#I’ve been busy okay I’m STILL busy *weeps*

[revivivivify]

I’ve been so insanely busy that I’ve barely even gotten to start three hopes and this is my most important take so far. Listen I don’t want a PEEP out of y’all in the notes about whether or not Arval ends up being being a villain later in the game. If they want to betray us they’ll just have to do that I don’t care I enjoy them immensely

[robiniswriting]

I’m still amazed that the BBC let Chris “wrote the Cyberwoman episode of Torchwood” Chibnall anywhere near Jodie’s run, never mind putting him in charge of it

gonna be brutally honest here anon I have never seen torchwood so I cannot comment on that specifically, BUT!

chris chibnall isn’t as awful of a writer as people think. in my opinion, he was hindered by his love of classic who. he was writing for a completely different show in a completely different time, and a lot of his plot and lore decisions make more sense when you consider the classic show. not to mention his politics, many of which were stuck in the 1960s-1980s.

as a result, fans of new who didn’t like it — certain key elements of it didn’t really gel with the current show and upset their understanding of the doctor as a character.

chibnall also made the mistake of listening to fans during his first season: everyone was saying they wanted new monsters and a break from daleks and cybermen, so he had a season of totally brand-new monsters. people hated it, said the show was unrecognizable. when he wrote a few new episodes with daleks and cybermen and weeping angels, people wrote it off because they’d already made up their mind about it.

I’ll always be grateful to chibnall for pushing forward and having the first female doctor. the pushback he received for that at the time gets largely forgotten. it would have been easy to give in to the massive pressure and recast — nothing of the seasons had been filmed when jodie was initially announced — but he refused to budge and backed jodie all the way. for that, I’ll always respect him. he’s put up with a lot of shit from the fans.

that having been said, disliking chibnall’s era is so valid. even though I really enjoy thirteen’s run (she is my wife I love her dearly) I can like that era of the show and also have enough critical thinking skills to see the problems with it. I’m pretty sure i’ve said it before but the politics of the chibnall era are atrocious (see: the woman who fell to earth, rosa, arachnids in the uk, kerblam!, spyfall pt. 2, the vanquishers — feel free to ask me to elaborate on any of these) and sometimes he falls into the trap many writers do when writing women, which is to water them down a bit. thirteen is Not as weak as many people make her out to be, but there are a few moments that irk me (see: needing jack harkness to break her out of prison. I’d have been okay with it if maybe she’d managed to stall the judoon long enough to send him a distress signal or something? maybe use the sonic to get his attention? just give her a bit of agency).

anyway, long story short, chibnall’s era has issues. but nowhere near the number that people attribute to it. as for why the BBC handed the show over to him, he was extremely successful as showrunner on broadchurch, had written well-liked episodes of doctor who and been head writer at torchwood in the past, was a massive fan of the show, and vocally wanted to being some changes and mystery to the show, something fans had been clamoring for for ages. my guess is he applied for the job, interviewed like anybody else, and they decided he was the best possible candidate.

no writer is going to have no misses, especially not on a show with such demanding deadlines as doctor who, and every new showrunner is a risk the BBC have to take. at the time, it looked like he was the man for the job. sometimes, it’s all just business.

[x-atlas-x]

Yugi could remember the last time he’d felt this heartbroken. He remembered sitting outside with tears streaming down his cheeks. He remembered clutching his knees to his chest, his shoulders shaking as he sobbed.

He admired the full moon and glittering stars above him through his blurry vision. He vowed to never let himself feel this way, but it had happened again. It happened twice, and he was beyond furious with himself.

How could he be so stupid?

He heard footsteps behind him. He quickly wiped his tears and covered the sound of his sniffles with a cough muffled into his sleeve.

“You don’t have to pretend you’re not bawling your eyes out.”

“I’m not,” He grumbled. “It’s just allergies.”

“I’ve been standing here for the past five minutes. I know you’ve been crying this whole time.”

Yugi rolled his eyes at Atem’s inability to respect his privacy. He peered over at him when his roommate sat down beside him.

“You really suck. You shouldn’t watch someone while they’re having a pity party,” Yugi huffed. “It’s strictly private business.”

“To be fair, I came out here to tell you that the shower’s available for you—you know, like you asked,” Atem’s cocky smirk didn’t make him feel any better. “It’s not my fault I accidentally stumbled out here while you’re weeping all over the place.”

Yugi sighed, “Yeah, well, you should’ve walked away as soon as you realized it.”

“Maybe,” Atem shrugged. “I suppose it’s a good thing you’re not doing this in the shower. You would definitely run out of hot water—though, that would’ve been amusing to hear…”

“You just love to watch me suffer,” Yugi mumbled, shaking his head in disappointment.

“Only when it’s harmless,” Atem frowned. “I’m sorry about what happened. You didn’t deserve that.”

“It doesn’t matter,” Yugi muttered. “It happened regardless of whether or not I deserved it.”

“Your boy—I mean, ex—was a prick.”

“He didn’t act that way when we first started dating.”

“They never do,” Atem hummed, “but they have to start showing their true colors at some point.”

“After a year and a half of being together?” Yugi winced when he felt another rush of tears flooding his eyes. “God, I thought I fucking knew him so well, but—“

“You didn’t,” Atem finished. “He’s notorious for that. He woos people, butters them up, then dumps them out of the blue. He always makes them feel like they’re the problem, when they’re not. You’re not the problem, Yugi. He is.”

“I guess…” Yugi trailed off. “I hate feeling like this. I wish it didn’t hurt so much.”

“I know,” Atem wrapped an arm around Yugi’s shoulders and pulled him into his side. “It’ll be okay, though. You’ll move on, and you’ll get over him at some point. He’s not worth dwelling over.”

Yugi nodded and swallowed around the lump in his throat. He laid his head on Atem’s shoulder, then timidly asked, “Will you stay with me?”

“I will. If it gets any colder, though, I’m dragging your ass inside. My hair’s wet, and I’m not risking getting hypothermia.”

Yugi playfully scoffed, “It’s not that cold out here.”

“You’re not the one with wet hair.”

“Good point.”

They lost track of how much time they spent out there. At some point, Atem tugged Yugi to his feet and led him inside, complaining about his hair still being damp. They bid each other a good night, then disappeared into their respective rooms to get some sleep.

And if Yugi wandered into Atem’s room in the middle of the night, then that was nobody else’s business but his own.

[nyssaswitch]

Chapter 11

Y/N’s POV

The doorbell rings, I make my way to the door and am greeted with a familiar face.

“Alex? What the hell are you doing here?”

“Y/N? Y/N! You have no idea how long I’ve been trying to get a hold of you.”

“Well maybe I didn’t want you to find me for a reason.”

“Oh, come on babe, I miss you.”

“Don’t call me babe.”

“Why are you being like this?”

“Like what? We’re over, I’ve told you this.”

“Please just come back to me.”

“No, we broke up for a reason.”

“I still want you.”

“Well I don’t” I say with an edge to my voice.

“Goodbye Alex”.

I shut the door, but Alex blocks it with his foot.

“I don’t think so, we’re talking about this now”.

“There is nothing to talk about”, I bite back.

“Are you here with another guy? Is that it?”

“What? No. And even if I was, it’s none of your business.”

He scoffs.

He takes a few steps forward “you know you still want me” he murmurs.

I back away anxiously.

He keeps inching forward until my back hits the wall.

“Why won’t you just admit it to yourself?”

He creeps forwards and suddenly smashes his lips against mine.

“Wha-”.

He continues, while his kisses slowly become more forceful.

“Alex, what has gotten into you?”

“Hmm I’ve missed this”.

Suddenly he slides his hand under my shirt, groping my breasts.

“No!” 

I try to wriggle free.

“Don’t play hard to get” he chuckles. You used to love this.

I angrily spit in his face.

“You bitch”. He slaps my face and grabs my neck and starts choking me.

I cough and kick him in the balls as hard as I can.

I break away from his grip and run away.

“Help!”, “help!”, “Pablo, Marc?” “Where are you guys?” “Where is everyone?”

“Don’t you run away from me” Alex grunts.

I run towards the bathroom and lock the door as quickly as I can.

I fall to the floor weeping.

“Y/N, Y/N, open up!”

I look for my phone, shit, I don’t have it on me.

“Go away”.

“Please I just wanna talk”.

“No I wail, you’ve already done enough”.

“What will it take for you to give me another chance?”

“I’d never take you back, not in a million years!”

“Don’t be like this.”

“I don’t know why you’re acting so distant.”

“Please Y/N, I”ll give you anything you want, please just open the door.”

“Please”

“Please”, his voice sounds more desperate.

“Y/N/!”

The doorknob starts to move.

Alex continues to slam his fists into the door.

“Goddammit, open up.”

“For fuck’s sake, just open up!”

“You can’t hide in there forever.”

He starts to kick the door.

Héctor’s POV

“Hey man, who are you? What the hell are you doing here?”

“Hey dude, stop.”

“Don’t touch me!”

“Woah, calm down, you can’t just barge in here like that.”

“I’m not intruding Y/N knows me, doesn’t she?”

“Y/N, tell him you know me.”

Y/N starts sobbing uncontrollably.

“Y/N, Y/N calm down, just tell me what’s going on.”

“Y/N? Please answer me.”

“Mate she clearly doesn’t wanna talk to you.”

“Why’s she in there sobbing? Huh?”  

“I don’t know, must be on her period.”

“You’re full of shit”.

“I’m so sick of you” Alex says.

Before I know it he lunges at me and I feel myseIf toppling over.

Oh, he’s asking for it.

“I don’t know who you are, but no one hurts Y/N”.

I walk towards him and start dealing out blow after blow, until he’s laying below me a whimpering mess.

“Please, please, just stop”.

“Shut up” I say as I punch him in the face.

I lean over and whisper into his ear “if you ever come close to her again, you”ll regret it”.

“Ye- yes”.

“Now scurry off”.

Alex starts limping towards the door, I shut I resolutely shut it behind me.

“Y/N?”

I can hear her sobbing.

“Please open up.”

Y/N starts crying even harder.

“Please, he’s gone, I promise”.

The lock slowly turns around and I see Y/N’s tear-stained face. Deflatedly she falls into my arms and starts sobbing uncontrollably.

“It’s okay, I’m here for you.”

I hold her closely against my chest and I can feel a wet spot starting to form on my shirt.

I don’t know what to say, what will make her stop crying. The only thing I know is that I feel the need to protect her.

We stand in front of the bathroom, while time seems to stand still.

I can hear some murmuring in the distance.

“Oh my god, what happened?”

“Héctor are you okay?”

“What’s going on?”

“Why’s Y/N crying?”

“Where were you guys?” I ask angrily.

“Outside? Why.”

“Why? Because Y/N was in the bathroom, crying her heart out and if it weren’t for me that creep would’ve pestered her for god knows how long.”

“Creep? What creep?”

“Some guy was bothering Y/N, she’d locked herself in the bathroom while he was trying to get in.”

“I’m not quite sure what transpired, she hasn’t talked to me yet.”

“What guy?” Gavi is fuming.

“Relax, I’ve already taken care of it.”

Gavi raises his eyebrow.

“I beat him to a pulp.”

“Good”, Gavi mutters.

“I’m really sorry we weren’t there, we were just outside and couldn’t hear anything.” Frenkie said.

“We never meant for this to happen.” Áron said.

“I know” I respond.

I try to break away from Y/N.

“No!” She shrieks.

“Please, please don’t leave me, she says, chest heaving.”

“I won’t I say quickly.” While embracing her.

“Please stay with me”. She mutters.

“Always.” I respond.

“What do you need?” I ask her.

“I’d like to lie down”.

“Of course”.

I take her to her bedroom, I wait standing in the doorframe, not wanting to intrude.

“Will you lay with me?” She asks with a small voice.

“Of course.”

Before I know it we’re laying down while Y/N nuzzles her head against my chest. I lean into her and slowly start stroking her hair.

“What happened with that guy back there? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“He, that was my ex, Alex.”

“Ex?”

“Yeah, he wouldn’t leave me alone and appeared on Gavi’s doorstep out of nowhere.”

“Geez”.

“He wouldn’t leave and after I tried shutting him down multiple times he got physical.”

“Physical?”

“He touched me.”

“Like?”

“Yes,” she croaks and starts sobbing.

My chest tenses, that bastard.

“Don’t worry, I”ll make sure that he”ll never lay a finger on you ever again, I promise.”

“I was so scared, I tried screaming for help and no one came.”

“I’m so sorry, we were outside and coudn’t hear a thing, otherwise I would’ve come sooner.”

“I know, you don’t have to apologize.”

“I do, fuck Y/N I feel so bad for intervening that late.”

“Don’t be, at least you were there.”

“But I was too late, he already hurt you by the time I arrived. I can’t forgive myself. I hate seeing you like this. I hate that you made you feel this way.”

“You have no idea how grateful I am that you were there Héctor”.

“Still, you shouldn’t have had to lock yourself in the bathroom.”

“Héctor when will you stop?” She sighs.

“I”ll stop once I see his limp body on the floor”, I bite back.

Y/N looks up at me with doe eyes, I’m transfixed in her gaze.

She moves towards me and places a gentle kiss on my lips. I’m taken aback but quickly answer her by placing my hand on her cheek and kissing her back. I kiss her back hungrily. I’ve been waiting for her to do this since forever.

“There, I knew that’d shut you up”. She giggles.

“It did”, I grin.

“How’d you know?”

“I had an inkling.”

“You have no idea how long I’ve waited for this.”

“Really?”

Really.

“I’m glad you’re here.” She says.

Me too.

And all of a sudden I can’t stand it anymore, being this close to her, without shooting my shot.

I kiss her back eagerly and position my body so that I’m on top of her.

I pull back and look at her face, she looks at me serenely and I push back a couple of hairs that had gotten into her face.

“Do you want this?”

“Yes”.

“Are you sure? I mean you seemed pretty shaken up back there.”

“Stop talking”, she says.

I take off my shirt and continue my slow assault. I make my way to her neck leaving small kisses on it.

Then I take off her shirt, her bra until she’s bare naked in front of me.

“That’s not fair, you’re still wearing pants.”

“That’s true”, I say and I quickly take both my pants and undergarments off.

I’m already hard and seeing Y/N beneath me turns me on more than it should.

I push two fingers inside of her and she lets out a gasp.

“Ready?”

Ready.

I slide in and give her some time to adjust.

“Hmmf”.

“Are you okay?” I ask worriedly.

“Yes, it’s just”, she blushes.

I chuckle in understanding, “big”? I enquire.

“Yes.”

“Don’t worry babe, I”ll go slow.”

I start thrusting until I feel Y/N’s walls clenching around me.

“Fuck baby, you’re so tight.”

“Please Héctor, please keep going.”

“Of course,” I grin.

“Say my name again”.

“Héctor, oh god, Héctor, faster, faster.”

I speed up my movements, until I feel I’ve reached the edge.

“Babe I’m gonna cum, if you don’t want me to cum inside of you, you should tell me now.”

“No Héctor, I wanna feel all of you,” she whines.

“Okay doll”, I thrust into her a couple of times. The fifth thrust sends me over the edge and cum starts shooting out of my cock. It twitches a couple of times, before I calm down. I pull out.

“Fuck babe, you made me cum so hard.”

“You’re welcome.”

I place a kiss on top of her head.

