#I actually wasn’t interested in her at all until one day I was browsing and I saw her in her sledding outfit

[mydollsaregay]

why must all of maryellen’s cutest outfits be retired and expensive secondhand??? 😭😭😭

let’s go over the state of things:

maryellen’s vacation playsuit. a totally adorable summer outfit, leaning into the 50’s trend of a playsuit - a romper with a matching detachable skirt. so darling! naturally, it was retired after only one year, and the cheapest it’s currently being sold for on mercari is ninety dollars (missing the shoes, so it’s not even complete). okay, that’s sad, but every collection has one or two poor gems like this.

maryellen’s strawberry outfit! I love this one - I think the colors are just the right combination of cute and garish, which gives it a really fun retro vibe. This one was out for three years so I’m sure the secondhand prices are more reasonable - oh wait, no. they tend to be listed for around a hundred dollars. 😞

maryellen’s rockin’ roller skating outfit is a *little* better. but the dress on its own is still being listed for about fifty five dollars so it feels weird to celebrate that as an improvement. it was out for two years, so I get it being a *bit* more pricey. but the full outfit is being listed for about a hundred dollars so like. still way too much for me.

maryellen’s flamingo swim set is super cute, but it’s only a swim suit. surely people can’t be asking that much for - oh. the swimsuit alone tends to be listed for about 70 and the whole set I seems to be listed for mostly around 150 at the low end. bro.

maryellen’s play outfit. look, at this point I’m getting a bit desperate. I don’t even really like this one all that much (I think it’s cute but it looks weirdly cheap to me?). but this was out for three years, and looks like the kind of outfit that would have good sales! surely I can find it at a decently low price. oh - no, it looks like that will be $70 without the shoes. okay then.

honestly, i get the prices a bit. clearly people are buying them occasionally at those prices, as the sold listings were in those ballparks. however, I AM annoyed at ag. they rotated her collection so quickly that they burned through a bunch of cute designs super fast.

i wish ag would bring back some of these! I feel like her playsuit especially got the short end of the stick. it’s such a cute design and a really cool bit of fashion history.

[anniebeemine]

Blue Velvet- s.r.

bluer than velvet was the night

summary: Spencer had no idea he could fall for a coworker, nor could he think straight at seeing her in that dress. Pure fluff and self indulgence. Inspired by the Lana Del Rey cover and I Can't Fight This Feeling Anymore by REO Speedwagon.

Word Count: ~4,802

Spencer weaved through the crowd gathered in the main ballroom. The annual FBI gala was the talk of the year. He never cared for it before, making excuses to avoid going, but he made a promise this year. It’s his tenth year anniversary since joining and he was going to be honored with a gift.

“Pretty boy, you clean up nice,” Derek chuckled as he caught Reid’s sleeve.

“Hardy, har, har,” he replied. “Where’s everyone else?”

David raised an eyebrow. “Looking for someone specific?”

“Someone named Y/N?”

“No!” Spencer said, a little too quickly. “Maybe. She said she was running late and I want to make sure she made it.”

There was no way in hell Spencer would stay for long if it wasn’t for you. During your time on the team, you’d grown close. It was on one of those rare quiet afternoons that you discovered your shared interest in the genre.

"Do you like science fiction movies?" you had asked one day, scrolling through the TV guide during a rare moment of downtime during a case.

Spencer had looked up from his research, his eyes lighting up with a hint of excitement. "Actually, yes. I find them fascinating—exploring hypothetical futures, advanced technology, and ethical dilemmas."

And so began your tradition of movie nights, where you'd take turns picking films from the vast world of science fiction. From classics like "Blade Runner" to newer releases exploring the complexities of artificial intelligence and space exploration, each movie sparked lively discussions that ranged from scientific theories to philosophical debates. On weekends when the BAU was quiet, you and Spencer ventured out beyond the confines of the office and his book-lined apartment. Running errands became a joint endeavor, transforming mundane tasks into opportunities for laughter and camaraderie. Grocery shopping turned into a quest to find the most obscure ingredients for Spencer's latest culinary experiment—often inspired by a scientific study or a quirky fact he'd read.

"I read that turmeric has potential neuroprotective properties," Spencer had mused one day in the spice aisle, carefully examining the labels on various jars.

"Does that mean you're going to start making brain-boosting curry?" you teased, looking at the options.

"Maybe I'll give it a try," he replied, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Switching up the recipe?"

You nodded. "Since we have dinner all the time, I thought I'd use you as a guinea pig for new recipes."

Spencer grimaced. "Anything for research, I guess."

You also discovered a shared love for exploring quirky bookstores tucked away in hidden corners of the city. Each visit was a treasure hunt for obscure novels, scientific journals, and occasionally, a rare first edition that would send Spencer into a state of quiet excitement. You'd spend hours browsing together, exchanging recommendations and discussing everything from literature to astrophysics. One particularly memorable afternoon, you stumbled upon a small independent bookstore that seemed frozen in time, its shelves packed with a dizzying array of books. Spencer had eagerly led the way to the science fiction section, his eyes alight with curiosity as he scanned the titles.

"This place is amazing," you murmured, running your fingers along the worn spines of old paperbacks.

"It really is," Spencer agreed, his voice tinged with genuine admiration. "I could spend hours here."

And spend hours you did, lost in the world of words and ideas, until the setting sun cast long shadows through the dusty windows, signaling it was time to reluctantly leave the sanctuary of books.

As the weeks turned into months, your friendship with Spencer unexpectedly deepened. Beyond the crime scenes and the high-stress situations, you found solace in each other's company, whether it was watching a thought-provoking sci-fi movie, embarking on an impromptu culinary experiment, or simply sharing a quiet moment of reflection in the presence of books. Spencer had spent the last few months avoiding questions about your friendship. The two of you would often text casually, making plans with each other more often than with the rest of the team. Prying eyes and curiosity had won over a team member or two. Your friendship had evolved into something deeper. You shared jokes and swapped books every few days. He’d spent hours thinking about his feelings. He dissected every time you’d touched.

The first time he felt a pang of the feeling he couldn’t describe was in Missouri.

The two of you were trying to navigate alongside a creek. Two campers had seen a canoe floating down the creek. The color matched a photo of the missing victim. Your boots crunched softly over the rotting leaves. The recent rainy weather made the ground unstable. According to park rangers, there’s usually an uptick in people slipping into the water. Spencer’s eye caught a flash of red amongst the brown and gray environment. You had gotten so caught up in the excitement for a clue that your foot teetered over a root. You began falling forward but Spencer was able to grab your arm. He attempted to brace himself, taking a step back. Instead, he took his own tumble, steadying himself against a tree. Your eyes had met for a moment. He could see the gratitude in your eyes.

“Thanks, Reid,” you murmured, brushing your hands off. You patted his arm in appreciation, turning back to the task at hand.

Spencer let you go slowly, the pat you’d given his arm still feeling heavy against his skin. You reached the canoe before he could properly think about it.

The second time he felt that dip was in New York City. A case had dragged them out to the city and the weather kept them there for an extra day. The BAU found a small restaurant around the corner from the hotel. You’d sat at other ends of the table, chattering with the team. At the end of the night, you’d psst at him to stay back.

“What?” He asked once the team had walked away.

“I got these tickets for you.” You held up two tickets to a theater in Lower Manhattan. There was a screening of a foreign film Spencer had spent weeks begging you to watch. You just couldn’t shell out the $14.99 to watch it at home.

“How did you get these? I checked earlier and they were sold out!”

You smiled. “I’m not going to lie, I had to beg for these from some lady on Craigslist.”

“Thank you!” He gushed. “Care to join me?”

“Me?”

His smile faltered for a second. “Yeah, Y/N. I don’t think anyone else would like it.”

After the film, hours slipped by as you talked about the film. The conversation flowed effortlessly, passionate about the film and it’s camerawork. Morning dawned and you’d woken up on the bed, facing the window. Spencer laid beside you, facing the opposite wary. You had plans to sightsee with Emily and JJ while Spencer wanted to visit a library or two.

A tap on the microphone on the small stage brought Spencer back to the gala. Derek chuckled, apparently having tried to pull him into the conversation with Rossi. The music resumed after the introductions. Spencer moved around the room, mingling with a few departments from the FBI. He caught sight of you through a few people. He began making his way towards you, stopping as he finally caught a full view of you.

He found himself speechless as the way the blue dress fell over your body. The thin straps and cowl neckline framed your face. Your hair fell elegantly, loose waves traveling down your shoulders. The deep blue fabric shimmered under the dim lighting. Spencer took note of how the dress complimented your figure, showing off every curve and bump. You were talking to a man, older. Spencer was completely mesmerized by how you listened so intently, brows furrow and making direct eye contact. So relaxed, yet so professional. The burning sensation in his stomach returned. Only now, he could pinpoint his feelings.

I’m in love with my best friend

Spencer took a deep breath, turning away. He found himself at the bar, a voice ordering for him. “Ice water!" Morgan clapped Spencer on the back. “Everyone saw that, lover boy.”

Spencer could feel his cheeks burning. Perhaps water would be better than alcohol. Taking the glass of ice water offered by the bartender, Spencer took a slow sip, the cool liquid soothing his parched throat and calming his nerves. He appreciated Derek's attempt to inject humor into the moment, yet beneath the surface, a storm of emotions churned—a turmoil he couldn't easily articulate.

Derek, sensing the shift in Spencer's demeanor, paused for a moment, his playful expression fading into one of concern. He studied Spencer intently, noting the furrow of his brow and the uncharacteristic quietness that had settled over him.

"Hey, man," Derek said softly, his tone gentle now, devoid of its earlier jest. "You okay?"

Spencer hesitated, the weight of his confession still heavy upon him. He glanced at Derek, grateful for the genuine concern mirrored in his friend's eyes. "I… I don't know," he admitted quietly, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Derek nodded understandingly, sensing the gravity of the situation. "Talk to me, Reid," he encouraged, his voice low and supportive. "What's going on?"

Spencer took a deep breath, his thoughts racing as he struggled to articulate the tumultuous feelings swirling within him. "It's just… I've realized something," he began slowly, his words carefully chosen. "About Y/N." Derek waited patiently, sensing that this was more than just another case of Spencer overthinking. He knew that when Spencer spoke with this level of introspection, it meant something profound was at play. "I think… I think I'm in love with her," Spencer admitted quietly, his gaze dropping to his hands as he traced the rim of his glass. The admission hung between them, vulnerable and raw.

Derek's expression softened, understanding dawning in his eyes. “Yeah, we know, kid.”

“Then why didn’t I?”

Morgan shrugged. “You like her, and you’re scared.” Derek leaned forward slightly, his voice low and earnest. "Listen, man," he began, his gaze unwavering. "You're a great guy. Smart, kind, thoughtful—you've got so much to offer. Y/N is lucky to have you in her life."

Spencer swallowed hard, the weight of Derek's encouragement settling warmly in his chest. He had always valued his friend's opinion and respected his insights. Hearing Derek affirm his worth, especially in the context of his feelings for you, gave him a newfound sense of courage.

"You've gotta man up, Spence," Derek continued his tone firm yet supportive. "Life's too short to hold back. You know what you want—now go out there and get your girl."

Spencer nodded, a determined spark igniting in his eyes. He knew Derek was right. It was time to confront his feelings head-on, to take the leap of faith he had been avoiding for too long. You deserved to know how he felt, and he deserved the chance to see where their relationship could go.

"Thanks, Derek," Spencer said sincerely, his voice tinged with gratitude. "I needed to hear that."

Derek clapped him on the shoulder, a reassuring smile spreading across his face. "Anytime, kid. Now go make a move before someone else beats you to it," he teased lightly, the familiar twinkle of mischief returning to his eyes.

Spencer waded through the crowd. He reached you almost immediately. You smiled, quietly stepping away from the conversation to talk with him. “I made it! Sorry for not telling you earlier that I was late. Time just got away from me.”

“It’s okay. I’m glad you’re here.”

You smiled, looking around. You swayed along to the music.

“Hey, Y/N.” He blinked momentarily, lost in your eyes. “I… I just wanted to-” he huffed. “I’m sorry I’m not making any sense.”

You shook your head. “Take your time,” you said softly. “We have all the time in the world.”

He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "I wanted to say that… um, you know, I really enjoy working with you. And… and I value our friendship a lot." His words stumbled over each other, forming a disjointed confession that fell short of what he truly wanted to say.

Your expression softened, a gentle warmth in your eyes as you nodded. "I feel the same way, Spencer. You're a great colleague and friend."

Relief washed over him, mingled with a pang of regret at his inability to articulate his deeper feelings. "Thanks," he managed, his cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "I… I should go."

He was gone before you could respond. He sat down at the BAU table, trying to forget what just happened by half listening to a discussion over the appropriate level of drunk for a work function. As the evening progressed, Spencer found himself increasingly restless. The encounter with you replayed in his mind, each word scrutinized and analyzed. He was on the verge of getting up and leaving when the awards ceremony began. The room quieted as the host took the stage, announcing the start of the awards. Spencer shifted uncomfortably in his seat, the idea of being celebrated the furthest thing from his mind. He scanned the crowd, his eyes seeking you out, but you were nowhere to be seen.

"And now, for the recognition of ten years of service at the BAU, we honor Dr. Spencer Reid."

The applause was thunderous as Spencer's name was called. He stood, a mixture of surprise and pride swelling in his chest. His colleagues clapped enthusiastically, their faces beaming with admiration and support. He made his way to the stage, accepting the plaque with a humble smile.

As he stood there, the applause continued to fill the room, a tangible expression of the respect and camaraderie he had earned over the years. Looking out at the sea of familiar faces, he saw Derek, Hotch, JJ, Emily, Rossi, and even Garcia, all cheering him on. The moment was bittersweet, filling his heart with warmth and gratitude, yet tinged with the absence of the one person he longed to see.

He stepped down from the stage, the applause still echoing in his ears. As he returned to the BAU table, the sense of accomplishment was overshadowed by the lingering ache in his heart. He scanned the room once more, hoping to catch a glimpse of you, but you were still missing.

Derek leaned over, his voice low. "You did great up there, man."

"Thanks," Spencer replied, his voice distracted. "But I didn't see Y/N."

Derek's expression softened. "She's around here somewhere. Don't worry, man. You'll get your chance."

As he pressed the button and waited for the elevator, his mind was a chaotic blend of thoughts and feelings. He clutched the plaque, a tangible symbol of his dedication and hard work over the past decade. But his thoughts kept drifting back to you, the one person he hadn't seen since his awkward confession. The elevator arrived with a soft ding, and Spencer stepped inside, leaning against the cool metal wall. He closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath to steady himself.

Just as the doors began to close, a familiar voice called out. "Hold the elevator!"

Spencer's eyes snapped open, and he instinctively reached out to press the 'Open' button. The doors parted again, and there you were, stepping inside with a grateful smile.

"Thanks, Spencer," you said, brushing a strand of hair behind your ear. "I was starting to think I'd be stuck here all night."

Spencer's heart raced as he tried to compose himself. "No problem," he managed to say, his voice steady despite the tumultuous emotions swirling inside him.

The doors closed, and the elevator began its descent. The two of you stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the only sound the soft hum of the machinery.

"So, how did the rest of the night go for you?" you asked, breaking the silence.

"It was… nice," Spencer replied, his mind still processing the evening's events. "But I needed a break. It was a lot to take in."

You nodded in understanding. "Yeah, these events can be overwhelming. I get it." You fiddled with your dress. "Thank you for coming."

Spencer glanced at you, noticing the way the dim light of the elevator highlighted your features. He felt a surge of affection and determination. This was his chance to tell you how he felt, to finally be honest with himself and with you. Before he could gather the courage to speak, you looked at him with a hopeful expression. "Hey, do you think you could give me a ride home? I wasn't really in the mood to stay any longer, and I could use the company."

Spencer's heart swelled with relief and excitement. "Of course," he said, his voice warm. "I'd be happy to."

The elevator reached the ground floor, and the doors opened to the quiet lobby. The two of you stepped out together, walking side by side toward the exit. The cool night air greeted you as you left the building, a refreshing change from the warmth of the gala. Spencer led you to his car, unlocking it with a click of the remote. You both settled into the seats, the familiar scent of the car bringing a sense of comfort. As he started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot, Spencer stole a glance at you, his resolve strengthening.

The drive was mostly quiet, the city lights casting a gentle glow on the streets. Spencer's mind raced with thoughts of how to start the conversation, but every time he opened his mouth, the words seemed to vanish.

Finally, you broke the silence. "Spencer, I just wanted to say thank you for being such a good friend. You've been there for me in ways I can't even begin to describe."

Spencer's grip tightened on the steering wheel. This was his moment. He took a deep breath, summoning all the courage he could muster. “I really appreciate you too, Y/N.”

You grinned at him. “Take a left on Wilcox Ave.”

“Your apartment is a right turn?”

“Just do what I say,” you smiled.

Spencer followed your directions, curiosity piqued as he navigated the quiet streets. The city lights gradually faded, replaced by the serene darkness of a park. He parked the car, glancing over at you with a mixture of confusion and anticipation.

You stepped out of the car, taking off your shoes and feeling the cool grass beneath your feet. Spencer hesitated for a moment before following your lead. You wandered toward a pond, the full moon reflecting off the still water like a mirror. The air was crisp and refreshing, filled with the subtle sounds of nature.

"This is beautiful," Spencer murmured, taking in the tranquil scene. You smiled, looking around. "I come here when I need to think. It helps clear my mind."

Spencer watched as you walked closer to the pond, your silhouette framed by the moonlight. He felt a rush of affection, the moment surreal and perfect. You turned to him, your eyes reflecting the same light as the water.

"Do you remember that episode of Star Trek we watched last week?" you asked, your voice breaking the silence.

Spencer nodded, stepping closer. "Yeah, 'The City on the Edge of Forever.' One of my favorites."

You sighed, a small frown forming on your face. "I didn't really get the part where they had to let Edith die to restore the timeline. It seemed so cruel."

Spencer's heart ached at your words, understanding your confusion. "It's a pivotal moment in the series. It shows the complexity of time travel and the moral dilemmas that come with it. Sometimes, to preserve the greater good, difficult choices have to be made."

You nodded slowly, processing his explanation. "But still, it just felt so unfair. She was such a good person."

"She was," Spencer agreed. "And that's what makes it so impactful. The sacrifice was necessary, but it wasn't easy. It makes you question the cost of doing the right thing."

You sat down on the grass, looking out at the water. Spencer joined you, feeling the cool earth beneath him. The conversation flowed naturally, shifting from Star Trek to other shared interests. You laughed and debated, your voices mingling with the sounds of the night. As the time passed, Spencer felt a deep sense of contentment. This was what he cherished most about your friendship—the ability to connect on such a profound level. He glanced at you, your face illuminated by the moonlight, and felt a surge of emotion.

"Y/N," he began softly, his heart pounding. "I need to tell you something."

You looked at him, curiosity and warmth in your eyes. "What is it, Spencer?"

He took a deep breath, summoning all the courage he had. "I value our friendship more than anything, but I also have deeper feelings for you. I've been trying to sort through them, and I realized that I'm in love with you."

You paused, your eyes widening in surprise. Spencer's heart sank, misinterpreting your silence. "I-I'm sorry if I crossed a line," he stammered, his voice shaky. "I didn't mean to make things awkward. Forget I said anything."

Before he could turn away, you reached out, gently cupping his face in your hands. Without a word, you leaned in and kissed him softly. The world seemed to stop for Spencer, his mind reeling as he processed what was happening.

When you pulled back, your eyes were warm and tender. "I knew," you whispered, a soft smile playing on your lips.

Spencer blinked, his mind struggling to catch up. "You… you knew?" You nodded, your smile growing. "Yeah, I did. And I feel the same way."

A wave of relief and joy washed over Spencer. "But how did you know? And how did everyone else know before me?"

You laughed softly, the sound like music to his ears. "You're not exactly subtle, Spencer. The way you look at me, the little things you do… it was pretty clear."

Spencer felt his cheeks flush, a mix of embarrassment and happiness. "I thought I was being discreet."

You shook your head, still smiling. "Not at all. But it's okay. I like that about you."

Spencer's heart soared, the weight of his unspoken feelings finally lifting. He pulled you into a hug, holding you close as the moonlight bathed you both in its gentle glow. As the first light of dawn began to break, you stood up, brushing the grass from your clothes. "We should probably head back."

Spencer nodded, standing up and following you back to the car. The drive back was quiet, but this time the silence was filled with unspoken promises and a newfound understanding.

When you finally reached your apartment, you turned to him, your expression sincere. "Thank you for tonight, Spencer. And for being honest with me."

Spencer teetered on his toes. “Is it okay if I kiss you goodnight?”

You nodded, snaking your arms around his neck. His hands landed on your hips, lips catching yours. He pulled back. “That dress looks amazing on you.”

