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f1girliefics · 9 months

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F1 Drivers Christmas Eve with You - Preferences

Max Verstappen/Daniel Ricciardo/Lando Norris/Oscar Piastri/Carlos Sainz/Charles Leclerc/George Russel/Lewis Hamilton/Yuki Tsunoda x Reader

A/N: Decided to include a lot more of the drivers for this special Christmas edition! I hope you all enjoy it!

Max Verstappen

He would turn his romantic side ON.

He has the entire evening planned.

Romantic dinner at a nice restaurant, then you would go to his place to watch movies and exchange gifts.

Max is the kind to spend months prior to any event thinking about what to buy.

He wants to get a meaningful gift for you.

And let's be fair he would be happy with anything. Clothes? Yes. A new watch? Of course. Lego? Hell yeah.

He just wants to spend time with you.

Daniel Ricciardo

As soon as he saw your Christmas get-up he would be smiling. You got for the two of you matching Christmas sweatshirts.

He loved it.

This wouldn't be your first Christmas with Danny. But he would make it special each time.

This year, he planned on staying at his house, watch movies, play some games if you are up for it.

And you were.

Obviously.

It would be a Christmas Eve where your cheeks would start to hurt from all the smiling.

Lando Norris

He would invite you to dinner in one of his favourite restaurants. It had been the same you went to have your first date, so it was a special place in your heart.

He would have a simple beautiful necklace for you with the letter L as a charm on it with a simple gorgeous diamond.

He would say High School Musical inspired him since Gabriella had a T for Troy.

How cheesy, you loved it.

Oscar Piastri

It would be your first Christmas.

So, he would be nervous.

But you invited him over so, he would be EXTRA nervous.

You decorated your entire apartment and even cooked a nice simple meal.

He would praise your cooking as if you were a Michelin-star chef.

After dinner and presents, you two would watch The Grinch while cuddling on the couch with many snacks.

Carlos Sainz

Carlos would ask you to spend Christmas with his family, and who were you to say no?

If you speak Spanish, be prepared to have long conversations.

If not, fear not, his family would have no issue with talking to you, constantly yelling at Carlos to translate.

It would be a very sweet Christmas. And a rather loud one as well.

Charles Leclerc

He would try to impress you by any means.

You are not even surprised that his tree is all red... who could have guessed it?

Charles would buy so many gifts for you, that some wouldn't even fit under the tree.

Shoes, bags, jewellery and even a new phone.

He would ask for nothing in return.

But you would still give him gifts. Maybe not as expensive... okay definitely not as expensive.

He would hire a chef who would cook for you two.

After dinner, you wanted to watch Home Alone and he would shock you by saying he never saw it, so movie night it is.

George Russel

You two came to the decision that this year, you would plan your Christmas Eve. You invited him over to your place, decorated your home and got him many gifts.

Not like he didn't have everything, but you still did.

If you can and agree to cook, he would be happy to eat your meal, if not, he would have no problem with some takeout.

Who knew fast food could look fancy on a plate on a table lit by candles?

His gift to you would be something you might have mentioned at one point. He is the kind of boyfriend to remember and give you exactly what you wish for.

Lewis Hamilton

Lewis would have the entire evening planned.

Of course, it would be at a fancy restaurant. It would be one of your favourites. You two agreed on no gifts because you two buy each other everything during the year anyway. So, a nice date will be enough.

And it really would be.

Yuki Tsunoda

He would cook for you. Yuki decided to put his entire soul on a plate for you. And it is magnificent.

He is a great cook, so you can expect an amazing dinner before you exchange presents.

His present for you would be something super meaningful. Something you had your eyes on for months.

After the presents, you two would be on his couch, cuddling, laughing and having a great time.

Fernando Alonso

He would invite you over to his home, and cook some dinner for you himself.

It would be very special and romantic.

He would make you watch Spanish Christmas classics.

Overall it would be a very romantic and cozy evening.

For a gift, he would give you something he knows you would love. He knows you very well, so he would give you exactly what you want without you having to mention it.

Lance Stroll

Let's be fair he would ask for you to go to his family's house for Christmas.

As for your gift, he would buy you anything you name or don't.

To him, the more it cost, the better the item.

So, he would be shocked when your favourite would be a pair of earrings.

And you would have a great time with his family, but you did learn that his father likes to take Monopoly a little too seriously.

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jaylver · 9 months

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CINDY LOU WHO — P.SH

synopsis: christmas came early with a heartbreak as your present when you found out your boyfriend had fallen out of love with you. the boy that you loved is now in love with someone else, a new girl who managed to make him believe in love the way cindy-lou made grinch believe in christmas.

pairings: non-idol!sunghoon x afab!reader

genre: lovers to exes, break up au, angst

warning(s): underlying hints of cheating/unfaithfulness

wc: 731

a/n: when i said i was planning a depressive december ... i was not lying. hoping everyone is enjoying the festive season! please leave a feedback and reblogs are greatly appreciated! muah xx

Festive season hasn't been feeling the same ever since your boyfriend returned from his trip.

Sunghoon had been off somewhere in the desert with his friends as a getaway before Christmas. At first, you thought it was funny that he was going somewhere with the opposite season compared to where you were now. But the moment you noticed a change in him once he returned home, you figured things weren't about to be the same.

It shouldn’t be this hard to communicate and interact with him, but why was he acting like a stranger to you now? You had to bug him for ages to let him see pictures he took from the trip, that alone was enough to tell you something had shifted in the air. On the couch that night, it was probably only you that was enjoying your time as you swiped through the pictures, many were with his usual guy friends you already knew.

However, there was one that specifically caught your eyes. There in one of his pictures was a girl laughing.

A girl amongst the group, odd wasn’t it? She was sitting closely next to your boyfriend. Repeat, your boyfriend. You couldn’t recognise who she was, nor could you recall meeting her in the past. Sunghoon must’ve noticed you staring too long and pausing on that specific picture, so he tried to explain despite your heart breaking into pieces, saying it was a girl they met on the trip and there was nothing more.

To him, he claimed it was just ‘a girl’, but you knew there was more to that, and you weren’t trying to be a paranoid crazy girlfriend. You couldn’t sleep that night, sitting wide awake in your living room couch, the same exact spot where you had seen the pictures earlier. Was she the reason he’s been acting off around you? Had she casted a spell on him while he was there? Why him?

Maybe he met her somewhere in the desert. He was soul searching and found someone better. Did she make him happy like you couldn’t do? Or even worse, would she be the one with his ring on her finger? There’s red and green everywhere, but God, you were so blue.

“Let’s break up.”

The timing was just perfect. Two weeks before Christmas day, and right before your annual trip back to his family’s house to celebrate Christmas with his family. He was cruel, a little too cruel for breaking your heart at this time. ‘Tis the season, you guess.

Of course he would fall in love with her, you understood that almost at once when you saw her posts on social media. With her hair so long, lips so red, she was a dream anyone would wish to have. She was also the total opposite of you, that was what you noted as you scrolled five years back in her profile. You felt like a joke.

Just thinking about the fact that she’d be doing the exact same thing you did the past five years this festive season has you crumbling inside out. You bet she’d wake up in his old bed at his family’s house, ready to celebrate Christmas, while you sat in your home all alone wondering what went wrong.

The snow’s going to fall and the tree’s going to glisten. Everywhere around you was in a high, happy atmosphere, but you couldn’t seem to feel the same. All you knew was you’d puke at the thought of her kissing the boy who you once loved, the one who was in love with someone else.

Even after breaking the news to all your friends, they said it couldn’t be true, and you thought it was funny, that they were much more in denial than you were. They tried to console you by putting on How the Grinch Stole Christmas, huddling together under a large blanket with snacks on the side, but you could only think of how she reminded you of Cindy-Lou.

Cindy-lou showed the Grinch the real meaning of Christmas just as she had shown Sunghoon true love. Maybe all along he had never wanted to commit to you, and he had found something more in her. You should be happy now that your friends were around, but you were feeling the exact opposite. Everything reminded you of him and her both.

Cindy-lou, who?

☆ permanent taglist (open):

@silentkarnival @strvlveera @freshsaladbowl @bejewelledgirl @fakeuwus @yenqa @hsgwrld @ilovegyuvin @enhacatalog @aishigrey @shinrjj @kgneptun @ilovegyuvin @hyunniesvlog

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dimepdf · 2 years

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★ 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊 𝐔𝐏 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐁𝐎𝐘𝐅𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐃. + 𝐓𝐎𝐉𝐈 𝐅𝐔𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐔𝐑𝐎

masterlist. / taglist. / any request? synopsis. holiday season is near, whats Christmas without a little drama to stir and a new boo for the mistletoe?

─── ☆ notes. i realized that i missed 3 uploads because none of them queued i'm SICK this tumblr update is tearing me apart and y'all didn't even tell me .

─── ☆ length. 1.6K (16 mins) .

─── ☆ genre and warnings. holiday season drama, christmas theme, established relationship, angsty, age gap, asshole boyfriend Gojo, eat the rich, cheating, daddy's money!, sorry gojo girlies, not beta'd put me on the naughty list | — feedback is always welcomed & don't forget to reblog 🤍

You were convinced that along with old age came a sour attitude towards the holidays. Sure, Gojo was twice your age and around the same age as your own father, considering the fact that Gojo was the top-paid employee in your father's company.

When you first started to get comfortable with the fact that you were in a committed relationship with the man, you only wanted him to be your designated booty call.

just someone that you needed to warm up your bed whenever you got a little bored.

He'd slipped through the cracks of your commitment issues, crawling through the shit that you'd put him through just to finally tie you down and agree to the title of his girlfriend.

But the moment that you two started to spend more time together, it was obvious that you two were two different people going through completely different paths in life.

It was a struggle trying to include each other in the daily routines that the both of you had already settled into, one that would always be the strain that ignited the flame for the main topic for the arguments that you two had.

As the month crept to an end and it was your first holiday that you two were spending together, you were starting to notice how much of an absolute grinch your grown-ass boyfriend was.

"I don’t understand why I have to dress like we’re going to a fucking gala." Gojo complained for the fourth time, fidgeting with his dark green tie around his neck. The beep of his Mercedes was heard as he locked it.

You hadn't understood why he was complaining so much. The ivy green of his velvet suit not only fitted against his pale complexion, but it matched perfectly with the dark shade of wine red you wore to fit the Christmas theme.

"Stop being such a brat, I never knew you'd passed up the free opportunity to pass on unnecessarily expensive wine and old people talking about their slot shares and other boring shit." You hissed out into the cold air, hugging your jacket closer to your chest for warmth.

The night was young, the sky a darker purple as the moon rose just above in the sky, and down from the clouds fell small specs of white crystals laying against the ground, leaving a small blanket of white on the streets and anything else that it could mark.

You would have thought it was a scene from a movie if it hadn't been for the hot-headed being erasing all recollections of Christmas joy you had left in your soul.

"Last I checked, that boring shit is the reason you could even afford to wear that godawful set." Your outfit wasn’t awful: nothing about the dazzling diamond necklace that decorated your collarbone or the white crystals that hung from your ears was anything close to being considered ugly.

"I swear it's like you don't even try to look even close to modest." It just wasn't the dress that Gojo had laid out for you to wear.

Another reason that you two were arguing would be his completely unbearable, controlling personality, wanting to dress you up and down as if you were his personal Barbie doll.

"Last I checked, my father pays your bills, honey," you scoffed, ignoring his invitation to hold his arm and stomping forward to the door.

As with the doorman who greeted you by name, your annoyance morphed into a split second of kindness. Not missing the sly smile placed on his lips as he checked you out.

He wasn't bad looking—a tall man with a wide stature and a dark gaze—and if you hadn't had the throne by your side—aka Gojo—you might have given him another look.

It seemed like Gojo didn't miss that look of reconsideration in your eye, ignoring the man's greeting and barreling through the door with a scuff.

"So now you're going to throw a tantrum tonight, how fucking mature of you," he scoffed, grabbing you by the elbow and bringing you to a halt.

You stumbled a bit from the force but were used to Gojo's strength enough to stabilize yourself in your heels.

You didn't bother making the confrontation look anything but aggressive, you hoped that someone would get the completely wrong idea just by looking at you glaring up at him.

Fortunately for Gojo, your father seemed to appear out of thin air, as he looked as graceful and rich as ever.

A man out of a bougie magazine always seemed too dressed to impress.

You were convinced he did it just to remind the other people around him that they could never dream to even make as much money as he would spend in a day.

"Ah, there you are, sweetheart. I was waiting to see when you and Gojo would arrive."

Your father was a stony man, practically always in business mode, ready to give just about anyone that would lend him an ear a nice long ramble about how important it is to stay ahead in life, to never let your self-worth droop, and to especially never let anyone walk all over you, which you found pretty ironic given the type of guy you were dating.

Gojo's expression had changed completely, plastering on that annoying chirper smile as if he wasn't already red in the face and ready to blow up at you.

You two should have gotten Grammy awards for how quickly you could change from the appearance of completely hating each other to looking like the world's star couple as you yanked your elbow from his grasp instead of tucking your arm into his.

"Hope you found the place quite already. If I knew it was bound to snow this much, I would have moved the date back a bit." You detested small talk, even despised it.

