#House of Negroni

[byroniuspunk]

Negroni

[spirit-meets-the-b0ne]

It's always "team green this" or "team black that" when all we should really be talking about is, in a few short weeks we will have Olivia and Emma back together being absolutely feral on a press tour for season 2 AND IT IS ALL THAT MATTERS!!!

[hotdaemondtargaryen]

fabien frankel joking about doing an upcoming special skincare project with matt smith called 'consort' by frankel and smith, and while emma d'arcy and olivia cooke close the negroni deal.

[soyboywenzie]

man oh man i cannot wait for darksvster to leak the scripts for this season my gGODS

[alltoounwellll]

(ง'̀-'́)ง : me getting ready to fight Emma D’Arcy’s partner for their hand in marriage

[ladywildwood]

opened a Sketch file for work and was transported to last October

[midnightfantasiez]

Play With Me | Octoberfest Day 10

➺ Pairing - senior!Hyunjae x f!reader

➺ Drink - Negroni with a hint of amaretto (acquaintance x breeding)

➺ Summary - Lee Hyunjae was known to be the campus heartthrob and is literally the perfect guy to ever exist. Little did you know that he was hiding something behind that lovable smile of his that you have grown to love and admire.

➺ Word Count - 1,366

➺ Warnings - Smut (18+, minors DNI), frat parties yayzers, cursing, alcohol consumption, unprotected sex, clothed sex, dirty talk, rough sex, petnames (sweetheart, princess), blowjob, cum tasting, hair pulling, Hyunjae is lowkey a little sadist here (don't read if triggering!!)

➺ Author’s note - dedicating this one to the number one mirae @daisyvisions 💗 happiest birthday daisy i'll never forget the day how i went from being one of your biggest fan / reader to mutuals like it's still so bizarre to me and look at us being besties now huhu 🥺 (here's to more chaos & funsies yay!!) ngl yall i struggled a bit with this prompt bcs idk if i executed the scenario well so pls bear with me 😭

➺ Taglist - @deoboyznet @kflixnet @k-films @flwoie @mamuljji @synthwxve @j4edo @h0mebody-heaven @tinkerbell460 @nyu-topia @jaminthemiddle @kyaroscuro @daisyvisions @momhwa-agenda @snowflakewhispers (join my permanent taglist here!)

➺ OctoberFest Masterlist | Main Masterlist

You were having second-hand thoughts about agreeing to even step out of your apartment for the night.

The semester had just ended, and your roommates convinced you that it would be best to let loose for the night and attend a frat party hosted by the seniors for the night. As if it wasn’t horrible enough that you weren’t too much of a social butterfly, but hanging out with the guys that were one year ahead of you didn’t sound too comfortable for your liking. 

However, your roommates had opinions that contradicted yours—saying that older guys are much better than the ones you have in your classes. They seem to be a lot more mature and are aware of their actions most of the time—often avoiding things that would paint them as immature and get them into trouble. 

Reluctantly, you had no choice but to agree as your roommates literally dragged you out of your room and down the block. Immediately, your eyes landed on the scene before you—a house packed with students drinking to their hearts' content and partying like it was nobody’s business.

Slowly, you had to squirm your way into the actual party to get yourself a drink. After all, you were thirsty, and hanging out by the drink station seemed safer than navigating through the house. Just as you expected, your roommates immediately blended into the crowd and were nowhere to be seen. But you couldn’t blame them—they were pretty active on the campus party scene.

Just as you were browsing through the selection of alcohol to satisfy your thirst, you suddenly felt a warm breath on your neck as you turned around abruptly and ready to give whoever it was a lecture. 

“Fucking hell! Did your mother never teach you how not to be a creep!?”

Immediately, you started to regret screaming at the top of your lungs when you realised who it was that had gotten your attention. It was Lee Hyunjae—one of the campus heartthrobs that everyone swoons over. 

You have always admired his good looks, just like everyone else, but seeing him up close in person immediately gave you butterflies in your stomach—making you think about how this person could be real. 

If it weren’t for one of your roommates who just happened to be part of the student council with Hyunjae, you would’ve never got to know who he was. Sure, you have only spared glances and said a few greetings because you would come to pick up your roommate whenever she had to stay a little longer on campus, but that was pretty much it. 

That was why you were taken aback when Hyunjae said your name for the first time with his sweet voice. “Y/N, right? Never expected to see you here.”

“Well umm, Savannah dragged me here. I didn’t have a choice,” you bluntly replied.

“Definitely can see her doing that,” he chuckled before he started going through the liquors on the table and pouring different liquids into a glass as he handed it to you. “Care for a drink?” 

You hesitated for a bit, but the male reassured you that he had no ill intentions while making it. Slowly, you took in a sip and closed your eyes tightly as the alcohol slowly flowed down your throat. It has been a while since you have had something this strong down your system.

“W-What is this?” 

“A good-old Homely Smoke cocktail, definitely fitting for a girl like you,” he winks. 

As much as that flirtatious wink of his made you feel a little uncomfortable, you had to admit that you were glad that he made you something sweet instead of a bitter one because you were not ready to puke in front of everyone for the night. 

“Damn, is there anything you can’t do? An alcohol connoisseur and part of the student council? A rather deadly combo if you ask me,” you teased before taking another big sip of your drink.

Suddenly, Hyunjae hesitated for a moment before he closed his distance between you both, leaning down to whisper into your ear. “Actually, that’s not all that I’m good at.” 

“Oh yeah? Show me what else you are capable of, then.”

“I’m not sure if you can take it, sweetheart.” 

You were provoked, and you weren’t going down without a fight. You slowly pushed him up so that you were staring right back at him, responding to his challenge with a smirk.

“Try me.” 

Maybe you should’ve been more careful with your words, and provoking the senior himself wasn’t the brightest idea in your books. Because now you find yourself lying on one of the beds in one of the empty bedrooms in the house with your legs placed over Hyunjae’s shoulder as he thrusts his cock within you. 

The senior wasted no time crashing his alcohol-filled lips onto yours, kissing you feverishly as he swiftly moved you to one of the nearest bedrooms from the pantry and threw you straight onto the bed. He wasted no time in lifting your skirt and unbuckled his pants before rubbing his tip against your clit for a few moments before pushing his entire length in. 

It seemed that he wanted to get to the bottom of this real quick, to the point that he didn’t care if he was sweating through the tight black tank top that he was wearing—he needed to fuck you right now. 

“You said you can take me, didn’t you?” He panted as he made that remark against you, enjoying the look that was plastered across your face as you whimpered underneath him.

“H-Hyunjae…I’m sorry…”

“An apology, huh? Maybe I’ll forgive you if you can continue to hold it longer for me,” he growled as he pinned both of your hands above your head before lowering his body slightly to thrust deeper within you.

His cock slowly and roughly reached certain places within you that you never knew existed, eventually hitting your g-spot, making you yelp in agony. 

“Hyunjae! I can’t!” You screamed as you balled your hands into fists, trying your best to break apart from his grip, but to no avail. 

“Come on, princess. I’m just getting started,” he mocks before picking his pace up. “Tell me, how badly do you want me?”

“Hnngh…d-don’t stop…p-please…keep going…” you begged as you felt tears slowly dripping down from the side of your eyes down your cheeks. 

Oh, how badly Hyunjae loved that sight of you. 

“You want me? You want me to fill your pussy up with my cum to the point that it oozes out and drips down your thighs?”

