#& shane has always been an enigma but then she sees the look in his eyes once he holds eye contact

[specialbluehens]

i'm thinking abt if/once shane becomes more involved in jas's life (trying to do better by her & stuff) that at events her & vincent will tire themselves out & shane will pick jas up (she's sleeping or almost asleep) & make eye contact with jodi or kent holding a sleepy vincent & it's just. silent understanding.

[mandoalorian]

hi can i get a dio one shot where his gf is kinda little miss perfect like she always listens and never breaks the rules and her parents are always pressuring her to do really good but as she keeps hanging out with him and his friends she becomes more of her own person and she comes out of her shell more and starts liking the things he likes and maybe she stands up to her parents after they say he’s a bad influence for her ???

The Bet [Dio x F!Reader]

Author's note: Anon asked for a one shot but they’re getting a three part mini-series instead. 🖤 this is for all my lovely nonnies who have been asking me to write for Dio.

Warnings: mention of food and drink, brief mention of alcoholism, cigarettes etc

Word count: 2000

Masterlist

"You've been staring at her all day," Raven groaned, stabbing a curly fry into her pot of ketchup and shoving it in her mouth. "Just go talk to her."

Dio shuffled around uncomfortably. "I can't." he frowned, narrowing his eyes in your direction. There you were, sat at the cafeteria table alone, your head deep in a book. You'd left your lunch to one side, hoping to get back to it once you finished this chapter.

"Aw, does Dio have a crush?" Raven cooed teasingly, fluttering her eyelashes.

"Shut up," Dio retorted quickly. "You have ketchup around your mouth."

Raven's smile quickly faded as she pulled out a compact mirror to check her appearance. Dio went back to watching you. You were beautiful, and he just didn't understand how the world around you seemed to ignore you. He could somewhat relate. Although he had his group of friends, he still felt like an outcast. But you were always alone, your head in the clouds or stuck in some book. As far as he saw, you didn't even have friends. You spent your days cooped up in the academic library, studying or doing your homework.

"Pointless staring," Ash rolled his eyes, but Dio just swallowed, trying to dismiss his comment. "You could never get a girl like her."

Dio finally turned to face Ash, and even flicked a glance towards Raven who was still wiping ketchup from the corner of her lip, about to reapply her black lipstick. "I could get any damn girl I want." Dio folded his arms across his chest.

Ash hummed, scrunching up his nose. "Sure kid, whatever. If that's what you chose to believe."

Dio scoffed incredulously and leaned over the table. "You tell him Raven! I could get any girl!" 

Raven didn't look up from her mirror once. "Sounds like he's challenging you, Dio."

"Is that true?" Dio hissed. "You're challenging me?" his voice was sour.

Ash nodded his head and picked up a curly fry from Raven's plate. "We're all still up for getting wasted in the park tonight, right? Dio, if you can get ‘little miss perfect’ over there to join us, I'll take back what I said."

"That's ridiculous," Dio shook his head. "She's not gonna come with us. Sometimes I don't even know why I bother going with you guys," Dio looked back over to you— you really were little miss perfect; with the perfect smile and glistening eyes. When Dio looked at you, it was like nothing else mattered. The whole world turned into a blur, only, he could just about make out Ash's chuckle in the background. "Fine. I'll do it." Dio frowned. He knew if he didn't at least give it a shot (or better yet, succeed), he'd never hear the end of it from Ash and Raven.

Dio threw the crust of his sandwich back down on his plate and pushed his tray to one side before standing up. He brushed down his outfit, trying to make himself look somewhat presentable before speaking to you, and sauntered towards you. He could practically feel Ash and Raven's eyes burning into his back from the other side of the cafeteria.

"Hey," Dio greeted, clearing his throat and sliding down on the unoccupied seat across from you. You looked up from your book and your eyes met with his. "I'm Dio— I'm uh, I'm in your science class and math class. You might not know me but-"

"Trust me, I know you." you shot back before you could even let him finish. You turned a page in your book and pretended to seem uninterested. It was difficult though, because the mysterious boy with jet black hair and pierced ears was for some reason giving you the time of day. You— out of all people. You usually had good intuition and you felt in your heart that there was something not right about this interaction.

"What are you reading?" Dio asked curiously, peeking over to try and get a glance of the pages.

"1984." You mumbled back.

"Oh I love that book!" Dio exclaimed with a grin as he kicked his feet back on the table, knocking your dinner tray slightly. Now that comment made you look at him.

"You've read 1984?" you raised your eyebrows in disbelief.

"Well, read… watched the movie… same thing really," Dio shrugged and you couldn't help but giggle. He was adorable— and slightly dorky which was something you hadn't expected at all. "It's about how there's someone always watching you…"

"Yep," you nodded in affirmation and pointed towards the table where Dio was once sat at. "Kinda like how your friends have been staring us out since you came over." you waved at them awkwardly. Raven avoided eye contact, looking back down into her bowl of curly fries.

"Shit, I'm sorry about them," Dio sighed, running his fingers through his hair. "The truth is, Ash bet I couldn't pick you up."