“Thank you,” you blushed. “Goodnight.”

Spencer let you go, taking a few steps backwards. “Goodnight.” You unlocked your apartment door, stepping in. You peeked through the door, watching Spencer push the elevator button. “Though,” you said, “I do need someone to help me take it off. Or else I might have to wear it to work on Monday.”

Spencer turned around, his eyes widening slightly. “It’d be a shame. You look amazing.”

You gave him a playful smile, opening the door a little wider. “Then come on in, Doctor.”

Spencer hesitated for a moment, his mind racing with thoughts. But the invitation in your eyes was clear, and the warmth in your smile reassured him. He stepped forward, crossing the threshold into your apartment.

The door closed behind him, shutting out the world and leaving just the two of you in the cozy, dimly lit space. The air was thick with anticipation, but also a comforting familiarity. You turned your back to him, sweeping your hair to one side. "The zipper's a bit tricky," you said softly.

Spencer approached slowly, his hands trembling slightly as he reached for the zipper. He carefully pulled it down, the sound loud in the quiet room. His fingers brushed against your skin, sending shivers down both your spines.

"There," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

You turned to face him, the dress slipping slightly off your shoulders. "Thank you," you murmured, your eyes meeting his.

Spencer felt his breath catch in his throat, the moment charged with unspoken emotion. "You're welcome," he replied, his voice husky.

You took a step closer, closing the distance between you. "Spencer," you began, your tone serious now. "I meant what I said earlier. I do feel the same way about you. I just didn't know how to tell you."

He reached out, gently cupping your face in his hands. "I'm glad you did. And I'm glad I finally found the courage to tell you."

You smiled, leaning into his touch. "So what now?"

Spencer's heart raced, but he felt a newfound confidence. "Now, we see where this takes us. One step at a time."

You nodded, your smile widening. "I like that plan."

Spencer leaned in, capturing your lips in a tender kiss. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of you in this perfect moment. When you finally pulled back, both of you were breathless, but filled with a sense of rightness.

"Stay?" you asked softly, your eyes searching his.

Spencer nodded, his heart swelling with affection. "I'd love to."

You led him further into the apartment, the future uncertain but promising, filled with the possibilities of love and discovery. As the night wore on, you both knew that this was the beginning of something beautiful and real.

Bonus: “She left without her purse?” Emily asked, slightly hungover from the night before. She squinted, holding a hand up to shield her from the sun.

Derek shrugged. “Reid didn’t answer this morning when I stopped by. He was a mess about Y/N and he just disappeared.”

“Do you think there’s something wrong?”

“Let’s find out.” Derek knocked firmly, but there was no answer. He knocked again, louder this time, but the silence from the other side of the door persisted.

Emily exchanged a worried glance with Derek. “Maybe she’s just asleep?” she suggested, though she didn’t sound convinced.

Derek sighed. “Or maybe she’s avoiding us. Either way, we need to make sure she’s okay.”

Just as they were about to knock again, Spencer swung the door open. hand. Before he could greet them, you came around the corner, your hair tousled and wearing one of Spencer’s oversized shirts.

“Is it the pancakes we ordered?” You asked cheerfully, but paused when you saw your guests.

Derek smirked, holding up the purse. “Nope, just your friendly neighborhood FBI agents, returning a forgotten item.”

Your eyes widened. “Oh my gosh, thank you so much! I completely forgot about it.”

You must have left it at the table when you spotted Spencer by the elevator.

Emily grinned, stepping forward. “Mind if we come in?”

Spencer hesitated for a moment before stepping aside. “Sure, come on in.”

They entered the cozy apartment, taking in the relaxed atmosphere and the aroma of fresh coffee. Derek and Emily exchanged amused glances at the sight of Y/N and Spencer clearly having spent the night together.

Emily nudged Derek with a knowing smile. “Well, this is cozy.”

You blushed but didn’t seem embarrassed. “We were just about to have breakfast. Would you like to join us?”

Derek shook his head, still smirking. “Thanks, but we’ve already eaten. Just wanted to make sure you got your purse back.”

Emily’s eyes twinkled as she looked at Spencer. “We also wanted to check on Reid. He kind of vanished last night.”

Spencer cleared his throat, trying to maintain his composure. “Yeah, sorry about that. It was a… complicated night.”

Derek chuckled. “No kidding. But it looks like it all worked out.”

You smiled, slipping your hand into Spencer’s. “It did. Thanks for bringing my purse, though. I would’ve been lost without it.”

Derek and Emily shared another glance, then Emily pulled out a ten-dollar bill and handed it to Derek with a smirk. She muttered something quietly.

Derek’s grin widened as he took the bill. “Make it ten.”

“Deal,” Emily replied, shaking his hand.

Spencer and you exchanged confused looks.

“What’s that about?” Spencer asked.

“Nothing you need to worry about,” Derek said, still smirking. “Just make sure to invite us to the wedding.”

[hahnspoetrywrites]

Mistletoe and Misunderstandings (Lanfear x fem!reader)

A/N: I'm baaaaaack!! This is a Christmas themed fic, but it can be interpreted as modern day AU or set in the WoT universe, whichever you'd prefer!

Warnings: angst, arguments, Lanfear's initially a bit of an asshole but she gets better!, hints at smut at the end, use of the word 'fat' to describe Santa Claus... i can't think of any others!

PLEASE ENJOY!!! <3

tags: @baubeautyandthegeek <3

You truly thought your first Christmas together as a couple would be an exciting time, but with Lanfear, not so much. Lanfear didn’t believe in Christmas. As she explained to you, she was a scientist (a particle physicist to be exact), therefore she didn’t celebrate silly little traditions like Christmas. The revelation broke your heart but you understood. 

When Lanfear agreed to come with you to a Christmas market, you were confused but excited nonetheless. Until you actually got there. As you browsed the sweet stalls, admiring the handmade decorations, cute jumpers and other wares people were selling, Lanfear looked on with an unreadable expression but you knew it wasn’t a positive one. You walked on to the next section of the market, which was the food market. Different patrons from different stalls offered a variety of foods and drinks, some offering odd combinations of foods (not to mention one that sold a Yorkshire Pudding burrito). You decided to give Lanfear a break from browsing and sit at one of the numerous picnic benches dotted around the market. Lanfear sat as you went to order two hot chocolates for the pair of you. When you returned to the bench, Lanfear didn’t look at you. It stung, having her seem so annoyed at your excitement. You’d said before you left she didn’t have to come with you, but she insisted. 

“We don’t have to stay if you don’t want to,” You offered her the hot chocolate, watching her slender fingers curl around the paper cup as she thanked you.

“I know this isn’t your cup of tea so we can go… I don’t mind.” You sat, trying to work out what to say to Lanfear.

“It’s okay, we can stay. It’s interesting to watch people and their odd beliefs.” It was an almost snide comment, the look she gave you matched her annoyed and snide tone making you feel awful. She was only here to laugh at the happiness of others, simply because she didn’t believe in it.

“Really? Lanfear, you’re unbelievable.” You remarked, annoyance flooding your body.

“How, sweetheart? I’m allowed to not believe or want to celebrate.” Lanfear answered you condescendingly, angering you further.

“That’s not what I’m saying. All I’m saying is why would you want to come to a Christmas market celebrating the thing you hate just to mock others who find joy in the celebrations? It seems odd and I-“

“These people all believe a jolly fat man with a beard dressed in red is going to bring them gifts on one night every year? That reindeer can fly and pull a sleigh full of gifts and that man? Of course I find it funny.” Lanfear continued, laughing gently at the idea of it but she couldn’t see the hurt on your face.

“That’s not what it’s all about, Lanfear.” Your voice was quiet, not wanting to continue this conversation if Lanfear wasn’t going to understand or listen to you. Lanfear noticed your demeanor change and exhaled an exasperated chuckle. She went to reach for your hands but you pulled away.

“Sweetheart, I’m not saying these things about you or including you in this.” Lanfear tried to reason but you’d had enough.

“No, Lanfear, you are. It’s not just about some ‘jolly fat man’ as you so wonderfully put it. It’s about spending time with the people you love and showing them how much you love them. Showing how grateful you are and sharing the love you feel for people through gifts and food and spending time with them. It’s not just about the story or the man, it’s about feeling loved and sharing that love and sharing it with those who you care about. No matter what I say or do, you’re never going to believe or understand it because you’re so caught up in your scientific brain you can’t even begin to comprehend it. I don’t understand why you can’t just let someone enjoy something.” 

Your small rant made Lanfear’s face drop. You shook your head gently before wiping your nose, the cold had caused your nose to run slightly (not the tears that gently flooded your eyes). 

“You know what, Lanfear? I don’t think I can do this right now, I’ll see you later,”

You didn’t hesitate to get up and leave, rushing back into the crowd before Lanfear could stop you. 

“Baby? Wait!” Lanfear rushed to stand, leaving your drinks behind.

She tried to follow your familiar coat through the crowd, weaving between families and couples and groups of friends as they shopped and spent time with each other. She reached a little crossroads in the market, sighing when she couldn’t see you anywhere. Her heart broke, she didn’t mean to upset you. The guilt swarmed her, adding to the fact that she lost you made it all the more painful. She found an empty table and took a seat, head in her hands as she thought about what she’d said. She glanced up, watching a young couple stand by a stall. They were cuddled up together, admiring the items sold when one partner turned to look at the other before they kissed gently, still cuddled up together as they moved away.

That could’ve been you and her right now if she’d just kept her mouth shut. Sometimes she wondered how you were still with her. You put up with so much, you never complained or said anything about her odd rituals or likes and dislikes. You dealt with her fits of anger and rage, calmed her when she was upset and celebrated when she was happy or excited. But she couldn’t even fake an evening of enjoyment for your happiness. You didn’t deserve her, you deserved so much better. Her eyes stung with tears at the thought of how undeserving she was of you. 

“Lanfear, you are an unbelievable idiot sometimes.” Lanfear muttered to herself before standing up and walking off to try and find you. The market was still heavily crowded, considering the late hour but continued on for a while, almost doing an entire lap of the market to find you. Lanfear was almost ready to give up when she spotted your familiar coat. You were sitting on a bench underneath a heating lamp, shivering slightly. She rushed over to you, her need to fix things with you more desperate than she realised. 

“Sweetheart, are you okay?” Lanfear sat down next to you quickly, making you jump as you were absorbed by your thoughts. Her hand cupped your cheek softly, tilting your head so you could face her. You nodded softly, not wanting to argue or fight anymore, you didn’t have the energy.

“Baby, I’m so sorry for what I said and how I’ve behaved this evening. I never intended to hurt or upset you.” Lanfear started, but found herself unwilling to continue when you seemed distant. She couldn’t blame you, really.

“Baby, please.” Lanfear begged, she would do anything to fix this and make you happy. You glanced away from her, not wanting to argue. 

“Let’s just go home, Lanfear.” You muttered gently, not wanting to keep this conversation going but when you looked back at Lanfear, you couldn’t help but feel your heart break at how sad she looked. Her expression was guilt-ridden, heartbroken and it made you want to leave even more. You didn’t want this night to end like this. 

“No, I don’t want us to go home like this. I still want you to have a nice evening, even if I was miserable.” Lanfear sighed, pressing a gentle kiss to your cheek, watching you fight a gentle smile that couldn’t help but spread across your face. 

“I know I’m not the best girlfriend. I’m stubborn, argumentative, sometimes self-centred, short-tempered-”

“Lanfear, honey, you can stop.” You giggled slightly at her seemingly never-ending list of negative traits.

“What I mean to say is, I’ve not been the best girlfriend to you, whereas you’ve been an angel. My angel. I realised tonight I’ve not taken anything you enjoy or care about into proper consideration. And if you’d let me, I’d like to give this whole Christmas thing another go, and I’d like to make up, or at least start to make up for all of my mood swings and poor behaviour. I never meant to hurt you, that’s something I never want to do. I love you and I'm so sorry.”

You glanced at Lanfear, her eyes filled with sincerity and genuine love. Her eyes always had that twinkle, like every time she looked at you, she was seeing a goddess. Even when she wasn’t in the best mood, it would still be there, even if it was slightly dulled by her bad mood. You smiled at her softly. 

“We don’t have to stay. I love you… and thank you. For your apology and for everything.” Lanfear smiled back at you, smiling at you brightly before kissing you, her warm lips touching your colder ones briefly before she pulled away. 

“Sweetheart, you’re freezing! C’mon, I know just what you need.” Lanfear pulled away gently, removing her scarf to wrap around you, her warmth still clinging to the material. Lanfear pulled you up and back into the now quieter Christmas market, most people finally leaving after realising how late it was. But that just made Lanfear more determined to get to her destination, which was the small stall where you’d bought the hot chocolates earlier. As Lanfear ordered, you glanced up at the dark sky as small snowflakes began to fall. You squeezed her hand to grab her attention. 

“Baby?” She asked, concern creeping into her voice as she turned to look at you. 

“Look, it’s snowing!” You exclaimed joyfully. 

Lanfear smiled, watching your eyes widen in happiness. It warmed her heart to see you so happy, she never wanted that feeling to fade or the smile on your face to disappear. She grabbed your hot chocolates, offering yours for you to take before taking your hand back into her own. You both continued walking in a comfortable silence, admiring the stalls together and watching the snowfall as you sipped your beverages. Lanfear discarded her finished hot chocolate cup in the bin before she stopped the pair of you walking for a few moments. 

“Something’s missing. I’m not sure what it is though.” Lanfear thought aloud, making you giggle. 

“There’s snow, pretty lights, I’m feeling nice and warm thanks to the hot chocolate-” Lanfear tickled your side gently as she pulled you closer into her, making you yell out in protest,

“And my lovely girlfriend too!! You didn’t think I’d leave you out did you?” You laughed at Lanfear’s fake expression of heartbreak.

“I don’t know what to think anymore! Aha!” Lanfear exclaimed in excitement before she waved her hand around gently, channelling a small weave which disappeared up into the tree. 

“What? Did you work out what was missing?” You asked, loving when Lanfear used her powers as it was fascinating. 

“I did, baby.” Lanfear smiled as she arched her eyebrows up, her eyes following to glace upwards. You copied her and noticed a small branch sprouting mistletoe directly above your head. 

“You know, mistletoe is called the kissing plant after the Norse god Figg lost her son Baldur to an arrow made of mistletoe and she vowed that mistletoe would kiss anyone who passed beneath-” You interrupted her sentence by kissing her, your lips moving in sync with hers as she relaxed and held you closer. Your free hand held her cheek as your other still grasped your unfinished hot chocolate whilst hers settled around your waist. She felt relief and love flood her veins holding you this close to her. Lanfear knew she had a lot to make up for, and she would start now, but she would forever be grateful for you. You made her a better person in so many ways and she would show you how every chance she got. When you both pulled away, you had to catch your breath. 

“Figg vowed that anyone who passed beneath mistletoe would be kissed so long as it was never used as a weapon.” Lanfear finished her sentence breathlessly and you rolled your eyes playfully.

“I love you, my angel.” Lanfear whispered gently after a moment. You smiled before pecking her lips softly. 

“I love you too, my darling. And thank you, for making this night perfect.” You smiled before pulling her forward. 

“Even with our little… moment?” Lanfear asked, anxious about mentioning it again. 

“Yes, even with our little moment. No couple gets through Christmas without a misunderstanding or two. It’s okay, Lanfear. We’re okay, I promise you.” You reassured her, but part of it was reassuring you too. You knew Christmas could be hard but as long as you were both honest and transparent with each other you’d be fine. 

“I love you so much. My beautiful angel,” She kissed your temple before guiding you towards the stall she’d seen the couple shopping at earlier. As you both stood, admiring the jewellery, you spotted a beautiful crescent moon necklace, the charm small and delicate on the chain. You picked up the box it sat in gently, smiling at how sweet it was. 

“What’s that, baby?” You put it back down when Lanfear asked. 

“Nothing, just being nosy.” Although you weren’t looking at her, you knew she was giving you an incredulous look. You continued down the stall, looking at the other items they sold, before Lanfear covered your eyes with one hand. 

“Close your eyes.” You laughed, not sure why but you closed them.

“They’d better be closed, sweetheart.” She warned.

“They’re closed! Lanfear, what are you doing?” You asked as you smiled widely, a small chuckle escaping your mouth. You felt her place something around your neck, before she moved to hold your shoulders, her head resting on one. 

“Open, angel.” You opened your eyes to find the small crescent moon necklace you’d seen sitting around your neck, the mirror in front of you also showing Lanfear’s smile as she watched you in the mirror. Her eyes shined with love, as did yours. 

“An early Christmas present for my angel,” She kissed your cheek gently, before you turned to face her. 

“You didn’t have to, honey. Honestly, having you here with me is enough.” You kissed her gently, smiling against her lips. 

“But… I did buy some new bits of lingerie I’d like to model for you when we get back. If that’s a good enough gift exchange for you?” You teased, watching her eyes light up with mischief.

“Oh baby, that’s the best gift you could get me,” She trailed kisses down your face before leaving a gentle hickey on your neck.

“You’re the only gift I want under my tree.”

[fleckcmscott]

Every Day

Summary: After their first New Year's celebration, Arthur and Y/N ponder how to proceed.

Words: 3,731

Warnings: None

A/N: Familiar ground is covered in this story, but with my last few pieces being set later in Arthur and Y/N's relationship, I wanted to revisit the blooms at the beginning. I hope you all like it! Many thanks to @jokerownsmysoul​ for beta-ing! 😃

If you have any thoughts or questions, please comment, feel free to message me, or send me an ask. Requests for Arthur and WWH are open!

December 31st, 1981.

One week ago. Seven days. One hundred and forty-seven hours - not that she kept count. The night Y/N had screwed up her courage and told Arthur she wanted them to live together. Spilling that in Gotham Square, amidst sparkling fireworks and noisemakers, glittering confetti and flowing champagne, had been what she truly desired. Not a mere reflection of the city's dreams and hopes for new beginnings.

So why had neither of them brought it up again? A hush hushness that felt like a tacit endorsement of the status quo.

Not that their status quo was bad. It was pretty great, actually. Delightful, even. Her very own New Year's wish come true. He made her see and experience things in a different light. Stirred parts of her she'd forgotten, neglected. A maroon toothbrush camped in a plastic cup on her bathroom shelf, a box of Kotex had made its way to his. It was good and joyful, what they had.

The question prodded anew. Why the hell were they carrying on as if nothing had happened?

Typewriters clacking, she and Patricia chatted over the hammering of keys. "Does he want to move in with you?" Patricia asked, focus fixed on fluttering paper. "Is he that kind of guy?"

"Well." A bell announced the end of Y/N's typing line. She grabbed the wite-out to correct a p to an o. "He didn't say yes or no. He didn't say anything, really. But judging from how he kissed me, I can safely say he wouldn't mind."

"That good, huh?"

"I can still feel it in my toes."

Matt called from the office behind her. "Hearing that you have a personal life is going to be an adjustment."

Y/N rolled, swiveled to peek past the doorframe. "You're welcome to shut your door," she teased.

Her boss had a point, though. While she'd related her professional background, chatted about television shows and local news, the personal was a hand she kept close to her chest. Only recently had she disclosed to Patricia - a woman she considered her best friend - the surface of what she'd gone through with her father back in Missouri.

There wasn't much to discuss, anyway. Life was simple. She worked and got a bite to eat. Read the paper and stopped at magazine stands. Walked city parks and browsed the shops once or twice a week. A lovely, mundane life made whole by finally being where and who she was meant to be.

And now she had someone in that life whom she ached to be with every day. Who made her want to stretch into new interests, who asked her to share her own, unexpected treasures at her age. How on earth could she keep all that inside?

Crossing the room to sit on Patricia's desk, Y/N described the rarities. "Take comedy," she began. "I like the late shows as much as anyone else, or a funny movie once in a while. Beyond that?" A dismissive wave. "But I love Arthur's passion for it, learning from him, hearing his jokes. It's like when he puts on music I haven't listened to before."

"What's he like?" Patricia sipped her coffee, reclined in her leather chair.

"The classics."

"The Supremes? Elvis?"

"More like Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire."

Patricia squinted. "How old did you say he was?"

"He's younger than all of us but his heart's antique."

"You really are in love."

Tucking her bottom lip, Y/N grinned until her cheeks smarted. "Yeah. Yeah, I am."

"Y/N, take my advice," Matt said, now in the doorway. "Men aren't like women."

Hand on hip, she caught Patricia's Here We Go gaze, then angled her own on Matt. "Is that so?"

"Women tend to talk too much. Men don't need all those discussions. We want to just...do." The man lumbered closer - the same man who groveled to his ex-wife every other week. He brought his palms together as if delivering a final argument, trying to convince a jury to render a guilty plea. "Let him do. What comes comes. You're a bright woman. It'll work out."

