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thewulf · 10 months

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Angel || Jake "Hangman" Seresin

Summary: Request - hi! would love to send a req! i was thinking abt what to req and thought abt the song angel by shaggy! (pls listen to it first) so basically hangman has always had a crush on reader (cs: angel) and basically everytime she walks into the hard deck he goes to the jukebox to play “angel” for her, and u can go from there! no pressure to do this tho :)

A/N: My fav man. As always, hope you enjoy :)

Pairing: Jake "Hangman" Seresin x Y/N

Word Count: 3.6k +

One – The Hard Deck

“There she is!” Your favorite voice yelled from the corner of the bar. Immediately, a cheesy little grin came over you as your eyes found him. The stupid, stupid man who’d captured your heart so flawlessly. The stupid man who wasn’t stupid at all.

You admired him for half a second before walking right towards him, eyes right on him. The sun hit his side so beautifully it had your mouth watering right then and there. You wished he hadn’t a clue how bad you had it for him. But he only seemed to see you as a friend.

You hugged his side all too awkwardly once you made it to the high top the group was sitting at, “Hey guys.” You waved to the group of pilots you’d grown to love over the last few weeks.

“I was getting worried.” Jake turned to you brushing a hand over your arm, “It’s late. Was afraid I couldn’t do this.” He winked at you before quite literally waltzing over to the jukebox. In under five seconds Jake had picked the song and made his way right back to you.

Leaning down he whispered the start of the song in your ear. A hasty dark blush blossomed over your cheeks as you listened to his deep voice vibrating against your ear. You shoved him away playfully when you saw the looks your fellow pilots were giving the two of you. Looks that told you the obvious. Nat shook her head. Bradley made a disgusted face. Fanboy made a kissy face and you turned away with embarrassment coating your features.

Jake tugged your hand, “Come on Angel, lets get you a drink.” You let him pull you along to the bar hand in hand. You looked up to him with a big smile as you walked over to the bartender you’d become friends with.

He looked down at you suppressing the smile he wanted to give you, trying to play it somewhat cool around you, “What?”

You shook your head, “Nothing. Just admiring the view.” You remarked catching him by surprise. It was an endless game between the two of you. Incessant flirting that led to absolutely nothing. It drove the pilots mad. It drove your friends mad, and it certainly drove you absolutely fucking crazy. You were actually flirting with the guy but you’d all but given up hoping that something would happen between the two of you. It was like you were tapdancing on the line between friends and something more, but you never seemed to cross it no matter how much you let him know you wanted to. You’d just have to accept being friends with the guy. It was worth it though, to have him in your life.

“Can I tell you something?” He asked you once you made it up to the bar.

You nodded looking ahead, almost afraid of what would come out of his mouth. With your heart beginning to hammer in your chest you answered him, “Would you still tell me if I said no?”

A light laugh came from him before he shook his head at you, “Probably. Only because I know you’d say yes.”

You grinned, “A game of hypotheticals. My favorite game. Shoot, you can tell me something. Anything. Whenever you want.” It slipped out before you could stop it. He had you wrapped around his pinky finger, and he didn’t even know it.

He smirked knowing he had the upper hand now, “Really? Whatever I want?”

If you could’ve rolled your eyes harder you would’ve, “Spit it out Jake.”

He leaned on the bar turning towards you. He looked so damn good. Too damn good. It almost made you claustrophobic as he looked you over. Your own eyes scanned his face for a hint at what he was thinking.

“You look real pretty in that dress darlin’. Is that why you were so late?” He asked, prying just a little bit.

Your mind went blank once you heard his words. Was he just messing with you? You shook your head, “If you must know. I wasn’t going to come tonight. I was supposed to go on a date.” You don’t really know why you’d admitted it to him. Maybe to see his reaction? Maybe to make him feel something? You did the know the reason, just now wanting to admit it to yourself.

You’d certainly piqued his curiosity now. He leaned forward a little, you watched as his lips parted slightly. With a disbelieving voice he continued, “A date?”

“Mhmm.” You took the beer from the bartenders hand nodding at him and mumbling your thanks before turning back to Jake, “But he bailed, what’s new?” You sighed not really wanting to talk about it, but Jake was going to ask, he always did.

“Should’ve told me. I would’ve talked you out of it sooner.” He said all too confidently, “Although, I do get the benefit of him bailing. Seeing you in that pretty dress.” His eyes trailed your body all too obviously.

You shook your head smiling widely, “You’re probably right Jake.”

“Aren’t I always?” He shot you a wink knowing it’d get a rise out of you. His favorite activity.

You let out a patient breath from your nose, “You’re insufferable, you know that?” You shot him back a wink.

“And yet, you stick around Angel.” He pinched your hip before sitting back down at the high top across from you. Your cheeks burned from the smile you were holding.

“I always will. If you’ll have me, that is.” You added feeling a little nervous. You’d meant it far more deeply than you knew he’d take. Little did you know, he took it the exact same way. His heart soared. He loved you dearly. Afraid to do anything, say anything that’d put that love in jeopardy. He was as clueless to your love as you were to his.

He took a long sip of his cold beer. You watched as a bead of condensation rolled down his hands. Damn, you really did have it bad for this man. He grinned seeing your dazed gaze watching him. How he didn’t put two and two together was so typical. You were beyond obvious with your affection for the blonde pilot.

“For forever, darlin’.” He watched as the blush rose to your cheeks. A dangerous game he played with you night in and night out.

Two – The Bowling Alley

“Your late.” You poked Jake’s side. He was lacing up his bowling shoes when you spotted him. You just had to give it back to him after he gave you so much shit for

He stuck his tongue out at you earning a small giggle, “I was on a date.” He quipped. What was he onto? Looking for your reaction?

“No, you weren’t.” You snorted lightly, crossing your hands over your chest not believing a word he said.

He shook his head, “And how do you know that?” He stood taking your hand in his. You’d certainly never tire of the small signs of affection he gave you every so often. You believing it was nothing more than a friendly gesture. He knew it meant so much more.

“You’d tell me.”

He shrugged, “You didn’t tell me when you were going on one.” He walked you over to the lane you and your teammates shared every Wednesday. Wednesday night bowling league at the lanes across from the base. A two-hour long break from the real world you were talked into by Jake a few months ago.

“But that’s me Jake. You know that. You’re a big mouth. It’s why I like you so much.” You teased him poking him in the side a few more times feeling awfully touchy feely with him tonight. Not that he minded a bit.

His mouth parted in a wide smile, “Oh is it Angel?” Jake absolutely adored that your callsign was something he already wanted to call you. A literal angel on this planet. Beautiful, kind, a heart of gold and a badass in the air? He was sold the moment he saw you shoot down Bradshaw in training. That witty mouth of yours made it a close second.

“One of the few. Very few reasons I like you.” You had to humble him, always. If you only flattered him he’d become the insufferable twat he always played with Hangman. A guy so different than the one you came to love.

He scrunched his nose, “Cold darlin’. Ice cold. That’s why I love you.”

“Oh, you love me huh?” You teased.

He nodded so nonchalantly it made your heart gallop in your chest, “Sure do.” As a friend, you wanted to add.

Before you could reply you heard a yell from Nat, “Angel you’re up!” And that was Jake’s cue. As soon as you stood to go bowl your round he went to the Jukebox machine. He found the song with ease sliding in a dollar of quarters. He never forgot. He saw the laugh out of the corner of his eye when Shaggy’s song came on. It quickly becoming a running gig between the two of you.

You bowled a spare clapping with glee as you turned to your team. Nobody was paying attention except for Jake. He clapped right along with you. A gleeful laugh right along with it. God, how this man knew how to drive you right crazy.

He walked up to you taking your hands in his, “What are you doing?” You asked, a creeping blushing coursing your neck up to your cheeks.

“What’s it look like Angel? I’m dancing with you.” He took your hands guiding you in a small motion. Seeing Rooster and Phoenix snicker out of the corner of your eye raised your anxiety about the whole thing.

He shook his head, the motion drew your eyes back to him, “Look at me darlin’.” He tucked a finger under your chin keeping your eyes on him, “That’s a girl.” How’d he know you were feeling weird?

Your heart about dropped out of your body at that praise. What the hell was he doing to you? Did he have a clue how he affected you? Your knees nearly buckled in on themselves at that comment. Thank God he was holding you close.

At a loss for words your mouth simple parted before it closed. You let him lead you in whatever the hell was going on. The group of pilots going back to ignoring the two of you and your usual, odd antics. For whatever reason you were perfectly content being weird and odd and whatever Jake wanted you to do. It was fun with him. It didn’t matter with him.

“You’re my angel, you’re my darling angel.” Jake mumbled lazily bring you back to reality. It happened often with you, getting lost in your own little bubble. He thought it to be incredibly endearing. A trait he’d adored about you.

Your head slowly moved to look up to him, “I’ve always liked this song.”

He gave your hand a squeeze, “Me too.”

Three – The Piano Bar

The five of you sat down at a table close to one of the dueling pianos. It was one of Bradley’s favorite bars, so he’d begged you to come out with him. You’d happily agreed which got an unhappy Jake to agree to go. He’d agree to do any plans if you were going to be there. The two of you growing rather close over the last few weeks.

“I’m requesting a song. Anybody need anything while I’m up?” Jake asked looking right at you. Acknowledging the group but staring at you. His eyes rarely left you.

You shook your head, “I’m good Jake. Thanks.” You waved him off turning back to the group waiting on him to come back.

“When are you going to tell him?” Nat asked leaning back in her seat.

You cocked your head to look at her, “What are you talking about Nat?”

She rolled her eyes, very aggressively, “That you like him. Love him even.” She wiggled her eyebrows knowing you were skittish when it came to admitting feelings.

“Shut up Nat.”

“See, told you boys. She wouldn’t deny it.” She leaned back even further. Her cocky grin only growing further.

“Shut up! I’ve made it rather obvious. Don’t you think?” You asked the group.

“I’ll say.” Bradley agreed quickly. While Fanboy just nodded his head agreeing without any words.

Just then your song came on. Angel by Shaggy. You smiled with the utmost happiness hearing the chords come over the Piano. Jake walked back over sliding in the seat next to you. He leaned over whispering in your ear, “I had to.” He winked before pulling completely away.

Midway through the song Jake stood holding his hand out to you, “Dance with me?” He asked looking at you longingly.

Placing your hand in his he pulled you up quickly. Leaning down he brushed your ear with his lips, “You look real pretty again tonight. A real-life angel.”

You shook your head, “That’s quite the compliment Jake.”

“The truth Angel.” He winked pulling you close to him

Letting out a nervous breath you answered him, “Thank you.” You whispered leaning your head on his chest hesitantly. He smiled down at you placing a hand on the side of your head pressing your head in further to his chest gently. Letting you know it was okay, he welcomed the contact. He wanted the contact from you. Needed it.

You got the message and leaned yourself on his. He wrapped his hands around you gently. You’d ignored the comments and snickers from your friends close by. Nat letting out a cheer when she saw the intimacy between the two of you.

“You’re a queen and that’s how you should be treated.” Jake whispered kissing your cheek softly. The two of you had shared many friendly kisses on the cheek but this felt different. It felt like it was loaded with a thousand questions. A million what-ifs.

You closed your eyes embracing the moment with him. Enjoying the little snippets of the song he sang to you. When it ended you opened your eyes to see his intently studying you.

“You’re beautiful Y/N. So beautiful.” He admitted before he could turn back. It was a step. A small step in the right direction to test the waters. The blush that coated your cheeks were sign enough for him. You felt it too. The pull and the attraction. A rare feeling you needed to lean into.

“Thank you Jake. You’re not so bad yourself. Clean up nice. Handsome guy.” You kissed his cheek right on back before letting go of him and stepping away. You’d joined the table again once the song was over. Nat gave you a knowing look. You simply shook your head and looked away. You’d tell her later.

Four – Allie’s Wedding

“Jake Seresin. Will you have this dance with me?” You asked holding your hand out to him. ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love,’ played in the background. A song you asked Allie, your best friend, to include on the wedding playlist.

Nodding quickly, he took your hand in his. He couldn’t take his eyes off you, not for a single second. He loved that he was sitting in the crowd, and you were standing by her side. The bride was beautiful, but you were so much more in his eyes. He watched as your eyes lit up seeing your best friend glide down the aisle. He dabbed his own eyes seeing you cry when she got married. He was a damn sucker for you and only you.

He placed one hand around your hip and another around your back pulling you close. You placed hands over his shoulders. Looking up you grinned to him, “Thanks for coming with me tonight.

“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else darlin’.” He squeezed your hip with his hand that was placed there. Goosebumps right up your arm gave you away.

You looked his face over wanting nothing more than him, “It means a lot the me Jake. Thank you.”

Lightly, he place his forehead on yours. Shivers ran down your body as you felt his hot breath on your face. He pulled your waist closer to his as the two of you swayed to the music, “’Course,” He said as if it was the most obvious thing, because to him it was, “Can I tell you something?” He asked feeling awfully nervous about what he was going to admit to you in a few seconds.

You smiled brightly, “Always, Jake.”

Now or never. Jake had promised himself he’d do this today. You’d all but confirmed your feelings out loud to him, “I love you. So much Y/N. Love, like love you. I love you as a friend yes. But what I’m trying to say is that I’m in love with you.” He laughed feeling a weight released from his chest. He hardly ever called you by your actual name, he must’ve been pretty serious you concluded. That must’ve meant he actually loved you.

You felt your blood run cold. Something you’d wished to hear for so long coming out of his mouth, “You do?” It didn’t feel real, not for a second.

His forehead was still on your as he nodded into you, “Yes. So much. For so long. I’m sorry if you don’t…”

“Shut up Jake.” You placed a gentle finger on his lips getting him to stop talking immediately.

“What?” He looked exasperated, confused as hell. He didn’t know which way you were going to take it.

Rolling your eyes, you felt a surge of confidence. Grabbing the back of his head with both of your hands you answered him, “I love you too. So much.” He let out a soft hiss at the touch of your hands before a smirk adorned that beautiful face of his.

“I’m going to kiss you now.” He waited for a response of any sort before he did anything.

A nod from you was all he needed before he took your breath away. A gentle kiss turned more desperate quickly. Years of longing. Years of barely missing each other. Years of chasing and pining finally led to this moment. He was yours. You were his. It was that simply. Finally, that simple.

You broke apart needy for oxygen. Jake kissed down your neck not giving a damn if he needed to breathe or not. He finally had you. He needed to show you much he needed you. Craved and desired you. He made it all the way to your collar bone before your gasped.

You pulled his head off your neck feeling all too overwhelmed, “You can’t do that here.” A breath escaped your mouth as you tried to regain control of your heart.

A sly smile crossed his lips as he realized he had you in his grasp. He leaned over whispering right into your ear, “Why not pretty thing?” Jake had to admit he loved the way you shivered beneath him knowing he was the cause.

“Because.” You were nearly whimpering in his grasp. His thumbs pressed in at your hips pulling you as close as he could get away with publicly.

Jake shook his head leaning to your other side, “Because why?” He whispered so damn close again. Fucking hell, he was out to kill you.

“Jake.” You were puddy in his hands completely forgetting the wedding reception going on around you.

“Words darlin’.” He kissed your forehead, “Can’t read that gorgeous mind of yours.” He pulled back waiting on your response. Searching your face for anything.

You leaned up to him on your tippy toes knowing your words were less than savory for the guests around you, “Because Jake. It made me want to rip that very nice form-fitting jacket right off of you.” Nibbling at his ear lobe you heard a grumble rip from his chest.

“And you can’t do that and say that here.” He pulled you back grabbing at your sides cursing under his breath. You caught the goosebumps that rippled across his neck. This time you got to grin right at him. A gotcha right back at him per say, “Jesus. Where did that come from?” His wide eyes looked around seeing if anybody had noticed the heated interaction.

You shrugged, “Always been here Jake.” Your confidence only grew as you watched him literally melt into your words. Surely, some nasty things were crossing his minds. Because they certainly were yours.

“Angel.” He groaned placing his hands on either side on your face, “We’re not going to the after party, right?” He kissed you for the second time. Not as desperate but just as hungry. You were it. His endgame. Everything he needed.

You laughed, “We have to go to the after-party Jake.” You had to give him credit for trying. And he’d certainly be

He sighed, “Of course.” He didn’t want to dampen your mood, so he smiled nodding right along.

“But you’re coming back to my place after that.” You winked pulling his tie, so he’d lean down and kiss you once more. You were certain you would never tire of his lips on yours.

“If you insist.” He played right along.

“Oh, I insist.” You ran your hands up his back as you hugged him.

He savored everything about the moment. This was it. His happiness, “Your wish is my command Angel.” He pulled your head up before leaning down and kissing your forehead, “Now let’s get on out there and dance. Allie’s been staring for a little too long.”

You grinned taking his hand, “It’s a deal cowboy.”

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becauseimswagman1 · 2 months

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Toxic Love

A/N:.... it's been forever since I've posted...I'M BACK WITH THE SMUT GUYS. Don't be afraid to comment either!!!

A/N#2: he got some pretty teeth y'all

This for you @itsbackwoodsbby 🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾

(She wrote something for me. Gotta get her backkkk)

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To say that you and your man are a toxic couple is downplaying just how toxic y’all actually are. He cheats and cheats, yet you stay. “Why?” is the million-dollar question. You could say you love him, but you could also say you love the money he makes. See your man is a drug dealer, but not just any ole drug dealer, he’s feared. He’s not to be messed with in any way, so what made you finally get his lying and cheating ass back? The most recent bitch he cheated on you with.

Her name is whor- Hazel. Hazel been tryna get at your man forever. You’re surprised he even fucked that fuck-anything-that-walks, homewrecking ass girl, but niggas will be niggas you guess. You’ve come to realize that they’ll fuck anyone and anything.

Anyways, you got him back by fucking his fine ass, big dick-having-ass cousin. Guess it really does run the family, but the dick was trash and the head was bomb, but if your man asks then all of it was better than him.

You could only imagine how crazy he acted once he found out, but he was almost done with his drops for the day so you’d find out in a minute or two.

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

You hear a car door slam and shortly after the front door slam too, “Ayo what the fuck am I hearing bout you fucking my cousin Dre?!”

You almost laughed, his anger was comical to you. You admit you did act like this when you found out he cheated the first time, but as smart as he is… you figured he would’ve figured everything out by now.

You shrugged at him, “Oh they talking about that already? Damn word get around fast. And don’t be slamming the doors in this house!”

“It’s true? You sit up here living this lavish ass lifestyle and you decide to act like one of yo lil friends and fuck anybody with a pulse.”

Okay, he was doing too much now. It’s not like you slept with half the motherfuckers in his gang unlike someone (Hazel).

You stood up off the couch, “Nah, Trevante fuck you! I don’t know why you tryna make me out to be some type of hoe but that shit not gone fly. Yo black ass acting like I fucked yo brother or something. It was just your cousin so back up off me.”

He walked over to you and got in your face, “Tell me that shit not true. Tell me it’s not so I can go pop the nigga that told me.”

Damn, did he have the grill in today? Top AND bottom too? Mhmmmm.

You stared up into his eyes as innocently as you could while he looked down at you, “Sorry baby, but… it’s true. And it was sooo good, too. He fucked me way better than you.”

God, he’s wearing the cologne that makes you soak your panties in record time.

“Oooooh now he’s better than me? I’ll murk that nigga right now, blood or not. Keep on testing me, ma.”

He’s gonna fuck you up. He’s no longer mad at the get back, but the thoughts of another man fucking you better and that you could possibly leave him because of that haunt him now.

“I’ll be here to wash your clothes when you get back. Just don’t come in here dripping blood and shit. It’ll be a bitch to get out our new carpets.”

Trevante could see how unphased you were about this whole thing and it only pissed him off more. You gave away your pussy and that belonged to him.

He grabbed your neck and got real close to your face, “Say he’s better than me again, and watch what happens to you.”

You smirked, this is exactly what you wanted, “He’s better than you. Maybe this will teach you not to fuck with dirty ass hoes.”

He chuckled, tightening his hold on your neck a little, “So you mad I fucked one of yo lil friends?”

“She’s not-” He cut you off, “Right. She’s not. But you really went out and did what you did as a get back? You put on your big girl panties and took a shot at me? That’s a mistake, baby.”

He pecked your lips then threw you over his shoulder, “You gone regret that shit.”

“Baby-”

“Nah, don’t “baby” me now. You was just talking all that shit, it’s time to put your money where your mouth is.”

Trevante took you to your shared room and sat you down on your feet then grabbed your neck again, making you look at him, “You gonna be good for Daddy?”

“Mhm.” you avoided his heated stare. You knew what he had in store for you was gone have you acting right...for now.

He tightened his grip on your neck, “Words ma, or you not gone get what you deserve.”

“I’ll be daddy’s good gir-” he adjusted your head to look at him in his eyes, “Good what?”

“I’ll be daddy’s good little slut.”

He pecked your lips and let your neck go, “Take your panties off. Ass up, face down.”

