#I’m excited to answer asks and very appreciative over the sweet messages I’ve received

[ghosts-and-blue-sweaters]

If you sent me asks/have been in my notifications lately and I have not yet responded, DO NOT WORRY!!! My motivation/energy levels have been odd these past few weeks, but I’ve seen all the things, read them, and they’re so so appreciated :’D Thank you all so much for being so stunningly kind, y’all are awesome.

I’ll respond to everything as quick as I can :D

[whiteqnn]

Pairing: Corpse Husband x Fem! Reader

Summary: Sean invites one of his good friends - Y/N - to play with him and the group. She has a lot of fun with them, but at the same time is too oblivious, too nice, and too pure to notice that one particular Among Us player has taken a liking to her the moment he heard her voice...

Notes: Hello everyone! This is the very first time I’m publishing something bigger in here, I’m honestly still figuring out how Tumblr works, even though I’ve had this account for quite some time now 😅. That being said, please don’t expect anything super impressive. I tried my best though just so you know. 🥺

A/N- It didn’t turn out as I expected, but I really hope at least some of you find it enjoyable :(

Y/C/N - your channel name

part 2

part 3 

part 4 

part 5 

PURE [1]

“Did you guys find anybody?” Felix asked, as the number of players still showed just 7 of them. They could just start now, but the game would be way more fun with a full lobby. 

“Yeah, Lily’s joining. I just texted her the code, so she should be here at any moment.” Sykkuno replied after receiving a text message from the said girl. “Oh, and Corpse also said he’d be joining soon.” 

“Great. Anyone else?”

 “I think Jack was also bringing someone, right?” Dave asked.

“Huh? Oh yeah, I have one coming, she’ll join us in a few” the asked man replied at the same moment Lily’s character appeared in the lobby. 

“Who you’re bringing Jack?” 

“Y/N” he said, causing Felix to gasp in shock and yell into his mic:

“How the fuck did you manage to convince her? I’ve been bugging her about this game for the past week and she always had some excuse!” 

“What can I say, my charm is irresistible” Jack replied nonchalantly, causing everyone in the lobby to laugh at his fake deep voice.

The number of participants changed to 9, as a little black astronaut with horns on his helmet appeared in the lobby. 

“Corpse, you’re here!” Rae’s character ran up to the man, circling him excitedly. 

“Hey man!”

“What’s up, Corpse?”

“Hello everyone” his deep voice sounded out “Sorry to keep you waiting.”

“All good man, we’re still waiting for one person.” Felix reassured him “Sean, why is she not here yet? Are you sure you’ve sent her the right code?”

“Of course I am!” he all but shouted at Felix “And about that, she just texted me to give her a few more minutes and that we should start without her.”

“We can just wait, right?” Lily offered, earning a few hums of approval from the others.

“I think it might take a little longer than a few minutes, she has some problems with her microphone.”

“Who are you guys talking about?” Corpse asked, completely unaware of who Jack was referring to.

“Wait, Jack, you mean Y/N from Y/C/N?” Sykkuno asked suddenly, only then realizing why this name sounded familiar

“Yeah, the one and only” Jack replied, a smile evident in his voice.

“Oh my god, I love her videos!” Rae exclaimed at that “She’s so funny and sweet!”

“Yeah! Her new video is so freaking cute, I wish she’d upload more often.” Poki agreed. 

“Right?” Jack said, clearly very proud of his friend. “But don’t let that sweet demeanor fool you guys cause she’s one of the best players I’ve encountered in this game.”

“That’s true, she’s a secret big brain genius” Toast confirmed, making Pewdiepie gasp once again. 

“wHAT??YOU TWO PLAYED WITH HER?!” Felix’s offended voice boomed through everyone’s headphones “HOW DARE YOU. HOW COULD YOU NOT INVITE ME?!” 

“That’s for not inviting me to your latest Cringe episode!” Jack was quick to respond, making others in the lobby laugh at their mini fight. 

“Oh, so that’s where I recognized her from!” Sykkuno nearly shouted when he finally put two and two together. “I can’t wait to meet her, she seems like a really nice person.”

“She is! When she got impostor for the first time she refused to kill me” Toast explained, earning himself a couple of Aww’s from his friends. “So we just ran around the emergency button until I called the meeting and voted her off.”

“Yeah, only to be her first victim in the next game.” Jack all but giggled, clearly very amused at the memory of Y/N going into a full berserk mode. No one except for him and Toast knew how good she really was at this game... 

“She’s basically the wolf in sheep’s skin” Felix concluded with a chuckle “Very soft wolf, however.”

“She’s like the complete opposite of Corpse, both in voice and personality” Jack suddenly said, making Felix laugh wholeheartedly at something only two of them understood at the moment. 

“I don’t know how should I take that” Corpse admitted with a chuckle. He remained silent for most of the conversation since he didn’t really know who the guys were talking about. But he would lie if he said he wasn’t intrigued by this girl at least in the slightest. Although he heard about her channel, he hasn’t seen any of her videos, so he didn’t really know what to expect. But hearing what gamers like Sean and Felix said about her, he knew he’s not gonna be disappointed once the girl joins them in the game. 

“Imagine Corpse and Y/N talking.” Felix said suddenly with a seemingly very amused voice.

“Imagine Corpse and Y/N both being Impostors” Toast said, which resulted in many of them shouting over each other at how crazy that would be. 

“Alright, now that you mention this I start fearing the moment two of them meet” Jack confessed with loud laughter following the sentence. Corpse chuckled deeply under his breath, at the same time glancing at the questions his audience was asking him in his stream. He could hardly read any, as there were quite a lot of people asking, so all he saw was just a bunch of comments moving at the speed of light in his chat. He wouldn't say it out loud, but he was slightly nervous, seeing the growing number of people watching his stream. It was still a rather new thing to him, and he feared he'd say something inappropriate, or just make a complete idiot out of himself. 

"At least no one can see me..." he mumbled under his breath after muting his microphone. 

"Oh! Y/N just texted me! She's joining the call right now!" 

"Fuck yeah!" Felix shouted excitedly "Just so you know Jack, I won't forget that you two played without me."

"Uh-oh. Is that a threat? Are you threatening me now?" 

"It's a warning" Felix replied, receiving a series of gasps from other players. "If I get impostor, you're the first one on my list."

"Okay, everyone heard that! You know who to vote off when I'm dead!" 

"It's so cool to play with someone new, I wonder if she's as good as you guys depict her" Sykkuno spoke up, but before anyone could answer his question, a new character popped up in the lobby.

*** 

"Hi everyone! I’m sorry I left you just like that, but this stream would be completely useless without me being able to answer your questions. Fortunately it wasn’t anything serious, I just had to readjust my mic and go through the settings to find what was wrong. Took some time, but here I am now!” Y/N chirped into her microphone, smiling apologetically at her webcam. At the moments like this, she really appreciated how supportive her audience was. No one was hating on her when she had to get off the stream for a couple of minutes, and everyone was just so understanding that it made her heart melt. Perhaps her audience wasn’t very big, but it felt almost like a second family to her. 

“Anyway, as you already know from my twitter, today I’ll be playing Among Us with my friends and their friends! I can’t wait if I’m being honest, last time I played this game was so much fun, and there was only a few of us.” she admitted with a genuine smile on her face. “Let’s just text Sean now so we can get into the lobby...”

Y/N: Ready to play with you guys ^^

Jackaboy: Great! You got that mic fixed already? 

Y/N: Yes, everything is fine. I’m sorry you had to wait so long.

Jackaboy: It’s all good kiddo, no worries. I’ll call you and send you the code in a sec.��

Y/N: Perfect, thank you Sean :)

Jackaboy: Btw, everyone can’t wait to meet you ;-)Y/N stared at the screen for a moment, only now, seconds before joining the group, realizing how nervous she felt. From Sean’s tweets she saw earlier, she figured that the lobby was right now full of many famous streamers, those she wouldn’t even compare herself to. It’s not that she thought of herself very low, but... being among such youtube celebrities like them made her panic a little bit. She didn’t want to look like a complete fool amongst them. 

Playing or recording with Sean and Felix was something else because she knew those guys for years (and yet still sometimes found herself thinking how lucky she got to be able to call them her friends). She felt good in their company, not worrying about choosing the right words. But amongst the rest of the players, she knew only Toast and talked with Rae maybe once in her life... 

What if the rest won’t like her? 

Y/N cleared her throat, realizing that she was still staring at her phone like hypnotized and her audience was already asking her what’s going on. She quickly typed in the code Sean had texted her and readjusted her headphones, before joining the discord chat.

“THERE SHE IS” screamed Sean, making her grin from ear to ear, hearing how excited he was “Little wonderchild!”

“I think you meant little TRAITOR” Felix corrected him with a scoff. A silence settled in the lobby as everyone was waiting for Y/N to speak up.

“Um... hello everyone..” she said softly, almost inaudibly, a sudden wave of shyness taking over her. “I’m Y/N” 

“Oh, you were right about that Corpse thing!” replied another, also very soft and very sweet voice, and Y/N saw the image of someone named Lily pop up. “It’s like the exact opposite!” 

“See? Told ya. Everyone, meet Y/N/N, the little angel from Y/C/N.” 

“Hey Y/N!”

“Hi there!”

“Hey, what’s up?”

“H-Hi, so great to meet you, Y/N!” a very friendly sounding voice said, and a little lime astronaut with the name Sykkuno above it started running around her. “Can’t wait to play with you!”

“That’s so nice, thank you” she replied with a wide smile on her face, moving around his character as well. “I can’t wait to play with you too, actually with all you guys. It’s so great to be here with you.”

“Jack I swear she’s the cutest little thing I’ve ever heard. Where the hell did you find her?!” Poki all but yelled at the man, making Y/N giggle to herself and in-process loosen up a little bit. They all seemed like someone she’d happily be friends with. 

“Or rather, where do you get one?” someone else commented, making them all burst into laughter, Y/N included. 

“Guys, what did I say about that sweet demeanor...” Jack said after calming down from his fit “Don’t put your guard down just because she sounds like that!”

“Wait- what did you tell them about me?” Y/N asked confused, the tone of her voice making him laugh even more “Jack!”

“Don’t worry, only the good stuff” a very deep, low voice spoke up, leaving her taken aback for a moment. Her eyes widened slightly and she glanced at the name of that person, reading out CORPSE. Now that’s something she didn’t expect... 

“Corpse, mind your manners! You didn’t even introduce yourself!” 

“Oh, shit- yeah, sorry. Um, I’m Corpse, it’s very nice to meet you Y/N” he replied right after, making her lip corners curl up into a smile. 

“Nice to meet you too Corpse, you have a really pleasant voice.” she spoke sweetly, completely unaware of the chaos that was taking place in her stream chat. She didn’t even think of it the way her audience did, she just simply spoke up her mind, and being an incredibly nice person - turned it into a compliment.

“Oh- wow. I mean, thank you so much. I love your voice too, it’s really sweet” he replied, nervously chuckling at the end, before muting his mic. It was, however, enough for Felix and Sean to start teasing him, as the two immediately screamed:

“SIIIMP!!!”

“It’s the voice Felix, I told you he’d fall into her trap!” 

“Wait- he was just being nice, guys! Stop making fun of him” Y/N immediately defended the man, trying to speak up over the hysterical laughter of the other players. 

“Oh my god, but what if they both get impostors and they both pull the voice cards on us?!” Rae managed to yell through all the noise, making Y/N even more confused.

“Wait, what? What do you mean? I don’t understand.” 

“Don’t worry Y/N, that’s how I feel all the time around them.” Sykkuno seemed to be the only one who heard her question, as the rest continued their gabbing without giving her as much as a glance. 

“Alright, let’s start the game maybe. I might have a few old scores to settle” Toast cleared his throat theatrically, his astronaut coming face to face with Y/N’s. 

“Oh, you mean me? I thought I already apologized!” she replied frantically. “You gave me no choice Toast, I didn’t even want to kill you in the first place...”

“BUT YOU DID. IN THE VERY FIRST ROUND” 

“I’m sorry!” 

“Alright, enough! Toast, just don’t kill her right away, okay? Let her run around the map, fearing for her life for a moment.” Y/N gasped upon hearing Jack’s words, clearly sensing the smirk behind his voice. 

“Wha- Jack?! Since when are you against me?!” 

“Don’t worry Y/N, I won’t let them hurt you. You haven’t played with us yet, I’ll protect you.” 

“Oh, thank you so much Sykkuno! I’ll protect you too!” 

“Great. Another one simping...” was Felix’s last words, before the game began. 

Y/N sighed in relief upon seeing the word crewmate forming on her screen, but at the same time feared Toast’s inevitable revenge. She thought they'd already buried the hatchet, but it seemed that he was desperate to make her pay for the last time they played together. 

“Aw, Sykkuno was serious” she mumbled with a smile, when his lime astronaut started circling her white one, so she would follow him. “Okay, let’s do some tasks.”

They both made their way towards the medbay, Sykkuno patiently waiting nearby as she did the scan, then Y/N waiting for him to do the same. The moment his little character stepped towards her, a meeting was called by none other than Felix.

“What happened?” Rae asked.

“I called the meeting because I’m afraid of Jack” he responded, causing everyone to laugh. “Seriously though! Dude’s been following me around the whole time.”

“I was just making sure nobody kills you.”

“Yeah don’t go all Sykkuno on me!” Felix screamed, making the call erupt into even more laughter. 

“Alright, are we skipping?” 

“Yeah.”

“Guys, my life is in danger!” Felix wouldn’t give up. “Come on, show some support! Y/N? You played with him, you know his techniques!” 

“Sorry Felix” Y/N giggled, clicking the skip button. 

When the next round began, Sykkuno was quick to join Y/N on her way towards admin, where they both found Poki doing the upload. They did the card swipe and left her there, when the lights suddenly went off.

“Uh-oh. Let’s head the opposite direction, Sykkuno” the girl murmured, dancing around his character and heading towards Comms instead of going to Electrical. It was the easiest way to die, after all. 

Once they entered the room and waited for someone to fix the lights, Y/N could see another figure appear in the same location. She couldn’t recognize whose character it was, but upon seeing the horns on the helmet she smiled to herself.

“Hey there, Corpse” she said, walking up to the black astronaut, who was standing still in the same place as if he was just watching her and Sykkuno run around Comms instead of doing their tasks. 

They stood like that for a couple of seconds until Corpse turned around and ran away, and that’s when the first body was reported. 

“Oh no, Jack!” 

“Poor guy. He’s gonna haunt us now.”

“Where’s the body?” 

“Navigation” replied Rae, who was the one to find Sean’s green astronauts’ body “Didn’t see anyone around, but I’m pretty sure someone just vented right in front of my eyes...”

“Any suspicions?” Toast asked.

“Um, not really sure, it was the exact same moment the lights went off. I was doing tasks with Jack and then he just died. I only saw the vent close, nothing or no one else.”

“Okay, where are you guys right now?” 

“I’m in admin with Dave, we only passed Poki when we got there.” Lily’s voice sounded out, quickly being joined by Poki’s explanation.

“Yeah, I was finishing the upload when you guys came in, Y/N and Sykkuno saw it”

“Did you see her?” Toast asked, addressing his question towards the white and lime astronauts. 

“Yes, we were doing the card swipe before going to Comms. Corpse joined us for a moment and then left.”

“Yeah, I was on my way to fix the lights when I stumbled upon them in Comms, the body was reported the exact moment I left.”

“Can someone confirm this? I mean, did someone see you besides the two of them?” Toast continued his questioning. 

“I think I only saw Felix in Medbay.”

“Hmm, so no one really knows where you were this whole time. You could easily lure Jack into Navigation and kill him there. Is that what you did, Corpse?”

“Woah, that’s some serious accusation” Corpse replied in his usual, low and calm voice. “Where were you Toast? You seem the only one who still doesn’t have an alibi”

“Neither does Felix.” Y/N spoke innocently, and the mentioned man quickly started his explanation.

“Okay, I was with Jack at the beginning but he clearly can’t confirm this since someone snapped his fucking neck. We’ve split up in O2 after doing our tasks and then he must’ve gone with Rae. I just wandered around the map, escaping from the death.”

“Hmm, so not only were you one of the last people to see him alive, but you also admit to not doing your tasks” Y/N said, trying her best to keep her voice steady and stop herself from laughing. She was sure Sykkuno was doing the same thing, they both refused to do any tasks after the lights went off, after all.

“Yeah, but does that already makes me an Imposter? I’m just scared for my life, that’s all.”

“Y/N has some good logic, but I’m not really sure it’s Pewds. I mean, I saw him in Medbay and he really seemed to be just jogging around.” Corpse said, his voice almost immediately doing its magic, as people more or less willingly agreed to skip this round as well. 

“I think it’s Felix. I mean, I haven’t played with him yet, but I have this feeling that he’s just acting.” Y/N said to her chat after muting herself. She went towards Weapons to do another task, seeing Sykkuno’s little character follow her once again, but the doors were suddenly locked and his lime astronaut remained in Cafeteria. “Oh no, Sykkuno” she sighed with a pout on her face, deciding against waiting for him and risking getting her neck snapped. She finished her task in Weapons and moved towards another location, when suddenly Corpse appeared in front of her, coming right out of nowhere. 

“Oh- Corpse, you scared me to death” Y/N breathed a laugh, watching as his character stood still for a couple of seconds, before circling around her white astronaut. Y/N nodded her head with a smile, even though he couldn’t see her, and followed him in Shields, where they found Poki’s dead body. 

“The body is in Shields” Y/N replied right after reporting the body, only to gasp in shock when she realized more than one person was killed. Red crosses decorated not only Poki’s name but were also visible next to Dave and Lily. 

“What the hell?!” Felix all but yelled into his mic, obviously shocked just like everyone else who was still alive. 

“Now that’s... a lot of bodies” Sykkuno mumbled under his breath. 

“Alright, who’s in Shields? Y/N, you said you found the body there, which one?”

“Poki’s, Corpse was there with me” her reply was followed by his short and low hum. 

“Sykkuno, where are you? I didn’t see you anywhere since the last round.” Felix asked, clearly accusing the lime astronaut of being a murderer. 

“I was... doing the wires in electrical, Toast was there for a moment as well.”

“Yeah but I was only searching for the body, so I saw you maybe for a second” Toast replied, building even more suspicions around Sykkuno.

“But- guys, you know I wouldn’t kill two people in one round, let alone four of them.”

“No one says you did that, I only mentioned that you were nowhere to be seen. You could’ve been sabotaging the map for the other Impostor” Felix said nonchalantly.

“Guys, I-”

“It’s him! It must be him!” Rae shouted through her mic. 

“Sykkuno is 100% innocent, I can vouch for him” Y/N’s voice sounded out in everyone’s headphones “We were together since the start of the game and he didn’t kill me, even though he had quite a number of chances to do so.”

“Weren’t you with Corpse this time?” Felix asked suspiciously.

“I was! But at the beginning, I was with Sykkuno, until someone locked him in Cafeteria. That’s when we split up.”

“And you haven’t seen him ever since?”

“Well, no, but-”

“Then I can assure you it was only a matter of time before he’d stab you in the back” Toast concluded, making Sykkuno gasp in confusion.

“Wha- No, I would never do that! Y/N is our guest, I was just making sure she was okay!”

“Sykkuno, simping won’t save your life right now” 

“Wha- I- Guys!” he tried to stutter out some logical explanation “Y/N, don’t believe them!”

“I don’t, I know you’re innocent! C’mon guys, he wouldn’t do it!” 

“Yeah yeah, let’s kick him out. Corpse, who are you voting?” Toast asked, and Y/N could see the I voted sign next to his character. 

“I kinda feel like Felix tries to shift the blame onto Sykkuno. He didn’t even tell his location, and was already throwing accusations on someone else.” Corpse replied after a moment, making the smile widen on Y/N’s face. Someone was finally on her side! 

“That’s because he can’t even explain himself!” Felix exclaimed, voting as well. 

“Besides, I’m pretty sure if it wasn’t for whoever locked that door, Y/N would be dead as well!” 

“No, I told you I-!”

“Guys, we have ten seconds to vote. Rae?” 

“I think it’s him as well. He was acting suspiciously since we started this round. I vote Sykkuno”

“But..!” 

“No, Sykkuno...” Y/N whispered with a pout on her lips, when she saw the number of people who voted for her lime friend. 

Sykkuno was ejected. 

“Alright, I’m pretty sure it’s Felix. I saw Rae multiple times and she didn’t kill me, Toast also doesn’t act very Impostor like, but maybe that’s just one of his strategies... Corpse is with me again, I don’t think that’s him, I mean, he followed me around last round, but still didn’t do anything, and even vouched for me and Sykkuno when we were both clearly chilling in comms. It can’t be him... right?” 

 Dead body reported.

 “I just saw Corpse kill Toast, then vent!” Rae’s voice blared through Y/N’s headphones, as she looked in shock at the red cross next to Toast’s name. If not him, then..?

“What?” the accused man asked calmly “That’s a self-report, she’s trying to frame me. You guys can’t possibly believe her.”

“I believe her. I saw you enter the Electrical with Toast, then he’s suddenly dead” Felix said. 

“That’s because she vented in there and killed him.”

“No! I swear, Y/N/N you have to believe me!” she directed her words towards the girl who remained silent during their discussion, processing her accusations over and over in her head. “I was fixing the wires, Toast was doing another task, and then boom! I see Corpse snapping his neck!”

“How could you see that if the lights were off?” Y/N suddenly asked, making Rae cut her own sentence off “No one went to fix them, they were off the entire round.”

Silence. 

“It’s Rae, it must be her” Corpse couldn’t help but laugh wholeheartedly at how small was the mistake which completely blew Rae’s cover. “We’re voting Rae, right Y/N?”

“No! Guys, I mean, let me explain, I-!”

Rae was ejected. 

“Now that was something I didn’t expect. I would’ve never thought it was her, I even suspected that Sykkuno might really have been the other Impostor, but now... It’s just me, Corpse, and Felix. I’m clear, clearly, so it must be one of them. And since Corpse protected me for the past few rounds, there’s no other option than...”

Her eyes suddenly widened when the realization hit her, and she quickly turned around to speed towards the emergency button. Fortunately, no one was around to stop her from calling the meeting.

“Felix.” Y/N started, trying to contain her excitement and sound seriously “Where were you when Sean was killed?”

Neither Corpse of Felix said a word, as it was probably the last question they expected her to ask. Felix cleared his throat, however, and finally replied:

“Y/N, that was literally the beginning of a game. How am I supposed to remember what I did then?”

“Well” she said nonchalantly “I, for example, clearly remember the things you said even when we were in the lobby.”

“What are you implying?” 

“Wasn’t it you, who told everyone that Sean was your number one if you get Impostor?” she asked with a wicked smile on her face. Felix was dumbfounded, he obviously didn’t expect her to pull that card on him, hell, he didn’t even know how she knew about it since she wasn’t even in the call at the time. 

“FELIX” Corpse suddenly broke the silence, simultaneously breaking the said man from his train of thoughts. 

“Okay, first of all- YOU WEREN’T EVEN IN THE CALL WHEN I SAID THAT” he yelled through his mic, making both Y/N and Corpse laugh, as it only confirmed their suspicions. 

“See? You only proved my point.” 

“Oh, fuck’s sake- I was just joking okay?!” he tried to defend himself, but hearing how he couldn’t even contain his own laughter anymore, it was clear he already accepted the defeat. “It wasn’t serious, god damn it!” 

“You know what to do, Y/N” Corpse’s voice asked through her headphones, and surely, she knew exactly what to do.

“C’mon Y/N, that’s not fair! At least let me explain myself!” 

“Bye Felix” she said in an overly dramatic tone before Corpse voted as well. 

Soon enough, the sign VICTORY could be seen on her screen, which made her squeak and joy. This game was really fun, even though she was so scared of being killed first. 

“I knew it! I knew you would figure out it’s him! That son of a bitch who murdered me!” Jack basically yelled out, clearly very happy about the result. 

“Y/N, seriously now, how did you know I’ve said that?” Felix asked without even hiding his surprised tone.

“Let’s just say I might’ve stolen some of your viewers, Felix” she admitted, winking at her webcam, a new wave of comments landing on her chat. “Thanks guys!” 

“Okay, that is rude and not fair!” 

“It helped me win, so I’ve got nothing else to say” Y/N grinned from ear to ear, before muting herself for a moment to finally answer some of the questions from her chat, while the rest took a quick break to eat something or go to the bathroom.

She was halfway through telling the story of how she met Sean when she noticed she got a message from a private discord chat. 

CORPSE: That was really impressive :)

Y/N smiled to herself upon seeing his text and quickly typed out the answer. 

Y/N: Thanks!! I wouldn’t have done that without you though, you stood up for me and Sykkuno and all

Y/N: Also, thanks for protecting me from being murdered ^^

CORPSE: No problem, I knew you were innocent right away. 

CORPSE: Anyway, good game, Sean was right saying that you’re one of the best players

She couldn’t help the blush that arose on her cheeks, it was very sweet of him to say that, even though she didn’t actually do much except for exposing Felix. 

Y/N: I wasn’t an Impostor though, so you didn’t really see much :)

She watched the three dots beside his name, that signaled he was still texting. The chat was completely forgotten, but people seemed to quickly notice that small, shy smile on her lips, and the pink tint decoring her cheeks.

CORPSE: Okay, now I’m intrigued... 

Y/N: Maybe we’ll both be Impostors one day ^^

CORPSE: Can’t wait for that to happen.

Soon enough, they returned to the lobby to begin another game. Y/N glanced at her chat for a second, and the moment she returned her eyes to the game, her jaw basically dropped. 

IMPOSTOR was written in bold letters in the middle of the red screen, right above her name.

Corpse’s little character was standing beside her. 

[juletheghoul]

Hey sweetie, hope you're doing well. Better than me I hope, in this Texas heat!!!😥🤤 When your muse permits, may I please have some more Dave York? I am a shameless slut for that suburban murder Dilf!!!

Hello lovely!

Okay - so I've written more for the soft!Dave fic I gave a preview for in this post and here and this picks up where that left off.

Pairing: Dave York x f!reader (soft!dave)

Smut under the cut (18+ NO MINORS semi-public touching, p in v sex, oral-female receiving) (word count 2.6k)

All in all it had gone better than he thought. He enjoyed your company - he found you attractive and you liked him. That was all he needed. The fact that you made him laugh had been a bonus. You were his new mission and it wouldn’t have mattered what you were like in all honesty but this was good. This he could work with.

He hadn’t meant to kiss you like that, he planned to take it a little slower, just a little peck to show you he was interested. He definitely didn’t expect you to open up for him like that, and he definitely didn’t expect to enjoy it so much. Another bonus.

He didn’t want to scare you away by reaching out too quickly, figuring a couple of days should be time enough. He wanted to make sure this worked out. He expected the same game of cat and mouse men and women have been playing with each other forever. He had waited to message you - which meant he would probably hear from you in a few hours.

-Hi - It’s Dave from the other night, wondering if you wanted to grab dinner on Friday?

He was doing some reconnaissance for an upcoming job and he wanted to read through his reports; he wasn’t expecting you to respond so quickly. Frankly, it was refreshing.

-Hey! Yes I’d love to, really happy to hear from you =)

He smiled despite himself, he didn’t expect you to be so open and honest.

-I’m glad to hear, I had a great time

He could see you typing your response before he put his phone down so he waited.

-Me too, thought maybe I’d scared you away - usually don’t make out on the first date

-Me either - glad we did though, you definitely did not scare me away. Just at work right now. Maybe we could talk more later?

-Sure! Hope you have a great day =)

-You too!

----

He kept up the communication with you when he got home, answering your messages as he cooked himself a small dinner. He asked you all the questions people usually ask when getting to know someone, he flirted the best he could. He was doing everything in his power to make sure you were interested, without being vulgar. He briefly considered whether this was manipulation, presenting himself in a way he knew you’d respond to in order to secure a relationship. In a sense everyone did this, the difference was they liked the people they were chasing.

He didn't not like you, he just didn’t really like anyone. It all came from his training and subsequently, his job. He learned long ago to not hold onto anyone too close, it hurt more when you lost them.

This was good though, he was content.

----

You couldn’t lie to yourself about how excited you were when Friday came around. He was consistent which was really important to you, he kept up with the messages and asked you actual questions and he seemed interested. It had been so long since you’d dated someone, since you felt excited about someone and seeing his messages gave you butterflies.

You had to stop yourself from running to the door when he knocked; you did your absolute best to reign in your heartbeat as you opened the door.

“Hi - hope I’m not too early.” He smiled - giving you a not so subtle onceover which made you momentarily self-conscious of your outfit choice; he must have taken notice of your expression.

“You look beautiful, are you ready to go?”

“Thank you - you look really handsome - Yes I’m ready.” You smiled as you grabbed your purse and locked your door.

You didn’t think this date could have gone better than the first but it did. He was charming, he was sweet and most importantly he made you laugh. His sense of humour was a lot like yours, dry and witty although you knew you could be a bit goofier than him. You didn’t want to get your hopes up too high but you really liked his company and although it was still early, you could see this getting more serious.

When he walked you to your front door you didn’t play coy.

“I hope you don’t think less of me, but I really want you to kiss me.” You moved closer - peering up at him through your lashes, hoping that you looked sexy.

“I hope you don’t think less of me, but I’ve been wanting to kiss you all night.” He was smirking at you and you felt yourself flush. His hand almost engulfed your face as he pulled you in closer.

The kiss was searing; his tongue licked the seam of your mouth - asking for permission which you gladly gave. He deepened it further, pressing you up against your front door- his hands moving from your face to your waist. He slanted his mouth to get deeper, to make you ache. Your hands found themselves in his hair, holding him closely while you pressed your body as close to him as you could. It went on longer than it had any right to.

When he pulled away you were both panting.

“I had a really great time, goodnight.” He kissed you softer then and waited for you to make your way inside. Any longer and you would have pulled him into the house with you by his belt. You were happy he made the decision for you.

----

You had a few more dates and they were going better than you had imagined. He had come over for dinner one night, which ended in a very heavy makeout session on your couch before he went home. He was being really respectful which you appreciated, you really liked him and in the back of your mind you were nervous that he’d lose interest as soon as you gave it up. It was frustrating, because you were reaching your limit.

----

You walked through the parking lot with him hand in hand, on your way into the theatre. He had let you pick the movie - horror of course - and you were excited to cuddle up with him. You had a plan tonight and it sent a hot spike of arousal through your belly.

He didn’t let you pay for anything usually but you insisted he at least let you pay for the snacks, it didn’t seem like he would let you but you gave him a pout and he relented. Smiling good naturedly and grumbling about not making that pout a habit.

You lifted the seat divider as soon as you picked out your seats, making your intentions of getting close quite clear. He seemed to have the same idea; bringing his arm around you and firmly tucking you into his side.

He smells so good you thought to yourself as you leaned into the crook of his neck, barely paying attention to the trailers. His palm rubbed at your arm through the soft material of your sundress as the movie started, the both of you getting lost in it briefly. When it got too gruesome or scary you tucked your face into his neck, bringing your hands up to block out the screen.

You felt him chuckle then, his low velvety voice whispering in your ear.

“We can leave if you don’t want to watch this.” He said it without judgement, caring only for your comfort even though this could have been an excuse for him to have you close. It hardened your resolve.

“No, I want to stay, but I think I'd like it better if you distracted me.” You gave him a mischievous smile, hoping he’d take the hint. Thankfully - he did.

He tipped your chin up and kissed you softly at first, but deeper as time went on. This was going to work, you could feel his desire for you in it. You were afraid he’d be scandalized at what you wanted him to do but you couldn’t wait anymore. You tentatively reached for the arm around your shoulder and brought down to grab your breast. He pulled away suddenly and it made you nervous - maybe he wasn’t into this.

“Here?” He wasn’t scandalized, he was wearing a smirk - seemingly enjoying the thought of it, feeling you up in the movie theatre like a teenager.

“Do you want to? It’s okay if you don’t.” he could see your self-doubt written across your face.

