#HOLLERS. THANK YOU FOR MY LIFE. REALLY GOOD QUESTIONS | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

bumblebriez · 4 months ago

Text

Love Stricken (PT.3)

(Gojo Satoru x Chubby!Fem!Reader)

(PT.1) (PT.2) (PT.4) (PT.5)

⚠️⚠️⚠️: Swearing, no smut in this one, just a bit of love and a BAD possessive Ex.

Never in a million years would you think, you'd catch the eyes of a certain jujutsu sorcerer but you did and with that came alot of consequences. That you would eventually find out the hard way.

Your parents vanished a good couple of years ago with no knowledge of why and where, leaving you; the eldest, to care and provide for your younger siblings. Being responsible and forgetting about the life you used to live, you felt lost. Struggling a lot with your self worth.

Your best friend took it upon herself to finally get you to live your life a little more by taking you out on the town for a night.

But you found that night was the start of your downfall.

Ahhhhhh hah heeeyyy 🫣

So we listen and we don’t judge..

Nah but for real, apologies for taking a long time, I really haven’t picked up any of my works, I just haven’t been motivated to write at all but what I did end up writing ages ago, I just finished. Just a reminder this isn’t following the plot, there will be aspects from it but not really.

Im gonna try and motivate myself more because I really do enjoy writing and I was really enjoying getting into the rhythm of this one. I have some… plans for this.

Sadly this chapter isn’t as long as the last two but I’ll make up for it. Appreciate the support! Thank you for reading! <3

********

GIF by saewrq

********

It been a good couple of weeks since you heard from Gojo. You quite literally held onto the fact he would call you back later.

You convinced yourself that he was just busy to save yourself some pity.

You’d kind of wished you had forgotten the whole thing but atlas, you didn’t. Every night you laid there, staring at your phone; waiting for his name to flash on the screen.

And now you’re thinking; maybe you should have called him instead.

Maybe you were in over your head already.

Maybe you were feeling delusional.

Another week goes by and you find yourself standing in your small kitchen, staring at a new bouquet of flowers that sat upon the counter.

You had assumed that they were from Gojo, though it didn’t say. You wouldn’t lie.. it was a cute gesture but it pissed you off. How did he have the time to send you fucking flowers but not send you a simple text?

Your phone resting in your hand and you struggle to tap on his contact. You run your free hand through your messy hair; trying and failing at calming your overwhelming body.

Letting out a sigh of defeat, you place your phone softly on the counter. Anxiety ran through your veins, shaking your body at the simple thought of even sending a text.

You didn’t want to seem… needy.

Even though you haven’t even tried to talk to the man.

Maybe you were playing too much and you just missed out on something that could’ve been great.

All these intrusive thoughts ran through your head, making you feel worse and worse. You fail to notice little eyes peering up at you.

“Sidda?” You break from your trance, turning to look down at the little strawberry blonde haired girl. Her little fingers wrapping around the edge of the hoodie, you wore.

“Yes baby?” You hummed, crouching down to her level.

“Are we still going to the park today, like you promised?”Her body swayed slightly as if she was nervous to ask. The question immediately triggering a previous memory of the promise from last week.

“Shit.” You whispered to yourself, Akari not hearing your swear.

“Yes.. yes! Of course. Go get your brother and we can get ready to leave.” Your eyes fluttered to your kitchen window, the bright sun rays shining through.

It is a beautiful day.

A day for distractions.

You watched excitement spread across the wee girl’s face; your lips curl into a smile.

Akari darts off, wasting no more time; her voice echoing throughout the house, hollering after her brother.

You take one last look at your phone; a desperate attempted at manifestation.

Demolishing every last bit of hope you clung onto, you let out a sigh of defeat. Your feet move before your body as they slowly stride out of the kitchen.

At least it was a good night. One you most likely won’t forget.

Little to your knowledge, the day was only beginning.

A faded smile sits on your lips as you watch the memory play on your phone. It was an old video, one where Akari didn’t even exist yet.

You watch as your father hoists your little brother into the air when he was just a wee boy, his giggling flew out of your phone’s speakers.

A familiar sadness filled your core as you swiped to another video.

Your mother was cradling her newborn in her arms, a cute little girl. Your mother’s eyes were filled with so much love as she stared down at Akari. It wasn’t long after that they had vanished, leaving nothing but leaving you with everything.

Your tongue swiped at your bottom lip, wetting the dryness as you lock your phone, having enough of reminiscing.

You look over to where your siblings had gone off too and see your little brother pushing your baby sister on the swing.

Families walked past you of all shapes and sizes, parents and their newborns. No broken families insight.

You were lost in your daze not noticing your little brother approaching you. Alone.

“Have you seen Akari?” You jump at the sudden voice, immediately alarmed.

“What do you mean Riku? She was just with you?” You exclaimed to the younger ebony haired boy, moving to stand up; your eyes scanning the playground equipment.

“I know. She just ran off, I assumed she was coming to you.” He said back, following you as you slowly made your way around the playground, looking for your little bundle of joy.

“You can’t take your eyes off her, you know that.”

“Why weren’t you watching then!” You chose to ignore his comment, knowing he was right. You should’ve known better.

Your pace started to speed up as you felt your heart leap into your throat. If anything happened to her, you would never forgive yourself.

“She kept saying something about patting the pretty doggy. Dogs aren’t even aloud in here.” Riku spoke as he kept up with you. That only made you worry even more, thinking she left the safety of the boundaries.

Both of you past the food stands, specifically the ice cream one, thinking maybe she changed her course and was wanting an ice cream.

You accidentally bumped into a man, not bothering to look up, too focused on your own.

You muttered a quick apology before setting off again, pulling your little brother with you.

The man stood in shock and confusion at the sudden impact that he was not expecting; watching as you disappeared from his view.

To your relief, the search was short lived as the familiar strawberry blonde started to come into view.

You sigh loudly as you made your way to her, seeing a teen crouched down, talking to the little girl.

“Akari! You can’t run off like that.” Ignoring the teen, you quickly pulled the girl into your arms, squeezing her tightly.

“I wanted to pat the pretty puppy.” Her voice croaked out as you held her at arms length.

“Honey. Dogs aren’t aloud in here.” You say softly as you caressed her plush red cheek in your hand.

“Yeah. Idiot.” Riku muttered lightly, earning a glare from you.

“Yes they are. It was his doggy!” She pointed to the teen behind her and you finally acknowledged the awkward teen as he stared at the little girl with a semi shocked expression.

“I’m sorry about her. She has a crazy imagination. Always running off to find something new.” You grumbled, standing to your feet, dusting the grit from your knees; attention on him.

“It’s.. fine.” The teen spoke with uncertainty, his dark blue eyes meeting yours. Making you feel a little uneasy as the shock was quick to go, replaced by a stoic expression.

“Thank you for staying with her..?”

“Megumi.”

“Megumi! Thank you. I appreciate it.” You exclaimed with a bright smile. He didn’t really respond, simply giving you a nod.

“Y/N?”

You turn to the man that was approaching your little group, who just happened to be the one you ran into earlier. You couldn’t exactly pinpoint where you’ve seen him from or why he felt so familiar.

He was sporting a dark blue jacket with a high collar and matching slim pants, along with a pair of black dress boots.

But what stood out the most to you was the black blindfold he was wearing.

Not to mention the deathly familiar pure white hair.

Just as you were going to apologise for bumping into him, it hit you like a truck.

“Satoru?”

“I see you’ve met one of my students.” He gestured to Megumi but your eyes never left his form.

You’ve been waiting for weeks to hear from this man.

And here he was. Two ice creams in his hands. At the park.

All kinds of feelings surge through your body as all kinds of thoughts swirled in your head.

Realising this was definitely not the place to speak your mind. You don’t speak.

at least to him.

“Come on kids. We’re leaving.” You mumbled down to your siblings. Avoiding wherever Gojo’s glaze was.

“But-“ Akari tried to protest but you just gave her a stern look, quick to interrupt her; your hands pushing against their backs.

“I said we’re leaving.”

Satoru was shocked when he saw you, he saw you a mile away. Excitement was brewing in his chest at the thought he’d finally get to see you again, to the point he’d purposely allowed you to bump into him; lowering his infinity.

But to his surprise, you didn’t recognise him. At least not right away.

He wasn’t going to lie.

He was expecting a bigger reaction from you than what he got.

And he knew deep down, he was definitely the cause.

Work was busy, it was very hands on; more than normal. These special grade curses were really giving it to him; especially Sukana and from that he didn’t realise how much time had passed.

Satoru watched your retreating form, most definitely watching your plump ass swaying with every step.

“Who and what did you do to her?” Gojo’s not only student but dependent muttered to him; eyeing his guardian suspiciously.

“That’s offensive. I’m offended!” Megumi rolled his eyes annoyingly at the ‘adult’ and his deflection at the question.

Satoru sighed softly, the smile he was forcing dropping slightly.

“Completely nothing. That’s why.” The raven haired boy’s eyebrow raised as Gojo’s facade slipped away for a second.

“You two should probably make up. That little girl saw my shikigami. She could be in trouble.”

Gojo tapped his chin as thoughts ran through his head. He was obviously pretty good at sensing cursed energy but he didn’t sense any within you.

Were they your offspring?

Where was their dad?

“You’re right Gumi!” His feet moved before his torso, a hop to his step; pushing the ice cream cones he just purchased into Megumi’s hands.

“Where are you going? We are supposed to be looking for this special grade.” Megumi called out, watching his guardian bounce away.

“To make up! You’ve got this!” The raven huffed out before looking down at his shikigami companion; the living twin.

“Don’t call me that.” The boy whispered more to himself before poking his tongue out to lick at the frozen concoction.

“Gross. Rum raisin.”

You sit in your room with your head in your hands, your foot was bouncing against the hardwood floor.

You felt anger. Unnecessary anger. Shame.

His stupid handsome face kept flashing in your mind. It was driving you crazy.

You really shouldn’t be angry, it takes two to tango but is it wrong to expect someone to make the first move?

You’ve been fucked over and fooled too many times to count and with a guy like Gojo.. you want to take extra precautions.

Is that so wrong?

Why do you feel so stupid then?

“What’s wrong?” You quickly lift your head up and see Riku standing in your doorway, looking at you with almost worry.

“It’s nothing. Just have a headache.” You smile briefly, correcting your posture.

“It’s not what I said right? I’m sorry if it is.” His almost worrying expression deepened; his eyes glistening.

“No no. It’s not that. It’s really nothing.” Obviously it was something. You just didn’t want to explain you’d caught feelings for the guy you had a one night stand with to your 13 year old brother.

The boys frown deepened, knowing it wasn’t nothing. He knew you better than that but for his own safety, he wasn’t going to push it further.

The last thing he wanted to see was you upset over nothing that was obviously something.

“Where’s your sister?” You asked as you watched Riku make his way over to you, taking a seat beside you.

“Watching her dumb show.” The boy muttered with an annoyed tone. You smiled sweetly before bumping him softly with your elbow “You use to watch dumb shows too.”

Riku scoffed with a roll of his eyes “Yeah but not like hers. They are really dumb.” You giggled at your younger brother.

You hummed lightly, wrapping an arm around his back; pulling him closer, squeezing softly.

“Do you still think about Mum and Dad?” That previous feeling of sadness returned, your smile dropped slightly.

“Of course. Every now and again.” You spoke with a small voice.

“I don’t. Every-time I think about them, I get mad.” Your hand brushed through Riku’s jet black locks.

“What makes you mad?”

“That they left. They left us here.” Your head tilted to rest on the crown of his own. You weren’t going to lie, you were resentful. You use to be filled to the brim with anger.

So you understood completely where he was coming from but the more you grew into the person you are now.. the more responsible you became.

You had no room for unwarranted feelings. You had had kids to care for. You needed to be different. You needed to grow up.

Perhaps that’s where a lot of your problems stem from. Perhaps those feelings are still there, bottled up.

“Siddda.” The comfort of the silence was broken as your little sister appeared in your room. Pulling a slight grumble from Riku.

“Yes baby?” Her little hand pointed in the direction of the living room.

“There’s a weird man at the front door, he’s asking for you.” You perked an eyebrow at Akari before pushing Riku from you; gently.

“Both of you, stay here.” You muttered, pushing your sister further into your room.

Your feet hit the hardwood floors softly as you strided your way to the living room.

Immediately you halt as you see the ‘weird’ man now in your humble abode. Shivers ran up your spine as your eyes take him in.

“I thought she would recognise me, I’m a bit hurt.”

You straightened your posture, staring coldly at the man.

“Why would she?”

He tilted his head at you, a smirk resting on his lips. “She did love me.”

“She was two.”

He started to look around your home, taking small steps towards you. Making you feel on edge more than you already are.

“Nothings changed I see.”

“What do you want Zack?”

You huffed in annoyance, placing your hands on your hips as you stared daggers at your.. previous partner.

His smirk widened slightly as you almost prowled around your living room, his eyes never leaving yours. “Can’t I just visit an old friend?”

You removed your hands from your hips, crossing your arms across your chest instead, the annoyed expression deepening on your features. “We are not friends. If I remember correctly, we ended on bad terms.”

Zack let out a small breathless chuckle, his eyes glancing over at the entrance to the kitchen, seeing your flowers sitting on the counter but the archway. He changed the topic quick.

“I see you got my flowers.” His eyes landed back onto you.

“Your-“ Your eyes widened slightly, realising you had been wrong. They weren’t from Gojo. They were from HIM. “You sent them?”

He let out a small playful scoff “Of course. Who else?”

You couldn’t help be feel the pang of disappointment in your heart, your face showing that you were more offended than disappointed though, trying to hide the fact.

He lean forward a little that stupid smirk still on his lips “Did you think you got it from someone else? Please.”

“Who would send you flowers when you barely leave the house?” He continued to talk down to you, his tone carrying not only amusement but condescension.

“You need to leave.” You spoke in a stern tone, not in the mood for his antics, you didn’t know why he was here and frankly you couldn’t care less.

“Come on. I know you miss me.” Zack purred, starting to slowly make his way over to you, you couldn’t help yourself as your body recoiled slightly, taking a few steps back, not wanting him any closer.

Your breathing hitched as you felt your back hit the wall and Zack was now standing in front of you, you could practically smell his awful cologne that you always hated flowing off him in waves.

“See. I can see it. You still want me.”

You turned your nose up at him, unable to hide the disgust that started to rise inside you. “I don’t.” Unable to stop the growl.

Suddenly Zack slammed you against the wall, holding you against it by your shoulders, his smirk turning into something more.. sinister. A look you were all to familiar with.

You couldn’t help the hard flinch from your body, the sharp gasp that escaped your lips.

Zack’s eyes glimmered as he leaned in towards your ear “You’re mine. Always will be.” A cold shiver ran through you, fear slowly creeping through.

“What are you doing?” A younger voice broke through the tension, saving you from.. whatever the situation was leading too.

Both You and Zack turned towards the voice and you saw Riku standing there, Akari hiding behind him.

Zack forced a sickly sweet smile, looking back at you, releasing his hold on your shoulders; brushing down your arms to straighten your top.

“Just catching up kid.” You let out a small breath of relief as he pulled away, removing himself from your boundaries.

Zack sent you a small wink before turning on his heels and heading for the door but not before looking over his shoulders and saying “Enjoy the flowers Y/N.”

And with that he left.

Leaving you with unspoken feelings that had seemed to have never left, trauma that was never fixed.. that you didn’t think could be.

You turned to your siblings, forcing yourself to be strong. Strong for them but not for yourself..

Forcing a small shaky smile to them, ignoring the look Riku was giving you as he studied your demeanour. That boy was too smart for his own good.

“Let’s get dinner ready.”

After settling your siblings in, preparing dinner and tucking them in for the night.

You made your way out of your house, the bouquet of flowers in your hand, your feet heading straight towards the trash can.

Without any hesitation, you threw the flower to the bottom of the bin, slamming the lid shut and letting out a shaky breath.

You inhaled deeply, running a hand through your hair, dragging your hand down your face.

“Those from your boyfriend?”

Your eyes widened, your whole body jumping from the unexpected voice, you twirl around to face the man, being met with Satoru.

A sheepish grin plastered on his lips, his hands shoved into his pockets. He was dressed in casual attire, very different from what you witnessed him in earlier today. No blindfold. His glasses in place.

You couldn’t ignore how attractive he looked, or the way he made you feel just by being in his presence.

But yet you couldn’t help but feel uneasy, not because of him. (Though you couldn’t help still being pissed at him no matter how good he looked.) but from Zack. He really sent you in a spiral and you felt unsafe. On edge.

“Wha- what are you doing here?” You stuttered out, wrapping your arms around your body, he tilted his head as he took you in, if he noticed something was off.. he didn’t question it.

“So you can talk?” His smile widened just slightly, his eyes slowly trailing over your body, not bothering to hide his interest.

You huffed in annoyance, your eyes involuntarily rolling at his teasing tone. Not a word you heard from this man and he had the urge to tease you.

His smile softened lightly as he took in your annoyed stance.

“Look..” He started with a fleet of hesitation in his tone, taking a step forward. “I get that you’re.. pissed at me-“

You held your hand up to stop him from talking. “I don’t want to hear any excuses. I really don’t.” You made yourself move, heading back towards your porch. You felt guilty that you might’ve been a bit too harsh but you were feeling overwhelmed with.. everything.

Gojo wanted to reach out and grab you but refrained from it, instead choosing to follow you, his eyes briefly glancing over to your trash can.

“Y/N.” He called softly, following you to your front door.

“Please Satoru. I can’t handle this right now.” You murmured softly, going to open the front door.

Gojo couldn’t help but feel frustrated at your lack of patience, he normally could withstand most things, biting back with his own sense of humour and attitude.. but you were different. God you were different and he needed that.

He wanted you. Even if it was just after one night.. you made him feel.. normal. Like he could relax for once. Not being put on a constant pedestal.

“Please just talk to me. Let me explain.” He couldn’t help the hint of desperation that lured into his voice.

You turned to face him with a hard expression “I’m not some booty call okay? Someone you can just.. you can’t just say things like you did and just disappear!” You sighed deeply before continuing. He straightened his posture as he listened, his smile had been completely wiped from his face.

“I just.. I’ve been fucked over too many times, lead on.. hurt and I’ve always been a fool to fall for it..” His face soften at your words but he didn’t interrupt you, he didn’t force his way to control the moment like he knew he could.

“Sweetheart.. You’re more than that.” Gojo spoke softly, taking a few steps up the small stairs connected to your porch before he was standing in front of you, not invading your space like he was prone too, he wanted to pull you in.. not push you away.

“I didn’t lie. I meant everything I said. My life is.. hectic. Work keeps me on my toes, I never wanted you to think I was avoiding you and I’m so sorry that I made you doubt.” Gojo couldn’t believe the words that flowed from his mouth like it was the easiest thing in the world. It wasn’t a common affliction for him to be serious but he wanted you to know.. he needed you to know that he was more than interested in you.

“I won’t lie.. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about that night..” He smiled lightly; his hands clenching into fists trying to ignore the urge to reach out and grab you.

Throughout when he spoke, your hard expression turned more soft but you still felt like you had to be on guard, shaking your head lightly at his comment about your hookup.

He stepped closer to you, peering down at you and not in an intimidating way. You tensed slightly as he reached up to caress the side of your neck.

“You’re absolutely breathtaking and I’d be the fool to not fight for something I want.” You could hear the determination in his voice, his hand moving to your jaw to tilt your chin up at him.

“So what’s it going to be doll. Think you can give me another chance?”

You couldn’t help the small curl of your lips, as you shook your head lightly. “Is that a yes?” He pressed with a mischievous smile, stepping closer to you, his hand came up to caress your cheek gently.

“You better not make me look like a fool.” *You whispered softly, leaning into his touch.*

“Wouldn’t dream of it sweetheart.” Before you could say anything, his lips pressed to yours, moving in a slow and tender manner, your body seemed to react on it’s own; wrapping your arms around his neck as you kept up the pace.

Your eyes fluttered closed blissfully but Gojo’s however..

His bright blue eyes opened and glanced over slowly to your trash can..

His eyes narrowed slightly as his lips continued to move with yours, watching the cursed energy consume the can, swirling menacingly around it. That bouquet wasn’t just any bundle of flowers..

#chubby reader #gojo saturo #gojo x reader #jjk gojo #gojo satoru #jujutsu gojo #jujutsu kaisen #x fem!reader

105 notes · View notes

schemmentisimpasours · 2 months ago

Text

The Protectors

Summary: Ava and Mel step in to protect you from your mother in different ways.