“You know, I could go again.” She says.

“Your wish is my command,” I say, while I get ready for round two.

[rosemaryreaper]

Where was Nick when Hancock evacuated the Diamond City ghouls to Goodneighbor?

Back in September, I started working on a fic that covered exactly that…then I tossed it aside because I thought it was bad. But now I actually want to finish it. It’s a short Nick POV fic that follows the three days before McDonough passes the Anti-Ghoul decree. Also featured are Ellie, Security Captain Lennie Sullivan, and a still human Hancock. Here’s a snippet from Chapter 2, which is the night before everything goes to hell.

* * * *

In the end, there was nothing to be done but wait. Ellie returned with more than enough documents to fit the bill, and after another round through the line, the guard let him through with minimal hostility. When he tried to subtly linger to keep an eye on things, Security threatened to shoot him for loitering, so there was no choice but to return to the office. Lennie never returned. Neither did many of the ghouls.

Convincing his old circuit board of a brain to focus on work after that morning was difficult, but it didn’t change the fact that he still had a half dozen interconnected missing persons cases on his desk. Sitting around doing nothing wasn’t going to help anyone, ghoul or missing girl, so the least they could do was be productive with the spare time. He got Ellie to bring out what she had dubbed “the conspiracy board”—a big map of the Commonwealth they had pinned to a corkboard—and the two of them spent the afternoon moving around colored pins and strings, trying to work out which route the traffickers were using to smuggle these girls around the state.

“Think Bunker Hill could be a stopover?” Ellie asked, tapping her fingernail on a red circle to the northeast.

“They’d have to go through Goodneighbor first,” Nick said.

“I don’t doubt it. Sounds like the sort of business Vic’s gang would get mixed up in. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s responsible for this whole horrible trade.”

“Still could be a third party. Or a bit of both. We won’t know till we learn more.” He paused. “But I wouldn’t be surprised either.” He added another pin to the board. “If they’re using Bunker Hill, then they aren’t the only party stashing that particular kind of cargo there overnight. I have a contact I can talk to, see if his guys have noticed any odd goings on.”

“Sounds promising,” Ellie said.

“Let’s hope so. This is one trail I absolutely do not want to leave to get cold.”

Arturo was the neighborhood tourist. Nick would have to catch him alone sometime soon; ask him to get a message through to Deacon and his crew. If anyone was an expert on smuggling people through the Commonwealth undetected, it was the Railroad.

The door screeched open, and a choked sob tumbled through its frame. Violet shuffled in, fully weeping within Riley’s embrace. To her, Riley said, “Here, sweetheart, let’s just sit down for a spell, okay?” To the rest of the room, she said, “I’m going to fucking kill someone.”

“Oh, Violet.” Ellie rushed to grab a blanket from the bedroom. “Here, have a seat, honey.” While Riley lowered Violet into the cushioned chair, Ellie wrapped the blanket around the poor ghoul.

Jax stumbled out of the bedroom, bleary-eyed and in their undershirt, which had rolled up to expose their bandages. “Vi? What happened?”

Riley’s brows shot up. “What the hell happened to you?”

“New exercise regime,” Jax said.

“Jesus Christ,” Riley said. “Somebody jumped you.”

“What?” Violet gasped through tears.

“It’s nothing, Vi,” Jax said. “What’s wrong?”

Violet let out another sob. “I’ve never been s-so humiliated.”

“Oh no,” Ellie said. “They didn’t accept any of your papers?”

“None! The boys and I tried everything. Yefim even tried to draw up something last minute, but they wouldn’t take any of it! Now I’m going to lose everything—my home, my job. I won’t survive outside the Wall, not for a night.” She bowed her head and cried.

Ellie yanked open the drawers of her desk, pulling out a whole stack of handkerchiefs and a mug, the latter of which she filled from the coffee thermos. She murmured to Violet, out of even Nick’s broad earshot, until she could convince her to hold the mug in her hands. Nick sent a silent thanks to fate that he had hired her. He had been about to say something a hell of a lot more blunt.

“Nonhumans,” Riley snarled. “Nonhumans! We’re not another species. We’re not animals. I have half a mind to march up to the Stands right now—kick down doors until I find every councilman responsible. They want to see feral? I’ll show them feral.”

Nick said, “You’ll get yourself shot.”

“I’ll get myself shot outside too. This way will be quicker.”

Jax said, “None of our lot are getting shot outside if I can help it. Not if they stick with me.”

“Oh, look, it’s the ghoul savior,” Riley deadpanned. “Right now, if I had to bet on who would win in a fight, you or a mole rat, I’d back the mole rat.”

“It’s not all hopeless, is it?” Ellie asked, rubbing Violet’s back. “Some ghouls still managed to vote. Riley, you did.”

Riley scowled. “I did, barely, because I’m fortunate. They gave us no warning, no time to get our papers in order—and a lot of ghouls didn’t. Screw all the drifters, I guess.”

Nick could sense Jax giving him a look out of the corner of his eye. One of the “I told you so” variety. Ellie was giving him a different kind of look. One that placed far too must trust in his nonexistent ability to overcome the odds. You can do something, Nicky. Right?

Nick could do something. He could turn his investigation towards the city, root out who was pulling the strings—who had organized the guards, who had influenced the Council, who had to benefit from all the chaos. It would take time, but he was nothing if not persistent. His joints hadn’t rusted to a halt yet.

But the ghouls didn’t have time. They had tonight. The proverbial nuke had already been launched. Catching the crook here wouldn’t save anyone until after there was no one left to be saved. So, Nick would do something all right: he would shield them from the blast best he could and help those who survived out of the debris. No more. No better.

“Jax is working on an escape route,” Nick said. “I’ve been scrounging up supplies. You need something—help organizing a caravan, a spare gun, anything—you say the word.”

The room calmed, but not in a comfortable way. The room calmed in the same way a snake calms when it is too cold to move. Violet had quieted. Jax looked determined; Riley grim. Ellie turned her face away.

Jax crossed over to Violet, offering her a hand up. “Come on, Vi. Why don’t we get you back to the Dugout? You look like you could use something stronger than coffee.”

Violet accepted, sniffling, and they slipped an arm around her shoulders. With a quiet murmur of thanks to Nick, she and Jax made their exit. Riley didn’t follow. She gazed down at the empty chair, then up at Nick with that grim expression. She stalked forward, and he froze, startled, as she threw her arms around him.

Most folks weren’t lining up to give the metal man hugs. It wasn’t the kind of relationship he had with Ellie, who was technically his employee, and it wasn’t something he would ever initiate with a client, no matter how distraught. He was hyper aware of his own strength as he lifted his arms, and they hung suspended for too long as he tried to recall the last time he had calibrated them. He briefly considered blacking out to run a quick diagnostic.

But the moment had already gone on too long, and something of the old Nick kicked in. He rested his hands on her back.

“Hey now, Doc, this isn’t like you,” he said with something like humor.

Riley chuckled, with something a little less like humor. “Just saying thank you, gumshoe—for everything. In case I don’t get the chance to.” She pulled away. “I could use a drink too. Might as well celebrate my last night, while it lasts. Feel free to join.” Then she made her exit.

Ellie was on the verge of a question again, but she still didn’t want to ask it, because she still wasn’t looking at him. He looked at the board with all its strings and pins. He looked at the empty chair, the abandoned blanket, the untouched coffee. He released a long breath, forever weaker than it should be. Then he donned his coat and his hat, and he offered his secretary his arm.

It got her attention. With a faint smile, she linked her elbow with his, resting her other hand on his forearm. And they made their exit too.

[razorblade180]

Familiar Waters

Aether:Hey Nilou, are you busy today?

Nilou:Actually your timing couldn’t have been better. No performances today so the stage can have maintenance. Is something wrong?

Aether:No. there’s just this place I really want to show you. I think besides a handful other people I know, you’re someone who really deserves to see this.

Nilou:Wow. When you put it like that, how can I say no? Not that I was planning to. *grabs his hand* Lead the way.

Aether:You’re going to be holding my hand for long time. It’s kinda far.

Nilou:*smiles* Even better.

xxxxx

Boy, Aether wasn’t kidding about distance. Nilou wasn’t expecting him to take her into the desert. Not that it was a problem. She’s made the trip countless times and knew how to take care of herself. If there was any place to be a hydro user, then the desert had to be the best one. Warding off the heat for the both them was easy.

She didn’t need to do it long before they went inside ruins a couple times then out from new ways. Each time she wondered if they had arrived, yet Aether didn’t seem too interested in the beauties of the old paintings and landscapes.

Nilou:Been here before?

Aether:Yeah. There were a lot more robots. Also traps.

Nilou:You really do live a colorful life. Don’t work too hard. Is the place we’re going also dangerous?

Aether:It’s actually one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever seen.

They make it to what should be the heart of the desert. Whirling sandstorms and its wind keeps Nilou’s attention from noticing the platform under their feet is moving down. It eventually stopped and they continued through a cave.

Nilou:Huh? Oh! Y’know I’m fairly familiar with lots of local legends, stories, and Sumeru’s general history. Even so, I don’t think I realized how much technology was in the desert.

Aether:I don’t even think half the scholars really know. I wouldn’t know anything if it weren’t for the people I meet on commissions. It’s a little scary honestly.

Nilou:The people of the commissions?

Aether:Both? Most of the time they’re looking for one thing and we end discovering lots of things. Most of them are very…daunting.

Nilou:If that’s the case, are you sure spending your downtime like this is good? You could be resting.

Aether:I’m alright. You were okay spending your day off to humor me. Now I think I kept you waiting long enough.

He let go of her hand and took off running. It caught Nilou off guard but she quickly ran after him, only a few steps behind.

After one more turn they were out of the cave. Instantly, Nilou stopped moving. The dancer’s eyes became unblinking as they stared out towards an endless sunset. Lush grass covered the area and surrounded a still, unmoving body of water. Nilou couldn’t make heads or tails of it. It was as if she had entered a living photo. The entire world was still, yet so brimming with life. What stilled her heart further was the sight of a certain purple flower on a small island right in the middle.

Nilou:What is this place?

Aether: The Orchard of Pairidaeza. Had to help a friend get here to fulfill a promise. *sits down* Still takes my breath away. This place is a memorial for-

He didn’t have to finish. Or rather, he was silenced by the sight of Nilou’s tears. The girl was caught off guard by her own reaction, awkwardly laughing as she tried to wipe her face, but Nilou couldn’t get herself to stop crying for some reason. Never has heart felt so elated yet mournful. The beauty of this place was overwhelming and so very personal in a way she couldn’t describe.

Aether watched quietly. He had a feeling this might happen to the gentle soul. Even Nahida had found herself weeping the first time he brought her here.

Nilou:I’m…I’m sorry. I- I can’t crying for some reason?

Aether:Take your time. Feel whatever you feel.

xxxxx

Nilou:*sniffling* I’m sorry I cried for long…

Aether:I’m telling you it’s okay. Honestly it would be strange not to cry here.

Nilou:Are you sure it’s okay for someone like me to know about this place? I mean this is a big deal.

Aether:*pats head* Nilou, I think out of everyone I’ve met should know this place. I’m sure Nahida and the Goddess of Flowers would think the same. If you ever need a place to get away from it all, I know you’ll do right if you come here.

Nilou nodded softly, trying to compose herself. She walked further into the beautiful area that was right out of a dream. It didn’t take long before she realized it was possible to walk on the water. She looked back at Aether, who spurred her on to keep going. Nilou followed her heart and went all the way to the tiny island where three seats made of wood and covered in genuine Padisarah. Nilou didn’t dare to sit on any throne or pick any plant. Instead she stood before them ready to perform. Somehow, deep down, dancing didn’t only feel right, but important. Not to Goddess she idolized so much, but to the two thrones on each side. Nilou couldn’t say for certain who they were meant for, but she wanted to pay tribute to them all the same.

Aether watched in silence for afar, witnessing a once in a lifetime performance. He would be sure to tell Nahida about it, if she didn’t know already somehow. Perhaps her and Nilou would visit together one day? As for the third seat, maybe he could convince their successor if he ever gets the chance.

xxxxx

Time really escaped the both of them. What was a bright morning was a cool night as they walked the path to Sumeru City in relative silence. Aether could tell Nilou was still basking in the experience. If that wasn’t enough to tell notice her joy, then the giveaway was their hands. He had tried to grab it like he always does, but Nilou surprised him when she she interlocked their fingers, swinging the joined hands slightly. It was sweet, but also really embarrassing for him.

Nilou:Three

Aether:Hmm?

Nilou:This is the third time you’ve done something that’s allowed me to give a performance completely out of this world.

Aether:I remember the dream loop, but what was the second?

Nilou:The jail break for Lesser Lord Kusanali.

Aether:…I guess that was pretty out of this world. Man, maybe I do need a break? That almost felt normal.

Nilou:Well…I’m also free tomorrow. Do you have anything in the morning to do?

Aether:Not necessarily. Tomorrow should be pretty light.

Nilou:In that case, push your errands until noon. *red* Let’s hangout all night.

Aether:*red*….I didn’t show you that place in hopes of-

Nilou:I know, silly. I just…think it would be a really good idea. Why stop good things that are happening?

Aether:Teapot it is.

Nilou:It’s okay. I live alone.

Aether:True, but I don’t want to upset any neighbors. Plus you have a public image. I’d hate to cause trouble for you.

Nilou:*deeply moved* Aether?

Aether:Hmm?

Nilou:*kisses cheek* No work tomorrow.

Aether:…..

Aether:Okay.

[hagatha-christie]

July reads

The bad:

Wolfsong by TJ Klune: No thanks! Maybe the worst thing I’ve read all year!

The Regional Office is Under Attack! by Manuel Gonzales: felt like I was missing half a book. Why was the office under attack? Idk! What did the office do? Unclear!

The fine: Work for It by Talia Hibbert: one of the better romance writers IMO, but most of the romances I read are, at best, just okay! I’m not sure what it would take to push it to “great” status for me. Someone recommend a romance they think was great and I’ll give it a try.

Business or Pleasure by Rachel Lynn Solomon: pls see above. I did laugh out loud during one scene, and also loved that one of the characters was on a show that’s not Teen Wolf but is Teen Wolf.

Serious Concerns by Wendy Cope: ok why did I think her poetry was very serious and heartfelt this bitch is GOOFY and I really enjoyed it. It felt very of its time but in a good way. Would pair well with When Harry Met Sally, or anything by Carrie Fisher.

The Green Knight, translated by Bernard O’Donoghue: fun and more of a literary read than Sweeney Astray, which is similarly an old tale about some guy wandering the countryside. I’m insufferable so I loved this movie and needed to pick up the actual story.

The good/great:

The Best at It by Maulik Pancholy: this was a middle grade book that’s about ~being yourself~ and ~standing up for yourself~ but it was so cute and funny and such a fun read.

When My Brother Was an Aztec by Natalie Diaz: her metaphors are absolutely incredible, as is her imagery. Can’t wait to read her other collection

The Devil’s Element by Dan Egan: mostly picked it up bc I loved Egan’s other book, and this was similarly great! V niche book about the history of phosphorous including its discovery and different ways it’s been mined, and then goes into how excess phosphorous in the water supply has every waterway completely fucked. He does a great job of showing how interconnected these issues are. Side note, poor Floridians have enough to deal with already and now I find out about the shitshow that is Lake Okeechobee?!