“Only if you promise to be quiet for me.” He whispered it into your ear and you almost let out a moan. He kissed you again and this time you felt his hand dip into the breezy neckline of your dress, surprising you even further by reaching into your bra. He held you close, moving his kisses to your jaw, your pulse point - rolling your nipple between his fingers by the time he reached your ear.

You were breathing a little heavy as he pulled at it slightly, anyone could have looked over and seen the two of you but it didn’t matter - not when it felt so good.

“Is this what you wanted? Does it feel good, baby?” He spoke in a low voice as he bit your ear and you could feel the arousal leaking out of you. He pinched at the other through the fabric as he kissed you again and it was too much, you grabbed at his thigh, breathing out a god yes as he continued his ministrations.

“I wish I could lick them right now, bite them a little bit, would you let me?” He was pulling at the collar of your dress slightly, enough for him to see into your dress a little.

“Right now? What if someone sees?” You were asking even though the thought of his mouth on your tits in the middle of a movie theatre almost made you cum in itself.

“I would be really careful, just a little lick.” He kissed your neck as he spoke and you realized then that you would have let him do whatever he wanted.

“Okay - fast though.” You laughed conspiratorially - you felt reckless and wild, and excited to have him touch you this way. He pulled you close to him, turning in his seat slightly and quickly pulled your dress down along with the cup of your bra. Seeing your breast out while there were -admittedly- very few people in the movie theatre caused your heart to race. He kept his word though, quickly lowering his head to lick your nipple, sucking it into his mouth. The swirl of his tongue around it had you biting your lip to keep your mouth shut. He couldn’t just have one though, pulling down the other cup to lavish the other one with the same attention and then quickly adjusting it so you were decent again.

You didn’t think you could make it through this movie with how your body was responding to him. Your panties were sticking to your body, your slick running freely and his words only served to amp up the arousal.

“Look what you did to me.” He brought your hand to the sizeable bulge in his jeans. You gasped slightly at the size, and suddenly you didn’t want to be in the theatre any more.

“Take me home David, now.” Your tone was iron and he didn’t argue; hastily pulling you up out of your seat in his haste to obey. The grip he had on your waist as he walked through the theatre and through the parking lot made you laugh with nervous excitement. You saw that he had an intensity about him that had you clenching painfully around nothing.

When you arrived at your place you practically ran inside; you had barely managed to close your door when he picked you up. Your arms and legs wrapped around him tightly as he held onto your ass. He walked you towards your room, pausing briefly to push you up against the wall in the hallway, halfway up the stairs, your bedroom door. Finally dropping you onto your bed.

He fell onto you and ground his hips against the soft fabric at your core. He was so thick, the pressure of him grinding into you was just right and you pulled at his shirt - wanting to feel his skin against you and when he took over you sat up to pull your dress off. He had your bra off faster than you thought possible.

“So pretty.” He dove in, sucking and biting at your nipples - drawing out whimpers and moans as you held his head close to your chest. You could see his saliva glistening on the soft skin of your tits when he alternated from one to the other and you couldn’t hold off any more.

“Please fuck me.” You pulled his face up from your chest to breathe the words into his mouth, the coil in your belly was already wound tight and he hadn’t even gone near your pussy yet.

“I didn’t bring a condom.” He looked a bit sheepish now, hoping against hope you’d have one.

“I’m on the pill, and I’m clean - but we can do other things if you aren’t comfortable.” You stroked his face softly, trying to convey that you wanted him either way. He hastily got up and took the rest of his clothes off while you shimmied out of your underwear. His cock bobbed out when he finally shed his layers, the tip of it weeping slightly - making your mouth water. He was bigger than your last sexual partner and though intimidated slightly, you were excited.

He crawled towards you as you watched him, settling his face between your thighs.

“You liked it when I licked your nipples baby? Look how wet and glossy you are.” He licked a strip from your fluttering entrance to your clit; he parted you with his tongue and focused on your clit, letting his saliva drip down to make you wetter. The steady glide of his tongue drove you into a frenzy. You barely registered your hands grabbing his hair, using him to grind yourself against his tongue. You were not going to last, you could feel yourself careening over the edge. The wave of it quickly racing up to crash over you. When he slowly slid two thick fingers into your cunt and curled them just so, the wave crested. Your body seizing up with the force of your climax.

“You taste so good baby.” He kissed your mound, the dip in your hip; he slowly made his way up the soft skin of your belly, pausing to give each nipple a quick lick before he settled between your legs. You felt the heavy weight of him sliding through your folds, the blunt tip of him nudging at your clit making you wince with overstimulation before he gradually fed himself into you.

He wrapped your legs high on his waist and rocked into you at a steady pace, you could see from his ragged breathing he was trying not to jack hammer into your wet heat, he was trying to make himself last.

The stretch of him was delicious, you felt full and his cock was hitting something that made you fall silent; made your eyes clench shut against his neck. You could tell he was getting close when he crushed you underneath him, resting almost all of his weight on top of you while he snapped his hips forward harder and harder. The sound of your joining a wet slap as he moaned in your ear - whispering about how good your pussy felt, how tight and wet it was, how he was going to cum- but not before he felt you cum first. He reached between you to rub little circles onto your clit, begging you to cum around him.

You obeyed, and he didn’t hold out much longer.

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

Tagging a few people I think might enjoy:

@foli-vora @ezrasbirdie @quica-quica-quica @beskarboobs @wheresarizona @absurdthirst

[buckyownsmylife]

Electric Feel - Tom Hiddleston smut

The one where Tom moved in to help you, but you end up helping each other.

Warnings: porn with a very unecessary and minimal plot, smut, dom!female, sub!Tom, masturbation (m), oral sex (f), mistress kink, brief mention of a stalker, actress!reader

Word count: 2k<

A/N: This is so small compared to everything @just-the-hiddles​ deserves, but it’s her birthday and I just couldn’t let it go by without a token of my gratitude, love and admiration! Happy birthday, Liz! I hope you know how much I care about you! ALSO: unedited for the moment because I just started and finished this entire thing in the last six hours when I should be studying but oh well.

Tom’s P.O.V.

I didn’t remember stopping to think for a single second ever since I saw the news. My fingers acted on their own accord, hitting those numbers I had memorized so long ago, raising the phone to my ear as I waited for her to pick up.

“Hello?” Hearing her voice didn’t calm me down like I expected it would. I realized then, I’d only feel tranquil once more when I could see her with my own eyes, touch her skin, feel her warmth.

“Darling? How are you?” I still asked, almost automatically, and if I had hoped she would at least be well enough to pretend to be okay, the sharp inhale that preceded her burst into tears shattered that illusion in a second. “I’m on my way.”

And that was how I ended up in her house in what felt like the blink of an eye. The trip there could have lasted days - all that mattered was that the second I had my arms wrapped around her, everything felt alright again.

“It’s okay,” I soothed her, but it was probably better directed at myself. “I’m here now.” It took at least a day before I was comfortable enough to ask her about it. “How did they find the guy?” When she latched onto a detailed explanation of the events from the last week, how she’d started receiving random death threats that suddenly weren’t so random anymore, I felt almost like I wasn’t even there, but floating over the living room, watching us talk from the outside looking in.

I held her close for a long time after that, unable to admit even to myself that not feeling her body against mine made me feel empty and weak. And so the feeling of protectiveness stirred awake inside of me - or maybe it had been there all along, I just failed to acknowledge it.

All I knew was that inserting myself into Y/N’s daily life was much easier than I ever expected it to be. And even if I told both her and myself that this was for her own safety, because she needed someone around until she felt comfortable by herself again, I knew it was more for my own benefit than anything else.

I just didn’t anticipate it would make my feelings that much harder to deal with. Did I know that I wanted her? Yes, maybe even ever since we’d met. And as our friendship progressed and we became closer, I saw that desire develop into something deeper, more solid. Still, I stupidly believed it was nothing more than a crush, and I’d be able to pretend it didn’t exist and get on with my life day after day like it wasn’t there.

Now that my days began and ended with her, I was highly aware of my mistake.

“Tommy,” she called out, making me lift my eyes from the tv and fall on her and the dog she currently tried to control. “I’m going to take her for a walk, okay?” I sat up automatically, ready to join her, when I felt a hand over my shoulder, gently pushing me back against the sofa.

“C’mon, finish the movie!” She admonished, a knowing grin on her face. “I think there’s a scene coming up with someone you particularly enjoy. I’m just going into the backyard, no need to worry.”

Even though I stayed seated where she’d left me, my eyes trailed over her figure as she disappeared inside the kitchen, until I heard the backdoor close. Despite knowing there was no possible immediate danger to her inside the boundaries of her own home, I couldn’t help but worry.

That was until a moan caught my attention, bringing it back to the tv once more. It sounded so familiar and so foreign at the same time, I was instantly intrigued, eyebrows furrowed as I struggled to identify the young woman that was being so brutally fucked by the main protagonist in a dark club.

My mouth hang open once the lighting changed and her face became recognizable, those same alluring features tempting me just as much as they tempted the character on the screen. So this was what she meant, I didn’t even know she was on this movie when I first picked it out. 

I could feel my member hardening inside my sweatpants as her beautiful, melodic voice kept tempting me, and I grit my teeth as I chanced a glance at the kitchen, wondering how long I had before she was back. Not enough, I knew that. Still, looking down at my crotch made me believe it was worth at least a try, because the alternative was her surely seeing just how affected her little scene had made me.

Y/N’s P.O.V.

The silence in the living room was my first indication that something was different, and as I stepped foot in the place where I’d left Tom not even five minutes ago, I realized my intuition was right - he’d abandoned the movie and left me alone in the main floor of the house.

Maybe he wanted to take a shower, or answer a call? I didn’t know, but I figured I should let him know I was back before he got worried, so I climbed up the stairs two at a time before stopping in front of the guest room he’d been staying in, suddenly frozen by what I heard.

“Y/N…” It was my name, breathed out in a whiney, raspy moan that left me no doubt over what was happening behind the door I now clutched so tightly. My mind drifted back to the movie we’d been watching, the scene I knew he’d see. Had I been the cause for his arousal?

My body acted of its own accord, the week of emotional tension before he arrived, replaced by the sexual energy that was always present whenever he was around finally getting the best of me. 

I opened the door. His hand was curled around a large member, the sight of which had me whimpering as I clenched my thighs together, alerting me of my entrance. His eyes, which were closed, immediately widened upon seeing me, and he tried to cover his erection with both hands, even if it was obviously not possible to do so. 

“Why are you shy?” I asked, head tilted as I analyzed the man before me, my mouth watering at the sight. I was desperate to give in to this desire, let go of the fears and anxieties that had been clawing at me ever since the first message arrived, and so I climbed on the bed like he was my prey, determined to make him crack and admit his own attraction to me.

“You called my name,” I noticed once I was on his lap, eyes taking inventory of every inch of pretty skin I couldn’t wait to bruise. “Don’t you want me?” At the sound of the insecurity in my voice, he jolted, eager to show that there wasn’t a reason for there to be any.

“Of course I do.” Smiling, I hummed appreciatively as I licked my lips, eyes darting down and seeing that he still hadn’t resumed his movements on his cock, even though it clearly needed some attention.

“Then why don’t you touch yourself while I suck little lovebites all over you huh?” Finally, I enveloped his pink lips with mine, eager to taste them, touch his tongue with mine. But I needed to see him cum way too badly, and I craved the control I knew I could exercise with him.

So I forced myself to pull away, laying kisses down his jaw until I reached his neck, starting to bite and suck there at the sound of his whines. Below us, I noticed he had started jerking off again, although hesitantly, and so I covered his hand with mine and forced him to get back to his previous pace.

“Show me how much you desired me,” I ordered, as he instantly fought back, “Kiss me again.” It was such a sweet request, and particularly in the breathless tone he tried to make petulant, it made me even more excited to play with the man I had wanted for so long. 

“But do you really deserve another kiss?” I taunted, pressing them on his chest, on his biceps, anywhere other than his lips. He was breathing through his mouth now, long deep sighs being interjected by his moans and whines, and it all went straight to my panties. 

“Yes,” he insisted, hand tightening around himself and a delicious blush spreading over his chest as I sat back on by heels to judge the hauntingly tempting image before me. He bit his lower lips in an effort to hold back his own sounds, but as I got rid of my clothes, his efforts proved fruitless, and a wanting cry escaped his throat as I forced him to quicken his movements once more.

“Oh, I see…” I wasn’t done teasing him, not by a long shot. “You’ve wanted me all along, haven’t you?” All he could do was nod, and I could see the underlying shyness in his reluctance to admit it. 

“Well, I’ve wanted you too, baby. And right now, I want to suck you off until my jaw is sore, how does that sound like?” Another moan was all I got as a response, making me smile wider than I’d ever done before.

“But I don’t think you’ve earned it yet. So for now, all I’ll let you do is keep touching yourself while you suck on my tits, how about that?” His eyelids were heavy when he looked at me, having to throw his head back to be able to meet my eyes.

“Fuck… It’s… perfect.” I cooed at how wrecked he looked like, even with how little I’d touched him, my navel brushing his member briefly as we adjusted ourselves so he could wrap his lips around my nipple.

“Oh…” I gasped in delight as tingles raised up my spine at the pleasant sensation, and between us, I could feel his movements growing more desperate as my moans replaced his in the otherwise silent bedroom.

When I felt him spill all over my stomach, I pulled him away from my chest by my grip on his locks, finally giving him what he wanted and capturing his lips with mine once more. “Hmm…” I moaned once we parted and I’d scooped some of his release to give it a taste. “So sweet.”

Tom was looking at me like I was some sort of extraterrestrial being, chest visibly heaving in his effort to keep breathing. “Can I taste you know?” He at last managed to ask, and I pretended to think, before gently nudging him out of the bed and onto the floor. 

“Yes,” I approved, wrapping his curls around my fingers again before bringing him down to the apex of my thighs, moaning as his tongue eagerly plunged inside of me, eager to get acquainted with the most intimate part of my body. “Who would have known you could be such a submissive little thing, huh?”

When he raised his head to answer, just the sight of my wetness dripping from the lower part of his face had my heart skipping a beat. “You should have known… A single word from you and I’d drop to my knees and worship you like you deserve… Mistress.”

[dc41896]

Penny for Your Thoughts (2)

Pairing: QB!Chris EvansxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: You definitely didn’t expect your first date to be so hectic, yet so perfect

⚠️: None just fluff💕

The weekend of a home game always seemed to have the city in more of a buzz than normal. Everyone rushing from store to store trying to get everything they’d need for watch parties and tailgating. Streets holding more cars from those who followed the visiting team to physically show their support.

And if said game resulted in a win, the energy only intensified as those invested seemed to sport brighter smiles. It even made complete strangers high-five after raving how no team could do it better. That was the current state surrounding you now after Boston College’s 24-12 comeback victory.

Since entering the dimly lit restaurant, all eyes were stuck to the two of you. Well mostly Chris, but you also received glances from those nosy enough to wonder who you were to him, and the occasional eye roll from the girls wishing they were the ones being led by his large hand to the table. He warned you ahead of time that this would probably happen and apologized in advance, but you understood it just came with the territory.

His eyes lift from scanning his menu to watch you studying yours as you toyed with the gold banded ring on your index finger. You already made his chest warm just from the slightest glimpse of you, but your face illuminated by the small lamp on the table had a soft smile spreading across his lips feeling as if you were the only two in the room.

“See anything you like?,” he asked, solid body leaning forward as his hands nervously rubbed together under the table and it’s pristine, white table cloth.

“Everything sounds so good, but I think I’ll just stick with a salad or something.”

“You sure? Get anything you want, it’s my treat. Plus I still owe you a celebration for acing your exam.”

Your face brightens at the reference to the conversation you had last month. That’s when your date was supposed to happen originally, but with you being so stressed about passing, you both agreed that it’d probably be best to try again later.

“We’ll go the next time we’re both free. That way we can celebrate.”

“Celebrate what exactly?,” you giggled, phone pressed against your ear as you scribbled more notes at your desk.

“You passing, duh.”

“Thanks for the confidence, but let’s not call it so early.”

Sure enough, he predicted right.

“You remembered,” you smiled.

“Of course I did, why would I forget?,” he asks. Fingertips finding your knee to graze against your soft skin making your cheeks warm.

“Well in that case, I’ll have the lobster, steak, and I’ll go ahead and put in my dessert order,” you joke flashing your most innocent smile.

“It’s up to you cutie.” You both laugh, but yours is a bit shorter lived at the reveal of his apparent nickname for you. From the way he carried on as if nothing happened, briefly checking his vibrating phone, you didn’t know if it was an accidental slip of the tongue or him being comfortable enough to say it in front of you.

Either way, your heart fluttered at the sentiment and how it sounded off his tongue.

“Excuse me,” a thick, Boston accent interrupts slightly startling both of you. “I hate to cut in, but I just wanted to say that game was incredible!”

“Oh um thanks man,” he politely smiles.

“I’ve been watching since I was a boy, and I can truly say you got something special kid. Like with that trick play to put us in the lead?! Phenomenal! No way you’re not going in the first round. Speaking of, you got any teams in mind? I know you gotta be eyeing the Pats!”

“I uh really appreciate the kind words, but I’m kinda in the middle of something,” Chris replies motioning between the both of you with his finger. From the look in his eyes, hoping that the middle aged man would get the hint.

“You’re right, I’m sorry,” he replies holding up his hands as he takes a step back. “You kids have a good time, and you keep throwing those touchdowns.” With a final wave and pat of his shoulder, Chris waits until the fan is definitely gone before apologizing to you with sympathetic eyes.

“You don’t have to apologize, it’s okay. They’re excited to see you.”

“This is our time though, and I want all my focus going to you.”

“Aww, that’s very-,”

“Hi! Sorry, but you’re the quarterback for BC right?!,” the excited lady asks holding the hand of her small son probably around eight or nine. Before answering, he looks to you seemingly asking you for permission, and although you knew he’d respectfully turn them away explaining how he’d be sure to find them later if you gave the right signal, you didn’t want to be the one getting in the way of him and his fans. Especially when they were little kids.

Gently nodding your head with a small smile, he quickly mouths “sorry” before turning his attention back to the mom and son, giving the awestruck boy a high five at his mentioning of how he has Chris’ jersey at home. At the mother’s asking, you took pictures of the three of them before she was heading back to the table with the little boy still smiling like the Cheshire Cat looking down at his favorite college quarterback’s autograph and small personalized message on the napkin in his hands.

“Now, where were we?,” he asks settling back in his seat, taking a drink from his glass of water. You don’t get the chance to answer, hearing a pair of heels clacking against the tile floor coming closer to your table. The head of red hair with perfect beach waves cascading down to her shoulders has a satisfied smirk on her pink, glossed lips as she finally reaches the two of you, more so focused on Chris.

“Well isn’t this a sight for sore eyes. Then again I probably shouldn’t be surprised seeing you here at our place.”

Actually, it wasn’t. They only came there once and she was solely preoccupied with making sure all her followers knew she was being spoiled at a fancy restaurant while they weren’t. Chris didn’t even remember getting a word in that night, having to listen to her boast about all the people who would be jealous of her if they already weren’t.

Finally setting her crystalline, blue eyes on you, you see right through the sweet facade as she sticks out her hand. Almond shaped nails freshly manicured a sparkly light blue color. “Where are my manners, I’m Kelly. I’m sure you’ve heard about me before.”

“Not really, no,” you answer shaking her hand and making her smirk falter. “That’s a pretty dress though.”

“Thanks,” she dryly replies pulling her hand back to her side.

“Babe, our table’s ready.”

A man built similar to Chris and around your age with black hair and hazel eyes lightly grazes her arm to get her attention, clearly not wanting to completely be shown to the table as he stayed behind her. You didn’t have to be a genius to figure out he was the guy she cheated with and was too guilty to face his teammate.

Well, soon to be former from the rumblings at the game of those who were in the know with the dealings of the players.

“You two enjoy your dinner,” Chris speaks finding your hand across the table and enclosing it with his warm one. This simple movement nearly had Kelly combust seeing him moved on with someone else, while you began to wonder even more about his true intentions.

“Yea, y-you too,” the unnamed man quickly replies pulling his speechless date with him, who had yet to look away from you until he physically turned her around.

“Hey why don’t we get out of here? It’s hard to have you to myself with everyone interrupting,” Chris suggests with a gentle smile.

“Um yea, sure. Lead the way.”

———

15 or 20 minutes of driving around the city, and you ended up on campus in the more secluded part of the grounds. Then again, with it being Saturday night every part was pretty much secluded now.

The gazebo brightly adorned with bulb fairy lights hanging from the ceiling and around the pillars was a popular spot for graduation and wedding photos, as well as other couples looking for a calmer space without having to go too far. And although a beautiful and romantic scene, Chris desperately wished he could’ve found someplace better to take you.

“You okay?,” he nervously asks settling on the blanket he placed on the wooden floorboards so your clothes wouldn’t pick up any dirt or dust. “If you want to go somewhere else, I can-,”

“No no, this is perfect,” you smile, but not fully convincing Chris from how minimal you talked on the ride over.

“You’re not just sparing my feelings are you?” His suspicious expression and tilted head has you giggling as you take a sip of your water, feeling a bit more relaxed.

“No I just…after seeing your ex I guess I started wondering….”

“About what?”

“…your intentions,” you reveal, more focused on bending your straw back and forth rather than meeting his eyes that were probably peering at you like you were crazy bringing up the ‘what are we?’ conversation so early. “And where you wanted this to go?”

“Well this definitely isn’t a rebound if that’s what you’re thinking,” he answers sipping from his lemonade. Yes, you were thinking that. Had been since you guys started talking in fact. Then with him grabbing your hand at the table in front of Kelly, you didn’t know if the action was sincere or you just being a pawn in the midst of their game of who could make the other more jealous.

“So you think you’re completely moved on from her? And ready to date again?”

“I’ll be honest, when we first met I was still hurt and sulking as you could tell,” he briefly chuckles, “but the more we talked and hung out, I got over it and wanted to move on with someone who made me happy. Someone like you.”

Feeling him slide closer placing his hand on top of yours, your entire body heats up as his stubbled face feels like it’s mere inches from yours.

“So to answer your question, yes I’m ready and if it’s okay with you, I want to see how far this goes.”

Your soft smile as you close the remaining gap connecting your peach flavored lips with his makes him grin against your mouth happily accepting your answer. “I’ll take that as a yes, but if it’s not this is the greatest rejection I’ve ever gotten,” he speaks between pecks and occasional lip bites.

“You’re such a dork.”

His palm cradles the side of your face, thumb carefully gliding against your cheek and noses gently bumping each other not caring if he had to breathe. He just wanted to stay pressed to you.

A bright light shining in his eye, though, momentarily interrupts your intimate moment nearly making him groan out in annoyance how tonight just wasn’t the night for privacy.

“Alright guys I know you’re probably just enjoying your date, but if you’re gonna do that you gotta go back to your roo- oh, hey champ!,” the bulky security guard greets finally turning off his handheld light. “Insane game tonight.”

“Thanks,” Chris sighs partially shielding you as he tried to discreetly wipe around his mouth for any traces of your lip balm.

“Well you two have a nice night, but remember no extra curriculars out in the open if you catch my drift.”

“Got it. Goodnight sir.” He sends the guard off with a small wave before you’re both laughing at the night you’ve had and your forehead falls to his shoulder.

“Next date, I’m taking you out the country.”

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[little-writings]

can i request a fanfic where mc is a veterinarian with her own clinic and the reason she meets jumin is because of elizabeth needing a checkup!

Oh my goodness absolutely! This was actually so fun to write! 

Anyhow, I hope you have an amazing day and enjoy!

———————————————————————————————————–

“How long has it been since Elizabeth 3rd has been to the vet?” V asked, grinning fondly as the snowy-white cat pressed against his legs, a purr beginning to rumble in her throat.  

“She doesn’t need to see a vet. She’s in perfect health.” Jumin remarked, fiddling with the cuffs of his sleeves absentmindedly. “I have a chef prepare her a perfectly figured diet, one of the most  accalimed groomers brush her coat once a week, and-”  

“They’re supposed to get examined yearly.”  

“Who are?”  

V scoffed. “Cats, dogs, and any other animal you could call a pet.”  

“I’ll see about having a house veterinarian come by.”  

“Well, I’ve actually been hearing quite a bit about a certain veterinarian. I think you’d like them.”  

“Are they on call?”  

“No, they have a well-established practice downtown.”  

“Then I’m not interested.” Jumin stated matter-of-factly. “Taking Elizabeth 3rd outside presents too many risks. She could get hurt, lost or both – or even worse. I would never forgive myself if that were to happen.”  

V’s brows furrowed behind his tinted frames. “They’re apparently one of the best in the country. I hear there’s not a pet they don’t get along with.”  

“I would hope so, being a professional. That doesn’t change the fact that it’s an on-site practice. Any potential danger to Elizabeth 3rd isn’t worth it.”  

“Do you really think I’d recommend something that could hurt Elizabeth 3rd?”  

Jumin jerked his head to V and found himself stumbling over his words, cornered by his own stubborn mind. “What? No, I ah – no of course not.”  

The ends of V’s lips curled up and he knelt down to scratch Elizabeth behind the ears, her quiet purring volume erupting to that of a lawnmower.  

“Then give them a try.”  

Jumin wrinkled his nose. “Why are you so adamant?”  

“Because,” V simpered. “I think you’d like them.”  

Jumin didn’t have to ask the next question for V to know what he was wondering.  

“They’re professional and very devoted to their work,” He rose to his feet and rummaged through his jacket, snagging a crisp, clean card from his pocket. He gave it to Jumin who eyed it curiously.  

“In fact, they remind me of you.”  

Jumin paused. Pawprints bordered the card alongside hearts and a phone number he supposed he had no choice but to call at this point. He hardly saw V enough these days, the last thing he wanted to do was disappoint him.  

“I’ll… I’ll think about it.”  

And so, later that evening, he found himself calling.  

“Loving Paws Animal Hospital, how can I help you?” The voice on the other line was sickeningly sweet and welcoming, as though dipped in honey and soaked in sugar.  

Jumin paused and bit the inside of his cheek, swallowing his pride. ”Yes, I’d like to speak to your lead veterinarian?”  

“MC? They’re currently with a client at the moment, but I’d be more than happy to transfer you to their voicemail. Have we seen the pet before?”  

“No. No one has.”  

The secretary must’ve been left at a loss at the stern tone and proclamation, but she did her best regardless against the statue that was Jumin Han.

“So, it’s a new pet?”  

“No.”

“Then… you’re a new client?”  

“Yes. Potentially.”  

Jumin heard an attempt at a stifled snicker and the hospital gained a mental strike in his mind.  

“Okay well, I’ll just go ahead and transfer you to MC’s voicemail. You have a wonderful day, sir!”

That sugary sweetness returned once more, perhaps even more high-pitched than it had been. There was a pause on the other line before your voicemail began. Your voice, in comparison, was light, airy. Jumin could only think of a pleasant song when listening to it – something he found himself falling into.

“Hi this is MC, I can’t get to the phone right now but if you’ll leave a message I’ll do my best to get back to you as soon as I can!”

Despite all the preparedness Jumin thought he might’ve had, he still managed to stumble the second that alerting sound went off.

“I-I ah yes – my name is Jumin Han, and I was considering setting up an appointment for my cat, Elizbeth 3rd. It’s just for an annual exam, though I don’t even think she really needs it she’s in pristine-”

Jumin realized he was rambling and cleared his throat sheepishly.

“Anyways, I was hoping I could ask you some questions before making a final decision. If you would call me back, it’d be appreciated. Thank you.”

Jumin let out a deep sigh and relented to the horrible process of waiting.

You returned the phone call in the evening when the warm oranges, purples, and slightest hues of a deep, murky blue were settling in and spreading overhead. Jumin answered in an instant.

“Hi! Is this Mr. Han?” Your voice was even softer beyond a recorded message. You sounded sweet, but just the tiniest bit tired.

“Yes. MC, isn’t it? I’ve heard many things about you.”

You chuckled. “Good things I hope.”

A smile tugged at Jumin’s face. “Good things only. It has set my expectations high.”

“Well, I’d be delighted to meet those expectations, Mr. Han. Now, what can I do for your Elizabeth 3rd?”

“Technically speaking, there is nothing that’s necessary. Elizabeth 3rd is perfectly taken care of. I simply can’t imagine any problems arising for such a creature.”

“And what kind of perfect creature is she?”

“She is a Persian.”

You thought for a moment, and Jumin could hear a pen tapping against a desk. “Persian cats can have some complications, even if they’re in otherwise perfect living conditions. Unfortunately, it just comes with the breed.”

A sudden twisting of knots appeared in Jumin’s stomach. He tensed. “Such as…?”

“Well, you know their cute little smushed faces? Like pugs their nasal passages are shorter and more susceptible to their environments.”

Jumin opened his mouth to speak, but you continued on like a textbook’s worth of knowledge had just been released.

“And Persians specifically are prone to polycystic kidney disease, and you have to watch out for that because if ignored when they reach eight or nine years old they could suddenly collapse and die-”

You stopped yourself. You might’ve not needed to jump to that immediate conclusion.

“But I uh – it is also perfectly possible that Elizabeth 3rd is in a completely healthy state!”

Jumin was now staring wide-eyed at Elizabeth 3rd who sat uncaringly in the center of the living room. She was grooming herself and only her tail was lightly swaying from side to side across the carpet. She appeared almost serene.

‘They could suddenly collapse and die.”

A pit crumpled in Jumin’s insides.

“When’s the soonest I can come in?”

You laughed nervously. There was a clicking of a computer mouse and a brief moment of silence where you glanced through the schedule. “I can squeeze you in tomorrow afternoon?”

“I’ll be there.”

“Mr. Han… are you okay?”

Jumin looked once more at Elizabeth 3rd who now raised her head to meet him. She closed and opened her eyes slowly, mewing.

“I will be when I know Elizabeth 3rd is okay.”

You sighed. “It sounds like Elizabeth 3rd has a very devoted pet parent. She is lucky to have you Mr. Han.”

“I am lucky to have her.”

The call ended soon after with you meekly attempting to assuage his fears, and Jumin beginning to pace about Elizabeth like any cause for concern he’d already miss would simply leap out for a dramatic entrance.

Jumin could now hardly wait for the appointment he considered pointless just hours ago.

V may or may not have received multiple texts of concerns throughout the night. The internet truly did not help the situation.

‘I read online that Persians with blue eyes can have something called Congenital ankyloblepharon. While the website says it’s not deadly, another said it’s linked to a fatal disease.’

‘Because of Elizabeth’s small nasal passage, a website is now telling me Elizabeth will more than likely develop a heart condition. Elizabeth 3rd does not deserve this.’

V had begged him to just wait until tomorrow and Jumin reluctantly agreed.

When the appointment finally arrived, Jumin had made sure Elizabeth would only travel in the best his wealth could provide. However, diamond-encrusted cat carriers apparently took a great deal of time to create, so a polyester and mesh carrier would have to do – lined with sherpa, of course, and filled with her favorite toys.

While Jumin had been anxious and fidgety the entire drive, Elizabeth 3rd was curious, excited even. When Elizabeth was pawing at the mesh lining to peek closer at the car window Jumin was tugging at his sleeves and holding his breath. Even Driver Kim took notice, though his support did little to ease his worries.

He only felt a little ease when he finally arrived at the clinic. The secretary had been stunned at the famous heir’s arrival, but quickly recognized his voice. Her surprise then shifted to amusement, a sly smile stretched across her face.

“Hello Mr. Han! How’re you doing today?”

Jumin furrowed his brow, glancing away. “I am… anticipating my meeting with MC.”

“Stressed for the little lady?” The secretary pointed with her pen to Elizabeth 3rd, now rolled over on her back and playing with one of her toys. This was easily one of her favorite days already.

“Very much so.” Jumin answered.

“We’ll be sure to get you in quick then.”

