#Can we all take a moment to hug Ruby?

[saqui]

It's nice to imagine Oscar saying this to Ruby:

"I know you want to be strong for your friends and I won't let you stop because it is your decision...

but I want you to lean on me. I want to be your shoulder to cry on when you're at your weakest. I want to be there for you when you want to cry. I want you to trust me. I'll be right here if you need someone. It's okay to cry."

Or he says:

"I want you to share your burdens with me."

[starkwlkr]

day in the life of a monaco mama | baby leclerc

inspired by the day in the life of a nyc mom tiktoks :) ruby and théo are aged up a bit here.

Y/n had the bright idea of posting more content to her tiktok account. She had a couple of videos, but that was pretty much it. She would get many comments telling her to post more so she thought of an idea. She had seen those day in my life videos everywhere so she filmed one with Ruby and Mathéo.

“Hi everyone, welcome to a day in my life in Monaco!” The video starts off with Y/n making herself some coffee for her and Charles then cuts to her waking the kids up so they can get ready. Today, Charles is leaving for the Dutch Grand Prix so I got his coffee ready while he helped the kids get ready for the day.”

Y/n filmed Charles giving the kids several kisses and hugs then gave her a kiss and hug before Joris arrived and together they were on their way to the plane. “We try to take the kids to a couple of races, but they recently said they prefer to stay home, hang out with their friends or stay with their grandmère, which doesn’t upset Charles at all.” The voiceover said.

“So after we get ready and eat some breakfast, the kids and I go for a walk to the gardens then we come back to their grandmère’s house and we hang out for a bit.” Y/n filmed the kids waving hello to a couple of people on their walk. Then the video showed Pascale greeting the kids and hugging Y/n.

“When it was time to leave, Mathéo wanted to stay because his grandmère was going to visit some family and he wanted to tag along so him and Pascale left and it turned into a mommy daughter day.” Y/n showed several clips of Ruby running around them posing for the camera.

Then the video cuts to them walking around Monaco. “We stopped for lunch at Ruby’s favorite place called Bella Vita and it’s close to a little playground so if you’re ever in Monaco and with your kids, i would recommend coming here. Ruby loves it.” Y/n filmed Ruby eating a piece of of pizza. The little girl saw the camera then smiled and put up a thumbs up.

“After lunch, we walked around, then Ruby wanted to go to see her papa’s car that’s with the rest of Prince Albert’s collection. Whenever we have time, she always requests to go see it.”

They walked to the museum that held Prince Albert’s collection. Y/n filmed the cars. At one point the video showed Y/n posing in front of Charles’ Ferrari car that won in Spa and Monza. The clip was courtesy of Ruby since she wanted to film her maman at least once.

The video then cut to a couple looking at Charles’ Ferrari that were standing next to Ruby, who was taking a picture with her camera that Charles bought her. The man noticed Ruby and wondered if she knew the history of the car.

“That car won—”

“Monza and Spa. I know, that’s my papa’s car.” She replied to her walked back to her maman.

The woman tried to hold in her laugh, but she couldn’t. The couple watch Ruby wave goodbye to them as her and Y/n walked away to their next destination.

“On our way to the oceanographic museum, we ran into some Ferrari fans that wanted to give Ruby and i some friendship bracelets and coincidentally, Ruby had some on her as well so we traded. Thanks for the bracelets, Amanda and Jade!” The clip showed two girls trading bracelets with Ruby.

“Ruby is going through her ocean phase at the moment. She loves telling Charles and i facts about the ocean at all times and I mean at all times. This girl will sit you down and tell you facts as if her life depended on it.” Y/n filmed Ruby admiring the pretty fish then pointing to her favorite one.

Then the video cut to Ruby trying to pronounce anemone because she was trying to tell her mom a fact about the clown fish. “The anemoney . . anu. . anomoon. . .” She stumbled over her words.

“Anemone.” Y/n clarified, but Ruby still messed up. “That’s okay, you’ll pronounce it right next time.”

“I hope so. I don’t want the clown fish to feel sad because I can’t say it right.” Ruby said sadly.

The video then shows Ruby talking with kids her own age. She, of course, made new friends and even invited them to sleepover at her house. Y/n and the other moms laughed, but did promise a sleepover some other time.

“Finally, we went back home to Pascale’s and had dinner where the kids FaceTimes Charles. Our days aren’t always like this, but I always want to fill our days with something to do.”

The TikTok ended up gaining millions of views, likes, shares and comments. Most of them coming from F1 fans, but she didn’t mind.

COMMENTS

pierresgaszlys I NEED MOREEE

f1elle ruby making friends 🥹

sebsbees imagine trading friendship bracelets with ruby leclerc

cruelsummerstan mathéo choosing to stay with my grandma awww 😭

charlesleclerc miss you!!

danielricciardosupremacy oh to live in monaco and trade bracelets with ruby leclerc 😭🥲

[deadtired-highkeyenergetic]

Hugs

About time I finished this WIP that randomly appeared in my head. I've just finished defeating Cazador and mannnnnn I really really want to hug Astarion and never let him go.

Summary: Astarion learns to hug you.

“Can’t get enough of me, darling?” Astarion purrs into your ear, sliding his arm around your waist to pull you closer. He leans in, pressing a kiss to the tip of your ear before letting his lips trail downwards, sending a shiver up your spine but you push him away, placing a hand on his chest.

“We don’t need to do this.” You shake your head, “I just want you, not your body, not your services.”

He feels his heart jump into his throat, anxiety gnawing at him but he smiles outwardly anyways, as practiced. “Which part of me exactly do you want?”

“All of you,” you breathe. He blinks, surprised as you intertwine your fingers with his, a thumb gently brushing over his smooth skin. The warmth sends tingles from his arm to his body, a fuzzy feeling blooming in his chest that fills him with uncertainty.

Is this genuine love? Is this how love is supposed to feel like?

Why would you want all of him?

He cannot understand why you would want the monsterous side of him, the side that craves blood, the side that is spoken in hushed whispers, woven into stories parents tell their children to scare them into bed. He hides his fangs whenever he smiles, afraid that your gaze will be drawn to them and that they will be all you ever see of him but you never seem to be scared of them, always open to him sinking them into your soft neck so that he can drink the ambrosia that is your blood.

You place an arm around his waist, noticing that distant look in his eyes and press your chest against his, hoping the sensation will bring him back from whatever abyss he’s fallen into and his head snaps up, ruby eyes locking with yours with a look you’ve never seen in them before. You feel his hand tremble as he tentatively rests it on your back and he inhales sharply.

“If you’re not comfortable we can stop,” you murmur. “I don’t want to force you to do anything.”

“You’re…not, darling. It’s just…” He swallows. “It’s nothing.”

You narrow your eyes. If all this time spent with him has taught you something, is that every time he says ‘it’s nothing’ it’s always something.

“Astarion, you can tell me anything, but take all the time you need, alright?”

His lips quirk up for a split second, instinctively sending you a reassuring smile but the smile quickly fades, replaced by a sorrowful look. He gazes at the ground, suppressing the urge to just melt into you. You deserve someone better than him, someone who could love you properly, who understood what love truly meant and didn’t feel disgust rising every time they placed a hand on your skin because of their past. No matter how much he loves you, he’s not the best one for you.

You reach out to him, a hand gently touching his cheek but he pulls away with a snarl, fangs bared and you quickly stumble backwards, surprised at his hostility. His eyes widen when he realises what he’s done and guilt devours him even further. Your touch feels tainted, even if it lacks the usual lust and desire behind it, but that is no reason to hurt you. He forces himself to reach for your hand, muttering a quiet apology as practiced and rests it on his cheek, willing his body to remain still like always.

Doing this should be easy, he’s been doing this for centuries, so why does it feel so difficult now?

You look at him with concern, an emotion usually devoid in the eyes of those who touch him and pull your hand away of your own accord.

“I’m sorry.”

Why were you apologising? He was the one in the wrong, he was the one who had broken the moment, he was the reason the night had turned from one of tranquility to one of tension.

“There’s no need to apologise, love. Shall we continue?” He leans in once more despite the sickening smell that your scent has transformed into. “You’re just that intoxicating.”

Still, you push him away, noticing how he’s zoning out each time he moves closer to you. Worry creases your eyebrows and you take a step back, moving just out of his reach.

“Did I overstep any boundaries?” You ask. “I’m sorry if I did.”

“You didn’t, darling.” He shakes his head. “You’re far too perfect to make such mistakes.”

Far too perfect for him.

“Astarion,” you realise what’s plaguing him. “No matter how long it takes, I will always be by your side. You are my star, my entire world, no one else can possibly replace you or be better than you.”

“I shouldn’t be,” he mumbles. “I only add to your burdens.”

“Well, it’s only fair that you do that since I do the same to you.”

“No you don’t!” Astarion snaps. “Don’t you ever say that about yourself!”

He glares at you, fists clenched, his clawed fingertips digging into his palms. You raise your hands in surrender, slowly stepping away from the riled up vampire spawn upon whom realisation has dawned. He inwardly curls up even more, despising himself for taking out his anger on you and yet no matter what he does, you refuse to leave. You’re still standing there, a safe distance away but within his line of sight with no intention of leaving him. He cannot wrap his mind around why you would do such a thing, why you wouldn’t leave someone as unstable and unloveable as him, but a small part of him is grateful for that, he can’t bear to watch you leave.

“Sorry.” He chokes out, the word leaving a foreign feeling in his mouth. “I —”

“It’s alright, apology accepted.” You smile. “We should return to camp, the others must be wondering what is taking us so long.”

Astarion shifts from one leg to another, scratching the back of his neck, “wait, darling, please.”

You pause, turning around to look at him, “yes, Astarion?”

“I…” He starts. “It’s not your fault, it’s mine. Everything feels tainted, touching you feels disgusting, being so close to you feels nauseating, but it’s not your fault. It has nothing to do with you, I promise, it’s —”

“I know. You don’t have to say it out loud if you don’t want to. I’m sorry I can’t erase the past, but I want to help you forge new associations with touch.” You raise a hand, palm facing him. He does the same, shakily moving his palm closer to yours but encouraged by your smile, he presses your palms together. He swallows the bile rising to his throat and looks to you, waiting for you to make the next move. You take a step closer and he does the same, although his step is filled with much more uncertainty. You give him an encouraging nod and take another step. This time, his step is more certain, made with the signature confidence you know and love.

After a third step, the both of you are close enough that your nose fills with the scent of bergamot, rosemary and a hint of rosemary, overlaying Astarion’s real undead scent. You cautiously put an arm around his waist and when he doesn’t flinch, you grow bolder, removing your hand from his and putting the other arm around his waist.

He freezes, but the action raises no memories he’d rather keep locked away so he tries to keep himself grounded, to feel the soothing warmth of your arms around him that mean him no harm. He locks eyes with you and your gaze washes all the fear away, stirring something within him. He wouldn’t have dared do this before, but tonight you’ve given him more than enough courage to attempt this.

Astarion steels himself, and then puts his own arms around you. His undead heart thunders in his chest, fear consuming his mind. What if you pull away? What if you hate his cold touch? What if —

You lean into his embrace, silencing all his fears and nuzzle into his chest. He lets out a breath he never realised he was holding and buries his face into your shoulder, feeling tears prick at the corners of his eyes. Your embrace is vastly different from the previous embraces he’s had, all you want out of it is a display of love and care, you don’t want his body, you don’t want what he can offer, you don’t want anything in return.

As he continues to hold onto you, never wanting to let go, he lets a hand wander up your back, finding a better position to pull you closer and you hum in response, happily burrowing deeper into his arms.

“I like this, you know,” he whispers. “Whatever it is that we have, I don’t want it to end.”

“I feel the same way,” you whisper back, breathing in his scent. “Let’s stay here like this, the others can survive on their own for a little while longer.”

“I’m sure they can, my love.”

Hugging has definitely made its way to the top of his list of favourite things to do with you, Astarion thinks, listening to your happy hums as you soak in his embrace. He should do this more often.

[danurso]

NWN Challenge

*At a nice bar in Atlas*

Ruby: You’re still dealing with the fallout of that mess?

Blake: Of course. As the head of the white fang I can't just clean up a mess and ignore what caused it and who was affected by it…..*sigh* The last thing I want is people thinking we’re slipping back into what we used to be years back.

Yang: Good thing your pops is really good at de-escalating, well that and Weiss’ PR team.

Blake: Yeah. Where is her by the way? I wanted to thank her personally for all the help.

Ruby: She said she was coming, something came up during work.

Yang: Or someone. If Jaune went to visit she might be an hour or so late.

Blake: That. . . . . . probably isn't the case.

Yang: Why?

Blake: *nods* Because she doesn't look like she just had a good time.

The trio then turned to see a familiar heiress coming in, looking like she was about to murder someone.

Weiss: *sits down on the table*

Bartender: What will it be mi-

Weiss: Vodka. Pure. And make it a triple.

Yang: Yeesh. Someone got up on the wrong side of the bed today.

Ruby: What happened?

Blake: Who did you kill?

Weiss: He's not dead, the doctors said just broke a few bones.

R_BY: . . . . . . . .

Weiss: . . . .what?

Blake: . . . . .i was joking.

Weiss: Oh. . . .right. . . . .

Ruby: Wait, wait, you tried to kill someone!?

Weiss: I didn't! I just exaggerated a bit while dealing with a jerk.

Yang: What happened?

Weiss: . . . . .*sigh* I was venting to Winter about some private things about Jaune, as soon as she left an associate came in, he must've heard something about what we're talking, because as soon as we were done talking business he tried asking me out.

Yang: Doesn't everyone at the company know you just married?

Weiss: They do and he knew about it. But he insisted saying we could do something “fun” and that he could “Give me what i needed” since my husband wasn't doing so.

Ruby: Oh gods. . . . . .

Yang: Hah!

Blake: Like, I understand why that made you angry, but did you have to send the guy to the hospital?

Weiss: Not really, but i’ve been having a really stressful week and even after i said no multiple times, he kept pushing, and the moment he got too close i catapulted him out of the room with a glyph, though because of everything i miscalculated and sent him through a wall instead of the door.

Yang: *laughs* Please send me the video whenever you can! I wanna see that.

Ruby: Well, jerk aside, is everything okay? You sound like there's been stress even before that.

