kid isn’t that big. Hope he can make it.”

“He seems sweet.” Gally bristled at that.

“Still small and not that strong. You have to be tough here.”

“That’s true, but no one bet I would make it, and I am surviving.”

“Yeah but you are strong.”

“And I made friends with the right people.” You bumped against his arm. He just blushed at that.

“True. You wouldn’t have made it without me” You just rolled your eyes.

“Wow, and he’s humble too.” He just laughed and somehow you ended up with your arm around his waist and his around your shoulders. You couldn’t say that you hated the development.

“I can’t say that I am happy that I taught you how to joke around.” You said, looking up at him. He just smirked and leaned down to whisper in your ear.

“You know you love it.” It sent chills down your spine.

“Hey love birds! Give it a rest for two minutes, would you?” Minho shouted from across the fire, causing everyone to look at you both. Your cheeks turned red and you turned into him, as a safe place. You had no idea just how much he loved that. To prove that, he pulled you closer and said,

“You’re just jealous, Minho! Besides, we would probably have a lot of girls coming, you just scare them all away” The boys all laughed at that, probably too hard, as they all had had a few jars full of Gally’s concoction. He held you close and whispered in your ear. “Want to get out of here? I need to show you something.” You just looked up at him and gave a confused smile. He smiled confidently, and pulled you away, grabbing your hand and never letting go.

You neared the hut where everyone slept but he stopped you.

“You have to close your eyes.” You just looked at him skeptically. “Trust me?” He asked, stepping closer.

“Always.” You looked at him. He blushed and had you turn back around. He then covered your eyes and walked you the rest of the way.

“Okay you can open your eyes.” You opened them and saw that there was a building you haven't seen before.

“Is this the secret project you have been working on?” You asked, turning around to face him. He just looked at you sheepishly.

“Yes.”

“You finished?” You asked, getting excited.

“Yes. Want to see the inside?” You lit up and grabbed his hand, walking inside.

“Wow, it's beautiful!” You said, seeing the small room that was a mini house. It had a bed, bathroom, and small amenities. “You have been working so hard on it. It turned out amazing!” You said turning back around to see him.

“You really like it?”

“I do! It’s beautiful. And you worked so hard on it.” He had been working after hours on a secret project for the month and had gotten some of the other builders to help, but no one would tell you what the project was.

“I wanted it to be nice. And I wanted you to like it.”

“It is, and I do.”

“Good. Because it’s for you.” You stopped. He looked nervous, but you had heard him right.

“Are you serious?” You couldn’t believe it.

“You needed a space away from all the other guys.” He placed a protective hand around your waist. This had been a topic for awhile. You had gotten a space in the corner but it was far from perfect.

“So you built me my own space?” You wanted to cry.

“Yes,” He said, blushing. You just grabbed onto him and hugged him tightly. It wasn’t your first hug, but it was the most special. He held you back just as tightly, afraid it wasn’t real.

“I can’t believe it. Thank you so much, I don’t deserve this. Or you.” You said the last part with a blush.

“Other way around sweetheart.” You looked up into his eyes at the nickname. Neither said anything, you just held his face and he held your waist. After a moment he leaned in, and you held still, not wanting to scare him away again. He got close then whispered.

“I wanted to give you something. Show you that I care. I know that I don’t come across well, that I seem tough and that I don’t have feelings but the thing is, with you, I have too many. I really care about you.” This was the most open and honest he had been and you were so thankful.

“I don’t need anything, but I appreciate it. You are a person who has feelings like everyone else. I might be the only person who knows that but I do. Like I said, I don’t need anything, I just need you.” With that he closed the distance and kissed you. It was amazing. Definitely worth the wait.

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Forged in Love

Hephaestus x Aphrodite!Reader

Page Breaks credits @firefly-graphics

Masterlist

Part 10

taglist: @streets-in-paradise @stitchattacks @sarai-ibn-la-ahad

taglist open :)

Zeus had decided to throw a party to announce the engagement, to which Hephaestus greatly protested. You had thought he would almost cancel the wedding due to his disagreement with the party, but you had convinced him that once you had the party, and the very public wedding, he would be free to go back to his work, uninterrupted save by you. You had decided to walk in together, once the party had begun so that everyone would see. This would cause a stir forcing Zues to make his announcement. You both knew how much he liked to drag things on for the dramatic flair.