"Why would he bet that?" You asked, sliding your bookmark into the novel and placing it down on the table. You suddenly felt vulnerable but at least Dio was being honest with you.

"Because, I can't stop thinking about you," Dio shrugged helplessly. "And I want to get to know you better. Would- would you be opposed to that?"

You thought for a moment, and then shook your head. Elated, Dio smiled and scrawled down his phone number on one of your napkins. No person had ever shown you any interest, and now one of the school's most intimidating guys wanted to ‘get to know you better’? You'd be foolish to lie to yourself anymore and pretend like this wasn't something you'd thought about before. You'd caught glimpses of him at the back of class, you'd try to repress a smile every time he quipped a sarcastic comment back at a teacher or distracted the class from their work.

He wasn't the type of guy you ever imagined ending up with, but you were still intrigued by his enigma. Dio might've only recognised you from science and math class recently, but you'd known him since preschool. Before he dyed his hair, got all those tattoos and piercings. He even used to live in your neighbourhood, before his dad died and he had to move. You'd heard stories about him since then, about how he'd ‘gone off the rails’. But he still seemed nice enough. Truthful, and he still had that sparkle in his chocolate coloured eyes that you remembered from when he shared the sandpit with you in elementary.

The napkin with his number on weighed you down until you got home. You placed it on your dressing table and sat down. It was staring at you— begging for you to call. You sighed, giving into the temptation and rang the number. After three rings, Dio answered.

"Hey, it's me." you said quietly, nervously biting your lower lip.

"Oh hey! I'm so glad to hear from you. I was beginning to get afraid that you wouldn't call." Dio admitted sheepishly, scratching the back of his neck. You overheard some chattering in the background.

"Are you busy?" you wondered out loud.

"I'm just with Ash and Raven. We're having a few beers in the park. You're more than welcome to join us."

You winced at the thought of joining them for beers in the park. You'd barely took a sip of champagne at your aunt's wedding, nevermind drinking bottles of beer with the most intimidating group of teenagers in the whole town.

"Oh I don't know Dio…" you mumbled.

"Hey, you don't have to do anything you don't want to. It'll just be nice to have your company— and I promise, we don't bite." you considered his words and sighed.

"Okay Dio, I'll be there in half an hour. Text me the address."

"Got it," Dio grinned. "See you soon."

Ash chuckled as Dio hung up the phone. "We don't bite?" Ash quoted Dio with a smirk. "Oh, she's really that innocent huh?"

"I want you both to behave," Dio warned. "Don't scare her away." 

You looked at yourself in the mirror, wondering if you should change your outfit to something maybe a little more alternative. You wanted to fit in with Dio and his friends, after all. However, you remembered Dio has come to you, interested in you just the way you were. And you swore that you weren't going to change yourself for anyone. You combed through your hair and grabbed your favourite pink lip gloss— one that you wore only on special occasions.

Your mother came in just as you were applying it. "And where do you think you're going?" she snarled, raising an eyebrow as you puckered your lips.

"Out with some friends." you shrugged nonchalently.

"What friends?" she questioned you further, her voice was highly strung and she stood with a hand on her hip.

"You remember Shane Morrissey from preschool?" you asked nervously. "Well- he goes by Dio now, and-"

"No." your mother narrowed her eyes. "That boy is nothing but trouble. Ever since his dad died and he and his mother got evicted, I've heard that he's turned to a life of crime. A petty thief. And his mother? An alcoholic."

You scowled at your mother's condescending and judgemental attitude. "You don't know him." you retorted, crossing your arms over your chest.

"And I'm not sure you know him either." your mother snapped back.

"I'm going whether you like it or not," you huffed, standing up and grabbing your jacket. "You can't shelter me your whole life." 

Before your mother could even reply, you bolted out the house and ran down the street. Luckily, it wasn't too cold, and the address to the park was only a ten minute walk from your home. You spotted Dio, Raven and Ash almost immediately. The trio were sitting on a small grassy patch.

You sat next to Dio and tried to engage in conversation, although you weren't really familiar with the things they were talking about. Dio helped you out though, taking his time to explain things so you understood and he encouraged you to talk about your own hobbies and interests. The second Raven tried to peer pressure you into drinking, you politely declined and Dio whisked you away from them. "Are you uncomfortable?" he asked you in private.

"No, I'm okay, I think," you nodded your head in affirmation. You really didn't want to go home— you were having such a good time with Dio.

"Because if it's too much…" Dio trailed off. "Maybe we can go back to my place?" he suggested. "I know Ash and Raven can be intense. So it would be just us."

Your gaze flicked back to Ash and Raven who were sharing a cigarette and you smiled. "Yeah, okay," you agreed. "I'd like that."

"Good," Dio replied softly. "Let's go then."

Taglists— let me know if you wish to be added!

