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bumpkinspice0 · 2 months ago

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Take a Bullet

Logan Howlett/ Wolverine x Mutant!FemReader

Rating: Explicit

Word Count: 3.8k

Summary: “I’d raise hell. I’d tear down whatever took you away…but you’re still here. If the price of that is death, then I’ll pay it every goddamn time.” he lets the words linger. It almost stings when they start to sink in. Did he really think this was all he had to offer? Only his invulnerability, his strength? Of course it was. It’s all anyone ever told him he was worth. All anyone ever wanted from him. He did exactly what thought he should. What he was made for. Logan always thought he was anything except a man. An animal. Another expendable tool. OR Logan never told you he couldn't die, and it scares you how far he's willing to go to keep you safe.

AN: Just the briefest sprinkle of smut. Didn't feel right to go full feral in this one. This is another one that's vaguely tied to my first Logan fic HERE. Totally not required reading, reader just has the same powers and codename cause I'm lazy. She's an earthmover called Dozer. The GIF choice is incredibly unserious but I couldn't not

Warnings: Canon Typical Violence, injury, shock, Hurt/comfort, angst (obvi), Logan has some low self worth guys, Confessions of love, Protective!Logan, Smut, Tender sex

AO3 if you prefer to read there

Logan Masterlist

_______

You weren’t new to fighting. Hell, you’d been doing it most of your life. You were an X-man after all— but this was getting ridiculous.

They just kept coming.

You faced down the brotherhood countless times, fought gods and mad scientists— but a few dozen humans with guns was proving to be the most exhausting task you faced with the team. Their ranks were depleting, that much was true, but holy shit was this getting old.

“Dozer!” you hear Scott shout your codename from the left. “Barrier on the east entrance, quicksand for the ones approaching from the west!”

“Aye, aye, Captain!” you, a little less than enthusiastically, respond before plunging your fist into the dirt to change the very earth to your will.

As an earth-mover, you have the wonderful task of being both on defense and offense— well, mostly defense. A lot of defense. You could put up walls and literally stop people in their tracks. If all the firepower was focused outside, the job could be finished inside.

This was a prison break, after all.

“The last of them are out!” Jean’s voice crackles in your ear. “Let’s get the hell out of here!”

The last of the MRD facilities is finally falling. It’d been over a year since they’d been defunded and mutant registration was banned. Still, hate always found a way to limp on.

And limp on with a few hundred guns at that.

A stray bullet whizzes past your ear as you move behind a newly erected stone wall. You’d been at this for hours. You're tired. You’re slower and it’s making all of this a hell of a lot more dangerous.

“We need some support over here!” Scott screams into his comm, sliding behind the shelter next to you.

“North gate is clear. I’m coming to you!” You almost sigh in relief at the sound of Ororo’s voice. She’d be tasked with taking care of all other possible exits while you and Scott got the main entrance. With the power of flight and hurricane-level winds at her fingertips… Well, you always thought Storm could take care of herself better than the rest of the team.

The barrage of bullets stops as soon as there’s a crack of thunder, all of the armed men looking up to the sky to see the goddess that brought their demise. In an instant, tyrannical winds start to sweep through their ranks.

“Almost out!” Jean announces in your ear.

“Dozer, give them a clear path!” Scott orders you, jumping out from behind your barrier to help Storm thin the herd of armed men that waited.

You call to the dirt beneath your feet, pulling up several jagged walls of rock to protect the entrance and path to the Blackbird. They’re sloppy and uneven, but they’ll do for cover. You catch just a glimpse of the team through the cracks in the rock. Somehow, Logan’s eyes find yours in the fraction of a second you have.

“Spare anyone you can. Let’s clear the last of these scumbags out before we evacuate.” Scott orders through the comm set. You want to argue back and groan in protest. The mission was complete. The prisoners were out and heading for safety, but you knew he was right— Time to cripple MRD once and for all.

With any final strength you can muster, you send a shockwave through the battlefield, several agents falling in its wake. You quickly enclose whatever parts of their bodies in rock that you can. You just have to immobilize them and there are only a handful left. It’s almost over.

“Remind me never to piss you off, sweetheart.” a familiar gruff voice cheekily says behind you. In a flash, he’s at your side— Logan. If the situation were different, you’d have kissed him. Too bad there’s a task at hand.

“Oh, you should know never to piss me off by now.” you chuckled back, doing your best to multitask in the chaos of it all.

Logan jumps in front of you defensively. He was against you being the outside offense since the beginning, likely just because he couldn’t be there if you needed him. In the handful of months since you’d been together, he’d proven to be a rather protective partner. The more you learned about him, the more you understood why. He’d only had a small handful of things happen to him that were actually good. You did your best to be one of them.

“Two dozen left at most,” Scott shouts in the dwindling chaos.

Looking out at the jagged battlefield, Scott’s estimate seemed to be correct. This could be over in a matter of seconds, and your job would finally be done. You could take the last of them out with the same move you’d just done… that is if you had one more in you still.

You reach your weary hands out and call to the earth one final time. Cripple them. Immobilize them. The ground starts to rumble under your command.

You're so focused on your finishing move that you don’t hear it. Storm warning you all reinforcements are coming up from the south, directly behind you.

“DOZE!” It’s Logan’s voice that pulls you out of your concentration.

You only have a split second to turn your head to see him jumping for you. He pushes you to the ground, your body skidding a few feet away. There’s a deafening ring of new gunfire before it’s immediately silenced by a new jagged wall of rock you rip out of the ground. With a crack of lightning, Storm rushes over to Scott’s side, quickly followed by Rouge and Kurt. You scramble to your feet, ready to join them, but Logan doesn’t move. He just stands there, back to you, completely stone still.

“L-Logan?” You dare to take a small step toward him, afraid of what you’ll see.

He starts to turn around, his movements jerky and stiff. It hurts him to move.

You attempt to hide the horrified gasp that escapes your lips, covering your mouth with your hands at the sight of him. Your eyes immediately meet his and you can almost feel it through his gaze— the excruciating pain.

You weren’t fast enough to stop them.

Bullet holes peppered his entire body. God, even his face— the bullets still sat embedded in his metal skull. The blood pouring out of each new hole in his body was starting to stain his suit— painting over his skin with red. He choked out a pained sound that almost sounded like your name before collapsing to his knees and falling face-first at your feet.

“Logan!” You immediately drop down and pull him into your arms, the battle around you now completely forgotten. You erect three more small walls on your remaining sides. The team could handle the rest. They’d be fine. Logan would be fine. He just needed time to heal, and you’ll give it to him.

You cradle his head in your arms. All hope disappears when you look into his eyes.

There was… nothing.

Those warm, hazel eyes that were always so inviting are now cold and blank. Lifeless. Streams of blood marked his rugged face you adored so much, a bullet in his forehead and two through his left cheek. You’d seen death a handful of times in this rotten job. You’d just never seen it in someone you loved.

You can’t help the wail that escapes when you pull him in. You clutch his lifeless body, burying your face in the crook of his neck.

Yes, Logan healed, he barely aged, but could he cure death? He’d never mentioned it. How could a mutation still possibly work after you died? It couldn’t. Logan was dead. He’s dead because of you. Because you weren’t fast enough to stop this.

You only faintly register the battle falling silent around you. The commanding voices of your friends at least tell you that you’ve won. There was no joy in this small victory for you. Not while you clung to the body of your now dead lover.

You jump at the sound of several metallic pings within your space. Has someone breached your quickly constructed walls? You pull back and gasp at an entirely new sight.

Logan was healing, newly formed tissue and bone pushing the bullets out of his body one by one. The final ones to leave are three that marked his face. As soon as they’re gone, there’s light in his eyes again.

His whole body arches in your arms as he heaves in his first gasping breath. His hands grasp onto you, finding anything to ground him. You can’t bring yourself to say anything comforting, shock grabbing hold of your vocal cords.

He’d come back to life in your arms in a matter of seconds.

He takes a few steadying breaths before his eyes finally find yours.

“Are you okay?” His voice is shaken, almost ragged.

You still can’t force yourself to speak. You only look at him, only able to see the blood that streaked across his face in every direction. His blood. He was still covered in his own blood. The hole in his forehead is still mending itself back together and he’s asking if you're okay?

He sits up from your lap, his hands gently resting on your arms.

“Hey,” he tilts your chin up to look him in the eye. Warm and inviting again. Full of life, “Talk to me.”

You’re not sure how long it is before you can force words out of your throat, but eventually, you do.

“You died.”

The silence that follows is haunting. Suddenly, it feels like there’s an ocean between the two of you. You should be the one comforting him through this, yet here he is, cradling your face in his hands, suddenly unable to make eye contact. He’d saved you, he was alive, you were alive, yet you feel like something in you changed. A small piece of you died with him just then. Unequivocally fear that you could never forget. He died. You just watched him die.

“But you didn’t.” He says it with no regret in his voice. No pain.

He knew his actions would likely be fatal. He sacrificed himself to save you. But was it worth it? Was it worth it to watch him die in front of you?

And knowing Logan… he’d do it again without hesitation.

“Hey, guys!” It’s Kurt's voice that pulls you out of your little world, calling for you just beyond the walls. You quickly lower them to see the rest of your fellow X-Men standing in wait. How long have you both been sitting here?

“Jesus, what happened?” Rouge exclaims, clearly referring to Logan still caked in blood. His blood.

He was still fucking covered in his own blood.

You quickly get up, not sparing Logan a single glance, and brush past your teammates as fast as you can. You board the Blackbird alone, hugging yourself in the corner. None of them come after you, and truthfully, you don’t want them to.

Your face collapses into your hands, sobs racking your whole body.

______

The flight home was dead quiet. Even the rescued prisoners said almost nothing except a quick thank you once you dropped them off at a secure mutant-run location just past the border. Logan was smart enough not to sit directly next to you. You’re not sure if you're relieved or mortified by that fact. No, no, you needed space and he was giving it to you.

You still felt his eyes on you the whole time.

He may not have sat right at your hip, but he was in eyeshot of you at all times. Logan’s emotions were always so palpable to you. You can always just feel him. He was worried.

Ororo was the first to approach you with a quiet hello and a gentle hand on your knee.

“What happened out there?” she asked somewhat hesitantly.

You took your sweet time answering, shock still grabbing some part of your mind and urging you to just keep staring at your feet like you had been the entire time.

“I saw him die, ‘Ro.” you eventually answered.

You swear you felt her touch tense a little.

“But Logan can’t die.” Maybe she was holding back a laugh, you thought briefly. You’d been with this man for months, and you had no idea his healing factor was so advanced. You were a child pouting in the corner over seemingly nothing— but it was everything.

“But I didn’t know that, ‘Ro,” you spat back at her. “I didn’t know that.”

And, of course, she pulls you into a hug with a comforting warmth only Ororo Munroe seemed to have. It was stupid of you to think she’d mock you for something like this.

You’re in your bedroom now, sitting on the bed with your knees curled into your chest, stripped out of your suit and freshly showered. Logan was in the bathroom just a few feet away, brushing his teeth. Just fucking brushing his teeth like nothing happened. Like his soul hadn’t left his body and you had to fucking watch.

It wasn’t just that, though. It wasn’t the fact that he was brushing off the fact that he’d died and come back to life.

You loved him.

It’d been a good handful of months, and neither of you had said the big one yet. People always said you and Logan were the same kind of stubborn, probably what drew you to each other in the first place. Both skittish and afraid to ruin something by going too far. But it’s gone past that point for both of you now, hasn’t it? What risks are there left to take? It took seeing the light draining from his eyes to realize you loved this man. God, why can’t anything in your life be easy?

You feel the mattress sink behind you, but still don’t turn to look at him. His body shifts with a heavy sigh.

“I can’t…we can’t go to bed like this.” There’s that gentle pleading in his voice you’d only heard a handful of times. When he woke up from nightmares, mostly.

A heavy hand comes to rest over yours and to your surprise, you don’t pull away. You finally turn to face him… and there he is. As rugged and beautiful as he always is. Not a speck of blood left. No holes in his body. The familiar hair of his bare chest already grown back in the same familiar patterns. The man you loved, as good as new.

With a deep breath, you ask your first question.

“Have you died before?”

He’s taken aback at first but eventually answers.

“Yes.”

“How many times?”

“I’ve lost count.”

“Logan—” you bury your face in your hands, not sure if you are willing away tears or an irritated groan.

He reaches out for you, ready to pull you into him before he decides against it.

“I’m sorry,” he simply says.

“Logan, it’s not—”

“I thought you knew,” He quickly cuts you off. “You knew how old I was… what I’d been through. I figured you knew.”

In retrospect, it seems obvious. He’d fought in wars, been ripped apart and put back together, he’s hundreds of years old, for God's sake. But what normal person would ever correlate that to complete and total resurrection? You knew Logan had suffered… but this…

“You’re okay and I’m okay. That’s all that matters.” He reaches out to you again. You stand up from the bed and start to pace before he can touch you.

“It’s not about that! It’s not about being okay now— it’s that I had to watch you. I saw you die. I saw you suffer because of me and I—” You cut yourself off before admitting to your newest and most terrifying secret. “You can’t do that again. I can’t watch you go through that again.”

He just sits there, looking up at you like a scolded puppy.

“I can’t promise that.” He says without an ounce of regret in his voice.

“Then you’re going to have to try.”

You see a flame flicker in his eyes then before he looks away. He sits there, hands squeezing into white knuckled fists on his lap before he releases them with a deep breath.

“You can’t just ask me not to protect you.”

“I don’t need you to protect me.”

“You did tonight.”

You turn away again, trying to keep yourself from screaming. He doesn’t get it. He doesn’t fucking get it.

You pause, facing the wall adjacent to the bed, and take a few deep breaths before daring to continue.

“I don’t want you to just be a human shield for me.”

“I’m not…I will do anything as long as it means you stay alive.” He’d finally raised his voice, the tendons in his neck tensing from what little restraint he had. “You have no idea… No idea what I’d do.”

And finally, his nonchalant attitude toward this monumental thing started to make sense. What he’d done, sacrificing himself for you— it meant nothing to him. A blip in his long existence. What’s a little more pain to it all? Logan never gave a shit about himself, you already knew that— but the people he cared about…he’d move mountains for them.