Teaching to Transgress by bell hooks: similarly niche, but basically affirmed all of my personal philosophies about what teaching should be, because lately I’ve been questioning if I’m just really naive. It’s geared toward people in higher ed but if you’re an educator in any capacity I really recommend this.

Too Bright to See by Kyle Lukoff: technically for middle schoolers but it still made me absolutely weep with joy. It’s pretty incredible books like this exist now for kids that age, it makes me a lil emotional to think about

Cantoras by Carolina de Robertis: listen. Listen. LISTEN. I tore through this book, it is beautiful and affirming and devastating and I loved every second of it, and I’m planning on reading all of de Robertis’ other books

Currently reading: The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty (so fun!) and The World and All That It Holds by Aleksandar Hemon (confusing so far but I like it!)

[cupidskissx]

How is the book? I'm reading the song of Achilles (I know super late) and I'm at the very end and it's breaking my heart

A Little Life was simultaneously the best and worst novel to reintroduce me to reading!

I’d been on a reading hiatus for ages — just too busy and prioritising trying to write over reading.

I kept seeing posts on Instagram of people weeping over A Little Life and I wanted to feel what they were feeling. I didn’t know anything about the premise except it was about four college friends so I went in completely blind.

I went in wanting to be emotionally destroyed and it thoroughly succeeded. I strongly suggest if you’re someone who has triggers (of any kind) please read the trigger warnings online or let me know and I’ll tell you what they are because the themes are DARK and it’s very intense / stomach churning at times. Please be careful if you choose to pick it up.

I also 100% recommend to read and listen to the audiobook at the same time because it can be a very intricate storyline at times, I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without the audiobook.

It was truly a fantastic read; so beautifully written. It felt ALIVE, like I was there, living in their world. You grow to care so deeply for the characters because you get so close to them. It’s a very indulgent read in terms of how rich the content / character studies are!

I’m still thinking about it daily and I finished it two weeks ago, I also haven’t been able to pick up another book, I’ve just been re-reading the happy moments (loose term) before my heart was repeatedly ripped out of my chest.

Please let me know if you ever read it so we can decompress, I had to take the day off work when I finished it because I was too emotionally distraught.

Song of Achilles is at the very top of my list of books to read I bought it years ago! I hope you’re okay 🥺 I cant wait to read it, it has everything I know I’ll love and I can’t wait to be torn apart by it! ❤️

[stragglerr]

In a gut-wrenching process of redeveloping and redefining my practice. Yes, the Goddess is there; she guides me to pleasure and transformation always. But I am feeling - again, maybe it’s that I’ve forgotten it, rather than feeling for the first time - the call to the City and to the spirits that live here, with me. I am seeking some sort of urban animistic practice - a nonanthropocentric urban ecology that seeks to encounter the spirits of the city and the land. I feel like maybe I’ve spent a lot of time reading/being around people really interested in tradcraft and hedgecraft, which are both types of craft that speak to me and call to me, but I still feel like those practices I’ve tried before require finding exceptional points of enchantment.

Yes, the big old wood that’s in the north of the city has been a space of power and the genus loci there have been generous and stern with me. But I need to find ways outside of the exceptional nature of a space. What spirits are in my garden, on my routes that I walk all the time?

And can I develop a practice that recognizes the dispossessed of my city as ancestors and spirits as equally important guides? I remember my pilgrimage to the Tower I took around my birthday last summer. I remember feeling the weight of them there, of nearly weeping in Lincoln too, putting my hands to gouges in walls made by them. I feel them when I walk in the East Ends, their ghosts press against my shoulders.

So that’s where I’m at with things, I guess. I am trying to square the interests I have in tradcraft and animism with the fact that I live in the city and feel a deep and profound connection with and love for the city; that the woods don’t call to me in the same way. But I do want my practice to attend to the land - and London is a forest and London was once swamp and meadow and woods - and I am really uninterested in technology as a practice method or tool honestly. So I’m in a place of research and experimentation. It’s all very early days, still.

Still. My early forays into research feel unsatisfactory: I’m struggling to find people doing it in ways I admire. Which is okay, and maybe even better than okay. It just also means that I’m feeling vexed by what turns up when you google and tumblr-search ‘urban magick’ or ‘urban witchcraft.’ So I think I’m going to try to document how I’m developing my practice.

My first order of business is to bring myself to take more walks, to have my pockets laden with offerings to leave when they feel appropriate. They need to be night walks, I think. My practice has always developed stronger and faster when it’s at night. To that end, I’m pairing this step with reading Night Walking: A Nocturnal History of London; and likely also finally finishing The People’s History of London, which I bought nearly 2 years ago now.

[sarah-dipitous]

Hellsite Nostalgia Tour 2023 Day 188

Devil May Care/The Angels Take Manhattan

“Devil May Care”

Plot Description: Dean shocks Sam when he opens the Impala’s trunk to reveal he’s kidnapped the King of Hell. Meanwhile, Abaddon rises with plans to take over his role.

Would I Survive the First Five Minutes??: oh, we START with Dean dragging in a corpse, but it doesn’t seem like anyone else is dying

I really hope she has even ONE episode where she doesn’t get brutalized…

Ok maybe it wasn’t Dean dragging in a corpse, just some shmuck recruited by Abaddon. Love that ❤️ she’s back

I don’t like whatever’s going on in this bunker now. You don’t get to keep both Kevin AND Crowley there

Honestly, yeah. That’s probably the best way to torture Crowley: leave him alone in a dark room with no one to make snide quips to

I would 100% accept her as queen. She’s as cruel as she is beautiful

Abaddon is having so much fun and I love that for her

I can’t believe Kevin 1) chose Solo as his fake last name (I actually can) and 2) basically blackmailed the military officer

ABADDON HAS NEVER DONE ANYTHING WRONG EVER. Everything she’s done is completely right

Nooo…honestly, it was inevitable, but you shouldn’t have left Kevin and Crowley alone in the bunker. He’s just a KID, and Crowley’s a centuries old demon. I can’t even blame him if he gets manipulated into freeing Crowley

PLEASE. I’m begging. Just ONE episode. A little holy water splash is fine but she’s already been through so much at the Winchesters’ hands

I……….she could possess me any day. I wouldn’t want to actually do the things she’s threatening to make Dean do should she possess him, but the way she talks about it 🥰🥰🥰 I’m very normal about her

I still don’t trust Ezekiel.

Fuuuuck. It does look like…oh, Crowley’s still here. But where’s Kevin??

Mmmmmmmmmmmm, he’s gonna think that this is Dean only needing him because he’s useful…..omg, ok, so turns out if Kevin cries, I cry. He’s needed cuz he’s FAMILY. Eat your heart out, Fast and Furious franchise

Godddd, when will the secrets STOP?!

“The Angels Take Manhattan”

Plot Description: the Angels are back, and this time they’re taking over Manhattan

This little girl’s got no business playing peekaboo with a Weeping Angel. The fuck

Wait. That’s not how they work. You disappear from your timeline…you don’t…you don’t make it back to your same timeline, do you?? And meet your old self? But…I guess…wibbly wobbly timey wimey

I’ve been to that rock they’re sitting on.

Oh. Oh Rory. Oh dear, sweet Rory who has apparently never been on the internet????? “Only [the Doctor] could fancy someone in a book”??? Good thing ao3 is down. It’s completely blow his mind to bits. Then again, just send him to any character tag here and same difference

And I had my picture taken at that fountain

Of course the protagonist of the book is actually River. (I remembered the author even now but I forgot the main character was River)

That giggling though. Creepy

Omg. Okay, I like all the weird time travely stuff. It’s one thing to go to one destination but it’s another to get a book from the past and then influence that book by going even further into the past. Just. Delightful

Ohhhhhhh the Doctor’s freak out about saying goodbye to Amy…telling River to get out of the Angel’s grasp without breaking her own wrist, to change the future that’s already been written. AND SHE WANTED TO LET HIM BELIEVE SHE HAD 😭😭😭

I can’t believe Amy just had to watch Rory die again…this time as an old man

Amy’s love for Rory is so beautiful and endearing, and it’s so dumb they ever made us doubt it

OMG YOU CANNOT MAKE HER WATCH HIM DIE AGAIN. TWICE?? IN ONE EPISODE??

I know this is supposed to be an emotional moment but the music is killing the mood

Except now we’re back in that graveyard……and I know what’s gonna happen and I hate it

It was the right thing but it doesn’t make it less heartbreaking. She’ll take any chance to see Rory again. Every time

Donna🤝Amy: gingers who tell the Doctor to not travel alone

[genyawritesshizz]

NO MINORS PLEASE

Gyomei x Reader

Tw: Sexual content

Blow jobs with a giant

Proof read? No! it’s 1am I love Gyomei and there’s so little fanfic of him I gotta get this shit out there!

What started out with the simple tracing of your finger along the gentle giants protruding veins of his form arms soon lead to a heated make out session. Though sloppy on his side, it had such warmth and love you couldn’t help but want to please your partner.

The book he had been reading moments ago now laid on the bedside table along side his precious prayer beads. His chest heaving and face a deep shade of red.

He had confided in you after you tried to jump head first (literally) into a sexual acts, that he in fact has never had a blow job. In fact Gyomei has never had a sexual partner, ever. He was previously much to dedicated to his journey of self discovery and inner balance to have time for a partner or need for one. He initially thought he would never need one.

That was until he met you. You where the light of his life now. His precious flower! His angel sent from above! He needed to take care of you. To provide for you. Gyomei took his job as your significant other very seriously.

Though there was only so much he could do. Being busy with missions and his duties as the head hashira meant limited time with you. So every second he could have with you he took advantage of. You did the same. Even if you had to sit and watch Gyomei water his plants for hours you still where happy to be in his presence and to hear his voice explain the intricacies of each and every one of his plants needs. It showed how much he paid attention and cared for the things around him.

“I’ve never had a romantic partner, no. I’m sorry” he had tears wailing up in his eyes. You’ve learned over the years of knowing Gyomei that crying has just his natural reaction to anything remotely emotional. You’d seen the big teddy bear weep for hours over a plant that wilted. Praying by it’s pot nonstop till you finally had to intervene. It took dozens of hugs and soft touches to calm him down.

“It’s okay Gyo! Would… would you like me to show you?” You twirled your fingers around his green yukata. His chest peaked through every so slightly. You lightly grazed the skin.

His usual demon slaying attire lay hung up for the night within your shared closet.

His breath shuddered softly.

“I don’t want to hurt you.”

“You could never hurt me Gyomei, I promise. Here I’ll lead” leaning forward you began repeating the same soft neck kisses you gave him earlier, only this time you occasionally sucked in small bits of his tanned skin. Always being cautious to avoid touching his necklace. Gyomei’s head slightly lulled back onto the mountain of pillows behind, a barely audible groan left his lips. This allowed you access to his jaw which you gladly peppered with even more kisses.

Though gyomei would never admit it, he was horribly touch starved and having you pamper him with all this affection had his head spinning.

Soon you founds yourself back up to his slightly agape lips.

Kissing was definitely not Gyomei’s strong suit but the more the two of you engaged in it the better he became. But, as soon as you bit on his bottom lip, he gasped. It wasn’t hard enough to hurt but definitely enough to surprise him. You’d never bitten him before! He actually loved it!

His ginormous hands came up to your fragile frame. First running the length of your back then gently caressing your face. He also loved how soft your skin was against his horribly calloused hands.

Your own hands began wondering. Finding the tie that held his nightwear together. Grabbing one end then slowly loosening it.

You broke the kiss gasping for air and looked into his pale white eyes.

Yes, gyomei was blind but he could see everything. His enhanced senses allowed him to see. He could sense the people and objects around him, creating images in his mind. His mind truly fascinated you.

“Is this okay?” You asked for permission. Receiving a simple nodded. Now with the knot completely undone, it allowed his robe to fall open. You admired his broad chest and toned abs. Gyomei was an absolute beast of a man, huge in statue at a staggering 7’2 and almost 300 pounds of pure muscle. He was an absolute work of art to look at.

Though unfortunately your staring made him a bit uncomfortable as he shifted slightly under your gaze. You found yourself lightly stroking face to comfort him, fingers occasionally brushing his hair out of the way. It’s usual spiked fashion fallen for the night.

“You’re beautiful Gyo.” As if it where even possible his face reddened even more.

“I’m sure you are too (y/n)”

With that your body slowly descended down his massive form trailed lower and lower tracing carelessly around his pecks and slots between abs. Along with leaving small kisses and marks, Before finding the waistband of his boxers. His breath hitched yet again.

Just from your kisses and touches he appeared to have a semi- erection. Already you could tell he was absolutely massive. Cock easily the biggest you’ve ever encountered. But it belonged to Gyomei and you’d give it your best try. You sat on your knees between his strong legs.

“Is this okay?” You teasingly swiped your finger under the band of fabric.

“Please” the man was at a loss for words. Typically he had much to say but at the moment he was struggling to hold back gasps and sighs the second you shimmied his boxers down. The cold air of your shared bedroom hitting his overheating cock.

“You’re so beautiful Gyomei.”

Your hand ghosted over it before lightly gripping onto the hot flesh. A soft moan left Gyomei’s lips. It had been so long since he’d even touched himself that the pure softness of your hands on his shaft had him melting.

Now fully erect you could truly admire him in all his glory. He’s easily over nine inches in length and very girthy. Fitting that in any hole would be a struggle but for him you’d try.

With a few pumps of your hand pre-cum already began dribbling out of his pink tip. More and more moans began filling the quiet room.

“More… please (y/n) more…”

Who where you to deny such a beautifully sung request?

Dipping your head down you licked a broad stripe up his length. From the base to the tip. Gyomei’s hand fisted the sheets and his head rolled back. He was melting already and the fun had just begun.

You licked him a few more times, focusing more on the head to enjoy the deliciously salty pre-cum.

“Ready?”

Before he could answer you, you dipped your head down again this time your lips enveloped his cock. Taking as much of him as you could into your mouth.

Gyomei loudly moaned, a hand coming out from the wadded up sheets to smack over his mouth.

You couldn’t help but moan with him. He sounded like absolute heaven when he made those delicious noises. The vibrations from it where sent down his cock causing his hips to lightly buck upwards. Just barely forcing a small amount more of his length in. You almost gagged but luckily you managed to hold it down.

Focusing on total control breathing like you always did you managed to focus on only breathing through your nose as you attempted to take him even further. Hollowing your checks to add suction and sliding your tongue along the vast veins and ridge of the underside of his cock you had the giant almost cumming already. His loud moans where stifled by his calloused hand much too your dismay.

Pulling of his member with a loud pop you looked up to him. His face pointed up at the ceiling. Eyes closed tight. Beads of sweat rolled down his forehead and his hand had a death grip over his mouth.

“I want to hear you, please” you begged him. You tugged at his hand with your unoccupied one and brought it to your head.

He was very curious as to why you’d put his hand on your head like some child who got a head pat for good behavior until you brought you lips back to his cock and soon he began gripping onto the delicate strands. Trying to be carful as to not push you down further despite the vast warmth and slick of your mouth pulling him in. Sensing this you gave him a few more pumps before pulling off one last time.

“Don’t hold back.”

“But.. I-I don’t wa-” his huffing and puffing was hauled by you giving him firm affirmation that you wanted him to express himself.