As poorly expressed as Matt's thesis was (and the behind the scenes it explained), her gut told her he'd gotten that last sentence right. After a moment, Y/N bobbed her chin in appreciation. He gave a dumb, pleased little wave and retreated to his office.

Patricia's unforgiving elbow jabbed her thigh. "Get back to your desk before he opens his mouth again."

~~~~~

Arthur itched to talk about it. Truly. Cross his heart, hope to die, needle in the eye and all that.

At the grocery store the other night, he'd felt brave enough. Strolling the aisles, filling their respective baskets, holding hands between picking products. Seltzer and marked down Christmas TV dinners for him, a popular brand of tea and World Tour Swanson's for her.

He'd repeated the opening in his head a hundred times, scrawled it in his journal a thousand more. In the shadow of a grand, football shaped display of potato chips, he'd watched her. (Was the amount of time he watched her when they were together creepy? He didn't want to be creepy. He wanted to be a man in love.) She'd studied a bag. He'd gripped his basket tighter.

"I wanted to ask you..." Arthur's breath ran out.

Y/N put the bag in her basket, next to a carton of eggs. "Yes?"

"Um." The bravery he'd been so confident of threatened to run out, too. He'd shrugged, forced himself to smile, his tongue in armed revolt against his brain. "How your pretzels were?"

She'd stared at him as if he'd lost his mind. Which of course he had. "How my pretzels were?"

"Yeah." He'd slid closer to hide his screw up, body language smoother than spoken. Act casual. "The ones you bought for New Year’s." He'd managed to name the day, a split hair's breadth from success! "The mustard kind?"

One slow blink. "Honey mustard. They were good. Did you want some?" She'd reached towards the display.

"No," he'd said, a bit too fast.

"All right."

Five weird seconds that stretched like five hours. Arthur prayed he'd turn invisible so he could flee. A hiccup, a conscious effort to constrict his throat, hold his breath against a laugh.

An easy arm had curled around the crook of his elbow, led them to the checkout. "I have some left. You're welcome to them," she'd said. His diaphragm had calmed to a quiet cough.

Perhaps he could broach the subject tonight. That was the plan, anyway, as he jaunted down the concrete stairs. In his hurry to get to Y/N, he'd forgotten his hat and mittens, an oversight sure to perturb her. The wintry mix of snow and rain turned the light waves of his hair to curls, his lips frigid as a Frigidaire. Shivering, he pulled his tan hood over his head, yanked the strings tight.

He could do this. He just had to put his mind to it. After all, if they hadn't exchanged keys it was still a hypothetical, which meant it was still safe.

Not that she wasn't a safe haven. She was the one who'd taught him what safe haven meant. But there was a lot to consider beyond eternal bliss.

She'd bought movie tickets last Tuesday, insisted on paying for dinner Thursday, offered an evening casserole and wine after she'd seen the receipt for his new insomnia medication. He'd cursed himself for leaving it on the counter and declined. Poverty was the usual and he was used to it. Now it pricked like a bushel of thorns.

A couple days ago, he'd met Dr. Ludlow, an appointment made after Christmas, after a long talk with Y/N. (Though she'd made no such hints, he suspected that committing to treatment was necessary for her to fully commit to him.) The introductory session had consisted of rehashing every diagnosis, histories he'd rather forget. Dr. Ludlow was nice and all, made him comfortable, appeared willing to listen. No hard candies but he could smoke to his heart's content. When he'd wanted to schedule another appointment, he'd pushed out a bashful request for some type of payment plan.

"The first few sessions are taken care of." She'd smiled at him like she was delivering good news. "That should take you through March, then we can go from there."

Hovering at the doctor's desk, he'd found himself unable to move. That act of generosity was an island's leap from free chicken parmesan. He was at once deeply moved - and deeply unsettled.

Was it possible to be both the Man of the House and a financial burden at once?

Maybe. Maybe not. Probably maybe not.

Probably maybe he should slam the brakes on this train of thought. Shaking those notions off, he knocked on Y/N's door.

"Where is your hat?" Wifely exasperation right on cue. Chilled cheeks burned crimson at the association. He kissed her full lips but she retreated, wincing. "You're freezing. We need to warm you up. You should take a-"

"Bath. I will." He'd showered that morning, but he wouldn't argue. It'd be hard to enjoy himself as a popsicle. Unzipping, unbuttoning, he started towards the bathroom, dripping across the carpet.

~~~~~

Laundry folded and put away, Arthur's clothes draped over the radiator (his socks and briefs had somehow stayed dry), Y/N busied herself with the Gotham Journal. Thomas Wayne's mayoral bid continued to stomp across the front page, another article reported Brezhnev's latest threats. An ad for canned diced tomatoes featured a recipe for Mediterranean stuffed peppers. She dog-eared that page for later.

At a quarter to eight, she folded the paper on her lap and looked towards the bathroom door. Light spilled beneath it, the sound of a couple soft splashes. There was no sign it would open soon, and she was growing eager. Ready to reclaim last week's courage, she set off to retrieve her bathrobe.

Just as she was about to knock, a muffled hum halted her hand. Low, baritone, a caress to the ear. She pressed her frame closer to the wood. Rasped syllables between bars, a pitch that stuck to the back of the throat at higher notes. Though the song was unknown to her, she guessed it was the kind of old romantic tune that'd made her gush to Patricia.

It was adorable, her boyfriend serenading himself in the tub, and she adored him for it. Her younger self had assumed passion would lose its wonder as she grayed and wrinkled. Yet, she found she wasn't much different from that girl back in Boonville. The love she had for Arthur felt as fresh as new beginnings.

When he spent the night, he usually let her sleep until her alarm. But there were times she'd wake to his face buried in the nape of her neck, his stubble rough between her shoulders. Arm tight at her waist, fingers splayed on her abdomen. On those mornings she couldn't bear to move. Perfect moments she wanted to live in forever.

A glow sparked within her, propelled her forward. She knocked but didn't wait for a reply. "You can use this, if you'd like," she said, indicating the robe, cutting through the muggy air. "It shouldn't be too snug. I bought a couple sizes too big." She laid it on the closed toilet and turned to face him.

A navy blue washcloth drifted through the water, a bar of Ivory soap floated on the surface. Arthur sat straight as a fence, penis and hands tucked firmly between his thighs, which flexed in an uneven rhythm.

She floundered for a moment. Had his mother walked in on him like this? In the middle of getting dressed or washing up, a grown man without privacy? Had she just been as inconsiderate as Penny?

Y/N's nose wrinkled. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt. I'll go put the kettle on."

A shake of the head told her not to worry. "No, it's all right." His pale green glance was earnest, flashed with a shimmer that might have been hope. A muscle twitched along his jaw, the corners of his lips folded inward. Brown waves tumbled forward, knotted from the wet cold.

She ventured a pace towards him. "Would you like me to wash your hair?" Not long ago, he'd mentioned he always cut it himself, hadn't ever had the salon experience.

Dark brows lifted as he processed the request. "You don't have to."

"I'd love to," she said, perching on the tub's rim. "It's my favorite part of getting my hair done. Nothing washes away a trying day quite like it."

Whenever she suggested touching him in a new way, it didn't take much convincing. Tonight was no different. He dunked under the water immediately. Rivulets sculpted cutting cheekbones, drops fell from the rounded tip of his nose.

Sleeves rolled to her elbows and a dollop of shampoo in her palm, she laced her fingers through not yet silky locks. A stubborn tangle caught her left thumbnail. She stood for better leverage, working through his chestnut mop, now dark as velvet winter skies. The lather thickened with each stroke.

"Does that feel good?" she asked.

Not unlike his earlier singing, he hummed. "Mmm."

Sleet pinged the nearby window. She raked her nails along his scalp. "When we took a bath at your place, you said you were thinking about the future." A safe a way to breach the conversation, a lovely memory for them both. The night he'd confessed he loved her.

"Yeah. One with you." He rested in the curved end of the tub. "I've been thinking about what you said. About living together."

Her pulse skipped into next week. "Does that mean you want to?"

"No. I mean- I dunno. I like the idea, but I- I don't have a lot of money. My apartment's expensive, Penny's stuff is everywhere, and...I haven't lived anywhere else. Your apartment's newer. And I know you hate the cigarette smell at mine."

That was a fact she couldn't deny. She hadn't complained, having no desire to hurt him. But given that she didn't allow smoking anywhere besides the fire escape, it wasn't hard to deduce. Kneading slowed to a languid massage. She cleared relief from her throat, relief their relationship wasn't the cause of his hesitation. "This one's about the same age, just remodeled. And your place is spacious compared to some of the apartments I've seen." Her mind flashed to Mrs. McPhee's, the kitchen, living, and dining rooms combined into one ten by ten coop.

The pad of her thumb followed his strong brow. "I've been meaning to ask you something." Her hand snuck past his shoulder, traced droplets on his pectoral, dipped beneath the water's surface. "Were you always this thin?"

He frowned, tensed beneath her touch. "I thought you liked it."

"I do, I do. It's just that you have a bit of a love handle. Righhht...here." A pinch to his squishy flank, tickles to his ribs.

Sudden giggles, laughter that sounded ten years younger. He splashed her with a flick of the wrist, streaks of lilac sweater darkening to violet. "I lost weight when I started my medication. My mother used to say-" he raised his voice an octave here "'-You need to eat. Look at how skinny you are.'" A roll of the eyes, his whole head. "I guess that doesn't matter anymore."

"It doesn't have to," Y/N said. Then she scoffed at herself, at the hypocrisy of confirming he could let go of the past when hers continued to bleed at the edges. Before he could assume the scoff was at him, she added, "Maybe living here would help with that." He made no response.

Bending closer, she gathered his hair at the nape of his neck, wrung out lather. Suds slipped down her forearms. Automatically, he relaxed into her, curls clinging to her fingertips. Conversation ceased. She was unaware of the nearness of her breasts to his face.

A whispered trail on the seam of her sweater. Along her abdomen, across her stomach, up, up, up. He cupped her breast, cradled her as if she was a mirage. Wetness seeped through the acrylic. Her motions halted. The humidity of the room thickened to a pleasant fog.

Arthur's Adam's apple bobbed, his gaze darted to hers. "I don't want sex."

Careful to keep shampoo out of his eyes, she smoothed stray strands from his forehead. "You can touch me whenever you want, wherever you want. With or without sex." She nudged the tip of his nose with hers. "I want you to touch me every day. That's how you'll get used to it."

Reservation melted into an easy smile, tinged with a bashful pride. Akin to a suitor recalling how well he'd done on a date. Moving to catch her chin, he admired the handprint on her shirt and stole a kiss.

Her toes curled anew. And in the corner of her eye, so did his.

~~~~~

After handing him a fresh towel, Y/N left to change. An oversized sweatshirt would do, a faded sage green. With its hem at her hips, she decided to forego pants in favor of pale pink middle-aged panties. A choice for candid familiarity.

As she poured honey mustard pretzels in a wooden bowl, filled the tea kettle with water, Arthur shuffled through the living room. He flipped through her meager record collection, about ten LPs in total. The console stereo remained shut.

"There's nothing romantic in here," he said.

"I have a feeling Al Green would disagree." She'd played Let's Stay Together often as of late, a soundtrack to dusting and dishes, lines and lyrics bringing Arthur to mind.

The radio sprang to life, the GCR nightly news hour. Buzzing, static, the squeal of an out of key jingle. Finally, he reached his goal. Warm strings, a plaintive timbre.

"What station is this?" she asked. Bumping into Sinatra the evening he'd come for dinner had been pure luck.

"GPR. They play oldies Tuesday and Thursday nights and Sunday mornings." He sidled up beside her, robe cinched tight at the waist, chest peeking out from the white terrycloth. Soft notes continued while they waited for the water to boil. Quiet, lovely companionship in this basic task.

When she filled the mugs, the collar of her sweatshirt fell down her shoulder. A moment, two, and he put his arm about her. His thumb ventured to her collarbone. Tapping, settling into a comfortable caress. She jutted her hip against him.

He gave her a squeeze. "When you were a little girl, what did you dream about? What future did you want?"

Both hands cupping her mug, she put her elbows on the counter. In truth, that was hard to conjure. Married at seventeen, college four months later, degree at twenty-two. Childhood dreams had remained distant since - well, since she was a little girl. Not that she regretted that history. It'd simply resulted in practicality instead of preoccupation.

And the prior decade of distress had done a pretty thorough job of grinding down whatever parts of her could still imagine in that way. Even with the medication she'd taken towards the end. She'd lived moment to moment, survived hour to hour for so long. Thinking of it reminded her of all she'd lost, when it should've reminded her of all she'd gained. It irked her, how small it made her feel, small enough to rival a camel going through the eye of a needle.

But Arthur wasn't aware of the rusty gears and cranks of her past. He deserved an answer.

"I wanted to grow up, but I wanted life to stay the same. Does that make sense?" She blew ripples across chamomile. "I had a good childhood. I was lucky. My parents were supportive and proud. My sister was my best friend, even when she annoyed the hell out of me. I wanted to keep those things, like a photograph that wouldn't fade. But I also wished for a career, to make a home with the man I loved. I didn't understand what that kind of love was, not yet. But I saw what my parents had and wanted my own happily ever after." A soreness threatened her vocal cords, for theirs had been cut short. She sipped it away. "What about you?"

The answer came quickly, as if he'd been waiting to be asked his whole life. "Meeting my dad." He dunked his cinnamon teabag, his strong brow weakening. "I always wondered what I did to make him leave."

Heat enveloped her neck. "You didn't do anything, Arthur. You didn't do anything. He's the one who missed out, not you." A rash response, one that wouldn't heal his wounds. But a salve she hoped would soothe - and what she believed.

He wound the teabag's string through the mug's handle. The corner of his mouth curved, a subtle nod of the head. The hand on her shoulder drew a line down her arm to entwine their fingers. Turning her towards him, he grasped her hip.

From the tender light in his eyes, it was plain where this was headed. And she hadn't had any wine to help her get over herself. Her palm pressed his sternum in a halfhearted attempt to save her dignity. "We've done this once."

Their clasped hands were now at shoulder height. "Not enough," he said.

"You haven't had a chance to see how bad I am at this."

"We just have to practice."

"But I can't hear when to step," she said, and shifted foot to foot.

"Didn't you enjoy it the first time?"

She weakened in his arms, her protestations dissolving in her throat. "I loved it."

"Then let me lead. You don't have to all the time." The warmth of his blinding smile echoed in his gentle instruction. Touch firm but tender, his fingers splayed on the small of her back. "If we live together, I'll want you to dance with me every day. That’s how you'll get used to it."

She chuckled, laid her head on his shoulder. The fresh scent of soap rolled off him. She nestled deeper for another whiff. On a sigh, she pressed a lingering kiss to his neck. "Make sure to hold me to that.”

~~~~~

Tag list (Let me know if you want to be added!): @harmonioussolve​​​​​​​ @ithinkimaperson​​​​​​​ @sweet-nothings04​​​​​​​ @stephieraptorr​​​​ @rommies​​​​​​​ @fallenstarsabyss @gruffle1​​​​​​​ @another-day-in-chuckletown​ @hhandley80​​​​​​​ @jokerownsmysoul​​​​​​​ @rafaelbottom @ralugraphics​​​​​​​ @iartsometimes​​​​​​​ @fleckficgirl​

[an-indecisive-mess]

(Love)Storytime: Part 3

In honor of Valentine’s Day, instead of making another picture, I decided to bring back another love story of mine. So, up next for my F/O love stories is Hermes, messenger of the gods, god of swiftness, thievery, trade, travel… you get the idea. It’s actually also the 5th anniversary of me realizing I was in love with him And if you folks thought me finding out I was in love with XL and Wendell was a real doozy, wait till you read how Hermes stole my heart (get it?).

I remember first watching Hercules when I was very young (saw 3 or 4 years old), and I remember seeing Hermes and thinking “Hey, this guy seems pretty cool.” And, yeah, that’s all that I ever thought of him as I got older and rewatched the movie over a million times. So, falling in love with Hermes was probably the biggest surprise out of any of the other F/Os, and that’s saying something. I mean, the guy was only in the movie for, what, 5 minutes? But he made quite the impression on me. Heck, I loved how, when rediscovering the series at age thirteen, they gave Hermes more personality in the tv series and how he acted as an older brother figure to Hercules (I mean, he technically is his older brother, but whatever). I always liked how chill and fun he was, and as I got to learn more about Greek Mythology, I also learned more about Hermes and how he was more than just a messenger boy. He was helpful to pretty much everyone in the myths. And yeah, he loved causing trouble, but I liked that about him.

Anyway, here comes the more interesting part of the story. It was none other than Valentine’s Day when I was nineteen. I don’t know how or why, but I just started thinking about Hermes that day, and I browsed through Tumblr that day and found a whole account that was dedicated to this particular guy. There were a lot of pictures of him, his kind smile, mischievous glint in his eyes, and I guess that’s when I started catching feelings for him. That was the only Valentine’s Day I successfully managed to fall in love with someone.

 (Spoiler) When I started writing my fanfic, Aria wasn’t supposed to fall in love with anyone. I wanted her to be more independent and asexual in the fact that she doesn’t need a romantic subplot to get the story moving. When my feelings for Hermes started getting bigger, that’s when I realized that he and Aria would make a cute couple (It's not problematic! They don't officially get together/catch feelings for each other until Aria turns 22). She’s independent but wants to keep things in an ordered way and he’s supposed to maintain a certain order but is super chill about how he handles things. Their contrast with each other is so simple, but it works. He makes her happy the same way he makes me happy, so that’s why I started self-shipping Aria with Hermes.

And I know what pretty much ALL of you are thinking. “Why this version of him? He’s not even good-looking.” Well, he may not look as hot as Lore Olympus Hermes, Blood of Zeus Hermes, or any other iteration of Hermes that looks more attractive than this one. Well, here’s the thing: I don’t want a good-looking or hot version of Hermes to love. I want the one that makes me smile and my heart flutter like his cute winged sandals whenever I think about him or hear his name, I want the one that makes me blush every time I see him smile, I want the version I first saw of him. I want this charming goofball, and I wouldn’t trade him for any other iteration.

[marcianoliterati]

books reviews - june 2023,part I

I read a lot this month so on page 13 I decided to post in parts.

this includes:

A lesson in murder , by Verity Bright

A mistletoe moment , by Natasha West

A lesson in murder by Verity Bright

4 stars

(solid, entertaining, would read more)

is book 7 in the Lady Eleanor Swift mysteries. I haven’t read any of the previous ones but this one was free and sounded fun. These books generally don’t care if you read them in order anyway. I got this on stuff your kindle day, i was browsing around and it seemed interesting enough. 

Lady Eleanor is invited to her old school for a speech, and ends up staying to solve a murder, and to help as a boarding house mistress.it’s set in England in 1921. 

Lady Eleanour has recently inherited her family’s state after the death of her uncle, who was the one to ship her off to boarding school at the age of 9 after the death of her parents, and the school often felt like a stifling prison to her, but she survived and is not much a proper lady, despite the school’s best efforts. 

It is mentioned she has done some remarkable things on top of murder solving, like cycling by herself around the world. 

I’m not entirely sure what she means by “around the world” as europeans and other first-worlders tend to have rather skewed ways about things like that, but that is certainly an achievement, a woman cycling by herself in the 1920’s was quite a scandal.

It is labelled a ‘cozy mystery’ which seems to be a popular tag nowadays, though what exactly that means is vague. It encompasses a lot. It generally features little violence, with amateur detectives. 

Yes, like agatha christie, she is considered somewhat of a pioneer i understand.

Maybe it’s just the ones I’m drawn to, but a lot of them seem to include their characters living in small towns and getting around on bikes.

They can be a bit of a mixed bag, sometimes too wholesome, too interested in describing  the everyday world and it takes forever to even get to the murder part. Generally if nothing has happened at 25% i DNF unless i actually find the characters compelling, which is rarely the case.

Others are better and know to present the murder first, and then we see  a bit of the world until it is discovered.

This one presents the murder pretty much immediately, which i appreciated.

And it makes the victim known to the detective, something quite unusual, but it helps, giving her good justification to stay, to help, to decided to stay and help at the boarding house. Adding the personal angle helps here, which isn’t always the case.

It did remind me a bit of one of my favourite christies, a cat among the pigeons, which is technically a poirot story, but he doesn’t show up until about 75% , which is quite the risk but agatha christie knew what she was doing. 

It also takes place in a boarding school for posh english young ladies, and it has the girls trying to work it all out, it’s really well done.

I really enjoyed it, and if i find more books free or in Kindle Unlimited i’d certainly give them a chance.

I enjoyed the boarding school setting, thought it wasn’t too expanded on, but it was fun. Clashing of views,gossip,drama.

The main characters are Lady Eleanor, her butler who apparently accompanies everywhere, and  a cop they appear to have befriended. 

