#Kings of the Boardroom

[sandythereadingcafe]

#REVIEW:

MERGER (Kings of the Boardroom 3) by @NanaMalone at The Reading Cafe:

'The fast paced, character driven premise is edgy, intriguing and impassioned'

[sigyns-drafts]

waaa Hades,Buddha, Loki and Poseidon x gn!reader (seperate) who is tired and fell asleep during a meeting and it turned into a cuddle session after they got out of the meeting room.....😭

(I'm sorry I can't be more specific anymore I just want fluff of them :') , also sorry if your request is closed :') but I'm dying for them istg , If you don't write for this many characters you can exclude them! I don't mind! Or even ignore the request, just please stay hydrated and I hope you have a good day <3 )

A/N: Of course anon, I totally get you for wanting more content on your favourite characters, literally the same here!

Apologies it took forever and to everyone requesting! I've been very sick and things kept piling up, but I'm slowly making a return. <3

You described everything I needed to know just right, so please don't be sorry for anything! Thank you for being so caring, I apologise it took me forever. Don't forget to stay hydrated too~♡

Slumber in the Divine Boardroom 💤

➩ You and your divine boyfriend are attending an important meeting, but for whatever reason you find yourself very tired and eventually doze off.

Your boyfriend noticed and what does he do about this? Once everyone is gone turn this into a cuddle session between the two of you of course~

➩ Reader type: Gn!Reader x Hades, Buddha, Loki, Poseidon

⚠: Wholesome fluff, Romantic fluff, a lot of cuddling and nuzzling, teasing and flirting

Hades:

In the dimly lit meeting room located in the underworldly realm of Helheim. 

Hades found himself presiding over yet another gathering together with other formidable figures. 

Y/n, his partner who was only there for moral support like usual, could care less about what they spoke about when the weight of exhaustion and struggle to stay awake hit them like a heavy brick. 

Living with Hades and being his lover, while luxurious, was still a burden to handle at times.

Especially when the god was met with so many constant schedules and tasks he would have to attend and keep up with. 

Much to y/n's dismay, who not only wanted to be there for Hades using their own spare time to follow him around. 

They also wanted to spend time with their beloved king alone, which was a rare occurrence. 

As the talk of afterlife's affairs droned on for hours and the flickering torches cast eerie shadows on the cavernous walls, y/n's sleep deprived state only worsend over time.

Hades, who continued his stern discourse in front of his important guests, took notice in y/n's eyes, closing involuntarily, just across from where he stood. 

He almost felt guilty to have dragged y/n out here when they could have stayed at home resting. But y/n was always so persistent! 

The gentle hum of conversation became a distant murmur as y/n drifted into a peaceful slumber, head resting on the cold, obsidian table.

Eventually the meeting concluded, and the attendees filed out without questioning why Hades's love was asleep, leaving them alone to have their moment of peace. 

Uncharacteristically, a softer expression crossed the lord of the underworld's face as he observed Y/n's serene repose. Hades was pondering if he should wake y/n up but.. Something held him back. 

He gently strokes his hand through y/n's hair, taking it behind their ear before whispering in a low and soft tone to himself, but targeted towards his partner. 

"My precious, already sound asleep when you could have just told me you wanted to stay home today~"

Deciding to not wake up Y/n, Hades carefully summoned a cloak and draped it over them both, creating a makeshift cocoon of warmth to carry his love.

The chilly ambiance of Helheim transformed into a surprisingly cosy haven sometimes, especially when you'd be all cuddled up. 

Hades, normally not the type to do these things, now revealed a gentler side. 

While adjusting Y/n's position to ensure their comfort, the man picks them up with his strong arms. Making sure y/n's head rests nicely and steady on his wide and surprisingly warm shoulder. 

The god allowed himself a rare vulnerability, watching over Y/n with a small grin and a protective gaze.

As the flickering torches cast dancing shadows, the silence enveloped the room, broken only by the tapping of the man's shoes against the stone flooring. 

Hades decided the next best thing to do was to bring y/n back to their chambers and perhaps, even he could take a small rest there to enjoy their solitude a bit more.

Hades gently placed y/n onto their queen sized bed, careful not to disturb their peaceful slumber. Settling beside y/n, he couldn't resist the allure of their presence. 

The shadows seemed to soften as he pulled them into a warm embrace, wrapping his arms around their sleeping lover and relishing in the moment. 

Time passed in the quietude, and as sleep began to claim the god of the dead, y/n stirred. A soft blush tinted their cheeks as they realised the situation.

Nestled in the arms of Hades sent a warm shiver down their spine.

Y/n, not wanting to disturb Hades, who had succumbed to hypnos himself, gently moved closer. A gentle murmur escaped their lips, a tender reminder of the impending responsibilities that awaited the lord of the Underworld. 

With a soft touch, they roused Hades, their fingers tracing over the god's sharp features.

"Hades," y/n whispered, their voice a delicate melody in the quiet chamber. 

"We had another meeting to attend after the first. It's time to wake up darling.."

Hades, stirred from his slumber, opened his eyes to meet the gaze of y/n. 

The vulnerability in that moment was showing itself still, and a rare smile graced the god's lips. 

The weight of his responsibilities momentarily lifted as he thought to himself how lucky he was to wake up to y/n everyday. 

As Hades and y/n shared a lingering gaze, the gravity of their roles in the Underworld momentarily forgotten, Hades pulled y/n close to press his face against y/n's neck and nuzzle them. 

Y/n blushes even more at this and chuckles while combining through the Gods white locks of hair. 

"Oh hades~ you really can be a softie huh?"

With a soft nod, Hades agreed and acknowledged the reminder of his duties, yet he couldn't help but savour the warmth of his partner. 

"I'm only soft for you.. But only you y/n~"

Buddha:

Buddha, who found himself hesitant to attend another divine meeting between the leader gods of their respective pantheons, to discuss important matters regarding humanity, didn't want to go alone. 

So when struck with such a dilemma what does he do? Well he would bring a companion, and decided to bring none other than his most beloved Y/n! 

As they entered the grand hall of the gods, Y/n felt a mix of awe, nervousness and exhaustion. 

After all, they both had travelled far from their home! Also not to mention the fact y/n had been pulled into this extraordinary gathering a little out of nowhere. 

But upon such an offer from their man, how could they possibly refuse such a thing? 

They barely got to travel as much as they would have liked. 

As the meeting unfolded with gods discussing the fate of humanity. Y/n found themselves rather comfortably seated next to Buddha. 

However, soon struggled to stay awake, succumbing to the weariness of the divine environment. 

While the discussions continued, Y/n drifted into a gentle slumber, head resting on Buddha's shoulder.

After the gods concluded their deliberations and departed, Buddha, noticing Y/n's fatigue, chuckled softly to himself. 

He decided to play a light-hearted prank to wake them up. In his hand, he conjured a piece of his favourite chocolate snack, gently placing it near Y/n's nose. 

To his surprise, the sweet aroma stirred Y/n, who slowly opened their eyes.

"Huh, Buddha, what's that delicious smell..?"

Y/n, initially confused, was met with Buddha's playful smile. 

The two shared a moment of laughter, breaking the serious atmosphere that lingered after the gods' departure. 

Buddha, aware of Y/n's love for snacks, much like his own, decided to extend the lightheartedness of their cute moment further. 

"You know, since everyone is gone, we could go find a cosy spot to ourselves and enjoy some more treats~"

Y/n's lit up and they nodded excitedly at Buddha's suggestion! This had been so worth travelling for. 

"Oh yes please! I'd love to explore a little around here and then continue resting somewhere very nice."

While they wandered away from the divine hall, Buddha made sure to show y/n around and explore with them!