No matter the person or situation, you could hide the way your smile twitched, your eyes already scanning for an escape. The last thing you wanted to do at a party was talk about the fucking weather.

"Yeah, it was a pretty long drive with the traffic and all, I’m gonna go find the restrooms to freshen up a bit." The excuse was enough for your father to allow you to part ways, slipping away from the conversation with a small hug before your heels directed you straight to the open bar.

Drinking was a pretty good distraction, especially when you were passed a new glass at the wave of a hand. You had almost felt shame at the side glances the bartender would give you with every shot.

"Boy trouble?" Anyone but the doorman with the alluring eyes and Chester smile was expected to be sitting next to you.

Your eyes instantly flickered to the scar that traced just over his lips. He seemed to get a lot of attention from the scar, his tongue swiping over the front of his smile to his cheek once he had noticed your eyes on his mouth.

You weren't sloppy drunk; if anything, you were a bit tipsy, as your party phase definitely raised your alcohol tolerance. "Sorry, what?" you stuttered a bit over your syllables, lashes fluttering as you genuinely tried to recognize the question he asked.

Toji didn't seem phased at all, only biting back a chuckle as he leaned against the bar counter, rotating his entire position on the stool to face you completely.

An extremely attractive gesture of interest that you had checked off on the list of things that he’s done that you found completely hot.

Another thing was the way his head nodded in the direction of Gojo, yet his eyes still stayed on you as if a split second of looking away would miss some little detail about you. "What do you think they're talking about?"

The question had brought a smile to your face, and you were giggling into your drink as you tipped back the glass. "I bet stocks and boring shit." Your thoughts returned to the earlier argument. "A bunch of stuck-up assholes parading around my dad just for a raise." You sighed.

"I don't blame them, shit might go over there myself if it meant a few months off rent." You felt his hand rest against your thigh, his palm warm to the touch despite standing outside in the snow.

You wondered how he had managed to radiate so much heat from his body, almost like a personal heater, resisting the urge to lean into his chest and nuzzle your face into his chest.

With a glance, you noticed how black seemed to be his color—dark slacks and a button-up shirt that hugged his muscles just the right amount.

Not enough to tear around the seams, but enough to show that he had definitely bought in a bigger size but had gotten shrunken as he got bigger, or maybe he just didn't know how to wash his clothes.

Either way, you weren't complaining much as he seemed to soak up all the attention you gave him. "You're pretty handsy for a guy I just met."

"And you're just pretty." He had seemed to be leaning in more and more, wanting to get as close to you as he possibly could.

Wanting to know how far he could push you before you would pull away, and maybe it was the alcohol talking or the fact that your asshole boyfriend was just a few feet away, glaring at you from across the room, but something inside of you just seemed to erupt.

“Wanna get out of here?”

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#[ ⇢ ˗ˏˋ ★ — t.wrks. ]#toji x reader #jjk x reader #jjk smut #jujutsu kaisen smut #jjk toji #fushiguro toji #toji fushiguro #jujutsu kaisen x reader #jujutsu kaisen #toji fushiguro x reader

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integra1127grimmreaper · 9 months

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Mr. Grinch (Joel Miller)

Joel Miller Masterlist

Warning: swearing, fluff

Summary: A little Christmas story inspired by Lindsey Stirling's version of - You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch.

Mr. Grinch... that was what everyone had nicknamed Joel after just one day in Jackson last year, when he and Ellie had first set foot in the community last winter. Now, one year later, and another winter in yet the nickname still stuck. You found the entire thing to be quite amusing; yes, Joel could be grumpy and sometimes comes off as just plain mean, but there were good, loyal qualities to him, ones that only those dearests to him were witness to. So, that's why to make lightly of the nickname, you had decided to do something fun about it in the annual Christmas eve pageant.

You had come across an old burlesque record sometime back, the beat of the music perfect for what you had planned. Your outfit; a cute red winter dress, green tights and Santa hat.

The pageant was taking place in the mess hall, as the Christmas eve community dinner was to be taking place immediately thereafter. A small stage had been erected in the hall, with tablets setup for all to enjoy the show and dinner after.

The hall rang out with whistles and cheers when you made your way to stage, everyone soon quiets down, and the music begins to play.

You're a mean one, Mr. Grinch You really are a heel You're as cuddly as a cactus As charming as an eel, Mr. Grinch You're a bad banana with a greasy black peel

The room was eerily silent as you comically performed on stage whilst singing; everyone knew exactly where you were going with the chosen song. You on the other hand, were having a field day with it, as people's eyes kept jumping back and forth between you and the table you were clearly trained on during the entire performance.

You're a monster, Mr. Grinch (Mr. Grinch) Your heart's an empty hole Your brain is full of spiders You've got garlic in your soul, Mr. Grinch

You're a vile one, Mr. Grinch (Mr. Grinch) You have termites in your smile You have all the tender sweetness of a seasick crocodile, Mr. Grinch Now given the choice between the two of you I'd take the seasick crocodile Seasick crocodile

"Shit, it's you!" Ellie bawls out in realization, but you continue like nothings amiss. Everyone nervously stares back at the table as she chuckles out loudly then.

"The song is about you, Joel! You're Mr. Grinch!"

"Now, Ellie... don't be looking for trouble where there ain't none" Tommy attempts to neutralize the situation before things got out of hand.

"Nuh-uh..." Ellie retorts with a stiff head shake, hollering out then.

"See! I fuckin' told you! She just winked at him!"

The sounds of gasps ringing out at her words, as everyone braced themselves for your impending demises at the hands of the man you were clearly referring to in the song. He, on the other hand sat dangerously silent, as his dark narrowed gaze remained fixed on you as the performance continues.

"Ellie..." Tommy drawls out in annoyance, and then it happened.

"She blew him a kiss!" Ellie screams, griping onto Joel's shoulder; shaking him back and forth in excitement.

"Wait. What?" an open-mouthed Tommy stares at you on the stage.

The words that best describe you are stink, stank, stunk (Ooh) No, no, no Stink, stank, stunk Oh, Mr. Grinch Mr. Grinch...

The music ends and the room is filled with nothing but awkward silence, Tommy silently eyes Joel; preparing himself to have to stop his brother from strangling you in front of the entire Jackson community. Ellie then jumps out from her seat and starts cheering loudly and you chuckle out, taking a dramatic bow.

"Now, Joel..." Tommy attempts to divert his attention away from you as you step down from the stage.

Everyone sat with bated breath as you made your way toward Joel's table with a cocky smirk plastered on your lips.

"Joel" Tommy warns, jumping up to stop him when he gets up, but Ellie and Maria hold him back.

"What hell are ya two doing?!"

"Wait" Maria remarks as you and Joel meet each other in the centre of the room.

Placing a hand on your hip and cocking your head to the side; you smirk at him whilst striking a pose.

"Hey there, Mr. Grinch..."

Joel's eyes narrow to tight slits as he silently grinds his teeth whilst staring down at you for a second. Silent gasps ring out when he steps closer to you, reaching out to take the Santa hat off your head; Joel plops it onto his own, a broad smirk spreads across his lips as he pulls you flushed against him.

"Hi, Baby..." Joel drawls, tipping down to capture your lips in a deep kiss.

"What the fuck...?!" Tommy voice rings out, along with loudly gasps of surprise.

"Knew they were fucking long before this, FYI..." Ellie remarks smugly, causing both Tommy and Maria to scowl at her disapprovingly.

"What?" she shrugs at them.

"He's always looking at her all-googly-eyed... and she's even worse. Also caught him from my bedroom window; sneaking out of her house and back home in the early hours of the morning when no one's awake."

Joel and you chuckle into each other's mouths at her words, resting your foreheads against one another's with broad smiles.

You had your suspicious of her knowledge, but both had decided to keep your relationship a secret till now. Finally deciding after four months that it was time to make it public, as a matter of fact; it was Joel who had come with the idea of your performance when you had let him in on the town nickname for him.

What the residents didn't know; was that even with only one good ear, Joel had still managed to pick up on the word 'Grinch' being softly uttered whenever he was around. He wasn't too keen on it at first, not till you had told him that you found it to be a cute name for him. That 'How The Grinch Stole Christmas' had been one of your favorite Christmas movies as a child. That in the end Mr. Grinch wasn't as bad as everyone believed him to be just lonely and misunderstood, with a heart of gold hidden underneath all that grumpiness, just as your Joel.

When you playfully performed the Mr. Grinch song for him, Joel found it utterly amusing and that's how you came to be performing it tonight. Proving to everyone that your Mr. Grinch wasn't as bad as everyone believed him to be.

"C'mon Baby..." Joel slings his arm around your shoulder and directing you towards the table.

"Lead the way, Mr. Grinch..." you pat his ass affectionally, causing him to chuckle yet again as the rest of Jackson stared at the two of you weirdly.

#joel miller #joel x reader #joel x you #the last of us #joel tlou #pedro pascal

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sunny-mercya · 1 year

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Frostbites

Edmund Pevensie x Male Reader

Fandom -> Chronicles of Narnia

Masterlist

Edmund was, besides possibly Lucy too perhaps, the only one who knows the reason of why you hated the joyful Christmas and Winter season with a raging passion—so much, that calling you a Grinch would be still a compliment.

It wasn't Christmas itself—you do enjoyed the festive holiday, not in a big gathering to celebrate, only with Edmund and some of his and your family, more than just a bit—it was the sole whole season of 3 (if you count March and Mid-April to it, would be 5 and a half) Months Winter, which you detested and trying to escape from like the plague.

When November starts with its days getting darker sooner, nights longer and the very first blast of cold chilly air blew through the cracks of our home, grazing even the tiniest bit of your skin—you would instantly crumble into a mess. A mess of a frightening state, too wary and paranoid about your own surroundings and yourself.

And when the first snowflakes are tumbling down the sky and onto earth, creating a Winter Wonderland of frost and glistering diamond like sparkling—an agonising cry would leave your mouth.

Crying through the weeks, nights even, till you hit the point of utterly exhaustion—leaving you sluggish and burnt out and a decaying ghostly shell of yourself.

To put it simple; Christmas and Winter was making you depressed. Bringing back a trauma, which you tried so hard to forget, to bury it deep inside of your mind—locking it up as if it would be belong to Pandora's Chests.

Though with every new-coming Winter, the depression and trauma returns, stronger and stronger than ever—hitting you like a whiplash, full force till you're just a whimpering mess—it, no, She haunts you forevermore till death will claim your soul.

~~~

Bitter it was; that on one side, you absolutely hated silence—having the radio on whenever you could at home—on the other side, having to constantly listen to the jazz and swing-full Christmas songs—which are played on loop—is a saddening torture for your mind.

Edmund had you in his arms. Your face buried deep into the crook of his neck as you weeped and sobbed for the third time that day—and it was only around Tea Time now.

Softly and gently, how someone would handle a expensive set of Crystals figurines, does Edmund drove his fingers through your hair—whispering promising sweet nothings to you, in hopes of calming you down (again).

The Christmas tree which stood relatively near the fireplace—but not close enough to be accidentally set on fire or burned—decorated with candles and ornaments, felt for once this year and all of sudden so out of place—in a way unhinged and surreal—that Edmund too, felt a rage building up in him.

If it weren't for her, the damned Witch, you could've enjoyed the season like everyone else with joyful delight.

Snowy Winter was Edmunds favourite season of the year—even though Edmund himself had a bad encounter with the personification, one of them, of the frosty cold season too.

One of his few wishes is to enjoy Winter with you; to walk through the forest and fields, building Snowmen's, taking you ice skating on a thick frozen lake or simply huddle under the blankest in front of the crackling fireplace and enjoying a nice cup of hot coca.

Once the next lovely Christmas song has started to play, you sobbing had gotten even louder, uglier.

~~~

Edmund had carried you back to bed, at one point when your breath had started to get ragged and shortcutting. He tried his best to get you back into a normal breathing pattern, but when you painfully cried out and pushed him away—curling into yourself, like a newborn and if you had been burned badly—Edmund knew he was being too much for now, too overwhelming for you.

Edmund didn't even tried to touch you again, knowing from experience, you would flinch away from such a simple gesture. So he covers you a bit with the add-on blanket, before getting up from the bed and back into the livingroom. Leaving the door just a bit ajar.

Normally Edmund wouldn't, if not nonexistent rarely, drink a glass of Irish Whiskey. You two only had alcoholic beverages, for when Peter, Lizzy or Henry comes over. Occasionally you two would drink some beer here and then, but never wine or the strong kinds and especially not in the mid afternoon.

Though when Edmund had witnessed your ever first mental breakdown—after the adventures years in Narnia and when you two moved in together—he needed something, anything, strong and since Cigarettes weren't his thing, taking a sip—a full blown swing—from the Whiskey bottle once, till he was drunk enough to not remember anything that night—he still talks with the local priest about this—was what helped him through this nerve pulling time. It still does.

Edmund took a deep breath through his nose, closing his eyes, taking another sip from his glass and throwing his head back. Body relaxing ever so slightly.