What I found most interesting, is that the MC, Lady Eleanor, is very much a walking portrait of ADHD. 

She has a lot of energy, is very curious, bad at staying still, chicken scrawl handwriting, disorganised, often engages in dangerous behaviour, had behavioural issues in school and so on.

And a decent number of the plucky girl detective genre have similar traits, such as being nosy, active, and incapable of staying put, though not as strong as here, it does make me wonder where does it come from?

Is there a particular example authors are copying? And from there more people copying these copies until it became an archetype?

Cause i do feel like i see this archetype often, though i dont know if there is particular example

Some of it makes sense, like the characters having money, so they dont have to work so they can spend their time investigating, and them being nosy and curious is necessary so they’ll want to find out more. And wandering around which serves to lead them to places and ovearhear things.

Kind of a chicken and egg situation.

It was a fairly entertaining and easy to read book, it flows well, it is decently paced, and does a decent job in the world building, especially about Lady Eleanor’s personal history, and her history with the school.

She is there to investigate a murder, but she also gets a chance to look into her own past, her family history, and her experiences at school, where she was very nervous to return.

The culprit is surprising, though i worry a bit about like,class issues i guess. And it has a heartwarming development as sort of epilogue. 

For fans of cozy mystery,boarding school stories, and apparently how adhd can solve mysteries, when we’re not too busy looking for the glasses sitting in our heads that is.

A mistletoe Moment by Natasha West

2 stars

(bit of a letdown, passable entertainment, a bit like fast food. Would not read again)

I’ve read several of her books, and I’m a big fan, they’re always entertaining, and idk, credible. A lot of romance feels performative, like this is a and this is b and now theyre in love, and i dont care cause it all seems so fake.

Which is why i like her stories, cause generally i do buy it, I can believe it, get involved,get invested.

This one however, felt a bit flat. It is a novella though, more of a one-shot, and it is fun, but it all feels a bit too quick, a bit underdeveloped. Entertaining, but also kind of shallow.

It takes place around christmas, starting at a party, where our main characters hit it off, but theyre separated and spend the rest of the novel, trying to find each other.

One of them was working the party while the other goes there for a work party. Neither is too happy, but it’s not a ‘you inspired me to change my life’ type of deal it is too quick for it. 

And it all feels a bit too contrived, the girl who just lost her phone and apparently doesnt have a cloud back up so the phone has nothing in it? Like i get oh i dont want a phone contract i dont wanna be tied down, but you can have a google backup on pay as you go as well?

Like, surely there were better solutions than running around the city? 

It all feels rather silly, and it kills my suspension of disbelief.

And this in story, i didn’t particularly like either of the MCs so i also have problems caring about what happens to them, i really only finished it cause it was very short.

[lake-archive]

Scene 40

AO3 Link

Fandom: Persona 5

Character (main): Anja / Luka (OC), Goro Akechi,

Scene 39 - Masterlist - Scene 41

“ Sorry Sweetie. Mom has decided to take another evening shift today. Could you please look after Ole? Keep his toilet clean and make sure that he eats properly. I already made dinner so just heat it up! Alright, bye bye~! ”

Exactly what Mom said more often than not, or something similar. It had them constantly worried. Their mother was working more than usual, only taking breaks to sleep. By now they had heard she had taken a second job. Money was tight in the end, very much so… And yet, even with that she had insisted on being fine. Though she clearly wasn’t. She could need all the help right about now. Working full time and then part time takes a toll on someone. Yet when they suggested getting a part time job Mom said: “ Sweetie, you have something to focus on. Just leave it to me. ” She had their best interests in mind but… Sitting idle was not the way to go either! They couldn't! So they had to think about it carefully…  Very carefully…

And that was what had let them sit down most of the time and browse through a bunch of job magazines each day. A job which would ease the burden of their mother yet also not make her notice what her child had been up to. Though there was only a time frame they could pick, in the afternoon. All to not draw too much suspicion. And yet there was only so much they could pick from. Come home too late and she gets worried sick after all. At least when it happened almost every night. This was a pain… But— 

“That Maid Café in Akihabara pays pretty well actually…” They mumbled, a little out loud however as they were hovering over the magazine. “It’d be a bit away but it’s tempting. And the times are favorable too… So maybe I—”

“Absolutely not!” Someone interrupted them all of a sudden before suddenly tugging onto the magazine and lifting it off their hands, right up. It made them grab it, or being about to grab it, trying to snatch it again. Yet they froze in place when seeing who it was and needless to say… The person didn’t look very pleased. 

“Akechi–Kun?” They said, surprised to even see him there. It has been a long while after all, at least when it comes to a face–to–face interaction.

“A job at a maid café… You gotta be kidding Anja.” He sighed before handing the magazine back to them. “Isn’t that a little—”

“What’s wrong with working at a maid café?” They asked, tilting their head. This reaction was not something they had expected, at all. “In the end it’s just a cosplay café.”

“Must I really explain that to you?” 

They only blinked when he said that. It had come out of nowhere, having them a little caught off guard. They couldn't explain why he was getting so worked up. And he hadn’t even been hiding it. Not really at least. Which was… Well… Until they decided to maybe joke around at least a little bit, a smirk escaping their lips for a moment. “What? Are you perhaps jealous that someone might look at me the wrong way inside a maid outfit~?” 

Of course they weren’t completely serious and expected him to be ticked off if anything. Because in their mind there was no way that they would get any other reaction. ‘ No, it isn’t that. ’ And then have him go on a tangent about how it could reflect on his own image if he was seen with someone who works part–time as a maid. In Akihabara nonetheless. Or he would just wave it off quickly. Either way, they did not expect him to react so strongly about it. And yet… 

“Th… Tha… I haven’t said that!” He suddenly responded, sounding rather… Defensive? As if they had just caught him or something. That was odd. And yet, this time, they didn’t want to point it out. Instead, let’s see how this goes. “It’s just… Maybe you should reconsider or… Something like that…” And they could see how he was trying to keep his own composure here, his expression not trying to shift into one he might regret making. And yet it looked so much in pain all the same… It was all too obvious.

“Really now? Are you sure?”

“I… I am! B… Besides… W… Well…” It was rare to see Akechi being so tongue tied. He couldn’t get his thoughts together it seemed, trying to deny something. And yet he couldn’t put it into clear words all the same from what they saw. He was really trying here which was odd on one hand… But right now they focused more on how funny his face was right now. He was cracking, wasn’t he?

“Then if you’re against it, how about you help me find a job~?” They suddenly suggested. “The Phantom Thief thing is a big deal, right? And I’m sure the team could need another hand~” Honestly, they were just kidding. But if he was actually against this then they may as well make that suggestion. 

And it had him stare right at them with wide eyes, as if in disbelief.  “Why are you asking for that?” He asked, as if suddenly having grown suspicious of them. And yet he added: “Actually, I cannot even get behind you trying to find a part time job all of a sudden.”

“Is it really that hard to figure out?” They countered. “I just want to help my Mom.”

“Your Mo–” Yet then he noticed, perhaps remembering. It was honestly a surprise though that he switched expressions so quickly, in a literal moment. “Right, it’s just the two of you. I… Forgot. My apologies.”

“Nah, it’s fine. I don’t like the reminder but… What can you do?” They said with a shrug. They hated the reminder but all the same it was what it was… All they could do was find whoever got their father killed anyways. And they had not forgotten that. In a way sticking around gave them the gut feeling that they will get their answer sooner or later, they just had to move forward. “Anyways, I’m not gonna sit there and do nothing at that point. Mom’s been working herself to the bone. I don’t want to just watch. And… Well… That café has a tempting offer so—”

“Well, as you said we could need another hand in the case.” Akechi suddenly interrupted them, making them stare at him in slight confusion. He wasn’t… No way! “Although, I might be against the idea of getting someone else directly involved, you have proven that you could have some value for the team.”

“Eh? H… Hold on, that—”

“And Nijima–San seemed interested in you theory too…”

“Huh? Nijima–San?” Who was that? Nijima… Nijima… Didn’t ring a bell for them. Not exactly at least.

“If you are actually serious about this I think something could be arranged.” He suddenly suggested, having her caught off guard completely.

“Wha— Wait, hold on! You don’t have to! I wasn’t actually going to—”

“No, you made a valid point.” Akechi said, smiling all of a sudden. Ugh, this again… “Do you happen to have some time right now? I am going to meet up with her today.”

He was seriously giving them this opportunity!? This didn’t feel real! There had to be a catch! There had to be! And yet, if they didn’t take that beginner’s luck, then who knows what they are missing out on! If they could be involved somehow… “I guess since you’re offering… Sure, why not?” And besides, if there really was something one could arrange that would maybe not be lying exactly to their mother during the day. She may find it weird however that they would hang out more with a ‘friend’ of theirs. “Though what makes you say that all of a sudden? Wasn’t I supposed to be kept out?”

“That—”

“Is it the maid café thing? You really want me to prevent from working there~?”

“No, that’s not it! Don’t flatter yourself!” He snapped, at least for a short moment. Oh Akechi looked rather annoyed now… How funny. But he seemed to keep himself together moments later and continued: “I happen to have done some reflecting. And since I will be working more on the case of the Phantom Thieves I think it is great to get any help we can get. Maybe even your observations could benefit if you had access to the necessary tools as well.”

So that is his thought process! Or… So he claimed at the very least. It sounded logical but… Something was a little off. There was more to it, wasn’t there? And yet, they couldn’t ask directly. “You think so? Then I’ll be in your care Ake–”

“However, I will let Nijima–San have the final say in this. She would be in the position to arrange something.” He interrupted them, sounding overly serious. “So please, don’t embarrass yourself.”

“I won’t, I won’t~”

“Why do I have my doubts?”

“C’mon, don’t be like that. I’ll behave.” 

Yeah, there was a chance… A chance they should take. Even if it was going to turn out to be a mistake… They had to try at least.

Scene 39 - Masterlist - Scene 41

[rosejacksongallery]

Tribute to Akira Toriyama: Writer’s Block Blog Cafe Chapter 1

Hello and welcome to my corner of the internet, I'm Lex and this my blog covering media topics ranging from animation, comics, games and more. today I wanted to write about a subject personal to me as an aspiring artist.

Two nights ago, I was scrolling on the internet when I heard the news of Akira Toriyama’s passing at the age of 68, which felt like a shock. He was an influential manga creator and character designer for a plethora of RPG games, but I was most familiar with his manga series, Dragon Ball Z. For anyone unfamiliar, that is actually the sequel series to the 1984 Dragon Ball, following the story of the titular Son Goku and adventures to find the ancient dragon balls, a magical item that can summon an ancient dragon granting users their wildest wishes. My bad summary alone is nowhere near enough to encapsulate what an incredible and influential action-packed story Dragon Ball and its more popular sequel truly are (how hard it is for me to express that through words). Although this is my very first blog and was originally saving a portion of this script for a post on my anime/manga experience, I'll never get an opportunity to actually write something this raw to me if I leave it to the corners of my mind. 

I want to share how I got into manga and how much Dragon Ball Z means to me. It was the 2nd manga that I ever read at the time, but also the 1st anime I actively tuned into and paid attention to the storyline. Before I continue, I want to get into how I even discovered both mediums, as they tie directly to my DBZ experience. It’s not easy pinpointing all of the exact moments where I discovered manga or anime. Luckily, I still recollect certain memories that still lingered to this day. Right across from my family’s favorite coffee shop, we had a section dedicated to Chapters where I usually stuck to the kids book sections. However, I would venture once in a while to the teen shelves to check out what literary work was offered. From an extremely early age, before I was even introduced to the concept of manga, I recall observing the comic covers with great fascination, wondering what kind of stories were contained there. Despite the curiosity, I would only briefly glance at them, but never actually bother to read them. The only exposure I had to the comic medium was at Chapters or at my local library, where I was slowly getting into read graphic novels such as Bone, Knights of the Lunch Tables, the Sonic Archie Comics, or library approved comics that involved mystery and even an imitation manga series that involved math(Manga Math Mysteries)? I even read stuff like Redwall of all things which was surprisingly gruesome itself, but maybe I’ll save that for another story.

It wasn’t until I was 8 or 9 where I actually read my first manga, Happy Happy Clover, in my library. It was a fairly simple kids' comic about a bunny rabbit and her animal friends getting into silly, cute, shenanigans. I thought it was the cutest thing ever and I read a majority of the volumes, despite my confusion with its reading system. Although I had not read the comics completely in order, this series had more loose, episodic stories compared to a majority of manga/anime now. Personally, it was as good of an introduction to manga as it could be, only to be blown away three years later by my first anime. 

One day, I recall coming across the Vortexx block on the CW network when browsing for cartoons to watch on TV. By that time, I'd long since stopped watching Treehouse and PBS and lost interest in some of Teletoons’ broadcasting aside from superhero shows. That channel was how I rediscovered Dragon Ball Z and proceeded to secretly watched almost every Saturday morning. Prior to watching, I discovered the first volume of the manga in grade 4. I didn’t think much of it other than how awesome it was. The art was detailed, but with some stylistic qualities that I’ve never seen before and it had tons of beautifully-illustrated action, which fit into my superhero phase at the time. I thought of how cool it would look animated, envisioning it with Disney level 24fps animation (oh, how my imagination ran too wild). When I actually watched the show however, it felt a bit anticlimactic with how it was animated. At the time, any cartoon that wasn't smooth enough or anything choppy looking like Rocky and Bullwinkle or Flintstones, it was an instant drop. DBZ still had animation, but it felt choppier than what I was used to, yet the art itself still looked exactly like from the comic and that kept me watching surprisingly. Admittedly, I eventually grew to appreciate shows with slower frame rates and marvel at their beauty on its own, cause it certainly isn't easy putting such detail into motion unless its a movie that had time and budget to pull it off.

Regardless of such petty nitpicking, I had never seen a show like this before and got me hooked. Although I had a small understanding of what it was about, I understood that it was a fantasy fighting show with some of the buffest, most badass looking dudes that I’ve ever seen, ready to fight for what's right. The rough drawings and rugged appearance of the male characters made Superman and Batman look clean and pretty in comparison. Even the girls and the kids in that series look like they could snap someone like a twig in a heartbeat. The villain looked absolutely terrifying, this tall, unworldly looking figure almost resembling an insect appeared to kill people without a second thought, immediately coming off as this threat that needed to be eliminated without hesitation. Unbenounced to me, I was actually watching the show out of order, starting with the cell saga. On top of that, I later discovered it was a sequel series, which confused me even more. A lot of context had been heavily missed since I had no idea what an overarching story was, but that hadn’t taken away the experience from me until I found out later on. Needless to say, I was ready for more . . . until the Vortexx block was unceremoniously canceled right in the middle of the last episode before the Buu saga! I could be wrong, but I recall it being cut to some news and I felt so cheated!

Dragon Ball Z in particular made such an impression to me that its amongst the main motivators that got me not only into illustration, but also fanworks (albeit a little embarrassing today since I was 11 or 12 when drawing/writing my fanfiction ideas). Dragon Ball Z to this day still reigns in my top 100 anime of all time, but since it has been years since I watched the whole thing in order, I'm looking forward to rewatching once again this spring(And hope to check out Dragon Ball too). It's that perfect blend of action and adventure that I always geared towards. It didn't matter that I wasn't anywhere near as buff as Goku or Gohan to name a few, cause everyone had their charm. Even characters like Chi-Chi or Vegeta I didn't outright hate, although some of their actions did frustrate me at times(But I'll never get the hatred Yamcha had by the fanbase!) As flawed as some characters could be, I admired the perseverance of characters like Goku, Piccolo, amongst many other memorable characters. My favorite ones are Gohan and Mirai Trunks, as they had a level of complexity to their character arcs that really resonated with me, especially moments where the odds are against them and all seems hopeless. Sure, we can’t necessarily time-travel in order to save the past and future, but even attempting to save what we have now is a message I think people my generation and younger need to hear once more. 

If anyone wants more context to Akira Toriyama's works and his impact, I will recommend a few Youtube videos underneath this review that better explains the appeal and influence of his works for the past 40+ years.

Akira Toriyama was a crucial influence to so many viewers, writers, and artists alike, and it brings me joy that people still appreciate his work to this day. It is both incredible yet heartbreaking to read many people’s comments on how much he and his work meant, especially those closest to him. One Piece is another manga I hold in very high regard, and reading Oda’s letter reacting to the situation had my heart feeling heavy. I can’t envision how someone can comprehend the magnitude of their cultural contribution, but I really hope he was proud of it, because it has been truly deserved. Toriyama’s work has helped shape me as the artist I want to become and hope to be someday, and I know that part will never die.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your creative vision, and may your soul rest well.

-Lex

[dicmondskies]

☆ & * .   ♡   i n t r o d u c t i o n  …    

ODEYA RUSH, SHE/HER / have you ever heard of CAN’T BE TAMED by miley cyrus, well, it describes LONDON SCHNEIDER to a tee! the twenty-four year old, and DRAG CAR RACER was spotted browsing through the stalls at portobello road market last sunday, do you know them? would you say SHE is more stubborn or more DARING instead? anyway, they remind me of fireworks going off at 12am on new years, a daredevil streak, long brown hair tied up in a pink scrunchie forming a neat high ponytail, taking risks, maybe you’ll bump into them soon!

this is my wild child london. and yes, her parents were corny enough to name her after the city she was born in and she absolutely hates it. kind of. on one hand she loves the name london, but she would prefer if she didn’t actually live in london on top of that. 

her father is a huge adrenaline junkie who has never had the same job for more than a few months at a time. her home life wasn’t extremely stable because of that, but it worked for their family and london never really complains about her childhood even though it was interesting to say the least.

her mother was someone who had struggled with a personality disorder her whole life and just wasn’t cut out to be a mom. when london was almost two, her mother left in the middle of the night and never returned. london was too young to remember her mom and eventually her new normal was just her and her dad. her aunties and uncles helped out a lot and she looks up to her nana as her mother figure. they are extremely close and her nana is one of the only people she softens up around immediately. she can be her true vulnerable self with her nana, and that’s extremely special to her.

her father was always goofing off and trying stunts and dares on camera that would almost always result in him getting injured somehow. hospital trips were not uncommon for him, and this only further ingrained london’s fearlessness into her personality.

she watched her father do all kinds of insane things and never did he back down to a challenge and that started her own passion for a thrill. she wanted to be just like her daddy. she was a daddy’s girl through and through, wanting to act and be just like him. 

it started with baseball, karate, and even cheerleading. london was an extremely active little girl and had so much energy that she was always wanting to do some kind of sport or extra curricular activity. 

it wasn’t until her dad started dabbling with street racing that she herself started to be interested in racing cars. 

her father was a free spirit and he didn’t really have much structure or rules in his household. he’d bring her along to his dangerous stunts and hobbies and didn’t really understand the impact it would have on his daughter. 

she couldn’t let go of the dreams she had of racing her first car. she talked about it day and night and when she was twelve, he finally bought her a dragster that she called the siren. it was a dream come true for her and the start of her drag racing career. 

london took racing extremely serious, nothing gave her the feeling like being behind the wheel of a car going 100+ miles per hour. and when she started winning, it was like a drug, she was hooked, and she was determined to be the best. 

now, london is considered one of the best drag racers in the country, she hasn’t stopped racing since she was 12 and she doesn’t plan on it anytime soon. she receives sponsorships and makes her money solely off of her racing career.

around town, london is known to always be down for a good time. she’s a thrill seeker and will do anything to feel the rush of adrenaline that her childhood circumnstances exposed her to in her early development. 

her and her dad are still extremely close and he’s slowed down a bit but is still the same fire cracker free spirit ( sometimes wreckless ) guy that he’s always been. he supports her racing career and is at every race, cheering her on and proud that he raised such a fearless and independant daughter.

[miraculouscontent]

After reading that, I think it's safe to say that Miraculous Ladybug is more of a horror/psychological thriller than romance/comedy. And now I want an AU where Marinette takes the earrings off and realizes that they're messing with head

Marinette felt strange, and after getting used to the feeling of being on the Startrain, she knew it wasn't the cause. She felt lighter - less restricted - somehow, and while a part of her had expected that due to handing off the ladybug miraculous, it wasn't in the way she'd expected.

Once she was done sending Alya all the Ladybug tips, Marinette had figured they'd start talking about Adrien or what their next scheme would be once she got back, but she ended up finding the idea tiring. It was odd in the way that finding something in her room just slightly out of place would be (at least before the kwami began living there).

Everything she'd thought she might feel - anxiety over what could go wrong while she was gone, concern over how the kwami were doing in her absence, and longing for who she'd pictured as the love of her life - wasn't there. It felt completely unlike her, just as it felt unlike Alya to not reply to her messages considering how much she liked to be on her phone.