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paintyoureyeswithavividmind · 9 months

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close to home | chapter fifty seven

plot: the reader and Daryl work on the bridge

series masterlist

Pairing: Eventual Daryl Dixon x f!reader Word Count: 3,586 Warnings: violence, blood, typical twd A/N: thank you for reading!!!

As much as you were hoping you and Daryl earned a bit of downtime for all the work at the Sanctuary, there was apparently no such thing in this world. With the bridge out, work needed to be done. With Maggie’s deal with Rick, the saviors supplied most of the workforce. Still, Rick needed support.

Setting up camp was the most annoying part, because each collective community was brought together for the first real time. There’d been smaller gatherings for trade, but nothing like this. And then there was the perimeter and setting up guard duty and watch rotations for the herd. It was a lot of work. Thankfully due to the amount of bodies you had, and because Rick wouldn’t task you with anything that would take you out of the camp, you were to help run it alongside Daryl, Carol, and Ezekiel.

You still didn’t know if you were pregnant; Jesus hadn’t been able to find a test and you were too afraid to know the answer anyway. So you pretended the problem didn’t exist, and wouldn’t let Daryl go find a test. You knew it was ridiculous, but you just didn’t want to know yet.

Luckily for you, two weeks after working on the bridge, you got your answer.

“I’m not pregnant,” You said to Daryl.

He was getting dressed for the day, and froze at your words. “Ya sure?”

“Very.”

“Oh.”

You sighed softly and slide your hands around his waist and into his back pockets. “You’re upset.”

“Nah…”

“You can tell me the truth, I won’t be mad.”

Daryl looked down at you and nodded. “‘M upset. Was gettin’ used to the idea, is all.”

“Okay…” You trailed off. “I’m sorry you’re upset. But Daryl I don’t think you should get your hopes up for something like this. If I’m infertile cause of the miscarriage-”

“I don’ blame ya for that, ain’ mad ‘bout that.”

“I know,” You pressed a hand against his chest. “I know you aren’t, honey. But if I am, kids aren’t going to happen with me. If that’s something you want…” You trailed off, not able to finish speaking.

“Ain’ want ‘em enough to not be with ya.” Daryl said, grabbing your hand. “If it don’ happen, it don’.”

“But if it does,” You said, “If it does, it does. I was a little disappointed too.”

“We take whatever comes at us then?”

You nodded and stood on your toes to kiss him. “Yes. And right now, we’ve got to build a damn bridge.”

***

Another week passed by quickly, and the building of the bridge progressed nicely. Spending so much time around family was nice. You saw Carol and Ezekiel every day, Aaron, Tara, and Enid. Siddiq was at the camp, and even Henry. With the exception of the saviors, you would’ve been the happiest you’d been in a long time.

Despite the long and grueling days, you and Daryl came together at the end of every night. It was always slow, and he had to keep you quiet. To you, it seemed like he was purposely trying to get you pregnant. But you didn’t care; he was your husband, and you loved being with him, you wanted it every night just the same, and you knew this was him coming to terms with what you already expected. You were most likely infertile, and children were out of the question. So you opened your legs for him every night and let him make love to you because you needed the reassurance, and he needed to know.

And it made your days more interesting. You began to play a little game with him, and although he told you to stop every time, you knew he loved it.

So you smiled as you passed him that morning, and grabbed his hand and pulled him down so you could whisper in his ear. “I was thinking tonight you can put me on my knees, bend me over. Might not be able to keep me quiet, though.”

His face immediately turned red and he shook his head. “Get outta here with that crap,” He gruffed, which only made you laugh, and his blush worsen.

You didn’t see him again until a group of saviors showed up, ones to replace a few that had walked off. When you saw Justin in the group you wanted to scream and demand Rick send him back. But you needed the people, you needed the bridge, and everyone was putting up with crap like this.

Still, you found Daryl quickly in the med tent.

“Daryl?” You asked as you stepped in. Enid was wrapping his hand. “What happened?”

“Fuckin’ smacked it with the hammer.”

You chuckled and walked over to him. “We can go to the bank after lunch and you can dip it in the cold water for a while.”

He gruffed and didn’t say anything.

“All set, try not to hit it again,” Enid said, which made you laugh.

As you and Daryl walked out, he turned to look at you. “What ya need, darlin’?”

You smiled at the one and only pet name he called you, but then remembered why you were there in the first place. “Justin is here. I’ll be fine with him here. I can handle it. But I figured I’d let you know so you don’t fly off the handle.”

Daryl sighed and looked around. “I can send him back.”

You shook your head. “We need the help. Besides, I’ve got my machete know. If he fucks with me, I’ll take his balls.”

Daryl chuckled and shook his head. “Crazy girl.”

“I’m gonna head back over to Carol. Come find me when we break for lunch. I wanna eat with you, old man.”

***

For the first day, Justin left you alone. He stared, and sent you a few winks when you met his eyes, but it was just that. You didn’t tell Daryl because you knew he’d freak, and the bridge was more important than an idiot sending you a few winks.

He’d only been here three days when he finally approached you.

“Rumor has it you married Dixon,” Justin said, pointing towards your ring. “Tell me, how does divorce work in this world? Or do you technically have two husbands?”

You grimaced and turned around to face him. “Hello Justin, such a pleasure seeing you again.”

“Bet the only pleasure you get. Where is Daryl anyway?” He looked around. “I don’t see him around to help you.”

“Think again, asshole.”

You turned when you heard Daryl’s voice, who immediately put himself between you and Justin. You grabbed your machete handle, your other hand on the gun strapped to your leg, just in case.

“Ah, there’s the big man,” Justin said. “I was just having a chat with (Y/N).”

“Yeah, heard it all.” Daryl said. “I don’ wanna see ya near her again, ya hear me? Ya don’ look at her, ya don’ talk to her, don’ even think about her!”

Justin smiled and looked back at you. “That’ll be hard. I think about her every night. Ironic, don’t yout think?”

Daryl grabbed Justin by the shirt and before he could throw the first punch, you grabbed his arm. “He’s just doing it to get a rise out of you, Daryl.” You said.

“Don’ fuckin’ talk to her, ya hear me? She won’ be able to stop me next time.”

“But I’ll be able to think about her, right?”

Before Daryl could hit him, you put yourself between the two and pushed Justin backwards. He hadn’t been expecting how quick you were, and he stumbled slightly.

“Yeah, sure,” You said, pushing him again. “You could think about me all night long, Justin. You could think about fucking me all night long,” You pushed him for the last time. “But it won’t be the real thing. Someone else will be doing that to me. Now get back to fucking work!”

Justin smiled with annoyance and then walked away. You shook your head and turned back to Daryl. He was visibly angry, and you knew he had a lot of steam to blow off. You grabbed his hand, rubbing the tension away before bringing it up to your lips.

“I know it’s hard but you have to ignore what he says.” You said.

“Nah, not when it comes to ya.”

You kissed his hand again. “Wanna go blow off some steam? Bet no one will notice if we sneak off for a quickie.”

At least, he cracked a smile and you were sucessful. “Ain’ ya got work you could be doin’ right now?”

You stood on your toes to kiss his cheek. “Yes, but I would much rather play.”

***

Justin left you along for the next few days, but you knew he kept his glances. And you knew he was talking about you to the saviors. You heard a rumor of yourself about having a threesome with Negan and Sherry, which made your heart ache in more than one way. But of course you ignored it, and prayed Daryl hadn’t heard it.

Whenever the two of them were in the same vicinity, you made sure to keep an eye on them. But other than a few gestures, Justin didn’t say much to Daryl, and your husband kept his distance. But you knew he was dying to kick Justin’s ass and as much as you wanted to see it, you would rather it didn’t happen.

On one particularly hot morning, you were helping Henry hand out water. He had asked you too, because when you were at the Kingdom you taught him how to use a machete, and you’d been close ever since. He reminded you a lot of Carl, which was both beautiful and agonizing.

Daryl and Aaron were working together on a part of the bridge, and you overheard Aaron telling Daryl he would be a great dad someday--which meant Daryl must’ve told him.

“Hey handsome,” You said as you approached Daryl and Aaron. “And double handsome. I’ll let you two figure out which one is which.”

Aaron laughed as he stood up. “I’ve missed you at Alexandria, when are you coming home?”

“Probably after the bridge, but we haven’t decided yet.” You said. “How’s Gracie?”

Aaron smiled widely and launched into a story about his daughter, and you loved the shining look in his eyes. You wondered if Daryl would have that look one day. But then you shook that thought from your head. He wouldn’t. He said he was okay with it.

“You guys want some water?” Henry asked after Aaron finished his story.

“I’d love some,” Aaron said.

Henry filled the cup up for him, and then you made him fill another one up for Daryl. If you didn’t make sure he was taking care of himself, who would?

“I’ll see you guys later,” You said, reaching down to ruffle Daryl’s hair--which he promptly swatted your hand away.

You and Henry walked down the line, offering some water and chatting with a few other people. You switched off so he could carry the jug off water on his request, because it would help him get stronger. So you couldn’t exactly say no to that, even if you felt bad for having a kid carry it.

Sadly for you, you didn’t notice Justin until it was too late, and Henry was tapping him on the shoulder. When he turned around, he smiled immediately when he realized it was you.

“Want some water?”

“Yeah, thanks,” He said, taking the cup. He drank quickly and when he finished he looked at you as he licked his lips. “Hmm, so wet.”

You cringed and wrapped your arm around Henry, thanking God the little boy didn’t understand Justin’s crude remark.

“Wait, hold up, I’m still thirsty.” Justin said.

“No, no. There’s not enough. You can’t.” Henry said. You tried to jump in before Justin could do anything, but you weren’t fast enough.

“Give it a rest, kid,” He said as he shoved him to the ground.

“Hey!” You yelled, “What the hell is wrong with you?”

But Henry was up quick with his stick, and in a second, Justin was lying on the ground. You couldn’t help but laugh loudly. You and Henry grabbed the water jug and went to move away, but you heard footsteps and felt a hand wrap around your arm tightly and tug you backward.

“Ow, let go of me!” You yelled, trying to get your arm out of Justin’s grasp. You heard Henry yelling to defend you when you saw Daryl coming up behind Justin, and grabbing the same arm that held yours.

“Let her go, now.” Daryl said.

Justin snorted and shoved you away. You tripped over Henry’s stick and your head hit the wood with a smack.

You didn’t need to look to know that Daryl threw the first punch, and you grimaced as you stood up. “Henry, back up, now.” You told the kid. Justin was on the ground in a pile of sand and you walked over to Daryl.

Your husband grabbed you and tried to block the sand from hitting your face, but it hit you anyway and your eyes stung. You shuffled a little bit at the loss of vision and started wiping them with your shirt sleeve. You heard a body slam into the ground and through teary eyes you saw Daryl and Justin in a fight.

“Hey!” Aaron yelled, trying to push through but one of Justin’s friends was blocking him.

You grabbed a spare piece of wood and lined up your shot to hit Justin with it when an arm wrapped around your waist and dropped you to the ground. Your face hit the a pile of wood and you felt blood flow from your nose and from somewhere else. It was some other savior, one you didn’t really recognize and you glared as you stood up, watching as he was going to help Justin.

Before the man could take two steps, you jumped onto his back and wrapped an arm around his neck. You used your other hand to grab a fist full of his hair.

“Stupid bitch,” The man grunted and you pressed your arm further into his neck.

At this point, Daryl and Justin were on their feet, and Aaron and the savior were about to start a fight of their own. Your fingers twitched in anger and you dropped your feet down from around his waist, pulling his body backwards with your weight until he fell. You pulled out your machete and dropped so that one foot pressed against his right wrist, and you had your knee digging into his chest. You pressed the machete against his neck. You had him pinned.

“Stop! Everybody stop!” Rick was yelling. “Enough! Brother, enough!”

You took a second to glance at Daryl, who must’ve had Justin pinned by the neck due to the color of his face. But now Daryl had his hand wrapped around Justin’s shirt, and another fist ready for a blow.

“Let them go. Daryl, (Y/N), now.”

You sighed and pulled back the machete. But you leaned down close the man’s face. “You fucking touch me again I’ll kill you. Just like all your other little fucking friends.” You spat blood onto the man’s face.

“(Y/N)!”

You got off the man and put your machete away, ignoring the way that Rick was glaring at you. You wiped blood from your face onto your arm and you looked at Daryl, who was still fuming and pacing back and forth.

Someone grabbed your arm and you looked to see Carol, who was looking between you and Henry. She mouthed a thank you before wrapping an arm around her shoulder.

“We need to get her to the med tent, now, get out of the way.” She snapped at the people still on the bridge.

That got Daryl’s attention, and he finally turned to you. “Shit,” You heard him mumble as you passed him.

“I’m fine,” You reassured him, but he followed you anyway.

Enid was waiting for you when you got there, having heard the fight and knew someone would need help. Carol helped you sit down and Enid worked away at cleaning off the blood from your face. “You’ll need a few stitches by your eyebrow, your nose looks okay and so does you lip.” She told you.

“Who was it?” Daryl asked no one in particular. “Who fuckin’ did that to you?”

“The guy with the red hair, Johnny, or something,” Carol said with her arms crossed. Daryl sighed and headed towards the tent opening.

“Daryl! Get your ass back here, now!” You yelled.

“Nah, Imma go beat the shit outta him.”

“Daryl Dixon I said get back here now!” You yelled, pushing Enid’s hand away and standing up. “Your wife is bleeding and needs stitches, so you’re going to sit next to me until it’s done!”

He finally stopped and shook his head, but turned around regardless. You heard Carol chuckle as you sat back down.

“Take my hand, thank you very much,” You said as Daryl sat next to you, doing as you told him. “You’re welcome for taking on Johnny or whoever the hell that was. It would’ve been them against you.” You said before looking at Enid, giving her a nod.

Carol laughed lightly and shook her head. “You two are ridiculous.”

Daryl grunted and you ignored his grump attitude as you squeezed his hand while Enid started stitching the gash above your eyebrow. You felt him squeeze your hand back.

Enid was halfway through the stitches when Rick walked into the tent and came up to you. “Are you okay?”

“Better than when I got stabbed.” You said, lightly wincing. Enid reassured you it was almost over.

“What happened?”

“Fuckin’ Justin. I told ya the asshole was no good!” Daryl said, dropping your hand to stand up. “Been harassin’ (Y/N) since day one, and pushed Henry to the ground. Pushed her too. I want him gone!”

“Daryl, we only have a few more days.” Rick said.

“So that asshole get a free pass? Is that it? What about the man that did that to her?” Daryl pointed at you. Enid was layering on an ointment over your cuts, and a few bandages to help pull the skin back together.

“I don’t like it either, but we’re in a rush to get the work done. He’s strong. The saviors are half our workforce and we’ve had too many walk off already.”

“Yeah, cause that’s who they are. Some of them ain’t ever gonna fall in line just cause ya say so.” Daryl spat back.

You and Carol shared a look as Enid finally finished fixing your face.

“Daryl’s right,” Carol chimed in. “These people have never had to live together. We can’t expect them to just forget what’s happened.”

“It’s hasn’t been easy. I know. It’s won’t be, not for a while, but it’s not about forgetting. It’s about moving ahead, all of us, together. We keep doing that, they’ll see we’re all on the same side.” Rick said.

“Are we, though? Are we on the same side, Rick?” Daryl asked as he came over to you, helping you stand up. You took the water Enid offered you, and drank it quickly. She then handed you some bread from Alexandria.

“Well, you tell me.” Rick said.

Daryl’s arm wrapped around your waist and he took the water canteen from you. “Thing is, man, I’ve been tryin’ to. But ya don’ seem to want to hear it. And I ain’ lettin’ my wife pay for it. Any one of ‘em touches her again, I’m killin’ ‘em. You won’ be able to stop me next time.”

Daryl forced you to talk forward and you followed him out of the tent and into the hot air. You glanced at him as he led you over to your shared tent and followed him inside. He was pacing immediately and chewing on his fingernail.

You chewed slowly on the bread Enid gave you before you split it in half and offered the other piece of him, which he refused. You set it aside for him to eat after. He never ate when he was hungry.

“Daryl.”

“Daryl!”

“What?”

“Sit. Let me look at your face.”

He sighed but sat down next to you, and you carefully looked at the bruises on his face. Justin only seemed to get one good punch right below his eye, and you carefully touched it to. It didn’t seem too deep, and there was no blood. But it would leave a nasty bruise.

Daryl grabbed your face with his hands. “‘M so sorry.”

“It’s not your fault.”

“Shoulda dealt with him a long time ago, first time he said somethin’ to ya.”

“That’s very sweet, honey, but I asked you not to and you were respecting me.” You told him, letting him look over your face to make sure you were okay. “You were just looking for an excuse to knock him on his ass, be honest.”

He snorted and gently pressed his finger to the cut on your lip. “It hurt much?”

“Stings. I’m okay. I’ve been through worse.”

“Don’ remind me.”

You smiled and kissed his hand before it left your face. “Thank you. For what you did. You didn’t have to, but thank you.”

He shook his head. “Don’ gotta thank me, darlin’.”

#daryl x y/n #daryl dixion x reader #daryl fanfiction #the walking dead daryl #daryl dixon x reader #twd #daryl dixon #daryl x reader #daryl twd #daryl x you

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nobody-expects-the-inquisitorius · 11 months

Text

TBB Incorrect Quotes, Part 13

Crosshair: *sighs* Wrecker: You bored? Crosshair: Yeah. Wrecker: Wanna start drama for no reason? Crosshair: I thought you’d never ask.

Tech: Phee and I are no longer dating. Phee: Tech, that’s a horrible way of telling people we’re married.

Omega: This is a safety pin. *cuts off end* Omega: It is now a danger pin.

Echo: *trying to get five seconds of sleep* Tech, poking Echo’s arm: Echo. Echo. Echo. Echo. Echo: WHAT? Tech: …We’re out of Capri Suns—

Hunter: I didn’t know that air fryers are a real thing. Used to think that they were made up by the internet as a funny joke and that their purpose was to “fry air”. Omega: WAIT, BUT IT FRIES THE AIR TO FRY THE FOOD?? Hunter: I DIDN’T KNOW IT WAS A KITCHEN APPLIANCE, MY FIRST ASSUMPTION WAS SOMETHING AKIN TO AN AIR CONDITIONER! Crosshair: IT’S NOT LIKE AN AIR CONDITIONER???? Tech: You guys clearly don’t own an air fryer.

Crosshair: If I say yes am I joining a cult? Tech: Possibly. Crosshair: I’m in.

*the Squad cleaning up* Tech: Pick up the nearest piece of trash and throw it away. Echo, to Crosshair: Aight, which bin do you wanna go in—

Wrecker: *hiding something in his coat* I think we should adopt another kid! Hunter: No. Wrecker: Why not? Hunter: Because when you say “kid”, you mean “cat”, and we already have fifteen of those. Wrecker: *unzips coat* Sixteen.

Tech: Okay. Hypothetically speaking, how mad would you be if I burned a hot pocket so badly it could probably fall off a ten-story building and be completely fine? Hunter: Tech, what did you do? Tech: Take a guess.

Crosshair: PEASANT. I REQUIRE SUSTENANCE. Echo: You know there are other ways to say you want McDonalds. Crosshair: FOUL PLEBEIAN. YOU DARE SPEAK AGAINST ME— Echo: *sigh* What do you want? Crosshair: Chicken nuggets please.

Omega: Tech, what if there are monsters? Tech: Don’t worry, we’re top of the food chain. Much later… Omega, lying awake at night: I am the monster.

Omega: Wow, I really think I would’ve gotten along with young Crosshair! Crosshair: I know. That’s why I decided to change everything about my life.

Crosshair: *clicks pen* Tech: *clicks pen in response* Hunter: Stop that. Crosshair: Stop what? Hunter: You’re talking about me in Morse code! Crosshair: Yes, that’s what we doing. In our very limited time, we took a class on a very outdated, very unnecessary form of communication just so we could talk about you in front of you. Congrats, you figured us out! *later* Tech, to Echo: That’s actually exactly what we were doing.

Crosshair: It's not like I try to blow things up, exactly. It just sort of happens. You've got to admit though, fire is fascinating.

Hunter: Can I stay with you tonight? Wrecker: Sure. What happened? Hunter: Well, Crosshair and I got into a fight, and now he's been watching “How to Get Away with Murder” ever since. Wrecker: … Hunter: … Wrecker: … Hunter: I don’t feel safe anymore.

Wrecker: I want a bf. Tech: Do you mean best friend, boyfriend or bread feast? Because you’re being really vague here.

Echo: According to the footage here, you shook the vending machine and when the shake alarm went off, you punched the glass and broke it. Wrecker: …I was hungry.

Tech: *venting endlessly to Crosshair about his week* Crosshair, every once in a while: *in a monotone* Wow, that is so wild.

Crosshair: People always shoot down my ideas and I’m sick of it. Two sentences in and everyone’s always shouting “what the fuck? that’s illegal!” and “you can’t do that!”. Like, c'mon, let me talk!

Wrecker: No problemo! Wrecker, internally: But it was all problemo.

Crosshair: We’ll get back into there or die trying. Hunter: No one’s dying. Crosshair: Not with that attitude.