“Y-Yes…please…I need it…”

“Louder, princess.”

“Y-YES!! CUM INSIDE HYUNJAE!!” 

With those last words, his grip on your wrists and legs tightened to the point you felt his nails digging into your skin as he made his few final thrusts before you both eventually came together. You were feeling a good amount of liquid dripping down your thighs as you came down from your high. 

But before you could even process the thought that you had just fucked your senior right here and then, Hyunjae immediately pulled you up and shoved his cock into your mouth—forcing you to clean up every single drip of his cum with your tongue.

“You said you can take me, princess. It’s your job to finish every last drop of what you made me do to you.”

Hyunjae grabbed your hair and pushed you in deeper each second, not giving you any room to take a breather. He made sure you swallowed everything before finally pulling you apart to lean down and give you a little kiss.

Just when you thought it’d all be over, he suddenly flips you around and makes you get down on all fours onto the bed before he adjusts his cock once again on your clit. Before he decided to continue with his little games, he moved forward to whisper again in your ears—making your eyes widen before giving you the biggest challenge you’ve experienced just yet. 

“You know, the sudden thought of seeing little miniature versions of us both running around our future apartment doesn’t sound so bad after all.” 

[cwritesforfun]

Hi!!

So, I'm so desperate for a Emma D'arcy x Fem Reader fic!!

Pleeeasee

Ok here you go: hope you enjoy!!!

Emma D'Arcy x Fem!Reader: Co-Workers or Something More? (Request)

Y/N = Your Name using She/Her/Hers pronouns Emma's pronouns are They/Them ** I do not own any House of Dragon plot points briefly mentioned

Y/N's POV

Getting the role of Alicent on House of Dragon was nerve-wracking. You were a huge fan of Game of Thrones and even read all the released books. You've been working for years towards getting a role in any TV show or movie. You have been in some indie films and when you got the call to be Alicent, you thought you were dreaming. It was amazing. It was probably one of your favorite days to ever exist.

At the table read for the first season, you were pouring a cup of coffee for yourself when you heard, "So you're playing Alicent?" You turn and see someone beautiful staring at you. You felt lost in their soft blue eyes for years if you could. You instead say, "Yes I am, my name is Y/N. Nice to meet you, what's your name?" The person standing opposite you says, "It's lovely to meet you, Y/N. Y/N is such a beautiful name. I'm Emma D'Arcy and I'm playing Rhaenyra." You reply, "Emma is a beautiful name for a beautiful person. Rhaenyra is a Targaryen, so I am jealous." Emma lets out a laugh and says, "I'm flattered. Say, do you want to grab a bite to eat after this?" You nod and answer, "Sounds great." You both take your seats next to each other, and the table read begins. It lasts several hours.

Afterward, you and Emma make your way out to a restaurant that claims to have great cocktails. You arrive, get seated in a booth, and both order drinks. Emma orders a Negroni Sbagliato with prosecco in it and you order a Gin Martini with a twist. (If you know, you know.)

The night carries on with you two discussing your career, your lack of a love life, and dragons. It's a great night with even better company.

The next 10 months as you film season 1, you become close with the cast, especially Emma. You both hang out outside of filming time and you really like Emma. You find yourself dreaming of Emma some nights and you can barely meet their eyes. It's so embarrassing to have a crush, especially on a coworker. Emma also flirts when they get drunk and it's always directed to you. You don't know if they're just drunk or actually like you.

Season One finishes filming and the whole cast is at an open bar. You're sitting sipping your second gin martini and you are starting to feel tipsy. You hear, "Is this seat taken?" You see Emma standing there in all their glory and you shake your head. Emma sits next to you, leans back, and puts an arm around the back of your seat. Should you lean back... or what...? You lean back and Emma's hand finds your shoulder. Emma exclaims, "I was wondering if you were going to move closer." You reply, "Sorry, what was that? I keep getting lost in your eyes, what too cheesy?" Emma laughs and asks, "Is that why you've been avoiding me on set?" You shrug and answer, "Yes, you exist in my daily life and in my dreams. It's hard to look at you after I dream about you." Emma raises an eyebrow, places their other hand on your thigh, smirks, and asks, "And what are we doing in those dreams, may I ask?" You place one of your hands on Emma's hand on your thigh and answer, "Oh you know hot stuff." Emma smiles and asks, "Wanna get out of here?" You nod.

You both leave the party together and head to Emma's place.

When you get there, Emma complains about being hungry so you agree to cook with them. You both cook pasta, listen to music, and dance together. You both eat dinner so fast while laughing whenever you make eye contact.

You both walk to the couch and Emma asks, "Just a question, but when you said hot stuff in your dream with me, does that mean you have a crush on me?" You answer, "It's so embarrassing being a 30-year-old with a crush, but yes I do like you like that." Emma says, "I think the only embarrassing thing would be if I didn't feel the same way... I like you too. I really like you. I want to kiss you, but I know we're both really tipsy." You reply, "We can still kiss tipsy. I give my consent." Emma smirks and replies, "I think if we kiss, I won't be able to stop." You smirk and ask, "OK then what should we do?" Emma answers, "We could just watch a show or sleep."

You both watch a part of a movie until you both start falling asleep and waking each other up. You go to the bedroom to sleep and you wear one of Emma's shirts to bed. Emma is the big spoon and cuddles you as you drift off to sleep.

You wake up cozy and with a raging headache. You groan and twist a little. You hear Emma groan next to you and they say, "Morning. Is it just me or did those drinks really break your head?" You say, "I'm in pain. Yeah... but I liked waking up next to you." Emma replies, "I liked waking up to you too. You're a good cuddle buddy."

You both get up, you borrow clothes from Emma, and you go out to eat breakfast. You eat breakfast sandwiches and start to feel like a human. You go back to Emma's place, get back into pajamas, and turn on the TV to watch something.

Emma exclaims, "Let's kiss." You smile and say, "OK." Emma cups your face gently and you kiss. It's even better than in your dreams when you kiss them.

Part Two

[moonshynecybin]

thinking about pool boy Marc at the ranch, world where he only does MX but never met the right sponsors so he has to work to be able to pay for competitions / the repairs on his bike

and like, this is supposed to be about Marc working shirtless and Valentino looking™️ when he shouldn’t be and Marc noticing and enjoying it way more than he would ever admit (32 yo Marc is way more confident than 20 yo Marc but whatever, details) but cue a scene where Marc ends up staring at the bikes where they’re stored (was initially looking for something for the pool / something was wrong with the pump / anything to get him there and distracted at the view), his hands maybe hovering over one, and Valentino finding him there (and obviously offering him to ride)