“I’d raise hell. I’d tear down whatever took you away… but you’re still here. If the price of that is death, then I’ll pay it every goddamn time.” he lets the words linger. It almost stings when they start to sink in.

Did he really think this was all he had to offer? Only his invulnerability, his strength? Of course it was. It’s all anyone ever told him he was worth. All anyone ever wanted from him. He did exactly what thought he should. What he was made for. Logan always thought he was anything except a man. An animal. Another expendable tool.

You have to show him he’s more than that. More than some blunt object. More than a weapon. He’s a man… the man you love.

You pull at his wrist, urging him to lean into you. He does, his arms circling around your shoulders and yours sneaking up around his back.

“Logan… you still don’t get it…but I guess I’m not getting it right either,” you start gently, running your hands soothingly up his back. “I’m not saying I’m not happy to be alive. That we’re both alive…but…I can’t be entirely grateful because…because I watched the man I love die tonight.”

You feel him tense around you.

“Just for a moment, I thought I lost you. I lost you and it was my fault. You’re not just something that’s expendable. You’re a man. A man that I— And I’d never get to tell you…” You trail off, the thought of it is too unbearable.

He doesn’t let you bury your face in his chest like you wanted, hiding yourself from his searing gaze. Instead, his hands come up to cradle your face, gently craning your neck back to look at him. You were right to want to hide away from him, his eyes are more desperately burning than you’d ever seen.

He holds you there, unmoving, unspeaking. Just boring into your soul with a million words that his mouth could never say. You don’t need him to speak. Those deep pools of hazel and topaz say it all.

In a way, Logan took the first step. He took a few dozen bullets for you, endured unspeakable pain and the first thing he did when he could breathe again was ask if you were okay— what is that if not love?

You don’t recall the last time a kiss felt more natural. Kissing Logan always felt right, but this was different. Whatever words he couldn’t say, he was pouring into this kiss. An all-consuming embrace. A silent promise. His own way of saying he loved you back.

Logan was always a man of action rather than words.

He pulls you into him, holding you flush against his body with a desperate moan and a need to have you impossibly closer. He cradles you like a treasure, tongue coming out to explore your own.

He pulls you down to the bed, hands starting to desperately paw at your whole body. You straddle his lap, cupping his jaw so tightly you fear hurting him. As if you ever could. Your shirt’s discarded in some blinding flurry of motion, his lips immediately trailing all over your chest as soon as you're exposed to him.

Logan was always a lustful and sometimes feral lover. It was always something that was intoxicating about him. This was more than that, though. There was a sense of desperation in his touch— a need. A need to have you closer. To touch you. To taste you. To have you just feel how much he needed you.

How much he loved you back.

He brings you down to the bed, pulling off your sleep shorts before you can even get a breath in. You rise to meet him once he’s discarded his own pants and straddle his lap again. He pulls you back into him as you sink down over him, your cunt stretching to his familiar girth.

“Don’t leave me again,” you plead as your hands reach up to cradle his face, tears pricking at your eyes. “Don’t ever, ever do that again.”

“Okay,” He says passively, dropping his mouth down to nip at your neck. “F-for you I’ll… Okay…Okay…”

It’s not a promise, not really. But it’s a start.

You both find a rhythm here, pushing and pulling into each other in ways that were already familiar and somehow completely new at the same time. It’ll never be the same after tonight. Whatever you and Logan are, it’s something entirely new. Equal parts thrilling and terrifying.

Love always is.

It’s hours, it’s days, it’s… You don’t really fucking care. An eternity with Logan inside you would still not be enough, but eventually, you both find solace in your pillows, your bodies and hearts weary from… everything.

You both lay there, finally still and the initial emotions quelled. There was still so much more to talk about, so much more to say… but not tonight. Not right now.

“Do you ever remember anything… when it happens?” you find yourself asking, your fingers lazily brushing through his facial hair.

He says nothing at first, hand reaching up to yours and bringing it down for a kiss.

“No. Never. But… waking up to you wasn’t half bad.”

You flinch again at the memory of those empty eyes.

“I don’t want to see that happen to you again.”

“I can’t promise that, darlin’.” He reiterates from earlier.

“I’m not asking for a promise… I’m just asking you to try.”

He pulls you into him, resting his chin on top of your head and his hand gently stroking up and down your arm. It’ll take time, but you’ll show him. You’ll show Logan his life is worth something.

“Yeah, sweetheart,” he says, placing a kiss on your head, “l’ll try. For you, I’ll try.”

#logan howlett fanfiction #logan howlett x reader #logan howlett x fem!reader #logan smut #Wolverine #logan howlett fic #wolverine x f!reader #wolverine fanfiction

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wilwheaton · 9 months ago

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Yesterday’s apparent move to lay the groundwork to pull out of the September 10th debate for the second time was a case in point. It was a classic Donald Trump social media outburst. A wave of vague and nonsensical complaints about bias against him, all leading up to a strong suggestion that he’s pulling out of the ABC debate, rounded out with a “stay tuned.” It’s the old razzmatazz, throwing out a bombshell, putting everyone else back on their heels and then intuiting in the resulting chaos the best way to shuffle the deck for Donald Trump. But in this case, nobody cares. Many factors figured into the burst of momentum Harris got right out of the gate on July 21st. But I don’t think most people have grasped the importance of Trump’s immediate decision to drop out of the already scheduled debate. It showed from him directly that he was unprepared for her elevation and at a minimum worried about facing her in a debate. He basically told on himself. It was a message to her potential supporters, from — paradoxically — the most credible of sources, that she was for real. It was a big deal. Now he’s doing the same thing again. But nobody’s back on their heels. This makes him look weak, like most things have over the last month. Harris isn’t going to beg him to debate. Her campaign is probably as happy with a renewed spectacle of his fear of facing her as it would be with the debate happening itself. He already made a big show of this and caved. Everyone knows he’s got a losing hand in any fight over debates. The “stay tuned” tells the story: the old Trump mode, wait anxiously for my next move. But no one’s waiting. No one’s anxious. Really, he has no next move on the debate front.

Donald’s Fallen Down. So Why Can’t He Get Up?

All of this is true. It feels great to know that he is struggling and sputtering and in a complete panic, on his way to a total narcissistic collapse.

AND YET we can’t take this election for granted. Every single vote will count. Check your registration, especially if you live in a swing state, and make a plan to vote with two friends.

Do something! Let’s win this! We are not going back!

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artbyblastweave · 4 months ago

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So, both Marvel and DC periodically do "fascist takeover of America" crossover events. The one I read the most of was the 2006-2010 mega-arc spanning Avengers Disassembled and Siege, where the high-profile superheroic fuckups of Avengers Disassembled, Secret War and House of M create the political climate necessary for Civil War, and the subsequent government consolidation of power over superheroes, the regulatory infrastructure created downstream of that, is then directly implicated in Norman Osborn's eventual soft takeover of the American Security State- at least until he overplays his hand and gets curbstomped in the usual status-quo reset manner. On balance I genuinely really liked this arc, which is at least partially down to nostalgia- but part of it is that I very broadly find the whole thing plausible, essentially a four-color and comparatively toothless implementation of the ideas Bendis and Millar were playing with in the Ultimate Marvel sandbox. It raises questions about Superheroic accountability that the really aggressive shooters for that idea can't really weasel out of- accountability to who? You think the fucking Bush Administration should get to sign off on what superheroes can and can't do? The freaks who got millions of people killed in the middle east with a fake-nuke fig-leaf over their hardon for the gun salesmen?

(I call this a toothless implementation because Ultimate Marvel had Bush personally, directly deploy Captain America and company in Iraq. Mainline Marvel gestured at this but, due to the number of authors involved, ended up being a lot more thematically confused in regards to whether they liked the government or not. I like Ultimate Marvel.)

Anyway. The thing about the "fascist takeover of America" plot is that even though it's typically gesturing at plausible real-life concerns- The Military Industrial complex run amok, the NSA with superpowered attack dogs, and so on- it always ends up doing so from within the superheroic idiom in a way that robs the real-life referents of their power. A slick demagogue takes over the government, but that demagogues a conventional supervillain and once you unmask him and punch him out everything is back to normal. The CIA has unleashed an army of killbots but once you destroy the secret killbot factory and arrest five or six people all is normal again in heaven and earth. There's always some inner circle, always some prime mover you can beat to a pulp about it. It's never painted as just the inevitable consequence of a significant chunk of the American populace being subsapient authoritarians who elect a bunch of criminal maniacs to enact an unmanaged suicide of the modern administrative state.

There's an extent to which doing something like this is always going to fall outside of the big-two mandate because going all in on what I'm about to talk about would put so much of a lie to the basic aspirational premise of the thing so as to make it unrecoverable. But a story I'd really like to see is a registration act situation where the superheroes are integrated under government power, it's cool, it's cool, and then over the course of a couple administrations, a couple economic downturns and maybe an adventurist overseas war it very pointedly becomes uncool. Some cornfed fascist slides into the oval office, and there is no genre-specific mitigating element. It's not because of his mind-control powers, it's not because he's a catspaw for a supervillain or an ancient conspiracy. It's just the the proven American propensity for electing evil morons- or possibly the proven American propensity for electing evil genteel politicians, norms-and-civility ghouls who drone strike exactly as many weddings as the evil morons, if not more. And now the political moment has beaten down the gates to the walled fairyland garden of the superheroic cops-and-robbers runaround, and superheroes find themselves being sicced on campus protests and whistleblowers and overseas targets, every other evil exercise of power associated with the cops and the military and the national guard, and there's no smoky backroom you can beat up to ensure a return to normalcy, because this is normal. This isn't what they signed up for. This is exactly what they signed up for.

#thoughts #meta #marvel #marvel comics #civil war #analysis

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maxinehufflepuffprincess · 4 days ago

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King of Clubs

Chishiya Shuntaro x Reader x Niragi Suguru

(So this has been a long time coming, but here it is. I hope it lives up to expectations. It's like four in the morning for me, so if there are typos or spelling mistakes, Imma blame it on the tiredness.)

Taglist. Masterlist. Progress Update. Love Line Collection.

Warnings: Death, blood, swearing.

Summary: You, your boyfriends and your friends play against the King of Clubs and his team.

You let out a small sigh as you and your boyfriends waited for more people to show up for the next game. It was the King of Clubs, and the game required seven players.

The sound of a car brought your attention away from your boys. The three of you made your way to where the sound came from. Only to find Kuina, Arisu, Usagi and Tatta in front of the table with the bracelets.

“It says we need seven players.” Usgai stated as she looked at the three.

“But we’re only four.” Kuina replied with a small huff.

“Seven, actually.” Niragi spoke up. The group turned to see the three of you standing in front of the car.

“Niragi? Chishiya?” Arisu asked, not expecting to see the three of you there. Especially not Niragi.

“It’s been a while.” Niragi smirked. He knew that Arisu and Usgai didn’t trust him after he beat Arisu up. He knew they were still slowly trying to figure out where they stood with Chishiya after he had tricked them.

“Kuina!” You called out, running over to your best friend. Kuina met you in the middle, and the two of you shared a tight hug. You pulled away after a moment, and the two of you looked each other over. “I missed you. You’re not hurt, are you?” You asked her.

Kuina shook her head. “I’m fine. Are you three okay?” She asked as you walked with her over to your boys. The two each shared a hug with her. “We’re good. We’ve been looking for you all everywhere since we got separated. Thank goodness we trusted Niragi when he said he wanted to do this game.”

“I don’t think we should team up with them. Niragi will sabotage us for sure.” Tatta spoke, his voice full of distrust. “I bet he’s got a plan to screw us over already.”

Chishiya shook his head at that as Niragi stepped forward and raised his arm. “The bracelet isn't coming off now. All I wanna do is enjoy the game and make sure these two– and now Kuina are safe. If you’re not interested in playing, then you’d better get outta here, huh?”

Usagi let out a breath before turning and walking over to the table. She picked up a bracelet. “I don’t care what he wants.” She put the bracelet on. “If we don’t join the game, we’ll be gunned down. And that’s it.” She said, turning to face everyone. “I’d rather fight here than die like an animal.” God, she was awesome.

“Me too.” Arisu agreed. “I wanna know why.” He stepped forward and put on a bracelet. Kuina followed after Arisu and put on a bracelet as well. Tatta let out a sigh before turning to Niragi. “Don’t slow us down. This game is about working together.”

Niragi scoffed. “I’m pretty sure you’re the slow one.” He shot back. Causing Chishiya to snort from his left. Chishiya stepped forward. His hands were in his jacket pockets. The seven of you turned to look at the gate as it opened.

“Registration is now closed.”

“The game will now commence.”

The seven of you stood there for a moment before Arisu led everyone inside. The gate closed behind you all as you continued to walk. You came to a big open space that had a pole thing in the centre. There was also a screen that you could see. There were shipping containers everywhere.

“What is this place?” Tatta asked.

The screen turned on.

“The King of Clubs’ team is now entering the field.”

Rock music suddenly played, and the members of the King’s team walked out from different spots of the arena. Then from the centre came a man.

“Welcome to our game field.” He said as he walked closer to you all. “I am the King of Clubs, Kyuma.” He was butt naked. Like full on nothing. Your eyes went wide. Niragi smiled to himself before looking at you and Chishiya, who had an eyebrow raised. Niragi quickly slapped a hand over your eyes.

The King began to introduce his team (Shitara, Uta, Goken, Maki, Kaito and Emi) as Chishiya pushed Niragi’s hand off your eyes. He gave him a look which caused Niragi to scoff.

“Pleasure.” Kyuma said after introducing his team.

“Pleasures all mine.” You couldn’t help but say. You didn’t mean to say it. You definitely didn’t mean for it to come out so…thirsty. You blushed seeing Kyuma smirk. You heard Kuina snort at your words. A sudden gasp left your lips as Chishiya pinched your arm.

“What the fuck, babe?” You asked him as you rubbed your arm.

“You know what you did.” He replied, crossing his arms over his chest.

You let out a scoff. “Oh, please, like you two weren’t just ogling him. Man looks like he was sculpted by the gods themselves. Tell me you disagree.” You challenged as you looked between your boyfriends.

But neither could disagree because you were right. They had both checked the King of Clubs out.

“Well, thank you, at least one of you likes me.”

“I think you’re weirding them out.” Uta told him with a small shrug, her hands shoved in her pants pockets.