Warnings: Mentions of toxic family relationships, hospital setting momentarily, word dyke used in poor context, cagna (bitch in Italian), stitches, physical violence, poly relationship[Use of nicknames such as sweet girl, baby girl, princess, angel, babe] Soft! Ava, Protector! Mel Hurt/Comfort

Pairing: Melissa x Reader, Ava x Reader, Avamel x Reader, Avamel

Thanks for the encouragement to write this @milfjuulpod and @panerasbox

Masterlist

--~--

You knew the walls of the hospital better than your own home at this point. You had spent your childhood here- learned to read here, cried here, became smaller chipping away at yourself until you were more manageable. Something that didn’t have to be dealt with because there were already so many other problems to deal with. Your own needs were buried so deep down that you weren’t sure you had any. Not really. You were merely a pawn in the game between life and death.

That had been what you thought before you had met them. Now you understand what it means to stand up for yourself. Especially to protect the ones you love. You walked into the room knowing you should wait but it was simpler to do it this way. By yourself, where the words only had to cut you instead of those you loved.

“Hi mom,” You said barely above a whisper.

She was stretched out on the hospital bed tv remote in hand scrolling through the channels, “About time you got here and alone for once.”

You bristled at the jab but tried to remain calm, “What did the doctor say?”

“Just that I am dying. Like I have been for years and no one seems to care to make me feel any better,” She shrugged not even looking at you.

“They have been trying Mom. They have ran every test in the book and you have done multiple second opinions..”

“So you are saying that I am crazy then?” Your mother hollered at you and you instantly flinched, “That I am just some looney toon making it all up in her head.”

“I never said that,” You replied even though it was a thought that had been lingering in your mind for years.

“You have always been a terrible liar,” She scoffed, “I swear to god they have been poisoning you. Turning you against me.”

“Who are the they you are referring to?” You questioned because honestly it could have been anyone at this point.

“Those women you drag with you everywhere.” “Oh my girlfriends. You know their names. I have been dating them for almost two years now.”

“Well whatever you want to call them. You used to be so obedient before they came around. Now you are full of snide comments and sassy looks. That is not the daughter I raised. A dyke who can’t decide between two women. A disgrace.”

You laughed bitterly, “You didn’t raise me. This hospital did. You were always making yourself sick so you could be here instead of out in the real world actually being a mother. You never wanted me in the first place. I ruined your good looks, career, and marriage. Isn't that what you used to tell me?”

“Don’t you dare talk to me like that little girl,” She yelled anger making her face beet red.

“It’s all fake mom. You make yourself sick so people will pay attention to you. You narcissistic bitch.”

You felt it hit before you even realized what was happening. The flower pot shattered against you a large slash going down your cheek. You immediately used your hand to cover the gash blood already running through your fingers.

“Go to hell,” Your mother said through gritted teeth.

“Save me a fucking seat.”

You rushed out of the room, tears already streaming down your face mixing with the blood from your cheek. You burst through the doors of the hospital as your breath began to quicken and your body began to shake. You sank down against the outside wall until you hit the ground with a thud. Knees curling into your chest, you placed your head down and let the panic attack take control. Nails dug into your biceps as you clutched yourself as tightly as you could. You rocked back and forth your back hitting the wall, propelling you back forward. You didn’t know how much time had passed before you heard them.

“I think that is her right there Red,” Ava pointed out an anxious undertone in her voice, “I thought you told her to wait for us before she went in.” “Yeah well, you know how her mom can be. She probably thought she was protecting us by going in alone,” Melissa hissed, the anger evident in her voice, “Looks like we are at stage five disaster already.”

They dropped on either side of you, and the smell of your girlfriends filling your nose. Stale cigarettes and vanilla screamed Melissa. Ava was a mixture of expensive flowery perfume and a touch of whiskey. Together they made a perfect balance of hard and soft that already eased your broken nerves. You were so far in your panic however that no words came out as they blocked you from the outside world.

“Angel, we are here now. We got you,” Melissa whispered, slotting her thigh behind you so that you couldn’t hit the wall anymore.

Ava laid her hands over yours, her thumbs running across the back of your palms, “Come on, sweet girl. Open up a little so we can breathe together.”

You tried to uncurl your fingers, but when it didn’t work, you merely shook your head and tried to rock again. You could feel the blood still running down your cheek seeping into your jeans. Melissa picked you up as if you were lighter than a feather placing you between her legs. Ava sat on the other side of you, wrapping her legs around Melissa to create a cocoon for you to hide in.

They held you like this for awhile. Ava’s head resting against your arms and Melissa’s against your back. With them protecting you like this you felt that you could conquer anything. They didn’t push you to open up, allowing you to uncurl in your own time. However, when you finally glanced up at Ava her eyes filled with a mixture of anger and fear.

“Baby girl you are bleeding, a lot.”

“What do you mean she is bleeding?” Melissa asked tipping you back just slightly.

At the sight of the blood still dribbling from your face a dark fire filled her normal green eyes. You had seen this side of Melissa before but only once. It had been right before she had flipped out hitting a man who had been attempting to flirt with you and Ava. She had lifted up the nearest chair slamming it down on his back when he didn’t get the hint that both of you weren’t interested. It had knocked him against the bar head hitting the top before he crumpled to the floor. That had been jealousy. This look on your girlfriend’s face was one of protective rage and somehow that seemed ten times scarier.

“This has gotten out of hand. Imma go give that filthy cagna a piece of my mind,” Melissa roared rising to her feet, “Take Y/N in to get that cut looked at. This won’t take long.”

“Red,” Ava said grabbing Melissa’s hand, “Make her fucking regret it.”

Melissa’s face turned into a wicked grin as she stalked back into the hospital. Ava placed a gentle hand on your uninjured cheek. She rubbed her thumb across it gently and you leaned into the contact. Pressing forward she placed a gentle kiss on your forehead.

“I am so sorry this happened to you baby girl,” She whispered and you could see the tears threatening to form.

Melissa was always the one to fight for the both of you. Her rage pouring over into a bear type protectiveness. Ava was the other side. A mask of hard armor but soft on the inside. The first to cry when the ones she loved got hurt. They balanced each other out in the simplest of ways and it made your heart swell.

“I am sorry I went in without you,” You mumbled filled with guilt.

“No baby girl, this isn’t on you. None of this is your fault,” Ava promised, “Now come on let’s get you checked out.”

Fifteen minutes later you were on a gurney getting stitches with Ava holding your hand. Quiet tears were falling down her face for every time you flinched in pain. As the last stitch was being put in Melissa came sauntering over a security guard following close behind her.

“See I told you Danny boy. My girls are right here. As soon as they patch up my Angel I'll leave,” She said wrapping a protective arm around Ava before kissing the top of her head.

“Okay but you have to leave immediately after Schemmenti. I'm only letting this slide cause that woman has been terrorizing the whole floor for weeks,” He relented.

Melissa promised she would and then turned back to you, “Always good to have friends in high places. How you feel Angel?”

“Better now that you both are here,” You said and flinched when you went to smile.

Melissa wiped away the tears from Ava’s face, “See princess she is okay. We got her.”

The doctor gave follow up instructions to Ava and Melissa who listened intently. Ava was scrawling notes on her phone. She wanted to make sure she didn't miss a single thing. You left with Ava and Mel each holding your hand their bodies pressed close to your side. Sandwiched between them you felt safe and like the world wasn't going to crumble in.

“Princess can drive you home and I'll get some supplies for dinner. I'll make your favorite,” Melissa instructed and went to kiss your cheek but stopped, “Of course it is my cheek that is hurt. Guess I'll have to kiss you somewhere else instead.”

She placed a soft kiss to your forehead, then to your nose, and finally your lips causing you to giggle. She pulled away just enough to send you a smile that melted your heart, “There she is.”

You blushed, “You know I can drive myself home right?”

“No you can’t,” Your girlfriends said in unison.

“Let us take care of you sweet girl,” Ava replied with no room for argument.

You relented and handed your keys to Ava. Melissa gave Ava a goodbye kiss promising to be home soon. Both of you watched until she disappeared around the corner before you navigated to your own car. Ava opened your door leaning to buckle you in before kissing your nose. During the entire car ride she gripped on your thigh. It was like she was trying to ground herself into you. Making sure you wouldn't disappear before her eyes.

“Babe,” You said as you pulled into the house you all shared, “I'm really okay, I promise.”

“She hurt you… physically harmed you. And we weren’t there to protect you,” Ava shook her head, “We promised we would always protect you.”

“You are protecting me,” You promised leaning over to kiss her, “With you and Melissa I will always be safe.”

Ava grinned, “Wanna dance it out?”

“With you? Always.”

Which is how Melissa found both of you when she returned arms full of groceries. The coffee table was pushed to the side allowing for a dance floor in the living room. Ava’s music spilling from the TV. Nothing was louder however then the laughter that came from you and Ava as you danced and jumped around in the clear space. She smiled at the scene before her heart so full with love that it felt lighter.

“Red!” Ava smiled, “Put down those groceries and come dance.”

She didn't even go to the kitchen just dropped all the bags onto the couch before taking your extended hand. You pulled her close to you Ava cirling around behind you. And pressed close between them you knew that you would be okay. No matter the day. Or situation you had the loves of your life. Hard and soft. Yin and yang. Ava and Melissa.To protect and cherish you.

#ava coleman #melissa schemmenti #abbott elementary #AvaMel #ava coleman x melissa schemmenti #melissa schemmenti x you #melissa schemmenti x reader #melissa schemmenti x original female character #ava coleman x you #ava coleman x reader #ava coleman x original female character #the protectors #protective! melissa #soft! ava

120 notes · View notes

ofstarsandvibranium · 2 months ago

Text

Nowhere Land: Part 2

Fandom: Marvel

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x F!Reader

Summary: A handsome stranger comes into your workplace and makes you rethink your life choices.

A/N: Sebastian Stan, the man that you are…

Part 1 | Bucky Barnes Masterlist

Bucky had seemed like a figment of your imagination. You knew him for less than a day, but he held a lasting impact on you. Every time an unfamiliar car drove past the diner, you thought it was him.

You scolded yourself every time because why are you letting a man, a practical stranger, get you all riled up?

You did your best to push any thought of him to the back of your mind. You found new distractions hobbies to keep your mind focused on other things. You took up crocheting and embroidery, thanks to a group of women who had their Crafting Club meeting every Sunday at the diner after church.

You'd serve them breakfast and coffee and listen in on any drama and gossip they were exchanging when it was slow.

They had been trying to teach you crochet for months, but you weren't very interested. Now with a certain blue eyed brunette plaguing your mind, you finally took them up on their offer.

It's quite fun, actually. Keeping count and focusing on the pattern occupied your mind instead of a certain someone.

It'd been three months since Bucky came and went through the small town.

And you were slowly forgetting about him.

______________________

It was nearing midnight when there was a knock at the door. You were already on high alert considering that you were up late watching a true crime documentary that Adell recommended to you.

You grabbed the bat you always have near the door as well as the little knife you have attached to your keys.

You look through the peephole and see a man's back facing you.

"You better get the fuck away from my door or I'm calling the police!" you holler through your door and the man immediately turns around.

It's unmistakable. Even with the dim lighting of your front porch, you know it's him. It's Bucky and he doesn't look so good.

"Shit," you mumble to yourself and immediately pull your door open, "What the hell happened to you?!" you whisper-yell as you pull him inside your home, hoping none of your neighbors saw him and called the police.

Now, standing in your home, you get a better look at him. He looks a lot more disheveled than when you first saw him in the diner.

He's wearing a black t-shirt and leather jacket. His face is littered with cuts and bruises. His tshirt is ripped in a few places.

You look at him in disbelief, "Dude, did you get jumped? Also, why are you here and do you know how late it is?" You place your hands on your hips giving him a stern look, reminiscent of an annoyed mother.

Bucky clears his throat, "To answer your first question, I was in a fight. To answer your second question, you were on the way from another job and for the third, I know. I know it's late and I'm sorry but the motel said they're full because-"

"Of the Strawberry Festival. Yeah." You let out a deep breath, "Was the fight you got into...work related?"

"The less you know about what I do the better."

"So it definitely doesn't have to do with you kicking butt alongside Captain America or anything?"

Bucky cocks a brow, silently questioning you. You shrug, "Listen, I wasn't going to but curiosity got the best of me. I didn't know your last name so I just searched up 'Bucky' and 'Captain America' and I saw a bunch of articles and went down a rabbit hole. So yeah. I know who you are and what you do...kind of. Also, how did you manage to only serve less than half a term in Congress?"

Bucky pinches the bridge of his nose and groans, "It's a long story and it's fine. I don't really blame you for searching me up. Anyway, all this," he gestures to his cut up face, "is due to work like that. Anyway, I'm really tired and kind of in pain. I know I showed up unannounced but I'd really appreciate it if you'd help me out."

"Yeah, alright," you say and turn on your heel. As you head to your bedroom you holler, "Take a seat on the couch! I'll grab some supplies!"

When you enter your bedroom, you grab an old sleep shirt you're hoping will fit Bucky. You then go to your bathroom and pull out your first aid kit from under your sink.

"It's fine. It's chill. Just the guy you've been thinking about for months is back and asking for your help and he's also kind of an Avenger and probably was just beating up bad guys prior to-"

"Serpents," Bucky's sudden appearance made you jump, causing you to drop some of the supplies you were pulling out.

You begin picking up band-aids and gauze when you ask, "Serpents? You were fighting snakes?"

Bucky kneels to help you, a smirk on his lips, "No. I was fighting the group Serpent. A criminal organization. I was fighting them, specifically." He hands you the band-aids he picked up.

"Thought that stuff was classified."

"You gonna tell anyone?"

You shake your head, "Then I'm fine. I also didn't want you imagining that I was fighting aliens or something. That was a one time thing...hopefully." He helps you stand.

You take note of how close he's standing and you find yourself wanting him to wrap his arms around you, pulling you in and-

"I can clean myself up," he says breaking your little fantasy in the making.

"Oh, uh, okay," you set the items onto the bathroom counter, "You hungry? I have some leftover pizza I can heat up for you."

"I'd appreciate it."

"Beer?"

"Please."

"Got it," you squeeze past him in the doorway and rush to your kitchen.

When you're in the kitchen, heating up the leftover pizza, you feel very...nervous. For months you've been hoping to see Bucky again, but now that he's here...what the fuck do you even do? Obviously, you're going to help him, but what do you say?

Do you tell him that you've been thinking about him since that night at the bar? Or is that too weird?

"Thanks for the shirt," Bucky says as he enters your small kitchen.

You look over your shoulder and give him a nod, "Of course," you plate the pizza and hold it out for him.

He takes it and sits at your small kitchen table, taking a swig from the beer you opened for him.

You lean against the counter, arms crossed over your chest, "Sooo how long are you in town for?" You wait as he chews his food.

Bucky clears his throat and washes down his food with more beer. There's a look in his eye and you're not sure what it is, "I, uh, actually need to lay low for a bit, so thought I'd stay in town for a few days."

"Where do you plan on staying?"

Bucky sighs and runs his metal hand through his hair, "Was hoping someone would be leaving tomorrow so I can check in at the motel."

You can't help but snort, "Yeah, no. That's not happening. People tend to stay for several days for the Strawberry Festival. We have a new event every day, so people don't want to miss out."

"I'll just sleep in my car then."

You shake your head, "Bucky, you can stay here for the time being."

"I don't want to impose more than I already have."

"Too late," you say with a playful smirk, "Seriously, it's fine. I'm happy to help. Besides, you're helping me by bringing a little excitement to my life."

Bucky softly smiles at you, "I thought you didn't care for excitement anymore."

"Never said that. Just didn't like the busy life that the city gave me. It's chill and laid back here, but I could use something more than town gossip to keep me on my toes."

He chuckles, "Well, I guess I'll be happy to be of service. But, uh-" he looks around your place, "You don't have a partner or anyone that will be upset about me being here?"

You shake your head, "Nope. Just me, myself, and I. Also, you can take my bed. My couch is a pullout, but not as comfy."

"You don't have to do that. I can-"

"No, arguments. I can't in good conscience let a hundred something year old man like yourself sleep on that couch."

With a smirk on his lips, Bucky narrows his eyes at you, "Exactly how much research did you do on me?"

You make a motion to zip your lips and you leave the kitchen, leaving him to laugh to himself.

#bucky barnes #bucky barnes x reader #bucky x reader #bucky barnes imagine

100 notes · View notes

magicalbats · 1 year ago

Text

Oh, Captain (Luffy x reader)

Rating: R-18+

Word Count: 5222

Warnings: Afab!reader, gendered language, noncon, physical coercion, outdoor sex, inappropriate use of 5th Gear

A/N: My second ever commission and the lovely donor was kind enough to give me permission to post it for everyone else to read. Thank you for a great experience, @avidbroswer!! 🩷🩷🩷

⭐

Let’s help Luffy, they’d said.

We’re a crew, they’d said. Family.

You don’t feel very much like family when you’re running for your life from the very captain you’d sworn loyalty to. Or at least, you’re pretty sure that the strange figure with white nimbus cloud hair is your captain. You’d watched it happen from a (questionably) safe distance, when he suddenly transformed in a surge of sparking static electricity that made your skin crawl like it was trying to escape from your bones but it’s still hard to believe that it was really him. Even having seen the reality of it with your own two eyes doesn’t make it any easier to accept.

Luffy was supposed to be a dark haired, dark eyed youth in the prime of his life. Not this uncanny version of him that giddily laughs with boisterous amusement while he ping pongs about so violently within the craggy mess of scorched earth in the wake of his battle with Kaido that you can feel the massive chunks of rock slamming into the ground as much as you can hear it. One after another, from the left and then the right, they just keep falling in an almost continuous rain of rubble and ruin. The resulting shockwaves very nearly take you off your feet more than once but you force yourself to keep running even when your sore legs scream in protest, aching from the exertion. It was the only choice you really had at this point.

And it’s not lost on you that this is technically your own fault for getting so close to the fight but you’d wanted to help. All that talk of family and crew, and unwavering allegiance to the Straw Hats had clearly infected your brain because you’d rushed straight into the danger zone despite knowing good and well that you were the only one close enough to make it in time. Now you were the one who needed help and it wasn’t going to arrive soon enough to do you any good.

What an idyllic fool you’d been.

“Ah!” You suddenly get tripped up in all the rocky debris laying across the ground and fall to your knees with a seething hiss. Your palms come back scraped where they’d shot out to catch you but you’ve managed to avoid taking the brunt of it to the face. Thank the stars for life’s smallest miracles.

Panting heavily, you just sit there amongst the broken wreckage and detritus for a harrowingly long beat, trying to catch your breath. You can still hear the chaotic destruction of Luffy — or the man who had once been Luffy — bouncing around like a rubber ball behind you, completely unimpeded by the laws of gravity or common sense. It sounded like he was having a blast.

Maybe that was good. Maybe he hadn’t even noticed you yet, so lost within the mess of demolished land and too tiny a speck to even draw his attention. You had a chance to escape then, if that was the case.

Any such hopes quickly fizzle out when his uproarious hooting and hollering abruptly rushes towards you, getting louder and louder until your eardrums start to vibrate. You suck in a sharp, nauseated gasp and slap your hands over your ears as you twist around to look behind you. Just in time to watch Luffy sail overhead like a shooting white comet. The kickback from his high velocity speed hits you seconds later, tearing a shriek from your mouth when the wind hits you full force and as solid as any wall.

Too busy ducking down with your head between your knees to protect yourself from the sting of flying rocks, you don’t get to see how he manages to pivot his momentum mid air and land a couple hundred yards away. You hear it though. You feel the shock of impact too, when it races through the ground to make the rubble underneath you tremble. It goes quiet then, and unnaturally still. Suddenly all you can hear are your own labored gasps.

You hesitate to do it but, realizing you have no other option, you slowly lift your face to peer out over all the fallen debris. Standing at a distance, Luffy just looks at you with a fiercely manic edge in his now golden-yellow eyes that makes your veins ice up. You’re more certain than ever that this cannot be your captain. He should have been giving you the usual bright faced, happy go lucky grin he always did when he inexplicably came out on top against all the odds that were stacked against him. Not this — viscous leer of victory.

But if this wasn’t Luffy then who in the seven seas was it?

“Have you come to celebrate with me?”

His voice isn’t quite the same either. More raspy, like the weight of immense power flowing through him was putting strain even on his vocal cords. You don’t think you like that any more than you like the way he’s eyeing you up as if you were a stuffed pig on a roasting spit. Even for his bottomless pit of an appetite, you’d never seen him look at another person quite like that.

Cautiously slow, you straighten up out of your defensive huddle. Work to get your feet under you without taking your attention off him for even a moment and then stand so you can prepare to … what, run again? A lot of good that had clearly done you.