OOOH yeah i think its interesting if like. we tip a toe into a scenario where marc is attempting to subsidize his racing hobby (diplopia set him back maybe? its hard when hes such a goddamn prodigy but maybe his family didnt have the cash/sponsors fell through/bad injury timing. some unlucky little thing) by doing some modeling/odd jobs all with a theme best described as “BABY SLUT” and hes tearing upppp the MX amatuer classes but maybe still isnt. quite financially liquid enough to stop working his modelling jobs. and then vale is drunk and horny and bisexual SOMETIMES ! and books this sorta. comical sex kitten pool boy thing to work a party that hes throwing at the ranch as a bit. and it comes down the wire contracted out to marc's modeling agency and he looks at it. and is like is that valentino fucking rossi's house. and then before he can blink or think to call alex he puts his fucking BID INNNN and hops that comped flight to italy #yay

flash forward to this eurotrash ass tacky (vale djing like a noodle bent over the booth) shindig where marc is like. idk hes in a speedo casting his psycho killer big brown eyes around the ranch serving canapes covered in glitter. classy stuff. looks fucking GOOD and he knows it. freshly waxed ass insane abs cut smile HUGE. b-lines over to serve vale (hes a go getter. it’s that marc thing where his oblivious sorta. no malicious arrogance comes off as charming) a fucking. caviar scallop carrot reduction thing and vale FULLY double takes like what the fuckkkk because as we all know marc is his exact physical type AND as we've all been reminded fairly recently he is VERY comfortable in his own skin and in this scenario in a speedo where you can see 3/4 to 4/5 of his entire cock and balls through the fabric. so safe to say vale is distracted.

the OTHER thing about marc is that while we’ve plopped him into this slutty ass cinderella story, he is also NOT shy whatsoever so he’s just like hi :3 and they flirt cheerfully for several minutes (vale: how is life as a poolboy? marc: oh you know. we have fun jajajaja) but after a sec marc gets pulled away bc hes literally at work lmao and then immediatelyyyyy vale sucks down the rest of his negroni like a whirlpool and is like okay well. goodbye everybody ive got to go suddenly and mysteriously get more scallop caviar carrot bites because ive decided that i love them specifically for no particular immediate reason ! (cruising for penis) and they have a nice little horny talk/makeout/yap session/maybe some light over the pants stuff in the back room of the party while marc’s supervisor is like where the fuck did that kid goooo…. but then the clock strikes midnight and marc has a race in the morning so he booked the red eye back to spain and hes gotta leave !!!!! so he peels off the speedo and puts on a hoodie, and maybe he doesn’t get to say goodbye to vale bc he’s running late and he ran outta time but he walks outta that place fucking FLOATING all the way to the airport and wins his race not realizing that vale spent the rest of the night harassing staff members to get marc's information on the DL by being like ahhh i think he would be a good match for my friend she is a nice girl. and all of marc's coworkers are like dude hes gay. and vale’s like well he would be a nice match for my other friend he is a nice boy.

and then when that doesn’t work vale books the service again. and finds out somehow that marc has his motorcycle license (but not that he does MX. ignoring the huge scab on marc’s elbow i guess). and offers to bring marc out on one of his bikes for a cool lap around the track you know. just for fun. vale voice i'll ride with you it'll be safe :) and THATS when things get interesting

[multi-fandom-imagine]

[ negroni ] - Alɑn Grɑnt.

A/n: Can't get enough of this man

[ negroni ] - for date night, they head to a more upscale establishment than usual and dress up for the occasion

Alan Grant didn't do fancy, he'd rather spend his days at a dig site but for you. For you he would make an acceptation. It was a prefect summer evening, a light breeze drifting through the streets as you and Alan strolled arm in arm to the restaurant.The upscale establishment was a significant departure from your usual casual haunts, but tonight was special. Alan had insisted on making reservations, and judging by the slight flush of pride on his face, it seemed he was as excited about the evening as you were.

Your hand squeezing his as a smile formed on your lips glancing up at him, his suit impeccably tailored yet comfortable enough to suit his unpretentious style. The dark navy fabric contrasted perfectly with his tan complexion, a reminder of all the time he spent under the sun during digs. His silver hair was neatly combed back, though a rogue strand had already fallen free, softening his usually rugged appearance. His signature hat left at home, just for you.

“You clean up nicely, Dr. Grant,” you teased as your lips grazed his cheek.

Alan smirked, glancing down at you. “I could say the same about you. You might just outshine this whole restaurant.”

You let out a soft laugh, a warm sound that seemed to loosen the faint tension in his shoulders as his gaze fixated on you, watching how your hair fell past your shoulders.Compliments weren’t his forte, but the sincerity in his voice made warmth spreed across your chest.

The restaurant loomed ahead, its entrance marked by soft golden lights and a valet waiting to greet guests. Inside, the air was filled with a low hum of conversation, the soft clinking of glasses, and the occasional tinkling of piano keys. The ambiance was intimate yet polished, the kind of place where a Negroni was considered a house specialty rather than an afterthought.

Alan glancing around nervously as his free hand ran through his hair messing the once slicked back strands. Your gaze softened as you then wove your fingers through his. "Alan...we don't have to do this you know...I'll be happy with some burgers."

Blinking, Alan shook his head then brought your hands to his lips. "Nonsense...I can do this. I'll be fine...I can handle a few fancy people for you."

Giving you a smile, Alan pulled out your chair as you settled at the table, a small gesture that made your heart swell. Though he was a man of science, often preoccupied with fossils and theories, he never failed to ground himself when it came to you. He always found a way to make you feel like the center of his world.

“Fancy, huh?” he murmured, leaning back in his chair with an easy smile as he scanned the menu.

“Very fancy,” you agreed, picking up your own menu. “But I like seeing you in this kind of setting. You’re like a fish out of water—just a little bit.”

“Let’s hope I don’t end up like one,” he quipped, setting the menu down. “I’m trusting you with the drink order. I assume you’re the expert on these… upscale concoctions?”

You grinned and motioned for the waiter. “Two Negronis, please.”

Alan arched an eyebrow. “Negronis? You’re not ordering wine?”

“Trust me,” you said, a mischievous gleam in your eye. “You’ll like it besides I never had one so I alway's wanted to try it.” You winked.

When the drinks arrived, Alan inspected his glass with mild suspicion. The vibrant orange liquid, garnished with a twist of citrus, was unlike anything he typically ordered. You raised your glass in a toast, waiting for him to follow suit.

“To stepping outside of our comfort zones,” you said.

“To whatever this is,” he replied, clinking his glass against yours before taking a cautious sip. His eyebrows lifted slightly as the bitter-sweet flavors unfolded. “Not bad. Strong.”

“Like you,” you teased, taking a sip of your own. “I knew you could handle it.”

Alan chuckled, his expression softening. The initial stiffness he carried when entering the restaurant had all but disappeared now, replaced by the easy confidence you adored. You fell into conversation, the kind that meandered from topic to topic effortlessly, punctuated by laughter and the occasional playful jab.

By the time dessert arrived—a decadent chocolate tart you both agreed to share—Alan leaned back in his chair, his tie slightly loosened, and his drink half-finished. He studied you in the candlelight, a glint of something tender in his eyes.

“This was a good idea,” he said, his voice quieter now. “You know, I don’t do this sort of thing often.”

“That’s why it’s special,” you replied, smiling softly. “You deserve special.”

He reached across the table, his hand warm and calloused as it rested over yours. “I don’t say it enough, but… I’m lucky. Lucky you put up with me, my work, my quirks. Nights like this make me realize how much I have to be grateful for.”

The sincerity in his words left you momentarily breathless. Alan wasn’t one to speak from the heart easily, but when he did, it was like uncovering a rare treasure—something profound and worth holding onto.

You squeezed his hand, your voice gentle as you replied, “You don’t have to say it. I feel it every day.”

The two of you lingered at the table long after the plates were cleared, enjoying the warmth of each other’s company as the night stretched on. It wasn’t just the Negronis that left a pleasant buzz in your veins; it was the quiet understanding that, in the middle of all life’s chaos, you and Alan were each other’s greatest discovery.