While they did they found a serene garden hidden within the world of gods, much to y/n and Buddha's enjoyment for their plan. 

Sitting down under a giant tree, Buddha and Y/n cuddled closely to each other. 

"Oh this is simply divine Buddha, thank you so much for taking me with you~!"

Buddha leaned against the tree while feeding himself and y/n, his partner resting against his chest enjoying the moment and snacks they were fed.

"Me too sweetie, I knew you were the right one to bring with me."

Buddha grins happily, looking down at y/n, his eyes shining with love for them. He leans down and teasingly kisses their cheek. 

"Even though you feel asleep during the meeting, which is my thing!"

The couple burst out laughing at Buddha's joking comment, it was true! 

Y/n blushes slightly, they couldn't help but smile widely at Buddha's words. 

He would usually take the chance to nap during such meetings if it wasn't to his interest. 

With the rustling of leaves, Buddha and Y/n savoured the snacks, bonding over their shared love for their special delights. 

The garden became a space where they could find peace all to themselves.

Loki:

In the grand halls of Asgard, the gods gathered for a crucial meeting. 

Loki, mischievous as ever, had brought y/n along with him. 

He claimed he couldn't leave y/n alone at home, but his true intention was to find amusement in y/n's company during the important discussions.

As the meeting unfolded, the weight of the gods' discussions combined with y/n's exhaustion from the day took its toll. 

Y/n found it hard to keep their eyes open, succumbing to the lull of drowsiness. 

Unbeknownst to them, Loki couldn't resist the opportunity to toy with y/n while maintaining his composure.

Loki leaned in, whispering in y/n's ear, "Sweet y/n, the godly matters bore you to sleep, I see~"

Y/n mumbled a half-conscious response, "No no! Just... tired."

Loki grinned, plotting mischief as the gods continued their discourse. 

However, his plans were thwarted when y/n's eyelids drooped further, and they drifted into a peaceful slumber.

When the meeting concluded, and as the gods departed, Loki turned his attention back to y/n. 

He marvelled at the serene expression on their peaceful face, finding unexpected adoration replacing his mischievous intentions. 

With a gentle touch, he attempted to wake their lover up, calling their name softly or shaking them gently. 

But no response or reaction came! 

Growing impatient yet oddly fond, Loki decided to resort to a different tactic. 

His fingers danced along y/n's sides, tickling them with ease. 

In an instant, y/n jolted awake, eyes wide open in surprise.

"Loki! What in helheim are you doing?!" Y/n exclaimed, totally flushed and caught off guard.

He chuckled, pulling y/n close to himself.

"I couldn't resist, my dear. You looked so peaceful, but my attempts at a normal awakening failed."

Rolling their eyes, y/n sighed to themselves.

"You could've just shaken me gently."

"I tried! Either way this way is much more entertaining hehe~" 

Loki teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he nuzzled himself against y/n's neck.

Despite y/n's initial annoyance, a smile crept onto their face. 

The tension dissipated as Loki wrapped his arms around them even tighter than before, his soft kisses tickling y/n's neck. 

The god of mischief had traded his tricks for a tender moment, and as you cuddled together in the room, leaving only the intimacy of the two of you.

Poseidon:

Poseidon and Y/n found themselves in a grand hall, attending a crucial meeting among the sea gods. 

As discussions flowed, Y/n, overwhelmed by the divine chatter, struggled to keep their eyes open. 

Poseidon noticed and chuckled under his breath, finding it entertaining. Though you could barely tell that he was excited, from his serious and unchanging face. 

Poseidon leans close to y/n and starts whispering, almost mockingly.

"Someone's having a bit of trouble staying awake, aren't they?"

Y/n, in a half-dreamy state, mumbled a half-hearted response, "No! Just a little bored from... godly matters."

As the meeting concluded and the other ocean gods dispersed, leaving Poseidon and Y/n alone in the now empty hall. 

Y/n, succumbing to exhaustion, had dozed off in their seat. Poseidon, finding the situation amusing, decided to take advantage of the moment.

The god finally lets his cold stone of a face change and smirks. 

"Well, well, my dear Y/n, it seems the weight of divine matters was a bit too much for you."

Y/n, still half-asleep, groggily responded, "I'm awake, I'm awake... I just closed my eyes for a moment!"

Poseidon raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his ocean blue eyes. 

"A moment? It felt like an eternity. You missed quite an enlightening discussion on ocean currents.."

Y/n, now fully aware of their surroundings, blushed and tried to defend themselves. 

"I'm sorry, Poseidon. It's not that I wasn't interested. I just... the ambiance was so soothing."

Poseidon grinned, his godly aura radiating strongly. 

"Soothing, you say? Well, maybe you just need a less comfortable place to discuss matters then."

"What? No! Please Poseidon, I truly love the beauty of your halls and wouldn't want to change it for the world."

"Not even to make yourself.. Even more comfortable?"

Y/n blinks, now feeling very confused with the mixed signals they were getting. 

"Pardon me love..?"

With a snap of his fingers, the grand hall transformed into a cosy space filled with pillows and soft blankets. Y/n looked around, bewildered.

"What is the meaning of this, are you not going to lecture me?"

"I thought for a change I could be more easy on you, after all you are my lover. Now, let's catch up on the discussion, shall we?"

As they settled into the comfortable space, Poseidon pulled Y/n into a playful embrace. 

The serious tone of the meeting and his was replaced by laughter and gentle teasing. Something Y/n definitely had to get used to! 

"But seriously darling. Clearly, the weight of godly responsibilities is too much for you to bear."

Y/n rolled their eyes, there he went again insisting.

"Oh, please. You're one to talk, Lord of the Sea. Your ocean currents lecture nearly put me to sleep."

Poseidon chuckled, his selden heard laughter echoing through the transformed hall. 

The god, known for his seriousness, was now wrapped in the warmth of his love's presence, turning an important meeting into an unexpected cuddle session.

But of course, still making sure y/n caught up on what they had missed. 

And so, surrounded by the divine comfort of their impromptu sanctuary, Poseidon continued to playfully lecture Y/n.

Both revel in the joy of each other's company amidst their responsibilities.

[poetryvampire]

Raphael made his way into my dreams again

I can't exactly remember what was happening but some powerful magic guy trapped important people tm in a fancy boardroom and wouldn't let them leave they made some political deals and Raphael thought it was stupid so his plan was to make out really aggressively and make everyone uncomfortable until they forced us to leave. By the end we were fully dry humping in the table before we were banished so what a big brained thinking king

[priderock-inc]

Welcome to Pride Rock Incorporated!

Welcome to Pride Rock Incorporated: a human!AU of The Lion King where the circle of business never ends, and the only thing getting trampled is the competition.

Featuring:

Mufasa, the charismatic CEO, whose roars in board meetings are the only things louder than his impeccable (or, depending on who you ask, atrocious) tie collection.

Scar, the ambitious VP, whose scheming mind is as sharp as his wardrobe, turning every boardroom into a stage for his dramatic power plays.

Sarabi, Mufasa's efficient secretary (and beloved wife), who handles the chaos with grace, effortlessly managing schedules and reigning over the office like the queen she is.

Zazu, the slightly uptight chief advisor, who embodies punctuality and protocol, bringing order one morning report at a time.

Rafiki, the mysterious head of HR, who weaves the threads of office harmony with a touch of enigmatic wisdom.

Timon and Pumbaa, the happy and hapless IT duo, bug-squashers extraordinaire whose motto is "Hakuna Ma-data" until the server crashes yet again.

Simba, Mufasa's curious 7-year-old with a penchant for exploring, who turns the office into his personal playground and treats every memo as a canvas for crayon masterpieces.