“Put some pants on.” Shitara commented, hands on his hips.

“What? Not a chance! Nudism is an upstanding practice. A social movement with hundreds of years of history! Clothing is a social construct. No biological necessity. Humans should be bare and raw. After all, it’s only natural.”

“What’s the deal with this guy?” Tatta asked.

Kuina spoke up. “So this is the King of Clubs?”

“Out of his damn mind.” Niragi added.

“Listen, we don’t care about that. Just tell us who you are.” Arisu spoke, causing Kyuma to turn back to face you all.

“Who are we? We are the citizens of this country.”

“Citizens?” Arisu asked in confusion.

“Sure. citizens.”

“What do you mean?” Kuina asked in confusion. “We’re all living here, right?”

“Who can say?” Kyuma asked her as he raised an eyebrow. Kyuma then began to walk in front of you all, pacing as he spoke. “I’m the leader in this place. We created this game. That man, Shitata? All his idea.” He gestured to his friend as he turned to face Shitata.

Shitata raised a hand. “Well, to be fair, this is a brand-new experience for us. We haven’t played a game of it yet as a team.” He explained.

“What does that mean? We’re competing against citizens now? Us against the seven of you.” Usagi asked.

“Yeah. When you play a face card game, you’re competing against citizens fighting for their lives. Anyone who loses is killed. So… these are games of life or death for us citizens as well. It’s time to begin. The game we’ll be playing is…”Kyuma gestured towards the big screen.

‘Difficulty, King of Clubs.’

‘Game: Osmosis.’

“Osmosis…’ Arisu repeated.

“Now, the rules are simple. The game lasts two hours. Both teams try to collect points. The team with the highest total at the end of the game wins. Each team begins with 14,000 points. Players divide these points amongst themselves before the game begins. The minimum amount is 100 points. You’re free to divide them up anyway you want. Talk it over as a team and decide. Point distribution is a key element of strategy in this game.” Kyuma turned back to face you all.

“How does one earn points? There are three ways you can do so in this game. Battle, items and base.” He counted them off on his fingers.”

Kuina raised her hand and sighed. “Hold on!”

“Yeah, you got a question?” Kyuma asked as he gestured at Kuina, a small smile on his face.

“How do we remember all this?” She asked.

Shitata laughed, but Kyuma took her question seriously. “Okay. I guess it’s easier once you do it, huh? A demonstration. You’ve got random points for now. Your bracelet shows your individual point. Let’s try to battle.”

You looked down at your bracelet to see 2000 points. “A battle’s outcome depends entirely on your current points. To initiate one, all you need to do is touch your opponent.” Kyuma walked over to you and your boyfriends. He reached out and grabbed Niragi’s shoulder.

“Hey!” Niragi shrugged his hand off. His bracelet chimed, causing you and Chishiya to gather on either side of him to see his bracelet.

‘Niragi 2,000. Lose.’

‘Kyuma 3,500. Win.’

“Whoever has more points wins. The winner steals 500 points from the loser.”

You let out a gasp, seeing the points changing on Niragi’s bracelet.

‘The scores have been updated. The King of Clubs team is now leading by 1,000 points.’

Arisu walked over to the three of you. He stood beside you to look at Niragi’s bracelet.

‘‘Niragi 1,500.’

‘Kyuma 4,000.’

Then Kyuma’s name and points vanished. Niragi put his arm down. Arisu looked down at his own bracelet to see his own points. “So you don’t know your opponent’s score until you battle.”

“No. You know what that means, right? It means these battles are a huge gamble, where you’re unable to see your opponent’s strength. Something else you can try is to pair up with a teammate. For example..” He looked at Usagi and Arisu. “You two, try holding hands.” He said, pointing between the two.

Both were silent. Both stayed still and hesitated.”Oh wow, what’s this?” Kyuma chuckled. “A bit nervous, are ya?”

You looked between the two of you. “If you don’t hold his hand, Niragi will.” You told the two. You grinned, hearing Niragi scoff next to you. Chishiya let out a chuckle.

“I’d never hold his hand.” Your taller boyfriend grunted out.

Chishiya shrugged. “I think you’ve been dying to hold his hand since he came to the beach.” You laughed at Chishiya’s words. The two of you looked at each other.

“I was just thinking the same thing.” You told the blonde. The two of you smiled at each other before letting out a laugh.

You let out a sudden yelp as you were both smacked on the back of the head. “Ow.” You rubbed the back of your head and turned to see Chishiya glaring at Niragi.

“You two are begging for a spanking.” You let out a gasp at his words, but before you could say anything, Chishiya spoke up. “You can’t keep saying stuff like that in front of people.”

Niragi scoffed. “I can say whatever I want when my girlfriend and my boyfriend are being brats.” He said, crossing his arms over his chest. “Aguni literally caught on last time.” You told Niragi, sass filled your voice. Chishiya nodded in agreement. “Oh please, Aguni knew something was going on long before that fucking meeting.” Niragi told the two of you.

“He did?” You asked in confusion as you looked between the two.

Chishiya sighed and licked his bottom lip. “The point is, you can't keep just blurting shit like that out in public.”

This made Niragi smirk. “Public humiliation looks good on you, Kitten.”

Chishiya practically turned red as he turned to Niragi. “I will light you on fire.”

“Not if I drown you first.” Niragi fired back, the flirtation clear in his voice.

“Honestly, you two. Stop flirting whilst we're in the middle of a death game. Do you have no shame? So unprofessional.” You spoke with a mocking tone of embarrassment and disappointment. As if you weren't the one to kick the whole conversation off. The two turned to look at you.

Before the three of you could continue, a laugh brought your attention to Kyuma. He looked very amused. “You three are adorable together. Very entertaining.” This made your cheeks turn red as you beamed with pride. “Thank you.” You said with a sweet voice.

Kyuma chuckled and shook his head. “Back to the game.” Usagi walked over and grabbed Arisu’s hand. “Would you look at that? Cute couple.” He sighed. “All right. If teammates hold hands like this, they’re able to battle using their combined points, allowing them to beat an opponent they couldn’t defeat on their own.” Kyuma stepped forward and grabbed Arisu’s shoulder. “The winners get the 500 divided between them.” Kyuma watched Arisu and Usagi check their bracelet. “Cuties.” He walked away.

“On to the items. There are items for you to find, six of them, hidden among the containers.”

Kuina scoffed. “This place is huge. There are only six items in all these shipping containers?”

Chishiya nodded his head. “Interesting.” He was already thinking.

“Touching an item will earn your team some points.” He walked over to the pole. “And finally, we come to these poles. Bases are a big part of the game.” He placed a hand on it. “They can turn the tide. This pole is your base. Ours is on the other side. If you manage to touch your opponent's base, 10,000 points are yours.”

“10,000 points? Don’t both teams start with that?” Kuina asked.

“Exactly why you need to keep someone back to protect your base. But while a player is touching their own base, they have infinite points.”

“Infinite?” Usagi asked.

Arisu walked forward, stepping closer to Kyuma. “How do you battle someone with infinite points?”

Kyuma gestured him over. “Come here.” So Arisu did. He walked over to Kyuma. Once he was close enough, Kyuma placed a hand on Arisu’s shoulder. “I was touching my base, so you lose 10,000 points. And I gain 10,000 points.”

“Hand on.” Usgasi walked over to Arisu’s side. “So what would happen to him? His score would have dropped below zero.”

Kyuma placed two fingers under his chin and tilted his head back a little. “Pyeeow. Shot down.”

Usagi frowned. “If you try to touch the other team’s base and their goalie manages to touch you, you lose 10,000 points. You die, and the opposing team gains 10,000 points?”

Tatta stepped forward. “That’s way too risky.”

Niragi chuckled and licked his bottom lip. “If you pull it off, you can change everything.”

“Something else. After completing a battle or touching the other team’s base, players are temporarily out of commission. Inactive. During this time, their points are frozen. They’re immune. If you touch an opponent while they’re out of commission, your wristband will give you an electric shock. Enough to knock you out, so be careful. Once you touch your own base, your status is reset, and you can resume play. So, you know the rules. Split up your points now, then the game begins.” And with that, the King and his team walked away.

“Hold on.” Arisu called out, walking forward. “I’m Arisu. Kyuma… tell me something, before we fight. If we beat all the games here, will we go back to our world?”

“Your world?” Kyuma asked. “What is your world? The way that you’re speaking about it, you’re making it sound like your world must be the real one.”

“Isn’t it?”

“What are you talking about?” You and Arisu asked at the same time.

“Tell me something. How many real conversations did you have? How many heart-to-hearts did you have? Our flaws, our pride. Those are exposed here, in this world. When we look death in the eyes, we face true human nature and reality.” Kyuma turned to face you all. “This world is more real than any you left behind. These games are conversations. Let’s really talk, you and I. Let us expose our true hearts. Arisu. You want the truth, yeah? Face me with everything you have.” Kyuma and his friends walked away, leaving the seven of you behind.

—-----

“Is it just me, or was that Kyuma guy being nice to us? Like a normal guy?” Tatta asked the group.

“Buck naked and crazy. Yeah, real normal.” Niragi said from his spot, leaning against the pole. “This game’ll be a bloodbath, just like all the others.”

“I think he just really liked Arisu.” You said with a cheeky smile on your face, causing Arisu to groan.

Kuina stepped forward. “Okay. Let’s distribute the points. How many do we each get? Got any ideas?” She asked, looking at Arisu and then everyone else.

“What if we split them seven ways?” Tatta asked curiously.

“We’re not going to win splitting them evenly between us.” Usagi replied.

Arisu nodded in agreement. “It’s like Kyuma said. It’s an important decision for the game. The initial point split is crucial.” He said as he looked at everyone.

Niragi sighed and pushed off the pole. “I might have an idea.” He said with a shrug. This made you smile.

Arisu, Usagi and Tatta frowned at Niragi. “Why would we trust anything to have to say?” Arisu asked him.

Chishiya scoffed. “Just hear him out. No one else has a plan.” He was defensive. He understood why the three didn’t like Niragi, but now was not time for that bullshit.

You nodded in agreement. “We get you three, don’t trust him. But Chishiya, Kuina and I do. We’ve actually played games with Niragi before. He’s more than just a gun, you know.”

The three looked at each other and then at Kuina. Arisu sighed but nodded. “Alright, Niragi. Tell us your plan.”

“Here’s the plan. The faster runners will get fewer points. That’s Kuina and Usagi. So 300 points each. Slower runners get more. Arisu will get 4600, I’ll get 4700 since I’m the slowest out of the two of us. Baby, you’ll get 3,900 points. Not fast but not slow. The guard at the base gets the least number of points possible. 100. We got in one pair and one trio. One fast runner with one slow runner. Baby, you can bounce between the two groups as you see fit. We’ll keep Tatta and Chishiya at base to protect it. That way, if whilst we’re gone, the King’s team decide to attack the base, we’ll have two chances to stop them. Pairing up for battles has many advantages, but one of the biggest is that they can only see your combined points. They won’t know how many points you each have.”

Everyone was quiet. Because what the actual fuck? That actually kind of sounded smart and good. Chishiya nodded at Niragi. He was proud of him, and that was clear by the small smile on his lips and the twinkle in his eyes.

“So, how are we doing the teams then?” You asked curiously.

—-----

‘Game Start.’

You found yourself running alongside Niragi and Usagi. You had originally expected to be paired with Niragi and Kuina. But Usagi and Arisu seemed determined not to be paired together.

“Why'd you pair with us, anyway?” Niragi asked as he ran.

“Because I won't care if you die in front of me.” Usagi replied as she focused on the goal of looking for items. This made Niragi laugh.

You scoffed. “Geez, no need to be so rude.”

The three of you continued to run until you came across one of the King's players. The three of you stopped in place, trying to figure out what to do.

“How do you want to do this? Between you two, you have just over 4,000 points. Between us, we have 5,000, and between my girl and me, we have over 7,000.” Niragi spoke as he looked between the two of you.

“He can't have more than that. They'd be crazy to give one person half their points. Let's get him.” Usagi replied as she turned to look at you. She grabbed your hand in yours. The two of you began to run at the man.

“Oh no.” The two of you slowed to a stop as you watched him run away. Niragi came up behind you both.

“Guess he didn't have that many after all.” He chuckled as he separated your hand from Usagi's.

The three of you got back to searching for items, though you didn't find any. Your team's points went up by 2,000 and then by 500. So you guessed that Kuina and Arisu must've found an item and won a battle. You just hoped that Kuina got 2,000 points since she only had 300 at the moment.

Usagi and Niragi waited around a corner as you opened up some of the containers to look for any items. You turned to see Usagi luring one of the King's teammates into a little trap. You watched as the two cornered him, and the male tried to run off, but Usagi grabbed his ankle. Causing 500 more points to be added to the team, though the points were evenly split between Niragi and Usagi.

‘The player team is now leading by 4,000 points.’

And suddenly another 500 were added.

“I think it's time to regroup.”

—-----

The five runners all met back up and walked back to the pole.

“All right, you guys!” Tatta called out with a grin as you all came into view.

“This is a King game? Don't make me laugh.” Niragi high-fived Kuina as he spoke. He then took your hand and led you over to Chishiya, who was playing with the cards he had collected. However, before the two of you could get far, Arisu stopped you both.

“You did well. I actually forgot that you were a bad guy, Niragi.” He raised a hand, and the two high-fived. Arisu turned to you, and you both high-fived as well.

You turned to Niragi, seeing a small smile on his lips. He felt…accepted. You gently pulled him to the pole where you both recharged before sitting down next to Chishiya. The blonde looked between the two of you.

You grabbed one of his hands. “I'm surprised you still have those.”

Chishiya looked and shrugged. “We went through a lot to get these. I'm not about to just lose them all of a sudden.” He told you with a small nod. He then turned to you both with a smirk. “Did you enjoy running?”

You let out a huff. “I hate running. It's ridiculous. Why can't any of these games involve walking or sitting down…or sleeping? I'd win in a sleeping game.” You spoke proudly.

Niragi let out a laugh. He shook his head as he took the moment to watch you both. He was happy that the plan he had made was working. He'd have you by his side, safe. Whilst Chishiya was at base, safe, where he could end up with infinite points if needed. His main priority was keeping you two alive. His second priority was keeping Kuina alive. He hated to admit it, but Kuina had become an important person in his life.