Jumin nodded hurriedly, and sat down. When his name was called he nearly tripped from how quickly he shot up. It was a… difficult day for maintaining composure.

He ran his fingers through his hair, took a deep breath, and then proceeded on through the hall where you waited in the consulting room.

He hadn’t quite known what he’d expected when he saw you, but he still found himself without words, if only for a second. Your face was kind, far more than the ones he’d known throughout his life with eyes that offered a sense of comfort to soften the stress so clearly brimming at the surface.

“Hi Mr. Han.” You set a ginger hand on Jumin’s shoulder, offering a warm smile. “I heard you’re feeling a little concerned for Elizabeth 3rd?”

“That is an understatement.”

You folded your lips in thought, drawing your hand away only to lightly clap, determined. “Well I’ve never met an animal I can’t help, and I don’t intend to stop now.”

A bit of the weight dropped from Jumin’s chest. You tapped against the examination table – a heavy counter in the center of the room with a smooth, thick surface.

The room itself was decorated with pictures of animals surrounded by varying degrees of puns. The one the most caught Jumin’s eye was a photo of a cat, tail tucked just over its paws and a sweet expression beneath the words, ‘you’re purrfect.’

He wondered if you chose that one personally. He hoped so.

Jumin unzipped the carrier atop the counter for Elizabeth 3rd to poke out. She only hesitated for a moment before stepping out to greet your hand, fingers outstretched for her to curiously sniff. You beamed at the very sight of her, leaning down as she dipped her head against your hand, eager to be pet.

“Hello, Ms. Elizabeth! Aren’t you beautiful?” You scratched her cheek and her purring began, akin to a lawnmower. “She’s so sweet!”

Jumin watched as you examined her, flashing a light in her eyes and ears, squeezing her tummy for any masses, and flexing her legs for achy joints. Her temperature was normal, not even a rapid heart rate.

“Now I don’t want to stress her out on her first visit but I recommend we do an ultrasound,” You had remarked, rubbing her belly in one of the rare opportunities that a cat not only tolerated such an action but enjoyed it. Elizabeth 3rd was a rare creature indeed. “It’s just to make sure she doesn’t have anything bad developing in her kidneys.” 

“Do you expect there to be anything?” 

Elizabeth pawed playfully at your fingers, pulling them close to rub her cheeks against them when you relented. You had to draw your gaze back to Jumin to keep yourself from becoming distracted. It was rare to see Elizabeth 3rd warming up to someone so quickly. “Do I?” 

You paused, and then laughed. “Of course you’re asking me, I’m sorry! I don’t know what got into me – she’s just such a cutie! But ah – no I don’t. Elizabeth 3rd is as close to perfect as it gets. You weren’t kidding when you said how well she’s taken care of.” 

“She means the world to me.” Jumin hummed, Elizabeth tipping her head to see him and meowing. She almost appeared to smile when he scratched just beneath her chin. 

“May I ask how you found her?” 

Jumin hesitated, remembering the golden hair and slender hands that once held Elizabeth. It brought a pang. 

“She was a gift from someone dear.” 

You could see Jumin’s sadness so easily. You could only make your best effort to soften the hurt. “They must’ve known you two would be perfect for each other.” 

Jumin lifted his head to look up at you, and you smiled. It was gentle, and at that moment, brighter than the very sun. You wore your heart on your sleeve, and it was beautiful. He grinned, if only gently. “Thank you.” 

“Just being honest.” 

The ultrasound was an experience. Jumin thought you had to be lying or attempting a cruel joke when you brought the clippers. There was simply no way you truly could want to ruin Elizabeth’s coat! 

You had promised only the ‘teeny-tiniest’ area would be shaved, but you also promised it’d be cute. Jumin couldn’t completely disagree. 

You had him hold her still during the ordeal, his hands folded over her front legs and keeping her close as you carefully ran the clippers over her stomach. Elizabeth simply rubbed her head against Jumin’s suit. 

“See! Look at that little pink tummy!” You pointed to the now thin white hairs where just between the faintest hints of skin could be spotted. You encouraged Jumin to run his hand over and it was… oddly soft if admittedly strange. 

“There’s no way you don’t think that’s adorable.” You exclaimed. 

“It’s not not adorable. 

That made you laugh. 

The procedure itself was quick and easy. The probe found no problems within Elizabeth’s kidneys and the only issue that arose was Elizabeth 3rd squeaking in surprise at the cold gel spread over her stomach. 

“I’m sorry sweetie, I’ll get this chilly stuff off you quick, okay?” 

You made plenty of little comments like those to Elizabeth 3rd. While many others would hardly regard something as minuscule you took every effort to make Elizabeth 3rd comfortable. Jumin noticed each and every time. You were doting. 

Just as you said, you wiped her clean, only peppering her in pets all over her belly and sides as she could rollover. 

“She is the picture of health, Mr. Han. The only thing I’d recommend is we make these ultrasounds yearly to keep an eye on her – and so I can see her again.” 

Jumin chuckled. “I take it she’s swept you off your feet?” 

“Like she’s my prince charming.” You snickered. “I’m a sucker for pretty kitties.” 

“I’m glad someone else can appreciate Elizabeth 3rd for her perfection.” 

You nodded. “I also appreciate the owner that’s given her the chance to flourish so much.” 

There was a different type of pang in his chest and the tiniest bit of red flickered upon Jumin’s cheeks. Either you didn’t notice, or you didn’t say anything. 

But you smiled. 

“I ah – I might need to bring her in again sooner than her next yearly. I’ve been researching and read of other conditions in her breed that I’d like to look into.” 

You caught on quick. “Right, and we wouldn’t want to overwhelm Elizabeth 3rd with so much on her first visit! It might be best to stretch these concerns over multiple appointments just so we can do the best job possible for her.” 

“And you can teach me what to look out for and how to find them.” Jumin settled Elizabeth 3rd back in her carrier, pawing at you through the mesh, pink pads just barely peeking through. 

“Of course! And you are more than welcome to call! In fact…” 

You tore off a piece of paper from your notes, scribbling quickly before giving it to him. “Here is my personal phone number, for any questions you may have.” 

Jumin smirked and tucked it away in his pocket. “I expect I could find quite a few until our next appointment.” 

You clicked your pen, simpering. “I’ll be patiently waiting, Mr. Han.” 

“Jumin is fine.” He stretched out his hand, palm open. “In fact, allow me to properly introduce myself – we weren’t given the proper chance. I’m Jumin Han. It is a pleasure to meet you.” 

Warmth reached your cheeks, but you didn’t object, returning the gesture with a firm grip. “MC. The pleasure is all mine. I really do look forward to seeing you again, Jumin.” 

It was rare Jumin could say the same, but for once he did, he truly, truly did. 

“As do I.” 

[fleckcmscott]

Bewitching Hour

Summary: October has been a blissfully busy month. With Halloween around the corner, Arthur and Y/N have some planning to do.

Warnings: Swearing

Words: 4,665

A/N: Special thanks to @hhandley80​ for this request! You've been so supportive and sweet. I truly appreciate you and hope you enjoy it!

On a side note, my oneshots will be more sporadic. I'm still writing but life has been life. Also, I've finished the first draft of another multi-chapter featuring Arthur and Y/N. It's going to take time to rewrite the subsequent drafts and edit, edit, edit. The chapters will go up once the story is ready. Thanks for your patience and support! 🙂 I heart you all!

If you have any thoughts or questions, please comment, feel free to message me, or send me an ask! 

Arthur's suggestion that they make plans to celebrate Halloween should not have been a surprise. He loved starting traditions with Y/N, and she prized adopting them with him. "It's been awhile," he'd said as they'd walked arm-in-arm to the laundromat. "I think it'd be nice."

Holidays had been a source of merriment most of her life. The beauty of red and green decorations at Christmas. Turkey and mashed potatoes at Thanksgiving. An egg hunt and chocolate rabbit at Easter. The togetherness of family during them all.

Halloween, though, wasn't a favorite.

As a child, she'd had fun trick-or-treating, riding her bike from house to far-flung house. And she hadn't minded escorting her little sister as a teenager. Y/N's homemade witch costume had been passed down. She could still recall the sleekness of the ribbon between her fingers as she'd secured the pointed hat under Mabel's chin.

But the magic had fallen away. When married to Jeff, she'd had to attend his boss's annual party. After receiving an apologetic shrug and kiss, she'd be relegated to hanging out with the other wives. They'd included her in their recipe swaps, in their exchanges of mild gossip. Her natural friendliness made chit-chat easy, far easier than having a good time. Those evenings had been spent nursing a glass of wine and willing the clock to go faster.

During the period she'd cared for her father, she'd tried to hand out candy. She liked being a good neighbor and imparting kindness in the form of bite-sized sweets. As his health had declined, the porch light had gone dark. Random rings of the doorbell would result in shouting and swearing. Repeated attempts to explain the door's lock wasn't broken. Festivity would transform into drudgery. It hadn't been worth the trouble. Instead, she'd watched terrible TV specials while her thoughts wandered to a future far from Boonville. A future she'd doubted would ever be.

"I don't know if it's your thing," Arthur had continued, bringing her back to the present. "But you might enjoy it with me." The response he longed for was evident in the worrying of his pocket, outlines of his knuckles visible through the tan cloth.

Everything they'd experienced together had soothed the sting of those wasted years. The hesitancy lurking in her was silly. Unwelcome. Less than either of them deserved. She'd met his keen eyes and half-smile. The sudden mental image of him dressed as a cowboy or pirate, eyepatch and all, prompted a laugh. Convinced her as she dug out her dry-cleaning stub. "It isn't my thing," she'd said. "But you are."

Relief had relaxed his wrinkles, save for his crows feet, which had deepened as he'd returned her happy expression. A slender arm wrapped around her waist, drew her against his solid frame. Once the clerk disappeared through the swinging doors to retrieve their clothes, Arthur grasped her chin and kissed her. The tender explorations were soon sloppy, and she'd giggled, his enthusiasm becoming her own. Their noses had met, his lashes resting on his wide cheekbones. "I think you're the sweetest treat, Mrs. Fleck."

Currently, Donahue's Department Store, Gotham's number one retail emporium (if the ads were to be believed), was bustling with last-minute shoppers. Weary mothers escorted their babbling children through the aisles. Clerks swapped out displays for the changing blue light specials. Lines went for yards. Patricia and Y/N sought refuge at a corner table in the café on the top floor. The warm glow from the pendant lamps provided a relaxed ambience, one that matched the hot cider and pumpkin spice cake they were savoring.

"I've got my grandson on Sunday," Patricia said between bites. "My daughter's going to a party with a medical records tech from Gotham General. Met him when she missed the bus. They split a cab and hit it off." Chuckling, she lifted her mug. "Speaking of, how's married life been so far?"

Memories of the past week quickened Y/N's heart, until she thought it might stop. How Arthur had gripped her replacement Social Security card, just to read her new name. The way he'd grab her for a twirl whenever they were in the kitchen. The reverence in his gaze when they'd lay together after sex, a look that both thrilled and made her blush. "The bills for his medication and appointments will no longer make us cringe," she deadpanned. She lowered her fork. "When we met, I was kind of blindsided - I'm not the type to fall in love quickly." The corners of her lips tugged up. "Being married to Arthur feels like a habit. A habit I should have learned twenty years ago."

"I'm glad you found each other." Patricia reached across the light brown table and covered Y/N's hand, gave it a squeeze. Then she wiped frosting from her mouth and nodded in the direction of the escalator. "Now let's find a costume that'll drive him nuts."

Beyond the colorful cosmetics and pungent perfume counters, they sorted through racks of vinyl smocks and plastic masks. Pop culture icons and princesses. Vampires and spooks. Knockoffs of classic movie monsters. Most were poorly made and decidedly uninteresting. Y/N pawed through accessories in a nearby basket, a cigar here, a patched hat there. "How about a hobo? I could steal Arthur's tie."

"This was his idea. Give him something a little exciting." After a roll of Y/N's eyes, Patricia held out a plastic display bag. "Found it."

The white font on its blue label declared she should "Create a unique look!" A woman in a leopard-print leotard and bow-tie wore black cat ears and a tail, the only two items included in the set. Y/N's nose wrinkled. "I don't think so, Patricia." She rummaged through another bin and examined a hockey mask. "I don't show a lot of skin."

"You show Arthur." Patricia ignored Y/N's glare, continuing to shove it at her. "Every man loves a woman dressed as a cat. Our next lunch is on me if I'm wrong."

Patricia could be relentless, but Y/N had to admit she was usually right. She arched a brow as she eyed the costume. Maybe she could find a solid body suit instead of animal print. The kit was only $2.98. And her friend had made it a challenge. "You're on. But I'm not wearing a bow-tie." She crossed her arms across her chest and tapped her mouth. "Your turn. Would Robert like you as a French maid or a go-go dancer?"

~~~~~

It was a busy season for performers. Arthur remembered HaHa's talent agency being booked solid for October by the end of August. Myriad functions at nursing homes, parties, and children's organizations took place throughout the city. Amusement Mile had a series of special events, allowing Arthur to work extra hours before the slowness of winter dragged in. Once the holiday was over, he'd buy make-up and props on clearance.

He'd always assumed he would like Halloween - if he'd had the chance to celebrate it properly. It was about connection, something he'd never managed. The customs gave him a pretense, a template to meet people, rather than leaving him wondering how to go about it. Provided a hiding place for his seeming inability to act normal.

Recollections of the day were few but vivid. When he'd been around eight, there'd been a party at school. The teacher had made brownies and given the students a half-hour respite from lessons. (A welcome relief, since he wasn't very good at most of them.) But he hadn't had a costume. Hadn't known how to reply when the other kids asked where it was. Not wanting to be left out, he'd pocketed a watercolor pallet and sneaked to the bathroom.

The teacher (he wished he could remember her name) had walked in as he'd smeared green and blue on his face, a pathetic attempt at a turtle. Fear of punishment had caused his laughter. But her kindness as she knelt, wiped away tears and pigment with a scratchy, brown paper towel, had calmed him. "Wait here," she'd instructed. It had taken all his courage not to run home.

After some minutes, she'd returned, an old white sheet in one hand, black marker and pair of scissors in the other. "The nurse won't miss this." She'd traced eyeholes, helped him cut them out. She'd asked questions. About his mother and what it was like at home. Questions he was at a loss for how to answer. Finally, she'd draped the cloth over his head. "There," she'd declared. "Gotham Elementary has its own ghost."

Even as he'd gotten taller and the sheet no longer went beyond his knees, that costume had remained his go-to. He'd venture out to the rest of his building, knocking on paint-chipped doors and pushing broken buzzers. Having learned to stay away from doors that yelling or funny smells emanated from, he hadn't gotten a lot of candy. What he had collected he'd shared with Penny. The wax lips became a free toy. He wasn't sure his memory of startling his mother and being tickled until he couldn't breathe was real or imagined.

At twelve, he was told he was too old to go trick-or-treating. He'd starting scrounging for change to buy hard candies at Helm's Pharmacy. They weren't particularly appetizing, but they'd been what he could afford. Only a few kids rang, a number that dwindled further every year. Most neighbors kept their distance, likely aware he was troubled. Cinnamon discs and butterscotch drops had loitered around the apartment for months. He'd sucked on them in an attempt to cut down on his smoking, just to save money. It hadn't worked.

Y/N hadn't spoken about the holiday, not the way she had other special occasions. At first, he'd thought it had slipped her mind. Work, planning their honeymoon, completing the red tape required to meld all aspects of their lives had taken up much of their time. But, given her reluctance to talk in detail about her past heartache, he'd come to assume her Halloweens had been unpleasant. He was certain he could change that.

Sitting on the dingy, dark green plastic seat of the train car, he giggled to himself, chest puffing up as he straightened. They'd been man and wife for eight whole days. Movies and songs said love was supposed to be somewhere between serendipitous and fated. A happy accident that was meant to be. Lying awake at night, he would find himself wondering where they were on that scale. If the emotions swirling through him - the excitement of belonging, the fear of fucking up - were what every newlywed felt. Then Y/N would snuggle closer in her sleep, murmur nonsense into his skin, and for a few minutes he'd be at peace.

Years had been spent trying to figure out who he was. Trying to find an identity, his role within the world. While he was still searching, it had been far easier to become accustomed to the role of "husband" than he'd dreamed.

Teaching his wife about events across the city had been a delight. Gotham Village's Annual Costume Extravaganza was a parade that went all the way to Gotham Square. He'd participated a couple of times, never formally registering but slipping into the clown section. It had been exhilarating. Had allowed him to pretend, for a little while, that he was being seen. That the crowds lining the sidewalks were cheering for him. Signs for extravagant balls were plastered on billboards and lampposts throughout the streets; he'd have gladly attended and shown her off. A haunted house was being held in a building in his old neighborhood, a fundraiser for the orphanage. He hadn't brought that up.

In the end, once he'd explained trick-or-treaters went from apartment to apartment, they'd decided on a cozy evening at home. The details had been left to her. Whatever she'd plan, he'd love it. He wondered what she'd disguise herself as. Would she be a sexy devil or nurse, like he'd seen on a sit-com? The notion sparked a fire in his cheeks.

Given how busy he'd be, he'd stay dressed as plain, old Carnival. Part of him regretted accepting two gigs, especially on a Sunday. He would have preferred her company. But he wanted to put the money towards the wedding band he'd put on layaway. (Even though they had one account, he wasn't going to let her chip in for it.) He should already be wearing it for all of Gotham to see.

The lurch of the subway prompted him to rise and grasp the pole grip. His stance widened as it came to a halt, knees bending with the instinct of a man who'd ridden public transportation since he was a boy. As soon as the graffiti-covered doors parted, he stepped out onto the platform and ascended the stairs, eager to share his new insurance information with Dr. Ludlow.

~~~~~

Scratchy violins and the hum of a theremin. Shrill shrieks and cracks of thunder. A cackle resounded, then a pipe organ, playing a melody in a minor key.

There was no doubt about it. Halloween spirit had saturated 4A.

NCB's Movie Marathon Mayhem had begun at 10:00 AM. Y/N had had it on since getting out of the shower, hoping to catch a horror classic while she decorated the apartment and prepared Bloody Mary mix. As she hung cotton batting between the television's rabbit ears, creating a long, narrow spider-web, she realized they were only playing cheesy B-movies. Giant insects threatening buildings. Science experiments gone wrong. Alien invasions. Oh well. At least she wouldn't have to pay much attention to get the gist of the plots.

The orange plastic platter, black bats along its edges, had been an impulse buy. She thought its array of sugary skeletons, candy bracelets, and Jolly Jack chocolate bars would be well received. But having seen only one or two kids in the lobby, she had no idea how many children lived in their building. She hoped she'd bought enough.

The cardstock window decorations she'd found were festive and matched Arthur's sweet nature. One portrayed a warted, green witch flying on a broom past a full moon. On the other, a ghost and mouse shared a pillowcase of candy and wished a "Happy Halloween." She held the tape dispenser between her teeth as she stuck them to their white front door.

Just then, the elevator dinged. Glancing to her left, she saw Arthur stroll down the cheerfully lit hallway. Buoyant expression on him, despite his white, blue, and red make-up being streaked from sweat. Striped prop bag on his shoulder and carved pumpkin cradled in his arms. "The store owner was going to throw it out," he explained with a half hug. "But he let me have it as a tip."

Classic, triangular eyes evoked the annual carving contest her parents had taken part of back home. Her father had been well-known in the community, being the town's only doctor. Entering the competition had been expected. They'd never won but enjoyed it all the same. Y/N had picked out the patterns and scooped out the squash's slimy innards. Her mother had baked the seeds. Peals of their laughter echoed in her ears, and a lump formed in her throat.

She swallowed hard against it. Dammit, Y/N. Get it together. This was supposed to be a special night for Arthur and her. She needed to distract herself. One of his curls peeked out from under his bald-cap and green wig. She twirled a strand around her finger. "With that toothy grin, it just might be your twin," she said. He pecked her temple, the kiss sticky from greasepaint. She lit the half-melted candles using his red lighter and put the jack-o-lantern just outside their door.

While he freshened his paint in the bedroom, she slinked into the bathroom to change. Arthur's and her routines were closely aligned; keeping her costume hidden had not been easy. The headband holding the furry cat ears was quite stiff, its teeth a tad sharp on her scalp. Once it was in place, she hid it under her hair. The lint on her form-fitting stretch top and leggings reminded her why she rarely wore all black. She retrieved her brown eyeliner from the nearby shelf and started in on her whiskers.

Arthur's footsteps neared, heavy due to his clown shoes, and Y/N turned to lean back on the sink. His thin lips parted as he scanned her body, forehead furrowed in pleasant surprise. His reaction planted a seed of bliss in her belly, one that bloomed every second they regarded each other. The lunch she'd have to spring for was well worth the pink shells of his ears. Eventually, she held out the fluffy, wired tail and a safety pin. "Would you pin this just below my waistband?"

Fingers grazing hers, he took it and sat on the toilet lid. He cupped her hips and pulled her closer, positioned her until the dampness of his breath hit a bare sliver of her back. "Hold still," he murmured, his voice sending a tingle through her. At his gentle ministrations, the spandex of her leggings felt snugger. "Did you- Did you read my journal?"

A faint click of metal as the pin closed. "No." She colored the tip of her nose, frowned at how lackluster the shade was. "I'd never do that. Even if I'm dying for a preview of your material. Why?"

"No reason." A soft huff, his shy smile clear in his answer. "I have an idea." He handed her a washcloth and hurried out of the room. She was patting her face dry when he returned, a fine tipped brush and pot of black greasepaint in his hand. "This'll look better."

Her brow arched. She'd only had her make-up done once; Patricia had invited her when they'd first met. Such an outing was not her preference, but Y/N had accepted, being new in town and wanting to learn about her colleague. There'd been champagne at the counter, which she'd sipped until she'd spent too much on eyeshadow and apricot scrub. The next morning, she'd put the products and a note on Patricia's desk: "I'll never forgive you. Thanks!"

The heat radiating from Arthur prompted her to close the gap between them. She craned her neck towards him, slid her palms to his yellow vest until she held him just below his ribs. His forefinger curled under her chin, lifted it slightly and angled it to the right. The cool, wet brush met her fevered skin. The dusty smell of the greasepaint blended with a whiff of stale cigarette smoke and traces of his sweat. She licked her lips.

The vibration of his chuckle was felt before heard. "I really like your costume," he said lowly. Two more ticklish caresses of the bristles on the apple of her cheek. "If you're not careful, I might werewolf and go wild."

She stretched closer to him, the fervor in his tone going straight to her center. Though he'd been growing bolder, his cocky side wasn't often revealed. She wanted it, thirsted to see more of the wild horse kicking inside him. Her touch ran over his chest, until she dipped under his black suspenders and pulled. "Are you going to gobble me up?"

Teasing strokes on her nose. "Maybe." Then his thumb whispered along her jaw and guided her face upwards. His kiss was supple, slow, a drag of his mouth as his tongue sought entry. She yielded, the simmer of anticipation bringing her to her toes. He groaned deeply and palmed her thigh, then fondled the curve of her rear-

The ding-dong of the doorbell halted them. He lifted his head and laughed, gaze sparkling. "I got paint on you."

She twisted in his arms and looked in the mirror. The whiskers caught her eye, embellished at the ends with dainty curlicues - his skill never ceased to impress her. Red brightened her lips and streaks of white were on her cheek. "It's all right. They'll just know I've been necking with a clown."

~~~~~

The sound of the bell continued. Over and over and over. More than it ever had in Otisburg. There were mummies, ghosts, a couple of skeletons. A superhero proudly displayed his red cape and blue tights, and a kid in her karate robe went on about her yellow belt. A tiny clown, too young to walk, was brought by her sister. As Arthur made funny faces, the baby cooed and tried to take his red, foam nose. Arthur parted with it gladly.

Only one member of the Wayne family appeared, slicked back hair and pompous pout making the disguise complete. The man accompanying the boy introduced himself as their upstairs neighbor and shook their hands. After one look at Y/N, he nudged Arthur's bicep. "So, she's the one keeping half the building up at night. Good on you, pal." Arthur blinked in confusion as she ushered the guy away, red-faced and muttering about his nerve.

Arthur was overly generous, giving out fistfuls of sweets while taking a few extra seconds to gather his nerves and compliment the costumes he liked best. It felt good to interact with strangers without constantly second guessing himself. Y/N would rub his arm or kiss his shoulder and tell him what a great job he was doing. "Kids are easy," he said, refilling the candy dish. But he reveled in her praises, anyway. And the knowledge that meeting the neighbors was going well.

Clean-up required little effort. The jack-o-lantern sat on their kitchen table, flames flickering as the wicks burned away. The door decor was packed safely for use next year. His plaid blazer was slung over the back of a dining chair and his wig was off. Y/N's decision to leave her whiskers on pleased him - she made a damn sexy cat. He pocketed the last few pieces of candy to snack on during the remainder of the evening.

The Sunday Night Special Presentation she'd picked out, a made-for-TV horror movie, began at 9:00 PM on GBC. Most of its airtime was punctuated by her tipsy snickers and legal wisecracks, which was typical when they watched something stupid. Yet, as the show went on, she grew quieter, barely speaking between sips of her third cocktail. As they sat on the sofa, her posture stiffened. Forearms crossed over her breasts. Her nails dug into her upper arm.

The change started two-thirds of the way into the show, when the plot about a doll running amok twisted into a story about a professional woman trying to assert herself against the demands of her mother. Against the expectations of availability. To fight for the simplicity of having dinner and peace and quiet. It resonated with him, which felt weird. Especially when the film cut to black, the implication being the mother would meet a violent end at the hands of her possessed daughter.

A cheerful jingle came on. Puerto Rico was a direct flight from Gotham Airport, it advertised, a flight that lasted "two hours and fifteen tropical minutes." They should get out while the weather was still good. The juxtaposition of mood broke him out of his ponderings. He flicked off the blaring television with the remote. Then he heard Y/N sniffling.

She set her glass on the coffee table, a slight tremble in her hand. "I need some air," she whispered as she rose, then went out onto the fire escape.

Arthur rubbed his thigh and pressed his lips together. He wasn't used to seeing her cry. Not from sadness. Should he follow her? Give her time? Both had worked previously, depending on the situation. But he wasn't sure what had upset her, what situation they were in now.

Exhaling sharply, he grabbed her glass and dumped the rest of the drink down the kitchen sink. Rinsed their dinner plates and put the slow cooker in the fridge. When he'd finished making decaf coffee ten minutes later, she still hadn't returned. He ambled towards the ajar glass door and stepped out.

Moonlight outlined her shapely figure and reflected off her hair, the silver a contrast to the orange glow of the streetlamps illuminating her face. Her stare seemed fixated on the street below. He followed it to see a group of ghouls and goblins spraying shaving cream on a shop window. A couple, one he'd see occasionally when out for a cigarette, walked down the sidewalk. A woman was half-carrying a drunk man towards a bus stop.

Upon clearing her throat, Y/N spoke. "I may not look like it, but I had a great time with you tonight. The movie just got to me." Relieved, Arthur sidled next to her, wrapped his arm about her back. Her head fell to his shoulder and she smoothed her hand over his stomach. "I don't mean to hide from you. Someday you'll know the details of my earlier life." She scoffed. "When I'm ready to think about them." He entwined their fingers and kissed her hairline, avoiding the wired tips of her cat ears.

Shivering, she took a shaky breath. "There are no skeletons in my closet. Only disappointments." Her voice cracked as she beamed at him, cupped his cheek, and pressed her face to his. "Knowing I'd get to have you would have made those years so much easier."

He held her tightly, massaging between her shoulders. She'd been speaking about herself, but he couldn't help thinking it was about him, too. His years with Penny. His stints in Arkham. The loneliness, the isolation, the endless anger and yearning to be more than a speck of dirt no one cared for. His journal was full of questions about where the hell his one and only was. If he'd known she'd be real, tangible instead of a figment, would existence have hurt less?

Wincing, he tried to push through those thoughts. To focus on her instead of himself. What mattered was that Y/N needed him. Perhaps a joke would cheer her. "I was thinking the other night of how easy it is to smile around you," he said. "You tickle my funny bone." Amusement bubbled in her throat, music to his ears. She released a contented sigh and nuzzled the crook of his neck.

Peaceful stillness ensued as the minutes passed. Though the breeze was chill, goosebumps forming on his pale skin, her affection kept his heart warm. His fingertips rubbed circles into her lower back, and she offered a pleasured hum. Across the way, footsteps pounded. He glanced to see a kid darting up the street, plastic pumpkin pail in tow. The boy's scream was filled with boundless energy: "Happy Halloween, Gotham!"

Snorting, Y/N took Arthur's hand and led him inside. The cheap tail she wore bounced with every exaggerated swivel of her hips. "I've behaved all evening, which your werewolf comment made extraordinarily difficult." She looped her arms around him and flashed a come-hither stare. "May I have a goodie?"

The scrape of her nails on his scalp coiled a knot in his abdomen. "Aren't you supposed to say 'trick-or-treat?'" he asked huskily.

"Your pussycat needs a petting or two." She closed the bedroom door behind them. "Maybe even a mauling."

His brows shot up on a hitched giggle. Then he palmed her hip while she started in on his buttons. Before she got too far, he traced a whisker with the pad of his thumb. Let their foreheads meet and pecked her eyelids. "Only if you give me something good to eat." He pressed into her, his enjoyment relentless, not waiting for her reply before devouring her mouth.

~~~~~

Tag list (Let me know if you want to be added!): @harmonioussolve​, @howdylilflower​, @sweet-nothings04​, @stephieraptorr​, @rommies​, @fallenstarsabyss​, @gruffle1​, @octopus-plasma​, @tsukiakarinobara​, @arthur-flecks-lovely-smile​, @another-day-in-chuckletown​, @hhandley80​, @jokerownsmysoul​, @mrscarnival​

[kirishwima]

Girl listen ...RFA reaction when they're rejected by mc ;-;

oooh a n g s t time :3c

YOOSUNG:

* It took so much for Yoosung to bring himself to confess to MC-he was so afraid, because...well, what if they didn't like him back? What if this move put their whole friendship in jeopardy? What if-

* But then sometimes MC would turn to look at him, or they’d lean in close, rest their head on his shoulder and he couldn’t shake the feeling that no-no, he can’t keep these feeling to himself, can’t help the flutter in his chest whenever MC smiles at him.

* So one day whilst they’re hanging out at his place, MC beating him at video games (he’d never tell them it’s because he’s too nervous to focus on gaming), he just pauses the game, turns to them with a small worried frown.

* “MC I-I need to tell you something. I don’t know how you’ll take it but I just-I need to say it and-”

* MC let him build up his courage, encouraging him to say what was on his mind. So he did. He told them about how they make his heart ache, how he wants nothing more than to hug them close and never let go, to have the chance to be their boyfriend.

* He refused to look at MC’s face all throughout his confession, worried he’ll lose his courage if he did. Only after muttering out a small ‘I love you’ was he able to look up and the expression that awaited him was.....a sad, pitiful look, MC biting at their lip with worry.

* “Yoosung I...I love you too, but not in the same way you mean it-you’re like a little brother to me and...”

* He didn’t want to hear anything else. Of course, what was he even thinking, confessing to them like that? How could they ever see him-plain, boring, childish, stupid him, as anything other than a friend?

* He caught the stray tear leaving his eye before it could roll down his cheek, laughing through the shatter of his heart as it dropped to the bottom of his ribcage.

* “It’s okay MC, it’s okay-I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable. Let’s just..let’s just get back to our video game, ok?”

ZEN:

* He was used to both men and women drooling over his image, love confessions flooding his mail on the daily-yet this was the one time it was him who’d be writing a love letter, pouring his feelings for MC out onto the crisp sheet, his handwriting as neat as he could make it as his hands shook with worry.

* He wrote down everything he felt, in the way he felt it-how he loved MC’s smile, how he wanted to be the one to wake them every day and be the first to see those sweet lips form said smile, how he loved their eyes when they laughed, how he longed to kiss them-everything he felt was poured out on that page, then neatly folded and fit into a light grey envelope, sealed with a sticker of a white heart.