Edmund knew the reason why you hated Winter and the memory flashes vividly through his mind;

It was back then when they first had gone to Narnia—through a Wardrobe—and Edmund, being the naive bitterly and dumb child he was, had took sides with the White Witch Jadis—the enemy.

At first it had been fine till he realised how cruel and evil this woman, like a true witch indeed, was.

The moment when Edmund had meet you for the very first time, was when Jadis had throwing him into the Ice-Cell as a form of disciplinary punishment.

There you sat in the far corner—in the same cell as him, it probably was your cell to begin with—in nothing but a simple nightgown, curling into a ball in hopes of getting a bit of warmth. Though all you were was a shivering mess. Edmund inched closer to you, frighting you into a yelping—alerting one of the wolves, which sneers at them both, growling out a warning, which you took so scared seriously—that Edmund wonders what they, Jadis, has done to you to make you so frightened.

It took some time and coaxing of Edmund—Lucy told him that kindness and patience is the key, though Peter once said that being straightforward is just as good—to get you to talk to him.

In a hoarsely whisper, so grave and hoarse as if you hadn't spoken in ages and Edmund had to strain his hearing, you told him your name.

[Name] [Surname]. A name so rare and yet so common at the same time and Edmund, he didn't knew why, liked your name—had a nice ring to it, sounded so fitting, so much like you.

«I like your name, I'm Edmund. Let's be friends» thats what he told you, taking your icy cold hands in his own, shaking them.

During his stay in the cell, which could have been just mere hours or days or weeks even, he has chatted you up—telling you about his siblings, how he was being a big dumbass and about Aslan. You hung on every word he said, listen with uttermost attention and excitement.

Edmund, about to give you his extra coat—wanting to give you some warmth, your blue chapped lips was something he couldn't look at—saw a glimpse of grotesque he wished to never have to see—but he will—again.

The scars, shaped like snowflakes and frosting, which covers most of your right arm, had a deep bluish purple colour to it and the row of bitemarks looked freshly made—drops of blood trickling down your wrist and onto the iced floor.

Edmund didn't dared to ask you about this, a too personal question in his option, though it burned on his tongue. He wanted, needed, to know.

«Don't trust her. She's evil.» nothing more you said afterwards, taking his hand and gripping it.

And Edmund promised to himself and you, in a wordless whisper, to get you out of here.

Edmunds lips curled up into a smile, chuckling a bit to himself as he looked at the ceiling above. He had saved you from Jadis—once (and also twice)—and when they all returned back to their world, imagine the surprise he had when he saw you at his new school.

His reminiscing smile, of how you to became best friends and than lovers—close to be married—turned sour, making him take another sip of the Whisky.

When you had told him, one day during a walk through the snowy park—because Edmund asked you out for such activity, even when you told him your dislike towards anything winter related, you still agreed to—about those particular scars you had, a newfound bubbling anger had risen in Edmund.