[sapphiccup]

Never Enough!!! Pt3,

Councilor Sevika x singerreader

Wc:4,888

Summary: Getting drunk with Sevika, tensions arise with Councilors, and unexpected turn of events. Reader is currently going through a cycle of troubled waters, that not only involves herself but a certain Councilor as well.

Cw: eighteen + SFW/ NSFW, fluff, Councilor Sevika, strong language, political, pining, eventual smutt in later chapters, btw reader has tits. MINORS AND CIS MEN DNI!

An.) Please remember to check out my introduction on my blog if you’re confused about anything.

Going to bar to bar, drinking anything to escape what ever the fuck is to happen tomorrow. ‘Cause one thing about Piltover: they love to talk. Your nerves almost wither away with every pour of a new bottle, and new bartender makes. How did you get here?

It took one question for you to ask Sevika.

“You wanna go get drinks?” And yeah, you meant plural. Drinkssss

Even though Sevika has some council duties to attend to, she would rather drink with you than deal with tomorrow again. With the council constantly interrupting her, and her almost grabbing them by the neck. This is like a vacation that she hasn’t had since…

Well shit.

Anyway, at a booth, you’re both bent over holding your stomachs, softly sharing a touch here and there, laughing about how some of the councilors were feeling so screwed at the opera house. Their faces stretched in ways that could only say ‘this is catastrophic for us’ Making fun of their inner thoughts that you would make up, Sevika chiming in of what they really were thinking. The laughter dies out when another cup is sat in front of you, a single cherry margarita, with more alcohol stirred in at your request.

Sevika peers over at you, your face is still surprisingly well-kept after all these back to back glasses of your favorites. As many drinks as you had tonight, she’s surprised you can keep up with her. You raise your drink to your supple lips, pressing them against the glass, taking slow gulps, that red liquid soon being drained by your unsatisfied thirst. You were simply drinking and Sevika was just—- captivated by you. She took a long sigh, avoiding to look at you anymore than she has, taking interest in the ceiling, knowing damn well she would rather stare at your lips some more.

“Sorry for being.. an ass earlier” you admitted, your low lidded eyes fixated on the table, pursing your lips, thoughts swarming on how to say this the right way that it can reach Sevika, that you’re being genuine, that this isn’t scripted. She fixed her gaze back to your face again, thankful that she has an excuse to stare at you.

“I was-“

“Putting up a front? Yeah, not my first time seeing that.” She stepped in between your sentence, knowing you were probably going to make a long apology with the way your face was scrunched with guilt. Might as well let you know she doesn’t really care that you were trying to seem tough. It’s human.

However there is one thing that bothered her, and she’s not one to just let everything— slip away.

“You gaslit me.” She said as she took another sip of her negroni, not averting her locked in stare at you.. Thumbing her glass, feeling around the carefully crafted cup, ridges pressing her touch.

“I- wha?” You stumbled with your wording, voice coming out like a squeak. Fully turning your head towards her, giving her your undivided attention as your eyebrows knit together, but not from frustration, just taken aback. Her face meshed around by twisted emotions that she was not fond of being absorbed in, her lip was upturned, as if she wanted to snap at you for the memory.

“You said I was being cut throat, did you mean aggressive?” Her fleshed hand, combing through her hair back, slightly tugging at the ends, eyes half lidded. Sevika had to ask this because, this isn’t her first being… treated othered. She knows her appearance is often confused with just an embodiment of the aggressor, it pisses her off. She knows why she had to build up herself as this physical, and you know what? She likes it a lot(her muscular body that is). Her hard work, nobody can dismiss proof of it, yet, people see this brawny woman and think she can handle anything. She can handle MOST, things but, her upbringing is the reason she can deal with it, not because she looks like it, and definitely not because she wants to deal with it. She has to.

“I.. I meant direct, but— I am sorry that I did that. I.. there is no excuse for me when I said that to you. I hope you can forgive me.”

“Uh.. yeah.” She mumbled out, taking another sip from the large glass mug, her brows drew together, muddled in her thoughts. Not understanding why you apologized so easily. She shook her head, eyes wandering off away from you, staring at different people. The place was bustling, hot food coming from the kitchen, plates clattering together, and so much high energy of many conversations.

She opened her mouth to speak again,

“You’re really confusing.”

“Why do you say that?” You asked, tilting your head, still keeping your eyes on her, not thinking about how much she made you nervous earlier, the drinks are really settling in now.

“I thought you would go back n forth with me..”

“Not in the case of me being in the wrong.”

Sevika blinked twice, baffled that you’re saying something almost foreign to her. She whipped her head back to you, you were so close to her face, not even realizing that your chest was pressing against her bicep. She noticed though, losing her absolutely shit in her head, stiffening trying to make sure she doesn’t move, because one, she doesn’t want to make any sudden movements, and two she doesn’t want you to be uncomfortable with her if she did move back.

Maybe you’re used to doing this, or maybe you just feel comfortable that you’re in her presence. Sevika was dodging every possible hypothetical that was anything less tame.

“Thish is what I mean, we are so attached to them problems we’ve been festering in that we expect harm from anyone.”

You fumed, slurred wording, at the irresponsible acts of negligence that Zaunites endured, the fact that those very actions are still present is just infuriating, you took a deep breath, trying to calm down.

She gave you this lopsided grin, thinking to herself that, so it takes a few drinks to get your fire back?

“Being in the Council is hard.. isn’t it?” You inquired, inching closer to her. Eyes pooling with kindness.

Annnd we’re back to Sevika losing her marbles again, tits on her arm, soft as fuck, trying her best to be coherent, you were waiting for her response, and she’s trying to think of anything other than those tits.

She took a deep breath, and right at that moment, the drinks were settling in for her too. She wanted to get up, but she noticed her vision was a bit.. wobbly. Fuck, she was in a difficult situation. She closed her eyes, pinching the bridge of her nose.

Fuck it you’re both slightly fucked up on drinks, might as well get closer, doesn’t mean anything. Friends are this close anyway, who cares, fuck it all.

“I-I forgive you, and I— am having a rough time with the rest of the council. I can’t say this in public so.. do you mind?”

She sloped near enough against you to reach your ear, and you nod that it’s alright for her to use your lobe.

“I’m trying to pass this bill, something that we need in Zaun, more healthcare facilities, and more licensed doctors”

As she whispered, you could almost feel her lips touch you, her breath lighting up all your senses, were you thinking at all when you agreed to her whispering your ears? Of course not. You just signed up for lesbian panic full course ahead! Your body was getting warmer by the second, barely registering what she’s saying now.. hopefully she doesn’t bring this specific conversation again, cause you’d be fucked. Maybe.

Head spinning from her voice, spinning more than those drinks could ever, in fact, this might be the drink you were missing to satisfy that thirst you were looking for in all those emptied cups of booze.

“They’re in my way stopping me, telling me I’m worrying about nonsense. That there’s enough down there. They’re.. preventing me. Provoking me is more like it, but that’s the stress I’m-“

“Would you both like another drink?” a waiter asks, staring at your empty cups. Interrupting the hushed conversation, saving you but at the same time not?

She grunted in your ear, before moving away, your chest rose and fell, gradually quickening, you nodded at the waiter, you just needed one more, one more to move that feeling off of you.