* He gave it to MC the next time they met, asked them not to read it until they went back to their home that night-MC obliged, and so Zen went back to his own home by nightfall, worried excitement stirring in his gut as he awaited MC’s response.

* He received said response through a phone call merely a few hours after leaving MC, hours he spent pacing up and down his apartment, even smoking a cigarette to calm his nerves.

* With shaky fingers he answered the call, using his acting skills to act cool and composed. “Hello~” he greeted, as if his heart wasn’t ready to pop out off his chest.

* “Zen I-I’m sorry I took some time in reading your letter and thinking over my response before I called you-I wanted to be certain of how to properly respond to your feelings.” Zen could already feel his heart still, his breath shuddering as he nervously tapped on his box of cigarettes. “I’m sorry I just...you’re a wonderful friend Zen, and a beautiful person I just don’t see you that way.”

* Zen let his eyes fall shut. He took in a shaky breath, crumpled the box of smokes in his grip before they fell onto the floor, his hands trembling.

* “MC, thank you for being honest with me. I’m-I have to go, but we can talk more later okay? Thank you I’m sorry-” he hang up before MC could get another word in, sinking down to the floor as his back slid against the wall. 

* He took a look at the crumpled box of cigarettes. “Guess I’ll be needing those tonight”, he mumbled to himself.

* Of all the times he had to write rejection letters-it was the first time he was on the receiving end of this bitter message.

JAEHEE:

* Honestly...Jaehee never intended on confessing to MC. She planned to keep all her feelings right here in her chest and then one day die and that’d be that.

*  But then MC would go and do something wonderful and stupid like stand up for Jaehee and call her the most beautiful woman they’ve met or even once they combed her hair because she was unused to having them this long and it took all of her willpower to not combust at the spot.

* She happened to confess by accident one day as the two closed their coffee shop for the night, MC humming a tune as they rinsed remaining cups and dishes and put them into the dish washer.

* The way the fairy lights adorning the shop framed MC’s face, the quiet tune they were singing, how they had that adorable half-smile on their lips-Jahee couldn’t help it.

* “I love you so much” she mumbled, only realising she said it out loud after MC turned to her with wide eyes, stilling as they held a rinsed mug in both hands.

* Jaehee gaped, unable to form words as the two stared at one another. In the end it was MC that broke the silence, smiling an awkward smile.

* “Awe Jaehee, I love you too-you’re like the sister I never had!” MC beamed, returning back to their cleaning task.

* Jaehee held the broom she’d been using closer to her chest, gulping down the tremor in her throat. A sister...yes, it’s appropriate that that’s all that MC sees her as-after all...who could ever fall in love with someone as plain as her?

JUMIN:

* Jumin...he’s a straightforward man. Very much so. When he knows something, he’ll speak of it with absolute certainty, and when he doesn’t, he’s never too proud to ask-knowledge is power after all, and he always craves to learn.

* So when he couldn’t place a name on the reason why his stomach tightened at the sight of MC, why he felt so protective over them, why he wanted so badly to keep them by his line of sigh at all costs, how he felt the urge to run his fingers through their hair-of course he decided he had to ask MC why that was, see if they had an answer.

* As he sat MC down on the couch, telling them he’d like to discuss his symptoms with them, MC laughed, rolled their eyes as Jumin started talking. Yet as Jumin went on, explaining how his heart fluttered at the sight of MC and how even right then he wanted to lean in close to them, MC’s smile quickly got replaced by a small frown, their gaze evading Jumin’s as they fiddled with their hands, unable to look back up at him.

* “MC, if you know what this is, please-I’d appreciate it if you could tell me. I’m not...I know I’m not a man that’s very in tune with his emotions, and I’ve learnt a lot thanks to your help-I’d be grateful if you could help me yet again.”

* MC took in a deep breath, let their eyes flutter shut before forcing themselves to look to Jumin. 

* “Jumin I-I can’t be sure, since feelings are a very private and individual thing, but the way you’re describing it it...it seems like you may be in love with me.”

* Jumin pondered over MC’s words for a moment, humming as he leaned back on the velvet sofa, his brow furrowed. He looked back at MC, how their stance was rigid, their hands firmly set on their lap, their eyes averting Jumin’s...

* His heart stilled when he looked at how MC fiddled with the ring on their finger-a present from V from when he proposed to MC a few months ago.

* “I don’t believe so”, he decided, “right now I...” he bit his tongue, fighting back at the flood of feelings unleashed with this realisation, “I don’t feel the urge to do anything romantic with you-perhaps it’s more of an adoration, like a sibling or a friend?”

* MC visibly relaxed at his words, their back slouching after they held it straight and tense for so long. “Ah, yeah, yeah that could be it! I’m sorry for jumping to conclusions, it’s just the way you described it-”

* Jumin nodded, forcing a smile to his lips. “It was also my mistake-like I said, I’m not yet as in tune with my emotions as I perhaps should be, so it’s hard to explain them some times. Thank you for helping me put this one to rest.”

* MC nodded along before looking down at their phone, buzzing on the coffee table, a candid photo of V flashing up on their screen.

* “Sorry, let me take this real quick-I’ll tell him you said hi!” they said and quickly took their phone off of the table, making their way to the balcony. “Hey baby”, Jumin heard MC mumble into the phone before disappearing outside.

* Emotions, Jumin thought, what good are they anyway? Looking to MC’s retreating figure-he wished he’d never felt a thing.

SEVEN/SAEYOUNG:

* He loves MC. He’s so in love with them it hurts, hurts to the point of tears, how everything they do is like magic in Saeyoung’s eyes, how he’ll see them standing besides him and get the urge to lean in, to wrap his arms around them, breathe them in like smoke even if he never lit a cigarette in his life before-MC was his drug and he was a junkie in withdrawal.

* He loves MC. He’ll never tell. 

* He sees how happy they are, how much they cherish the RFA, him included-and how they’ll never love him the way he loves them. Of course they won’t, how could they? They’re only dating his twin brother after all.

* They’re the one that found Saeran, that saved him from Rika’s mind control, that then not only helped his twin brother, the one Saeyoung had never even tried to find before, but also helped save Saeyoung as well from their fathers’ grip, helped him reconnect with Saeran and finally, finally live life as a free man. This is all he could ever ask from MC and more.

* So these feelings-the adoration, the pang of pain and jealousy and guilt-so much guilt as he watched his own brother, his flesh and blood lean down to kiss MC’s cheek, how they giggled as they turned to greet Saran-Saeyoung had no say in this. His brother is happy, MC is happy, and he...well, it didn’t matter what he felt, now did it?

* He was happy his brother was safe. He was happy MC was there for him when Saeyoung couldn’t be. 

* And he had no right to feel anything more nor anything less.

I went full angst for Jumin to make up for the fact that I won’t write one for V since well....it’s too angsty, i can’t even begin to imagine a sad V without crying TuT hope you like these regardless though! Sorry they’re bit short, I’m trying to get back into the swing of writing aah

-send me mystic messenger head canons for character reactions-

[shoutaaizawas]

Bakugou x OC Messaged Received: Chapter Twenty Two

Summary:  Bakugou Katsuki wants to improve his English after enough incidents of tourists getting into trouble. Harper Bailey is hoping to learn enough Japanese to be able to take a trip to Japan one day. They find a site that sets up online pen pals to help them improve in the language they’re learning. When they’re paired together it’s the beginning of a relationship neither of them expected.

Read On AO3 | Masterlist

Previous Chapter | Chapter Twenty Two | Next Chapter 

It had been a week since Harper had arrived in Japan. That week had been the best week of Bakugou’s life. Or at least that’s what he felt at the moment.

Bakugou sat on the couch watching Harper make her cup of coffee. As she stirred the drink with a spoon she did an excited little dance as she did he realized just how far gone he was as he smiled widely at her actions.

Sure, he had accepted how deep his feelings were for her but he wasn’t planning on saying it out loud any time soon. It wasn’t that he was sure about how he felt but even with how well he felt things were going he was still scared that she didn’t feel the same way. He couldn’t imagine anything more embarrassing than putting his feelings on the table only for her to not return them.

It was easy for him to get caught up in what their future would look like but he constantly told himself to take things one step at a time. For now, she was going to stay here longer and that was good enough for now.

Harper returned to the couch, sitting down next to Bakugou, he placed his arm around her as she did.

“I just have to answer some work emails then I’m all yours.” She said resting her head against his shoulder as she pulled her phone out.

Last night Midoriya had texted him about a group of their friends getting together to go to the beach. His initial reaction was to say no. He would prefer to spend the day alone with Harper but more than that he was worried to introduce her to all his childhood friends at once. He knew it would be overwhelming and didn’t want to put her through that.

At the same time, he also did want them to meet, even if he knew his friends were sure to embarrass him in front of her. But he wanted her to be a part of his life and this was a good way to start. He finally decided to leave it up to her.

“I was wondering if you’d like to go to the beach today?” He asked.

“Oh, you’re not surprising me this time?” She teased, looking up from her phone.

“Midoriya invited us, a lot of my high school friends will be there. I wanted you to have a choice. I didn’t just want to throw you into it.” He explained.

“That’s very sweet of you.” She said pressing a kiss against his cheek. “I would really like to meet your friends. Are Mina and Jirou going?”

“Yeah, I think so.” He said. “Did you bring a bathing suit or do we need to get one?”

“I brought one, I kind of over-packed but in hindsight that wasn’t a bad thing.” She laughed.

“Let me make you breakfast before we get ready.” He said, brushing a strand of hair out of her face.

“How can I say no to that.” She said with a big smile, leaning up to press a kiss to his lips. Bakugou’s heart skipped a beat.

Bakugou quickly made breakfast for both of them before getting ready. He made sure to pack a back with sunscreen and towels as well as grab an umbrella and chairs.

He was finishing packing some drinks and snacks when Harper walked out of his bedroom dressed in a pair of shorts and a tank top.

They arrived at the beach, the sun was bright in the sky and the weather was perfect for swimming. Harper was nervous, she would admit it. For one, they were all impressive pro heroes but more importantly, they were Bakugou’s friends. Even if he played it off that they weren’t super close she knew they meant a lot to him.

“Are Suki and Kirishima going to be here?” She asked.

“Yeah, they rarely miss anything where we all get together.” He said, pulling their bags out of the car. Harper tried to reach for one before Bakugou pulled it away giving her a look. She should have known better that he wouldn’t let her carry anything. She put her own bag over her shoulder refusing to let him take it for her.

It was a funny sight looking at him carrying all of their stuff at one. The bags over his shoulder, chairs in hand, and umbrella balanced somewhere in there and yet he still left his hand open to hold hers.

“If it’s too much we can leave whenever.” He said squeezing her hand reassuringly.

“Thank you, I appreciate it.” She said looking up at him with a big smile.

It was easy to spot the group even with only knowing a few of them. There was a large group, they had umbrellas, towels and chairs set up all over. As they approached them all Harper started to feel even more nervous.

“Harper!” A familiar voice shouted. She looked over to see Mina waving at them excitedly. Harper and Bakugou approached and Mina gave Harper a hug before going to hug Bakugou. “I’m surprised you guys came, I was sure Bakugou would want to keep you to himself.”

Bakugou gave her a look and Harper laughed.

“I’m glad we came, I’m excited to meet everyone.” She said.

“Hey, guys!” Kirishima said as he and Suki approached. They both gave them hugs as well.

“I’m so hurt that you got to meet her before I did.” Harper heard from a blond man as he approached with Jirou beside him. He had yellow eyes and a black stripe that almost resembled a lightning bolt in his hair. She recognized him from the news the other day.

“Hey, Harper.” Jirou greeted. “It’s good to see you again. This is my boyfriend Denki.”

“Not just your boyfriend but one of Bakugou’s best friends.” He defended. “Not that I’m not absolutely overjoyed to be your boyfriend.” He said giving Jirou a charming smile.

“It’s nice to meet you,” Harper said bowing.

“Hey, I don’t want to be left out!” A man with black hair said. He had a wide grin and odd elbows. “I’m Sero, it’s nice to finally meet you. You’ve been quite the subject among us all.”

“Oh boy, hopefully only good things,” Harper said with a nervous laugh. She understood that it was only expected to be talked about, her own friends talked about Bakugou quite a lot.

“It’s not been anything negative.” Mina jumped in. “Everyone has just been excited to meet you.”

“I’m glad it’s mutual.” Harper laughed.

“We’re going to play some volleyball if you want to join. We need one more for the girl's team.” Jirou mentioned.

“Oh, I love volleyball. I’d like to play.” She replied excitedly.

“Perfect, I’ll introduce you to the rest of the girls.” She said grabbing Harper by the hand. Harper spared Bakugou a look before being dragged away. He looked concerned but she gave him a reassuring smile to let him know she didn’t mind.

“Okay, you know Jirou and Suki of course. This is Momo,” She said pointing the woman with her black hair in a ponytail. She looked so elegant.

“Asui,” She said.

“My friends call me Tsu.” The green hair woman said. She had big eyes and almost resembled a frog.

“And Uraraka, or Midoriya now,” Mina said with a laugh at her slip up.

“You’re married to Deku?” Harper asked. The brunette blushed.

“Yeah, it’s been over a year now.” She said sheepishly. “Have you met him yet?”

“Oh, no not yet. I’ve heard about him quite a bit. Is he here?” She asked. Harper was quite interested to meet Midoriya. She had heard so much about him both from her own friend back in America and from Bakugou now.

“We forgot to bring ice so he went to go get some, he should be back pretty quick.” She explained.

“Alright, let’s head over to the net,” Mina said. Harper’s gaze followed to the net that wasn’t too far from where they had set up everything.

“Are you going to play?” Harper asked as she walked beside Suki.

“Oh no, honestly I can’t keep up with all these heroes.” She laughed. Harper gave her a serious look.

“Am I about to make a fool out of myself?” She asked.

“Maybe?” Suki said trying not to laugh at her sudden seriousness. “Depends on how good you are at volleyball.”

“What have I gotten myself into.” Harper sighed.

They got to the sandy court and the guys were there and ready to play. On the other team, there was Bakugou, Sero, Denki, and Kirishima that she knew. There was also Iida, a tall dark blue-haired man and Tokoyami who had a bird head and a quirk called Dark Shadow that was a sentient bird shadow that was a part of him. Nothing out of the ordinary. She had also seen him on the news.

Harper tried her best not to stare at Bakugou as he pulled off his shirt and tossed it to the side before getting into place for the game. He said something to Sero that she couldn’t hear.

The game began and it was easy for Harper to understand why Suki sits these games out. The speed and power that they casually played at was far above anything Harper could accomplish. The ball darted back and forth far quicker than she could keep up with. She tried following it along but it usually was gone before she could do anything.

It was also hard to focus on the game when she couldn’t keep her eyes off of Bakugou. The way that he jumped for the ball spiking it into the sand. The way his muscles flexed as he effortlessly moved. That determined look in his eyes as he watched everyone before deciding his next move. She almost didn’t mind that it was a point against them when he did it.

“Harper!” Mina shouted, setting the ball in her direction. It headed toward her at a normal speed for once. She was able to run up and hit the ball over the net. The ball headed in Bakugou’s direction. His gaze moved from Harper and to the ball. He hesitated before going for the ball but it slipped past him.

Harper shot Bakugou a look. There was no way he couldn’t have hit that ball.

“Oh my god, he really is going soft.” Denki said.

“Shut up, extra.” He shouted over at his friend.

“I’ve never seen Bakugou let anyone win anything on purpose.” Sero chimed in.

“They’re gonna get themselves killed.” Jirou said indifferently.

“Never stopped them before.” Mina laughed.

Bakugou walked over to them but Kirishima was quick to intervene, holding him back.

“Wow, guys. Let’s get back to this game so we can break out the snacks once it’s over.” Kirishima reasoned.

Bakugou let it go, looking over to Harper. She gave him an amused look. Bakugou smiled back. She saw Denki open his mouth but Tokoyami was quick to slap his hand over his mouth to stop whatever comment was about to come out.

The game went on, even with Harper not able to help out very much the girls stayed nearly tied to the boys. It felt like the last play of the game lasted forever. Both sides were pushing to win. The ball went back and forth for the longest time.

The ball was about to hit the sand on the girl's side when Harper dove for it. She pretty much went face-first into the sand but she was able to hit it up just enough for Tsu to jump up and spike it onto the boy's side.

The girls cheered. Mina and Jirou helped Harper up from the ground.

“Harper you’re amazing.” Ochaco said approaching her as Harper dusted the sand off of herself. She was going to feel that tomorrow but it was worth it to not be the most useless person on the team.

“I’m glad I was able to do something.” She laughed. “I didn’t realize just how out of my league I was.”

“As long as you had a good time, that’s all that matters.” Tsu said.

After they finished up they broke out the snacks as Kirishima promised. Harper got to meet Shoji, Aoyama, Ojiro, Sato, and Koda as they arrived. They were all so nice.

Bakugou stayed close to Harper’s side, almost always having a hand on her whether they were holding hands or he had his arm around her shoulder. It was nice, getting to meet everyone and laugh with them. She would sneak looks at Bakugou when he wasn’t looking at her and see how content and happy he looked around his friends.

“You’re finally back.” Ochaco said Harper looked to where she was walking over to only to see a tall green-haired man. That must be Midoriya, she thought. He had bright green eyes and freckles across his cheeks. He was both an intimidating figure and very soft at the same time.

“Sorry, I got caught up with some work on the way back.” He said sheepishly.

“Of course you did.” She said with a laugh.

“Look who I found on the way here.” He said gesturing to the two men with him. One had purple hair and the other had white hair on one side and red hair on the other along with a scar on one side of his face.

“I got lost.” The one with the split hair said.

“I found him lost on my way here.” The purple-haired one said.

“Of course you did.” Bakugou scoffed. “That’s Midoriya, Shinsou, and Todoroki.” He said pointing to them respectively.

“It’s nice to meet you all.” Harper said with a smile.

They all said hello to her before splitting off to different areas. Midoriya took his ice to a cooler before making his way back to Bakugou and Harper.

“Kaachan! It’s good to see you. How are you feeling?” He asked giving him a big smile. Harper looked over to Bakugou giving him a look at the nickname. He gave her a look back that said don’t touch it. She smirked.

“I’m fine, don’t worry about it.” He replied.

“You must be Harper. I’m really happy to get to meet you.” He said with a bright smile.

“Same here, I’ve heard a lot about you,” Harper said. “In fact, one of my close friends in America is a really big fan. She’s actually a pro hero, she’s not in the top ten or anything but she’s awesome.”

Midoriya’s face lit up. He asked about her friend and her quirk. Harper gladly explained everything, it took her off guard that he was so genuinely interested.

“Do you have a quirk?” He asked.

“Yeah, I can control plants. Not very much but it comes in handy for keep houseplants alive.” She laughed.

“Wow, that’s an awesome quirk!” He said. She wasn’t expecting him to be so impressed by her quirk and it didn’t seem like he was just trying to be nice.

“Can you control any plants? Is it only small plants or can you control trees or any organic material? How can you control them? Can you move them or is it only their growth?” Midoriya rambled out what felt like a million questions. It was overwhelming she wasn’t sure where to start.

“Cut it out, nerd.” Bakugou interrupted. “That’s too many questions.”

“Oh, I’m sorry!” He apologized. “I get a little carried away.”

“That’s an understatement.” Bakugou scoffed.

“It’s okay.” Harper said.

The three of them ended up sitting down under some shade as Harper explained her quirk to Midoriya. His genuine interest was flattering. This was the number one pro hero in Japan and he was interested in her quirk that in her own opinion was barely capable of taking care of a garden. Granted, it did help her when she was kidnapped so she supposed she couldn’t bash it too much.

“Bakugou, can you help us before Kirishima burns all the food?” Suki called out to him. She was standing next to Kirishima who was standing in front of a grill that currently had more fire in it than looked necessary.

“I’ll be back.” He said to Harper giving her a soft look before getting up.

“No worries.” She replied.

“He really cares about you.” Midoriya said when Bakugou was out of ear’s range. Harper looked over at Midoriya.

“I really care about him too.” She said with a smile.

“Kaachan has been through a lot, he’s grown a lot. He’s an amazing hero, an amazing person.” He said. “He deserves an amazing person.”

“I agree.” She said. “I hope I can be that person for him.”

Midoriya smiled at you.

“I know I don’t know you very well but I have a good feeling about you.” He said. “Kaachan mentioned you're an author.”

“Yeah, I write under the name Harper Hawthorne.” She explained.

“Really? Ochaco loves your books. She made me read them when we first started dating.” He said. “We can’t wait for the next book.”

“You guys like them?” She said with a laugh. Who would have thought that the number one hero had read her books? “Well, then I’ll have to hook you guys up with it before it’s out.”

“If you could not tell Ochaco that would amazing. Our anniversary is coming up and that would be the perfect gift.” He pleaded.

“On one condition,” She said with a smirk. “My friend’s a big fan and it would make her life if you could send her a little video saying hello.”

“Of course.” He said happily. “I can get her some merch too if she wants. I’ll even sign it.”

“She would love that!”

“You two are really excited about something.” Bakugou said as he returned.

“We’re just bonding.” Harper said.

“Great.” His tone was dry but she could tell he was happy that they were getting along. “C’mon, let’s go in the water.”

Before she could protest Bakugou was pulling her up and dragging her towards the water.

The water was beautiful, a clear blue against the white sands it was picture perfect. Harper hadn’t seen a part of Japan she hadn’t liked yet. The water rose and crashed against the shore.

Harper wasn’t one for the beach, normally. The waves made her nervous and she had never been a strong swimmer. The few times she had beach days with her friends she always stayed far away from the water and stuck to getting a nice tan or helping her friends prepare food.

But she didn’t want to stop Bakugou and the thought of breaking off from everyone sounded nice. She was enjoying getting time to meet all of his friends but it was overwhelming.

Before they got too close she stopped to pull off the clothes that had been covering her bathing suit. Bakugou had already been in his swim trunks without a shirt.

Looking up she caught Bakugou staring, he looked away quickly with red cheeks.

“You’re allowed to look.” She teased. Bakugou looked back but his blush didn’t lessen.

He walked into the water and Harper followed. It was cool against her skin, a nice relief from the heat of the sun that felt endless. Bakugou continued further in but she hesitated when the water reached her knees.

“Are you coming?” He asked when he noticed her falling back.

“I- uh,” She hesitated. It felt childish, stupid even to be scared of the water. Bakugou was so strong, fearless there was no way her fear wouldn’t be seen as foolish. Instead of answering she caught up with him, the water now at her waist. She could feel her anxiety raise but she pushed it down. It’s fine, she thought.

“When I was little my family would always come to the beach.” He said as he watched the waves move. The water would move past them, crashing onto the sand behind them. “My dad would take me out into the water, he taught me how to hold my breath and swim under the waves before the crashed. It became a game for me.”

Harper smiled at the fond look on his face.

“I never liked being in water that much, it makes it harder for my quirk to activate but I always loved our beach trips.” He said.

“That sounds really nice.” She said. “My family didn’t go to the beach very often. We lived pretty inland, we would go to the lake or a river.”

She left out the part where she always avoided going too far in so she wouldn’t have to swim.

It seemed that life didn’t care for her hiding of important facts about herself, that or it simply didn’t care for her in general. Before she could reminisce more about her family’s summer activities a big wave swelled up.

Before she could do anything it was crashing down on her. Harper froze, closing her eyes and waiting for the impact to sweep her away. The water rushed over her, she hadn’t been able to hold her breath in time but an arm wrapped securely around her waist keeping her from tumbling with the wave.

As the water settled she coughed out the water that made it into her lungs. Opening her eyes she saw Bakugou looking at her concerned. He picked her up carrying her out of the water with hast before setting her down on the wet sand out of the path of the waves.

“Are you okay?” He asked.

“Yeah,” Harper said still coughing. “I’m okay, I’m okay. I’m just not that good with water.”

“Why didn’t you say something we didn’t have to go in.” He said.

“I know, I just didn’t want to be a wet blanket.” She sighed.

“You drowning would be more of a wet blanket than wanting to stay out of the water.” He scolded. “What if I hadn’t grabbed you in time?”

“I mean I wanted to get in the water too, I just didn’t expect that wave to come out of nowhere.” She said.

Bakugou sighed, glancing out to the water. The sun was getting low in the sky and the sky was beginning to turn shades of pink and purple.

“If you told me I could have helped you more.” He said.

“Maybe we can try again, without the almost drowning this time.” She offered.

“Okay, just stay close to me and follow my lead.” He said.

Bakugou took her by the hand leading her out to the water. He leaned down for a moment in front of her hoping she’d understand what he was asking without him saying. Harper hesitated a moment before realizing it. She wrapped her arms around his neck, trying her best not to choke him, and she used her legs to keep herself from falling off his back. He easily stood up, walking further into the water. He made sure to time it right so they weren’t hit by any big waves.

He was quick and efficient as he swam just far out enough that the waves would break after them. He grabbed Harper’s arms, signaling her to let go so he could turn around to face her. He made sure he kept his hands on her so she didn’t feel like she would float away.

“Good?” He asked.

“Good.” She smiled back at him.

The sky was stunning, the motion of the waves bobbing them up and down gently was relaxing. He pulled her closer to her, one arm wrapped around her waist the other brushing her wet hair out of her face.

“It’s beautiful.” She said glancing at the sunset.

“It is.” He agreed.

“This is perfect, thank you.” Harper said, wrapping one arm around his neck. It was so easy floating in the water, keeping her close so she would feel safe. He felt honored that she felt safe enough with him to be able to enjoy this.

Bakugou didn’t answer but pressed a kiss against her lips. He had never considered himself a romantic man but Harper changed that. Or maybe she was simply the key to unlocking all of this softness he had locked away. She made him want to be a better man, not just in their relationship but in every way.

He pulled away breathless, staring into her eyes. He loved her so much but he wasn’t ready to say it out loud. Not yet.

It was nice to be able to hold each other and float in the gentle waves and watch the sun sink lower in the sky as the colors changed every moment.

“Bakugou! Harper!” Denki shouted from the shore. “Food’s ready!”

Bakugou let out a huff.

“Are you hungry?” He asked.

“As much as I’d love to stay out here, yes I am.” She answered.

Bakugou motioned for her to hang onto his back again and he made his way out of the water safely. He put her down once they were back on solid ground but he didn’t let go of her hand as they returned to where their friends were gathered on the beach.

It was nice to see his friend accepting Harper and it was nice to see her getting along with everyone. He knew it had to be overwhelming for her but she handled it so well. He was thankful that his friends were welcoming, granted if anyone gave her any attitude it would be the last thing they’d do.

A part of him wondered if she would be happy living here, with him. He knew that it wouldn’t be easy leaving behind everything that she knew, that she was comfortable with. But she got along with his friends, he could easily see her as a permanent part of his life here in Japan.

He shook his head. He couldn’t ask her to leave behind everything she knew, leave behind the friends she cared for so much. He wouldn’t ask her. He shouldn’t even be thinking about it right now, he should enjoy the extended time he had with her.

His friends had prepared food and had it set out on the table under the sunshade.

“Dig in guys.” Kirishima said gesturing to all the food.

They didn’t hesitate, grabbing plates and grabbing the food that they wanted. He waited back with Harper for most everyone to get their food.

“What do you want?” He asked her as he grabbed a plate.

“Oh, I’m not sure. I can get it myself.” She said reaching for the plate in his hand but he pulled it back.

“I got it.” He said.

Harper threw her arms up in surrender.

“Okay, whatever you say.” She said with a slight smirk.

Once he got both of them food he sat down near Kirishima and Suki, knowing that Harper was the most comfortable with them.

Midoriya and Ochaco were sitting nearby along with Mina and Sero. The group talked about different things. Bakugou was glad that they included Harper and she easily cracked jokes and fit in with the conversation.

As it got darker they started a bonfire easily thanks to Todoroki’s quirk and they all gathered around sitting down.

Bakugou sat on a towel, Harper resting between his legs and leaning back into his chest. He had been mindlessly playing with her hair as he watched the fire move and dance, listening to the conversation around them. That lead to Harper falling asleep in his arms.

“I really like her, she’s a nice girl, Bakugou.” Midoriya said from beside him. “I’m glad that you found someone.”

At times it was hard not to fall into old habits with Midoriya. Even now, after all this time and progress he made he still wanted to shoot a rude comment at the green-haired man. It didn’t help that his relationship was a touchy subject. Not that that meant anything bad, but it was still a tender thing opening his heart and his life to someone else. Much less having people comment on it.

“Thanks.” He said finally, using his self-control.

“Maybe sometime we can go on a double date!” He suggested.

Bakugou didn’t have that much self-control.

“Okay, beat it nerd.” He snapped.

Midoriya laughed at the comment, undisturbed.

“Really, I think it’d be fun.” He said. “Besides I owe her some signed merch for her friend. She’s hooking me up with a copy of her new book before release.”

Bakugou scowled at that. He was the first to read her book before anyone else, he didn’t like the thought of Midoriya getting his hands on a copy. Granted it wouldn’t be long before the whole world read it but he liked feeling special. His reasoning voice kicked in and offered that he would always be the most special since he was the first one to read it.

“Fine.” He grumbled. “We’ll set something up.”

“I can’t wait.” Midoriya smiled.

Bakugou spent more time around the fire chatting with his friends, but not so loudly that he’d wake Harper from her peaceful sleep.

As much as he hated to admit it, with Harper in his arms and being surrounded by his close friends his heart felt full.

He wished that the rest of his life could be like this but even though their relationship was firm so far they had so much to work for before they could feel secure in their future.

It hadn’t been long since they started dating officially but he couldn’t stand the thought of losing her. He couldn’t stand the thought of spending another moment without her.

Whatever they face, they would get through it. He promised that not only to himself but to Harper.

We’ll make it through.

taglist: @our-lady-avon

[kyovtani]

ASKS

hey babies! i’ve decided to answer the asks about back to life one and two like this because ive received so so so many and you guys blew me away so answering every single one of them is the least i can do to show you guys just how grateful i am. thank you so much for giving both parts SO much love, i love and appreciate you guys and the support you’re constantly sending my way with my whole entire heart <33

BYE THE FIC IS SO GOOD SO FAR. MY ANXIETY THO FROM THE ENDING, LIKE PLS KYO REALIZE THE MCS ANXIETY PLS DONT GO OUT WITH SORA PLEASE PLEASE HE SEEN HOW SHE DIDNT LOOK OKAY WHEN HE CAME IN PLEASE REALIZE HER ANXIETY PLEASE

– THANK YOU SO SO MUCH BABY !! this was the very first ask about back to life and it’s honestly the cutest thing ever! I hc Kyoutani to be rally understanding of things like anxiety and depression, generally mental health so that’s why it was easy for him to understand the reader’s situation and mindset! 

BACK TO LIFE!!!!!!!! MY HEART!!!!!?! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH SO GOOD!!!!! i was really excited when you started posting about it!! i can't wait for part 2, i wanna know how they fix this!

AAAH !! thank you so much for the love and support baby!!!! I really hope you enjoyed part 2 just as much, sending you lots of smooches MWAH

OH MY GOD THE KYO FIC IS AMAZING

THANK YOU SO MUCH BABY !!!!! 

OH MY GOD YOUR KYOUTANI FIC HAS ME ACTUALLY FROTHING I LOVE IT SM

IM NOT KIDDING WHEN I SAY THAT MY JAW ACTUALLY DROPPED AT THE LAST COUPLE PARAGRAPHS AS WELL I CANT WAIT FOR PART 2

AAAH YOU GUYS !!! this made me so happy !!! thank you so much and I hope part two met your expectations and you enjoyed the ending MWAH!! 

HOLY FUCK THAT KYOUTANI FIC WHEW IT WAS SO SO GOOD IM SO EXCITED FOR PART 2

thank you for the food <33

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE LOVE AND SUPPORT BABY !!!