“I don’t think it’s time to celebrate just yet.” You tell him softly. “We need to find the other Straw Hats. Make sure they’re all okay. You still remember them … don’t you, Luffy?”

Your emotional plea only succeeds in giving him a momentary pause. “But I have so much energy left. I just want to dance and shout, and jump into the air! You’ll join me, won’t you?”

He takes a step towards you, a rather aggressive one at that, and you quickly back up. Something told you if you didn’t agree to go along with this he was going to try and force you into joining in on whatever constituted his idea of merrymaking. Unfortunately you weren’t sure if you’d survive that, given the state of all the crumbled boulders littering the ground on this now desolate stretch of land.

“No, Luffy. Not right now. We have to - -“

With an abrupt jerk, he lurches forward as if to launch himself at you. His rubbery legs momentarily struggle for traction on the ground, as if they couldn’t quite decide what consistency they wanted to be, but you don’t plan on sticking around long enough to find out. Feeling like you’ve forgotten how to breathe, you spin around and make a mad dash for it, barreling straight into a dead sprint.

It’s a resounding effort in futility.

You don’t even make it three whole steps before he slams into your back hard enough to take you right off your feet.

There’s a split second moment of shock at how fast he’d managed to close the distance, and then the ground is rushing up at your face again.

That dizzying blur of vertigo inducing free fall coupled with the way your vision tilts on its axis very nearly has you spewing your guts right then and there. But if Luffy picks up on the dire, sickened tinge coloring your wounded grunt he certainly doesn’t act it. He just flings his arms around your middle, alarming in their fleshy elasticity and yet still familiar to you, then hauls you up against his front before you can slam into the rocks.

Everything happens much too fast for you to keep up with any of it. Your brain is reeling, still trying to recover from the impact of his body colliding with yours and the subsequent head rush that followed. So stunned you can’t even find the wherewithal to protest his treatment of you let alone try to fight your way free. Unable to do anything else, you simply allow your limbs to bonelessly flail when he takes a handful of eager steps forward with you in his arms.

In the next moment Luffy spins you out away from him, snagging your wrist to stop your momentum and make you jerk to another abrupt standstill. The yank on your shoulder causes it to pop, splintering pain racing up your arm as you cry out. He doesn’t care though. He either doesn’t care or he doesn’t notice, because he just pulls you right back into him again, hard enough to make you collapse with a teeth rattling jolt against his chest.

“Come on!” He laughs, loud and frenzied, his hold on you much too tight where it’s shackled around your wrist. “Dance with me! Aren’t you having fun?”

Teeth gnashing to fight back the nausea, you bring your uncaptured hand up and brace it against his shuddering frame. You’re more than just a little surprised to find his heartbeat hammering out a sharp, almost violent staccato against his ribcage, so powerful you can feel it thrumming through his skin. It reminds you of an endless procession of war drums. Too many to count and impossibly loud, their ferocity equally intimidating and awe inspiring.

What in the world had happened to him?

You don’t have the privilege of lingering on that question for very long. Couldn’t afford to, as you try to get your tired legs situated under you again so you can stand on your own. “You’re hurting me, Luffy. We don’t have time for this right now. Just let me go. Please.”

But he doesn’t even seem to register what you’re saying as a plea at all.

A snickering, raspy laugh rattles up out of him, and you vehemently push at his narrow chest with your uncaptured hand. Shove him as hard as you can. He still doesn't budge though, simply reaching up to snag that wrist too so he can forcefully spin you around in his arms. You feel sick with the rush of motion coupled with the fatigue and throbbing pain in your body but there’s nothing you can do to stop it. He’s too strong, too wild, too lost in whatever manic high he’s slipped into after his fight with Kaido.

Tightening his grip to lock you against his front, Luffy moulds himself to the line of your back with such an unnatural, rubbery motion that you find yourself fighting not to wretch even as his mouth finds your neck. He nuzzles at you for a brief moment, just brushing his lips over your jackhammering pulse before angling his nose towards the spot just behind your ear. The breath he draws is slow and savory, and he seems to hold it in his lungs for an unnecessarily long time.

When he at last sighs out, displacing some of the loose flyaways in your hair, an unmistakable rumble low in his chest accompanies it. “Mmm, you smell good. Like victory.”

What the hell was that supposed to mean? “Luffy, just listen to me … don’t do this. I - I don’t really understand what's happened to you but we can figure it out together. We’ll fix it. I promise. But you need to let me go or - -“

“Let you go? But we’re having so much fun. I want to have even more fun with you but you’re not a fighter, not like he was. And you don’t want to dance with me either.”

He sounds dangerously close to pouting when he says that last bit and you give a halfhearted twist in his hold, testing for any slack. It’s no good though. For as little effort as he seemed to be putting into it, his arms were like iron shackles where they’re criss crossed over your body. Dammit.

“Why?” You seethe in frustration and fast mounting panic. “Why won’t you just go back to normal, Luffy? This isn’t like you!”

His frame shakes behind you with the giggles that rise within him, making his whole body vibrate like a mercilessly shaken soda bottle. It quickly grows, rapidly multiplying and expanding until he at last throws his head back with a cackling peel of laughter aimed up at the sky. It’s much too close to your ear and deafeningly loud, reigniting your desperation to get away from him, but your wild thrashing just causes him to laugh even harder. Like he found it hilarious that you were scared and trapped against him.

“I can’t!” He howls, belly laughing so ferociously it makes you jerk in his hold. “I can’t go back until I’ve used up all of this energy! It feels like I’m going crazy but it feels good too! Amazing even! I’ve never experienced anything like it before! I want to keep going but you can’t fight and you won’t dance with me … but there’s something else we can do together, isn’t there?”

“What are you ta - -“

He releases you so suddenly you don’t even realize you’re crumpling to the ground until your butt has already hit the rocks, surprising a yelp out of you. Fresh pain immediately races up from your backside in a blinding starburst and you outright hiss as you gingerly start to angle yourself onto your hip in hopes of taking some of the pressure off of where it hurts the most. You don’t quite make it that far though.

Luffy’s hands are suddenly on your shoulders, shoving you forward to sprawl out rather inelegantly on your front. He follows you down, pinning you to the destroyed ground with his body weight, and you immediately start to panic in earnest. Your captain didn’t look like much more than a lanky beanpole at first glance but he was so densely packed with muscle that he felt like a sack of bricks on top of you. It makes it hard to breathe and the quickened, gasping lungfuls of air you suck in don’t exactly help. Your chest constricts painfully tight as you struggle against him, forgetting all logic and reason in your blind desperation to get away from him.

He doesn’t even seem to notice though, still just as unbudging sprawled out over top of you as he’d been when the two of you were standing. No amount of kicking your legs or bucking up underneath him even gives him pause, and his greedy hands fumble down to your waist where they squeeze tight enough to rip a hurt shriek from your throat. This doesn’t cut through the manic haze spurring him on either. He doesn’t even waver.

“What are you — stop that! Have you lost your mind!”

“I’m sorry.” He snickers, not sounding very sorry at all as he shoves his face into the crook of your neck again. Another deep, savory inhale. Another rumbling exhale right against your pulse. The faintest growl that trails afterward is new though and you go painfully still under him, hardly even daring the blink despite all the grimy dust kicked up in your desperate fight for freedom.

You’d never, ever heard such a sound come out of him before. It scares you perhaps most of all, and you’d seen many a frightening and unsettling thing since stepping foot into Onigashima. Somehow this just really took the cake though.

“I’m sorry,” He says it again. Contradicting this, his callous worn fingers dip into the hem of your pants and start to tug at them, jostling you with each insistent pull. “I’m sorry, heheee. I just can’t help myself. If I can’t have you I don’t know what I’ll do. You’ll help me calm down, won’t you?”

Your mind struggles to process that. He was asking you to help him? Not with words or medicine, or even the endless supply of food he would have otherwise asked for had he been in his right mind. He wanted your body.

So that’s what it was then. What it all boiled down to.

If he couldn’t fight you and you refused to dance with him then that left only one other option. He was going to fuck it out of his system. Anything to get rid of all the excess energy running through his body, making him vibrate like a lit fuse on top of you. It made a certain amount of sense, you supposed, but that didn’t mean you had to like it.

Curling your hands into tight fists against the rocks, numb to the abrasive sting, you draw a rattling breath to center yourself. It doesn’t do much in the way of good. “Please don’t do this.”

It’s like he doesn’t even hear you, a grunt of victory puffing out of him when he finally manages to get your pants tugged down over the curve of your ass.

“Please.” You gasp, the sound wet and faltering.

Completely ignoring you now, Luffy reaches further down to fumble with something lower while his opposite hand possessively curls around your hip to keep you in place. You hiccup rather sadly at the distant sound of rustling clothes, almost completely lost under the violent pounding of blood in your ears, but there’s no missing the fleshy nudge against the back of your thigh that soon follows. It leaves a sticky smear where it touches you, inspiring an eruption of horrified goosebumps in its wake.

You don’t have to look to know what’s touching you. The innate knowledge of what’s happening and who is responsible for this paralyzing fear that grips your aching heart in a chokehold is horrible and suffocating all at once. Stinging tears spring up and well in the backs of your eyes but you clench your teeth to try and stifle the terrified wail threatening to claw its way up your throat, knowing it would only sound hysterical.

On one hand you almost couldn’t believe this was really happening, even though the reality of the situation was staring you right in the face. It just seemed almost too implausibly awful to be real.

But on the other, Luffy wasn’t exactly known for his self control or restraint. You knew this. Had even found it charming at one point or another, so you brace yourself for the worst. It just might be the only thing that ends up saving you.

“Captain - -“

“I’m sorry.”

He’s suddenly between your legs, pressing up into you from behind. You go ramrod stiff against him, your whole body clenching in genuine distress, but it does very little to stop him. Like he’s done it a million times before, or perhaps thanks to the instinctive muscle memory bestowed upon every man with a working cock, he pushes right in on your entrance until cunt slips start to part under the pressure. A thin, tremulous groan escapes him at the first kiss of your hot guts against the tip and then he just keeps pushing. Even when your muscles tense up and try to keep him out. Even when he meets a great deal of resistance as your body tries its best to reject him. If anything he almost seems to take it as a challenge the same way he would another combatant or a roadblock standing between him and his goals.

In this case his goal is clearly to sink himself in you right down to the hilt, and he just puts more effort into his cause the more you try to fight it. Leans his weight into you until it feels like your poor cunt is taking the full brunt of his mass. The resulting stretch of your inner sleeve is painful and drawn out, taking much longer than it otherwise would have had you been even slightly prepped for this.

Your mouth hinges open but nothing comes out for a prolonged moment as the tears break loose to streak down your face. It feels like he’s tearing you in half! Either he was much bigger than you’d assumed he’d be or by virtue of how tightly your interior walls were squeezing him — or even some terrible combination of the two — it was like you were being split down the middle. You couldn’t even breathe through the choking discomfort of it and a threadbare, sobbing little mewl dislodges from your throat when he at last manages to shove himself past that first barrier.

Full penetration is much easier for him to achieve after that but it’s no less painful, and you cry out when he snaps his hips forward once, twice, and finally lodges his length the rest of the way in on the third. A pleased huff slips out of him as he settles on top of you, a fresh wave of giggles quickly following suit. It was like he’d gone mad. So wrapped up in the raving power that had turned his hair white that he can only laugh about it even while he’s buried balls deep in your body.

That short lived pause is all the respite you get though and Luffy is soon moving, rutting into you with quick, sharp little jabs up into your guts. You shriek at the top of your lungs, clawing at the ground while you kick out behind you, but he ignores this the same as everything else. Lying prone and trapped under him, all you can do is take it.

“Waah — why are you doing this, Luffy? It hurts! If … if the others find out about this - -“

“I know, hahaaa. I know. I’m sorry, but I can’t stop. You feel … this feels amazing! Almost as good as fighting Kaido did!”

You seethe at that, trying your damndest not to get caught up on it right now but that proves to be more than a little difficult. He really didn’t see any difference between fucking and fighting? Somehow that seemed so typically him, and you think you would have probably joined him in laughing about it under better circumstances.

But better circumstances wouldn’t have found you being roughly jostled back and forth on the ground by his eager, jack rabbit thrusts. The motion of his hips lacks any and all refinement with no technique to speak of, and yet that doesn’t stop you from seeing stars every time his cock blindly rams into your upper wall. It punches the air from your lungs and materializes out of your mouth in the form of heaving, strained bleats of distress that quickly climb to a higher and higher pitch with each second that goes by. Not for the first time today, you feel like you really might throw up.

“Ooh, that’s …” He suddenly gasps, lets out a half strangled groan, and drives himself into you even harder. Faster. The force of his pelvis slapping against your upturned ass rapidly grows to a steady, almost constant blur of stinging swats — plap, plap, plap, plap — and you shriek at the rapidly swelling pressure on your gut. “Ooh, that’s good. That’s good! It feels so good! I - I can’t - -“

Without warning, your pussy abruptly floods with wet, sticky warmth. He hadn’t even given you a chance to beg for him to pull out.

Your eyes widen to the approximate size of dinner plates but he just keeps pistoning his hips even as the rest of his shuddering frame gives a series of little jerks to thoroughly empty his balls into you. He shows no signs of slowing down or tiring any time soon though, his limitless energy evidently far outpacing his obvious lack of experience.

It’s a hard thing to wrap your reeling head around just how quickly everything has happened and yet there’s no mistaking it for what it is. The sensation is completely foreign to you but you innately understood it for what it represented, what it could potentially mean for your future. You’re not half as relieved to have it done and over with as you are terrified of what it meant.

Even more confounding, however, is that it doesn’t so much as make Luffy slow down let alone stop now that he’s painted your inner sleeve a thick, creamy white. Not the orgasm itself which, considering how much he fills you up, should have thoroughly drained him for the time being, nor the possible repercussions of allowing himself to shoot off inside of you like that. He just keeps going without a care in the world, like it wasn’t his problem and he still had more than enough stamina to keep up the harried pace he’d settled into for the foreseeable future. The only sign of it burning up any of his energy at all is the slightly labored quality his breathing takes on, but that’s it.

Realizing that this ordeal is still far from over, you give your body a twist and try to angle your cunt away from the constant attack of his cock. “H - hold on a minute, what … aagghhh, what are you doing, Luffy? You - - you can’t just cum inside like that, you idiot!”

“Can’t stop! Heheehe, I can’t, I can’t, not when you keep squeezing me like that!”

All but wheezing at the intense pleasure of thrusting into the sticky mess he’s made of you, Luffy presses himself flush against your sweaty back and circles his arms around your middle. You brace to shove him off, or at least try to, but you don’t quite make it that far.

Catching you completely off guard, he yanks you up against him and practically throws himself back onto the ground. The sudden lurch lodges your stomach in your throat, and you let out a frazzled scream as you land on top of him. That he cushions the impact with his rubbery body only comes as a slight relief when you were struggling just to get your bearings straight, disoriented and stunned in the aftermath of his impulsive decision when you unexpectedly find yourself blinking up at the sky.

You start to pull yourself upright, wincing, only to quickly realize he’s still got one arm looped around your waist to keep you held in place on top of him. The other is — you gasp when you glance down to see him already fisting his cock in hand, guiding it back to your entrance where it had slipped out in that rush of movement. It’s still achingly stiff and unrelenting, like he hadn’t already spilled his seed in you only moments ago, and your heart painfully wrenches with the fresh wave of dread that comes over you.

“W - wait, please don’t - -“

The head of him finds your cunt, pressing back up into you again, and you outright sob when he mercilessly snaps his hips to impale you on that stiff length once more. You sway unsteadily at the fresh stretch, trying to decide if it’s better or worse in this position, but gravity soon proves itself your enemy when the weight of you on top of him firmly sinks his cock even further into you than before. It feels like he’s tickling at your ribcage like this, but all you can do is give a wounded little mewl and try to steady yourself. Undaunted, he reaches up to tug your pants the rest of the way off.

“Luffy,” Sniffling sadly, you fight him as much as you can in your physically exhausted state but it’s no use. Your bottoms come off to leave you bare and exposed from the waist down, sitting upon his cock like a whore on her rightful throne.

The tears quickly start up again, streaking hot tracks down your flushed, sweaty face while he gets himself situated underneath you. His hips lift, nudging you just a pinch higher so he can brace his feet underneath him while his hands come around to anchor around your love handles. Then, he’s moving again.

Completely unconcerned by your crying, Luffy flexes his legs to thrust up into you and the same fleshy slap as before quickly rises loud in the air again. Plap, plap, plap, plap. The wet squelch of your seeded cunt sucking him in deep on every upward plunge joins in, adding to the obscene cacophony of noises even as you toss your head back to sob at the sky. You can hear him grunting underneath you, clearly enjoying himself quite a bit, but you couldn’t say the same. Your body was already a sore, achy mess of bruises and scrapes, and this certainly wasn’t helping. You were just getting more and more tired by the minute.

“Nnghhnnn, please, captain. Please don’t cum inside again, I … I’m begging you!”

The only response he gives is a low, rumbling groan that seems to bleed into you and reverberate endlessly inside your belly, making you squeeze your thighs together as if to block him out. But of course it doesn’t work. Given the way he stutters over a raspy hiss of your name he actually seems to like the way it makes your walls tighten around him, unintentionally though it may have been. There was really nothing you could have done to dissuade or stop him once he’d set his mind to something, and it seemed he very adamantly had his sights set on using your cunt until his energy reserves finally wore out.

Distantly, you wonder how long that will actually take.

“You’re mine, you’re mine, you’re mine,” He chants underneath you, again and again, even when his hands tighten around your hips to guide you into bouncing right along with him. Having no other choice, you snifflingly spread your legs wide and brace your feet on the ground, moving with him despite the throbbing ache in your muscles. “Mine, mine, mine. My prize. My treasure. My woman!”

He viciously slams his pelvis up at the end, further punctuating his claim on you, and the sharp stab of his cock rips a wild shriek from your mouth. “N - no, captain, please! I can’t — I don’t want it! Not like this! You’re not … aaghnn, you’re not Luffy! You’re not!”

The only response he gives is a deranged little laugh that makes his cock jump where it’s wedged inside you. That push on your upper wall makes the tension running through you double and then triple, your heaving gasps coming a little quicker now even as his hands travel up your body. You can’t stop him like this when your own were propped behind you along his flexing stomach to help you maintain your balance in this precarious position. It’s not hard to figure out what his intentions are though, and you screw your eyes shut so you don’t have to watch him grab hold of your top.

A deafening riiiip tears through the air when he shreds it, the poor cotton helpless before his far greater strength. He leaves it hanging from your shoulders in tattered pieces as your tits bounce free, the stiffened tips already aching and strained long before he greedily palms at them like a starved man clutching at a lifeline. The blinding friction of his calloused palms and fingers on your teats makes your cunt spasm around him and you wail, screaming for someone, anyone to save you from your captain.

Unfortunately for you, help was still a long ways off and Luffy wasn’t even close to running out of steam.

⭐

Crossposted: here

#one piece #monkey d. luffy #luffy x reader

181 notes · View notes

porcelainseashore · 10 months ago

Text

Coffee & Secrets (1)

Series Masterlist

Pairing: Rookie Cop! Leon x Barista! Fem! Reader

Summary: As a cozy coffee shop owner in Raccoon City, you’re no stranger to visitors seeking comfort, quiet, and warmth. When a rookie officer named Leon finds a kindred spirit in you, it sets in motion a chain of events that forever changes the course of your lives. An alternate universe set in Resident Evil 2 Remake and inspired by the game Coffee Talk.

Content & Warnings: Canon divergence, coffee shops, romance, slow burn, strangers to lovers, idiots in love, fluff, slice of life, swearing

Author's Note: The biggest heartfelt thank you to my friends @alibellerosetta and Cameron who beta’d this fic + all those who reached out and supported me in DMs! ❤️ P.S. There may be spoilers for Coffee Talk ahead, so read at your own discretion.

AO3 Link

Chapter 1: Arrival

September 30, 1998. It was heavy rain and howling winds, but your shop was still open, like a beacon of light in the darkness. A flash of lightning and a high beam panned across the window. The rumbling sound of an engine came to a halt.

Could that be your first customer of the day?

Your question was answered when a young, red-haired woman in a matching leather jacket burst through the front door, triggering the welcome chime that signaled a new arrival. She was drenched like a drowned rat, helmet tucked under her arm as she made her way over to the counter tentatively, her eyes darting back and forth at the empty space before her.

“Hey, uh, you’re open, right?”

