#I mean we haven't even been seeing each other quite a year yet

[allisonreader]

[nutmeggery]

I need Neil Gaiman to know that Good Omens 2 made me feel emotions I haven't felt in nearly a decade.

When I heard there was going to be a Good Omens 2 I was looking forward to it, of course. I just wasn't expecting it do anything super special to my emotions. I was sure I'd enjoy it, though. I really enjoyed s1.

But, for the last few years, I watched shows and afterwards basically thought well, that was fun, and I quickly moved on and didn't think much about them. There was only about 3 shows in the last 5 years that had made me feel truly emotional and stayed on my mind to the point where I felt like I needed to engage in fandom for a while. (Good Omens 1 was one of them.)

I wasn't spoiled by the leak. I never even knew there was a leak. So I had no idea what was coming in s2. And oh boy...

See, I'd watched Our Flag Means Death, a show where you don't expect the lead characters to kiss, because, well, that never happens in these types of shows, right? And this is important because when they did kiss, it felt like a door that had been locked with just about all the high security locks in the world had suddenly, inexplicably, been opened. Something switched inside me. It took me months to understand what it was, but when I thought about Good Omens before s2 came out, I realized what it was.

I would never truly enjoy a bromance they're-only-queer/in love-by-your-own-interpreation story ever again. Stories where nothing is confirmed, just subtext that anyone who doesn't want to see it can easily deny and mock those who wish it was more.

While it was clear that Crowley and Aziraphale cared a lot about each other in s1, and were probably in love, it was still just a fun ship for fans to play with in fanfiction and fanart. Do they love each other? Oh sure. In what way? Well, that's up to interpretation. Ok, cool. But it's not quite Our Flag Means Death, is it?

Then I watched Good Omens 2. And from episode 1 I saw my favourite Angel and Demon duo love each other. And I was having the best time. I hadn't had such a good time watching a show in a long while. It was not only right up my alley, it was an alley I wasn't even aware was my alley until I saw it. I enjoyed seeing the old characters, the new characters. Oh, I was wonderful.

It was clear to me that, of course Crowley and Aziraphale love each other, are IN love with each other, showing it in their own way. And I wasn't expecting it to be THIS obvious.

And then when the kiss happened, I couldn't believe it. I covered my mouth with both hands and gasped and sat up straight in my seat. I had never expected it--the heartbreak it added to the already heartbreaking scene--it rewired something inside me.

It was like my emotions had been locked up in a stall like a horse for so, so long, and now the gate had been opened, the stable door kicked down, and the horse was running out onto the large pasture into the daylight, bucking and kicking up grass. Oh my god, I have to take a few minutes to process that entire 6 hour marathon of emotions.

And by a few minutes I meant a few days.

More than a few, actually.

I didn't need a kiss to understand how much they loved each other, but I did need the kiss to understand how intense and heartbreaking their separation is for them after everything.

But more than that, the kiss broke a barrier. They really did it, I thought. They really dared.

Aziraphale and Crowley aren't human males, no, but they're played by male actors. And that is significant. That makes the kiss significant. In the world we currently live in.

Weeks later, I'm still obsessed with the show, re-watching s1 and 2, reading the book again, listening to the audio drama. And I'm on tumblr, seeing people's posts and art to somehow sate my hunger for a s3 that doesn't exist (yet).

And I'm having a wonderful time.

[woso-dreamzzz]

Questions

Aitana Bonmatí x Codina!Reader

Summary: You vs Carla the social media manager

You see her coming, eyes wide in fear.

Your teammates haven't seen her yet, wrapped up in their own conversations.

You turn to go but Lucy's got an arm thrown over your shoulder, wrapped tightly around you like an iron bar.

You try to wiggle out of it but you can't.

"Girls," Carla says as she approaches, phone already out to capture content," What's your phone lockscreen?"

You breath a sigh of relief that it's a tame question.

You never quite knew what Carla wanted from you so you thought it best to just ignore her sometimes.

"Me and my sisters," You say plainly.

"Can we see it?"

You think for a moment. "No."

You walk off.

"Oh! Come on, y/n!"

You laugh as you go, waving teasingly as Lucy's caught showing her own lockscreen to the camera.

Carla is your frenemy. You're not the happiest on camera. You don't really enjoy being put on camera and asked silly questions. You're never quite sure how to respond or what kind of response she wants from you.

Carla knows this and you both like to make it a game to see how many times she can catch you out each week.

You're winning at the moment, escaping from her nine times out of ten this week including a fairly daring escape where you leapt over the barriers and climbed the fence to get away from her.

She filmed that too and it circulated through the staff and team groupchat. Someone even sent it to Laia in England so she called you just two nights ago to laugh at you.

But, still, she kind of caught you this time and you're not going to be happy about it.

"Carla get you?" Aitana laughs as you enter the locker room with a frown on your face.

You huff. "I don't want to talk about it."

It's a little embarrassing to talk about it with Aitana. You've been crushing on her for years at this point and you know it's mutual too.

Just neither of you has made the first move yet. This dancing around each other is so you and Aitana that you're not too sure why you would change it.

Aitana can be the one to make the first move.

"You know," She says," You can just admit defeat."

You scoff. "It's almost like you don't know me at all. The day Carla gets me to admit defeat is the day that you finally go on a date with me."

Aitana laughs, winking. "Maybe you should hurry up and admit defeat then."

Your mouth falls open. "Wait, are you being serious?"

Aitana grins, a soft kiss being pressed to your cheek as she disappears out of the room. "Am I?"

You don't have much time to dwell on Aitana's words because training starts and by the time you get home, you've all but forgotten about them.

Your life is blissfully Carla free in the coming days and she doesn't resurface again until Thursday, when you're walking in with Aitana talking to you, one hand around your arm as the other is used to gesture about what's got her so excited.

You spot Carla make a beeline for you and you know that you can't do one of your daring escapes again unless you want to shove Aitana away and you never want to do that.

So, you stay with her and admit defeat to Carla for once in your life.

"Which team member would you not let date your daughter?" She asks and you sigh.

"Er..." Aitana says," Maybe Cata."

"And you, y/n?"

You shrug. "Aitana. Because my daughter can't date their other mother."

Carla laughs, lapping up your answers before sending you both on your way.

Aitana's frowning though and you bump her with your hip.

"Something wrong?"

"Did you mean it? About your kid not dating me?"

"Our kid," You correct with a shrug," Besides, I allowed Carla to ask me a question. I think this means you owe me a date."

Aitana rolls her eyes. "Pick me up at seven. I'd like dinner at some place fancy."

You grin. "You got it."

[gguk-n]

Chapter 2- Secret and Surprises

Unravelling Max's Mystery (Max Verstappen x Online Friend!Reader)

Series Masterlist

Summary- Y/N has lost out on a few of her publication dreams while juggling 2 jobs. Her crush on Max has only led to failed relationships. She dreams of one day meeting and being with Max. But Max has a girlfriend and a career she knows nothing about.

{Reader's POV}

I finally moved out from my parents's place a few years back when I decided to pursue Literature. It was a very difficult time for me but I had Max by my side. Trying to convince my parents that I want to understand the art of writing and then doing what I love was very challenging. I moved to a another city with my dream university. Even today, they detest my choices and hope that I would take my life seriously. It has been difficult but seeing them once or twice a year only has made it easy.

Max and I are still very close. I still have a crush on him; it got worse after we started video calling each other after I moved out. I wasn't about to get 'caught' talking to a guy under my parents's roof. The consequences would be disastrous. Max is still the same, slightly older, has a stubble. I still don't know his full name, but he doesn't know mine either and I don't mind keeping it that way.

Having Max as a friend has hindered quite a few relationships either because they weren't him or they were jealous of some guy I would drop everything for. He still has a horrible sleep schedule, I've scolded him a couple time, but he doesn't listen. However, he has the cutest cats, Jimmy and Sassy. They love their dad a lot; I really wanna get cats too but I'm barely keeping myself alive, I'll kill my pets.

My job pays shitty, I'm a primary school teacher and freelance editor. I had hoped that being an editor for bigger and well established authors would help me improve my writing and get my book or poems published; has yet to happen. All my clients are kind people and very understanding of my predicament. Alas, this doesn't leave me much time in the day; teaching, lesson planning, correcting papers, editing other's stories or poems, talking to Max. Max has gotten pretty good about not disappearing like he did a couple years back. I still have no clue what he does, not like he knows what I do specifically. But he said he does something along the lines of cars; I knew he loved cars. I hope his job pays him better since he moved a few years back when I was still at home. His place looks lavish, either he gets paid well or it's from the company. I will never know. He's seen the shit hole I live in, but has yet to comment on my poor living conditions. I have too much of an ego to let my parents know I am struggling; I would rather starve then let them know. All I would hear is that they were right and I should mend my mistakes. What mistakes should I mend when these were my choices and I'm happy with them.

I've compiled 20 of my poems and even wrote a book, I've sent it to so many publishers in hopes that it will get picked up. This is like my fourth or fifth time. I mean, I haven't exhausted my resources and till the day all the publications shut down I'm not giving up. I've been rejected quite a few time, sometimes at the initial stages or after first reading and preview. They make publishing a book look so easy on shows and movies. I wish it was that easy in real life, but it isn't.

Being on spring break makes it so much easier for a while, till I have to return. However, I can focus on my book and the editing gig since it pays better than teaching. There's this guy I'm editing for currently and he's so annoying. I want to stop working with him except he pays the best. The life of being chained to capitalism. I was fixing up his errors when my phone rang, it was Max on video call. We spoke on video call a lot after I moved out. He's attractive, blue eyes; truly all my weaknesses combined. When the screen popped up, he almost fell out of frame when Jimmy jumped on the phone. Max placed Jimmy on the floor. Max- Hey, Schat. Sorry about Jimmy. Y/N- Hi, honestly I would rather talk to Jimmy. (I laughed) Max- Sometimes, I think you are friends with me for my cats. Y/N- Yeah, I would've stopped being your friend had you not adopted them. Max- Wow! I'm hurt. (He placed his hand on his chest) Y/N- Stop being dramatic. I'm just living vicariously through you. Max- You should get cats too, you seem lonely. Y/N- I wish, I'll end up killing them since I'm so busy. Max- hmmm, I hope you find a companion. I did find a companion Max, every time I get a boyfriend, we break up directly or indirectly because of you I thought. Max- What happened to Finn? I thought he was smitten for you. Y/N- Yeah, things didn't work out. We both were too busy with work. In actuality, when we finally got close after months of talking and the first time we had sex I moaned out Max's name. He left immediately. I wasn't about to tell Max this. It would ruin everything, I believe. Max- What were you doing? Y/N- Editing that ass's book. Max- You know maybe, you should leave some blunders, not the most obvious ones but one's that would make him look stupid. Y/N- I wish Max, he pays me a shit ton to do my job. (I laughed bitterly) It's fine, honestly. I'll be done soon and I'll never have to see him again, hopefully, fingers crossed. Max- I hope so too. Y/N- Max, you should date someone. Instead of worrying about me. I've never seen you date anyone in all the years I've known you. Max- ahh, yeah, I'm too busy with work to do that. Y/N- If we lived closer, I would've set you up with someone. That someone being me, but he doesn't need to know that. We haven't even met yet; we never even spoke about meeting each other honestly. Max scratched his neck, shaking his head. Max- I'm good, schat. You should find someone, maybe you'll stop being cranky. Y/N- I'm not cranky, at least not with you. Max let out a deep laugh. Max- Well, I've got to go. My sister's visiting. I'll talk to you later. Y/N- Sure, say hi to Victoria for me. Bye Maxie!! Max- bye Y/N.

Talking to Max always brightened up my mood. But since, Victoria's visiting, he won't be available to talk as often. That means I'm gonna have to spend all my free time scrolling through Instagram. It's all fun and games until I'm on hour 6 of some random video on Youtube. I spent the next couple of days cooped up in my home, just to enjoy waking up late. There were still a few months still summer break and I intended on enjoying them to the fullest.