YOUR KYOTANI FIC AHHHHHHH my heart can’t handle this

I AM SO GLAD YOU ENJOYED IT BABY !!!

OW THE END ON BACK TO LIFE HURTED THOUGH GDFGHJDFHJRY

Was overwhelmed by the hurty that I forgot to say how much I ADORE your characterization of Kyoutani. fdjkhgjkgdr

THANK YOU SO MUCH !! honestly- that means the world to me, probably the best compliment you can give me :((

Back to life was so good OMG 😳😳 HELLO??? You're amazing

Thank you so much, my love! it honestly is everything to me when you guys tell me such sweet things I love you so much MWAH!!

the new fic did not help me with my insecurities now i’m just frustrated and insecure. great writing tho.

honestly- same. when I wrote this, I lit indulgent every bit of my mind working into this fic and thats why it means so much to me ?? so youre not alone, my love; but thank you so much <33

The way I panicked at the end of the fic thinking there wasn’t gonna be more to it, holy shi that fox was so good I almost cried thinking they were just gonna end things like that 🥺🥺🥺🥺

I’d NEVER end a fic like that- I hate bad endings and cannot stand cliffhangers but the formatting didn't give me another choice im sorry for the heart attack baby kfhflashsj but am glad you liked it!

@au-roraaa said: ZADE I WAS NEVER A KYO FUCKER BUT I THINK YOUVE CONVERTED ME HOLY FUCKSJFJSJDJSN

THIS IS MY JOB AT THIS POINT I WANT YOU ALL TO TURN INTO KYOU FUCKERS KSSSOH 

UR THE BEST WRITER WTF?? WHEN DO U THINK PART TWO WOULD BE UP... and does kyoutani flirt with sora 😣💔

YOU GUYS- NOOO- pls my heart made a loop :(( I love you so much :(( thank you baby and I think now you know what he does with sora MWAH

@kawakuto said: hi hi zade!🤩 (ajdjs idk if you remember me but i moved main blogs and I was @/gukooky before LOL) THE KYOUTANI FIC ANDJWNS I DIDNT EXPECT THE END WAHHHH🥺🥺 it was so well written omg I loved it!! (wtf kyoutani, you said we were going slow what if I wasn’t ready to call u my boyfriend wtffff😔😔 pain.)

AAAAH OFC I DO REMMEBER !! hope youre doing well baby !!! and thank you SO much for your sweet words, I honestly appreciate them so much :((<33

pls I’m in love with your writing. You write kyoutani so well so now I’ll always be grabbing at any crumbs you send my way 🥵

thank you so so so much baby!!!! these kinda words always hit me right at the heart, I appreciate them so much and I love you sm much

bb i love ur kyoutani fic sm :(( ur rlly so talented <33 i look forward to pt 2 ^3^

thank you so much baby, sending a smooch your way mwah 

zade that kyoutani piece im in so much pain why would u do this to me 💔💔💔💔

believe me when I say It hurt me even more than you </3

I just finished reading part 2 and it waS SO GOODAJSFHJLFG you did amazing!! (n˘v˘•)¬

THANK YOU SO MUCH BABY !!!

Hi! New nonnie coming through :) First time I'm writing something because I'm such a nervous wreck but I just had to

THE FIC WAS SO GOOD THE VIBES ARE CHEFS KISS. IT WAS SO GOOD I LITERALLY DROOLED I CAN NOT GET OVER IT !

Mister kyotani pls rail me thanks 🐱

THANK YOU AAAH YOURE SO CUTE !!! I truly appreciate this with my whole entire heart so thank you so much baby, hope you have a good one mwah

Wait did he do anything with Sora?

nope!! they just went to the party together but in my mind he didn’t even hug her and she didn’t try anything else, too, simply bc she knew how in love he is with reader!!

YOUR MINDDDDD!! THE KYOU FIC WAS SOOOO GOOOD!! Omg i hope you do a part 3 😭😭

i have a Little sequel which is really really soft but I'd love to write some more for it! 

@soranihimawari said: Part 1 & 2 with kyoutani was amazing as always Zade! I really liked the ending. This was such a fun read. I was wondering who’s else would be sharing the apartment with Kyoutani. What made you choose tattoo artist Iwa & Oikawa? Those two made me chuckle with the way they came in like that. Hope you have a great day/evening/late night/etc.

✌🏼&💜

—sora—

aaah thank you so so much, baby!! I truly appreciate your sweet words, youre the cutest! regarding your question: You shares an apartment with Iwa, Oikawa and Yahaba (who also works at the tattoo studio!) and i don't know to be really honest- I just like the thought of these three being really good friends so after contemplating whether or not to go with iwaoi or matsuhana, I ended up going with those two dorks! hope you have a good one baby mwah!!

@sakusapetals said: PLEASEE I LOVE YOUR WRITING SO MUCH

AAAH THANK YOU SO SO MUCH BABY !!! I LOVE YOU SM 

How long did it take you to write the entire two parts? Like wow that’s alot👁👄👁 i adore long fics though

oooh- hm ?? tbh i don't really know ?? I can’t remember ?? I think it took me about a month or like three weeks since I did write it all in one go yk? it was the only WIP I worked on during that time and it felt SO relieving to publish it! 

AAAHHH the kyou fic was a masterpiece bb!!! ❤️❤️

thank you so so so much baby!!<33

U LITERLALT WRIYE KYOU THE BEST ABSOLUTE BEST. he’s so aggressive and demanding but he still is willing to show someone special his vulnerability. I LOVE READING STUFF ABOUT HIM FROM U

AAAAH thank you so much- you guys have no idea how much these kinda comments mean to me- I love you so MUCH MWAH 

I just read the first part of "back to life" an it had me speechless so many times, almost cried at the end, it's honestly so well written. I'm off to read part two. Have a nice day 🐰

sdoalfsla thank you so much baby! I hope you enjoyed both parts equally as much and thank you for all the love mwah!!<3

Hana is a baddie

SHE IS!! she’s literally the baddest bitch to ever exist ft. saeko ofc but nobody acknowledges it </3

@tonhwa said: I’m in love with the way you write kyoutani pls. Even your previous fics on your old account ( if you don’t mind me mentioning it ) are so fucking amazing. GOSH YOU CHARACTERIZE HIM SO WELL AND THE PLOT IS ALWAYS SO JUICY AND INTERESTING I CANT HELP BUT GO BACK AND READ IT. and then you release this fucking wonderful piece and I feel like it’s my birthday even though it’s already passed LOL ty ily have a wonderful day I’m sobbing tears of happiness

YOU GUYS PLEASE- the fact this made me tear up when I first read it- thank you SO much honestly. knowing you guys enjoy my characterization of my favorite character is honestly everything to me so thank you sm I love you baby have a good one!!<3

I’ve been on this app from high school, and now I’m a college grad. I have to say I’ve never sent a message to anyone I’ve followed. But that tattoo artist! Kyou fic, part 1 and 2 are 😩💕 *chefs kiss* you are one of my favorite writers I’ve ever followed since joining this app. You NEVER disappoint!

-💕 a very satisfied reader

thank you so much baby!! aaah this is honestly so so sweet :(( thank you for taking the time out of your day to send me such a sweet thing, I appreciate it and you so much mwah!!

i gotta say babe THANK YOU FOR THE KYOTANI CONTENT!! muAAAAHH💞💞

NOO THANK YOU GUYS FOR GIVING IT SO MUCH LOVE MWAH!!!

i love kyoutani and he obvs deserves his dick sucked 🤧🤧 but i catch him posting up with other girls I DONT CARE THE SITUATION he gonna catch these hands for a real one 👊🏼👆🏼🤜🏼🥊🥊 kidding 😐😐😐 he’d body me

pls the way this had me chuckling like crazy bc same sajlskjpw he can get mad all he want but he better stay his pretty ass where he is- by my side  😌

[i-am-church-the-cat]

Pilot With A Fear Of Heights

Show: Julie and the Phantoms Pairing: Carrie Wilson/Flynn  WC: 2774 Summary: Two weeks later and Flynn is laying on her bedroom floor looking between the last two letters. It was these two that solidified the idea that the letters made up something. A song, cause, of course, it was a song.

Read on AO3

Flynn didn’t know what it was the first time. She had opened her locker and saw a folded-up piece of notebook paper sitting on her books. As the Resident Lesbian of their school, she often got letters from people saying how her music helped them. They were all very sweet of course, but she’d never gotten one like this. It was just a piece of paper with a few hearts on it and four lines written in glitter pen. I’m treading water Like a preacher’s daughter Put my thoughts in order Before moving forward It was pretty but not something Flynn had ever heard before. Maybe it was a poem. It kind of read like one. But in the end, she figured it was probably something someone wrote. She wasn’t sure why, but she appreciated it nonetheless. She tucked it into the pocket where she kept some of her other notes and went about her day. By the time the next week came around, she had all but forgotten about it. She got to her locker at the end of the day and saw a piece of notebook paper once again. It still had hearts, was written with the same glitter pen, and had the same handwriting as the last one, but the lines were different. I've been looking at the skyline And our timeline How we'll soon run out of both This was curious. The last one had been about the writer and what they felt. But this one was about them. Or, multiple people at least. Not necessarily Flynn and whoever the writer was. Though if it wasn’t about them, why was she being given the notes? She was still looking at the paper and trying to figure out the motive behind it when Julie came up behind her and looked over her shoulder. “You get a love letter?” her best friend asked, shifting her books to her other hip. Flynn looked back at her in confusion and she nodded in the direction of the letter. “Hearts, glitter pen, fancy language. If it looks like a love letter and sounds like a love letter,” Julie finished with a shrug. “Huh,” Flynn blink at her then looked back at the slip of paper. It did seem kind of like a love letter. Not that she would know what that looked like. She’d never gotten one. Or given one because it seemed like every girl here was either straight or taken. A shame really. Eventually, she just shrugged and tucked it into her basket. If it was a love letter, there wasn’t much she could do until they revealed themselves. She turned and grinned at Julie, shutting her locker. It was Wednesdays, and Wednesdays were practice days. “Ready to go?” Julie grinned as well and looped her arm with Flynn’s. “I’ve been ready. You’re the one caught up with your secret admirer.” Flynn rolled her eyes good-naturedly and they walked together out of the school and to the garage where the boys were waiting for them. It wasn’t until the third one that Flynn thought ‘ maybe this was real ’. She wasn’t surprised to see the glitter pen-covered paper this time. She took it out and opened it, feeling weirdly excited. She had a secret admirer. That was cool , man. But she frowned when she read this week’s lines. Been steering clear of your face And the old days Hoping they’ll turn into ghosts Oh. Well, that was no fun. How would she ever figure out who the letter-sender was if they were avoiding her? She took a few seconds to frown over the note before closing her locker and heading to the next hall over. Julie looked surprised to see her - rightly so, it was normally her picking the other girl up, Flynn caught up in reading her letters - but took it with the grace of the goddess she was. She shot Flynn a smile and turned to finish taking things out of her locker. “One sec I’m almost-” “My secret admirer doesn’t want to see me,” Flynn cut her off. She sounded miserable even to her own ears. Maybe she’s a little too upset by this, but it felt like everyone was with someone . Julie even had her freaking ghost boyfriend! Was it too much for someone to like Flynn like that? From the letters, it seemed like someone did. They were just uncertain about those feelings and unready to face them. And if they were from a girl who wasn’t used to being attracted to girls… well, Flynn could understand their hesitation. Julie frowned at her and straightened up, tossing her backpack over her shoulder. “Did they tell you that?” Flynn shoved the letter in her face. Julie took it carefully and read it through before chewing on her lip. She looked between Flynn and the letter a few times before sighing and handing the piece of paper back. “It sounds like you two have a history. And maybe… a not so good one.” Flynn blinked then looked back at the letter. Oh, it did kind of imply that, huh? She had been so caught up in the first line that she hadn’t paid attention to the last two. “Well- that doesn’t really make it better, Jules!” Julie shrugged helplessly and Flynn sighed. Julie, unable to see her friend look defeated, put a hand on her arm, and said hopefully, “But, this is a series right? So maybe they’re just telling you how they got to the decision to send you letters?” “Yeah maybe,” Flynn wasn’t as optimistic as that but she hated to take hope away from her friend. She gave Julie a dim smile, trying to reassure her. “Yeah, you’re probably right.” “Of course I’m right,” the other girl nodded and looped their arms together. “Now let’s go see what trouble the boys have gotten up to while we were at school.” “Yes ma’am,” she salutes her with a grin and follows her out of the school. Two weeks later and Flynn is laying on her bedroom floor looking between the last two letters. It was these two that solidified the idea that the letters made up something. A song , cause, of course, it was a song. She’d been staring at the notes side-by-side for the last two hours, trying to imagine the rhythm that went with them. I’ve been thinking bout you all night Like a pilot with a fear of heights You got me thinking like Oooooh Oooo OooH I’ve been thinking bout you all night Like a tiger that’s afraid to bite You got me thinking like Oooooh Oooo OooH She rolled over to grab her backpack and tug it over. She pulled the first three notes out and put them in order. She recited them before trying to hum what she imagined the rest of it to sound like. But none of it ever matched up. She guessed she would only really find out how the song went when her secret admirer chose to reveal it. And god did she hope that was soon. She was getting really really curious. She tried to imagine what her secret admirer could look like. She’d done it a few times since the second letter but she never got a good idea. A flash of blonde hair, pink nails wrapped around a blue glitter pen. But she pushed those images away as soon as they came. Just because she knew who she wanted to be writing her a love song, doesn’t mean that’s who it actually is. Especially since Carrie Wilson was the kind of girl who received love letters, she didn’t send them. Plus she was straight. Very, very straight. Not attracted to Flynn whatsoever. So it couldn’t be Carrie and Flynn couldn’t imagine anyone else, so she would just have to wait until they decided to reveal themselves. If they ever did decide to reveal themselves. Maybe they were fine living in anonymity. In which case, Flynn would just have to deal. She was pretty good at that, in her opinion. Eventually, she sighed and tucked the notes back into her bag. She would never get answers lying on her bedroom floor, anyway. She got up and shut off the lights before climbing into bed, hoping thoughts of her secret admirer would leave her head enough for her to get some sleep. The next day at school, Flynn found another note in her locker. She didn’t think anything of it - her admirer only left a note once a week. But her heart picked up when she saw the familiar blue glitter pen, and she carefully flipped it open. It wasn’t part of a song this time, but an actual message. The rest of the song depends on you. Listen to it and if you think you might be interested, meet me at the school gates Wednesday after school. https://open.spotify.com/track/72XFWgmIuW2i5uKUbhpQWt?si=0253566eca2d4a2e - Your Secret Admirer Wednesday. The day that her admirer usually gave her a note. They were asking her to meet them. Flynn wasn’t sure she could wait that long, but it had already been a month since the first note. What were six more days? But they said to only come if the rest of the song was something she was interested in. Flynn unwrapped her earbuds and put them in before typing in the absurdly long collections of letters and numbers (seriously, they couldn’t have just written the title of the song?). Eventually, she got it pulled up and pressed play. “Pilot with a Fear of Heights” was nothing like she’d tried to imagine it as. It was infinitely better though. She was already humming along once the chorus hit, before realizing what she needed to listen to was the next part. She stood next to her open locker as the song played, telling her the feelings her admirer couldn’t express themselves. She listened to it once then she listened to it again. Then she looked up the lyrics and read them as the song played for good measure, just so that she was absolutely sure about what her admirer was trying to convey. Slowly, she grinned. She shut her locker and tucked her phone into her pocket, still playing music. She was even more excited to finally see her secret admirer, and she didn’t even have Julie here to distract her. Flynn pulled her backpack up and listened to the song all the way home until it was burned into her brain. This is so unnatural That we're on this level Cause my heart's surrendering For this new beginning Never thought I'd see this Your lips sitting right here on my own Baby, you're my weakness, my addiction I'm giving up my hope... Was that something she wanted? Hell yeah. The rest of the week was both a blur and felt like it dragged on forever. Flynn was so excited to meet her secret admirer, but she was also nervous. She didn’t have high expectations for her note-writer but she did have some. For one, what if it wasn’t a girl? Sure, everyone knew she was a lesbian, but that didn’t always stop people. And what if she had misread things? Maybe her admirer didn’t want a try at a relationship like she was expecting, maybe they just wanted to meet and share their feelings in person. But mostly she was excited. Even if Julie would say her demo beats had been particularly anxiety-inducing. What did she know anyway, her boyfriend had broken all laws of reality to be with her. Flynn wasn’t trying to compete with a love story like that. She was just trying for something real. Or at least to get a bit of experience before she graduated high school. She didn’t want to be the only one in her friend group who hadn’t dated someone. So yeah. She was excited, and nervous, and maybe had too many expectations. But when the final bell rang on Wednesday, there was nothing else to do than go meet her secret admirer. Flynn waited until most of the students had cleared out before walking out to the front courtyard. She had already sent Julie to her practice with a promise to text her later. Looking around, she thought she had missed her secret admirer, or maybe beat them there, before a voice called out from behind her. A very familiar voice. “Flynn?” She spun around and was met with a sight she never imagined she’d see. Carrie Wilson was standing in front of her looking nervous. ‘Carrie Wilson’ and ‘nervous’ did not belong in the same sentence together unless there was a ‘made me’ between them. At Flynn’s shocked silence, the blonde looked sad but determined. As if she already knew what was going to happen but was ready to face it anyway. She was a step ahead of Flynn, anyway, because she didn’t know what was happening at all. “I know I’m not what you were expecting, and I’m definitely not what you want. But everything I wrote was true. I’ve liked you for… probably longer than I realized. Kayla had to point it out to me actually. I wasn’t planning on ever telling you, since I was pretty sure you hated me. But I heard that song and it sounded… exactly like how I was feeling. So I thought ‘why not?’. If I couldn’t tell you in a way we could both understand, I was never going to tell you.” Carrie seemed to realize she was rambling and flushed - one of the top three ways to give Flynn a heart attack thanks. “So, I told you. And I totally get it if you don’t want anything to do with me. I just thought you should know.” And then she turned and started to walk away, not even waiting for Flynn’s response. Which was coming any second now, as soon as she could pick her jaw up the floor. “Hey wait!” Carrie half-turned towards her as if expecting her words to be harsh. And wow, where did they go wrong there? Flynn walked quickly to where she had stopped and stood in front of her. The fluttering in her chest made her smile come out a little wobbly but at least it came out at all. “You’re just going to dump me with all of that and not let me ask you out?” Carrie sighed. “Look I’m sorry that I- wait. What?” She blinked and looked at Flynn in badly veiled hope. “I mean, you make me wait five weeks just to know your name. Gave me a song that’s pretty much oxymorons which I think suits our relationship pretty well. Then you give me a whole speech about liking me- but don’t even give me the chance to ask you out.” Flynn shook her head in mock judgment. “Not very nice, Carrie Wilson.” “You want to ask me. On a date?” She sounded incredulous, but the good kind of incredulous. Flynn shot her a nervous grin and a half-shrug. “Um, yes. If you’d be okay with that.” Carrie looked at her for a moment before schooling her face back into the collected shell that Flynn was used to. If anything, it made Flynn’s heart beat harder. “I’m free on Saturday from one to four.” Flynn grinned and put her hands in her pockets. “I’ll pick you up.” The blonde nodded then gave her a smile that was sure to land Flynn in a hospital bed before turning and walking toward her car. It took a second before Flynn rebooted enough to give a final response. “Hey Wilson!” Carrie turned back to look at her from where she was climbing into her car. “You have good taste in music.” Flynn was blessed with another blush from the blonde before her driver shut the door. She was left there grinning as the car drove away, and once it was out of sight, she pumped her fist in the air. She quickly shot a text to Julie. [Me]: I got a date with my secret admirer!!! [Jules]: That’s awesome!! Who was it? [Me]: You’ll never believe it [Me]: It was Carrie Wilson [Jules]: Really?? I never would have guessed [Jules]: Luke did though [Jules]: He says thanks for winning him ten bucks [Me]: Did you two bet on me? [Jules]: Oh sorry gotta go practice! Love you good job! Flynn shook her head at her best friends’ antics. Honestly, she didn’t even mind. She was the one that had a date on Saturday. And a song to go with it. 

[morningfears]

Television Romance [Chapter Two]

Rating: PG-13 (a little suggestive, a little swearing)

Summary: Luke and Natalia go on their first date and they’re surprised at how well they get along. Natalia is also surprised at how well she’s able to ruin a moment.

Word Count: 6.7k

Chapter One

The conference room was empty as Natalia settled into one of the oversized office chairs situated around the long wooden table. She still had twenty minutes until colloquium, a meeting that took place every other Friday and served as a way for students to get to know their professors’ and colleagues’ research interests, began but she had just gotten out of a meeting with her advisor and didn’t feel like walking the extra few steps to the grad office. She knew that it would be full of students, each of them expressing how pointless they found colloquium or how annoyed they were to be on campus on a Friday, and though she usually felt compelled to agree (colloquium was, for the most part, pointless and her Fridays suffered greatly for it), she was in too good a mood to complain.

Although her workload had felt overwhelming, she’d managed to finish it all in far less time than she anticipated. She’d worked harder than she had in months and her sleep schedule suffered dearly for it but her advisor had the first draft of her thesis proposal, her conference paper had been submitted with nearly twelve hours to spare, and her co-author had the revisions necessary to resubmit their journal article. Her students had their first grades of the semester and every unread email in her inbox was answered.

She was exhausted, mentally and physically, but she’d managed to free her schedule completely so that she would have nothing to worry about when she went to dinner with Luke.

As if he could sense her thinking about him, Natalia’s phone vibrated in her hand and a message from Luke appeared on the screen. “Is it too cheesy to tell you that I’ve been looking forward to this all week?”

Natalia grinned at the message, a goofy smile that made her cheeks hurt, and bit back an uncharacteristic giggle as she replied, “Only if it’s cheesy to tell you that I’ve been looking forward to it, too.”

Though she had been somewhat excited when she met him - he was gorgeous - her excitement only grew the more they interacted. Throughout the week, she and Luke had exchanged dozens of messages. Most of them were superficial, wishes for good days and texts meant to plan their evening, but a few had been more fun and inquisitive. They’d wanted to save the traditional questions for the date itself - what do you do, where are you from, what brings you to LA? - so they’d had to get creative in getting to know one another.

Luke had taken to sending her cheesy jokes, stupid puns and ridiculous questions - her favorite of which was whether she would fight one horse sized duck or a dozen duck sized horses - in an effort to get to know her and it made her giddy with anticipation. She thought he was cute and he seemed charming. He was fun, silly, and sweet and she found herself starting to like him more than she thought she would. She wasn’t attached, not yet, but she could feel herself growing more comfortable with the idea of him becoming a part of her life and she only hoped that that would extend to their in-person meeting.

As she grinned at Luke’s latest joke, a cheese pun that made her groan in delight, she failed to notice the door of the conference room open or the bag drop onto the table beside her. She was too engrossed in typing out her reply, a string of emojis and a half-hearted plea for him to find a new hobby, to notice Nicole take a seat. Only when she spoke did Natalia look away from her phone.

“Okay, so, I was thinking about ordering pizza for tonight. We have some money in the grad association account and free food is the only thing I can think of that will convince people to spend their Friday night locked in the grad office. We can’t buy their alcohol but I promised everyone we would go out for drinks once the last person hit submit.”

Natalia blinked, confused as to what Nicole was talking about, before her eyes widened and her heart dropped in realization. “The writing party, fuck,” she groaned, her head falling back as she huffed a sigh of annoyance at her mistake. She wasn’t normally one to forget things - she was the first person anyone turned to when they needed to know a deadline - but it had completely slipped her mind. She’d been so caught up in wanting to see Luke that anything nonessential had completely fallen off her radar. “I’m so sorry, Ni. I totally forgot all about it.”

“It’s no big deal,” Nicole assured her as she watched Natalia spin in her chair to face her. “It really didn’t need any planning. I just sent out an email. I was hoping you could bring some of those method books of yours, though. I don’t have anything to submit so I wanted to work on my proposal. I’m having trouble wording the coding section.”

Natalia grimaced and shook her head. “No, Ni, I forgot and, uh, sort of made other plans?” 

She tried her hardest not to look guilty - it was an informal writing group that likely wouldn’t get much writing done, anyway - but Natalia felt bad. She knew that Nicole was struggling to get her proposal done and there weren’t many other people she could turn to for help. Their program was small, one of the smallest on campus, and of the current cohort, only she, Nicole, and one doctoral student had chosen the same methodology. They hadn’t had a formal class on the method yet - they’d been thrown to the wolves, not unlike the rest of their graduate career - and relied on one another to make the best of their situation.

This would have been an opportunity for them to sit down, uninterrupted by life, and work out the roadblocks she’d been hitting. However, Natalia had forgotten and committed to dinner with Luke.

“I can reschedule,” she offered, before Nicole could speak, “I feel like he wouldn’t mind.”

At the mention of a ‘he’, Nicole raised her eyebrows and shook her head. “No, seriously, it’s not a big deal. We can meet during office hours next week or something. But, that’s beside the point.” She dropped her cellphone onto the table and turned her full attention to Natalia as she asked, “He? Who is he?”

Natalia knew that Nicole was expecting her to say that the aforementioned he was her father, who she had dinner with once a week, or the new TA that followed her around like a lost puppy. But she wasn’t expecting her to say, “The guy from the coffee shop, Luke.”

“The one that destroyed your dress?” Nicole did look surprised, her eyebrows remained raised and her mouth dropped open, but she looked almost amused at the sheepish grin that graced Natalia’s face. “Let me guess, he asked you out as a way to make up for it?”

“…yes. He’s so cute, Ni, I couldn’t say no,” Natalia gushed with a grin as she shifted in her chair and reached for her phone. Nicole rolled her eyes good-naturedly and rolled her chair a little closer to lean over and take a look at the text thread Natalia pulled up. “Look, he’s been sending me stupid jokes all week and he’s excited about the date and so am I.”

“Wait, date? Holy shit, Nat, get laid!”

Natalia and Nicole glanced up from her phone and watched as Ali, the third member of their cohort - the only other master’s student that started the program at the same time as them - stepped into the conference room and took a seat across from them. “D’you finally agree to meet a Tinder match in person?” she asked as she grabbed a notebook and pen from her backpack.

“No, they met the old fashioned way; he destroyed her dress by spilling coffee on her,” Nicole answered for her as she grabbed her own notebook out of her backpack.

“Oh, retro vibes, cute. Is he hot?” Natalia rolled her eyes fondly as Ali leaned forward, her eyebrows raised as she waited for a response.

Although the three of them had grown as close as sisters and looked quite similar to one another, they couldn’t be more different. Nicole was the oldest - she’d taken two years off between undergrad and grad school - and acted like it. She was the voice of reason, the calming presence that kept Natalia from overreacting and Ali from under-reacting. She was the heart of the group, the one who provided a shoulder to cry on and a kind word of advice when things got tough, and neither Natalia nor Ali could imagine getting through grad school without her. Nicole was also married and had been for three years. She and her husband had been together since their freshman year of college - they met in a class - and she was very happy to be in a committed, long term relationship.

Ali was the wildcard of their group. She was a free spirit, only acting according to her own desires, and was unapologetic in how she lived her life. She was the group’s sense of courage, pushing Natalia out of her comfort zone by taking her out to bars and helping her fill her closet with clothes she never would’ve imagined herself wearing as well as helping Nicole get through the semester without bowing to the pressures of the administration. Like Natalia, Ali was technically single. Unlike Natalia, however, Ali dated around and kept her options open. She had a string of ‘boyfriends’ and decided that she would wait until after she received her doctorate to settle down.

Their biggest similarities were their looks. Each of them had long dark hair, though Ali’s was a shade lighter than Nicole and Natalia’s, and stood at a little over five feet. Nicole and Natalia stayed out of the sun, both of them burned quite easily and went red instead of tanning, while Ali remained a beautiful olive all year round. Nicole and Ali were both curvier, each with natural assets that Natalia longed for, while Natalia fell somewhere in an annoying gap between petite and average. 

Natalia loved the differences in her friends, she appreciated seeing the way they all complemented one another, but she couldn’t help but laugh at the almost predictable reactions she’d gotten from both of them upon learning that she had a date.

“He’s gorgeous,” she finally answered, grinning at Ali when she nodded in appreciation and gave her a thumbs up.

“That’s my girl! Have you got condoms? You can stop by my place and grab some after colloquium if you want. Oh, do you need help getting ready? I can do your makeup!” Ali looked to be almost more excited than Natalia was about the date. She was giddy, grinning at the possibilities, and Natalia hated to rain on her parade but she didn’t plan on sleeping with Luke on their first date.

“I appreciate the offer, Al, but I don’t think I’ll need the condoms just yet. I would love for you to do my makeup, though. We’re going to Oak and I know it’s kind of dark in there but it’s also a little nicer than the dives we go to so I should make an effort,” she reasoned as she watched the door swing open and a few of their classmates enter the room. She waved at them, as did Nicole and Ali, before she added, “We can talk about it after colloquium.”

Throughout the hour long meeting, Natalia’s phone wouldn’t stop buzzing. Luke texted her, a photo of himself and his dog that made her heart melt, and joked that he had the best help in getting ready for their night. Nicole and Ali filled their group chat - appropriately titled ‘why are we here?’ - with suggestions for conversation topics (although Natalia sincerely hoped ‘do you have any hot, single friends?’ was a joke) as well as gentle teasing about how their baby was growing up.

Natalia took it all in stride, shaking her head at Nicole and Ali’s teasing and gushing over Luke’s dog, but she felt just as excited as they all seemed to. It was nice, having plans and feeling something she hadn’t felt in a long while, and she only grew more excited as colloquium ended and they all began to file out of the conference room.

“Send me a text when you guys choose where you’re going for drinks,” she told Nicole as the three of them stepped out of the building, her and Ali heading toward her car while Nicole was off to her own, “I might stop by and get a drink after my date.”

“If you do, let me know. I want all the details. If not, we can all get breakfast or something and you can tell us everything.” Ali wasn’t the type to turn down a drink or gossip so it came as no surprise that she wanted to be included in the conversation.

“Have fun, Nat,” Nicole bid, a genuinely happy smile on her face as she began walking down the sidewalk. “See you later!”

Natalia and Ali waved off Nicole before they began the trek to Natalia’s car. She and Luke planned to meet at eight and it was already four. She knew that she had time - she would likely only show up a few minutes early - but she was anxious to get ready. She had no idea what she wanted to wear, how she wanted her makeup done, or how to wear her hair. She hadn’t been on a date in years - she’d been too busy worrying about school to worry about much else - so this was new territory for her.

Natalia was glad that Ali was there to help her get ready. She was glad that she had a friend who was willing to pick through her closet and help her find something that was cute enough to make a good impression but comfortable enough to wear for a few hours. She was nervous, a good kind of anxious that filled her stomach with butterflies and had her pacing her bedroom as Ali pulled the final piece of clothing from her closet.

“It’s going to be fine,” Ali laughed as she watched Natalia glance in the mirror at her makeup once more. She’d gone simple, opted for a natural look that only enhanced Natalia’s looks, and reached out to slap her shoulder to keep her from touching her eyebrow. “You’re going to wipe off my hard work. Here, get dressed. Would you mind dropping me off at my place on your way?”

“No, of course not,” Natalia assured her as she grabbed the garments from Ali’s hand and stepped into her bathroom to change. “It’s on my way. That’ll keep me from being too early, too.”

“I was at least a little strategic in getting you ready,” Ali pointed out as she waited for Natalia to exit the bathroom. “Have you warned him that you’re a chronic overachiever who can’t be late and has, like, forty calendars to make sure you don’t miss any deadlines yet?”

“I only have three,” Natalia defended as she emerged from the bathroom, smoothing the top she wore. “I keep them in different places so I always know what I need to be doing. How does this look?”