“Of course.” Your smile was genial and bright, but not scorching—mellow like the midnight sun in a starless sky. “What would you like, miss?”

She relaxed a little, her shoulders loosening as she placed her helmet on the counter until it appeared as if she remembered something. Looking back, her gaze followed the trail of dirty puddles she had left in her wake. Water pooled from her soaked boots as she gave you a sheepish grin. “Um, sorry.”

You waved it off with a laugh. “Apologize when you can control the weather.” Grabbing a couple of tea towels from the nearby rack, you handed it to her. “Here, why don’t you dry off while I fix you something to warm up with?”

She thanked you profusely as you got to work, concocting up a special blend of frothy hot chocolate with milk, honey, rosewater, and a touch of cinnamon. The pattering of rain from the outside complemented the chill lo-fi soundtrack you had put on in the background.

Sliding the glass over the surface of the table, you placed it in front of her. “Your Turkish Delight, miss.”

“Claire,” she offered. “Just call me Claire.”

As she brought the steamy drink to her lips, her eyes widened, like something had caught her by surprise.

“Mmm, wow,” she sputtered. “This is—”

“Good?”

“Really good!” she corrected, as she gulped the rest down enthusiastically.

At that moment, the door chime tinkled again, and another stranger strolled in, attempting to brush away the droplets from his clothes in vain. Running a hand through his slick blonde bangs, his piercing blue eyes fell upon the two of you like a deer in the headlights.

“Uh, um…” he stammered, only to shake his head in response at his own fumbling as he cleared his throat to try again. “Do you mind if—”

But you were already there, holding out another towel before he could even blink.

“Oh, uh, thanks.” The corners of his mouth curled into a shy smile as he took the towel from your hands gratefully.

“You better leave her a good tip!” Claire hollered from where she sat as he chuckled and raised his hands in mock resignation.

“And what can I get you, mister?”

“Leon.”

“Hmm?”

He stuck out his hand, greeting you with an air of innocence and genuineness. “I’m Leon.”

You shook hands and introduced yourself before he would reveal his order. “Just a coffee, nothing fancy.”

“Coming right up,” you called out over your shoulder, a knowing look cast across your face.

As you prepared a pot of black filter coffee, you overheard your two customers exchanging a few words.

“You from Raccoon City?”

“Nah, I’m just here for a few days to visit my brother. Lemme guess, you’re not from around here either?”

“Not really, well, not yet. I mean, I was supposed to start my first day at the RPD—”

“Wait, today? Have you seen the time?”

“I know, I know… I got delayed. Add the insane weather and I’m still trying to work out the directions on this map.”

“Well, rookie, you’re in luck. My brother’s part of S.T.A.R.S., so I could lead you to the station when the weather clears up a little.”

“Rookie? Really?”

“Do you want my help or not?”

Pouring the freshly brewed coffee into a cup, you served it to Leon, who had just accepted Claire’s offer, despite his slight hesitation. “Your nothing fancy coffee.”

He snickered, locking eyes with you for a split second before taking a sip. Tension eased from his brows as he closed them shut, sighing blissfully into the cup. “It’s—”

“Really good?” Claire suggested, finishing his sentence from him.

He nodded and pursed his lips, finishing the rest of the drink in a couple of mouthfuls. Gesturing towards Claire’s empty glass, he stated, “I’ll get hers too.”

As he fished out a couple of crumpled bills, you stopped him, instinctively placing your hand over his when he tried to slip them over. His eyes flickered at your touch, but he did not pull away, waiting patiently for your response.

“On the house,” you clarified.

“What? No,” Claire protested as she motioned to the empty seats around her. “How’s your shop gonna survive like this?”

“I’ll manage,” you shrugged before peering out through one of the side windows. “Seems like the rain’s lightened up.”

“We’ll be back,” Leon promised, his gaze stoic and sincere, as he dragged the chair out under him, preparing to leave. Claire did the same.

As the door chime tinkled for the final time that evening, he paused abruptly, popping his head back in to ask, “When are you open?”

At this, you let out a smile. “Only at night.”

Dividers by @cafekitsune

#leon kennedy x reader #leon kennedy x you #leon kennedy #leon kennedy fluff #coffee shop au #re2 leon #re2 remake #resident evil 2 #resident evil #fic: coffee & secrets #porcelainscribbles

134 notes · View notes

nolita-fairytale · 2 years ago

Text

burn your life down | chef luca x fem!reader | chapter four

summary: you and luca go to the ballet, bringing up a very important question: is this, and could it be, a date?

warnings: fluff, eventual smut, eventual angst not use of y/n, conversations about divorce, second person pov, swearing, danish inaccuracies, very little connection to the world of the bear.

word count: 3.3k

a/n: this chapter is all about things left unsaid, the pining TM and yearning TM. shoutout to @arctvrvs who recommended onegin, as the ballet they go to see. thank you again for all the shares, reblogs, comments! let me know if you'd like to be added or removed from the taglist!

part three | masterlist | part five

You: I have your book. Devoured it over the weekend.

Luca: Glad you liked it.

You did like it?

You: No, I clearly hate-read it one weekend.

I’m kidding.

Of course I liked it!

Luca: You’re hilarious 🙄

You: I can return it to you later today.

If you have a free minute.

Luca: For you? Always.

Come by the restaurant?

You: Done. See you later.

Text exchanges like this have become more and more regular between you and Luca and it makes you question why you’d ever been so hesitant to tell him about your ex husband in the first place. You know part of the answer: you’d been afraid – afraid of what he’d say, afraid it’d be too much for him, afraid it’d scare him away – and yet, your admission seems to have only brought you closer.

Which is a fact that makes you feel incredibly seen and also scares the shit out of you.

But, with Luca’s copy of A Work In Progress: A Journal tucked underneath your arm, you decide you’ll conquer one mountain at a time as you come in through the doors of the closed restaurant.

“Oi!” one of Luca’s pastry chefs, a burlier man with deep brown eyes and a beard that only facial hair enthusiasts could dream of hollers, in an attempt to grab Luca’s attention when you enter the pastry room. The man follows up his exclamation with something muttered in Danish – something that almost sounds like a cat call directed towards the head pastry chef.

Hey, loverboy. Come get your girlfriend.

You and Luca lock eyes from across the room, and you watch as his face simultaneously lights up as he sees you, while glowering in his coworkers direction. Luca shouts a ‘shut it, mate’ in return before approaching you,

“Did he just-?” you ask him, with a small laugh.

“Call you my girlfriend? Yes,” Luca admits, a blush running across his cheeks as he looks down, embarrassedly.

Brown-eyed-bearded-burly-chef exchanges glances with another chef, focused on weighing dough on a food scale, before asking you with an intrigued hint in his voice:

“You speak Danish?”

“Barely,” you answer, an apologetic half smile on your face.

He exchanges a knowing look with the other pastry chef in response, then snickers, because he really is only trying to be a good wingman here.

“I don’t know what the hold up is… but I see it,” he says in English this time, his Danish accent thick as he wags his finger towards the both of you, earning another glare from Luca.

“Okay, let’s step outside,” Luca hurries, ushering you out of the kitchen and into the empty dining room with a hand on your upper back.

Your laugh echoes in the barren dining room, since pastry prep starts so damn early in the morning, and the physical restaurant doesn’t open for service till evening.

“Again, I’m terribly sorry about him,” Luca apologizes, a little more flustered than you expected him to be.

“No, it’s okay,” you reassure him with a warm smile. “If anything, you at least now know you’ve got a great wingman when you need one.”

You watch a brief flash of, well you’re not sure what, flash across Luca’s face as he wonders if that’s what you’re hoping for. Instead of overthinking it, wondering why you’d want his coworker to act as his wingman in the first place, he pushes it to the back of his mind, moving forward with what he’d planned on bringing up with you anyways.

“Your book, sir,” you say, handing Luca his copy of the book.

“I’m glad you liked it,” he grins.

“Yeah, thanks for lending it to me. Took me a few weekends to carve out the time but… once I started, I couldn’t put it down,” you inform him, gushing over the borrowed book.

“I have something for you,” Luca states, as he pulls out a white envelope from one of his apron pockets. “In return.”

“Awww. Don’t tell me you went through all this trouble to get me a bookmark and when I’ve already finished it,” you banter with him, playfully.

“They’re not bookmarks,” he smirks, as he looks at you with those electrifyingly blue eyes.

“Ah, tell me more,” you encourage him, curiously.

“They’re tickets,” he answers, handing you the envelope.

“Oh.”

Before you can wonder whether Luca went out of his way to purchase you tickets to the ballet, he continues with his explanation.

“Yeah we’ve got this regular diner. Always entertaining, bringing in investors, board members, the likes... Turns out he’s the Artistic Director of The Royal Danish Ballet. Hooks us up with tickets all the time,” Luca says.

“Couldn’t make it opening night so but what do you say… to a performance of Onegin Thursday night?” he continues. “That is if you can – if you want – to take the night off.”

“With you?” you ask, a glimmer of hope in your eyes.

“Yeah, if you’d like,” Luca answers. “Figured I owed you after you purchased the Jazz Fest tickets.” Taking a more playful approach, almost as if he’s testing you as he adds: “Unless there’s something other bloke you wanna take instead of-.”

“No!” you protest, quick to correct him. “I mean, yes. I want to go. With you. Let me see what I can do scheduling wise.”

Was this a date? You wonder to yourself.

For whatever reason, this proposal feels much more like a date than anything else you’ve done with him so far. Bike rides to bakeries, walks through the park, even asking Luca to join you for Jazz Fest with tickets you purchased almost a year ago, still haven't felt this monumental.

But a night at the ballet?

A night of getting dressed up and taking off work to spend time with each other?

This feels much more like a date.

And you might even be excited about the prospect of having one with him, with Luca specifically, something you haven’t felt for anyone in a long time.

“Just let me know,” Luca says, coolly, followed by his oh-so-charming-crooked smile.

By the time you take this… proposition – taking off a night at the restaurant for a maybe-a-date-with-Luca – Mathilde and Jesper are practically pushing you out of the restaurant swearing that if you don’t go, they’ll write you out of the business partnership, and that Mathilde is more than happy to run the kitchen all by herself that night.

While you appreciate the support, it feels like it add pressure – expectations, really – to Thursday night.

You push the thought from your head, choosing to charge forward despite your nerves, before sending Luca your official yes via text message.

So… what does one wear to the ballet?

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

You settle on a silky white slip dress with thin straps, a sweetheart neckline, and a slit in the skirt that travels up the leg in a way that’s revealing yet still appropriate. You’ve draped a blazer across your shoulders because you can’t be bothered to properly put it on during the warmest month of the year but you know you’ll want it when you’re inside of the Opera House. You slip on a black kitten heel to match your bag, then pull your hair back into a loose ponytail, allowing the stray pieces of hair that fall out of it to frame your face.

It’s not until Luca shows up at your flat with a text that he’s here, do you make your way outside. Your head is buried in your bag, taking a last minute inventory, ensuring you have what you need for the night: phone, keys, ID, extra lip gloss…

“Hi,” he says on an exhale, as soon as he sees you.

There’s something in his voice that sounds different, you note, as you lift your head to look at him.

Holy. Shit…

Fuck me, you think to yourself, as soon as you see him. He’s dressed in black slacks with a blazer to match, layered over a white button down worn without a tie, and pristine white trainers that you can’t help but notice.

It’s classic – classy – with a little bit of swag from the trainers that feels… pleasantly unexpected. You look like one of those hip couples that decided to stick it to tradition and get married at the courthouse with a dope photoshoot instead.

“Hi,” is all that comes out of your mouth, your eyes wide as the two of you stare each other down.

Yeah, this really feels like a date now.

“Hi,” he says in return before exhaling. “You look great.”

He’s grinning from ear to ear now, and the man cannot take his eyes off of you.

“I-,” you start, as you gather your words, reminding yourself that you do in fact know the English language. As your words come back to you, you take a more playful approach instead, making up for lost wit as you say:

“You don’t look too bad yourself.”

Luca smirks, a twinkle in his eye that tells you he’s pretty damn enchanted by you right now. The two of you share a look – one that feels very not-friendly, emphasizing just how much more date-like this seems to be.

“Shall we?” he asks you, offering out his arm for you to take.

“Let’s,” you answer, taking it as he escorts you to the metro.

You and Luca look wildly out of place while waiting for the metro, then on the metro as you make your way to the Royal Danish Opera House in your dressier-than-normal apparel. You share small talk while you wait on the platform, ramblings over your day and then his while finding a place to sit, then nervous giggles and flirtatious stolen glances while seated next to each other on your journey.

It’s nice to be reminded that you haven’t entirely forgotten how to flirt.

From its shoreside location to its sparkling interior, the Royal Danish Opera House is awe inspiring. You take it all in as you and Luca settle into your seats and a comfortable quiet intimacy as you look over your programs, just before the show begins.

Onegin, you come to find as the show begins, is a story of unrequited love, missed changes, and ‘too little, too late.’ Its relevance is not lost on you as you watch as the young country girl falls in love with the worldly Count. She is young, naive, a hopeless romantic, perhaps the character you would’ve related to when you were younger – before your marriage ended. A younger version of you might laugh at the fact that you somehow find yourself relating more to the Count. He’s cold, jaded, a pessimist even, only to be rejected when he realizes he missed his chance at love so many years ago.

You steal a glance in Luca’s direction, his eyes fixed to the tragedy that plays out on the stage in front of you.

He really is stunning, you think to yourself, as you carefully examine the near-perfect symmetry of his face, before returning your focus back to the performance.

To say that you haven’t noticed the way Luca looks at you would be a lie. And you can’t help but notice how eager you’ve been lately to find any excuse to spend extra time with him too.

But you can’t help wondering about just how ready you are – how and when you might know when you’ll be ready:

Ready to date. Ready to open yourself up to someone. Ready to fall in love again.

Would you know when it was time? And was this a sign – meeting Luca – that it’s time for a new beginning now?

But what if it weren’t? What if you weren’t ready now? Then what?

It’s not like you’d expect for Luca to wait for you or anything, but the idea of a new beginning, of falling in love again, of possibly getting your heart broken again instills the kind of terror in you that shakes you to your very core.

But what if this was your only chance?

You can’t imagine Luca would be single for much longer – the fact that he even is now completely perplexes you – and you’re sure that he has an entire roster of women lining up, ready to take your place. Not that you feel like it’s your place now, though you’re not sure where he’d have the time to entertain an entire roster of women with how much time you’ve been spending together lately.

You push the thoughts from your mind, trying your best to focus on the dancers, even though it’s the thing that’s got you pensive in the first place.

And it’s almost as if, right on cue, the minute you turn your attention away from Luca, his eyes are on you, admiring the way that you marvel at the story unfolding in front of you.

Luca smiles to himself, in pure disbelief that the same woman who brought him much needed inspiration could also be the same woman he’s begun to have feelings for. He finds you extraordinary: you’re funny, you’re incredibly talented, and you make his heart skip a beat every single time you walk into a room. He doesn’t know which deities to thank for meeting you, but he’s sure he must’ve done something right in a past life for it to bring you to him in this one.

He’s glad you told him – about your ex husband, about the divorce – and while it’s filled in some blanks for him, it’s also brought up more questions. Questions like:

Were you even interested in dating? Were you ready to start dating because he couldn’t blame you if you weren’t? And if you were, would you be interested in dating him?

These last few months of getting to know each other have been wonderful – and he’s thoroughly enjoyed getting to know you as friends – but Luca wants more. He wants to hold your hand while walking along the Nyhavn waterfront. He wants to press a kiss to your lips when you stop by the restaurant as he’s getting off shift, before heading into your own. He wants to wrap you up in his arms, curl his body around yours as you settle in with him on your shared couch after a long night at the restaurant, going on about your new special, or your recently hired line-cook-in-training.

Luca wants to call you his, and he wants nothing more than for you to call him yours. He yearns for the quiet domesticity he thinks he could have with you – one he knows he could have with you.

He doesn’t want to miss his chance. It’s why he asked you that question when you told him about your ex husband – are you still in love with him? – because Luca can’t bear the thought of falling in love with a woman already in love with another man.

He replays the answer in his head – no, I’m not in love with him – almost as if he’s reassuring himself.

Luca knows what he needs to do. He just needs to talk to you and tonight feels like as good of a time as any to do so, considering you’re practically on a date. Luca makes up his mind about it – that he’ll bring it up after the performance, maybe even ask you on a proper date.

As the performance ends, the two of you applaud with the rest of the theatre before exiting the performance space. You and Luca linger outside of the theatre, watching the other patrons walk by, arrange rides for themselves, head out for a night cap. He’s working up the nerve to bring up the conversation, watching your lips carefully as you go on about the performance, a brilliance in your eyes that he notices you get whenever you talk about something you’re passionate about.

You’re in the middle of dissecting the end of Act Two as he Luca abruptly blurts out:

“You hungry?”

You pause as your mouth hangs agape, noticing that’s something different, that’s something’s shifted between the two of you.

“Uh… no. Don’t you have to be up early tomorrow?” you ask back, hesitantly.

“Ehm. Yes, I do. But eh, I don’t know. I’d ehm, I’d be up for a bite. If you are,” Luca manages to explain because he’s not ready for the night to end.

You can feel it – the tension between the two of you hangs thickly in the air – and you know this isn’t just a ‘let’s go out for a bite’ kind of ask.

You wondered how you’d feel when this moment came, and instead of being ecstatic, instead of wanting to jump at the chance, the panic sets in, filling your belly with the urge to jump into harbour instead.

You wish you felt differently – you want to feel differently – but you don’t.

So instead, you stammer out a:

“I think I’m just ready to head home, but you should go. If you want to. I think I’m just going to walk home or-.”

“Don’t be silly. I’ll take you home,” Luca offers.

You hesitate before agreeing, “Uh… yeah. Okay. As long as you don’t mind.”

“Of course not,” Luca says as he places a gentle hand between your shoulder blades, guiding you in the direction of home. “I’d rather know you got home safe.”

You nod, instantly filled with guilt as Luca’s demeanor changes, his facial expression moving from somewhat-confused-and-disappointed to one of concern, kindness, and genuine care.

What the hell is wrong with you? You think to yourself.

But you know you can’t push it – you can’t push yourself to be ready, to open up – regardless of how perfect Luca is.

As Luca walks you home, there’s a palpable shift in the dynamic between the two of you. He seems cautious, almost as if he’s tiptoeing around you, uncertain about where the two of you stand. And truthfully, he is uncertain. He’s worried that he scared you off, if he came on too strong, if his ask changes something between the two of you. Luca realizes tonight is perhaps not the night, but he’s not sure how much longer he’ll be able to wait – be able to keep the way he feels about you to himself.

“Thank you… for walking me home,” you say, as you arrive at the door to your apartment building.

“‘S no problem. Had to get you back to your flat safely,” Luca reassures you with a smile on his face.

You stand across from him, mere inches away. You could do it – close the gap between the two of you because you really do feel like an asshole for earlier – but it feels like something’s stopping you. You wait too long, letting your impulse move too thoroughly through your body, until it’s too late and the impulse is gone.

You’re at an impasse: Luca opens his mouth to say something before pausing and you’re not sure what to say either, the two of you standing across from one another, frozen in a moment in time.

Instead of speaking, he simply steps forward, wrapping his arms around you in a warm embrace as he inhales.

It feels too good.

This feels too good: the way he smells, the way it feels to be pressed up against him, his hands running smooth patterns across your back.

“Luca,” you begin as you pull away from the hug, your eyes locked with his.

He waits, but as you open your mouth to say something else, nothing comes out.

You’re not sure if it’s a look of disappointment, regret, or something else that flashes across his face, before he gives you a half smile. Luca takes a few steps backwards, almost as if he needs to create space between you and him, his voice a low deep rumble as he says:

“Goodnight, love.”

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

a/n: and now we're getting somewhere. i PROMISE we are getting somewhere. just wait ;)

#chef luca #will poulter #luca the bear #the bear season 2 #the bear headcanon #luca x reader #the bear hulu #the bear fx #the bear fanfiction #chef luca x reader #pastry chef luca #burn your life down

824 notes · View notes

itsjustrosee · 1 year ago

Note

Hii!!! Im literally in love with your work 😍it’s so good!!!! I was wondering if you could do a Minho x fem reader where the reader is really feisty and sassy on the outside but soft and scared inside. So when she first comes up in the box as the only girl, her fight or flight instincts come in and she starts running (sorta like Thomas in the beginning of the movies) and she almost makes it into the maze (bc shes really fast) but bumps into Minho who’s on his way out. He grabs her and after that he was instructed to always keep you in his sights bc he’s the only one who can handle/calm you? And you become a runner with him and grow feelings. Something like that idk!