School started way to soon for my liking. Max would send pictures of Jimmy and Sassy to cheer me up. It did cheer me up. Max travelled a lot for work, I've seen quite a few hotels and I think they are 5 star hotels. So, his work place is rich rich. I wish Max would hire me, I lamented, maybe then we might meet. I've thought about meeting him but he never showed any inkling that he would like to meet me. I wasn't about to seem desperate; I would probably jump him if I did. I mean he is single, so it's fine.

When the school started after spring break, I got handed a new author to help edit her work. I spoke to her and she was very nice to talk to. The book she was writing was based off a sport. On further questioning, she told me it was Formula One. I had heard about it when my city hosted a Formula E race a couple years ago. I don't remember much because I'm not sure if they held it again but what I can tell you is that traffic got so bad, I hated leaving the house for a couple of days. I don't really see the appeal of watching people go around in a circle in fast cars. I think I would panic if I found out how fast they drove. The author asked me to do some research on the topic. I was a good student and I wanted to be of help, so I decided to spend the next couple of hours going through Formula One and their rules.

There's something I have to clear up, I have a type of blindness bias. If I'm not interested in a topic, it would be like I live under a rock. Nothing could phase me and I couldn't care less. That's how I ended up on the wikipedia article of Lewis Hamilton, Micheal Schumacher and then current champion Max Verstappen. Schumacher and Hamilton were very good, reading about them made me awe struck. What really shocked me was a guy named Max Verstappen, who looked awfully like Maxie. I've stared at Maxie more than I would like to admit, so I'm sure they look alike. As I went through the article, my heart seemed to beat harder; not sure why. I felt like this was my Maxie however I believed that Maxie would've told me if he was a Formula One driver. I had to lay my doubts to rest, so I ended up on Youtube with the search bar reading Max Verstappen. My doubts laid to rest in a place I didn't want them to; Maxie was Max Verstappen. I could recognise that voice anywhere. He talked a lot, I could recognise his voice in a crowd of people or in my sleep. All my suspicions were cemented when I saw a picture of 2 cats who looked like Jimmy and Sassy and were called by the same name. My heart was ready to jump out of my chest. Max had lied to me; but was it really lying when I never prodded him for answers. Worst of all, he had a girlfriend and a kid. That's when I felt I was lied too. How could he not tell me? I would've genuinely been happy for him. We would've celebrated his 2 championship wins. My throat felt dry and my eyes wet.

Life wasn't fair when I've been trying to get my book published while my best friend, don't even know if I can call him that, is a 2 time world driver champion. He never even told me, while he has been in Formula One almost all our friendship and karting all his life. I felt the ground slipping from under my feet. Was I that unimportant to not share such a crucial part of his life or huge accomplishment in his life? Was I even his friend? All these questions raced through my mind, while tears streamed down my cheeks. The pillow wet from my tears when my phone rang. It was Max on the other line, and for the first time in 10 years I did not answer his calls even though it rang for a 4-5 times. He finally stopped after sending me a couple of worried messages; asking how I was and where I was?

[Max was freaking out. Y/N never missed his calls, no matter the time or place. Worst of all, she didn't even reply to his messages; not after 5 minutes or 10 minutes or 20 minutes. Max didn't know where she lived, he didn't know who to call, or who to ask about her. His hair was a mess, he was pacing the room so much so, that his girlfriend’s daughter asked him what happened. He couldn't tell them, no one knew of this secret internet friend he had. Who was he supposed to contact to file a missing person's report? He tried to calm himself down and think happy thoughts but all his thoughts were Y/N]

[lousypotatoes]

Song Recommendation:

Singin' In The Rain - Gene Kelly

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11

Playlist

90 years ago...

Soft jazz music played in the dimly lit club. People all around were dancing, drinking, and laughing. 

At the bar, stood a woman, taking a long drag off her cigarette, waiting for her date. She wore a green flapper dress, white satin gloves, and had the most beautiful blonde hair and blue eyes.

"This gent better hurry up," she muttered, taking another drag off her cigarette. 

"Can I get you anything, miss?" the bartender asked. 

"Just a little martini please," you said, keeping your eyes on the door.

"Right away, miss,"

As the bartender made her martini, she looked around the club, seeing people dance and having her fun with their friends. 

'I wish I had people like that,' she thought. 

"Here's your martini miss," the bartender said, snapping her out of her thoughts. 

"Thank you sir," she said, pulling out some dollar bills out of her purse and placing them on the counter. 

"Apologies for the delay, Gloria," said a voice. She turned her head and saw her date walking towards her. "I hope it didn't cause you any inconvenience, darling."

"It weren't no bother, Edward," she said, a fake smile on her face. "I already ordered from the speakeasy, hope you don't mind." 

"I don't mind one bit, sweetheart," Edward said, looking her up and down. "You're looking mighty fine this evening," 

Her eye twitched. She hated men like this. "Why thank you," she said. "It took me quite a while to get all dolled up like this."

"It surely was worth the effort," he said, licking his lips. "Care for another round, Gloria?"

"No thank you," she said chuckling. "I haven't even polished off my first one yet,"

"Suit yourself, darling," he said. "Hey barkeep, mind pourin' me some whiskey?"

"Care to dance?" Edward slurred, finishing his sixth glass of whiskey. She could smell the alcohol on his breath. "I promise I won't bite, doll," 

She bit the inside of her cheek. She really hated having to deal with people like this, but it was her job, and she couldn't turn the money it offered. 

"Ain't no harm in it, I suppose," she said, putting down her glass. "I'm a little bit rusty when it comes to dancin'." 

"No worries sugar. As long as I'm tanglin' with you, I'm alright," Edward said, grabbing her arm. "Say, I could show you a thing or two," he said suggestively. 

She had to hold back a laugh. Men like this really were simple creatures. "If you play your cards right, who knows what might unfold," she said, winking at him. 

This caused Edward to smirk. "Alright then, let's see what the night brings us, shall we?" 

"We shall,"

After two hours of dancing, talking, and drinking, all that she learned about Edward was that he was self absorbed asshole. He never asked her about herself, instead just talking about how much sex he'd had. 

"The dough better be worth puttin' up with this jerk," she muttered, as they swayed on the dancefloor, their bodies pressed up against each other. 

"What's that, sweetheart?"

"I reckon it's high time we go back to your place," she got on her tip toes and whispered in his ear seductively. "Don't ya think, Ed?"

"It's about time you asked, darling," he said, squeezing her ass. "You'd be downright stunning with all those threads off."

"Sounds like a plan," she said, removing herself from his grip. "Let's blow this joint,"

"Oh Ed," you panted, your back up against the alley wall. "Shouldn't we wait till we get to your pad?"

"I've been waitin' all night already," he growled, nipping at your neck. "Ain't waiting no more."

"That's what I was hopin' for," she said. 

"What's that supposed to mean, doll?" he said, still nipping at your neck. 

BANG!

With a scream of pain, Edward slumped onto her, but she just pushed him off her and onto the ground. 

"Men like you, they turn my stomach, see," she said, polishing off her gun with her dress. "Ain't that a hoot? You really thought I was into you." 

Edward was writhing in pain. He tried to get up, but she just kicked him back down. 

"Who-" he sputtered, blood coming out of his mouth. "Who- Who the hell are you?" 

"Well, I'm not Gloria, that's for certain," she smirked, putting her finger back on the trigger. "I'd sure love to stick around I chat, but unfortunately, I cannot. 

She aimed the gun at his head. "It's been a real pleasure knowin' ya, Edward."

"Wait! Please don't sho-"

BANG!

Edward's head lolled to the side, his eyes lifeless. 

"Serves ya right, you filthy pervert," she said, putting her gun back into the strap under her dress. 

She moved Edwards body further down the alley. Nobody would find him till morning. 

"Damn! He got blood all over my new shoes," she said, walking out of the alley. "Guess I'll have to get them cleaned proper."

The walk home was uneventful, besides men hitting on her. She felt very calm and at peace.

Everybody in town knew her as the sweetheart who owned the most popular flower shop in New Orleans. "Oh, if only they knew," she said to herself, giggling as she opened the door to the 'Employees Only' room to her flower shop. 

Stepping inside, she heard the barking of her Yorkie. "Honey!" she exclaimed, scooping up the dog in her arms. "Oh, I missed you so much, my love!"

She put her back down on the couch and went over and turned on the radio. "We'll go home as soon as finish some work up." she said to the snoring dog, as she carefully took out her blue contact lenses, revealing E/C eyes. 

The phone started to ring, walking over to answer it, she took off her blonde wig and set it on her big, oak desk. 

"This is Y/N, to whom am I speakin' to?" she asked, ruffling her fingers through her H/C hair. 

"This is Winston," a deep voice said. "Did you off him?" 

"Well that all hinges on you, Mr. Winston," she said, sitting down. "You got the dough?"

"Yeah, I got the dough,"

"How much?"

"One thousand,"

"Wonderful!" she exclaimed. "Let's rendezvous at Broussard's at noon tomorrow. Does that work for you?"

"I suppose so yes,"

"Marvelous! Till then, Mr. Winston," she said, as she hung up the phone. 

She didn't like the song that was playing on the radio. Picking up the phone once again, she dialed the radio station number. 

"You've reached Alastor Altruist!" said the voice at the other side of the line. "To whom do I have the pleasure of speakin' to at this late hour?" 

"The names Y/N," she said into the phone. "It's a pleasure to meet you sir."

"What a beautiful name you have, Y/N," he said, making her smile. "The pleasure's all mine, I assure you."

"I was hopin' I could put in a request for a song?" she asked. "If it's no trouble, of course."

"Why it's no trouble at all, my dear!" he exclaimed. "What's on your mind?" 

"Singin' In The Rain by Cliff Edwards," she said, "It's a wonderful song."

"It's a real classic, ain't it?" he said. "You'll be hearin' it right after this song,"

"Thank you so much," she gushed. 

"You're quite welcome, dear," Alastor said. "Have a good night, Y/N."

"You as well, Alastor," she said, hanging up the phone. 

There was something about each other's voice that the both of them enjoyed. They both hoped they would hear it more often. 

I really wish I was in hell with him right now :(

this banner was made by the lovely @al-of-the-stars i'll be usin it for the rest of this fanfic

stay safe and drink lots of water <33

xoxo, Izzy

[starstruckmiraclekitty]

Date With Your Lieutenant

Simon Ghost Riley X Afab Reader

Note: This is my first smut, so it's not as good as I'd like it to be. Apologies if it isn't good!

As always, if there's anything you'd like me to write, feel free to send a request!😊

Warnings: swearing, p in v sex, oral (m and f receiving), fingerings, cream pie----MDNI!!!

To say that you were nervous was an immense understatement. You found yourself pacing around your bathroom, constantly checking back to your reflection in the mirror. You were wearing minimalist makeup, had loose curls cascading down your the middle of your back, and had a floral blouse with tight jeans on. Every time you looked back to your reflection, you ended up touching up your makeup or fixing a stray hair. Any minute now, your Lieutenant would arrive at your home to pick you up for a date.

You and Ghost had danced around each other's feelings for nearly the entirety of your years working together. Both of you had mutual feelings for each other, but neither one of you had the courage to act on it. Until one night, when he had a little liquid courage (and Soaps incessant pestering), Ghost decided to make his move and ask you out on a proper date.

A knock at your front door had pulled you from your thoughts. If you were nervous before, that paled in comparison to how you were feeling now. It's just Ghost, you thought to yourself. I have no reason to be nervous. However it was not Ghost who was standing at your door, it was Simon Riley, someone who hadn't shown himself to you fully, save for the small moments here and there throughout your working relationship.

You walked to your front door, and wiped your sweaty palms on your jeans. "Grow a pair, Y/N." You told yourself, as you opened the door.

The sight that welcomed you, had melted your insides. Simon was standing in front of you, in a nice sweater, jeans and combat boots. What had really got you, was the fact that he wasn't wearing a mask. You had yet to see him without his signature balaclava, but you were not disappointed in the slightest. His light brown hair had been styled neatly, his face cleanly shaven. He had freckles that littered his slightly crooked nose, and his eyes were even more stunning now that they were unobscured by the black paint he usually wore.