And more!

Questions or requests for headcanons or fics are always welcome (:

My main blog is @reine-du-sourire.

Confession time: This entire escapade originated from a series I'm crafting on AO3, in which Scar turns up the charm dial to eleven and flirts incessantly with Zazu while Zazu fails spectacularly in his attempt to remain unflustered.

WIP list that you may feel free to bother me about actually finishing:

-karaoke night

-Simba and Nala coming after school and discovering The Graveyard (janitor's closet)

-Business lunch with HathiCorp

-Subsequent hotel shenaniganry

-Scar's foray into Shenzi's makeup channel

-Team-building exercise at the rock wall

-Simba gets ahold of the PA

-Mufasa institutes "Casual Fridays"

-Business networking dinner at a fancy hotel

-Scar and Zazu find themselves stuck in an elevator during a power outage

-The gang heads to the Triton Royale

-Photo shoot

-Bring Your Parents To Work Day

@onemeh asks for:

-Mufasa and Iago bonding. Considering Iago's last boss was less than ideal, I'd love to see that dynamic

-Scar and Mufasa. Just a bit of bantering/hanging out/not having to deal with family trauma for one second, please and thank you (here's one! Here's another!)

-Shenzi, Banzai and Ed hanging out. Maybe a brief Scar cameo. (With a bit of luck, the house won't even end up on fire at the end.)

-This one taps into Hurt/Comfort a bit but maybe Zazu comforting Scar (or maybe the aftermath of that? That would also be an amazing read), since I believe there was only the Elevator Incident and we've seen it happen a few times the other way around? And they have definitely gotten a bit closer since that.

-Simba in the office again. Being courious about anything and everything, even Zazu's paperwork. Anything with him is bound to be tooth rotting fluff.

-Lastly, Scar using Zazu's greek name more often, now that he knows it trips him up.

[oh-hell-help-me]

Day 3: Obsidian

The day they became friends was... interesting, to say the least.

For 'Official' reasons, Luigi was the Mushroom Kingdom's Diplomatic Representative personally escorted by Peach's Top Knight to "build relations between the two kingdoms and ensure that mutual interests are maintained through the exchange of information and goods".

For those who could see through the diplomatic balderdash, but are still onlookers, Luigi was the only Mushroom Kingdom Resident able (and willing) to cross into what used to be enemy territory, surrounded by strangers who are seen as aggressive and dangerous, and to do so with the intention of 'making nice' with both the temperamental royalty and the locals in the hopes of not facing a longer conflict. I.e. A reason to pity the 'poor man' who drew the short lot.

In reality?

Luigi.... might have more than an ounce of self-interest, going into the Koopa Kingdom.

Sure, he has no idea whatsoever of what exactly his duties would be as a diplomat.

Sure, he has no prior experience of being remarkably sociable, nevermind with KOOPAS.

Sure, he will be utterly lost without Peach's coaching or Mario's silent support.

But...

Maybe... Maybe he could do this. That he could make it easier for his friends -maybe even as he makes new friends.

...At least, it was easier to imagine, when everyone in the Darklands actually bothered to know his name. INCLUDING his two 'Personal Guards' (who both admit that it was more for appearance's sake than anything) named Clawthorne and Dagby.

Every day is filled with being escorted to the Meeting Room in the morning (after breakfast, of course), spending hours hashing out policies and advising Bowser (who is thankfully patient with him), enjoying a 'recess' that he spends exploring the village outside the castle (he was visiting bakeries, restaurants, and the odd recommended craft shop that the Mushroom Kingdom sorely lacked), and then returning to address Peach's written queries before heading back to his rooms where he can finally go to bed.

Lather, rinse, repeat.

And then Bowser decided to change that.

After the thirty-such recess, instead of simply staying within the boardroom, the king surprises everyone in the room (even the Sarasaland Ambassador) as he offers to escort Luigi to the Town Square.

The former(?) plumber said 'yes', of course, how could he not? Not when he's still unsure of where he fits into the new political schema. Not when there are literally over two dozen pairs of eyes watching him with expectations he couldn't guess....

Not when Bowser pinned him with a look that had suddenly, horribly reminded Luigi of That Moment.

It's with a thudding heart that he keeps quiet as they walk down the hall, out of the castle, into the town adjacent to the village, and into a crowded area full of vendors.

He barely holds back a squeak when he realizes how many people were staring, barely keeping up with the king who gently grabs his hand (why...?) and makes a beeline towards a vendor with... rocks?

As they come closer, Luigi realizes that those 'rocks' are in fact gemstones -maybe even common minerals as he spies a vacuating customer taking a lick of what seemed to be a large salt crystal.

And Bowser? He stops right in front of the vendor with familiarity, grinning as he greets them with a gruff 'hello'.

Their exchange is quick, but Luigi couldn't help but wonder what the cloth bundle -given to Bowser, maybe as a pre-made order- contained.

"Come here."

Luigi is suddenly picked up, feeling the ground leave his feet before being strewn across Bowser's forearm like an unruly child.

"W-wait! I can walk just fine- where are we going?!"

By the time he is able to squirm his way higher on the Koopa King's arm (don't think about it-), he realized that they were quickly leaving the square -towards the only 'park' within miles of the castle.

It's... nicer than expected, given that they're still in a volcanic valley, but he is still very much confused as Bowser doesn't answer him -only heading towards a strangely vacant hill with- with?

A picnic blanket?

He's put down on the blanket, barely registering the bundle placed in front of him as he watches the Koopa plop in front of him -arms crossed and face expectant.

Luigi could only look on in his confusion, looking around at the bundle, at Bowser, and back again before giving up on even trying to understand the situation.

".....wha-"

"I need your help."

.........

Apparently, with the new peace coming around for the Koopa Kingdom, the need for metal, and therefore mining, had plummeted to a 'historical low' that meant a surplus of now useless materials and ex-miners (including the vendor).

Now, he's been working on a problem with no immediate answer, especially since trade agreements are still ongoing for the Kingdoms.

"So... why ask me? W-why not the other ambassadors?"

Bowser growls, but snuffs it out quickly when Luigi visibly shrinks at the sound. He sighs.

"Honestly? You're one of the few ambassadors who actually appreciate what I -what we have here." He locks eyes with Luigi. "That, and you seem to know a bit about these."

And that is when he shows the items inside the bundle: raw ores that might be aluminum, bars of iron and copper, a sliver of obsidian, and even a jar of cobalt....

He doesn't empty the whole bag, but the pointed look Luigi is met with said enough already.

"I-I do know what they are- I sometimes, even use them but- but what could I even do to help?"

"I want to know how I can help my kingdom." The answer sends Luigi into silence. "I now have over a fourth of my people unemployed -financial support can only get so far before the economy goes to hell! I have nothing to offer for them, never mind other kingdoms!" The frustration sends Bowser into a continuous growl, but Luigi couldn't bring himself to be scared when that look in his eyes-

"I have no war to fund even a single paycheck!"

That growl became a roar, one that nearly blasts his eardrums, but the way Bowser seemed to deflate just as fast, clenching his fists...

"I can't fail them like this."

He looked vulnerable, for a single moment.

And that? It was the moment Luigi knew he was doomed.

It didn't matter that he felt like he could pass out from anxiety -the expectation that he will be able to answer this HUGE problem.

It didn't matter that he could refuse -and he COULD, because he had refused to be a 'personal messenger to Peach (surprising himself at how profusely bold he was in denying it) and having Bowser respect that.

It didn't matter that he was just as lost as he was.

All that mattered was that, for whatever reason the Koopa King may believe, he trusted him for advice -trusted him to lend help on something that might easily send the Koopa Kingdom into turmoil.