So Edmund perfectly gets it why you hated Winter. Being held captured and being tortured by Jadis—getting frostbites by her, making you withering in gruesome pain—to abide to her ruling ways—because she saw you as something special too once, though all you were—in the words of Aslan—a Knightly Prince from the stars above, send to protect the Kings and Queens of Narnia.

~~~

After his second glass of Whiskey, which begun to coat his mouth heavily with its sharp vanilla like taste, Edmund decided to call it a day and go to bed. It might be just late afternoon, sun begun to set ever so slowly, but he felt tried.

With slow and steady steps he walked into the bedroom, crawling into the bed next to you. You had significant calmed down, so much that you had fallen asleep. Breathing evenly in and out, a relief to Edmund.

Giving you medication for your hysterical moods, was something Hannah—a good friend and nurse—had suggested more than once. Telling Edmund how it will make you feel better and take off some mental straining weight of him too. Edmund always denied, you didn't need some pills to keep you calm, you had managed throughout the years without them, doing fine.

Edmund takes you in his arms, pulling you close. Kissing your cheek, he closed his eyes, listen to the faintly christmas song—before sleep overtook him too.

Edmund knew why you hated Winter, but he hoped one day you will have a love towards it once more and brining you joy.

#male reader #x male reader #fanfiction #edmund pevensie x male reader #edmund x male reader #edmund pevensie #the chronicles of narnia #narnia #xmalereader #oneshot

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jungle-angel · 9 months

Text

Believe (Miles Miller x Reader)

Summary: Christmas Eve and Christmas Morning with your husband and his family is nothing less than magical

Warnings: Parenthood, mentions of birth etc.

Tagging: @lewmagoo Leah I had "Believe" by Josh Groban for the Christmas/Holiday themed writing and I'm very, very happy and grateful to be able to have done so. I hope you're ok with Benny and Jesse being included in the fic and I do apologize immensely, Dad!Miles Miller has been on the brain alot lately. I hope either way you enjoy this and that you and your family have a very Merry Christmas too. 🥰🥰🥰🥰🎄🎄🎄🎄

Miller Land

Bozeman, Montana

Christmas Eve

Miles carried a very heavily sleeping Benny upstairs, the rest of the nieces and nephews having gone to bed after the nine millionth rerun of The Grinch cartoon and after the grown-ups had all cleaned up the dishes from dinner. Outside it was snowing heavily, but in your home, the white lights from the Christmas tree and all the decorations, the crackling and snapping of the logs in the fire and the lingering smell of the prime rib roast having slow cooked in the oven, made it all worthwhile and cozier than it ever had been.

"Dada?" Benny chirped, waking suddenly.

"Go back to sleep Benny bear," Miles hushed, patting the two year old's back.

Miles carefully placed him in his bed and tucked Benny in under the wool blankets and the duvet that made it more like a weighted blanket than anything else. He tucked Benny's puppy in beside him before heading down the hall to your shared room where you were tucking Baby Jesse in for the night.

"There we go lovebug," you cooed, covering him with the checked flannel Christmas blanket. You tucked in his little teddy bear beside him before carefully putting his little blue knit cap on his head. He was so little and precious, only two weeks old, but so sweet and quiet, barely ever fussing unless he was hungry.

"Merry Christmas Jesse," Miles murmured, pressing a soft kiss to his little cheek and gently scratching his belly.

You and Miles turned out the lights and climbed into bed, the both of you warm and a little worn out from the evening's events. All of your family and friends had descended en-masse to the ranch and dinner had been no less than eventful. A group of St. Lucia carolers had come from town, all in red and white with the candle wreaths around their heads, singing and bringing baskets of Lusskatter, the sweet cinnamon rolls that the owner of your favorite general store made in her cafe every year. You, Miles and the rest of the family had been no less generous, sending them on their way with fresh loaves of bread, soft and cakey gingerbread cookies and little cannisters of hot mulled drinks to keep out the frigid Montana winter.

"You have a good night handsome?" you whispered, gently caressing his face.

"Hmmmm, wish it didn't have to be once a year," Miles mumbled.

You had wished it many times yourself. Those army years had been tough despite Miles being able to get leave every year at Christmas. Yet despite the hardship, you had gotten through it. It was a long, hard slug, but with the loving support of his parents and each other, you both got through it and had come out better than most others would have, believing in each other to the fullest.

You wanted to cry when you saw the sleepy, loving smile on your husband's face. It stirred something so wishful and so dreamlike in your soul that it could have only come about this time of year. "I love you my sweet," he purred, gently kissing your lips.

"I love you too Miles," you whispered as he pulled you in closer.

"Better get some sleep," he yawned. "Benny will probably be up at the crack of ass and will wanna pounce on us as soon as he sees what's under the tree."

You laughed a little, not minding in the least. Your boys were your boys no matter what. Let them enjoy Christmas.....you two had always said.

***********************

You and Miles were so deep in sleep, you didn't even notice two-year old Benny waking up and waddling his way to the stairs, peeking through the rails and gasping at the sight of all the gifts piled under the tree.

"Mommy! Daddy!!" he chirped. "Mommy! Daddy!!! Wake up! Wake up!! Santa came!"

Miles let out an obscene groan as Benny pounced on him, rolling between the two of you as you awoke, a little groggy from sleep, but happy nonetheless.

"Go get Mimi and Papa, Benny," Miles told him.

Benny jumped right off the bed and waddle-ran right down the hall to wake Otis and Kathy. But he didn't just wake Miles's parents. Benny, in his fervor, had begun waking all the aunts, uncles, cousins and anybody else who just so happened to be in the Miller household. Miles stumbled out of bed before you, sticking his feet in his warm slippers and throwing his dark blue robe on over his pale blue button-down pjs before handing you your silk one to throw over your nightgown. You gathered up Jesse and followed your husband into the hall before you were met by his mother and father.

"Boy, I hate to tell you this" Otis chuckled, running a hand through his dark blond hair that had now gone completely grey. "But your son's an EF-5 tornado in a kid's body."

"Oh ha-ha, very funny dad," Miles said with a sarcastic chuckle. "But didn't you at one point say the same thing about me?"

"Touche," Otis laughed. "You were after all, Benny's age when you dove into your gram's rosebush and came out with a pet skunk."

"And the feral cat we tamed," Miles laughed.

It wasn't long at all before all of the nieces and nephews and children from family friends all came rushing downstairs in their pjs. The excitement in the air was infectious, even as Kathy and Otis's little sisters went to go and put the egg casserole and the cinnamon rolls in the oven for breakfast while the coffee maker in the kitchen brewed away.

Everyone dove right into their gifts, taking picture after picture to capture the memories that were unfolding in the living room. Benny was so excited when he had gotten two pairs of mittens from you and Kathy, both knitted with all the love in the world you could possibly give.

"Papa lookit!" Benny proudly declared, showing Otis his new mittens. "I have gubs!"

Otis and Miles both busted out laughing and so didn't the others. You and Miles were so happy to see Benny and his cousins all playing with their new toys or reading their new books that you hadn't noticed a smaller gift on the dining room table.

Miles's aunt, Sarah, took Jesse off your hands for just a little while so the two of you could see what it was and who had left it. It was a little silver box wrapped with a red silk ribbon, sitting right next to the plate that had held the gingerbread cookies Benny had left for Santa. Oddly enough, nobody in the house had even touched the milk and cookies that had been left, or the bag of oats that Benny had left as well. But now the plate and glass were empty and the bag of oats gone as well.

"You didn't......?"

You shook your head.

"Dad, did you....?"

"I didn't touch any of it," Otis said. "I was way too full from dinner to even think about it."

Miles's eyes turned to the note underneath the cookie plate. He unfolded it, revealing the neat, swirling handwriting within.

Miles,

I gave this to your father when he was in the hospital after Guadalcanal and a few to the soldiers who were his roommates there. It took alot of fixing by some friends of ours and even the Missus. But it deserves to come back to your family. I'll see all of you again next year, take care and a very Merry Christmas to your family.

Sincerely, Mr. and Mrs. C

Miles opened up the little box and saw a little silver bell with a red ribbon tied around it. It looked like an old sleigh bell, one that would have been on the reins of the horses in France or Germany. Miles shook it a little and to his amazement, he could hear it ringing.

"You hear that too, right (y/n)?" he asked, his eyes wide with amazement.

You listened but it took you a minute to be able to hear it and Otis too. Even Kathy could hear it and for Benny it was the clearest. Yet when others listened, none of them could hear it except for the children.

You and Miles exchanged secretive but happy smiles, knowing that you two, your children and Miles's parents were the ones who could hear it. You hung the little bell right on the tree before Kathy called everyone in for breakfast while you and Miles couldn't stop looking at the little bell, noticing one little word etched into the silver in that perfect cursive that matched the letter........BELIEVE.

#miles miller #miles miller x reader #bad times at the el royale #a lewmagoo christmas

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mainstream-deviant · 9 months

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Secret Santa 2023!

Hello hello -

Well, it's the 11th hour on xmas eve (possibly literally, depending on your time zone), but I'm here, very technically on time! :P

My giftee for the @super-secret-conspiracy secret santa event was @kitsunefaux, who gave me a pretty wide-open request for Ryou and/or Bakura by preference, with a few shipping options. Tendershipping was first on that list, so here we are. I hope you enjoy me subjecting poor sweet Bakura to the joy of winter weather for your amusement. ;)

Fic Rating: G (or I guess T if a couple of F bombs count)

Fic is below, or on A03 here

-------------------------

“Come on!”

“No.” There was a pause. “Oh, fuck right off with the pouting.”

“Is it working, though?”

“...No.”

“Pleeeeeeaaaaase? It’s so nice out!”

“Not it’s not, it’s fucking cold.” Another pause. A judgemental look down. “That’s the only reason you even got me into this monstrosity. It ends there.”

“Except it doesn’t. People need to see!”

“Lies.” A pause, then a deep, soul weary sigh.

“I’ll get your scarf!” A beaming smile.

“....I hate you so much.”

----------

Even though Halloween was clearly the superior holiday, Ryou always appreciated a nice fresh snow right before the winter holidays. And he was rapidly discovering that it was all twice as entertaining when you have a boyfriend with no concept at all of winter to lovingly torture with it all.

He still couldn’t quite believe he’d managed to convince Bakura into coordinating ugly christmas sweaters for the day. It was good to know just how far Bakura was willing to go in the quest for winter warmth; that would probably come in handy someday. But for now, he‘d take his small victory. Here they were, all bundled up – Bakura in a scarf and a hat and mittens, goodness it was only barely below freezing, what were they going to do when it got properly cold – and out to enjoy the lovely winter’s day.

Despite his earlier grumbling, Ryou could tell that Bakura was enjoying himself. Bakura’s gaze was darting around, eyes suspiciously wide and sparkly for a man who was supposed to be annoyed. A thick fog had rolled through the day before, leaving a thick layer of hoarfrost clinging to every available surface in its wake. The frost glittered now against the bright blue sky, turning the world to crystal. Ryou tucked his hands around Bakura’s arm and leaned into his side.

“See, it’s not so bad, is it? It’s beautiful out here.”

“I admit nothing.” Bakura glanced over at Ryou with what was probably supposed to be a stern look, but he didn’t quite manage to hide a tiny grin.

Ryou couldn’t help but roll his eyes a bit at that, though he gamely tried to hide it. “Of course you don’t.” He smiled. “Fine then. Just enjoy the scenery, you grouch. I should have found you a grinch sweater to match the sparkling holiday cheer.”

“A tribute to the best thief of the holidays? I’d take it.” Bakura made no effort at all to hide his smirk this time.

Ryou now rolled his eyes quite a lot, and enjoyed Bakura’s laugher at his side. They fell into silence as they walked down the path together, just enjoying the fresh winter air and sparkling frost for a while. Suddenly, Ryou tugged on Bakura’s arm.

“Oh, look!” He pointed up the path. “It looks like someone’s been flooding a little ice patch. Let’s go slide around a bit!”

Bakura went stiff beside him. “Not a chance.”

“Oh, but it’ll be fun.”

“Nope.” Bakura planted his feet. “It’s bad enough walking in snow, there’s no way you’re getting me sliding around like an idiot. You’re on your own.”

“Even if moving around a bit more would help you stay warm?”

Bakura squeezed his arm to his side, tugging Ryou’s hands more firmly into his side in the process, and smiled. “You’re doing a good enough job of that already, thanks.”

“I see.” Ryou gave Bakura’s arm a squeeze and considered his options for a moment before smiling up at Bakura with an exaggeratedly angelic look.

“Well, I’m glad to be of service and all, but your heater needs a break.” Fast as a viper, he snatched the hat off of Bakura’s head and bolted towards the ice, gliding smoothly across it to hop into the snow on the other side. “Your precious warmth is right here whenever you’d like it.”

“What the fuck!”

Ryou burst out laughing. Bakura looked so deeply offended.

“Come and get it!” Ryou grinned and shook the hat as though trying to tempt a bull. “Surely the greatest thief of the last few millennia can steal back a hat? All that’s in the way is a teeny tiny patch of i-” The next words were cut off by a burst of hysterical laugher. “What was that?!”

Bakura looked up from the ground, where he’d splayed himself out the moment he set foot on the ice. “Shut your f-AH!”

Ryou had to bend right over he was laughing so hard. Bakura kept trying to get to his feet, but he couldn’t seem to manage more than half a second of traction before ending right back on the ground in a heap of awkward limbs. Eventually, he lay still on the ice, despondently spread-eagle, and turned pleading eyes on Ryou. That was about as close to a plea for help as he was ever likely to give, and Ryou managed to calm himself down enough to take pity on the poor man.

“Ok, ok, let me show you how it’s don- eep!”

Ryou blinked up at the sky, which was suddenly straight ahead. He lay on the ground for a few seconds of stunned silence before turning his head to look at Bakura, who was lying still next to him, stunned expression on his face. They stared at each other for a moment, before bursting into laughter again.

“It serves you right! Justice!” Bakura punched a fist at the sky, but wisely didn’t try to get up again.

“Yes yes, me and my big mouth.” Ryou reached over to stuff the hat back on Bakura’s head. “I think that’s our sign to head home and warm up.”

“About time. Let’s get the hell out of here.”

Ryou shimmied awkwardly off the ice, dragging Bakura along in his wake as best as he could. It wasn’t graceful, but they got there. They always did.

----------

Ryou returned to the couch with hot chocolates in hand, and gratefully sank into Bakura’s side when he held the blanket open for him.

“Here. Chocolate mint for me, and a dash of chili pepper for you. Only the best. Better?”

“Yeah. Better.” Bakura shifted to help Ryou settle in, and pressed a kiss to his temple. “Remember this the next time you think it’s a good idea to go outside and freeze our asses off. We can skip straight to the good stuff next time.”

“Oh, but you had a fun. I saw how you were staring at all the frost. Wasn’t it beautiful?”

“And cold.”

“Well yes, that’s how frost works.” Ryou took a sip of his drink with a happy sigh. “But it was a good day.” Ryou smiled up at Bakura, warm and content.

“Yeah. A good day.” Bakura leaned his head over Ryou’s, and they let the warmth sink in.

#conspireshipping secret santa #conspireshipping secret santa 2023 #mainy writes #fanfiction #ryou bakura #yami bakura #tendershipping #happy holidays everyone <3

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betterthanyalls · 10 months

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Abel The Rebel Angel x Reader

"It's only November!"

Day 2! I hope you like this one, I tried to add romance but not too much at the same time yk? Enjoy!💕💕

Published: 12-3-2023