"You alright? You look as if you've seen a ghost." Simon's cheeky remark had pulled you from admiring his features.

"Heavens, Riley. If that's your opening line, I'm in for quite the night." You rolled your eyes playfully, your nervous giggle betraying the confidence you were trying to convey.

" 'm teasing love, you look beautiful by the way." He said bashfully, as he stretched his hand out to you. In your deep admiration of his features, you had failed to notice he was holding a bouquet of flowers in his hand the entire time.

"Oh! They're so pretty, Simon. Thank you!" You exclaimed, grabbing the bouquet from him. You had never been given flowers on a first date before, and needless to say, you were even more enamored with the man in front of you because of it. "Soap had lied to me, said you looked like E.T. under your mask."

Simon had let out a hearty laugh at your statement, as your eyes widened at what you just said.

"Oh my God! I didn't mean to say that. It was a joke on his part, but saying it out loud sounds so insensitive, I'm so sorry."

"I ought to ring Johnny's neck for that one, haven't I." Simon waved away your apologies, with a shit eating grin on his face.

"You and I both." You agreed. "Come in! I'll go put these beautiful flowers in a vase, and we can head out?"

"Sounds good." He hummed, as he walked into your flat. As you went into your kitchen, Simon took in his surroundings. Your flat wasn't small by any means, but it was undeniably cozy. You had updated furniture and appliances, pictures of family and friends lining the walls, and it appeared to him that you took very good care of your home.

"It's not much, but it's home. My friend always does a great job looking after it when I'm on duty." You said softly as you entered the living room, noticing him looking around.

"It's nice. It's exactly what I'd expect your home to look like." Simon replied, turning around to meet your eyes.

"I hope that's a compliment?" You giggled.

"Of course it is. Shall we head out?" He asked, offering you his arm.

You nodded meekly, taking his arm. A blush had come to heat your cheeks as you were reminded again, that you were about to go on a date with the man you've been in love with for years.

—----------------------------------------------------------

Simon had taken you to a small fancy Italian restaurant about 15 minutes from your flat. You were frankly shocked that he had chosen this place, as it was often incredibly busy, and nearly impossible to get a reservation unless you booked a month in advance.

He had proven himself to be the utmost gentleman, as he held open your car door, held the front door open for you, and had even pulled your chair out for you inside the restaurant.

After you had both ordered your drinks and food, you found yourself staring at Simon with a smile on your face. You were still in awe of how he looked without the mask, and you couldn't deny you were even more attracted to him than you had been before.

"Stare any longer, and your eyeballs may just fall out." Simon chided, earning a chuckle from you.

"Sorry, I can't help it. You're quite handsome." You replied, nervously tucking a hair behind your ear.

"That so? What would you have done if I looked like E.T., as Soap called it?" He joked, his playful tone drawing a smile to your face.

"Well, then I would've said it's a good thing I liked you for your personality first."

"I've been told my personality is.. lacking some desirable traits."

"Well they just haven't got to know the man beneath the mask. I'm sure anyone who sees what I do would be as pleasantly surprised as I was when I first started peeling back some of those layers. I'm excited to see what else I can learn about you." You admitted, taking a sip of your wine.

Simon smiled at your admission, as he reached across the table to stroke your hand with his thumb. “I’m just glad you’re giving me the chance to show you.”

“So what do you get up to, when you’re on leave?” You asked.

“Little bit of this, a little bit of that.I usually do some housework for my neighbors, like to go to the local farmers market every once in a while. I suppose my life outside of work is pretty mundane.”

“Anything is mundane compared to what we do on the field. You’ll have to take me to the farmer’s market one day, I’ve always wanted to go to one.”

“Sure. The one by my place always has a great selection, depending on what you’re looking for.”

“I don’t know why, but it’s hard to view you walking around a farmer’s market.” The thought had made you giggle.

“Oh, let me tell you. The old ladies there love me.” He grinned.

“Now that I have to see. Simon Riley being doted on by little old ladies.” You covered your mouth to stifle your amusement.

“What about you?” He asked.

“Oh! Well, I consider myself pretty crafty. I’ll knit, I paint sometimes when I have an itching to do it. Usually I just try to surround myself with friends and family.” You said, as the waitress came over with your food.

“Ah, forgot about your crafty side. Never thanked you properly for fixing my mask a few weeks ago.” Simon said.

“I think this is thanks enough. This food looks great, I can’t believe you got a reservation here! It’s been here for years, and I’ve never had a chance to try it, it’s always too busy.” You replied, your mouth watering looking at the pasta in front of you.

“I have my ways.” He chuckled, meeting your inquisitive gaze.

“Oh now I have to hear this!” You laughed.

Dinner had gone on for what felt like hours, conversation flowing naturally for the two of you. The small tidbits that Simon had given you about his personal life had you falling harder for the man than you had anticipated you would, especially after your first official date. Once you both had had your fair share of food and drink, Simon had driven you home. During the ride, you had shown him a few different bands you were into, and he had made a mental note to try listening to them on his own.

—-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As you walked up to your doorstep, you turned to Simon with a small smile. "I really had a nice time tonight Simon. I'm glad we did this, really."

"That makes two of us, love." He bowed his head, trying to hide the redness in his cheeks at your words. "I'll see you soon?"

"Absolutely, I'd love that. You still owe me a trip to that farmers market." Your smile grew bigger at his shyness.

He gave you another nod, and returned your smile, then turned back to walk to his truck.

"Simon?"

He turned around at the mention of his name, meeting your sheepish stare. "Yeah?"

"I thought first dates usually end with a kiss." You said softly, so softly Simon was glad he was actually able to hear it.

Simon's smile had grown ten times at your comment, and he strode up to you, your faces inches apart. "That so?"

"I mean, only if you want. I don't want to for-" you were cut off by Simon's lips pressing against yours. His lips were rough, but the kiss was surprisingly gentle. Once you had regained your senses, you reciprocated the kiss and wrapped your arms around Simon's neck.

"I've been wanting to do that for awhile, just trying to be a gentleman." He said as he pulled away breathless.

"Well lucky for both of us, I'm no gentleman." You replied, shocking yourself at your sudden confidence.

Simon looked at you with the cheekiest grin you'd ever seen on him, and he pulled you back into a kiss. The kiss was deeper this time, as he grabbed onto your hips and pulled you closer. Your arms which were still around his neck had squeezed together, and your hands had moved to his hair, threading the strands softly.

As the kiss continued, Simon's hands started to move slowly down to your backside, and he lightly squeezed the flesh there. "Perhaps we should go inside, don't want to give my neighbors a show." You said breathlessly, pulling away for just a moment to look Simon in the eyes, hoping he'd pick up on your hint.

"As you wish m'lady." He said, grabbing the backs of your thighs and lifting you into his arms.

You squealed in delight, wrapping your legs around his toned midsection, as he walked into your flat closing the door behind him.

The two of you had resumed your heated makeout, pulling away only to instruct Simon where your bedroom was.

He gently tossed you on your bed, smirking slightly as he watched your form bounce a few times from the impact.

"Are you gonna stand there and stare at me, or are you going to come over here and kiss me again." You said, still shocked at the confidence that was emitting from you. You weren't sure it was the wine flowing through your system, or the fact that you were desperate for Simon to touch you.

"Someone's bossy, maybe I should make you wait." He chided, climbing over your form on the bed.

"Please, Simon." You looked up at him, your eyes not betraying the lust you were feeling.

"Since you asked so nicely." He cooed, leaning down to capture your lips in his. You wrapped your arms around his neck again pulling him down closer to you. Simon took the opportunity to run his tongue along your bottom lip, and you had opened your mouth to allow his tongue to slip in. As the kiss deepend, his hand slid from your head, down to your clothed breast and gave it a squeeze. You threw your head back and let out a soft moan at the contact.

"Y/N, love. I need you to look at me, and tell me that you want this." Simon said, the sternness in his voice grabbing your attention immediately.

"Simon, yes. I want this. I want you." You begged, looking deeply into his dark brown eyes.

Seeing that there was nothing but the truth in your eyes, Simon lifted your form slightly off the bed to remove your shirt, leaving you in your bra and pants. He leaned down and kissed the valley in between your breasts, using both hands to palm at each breast. You arched your back, whimpering slightly at his touch, and he slid his hands behind your back to unclasp your bra.

“Fucking hell, you’re perfect.” He mumbled as he threw the bra into a random corner of your room. He bent his head down, and latched his mouth onto your breast, while his hand massaged at the other. He gave your nipple a soft bite, and promptly moved onto your other breast, continuing the same movement he had on the other.

Your hands latched onto his head, as you struggled to keep your composure at his actions. He moved his head back up to nip lightly at your neck, and you were sure it would leave a mark by morning. Satisfied by the mark forming on your neck, Simon slowly moved his way down your body, kissing every inch of exposed skin he could. When he got to the waistband of your pants, he looked up at you, his eyes far darker than they were a bit ago.

“May I?” He asked, his fingers lightly tracing the skin above your pants. You simply nodded in response, giving him the okay to continue.

He smiled at this, and started to unbutton your jeans, moving them slowly down your legs, leaving you in the lace underwear you had put on only hours earlier. You weren’t expecting for this to happen tonight with Simon, but you were glad you threw these on as a just in case.

“Cute.” He chuckled, admiring the panties. He hooked his fingers on the band of them, and proceeded to pull them off of you, leaving you completely bare to him.

You suddenly grew shy, as you were completely naked, and he was still fully clothed. You subconsciously squeezed your thighs shut, and your heart rate increased tenfold.

“Nuh uh. None of that. You are beautiful Y/N. Let me show you that.” He spoke, as he came up to give you a soft kiss.

You unclenched your thighs, and took a deep breath, letting him look at you. “Fucking beautiful thing you are.” He said quietly, moving to lay in between your legs.”You’re so wet for me already.” He kissed the inside of your thighs, making you grow even wetter by the second. You looked down to see his eyes already on you, and the moment you made eye contact with him, he pressed a kiss to your core.

“S-Simon.” You gasped, throwing your head back onto your pillows.

Pleased with your response, Simon ran his tongue alongside your folds, painstakingly slow, savoring your taste. “Jesus, you taste amazing.” He groaned. He then picked up his pace, licking at your heat fast, not giving you a second to breathe. Your back arched from the sensation, prompting him to put an arm on your midsection to hold you still.

“Oh my god, feels so good.” You cried, throwing your hands into his hair and tugging. Simon groaned at this, and moved a finger down to your core, to stroke your folds as he caught his breath.

“Yeah? I won’t stop then.” He said with a cheeky grin, slipping his slender finger in you, as his mouth latched back onto your clit with a fervor he didn’t have before. Between the movement of his tongue on your clit, and his finger pumping into you, you were seeing stars. You had never felt this good just having someone go down on you, no, Simon knew what he was doing. He was unraveling you with just his mouth and finger.

The closer you felt yourself to release, the harder you fought against Simon’s hold. The pace he had set was brutal, it was like this was his first meal in years, and he couldn’t get enough. The noises that your pussy was making, mixed with the sounds of his mouth were obscene, and was pushing you closer to your first orgasm of the night. It amazed you that this was your first time with him, and yet he knew exactly where the right spots were for you. His tongue relentlessly flicking your clit, and his finger curling at just the right spot to make your brain go blank.

Just as you were focusing on trying to last a little longer to enjoy the sensation, Simon had added a second finger, and you were gone. You cried out as your orgasm had hit you hard, fully fighting against Simon’s grip and squeezing your thighs around his head. This did not deter him however, from finishing out your orgasm. He took everything you had to offer, licking up every ounce of arousal from your heat.

You were trying to catch your breath, your head thrown back to your pillows, when Simon finally pulled away, wiping his face of your remaining juices. He chuckled at your form, as you were still trying to come down from your orgasm. He leaned up to press a kiss to your lips, and you returned the kiss deeply.