Permanent: @supernaturalgirl @phoenixhalliwell @ah-callie @luvzoria @stardust-galaxies @wickedfrsgrl @goth-topic @nerdypinupcrystal @wonderfulfluffer @kiwi-the-first @pedroepascal @castiel-barnes @honeymandos @rocketqueen @ladycumberbatchofcamelot @dybalalover10 @girl-obsessed-with-things @elena-myth @moth-guillotine @pedro-pascal-love @hayley-the-comet @pinkninja190 @maxiarapamaya @autumnleaves1991-blog @artsymaddie @harrys-stan @kennedywxlsh @cripplingmoon @cheekygeek05 @mrschiltoncat

[theartificialdane]

Galactica, part 240

In this Fame talks to her husband, Marie Claire is out, Courtney works hard and the twins have a night in.

Thank you @veronicasanders @samrull @toriibelledarling and @imanationalphenomenon for cowriting this chapter with me! <3

Patrick looked up from his laptop, puzzled, as sharp, rapid knocking sounded at his door. “One second!” Patrick stood up to answer it, but he had barely opened the door before Fame stormed into the room in a drunken rage, looking for a fight.

“Alright, where is she?! Where’s the slut?!” Fame turned around, searching the room with her eyes, but she found nothing, which only annoyed her more.

Patrick rubbed his forehead tiredly, trying to decide if he should let Fame be, or if he should stop her, their friends’ words from earlier in the night still stinging. “Fame, sweetheart-”

“I’m serious!” Fame flung open the closet, Patrick’s shirts falling out, and then the bathroom door that was empty too. “Come out, bitch, and face me!”

“Fame, would you please get ahold of yourself! She’s not here.” Patrick locked the door behind him, hoping that no one else on the floor could hear them. “Are you really here to have a confrontation with Shannel?”

Fame whirled around, eyes blazing, just about ready to tear into Patrick, and that’s when she caught a glimpse of herself in the large mirror hanging on the wall. Eye makeup smeared, crazy-eyed, hair a mess, and she started crying. “How did we get here?” Fame sat down on the bed, her world crashing down around her. “How did we become such a cliché?”

Patrick sighed and sat down beside her, his hand on her back, gently stroking her. “Everything will be okay.”

“How can you say that?” Fame took a shaky breath, asking quietly, “We’re getting divorced Patrick, divorced!”

“Fame, I know you’re worried about what this is going to look like, but I assure you, I’m not trying to embarrass you, or hurt your business, or--”

“Is that really all you think I care about?”

He looked up at her again, but she averted her eyes, trying to compose herself, as a tear slipped down her cheek. “Fame…”

She brushed the tear away with the back of her hand. “I care about you. I care about our marriage. I care about the life we built together. Do you?”

“You’re the one who want this divorce.”

“I’m the one who wanted it? Me? Why would you say that? I never wanted any of this!”

“... What?”

“You’re the one who wanted to get divorced Patrick, you’re the one who started it all when you wanted to sell the farm!”

“You threw me out, I figured that was what you wanted.”

Fame could feel the anger well up in her again. How dared he say that? How dared he try to pin this on her when it was clearly him that was in the wrong. “Because I was angry with you. You were going behind my back, planning an affair, even if it was just in your mind.”

“Are you trying to guilt me by calling it an affair?”

“It’s not the kind of relationship we have! How can you think that what you did is okay?”

“So our relationship is only open for you, not me?”

“It’s not /open/, Patrick! This is what you don’t understand! I wasn’t traipsing around town /fucking/ people, I wasn’t having affairs behind your back.” Fame could see that Patrick wanted to interrupt her, but she had more to say, had to finish talking.

“We have rules.” Patrick’s face didn’t change at all, and Fame realized that the rules might just have been hers, and not something she had actually shared with Patrick, her code and her morals only for her, since she was the only one that had ever gone outside of their relationship. “Any time I had feelings for anyone, even if they were purely physical, the first thing I did was talk to you. I was 100% honest with you about it, all the time. When you told me about Shannel, the very first thing you told me was a lie. That’s the difference.”

He looked at her, blinking, for a few seconds. “... Oh.”

“Oh yes.”

“I.. I just didn’t want to upset you or hurt you…”

Fame’s eyes softened. “The truth never could...” Fame turned her palm, gently offering up her hand for her husband, the man that was still her husband, to take. “Did you ever feel hurt? Like I--”

“No… No I didn’t...”

“I love you Patrick, and I always have, I hope you know that...”

Patrick took her hand. “I know.” He smiled slightly. “I was a little insecure years ago.” he chuckled. “But that had more to do with the fact that I was across the country, and the whole thing was new.”

“I know I should have been more patient with you, when you started having...” Fame swallowed, the words making her throat burn, “...feelings for her, but I just, I was just too hurt. I know I handled it badly. I know that.” She hated the idea of her husband with anyone else, but the idea of losing him was even worse, and she had been unfair, she knew that.

“Well...yes...but at least now I know why.”

“I shouldn’t have gone through your search history. I just…” Fame started to cry again, and Patrick wrapped his arms around her, pulling her in. “I wanted to believe that the paranoia was all in my head, and then when I saw it--”

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry…”

“Do you love her?”

“No, but I care for her a great deal… She’s not just a trick.”

