#I still haven't drawn what her second set of eyes would look like it's a mystery to me as well

[sysig]

I somehow forgot how fun Spider Bites is to draw ♥ (Patreon)

[hwanghyunjinenthusiast]

✨️1K Followers Celebration Day 6: Seventeen bias wrecker - Dino✨️

Affect

AN: This has been in my drafts for 600 years because those clips of him from In The Soop still haunt me. I just think it's funny that because it took me so long to get to this, we got even more shirtless Dino in the gym content recently. Clearly a sign from the universe to finish this lmao. I was going to go on a whole unhinged rant about him but, I'll spare you all. We're all going to ignore that 1. his is the longest so far and 2. I've written the most for him out of every idol, thanks.

Synopsis: You thought working out with Chan would be a fun, productive way to spend time together. However, you're sorely unprepared for just how distracting he can be.

Heads up: Lee Chan x Fem! Reader, friends to lovers of sorts, Reader going through it because of her attraction to Chan, praise kink (f. receiving), Chan being a menace, technically public sex I guess (they fuck in the gym but, no one catches them and it's not brought up as a concern), hair pulling, dirty talk, petnames used for Reader, nipple play (f. receiving), oral sex (f. receiving), fingering (f. receiving), unprotected piv sex, Reader cries a little and creampie.

Word count: 4138

I will block you if you are a minor and/or have no easily visible indication of your age on your blog if you interact with me in any way.

You knew you were doomed the moment you saw Chan in his workout clothing. His shirt sticking to his torso and practically acting like a second skin. You're sure if you looked hard enough, you could see the outlines of his nipples. His shorts were worse, somehow. Beckoning you to look at his toned thighs and zero in on how they hugged his ass.

Today is going to be more challenging than you anticipated.

"So, where do you want to start?" He asks, snapping you out of so blatantly ogling one of your closest friends. God, what're you thinking? You're here to spend time with him. Not think about how broad his shoulders are and just how muscular his ass would feel if you gave it a squeeze or five.

"You're the gym expert. You tell me," You pray to whichever deity is listening that Chan mistakes the delicate quality in your voice for anything other than how much just seeing him dressed like this affects you.

His laugh is boisterous and fills you with so much warmth, turning the already present butterflies in your stomach into dragons. One person shouldn't have this much power over you.

"I better not hear any complaining then," he responds with a wide smile, his eyes crinkling with mirth. Yeah, maybe being alone with the man you're borderline in love with isn't the wisest decision you've ever made, but it's too late now. You resist the scowl that wants to make itself known on your face when you invision a knowing Soonyoung in your mind. He's the one who suggested this to begin with. You're definitely going to be having some words with him the next time you see him, that evil man. He knew exactly what he was doing.

You severely underestimated how much worse this could get. You thought just seeing him in his tight-fitting gym attire was enough to fog up your brain but, that was before you heard the noises.

Lee Chan is a vocal man in all areas of life. Well, all areas of life that you've experienced him in. He's always talking, laughing, yelling at points, singing, sometimes rapping to fill the silence, and a million other things. The point being, Chan is not a quiet man. So, it shouldn't take you by surprise that he's vocal while he's working out too.

Still, the quiet grunts that fall from his lips and fill the otherwise relatively silent gym when he lifts weights causes your heart to beat wildly in your chest. The drawn-out groans when he finishes a set or stretches out his muscles might be the worst. Coupled with the way he grits his jaw and his face contorts when he's lifting, it's frankly a miracle you haven't spontaneously combusted.

However, as you stand and watch him while he illustrates how he wants you to lift these weights to your absolute horror and mortification, you realise you're getting wet. Not only that, but a barely there ache is beginning to make itself known between your thighs.

You're sure your face is radiating enough heat to power a small apartment building. You're really getting this worked up just watching him work out? What in the world is wrong with you? Are you truly this needy? You definitely need to call Soonyoung after this and yell at him until you're hoarse.

"Do you want to try now?" Chan asks you, kind eyes focused on you. You really might be the world's worst friend.

"Yeah, sure," you respond, pulling yourself together as best as you can given that you're unravelling at the seams. The weights aren't too heavy. You test them in your hold momentarily before imitating Chan's movements. There's a slight burn in your biceps but, otherwise you feel fine. It feels good, even. The slight burn fueling you.

"That's my girl,"

Oh.

Oh no.

That's all it takes for you to falter. Your mind suddenly completely forgetting the motions for the exercise you watched minutes ago.

"You were doing good just now but, try doing it this way," he says, standing up from where he'd been seated to watch you. His hands correcting your hold on the weights and the positioning of your arms. Every brush of his fingers on your skin leaves electricity in their wake. Fuck. Fuck this is bad. This is so bad.

Trying to remember how to be a normal human being, you nod at his words. Following his guidance and resuming the exercise precisely how he showed you now that your brain is semi-functional again.

"There you go. Good job," perhaps you should be a little more concerned about just how much his praise increases your pulse and worsens the way your panties are already sticking to you, but that's a thought for examining on another day. You can only handle so much right now.

"How about some pull-ups next?"

"Chan, do I strike you as the kind of person even capable of doing a single pull-up?"

"You could learn today,"

When all you respond with is a stone faced expression, he seems to get the message loud and clear, "Okay, fine. I'll do pull-ups and you do squats. How does that sound?"

"Now you're speaking my language,"

On the ever growing list of 'things you're violently unprepared for today', the next to be added is Chan just casually taking off his shirt. That stops you dead in your tracks. Your lips parting as his bare back comes into your line of sight. You thought it was broad before, but now? Seeing it completely bare? Broad feels like too simplistic of a word to describe it.

You knew, logically, that Chan was ripped. You've seen his arms, paying special attention to them more times than you care to admit. All of the guys work out regularly, and most of them mention Chan as one of the more dedicated members of the group when it came to hitting the gym.

You knew all of that, and yet, seeing the evidence a mere few metres in front of your very eyes leaves you speechless and stunned. Chan must notice your blatantly staring because he turns to look at you over his shoulder, "Is everything okay?"

You must struggle to come up with a believable response too long because he both looks and sounds panicked as he continues on, "Shit, did I make you uncomfortable? I should've asked if you were okay with me taking my shirt off. I'm sorry."

His panic must be infectious because you soon find yourself in a similar state, "No, no, Chan, it's okay. You did nothing wrong. I don't mind you being shirtless," quite the opposite actually, and that's the issue, but you decide to keep that bit to yourself.

"Are you sure? I really don't mind putting it back on if it's a problem,"

"Yes, I'm sure. It's really not a big deal,"

He looks unsure briefly but seems to accept your words. Giving you a nod before turning back to face the pull-up bar and begin his routine. You barely register the faint sting in your thighs from how deeply your nails are clawing into them. Eagle eyes drinking in as much as you can of every muscle contraction of his back. Your panties growing uncomfortably wet now as your ears are assaulted with grunts louder than the ones before.

You need to take a cold shower that lasts hours after this. At least you have a good month's worth of masturbation material now, so there's that.

Chan finishes his set far quicker than you would've liked. Sweat drenching his handsome face and droplets running down his jaw, his neck, his collarbones, his pecs until they disappear into the waistband of his shorts. Would it be so horrible to admit that you'd love to see just where those droplets wind up? That you'd happily follow their path with your tongue instead of your eyes?

"Hey, is everything okay?" Chan asks, dropkicking you out of your obscene thoughts.

"Ye-Yeah. Why do you ask?"

"It's just um you haven't really moved, and you've been kind of...staring at me?"

Oh no. Oh god, he noticed. No fucking shit he noticed you've probably been staring at him with all of the subtly of a rhino in a tea shop. Why did you have to make a day meant to be catching up with a friend so fucking weird.

"I-sorry. You're just distracting," is what comes out of your mouth in your blind panic.

"Distracting?" He asks, titling his head, "I'm distracting? Distracting how?"

By being shirtless, with all of the noises you've been making all day, by touching me, by telling me what a good job I've been doing, by just existing in the same space as me - are all of the thoughts that spring up in your mind. All the thoughts you show a great deal of restraint in not word vomiting out at him.

To your absolute mortification, an expression akin to understanding dawns on Chan's face. You've never wanted the Earth to spilt open and swallow you whole more than in this moment.

"Oh, I'm distracting huh?" Chan asks with a grin a touch too arrogant for you, taking a step towards you.

"No! It's not - I'm not - I wasn't - it wasn't like that," you stutter out, growing ever more flustered as a shirtless, sweaty Chan invades your space.

"It wasn't like what exactly?" He asks, mischief shining clear as day in his typically warm eyes.

Before you can consciously think about it, you find yourself stepping backwards. Much to the amusement of the man you're not sure if you want to kiss or throttle in front of you.

You decide to abandon the route you were on and attempt another one, "I'm sorry for staring at you."

"You don't have to apologise," Chan waves you off, "But I do want to know why you were staring,"

It's clear as day to anyone with basic critical thinking skills why you were so laser focused on his stupid back and shoulders. He just wants you to say it. You never took Chan for the humiliation type.

"You know why," you mutter, leaning against the wall that you had no idea you'd even gotten so close to. You suppose your brain is too preoccupied with trying to keep your friendship from going up into flames.

"I don't. You have to tell me," You really want to punch that shit eating grin off of his face. Your adrenaline spiking as he takes another step towards you.

"You're really annoying, you know that?"

"I've heard that once or twice over the years. Still doesn't answer my question though,"

"I think you're attractive, okay?" You finally blurt out. Looking at everything but him in the gym. Studiously focused on one of the treadmills in towards the back, over his shoulder.

"Aw, I'm flattered," he responds, so close to you now that all you'd have to do is reach out, and you'd be touching his bare chest. You have a feeling this isn't going to bode well for you.

"Whatever. You got the answer you wanted. Are you happy now?"

"You know, for being one of the smartest women I know, you're pretty dense," he responds dryly.

"What? Hey!"

"Do you really think I'd react this way to anyone saying they think I'm hot? Do I really have to spell it out for you?"

All you can do is owlishly blink at him. His words washing over you, trying your hardest to digest what he just said to you.

"I think you might have to spell it out for me, yeah," you mutter more breathlessly than you care to admit. It certainly doesn't become any easier to breathe when Chan is fully in your space, crowding you against the gym wall. His scent flooding your system, worsening the wetness between your thighs and muddling your mind even more.

"Is this okay?" He whispers, mere centimetres away from your mouth. His eyes considerably darker than they were minutes ago.

"Yes,"

"May I kiss you?"

"Yes," if anyone asks, you don't sound needy in the slightest when you reply to him.

You quickly learn that Lee Chan, as with many other facets of his life, excels in kissing you until you can think of nothing but, him. Not your mind has been anywhere else for the past few hours to begin with.

Your hands make themselves at home on his shoulders, fingers digging into the muscle there as you pour what feels like centuries worth of yearning into this kiss.

"May I touch you?" He mutters against your mouth and, you wonder why he'd ever stop kissing you to ask such a stupid question.

"Yes, Chan. You can do whatever you want. I don't care," you rush out in response, dragging his mouth back to yours to feed into what is quickly becoming your newest addiction.

With your green light, his hands drift towards your oversized shirt. Smiling against your mouth when you shudder from the brief brushes of his fingertips along your abdomen while he toys with the hem of your shirt.

"I didn't think you'd be one to tease," you say.

"Have you thought about me like this often?" You really had to be so weak for such an insufferable man huh.

You choose to kiss him instead of replying, tugging on his hair in retaliation for the grin you know is on his face. Luckily for you, Chan seems to have had his fill of toying with you for now. Shoving your shirt upwards, pulling away from you briefly to tug it off of you fully.

He just stares at you. Want clear as day in his eyes as he watches your chest rise and fall and how your sports bra outlines your hardened nipples. You find yourself growing a little self-conscious under his heavy gaze. You hadn't picked your outfit with the goal of winding up like this in mind.

"You're staring," you finally find the courage to say, pushing down every instinct to cross your arms over your chest.

"Just returning the favour," he quips back, jumping back into action and acquainting himself with your throat. You can't help the moans and throaty gasps that leave your lips as his kisses and nips at your sensitive skin, exploiting every weak spot he can find. One of his hands reaching down to fondle your breast, running his thumb over your nipple through the fabric of your bra.

All you can manage to do is lean against the wall for stability. Every kiss and lick and squeeze sending lightning down your spine straight to your clit. You wouldn't be surprised if your legging were wet, too, at this point.

"You're so responsive," he whispers against your neck. Given how quietly he said it, you're not sure whether he meant to verbalise that thought or not, but you can't think to respond when he pushes your bra up.

He dots kisses along your breasts. Each press of his lips bringing him closer and closer to one of your nipples before he envelopes one into his warm mouth. He seems intent to wring every noise, every reaction out of you that he possibly can. Teasingly running his teeth along the sensitive bud, smiling when you arch into his touch. His nimble fingers find themselves at the waistband of your leggings. Slipping into them and pulling a particularly loud gasp from you when they come into contact with your more than likely ruined panties.

Your face burns when Chan's expression morphs into one of surprise, his fingers running along your panty covered slit as if to affirm to himself you're really this wet already.

"I didn't realise I had such a strong effect on you," he says against your breast, his voice gravelly, "Fuck, you're already so wet."

A strangled moan is all you can offer when he finds your swollen clit.

"Poor baby. Don't worry, I'll take care of you. Just need to get you out of these," he says, kneeling in front of you and pulling your leggings and panties down. You kick off your shoes impatiently to help ease the process, leaving you almost fully naked.

"I can't believe you're this wet when I haven't even touched you properly," he says, sounding genuinely amazed. Intense gaze focused on your swollen, slick slit. Lifting one of your legs and letting it rest over one of his shoulders.

Anticipation settles in your gut as Chan makes himself comfortable between your thighs. Your hips jolting into him when he experimentally touches you once more, completely bare this time. Your wetness generously coating his thick fingers. Your eyes flutter shut as he shifts closer, goosebumps rising all over your body when his warm breaths hit you.

His first lap of you is messy and passionate. A muffled groan is your only warning before he grips your thigh and all but shoves his face into you. One of your hands fists his hair, not sure if you want him even closer or whether you need a minute from the sensations wreaking your system.

"Ch-Chan ah god," you cry out, your hold on his hair worsening. He doesn't seem to mind all that much, however. Intently focused on grinding your pussy against tongue until you fall into pieces for him.

With his mouth latched onto your clit, he teases your entrance with two of his fingers and you feel faint. His eyes find yours momentarily, looking at you through his hair as he checks for any signs of discomfort or reservations. Watching your face while he slowly sinks his fingers into you. His cock leaking even more when your warm, wet walls squeeze his fingers for dear life. He's so fucked.

The stretch his fingers provide requires some adjusting to, and Chan catches onto that. Focusing his attention back on your clit and providing some distraction while you get used to his fingers.

The wall behind you is proving to be extremely helpful. You're sure you would've crumpled onto the floor by now with the way Chan is determined to devour you whole and his fingers curl inside of you. Embarrassment warming your face as the squelching sounds of your wetness and his fingers moving inside of you hit your ears. Those sounds are accompanied by louder moans and whimpers from you when his fingers strike gold. Finding your weak spot and going for the kill.

He exploits your weaknesses gleefully, assaulting the spot over and over again while he continues his ministrations on your clit. It's no wonder your orgasm doesn't take long to slam into you. Watery cries of his name and jumbled curses echoing throughout the empty gym. You're sure you're hurting him from how fiercely you're gripping his hair. You couldn't remember the last time you'd cum this hard. Sagging against the wall when the most intense parts of it subside.

Chan presses one last kiss to your pussy before easing his fingers out of you. Standing up on unsteady legs, cupping your jaw and slamming his mouth against yours. The taste of yourself on his tongue further fueling the fog clouding your mind. Desperate hands dragging him closer to you, revelling in his closeness and the firmness of his body against your own.

"If I knew you tasted this good, I would've offered to eat you out a long time ago," he says when you shift to litter kisses on his jaw.

"If I knew you did it so well, I would've let you," you respond with an easy smile. However, any humour in your tone dissipates when you register his cock pressing against your thigh. Scorching and heavy even through the material of his shorts. Fuck.

Your mouth finds his once more. Teeth and tongue clashing with one another as he grinds himself against you, groaning into you.

"Chan, please," you whine.

"Hmm? Please, what?" You're not sure if he's genuinely too disoriented to understand what you're asking of him or if he wants you to beg. Either way, you've long since abandoned any semblance of pride.

"Please fuck me,"

His eyes shut briefly, and you watch the way his jaw clenches, "You're going to be the death of me."

If you weren't aching and noticeably empty, you might've giggled at his words. Watching him shove his shorts and underwear down his thick, muscular thighs through lidded eyes. A fresh wave of wetness gushes out of you when his cock springs free. Of course his cock would look mouthwatering too. Of course.

"You really do like to stare, huh?" he muses, stepping closer to you. Hoisting one of your legs over his elbow.

"Sh-Shut up," you stutter, fingernails digging into his biceps as he drags his cock along your pussy. His cock glistening with your arousal in no time.

"That's not nice," he faux pouts, nudging your entrance with his tip. Your knees almost buckle underneath you. A moan bubbling out of just from him toying with you.