It’s funny, you were just giving this woman a letter with a stained kiss on it to be a tease, and now you’re here on the receiving end, getting flustered. You were not planning on that at all. You admit, she is very attractive, but you also didn’t expect to actually be the one that’s wishy washy about whether you’d like more of her or step back. You figured a little flirting wouldn’t be that bad, but dammit, you are literally almost at the edge of your seat from this teetering emotion that wants a hold of you.

You haven’t had a crush since you were a child, so for it to wander its way trying to capture you in its clutches again, was startling.

-

The drinks kept piling up until Sevika had to stop you. You were throwing them back like they were just drinks of water out of nowhere. She felt like she needed to put a wall between you and the bar, bringing you outside, your breath puffing out clouds, welcoming the shivers from the crisp winds. Cooling down your rising heat, and your alcoholic buzz. You were sooo hot from all the drinks, legs wiggly, insisting Sevika you can go home in your non-sobered state, insisting that you were not drunk at all. That was far from the truth.

“You can’t go home like that.”

“And why not?” You inquired right back, pouting at her, with your hands on your hips, as if you were asserting dominance, over a battle that you wouldn’t win, at least not this battle of back n forth. She took a step close to you, staring down at your physique, carefully taking her time to trace every bit, legs barely being able to stand, hands fidgeting with your clothes, briefly passing your chest,( if she stared any longer it would be.. — she would feel all too guilty for even disrespecting your safety with her like that.) slowly coming up to your face, lips plumped from the alcohol gracing them, eyes dilated.

“You’re vulnerable”

“Where you sup-suppose I should go them?”

Your words coming out slurred, taking a step closer to Sevika, you could smell her scent of her tobacco, the alcohol you’ve both drunk prior, and something.. else.. oils? Oil colognes?

“My.. ugh, dammit.. you’re..” if you didn’t know any better the way she’s struggling to make a sentence, it would seem that she’s nervous, but you brush it off, thinking she’s a bit buzzed.

“You’re gonna have to stay the night with me, until, well you’re not this”

You take a long good stare at her.

“Fime!”

-

Sevika moved out of her place in Zaun, the walk to the council was just to fucking exasperating to put any more effort into. And with the money coming in easier, Councilman benefits, she figured why not get a place near it. However, she wouldn’t dare be too close to those noblemen, earls, dukes, viscounts, she’s good on that.

Instead she chose to live in the exact neighborhood that you both went to that jazz joint. The place where you felt a little easier to breathe.

You both enter the door, entering a dark hallway, until she starts lighting some of the lanterns, the warm light welcomes you. There may be papers sprawled out, some empty bottles of elixirs, tools, nuts, and bolts around the living area, but it’s quite nice. Not too fancy, and too run down. It looks like she had some time to put together a good space for herself.

Heavy boots making the floors creak, as Sevika heads towards a closet grabbing some pillows, and a blanket. You held your hands out waiting for her to give her the comfortable blankets, instead she threw them on the couch.

“Sho rude, I was going-“

“You’re sleeping on the bed, I’m sleeping on the couch.”

“Oh.”

She raises her eyebrow at you, you look disappointed.

“I .. I thought I was gonna sleep on the couch.”

“Why?”

“Well I’m a guest, plush ish your bed you should sleep in it.”

You give her this awkward smile, swaying back n’ forth, still buzzed on the way here.

“It’s alright, I don’t care. It’s just for the night anyway.”

Just for the night, damn. Wait, why am I saying damn, we didn’t do anything for me to stay for longer. Plus, I’m sure she doesn’t see me in that way. Not her. You were so adamant that there was no way in hell, that Sevika, who was known around Zaun to be around Babbettes, never settling down with anyone, having her goals set and locked for the rest of life. Assuming was more than what you were doing, fantasizing that she’s just not the kind of woman that would ever find herself in a situation where love was involved, love with another person. She was just another fan that liked your music, that was that.

You bit down on your bottom lip, nodding, making your way to her room until she realized something CRUCIAL, that’s in her bedroom. You see, Sevika is grown right? Why wouldn’t she have something adult in her own house?

It was too late. Before she could stop you, you saw it. A purple strap, sitting on her bed. On top of her fluffy white covers, your mouth was left agape, shocked to see it in your face just like that. And it’s big.. like queen size dildo big. Talk about sobering up quick!

Who the fuck was she stretching out with something like that?

She swiftly moved past you, grabbing it and throwing it into her personal closet.

“Forget you saw that.”

“S-Saw what?” You replied immediately, your ears being kidnapped by heat, hot as ever as she gazed at you, and your eyes darting everywhere but her.

“‘Night”

“G’night”

And that was that, she left the room. You had a date with that bed, and sleep was calling your name. As soon as you plopped down on her covers, her scent exploded in your nose, it was so addictive, wondering if whoever was lucky to have her scent up close and personal smelled this exact scent.. You had to stop.

I’m not a pervert right? Oh god… nope this is exactly what perverts do. Shit.

You closed your eyes tight trying to forget everything, but thinking back to her eyes tracing you, her lips, her breath on your ear, her hushed tone looping you around like her silked, voice with a hint of grate to it was your zero gravity, yet somehow pulling you too close for your own good. Tomorrow will be better, right?

-

The next morning Sevika's head was banging, hangovers are not ideal, so she made something to get it out of her, Soondubu, best hangover cure ever, the spice, savory goodness just hits just right on her tongue. And for the hell of it why don’t she just makes some for you, she has no idea if you’re gonna eat it… but— it wouldn’t hurt.

She hears her mail slot open, turning the heat on low before grabbing the newspaper. Her eyes widened at the headline.

‘Local uprising singer gets political backlash at opera house.’

“Fuck”

She kept reading cause apparently they didn’t just stop there. They even stalked the both of you going bar hopping.

‘Is she trying to smooth over her latest scandal with a fellow Zaunite? Is this woman trying to smooth it over with debauchery-‘

Sevika chokes on her spit reading that last sentence.

Are you fucking serious?

This gotta be a game of chess of some sort, this had never happened before. Why would they rush this story of all stories to be in the paper? It made no sense to Sevika at all, unless…

Her and that old woman councilor have been at odds for a while, ever since she got there, that old woman has been out to get her. Trying to find ways to get rid of Sevika out of the council. She’s always going on and on about how it’s unprecedented that a Zaunite has a seat, with an important title. Always starting shit with her, making sure that the other council members don’t vote with her on improving Zaun.

Sevika scrubs her hand down her face, annoyed with how far this woman is willing to go. It’s one thing to fuck with her at work, but now she’s not only fucking with her personal life, she’s bringing you in with the mess. She crumbles up the papers, throwing them in the trash. She does not want you to see that. You were already nervous yesterday, anxiety building up at the brim, and now this?

-

After eating her meal, taking a shower, brushing her teeth, getting ready to go to work, she never heard you get up at all. She heard murmurs, so she assumed you were still asleep. She checked if you were all good. You were more than good, especially by the drool you were leaving on her pillow, arm thrawled above your head, a sloppy sleeper. It made her chuckle to herself seeing how knocked out you were. She took a quick glance at her closet though.

The hell was I thinking, leaving that out?

Knowing fully damn well she wouldn’t give a damn who saw that, but who would have guessed one her favorite performers would be spending the night at her house, to sober up on top of that. Before officially leaving, she brought some towels out, leaving them on a nearby chair, if you wanted to freshen up before leaving.

-

Sevika took her seat at the cogged table, everyone mumbling between themselves, Shoola giving her a concerned look, and Sevika giving her an already knowing look right back.