“I know she’s not...” Fame leaned her head against Patrick’s shoulder, allowing herself to breathe deeply, inhaling his scent, those familiar arms around her. She could feel herself melting into him.

“Stay the night, please?” he whispered into her hair.

She looked up at him, blue eyes liquid, lifting a hand to stroke his cheek, and replied. “Okay. but only if you promise to come home tomorrow.”

“I will.”

***

/HEADLINE: MARIE CLAIRE STRIKES GOLD WITH THEIR DECEMBER COLLECTION FROM GALACTICA

When you think of the word, “elegance,” what is the first thing that pops into your mind? Probably rich, vibrant colors, a regalness, and a classic style, right? That’s exactly what we thought on the magazine when we flipped open this month’s issue of Marie Claire. You know us, always keeping my eye out for the next “It” thing. While we find most fashion magazines with current fashion trends tend to lean more towards quick fads, it’s a rare that we come across a diamond among rocks. Sea glass among stones. Something beautiful that stands out from the other similar items. The center spread of this month’s Marie Claire features five of the most opulent, rich, and luxurious gowns we have ever laid my eyes on, ever, beautifully accompanied by signature pieces with a more urban flare that stands out from everyone's favorite brand Galactica. While the style of the gowns seemed familiar, there was something we couldn’t quite look away from that set these gowns apart from the other designer garments featured throughout the magazine. Classic. Regal. Elegant. Timeless, and yet, with a modern twist. Violet Chachki, a designer whose work we hate to admit we’re not familiar with, has exemplified all of these qualities with her Winter/Christmas 2016 Collection. But, as we all know, size isn’t everything, now is it? Miss Chachki’s small, yet vibrant, five-piece collection packs a punch, especially with her being so new in the industry. After meticulous research, this fresh-faced designer turned out to be somewhat of an enigma, which isn’t that uncommon for an employed designer at a major brand. I also found, after admittedly doing much digging, that Miss Chachki graduated Valedictorian from Parsons School of Design, along with photos from a few portfolio reviews and presentations. It seems this mystery of a designer has had an eye for creating exquisite, detailed works of art for years. While this designer is still very much a riddle to me, even I have to notice her distinct style. Galactica featured two garments that very much fit her aesthetic - first, the gown worn by Tatiana, Elite's freshest model, and the gorgeous gown worn by also fashion-newbie Naomi. There is no question of how much those pieces wowed the audience! Now, I can only assume that this small collection is just the start of something great. As we all know, in the world of haute couture, collections can have anywhere from thirty pieces to over a hundred pieces involved. Five. That’s it. Five pieces were featured in this center spread. How do I begin to describe this collection? A flurry of gold and red, sparkling hand-beaded details with whimsical lace details delicately placed on glissenette bodices. Vertical and horizontal lines lead your eyes along the garments, allowing the viewer to see new details with every inch of detailed pieces - deep V-necklines, belts that bring in the waistlines and long, flowing skirts add height to the wearer. Basically, it was love at first sight. Violet, Miss Chachki, hat’s off to you. Brava! I can’t wait to see how your work holds up in stores, because I would be honored to get my hands on one of your pieces!/

***

“So, I’m not being negative or anything, but have you considered that most of your staff is Jewish.” Betty looked up at Trixie that was hanging up garland's, the man humming christmas songs to himself.

“Christmas isn’t religious. It’s a time of joy.”

“... I’m pretty sure Christmas is the definition of religion.” Betty mumbled to herself. She almost wanted to move the ladder, just to see if Trixie would actually fall, but she controlled herself as the man hung up baubles all around the edge of the office. Almost everyone was out since Shane was cleaning out the warehouse, all of the designers basically standing on top of each other as they thought for their fabrics with teeth and claw. Betty didn’t care though, as she knew that Shane wouldn’t throw anything of hers out.

“Aaah!”

Betty felt something grab her jeans, little Ivan using Betty’s clothes to pull himself up, Frida right behind. Betty didn’t know when, but somehow the two had become best buds, Frida often napping with Ivan in Trixie’s office, Ivan letting Frida lick his hands whenever he got a snack or treat.

“Trixie, you have a visitor.” Betty hated when Ivan touched her, the little dude somehow always sticky, but as she saw Trixie hurry down the ladder and picking Ivan up, she couldn’t help but smile, Trixie’s love for his son more than evident, even if he was dressed in a ridiculous elf costume.

***

Courtney stood in front of the mirrored closet doors, practicing the choreography that still tripped her up sometimes. She had a gig coming up that was gonna be filmed for Housewives, and was determined not to give the editors any reason to put shady music behind her performance, or cut to someone looking bored. She could hear Derrick’s voice in her head. /Find the accent beats, gurl! Come on! 5, 6, 7, 8! Hip, hip, cross arms, turn, walk, walk, pose.../

She held the pose, marking the spot where the backup dancers lifted her up, and that’s when she noticed Bianca standing in the doorway with a wry smile. She gasped and turned around pulling her earbuds out.

“Sweet Jesus, B, you scared the fuck outa me!”