Finally regaining your senses again, you rolled the two of you so that you were on top. You smiled down at him, and instructed him to take off his shirt. As he did, you caught yourself slack jawed at his torso. There were scars that had littered his chiseled abs, painting the picture that this man had been through hell and back. You ran your fingers along the raised skin, and leaned down to place a kiss on each scar you could find. You could feel Simon relax under your touch, and he leaned his head back with an arm tucked behind his head to watch you.

You met his eyes, as you started to fumble with his belt. In one swift motion you had his pants off leaving him in nothing but his boxer briefs. You could now see the imprint of his hardness through the material, and it made your mouth water. He was bigger than you had anticipated him being. You looked to him while toying with the band of the fabric, silently asking for permission. He nodded and his breath hitched as you pulled them down his legs. Your eyes widened, now able to see him entirely, and he grew flustered under your intense gaze.

Smiling to yourself, you muttered "pretty" before taking his length in your hand, and swiping your tongue at his tip, collecting the pre-cum there. Simon tensed at this, and let out a breathy moan. "F-fuck."

Taking this as your cue to continue, you sank your mouth down on his length as far as you could go, using your hand to get what you couldn't with your mouth.

Simon's hands flew to your hair lightly grabbing it, guiding your head. You could hear soft grunts emitting from his mouth, and you were loving it. You decided to pick up the pace moving your hand and mouth faster, swirling your tongue around his tip each time your mouth moved.

He pulled your head up suddenly and pulled you up to his lips. " 'nough of that. I gotta feel you." He breathed on your lips, flipping you both so you were underneath him.

"You're sure?" He asked, his tip prodding at your entrance. His forehead was touching yours, and you felt his warm breath on your face.

Instead of replying verbally, you nodded and pulled his face down to yours to kiss him again.

He reached down to guide himself into you, and the both of you let out moans at the feeling. He was barely in, and your walls were already burning from the stretch he was causing. He sank slowly into you, pulling away from the kiss to watch your expressions.

You squeezed your eyes shut, trying to take a deep breath. You had never been with someone his size, and you've never felt this full before. The stretch was heavenly, and as the pain started to fade, you felt yourself squirming underneath him, trying to get him to move.

Simon had taken the hint, and slowly started moving his hips. "Fucking hell, you feel so good sweetheart." He groaned in your ear.

You wrapped your legs around his waist, allowing him to go at a deeper angle. At this, Simon picked up the pace. His thrusts started to become faster, burying himself to the hilt with each snap of his hips.

"Simon, oh- oh my god." You cried out, tears forming in the corner of your eyes from the pleasure.

"That's it, taking me so well." He cooed, not relenting the brutal pace he had set. He looked down to see your heat swallowing his cock whole, and the sight nearly set him over the edge.

Your nails raked down his back, and you were sure you drew some blood with the force. You were so close, any moment now you knew you'd find your second orgasm.

"Simon please, so close." You whimpered.

"I'll get you there love. Cum with me yeah?" He asked reaching down in between your bodies, finding your clit and rubbing it harshly.

"Fuck!" You moaned out, digging your nails further into his back.

"Jesus, I'm almost there. Fuck." He grunted, picking up the pace even more, leaving you nearly unable to catch your breath.

"Simon!" You cried, the coil in your belly snapping, as you found your second release of the night.

Simon wasn't far behind, "Where sweetheart?"

"Inside me, please. I'm safe." You gasped out.

He growled at that, and with one final thrust you felt him spill out inside you with a long breathy moan. "Fuckkking hell."

As he caught his breath, you let out a chuckle and laid your hand on his cheek. Simon looked down at you with a tired smile, and pressed a kiss to your forehead.

He slowly pulled out of you, leaving you feeling empty. "Be right back love."

He went into the bathroom and returned with a damp cloth, carefully wiping around your heat taking extra care to not rub too harshly.

He tossed the rag aside and pulled you into his arms. "You okay?" He asked, pressing his lips to your shoulder.

"Never better." You said , turning your head to plant a kiss on his lips. "Will you stay the night?" You were hopeful he would, but didn't want to push him past what he was comfortable with.

"If you'll have me, I'd love to."

You smiled to yourself, and curled yourself into Simon's chest, the tiredness taking over quickly. “Always.”

—-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

.

You awoke the next morning, still locked in an embrace with Simon. You blinked the sleep away, and turned your gaze to him, to already find him looking at you.

“Good morning.” You murmured.

“Mornin’, sleep well?” He asked, brushing a stray hair from your face

“Best I have slept in months.” You admitted.

“Tis a good thing then, I was thinking maybe we could grab some breakfast, and I can take you to that farmers market?” He looked down at you, a hopeful look on his face.

“Yes! I can’t wait to see these little old ladies who supposedly love you so much!” You exclaimed, jumping out of bed to go get ready.

Simon chuckled at your excitement. As he watched you get ready, Simon Riley knew that he was madly in love with you and couldn't wait to see what was in store for the two of you.

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

Thanks for reading!! I hope you enjoyed it😊😊

[husbandhoshi]

[3:36 PM]

you don't think there's a better couch in the world than vernon's.

it's blue-gray and you think it's been through several world wars even though you remember the exact moment you picked it out at the local ashley furniture two years ago. there's a hole in the right-most cushion (from when vernon tried to kill a spider with a pen), and mascara stains (yours) you haven't quite figured out how to remove yet, but it is one of your favorite places in the world.

and quite frankly, it's the only place you want to be sometimes—especially now.

"vernon," you wail. "i think i'm destined to die alone. i'm going to adopt a million cats, move out of the city, and die alone."

you watch him fumble with his phone as he attempts to text the doordash guy the apartment code while juggling a box of tissues and your favorite four dollar trader joe's wine.

"hey," he says, as if attempting to calm a wild horse. "you know that isn't true."

he dumps his armful of crisis objects on the coffee table before taking a seat on the couch next to you.

this is the usual order of things.

somehow, you, local disaster, had befriended vernon, the most normal person in the world. and this—the wine, the doordash, the sad sza playlist he made you the week you met—somehow became a familiar ritual of yours. (even one you look forward to, seeing as you don't seem to run out of disasters.)

"he's an asshole," vernon supplies unhelpfully. "don't let it get to you."

"it's getting to me. it got to me. i've been gotten." you bury your head in your hands.

"you really deserve better." he takes some tissues out of the box and pats you on the shoulder, visibly searching for the right words to say.

quite honestly, vernon has never handled these situations with ease. he doesn't get worked up like your girl friends, and he doesn't throw his arms open for a long cry like your mom would. but he handles them, and you, with more patience than you ever think you deserve, and you think that's why you love him so much.

"who gets stood up on a hinge date?!" you snort into a tissue. "we had been talking for weeks!"

vernon shrugs as he wiggles the wine cork out of the bottle. "it just means you guys weren't right for each other."

you wad up your kleenex stack and vernon hands you another.

"i'm deleting hinge. and tinder. and bumble. and then i'm getting a cat."

"okay," he laughs. "i'll go with. i'll get one too so they can be friends."

"deal," you croak as you watch vernon stand up to get the delivery. "please tell me you got nacho fries."

"i got you two. with extra cheese sauce."

for the first time today, you laugh. you laugh big and loud because no one in the world knows you better than vernon, and you don't even think he knows it.

he looks at you, head tilted and eyebrows knit together like you've started speaking in tongues. you think he gives you that look at least once a day, and you wouldn't have it any other way.

you laugh again.

[thefiery-phoenix]

Hi I have been reading all your works and I'be got to say that its really good I mean like wow anyways I would like to request a platonic y'know fix with the oldies of lookism I mean Charles and tom Lee meeting up and Charles bragging about his child (the reader) there new awards , involvement in the business or you can do the geniuses instead of the reader being a genius she's named as the prodigy and is literally so smart like 400 IQ type shit and she literally saves the company's reputation, every genius admits shes smart and kinda like a learning genius where she doesnt have to copy it but masters whatever she wants to learn isnt a copy genius btw but can you like make the personality of the reader a bit like James like reserved nonchalant etc anyways thank you

Hello and thank you for liking my work, it really does mean a lot to have your support❤️

THE PRODIGY

"Long time no see Choi'' spoke a hulking and imposing man that stood tall and towered over the frame of the CEO of the HNH group as Charles glanced up from his newspaper to see none other than Tom Lee, the owner of the White Tiger Job Centre (Baekho HRM), known for being the best in the business to get rid of people in a sneaky and quick manner. "Oh please, you act like we haven't seen each other in years when we just met 2 months ago'' scoffed Charles slightly but a small amused smirk formed on his face. "You look happy...whose life did you screw over, you old crone?" chuckled Tom as he took out his grey bottle from his trench coat pocket and gulped a large sip of his alcohol from it. "Oh come now, you act like I'm a criminal or something...but I didn't screw anyone over yet...for now'' said Charles as he headed over to the table nearby and shuffled a few papers till a picture of you fell out from the stack of papers as Tom's interest piqued up and peered at your picture in an interested manner

"I didn't know you started hiring girls to do your dirty work Choi...props to you for following gender equality and such'' grinned Tom as he stared at the picture. "Ah, that's my newest recruit. One of the prized gems I've had the fortune of stumbling upon. Her name is Y/N L/N'' spoke Charles proudly as the lines around his eyes crinkled slightly out of pride for you. "This is the first time I've ever heard you praise someone other than those brats Gun and Goo...I wonder what makes this one here so special that has you singing her praises'' questioned Tom as he raised a brow in curiosity, awaiting for Charles' explanation. "In a way, she's kind of like James Lee...an exceptionally skilled and talented fighter, I daresay even stronger than Gun and Goo... she has training of the Indian martial arts called Kallaripayyatu along with Krav Maga which makes quite the deadly combination when used in combat. The advantage of her using her skills is that no one can predict what she might do next. She's even more unpredictable than Goo and James because if someone faces them a couple of times they'd be able to read their attack patterns with ease. But it's different for Y/N, you'll never know when she'll whip out a chain or a knife or just fight with her bare hands... that's what makes her quite the enigmatic fighter, she isn't afraid to fight dirty as well''

"She sounds like quite the catch then...'' muttered Tom as he continued to drink his drink and stared at your picture. "She's even won an award for her literary works as a writer, the Lindenberg award and is quite the over achiever if I must admit...a real prodigy of a girl. My daughter took an instant liking to her as do I. She simply cannot stop singing her praises'' replied Charles as Tom had an amused smirk on his face. "Neither can you and the amount of stalking you do makes me look sane'' answered Tom with a cackle. Charles smirked as he replied "That was mere research...her personality is a literal carbon copy of James, completely reserved and shy and nonchalant'' "Ah, so you're dealing with a touch me not of an introvert then eh, good luck getting that one to open up to you'' said Tom as he snickered and gulped down the last sip of his drink before he stuffed his bottle back into his pocket and glanced at Charles

"Doesn't matter though, I'll have to make her open up...what she's achieved to do for my company was more than what any of the Worker's affiliates could do, they're all mere useless inexperienced children in front of her...'' scoffed Charles as he hummed slightly and his gaze left your photo to focus on the view of the night city before him, several feet below him, taking pride in the fact that he'd gotten to a point where people had to look up to HIM. "You better be careful though...a little birdie told me that Steve Hong was looking forward to meeting with Y/N L/N'' said Tom with a slight grin as Charles' posture stiffened and his jaw clenched as he narrowed his eyes. "What did you say?" he asked in a soft voice, his tone laced with malice and hidden fury. 'That old bastard...if he ever thinks he can have Y/N and steal MY prodigy from me, he's got another thing coming...he can't have her..no...I'll make sure of it...' Charles thought to himself as Tom smirked, looking like he'd just read Charle's thoughts. "You look awfully nervous of losing your beloved little prodigy...wouldn't it be a shame if someone were to snatch her up like the little feather that she is for someone else to use?" asked Tom, his cheshire cat like grin evident on his face and his eyes glinted with malicious amusement, enjoying the sight of Charles Choi on the verge of losing his cool and his patience on the line