“Let’s just address the elephant in the room then” Sevika announced towards the entire council, the mumbling stopped and the attention was at her presence.

“We can no longer be distracted at the fact of your insolent behavior, it’s putting a certain look on the council” the old woman chided.

“Council Sesban, we’ve all had rumors floating about us, it is not that immoral to have it now, nor does it affect us at all for that matter.” Without haste, directing her attention towards the old woman that has it out for Sevika, Councilor Shoola spoke defending Councilor Sevika.

“I was speaking to Miss Sevika.” Sesban retorted sharply. Sevika, wanted this ridiculous argument to be over and done with, her face washed with an already worn out state.

“My personal affairs, and the representation of this council are two separate entities. It's gossip, nothing more and nothing less.” She proclaimed in a flat tone.

“Yes, I must say this too shall pass, plus, I do not favor staying on this topic, let's get to work shall we?” Another Councilor detering the imbalanced conversation. That old woman grumbled to herself. While Sevika huffed out a quick laugh. Rightfully so.

One of the councilors ordered an Enforcer to pass around some papers, with fancy fonts, ready to be signed, amongst various pressing matters that the Council must answer for the citizens.

“Let’s continue with our discussion, prior to the bill that a lot of Zaunites have made their absolute most concern. Hospitals, and doctors are needed.” The councilor continued, trying his best to negate the tension in the air. Everyone could tell that it was going to be a long.. day. It was no secret that the Council had prejudice towards Zaunites; most of the requests are ignored, or swept away by loopholes that they crawl into instead of addressing the matter that should be solved. However, when it came to their health system, there was no loophole for them, there had to be a decision. Sevika made sure that any loophole was quickly, and strategically filled. Except one gap that is trying to creep open, by force. None other than Councilor Sesban, at fault for opening that gap, over and over again.

“The bunch of them are grouping up, and getting riled up again, I think we-“ another Councilor tries to elaborate, until..

“Well it’s no wonder they are.” Councilor Sesban began,

“Radicals becoming more rowdy!” She shouted, Sevika bouncing her leg, her body preparing for Sesbans explicit biases slapped against her, before deciding to correct her.

“There is nothing radical about wanting proper health care, Councilor Sesban.”

“Of course, you’d say that, we know what’s really going on here. In the past they were relying on shimmer, and now they want something stronger. You’re familiar with that drug Councilor Sevika? In fact you might as well be related as close as family members with those variants you so graciously took upon-“

Her voice was sharp, unrelenting on the matter of Sevika’s personal affairs again.

Sevika had to bite her tongue down before she really started going off on this woman, almost letting out a “bitch” past her teeth, wouldn’t regret it at all, however she knows she has to keep some kind of professionalism.

“Councilor Sesban!” Shoola exclaims, wishing she’d stop where she’s at, but Sesban stops for no one. Not even for her counterparts.

“Zaunites want something stronger, and shimmer isn’t doing the trick like it did before. They clearly don’t need any more unnecessary special treatment.” She finished her statement, a smug smile upturning her lips, as if she just won a medal for being petty.

“You’re right, Zaunites have been using shimmer, but only because of the negligence that your city made sure happen for generations. It makes sense that a community tried to at least have some sort of aid, accepting they were abandoned by their government. The very same government that had no choice but to place me at the seat to represent Zaun.” Sevika rebutted, tongue quick, and wits sharp to a T.

“Should I go further?”

“Actually don’t answer that, I will go further. Clean up your mess that you so graciously keep trying to pull the covers over.”

“And what of your mess?” Sesban countered,

“Obviously, your demagogue of a performer clearly wants to rile up Zaunites to attack us again, trying to act as if she’s inspiring them when in actuality she’s just some slut on the streets trying to muck up some attention for her car-“

Sevika clenched her fist, eyebrow twitching at the word slut, man she wished she could stuff a cork down her throat.

“Do you ever shut your mouth?”

“What in the actual fuck does that woman have to do with the crisis at hand?” Finally cursing, not being able to hold back anymore, though, she still held back, not getting out of seat, still trying her best as she could. Sesban getting up from her seat scooting in back in a brash way, her face contorted with fury.

This constant back and forth did not cease for at least an hour to the point where the rest of the Council had to stop the entire meeting, and try to start fresh the next day.

“We’ll come back to this… again. Councilor Sesban, and Councilor Sevika, I hope the both of you settle your differences soon.”

Lighting a cigar before opening her house door, breathing in the tabaco down her lungs, swirling in her body, untwisting her stressed knot that keeps finding itself tangled over and over again, only to be burned to truly be loose. That cigar looped its addicted trail around the air, hugging the once cleansed air from its absence. Not bothering to turn the lights on, she dragged her feet along the floorboards, her heavy boots making their announcement, without her sharing a single word. As she walked more into her house, glancing over at her kitchen rack, the dishes were clean, and the Soondubu was completely gone.

Good, she ate something before she left.

Heading towards her bedroom for solace. She opened her door to find the sheets neatly straightened up. A tickling smirk pulling the corner of her mouth. It’s weird, you only were there for a night, but every corner screams your touch. You gave off this seclouth spirit, that slow dance with hers, or maybe Sevika was just imagining it. She took a long drag of her cigar, breaking away from its taste for a second, she took a deep breath, your scent mixed with hers, it felt as though she was drinking in something extremely forbidden, stepping over lines that should never be crossed.

She was nearly about to fall asleep when she heard something moving in her bathroom. Without even thinking twice she swung the door open, ready to get rid of some random trespasser, and to her surprise it wasn’t

Well damn, it was you in all your glory. Her eyes nearly popping out of her skull, not expecting to see you still here. Definitely not expecting you to be damn near nude, in front of her, in her bathroom. Her hand that gripped that knob, grew tighter, if she wanted to, she could break it.

“Oh shit, wait!”, you were in the middle of wrapping your hair in a towel, with a quick swing of her slamming that door closed, her heart racing like a trapped hummingbird in a cage.

(Chibi version of Sevika’s reaction)

She took a large gulp, her back now facing the door, eyes flickering something dark trying to make room in her, yet she shot it down like a venomous snake.

Lace.. that was lace right? Her nip-. Fuck. She placed her fleshed hand on her chest, trying to do a breathing exercise, but nothing was working. That memory was circling an ablazed memory in the wrinkles of her brain. Refusing to be removed by any means, didn’t matter if she close her eyes, you were right there, didn’t matter if she thought of something else, you kept clawing at her, digging your nails deep inside her hot blood that protected her hippocampus, her red carpet of different lives she had made.

“Thought you went home!” She yelled, her voice coming out a bit more higher pitched than usual. It got a quirked eyebrow out of you, but of course you try to disregard that. Not even thinking that maybe she is shocked from seeing you in lingerie.

“Sorry!” She apologized, soon after, you almost opened the door, to tell her she doesn’t have to apologize, yet you remind yourself, you’re still undressed. And you really didn’t want to put back on your clothes that reeked of alcohol.

“No-no it- I’m sorry, I shoulda said something when you came back.”

“Why’re-“

“I saw that paper…” interrupting her, of course she’s surprised you’re still here, but after seeing that article about you. The column, gods, it was too much for you to just go back home, lock yourself in your own doors, instead you stayed at her home. Not waiting for her, just losing track of time as you kept taking cold showers to rid yourself of that consuming pit of your stomach.

Sevika, shutting her eyes tight, pinching her nose bridge, groaning softly to herself, cursing that she didn’t think that you would go through that.