It's overwhelming, but Luigi couldn't help but draw strength from that as well.

"I'll do my best."

[writingsofwesteros]

King's Landing Daily

Highlights from our interview with Westeros's it-girl, and one of the Targaryen heiresses.

We've heard in the news recently that your brothers Aegon and Aemond will be taking up their place at the family company in a few years after university with your half sister Rhaenyra- but what about you? "I'm proud of my brothers for continuing the family legacy at the company- but you won't see me in the boardroom anytime soon," she laughs. "I'm doing my degree right now in art history, and I'm still training to compete in the King's Landing horse show next year, so I'm all booked."

It's no secret you and your siblings have a massive following on social media, and fans are always eager for more information about you. How do you handle it? "It's difficult, when there are people that go that extra mile and sometimes invade our privacy, for sure. When I was younger the mean comments really got to me, but now I just ignore them. But I'm grateful for the ones that are truly kind, and supportive. They come up to me all the time, and they're so sweet- I'm always happy to meet them."

Of course, fans are dying to know- what can you tell us about your love life? Is there another high society wedding coming at us? She laughs, and says, "Definitely no weddings, for sure. I won't give too many details- my mother always says a lady must have her secrets, after all- but I can say that I'm happy, and I'm enjoying life and all it has to offer."

You're incredibly close with your siblings, and unabashedly so- do people's criticisms affect your closeness? "I get that my family's traditions are weird to some people, but when people chose to express their opinions in really disrespectful and hurtful ways, it only brings me closer together with them, rather than drive us apart."

Who's your favourite person to have a night out with? "Hmm- well, I love going out with my best friend Sienna, we've been hanging out since we were kids, and we never get tired of each other. Of course, if she's off at Casterly Rock, or sometimes just because- my siblings are always my go-to. Aegon always makes sure it's wild time, and even though we sometimes have to drag Aemond out with us, the four of us always have a blast- my sister Helaena makes sure I don't go too crazy," She chuckles.

STUNNING AS EVER !!!!!!

you are so sweet and talented!

my sister Helaena makes sure I don't go too crazy," She chuckles. WE LOVE HELLY

[tessa-liam]

Turning The Page

Chapter –1 - Memories

The Royal Romance, Alternate Universe

Series Premise: As Riley Brooks journeys through life as a single parent in New York City, an epiphany strikes as she contemplates the future for herself and her two-year-old son.

Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!MC Riley Brooks

All characters belong to Pixelberry

Category: On-going series, contains angst/fluff/depression

Rating: M🔞Warnings – crude language, not Beta’d - please excuse all errors.

Words: 1951

Turning the Page

Memories - Chapter 1

Chapter Summary: While remembering bittersweet memories of her time in Cordonia, Riley comes to the realization that there are still unanswered questions to pursue from the night of the Coronation Ball.

Music Inspiration: Far Side of the World, Holden Miller, The Way We Were, Lucy Thomas

A/N: My submission for @choicesflashfics, Week #41, Prompt #1, “You make me feel like I’m worth it.”

A/N2: In this alternate universe, after King Constantine orchestrates two individual scandals to humiliate and entrap Riley Brooks and Olivia Nevrakis in shame, Madeleine Amaranth secures her position as the Queen of Cordonia. Riley, as the King’s mistress and Olivia, in self-imposed exile. Tariq is never found.

“...I can’t do this anymore.” Riley answered softly.

Daniel’s heart broke in two as he looked at his dear friend. Her tear-stained cheeks and red-rimmed eyes told him everything that he needed to know.

“It’s okay, Riley,” Daniel said. “It’s not your fault. You were put in a difficult position.”

Her bottom lip trembling; those words spoken, was all it took for her to break down.

…. Remembering the day she danced with her prince at the Coronation Ball, and he said,

‘I hope you never have cause to regret coming here.’

‘Why would you say that?’

‘Well, so much has happened, and...’

As the song winds down, Prince Liam’s hands linger on her waist, his eyes searching hers.

‘I need to talk to you.’

‘Is something wrong?’

***

Wrapping his arm around her shoulders Daniel pulled her close to his chest, breaking the memory.

“I should have known that I was in way over my head. The signs were all there.” Riley spoke between sobs.

“This situation is so fucked up. Falling in love with a man from across the ocean, whose duty to his country dictates his future. Whose life is not his own. His world is so foreign to you. A world unavailable to....”

Riley took a deep breath and met his gaze.

“Stop. Just stop. ...Please.”

“Mommy?” “Dan Dan?” A little voice called out.

Daniel looked over at Riley’s son, walking with his pail towards the sandcastle that they had all made together.

“Hey, buddy, what do you have in your pail?”

“Fo howse,” he pointed to the sandcastle.

“One sec, Ri. I will be right back.” Daniel kissed Riley’s forehead quickly and walked towards the little boy.

Riley closed her eyes, continuing to remember the words Liam spoke to her the night they visited the Statue of Liberty.

‘...but I’ve always known that my role would require me to give up much of what I desire.’

‘You’re the prince. Can't you do what you want, at least some of the time?’

‘If only. My whole life I’ve prepared myself to do what’s best for Cordonia.’

Looking at her son. Looking at Liam’s son.

Riley had an epiphany.

***

The royal council meeting lasted well into the evening. It was almost 9:30 pm when the last council member left the boardroom at the palace. Liam stood up from his chair and started to walk down the long hallway to his study. His plans for the rest of the evening included shooting hoops with Drake and a stop at the beer garden later to wind down. Pouring himself a finger of Scotch he sat down at his desk and reclined his chair. Pulling out his phone, he checked for any missed messages or calls, but nothing of interest was received. The one and only person he wanted to desperately hear from still eluded him.

Three years ago.

The love of his life.

Walked away from him.

Three years of being alone.

Even though he constantly had people around him; Regina, Leo, his guards, nobles, his friends. But never her.

 He would never blame her for walking away. The situation was. Is. So very unfair to her. So undeserved.

And if he was being honest with himself. Very unfair to him. His entire life, he was groomed to serve the Cordonian people and the monarchy. To fulfill ‘his duty’ to Cordonia, without question.

When Riley captured his heart that fateful night in New York, he felt the walls of duty surrounding him start to crumble.

When Riley followed him to the masquerade ball to join the social season, his world shifted in its axis. Thinking that he would never see Riley again, he was given the best surprise. Just to think that she travelled all the way from New York City to be with him.

‘I know we have something special. I want to see what it can be.’

And now, after all the years, his guilt still consumed him.

How he wished he could find out how she was. To make sure she's OK. Hopefully. She moved on with her life. Tears welled in his eyes. He missed Riley. Every day he thought about her and wondered where she was. He missed her voice. He missed her smile.

He remembered everything, and could forget, nothing.

Wanting to relax he stretched his legs and reclined his chair more. His eyes drifted shut and he was almost asleep when he heard a knock on the door.

“Come.” Liam called out in response.

Opening his eyes, he saw Madeleine scowling down at him.

Liam grinned at the thought. It had to be her. No one else would have been able to make such an impression on his guards, to let her in without his permission.

“You know, Madeleine, I think I have seen enough of you for this evening. Please go away and do whatever you do in the evening.”

Liam was well aware that Madeleine kept her own Cordonian arrangement with a dignitary from Morocco. He was in the capital this evening on business, planning to rendezvous with her tonight.

“You know Liam, I am not a child. I understand that you are in a position of authority, and I know that you cannot spend all your time with me.”

“I do need you to come to my chambers and spend the evening with me.” She stood waiting for his answer as Liam felt her gaze burning through him.

At least once a month, Madeleine tried to persuade Liam to sleep with her, but to no avail.

Tonight, was no exception.