“Sorry.” Bianca walked towards her, looking not the least bit sorry.

“How long have you been there?”

“Long enough.”

“Well...what do you think?” Courtney rolled her neck, stretching out her shoulders, as Bianca approached.

“Hmmm, well….I think…” Bianca slipped her arms around Courtney’s waist. “One...you’re fucking sexy,” Bianca said, kissing her softly just below her jaw. “And two...you need a break.” She tried to pull Courtney towards the bed but was met with resistance.

“B...I need to practice.”

“You know, you used to be much more agreeable.”

Courtney stuck her tongue into her cheek. “Yeah, well, I used to be unemployed.”

“Fair point.” Bianca traced a design into her wrist. “So how long is this practice going to last?”

“Forty minutes?”

Bianca flopped backwards onto the bed in despair. “You’re killing me!”

Courtney giggled. “I know, babe, it’s so, so hard to not get instant gratification all the time.” She ran her fingers up Bianca’s thigh teasingly.

“See, you understand!” Bianca kissed the inside of her wrist, pulling her close again.

“Tell you what. You be a good girl, and let me finish, and then I’ll give you a reward.”

“What kind of reward?”

Courtney fluttered her lashes. “It’s a surprise. But it involves dress-up.”

Bianca sat up and pushed her off the bed. “Jesus, Courtney, what are you waiting for, finish your damn practice.”

Laughing, Courtney put her earbuds back in and turned back to the mirror. She continued to run through the dance moves, at first feeling self conscious with Bianca’s eyes on her, but then growing more and more confident. By the end, she was covered in sweat and knew the whole thing, even the tricky part, backwards and forwards. She looked over her shoulder at Bianca as she stepped into the closet, pointing to the bedside table and simply ordering, “Blindfold.”

Bianca smiled and opened the drawer, pulling out the blindfold and slipping it on. “Baby, I hope you know how happy dress-up day makes me.”

“I do.”

“So, any hints?”

As Courtney changed, Bianca could hear rustling. After a pause, she answered. “Ummm...well...let’s just say I’m attempting undergarments again.” Another pause. “And I got help.”

“Help from who?” Bianca asked, attempting to keep her voice light, thinking, /Don’t say Adore. Don’t fucking say Adore./

“Raven.”

Bianca breathed out a sigh of relief. “Well, that’s promising…” she chuckled, laying back against the pillows.

“Yeah, it would be great if I could figure out where all these fucking straps were supposed to go.”

Bianca laughed. “Sex clothes are complicated, angel.”

“No shit. Next time I’m gonna make her give me a diagram.”

“Need a hand?”

“No, I think I got it. Yeah, that looks right. I think.” Courtney opened the closet door and walked over to the bed, slowly unbuttoning Bianca’s top.

“When do I get to take off the blindfold?” Bianca whined as Courtney slid off her bottoms, pressing a kiss to her stomach.

“You’re being awfully cranky today, B,” Courtney breathed, crawling over her body.

“Well, what good is dress-up if I don’t get to see it?!” Bianca complained, hands moving up Courtney’s thighs to her ass, where she could feel the crisscrossing straps of her panties.

Courtney pressed a light, teasing kiss to her lips, pulling down the cups of her bra, fingering her nipples until she coaxed out a breathy whimper. “Good point, babe. Okay. Take it off.”

Bianca tore the blindfold off her eyes and took in the sight of Courtney, hovering over her in red, lacy lingerie, ribbons dangling down. A moan escaped her throat. “Fuck me.”

“Alright,” Courtney replied, straddling her, sitting back up with a naughty smirk, grinding down against her.

Bianca arched up, but unwilling to submit entirely, slipped a hand inside Courtney’s barely-there panties and started to play with her clit. The younger girl rolled her hips faster, breathing harder.

“Courtney, did you ever find the black--HOLY FUCK!” Ben stood in the open doorway, hands flying up to cover his eyes. “WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE, WHY DON’T YOU CLOSE YOUR FUCKING DOOR, YOU CUNTS?!” Ben groped blindly for the door, slamming it shut and stomping off down the hall.

“Oops.” Courtney looked down at Bianca with a sheepish expression, giggling. “Do you think I should--”

“Whatever, he’ll be fine. Keep going.” Her finger moved in faster circles against Courtney’s clit.

“Yes, ma’am…” Courtney breathed, leaning forward, eyes flashing. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to displease you.”

“Oh my god, shut /up/,” Bianca exclaimed, rolling her over and taking charge.

Courtney bit her lip. “Sorry…”

Bianca paused and looked at her for a moment. “Well, don’t be like that.”

Courtney groaned, wrapping her legs around Bianca’s waist. “What do you want from me?”

“I want you to want me as much as I want you. If you don’t, then--”

“I do, I just got distracted because my BROTHER walked in. I’m sorry.”

Bianca took a deep breath. “No, I’m sorry. I’m just...I guess I was being impatient and insecure, and--”

“Insecure? You?” Courtney reached up and ran a hand gently through Bianca’s hair. “Seriously?”