Should’ve burned it.. Damn it all.

“Too scared to leave?” She questioned, her voice holding you close again.

“Yep!”

“I even heard the neighbors going on about it.”

Well fucking great, you both had a shittty day. Her metal claws scratch at the door, as she pondered on what to do about this entire fiasco. At first she figured this would all blow over in two weeks. However, with the way Sesban is so hellbent on removing her from the Council..

She licks her lips and lifts her eyes to the ceiling, she could hear you moving closer to the door, pressing yourself against it. You’re both entertwined in this farce, yet bound by a block that can only be moved if one of you is vulnerable enough to let it sway naturally.

“Y-you can.. stay as long as you’d like if you want.” She lets out, her mouth going dry.

“Oh!” You responded, shocked that she’d even let you stay longer. Especially, since the news thinks you’re just out to get your slap on the wrist by any means.

“I mean! I mean you don’t have to- I”

“I don’t want to take hostage of your bed longer than I have now-“ you reply, mouth moving in a brisker manner, still getting cut off by her persistence.

“It’s s’fine.”

“You sure?”

It wasn’t an unwelcomed persistence though, it was.. sugaring you up that she’s insisting. She even sounds a bit worried.

“Of course..” her voice coming out in a hushed whisper, soft as clouds easing your discomfort.

“Okay..” you said pressing a palm at the door, making lazy circles on it, as if your body knew that her back was on that door.

Previous|Next

[byroniuspunk]

Keep calm and... Negroni

[valentinsylve]

makeup and fuck-off jewelry are armor. the work party was surprisingly fun, i didn't have to interact with the creep at all, because there were 30 people there and i made friends with all of them including (especially) everyone's wives. i am vaguely housed on negronis. soz for the nicotine teeth i'm an old derelict and basically i rule the end

[thetriumphantpanda]

CONGRATULATIONS CHARLIE OMG?????? 🎉🥳🙌

the negroni sbagliato has surely piqued my interest, how do you feel about a little Javier Peña + “you want gentle? wrong fucking address.” 👀

Em thank you so much!! I'm so glad that you've joined me to celebrate, especially with a negroni sbagliato, this one is particularly exciting to me! I hope you love it, and thank you for supporting me!

Warnings | allusions to rough sex, kind of workplace fuck buddies, oral (kind of F receiving), mentions of marking during sex, biting, reader wears a dress, no use of y/n

Word Count | 539

Join me for a night at Charlie's Tavern to celebrate 4,000 followers!

The heat is stifling as you rap your knuckles on the door of his apartment, beads of sweat bursting at the backs of your knees and the nape of your neck, despite the fact that the dress you’ve worn has less material than you think is appropriate. You’ve been here years and the Columbian humidity is still something you’re yet to acclimatise to.

It’s been a tough couple of weeks. Late nights filled with takeout containers and early mornings fuelled by black coffee and hope, but still, you’d been unsuccessful, target slipped from between fingers despite solid intelligence. The whole team frustrated as they filed out, going home to sleep solidly for two days before coming back to try again.

He’d phoned not long after, knowing you’d still be at your desk, analysing what went wrong, because he’s good at that, knowing you, despite this, whatever it was, being nothing but stress relief.

“Come over.”

A plea, he needing it just as much as you, so you do. You go home, shower the remnants of the day from your skin, and then dress yourself in the shortest dress you can find. You need this, he needs this, which is why you’re not surprised that as soon as he opens the door and takes a look at you, you’re dragged inside by the wrist, whisked through the apartment in a flurry, and pushed down onto the bed in no time.

Javi pushes the material of your dress to your hips, exposing the fact you’ve walked fifteen minutes to his house with no underwear on, cunt dripping at the mere thought of him. He doesn’t really waste any time, your chest heaving as his mouth trails wet kisses on the insides of your thighs, ignoring the fluttering of your hole, begging to be filled by anything.

You tip your head back when the backs of his knuckles run across the seam of your pussy, a drag of his teeth across the sensitive skin of your thighs, then they sink in, a little too rough, a little too deep, and you’re squealing, trying to move yourself away from him, even though it’s fine, it was just a surprise.

But he stops you, strong hands on your hips, dark eyes looking up at you from between your legs. His tongue licks a single stripe through your cunt, tip of it giving one flick to your clit, and then he speaks.

“You want gentle?” His voice is low, you feel your hips buck up, chasing the mouth you know can make you feel so good, “Wrong fucking address.”

He looks at you, waiting for you to decide if this is what you want, always the gentleman, only going to give it to you if you know what you’re getting into, but you’ve been here before, so many times when the other side has bested you, letting him fuck you into the mattress to forget, letting his teeth mark you all over just to feel something. So you nod, settle your body back down and let him take exactly what he needs, and give you exactly what you need.

[writingsofwesteros]

Was bored so thought I'd make a mood board of the Hightower siblings and their Florent cousin. More details below 👇🏻

In red is Madeline "Maddie" Florent. her cast is Aimee Lou Wood.

- Maddie is a creative director with her own fashion house.

- she has some different teeth, not all perfectly cureted by veneers but Maddie doesn't care. She likes the way they are and that's what counts.

- not the best at organising her table and walls full of scribbles of ideas and printed photos.

Between Maddie, we have Gwayne Hightower.

- movie actor, won an oscar at a young age with a Lucas Guadagnino gay movie. Married to B-list actor Criston Cole, going against Otto's wishes.

- loves brunch than the average human. It's the perfect time for gossip and shared news. Has a Letterboxd account and is an avid user there.

In blue, there's Eleanor "Ellie" Hightower. her cast is Ella Purnell.

- the middle sister. Took acting as her full time career with preferences of participating in series rather than movies with famous directors.

- dog mom of a stray dog, Bambi 🫶🏻.

In yellow, we have Alicent Hightower.

- actress. Oscar winner, mom and married. Here and there, enjoys a Negroni. Likes the fame but after having kids, preferred to stay away from the spotlight for their sake.

LOVE LOVE LOVE!!

Gwayne is just the BEST! We deserved to see more of him; and with Criston - just delicious !!

Sweet Maddie; i bet they wear so many of her designs as well like second nature

Alicent is never seen without a drink, its hilarious !

[sysakiddo]

I finally edited chapter 6 of diplomacy au y'all! I struggled a bit with a burnout after getting my degree in january lol but hopefully it won't take so long for another chapter to appear!!

ao3, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

“It's like watching the most awkward first date happen in front of your eyes. And you know, of course, that they are not going to fuck.” Max says after taking a long sip of his third gin and tonic. 

Everybody who hears him laughs, already watching the couple standing by the bar. Charles tugs his ear in what seems to be a nervous tick while Sebastian casually leans on the chair, even though he is everything but casual. He watches every move of the man in front of him, shuffling his feet a bit when Charles licks his lips after a sip of his skinny bitch. 

“Pathetic,” Alex laughs, not unkindly. “It seems to me like there is no salvation for them,” George adds, leaning forward on the couch they all squeezed on to see the show in front of them. 

Anne doesn't feel like this is something she can ask them about. That is not to say that she is not terribly curious and confused about how one could refuse Charles Leclerc giving them heart eyes while biting his lips. Instead, she breaches a topic she thinks is a safe zone. “If you think this is tacky, how did you guys meet?” 