Bartender: Here miss. *Puts down her drink*

Weiss: Thanks.

Blake: Is everything okay at home? You said you were venting about Jaune, is everything okay between you two?

Weiss: No! The last three weeks been awful! HE has been awful!

Blake: Wait what?

Yang: Wow, That's a surprise.

Ruby: But why? What's wrong with Jaune?

Weiss: He’s been the worst! I keep having to deal with issues at the company! Cleaning the mess my father made! And then, after an awful day of work, what am I greeted with!?

Yang: A blown up house?

Blake: Another woman?

Ruby: Jaune wouldn't do that blake! Geez. . . . .Oh! Was it maybe a dead body?

Weiss: No! As soon as I come in he greets me with that stupid! Bright! And warm smile! He hugs me tight goes on about missing me soooo much! He covers me in kisses! Takes me in to show the warm bath he prepared for me! The house which is basically spotless and the dinner which was my favorite! Aaaarggh! Just thinking about it makes my blood boil! *Chugs the drink*

Ruby: . . . . . . . .

Yang: . . . . . . . .

Blake: . . . . . . . . . .that's it?

Weiss: Oh no. No no no, it gets worse. After dinner he brings me a whole cheesecake! Freshly made! And after we ate he took me to the living room and massaged every corner of my stressed body! I felt like I was melting! Oh gods the nerve of that man!!!

Yang: Wow, sounds like a nightmare.

Weiss: I know! Because it is!

Blake: *deadpan* Is it though?

Ruby: Err, Weiss? Are you sure there's a problem there? Because you make it sound like he's doing something bad but apparently he's been really sweet to you.

Weiss: I know! And it's unbearable!

Ruby: But why?

Weiss: BECAUSE IT'S NOVEMBER RUBY!!!

R_BY: Ohhhh. . . . .

Blake: He’s doing that dumb challenge too? I thought it was just Sun.

Ruby: *sigh* Nah, Oscar was doing it too.

Yang: Sounds like a headache. Lucky me and Arslan don't struggle with that stuff.

Blake: Yes, because she's not a guy, they tend to be incredibly stubborn about the stupidest things. Well, as stubborn as you can be with someone who knows all your weaknesses.

Ruby: Got him to give up?

Blake: Around a week in, would’ve been sooner if i wasn't busy with the fang. Oscar giving you trouble?

Ruby: Nope. He went for ten days straight, then he walked in on me coming out of the shower and he snapped. *Chuckles* I wasn't even trying to make him lose.

Weiss: *eyebrow twitching* Good to know I'm the only one suffering here.

Yang: Come on ice cream. You know that guy is basically addicted to you, if you give him a push in the right direction I'm pretty sure he’ll just crumble.

Weiss: And you think I haven't tried!? Skimpy swimsuits, Lingeries, Nudes throughout the day, dirty comments, cosplaying his favorite characters, offering to do the most questionable things! I used every last trick in the book and he STILL didn't cave in!

Yang: Oh, wow.

Blake: I knew he had a strong will but this is still surprising to hear.

Weiss: It's so frustrating! I get to come back home every day to the most wonderful husband in the world, who pampers and looks after me, doing everything I wish and making me the happiest woman in Remnant! And you tell me I can't ride him to oblivion after all that!? It's unfair!!! Utter Injustice!!! I wished I knew who came up with this challenge so I could strangle them until they're blue!!!

Yang: *chuckles* I can't tell if you're angrier at not getting laid for three weeks now or at him for not falling for your charms.

Weiss: BOTH!!!

Ruby: I mean, you said you tried everything but it doesn't sound like it.

Weiss: I did Ruby. I most certainly did! And wore basically anything you could imagine, I went as far as to wear things that, if images were leaked online, my life would be ruined and Blake would never talk to me again.

Yang: . . . . . . .you wore a-

Blake: *covers her mouth* Please don't, I’d rather our friendship still exist by the end of the night. For once in my life i do NOT wanna know.

Yang: *pushes her out* Wow. You really pulled all the stops.

Weiss: And it did nothing to him!!! *Depressed sigh*

Ruby: I mean, so far it sounds like all you did was dress up and act sexy to try and make him cave in.

Weiss: What else was I supposed to do!?

Ruby: Did you forget who you're married to? It's pretty easy to get him to bend and do what you want once you pin his weakness down.

Weiss: . . . . . .that sounded very wrong, especially being about my husband.

Ruby: What? I never abused that weakness mind you! He's my best friend, I could never!

Yang: Unless he has your favorite cookies.

Ruby: *pink* That's different!

Weiss: Spit it out already!

Ruby: *sigh* . . . . .fine. but he ever asks, you didn't learn this from me.

-

Weiss: *walks in* I’m home.

Jaune: *wearing pajamas* Hey, how was your night? *Hugs her* Everyone doing well?

Weiss: Yeah. *Kisses him* Everyone is doing well.

Jaune: I left some food for you in the microwave, wasn’t sure if you would eat out so i made something.

Weiss: It's fine, we got something to eat on the way back.

Jaune: I’ll pack it up for tomorrow then. *Walking to the kitchen* By the way, Whitley called. He said something about a guy you sent to the hospital. Is everything okay at work?

Weiss: Yeah, someone tried hitting on me earlier, and I accidentally used too much force to push him off when he tried to get too close.

Jaune: *storing the food* Ouch. Almost makes me feel bad for him. . . . .almost. *feels a pair of arms wrapping around his torso from behind.* . . . . . .Weiss?

Weiss: *inhale* . . . . . .*deep exhale*

Jaune: *serious* Weiss. . . . .that guy didn't hurt you, did he?

Weiss: *chuckles* Good to know my knight is still there to protect me if I ever need, I thought he ended up buried under my cute husband.

Jaune: Weiss-

Weiss: He did nothing, just a few sweet words which I already forgot. I just wanted to hug you.

Jaune: If you say so, then I believe you. What do you wanna do now?

Weiss: Bed. I’m tired, could you come with me though?

Jaune didn't answer, he only turned around and picked her up in his arms, making her chuckle in response, he took her to the bedroom and helped her out of her clothes and into her nightgown, and soon enough, they were both in bed cuddling.

Weiss: *Chuckling*

Jaune: What’s so funny?

Weiss: Nothing. I’m just happy.

Jaune: That's good to hear. You seemed a little stressed these last few days.

Weiss: Yeah. . . .but I'm fine now. In fact, I couldn't be happier.

Jaune: Really?

Weiss: Of course. *Hugs him closer* I’ve got a nice house, a good job, great friends and above all else *Looks up to him* the most wonderful husband in the world.

Jaune: *pink, scratching his cheek* Hehehe, I’m just doing what I can. It's not a big deal.

Weiss: It is for me. . . .for someone who grew up in a cold house, surrounded by people I couldn't trust, having someone that I can trust and love this much is everything.

Jaune: Weiss. . . . .

Weiss: You never ignore me, you always know when I'm not okay, you look after my every need, you go above and beyond to make me happy, and you know me even better than I do myself. I must've been a saint in a past life to be blessed with someone so wonderful as you are. I wanna stay like this and hold on to you for the rest of my life. *Angelic smile* Thank you for marrying me, my love.

Jaune: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

-

Jaune: *naked on the bed and spooning her* God damnit. . . . .

Weiss: *sweaty and giggling*

Jaune: I can't believe I fell for that.

Weiss: Fell for what~? I was being honest, you know?

Jaune: I know! And that makes it even more of a dirty move!

Weiss: My heart bleeds for you.

Jaune: *groan* I was just a week away. I resisted everything you threw at me and this is how I lost?

Weiss: Yep. I thought there was no way out until a certain someone reminded me how weak you are to someone being genuinely emotional with you.

Jaune: It was Ruby wasn't it? Every time i have her favorite cookies she'll go on this emotional speech about how much it matters to her that i’m her best friend and all we went through, and when i realize i already gave her the cookies.

Weiss: I won't confirm nor deny anything.

Jaune: Ugh, figures.

Weiss: *turns to him* Oh please, you say it as if you didn't like it.

Jaune: Of course I did, I've been craving you for weeks.

Weiss: Good to hear, I felt the same.

Jaune: Just don't do that next year or I'm telling Blake about your secret costumes.

Weiss: You’re doing that again next year!?

Jaune: *chuckles* That's your main concern?

Weiss: Of course I am! These last three weeks have been hell!

Jaune: If that's the case. . . .*on top of her* Then let me take you to paradise.

Weiss: *pink* That wasn't enough for you?

Jaune: Nowhere near enough to make up for these three weeks. You gotta work Tomorrow?

Weiss: Not really, they have to fix the wall in my office so. . . . .

Jaune: Good. You won't have to make up an excuse then. Might need one for after tomorrow though.

Weiss: *red* . . . . . . .I’m in danger aren't i?

Jaune: The plan was to win the challenge and slowly ease back into routine. You tricked me into losing so now I’m giving you what you want, all of it.

Weiss: *redder* C-can we talk about this for a mome-AAHHHH~!?!?

[juanarc-thethird]

After the Ever After #3

Back at home base

Nora: *Worry* You're leaving?!

Jaune: I just need some time to adjust to this world again. I'll be back soon.

Nora: But what about us! Our team!

Ruby: *walks in* What's going on here?

Nora: Jaune wants to leave us!

Ruby: What?!

Jaune: I'm not leaving permanently. I'll be back, I promise.

Ruby: *Looks at him in thought*

Nora: Say something Ruby! Don't let him go!

Ruby: Do you promise to comeback?

Nora: Ruby!

Jaune: Arc promise.

Ruby: Ok, we will wait for you.

Nora: No! *Hugs Jaune tight* You can leave us! I thought I lost you when you didn't come out on the other side. I don't want to lose you again.

Jaune: *hugs her back* It's ok Nora. I'll be back soon. Have I ever not kept my promise?

Nora: Pyrrha

Jaune:...

Jaune: Nora, that's not fair.

Nora: Please stay.

Jaune: I can't

Nora: *Crying* Please

Jaune: *Holding back* I'm sorry

Nora stops hugging Jaune and steps aside. Jaune takes the backpack from her and heads towards the hallway.

Jaune: See you soon.

Ruby: See you soon Jaune.

Nora:...

As he walks into the hallway he sees Ren and Oscar leaning against the wall.

Jaune: I assume you guys heard what happened.

Ren: *Nods*

Oscar: Please take this with you.

he gives Jaune a polaroid with all his friends.

Oscar: Just in case you feel lonely.

Jaune: *Smiles* Thank you.

Ren: I'm sorry Jaune.

Jaune: Sorry for what?

Ren: I don't know, for everything.

Jaune: I see, well don't worry about.

Ren: Be safe.

Jaune: I will

Jaune leaves the two behind and walks towards the exit. Once outside he walks north. After a few moments he stops in the middle of the road.

Jaune: You know, I planned this trip with the idea of being alone.

Emerald: *Using her semblance she appeared near him with a backpack* How did you know I was following you?

Jaune: When you have a murderous monster hunting you, you learn a thing or two in the Ever After.

Emerald: Jeez dude, good way to light up the mood.

Jaune: Well, why don't you go back to the others?

Emerald: You're not my boss.

Jaune: Well I-

Emerald: And I know that you need someone to watch your back.

Jaune: Em, look...

Emerald: I'm not asking. I'm telling you.

Jaune: *Sighs* Fine

Emerald: So where are we going?

Jaune: To check on an old friend of mine.

[razorblade180]

9 days of Lancaster Day 8: Beach Day

Ruby:Jauuuuuune! You ready for next week’s team environmental bonding training!? AKA, the beach!?

Jaune:Umm, yeah. I’m sure it’ll be fun.

Ruby:..Don’t tell me you can’t swim?

Jaune:I can swim fine. Although if I’m honest I’m probably build a sandcastle or something. Maybe read.

Ruby:You sound like Blake. I need you amped! We gotta wipe Yang’s smug look off her face in volleyball.

Jaune:As long as Nora’s on our team.

Ruby:Obviously. Hey, are you already done packing? I didn’t even see you shop.

Jaune:Ren got most of the travel stuff like sunscreen.

Ruby:You owned beach clothes already?

Jaune:I mean…sorta? I have trunks and y’know, a cozy top.

Ruby:Like a divine shirt?

Jaune:More like a…beach hoodie.

Ruby:Jaune, it’s gonna be in the triple digits when we go.

Jaune:I’ll live.

Ruby:Yeah in an emergency room! What’s with you? Do you have a weird scar or something?

Jaune:No. I…*rubs arm* I don’t know. Being shirtless really isn’t my thing. Never had the confidence.

Ruby:Really? I mean i get it; especially before training but you look good! Nora calls you Mr. Muscle.

Jaune:Hehe, yeah it’s a wild thing. I know it’s in my head but after getting picked on when I was younger I kinda became self conscious. Hoodies have always felt cozier after that.

Ruby:….Wanna make a deal?

Jaune:A deal?

Ruby:I actually have been trying to gain more confidence in myself and shake off some awkwardness. I was planning on wearing this older one piece I own. But, there’s also a part of me that wants to try a bikini for the first time. If you step out of your comfort zone then I will do it too. We can be awkward together.

Jaune:I bet you would look nice in a one piece though.

Ruby:….

Jaune:..Yeah, that didn’t sound quite right coming from your boyfriend in this situation.

Ruby:I got the sentiment, but yeah. Not your finest moment. *holds his hands* Let’s take the plunge together. We can even be a little gross and get matching outfits. *smiles*

Jaune:Haha. That would be something, wouldn’t it? I…eh, why not? Sure, let’s try.

Ruby:Yussss!

xxxxxx

The fateful day arrived. After lots of second guessing himself, Jaune stood on corse hot sand underneath a recently planted umbrella . His hoodie was nowhere in sight and his new white swimming trunks fit nicely. All he knew about the design was the at the right leg had a gray pail pouring water out of it like one of those watering buckets.

???: Nora might be onto something with Mr. Muscle.

He turned around to see a red reaper holding her beach bag. More importantly, on her was the bikini she picked in secret. It was the average cut for a standard bikini, with the top being green on the straps and upper rim. Meanwhile, the cups and bottom were bright red with a few yellowish specks. Jaune quickly realized Ruby was a red as the strawberry design she chose.

Ruby:S-So? Any thoughts? How do I look?

Jaune:Edible.