You returned yet again to your actions this time pleased to feel him apply light pressure to your head. Gently pushing you down.

Soon the two of you found a rhythm. Between his light pushes and your desire to please him you sound a slow yet delicious speed. You’d go down as are as you could, then come all the way back up to his twitching tip and suck vigorously. This made Gyomei an absolute moaning mess. His love drunk moans where music to your ears, encouraging you to keep going.

“Gods (y/n)…” you gasped out.

Soon the sweet sounds that filled the room where the wet slobbering of you mouth around his cock, along with your heavy breathing and his groans which were growing louder by the second.

You raised up one last time from his base, this time swirling your tongue around his tip before sliding it in his slit.

“I-I…. I’m going to…” he struggled to get the words out. The hand on your head gripped harder. Glancing over you noticed the poor bedding had been ripped by the sheer force of his grip.

You took him down as deep as you possibly could. You actually managed to take it all down your throat. His black brassily pubic hair scratched your nose.

Feeling the muscles of your throat contract around him was to much and with one mighty and loud moan he came undone. His back arched off of the bed as the most intense orgasm of his life rolled over him.

Rope after rope of thick cum painted your throat. Greedily you kept swallowing around him attempting to pull every ounce of delicious cum from him. That was until your felt him tense up and lightly pull on your hair, signaling he was near overstimulation.

With one last kiss to his still shacking tip you crawled back up to his heaving chest. His eyes where still screwed shut and his breath still came out in frantic puffs.

As you waited for him to calm down from his high, lightly played with his sweat slicked hair. Finally his white eyes opened again and stared up at you with utmost amazement. A glimmer flashed through them.

“Did you like it?”

He couldn’t help but chuckle at your childish question.

“I found it absolutely delightful, thank you (y/n).”

That night the two of you cuddled until sleep happily over took both of you. Of course Gyomei passed out first. Poor thing can slay demons all night but a little head will put him right to sleep.

From then on he secretly prays that you would be so generous as to perform that lovely act again sometime. It was quite fulfilling.

Bonus

Don’t ask anyone how but word got out that Gyomei got his first blow job and literally every other male Hashira is like 👁👄👁 or asks him fifty thousand questions about it.

God and Mitsuri bless her soul would curiously ask you how you managed to take something so massive to which you had to have a moment of silence. Because truth be told your jaw was sore as fuck the next day.

[jcwriting]

There’s A First Time For Everything

summary ↬ namjoon has never had a blowjob before. you’re about to change that.

pairing ↬ idol!namjoon x reader

genre ↬ smut, pwp (im not kidding there is zero plot to this), fluff, (new) established relationship 

word count ↬ 2.8k

warnings ↬ swearing, oral (m receiving), face fucking, choking, reader has a painful thigh kink (don’t we all), overuse of the word thigh

authors note ↬ listen,,,,i saw that picture of namjoon in shorts (you know the one) and i just,,,lost it. also, this is my first time posting fic for bts and im shitting bricks about it so pls be nice to me!!!!! i hope you enjoy this quick (thirsty) little ode to namjoon’s thighs. pls let me know what you think!

also, the gif above haunts me. everyday. okay, enjoy.

“I want to give you a blowjob.”

Namjoon choked on the swig of water he had just taken. The two of you were watching TV. Actually, Namjoon was watching TV. You were sitting on the floor at the coffee table with your laptop out to answer some work emails. But, you were distracted. Specifically by Namjoon’s shorts. More specifically, Namjoon’s thighs in said shorts. The smooth golden skin was begging for your lips and your fingers itched to scratch your nails down to his knees. Then, your eyes naturally glided further up to the apex of his thighs. Where you knew his cock was resting. Again, just begging to be in your mouth. The thought of your jaw and throat aching while he lost it above you consumed your mind. All hope was lost then.

“You…um. Sorry. You want to do that?”

You cocked your head to the side. “Uh, yeah. Wait, did you want me to ask? I’ll ask. Can I give you a blowjob? Please?”

Namjoon chuckled. “No, no. You don’t have to ask. It’s just, y’know, are you sure?”

“Yes,” you said slowly. What was he not getting? “Do you not want one?”

“No! No, oh my god. I want that. I definitely want that. That’s not the issue.”

“Then, what is?”

Namjoon blew out a breath that fluttered the hair that rested on his forehead. He cupped the back of his neck and rubbed awkwardly. “I’ve never had someone do that to me before. So-”

“What?” You would have been less shocked if he had told you that he was a closeted furry. The two of you had only been dating for about a month so the in-depth what things did your ex do in bed conversation hadn’t been fully fleshed out yet. You knew he had lost his virginity to his previous girlfriend and they had had a healthy sex life, so you had just assumed that him receiving oral was part of that. Yet…this man, this absolute Adonis of a man had never gotten his cock sucked? It was the most absurd thing you had ever heard in your life. “Hold on. You had a girlfriend before me, right? She didn’t go down on you? Ever?”

Namjoon looked like he wanted the couch to swallow him whole but you barely noticed. You were too busy experiencing the shock of your fucking life. “I did. But she - uh, no. She didn’t want to and I didn’t want to pressure her.”

Your heart melted a little before you shut your laptop. Healthy sex life your ass. You were sucking this mans dick and that was final. “I’m going to give you a blowjob, Namjoon. Right now.” You turned to him and began crawling forward. His eyes flew to your ass that swayed in the air and he audibly swallowed. “If you don’t want me to then you need to tell me within the next thirty seconds.”

“Oh God,” he whimpered and spread his legs a little wider. You were salivating. “Yes. As long as you’re sure-” Whatever he was going to say was cut off by a heavy groan as your hands slid up his thighs. Finally, you smiled to yourself as you bent your fingers and allowed your nails to dig into the meat of his inner thigh.

“I have a thing for your thighs,” you murmured. “Never realized I had a thigh kink until I met you.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. I want to ride your thighs. Will you let me?”

“God, yes.” Namjoon went to reach for your arms but you batted his hands away. This wasn’t about you right now. This was about him. You reached for your hair and quickly pulled it into a sloppy bun. His eyes followed your movements and you didn’t miss how the bulge in his shorts twitched.

“I need you to tell me if I do something that you don’t like, okay? I want to make you feel good. Don’t be afraid to talk to me. If you like something, let me know. If not, then definitely let me know.” Namjoon nodded feverishly. His eyes were almost black and his chest was straining against his white top. You smirked to yourself. This was going to be fun.

Bending down, you pressed a kiss to the top of his thigh. Your mouth dragged along his skin and you relished in the way he quivered beneath you. Following the seam of his leg before doing the same on the other. Nails pressed little crescent moons into his flesh before your thumbs smoothed over the marks. Your nose lifted the loose material of his shorts up to his hips and skimmed the exposed areas as your tongue reached out to flick the little freckle that found a home on his hip before you set your sights on his dick that was straining for you. Lips that had previously kissed his skin now moved to the fabric that jailed his heavy cock. Sitting back, your thumb traced the underside of his dick softly before you barely brushed over the head. The cotton dragged against your finger and Namjoon huffed loudly before lifting his hips further into your touch.

“Don’t tease.” Namjoon’s voice had lowered a few octaves and the deep tone had you clenching your thighs. His hands fisted the pillows next to him and you could feel the restraint he was exacting on himself through the trembling of his muscles.

“I’m not,” you promised. “I’m just making sure you’re ready.”

“I am. Swear to God.”

Unable to keep the smile off your face, you nodded and reached for the waistband of his shorts. He lifted his hips and helped you shove the material to his ankles. That was when you realized two things.

One, he was right. His cock laid thick and proud on his stomach and was weeping for you. He was of average length but his girth let you know that were going to struggle to fit him in your mouth. The thought only made you shiver in delight. A phantom pain panged in your gut when you took in the slight curve of the head, knowing it was going to hit everything you needed.

Second, he had the prettiest cock you had ever seen. You never thought dicks were pretty. In fact, you were pretty resolute on that thought. Most likely due to the disgusting amount of unsolicited dick pics you had received in your life. But, Namjoon’s?  You wanted to take a picture, frame it and admire it whenever you wanted to. The skin that stretched around his width was a shade darker than the rest of him and his cock head, a pretty red color, made you want to see how far down you could get the flush to go.

You wrapped your hand around his length and twisted up. Namjoon’s back arched off the couch and a string of curses fell off of his lips. Your thumb collected the glistening pre-cum on his tip and used it to smooth your palm over him.

“I normally don’t say this,” you said as you became infatuated with the vein that ran along the underside of his cock, “but if you want to send me a dick pic, I definitely won’t complain. Like, ever.”

“B-baby, I’ll give you whatever you want. Just keep doing what you’re doing.” Namjoon moaned, throwing his head back when your thumb pressed against the delicate skin that resided under the his mushroom tip.

You giggled lightly. “So sensitive. I’ve barely even started.”

Namjoon opened his mouth to say something but you didn’t give him a chance. You licked the vein that had caught your eye earlier and followed it to the top before enveloping the head of him into the heat of your mouth. You relished the broken groan that he let out. Several kitten licks were placed on his weeping slit before taking him deeper. You worked slowly, gauging his reaction as you took him further. He responded well, panting and moaning in encouragement, head still thrown back against the couch.

“You can look at me, you know,” you reminded him as he popped out of your mouth. Kisses were mouthed over the soft skin that was wrapped around the steel of his erection. Your hand used your spit as lube to tug him harder.

“Can’t,” Namjoon gasped. “Gonna blow my load if I watch you.”

“That’s kind of the whole point.”

“Not yet,” he whined. “I don’t want this to be over.”

You pinched his hip until he met your gaze, offering him a sweet smile. “This isn’t going to be the last time I get on my knees for you, baby.” You held his wide-eyed stare as you took him back into your mouth. Ignoring how his hands seemed to flutter around you, unsure of what to touch, you focused on sliding him further into your mouth. Then, you sucked hard, using your tongue to lave at the warm skin.

Namjoon lost it above you. He released a strangled moan that caused your core to absolutely gush. One hand finally tangled into your hair and the other gripped your shoulder with warning, which you ignored. You merely sucked and pulled harder. Namjoon’s hips flexed, causing the tip of him to slam into the back of your throat. Not expecting it, you couldn’t help but cough around him as your eyes watered.

“Oh, God! I’m so sorry.” Namjoon used the hand on your shoulder to yank you off. His thumbs wiped at the tears that trickled down your cheeks, the concern etched across his face made you feel warm inside. “Shit, are you okay?”

“I am, promise,” you assured him. “Just give me a second, okay?”

He nodded while pushing back some of your hair that had escaped your sloppy up-do. You gently removed his hands before looking down at his length that was still clutched in yours. As much as he had shocked you, the thought of him fucking your face was not something you shied away from. Really, it was exactly what you wanted. But you needed to prep a bit first.

When you took him back in your mouth, you focused on relaxing the muscles in your throat. Breathing deeply through your nose, you slowly worked yourself further down until your nose was pressed into the base of him. Spit trickled out of your mouth and over his balls as you pulled back. You did this a few more times, working past your gag reflex and allowing your throat to get used to the intrusion.

Namjoon was anything but quiet as you deep throated him. It was honestly the sexiest thing you had ever heard. While your past lovers hadn’t necessarily been quiet, the praises Namjoon kept raining on you and the beautiful noises he made were music to your ears. Your body certainly agreed. Your cunt ached to be filled and the fabric of your panties was soaked through. But, you ignored your needs and focused on the panting man before you.

“Okay,” you nodded as you popped him out of your mouth. “I’m ready.”

It took Namjoon’s brain a few seconds to process what you said. He shifted restlessly on the couch cushions as you ran your hands over his thighs. “Huh? W-what did you say?”

“I’m ready for you to fuck my face.”

His pupils were blown wide as he stared at you with an open mouth. “Are you sure? I don’t want to hurt you.”

“What if I want it to hurt?” You stared at him while purring the words that was his undoing. Namjoon’s eyes got impossibly darker as his chest expanded with a sharp intake of breath. He spread his legs wider and gently held the back of your head as he guided you down his shaft. You held eye contact with him as he cautiously raised his hips to meet your lips. Once he saw no signs of distress from you, he began thrusting more consistently as you bobbed your head to match his rhythm.

His steady movements didn’t last long but it didn’t bother you. You were more than happy to take over for him. Like you said, this wasn’t going to be the last time you worshipped his cock. The two of you had plenty of time to figure things out. Plus, knowing how much you clearly affected him gave you all the motivation you needed.

Your throat began to tense up again so you focused your attentions on his sensitive head and let your hands twist up to your mouth and back down. The sounds of your palm gliding along his slick skin and your lips sucking tightly filled the spacious living room. They were nearly drowned out by Namjoon, though.

“Baby, oh f-fuck…shit,” he keened loud and hard when your other hand moved to brush over his swollen balls. You cupped them gently and rolled them between your fingers. Even as he was practically thrashing against you, hips thrusting in an aimless rhythm, the hand he had originally placed on the back of your head remained there. He applied no pressure, allowing you to set the pace, but it also seemed to ground him. To remind him that this wasn’t a dream.

“M’gonna cum. Baby…baby, I’m gonna cum. Soon, oh God,” he babbled. You appreciated the warning but you didn’t need it. He was twitching wildly in your mouth and your tongue was coated with the salty essence of his pre-cum. In response, you ran your index finger on that sensitive spot behind his balls and that’s when Namjoon exploded.

Thick ropes of white shot down your throat, causing you to almost gag. Instead, you swallowed past the reflex and took as much as you could. By the fourth stream, a bit had managed to slip past the suction of your mouth and dribble down his cock. You were quick to clean up, licking at the mess the both of you had made before returning to his tip. You suckled the sensitive head until Namjoon practically shoved you away from him.

When you looked up you were met with a glorious sight. Namjoon was completely fucked out, twitching against the couch and his broad chest heaving for air. Sweat beaded his sharp jaw line and trickled down the column of his throat. His face was tilted towards the ceiling and his hair was haphazardly pushed off of his forehead. He looked completely ruined and entirely yours.

“Was that good?” You asked softly as you rose to your feet, ignoring the sharp ache in your knees. Namjoon made an unintelligible sound in the back of his throat that you took as a resounding yes. He cracked his eyes open and looked at you with such adoration you couldn’t help but blush.

“Really?” He murmured. “Don’t get shy on me now. You can’t just suck the life out of me one second and then start blushing like a school girl immediately after.”

“It’s called duality,” you muttered as your cheeks flushed darker. Namjoon snorted and reached for you, pulling you onto his lap. His spent cock nestled between your thighs and his eyes rolled back into his head when he felt the simmering heat through the fabric of your shorts.

“I need five minutes. Then, I swear to God, I’m going to eat you out like you deserve.”

Giggling, you wrapped your arms around his neck, playing with the strands of hair at the base of his neck. “You don’t have to. This wasn’t a quid pro quo situation. I gave you a blowjob because I wanted to. Nothing more, nothing less.”

“It’s either you give me five minutes so that I can eat you out or ten minutes so I can fuck you into next week. You decide.”

His determination brought a smile to your face until you took in the purple bags under his eyes and how his eyelids kept drooping lower and lower. “How about a nap first, hm? I’ll decide after you get some sleep.”