Omega, over radio: Testing. Testing. Tech, can you hear me? Tech, standing next to Omega: I’m standing right here. Omega: You’re coming through good and loud. Tech: ‘Cause I’m standing right here.

Hunter: Are you packed for the trip? Wrecker: Yup. Hunter: Then where are your bags? Wrecker: All I’m bringing is a good attitude and a sense of adventure. Hunter: A change of underwear might be nice.

Crosshair: All of your existences are confusing. The Squad: How so? Crosshair: Your presence is annoying, but the thought of anything bad happening to any of you upsets me.

Crosshair: BE A BETTER PERSON! Hunter: WHY?! Crosshair: BECAUSE SOMEONE NEEDS TO HAVE MORALS IN THIS FAMILY, AND IT SURE AS FUCK AIN'T GONNA BE ME, SWEETHEART!

Crosshair: My life is a mess. Echo: Go get a beer. Crosshair: I don’t want a beer. Echo: Who said it was for you?

Omega: I believe in you, Tech! Tech, to himself: God, I must suck. The nicest thing Omega can think to say to me is that she doesn't doubt my existence.

Echo: Do you see yourself as a glass half-full or glass half-empty kind of person? Hunter: Half-full, definitely. Hunter: Half-full and constantly rising. Hunter: Soon the water will escape its container and consume us all.

Hunter: So we're gathered here today for a very special reason and I think you'll all agree with me here. Hunter: And if you don't well then fuck you. Hunter: I'm looking at you, Crosshair, you jealous mop.

Echo: working in a flower shop and minding his own business Crosshair, storming into the store and slapping $20 on the counter: HOW DO I PASSIVE-AGGRESSIVELY SAY “FUCK YOU” IN FLOWER???

Wrecker: Can I borrow five dollars? Echo: If you’re only borrowing it, does that mean you’ll pay me back? Wrecker: Of course. Wrecker: Not directly, but with my love and affection. Echo: So that’s a no.

Omega: Is Crosshair always like this when he loses? Tech: Oh, yes. You should've been there for the Great Jenga Tantrum of 22 BBY. Crosshair: You bumped that table and you know it!

Crosshair: You don’t deserve me. Hunter: At your worst or your best? Tech: I don’t have a worst. Tech: Because you’re already at your worst?

*out grocery shopping* Wrecker: *takes a free sample twice* Wrecker: Robbery and Fraud. I am a Rebel.

Crosshair: If you don't stop talking, I'm going to jump out of that window. Wrecker ...We're on the ground floor. Crosshair: I know but I want a dramatic exit.

Omega: Okay, two person huddle. Echo: You can't huddle with two people. This is just a hug.

Echo: Is he stupid? Crosshair: Yes, but he prefers to be called Hunter.

Wrecker: Can we get a birthday cake? Hunter: It’s not your birthday. Wrecker: The cake won’t know!

Echo: I'm a nice person, but I'm about to start throwing rocks at people.

Echo: We all have our demons. Hunter, grabbing Crosshair: This one’s mine!

#tbb incorrect quotes #incorrect bad batch quotes #the bad batch #tbb #star wars #incorrect quotes #techphee

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meshlasolus · 3 months

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The Winner Takes It All

Episode 5

Pairing: Finnick Odair x Tribute(OC)!Reader

Chapter Warnings: Canon typical violence, reader has terrible anxiety, and Finnick is sweet about it. Mentions of bullying, and thoughts of death.

Chapter Summary: Scoring is one of the most important parts of the Hunger Games, and you have to score higher than a certain competitor in order to receive sponsors.

Word Count: 3.9k

Imagine being afraid of swimming pools lmaooo couldn't be me *internalizes my eight year old self's irrational fear of sharks in swimming pools*

“Can you sit down? You’re making us nervous,” Lukas jokingly asked Arbin, who was pacing in front of the screen as the scores were beginning to be read off. It had only been one tribute before the man started getting antsy, fluttering about the room as if there was any method to his madness.

“They called you Mercy?”

You huffed, having not even said a word in this conversation. You nodded with a dull look on your face, and Lukas tried his best to undo what he’d said. It was random, completely strange how it all came about, and yet?

Finnick was more than annoyed. He didn’t know where to direct his irritation, but he knew he shouldn’t direct it at you.

“She didn’t do anything wrong, it’s just a nickname,” Lukas waved his hands in the air, his attempt to de-escalate the situation falling flat while tensions arose.

“It can be used against her,” Finnick argued. He wasn’t gaining any ground either, because the explanations were too complicated. Lukas couldn’t see what was wrong with a simple nickname, but he would if the effects of it were to play out.

“They like her, it isn’t like that.”

“And how would you know that?” Finnick was so tired of mentoring and losing tributes. This was the year he’d keep one, but it all depended on their willingness. Lukas can’t see that. “How many times have you been in that arena, huh? How many times have you been the product of what happens in there?”

Lukas didn’t answer that time. Perhaps he’d been out of line, but he didn’t understand the harm in a well meaning gesture. Surely a nickname meant you were well thought of by the careers. He understood though, in the end… he’s never been in a situation where it could be bad, and Finnick has. That’s the difference. Theory and experience.

“If they start spreading that nickname around, she’s going to be seen as weak. The one who can’t kill another tribute. The one who you can go after first, knowing she’s not a real threat.”

You still remained silent. You should have just hit that girl from seven. She would’ve taken it. At least you wouldn’t be in this position. It was astounding, how many times you could mess up, how many imperfections you could reveal, and how many things were not in your favor. That’s what the hunger games were all about, weren’t they? Whoever has the most favor?

“Look, there’s nothing I can do to stop it. I don’t see the point in getting angry about something uncontrollable,” Lukas finally replied, settling back into the couch next to you, your gaze on the ground as the words kept being exchanged around you. “It’s not like she did anything wrong.”

“No,” Finnick conceded, because, no… you didn’t do anything wrong. You opted not to start beef with another tribute before the games started. It could have been seen as a strategy, something to be praised for… but that nickname. It could cost you everything you’ve been working for. No citizen wants to sponsor a weak tribute that shows mercy. “She didn’t. Whoever started this is who we need to be keeping an eye on. If there’s underlying tension within the careers, it could mean a bad ally.”

“E-estelle.”

They both turned to you, Lukas with some confusion, and Finnick with a raised brow of intrigue and curiosity.

“She s-started it. Don’t think she l-likes me.”

For Lukas, it started to make sense. She started the name, she watched you like a hawk, scrutinizing more than anyone else in the group when jokes would be made. It didn’t seem at first as though she wanted to turn them against you, but maybe that wasn’t the plan at all. Maybe it was just to make it seem harmless, as if nothing could come from it. Hell, it’s what he had believed until now. Estelle was likely jealous of your ability. She was likely upset from the way you fit into her group without saying a single word. She wants to be the victor, everyone does… But she was handed the assurance that she had the best chance of all the female tributes, and now that’s gone. It’s all she can do now to try and create chaos for the person that title now belongs to.

“The girl from one, right?” Finnick had done his homework. Part of expecting a victor is making sure you know everything about the enemies your future victor will face. He knows that she’s lethal, and she’s good with a knife, maybe even a long blade. Hearing that she’s your opposer does him no favors.

You nodded to him, seeing how irritated he looked again. You knew he wasn’t upset at you, but this had to be your fault. You wanted to do everything Finnick wanted, because all he wanted from you in return was your survival. You were ruining everything whenever you acted out of selfish intention like this. Should have made the strike, should have won the match.

“I’m s-sorry.”

Your voice was soft, but not weary. You didn’t mean for all of these things to continuously happen, but they did. And Finnick, for the most part, was bearing the brunt of it all.

“Don’t be sorry,” he huffed, sitting beside you.

“I can’t go b-back and fix it.”

“It’s okay. Here’s what I want you to do,” he placed a hand on your shoulder, getting you to look at him. “You’re going into your evaluation today. You’ll have ten minutes to show them what you can do. I want you to go in there and put on a show, alright? Don’t hold anything back.”

“A s-show?” You knew why he was referring to it as that, but maybe a further explanation was required.

“Give them what they want to see. As long as you score higher than Estelle on the board, you’ll be fine, okay? If she says anything, it’ll just look like a lesser tribute trying to smear a better one.”

You nodded. Yes. Okay. This was going to work. This had to work, because if it didn’t, the people would believe her. If she’s the better tribute, she has the power. You have to take that power away from her.

“Lukas, that goes for you, too.”

Of everything to be thankful for in life, right now, all you could think of was ‘thank God I’m not in district 12.’

Because even waiting for districts one through three was hard enough. Your nervous energy was not well contained, having to sit still for so long and contemplate what you were going to do. Finnick tried to give you ideas on what you could show them, but he wasn’t allowed to make the decisions for you. That relied completely on the tributes. Whatever they decided to show, was what would be judged and scored.

When they called for Lukas over the loudspeaker, your heart started racing. Ten minutes, and then it’s your turn. Maybe you wished you’d been in a latter district after all, the anxiety of being next was racking your brain of any other thoughts.

You closed your eyes and tried to feel calm. A deep breath in and out should have helped, but after a few seconds the gut turning feeling was back, and you had to try and find a way to rid yourself of it.

Ten minutes should have been longer. It flew past you when you wished it to last.

Your name being called sent chills through you, but you didn’t let it show. You stood to your feet with confidence, leaving the room of tributes and facing the music for yourself. The large gathering of game managers, lead by this year’s maker, staring down and making their assumptions already. You weren’t going to give them anything but reason to like- nay, love you.

“Mercedes Blythe, district 4,” you shouted strongly, receiving the attention of the group.

“You have ten minutes, you may begin.”

You nodded, turning to the items available. How can I show my strength in a way that will stand out from the others?

You immediately went for the rope, creating a small woven net that could house one of the heavily weighted balls on the stand. You quickly settled one into the net and tied it shut so the ball had no chance of falling out in the process of your little ‘show.’

You tied a small metal block onto the long end of the rope, using the weight to get it up and over the ceiling rafter. You stepped back behind one of the beams of the room to brace yourself before you started to hoist the ball into the air. That ball was easily a hundred pounds or heavier, which caught the attention of the men watching. You are indeed as strong as you look, if not much stronger.

Once it’s high enough to be relatively out of sight, you tie the rope onto the beam, temporarily holding it there while you go for the body of the plastic dummy on the other side of the room. You stand it up beneath your ‘trap’ and make sure it stands securely on it’s own before rushing back to the rope on the beam.

You look up to the men in the viewing box, seemingly very intrigued and excited based on where they think this is going.

You untie the rope and allow the heavy ball to free fall towards the dummy. When it reaches the plastic, it shatters into several pieces on the ground. In their eyes, that’s as good as any kill in the hunger games. It’s intelligent, it’s strategic, and it takes the strain off of fighting someone physically. It’s quick, it’s efficient, and most of all, it’s something the viewers would want to see.

You return to the middle of the room, hands a bit red and chafed from the rope. You nod to them in thanks, wondering if your remaining time is required to be used. They seem to be utterly satisfied, and nod to you in reply. You take steps to leave, and they don’t stop you, but begin talking more amongst themselves. You hoped that was a good sign.

Later in the night, the time was again spent in the pool, getting used to the depth of the waters, and having an easier time getting into them at all.

You didn’t hesitate to get in this time. You stepped in by yourself and had stopped at the shallow end, waiting for Finnick to finish his lap before meeting you in the middle.

“Look at you go,” he smiled wide, shaking the water from his hair in order to focus easier. His hair wasn’t long, but the part over his eyes dripped heavily with water every time he swam. “Think you can try kicking a little deeper today?”

“Maybe. I’m s-still sore from the e-evaluation.”

“Right, the evaluation,” he started, unable to contain his hidden pride. “I’ve been meaning to tell you since dinner, but I heard what happened today.”

“Heard a-about what?”

“What you did for your evaluation. Gotta say, I would’ve gone for the bricks instead of the ball…” he trailed, seeing your expression change to one of annoyance. “I’m kidding. You did amazing, apparently they were impressed.”

“They were?” you asked with hope. You had sincerely anticipated that they might have been, but hadn’t been sure until now.

“Yeah, I overheard some stuff about how smart you were, too. You struck a lasting impression.”

“That’s w-what we wanted, right?”

“That’s exactly what we wanted.”

You were so happy, your face lit up with the glow of the fluorescents from above hitting the vibrant waters below you. He took in how sweet your smile was, eyes wrinkling at the edges just from how wide it was. It was slightly uneven, your smile… but it was more charming, more personable. It was the kind of unevenness that wasn’t noticeable unless you were really looking, and he was. He was really looking, because he was momentarily enraptured. Had your eyes been this captivating all this time? No, he thinks, because I would have remembered being this deep in someone’s eyes before.

“Let’s just try and kick around some, okay? Just hold onto me and we’ll try and kick from here to the wall.”

Right through the deep end. It was a straight shot across, and not that far. You could do it, it wouldn’t be so hard.

You nodded to him, your happiness made you far more eager to try. If you could impress even the game maker, then you could kick across this pool with the help of your mentor.

You held tight to his shoulders, his hands keeping hold of your elbows in order to make you you didn’t slip away. You were trusting of him, and he didn’t want to break that trust by accidentally letting you fall into the deep water.

“You set the pace, don’t go faster if you don’t feel like you can.”

You found a rhythm that worked, working further away from the shallow end until your feet couldn’t touch if they tried. You tried your best to ignore the feeling of nothingness beneath you, pushing your feet back and forth to make it to the wall.

“Almost there, keep going,” he encouraged, looking back over his shoulder to see that it was within ten feet.

Your breathing started to change when you looked down into the water, seeing the dark at the bottom of the pool beginning to swallow your legs. Your feet stopped moving and you froze, instantly sinking down, if not for the hold Finnick had on you. You clutched tightly to his arms, looking back up and kicking your feet again.

“Hey, you’re doing good, just keep going.”

You felt like crying, the sting of tears behind your eyes as you looked at him, so encouraging and so determined to help. And you kept focusing on that. He’s trying to help, you’re making it difficult. You need to act like you want this or he’ll quit.

“I’m t-trying,” but you started making less ground, because the way you kicked was no longer steady or in any one direction. It was frantic and out of control, and you nearly let go of his arms.

“Think of something good.”

The Sun, my shell collection, my mother, the sand… it’s not working. Finnick, he’s right here, those sea green eyes and gorgeous tan skin. His blonde hair falling in wet curls around his face.

So you keep your eyes aligned with his, and the next thing you know…

“You made it,” he smiled, letting you take one arm from his and grip the wall of the pool. You immediately pulled yourself out, unable to stay in the water after your little freak out. You were happy to have gotten that far, but you needed a break.

“I d-did it.”

“You did,” he crossed his arms over the pavement, coming closer to where you sat yourself down, a decent space between you and the edge. “Wanna try and paddle some?”

“N-no,” you shook your head, the thought of it making you want to jump away. “I d-don’t think I can.”

“It’s okay…” except for the fact that it wasn’t okay, because tomorrow is the last day. There’s no time to swim after this. Tomorrow is the big reveal, the time when the scores are released. It’s the Caesar Flickerman interview. It’s the night before an early morning, where sleep is crucial.

“Finnick?”

The way you said his name so clearly caught his attention, the way it rolled off your tongue without issue or stutter or even a hesitation. He much liked the way it sounded.

“Yeah?”

“T-thank you,” you knew he would probably say something stupid, telling you there was no need, or that it wasn’t necessary to thank him for doing his job. “For trying t-to help me.”

He smiled, reaching out for your hand, settled on the ground in front of you. He took it and gave a small squeeze. It was so reaffirming, his gentle touch. You don’t remember watching his games, but you know that now, seeing him like this, you couldn’t possibly believe he’s capable of harming even the smallest of flies. You don’t know a world where you’ve seen his ability, and you’re content to die in this one, where you never will.

“I promised myself a victor…” … and I hope it’s you.

He doesn’t know why he favors you. In the beginning he felt sorry for you, and wanted to help. After that it became that he understood you to a degree, and didn’t want for you to face the fate he saw so many succumb to. Now? He’s not even quite sure what it is. He likes your company, enjoys the expressions you give him. He likes the little things about you that you’ve shared on different occasions. You collect shells, and you like the color green. You really like pears because of the funny way they’re shaped. He wants to know you more, wants you to survive long enough that he can try to…

But your will is weak, and you believe you can’t possibly survive, though your body is strong and your mind is quick. He believes you can do this, but that isn’t enough. You have to believe it, too.

“Can you get back in for a second? I have an idea.”

“How exciting! I’ve been told that three tributes this year have been given a perfect score!”

The TV speakers were loud in your ears, but you couldn’t find any room to complain.

“My apologies,” he steps out of the way, sitting in a chair farther away from the group.

“District One female, Estelle Votross,” Caesar spoke, reading off of the card in front of him. “With a score of ten.”

You mentally sighed out. There’s no way you scored higher than her. You’d be lucky to even match the score. If you did that, you could at least be grateful.

Finnick seemed to match your level of anxiety, but didn’t show it as much on the outside. He tried to hide it from you, knowing how difficult it is, to sit and wait.

As district three was wrapping up, you were tightening up. Mags had a hand on each of your shoulders. She was hoping for the best, like all else. Even if you didn’t get it, you knew she would be there to console your dreary minds. She was like a slice of home in the hell hole. A ray of light that was shed without a word spoken. You wondered if someday you’d end up like her… but that’s unlikely.

“District four Male, Lukas Artanhour, with a score of…” he smirked, having already seen the score, and holding it out for suspense. “Twelve.”

Everyone’s jaws dropped onto the floor. There was a moment where you completely forgot you had yet to receive your score, you were simply too happy for him.

“Lukas!” Arbin cheered, his hands raising in the air in disbelief. “A perfect score!”

“Don’t get too excited, they said there were two others. The competition must be crazy this year,” Lukas remained humble, because he’d been learning just how quickly your arrogance can become your enemy. He wouldn’t die to stupidity, he was certain of that.

“Even still, you’re at the top of the food chain right now. Remember, that means sponsors.” Finnick was elevated in mood, but settled again quickly when Caesar held up the card with your name.

“District four female, Mercedes Blythe…”

You sat back in your seat, closing your eyes and hearing how loudly your heart beat in comparison to how loud the speakers were. You breathed in deeply, holding it until you heard his next words.

“With another score of twelve.”

Your eyes shot open, and you stood to your feet. You could not have expected it. It didn’t seem possible. You aren’t a career, you have no physical training. Only a life of lifting and loading. Apparently in the capitol, that’s enough to get you a perfect score.

“It’s me!” you shouted, hugging Lukas as he stood to meet you.

He started rambling on about how the arena better watch out for district four. You couldn’t barely hear it, you were too overwhelmed. Everyone around you both was a tornado of joy and excitement, and you had to try and settle yourself down.

You turned to Finnick and didn’t even think twice before wrapping both arms around his shoulders. He embraced you without hesitation, his smile uncontained as he pulled you in closer. The swell of satisfaction he felt was unmatched. He’s had volunteers every year since his own games… and yet the two stood before him were the best he’d ever seen.

“I’m so proud of you,” he spoke under his breath. When he inhaled, the air around you was blissfully sweet. Maybe it was just the moment, but he couldn’t let go of you yet.

It didn’t matter, because Mags and Arbin were surrounding Lukas, giving him the attention he deserved after hearing what they did.

Mags of course glanced over her shoulder, the embrace not yet ended. She smiled, seeing something she hadn’t in a long time.

Finnick was opening up again.

It had been years since she saw the look of sincerity on his face, the relaxed and gentle look that came with his comfort. He’d found comfort in you, that much she could see, and even though she knew it was fleeting, and you may be gone tomorrow, she was happy for him to have it while it lasted. It may be the last time…

‘I told you this was a good idea,’ Finnick laughed, his face soon going back beneath the waves to keep himself afloat.

You were on his back, paddling and kicking through the water, but using him as a deceive of floatation, as if he were a raft of some sort.

‘Finnick, I t-think that maybe I c-can try and swim, now.’

He wasn’t quite sure if he’d heard you right.

‘Are you sure?’ He found the edge of the pool and let you grab on. ‘I don’t want you to try it if you’re not ready.’

You nodded, it was understood that this was a risk, but in your head you felt it was calculated. He’s right here, he won’t let you get hurt.

‘I’m sure.’

And while keeping your eyes focused on him, you pushed away from the wall, falling slightly into the water before kicking your feet and using your arms to cross the water and keep your head above it. You breathed slightly harsher than before, but it was controlled. He followed you, still… keeping a safe distance that he could reach out and grab you at a moment’s notice. But you were doing it. Muscle memory has not failed you after all. It was so deeply ingrained into your mind that you couldn’t swim, but it was not because you lacked the ability, it was because you lacked the emotional strength to conquer your fear of it.

‘Atta girl, just like that. See if you can get to the other side,’ he encouraged, watching closely but keeping his optimistic smile wide on his face.

When you reached the shallow waters, and got to the steps, you sat down on the top one, your expression an abundance of joy. You did it. You swam across the pool. By yourself. You can swim and survive in that arena.

‘I knew you could do it.’