The party day arrived and you both were nervous. He had cleaned up, putting on a nice suit, not hiding behind his cloak. You had appreciated that he didn’t cut his hair, you liked the length, how it fell to his shoulders, dark and beautiful. He caught you staring with an amused eyebrow raised. You blushed.

“You look very handsome tonight.”

“Well I am getting engaged.” You laughed.

“You are already engaged.”

“Am I? I don’t remember asking.” You gave him a confused look. He just smirked.

“What is that supposed to mean?” He just grabbed your arm, tucking it into his.

“Let’s go. We wouldn’t want to be late to our own party.” He led you up the stairs to the doors.

“I’m sure you would hate missing out on a big event.” You teased, rolling your eyes causing that elusive smile to form on his face. You loved to see it, especially to be the reason it was there.

You both took a deep breath and entered the big hall. All eyes were on you, well, all eyes on your intertwined arms. You both kept your faces stoic and focused on walking to the base of Zues and Hera’s thrones. Zeus had a devilish grin and Hera had on a tight but approving smile. It was more than you thought you would get.

“Welcome, Hephaestus, Aphrodite. We were wondering if you would make it.” Zeus said, slightly irritated but appreciating a grand entrance. He stood in between you both as the crowd gathered around.

“Welcome gods and goddesses, I am sure you are wondering what the surprise party is for. Well wait no longer!” He then went on about something you weren’t paying attention to, trying to subtly look at Hephaestus and find your friend, Athena.

“And it is with pleasure that I announce the union of Hephaestus and Aphrodite!” The crowd was shocked into silence for a moment but quickly came to their senses knowing they needed to cheer. It was a bad idea to not seem like they approved the word of the king of the gods. At this time you caught Athena’s smile and she was very encouraging in her applause and approval. You slightly smiled, knowing it was your place to appear stoic for now. Zeus joined your hand with Hephaestus and you instantly felt calm. He had that effect on you. You slightly squeezed his hand and he reciprocated, and you could feel some tension leave him. When you walked down he never let go of your hand, though you got interrupted by the crowd showing congratulations. As much as you tried, you couldn’t hold his hand forever, as the crowd moved you two away, but you knew that you would find him as soon as you could. Athena had been very excited and you had talked for a while until Hera had come up to you.

“Congratulations” She smiled.

“Thank you, my queen.” You bowed, showing the proper protocol.

“It seems almost everyone is taking it well.” She mused. You frowned slightly.

“Almost everyone?” You weren’t naive to think everyone would be overjoyed, everyone would have an opinion.

“Just remember, no matter what you do, everyone is watching, you can’t escape notice. The trick is to do the best thing for everyone so that war can be avoided. We are fickle creatures.”

“Hence my betrothal in the first place.” She smiled wryly.

“Precisely. But remember, just because this marriage will be blessed, does not mean others will not want to harm you.” As if on cue, Ares made his way over. “Just be careful.” She whispered the last as he came over and barely bowed to her. Very rude and unacceptable but would be accepted as Zeus would not do anything if he knew. You were upset for her.

“My lady.” He said to Hera.

“Hmm” was all the acknowledgement she gave.

“Aphrodite.” He turned to you.

“Ares” Was all you gave him.

“Might we talk?” He was upset.

“We are talking.” You tried to sound as pleasant as you could, speaking with great charm.

“I meant alone.” He was lucky that another god had come to talk to Hera, as that statement alone was bold enough to incite violence.

“What is it that you need?” You continued speaking with charm, knowing it would calm him down, at least a little.

“You are engaged.”

“Yes.”

“To Hephaestus of all gods.”

“Yes.”

“What on Olympus possessed you to do that? Are you that unwell?” Now you were upset.

“Whatever do you mean? This was arranged by the king and queen.” knowing that would knock him down a peg, and it did. A short lived victory.

“But I had offered my hand, surely you knew that.”

“I had heard, yes.”

“So what is the problem?” He was confused, upset, and his ego bruised. You knew you had to be careful.

“There is no problem, Ares. There doesn’t need to be a problem.” You stared pointedly. “Please enjoy your night. And I will enjoy mine.” You made to move, but he grabbed your arm, forcing you to look at him.