"Chan, please. I want it. I want you, please-"

You're promptly cut off when he pushes inside of you. If you thought the stretch provided by his fingers was overwhelming, the girth of cock brings tears to your eyes. Your strained gasps and his restrained groans intertwining.

Is it possible to cum just from being so full? Lee Chan might just help you answer that question. You're not sure you've ever felt so full and stretched out in your entire life. A few stray tears running down your face already.

"Are you okay?" He asks, looking just as wrecked and overwhelmed as you feel. He's practically vibrating from the effort not to move. His cock pulsing inside of you.

"Ye-Yeah. It doesn't hurt. You can move," you respond. It's now or never.

Chan starts off very slowly. Letting you grow accustomed to his girth with every drag of him along your walls. Muttering quiet praises into your neck about how well you're doing, how good you feel, and how you're taking him so well. His words prompting you to clench around him and gush around him.

"Chan, faster, please. You can move faster. It's okay, I can take it," you whine. You feel like you're going to lose your mind if he keeps thrusting so slowly. His consideration is sweet. Really, it is, but it's torturous too. From the way he seems to be restraining himself, you assume the feeling is mutual.

Something snaps in him then. His eyes more feral than they were moments ago as he picks up his pace considerably. The sounds of your wetness and skin slapping against skin mingling with your respective noises of pleasure.

"Taking my cock like such a good girl," he groans into your shoulder, sliding impossibly deeper into you when he angles himself a little differently than before.

Perhaps he's noticed the way his praise impacts you. His filthy mouth not stopping.

"Look, baby," he mutters lowly into your ear, "I want you to look at how well your pussy takes me,"

You can't find it in you to disobey. Chasing the high of being his good girl. So, you glance downwards. Your cheeks heating up as you watch him fuck into you and the way you're being split open by him. You never thought the sight of yourself being fucked would garner such a strong reaction from you but, you've been learning quite a bit about yourself today.

"It's hot, isn't it?" He asks, a moan falling from his lips when you tighten around him, "So hot watching me fuck this pretty pussy of yours."

You've never cum just from penetration but, Chan is proving himself to be head and shoulders above every other man you've slept with. You're completely and utterly caught off guard when you cum for a second time and, Chan seems to be too. Startled, wide eyes watching you shatter in front and around him for a second time. Ever the caring gentleman as he soothes and fucks you through it.

You're barely coherent when Chan's pitchy moans of your name register to your mind and you feel his warm, thick cum flood your awaiting pussy. His hips weakly twitching into yours with ever spurt of his cum inside of you.

Honestly, it's a wonder both of you are still standing. Barely, but you're standing. Leaning into each other and the trusty wall for support as you come back to yourselves.

"If working out with you always ends up like this, we should work out together more often," he says, kissing your neck and shoulder lazily.

You really just had to fall for one of the most eye roll inducing men you've ever met, huh.

[xetswan]

The Switch of Daylight- Reincarnate Pt. 2

(Alice x Reader x Jasper)

[six] [seven] [eight]

That night I laid in my bed, casually going from staring at my ceiling to the books and the papers I have information written on. My eyes then flicker over to the whipped up papers from the letter that Alice and Jasper gave me. My fists begin to clench from the thought of how Sam knew that what was in that letter was about some prophecy that I'm in. ME. It's valuable to knowing what or who I am.

I go back to staring up at the ceiling. This was a the worst time for me. Especially because it's the loneliest. It was better when I had the Cullen's. I'd sneak out of the window when I knew Charlie was sleeping and go hang out with them until it was time for me to go back in the morning before my dad would check that I was sleeping in bed. It became a habit for him after I went missing. I knew he still had a hard time with it, it's something I feel guilty for knowing that eventually I'm going to have to fake my death. Alice and the other's, I knew they were right. That he's going to question me when I'm forty with no wrinkles. That's why I'm going to do it in a few years, when I know he's happier. When he's found someone for himself to lean on.

I just hope he isn't stubborn enough to not find that person.

I should call Billy Black before I forget.

Just then I get some weird energy burst through me, I sit upright quickly. I look around my room confused. "What the hell?" I whisper to myself, probably not even audible to a normal human. Standing up, I go over to the books. Feeling myself getting drawn over to them, which is strange. I read through them numerous times, I shouldn't have missed anything. I grab the second book, opening it up and flipping through it. Then as I sit back down on my bed, my eyes start to feel heavy. Like I was actually getting tired. I haven't felt this feeling for months. It was a feeling I didn't think I was going to miss.

I lay back down on the bed and let it take over my body.

But when I woke up I wasn't home. I was awake, it felt cloudy though, possibly a dream but more real. "[Name], help yer brother set up the fishin' trap!" A man's voice called out. I sat up from the bed I was in, glancing down to see the white cotton dress I wore. I scrunched up my face, confused on what was happening.

"[Name], come on! Didn't ya hear yer father?" A woman storms into the room I was in and I stare at her, not understanding what was happening. "I- what?" I spoke with uncertainty.

"Yer father told ya to help yer brother, [Name] and you ain't even dressed?" The woman tsk's at me, a baby on her hip who babbles adorably. "My father?" I rub my forehead, getting up from the bed. "[Name] Adkins, don't play dumb wit' me and do as yer told." She points a finger in my face before slamming the wooden door behind her. I glance around before going over to a dresser, pulling out some dress. I huff, staring at whatever kind of style this was.

"Where the fuck am I?" I go to pinch myself to wake up but nothing happens. I even feel the pain.

"Adkins? Who the fuck is Adkins?" I mutter to myself, throwing the dress over my head. Smoothing it out before looking around the room I'm in once again. It had a wooden dresser, then a strange mirror that seemed nailed into the wooden wall. I then look at my bed that had quilts laid on it with a two pillows.

"Strange." I finally leave the room, the house was smaller. It's like when you go to a museum type place that builds the houses from "the past", this is exactly what it looks like.

Are the Quileute boys playing some prank on me?

I go outside, a body comes up next to me, nudging me and I almost attack it. Then my body freezes once I notice who it was. "Jasper?" I step back. "Yes, darlin'?" He chuckles, pulling me in for a kiss. My body's tense as I let it happen. "Aren't you mad at me?" I ask once he lets me go. Not even realizing I was trying to catch my breath.

Catch my breath?

I then feel my heart beating and the sun down on me, a slight panic sets through me but I hide it. "Mad at you, whatever for, sweetheart?" Jasper questions me, he takes my arm in his and we are walking to a small boy who's setting up some wired trap. "For... for-" I look at his clothes, he's wearing a loose white button up with pants that seemed maybe a little tight. And to top it off a cowboy hat on the top of his head. "I don't know." I laugh nervously. It all catching up with me, his accent, his outfit, the mysterious woman.

This is a past life.

My first life. 

"All right, if you say so, darlin'." He kisses my cheek before joining the little boy to help him with the trap he was making.

"Honey, can you hold Jesiah while I start up dinner?" The same woman comes over to me, handing me the baby before I can even respond. "Uh, of course." I mutter out. My memories of this life are a little fuzzy. I'm slowly remembering though. The little boy, making the trap is Jakov my younger brother who's 9, the baby is obviously Jesiah. My father, he's Jakov too, my brother is named after him. And the mysterious woman, she's my mother, Willow.

I carefully walk down the hill with the baby, sitting down near Jasper and Jakov.

This seems like a really simple life. Jasper is my love in my first ever life. Who would've thought? I know I saw him in the dessert field before I was killed but I didn't know we actually knew each other. Why didn't he tell me?

"Darlin'! You alright? You seem dazed." Jasper comes up to me, I smile over at him. "Just remembering something about you." I answer him, it's the truth I am. He just doesn't know it's from his future. "What about me?" He nudges me with his elbow before tickling my baby brother a little bit, just enough to make him smile. "How we first met." I lean my head on his shoulder.

"Oh wow, that's been quite some time." He chuckles, wrapping an arm around me and we both watch my little brother use the fishing trap they just put together. "Now we're finally to be wed..." He whispers, my eyes widen quickly covering it up even though he doesn't see it. How didn't I remember this when I got my memories back? I feel something on my neck and I go to feel it. It's a locket. Almost like the one my father gave when I moved to Forks. I look down at it and it's the exact one...

And just as I go to ask him a question everything starts to get tiring. My eyes getting heavy, and as much as I try to fight it, I fall asleep with my head on Jasper's shoulder.

I thought this time I would wake back up to my real home. My life I'm supposed to be in right now but instead I wake up in a hospital. Confused I rub my head, sitting up.

A nurse comes in, her face was skinny, her eyes sunken in like she hasn't slept in weeks. "Please, no trouble today, [Name]." She has a syringe needle on a tray with other things, placing it down in-front of me. I stay quiet, letting her do what she needs to do. "You're not going to bite today?" She seemed relieved, I mean I would too knowing someone wasn't going to bite me in a what I'm guessing is a mental hospital. "No." I whisper, rubbing my arm after she gets done with what she's doing.

"Why am I here?" I question quietly. "Don't mess with me [Name]." She scoffs in my direction, writing something down in a file. "I'm not." I truthfully tell her. "You tried to jump off of a bridge, you can't tell me you don't remember that, [Name]." She places her hands on her hips after placing the file down.

"Why am I still here?" I ask, trying to act like that was my actual question and not the first one. "You've resisted help and fought the staff until today, which is strange I might add." Her voice was hoarse, raspy even. "Oh, sorry." I glance away from her.

"I'm going to get the doctor to check you and then it's time for breakfast." She rolls her eyes, leaving the room, shutting the door behind her and I'm alone in the room again.

I stand up, seeing a mirror across from me. I look at myself in the mirror. It's definitely a two way mirror. Someone could be on the other side of it watching me. I squint my eyes to check if I can see anything, knowing that I can't I move on to the next thing in the room. A water bottle. Man, I might look crazy right now. I guess it fits being where I am. I can't believe one of my lives I wanted to die. I actually wanted death. What happened to me? My memories of my past lives are being subjective and I'm not enjoying this at all.

The door suddenly opens to show a man in a white coat. I back away from him instinctively. My arms tingle with goosebumps. The hairs standing up on my skin and I suddenly feel like I'm in danger.

"Hey, it's just me" Yeah I think that's the problem. "Take a seat on the bed." He tells me and I shake my head. Why do I feel this way? "[Name] you were being so cooperative I heard, what happened?" There's a smile on his face but it doesn't feel welcoming. "Hey the sooner you do as you're told the sooner you can get out of here." He tries to come near me but I back away once more, accidentally falling onto the bed anyways. "See, wasn't so hard." He grabs the stool from across the room, scooting it over to the bed I'm now sitting on. "Alright, have you been taking your medicine?"

And dejavu kicks in. I remember this. I wasn't taking the medicine, I hid it under my tongue then threw it away. "Yes." I lie. I obviously did it for a reason. This isn't real anyways. I'm reliving past things. I think...

The consultation was long, but luckily now they're letting me out of this room to go eat breakfast. A nurse walked beside me, a file in hand, she was writing as she walked. I observed the hospital around me, the people I mean. They were all different. Obviously, that was stupid to say.

The nurse helped me get my food and then I sat down by myself. I begin to eat the crappy food, thankfully it didn't taste like sand. I miss having tastebuds like I used to. Caught in thought about missing food I didn't even see the smaller body that sat in front of me. When I glanced upwards I see it's Alice.

My Alice.

She seems more frail than I've ever seen her. She smiles at me and I do it back. Now trying to see if I can remember anything.

I'm only seeing bits and pieces of things in my mind, we've kissed in this life. "Did he do anything this time?" She speaks. I look up at her confused. "He?" I question. "Doctor Monse. Did he try to hurt you again?" She asks, my eyes widen slightly. That's why I felt danger around him...

"He didn't." I say, I notice her shoulders relax. "Good, you're being cooperative now." She smiles, she didn't ask this, it was a statement. I wonder how she knew. "Yes." I admit. "My words finally gotten to your head?" I feel her hand reach for mine underneath the table, I take it immediately. "Your words?" I smile back to her, tilting my head. "How you should take your chance to leave, and just visit me instead of keeping yourself cooped up here." She reminds me and my mouth goes in the shape of an 'o'.

"Right." I nervously laugh quietly. "I don't want to, but I could help us become something out there." I tell her, mentally I'm confused by my own words. It's like it wasn't me who actually said it. "Love, you don't need to worry about an us. I'm stuck here." She rubs my hand with her thumb.

"I can get you out." I assure her, she stays quiet this time, only a shake of her head in response before we're all told lunch time is about to be over.

Looking at her I start to become tired. "No." I whisper. Sitting up straight and letting go of Alice's hand. "Are you alright?" She asks me in a mumbled tone. "I want to be here with you a little longer." I urge out, trying to fight the tiredness. "Love bug you have to go home." She tells me, the nickname. That was always my nickname? My chest rises and falls in a quick pace. I don't want to leave. Not yet. Even if this is a dream somehow. Please... I didn't realize my time was going to be so short in my past lives.

And now it's dark.

When I wake up, I'm not gasping for air. I'm not breathing anymore. I'm home again. "Damn it!" I shout, punching my bed, unintentionally breaking one of the boards underneath. "Shit." I whisper, standing up, and on the floor is the second book I was holding before I fell asleep and went into some weird whatever thing that was. I pick it up and open it to a random page.

"Reincarnate's Soulmates."

Soulmate's as in multiple?

I swear I didn't see this page when I read through it before.

I need Jasper and Alice here. I don't understand any of this.

I need to call Billy or Sam. I don't care. I need help understanding what's going on.

[draeisgrayte]

Under the Goddess' Veil [TEASER]

A/n: This fic was a tad bit spur of the moment to take a break from rewriting some of Lady of Amberguard. Turns out I really like the idea and haven't been able to stop writing on it for 2 days. I will say this will be a bit of plot in the first 4 or 5 thousand words but from then on...dear Lord forgive me for the absolute FILTH I have planned.

Description: I'll give a silly one for right now, basically a maiden gets sacrificed to 5 dragons and a lot of fucking happens. The end.

Pairings: Obanai Iguro, Sanemi Shinazugawa, Giyuu Tomioka, Uzui Tengen, and Kyojuro Rengoku x reader

ENJOY!

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

“I was supposed to be sacrificed to you for the honor of my village…” You trail off, trying to connect the dots. You glance in the direction of Sanemi, his usually stern eyes softening when they connect with yours. “Are you going to eat me?” Your words sound pitiful, like you had accepted that fact already – and you had. You’d be raised on the single constant that you would be fed to the Gods atop the neverending tips.

Uzui appears in front of you, a lazy smirk playing with his lips as he leans down to be eye level with you. “Not in the way you’re thinking.” He purrs, rolling his smirk into his mouth.

Kyojuro pushes forward, his long hair whipping in the wind Obanai was still creating. “Your humans assume when we request a maiden to be given to us that we would feast upon her supple flesh,” He sighs, looking at Obanai as he speaks. “Every century our loneliness becomes unbearable. There was the occasional soul that attempted to harm us, wanting to take the hoard for themself, but that didn’t last long. Other draconics would visit us, but some of them would fight for our territory.” Your eyes are drawn to Sanemi again and his plethora of scars. He avoids your gaze at all costs, he finds the outer wall of the cave particularly interesting.

Kyojuro continues with a solemn smile. “Then one day a beautiful woman found her way into the lower tunnels. She came begging us to help her village, people were sick – dying. She was ready to give anything to us for the sake of the people.”

Uzui, who is leaning against the wall, pipes up again. “So she gave us her body.” Your brows knit together. Her body? What exactly did that mean? Kyojuro shoots him a glare before setting himself in front of your gaze, staring into your eyes.

“The women before you were scared, frightened of the big bad monsters within the Ponorich peaks. Most of them tried to escape with no avail…they would get lost and starve or stay within our sight and do the same thing. There were others that would find our hoard and selfishly conspire to harm us to take it.” Kyojuro’s eyes are bright swirls. “We want a mate, a bride.” Bride…you had dreamed about a day adorned with joy once. It had been a quick thought, squashed by the reality that you understood from a very young age. Though, now perhaps you could live the life that had been taken away from you.

The wind dies down and you quickly look behind to find Obanai stepping onto the edge in a graceful manner. He nods his head at you, an ethereal glow still present in his eyes. It made your stomach dip in the strangest way. "You can have one of us,” He waves his arm to the group of men, their eyes trained on you. Obanai steps forward, picking up your hands softly. You peer at him through your lashes. “Or all of us." He finishes. A distinguishing feeling glides through your very being. Something that tells you if you were going to die for the village the least you could do was live for them.

"I-I'd like to have all of you..." You stammer, your confidence dropping with every second. When did you decide to become so brazen? Here you were, a maiden surrounded by five men that surely looked upon you with heat and desire.

"Are you sure you can handle that little doe? Becoming the wife of five hungry dragons isn't going to be easy. You will ache when you are without us and you will ache when you are with us." Giyuu coos, placing a hand on your back. It sends licks of warmth that jolt to where you had never been touched.

“You will become ours in every way possible.” Uzui is now to your other side, hand upon your waist. “We will take you whenever we want,” A piece of hair falls to the side of his ear, distracting you for a moment until he brings your gaze back to him with fingers under your chin. “And you can take us whenever you want.”

Kyojuro hangs his arms around your shoulders, placing himself square behind you. The thin material of your slip does nothing to hide the warmth radiating off the man. “When our heat occurs you will have to be careful. One of us may ravish you and then two more join in.” He nudges your head with affection and your stomach stirs.