Ruby:!?

Jaune:That’s not- I mean- *covers face*…. You look really nice. Man this hasn’t been my week.

Ruby removed the boy’s hands to get a good look at him. He wasn’t as cut as her but man did he bulk up! Not too much though. Jaune was still pretty lean and Ruby found that wonderful. She moved her arms under his own and gave a gentle hug while her fingers traced his back.

Ruby:If ya ask me, you look, feel, and smell good. I’m one lucky gal.

Jaune:*red* Thanks. I’m pretty lucky too. *hugs her*

Ruby:Well your luck isn’t over. I kinda need your help. *pulls out sunscreen*

Jaune:..You’re really trying give me a heart attack.

Ruby:Hahaha!

[dotieeee]

The Gamemaker's Apprentice

Level 6

Pairing: Dark!Young!Coriolanus Snow x You, named!Reader

Overall Warnings:

NON-CON, DUB-CON, Dark!Young!Coriolanus Snow, Snow himself should be a warning, lots of blackmailing, gaslighting, manipulation, obsession, possesiveness, eventual forced marriage, eventual loss of virginity, breeding kink, canon-compliant major character death, reader is named but has no physical descriptions in the fic so one might also consider her an OC but in 2nd POV, will have canon inconsistencies, and other stuff that may be added

Masterlist

Level 6 Warnings:

Some noncon touching and canoodling (no spoilers)

Replay Level 5

Ready? Level 6 Start:

A knock on the ornate door reverberates inside the empty lab, giving you a tiny jolt in your chair. This must be him, coming over to ‘collect you.’

Like the Grim Reaper who’s come take your soul.

Or maybe it isn’t him. After all, the door isn’t locked, and he’s used to visiting by now to know he can just come in after a knock or two. You get up to open the door, willing your hands to stop shaking so he doesn’t see that you’re fazed by his mere presence.

How are going to win this if you start crumbling like a stale cookie whenever he’s around?

You yank the door open, expecting the Devil himself disguised in slick platinum-blond hair and a finely tailored suit, but instead, you get a man in a hat and a courier’s uniform.

“Ms Prunella Innis?” He inquires.

“Yes?”

He hands you a clipboard for you to sign and picks up this enormous white box wrapped in a satin crimson bow lying by his feet. He also hands you the bouquet he’s cradling, then strides past you to deposit the box on the nearest table. Judging by the red roses in the bundle of blooms, you know who sent you everything without even asking.

Coriolanus Snow never does subtle.

You thank the courier as he exits the lab, tipping his hat in response as he does. Gingerly, you prod the box with a finger, thinking maybe anything could come flying out of the box and rip your face out. It doesn’t move, so maybe the thing inside is dead and he just sent it for the funsies. You brace yourself as you unravel the bow, eager to just get it over with. You lift the lid and a subtle waft of roses greets you.

You gasp when you discover that the contents of the box are nowhere near what you’d been expecting.

They’re actually much worse.

Inside the box are three smaller boxes, all wrapped in red satin ribbons, placed on top of what looks like fancy crepe paper. A card lies atop the tiniest of the boxes with handwriting you can recognise from a mile away.

To my Sugarplum,

Wear this tonight. A car will pick you up from the Corso III entrance at six. We will talk about your response to my request then,

Your Coryo

The box underneath the note reveals a heart-shaped ruby necklace with a fine white gold chain, similar to the chain of that plum-coloured diamond he gave you. In the confines of the second box lies a small black silk clutch, embellished in minuscule silver beads, and embroidered with fine-spun silver, making up a pattern resembling roses. The third box contains a pair of single-strap black satin high-heeled pumps. Underneath those boxes, covered in what you originally thought was just wrapping paper, is a floor-length slip dress made of silk in the loveliest shade of crimson. Based on the superb craftsmanship of the dress alone, you can tell that it isn’t something one can buy off-the-rack. Tailor-made by Coriolanus Snow’s choice of tailor shop, judging by the logo sticker sealing the crepe wrapping paper together.

There was one time these extravagant gifts would’ve sent you in a grateful, ecstatic mood.

That feels like forever ago, now.

At the moment, your gut just stirs in discomfort, looking at this luxurious mess.

Your trepidation only mounts as you watch the clock trudge slowly from day to night. By four, you get home and prepare for the inevitable. You try not to be surprised with the way the dress hugs your figure perfectly, because then that would mean he somehow got lucky with eyeballing your dress size, or that he got ahold of your measurements through questionable means. By five-thirty, the girl in your mirror is barely recognizable – a girl you’ve never seen before, put together on the outside and nearly falling apart at the seams on the inside.

It certainly doesn’t help that the near-nauseating scent of roses still emanates from the dress you’re wearing.

The reflection staring back at you seems to mock you, telling you this is your life now, all preened up at the behest of a stranger whose pastime is pushing other people under his thumbs. Oh well. You’ll get out of this invasive mask soon, you assure yourself.

The driver who’s expecting you right at your building’s entrance wordlessly opens the car door for you. An Avox, you recognise – a product of one of the Capitol’s many sophisticated ways of punishing dissent. Because sometimes death by hanging takes the rebels out of their misery too quickly, so one brilliant mind in the Capitol one day had this brilliant idea of cutting people’s tongues off and shunning them into the lowest wrung of society so they could live a life of servitude, not subjecting anyone else to their worthless, wayward opinions.

And of course, everyone else agreed with how fucking brilliant an idea it was.

Would you have preferred Sejanus be sentenced this way and still have him alive instead of dead? You banish the thought as quickly as it had come – too morbid, even by your standards. Besides, there was no way the Capitol could’ve shut him up, even without his tongue. He still would’ve fought tooth and nail for the change he wanted to see in the world.

Ten minutes to six and you’re already pulling up to the entrance of what looks like The Palisades Hotel, the grandest luxury five-star hotel in all of Panem. There are many other cars already milling at the entrance, with small crowds forming to presumably greet each other. The Chauffeur opens your car door, and immediately after stepping out of the rental car, you spot the very man responsible for you being here instead of at home, guzzling hot chocolate and stuffing your face with angel food cake.

Coriolanus Snow seems to be engaged in a lighthearted conversation with a group of older men in flashy tuxedos you only vaguely recognise by face, but his attention shifts the moment he sees you emerge from the car. You could see him mouth ‘see you inside’ to them as one of them shakes his hand vigorously. His piercing blue eyes scan your frame a few feet away, his lilting grin never vanishing from his face as he approaches you.

He seems to have lured you into some kind of party under false pretences.

He looks flawless, as he always does: his platinum-blond locks combed back, his sleek crimson tuxedo matching yours, and a signature white rose pinned to his lapel; no wonder he almost fooled you – that blinding charm he has always allowed him to hide something sinister underneath.

You could feel your pulse race with every step he takes in your direction. It takes you a fraction of a second to realise he’s holding out his hand, which you tentatively accept. He never breaks eye contact with you as he brushes his lips over the back of your hand.

You might’ve yanked your hand away a little too fast for his liking, for you see his eyes flash danger before shifting to his usual semblance of warmth.

He leans into your ear and whispers, “Sugarplum, you are a sight to behold.”

You put on the best realistic smile you can muster. “Thank you. And thank you for the dress and...everything else.”

You stay frozen to your spot as he tucks a lock of your hair behind your ear, his fingers briefly brushing against your cheek. “There. Perfect,” he says. “And there’s no need to thank me. I like spoiling my sugarplum with only the best.”

But despite the rather depressing outlook you had coming here, there’s a glimmer of hope you see as an idea strikes you. Maybe you can get out of this early, after all.

“Coryo, Uncle Cas agreed,” you tell him at once. And then make up an excuse and bolt. Anything to get out of here and away from him. “He’s willing to transfer my apprenticeship.”

Coriolanus beams in delight at the news, his eyes twinkling as he takes the initiative to wrap your arm around his. “I’m so happy to hear that, sugarplum. The highlight of my night. Let me take you inside; a lot of people are dying to see you.”

Before you can complain, however, he all but steers you inside the lobby and to the entrance of the Palisades’ grand hall.

“Where exactly are we going, Coryo?” you ask. He never said anything about other people, but maybe they could come in handy in case you need to duck and make a run for it.

He releases a short sigh, looking apologetic and slowing his pace. “I may have forgotten to tell you that we’d be attending Mr Plinth’s birthday party tonight. I’m sorry, sugarplum, I’ve been meaning to invite you in person, but I’ve been so busy lately it slipped my mind.”

Your hand makes its way to your mouth as you gasp. “But haven’t brought him a gift…”

He is quick to dismiss your concern as he waves to someone exiting the hall. “It’s okay. I wrote both our names on the card on my gift.”

“Why would you do that?” you ask, as the massive gold-painted doors open to a grand hall lined with marble and gold, revealing a crowd of people already chatting and enjoying the booze over a full orchestra playing at the corner of the stage. You could feel the blood drain from your face as a sea of curious, ogling eyes trails on you both entering the grand hall, but you power through and smile – there’s no escaping now, at this point.

“I’m simply taking responsibility,” Coriolanus responds in a teasing tone. “Would you rather have come here without a gift?”

You look up at him while you cling onto his arm for some support. He looks every bit at home with all the attention – so undeniably different from the eighteen-year-old Academy Coriolanus fidgeting with his collar all those years ago on the day of the Reaping.

You wonder inwardly if that’s the only thing in him that’s changed, while everything else that’s rotten in him had always been there, if not amplified.

“I guess not,” you acquiesce. “Thank you. Please let me know how I can pay you back.”

“Oh, don’t worry. I’ll think of something,” he says with a lopsided grin.

Coriolanus’s arm veers you to Mr and Ma Plinth, who are both entertaining guests. You give Mr Plinth your well-wishes for his birthday and get a motherly hug from Ma, who gushes over how ‘you look every bit like a princess.’

“My sons sure have excellent taste,” she tells Coriolanus with a wink, earning a hearty laugh from him before she pulls him into an affectionate embrace.

The dress. She’s referring to the dress for sure.

But just when you think you’re finally free to just face the farthest corner and disassociate, his arm wraps around your waist and leads you away to meet other people. People you’d rather not associate with.

The horror.

But as usual, you paint on the demurest of smiles, trying not to be fazed by the flashing of cameras in the hall. The party is apparently heavily covered by the media, so Coriolanus does his best to mesmerise everyone with his wit, his looks and his charisma, while you play the role of the dolled-up, docile arm décor, beaming and chiming in only when spoken to.

It’s nothing short of demeaning, but you’re here to play his game, and losing isn’t an option.

Coriolanus proudly introduces you to everyone you meet as his official gamemaker apprentice, much to their admiration. A lot of them, powerful, important heads in the Capitol and their children, some of whom you know by face at the University. Most of them, unfamiliar faces, but they feel the need to give you unsolicited advice – somewhere along the lines of being seen more among peers of the same societal status.

“How come we don’t see you out that often?”

“You’re so pretty, you should go out more and have fun!”

“Nellie, we usually hang out at this bar, it’s super exclusive, you should come with us sometime.”

The same thing, over and over, and you just go along, nodding or shaking your head and laughing whenever a joke is told, crack a few yourself, exchange toasts over minuscule sips of booze, and tell them through gritted teeth that you’ll see them around, only to be snatched away again by the waist by Coriolanus and be brought over to another clique. Your Uncle Cas would be laughing his ass off at you if he could see you right now.

The cycle goes on, and you find yourself getting better at it with practice. Just like a loop, repeating a set of code for x number of times, automating repetitive, boring tasks on a computer application.

The only problem with loop conditions: when poorly written, can lead to infinite loops, which can cause the application’s unresponsiveness.

You vaguely wonder how long this loop is conditioned to last.

A guy you’ve seen in one of your classes approaches you and strikes up a conversation, just when Coriolanus is looking away, his hand slack on your waist as he speaks with a Mr Rutherford.

“I read your paper on the application of artificial intelligence in automating retina-scanning and other security measures,” he says, adding for clarification when you flash him a questioning look, “It’s in the library, along with your other research papers. It’s so well put together.”

He holds out his hand as he introduces himself as Ovidius Browne, the youngest of three sons of business magnate Octavius Browne. The Brownes own a number of factories in District 6. You shake his outstretched hand. He reveals himself to be in his junior year in computer engineering, a career he decided to take to help improve their company’s factory conditions. He wonders if such levels of automation would be possible in basic manufacturing tasks like quality inspection and inventory scanning without taking jobs away or being too invasive to factory workers. It’s a terrific concept, you say, and you get so pumped with exchanging ideas that you forget to put up your facade and instead engage wholeheartedly, at least until a cold hand travels from the back of your neck down to your spine, settling on the small of your back and tracing circles with a finger.

“Browne, is it?” Coriolanus Snow’s baritone chips in.

You introduce them formally and they exchange a brief and polite handshake.

“I’d like to discuss more of that with you Ms Innis,” Ovidius says. “If we could perhaps exchange numbers – ”

“Of course, we’d love to chat, Mr Browne. I can give Nellie your office number and she’ll get in touch,” Coriolanus interrupts genially. His fingers are still drumming over your back as he continues, “Apologies, I have to take my apprentice away; there is someone I’d like her to meet.”

He grips your waist to pull you away without waiting for a response from either of you.

You shoot him a confused look. “Coryo, he was just – ”

“About to ask you to put in a good word on his behalf to your uncle? Yes, he was.” He says with an eyebrow raised in disapproval.

“But we were just talking about...tech stuff. Are you sure?”

The conversation you had with him didn’t seem like it’ll branch off into that territory.

He nods once. “A little bird may have chirped to me about a certain Browne sibling’s internship application getting rejected twice by the Dean of Computer Sciences. It’s like you said before, sugarplum: just another one of those sycophants complimenting you in exchange for something.”

How much inside information does he have stockpiled on other people? Maybe he keeps them stashed in his closet labelled ‘in case of emergency, break glass.’

Just when you thought you could talk to someone about something you’re genuinely interested in for once this night.

You’re recognised by a surprisingly pleasant, popular senior and it-girl from your college, Ursa Talbot – daughter of Labor Solicitor Ursinus Talbot – who ropes you in with her gaggle of girlfriends, chatting to you about the exclusive, invite-only social clubs she’s joined and offers to vouch for you.