“This isn’t over.” He said, threateningly. You steeled yourself.

“If you have a problem, bring it up with Zeus. He is the one who approved the match.” You yanked your arm away, only to stagger into a very strong, solid chest. Arms wrapped around you to steady you, and you immediately relaxed, knowing who your savior was. You looked up at him only to find him and Ares staring at each other. The fire in the eyes of your betrothed returned, but different; in a way you knew could start a war. You just grabbed his hand and led him away. He pulled you outside, near a beautiful arrangement of flowers. You knew Demeter’s, or perhaps Persephone’s, hand was here.

He had placed your back into the corner, hiding yourselves behind the flowers.

“Are you alright?” he asked, intensely, not mad at you.

“Yes. I knew Ares wouldn’t be happy, but I never expected him to lay hands on me. I am unsure now whether it is a good idea to be around him in the future.”

“It is never a good idea to be around him.” You just released a sigh.

“It’s a good thing I am not marrying him then.” You looked up at him and his eyes softened.

“It is a good thing for me.” This caused you to blush.

“I must ask you something.” He seemed a little nervous.

“What is it?” You were confused.

“Well, this whole arrangement is backwards.”

“What do you mean?”

“Men still go to each other to arrange a betrothal, but we are gods. Zeus did not ask anyone for permission to marry Hera, neither did Poseidon. And I doubt Hades will if he ever marries.”

“What are you saying?” You asked softly.

“I am saying, as the son of a queen, I should be able to ask my intended goddess to marry me.” Your mouth fell agape.

“Even shocked you are beautiful.” He said so softly you almost didn’t hear him. He then grabbed your hand and got down on one knee. “This is the way the humans have proposed, and I think it a nice idea.” You continued to stare at him, unsure what to say.

“We didn’t have a choice, really. We are asked but not in a way where there was a choice.” at this you frowned. “However, I know my choice, and this way we can do it properly, in a way that is our choice. To that end, will you marry Aphrodite? Knowing you have a choice.” His smile held fear behind it. You thought it was so sweet that he would be nervous, knowing your answer no matter the circumstances. He then pulled out the most ornate ring you had ever seen. It somehow combined volcanic ash, no doubt from his mountain, and yet was so dainty and elegant, everything you stood for. The rock in the middle was both diamond and swirls of fire. You could tell he had put a lot of thought and effort into this. It touched you deeply.

“Oh Hephaestus” You murmured. You just stared at it. The kindest gesture anyone had ever done.

“Will you give me an answer, Aphrodite?” He said kindly, reminding you that he even asked a question. You then looked into his eyes, the fire there matching your ring.

“Yes, of course I will!” You practically squealed. He chuckled. The most melodious sound, you thought. He put the ring on your finger and picked you up, twirling you around. You just clung to him.

“You have no idea how much that means to me, really. No one has ever been kinder.” You hoped your facial expression showed him just how much you meant it.

“You deserve every nice thing.” He stated meekly.

“And this ring! It is wonderful! How did you ever come up with the design? It must have taken you a long time to make, and you didn’t even have to!” You gushed. He blushed.

“I figured you should have something as beautiful as you. To show that we want this and are not being forced.” You melted, knowing he was listening to you that this was a fear of yours. “I thought it combined a little of both of us, beauty and fire.”

“You put a lot of thought into this. It means so much.” You told him.

“You deserve much more than that, but it is a start.” He shrugged. You cupped his cheeks.

“You are amazing. Too good for me.” He melted into your touch.

“It is the other way around, but I am glad you think so.”

“I am so thankful I ran into you that night.”

“Me too.” He confessed. And with that, he leaned down, wrapping you in his arms placing a soft kiss on your lips. For someone so hard, you were surprised how soft he was being with you. It made you feel something almost foreign knowing he chose to let his walls down for you. Now to be worthy of his vulnerability. For now you focused on the most amazing kiss two beings of any kind ever gave each other. And as the goddess of love, you knew this to be true.

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Together Always

Masterlist

Summary: Gally took a liking to you immediately when you arrived though he would never admit it.  You knew there was something about him that intrigued you too, but you didn’t think he would ever feel the same, so there is no reason to admit your feelings either..right?