Namjoon looked like he wanted to protest but you kissed him instead. His argument clearly wasn’t that strong because when you pulled away he was nodding in resignation. You helped him pull up his shorts and squealed when he lifted you up into his arms. Wrapping your legs around his waist, you let him carry you into the bedroom and wrap the both of you up in the comforter. You hadn’t planned on sleeping with him, wanting to get more work done while he slept. But the faint scent of his aftershave and the soft way he caressed your spine could lull an insomniac to sleep. Who were you to refuse?

“Wake me up when you decide,” Namjoon whispered into your hair. You nodded against his chest, and within minutes the two of you slipped into a deep slumber. Happy and content.

©jcwritings Do not repost, translate, or use my stories without my permission.

LINKS:

masterlist

ao3

[scarlettriot]

Take Him Seriously

Pro Hero Kirishima x F!Reader

Summary: When your pro hero bf suggests slipping away at the hero gala you don't really take the big guy seriously... he's about to show you why you should.

Very minor BakuDeku and KamiJiroShinso

Warnings: SMUT BELOW THE CUT 18+ Minors DNI! Exhibitionism, Soft Dom, Lots of Praise, Pet Names (Sweets & Baby & Good Girl), Cursing

Word Count: 1,753

Alcohol, as it did with many people, had a way of making Kirishima's lips looser and thoughts flow more freely. You sat across from your boyfriend at the yearly heroes gala, the both of you dressed in your finest. The party was in full swing, awards and dinner had been served and now the drinking and dancing were the primary events. Although, you and Eijiro opted to take a break. Sinking down into chairs at an empty table. He'd lost his jacket some time ago and you were dying to kick off your heels already.

Somewhere among the smiles and laughter you both shared, he'd leaned back, long legs as thick as tree trunks stretched out wide in front of him and you couldn't help but notice crimson eyes lingering on you as you massaged your aching heels. "If you wanna get off your feet for a while, I have a few ideas of how we can make that happen."

You actually giggled at the comment. "What?"

It wasn't that Eijiro wasn't capable, he was MORE THAN capable! It's just, he wasn't one to usually voice those desires, he usually just... acted on them. And you knew with a room full of friends and colleges he'd never do so in such a public place.

And yet, "Mhm, wrap those luscious thighs around me and I'll keep you off the ground for a while, whatcha say?" He'd leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees even as you slipped the black strap back in place and stood.

"Sure, Eijiro, whatever you say."

He looked up at you, a pout on his lips, "You're not taking me seriously."

You kissed that adorable lower lip of his, "You're right, I'm not. But, when we get home, I'd love to get all tangled up with you-"

Eijiro grabbed your hand and tugged you back down to eye level, "And what if I don't wanna wait that long?" You were still pretty sure he was full of it, "You should take me more seriously, sweets."

He let your hand fall, brushed his lips against your cheek, and let you wander back out to the dance floor but you could feel his eyes on you the entire time.

An hour had passed. You were busy dancing and catching up with friends you didn't see nearly enough and, honestly, you'd nearly forgotten about what Eijiro had hinted at with everything else that had been going on.

You'd been walking back from the restroom when a door open and someone pulled you inside the small coat closet, though, it didn't take much for you to realize who the someone was.

"Eiji! What the-"

He backed you against the door, lips hot against yours while he fumbled with a folding chair, jamming it up under the handle of the door. "I told you, you should take me more seriously." He kissed down the length of your neck, sharp teeth nipping at your skin harder than usual, and, for a second, you were too caught up in the moment to remind him he had to be careful. That there was an event happening that both of you were supposed to be present at!

"Ei, hey, Eijiro," You managed to gain enough sense to pull his head back to look at him, "Babe, we're very much in public. If you want we can just go h-"

That was the second time his lips had cut you off. "Don't care. I want you, right here, right now." He bunched the fabric of your floor-length gown until he could grab at your legs underneath. "Been wanting to tear this dress off you since we left but I still can't do that so I guess I gotta settle for these instead."

It took him no effort at all to rip open the black pantyhose you'd been wearing, quickly followed by the lacy panties under them. The pupils of his eyes were blown wide, tongue darting out to lick his lips while he teased your folds, his other hand guiding yours to the front of his black pants where he was so painfully hard.

"Please, sweets..."

He knew just how to lure you in. Your hands flew to his belt and shoved his pants and boxers down just enough to free him. Eijiro already had two fingers inside you and his thumb circling your clit.

You wanted to move, to sink down on your knees in front of him and give him what he apparently been thinking about all night long but he pinned you to the wall. "I don't have the patience for that." A third finger slipped inside with ease now, one of your legs hooked in the crook of his arm.

"Eiji." You whined rocking your hips, pushing his calloused fingers deeper until he was reaching your favorite spot making you moan and whimper, all his favorite noises he couldn't get enough of. You fought with his tie and then the buttons of his shirt, eager to claw and leave your mark on him.

"Not fair." The man groaned when you ran nails down the planes of his back. "I gotta behave. You've got all this skin on display..."

"Didn't stop you on my neck."

He finally noticed the little bite marks he'd left behind. "Well, if I've already done that much." You moaned at the contact on your neck again, the opposite side this time. And when he applied that pressure, thrust his fingers in hard and deep, you had to bite your cherry red lip to keep yourself from crying his name as you came around his fingers.

"That's a good girl. Keep nice and quiet for me, okay?" You hadn't even fully came down off your high before Eijiro had you up in his arms, the weeping tip of his cock easing into you.

You reached up and found the empty bar of a rack, hanging onto it for dear life as Eijiro pounded into you, your hips meeting every single time with a harsh smack that you were pretty sure was louder than any of the moans you'd been making.

You were still so damn sensitive. He had your toes curling in seconds with the steady pace he set. Watching his cock quickly vanish inside you and then slowly pull out so you could feel each vein he had to offer, every inch he could give you.

"More, more, please, Eiji." He only smirked at your babbled pleas but gave you exactly what you requested. Picking up the pace and fucked you so damn hard you thought you might go through the wall. "Please, fuck!"

With your legs around his torso and your back braced on the wall, that left one of his hands free to clamp over your noisy mouth and the other to toy with your clit. "You want them to know what we're doin' in here? You're gonna let em know who's fuckin' you this good if you keep that up."

It was no use, you couldn't stay silent while he had you like this, you never could. His fingers dipped inside your mouth, "Suck on these so you'll keep quiet." And you did, maybe even a little too well because now it was Eijiro who was moaning like a horny teenager.

"Fuck you're too good at this. Damn, you look amazing, I told you that, right? So fucking gorgeous."

His praise had you sucking his fingers in harder, hugging his cock tighter, teetering right on that edge once again. "Gonna cum again for me? At this fancy party? My cock all the way in you and my fingers down your throat, ah, yes" He chuckled, "So fuckin' good for me, baby. Keep cumming."

Eijiro slowed his thrusts letting you actually ride out your high this time, letting you muffle your screams by biting his shoulder. You whined pitifully when he pulled out of you entirely, very aware he hadn't cum yet. "Get on your knees for me, please, sweets. Can't go shooting inside you when you got nothing to keep it in..."

You both looked at your torn panties on the floor and realized he had a point.

On your knees, Eijiro popped his fat cock right into your mouth with a sigh. "You're gonna have to swallow all of it, alright? Don't want any getting on your dress, I wanna ruin that later."

It didn't take him long to reach his peak, not with the way you swallowed him, hollowed your cheeks out, and tongued his head. He had his messy fingers wrapped up in your hair, fucking your throat how he pleased.

"Love you so damn much, sweets." Eijiro kept his voice low, muttering practically when you felt the first hot rope shoot down your throat, "Taken' me so fuckin' well, always take me so good, take it all, fuck, Y/N."

You might have damn near choked from all the cum he'd just unloaded but at least none of it ended up on your dress or his pants.

He dropped to his knees in front of you, kissing you tenderly and wiping the tears and mascara off of your cheeks. Eijiro helped you straighten out your dress again and fix your hair as best as it could be.

"Sorry I didn't take you seriously earlier." You chuckled, your throat still a little raw.

"I can't really blame you. I didn't even know if I'd have the courage to go through with it but then I saw you on the dance floor and I couldn't wait anymore."

He scooped up your torn pantyhose and undies, pocketing them both before dropping another quick kiss on your lips and opening the door...

"About fucking time!" Katsuki grumbled, pushing pasted you and Eijiro and going into his coat that had been hanging near where Eijiro had just been railing you.

"Seriously, have you two no shame!" Denki tsked and you half hid behind Eijiro.

The redhead tucked you under his arm with a grin. "You're one to talk. As if we didn't all hear you, Kyoka, and Hitoshi goin' at it in the restroom last year at this thing. Least we kept it mostly quiet."

"Just go out to your damn car like everyone else does! It's not that hard!" Bakugo huffed, tucking his phone into his pocket. "Then people can get to their phones or go to the fucking bathroom and not have to wait for someone to fuckin' get off! Speakin' of which, where's my damn nerd!"

[loveaffaire]

Seasons

Pairing: Peter Parker x Reader

Warnings/tags: a bit of angst, fluff, cheating (not by Peter/reader), Pete being a hopeless romantic as always

Word Count: 1.3k, I swear these blurb requests are turning into full one shots because I love Peter being completely whipped by the reader :(

A/N: @spiderholland101 I’ll be honest, I’ve never heard any of those songs so I picked a bunch of lyrics and built a story around it, just 1.3k words of Peter being desperately in love with the reader! Enjoy <3

🤍JOIN MY SLEEPOVER🤍

Summer - Heaven help a fool who falls in love

Peter tried not to stare at you but it was hard when you were sitting two seats away from him in chemistry class. Your skin looked as soft as cotton, lips plump and covered in strawberry chapstick, hair softly shining in the sunlight coming through the window.

His heart would beat a little faster every time you’d laugh, his breath would hitch each time you’d run to him in a crowded room, a smile would find its way on his lips the second his phone would light up with a text message from you.

It’s gonna get messy so don’t fall in love with your best friend, you fool, he’d tell himself.

❥ ‑‑‑‑

Autumn - You've been on my mind girl like a drug

Peter stood still in the middle of the school entrance as he watched you kiss Harry, his hands in your hands, a smile on your lips. It was like getting shot in the head and no, he wasn’t exaggerating, that is exactly how it felt to see your best friend that you are in love with be in love with someone else.

He pulled himself out of his daydream of repeatedly punching Harry in the face and rushed towards you. You pulled away from your boyfriend as soon as you heard footsteps approaching you, a smile settled on your lips when you saw Peter.

“Ready to go?” Peter asked, completely ignoring Harry and you nodded. To his dismay, Harry didn’t let go of your hand without giving you a very steamy kiss right in front of him.

You made small talk on the way to his house and Peter tried to focus on anything other than the kiss you and Harry shared just a few minutes ago. And when you sat on his bed, eyebrows frowned in concentration over chemistry, Peter’s eyebrows were frowned for a whole other reason. Thoughts of you getting too busy in your love life and forgetting him creeped up on his mind and you noticed.

“What’s wrong, Pete?”

“Uh… can’t understand this question”

“You weren’t even looking at the question, you were looking at me” your voice low as you scanned his face, “did I do something?”

Peter’s eyes widened, “no, y-you didn’t do anything, nothing”

“Okay so what is it?”

Peter sighed, biting on his lip because he was nervous and too afraid to say something wrong but he decided to be honest, “just scared you’ll get too busy with Harry and stop hanging out with me, it’s just a thought”

You were taken by surprise by this but soon, the sound of your soft laughter filled the room, “forget about you? We’ve been friends since forever, no boy is ever going to come between us Peter”

Peter’s eyes glimmered at your words, his cheeks turning rosy as he processed your words.

“Anyway, I’m too scared that you’ll forget about me because I saw you hanging out with all those smart science kids earlier today” you teased, your forefinger wiggling in his face as he shook his head, smiling.

How can I forget about you when you’ve been on my mind like a drug, he thought to himself.

❥ ‑‑‑‑

Winter - I wonder what it's like to be loved by you

The cold came and the days turned ugly, one text message to Peter and he was running to your house in the middle of the night.

You saw Peter through your window and opened the door, running into his arms. The impact was so hard that he almost fell back as your hands clutched on his jacket.

“He cheated on me” you cried, voice strained from the previous screaming match with Harry over call.

Peter held you close, walking back inside your house and closing the door behind. As soon as he let go of you, you fell down to your knees and he got down right in front of you as he wiped your tears with his sleeves.

“He doesn’t deserve you, Y/N” he said sincerely. His hands holding the back of your head to make you look at him and he almost kissed you that night. But he didn’t because what if you push him away, one heartbreak was enough for tonight anyway.

As he watched you weep on his shoulder for a boy who clearly didn’t deserve you, he wondered how it felt to be loved by you and if he’ll ever get to be loved by you at all.

❥ ‑‑‑‑

Spring - Wouldn't it be nice to live inside a world that isn't black and white

The colours were a bit brighter than before, the leaves and the flowers blooming again in the soft spring wind. Just like them, you were blooming too. You were the old Y/N again, the same old Y/N who was there before Harry came along and ruined it.

The glow in your eyes was visible, your smile felt more real now and you felt more comfortable in your skin than you did 2 months ago. Peter even helped you pack a box of all the things that your ex-boyfriend left at your place and you later sold those things at a thrift store.

Peter started seeing more of you, he would either be at your place after school or you’d be at his and sometimes, you’d go to the ice cream place near his place on a hot day.

As he watched you munch on your ice cream cone, the vanilla on your lip looked a bit more appetising then it did when it was on the cone and he almost leaned in to have a taste.

“Is there something on my face”

“No”

“Why are you staring then?” you smiled and raised your eyebrows at him.

“Oh, shut up” he rolled his eyes, “come on, let me walk you home before it gets dark”

With you walking by his side and the way your knuckles gently brushed against his made him realise how much brighter his world looked now. How wonderful it was to live in a world which wasn’t black and white anymore and it was all because of you.

❥ ‑‑‑‑

Summer - Honey I love you

The sun was setting, both of you returning from the summer fair and he finally gained the courage to hold your hand on the way back home. The hot weather was making your palm sweaty but Peter couldn’t care less. You were literally here, holding his hand in yours and he didn’t want to let go.

“Peter”

“Yes?”

“Will you say it?”

Peter frowned in confusion, “say what?”

“You know what” you bit your lips, a bit of sadness in your eyes.

“I- I don’t know what you’re talking about” Peter stuttered.

Peter was clueless. For a straight A grade student, he was pretty dumb when it came to love and you.

“So you will just never tell me that you are in love with me?”

Peter halted in his step and that halted you in yours. His hand slightly loosened its hold on yours in horror but you were quick to tighten your hold on his hand, even tugging him closer to yourself so you both were face to face.

“You know?” He finally spoke up, voice in a whisper and mouth agape in shock.

“It’s hard to miss when you’re right there staring at me with your big brown doe eyes” you softly giggled, feeling a bit shy now, “and how you get flustered when I compliment you, how you always have my back and how you always pick me up, it’s obvious that it’s more than just… friendship”

Yes, you knew. You have been waiting for him to say something, anything at all to show you that he loved you but as time passed and still no word from Peter, you finally took matters in your own hands.

Peter was speechless and you have had enough, you sighed and let go of his hand. Peter almost collapsed when you placed your hands on either side of his face and pulled him in.

You filled the gap between you both as you pressed a soft peck to his lips and his eyes fluttered like butterfly wings, savouring in the feeling of the airy kiss. Your lips felt like a light feather, barely there but just enough to make him feel lightheaded for a second.