‘I t-think I knew I could, t-too.’

tags(open): @thepassionatereader @i-voluntears @secretsicanthideanymore @mystargirl-interlude @c4ttheart @lilibrn

#finnick odair fluff #finnick odair x reader #finnick x reader #finnick odair x oc #finnick odair #thg finnick #the hunger games #thg series #thg #sam claflin x reader #sam claflin

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eeunoia · 11 months

Text

ENHYPEN Mini Series

E N H Y P E N as Greek Myths

PYGMALION & GALATHEA

pairings: nishimura riki x reader

synopsis: like any other artists, nishimura riki, loves his sketches. but he grew fond of this one sketch of girl he sees in his dream. what will happen if suddenly, she appreared right in front of him? this time in real time, not in dreams land.

word count: 10k

important note: i originally planned to write enhypen as greek gods but then i didn’t find some love stories that i like so i end up using some love stories that aren’t greek gods. also these are like modern versions of greek mythology love stories.

warnings: grammar errors, not proof read, a dead relative. let me know if i missed some!

note📎: you have come to the end of this series. i can’t believe i finished this one already. i hope you guys liked it! it really means a lot to me whenever you let me know what you think about them, re-blogs and comments are well appreciated. btw, i love you guys and thank you for supporting me up until now. have a nice day/night! 🤍

permanent tag-list:

@rubyanne @map-of-border @hwangjangmi @crjwon @love13tter @edensgardenn @simpforniki @classicroyalty @angel-hybrid @bridgebridgebirdiebridge @hime98 @moonsclover @ddeonubaby @yeoungie @acciomylove @mymeloem19 @jvngw0n @dreamyenskz @minamoons @clar-iii @herasalvatore @nyfwyeonjun @rcveribin @yizhoutv @one16core @soobin-chois @kyutiepeachy @chareadingpurposes @hwalllllllelujah @solelyenha @90sni-ki @nourhan-8 @nikipedia07 @yangbreads @drunkjazed @kimmchijjajang @hoonbrry @axartia @all4haru @hiqhkey @sta-rie @purplepuppychild @iceeee @wtfhyuck @tobiosbbyghorl @nikililmj @ayayiiie @moonlightisland @aeyeree

“But seriously, do you think I’m the wrong one? I really think she’s the one at fault!” Ni-ki smirks while listening to his friend ranting. He heard he had a fight with his girlfriend and now he’s here ranting about it.

He offered to accompany him to go buy some art stuff. If only he knew his friend will just be like this, he would’ve gone alone. He can’t focus on picking the right materials with him talking and talking.

“I think you are the wrong one.” he spat just to piss his friend off. The look of betrayal flashes through his face that made Ni-ki laugh before continuing on checking the rack of color pastels in front of him.

“What? Dude! She literally just got mad at me because—”

“Because you didn’t told her you will go out with us yesterday.” Ni-ki finished off his sentence for him. He picks up one pack of pastel of a well known brand and looks throughly over it.

Jungwon sighs, “So? Does she have to know everything that I’m doing?”

Ni-ki shrugs his shoulders off. “I don’t know. Do I look like I’m in a relationship to know?” the sarcasm over his tone made Jungwon shut up for a while. He looked at him with pitiful eyes. It made Ni-ki roll his eyes and look at him, abandoning his pastels for a while.

“Look, hyung. Let me put it this way,” he starts. ”If she goes with her friends and she didn’t inform you at all. You just found out when you saw her story and you’ve been waiting for her text for hours, what would you feel?”

Jungwon furrowed his brows, “I will be worried and pissed.”

Ni-ki nodded his head, “That answers your question on who's at fault.” and he now moves on to go look for a new sketchbook, holding the chosen pastel in one of his hands.

His friend sighs and leaned over a rack before unconsciously picking one, eyes scanning it randomly.

“Fine. I’ll say sorry to her later.”

Ni-ki rolled his eyes and just grabbed his usual sketchbook before walking towards the cashier. He can feel his friend following behind him, he’s not ranting anymore. Probably realized he’s the wrong one.

“Ah right!” Jungwon jogs so he can catch up with Ni-ki. “Do you want to come with me tomorrow? My girlfriend says she will take her best friend with her tomorrow to keep her off from her books.”

Ni-ki falls in line before he glance at his friend with a tired look over his face.

Jungwon’s girl goes to the other school and so they often go on dates during weekends. He doesn’t even know how the two ended up meeting each other.

“I’m not interested.” he coldly rejected it.

Jungwon rolled his eyes, “Come on! One date?”

Ni-ki sighs and shakes his head for his friend. “Dude, why do you guys keep on forcing me to date? I’m all good.”

His friend draws in a strained sigh, “So you will stop spending too much with your sketchbook. Seriously, dude? Are you going after Da vinci’s steps?” he joked and even told him that he will just step out of the store to call his girlfriend. He will wait for him outside.

Ni-ki nodded his head and just waits patiently for his turn. His mind are now slowly floating, getting filled by thoughts of what his friend said. He do spends so much time with his sketchbook. He loves arts and drawing stuff. Ever since he was a child, he’s always been interested about it. But that’s not the only reason.

There’s this girl. She kept on appearing inside his dreams. He don’t remember when it started, but all he knows is that she appeared often that he find her already familiar even if he haven’t met her yet.

He also have a lot of sketch of her face. As times pass by, he almost perfected it. The sketches was always beautiful. Well, she is very beautiful.

He smiled at the counter and muttered a low ‘thanks’ after he grabs his stuff then the change. He slowly walks out of the store and saw his friend smiling slightly while talking to his girlfriend. Ni-ki scoffed, couldn’t believe what he’s currently seeing. He approaches him silently and he signalled wait before finally ending the call.

“Done?” he asks him. Ni-ki gave a short nod before they both walked together to head home.

“Are you still having dreams about that girl?” the question made Ni-ki glanced over his friend.

“Its not like I have it everyday, Won hyung.” he smirks.

Jungwon stole a glance before shrugging his shoulders off and putting his hands inside his pocket. “I mean we still think that one of the reasons why you don’t want to date is because of her.”

Ni-ki gulped and tried to keep his smirk. “What?” he let out a scoff. Making it seem like what his friend just said is very funny.

“No. I haven’t even seen her, we don’t even know if she’s true or my mind just created her..” he says, letting out his thoughts.

“Exactly.” Jungwon stated and taps his shoulder, “Then come come with me with the double date.” he even gave his friend this smile that he thinks can convince him. He looked pretty confident.

Ni-ki lets out a sigh. He knew how his friend can be persistent at times and even if he spare him today, he will try again some other day. He don’t want him annoying him about this matter again. One date won’t hurt him, right? Besides, he didn’t really told him that he should be in a relationship with that person. They will just go on a date and hang out.

“One date?” he tries to make sure his friend ain’t bating him into something funny.

Jungwon scoffed, “Yes, one date. Unless of course if you end up liking her and stuff.”

Ni-ki rolls his eyes and stood up once he saw their bus approaching. “That’s impossible.” he replied. Jungwon didn’t said anything else then just get on the bus with Ni-ki.

Once settled in, they both started talking about other stuff like video games and basketball. The date long forgotten.

Saturday came and Ni-ki was suddenly called in an emergency basketball practice. He cursed while trying to grab his gym bag and also his jersey. While going down the stairs, he almost missed one and fell. His mom furrowed her brows as she try to check on him. She got bothered by the noise he makes with all this rush.

“Ni-ki? I thought you will go out with Jungwon?” she asks, confused as to why he’s wearing a jersey.

“Oh shit.” he got stoned over his position right after remembering about the date he agreed to go to yesterday. It totally slipped off his mind because of the sudden call for practice.

“Language Nishimura Riki.” his Mom said strictly. He gave her a smile before kissing her forehead then jogged out of the house waving her good-bye.

“Sorry, bye Mom!” he says and continues.

While in a hurry, he fished his phone from his duffle bag and dialled his friend’s number. Jungwon picks up after two rings.

“Hey, where are you? I’m on my way to the meeting place right now.”

Ni-ki gulped, feeling slightly guilty for cancelling at the last minute. It’s not like he planned to ditch this date. It just happened that they were called in an unexpected practice because their coach will be gone the next day so he couldn’t train them. He moved the practice today.

“About that...” he started and stood over the waiting shed to wait for the bus.

“I can’t make it today, hyung. I’m sorry. We were called in for basketball practice.”

“What? I thought that's tomorrow?” his tone sound confused.

“Yes. But coached ask for us today since he’ll be going somewhere tomorrow.”

“Ah, is he going to the seminar too? I heard our school sends some of the teachers for it.” he mentions. He’s part of the student body, so it isn’t surprise anymore that he knows about this things.

“Probably.” Ni-ki sighs and silently cheered as he saw the bus driving close. He gets on right after it stopped in front of him. He clicked his card and sat down at one of the vacant seats.

“I’m really sorry, hyung. I didn’t mean to cancel on this.” he felt really bad. Not because he wanted to go, but he hates it whenever he couldn’t keep his word.

“That’s fine. I understand. I will just tell my girlfriend and her friend about it.” he seemed okay with it. Jungwon knows Ni-ki and he will never make an excuse just to get away on something.

Ni-ki glanced outside the window with blank thoughts. For some reasons, he felt something on his chest because he won’t go on that date. Its a little weird because he’s not really into it. He shrugged it off and focused back on talking to his hyung.

“Tell them I’m sorry too.”

Jungwon assured him that he will let them know which somehow made him felt relieved. He doesn’t want to look like a jerk who just ditch dates. That’s an asshole move. He ended the call with his friend and just spaced out the whole ride towards the school.

On the other hand, you let out a small groan when your friend dragged you towards somewhere. You can’t help but to imagine how good it would’ve been if you just stayed in your house today. Your books are probably waiting for you right now, but instead you are here with your friend. Going to a double date with his boyfriend’s friend.

She always brags about how good-looking his boyfriend is and that his circle of friends are all eye candy. She said none of them are ugly that she finds hard to believe. Well, due to being a book worm and a sucker for love stories, you kind of sets the standard high. Boys in your school find it hard to impress you, and that’s why you can’t seem to see yourself to date.

“I should be just in my room, reading my book.” you mumbled while she continues dragging you.

“No! I won’t let you be miserable today.” she says sounding so determined to make a change in your life.

You rolled your eyes and just let her do what she wants. When you arrived near the place she told you, you looked bored. As you roam your eyes around, you can see a lot of couple around. It seems like its a hot place to date nowadays. Your friend roams her eyes around, probably looking for her boyfriend.

You’ve seen his picture already. But this will be the first time for you to meet him in person and hangs out with him. Usually he just picks your friend at school and stuff. You can say he is pretty attractive. Even some students from your school knows him. Seems like he really is famous. Your friend is very beautiful as well so you can’t really blame him for falling for her.

“Baby!” she screams and even waved her hand crazily. You scoffed and slightly find it funny how she’s like this towards him.

She started dragging her towards somewhere once again. When you looked at the guy she hugged, he is tall, neat, have this pretty eyes and all. Just like how she usually describes him. But he ain’t your ideal type. His visual is too soft for you. You’re more on a mysterious vibes.

“Where’s your friend Ni-ki?” she asks and even tried to look for someone.

Ni-ki? Is that suppose to be the guy she was talking about? No offense but his name sounds like a girl’s name. You sighs and tried to stop yourself from overthinking before you spoil the mood.

Jungwon smiled apologetically and just by that you already figured out what he was about to say next.

“He had an emergency so he couldn’t make it today.” he sounded so sorry.

“What? But y/n is here...” she sounded a bit disappointed. She’s really excited to have you meet his friend, but now its not going to happen because he didn’t come.

A part of you are happy, because now you can escape from here. But a part of you is also pissed because you just wasted your time coming here. Three or four chapters are already finished if you didn’t come.

“It’s fine, (friend’s name).” you gently grab her arm and smiled at the two of them. She pouted at you, feeling bad that she dragged you all the way here for nothing.

When you looked at Jungwon, he's staring at you. He seemed drowned with his own thoughts, but when you met his eyes he then composed himself. You can see how his cheeks tinted red after getting caught staring.

“I’m sorry, y/n. My friend also said sorry. He didn’t really expect that he couldn’t make it today.”

You quickly smiled and assured him that it was alright. He’s not at fault and there’s no reason for you to be upset over him.

“It’s totally fine. You guys enjoy your date. I’ll go stop by at a bookstore.” you waved at him and gave your friend a hug.

“I’m sorry, y/n. If you want you can come with us.” she says pouting.

“No, spend quality time with each other. I’ll be good, don’t worry.” and you tapped her shoulder.

You glanced at Jungwon and you saw him staring at you again. “Keep her safe.” he nodded and reached for your friend’s hand. Honestly, you aren’t worried at all because you are sure that he will take care of her.

She waves cutely before you finally walked away. You suddenly felt annoyed once again, but comforts yourself that you can go stop by at one of the bookstores you wanted to check out.

Suddenly, the thought of that boys name popped out of your mind.

‘Ni-ki...’

You scoffed and tried to shove the thought of it away.

“Waah, you’re painting again?” Ni-ki glanced over his friend when he suddenly appeared at the rooftop where he usually spends his free time. Jungwon have this amused look over his face before plopping himself down beside him.

Ni-ki nodded his head and resumes to what he was doing. He did mention his fondness over sketching and drawing people’s portrait. He just finds it interesting how he can put it into arts. He draws landscapes too, but he’s more on sketching people. For him, he enjoys it because he can notice how different one individual can be.

Out of all the portraits he had drawn, the portrait of the girl in his dreams is his favorite. Funny, because he never seen her before yet her portrait is what he likes the most.

He’s actually pretty sad about it because its been weeks ever since he saw her in his dreams. It doesn’t occur to often, but also not this long. A part of him is worried that she won’t show up anymore and that he’ll slowly forget about what she looks like.

“I can’t wait for later.” Jungwon says with a big smile over his lips, eyes glued at his phone screen.

Ni-ki scoffed and teared his gaze away from his friend. He perfectly knew what’s behind those big smiles of him.

“I’m actually surprised you’re not the one who transferred to her school. You’re the simp in the relationship.” he commented that made him snap his head at his direction. A frown was present over his face that made Ni-ki chuckle.

“No I’m not.” he denied.

“Yeah, and pigs fly.” he says before resuming on scribbling through his sketchbook.

He had practice before class so he went to school very early. He’s actually just got off from practice and he went straight here after taking a bath. His hair is even slightly damp.

“Oh, by the way.” Jungwon catches his attention once again. “Did I mention that her friend transferred with her?”

Ni-ki furrowed his brows. “What friend?” he asks, acting curious before he slowly went back on sketching.

Jungwon sighs, “The one you ditched last month, dude!” he exclaimed, finding it unbelievable how he already forgot abour ‘that friend’.

Ni-ki’s hand halts from moving and he was stoned at his position. For some reasons, he got a weird feeling about it. He felt his chest tightens and stomach churns. He couldn’t explain what it is, but he just shrugged it off thinking that maybe its just because he was too tired of practice.

After a couple of minutes, the bell rang and so both of them went down to their class. The hallway was packed with students trying to hurry themselves towards their respective rooms. Jungwon and Ni-ki arrived at class just in time. They sat down at their chairs and soon enough, their homeroom teacher arrived.

Ni-ki glanced over his friend while he pulls out his notebook and scoffed when he saw how excited he looked.

“Dude, your lips will rip any minute now. Cut it out.” he teased because he was smiling crazy.

Jungwon ignored him and he just shakes his head side by side. His eyes darted towards the front as their teacher started to orient them about the newcomers. He wasn’t surprised about ir anymore because his friend spoiled the news to him already. His gaze dropped down to the notebook and he flip the pages over the back of it. He grabbed his pencil and started sketching.

He can hear all the commotion inside the classroom, but he ignored them when he’s slowly getting drowned with his own world. The face of that girl popped up inside his mind. It was so random but he was used to it. Maybe, Ni-ki is missing her in his dreams already.

“Okay, please come in. Don’t be shy.” you heard the teacher says while you and your friend pushes each other who will go first.

She was left with no choice but to go first because you are too shy. When you both entered you can hear some of the students reaction. This is totally nerve wracking for you. You usually feel anxious around a new environment. When you roam your eyes around, you can see all of them looking at the two of you. It made you feel nervous.

One student tho, caught your attention. Unlike all of them, his focus is at whatever he was doing. For that moment, the teacher talking beside you suddenly became muffled. The boy just have this aura that pulled you to stare at him. You can’t help but to feel your stomach turning. These scenes are pretty familiar for you. As someone who loves reading books, you had imagined experiencing moments like this. To actually have it now is amusing for you.

“Ms. y/n?” you snapped back to reality and your stare got teared from the said boy. You looked over the homeroom teacher and they are staring at her.

You blushed, feeling embarrassed for spacing out. “U-Uhm,” you cleared your throat because you felt it slightly drying. “I’m Y/n L/n.”

They welcomed you warmly and after the teacher gave you few reminders, she started assigning you to your respective seats.

“And y/n, please sit down beside Mr. Nishimura.” she says and you roamed your eyes around to see who she’s referring to.

“Nishimura, raise your hand.” she instructed and your chest almost fell when you saw the boy from a while ago raising his hand. He was still busy with what he was scribbling so he didn’t turn his head to look at you.

The teacher just sighs out and asked you to take your seat. You thanked her and you slowly made your way. The boy still kept his attention to his notebook. When you pass by Jungwon, he gave you a wave and so you waved at him as well.

After settling down beside him, he still didn’t spared you any glance. You pursed your lips into a pout and suddenly, you felt like being friendly. He seemed very quiet and you planned to have a good school year.

“Hello, I’m y/n! I hope you take good care of me.” you said excitedly the moment you sat down beside this quiet kid. You noticed him not paying attention when you introduced yourself and so you did him a favor and repeat it for him.

Ni-ki lifts his gaze and was ready to accept your hand but he was stunned when he saw the exact girl he drew a portrait of. The one in his dreams.

“Hyung! I can’t believe you!” Ni-ki grabbed his hair out of frustration while leaning over the railings.

His friends are all watching him. Some are staring at him in a weird way and some are just smirking. He couldn’t pay attention to them teasing him because he have a much better thing to discuss.

Jungwon silently munches over his food and looked at Ni-ki. “I didn’t know it was her, okay? Maybe that’s why I found her familiar when I first saw her.” he says trying to defend himself.

“Wait, wait. So you’ve known the girl Ni-ki’s delulu about and you didn’t remember her?” Jay tries to summarize everything.

Jungwon frowned, “It’s not like I know her, hyung! I've met her once. The day when I set Ni-ki up a date with her.”

Ni-ki groaned and feel more frustrated. He couldn’t believe that he just missed that opportunity. The fact that he met the girl he was sketching for months and that you suddenly appeared out of nowhere is still unbelievable for him. Its like he’s laying in clouds right now.

Heeseung snorted, “The one you ditched because you have practice?” he asks Ni-ki and the boy just nodded his head. He and Jake laughed even more, giving each other's shoulders tugs.

“Ugh! What am I going to do? She seems upset when she heard my name. She didn’t talk to me after that too!” Ni-ki stated that earned more chuckles from his hyungs. They were clearly enjoying teasing the youngest. They’ve never seen him this stressed over something like this.

“Well, you’re already a bad shot that’s for sure.” Sunghoon says with a smirk.

Ni-ki stayed silent as his mind slowly and stared blankly. He looked pretty funny for his friends. Sunoo sighed and rolled his eyes while the others kept on teasing Ni-ki.

“What are your plans now, Ni-ki?” he asks. Out of all of them, he’s the one who seems pretty determined to help him first rather than laughing at his misery. They said real friends do that often. Sunoo’s real with Ni-ki, he just left that job to their other friends. He felt bad for him, he really is bothered about it.

“What do you mean?” the younger one looked clueless.

Sunoo rolled his eyes again.

“We all know how much you’re into her. Now, we may not understand how did it happened that the girl you are sketching which you never seen before, just happen to really exist, but what do you plan to do?” he stated.

Ni-ki is just listening carefully to him.

“She’s a new meat and you know what happens whenever there’s a new face at the campus.” Sunoo smirked. The boys got his point right away.

“Oh yeah, I’m sure she’ll be the talk of town for a while.”Jay.

Ni-ki furrowed his brows lightly and realized that they were right. That’s what usually happened. Now, he got more things to worry about.

“What about Jungwon hyung's girl? She’s new too.” he stated.

That made Jungwon furrow his brows. “They all know she’s very much taken so nobody would dare to even try.”

“Honestly, all I can think of doing is to make up to her since I ditched her and made myself look like a total jerk.” his tone sounded so stressed.

“That’s a good idea.” Jake stated, he finally managed to say something after laughing at his younger friend.

“Although I couldn’t seem to think what’s your fault since Jungwon already said that you are called in an emergency practice.” Sunghoon.

Ni-ki shrugs his shoulders off and throw his head back, staring at the clouds above them. They looked so peaceful and somehow ease his frustration. He couldn’t think of anything but you. He’s still amused at what just happened. He can’t believe that you actually exist. There’s no definite explanation to any of this. At the back of his mind, he do wish you are true. But now that he had come face to face to you, he can’t help but to have mixed emotions.