Very cute idea!! I loved writing this, thank you so much for the request!!! This definitely helped me get out of my writing slump so thank you <3

UNDER CONTROL Minho x Fem!reader

Context: look above for summary ^

Warnings: Spice and cursing

Wordcount: 3.4k

! proof read but there might still be some mistakes !

You woke up just to be greeted by almost pitch-black darkness. Questions raced through your mind as your eyes slowly adjusted to your surroundings.

You were in some sort of box. All four walls, including the floor and the ceiling, were made of metal, and you could say that it was almost like you were stuck in a crate of some kind.

There were boxes of food and clothes around you but you didn't have much time to focus on that, not when the cage you were in moved up what seemed like some sort of elevator shaft at an alarming speed.

You tried standing up but you couldn't keep your balance. You landed right back on the floor so you shuffled over into a corner of the box, screaming for help until your throat became raw and you didn't have enough energy to scream anymore.

Hot wet tears streamed down your cheeks and you eventually passed out from exhaustion. When you opened your eyes again, the shaft was still moving but then suddenly it came to an abrupt halt.

You stayed in the corner, curious about what was to come next. Thoughts raced in and out of your brain as you tried to come up with an explanation as to why you were stuck in this cage. But that only made you question even more things. Where had you been before this? Who had you been before this? Who are you?

Your thoughts were interrupted as the crate's ceiling opened, and sunlight from above poured into your box. You looked up as your eyes adjusted to yet another change in lighting and to your surprise, you saw a large group of boys huddled around the perimeter of the box. They all stared at you, some shocked and some surprised.

You heard a couple whoops and hollers being exchanged from those above you and you could hear someone exclaim, "It's a girl!"

What the hell was that supposed to mean?

Suddenly a hand reached down to pull you out of the box, "Welcome to the Glade shank," A boy with odd-looking eyebrows explained, the tone of his voice not welcoming once so ever.

"Come on Gally be nice to the greenie, I mean she is a girl," Another boy said, talking to the one who pulled you out of the box who you now knew was Gally. The boy who was talking to Gally was blonde and different from the others, he had a British accent.

You grabbed the hand of the boy hesitantly and got pulled up to the surface. You felt relieved to be standing on grass, let alone solid ground, until you actually looked at everyone around you. The only people you could see were boys. Only boys.

So that's what they meant. You were the only girl there.

Oh fuck no.

That was the only thing on your mind as you sprinted away from everyone. You shoved past the crowd of boys and ran. You ran like your life depended on it. Your heart beat out of your chest as you flew past everyone, you didn't even know where you were going but you just didn't want to be near anyone else, especially not them. This was too overwhelming for you and you shut your eyes as your mind raced almost as fast as you.

Just as you thought you would be successful in your escape, you slowed down your pace just slightly, finally opening your eyes and looking in front of you.

Walls. Four ginormous stone walls loomed over you.

All you could do was stare at them as you continued running, in awe and in horror.

You were too busy peering up at the walls to even notice the boy that you ended up running right into. You slammed into his chest but he barely even got knocked back by you, even though you ran like hell straight into him.

You subconsciously gripped onto both of his biceps with your hands to steady yourself while his hands both flew to your waist to keep you from falling. As you picked your head up to get a look at the person you collided with, your heart practically beat out of your chest.

Jesus Christ this man is hot.

He was much taller than you, your head only reaching his collarbone. He had a muscular frame and from what you could tell from the veins and muscles on his forearms, he was strong.

But it wasn't just his figure that made him attractive, it was also his face. He had a sharp jawline and a pair of hooded dark brown eyes that drew you in, like there was something just so captivating about them but you didn't know what it was.

As he looked you up and down for a moment, he had a mix of shock and realization on his face. "You must be new here, huh?" He said with a soft grin. God even his voice sounded hot.

You could only stare back at him, a look of terror on your face as you did so. As you looked past him and back to the walls, your eyes prickled with tears, ones that threatened to start streaming down your face any second.

Whoever the boy who stood in front of you was, took one good look at your face and his expression softened. "Hey look at me," He said, removing one of his hands from your waist and putting it on your chin as he moved your head so you'd look at him. "This whole thing seems terrifying, trust me I know, but it isn't as bad as you would think." He finished while putting his hand back on your waist.

"Where am I?" You squeaked out, your voice still slightly hoarse from all the screaming you'd done when you'd been stuck in that box.

"The glade," The boy answered. You gave him a look of confusion because it's not exactly like his reply really answered your question. He opened his mouth to speak again, "Alright it's kind of hard to explain all of this, and I really can't tell you all of it now. I know it seems unfair but you have to trust me, you'll learn everything in time."

"Okay," You mumble out with a small nod of your head.

"My name's Minho by the way," He adds as he removes his hands from your waist and crosses his arms, you quickly follow suit and take your hands away from his biceps and put them to your side. "You might not remember your name now, but you'll get it back in a couple d-" You cut him off before he can finish.

"(Y/N)." You say, the name almost sounding foreign to you, "My name is (Y/N)." You muster out again, this time more slowly as if you're actively trying to tie yourself to that name again.

"(Y/N), huh? You know, most people don't get their names back until a day or two out of the box. It's impressive that you remembered yours so quick." He says with a smile that makes your heart melt.

"Guess I'm lucky then," You say while the tips of your lips drag up to form a small smile.

"Guess so," Minho says, returning your smile as he looks back at you.

You hear footsteps approach and you turn around quickly, taking a step back as you do so. Minho puts a hand on your shoulder and suddenly you feel safe, protected almost, by his presence. You take a deep breath in, and a deep breath out. You don't need to run.

Your eyes land on the thankfully smaller group of boys than before, walking up to you and Minho. "Jeez Minho how the hell'd you calm her down?" Someone says while another replies, "Guess he's just skilled with the ladies," Nudging his friend's arm as they both snicker.

"Slim it Fry. You can't blame the poor girl for being totally freaked. I would've done the same if I were her," The blonde one states.

"Alright settle down," One of the boy's who is walking with them states. He's different from the rest though, he looks older, not by much, but just enough to set him apart. He holds himself with confidence and his voice drips with authority and respect.

The two boys next to him quiet down as they walk over. Gally, the Brit, the guy whose name is Fry, a short chubby kid who radiates little brother energy, and the one who you're assuming is the leader, all stood in front of you.

"That was quite the run you made there." The leader states before continuing, "I'm Alby, I sorta run this place, and this," He points to the blondy, "Is Newt, my second in command." He says while Newt gives you a wave.

"I'm (Y/N)." You state.

"Wow, you already remembered your name? It took me a while to remember mine," The chubby boy replies, looking at you as if you're the coolest person he's ever met.

You give him a warm smile and as you're about to speak, someone else cuts in, "Oh slim it Chuck. No one cares," Gally says rudely, "Shouldn't you be cleaning up klunk in the toilets right now anyways?" Gally says with a chuckle.

For some reason, you feel compelled to defend this little kid. "Don't talk to him like that. You don't run the place, so who are you to go around telling everyone what to do?" You say taking a step forward towards Gally. You disliked him already, despite only knowing him for a couple of minutes.

"I can talk to him however the shuck I want, greenie." Gally sneers as he steps towards you. "You just got here and I don't think that you'd want to get on my bad side already." He spits out.

You scoff, "Honestly, I couldn't care less whether or not I'm on your 'bad side'." You grin while mocking him which only makes him angrier. You're now standing toe to toe with him and his face was only inches away from yours. "What are you going to do, huh? Fight me?" You say while finding your ability to get a rise out of him beyond entertaining.

"You little-" Newt pulled Gally away from you before he could do anything he might regret but you just stayed right where you were. This wasn't over, not in your eyes at least.

"Oh come on. Let him at me. I mean look at him, he's practically frothing at the mouth like some sort of wild animal." You say with a chuckle, meanwhile, he looks like he wants to maul you, but you could care less. "What? Are you afraid of getting your ass beat by a girl or something?"

That was all it took for Gally to pounce on you, but Minho pulled you to his side with two firm hands on your hips before he could reach you. Gally missed the both of you in his attempt to tackle you, resulting in him on the ground. While he tried to get up, both Newt and Fry had to hold him back.

"That's enough." Alby's voice booms while stepping between you and Minho and Newt, Fry and Gally. "Gally you've been here for far longer than she has and you are well aware of our rules here," Alby states while staring at Gally, who, after thrashing around, stands on his knees and finally calms down. Neither of the boy's grip on him gets any softer though.

While Alby lectures the both of you, Gally's too busy glaring at you. He was giving you a look that would seem threatening if anyone else was doing it, but his eyebrows shred the illusion of it being anything close to scary or intimidating.

"Alright Gally you get one night in the slammer, and you," He turns his attention to you, "Though you didn't put your hands on Gally, you should still be held responsible for some of this."

"That's fair," You say with a shrug.

"Minho you aren't allowed to leave her side for the next week," Alby states without missing a beat.

"Wait, what?" Both you and Minho say in unison.

"But I need to go in the maze, how is she supposed to be with me then?" Minho questions.

"That won't be a problem because you will be teaching her to become a runner," Alby explains before looking at you, "I've seen a lot of shanks come up through that box and claim they want to be a runner all for the glory of it, but you, you can actually run." You feel a sense of pride as Alby finishes speaking.

Gally finally gets up and starts walking away and Fry walks with him. As Newt stands up, he whispers something into Alby's ear.

"Minho you're going to have to keep her under control and tour her around the glade tonight after you go to the maze room, alright?" Alby confirms.

"Alright," Minho replies in agreement and both Newt and Alby begin to walk away. He takes his hands off your hips and stands in front of you before you can walk away.

"Well, that was quite the introduction you made for yourself, huh?"

"Dude, what do you expect me to do? Do you guys just let him talk to people like that?"

"Well, unfortunately, that's just kind of the way that he is."

"Now that's just a shitty excuse," You say, rolling your eyes.

"Look, I'm not the biggest fan of the way he acts either but you just need to get to know him." He says while shooting you a pleading look.

"Yeah, I think I'll pass." You say with a chuckle.

"Okay I get it, you don't need to be friends with him or anything, you just need to get along with him well enough," Minho says with a sigh.

"Alright fine. I will."

"Good," Minho says with a smile, "Meet me at the box after dinner, I'll show you around the glade afterward."

You give him a thumbs-up and he turns away, walking to, you're assuming, some place called 'the maze room'.

Just as you're about to walk away, to god knows where because you seriously don't even know where the hell you are, you stop in your tracks as you feel someone tug on the hem of your shirt from behind you.

You turn your head to see the kid from before that you defended, and immediately your expression softens.

"Hey, you need something?" You ask softly while turning towards him.

"Oh um, no, I just wanted to thank you for earlier," He says and you are literally fighting every urge you have to just hug this kid and squeeze the shit out of him. "Not many people are really willing to stick up for me around here, so, thank you."

"Of course. I mean, I couldn't just let that loser push you around like that,"

He gives you a genuine smile before speaking again, "My name's Chuck by the way."

"Chuck, huh? Well, it's nice to meet you Chuck," You say, returning his smile, "You wouldn't mind showing me where we have dinner would you? I don't know where the hell I am," You add with a chuckle.

Chuck agrees happily, and soon enough, you were sat down on a bench at a table eating dinner. You sat down with Chuck and a few others, and you made sure that you stayed as far away from Gally as possible.

After dinner, Minho showed you around and told you about the glade and how everyone was kept in here in some maze. Honestly, you couldn't focus on a word he was saying because you couldn't keep your eyes off the way the moonlight perfectly hit his face. It made him look like some kind of god, and to you, staring at him was far more interesting than realizing you all were stuck in here like some sort of lab rats.

Ok so maybe you developed a little crush on him. Who could blame you? He was hot, but he also had a really good personality. The type of personality that lights up a room, one that makes people want to be around you. That's what Minho had.

As you got to know him more while in the maze and out of it, your feelings couldn't help but grow deeper. Not to mention that he was the only person in the whole glade that could actually handle you. Well, Chuck could too, you had become very close with him, but when it came to fights, you told him to stay out of it. After all, you always knew that Minho would be there to pull you away and calm you down, so you didn't want Chuck to bother getting himself into trouble while trying to bail you out.

And tonight was no different. You'd gotten into an argument with Gally at the bonfire, but this one was worse than most. His words were harsher this time, and it pushed you over the edge.

Minho could tell that you actually felt hurt at what Gally said, so he dragged you out of the bonfire and into his hut where he hugged you as you cried into his shoulder.

You never cried in the glade, not once, yet as Minho hugged you, his arms wrapped around your back tightly as he rubbed circles into it, you couldn't help but let out soft sobs into his shirt.

"Shh," Minho whispered into your ear, "Let it out. You're safe here," His words made your heart melt, partially because he was being so nice to you and partially because he was right. It didn't matter where you were, as long as Minho was there, you felt safe.

"It's just so stupid, I shouldn't be crying over this. He's mean to me all the time I need to get over it," You sniffled, your words muffled by the material of his shirt as you spoke into it.

Suddenly, Minho moved his hands to your shoulders and pulled you away from him slightly so you could face him. "Don't say that, alright? It's not stupid." Minho explained, "He was being a total shuck face you have a right to feel frustrated," He said while taking a thumb and whipping a tear from your cheek.

He rested his hand on your cheek as he looked into your eyes and you felt your face flush.

Suddenly, there was a thick tension between both you and Minho. It was a mix of longing and desire, which only intensified after looking back at him.

You couldn't help but glance down at his lips for a split second, hoping he didn't see it but he definitely did. His hand wrapped around your back moved to your waist as his face leaned into yours, and your lips collided with his.

He kissed you softly and tenderly and you couldn't help but kiss him back with the same amount of passion. You moved your arms around his neck as you melted into his touch. You wish you could savor everything about the way he kissed you.

Minho slid one of his hands down your shirt and up your bare back, causing shockwaves to spread throughout your entire body because of the skin-to-skin contact.

The kiss deepened as he became more and more passionate and desperate with you. You slipped your lips open to allow his tongue to enter your mouth and he proceeded to explore every inch of it.

The ache between your legs only grew greater as you felt Minho's bulge press onto it. He hummed into your lips as he moved his hand from your cheek to under the front of your shirt.

Suddenly, he pulled away, biting down on your bottom lip as he did so. He moved his lips to your jaw, down your neck, and eventually down to the sensitive skin on the crook of your neck. He softly bit and then sucked on the skin, leaving a hickey that multiple people were guaranteed to point out tomorrow.

You moaned softly as he did so, and before you and Minho could continue, you heard the door knob of Minho's hut open.

Shit.

"Hey (Y/N) I wanted to apologize for earlier, I didn't mea-" Gally begins to say, but you can imagine the rest of the words get caught in his throat as he sees you and Minho before him.

"Gally get the shuck out-" You say loudly but before you can even continue, Gally's already out of the door as quickly as he came in.

Alright guys, I did it! Heres another request fulfilled!! I actually really liked how this one turned out and I hope you guys do too!!!

I also wanted to thank each and every one of you who's been supporting me even while I haven't been super active, it really means a lot to me <33

ALSO THANK YOU GUYS FOR 50 FOLLOWERS!!!!! that is literally so insane to me. I cannot thank you guys enough for how kind you've all been

#the maze runner #tmr fandom #minho the maze runner #minho tmr x reader #tmr #tmr fanfic #minho tmr #minho fic #x reader #minho x reader

139 notes · View notes

danaduchy · 3 years ago

Text

all texts from River

Willing to testify? Hey, V. It's River. Question - would you be willing to testify against Holt and Han? * Hey, River. Sure. Thanks. Might not be necessary - asking just in case. * Don't count on me. Can't stick my head out right now Too bad. But it's fine, I get it… I hate to say it, but… You were right all along What happened? Nothing much to tell. Testifying is a snooze-fest anyway. Ehhh, I know better ways to have fun ;) Don't doubt it - first time I saw you, I knew you had that kinda vibe…

Urgent: need your help Hey, V. There's this thing I really could use your help with. Heavy stuff. Please come to the Glen in the evening. Sending you the location now.

Waiting for you Hey, V. I'm at the market in Japantown. Come by when you're free. Lost track of you somewhere, but I found Christine Markov. Waiting for you. I'm at the address the CI gave us. Dump looks sketch. I'll wait for you. Waiting in front of the CI's store. It'd go a lot smoother if you were here… come over, alright?

Come here please Couldn't wait around any longer for you, V. Take care… V, where are you? I'm waiting… Hey, where are you? We don't have time - come back quick, please! Don't have time to wait for you, V. Randy's out there and he needs our help. Looks like I'm doing this alone… V, where are you? I'm waiting in the car…

Where are you?! V, where are you? We're losing time. Get back here, quick! I'm counting on you. Don't have time to wait for you, V. Randy's out there and he needs our help. Looks like I'm doing this alone… I can't believe you just left me like that - not a word, nothing. Doesn't change the fact that someone's still gotta save Randy, so I guess I'll do it without you. You truly know how to disappoint, V. I'd rather you stayed out of my life from now on. Goodbye.

Where are you??! Get back here! I don't know where you are, but I can't keep waiting. Thanks for your help till now, but I need to hurry up and find Randy… V, where are you? Heading back to the car. Get over here and help me, please! V, where are you? We have to save Randy, I need your help! Strange of you to leave at this particular time. I just hope Randy'll make it out alive… I'm heading back to that barn. Where are you?!? I don't know where you went, but I can't keep waiting. Randy needs help! You could've called quits at any other moment, V, but you chose that one? Well, guess what. Randy's dead. You and I are finished. You could've called quits at any other moment, V, but you chose that one? Thankfully, Randy's alive. Thought you might wanna know. Quick, get in the car! We need to go!!!

Need your help again ;) Hey, V, I'm gonna go visit Randy in the hospital and wanna buy him a present. Got any tips? * How should I know? He's not my nephew… * How about a new record? Some fresh tunes might cheer him up Good thinking. How about you? How're ya holding up? * I'm all right. Question is how you're handling all this… Still haven't decompressed after everything, but at least I'm not worried sick. Randy's alive and that's all that matters. * Been a rollercoaster of a ride lately, so biz as usual I guess. You? Manage to unwind yet? Which beer are you on right now? xD Still haven't gotten around to that, but I promise I'll drink one for you ;) What if I said you didn't have to? We should celebrate - just you, me - somewhere chilled, laidback… whaddaya think? ;) Now there's an idea! I'll keep it in mind ;) Alright then, take care, Riv. And tell Randy I said hi! How's your ride? Still in one piece? Banged it up pretty bad… Docs say she's in critical condition, but she'll pull through ;) * We could knock a few back together if you want… Well… how could I say no to that ;) Sweet. And tell Randy I said hi! Course I will. Take care of yourself, V! * I think it's about time I got to know the real River Ward… Hehe, well I think the real River and the real V would get along perfectly… I'll be in touch soon;) See ya later! And if you need anything, just holler.

Dinner at Joss's Hey V. Feel like swinging by Joss's for dinner? * Sure, be happy to join. Great! See you then! * Thanks for the invite, but have to catch you next time. Gotcha. Well, just gimme a call if you change your mind, k? I missed you, you know. * Missed you too. See ya soon then. * C'mon… hasn't been that long. * Me too, but now's not the best time. * Sorry, but definitely another time, yeah? Alright, another time then.

It's all fucked Harris is a corpse, V. I killed him and covered my tracks. Even if I don't fully understand why I did. This is goodbye. V, I just wanted to say… I'm really grateful for your help, even if we fucked it all up. I just… I have to forgive Harris, forget about what he did to Randy, put everything and everyone behind me. That includes you. I'm sorry Harris is a corpse. I killed him and covered my tracks. It's finally over… Goodbye, V. I know you couldn't care less, but Harris is a corpse. I iced him and covered my tracks. The nightmare's finally over… and this is goodbye.