You pulled away quickly but then pressed your forehead to his and closed your eyes tightly, “honey, I love you”

You said it like a promise, your chest felt a little lighter when the words were finally out and Peter’s heart started racing in his chest again. When he finally processed what had happened, he didn’t waste another moment as he pulled you back in for a kiss.

“I love you” he whispered, words muffled with his lips never leaving yours, “I love you, Y/N”

He repeated the words multiple times, telling you ‘I love you’ for every single time he couldn’t in the past and your eyes watered at the intensity of emotions soaring in your chest.

As he stood there kissing you, his mind went back to last winter and how he wondered how it would feel to be loved by you but now he didn’t have to wonder anymore. He knew how it felt to be loved by you and it felt like heaven.

Anyway, hopeless romantic Peter, my beloved🥰

[nxrthmizu]

kill em’ with kindness

fandom | miraculous ladybug 

genre | lila salt, so much salt 

summary | marinette takes the high road to a better life. 

w.c | 8.1k 

author’s note | had this idea for a few days after i wrote victory tastes bitter, which really blew up on ao3 (thanks for all the support <3). always wondered what it would be like if marinette just. played nice. so here she is, being an absolute badass. 

author’s note.2 | okay so since i did not write this in one sitting, i get that the story probably doesn’t flow as properly as it should. will edit if i ever find the will to do it. 

Marinette was done. They wanted her to be a model student? Fine. They wanted her to stop being mean? Fine. They wanted her to be friends with Lila? Fine.

Luckily for Hawkmoth, no akuma plagued the sky of the previous night, or she would rain hell on him. There was no more tolerance left inside her to spare, and she certainly wouldn’t go out of her way to make some for the manipulative pest problem Paris has had for way too long.

She looked up into the mirror, having exchanged her pigtails for a low ponytail, strands curled to frame her face. Bluebell eyes glistened with a fire that burned brighter than hope— Hope that her ‘friends’ would see sense. Hope that Adrien would be there for her. Hope that the good guy would always get the happy ending. No more being patient, no more being passive, no more putting up with things she didn’t have to.

If Lila Rossi wanted a battle, then fine, a battle she would get. Marinette was lowering her white flag, replacing it with a battle emblem that scorched red, redder than blood and redder than the anger her friends would feel when she was finished. No more peace negotiations. Rossi wanted a fight, Rossi wanted a challenge. Who was Marinette to deny her from what she wanted?

They didn’t know what was coming for them.

The power of makeup was truly one that reigned apex among the world. A few touches of her makeup brush was all it took to erase her dark eyes from existence, give her skin a more radiant glow (She promised that she’d take time to give it a natural glow after she was done being nice), and ease a cherry-pink blush onto her cheeks, making her freckles stand out more in contrast. Marinette Dupain-Cheng meant business, and when she meant business—

“Good morning, Marinette! You look great today!” The head of the student council, a sensible, down-to-Earth blonde by the name of Noelle smiled, speeding up slightly to catch the bluenette on the steps of Francois Dupont. “Love the new look.”

Ah yes. The new look— A royal blue blazer, detailed with golden embroidery of cherry blossoms bursting at the sleeves and the collar, accompanied by a classy-looking silk blouse tapered with a soft, black felt. The pleated black skirt (Made from heavy cloth so that it wouldn’t flap about in the wind) was lined with a beautiful scarlet at all the edges to complete the look. Knee-high black socks trailed all the way into the slight heels that Marinette had added flower adornments on, just so she could tap a little of her own touch on it.

“Thank you,” Responded the bluenette with a smile.

“Woah! Someone looks like they got a good night of rest.” Madeline, the president of the Art Club teased, flocking to the other side of the girl. “That mascara looks sharp enough to kill, girl!”

Sharp enough to kill?

Oh, that wouldn’t be necessary, Marinette mused to herself, sending out thanks to those who had complimented her on her way to class. Nothing sharp was going to be required for the liar’s downfall— No, no. That would just be too messy, and she wouldn’t even think of staining her new outfit. Of course, the ensemble was crafted from her own hands, as stated by the classic MDC that graced the inside of her blazer, the collar of her blouse, and one of the pleats of her skirt. Besides… Lila wasn’t worth getting her hands dirty.

She was going to do things the right way.

The kind way.

“Good morning, everyone.” She greeted, walking into the classroom, garnering their attention with her punctuality. Every set of eyes in the room were attracted to her, like iron fillings to magnets. Some of the gazes were malicious, hateful; Some were doubtful, wary; One was pleading, as if spelling out ‘Please keep taking the high road!’— And then there was Chloe, who was entirely uninterested.

Good, Lila was already present.

“I’d just like to take a minute of your time. Won’t be too long, I promise.” She took a deep breath, ignoring the imploring gaze that dug at her side, courtesy of a blonde that sat in the front row (And no, it wasn’t Chloe she was referring to). “I’d just like to say…”

The class watched with bated breath.

“I’m sorry.”

Alya blinked. So did everyone else in the room. Stunned faces greeted Marinette’s apologetic one, including Lila’s— She didn’t even have to fake her reaction. What on Earth was Marinette trying to pull off? What kind of stunt was this?

“I realise that I’ve not really been the best version of me lately,” She admitted sorrowfully. I haven’t been the best version of me because I was being boycotted and isolated, “It wasn’t fair to put you all through this,” It wasn’t fair that you idiots had to lose all your reputations because of the words of one liar, “And people got hurt as a consequence,” Me. I was the one who got hurt. “I realise that things haven’t been all smooth-sailing in our class lately, so I’d like to apologise to everyone.” I’d like to apologise for not being able to save you from a liar who only sees her own personal gain.

A practiced breath escaped Marinette’s throat as she waited for her cue— The school bell— And set her bag on the teacher’s desk. Good, everything was unfolding right on time. Not quite far away, there was a distinct clack-clack-clack of someone’s heels— An auburn teacher, perhaps? Marinette reached into her backpack and drew out a package she had meticulously wrapped in brown paper and tied in golden ribbon. Sitting passively on top of the package was a small note, decorated in hand-drawn flowers and a hummingbird in the corner.

“Here,” Marinette strode up the steps of the class, stopping right in front of her former seat— Now Lila’s— Internally taking pleasure in the first time she’d seen the Italian’s true expression. “For you, as a token of my apology. I understand if you don’t want to forgive me,” Marinette swallowed painfully, biting her lip, as if she was trying not to cry, “But I just want to make things right.”

Lila blinked.

What the hell was happening?

The silence was broken by a quiet sob, one that did not originate from Marinette. Instead, Mlle. Caline Bustier stood in the doorway of the class, clutching her books and notes for the day’s lesson, wiping away a tear that dropped from her eye. “Oh, Marinette,” The teacher sobbed, “I’m so proud of you.”

“That’s so sweet of you, Marinette.” Rose sniffed, wiping away a few tears of her own that had started dripping during the bluenette’s speech. Juleka patted her girlfriend’s back, trying to calm the emotional blonde before she cried out a tsunami on top of her textbooks, giving Marinette a thumbs up to show her approval.

Alya beamed, seemingly proud of her former best friend, who had (In her opinion) finally started to see sense. “I’m so proud of you, girl!”

(Adrien was too shocked to form any words.)

“Could you… Open it?” Marinette asked hopefully, ignoring the teacher for the favour of the liar who ruined her life. “I… Just want to know if you like it.”

The Italian could do nothing more than grit her teeth when Alya urged her to open it. What kind of trick was Mari-Brat up to? Never mind— She’d just spin it into something stupid and the class would take to it like starved animals. With no other choice, she tore apart the brown paper, discarding the golden ribbon on her desk. The class gasped, oohs and aahs echoing all around as the package unfolded to reveal a pretty, beige-coloured cardigan, hand-stitched with murals of foxes, jumping livelily among berry bushes.

Stitched into the inside of the cardigan in pastel blue were the words ‘Lila Rossi’, done in an exquisite cursive that could no doubt only come from Marinette’s hand.

“I made it for you myself,” Marinette sniffed humbly. “I know you’re a really great model and you’ve probably seen clothes that are much better than this one, but I poured all my feelings into it. I spent every night of last week working on it, and—” She hiccuped rather loudly, instantly covering her mouth with her hand in embarrassment. “I just hope you like it.”

“I…” Lila was at a loss for words. She had an itinerary full of the lies and stories she would spin that day (“Marinette texted me mean things last night,” she would weep tearfully to Alya, sniffing and wiping away tears on Alya’s shirt sleeve, “I just want to be friends but she just keeps… Attacking me!”) but no matter. A smirk danced along the Italian’s lips. “Did you design this yourself?” 

Judging by the smirk that Marinette could practically hear in the other girl’s tone, the liar already had a trick up her sleeve. If Marinette had to guess... 

Something along the lines of she stole this design from [random designer], who just coincidentally had the time to be Lila’s friend. Or maybe the friend of Lila’s grandmother. Whichever didn’t matter much, because Marinette was prepared. 

Marinette crossed the room in mere seconds, returning back to Lila’s seat with a sketchbook that she’d pulled from her bag. “Here!” She chirped, flipping open the page with an exercised movement, not even having to shuffle through the pages to find the correct sketch. “I brought the original sketch, just in case you wanted to see it so you could get a professional to redo it for you.” 

Lila opened and closed her mouth like a gaping fish out of water. Beside her, Alya’s eyes sparkled, envy still glowing in her eyes at the sight of the intricate foxes, coloured in hazel, gold, and orange threads. 

“Thank you, Marinette.” Lila gritted through her teeth, basically seething at the thought of having to thank the girl in front of her, who was smiling like an innocent sunshine child. 

The bluenette then turned her attention to her homeroom teacher. “Sorry for interrupting and taking up class time, Mlle. Bustier.” 

“It’s not a problem, Marinette,” Mlle. Bustier wiped at her eyes, slightly embarrassed now that the whole class was watching her cry at the sight of her ‘model student’ correcting her wrongs. “E— Excuse me.” She mumbled, clearing her throat. “Let’s pick off from where we stopped yesterday. Open your textbooks to page 63, please.” 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

The rest of the day went along smoothly. Marinette sat at the back of class, as usual, sighing in boredom as class was derailed off course, whisked off by another one of Lila’s tall tales. Honestly, they were already weeks off schedule— How the hell were they expected to sit for the final exam, at this rate? 

She huffed quietly to herself, watching Bustier trying (and failing) to act like she wasn’t interested in Lila’s story. The woman— An actual adult— Fell for Lila’s usual tricks like a fool, taking in every single word in drunken thirst. Did Mlle. Bustier really have nothing better to do than get absorbed in a teenage girl’s wild fantasies (in a way it was like that). At that thought, Marinette sat up straighter in her chair, an idea going off like a lightbulb above her brain. 

Was it...? 

After further thought, Marinette settled back into her chair, humming thoughtfully as she drummed her fingers against her table quietly. Yes... Yes, perhaps. 

Perhaps it was possible. 

The rest of the lesson passed in wasted time as the class took a major detour to go on a warped journey through Lila’s lies, and before Bustier knew it, the lunch bell had rung. Students chattered animatedly as everyone got up, Mlle. Bustier’s announcement of ‘please go home and study this chapter by yourselves, everyone’ was pathetically drowned out by the rest of the noise. 

Marinette collected her things quickly, needing her exit from the classroom to go off without a hitch, exactly the way she planned it. “I’ve got to go back to my parents’ bakery for lunch,” She said shyly, shrinking into herself as her classmates turned to look at her. “I... Was thinking of bringing some macarons back later. Before I go, though... Lila, is there anything you’re allergic to?” 

“What?” The girl being asked snapped back as a reply, the words leaving her mouth too fast for her to register. Before she knew it, the whole class was staring at her, mouths agape. “I... I mean.” Clearing her throat, the liar plastered on a sweet smile. “What was it, Marinette?” 

“I wanted to bring some macarons back for everyone.” Shyly, the bluenette repeated her plans. “And... Since I’ve been in class with everyone else here for a while, I know their allergies, but not yours. Is there anything you’re allergic to that could be in baked goods?” 

The Italian cursed under her breath— Mari-Brat really wasn’t letting up. The bluenette had made sure to cover any ground that the Italian could use and turn back against her. “As far as I’m concerned, I’m not allergic to anything.” 

Brightening visibly, Marinette nodded, shooting the Italian a smile. “I know things between us aren’t going to get better immediately, but I promise to do my best in fixing things! See you guys after lunch.” 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

Lila was getting really, really fed up. For the whole morning, she wasn’t able to come up with any reason to blame Marinette. If things kept going at the rate that they were, the class would be fully convinced that the bluenette was a changed woman, and that couldn’t happen. There was, in the end, a downside to having such a gullible bunch of classmates— Sure, they swayed easily to her side, but that meant that they swayed back to Marinette’s just as easily. 

Hissing under her breath, Lila looked up to catch Alya and Nino’s concerned looks. 

No. 

She was Lila Rossi. She was resourceful. She had Gabriel Agreste behind her back. She was powerful. She was not going to let Mari-Brat halt her plans in their tracks ever again. 

“I’m going to go use the bathroom real quick,” She said, excusing herself from the lunch table. Perfect! Now all she had to do was come back in tears, saying that Marinette confronted and mocked her in the bathroom, and the class would be all hers, once again. 

Little did she know that Dupain-Cheng was one teensy step ahead. 

As soon as Lila rounded the corner of the cafeteria, Marinette appeared, having just had a lovely chat with Rose (And Juleka, although it was Rose who did most of the talking). The two were at the front steps of Francois Dupont, having a lovely couple moment that Marinette hated to interrupt— But she needed to have at least a word with them. 

“Rose, Juleka!” Marinette greeted, box of macarons held carefully in her arms, as if it were a box of important jewelry instead of just a box of pastries. “Oh— Rose, is that a new watch? I’ve never seen you wear it before!” 

“Yep, it is!” Rose beamed, delighted that someone (Besides Juleka) had finally noticed it. “Isn’t it pretty?” Indeed it was. The watch in question was a pretty, intricate-looking thing done in rose-gold metal, with a pastel pink leather strap holding it down. The background of the watch face was a white background with a thin film of rose-gold metal, cut to resemble a wall of precious rose vines. 

“It is!” Agreeing wholeheartedly, Marinette offered her classmate a smile. “Oh by the way, what time is it?” 

Rose peered at the watchface, returning the answer with an equally-bright smile. “11.47.” 

“Thank you.” Marinette thanked, continuing her way through the school until she reached the cafeteria. Just before she fell into line of sight, though, she hid behind a wall, peering over the corner until she spotted the table she was looking for. 

Perfect— Lila just walked away. Marinette thanked the gods for all the luck that she was having— Okay, maybe she thanked one god in particular more than the others. Gently, she patted the secret pocket that was sewn into the lining of her blazer— Tikki, who had magic powers, managed to create a miniature ‘room’ inside the secret pocket, with the pocket itself acting as a portal of sorts to the room. After a few seconds, she felt the pocket tap back, managing a small smile of gratitude for her kwami’s constant love and support. 

“Hey, Alya, Nino.” Marinette greeted shyly, box of macarons propped up against her hip. “Where’s... Lila?” She hesitated slightly with her question, acting as if it was a little out-of-place to ask about the Italian girl. 