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

Part 10

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

You know what kills me?

How often Patroclus wants to feel like he is making Achilles proud completely unaware that he already is, untill that will to prove himself claims his life.

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

the fact that i'm no longer the same age as the protagonists of novels and films i once connected to is so heartbreaking. there was a time when I looked forward to turning their age. i did. and i also outgrew them. i continue to age, but they don't; never will. the immortality of fiction is beautiful, but cruel.

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

She wanted him to be her home with a fierce longing. But when has wanting ever been enough?

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

She didn't want to open up to him. She couldn't, wouldn't. The pain was too raw, too real. She didn't want him to make it worse. She didn't want him to make it better

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Rihanna said it best:

It's too close for comfort

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

Together Always

Gally x Reader

The Maze Runner

Part 2

     You had been there a week, and had spent a few days at each job trying to figure out what you would do.  Today was the day you would be working with the builders.  You couldn’t help but be nervous, not knowing if you were any good at it but mostly hoping you would be able to impress Gally, or at least not embarrass yourself in front of him.  You had found that you wanted to impress him more than the others and though it was early, you knew you were having feelings for this particular Keeper. You knew that wasn’t a good thing, knowing it wasn’t a good idea to have feelings for any of the boys but especially this one; mainly because you knew he would never feel the same.  He was so closed off and hardly seemed to notice you even existed.  However that would change since he would be overseeing you today.

     At breakfast, you went to sit next to Newt, who quickly became your closest friend.  You realized everyone liked him and you weren’t surprised at all.

“Hey Newt,”  You greeted, sitting down across from him.

“Hey Y/N, ready to try out a new task?”  He asked.

“Not really, I feel like I will somehow mess up”  You laughed, trying to hide your nerves.  The truth was you weren't nervous about any other task, knowing if it wasn’t a fit you would find something else.  This particular task had more at stake.

“You’ll be fine, besides Gally won’t let you do anything too stupid. He is pretty good at making sure everyone stays safe.”  As if appearing out of nowhere, Gally had just shown up.

“Talking about me, Newt?”  You quickly turned to see him standing next to you.

“Yep, just reassuring your mentee that you won’t let her screw up too badly.”  You shot him a bored look.

“Nah, I’ll make sure she doesn’t hurt anyone.  Mostly worried she will hurt herself.”  You couldn’t tell if he was completely joking or not.

“Hey, I am not that bad!”  You faked being hurt.

“Guess we will see.”  Gally smirked at you.  His intense stare still had you weak in the knees and you were glad you were sitting down already.

“Guess you will have to keep a close eye on her.”  Newt said, though you were too busy to see him and Minho exchange a knowing look.

“I guess so.”  Gally said, not breaking eye contact.  

     After breakfast Gally had brought you to the worksite that was surprisingly farther away from the main area than you had expected.

“We will start with something small.  Do you know how to use a hammer?”

“Honestly, I don’t remember ever using one, but I think I have the main idea.”  You wanted to be honest, but also didn’t want to look dumb.

“Cool, well, take this nail, and hammer these two boards together.”  You grabbed the hammer.

“Are you going to watch me do it?”  You asked, when he folded his arms and stared at you.

“Yes.”  Was all he replied.  You just rolled your eyes and did as he asked.

“How did I do, boss?”  You said sarcastically, knowing you had done a decent job.  Afterall, it wasn’t rocket science.

“Just making sure you’re competent.”  He said, grabbing the hammer from you.

“Wow, with compliments like that you might make a girl swoon.”  You joked.  He just stared blankly at you.  “Geeze, tough crowd.”  You said lightheartedly.

“Follow me, we will work on something a little harder.”

“Sounds good.”  You said, following him.  You wanted to be his friend at the very least and you could tell you weren't off to a great start.  You would just stick to talking only when necessary.

     The rest of the morning went well, and you were proud of what you were able to do.  Lunchtime came and you walked over with the rest of the builders, minus Gally.  He continued to finish what he was working on.  You admired his work ethic.

“How did the morning go?”  Newt asked once he sat next to you.

“Not too bad, I haven’t created any major calamities yet.”  You joked and he laughed.

“I don’t think Gally likes me that much though.”  You confessed and he looked at you surprised.

“Why do you say that?”