Words: 543

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Y/n was walking through a mall in her home city. She wasn’t shopping for anything in particular, just browsing through the sections.

It was only November 5th, and the whole mall was decorated for Christmas.

After walking for a bit, Y/n stopped in a local family owned store. It was decked out with festive decor. Ornaments glistened from the front windows, and Christmas music sang from the speakers.

As she was looking around, she didn’t notice a toon walking towards her, busy looking at his phone. When Y/n looked up, it was too late; the human and the toon bumped into each other, causing them both to take a few steps back.

“I am so sorry! I didn’t mean to bump into you!” Y/n panicked, trying to make sure the toon was alright.

“First it’s Christmas in November; now I get hit by some daydreaming idiot.” She heard him grumble as he steadied himself.

Y/n leaned back, giving him an offended look.

"Well, excuse me, Mr. Grinch!” Y/n glared at him with a sassy tone.

Abel looked at her and into her eyes, staring into her soul with his pie cut eyes. Unexpectedly to Y/n, he let out a small chuckle.

She didn’t notice it before, but she did now; the toon had major wings on his back. His head had a tilted halo hanging above it, and he was in a nice suit. The toon's hair was well kept as well. All in all, he seemed to care for his appearance, and she wouldn’t lie if she had to admit that he was pretty attractive. But that doesn’t automatically mean she’s head over heels—no, not at all.

“What?” Y/n frowned.

“You have weird insults.” The toon smiled.

“Well ok then, why not tell me some of your ‘oh so great’ insults?” Y/n mocked, putting her hands on her hips.

“First off, don’t call someone a Grinch-” The toon began before being cut off by Y/n.

“It’s true though! You were acting like The Grinch.” She states matter-of-factly.

He just deadpanned.

The two of them talked for a long time, sometimes bantering or playfully arguing. They eventually learned each other's names.

~~Time skip~~

It had been a year since the two met, and now they’re inseparable.

Currently, the two were simply lounging around on Y/n’s couch. Y/n was lying down, her legs laying on top of Abel’s lap. Abel was sitting up, scrolling through channels on Y/n’s TV.

He tried to ignore how pretty she looked right now; they were just friends after all. Nothing more.

As Abel scrolled through the channels, he stopped on an interesting one. It was going on about how electric cars are made.

“We’ll be right back after this short break.” The channel spoke. As the screen of the TV faded to black, it was replaced with blaring Mariah Carey and red and green lights.

“It is November! Why are there Christmas commercials out?!" Abel shouted at the TV.

Y/n couldn’t help but burst out laughing at his anger.

He looked over to her, a smirk flashed over his features. Shoving her off of him and the couch, Abel couldn’t help but laugh too.

#x reader #fluff #christmas fluff #Abel The Rebel Angel #Abel The Rebel Angel x Reader

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bearbluebooks · 10 months

Text

Chapter 7 Christmas in Velaris

When 29 year old Gwyn moves back to Velaris, her new neighbor turns out to be less new than she first expected. With a new bookstore and old debts, Gwyn finds herself in a world of trouble. Do Christmas miracles exist or do they only happen in books and movies? What role does the Grinch tech genius play in this?

Read Chapter 1 here, or Chapter 7 here

17:45

To become rich was never an aspiration that fueled her soul, as long as she had a roof over her head and happiness in her heart.

For Gwyn, materialism was never about possession. It was about the appreciation of the big things and the small moments. Whenever Gwyn bought something it had meaning, function, or need. That’s why everything she owned fit in her car. One of the boxes contained the many ornaments that she carefully placed in her Christmas tree two nights ago- the knitted star her mother made her when she was nine, and the mini Catrin and Gwyn puppets they crafted together in kindergarten.

Lucky for her, because her bank account alone would not make her happy. When she dared to look at her balance this morning, the number she expected to see was wrong.

So wrong.

It was a tough realization, once again, that idealism only got you so far until it met reality.

Bills had wrecked the small savings she amassed over the years. So much so that she didn’t have any reserves to fall back on. And that scared her, to live in constant worry of the unexpected.

After seeing her balance, she knew to expect trouble sooner or later- a broken down car, a heating bill, or another collapsed roof. The possibilities alone gave her anxiety.

On top of that, she was a new business owner with no business to profit from. She had to be inventive. And quick.

So very quick.

Otherwise, it would have all been for nothing.

Even if she won the Christmas competition, she still needed to gather 10.000 dollars more.

Luckily, Azriel seemed more inclined to join forces after yesterday. He even seemed to have fun at the Christmas farm.

Miracles were still possible, she thought with a smile. She hoped it extended to her financial stability- which definitely needed a miracle.

She decided to give herself the weekend to come up with a plan.

Tonight, she would go out and forget her worries. She deserved that. To be with her old friends, and to make new memories. To forget all troubles, and maybe get into some new ones.

Who was she kidding? Even with alcohol, she needed control over her body and the situation.

A message popped on her phone, it took her out of her ruminating thoughts immediately. It was the guy from two nights ago, Troy.

Troy: Hi Gwyn, Troy here, the Christmas Guy, how’s the tree treating you? Not giving you any trouble?😉

Gwyn: Hi Troy. Not anymore ☺️ If he does I know who to contact to kick his ass.

Troy: You know it. Happy to help.

Troy: Speaking of help, would you like to help me finish dinner this Saturday night?

Gwyn: …

She didn’t know what to reply. Her heart beat faster, and many reasons flashed inside her mind as to why she should say no. She forced her mind to find reasons to say yes- he was handsome, he had the physic of someone who grew up on protein shakes and mountain exercise. And he seemed kind.

The idea of a date terrified her to her core.

Ever since her mum and Catrin died eleven years ago, she had a hard time opening up. To trust the world and the people in it. Ever since she experienced the worst, it became impossible to trust the good existed too. Life was unpredictable, and people were unreliable. The only thing you had control over was yourself.

The safety of her home became a cage of her own making. She had reasons to crave that cage, but there was also an internal wall that she built between her and the outside world. A wall that became thicker with every year that she stayed inside that cage.

Nothing happened to her there- nothing bad, but also not a lot of good.

She had Mouse, and jobs here and there, but she craved friendship, experiences, love, and life.

When she stepped into her car one week ago, it was out of a desperate attempt to shatter that wall. Gwyn knew that after so many years of building that wall up, only a jackhammer could get it down. And nobody would do it for her, she would have to be that jackhammer.

Growth happens outside your comfort zone, she reminded herself as she stepped into her car with shaking legs. A deceitful string connected to safety grew taut the further she drove. It urged her to get back to her cage, back to the safety of the known.

Instead, she focused on her heart, where the wish for happiness resided, and on the whisper of strength that beckoned her to trust her ability to handle the unknown.

Before she knew it, that string became weaker and weaker, until only resolve remained and she had the keys to her new future in her hands.

Maybe this was another possibility. A chance to break down her other walls. So she listened to that same inner whisper and replied.

Gwyn: sure. I’m good at eating.

As soon as she replied, she threw her phone and source of fear as far away as she could, in hopes of the feeling following the object in motion.

It didn’t, it stayed right there in her gut.

She didn’t have time to ruminate on the feeling for too long. Nesta would be here in fifteen minutes.

And she still needed to pick out an outfit. Mouse sat on the bed and she could swear she saw judgment in her eyes when she wore the purple sequin dress. Quickly Gwyn changed into an old dress from Lilly. The long satin green dress had an intricate light brown pattern that spread across the bust and the skirt. The small straps were adjustable and allowed her to fit the dress perfectly to her body. Nobody looked at shoes on nights out, and she only brought two pairs so her all-stars had to do. With quick hands, she braided her hip-length hair. When she looked in the mirror, she was quite proud of herself. She usually avoided make-up, but tonight she wore brown eyeliner and dark red lipstick. The dress complimented her overall look perfectly, and she felt good. She felt beautiful.

A glance at her phone showed the time: 6 pm. Normally Nesta was always on time.

A knock on her door proved her right.

With one quick grab of her coat and one final kiss on Mouse's head, she made her way downstairs.

Before she opened the door, she left the lock on the door to ask “Nesta?”

Safety was still important. It was all about balance, she reminded herself.

“The one and only,” the voice answered. With a smile on her face, Gwyn opened the door fully.

Before she knew it, she enveloped her friend in a hug. Neither of them let go immediately. It felt as if they both craved the comfort of each other's arms and nostalgia mixed with opportunity took over.

When they both let go after some time, Nesta whistled as she said “Gwynnie, you look hot.”

“So do you!” Gwyn replied enthusiastically. Nesta looked beautiful in her short beige dress. The long brown boots had such high heels that they made her just as tall as Gwyn. The faux leather jacket finished the look into something stylish yet sophisticated.

“Let’s meet Emerie, she is already at Rita’s.”

“She’s bringing Mor, you remember her right?”

Mor was the gorgeous blonde who was in the same year as Cassian, Nesta’s boyfriend, Rhysand, and Azriel. Together, they were known as the ‘inner circle’, or the most popular people in school.

“I do, I can’t wait to see them again.”

“Let’s go then,” she said as Nesta already dragged her by her elbow towards the bar.

—--

21:21

The evening was still young, unlike the memories they shared at the back of the dimly lit bar. “Remember when Miss Gold made you write your name 1000 times because you forgot which line you had to read?” Emerie reminisced.

Nesta joined “Or when we all had to be in detention because we wouldn’t say who pulled the fire alarm to get out of gym class?” The memory made her laugh.

The feeling of her past becoming intertwined with her present made her body warm with happiness. The feeling surprised her, it had been a long time since she felt that way.

“Are you back for good?” Emerie asked as soon as they found their familiar footing. The question woke her up from the warm haze of nostalgia. Planting her firmly in the present trenches of reality.

It was bound to come sooner or later. The need for an explanation- why she abandoned them all those years ago. Without a warning, without a goodbye, and without any further contact. But not tonight, she wasn’t ready. And she wasn’t having that conversation in Rita’s. Tonight one word was all she could give, “Yes.”

“Good,” Nesta replied solemnly.

With a smile, she looked at her surroundings and let her senses become overtaken by life. By the bustling sounds of the music. The slight sting of gin mixed with the sweetness of the tonic. The changing lights illuminated dancing faces in short intervals. The smell of sweat mixed with perfume and alcohol.

Then she took in the sight in front of her. Mor sitting next to Emerie, who held a possessive hand on her knee. It looked like they had been a couple for years, but apparently, it had only been three months, when Emerie finally gathered the courage to ask the blonde femme fatale out on a date. The rest was history.

Nesta sat on Gwyn’s right, close enough to whisper things about the people on the dancefloor in her ear, “Look there’s Lola, she’s married with two kids, whenever she needs a break, she comes here.”

Mor had secured them a VIP table in a secluded area with a separate table and bottle service, it provided a perfect view of the dancefloor. Gwyn had never experienced such luxury going out. When she was old enough to drink, one friend had taken her to a shady bar in town, she got so drunk she forgot half of the night. It terrified her to her core that she had no memories of such a big chunk of time. She spent weeks trying to remember, to no avail. She promised herself she would never put herself in that position ever again.

Tonight was no different. No matter how much free alcohol came her way, or the luxury setting, she would not have more than three drinks.

As the communications officer at Black Inc. Mor had ‘connections’ that reached far beyond the ‘depressing building’, as she called it.

“Thank you for your battle against the Grinch, it’s a tough but noble fight,” she said into her ear. Although the area was removed from the dancing crowd, the music was still loud in her ears.

“I pinched myself when I saw the Christmas tree in the lobby. It’s still undecorated but baby steps,” she said with a shrug.

With a smile, Gwyn said, “It can’t be that bad.”

“Oh girl, you have no idea,” Mor replied with a scoff. “Last year he wrote a program that flagged everything that had to do with Christmas. Even the word ‘balls’ was off limits.”

“What happened if you used it?” Gwyn dared to ask.

“Don’t ask,” Emerie interrupted.

Gwyn would definitely ask Azriel the next time she saw him.

Which was much sooner than she thought, when she spotted two imposing figures entering Rita’s.

With shocked eyes she looked at Nesta “I didn’t know Azriel was coming tonight?”

With a shrug, Nesta said, “He rarely joins, but when we said you were coming he suddenly had a clear schedule.”

Fine. This would be fine. They were on good terms, at least she thought so. They picked out a Christmas tree after all. Why did this feel different? More intimate?

Her hands started to sweat and her heart beat out of her chest.

He spotted her in an instant as if he could feel her presence before he saw her. His intense stare never left hers, until Cassian and Azriel reached their table.

He looked devastatingly handsome in his black pants and black dress shirt. Part of his sleeves were rolled up to reveal black tattoos. When he came closer, she noticed his unbuttoned shirt, which revealed even more tattoos and a trail of obsidian hair. The sight was almost obscene, and suddenly warmth spread through Gwyn’s body for different reasons.

“Hello ladies,” Cassian said in a bouldering tone that could be heard over the loud music. “Hello sweetheart,” Cassian said as he kissed Nesta.

Azriel remained silent as he took up the space to Mor’s left, opposite of Gwyn. Instead of a greeting, he ordered two whiskeys from the server.

Cassian sat on Nesta’s other side, rubbing loving circles on her lower back as he asked in such a way that made her feel like no time had passed at all, “Gwyn, how long has it been? It’s nice to see you again.”

When Gwyn and Azriel dated, Cassian became one of Gwyn’s friends too. Nesta was her best friend, and Cassian was Azriel’s, there were natural confines to their relationship that needed them to be friendly. His kind heart, caring nature, and shared love for music made it extremely easy to the point where she considered him one of her closest friends too. With that old connection in mind, she answered honestly, “Too long.”

“Enough talking, let’s dance,” Mor said as she dragged Emerie to the dancefloor. Before Emerie allowed herself to be swept away, she downed her glass of red wine at impressive speed.

“Let’s show them what real dancing looks like,” Nesta said as she guided Cassian to the center of the dancefloor.

Suddenly, Azriel, Gwyn, and four empty chairs were the only ones left.

Tension replaced the earlier easiness, and their silence only added to it.

“How are your muscles?” he asked suddenly breaking the silence.

Her entire body was aching, she could hardly walk and even lifting her gin tonic hurt- none of which she would ever admit. Instead, she said without looking into his devastating hazel eyes, “Fine, thank you. How are yours?”

Without saying anything, he left his seat across from her to take up Nesta’s former seat- right next to her. The closeness revealed his intoxicating cedar smell. The fragrance entered her nose and overtook all of her senses.

“What do you think about Rita’s?” he asked into her ear. The baritone voice sent shivers down her back.

“I like it,” she answered honestly as she wished he would ask her something else just so she could hear his voice again.

Instead, she blurted out, “Is it true you banned the word ‘balls’ in your office?” at a speed that made her wish there was a better filter between her mind and her mouth.

Azriel almost spat out his whiskey, and she couldn’t blame him, “What?” he asked with a red face that came from nearly suffocating.

“I heard you build some kind of Grinch program?” she asked, unwilling to change the subject. It was better to commit than to drop it, she decided.