“I should’ve went there and told her myself that I was called in.”

“You were running late already that time, man.” Heeseung.

“Then be it.” the firmness of his tone just made them realized that he is sincerely sorry of what happened.

“What? Nishimura Riki? Will have himself late for basketball practice just so he can tell a girl that he’s called in?” Sunghoon's smirk are wide and wildly teasing. He let out a big sigh.

“Waah, is that really you? Basketball dude. We’re talking about basketball here.” he added.

Ni-ki rolled his eyes and his ears are starting to get red. His friends are well aware of how fond he is over to the girl in his sketches, now it just shows how much he really is into her. And he even just saw her today. Even him think its a little crazy.

On the other hand, you are thinking of Ni-ki as much as he’s thinking of you. His face truly is ethereal. The visual can pass as someone stripped out from one of the books you have read. His proportions are perfect as well, tall and long legged. His aura is slightly mysterious as well, although you still find it odd how he reacted when he looked at you a while ago.

Maybe because he knew he stood you up before. You scoffed lightly. You aren’t really mad about him and you know he isn’t at fault. But you can’t help but to feel a bit of disappointed, because that’s the first time you actually tried to go on a date with someone. You thought that fate already made a move on not making you two meet that time. Maybe that’s already a sign.

“He’s good looking, isn’t he? I told you!” she’s been talking about this one for 15 minutes already.

You can’t help but to roll your eyes. Ni-ki is indeed very good looking, but of course you won’t say that. She will surely tease you so much and you don’t need it for today.

“Do you like him?” she sounded like she’s expecting so much from your answer. Her eyes sparkles in excitement.

You stared at her in disbelief, “Do you actually think that I will like someone just because they’re good looking? Books don’t raised me to be like that.”

Instead of showing a disappointed expression, her smiled grew bigger and started pointing at you like she caught you or something.

“So you do think he is good looking!”

You got stunned by what she said. It was too late to realize what you have said and you can’t take it back or else you will look defensive.

“Whatever.” You just looked down your lunch and started to silently eat it. She started to tease you, but you chose to ignore her.

When you both returned to class, you felt so nervous of seeing him again. You actually don’t understand why, but you just did. Some of your classmates greeted you and you smiled at them, a little shy. Your eyes darted at your seat and the chair beside it is vacant.

You walked over and you even saw Jungwon rushing his way to his girlfriend. You sat down and your eyes took a short glance at Ni-ki’s seat. For an unknown reason, you felt a little sad. You shrugged it off and just grabbed your textbook for the next class.

“Hi y/n!” your eyes darted over to the guy who approached your table. He’s one of your classmates and also part of Ni-ki’s circle. Jungwon introduced the two of you a while ago to his friends, so you know.

You flash him a small smile and your eyes follows his hand as he put a banana milk on your desk. You stared at it a bit, confused then you eyed him.

“I’m Sunoo and that’s from Ni-ki! He asked me to give it to you since they’re called in practice.” he said and your eyes darted back at the banana milk.

The class then started to go seat at their chairs when the teacher for that subject arrived.

“Nice meeting you, bye!” he bid and quickly went to go sit down.

You didn’t even manage to say something to him. While the teacher starts his discussion, your eyes are still glued back to the drink on your desk. You slowly grabbed it and checked the note sticked to it.

‘Hope you enjoy this! :) — Ni-ki’

Your attention was called by your teacher. She asked you and your friend to introduce yourselves because you are new. Then she welcomed you both with a warm smile. After that, she asked you to take a seat so she can start the lesson already.

“Kindly turn your book to page 378.”

As you grab your textbook and start to turn its page, your eyes darted at the drink once again. You scoffed and a ghost smile appeared over your lips before you tried to concentrate to the lesson.

Dismissal came faster than you expected and Ni-ki didn’t showed up in class anymore that whole afternoon. You heard that they’re preparing for the big game and that Ni-ki is actually one of the star players. He really is important in the team. Somehow, you now really understand why he needs to ditch that day.

“Hello,” your heart almost fell when you saw Ni-ki standing right beside you. He’s wearing a plain black shirt and sweats while his duffel bag hangs over his shoulders. His hair looked a little damp, you assume he just finished practice.

You tried to keep your cool and glanced back at your locker. “Hi.” you shortly replied. It made him smile a little.

“Did you receive the banana milk?” he asks and leaned over the lockers. He glanced over the students passing by that greets him.

“Yes. What’s it for?”

He smiles, “I just want to give you one.”

You stared at him for a while before you resumed on arranging your things.

“If this is still about that day, you know you don’t have to give me one.”

He sighs then put his hands inside his pockets. He looked so attractive. Its so crazy to even think of it that way, but its just how it is. You don’t even understand how someone can look this good in just wearing plain black shirt and sweats.

“I know, I just want to.”

You kept his stares at you for a while before you nod your head and glance away. After closing your locker you start walking towards your friend. She’s smiling when she glanced at you and her eyes shifted at the person behind you. That’s when you realized Ni-ki followed you. Your heart races, but you still tried to keep your cool.

“I’ll g-go first. See you guys tomorrow.” you said and gave her a hug. She nods and waved at you telling you to stay safe.

While you’re walking out of the school, you looked over your shoulder because you can still feel someone following you. He smiled innocently and pulled his hand out of his pocket to wave.

“Hi.”

“Are you following me?” you tilt your head over to the side.

“Yes.”

“Why? Do you need anything?”

He pursed his lips, trying to suppress a smile. “Nah, I just want to walk you home. Can I do that?”

You blushed and quickly glanced away like as if you can get answer from somewhere. He kept his stares at you and Ni-ki can’t help but to admire how adorable you look.

“Uhm, I take a bus ride home.”

He nods, “Then I’ll wait for your bus with you. Is that all right?”

Your stomach turns while staring at his innocent looking eyes. The way that he kept asking for permission does something in your heart. How can he looked so intimidating, but be super soft? It’s crazy. You gulped and left with no choice but to let him do it.

He grins and slowly reach for your things so he can help you. That action definitely caught you off-guard, while he looks cool with it. It was almost like he’s very used to doing such things. Is he just really a gentlemen or a playboy? You can’t decide.

You walk beside him, slightly trying your best to keep up. When he noticed, he chuckled softly and stopped so he can wait for you. With a pout, you shoot him glares. “You walk so fast.” you mumble.

He let out another chuckle, “I’m sorry. Let’s go?”

You nodded your head and you both walked towards where your bus usually stops. Ni-ki was the one initiating the conversation which you find very nice because you are shy and you have no idea how to start it. Surprisingly, he isn’t that boring and also not that overwhelming for you. He’s actually very fun to talk to. You cannot believe you actually said it. That he’s fun to talk to.

When you saw the bus driving close, you glanced at him and awkwardly smiled.

“U-Uh, thank you for waiting with me.”

He nodded and gently passes you your bag. “You’re welcome. Get home safe.” and he waved his hand.

You nodded and quickly went to ride the bus. After settling down, you looked over Ni-ki who's still standing where you left him. He glanced at you then smiled when you two met eyes. You signalled him to go and he mouthed something like ‘After your bus left’ and even pointed at the bus.

When the bus started to go, he waved one last time. As it drove away, your mind was left with him. You don’t understand. This was the first time you met Ni-ki and his first impression was even not good for you, then why does it seem like its something else? You can’t point what really is it. All you know is that he made you feel things nobody else does before.

A week has already passed and Ni-ki continued on joining you while you wait for your bus at dismissal. Sometimes he eat lunch with you and your friend, together with their group of friends. They’re all cool and funny. Its obvious how they get along pretty well.

“Here,” your eyes darted over to Ni-ki when he pulls out something from his pocket.

“What..?” he handed you this bookmark that left you a little speechless. It was a sketch of you. The one when you both are studying at the library.

You glanced at him with amused eyes, “Did you draw this?”

He smiled and nodded, “Yes. I told you I do sketches.”

You are still amazed at how good he is so you couldn’t really say anything right away. Your eyes dropped at the pretty bookmare once again and you stared at it. He’s very good, very talented.

“I didn’t know you are this good.”

He chuckles, “Thank you.”

You glanced back at him and smiled, “Thank you for this. I will use this.”

He smirked happily, feeling his heart jumped after knowing you enjoyed and appreciated his small gift for you.

“You better.” he joked that made you chuckle.

As you spend more time with him, the more you get to know Ni-ki. He’s not just amazing, he’s very ideal for you. He’s funny, playful, caring and so much more. You can’t believe you’re actually getting interested over somebody. Fictional characters usually makes you blush, but he’s a real person. He’s real and making your stomach go crazy because of his actions.

“Hi beautiful.” your head snaps over to your side when someone sat down.

A smile quickly made its way over your lips when you saw who it is. It’s Ni-ki and he’s wearing a plain white t-shiry, paired by a black slacks. His hair still a bit damp while he put his duffel bag down at floor. He pulled out a banana milk from it and put it on your table.

“Good morning, how’s practice?” you gently asked and even before you can stop yourself, your hand reached over his hair and softly brush it away from his eyes.

Ni-ki gulped and felt his heart thumping by the affection. You pursed your lips and instantly got shy when your eyes met. You glanced away and pulled your hand away from his hair. He smirks and bite his lower lip.

“It was good. Coach is being a little rough with us tho, because the competition is next month.” he says and you nodded.

“Good luck with your games.” you tried hard to maintain an eye contact even if you can feel your whole face heating up.

“You’ll watch, right?”

Your eyes roamed over his handsome face. They looked so soft, almost hypnotizing you into agreeing to watch his games. You caught your lower lip between your teeth and again, you stretch your hand to brush his hair off.

“Yeah, I’ll watch.” and his stares soften more, if that’s possible. He looked so good. Ni-ki looked so handsome right in front of you. You can’t explain the feeling that you are having right now. It’s uncomfy, how your stomach churns but if he was the reason of it, you’ll want to experience it over and over again.

“Good.” he says and kept the eye contact before gently grabbing your hand to slightly intertwin your hands.

He pulled it closer to his face and placed a small kiss over your hand, “You look so beautiful.” he mumbled.

You gasped lightly and glanced away. He chuckled lightly then he helped you opening the banana milk. Soon enough, your classmates arrived and your day continued. The days passes by too quickly and you just grew closer with Ni-ki.

Another week passed by after that. You mostly spent it with your friend and Ni-ki. He’s usually around you, accompanying you. Some even said that you two are starting to get inseparable. Of course your friend couldn’t stop teasing you about it. She wants you and Ni-ki to be together so bad. Before you get annoyed by her constantly talking about it, but now the idea doesn’t seem to be bad for you. Its just, Ni-ki isn’t saying anything about it. You don’t know if he likes you the way you like him.

“Ni-ki! Valo later?” a smile appeared across your face when you heard a voice from somewhere says that. Soon, you can feel a figure approaching close to you and a hand gently reaching for your bag.

“I don’t know. I’m busy later.” Ni-ki responded. You heard his friend complained about something that he don't join them anymore and somehow you felt guilty, because you clearly know what keeps him ‘busy’.

A hand rests over the small of your back, asking for attention. You turn your head and smiled at him.

“Hi. How’s practice?”

“Good. Was the food good?” he asks curious, his hand now caressing your back gently.

“Yes. Thank your Mom for me.” he gave you lunch a while ago and he said that his Mom cooked it for you.

He nods and smiled then waits patiently until you can go. After a couple of minutes, both of you are off to go at your bus stop. It’s Saturday tomorrow, so you don’t really know what to do. Maybe you’ll just read some books or go out to look for more books.

“What are you up to tomorrow?”

Your head snaps at his direction while the two of you walks side by side. “Nothing. Maybe read some books.” and you even shrug your shoulders off.

“Do you want to go with me?” he glanced away while his ears turns red. He’s incredibly cute so you can’t help but to smile.

“Go with you? Where?”

“Double date.” his eyes dropped over his hands before he slowly raised to look at you.

“Are you asking me out?” your lips almost trembled because of the idea. It excites you.

“Yes.”

You pursed your lips and jokingly squinted your eyes at him, “Do you promise not to ditch me again?”

He chuckles, “I promise.” and even raised his left hand. Your smile fell and you shoot him glares.

“Its suppose to be your right hand!” and you swat his arm. He laughs and fixed it, “Oh my bad, I’m left handed.” he joked.

“So is that a yes?” and he stretch his hand to brush some of your hair off of your face. The slight touch of his skin to yours makes you blush right away.

“Yes.” and you even nodded.

This time, you're the one who reach for his face to pinch his nose lightly.

“All right.” he smiled and held your hand to intertwin your hands.

“Let’s call later?” he asks that made you pout. Your eyes looked over your holding hands. Ni-ki noticed that its a bit cold so he took your hands and put it inside his pocket.

“You should join your friends on playing valo. We’ve been facetiming each other every night.”

He shakes his head, “Nah, I’m not in the mood to play anyway.”

“They’ll start to be suspicious.”

He shrugged his shoulders off, “They know I’m talking to you.”

Your eyes grew a bit big and you blushed just by thinking his friends are aware of it. Ni-ki smirked.

“You’re so beautiful.” he mumbled and just in time, your bus arrived.

Your mind is still occupied even after you ride your bus and it left. His actions and his words all leads to one conclusion, but you still keep yourself from assuming things.

The next day, you woke up early to prepare. You don’t understand, but you are so excited to see Ni-ki. Not that you don’t see him at school, its just different to hang out on weekends.

When you arrived the place where you are suppose to meet the first time, your brows slightly furrowed. All you can see is Jungwon and your friend. No Ni-ki can be seen.

“Where’s Ni-ki? Is he late?” you asked right away.

“Huh? No! He’s...” your friend roamed her eyes around. “right there!” she added.

You looked over your shoulder and saw him walking closer while holding a cup of coffee. He's smiling so big and so you did too, but your eyes trailed down to what he's wearing. It's his jersey.

“You have practice?” you asked, confused.

He nods his head, “I’ll take you with me.”

Your eyes grew big, “To your practice?”

He nodded again, finding you adorable.

“B-But are you even allowed to take me?” you are worried, but you want so bad to go. You’ve never been in their practice.

“Yes. Then after that, we’ll go check some bookstores.” he says excitedly.

“Bookstores?”

He pulled out a piece of paper that shows a list of bookstores around. You pursed your lips into a pout, completely moved over what he did. You hugged him and he was caught off-guard.

“Thank you!”

He broke into a soft smile and dropped a kiss at your forehead, “Anything for you.”

You both bid good-bye to your friend and Jungwon before you walk hand in hand towards the bus stop. Ni-ki assists you to ride and ask you to take a sit while he beep his card to pay for the two of you.

While on the way to school, you enjoy the coffee he ordered for you. He enjoys watching you at the same time. You offered him a sip, but he declined. Soon enough, you both arrived the school. You can barely see people inside, just some maintenance people and some school personels.

You two went straight to the gym. You can already hear the sound of shoes and basketball echoing inside. He gently guided you inside and you started feeling shy when you felt them eyeing you. Once they seen who it was, they started teasing Ni-ki. He can’t help but smile while he guides you at the benches. He sets his bag down beside you and ask if you’re all right. You nodded, despite the blushing cheeks.

“You can watch or read your books.” you nodded and he started jogging towards the court after he took off his plain t-shirt.

You don’t know much about basketball, but surprisingly you enjoyed watching him play. He’s very attentive and you can really tell how he pour everything to things he like doing. He’s full of passion over it.

A loud honk errupted all over the gym, signalling that the practice is now over. Their coach blew the whistle then asked them over. They all approached him and you think he started telling them about the things he noticed. After a couple of reminders, they let them go.

“I’ll just take a quick shower.” he said and you nodded your head before he goes and left you.

While waiting for him, you noticed that a group of players stormed inside. Base on their uniform, they seem like the volleyball team. You didn’t mind them and just busy yourself with your phone.

A pair of shoes caught your attention when it enters your line of sight.

“Hi!” a guy wearing a jersey with a number ‘04’ smiled in front of you. He have this clean haircut and a pretty set of teeth.

“U-Uhm, hello.” you awkwardly greeted.

“Why are you here? Practice? Or waiting for someone who had practice?”

“Waiting for someone.” you answered right away.

He nodded his head while pursing his lips, “Who?”

“Me.” both of you turn your head over to the side.

Ni-ki’s walking closer while having both of his hands inside his pocket, duffle bag hangs over his shoulder and his hair a bit damp. His eyes looked so serious while staring straight to the guy who approached you.

“Nishimura, huh?” he sounds a bit amused.

Your view of him got covered when Ni-ki stood in front of you. He tilt his head, “What do you want?” he asked him straightly.

“What is this? Are you finally over with your dream girl?” his tone taunting him. Your brows furrowed at what he said, confused and curious at the same time as to what he was talking about.

“Shut up.” Ni-ki took advance, but you are quick to grab him by his arm. He glanced at you and his eyes soften.

“Let’s just go.” you plead lightly.

He clenched his jaw hard before he glanced back at the guy. His friends approached closer as well so you somehow you felt at ease.

Thankfully, none of them engaged into a much more trouble and decided to just go leave each other. Ni-ki bid good bye to his hyungs before gently grabbing your hand to take you away. Your mind is still occupied about what that guy said a while ago. The one with Ni-ki’s dream girl. What was that? A part of you felt curious and a part of you doesn’t want to ask about it. You’re afraid to know what his answer would be.

When you arrived at the bus stop, he draws in a strained sigh. He looked a little frustrated.

“I’m sorry that you have to see that.” he apologized, probably referring to him almost getting caught in fight.

You pursed your lips, trying to get rid of that thought and focus on what he is saying right now. “It's f-fine.” was all you can respond.

You wanted to say more, so he wouldn’t caught on you overthinking and stuff, but none came out from your mouth. Your mind couldn’t process anything. Are you that comfortable with Ni-ki that you’ll just let him see through you?

He pursed his lips and sighed once again. You watch him do that and look a bit nervous. He’s obviously holding back on telling you something. It made you nervous as well, what it may be.

“About what he said a while ago,” he started that caught your whole attention. Your thoughts instantly pushed at the back of your mind and the noises around suddenly muffled.

He gulped and his hand plays through your hand that he was holding. Ni-ki’s very nervous to how you will react about this. He knew better than to keep this and make you overthink.

“Promise me first that you won’t find it weird.” he stared straight to your eyes, hopeful.

You nodded your head unconsciously.

“This may sound crazy, but I’ve seen you in my dreams before.” he says and kept his stares at you.

You blinked, confused. Totally confused. You almost think that you’ve heard it wrong or he’s trying to pull a prank on you. But his serious face and the fear in his eyes says otherwise. He’s completely serious, leaving you in wonder of what he was talking about.

“O-Okay..?” you tried to say something that better than it, but you failed.

Ni-ki sighed and lets go of your hand, embarrassed. “You think I’m weird.” he mumbled.

A smile crossed your lips and you quickly took a hold of his hand, now holding it. “No, I don't!” he looked at you and you try hard to suppress a smile.

“You’re laughing.”

That caused a chuckle to escape from your lips, “It’s because you’re cute!” you try to pull him again because he’s trying to turn his back so you wouldn’t see his blushing face.

“Cute? Stop kidding me, y/n.” he says and glanced away, cheeks tinted red and so does his ears.

Soon, your bus arrived so you hold your conversation first. Both of you went inside and sat down at a vacant chairs. He was still avoiding your eyes and you’re trying to catch them.

“So, you dreamt of me?” you tried opening the topic again. He groaned, embarrassed still.

“If you’ll just going to make fun—”

“No! I’m really curious about it. I promise, I’m not making fun of you.” and you tried to look as serious as you can. He sighed and nodded his head.

“How do I look like in your dreams? Do I look just like this?” you asked, curious.

He stared at you, his embarrassment now long forgotten. His eyes stared over your eyes, down to your nose, your cupid's bow and your lips. He carefully scanned each and every one of your features, admiring them.

“You looked more beautiful in person. My drawings can’t do justice in that face of yours.” he said in a very sincere and serious tone.

This time, you’re the one to get shy because of his compliment. He always tell you that you’re pretty, but this time its a little more intimate. You can’t help but to blush a bit more than normal.

Ni-ki took your silence as an opportunity and gently held your hand. Your eyes dropped over them for a while before you glanced back to his eyes.

“I don’t want you to think that I liked you only because you look like the girl in my dreams. I admit, that was one of the reason why I got interested, but you as a person is what made me like you.”

“You l-like me?” you are totally caught off guard.

He smirked then chuckled, “Isn’t it obvious?” he then leaned over to give your cheeks a light kiss. “I like you very much.”

“When are you going to show me your drawings?” you asked him one afternoon. You’re at the rooftop, hanging out since its your vacant hour. He decided to take you here with him. He says its his most favorite spot in school and he’s sharing it with you because you’re his most favorite person.

“Probably soon, baby.” he glanced at you and smiled when he saw your pout before leaning in to give you a kiss at your cheeks.

“But I want to see it.”

“Soon.” he gave your cheeks a light tap before he continues to draw again. This time, you sighed and just let it slide. You don’t want to force him even if you’re already dying out of curiosity.