Ali brought her hand to her chest and faked a sniffle as she caught sight of Natalia. She had gone for simple here, too, and pulled a high-waisted black, button down mini-skirt, a white short sleeve top, and a distressed denim jacket. She handed her a necklace, one of the few pieces of jewelry Natalia owned, as well as a bracelet before she glanced at the two options for shoes she’d pulled out of the closet.

“How tall is he?” Ali asked as she looked between the pair of ankle boots and flats on the floor in front of her.

“Uh, very.” Natalia tried not to sound too excited at that - she’d always been fond of taller men - and Ali nodded in appreciation.

“Boots it is, then. Okay, I think you’re ready. Do you have any pictures of this guy? I’m curious as fuck now,” Ali hummed as she watched Natalia slip her feet into the boots.

“Mm, yeah, he sent me a picture of him and his dog earlier.” She reached for her cellphone, unplugging it from the charger, and opened her text thread with Luke to show Ali the photo he’d sent her. He had the same unique smile he’d shown her the day they met and his clear blue eyes were on display as he’d pulled his hair away from his face. He was cute, far cuter than anyone she’d ever dated, and she felt a small amount of pride at the impressed look on Ali’s face.

“He looks familiar,” she mumbled, after agreeing that he was gorgeous, “I don’t know where I’d know him from, though.”

“Maybe you saw him on Tinder or something,” Natalia offered with a shrug as she locked her phone and dropped it into her bag. “Or maybe he’s friends with one of your boyfriends.”

“Maybe,” Ali shrugged as she grabbed her bag and led the way out of Natalia’s apartment. “I don’t even keep track anymore. Did I tell you about Jason? I would drop out and become a trophy wife for that man any day.”

Natalia listened to Ali share a story about her latest boyfriend - one she agreed was gorgeous and seemed sweeter and a little more put together than the guys Ali usually went for - as she drove her back to her apartment. She realized, as they waited at a red light, that she would get to join the conversation about dates the next time they interacted and felt a small thrill at the idea. She usually had very little to contribute when Ali and Nicole spoke about their partners - other than the occasional, “I’m glad I’m single,” when they discussed the follies of man - and couldn’t wait to tell them all about her date.

As Natalia pulled into the parking lot of Ali’s apartment complex, Ali reached into her bag and pulled a few foil squares from one of the pockets. She took Natalia’s hand off the steering wheel as soon as she’d put the car in park and placed the condoms in her hand before she patted it and grinned. “You never know what you’ll need, so, just in case.”

With that and a grin that made Natalia roll her eyes, Ali climbed out of the car and sent a wave in her direction before bounding up the stairs. Natalia remained in the parking spot for a second, pausing to collect her thoughts and take a deep breath, before she shoved the condoms into her bag, pulled out of the parking lot and made her way to Oak.

When Luke asked if she had any preferences for their date, her first thought was of Oak. It was a bar that couldn’t be considered a dive but was also a far cry from the swanky clubs in other parts of the city. It was nice but not too nice. Like Molly’s, the bar was Instagrammable - a key factor in its popularity with college students as the drinks were a little pricier than two dollar beer but not unreasonable for an every now and again sort of thing - and encouraged patrons to dress a little nicer than the go-to athleisure look. Everything about it read 1920s speakeasy, except the patio. Natalia loved the patio, hidden off to the side with little wooden benches and cool metal tables surrounded by walls covered in ivy, and she was glad the weather was nice enough that she could request they sit out there.

The interior was always a little dark but Natalia thought it was kind of romantic as the lighting was supplemented by tea candles on the tables. However, the music - an array of jazz - was usually a little too loud for conversation. Because of that, she hoped that Luke wouldn’t mind if they ordered their drinks and took them outside so they could talk.

When Natalia arrived (only five minutes early, a rare feat for her as she usually arrived with twenty minutes to spare), she was pleasantly surprised to see Luke waiting for her near the front steps. Although she’d found him attractive upon first meeting him, dressed in basketball shorts and looking like he’d just woken up, he looked even better dressed up.

He had also opted for simple and wore plain black jeans and a wine red button down. He left the first few buttons undone and Natalia imagined that if she were a cartoon character, her eyes would be hearts by now. She wanted to stare at him for a moment longer but she didn’t want to keep him waiting. She took another moment, another deep breath, before she climbed out of the car and crossed the parking lot to join him.

“Hi.”

Luke lifted his head, turning his attention away from his cellphone, and grinned at the sight of Natalia. He quickly locked the device and shoved it into his pocket as he returned her greeting. “Hi.” He paused, his eyes raking over her body and taking in the sight of her, before he added, “You look beautiful.”

Without thinking, with only a giddy nervousness filling her mind, Natalia grinned and returned, “So do you.”

She and Luke stood there, taking one another in with pink cheeks and silly smiles, for far too long. It wasn’t awkward, the silence was appreciative and punctuated by shy grins and quiet giggles, and Natalia would have been content to spend the evening sharing heart-eyed looks with Luke had another couple not walked by, breaking the spell.

“Do you want to head in?” Luke asked, glancing at the door a few feet to his left before returning his gaze to Natalia. “I’ve never been here before.”

Natalia glanced up at him - the height difference was still noticeable, even with her heeled boots - and smiled as they entered the main room. “It’s nice. I’ve been here a few times but, I’ll be honest, I usually go to this place called The Door.”

“The Door? Why here, then, and not there?” Luke asked as they approached the bar and and each reached for a drink menu.

“I didn’t want to run into every professor in my department.” When Luke raised an eyebrow at that, Natalia shook her head and quickly added, “Everyone in the department goes there for drinks and I didn’t think it would fun to have my advisor a few tables over as we tried to talk. I chose this place because I don’t really venture too far from campus. LA is… overwhelming.”

“That’s fair,” Luke acknowledged as they waited for the bartender to make his way to them. He turned to look at Natalia, an easy smile on his lips and blue eyes alight with intrigue, as he asked, “You’re not from here?”

“Is anyone?” Luke laughed at Natalia’s quip and she offered him a smile in return. “No, I grew up in Oakland. It was a different vibe. What about you? You’re not from LA.”

“I’m not,” he confirmed with a shake of his head as he moved to stand a little closer to her to let another couple access the bar, “I’m from Australia. I’ve been here for a really long time, though.”

Natalia could smell Luke’s cologne and bit back a sigh as he met her eyes once again. It was hard to keep her train of thought with him looking directly at her, the longer she stared at him, the more beautiful she found him, but she managed to ask, “Yeah? What brought you to LA?”

As Luke opened his mouth to answer, the bartender approached the pair of them to take their drink orders. Luke gestured for her to order first and she chose the only thing on the menu with vodka - the only liquor she didn’t really hate - while Luke opted for the drink with rum. They started a tab - on Luke’s card, despite Natalia’s resistance - before she gestured for him to follow her to the patio with their drinks.

“Okay, so, what brought you to LA?” Natalia repeated as they each took a seat at one of the small metal tables The lighting was better outside, a little brighter than the candlelit interior, and she had to remind herself not to stare as she waited for Luke’s answer.

“I’m in a band. We came out here to follow our dreams.” Natalia wasn’t exactly surprised to hear that Luke was a musician. He looked the part, with shaggy blonde curls and chipped nail polish on a few fingers as well as a sort of confidence about him that she’d only seen in the wannabe rockstars she knew from home, so she nodded.

“Would I know your music?”

Luke smiled at her, a sparkle of mischief in his eyes, and shrugged. The look on his face suggested there was a joke that Natalia wasn’t in on and she scrunched her eyebrows in mild confusion as he asked, “I don’t know. What kind of music do you listen to?”

“A little punk - I’m from Oakland, we have a killer punk scene,” she defended when Luke blinked in surprise. He held his hands up in surrender,  a laugh falling from his lips, and gestured for her to continue. “Um, a lot of stuff that was released before I was born? My dad was in a punk band in high school and a grunge band in college and my mom was a riot grrrl. I grew up listening to whatever they were listening to and whatever their bands played and it’s still pretty prominent in my playlists. So, punk and grunge and a lot of classic rock.”

Luke looked mildly impressed by Natalia’s taste and nodded appreciatively. “Yeah, you probably wouldn’t know any of our stuff.” Luke laughed, again looking like he knew something she didn’t, before he took a sip of his drink. She shrugged, a playful smile of her own on her lips, and he shook his head. “I wouldn’t have expected that but that’s way cooler than me. I listen to a lot of pop punk, a little more alternative. And classic rock.”

“Nothing wrong with pop punk. I love blink. And I was super into All Time Low in high school.”

The conversation hit a short lull, both Luke and Natalia glancing at one another over the tops of their drinks, but it wasn’t truly awkward. They had yet to figure out how to interact with one another, which was to be expected, so Natalia offered a suggestion to break the ice. “Want to play twenty questions?”

Luke perked up, the full toothed grin returning, and nodded as he leaned on his elbows and met her gaze across the table. “That sounds like the perfect idea. You want to start?”

Natalia nodded and scrutinized Luke as she thought up her first question.  She knew that he was from Australia and that he was in a band she probably hadn’t heard of. She knew that he had a dog and that he liked pop punk. “Do you have any siblings?”

“Two brothers, Ben and Jack. You’re in school, what are you studying?” Luke had an adorable habit of tilting his head to show his engagement in the conversation and Natalia bit back a dreamy sigh as she watched him tap his glass to the beat of the song - the patio had a stream of top 40 hits playing and she didn’t recognize any of them but, judging by the way his eyes lit up when this one came on, he did.

“Health communication. Basically, my line of research is that everyone defines health differently and you can’t expect all people to react the same way to the same messages. There is no universal definition of health.” Again, Luke looked surprised and impressed. He nodded, thankful that she’d given a bit of clarification on what she meant by health communication, and waited for her to ask her question. “What’s the best thing about being in a band?”

Luke lit up at her question, his smile growing into the tongue-pressed-to-teeth grin she was growing to adore. “Is it a cop out if I say everything?” When she nodded, Luke made a show of groaning and pouted for a moment before laughing and shaking his head. “This is going to sound really cheesy but being able to spend my time with my best friends. I love the guys, they’re my brothers at this point, and getting to work with them is all I ever could’ve asked for.”

Natalia felt her heart melt at Luke’s answer. She cooed and when Luke’s cheeks went pink, she reassured him, “That’s the sweetest answer you could’ve given. That’s really awesome. I barely know you but I’m happy for you.”

“Thanks.” Luke laughed, cheeks still flushed and eyes crinkling as he watched Natalia take another sip of her drink. “What are your friends like?” He was curious, as they were on the subject, and he wanted to know if the people Natalia surrounded herself with were as interesting as she was.

“Strange. I have my cohort, the two girls I started my master’s program with, and then I have a few friends from home but it’s a pretty small group of very different people and I don’t know where I would be without them.” It was Luke’s turn to coo, his smile soft and his cheeks still pink from a combination of the heat, the alcohol, and his affection, and Natalia dipped her head to get away from his gaze. “In your band, what’s your job? Guitarist, vocalist…?”

“Both of those, actually. I play guitar and sing. Ash, the guy that was with me in the coffee shop, is our drummer.”

“You know, I could’ve guessed that. You’ve got the lead singer look,” Natalia teased. She grinned at Luke’s raised eyebrows and shrugged. “I think it’s the hair, rockstar. But it looks good on you.”

Luke rolled his eyes, a playful gesture accompanied by laughter, and stuck his chin out indignantly. “Looks can be deceiving,” he reminded her, a playful glare on his face as he added, “You keep surprising me at every turn.” When she titled her head, curious as to what he meant, Luke smiled and gestured to Natalia’s empty glass. “That’s a good thing, I promise. And this isn’t my question,” he clarified, a playfully pointed look accompanying his statement, "but would you like another drink?”

“I’d love one. Using that time to think up another question?” Her accusation was playful, her grin gave her away, but Luke played along but giving her a pout.

“How can you think so little of me? I’m not,” Luke denied, his grin bright as he stood to grab another round of drinks. “But I’ll give you that time to think about your answer. Thoughts on social media? I’ll be back.”

Natalia watched Luke disappear through the side door, a bright grin on her lips. Luke was cute, sweet, and fun. The conversation was flowing better than she imagined it would.  She was glad that the hope she’d gleaned from her text conversations with him wasn’t misplaced and found herself itching to continue the conversation as she listened to a song she vaguely recognized as one of Dua Lipa’s filter through the patio area.

True to his word, Luke returned in a matter of minutes with fresh drinks in hand and an expectant look on his face. “So, thoughts?”

“I think it’s a useful tool in some cases and utterly useless and damaging in others. It’s helpful in emergencies, getting the word out quickly, but it’s creating a weird culture and I don’t like it. I don’t have any social media profiles aside from Facebook - my mom likes to video chat and doesn’t have an iPhone so, no FaceTime, I just use it for Messenger - and LinkedIn.” Natalia was used to the looks she got from others when she divulged her lack of social media and Luke was no different. He looked shocked but almost impressed.

“That’s really awesome. I don’t use mine much but I think it’d feel weird if I didn’t have them.”

“I mean, you’re a musician. It probably helps get the word out there, build a fanbase, all the marketing stuff. I’m an academic. The only thing I could post on Instagram is a bad selfie taken under florescent library lighting,” Natalia joked as she reached for her drink.

“No faking your life for the ‘Gram?” Luke asked, genuinely curious and interested in hearing her take on social media. It wasn’t often that he ran into people like her, not in his life, so he felt compelled to hear more.

“No, it doesn’t seem worth it. It seems like too much work and, honestly, I don’t want the attention. You have these kids that are, like, twelve blowing up online and that just seems so stressful. I don’t want the world watching my every move. I’m fine in the shadows.”

An odd look crossed Luke’s face at Natalia’s reluctance to be seen and she almost asked him about it. She didn’t understand what the issue was with her not wanting notoriety or her face to be plastered all over Instagram but the look was gone so quickly that she felt like she must have imagined it. So, instead of dwelling, she turned to her next question. “If you were stuck on an island, what three things would you bring with you?”

The conversation continued well past twenty questions. Luke was genuinely interested in her research, asking questions about her reasons for choosing such an emotionally taxing topic and what she planned to do with her research when she finished, and it was nice to just explain rather than defend her choices. She was interested in his music, curious about the songwriting process and the way he dealt with writer’s block from a creative standpoint, and it was nice to talk to someone who had no idea what his life was really like.

They found themselves talking until one of the staff members stuck their head out the door and informed them that it was last call. They’d each only had two drinks, the last was sipped over a matter of hours as they’d been talking too much to really pay attention to anything other than one another, and Natalia was slightly disappointed that it was time to say goodnight as they headed in to close out the tab.

Luke, like Natalia, dragged his feet as they left the bar and lingered near the front steps. He looked just as crestfallen as she did, not ready for their night to be over but not wanting to give her the wrong impression by asking her to come home with him. They liked one another, really and truly, and neither wanted to rush into things. It felt nice, just getting to know one another without the pressure of their lives closing in on them, and they wanted to keep it that way for as long as they could.

“I know this might be too soon,” Luke began, shifting his weight from foot to foot as he met Natalia’s gaze with a shy smile, “but would you want to go out again tomorrow? Maybe for dinner? I have rehearsal tomorrow afternoon but we could do something after that.”

Natalia grinned, a giddy smile that was contagious as Luke matched her grin with one of his own, and nodded. “Definitely. I need to spend the day writing but I’m totally free tomorrow night,” she agreed readily, not caring if she looked eager as Luke looked just as giddy as she did.

“Good, awesome. I, uh, I’ll let you know what time we’re supposed to finish tomorrow.” Luke paused, his grin softening as he realized that Natalia looked gorgeous even in the harsh glow of unflattering streetlights, before he added, “I had a really good time tonight. I’m still sorry for spilling coffee on you but I don’t regret it. Not if it gets me a date like this.”

“I really liked that dress,” Natalia teased, her cheeks flaring pink beneath the foundation she wore as she tried not to coo at Luke’s compliment, “but I’m kind of glad you spilled coffee on me. I think this date more than made up for it.”

Luke and Natalia stared at one another, grinning like lovesick fools and happy that the date had gone better than either of them hoped, before Luke stepped a little closer and asked, “Do you mind if I… can I…?”

Natalia didn’t have a rule against kissing on the first date, she didn’t have any first date rules as she decided she would just see where life took her, but if she did, she would’ve broken it for Luke. As his hand brushed her cheek, she melted into his embrace and breathed a quiet sigh as she nodded just enough for him to feel.

Luke placed a barely there peck to her lips, a soft kiss that felt more like something being taken from her than given, and she wanted to reach out and pull him back into her as he straightened up and smiled. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Natalia.”

“See you tomorrow.”

They both lingered for a second, staring at one another, before Natalia gave him a final shy smile and turned to head to her car. Her head was so far in the clouds that she didn’t notice the small dip in the ground and felt her knees hit pavement before she realized what had happened.

She wasn’t sure if she was glad that Luke was there or embarrassed he’d seen her fall as he rushed over and kneeled beside her. The contents of her bag had spilled across the parking lot and she dropped her head in embarrassment as she groaned. “Fun fact about me, I’m great at destroying the mood.”

“I tripped and dumped coffee on you during our first meeting, a little clumsiness isn’t going to destroy anything. Here, let me help you,” he assured her as he began reaching for the little things that had fallen out of her bag. Chapstick, hand sanitizer, gum, a pencil bag; all things she didn’t mind Luke seeing. However, when he grabbed the few condoms Ali left her with, Natalia groaned again.

“I wasn’t… I didn’t intend for anything to happen. My friend Ali just… threw them at me,” she explained as she shoved the items back into her bag and took Luke’s hand for him to help her back onto her feet. “Not that there’s anything wrong with sex on a first date, do whatever you want, I just… Don’t want?”

Luke bit back a laugh at Natalia’s defeated expression and shook his head. “It’s okay, you don’t have to explain. Better to be safe than sorry. And, I get it. Tonight was nice. I enjoyed it as it was. And I’m still really looking forward to seeing you again tomorrow night.”

“I’m glad. And I am looking forward to seeing you again, too. Hopefully neither of us will trip and we’ll be leaving injury and coffee stain free,” she joked as she brushed some stray gravel from her knees. “I’ll see you then. Have fun at rehearsal.”

“I would say have fun writing but, I’m not gonna lie, I don’t know if that’s appropriate to wish you?”

“Probably not, no one enjoys writing for academia, but I appreciate the thought. Bye, Luke.”

Luke waved Natalia off and waited until she’d gotten safely into her car before heading for his own. She still felt a little embarrassed - she knew that her cheeks were neon red beneath her foundation - but his handling of the situation made her feel that much better about him. He was a good guy, solid and sweet, and Natalia couldn’t wait to see him again.

___________________________________________________________

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[bangtan-sonyeonddaeng]

Yoongi Soulmate AU| You switch bodies

Ah, soulmates. What a wonderful thing they are. Someone that is literally destined to be with you, is the perfect match for you to spend the rest of your life with. The one person you know you can be yourself around and they will love you unconditionally. But the trouble with soulmates, is that at any given moment you switch bodies with each other. And you don’t switch back until you find each other. It could be when you’re kids, it could be when you were well into adulthood. Fate has a funny way of deciding when the time is right. So when you go to bed that night, you really weren’t expecting to wake up in your soulmate’s body. 

You look up at the ceiling, noticing that something feels a little off. The bed under you feels a little more luxurious than you’re used to. As you run your hands over the sheets you realize that they definitely are not yours. You sit up abruptly, taking a look around the room and realizing this is not your room at all. You glance down and look at yourself, now noticing that you are not in your body. You can’t help but squeal excitedly when you realize you are in your soulmate’s body. Well, at least you try to anyway but your voice is much deeper than normal and it more comes out as a yell. You immediately glance around the room for a mirror, feeling really curious about what your soulmate looks like. You spot a door that you think either leads to a closet or a bathroom. You immediately run up to it and throw it open. Holy shit this closet is bigger than my whole apartment my soulmate is loaded. You think to yourself. You spot a mirror in the corner and walk over to it, standing in front of it and literally scream when you see who is staring back at you.

“Holy shit. Oh my god. Yoongi is my soulmate. Min Yoongi is my soulmate!” Your scream seems to have alerted someone as you hear the bedroom door crash against the wall. You turn around and see Hoseok standing in the door way.

“Yoongi?! Are you okay?” 

“Holy shit.. Hoseok...” 

“Yes? What’s wrong with you? You’re acting really weird.” 

“Um.. I’m not-” Just then Jimin also bursts into the room too. 

“Hyung? What’s wrong why were you- Oh Hey Hobi.” You feel so overwhelmed at the moment. Not only have you just found out Yoongi is your soulmate, but all of the other members are seeming to file into the room now having heard the commotion. 

“Listen uh.. everyone I’m not Yoongi..” 

“What do you mean? Did you hit your head last night or something? Are you sleep walking?” Hoseok reaches out and pokes your face and you smack his hand away. “Sure seem to act like him.” Suddenly the pieces seem to click together as Jungkook yells. 

“That’s his soulmate!” They all turn and look at Jungkook in surprise.

“There’s no way..”

“Um hi everyone? My name is y/n.” You shyly wave at them and blush and Jungkook cracks up at seeing your gestures in his Hyung’s body. 

“Awww Yoongi is so cute now!” 

“What are you talking about Yoongi has always been cute.” You scold Jungkook for saying otherwise. 

“Wait are you an army?” You freeze at Jimin’s question, suddenly feeling very nervous about their reaction for your answer.

“Um.. yes...” 

“Well shit this is bad.”

“Why is this bad?”

“Do you have any idea how much damage a fan could do in his body?! We need to find out where Yoongi is and stat.” You’re offended by how quickly Namjoon has seemed to turn on you without even knowing you.

“Okay wait a minute. You don’t even know me so why would you even assume something like that? And the fact that I am a fan of you all means that I deeply care and love every single one of you. I would never do anything to harm your careers or image. You should be thankful I’m a fan and not someone who’s just after your money or fame. Besides I’m his soulmate. You see how wonderful of a person Yoongi is do you really think I would be a horrible human being and be paired with him?” Namjoon’s gaze immediately softens. 

“You’re right y/n.. I’m sorry I didn’t mean that.”

“It’s okay. You’re forgiven.” 

“But anyway I’d really like to get back into my own body anyway.. so anything you all can do to help would be greatly appreciated.” Just then Hoseok’s phone starts ringing. 

“I don’t recognize this number.” 

“Oh! Wait that’s probably me.. or Yoongi rather.” You take his phone and recognize your number. You answer it and put it on speaker.

“Hi y/n! Or should I say Yoongi.” 

“Oh.. hey where’s Hoseok?” 

“He’s right here. I just wanted a chance to talk to you. How you liking things over in my body?”

“You’re um.. very cute. I was actually really happy when I looked in the mirror and saw your face staring back at me.”

“Awwwww hyung that’s so cute!!! Or should I call you Noona?” Taehyung teases. 

“Listen here you little brat when I get back in my own body you’re in for it you hear me?” You giggle at their arguing. 

“What the fuck? I don’t giggle. Shit, that sounds weird.” 

“Well maybe you should do it more often it sounds cute.” You tell him. 

“Also why don’t you have anything to eat in your house? All I can find is instant ramen and you have like 10 dollars in your wallet.”

“Well sorry mister rich and famous we can’t all be millionaires like you.” You tease.

“I’m sorry I didn’t mean to sound rude.” 

“It’s okay Yoongi, I’m just messing with you.” 

“By the way y/n..” 

“Yes?”

“I really appreciate all these photos you have of us hanging in your room. And my photo card in the back of your phone case. So I take it I’m your bias then right?” You blush and groan as you remember all of the BTS Items you have sitting in your room right now, on top of all of the merch with Yoongi’s name on it. “Oh, wait what’s this? A sweater with my name on the back, a hat with my name on it.. And-”

“Okay! Okay I get it yes Yoongi you are my bias. You have been since the start please don’t go through my things.” 

“I won’t. I promise. Just wanted to tease you a little bit and show you what it feels like is all.”

“You both are so cute together it’s disgusting.” Jin retorts. 

“Alright so! Anyway, everyone can we figure out how we’re going to get Yoongi over here please? Because I don’t exactly have a thousand dollars to get on a plane to come to South Korea.. or rather Yoongi doesn’t.. God this is so confusing.” 

“Guess you’ll just have to come to me then huh?” 

“I can do that. Right?” You glance around the room, uncertain if they had any concerts or schedules coming up.

“Well, I mean we did have a photo shoot today but I think focusing on getting Yoongi back here needs to be top priority.” You nod at Jimin, agreeing with his words. 

“Well, then I guess I’m getting on a plane then.”

“Sounds good. I’ll see you soon then y/n.” 

“See you soon, Yoongi.” You glance around the room at everyone, suddenly feeling nervous that all eyes are on you. “Um.. do you all mind leaving me alone for a little while to pack? I need to get ready and mentally prepare myself for all this..” They all nod and leave the room, wanting to respect your privacy. Everyone leaves except for Hoseok who stands there awkwardly shuffling his feet back and forth.

“Hobi? Is everything okay?”

“It’s just.. I’m really happy that Yoongi has you now. He doesn’t always show it but.. I think he was beginning to wonder if he was ever going to meet his soulmate and it was really starting to get him down. I can only imagine how happy he is right now and I just want to thank you. And tell you that I hope you’ll take good care of him.”

“Aww Hobi come here!” You cross the room to where he is and hug him tightly. He hesitates for a moment before hugging you back.

“This feels really weird. Yoongi hardly ever hugs me.” You laugh and pull away apologizing. 

“Do you want to help me pack? I don’t know where any of his stuff is..”

“Sure! I’d love to.” Hoseok helps you pack up your suitcase while you recruited Namjoon to get you on the soonest flight back home. You’re all packed up and ready to go when Namjoon comes in and announces your flight is leaving in an hour. You rush out the door with Hoseok to head to the airport. He had offered to ride with you so you wouldn’t need to be by yourself. He walks you over to the gate, wishing you good luck and giving your hand a squeeze before you begin to board. You text your number from Yoongi’s phone, letting him know it’s you and you’re leaving now. You’re surprised when you receive a video message back. You open it and put your headphones in as the plane is taking off to help distract you. 

“Oh wow. You got a flight that quick. I’m really excited now. I really can’t wait to meet you officially. You seem like a really sweet person. And you’re absolutely beautiful. I couldn’t believe when I woke up and looked in the mirror I was thinking, holy shit how did I get so lucky? I can’t wait to get to know you better. I asked Namjoon to transfer some money into your account so I am going to go to the store and get some stuff to cook you a nice dinner. Ah, I’m not good with this kind of stuff but.. I really was beginning to wonder if I even had a soulmate. You came into my life at just the right time and I want to thank you for that. Have a safe flight. I’ll be seeing you soon.” He waves and blows a kiss at the camera and you smile widely, setting the phone down and deciding to take a nap before you land. 

Your flight went smoothly. You had texted Yoongi to let him know you were on your way to the house now and should be there in about an hour give or take depending on traffic and airport security. You’re standing outside your door. You don't know why you knock, it’s your own house. But you stand there waiting anxiously for Yoongi to come to the door. When he opens the door and your eyes finally meet you feel an odd feeling in the pit of your stomach. The world goes dark only for a moment and now suddenly you are staring back at Yoongi. 

“Am I back in my own body now?” He asks. You nod your head. 

“You wanna come in? You offer.” 

“I mean I’ve kind of made myself at home the past few hours but sure.” You giggle and step aside allowing him in.

“That giggle sounds much better coming from your voice.” You blush and continue with him into the kitchen, mouth watering at how delicious the food smells and looks.

“Wow.. Yoongi this looks amazing!” 

“Only the best for my soulmate.” You turn around and throw yourself into his arms, hugging him tightly around the waist. 

“I can’t believe this is actually happening.” 

“It almost feels too good to be true.” He kisses the top of your head, but you want his lips elsewhere. You place your hands on either side of his face. 

“Can I kiss you?” You ask, not wanting to rush into anything that might make him uncomfortable. 

“Please..” You feel like the world is moving in slow motion as you move forward and finally, press your lips against his. It’s a quick peck at first, testing the waters and seeing how it feels to finally be kissing your soulmate. You pull away but Yoong immediately latches his fingers in your shirt and tugs you back into him, kissing you more passionately this time. He deepens the kiss and backs you into the counter, caging you in with his arms. Your breath is quickening and your pulse is thudding rapidly in your chest as he move his tongue along the bottom of your lip. You don’t hesitate to open it and allow his tongue to explore your mouth. He moves away after a few more moments, needing to catch his breath. You move in to kiss him again and he chuckles at you, kissing your nose instead. 

“Ah, you gotta give me a minute baby. That was.. wow..” 

“I haven’t felt anything like that in my life.”

“Me either. Who knew kissing your soulmate could feel like that?” He kisses your forehead and then dishes out dinner for the two of you. You sit down on the couch facing one another and talking about everything so you can get to know each other better. At the end of the night Yoongi stands in the kitchen, unsure if he should ask to stay with you tonight or get a hotel. You move to go towards your bedroom and turn around when you notice he isn’t following you.

“Are you coming?” He smiles and walks after you. You both settle into bed, laying side by side with your hands linked in the middle. 

“So what are we going to do about tomorrow?” 

“Ah, well I have to go back to South Korea but I wanted to know if you would come with me..” 

“You really want me to go back with you?” 

“Yes.. I don’t, like I know you’re my soulmate and all but we just met and I don’t want this to sound weird but the thought of just leaving after meeting you makes my chest hurt.” You bring a hand up over your heart, you’ve been feeling the same way.

“It’s not weird.. actually I have been thinking the same thing I just wasn’t sure how to ask you.”  He sighs in relief, bringing your hand up to his lips and kissing the back of it.

“That’s a big relief. Wow okay. Great. So tomorrow I can buy you a plane ticket and we can go back together. You can officially meet all the members too!”

“I already met them though.” 

“Yeah but, you met them as me that’s different..” You giggle and roll over onto your side so you can lay on his chest. 

“That actually sounds lovely, Yoongi.” You both get quiet after that and you’re just about to fall asleep when Yoongi’s voice makes you perk up.

“I still can’t believe I got to meet you..”

“I should be saying that to you. Why were you so certain we weren't ever going to find each other?” Yoongi grows quiet next to you. “If you don’t want to talk about it that’s okay too..” 

“Ah, no it’s just.. A really good friend of mine never experienced the switch. He believes his soulmate is no longer living and it just terrified me that the same might be the case for me since I was waiting so long.” You turn to face him and he does the same, reaching your hand out to cup his face as you lean in and press a light peck to his lips.

“Well you know, fate has a funny way of knowing just when you need your soulmate the most. I think we both came into each other’s lives at the right time.” 

“I think you’re right y/n.” You roll onto your other side and he wraps his arms around your waist, pulling you into him. 

“Can I ask you something Yoongi?”

“Of course baby.” 

“How many times did you look at me naked?” You feel him move and suddenly a pillow is repeatedly being whacked onto your shoulder. You burst out laughing as Yoongi throws the pillow to the side and starts tickling you mercilessly. 

“You’re such a brat you know that!”

“It’s a completely valid question!” 

“I would never disrespect you like that.. but for your information it was only when I had to change out of my pajamas okay?” You chuckle at him and kiss his forehead, settling back down into bed. 

“I was just teasing you.” 

“You’re insufferable.” 

“But you’ll grow to love me.”  The fond look that washes over Yoongi’s features makes your heart race.

“Yeah, I think I will.”

[ladyfogg]

May I? - 22/?

May I? - 22/?

Fic Summary: Ensign Faith Diaz struggles to hide her mental illness from her fellow shipmates aboard the Enterprise until an intrigued Data goes out of his way to try to understand her behavior. At his insistence, Faith tries to figure out what she’s truly passionate about and eventually seeks the professional help she needs. Fic Masterpost.

A/N: I’m not letting this sinus infection get me down. I’ve been working on this chapter for a long time and I’m glad to finally be able to post it. Enjoy!