“Well, yeah. I mean you used to have nothing but time for me. And lately you’ve been so busy, and I’m happy that things are going so well for you, but I just...miss you.”

Courtney stroked Bianca’s cheeks. “Come here…”

Bianca let Courtney pull her in for a soft, deep kiss, tangling her hands into her blonde hair.

“B, I'm worried…”

“About what, my love?”

“Well, I...I don't know how to get this contraption off…” Courtney whispered, gesturing to her lingerie.

Bianca laughed. “I'm pretty sure I can figure it out.”

***

It was a typical work night for the twins as they sat in the middle of Raja's living room floor; surrounded by contracts, designs, fabric swatches, head shots, empty food containers and several empty bottles of wine. Even though they no longer lived in the same apartment, the duo would still work together sometimes. Sutan had just hung up on Violet, the man gushing at his girlfriend with how proud he was after the article about her in Style Rookie.

“Urgh, do you have anymore wine?” "Of course.” Sutan smiled as he opened another bottle of wine for his sister to share with him. “So now that the wedding is coming up and fashion week not long after that," Sutan poured Raja a glass, topping it up all the way. "How is that going to work with your boss duties?”

Raja sighed, raising her arms over her head, hearing her joints pop as she stretched. "It'll be fine, just like old times at Galactica," she replied with a yawn while piling her hair in a messy bun. "I'll have some additional late nights until fashion week is over and all the paperwork that comes with it. Thankfully Raven, Jujubee and the wedding planner are taking care of everything on that front, so I don’t need to worry too much.” "That makes sense." Sutan said, popping the last piece of spicy fried fish into his mouth. "Awww, that was mine!" Raja whined, as she crossed her arms with a pout.

“You snooze you loose, sister dear.” Raja whined as she reached forward to flick her brother's nose, the brother and sister playfighting, the two almost missing the shadow in the room.

"And just where do you think you're going sweetheart?"

Both of them turned around to watch Raven walk through the living room. The tall Russian beauty wore a minidress and a fur that Raja hadn't seen Raven wear in years, and Raja knew exactly where Raven was going. What normal people called clubbing, drunk Raven referred to as peasant watching.

"I’m going out of course!" Raven said with a smirk as she turned to give them a full 360, before strutting over to where the drunk pair were sitting on the floor surrounded by work. "What are you two doing?" Raven asked as she came to stand in between the drunk twins; which prompted Sutan to start toying with her colorful shoes. “You're wearing ankle straps with tassels and pompoms," he said as he pulled at one. “Are you okay?”

"Is the world about to end?" Raja asked, a smile on her face as the twins teased Raven. "Will you two stop it," Raven said as she bent down to shoo their meddling hands away from her shoes.  "Yes, they are ankle straps, but I'm wearing a mini dress so that's ok with me since it doesn't cut off my leg.” "Rave is weird," Raja muttered as she batted the tassel once more before pulling on it, undoing the shoe. "Rave and her weird ankle straps." "Raja stop that!" Raven squealed as she bent down to re-tie her shoe. "You’re so mean.” "But it's so much fun Princess!" Sutan said in a sing song voice

"Why are you two messing with me!” Raven stomped her foot and whining, even though both of the twins could see that Raven clearly loved the attention. "Because it's fun for us, and we like to see you pout." Sutan started with a smile. "You make this little face and cross you arms," he said as he copied the mannerisms he'd seen her do since the first time they met. "You're so cute when you pout," Raja continued, running her nails gently up Raven's leg, causing her to jump. "Your nose does this little thing and your your voice goes up 3 octaves." Sutan laughed, watching Raja scrunch her face up like Raven's, "and then she starts to pout and frown!" "You two are the worst," Raven said as she took a step back and out of their reach. "What time are you coming back?" Raja asked. "I'm not sure yet?" Raven said as she tapped her chin as if in deep thought, the twins watching her. "Sutan give me $100 because I'm beautiful," Raven said as she held her hand out to accept the money. "You're so demanding," Sutan groused as he leaned over to feel for his wallet, that managed to wedge itself under a couch cushion. "How much again?" He asked as he pulled out a small wad of cash, his habits from the early 2000’s still going strong. "I want $200 please." Raven asked with a small smile, Sutan already counting the money. "But I thought you said $100?" Raja commented, taking the last spicy chicken lumpia. "I did, but I upped it to $400 because I know he has it," Raven replied easily. "It's like she has laser vision or some shit," Sutan said, "Just for that, you're getting it all in $20 bill notes." He continued, counting out the paper notes. "Thanks TanTan and RaRa," Raven said as she bent down to gently caress his stubble with one hand, taking the money with another. "Thank you for the gift Sutan." Raven said. "I'll see you both later, have fun." Raven finished before she kissed them both softly on the cheek and walking out the condo. "You know you just became a human ATM right?" Raja said with a raised brow. "You and Raven are a match made in hell,"

“Toast to that.”

Sutan laughed, the twins continuing their drinking.