Hope you had fun Hey V, hope everything's alright with you… Thanks for dropping by. I had a really good time :) I'm really glad you dropped by. Missing you already ;) * Yeah, it was cool That's good OK, maybe this isn't the best time… Lemme know when you wanna meet. * Thanks for inviting me. I had a nice time too. Your family's awesome Well my family thinks I've got an awesome friend ;) Joss says hi. You have no idea how nice it is to see her smile again… Thanks for everything, V. You should come over again soon :) Next time I'm buying dinner. See ya! Thanks, River. Take care. * We should do that again. Especially the second half of the evening… :P Oh, I'm all for a round two - I've already got some new ideas that'll drive you crazy ;) You'll be begging… Begging for more… But seriously - I've got a good feeling about this. And well… I'm just happy, like, dumb happy, you know? You're really amazing, V. Hey listen, about the thing with Johnny. I can imagine it must be pretty hard on you. If you ever need to talk, I'm here. * Thanks. That means a lot to me * Thanks, but don't worry. I'll figure something out Just remember you can always count on me. For anything Thanks, River. You too. We'll get El Chamuco next time :) Bye! Hmmm OK, guess you're busy… Hang in there, V

Hey V… I was tidying up the bedroom when I realized there's way more space here than I need all to myself. If you ever want to leave a few things at my place, feel free. Something cozy to slip into… or maybe just a box of grenades. You know, the usual ;)

Randy says hi! * Oh, you visited him at the hospital? What did he think of your gift? Loved it, actually. I mentioned it was your idea. Well… He sure tried to look like he enjoyed it. Gotta sharpen up my uncling skills pronto. * Always happy to help. With anything :) Anything, you say? I'll keep that in mind :) * Randy knows he can count on you That's what matters. Don't hesitate to hit me up. Whatever you need. * Hi Randy! :P How is he? Getting better, I hope? Yeah, he gets stronger every day. You have no idea how grateful we are. * Glad I could help. By the way - I was at the hospital and met the parents of those two boys we'd saved at the farm. They wanted me to thank you. * Randy's lucky to have a family like that. * For you, I'm available 24/7 :) 24/7? Don't think I won't pick you up on that! * Randy's lucky to have a cool uncle! Since we're exchanging niceties - I met the parents of those two boys we'd saved at the farm. They wanted me to thank you. * Good to know they're recovering. * Shame we managed to save only two of them… You shouldn't think like that. We did what we could. Oh, and I also met with Yawen. You know, the one from the lab. * I know, the one who's your ex. Ancient history. Exactly. * The lab? You'll have to refresh my memory. Yawen Packard. She helped us with the Peter Pan case. My ex, remember? * Reigniting the old flame, are we? You couldn't be more wrong. Someone else is on my mind these days. Don't know about that. I feel like too much is happening right now to even consider it. Good luck with that, River. She seemed like one of the good ones. Time will tell. Keep your fingers crossed, anyway. I'll see you around. * Right. How is she? I thanked her for helping us with Harris. She risked her job back then. Sends her regards. * Right. And how did you "thank" her, exactly? Oh my, V! Did I just smell a hint of jealousy there? * Maybe, maybe not, maybe fuck you? :P Haha! You have nothing to worry about, really. Promise. Hope to see you soon, V. * Jealous? For you? Gimme a break :D Not for me, for Yawen! She's a great catch - intelligent, stable job, doesn't leave dirty dishes in the sink… She's all yours for the taking! Seriously though, hope to see you soon. Take care, V. * That's nice of her, thanks So… Have a good one, V!

Weird dream You were in my dreams today, you know? * Hope I wasn't haunting you! …in a way. Wanna hear it? * Don't think I wanna know the details XD Think you can handle it? ;) * Don't know if I'm ready for that today. Shame… Thought you'd like that. * Hit me! Can't pass on an opportunity like that! Well, I woulda told you anyway. You were riding a motorcycle, jacked into it via smart link. Your every thought, every reaction were immediately picked up by the machine. Before a turn, the bike leaned to the side before you even thought about it. When you pushed on the throttle, it roared forward, eager to please and thrill you. Your thighs were clutching its metal body, your muscles pulsating with excitement as you dashed down the highway… You probably figured by now I was the bike in the dream. And then… then I woke up. What do you think? Who haunted whom? * Who are you and what have you done to River Ward XD That bad, huh? Well, you win some, you confuse some :) Time to park the bike in the garage. FOREVER. * Now I really wanna see that engine running ;) It's as good as the rider :D

help with name Hey, V. I could use your help with a tricky matter. Don't worry, the only thing needs saving this time is my dignity. Remember when I told you I considered becoming a PI? * Course. Still hoping to see that private dick in private action ;) Well now the private dick is blushing! * Sure I do. I'm gonna go for it. Feels like the right move for me. Combining the familiar with something new. And you played a part in it too, you know? And not a small one at that! Which is why I'd like for you to pick a name for my new enterprise. Whaddya say? * I'm sure you can come up with a good one. It's your business, after all. Come on. I've seen how creative you can get. Help me out on this one. Please? * Fine. But I thought all those years of interrogating people left you with more wit than that :P Phew. That's a load off my shoulders. I'll be waiting, then! Give me your suggestions, I will pick the right one. Simple as that. * Damnit. Fine. I'll think about it. * Sounds tempting, I'm in! But… But? I'll help you, but I need a list of suggestions. Ain't great at marketing, you know. Ugh. I'll bet your sweet ass I'm even worse at this! I will suggest the names and you pick one. I was actually counting on that. Got anything good? How about "Warning Shot PI" or "NC Crime Ward?" NC Crime Ward sounds good… How about "Private Sherlock?" :P Edgewood Findings PI." Or maybe "NC Crime Ward." "My Justice PI" or "NC Crime Ward." Oh, wow. Don't know what to choose now… "Warning Shot Private Investigations." For sure. Night City Crime Ward. For sure. Edgewood Findings Private Investigations. No doubt. My Justice Private Investigations. Really like that one. Hmm… * You don't like those? I do. A lot, actually. Just need to sleep on it now. * Hmm? I got some options, now I have to sleep on them. * Could sleep with me, you know ;) Was thinking the same thing ;) We're in touch! * Let me know :) I will. Unless I decide I don't like your suggestions, in which case I'll start actively avoiding you :P

Still thinking. * About me and my goods, I hope? Especially about your goods. * So much thinking… Poor, dry River! Laugh all you want. Thinking isn't exactly in the NCPD job description. Okay, two ideas right off the bat: "River Ward Patrol" or "Detective Hunch Private Investigations." Thoughts? * River Ward Patrol is funny. I like it. Hmm… Why? River… Ward… Patrol. It's not clear to you? Suits your personality. Trust me on this, baby! * Detective Hunch PI… That's cool. It really says everything about you, babe :) Carries a promise of a genuine detective. Right. Makes sense. Thank you, V, you helped me a lot! Already mentioned that you deserve a lot of credit for all of this. But I'll understand if you don't want to have anything to do with it. * Look, I'm happy for you, setting up a new business and everything. But really, it's your future, you should be the one making important decisions like that. * Sorry, River. Don't really have the time for this right now. Fine. I still like you, though. I like you too, you big dummy. More "big" than "dummy," I hope! I'll keep in touch about this. Let me know what you decided on!

Hey! I talked to my neighbors today and I got really inspired. I think I got it. Ready? Here goes… "Your Super-Detective Companion." I'll get a big, old-fashioned signboard and everything. What do you think? It's great, right? * The name won't matter once they see that handsome face of yours ;) Now that's a good answer if I ever saw one! You deserve a special kiss for that :* * Awesome! Matches you perfectly XD …you're messing with me now, aren't you? * Hey, you're a super-detective to me! :* * I'm totally not! It really is perfect. Damn, do I like you, girl :)

Official Private I - that's me! Guess what, V… Today, I founded my very own company! It's official! Night City Crime Ward | Warning Shot P.I. | Edgewood Findings P.I. | My Justice P.I. | River Ward Patrol | Detective Hunch P.I. | Your Super-Detective Companion Has a nice ring to it, don't ya think? You - a merc. Me - a P.I. Quite the pair and not all that unalike. We help the client find what they can't find themselves. * Yeah, true. Easy to get lost in the details Exactly. And I'd rather not dwell on those details… Or the old cop in me is gonna get antsy * Dunno… Somtimes its my job to keep things hidden See? We complement each other. That's good business ;) * A merc doesn't always need answers. Sometimes we go in blind Well, not even the lucky ones get to work with complete info… Still, see what you mean. But if I'm looking for a missing person, it'd be good to know if they don't wanna be found. Like a woman fleeing her abusive husband. * A problem solved for one client raises a new problem for another Not sure you have any idea just how many enemies I made in my service with the NCPD. I know a thing or two about replacing old problems with new ones :) * But I gotta say. Bein a merc, having flexible hours is quite the perk So you're on call 24/7? Hey, if you like it… :D * At least bein a detective means bein insured Right! Thanks for the reminder. Knew I forgot something… Btw, cross your fingers for me. Think I might have my first contract. Client has til the end of today to decide and give me the scoop. It's re: a disappearance, which is perfect. That's where I see myself focusing my effort. * Not gonna focus any of that effort on me? Hmmm… Now what could that mean… Wait, don't telll me, I'm a detective after all ;) * Only without any repeats of Peter Pan I hope. Gotta watch your back Nah, c'mon. Don't worry about little old me. Athough it is cute :) * Ever take a shower and just get lost in thought? Gonna be me today. Thinking about you… Oooh… well if you do get lost, I'll be there to find you. ;) Unfortunately gotta put down my phone for a bit, but we'll talk soon. Givin you kisses up down and all around. * Gonna miss hangin out while you're out there finding all the city's missing You're always at the top of my to-do list! Unfortunately truth is I do actually gotta go right now. Hang in there, V. Love ya lots!

Memories Sat for a spell on the water tower yesterday, you know the one. Couldn't stop thinking about last time. Us up there, that view… Never thought I was the puppy love type, but here we are… * Ah good times… No, wait… the best times. I'm glad you feel the same. I've been buried in this city for so long now it feels like, with you, I've finally dug my out, filled my lungs with fresh air for the first time. Does that make sense? It's such a strange, new, wonderful feeling I can't even describe it. * If you're gonna climb 50 feet for memories, just do me a favor and watch your step Haha! I may be falling for you, but not off that tower. Not now that I have someone in my life who can make me laugh again… And make me feel like I'm always soaring 50 feet above the earth :) Say, you ever think about your roots? Where you come from, where you're going, and all that? Just thinkin how my parents didn't and now I know so little about my ancestors. I've tried to connect with other people of the Pomo tribe here in NC but they're either all gone or they're like me and Joss - lost and detached. Heard there's strong community in NorCal but idk… maybe someday. * All that matters to me now is where I'm going and who I share the road with Maybe you're right. It's about where you choose to put down your own roots and who to build a life around. * I come from a world of cash grabs and power struggles. Not much else there to think on… * My old tribe… they're long gone. But the world keeps moving. It never stands still * My roots have always been right here in Night City. Used to think I knew what that meant, now I'm not so sure Yeah, why dwell on what's not yours anymore or never was. It's about where you choose to put down your own roots and who to build a life around. * That's you and me, River. We're one tribe now God dammit, V, I love you. Still can't believe the lucky bastard I am to have you * Prefer to focus on the here and now. The time to plant roots comes later Right. All anyone can do is seize the day. One day at a time. | Right. First we gotta get that squatter out of your head.

Sorry, can't take a holo right now, a little tied up. But hit me - what's up? Need your help * Got a sec? Could use your help * Got a moment for someone in need? Course, what's the issue? Straight to biz. Gotta admit it stings a little that I only get a sign of life when there's trouble. As much as I admire your directness, we really gotta work on our foreplay :) So tell me what's goin on * A couple acquaintances of mine found themselves in trouble. Talkin real bad * I met this pair, both are BARGHEST. Y'know, Dogtown goons. They're in a tough spot That's why I need 4 power generators Whoa whoa you need what? Generators…?? * Ahem… Word is the boys over Santo recently confiscated some generators… ;) I think I got just the thing… Hold on, need to think a sec. I always excpected we'd throw some fun surprises at each other. This… I did not expect. BUT that doesn't mean I'm any less willing to help! There's an evidence locker with some generators on file But you do remember I got kicked off the force, right? Surely you're not asking me to steal NCPD property or grease anyone's palms… * I'll be straight with you. This is a life or death situation. Fully serious Ahhh fuck it… ok. I've kept in contact with a couple friendly faces who still owe me a favor. I'll figure something out I'll get you those generators. I'll even toss in the fixer's delivery fee. They'll drop them in the dumpsters by the Coronado Bay movie theater. * Thanks, River. Seriously. You're a big softie at heart I know I know… :) Oh I know… Just don't tell anyone. No one's gonna hire a big softie for their hard-line detective :) <3 xo * You. Are. The. Best. What can I say - just like to help I like you, V. A fact you know how to use to your advantage. But dammit if that's not part of your charm ;)

Think about me sometimes? hey, how goes it? still think about me from time to time? * not right now, sorry. got a pretty demanding gig, need to stay focused. I respect that. Staying focused is staying safe. * I could use your input for this complicated gig I'm on right now If you wanna talk about, I'm here. Who knows, maybe I could even help… * I was actually thinking about you - my imagination was running wild until you interrupted me ;) Well now you HAVE to give me details…! * oh you know - just a cozy evening together :) Seeing as our ideas for a date match up, maybe we should set things in motion? * only thing you need to know is that whipped cream was involved… Well excuuuuse me… Instead of saying sorry, I could make it up to you by helping you reenact that scene in real life…? * my imagination, my biz ;) All good, understood. You've got your secrets, I've got one or two of my own ;) * there's still a lot I don't know. it's a complex sitch. I'll tell you everything later Not an appropriate subject for the holo, hm? I get it. * Definitely not. But maybe sometime over a drink…? * Definitely not right now. Eyes and ears everywhere. * well, I guess I'm basically a bodyguard. one-time thing, but with the potential for future cooperation. Just remember that no matter what the job is or who it's for - your safety's most important * Gig I'm on's pretty layered, complex - maybe another time…? I'll hit you up, don't worry ;) * can't spill detes, but it's not the best time. for now we'll have to settle for fantasies * let's leave it at that :) I'll catch up with you later, promise I get it. Do what you have to do. In my experience, sacrificing too much on someone's behalf rarely pays off. People's gratitude is usually shortlived and the money doesn't last forever. * I know, I know. I'll explain everything some other time. Course, I'll let you get back to it. We'll catch up later. Maybe over dinner, who knows ;) * No need for the lecture - I got this. Course, I never doubted you. I just hope we'll meet up soon to chat… Whatever happens, look after yourself :) * I'll try. you too - I'll make sure to check <3 * thanks. I just hope all's good between us. Next time just give me a sign, anything, that you're still alive…

Someone misses you! V! How've you been? * River! How've YOU been? Ha, good, good. But could always be better… * Pretty good, you? All's well, thanks. Although I'd love to hear you ask me that in person… * Can't complain. What, you miss me? :) Wow, good read. You ever thought about becoming a detective? :P You probably already guessed what this is all about… want to meet up? Catch up? * Definitely! Come by my megabuilding apartment :) Perfect! Be there in a flash! * What would you say to a house party in Northside? Great idea! Should I bring chips…? * Wanna meet in Japantown? Sounds great! I'll head out soon! * Yeah, swing by my place in the Glen! I'll clean myself up and be right over! * Hell yeah, come downtown to my pad in Corpo Plaza! It's settled then :) So, yeah… Ok! Can't wait! * Let's do it! Time to rock Dogtown! Haven't you heard what they do to the cops behind that wall? Do me a favor and keep us within NCPD jurisdiction :P * Today's not great for me… sorry :( Guess you'll have to keep missin me :P Ouch! Heartless! :P I'm sure we'll have better luck next time!

Hey, sweetie… Can I call you that? Sweetie? hmm… Maybe… you'd like to get together again? If you're not opposed… Hey, how's your day been? Mine's been full of thoughts of you :) Any chance you'd like to enjoy my humble company? Do you know how much I like you? T H I S M U C H I'd like to do something for you. Like… maybe visit? If you're looking to improve your day… maybe I can help? :) * You read my mind :) Come to my megabuilding apartment * Well aren't you adorable? :P Meet me in Northside Good thing I can't get speeding tickets ;) * I'd love that! Swing by Japantown! Sit back. I'll be there soon <3 * Can't say no to you! Come to my place in the Glen ;) Getting ready now. Me and the butterflies in my stomach :P * Let's meet downtown, Corpo Plaza <3 * Hmm… how about a dog day in Dogtown? ;) I… would prefer Night City, if I'm being honest :)

Hey there, beautiful :) You know, think it probably goes without saying at this point but… you bring light to my life, V. If you feel the same, just remember - one word and I'm at your doorstep <3 * I do. And I'll let you know when I'm free again, I promise! You have my number. I mean… obviously, haha. * You're sweet :) Can't wait to see you again soon Already counting the hours and seconds :) * Just remember to knock :P Ha, I'll need a signature knock then. Don't want you confusing me with a Buck-A-Slice delivery :D Well… talk later!

What's up, River? Got anything on your plate? Be nice to see you :) Hey, V! Work is pretty light right now. Can I come by your place? :) A lot of somethings on my plate right now, actually. :( But I'll let you know when I'm free!

You spoil me Haha, thanks for the gift, V. This thing is 100x better than my old police cruiser! V, what a romantic! Do these flowers smell like you too? Or is that just my wishful thinking? ;) * Just a pity I can't box up my kisses and send you those too :-* * y'know, you're the only gift I could ever ask for <3 I love you, babe <3 As for sharing memories, I'd love to tell you more about myself. But… by "dry" did you mean "sober"? * Well, y'know, a few drinks in and the eyelids get heavy. And I don't wanna miss a word ;) Say, just how much have you had to drink today, hm?? :P * Nah, just a joke about the water tower :P Haha, well I know other places too, you know :)

Unexpected trip outta NC Hey, just wanted to let ya know I'll be outta town a few weeks. Somethin suddenly came up Outta town? Without me? * If this trip was for pleasure, you'd already be packin your bags ;) I know, just kiddin around. But you'll be home quick, yeah? Do my best * Not missin much. This trip isn't exactly for fun Then why go? What's this about? Tell ya once I'm back. :) For now, gotta delta

Please? Can you pick up? Just pick up. I don't like to play games Where the hell are you? I'm turning NC upside down trying to find you… PICK UP THE HOLO Please I'm begging you Johnny…? Just one call, you owe me that much

Wanna grab a beer? V, feelin thirsty? Beer's on me. Wanted to bounce a thought off ya. and of course enjoy the company of the preemest woman in the city ;) Or… maybe you're working a big gig right now? V, everything ok? I'm trying to call, can you please answer? Hey, checking in. It's been a few weeks… Hey again, starting to get real worried now. You said just a few weeks and that was half a YEAR ago Make that a full year… what the hell? 17 missed calls from River Ward

#cyberpunk 2077 #river ward

36 notes · View notes

manygeese · 9 months ago

Text

ok we’re so back guys (shoutout to @demigod-shenanigans)

Piper and Leo’s Book Club

Piper was lingering near the doors of the library, waiting for a certain best friend of hers to arrive for book club. They’d joined it after the great schedule fiasco, taking weeks to settle on a club to share with each other. At one point, they’d had a conspiracy board laid out in Piper’s bedroom, with a list of clubs, their pros, and cons on it.

YEARBOOK CLUB

PROS: looks good on college applications

CONS: child labor

COOKING CLUB

PROS: for all ye poor souls who have not family and consumer sciences

CONS: Piper has never touched a pan in her life and may spontaneously combust

LGBTQ+ CLUB

PROS: like minded individuals

CONS: we were going to join this anyways and we need something ✨special✨

Finally, they found one they could agree on:

BOOK CLUB

PROS: media literacy!!! hell yeah

CONS: ain’t none (honorable mention: nerdy as fuck)

So there Piper was, at one end of the campus while Leo had to make his way over from the other one, on a hot August day. Piper flipped through the pages of her book, which she had narrowly finished before the meeting, hoping to whatever gods were real that nobody asked her comprehension questions about it. She was barely awake when she had read the last few chapters of it last night.

Two figures turned the corner, making Piper look up from the book to see who it was. She scoffed when she made eye contact with Leo. “Took you long enough!” She yelled, putting her hands up to her mouth to make the sound travel farther (not needed; his eardrums would have burst either way).

“Oh, I’m sorry your highness, I had to haul my ass all the way here from the 100 building. That’s like, 17 miles,” he hollered back.

Jason laughed from where he walked next to Leo. Shucking off one of the backpacks hanging off his shoulder, he handed it to his boyfriend, who hugged it to his chest. Leo leaned up to give him a peck on the cheek. “Thanks for carrying it, babe. Have fun at football practice.” Leo fell into his spot beside Piper and waved goodbye as Jason continued walking.

“Bye, Leo. Bye, Pipes.” Jason waved back.

“Bye, Jason,” Piper and Leo said at the same time. “Jinx. Jinx again.”

They squabbled over who had to buy who a soda as they entered the library, lowering their voices to whisper-shouts when they noticed nobody else was nearly as loud.

“Oh, by the way, did you read the book? ‘Cuz I sure as hell didn’t,” Leo drawled, slamming his backpack down on a random table. Piper followed suit.

“You had two whole weeks, man.” Piper eyed him judgingly.