Its already been two weeks ever since you knew about these drawings and Ni-ki’s confession. You haven’t told him yet that you like him as well, you’re waiting for a perfect time.

You focused on reading once again. You read one sentence. Read it again. Again. And again. You put your book down when you realized you couldn’t understand anything. Ni-ki on the other hand looked too hooked over his drawings. A smile forms your lips just by watching him too focused. He looked so ethereal. How can he call you pretty all the time when he’s the one looking like this?

While you’re spacing out, you had come up with a bright idea to confess toda with Ni-ki. Of course, you don’t want it to be just plain. So you came up with a plan to take Ni-ki to your special place.

“Do you want to go with me later?”

He lift his gaze from his sketchbook towards you, “Where are you taking me?” he even gave you this funny face, like as if he’s scared and that you’re planning something horrible to him.

You rolles your eyes and leaned in to place a peck over his cheeks, “Don’t be dramatic. I’ll tell you where later.” you stood up and flattened your skirt, Ni-ki helped on fixing it because it strides up while you’re sitting.

“Where are you going?” he asked.

“Going to buy something and look for (friend’s name). You want something?”

He shakes his head, “Do you want me to come with you?”

You told him you’re good and he just nodded his head. Ni-ki have no clue that you are planning to confess to him. You are too excited when you told your friend about your plan and she was as excited as you. She thinks the two of you are perfect for each other.

“Bye, y/n!” she waves and smiles meaningfully at you.

Ni-ki nods at her way and to his hyung while putting his arms around your shoulder, pulling you closer to him. You are waiting for the bus because you told him you will take him somewhere. He even teases you that you are planning something to him which you just respond with an eye roll.

“So where are we going?” he asks for nth time when you rode the bus.

“Can you just stop asking and wait?” you spat at him that made him chuckle.

“All right. I can’t help but to feel excited, this is the first time you asked me out on a date.”

You gave him a teasing smile, “Who said this is a date?”

His smile fell, “Okay, I’m going down at the next stop.”

You chuckled and grabbed his arm tighter, “I’m kidding! You’re such a baby.”

He smirked and leaned his cheek at you, asking for a kiss. You rolled your eyes and gave in, giving him a peck before you two slowly talk about something.

Arriving at your stop, Ni-ki furrowed his brows when you took him at a memorial park. He didn’t ask anything and just followed behind silently. He held your hand tighter when he noticed how your eyes flashes sadness and longing.

You glanced at his direction after you felt him tugging your hand. The worry over his eyes touches your heart. “Let’s go.” and you started pulling him towards the grave of one of the most important person in your life. Your Dad.

“Hi Dad!” you smiled and waved before you crouched down to take out some leaves all over his gravestone. Ni-ki didn’t waste any time and quickly helped you. A warm smile spread across your face.

“Hello, Sir. I’m Nishimura Riki.” he introduced himself and even bowed.

Your eyes got teary just by seeing him paying respect. You draws in a big sigh then glanced at your Dad’s grave.

“Remember when I cried here, Dad? Because I feel like nobody will take care of me and love me. Well, I am back.” you smiled as your eyes heats up and form tears. “But this time I’m with Ni-ki.” you looked over him and he’s staring at you with that worried and affectionate eyes of his.

You laid your hand and he hold your hand tightly before placing a sweet kiss. “He takes care of me, Dad.”

Ni-ki leaned in and kissed your cheeks this time before turning to your Dad’s grave. “You don’t have to worry about her too much, Sir. I will make sure she’s okay. I will take care and love her with all of me.”

Your eyes grew a bit big and you stared at him in awe. He smiled and raised his hand to wipe your tears away.

“I love you.” he said sincerely that made you teary even more.

“I love you too, Ni-ki.” this time, it was his turn to be surprised.

He cupped your face, “Say it again.”

You chuckled, “I love you.”

“I love you more.” and he lean to give you a peck over your lips. He pulled away after a couple of kisses then he rests his forehead at yours.

“Do you think your Dad will be mad that I kissed you?” that made you chuckle so you pull away a bit to look at his eyes.

“I guess so.” you joked and this time, you leaned in to give him a kiss. Ni-ki closed his eyes and even followed your lips for more.

“That’s her. She kissed me.” and he even pointed at you like a kid.

You rolled your eyes and you rest your head over his shoulder. The two of you stayed like that for a while. After that, you pulled Ni-ki to the place near the memorial park, its like a cliff where you can see the whole city lights below.

You walked over the railings and you let the breeze blew over your hair while you stare blankly at the pretty view. On the other hand, Ni-ki was stunned. He was stoned at his position while he stare at you. This scene is very familiar to him.

You glanced over him as the air blow over your hair and Ni-ki’s heart thumped faster. It was the scene in his dreams. Now, he was certain that it was really you and he was destined to meet you.

He smiled, a tear left his eye before he caged you in a tight embrace. He enjoys his passion and the art he was doing, but you made him fell deeper to it. You are his favorite art piece and now, his favorite person.

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#enhypen #enhypenwriters #eeunoiaverse #eeunoia #eeunoiawrites #enhypen imagines #enhypen x you #enhypen x reader #enhypen fic #enhypen niki x reader #enhypen nishimura riki #enhypen niki imagines #enhypen ni ki #enhypen yang jungwon #enhypen lee heeseung #enhypen jay park #enhypen park sunghoon #enhypen kim sunoo #enhypen jake sim

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junkissed · 1 year

Text

the secret garden

member — seokmin x gn reader genre — fluff :) happy valentine's day! word count — 2.2k warnings — none! notes — this is for @hvcmixtape's valentine's day song collab!! this fic is based on: "like real people do" by hozier

be sure to check out the other participants in the collab - masterlist here!

“hey, honey?”

seokmin looks up at the sound of your voice trailing in from the other room. “yeah?” he calls back.

“i’m off to the store to get stuff for dinner, okay? i’ll be back in a while. text me if you need anything!”

he smiles. “ ‘kay. love you!”

“love you too!” you reply.

he closes his laptop, waiting. minutes later he hears the front door click shut and faintly, the sound of your car starting as you drive away.

when he’s sure you’re gone, he gets up from his chair, peeking out through the doorway of his office before walking out into the house.

the sliding glass door to your backyard opens with a squeak as seokmin slips outside, quickly crossing the yard. he struggles a little moving the heavy birdbath, but once it’s out of the way he finds what he’s looking for.

it’s purposefully hard to get to; hidden behind a cluster of small trees and shrubs and covered even further by the birdbath, because he needs to make sure you won’t see it, unless you knew exactly where to look.

he breathes a sigh of relief when he sees everything in place, just as it was when he last checked a few days ago.

he’s been planning this since last february, when he originally planned on doing this for you; except the squirrels got to it a few days before he could and he had to rush to buy cheap roses from the grocery store down the street because all the florists had been sold out for weeks. he’s still mad about that, and this year he made sure to cover everything in netting so it wouldn’t happen again.

he even bought anti-squirrel spray, and he feels kinda bad about using chemicals, but he didn’t want to risk a natural, chemical-free repellant not working and forcing him to settle for something store bought for a second year in a row. sorry, squirrels.

but thanks to—or perhaps, in spite of—his precautions this year, his gift is perfectly safe and sound. his flowers are coming along perfectly.

they’re right on the verge of blooming: the buds just barely beginning to open, just in time for valentine’s day in a week.

of course, he’s got the classic v-day flowers: deep red roses, pink speckled carnations, white daisies.

but he knows he can do better than that. any moron with a packet of seeds can grow roses in their backyard. so he’s planted some of your other favorites too, ones that took a little more planning to pull off. honeysuckle, tulips, and daffodils, some of your favorites, take up one corner of the flower bed.

the work and research put into getting everything right has been tedious, but seokmin is an ambitious man, and he would only attempt it for you. sure, it probably cost more in time, effort, and supplies than ordering a nice bouquet online would have, but he likes doing things himself, and he likes that his way is more personal.

it’s been many months of diligently deleting the search history on his computer so you don’t see the hour and a half of googling things like “how often do i water carnations” and “are worms good for plants” and “how much sunlight for tulips” every day.

not that he thinks you’d go looking, but he can never be too careful when dealing with surprises. not after two christmases ago when you found your (unwrapped) presents sitting behind the washing machine when your sock had fallen down there; no, he’s learned his lesson.

he heads to the shed along the side of the house to grab the scissors from the shelf of gardening supplies, along with a small watering can.

he’s glad you never end up sticking to your annual new year’s resolution to start gardening more, because if you had, you probably would’ve found his secret flowers already. although maybe after this, he might be able to convince you to come outside and garden with him every once in a while. it’s actually kind of fun, and it’s satisfying seeing his hard work turn into something beautiful.

when he’s done trimming the dead leaves and making sure the plants have enough water, he carefully replaces the netting and moves the birdbath back into place. he puts the gardening scissors and watering can where they belong before heading back inside, carefully sliding the door shut behind him and locking it again.

he’s just finishing washing the dirt off his hands when he hears your car pull up into the driveway, and he can’t help the smile that grows across his face at just the thought of you. he flicks his hands, gives them a quick wipe with a towel before opening the front door and going out to meet you at the car and help you carry everything inside.

the next few days pass by quickly, and before seokmin knows it, it’s the night before valentine’s day.

he’s just gotten back from work, having left early to make sure he has time before you get home, leaving him plenty of time to get everything ready for tomorrow.

he opens the back door, leaving it open so he can hear your car pulling up in case you get home earlier than expected.

crossing the yard he feels like a kid on christmas eve, sneaking out of bed to peek at their presents before christmas morning. he’s excited for his months of planning to finally come together, and he can’t wait to see the look on your face tomorrow when he finally gets to give it to you.

he carefully cuts the flowers, picking out the prettiest and brightest blooms and setting them in a little container so he can take them inside without damaging them.

back in the house he stands over the counter, thinking about how to put everything together. he’s watched countless videos on how to do different kinds of flower arrangements, but sitting in front of the flowers he grew himself, ready to start, it’s a little more nerve-wracking than he had thought.

he’s only got one shot at doing this right, and although there’s still some flowers left outside that he didn’t cut, it won’t be enough to make a completely new bouquet.

he takes a deep breath, eyes flicking across the counter from the daffodils to the daisies before he finally settles on the roses first. gingerly he picks one up and sets it in the vase he bought, already lined with floral tape and filled with just the right amount of water.

one by one he carefully places the flowers in the vase, trying his best to add layers and make everything look nice and organized.

it takes him a little while but finally it’s finished, and he stands back, admiring his work. it’s not as perfect as he’d hoped it would be, but he has to admit it looks pretty damn good for an amateur florist like himself. it definitely would've looked nicer had he bought a pre-made arrangement instead, but he's so happy with everything that the thought of buying flowers doesn't even cross his mind.

he checks his watch, surprised to see how much time has passed as he hurries to put the arrangement in a hiding spot (one that you won’t accidentally find this time) and put your other presents together in a little pink gift bag covered in hearts.

he hears the front doorknob turn just as he’s taking things out of the refrigerator to get started making dinner (it’s your night to cook, but he wants to keep you out of the kitchen and away from the hidden presents).

as always, you greet him with a smile and a kiss, wrapping your arms around his neck and leaning your head against his shoulder. the corners of your eyes crinkle in joy when you see that he’s making your favorite dinner, and you start telling him about your exhausting work day as he cooks.

you’ve decided to take the holiday off and call in sick tomorrow, preferring to spend a nice, romantic day with your husband, so you aren’t in bed as early as you usually would be on a work night. instead, you’re cuddled up on the couch after dinner, talking late into the night about everything and nothing at all. it’s these evening with seokmin that you love the most; the quiet days when you can just be around each other and everything feels safe and comfortable.

and he doesn’t even mind when you fall asleep on his shoulder and he has to gently tap you awake to bring you to bed. in fact, he couldn’t be happier.

the next day he sets his alarm and wakes up before you, sneaking out of bed and tucking his side of the blankets against you so that you won’t immediately notice he’s gone.

by the time you wake up a little while later, the smell of breakfast is already wafting into the room as seokmin carries a tray of waffles and fruit, topped with whipped cream and strawberries in the shape of a heart.

his face breaks into a grin when he sees you awake, carefully handing you the platter of food.

you smile sleepily at him, still letting your eyes adjust to the morning sunlight. “hi, baby.”

he giggles, sitting on his side of the bed next to you. “hi sweetheart. happy valentine’s day.”

he nods at the plate, wordlessly asking you to try the food, and you oblige, cutting off a big piece of waffle. and of course, like everything seokmin does, it’s—

“—so good,” you moan through a mouthful of food, savoring the taste. “you spoil me,” you say as you motion to the spread on your lap.

he giggles. “you deserve to be spoiled. and besides, you haven’t even seen everything yet.”

you pretend to be shocked, gasping exaggeratedly. “there’s more?”

after many years with seokmin, you know he’s probably got something insanely elaborate up his sleeve, but you’re still not used to the way he treats you like you’re the most precious thing in the world. and to him, you are.

he sits with you while you finish your breakfast, leaving only to take your dish back to the sink while you get up and throw some clothes on.

you meet him in the kitchen and immediately see the counter covered in little gifts, but the focal point of the arrangement is a huge case full of flowers, bright pinks and whites and reds with little hints of green spread throughout.

"minnie, this is so…" you start, your voice breaking a little as you walk towards the little display. "these flowers are gorgeous. you must've spent a fortune, you shouldn't have!"

he blushes a little, twining his fingers together. "i didn't!"

you narrow your eyes at him in confusion, and he continues. "i didn't spend anything on them," he repeats. "i grew them myself. so– well, yeah, technically i did buy the bulbs and the seeds and the fertilizer, but i got them on sale so it wasn't that much…" he trails off when he sees you staring at him, mouth hanging open. "what?"

"you grew these?" you ask in shock.

he grins proudly. "i did! and i arranged it myself, too, does it look okay? the carnations wouldn't stick to the tape right, so i had to just– y'know, shove them in there. but they look fine, right?"

you think you might cry at how thoughtful and perfect and wonderful he is, and he's explaining something about squirrels but you're not paying attention because all you can see is the way the smile on his face reaches all the way up to his eyes and the way he scrunches up his nose when he talks, and all you can think about is how happy it makes him when he makes you happy and how happy it makes you when he's happy and how you couldn't be more in love with this man if you tried.

so you do the only thing you can think to do: throw your arms around him and kiss him like it's your first kiss, your last kiss, and every kiss in between all wrapped up into one, and the way he instantly melts into your arms is worth more than any present or expensive floral arrangement he could buy for you. his gifts mean a lot, but nothing comes close to the giddy feeling bubbling up in your stomach when your lips are on his and his arms are softly hugging your waist and his nose is just barely brushing your cheek, and it's the most wonderful feeling in the whole entire world.

and when you finally break apart he's got that sickeningly in-love look on his face, and you know that everything in your life has been leading up to this moment; when you both have so much love you can't physically hold it in, and it spills out over into everything you do for each other. nothing else matters except you and him, your sunshine husband who grows homemade bouquets of flowers for you.

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millersdjarin · 1 year

Text

I Only See Daylight

Chapter Eight

Pairing: Din Djarin x F!Reader

Rating: E

Warnings/tags: mentions of past arranged/forced marriage, past emotional/physical abuse, nightmares, wound/injury description (not in detail), negative self-talk/self-image, panic attacks, PTSD, religious trauma, religion disillusionment

Chapter length: 10k

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notes: so the rating hasn't technically gone up yet, but i've decided to just label it as E from now on rather than E (eventually), just 'cause it's easier :)

long chapter today, so grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy!

i wounded the good and i trusted the wicked; clearing the air, i breathed in the smoke

Grogu doesn’t settle again until he’s made sure that both of you are alright, and that you’re not still mad at each other. He sees the bandage on your shoulder, reaches out to it like he’s going to try and heal it. But you assure him that you’re going to live, that Mando has patched you up real good.

“Your dad’s taken care of me, kiddo. Just get some rest, I promise it’s alright,” you tell him.

Then, Mando sits with him, gently rocking his hammock back and forth, telling him everything is okay. You watch from the doorway, heart warming at the sight.

You wish you could say that your focus is entirely on that, though.

But it’s not.

All you can think about is what Mando said. What he’s called you on several different occasions now, since the first day you came aboard with him weeks ago.

Sweetheart.

You’re still trying to rationalise it, not willing to believe that he means it in the way that you think. Maybe Mandalorians call all their friends that. Although, you think, he didn’t want Karga to call you it, back on Nevarro. And…you’ve never heard him say it about anyone else. Not even to the kid. And if anyone’s going to get called a non-romantic, affectionate Mandalorian nickname, it’s him.

But so far, it’s just been you.

You’re just debating whether or not to bring it up when Mando peers over the edge of Grogu’s hammock, then says softly, “He’s asleep again.” He gets up, and you move out of the way so he can climb out of the bed chamber and close the door behind him.

And then you’re just standing in front of each other, barely two feet apart. He’s looking at you through the visor, and something about him seems hesitant, unsure.

“Look,” he says eventually, “I’m really sorry.”

“You already said that. And it’s alright, we’re both wired after what happened…”

“Not just about the fight,” he cuts you off softly, holding up his hand for a moment. He pauses. You’d fold your arms over your chest if you could; you feel exposed beneath his gaze, like he can see so much more of you than anyone ever could before.

“Then what are you apologising for?”

“I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable.”

You frown. “By…doing what?”

“Calling you Cyar’ika. Sweetheart,” he corrects, and his left shoulder twitches just a little, almost self-consciously. “I…hope I didn’t overstep. I won’t call you it again.”

“No,” you say, probably too quickly, and find yourself taking a short step closer to him. He doesn’t move away, but he tenses, visor following your movement. “No, you…” you’re not sure how to say, Actually, Mando, I’d quite like to be the person you call ‘sweetheart’, so instead, “You didn’t overstep.”

A beat. “Oh.”

“I mean, maybe it would’ve been nice to know what you’ve been calling me all this time…”

“When I called you it for the first time, it just…slipped out. And again just now. I was worried it would scare you if you knew what it meant. If you’d think it was…weird.”

A smile twitches at your lips as warmth blooms in your chest, and you’re itching to step closer, to put your hands on his helmet like you’d hold his face. “It’s not,” you say. “But…”

“…But?”

Softly, you sigh. For a moment you glance away, rubbing the back of your neck. “Mando, I…I never wanted to intrude on your life. I honestly thought you’d get sick of me by now,” you say, and he tries to stop you with a gentle slip of your name, but you hold out your hand to carry on, “But you haven’t. And, honestly, I guess I’m wondering what…that word means. Not literally, but…to you. To us.”

A breath comes through his helmet. You see it release from his chest. He looks at you, as if considering. Then, tentative, he takes a step closer, and reaches down to take your good hand in his.

A sharp, quiet breath pulls into your throat. You wait for him to speak, unsure you could form words right now.

“Cyar’ika…” he says, and now that you know what it means, it makes a shiver run down your spine. “This is…all very new. To me. To my life.”

You look down. “I know. Like I said, I didn’t want to intrude…”

His other hand surprises you by lifting to prop his pointer finger under your chin. Gently, so gently, he coaxes your head up, lifting your eyes to meet him again. “You’re not,” he says, “that’s not what I’m saying.”

You gulp heavily. “Then…what are you saying?”

He keeps his finger there for another long, lingering moment. Your skin is still sparking even when he pulls away, hand dropping back to his side. “I’m saying that I feel…something between us. If you do.… I mean, do you?”

It’s endearing, this new hesitancy about him. It’s almost enough to distract you from the fact he just said that. You manage to nod, stammer out a, “Yes.”

“But…this is new. I’ve not had something like this before, and I…I never expected it. I never expected…you.”

“Likewise,” you agree, a soft smile tilting the corner of your lips.

“I care a lot about you. Which is why I don’t want to kriff this up by—by not being able to give you what you need, what you deserve.” He sighs, soft, his hands clenching nervously at his sides. “I’ve got a lot of things that I need to work out. From…from my past.”

You swallow down a lump of emotion, and nod understandingly. “Me, too.”

He nods, like he already knew. “And I don’t really know where I’m going, what I believe anymore. But what I do know is that whatever has happened that led us here, I don’t…I don’t want it to end. With you, with the kid. I promised I’d take you travelling, and I also promised I’d take you back if you ever wanted or needed to; I intend to keep those promises.” He shakes his head. You watch him, waiting for him to continue. Then his tone shifts to something softer, something less certain. “I don’t know what I can give to you, but if you’re okay with waiting for me to work it out, can we…find a way forward together?”

Kriff.

Your heart leaps. Both with excitement and nerves. It’s quite a thrilling mix, actually, one you’ve never felt before. At least, not quite like this.

You’ve never actually been with anyone before. Not willingly, not out of real and true feelings. The man you were betrothed to was never someone that you had chosen. Never someone you would have chosen, in any version of reality.

And, despite the thrill of hearing Mando say he feels the same, you’re not really sure how you’re going to handle anything more than what They tried to force upon you. They went to a lot of effort to make sure you weren’t desirable to anyone else. Mando doesn’t know what lies under your clothes, or beneath the rubble of the past you tried so hard to leave in a wreckage behind you.