Fic Rating: NC-17

Pairing: Data/Female OC

Warnings: tw: depression, tw: anxiety, fluff, friends to lovers, eventual smut

Screenshot by @ readysteadytrek

Faith was more comfortable than she had ever been in her entire life. 

She and Data lay in bed and had been there for quite some time. Draped over his chest, her face was tucked into his neck while her fingers played idly with his hair. She was encased by him. Data's arms held her close, his scent clung to her, his heat warmed her, and she never wanted the moment to end. 

"What are you thinking?" she asked. 

"I am currently reorganizing my collection of twentieth-century Earth literature, running diagnostics on several experiments, planning how to display my painting during my art show, updating the sexual list I have created for us…" He abruptly fell silent. 

When he didn't continue, Faith pulled back slightly to look up at him. "What's wrong? Why'd you stop?" 

"I realized you may be insulted that I did not list you first. Please know that I am always thinking of you in some capacity." 

Faith beamed at him. "I'm not insulted at all," she assured him. "I know you're thinking of me somewhere in there. You're always so attentive and thoughtful. I really appreciate it." 

She meant it.  

“I appreciate you as well. Your companionship has become a source of immense comfort to me.”

Her heart fluttered and Faith’s smile widened as she snuggled against Data once more. There were several long precious moments of silence before Data spoke again. 

"Was our sexual experience to your satisfaction? If you require more stimuli I can make physical adjustments." 

"Don't change yourself physically for me or anyone else for that matter. Making love with you was wonderful, not just for physical satisfaction but because it was you​​." 

Data offered her one of his soft smiles and her heart melted. She loved that smile. Settling back down, she inhaled the unique smell of his skin. It was synthetic with metallic undertones and she had such a Pavlovian response to it, it instantly put her at ease.

“While we’re on the subject, however, I’m curious to know what you thought,” she said, trying to keep the anxiety from her voice. She knew Data would never be mean or cruel but that didn’t automatically help her confidence. 

“Intriguing and enjoyable,” Data said. “I am certain there were several emotions I experienced during our intercourse that I look forward to processing. But it was memorable and I will be glad when we can do it again.”

Faith grinned. If her body wasn’t so comfortable and she herself wasn’t struggling to keep her eyes open, she’d suggest they go for another round. 

“Great. Really great,” she said, stifling a yawn.

Data glanced down at her. “You should rest.”

“I know. Five more minutes.”

“Alright.”

They fell into silence again, Faith resuming playing with Data’s hair. Eventually, her eyes were staying closed for long stretches of time so she reluctantly detached herself from the android in order to get comfortable. 

“Are you going to dream with me or are you going to get up and work?” she asked. 

“I will dream as you sleep,” Data said. “I find myself in no rush to get up.”

Smiling, Faith snuggled under the blankets, tucking herself into Data’s side. “Don’t forget to turn off the ‘do not disturb’ program,” she said through another yawn. 

“Already done. We did not receive any messages.”

Data adjusted the blanket around Faith before turning on his side to face her. He draped his arm around her waist, the weight of it comforting her instantly. It almost felt like a weighted blanket. A very cute and sexy weighted blanket. 

“Would you like me to wake you up when I rise?” Data asked. 

“Yeah. I don’t want to spend the day sleeping. Not when there’s packing and moving to be done.” She found herself smiling sleepily. “I’m really excited to move in with you.”

“It will definitely save you time in the mornings.”

“I don’t care about that. I just want to spend more time with you.”

“Oh. Yes, I supposed this will make that easier as well.”

Chuckling, Faith gave Data a peck on his cheek before finally settling in for sleep. “Sweet dreams, silly man.”

“Sleep well, Faith.”

Making love to Data had not been on her list of things to do for the day. They had both been so busy, she honestly hadn’t given it much thought. But between the romantic dinner, asking her to move in, and the gorgeous painting he did, she knew she wanted to give him something to show how much she appreciated him. It seemed like the perfect moment to take that step and she was so damn glad she had. 

It had been the most passionate experience of her life. She hadn’t been with many men before him so her experience was fairly limited. Regardless, his focus on her was unparalleled. And it wasn’t just how well he could bring her to ecstasy that thrilled her. It was how eager she herself was to please him. It was a beautiful synchronous give and take, and it made her realize something very important. 

She never wanted to be with anyone else. It was the last thought that crossed her mind before she drifted off to sleep. 

The next thing she knew, Data was calling her name. She awoke abruptly, her body drenched in sweat. Confused, she found Data leaning over her, eyebrows knitted together in concern. 

“What’s going on?” she mumbled, pushing her wild hair back from her face.

“I am sorry to wake you so early but I believe you were having a nightmare,” Data explained. 

Blinking the sleep away, Faith tried to organize her muddled thoughts. “You were? Why?”

“You were making noises in your sleep and moving around quite a bit. You even said my name twice.”

With a frown, Faith slowly pushed herself up to sit. As she tried to recall the remnants of the dream Data pulled her from, all she could remember were feelings and sensations. Firm hands, a hot mouth, pleasure...

Suddenly there was an aching throb between her legs and Faith realized she had not been having a bad dream at all. Quite the opposite. With a sheepish smile, she chuckled. 

“Oh...um, it wasn’t a nightmare.”

Data cocked his head as he studied her. “Was it an erotic dream?”

Cheeks burning with embarrassment, Faith nodded. “I don’t remember details but I’m pretty sure it was.”

“Then I will apologize again for waking you.”

“Don’t apologize. The real thing is much better than any dream.”

Faith cupped the back of Data’s head and pulled him into a kiss. Her arousal was fierce and unchecked, eager for release now that she had sampled pure pleasure. Data seemed surprised at first, not responding until she pressed her body up against his. 

“I see. It was me you were dreaming of,” he said when she broke the kiss. 

“Of course it was you. Who else would it be?”

She kissed him again before he could answer, knowing he probably had a list already on the tip of his tongue. This time his hands came to rest on her hips as he kissed her back, allowing her tongue to stroke his. The memory of their first time together was still fresh in her mind and she couldn’t wait to experience him all over again.

As he lay with her, Faith reached down to take his hand, bringing it to her chest. “Will you touch me, Data?” she asked against his lips. 

“Yes, Faith. I will touch you.”

His hand cupped her breast, massaging and kneading the flesh as his thumb rubbed circles around the sensitive nipple. The desire that had started to wane after she awoke was now back, urging and begging for more. In her impatience, she forgot herself and grabbed Data’s wrist, bringing his hand down between her legs. 

He stilled briefly, causing her to freeze as well.

“Sorry!” she said once she realized how forceful she had been.

“Do not apologize. Your boldness can be very helpful.”

He kissed her again as his fingers stroked her slit, running through the wetness that was already there. Faith melted in his arms, her body instantly responding. She had never felt this physically satisfied with anyone before. Not even herself the times she masturbated. There was something about Data that turned her body on in ways she couldn’t even fathom. 

With his mouth at hers and his thick fingers slipping into her, she couldn’t hold back her moans. They were loud and she was too tired to tried to keep her voice down. 

It didn’t take long for him to bring her completion, a testament to his skill and how wound up she had already been due to her dream. As she came down from her high and allowed the endorphins to rush through her, she gave Data a lazy smile. 

“Perfect. Absolutely perfect.” She kissed him again.

“While I appreciate the compliment, I do believe it is impossible to reach perfection, especially in physical matters. I am sure there are ways I can improve.”

Faith chuckled and shook her head. “Data, you are the most selfless person I ever met. Here I am, basking in the afterglow of an orgasm and you’re worried about how you can make me get off better? Unbelievable. I don’t deserve you.”

“Faith, you deserve the world. I told you so before.”

She cupped his face in her hands. “You deserve it too, Data. You deserve everything you want in life.”

When she leaned in to kiss him, this time he stopped her, gently laying his hands on top of hers. “Unfortunately, there are things that will be forever out of my reach.”

Faith realized her mistake and her happiness waned, instantly feeling guilty. “I’m sorry, babe. I didn’t mean...I know there are things that you want that I can’t provide.”

“It was not my intention to guilt you. I am simply stating the fact that, logically and realistically, I cannot have everything I want.”

“No. No, I don’t suppose you can. But we can get as damn close to it as possible.”

At that, Data offered her a smile. “We can try. As I stated before, I did experience some kind of emotion last night while we were being intimate. It certainly was new and made me feel...different.”

Pulling him into a hug, Faith’s heart ached, knowing there was one thing in the world Data wanted that she could not give him. She could be there for him, care for him, spend her life with him, but she couldn’t make him human. No one could. It was a dream that would forever be out of his reach. 

But Faith wasn’t deterred. True, she couldn’t make him human, but she could make him feel as close to human as he possibly could be. She could treat him no differently than she would a human boyfriend. 

Faith placed gentle kisses on Data’s neck, her hand caressing his arm as it moved down his body. 

“Faith, what are you doing?”

“You said you had some sort of feelings last night. I’m trying to help you experience them again. Would you like me to stop?”

“No, I do not.”

Data remained still as she continued her gentle touches. She closed her eyes, blocking out all other thoughts that didn’t have to do with the man in front of her. Slowly, she pushed against him until he was on his back, allowing her to cover his body with her own. She kissed her way up to his lips, trying to pour all her feelings into what she was doing. She wished she could share them with him. Sometimes she felt like she had too many and they would all spill out at some point. Just their luck. He didn’t have many emotions while she had more than she could handle. 

Data’s arms slid around her waist and he kissed her back, gently at first but then growing bolder as the seconds past. She could feel his cock swelling against her thigh and she adjusted her hips so that he nestled snugly between both thighs, pressing right against her slick center. 

Her hips began to rock in slow circles, the thickness of him sending a chill down her spine. But this moment wasn't about her pleasure, it was about giving Data an experience. She hoped it was working. 

Reaching down, she lifted herself just enough to gently grasp his cock. Continuing her slow movements, she started to stroke him, listening to the hitch in his breathing and taking it as a good sign. She pressed the blunt head of him between her folds. 

Faith took Data into herself, unable to stop the moan that escaped. Data's hand slid into her hair and pulled, drawing her face back so she would meet his gaze. His yellow eyes stared at her intensely as she continued to take him in until his thighs pressed against hers.

By then she was panting, her body trembling with the effort to not move. She was full and hot, shockwaves of pleasure making her shudder. 

"Anything?" she asked, voice husky with want.

Data's lips parted. He brought her face towards his but instead of kissing her, he pressed their foreheads together.

"Please move your hips. I...I think there is something."

Faith did as he asked, raising her hips just enough for him to slide halfway out before she took him all the way in again. 

Data quietly gasped. "Again, please."

Hearing his audible response awakened something primal in her. She repeated the action, clenching around him this time as his cock rubbed her sensitive walls. He made another noise, this one an unmistakable moan. Unable to stop herself, Faith kept moving, her arms circling Data's neck in an effort to draw herself as close to him as possible.

His hands suddenly seized her hips. "Please stop."

She did, even though her body ached and trembled for more. Already she found herself panting and they had barely begun. Before she could ask Data if he was okay, he abruptly sat up, bringing her with him. 

Still straddling him, she placed her knees on either side of his, clinging tightly as she tried not to slip from his grasp. Not that he would let her. 

"This way," he said, those long fingers of his digging into her sweaty flesh. "I like you this way."

Faith whimpered, too strung out to form any coherent words. She rocked up and down on his lap, unable to get proper leverage but not wanting to stop. After several moments, Data seemed to realize she needed assistance because he began to direct her movements for her.

One of her arms reached out so her hand could seize the headboard. Between that and Data's help, Faith was able to lose herself in the pleasure. Each thrust down from her was accompanied by a thrust up from him, burying himself to the hilt every single time.

"Do you feel anything?"

Data nodded. "Yes."

Faith groaned. "Tell me. Tell me, please. What do you feel?"

"I do not know."

His hand suddenly cupped her cheek, preventing her from going for his neck as she was about to do. He made her look at him, with one arm still holding her tight as he thrust into her. 

"Warm. Protective. Excited." The more he listed the more her heart sped up. "Human."

She felt him come, which only served to push her over the precipice herself. He allowed her to kiss him again, his tongue filling her mouth just as his cock filled her.

Once again Faith was surrounded by Data and she knew right then and there that she loved him.

No, she was in love with him. Hopelessly, recklessly, foolishly in love with Data.

Just like the previous night, they lay together for sometime after. Arms and legs tangled together and noses touching.

"What time do you have to get up?" she asked, not wanting to break the spell but knowing that he had a job to do.

"I can lay with you for approximately thirty more seconds before I must prepare for the day."

"Let's make them count."

She tucked her head under his chin and pressed her head to his chest. Data stroked her hair.

"Faith, may I ask you a question?"

"Sure."

"In my last session with Counselor Troi, it was apparent that you had not mentioned to her that we had been intimate, as she was surprised when I brought up the topic. Is there a reason?"

"Nothing drastic, I can assure you. Deanna is my friend. I felt weird talking to her about our sexual life. It's not something I was ever comfortable doing in the past with anyone let alone my friend and counselor. Also, we've been more focused on other topics."

It had taken time for Faith to unpack her feelings in the situation with Fajo. Hell, she still hadn't processed it all.

"I see. I am sorry I told her we had been sexual."

"No need to apologize. She's your counselor too and she's a professional. I don't want you to feel like you have to censor yourself on my behalf."

"Understood." He drew back from their embrace. "I must get ready now."

"Boooooo."

Regardless of her protests, Faith let him get out of bed. She admired his naked body as she always did except this time there was a little perverse glee knowing she had touched and tasted him. Data headed to the bathroom to clean himself before returning to get dressed. 

“I shall be finished with my shift before noon,” he said, pulling a fresh uniform out of his closet. “Perhaps we can have lunch in Ten Forward as we discuss the art show?”

“Sounds great to me. I’ll meet you there.”

“What do you plan to do?”

“I have some packing that needs to get done.” Faith eased herself out of bed, allowing the blanket to stay behind. 

Data smiled and leaned down to give her a kiss. “Do not strain yourself too much by moving. You should also find time to rest today.”

“I will try. Promise.”

Data nodded and turned to leave when Faith stopped him. “Wait,” she giggled. “Your hair. I messed it up when we were making love.”

He waited patiently as she smoothed his hair down. 

"There, perfect." She kissed him again. "Have a great day. I'll see you later."

Data smiled and left. Faith watched him go, still giddy. She was suddenly wide awake and couldn't wait to start her day.

After cleaning herself up and getting dressed, Faith made her way to her quarters. Despite being on the Enterprise for months, she didn't have too many personal belongings. Life in Starfleet had taught her to pack light and even on long-term assignments she couldn't bring herself to take more than the necessities.

When she entered her quarters however, she paused in confusion. There was a stranger sitting on her couch.

"Er, can I help you?" she asked.

The man wore the red and rank of a captain, yet she had never seen him before. His bored expression and overly relaxed demeanor was a stark contrast to those who she saw regularly wearing that uniform. 

"Au contraire, Ms. Diaz," the man said with a grin. "I'm here to help you."

Faith didn't like the sound of that. "I'm sorry, who are you?"

"I'm Q."

Fear and apprehension took hold and Faith's guard went up. "What do you want?" she asked, her tone instantly betraying her emotional state.

"It's not about what I want, dear, Faith. It's about what you want."

"Great. I want you to leave." She was not even remotely interested in what Q had to say. She had heard enough stories about him to know no good would come of their conversation.

Q looked amused. "My reputation precedes me it would seem."

"Correct. I have nothing to say to you. I don't want any trouble, I just want to go about my day."

"Trouble? I don't bring trouble! I bring the truth and hilarious entertainment."

"Cool. Bring it somewhere else."

Faith purposefully turned away from Q and headed to her bedroom. She was dismayed when she found him lounging on her bed. 

"Aren't you even the least bit curious as to why I'm here?" Q asked.

"Not really."

Q pouted. "You're no fun. I thought someone who would willingly date an android would have some sense of humor."

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?"

A large grin spread across Q's face. "That got your attention, didn't it?"

Faith sighed, annoyed that he was able to play her so easily. "Is that what this is about? Me and Data?"

"It's about my curiosity on the subject. I don't understand why he would choose to be in a relationship," The word was said with such disdain. "With a human. Or why you would want to be with a machine."

"He's not a machine," Faith snapped. "He's a person just like everyone else. He's smart, caring, generous, honest…"

"Yeah, yeah, yeah, spare me the defensive drabble," Q cut her off, sitting up on her bed. "That's not why I'm here. I'm here because I want to know what you think can possibly come of this union between a human and an android."

"None of your damn business."

"You don't want to think about the future, do you?" Q pressed. "Too touchy a subject?"

Faith was more than done with this Q person. He was prying into things that were not his business. All she wanted was for him to go away so that she could pack in peace. 

"Why do you care?" she asked, glaring at him. "Me and Data have nothing to do with you. So just, go away."

Faith turned her back on Q but then she heard his fingers snap and suddenly they were no longer in her quarters. 

They stood in the middle of an unfamiliar room, cluttered with knick-knacks and furniture. The landscape out the windows was unfamiliar, though it looked a little like Earth. Faith quickly spun back around to glare at Q. 

“What is this? Where are we?”

“Don’t be so skittish. We’re just taking a little peek into what might be.”

Faith heard a door open and turned in time to see Data walk into the room. He made no reaction to their presence, which made Faith assume he could not see them. His appearance intrigued her, not only because of Q’s cryptic words but also because he wasn’t wearing a Starfleet uniform. Instead, he wore finely tailored pants and a button-down shirt with a blazer. However, she was more intrigued by the stripe of gray hair through his normally jet-black locks. 

He moved around the room, adjusting a large comfy-looking armchair and placing a cup of tea on the side table. Then he left. Before Faith could ask what the hell Q expected her to gain from this, Data returned, this time leading a very old woman by the arm. 

It took Faith a moment to realize the woman was her. 

“What the…?” 

“Scary, isn’t it? I mean, in comparison to most humans you age very gracefully,” Q said, arm slipping around her shoulders. 

Faith watched as Data led the older version of herself over to the chair. She seemed to be having difficulty moving and winced in pain as she sat. Faith felt her stomach churn, watching herself old and weak, being cared for by the man she loved who looked just as he had the day they met. 

“Why would you show me this?” Faith asked, looking at Q. “I already know this is how our relationship would progress. I don’t need the visual.”

“Oh really? You don’t need the visual? Take another look.” He took her chin and turned her face to the scene. “Is this really what you want? Being old and decrepit. Forcing such a superior being to be your nursemaid?”

Faith tried not to let Q’s words get to her but the way he phrased it cut deep. She watched Data bring the teacup to her lips, his smooth hands gently cradling her wrinkled knarled ones. The contrast made her uncomfortable and she shut her eyes. 

Q noticed, letting her go. “Hmm, don’t like the image so much now, do you? Well, it’s what you wanted. But how about I show you something else. Let me show you I think is probably actually going to happen.”

He snapped his fingers and they were back on the Enterprise, this time in Engineering. She saw herself at the main console, less old and knarled, and more like she was normally. Data entered and paused as he saw her but instead of approaching, he continued on, passing by her without a word. 

A second later, Barclay came to stand by her side and the other Faith smiled at him as she would Data. 

Present-day Faith burst into laughter. “I’m sorry,” she said, glancing at Q. “Do you really think this is what’s going to happen? I’m going to leave Data for Barclay? Reg and I are just friends. I have no romantic interest in him whatsoever.” 

“Fine, not him then.” Barclay faded away and was replaced by Geordi. “How’s this?”

From the distance, she saw Data watching her and Geordi. Her counterpart met Data’s gaze and there was a sadness there before she looked away. The distance between them spoke volumes and it was clear they were no longer together. 

“He can’t give you what you want. The depth of emotion and feelings you humans care so much about. I predict you’ll eventually get frustrated and leave him to find someone else who could provide such things.”

Faith glared at Q, arms crossed. “You’re wasting your time! Whatever your little plan is here, it’s not going to work. Besides, you don’t even know me or what I want. How can you possibly think this is what it would be?”

“Okay then, I may not know what you want. But we both know what Data wants.”

This time when the images changed, it took Faith’s breath away. A man walked towards her, his features so familiar and yet strikingly different. Pink skin had replaced pale synthetic imitation, bright blue eyes shone instead of yellow. But that smile. That head tilt. Those were undeniable. 

Faith stared at the human version of Data. 

“Stop it, Q,” she growled through clenched teeth. 

“Ooooo, did I finally hit a nerve?” Q asked, sounding highly amused. 

Faith tore her eyes away from the image and rounded on Q. “You’ve hit every one of them since the moment you opened your mouth. Now cut it out.”

“Aww, you’re so grumpy. It’s almost endearing.”

“Bring me back home, now!” 

She found herself back in her quarters, heart heavy and mixed emotions making her sick. 

“Well, this was fun,” Q said with an insufferable grin. “Look forward to seeing how this all goes. Nice meeting you.”

There was a flash of light and he was gone. 

Faith sunk onto her bed, furious with Q and angry at herself for letting his visions get under her skin. She couldn’t stop picturing Data as a human, unable to stop the brief moment of longing. 

Don’t let Q get to you, she scolded herself. This is what he wants. What he showed you doesn’t change anything. 

She gave herself another moment, before pushing the thoughts away. Looking up, she pictured Q and, without a word, raised her middle finger, hoping wherever he was he could see it. 

“Time to pack,” she declared out loud and began to gather her belongings so she could move in with Data. 

[citrinekay]

Hiiii I dunno if you're still doing prompts but i've been thinking about a drabble where Bill and Holden are at home and they're both a little tipsy and Holden talks Bill into slow dancing with him, I just need some cute domestic fluff tbh, thanksss

HI Ash! Sorry for the delay in answering this 😫 life has been so busy and stressful these past couple weeks, but I finally got a chance to sit down and write this little thing that’s been bouncing around in my head ever since you sent this message. Hopefully you are still yearning for the domestic fluff, because this is fluffy to the max! Enjoy 💕

When Holden wakes on Saturday morning, the mellow, morning sunlight creeping across the unoccupied side of his bed illuminates the vacancy in a way that makes his chest tighten. If he closes his eyes, he can imagine the dust motes sailing, hitting bare skin, the radiating warmth of body heat, hands winding around his waist to pull him closer. But he’s never liked feeling needy or dependent on anyone - not until recently. 

He tries to set aside the lonely patter of his thoughts, but when he goes into the kitchen to put some breakfast together, his gaze settles nervously on the telephone. 

Last weekend, it was Bill’s turn having Brian. The week before that, Holden was over at Bill’s house, and they were making out on the couch. It seems like a small eternity ago, almost unbearable. He wants to call and invite himself over, but Bill has never been the doting type. He doesn’t appreciate clingy behavior or other people invading his personal space. This thing between them is still too new for that kind of closeness. 

Holden dispels the thought of calling, and turns his attention to making breakfast. Afterward, he busies himself by checking the contents of the refrigerator and deciding he needs to stop at the grocery store. 

On the weekend, the store is fairly busy, and he takes his time shuffling down the crowded aisles and ticking items off his list once they hit the cart. He trolls the familiar shelves by rote, allowing his mind to wander and predict the rest of the day. Maybe he’ll go for a run later or settle in with a book. More than likely, he’ll end up pouring over the case files he brought home with him. Relaxing has never come easy to him, just like the vulnerability of missing someone. 

When Holden gets back to his apartment, juggling two paper sacks of groceries and his keys, the shrill ring of his telephone reaches past the front door. Muttering a curse, he sets down one sack in order to unlock the door, and quickly drags the groceries inside. The telephone continues ringing as he knocks the door shut, stumbles past the grocery sacks into the kitchen, and swipes for the receiver. 

“Hello?”

“Hey.” Bill’s voice reaches from the other end of the line, at ease and fond, shattering Holden’s dour mood in seconds. 

“Bill, hi.” Holden says, a smile pushing unbidden at his cheeks. 

“Did I catch you at a bad time?”

“No, I was just coming back from the store. It’s okay. What’s up?”

“Nothing, I was just thinking about you.”

Holden turns to lean his hips against the kitchen counter, and bites back a growing grin. “Really? That’s funny.”

“Why?”

“Because, I was thinking about you.” Holden says, clutching the phone tighter as nervous butterflies rouse in his belly. 

“Were you, now?”

“Mm-hm.”

“Well, it seems like we’re on the same page then.” Bill says, his tone modest yet holding a note of anticipation.

“About what?”

“You coming over tonight.”

The butterflies explode, not painfully but joyously. Holden purses his lips, but he can’t help the excited grin that stretches across his mouth. 

“That sounds great.” He says, attempting not to betray his over-eagerness. 

“Yeah?” Bill asks, the relief in his voice matching the warmth in Holden’s chest. “I wasn’t sure how you’d feel. I know last week in New Hampshire was hard on you. I figured you’d want to rest-”

“No.” Holden says, quickly. “Not at all. I want to come over.”

“Great. We don’t have to do anything crazy.” Bill says, “Order some take-out, watch a movie …”

“Yeah, that all sounds good. When do you want me to come over?”

“I’ve got some chores around the house to finish up. How does five o’clock sound?”

“Good. Perfect.”

“Okay. See you then.”

After they hang up, Holden stands in the middle of the kitchen with a bewildered smile lingering on his face. His fears about coming off as too needy sink below the surface, leaving behind the warm hum of anticipation in his belly. The realization that Bill wants this - them - just as much as he does rises up slowly right next to the bubbling excitement, but Holden doesn’t try to dwell on the particulars; he has to seize this moment while it lasts. 

~

Holden pulls his car into the driveway of Bill’s house at 4:45. He prefers to be early, but today’s punctuality exists more out of uncurbed enthusiasm rather than timely diligence. He hadn’t been able to stop himself from getting himself ready early and leaving his apartment ahead of schedule. He’s sure Bill won’t mind. 

Getting out of the car, he jogs up the front steps, and raps his knuckles on the front door. He doesn’t have to wait long before he hears Bill’s footfalls approach and the latch click open. 

Holden glances up from his shoes to see Bill holding the door open. He has a kitchen towel over his shoulder, and his cheeks are faintly flushed. Immediately, the mouth-watering scents of cooking dinner wafts from behind his shoulders. 

“Hi.” Bill says, his mouth fending off a smug smile. 

“Hi…” Holden says, slowly, a frown tugging at his brow. 

“Come on in.” 

Bill stands aside as Holden creeps across the threshold, pinning him with a curious gaze. 

“What smells so good?” Holden asks as Bill pulls the door shut behind him. 

Bill’s hand clasps his hip as he leans in to plant a warm kiss on Holden’s cheek. “Dinner.”

“Dinner?” Holden echoes, his brows rising. “You said we were going casual.”

“I know. I wanted to surprise you.”

“I’m practically in pajamas.” Holden protests, haplessly. “I would have dressed up if you told me you were making me dinner and-”

“Hey,” Bill interrupts, his eyes twinkling. “Hush, will you? I’m not worried about what you’re wearing.”

Holden purses his lips, and gently leans into Bill’s chest. Peeking up past his eyelashes and the flush climbing his cheeks, he murmurs, “Right. Sorry. I should be thanking you.”

“You can thank me later.” Bill whispers, planting a fleeting kiss on Holden’s mouth before he turns to go back into the kitchen. 

Holden trails behind him, his disbelief growing as he enters the kitchen to see the table set with the nice china dishware and a glass vase at the center that holds a large bouquet of purple and white flowers. 

“Wow.” Holden says, pausing in the doorway to gather himself. “Bill, this is …”

“A surprise?” Bill asks as he leans down to open the oven. 

“Yes. Very much so.”

Bill pulls the pot out of the oven, and sets it down on the top of the stove. When the lid comes off, the aromatic scent of seasoned pork roast makes Holden’s mouth water. 

“Then I succeeded.” Bill says, casting him a smile. 

Holden shuffles closer to the table, trying to curb his excitement as he bends over to smell the flowers. 

“Are these for me?”

“Yep.” Bill says, sounding casual as he carves into the roast. 

“Well, well. I didn’t know you were such a romantic.”

“I’m not. But I figured you would appreciate it.”

“Why’s that? I don’t consider myself a romantic either.”

Bill casts him a dubious glance over his shoulder. 

“What? I’m not.” Holden protests. 

Bill smirks, and turns his attention back to plating the food. 

Holden sighs, and rubs one of the flower petals between his thumb and forefinger. “Well, I have to admit, they are nice. I hope you didn’t spend too much on them.”

“Didn’t your mother teach you it’s rude to ask how much a gift costs?”

“Yes. She also taught me not to kiss boys so …. We’re in new territory, aren’t we?”

Setting aside his fork and knife, Bill turns to catch Holden by the wrist and reel him in. Both arms wind around his waist, pulling him into a firm embrace. A shiver runs through him, leaving his knees weak and his hands clutching at the front of Bill’s shirt. The thrill of warmth ends in his belly when Bill’s eyes swallow him, then his mouth comes down to turn Holden’s world inside out and upside down. Dizzy, giddy satisfaction crushes through his veins at the first sweet dash of Bill’s mouth against his own, increasing to a dazed hum when the strokes deepen and Bill’s tongue slips against his palate. 

Holden clings to Bill’s chest until the kiss ends with a slick disconnect of lips and panting breath. He opens his eyes slowly, shuddering. 

Bill gazes down at him, a faint smirk resting on the damp corner of his mouth. “I’ve been thinking about doing that all day.” He murmurs. 

Holden flushes hotly, and chokes on a reply. 

Bill chuckles. “I guess your mom didn’t tell you how great kissing boys would be, huh?”

“Not in the slightest.” Holden whispers, offering a strangled laugh. 

“Come on.” Bill says, nudging him toward the table. “Sit down. Dinner’s ready.”

Holden sinks to his chair, grateful for the support now that his legs have been turned to jelly. Part of him had meant to come here tonight feeling in control of emotions and sexually powerful. He’d meant to accept Bill’s invitation, but not act too eager. Ten minutes into the evening and he’s ready to faint like a virgin, longing for another kiss, longing for more - Bill’s hands all over his body, making him forget everything his mother ever taught him. 

After Bill sets the dinner plates in front of them and pours them each a glass of wine, he sits down across from Holden with a pleased sigh. 

“Go ahead.” He urges as Holden toys with his fork. 

“This looks really good.” Holden says, leaning forward to apply his fork and knife to the pork. 

Bill watches eagerly as he takes a bite and the tender, juicy flavor fills his mouth. 

“Mm, wow. It tastes really good, too.” Holden says around the bite. 

“Good.” Bill says, taking up his own fork. “That’s all I wanted to hear.”

They both fall quiet for a few moments as they eat, the quiet clink of silverware on china filtering above the rush in Holden’s ears. He peeks past the bouquet of flowers, feeling his chest swelling and opening the same as the soft petals. It’s difficult to hold onto his stubborn sense of self-sustainability when Bill is treating him this way, making him dinner, giving him flowers, kissing him intimately in a way he knows he’ll never be kissed by anyone else again; but a part of him still clings to his jaded cynicism, the scar tissue on his heart that warns him nothing good lasts forever. 

“Bill …” Holden whispers. 

“Yeah?” Bill mutters, glancing up from his plate with a warm, expectant gaze. 

“Thank you. This is amazing. It feels too good to be true, actually.”

Bill’s mouth tilts with a soft smile. “I know. But it is.”

“In ten years …” Holden says, drawing in a shaky breath. “Are you going to cook me dinner like this?”

Bill’s eyes soften, and his chest rises with a staggered breath. Setting his fork and knife down, he rubs a hand over his mouth. 

“You, um … You think we’re going to be together like this in ten years?” 

“Well, I … I think so.” Holden says, hurriedly. “I mean, I hope so.”

“Yeah.” Bill says, his voice quietly choked. “Me, too.”

Holden lowers his head, pressing his eyes shut against the sudden sting of tears. Bill’s hand creeps across the table to clutch over his knuckles, grounding him into this moment that feels too perfectly constructed for his reality. 

“You okay?” Bill asks, gently. 

Holden nods, swiping briskly at his eyes. “Yes, fine. Good, actually.”