“You have not answered my question. Are you coming to my chambers or not?”

“Madeleine, it is a generous offer, but there is no way in hell I want to spend my evening with you. I have plans. Not that it is any of your business. I am spending time with friends tonight.”

“Do you realize, Liam, we have been married for almost four years now and yet no heir. How long will this last? Our people are waiting for news!”

“Isn’t Eduardo waiting for you, Madeleine?” Liam scoffed.

“You will not even touch me. For as long as I see fit, at the very least he pays attention to me. How long will you wait for Riley to magically reappear? She left you Liam. She left you high and dry. She could not handle it. Stop embarrassing yourself, Liam. This country wants an heir. It is our duty to supply one.”

There was a short knock on the door and Drake popped his head through the doorway.

“Li, my apologies for interrupting.” Drake gave Liam a ‘knowing look’.

“Queen Madeleine.”

 Liam stood up from his desk, glowering at Madeleine and turned towards his bar cart. Picking up a bottle of Macallen, “Drake, my man, come have a drink with me. This one is leaving.”

Madeleine ‘glared daggers’ at Liam as she watched him pour whiskey into two lowball glasses, Huffing, she turned around and walked out of his study, not acknowledging Drake. Drake raised an eyebrow, “was I interrupting something important?”

“Hell, no.” Liam shot back his drink and slammed the glass onto his desk.

“Let's play some ball.”

***

“I need to ask a favor of you, Daniel.” Riley called out.

“Anything, Ri, of course,” Daniel replied.

Standing up from the sand he reached down and scooped up Riley's son into his arms. Walking towards her, Riley smiled as she held out her arms.

 “Li Li, come to mommy, sweetheart.”

That is all it took for the giggles to start. William squealed and successfully wrangled out of Daniel’s grasp to get to his mom.

Shaking his head, “this kid will kick my butt one day!”

“What's up, Riley?”

Taking a deep breath, “well, remember that certain table that you asked me to serve the night before I left for Cordonia?” Riley sheepishly looked at her friend.

“How could I forget?” Daniel raised his eyebrow in question.

“Yes, well....”

Riley looked down, not able to meet his eyes.

 “Remember, there were four men. Liam, of course, was one. Tariq, as well, was there.”

“Oh yes and I remember there were two others with them.”

 “Yes, that’s right, Drake and Maxwell. I need you to contact Maxwell.”

“OK, Riley. Sure, that sounds easy enough. I remember that I still owe you a favor for looking after that table that night for me.”

Riley smirked at the look of horror that suddenly fell on his face for saying that aloud.

“Anything Riley.... What is his address?”

“Actually, I need you to call him.”

“OK, call him. ...and what do you want me to say?”

“I need you to ask him to come here. to New York City.”

 “Riley. Are you sure that's a good idea? Won't he tell Liam your whereabouts? Aren't you concerned?”

“Daniel, I am going to ask Maxwell, as my friend. To help me get some answers. But first I need to talk to Maxwell and explain everything to him in person. He needs to come here alone. And I need you to sell that reason to him to come alone, and not to bring anyone with him. Could you do that for me?"

Daniel paused. Looking at his dear friend. “Yes,” he said begrudgingly.

“I sure hope you know what you're doing.”

“So do I, Daniel. So, do I.”

“For you and this little one, I want nothing but happiness from now on. You deserve the world.”

“Thank you, Daniel...for everything.

“You make me feel like I’m worth it.”

***

...if we had the chance to do it all again tell me, would we, could we?

♥️♥️Thank you for reading♥️♥️

 📌@ao719 @txemrn @queenmiarys @sfb123 @twinkleallnight @alj4890 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @harleybeaumont @busywoman @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @imjusthereforliam @lovingchoices14 @kyra75 @tinkie1973 @emkay512 @malblk21 @kristinamae093 @jared2612 @irisk12 @thesvnsins @emersyn-in-cordonia @mainstreetreader @belencha77 @walkerdrakewalker @iluaaa @mysticalfangirl @choicesflashfics @choicesficwriterscreations

[pcrfumed]

KWON TAERI, the black knight of 2016

COO of Kocho Mechanics, the R&D and manufacturing arm of the Kocho Group ( gmt + 8, dm for discord, like this post to plot ) ♞ your evil bisexual elle woods. intro ♞ dossier ♞

i. background

there's rich and there's rich, the difference between money and being part of what makes Korea tick. The Kwon family tree own the [xxx] Group, covering aviation (commercial airlines & cargo), consumer electronics, logistics and manufacturing with a heavy focus on electronics. Think Samsung, LG- that's how big they are.

Taeri, first grandchild and eldest of the eldest son, is born a disappointment. She's the perfect granddaughter, their babygirl princess- it's just that no one really wants a girl. Her greatness was always meant to be in support of her future brother and her father.

When you're 8, 10, 16- learning to live to the crushing weight of her inheritance and come out her own person person was a lot for a teenage girl. Taeri was always a little flighty and unendingly picky but charming and perfect in all the ways that matter. Good at painting and piano, smart enough to talk to adults and listening well. Girlie grew up on the politics of her family.

Taeri joined the king's club because she wanted it, the only Kwon in direct family line lucky enough to be born in the right timespan and while everyone knows the empire would go to her male kin, Taeri was connections to her family. frankly- her family didn't really want her in but in a moment of spite and sheer "i want to so idc", girlie secured her invite

When Taeri got inducted, everyone thought they'd be getting another mean girl heiress hunting for connections and a good time. Wrong !!!! Taeri already knows she's won the prettiest & coolest girl in the world competition and it's time to move up in the world !!!!!!!!!!!! she wants more baby, she always wants more. she just didn't realize it until doors for taeri, and not the kwon granddaughter, started opening.

SNU was basically her evil Elle Woods at Harvard law glow up. 9 dead, 4283 injured. Her family is not aware of all the evil plots in her brain and that her goals for the king's club are much more personal now, but it was a somewhat open secret amongst her fellow chessmasters and a few alumni, including the chairman of the Kocho group, a major chaebol group.

Taeri graduates while playing to win. She still has some of the airs she's always had, but graduation meant an end to playing around during work hours. she stayed long enough in her family to learn the ropes, forge her own connections and snipe some of the best people before moving to the Kocho group in a surprise upset. Starting from head of their sales department now to COO of their manufacturing arm while working closely with the chairman- all eyes are on the black sheep of the Kwon family. there's still plenty of time for her to fall upon her sword.

Her shares and future in her family business are less than stellar. sorry to everyone who wanted to marry into chaebol royalty! She might still have some buildings to her name and a second house somewhere, but her future there is colder than ever. Which, really, is motivation to succeed. she has certain lifestyle requirements

Taeri has become a lot less fun after graduation, even if her attitude hasn't changed much. But the vision of a pretty socialite has long since been wiped away.

ii. personality

kwon taeri is: a flash of whimsy between boardroom suits, the vulture watching over the carrion, the mouth that bites, the hand that feeds

card carrying evil bisexual even if she keeps it on the down low. not interested in flings. interested in psychosexual freakiness. honestly not interested in marriage unless you want to support her going for the crown, competition need not apply.

for a girl born with gold in her mouth, she's too used to the rich and the wannabes- she wants people who stand out, with ambitions like her.

the worst thing you can do is bore her.

sees the world as game that she wants to win. too used to being brushed over and forgotten- taeri refuses to lose and refuses to give up control. god help us all.

girl with a knife- give her something sharp and she just can't stop herself from trying to stick it in someone.

has a special desire to fuck over old men with an open path to success, a spiteful desire to ruin families. her own family left her with a kind of emptiness, and the only thing she knows how to do is break whatever reminds her of that. sorry, it's only personal.