Abandoning the idea of texting Alya for now, she closed their conversation and idly started browsing her phone. Even still, the weird feeling didn't cease and her hero senses were going off.

Something was wrong, or... maybe right? It wasn't as if she was feeling anything bad, but she felt entirely different than when she was in Paris. It was hard to get a gauge on exactly how she should take it.

Marinette glanced at her parents, catching herself frowning before they could glance back. She looked at her phone, acting like nothing was wrong and idly scrolling through her various apps so as to look busy. In the process, she stumbled upon her gallery, finding her mass of Adrien images inside. It took up a majority of her pictures, and she found herself blushing in embarrassment rather than fondness.

Did she really have this many normally? How much time had she taken getting them?

She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, thrown off by just how different she felt. The reaction to seeing Adrien that she'd normally have where she'd lose all focus had virtually disappeared, and the only reason she'd missed it at all was because it gave her an absurd amount of mental clarity concerning how she'd be acting otherwise.

Clarity...

The word brought a particular face to her mind: pink lips, blue eyes, and black hair highlighted blue at the tips. Marinette ran her fingers through her own hair, ruffling it as she tried to piece out how she was feeling. All she knew was that - whatever it was - it was significant and she didn't have Tikki to vent to.

Though perhaps she wouldn’t had much to provide anyway.

A mix of trepidation and curiosity filling her. Switching away from her gallery, she went back to her conversations and pulled up her texts with Luka. Despite her confusion over whatever was happening to her at the moment, she managed a smile at Luka's contact image staring fondly at her.

After a moment of consideration, she typed out:

Hey. Sorry if you're busy. Thought we could talk?

That done, she navigated back to her gallery to look at all her Adrien pictures. She shifted in her seat again, as if it would change things or help her mind adjust to the unfamiliar sensation. It wasn't like looking at Adrien didn't make her feel anything at all, but that feeling could only be described as "normal," like the way she saw him before he'd given her that umbrella.

Before she officially became a ladybug holder who agreed to protect the people of Paris...

Her lips twitched in hesitant thought, her thumb brushing against her screen as she skimmed through the assortment of Adrien pictures. Her brain registered a feeling - or rather, lack thereof - and the foreign emotions encouraged her to act.

She tapped the garbage can icon experimentally, a notification popping up accordingly and asking her if she'd like to delete the picture. She brought the phone closer to her chest, like she felt she was doing something wrong, yet there was only a second of pause before she confirmed the decision.

She watched as Adrien disappeared, a message indicating that the picture had been trashed.

Marinette blinked at the message until it had timed out, bringing her back to the gallery. She was frozen in place, her fingers twitching against the side of the phone as she processed what she'd just done.

Then, she did it again. She tapped on another picture of Adrien, a weird mix of eagerness and interest urging her thumb along as she pressed the garbage can icon again, confirming the decision just as quickly.

Just before the image disappeared, a stray thought said aloud in her mind: black hair and blue eyes would've worked better for an outfit like that.

This time, her body finally moved, a shudder going up her spine as she took in a breath. Her eyes darted over to her parents, knowing how strange this must look to them, but they weren't watching her anyway, meaning the moment was kept firmly in her own personal bubble. It was so odd; normally, someone would've seen her acting off, or laughed and made muttering comments about it.

But nothing was happening, and she didn't know whether to question it or not.

Marinette glanced back at her phone, almost challenging herself as she started to run through the assorted Adrien pictures. She could've thrown them in the metaphorical bin all at once, but instead, she went one-by-one. She waited for something to break, either a sense of regret to settle in over the deletion or for her heart to start fawning over the face on screen, but neither happened.

She was in control, and it felt good. Really, really good.

Part of her felt like she was being ridiculous. The idea of getting some kind of emotional high out of deleting a few pictures sounded stupid, and yet she felt powerful. It was like a veil had been lifted and suddenly she had choices.

If her parents saw her visibly vibrating in her seat, she didn't hear them make mention of it.

The only thing that made her snap out of her rapid thumb movements was a text notification at the top of her screen, and only due to the flash of black, blue, and white. Her lips curved into a smile, originally being pressed together in focus, and she clicked to open her text messages with Luka.

Hey, Marinette. I'm not busy at all. What's up?

She felt warm, knowing that the guy who always made her feel comfortable and happy was on the other line. it was such a shame that they hadn't been able to work it out because of Adrien.

Marinette paused just as she went to reply, those thoughts catching up to her as she remembered that day with Luka underneath the bridge. She'd been so sure that she'd had to break up with him because of Adrien, but as she purposefully tried to recall the memory, something registered like a mental fog clearing in her mind.

Hadn't it actually been her responsibilities as Ladybug that had done it? In fact, that added up alongside all of the other memories of his akumatization; she hadn't been ditching him during their dates out of discomfort or her crush on Adrien, but because of akuma and sentimonsters.

How could she have forgotten? Or rather, how could she have remembered otherwise?

Marinette just barely managed to snap herself out of her trance, her phone having dimmed from inactivity and the sight of her furrowed brows and worried frown staring back at her from the blackened screen. She blinked rapidly, then shook her head to clear herself of the unnerving thoughts.

Lighting her phone back up, she hurriedly typed back as she realized she'd left Luka on read, trying to ignore the way her thumbs shook.

Nothing much.

She hesitated, already seeing him typing back. Guilt burrowed around in her stomach, knowing very well that it was not "nothing" but being unable to properly convey what was going on to him when she didn't even understand it herself.

She typed again, his own typing ceasing to let her add to her comment.

Actually, I've been thinking a bit lately. I'm going to be in London for a while and I'm on the train ride there right now. It's given me some time to myself and it's... weird.

I'm sorry, I know that doesn't make sense.

Even though he hadn't replied, she knew he was taking her seriously as he was typing back.

It makes sense. Background music doesn't work for everyone.

Marinette realized that her shoulders had been tense when they relaxed at his message. She pressed her lips together, feeling vaguely like she didn't deserve him and pushing down the thoughts just as quickly. He'd never approve of that kind of talk.

My head's just been a bit of a mess. Or... not a mess? Things were really foggy but I didn't realize that they were? It's like I'm thinking clearer but I don't know if I like everything that came with that.

What was the phrase? Ignorance is bliss? She had no idea where these changes were coming from, but something had indeed changed and she didn't know the significance of it. She was indeed happy that she felt so in control now over her thoughts on Adrien, but why now? What caused it, and what about her memories?

Would it go away?

Marinette shuddered at the idea, but tried to focus on her conversation with Luka. Having a crisis wasn't going to do her any good, and he was there with her, even if only through text.

I can't know what you're going through, but I think I get it.

-

You do?

-

Yeah. Do you remember my birthday, when everyone heard about my dad being Jagged Stone?

He already continued typing, so she just nodded even if he couldn't see it. She'd only been with Juleka when the reveal had happened, but she imagined it'd been just as much of a shock for her as it'd been for them. She couldn't even imagine when Luka could've learned about it.

Wait--no, she'd already known, actually, hadn't she? He'd been akumatized and had gone after Jagged, and she'd been there when he forced Jagged to tell him the truth about being his father.

Marinette winced at the filling of a gap in her memory that she hadn't realized had been there. Once again, she'd remembered something that she couldn't fathom having forgotten or misremembered, even with how spotty her memory could be under normal circumstances.

She turned towards the back of her seat and the window, trying to isolate herself so it felt like just her, her phone, and Luka. She desperately needed his texts as a distraction.

I'd wanted to know who my dad was for so long, but learning that it was my favorite musician all this time was a lot. I had to redo all the notes I’ve ever written about him, and I wasn't sure how I felt about it for a while.

He kept typing after that, and she merely stroked the side of the phone with her thumb as some form of support, even knowing that he couldn't know about it.

But I'm glad I knew in the end. He's doing his best to make up for all the lost time, and I don't have to go on never knowing what that song would've sounded like.

Their situations weren't exactly the same, but it was enough to reach her deep down. Whatever her situation was, if it really did mean something, she'd rather know it was there than go on never knowing. She hated the idea of being left in the dark, just as she hated being lied to.

As she took a calming breath, she found it in herself to type back.

I'm glad you know too. You deserve people who make you happy, Luka.

-

Thank you, Marinette. You do too, and I hope that whatever you're going through goes at least as well as it did for me.

-

Thanks.

She bit her lower lip at her reply, which felt clipped in tone even though she hadn't meant it that way. She just had too much on her mind and it was hard to think about what emotion was coming across when she was typing to him.

She tapped away at the on-screen keyboard, hopefully before he could think anything in particular about it.

Sorry.

Though she wanted to explain further, she wavered, her legs bending as she curled further in on herself. The conversation had already been so deep and she didn't want to make it worse.

But just as she debated on dismissing her feelings and insisting that he not worry about her, the memories that had been cleared up from before came back to her, reminding her of a warm hug on top of a bridge.

"When you're ready, I'll be here, Marinette."

She inhaled shakily, but steadied herself immediately afterwards, letting the warmth of the words calm her. Luka was there for her and she trusted him.

She was ready.

...I'm scared, Luka. I thought I had my clarity, but I don't. Something's wrong.

Then, almost on cue, the train screeched to a halt, jostling her out of her seat as the lights went off. The simultaneous sound of phones ringing followed soon after.

—————

Marinette held her breath, crouched down in the restroom while she listened closely for the sound of her parents' footsteps. Her throat let out a whine, but she managed to keep it silent enough to where she was sure that no one on the other side of the door would hear it. She'd have to leave eventually or risk being cornered, courtesy of the power being off and the restroom's lock being electronic, but she felt safe enough to pull out her phone.

She also set it on vibrate just in case.

There was a reasonable concern at first that Luka's texts would indicate that he'd fallen victim to the akuma, but what she found when she checked their conversation reassured her.

Marinette!

Is everything okay?

Did the akuma's power reach you? Did they call you too?

Marinette?

The panic in simple letters on a screen made her feel noticed and loved. Keeping enough of her focus on potential footsteps approaching outside the door, she typed out a reply:

Sorry. I had to run from my parents.

I'm okay. What about you?

-

You're alright. I'm so glad.

I'm okay too. I hid somewhere and I doubt anyone can find me.

-

That's good. Be careful.

-

You too.

She took another breath, certain she'd be captured soon if the akuma wasn't taken care of. The train was limited and there weren't many places to go, so unless she could find a blunt object to smash her parents' phones, she was at a loss.

Regardless, Luka was there, her phone vibrating as he added onto his previous text:

I know this isn't the time, and I hate that the akuma cut into the song we were writing, but I'm here for you, Marinette. Whatever's going on, I'll help you figure it out as long as you want me with you.

Her heart fluttered pleasantly, a pink blush even tinting her cheeks. She welcomed it, unlike the fear that'd come with the changed memories. Feeling the way she did for Luka was too natural to be afraid in any way.

Thank you, so much. You're the only one I could trust with something like this.

She meant it. She'd trusted Alya with her identity in a moment of weakness, and even passed the ladybug earrings to her, yet that somehow paled in comparison to the emotions she was choosing to share. Luka would take her seriously, she was sure, even if she came up with the craziest theory in the world for why her feelings and memories were the way they were. He wouldn't doubt her, or laugh, or dismiss her as "Marinette being Marinette."

And as she sat there, completely without a miraculous or any way to get back to Paris without help, she reached up with her free hand and tugged at her earlobe, processing what she could with the information she had as one such theory started to form in her head. The fear from before never quite went away, but the idea of figuring things out with Luka brought her a sense of comfort.

Though perhaps, when she got back to Paris, she would take back her miraculous with a sense of hesitance that she hadn't had before, and there would be some testing that followed after the fact, because there were two things she refused to give up from her experience on the train.

Her sense of freedom and choice, and the feelings for Luka that she can't believe she ever questioned.

Or, if her working theory was correct, that her miraculous had her question.

[cafe-de-lune]

i've just read your writings and they're so pretty and amazing ❤✨ the aesthetics for them are immaculate 👌 if it isn't a problem, can i ask headcanons for chifuyu, inui, sanzu and wakasa with a s/o who's a translator??

꒰ ☕️ ꒱ؘ Order: Black coffee ࿐ ࿔*:･ﾟ

꒰ ☕️ ꒱ؘ Order details: gn!s/o who is a translator

꒰ ☕️ ꒱ؘ warnings: fluff (not that fluffy), violence (in sanzu and a bit of wakasa’s part), crack-fic-ish in Chifuyu’s part, idk if I’m missing anything else

ft. chifuyu matsuno, inui seishu, haruchiyo sanzu, wakasa imaushi

.˚🌙 ༘┊͙ chifuyu matsuno ;

You two probably met at his pet store. Let’s say you have a pet or you were running an errand for a family or friend and that was why you were at his pet shop. You were just browsing the aisle for whatever you need until you heard confusion up in the cashier section

Curious, you took a peek and it was a foreigner from (country/name) trying to communicate what they need using broken Japanese. And when you looked at the cashier’s expression,you could see he was rather confused. But luckily, it just so happen be the language you know

So you went up to the foreigner and just eloquently asked them what they needed. The foreigner beamed at you and said explained what they needed to you. That was when you turned to the (cute) cashier and explained in Japanese what they needed. You stayed there translating everything until the foreigner left happily

It was then you met the shop owner, Chifuyu matsuno

“Thank you for translating everything!” He would say. “Now how can I help you?”

(I know my dumbass explained a scenario earlier but for the sake of plot let’s just say you got a new pet and was looking for stuff for said new pet.)

So you told him about the new pet and you didn’t really know what to get considering there is a plethora of brands and stuff. Chifuyu would help you happily and this is where you become a regular at his shop

sO Chifuyu may have developed a small crush. He found himself looking forward to the days where you would stop by and buy supplies for your pet. And if it was a dog, you would make it a habit to stop by Chifuyu’s pet store while walking your pet

Kazutora would be so sick of Chifuyu being in love and not confessing that he becomes the wingman and this is how you two became a couple

Now, back to the translating stuff, Chifuyu would take great interest in the language you translate. It would be to the point where you would teach him basic words such as “I love you” or “I love you too” or swear words and other words (gUYS I LEARNT THIS FROM MY FILIPINO FRIENDS: PUTANGINA. It’s a swear word)

if you were feeling particularly mischievous, you would have said a swear word meant “I love you.” And Chifuyu would say this to you and you would laugh every time because it wasn’t actually ily. (Based on a true story of my Filipino friends tricking me by saying Putangina meant ily and one time I visited her home and just said putangina to her and her mom heard. Her mom laughed at me when she found out the story.)

and when Chifuyu found out it the real meaning of the swear word, he’s going to get all pointy and be like “how could you betray me like that” but it becomes an inside joke of you two. You two would say that swear word and it would mean ily to both of you

He just loves hearing you speak that language. And could listen to you all day even if you were arguing in that language

But he knows being a translator isn’t just sitting by a person and translating whatever they said live. It is also paper translating and he knows it can get pretty tiresome especially if it’s full of legal or business jargon that you need to search up or something

So after a long day of sitting by the desk, just translating paperwork, he comes with your pet in his arms and was just like “come cuddle. (Pet/name) is missing you.”

oK SO YOUR PET. I HC THAT YOU TALK TO YOUR OET IN THE LANGUAGE U TRANSLATE FOR AND SO IT WONT REALLY UNDERSTAND JAPANESE. so when Chifuyu tries to talk to it, the pet just doesn’t understand and Chifuyu was like “oh I forgot, u only understand (language).” And he would learn words such as “snack” and “food” and “walk” just to communicate to your pet

When he said that swear word (thinking it was ily) to your pet, your pet just does that comical side eye and scoffs and trots away. (If it was a husky then they would be so dramatic and howl back. Poor Chifuyu would be like “???” While you are just cackling in the background)

he would give you shoulder massages and just repeat every word he knows in that language for fun. It would make you giggle because his accent is just so bad but you love him anyways

Chifuyu will repeat the words while he is working/talking to the animals in his pet shop and Kazutora would be like “???”. Chifuyu is going to teach kazutora that the swear word is ily. It’s like pay it forward except with swear words

And one day, when you visit Chifuyu, you would hear Kazutora saying the swear word to a kitten with the softest expression and you would either burst out laughing or be like “???” and eye Chifuyu

Chifuyu would just shrug with a smirk. Kazutora didn’t figure out until months later

.˚🌙 ༘┊͙ inui seishu ;

He met you through a regular to his and Draken’s motorcycle shop. You one day came with your boyfriend and that was when you got introduced to him. You pleasantly got along well with Draken and especially inui

Secretly, Inui developed a small crush on you the more the two of you interacted (like how almost all of romantic relationships evolve) but he knows it’s one sided and you were taken so he just bottles his feelings

When he finds out you were a translator, he would go home and google the language and learn some easy and basic words. But he never had the courage to say it. It’s a stark contrast to his usual blunt nature

Long story short you broke up with said boyfriend and stopped coming by the motorcycle shop as you didn’t really have a reason to be there. That was until you changed companies and had a new route to your new company which just so happen to pass by their bike shop

And you would stop and have a chat with them due to courtesy and because you kinda missed inui. And because it was just polite to say hello to people you know and are friendly with

“I haven’t seen you in a while… Is something up?” Inui would ask

“Oh.. Well my boyfriend and I broke up and yeah…” you would reply. Inui would have new founded hope. He would be like, maybe it isn’t unrequited love after all

“I also changed companies so this is my new route! I guess we can see each other more often.” You would explain

How you two got together is Draken giving Inui a nudge. For example, when you are going home and passing by the bike shop, Draken would be like “it’s dangerous for you to walk this late at night. Inui! Why don’t you take her home? I can clean up the rest.” Like he is the MVP here

When you do start dating, he would say I love you in (language) a lot. And it would be during really soft moments. Like you two are just cuddling with him being the big spoon and you the little. And you two are just facing each other. He would gently stroke your cheeks and with a soft expression, he would say I love you in that language as well as in Japanese

He finds you really attractive when you are speaking in (language). And if you aren’t from Japan and is from another country, he would just love listening to you talking to your friends and family back at your home

when it came time to meet your parents, the months before, he would do his best to learn as much as he can. He wants their approval after all. He lost basically his whole family so he would be damned if he lost you

And he would really surprise you with how much he progressed. (It’s because he was studying when he had time at work too!!!)

whenever you are translating documents, even though he can’t physically help you translate, he will support you by bringing you refreshments and stuff

And when you are translating documents he would sometimes take a glance at them and if he sees a word he knows, he would point it out and say it out loud. (Kiss him as a reward! He will come to expect it! And sometimes, he would bluntly and shamelessly ask for a kiss after he successfully saw a word he knew lol)

All in all, 10/10 recommend. He tries really hard to learn the language because he loves you and wants to be closer to you. He will take care of you after a long day of work and once you start dating, he would always come pick you up if you had hours that span into the night

In the future, if you two have kids, he would practice with you reading children’s books in (language) because he wants to read those books to his child

.˚🌙 ༘┊͙ haruchiyo sanzu ;

Bonten’s going international with their illegal trading businesses or whatever they do. And this means a language barrier. So in order to combat that Mikey asked Sanzu to hire a translator. So sanzu is like “where tf do I find a trustable translator for (language)?”

Coming to your side, you were, unfortunately, working in some bar as a host/hostess because you needed the money to pay off your parent’s debt. This was just a night job. By day you were a translator for (language)

And one day sanzu came in to the bar to have a drink like he usually do and this was when the owner pushed you forward to him, bragging about you in hopes he takes interest and would hang out longer

“You see, s/o here has many talents! They can do (talents/hobbies) and they can also speak (language)! They would make a fine companion for your visit tonight!”

Sanzu felt as if everything was too good to be true. He needed a translator for (language) and the bar he was visiting just so happen to have a person who knows the language. This was when he ordered one of his subordinates to do a background check on you

After all, this light be a trap and you might be a spy or assassin trying to take his life or get some secrets

But as his subordinates were gathering information on you, he decides to subtly interrogate you himself. This was when he finds out that your main job was a translator and not some bar host/hostess.

“Why would you work here out of all places though?” His eyes would be carefully scanning your body language for any threats or lies. But all he saw was you uncomfortably squirming and fear. He found it rather cute though

“Well, I had to find a way to pay my parent’s debt. My job as a translator doesn’t pay for it all,” you reply

In his eyes, you didn’t have the tell tale signs of a spy or assassin. His impression of you was just some unfortunate innocent person dabbling in some darker side of the world. And he would have to admit, you were pretty in your own respect

“I can pay off that debt,” he said, “but you would have to work for me in return.” He just thought, if you happen to be a spy or assassin, he could just kill you off no problem

“You wouldn’t need to work in a sleazy bar like this. Our… group just happens to need a translator.”