“Okay, good. That’s a relief. I didn’t think I was that rusty in the kitchen.”

Holden chokes on a laugh, and shakes his head. “No, it’s not the food. The food is amazing. You’re amazing, I just-”

He stops as their eyes meet across the table, and he realizes he’s shown too much - more than he ever has with anyone else. In just a few minutes, his walls have crumbled to the ground. 

He clears his throat of the forming knot, and manages a calm expression. 

“It’s just that good things normally don’t last long for me.” He says, “Everything has always felt temporary.”

Bill’s knits with concern and determination. He gives Holden’s hand another squeeze. 

“Well,” He says, “It isn’t this time.”

~

After the dishes are cleared away and the bottle of wine is diminished to a few lingering sips, Bill and Holden relax on the couch with the television playing at low volume and a Sinatra record spinning on the turntable. 

Holden isn’t paying much attention to the sports cast debating the upcoming football draft as he cuddles underneath Bill’s arm, his cheek pressed to Bill’s chest. Bill’s fingertips wander up and down the back of his arm, rousing warm tingles down his spine while the other hand guides a cigarette to and from his lips. 

Tilting his head back, Holden studies Bill’s face in the low light, the familiar edges of his jawline, his bladed cheekbones, his eyes as moody as incoming rain. He knows these planes and slopes well, has memorized each facet through sleepless, lovelorn midnights. He thought he knew everything there was to know about Bill, but tonight surprised him - and his morning concerns that Bill might find him too needy or even annoying suddenly seem ridiculous. 

The record hums static for a moment before the next song starts, the sweet, languid opening notes of “The Way You Look Tonight.”

Hesitation cast aside, Holden sits bolt upright from Bill’s chest, and clutches his arm. 

“I love this song.”

Bill’s attention breaks from the television to pin Holden with a bemused smile. “Yeah. It’s a good one.”

“It’s one of my mom’s favorite songs.” Holden says, climbing to his feet. “We used to slow dance to it in the kitchen.”

“There you go with your mom again.”

“She has good music taste. Obviously.” Holden says, tugging on Bill’s hand. “Come on.”

“Come where?” 

“Come on. Dance with me.” Holden says, offering his most imploringly coy gaze. 

“Oh, no.” Bill says, shaking his head. “I think I’ve fulfilled enough romantic duties for tonight.”

“Duties? You seemed pretty pleased with yourself.”

“Yeah, well. You said you weren’t a romantic either.” 

“Maybe I lied a little.” Holden says, giving Bill’s hand another firm tug. “Please?”

Bill gives a labored sigh, but quickly sets aside his cigarette and climbs to his feet. 

“Here.” Holden says, guiding Bill’s left hand to his hip and catching the right hand in his own grasp. “I’ll lead.”

“Holden, I know how to dance.” Bill says, flipping their hands over so that his is on top.

“Do you?” 

“Yeah, it’s just been awhile.” 

Holden purses his mouth shut as Bill’s palm flattens against his lower back, drawing him so close that their mouths nearly collide. A chuckle rises up in his belly, the last of his misgivings melting away beneath the duress of Bill’s embrace and half a bottle of a wine simmering in his veins. It feels too good to resist now that he’s wrapped up in Bill’s arms, their bodies swaying against one another while Sinatra croons a saccharine, lovesick melody. 

They’re quiet through the first verse as they rock back and forth, turning in a slow circle in the middle of the living room carpet. Holden wraps his arm tighter around Bill’s shoulders, and lowers his head to the warm cradle of Bill’s neck. 

“I have a confession.” He whispers as the song swells into the chorus. 

“Hmm?”  

“I thought about calling you this morning before you called me.” Holden whispers, lifting his head from Bill’s neck to cast him a sheepish smile. “But I didn’t want to seem clingy.”

“Clingy?” Bill echoes. “Why would you seem clingy?”

“Well, we see each other every day at work, and we were just together all weekend the other week. I just thought-”

“That I didn’t miss you?” 

Holden pauses, his throat knotting again. “Well, um … yes.”

“I missed you a lot when you were in New Hampshire.” Bill says, leaning in to kiss Holden’s lower lip softly. “I do every time we have to go out of town for work.”

Holden leans into the kiss, but Bill’s mouth only strokes softly for a few moments before he pulls back, his forehead nudging against Holden’s. 

“Can I be completely honest with you right now?”

“Yes, of course.” 

“Good.” Bill says, his hand squeezing against Holden’s lower back. “Because I don’t want to waste anymore time. I’ve wasted years, you know. Years I can’t get back.”

Holden frowns, feeling his chest begin to quiver. “Years?”

“Yes. Years without this - without you.” Bill says, glancing away with a coarse scoff as the words choke in his throat. “Fuck. Sorry.”

“It’s okay.” Holden murmurs, leaning closer. 

They’ve stopped dancing, but their hands are still clasped in mid-air. Holden doesn’t feel like letting go of Bill’s hand. 

“I don’t know.” Bill says, “I guess I thought this would be easier if I persuaded you with dinner and flowers and wine.”

“Persuaded me?” Holden echoes. 

“Yeah.” Bill says, shifting a misty gaze back to Holden. He draws in a slow breath. “But you’re going to make me say out loud, aren’t you?”

Holden swallows hard. There’s a buzzing in his ears that doesn’t quite feel like panic. His belly is surging, flipping. They’re rushing towards a precipice that they can’t turn back from. He’s carving out pieces of himself and handing them over.  Willingly. They both are. 

“Look,” Bill says, lowering his head again, “I know it’s hard for both of us to say how we feel, but I can’t keep pretending that this is some kind of phase or fling or- … It means more than that to me, and you were talking about ten years from now so I know you do too.”

Holden adjusts his grasp on Bill’s hand. Both of them are sweaty with nerves, but he doesn’t want to let go. 

Bill lifts his head. His eyes are clear, resolute. There’s a pause, not the quiet before a destructive storm but the anticipation before a deliverance of rain. 

“I love you.” Bill says, quietly. 

Holden draws in a hitched breath, and tears instantly sting his eyes. Overwhelmed, he buries his face in Bill’s neck, and wraps both arms around his shoulders. Sinatra’s serenade swells below the surge of his heartbeat, the broken, lonely pieces of himself coming back together again. 

Bill holds him close until he can breathe again, until he can look up and look into Bill’s eyes without crumbling entirely. 

“I love you, too.” Holden chokes out, a tear streaking down his cheek in the same moment that he begins to laugh for joy. 

“You do?” Bill asks, a hopeful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. 

“Yes.” Holden nods, pressing a series of affirming kisses to Bill’s mouth, mumbling the response again and again into the narrow space between their mouths. 

Bill’s hand strokes away the last of his tears before it takes up Holden’s hand into the dancing position again. As they begin to sway once more, Holden nestles his cheek against Bill’s shoulder. His mind goes quiet, not for the first time, but for the first time in a very long time, in so long that he’d almost forgotten what this kind of contentment feels like. Relief rushes through him, a nebulous epiphany of bliss. In this moment, he can see every second of the future, the two of them together just like this.  Nothing lasts forever, but some things are infinite.

[itsomgitsgreenblogging]

Labor of Love Chapter 6 (END): A Critical Role Fanfic

And so we come to the end! This chapter is a bit shorter, most due to being a wrap up chapter and a proper ending. And we're getting Critical Role tomorrow!!!!! It's an exciting time for everyone really. I would just like to say, thank you to every single person who reviewed and supported this fic. Just know that I love you all, and hope that your next bite of dessert is as sweet as how you've all been to me and I'm happy to have been a source of something light and cute in a strange time. <3

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Preview:

It was the morning of the ceremony, and Essek was stressed. Of course there wasn’t much in the world that was more stressful then having an event with Leylas Kryn herself. She demanded as close to perfection that every person could understandably achieve and then some, that was just her style. Essek respected that of course, she was still the most powerful woman in Xhorhas for that very reason. But it didn’t make any of this very enjoyable. In fact, Essek was counting down the minutes until it would be socially acceptable to throw back at least two shots of something hard that burned all the way to his belly. 

And also when he might steal a kiss from a certain Zemnian wizard, but that was neither here nor there. 

“Who do I need to kill?” Nedna demanded hotly as she grabbed at her phone and tapped at her screen impatiently as if that would make whatever message she was hoping to come through come faster. “The flowers were supposed to be delivered a half-an-hour ago for the wedding party.” 

“Oh please,” Essek scoffed as he tapped on the screen of his tome-pad and showed her the delivery app from his account. On the screen it showed the location of the delivery just one street over from the venue itself, before he minimized it. “As if you have the stomach for murder. Leave that up to the professionals.” 

Nedna scoffed but seemed content to pout and not whine. Essek was thankful, because he hated when people whined at him. It was part of the reason why he was so good at solving problems. Essek sighed as his shoe tapped a rhythm, the only one that he could think of at the moment was Sweet Caroline, which made Essek think of Caleb and the Mighty Nein and he knew he couldn’t have been thinking about them but- 

“What are you nervous about?” Nedna asked breaking his concentration and causing him to lose the beat.

“What do you mean?” Essek asked, incredulously. 

“You’re fidgeting,” Nedna pointed out. “You don’t fidget. You don’t get nervous.” 

 “Contrary to popular belief, I do have emotions,” Essek said with a roll of his eyes as he checked his phone for what must have been the thousandth time that day, discreetly he hoped. “In fact, I’m waiting to hear from my date.” 

“Your date?” Nedna asked, eyebrows raised and jaw slack with surprise. 

“Am I not allowed to have one?” Essek inquired haughtily, turning up his nose at her like the blue-blood he was. 

“You didn’t add anyone to the list,” Nedna said, now sitting up at attention. Essek could see her calculating it out in her head and coming up with the wrong answers, so he figured it would be prudent to nip this in the bud before she could go blather on to the Kryns...or Luxon forbid his mother.  

“I don’t need to add someone to the list if they are already on the list, correct?” Essek scoffed impatiently. “Or did I need to put an asterisk and highlight it in red to signify the importance to my love life?” 

“Do you always have to be patronizing?” 

“When people ask me stupid questions? Yes, I do.” 

“Luxon help whoever is in a relationship with you,” Nedna said with a snort. 

“Well, it certainly helps that I actually enjoy their company and they enjoy mine. That’s the way functional relationships work, you ought to try it sometime,” Essek said as finally he got a message from Jester. It read, after a disgusting amount of emojis, that they had finished the cake and were in the process of getting it ready for transport. It would be at the reception on time. Essek could help the sigh of relief that escaped from the gridlock of his teeth. 

“Ha ha, funny,” Nedna said irritated, bringing him unceremoniously back to reality. Essek was about to open his mouth and tell Nedna where she could put her attitude and her cheap looking pumps that she probably wasted a fortune on, when the door opened. Waccoh looked in and gave them both a pinched look of annoyance. 

“It’s time,” a junior assistant said, “Leylas said she needs you two.”  

Essek immediately stood up and dawned his coat once again. In the mirror he quickly checked his tie and was out the door with Nedna on his heels. They got to the room where Leylas was sitting with her bridal party. She was dressed in her wedding finery. The bodice of the extravagant gown was designed to catch the light and glitter as if plated by the stars themselves before draping into beautiful gauzy layers that shimmered as she stood. She wore a beautiful crown encrusted with crystals and designed in geometric shapes that were reminiscent of shards of glass or frosted ice, as her designer fixed the veil. 

“Quana asked for it,” Leylas said, looking a bit thoughtful as her fingers slid along the material of the veil. “I told her that I was much too old for it...but I suppose she was feeling nostalgic.” 

“You look beautiful,” Essek said simply, finding enough breath in his lungs to give her a coherent answer. Leylas was beautiful the way nature was beautiful, totally overwhelming in its majesty and power. Even someone like him could only hope to appreciate it. 

“Thank you,” Leylas said. “Tell me, is everything on time?” 

“The guests are being directed to their proper seats in the cathedral as we speak,” Nedna said, opening up her tome-pad and showing Leylas the livestream of the event. “I was told Quana’s party arrived and are now waiting in the upper floors for the signals. I finally got confirmation that the flowers have arrived and Quana’s party has received them. They will be given to you all before your appearance.” 

“Perfect, and the reception preparations?” 

“All a go, the cake will be delivered, the band is already there and is doing warm ups, and the corrections to the decorations you wished for have been taken care of,” Essek reported. 

“Good, then there is no need to delay,” she said looking to the bridal party gathered in the room. Her makeup artist and designer joined Essek and Nedna as her bridal party exited the room following Leylas like she was the sun and the rest of them were the planets in her orbit. 

“I can’t believe you always work with her,” her designer said, looking slightly faint. Essek realized he was looking at him and Nedna as he made that statement. He was a well dressed half-orc, an up and coming designer who had won Leylas’ attention with his design proposal. Essek could understand why this was intimidating for him, after all, his life was probably going to change after today. He was going to become a household name in Xhorhas. “She’s so intimidating.”

“She has high standards,” Essek said with a shrug. “There is no problem unless you meet them. In that way, she is a very fair boss.” 

“Essek’s the only person in the history of the entire world who has never let down the Kryns,” the makeup artist said with a shrug. “And I can say that because I’ve been doing Leylas’ makeup for the past five years and I know that for a fact.” 

“It’s because I also have extremely high standards for myself,” Essek said, motioning them to follow. “I’m very rarely satisfied with things as they are. That’s what it takes to work for the Kryns.” 

“And also the lack of a social life,” Nedna said. 

“I have more of a social life then you thought I did even an hour ago. That’s another thing, never be too boring. Leylas likes people that surprise her...in the good subtle way. She doesn’t like real surprises, she’s very particular about that,” Essek said as they waited for the Kryn party to get into their limousine. Their own car was pulling up after, and Essek opened the door and allowed the others to get in first. “Has anyone heard from Waccoh about the broadcast by the way? Is that working according to plan? It won’t glitch out or anything right?”

“As far as we can tell,” Nedna said. 

“Good, then there’s nothing to do but stay the course,” Essek said, catching a glimpse of his cellphone.

Good luck with everything today, I’m thinking about you. 

Essek smiled, even just imagining Caleb’s voice could do that to him. That was a simply marvelous thing. 

Same to you. Essek responded before slipping his phone in his pocket and preparing for the battle ahead. 

________________

The ceremony hall was dark, except for the lights that showed around the altar and illuminated the clerics of the Luxon and the royal couple. Essek watched, with breath caught in his lungs at the wonder of it all. As Quana pressed a kiss to Leylas’ lips with the promise of forever dancing over her tongue, Essek wondered what that might be like…wondered at what the taste of their love was like. Even after all this time, was it still the same? 

Based on the way Leylas’ tears shimmered, Essek thought it just might be the case.  

________________

The reception was being held at the Lucid Bastion itself, the castle where the nobility once lived. It was a grand affair, and as such everything was washed with the white and silver of the wedding colors. Guests were handed their goodie bags upon arrival and milled about at the cocktail bars as wait staff in crisp white shirts handed them drinks named ridiculous things like White Blossom, or Mint Twilights. Essek confirmed with the staff that everything was going smoothly, and spoke to a few guests to assure their time was going well before he went to mind other equally important business. 

Essek moved into the reception area, and that was when he saw the cake in full glory. It was of course different then Essek had seen since it before. It was six hexagonal tiers tall, with each tier having a separate intricate design. Flowers fell in cascading tiers of frothy, silk organza ruffled and powdery with delicate blooms. Smattering of embellishments and the catching of edible crystal shards in hidden spots, delicate marzipan birds, and other gems that left something for the eye to catch at every sweep of it’s magnificent form. This all followed the brush of silver that perfectly drew the gaze to each new pleasure accordingly. At the top was the sculpture of both Leylas and Quana looking much and love and very weirdly adorable in their tiny form courtesy of Jester Lavorre.  

“Essek,” Caleb called with a small wave, and Essek tore his eyes away to see him. They were all dressed in tan slacks and white chef’s shirts with the Xhorhaus emblem on the side. It was a good choice for the formal affair, and the light colors really brought out the color of Caleb’s blue eyes. 

“Oh Caleb, it’s beautiful,” Essek told him somewhat breathlessly as Caleb crossed the room. 

“Just wait until they dim the lights for the first dance,” Caleb said proudly. “That’s when the really fun bits start.” 

“Are you talking about funny bits with Essek,” Jester asked as she settled down a tray of desserts for the dessert spread. There were slices of pies with jewel-colored fruit fillings, cookies and macarons in pastels, jellies and puddings and parfaits in glasses, their famous cupcakes with their swirls and sprinkles and glammed up with shimmer-dust. Yasha was placing decorative flowers and vases that had been handed off to her artfully between the display of treats in the most delicate and thoughtful fashion. By each dessert platter there was a little holder of cards, embellished with Xhorhaus Bakery very professionally upon the laminate that Veth was triple checking and double checking before seeming satisfied. 

Essek picked up one of the cards, and smiled. 

“We got those done last week,” Beauregard said as she wheeled out another tray with more desserts. 

“Good for you all,” Essek told them, very pleased as he slid one of the cards into his wallet. Who knew when he was going to need to give it out. “I am so very happy for you, truly.” 

“Do you think the boss will like it?” Fjord asked nervously as Caduceus placed a hand on his shoulder. Essek could understand the nerves, after all the camera crews and the guests would be coming in soon enough. If Essek had learned anything about life from working where he did, it was that any event with Leylas Kryn was bound to be overwhelming in more ways than one. 

“I can say from knowing Leylas Kryn as well as I do, that she’ll be extremely pleased,” Essek promised them all. “This is exactly what she asked for and far more, you have all completely outdone yourselves.”

“Thank you so much, for the opportunity,” Caleb said, reaching to clasp Essek’s hand. 

“No thanks required, you have already done more than enough,” Essek promised them all. Essek was about to say more when Nedna came over, holding her tome-pad. 

“The guests are set to arrive in ten minutes, after which there will be the dinner. At the end of the dinner you will be signalled to begin serving the desserts,” Nedna said without lifting her gaze to even look at them. Essek couldn’t help but bristle. He really couldn’t believe her rudeness...but at the same time he also couldn’t blame her. He would like to think he would always look into the eyes of those who were working with him, that was part of the reason he was successful. Essek did wonder if there had ever been a moment where he had been so nonchalant and found himself glad to be changed even in such a small insignificant way. “As requested the lights will be dimmed as you do so to help emphasize the enchantments on the cake and-oh! Here’s the photographer.” 

Nedna motioned over the photographer who had an expensive looking camera hanging by his neck. 

“I’d like to get a few shots of the cake as well as all of you before everyone comes in,” the photographer said, holding up his camera. 

“Of course,” Caleb said. “Would you like us to be out of the picture at first?” 

The photographer took a few shots of the cake from different angles. Jester did her best to both art direct and distract to Essek’s enjoyment and Nedna’s chagrin. After that, the photographer showed Nedna the photos as well as the Mighty Nein and Essek. Though Essek was sure that a photo couldn’t really capture the beauty of the cake, it was a well composed shot. With Essek’s final nod, the photographer gave a sigh of relief. They all knew this all would, of course, be shown to Leylas before it made it anywhere near the press release. But Essek had always had a good eye for what his employer would like. 

“It looks good,” the photographer said before looking back at the Mighty Nein. “If you guys would like, you should get into the next picture. We can figure out a caption and include it in the media press release as well.” 

“You have to make sure to get my good side,” Veth said, striking a pose, causing Beauregard to give her a playful push. 

“I’m fairly certain that’s his job,” Fjord pointed out with a fond exasperated shake of his head. “Where would you like us?” 

The photographer arranged them so that Yasha, Beauregard, Jester, and Caleb were on one side while Nott, Fjord, and Caduceus were on the other. They were about to take the picture when Jester began waving at Essek. As he was in the midst of this, Essek could see a few of the early arrivals filtering into the room. 

“Come on, Essek! Join us!” Jester said, moving over to the other side and wildly gesticulating at the place where she had been next to Caleb. 

“I’m not sure that’s appropriate,” Essek began to say as Jester placed her hands on her hips and gave him a chiding look. 

“Oh come on, Essek! You helped us so much with the cake!” Jester said. 

“You are one of the team,” Beauregard said with a smile and a shrug. 

“You are basically part of the Mighty Nein just through association,” Veth said. 

“You helped them with the cake?” Nedna asked with a scoff and with a smirk. “You? What? Was it running late?” 

“Yes, I helped my boyfriend with the cake his business made,” Essek snapped at Nedna as he marched himself over to where the Mighty Nein was standing in front of the cake and took his place besides Caleb. “Bite me, Nedna.” 

Nedna couldn’t have looked more shocked then if Essek had slapped her right in her face. Essek took serious enjoyment from watching her gap like a fish as he stood proudly next to Caleb, who placed his arm around his shoulders and smiled brilliantly at him. The photographer took a few pictures, before calling Essek forward. Essek looked at the picture appraisingly. Everyone in the Mighty Nein was looking proud, though, they would have to pick a picture where Caleb wasn’t looking at him. Though it was sweet, he didn’t think that Leylas would particularly want that picture in her press release. 

“Very good,” Essek said. “You’ll want to send either the fourth or the fifth picture to Leylas. Could I give you my details to send the first picture to me? I would love to have it. I’ll be happy to pay for the picture as well.” 

“Of course, I would be happy-” 

“Essek.” 

Essek took a deep breath, channeling the void and smiling his greatest work-mode-activated smile as he turned to face his mother and his very apologetic looking brother who looked like this train wreck was the absolute last thing that he wanted to be dealing with at this exact moment. His mother, dressed in a chic black dress with stilettos that probably could kill a man, tapped out an impatient rhythm as Essek stood before her...as if he were wasting her time merely by existing. Nedna was looking excited to witness the epic scolding that Essek was probably in store for. 

“Hello, Mother,” Essek said with his sweetest and most obliging smile. “How are you enjoying the Vow Renewal so far?”

“I see there is someone you haven’t introduced me to yet? Hm?” Deirta said, her voice eerily calm...the way stepping on a lake two degrees from splintering and sending you down to the depths where you would probably become an Essek-popsicle. 

“Ah! Deirta, there you are!” A voice suddenly cut the tension like a knife. It was Quana, dressed in her gorgeous white suit that had both Beauregard and Yasha choking at the sight. Even as someone who didn’t find women attractive beyond just aesthetics, Quana really packed a punch that had even Essek momentarily questioning himself (though the desire to actually see Quana naked was nonexistent). Deirta, unable to refuse the hug from Quana was helpless but to accept it and the friendly joyful kiss on the cheek. “I haven’t seen you yet all day, how did you like the Vow Renewal Ceremony?”

“Of course it was beautiful, just to be expected but-”

“And Essek, absolutely wonderful job with everything. Really Deirta, you ought to be so proud of your son. He is just a shining example of what the Xhorhassian Institute is capable of,” Quana said with a knowing glint to her eyes. “And Caleb, it's so wonderful to see you again. The cake looks absolutely stunning, I know I speak for both me and my wife when I say I can’t wait for the grand finale. Really Essek, your boyfriend is so talented! You’ll absolutely be the talk of Rosohna with this. In fact, I’ve already heard the ambassador to Marquet’s wife asking about a cake!”

“Ah, ja, thank you so much Mrs. Kryn. I can’t explain how much that means to us,” Caleb said, putting an arm around Essek’s waist. Essek tried to act natural and not like he was two breaths away from passing out from the prolonged exposure to Caleb’s body. “And yes, I did speak to the ambassador’s wife. I am glad she has expressed such interest, and I would be happy to speak to her.” 

“You know, Deirta, she’s the one planning on helping out with the trade deal. She’ll be beyond herself with joy to know that he’s Essek’s boyfriend, especially if that means she gets ahead in the lines of people already lined up.”  

“Oh, really?” Deirta asked, sounding absolutely tickled pink by this new and very profitable connection that she had suddenly made. “Do you think you would be able to introduce me?” 

“Oh it would be my pleasure,” Quana said, holding out her arm to Deirta who took it. “Just don’t tell my wife, she may get jealous.” 

“Oh you two never change,” Deirta said with a joking swat before looking over at Essek and Caleb. “It was lovely to meet you Caleb. We’ll have to do family brunch some time, when things settle down a bit.” 

“Of course,” Caleb said with a very understanding nod, and like that Deirta flounced off to terrorize someone else, Nedna skulked off having not been given the show she clearly had scripted in her own head. This left Verin behind with them. He had watched all of this unfold before him quietly, but just as Essek began to worry about his reaction he gave Essek a weak smile as he approached them. 

“Sorry,” Verin said, sounding like he was apologizing for more than just this interaction. “Though...it will be nice for mother to worry herself about another relationship...besides mine of course.” 

“Oh please she won’t be worried about my relationship, we both know which one of us has the better judgement,” Essek said, smiling up at Caleb and meeting his loving gaze. “Don’t be jealous.” 

“You are a brave man, Mr. Widogast,” Verin said with a roll of his side. “If I had to take Essek’s shit on a regular basis, I would have flung myself out of the nearest window years ago.” 

“I am a very lucky man,” Caleb said, pressing a kiss to Essek’s temple that had Essek smiling like a dopey love sick fool. Essek shook out of it and gave his chest an appreciative pat. “It is nice to meet you though.”

“Likewise. We’ll have to talk some other time, when things aren’t so busy.” 

“Thank you, Verin,” Essek told him honestly, reaching and grabbing his arm and looking him in the eye. Verin was momentarily startled, clearly, since Essek couldn’t recall a moment when he had initiated contact like this with his brother. “Really.” 

“Hey now, don’t get sappy on me,” Verin told him, reaching out, giving Essek a short but heartfelt hug, before pulling away and smiling at him. “We’re Theylss kids, it’s what we do. Besides, we still need to survive the evening.” 

With a final parting wave, he made his way to the table where he was assigned and joined his girlfriend. Essek watched him go, and made sure to make a mental note to buy him something nice for his birthday for a change. He didn’t think that a card and a check was going to cut it this year, all things considered. 

“You guys are official!” Veth screeched, rushing them and sounding breathless. “When? How? What?”

“Congratulations,” Caduceus said, smiling a wide and warm smile. 

“Oh it was super obvious that they were,” Jester said waving at Veth. “It’s not like we didn’t see them smooching the other day.” 

“Smooching is one thing, being together is another!” Veth argued. Essek attempted to grapple with that new information. It had to have been when Essek had dropped Caleb off after that stressful night of desperation baking. Essek felt his ears warm through with the realization that they had had an audience. 

“Well congrats on finally seeing what’s been written all over your faces for like months now,” Beauregard said, giving Caleb an appreciative slap on the back. Caleb gave her a smile that they shared as he reached out and gave her hair a teasing ruffle. 

“It is a wonderful thing,” Yasha said, quietly...softly, and with a sweet small personal smile. 

“I’m happy for you two,” Fjord promised. “It is a wonderful thing, Yasha is right.” 

“Thank you all,” Caleb said, with a glisten to his eyes which couldn’t have just been the light. “But before we really celebrate, we’ve got to make sure this goes off without a hitch.” 

“Caleb is right in that respect,” Fjord said. “Everyone, man your battle stations. We’ve got work to do.” 

“Aye, aye captain!” The rest of the Mighty Nein said with a mock salute. 

“I wish you all the best of luck,” Essek said before pressing up on his toes and giving Caleb the shortest and softest kiss he had ever given in his whole life. “You’ll be brilliant.”

“I wish I had your confidence,” Caleb said, eyes butter-soft blue. 

“I don’t have to be confident. I just know,” Essek said. “I’ll see you all after the fact.” 

With that and a parting wave, Essek made it over to his assigned seat. It was off to the side of the Kryn’s, just in case they were going to need anything. Photographers and videographers were stationed then,  and Quana had disappeared to the back. It was then when the guests had finally filtered into their seats when the announcer announced Leylas and Quana, who appeared to a raucous applause from everyone. Leylas had changed her dress to something more form fitting, but made almost completely out of shimmering jewels that fractured light as she moved with Quana to the head of the table. 

Dinner itself was of a bespoke design, small little dishes of designer appeal that were meant to be consumed in a bite or two before the next round appeared. Essek tasted no flavor, but ate only to bide his time and to look busy. Essek tried not to keep catching Caleb’s gaze from across the room, but it seemed like Caleb himself was an opposite charge pulling Essek’s eyes forward. Eventually though, glasses were refilled with an expensive wine and the lights were dimmed. 

“We hope that our next dish surprises and delights from the Xhorhaus Bakery in Rosohna,” the announcer said. 

Caleb moved his hand in a somatic gesture with the cake knife. With a final flick of his fingers, it was almost like sparks caught dry brush. A glimmer filled the air, like the soft light of dappled trees in autumn, or the filling pool of a hearth, or a cascade of light coming in from a cave mouth. Sugar flowers opened up like they were craning for the sun, light caught in the crystals and scattered them out, marzipan birds nestled between roots flew before settling on other lays, and most impressively those same firefly sparks that moved about the room settled on the candles at every table and lit them with a warm glow. 

When the glow settled into a pleasant mirage, heat casting illusions from a dancing candle flame, there was a mighty clap of applause. Essek could help his smile as all of the Mighty Nein took a short bow before the lights were turned up just a smidge and they began to hand out slices of cakes and other desserts along with the other servers. 

“I hope you enjoy,” Caleb said, settling down a slice for both Quana and Leylas. Leylas said something to Caleb that made him smile, but it was soft enough that Essek couldn’t parse it out. Then he came over to Essek’s table with the rest of the planning team, settling down a piece for every and then pausing in front of Essek. “Let me know how you like it.” 

Essek didn’t wait before taking a bite. 

The cake itself was tender and its crumbs disappeared in the mouth with the heady taste of brown sugar and almond and vanilla, then cut through with a deep tart black currant syrup that was soaked into the bottom cake while immediately lightened by layer of soft plum jam that fluttered against the mouth like moth wings. And then of course there was the vanilla frosting that was so light and smooth and heavenly that Essek wondered if that was what eating a cloud would be like. As he ate, he was warmed through, bundled up by a fire and held against arms that carried with them the scent of clean wood fires and summer days. And there was the hint of lemon, the hint of sunlight, a hint of Caleb, a hint of the love that gave to Essek until he was bursting at the seams. 

“I love it,” Essek told him, with a smile. 

________________________

Later, when the entire room was dancing and laughing, Essek found himself sitting beside Caleb. His hand was in Caleb’s, while Caleb ran his fingers along the divots of Essek’s knuckles like he was attempting to memorize him by touch alone. Essek did nothing to discourage him, and simply leaned just a bit closer. 

“I like my job,” Essek said as he watched Quana dip Leylas and plant a kiss to her. Leylas squawked indignantly, but based the pleased purple flush to her skin, she didn’t seem to mind. “But I’m beginning to think, perhaps, my days off are a little too idle. I always need to be busy.” 

“Really?” Caleb asked curiously, as Veth and Beauregard were flipping a coin. When it landed Beauregard swore as Veth swiped her drink and took it herself. Yasha and Jester watched this and laughed. Fjord clapped Caduceus on the back and both of them laughed at a joke that had obviously been told at someone’s expense. 

“Is there still an opening available for a barista or has the position been filled?” Essek asked Caleb curiously.  

“I may have to move a few interviews around, but as long as your recommendations are good I don’t see why we can’t make it work,” Caleb chuckled, slinging his arm around Essek, and Essek pulled in close against him.  “I may take up your offer, Mr. Theylss, if you are so inclined.” 

“You better be careful,” Essek joked. “Remember what I said, you give me an in and you’ll be only a partner soon.” 

“Only a partner?” Caleb asked in return. “I don’t think there’s anything I would like more. A baking’s a labor of love, and I can hardly only imagine what will happen when we stuff more love in that place.” 

“We might take over the world,” Essek pointed out with a laugh. 

“With our friends? Absolutely. Let’s! But you will have to tell me what flavors you think everything should be.”

“Lemon,” Essek laughed as Caleb grinned at him in return. And so the dancing went on and the evening turned to night, but Essek was held safely in the arms of a man that he loved. Essek couldn’t believe that there would ever be anything sweeter than that.