He closed his eyes for two seconds to gather strength as he continued “Black Inc. is a place of business, Christmas has no place in it.”

“You are a Grinch,” she teased with a slap on his muscular arms, “What’s the harm in a little Christmas joy?” She dared to ask. “If it makes your employees happy, isn’t that good for business?”

His eyes looked hurt, not mad, which was strange especially when he didn’t respond further.

Instead, he asked, “Would you like to dance?”

Playful banter was one thing, physical closeness was another. It was one of the walls she had carefully built. And it felt like he was standing there hammering away at her defenses. But something inside her screamed to let him.

So she did.

“Okay,” she said as he guided them towards the dancefloor. His enormous hand encompassed hers in a protective grasp that ensured nobody was able to separate them until they reached their destination.

His imposing presence caused people to naturally make way for them until they reached a spot in the back of the dancefloor.

It had been a while since Gwyn danced outside of the safety of her bedroom. She suddenly felt very self-conscious of every movement her body made- the way her hips swayed, and her inability to come up with anything to do with her hands.

Azriel seemed to be in tune with her worries, as he moved closer and placed his hands on her hips. In swaying motions, he guided her to the rhythm of the music.

At first, her body tensed under the sudden touch before she felt the scars of his hands on the naked skin of her body and she was somehow transported back to when they were both young. To when he would pick her up in his old jeep, to take her to Rhysand’s house where secret parties were held every other week. How he would lead them to a secluded spot, where they would get lost in each other’s touch.

Her entire body relaxed into the safety of old trust and older memories.

Love in This Club boomed in the background and it felt oddly fitting.

“Is this okay?” He said into her ear, as he held her in his arms.

“Yes.” She assured him with a smile as she moved her hands to embrace his neck.

Song after song followed, and the whole world faded away. Together they swayed to the rhythm of the music and the beating of their hearts.

At a certain point, Azriel moved behind Gwyn, his hands never leaving her waist.

“You’re like a dream, Gwyn,” he said as he leaned down.

The compliment from his lips made her even more aware of his effect on her- on the heat that spread throughout her body. All she could focus on was all the points where their bodies connected which were suddenly on fire. Instead of answering with a compliment, she allowed her body to melt into his, like two puzzle pieces lost to time and space. She let her head fall into his muscular chest which allowed them to move as one. With closed eyes, she savored the moment. His strong body behind her felt like a protective cocoon of pleasant touch and a promise of safety. Without thinking, she let out a breath of pure contentment.

Until her phone buzzed in her pocket.

Then it buzzed again.

When she looked at the screen it was Troy. Her heart dropped into her stomach. Dread spread through her body as she read the words.

Troy: It’s a date.

Troy: I’ll pick you up at eight.

Azriel seemed to have looked at her phone on instinct. Shit.

“It’s not what you-“

She couldn’t see the hurt in his eyes, but she could hear it in his voice as he said “This was a mistake.”

Before she could explain he already moved out of the bubble they created and the the whole world crashed around her. Lights flashed in her eyes. People crowded around her. The music boomed in her ears. And suddenly, she was alone again.

She couldn’t help but think it was for the best. Azriel deserved someone better. Someone who wasn’t broken.

She wasn’t a dream. It was a dream. To think she could ever be with Azriel again. The past was the past, and she was a fool to think otherwise. She forced herself not to cry as she said goodbye to Nesta, Cassian, Emerie, and Mor.

As soon as she left Rita’s, a silent waterfall of tears ran down her cold face. The stinging sensation accompanied her all the way home. Back to where she belonged. Where it was safe.

#gwyn berdara #gwynriel #gwyn x azriel #acotar fanfiction #gwyn acosf #gwyneth berdara #acotar #acotar alternate universe #ao3 fanfic #azriel shadowsinger #a court of silver flames

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bigsoftmarshmallow · 2 months

Note

Heyo! Sorry, I got DEEP into looking up stuff about metallurgy well into the wee hours yesterday. So, by the time I stopped, it was way late. 😅

But anyway, if you're willing & if this isn't too super, like, bad or anything. This is sort of an edit of the Weaponsmistress examining ask. But specifically, one for Demise.

In all honesty, I actually don't tend to care much for Demise as part of my hcs beyond as part of lore (because all my stuff takes place after he was killed). I mean, I've endeavored to give him a backstory that showcases him as a dynamic figure that isn’t just evil by default.

However, due to your inclusion of him for the weapon examination ask, I shall give him a more… personal touch… *grinch grin*

This would need to be from before he was sealed. Otherwise, it wouldn't work. See, in my hc, ELady possesses the same fundamental soul as someone that he'd cared about at one point. This individual was still alive during that time, so this is who ELady will appear as.

Name, Karina. A protector goddess with four arms. Meaning that, much like how ELady herself is unafraid of the Dorfs, Karina is unafraid of Demise & has even put him on his ass once for twice after him making… Advances… (They also have a past. One where they'd been best friends as children, but had parted for a long time, before remeeting, both very different people with vastly different experiences.)

Anyway, something important to keep in mind, Demise's weapon… IS Ghirahim.

In all honesty, she'd pity them. Both of them.

Because Ghirahim isn't just a Tsukumogami (sword spirit). He, like Fi, is the Tsukumogami of a powerful supernatural weapon, meaning that they take on actual, physical forms as well as identities of their own automatically upon being crafted.

The thing is that Tsukumogami, by their very nature, are essentially extensions of both their wielder & their forger. As in, the Tsukumogami holds a piece of their soul & identity within them.

So, he isn't simply abusing Ghirahim.

He's abusing himself.

So, she asks him. Honestly, to his face even, “Why do you feel the urge to hurt yourself? He's not simply some sharp piece of metal for you to whip around. He's PART of you! An extension of yourself! And his very existence gives your sword more power!! Why do you treat that which is you & who cares about you, so badly!?”

I do love Demise as a character and also as an idea. He is the first, he is the cause of the Curse. He could be considered the reason that the Legend of Zelda began. I wish Nintendo gave more information about him! I want to see that past! How he was made, was he born, what caused him to want mayhem for the land. Is it instinct? Is it ambition? Is it just destruction he wants or is there something that domino'd his actions?

He's just really neat, and I am so happy I started adding him as well. I wish he wasn't just a one-off character for Nintendo. I need more lore about him.

As for your ask, I like that OC of yours! She sounds so neat, and her design is fascinating! I now really want to

Demise's Reaction to Karina's Confrontation

Initial Reaction:

Demise would initially react with anger and denial. He would be taken aback by Karina's accusation, feeling a mix of shock and resentment.

His pride and ego would flare up, causing him to lash out verbally, possibly even physically, in an attempt to assert his dominance and dismiss her claims.

Internal Conflict:

Despite his initial anger, Karina's words would resonate deeply within Demise. As a god-like being, he would be aware, at least subconsciously, of the truth in her statement.

The concept of Ghirahim being an extension of himself would stir an internal conflict. Demise's harsh treatment of Ghirahim would be a reflection of his own inner turmoil and self-loathing, something he might not have fully acknowledged until now.

Response:

After his initial outburst, Demise might become more introspective, though still defensive. He could respond with something like, "You know nothing of what it means to wield true power, Karina. Ghirahim is a tool, a weapon forged for my purposes."

As Karina persists, reminding him of their shared past and her genuine concern, Demise's defenses would gradually crack. He might show signs of vulnerability, albeit reluctantly. He could retort, "You speak of things you cannot understand. Power demands sacrifice, and Ghirahim's fate is the price of that power."

Emotional Turmoil:

Demise would feel a mix of anger, shame, and confusion. Her words would force him to confront his own actions and the deeper reasons behind his treatment of Ghirahim.

He might begin to question his motivations and the pain he inflicts on himself through Ghirahim. The realization that his abuse of Ghirahim is a reflection of his own self-hatred would be a difficult pill to swallow.

Possible Outcome:

Depending on the depth of their past relationship and the strength of Karina's influence, Demise might start to reconsider his actions. He could begin to see Ghirahim not just as a weapon but as a part of himself that deserves respect and care.

This confrontation could mark the beginning of a shift in Demise's perspective, leading to a more complex and introspective character development. However, given Demise's nature, any significant change would likely be slow and fraught with resistance.

Overall Feelings:

Demise would be deeply troubled by Karina's accusation. Her words would force him to confront uncomfortable truths about himself, leading to a period of intense emotional and psychological turmoil.

He might feel a mix of resentment towards Karina for making him face these truths and gratitude for her honesty and concern. This duality could further complicate their relationship, adding layers to their interactions moving forward.

Summary

Karina's confrontation would deeply affect Demise, forcing him to confront his treatment of Ghirahim and the underlying self-loathing it represents. His initial anger would give way to introspection and emotional conflict, potentially leading to a gradual change in his behavior and perspective. This interaction would add depth to both characters, highlighting their complex relationship and individual struggles.

*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*

BONUS DUE TO YOUR AMAZING NEW OC KARINA: Could you give me some examples and dialogue of how Demise could have attempted courtship of Karina and how she very sternly punished him for his attempts?

TW: NOTHING GRAPHIC HERE JUST A LITTLE CONCERNING IMO! KIDNAPPING, ATTEMPTED FORCED WEDDING, AMBUSH, STRONG WOMAN BEATS HIS ASS DONT WORRY

------------------------------

Demise's Courtship Attempts and Karina's Stern Responses

Attempt 1: The Ambush

Setting: A moonlit clearing in a secluded forest. Demise, confident and determined, waits for Karina, planning to ambush her.

Demise: (Emerges from the shadows, grabbing Karina's wrist.) "Karina, you belong by my side. I will make you my queen, and together we will rule with unmatched power."

Karina: (Calmly twists her wrist, breaking Demise's grip, and steps back.) "Demise, you should know better than to think you can force me into anything."

Demise: (Angrily steps forward, trying to grab her again.) "You will be mine, Karina!"

Karina: (Swiftly delivers a powerful kick to Demise's chest, sending him crashing into a tree.) "I am not some prize to be claimed. Respect my autonomy, or you will find yourself on the ground every time."

Attempt 2: The Forced Wedding

Setting: A dark, ominous temple where Demise has prepared a forced wedding ceremony.

Demise: (Grabs Karina and drags her to the altar.) "Today, you will become my wife. Our union will be sealed with power and darkness."

Karina: (Uses her four arms to break free from his grip, glaring at him.) "This is madness, Demise. I will not be bound to you against my will."

Demise: (Furious, attempts to use his dark magic to restrain her.) "You will not defy me!"

Karina: (Channels her divine power, creating a protective barrier around herself. With a swift motion, she disarms Demise and throws him to the ground.) "You cannot control me, Demise. Your power is meaningless if you cannot understand respect and consent."

Attempt 3: The Kidnapping

Setting: A secluded mountain cave where Demise has taken Karina, attempting to isolate her.

Demise: (Stands at the entrance, blocking her path.) "You will stay here until you agree to be mine."

Karina: (Unfazed, steps forward, her four arms poised for battle.) "You think you can keep me here? You underestimate my resolve."

Demise: (Tries to use his strength to overpower her.) "You will see reason, Karina. We are meant to be together."

Karina: (Effortlessly overpowers Demise, pinning him to the ground.) "You must learn that force and intimidation will get you nowhere with me. If you truly care for me, show it through respect, not brute strength."

Attempt 4: The Confrontation

Setting: A grand hall in Demise's stronghold, where he confronts Karina with his desires.

Demise: (Steps forward, trying to embrace her.) "Karina, I want you by my side. Together, we are unstoppable."

Karina: (Pushes him away, her eyes cold and determined.) "Your desires do not dictate my choices. I am not yours to claim."

Demise: (Angry, attempts to use his dark energy to bind her.) "You will be mine, one way or another."

Karina: (Effortlessly breaks free, delivering a powerful punch that sends Demise flying across the hall.) "I will not tolerate your arrogance and disrespect. You must learn that true strength comes from understanding and respect, not domination."

Dialogue and Emotional Impact

Karina's Words:

"You think power is everything, Demise, but without respect, it means nothing."

"I pity you, Demise. You seek to dominate because you fear what you cannot control."

"You need to understand that true strength lies in respecting others, not in forcing your will upon them."

Demise's Emotional Turmoil:

Initially, Demise would be furious and frustrated, his pride wounded by Karina's rejection and physical dominance.

Over time, her words and actions would force him to reflect on his approach and the nature of true power and respect.

This introspection could lead to a deeper, albeit conflicted, respect for Karina, recognizing her strength and autonomy.

These examples illustrate the dynamic between Karina and Demise, highlighting her unwavering resolve and his gradual realization of the importance of respect and consent.

#mallowresponse #legend of zelda #demise #skyward sword #ai use #use of chatgpt

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canirove · 2 years

Text

Rúben Dias Imagine | one | Christmas Edition 🎄✨

Masterlist

*Female reader/pov

"And done with the Hale's, we only have two people left. The Robert's and him."

"I'll do the Robert's!"

"No, no, no. We'll decide it with rock, paper, scissors. Best of three."

"Ok. Ready?"

"Ready" I say. "Rock, paper, scissors..."

━━━━━━❃━━━━━━

"Ok" I say, taking a deep breath and ringing the bell. "It's gonna be ok. He may not even be home. He'll probably be somewhere being rude to someone or... Jesus, Mary and Joseph" I say when the door opens and I find myself looking at man's torso. One with perfect pectorals and perfect abs.

"Hello? Hey. Hey!" he says, clapping in front of my face.

"Careful there, that was my nose!" I say, taking a step back.

"It's not my fault that you weren't answering. What do you want?"

"There is no need to be that rude" I say, finally looking up from his chest and to his face. Which is a mistake. He's looking at me in a way that feels like he is staring into my soul, and his hair... His hair looks so fluffy and messy and as if he had been... Oh. OH! "I better go, you were clearly busy with someone."

"I what?" he chuckles.

"Yeah, you... You know."

"I don't know, no" he says, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning into the door's frame, his biceps showing in all their glory.

"Jesus Christ."

"Didn't know you were so religious."

"Shut up. I have to go."

"Already? Why did you come?"

"I came to bring you some Christmas cookies. My flatmate and I have this tradition of baking cookies for our neighbours after making too many a few years ago and not knowing what to do with them."

"And you aren't giving me mine?"

"You are busy. And you don't look like the type of guy who eats cookies" I shrug, my eyes still fixed on his arms.

"I'm not busy, I was just working out. And I eat cookies. Sometimes."

"Wait, you were working out?"

"Yes. What did you think I was doing?" he asks with a smirk.

"Nothing, forget about it."

"Nothing? I'm pretty sure you said I was with someone, and I can imagine what you thought we were doing. It's a type of work out I also enjoy a lot in case you are interested."

"And why would I be interested on that?" I say with a nervous laugh.

"Because you haven't been able to stop looking at my body?" he says, arching a brow. "And your face is as red as that ugly jumper you are wearing."

"Well, you opened the door half naked. It's impossible to not look at you, and you know it. And this jumper isn't ugly."

"I beg to differ. I'm sure that what is underneath it is much better" he smirks.

"I... You..."