Kuina walked over and sat with the three of you, making a little circle. With you and Niragi on either side of Chishiya and Kuina, between the two of you. The four of you were silent for a moment.

“I’ve missed this.” You spoke softly. “The four of us.” You all cared deeply for each other. Kuia was like a sister to you.

“Me too. I was worried about you three when we got separated. I knew you’d be okay, though. Now I’m worried about Ann. We got separated from her as well. If we survive this game, I need to find her.” Kuina stated as she picked at her nails.

Niragi nodded lightly before looking at Chishiya. “You’re plotting.” He stated, he knew that look. That was Chishiya’s thinking face. The one he used when he had a good idea.

“I think we should leave an extra few people here.” Chishiya spoke, loud enough for everyone to hear.

Arisu shook his head. “Why would we do that?” He asked as he looked between the four of you sitting on the ground.

“Because, their losing by a lot. So they’ll probably come to our base. We need enough people here to defend it.”

“How could you possibly know that? Maybe they’ll just look for items.” Usagi was confused because there was no way to know what the King’s team would do.

“It would be risky only having some of us looking for the items.” Arisu added.

Niragi let out a scoff. “Why do you always have to shoot us down? You know we’re trying to save ourselves, right? If you lot lose, then so do we. We four have played so many games together, we know each other’s ticks. That face, is one he makes when he has a damn good idea. So just listen.” Niragi knew it was hard for Arisu and Usagi to trust them. Niragi had beaten Arisu, whilst Chishiya had lured them into a trap.

Arisu and Usagi looked at each other for a moment. Usagi shook her head before Arisu turned back to you all. “I’m sorry, but it’s too risky. We should stick to what we were doing before. Chishiya and Tatta stay here whilst the rest of us continue looking for the items.”

Niragi let out a growl as he shook his head. He looked at Chishiya and kissed him lightly before he pulled away. “It’s a good plan.” He stood up, taking your hand in his. You gently kissed Chishiya before getting up. “We’ll be back soon.”

You waved to Chishiya, and you and Niragi walked up to Arisu and Usagi. “Let’s move.” You began to walk towards one route, only stopping to watch Niragi as he stayed in front of the duo.

“If we end up losing because you two don’t know how to put your pride aside for a game, I’ll kill you both before the leasers even appear.”

—-----

‘The player team has secured an item.’

Tatta grinned from his spot on the floor. He had tried making conversation with Chishiya, but the quiet male had basically blanked him. Tatta felt a small amount of guilt having not saying anything after the earlier disagreement.

Chishiya was in his own thoughts, hoping that you and Niragi were okay. He was pulled from his thoughts when he heard a gasp from Tatta. He turned to see the King as some of his team members. “Fuck.” He stood up and turned to Kyuma.

“Hey.” Kyuma said as he came to a stop.

“Why are you all here?” Tatta asked, making Chishiya let out a scoff.

“We’re here so we can win, man.” Kyuma stated like it was obvious. And it was. Chishiya had said this would happen.

Chishiya finally stood up and placed a hand on the pole. He looked at Tatta. “Touch it so we can get this over with.” So, Tatta did as he was told. “I’ll take the left, you take the right.”

“We have infinite points. You get tagged here and you’ll die.” Tatta’s voice was shaky. He was scared.

Kyuma looked up at the sky as he let out a breath. He then looked at the two males at the base. “You’re right. And since it’s a game of life or death, why don’t you tell us who dies by your hand?”

“What? But you’ll be killed!” Tatta was shocked. How were they all so calm? “You’ll die! Stay back!” He hated that he was in this position.

Chishiya let out a sigh. “Tatta, just pick one. If they die, it’s their own fault.”

Then it happened. Kyuma and his team rushed towards the pole.

‘The scores have been updated. The King of Club team is now leading by 4,000 points.’

‘Two players on the King of Clubs team have had their score fall below zero.”

—-----

You, Niragi and Usagi watched the score bored in shock. “Shiya was right.” You said as you shook your head. You grabbed Niragi’s hand, both of you running back to base with Usagi following behind you both.

—-----

Chishiya had managed to touch one of the players, as had Tatta. Tatta’s hand had landed on Shitara. Where has Chishiya had chosen one of the players that he hadn’t really remembered the name of.

Kyuma, Maki, Goken and Kaito looked on at their two friends. Shitara and Emi. They were sad at the thought of losing the two of them.

Shitara breathed heavily, as Emi stood with tears filling her eyes, though she put on a brave face.

“You picked me?” The male asked Tatta. He stepped back, panting. “You better use this to win.” He said, looking at his team. “If I die in vain, I’m gonna beat the shit out of you in the afterlife, man.” He let out a sob as Emi walked over and hugged him.

‘It is game over for two players.’

“Shitara, Emi. You were my good friend. I’ll never forget what you did for us.” Kyuma spoke. He didn’t want to lose two of his friends. But they had all agreed to the plan. They all knew the risks. Though it didn’t make it hurt any less.

“Later, man.” Shitara spoke, accepting his fate.

“You guys better cry hard.” Emi spoke up with a small smile on her lips. Then two lasers came down, killing them instantly.

Kyuma and his team walked over to the fallen two. All shedding tears. Kyuma, Maki and Goken all picked up Shitara whilst Kaito lifted Emi into his arms, and they then walked their way back to their base.

Tatta sat on the ground, crying. He felt guilty. He had taken a life, and he knew it was part of the game to help them win. But he still felt so incredibly guilty.

“Crying won’t change anything Tatta.” Chishiya told him as he shoved his hand into his pockets. He ignored the shocked look on Tatta’s face. He didn’t feel bad about this. Why would he?

—-----

“They sacrificed two members of their team. Now, four of them have 10,000 points each.” Arisu spoke as he leaned against the pole, near where Tatta was sitting on the floor, still.

“Couldn’t even guard one pole, huh?” Niragi was angry, and he was taking it out on Tatta. He crouched down in front of the male and flicked his hat. “You’re fucking useless.”

“Lay off of him. He did the best he could.” Usagi spoke.

“The best he could? You get a chance to kill one of them, you kill Kyuma!” Niragi came to stand by you and Chishiya.

“You’re boyfriend didn’t kill him either.” Usagi stated, her voice was almost challenging.

“It’s not that. We underestermed them.” Arisu stated, trying to put an end to the argument. “He was nice and we got sucked in, so we forgot the most important thing. “Kyuma is the King of Clubs.”

“We forgot that we’re gambling with our lives.” Niragi scoffed at Usagi’s words.

“They’re prepared to die. They’ve just shown us that. If we don’t do something, we’re finished. Only one hour left on the clock.” Arisu stated as he walked forward.

“I think we should attack their base.” Chishiya spoke, loud enough for everyone to hear.

Arisu shook his head. “No. We can’t, it’s too risky.”

“Exactly. They wouldn’t be expecting us to attack their base so soon after they attacked us. They know we’ll be playing this safe and that we’d be too scared to get them back. So it’s best to take the risk now before they win.” Chishiya’s voice was calm but clear. He had thought this through.

“No.” Arisu licked his bottom lip. He was worried about taking risks. “We need to stick with what we are doing. Going for the items is the safest choice. Avoid their base and fights.”

You let out a sigh. “But he’s right. If we attack them now and do it right, we could easily take back the win. We’d be in the lead and they wouldn’t be able to touch us.”

“Especially not if we all go.” Chishiya added with a small shrug.

Arisu thought it over for a moment before shaking his head. “The risk is too high, and we can’t leave the base unprotected.”

Niragi huffed. “They won’t come back. They have no reason to.” He stated.

“And you three thought we were going to be the problem.” Chishiya added, his arms now crossed over his chest. The three of you stood side by side. Once again a plan had been shot down.

—-----

‘The King of Clubs team has secured an item.’ ‘The King of Clubs team is now leading by 4,500 points.’

“Well, that ain’t good.” Niragi scoffed. Everyone had split up, an idea that Niragi hated. He didn’t know where you were. Sure, Chishiya was back at base, making him safe. But both males were worried about where you were. They knew you could handle yourself, but it didn’t stop the fear.

‘The scores have been updated. The King of Clubs team is now leading by 5,500 points.’ “The King of Clubs team has secured an item. The King of clubs team is now leading by 7,000 points.’

‘The scores have been updated. The King of Clubs team is now leading by 8,000 points.”

You rounded a corner to see Arisu walking into a container. You walked over.

“Arisu, did you find an item?” You asked as you stepped inside. Though Arisu wasn’t alone. Uta was there too.

“You snooze, you lose.” She spoke before tapping the button. “Yes! 3,000.”

“The most valuable item.” A voice came from right behind you, causing you to jump and yelp in surprise. Arisu grabbed your arm and pulled you close to him.

Kyuma stepped into the container.

“Wait. If you’re both here, then… no one is guarding your base?” Arisu asked.

“Nope. We figured that you wouldn’t have the guys to invade ours. And we were right, weren’t we?” Kyuma stated.

You clenched your fists, your nails digging into your palms.

“I can’t believe this.” Arisu looked defeated.

“You told me you wanted answers, Arisu. These games are cruel. You know that. The value of a single life is meaningless here. Look at me. I just lost my best friend and a close friend.”

Everything else came out fuzzy as your anger grew. Maybe you all should have fought harder about Chishiya’s idea. Maybe things would be different now. You turned to see Kyuma’s hand on Arisu’s shoulder. You grabbed Arisu’s wrist and pulled him away.

“Arisu, you must not forget this is a game of life and death. The losers will die. Show me what you’re made of, Arisu.” Kyuma spoke before Uta took a step towards you.

“Don’t even fucking think about it.” You snapped at her. This took the three by surprise. You were angry, that was clear. You pushed Arisu against the wall. “We should have listened to him. To Chishiya. You shot down two of his plans, and it led us to failure. What the hell is your problem? I get it, okay. We all understand why you don’t trust Chishiya and Niragi. I get that they tricked you. And maybe they should have gone after someone else. But we were running out of time. I understand you hate that Niragi for beating you and almost getting you killed during the ten of hearts game. I wouldn’t forgive them either if I were in your position. But-” You let a small sob. “You know their smart. You know their lives are on the line here, too. You know they’d fight for each other and me to be safe. Why couldn’t you have just listened to us? I’m going to lose the loves of my life because you, Usagi and Tatta didn’t want to listen.” Arisu watched as you dropped to the floor, tears freely running down your cheeks as you sobbed.

“We talked about it you kow.” You told him, your voice broken and shaky.

“About what?” Arisu asked in confusion as he sat down next to you, tears filled his own eyes.

“Our future together. We talked about it on the roof, during the ten of hearts game. We wanted to go home, to try being together, but in our world. Niragi is a Game Engineer. Chishiya is a Doctor, but he said he wants to be a better one. They’ve both made mistakes, so have I. But together, we’re better. We planned to move in together. A nice apartment or a cute little house to start with. We talked about getting a pet. Niragi wants a dog. Chishiya was leaning towards getting a cat. I think a bunny would be cute. We talked about maybe starting a family. I don’t want to die when the best part of my life is happening. Not when my future actually looks like it can be filled with happiness and laughter. I can’t lose that, Arisu. I can’t lose them. I don’t want to watch them die.” You covered your face with your hands as you sobbed. Arisu pulled you into his arms, letting you sob into his chest, and he rubbed your back. Neither of you was sure when Kyuma and Uta had left.

Arisu decided then and there, he wasn’t going to give up. He needed to keep fighting. All needed to. Their had to be a way to win.

—-----

‘Thirty minutes remaining.’

‘The King of Cubs team is currently leading by 12,000 points.’

Everyone was gathered around the pole. You were cuddled in between Niragi and Chishiya, both had been worried when they saw you return with Arisu, hiccuping and a face full of tear. Niragi had threaten Arisu until you stopped him.

‘Only 30 minutes left.’ Kuina spoke as she placed a hand on the pole.

“And they’re up by 12,000 points.” Niragi added as he ran his fingers through your hair.

“We can’t give up yet!” Usagi said as she looked at everyone.

“We’ve got to find more items.” Kuina crossed her arms over her chest.

“It’s not worth it.” Arisu said from his spot. He was crouched down, one hand on his knee, the other holding his head. ”There’s only a few left.”

Kuina frowned. “We have to do something! I’m not sitting here waiting to die.” She wasn’t happy, they needed to do something.

Usagi let out a small sigh as she thought things over. “Tatta and Chishiya still had over 10,000 point each. We could pair up and battle–” She was cut off as Niragi spoke up.

“Fuck that! Whose fault is it we’re in this poostion now?” He asked as he glared at Tatta. “I’m not trusting this bitch to do anything after he fucked us!”

“Chishiya was there too, You can’t just blame everything on Tatta!” Kuina turned to Niragi. She thought it was ridiculous that he was only blaming Tatta.

Niragi stood up, walking over to Kuina. “Are you being serious right now?” He asked her in disbelief.

“I’m just saying, there were two people protecting the base, not just Tatta. Chishiya was there too. You’re not ripping his head off are you? No. You’re angry and you’re taking it out on Tatta. Leave him alone. He feels bad enough.” Kuina tried to keep her voice steady, but she was annoyed and it was getting to her.

Chishiya rubbed his thumb over your knuckled before pressing a small kiss to the back of your hand. “She’s right. If you’re going to blame Tatta, might as well throw some blame at me.”

Niragi huffed. “It doesn’t matter. We can’t make up 12,000 points with little 500-point battles.”

With a sigh, you got up and walked over to the base, ready to recharge.

Arisu slowly stood up and began walking towards the pole. “If I was Kyuma, what would I…” He trailed off as his hand hovered inches away from the pole. Then he smiled. “We have to attack their base.” He quickly grabbed your wirst, stopping you from touching the base.

“Fucking finaly.” Chishiya muttered loud enough for everyone to hear.

“What?” Kuina asked in confusion, since Arisu had been so againt the idea before.

“If three of us get 30,000 points from their base. We can still win.” Arisu stated as he turned to face the group, still smiling.

“No we can’t, man. I was there when they attacked us. It’s impoosible. What makes you think we can pull it off?” Tatta asked, clearly not liking the idea.