For the sake of this you eventually accepted his offer and begun working as Bonten’s translator

Of course like any normal person you were scared. Who wouldn’t be? Being surrounded by some dangerous looking men who looked like they could kill you in a split second. It was needless to say you weren’t use to this

But during meetings, Sanzu would be with you. As a matter in fact, he was always with you and there isn’t really much of a moment where you are alone. In his words “I bought you.”

When you were first starting out, the other potential partners would be so confused. Like “he brought this meek looking person to this meeting?” And they would eye you. And sanzu of course saw this. He disliked this very much.

You see, Sanzu is quite a possessive man and he doesn’t like it when people stare at you like a piece of meat

“Tell them if they stare at you like that one more time, I’m going to blow their brains out,” Sanzu just says to you

When you translate that (with great hesitancy) the negotiation table just becomes silent and tense.

Later on, when you are more use to it, Sanzu would get more touchy. Im talking a hand on your waist, his hand on your upper thigh, his arms around your shoulder, etc. he makes it look like you two were dating

And eventually, you would get the gist of how business work here so it wasn’t uncommon for you to translate something that makes it less “gang war” instigation material. (It’s still threatening though… just toned down)

“Tell them if they don’t lower the shipping costs I’m going to fucking kill their leader and turn him into chum and feed them said chum. What the fuck do they takes us for????”

You would reply: “Either lower the prices or we would have to take… extreme measures.”

When you two eventually start dating, the security plan for you would be insane. I’m talking about during negotiations, you would have him (and sometimes other executives) by your side (of course sanzu has his hands all over you) and like two body guards standing behind you, and some body guards in hidden sight

He demands you to teach him swear words and eventually ily

If the negotiations gets violent, and if you get hurt, there would be hell to pay. No one messes with you

.˚🌙 ༘┊͙ wakasa imaushi ;

He’s not the type who cares what his s/o does

But you two probably met when you were hired as a translator for Brahman. (It’s like in Sanzu’s scenario but different)

Instead of being bought, they hired you. Of course, you had to sign an NDA saying whatever being discussed you cannot tell anyone. And this is when you met Wakasa. You were signing the contract to be Brahman’s temporary translator and the executives were there. Of course, they introduced themselves to you

Your first translating job was a zoom call. The other party was not in Japan and so could not meet up. It would be you and Senju in the frame while takeomi stood off to the side. Wakasa and Benkei would be sitting across from you and senju

And as you were translating, things got more and more heated because the potential partner wasn’t being the most ethical. It was to the point where it got so heated that you and the other person on the screen was just arguing (you would be mad because they would cut you off mid sentence and not let you talk. That cumulated with their unethical ways pissed you off and you just snapped)

Wakasa, here would just stare at you with eyes slightly wide. He was used to you being curt and professional. But he understands. He could feel your frustration every time you got cut off and he could see the happiness building up in your face the more you translated

But it was still shocking (and hot) to see you go off in your (language).

Eventually, Senju had enough and just pressed the red end call button with a huff. But she wasn’t really angry. She was more amazed at you. But anyways this isn’t about her

Senju would tell you to rest and go cool off since you still had that “argument adrenaline” (I think that’s a thing) running through your veins. You agreed and just went out of the meeting room to take a breather outside

Minutes later you heard the door opening and as you were about to look back, you felt a cold sensation on your cheeks. You of course flinched away from the sudden closeness and looked at the perpetrator of coldness

It was wakasa. He was just looking at you with those usual lazy eyes. Except, the difference this time is that there was a small smile adorning his facial features. (This took you off guard cuz like you never seen him other than his usual expression which isn’t smiling???)

“You got pretty heated there didn’t you?” He would say as you take the cold drink from him, muttering a thanks as you were processing his rather cute face

“He kept on cutting me off and said some nasty things. My patience would run low eventually and he just so happen to test my limits,” you scoff, remembering the annoyance you felt

From that day on you two interacted more. Wakasa somehow made it a habit to surprise you with a drink after a translating session was done.

Once you two start dating, he has less tolerance to people who showed any signs of disrespect to you. Instead of sitting across from you, he would be sitting beside you and have his arms on your shoulder as you translate. And when he sees you getting particularly aggravated, he just sits closer until he is in frame and stares at the other person

It’s intimidating guys. Like it can be felt through the screen and such. If it was an in person meeting, they might hear the crunch of him biting his lollipop followed by his glare. There is no translator needed for the other party to get the message

He doesn’t ask you how to say some things in (language). Instead he goes out of his way and learns him through other means. And one day, he just blurts it out to you, catching you off guard. He would smile at your expression and take this chance to steal a kiss from your lips

. . . . . ꒰ ♡ ꒱ ,, stop auto correcting seishu to sriracha how does that even happen ⌲˘͈ᵕ˘͈

[silversatoru]

Ok ok- don’t judge me but get this- College AU, Where Ereh and his friends all go to a nearby maid cafe and turns out his s/o works there, and his s/o is wearing a EXTREMELY short maid outfit and she starts to flirt with Eren’s friends, and basically Eren had enough and dragged his s/o to a bathroom stall, and fucked them calling y/n their little slut, etc. and fucked them so hard they couldn’t work the rest of the day- BYE- 🏃🏻‍♀️ 💨 🚪

maid cafe

a/n: i would never judge you for this???? your mind is incredible and this idea has corrupted my brain for days,, please send more of your wonderful ideas to my inbox. and please let me know what u think bc i truly hope i did u proud

eren yeager x female maid cafe!reader

synopsis: eren and his friends go to a maid cafe and his new girlfriend is their waitress — so he drags her to the bathroom and makes sure she knows who she belongs to

tags/warnings: smut, dom/sub, degrading, mild humiliation, mirror sex, public sex, mentions of drug use

word count: 3.4k

“hey, we should check out that maid cafe downtown. i heard the waitresses are fine,” jean smirked as he proposed the idea, passing a blunt he’d just finished rolling over to eren.

eren graciously accepted the weed, but clicked his tongue and rolled his eyes at jean’s new idea for their friday night. a maid cafe wasn’t particularly up his alley -- he’d just started dating you a few weeks ago and didn’t have any interest in drooling over other women all night. but he was bored and if everyone else wanted to go, he supposed he’d tag along too.

“hell yeah, pretty girls in short skirts sounds good to me,” connie jived, a giddy smile on his face as he blew out some smoke from his own blunt.

“don’t you think that kind of place is a little disrespectful, guys? we shouldn’t view women as-”

“you’re too uptight armin, maybe we can find a nice girl to suck you off and loosen you up a little bit” jean laughed and cut him off as the blonde boy continued to give his immature friends a disapproving look.

“whatever i’m in, just let me finish this first,” eren held up his blunt and took another long drag, “i wont be able to stand you assholes all night if im not high”.

the four of them hung around their shared four-bedroom college apartment a little longer, finishing up their smoke sesh and flinging half-assed insults at one another. the sky was already getting dusky by the time they actually left and were walking through the small, bustling town surrounding their campus. the cafe wasn’t too far, maybe a thirty minute walk, but it was a beautiful spring night and shit, gas is expensive.

armin’s face was horribly flushed when they finally arrived and entered the front door, the poor boy completely unable to even make eye contact with the hostess standing in front of them. his shyness earned him a swift elbow from eren — his way of telling the blonde boy to relax a little bit.

the young hostess spoke to them in a sing-song tone, her hair perfectly curled to frame her face and her cheeks pink with blush. connie and jean completely ate up everything she was doing, gawking at her like a bunch of losers who hadn’t gotten laid in way too long — which is exactly what they were. eren was almost relieved when she finally sat them at a table and walked away, because he couldn’t stand to listen to jeans' horrendous attempt at flirting any longer.

everything on the menu had cute names that matched the theme of the cafe, and while eren and armin browsed the options, connie and jean continued to whisper about the different waitresses and which one they hoped they got.

as for you, it had been a pretty uneventful night, normal customers and nothing too crazy — that was until you walked up to the newest table you were assigned and saw your boyfriend and his friends sitting around the booth. eren and you hadn’t been dating all that long, a few weeks at most, and you hadn’t even met any of these friends yet. anxiety began to pool in your chest, but you tried your best to put on your best voice and greet them like they were any other table — after all, eren was staring so intently at the menu that he hadn't even noticed you yet.

“welcome home, masters! can i get any drinks for you?” you push your voice up to a high octave and make sure to draw out the word masters — it was the opening line that every waitress was required to use by the cafe.

two of the four boys are ogling at you so intensely that they might as well have drool hanging off their desperate lips. a third boy is keeping his eyes fixated on the table as if he doesn’t want to look at you — which is something you’re not quite used to. and eren is staring at you with his mouth gaping open, which he quickly shuts before any of his friends can notice.

he decided to sit back and watch, an amused look on his face as you continue to flaunt your extra-girly facade. he decides that now isn’t a great time for introductions to his bonehead friends — plus he knows you’re nothing like this in real life, so it’s entertaining to watch you act so out of character.

not to mention you look hot as fuck in your skimpy maid outfit — the tight corset-like top hugged your breasts perfectly and your skirt was so short he could practically see the base of your ass cheeks. he could definitely get used to seeing you like this.

but his amusement quickly started to fade as connie and jean shamelessly showered you in compliments and flirted with you like their lives depended on it. and what makes it worse is you’re playing along — he gets that it’s your job but still, can’t you just tell them to shut the fuck up?

he shoots the two idiots across from him a dirty look as soon as you walk away, “hey dumbasses, cut the girl a break”.

“hey man, i didn't hear you call dibs or anything,” connie raised an eyebrow at him.

“yeah dude, we’re just fucking around, chill,” jean added, a light laugh hanging off his last word.

eren couldn’t do anything but roll his eyes in response. he didn’t want to outright expose your relationship yet but he wouldn’t be able sit here and watch this all night either.

his blood was practically boiling when you returned with a tray full of their drinks. connie and jean turned their charms right back on for you, and fuck, if he had to hear you call them “master” one more time he was gonna lose his mind.

“armin get the fuck out of the booth,” he glared at the blonde boy, practically pushing him out of the booth so he could get to you.

armin yet out a small yelp, clambering out of his seat and letting eren climb out after him. the dark haired boy gave you the sweetest smile, but his eyes were lit up like flames.

“hey, mind showing me where the bathrooms are?”

you find yourself frozen in place for just a second, but quickly recover and give him a quick “of course master, follow me!”

the two of you walk to the bathroom in silence, but you can practically feel the heat radiating off of eren.

when you reached the restrooms you opened the door for him and bowed your head, but he grabbed your wrist and yanked you inside behind him, earning a small yelp from you. you noticed him snap the lock down behind him, and before you could even question his motives you were backed into a wall with his lips working roughly against yours.

“so this is what you do all day? walk around with your ass hanging out while calling people master?” he growled in your ear while moving down towards your neck and placing violent kisses along the sensitive skin.

“i- ah- if it bothers you-“ you breath out between gasps, your hands pressed defensively to his chest, “god, you reek of pot, eren”.

“no, it doesn't bother me, i love watching you flirt with other men. but let me remind you who you actually belong to now,” he murmured, voice dripping with sarcasm as he nibbled up to your ear and his hands fondled with the zipper at the back of your uniform.

“eren!” a strangled yelp leapt from your throat as he unzipped you and let your costume fall around your ankles.

for a second you thought about trying to stop him, but his hot lips against your cool skin was starting to win you over. your neck was undoubtedly covered in bruised love marks now, your skin aching in the most beautiful way.

“take it all off,” he mumbled into your ear as he snapped the strap of your bra against your skin.

“we’re in a bathroom eren, i don’t-“ you tried to reason with him, but any inkling of a rational thought was long gone from his mind.

“what’s with all the protests? you had no problem following orders when my friends were the ones giving them,” he cocked an eyebrow at you and lifted his loose shirt over his head in one swift motion.

you could have retorted or made a jab back at him, but your attention was caught up in the perfect lines of eren’s physique. between the sculpted curves of each of his muscles, his dark hair tied in a loose knot at the base of his neck, and the evil smirk across his lips, you were rendered indefensible. everything about eren was so intoxicating, and the idea of letting him have his way with you right now, in this bathroom, was starting to sound less and less like a bad idea. you weren’t sure how long you’d been staring and admiring when his lusty voice filled your ears again.

“did you forget how to use that pretty mouth of yours? i’m sure i can give you a little refresher,” he faked a frown and pointed to the floor with his index finger.

without a shred of reluctance you sunk to his feet. he had you in a state of utter compliance now, and all he had to do was mutter a few arrogant words and take off his shirt — you were almost ashamed, almost.

after a few smooth movements of his fingers against the drawstrings of his sweats, the tip of his member was hanging mere centimeters from your face. you glanced up at him with giant eyes as he stared down at you with his clouded ones. between his raging hunger for your body and the high that was still clouding his mind, there wasn't a single coherent thought in eren’s head other than the way your lips would feel wrapped around his cock.

“open up, princess. if you wanna act like a slut, i’ll treat you like one,” he grabbed the back of your head and forced it forward.

your lips parted without even thinking, and he thrusted his full length down your throat without any warning. you were left coughing and sputtering, the walls of your throat constricting against his cock and sending a few curses from his lips.

he slowed down slightly after that, but kept a steady pace as he mouth-fucked you until tears were leaking down your cheeks. you were gagging and coughing and your face was stained with salty saline but you loved every second of it. his head rolled back as raspy grunts fell from between his teeth, his fist tightening at your scalp.

after he thought you’d finally had enough he pulled back and released your hair from his steel grip. his cock was aching now, coated in a thick layer of your sticky saliva and yearning for more.

“get on the counter,” he ordered, and you scrambled to your feet in a way that was embarrassingly desperate.

you boosted yourself up onto the cool countertop, positioned perfectly between two sinks and leaning back against the mirror. eren placed a firm grip on each of your legs, shoving them open and snickering at the slick patch of fabric between your thighs.

“you like being treated like a whore, don’t you?” he clicked his tongue off the roof of his mouth and reached down at your panties before yanking them off in one fell swoop.

he squatted down so his face was level with your cunt, sticking out his tongue and dragging it up to your clit with antagonizing slowness. he moved the warm muscle up and down, sliding it between your folds and in circles around your clit — but his tongue was just barely making contact. and every time you bucked your hips towards him, begging and yearning for just a little more he’d pull his head back and click his tongue at you.

you were aching, leaking, and so incredibly needy for him and he knew it. he’d transformed you into the crumpled mess laying before him in a matter of minutes, and he was very proud of it.

“i’d start begging if i were you, or i’ll leave you here like this — a stupid broken slut with no one to fuck her,” he stood up and cocked his head to the side before beginning to tease your entrance with a single finger.

“ah- eren, please! i’ll do whatever you want,” you whimpered at him, a pitiful look on your face.

“eren? you know you’re not supposed to call customers by their name here,” he shook his head, “you’ll have to do better than that”.

“please- master, use me however you want. just please fuck me already”.

that seemed to suffice for eren, because after that it didn’t take long for him to shealth himself inside you and have your sweaty back slamming into the glass mirror behind you. strangled moans and pitiful whimpers slipped from between your lips, your eyes rolling back into your head in complete bliss. he’d teased and tormented you for so long that the sudden intense stimulation was almost too much.

he fucked himself into you so hard you thought you might break — your legs ached and your back hurt from awkwardly leaning into the mirror. but those feelings were quickly pushed to the back of your head because the overwhelming pleasure was so forceful that you could barely focus on anything else. eren’s length was grinding deep into your aching caverns so good that it was completely clouding your brain.

you let out a stifled gasp when he abruptly pulled out, leaving you feeling empty and aching for more.

“why-,” your voice was so destitute and so, so desperate.

“shut up and stand in front of me,” he commanded, pulling you off the counter and twisting you so you were facing the bathroom mirror.

“look at yourself in the mirror and watch me fuck you,” he practically snarled, placing a palm on your back and pushing your chest down against the counter, “look at how much of a slut you are for me”.

the only response that came out of your mouth was a tiny whine of acceptance — it was pathetic.

a breathy moan fell from your lips as he slid back in, and your cheeks blushed a dark shade of red as you watched yourself get fucked from behind. it was embarrassing, humiliating even, having to see yourself like this, but what made it even worse was that you fucking liked it.

“look at yourself,” he nodded towards the mirror, picking up his pace and tightening his grip on your hips, “just a dumb whore who’s good for nothing but taking orders from other people”.

“only- you!” you let out a strangled yelp.

“what was that? i don’t think i heard you,” he thrusted hard, reaching deeper than he had the entire time and then leaning over your back so his head was positioned right next to yours.

“say it again,” he murmured, burning holes through your eyes with how intensely he was staring at you in the mirror.

“i’m a dumb whore, but only for- you,” you repeated, squirming and whining at the painful pleasure he was forcing into you.

“that’s right,” he flashed you a satisfied grin, standing back up and resuming his original pace.

the sudden shift had you clawing at the smooth countertops — desperately wishing you had a pillow or sheet to grasp onto for some kind of support. you flinched when you felt a couple of his cool fingertips find your clit, immediately rubbing hasty circles around the sensitive bundle of nerves.

“i want you to come for me,” he locked eyes with you in the mirror again, “and i want you to think about how i’m the only one who will ever make you feel this good the entire time”.

his words were harsh but they sounded like honey when they flowed through your pathetically devoted ears. between his consistent thrusts and the pads of his fingers working their magic, you were a pitiful mess of whimpers and moans in a matter of minutes. your body twitching and legs shaking as you mumbled his name over and over — it was the only word your brain could comprehend right now.

seeing you like that nearly pushed eren over the edge himself, but he forced himself to last a little longer, wanting to milk your orgasm for everything that it was. he was genuine when he said no one else would ever make you feel the way he could — your head was spinning and your body was on a high that felt like it would never end.

only once your body finally fell limp and tired, signifying that your climax had ended, did he pull out and spray his seed all over your exposed back. you were a sticky, sweaty mess and your legs didn’t have the strength to stand even after eren was done coming down from his own high.

your face was buried in your arms when you felt a wet paper towel cleaning up the mess of semen off your back. eren tossed the towel into the garbage and wrapped his arms under your torso so he could help your pitiful self stand up. you let out a few pained whimpers, stumbling into his arms and wrapping your hands around his neck.

“that bad, huh? how are you gonna go back out there and work for all your masters? i’m sure they’re waiting,” he smirked at you, and there was no sympathy in his voice.

“i- i don’t think i can,” you whined, clinging to him as your legs continued to shake underneath you.

eren shook his head and clicked his tongue, helping you over to your clothes and assisting you with getting back into your uniform. even after getting dressed your legs refused to work — you were a shaky, stumbling mess. you sat in a pitiful heap against the tiled wall while you watched eren get his own clothes back on.

“i think you might need a new job,” he snickered, squatting down and lifting you onto his back once he was dressed.

you graciously climbed onto his back, arms wrapping around his neck and burying your face into his neck, “yeah, yeah i’ll get a new job”.

“good idea, because everyone’s about to see how pathetic you are as we walk through the cafe,” he wrapped his arms back under your backside to support your weight.

“there’s a back exit right down the hall, please take that one,” you begged, “please”.

“well. since you asked so nicely and did so well i guess you deserve that,” he complied, exiting the bathroom and following your directions to the back door.

but because you have the worst luck in the world, one of the cafe managers came walking right around the corner just as the two of you were about to leave. you buried your head deeper into eren’s neck, unbearable amounts of embarrassment and shame flooding your veins.

“hey man, she quits, sorry!” eren yelled and handled it for you, dashing out the back door before the manager could even comprehend what he’d just seen.

“thank you,” you mumbled into his shirt, and you were truly thankful that you didn’t have to speak for yourself in there.

“no problem, princess,” he adjusted one of his hands so he could squeeze your ass, making you jump against his back, “let’s head back to my house for round two, yeah?”

“r-round two?” you stuttered.

you could barely handle round one, and he was ready to go again? how!?

“i’m joking, relax. let’s go watch a movie or something,” he chuckled, hoisting you higher on his back and beginning your long walk back to his apartment.

you sighed and sunk into his back, that sounded nice. there was a huge difference in how eren acted earlier and how he was acting now, but you were a sucker for both personalities. you expected college to consist of classes and work and maybe a few new friends but meeting eren yeager was sure to make it a lot more interesting.

[clanwarrior-tumbly]

I'm sorry but i'm addicted to our boy Spamton- I have a little unique request here. So this takes place where Spamton just moves in the Queen's mansion, he meets the reader and immediately falls for their kind words and gestures. Weeks pass, and he goes to see them, but catches them talking and hanging out with Swatch.. He gets really jealous to the point of changing his style to match Swatch's

"Oh [y/n]! Have You Met Our Newest Guest?"

"Uh, I don't believe-"

"He's An Interesting Addison Who Made A Big Name For Himself! Ohohoho!" Queen laughed joyously, pausing to sip her glass of battery acid. "I Wonder How He Got So Rich...No Matter. As My Peon, I Order You Greet Him......Whenever It's Convenient For You."