"Just stating facts. Anyway, am I getting my cookies or not?"

"You don't deserve them for being rude."

"And if I made you a cup of tea? C'mon" he says, finally moving from the door's frame and walking into his apartment. "Are you coming or not?"

"Fine" I say, following him.

"Close the door, please."

"Oh, wow, you know the word please? And is that a Christmas tree?"

"Ha, ha. You are so funny. And yes, it is. Why so surprised?"

"I don't know. I expected you to be the Grinch or something" I shrug.

"You wound me" he says from behind the kitchen isle, putting a hand on his chest. His toned and perfect chest. "What type of tea do you like?"

"Black."

"Like my soul?" he says with a teasing smile.

"Exactly" I reply, also smiling. "What about you?"

"I don't like tea" he says, putting the kettle on.

"You what?"

"I just don't" he shrugs, the muscles on his back moving in a way that makes me feel... Things. "Milk?"

"Yes, please."

"And sugar? You look like a sugar girl."

"What does that mean?"

"Making cookies for your neighbours during Christmas? That's what a sweet girl does."

"One thing doesn't have to be related to the other."

"So no sugar?" he asks, opening a cabinet and a picking a mug. A Christmas mug.

"Two spoons."

"See? A sweet girl" he smirks.

"Whatever."

"There you have, my lady. Is it good?" he asks.

"For someone who doesn't like tea, it is really good, yeah. Congratulations."

"Thank you. Though I usually make the tea after, not before having sex" he says, making me choke with my tea and spill it all over my jumper. "You are gonna have to take it off, now."

"What?"

"Your jumper. Do you need help?"

"I can do it myself, thank you."

"And I was right again. What you were hiding under that ugly thing is way better" he says, his eyes fixed on my chest. I'm just wearing a thin tank top and no bra, the jumper being so thick that I didn't need anything else.

"Can you please stop looking at my boobs?"

"You did it first" he says with that stupid smirk of his. "Your shoulders are beautiful, by the way."

"What?" I say while watching him walk towards me.

"Your shoulders. And your collar bones. They are so beautiful."

"Thank you?" I say, my voice shaking a bit. He is now standing in front of me, and very close. Too close.

"May I touch them?"

"Ok?" I say.

The moment his finger touches my skin, I hear myself gasping, my skin burning as he follows the shape of my collar bone all the way to my shoulder.

"Don't bite your lip."

"Uh?"

"You are biting your lip" he says as his fingers move down my arm. "Don't do it."

"Why?" I chuckle.

"Because it turns me on" he says, his eyes meeting mine and, again, making me feel as if he is staring into my soul.

"I'm sorry, but I don't have control over it, it just happens."

"Liar."

"I'm not lying."

"You are. You are biting your lip because you fear you may moan if I keep touching you."

"That's stupid."

"Liar" he says again, moving a bit closer. "But if you want to play that game..."

"What game?"

"I touch you, you try not to moan, and we'll see who wins. Are you in?"

"I'm in" I gulp, knowing perfectly well I am going to lose.

"We haven't specified if I can touch just with my fingers or something else, so..." he says before kissing my neck, making me grab the kitchen isle when I feel my knees threatening to give in.

But he doesn't stop there. He keeps kissing me, sometimes biting my skin, going down to my shoulder and back up to my neck. So far I am resisting, definitely biting my lip to not lose this stupid game. Though it is hard, really hard. Especially when he moves even closer and I can feel his chest against mine. That small touch, mixed with another kiss on my neck, is what undoes me. I can't resist it anymore, and I let out a moan.

"I win" he says against my skin, kissing my shoulder one last time before lifting his head and looking at me. "Do I deserve those cookies now?"

"They are all yours."

"Thank you" he smiles. "But you know... Right now I'm the mood to eat other things."

"An avocado toast?" I say, making him laugh.

"I was thinking about eating this" he says, brushing his lips against mine. "And then this" he continues, one of his hands leaving the kitchen isle and moving to my chest, his thumb barely touching over my nipple and making me moan again. "And then..." he says, that same hand moving down my stomach and stopping at the hem of my leggings. "May I show you what I want to eat next?"

"Yes" I whisper.

"Then I want to eat this."

"Rúben" I moan when I feel his fingers touching me, definitely biting my lip as I try to stay still.

"That's the first time you've said my name."

"Is it?"

"It is" he says, still moving his fingers. "Say it again."

"I... Fuck."

"Yes, we are going to do that. But first I want to hear you say my name. Just once."

"I... I..."

"If you don't, I'll stop."

"Make me say it, then" I dare him.

"You asked for it" he says, stopping as he said he would, but moving his hands back to the hem of leggings, pulling them down with my knickers before picking me up in a swift move and sitting me on the kitchen isle. "My plan was to eat this last, but..." he says as he sits on one of the chairs, lifting one of my legs, putting it on his shoulder and starting to leave kisses on my inner thigh.

"Just stop teasing me and do it, Rúben."

"That's not how I wanted to hear you say my name."

"Jesus" I say, rolling my eyes.

"Wrong man" he chuckles.

"I think I'm taking back my cookies."

"Ok, ok" he says, leaving one last kiss on my inner thigh before finally doing what we both wanted, and making me moan his name not long after.

━━━━━━❃━━━━━━

"Are you sure you don't want one?"

"Nah, I'm fine."

"Your loss" I shrug, giving my cookie another bite. "You've earned them, you know?"

"I know" Rúben chuckles. "But I prefer eating them from you."

"What?"

"Here" he says, picking a cookie crumb from my chest and eating it. "So good."

"Then eat the whole thing."

"You or the cookie?" he asks with a cheeky smile.

"First the cookie, then me. That way you will burn all the calories."

"Sounds like a plan. Where is the box?"

"Here" I say, picking it from the floor. "You are sleeping with cookies tonight" I laugh when he grabs one and it breaks in half, leaving crumbs all over the sheets.

"I thought I was going to sleep with you."

"Maybe. Though my flatmate probably is already wondering where I am."

"Tell her that the rude neighbour ate one of your cookies, he became the most charming man in the building, and you couldn't resist him. It was a Christmas miracle" Rúben says, eating half the cookie in one go.

"And then I had to save his life because he almost choked with one. Easy, boy" I laugh.

"You may have to save my life, yes. I need some mouth to mouth."

"Really?"

"Really" he says, laying on the bed. "I'm dying."

"Ok then" I say, moving to be on top of him and kissing him.

"Not enough, I'm still dying."

"Urgh" I say, kissing him again with more passion. "Now?"

"Much better. Thank you for saving my life, neighbour" he smiles, putting a lock of hair behind my ear.

"You're welcome, neighbour. It is your Christmas present."

"Best present ever" he says before kissing me again, that kiss being the first of many more.

#ruben dias #ruben dias imagine #ruben dias fanfic #ruben dias x reader #football imagine #football fanfic #rubenimagine

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coolgirl32 · 9 months

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What they do during Christmas. I know it's been a while since I did this but I hope you all enjoy it also no copywriting as you know I'm going to write about the X-Men as usual

Dog logan 🤠🐶

Before he met you he would spend his Christmas drinking whiskey and being lonely and acting like the Grinch and Scrooge. but when he met you his heart grew three times bigger (pun intended) and now he's much more excited about Christmas than ever I'm talking about him putting whiskey in his eggnog wearing a Santa suit for you on sexy time decorating his cabin for Christmas he's even more excited since you and him had your daughter and he's very excited to put her on her little Christmas onesie that said baby's first Christmas which is so cute by the way he loves Christmas and he wants his daughter to have a really good childhood and Christmas not the one he had when he was a little kid because he never had a good Christmas as a child he feels like he can be a better father than his dad ever was. Christmas photos are a must he will take several Christmas photos of you and everyone else. I also think he would put on country Christmas songs or Christmas carols and sing along.

Wolverine 🐺

He didn't really like the holidays because of so much sadness in his life that's until you came into his life he's a little less grumpy nowadays on Christmas but still being himself there would be snowball fights sometimes I also think he would put Christmas lights out on the roof because he doesn't want you getting hurt I also think he would help you decorate the tree watching Christmas movies and drinking hot chocolate is one of the greatest things to do with wolverine among other things. Spending time with his kids is also a great thing too cuz family has to stick together you know I also think he could sing Christmas songs only in front of you no one else can know about it 🤣 I think he'd be very curious on what you'd want for Christmas but he would always try to get you the best things like a good sweater uggs and some jewelry I also think he would want to spend time with you on Christmas nothing too fancy or anything.

Soul Creed 🦁

He and his sister only spend Christmas together just the two of them cuz when they were little kids their Christmas wasn't really a good one but ever since you came into his life he doesn't feel like Christmas is sad anymore he feels like Christmas is happy because he gets to spend it with his sister and you the love of his life. I also think that he would get you something very special like a locket with a picture of you and him and I also think he would get his sister something special too I also think that he might make you and his sister and him some hot chocolate and watch Christmas movies like Rudolph the Red-Nosed reindeer or Frosty the snowman I also think he would help you and his sister out with decorating the whole house and also having a Christmas dinner together. It warms up his heart that he has finally found someone that actually loves him for who he is and that there is someone that gets along with his sister deep down inside he knows that he doesn't deserve you but you remind him that he is loved and that you'll always love him for who he is.

Omega red

Before he met you he didn't really understand nor liked Christmas because when he was a child he never had any happiness in his life now as an adult he was even more unhappy that's until he met you now he's happy and he feels warm inside. His icy cold heart melted you are going to have to explain to him how to celebrate Christmas because when he was a kid him and his family never celebrated Christmas he was a little confused at first but with a Little help from you he finally got the hang of it he didn't know what to get you at first until he saw what you really wanted you were looking at this really cool awesome book that you had your eye on for a couple of days now so without you knowing he bought it and wrapped it up for you and when Christmas day came and you opened it you were surprised when you open up his present however he was even more happy it was a book he had once when he was a little kid he hugged you and thanked you and gave you a wonderful passionate kiss you too then drink hot chocolate and watch movies.

Victor Creed 🐯🦁(I'm using my OC)

When Victor was a young boy he never really understood about Christmas his father was a drunk and Christmas for him wasn't really that happy skip to many many years later she came into his life Victor is very happy with his wife Jacqulyn and is very excited about Christmas because he gets suspended with her when they eventually had their daughter his life became even more brighter and more happier and Christmas was even more joyful and exciting he decorates the house with his wife and make sure that everything is very fun he also buys his daughter a little onesie that says baby girls first Christmas to keep the memories he takes photos I think he would call his little brother and sister and everyone he knows and loves I also think that he would get his wife something beautiful like jewelry a beautiful picture frame with a beautiful family photo of him his wife and daughter while his wife gets him something like a new watch or something he'd like.

I hope everybody will have a wonderful Christmas and what are your thoughts on my post and please don't be afraid to request any fanfic

#xmen x fem reader #xmen x my oc's

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brooklynislandgirl · 2 years

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Advent Calendar: Day 8 @kylo-wrecked

The best way she could describe the look on Ben’s face was dubious. Brow raised, head tilted, mouth not settled between a frown and a bemused smile. Still, he ventures forth from the foyer into the open space of her living room and kitchen. Drops down next to her on the couch while she sits lotus style at her coffee table with two bowls and a spool of thick waxen string stuck through with a long, heavy gauge needle. “Jus’ in time,” she beams. Discretion is the better part of valour afterall. For a moment the resemblance to the little blonde, blue-eyed creature on her television ~a rare occurrence to be on and actually playing something, in this case, the 1966 version of the famous story~ is uncanny. An onlooker would then have to wonder if Ben himself is the Grinch. Beth would instinctively deny the possibility based on emotion alone, offended on his behalf. “You said it was urgent.” Ben isn’t wrong, she did say that in the text. Not that she wanted him out in the snow that’s been falling for hours, threatening the city with its own particular kind of siege. Six inches with a predicted foot and a half more over the day making roads dangerous and the air painful to breathe. Were her words truthful? It depended on how one chose to define the statement. Did she really need help making popcorn-and-cranberry strings for the tree? Not exactly. She’d already hung sage leaves and dried orange slices from the mantle of the fireplace. There’s one for her, one for the cat absent in presence at the moment. There’s one for her friend Jay. One for her brother who wouldn’t be coming home and that one is probably the most heartbreaking. Can the dead celebrate holidays? There’s even one for him. Name twinkling due to the sequins that spelled it out. Mostly though, she wanted to spare him from being trapped at home. She’s seen the highly stylised and sterile holiday decor ~funny, she’d always assumed that Ben was Jewish~ that looked immaculate in press photo-shoots but in reality had no warmth or comfort. This lack of soul in her opinion was a travesty. And what better way to combat the beginning of winter’s doldrums than by being wanted? Curling up with some great movies and even better take away, with one of your dearest and most loved friends? “I may have exaggerate but…now dat ya heah, you could stay, right?” She has no idea if the sound he makes is even a word, much less whether or not he was agreeing. She leans back and drapes an arm around his knee. There’s six counties between it and his hip so she isn’t really violating any too-personal space. “My prop’sition to ya. Eiddah you can hold da end of da string and push each granberry or popcorn down to da knot gently, or ya can take internal frustration out an’ stab dem wi’ dis needle also carefully. P’sonally, I like two granberry between each popcorn. Wha’evah’s left aftah, we can turn into hurricane, an’ curl up an’ watch movies til Christmas bleed out out eyes an’ we decide time for General Tsao’s or mushy pork.” Dream-soft smile, winsome on her delicate face and dripping sweetness enough to make his teeth and other parts of him ache in ways her words really can’t. It’s the cruelty of the season; pure hope that demands nothing more pressing from him than his company, with the built in protections of not having to talk if he doesn’t want to. Whatever Ben is ~whether a burnt out nova whose explosion was so bright it could be seen without telescope, or some new sun born over a distant world inside on Yule~ he’s still so very much the simple comfort she wants to share in. “Might even let ya open one of ya presents early. Wha’ya say?”

#kylo-wrecked #Ho'okahua|Ben and Beth #Look Both Ways|Modern Verse #Brooklyn Stories|New York #Merry Christmas 2022

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themculibrary · 3 months

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Inspired By A Movie Masterlist

a marvelous gift (ao3) - biblionerd07 steve/bucky T, 74k

Summary: Bucky Barnes has a curse: he has to obey any orders he receives. It gets more complicated when he becomes best friends with Steve Rogers--the prince who will one day be king.

A Mermaid's Kiss (ao3) - luna_was_taken steve/bucky, bucky/steve/tony M, 9k

Summary: There had been rumors of a sunken pirate ship, not too far away from Tony's nest, and he'd headed out to investigate. He was expecting to find some cool trinkets, or maybe even a treasure -- shipwrecks were always full of human-made stuff, and Tony liked to collect and study it.

What he ended up finding, though, was a bit bigger than a couple of cute toys. Seriously, what was Tony going to do with two shipwrecked sailors?

(For the Stuckony server Remix event: a Merman!Tony AU)