[mandoalorian]

Biology [Dio x Reader]

Summary – You are stressed about college applications but by a twist of fate, a boy comes into your life and agrees to help you in exchange for something else.

Pairing – Gender neutral reader x Shane “Dio” Morrissey (No Y/N)

Warnings – general school related anxiety

Word count – 2.2k

A/N: For now this is just a one shot but if people enjoy it please let me know and I can write more! Comment if you would like to be tagged in a possible future update/s.

-

“I’m heading home now,” the high school librarian announced, as she threw the keys in your direction. The clanking of the metal hitting the desk interrupted you from your thoughts. “Lock up.” She ordered you and before you could reply, she was gone. You had stayed late at the school library every night for the past two weeks trying to work on your college applications. You had applied for one of the most prestigious fashion schools in your country and were spending time working on your portfolio, trying to make sure everything was perfected. Every night, however, you found yourself staying late and as the submission deadline neared more and more things were seemingly going wrong. In the dim light, you stared at the computer screen as the brightness stung your eyes. Just then, a crash made you jump out of your seat and run to where the noise emanated from, thinking something had happened to the librarian on her way out. Instead, you saw the silhouette of a boy, clumsily picking up fallen books from the floor. You got closer and went down on your knees, reaching your hand out to pick up a book, but his hand overlapped yours. The contact sent a shiver down your spine and you diverted your gaze from the book, to the boy. He was already staring at you. Your lips parted as you realised who he was and he said your name in a gentle tone. The dim light brought out a sparkle in his eyes which almost made him unrecognisable. “Dio…”

He was the boy in your classes, who sat at the back and didn’t say a word. He was different to the other boys. He wore all black, he had piercings and, you looked down at his hand which was resting on top of yours, noting his chipped, painted black nails. You smiled; he was certainly different. Dio was one to always get in trouble, fighting with people who crossed him wrong or using his smart mouth to back-talk the teachers. You remembered just the other week he had threatened to stab someone. You ripped your hand away from his, remembering the incident and stumbled back to your feet. He stood up with you and you folded your arms over your chest, almost defensively. “Why are you here?” You quizzed Dio. There was no reason for someone like him to be in the school library so late at night.

Dio stood awkwardly, looking at you and looking at the pile of fallen books on the ground. “I- uh-“ he struggled to get his words out. You picked up one of the books and ran your fingers over the title.

“Biology?” You raised an eyebrow.

“I’m failing,” Dio admitted with a sigh. “And, I can’t fail. So I’m studying. I usually just sit in Ms Greene’s classroom every night after school. No one knows I stay back. It’s uh, kind of a secret.”

“No way,” you shook your head in disbelief. “You? Studying?” You panicked slightly, feeling as though your tone might have come off as rude, but he didn’t seem fazed.

“I don’t want to go college,” Dio shrugged. “But I want out of this hell-hole. I want to graduate. I’m already a grade behind because I failed my finals last year. I can’t fail again.”

“You’re a year behind?”

“I’m nineteen,” he told you and you nodded, listening to him intently. He was finally making eye contact with you, and the softness in his look brought you a feeling of safety, despite him being your high school’s intimidating Goth boy.

“Well,” you cleared your throat and changed the subject. “I’m here every night too.” Dio gave you a weak smile and rubbed his feet along the old carpet awkwardly.

“Studying?” he asked.

“No,” you replied and handed him the biology book. He took it and slid it back into its place. He didn’t even want it anymore. “College applications.”

“Yeah? What are you applying for?” Dio asked and you raised an eyebrow at his curiosity.

“Fashion,” you informed him, pointing at the only switched on computer which lit up the corner of library. Dio’s smile grew and you wondered if he was about to poke fun at you.

“Can I see?” He followed your finger and also pointed at your computer.

You hesitated. He probably wanted to sabotage your portfolio... that sounded like a ‘Dio’ thing to do. The awkward silence went on long enough and you gave in, agreeing, and taking him over to your computer. You slid back down into your chair and flicked through the pages of your virtual fashion file. Instead of pulling a seat up, he leaned down to your level, his hand resting on the back of your chair. The distance between you both was very small, you swore you could even feel his breath on your neck. “Ms Cassidy says all applications are due in this Friday and I’m just about happy with my portfolio-“

“-You should be,” Dio interrupted. “This is incredible.”

You paused, dumbstruck by his compliment. Dio doesn’t just give out compliments like that. Especially not to people he’s just met. Hell, you were even surprised he knew your name. “…But,” you continued. “I need this to stand out and be special or else the admissions team won’t look twice at it. Fashion is so competitive. I had this idea. I wanted to do a segment on alternative style but I need a model and I’m not sure if I could find one who fits my image in time. I feel like giving up.” You sighed, exasperated, but he didn’t answer. He was paying very little attention to your words, or even your portfolio. His eyes burned into your face, memorising and taking in every little detail like you were the most beautiful creature he had ever seen. “Dio?” You interrupted his thoughts.

“Yeah?”

You sighed again. “I can’t find a model because no one has that special air of style these days. Everyone is the same. Same is boring. We all want to look the same as each other because… it feels safe.” You shrugged.