“She went to the bathroom.” Nino provided, mouth still full of unchewed food. This gifted him with a smack from his girlfriend (“Don’t talk with your mouth full!” she scolded,). 

“Oh, I see.” I definitely see. I know what she’s going to try and pull later— I have to time this properly. Timing is everything. 

Marinette continued to make small talk with the two, whom she had not talked to for a very long time. Much to her surprise, they were very warm and accepting, quite unlike the people who slung slurs and accused her baselessly a few days ago. One morning made all the difference to people who believed anything, she supposed. 

All of a sudden, something in her chest buzzed, as if it were a fire alarm, vibrating in warning— She had to go. “It was nice talking to you guys again.” She admitted, having briefly dipped into a pool of what their friendship used to be like. “But I have to go. I promised Kagami I’d meet her for a few minutes before lunch ended.”

Alya’s eyebrows jumped up comically in surprise. “I didn’t know you still talked to her. I thought you two were… Love rivals.”

“So what if we were love rivals?” Marinette shrugged with a simple smile. “Adrien is… As much as it’s odd to admit, he’s just a boy. Neither of us let him get in between us. He’s just a boy, and it’d be stupid for us to not get along just because we like the same boy. It doesn’t bother Kagami that we used to like the same boy, so why should I let it bother me? Besides,” Marinette tilted her head slightly. “It’d be stupid to give up a great friendship just because of a boy.”

With her last words still hanging in the air, Marinette turned tail and left, walking faster than usual. She had little time left— As she neared the wall that would shield her from the view of the cafeteria, she sped up her footsteps, practically half-sprinting just so she could get out of sight before Lila Rossi returned, looking like someone just killed a puppy in front of her very eyes.

“Oh my god, what’s wrong?” Alya jumped to her feet instantly, reaching out to comfort her best friend, who was moments away from having tears stream down her cheeks.

“I… I thought she’d changed.” Lila sniffled, biting her lip to appear as if she was desperately trying not to cry.

Alya frowned. “Who?”

“Marinette.” Lila stated as if it were obvious, faltering for a moment— Why had Alya bothered to ask? Shouldn’t it come pretty obvious? The liar dismissed the thoughts and continued in her performance. “She threatened me in the bathroom. She… She confronted me and mocked me, saying… Saying that all of you… All of you are idiots for believing that she’s changed. She… She said everything was an act to turn you all against me.”

Nino’s jaw dropped so far that it touched the floor. “Uh… Dudette, are you sure it was Marinette?”

“Yes!” Lila spun to look at him so fast that it was a wonder she didn’t break her neck. “Are… Are you doubting me? Oh my god, it’s working. She’s turning you guys against me. I just want to have friends, I don’t get why she hates me so—”

“You’re… Absolutely sure it was Marinette? You saw her face?” Alya repeated her boyfriend’s words, emphasising each and everyone of them as she looked Lila in the eyes.

“Alya, not you too.” Lila sniffled, tears basically dropping out of her eyes like big, fat droplets of salt water. “It was her— I saw her blazer, it had MDC stitched onto it.”

An uncomfortable silence settled in between the girl and her boyfriend, neither quite knowing what to say. “Oh. I… I see.” Alya said at last, turning back to her food. “Well… Lunch is almost over. Let’s… Let’s get back to class.”

“Marinette just threatened me in the bathroom!” Lila puffed up, clearly upset now. “She mocked me! She called you guys stupid for believing her act!”

“Dudette.” Nino shattered the ice-cold silence at their lunch table, swallowing heavily. “Marinette was with us the whole time you were in the bathroom.”

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

The tension inside the room was so thick that Adrien could cut it with his bare hands. God, what had happened? The day had started off so well— Marinette agreed to be friends with Lila, god bless the girl— But as it turned out, one hurdle folded over only to be towered over by a taller one. 

“Alya—” Lila began tearfully, her pitiful look attracting the sympathy of those who still didn’t know what was going on. 

“You claimed that Marinette threatened you in the bathroom.” Alya interrupted. “While she was with us the whole time in the cafeteria.” 

Faltering, the Italian struggled to find a way to squeeze herself out of the tight spot. “M— Maybe it was someone else.” Reluctantly, she backed out one trap into another one. 

“You said that you were sure! You said that she was wearing a blazer with MDC stitched on it. Marinette was wearing that blazer during lunch!” The reporter shot back, Nino at her side, trying to extinguish the conflicted fire blazing inside Alya’s heart. 

The seeds of doubt had been sewn, and Lila was going to have a tough time weeding them out. “I... I’m sorry!” She burst out into tears, sobbing pitifully in front of the class, most of which were already in attendance. “My lying disease is acting up again. I... I can’t help it. I didn’t mean to hurt anyone!” 

“Uh... Is this a bad time to ask if anyone wants macarons?” Marinette cleared her throat awkwardly, standing at the front of the room. Her royal blue blazer had been shed, and it now hung over her arm, properly folded into half. Earlier, she had asked Rose for the time to make sure that she had a witness in case Lila tried to pull another act— But as it seemed, the Italian was determined to dig her own grave and all the work had been done. 

The students of Mlle. Bustier’s class shared looks. 

“I’ll... I’ll have one.” Mylene cleared her throat, hoping that it would diffuse the situation. 

“Me too.” Kim followed, not missing the way Marinette flinched slightly at his words. Most of the words he had said to her of late had not been nice at all— But he justified that with the fact that she was being a bully to Lila, like Chloe had been to Marinette herself. 

“Great!” Marinette cleared her throat awkwardly, slapping on a strained smile. She passed the box to the front row, where Sabrina and Chloe were, gesturing for them to pass the box along until everyone got their fill. 

Internally, Lila seethed, anger burning like a wildfire that tore down every lush sign of life in her path. The girl had never felt that livid in her entire life— Who did Dupain-Cheng think she was, having a change of heart out of nowhere, pretending to play along with those oh-so-innocent eyes of hers? 

“I... I think I know why my disease acted up again,” Lila sniffled, loud enough to gather attention again. Unsure glances passed around like an object that no one wanted, carried from hand to hand forcefully as no one wanted to hold onto it for too long. “It... It must’ve been because of... Of the cardigan that Marinette made me! You must’ve known that...” The Italian squinted at the cardigan on her desk, “... Cotton triggers my lying disease!” 

The bluenette, still passing around macarons, stopped in her tracks. Inside her mind, Marinette was shaking her head, an amused smile on her cheeks. She had to give Lila credit for that one— She would’ve never anticipated that lie from her nemesis. “That’s terrible!” She sucked in a breath, putting on a dismayed look. “I’m really sorry, Lila! I know it seems like I did this on purpose, but I promise I didn’t! To make it up to you, I’ll make you another one.” 

Is she serious right now? Lila scoffed mentally. How long does she plan to keep this going? No matter— She’ll eventually drain herself out and I won’t even have to meddle in this matter. 

Marinette sniffled, collecting the cardigan pitifully from Lila’s desk. “But to prevent future incidents, Lila, I just want you to know that this isn’t made of cotton... It’s made from the highest-quality of star silk, which is incredibly difficult to produce and is rather expensive. It’s such a pity... I thought that only the best of materials would be deserving to be used to make an apology present... I guess you can’t wear it. I’ll just make another copy of the cardigan with some normal-range silk.” Sighing, the bluenette pretended to mull in sadness for a few seconds before an idea struck her. “Alya! You aren’t allergic to star silk, right?” 

The flow of conversation redirected suddenly, with the reporter snapping to attention and nodding eagerly as she realised what was about to happen. 

“Then... Since I’ve spent so long on this, I don’t want it to go to waste... Why don’t you have it, instead?” Offered Marinette with a sweet, shy smile on her face. 

Lila, still caught up in shock by the reveal of the material— Was then slammed with a wall of flaming anger as Alya squealed, coddling the soft, fluffy material that made the cardigan the exquisite product it was. 

“Marinette’s right,” Adrien chipped in with his own two cents, “Father can rarely get his hands on that material— It costs a fortune, and if hand-made... It takes forever.” 

“Oh, I wove the silk by myself,” Marinette added shyly after Adrien’s contribution, “So I apologise if it’s not up to the quality of industry-level star silk.” 

The reporter gushed, still cooing and running her hands over the gorgeous threads of fabric that made up the cloud-like base of the cardigan, eyes sparkling and the details of the embroidery. 

Marinette smiled, returning to her seat without a fuss. The rest of the class continued to pass the pastries around, the perfect description of ‘ignorance is bliss’ as they pretended as if they couldn’t see the way Lila was shaking in anger. Alya, on the other hand, could see nothing but the garment in her hands, her ‘best friend’ having become invisible for the time being. 

Just as well that it turned out this way, Marinette hummed, twirling her pen in hand, Let that be my departing gift to Rena Rouge. 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

Tomorrow arrived like clockwork, never late and always on time. The crowd of students clamouring by the front of Francois Dupont hushed to silence as they parted for two dark-haired women, both of which were giving off waves of confidence. Simple conversation flowed between the two, who were perfect examples of elegance and grace, their traditional-inspired attire complementing the royal-like aura they had. 

“This dress is really lovely, Marinette,” Kagami smiled gently, admiring the way the fabric flowed around her. The designer had gifted her friend with a maroon-coloured hanfu-inspired dress, complete with hand-sewn embroidery of a golden dragon curled around Kagami’s waist and neck. The dress was completed with a pleated skirt that went all the way to the heels. At first, the fencer was reluctant about the skirt due to the limited maneuverability, but then Marinette revealed that the skirt was very simple to take off as it was just tied around the waist. 

“You look gorgeous in it. It suits you.” Marinette replied, dressed in a similar looking dress. Her hanfu-inspired dress was light pink in colour, with silver threads depicting cranes flying about freely. The pleated skirt was grey in colour, lined with a soft circle of white. 

Kagami blushed slightly. “Thank you.” Briefly, the Japanese girl wondered why on Earth Marinette would go and embroider a dragon onto her dress— Was it purely a coincidence, or...? 

“I’m really glad you decided to transfer here,” Marinette smiled softly, her dark blue bangs framing her face as the rest of it was gathered into a braid that Kagami had helped weave. “It’s going to be nice! I’ll get to see you a lot more often.” 

“We’re in different classes, though.” Frowning, Kagami wondered if she should request a change of homeroom. 

“For now.” The designer winked playfully. “Oh, I have to get to class. See you during lunch?” 

Without waiting for a reply, the blue-eyed girl moved away gracefully, leaving Kagami in confusion. 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

“Good morning,” Marinette greeted gracefully, sweeping into the classroom with her bag over her shoulder and a package in her hands. This package was clearly not as exquisitely-wrapped as the one from the day before, as it was just brown paper and some rough string. 

Alya brightened at the sight of her friend, shrinking away slightly whenever Lila tried to say anything. Sure, the reporter did shake off the initial reaction and respond to whatever her ‘best friend’ said, but the damage had been done. 

“Here’s your new cardigan. It’s made from the same material as your shirt,” Marinette smiled warmly, placing the package on Lila’s table. “It’s a little different from the one I brought yesterday, but I still poured in all my emotions when I made it, so I hope you’ll accept it.” 

Through a gritted smile, the Italian thanked the designer, clenching her fists under the table. That was the second time in two days she had to thank Mari-brat! She swore that if she had to do it again a third time, she was going to slap someone. 

“Oh, Marinette!” Alya called out excitedly, wearing the cardigan that was originally supposed to be Lila’s. “This cardigan is so soft! It’s really amazing to wear! As expected of you, girl!” 

The bluenette stared back at the reporter, wavering for a bit. She had a feeling that Alya wanted something from her... 

“So... I was wondering...” The reporter’s expression turned sheepish, with Marinette’s internal thought-train going ah, there it comes— “Could you remove this and put my name instead?” Alya picked up the corner of the cardigan, pointing to the inside of the garment, where ‘Lila Rossi’ was embroidered on. 

“Ah...” Marinette didn’t even have to fake her nervousness. We already agreed on this, She told herself, No more doing free stuff for people. No more. “Sorry, Alya. My parents need a lot of help in the bakery recently,.. You know how it is! Family always comes first. I’ve already taken out a lot of time to make the cardigan for Lila... And I promised Kagami I’d go out with her this weekend. I’m afraid I don’t have time...” 

There was no missing the way Alya’s face fell instantly. “Couldn’t you put off Kagami for me? Aren’t we best friends?” 

“I thought Lila was your best friend,” Feigning an expression of innocence, Marinette tilted her head slightly. “You shouldn’t go around saying things like that, Alya. You might hurt Lila’s feelings. Besides, a promise is a promise. I wouldn’t want to hurt Kagami’s feelings either. Not to mention— I gave you that cardigan for free. That was two weeks’ worth of hard work. I’m afraid I don’t have the ability to take time out to alter it for free either. If you really want to get it done, you could ask an external tailor to do it for you. I know a few who can do really good embroidery.” 

Alya faltered. “But... We used to be best friends...” 

Snorting mentally, Marinette continued to hold her calm composure. “Like I said, you really shouldn’t say that, Alya. Lila might get upset and we don’t want to hurt her feelings— Right, Adrien?” 

The blonde jumped when the conversation turned to him out of nowhere. All of a sudden, every eye in the classroom was fixed on him. “R— Right, of course.” He said, forcing out each word. 

Satisfied, Marinette nodded, still wearing her ever-so-kind smile. “Exactly.” 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

“Hey, why don’t we all go out and have a picnic outside during lunch?” Alya suggested loudly, jumping up as soon as the lunch bell rang. “Marinette, you can come along too!” Something inside the reporter’s chest was stirring, and with the events of the past few days, Alya felt like she just had to quench that unsettling feeling— And the first step to that was to mend things with Marinette, even though it was the bluenette’s fault for always having been biased to Lila. Alya smiled, proud of herself. She would be the bigger person, she would forgive Marinette, she would integrate the designer back into the class again. 

“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Marinette replied just as quickly, “We don’t know what Lila might be allergic to— She could easily trigger a reaction if we go out, especially since it’s spring.” 

A collective choir of groans rounded the class. 

“Well, I’m going to go back to the hotel to have a first-class meal,” Chloe turned her nose up at her classmates. “... Dupain-Cheng, would you like to come?” 

Shock painted the faces of the whole classroom. Did Chloe just... Ask Marinette something... Politely? 

“I’d love to take that offer, Chloe.” Responded the bluenette, graceful and flawless as ever. “Perhaps tomorrow?” 

“Suit yourself. They’re serving lobster today.” Chloe huffed. “If you’re really that busy, then fine. We can discuss...” The Mayor’s daughter trailed off as she blushed. 

The bluenette giggled knowingly. “You’d like to commission a dress from me, right?” 

“... No.” 

“...” 

“... Maybe.” 

“Alright.” Marinette nodded. “Then maybe it’ll be more convenient if I head over to the hotel after school. I’ll need to take your measurements and we can discuss the prices after.” 

“Whatever.” Chloe waved her away haughtily, a poor effort to cover up her embarrassment. “Sabrina. Let’s go.” 

“Chloe?” Alya guffawed. “Why are you commissioning something from Marinette?” 

Rolling her eyes as if Alya had just asked the stupidest question ever, Chloe answered plainly. “Because she’s one of the up-and-rising designers in the industry? Have you seen what Dupain-Cheng is wearing today? Celebrities are already fighting for spots in her commission list. Even my mother and Gabriel Agreste acknowledge her talent. I’m not dumb, Cesaire. I can recognise a future fashion queen when I see one.” 