Avengers: First Contact (ao3) - drunkenpandaren G, 4k

Summary: A file with the name Sam Witwicky, Autobot and nothing else. If anything, Tony's curiosity sends Sam Wilson and Clint Barton to Mission City in the middle of a festival in 2015, 8 years after "a rogue military incident" wrecked the city.

Broken Pieces (ao3) - celeste9 nebula/rey T, 4k

Summary: When Rey brought a droid back to her AT-AT with the intention of repairing it and earning herself more credits than she had ever seen in her life, the last thing she was expecting was for the droid to turn out to be not a droid at all, but a cybernetically modified being called Nebula who didn't take well to being scavenged for parts.

Catching Lightning in a Bottle (ao3) - sabrecmc steve/tony M, 120k

Summary: College student Tony meets janitor Steve at MIT and they fall blissfully in love, until Howard happens and things fall apart. One divorce paperwork snafu courtesy of the ever-helpful Jarvis, and ten years later, Tony has to get re-divorced from Steve.

This does not go as he imagines.

Or, the Sweet Home Alabama AU that no one--well, okay, a few of you--asked for.

deice your lonely heart (ao3) - STARSdidathing loki/tony T, 16k

Summary: Inside a snowflake like the one on your sleeve, there happened a story you must see to believe.

Loki, a Jotun on Mt Jotunheim, was all alone; abhorred and feared by the Midgardians and the Aesir he hadn’t seen another soul since he ran away as a child. Tony Stark was a Midgardian who didn’t quite fit in with all the Christmas cheer. He needed to climb the Mountain to retrieve something and to get away from all the festivities.

Tony was never one to believe in rumors but Loki was never one to believe in miracles. Christmas was just a fairytale and neither of them expected anything else. Grinch!AU.

ever in your favor (ao3) - iron_spider T, 153k

Summary: Peter startles awake when someone shakes him.

“Sorry, honey,” May says. Peter blinks a couple times and she comes into focus, her hair pulled back from her face. She’s trying not to look a certain way, but he can see it in her eyes anyway. She clears her throat, keeps talking. “But it’s…” She glances away, wets her lips. “You gotta get ready.”

He remembers what day it is, and his heart beats like a drum at someone’s execution. But he tries to put on a mask, make it all seem normal. It’s everything but, despite the fact that he’s been dealing with reaping day since he was born, between himself, Ben and May. That fear that one of them could be taken away. Sent to surefire slaughter. But now Ben is gone, taken despite never having his name drawn from a bowl, and May’s finally safe. Now Peter’s name is in there alone. The last Parker sitting on the chopping block. He doesn’t know how to be. He doesn’t know what normal is, when the Hunger Games are looming on the horizon.

magic follows courage (ao3) - mtothedestiel steve/bucky E, 27k

Summary: A Cinderella AU. Steve is as kind and brave as his body is frail and sickly, which is to say very. Meanwhile, Prince Bucky must marry for the good of his kingdom, but he knows he will never find love with a princess. Can courage, and a little magic, help Steve attend a ball, and Prince Bucky find his True Love?

Maybe Tomorrow (ao3) - scifigrl47 steve/tony M, 178k

Summary: Tony Stark may well be the richest man in America. In the depths of the Great Depression, that's no small claim. When a plot is hatched for him to take in an orphan for a week, everyone knows it's a publicity stunt. No one knows it better than Officer Steve Rogers, but he's got a job to do, and he's going to do it. Doesn't mean he's going to approve.

Yes, it's an Annie AU.

Yes. That Annie.

of wizards and heroes (ao3) - storyforsomeone loki/harry T, 85k

Summary: Centuries after that fatal day of the battle of Hogwarts, Harry Potter has fallen into legend, a bedtime story parents tell their children, a name whispered around campfires. He wanders the world alone and immortal, until one single reckless moment sends him hurtling into a parallel dimension of heroes and villains. A new enemy arises from an ancient power, and Harry must take a stand as the last wizard to protect this new world. If only SHIELD would stop trying to track him down…and someone could explain what the hell was an ‘Avenger’ was supposed to be. Honestly, muggles…

Protectors of the Nebula (fanfiction.net) - What If Universe G, 20k

Summary: The war is over. But the battle has only begun. The Republic has fallen, and the Jedi were slaughtered but some survived. Peter Parker, Spider-Man, Kate Bishop, Hawkeye. Amber Morgan, a Jedi Padawan, and Captain Rex. They have survived Order 66 and are now out on their own, protecting what's left of the Galaxy from the Empire. But are they going to be enough, or is it all for not?

scars where all my sins bled (ao3) - Little_Lottie (tfwatson), tfwatson steve/bucky E, 97k

Summary: An Underworld movie AU

Two hundred and six years ago to the day, Bucky became a vampire. Fuelled by vengeance, he has become his coven’s greatest weapon in the immortal war against the lycans.

Following an anonymous tip, Bucky saves Steve Rogers for the sake of his coven, and maybe for reasons he refuses to examine too closely. But then Steve is bitten and now they stand on opposite sides of an unending blood feud.

There isn’t a world for a lycan and a vampire, but somewhere between a subway station and a safe house, a Black Widow bite and the rising tide of lost memories, Bucky finds himself doubting everything he thought he knew - including that age-old rule about never falling in love with a werewolf.

Star Wars: Civil War - Law & Order (ao3) - Justyce_15 mj/peter, kate/america T, 35k

Summary: What if all of the Empire's and Rebellion's leadership was taken out, and now the galaxy was in chaos? This is the story of Michelle Jones, agent of Rebel Intelligence, trying to navigate this galaxy and do the right thing, when the right thing is the hardest thing to do. Can she find love and happiness? And where does Peter Parker fit in to her future?

the avenger games (ao3) - lorata 174k

Summary: Nick Fury brings together some of Panem’s best and brightest for a Hunger Game that will, hopefully, kick off the Rebellion and end President Snow’s reign of tyranny. But how optimistic is he being? Can people really change? And how much sacrifice is too much?

The Blue Food Project (ao3) - liketolaugh T, 107k

Summary: Foggy meets Sally in a grocery store, sees the three bottles of food coloring in her cart, and listens to her talk about how much her son loves it for about ten minutes before he decides he's in love. About four months later, Natasha drops by the Jacksons' apartment to take her first close look at the child that heralds the realization of the Great Prophecy.

He looks small, for the end of the world.

The Proposal (ao3) - The_Nerd_Alert steve/bucky E, 112k

Summary: Steve Rogers works as an executive assistant for his demon of a boss James Barnes, at Pierce Publishing. Everyone HATES working with James Barnes, the epitome of Satan himself in every way possible. But when his Visa for immigration is denied, James quickly hatches a plan and drags Steve into a plot to thwart the United States Government into thinking they are engaged to avoid deportation. Thus follows the weekend from your wildest imagination as boss and employee learn about themselves and what it means to be truly happy.

vacation gone wrong (ao3) - haveufoundwhaturlookingfor bucky/clint T, 3k

Summary: Marvel meets Jurassic World.

Bucky knew from the beginning it was going to go wrong when Clint told them that he bought tickets to the famous Jurassic World theme park. Yet somehow, he allows his boyfriend to drag him out there anyways.

we’ve got a mystery to solve, so be ready for your act (ao3) - Meatball42 steve/tony, pepper/natasha T, 3k

Summary: Clint, Natasha, Steve, Thor, and Bruce of Mystery Inc. get their biggest client yet when they are hired by Stark Industries. Will the team manage to solve the mystery, make a match or two, and secure a tax-qualified, defined-contribution pension account? Or will the various chemicals they’ve imbibed produce only chaos?

#themculibrary #marvel #mcu #masterlists #au #crossover #crossover masterlist #movies #movies masterlist

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hellmouth-manor · 8 months

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Ah, Onto Where Night Will End || Yukiko and Hibiki || Re: take the future

[♫♫♫]

“You can be free.”

Resonant.

Hibiki glances around, at the fallen Micah, at the massive, hulking beast that they once knew as Alou, at the group who came here together with the singular purpose of taking their lives back.

And he looks in his own hand, feeling the pulse of his own soul between his fingertips.

And he looks over at Yukiko, human once more and turned away from the madness. He grabs her by the shoulder, his other hand pointed up and aiming his soul at their target.

“Hey. I think there’s something we have to do.”

As she had promised, in her never ending wealth of conceit, Yukiko has her back fully turned to Alou. She glanced over, looking up from examining her cuticles, when Olwin or Mirai spoke, or, Hibiki - the only people she cared to invest any interest or time in. Villain monologues are normally funny, but this one is sad and pathetic in a way that makes it unfun to watch or indulge.

She smooths her hair down and looks over at Hibiki with a hum, before glancing at Alou, unwilling to pass the chance to be a bitch.

“Geez, come on Ally, you can’t even keep Miccy on a leash? Do you even want to win? Did you even try? I can’t tell if you’re conceited or just stupid. If this is your best effort, then… How pitiful. Escort yourself off stage with what little grace you possess. You couldn’t even manage to make the world's worst people worse. I think some people might say I had a grinch moment, my heart grew a few sizes - gross - come onnn Ally, I killed Mandy out of boredom and even I’m cringing at you.”

“Take a good hard look at what's left of you in the mirror,if you can stand the sight - I know I can’t - and shudder a what you’ve become.Worthless failure, not worthy of even the idea of love,” Yukiko sneers, as always, lips pulled back in a shark-like motion, like a predator ready to rip out the throat of her prey.

But it shifts right to a very normal and warm smile when she looks over at Hibiki. “What is it, Hibi? I wasn’t paying attention, sowwy.”

He returns her smile, glancing upwards once more at Alou, at the architect of their sorrows.

“Follow my lead,” He asks, putting his shoulder out towards her, the orb in his hands coalescing into the tip of his index finger, glowing a soft, luminescent red aimed directly at Alou’s chest in the shape of a finger gun. “I think it’s time to blow this manor away.”

“I guess I can. I hear you got good at destroying shit after I got executed! I’ll follow your lead, just this once, since I’m soooo generous.”

That's the ability of caring about someone.They can push you into action, when before you would have done nothing. Being personally wronged and hurt - matters very little to Yukiko - a being made of more scar tissue than flesh, there’s so little left of her that can be hurt, but the wounds reopen with salted hands over and over, she can’t help but be annoyed that people like Hibiki and Mirai have endured more than they had to, because of someone less than worthless.

Yukiko thinks of sitting across from Mirai and realizing people like them don’t have to be wretched like the people that hurt them - there’s a world where her soul wasn’t tattered and bruised like it is now. She didn’t have to be this person who wouldn’t let herself care about others, in fear of how they would hurt what was left, two women hated by life itself, enjoying coffee together, being patted on the head and fearing, for once the reply to “do you hate me?”

She can easily say she loves their time together, and she loves Mirai, too. It’s a tiny miracle, to love.

It’s not a worthless world that needs to be burned to let something new grow. It has people who don’t hate a hideous person like her, though they should after what she’s done to wrong them, like Kamiya and Olwin. She can dig up what remains of the garden in her heart and start to water it again. And now there might be a chance someone else will want to help out, someone who still happily calls himself her biggest fan. Maybe she deserves something like that. She’s come to enjoy not being alone.

For all the times she’s dragged Hibiki out of his room, he’s done the same in turn. She doesn’t mind being dragged around for once.

“Okay, ready when you are! Let's get this over with!”

He flinches a little at the gag about his little destructive temper tantrum, something he won’t live down anytime soon, and huffs. “S-Seriously, th-there were so many better times to bring that up than now! I—I had a lot going on! I—W-We’ll talk about it later!!”

Yukiko winks and laughs.

Hibiki faces down the person responsible for him standing here today, shoulder to shoulder with the person responsible for who he is standing here today, and smiles triumphantly.

There’s so much in his chest, thinking of the idea of his own virtue. He was certain he had none, that he had to work himself to death in creation, in problem solving, in bombastic explosions of personality, uncontrollable wildfires that burned him inside and out. Anything to make up for who he was and what he wasn’t.

He considers the soul returned to his body, a filled hole he hadn’t even noticed was empty by now because of the experiences that had shaped him through their time here. Kamiya, who had only ever done his best and who showed Hibiki how to let himself have a bit more fun, to be a friend and accept friendship. Who Hibiki had callously thrown away, but could even still feel resonate in the little orb in his hand. There’s a sense in him that there’s something he should be more thankful for, even now, though he doesn’t understand it.

He considers the people who showed him that he wasn’t alone even in his suffering; Mirai, who let him act out as he pleased and lent a shoulder and an ear for him, but never accepted what he shouldn’t have given in the first place. Who forced him to question why he was so hellbent, who softened his edges by virtue of being there. Miori, who reached out to him, and who kept around even in the rockiest of times. He considered that he might have hated her at some point, but only because of how he hated himself. Loathe as he would ever be to admit it, he was sorry for what she’d gone through. Sorry for what it did to her, and hopeful she might get to come back from it later. A level of care and personal concern that he’d never realized he could offer.

Hibiki, holding onto his virtue, considers those who questioned his empty belief. He thinks of Olwin, who even through all of their bickering and fighting and venom, might damn well be a friend after all. Though their clashes always felt fruitless, like circling around a problem that could never be solved, Hibiki comes to understand those fights were what made him question himself. What took him from his vapid idealism and condescending platitudes, and forced him to consider the human element.

“And you'd do almost anything to keep it. 'Cause without it you'd go back to feeling like you did before. And the idea of going back—you can't do that. You just can't.”

Hibiki looks over, just a little.

Hibiki looks at the person who strung him along, who put him through hell when they were already there, who might well have had the opportunity to ruin his life if she wanted to go so far. Because he opened himself to it. To her.

And yet she stuck around. And she made good on the falsehoods. Hibiki considers how he might have died by now if she hadn’t given him the courage to step outside his door and trust people. Ironic, considering what she’d done to it, and yet she fixed it. Helped him to feel whole.

The person who came here cried for justice and little else, looked down on and scorned his peers because it was the best he could do to ease the aching, hollow loneliness and self-loathing in his soul. Shackled by a past he claimed to have outrun long ago.

“It makes me happy to be called heroic. I want to be. Brave like Kamen Rider, and ingenious like Yugi Mutou, and cool like Jotaro Kujo.”

Maybe he can start to be Hibiki after all.

Shoulder to shoulder, smiling defiantly, both hands stretched out to aim glowing finger guns, Hibiki and Yukiko prepare to break the ties that bind them to their misery.

“Hey,” Hibiki says. “Give a cool line.”

“You do it Mr Writer,” she nudges him, shooting a look that screams are you for real? “I’ll just tell him to fuck off and die. Eat shit, asshole, fall off your high horse.” She squeezes his hand with a laugh.

He huffs back, though it sounds much more like a laugh.

“I thought you were following my lead! Fine, just don’t complain if you don’t like it!”

“Hey, doctor!” Hibiki calls out, finally addressing Alou himself.

“Your script sucked, rewrite it in the next life!”

“It might be better if you scrapped it, Ally. I don't think you’ll come back from this one. You better not, at least.

And they fire, an impossibly bright scarlet red beam emanating from interlocked hands, pointed fingers, intertwined wills; the manifestation of their souls tears through Alou, carving a gaping hole beneath his collarbone. It might have been nice to take out an arm entirely, but for the group’s opening salvo it’s visible proof that they can all put him away together.

#mm trial #cassandra #hibiki

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