“Right,” Dio agreed, shuffling around in his long black leather coat. The noise it made pulled you to look at him, and as you took in his appearance, you were struck with an idea. Dio must’ve seen the lightbulb appear above your head and he laughed.  “No no no,” he shook his head. You didn’t need to verbalise your thoughts, he already knew exactly what you wanted. “Not me. I’m not a model.”

“Please!” You begged, standing up and pressing both of your hands to his chest as you felt the different layers of material he was wearing. His breathing hitched under your touch and he squirmed slightly. “You’re perfect… you…” Your voice trailed off as you imagined the various poses he could do in his different clothes. He was everything you needed; your ticket to get into Fashion school. “Dio.” you pulled your hands away and pressed them together in a praying gesture. “I’ll pay you.” Your voice changed seriously. “Do you have any idea how much I want this?”

“I do… I do…” Dio said, uncertainty still dripping from his tongue. He thought of how much his friends would tease him if they found out he had been out on photoshoots with you. If they knew he was your model. But there was no reason for them to find out, and if it meant he could spend more time with you… “You can pay me. Yeah?” He eventually agreed.

“Yes!” You exclaimed, filled with happiness. “Of course Dio, thank you.” And acting on impulse, you hugged him. You felt him tense up and you buried your face into his chest. After a delay, he wrapped his arms around you. He was warm. You didn’t know what it was, perhaps his strong arms or broad shoulders that made you feel protected. It was crazy. Of course you had seen him around before, but suddenly he had you feeling all these things. “Thank you,” you mumbled. You finally felt like you had a shot at fashion school – a chance. From that moment, you swore he was your lucky star.

Dio had always stuck out in a crowd of high school students with his black gelled hair, kohl eyeliner and multiple piercings around his ears. You were certain he was feared, even by the jocks, but that only drew you in closer to him. He was like an enigma, and in this moment, you had never felt more compelled to discover more of him. Realising your hug probably had lasted way longer than appropriate, you were the first one to pull away. “So, uhm,” you cleared your throat, figuring you should go over expenses. “I can do 30$ for the first hour and if it takes longer… then 10$ for every hour after that.”

“No I don’t want your money,” Dio said, and you knotted your eyebrows together. He wanted more.

Dio knew you better than you knew him. He had been watching you for a while now, taking in your every move. He knew your GPA was above average and that you were worrying way more than you needed to be about college. He had complete faith in you. He saw you every day, laughing with your friends in the cafeteria. He watched you from his seat at the back of the classes you shared with him. He admired how smart you were, and especially how hard-working, something he felt like he could never be. You felt like you would be good for him, a positive influence which is something he knew he so desperately needed. But there was something about you that made him lose his confidence. It was a feeling he’d never felt before which made him question all his motives. He wanted to go out with you, kiss you with hunger and passion. He had done these things plenty of times before and lord knows he was experienced but it was like there was something inside of him that stopped him from making any advances. In the darkness of the library, in the close proximity, he felt the butterflies in his stomach. He felt the spark of electricity when your hands had previously touched. He’d done a lot – been with guys and girls before but the outcome was always the same. Meaningless sex and then never speak to them again. Now, he was suddenly feeling this emotional attachment. A sense of longing.

He wanted to ask you out. He wanted to tell you that he didn’t need your money, he just needed you, and he’d take you right now in the library if he could. He looked around, contemplating his surroundings. He simply couldn’t do it, and yet the urge to kiss you was so strong. “I don’t want your money,” he repeated. “Look, you help me pass biology and that’ll be enough.”

You felt the tension in the air. You wondered if he could feel it too. “Before we start on biology,” your voice was barely above a whisper. “How’s your chemistry?” You intertwined your fingers with his and bit your lip, taking a step forward to him, filling any distance. Dio felt the smirk playing on his lips at your confidence but nervously, you looked up at him doe-eyed. This was the first time you had ever gotten close to someone. Dio lifted his free hand and cupped your cheek, his thumb tracing the softness of your lower lip.

“Good enough for me to know it’s alright to do this,” his voice was dark. He leaned in and his nose brushed against yours. You hummed and found your fingers in his hair as you pushed his face closer. Your eyes fluttered closed as he kissed you delicately. It wasn’t how you had imagined at all. You had seen him around other people; the way he’d push his partners into the lockers and run his hands over their bodies. You’d see people hang out with Dio, and they’d turn up to class the next day with hickeys and love-bites all over their jaw and neck. You imagined him rough, but this felt – gentle. He was passionate and took his time to deepen the kiss. You felt safe in his arms, you wanted to stay like this forever. He was such a good kisser, although him being your first kiss, you didn’t have much to compare it to. When he eventually pulled away so you could both catch your breath, you felt your knees weaken and couldn’t wipe the smile off your face. Dio spoke your name softly and squeezed your hand. “Let me walk you home.” He murmured, to which you agreed, but not before kissing him again.

-

I hope you enjoyed!! Like I said let me know if you want to be added to a tag list and I will write more if people want more. Thanks for reading. xx