“I think I am a nice person”  You started.

“Obviously.”

“But I don’t think my jokes or efforts to reach out are well received.”  Newt seemed to think about that.

“Why do you think that?”

“Well he just seems like he tolerates me at best, and seems like he can’t get away from me fast enough.  So I just decided to not talk so much.  Just do what I am told.”

“I think he just doesn’t know what to say.  He has always been a little awkward like that, but especially with a girl around his whole personality changes.  He isn’t a bad guy he just is rough around the edges and you are trying to break those walls down.. I don't think he knows what to do with that.”  You thought about that.

“I guess that makes sense.  I just don’t want him to not like me.”

“And why is that?”  He gave you a knowing look.

“What do you mean by that?”  You asked a little too defensively.

“It just seems like you are trying hard to be on his good side.”

“Well of course.  He is my boss for the day so I want to make a good impression.” You reasoned.

“Well I don’t think that is your problem.”

“Then what is?”  Before he could reply, you saw Gally walking up to the food line, subconsciously grabbing his shirt to wipe his face.  You were not upset by the glimpse of his abs he granted you with the action.

“You okay Y/N?  Looks like you got a little drool there.”  Minho teased you.  You turned red.

“Shut up Minho.”

“Oh someone is a little defensive,” he joked.

“It’s just because you didn’t give me the same show, so I had to look elsewhere.”  You joked.

“I know you are in love with me, I am sorry I am driving you into the arms of another man.”  He faked seriousness.  You gagged causing Newt to laugh.

“Aren’t you supposed to be in the maze?”  You asked.

“Yes, but Alby needed something today so I am here, lucky you.”

“You’re a runner right?”  He nodded.  “So run along then.”  You rolled your eyes.

“Sounds like you are annoying our Greenie here.”  Gally said behind you.  Shuck this boy was more stealthy than you would like.

“Nah, she can’t get enough of me.”  Minho joked.

“Not convincing.”  Gally said, sitting next to you.  You were not upset that he had taken to sitting next to you since you arrived.  At least that was what you let yourself think since you couldn’t be sure he didn’t always sit here before you arrived.

“More like I get too much of this guy.”  You said to Gally.  He smirked.

“Ouch, that really hurts.  And you just said you were in love with me.”

“When did I ever say that?”  You deadpanned.

“Well, when you were ogling Gally, you said it was only because - ouch!”  Newt hit him.  Your eyes went wide.  Gally turned to you.

“What is he talking about?”  A look of amusement on his face.

“Do I ever know what he is saying?”  You played off, not able to keep looking at him.

“That’s true.”  He said, not entirely convinced.

“Minho just saw you with your shirt lifted and tried to play it off as me looking and not the fact that he was checking you out himself.”  You joked.

“Well that makes more sense.  I knew Minho had less than honorable intentions towards me.”  You stopped and looked at him.

“Was that a joke?  Did I actually hear your joke?”  He gave a sheepish smile.

“I guess so.”

“Well I am glad that you are finally able to joke around me.  I thought I was annoying you with my sense of humor.”  You said half seriously.  He leaned over slightly.

“Not at all, I enjoy it actually.  I just don’t always know how to respond.  No one is as happy and lighthearted as you, it is something to get used to.”  You just looked at him.  “I don’t mean that as a bad thing”  He said quickly.  “I just am not a funny guy, not like Minho or even Newt.”  He said the last part a little bit harsher.

“You don’t have to be.  Then you wouldn’t be Gally.”  You smiled at him and he smiled back.  “Besides, I am just glad that I haven’t freaked you out.”

“Did you think you had?”  He asked.

“Well, kinda.  I mean, whenever I joke around, you just look at me like I have grown two heads so I thought you figured I was crazy.”  You played with the food on your plate, hoping to hide your nerves.

“There’s something different about you.”

“Well I am not a guy, there’s that.”  He rolled his eyes.

“Obviously.  Besides that.  You are so refreshing around here.  You are a light in the dark…”  He trailed off.

“You think so?”  You prodded, softly.

“You’re pretty great, Y/N.”  You took a moment to stare into his eyes.  He was so beautiful it hurt.

“But that can’t be a shock, everyone here likes you a lot.  A little too much”  He slightly frowned at the last part.