“Are you willing to make sacrifices?” Sanemi asks, still standing a few feet away from the huddle the rest of them had now created around you.

“I was raised to do so.” You reply, a confident nod moving your head.

[rinstrumental]

so kiss me

tanthamore /

# inspired by kiss me - sixpence none the richer 💋 occurs before the events of the show!! no beta we die like ballantine, cross posted on ao3, gave them a more dramatic height difference because I Can

"I can't stand these things," Kit declared, defiantly slamming her cup down on the table and earning a glare from Sorsha a few meters away. Not that she'd notice her mother's disapproval, anyway.

Jade set her own cup down slowly, as if the delicateness of her own actions would make up for the roughness of Kit's. It was another beautiful night spent in the stuffy confines of the banquet hall. Jade longed to leave the party - maybe even a little more than Kit did - but it was not her job to entertain the rebellious tendencies of the princess, as much as she wanted to.

"Would you like to dance?" Jade asked lightly, noting the restlessness of Kit's hands. The band was playing well tonight, and the dance floor was crowded. Those who weren't dancing were drinking and eating and chatting noisily away. She knew that the last thing Kit wanted right now was to be around other people, but it didn't hurt to try, right?

And Jade was right. "Have you seen the amount of people on the floor? I haven't seen it this crowded ever. And Mom will get me to dance with some stupid suitor from god-knows-where and maybe even talk to him." Kit shuddered at the thought, earning a laugh from Jade. Always the optimist.

"I wouldn't mind dancing, though," Kit admitted a moment later. "But only with you."

"I have to say the same, Your Highness," she replied. For a second, all Kit could see was Jade and her eyes that got so bright when they were under the light and her beautiful red hair and the freckles dotted across her face. I could count them, she thought. I could stare at her for hours and then tell her how many freckles she has.

When Jade finally looked away, Kit hadn't even noticed what had drawn her attention away in the first place. She followed her gaze to where the commotion seemed to be coming from. A barrel of wine had been knocked over and was leaking red all over the floor.

"How did that even happen?" Jade muttered, almost in awe. The crowd was split and running to avoid the mess, the commotion deafening, and without the melodic tunes previously playing in the background, it was chaos. Sorsha was dancing around the puddles on the ground, calling for someone to get up and do something to stop the leak!

Jade averted her eyes, the thought of seeing the queen in such a state feeling somewhat wrong. Kit, on the other hand, was absolutely thrilled, her face lit up and a laugh lodged in her throat.

"Let's go!" she hissed excitedly, and without another thought, Kit had swung her legs over the bench and jumped to her feet. Jade followed suit, not even realizing what she was doing until she was standing. "Wait, what? Are you actually going to help?" she asked in disbelief, eyes flickering between the mess in the middle of the hall and the wild look on Kit's face. Why was she even asking that? She knew Kit. She was not going to dive headfirst into saving her mother from embarrassment out of pure goodwill.

Right again. "Jade, as much as I'm dying to get drenched in wine, I have other plans. Now come on, please?" Kit's hand was outstretched, tempting.

"Where are we going?" Although Kit did often refer to these parties as 'so boring it'll make you kill yourself', she'd hardly ever actually left one halfway. Sorsha had her ways of coercing her daughter into 'royal duties', and they worked.

Mostly.

"You'll know. It's not like the grounds are that big," Kit teased, waiting for Jade to take her hand. Just waiting, not hoping - somehow, she didn't have a doubt in her head that she'd refuse.

Their hands collided together, Kit wasting no time in grabbing the other's the moment she reached out. She always liked the way Jade's hands felt. Warm and slightly bigger than hers - calloused and scarred but still gentle. Kit's were cold and unscathed, so it was a nice change.

The pair stole out of the hall and into the cobblestone courtyard, heavy skirts hitched up to reveal their scruffy matching boots underneath. Jade couldn't help but grin when she saw Kit wearing them too. Sure, they would wear troublesome gowns and pin their hair back into place for a night, but world be damned if they had to force their feet into those suffocating heels.

"What she doesn't know won't hurt her," Kit said, 'her' being Sorsha. She broke into a run, still pulling Jade along with her. There was no need to rush, but the adrenaline rush from their escape (and Jade's hand in hers') was nothing short of exhilarating.

They ran all the way around the castle to one of the gardens, next to a huge floor to ceiling window that looked into the hall that they'd just left. The surroundings were weakly illuminated by the light coming from indoors, a light breeze rustling the trees and bushes. Clearly the situation had finally been resolved, because the din was relatively softer now. The barrel had been run dry, and the servants were now dutifully mopping up the mess.

If someone inside the hall had looked at the floor near where the window ended, they would have seen two pairs of eyes peering into the room. Jade and Kit stood and watched beneath the window, the latter on tiptoes and thoroughly enjoying watching the aftermath of the disorder.

"Looks like nobody managed to stop the leak in time," Jade commented. "What a waste of wine."

"It was probably diluted to hell," Kit scoffed, dropping back onto her heels and dusting off her hands.

Jade turned away from the window. "What are you going to do when your mother notices you're missing?"

"That's for future me to deal with."

"You know, with the amount of trouble you get into, one would have assumed that by now you'd have a way to get out of it."

"Thinking ahead is… is not something I'm familiar with. You should know that about me."

"With all due respect, Your Highness, I know. Because you usually drag me into it too."

The band inside the hall started up again. The music was low at first, uncertain, but after a few cheers from the crowd the music came back in full force.

Jade took a deep breath of the sweet night air, glad to finally be outside and able to enjoy the wonderful weather. A radiant full moon hung above them, accompanied by a swarm of stars.

While she watched the sky, Kit physically could not take her eyes off Jade. If the flickering candlelight lit up Jade's eyes, the milky moonlight practically made them glow. Despite their mutual hatred for party gowns, Kit couldn't help admiring Jade and the way her dark green dress draped so prettily no matter the way she moved.

"Jade Claymore, will you dance with me?" The words left her mouth before she let herself overthink it. Jade's gaze shifted to the girl standing in front of her. The music played softly behind them, filling the silence as Jade shuffled across the lawn to Kit. Her dress dragged across the ground and rustled the grass, but she stepped carefully so as to not trample the wildflowers. She smiled again when she stopped, and Kit thought she'd never see anything more beautiful.

"Who am I to deny my royal Highness?" This time, Jade took Kit's hand first, to the princess' surprise, gently pulling her in close before letting her hands settle on Kit's waist. Her grip was loose, almost hovering. Kit put her arms around Jade's shoulders, hoping that she would take the damn hint and hold her properly.

There was barely an inch between them now, the slight height difference doing nothing to stop the fervent eye contact. Kit couldn't suppress her smile as they danced. It was nothing complicated like the tedious routines her mother forced her to learn years ago - this was simple. It was perfect.

"Why do they overcomplicate dancing so much?" Kit whispered. "All those stupid steps and unnecessary twirling. This is much nicer… just getting to hold the other person and move to the music, you know?" Jade's hands relaxed little by little as she talked, the tension melting as their usual banter returned.

"I think I like this more too. But maybe I shouldn't judge - I never had professional lessons like you did, after all."

"You know, I used to pretend the instructor was… someone else. It made it feel a bit less like torture."

Jade wasn't one to jump to conclusions, especially when it came to Kit - but the way she looked away when she had mentioned the 'someone else' was telling, needless to say. "Was it me?"

She'd meant to make it sound teasing, unserious. But once again her unwavering loyalty betrayed her, and the words had sounded a lot more genuine than she'd wanted them to. Kit's eyes widened at the response, expecting a change of topic instead of the boldest question Jade has ever challenged her with.

"What if it was?"

"…I'd be flattered, I suppose." Jade's mind raced to find the words, still caught up on the fact that she'd even said that. "And surprised?"

The music stopped, replaced by distant claps and cheers. It was like the noises in the vicinity had doubled in volume - the chirping of crickets, the whispering wind, and the quick beating of two hearts. None of them could remember when Jade pulled Kit in so close that their bodies were now pressed against each other, or when Kit's hands came to rest on the nape of Jade's neck.

Neither of them pulled apart, even though everywhere they were touching seemed to burn, even though their faces were so, so close.

For the first time tonight, Kit deliberated the words on her tongue. She didn't dare imagine what Jade would say or do in response, but she held onto that little spark of hope. The spark of hope she felt whenever she noticed Jade staring at her from the corner of her eye.

"Can I kiss you?"

Oh, was all Jade could think. Oh, oh, oh. The princess' bright blue eyes were filled with what Jade could only describe as longing, and she wondered if they mirrored her own. Wondered if all those years spent trying to convince herself that her heart beat for the kingdom of Tir Asleen and not the heir to the throne were for naught. Wondered if she loved her back.

Jade nodded tentatively, exhaling shakily. She hated false hopes. She waited for Kit to pull away, or laugh that she was joking, but it didn't come.

Kit leaned forward and her lips brushed against Jade's, more carefully and tenderly than anything else she had ever handled in her life. When Jade didn't reciprocate, Kit's eyes fluttered open, her heart dropping. Had she somehow misunderstood? And now her friendship was ru-

Jade crashed her lips into hers, banishing any other thought from Kit's mind as the taller girl pulled her in even closer and craned her neck to meet Kit halfway. Kissing Jade was beyond anything Kit could have ever imagined, her arms tightening around Jade's neck and for a beautiful moment she wasn't Princess Kit of Tir Asleen, she was just Kit and Jade was just Jade and this was all she'd ever needed. Both relief and want flooded her veins, so impossibly glad that the redhead had wanted this just as much as she did.

The loud thumping of two pairs of footsteps approaching, accompanied by a familiar voice shouting Kit's name, forced Jade to pull back, breaking the kiss. Kit made a whine of disdain.

"I think that's the Queen, Princess," Jade whispered, looking wistfully to the side. Her hands were still shaking, heart rate jumping off the charts from the kiss, but she fell to her first instinct - to protect the princess. Kissing her was nice, of course, but she couldn't do that when Kit's mother was angrily lecturing her.

"Imagine her face when she finds her daughter sneaking off to swap spit with her best friend," Kit deadpanned, unraveling herself from Jade's grasp. She missed feeling Kit against her already. Their hands remained tightly entwined as Kit hitched up her skirt, as if she was getting ready to make a break for it. "Don't worry, I have a plan."

"Which is to run from your mother and rile her up even more?"

"You know me so well."

[ilyasorokinn]

just like dad , rooster

note, this is my application to join top gun tumblr. so.... slay! anyways, i love rooster as a dad and might make this a little au family series. haven't thought that far into the future. if people enjoy this, lmk if you want to see a little family series. another note, i promise all my fics aren't dad content. i have three other fics in my drafts (all top gun related) that aren't dad content. pair, bradley "rooster" bradshaw x reader summary, bradley left for a mission two days ago, and his daughter, jamie, misses him. so y/n helps take her mind off it. warnings, children word count, 849 words (shorty but a goodie)

(gif not mine)

Bradley had only been gone on his mission for 2 days but you could tell that Jamie was taking it hard. She always did whenever he went away. It wasn't even a long mission, but it always felt like an eternity to Jamie in her 4-year-old brain.

"When's daddy coming home?" Jamie had been asking that question all morning.

"In two days." You answered as you set a plate of fruit in front of her.

"That's so far away." She whined, picking at the strawberries on her plate.

You watched her eat her breakfast before a thought popped into your head, "I have an idea." Once she was done eating breakfast, you both got ready and headed for the mall.

"Do you know what that says?" You asked Jamie as you approached the store. She shook her head, but her eyes were drawn to all the colorful bears lining the walls of the store.

"Bears." She pointed.

"Yeah." You set her down and let her run around, looking at all the bears. When she finally picked out a bear, you moved over to the sound station.

You played her a couple voicemails that Rooster had left and she finally made up her mind after listening to all of them, "Hi, Jamie-Jam! Daddy misses you, and I'll be home real soon. I love you, and don't forget to give mommy a big kiss for me."

She stuffed it, gave the heart a big kiss, then placed it inside the back of the bear. After getting him all sewed up, she wandered around the clothing area. Lots of accessories for her new bear caught her attention, but when she saw the pair of sunglasses, her eyes went wide, and she made an immediate beeline over to them.

You couldn't help but laugh as she passed up the pair of pink sunglasses, that you knew would match the pair she had at home, in favor of the aviators.

After finding the accessories, you made your way over to the name station, "What do you want to name your bear?" She pursed her lips and thought about it for a second.

"Goose." She answered and your heart melted.

"All right, Goose it is." You nodded, typing it into the computer.

-

Two days after getting Goose, Rooster was walking up the pathway towards your house, a smile gracing his lips as he spotted the sign you always put up for him when he got back from missions.

He used his key and before he could even push open the door, Jamie was throwing the door open and greeting him with a big squeal, "Daddy!"

"Hi, baby!" He picked her up and spun her around, "Come on, let's go inside." He carried both Jamie and his bag inside. Jamie talked his ear off the entire time as he carried her inside and towards the dining table.

You popped out of the kitchen, where you were making a mid-day snack for you and Jamie before your husband came through the doors, and locked eyes with Rooster, smiling as he listened to everything Jamie told him, not taking his eyes off her for a minute.

"Hey, Jam?" You grabbed her attention, "Want to go show daddy your new friend?" Jamie nodded eagerly, hopped off her dad's lap, and ran to her room.

He pushed his chair out, letting you take residence on one of his legs. You wrapped your arms around his neck and he wrapped his around your waist.

"How was it?" You asked, playing with the hairs on the nape of his neck.

He hummed, "Not too bad. Went quicker than we thought it would."

"Hmm, explains why you're home earlier."

"It's only a couple hours."

"Still." You shrugged. Right before you could say anything else, Jamie came running back in, holding Goose in her arms. You pushed yourself off his lap and let Jamie take your place. She showed her dad the bear, who also let out a laugh when he saw the sunglasses.

"Look at this." He looked at the bear, taking it all in.

"We went to Build-A-Bear and got a bear. Squeeze him." You instructed, and Rooster followed your instructions.

He smiled when he heard the recording, "That's me."

"So now, we'll always have a part of you while you're not here, saving the world." You smiled.

"He has sunglasses, just like you do." Jamie showed him.

"I can see that."

"Tell daddy what his name is." Rooster looked from you to Jamie.

"Goose." You saw Rooster's eyes soften and he smiled, almost tearfully, pulling Jamie into a hug.

"And what did you tell your class you want to be when you grew up?"

"I want to be like you, daddy."

"You want to be like me?"

"I want to fly in the sky." She told him. You thought, judging by the look on his face, he would burst straight into tears.

He gathered himself, "3 generations of Bradshaw pilots? The Navy won't know what hit 'em." He held out his fist, and Jamie gave him one of those exploding fistbumps.

-

tagging some friends: @2manytabsopen @jostystyles @typical-simplelove @kolsmikaelson @jostyriggslover96 @comphyjost @boqvistsbabe @rosesvioletshardy

add yourself to my taglist!

[elizaditton]

Too Small To Be Afraid (Chapter 15)

Cover / Master Post / Previous Chapter / Next Chapter

- - - - - - - - - -

I move my character through the virtual landscape of Flower Forest, interacting with the townsfolk and continuing toward my goal of beautifying the town. This is of course on top of my other goals, like paying off my mortgage to the village's local snooty businessman Mr. Buck, and running my own little flower shop. I'm glad I have free time this weekend to play on my FlexPad, but shouldn't I be doing something a little more productive?

As I lay on my bed, immersed in the wonders of virtual gardening, an open box in the corner of my room catches my eye. It's the only box I haven't completely sorted through from the move, since it's full of things I don't exactly have a place for yet. I heave a sigh. I should at least try to get settled in before the end of Carmen.

I stand up with a stretch, setting down my FlexPad and walking towards the box. I peer inside to see a mess of contents ranging from junk drawer material to family keepsakes. I pull out a long, heavy metal object and examine it. It's a silver bowling trophy I won some time in stage 3. I got second place in an all-girls competition with a score of 116. Not that impressive, but a fun memory. Plus it's probably the only trophy I've ever won. I look around the room for a place to put it and decide the shelf beside my bed will do. I place the silver bowling pin beside a picture of Dad and me.

Returning to the box, I reach in and pull out a small, smooth object. It's a rock with a silly face drawn on in marker. 'Rocky' was his name, I believe. When I was little and wanted a pet, Dad made this thing for me to take care of since pets aren't allowed in the undercity. I was supposed to 'feed' it every day, 'play' with it, and do all the things you're supposed to do to care for an animal. Shockingly, playing with a rock turned out to be a bore, so I stopped taking care of Rocky. I have no use for this thing, but since Dad made it, I can't bring myself to throw it away. Especially not with that goofy expression it's making. Into my desk drawer it goes, I guess.

I continue going through the box like this, pulling out knick-knacks and heirlooms alike, finding places in my room for some things, and throwing out others until I've nearly reached the bottom of the box. One of the few items remaining is a cream-colored journal with blue morning glories adorning its glossy cover. It's bursting at the seams with papers and paper clippings, and is held together by a burgundy ribbon. I sigh. I remember when Dad first showed me this thing.