“That’s just it. We have to stop being afraid. Believe in the plan.” Arisu replied, his smile never faded once though he did let go of your wrist, allowing you to walk back to your boyfriends and sit back down beside Chishiya.

“What are you talking about?” Kuina asked him in confusion.

“The difference between us and them is whether we let our fear stop us. We break free, and we push the fear out!” Arisu spoke as he walked closer to the group.

It was silent for a moment. You looked at Arisu with a cheeky grin on your face. “You just wanna see Kyuma again.” You spoke teasingly, causing Arisu to sigh at you but smiled softly.

“Nothing gets past your keen senses.” You were happy that he had joked back.

“You’ll invite us to the wedding right?” You asked him curiously.

Arisu chuckled and nodded his head. “Front row is all yours.”

“I can’t do it. It’s too risky.” Ugasi said, drawing Arisu’s attention to her. “I won’t throw our lives away like that.”

Chishiya rolled his eyes. “You all need to stop being so scared and sentimentlal. If we don’t go and atleast try, then we’re dead anyway. That’s it. At least this way we have a fighting chance.” Everyone turned to look at him.

Arisu walked over to you, Chishiya and Niragi. “Chishiya, you were right this entire time. We should have been taking risks but I woudn’t let us. That stops now. I’m sorry. If we want to win, we have to take risks. You’re my teammates and my friends. I don’t want any of us to die. But I would risk my life to able to save yours.”

“Well, I’m in.” Niragi said as he grabbed your and Chishiya’s hands, pulling you both up. “Not because of all this mushy shit. It’s more. I’m not the kind of guy to ever let fear get in my way.” The group smiled.

“Oh please, you just wanna see Kyuma’s ass one last time.” You spoke with a giggle before letting out a whine. Niragi had pulled your hair.

“Way to ruin the moment, baby girl.” Your taller boyfriend spoke.

Chishiya smirked beside you. “Read the room, sweetheart. It’s not Kyuma he wants to see. He needs his last few minutes with Arisu to make up and finally kiss.” That had the both of you and Kuina cackling.

Niragi sighed. “Why am I dating you two? Why am I friends with you?” He ran his hands over his face.

Arisu couldn’t help but let out a laugh as well. Watching the three of you was really entertaining. “Look, is we win, I’ll give you that kiss, Niragi.”

Niragi pulled a look of disgust. “Don’t even joke about that. No. Just don’t. What happened to teasing him about being in love with Kyuma? Pick on him, not me.”

“I want to win.” Usagi let out a small gasp before she spoke, cutting through the laughter, bringing you all back to reality. “I can’t stand aside. I want to win this.”

Kuina let out a sigh as she calmed down. “Then it’s settled. I can’t let you take all the glory.” She said looking at Niragi, causing him to chuckle.

“I..” Tatta was scared to go to the other base. It didn’t feel right.

“Tatta, you protect the base.” Arisu said, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Tatta nodded. “Okay.”

“We need a plan.” You said.

“I have one.” Chishiya and Arisu spoke at the same time.

—-----

The group had decided to combined the plans. Usgai had lured away one of the King’s players. Tatta was staying at base. The rest of you emerged from different spots around the King’s base. All ready to run.

“Are you bored yet?” Kuina asked Kyuma and his team. “You must be craving some fun. You’re looking for a rush, aren’t you?”

“You know us so well. Isn’t that right, Arisu?” Kyuma spoke as he locked eyes with Arisu.

You coudn’t help but smile. “Gosh, you two would have been adorable together in another life.”

You watched as Kyuma and his team touched their base. It buzzed to life.

“It’ll never work.” Uta spoke as she looked at your all.

“We’d still like to try though.” You told her with a bright smile. Fear be damned.

“All set?!” Kuina asked.

“Uh-huh.”

You all took off running towards the pole. Kuina managed to dodge Maki’s attacks and caused him to pull away from the pole.

You and Arisu ran in syn straight at Kyuma and Kaito. Arisu reached out to touch the pole only for Kyuma to grab his wrist, causing an electic shock to to go through both men, knocking them to the men.

Kaito realised to late what was happening as you danced around his first attack only for him to touch your shoulder. You were both elecrocuted and fell to the ground.

As the two went down, Niragi distracted Uta, he had bit his lip enough to bleed before spitting the blood in her face, allowing, him and Chishiya to grab the pole. Chisiya had calmly walked though the chaos, with everyone distracted, it was easy for him to slip past with no issues.

‘The scores have been updated.’

“Yes!” Arisu shouted happily.

“Fuck yeah!” Niragi cheered as he cupped Chishiya’s face and kissing him deeply. The two pulled away after a few moments. Chishiya made his way over to you, quickly asking if you were okay.

“Niragi!” Arisu called out, causing him to run at Maki and electrocute himself and the male.

“Kuina!” Niragi shouting causing her to start running. However, Kuina didn’t make it to the pole as Maki had gotten up and kicked her to the ground.

Uta let out a laugh. “Congrats on 20,000! Too bade it’s not enough.” She grinned.

“Well done, Arisu.” Kyuma spoke, laying on his side, one hand supporting his head as he looked at Arisu. “You’re team had a good go. But your plan has failed you. You could get the remaining items, of course, but it won’t be enough.” Kyuma streched out and laid on his back.

“Oh my gosh! Just kiss already. You two are obsessed!” You stated, causing Kaito to chuckle from beside you.

“And we’re not giving you a chance to win now.” Uta added almost gleefully. “We’re guarding the base with everything we’ve got till time runs out. You better accept it.” She spoke as she leaned against the pole.

—-----

“I’m sorry.” Kuina spoke as she bowed to you all. “This is all my fault.”

You gently squeezed her hand. “Kuina, no one blames you.”

“We gave it all we had. The plan just wasn’t good enough. I’m sorry.” Arisu looked down in defeat.

“So… so, what? That’s it?” Nitagi asked. He turned to look at you as a small sob escaped you. You pulled you into his arms. “I’m not spending my last minutes here. Come on.” He held you close, one arms wrapped around your waist, the other grabbing Chishiya’s hand as the three of you walked away.

The three of you came to a pretty spot where you could see the water clearly. It was gorcous. The three of you sat together, Niragi on your left, Chishiya on your right. You were snugged up to Niragi’s side. Chishiya sat close, his hand in yours. You sat in silence for a while, ecvept for the sobs.

‘The King of Clubs team is now leading by 500 points.”

That had you all confused. “I guess they found an item.” You spoke quietly. “I can’t believe this, it. After everything we’ve been through. All the games. All the nights spent cuddling. All the shared stories and early morning swims in the pool. And it ends like this?” You asked with a frown. It hurt, it hurt your heart and broke it apart.

Neither male knew what to say, because they felt it too. Every moment had been a beautiful git to them. Only for the future to be ripped from right under them.

“You three really are adorable.” The three of you turned to see Kyuma stood not to far away, also looking at the ocean.

“Can you not right now?” Niragi asked as he blinked away his tears.

Chishiya sighed. “If you’re looking for Arisu, he’s probably doing something dumb.”

You licked your bottom lip. “He had just started to accept you both. God, and Kuina. What about her mum? What about our future together?” You asked.

Kyuma let out a sigh as he faced the three of you. “You shouldn’t regret what you havn’t experienced. Appreciate the time the three of you had together. Finding one person who completes and loves you is something not everyone gets. You three got lucky finding two people.”

The words hung in the air for a while.

“I love you both.” You said softly with a small smile. Tears still falling freely “I don’t regret anything. That first night together in my room, I’m so happy it happened. I’m so grateful you both decided to give us a chance.” You then gently kissed them both.

Niragi stroked your hair. “I’m glad I said yes. You two helped me to feel like more than just a monster. And I’m grateful that you both anoyed me into spending time with Kuina. She’s actually really cool.” He and Chishiya shared a kiss.

Chishiya squeezed your hand gently. “I’ve smiled with you two more here, in the Borderlands than I have in my whole life. If this is it. At least we go together, because I don’t want to live in a world where neither of you exist.”

The kisses have all been the same. Deep, passionate, full of love and want. Expressing all the thank yous, all the wants for the future. The kisses were a sealed promise to find each other in your next lives.

—-----

“You decided to come.” Kyuma’s voice came causing the three of you to turn, there stood Arisu.

“Something told me that I would find you here.” Arisu replied.

“Gosh, you two just always seem to find each other. Seriously though, when’s the wedding?” You asked, cusing Arisu to chucke.

Kyuma looked at the four of you in confusion. “Wedding?” He asked in amusement.

“Mhm, your and Arisu’s wedding. You were are a little too obsessed with each other. So your either going to kiss or kill each other.” You told him, causing the man to sowly nod.

“You have such a fun brain.” He told you, causing you to preen at the complement.

Arisu walked towards Kyuma. “I wanted to see if you might be waiting for me here.” He ignored your muttering comment of ‘they are so in love. You don’t just say that to people.’ However, he did turn to Chishiya. “Tatta is looking for you. You should go find him.”

That left the three of you in confusion. Though Chishiya caught the look in Arisu’s eyes. He stood up and walked away.

“The ocean is wide. That’s why we’re drawn to it. We want to commune with something bigger than we are.” Kyuma spoke as he looked back at the ocean.

Arisu walked closer to the edge, seeing the view. It was nice. Really nice. “You and your team beat us.” He looked down at his shoes.

Kyuma turned to him. “So, do you have any regrets?” He asked curiously.

Arisu nodded his hea lightly. “I’m a bit disappointed. Tell me Kyuma. I need to know the answer. Before I die.”

“You know I can’t.” Kyuma told him. “You’ve given up.”

“I thought you’d say that. Well, then…what about one last handshake before I go? What would you say to that?” Arisu asked.

“A handshake? The game isn’t over yet.” Kyuma stated. “If we shake hands now…” He trailed off, letting the unspoken linger in the air.

Niragi kissed your temple and got up. “I’m gonna go find Chishiya and Kuina. I’l bring them back here.” He said before walking off. It didn’t feel right not having you all together for your last moments.

“I finally realised something about myself, because of what you said. I should have been ready to listen. I should have waited for them to come to me. Let them know they could depend on me. And maybe we could’ve understood each other a little better then. I know we’re enemies. You’re my opponent. And I know it might seem like i’m being crazy. But I still want to say thank you.” Arisu took a step with every word he spoke, getting closer and closer to Kyuma.

“Thank you for helping me realize those things. I know that… I don’t have much time left to do anything else. I know I’m gonna die. So please, let me shake the hand of the one who showed me my true self.” Arisu smiled softly as he spoke.

Kyuma let out a sigh before nodding. “Alright. Since it’s my opponent’s dying wish. I’d be honored to grant it to you.” The male walked towards Arisu who smiled at him.

“Thank you, Kyuma.”

“Arisu. Getting to battle with you was a great pleasure.” Kyuma held his hand out.

Arisu took in a creath as he placed a hand in his pocket and shook Kyuma’s hand with his other.

‘The scores havebeen updated. The player team is leading by 500 points.’

“Oh my Gosh. Arisu.” You waked over to him. “How did you do that?”

“Tatta.” He told you as he took Tatta’s bracelet from his pocket. “It’s why I told Chishiya he was looking for him.”

You kissed his cheek and smiled. “Thank you, Arisu.” You then looked at Kyuma. “It was nice meeting you. Thank you for being a great King.” With that, you turned and ran to look for your boyfriends.

‘There is no time remaining. It is game over for the King of Clubs team, as they ended with fewer points.’

—-----

The blimp had fallen. You had won the game.

“Tatta are you alright? Hang on, Tatta!” Arisu spoke as knelt beside Tatta.

Chishiya sighed. “He’s lost way to much blood.”

Arisu didn’t want to accept that. “Tatta, please you have to hold on.”

“You see, when I try I can be great.” Tatta spoke. He was tired, he was in shock. He was glad the team had won but a part of him knew that he was dying. Chishiya had tried to help, but Tatta had lost too much blood by the time Chishiya had gotten to him. So Chishiya had focused on making him comfortable and taking to stop anymore blood lost.

“Yeah. You are great.” Arisu replied, smiling sadly at Tatta. “We won because of you Tatta. Thank you.” With that, Tatta was able to rest. His eyes closed and he took his final breath.

The group was devisated at the loss.

—-----

The group stood at the burial sight that had chosen for Tatta. A pole sticking out the the ground to show where he was. Arisu placed Tatta’s hat on the pole. Kuina placed some flowers on his grace.

“It’s a pretty view.” Kuina spoke as she took a step back. “This is a nice place to rest.”

“Yeah.” Usagi quietly agreed.

“We can’t let his death be for nothing. We need to keep going, to keep Tatta’s memory alive.”

“I’m grateful i’m alive, and it’s because of it. So, thank you.” Niragi tried to keep his voice low and quiet. But the group heard, no one said anything. But you and Chishiya squeezed his hands.

“We need to go.” Chishiya spoke. Causing Niragi to nod.

Kuina turned in confusion. “Where are we going?” She asked curiously.

“Kuina. You need to stay with Arisu and Usagi. Find Ann. Niragi and I promised Chishiya we’d play the Jack of Hearts game if it was still here once the King of Clubs game was complete. So that’s where the three of us are going.” You told her softly as the two of you walked over to each other.

“But we just found each other.” Kuina pouted slightly.

“I know. And we will again. In a game or in the cenrte. Where we were waiting for the games to start. Where the King of Spades started. Give it a day and we’ll all find each other again.” The two of you shared a teary hug before pulling away.

Kuina turned to the two males. “You two better look after my girl or i’ll kick your asses.” She said as hugged them both, they hugged her back.

As they hugged, you hugged Arisu and the Usagi. “Thank you for giving us a chance.”

Arisu nodded. “We’ll see you three in a day.” He said. “Good luck, be safe.”

Usagi gave you a small smile. “We’ll be waiting for you all.”

You walked back to your boys. Niragi wrapped an arm around your waist, pulling you close, his other arm went around Chishiya’s shoulders, allowing you and Chishiya to entwine your hands behind his back. The three of you walked, heading towards the next game. The Jack of Hearts.

—-----

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sometimesanalice · 2 years ago

Text

Wildest Dreams

Summary: Never in your wildest dreams would you have expected to be waiting at a Naval hangar for a man you’d met two months ago during Fleet Week. Let alone one you’d only known for less than twenty-four hours. (Even if it had been the best sex of your life.)