Ursa’s fiancé, a fresh graduate now working for her father, joins in the conversation, rolling his eyes as the women around him start giggling and making suppressed squealing noises at someone behind you. Before you turn around to see who it is, you feel a gentle squeeze on the waist.

“Ladies, my apologies, but I’d have to take my apprentice away,” he declares with a wink, and they swoon and blush behind their hands. “I hope you enjoy the night. Nellie?”

“Yes?”

Like you’re programmed to do, you look at Coriolanus with a cheerful smile and let him haul you off.

He tells you something you don’t quite catch. With the music now reaching its climax and the chatter getting livelier, it becomes hard to hear anyone, so you have no choice but to lean closer to him to make out what he’s saying. He takes this further and tugs you close to his chest by the waist. The proximity makes you inadvertently place a hand on the lapel of his waistcoat, while he whispers to the side of your face close to your ear, “I said I’m going to introduce you to Dr Volumnia Gaul.”

You peer to your side, to where he’s eyeing, and true enough, Dr Gaul herself was there, wearing a purple and gold brocade dress cascading to the floor and leather gloves to match, her straggly, greying hair adding to her distinct look. She’s chatting away with an animated Strabo Plinth holding a dainty drink in one hand and a beetle-shaped clutch in the other.

Even in something as completely innocent and normal as a birthday party, she still stands out against the crowd as a formidable presence.

She’s what you think Coriolanus is trying to be, except for the speaking-in-riddles-and-rhymes part. Wouldn’t it be funny, a snide voice in your head says, if Coriolanus one day just starts saying ‘hippity-hoppity?’

The thought is enough is cheer you up a little bit.

Volumnia Gaul’s mismatched eyes roam over the two of you as you near her spot.

“Dr Gaul, it’s a pleasure to see you tonight. I’m glad you could join us,” he says with a tip of his head. “I know we mustn’t talk of work, but I’m sure you’ll be happy to know I have secured myself the apprentice of my dreams.”

“Mr Snow, what delightful news you bring me,” she drawls toothily. “Oh my, oh my. Prunella Innis!”

Her unnerving gaze lands on you, her gloved fingers lifting your chin as if to get a better look.

Just smile, dammit.

“The apple of young Snow’s eye. I was wondering when we’d get to meet. Finally putting a pretty face to your name is such a treat!” She releases a pleased, throaty chuckle.

You try to keep your voice as steady as you can. “Pleasure to be of your acquaintance, Dr Gaul.”

The grin she has from ear to ear does not extend to her eyes. “Clever little girl, this. I can see why...” she trails off, then flicks an odd, knowing stare at your friend. “Keep your eagle eye on this one, Mr Snow; you wouldn’t want her flying away with her teensy-weensy wings...”

Seeing as this friendly, albeit bizarre banter isn’t in your list of programmed interactions, you settle for the automated smile, careful not to let it falter.

“Of course, Dr Gaul. I’m not planning on letting her go anytime soon,” he responds just as playfully.

Thankfully, the exchange ends there, as you’re both called by party ushers to your table where the Plinth couple are sitting. Odd sitting at the table for what seems to be family and close friends only, but you keep your thoughts to yourself while the ceremony begins. The night goes on with well-wishing speeches from the Plinth senior’s closest friends and colleagues. Then, the dinner courses are served right after an honorary toast for the celebrant. Everything brought to the table by the servers looks expensive and sumptuous – all a grand display of opulence that is the seemingly infinite Plinth fortune.

And yet you find yourself only able to nibble at the food, having your appetite diminished by the stress of interacting with so many people in just less than two hours.

“You’ve barely eaten anything,” Coriolanus’s voice floats from beside you. His eyes are laced with worry as he asks, “Can I get you anything you’d like?”

Plus, having to deal with him dragging you from one place to another.

You shake your head once and assure him you’re fine. You partake of the food a little more when the dessert course comes around, much to his approval.

“I’d hate to see my sugarplum getting sick,” he says as he watches you eat a tiny forkful of birthday cake.

This you ignore in favour of savouring the cake’s decadent caramel frosting and rich custard filling, balanced with an airy lemon-and-orange-flower chiffon base. You figure if you can��t have fun tonight, the least you can do is enjoy the cake.

With the food out the way, more booze comes flowing, and it isn’t long before the orchestra plays a lively tune, and the dance floor gets filled with delighted, slightly inebriated guests waltzing and tapping to the beat, and while Strabo doesn’t join in, he and Ma both look thrilled to see everyone in high spirits, before they’re pulled separately into light chit-chat by their friends.

If Sejanus was here now, you’d both be sulking together in a corner of the grand hall sharing what would’ve been your third slice of cake, arguing over who gets the side with more frosting.

You take advantage of this moment to extricate yourself from everyone – mostly Coriolanus and his imposing presence – and excuse yourself to the powder room. Locking yourself inside a bathroom stall, you let out a drawn-out exhale of absolute relief.

Alone, finally.

You gaze wistfully at the bathroom window to your left. It’s too high for your reach, but you figure you could use one of the large potted plants as a booster and get as far away from this place as you possibly can, even if you had to go on foot.

Groaning to yourself, you stew in the fact that this freedom of yours from your deviously charming companion is short-lived. He’d soon be wondering where you’d gone, and he’d likely tear the place down just so he could find you. You doubt he’d appreciate it if he hears that you’ve locked yourself in a bathroom stall plotting your escape.

The dancing is on full blast as you step back into the grand hall. You make yourself as inconspicuous as you can, strategically darting between people to reach the open bar. You choose a bar stool that conceals you from everyone in the room and order a drink on impulse. The bartender is kind enough to humour your request for an alcohol-free concoction, which he serves with maraschino cherries on a toothpick.

“Rough night?” he asks as he wipes a glass, smiling sympathetically at you. With his greying hair and the lines on the corner of his eyes, he seems to be wearier than you are, probably from having to be at the beck and call of thirsty, snotty Capitol High Society all night.

“Very,” you sigh. “I hope it isn’t as rough as yours.”

“Are you kiddin’ me?” he shakes his head with a chortle. “I had a lady just a few clicks ago demand I make the same drink four times because she wanted a Cosmo without the cranberry juice and the lime. Coulda just ordered a shot of vodka and Cointreau, but what do I know...”

You let out a suppressed, dry laugh. “I’m sorry you to had deal with that. Thanks for the drink, it’s delicious.”

“Eh. It’s nothin',’” he shrugs. A server enters behind the bar and whispers something to him, and he promptly takes his apron off and exits, but not before bidding you a good night. He is replaced by someone younger and more stern-looking, who resumes the abandoned task of wiping the other glasses.

Just as you’re about to bite a cherry off the toothpick, a sudden waft of roses floats in your vicinity, followed by a cold hand on your lower back and an airy baritone whisper over your ear.

“I was afraid you had walked out on me.”

Coriolanus Snow’s lopsided grin is inches away from your face as he leans against the counter beside you, his eyes eventually landing on the drink you’re still halfway through finishing.

“Hmm. What would my sugarplum be drinking liquid courage for?”

You shake your head. “This is alcohol-free.”

“Good.” He straightens his posture to full height and, bending to a stiff, formal bow, he extends a hand and asks, “Prunella Innis, may I please have the honour of this dance?”

You hesitate, but knowing that every move you make is now under public scrutiny, saying no and leaving him out to dry isn’t an option.

He sweeps you away to the dance floor as soon as your fingers touch his.

With the orchestra blaring their lovely rendition of Strauss II’s Voices of Spring, you both begin swaying lightly as you place your palms on his shoulder while his hands encase both sides of your waist.

Coriolanus beams down on you as his cobalt eyes search your face.

“Are you okay?” he asks, his voice mixed with a tiny tinge of concern. “I really hope I haven’t overwhelmed you, I know you never liked these kinds of parties.”

Your lips thin to a wry smile. “It’s a change of scenery, alright,” you admit. “What about you? You look like you’re having the time of your life.”

His eyes twinkle as he lets out a throaty chuckle. “That’s only because I brought good company with me.”

“Really? I thought this was your whole scene.”

“Well, if you keep going with me to the next ones, it might just be.”

His air of mischief continues even as the music ends and you join in applauding the musicians. When he doesn’t make a move to cart you off the dance floor, that’s when you figure out he isn’t done dancing with you just yet.

The orchestra begins their rendition of the Snowstorm waltz, so you both exchange a curtsy, as is the norm. With his hand clasping yours and his other hand on your waist, you begin to dance, spinning and waltzing to the beat. You’re aware you shouldn’t be making a big deal out of something as trivial as a dance, but you’re still unable to meet his eyes, afraid of what you might find. You settle for staring at his tux collar and concentrating on your footwork.

Thank goodness those etiquette classes in your early teens are proving to be worth your uncle’s money.

Soon enough, your surroundings become a blur, and all you can see is him, beaming down at you as you dip, then pulling you flush to his chest so he can spin with you some more. His gaze is heavy, feverish, never leaving your face. You see a split-second flash of the entire hall, which throws you further into a daze, discovering that eyes are trained on you both and most of the dancers have vacated the floor to give you room. The heady smell of roses, courtesy of the one pinned to his lapel, blurs your sense of reality, and you beg, you pray, that you don’t hurl what little food you ate and make a fool out of yourself. He angles his head in time to another dip and he whispers to ear in a low voice.

“You’re so intoxicatingly beautiful.”

Then he pulls you close again, your foreheads almost touching as he drinks all of you in with those half-lidded blue eyes. A few more trots on the floor and the waltz ends, and you curtsy as he bows, trying not to show just how lightheaded you are and how shallow your breathing is despite the dance itself being undemanding. The animated applause that follows echoes in the hall, and you join in mechanically.

Guests come milling in pairs to fill the dance floor once more just as the next waltz plays. Coriolanus entwines his fingers with yours.

“Come with me,” he says vaguely, and you both manoeuvre your way through the dancers and ignore some of the whispering and the staring that follows you as you exit the grand hall through the several ceiling-to-ceiling doors made of glass panels. He leads you down to the marble staircase and into the hotel’s expansive inner gardens.

“I figured you needed the fresh air,” he says as soon as you both reach a wall beside a well-manicured hedge, away from leering eyes and all the gossiping.

Your posture sags against the stone wall, letting out an exhausted exhale. “Thank you,” you say.

He just watches you wordlessly, his hands behind his back, as you compose yourself. When your head clears, you become aware that you’ve strayed a tad too far from the grand hall and are a little too alone with him than you’d prefer. Eventually, you straighten, your decision to go back to the party already made.

But Coriolanus is on you the moment you do.

“I want to show you something,” he says.

He gives you no time to complain, and he all but drags you by the arm further into a dimmer section of the garden, where you can barely hear the music and the chatter from the grand hall. A few more steps and you reach a large stone greenhouse covered wall-to-wall in creeping wisteria. Surprisingly, it’s unlocked, so he easily pushes the opaque glass door open and ushers you in first, with him following closely behind.

“The roses are to your far right.”

You hear the door’s dull click as it closes.

You shouldn’t be here, you think. But you get to the edge of the greenhouse, anyway, where the nearly overwhelming odour of a mishmash of different types of roses invades your nostrils. Despite the very little light coming through the opaque glass panels of the enclosure, you see the flowers sprawled in between a narrow path leading to the back of the building. Just more stone and glass panels, no doors.

No exits. No escape.

Your heart leaps to your throat when you feel a warm breath tickle the back of your neck and a pair of arms snake around your form. Tensing up in an instant, your breath hitches when that warmth reaches your ear.

Coriolanus’s deep, hushed tone sends shivers down your spine.

“I’ve been dying to have you all to myself the moment you stepped out of that car.”

In the blink of an eye, he turns you around and captures your lips with his.

It takes a while for you to realise what he’s doing, so he takes advantage of your momentary unresponsiveness and slips his tongue inside your mouth. As he’s moving his tongue all over yours, your back hits a hard surface. He’s pinned you against the stone wall, his body hunched over as he presses himself on yours, giving you no space to slip through or to push him away. His hand wraps around the side of your head to change the angle, allowing him to deepen the kiss.

Coriolanus Snow is kissing you, passionately and possessively, and he kisses like he’s running out of breath and you’re his only source of air.

And all you could do in your state of denial, paralysis, and fear is to close your eyes and wish he was Sejanus instead.

When he shifts his angle, you tilt your head to the side so you can catch your breath. Perhaps he sees this as an act of defiance, for he cups both your cheeks with a growl, making you face him, and goes back to kissing you just as fiercely as before. This time, you instinctively keep your lips shut, but a light nip of his teeth leaves you gasping in surprise, enabling him to tangle both your tongues.

Your hands manage to wedge between your bodies, so you push him away with all the strength you have. As he reluctantly pulls away, he has the gall to look affronted, but you could’ve slapped him, too, or clawed his eyes out for putting you in such a vulnerable position; only reason prevents you from lashing out.

“I’m sorry, sugarplum. I’ve had quite the drink tonight,” he whispers breathlessly, resting his forehead on your temple.

Liar. You can barely smell anything alcohol-related on him; just the sickening scent of the flowers he’s partial to. This is all just a part of the game to him, to make you feel isolated and powerless against him. A play for power and control, and one he’s currently winning.

“We should go, Coryo.” You hate how close to begging your voice sounds. “Please, it’s a school day tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow is Saturday.”

Fuck.

Of all the excuses, that’s what you come up with?

He begins planting butterfly kisses on your temple and your cheek.

“Not for my uncle,” you scramble to correct yourself. “He often has Saturday classes and I sometimes help.”

“Skip it. You’re my apprentice now. Mine,” he says sternly. He seems to immediately amend his tone by asking, “I mean, doesn’t he have interns for that?”

Damn it.

“Yes, he does.”

You could feel him smirk against your cheek, seemingly counting this as a win. With you still effectively trapped in between the wall and his unrelenting embrace, he takes your chin with his forefinger and thumb to make you face him and latches his lips on yours.

His hand finds its way to your back, brushing against the groove of your spine. He then grips the back of your neck and turns your head to the side, allowing him to leave a trail of open-mouthed kisses on your jaw, before moving down to the column of your neck.

You cave in and beg as soon as you feel his tongue on your skin.

“Coryo, please...please stop...”