your problematic queen

iii. connections

this is just some initial ideas but i looove brainstorming plots <3

by 2016, Taeri's heart was set on breaking from her family. And she's also a bitch who loves games so she made sure no Kwon initiate in 2016 would get in because lolz! but everyone wants to be in the kwon's good graces too- maybe your 2016 chessmaster decided to go against her (and of course, lost)

if asked, Taeri's favorite kind of person is smart enough to be of use, sweet enough to be loved & trusted, dumb enough to like her. fill this spot for her <3 hell, fill this spot for her in 2016 then grow out of it

on the flipside- growing up, love suited taeri poorly. bisexual elle woods who's never known how to love properly, who's relationship with queerness is even more ill-defined. sapphic love interests, obsessions, people who only hurt those they love- hi <3

kocho industries is a major force in the world of electronics & manufacturing especially for industrial use. ofc, consumer goods is where the bazillions come from and expanding there is on the future docket, but right now, taeri's focusing on scaling up and turning kocho into a powerhouse in industrial manufacturing with the best deals and the best tech. unlike her family (and many chaebol groups as well) she's a little more open to moving upwards with non family members and brings about a shakeup to the current order of things. work with her <3 be her evil corporate bestie and help her overtake her family

2016 - taeri has a small circle of close friends, a true inner circle who may see taeri for what she really is (kind of a bitch, materialistic, loyal) and who have something real with her. how this fares into 2024 after her antipathy towards hyungseo's death and her quiet rebellion against one of the biggest chaebol groups- who knows.

taeri loves her little lambs but admittedly, she loves competition she can respect. there's a part of her that wants to devour and be devoured, to fill her with something that feels real

[moon-child-cypher]

Chapter 1 : ON

 BTS OT7 , OT7xYN , NamjoonxYN, SeokjinxYN, YoongixYN, HoseokxYN, TaehyungxYN, JiminxYN, JungkookxYN

TW: Mental illness, psychosis, depression, body dysmorphia, past bullying, casual sex, loss of relationship, violence, talk of weapons, blood

   As the leader of Bangtan , Namjoon felt the weight of his responsibilities to bangtan and he had felt it worse since you left. In a way, he was happy he had to focus on the others' well being . Somedays when his responsibilities felt heavier than others, he could lose himself in Bangtan and, for a moment, it would feel like things were how they were before everything fell apart. One thing he couldnt deny was that heartbreak had been an amazing motivator. Throwing themselves into their work Bangtan had gone from a small group of friends who knew how to get things done, to a feared syndicate with complex connections and a massive income.  Namjoon could sometimes convince himself that it hadnt been for you, it hadnt been so if he ever saw you again you would be so impressed that you couldnt say no to him. Couldnt say no to his brothers.

 Nothing prepared him for the day you showed up in their lives again. The usually composed Namjoon was a mess with you in the same room. He had walked into the boardroom for a financial meeting, one that would help secure their place as the underground kings of Seoul, and found you right away. You were sitting amongst the attendees, as though you being there was of no major circumstance. Sitting attentively as though you could just show up and be another name in a long list of faces . Feeling his stare you , nervously met his eyes, and he felt like his heart stopped beating. It was you, really you. Yes, in five years something about you had changed , but in that moment he would have done anything for you and you knew it. He had almost forgotten the rest of Bangtans appearance until he heard them shuffling in behind him and he began to panic. He swore he fell in love with you more when your eyes softened in understanding at his sudden panic. Of course he still seemed cool and collected on the surface, but you knew better.

Yoongi had spent his life hiding his feelings, except for with you. Always cool and collected, thats what got him this far in life and Bangtan. When others were motivated by emotion, and ethics, Yoongi was cold facts and logic. You had seen through thst though. You always told him that when you looked in his eyes , you saw a deep pool of emotions that you wanted to drown in. He had showed you affection to the best of his abilities and you had seen them for what they were and on a rare occasion held him while he wept. Not wanting to talk about it, not wanting an explanation, just offering absolute understanding. He went numb after you left, it wasnt safe to feel those emotions, the world would burn and he had been having enough trouble keeping Hoseok under control. He never gave up hope that you would return , though. Worked relentlessly to build an empire with Bangtan hoping that one day when youd come back you would join them again. Everything he did was for you and Bangtan knew that, they didnt stop him because they felt the same. He wondered sometimes, if their loss of you, was the only thing they had in common anymore. Not that it mattered, since it had been working well for  them.    Today he was grumpy. He had been up all night going over blueprint after blueprint and was still expected to attend the meeting. Pretty useless, as all the paperwork would end up on him and Namjoons desk to go over , this meeting could have definitely been an email. He kept his eyes trained on the back on Namjoons head and followed him into the room where he would be bored to death for whatever duration it took, but Namjoon seemed eager to leave as well and he took that as a good sign. Hoseoks sudden tense on walking the room sent Yoongi immediately on alert. He has a moment to wonder to himself if Hoseok or their business  partners would be a bigger threat before he locked eyes with you , and before he could fully register that it was you he felt like he was drowning.

 Hoseok had in his own way taken your absence the hardest. Growing up his life had been spent in one mental hospital or another. His craving for violence , his paranoia were enough for his parents to abandon him as a ward of the state at 15, in the end he had aged out of these homes and met Namjoon, who saw a use in his unique set of skills and outlook on the world. Beginning only as Namjoons body guard , he now was in control of a small army with a special gift for violence who knew how to get things done and Hoseok had found happiness, but he found contentment when you walked into their lives. It was almost as though your presence had made all the voices go silent.  As if all the voices were in absolute awe of your presence and didnt dare speak unless spoken too. You were the first one to make him feel human in his whole life. You had said that he had an adaptation to his reality, not a malfunction , and that he was still worthy of love and respect like any human. Up until you the only respect he had experienced was at the cost of his bloodlust. His fellow Bangtan members loved him, of course, but they still saw him for what the rest of the world saw and always had a trace of fear behind their eyes. Not you though.

  When you had left he had seen to it that the world would burn. Every person who betrayed Bangtan, every time someone crossed his path, was paying for your absence. Part of him was punishing the world because he couldnt punish you, not that he would any ways. He was unstoppable because what could hurt more than you abandoning him, right? Nothing scarier than a man who isnt afraid of dying and more often than not Hoseok had hoped he would make one wrong move, that someone would finally stop his reign of terror, because the voices would stop . They talked about you a lot, they also talked about his Bangtan family. The voices told him that they could see right through him, and it made sense because they never made a move to stop him. He did sometimes wonder what you would think of him now. He knew youd be scared of him , of who he had become, but he would silently remind himself that he did it for YOU.

  The voices had been particularly annoying today. He was itching to get on the field, do what he did best, but instead he had to attend a board meeting with Namjoon as his protection and a founding member of Bangtan. He just had to make it through this meeting and he would be left to his own devices, he expected a particularly trigger happy evening for him and his army. He walked behind Namjoon taking in every detail, every possible security threat. There was a heavier defense sytem in this building , he noted, if things went wrong Hoseok would have the chance to take out his frustrations in order for them to  escape. Namjoon stopped just inside the doorway and froze, sending Hoseok into attack moden for a moment. Was Namjoon hit? Was there danger in the room? After taking a quick glance at Namjoon seing no obvious injuries, he scanned the room. That's when he locked eyes with someone and the voices stopped.