"Let me enlighten you with a little story...a while ago Eugene tried to recruit Y/N to join the Workers and he somehow thought he could keep it quiet from me but failed. Why else do you think I decided to meet with Jake Kim, the son of Gapryong Kim that night? We both know it wasn't out of sheer pity...Y/N is my ticket to destroy the crews and the Workers and expand my empire'' said Charles as he continued to stare at the city beneath him, just how he liked it, everyone underneath him, serving him. "I sometimes forget you're more unhinged and ruthless than me...I can't say if I'm shocked or proud'' spoke Tom as he trailed off and looked like he was pondering about something. "This is coming from someone who strips his clothes off and challenges his employees to a fight to the death. It's a miracle your so called employees lasted for so long'' replied Charles as he smirked at Tom. "Touche old Choi'' grinned Tom

"I'm planning to make sure she stays close to us...to me...at my residence. Of course, I shall fund for her schooling and such'' said Charles after a few moments of silence. "Doesn't she have parents?'' asked Tom with a quirked brow as his amused smirk grew even wider. It was such a sight to see someone like him be so obsessed about someone like you, and rightfully so, Tom could understand his friend's obsession with you. You were a natural gifted fighter, the sort of fighter people would literally KILL and spill blood to have on their side. "Do you think that concerns me? Her father is a software engineer and her mother is a stay at home housewife...hardly what I call a challenge. Her potential will be wasted if she continues to live with them. I've tried to convince them before to send her to me and they had the guts to refuse me even after offering them a fortune...I am Elite...if it means I have to get rid of her parents and have their blood spilled then so be it. It will also prove as a warning for anyone foolish enough to attempt to lure her to them. Besides, I've already spilled blood before, it's nothing new. What's a bit more going to do?'' answered Charles, his eyes glinting with malice as his smirk widened. Tom was now convinced you really were the prodigy he'd heard so much about from the people around who kept on yapping about you. He was just glad he managed to wring out the information from Charles which saved him tons of amount of research as he mentally decided to pay you a visit some day...even if it meant dealing with Choi's wrath which he could always deal with later. The main goal on Tom's mind now was how to get you on HIS side...

[hestzhyen]

Already Waist-Deep

Hi internet void. Please allow me to kagura my bachi all over the place for a little bit. I've got a bad case of the brain worms about these boys that I haven't even had together for 20 chapters yet. Let me ramble a little bit about why they're already so compelling as not only a duo, but a ship.

First off, a caveat. Kagurabachi is a Weekly Shounen Jump (WSJ) action series. That means that if romance is ever addressed in the series itself, the protagonist is going to end up with a girl. Doesn't matter how underdeveloped or lackluster his relationship to her is, or how flat she is as a character. Invest lightly and come along for the ride without any expectations of m/m ships becoming canon. (That said, it might not be the worst thing in the world for our MC to end up with a girl in this case- more on that later.)

Second, I don't really ship that often. Not seriously at least. I need more than two guys being close with each other to start wanting them to be a pair, y'know? So I hope you understand the intensity of the material Hokazono-sensei has been giving us the past few chapters. I am on the brink of going all-in on HakuHiro/ChihiHaku in less than 20 chapters, it's that insane.

Third, I will be talking about current developments without marking potential spoilers. There are only 38 chapters out as of writing this, but there are at least two reveals that would be better appreciated going in blind. Spoilers for the oneshot Farewell! Cherry Boy are also a thing near the end.

Okay? Okay. Let's begin.

Who's Involved? First up is our protagonist Chihiro Rokuhira, an 18 year old boy and the son of a famous swordsmith. He was raised with genuine love and care by his father (no idea what happened to his mom yet), taking care of their day-to-day life while learning his father's trade. And from the very first chapter he is steeped in tragedy as he witnesses his father's murder and life's work being stolen. He then sets out on the long, fraught road of vengeance.

Sounds grim and not exactly compelling, right? Especially when this scene from the first chapter was making the rounds being memed to death:

But there's much more to Chihiro than meets the eye. Flashbacks to his time growing up show him being a natural caretaker to his dad and their fish- cooking meals, keeping his dad on task, and so on. We see glimpses of underlying tenderness when he meets and rescues Char, a sweet little girl with her own tragic past. And we get some insight that he might not be quite as resolute as he's projecting himself to be when he faces off against Sojo, a fan of his father who worships a much different version of the man than Chihiro knew. And now the Rakuzaichi arc has definitively shown us that Chihiro isn't as collected as he seems. One of his father's killers easily cracks the mask and shows us Chihiro is really just a desperate kid with a heaping helping of trauma, while Tenri's pointless sacrifice shakes him to his core. But despite it all he's still doing determinator things in the most badass way possible. Chihiro has layers, man. A lot of them. And the best way to understand our protagonist right now is through his foil: Hakuri Sazanami.

Who is Hakuri? Another 18 year old boy with a special lineage, but he's a loser who needs to be saved from common thugs. A pathetic guy who latches on to Chihiro and doesn't take the hint when Chihiro literally runs away to ditch him. An utter failure to his family. A lost puppy looking for a samurai.

Hakuri Sazanami is one of the best goddamn foils I've seen in shounen manga yet.

Let me tell you all the ways I love the writing around this kid and Chihiro because MAN I can't even contain all these feels.

What's Going On? From the start, Hakuri looks like he's just another person for Chihiro to bail out. He witnesses Chihiro's awesomeness fighting Sojo in the streets and decides to imitate it, standing up for a little girl being kidnapped. Instead of winning out, though, he's captured and kicked around. Once he's coincidentally rescued by Chihiro he's immediately all-in on tagging along and keeping Chihiro in his life. Look at this pitiful guy:

Chihiro decides to hear him out due to his connection to the Sazanamis, the Big Bads of the arc. He's initially put off by Hakuri's intensity but brings him along anyway, as Hakuri's insider information regarding the Sazanami family makes him useful. Then, as Chihiro wavers under Hiyuki's assault, Hakuri is truly useful for the first time:

And it only gets better from here. We see Hakuri hanging off Chihiro's every word trying to be as useful as possible for his samurai, striving to do anything he can, though it ends up with him forcing Chihiro to give up his precious sword Enten in exchange for his life. (Yes, Chihiro "buys" Hakuri from Hakuri's own family.) Later on during the invasion of the auction is where things go into overdrive though. We see their character arcs start to invert and shape each other's as the action unfolds and Hakuri's own tragic past comes to light, eventually awakening him to his special abilities. Chihiro's bravery and strength help him pull this off and finally defeat the older brother that tortured him in the name of "love". Hakuri ascends to being the strongest Sazanami since the progenitor started their line centuries ago. He's the Special Boy!

All this to say that Hakuri Sazanami isn't just a deuteragonist or a foil…

He's the goddamn heroine.

Kagurabachi's Built Different What makes a shounen series heroine? Firstly, they support the main character without getting involved in most of the heavy fighting. A shounen heroine will usually at most have a fight against another girl while the Big Event is happening nearby, making sure the main character has the spotlight. Second, most of the value they bring to the protagonist's story is emotional. They encourage him, validate him, provide a bit of a refuge for him to safely let his guard down. They can get him to express softer emotions that he wouldn't normally show around others. Third… they're the love interest. Ochako, Orihime, Chichi, and now… Hakuri? Really?

We know the third one will not happen for HakuHiro in canon. But what about the first two? Well, let's recap what Hakuri has done for Chihiro so far.

Hakuri can defend himself now, but his most useful ability is access to an interdimensional storehouse. Given the way that his magic works -he needs to prioritize maintaining the storehouse or using Isou- he'll likely be the means of keeping the enchanted blades safe rather than a front-line fighter. Support-centric character that will still get some combat time against lesser opponents: check.

Hakuri's given Chihiro some much-needed direct emotional validation that he hasn't gotten from anyone else yet. ("You saved me." … "That katana suits you.") Hakuri's words fortify his resolve and Chihiro later pays it back by trading Enten, an incalculably precious sword and memento of his father, for Hakuri's life. He even uses the same phrase when asked why he'd do that for someone as worthless as Hakuri ("That guy… saved me."). He later reaffirms that Hakuri's encouragement gave him the courage to let go of Enten in the first place:

We even see Chihiro open up to him for the first time just minutes after they met:

Chihiro's been a stoic good guy with buried trauma up until this point. But somehow Hakuri is the first person he outright admits his fears to- not Shiba, not Hinao, but the freaky kid he just rescued. Emotional support pillar: check.

"Well that's not enough!" you say. "That's just taking some moments and doing that thing you said you didn't do- smushing boys together just because they're close!" OK but look at how Hakuri thinks about Chihiro:

Chihiro has been his inspiration from the first time he saw him. It can be read as admiration and hero worship, but doesn't that feel like selling Hakuri's feelings short when remembering how devoted he's been since they first met?

And just look at Hakuri's face here, he's beaming when Chihiro busts in to save him just like he believed he would:

Mostly, though, Chihiro is the one who gives Hakuri strength in the moment. The Ice Woman broke him free of his family's mentality, and now Chihiro gives Hakuri what he needs most: hope. Something he never had before, which doomed his relationship to the Ice Woman; he couldn't prove to her that there was more to life than despair because that was all he knew… but that completely changed once he met his samurai.

And that's been their thing through this arc. Each one is giving the other the vital thing they needed to grow and keep going. When Hakuri was struggling at the start, Chihiro was his guiding light towards a better future. And when Chihiro struggled in the aftermath of Tenri's cruel death, Hakuri pulled him along so they could finish the job. They're in perfect sync now as they take down the Rakuzaichi. Don't just take my word for it, check out Hokazono-sensei's color page for the most recent chapter (38): https://twitter.com/KaguraShiba/status/1804898273859445181 From Hella (KaguraShiba): >Kagurabachi Ch 38 JP Color Page 「阿吽の呼吸で薙ぎ払え」 "Two people dancing to the same beat, mowing down enemies" >阿吽の呼吸/"Aun no Kokyuu" Synchronized breathing >Or when people are the most in tune with each other >阿吽の呼吸/"Aun no Kokyuu" Is a Buddhist expression in Japanese meaning something close to "harmonizing in sync together" >"Aun" is also used to indicate an "Aun relationship", indicating an inherently harmonious relationship or nonverbal communication Yeesh. But holy shit it's paying off. In chapter 38 these boys are already in harmony- Hakuri registers Chihiro into his storehouse (yes they both "own" each other now) and sends him in to fight his father. During the fight Chihiro trusts Hakuri to interpret his intent and it works. Chihiro wordlessly tags a bunch of grenades with his spirit energy and Hakuri pulls them out into the real world to bomb the shit out of the Rakuzaichi audience. They didn't plan this beforehand- they had no idea Kyoura had fucking grenades laying around in there. But they're close enough to understand each other's thoughts already. Peak soulmate material right there!

What's got me most interested now, though, is how they will pull/push each other after this arc. Chihiro's going to be focused more than ever on tracking down his father's killer and the swords. But Hakuri, well… I think it would be very interesting if he starts to become a despair monster. A reflection of Chihiro's state at the very start of the manga where nothing mattered to him except exacting revenge. We're seeing shades of this in the most recent chapter (38) where he's slumped over and obviously depressed about how all this is turning out. He's going to end his family's cruel trade but at what cost to himself? Will Chihiro see some of himself in Hakuri and be able to help him out, or at least promise to find relief from the pain together? Obviously a Bad End where Hakuri takes himself out is in the cards given Hokazono-sensei's previous works but… on a meta level, I think his storehouse ability will keep him relevant. I mean yeah he could be used to slap Chihiro across the face by showing what a bad end for his revenge story could look like but I think (hope) that won't happen. [Note to future self: I give you permission to go batshit insane if Chihiro stops Hakuri from committing sudoku.]

And this is where my brain worms are coming from. In just under 20 chapters we have an extremely strong set up between them- so much room for them to teach each other; push to grow and pull back from the brink when tragedy strikes again.

But where's the real meat, you ask? The actual literary analysis in this gushing rant about how much I love these boys I barely know? Well, fine. Buckle up because it's time for some…

Daddy Issues The Rakuzaichi arc really digs into comparing Chihiro's affection for his dad to the Sazanami family structure. And I gotta talk about this because it's the key aspect that makes Hakuri such a brilliant foil.