Wow, Marinette breathed, looking at the stunned faces around the room, Chloe sure knows how to create an impression. 

“W— Well.” Stuttered the reporter after Chloe made her big exit. “Then... What about going to the bakery for lunch?” 

“Didn’t Lila say she saw a rat in the bakery the last time she visited it?” Marinette pointed out. “The health officer checked the surveillance and the claim was dismissed, of course, because my parents make sure the bakery is as hygienic as possible— But I’m sure Lila is traumatised from that incident. I wouldn’t want to force her to come along to the bakery— And we wouldn’t want to leave her out either, right?” 

This elicited another round of groans. 

Oh, I am enjoying myself way too much, Marinette chuckled mentally. 

“Then— Then...” Alya struggled visibly before she was put out of her misery. 

“It’s fine, Alya.” The designer reassured her. “I wouldn’t want to bother Lila. I’m sure she’s still upset at me. You guys go ahead. I have to go back to the bakery to help my parents out. See you guys after!” 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

Slam! 

Lila fumed, hand still pressed on her locker door. What. The. Hell. Was Mari-brat trying to do? She didn’t miss the way some of her classmates sent her unsatisfactory looks after that pre-lunch stunt that Marinette had pulled. 

And what was the thing about high-and-mighty Chloe commissioning from Marinette? 

Sure, Lila would admit that the cardigan that the designer made was indeed gorgeous, and the fabric was smooth and velvety, a quality unlike any of the clothing that Lila had ever had the privilege to touch— But surely a lowly brat like Dupain-Cheng couldn’t be that popular... Right? 

Dammit, hissed the Italian girl, Maybe I should’ve tried being friends with Mari-brat instead of Cesaire. 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

“Is that... Marinette and Kagami?” Nino gaped, prompting Alya to turn around. It was true— Walking up the steps of Francois Dupont together were the two blue-haired girls, a gentle smile dancing on Kagami’s lips as Marinette talked animatedly, her hands waving around quickly to further elaborate her point. 

Students lounging around the entrance for lunch couldn’t tear their eyes off the two and their matching dresses. Sure, the two girls had walked into school the same way that morning— But now that the afternoon sun was high up in the sky, the golden and silver embroidery was glinting luminously, revealing the true caliber of Marinette’s craft. 

“But... They’re rivals.” Stuttered Alya. She just couldn’t understand... Weren’t they supposed to hate each other? 

“They both like Adrien but they can still get along,” Nino remarked thoughtfully, taking a bite from his sandwich. “So Marinette wasn’t lying about going to meet Kagami yesterday.” 

Alya was silent. 

“Alya? What’s wrong?” Worried, Nino put a hand around his girlfriend’s shoulder, care and concern shining through his honest eyes. 

“If... If Marinette doesn’t get jealous or biased over someone who also likes Adrien...” Alya started quietly, eyes still fixed on the two girls, “Then why was she so against Lila?” 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

“Mlle. Bustier?” The teacher looked up at the voice of her favourite student. Fondly, she smiled. Marinette had finally seen the light and changed her ways, becoming the helpful, generous, kind Marinette that served as a great example for her peers. “May I make an announcement before class ends?” 

“Of course, dear.” Mlle. Bustier gave permission instantly— Marinette was taking up the reins of leadership again! The teacher couldn’t help but do a happy dance internally. 

“I have an announcement to make, so if everyone could listen, I’d be really thankful.” Marinette started, her clear blue eyes meeting those of her classmates. 

She took a deep breath. This is it. I’ve done what I needed to do, now it’s time to finish the job. 

“These past two days... Have been great,” Marinette started wistfully. “I really missed hanging around everyone, just like we did before,” Before you all turned your backs on me and stabbed me when I wasn’t looking, “But I can’t deny— And neither can you— That the things that have happened... They had a really deep impact. And I’ve realised that I can’t just ignore that damage that has been done.” The damage that has been done to me. “So, for the better of everyone— I’ve decided that I... Will transfer classes.” 

It was as if an explosion had gone off in Mlle. Bustier’s classroom. 

“Girl! You can’t do that!” Alya exclaimed in dismay, “We can fix things! Everything has been going well these few days, haven’t they?” 

“Dudette! Honestly, we forgive you.” Nino sighed, “Things just aren’t the same if you’re not here anymore.” 

Adrien didn’t say a word, but the imploring gaze he wore said enough. Please don’t leave me here alone. We promised we’d fight together, right? As long as both of us know... 

Marinette held her hand up to silence them, and the classroom, just as swiftly, became the deadly silence that followed post-disaster. “I understand. But once again, this is for the better,” — Of my mental health, “I’ve talked to Mlle. Mendeliev, and she’s agreed to take me in. I believe that once the changes have taken place, we can all grow more freely without restrictions.” 

In the corner, Mlle. Bustier was tearing up and dabbing at her eyes with her sleeve. 

“Mlle. Bustier,” Marinette turned to her teacher, no malice in her eyes. “I’ll be under Mlle. Mendeliev’s care now.” 

“Marinette...” The teacher sobbed quietly, with Chloe shooting her a look of disgust from the front row. 

“It’s not going to be easy for any of us,” Marinette turned back to the class, “But with time, I’m sure we will all prosper. Especially since you will now be under the care of our one and only Lila Rossi.” 

Adrien looked like someone had just killed a puppy in front of him. 

“Since I am the current class president, I thought I’d pass on the duties onto the most capable person in our class.” Marinette explained warmly, never moving her gaze away from the bewildered Lila. “Lila has the most connections in our class out of all of us, and she’s met so many CEOs and entrepreneurs that she must know a lot about organising and planning. I’m sure you can do it, Lila, but...” She paused. “You can handle it, right?” 

“Y— Yeah. Of course.” Lila stuttered. 

“You promised the class that you’d get BTS to perform for the year-end fundraiser since you were supposed to be in an arranged marriage with their youngest member, Jungkook.” Marinette continued, God I am enjoying myself too much honestly, but I ain’t going to stop now, “And you said you could convince your godfather, Bruce Wayne, to allow the class to go to Wayne Enterprises for this year’s class trip.” 

“She said she could convince Tony Hawk to give me an internship, too!” Alix chipped in. 

“And that she’d bring me along the next time Prince Ali asks for her help for a charity cause!” Rose smiled. 

“She said she’d introduce me to the CEO of Graham Films!” Nino’s eyes shone at the idea. 

The class continued to talk all over one another until Marinette silenced them once more. “Now, now. Let’s not overwhelm Lila. We wouldn’t want her to be overworked or to feel like the expectations are set too high, right?” 

The class agreed, nodding along. 

Marinette made eye contact with Lila, offering her a sweet smile as she did so. Lila, on the other hand, had no taste for such politeness. Instead, she straight-out glared at the former class president. 

This is your problem now. 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

“Marinette! I was hoping to catch you before you went home,” Alya panted, having been able to find the bluenette in the locker room before the designer slipped out of her reach. “You... You’re really serious about leaving?” 

“Yeah.” Smiled Marinette, organising her textbooks into her bag, dusting down her skirt. Noticing Alya’s crestfallen expression, she took the initiative to continue the conversation. “Is there anything else, Alya?” 

“Did you... Did you really hate Lila because she liked Adrien, too?” The reporter asked somewhat timidly. 

Marinette giggled. Normally, when the girl giggled, you could hear a gentle tinkling of wind chimes— But at that moment, Alya heard the freezing winds on Mount Everest instead. “Don’t be silly, Alya. All this over a boy? Besides, I’m over him.” 

“Then...” Alya swallowed difficulty. “Lila... Really was lying this whole time?” 

The gaze that swept across the reporter was stone cold, and it made Alya feel as if she was dangling over a valley of jagged rocks. “What do you think, Alya?” Even so, the bluenette maintained a sweet smile. 

“She was. She was lying the whole time.” Alya suddenly felt as if she had a shortness of air. “This whole time—” 

“Oh, good for you. You finally learned how to see further than one feet in front of you.” Marinette hummed. “I’m proud of you, really. But I’m afraid that I don’t have the time to listen to you slowly come to conclusions after I’ve tried making you see sense for the past half a year. I tried to stop you from ruining your futures, but I guess determination was always one of your good traits.” 

Alya slipped to the floor, having lost the feeling in her legs. She placed one hand against the lockers for support as she shook, weakly looking up at the girl who she was once so proud to call her ‘best friend’. 

“Marinette?” Kagami’s voice rang through the room, indicating that the girl was waiting at the doorway. “You said you were heading to Bourgeois’s hotel after school— Would you like a ride?” 

“That’d be nice, Kagami. A moment.” The designer looked down at her friend and smiled, albeit a little sadly this time— And then she lowered her voice. 

“Determination was always one of your good traits.” 

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

“Marinette,” Adrien perked up at the sight of the bluenette leaving the school doors— Side by side with Kagami, who looked ready to draw a sword and start a duel then and there. 

“This’ll just take a minute, ‘Gami.” Marinette reassured, gently patting her friend’s arm. “Why don’t you get in the car first? It looks like it’s going to rain.” 

Reluctantly, Kagami nodded. “Alright.” Warily, the fencer stepped down the stairs and into the car— But even as she sat in the vehicle, she watched over her fellow bluenette like a hawk, ready to jump out and challenge the blonde if the situation called for it. 

Adrien rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly, not quite knowing what to say. Luckily for him, the designer decided to start the conversation. 

“I just wanted to say thank you.” Marinette smiled softly. A few months ago, when she looked at Adrien, she would see the kind, generous, pure-hearted boy with the finest golden hair and the brightest green eyes. Now? All she saw was a spineless, sheltered, passive child that was afraid of confrontations. 

“For what?” Adrien looked at Marinette, and no longer did he see the cute, pigtail-adorning girl that would blush fiercely everytime he tried to talk to her. Instead, he saw a beautiful, young woman, a rock that had pulled through all the odds to become a vibrant, iridescent diamond. 

Marinette was glowing with confidence, her presence diffusing into the air around her and triggering eyes to look up every time she walked by. There was something about the way she held herself that just made the woman demand awe and respect from those that crossed her path. The old ‘Clumsinette’ had been shed like an old snake skin to reveal a treasure, a better version of the bluenette that had always been waiting for her time to come. 

Bluebell eyes met green ones just as rain began to patter down onto the streets of Paris. Marinette glanced up slightly, not at all bothered as she smoothly retrieved an umbrella from her bag, holding it out for the blonde to take. A flush of deja vu burst through Adrien’s veins and through his skin as he took it with a mumbled thanks, eyes blown wide as Marinette let loose her hair from her ponytail, pulling her blazer over her head to avoid getting her head wet. 

Adrien could only gape as Marinette uttered familiar words back to him, a knowing smile dancing across her lips as she ran off into the rain as if an invisible weight had been lifted off her shoulders. The bluenette looked lighter, brighter, ready to take flight and soar towards the success that her crops of hard work had finally started to bear. Before the blonde model knew it, Marinette Dupain-Cheng had slipped out of his grip, already spreading her multi-coloured wings to land among the stars. 

“Thank you for telling me to take the high road.”  

──────── ⋆⋅❉⋅⋆ ────────

this was both satisfying and tiring to write... 

[eepy-pleepy]

Soul Music

Rating: G

Word Count: 2500

Excerpt:

“Sam.”

Sam looks up at the theatrical whisper to find Jack standing in the library doorway. The toddler glances back down the hall just as Dean’s laugh floats in from the kitchen, wafted with the thick scent of beef and bacon grease.

“Are they doing it right now? Making the sound?”

Jack nods. Sam gets up and follows him, stopping just outside the kitchen, where Jack tugs on Sam’s shirtsleeve. Taking the hint, Sam crouches down, allowing Jack to push his hair behind his ear so he can cup his little hand over it.

For a moment, there’s nothing. Jack crinkles his forehead, then closes his eyes and bows his head.

It’s like a distant siren at first, distorted and directionless, fragmented and wavering. Then it comes in strong and rising and Sam’s breath catches in his chest.

He recognizes the sound Jack was making earlier, the strange tuneless melody of it, but this… there could be no imitating this. It’s bright and soft, beaming warm and full, a resonance that wraps him up and suspends him in weightless tranquility. He’s never — god, he’s never heard anything so objectively, purely happy before in his life.

It cuts off abruptly and Sam feels like he’s been spun around and dropped on his ass. Something touches him and he manages to focus enough to realize it’s Dean’s hand on his shoulder.

“Sam? Sammy? What’s going on? Jack, did you see what happened?”

The blurry shape behind Dean solidifies into Cas. They both look like they’d watched him tumble down a flight of stairs, which, okay, he’d been a little disoriented, but this seems overblown. He pushes Dean’s hand aside and stands up.

“Dude, I’m fine. I’ve actually, huh, never been better.”

“Sam, you’re literally weeping.”

Sam touches his cheeks. They’re very wet.

“Oh.”

“The hell’s going on with you?”

“He wanted to hear your sound,” Jack pipes up, hanging off of Cas’ arm. “He couldn’t hear it on his own.”

“What do you mean? What sound?” Dean says, then catches the cautious understanding on Cas’ face. “What? What does he mean?”

“He was humming it earlier,” Sam says, drying his face on his sleeve. “I’d never heard anything like it before, it wasn’t like a song, but it wasn’t… not like a song? I guess? He said he hears it when you guys are near each other, it means you’re happy, and god, yeah,” he emphasizes with a laugh, “it’s like the feeling of the happiest I’ve ever felt, but I could hear it.”

Dean appears to be stuck just left of understanding.

“Dude, what?”

“Dean, when you… when you are content and relaxed, your soul radiates further from your center. My grace responds in kind," Cas says. "What Jack is picking up is the frequency of those energies touching.”

“… Sorry, you don’t get how totally freaking weird that is?”

“Is it, Dean?” Sam says, finally fully recovered. “Profound bonds and all?”

“Shut up, Weepy.”

“So you can hear it too?” Sam asks Cas.

“Yes. I thought I was the only one who could hear it. I didn’t know Jack could, too.”

Dean throws his arms in the air. “Great. Freaking fantastic. How long have I been unwittingly broadcasting Happy Happy Joy Joy to any supernatural ears within a ten mile radius?”

“It seems to be a very localized event, Dean. Sam had to be right outside the door to hear it.”

A timer goes off in the kitchen. Dean breaks his glare to stomp off and go check it.

“Aww. He’s cute when he’s embarrassed,” Sam says.

“Sammy you shut the hell your mouth.” The oven door closes a touch harder than is necessary.

“Daddy, is he mad at me?” Jack whispers, still hanging off of Cas’ arm. Cas smiles down at him, then bends to haul him up onto one hip.

“Of course not. Sometimes Dean just needs a while to get used to some new information, and his default is grumpy bear.”

“But it’s a pretty sound.”

“Thank you, Jack. I think so, too.”

“Dean should hear it,” Sam says, quietly. Cas busies himself tugging Jack’s shirt straight.

“If he wants to, I’ll be happy to share it.”

“You don’t think he’ll want to.”

“You’re definitely not talking about this anymore,” Dean calls from the kitchen, “you’re all helping me set the table and nobody’s ever bringing this up again.”

Sam and Cas exchange commiserating looks.

--

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