Leo rolled his eyes in a fashion that looked painful. “And those two whole weeks were used to study for my first multicultural literature test, idiot.”

“How does one study for a literature test, hmm? Does one, mayhaps, read?”

“I hope you get Juliet in the play so I can watch you die.”

Piper laughed a little louder than was appropriate. “Ok, but what were you really doing? Because I know for a fact that you never study.”

Leo held his hands up in surrender. “You caught me. I was, like, a quarter into the book yesterday afternoon when Nyssa came in asking for help on a project. She was building a model for her world geo class, something about replicating the Parthenon, so naturally I accepted. I didn’t spend hours listening to Annabeth yap about Greek culture for noth-“

“Hi, Annabeth!” Piper greeted cheerfully, looking between Leo and the girl coming up behind him.

“Did I say yap? I meant expound. Expound elegantly and gracefully, which I am forever grateful for.” Leo turned around quick as a flash, gesturing theatrically with his hands to explain himself.

Annabeth had a smirk on her face as she flopped her book bag down next to theirs. “I’m glad you liked my expounding, Leo.”

“Always, smartypants.” Leo sent a few finger guns her way. She returned them half-heartedly. “Actually, could you take a look at the blueprints? Nyssa was kind of uncertain about the details. Apparently she doesn’t trust me. Tragic.”

“Tragic, indeed.” she said, pulling her reading glasses off of the collar of her forest green sweater. “Let me see.”

~*~

Piper was stuck among various kinds of nerds, she thought with a bored sigh. Annabeth and Leo, obviously, were geeks. Annabeth’s friend Malcolm was so clearly a dweeb. And Piper herself was a dork by proximity.

It was nearing the end of book club, around 3:00. Leo had somehow bullshitted his way into getting others to think he read the book, while Piper and Annabeth had squealed about how cool the premise was. Piper talked about the sustained metaphors, Annabeth rambled about the imagery, Leo tried to derail the conversation to discuss what happened in his fifth period, Annabeth shushed him, Piper shushed him, Malcolm shushed him, Leo grumbled under his breath about them being no fun, so on and so forth.

The librarian shooed them out of the library at 3:05, fretting about a meeting of the school committee of something or other in 10 minutes. Piper and Leo gladly left the premises, with Annabeth heading out to study with Malcolm at Town Center.

“I’m gonna go watch the football practice. I think Hazel’s there, too, should be fun if you want to tag along,” Leo offered, already walking backwards towards the football field. He swung his backpack back and forth, having not yet put it on.

Clang, said the support pillar that Leo ran into.

“You should really stop walking backwards,” Piper stated after she stopped laughing. Leo rubbed at the back of his head, giving her a glare.

“Fuck you. I meant it when I said I want to watch you die.”

Piper pulled out her phone and opened her text messages. “Sorry, my dad’s already here for pickup. Have fun watching your himbo boyfriend work out, you sap,” she spat as she ran out to the parking lot.

“I’ll tell him you said that!”

#piper mclean #leo valdez #jason grace #annabeth chase #heroes of olympus #percy jackson and the olympians #hoo high school au #valgrace

25 notes · View notes

jerzwriter · 1 year ago

Text

This is a fictional answer to @tobias-carrick-appreciation-week's What Would Tobias Do? question for day 6: What would Tobias do if he was dating someone he was (surprisingly) really into, then he found out they were a porn actress. This has me changing his dating history, because this is officially part of my HC. lol I hope you enjoy this flashback to The Hopkins Years fic!

Book: Open Heart (Pre-Series / Johns Hopkins Years) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x F!OC Other: Ethan Ramsey Rating: Teen - maybe Mature to be safe. Nothing explicitly. Words: 3,027 (sorry...) Summary: Tobias Carrick wasn't known for taking relationships seriously - at this stage of his life - he was there for a good time, not for a long time. Then he meets Stacy, and things change. He's finally accepted that's OK when a secret from her past threatens to blow it apart. How will Tobias react to the news, and what impact does it have on the couple?

A/N: I have additional A/Ns at the end. But participating in @julychallenge Pink: Romance, Vulnerable Black: Attraction, The Unkonwn

Ethan stood over the stove wearing no more than his old, blue terry bathrobe. His disheveled hair, stubbly beard, and raspy voice all indicators of how raucous last night had been. The fact that he was standing and cooking could be considered a medical miracle in and of itself, or so it seemed, until Tobias emerged from his bedroom.

They had similar nights, but Tobias looked no worse for the wear. Already fully dressed, with a bright smile on his lips, he waved to his friend and roommate as he continued a conversation on his phone.

“I’m making eggs. Do you want any?” Ethan hollered, but the question went ignored.

“It was great,” Tobias grinned. “I’m so glad you thought so, too.”

Ethan rolled his eyes as he tended to the eggs; this uncharacteristic behavior had become more common in recent weeks.

“Do you have plans today? No? Well, I was thinking of taking a drive to Kent Island. I’d love the company if you’d like to come along? All right... great! I’ll pick you up in an hour?”

Tobias sat at the kitchen counter, where breakfast awaited him. He didn’t say a word until the weight of Ethan’s stare became too much to ignore.

“What?” he asked, almost annoyed.

“I took the liberty of making eggs for you,” Ethan scowled.

“So I see,” Tobias smiled. “Thank you.”

“I asked you wanted any... of course, you didn’t answer.”

“You asked?” Tobias asked with confusion.

Normally, Ethan would have been annoyed, launching into a tirade about how Tobias doesn’t appreciate his contributions, but today, all he did was smile. It was a novel treat to see his roommate behaving this way.

“It’s Stacy... isn’t it?”

“What?” Tobias gasped, not willing to confess the obvious. “No! I’m just in a good mood, that’s all.”

“Yeah! Because of Stacy! No need to hide it; I can’t blame you at all. She is stunning.”

Tobias looked as bashful as he was proud; Ethan only wished he could be recording this.

“She is, isn’t she?” He replied with a grin.

“She’s also intelligent, funny, a great conversationalist....”

Tobias leaned back in his chair. His smug persona on full display.

“Most of my women are, Ethan...”

“Please,” Ethan scoffed. “Beautiful? Yes, but the rest... very debatable.”

Tobias chuckeled as he finished his eggs, but he didn’t argue Ethan’s point.

“It’s OK... you know... to like her more than for a night.”

“I know,” his friend replied matter-of-factly. “I’ve been seeing her a while now... and I’m taking her out again today. But thanks for the permission, buddy.”

Ethan shook his head. “What I meant is you can like her seriously. It’s all right to think long-term; it’s OK to consider commitment. You’re not getting any younger, and it’s not every day you find someone as special as Stacy.”

“Yes, Mom.” Tobias dismissed.

Tobias knew his friend was right; in fact, it’s all he had thought about since he met Stacy two months before. It scared the shit out of him, but if he was being honest, the prospect was a little less frightening each day.

“Well, I never said we’re getting serious,” he argued. “I...I’m just... I like her, you know?”

“I know,” Ethan grinned. “And you could do worse. Have fun at the beach,” He said with a smirk. “Should I expect you home late?”