Doubt begins to creep in around your happiness. It’s sour, foul on the edges of your consciousness.

As soon as he sees all that…mess, he’s going to run. You know this. They made sure that it would never be any other way.

“Cyar’ika,” Mando’s voice breaks you from the thoughts heading down a dark path. “If you don’t feel comfortable…”

“No, it’s not that,” you’re quick to say, voice shaking a little. “I just…this is new to me, too.”

He nods. Squeezes your hand, soft, reassuring.

Maybe, for now, you can pretend that it will be everything you could dream. You can have this, both of you, even if just for a time.

“We can take it slow,” Mando promises you, so soft that it hurts, brings a painful yearning to your chest.

You nod. Some kind of instinct draws your eyes down to where his lips are behind the beskar, even though you can’t see them, can’t kiss them like you want to. Can he kiss? Is that a thing that you’ll ever have together, if he can’t take his helmet off?

“There’s a lot that I don’t know,” you whisper, a confession and a question.

He lifts up his other hand. Out of the corner of your eye, you see it gently coming towards your face, and as it goes out of sight you feel the backs of his fingers trace lightly down your cheek. “Whatever you want to know,” he says, “I’ll try my best to answer.”

A shaky breath escapes your lips, your eyelids fluttering at his touch. You wish it was his bare skin, wish you could turn your head and kiss the very warmth of his palm. There are a lot of questions, many of which you’re sure you haven’t even thought of yet. He probably has them for you, too, and you wish you could offer him the same promise of answers in return.

It should be terrifying. This development, whatever exactly it is, should make you want to run back to that planet and never see anyone again. The trust and attachment blooming in your chest are exactly what you stayed alone to try and avoid; let alone being off of the safe planet and in the middle of space where anyone could find you.

But, just like everything else with Mando that should have scared you off, it doesn’t.

“You should rest,” Mando says quietly, his hand falling from your cheek. “How does your shoulder feel?”

“Hurts,” you say with a sad smile. “But I’ll be okay.”

He nods. Pauses. “I really am sorry,” he says. “And I’m thankful. I couldn’t have done the mission without you. I’m sorry for getting angry, but I’m mostly sorry that you got hurt.”

“It’s alright. I went in knowing what could happen. Honestly, Mando, it could’ve been worse.”

“It could have been. But I won’t let it happen again.”

A small smirk twists your lips, “You saying you’re going to invite me along to another mission? Because I’m down.”

He chuckles and shakes his head. “Maybe. If we need to.”

“Well, you’ve got my number,” you joke. Your body is starting to feel heavy with exhaustion, muscles getting stiff from the exertion.

Mando sees it. He reaches his hand out again, this time settling it carefully on the back of your neck. Then he leans in, almost like he’s going to kiss you, but you know he’s not (though you wish he could). Instead as your eyes fall closed, you feel the gentle press of cool beskar against your forehead as he rests his there.

“Rest, Mesh’la,” he says, maysh-lah, and smoothes his thumb over your neck.

You exhale, shaky. “What’s that one mean?”

Briefly, he pushes against you so gently, the front of his visor brushing against your nose like a Mandalorian kiss. Then he pulls away, lets you go. “Beautiful,” he translates.

Your heart clenches.

The last time you heard that word directed at you, it was your mother, telling you that no one would find you beautiful again. That your only hope was your betrothed.

Shoving the memory away, you give Mando a shaky smile, and squeeze his hand before letting him go. “You going to sleep, too?”

“Once we’re in hyperspace,” he says. “I need to eat first. Are you hungry?”

“Actually, yeah.”

“I’ll make us something quick. Then you can sleep.”

“Yes, sir,” you offer a playful salute, earning a humorous shake of his head.

He gestures to the ladder, following you when you turn towards it. Just before you start to climb, you feel the slightest brush of his palm against the small of your back.

You shiver, partly because it feels nice, partly because of what lays beneath your clothes.

You force yourself not to pay it any mind. Not now.

Not yet.

When you wake up, the first thing you feel is the pain in your shoulder.

“Fuck,” you mutter to yourself, grimacing as you roll onto your back, winded with the effort of it. The pain is shooting like the knife is still in there. At the feeling, the dream you just left comes back to your mind: you dreamt that you were lying in your bed at your hut with a knife in your shoulder, and no one could get it out. Mando was there in the corner of the room, just watching while dozens of people tried to remove it, the pain increasing with every tug, every tear.

Then, Mando had stepped closer, and everyone around you disappeared. He reached for you, for the knife’s handle. It was going to be okay, he was going to help you, until your shirt tore and revealed your stomach and he saw your skin, what you look like, and the memories from everything you escaped were playing on a screen on the wall for him to see—he backed away, disgusted—

And then you woke up.

Now here you are, still feeling the after-effects. So much so that when you look to the door and realise it’s open, you almost expect to see Mando there, backing up, turning away and not looking back. As if you were never there in the first place.

You hate bad dreams.

Mando and Grogu are in the cockpit when you emerge. You’d avoided your reflection in the ’fresher mirror, and hope that you don’t look as hideous as you feel when the flashing lights of hyperspace come into view.

You sit down in your seat. Grogu turns to you and gives you a happy smile.

“Morning, kiddo,” you smile tiredly, reaching out with a wince to rub your hand over his head. Pain shoots down your shoulder, strains all the surrounding muscles. “Oh, kriff.”

Mando’s helmet turns to look at you. “You okay?”

“Just hurts, is all. Sleeping kinda made it worse.”

“I’m sorry,” he says.

“How’d you sleep?”

“Well, thank you.”

“Where are we headed?”

“I know we only left Coruscant not that long ago, but I thought we could head back.”

“I’m okay with that. You did promise to take me to a restaurant,” you say, giving him a sly smirk.

He chuckles, his shoulders shaking just a little. “I did, didn’t I?”

“Just try not to get into any trouble that gets you stabbed, this time.”

“Can’t make any promises. And anyway, you’re one to talk.”

“Oof. I see how it is. Are we going there for a mission?”

“No. The ship’s heater has been showing warning lights, I thought I should get it checked out. And I thought…” he hesitates, although it might just be a lapse in concentration as he flips a few switches above him, “I thought we could get you some new clothes.”

You raise an eyebrow. “You saying my wardrobe is tired, Mando? Rich, coming from you.”

“No,” he laughs a little, “I like your wardrobe.”

“Are you a fashion expert? Secretly keeping track of all the style trends on different planets? Personally, I think you’d really suit a poncho.”

He sighs, not tired but amused. “Alright, alright. I just meant that you still have to sleep in your day clothes. It can’t be comfortable, and after your injury, you should be comfortable.”

Your heart warms. “That’s sweet,” you say softly, wishing your sore muscles would let you reach out and run your hand over his shoulder. Then, turning teasing again, “What do you sleep in, Mando?”

“Wouldn’t you like to know,” he quips, low and suggestive.

Something stabs through your gut. Something…not unpleasant. “That’s why I asked. Do you sleep in the armour?”

He’s quiet for a second, either avoiding the question or just concentrating on something. “I sleep in my flight suit. With the helmet on, since taking the kid on.”

“Is it comfortable?”

He shrugs a shoulder. “I’m used to it.”

Your mind wanders to a place where you might see him when he sleeps. Where maybe, he’d let you lie beside him. Maybe even touch him, hold his hand. Feel his heartbeat in his chest.

“We’re coming up on Coruscant,” he announces, and the ship whips out of hyperspace, the planet appearing before you, stars coming to a standstill.

“Maker,” you curse, “it is pretty, isn’t it?”

“Better from far away,” he says, wry. “Too busy on the surface.”

He’s right. It’s really fucking busy.

You knew this, of course. But last time you came to Coruscant, you stayed on the ship, and you remember being distinctly grateful that you were safely inside the walls and not out amongst the chaos.

The only thing that stops your racing heart from deteriorating into full-blown panic is Mando beside you, sticking close to make sure you’re not separated by any quick-footed pedestrians. The kid is in his satchel, not enough space on the streets for his pram.

Mando’s hand brushes against the small of your back every now and again, sometimes guiding you through a quieter section, and sometimes, you think, because he’s offering or seeking comfort. He’s not big on crowds, either.

It’s loud and a little disorienting, but Mando keeps his head as always, knowing where he’s taking you: to a little clothing store on a street corner, lit with bright neon lights in the windows. Grogu is fascinated by all the clothes, the different fabric textures and designs. He reaches out and touches everything he can, and Mando only sometimes tells him to stop, though it’s entirely half-hearted. The kid is distracting, so it takes you far too long to pick out some comfy pyjamas, while Mando waits with an admirable patience.

“Hey, these would suit you,” you say to him, holding up a pair of black pyjamas with gold embroidered trimmings and patterns. You give him a teasing grin, holding it up to his body to try it. “That’s a good look on you, Mando. I’m into it.”

He shakes his head, amused.

You make sure to choose long-sleeved clothes to hide your skin as always. The pyjamas you go for are soft, probably the softest fabric you’ve ever felt, a dark blue colour with white stars patterned on the shoulders and the hem of the pants. The long sleeves are wide and flared, the pants pleated. They’re warm and comfortable and you can’t remember the last time you slept in something like this; if you ever have at all.

“Thank you,” you say as the three of you exit the shop. “You didn’t have to get those for me.”

His gloved hand brushes against yours as you squeeze yourselves past a particularly dense group of people. “You’re welcome,” he says. “You deserve to be comfortable.”

You smile, warmth blooming in your chest again. “So, dinner?” You suggest.

“I know just where to go.”

The diner is small but busy, a restaurant tucked on the fifth floor of a tall, beige building that glitters with lights in each window and hanging down the corners of the walls.

It’s divided throughout the restaurant with curved walls, creating little areas tucked away and some more in the open. There’s a bar in the middle of the room where people are perched on barstools, drinking alone or flirting with another. A live band plays in the corner opposite yours, generic music floating through the air as a backdrop to the hustle and bustle. It is small compared to other places in the city, but clearly a popular place to come.

You sit in a booth in the corner beside one of the floor-to-ceiling windows, the perfect place to watch the busy crowds moving through both in and out of the restaurant, some people arriving, some still eating, and some on their way out. The city below you is alive with lights and movement, above you with speeders in traffic lanes.

“Did you pick this spot because you know I like watching people?” You ask Mando after a waiter has taken your order.

“You and the kid, yes,” he says.

You give him a smile. He’s sitting opposite you with the kid at his side, in a little kid’s booster chair on the booth bench. “You been here before?”

“I got a bounty here once. It seemed nice.” He’s got a drink in his hand, the waiter having brought both of you one after you ordered. He’s not drinking it, just swilling it around as if he’s nursing it.

“Of course you did.”

“It was before I met you. Before I met the kid, actually.”

You take a sip of your drink, the liquor warming your throat. “How long ago was that?”

“That I met the kid, or that I came here?”

“Both, I guess.”

He tilts his head, thinking. “I’ve had the kid a little over a year,” he says. “So, maybe two years ago.”

You want to ask more, ask him where he and the kid met, how they were brought together and why they stayed together. Maybe Mando knew his parents, and promised to look after him. Maybe it was just an unlikely meeting, and Mando couldn’t resist the kid’s charm. You could totally get that.

But before you can ask, the waiter comes around with a hot tray of food, plates steaming atop it. The kid has a little bowl of soup with something sticking out from the bowl, something that was once alive, with tentacles. He looks very excited by the idea of it.

“Are you sure there’s nothing I can get you, sir?” The waiter asks Mando.

“Yes, thank you.”

He nods, gives a respectful half-bow, and leaves you alone again.

The soup you chose smells amazing, and as much as Grogu seems thrilled with his tentacle-ridden dish, you’re glad you went for one that came without a creature you don’t know the name of sticking out. Instead, yours is bright green, a broth of vegetables and regular meat, herbs sprinkled on top, served with a huge hunk of fresh bread.

It smells amazing, and tastes even better.

Grogu sucks the creature out of his bowl in one move, and gulps it down.

“Very impressive, Grogu,” you say, blowing on a spoonful of your own soup. “Was it good?”

The kid nods and coos before lifting up the bowl. He looks at you, watches you blow to cool it down, and then mirrors you, pursing his little lips to blow air onto his hot soup.

“Good job, kid,” Mando praises, and you can hear the smile in his voice.

As you eat, your foot brushes against Mando’s boot under the table. On instinct you pull it back immediately, but after a second, you feel the boot there again, gently tapping against your own. Mando is looking down at his drink, so it could have been an accident.

Either way, you slide your foot so it’s pressed right up against his, and leave it there.

“If you’re not going to drink that,” you say once your bowl and plate are empty, stomach full and satisfied, “can I?”

He pushes the glass across the table towards you. “Go ahead. Is it good?”

“It’s beautiful,” you take a sip and smile. It’s sweet, with the common bitter undertone of alcohol, syrupy as it glides down your throat and warms you from the inside out. “Strong, but good.”

He sits forward in his seat, leaning across the table just a little, forearms resting on it. The backs of his gloved fingers brush against yours where you hold your glass. “Do you want anything else?” He asks, his little finger hooking over yours, smoothing across your knuckle.

You swallow, looking into his visor. You can think of a million other things you want, but none of them involve something the restaurant can give you. They all involve Mando. Mando and his hands, his arms, his body. And, in your wildest fantasies, his mouth.

“I’m okay,” you tell him with a smile, feeling your cheeks start to heat up at your thoughts. “You sure you don’t want to bring any food for the road?” He shakes his head in answer, so you nod, and reluctantly pull your hands away from his. “I’m gonna go to the ’fresher. Be right back.”

“I’ll be here.”

As you walk away, a smile tugs at your lips, warmth blooming in your chest. You know he’ll be there; you know he’ll wait for you. And that’s something you’ve never been sure of with anyone.

The contentment in your bones is interrupted, though, when you suddenly walk into something very broad and hard. You weren’t looking where you were going, too distracted by the memory of Mando’s finger wrapped around yours, and you’ve only gone and walked into a Trandoshan who’s standing in the middle of the restaurant walkway.

“Oh! I’m sorry, I wasn’t looking where I was going,” you look up, finding a lizard-like face turning towards you with an unimpressed glare. They narrow their eyes and fold their arms over their chest, tongue darting out for a second.

“Ssseems like it,” they hiss. “You almosssst made me ssspill my drink, girl.”

You feel small underneath them. “I’m sorry. It was my fault.” You step back, just wanting to get away from their unrelenting glare, but as you turn around without looking first you walk into someone else, and this time it’s accompanied by the smash of a glass, the slosh of liquid spilling on the floor and down your front.

You’ve walked into a Rodian, and spilled their large drink all down their clothes and their feet. Your cheeks are red for a different reason now, embarrassed down to your core, heart racing now that you’ve got two very angry-looking people on either side of you.

“I’m sorry!” You yelp. “It was my mistake, I wasn’t—”

“You jusssst can’t sssstop causing trouble, can you?” The Trandoshan says from behind you. A cold, scaly hand clamps down on your shoulder, right over where it hurts, where there’s still a bandage beneath your sweater.

You cry out in pain, unable to resist the pull of their hand when they spin you around again, their slitted eyes glaring down at you.

“Buy thisss fine Rodian a new drink, and a round for my entire table, and we can forget thisss ever happened,” they hiss.

Wide-eyed, you stare up at them. The Rodian is still behind you; you can feel it, they’re standing so close. You’re trapped between them, and are just about to try and run in one of the directions that they’re not boxing you in, when suddenly you feel the muzzle of a blaster being pressed discreetly to your ribs. You gasp, feeling like your heart just stopped.

“I ssssaid,” the Trandoshan says, “buy us drinks, girl, or else I’ll walk you out of here and make you disssappear.”

Your heart is pounding, blood rushing through your ears. You can feel the drink that you spilled on your shirt where a large splash of it had reached you. It’s cold against your stomach. Your shoulder is agony, the Trandoshan’s hand still clamped on it. It’s like they know you’re injured there. They’re using it, pushing pain into your nerves that would make it near-impossible to move even without the blaster pointed against your ribcage.

“Please, I…I don’t have any credits. It was a mistake, I can help clear it up…”

The muzzle pushes further into you, the hand squeezing your shoulder so hard that it brings a whimper from your throat, tears to your eyes. Your heart drops when you hear the click of the safety on the blaster. Breaths start coming faster than they should, your lungs rising and falling, pushing against the blaster barrel every time your chest expands.

And then, another click.

This time from your left side, the side where the rest of the restaurant curves around into the divided space.

Without moving a muscle, you look towards the sound. There’s another blaster. Except this one isn’t pointed at you, and it’s being held in familiar, gloved hands.

“Let her go,” Mando says lowly, calmly, “let her go, now. She’s with me.”

The Rodian immediately scuttles for cover, running around the corner into the safety of the lounge area. Mando cocks his head as if urging the Trandoshan to follow the very smart Rodian and move the fuck away.

They don’t, though. Instead, they just move their blaster into Mando’s view, pressing it against your stomach now. You grit your teeth against the pain in your shoulder, feeling tears wobbling on the edges of your eyes.

This is all your fault. You’ve fucked up. You were too distracted, not paying enough attention to your surroundings. Mando is going to be furious, he’s probably never going to want you back on the ship again—

“Last chance,” Mando tells the Trandoshan.

Just as a toothy grin splits its green face, there’s the sound of a blaster firing. You gasp, expecting to feel pain burning in your middle. It takes a second for your brain to catch up to the fact that it’s Mando’s blaster that’s gone off; he’s shot the guy in the shoulder, getting him to release yours.

Stumbling backwards, you grab your wound, trying to catch your balance through the blinding rush of relief at the pressure being released.

The guy is still alive, just stunned, and he’s about to lunge for Mando when Mando just punches him right in the throat, then in the face, rendering him unconscious and falling to the ground with a mighty thud.

Mando is next to you in an instant, taking a gentle hold of your good shoulder. “Hey, it’s alright, I got you. Are you hurt?”

Your mind is racing, reeling after what just happened, blaming yourself relentlessly until you absurdly start to think that the two guys were innocent, you made this happen, it was all you, you can’t get anything right—

“Hey, Cyar’ika,” Mando says, dipping his head to try and catch your eyes. “Are you alright? Look at me.”

You can’t. Your eyes won’t focus, either from tears or the fact you feel separate from your body.

Distantly, you feel him push gently at you, one hand coming to the small of your back to guide you towards the refresher. He doesn’t say anything, just leads you to the door at the end of the corridor, quietly takes you both inside and locks the door behind you. It’s all one room with a toilet and sink, an armchair in the corner, silver trim over every accessory and towel in the room. There are plants on shelves, in pots on the floor. You’d admire how fancy it was if panic wasn’t tightening your chest, if you could even blink.

He sits you down on the armchair, then crouches down in front of you. “I need you to answer me,” he says softly, “are you hurt?”

You somehow manage to shake your head. It’s not true, not really; your shoulder has just been squeezed with the strength of a Trandoshan, and you could swear you felt a few stitches popping while it was happening, the wound now feeling sticky and strange beneath the bandage. Your chest is hurting, tightening as your breaths get faster and come quicker.

Then, you look at Mando, and fear strikes in your gut.

He’s going to be furious with you.

You were having such a nice evening, a quiet dinner just the three of you, probably the most normal and mundane thing you’ve done since you met. It was so nice, so calm. And now you’ve gone and fucked it up by being too damn clumsy, too fucking mindless to focus enough to watch where you’re going—

“I’m sorry,” you whimper, “I’m sorry, Mando, I know I fucked up—” You’re waiting for him to yell, to explode, to tell you what an idiot you are. Or, worse, not acknowledge your existence for weeks until you’re so lonely that you’d rather die than exist another second of being invisible—

“It’s alright,” he says softly. “Hey, you didn’t do anything wrong. It’s okay.”

“You should be angry with me,” you tell him, not enough room in your mind to wonder why you’re telling him that, why you want him to be angry at you—it’s all you’ve ever known—“I understand if you can’t forgive me…”

No one has ever forgiven you. Not without consequence. Not without trial. People around you don’t understand mistakes; they just demand retribution, even for things you never even did, let alone things that you did.

“I do, Cyar’ika, it’s okay,” he reaches up a hand to touch your face, but in your panic you push him away, your brain telling you he’s going to hurt you even though you know he won’t, know he would never. But in your eyes right now, he’s not the Mando that you know. He’s not someone you know at all. He’s Them, thinking of the best way they can punish you.

Maybe this is how. Maybe They’re saying they’re going to forgive you, lure you into a false sense of security, a trick to make you feel like you’re safe, only for Them to bring it up again in the future, hold it over you like a cloud…

“Please, just get it out of the way,” you beg him, feeling tears pouring down your cheeks. “If you’re mad, just tell me, don’t use it against me…”

“Sweetheart,” he says, in Basic this time, his voice soft and laced with concern. “Sweetheart, look at me. Here, look right at me.”

Unable to do anything else as your entire body trembles, you look to his helmet, wondering how angry he looks under there.