It comes out as a broken whimper, making you hate yourself even more. The dread you felt when you opened his gift, the way you had to put on a mask that you hate for people you don’t care for, the way you had to pretend to him that you don’t despise how he kept making you feel so exposed and defenceless the entire night – everything you’ve been bottling up since this morning seemed to come spilling into that plea, rendering you to feel even more helpless and alone. It takes every ounce of self-control in you not to burst into tears.

You’re not supposed to act this pathetically in front of him, but here you are.

His grip on you grows slack and he draws his head back to observe you, his jaw clenched in disapproval. You don’t care; you try to wriggle away from him, your bodies still too close for your liking. You still refuse to meet his eyes, because if you do, he might see right through your crumbling facade.

He sighs and takes a full step backwards, finally giving you space to breathe in relief.

He still finds the nerve to let out a restrained chuckle. “I’m sorry, I let my emotions get the better of me. You’re right; this is neither the time nor the place.”

Neither the time nor the place. Does that mean he’ll do it again? At this point, you can’t bring yourself to care.

“Can we go back? Please?”

He takes your hand in his with a nod. Stepping outside the greenhouse, you both stop in your tracks as you spot another couple nearby, seemingly trying to stay hidden in the bushes and in the middle of making out. It’s Ursa and her fiancé. They both pull away from each other and Ursa waves at you spiritedly while her partner looks away in embarrassment. She then drags him by the arm to the now-vacant greenhouse, both of them bursting into a giddy laughing fit.

Coriolanus just smirks at the sight. With him refusing to let your hand go, you continue your trek back to the grand hall, where the party is still in full swing, and the guests are still drinking and dancing the night away.

Your feet are sore, your lips are numb, and your soul is drained.

Yet you still put on a good final show until the party ends as if nothing happened. By eleven thirty, Mr and Ma Plinth instruct Coriolanus to call it a night and get some rest, but not before he escorts you home. Like the dutiful Plinth heir he is, he gladly obliges, and that’s how you wind up with the same car ride as he, the tension in the air so thick you could cut it through with a butter knife.

Coriolanus breaks the silence.

“I will have a car escort you from your home the Citadel starting Monday,” he says matter-of-factly. “As per Dr Gaul’s instructions, you will be excused from any summer class you’ve enrolled in.”

“But I took those classes for extra credit,” you protest mildly.

He encases your hand on your lap. “You will be granted full credits for all of them if we succeed. This is, after all, for the cause, not only of the Citadel nor of the Capitol, but of all of Panem.

“This Monday, sugarplum, is the dawn of a new era.”

You refuse point-blank to look at him or even acknowledge the comment, but judging by the excitement in his tone, despite everything he’s forced you to do this night, you already know he’s smiling and extremely pleased with himself.

After long agonising minutes, the car pulls up before the Corso III lobby entrance, so you bid him good night, which he returns with a swift peck on your cheek. You don’t even look back at the car once you get out; you run straight to the elevator, lock your apartment door and head to the safety of your bedroom.

Your first of two tasks as soon as you lock the door is to rid yourself of everything that reminds you of that accursed party – the dress, the shoes, the clutch, the necklace – and chuck them all into a corner where you hope you’d never see them again. You have a half-mind to shower to get rid of his smell on you, but you’re so tired to the bone you move on to the second and last task of the night:

Curl up in your blankets and cry your heart out.

Enter Level 7

Author notes:

Please reblog and comment, it's always appreciated!!

Next Level will include a portion of the ball in Snowball's POV!! I wanted it to be here but then it'll get too long so...🫣 also reader is going to have to work this incoming Monday lol and more sympathetic I cannot be, esp with Snowball observing 😛

[spahhzy]

Roman: We'll kiddo, it's time to go.

Neo: 😞

Roman: I know-hey hero boy!

Jaune raises an eyebrow.

Roman: Thanks for letting me say goodbye to Neo.

Jaune nods to him, his semblance still active, keeping Roman soul still alive for the moment.

Roman just feels Neo hugs him tightly, and he hugs her back, and it is a quiet tender moment between the pair as Team RWBY look on.

Roman appearance starts to flicker, the sign that Jaune's semblance was reaching its end.

Roman looks at his partner once more.

Roman: You go fix yourself, and then when you do? I have one more thing to ask of you...

Neo looks at him, rubbing away a tear from her eye as Roman smirks and reaches at his hat...

Roman to Neo:

Roman: Live. It would mean a lot to me.

Neo just looked at Roman and gave a nod.

Roman: Thank you

Suddenly, Roman's body began to shimmer and disperse.

Roman: Goodbye...Trivia.

Neo: 'Goodbye Roman'

With that, Roman was gone...

Jaune let out shaky breath and fell to one knee as Roman's soul finally moved on from this world.

RWBY: Jaune!

As they rushed toward him but was stopped when Neo stepped in front of him and offered her hand to him.

Jaune looked at it before grabbing it and lifted himself up.

Jaune: Well...I hope you got the closure you ne-oof!

He didn't get another word in as he felt Neo hig him tightly.

Jaune: Eh.

Neo quickly released the hug before stepping away from him .

Jaune: I won't ask what that was all for...I hope you get things sorted out with yourself.

Neo just nods before finally taking a bow and jumps off to ascend.

Weiss: Jaune, are you alright?

Jaune: I'm fine, Weiss, how about everyone else?

Yang: We're good here, VB.

Blake: Yes, everyone is okay.

Ruby: Jaune... how did you do that with Torchwick?

Jaune (sighs): It's a new addition to my semblance...

Yang: Woah, you can raise the dead?

Jaune: No, Yang, It's just me being able to project the spirit as long as their is enough Aura in this case me, a cherished item in this instance Torchwick's hat and a connection the bond Neo and Roman had, then I can briefly project that spirit to this world.

Ruby looked at Jaune, hopefully. If that were the case, then she could see Penny and her mom once more?

Yang: What do we do about Neo?

They looked up to see a newly formed branch that looked like Neo.

Ruby: She'll find herself, one way or another.

[0sincerelyella]

Aw love the new Joe content girly! Please can we get one where you and Joey b go to some sort of ~Hollywood party~ and it’s just really cute and people/the internet love how cute you 2 are together! Idk something along those lines

Red Carpet MVP -Joe burrow

Summary: Joes up more an MVP! most valuable partner according to magazines, and every news instagram on the planet

notes: EEE this is so exciting!! i love your energy thank you for requesting:) i also made up everyone’s dates names so

i have bunches of requests i apologize if this is rushed

all my y/n characters are going to be og bengals fans bc i am biased

the dress she wears on carpet: (ik its prom dressy just bare with me)

the suit he wears: (the shirt is cut all the way to the bully button and he has no tie, going scandalous lol)

Hours and hours of searching for an outfit to be the plus one on the red carpet is tiring. y/n was stressing out more than she had ever stressed out before. she wanted to impress joe, but more importantly impress all the eyes that would be on her and joe all night. the two had been dating for awhile but just now gone public, so the media is all over them like travis kelce and taylor swift.

she didn’t want to be too simple, because she was dating with THE fashion nova, joe burrow. but she also didn’t want to be too over the top, or overpower the spotlight that is one hundred percent made for her MVP.

Joe had asked her to pick a purple dress, feeling the mood to rock an all purple suit on the carpet, to which she happily obliged. and after hours of deciding she finally chose her dress.

it was light purple with ripples all to the bottom, she felt as if she was going to prom again, doing a spin in her dress as she watched the mirror she smiled. she couldn’t be happier than in this moment.

not even minutes later, joe knocks on the door and lets himself in. “are you ready ba-“ he stops in the middle of the door way, his under shirt was cut low, and the suit curved his body in a perfect way. his hair was longer, shaggy, and pushed to the side. he looked to y/n in shock

“you are the most stunning woman on the planet” he says, grabbing her hips and pulling her closer. “thank you mr. sheisty” she says with a smile

he laughs, taking her hand and gesturing a quick spin. “i love you” he says, dipping her and kissing her lips. “i love you too” she states, standing up and walking out of the door.

the limo ride there was quiet, mostly joe calming y/ns nerves and y/n freaking out even more. once they arrived to the venue, joe stepped out of the vehicle, holding the door open and putting out his hand, allowing his beautiful girlfriend to get out of the car, he linked arms with her after shutting the door and they made their way down the carpet

many football players, old and new, were already sitting around the carpet chatting, intervening, mingling. y/n observed the scenarios in-front of her and took a deep breath. “Joe joe! who is this? she’s gorgeous!” joe smiled, pulling her closer. answering their questions simply “my girlfriend” and continuing to walk through the carpet

interview after interview she was asked more questions than joe, but he didn’t mind. he knew how much getting in the spotlight would help towards her anxiety, and he didn’t enjoy spotlight much so it was a win win.

joe had met up with ja’marr, and some of the other boys, and y/n stood with their dates. “hi y/n!” ja’marrs girl said, a large smile on her face. her name was ruby and she and y/n were very close considering how much time joe and ja’marr spent with eachother. “hi rubes!” she smiled, pulling her into a hug. paparazzi stood around taking pictures of them

even as joe mingled with other teammates, and y/n mingled with their girls, joes hand never left y/n in some way. wether it was around her waist or holding her hand or even on her shoulder. paparazzi was loving it, taking pictures of his hand every place he put it. he opened doors for her, he held her close, he kissed her head even when she wasnt looking at him.

“i love you” he’d whisper, as soon as each of his friends began to talk to others and they were both free for even just a moment.

so many football players who she grew up watching were on this red carpet, and when joe left his friends to mingle with more people that’s when the anxiety started. “oh my goodness!” she squealed, her feet stomping on the ground excitedly. joe smiled at his girl, following her line of sight and meeting with her all time favorite football player

Aj green

“he retired? he’s here? why’s he here, joe i’m gonna freak out”

joe smiled, every time he had mentioned already meeting aj green y/n would freak out and have her tell him every detail. so when he heard aj would be at the red carpet, he just had to surprise his favorite girl.

“Aj!” joe called, y/n ran behind him, her stomach churning. “i hate you i hate you i hate you” she whispered only making joe laugh more. “hey!” aj said, walking up to them. “this is

y/n, my girlfriend” he smiled, stepping aside so y/n was in front of them. “hi…” y/n said, biting her tounge to keep herself from fan girling out.

joe introduced the two together more, and y/n was a giggling giddy mess.

paparazzi was eating them up, the cameras staying on them the whole night.

on instagram the world was freaking out. from loving their outfits, to screaming about how gentlemanly joe is, to freaking out about the way he looks at her. the world loved it.

after the party and the carpet, joe and y/n sat in their living room, scrolling through posts and comments laughing and smiling. “i love this” y/n smiled. “they love you” joe said, motioning her chin to face him. “but i love you more” he whispered, pulling her in to kiss her.

he was really the most valuable partner

[here-to-read-and-write]

Can you do one with a female reader who likes to act in her free time and invites the task force 141+Alejandro +Rudy to see her play at the theater? Feel free to ignore this

This could be seen as platonic or romantic for Price.

Sorry for the late update, I just finished watching Shadow and bone and I am looking for the books, so maybe I can write for it. I don't know, do you have any suggestions?

1-4-1 had just come back from the long and tiring mission. They were glad they could take a few days off, maybe they could join you on your vacation. It had been long since you all gathered for something other than missions.

1-4-1 Walked the hall, bags under their eyes with Alejandro and Ruby by their side. It was surprising when they joined them on the way back. As they were about to enter the kitchen for a cup of tea and some for a cup of whiskey, your voice suddenly was heard a few steps away.

"GUYS!" They turned to see you walking towards them with a friendly smile. You were wearing casual clothes, a simple white sleeveless t-shirt and jeans, but god did it look good on you, especially now that your hair was down.

When did your hair grow this tall? Has it been this long since they saw you?

You hugged each one of them, "Hello love?" Soap hugged you taking in your fresh smell, you smelled like flowers, and it relaxed him. He was now safe and sound, with you in his arms. They all thought the same, they missed you so much it broke their heart to see how you changed in the time they have left.

"How are you, Captain?" Price had a special place in your heart, you loved him a little more than the others since you worked under him and know him longer than the others. Price could say the same, he practically trained and raised you. You were his favourite soldier and person.

"Alejandro! Rudy!" A smile broke into your face as you saw the two soldiers, "Oh my God! I hadn't seen you two in years!" You kissed their cheeks and as oblivious as usual, you didn't notice the red on their cheeks. "Mi amor, we missed you too!" He hugged you. "You had grown taller!" You rolled your eyes, "I was always this tall.".

Alejandro shook his head "No, you were this tall!" He grinned teasingly, as showed you how short you had been, it is true with the training you had grown taller. Before you give one of your special sarcastic remarks Rudy took you in his arms for the second time. "Even so you are still beautiful" He whispered in your ears, making you shiver.

Did this man not know the effect he has on you?

"Thank you, Rudy." You smiled and as you were about to compliment him, you were stolen by Ghost. The sudden show of affection in public did take you off guard, but you hugged him back, not thinking much of it. "How is my favourite Riper?" He asked with a deep voice, you can hear the smiled in his voice, and you almost whistled.

God, are you testing my self-control?

"I am your only Riper, Ghost." You responded smirking, "But seriously I have missed you all." You hugged him, showing all the emotions your mouth couldn't mutter. You were truly scared when they weren't back last month, not only that but the base had lost contact with them, and you haven't heard anything from them for a whole month, but now they were back, you finally realised you could have lost them forever. "No more mission without me" You announced firmly, your tone expressing how you weren't accepting no arguments.

Price nodded smiling in sympathy, as he watched your eyes water. You broke the hug and went to Gaz, " Well isn't this my favourite boy?" You kissed his cheek, hugging him. "Hey! I thought I was your favourite!" Soap commented pouting, which made you laugh and everyone joined. It was a happy moment "How are you? I hope you didn't miss me too much?" He winked, smirking.

Okay, what the hell happened in the mission?

You smiled confusedly at their sudden change of character. Ghost who would rather die than show affection outside the closed door just hugged you, Rudy, the silent boy, complimented you and Gaz just flirted with you?

"Why are you here, not that I am not happy to see you or anything, but aren't on vacation in Hawaii or something?" Soap asked, "Yes, I was going but then I changed my mind, I didn't want to travel without you. It would have been boring." That was only half the truth. You were scared, to say the least. You were terrified of what may happen in your absence, so you stayed, and the worse thing did happen. You lost contact for a month and even then, you were forbidden from going to look for them.