First off, the similarities. Chihiro and the Sazanami kids are all intensely devoted to their fathers. All of them were raised with love while learning the intricacies of their family trade. We see the Sazanami kids getting praised for doing well, just like Chihiro. Hakuri and Tenri were even told they were special. During the arc, the Sazanami kids put their lives on the line to defend their dad and family legacy with zeal matched by Chihiro's intensity to avenge his dad. When he falls, Tenri's final words are apologizing to his father.

It's truly heartbreaking that the Sazanami's dad never loved them back.

You see, the Sazanamis are one of those families that put their lineage and craft over everything else. Every member of the family lives for ensuring the Rakuzaichi auction goes off without a hitch. One of the clan is chosen to inherit the storehouse and the rest are trained to defend it to the death. Kyoura, the current patriarch, has no compunctions about letting his son Tenri die just to delay Chihiro and the gang for a few more minutes. He had his kids put their lives on the line to defend a storehouse door that he had already broken in secret- making it completely useless. And he's equally cold when it comes to children who can't perform to standards like Hakuri. Once Hakuri (apparently) fails to manifest an ability for sorcery, Kyoura turns a willfully blind eye to the abuse his kid starts to suffer. He knowingly lets Hakuri be tortured by his older brother for years and does nothing, then disowns him once some "merchandise" kills herself in front of him. There's no love for children who can't be useful to the family's traditions. And any love that does exist between father and child is manipulated as seen here:

What the fuck man.

So Hakuri is going into this arc firm in his conviction to end his family's evil ways. He's been abused physically and emotionally for at least six years straight; he knows his father doesn't love him. And even now when he's about to bring the whole place down with Chihiro he's still yearning for his dad's praise. Hakuri's family is fucked up bad and he needs a hell of a lot of healing after all is said and done.

Meanwhile, every flashback with Chihiro shows us that he was truly loved and cared for like every kid deserves. His dad wasn't perfect but he was exactly what a parent should be- kind, understanding, and supportive. His goofy advice helps Chihiro to this day. Chihiro and his dad had a genuine father-son bond that was broken by tragedy and thus Chihiro's desire to do right by his father's memory is driven by grief, first and foremost. So when we see his expression after Tenri's death, we know why he's so badly shaken. They clashed out of love and duty for their fathers, supposedly prepared to pay the ultimate price. But the Sazanami version of "love" is a very different, much less wholesome version than the kind Chihiro knows… yet no less effective in terms of motivation.

You can practically hear his heart breaking for Tenri. And his inner thoughts in the next chapter say it all: he was naive to think he could enact revenge while holding fast to the kindness he grew up with. Chihiro's kindness that he learned from his father is a liability to him in this situation. Meanwhile, Hakuri knew from the start that he had to finally give up the last of his familial affection. He hardened his heart and steeled his resolve to do whatever it took.

Both Chihiro and Hakuri knew what it was like to be loved. Hakuri's version might have been twisted, but it was still painful to have that bond suddenly broken. And now we've seen Edgy Revenge Man's inner softness hold him back while Silly Soft Guy has a heart colder than the arctic. I go absolutely feral comparing and contrasting their situation and how their positions have reversed. Yeah, Chihiro's going to be the action guy who saves the day but Hakuri's the reason he can do it. Hakuri's surprisingly strong core has pushed Chihiro to put his feelings aside to get things done. I can't fucking wait to see how this arc ends and where these boys end up. What will the the most important thing Chihiro takes away from Hakuri here? I hope it leads him to be a bit more openly compassionate and soft around his allies- Hakuri's situation being a lesson in not letting your family's bonds overtake everything else. For Hakuri, well… I think being around Chihiro, Char, and the rest will help him heal. But I hope it's Chihiro that keeps him stable as the person that can relate to him best.

Meta Ramblings Whew. Now then… Yo dumbass writing this, we're not even 40 chapters in yet. Don't you think it's a bit too soon to start getting hyped for a character that could be shelved as soon as the arc is done?

It's interesting to see the themes and characters Hokazono-sensei's reused in Kagurabachi. From the four one-shots available to read, it seems like he's is interested in writing about characters encountering tragedy through various kinds of love. I think it's intriguing that three out of the four end in despair, and the one that doesn't still involves a fair bit of sadness. It's a bit early to say about Hakuri's circumstances since this is only the second proper arc in the series, but given Hokazono-sensei's past works, I think Hakuri is here to stay. For one, Hokazono-sensei seems to love his color-coded foils (Chain, Enten, Roku no Meiyaku). Farewell! Cherry Boy also explores the circumstances of a blindly loyal boy who feels useless being given his first chance to prove himself… I think this is a theme that Hokazono-sensei is revisiting in a more in-depth fashion with Hakuri, so there's a good chance there's more planned.

And just for fun, if we want to look at his romance stories… Madogiwa de Amu is all about one person being the other's greatest hope, their reason to persevere in the face of hardship and seeing that reciprocated in turn. Complete with the weaker person becoming strong enough to protect the person who inspired them first. Hmm. (Hopefully it doesn't end the same way though 'cause man, I can see Hakuri doing something similar right now…) It's also not impossible for Kagurabachi to touch on love given we see Farewell! Cherry Boy incorporating love as the crux of the narrative, despite starting as a gangster story. The true MC is quite like Chihiro as well in terms of motivation and action plan.

I also think it's impossible to overstate how important it is for Chihiro to have a friendly peer to compare to, narratively speaking. Char is a woobie, Shiba's an uncle figure, and Hiyuki is set up to be the aggro rival/frenemy. Hinao could become more than a side character but it seems unlikely at this time. Chihiro needs someone his own age to just be himself with. And that, I am 99% sure, will be Hakuri. A guy who's suffered just as much as he has. Someone who knows what it's like to have a famous last name and lineage to protect. An equal who's unquestionably on his side, who will lift him up when he's down, will need some protection and care. So yes I think Hakuri will be sticking around to be Chihiro's foil. He might take a back seat at times as heroines do, but he'll still be there to support our sad boi through thick and thin.

Anyway that's why I'm ready to jump feet-first into this ship. It's got all the hallmarks of a wonderfully strong bond and I hope we get to see these boys comforting each other for years to come. If you read all this… thank you? Maybe get yourself checked for brain worms? And tell everyone you know to read this amazing action-packed tragedy laced with BL crack cocaine.

[zweiginator]

this may be jumping the gun here a bit but for stepbro! patrick what would happen if their parents marriage gets rocky? it’s a couple months into the school year not thanksgiving yet and maybe her mom calls her saying something about it (not divorce but something is up?)

a part of you thinks that's why you and patrick were so quick to throw the immorality of the situation to the wind. because their marriage happened so fast. neither of you even met each other until the papers were already signed. a courthouse wedding that was more bureaucratic than anything.

your mom is calling you a lot more. saying that she and patrick's father are arguing a lot more. small things, they bicker about.

and she gets mad when you suggest that it could be because they jumped into everything, headfirst, without realizing their love was on the shallow end.

maybe she's upset because she knows you're right.

"patrick has been a lot more--on edge as well."

you swallow hearing his name. because you always feel like you're in trouble. his name gives you that same pavlovian response of fear and of ecstasy all at the same time.

"in what way?" you ask. you haven't spoken to him in weeks. you barely communicate as is.

"just hasn't been in a good mood. it seems like it started when you left for school. did you argue when you left?"

you don't see how this correlates with her marriage issues.

"no. we barely talk, let alone argue."

your mother sighs. "it seemed to me and your stepfather that you grew pretty close."

you pretend not to be fazed. like she isn't prying open her own pandora's box. "i guess so." you pause. "is there a point here? sorry-- i don't mean to be rude. just confused." you chew on the end of your pen.

you hear her set a glass of water down. "well we have been arguing because patrick's father isn't convinced we have good chemistry." and then silence. "he said it seems like you and patrick have more chemistry, and that that's ridiculous."

you couldn't tell over the phone, but patrick walks into the kitchen as your mother said that. his tennis bag is slung over his shoulder and he's sweating because september isn't quite cooling down just yet. his face heats up.

you are silent for awhile.

"listen." you say. "i think he's seeing things that aren't there. but i gotta go. i have class in twenty." a lie.

patrick turns around to leave the room before your mother notices.

[howi99]

The Puppeteer: *fixing someone's arm* I might have given you a stronger body, but that doesn't mean you are invincible. God, i fixed you last week for heaven's sake!

Ex-paper pleaser: I am sorry, i was trying to fix the bridge so you didn't have to.

The Puppeteer: *sigh* I already told you all; i don't mind y'all helping me, but i need to know in advance. *Show his atelier with his hand* What are my tools for? Decoration? Besides, I haven't finished the plan for the northern expansion of the city yet. The bridge can wait a mo-

Marie: *kicking the door open while gesticulating like a madwoman*

The Puppeteer: ... Marie, you'll have to slow down a bit. I may have taught you sign language, but i can't understand if you don't take your time.

Marie: *pointing to the big clock on the wall then at him and finally outside*

The Puppeteer: What? You want me to go eat? But it's barely 14h!

Marie: *facepalm* "The date you fool! It's today!"

The Puppeteer: What? What is to- *looks behind Marie and see a familiar face* Marie dear, didn't think you'd brought a friend home. Had i know, i would have made tea.

Marie: *questioning look* "Friend?" *Look behind her and see an out of breath Neo* "How did that old hag follow me!?"

The Puppeteer: I assume you asked how she followed you by how you are moving your hands? *Look at the patient* You should be fine now, you can go.

Ex-paper pleaser: Alright boss. I shall do that. *Leave*

The Puppeteer: *looking back at Neo* Dear friend, i shall present myself. My current name is the Puppeteer. I welcome you in my humble abode.

Neo: *absolutely not recognizing Jaune since his appearance changed a lot (soon to be commissioned so everyone can see what he looks like)* "That's nice and all, but that kid stole something precious to me. I want it back!"

The Puppeteer: *chuckle* Now, did she? Marie, what did you take from our friend?

Marie: *getting the broken electrolarynx from her pocket* "i saw it was broken and wanted you to help me fix it... I was planning to give it back."

The Puppeteer: Ah, i know what this is! It's been years since i saw one! *Take it from her hands* Hm, the internal circuits seem to have gotten loose. *Look at Neo* Mind if i fix it? As you can see, i'm quite adept at fixing stuff.

Neo: *annoyed* "Fine, but i want it back the second it is finished. I don't want my friend to know i broke his gift."

The Puppeteer: *chuckle* I don't think he would mind, young lady. *Begin the repair*

Marie: *look intensely at Neo*

Neo: *glare back*

Marie: *cheeky smile* "You should really wear less make up. It doesn't hide your wrinkles."

Neo: *cheeky smile back* "Should i talk about your fashion sense? You look like a worse version of me. What, did your grandma choose your clothes for you?"

The Puppeteer: You know, you two might be mute but i still can clearly hear all the gesticulating you both doing. I need to concentrate!

Neo and Marie: *rolls their eyes and crosses their arms*

The Puppeteer: Thank you.

_______

10 min later

The Puppeteer: Done! *Looking at his hands* My age is showing, when i was 20 i would have finished in less than a minute. *Looks behind him and sees Marie and Neo insulting each other with in sign language* They never change. *Clap his hands* Recreation finished kids, you can get your thing Neo.

Neo: *look surprised at the Puppeteer* "How do you know my name?*

The Puppeteer: *chuckle* You really don't recognize me? Come on, *throw lightly the electrolarynx to Neo* you even were so afraid I discovered that you broke my gift. *Smile and remove his mask that hides his face* though i should maybe redo the presentation?

Neo: *take a step back, looking worried*

The Puppeteer: I am known as the Puppeteer around here, but you can call me Jaune. *Looking at the clock* For you it should be maybe 6 hours since we last saw each other. For me? It was the longest 6h of my life.