"Sure thing. I'll go now." With a respectful nod, you set off to the mansion's guest chambers to meet this newcomer. You've lived here for a long time--and somewhat reluctantly since Queen decided to make you one of her peons one day. But life was actually pretty good.

It wasn't like you had anything better to do, so if she needed someone to help her with plans that..didn't seem all-that urgent, you'll offer your assistance. She let you stay in the mansion for free and never made you do anything if you weren't feeling up to it.

For a tyrannical ruler she was rather kind.

Yet you didn't wanna take advantage of her hospitality, so you'd just listen to whatever she says. And if she wants you to meet this celebrity as part of her endless lists of requests, then you'll happily oblige. But you were eager too since you've seen his face on TV a lot. It felt like an honor.

After wandering the corridors of deactivated puzzles, Mona Lisa-esque portraits, and meticulously-placed pottery, you finally arrived at the guest rooms. You hummed a small tune as you passed by each one, stopping when you noticed one door was open.

Peeking inside, you saw the Addison still setting up things. A phone was tucked between his shoulder and ear as he moved a box whilst rambling to whoever was on the other end of the line.

"Yea! I promise I won't let you down, okay? Soon I'll be bigger than ever before! I know I'm already a big shot but....haha, yeah, I shouldn't get carried away. Okay. Right..we'll discuss more of this tomorrow. Thanks!"

After hanging up the phone and returning it to the receiver, he finally noticed you and smiled. "Hey, hey! Haven't seen your face around here yet. But surely you know mine, right?"

"Yeah." You smiled, not wanting to shy away from talking with him. "Spamton, right?"

"Everybody's favorite number-one rated salesman!!" He laughed. "It's good you know me..'cuz soon ALL of Cyber World will know my name! It's a pleasure to meet you...?"

"[Y/n]. I'm one of Queen's peons." You shook his hand politely. The energy that radiated from him was so bright. Just as much as his pearly smile was.

Stepping inside, you glanced around at the luxurious furniture. He definitely got the higher-class rooms, with the addition of a large window that showed the neon green meridians that stretched across the night sky. It was certainly a beautiful view to fall asleep to. "Need help unpacking?"

"Oh--sure!!" At first Spamton seemed surprised by your offer, but he nodded. "If you want, be my guest. And while we unpack, I gotta ask you..how's it being Queen's peon?"

............

Weeks passed, and you've gotten to know Spamton more and more. You realized he was actually a sweet down-to-earth guy all around. Although he was on the phone a lot, he'd make time to hang out with you, so you two became fast friends.

He was truly living the best life. Posters of his car advertisements were littered all over the city, and the Swatchlings attended to his every need. Though one thing was hard to admit, even when it seemed like he had it all:

You were his only friend now that everyone else is intimidated by his status--as they would shy away from conversing with him--and the Addisons, well, abandoned him out of jealousy.

Obviously that made him worry about driving you away, especially when he's on the phone nonstop. But...the fact you've been so kind to him in every word and gesture, treating him like a regular person and not some untouchable celebrity, was quite endearing. Most admired him for his products, not his personality.

Your kindness made him fall for you hard and fast, ever since day one. He wasn't sure if this was a good idea; to let it get in the way of his business.

But what the hell? He was a big shot! He can afford to go a bit bigger and take more risks. Living in this mansion with someone who loved him would be the perfect dream.

There was a much bigger dream that his valued caller insisted he focused on, but that can come later.

So this morning, Spamton set out to find you to address these feelings once and for all. Yet he was rather nervous. Addisons were most confident in selling products, not so much...everything else. But he didn't wanna back down. He kept smiling no matter what.

As he checked inside the color café that he usually frequented, he saw you eating at the table. He noticed you weren't alone but with Swatch, talking and...

Laughing with them?

And just like that, his smile faded much like his hope.

Of course, the head butler had their ways to swoon people. He tried not to think of it as anything more than just their personality. It's just their way to entice returning customers.

That's all...right?

Spamton ducked behind one of the displays, listening in on your conversation to determine if he should proceed or not.

"By the way, we've known each other for a while and..I've always wanted to ask you something.."

"Yes? What is your inquiry?"

He held his breath. This is exactly what he feared. Knowing that you've been here longer, it's obvious you'd be closer to that damn bird-

"Your outfit."

Then he exhaled shakily, relieved. 'What are you getting so worked up for, idiot?' He thought in the back of his mind, but he continued eavesdropping.

"Did the Queen make it or give it to you? It's very stylish and really makes you stand out from the other Swatchlings."

"Ah, in fact I decided this look for myself." Swatch chuckled softly, raising a wing to adjust their glasses. "The tailor did marvelous work with my vision: black suit, tinted glasses. Very fashionable, is it not?"

"It is. I like it a lot."

"Why thank you. I see why our Lady Grace admires you. Just for that compliment, I'll give you a discount on any of our products in the gift shop."

"Should be every day if you ask me." You joked, earning another chuckle from them.

Seeing all of this and the way you two spoke like close friends was a jab in Spamton's heart-shaped object. 'So [y/n] likes people who stand out? Well I can stand out, too..' He thought bitterly as he stormed out of the shop without either of you knowing he was there.

Why should he settle with being a blank-slate Addison like the rest of them? He didn't consider himself one anymore.

Today, he told his valued caller, he was gonna be a whole new person.

It would help him get closer to both of his dreams, but there was only one on his mind now.

............

Later that night as you were getting ready for bed, you heard a knock at the door. You huffed in annoyance, assuming Queen needed you for something.

She had a knack for disturbing you at ungodly hours. But knowing better than to ignore her, you went to answer the door anyways-

To some strange black-haired guy in a black suit and white turtleneck sweater.

"Hi, um...can I help you?"

"[Y/n]? It's me."

"....wait....Spamton?"

"Yeah!" The salesman laughed, throwing his arms out and making a pose. "Whatdya think of me now?"

Perplexed, you looked him up and down. He ditched the lime-green pants, instead wearing white trousers. And his hair was slicked back. But what was most peculiar about him were his glasses, tinted with pink and yellow lenses.

Had you not known any better, you would've thought Swatch suddenly shrunk and became robotized.

"Cool but..you kinda look like Swatch a little bit. Was that on purpose?" You mused.

"...haha....yeah uh..funny story. Um.." He dropped the act, losing his trademark grin as he wondered how to explain himself and this sudden transformation. You could tell he wanted to talk inside the room, so you let him in and shut the door.

"I don't recall Queen mentioning any costume contest-"

"It's not a costume." He muttered, uncomfortably rubbing his hands together as he looked at you with sadness. "This is who I am now. The new me."

"..huh? You serious?" When he nodded, you frowned slightly. "I'm confused. You don't look like an Addison anymore-"

"That's the point...! I...I don't wanna be associated with them anymore. I decided to stand out, y'know? If you're gonna be a big shot, ya gotta stand out from the crowd!" He forced a laugh that sounded rather glitchy.

You didn't buy it. It wasn't like him to do this out of the blue.

"Spamton, why imitate Swatch of all people? And why out of the blue like this? I mean..I don't mind if you like their style. But I didn't even recognize you until you spoke."

Try as he might, he couldn't make any better excuses. So seeing that he was cornered made him finally admit his jealousy, overhearing your conversation with Swatch while he was browsing--when he really wasn't, but he didn't wanna come off as creepy.

His voice glitched further due to stress, accidentally blurting out some kind of...flirtatious term as he explained how much you meant to him since day one.

You weren't sure if he meant to say "hot single" on purpose. Though you were flattered that such a famous guy like him...actually had a crush on you, an ordinary Darkner who just fetched the Queen's stick wherever she threw it.

You found it hard to believe he thought of you that way..so you kept your own feelings buried. So to see that it's mutual was a relief, and it made you smile.

Spamton, on the other hand, was stressing the hell out. So much so he didn't even see your smile. He just saw himself being stupid the more he rambled on.

It was such a stupid, stupid reason to get insecure--to the point of changing his entire appearance without warning. All because you were friends with a butler who was doing their job???

How selfish can he get when he already had everything he wanted and more?

When he did acknowledge your small smile, he thought you were holding yourself back from laughing. But you had every right to laugh and call him a joke for thinking this will get your attention.

As he finished talking, he could see your smile fade and huffed. He waited for you to tell him how stupid he looks and to go back to being the plain old Addison you met.

Instead of ridiculing him you...hugged him?

At this point you were sitting on the bed together. Of course yours wasn't as massive as his was, but it was big enough for you two to share.

"Spammy, I'm flattered you like me in that way but...you didn't have to do all of this to get my attention. I promise there's nothing going on between Swatch and I. We're just friends. They're not replacing you or anything."

"I know, it's just.." Taking off the glasses, he set them aside before hugging you tightly, head buried in your chest. "I don't wanna lose the only person in this damn place who makes me feel like myself. Who loves me for me, not my success. And...I-I felt like I had to change something about myself to make sure of that."

"Well..you don't need to change anymore. I love you no matter what you look like."

He blinked, his face turning as red as his cheeks.

You could sense his embarrassment from the way he tensed up in your arms and chuckled, patting his hair softly. "Just..don't feel pressured to change for me..or anybody for that matter, okay? Or at least let me know if you're gonna change things up again."

"You don't think..I look stupid or creepy like this?"

"No. Honestly you look pretty handsome. Black hair suits you well."

Hearing those words made him breathe a small sigh of relief. He nodded and hugged you tighter.

His new looks were staying for good.

[daydreaming-away-reality]

Catching Stardust

Tadashi Hamada x Reader | ☁️ + ✨ | 3.9k

Most days, like any other university student, you would wake up tired. Unfortunately for you, that was not today. You had spent the entire night working on your lab report for one of your science courses and didn’t get a wink of sleep. At least it was handed in and done with.

(You had to double check - just in case your brain decided to get desperate and help you imagine the best case scenarios. Thinking and doing were two very different things, they were hard to tell apart when you were so dead tired though.)

It was one of those days.

“Morning, Honey Lemon,” you greeted as you navigated your way into the kitchen for some caffeine. Grabbing your travel coffee tumbler, you watched your blonde roommate in her morning stretching routine.

“Good morning, (Y/N)!” Honey cheerfully replied. “How was not sleeping last night?”

You halted your movements, looking up at her with concern. “Can you tell just by looking at me?”

Honey Lemon laughed. “No, silly. GoGo came home late last night and saw you up. I heard you shuffling around earlier this morning too. No raccoon eyes, if that’s what you’re worried about.”

“Thank goodness,” you said with a sigh as you continued pouring liquid energy into your tumbler. “This bio course is going to be the death of me.”

“You mean working two part time jobs will be the death of you,” GoGo corrected you as she walked out of her room. “Girl, you need time to have fun too.”

You stuck your tongue out at her. Rummaging through backpack, you noticed a missing tome of knowledge. “Has anyone seen my Medical Terms bible?”

“Coffee table.” Honey called out from the living room as she held the tree pose.

GoGo walked over to you with the heavy book in hand. You mouthed a thank you to her before taking a sip of coffee.

“(Y/N), you need to take some time to make some more friends or meet a cute boy,” Honey Lemon brought up. She exchanged a look with GoGo. “We know someone who you might like. He’s nice and funny, good looking as well.”

You gave your two roommates a sad smile. “By the time I’m ready for a relationship, a boy like that will already be snatched up by someone less stressed about their future.”

Grabbing your premade meals and a couple of snacks, you swung your backpack on.

“I work bookstore and pharmacy today, so I’ll see you both tomorrow morning. Good luck with your projects in the meantime.”

“Bye, (Y/N)!” Honey called out.

“Keep the luck, you need it more than we do,” GoGo said with salute.

Walking out of the apartment, you checked your phone for your schedule once more. Class at nine, bookstore at two and pharmacy at six. And it was already eight thirty, yay. Just your typical jam packed day, all so that you could pay off medical school tuition in the future.

Balancing everything in life was... impossible, but you were managing. 

Full course load university student, working two part time jobs, and a very minimal but still existent social life.

It wasn’t easy, but it was what you wanted. Going to med school was a necessary path to take if you wanted to help people out in your future career choice.

Just as you were arriving on campus, a voice caught your attention.

“(Y/N)…!”

You turned to see your friend Mina, another sufferer pre-med student.

“Hi Mina,” you greeted.

“Did you sleep last night?” she asked. When you shook your head, she let out a loud sigh. “Yeah, me too. Dr. Andrews is going to kill us with these lab reports and the test Thursday. I mean, I’d feel smarter if I weren’t so tired all the time.” 

You smiled. What a mood.

“Is my make up, okay?” Mina asked. “I don’t want Justin to see me at my worse - not yet.”

You glanced over Mina’s face. She had gone through the usual effort to make herself look cute. “You look fine and I’m sure Justin wouldn’t be scared off. He knows we’re med students.”

Mina made a face. “We’ve only been a dating for two months, (Y/N), two! He doesn’t know what kind of crazy we are yet. You never know when he might get skittish and ghost me.”

If you weren’t so tired, you would have laughed. 

Linking arms with Mina, you pulled her towards the classroom. 

Today was going to be just another day.

Tadashi checked over the information on his phone as he walked off campus towards the bookstore. He had been looking up information to help his robotics project and a certain book had come up in his recommendations. Deciding that the resource was worth checking out, and was worth the price, he was determined to get his hands on the book while his robot was still in the works.

Walking through the doors, he made his way to the medical section. Browsing the shelves, he kept an eye out for the particular title.

After circling the area for a while, he let out a huff. Where was this textbook?

Noticing a girl wearing a name tag, he approached her with smile.

“Hi, I was wondering if you could help me?”

She turned to him with a smile, (E/C) eyes making contact with his brown orbs.

“Of course, are you looking for something?”

Tadashi nodded, pulling out his phone and showing her the textbook information.

"Ahhh, this one. That’s a popular book with the first year pre-med student courses,” she commented. “Everyone always asks where this one is - we organize this one by title since there’s no author.”

Leading him back into the medical section, the girl stopped in an area of the bookstore that Tadashi had missed earlier. She tapped the spine of one of the books.

“This one is good resource for in depth procedural explanations,” she explained. “Not what you were looking for though...”

Scanning the shelves, the girl paused and frowned when she stopped a particular spot. 

“Is it out of stock?” she murmured, checking again. “For a textbook no one appreciates until third year, I’d be surprised if it’s sold out...” She turned back to Tadashi with an apologetic smile. “I’ll check if we have the book in stock - give me a second.”

Pulling out her phone, she typed up some information quickly. The results of her searching seemed to yield the same results.

“It looks like we’re actually out of stock for this textbook right now, although, we are restocking it,” she explained. “Would you like to request a reserve to get a copy?”

“That would be helpful, sure,” Tadashi agreed. 

“Great, let’s go fill out a form for you,” she chirped, leading him away. “Are you a med student?”

“No, I’m a robotics engineering student at SFIT,” he replied. “I’m working on something related to the medical field though.”

“Really? That’s so cool,” she exclaimed, looking genuinely interested. “It’s amazing to think how technology can incorporated into health sciences. If you don’t mind me asking, what are you working on?”

“A healthcare robot,” Tadashi explained with a fond smile. “It’s still in the works, nothing has been finished yet, I’m still working on the programming stages.”

“I think that’s incredible. I’m sure you’re capable of amazing things.”

The sincerity in her tone brought a smile to his face. For someone who didn’t know much about his project, the kind words from her were very nice.

“What about you?” Tadashi asked. “Are you a student?”

“Yeah, over at Sato Health Institute,” she responded. Sato was the top post secondary institution for health care in San Fransokyo located nearby - it even shared some programs with SFIT as Tadashi recalled. “I’m a pre-med student - if you hadn’t already guessed.”

“I might have had a feeling,” Tadashi said with a grin. “You seemed like you were familiar with things firsthand.”

The girl laughed. “Lots of firsthand experience, trust me.”

Approaching the help desk, the girl popped around to grab a paper and pen. Scrawling down information onto the page first, she then slid the paper over to Tadashi across the counter.

“Just fill out the rest of the form and the textbook should be arriving in the next three days.” 

Tadashi looked up from filling in the form, brown eyes flicking over to her name tag. “Thank you so much, (Y/N).”

“You’re welcome,” she replied. She took a sip from her coffee tumbler. Grabbing a sticky note, she offered it over to Tadashi. “If you’d like, leave your number and I’ll text you when it arrives - I’ll be working that day. I promise to use your number for professional reasons only.”

“I’d appreciate that,” Tadashi said as he wrote his number down. As he finished his form, he noticed a large medical terms textbook behind the counter on the desk next to the computer with a ton of sticky notes sticking out. “Is that yours?”

“That’s my current bible,” she affirmed with an amused tone. “Can’t survive without it.”

The two of them shared a laugh.

“Thanks again for your help.” Tadashi repeated as he returned the form.

“Just doing my job, don’t worry about it! It was great meeting you...” Her (E/C) eyes flickered down to the form and smile appeared on her face. “...Tadashi.”

As Tadashi left the bookstore, part of him was still lingering behind, thinking about (Y/N). She seemed like a nice girl and he really hoped that they might have another chance to encounter her again.

You fumbled with the door before pushing it open, popping back into the dark apartment. Hitting the light switch, you took off your shoes and checked for signs of your roommates.

Looks like Honey Lemon and GoGo were still out.

No surprise.

The three of you were always busy, whether the other two liked to admit it or not. 

Just as you were sorting things out in the kitchen and about to grab a snack, your phone buzzed.

Mina: OMG. Did you see Terry’s SNS profile update? 🤣🤣

(Y/N): What did he do this time? Do I want to know??

Mina: He put MD CANDIDATE. The AUDACITY of this man - I got a C+ working with partner project with him. My poor GPA... 😭

(Y/N): I mean...

Mina: DON’T

(Y/N): Cs get degrees 😂

Mina: RIP me. Seriously though, are you free to study for that bio test? 

(Y/N): let me grab my snack first, I’ll see you video chat

Mina: True MD candidate here

(Y/N): HA 

Letting out a sigh, you swiped a snack from the cupboard before heading back to your room. Fingers crossed you would get some sleep tonight.

“Oh, finally!”

Tadashi wiped his hands off with a rag and turned to look at Fred. Wasabi and GoGo were also looking at the beanie wearing boy, but neither of them decided to engage.

“Something up?” Tadashi asked, speaking up.

“The comic bookstore said they were out of that new series I was telling you guys about the other day,” Fred explained. “I refused to go to Richardson’s place, so apparently, they reached out to the nearby bookstore and they have a copy! I got to go pick it up.”

“The one near campus?”

“Yup.”

Tadashi paused, thinking for a moment before making his decision. 

“I’ll come with you.”

“Let’s go then, man!”

Catching up with Fred about the current condition of Baymax, the two soon arrived at the bookstore. Fred immediately beelined towards the help desk with Tadashi trailing behind him.

Just as Tadashi anticipated, a familiar face was working at the desk. This time though, (Y/N) was fairly concentrated on the stack of flashcards piled on her space next to textbooks filled with sticky notes.

“Uh, excuse me,” Fred said, practically bouncing on his toes.

That was enough to jolt her out of her studying. Shoving away her flashcards, she offered Fred a smile. “Yes?”

“I believe someone called about -”

“Oh! I know what you’re here for,” (Y/N) said, jumping up. She got up and skimmed over the bookshelf behind the counter. “Ah, here it is. Fred, right?”

At the sight of his new comic, Fred nodded happily. He quickly accepted it from you. “Is there a comic book section?”

(Y/N) nodded. “Just straight that way, it’s not a big collection, but you might find something.”

“Alright, thanks!” 

Fred turned to see Tadashi lingering around. “You coming, Tadashi?”

“There’s something I want to check out, I’ll catch up in a bit,” the black haired male responded.

As Fred disappeared, the girl turned her attention over to Tadashi. 

“I didn’t think I would see you again so soon,” she commented. “The book is not in yet, sorry.”

Tadashi smiled. “That’s fine. I see you’re here often.” 

“Yeah, when I’m not busy with classes or my other job, here I am.”

The words piqued your interest. “Other job?”

“I also work at a pharmacy,” (Y/N) explained.

“Ahh. You must be a busy person,” Tadashi said. He tilted his head towards your desk. “Studying too?”

She flushed. “Yeah. Only because today’s pretty quiet - my manager doesn’t mind as long as I’m work as I’m needed. There’s a test coming up.”

“Good luck, I think you need it.”

“I do. Thank you.”

Tadashi watched as (Y/N) moved back to sitting at the desk. As she picked up her flashcards, she looked up at Tadashi.

“How’s the healthcare robot going? Any progress in the last 24 hours?”

“Baymax finally had some supply come in for assembling,” he responded. “So, just a little bit.”

“Baymax?” she repeated confused. “Oh. Is that their name?”

Tadashi nodded.

“Baymax… I like it, sounds friendly.”