You smiled through the pain of the memories and asked, "So what are you guys planning to do?" You all entered the kitchen, "Sit, I will get everything ready" You softly commanded, taking your place behind the small bar. It was built for 1-4-1 to relax when they are no missions. "Well... I don't know, sleep first and then I will see" As usual Soap was the first to respond, and everyone nodded. Sleep was now their priority. You smiled when suddenly your eyes widen in realisation and you stopped your movement, "Oh, I had completely forgotten about that!"

"What is it that you have completely forgotten about?" Gaz raised an eyebrow, " As you may know, I act in my free time and at the end of this week, I am going to perform live on the stage." You smiled proudly; it was hard to pursue your hobby when you didn't have much free time. "Wait!" Alejandro stood up walking towards you, with wide eyes. "You act?" He asked holding both of your hands. " Rudy, ¿Escuchaste? Nuestro amante es una actriz." (Rudy, did you hear? Our lover is an actress.).

You just stared as Rudy smiled like a sick lover boy and a happy puppy Alejandro.

What did he say?

Well, either way, you smiled tilting your head, it was best not to comment or demand a translation because none of them will give it. "So, when this live performance will be?" Price asked, and you took back your hand from Alejandre and passed Price the ticket you have been hiding in your pocket. It was just today that you were able to print it. Price stared and all the boys stood to read it with him, the performance was two weeks from today. "Do want us to come?" Gaz asked but you can see the answer in his eyes. Soap was giving you the puppy eyes "Sure" you laughed, "you don't have to use the puppy eyes, Soap" You wrapped an arm around his neck and grinned, you really had gotten tall. "I would have invited you either way." The man lighted up like a Christmas tree.

Was he really this happy just because I invited him?

You let him go and stepped to continue preparing their teas and liquor.

(time skip)

You were behind the stage getting your make-up done. You had your clothes on and the director was behind you making sure everything worked, but you didn't pay him any attention, your mind with your phone. You had been waiting for a call from 1-4-1 and Alejandro and Rudy, but none had called. You had tried but none answered, not after you sent them the invitation in their personal emails.

Did they change their mind?

You bit your nails until one of the make-up artists stopped you. You were now stressed; you had wished they could see you. You had been training for so long even when there was no time. You spent sleepless nights, not because you wanted to be good for the public but for your friends and now with Alejandro and Rudy here you were over the moon, but now none of them was coming.

Your train of thought was cut short when the director placed a hand on your shoulder signalling to you that they were ready for you on stage. You nodded mastering the best smile you could give and without waiting time you stood up, waiting for the final signal to walk on stage. "Your micro is ready?" One of the staff asked and you nodded.

Damn it! You can't talk. The stress had finally got to you, I guess you weren't strong as you guessed you were. You sighed, taking two breaths, and the Staff nodded when the red light shone, and you were ready to be sent to stage.

Ten minutes into acting, you had relaxed, and your shoulder was down, and when your character was supposed to be annoyed, you did what any annoyed person will do and just like how you practised, you turned to the crowd avoiding looking at the other actor. Your eyes unconsciously searched for your team, and you found them they were sitting in the first row. Your eyes almost watered and you had to use all the straight you could gather to control yourself from running towards them.

Soap, as usual, was grinning from ear to ear, Price had a proud look, a proud dad look. For Ghost, well...you couldn't see his expression under that mask, but you definitely can see his eyes twinkle under the fait lights. Gaz more focused on the story and the actors but he smiled and cheered when your eyes meet. Alejandro had a serious look, but you can pick the pride dancing in his eyes. For Rudy, he smiled shyly once he saw you looking at him.

An hour passed and you finally finished. The director and your fellow actors stood on the stage bowing to the audience. You, of all people, were smiling the brighter as your locket with your team, nothing matters more than their presence and their loud cheers.

You all left to take the make and costumes off, and some of the other actors had interviews so they are staid while you sneak out before the director can ask you to do the same. You were excited that they indeed were here to stay another second behind the stage.

Once outside, you took your phone and called but before you could put your phone on your ear two strong arms hugged your waist, you almost pushed the person if you hadn't recognised his smell of cologne.

"You were amazing." Said Soap, with a smile you responded "I know". He laughed spinning you around as he praised you over and over again with sweet words and kisses all around your face as you giggled.

"Okay, I think that's enough kissing." You weren't expecting Ghost to be the one to stop Soap, seeing as the latter was practically his boyfriend, and was that jealousy in his eyes.

You shipped the two together forever, they were close to the hip, you can never see Ghost without Soap and you can never see Soap without Ghost.

You were so deep into your head that you hadn't noticed Alejandro approaching you. You didn't acknowledge his presence until his arms were secured around your neck while the other was ruffling your hair. "You did good, niñita." He smiled as you scrawled at the mess he made with your head and before you could complain Price appeared with Gaz driving the car. "Come on, we are going to celebrate." He said and you all entered the first and second car.

Let's get freaky tonight.

[starkwlkr]

omg can you write charles reaction to baby leclerc first kindergarten boyfriend and how jealous he would be 🥹🥹

no boys allowed | charles leclerc

in honor of my birthday, here’s one more baby leclerc fic <3

Ruby woke up ten minutes earlier than she should’ve. It was a new school day and she was more excited than ever. While her mom slept peacefully, Ruby was in her bathroom trying to untangle her hair, but each time she would end up with a knot in it. She gave up and ran to her mom and dad’s room with a brush stuck in her hair.

“Mama, I need help. Mama, wake up.” Ruby poked Y/n’s cheek repeatedly until her eyes fluttered open.

“Baby, what? What’s wrong?” Y/n rubbed her tired eyes. She then saw the mess on Ruby’s head. “Oh, baby girl.”

Y/n was alone with the kids since Charles was coming back from Italy for his home race. Mathéo slept in his nursery. Y/n got out of bed and took Ruby to her bathroom to fix the tangled hair.

“Why did you do this, Ruby?” The mother asked.

“Because I want to look pretty for my boyfriend!”

Y/n choked on her own saliva when she heard Ruby mention the word ‘boyfriend’. “When did this happen, Rubes? Does papa know?”

Of course Charles didn’t know. If he did, he would immediately change Ruby to a different school. Even if it was a pretend boyfriend, Ruby was still too young to be thinking about boys in his eyes. Thank god Charles wasn’t home.

“Yesterday he told me he loves me. Papa doesn’t know . . Yet! Can I tell him?” Ruby jumped up and down, eager to tell her papa about her love life.

“Not right now, baby. He’s working. But you can tell me all about him. What’s his name?” Y/n asked as she continued to brush through Ruby’s hair.

“His name is Ben and we’re getting married! Can you be my flower girl, mama? And uncle arthur can give us a ring.” Ruby said. “I want uncle pierre and kika to be at my wedding. I love Kika.”

Y/n chuckled. Ruby reminded Y/n of a younger version of herself, planning out her dream wedding, not having a single stressful moment. Y/n wished her Ruby would stay little forever.

“Okay, all done. Go get dressed, I have to get your brother ready.” Y/n pressed a kiss to the top of Ruby’s head and watched as the little girl ran off to her room. Before Y/n walked to Mathéo’s nursery, she grabbed her phone and texted Charles.

Y/n

Good morning my love. I’m going to take Ruby to school and when you get home, I have news to tell you. It’s important.

Charles

Good morning mon amour❤️ tell Ruby I love her and I miss her. Are you not going to give me a hint? I can’t wait that long

Y/n

Well it’s about our daughter. That’s all I’m telling you.

Charles

You’re an evil woman

I love you ❤️

Y/n

Love you more 🥰

She left her phone on her nightstand and walked to Mathéo’s room where he was not laying awake staring at the ceiling. “Good morning my little boy. Let’s get you ready for the day.”

After both kids were dressed, the Leclerc family was on their way to school. Ruby kept telling her mother about Ben and how good he was at drawing, counting from 1 to 100 and apparently he knew about f1 because of his dad. The school wasn’t that far away from their home so they walked.

“When is papa coming home?” Ruby asked.

“He should be here tomorrow or maybe even today.” Replied Y/n. Mathéo squealed from his spot in his stroller. “You’re exiting to see papa, Théo? He misses you too.”

“I can tell him about Ben! Can Ben come to the race with us? Please mama!” Ruby stopped walking to face her mother.

“I don’t know, Ruby. We have to talk to his parents first.”

When Ruby got to school, she refused to set foot into the classroom until Ben arrived. Five minutes later, a little boy with a Ferrari cap on ran towards Ruby and hugged her.

“Ben! Don’t run! You’ve tripped enough already!” A woman about Y/n’s age scolded the boy.

“Mama! He’s Ben, my boyfriend!” Ruby yelled as Ben put his arm around her shoulder.

“Nice to meet you Ben. I’m Ruby’s mom.” Y/n said to the little boy.

“So I guess we’re in laws?” Ben’s mom laughed. “I’m Clara, Ben’s mom. I’ve heard so many things about your little girl. Were you invited to their ‘wedding’?” Clara asked.

Y/n nodded. “You’re looking at the flower girl.” She joked.

“I’m jealous, Ben told me I have to pay for the whole thing!”

After school, Pascale, Lorenzo and Arthur would always arrive at Y/n and Charles’ house just to spend time together. Ruby absolutely loved it. This time, Charles joined since he had taken an early flight from Italy so when he got home, he found Ruby and Arthur doing some crafts on the kitchen table while Pascale, Y/n and Lorenzo were with Baby Mathéo in the living room.

“Papa!” Ruby threw her crayon on the table and ran to Charles.

Charles let his suitcase fall to the ground. He wrapped his arms around Ruby and picked her up, spinning her a couple time as she laughed. “You didn’t cause any trouble, did you?” He kissed her cheek.

“No! I’m a very good girl. Ask mama and Théo!” Ruby giggled.

“Okay, I’ll ask them right now.” Charles set her down and turned his attention to the rest of his family. “How was my boy while I was gone? Was Ruby good?” He sat next to Y/n on the sofa.

“He didn’t cry at night often, but he did miss his papa a lot.” Y/n passed the baby to Charles. “And yes, she was an angel.”

“Just him and Ruby missed me?” Charles teased.

“I missed you!” Arthur spoke from the kitchen table.

“Anyone else missed me? Anybody?” Charles looked around, ignoring Arthur. “I’m kidding, I missed all of you.”

“Oh! The news! Ruby, want to tell papa now?” Y/n prepared herself for Charles’ reaction. Everyone did.

“What news, Ruby?”

“I have a boyfriend!”

“Mon amour, grab Théo please.”

Y/n took the baby from Charles’ arms and watched his confused face.

“Baby, you can’t have a boyfriend.” Charles said to Ruby. “You’re too young and he is too.”

“But I already made him a card! Uncle Arthur is helping me!” Ruby pointed at Arthur, who immediately dropped the marker from his hands and froze.

“Arthur! Why are you helping my daughter make a card for a boy?!”

“She didn’t tell me it was for her boyfriend.” Arthur defended himself.

“Yes I did. I said ‘uncle arthur can you help me make a card for my boyfriend?’ and you said yes.” Ruby innocently said.

“I thought she was joking.”

Charles shook his head. He knew it wasn’t a real relationship but he still didn’t like the idea of his little girl already thinking about boys and relationships.

“And you haven’t even heard the best part yet. They’re getting married.” Lorenzo added followed by a loud laugh.

“No one is getting married!” Charles announced.

“So you and mama aren’t getting married?” Ruby asked.

“We are married, baby.” Y/n said confused.

“But Ben’s parents got married two times. He told me.”

“So his name is Ben. Where does he live?” Charles asked and before Ruby could answer, Pascale hit his arm. “Maman! This Ben can’t date my daughter!”

“They’re kids, Charles.” Pascale said, bringing in her granddaughter for a hug.

“You’re telling me you’ve never had a girlfriend when you were a little kid?” Y/n asked Charles. Not that he could remember, no he never did that.

“And you had a boyfriend when you were little?” Charles rolled his eyes, and watched Y/n stay silent. “No, someone was your boyfriend before me?!”

“This isn’t about me, now excuse me I have to practice my flower girl skills before the big wedding.”

[ooo-yeah-baby]

im the anon from earlier lol

can i request a yandere gilbert blythe where it's his and the readers' wedding day? and then maybe including at the end them "cuddling" in bed together but it's really him holding her tightly whispering about some future together while she cries

sorry if that's a little morbid, i just thought it'd be a cool part two to the first one you posted

Arranged Pt 2

Yandere Gilbert Blythe x reader

I only write sfw, feel free to make requests. Thank you for asking!! Kinda short and not proof read. Enjoy :)

I love you..." his voice rings in your ears. 

"You're so beautiful..." his words make your skin crawl. 

"Are you listening?" You have no choice. 

From the moment your mother made you let him in to the note on the school board to shuffling down the isle this morning, you were miserable. 

Possibly the only enjoyable part of this was seeing how proud your mother was the whole way through. She had fixed up her old wedding dress and fitted it to you. She made you up like a doll for the ceremony. And as your father walked you down the isle you could see tears falling from her eyes. He was so happy. It would have been discomforting if you had thought too much into it though.

Gilbert stared in astonishment as you walked down the aisle in the church. When you arrived at the altar you wanted so badly to repeat the same actions as  Prissy had. Run out of the church and into the field. But you couldn't bring yourself to do it.

After the ceremony the reception was held. Your family and friends all told stories of both you and Gilbert- which were very much exaggerated for the occasion. 

Anne had written a poem, Josey made a few snide comments, Ruby talked up every interaction you'd had with Gilbert as if she hadn't been in love with him just a year ago.

It all made you so sick that you couldn't even swallow your food. 

Finally you were here. In Gilbert's home. Bash in the room next door caring for his baby, and Gilbert hugging you from behind, his face in the crook of your neck. 

"Are you listening Y/N?" He repeats, giving your body a small squeeze. You nod, tears sliding down your cheeks and over your nose. "I'm sorry..." he takes a deep breath. 

"For what?" You ask, knowing the answer. He'd done this countless of times in the last few months. Apologizing but never changing. 