Pairing: Bradley 'Rooster' Bradshaw x Female Reader

Length: 6k

Warning: fluff, smut, and the return of the summer dress whites (minors dni)

(author's note: this was written as part of @laracrofted's 1989(TV) challenge. It is a prequel to Hey, Sailor, but can be read on its own!)

This has the potential to be the best idea you’ve ever had or the worst.

Although based on the way you kind of want to shimmy out of your too tight skin, you’re starting to think it might be the worst.

You are out of place and out of sorts. There are kids giggling and running around with homemade posters covered in bright neon bubble letters and you aren’t even wearing a bra.

Oh god, what were you thinking?

Never in your wildest dreams would you have expected to be waiting for a man you’d only met two months ago during Fleet Week. Let alone one that you had known for less than twenty-four hours and had sex with within the first two hours of meeting. But you couldn’t think about that too much without your face heating up.

And waiting at Naval Air Station North Island, no less.

Oh, this was a very bad idea.

The happy chatter of excited friends and family of the deployed squadron members, who are due to return within the hour, is bouncing off of the cavernous curved walls of the hangar you’re standing in. Bursts of delighted laughter rippling throughout the space.

And with each passing minute the thumping of your heart pounds a little harder against the walls of your chest. Whether it’s anticipation or apprehension you couldn’t say.

Under normal circumstances the energy would be infectious, the atmosphere around you is bubbly and light, but all it does is make you feel like it is glaringly obvious that you don’t fit in here with the rest of the clusters of families.

That is if your nice yet slightly-too-revealing-to-be-family-friendly dress didn’t already give you away.

The only perk of it at the moment was that the breeze against the bare skin of your exposed back was keeping you from breaking out in an anxious full body sweat in the summer heat.

In your defense, you’d picked this dress out for a reason and had chosen it with a purpose in mind. Even if you were second guessing every decision that has led you here.

Over the last two months, you had changed your mind more frequently than the wind changed direction.

He’d been brought into your life on a high tide of champagne bubbles that had swiftly taken him right back out, leaving a wake of nothing but champagne problems.

Every time you thought about recycling the packet of papers that had taunted you and tempted you in equal parts, you were reminded of the warm brown eyes of the person who had given it to you. And it never failed to set your heart a flutter the same way had when he’d given it to you with that soft, cautiously hopeful smile.

You have the registration form that had gotten you through the heavily secured gate clutched tightly in your hand as if you’re waiting for some uniformed security official to come up to question you then escort you off the base.

Although now it’s so crumbled and creased that you don’t know if they’d even be able to read it.

Worst of all, you had no way to distract your busy mind from all your buzzing thoughts.

They’d taken your phone at the gate, a security measure they’d told you as you watched them tag it with your name and put in a slim cubby for you to collect when you left.

Which might be sooner than you thought, because the longer you stand there waiting and shifting on your feet the more you were fighting the urge to backpedal. To spin on your strappy sandaled feet and hightail it back to your car and drive the legally posted limit only until you made it past those intimidating chain link gates before flooring it, getting as far away from this cheery, happy hanger as quickly as possible.

And yet for whatever reason, your antsy feet and tapping toes stay planted on shiny finish of the industrial cement of the hanger.

This is crazy.

You’d thought it as you slipped on and tied the flimsy straps of your pink ruffled sundress and collected all of your things. Pausing to double check that you had your Driver’s License, Passport, and Social Security card in your purse for the fourth time that day.

This is ridiculous.

You’d thought it as you’d drove along the highway to the Naval base that you had only been to only once a couple of months ago. The sun beaming down on your car with hardly a cloud in the sky. A perfect golden California day, even if your mind was in a hazy fog.

This is foolish.

You’d definitely thought that on loop, like a broken record in your mind, as you’d waited in the long line of cars all done up in window paints and streamers packed with grinning, eager faces all queued up for the same reason.

When you had finally made it to the front of the line, your heart had been pounding away beating a mile a minute. Your palms sweating as you handed over the three-page packet and identification cards to the security working the gates.

The Use of Deadly Force Authorized sign was a stark contrast with the smiles of the officials who greeted you.

You were positive you looked as shifty as you felt. But it seemed the only person who thought you looked like a red flag was you. Because they’d barely given you a second glace as they’d waved you through after checking your paperwork. You had almost blurted out Are you sure?, but managed to keep it together as you waited for the red arms of the barrier gate to lift.

That final hurdle officially out of your hands because you were finally there and soon he’d be here.

During one white wine fueled late night evening on your couch you’d allowed yourself to indulge in those tempting taunting what-ifs.

What-if you went.

What-if you waited.

What-if you met him there.

And in your casual research somewhere between the third and fourth glass of Sauvignon Blanc, before you had scrolled back three years on the base’s official Instagram page and googled the sure-to-be redacted version of the visitor’s map of the base, you’d read that sometimes they’d direct visitors to park in a lot on the edge of the base to be shuttled to the designated homecoming hanger.

Thankfully, there would be no shuttles operating on military efficient timetables for you. Since you’d been directed to a parking lot that sat across from a large hanger decorated with waving and winking banners of bold red, white, and blues.

You couldn’t help release a little sigh of relief knowing that you’d be able to make an easy escape if you needed to.

Because if this was going to take you down, if the sun was going to set on your gleaming gilded what-ifs, at least you could leave with your head held high. Even if your tail would be between your legs.

Just in case, you had built it up in your head.

Just in case, he changed his mind.

Because this was crazy, this was ridiculous, this was foolish. But you didn’t want those memories from two months ago to follow you around like a ghost of what could have been.

You wanted to see what it could be. What you hoped it might become.

You’ve thought about that night a lot.

Flashes of sturdy white twill and toned muscles and a low, raspy voice had kept you up more nights than you were willing to acknowledge. You’d lost time thinking about warm hands and a rich laugh and lips that left hot trails along your body that you still felt like a ley line under your skin.

After the mark beneath your ear had faded, the only proof it all hadn’t been some gold rush dream was the flimsy piece of paper currently grasped in your hand like a lifeline.

Before that night you’d never understood the draw of Fleet Week. It seemed like the type of mess you’d purposely avoided. Nights that left you either with a good story to tell over brunch or in mascara coated tears crumpled like a piece of paper on the ground.

But now, you didn’t think you’d ever be able to think of it without thinking of it and him with only the rosiest of memories.

Your mind wanders as you remember the way he’d made you felt. Of being around him, of tangled up with him. You’re too busy thinking about heated smiles and pretty scars that the sound sneaks up on you.

It starts out as a low rumble that swiftly builds into a roar that shakes you out of that shimmering lavender haze. Cheers break out in the crowd as people flood out of the hanger and onto the tarmac to get a better view.

Looking around you, there are kids pressing their hands to their ears as the squeal and shout in delight. Their faces turning up to the skies as they enthusiastically wave at the aircrafts flying towards the base with perfect precision.

You get as close to the edge of the hanger as you dare. Toeing the line between cracked industrial cement and sundrenched asphalt, still unsure your place in all of this. Not quite ready to fully give yourself up to the swift current of honey hued possibility.

There are at least a dozen jets approaching in sharp triangular and diamond shaped formations. Clusters of four flying in flawless alignment with one another, their shiny bodies stand out in relief against the cloudless blue skies. It’s a gravity defying ballet as the individual groups merge together in impeccable unison to form one large unit.

Your jaw drops open in awe and your heart soars into your throat at the stunningly impressive sight.

They speed impossibly fast overhead and within seconds all that remains are the contrails of their coming and the knowledge that soon they’ll have their feet back on the ground with the rest of you.

The low, thick whomp whomp whomp of large helicopter propellers approaching behind them in the distance like an echo as more and more of the deployed squadron arrive for their homecoming.

You almost can’t hear it over the steady drumbeat of your heartbeat in your ears.

Because he’s back. He’s here.

After two months of wondering and waiting, you’re about to find out.

It’s all happening now.

“It’s her last fling before the ring! Cheers, bitches!”

You didn’t know whether you were impressed or one enthusiastic woo! away from losing it at the amount of puns Amanda, the maid of honor, had been able to come up with for the evening.

To no one’s surprise, tequila shots and champagne were a dangerous combo.

When the bride-to-be had said she wanted to keep things local and have a staycation type girl’s weekend for her bachelorette party, you and your bank account had been thrilled. It wasn’t until you all had left for the hotel all gussied up in your sparkling hot pink finest to head out for dinner that you noticed all the white uniforms dotting the sidewalks and seated out on some of the outdoor terraces.

It was Fleet Week.

You’ve lived in San Diego for almost five years now. And while running into someone in the Navy was commonplace, in both the grocery store and on the dating apps you’d redownloaded a few months ago, Fleet Week was something that you’d always purposely avoided. Opting to stay home and out of the fray.

However, you were coming off of a break up with a man who had slowly sucked all the color from your world. And this weekend was just the thing you needed to let go, to be unabashedly uninhibited, to reclaim your shimmer.

Your shiny pink dress is three inches shorter and your heels two inches taller than anything you’d ever worn before. There had been a brief moment when you’d felt self-conscious stepping into the lobby of the hotel, aware of just how much skin was on display with short hem and the low dip of the back of your dress, until your best friend had given you the loudest wolf-whistle known to mankind sending you into a fit of giggles.

And instead of shying away from the eyes that had been drawn to you in that moment, you sparkled.

You didn’t quite feel like your old self yet, but you were on your way. You liked this version of yourself so much better than the shell of a girl you’d been before. You liked the one who could be bold and brave and bejeweled.

The upscale bar is packed and it’s just the kind of lively atmosphere where tonight’s bad decisions could become tomorrow’s good stories.

It felt less like a club and more like a large stylish living room, with its cozy clusters of oversized chairs and couches. Pockets of the room were cast in a soft lavender light, while the rest was awash in a golden glow from the massive modern chandelier that ran the length of the room. Gleaming brass accents were offset with the warm tones of the wooden paneling that lined the walls. It was soft, lush, and inviting.

The music was good and there was even a small dancefloor, but it wasn’t so loud that you couldn’t enjoy having a conversation with someone without shouting. The bar looked more like a library than a place to get your drinks with its black leather tufted base and dark wooden built-ins displaying shiny bottles like a prized book collection. And the cocktails were stellar.

It was obvious why so many people had ended up here tonight, both civilians and Naval personnel on leave.

“Oh, hello there,” you hear your best friend practically purr, pulling you from your internal debate about another ordering another shot of tequila.

You look over to see her staring at the door where two tall officers have just entered with a devious gleam in her eyes.

The one on the left was just her type, a pretty boy with the kind of megawatt smile that would have orthodontists dying to get a closer look. He looked the cocky kind of confident now, but you knew if your friend made her move she’d have him wrapped around her finger before the bartenders even announce last call.

The man next to him was the taller one of the two and sporting a mustache that might have looked ridiculous on anyone else, but for whatever reason it suited him very well. Especially when it was paired with that easy grin he was currently wearing as he laughed along with something his friend was saying. Even from across the room you could tell he’d be even more attractive up close.

Their tans and the definition of their arms were offset by the crisp whites of their short-sleeved uniforms. And looking at them you could finally understand the appeal of Fleet Week.

Men like that could easily make a girl lose her mind amongst other things.

You had no doubt in your mind that these two in particular would be a hot commodity tonight. There were already quite a few heads turned in their direction to watch as they made their way towards the bar. Appreciative eyes glinting as they take in just how well they both filled out their uniforms.

Another loud woo! from your group of friends pulls your attention back to them in time to see another bottle of champagne, complete with a bright sparkler, being delivered to the table you had all chipped in for the evening.

At this rate, someone was either going to end up on top of a table or on the confetti covered floor.

You chance another look back over your shoulder towards the two men who’d just saddled up to the bar and are met with a pair of mischievous eyes already trained on you.

An electric touch races up along your spine.

You’re still a safe distance far enough away to where you can allow yourself to take him in, fighting the urge to hastily look away and pretend it was an accident that your eyes connected when you had definitely been trying to sneak another peek at them- at him in particular. You see his smile pull to the left and his cheek tick up as you hold his gaze.

He’s less than subtle in the way he lets his eyes drag over the exposed skin of your back and down the line of your legs before letting them settle back on your face. When you shoot him a pointed raise of your eyebrow, that smirk on his face just grows even wider.

It makes your stomach swoop, and even worse, it makes your own lips turn up in an amused smile in response.

An unabashed flirt.

There’s no doubt in your mind he knows exactly what he is doing. You’re sure he has practiced this kind of silent conversation many times. That over the years he has polished his technique to a shiny, smooth finish.

You know nothing good can come from a man in a uniform, but a man in uniform during Fleet Week is a different kind of trouble altogether.

And one who looks like that? Big and broad, with confidence rolling off of him in waves?

No, nothing good could come from it.

Taking one more sweep of his face you turn away from him and opt to sip on some cold water instead.

Your best friend is still making eyes with the man with the dimples, so you start up a conversation with one of the other bridesmaids you don’t know as well as some of the others. She was a sweetheart, but you could tell this wasn’t her usual scene so it felt like you were doing a lot of the heavy lifting for the conversation.

It also didn’t help that you were trying and failing to ignore the way it had felt when he looked at you, like sparks dancing across your skin that you could still feel like a phantom touch.

You’re struggling to come up with a new topic of conversation when cloud of white sequins and rhinestones and tulle bulldozes into you.

“Come get a drink with us,” the bride-to-be declares as she hooks her arm with yours and starts tugging you towards the bar.

You see that your best friend is already a couple steps ahead of the two of you and heading in the same direction to the bar, purpose in every step she takes.

“You need a break from free champagne?” you ask with a grin.

“I want something pink!” she sings.

You laugh at her dedication to the theme, “Ok, let’s get you something pink.”

“Yes, let’s,” she agrees.

As you get closer to the bar, you ignore the pull in your stomach and the gaze of the broad man who lingers in your peripheral vision. It had been heady from a distance you had no clue how you’d fair with it directed at you up close.

You’re not surprised in the least when your best friend passes by the open space at the bar and flounces right up to the officer with the dimples. And you’re even less surprised when she takes the shot that was held loosely in his hand and tosses it back in one go, before running her thumb along the bottom of her lip and giving him a sharp, feline grin. The now shot-less man rises up to the occasion and gives her a matching one of his own, the interest gleaming in his eyes.