“I’m just glad you like me.”  He looked at you, trying to find a lie but he didn't and wouldn’t.

“Yea- yeah. You’re a good friend.”  He smiled and backed away slightly.  You tried to not be hurt.  You should just be glad at how much he opened up to you just now.  He may never feel the same, but at least you knew he didn’t hate you.  Progress.

     After lunch you went back to work, and you ended up helping some other builders while Gally got called away.  You found that though you weren’t incredibly strong, having smaller hands and being able to fit into tighter spaces helped in more ways than you thought.  However, that got you into more dangerous scenarios, like the one you found yourself in.  There was an old building that needed a plank fixed and there weren’t any ladders nearby.  So to help you were ‘volun-told’ to get up onto a 2x4 and reach awkwardly to try and fix the beam.  As long as you didn’t overreach you would be fine.  You wanted to help and show them that you could do whatever they could, if not more since you were the only one small enough to reach.  You took a deep breath and climbed up.  It wasn’t incredibly high, but if you fell, it would hurt.  You managed to stay focused, asking for the tools you would need from one of the boys behind you.  You were almost finished when you heard it.

“What the shuck is going on here?”  Uh oh.  Gally.

“She could fit, it needed to be fixed.”

“Not that way!  No one should be up there like that, especially her!”  You quickly finished and handed the tools back to whoever would quickly take them.  Gally came up under you.

“What are you doing?”  He half yelled.

“Trying to fix this beam.”  You told him as calmly as you could.

“Why are you on a flimsy board and not a ladder?  That shuck thing won’t hold you.  Get. Down. Now!”  He sounded panicked.

“It’s okay Gally, I am finished, I am getting down now.”  You tried to tell him reassuringly, but because you were distracted your foot got caught and you slipped.  You managed to stay right side up, holding onto the board. Shuck it, the only way down was to let go.  So you did.  You expected it to hurt, but you landed in some strong arms. Looking up you saw it was Gally.  You couldn’t appreciate being in his arms because his face was fuming.  If steam could come out of his ears it would.

“Are you shucking kidding me?”  He wasn’t really asking.

“Gally, I am sorry but I thought I could fix it quickly.”  

“I don’t need to hear excuses.  You should never have been up there in the first place.  On a flimsy board, not even tied down, no ladder.  What were you thinking?”

“I fixed it, I am okay, I-”  But he cut you off.

“You weren’t thinking.  Use that shuck head of yours, you could have gotten yourself killed!”

“I wouldn’t have died, Gally.  At worst, a broken arm or something, but that didn’t happen.”  You tried to remain calm but your patience was wearing thin.

“That’s because I caught you.  You need to think!  You are smarter than that.”  He said the last part no longer yelling.  It was at this moment you both realized that he was still holding you tightly.  He slightly released his grip but not enough to let you move away. “Are you hurt?”  He asked.

“No.  And the beam is fixed.”  He didn’t say anything, just kept looking at you with those beautiful eyes.  After a second, “Everything is fine.  The beam is fine, I am fine. You are fine, right?”  You asked after a second, putting your hand on his chest.  His heart was beating fast still, but he had calmed down slightly.

“You’re asking if I am alright?  After you fell?”  He asked incredulously.  You just shrugged.

“I could have hurt you, and you seemed pretty upset.  Just checking you are okay too.”  He couldn’t seem to process that.  He just nodded once.   “Okay, well I am going to let you calm down and put away my stuff.”  You pushed him back slightly and he held onto you for a second before releasing you.  It was quitting time and you wanted to be anywhere but there.  You didn’t know what just happened, but you didn't like being yelled at by Gally, especially in front of everyone after doing him a favor.

     After you walked away, Gally knew he messed up.  He was really concerned and he didn’t know where these feelings came from.  And it scared him.  But what scared him most was the idea that you could have gotten hurt.  And it would have been his fault, on his watch.  And he would never forgive himself for that.  But he yelled at you and he hated himself for it.  His feelings for you were intense and they scared him.  He just hoped he hadn’t scared you away.

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

No you'll never be the man that you always swore

But I remember you singing in that '88 Ford

-I remember everything

(Kasey Musgraves)

[mysticaldeanvoidhorse]

It is not such a hard thing, is it - to die for your friends

-Empire of Storms