It was a few days before the move, and we were trying to get rid of as many things as possible so we wouldn't have to move so much. That proved a bit difficult, however, seeing as my dad had lived in that apartment in Maedri since before I was even born. Needless to say, he had a lot of stuff. The day came when we managed to clear out most of his unwanted and unneeded things, and all that remained was an unassuming box in the back of his closet with no label. It was a decent-sized box, but not too heavy. It wasn't closed all the way, and the top was covered in dust. I had asked about the box in the past, but Dad seemed to want to avoid it for whatever reason. That day, I would find out why.

Dad set the box down on the floor and sat down beside me with a sigh. He eyed the box for a moment before flipping open the cover and sending dust everywhere, which resulted in the two of us suffering through a coughing fit. Once we recovered, Dad reached into the box and pulled out a long, blue article of clothing, explaining that it was my mom's favorite cardigan. To my surprise, I still have a few vague memories of her wearing it.

Dad pulled out a few other things, all belonging to my mom. There was a scarf, some old art supplies, a poetry book, an indoor planter I decided I would keep, a few novels, and a flute to name a few. But what really caught my attention was a journal with flowers on it. I've always loved nature, and I know my mom did too, so I wondered what was inside. Upon retrieving the journal from the box, Dad looked it over for a moment. He had a smile on his face, but I could see him getting misty-eyed.

"What's that?" I asked, pointing to the book.

"This was your mom's art journal," Dad said. "This book contains nearly every drawing she made since before we were even together."

Dad flipped through the journal. Mom had doodled little flowers on napkins, and drawn elaborate portraits on scrap paper.

Dad handed me the journal. "I think your Mom would want you to have this," he said.

I took the book and turned the pages in awe. One page in particular was a watercolor piece, depicting a girl I could only assume was my mom with some enormous bluebells dangling above her. She looked up at them with wonder filling her eyes. I looked at the painting with the same wonder. How did she learn to draw flowers with such detail?

I turned a few more pages and was shocked at what I saw next. My mother painted herself, again in watercolor, dancing in the palm of a perthean's hand! One masculine hand held the twirling figure, while another held her hand from above, as if they were dancing together. I slammed the book shut.

I haven't opened the journal since then, although now I'm a bit curious as to what else is inside. I guess I'll leave it on my desk.

That leaves the planter. It's still a bit dusty, but it's nothing a damp cloth can't fix. I gaze at the planter's plug, its cord yellowed and worn with age. Could this thing really still work? I guess there's only one way to find out. I set the planter on my desk, and after a moment's hesitation, fit the plug into an outlet on the wall. There's a spark, which causes me to flinch back and let out a yelp, but to my surprise the light on the planter somehow manages to flicker to life when I press the power button.

I turn my eyes to a shopping tote beside my desk. My hand feels around the inside of the canvas bag until it finds and pulls out a small white envelope with a picture of my mom's favorite flower on it. I give the packet a gentle shake and listen as tiny pansy seeds rattle around inside. Sounds like there's more than enough to fill the planter. I feel around the inside of the tote again, absentmindedly nudging a receipt out of the way, and find a sturdy bag at the bottom. I lift the bag, which is rather heavy for its size, out of the tote and set it down on my desk with a small thud. I've never worked with soil before, and the only gardening I've ever done has been virtual. Since the planter is old, it doesn't have instructions with it anymore, but I'm sure I can figure out what to do. How hard can it be to fill pods with dirt, bury seeds, water them, and turn a light on? And after all, my mom definitely had a green thumb, so hopefully I inherited some gardening skills from her.

Upon tearing open the bag, the earthy scent of potting soil invades my nostrils. It has a note of sweetness to it, which I find strange. I'm reminded of the smell of moist dirt when it rains above ground. I carefully tip the bag over one of the empty pods on the planter until a steady stream of soil spills out. I must have tipped the bag a bit too far, though, since nearly half the contents spill out all over the planter, the desk, and my lap. I let out a sigh. I guess I'll have to vacuum. I try to collect the soil from my lap in my hands, but most of it manages to slip between my legs and onto the floor. Looking down at my last pair of good jeans, they're covered in dirt stains. I should probably wash them, along with the rest of the clothes I've been procrastinating on washing.

I look back at the dusty planter, covered in dirt. This definitely isn't going like I hoped. I wonder what my mom would say about my failed attempt at gardening. Maybe I should leave the gardening to Flower Forest.

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

I sit hunched over on the bench in the apartment's communal laundry room, my head down and my eyes fixed on my FlexPad. Flower Forest makes gardening seem so easy. How did I manage to mess things up so badly on my own?

The sound of another washing machine starting up catches my attention, and I look up to see a boy around my age nervously scanning the room for a free place to sit among everyone else doing their laundry this weekend. His green eyes and short black hair are familiar to me. I could almost swear I've seen him somewhere before. He pushes up his glasses as his gaze lands on me. His eyes widen, and he quickly looks away. I avert my gaze as my cheeks redden. I didn't mean to stare!

The boy finds a seat on the bench a few yards away from me when someone else leaves with their laundry basket. I try to focus on my game, but my mind keeps coming back to this boy. Really, where have I seen him before? Could I know him from school? Or have I just seen him around the apartment complex?

A pleasant melody ringing out alerts me that the dryer I'm using has completed its cycle. I set my FlexPad down beside me on the bench and stand with my basket to gather and fold my laundry.

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

"Back so soon?" Dad asks when I close the door to our apartment behind me, not looking away from his laptop.

"I guess I got in early enough that there was a free washer," I say, adjusting my grip on the basket under my arm so it doesn't slip. "Are you... working? On a Restday?"

"Yeah," Dad sighs, "I told a client I'd have this ad ready by Firsday, and it's still not done."

"Yikes. Well, don't overwork yourself," I say, turning to my room.

Bing-bong!

"Could you get that?" Dad asks.

Anxiety swells in my gut as I set my laundry basket down and turn back to the door. We aren't expecting anyone, and we didn't order anything that I know of, so I'm a little nervous as I peer through the peephole in the door to see who's standing outside of the apartment. To my surprise, it's the boy I saw in the laundry room! Blood rushes to my face. What's he doing here? I take a deep breath and hold it in before opening the door.

"H-hello?" I ask.

"Hi," the boy answers, his voice deeper and sharper in tone than I expected. He looks around the outside of the apartment, avoiding eye contact with me. "Is... this yours?" he asks begrudgingly as he holds out a FlexPad covered in familiar stickers of Catmium from Stranded and Mr. Buck from Flower Forest.

I stand there speechless, taking the FlexPad in my hands. "Yes! How did you—"

"You left it in the laundry room," the boy says before I can finish my sentence. "Just be more careful next time, alright?"

With that, the boy turns and speeds down the hall.

"Wait!" I call out. "Don't we know each other from somewhere? Maybe school?"

The boy flinches, stopping in his tracks. He turns his head back toward me only slightly. "I don't know," he says, his voice softer now, and nearly cracking. He clears his throat. "I don't know, maybe."

"Well, thanks for bringing my FlexPad back, um...?" I trail off, expecting the boy to give me his name.

He looks down and sighs. "Sam," he finally says, his tone a little softer than before.

"Thanks, Sam," I say. "I didn't even notice it had gone missing—"

My thoughts are interrupted by the sound of Sam bolting down the hall away from me.

"Hey!" I call out again. "Where are you going?!"

As Sam disappears around the corner, I contemplate the bizarre encounter that just took place. Just who is this guy? And what's his problem?

"Was that a friend from school?" Dad asks as I reenter the apartment.

"Honestly?" I chuckle in disbelief. "I have no idea."

[kitashousewife]

night swims

an: part of my summer holiday event! okay i decided to do more summer themed things, it is really warming up by me and feels like summer! this is my first time writing for gojo so be nice lmao

pairing: gojo x fem!reader

warnings: friends to lovers, swimming, gojo is older than you (reader is in 20's), pet names, lowercase intentional, that's it!

the sun was barely beginning it's descent behind the trees. the last reminders of the sun’s rays were felt through just how hot everything was. the rocks under your feet, the thickness of the air around you, the warmth of the concrete. everything seemed hot to the touch.

today was a lot. even though it was break time at jujutsu high, there were still a lot of reports that needed to be done. while the students enjoyed their break outside, you, along with the other teachers, were finishing up the last bit of work before you too could enjoy yourselves.

finishing your last task, you added the paper to the stack and made your way over to yaga's office to set them on his desk. not my problem now. a newfound freedom came over you as you walked towards your room. creating plans for the break in your head, you made your way inside of your room.

changing was the first step in your plan. one of the downsides of the uniforms is the dark fabric. while sleek and powerful looking, they do cause a bit of an issue in the warmer months. finally more comfortable, you settle in to relax and unwind for the evening. one of the perks of finishing up all of the reports was that yaga provided dinner for everyone, so at least you didn't have to worry about that. wait.

dinner. that's right.

a loud and drawn out groan left you as you remembered the events that transpired over dinner. you, gojo, nanami, and shoko (for once, you guys had been trying to get her to join you all for dinner for months) were all eating together, chatting about plans over break. as you deep in conversation with shoko, discussing different day trips that the two of you could enjoy, gojo clapped his hands twice (as loud as possible), causing the two of you to turn in his direction.

"so, night swimming anyone?" gojo exclaims, head tilted in questioning.

"no, thank you. i don't need to get into more than enough trouble, let alone at the very beginning of my break. i am going to pass," nanami begins to clear his dishes, straightening his tie as he stands up.

"what!" fake shock crosses gojo's face. "fine then. what about you ladies?"

looking at each other, shoko gives you an apologetic smile. sighing, she turns to gojo. “tonight?” he nods. shoko shakes her head with a laugh. "no, not that again. i still haven't recovered from last time. but, i'm sure you would love to go, right?" placing her arm on your shoulder as she stands up, your eyes widen a little bit.

gojo notices.

"then it's decided! i'll come get ya when i'm ready," gojo pats your head softly, clearing his plate and yours. feeling a little nervous, even a little bothered as you clearly didn't agree to anything, considering you didn't speak, you slowly get up and head back to your office.

snapping out of your little flashback, you groan again. trying to convince yourself to change into a bathing suit, you become lost in your thoughts once more.

you and gojo are friends. you have been for years. during those years, you two have fallen victim to everyone's commentary on your so called "relationship". you don't get it. you guys are close! of course you guys spend a lot of time together, sit next to each other, mess around with each other, buy each other things. lately though, you’ve felt kind of different about him. you’ve began to notice things about him. his soft hair, his contagious laugh, his-

"are ya ready or what? we need to go before it's too dark," gojo taps on your door too many times, fake annoyance in his voice. you open the door quickly. met with gojo's shirtless figure you immediately turn to hide the red in your cheeks.

gojo notices that, too.

"just a second, i need to grab-"

"no time! everything is perfect right now. we have to go so we don't miss anything!" interrupting you, gojo grabs you by the hand and pulls you out the door.

"satoru, i don't have shoes on. i didn't get a chance to grab my phone or a towel either," you huff, still being pulled out of the building.

"you don't need any! plus," gojo finally slows down, allowing you to walk side by side down a path you don't quite recognize. "i brought a towel, so we can just share that one."

although you hate to admit it, gojo is right. everything is perfect right now, even though it is a little warm. the sun has barely gone down, the remainder of it's light still showing through the tops of the trees. as you walk further along the path, you decided that the large shirt you had on to cover your bathing suit was not going to cut it later.

"aren't you so glad to be on a break? i love all of the students of course, but yaga has been up my ass lately and i am just so sick and tired of it," gojo asks, running a hand through is hair, holding his glasses in his free hand. grabbing the glasses and putting them on yourself, you turn to him.

"i'm sure he has a reason for being up your ass, it isn't like you don't give him more than enough as is," you retort, scrunching your eyebrows as gojo takes his glasses back.

"wow, you're hilarious!" his quip weighed down with sarcasm. the two of you turn down a different path, this one not as easy on your feet. "i'll carry you the rest of the way, if you would like," gojo suggests, patting his back.

"a piggy-back ride? satoru, what am i, a toddler?"

"you sure act like one, just get on," ignoring the very kind middle finger you gave him, gojo bends down slightly to give you a better chance.

"no, i'm really okay. we're almost there, right?"

shaking his head, he chuckles at you as you keep walking together. "yeah, almost there. so," gojo tilts his head at you once more, repeating his actions earlier.

"yeah, i guess i am pretty excited for break. i think that shoko and i might go hang out with utahime for the day next week," turning to face gojo, you nearly miss the stump peeking out of the path. stepping around it, your fingertips slightly brush against gojo's knuckles. he lets out a small laugh, and you feel your face turn red. thankfully, you notice a small lake just in time.

"we made it," gojo steps aside, letting you onto the dock first. "ready to get in?" gojo takes off his glasses and shoes and extends his hand out to you. smiling to himself, he notices you aren't paying attention. well, not to his words.

you’re blatantly staring at his very fit physique, and you become a bit flustered. has he always looked this way? gojo's chuckle causes you to look up immediately, unable to hide your pink cheeks and wide eyes.

"u-um, yeah, let me just get ready, how about i join you in a minute?" fiddling with the hem of your shirt. gojo laughs.

"sure, pretty. whatever you say," gojo slides off of the dock and into the water. pretty? sure, gojo had called you pretty. numerous times actually. but this felt different. slipping off your shirt and setting it next to his, you pad over to the edge where gojo comes back up to the surface.

gojo is actually grateful that you decided to go in after him. he hoped that the shock from the water might snap him out of whatever feeling is running through his body. the entire walk felt different. your playful banter didn't feel as playful as it normally does. gojo had been staring at you as well, thankfully his glances were hidden by his glasses. maybe it was the summer air, but you were so alluring tonight. coming up out of the water, gojo tries sighs. pushing back now soaked hair, he collects himself.

"ready to join me?" gojo holds out his hand for the second time, extending it to you in hopes that you will finally take it.

"is it cold? i don't want to-" gojo pulls your hand towards him, and you let go. "gojo, don't even think about it!" he only laughs in response.

"i was just kidding! no need to use my last name. come on, i'll help you in," moving closer to the dock, he smiles up at you. he hopes that despite the stillness of the water, you don't hear how hard his heart is pounding right now. you inch closer to the edge, nodding your head. you stick out your hand for some help, which gojo accepts, just not in the way that you want.

your shriek is interrupted when you open your eyes and realize that you are only partially in the water, being held up by something. amidst your surprise, you instinctively wrapped your arms around gojo’s neck, and your legs around his torso. you release your arms, pulling yourself back a bit. you stare at gojo’s chest, the muscles dusted pink from the temperature of the water. the arms holding your back let go momentarily, causing you to gasp and look up, eye to eye with gojo.

this isn’t a spot you find yourself in too often. he’s incredibly tall for one, and you guys never get this close. you’re just friends. you have always wondered how they would look up close. you’re mesmerized.

laughing at your surprised state, gojo laughs. “i’m not that mean, who do you think i am?”

“an asshole who pulled me into the lake, after i specifically asked him not to,” you sulked.

gojo misses your attention on him. pulling his hand out of the water, he places his cold, wet pointer finger underneath your chin, tilting your face up to look at him.

“oh yeah? am i now,” gojo’s usually louder voice reduced to almost a whisper. his gaze flicks from your lips, to your eyes, and back again.

“yeah,” you whisper back, staring at his lips as well. with your palms on his chest, you feel his heart beat. you know yours is just as fast.

“i don’t believe you,” gojo leans a little closer, breath brushing over your lips.

“toru,” you whisper back, heart feeling like it’s in your throat.

gojo is feeling something extremely foreign. watching your eyes flicker, having your hands on him, feeling your breathing quicken. he feels nervous.

“c-can, can i kiss you, please?” stuttering, he looks you in the eye.

you feel dizzy. the strongest man in the world, fumbling over his words, talking to you.

“please,” you breath out, closing your eyes.

your lips meet, and your stomach flutters. you’ve never felt something so soft. you feel like melting, surrounding yourself in gojo’s embrace.

pulling away, you look in his eyes once more. gojo smiles wide, causing you to mirror his expression.

he lets out a breathy laugh. “well,” he spins you in the water once, and you tilt your head and laugh.

“it’s getting dark. did you want to head back?”

smiling, you lay your head down on his shoulder. “let’s just stay like this for a few minutes,”

gojo has never felt happier. he makes a mental note to thank shoko next time he sees her. “yeah, we can do that.” kissing your forehead, he smiles to himself. he has never felt this excited about a summer break.

[apoptoses]

Vamptember Day 1: Leather Armand/Lestat 1.8k / Mature

Because better late than never, right? And because @birdblacksocialclub's gorgeous art of Armand and Lestat ate my brain and I had to write a little piece with it. I just couldn't contain myself. Go look at it, you're missing out if you haven't.

The walls of the club reverberate with the sound of the band currently on stage. The mortals in the room hear nothing else, but in Armand’s ears the bass mixes with the sound of a hundred pounding hearts, the rush of alcohol soaked blood in living veins. Their ecstatic thoughts drift across the room as Armand pushes his way through the crowd. The sweat of strangers smears on his jacket, clings to his dead skin.

It’s a dingy place. A basement on the edge of the East Village, and it’s packed from wall to wall. Above the heads of the strangers he can see the far off glow of the exit sign. He follows it like a beacon, his shoes sticking to the floor with every step.