"I want you to be happy..." you don't respond. It's easier to tune him out. "I'm aware you didn't want thus marriage..." you've fought him every step of the way on this. "So I'm sorry for forcing this onto you..." he's not sorry. He's quite right happy with himself. "But I do love you." The tears begin streaming down your face. "and I'll make sure you're happy. We can have a happy little family- if you want!" He stutters a bit. "We don't have to have kids if you don't want any. It's up to you." He thinks for a second. "It could just be us- and Bash and Delphine, of course."

This isn't love, to you. It's possession. It's kidnapping. It's grotesque and disgusting. Love is supposed to be flowery and sweet.

Maybe you could've had a real romance if Gilbert had approached you correctly; Walked up to you in class, talked to you about your day, invited you over for a nice meal and took your wants and needs into consideration. But that's not what he did. He went to your parents, who gave him his guaranteed spouse. It was as if nothing you thought or felt mattered. 

"I love you, Y/N..." he leans over and kisses you on the cheek. "You don't have to say it back." Then reaches over and blows out the candle. 

You rub your eyes dry and your cheek raw. 

[mushrubes]

Arguments

Masterlist | Call of duty masterlist |

Requested : no

Based on character ai { John Price by @/zwombite }

Pairing :Captain John Price x reader

Pronouns : you/yours

Type :  angst + fluff

Word count : 692

Content: established relationship, argument, slightly ooc + non canonical <3

Have a great day !! <3

————

You and Price hadn't always come to an agreement when it came to some things in your relationship. He was set in his own ways. There was no changing it. But of course, he had to be a dick about it. In an argument you were trying to explain your side of things, raising your voice so you could be heard by him. But he took it all the wrong way. "You're being immature, Ruby. Stop acting like a child." He huffed, trying to ridicule you for being significantly younger. "Then listen to me for once, price!" you groaned, holding your head in your hand in disbelief. Price rolled his eyes and snorted. "There you go again, always taking things so personal. Grow up, seriously." He scoffed. "Stop overreacting."

"Screw you. Screw this." You scoffed, picking up my drink and walking out of his office. Price didn't even try to chase after you. He was well used to this behaviour by now. You'd be back to grovel within the hour anyway. "Don't be so immature, Ruby," he called out in a mocking tone. "I'm going to clear my head before I say something I regret!" you huffed, walking through the corridor and going outside, sitting just outside the training area. You found some seclusion in a corner of the yard. It was a peaceful escape from that loud moron. But you were too angry to appreciate the tranquillity. You sat there nursing your anger and trying to understand where the relationship went south. He used to be sweet and caring. So why is he acting like… a dick now? You thought. You sat down in front of the tree, head in your arms, soft sobs escaping you.

You started to cry quietly. It was a relief to finally let your feelings out. Suddenly you were aware of a presence nearby. Someone stood in front of you, but you were too distraught to look up at them. You don't push him away as you feel him wrap his arms around you. You felt a pair of strong arms wrap around you, a masculine body leaning over you, comforting you in your sorrow. You looked up and saw Price, his expression softened, gazing at you with concern. You didn't expect this from him at all. "I'm sorry," he whispered, caressing the back of your head. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry." you repeated, sobbing into his chest. Price hugged you tightly. "I was an idiot," he murmured. "It's been a tough day and I took my stress out on you. I shouldn't have done that. I'm sorry." You noticed his eyes were sparkling with remorse. He seemed genuinely apologetic now. "I'm so sick of all this arguing, price." your voice a whisper as you looked at him.

Price loosened his grip as you spoke, giving you space. "I know." He said quietly, his tone gentle. "We got off on the wrong foot. I don't want us fighting anymore, I promise." Then he gently took your hands. "I'm not going anywhere. We'll work things out, okay? It's not the end of the world. And I'll do better." he promised, his voice genuine. You hug him tightly, burying your face into his chest. Price strokes your hair as you hug him, soothing you and comforting you in the moment. He seems completely different from the brash jerk you used to know.

He's kind and caring now, and you can see a flicker of love in his eyes. Suddenly you feel a spark of attraction, your anger dissipating as you melt into his embrace. He's so much stronger than you and so attractive. You don't want to let go. Price's expression softens even more as you utter those three words. All traces of sternness or arrogance melt away, making him look completely vulnerable. He looks down at you with adoring eyes, taking in every detail of your face. He lowers his head and kisses you gently. He wraps you in his arms, kissing your lips softly and lovingly. The kiss lasts for several long seconds, Price reluctant to pull away but eventually doing so.

"I love you too."

[bridgyrose]

Ruby smiled weakly as she watched Penny’s eyes light up again, her fingers shook as she waited for Penny to reboot. Months of working with Peitro and Winter in secret had finally brought the results she’d been hoping for. Penny was finally back. 

“Where… where am I?” Penny asked as she slowly sat up. “I do not recognize this place.” 

“We’re in Vacuo,” Ruby answered as she walked over to Penny and pulled her into a hug. “Its a long story, but… that can wait. You’re back. You’re… you’re really back.” 

Penny slowly hugged Ruby and rubbed her back. “I… I died, didnt I?” 

Ruby slowly pulled away from Penny and sat down next to her, not sure when her legs had started to feel tired from standing. “You did. Weiss and Jaune did everything they could to save you, but they couldnt. But that doesnt matter. What matters is that you’re back and we can start catching up on missed time.” 

“Are you sure you do not need to rest first? You look tired.” 

“I’m fine,” Ruby said as she stood up again and offered a hand to Penny. “Will you at least come home with me?” 

Penny nodded and took Ruby’s hand. “Of course.” 

Ruby relaxed a bit and helped Penny up. Her heart fluttered as she helped prop her up and walked out of the workshop and out to the streets. She squinted her eyes as the light stung for a moment while her eyes adjusted to the light. Not that she was worried, it was normal after her long nights while trying to rebuild Penny with Pietro’s schematics. 

Still, she walked down the streets of Vacuo with her arm around Penny’s, glad that she was still the same from the last time she saw her four years ago. The way she talked, the way she moved, how her skin felt and the smile that crossed her face… all of it exactly as it had been before.

“Where is Weiss?” Penny asked. “And Blake and Yang? Why are they not with you?” 

“They’re around, somewhere,” Ruby said quietly. “But that doesnt matter right now. All that matters is that we catch up and-” 

“Ruby, are you sure you are okay?” 

Ruby paused in her step and finally caught a glimpse of her reflection. Her eyes werent the vibrant silver they used to be, a few streaks of grey stained her hair, even her skin was more pale than usual. With a soft sigh, she looked away from her reflection and continued to walk with Penny. “I-I’m fine, really. Sure, I probably could be taking better care of myself, but I’m fine.” 

“Is that why you dont know where your team is?” 

“Pen-” 

“You do not seem to be like yourself. I remember you always having a genuine smile but now, its like you are hiding who you are from yourself.” 

Ruby went quiet for a moment as she tried to find a lie to tell Penny. It was hard enough to remember that her team went their separate ways after Salem was stopped, and even harder to accept that it’d been a couple years since she even tried to talk to them. Especially since she hid away to get Penny back. “Home isnt much farther. Once we get there we can relax-” 

“Not until you’re more yourself,” Penny said. 

Ruby hesitated as Penny pulled away, no longer looking at her. “I am me.” 

“You are different. What did you give up in order to bring me back?” 

“I… I did what I had to.” Ruby let her aura down as it shimmered with a few small holes. “Part of my aura, part of my life… I couldnt live without you. My team… they didnt understand and left. But none of that matters if that means I can have you in my life again.” 

Penny looked at Ruby once more, where a soft smile had normally crossed her lips now sat a look of pity. “That is not the Ruby I want in my life.” 

Ruby could only watch as Penny walked away, frozen in place as her body refused to move. All that effort to bring her back, and now she was leaving her. Again. But deep down, she knew Penny was right. She had given up too much for the person she had loved.

[juanarc-thethird]

Not so innocent

In an Inn on the outskirts of Atlas. Yang and Penny are having tea while waiting for Jaune to return from his mission.

Jaune: *Opens the door* I'm back.

Yang: What kept you so long?

Jaune: Oh, the Grimm was bigger than they described. I had to get creative.

Yang: Creative?

Jaune: I'm sorry but we can talk about this tomorrow. I'm very tired.

Yang: Ok and since you say that, here is the key to your room. You will share a room with Penny.

Penny: *Waves her hand with her famous smile*

Jaune: *Panic* Wait What?!

Yang: Relax, the room has two beds.

Jaune: Can I change rooms?!

Yang: Why do you want to change rooms?

Jaune: Well...

Penny: *Sad* You really don't like the idea of sharing the room with me?

Yang: Look what you did Jaune, you made her sad. *Hugs Penny* Don't worry, Penny, he didn't mean that.

Jaune: I... I do mean that.

Yang: *Gasp* JAUNE?!

Jaune: Sorry but I have my reasons! Can I change rooms?

Yang: No, everyone is already in their rooms asleep.

Jaune: Can I change with you?

Yang: *Angry* You want to sleep with my sister?!

Jaune: *Blushing* What?! NO!

Yang: *Surprise* You want to sleep with me?!!

Jaune: *Red* NO!!! Stop saying in it like that!!!

Yang: Then sleep with Penny! Goodnight!! *Leaves*

Jaune: *Worry* But...

In the distance you can hear a door slam shut. Jaune is silent and then Penny spoke.

Penny: Looks like we'll be sharing a room again~ *Giggles*

Meanwhile

Yang: *Sighs* What a day.

Ruby: *Wakes up* Sis, what happened?

Yang: Oh don't worry, it was just Jaune being himself.

Ruby: Um.. what?

Yang: Jaune doesn't want to share a room with Penny?

Ruby: Why? I thought they two got along well.

Yang: He didn't tell me why, but he was desperate to change rooms. He asked me if he could sleep in the same room with you.

Ruby: Wait what?!

Yang: Yes, and then I said no.

Ruby: YOU SAID NO!!!!! What kind of sister are you?!!

Yang: Excuse me?!

Ruby: Arrg! Whatever. There's always another time. I just hope Penny isn't doing that.

Yang: What do you mean by "doing that"? Ruby… what do you mean by "doing that"?!

Back with the other two.

Jaune and Penny are in their assigned room, enjoying their privacy. The two of them are lying naked on one of the beds. Jaune has his mouth gagged with Penny's panties and at the same time his hands are handcuffed to the head of the bed, while Penny is fucking him passionately.

Penny: You didn't want to share the room with me, huh?

Jaune: Mm MhMR~💕!

Penny: You'll never get rid of me, ok? I know what you like. I know what turns you on. I know that you like it when a girl takes control of you~ *Moves her hips faster*

Jaune: FMmm~💕!!!

Penny: You are mine, and no one else's. Do you understand?

Jaune: Mhm~💕!

Penny: *smiling* Good, now I want you to cum in me~ *Squeezes his cock with her pussy*

Jaune: MMmm!!!

Penny: Come on Jaune, I want you to cum inside of me

Jaune: MMhM~💕!

Penny: Don't fight it, just cum for me. *She begins to move her hips more roughly* Come on Jaune, cum for me~

Jaune: MFMM~💕!

Penny: *Heart eyes* Shit! I'm close. Just cum in me, cum in me, cum in me, cum in me!!!~

Jaune: FMHMM~💕!!!

Penny: Oh Fuck! I can feel it! I can fell your cock twitching! You're about to come right?!! Fuck!!! Come on Jaune! Fill me up already!!!

Jaune: HMML DMN!!!

Penny: Oh God!!! *Angry* Cum Already!!! SHIT!!!!

Jaune: Mh Fmmh! Mh FmmH! MH FMMMMMMH~❤️‍🔥!!!

He shoots his hips into the air, lifting Penny off the bed for a moment and filling her with all his cum.

Penny: OH FUCK YES, FEEL ME UP~💕!!

She could feel Jaune's hot cum filling every hole in her pussy. Her legs shake, her toes curl, and she tries to support herself on Jaune's chest. After a while, she turns to Jaune to see how he is doing. After all, she has to take care of his man~

Jaune: *breathing heavily*

Penny: *Smiles and removes her underwear from his mouth* Good job~💕

Jaune: Are we done?

Penny: Oh no, we're just getting started~😈

She takes Jaune's face with both hands and begins to make out with him, while she begins to move her hips once more.

[echantedtoon]

Ocean Deep Ch6 A Slight Change In Planning

Warnings: Mentioned kidnapping and mistreatment of the mermaids. Mentioned death.)

@six-eyed-samurai

The warm sun shown down on the bright sand matching the golden colors of the sand grains making up the beautiful scenery. The waves gently lulled against the grinding grains. Golden sand meeting blue water as the waves gently hugged them good morning. 

Water hugged up to her waist as she giggled and dug herself deeper into the soft squishy sand just under the waves near the waves. She was so close to the surface all she really had to do was just sit up and push up a foot or two more and her head would poke right out of the water. One should always be careful when near the surface especially if humans were about but she couldn't help it. The sand was so soft and comfy. She was just curling herself into the comfort of it all.

"It looks like you're having fun." A hand held up a newly caught tuna. It still wriggled about in his hand trying to get away. He would've already skewered it but the sight of her giggling at her own fun and enjoyment.

"IT'S SO SOFT!! We should get some of this sand for our seabed! Makio's always complaining about the bed being too hard!"

"Heh. You think so?"

"I know so! ..But I'm hungry now!"

He blinked- "Pfft. Hahaha! You got hungry just from doing nothing but rolling around in the sand like a guppy?" He couldn't help the laugh he gave her. It was so random it was amusing. Of course the pout she gave her with her puffed out cheeks was also a bonus.

"It's not funny! I am hungry! You're just making fun of me for not eating anything yet!"

"Well it's a good thing I make sure to provide for my wives." He loved the way her big blue eyes just widened as he just held out the wriggling fish in his hand. "Looky here. I just happened to remember your favorite."

"HHHHHAAAA!!! TUNA!!" If she wasn't already underwater, her mouth would be drooling. "YOU GOT IT JUST FOR ME?!"

"But of course. I can spoil you all I want..Just don't tell Hina about this. She's still on my case on giving you that entire net's worth of shrimp for yourself."

"AAAAHHH!! You didn't have to do this!"

A hand placed itself on her head making her look up to the smiling face staring down on her. 

"Yes. I do have to. I also want to do this for you. After all, you deserve it so much, Suma. I'll catch you as much as your heart desires. Ok? So don't worry about it. I'll always take care of my girls."