However, you are very much shocked when your soon-to-be-wed friend all but shoves you towards the man with the mustache.

Your hands dart out to catch yourself on the bar, but one ends up on his thick forearm instead as he reaches out to steady you. His other hand is braced low on your hip, big and warm. Glancing down you can see that his pinky is very near the hem of your short dress.

You toss her a withering glare over your shoulder, but she’s already bobbling back towards the group very clearly pleased with herself.

As you turn to look up at him, all words escape you and your breath gets caught in your throat.

He’s handsome as hell.

And up close, that uniform has the potential to be even more life ruining than it was from a distance.

It is almost obscene the way it clings to the bulk of him. The sleeves of his shirt were stretched out around his biceps and pulled taut across his chest. His pants look almost molded to his thighs and long legs. It’s almost dizzying just how good-looking he is in it.

And you’re absolutely mortified.

“Hey, Sailor,” you say weakly at an attempt to diffuse the awkwardness of how you’ve come to be pressed against his hard body.

He throws his head back and laughs. It’s low and lush, rich and raspy. And god, do you like the sound of it.

But there’s still a rush anxious energy that courses through you, unsure if he’s laughing at you or the situation you’ve both been literally thrust into. You’re tempted to step back out of his reach, but his fingers tighten the gentlest bit where his hand still sits on your hip keeping you in place.

There’s amusement dancing behind his brown eyes and that smile of his up close is even more devastating. And you can’t help but shoot him a sheepish smile in return.

“That’s one way to make an entrance,” he grins.

“I am so sorry about that,” you say gesturing to the gaggle of giggling girls watching on from the corner of the room. You get your feet righted underneath you and take a half-step back.

And this time he lets you, his pinky grazing the skin of your upper thigh as he does.

“I’m not,” he says, leaning against the shiny black and white marble slab of the bar top, “I was hoping you’d come over here.”

You refuse to let yourself get flushed, but the heat races to your cheeks all the same.

Instead you pivot.

“I feel like I should warn you, she’s going to eat your friend alive,” you say, gesturing to your best friend who is looking every inch the menace you know her to be.

He glances over towards where his friend and yours are talking. His friend’s shot has been replaced and they’re both wearing a pair of dueling smiles. Their conversation too quiet to hear, but you know that tone of hers and what it means.

The good kind or the bad kind it was too early in the evening to say.

You allow yourself a brief moment to admire his profile, your eyes tracing over his cheekbones and jaw, noticing a few scars that dot his sunkissed skin.

He lets out a low chuckle and looks back towards you, “Good. Hangman has been a pain in my ass for years. Serves him right. It’ll be good for his ego.”

“Hangman?” you ask, eyebrows pinching together.

“Oh, right. That’s Jake,” he clarifies, nodding over to his friend, “Hangman is his callsign. Bagman if he’s pissing me off, which is often enough. We’re both Naval aviators.”

Well, that explained the aura of self-assuredness that radiated from the two of them from the very moment you’d seen them.

The uniform was bad enough on its own, but a pilot?

Trouble was definitely too small a word for this man, he’d need a different category created for him altogether.

“Can’t say I’m too mad at him right now though. I wanted to go somewhere more lowkey, but he said ‘pretty girls like pretty places’,” he gives you a slow smile as his eyes drift over you, “Turns out he was right. But don’t tell him that I said that, he’ll be insufferable.”

And then he has the audacity to wink at you.

You absolutely will not be getting tangled up with a pilot. But you were definitely up for a little fun, and decide there is no harm in indulging in some friendly banter.

“So are you going to tell me your callsign or do I have to guess?” you tease.

“It’s Rooster.”

You swallow down the quip that comes to your mind first, and ask instead, “Do you come with a first name, Rooster? Or did the Navy claim that too?”

He has Bradshaw emblazoned on the nametag on his chest, but you’re so curious to find out the answer. You’ve never been so interested collecting breadcrumb pieces of someone before, there’s something in the way he’s looking at you that makes you want to know more.

“I’m Bradley,” he grins wider, holding out his hand to you.

You look from him to his big hand and then back to him again, debating on how much you want to give him in return. He lifts a playful eyebrow his hand still outstretched as he waits for your move.

So you put your hand in his and give him your name.

Rooster repeats it back as if he’s testing out the way the syllables and consonants of your name feel in his mouth. And if he’s slow to let go of your hand, you let it slide without a comment.

“Well, since it’s Fleet Week and all, Bradley Rooster Bradshaw, I think would be pretty unpatriotic for me to not buy you a drink as an apology for my friends and for subjecting you that poorly executed line.”

His features take on a very contemplative look as he lets out a low, quiet hmm.

“I don’t know about that,” he deliberates.

“About the drink?” you ask, fully prepared to make a hasty retreat before you make yourself look any more ridiculous than you already did.

“No, about the line,” Rooster says, whiskey smooth, “I think it was pretty effective.”

“Really? That’s all it took, huh?” you laugh, “You must have been stuck on that ship for a while.”

Flagging down the bartender, you order a couple shots of chilled tequila.

You see Bradley reach into his shirt pocket, pulling out a few loose bills to pay. There’s definitely nowhere for a wallet to go in those pants. Sliding in front of him, letting yourself graze up against him just the slightest bit, you tell the bartender to put the shots on your group’s open tab. You can see them still spying on you, so it was the least they could do for a free show.

You spin towards him and rest your elbows on the bartop behind you with a grin. He just smirks and shakes his head at you with a look that you’d almost want to call fond if you’d actually known him for longer than ten minutes.

“So, how long were you deployed? Are you headed back to wherever home is after this weekend is over?” you ask.

“I’m actually stationed here permanently in San Diego,” Bradley says, pausing for a moment before continuing, “But I am headed out for a two-month deployment tomorrow.”

He’s looking at you closely, as if he is trying to gauge your reaction to him showing you his cards so early. Here today, but gone tomorrow.

This open honesty from him makes him even more attractive in your eyes. He’s the type of man who could so easily wreck your plans if you gave him the chance to. And for a split second, you can almost see the end before anything can even begin.

“Well, it’s nice of the city to give you such a nice send-off then,” you say lightly, ignoring the twinge in your stomach.

Thankfully, the bartender returns with the chilled shots, you thank him and then hand Bradley one of the shot glasses cheers-ing him with your own, “To Uncle Sam’s overly inflated defense budget.”

He snorts and watches as you raise the glass to your lips. Feeling bold under the warmth of his gaze, your tongue darts out as you lick the smoked salt off the rim before swallowing down the shot, not breaking eye contact with him once.

You’re beyond delighted when notice the tips of his ears are a little pink as he throws back his own. The heaviness from earlier shifting into a more exciting kind of tension as your gazes bounce off of each other.

Bradley leans a bit into your space as he sets his empty glass on the bartop, “Can I let you in on a secret?”

“Only if it’s a juicy one,” you counter, more than happy to take the bait.

“It wasn’t just the line. Your little tiara thing is doing it for me too,” he says reaching out and adjusting the rhinestone Bridesmaid headband that you’d completely forgotten you were wearing. His thumb skimming over your temple as he withdraws his hand.

You could handle an unabashed flirt, but a charming unabashed flirt whose smile was setting off a flurry of butterflies in your chest was not on the agenda for tonight.

“Do you want to swap, Rooster?” you tease nodding your head towards the white and shiny black-rimmed hat that is sitting snugly on top of his head.

“Nah, I don’t think I could pull it off as well as you do.” He shoots you another wink, one that has your toes curling in your pretty-but-too-tall heels. “Plus, mine is technically government property. They don’t let just anyone wear it, not without earning it.”

You don’t miss the way his eyes dip down to your lips.

The shot of tequila makes you brave enough to contemplate asking just exactly one would have to do to earn a turn wearing his hat, but the two of you are startled out of bubble you had found yourselves in at the sound of a sharp slap.

You peer curiously around Bradley to see Hangman looking equal parts shell-shocked and starry eyed after your best friend as she struts away from him with a swing in her hips, her hair bouncing with each step.

“I should-” your own eyes betray you by slipping down to his parted lips when you look back at him, “I should go check on her.”

“You don’t have to go just because Bagman is an idiot. Let me get you a drink and return the favor. Please,” he says, his big brown eyes asking you to stay.

“No, I really should. Thanks for indulging my friends and for the company, Bradley. Enjoy the rest of Fleet Week.” Before you can overthink it, you lean in a press a kiss to his cheek. Giving him one more smile, one that doesn’t feel as bright as you’d like it to be, you turn and leave.

You hustle to catch up with your friend as she makes her way back to your bedazzled group, “Hey, are you ok? What the hell did he say?”

She waves off your concern with a Cheshire cat grin, “Oh, that man is about to be so obsessed with me.”

Over the next hour it is impossible to keep your eyes from straying back to him. You try to lose yourself to the music on the small dancefloor and in the raunchy girl talk. Every time you dared to take a peek at him, you’d been surprised to see him already looking at you instead of chatting up some other girl.

At one point, he’d even been bold enough to pat the space next to him as an open invitation. You’d simply smiled and shook your head at him, laughing to yourself when he dramatically clutched at his heart in response.

It’s not until a very large bottle of Dom Perignon Brut Rosé is delivered your table, a cheer going up as the bottle service girl discloses who had it sent over, that you’re made to reevaluate your plans for the evening.

The two men are still at the bar, but you don’t miss the satisfied smirk of on your best friend’s face as she helps herself to some of the pink bubbly.

Instead of a glass, you’re offered a threat.

“We all know what she’s doing, but if I see you at brunch tomorrow I’m kicking you out of the wedding,” the bride-to-be cheerfully trills, albeit tipsily, as she presses your clutch into your hand and shoos you away. Officially dismissed from your bridesmaid duties for the remainder of the weekend.

You take the long way around the edge of the room to the bar, giving yourself a minute to debate the pros and cons of what you were planning to do. But as the crowd parts and you see him, still planted in the same place you’d left him, all the bullet-pointed items on your mental list dissolve like sugar in an Old Fashioned at the sight of his warm whiskey brown eyes.

This time it’s no accident in the way you slide up to him.

“Well, Rooster, you’ve got my attention.”

“Good. I like your attention,” he says with an all too pleased grin. “I was worried I was going to have to come join in you over there. The last bachelorette party we ran into kept wanting me to give the bride a lap dance. It looked pretty dire there for me for a moment. You bridesmaids are an intimidating bunch.”

He doesn’t strike you as someone who would shy away from the attention.

“Feral, drunk, horny women aren’t your thing? Or are you just anti lap dance?” you ask with a cheeky tilt of your head.

“Feral and horny women for sure. And I am very pro lap dance, I’ll have you know. I’m just picky about who I give them too. For example, if you were to ask nicely, I’d be more than happy to demonstrate,” he offers, his cheek ticking up on one side.

He made you feel an exhilarating kind of reckless. And if you were only going to get one night with him, you were going to make the most of it.

“That’s a very expensive bottle of champagne that just got delivered to us.”

“Well, it’s Fleet Week after all.”

“We established that earlier tonight,” you note jokingly.

“So we did,” Bradley acknowledges with a dip of his chin. “And in the spirit of Fleet Week, it seemed like a good gesture to further advance and cultivate better civilian and military relations.”

“Is that what they’re calling it these days?” you laugh.

“Ok, funny girl. Tell me then, what do you think Fleet Week is about?” he asks, settling in and leaning his elbow on the bartop.

You don’t even hesitate.

“Getting free drinks and getting laid.”

“Ok, ok. You’ve got me there,” he chuckles. “Can’t say that hasn’t been part of the draw for me in the past.”

“So you admit you’re doing it wrong,” you can’t help but tease him as you throw a thumb over your shoulder towards the $500 bottle of champagne that’s bubbling away in glasses.

“In my defense, Hangman and I went dutch on it,” Rooster says as he puts his hands up in surrender. “Plus, if you remember, I already had a very pretty girl buy me a drink tonight.” His eyes drag over you pointedly, then lets them linger at your mouth again.

“Only the one?” you ask peering up at him.

“The only one I wanted.”

“And how many others have offered?” you ask, stepping even closer. You can feel the heat rolling off of him in waves even in the well airconditioned room.

He weighs his words before answering, “A few.”

A moment passes between the two of you as crystal-clear clarity settles around you.

The old you would have dropped it, but this version of you, the one you liked being around him was ready to press further.

“So the free drinks have been covered,” you say, fingertips tracing up along the veins of his forearm, “And what about getting laid?”

“I’d be more than happy with a phone number and a date lined up for sixty-two days from now,” Rooster says resting a hand low on your back, his thumb skimming along your bare skin. “But if you wanted, I wouldn’t mind showing you just how invested I am in furthering those civilian-military relations.”

The desire in his eyes makes any lingering doubts in your mind evaporate like a marine layer.

“Is that so, Sailor? How civically inclined of you.”

“Lieutenant Commander, actually,” he says with pride as he straightens up to his full height, his chest looking impossibly broader as he does.

“Lieutenant Commander Bradley Rooster Bradshaw?” you hum, “Now that’s quite a mouthful.”

The low rumble that escapes his chest makes goosebumps erupt across your body.

“You’re trouble,” he murmurs, pulling you closer as he brings his other hand to the curve of your hip.

“Oh please. You handle multimillion-dollar aircrafts for a living, I’m sure you could handle little ol’ me,” you say with a wink.

It’s a challenge, it’s a dare.

“Yeah, I bet I could too,” he rasps, looking at your lips.

He shouldn’t be so easy to like, shouldn’t have you wanting moremoremore when you’ve known him less than two hours.

You bring your hands to his chest, your fingers toying with the little button near the hollow of his throat, “So, you’re shipping out tomorrow…”

You feel as he stiffens slightly under your palms, but his gaze remains steady on you, “Yeah, tomorrow evening. It’s not the greatest of timing, I know.”

“Well then, I guess if there’s a clock we’re working against, we should probably get this show on the road,” you say nodding towards the door.

You watch as the remorse in his eyes is replaced with a mischievous glint. The solemn press of his lips transforming into a slow, knowing smirk.

And you know he’s game.

“You gonna take me home with you, sweetheart?”

“Maybe,” you muse with faux contemplation, looking at him from under your mascara coated lashes, “Do I get a tax break if I do?”