 To anyone who knew anything about Bangtan, Jin was the glue that held them together. In a group of unloved boys who came together to build this life together, Jin offered a quiet understanding and a warm  home.  You had said that he served as such a master manipulator for Bangtan because he had an unbiased, deep understanding of people,even strangers. You can't use peoples thoughts and emotions against them unless you truly understand what motivates them, you had said. He believed you because that is what you had always offered him just that. From your small nods and warm smile after a tough mission, or taking the role as caretaker of Bangtan when he felt his exhaustion deep in his bones. He hadnt connected with anyone on any level since you left. Why bother? He was a master of being ingenuine, even attempting to open up to someone he wouldnt know what to believe what he was really feeling. But you, you understood with just a look and that's what he needed. Surprisingly his lack of his own emotion helped him even further understand others emotions. He was a blank slate and he was a projection of those around him.

That was why it was important he attended this meeting. Namjoon needed to know if they had any ulterior motives, if they were trying to trick them into losing money. What Namjoon and the others had never said is this one just one more step to giving you the life you deserved when you returned. He felt the shift as soon as they entered the room and automatically began to assess the situation and then he was looking at you as he was hit with guilt, surprise, hurt and most of all, love.

Taehyung had been dfferent his whole life. From the time he was old enough to play with the kids at the park they bullied him, knowing he wasnt quite like them so he must be weak, right? Wrong. He grew up to be devilishly handsome and with that his odd tendencies were labelled cute quirks. His past still shaped him , though. Seeing the cruelty of people, even at such a young age he recognized it was human nature. Taehyung felt emotions deeply, maybe too deeply, but it served him well as the secret keeper of Bangtan. See , anyone and everyone loves to talk, especially about themselves. All he had to do was flash a smile and lend an ear and a few careful questions and people were ready to tell him everything. It all went straight to Namjoon of course , and he mosty stuck to the shadows, only making public appearances with Bangtan when necessary. His charm never worked on you. You had told him he was beautiful , and that there was something about him that made it easy to open up to him. But you were naturally a genuine person, especially with him. 

When others blew off his personality, the way he dressed, and his words, you looked at him like he was a piece of art. You once told him a day with him did more for the heart and mind than any art ever could. He had scoffed at that , because, how could any piece of art, any piece of music, any natural wonder measure up to you? Their love had been like something out of an old movie. Slow dancing to old jazz records in his room, reading to eachother poems that only conveyed a fraction of the love that they had felt for eachother. 

When you had left, Taehyung had disappeared back into his shell. There's only so many side eyes and remarks one can make before it wears away at oneself. He still found himself saving songs from old vinyls and poems ripped from books for you to enjoy when you came back. Outwardly, to anyone who didnt know better, Taehyung had become cold. While in the past he used warmth, and flirting to get people to talk, he now opted for intimidation and cruelty. He had become the bully and you would have hated that for him. 

He hadnt wanted to go to this meeting, even before he saw Bangtan eye his green suit up and down. He didnt need them to be picking him apart, that was his job, and his patience was low today. Walking along with his brothers he kept himself amused by humming a jazz song he had discovered on a vinyl he had found in the back of some vintage store or another. It was soft and bright, like you, but inside he felt deep and sorrowful . The sudden stop off Hoseok had him bumping into him and jumping back. He could feel Hoseok itching for combat and it was putting Taehyung at unease , he didnt want to be the target of Hoseoks rage today. Taehyng quickly looked around to see what would cause Hoseok to be so careless, who was going to be the subject of his wrath and then he saw you. Like the greatest treasure at any museum, like the grandest orchestra , there you were.

 If lust had a physical embodiment, it would be Jimin. He  just oozes sex to men and women alike , and knew how to use it to get what he wanted. Jimin always had a taste for the finer things in life, always wanting more. When he had met Namjoon he had already been living a gluttoous lifestyle, but Namjoon made him realize he had a talent that could be utilized for something bigger, greater. Whole empires have been brought down because of sex, and Jimin wanted to build an empire on it. While he had grown soft and affectionate towards his members over the years, others would describe his gaze as hawk-like, like a predator zooming in on ikts prey. YN had never seen that, she saw right through him. To late nights hiding under the covers, memorizing every curve and imperfection of eachothers bodies you were the first actually intimacy he had ever experience. He thought arousal had equated intimacy until you, how a single peck on the forehead could leave him powerless to you.

When you left Jimin had tried to convince himself that his long list of high profile one night stands were for work, but he eventually had to face the music and realize it was intimacy he was craving. Taehyung, as odd as he was, seemed to understand this, and would quietly hold his hand or grab his thigh affectionately under the table when he could. This didnt help, he appreciated it, but it just made him feel like he was more alone. A steady sex life had proven to be very lucrative to Bangtan, but he felt so alone.

Jimin had left a lover in his bed that morning to join the boys at a meeting. Jimin felt the need to complain, to hide his relief that he wouldnt have to see the stranger off, someone else could take care of that. As they walked in the building, immediately a group of secretaries were whispering behind their hands about him and he flashe them his most seductive style. Just like that he had them, he would have to remember their faces for when they were done with the meeting. He couldnt resist himself and flashed a smile at an especially flustered man in a three piece suit. Jimin had him right where he wanted him and it wasn too easy. Jimin strutted into the room thinking about all the possibilities with these coworkers but his steps failed him and his cockiness left him as he saw you. Then, with one quick moment of eyecontact, he knew you couldnt leave because you were all he ever needed.

Jungkook hated his smile, his bunny teeth making him look even younger than he already was, and as the youngest he didnt need to be reminded of that. You had loved his smile , which worked out well because you were the major source of it. Jungkook knew his weapons, he had turned his body into his biggest weapon with an unhealthy excercise routine but the most deadly weapon in his world was your laugh. Jungkook  never had a great body image, you later suggested body dysmorphia, and you were the only one he believed ever liked his body. He couldnt look in the mirror and see what everyone else saw. That's why when you left he became obsessed with perfecting himself as a weapon. The burn and exhaustion gives him something to focus on instead of your laughter. At first the memory of your laugh was the only comfort he found, then in his mind it became mocking, telling him he was worthless. That was bad but not as bad as when he forgot what it sounded like all together. You never treated him as the baby of the group but as an equal and he almost believed it. You two were a sanctuary from the reality of thet lifestyle, laughing until your stomachs hurt and sharing memories of his hyungs and sharing the secret knowledge that all of them were secretly the  most amazing generous people you  knew. But now he was just the baby again, talked down on,not respected , no matter how much he worked out and built his strength.

This morning he had a moment in front of the mirror and thought of what you would think of him now, what would you think of the empty shells Bangtan had become? None of it mattered without you here, and why do they keep pretending that it did? Jungkook was the last one to enter the room. This was related to a shipment of weapons and that was his line for bangtan, but one of his hyungs could have taken care of it , he felt particularly ugly today but straightened his back, and walked in. Immediately he noticed his hyungs freeze and was alarmed by such an intense set of emotions that these usually well composed men were feeling and so he followed their gaze and there you were. He felt himself deflate, and relaxed his stance when your eyes met and couldnt help but smile the first genuine, full bunny teeth smile that he had in years.

 You knew logically that they were going to be there, of course they had to be there, but nothing had prepared you for this. They had betrayed you, you shouldnt have any more emotional connection to them, you owed them nothing, but then why was this so hard? You had left Bangtan and started a new profession in a new place the honest way, but years of living with bangtan you could no longer afford your lifestyle on an honest job salary so that's how you ended up in weapons deals. You purposely didnt keep track of the boys, as they hurt too much to think about. Youre only clue of just how big and successful they had gotten recently when you had been informed about your purpose foe this meeting . Your boss had taken your hesitance as concern about getting involved with Bagtan and reassured you that your name would not be connected to them on paper but he had no idea how connected you already were to them. They would know now from the way the seven boys honed on you and were now staring at you. You had tried to blend in the crowd of seats but that had been unsuccessful. The worst part of it all is as soon as she saw them she felt the pain of being in love with these men all over again.