He’d expected to hate this, the sensory overwhelm of it. Colors burst at the edge of his vision with every second he’s in the space, the synesthesia he’s struggled with since he was a child, but they only add to the experience. As Armand shoulders past a large man, the pins on the lapel of his jacket digging into his immortal flesh, he feels so alive.

The bouncer at the door asks for his pass. He flashes the sticker on his thigh with its hastily scribbled band name and he’s waved into hallway narrow as any of the filthy corridors of Les Innocents. Armand senses the energy behind the door at the very end. He doesn’t need to check the band name on the door to know he’s in the right place.

There’s a soft click as he closes the door behind him and shuts out the pound of the music. He leans against it, its painted surface cool beneath his blood flushed skin.

“And here I thought you’d never come,” Lestat says.

He’s sprawled on the ragged sofa, blood sweat still damp at his temples, dripping from the widow’s peak that crowns his forehead. The barbells in his nipples glint in the dim light. They’ll only last the night. His immortal body will force them out come morning but for now they beckon beneath his mesh shirt. Armand’s mouth burns with the urge to bite them from his flesh.

“I considered going home. You hardly need more praise, the women at the front of the crowd saw to that well enough with their screaming and groping,” Armand murmurs.

They’d been all over Lestat, running their hands up his leather clad thighs, grasping at his groin. But that’s typical. Mortals are drawn to him like moths to a flame and Lestat burns all the brighter for their attention. He’d taken once of them by the wrist, placed her palm right over the bulge between his thighs. The grin he’d given when she’d flushed had been insufferable.

“What’s that? Armand, jealous of a few little mortals getting to touch their newest idol? I never thought I’d see the night,” Lestat says. “Tell me, are you going to stalk out of here and kill one of them after? Swallow down their blood and steal their memory of getting to feel me up? That would be petty, even for you.”

“Mm, and you’d enjoy far too much if I did.”

Armand tosses his hair back over his shoulder. He crosses his arms across his chest and watches the gold at the edge of his vision blur with Lestat’s hair. He looks like a colossus from some old Greek tale. A great statue minted from precious metal and set up to be smited by a jealous god.

Lestat fidgets with one of his rings, twisting it around and around on his finger. The cross that dangles from his ear catches in his hair when he looks down at the floor, and then glances right back up at Armand’s face.

“But you did enjoy it, didn’t you? The music isn’t quite the same as my old band but then the times have changed so much,” he says. “And it’s different going from an amphitheater to a dirty little basement but then-“

He shrugs. He casts his eyes around for his nail file, a bottle to toy with. Anything to feign nonchalance. Armand knows his ticks all too well. Lestat is a mess of tells if only one watches him long enough.

And Armand has been watching him for three hundred years now.

He pushes off the door and crosses the room. The couch has room for four but he drops onto the cushion at Lestat’s side.

“It’s more exciting this way, I’d think. More intimate,” Armand murmurs.

This close he can smell the tang of the blood sweat, Lestat’s cologne. Even Lestat’s pants, heady and animalistic. Armand has always had a fondness for leather, the way the body warms it and causes it to give off the scent of its previous wearer; the animal from which it came. How it stretches and molds to the form of its owner.

Lestat must have bought the pair a size too small, because they cling to his powerful thighs. They’re so tight around his waist the button refuses to hold. It’s close to falling off, in fact, hanging by a scrap against the trail of golden hair that leads down from Lestat’s navel. It leaves him looking debauched. If he shifts the wrong way (the right way? Armand can’t decide) the chrome teeth of his zipper will come undone and expose him for all the world to see.

“Yes! Exactly, it’s intimate being in a crowded little room, a different sort of thrill. Less like the belly of the beast and more like being a priest, standing at the front of my very own church to lead the worship,” Lestat says.

Armand reaches across to untangle the cross from his hair. He hears Lestat’s ancient blood rush in response, his heart beat in time with the racing drums of the band in the next room. Armand allows his fingertips to graze his cheek and watches as Lestat’s tongue slips out to lick at his lips; leave them glossy and wet.

“And would you have them all on their knees for you?” Armand asks, voice low.

Lestat turns his head, goes to catch his fingertips in his mouth, but Armand is too quick. He  pulls his hand away just before he can make contact and takes pleasure in Lestat’s frown, the way his nose wrinkles. He looks as petulant as a child when he’s teased. Every inch the demanding, spoiled rockstar.

“If you merely wish for some groupie to tend to you then I’m afraid you’ll have to go out in the crowd and find one of those desperate, grasping fans of yours,” Armand continues, only to provoke him. He runs his hand back and forth over his thigh, savoring the heat of his skin as it seeps through the leather and warms his palm. “You know I don’t play those sorts of games with you.”

Armand feels his way over Lestat’s iliac crest and toys with the button on his pants. Lestat’s stomach goes concave when his nails graze his skin. His heart throbs so loudly the gold at the edges of Armand’s vision pulses with it.

“Yes, we both know you prefer to torment me and deny me,” Lestat mutters as he drapes his arm around Armand’s shoulders. “You’re never satisfied unless you’re playing the devil for me.”

Armand’s mouth curls at the corners. “And you may play the priest on stage but you prefer to be the one giving worship. But Lestat?”

Lestat’s arm is heavy on his shoulders, he doesn’t press but it’s impossible not to be drawn to him. To lean up, head tilted back, faces so close their mouths are nearly touching. Armand can feel the warm puff of his breath on his face whenever Lestat exhales. He can practically taste the blood sweat on his upper lip from here.

His fingertips feel their way along the jagged metal teeth of his zipper, over the prominent thing between his legs. Armand squeezes him through his leather pants and delights at Lestat’s sharp inhale at the brazenness of it. For all his bravado he’s scandalized so easily. It never takes more than a well placed touch and a dirty word to get him on the back-foot, to have him transfixed like this.

“What?” Lestat prompts. “Are you going to finish whatever it is you were intending to say, or are you going to wait for me to lose my patience and throw you back onto this sofa?”

Armand huffs out a laugh. “If you do I’ll leave. I was only going to say-”

He inches closer, allows his lips to brush Lestat’s with every word and send sparks radiating out across his face. Armand’s grip on his thigh is tight enough his nails are liable to cut into the leather pants and leave half-moon shaped holes in their wake, and what a delicious thought that is, marking him in so public a way. When they come out of this dressing room everyone will know exactly what he’s done and with who.

Armand nicks his tongue with his fang. Blood pools in his mouth, he holds it there until he can take no more and then goes in for the kiss.

He’s tidy when he feeds. Both of them are, they never spill a drop. But as Lestat licks into his mouth Armand feels the blood trickle down his lips. He tilts his head, sucks at Lestat’s tongue, and lets it smear across his chin. From the corner of his eye he can see Lestat’s hand raised, caught between the urge to reach out for him and to be good and maintain their game, to not touch without permission, and Armand can hardly help himself. He groans against his lips.

Lestat chases his mouth when he pulls back. His pupils are blown wide as a predator’s. His posture is that of captured prey, fingers still clenching at the empty air. Armand darts in and licks his own blood from his chin.

Outside this room Lestat has a hundred new adoring fans. He has mortal women who would die to worship at his feet, to have him bestow his touch upon them for only a moment. But in this dressing room he only has eyes for Armand’s bloody teeth.

Armand looks him in the eye, voice low as a whisper.

“-if anyone is going to be on their knees for you, it’s going to be me.”

[casieyfran]

She Died from a Broken Heart

One shot

Fandom: Star wars

Pairing: Padme Amidala/Darth vader

He's here

The second he had set his foot on this planet, she knew he is near.

He have come to her

And she was waiting for him.

The chase has come to an end.

Padme didn't cast a glance at the man closing the distance behind her. His step heavy, crushing small rocks in his way, his loud eerie breathing, announcing his presence and she still didn't look back. He was in no rush - he knew there's is no where to run - that she wouldn't run - not anymore. So he take his time, she can feel his gaze at her, burning at the back of her head, assessing every detail, like a predator observing his prey.

The red cloak draped on her entire body down to her feet, hood hiding her face and her long curls, which makes her easy to be spotted despite the angry orange light coming from the lava below and the black sand beneath her feet. Yet it didn't give anything else to see to satisfy the man approaching her.

She continue to stare at the sky, the stars winking at her. Her thoughts drifted to a certain man. It wasn't that long since they left her in this planet. But long enough to avoid any encounter from her husband. This is their moment, nothing will ruin it.

She wonder if they're looking at the small planet among billion of stars in the galaxy. She wonder if among the bright dots on the sky, their ship is one of it. If she was directly staring at it. Where her little angels at.

She closed her eyes, silently uttering a wish

Please, Keep your promise

Her heart clench for her old friend, for pushing responsibilities in his shoulder that will weighted him greatly. Ashamed that she couldn't carry it on her own. She have an important thing to do. And she will finished it today. It has been already been long overdue

Its time to end this

She can't keep running forever

"Padme"

A shudder run through her spine. She remember the day when her name will leave his mouth, each syllbles is like a sigh passing through his lips, soft and tender, her name will sound so sweet,  as if it is chanted in a prayer. She love hearing her name, especially when it comes from him, to his voice that she love so much. that seems like a distant memory. Now, his voice is lace with no emotion, booming in the distance, menacing and demanding

Look at me

And so she did

She open her eyes and turn to finally casted the man she has been running from for so long. She almost open her mouth to call him.

Anakin

She remember telling obi wan that anakin is still alive

She's not so sure anymore

Because the man infront of her is far from what she imagined, far from what she sees in holonet. But she knew more than everyone else --- the man hiding behind the mask.

He stop not too far from her, as if sensing the line drawn between them.

Has it already been that long? When she used to run to his arms and he would open his as if it was already in his nature to enveloped her in his embrace.

If she run to him would he hug her? Hide her from any danger, from her worries that is clouding her thoughts? bury her in a comfort of his arms?

She almost smile at that thought

It was too tempting

Just to forget everything.

To pretend that everything will be fine. That the man in front of her hadn't kill countless of people mercilessly but a husband she haven't seen for one year. She misses him so much - her heart aches everyday. She wanted to run in his arms and pretend his hand is not tainted with blood of innocent lives.

A lives he had taken

Because of her

"Have you finally come to realize that running is futile?" She flinch at the harshness of his voice yet she didn't let it show how much his indifference affected her.

"I come to take what i want" her voice void of emotion, the tip of her lips lifted slightly, a small smile forming in her lips as she uttered this words an Acceptance

"Obi wan was here with you." His head tilted up looking at the stars she was staring at  "Is the child with him?" She sees how his fist clenches at the thought of it. To him obi wan is nothing but a liar and a thief, taking something that belongs to him.

"Do you wish to protect them?" She asked, watching as his focus switched back to her

"Everything i did, is to protect this family" he says with no hesitation. She wonder if he has been reciting this words, drilling it to his head to convince himself that he done it for them. That he have done nothing wrong

It made her sick

Im doing this for you! To protect you!

The same words he had told her before he had turned agains't her, to the very woman he had sworn to protect

It almost laughable

That she had still yearned to be near him, to hold his hand, the hand that had choked her nearly to death.

Pathetic

Foolish

And yet, she accepted it. She wasn't blind. She knew who he is since from the very beginning - she only chooses to ignore it.

The day her vow leave her lips, she accepted him whole. When she promised to be with him, to love him, to seal her faith with him. She knew the decision she made. And she will do it again and again. He is the man she choose and she dont regret any of it.

She understand him, what he did for her.

Because of him. She had realized the length she will do to save someone she loves

"I love you, anakin" she utter this words as the smile on her lips never faded. A memory almost forgotten, reappear to stab her in the heart

I truly, deeply, love you

What hurts the most, the words still held true.

No matter what he become, what he had done

Padme still love the man infront of her

And she dont think she could ever stop

That is her greatest sin.

He didn't say anything but content himself to watch her. Somehow she sense that he knows why she's here

and he's not doing anything to stop her

Her heart clench

Padme hand crawl underneath her robe until she grasp something hard before pulling it out. She was watching him so closely that she it didn't escape her eyes the slightest move of his head as he looked down to stare at the thing in her hand

Her gaze move to her hand, as she hold it up to her face. The lightsaber heavy on her palm as she rotate it, scanning its surface

One look from it, he knew instantly who it belongs to

Anakin's Lightsaber

"Do you remember what you told me?" Her eyes never left the saber "You said, This weapon is your life"

finally she took a step to close the distance between them, slowly, every step she made, she felt every pieces of herself is falling, leaving it behind.

Then she stop midway only 5 step away from him as she looked down at the saber, her thumb brushes the switch, and then click!

A blue shine casting the light in the darkness, coming from the blade, she can feel the vibration and the heat as she move it carefully to test it. Then stop, she admire it for a second, her thoughts dwell on its true holder

How many life had it ended? Enemies and innocents?

This lightsaber, is anakin legacy. It had witness his rise, it had been with him since he was allowed to hold one. It had fought countless battles, it had save his life and protect many others. What once a symbol of justice granted to him. It is also what ended the life to those he had once consider a family. It had seen their end. And witness his fall.

It is his life

"And its mine"

You are in my very soul, tormenting me

"You said, you will do anything i ask" her tone cold, as she lifted the lightsaber pointing its tip inches away from his chest where his heart is hidden. She smiled, and a single tear fallen through her lightless eyes

"Will you die for me, my love?"

[typicalopposite]

W.I.P Wednesday

Hello Hello Hello again! And thank you to @hgejfmw-hgejhsf, @onthewaytosomewhere, @adreamareads, and @meraki-yao for the tags <3

I have been chipping away at this Psych fic for a while now and I always struggle swapping between fandoms when writing so I haven't wrote much for RWRB but I still have some written for all the WIPs I have for the fandom!

So to start I'm going to share the very beginning of the psych fic!

The color blue has never meant much to Shawn and yet lately it’s all he seems to be able to think about. Blue skies, blue water, blue(berry) cars — like the one in which he’s sitting while fantasizing about a pair of blue, blue, blue eyes.  Eyes that roll angrily the moment he walks into a room. Eyes that narrow into sharp slits when he – brilliantly, impressively, sexily if he should say so himself – swoops in and solves the cases the department can’t catch a break with. Eyes that always seem to follow him around the room like a magnet unintentionally drawn to its complete polar opposite…  Shawn looks through the windshield just in time to see that Lassie — stopped on the steps of the SBPD police station — is staring at him yet again; Shawn wonders if this recent infatuation he’s been feeling is really mutual.

rwrb below the cut! TW slight mentions of homophobia and racism

going to share another snippet from the first rule of fight club, but going to give a little more backstory to it this time. While Henry and Alex are out for dinner they encounter some very hateful men who frequent the pub they are eating at, and don't like that the owner allows 'anyone' inside. One in particular lashes out on them and Henry tries to stand up for them but only pisses the guy off who follows them out as they leave and ultimately ends up -- after the man starts spewing some slurs towards Alex that strikes a nerve and causes Henry to confront him -- punching Henry (Henry doesn't want repercussions taken on man, but after a few days is furious he wasn't able to fight back as he's never had to thus doesn't really know how to).

So he decides he wants to learn how to fight so if the situation arises again, he can handle it. BAMF protective Henry am I right? And who better for him to turn to than a certain BAMF secret service agent.

This fic is really just a deeper look at a part from Zahra Deserves A Raise where she has to go get them out of jail. So ye! It has been something on my mind for a whileee lol idk why! Anyway here's the snippet!

Henry licks his lips and takes a deep breath. “I need to ask you a major favor,” he says, wringing his hands together nervously and constantly checking around him as if this is some top secret request and people might be listening. Amy waits for him to continue, looking more uneasy by the second. “I– um– I want you to teach me how to fight.”  Amy blinks. “I’m sorry, you– you what?!”  “Teach me… how to fight.”  “Teach you how to… fight?” “Yes.”  Another few blinks, then Amy sets her jaw the way she does when she’s on the clock and in protection mode. “Is this about that dipshit that punched you? Is he bothering you again? I can -- and will -- find his address.” “No!” Henry sighs, looking down at his hands, rubbing a finger over the space his signet ring used to sit. His knuckles are just about healed, as is his brow, but the bruise is still very much there. A sickly green and yellow color now; he imagines what a sight he must be. “Well,” he says after a pause. “I suppose it is about him. He just hasn’t done anything.” “Anything else,” Amy corrects, he hears her tut and looks up to see her scowling. “God if I would have been there that asshole would have been leaving there in a body cast... or a body bag.” Henry can’t help but smile; since the incident it seems everyone has been talking about what they would do if they could get their hands on that man. Amy stares at him again, then that serious stone like — still slightly confused — face slowly breaks into a smile. “Does Alex know you’re here?” “No…” Henry admits, hanging his head. “He doesn’t know I want– he would try to talk me out of it.”

there you have it! hoping I have the Psych fic done by sunday and can get back to all my RWRB fics (without starting new ones first!)

pressure tagging @scripted-downfall and leaving it open for anyone else who wants to join in! :)

[sun-aries]

Broken Mirrors and Their Reflections Edit (chapter 29)

Once in awhile, I go back and edit scenes that I think need work - and I kinda liked this? So if you've read BMTR, here's an edit for the end of Chapter 29. I'll be editing the smut that went along with it and might post it here too.

Also, do readers like when fanfic writers go back and edit their work? Just wondering! Anyways, enjoy!