“I’d be more than happy to google it in the cab. And if you do, I’ll even fill out the form for you.”

You see a flash of a grin before he pulls you in for a kiss.

His warm hand and callous fingers glide up your back pressing you against his chest as his lips meet yours. In that moment you are Midas touched, the blood thrumming through your veins feels like liquid gold. Electricity racing from where you’re connected to every nerve ending in your body.

You pull away from him all too soon, smiling to yourself when he chases after your lips.

“I have one condition,” you say, wrapping your arms around his neck.

“Name it,” Bradley says, dropping another lingering kiss to your lips.

“Maybe two,” you concede.

“Name them,” he chuckles lightly.

“You wear a condom.”

“Of course, that’s a given. What else?” He leans back just enough to adjust your sparkly headband from the way it had tilted back on your head.

“And my last request is… that I get to try on your hat.”

“We can definitely make that happen. Anything you want, baby.”

“Well then, if that’s the case, I’m also pretty set on getting to have your cock in my mouth.”

“Jesus Christ.” His hands tighten on your hips, and his brown eyes turn molten.

“I think I’m looking forward to finding out if you’re an officer or a gentleman.”

“I’m definitely both,” Rooster says giving you an all too confident look that promises he has the skill to back up his words, “At least until these dress whites come off.”

You hear another woo! ring out that you know has nothing to do with another delivery of expensive champagne as he takes you by the hand and leads you out of the jewelry box bar.

There are already a few cabs lined up at the rank outside of the hotel. He holds the door open for you, and you slide in giving the driver your address. You’re not sure how Bradley manages to squeeze the bulk of him into the backseat along with you, but you don’t mind the way his thigh presses against yours or the way he rests his heavy hand on your knee or the way his thumb makes maddeningly light circles there.

He laughs when you hold up your phone to him at the flurry of all capitalized and emoji riddled text messages in the group chat that had been created for the evening. And when the driver pulls up to your apartment building, when you try to pull out your credit card, he passes the man a wad of twenties. Way more than the ride cost with a keep the change as he hustles you out of the car.

“Lead the way, baby,” Rooster croons in your ear, his voice low.

And in that moment, you decide you really like Fleet Week.

Who could resist a man in summer whites? Especially when that man is Bradley Bradshaw! Read Part 2 here!

Thank you for reading!

If you missed Hey, Sailor you can catch it HERE!

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knnichs · 8 months ago

Text

WHAT A STAND UP GUY!

— neuvillette’s ideal way of “making up” to you is going to a corn maze. you’re deathly afraid of mazes. (and spooky things in general.)

c. neuvillette

t. gn!reader, modern setting, horror elements (jumpscares, suspense), mentions of blood, its just a corn maze (he says), wc: balls IM KIDDING… 2.3k

m. @mikashisus @mitsvriii @lowkeyren @https-sourlimes @akutasoda @tragedy-of-commons @/stellaronhvnters

happy stellaween folks, i chose the prompt CORN-MAZE!!! (creator comments at the end)

“I didn’t take you to be a horror fan, Neuvillette.”

There's barely any light in the room at all—save for the eerily placed candles and lanterns—it’s dark, it’s stuffy, and uncomfortably cramped for a lobby. For a corn maze, you’d expect an open area for the registration. Apparently, this one was a little more extra with the planning and design to the point where they made sure there was absolutely no way you could see the maze, which adds to the surprise and spooky factor, you suppose.

“You learn something new everyday,” your partner, the main cause of the ‘death due to corn maze fright’ incident of Stellaween ‘24, looked at you with curiosity.

“Frightened already? We haven't even entered the maze itself yet.”

“I am not frightened,” You said, clenching your jaw. “and—this place… Er, whatever the hell this lobby is supposed to be, is dark and cramped. That's two things you should never mix.”

“Sure. Everything you say must be true, no?” He laughed before moving forward to the glass box.

Even the registration itself was on theme. The glass had several minor cracks, there was one that went all the way from the right side to the end of the left. Fake cobwebs everywhere, an obviously cheap jack-o-lantern with an electric candle inside of it is placed on the middle of the desk, a huge sign on top of the little box that has ‘SIGN UP (don't let it chase you)’ written in a dark red with exactly three handprints on random areas.

The design is cheap, cliche, and too common. It’s something you’d find everywhere—but the sounds playing through the hidden speakers and fog is what enhances the ‘spookiness’ everything has. How nice, even the staff dressed up for the occasion. The employee on the left had face paint similar to a skeleton, and the other was a… Bloody nurse?

You get the tickets, (un)fortunately. The cashier pointed out a rule they had for the maze and that was no other than a ‘strictly no refunds’ policy.

Great. This day has truly been going the way you originally wanted it to.

Two days ago, you texted Neuvillette saying you wanted to go to the theater. There was a specific musical that was showing for a halloween special, you had been interested in watching it for a while now. Of course, Neuvillette being a busy man, you had to first ask if he could go so you wouldn't risk wasting money on an extra ticket. Sadly, he took way too long to reply. He had seen-zoned you for days before finally saying yes, this morning. You didn’t secure the tickets to the show, and it was a limited time thing. You’re not that bummed out about it anyway, he shortly apologized to you in person and said he would make it up to you.

That’s exactly what led you to this situation right now. With a heart rate going up to 98 as you slowly make your way to the entrance of the corn maze. With how many times you’ve tried to convince yourself—you never liked corn mazes. One thing that made you dislike it was a movie showing two characters, a boy and a guy, running around before the boy eventually disappears. The whole point of the movie was showing how fast time flies. Although it wasn't exactly a horror show, it certainly made you fearful that you, too, would disappear if you entered a corn maze.

Many thoughts scatter in your head as the ushers bring you to the gates. The only thing separating you (and Neuvillette) from a self-proclaimed ‘scariest corn maze’ was two hollow pieces of wood with, you guessed it, fake blood all over it.

“Is this your idea of salvaging a relationship with me?” You muttered, genuinely questioning the man beside you. He just nodded—saying ‘It’s really not that bad if you think about it.’ and going on a short-lived rant on how everything is fake.

“Please ensure all your belongings are safely kept in your bags, we are not liable for any damage or lost property.” One of the ushers reminded the two of you, “Once you’re ready, just look towards the camera over there and shout; ‘Stellaween’.”

“What will it be used for?” You wondered, looking at the direction they pointed at.

“Ah, well you signed a waiver that you were allowing the two of you to be recorded, did you not?”

Right, you completely forgot about that. There were cameras that were going to record the ‘jumpscare’ moments. Did you agree to it? You had zoned out during the registration, you don’t remember a single thing. But of course, Neuvillette nodded, saying that you did.

Some god must’ve cursed you with bad luck today.

Not only will you enter, possibly, one of the most nerve-wrecking places you’ve ever been to, you’ll be recorded while doing so. Each reaction, each scream—and if you do die from fright, it will be because of some cliche, overboard, corn maze. Will that be on your mural?

“Come on,” Neuvillette whispers, egging you on. He puts your hand in his, squeezing you a little to give you some motivation. Of course, he would be with you every step of the way. “I’ll keep you safe, my dear.”

You look at him—you would trust this man with your entire life, you think.

“Would you like one of these?” The staff shows you a long, orange bandana. “You can wrap it around your wrists, a lot of recent explorers have done this method to ease some of their worries. It’s safe in there, no need to be scared.”

Neuvillette takes the bandana and thanks the worker. He works fast, tying the piece of cloth between the two of you with ease and skill.

“Let’s go?” He asks, brushing some hair behind your ear and gives you a quick kiss on the forehead to give some encouragement.

To his surprise, you quickly nod your head after three deep breaths.

Similar to the lobby, the maze itself is also dark. And cramped. With tall cornstalk, it's hard to see anything beyond the area you’re in now. It’ll be difficult to cheat your way through this. Neuvillette is still holding your hand as you two take a few turns, you had honestly thought he would let go by now—then you realize you were the one squeezing his hand so hard, as if he would run away from you the second you’d let go.

There are a few lanterns scattered throughout, and some candies to lead the way. You don't dare pick one up though, you wonder how long it's been there or how many people have already stepped on it. Suddenly, a groan can be heard from… Somewhere, in the maze.

“Neuvi, you don’t suppose there are actors in the maze, do you?” You ask, worrying about any possible ‘jumpscares’, as the staff had mentioned before you entered.

“It wasn’t listed in their advertisement post…” He hummed, bringing a hand to his chin as if trying to remember the details. “…No. No—I don’t think there was ever something stating there were any actors, nor anything saying that there wasn’t.”

Shit.

A distant humming, followed by a groan, and a click.

You grab Neuvillettes arm, basically hugging it like a koala would. Looking around, you try to see if there was anything at all—any indications that someone was coming.

Click.

“My dear, I’m with you.” He brings his free hand to rub it soothingly against yours. Warm and comforting. You relax a little, that is until you notice the clicking noise was getting much, much louder. “There’s no need to worry. They aren’t real.”

It didn’t take too long for you to realize that—yes, there are actors in the maze. Yes, there are a bunch of them. All dressed up in different costumes; one a vampire, a ghost, another a werewolf, and a zombie. All have some sort of red in their outfits, smudged fake blood (or is it paint?) across their shirts and faces. It’s so overdone, but seeing it in person makes it absolutely horrifying.

There are about four of them, two are chasing Neuvillette, and the other two are chasing you. You bolted as soon as you noticed them, and the bandana tying you and Neuvillette together had loosened—leaving you with no companion in a dark, cramped, absolutely horrible corn-maze. This had to be your no-good, very-bad day.

Silence fills the air. You managed to mislead the actors to a different part of the maze, and you hid underneath a desk prop, for god's sake. You take your phone out from your bag, trying to contact Neuvillette, except you see the empty bars on the top screen. No signal.

Recounting your series of unfortunate events today:

You didn’t get to watch that halloween-special-limited time show.

Neuvillette’s idea of ‘making it up to you’ is by going to a corn maze.

Tickets are non-refundable, so you’re basically forced to go.

There are actors in the maze. They can run.

You just lost your only companion—and there's no signal.

You can't believe you have to put an ‘and’ in your imaginary list. By the looks of things, you might even expect something else happening right this moment, maybe a few minutes from now, once you crawl out under the desk.

You turn off your phone and turn it back on again, hoping the signal thing was a joke your eyes played on you (it wasn’t.) There’s nothing you can really do right now except think about what exactly pushed you to be confident and fearless before entering the corn maze.

Neuvillette just had to be your partner—he just had to have the most obscure ideas of apologizing. A corn maze, out of everything he could’ve chosen to do to celebrate the spirit of halloween! It wasn’t having a nice, peaceful picnic. Nor was it just carving out ridiculous faces into pumpkins, or watching a simple scary movie—No, it just had to be a corn maze! A first hand experience on becoming the main character in a horror film where they have to escape the crazy murderer with an equally crazy looking hatchet!

God, you needed to take a deep breath to calm your mind. Whatever’s going through your head is making you sound like you were going insane.

“—Come on, I’m right here.” A voice says in the distance. Now that you think about it, it sounds somewhat familiar.

There's a flash of the familiar white, long hair you’ve grown accustomed to. Did the actors chase down Neuvillette, steal his outfit, and his hair? You truly hope that wasn’t the case, that they weren't pretending to be that one person you find comfort in. Well, in this case, the only thing you find comfort in right now.

Either way, this is a do or die situation (not really, you just like exaggerating things.) If you don’t come out of the desk, you doubt that Neuvillette would spot you, even if it's an actor or not. You can always tell them to break out of their role and take you out of the maze safely. So, slowly, you stand up from your hiding spot—risking yourself to be exposed to any actors who may be waiting to ambush you. You close your eyes shut and just pray that Neuvillette will spot you.

“There you are, I’ve been looking everywhere for you.” The voice says, gradually coming closer. Warm arms envelop you in a tight hug, hands rubbing soothingly on your back. Immediate peace and comfort in a moment of fear—truthfully, you would only get this feeling from one specific person in your life. You return the hug, allowing your rapidly beating heart to calm down now that you’re safe.

“Are you okay?” You nod to the question, allowing yourself to just breathe in this moment.

“We can stay like this for as long as you want to, my sweet.”

It takes a bit before you clear your mind.

“That maze was nothing,” you brag—quite confidently too. The two of you had just finished taking a photo in the booth, and are just waiting for the photostrip to get printed. “It was so easy after all. The only thing that made it the least bit scary was the actors.”

“You’re acting as if you didn’t just sob the entire way to the exit whining: ‘Neuvi, I was soo scared. I almost died!’” He crossed his arms, imitating your voice with an overexaggerated high-pitched tone.

You huff, “Whatever! I got chased out by a werewolf and a vampire. That's a deadly combo, I say. Plus, they had like—fake blood all over them, you’d actually think they murdered someone!”

“Sure, I’m sure it was just as frightening as you make it out to be.” Neuvillette had the nerve to laugh at your fears.

Your photo drops from the printer, but you don’t ever recall doing two. As you pick them both up, the first photo was the one you had taken in the booth not too long ago, and as for the second… It was the one where you and Neuvillette realized you were being chased. A QR code on the side saying: ‘VIEW YOUR VIDEO HERE!’

“Yes yes, I can already read your mind. I won’t send it to anyone, don’t worry.” Neuvillette laughed—once more—at the fear in your face.

You don’t have to think about him showing it to others, I mean, he wouldn’t do that. You only need to think about the sheer amount of teasing you will get from this man for an entire week. And next year, when it’s halloween season once more, you doubt that Neuvillette will ever let you forget what exactly happened in this—the (self proclaimed) scariest corn maze of 2024.

creators comments. i know i said id be on break but the network said ‘writing event’ and i rushed to gdocs as soon as i could 😁🫶 requests are still closed however ,,,!!!!! ANYWAY heres a silly little thing ,, neuvillette has been PLAGUING my mind ever since i finished the fontaine quest <3 SO! i actually asked the srvr for their insights on who this should be about (i was torn between tighnari, neuvi, and thoma if i can recall that properly) and most of them said neuvi,, so here we are☺️ i forgot how to write and THATS IT!

#stwf : pumpkin patch!#neuvillette #neuvillette x reader #neuvillette x reader fluff #genshin #genshin impact #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact x reader fluff #neuvillette x gn!reader

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