Except his voice is soft, so soft, concern under every single breath that comes through his modulator, “Hey, Cyar’ika, it’s alright. I promise I’m not mad at you. You didn’t do anything wrong. It’s just me, okay? Just us, we’re here for you.”

It’s then that you look at his lap, where his knee is propped up and Grogu is sitting in his satchel, staring at you with curious, concerned eyes.

The sight of him releases a breath from your lungs, the first good one you’ve been able to let out in minutes. You keep your eyes on him, lift your trembling hand so he can hold it when he outstretches his own. He squeezes, soft, reassuring.

And then, it’s like he’s flooded comfort through your bones. Like the place where his skin touches yours is made of a golden light, peaceful, familiar. Gentle.

You close your eyes, clutching the kid’s hand. He doesn’t try to pull away. Just lets you hold him, lets you feel the overwhelming sense of peace that he is somehow giving to you. It’s like it was when he healed your poisoned wound, except this time, the poison is in your mind.

“Just breathe,” Mando’s voice comes through the quiet.

You nod, doing what he says. Taking shallow breaths, forcing yourself to stop hyperventilating, to bring yourself back to the moment. Your hand that isn’t holding the kid moves up so you can grasp at Mando’s shoulder, the soft part above his pouldron and beside the curve of his neck. You hold on tight, feeling his warmth. Feeling him.

It’s alright. It’s just Mando.

It’s not Them.

“Sorry,” you say again, this time apologising for the panic attack.

He lifts his hand and places it over yours on his shoulder. “It’s alright,” he assures you, soft. “It’s alright. Are you okay? Did they hurt you?”

You shake your head, but say, “He squeezed my shoulder. I think—I think my stitches might have popped.”

“Dank farrik,” he curses. Panic stirs again at his tone, but then he follows it up with, “I should’ve killed him for that.” and it settles again.

Letting yourself fall forward, you press your forehead into his neck, close your eyes again. Your hand is still holding on to the kid, his peace still reassuring you like nothing ever has before. Mando’s hand finds its way to the back of your neck, grounding you. “Can we get out of here?” You ask in a voice thick with tears.

“Of course,” he says. “I had another surprise for you after this, if you’re feeling up to it. I promise it won’t be hard work.”

“A surprise?”

“Sort of.”

A smile twitches at your tear-soaked lips. You push against him just a little harder, then pull away, wiping at your cheeks.

When you leave the restaurant, he doesn’t take you in the direction of the ship. Instead, he leads you down a street that’s just a tiny bit quieter than the others, lit with all kinds of lights, from lamps in windows to street lights to decorative neon signs above stores.

Then, he takes you to a hotel.

Oh.

Not just a hotel room. A suite. With two bedrooms, a kitchen, a living area. You’ve never seen anything like it. Everything is plush and white, edged or decorated with golden thread. The carpets are thick, soft, like nothing you’ve ever felt before. Each wall is either black, white, or gold, decorated with a marble-like pattern that shines in the speeder lights coming in through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

“Mando…” you breathe, disbelieving, as he closes the door behind you.

He shrugs his backpack from his shoulders and places it by the door. You feel his hand gently touch the small of your back, his helmet leaning close to your ear when he asks, “You like it?”

“I…yes,” you laugh. Turn to him, giving him a smile, probably a teary one. Happy tears, this time. You’ve never stayed at a hotel; never been somewhere so comfortable. And no one has ever done something like this for you before. “I…this must have cost a lot of money. Are you sure it’s okay?”

“Karga gave me an advance for those guys who were after the kid,” Mando says, hauling Grogu out of the satchel and in to his arms. “You helped with one of them, I figured this could be your payment. Unless you want actual credits, of course…”

You shake your head. Your throat is tight with tears at the sight of him, standing here in the soft light of the hotel living room, his baby in his arms, his armour shining like he’s something ethereal. “I don’t need credits,” you manage to say past the tears.

He steps closer, reaches out a gentle hand to push some pieces of hair back from your face. For a minute he just lingers there, the very tips of his fingers brushing at the apple of your cheek. You could just close your eyes into the touch, revel in the way it makes you feel, all the thoughts that flood your mind of other places you want his hands to hold you.

“I’m going to put the kid to bed,” he says, dropping his hand. “Then can we talk?”

There’s that shot of panic again, mind going places you don’t want it to—

“A good talk,” he clarifies, probably noticing the sudden wideness of your eyes. “And only if you’re up to it.”

You centre yourself, swallow your nerves. Giving him a reassuring smile, you nod. “Okay. Night, kiddo. Thanks for today.” You give his hand a little appreciative stroke, and he smiles at you, like he knows exactly what you’re talking about.

It takes Mando twenty minutes to get the kid to sleep. His bed is a regular, human-sized cot with soft, white sheets and big, fluffy pillows. It’s a far cry from the hammock in the ship; although, he does seem to like the hammock, and he definitely doesn’t have any concept of fancy things, because he gets Mando to get rid of all of the pillows before he’ll even consider settling down.

The second bedroom is bigger, a huge, four-posted double bed in the centre of it, pressed against a marble wall. A fluffy carpet is spread across the empty space between the foot of the bed and the sofa by the window. Paintings of Coruscant line the walls, and there are twinkling lights on the ceiling.

It’s so beautiful that you don’t think, at first, about the fact that there is now only one bed.

Your heart beats louder at the realisation, thrumming in your ears. Does Mando want you to share it? Are you going to take turns, or maybe one of you will take the sofa?

He breaks you out of your thoughts when you hear the soft click of Grogu’s bedroom door closing, the gentle padding of Mando’s footsteps. When he steps into the bedroom, he finds you standing in the middle of it, staring out at the beautiful view of the city below you.

“Kid’s asleep,” Mando says. He comes to stand beside you, his arm brushing yours.

“He’s probably exhausted after a long day,” you say. “It’s been really fun today. Thank you.”

“I’m just glad it made you happy, Mesh’la.”

Your heart clenches at the word, its meaning. Beautiful. If only he knew.

“Can I take a look at those stitches?”

You nod, and the two of you head out into the living room. Mando fetches a med kit from the bathroom cabinet, then comes to sit beside you on the long, plush sofa. It’s all very square and rectangular, with sharp angles and thin metal legs. But the cushions are fluffy, soft, comfortable. It’s been so long since you felt something like this.

“How much does it hurt?” He asks, setting the medpack on the glass coffee table in front of you.

“Just a little more than usual. That Trandoshan squeezed the fuck out of it the entire time.”

“Asshole,” Mando mutters. You smile a little at that, at the disdain in his voice. You can relate. “Do you mind if I lower your shirt just a little?”

Instinctively, you close in on yourself.

It’s stupid. He’s seen your shoulder before; he patched it up yesterday like he didn’t even notice the bare skin around it. And you know he’s not asking to see you fully naked, or anything. It’s just what he has to do to help you.

So you force yourself to relax, sliding the shoulder of your shirt down your arm, releasing one of the buttons to allow him better access. Like this, all he can see is the fresh wound. No scars.

“Dank farrik. They have popped,” he confirms. “I’m gonna have to stitch it up again. I’m sorry.”

Resigned, you sigh. “Okay.”

As he readies the sutures, he glances at you. The quiet lingers for a moment, your shoulder still exposed to the warm air of the suite. “Can I ask you something?” He questions.

You stare at the side of his head. A nervous nod, “Yes.”

Threading the needle, he says, “Did you think I was going to punish you for what happened back there?”

Your eyes fall closed, forehead wrinkling as tears sting at the backs of your eyes, rising impressively fast from nothing.

“You don’t have to tell me,” Mando assures you, turning back to face you with the sutures ready to go.

“I want to,” you say, finding that you mean it. “Yes, I did think that.”

“You know I would never hurt you, right?” He sounds so concerned, so desperate to get you to hear him. “I need you to know that. I’ll never punish you, I’ll never hurt you. I promise.”

Pulling your bottom lip into your mouth in a futile attempt to control the tears wanting to fall, you nod, your eyes still clamped shut.

“I’m going to start now,” he says quietly, resting one of his gloved hands on your shoulder. “Are you ready?”

You nod again. “Yes.”

The first stab hurts more than you’d expected. A sharp hiss goes through your gritted teeth. It ebbs a little as he keeps going, your body getting used to it.

“I know you’ll never hurt me,” you whisper into his patient silence, “I know that. But in that moment, it’s like…I forgot where I was. Who I was with. I…” a trembling breath comes from your mouth, shaking from your very core. Memories flood your mind as you try to find the words to explain how you became the way you are. Wondering if you even should tell him; if it’s too soon. “Some people in my past treated me like that. Any tiny mistake I made, they’d punish me in some cruel way.”

Mando remains steady and quiet, pulling the thread through your wound with precision, concentration. But you know he’s listening. He’s always listened to you.

And now that you’re saying it out loud, now that the words are forming and falling out into the intimate, private space between you, it feels like something has released. Like a dam breaking, a blockage being pushed through. “I—it was my family. Sometimes, the punishment would come later, not right away. They did it like that just to be cruel. It wasn’t physical—not always, anyway—but, honestly, it felt just as bad.”

He ties the sutures. When he’s done, he keeps his hand on your shoulder, his thumb smoothing softly over the uninjured skin.

You take a shaky breath, and continue, “I’m just so used to messing up. To everything I do being a fucking mistake, something that has to be corrected. Nothing was ever off limits for them. They would reach into every area of my life, everything I cared about, everything that made me me.”

You feel his other hand taking yours, threading your fingers together. Your eyes open, falling to your lap to look at your joined hands. “Sometimes, it’s like I’m still there. Like I never escaped.”

“You’re safe now,” he says softly, trailing the hand on your shoulder up to gently cradle the side of your neck.

You nod. “I know. I know that really. But sometimes I just…revert back to who I was in that time in my life.”

“That’s understandable,” he assures you. “Was it always like that? Even when you were a child?”

“Like I said, nothing was off limits,” you laugh bitterly. A tear falls from your cheek; you lift your free hand to wipe it away. “They controlled every aspect of my life,” you think of your betrothed, the man they tried to force you to be with, all for the sake of their stupid religion, or whatever they called it. A shudder goes down your spine. Words don’t form, won’t; you can’t even imagine getting it out and telling Mando about Him, about how They did everything they could to make it so He was the only man who could ever want you.

You’re shaking before you realise it, Mando’s hand in yours the only thing keeping that hand still. The other is trembling in your lap, your shoulders shaking.

“Sorry, I just—it’s hard. To talk about.”

He leans in, presses his forehead so gently to your temple. Maker, you wish you could feel him. Feel his skin, his warmth, his lips against your skin. Something about the gesture makes you think he feels the same; wishes he could press a real kiss to the side of your head, could push his nose against you and say his words right against your skin with nothing between you.

“You don’t have to tell me,” he says softly. “Thank you for telling me what you have. It means a lot to me that you trust me, after everything you’ve been through.”

“I do trust you,” you squeeze his hand.

He removes his hand from yours in favour of lifting it up to gently stroke at your cheek. Your eyes are still on your lap, his forehead still pressed to your temple. He holds your face in one gloved hand. It’s hard not to feel like this is only half a touch, when you can’t feel his heat.

But it’s enough. Kriff, is it enough.

“You don’t ever have to worry about them again,” he promises firmly, his thumb rubbing circles over your cheekbone. “Even if one day you decide to go back to your planet, and you want to be alone, I’ll still protect you.”

Your heart warms at the promise, and panics at the idea of ever being alone again. You reach up, take a hold of his wrist. Tilting your head, you press a kiss to the leather on his palm, nuzzling your nose against the curve of his fingers.

“Do you know,” he whispers, “how badly I want to kiss you right now?”

Oh, kriff.

A shot of arousal, surprising in the midst of the nerves and warmth and tenderness, goes through your belly. You move back just a little so you can look at him, gaze right into his visor. “You do?”

“Yes,” he replies. He’s still holding your face, his other hand moving to gently hold the back of your neck. Holy fuck, you can somehow feel his warmth even through all that armour, his softness despite the metal and the weapons that cover him. You want to be all over him like the armour, cover him, protect him from anything that would ever cause him harm.

You bring up a hand and place it gently on his chest plate. “Is that something you can do?” You ask, looking right into the darkness of his visor.

The hand on your cheek ghosts down, his fingertips tracing the line of your jaw, down to the sensitive skin of your neck. You shiver, eyelids wanting to flutter closed at the sensation.

“I’m not supposed to take my helmet off, ever,” he says. You start to nod, knowing that already, knowing that you will never ask him to do something against his Creed, but then—“But things are changing.”

You pull back, your brow furrowing. “What do you mean?”

He hesitates. His fingers still absently stroke your skin, almost like he’s trying to comfort himself as much as you. “The kid and I went on quite a journey. I discovered a lot about my people, about…the Creed I was raised in. Not all Mandalorians keep their helmets on.”

This is something you already sort of knew. You have fuzzy memories of meeting Mandalorians when you were a child, and they wore no helmets. But you’d thought that maybe they’d abandoned the Creed, that maybe they were outcasts.

“But you do,” you say, explorative.

“I…always have. Except a few times, for the kid. When I had to save him; when he needed to see my face, before we were separated.”

Your eyebrow raises. “You were separated?”

“For a time,” he says, nodding once. “The Mandalorians cast me out after that. Because I took my helmet off.”

“But…you did it for your kid,” you frown.

“Yes, I did. And for a long time I tried to atone for my failure. But…since then, I’ve become…disillusioned, with some of what I was raised to believe.”

You try not to show your surprise too much on your face, let alone your hope.

You never, ever planned on asking him to break his Creed. Despite your own rocky history with religion, you’d never even considered getting Mando to choose between his own and you.

“I’m not saying I can take my helmet off right away,” Mando says, sounding hesitant, like he’s maybe frowning under there. “Maybe I’ll never be comfortable enough for it. But it’s crossed my mind. Especially since you.”

Something shoots into your chest, something like guilt. “Mando, I’m not asking you to change who you are for me,” you say, pressing both hands against his chest now, holding his armour to make a point. “If who you are comes with this helmet, with this beskar, that’s good enough for me.”

He nods. “I know that,” he says, appreciative, putting his palm back on your cheek. “But, fuck, Mesh’la, there’s so much I want to give you.”

“Mando…”

“I’m not telling you this meaning that I’m going to change who I am for you. I’m just saying that I’m…different, to how I used to be. Everything is different with you, with the kid, and it’s opened up my eyes to something bigger.”

You swallow heavily, feeling that your eyes are wide as you gaze up at him. Your shoulder is still exposed, not even bandaged up yet. You don’t care. You could sit like this forever, until the wound was healed and your skin was wrinkling from age.

“So, if you’ll let me,” he says, “I’d like to kiss you.”

Holy shit. Yes, yes, yes.

Trying your hardest to maintain some level of composure, some level of self-control, you nod a little. “I’d like that,” you say, nostrils flaring as you hold back the excitement and arousal that’s blooming in your chest. “How?”

He brings up his hand from your cheek. Gently, so gently, he touches your eyelid with his thumb, coaxes them shut. A soft gasp escapes your lips as you close your eyes, as the light shuts out and you can’t see anything else, just feel him, hear him, smell him.

You feel his hand moving down your face, tracing over your jaw, rubbing circles into your chin with his thumb. He touches you for just a minute longer as you focus hard on keeping your eyes closed, then he pulls away.

The next thing you hear is a soft, unfamiliar hiss.

Then, breathing. Unmodulated breathing. His breath, brushing softly against your face with every exhale.

Oh, kriff.

He reaches for your hands, lifts them from his chest. He guides them to his face and lets you feel that his helmet is still on, just tilted up so his jaw, lips, and the tip of his nose are exposed to the air. Then he lets your hands settle on his cheeks, and you feel the exhale before you hear it, a release of relief at your touch.

“Cyar’ika,” he whispers. “Can you keep your eyes closed for me?” His voice. That’s his fucking voice. Holy, holy kriff.

You nod without question. Yes, it’s hard to resist opening your eyes when you know that his lips are right there, when you know that you could open them and see half of his face for the first time. But, ultimately, the trust he has in you to let you do this is more important than any of your own desires. You need him to know that he can trust you, need to honour the faith he’s putting into the space between you right now.

His voice is enough to keep you going, too. You’d keep your eyes shut forever if it meant you could hear him speak to you so intimately, nothing there to modulate him.

Gently and carefully, you let your fingers spread out. There’s the hint of a beard on your palm, just a thin covering over his jaw but not his cheeks. A moustache is above his lips. You feel it tentatively, brush your thumb over the hair on his chin.

“Mando,” you breathe, “it’s you.”

He chuckles. You feel the vibration in his face and grab hold of him tighter, wanting to feel it again. “It’s me, Cyar’ika.”

Hearing him say that in his unmodulated voice unravels you from the inside out. You release a shaky breath. Everything is trembling still, except now, it’s not because you’re scared or talking about something horrible. This time, it’s from the sheer effort of holding back from him, of keeping your eyes closed.

You hear a soft sound, two things hitting the ground in quick succession.

It only takes you a second to put the pieces together. When his hands find your face, and, kriff, it’s him. He’s removed his gloves, no leather separating his warmth from yours. Just his skin. Bare skin.

“Mando…” you all but whimper, “you don’t have to…”

“I want to,” he whispers, sounding more sure than you’ve ever heard him. “Can I?”

“Yes,” you answer in an instant. “Yes, Mando. Whatever—whatever you want.”

You feel his smile. His smile. His smile, his smile, his smile.

And then, slowly, he guides your head forward. His head is tilted back a little, making a bit of an awkward angle for him. But it means that when he pulls you in, coaxes you to dip your head a little, tilt it to the side, he has you in just the right place for him to close the distance between you with ease.

And he does.

His lips are so soft. So warm. Gods. Maker. Fuck.

It is, technically, a chaste kiss; top lip to top lip and bottom to bottom.

But it sends a guttural need through your entire body. Because his mouth is on yours. Because he’s here. His moustache is brushing against your upper lip.

He lingers on you for a long, delicious moment. Then only pulls away to open his mouth slightly, coaxing yours open too as he catches your top lip between both of his. You sigh into his mouth, into the soft, slow kiss he gives you. His breath is sweet, familiar and new all at once. His cheeks are so warm beneath your hands, so real.

The kiss is gentle, exploring. It can’t go any further, the two of you barely able to open your mouths much further without your forehead bumping the bottom of his helmet and knocking it off his head.

But it’s perfect.

When he pulls away, you can’t help the sigh that escapes your throat. Both a sigh of relief, and of desperation. It was perfect, it was more than enough. You need more.

“Kriff,” Mando curses softly, his thumb running over your bottom lip, pulling it down just a little. Like he’s memorising its curve. “I’ve never done that before.”

“I couldn’t tell.”

“Really?”

“Really. You could do it again, though, just to make sure.”

He smiles. You feel it on your hands. Then he leans in again, quickly kisses you.

“Mm. Yeah, I think you’re a natural.”

A soft chuckle brushes against your face. “I’m putting it back on now,” he tells you, but then leans back in again like he can’t help it, pecking one last kiss upon your lips, then on your nose.

“Okay,” you whisper.

He takes his hands from your face. A second later, there’s the same hissing noise from before, and he taps at the corner of your eye. “You can open them.”

You do. The visor is staring at you, his bare hands back on your face. “Thank you,” you whisper. “Mando, that was…I wasn’t expecting that. Ever.”

“Me, neither,” he says truthfully. “Thank you. I never thought I’d trust someone enough to do that. You kept your eyes closed.”

You kiss his palm and close your eyes again for just a second, almost pointedly. “Of course,” you whisper. Then, smirking, “I like these bare hands.”

“Oh, you do?” His voice lilts with a smirk. “They’re pretty skilled.”

“Mm. I can imagine.” You slide your hand over his helmet, let it rest at the back of his head. “Think maybe one day you can show me what they can do?”

He releases a shaky breath. His fingertips push past your hairline, carting through your locks with a soft ease that has a shiver running up your spine. “We’ll get there,” he whispers. “I promise.”

And you believe him.

notes: so you might have noticed i've changed the upload schedule for this to just Thursdays. i know that sucks but life is super busy, and i just wanna make sure each chapter is as good as it can be, which means i need more time to edit ❤️ hope you don't mind! i might do the occasional surprise Monday update though :)

as always, reblogs help so much with engagement/reach/my motivation, and i'd love to hear your thoughts if you can ❤️

love you, take care of yourself!

taglist: @toobsessedsstuff @granillx @keepingitlokiii @shoe1412 @kiruoris @quentinor @yourunstablegf @moonknight-s-cumdump @senassn @samanthacookieone @local-fanfic-addict @your-slutty-gf @brilliantopposite187 (this tag never works im so sorry) @whenpugzfly @elsasshole @moony-toasts @julesjewelss36 @jbcalway @mxlsmith @indec1sive @lordhavemurthy @booktvmoviefangirl

ps: reminder that my requests are open, info here ❤️

#din djarin fanfiction #the mandalorian fanfiction #din djarin x reader #din djarin x you #the mandalorian x reader #the mandalorian x you #star wars fanfiction #my fic #my fic: din #i only see daylight #my post: fic #gif cw

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