Steam trailed after him as he left the bath chambers, but it sat in the cold air like oil sat on water, adjacent and yet not able to truly interlace, as if the realm itself rejected the heat. At least the bath chamber was small enough so that it was hardly noticeable. But as he stepped out into the adjacent bedchambers, the cold slapped him harshly, and he rubbed his arms to bring some heat back to his body.

But thoughts of cold and heat mattered little when he saw her silhouette by the window, encapsulated by the violet light casted through the glass. For a second, he was taken back to the moment he met her, standing before a view of a twilight world with the light as filtered from her as the land beyond. If it weren't for her warm and comforting scent, he might've thought she was a portrait.

Her arms were wrapped around her body as well, though her hands sat elegantly on her inner elbows, and her back was nearly pin-straight. She'd set her hair free from its knots and it tumbled down her back and over her bare shoulders. Even from the distance between them, he could see the goosebumps pepper her skin. He swallowed and urged his feet forward.

At last, she'd moved - had she too been suspended in time by his presence or did time slow down as he admired her? She looked at him over her shoulder with the familiar solemnness on her face, before it cracked and a small smile slipped through. His eyes examined the familiar outline and curves of her face: the gleam in her pale eyes, the lashes that curled past her silhouette and the way light sat on her lips like gloss. Her warmth radiated to him, even without touching, and he settled a little into his spot beside her.

She turned back to look through the window. "The Twilight Realm is beautiful. I still cannot believe that I'm able to see it with my own two eyes." His eyes followed hers back to the slow-moving clouds as they drifted past their window; were it not for the glass, they could simply reach out and let them sift through their fingers.

"It is."

"I haven't been able to properly enjoy it. But now that you're here-" She paused, took a small breath that seemed to catch her off-guard, and nodded before continuing, "It's nice."

"Zelda-" he started, but she looked back at him with a curious look in her eyes, and though he felt the volume drain from his voice, the words seeped through. "I've missed you too," he whispered thinly, his lips clicking under his breath, "so much."

He wanted to reach out as he said it, to touch her and show her what he meant, as they often preferred, but he kept his hands to himself, his fingers twitching and tangling in the loose fabric of his shirt. She'd been through a lot these last few weeks: he didn't want to push her.

Her eyes creased, little lines drawn at the corners, and she smiled again. Whether her eyes caught his twitch or she’d read his mind, she reached behind her neck and gracefully gathered her hair over a shoulder, leaving her back bare. His stomach leapt. "Would you help me?"

It didn’t take him much to understand. As her husband, he’d often incidentally taken her maids’ job of undressing her, but he hadn’t minded in the least. He stepped behind her, to the expanse of her back that she'd just unveiled with a simple sweep of her hand.

Laces followed the length of her spine and casted a webbed shadow onto her skin. Undoing them was second nature, but as his hands found the first knot, just inches below her shoulder blades, he found that his hands trembled. With every inch, more of her back was exposed: every familiar scar and scratch that nearly faded with the shadows of the room.

When he’d reached her waist, the dress fell slack and gathered at her hips, and his breath caught in his throat. She looked over her shoulder, her face half-obscured, and so he leaned in closer, her pull on him like gravity. As her eyes fluttered between his eyes and his lips, he understood, and though they moved slowly, they moved together, their lips meeting above her bare shoulder. Long, bidding strokes moved against each other and with each other at the same time.

It'd been so long since they kissed that he'd almost forgotten how it made him feel. He took a starved breath, like he'd just surfaced for water after a stint below, before coming back for more. His hands burrowed in her dress, finding her bare hips beneath, and he pressed his body against hers. She made a pleased noise that sent his blood pumping, and his brows pinched as he deepened the kiss.

It was strange how powerful his feelings were for her – that they could be apart for a week or so and it would scare him to death. Or that he would travel through realms without a second thought. It was like he was made to protect her, to love her ardently, with all that he was. Without Zelda in Hyrule, it was as if the sun had vanished from the sky, the life draining slowly from all beings.

They sighed when they parted, eyes searching and asking and hoping. "Zelda…" His voice was weak, his throat dry, and he swallowed. "You've been through so much. I…" He swallowed again, unsure what he was properly in favor of.

It was clear he was flustered; Zelda knew that he wouldn't go further if she didn't reassure him that she wanted him to. "It’s okay," she assured him, voice as steady as she could manage at the moment. "I'm okay."

"You were shaking earlier."

She tensed. She really shouldn't have been surprised he'd noticed something like that, what with those sharp eyes of his, but it still took her aback. "It wasn't anything," she started, a blush darkening her pale cheeks. "It's just that...I've missed you.” She paused before admitting, “I was nervous."

He blinked, and to her surprise, his face brightened into something akin to amusement. Zelda frowned. "What is it?"

"Nothing just..." His smile stretched. "You're adorable."

"Goddesses," she twined, her blush spreading to her ears, and he laughed bashfully before his lips met hers again.

[naturepointstheway]

"So who cares if I want to hang out with the lab "weirdo"?" would it be possible for you to write this?

Sooo...ahem. Apparently my fanfic department in my brain went on an extended holiday until now (about time, muses, it's already 2023!)

Anyway, some Tuggoffelees and some mute!Mistoffelees (and anthropomorphic cats edition, like some of my previous fics), with the university setting as in a few fics I'd done with this character set-up. Going with a geology class because a) I've been studying it at uni (doing a Masters in it) and b) I can imagine Misto being drawn in by the beauty of rocks and minerals.

---

If Tugger were to be honest with himself, the only reason he took that undergraduate introductory geology class was because of that cute, mute boy who never said a word in their classes. Jemima had mentioned him before as her new flatmate and how they had become tight besties from day one when he'd moved in over the summer; Mistoffelees--that was his name--was virtually mute but still expressed marvelously. Jemima had constantly gushed about how amazing he was at dancing and how fluid he was at every move, whipping her phone out at one point to show him--and it had been love at first sight. Tugger had been floored by the short videos and had asked if he might be in some of his classes. He was surprised when Jemima had mentioned that he was taking the same advanced performing arts classes as he, for he was positive he would’ve seen him. Nevertheless, Tugger had wasted no time in adding an undergrad geology class when Jemima had mentioned him taking one, though he had little interest in the subject.

He was likely to fail it, but hey, if it meant a chance...

"You're late again, Tugger."

The lead lab demonstrator's hawkish eyes landed on him the moment he stepped through the door, backpack slung over one shoulder, half-open to the point it was a miracle nothing had fallen out on the way.

Tugger leaned his hip against the doorway, winking and grinning at the disapproving demonstrator.

"I'm never late, always right on time."

The demonstrator tutted, rolled her eyes and jabbed a finger in the direction of a table with a lone student sitting there, hunched over his notes and lab book, looking deep in concentration, a rock balanced in one hand. An unopened, unused lab work sat in front of an empty chair next to the student, along with a large box of what looked like rocks.

They all look the same to me.

He glanced at the student, and then stared as he recognised the cute new flatmate of Jemima’s from her video clips and photos.

Tugger was sure that his heart rate was now triple its normal rate. Fate had seemed to favour him today!

Mistoffelees!

Throwing another wink, mouthing "thanks!" at the demonstrator (who had now turned her back on him), Tugger strode to the table, pulling out the empty chair and flopping down in it as dramatically as he could, dropping his backpack carelessly on the floor. The constant thrum of chatter and the occasional thunk from someone dropping a rock on a table didn’t appear to bother Mistoffelees at all.

"Hey," Tugger whispered by way of greeting, as he flipped the lab book in front of him open. "You must be Mistoffelees, huh?"

Mistoffelees paused to glance up for half a second at him then back down at his notes, but nodded in response, in the middle of sketching a careful drawing of the rock in his hand.His sketches looked so carefully done and not messy at all, with arrows drawn and labeled with steady fingers. Tugger caught himself staring at Mistoffelees’ fingers, marveling at how long they were.

He cleared his throat, both to get Mistoffelees’ attention and to snap himself out of it.

"My friend--your flatmate--Jemima has told me alll about you, you know." Tugger leaned back, hands clasped behind his head, completely ignoring the line of annoyance starting to form between Mistoffelees' eyebrows. "She showed me a clip of you dancing--damn. You're fabulous--I haven't seen anyone dance like you do!"

Mistoffelees’ sketching didn’t slow down any, but Tugger could have sworn up and down he saw a tug of a smile at the corner of the other’s mouth, the line between his eyebrows fading a little.

Tugger began flipping through the pages of the lab book, not really paying attention to whatever was written or drawn on the leaves.

“She told me you’re in the same advanced dance performing arts classes as me--but you couldn’t come along? Or...” Tugger caught his eye and winked. “You’re too good for us peasants right?”

Mistoffelees shook his head, a hint of confusion in his eyes.

“I was just kidding,” Tugger assured, but Mistoffelees only looked more confused before shrugging and returning to his work. “I’ll lose but I’m down for a dance off competition with you after class if you came along to them.”

Mistoffelees’ hand jerked, scrawling an unintentional line across a new sketch of a different rock. With a short sigh, he grabbed his eraser and rubbed vigorously at the paper to remove the scrawl. Was it Tugger’s imagination or did Mistoffelees’ shoulders appear more hunched, tensed? Or that his hand had momentarily quivered above the sketch before quickly resuming it like everything was fine?

Catching one of the demonstrators walking pointedly in his direction, Tugger reached forward and pulled his box of sample rocks toward him, picking one up in his hand like he had been studying it all along. It was a dark rock, it felt heavy, and it was...a rock. A short thumbs-up to the demonstrator to show he was definitely working was met with a skeptical look and then a shrug before moving on to someone else asking for help with a question.

Tugger flicked the pages until he found the intro page (so. Much. TEXT.) and began skimming over it, until he found a section explaining deeper about the three broad categories of rocks: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. His mind was wandering too much to really concentrate properly on them, drifting back off to the videos Jemima had shown him of Mistoffelees’ dance prowess. Those fouettes, those jetes, those arabesques! They were just...something else.And that...

That...

Conjuring Turn.

That’s what Jemima had said it was.

And he believed her when she said that the video did zero justice to that level of skill and talent.

A poke just above his elbow jerked him out of the daydream, turning his head see Mistoffelees looking at him with a hint of amusement in the slight upturn of the corners of his mouth.

“Hmm?”

Mistoffelees tapped his pencil against a blank page, where he had written, fave rock? You’re looking at it like it’s the love of your life.

A nervous laugh from Tugger, though it sounded a little strained to his own ears. “Uh, nah, rocks look the same to me.”

Mistoffelees raised an eyebrow, tilting his head as though to ask, really?

“I mean, not literally,” Tugger said, rubbing his thumb over the rock in his hand. “This one is clearly a black rock with, uh...” he pursed his lips, rubbing his chin as he scrutinised what else he could see about it. “Ooh, those are interesting patterns on its surface.”

Mistoffelees smiled, eyes lighting up in such a way it made Tugger’s heart miss about six or seven beats before pounding in his chest to catch up.

Damn. Jemima could’ve warned me how cute he is!

Tugger rubbed his thumb over the shell-like curves on the rock’s surface, feeling its tiny ridges on his skin. He didn’t care for rocks, but he wasn’t going to lie, this was a beautiful specimen.

A pencil tap on his hand drew his attention again to Mistoffelees, who pointed at more things written on the sheet.

Obsidian. Igneous. Minimal crystal growth due to fast cooling of extruded lava.  Conchoidal fracturing (shell-like). Pretty, isn’t it?

Tugger grinned. “It’s pretty, but not as pretty as your eyes right now.”

Mistoffelees’ eyes grew round at his response, pencil slipping from between his fingers as he fumbled with it, looking back down from Tugger after a second or two.

Does he know how his eyes light up with happiness?

He really needed to talk to Jemima about warning him beforehand of the cuteness of her flatmates in future.

“Jemima tells me you love rocks. I never got it but...”

Then why? Were the next two words from Mistoffelees. Why are you here?

Tugger shrugged. “Just needed an extra class, I guess.”

Like he was going to tell Mistoffelees it was just because he wanted to be closer to him. Maybe one day he’ll tell him that, but certainly not right now. He didn’t want to scare Mistoffelees off before the lab was even over.

Tossing the obsidian back into the sample box, Tugger picked up another rock, one that was tan in colour and had a couple very tiny shells in it. It felt sandy against his palm and under his thumb.

“I imagine you know what this one is too?”

He watched Mistoffelees’ hand writing across the page, recalling again how graceful his hands had looked in Jemima’s videos.

Sandstone. Sedimentary. Feldspar and quartz very common in this rock. Formed over millions of years by compaction.

“Oh yeah, quartz,” Tugger recalled from whatever he had skimmed over in the lab book. “Silicon or something, right?”

SiO2.

He also randomly remembered another snatch of information from the previous class.

“Wait...isn’t sandstone the only rock that has fossils?”

Mistoffelees shook his head, before quickly writing again.

Sedimentary rocks, including sandstone. All sedimentary rocks can contain fossils.

Tugger pointed at one of the tiny shells embedded in the rock. “So this dude here is a fossil?”

A nod from Mistoffelees, who was now smiling a little, eyes lighting up again as they had before. Again, Tugger’s heart skipped a beat when they made eye contact--even if it was only for a split second before Mistoffelees quickly looked away and back down at his own work.

He’s so...adorable? Cute? Um? Jemima, we’re gonna talk.

Tugger tried to force his brain to focus on the lab at hand as Mistoffelees pointedly busied himself with answering more lab questions, but it was hard. Hard to focus when it was so sunny outside, when he kept thinking about the dance videos on Jemima’s phone, considering if he should go ahead and ask for Misto’s number after lab, and--

“Ahem.”

A handed padded its way onto the lab-book, drawing his attention up to another girl who he didn’t know, looking intently at him.

“Hey,” she said, jerking a thumb back at her table, “Why’re you hanging out with this weirdo? Wouldn’t you rather sit with us?”

Did she just...call Mistoffelees...a weirdo? What is this, high-school again?

“What’d you call Mistoffelees?”

The girl scoffed. “He’s a weirdo, he never talks, never makes eye contact with you,” 

Tugger remembered Jemima saying that Mistoffelees had autism, and that it was natural for him to avoid eye contact or want some space, and he was also pretty much mute.

“Neurodivergency exists you know,” Tugger said airily, “And who cares if I want to hang out with the lab “weirdo”? It’s not high-school anymore.”

“Really?” the girl looked disappointed. “I thought you’d like--”

“Thanks but no thanks. I’m fine here. He knows lots of cool things about rocks, and he’s my bestie’s flatmate. I don’t think she’d appreciate you calling him names either.”

“Fine, I give up then.”

With that, the girl flounced off back to her own group.

See you never.

He felt Mistoffelees staring at him, the sounds of the pencil scratching on paper having come to a complete silence. When Tugger looked over at him with a wink, the other quickly looked down at his lab book,

“Don’t worry about her--I’ve got your back. As does Jemima.”

Thanks, but you didn’t have to. I’m used to it.

“Doesn’t make it okay, y’know? You’re worth so much more--bet she can’t even tell a fouette from a pirouette. Hell, she’s probably never heard of either of those terms. Kinda sound like pastries now I think about it. French pastries, naturally.”

Now I’m hungry, Mistoffelees wrote.

“You’re welcome.” Tugger winked. “And you’re welcome to sit with me if you ever wanted to come to the advanced dance class too you know. I wouldn’t mind having you for company.”

Thanks. I’ll see.

“Just think about it. It’d be cool to see you there too. I promise not to annoy you...” Tugger added a little laugh before, “Much.”

I’d like to get back to study. Leave me be.

“Oh yeah, course.” Tugger looked back down at the huge blocks of words. To his brain it just seemed like a wall of text. He sorely wished there was a TL;DR summary or something in a box at the bottom of the page.

And, again, his brain wandered back to those dazzling videos.

The fouettes, the pirouettes, the arabesques, the grande plies...

So perfect, so flawless, so...magical. Graceful. Phenomenal. Stunning. Mystical.

I really, really hope I see him in advanced dance class soon...

If all those videos of his dance, the way his eyes shone when “talking” about rocks, and just how adorable he looked...

If this wasn’t love at first sight, well...then Tugger had no clue what that would be instead.

Look out, Jemima, I’ll be talking your ears off asking about Mistoffelees tonight. And about how you should’ve warned me on how cute he is. He is impossibly cute and talented.

He really really hoped more than ever to see him in the next advanced dance class tomorrow afternoon, just so he could see Mistoffelees’ dance moves in real life, and not “just” from videos on Jemima’s phone.

If he’s amazing in her videos, what is he like in real life? Beyond perfect, probably.

And Tugger would no doubt fall even more in love with him.

[capeline-cutemeister]

OPINIOMS ON GRANBY…..?????