“I should probably let you get back to studying,” Tadashi commented, rubbing the back of his neck. “Sorry for bothering you.”

“Not at all, I’m happy to chat with you.”

- Wednesday. 6PM. -  

Honey: (Y/N)?

(Y/N): What’s up, Honey Lemon?

Honey: I heard the pre-med students plan on throwing a party this weekend? 

Honey: Are you going?

(Y/N): Nah, I think I have work.

GoGo: You always work.

(Y/N): Huh, I never noticed.

(Y/N): Anyways, parties are not my scene. I’d be happy spending a free evening at home instead.

GoGo: Mina says she’ll miss you.

(Y/N): She’ll have Justin, she’ll be okay

Honey: Well, if you ever decide to go, we know a boy you can take with you.

(Y/N): Thanks, but I’ll pass. 🥰

- Thursday. 5PM. -

Unknown: Hi Tadashi. The textbook you wanted finally came in! Feel free to drop by anytime to come pick it up.

Tadashi: Alright, thanks (Y/N)!

Unknown: Yep, no prob!

Tadashi: Hey, is this your personal number?

Unknown: yeah 😊

(Y/N) has been added to contacts.

Tadashi: Hope you don’t mind if I contact you like in the future. 😊

(Y/N): Oh, I wouldn’t mind at all!

“Tadashi, hi,” you greeted, waving as the boy came into your line of sight. With a baseball cap on his head today, you almost mistaken him for someone else. Pulling out the textbook, you handed it over to him. “Here you go! You weren’t the only one trying to get your hands on this textbook today.”

Tadashi peered at you curiously as he accepted the textbook. 

“You look tired,” he pointed out.

You just shrugged with a half smile. “The bio test was today - that was gruesome.”

“At least that’s done with,” he encouraged you. “Week’s almost over, too.”

“Best part is I’m off in five,” you agreed.

 You could see your words caught Tadashi’s interest. 

“Are... are you still working after?” 

Shaking your head, you leaned back against the counter. “Nope, told them I was busy today so no shifts at the pharmacy tonight.”

“Would you like to go out with me then?” Tadashi asked hopefully. “We can hit up a café and grab something to eat?”

Good thing you were leaning against the counter, because the surprise you felt would have toppled you over.

“Oh, um, sure!” you agreed, cheeks heating up a little. “I’ll meet you outside in five?”

“Sounds good.”

- Friday. 9AM. -

Tadashi: I enjoyed my time with you yesterday. 

(Y/N): I enjoyed my time too! Although the cookies there were kind of hard... 😢

Tadashi: Yeah... I find us somewhere with nice cookies next time.

(Y/N): Just a warning, next time might be a while. My schedule is usually full.

Tadashi: That’s fine!! If you ever find yourself with free time, let me know, I’d like to spend it with you.

(Y/N): 🥰

(Y/N): You’re too sweet, Tadashi. 

(Y/N): How are you single??

Tadashi: Haha, I could ask you the same thing. Probably the same reasons as you though. I’m usually too focused with what’s in front of me.

Tadashi: Hope to see you around though.

(Y/N): me too

- Some Tuesday. 8PM. -

“And your total is 18.95,” you said, pressing buttons on the register to confirm the amount. The customer tapped their card for the purchase before taking their bags. “I hope you feel better!”

“Thank you,” the customer responded as they left. 

You waited until they had gone completely before heading back to find your manager. Spotting one of older pharmacy students, you decided to talk to them instead.

“Hi,” you greeted.

“(Y/N), need any drugs?” Harper asked with a smile.

“I’ll take them all,” you joked. “Let Aria know I left if you see her for me?”

“Yeah, go. You’re free,” she ushered, waving you away.

As you pulled on your jacket and stepped out of the pharmacy, a figure caught you by surprise.

“Tadashi!” you exclaimed. 

“Surprised?” he asked. “Thought I’d walk you home, not safe for you to walk the street alone at night.”

“I do it frequent enough,” you countered with a smile.

“Ooh, risk taker,” Tadashi said.

You laughed. “I appreciate this though, thanks.”

Tadashi nodded. As the two of you were catching up each other on what happened throughout the day, you felt Tadashi slip his hand into yours. Fingers intertwined, you could feel your heart racing.

This was something you didn’t want to let go of.

- Some Monday. 2PM. -

GoGo: Yo, Tadashi

GoGo: Fred wants to know when you’ll be back with the snacks.

Tadashi: Just stepped back on campus. 

GoGo: Took you a while.

GoGo: You seeing someone behind our back?

Tadashi: Ha. Does Baymax count?

- A couple weeks later. Friday. 10AM. -

“Someone looks cute today,” Mina commented as you sat down next to her in the lecture hall. She eyed you up and down, nodding approvingly. “Not working today?”

“Yeah,” you replied. “My rare day off besides class. Thought I’d put a little more effort in today.”

“Well, you look adorable,” Mina confirmed. She let out a sigh when she saw the professor walk in. “Let’s see if we can survive these next two hours.”

“Challenge accepted,” you said, bumping her shoulder playfully. “Although, I might lose you halfway.”

Mina gasped and smacked your arm.

You laughed as you pulled your laptop. Although the two hours went by at a decent pace, you were glad the course was three quarters way through. 

At the brutal pace your professor went, there was nothing but review for the few weeks before final exams. It was nice to know you didn’t have to teach yourself an entire unit in a week before your final.

Bidding Mina goodbye, you weaved your way out of the lecture hall and out into campus. At this point, most groups of students you saw hanging around were study groups. You would have been like them too, if you hadn’t worked so hard to make things work.

Balancing two part time jobs along with classes had you putting in so much extra effort that it usually paid off in the long run.

Yay.

Navigating your way through the streets with the GPS app open on your phone, you soon spotted the campus you were looking for.

SFIT.

(Abbreviated, because thinking through what each letter stood for was too much effort.)

Slowly wandering around as you pulled up the campus directory, your eyes glimmered when you spotted the building you were looking for. Popping inside, you clutched onto your bag, peering around curiously. There was so much science happening in this space. 

Lots of creativity too, you wondered why their tradition was to prank the art school.

Poking around, you soon realized you were lost among the many rooms and labs. Your mission was a failure. Pouting, you pulled your phone.

(Y/N): Help me, I’m lost.

Tadashi: What do you mean?

(Y/N): I wandered into the lab building and was going to surprise you with a visit, but I don’t know where to find you. 🙁

(Y/N): I didn’t think this through...

Tadashi: Awwww

Tadashi: What room number do you see? I’ll find you.

(Y/N): Lab 2B

Tadashi: omw

As you awkwardly waited for Tadashi to show up, you tried not to look suspicious. Although admittedly, you were sure you looked suspicious regardless since you were lost.

“There you are,” the soft yet deep voice greeted from behind you.

Turning around to see Tadashi, you smiled. 

“Sorry for the trouble,” you apologized. 

“Not at all.” Tadashi shook his head. He took a moment to take you in. Within his eyes, you were absolutely beautiful. He didn’t want to mess up, so he kept it to himself. He’d voice his thoughts one day. “Welcome to Nerd Lab, by the way.”

So this was where Tadashi, your roommates, and their friends all spent their long hours working.

Tadashi took your hand. “Come on, I want to show you my lab.”

Following after Tadashi, the two of you entered the elevator behind arriving on the floor of his personal lab space. He opened a door, showing you his tidy space.

“Baymax won’t be in the works for a while, but here,” he pulled out several large blueprints. The image of an almost plush like character was found in the middle. “This is going to be Baymax.”

In awe of all the labelled details and planning in place, you looked up at Tadashi.

“This is incredible,” you breathed out. “You’re incredible too.”

Tadashi dipped his head down and captured your lips for a kiss. 

Before he had the opportunity to pull back too far, you went in and gave him a quick peck as well.

Although the two of you were flushed, the loving gaze you could see in Tadashi’s eyes made you feel hopeful about this relationship.

“Can I see the medical programming?” you asked, breaking the silence.

Tadashi shyly nodded. “All the computer.” 

- Later. -

(Y/N): Do you think we should let our friends know?

Tadashi: Nah, they’ll catch on eventually.

(Y/N): But if they don’t should I just accept their blind date request?

Tadashi: WHAT?

(Y/N): 😂

(Y/N): I asked for more details one time.

(Y/N): He’s this handsome robotics engineering student, who nice and has a good sense of humor. Apparently he’s very dedicated to his work too.

Tadashi: …

Tadashi: They’ve tried to set me up with their friend as well. 

(Y/N): Hmm, maybe we were meant to be after all

Tadashi: I think so. 😀

(Y/N): 😘

[beyondspaceandstars]

Hey!

Feel free to ignore this if this isn’t appealing to you, but honestly I’m simping over Carol Denvers and could really go for some steamy fluff with her x reader.

Maybe just a dinner date gone dirty talk? Do whatever you want with this! :) Have a great day.

Completely Yours

Relationship: Carol Danvers x Reader

Warnings: Steamy, but not smutty

Word Count: 1.8k

A/N: amazingly, I actually already had a piece I wrote last year that kind of falls into these suggestions! i tweaked the ending a bit from my original writing to hopefully make it more on the steamy side. and there's an element of jealousy/protective Carol. So, I hope this works okay! I immediately thought of it after reading your request :) Also I absolutely love Carol, one of my favorite MCU characters <3 I have a few pieces already written for her but only published on ao3 (and a previous writing blog)

Masterlist

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

You stared at your lipstick collection, completely baffled by the choices. Was the red lip too bold for your lacy black dress? But was the pink lip too simple? Maybe the dress was the problem…

"Stop it," you mumbled to yourself and grabbed the wine red lipstick. You were nearly humored with your brain’s antics. There shouldn’t be anything to overthink given the fact you’ve been on countless dates with Carol. Heck, you don’t even remember being this nervous for your very first date, but, perhaps, the fact this was an anniversary date was maybe getting to you a bit.

You two were two years into the relationship but you still wanted to give it your all especially on such an occasion. You both had been so busy with one thing or another for your first anniversary so there was a lingering duty to make it up — and that’s exactly why the glam had to be perfect, no matter how many times Carol insisted you were gorgeous without it.

A knock came from the bathroom door as you were finishing with the lipstick.

"Babe," Carol called out. "Almost ready?"

You gave your hair a quick glance over and exited the bathroom. You were greeted by your stunning girlfriend all dolled up and looking as lovely as ever.

"All good," you smiled, shamelessly eyeing her.

She gave a knowing smirk, "You look so beautiful."

"Maybe we both clean up well," you teased, shrugging.

Your girlfriend just rolled her eyes at your antics and motioned towards the front door. You grabbed your purse and started heading ahead of Carol. But being the cheeky girlfriend she is, she couldn’t let you get far without giving a teasing tap on your behind. Now it was your turn to shoot her the eye roll which she just laughed away, following you out the door.

***

The restaurant was a busy scene tonight and upon noticing the patrons and their seemingly wandering eyes, Carol was on you in full protective mode. This could’ve been expected no matter where you two had gone and you’ve had to come to terms with that. Carol was quite the protective type and typically you adored it but honestly, it wasn’t necessary in your eyes. There wasn’t a thing — or person — in the world that could whisk you away from your love.

Choosing to ignore her change in demeanor, you pushed through the crowd to the hostess table.

"Thank gosh we made reservations," you said as the hostess left to check on the table.

But your girlfriend didn’t quite hear you. She gave a hum in response while fixated on something at the bar in the corner of the restaurant. You tried figuring out what held her attention but couldn’t pick anything out. Maybe she thought she saw someone she knew? But you dismissed it as you saw the hostess motioning you to follow her to your reserved table.

The two of you settled in and started flipping through the menu. Carol seemed to be occupied by the food selection, which gave you some sense of relief. Fingers crossed whatever had her captivated before had vanished. At one point she even grabbed your hand for a bit, running her thumb on the back of it lovingly as you two browsed.

It wasn’t until the waiter came by for the drink order that you realized she had her guards up the entire time.

"What can I get you two to drink?" The waiter asked.

"Glass of Pinot Grigio for me," you said, turning back to the food items.

When you didn’t hear Carol’s lovely voice responding with her drink order, you glanced up to find her still staring behind you.

"Um, could you give us a second?" You asked the waiter. They just gave a polite smile and headed towards the kitchen.

You sighed, slamming your menu on the table. That got your girlfriend’s attention.

"Carol, what is going on? Is there a galactic threat behind me or something?"

"Honey, no," Carol sighed. "It’s just… This guy at the bar keeps looking at you."

Your jaw dropped. "That’s what this is about? You’re gonna be distracted our entire anniversary dinner because you think some guy is looking at me?"

Carol’s once rigid expression quickly turned soft at your tone. She grabbed your hand across the table, trying to soothe your rising anger. Shaking her head, she said, "No, babe, that’s ridiculous of me."

You put your other hand on hers, nodding. "It is ridiculous. There is nothing worth ruining this night over, okay? You’ve got me, baby, I’m not going anywhere."

"Forever?" She smirked.

"Forever," you mumbled as you leaned across the table to give her a kiss which she happily leaned into.

***

The dinner went very well after Carol calmed down. Drinks helping to ease any worry. You two flirted and giggled as if it was the first all over again and, boy, did it feel magical. Pasta was eaten, wine was sipped… and even kisses were stolen like lovestruck school girls. The man at the bar had been completely forgotten by both of you.

After you two finished your dessert (with a side of Carol’s cheeky comments about dessert after the dessert), you had to run to the restroom. Carol nodded and said she’d wait for you at the front of the restaurant.

With a quick kiss, you departed from the table. In the restroom, you did some make-up retouch up. The night was just heating up in your eyes and you still wanted to look like an absolute dream for your woman — not to mention you were quite antsy from the constant teasing.

After a quick powder and recollecting your items, you reemerged from the restroom. You were fumbling for your phone in your purse, making your way to the restaurant exit, when you slammed into something hard.

A bit dazed, you look up expecting a sudden wall or pole, but instead you were met by some handsome, well-dressed man uncomfortably close. He was smirking down at you, making your cheeks burn in embarrassment.

"Sorry, sir. I wasn’t looking where I was going." You said, giving your fakest, most polite smile.

Apparently, it worked too well because the man’s smirk turned into a smile with his eyes curiously watching you.

"Trust me, sweetheart, it’s all good."

The pet name made your stomach turn, red flags waving. You let out a breathy laugh and tried stepping around him, but he blocked your attempt.

"Sir, I have someone waiting-,"

"Oh, the girl you were with?" He asked. You gulped realizing this wasn’t any man, this was the man Carol had been nervous about. You really didn’t think there was any man staring at you and that it was just Carol's paranoia kicking in. But no, your girlfriend had been rightfully cautious and you were kicking yourself for being doubtful.

"Sir, really-,"

"I think your friend wouldn’t mind waiting," he said, not only cutting you off but blocking you again with his broad body, his hand coming near your side as if trapping you.

"She’s my girlfriend," you snapped back, blood boiling at his game. "So, I’m not interested."

"Oh, a girlfriend! That could make this a lot more interesting-"

"Hey!" A voice boomed from the dining room entrance. All heads turned towards your clearly pissed-off girlfriend, heels hot marching towards you. She was steaming — well, maybe nearly glowing — with anger. "Get away from her."

"Ah, it’s the girlfriend-,"

"You’re damn right it’s the girlfriend," Carol snapped, eyeing him quite intensely. You knew there wasn’t much stopping her from taking him down this second. "And now, if you don’t mind, I’d like to take my girl home."

She didn’t even let him get in another syllable before grabbing your hand and leading you to the exit. Patrons eyes were still focused on the rampage occurring but you were way too focused on your girlfriend. You weren’t sure you had ever personally witnessed this side of her. Sure, you two had arguments before, but this was… A lot. She was scared, angry, frustrated… A bottle waiting to explode.

When you two made it back to the car, you went to console Carol but she never gave you a chance. Within seconds you were pressed against the passenger side door, her lips hot and ferocious against yours. She moved with such anger, such passion, you almost let yourself get lost in it but you knew it wouldn’t solve anything like talking would.

"Honey," you gasped for air, pushing Carol gently off of you. You cupped her face with shaking hands. "Hey, I’m sorry."

"No, it’s just…" She pulled away, arms flailing in defeat. "I knew it! I knew that asshole would… God! Why do you have to be so beautiful?"

You sighed, your gaze drifting to your hands, picking at your nude nail polish. "I really didn’t think there was anyone looking at me."

"You innocent, gorgeous woman," Carol chuckled in disbelief. "I feel like I’m always shooing men away from you."

"It shouldn’t matter," you said, grabbing your girlfriend’s nervous hands. "I’m yours, honey. I am yours."

Carol hummed in appreciation and moved closer to you. "Mine?"

You nodded, watching her go from frazzled to lusting. She closed the gap, nearly towering over you as you leaned against the car. Her sweet, strong face was barely illuminated by the streetlights but you saw the love come back to her eyes.

"Really mine?" She asked again as she effortlessly dipped her head and started kissing up your neck. Her hand began making its way down your side, past your hips, where it began caressing the inside of your thigh.

"Yes, Carol, yes!" You giggled, squirming under her actions.

Her kisses made their way up to your face. She whispered so lovingly in your ear, "Maybe, we should get home, then, and you could show me." She paused. "Because I'm definitely itching to show you just how much you mean to me, baby. You wouldn't believe the ideas running through my head."

Briefly, her fingers lingered over your clothed core. You sighed.

"Maybe we should just find somewhere private around here?" you whispered back, motioning towards the backseat door. "I don’t know if I can wait."

And that was very much true. You could already feel yourself soaking through the material of your panties.

"You little minx," your girlfriend laughed, placing a needy kiss on your lips, her thigh subtly grinding into you. "You’re going to kill me one day."

You moaned, pressing yourself against her, your body burning with need. "Not if you kill me first."

[gentlenekomata]

fairies adventure; | Sakura&Elise

Rumor has it that life-giving fairies reside in a nearby forest. They say if you’re dexterous enough to catch one, she’ll stay with you and heal you even when you’re at death’s door. Investigate the forest and see if you can’t put these rumors to rest—or prove them true.  [Grants Reason +1]

 starter for @nohrslittleflower​ ♡

Another soft morning was approaching as the tiny priestess was getting ready to accomplish all her duties: her morning routine was quite plain, as she had to do some mopping in the main hall, then preparing some papers for the noon ceremony and lastly, checking on soldiers and students that were recovering from any kind of illness or wound. She really enjoys taking care of others and the way she does it, somewhat makes the day of the unfortunate person stuck in bed. But first thing first: keeping the ambience clean. As first commitment, she usually liked checking the main hallway of the church and have a first cleaning –as she knew that after her, there would be some of the church maiden that would clean the rest. So, with the broom in the hand, she swiftly passed through the high granite columns that dotted the long hall of the church, now and then greeting and smiling at the churchgoers that passed by.

This church is always so bustling, she thought, quickly making her way until the end of the hall, finishing the cleaning path. As she proceeded in her mopping, she found herself on the second floor of the monastery, making her way toward her room, as she had to prepare the ceremonial speech, as well as checking some old papers she left unfinished.

Where was the storage room –huh?

Walking through the corridor, she overheard some people talking loud about a rather peculiar argument: fairies.

“I know what I’m saying! I swear he saw one of them among the trees!” stated a blondish man, hands gesticulating as to prove his theory and beliefs. “Guess your friend is bluffing, like many other times.” the other man replied, a clear smirk was to be seen on his face, clearly mocking their statement. “I’ll prove you wrong!” the blonde continued and went on his speech as the two of them disappeared through the corridors.

Sakura wasn’t the type of person who eavesdrop on people, yet, this time it was almost natural and she did come up with some juicy information, afterall: apparently there were some fairies in a nearby forest and, as a matter of facts, they can help you with curative incantations. As a healer and priestess, those tiny creatures would be truly interesting to study and to approach, since they can be very helpful if she could apprehend something from them. Yet, she couldn’t really venture alone in a forest she had never been into –plus, she had her duties to attend.

Guess it’ll be for another time, she sighed as she put away the broom in the storage room, then she directly headed towards her room, collecting the papers she needed for later and went right into the library, since she still needed some information from the holy books. In less than a minute, she reached for the big library, a really majestic place for Sakura, the first time she set foot inside it: as the long red carpet ran across the room, there could be seen several scholars and researchers browsing through papers and books, searching information as the priestess would be doing in few moments.

Before she could reach for a place to sit, a soft thud caught her attention –a book fell from a table on her right. Without thinking twice, she stooped to collect it and with great amazement, she made a curious discovery.

A book about fairies— that’s quite odd

The person who dropped it didn’t really realize it until the petite girl directly addressed to them, with a soft smile and a gentle tone.

“Is it yours?” pale hand offering the book, while her inquisitive eyes were observing their books and papers. “It’s an interesting subject to study and I'm actually curious about it too.”