Tobias smiled like the Cheshire cat. “Maybe you shouldn’t expect me home at all.”

~~~~

Stacy heard Tobias’s car from nearly a block away. The beautiful weather meant his car’s roof was down, and Rhianna blaring from the speakers was the only calling card Stacy needed. She was already walking down her steps when he arrived, and God, she was a sight to see.

Tobias did his best to maintain his composure, but that was a tall task as she sauntered his way. Her long auburn hair glistened in the sunlight, and her white sundress hugged every curve. And that smile—innocent as an angel’s yet irresistibly inviting—left him utterly speechless, and Stacy didn’t miss a thing.

She hopped into the passenger seat with a giggle; not wasting a moment, she threw her arms around his neck, pulling him into a deep, passionate kiss, and her effect on the man was instant.

“Mmmm,” he growled. “You need to stop that, or we’ll never make it to the beach.”

“Oh, we’re going to the beach,” she insisted. “Of course... who knows what we’ll do on the beach.”

Tobias held her hand most of the drive; he was both astonished and ashamed of how he felt. How was he falling so hard that even Ethan saw it? At any other time, he would have cut off all contact at once to stop whatever crazy feeling was happening, but with Stacy, it was impossible.

It wasn’t just her beauty or the way the sound of her voice drove him insane. It was her quick-witted sense of humor that often left him and everyone else in stitches. It was her tender heart, like the time Tobias had to cancel a reservation he called in a favor to make just so they could tend to a wounded bird she spotted on their way. It was her brilliant mind, the head of her class in biotechnology; she could talk him under the table. He encouraged her to go to medical school, but she had already planned another path in painstaking detail. He didn’t want to admit it, but she could well be the whole package... and he was nowhere near ready for that... but he was already enchanted, and there seemed to be no way to break free of Stacy’s spell.

“Have you ever been to Kent Island?” he asked.

“No. But then, I’ve only been to the beach once since moving to Baltimore.”

“What?” Tobias was stunned. “You’ve been here two years and been to the beach once?”

Stacy shrugged. “We can’t all be you, dear!” she teased. “Some of us have to put in a lot of effort to stay at the top of our class... not to mention some of us have to work to pay for Hopkins.”

“Hey, I didn’t mean any offense,” he said with a kiss on her hand. “But I’m hoping you’ll let me spoil you a little.”

“Oh, what do you have in mind?” she cooed.

“Do you mean today or more long-term,” he smiled.

With his eyes on the road, he hadn’t seen Stacy’s face. If the words surprised him, they surprised her even more.

“Uh, let’s stick to today... for now...”

“All right, how does a walk on the beach and dinner at a great little seafood place, I know of, sound? We could spend some time on the boardwalk and maybe give me a chance to win you a prize.”

Reaching over the console, she placed a kiss on his cheek. “And here I thought you were my prize.”

“You’re good for a man’s ego,” he beamed as she placed her head on his shoulder for the remainder of the ride.

The day went as planned... better than planned... neither could remember the last time they had such fun so effortlessly, and they didn’t want it to end. Tobias rented a room at a local bed and breakfast where little sleep was to be had. After making love the night through, they woke up and showered together, only to decide to use that comfortable be once more before getting in the car to return to Baltimore.

Tobias was beginning to push his fear aside, and the stupid grin on his face made that perfectly clear. He was so wrapped up in the pastel summer haze he found himself buried in that he didn’t notice how quiet Stacy had become. She left his car rather quickly when he dropped her off, but he chalked it up to being exhausted... after all, they hadn’t had much sleep.

When he walked into the apartment, Ethan looked up from his studies and smirked at his roommate.

“So, your day at the beach turned into a weekend at the beach, I see.”

“Did you miss me, boo?” Tobias teased.

“Hell no! I loved having the place to myself. It’s so much more spacious when your big head isn’t here.”

“Hahaha,” Tobias ?. “Like your head doesn’t take up a ton of space.”

“Oh, it does!” Ethan concurred. “That’s why it’s more comfortable when only one of us is home. So... are you ready to admit that you really like this one?”

“I don’t know what the fuck is wrong with me, bro... but I do... I haven't told anyone this, but Mandy called to hang out the other night, and you know what hang out with Mandy's mean... and I passed. I could have gone, but I passed. Who the hell am I?”

“It’s not the worst thing in the world,” Ethan chuckled.

“That’s the scary thing,” Tobias said with a yawn. “I’m starting to see that. I even mentioned it to Stacy this morning.”

“You what?”

“I told her I was falling for her and asked if she felt the same... I can actually see myself wanting... more with her.”

“Wow,” Ethan grinned. “If I knew this was going to happen, I would have added the earthquake rider to our rental insurance policy. Sure, the idea of an earthquake in Baltimore is far-fetched, but right now, not so much.”

“Shut up,” Tobias chuckled, heading toward his room. As enlightening as the conversation was, he was desperate for some shut-eye. And luckily, he got a little in before his doorbell rang several hours later.

Ethan had headed out to work, so Tobias wiped the sleep from his eyes as he groggily answered the door. Though he was delighted to see he was disturbing his sleep.

“Stacy,” he beamed. “I didn’t expect to see you again today?”

She bit on her lip, then a hesitant smile formed on her lips. “I hope it’s OK that I dropped by unannounced. I tried calling you, but....”

Tobias took the phone out of his pocket. “Sorry, I turned the ringer off so I could take a nap. But you’re always welcome, come,” he said, opening the door. “Come on in. What brings you by?”

After assuring they were alone, Stacy took a seat on the couch, holding Tobias’s hands in hers. “I came by to talk about... what you said this morning... about wanting more... with me.”

“Oh,” he replied, noticing her apprehension. “Well, if that’s not what you want, it’s OK, I didn’t mean to frighten....”

“Tobias,” she smiled, holding a finger to his lips. “Let me finish. The thing is... I do... want more with you, too... but I’m not so sure you’ll want more with me.”

“But I’m the one who...”

She shot a look in his direction, and he was silent again. “There’s something you should know first.”

Retrieving her phone from her purse, she pulled up a video, then closed her eyes - pressing pause – both on the video and her conversation.

“Hey... are you all right?” Tobias asked, placing an arm around her shoulders. “If you don’t want to....”

“No,” she sighed, it’s important. “I hope... I hope you don’t hate me.”

She handed him the phone and watched as his eyes grew three sizes. There on that little screen was Stacy – his Stacy – naked and having a great time – with someone that definitely wasn’t him. Peeling his eyes away, he pressed stop and turned to her.

“All right, hon, I’m not going to be mad at you and an ex having a sex video... that’s nothing I’ll judge... but why the need to show it to me.”

“He’s not an ex,” she said with a deep sigh. “He’s an actor... just like me.”

A wrinkle appeared on Tobias’s brow, showing his utter confusion, and Stacy swallowed hard before she continued.

“See, if I tell you my screen name, you can Google me... and you’ll find a whole lot more where that came from... I... I’m a porn actress.”

His eyes grew again, and his face was ashen. “You’re an... oh,” he fumbled for words.

“Look, it’s not that I’m ashamed,” she continued. “It was a choice I made... a choice that allowed me to attend college, a choice that made going to Hopkins for my masters a reality. A choice that helped get my family out of poverty...though I never really told them why. I told them I won the lottery and, well... I didn’t.”

“Stace,” Tobias started, “You really don’t owe me any explanation, I....”

“You’re right,” she interrupted. “I didn’t... until this morning. If you want us to be serious – you have a right to know. You don’t deserve to learn by some jackass telling you he saw me in Throbbin’ Hood.”

Tobias lowered his eyes with a little chuckle. “Now I saw Throbbin’ Hood, and you were not in that,” he joked, not sure what to say.

“So you’re a connoisseur, and you’ve never seen my work,” she half smiled. “I don’t know if I’m relieved or insulted.”

“I... I’m not sure what to say,” Tobias faltered. “I mean, I don’t judge you; as a connoisseur, I’d have to be a pretty big asshole to judge you...”

“Well,” she chuckled sadly. “You’d be surprised... most connoisseurs are quite judgemental.”

“Well, I’m not,” he said, taking her hand. “It’s just....”

“It’s just I’m not exactly what you had in mind when thinking about something serious.”

“No! I didn’t say that!” He insisted. “It’s just... this is a bit of a surprise, and I, can I have some time to process it?”

“Sure,” Stacy grinned, leaning over and placing a peck on his cheek. “Take some time and let me know what you decide, but Tobias?”

“Yes?”

“If you decide you don’t want to go further because of this part of my past, I’ll be sad, of course, but I’ll be OK. The person I’m meant to be with... they won’t hold it against me, and if you do... then you’re not my person. I just thought it was only fair to let you know before things go any further between us.”

After a hug, Stacy headed home, leaving Tobias in a daze on the couch. She had told him her porn name, and he was caught between temptation and horror at the thought of searching for it. In the end, horror prevailed, and he put his phone away. He was still in a state of astonishment when Ethan arrived home, immediately noticing the change in his friend’s demeanor.

Tobias wasn’t about to break Stacy’s trust, but if there was anyone he could trust to keep this between them, it was Ethan, and he needed a trusted friend’s opinion. Ethan did his best to conceal his own shock at the news.

“It’s OK, buddy,” he half-smiled. “I think my jaw was on the floor when she told me, too.”

“It’s just that I... I didn’t see that coming,” Ethan sighed. “Wow... of all things. So, does it change how you feel?”

Tobias sat back thoughtfully, then shook his head. “I meant what I said; I’d have to be a total dick if I watch porn, but judge someone for making it.”

“Agreed,” Ethan nodded. “And while I’ve never been in porn....”

“Of course you haven’t,” Tobias teased, attempting to add levity to the conversation. “Who the hell would want to see you?”

“And while I’ve never been in porn,” Ethan repeated loudly, ignoring his friend’s interruption. “I understand what it’s like to be poor and not sure if you’ll be able to live your dreams. I’m not advocating nor judging the choices she made... but my advice to you is not to pursue things further unless you can really say you don’t care. She doesn’t deserve to be with someone who will hold it against her, even if it’s subconsciously.”

“I agree,” Tobias replied. “And the truth is, I don’t think I would.”

“There is one other thing to consider,” Ethan injected. “Your family. I don’t know how the Carricks would take to their heir dating a former porn star. Ultimately, it’s not their choice, but...”

“Oh, I’ve given that thought,” Tobias interrupted. “But I’m not exactly proposing; we haven’t gotten nearly to that point. In a way, the idea of pissing them off is rather enticing, but I don’t think that would be fair to her.”

“No, it wouldn’t be. At the end of the day, it’s your choice, but for what it’s worth, this conversation stays between us, and I, for one, won’t think of her any differently than I did this morning, and I certainly wouldn’t judge you.”

Tobias smiled the first genuine smile he had since Stacy had left earlier in the day. “Thanks, buddy. I appreciate you listening.”

The following day, it was Stacy’s turn to open the door to an unexpected visitor. She wasn’t sure if her heart was about to be filled with joy or break when she saw Tobias at the door. Which might be why she couldn’t utter a word.

“May I come in?” he finally asked.

“Yes, of course!” She muttered as he stepped into her front hall.

Noting her puffy eyes, Tobias wanted to put an end to her worrying as quickly as possible; that’s when he pulled the small bunch of flowers he had picked up on his way over from behind his back, and Stacy broke into tears.

“Hey, hey!” He said, pulling her close. “Yeah, they’re supermarket flowers, I could do better next time, but it was kind of an impulse decision.”

“Next time?” she asked with a cracked voice. “So these aren’t a consolation gift when you tell me you never want to see me again.”

“No,” he replied with a kiss to her forehead. “They’re an apology for causing you what I’m sure was a very stressful night. And they come with an invitation – could I take you to dinner tonight?”

“So, you still want to see where this goes?” she smiled.

“I’m willing if you are,” he grinned, and she replied by running into his arms and sealing the deal with a kiss.

“So, where are we going to eat?” he smiled. “Your pick!”

“In that case, order in a pizza and a six-pack,” she beamed. “Because tonight, I want you all to myself.”

A/N 2: OK I feel like some of my Tobias readers will be disappointed because this isn't humorous. But even back in Hopkins, I think he was having a good time, but I don't think he was a total asshole. He wouldn't have judged her, and he would be a hypocrite knowing his body count was definitely much higher than hers. College Tobias? Maybe he would have been a bit more of an ass, but he was mature enough by this point to handle it better.

While I won't write more for the pairing, my HC is that they dated exclusively for a little while, and they were happy during that time. But eventually, split up. Toward the end of med school the competition between Tobias & Ethan was turning toxic, and that colored his world and impacted his decisions (usually, poorly). Further, Ethan and Vincenza had broken up, and Tobias was being her shoulder to lean on. He realized how strong his feelings for Vincenza were, and didn't feel it would be right to string Stacy along. Basically, he wasn't remotely ready for anything like this. Stacy was disappointed, but it was an amicable parting.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

#open heart #open heart fanfics #tobias carrick #tobias carrick x f!oc #choices stories you play #playchoices #playchoices fanfic #open heart choices #ethan ramsey #choices fanfic #choices open heart

38 notes · View notes

mamawasatesttube · 1 year ago

Note

first, I just wanna say the Kon agonies are making me lose my freaking mind!!!! oh my GOD I’m devouring your writing every single time!!!

second, for my actual ask!! I was wondering how you think timkon’s proposal would be like? If you haven’t already told us, I feel like you have but I’m not sure!

thank you thank you!! i love kon and his issues. he has so many of them. (shameless plug for the kon agonies here again <3)

i love to think abt timkon proposal ideas. many possible ways it could go but i FIRMLY believe the one way it Can't go is "traditionally perfect and cliché and romantic". it has to go sideways at least a little. they're both weirdos with an insane general lifestyle. i have several ideas that i think are all really fun, but the baseline is just that there's no way it goes off without a hitch. therefore, i present:

how DO tim and kon get engaged? (one possibility!)

on a very casual chill date night in, while sharing a pizza while hanging out on the couch in their pajamas and watching star trek, they agree they want to get married. they also both agree it'll still be fun to do a proposal.

yeah each of them is now going "hehehe. i'm gonna surprise him with a nice date and i'll romance him as he deserves and then ask him to marry me and he will be swept off his feet!!!"

so. you know. now it's a race.

one weekend, kon takes tim on a lovely romantic date. by the point kon's got him sitting in his lap way up in the sky, twirling wispy clouds around them both into hearts while he points up at stars way overhead, tim is INCREDIBLY suspicious of what's coming (a proposal) and is SO mad because he was going to propose NEXT WEEKEND.

kon's sappy speech gets interrupted by toyman attacking metropolis and tim is like. oh thank god. i mean uhh... wow... FUCK toyman! i'm SO mad about this! meanwhile kon pouts the entire time he's decimating a small army of toy soldiers with real guns. tim finds this adorable.

kon almost still pops the question anyway, but his vanity stops him. his hair got a little singed by a giant firebomb and he's upset about it. he can't propose like this.

next weekend, tim takes kon on a lovely romantic date. when he goes down on one knee in front of a park fountain under a canopy of string lights (very romantic, kon deserves it), kon starts HOLLERING and pulls his ring box out like NO!!! I DID SO GOOD LAST WEEK IM PROPOSING TO YOU!!!!!

tim: NOT IF I GET THERE FIRST. CONNER KENT YOURE THE LOVE OF MY LIFE—

kon: YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!! TIMOTHY JACKSON DRAKE YOURE THE LOVE OF MY LIFE AND IM GONNA PUNT YOU INTO THIS FOUNTAIN IF YOU DONT LET ME PROPOSE TO YOU FIRST—

tim, yelling over him: —AND I'D BE HONORED TO SPEND THE REST OF MY LIFE WITH YOU—

kon tackles him.

they both fall into the fountain.

they both have to hunt for their ring boxes in the fountain.

passerby are staring.

they are in their nice fancy date clothes. on their hands and knees. crawling around in a big ol park fountain. it's cold. they're a mess. please send help

kon finds his ring box first (tim swears up and down that he cheated by ttking tim's box away every time he almost grabbed it) and tackles tim a second time, sits on him in the fountain, and grabs his face.

tim licks him. kon is, shockingly, undeterred.

"TIM," he says, and squishes tim's cheeks. "you're a STUBBORN ASSHOLE. WILL YOU MARRY ME?"

"I'M a stubborn asshole?!" tim demands. it's muffled because his cheeks are still very squished. "god, obviously yes, but you're the jackass, i planned tonight out so well and you hijacked it—"

kon kisses him. tim kisses him back.

tim's ring box mysteriously happens to brush his fingers then. very convenient, thank you, kon.

they exchange rings still sitting there in the cold water under all the lights. tim's teeth are starting to chatter.

passerby are still staring.

they don't care. they're engaged!

and that's the story of how tim drake gets mild hypothermia and kon fusses and frets over him for the rest of the weekend—uhhh I MEAN, the story of how tim and kon get engaged. yippee!!

#answers #rockstar-robin #timkon #i also think its very easy for ti to be a super lowkey casual affair #and i ALSO love the idea of a world-ending cataclysmic space battle for the pirates of the caribbean style proposal/wedding #but i think the comedy zone is just really fun. i like it when theyre silly #tim #kon #rambles

111 notes · View notes

intheholler · 1 year ago

Note

reading an article for a class (appalachian studies) and i kept being reminded of u

https://www.guernicamag.com/lost-in-a-misgendered-appalachia/

[positive] [with no foul intent] [its a good article]

i have read this article a few times since you sent it in and i still don't exactly know how to express my thoughts on it.

first: amen

second: yall literally have no idea how it makes me feel when you say somethin appalachian-related reminded yall of me. for real <3333

third: time to get long winded and sentimental, because i've never considered it this way, but it's so true. when i think of appalachia, i dont think about lifted trucks and gun shows.

i think about my badass grandma who was a fiery divorced, sex-positive, weed smoking, unapologetic feminist in her day and who didn't take no shit from no mountain men.

i think about my gospel loving, soft spoken mama who loudly loved jesus, a woman anyone would write off as an average "southern christian white lady" on the surface. how she didn't bat an eye when i nervously told her i was gay as a preteen. i think about how she hugged me and told me how much she loved me, how not everyone was gonna be nice about it or understand but that i was going to be safe and it was gonna be okay. how when i was a kid she stood up to that fire n brimstone southern baptist preacher and got us the fuck out of there.

i think about one of my best friends in high school, a visibly queer butch lesbian in our tiny bible beating western NC town. how fucking brave and cool she was for being one of maybe three "out" queers at school and so visibly queer at that. i think about how she got married to a pretty girl last year in that same town.

i think about two of my close friends who had to grow up so heartbreakingly fast, a pair of sisters who were at the time so young but selflessly spent their free time caring for their terminally ill mother by themselves up in their lonely holler without ever lodging a complaint

i think about my sister who dropped everything to raise me when she was only 23, breaking her back and making shit work because no one else was gonna make it work for us. i think about how one of my great aunts literally cleaned out her bedroom to furnish mine when she learned i was sleepin on a shitty couch in a cold basement.

i think about my other great aunt who apologizes for absolutely no part of who she was and holds fast to her beliefs no matter what. i think about her filling her house with the warm smell of soup beans and biscuits that were gonna feed the whole family when they come later.

when i think about appalachia, i think about the women in my life. appalachia is divine and it is absolutely divinely feminine. it's the heart of these hills and patriarchy taints it like it does everything fuckin else.

as an aside, i really loved this section here. it was kind of empowering:

Despite our region’s diversity and passionate socialist and pro-union roots, many have bought into the capitalist terms and definitions inflicted upon us. The religiosity of the place exacerbates this messaging, and the prevalence of evangelical Christianity in rural hollers means we often internalize toxic ideas about ourselves. Or perhaps we have simply tired of fighting to be seen. The pressure of religious and economic patriarchy, particularly in an exploited region like this one, means we live inside a perpetually loaded question. Nothing is more exhausting than trying to prove you exist. But the consequences of surrendering are stark: worsening wealth gaps, lost histories, continued erasures of diverse people and ecosystems. To live in Appalachia nowadays is to live with our failure to break down systemic racism, and with our complicity in the abuse of our bodies, labor, and land by unregulated corporations and himbo charlatans.

whew, okay. anyway, thanks for sending this in <33 it really made me think. yall should check it out. it's a long read but its worth every syllable!

#asks #appalachian culture #appalachia #txt

52 notes · View notes

wispstalk · 1 year ago

Text

20 questions for writers

under the cut. Thanks to @everybodyknows-everybodydies for tagging🖤

Tagging back: @nuwanders @jiubilant @ervona @ehlnofay @druidx @blossom-adventures @sylvienerevarine @throughtrialbyfire @da3drat no pressure

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

Five

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

198327

3. What fandoms do you write for?

Just elder scrolls. I have a feeling that's gonna be it for me. I've been tempted to write stardew valley fic lately which would perhaps be classed as "crack" (I know what that is in theory but the way people use it makes no sense to me) but I took a cursory look at the tag and I don't think the stardew valley fandom is ready for a ray fic lmao

4. What are your top five fics by kudos?

Well. I have five.

5. Do you respond to comments?

I try 🫠 it haunts me how often I've left my beloved mutuals on read..... but if that's u and I did, I am telepathically beaming this: !!!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Making out sloppy style etc etc

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

lol. lmao even

7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

.....within AO3 I guess it's "Morning" but also that's set at a refugee camp? I will say the skyrim story will have a more peaceful ending but up until now fic writing has been an outlet for my thwarted rage and covid brain damage soooo

8. Do you get hate on fics?

I mean this is generally a culture of positive feedback. Someone did yell at me once for hitting martin septim with the transgender beam which is a level of no-life-havin loserdom which could be classed as "hate" but came off as pure cope and seethe

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

I really bristle at the word smut sorry its too cutesy. I was a prodomme for seven years I don't do euphemisms lol. I wrote a sex scene into IITT to see how I felt about writing sex scenes. I learned that I am only interested in writing them if they serve specific functions. I have absolutely zero judgment toward anyone who wants to write about fuckin and suckin, that's just not why I'm here

10. Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written?

No but recently my household watched game of thrones together and my bf and his brother were cracking jokes like what if one of these medieval characters had a gundam. Neither of them read fic so I was like don't be too entertained by yourselves. I bet that has been written. looked it up on ao3 and sure as shit

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

I'm not gonna lie I did find a fic where someone very obviously ripped me off but I don't wanna call them out. One specific instance where they bit my style was so clumsily applied as to be obvious, but their prose in general was fantastic so like. who care.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Not as far as I know but that would make me holler

13. Have you ever co-written a fic?

Nope. I'm not opposed to the idea but it's hard to imagine how I'd do this given my process. I think I'd be pretty difficult to work with

14. What's your all-time favorite ship?

?!? I dunno I don't have one. I put a lot of effort into writing martinhok but I could not say that one, due to how overwhelmingly heterosexual the tag is. I'm sorry but can everyone who's not a faggot please pipe down

15. What's a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

I have my moments with the skyrim wip. I've signed myself up for something pretty complicated and challenging but I also learned that I can finish things so I'm not really worried about it. The fact of the matter is: I do not care if this is good. It matters that it is done so I can move on with my life. If parts of it are boring and overlong that's yalls problem

16. What are your writing strengths?

I get a lot of compliments on my worldbuilding. I do think a lot about the minutiae of material culture and think I have a talent for incorporating detail in engaging ways

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

I'm a cornball. This is a corny activity. I don't really care because I'm doing it for free. Enjoy the unsolicited view into an internet stranger's terrible psyche

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

I try to apply with a light hand. I'm a dumbass sheltered American and I can mostly make myself understood in a Spanish-speaking country but that's about it. I like playing around with language and the idea of multilingual societies matters to me so I include it, but I'm not a linguist so I try to work within my limits. Whether I am successful at this is up to others.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

Elder scrolls. Never felt compelled until i spent a winter playing oblivion and went wow this game has an incredibly bleak narrative behind a silly aesthetic. Oops now I'm in a lore pit

20. Favorite fic you've written?

The Nature of Fire is my best prose hands down. I'm gonna be real with y'all I am desperate for people to read it. It is genuinely the best I can do at this point and if you like what I've done so far, well, whatever u read sucks compared to this fic.

24 notes · View notes

seenoversundown · 2 years ago

Text

Affirmation

Jake Kiszka x Charlotte (OC)

Warnings: Fluff! (otherwise n/a)

Word Count: 2k

This Must Be The Place - Talking Heads “Home is where I want to be But I guess I’m already there”

I awoke to the feeling of Jake curled around my back like a kitten.

These were my favorite mornings, the slight chill of the autumn air being held at bay by the absolute love of my life. Sharing warmth and skin in our own little bubble, undisturbed by the outside world.

We’ve been together long enough that our circadian rhythms were in sync. When one of us begins to stir, the other is sure to follow.

I felt Jake nuzzle in closer behind me, wrapping his arm tighter around my middle.

“Call out today, Red” he mumbled out in a gravely voice, thick with sleep.

I let out a small chuckle, as I turned in his arms to look into his eyes.

“We have this conversation every morning, Jacob.”

He plants a sleepy kiss to my waiting lips

“But, I really mean it this time. Let’s go on an adventure.”

I thought about it for a second. I rarely call out, even if I am actually sick. And with his job, Jake and I hardly get to spend time together during daylight hours.

“Well, if you really mean it, how could I say no?” I pressed a featherlight kiss to his forehead, before lightly shoving his shoulder,

“You’re on coffee duty, though.”

Huffing out a long, dramatic sigh, he got up and shuffled into the kitchen.

________________________

We walked hand-in-hand down the damp cobblestone streets, the sounds of the harbor serving as background noise for our contented silence.

When Jake promised me an adventure this morning, I didn’t think he meant “window shopping for the bar.”

I was more than happy to tag alongthough. Few things made me happier than watching him get excited about his work.

I loved seeing his eyes light up every time we stumbled upon something that he felt would make the bar he owned and managed with his brothers just slightly more welcoming.

I was completely transfixed by him, as we stood outside of a shop that sold vintage cookware. He was in a quiet conversation with himself, debating the merits of switching to an all cast iron set up for the kitchen.

I couldn’t help but stare. The way the light hit his hair, almost giving it a copper tint. The way he rubbed his free hand against his mouth, his brow furrowed in concentration.

He truly was beautiful and I still don’t know how I got so lucky to stumble across him.

I felt him lightly squeeze my hand, tearing me out of my thoughts.

“Ya hear me, honey?”

A faint blush painted my cheeks, as I shook my head ‘no.’

“I said that I think we should head over there” he nodded his head toward an occult shop across the street.

He’d always been the (far more) spiritual counterpart to my skeptical self.

“For what, Jacob?”

“Been thinking about getting some authentic spooky shit for The Bar for Halloween”

I let out a laugh,

“Let’s just stop at Target. I’m sure they have something sufficiently spooky.”

“That’s not very adventurous of you.”

I rolled my eyes and gave him a mock salute

“Aye Aye, Captain, lead the way.”

________________________

The bell on the door chimed as we entered the shop. We were immediately greeted by the smell of freshly lit incense.

“Welcome to Garden’s Gate!”

The woman behind the counter greeted us warmly, gesturing at the floor to ceiling shelves that lined the walls around the store.

“Take a look around, and holler if you have questions. I think you’ll find that we have something here for everyone.”

She said the last part to me directly.

Good Lord, does she have some type of Skeptic Detector?

We thanked her, and went our separate ways to explore.

Jake made his way deeper into the store, while I stuck close to the front.

The section I was perusing was, lovingly, I think, dubbed the “Baby Witch” area.

The shelves were filled with books on all topics of occultism, journals, pre-bundled herbs, and basic “supplies.”

However, I found myself gravitating toward the small table of crystals that were set out.

My hands flitted across several before settling on a small, pink tumbled stone that seemed almost out of place amongst the larger, raw stones that sat beside it.

I picked it up, rubbing my fingers along the smooth edges, getting lost in the feel of it in my hand.

“Rose quartz,” I startled at Jake’s voice.

Where did he come from?

He wrapped his arms around my waist, pressing a quick kiss to the top of my head before continuing

“A very romantic stone. Associated with the planet Venus and by extension Libra and Taurus. Thinking about me, are you?”

I rolled my eyes, setting the rose quartz back down. “Maybe I just thought it was pretty, Jacob.”

“Nah, I think it was fate, Red.”

I turned to face him, noticing that he had set a small basket filled with “authentically spooky” items on the ground beside us.

“Ready to head out?” I asked, nodding my head to the basket.

“Mhm”

He laced his fingers with mine before leading me to the front counter.

Jake made small-talk with the woman behind the counter as she rang him up and bagged his items.

She looked into my eyes, as she handed Jake his bag and receipt,

“Y’know. I don’t typically do this, but I’d love to give you a reading, free of charge.”

“Oh, I don’t know. That sounds like it’s more his thing…” I smiled awkwardly

“That may be true, but the universe doesn’t have any messages for him right now.”

I shifted back and forth on my feet, thinking for a moment.

What’s the harm? I don’t believe in this crap anyway.

“Okay, I guess”

“Perfect! Follow me.” She walked out from behind the counter, flipping the Open sign to Closed, then led us to the back of the store, opening an unassuming door and practically shoving us inside.

At the center of the dimly lit room, there was a table set up with chairs on either side of it.

In the middle of the burgundy crushed velvet tablecloth sat a deck of tarot cards and a half-burned white taper candle.

“I truly don’t normally do this. I prefer to schedule readings in advance to avoid having to shut the store down in the middle of the day,”

The shopkeeper let out a laugh and invited us to have a seat while she busied herself with lighting the candle and shuffling the cards,

“However, the second you walked in the store, I knew I had to do a reading for you.”

“That’s… interesting”

She stopped shuffling and asked me to cut the deck into 3 separate stacks, then began shuffling the stacks into each other again.

Why am I so nervous?

I glanced toward Jake, and he squeezed my hand reassuringly.

She finally set the deck down.

“Before I get started, I want you to take a few deep breaths and try to clear your mind. Picture yourself breathing in positivity, and exhaling negativity. Let me know when you’re ready.”

I huffed out a small laugh, but closed my eyes and did as she requested.

On each inhale I thought of everything I had to be thankful for, and on each exhale I sent out all my doubts, worries, and insecurities.

“I think I’m ready.” I opened my eyes to find her already staring back at me.

“Great! I’ll explain as I go, but I do feel called to do a Past/Present/Future spread for you. So, the first card I pull will represent your past; what you’ve overcome and what you’ve grown from. The second card I pull will represent your present; where you are currently at, areas that may still need work. The third card I pull will represent your future; where you will be, and what you have to look forward to.”

I nodded along with her, as she placed her right hand on the deck and took a deep breath.

I instinctively leaned forward in my chair as she flipped three cards over in rapid succession.

She studied them for a moment before glancing quickly between Jake and me, smiling

“Your interest in the Rose Quartz makes sense, now”

I raised an eyebrow, looking down at the cards before me.

“This one right here, your Past, is the Two of Swords,” she pointed to each sword, then the blindfolded woman between them

“She is…well- was, in your case, at an impasse. Stuck between two choices; your heart and your head. You wanted nothing more than to be loved, and to share your love freely in return. But the logical side of you wouldn’t allow that. You can correct me if I’m wrong, but I feel like your hesitation was related to a much larger issue. Possibly your family or your career?”

I found myself nodding along, despite my better judgment. I didn’t want to give her too much information to work with.

“This leads us into your Present, the Two of Cups. The man and woman here are fairly self explanatory. It’s obvious what choice you made in your past,, I want to focus on this back here,”

She points at the symbol between the man and woman, each holding a cup, on the card.

I’ve seen this before. It’s used in the medical field.

“This symbol is a Caduceus. It’s the symbol of Hermes, the messenger of the gods in Greek mythology. Hermes, being a messenger, also ruled over Communication. This card showing up in your present means that you’ve found a good foundation with your partner, and you’re able to clearly communicate your wants and desires with them. Because of this partnership, you’re able to ‘fill each other’s cups.” Neither of you take more than is offered, nor do you expect it. It’s very mutually beneficial.”

I nodded, and caught Jake nodding along this time as well.

“Finally, for your Future, we have The Four of Wands. This is an absolutely beautiful card to see in a reading like this,”

She points, first, to the couple joyfully dancing underneath a wreath.

“They are symbolic of a well deserved period of joy. Instead of the calm before the storm, think about right after the storm, when the birds come back out from their hiding places to greet the sun. Your future will be full of that love and happiness if you continue on the path that you are on now.”

Shethen, pointed to the four wands that held the wreath the couple was dancing beneath.

“These symbolize all the little foundations that you’ve built so far, and the ones you will continue to build. If you continue to nourish them, they will be fruitful,”

She finally points out the Castle in the background.

“And this is the fruit of all the labor you’ll put in. This is your home, where you belong.”

I sat there for a second, my head spinning.

There’s absolutely no way this wasn’t planned. She has to have some special romance deck hidden away, full of fairytale cards, waiting for women like me to come in.

“That’s all I have for you, today. I hope it was helpful, or reassuring at the very least. Now, if you’ll excuse me, the shop won’t run itself.”

She stood, snuffing the candle and opening the door for us.

“I do hope to see you two lovebirds back in here.”

Jake and I stood and began making our way to the exit, thanking the woman as we crossed the threshold.

“Can you believe that? What a load of nonsense.” I looked at Jake as the shop door closed behind us.

“Sounds like you’re trying to convince yourself of that, Honey.” He smiled at me, then dragged me into the alleyway beside the shop.

He pressed my back into the brick wall behind us, pressing hot, open mouthed kisses up my neck.

“What are you doing, Jacob?” It came out breathier than I intended.

“Why don’t I take you home and prove to you just how right she was about us?”

I squirmed against him as he nipped at my jaw.

“By all means.”

Masterlist | Taglist

#greta van fleet #greta van fic #gvf #gvf one shot #greta van fluff #jake kiska fic #jake kiszka x reader #jake kiszka fanfic #jake gvf #jake kiszka #jake kiszka x charlotte #gvfhalloweenfics.#jake kiszka x oc #sam gvf #sammy gvf #josh gvf #josh kiszka #danny wagner #danny gvf

36 notes · View notes