Jesus Christ three of yall messaged me about Granby why does everyone want opinions on him specifically First impression: It feels so long ago but i started the first book like less than a month ago bwahhhhhhh. At first I had mixed opinions on him. I thought he was going to be like Dayes (so cringe), and my opinion of him really didn't change that much until like, he obviously started not being a dick lol lmao. I honestly really like his character arc in the first book specifically because like. Mans got the courage to be like "Fuck im sorry for being rude and uncouth but I *cannot* let things continue this way" and honestly thats a really cool and chill moment. Like i love long and drawn out sentences (i love Jane Austen i love Jane Austen) but also i really like it when a character is real blunt and just doesn't drag it out. That also especially took guts because the last time that he did something like that Laurence threatened to get him in trouble for insubordination (very smooth Laurence)

Second Impression: Thats right baby Granby gets three impressions because hes that cool. This is Granby precisely from the beginning of Throne of Jade to *right* before he gets Iskierka. Just absolutely most badass guy imo. Super reliable. Best friends with Laurence, super competent. This is Granby at his best and treated with the most respect, and I think Novik had to give him Iskierka to nerf him.

Impression now: I feel so fucking bad for Granby. My severe dislike for Iskierka is not really hidden but she has dragged my poor Glorbo through the mud. When I think of Granby now i just think of that cat that had its face in milk and looks miserable and sad. Like goddamn what did they do to you. Hes still a really strong and awesome character, and it was AWESOME seeing him storm up to Poole in LoD; but he gets so much horrible stuff just tossed on him because Iskierka is a petulant child. Genuine princess behavior, hes a tired king.

Favorite moment: Its a tie between him telling Iskierka to fuck off and listen to him for once, and him in a blistering rage and storming up to Poole. Like you cannot understand how much i love those moments. Just Granby finally putting his foot down and going "No. I will not deal with this bullshit any longer, there are going to be consequences now." Of course that doesn't really go anywhere in LoD because Laurence is also a fucking badass, but meh. The heart was there, man was about to commit civil war in the Aviator Corp just for his friend. I really appreciate that <3 But also on the other hand I REALLY like him standing up to Iskierka in Crucible of Gold because HOLY SHIT she was so insanely disrespectful to him. Like I don't *care* that she is 'his dragon', it was like borderline homophobia in my eyes and the fact that it came from someone so close to him and the entire point of his service in the corp just broke my heart. So i'm glad that he put his foot down for once and made her listen to him. Setting boundaries is really important, and I think that he set them quite well.

Idea for a story: Any of them where he gets a better dragon than Iskierka. JKJKJKKJKJKJKJK Nah but fr i think my only real story idea with Granby would be to explore all of the things that he was doing when he wasn't with Laurence. His constant Struggles with Iskierka and having to deal with being friends with someone that committed treason for a cause he believed in. Most importantly how he developed and maintained any sort of relationship with Little. I dont have anything super unique unfortunately, its hard for me to do something that would be in character without getting rid of the things that make his character, if that makes sense?

Unpopular opinion: Hmmmmmmm well I haven't been around the fandom long enough to really see what is and isn't popular opinion with the blorbo, but i think that my most controversial statement about Granby is that I don't find him that amusing. I love and adore him and i think hes great but he is very sincere in my eyes and that leaves very little in the way of him actually being funny. I think there are only a couple of moments where I think hes funny/in a funny situation. But oh well.

Favorite relationship: Finding any non platonic relationship in Temeraire is so hard for me. I want to say my favorite relationship is him and little, but also i dont care about little that much. I think hes cute! But i was given very little to work with in the books in the way of *their* relationship other than that they have fucked. And like, idk. I think my favorite relationship in general though, is probably him with Iskierka, funnily enough. I think it shows the best of both characters whenever its done right, and I think it really let Granby Be His Own Character. Like everyone in the Corp wants a dragon. Duh. But when Granby gets his, she's a nightmare! He has to go through this long and twisting road where he is afraid to take too wrong of a step because Iskierka, and because hes friends with Laurence(traitor adjacent), and because hes always wanted dragon and hes afraid to fuck it up and etc etc etc. And he kinda has to learn to stand up for himself and others in a way that he probably hasn't had to before. Its not really a path that the other Aviators get to take, they just become background characters after they get their dragon. I mean even Ferris just drops off the face of the earth when he gets his Prussian.

And Iskierka is great because despite how horrible she acts she really does care for him, im not blind to that. But her path in their relationship is that she has to learn to stop being so overbearing, so crazy, so difficult to work with. She has to understand that she is not infallible, and that the things that hurt her are not the same as the things that hurt other dragons, and that realization comes at a pretty horrible time in her life. She has to grow up, which while we see other dragons grow up in this series (like mentally i mean), i dont think that theres ever so stark a comparison as with her.

Idk if that makes sense, but I like their relationship the most out of Granby's relationships because its the most unique for both characters, imo.

[wtfcookiejar]

I Promise Always (Part 6)

Eddie was walking into the forest quietly. He had ditched Jason hours ago and it was time for him at least to follow through with what he felt was a mandatory drug deal at this time. He didn't know what Chrissy Cunningham really needed drugs for. But arrangements like these meant he could buy Uncle Wayne sandwich meat for another weak and maybe he could have a tape if he was lucky enough. Sometimes Old Eunice in the record store would let him take home something nice if he brought her better d&d stories and whatever old leather gear he could find at the thrift store.

Eddie couldn't help but finger the note in his pocket as he sat down on the Bench. He had Scratched out Chrissy's name, written YN L/N down, and drawn a little heart with spider webs. He'd also scratched out drugs and written hugs. Because he desperately wanted to hug Y/N. But Eddie knew she hated him... God, it made him want to cry but he didn't he just sat there looking at all the little folds and creases wondering how she had done it so fast.

"Excuse Me," Chrissy called hands behind her back still waiting at the tree just beyond the picnic table.

Eddie Couldn't help it he jumped ten feet in the air. " JESUS." he turned and sighed heavily. " You gave me a start their little lady."

"Why do you call me that?" Chrissy asked taking a seat as Eddie got reacquainted with the table setting his lunchbox in front of him and opening it.

" Because you are a lady. " Eddie reasoned rubbing his hands on his jeans and slipping his crumbled crane into his pocket. He looked at Chrissy had pretty red hair and grey eyes and a figure that left little for the imagination in her cheer uniform. Once upon a time, Eddie would have done anything to sit across from Chrissy. Now though he just wanted to do a deal and play some D&D.

" Well that's true but most people call me a girl still." Chrissy smashed a pearly smile that could have made almost anyone do anything.

Eddie smiled to put his stomach at ease and then his voice got smooth and sales-like," Now what does a Lady like you, possibly need my services for?"

"I have a headache.....The headache pills my mom gave me make me feel sick..." Chrissy seemed shy all of a sudden.

"Fork them over." Eddie made grabby hands as he put a cigarette in his mouth and lit it with zero effort.

Chrissy handed over a little white bottle and Eddie read the outside," Your moms giving you like estrogen on crack... This isn't for headaches. No wonder your stomach hurts. You could get hella pregnant with this shit."

"LIKE how?" Chrissy tilted her head puzzled

" Don't you and Jason like fuck in every damned closet at school?" Eddie took a long drag of his cigarette before realizing her face was a deep shade of red," Wait for a second... You two haven't done it yet!"

"CAN YOU NOT BE SO GODDAMNED LOUD!" Chrissy whisper shouted and Eddie did his best to hold back a chuckle as he threw two blunts and a couple buds in a small sandwich bag for Chrissy. He finished his cigarette smiling.

"Alright, Stop taking this shit. One Puff at a time. Deep Inhales. Do Not have sex till this shits out of your system I say about 3 weeks... When you do use condoms and please get actual birth control- from a doctor, please. I was never here. I know nothing about this and that will be twenty bucks and one secret to keep. It's a hell of a deal. " Eddie singsong waving the baggie.

"Secret included?" Chrissy asked a twenty in her hand.

"Secret included and this will clear up any kind of pain. Like I said take it slow. One puff. When you need more you know how to find me. " Eddie held out his empty hand and the baggie

Chrissy folded the twenty into a triangle her tongue sticking out the side of her mouth before she handed it over," It's going to be a pleasure doing business with you. Your everything she said you were with just a little bit of edge. I like it. " With a skip of her green and white skirt, she was gone.

Eddie almost wanted to ask who but then he thought of the folded crane in his pocket and he sat there confused.

***

"Now I cannot promise that Steve won't flirt. But I can promise you, He will be on his best behavior, usually, we watch movies and then pick up Henderson from D&D and then we sit and listen to him talk about his campaign and his quote "perfect" girlfriend." Buckley was on a roll but she had already called steve to change the plans and told Dustin they would still pick him up after D&D.

"Hanii. You need to explain what you mean by "Henderson." is he a teacher? Why do you refer to him in his honorifics? I mean is he like someone cool is he like? WHAT IS A HENDERSON?" You wailed and robin smiled at her new nickname.

Just then Steve's car rolled in and he stood tall arms a flurry of pushing up his sleeves and then opening them wide and smiling this dopey smile as he leaned against his car," Ladies as you can see the chariot awaits and there is a MALL calling our name."

You took a step closer to Hanii and whispered slightly," He reminds me slightly of a game show ho-"

" RULE NUMBER 1 in this battleship we do not whisper."

Robin smiled as you quickly set down your bags and set yourself up in a standard military procedure. Robin followed suit but the things that flowed out of your mouth would have made any man of the military proud," Senior Student ON LOAN From Leuitant Staff OF Medical And Marrine Commander L/N. Mission: Go to MALL with Oni-chan. Report home By No later than 11. Your Battleship: 1983 BMW 733i - Automated drive -antitheft warning system -3.2 liter straight six cylinder output but your tires look like absolute horseshit SIR, meaning you need air or this battleship will sink." You gave a firm salute and kicked a tire that gave a small bump as if to say you were correct.

Robin saluted like a navy man and Steve looked like he was going to burst into flames of embarrassment.

"Robin I swear to god if you paid her to say any of these weird things you get to pay for the joint movie fees for two weeks." Steve pointed at Robin and you smiled.

"Oni-chan, your car tires need air. I don't think a marine Sargent would enjoy hearing about his daughter stuck on the side of the road, By the way, you live up to "The Hair" nickname but I have yet to understand the meaning behind it. It is a nice car. You clambered into the backseat as Robin sat in the front.

"Isn't She just PERFECT!" Robin squealed in joy drumming her fingers into the dash.

Steve was handsome but you weren't going to admit that flat out from his backseat. You sat prim and proper like your best friend had taught you. Your back straight eyes forward on the road. Steve did indeed stop for air. It was kinda funny watching him figure out how to fill the tires. Your dad had timed you and you could do it to any car in three minutes flat.

"What are you thinking wise OWl of mine eyes." Robin turned back to look at you.

"I won't lie he's cute."

"But.. He's Not Eddie?" Robin reasoned and you chuckled.

"Very true Hanii"

"What does that word mean even, you've been calling me that for hours," Robin whined rolling her eyes and leaning her seat back so it nestled into your lap comfortably.

"I get a secret or two." You challenged plucking stray hairs from her eyes.

"Since when do you let other girls touch you without becoming a quivering mess?" Steve said as he sat back down in the car and looked at the two of you cozy and smiling.

"She is no ordinary girl dear Dingus. She has charmed even the most terrifying of hearts. Take Chrissy Cunningham for instance. She eats out of this sweet girl's palm." Robin was practically purring as you rubbed her temples soothingly.

You booped Robin's nose chuckling," Don't say it like that Hanii."

"Alright, you two. Enough of this touchie touchie! We are off to our destination, and you Pretty thing. What is this Oni-Chan business? And Why does Chrissy Cunningham eat out of your palm?"

"Every girl allowed a secret or two. Chrissy is simple. I'm a shiny new thing. I have a use for her I can get her what she needs and in turn she... I don't have a clue what she does for me yet. I'll find a purpose I'm sure. " You mustered as you helped Robin righten her seat and you reached over and stole steves sunglasses and rolled down the window letting the warm sun touch your skin.

***

Steve didn't wanna admit it but the girl in his backseat was growing on him. She had kicked off her flats and her tiny manicured toes were so close to his elbow that he almost wanted to reach back and touch them. But he stood his ground in the front seat remembering that she had said Sargent, and he knew that meant her father. She was bold she took sunglasses and looked out the window and talked with Robin as if she owned the world.

Robin for once was a smiling peaceful creature. She was herself around another girl who didn't seem to mind if she babbled or got lost in a horror story about what happened at summer camp, which for the beautiful girl in the back seemed like a world that needed to be explored.

"Oni-Chan, can you tell me why it is so customary for Boys and Men here to touch girls and women?" her lips were this perfect pink shade and every word sounded perfectly English but completely foreign. Who used the word customary?

Robin was stifling a giggle. "Uh... Well, that's kinda normal here you know Public displays of affection. Guys don't want other guys kissing their girls... Ya know."

"So once you kiss you are to be married?" at this Steve himself lost it and so did Robin both of them laughed a loud rough careless fun laugh.

Her face was pink, and she almost seemed ashamed. They were in the parking lot of the mall. Robin realized their mistake and reached back to look at the girl who now ducked her head in shame. Robin smacked Steve and his stomach automatically filled with guilt.

"STEVE. Meeting outside the car now." Robin hissed and they piled out.

Steve was having a hard time not reaching back into the car and telling her he was sorry already. But the words that crawled out of Robin's lips were what made him stay," Look, She's spent most of her life in Japan. Things in America are different. She doesn't even know the difference between asshole and stupid she thought they meant the same thing till this afternoon."

"We're talking about words here right?" Steve clarified as he looked in the backseat to see her checking her makeup. Something he was used to dates doing.

"Yeah. So we gotta try to understand. Things like public affection, and candy even is new to her. We can teach her right?" Robin's wearing the puppy dog eyes that Steve falls for every time.

"Robin- I thought we talked about you know wayward-"

"She's not wayward dingus. She literally figured out I was into Viki with one glance. She's like a genius but she's not a wayward puppy. She just needs Friends. So common...Please."

"So that's why you don't freak out when she's all close to you!" Steve snapped his fingers and smiled and Robin just took it as this was her winning and to be honest. She'd won the minute she'd called to say she had a new friend and they needed to cancel movie night and could they go to the mall with her instead.

He didn't expect the pretty girl who had followed. She was still waiting in the backseat of the car and they both looked at each other for a strong minute. "SHIT. THE MALL." They both shouted. Both of them excitedly scrambled to the back of the car Steve on one side and robin on the other they piled in the backseat pushing Y/N in the middle they both started blathering.

"Alright, so here's like the major points-" Steve was talking fast pointing as if he were making a map.

"We can't skip the minor points Stevo." -Rubin rushed in to make sure the hand talking doesn't get too complicated and held his hands over Y/N form.

"MAJOR FIRST, What do we want to shop for? What are we hungry for? Do we have pooled money or our own?"

"I have $75.83" Y/n seemed puzzled as she showed them her money.

"Robin status report?" Steve asked looking excited because prospects are looking high for whatever is in the mall.

"$20.00 and a large button." Robin said as she searched her pockets and added the cash to a pile on Y/n's lap.

Steve reached for his wallet. He knew there would be at least a couple of fifties and a hundred in there from whatever his dad left him for the long weekend. What his mom had given as she headed for another conference. He didn't care he threw two fifties out onto y/n lap and smiled.

" What are we shopping for ladies? What are we hungry for ladies? "

Y/n smiled shyly," I only want three things. Music, The Hobbit, and What are these things you guys wear called?" She patted Robin's jeans affectionately.

"You want Jeans?" Robin asked and Steve couldn't help but smile.

"Now Rob, before you go preaching you always tell me. Women should be able to wear whatever they want. When they want to. " Steve chided and Y/n smiled

"Is that True Hanii." and robin rolled her eyes.

"FINE! But we have to stop at Eunice's and She Needs a dictionary pronto." Robin smiled reaching forward and grabbing her purse. Y/N stuffed all her money into a little coin purse which she handed to Robin who handled the red and black fabric with care. Then as if it was effortless she handed Steve his money and smiled this big gorgeous smile that almost begged for him to kiss her. But he swallowed it and instead reached for her hand and helped her step out of the car.

"Can we go slow? I get dizzy if I go too fast." She asked in a hushed whisper soft enough Robin couldn't hear her. That soft whisper was enough for Steve's hard candy outside to melt and he was putty in her hands.

"Of course Darling. This is all at your pace." Steve said as she linked elbows with him and Robin linked elbows with her and the three of them entered the mall together.

"You start spoiling her Steve and I will shave all that hair of yours. " Robin threatened and Y/n giggled like it was something they had promised each other hundreds of times. Steve defiantly could live with this threat if he got to hear that laugh a hundred thousand more times.

***

It was 4:45 and Wayne was on his way into the hospital. He wasn't sick. He was nowhere near sick. Instead, he wanted to talk to the new Doctor. The one who had taken his wife and Daughter to Japan and broken poor Eddie's last dream to a crumble. He remembered the words the boy had spoken a month later on his birthday when Wayne sat the only one there with Eddie who looked at the one present that Wayne could afford.

"I was gonna Murry her Uncle...." He had sniffled looking at the cake Wayne had burned the candles melting. Coconut frosting. Then just like that Eddie stopped crying and looked at the swings one last time sighing and blowing out the candles.

"What did you wish for Buddy?" Wayne asked as he cut a slice and put it in front of Little Eddie.

"That she would be happy..." His little lip stuck out a little as his face turned sour at coconut frosting," Can I help with the cake next time uncle Wayne?"

Then it was just like that Little Eddie opened his present. A D&D book bigger than his head with a set of dice and his own personal leather journal. The two spent hours reading the manual in bed that night and to this day Wayne never forgot those tiny fists scarfing down the rest of the cake for the week while he looked at the playground swings and read the D&D manual like a bible.