[goodlucksnez]

cw: some angst, sneezing, glitching,rain sfx, insults, playful nicknames

so i have going through it(depression wise) and decided well I am going to make a angst snez wav

Also I don't care I headcannon v/ox gets sneezy with rain, I mean electronic and rain don't match well so to bad this is my headcannon--also you dont bless people in hell al being polite says curse you and i love that hc --also also a/l says it literately acid rains in hell so that is cannon, shut up!

transcrip belong (do suggest you read along becuase there are moment that help explain the tone/pauses-voice acting angst is hard)

Vox: *running in the acid rain to get under a store cover* Shit, shit, shit…. This shit wasn't fucking supposed to happen, yet fucking broadcast. I guess it could get worse

Al: *appearing from his shadow realm holding some bags that are sizzling away from the rain* It appears that we will have a comparison.

Vox:  Ohh fuck, what are you doing here?

Al: Well, I was in the neighborhood getting a few supplies. And appears to have misjudged the weather and that's what I get for listening to an inferior broadcast.

Vox: *Laughs* I don't fucking control that section. That's hell 666 not dictated by my media corporation. So, you can take that comment and shove it right up your red pompous….

Al: *tsking* Don't get your antenna in a twist.

Vox: I don't want to be here any longer than necessary. How long do you think the fucking rain will last.

Al: *reaches his hand out and slips some of the acid rain, laughing as it burns his throat* at this rate Yep, and that's the taste of a long rain. We're going to be. Here for quite the long haul.

Vox*burning his hand copying al*

Al: *Laughing* I can't believe you copied me.

Vox:  I did not copy you.

Al: Yes, you did not an exact copy, but an imitation. Not quite as good as the original

Vox: fuck.

Al: Well, aren't you full and then extensive vocabulary.

Vox: Don't want to waste my breath *hitching and sneezing with a glitch* on things that don’t need it

Al: Curse you

Vox: *laughing* It's been a while since you've made me laugh.

Al: Let me recall. Wasn't that about eight years ago with this?

Vox: Yeah. We used to run the world.

Al: *sitting down and turning towards vox* Well, we might as well, I doubt we will be moving anytime soon. We haven't, really. Talked about it. *hinting about vox asking al to e part of his team*

Vox: While every time we meet it's normally not in good terms.

Al: True. We do have a knack for getting under each other skin

Vox: *sneezing and glitching*You could say that again

Al: I'm assuming you've heard of the Christmas truce during the First World War?

Vox: Even though you're older than me, I know some things. Yes, I'm aware. So is that your fucking compromise during this acidic storm.

Al: *mockingly* Well done. vox. Yes, a sabbatical.

Vox: So who the fuck wants to start?

Al: How about the one who isn't going to sneeze in the next 5

Vox: *interups al sneezing and glitching* Go ahead.

Al: *looking up as if he is remembering* Let's say my work became mundane. I was so ordinary gain a territory here. Steal soul there, takedown a tyrant an overlord, gain some territory. It was a routine. It was getting so boring. What was the point? Everyone feared me, but. *looks forlorn* What was I even looking for? So I left. Is best to leave them wanting more, right, old friend?

Vox: *surprised not seeing this side of al* Did you find it? Thing you were looking for?

Al: *laughing putting on his smiling face again, hiding his true feeling* Not yet. I have an idea, but I'm not so sure it can be achieved.

Vox: *rolling his eyes* Hopefully it won't interfere with my plan.

Al: Oh, and pray tell, what is your plan?

Vox: *glaring at him* To destroy you.

Al:I thought we have a truce.

Vox: Fair. Fair. I mean, it's not exactly a sound business practice tell my enemy the *hitching and sneezes and glitches* the plan

Al: Curse you. You all right? I would hate for my competition to die so early.

Vox: Yeah,right as rain *shudders*

Al:*remember a moment from their past* I forgot this happens to you when it rains, doesn't it?

Vox: Well, electronic and water don't exactly mix well together.

Al: Acid and rain don't work well either. But it is nice to talk like this.*his face softens and he takes on a more gentle look* Like we used to. If one were akin this to a feeling. One might think it would be longing For the old times.

Vox: Ohh, you're gonna get sentimental on me, old man.

Al: *hiding behind a mask again* You wish.

Vox: *sneezes* Stupid rain.

Al: It will pass. All things do.

Vox: Even overlords?

Al: *perks up a bit* oh? Trying gleam information now are we?

vox: Well, I have a reporter.

Al: Well, for your report, yes. Even overlords can die, I should know. I've killed enough.

Vox: *in a soft voice as if he is afraid of the answer* Where? Do they go?

Al: Not sure. Maybe that's something we can discover together.

Vox: *Sneezes*

Al: Curse you

Vox: Curse you to al. But seriously, you can go anywhere you please. And yet…. You stay. Why? Why do you? Why do you care? *is looking at al face trying to hint at the fact he left him and wanting to know why*

Al: I guess I deserve that…*takes a deep breath but cannot look vox in the face* it wasn't your fault. You know, there's nothing you could have said or done to change my mind. You weren't enough to stick around for. There is nothing I could have done….*takes a deep breath and you can see the smile fade and his claws dig not his side*Because I was nothing…..I still have.

Vox: *surprises to see this side of al, he has never seen* You don't really mean that?

 Al: *laughs and masks his pain* Just performance old pal. The rain should be stopping soon. Let's chat again. It was….*pauses* Nice to see a friend.

Vox: *in his head* He's just like before. It Feel like I never really got to meet the real Al. But today I saw a peek behind the curtains. And…. It was Lonesome.

vox: Yeah, it was nice seeing you around you outdated it static filled nonsense.

al: It's almost adorable how hard you try to be relevant in a world that doesn't care.

vox: Likewise, Bambi.

Al: To seeing the end.

Vox *sneezes and glitches out* To seeing the end

[mrs-monaghan]

Why do you think Jimin decided to travel the world for 3 weeks without Jungkook back in 2019?

Here is a few things:

•They could have gotten a Tokyo 2.0, but decided not to.

•The little glimpses we got from JK during that time,... he looked quite sad

•I feel it in my gut that Jikook had a pivotal moment during their summer break in 2019.

I am not usually confident on speaking about Jikook fights/breaks seeing as I wasn't Army yet. As a late comer I only have others to rely on and I can't trust that 100%. It's always gonna be better consuming content in real time.

That being said 😁

I do agree with most assessments that something was a bit wonky in 2019. And while what Jimin did for JK's birthday was HUGE and sweet and amazing, I do feel like it happened for a reason. Almost like it was crucial for him to do so. Like, think about it.

He went to great lengths to make it for that birthday. And he was only there for a short period before he had to leave again.

Jimin spent more time travelling than with JK. But for some reason he just had to be there. Something about this has always seemed...not sus, no. But like there was more to it. You know what I mean?

And we haven't even factored in the photo Jimin uploaded where its pretty clear JK had been crying. Why would JK cry on his birthday? My theory, which isn't really mine but rather an existing theory that I agree with, is that mans did not expect so see Jimin and was hella relieved that Mimi showed up.

Jimin had taken off for however long the Tannies were on holiday for, without JK and the latter thought for sure his bf wasn't going to be there for his birthday. We know this because the whole thing was a surprise.

Also, this was around the time (2018-2019) members were moving out of the dorm and getting their own places so we know Jikook had been inseparable until this point. And while it has always been common knowledge that Jimin had other friends outside of BTS, that wasn't the case for JK.

So members are scattered doing their own thing with their friends and family and JK is in Seoul doing what? Jikook are interdependent we already know this and JK's person is travelling Europe without him. So probably the very first time in years they've been away from eo, for this amount of time.

I can see this affecting satellite Jeon big time. And so when he's already accepted Jimin will be MIA for his big day, BOOM! their friend helps Jimin organise the surprise party for JK.

If Jikook were fighting like many seem to think, then JK was prolly so happy to see Jimin. He didn't expect him, for one. And also he didn't know how long the fight was gonna last for, so the waiting had prolly been torture. So Jimin showing up must have made JK so relieved and happy. Poor baby

That he went and tattooed JM on his hand to show his gratitude? His devotion? His commitment? Who knows 🤷🏽‍♀️

So why do I think they fought u ask? I do not know, anon. I wasn't around. But theories that make sense to me;

Jimin wanted them to enjoy their holiday separately?

They'd been inseparable for 8 years and Jimin thought some space would do them good?

Jimin wanted them to hang out with other people rather than just each other?

All theories insinuate whatever separation was happening during this time was Jimin's call. Because if it was up to JK they would spend 24/7 together and he would be just fine. As long as he has Jimin, is all good.

And because Jimin knows his baby has separation anxiety, he made sure to @least come back for JK's birthday. Even if it would only be for a few hours before he was off traveling again.

[roxygen22]

Still Here (Chapter 7)

Summary: Three little words from Timmy send you into a panic.

A/N: A shorter chapter, but a BIG one.

Catch up on previous chapters here.

"I should have followed you when you asked me."

In slow motion, Timothée's lips met yours. They were as plush and soft as you remembered. His hands eagerly made their way to your hips to pull your body to his. One of your hands snaked up his back while the other gripped his neck to pull him deeper into the kiss.

"[Y/N], I love you," he moaned when came up for air.

Instantly, you pulled away. He kept his arms out, stunned by your sudden absence from them.

"Timmy...I can't tell you how much I want this. I have feelings for you, too. But it's too soon. I- I can't say it back yet," your voice trembled. You walked over to his truck and dropped the tailgate to sit. "This isn't just a matter of picking up where we left off 12 years ago. I've lived a whole separate life in between. I have a daughter depending on me to keep my shit together.

I got so wrapped up in being wife and mother, I- I don't even know who I am anymore. I need to figure that out first. I rushed headlong into my last relationship with blinders on. I couldn't see anything else but him. I latched onto him because I was alone and lonely. Sound familiar? I lost myself in trying to be whatever he wanted me to be. I can't- I can't do that again." You put both of your hands to your forehead. "I've barely been back more than a month, and I'm already entertaining a new relationship."

Timothée joined you on the tailgate. "But, it's not new."

"Yes, it is!" you shouted. "I'm not the same person I was 12 years ago. We need to get to know each other again to make sure we actually like each other for who we are now, not just getting wrapped up in the nostalgia of what was. I- I've been hurt, wounded, heart flayed open at the hands of someone else who also once said they loved me. Then they fell out of love with me. What does that say about me? What does that say about love?" your voice faded to a whisper.

"It says more about him," Timothée growled. "That he's a damn fool. And so was I to let you go in the first place. But unlike that idiot, I NEVER STOPPED LOVING YOU!" He jumped off the tailgate to pace the sidewalk.

You blinked owlishly at him. "What?"

"Why do you think I couldn't follow through with my engagement in Texas? She was funny, beautiful even...but she wasn't you. And that wasn't fair to her."

"And I don't think this is fair to you!" you exclaimed. "I feel so drained right now. I don't have a lot of emotional energy to offer, and what reserve I do have needs to go to Madison. She's my number one priority. I hope you understand that I'm not saying no. I'm asking for slow."

He stopped pacing and stood directly in front of you, one hand resting on your knee. The other cupped your face. "I'm not going anywhere. I'll go as slow as you need. But, I'm not going to stop telling you that I love you. You deserve to hear it. Know it. Feel it. I will still be here when you decide it's safe to love me back." He broke the seriousness with a flash of his classic lopsided grin. "And if you think being honest with me is going to change how I feel about you, then maaaaybe you're not quite as smart as I thought."

You laughed softly and leaned into his touch. "I'm glad I haven't scared you off. Most men would turn tail and run at the sight of a divorcée with a pre-teen daughter."

"Well, I'm not most men, and I've actually grown quite fond of Madison," Timothée replied.

"I can tell. And she likes you, too, it seems. I think that's what scares me most, though. Any decision I make impacts her as well. She got hurt in all of this, too. I don't want her to get attached to someone who may not stick around. Not that- I don't mean that you would do that. Just in general."

"I knew what you meant. I respect you for putting her first. I would expect nothing less from you. And I'd sooner walk through fire than hurt her." He kissed the top of your head and sat back down beside you. You rested your head on his shoulder for a few silent moments.