Daniel looks at his hands immediately, a nervous huff escaping from his lips. He hates telling that story. He rarely ever thinks about that time now unless he really needs to. The swirling of the ice in his negroni makes a loud noise. 

Because truthfully, Max met Daniel at his lowest. It was in his LA house, where he spent most of his time, the D.C. office vacant more often than not. They turned up just as the sun was setting, Sebastian and Max. It was the older man who insisted on introducing them.

Daniel straight out refused. He didn't care about Sebastian’s little charity project. It went too far, saving aggressive puppies, Jesus. He did not want to meet anyone named Verstappen when he wasn't paid to do so. 

Daniel was barefoot, his swimming trunks still a bit wet. The LV shirt had an obnoxious pink print and it was slipping from his shoulders. It was late enough that he was glowing from the sun, the diamonds on his necklace shining. He looked at the wunderkind, at Max, the youngest ambassador in the US ever. 

Max wore a three-piece suit despite the day being too hot for it. His Berlutis were gleaming, and he was straight-up glaring at Daniel.

“Howdy,” he grinned at them. Sebastian assessed Daniel's pupils, shaky hands and a sheen of sweat on his forehead with a grim face. He gave him the pep talk about easing off the drugs just a few days ago. Max extended his hand, and Daniel shook it. It was a reflex. Max’s palm was warm and soft. 

Sebastian cleared his throat. “As I told you, Max, this is Daniel-” 

“I, of course, know who he is.” Max didn't let Sebastian finish his sentence, coming off unnecessarily rude. Daniel laughed awkwardly. 

“Sounds like I'm famous, baby.” he winked at Sebastian and from the corner of his eye, he saw Max visibly cringe. 

“We met at work, Anne. Sebastian introduced us when we were all in the USA. He is painfully proud of that, calls himself a matchmaker and everything.” Max huffs out a laugh. He knows Daniel feels uneasy and puts the target on his back to protect him. Like usually.

“Who did the first move then?” Anne asks, just as Charles, who lost Sebastian somewhere on the way between the bar and the table, makes it back to them. 

“Oh, Daniel did. It was very romantic.” Max says matter of factly. When Daniel finally looks up, he is surprised to see his eyes foggy, as if he is experiencing the moment for the first time again. 

Nevertheless, Daniel huffs, mad that Max always uses his version of the story. “Romantic? You slapped me!” 

“Well, it is only right I did,” Max shrugs. “I, of course, thought you were making fun of me.”

Charles giggles, which is honestly progress. He was the one who took the fall, consoling Max after he returned from their dinner, fidgeting with his fingers, two red stains high on his cheeks. His voice sounded like he was eating gravel for dinner when he told him Daniel had kissed him. He was rapidly blinking like he was trying too hard not to cry, and Charles still thought it was the best proof of his professionalism, the fact that he hadn’t laughed to his face right there. But. He locked himself in the bathroom after Max somehow calmed down, turned on the faucet, and laughed hysterically. 

Max originally feared Daniel had figured him out and was just playing mind games. He thought Daniel was ridiculing him, or worse, he tried a new technique to manipulate and eventually blackmail him. What enraged him the most was the fact he wasn't prepared for it. He hasn't read a tutorial named what-to-do-when-your-counterpart-kisses-you in any of the assigned readings in the university. 

The only emotion Daniel felt when Max slapped him across the face immediately after the kiss was pure humiliation. He couldn't believe he read the signs wrong, him, Daniel Ricciardo. It was unheard of. Plus, Max did kiss him back for a few seconds. But then. 

And Daniel felt stupid and walked home alone and got drunk alone and fell asleep alone. 

Now, Daniel looks at Max with deep empathy. He squeezes his thigh, smiling. 

“Well, that shitshow was still a lot better than Baku,” Charles says with a grimace. That wasn't Max stuttering and rubbing his red eyes furiously; that was Max throwing random things across the room, his scream ricocheting through the whole hotel floor. 

Daniel snapped at Charles, “No, we’re not talking about Baku!“ Charles smirked, looking at him with a look that meant trouble. But Daniel has never in his life been scared of Charles. He was such a sweet kid before he fell under Seb’s influence. He takes a second to mourn the version of him he knew before he introduced Seb to him. 

“Always you are mad because you don’t want to admit you were wrong. Christian also said you of course did not act according to the protocol.” Max buts in, chronically unable to get over things. 

Daniel turns to Max with a stormy expression, the empathy all but gone. “Christian would also suck your dick if you asked, I don't see how his opinion is valid in this situation.” he spits out.

Charles hums, taking another sip of his skinny bitch. “He does seem to touch you an awful lot, when you are together, Max.” 

“That’s exactly my point, thank you, Charles.” Daniel is done, scoffing. 

Max, however, is just about to start another rant. “But Daniel, I told you your tactic wouldn't work. You pulled out of the negotiations too soon, it was very amateurish from you, you must admit at least that. Who leaves the negotiating table with no backup plan?” he gets into it, flaring his hands around like an octopus. “It just buggs me, you know, that you still blame me. You of course made a mistake, Daniel, and that happens but it was a stupid rookie mistake and you should have apologized-” 

Daniel stands up abruptly. “Hey, Max?” 

For a frightening second, Anne thinks he is going to deck his husband right there.

Max just hums, looking up. “I love you,” Daniel says surprisingly, bending down and giving Max a loud, smacking kiss. Then he turns around and leaves to the bar to stand next to Sebastian who resurfaced in the meantime. 

When Anne looks at Max, he is red as a tomato, glaring at the straw in his drink. “Well, what was I saying-” he stutters, interrupted by the laughter of the men sitting across from him. 

“I can't believe this shit is still working out for him, oh my god.” Alex wheezes. 

“Manipulative bitch,” George quips, still giggling.

Max is unimpressed. “Don't call him that.” he snaps and glares at him, George shutting up immediately. 

Charles looks at Anne and smiles a little. “I think maybe it is time for us to go home. I'm terribly tired. What do you think?”

Anne nods, pointedly not saying anything about noticing how Sebastian kept yawning at his spot beside Daniel. 

||

Daniel doesn't understand why he wakes up at first. It's pitch black, the blackout curtains doing their job properly. He stares at the ceiling for a bit, then closes his eyes to make himself fall back asleep. 

“Ik zal het oplossen.” Max meowls in Dutch next to him. “I just need more time! Ik zal het halen, dat beloof ik. No, no!” 

It clicks for Daniel, Max's rigged breaths, which he has not noticed before. The night air is suddenly too cold. 

He runs his hand up and down Max's forearm, not saying anything but his name to wake him up. When Max snaps out of his dream, his whole body violently twitches, and he slaps Daniel's hand away. 

“Hey, it's okay now,” Daniel isn't deterred, his hand finding a way to Max's hair, waiting him out. “It was just a dream. You are safe.” 

Max's breaths come out staggering like he just returned from his run. After a few minutes, he finally opens his eyes and looks at Daniel. A macabre grimace is on his face, something that wanted to be a smile. 

“I wasn't prepared again, Daniel,” he whispers. Daniel hums, not answering in any way, even though he subconsciously clenches the fist that's not playing with Max's hair. 

“You are safe with me,” Daniel says, trying to ease Max's shivering and make the haunted flicker in his eyes go away. He never shared any gruesome details about his time in military school. But. It's not like he had to. “Do you maybe want to take a shower?” he asks him and Max hesitantly nods.

They only fall back asleep when the birds are already chirping outside.

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