Inside the hospital, he waited in a chair but he didn't have to wait long. The Doctor saw Wayne and smiled with fondness," I'd know the Munson Tamer if I ever saw him. " They shook hands and then the doctor ushered him into his office quietly. "Taylor keep an eye on EKG 12 for me." Inside his office were x-rays and diahramao's that made Wayne's stomach turn but he kept his eyes on the good doctor.

"Long way for a Medic to come. " Wayne Marveled at the walls and the Doctor smiled.

"Burbon?" He asked reaching down to the cabinet to pour himself a glass.

" No, No, I gotta drive home. Besides. I wanna talk about your daughter quickly if I can. I know you left because you were a commander for the Marines, they took you over to Japan... Being a top medic. I understand you had a job to do for our country... But the day you left with that little girl...Eddie's heart broke... like shattered into tiny pieces at his feet. His Birthday was shortly after you left and he told me he wanted to Marry your little girl... When it was clear she wasn't gonna come back... the last little light went out in him. I'm not mad at your daughter. But That's my boy... Do you understand Doc? I don't wanna see him hurt none more." Wayne could feel his heart racing hard in his chest but the good doctor was smiling.

"I wouldn't trust my daughter with anyone else Mr. Munson. Did you know that Eddie drove her home one night after she had been walking in the dark? She was drunk... He tried to cover it up by drinking the last of the bourbon in her bottle and giving me one of yours... I knew that night he was the right man for my daughter. He would do anything to save her... I won't lay a hand on your boy. Fear not."

Wayne sighed and settled in his chair finally feeling like he could finally breathe," So we agree."

"These kids need each other. " The doctor chuckled and then the two men settled into a familiar silence one filled with different memories. and different people and different places.

***

The mall was like a huge Candystore. There were different shops that lit up in different colors. So far her favorite had been the book store. She had passed so many titles and Steve and Robin had both watched in wonder.

"She's so efficient. " He had remarked. She had pulled all she needed from the shelves within minutes and handed them to Steve.

"She's so eclectic I love it. " Robin had whispered to him as she checked out holding her red coin purse so delicately as she counted out the change for the cashier.

The three of them had naturally fallen into a rhythm together. Y/N had a designated list. Robin only wanted Food and Eunice's little corner store and so Steve was the Navigator and an Onlooker as Y/N pointed out dainty shops. She stopped and stared at one particular that he looked at till the girls had disappeared around the corner.

"Why on earth would a girl like her be worried about a thing like that?" Steve had wondered as he jogged after the girls. Who were giggling about some random lunchroom joke? Robin raised an eyebrow in question and he shook his head still confused.

"Food or Eunice's," Steve asked jumping ahead of the girls and walking backward in a smooth fashion. Looking at both their faces he waited.

"Eunice's" The singsonged, and Steve grabbed Robin around the neck walking again in time with them. Eunice's shop was in the darker corner of the world. But still, it remained a favorite of the Buckley and Harrington household. Buckley could always find something androgynous and Harrington could always find something chic.

Eunice knew both Robin and Steve so when the two came in with their new friend she was beyond delighted. "Where did you find this beautiful little Hen from Harrington?" Eunice was a tall woman, full-chested curls placed in the full fifties curls. She was a pinup girl through and through but you could see some of the edges of age coming through. Her hands had gotten smaller and there were wrinkles.

" I found her actually" Robin stood on her tiptoes pointing toward herself. Proud of actually having found a gem worth noticing.

"I believe we found each other?" Y/N whispered bowing slightly to the older woman.

"Exquisite. May I take measurements, Miss?" Eunice had a tape measure in hand and Steve felt the slightest need to step between the two of them. Protect Y/N, but her polite hand held him back and she proudly stepped forward.

"I have a feeling... " Robin and Steve could hear Miss Eunice now but she was speaking foreignly and quickly.

"Does it weird you out that somehow she knows just how to speak to anyone who walks in here?" Steve followed Robin to the records bin.

"God NO. Eunice is as old as Time. I'd be half afraid if she didn't know how to-"

"You two are complete idiots. She is an ABSOLUTE Treasure. You couldn't have brought her sooner? " Eunice was throwing skirts and corsets and sweaters on her arms. "Harrington. There's a brand new walkman and headphones third shelf on the left-hand side. Eddie will have to wait for a new pair. I will pick the music myself. Harrington, she will need assistance with payment, I am sending her home with her own collection of cassettes and three new outfits. If I hear one peep of complaint. I will call your Father and have your next order of Playboys shipped back to his office myself!" Eunice had never sounded so cheerful or dreadful in that particular moment to Steve that he'd have done anything to stop her from opening her mouth further.

"SHE SAID SOMETHING ABOUT JEANS EUNICE!" Robin called and there was a score of giggles as Robin watched Steve take things from a high shelf on the left-hand side that almost no one else could reach.

"I would pay to hear this conversation." Steve set the headphones and brand new cassette player on the counter and looked at the collection of records Robin had picked," Beautiful picks though I will say I am not a fan of this guy right here..." Steve pointed to a Zeppline album that looked a little to far fetched for both their taste.

"DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT THAT ZEPPLIN ALBUM." Was the shout as they saw Eunice again shuffle past them this time holding onto jeans. It was only fifteen minutes later and their friend was back at the counter Eunice was throwing tapes together. It was a large pile. But for some reason Steve didn’t feel like fighting Eunice.

Instead y/n placed what was left her money on the counter and Eunice took it and another twenty from Steve.

“Both of you take good care of her. She’s a delicate flower.” Eunice called out as Robin finished up her purchase.

“Now we must eat!!!” Steve singsonged and Robbin smiled. Y/n didn’t carry a single thing in her hands because Steve carried it all. They exited the mall in a rush robin tugging at Y/n and saying she was scared of the dark while Y/n giggled and said Steve would get anything that hurt them. The truth was in that moment Steve loved both those girls. He loved how Y/n made Robin more Robin and how Y/n just seemed to blend all the pictures of the evening together. She was magic Eunice didn’t lie.

They drove the extra fifteen miles to go to McDonalds. Where Steve ordered nuggets, cheese burgers, and enough fries to satisfy their party of three and two more. One for Eddie and one for Henderson.

“French fries?” Y/n had exclaimed quietly as Steve handed her a big thing of fries and a Coke.

“Eat while hot best effect.” Robin grumbled before opening a burger and shoving it promptly into her face.

A few minutes of staring and blowing and Y/n was happily nibbling fries moaning in bliss,”I Still don’t understand what a Henderson is. The dictionary says nothing. Are they born? Are they created? Do they die?”

“What is she on about Robin, her mouths full.” Steve asked looking confused.

“HENDERSON.Is he ruler or fable?” Y/n put herself between the two of them a single fry sticking out the corner out of her mouth.

Robin snorted choking a bit on her burger,” He’s a freshman!”

“Jesus Christ. What did you tell her about Henderson that makes her believe he is a fable.” Steve was interested to say the least

“You swear on his mother often as if she is god. He has a magical girlfriend and he knows things even you can’t understand.” Y/n muttered stealing a nugget from robins lap.

“HES A VIRGIN WITH AN IQ OF OVER 160.” Steve shouted

“I’m a virgin.” Y/n reasoned as they pulled back into Hawkins,”Does this mean I am a fable too?”

Robin was laughing so hard she almost choked on a nugget she had been chewing.

“Can we not kill Robin? Steve plead hopelessly trying to pat her back as he drove,” you are mysterious that’s different.

"Lean forward hanii." Y/N sighed gently and Robin did exactly as she was told, Y/n fingers were swift as she tapped along Robins back in a strange cupping motion Steve couldn't focus on. The coughing stopped and Robin took a big drink smiling.

"Eunice might just be right about magic. " Robin clarified," but I don't know if mysterious covers all the wonder our new friend produces."

School always looked different at night. Steve and Robin were used to it but Y/N looked at it as though something was going to come out and scare her. She had the two sets of leftover fries in her lap keeping them warm between her thighs.

They waited chatting casually until Dustin came barrelling through the doors and toward the car. Eddie stood watching as others piled out of the double doors arms crossed smiling. Y/N swallowed when the backseat door opened and Dustin slid in his mouth moving a mile a minute.

"You guys will never believe what happened today. Eddie launched the most venomous campaign I have ever taken part in. I literally almost lost my character in the first 10 minutes -OH MY GOD STEVE THERES A GIRL IN THE BACKSEATTTTTT!!!!!" Dustin lept against his door like his very body was going to be put on fire.

"This is a Henderson?" Y/n asked a small wave of disappointment in her voice, "He's so...." Y/n Reached out and pulled at Dustin Cheek. "DOUGHY..."

Steve was laughing but Dustin wasn't amused.

" Get off me..." He huffed and then he snatched the fries and looked at her from the corner of his eyes," Hogging fries, doesn't even introduce herself... Anyone wanna tell me what the hell is going on here?"

"Dustin meet Y/N. She has come a long way to live in Hawkins. Eunice calls her a delicate flower. I think she's brilliant and Steve wants to kiss her silly." Robin turned around pointing to each of them as she diagnosed the issues in the car.

"ROBIN!" Steve said but both of them grew silent. Because Y/N had opened the back door. After Dustin had said," Eddie's fries."

She was quiet as she moved across the parking lot. Steve and Robin shared a look.

"Are we sure this is a good idea? I mean isn't she the one who thinks that Eddie's an ass?" Dustin was worried and for a minute steve was too but when the two shadows met. There was only silence. A bow and then Y/n was sitting behind steve once again.

"Well?" Dustin asked

" You are the worst fable I have ever encountered. " Y/n muttered and picked a Fry from Dustin's and chewed smiling.

The entire trip to Hendersons was spent with him explaining how he was indeed not a Fable but one whole human. Y/n and Robin giggled and Steve watched because for once he truly was mystified.

@linkpk88

[landinoandco]

|Shutter speed|

Chapter one : A staring contest with an attractive stranger

{Lando Norris x Reader}

Summary: A photographer. A pair of F1 drivers. Triangles. A sticky situation of morals and fighting fate. What could go wrong?

Warnings: None :)

Rating: Teen and up

Word count: 1.5k

A/n: hey guys, welcome to Shutter Speed!! A love triangle between LN DR and reader (in this story reader is called Georgie.) This is my first f1 fanfiction so any feedback/suggestions are very welcome or if you just want to add comments, reactions - anything goes!! Thank you for reading and enjoy :)

Chapter one: A staring contest with an attractive stranger ...

It was raining in London. Not that that was out of the ordinary - even in the beginning days of July. Today the weather had decided to imitate that of mid-March, the rain crashing down like the heavens had opened up above and the wind cheekily chasing tourists and commuters indoors then proceeding to race eagerly through the streets, nipping at any ankles of those who were lagging behind the rest.

Lando Norris was out with his trainer when the rain started, enjoying the freedom of a 2 week break before the highly anticipated British Grand Prix. They rushed down the alleyway they had found themselves on; until they came across a little coffee shop tucked away in the corner - 'The Little London Stop.' Jon nodded to confirm to Lando that this would be just fine - as he opened the door, a small bell rang just above his head and instantly they were hit by a comforting warmth and the smell of freshly made coffee.

He quickly slid onto one of the benches, facing out onto the shop. It was typically London, designed with someone's Instagram feed in mind, plants hung precariously from the rafters along with many singular light bulbs that casted at atmospheric glow around the room.

Opposite him, on the other side of the room sat the only other person in the shop, she sat with her back to them. Her messy mousy brown hair tumbled in waves down her back, her gaze on the rain rushing down the alleyway - her chin resting on the heel of her hand.

Georgie had been sitting in that exact spot for longer than she would care to admit. Escaping the pestering grasp of her best friend and roommate Maisie; they were both photographers - partners in an online business they set up when they first left college as they prepared to take on the world. Pre-covid it had flourished and the pair had been travelling up and down the country, from events like weddings to festivals. Post-covid however - this was where their problems had started and why Georgie was currently hiding in a coffee shop. Work had become as dry as her love life, events had been cancelled for another year and wedding guest numbers had been limited. For weeks they had been sending their portfolios to any event organiser they could find and for weeks they kept being turned away.

She tore her eyes from the flooding streets and back to her open laptop - she was completely stuck, where to even start? Georgie nibbled on the on her bottom lip and sighed before rubbing her hands over her face - she was really looking for a miracle to happen.

Lando was completely intrigued by the girl. It wasn't until Jon snapped his fingers in front of Lando's face that he realised he had been staring.

"Right, sorry." Lando mumbled, a red flush creeping up his neck and he moved his gaze to the wooden table, wringing his fingers together. "What were you saying?"

Jon chuckled at his young boy antics and shook his head, "I wasn't, you were staring and it was weird. I picked you up this green smoothie - lots of vitamins and-" But Lando had switched off again, he couldn't help himself as his eyes locked back onto where they had been before. It was like something was drawing him to her - hell, he didn't even know what she looked like.

"Are you going to go and speak to her?" Jon's voice broke his trance yet again.

"Wha-what?" Lando looked up at his trainer, his innocent eyes widening at the thought. "I-I-"

Jon scoffed and rolled his eyes, "You are such a teenager."

"I'm not a teenager." Lando hit back, "I'm 21. I can drink in the US now, you know."

"Then start acting like it." Jon scolded but the corners of his mouth quirked up, he had known Lando for years and he had not changed once. A hopeless romantic at heart but acted like a deer caught in the headlights as soon as anyone of the opposite gender even glanced his way. Any girl would be lucky to have him but unfortunately for Lando he always found himself drawn to the type that would take his heart whole and would leave, shattering it into millions of pieces for Jon to find and piece back together again. It was through no fault of the girls in question, they would make their intentions very clear but Lando - being who he was - would always jump head first without looking ahead or the consequences of his actions.

On the plus side, Lando came back stronger each time but it left him with an even stronger longing for that care and affection that everyone around him seemed to have.

His heart raced as he looked over at Jon, a determined look was set on his face. "Fine. I'll do it." He stood up, legs wobbling slightly as the adrenaline flooded through his veins - he had cleared the table when reality decided to walk through the door. He turned on his heels and sat back down. "Nope. Maybe another day." His voice wavered slightly.

Jon looked at him with sympathy and slight second hand embarrassment - not that Lando needed to know that.

Georgie looked over her shoulder at the commotion happening behind her - there were two young men sitting across the room from her. One was clearly older than the other and was looking at him in utter bemusement - she followed his gaze...

Georgie inhaled sharply, she was met by a pair of crystal blue eyes - of which lit up when he realised that she had looked over. Georgie simply didn't know what to do with herself as she seemed to be stuck in a staring contest with an incredibly attractive stranger. She managed to tear her eyes away to look at him properly; a mop of dark brown curls sat dripping onto the table (still wet from the torrential downpour), an olive complexion and an innocent sparkle in his crystal blue eyes. She offered him a shy smile, a rose tinge coating her cheeks. He gave her a lopsided grin in response.

There was an overwhelming feeling that drew Georgie to this stranger, it wasnt anything she had experienced before - not even when she had been with him.

A cold chilling suddenly rushed down her spine, almost like she had been standing in the rain falling outside. A pang of guilt filled her stomach, she dropped her gaze and bit her lip. How could she ever think of him like that, compare him to a stranger she didnt even know the name of.

A ring broke her train of thought, her phone lit up with Maisie's name. She inhaled slowly to ground her feelings before answering, trying to sound as normal as possible.

"Hey Maise -"

"I've done it." She heard Maisie shout down the phone, followed by a relieved laugh.

"Done what, sorry." Georgie prompted, rubbing her eyes. She could feel the boys' eyes on her, resisting the urge to turn around; she closed the lid of her laptop and placed it in her bag.

"I've only gone and gotten us an event to go to this weekend." Maisie replied as casually as she could muster. Georgie paused. A large grin that would challenge the Cheshire cats'.

"Where and how?" Georgie felt a weight lift from her shoulders, it didn't matter what Maisie had signed them up for, it was a start. A fresh start.

"Look, I have a call with them any minute so I'll have to explain when you get back. It's at the Goodwood festival of speed." Maisie paused.

"Goodwood Festival of speed." Georgie echoed - she could hear ringing in the background.

"Got to go, final things to sort out. I'll see you later." With that she hung up, leaving a delighted Georgie frozen in place, until she found her senses and packed up as fast as she could. All thoughts of the boy across the room - gone.

He sat, puzzled, as he watched her rush out the door and into the rain - calling out a muffled 'thank you' as the door swung shut behind her. His brows drew together as he looked into his lap, before saying quietly to Jon: "It was the Goodwood Festival of Speed she just said, didn't she?"

"Yes." Jon answered shortly, looking down at him in fascination.

"Isn't that where I am this weekend?" Lando looked up, hope swelled in his chest.

"Yes, it is."

Lando looked longingly out of the window, beaming. He knew it was silly to get so hopeful - there were going to be thousands upon thousands swarming around Goodwood. He stood up and turned to Jon - "Lets go."

"But you haven't drank your smoothie -"

Lando was already at the door, bouncing on the balls of his feet. Jon grabbed the smoothie and tittered, following after him.

You only live once, Lando thought. As it turns out he would get another chance this Saturday and this time he wasn't blowing it.

Chapter two: A new beginning