"We seem to have our most serious conversations in the back of this truck." You looked up at him and half-smiled.

"I can think of some other things that have happened in this truck, too." He winked.

"Timmy!" you popped him lightly on the arm in feigned embarrassment.

"So what now?" he asked in a more serious tone.

"I don't know. This is new to me, too. I guess we do what we have been doing. We hang out. We talk. We get to know each other's adult selves. But no PDA in front of Maddy. Not yet. I will talk to her when I feel the time is right and slowly introduce the concept of me dating again."

"I can live with that. But when she's not around, can I still do this?" He leaned over and teasingly grazed his lips over yours.

"I can live with that," you breathed out. This time, you closed the gap, all but slamming your mouth against his for a deeper kiss.

<><><><><>

Chapter 8

Masterlist

Tag List: @croatianprincess @bluizh

[astyrial]

eyes wide open oikawa tooru x gn!reader (angst) synopsis: you confront an old love word count: 1k warnings: egotistical behavior, went hard on this one ngl masterlist | requests are open

    teal and white balloons line the reminiscent halls of aoba johsai. strings hang onto locker handles, each one slightly scratched and torn from years of overuse, students not caring for the longevity of them. banners run along the top of the lockers, words scattered on some of them. aoba johsai's volleyball team's wins written on one of them. 

  you can hardly remember the last time you thought about their volleyball team. of their captain and setter. except now, it's hard to ignore the glaring love the school had for its athletes. the countless yearbook photos and awards all ending up in the hands of the players. especially the famed volleyball team and their captain that oh so loved the attention. 

  he loved it so much he forgot how to love someone else. leaving you years later standing outside of the party, arms crossed over your chest, completely alone. even hearing the music reminds you of why you didn't want to come in the first place. the songs that sound a little too much like prom music and the outfits that are simply there to represent wealth. 

  "reminiscing?" a voice worms its ways through your ears, familiar and yet disturbing.

  "hard to reminisce when none of it was very enjoyable," you stare ahead at the banner, him standing in your peripheral vision, your finger tapping against your forearm. 

  he sighs, lowering his shoulders. he's always been expressive through his body language. how he loves someone, hates them, it's always written across his face like a shakespearean play. and now, you can see the pain your words cause him, "none of it?"

  you look over at the man you once loved, just now noticing the way he's matured. his hair is a little shorter now and his glasses seem much more attuned to that of a grown man. they're a little thicker and closer together, echoing the academic look he carries through his outfit. the browns and loose plaid look quickly screaming professor, something you could never see on him. 

  "yeah... okay, not all of it. some of it was nice," you finally say, eyes still unable to connect with his for more than a few seconds.

  his appearance seems much more at peace with that answer than digging for something that’s a bit more truthful, "how have you been? as we haven't seen each other in quite some time."

  "truly? i don't know if that's any of your business, oikawa. it hasn't been for a very long time. so, i think i'm going to go. you enjoy your celebration with the team and every girl or television network who you had attention from," you push past him, mind throwing you back to every memory you've had in these halls. 

  the way he'd lean against your locker like some american sitcom. his eyes stuck on yours like a mouse to a trap, keeping you in his sights just long enough for him to use you to gain what he wanted. 

  "you're right- if that means anything to you, i want you to know. i wasn't right to you, not in the ways that mattered. especially when i did love you as much as i did," oikawa practically yells out to you just as a new song begins to play over the speakers. 

  you turn around to look at him, chills running up your arms. of course you wanted to know if you ending it with him was the right move. the way you cried over and over blaming yourself for ending something that barely even blossomed into something bigger. when in actuality, oikawa never could've shown that love to you, at least he couldn't then. the overwhelming sense of joy he felt from others impeded the love he garnered for you.

  "i loved you, and maybe it's too late for me to say that to you, but it's the truth. you were too good for me, and i took that for granted," his voice quiets some, hands stuffed into his pockets like a kid getting scolded.

  "it is too late. because- well, i'm a different person. eighteen-year old me would've loved to have heard that spiel," you take a few steps towards him, biting your lip as you shake your head, "but at this point? it's a little off the mark. wouldn’t you say?”

  oikawa stands there for a moment, clearly unable to think of what else to say, "... i know. but truly, y/n- l/n, i am a different person now. and i'd like to at least have a chance to sit down with you, tell you my side of everything."

  "what makes you think you deserve that? to have some sort of closure that i never got when i wanted it? you don't get to change this around just because you've changed," your eyebrows furrow, a clear look of disgust covering your expression, "oikawa, you may be the greatest guy alive right now, but that doesn't change anything."

  "i know- i know. i just want a chance to show you that my eyes are wide open. and they're finally noticing everything that i need to address in my life. that includes how i treated you," he takes a few steps in your direction, bringing his hand up slightly as if he were to hold yours.

  you quickly shake your head, "while it all sounds very genuine, i don't want that. i don't want whatever closure you think i may give you. please, go back to the party and find another person from your past who may want this apology." 

  instead of saying anything else to finally sway you to his side of the court, he stands there, like a fool. fingers pushed back into his pockets as a pout settles on his lips. anything you may have felt for him before, any sort of love or even contentment has been thrown out the window. now, all you feel is pitty for a man who so desperately wants to let go of his past.

a/n: this wasn’t how this fic was supposed to go.. it was supposed to be a fluff piece…

[aetherdoesthings]

hi, I was wondering if you could do a romantic x reader oneshot on Roronoa Zoro for Valentine's Day!

hi! sorry this took a while, but made it in time for valentine day before it ends!

forethoughts: remember that aforementioned crush i had? yeah really felt lonely while writing this bc ain't no way she's into girls 😭. anyways enjoy :,). also no i still haven't talked to her yet i still get anxiety when i open the chat because 🤷. sorry if the pacing is fucked i was in a rush trying to get this out before valentine's day ends (i'm still at my grandpa's house) so yeah.

notes: fem!reader, valentines day

February 14 was rolling around the corner and time was ticking. You had spent the 13th worrying about what to do on the next day with your boyfriend, thinking about what to do on your first Valentine’s day after confessing to each other at the beginning of the year. Sure, it had been only a month of getting to know each other better and being comfortable around each other, but to the two of you (or to you at least) it felt like years. 

With the sun already halfway through its shift, you started to panic even more, as a ‘perfect Valentine’s day’ itinerary still has not been formed. Seeing you in such a manic state, Nami and Robin had whisked you away, quite literally carrying you by the limbs off the ship and into town to grab something to eat. You insisted that you did not need to eat anything and you needed to think and prepare, but with Nami’s glare and Robin’s arms threatening to incapacitate you, you reluctantly sat on the wooden chair across the two women as food was served to your table. You picked up your fork, taking a bite as you swallowed. Immediately, you were reminded of how depraved of food you were, and engulfed the entire plate within minutes. 

“Has planning your day tomorrow really stressed you out, dear Y/N?” Robin remarked, giving you a napkin to wipe the corners of your mouth.

Your cheeks flushed red as you took the napkin, wiping your mouth before nodding your head. “I just want to have the perfect day with Zoro… he means the world to me, and I just want to have a good Valentine’s day with him…”

The moment you had confessed to Zoro, you had basically confessed to the whole crew since Zoro loved to brag about you being his girlfriend in front of Sanji. Naturally, everyone was supportive of it (Sanji as well after a few weeks) and it was common knowledge you and Zoro were dating.

Nami chuckled. “Still, it feels like you shouldn’t be putting in that much work into one day just by yourself. Do you know if Zoro is planning anything to do tomorrow?”

Your mouth was open, but no words came out. You sighed, shaking your head. “He’s been silent for the past few days. I tried bringing up Valentine’s day to him, and he just said ‘what’s that?’”

“So you’re putting this much thought and stress into planning out the perfect day with him but he’s not putting any effort into tomorrow?” Robin said.

The claim Robin made was like a bitter pill you had to swallow. It was true; while you spent your day stressing about Valentine’s day, Zoro was probably asleep or drinking or training in the gym like it was another Tuesday. 

“Come on, don’t sulk.” Nami flicked your head, prompting you to get out of your trance as you looked at the two women with a defeated look.

“Perhaps Zoro is planning on surprising you tomorrow.” Robin spoke out.

“Zoro can’t surprise me. I mean, he can, he’s just… not good at giving gifts. I love him, but sometimes I don’t want a bottle of sake for my birthday.”

“Didn’t the two of you finish that bottle in one night?”

“No we didn’t!” You shook your head adamantly. “Still, even if he’s going to surprise me… I just hope he doesn’t get me a dead boar again.”

“Hey, it’s the thought that counts, alright? At least he’s planning on surprising you.” Nami smiled. “It’s better than him just forgetting about you completely.”

“Why not just spend the rest of the day relaxing? You’ve spent the whole morning trying to plan for tomorrow. Just take a break; I’m sure tomorrow will be a great day regardless.” Robin suggested.

“We could go shopping together! I saw some really good shops near this cafe!”

You chuckled at Nami’s words. “Alright, alright. Sure.”

So you went shopping with the women of the Straw Hats, until the sun finally retired. The entire time you were still worried about tomorrow, but with Nami and Robin’s constant and unwavering encouragement and determination to make you not worry, you soon forgot about tomorrow and spent the rest of today shopping for clothes, watching Nami argue with a clerk for the price of a dress, and going inside libraries with Robin to check out books for Chopper and herself.

Since you had spent yesterday relaxing, you had nothing planned whatsoever for today. You had gotten into bed with Zoro, asking him one last time if he had anything planned for today. He simply grunted ‘go to sleep’. So you did.

The moment you woke up, you immediately noticed the Zoro-shaped hole in the mattress, your hand placed on the hot surface. Zoro must’ve gotten up a few minutes before you. You let out a sigh, forcing yourself to sit up as you rubbed your eyes. Zoro always woke up before you; he liked to train in the morning and get his morning workout done before the crew woke up. 

So today is a normal day after all… You thought to yourself. Even though you were disappointed that there wasn’t going to be any grand plan or event that was going to happen with you and Zoro, you were still determined to spend the rest of your time today with him. 

To your dismay, you had spent your entire day in fact trying to find Zoro on board the ship that was nowhere near land, since Franky had raised the anchor last night. Frustrated and tired, you had locked yourself in your shared room with Zoro, looking at old pictures of the two of you together, not a shred of love or romance beating in your heart.

You didn’t know how long you were moping for when the door to your room suddenly burst open. The green haired swordsman was standing there, wearing a shirt you had never seen before. His swords weren’t strapped to his side, his bandanna still tied to his shoulder. He ripped the blanket off your body, grabbing your hand. “Come on.”

It was already dark out, your legs wobbly and shaky from not moving the entire day. A mix of emotions surged to your head, your mind deciding what you should feel. As that was all happening, Zoro had swung you over his shoulder, as he ascended to the crow’s nest, plopping your body next to his. 

“What-” You were sitting on a bunch of cushions and pillows, while Zoro took a blanket for himself. There were treats and food littered around your makeshift seat, all foods that were your favorite. Candles were lit and scattered haphazardly around, placed by Zoro’s boots and your barefoot, away from the blankets and easily flammable cushions. The swordsman’s swords were placed beside him, one hand on all three hilts. His other hand was already gripped onto the neck of a bottle of sake, as he began to chug it slowly.

“What is all this?” You finally spoke after your mind had finally processed everything.

“Did you really think I forgot about Valentine’s day, dear?” Zoro let out a low chuckle, looking at you as he wrapped his arm around your neck. “Look.”

He removed his hand from the swords to point at the vast sea. Suddenly, red sparks colored the air, then orange, yellow, coloring the dull sky with bright cheery colors. You sat there in your comfy seat, jaw agape as you stared at the fireworks like a baby, your ears filled with the sound of cracks and wind of the fireworks launching into the air. The show lasted longer than you expected, the last firework forming a heart shape.

Zoro planted a kiss on your forehead, looking you in the eyes with love and affection, compared to the dull and lifeless ones he gave you yesterday. “Happy Valentine’s day, Y/N.”