"Aaaaaaahhhahahaaaaa!"

You had jumped as Suma doubled over and fell to her side in a crying fit, curling up in the fetal position. A fresh new stream of tears flowed down her tears and staining her eyes red. You were stunned by the sudden reaction completely unmoving and silent for a long moment before you looked at Hinatsuru next to you and seeing the pink eyed mermaid looking just as stunned as you but she looked much paler. Her pretty ruby jewelry stood out against her pale face. You looked behind you at Makio who had the same expression as her wife. You looked back to Suma as her sobs picked up in volume sobbing her eyes out in the fetal position and holding her clasped hands to her chest. After another few seconds you unsurely spoke-

"What's a...Tengen??" That's what she said right?

"A A A A A A H H H H H H!!!!!"

Your words had the opposite effect. Body jumping as Suma W A I L E D loud enough to probably shake your windows if this room had any! In a panic you held up hands in a comfort pose. If someone heard her then there might be trouble.

"Hey! I- it's ok! I'm sorry for asking! You need to calm down before someone hears you!" Two hands awkwardly patted her back in a vain attempt to comfort the gasping mermaid. "There, there! It's ok! Everything's ok- AH!!"

Without warning Suma threw herself at you completely throwing her arms around you and pulling you into a bone crushing bear hug. Her face buried itself into your shoulder as her ugly gasps and sobs continued..Um. Ok. This was happening you guessed. At least her voice was muffled now. 

"There, there??" You again awkwardly patted her back in an attempt to calm her down half expecting Makio to yell at her again to stop being a crybaby but oddly both were silent. "Look. Whatever upset you I'll fix. Ok? " You tried appeasing her to try and calm her down. "Shh. Shh." You hugged her back to you pulling her closer and patting the back of her head. "If it's the fish, I'll throw it out and just get you something else. How about that?"

Her only answer was the ugly crying wetting your shoulder. What just happened? One moment you were just sitting down having a good time and the next there was...Well this. What could've gotten into her that made her cry? Well cry more seriously than she usually does. Behind you Makio's eyes trailed from your head to Suma's hands gripping your back- 

?!

"What the-" Your head snapped back over your shoulder as you felt Makio just RIP away Suma's hand from your back nearly tearing a hole in the fabric of your dress. "What are you doing?!"

She said nothing as she just desperately forced her counterpart to open her palm only to tear out what was inside it. Makio's face if possible became even more pale than before as she finally got a good look at what it was sitting in her palm. The little Silver stones clinked together as they were jostled in her palms.

"Hina!" 

Wordlessly Hinatsuru leaned over to look at what Makio thrusted at her, and fell silent and wide eyed as her eyes fell upon the strand of stones. After a stunned moment of silence she silently took the strand from Makio to gently hold on her own hands. As she was beside you, you were able to finally see what was being passed around and saw they were holding-..

A string of stones??

Your brows rose as you just stared at it. It was a strand of plain looking but obviously cut and polished silvery grey stones. That's what made her cry? 

"What's that?"

"Tengen." Her answer was brief, blunt, and devoid of any emotion. 

That caught your attention. Your brows raised. F/c eyes looked at the strand of strange stones in Hina's hands in question. That's 'tengen'?? What the heck was 'tengen'?? A type of rock? Didn't sound like any type of rock you knew.

"What's 'Tengen'?"

"Tengen Uzui. He's our husband."

HUSBAND?! F/c went wide looking between her and then to Suma (who was still crying into your shoulder and had knocked the fish she gave you out of your lap-) and the to Makio who looked about ready to cry herself and then back to look at the stones in Hina's hands. That was their husband?? Well they did mention once about having two husbands on top of being each other's wife. ... Mermaid marriages were very strange. But no. Wait a second. It wouldn't make sense for them to be married to a strand of rocks. Did the rocks belong to this Tengen man?

"And these are his?", you asked gesturing one hand to the rocks.

Hinatsuru shakily nodded. "Yes. We'd recognize them even if we were blind." She looked at the basket of fish before back to you. "Where did you get those fish?"

"The butcher's. I told you that-"

"THEY'RE GONNA MAKE HIM INTO F-F-FOOOOOODDD!! AAAAAAAHHHAHAHAAAAA!!!"

You winced as Suma wailed again right next to your ear. "Ow! He's not gonna be butchered! The entire shop is an open space." You could literally walk in and see them cutting and the store room where the meat was kept to be dried, seasoned, or jerkied. "If there was any mermaids in there, I would've literally seen him. It's more likely that his ...rocks just got caught up in one of the fishing nets and transported here by accident." You took the chance to grab Suma's fish and toss it back into the basket where it landed on top of the others with a wet splat sound.

"Then that means he's close by." Hina's face lit up as she looked at you with wide eyes. "Where did these fish come from?"

"They're some of the last ones our sea boats could carry." You explained raising a brow. "Lately some rouge sirens having been sinking any ships  that's leaving the nearest port at the beach, so most of the men have been taking to leaving for other bodies of water nearby for our goods. That's why most of the overstock has been so cheap." Or free in your case.

"Tengen!!"

"AH!!"

You were suddenly shaken back and forth by Suma who finally pulled away from your shoulder only to grab and start shaking you with inhuman strength.

"HE'S DOING ALL OF THIS TRYING TO FIND US!! I KNEW HE WOULDN'T GIVE UP!! HE LOVES US TOO MUCH!!" She sobbed and wailed as she shook your body. "HE'S SO CLOSE BY-!!!"

"SUMA!! Quit shaking her before you bust her brain!!" Makio angrily grabbed your shoulders and halter your movements. Your eyes rolled around before shaking your dizzy head.

"Oops..Sorry. But he's here!! He's really here!!" Suma gushed happily grabbing her cheeks and smiling widely. "I mean not here-here but it's so close if something of his shows up right?!"

"It depends." Hinatsuru's expression and tone did not change from the blunt, far off stare she was giving the stones she still held before her hands slowly closed around them and she took an inhale before looking at you again. "How far away is the ocean from here?"

You blinked. "Uh. Well the nearest beach is a month away from here. Two weeks if by horse. But there's lots of rivers here that lead back to the ocean." You shuffled out of Suma's and Makio's grip. "That was kinda my plan from the beginning. I mean I wanted to make sure you three were strong enough to like swim through currents and stuff, and so I was gonna wait until the end of this month and then take you back up to the nearby river." As if to demonstrate you pointed north. "It'll eventually lead you back to the river."

"That won't work."

You blinked taken aback by Hinatsuru's blunt tone. You thought that was a good idea. "Why not? You guys would be home free!"

"If what you said I'd true about humans fishing in the rivers now, then there's the greater chance of us getting captured." You froze. "On top of that there's less safety than there would be in the oceans. It's not just humans and nets that pose a danger to us."

You... hadn't even thought about that honestly. If you released them into the river then they could very likely get captured again, and that time they wouldn't have anyone to help them. They were lucky to have had you there, and that time you were lucky to not have been caught at all. 

"Oh..I uh.. Hadn't thought of that before. But that's good right? That your husband is close by-.. Wait." Your brain whirled a bit as it processed a piece of Intel that was previously said before you slowly looked at her with eyes the size of plates as reality slapped you across the face. "YOUR HUSBAND IS THE ONE SINKING OUR SHIPS?!"

Hinatsuru blinked. "I-...Well to be fair it's perfectly justified-"

"Justified?! Our whole town is a fishing and trading community!" You frowned hard at her. "For months our ships have been destroyed and our whole way of life has been altered! Half the town has been considering just up and moving away because of the depletion! Fish aren't just food for us, but a way of life!"

Who knows how much this will affect you after he stopped? IF he stopped. Less fish means less income. Less income means the families her will suffer more than they had been for the last few months! 

"He's VERY justified thank you!," Makio piped up again behind you, "And so were we! He's only doing this because all of the humans in this town are bigoted greedy assholes who want nothing more than to make us suffer!"...You blinked as two arms suddenly wrapped around your body in a semi hug. "Except you of course."

"Y/N'S not like that and all!! Don't make her hate us!!"

"IM NOT SEA SLUG FOR BRAINS!!"

You rose a brow at Makio like she didn't insult half your remaining family and friends in the town. "...Right." You decided not to comment on the basis that they did suffer from the hands of humans. "So how can we make him stop?"

"You can't." You froze again as Hinatsuru stared seriously but calmly. "If it really is Tengen, then he isn't going to stop until he gets what he wants."

"And..What is it that he wants?"

"Us. Of course."

"...How long exactly have you been gone from the ocean?"

She shook her head. "I lost track after we were brought here. How long has these attacks been happening?"

"Nearly a year now. It just started with rumors that a few boats in a different and far away area was experiencing but no one thought much of it." You shrugged as you felt Makio slowly start to untangle and comb through your hair again. "They were only rumors at the time and there was no way to really know if they were true. Plus even if it was it wasn't a concern. Sometimes ships sink because of the weather or the sailors are inexperienced. It happens. But-.."

"But?," Hinatsuru pressed raising a brow as you trailed off. 

You made an 'eeehhh' face with a roll of your wrist. "Strange things started happening."

"Like what things?" The way she was looking at and speaking to you reminded you of a mother or teacher interrogating a child.

"Well..A ship or two went missing along with everyone on it." You slumped your shoulders with a heavy sigh. "A lot of people were grieving over the massive losses." You'd never forget about all the crying faces and sorrow the families felt. By far that was the biggest mass funeral your town had ever seen. "And then the disappearances started to happen. Within the span of a few months four girls-" Your hand held up four fingers. "-went missing." No one had gone missing since you were a child. So the sudden disappearances made you scared. "And then more ships started to get damaged and sink and it just kept escalating and escalating until eventually the culprit was identified and now no one can even place a boat in the water because it'll just be torn up and sunk. No one could really stop them so they all started to fish in the nearby lakes and rivers instead."...You hummed. "Now that I think about it..All of the disappearances happened right at or close to the river." The three exchanged glances. "Would you three know anything about that?"

All three either shrugged or shook their heads. "No. Even if those disappearances were caused by someone we know, we couldn't have any way to know. We've been trapped, and hauled around like cargo for a long time."

"Hey. I know this might be a sensitive topic but how did you three get captured in the first place?"

"It was an accident at first." You rose a brow. "Really. It was. We were sleeping in a seabed and a net was scrapping along the seafloor. Caught us off guard and by the time we realized it, it was too late. The sailors were as surprised as you when you first found us..But as you can obviously guess, they didn't exactly have any ideas of letting us go."

"That must've been why he started sinking those ships."

Jeez! Just how strong WAS this single merman in he could sink solid thick wooden ships so easily?! You knew that these three alone were obviously very strong as they yanked you around. Were mermen stronger than mermaids?? Or was it just this one merman who was incredibly strong? It was so, so confusing. At least you had an understanding of the situation now. 

"Y/n can take us back can't she?!"

A duck sound went off in your mind. ..What?

"Gah!!" You were once again grabbed by the shoulders by Suma who lit up brightly smiling. 

"You can take us to the ocean right?! You already brought us here, so you can do that too! Right?!" And like dominos the other two looked at you expectantly.

"I-...*sigh* It's not that easy. I don't have anyway to travel with you all."

"HUH?! But why?! You  had that wagon."

"Had. Past tense. The wagon wasn't mine, and the owner already took it back weeks ago."

A tense silence passed over the four of you as wondering thoughts and realization take it's course. Eventually but quietly they moved. Makio started on your hair again and Hinatsuru picked up your hand once again to look at your nails. Suma was the only one who still looked ready to cry with her bottom lip quivering and and eyes watery. 

"You mean..W-We're never gonna ge-get home?"

"No!" Suma jolted as a hand clasped onto her arm. "I mean yes!" You held up your other hand despite Hina's protest. "You will get home. I-I just need some time to figure out what to do next, but I promise you I'm going to get you there... Somehow."

You just needed more time to figure out how you were going to do that...

It was a Wednesday morning when you came into work as usual. And as usual you saw Mrs. Henya glaring across from the street with an enraged scowl. Nothing too different for now at least. Your body only ignored her as you just made your way down the street and to the shop doors. You didn't want or need her targeting you next. You just pushed in the doors, stepped inside, and stepped inside- Only to freeze as a familiar face turned to look at you, and he smiled widely.

"Well if it isn't the most beautiful girl in town.~"

"Akira?!"

A dripping sound cascaded down on the surface of the water. It was really peaceful to watch and not at all harmful to anyone else who was under the water and watching the storm turn the top of the sea into rippling broken glass. Pink eyes gleamed up to the sky as she hummed and watched the pretty sight.

"Here you are. I was wondering where you were when I didn't find you in bed with the others."

She didn't have to turn around to know who that was. "I couldn't sleep. It kinda fascinating isn't it?" She gestured up to the surface. "If you were above it, you'd be knocked about and drowned but from down here it looks almost pretty. Like thousands of stones being tossed across the water. "

A chuckle was given as two arms wrapped around her body pulling her flush against a well toned and muscular chest. "Well it's a more flamboyant sight down here.~"

"Why do I get the feeling you're not talking about the Water's surface?" Her answer was a kiss to the top of her head. 

"I can't help that my wives are all visions of beauty.~ The first time I ever saw you scrounging around for lobsters, I thought 'there's a flashy woman who's gonna be my wife'."

"Mmm. I remember it differently."

"How so?"

"You stuttered when you tried talking to me and then you swam away when you panicked. I still think it was cute when you smacked into the dolphin swimming by."

"Hmph. I don't remember anything of the sort. You must be mistaken."

"And I suppose what really happened in your memory was me instantly swooning into your arms??"

"Well...maybe not instantly." If she could see his face, she would've seen him light up red in embarrassment as she giggled. "HEY! S-Shut up! I was totally under control the entire time!"

"Ok. If that's what you want to go by..But I still think it's cute when you stutter."

He grumbled just burying his face in her hair holding her tighter, making her giggle all the more.

"Hinatsuru? Hey, Hinatsuru!" 

Pink eyes blinked out of their dazed state. Gone was the soothing water and comfy hold around her body. Instead cold hard floor and a tub too small was what her eyes saw, along with a hand forcing a vegetable her way. A carrot it was called if she remembers right.

"Quit your daydreaming and eat. You're not doing yourself any favors by ignoring good food."

"Right...Not doing any of us any good."