[thereadingcafe]

[sandythereadingcafe]

REVIEW TOUR

ACQUISITION (Kings of the Boardroom 2) by Nana Malone at The Reading Cafe:

'The character driven premise is dramatic, gritty and twisted'

[incorrectsmashbrosquotes]

Ganondorf's Mario Party Birthday Plan

*In the League of Villains Boardroom and everyone, except K Rool, is there*

Ganondorf: Ah The birthday. The one day of the year that is solely about us. There’s no person alive with a moral conscience who would go out of their way to ruin another’s birthday, right?

*A photo of K Rool Appears*

Ganondorf: This here is the tryhar- *Stops himself* I mean the King Of Skill, and he’s apparently made it his lifelong mission to destroy each of us in Mario Party on our birthdays in order to achieve first, and now I’m the next in line

Ganondorf: But no. I’m not giving up without a fight! If I can’t beat the King of Skill in the battle of talent, I’ll bring out old reliable! A tool that even the most powerful opponents could not possibly hope to stand up against… *Takes out credit card* MY CREDIT CARD!!

Ganondorf: For this game, I messaged King Dedede over discord and made him an offer he could not refuse. HE will take the role of my personal secret assassin and that if he is able to make K Rool come in last, I will gift him a bounty of 200,000 All-Hylian Rupees!!

Ganondorf: However if K Rool comes in first or third, or if his cover is blown and the other smashers find out what my secret plan is, then Dedede gets absolutely NOTHING!!

[chaosandcrimson]

no way is that CONSTANCE 'CONNIE' BISHOP.. they’re a 42-year-old HUMAN notoriously known for being CONTROLLING & BITTER but there are some people who have seen them being GRACEFUL  &  MOTHERLY.  if you ask me, they remind me a lot of silver tongued arguments, the crack of a whip, and dreams that have long since died, but that could just be because they’re considered the BARONESS around town. just keep an eye on them  &  see if their true colors shine through..

Cherry lips, crystal skies I could show you incredible things Stolen kisses, pretty lies You're the King, baby, I'm your Queen

OVERVIEW

Name: Constance Kyler Bishop

Nickname(s): Connie

DOB: January 1, 2082

Age: 42

FC: Gemma Chan

Height: 5'9"

Pronouns: She/Her

Sexuality: Pansexual

Occupation: Capo in the Skyport Mafia / Owner of Bishop and Associates / Lawyer at Bishop and Associates / Dominatrix

Relationship Status: Single (Closed)

[+] confident, graceful, motherly [–] controlling, mercenary, bitter

BIOGRAPHY

tw: death

Connie was orphaned before her first birthday and was taken in by a capo in the Skyport Mafia who raised her as his own. She does not remember her parents, nor does she know what happened to them; but it has occurred to her more than once that they were likely either members of the mafia or victims of the mafia.

It quickly became clear that she was bright, eloquent, and good at arguing. As a result, the mob decided to invest in her education. It was part of their strategy to gain power in the upper and middle districts through legitimate businesses.

When she was a freshman in college, she met and fell in love with a man who promised to take her away from the mafia for good. It turned out to be a promise that he couldn't keep. Whether he knew that all along and lied to her, or genuinely tried to save her and couldn't, remains a mystery. The end result was the same—she tried to escape and realised that she couldn't. She never tried again.

At that point, she gave up any dream that she had of living a life outside of the mob and dedicated herself fully to her role in the mafia. Only two years later, she took in Cassie Bismarck—a young orphan whom she raised into an efficient and extremely lethal criminal, much like her adopted father had done with her.

After qualifying as a lawyer, she spent a few years working at a prestigious firm before opening her own practice. By day, she was a successful attorney to the rich and powerful. By night, she was a ruthless criminal and freelance dominatrix.

Her decision to work as a dominatrix can be best summarised by the following: "When you dominate and manipulate men in every boardroom and courtroom that you're in, this just seemed like the natural progression."

She was 34 years old when her father retired from the mob. He nominated her as his successor, after which the bosses agreed to give her his position as a capo—finally inheriting the job that she had been groomed to do since infancy.

A year later, she found Lyosha Torres at the university, and when he confided in her about his situation with his mother, she was quick to offer to take care of it for him. He accepted, and she welcomed him into her and Cassie's family.

She does genuinely care about her children and will go to the ends of the earth for them. She gives them a lot of autonomy, unless what they want goes against what she thinks is best for them. That's when she becomes very controlling.

MISC

She lives in a penthouse in the upper district.

She has three dogs: two Dobermans called Phobos and Deimos who act as her guard dogs, and a pug named Ernest whom she affectionately calls Ernie.

[priderock-inc]

It’s after yet another ridiculous and frustrating boardroom conference that Zazu finally has his office- and a rare few minutes- to himself.

Definitely a welcome respite, having a solitary workspace. He’s able to concentrate on his report without people barging in with stupid questions or inane requests or complaints about the broken coffee machine. Honestly, what Benshi had been thinking by trying to put a container of yogurt into the portafilter Zazu doesn’t know. 

Not that Zazu particularly wants to be doing this report anyway, but at least it’s quiet. 

He barely notices the door opening, barely notices the hands settling on his shoulders and the gentle pressure encircling them, kneading at the stiff muscles; he barely notices himself slackening unconsciously into the touches until the intruder leans down to whisper in his ear-

"This report is a masterpiece of bureaucratic absurdity. I've seen simpler instructions for assembling furniture."

"Scar!” It’s all Zazu can do to keep from catapulting out of his seat. “What on earth do you think you’re doing?!" 

"Merely contributing to the office well-being program,” Scar purrs. Zazu can smell his cologne (too late, why oh why hadn’t he noticed it earlier?) and a faint scent of something else that he can’t name. "Don't be so uptight, Zazu. It's just a friendly gesture."

Friendly, Zazu thinks, his cheeks warming. “This is highly unprofessional! We’re in the office!”

“Well, consider it a perk of working with me. Carry on, pretend I’m not here.”

“That’d be the day,” Zazu mutters.

It earns him a chuckle. “Brutal, Zazu. Now, what’s this report you’re working on? What’s got you so tense?”

The sensation of Scar's hands on his shoulders is making it extremely difficult to concentrate. "It's a summary of the meeting with HathiCorp, cross-referenced with a quarterly analysis of our expenses and revenue. Now would you please- "

"Ah, the meeting," Scar interjects. His hands still, but his fingers don't, tapping meditatively across Zazu’s collar. "Quite a shame I missed it. I was dragged off earlier by that brother of mine to overhaul the most recent wreckage of the unstoppable clown car more commonly known as our IT department. But please, do enlighten me. I heard it was quite the spectacle?"

Zazu huffs, grateful for the chance to complain, even if it’s only to Scar. "A debacle, if you ask me. The representatives that HathiCorp sent were insufferable. Couldn't comprehend the simplest concepts."

"Ah, corporate buffoons.” Scar continues the massage. “I'm sure you handled them with your usual grace."

Zazu straightens up, ready to assert himself. "Well, I-"

Before he can finish, Scar's fingers apply pressure in a place Zazu can only describe as strategic, and Zazu lets out an involuntary squeak. 

"Lost your train of thought?" Scar teases. His lips are dangerously close to Zazu's ear.

Zazu clears his throat, attempting to regain composure. "Ahem. It's infuriating how they disregard basic principles. I presented the data with utmost clarity, and yet..."

“No, no, let me guess- negotiating with them is like watching a parade of elephants. Slow, tedious, and ultimately pointless."

Zazu can’t help but snicker at the analogy. The rhythmic kneading is relaxing him more than he’d like to admit. "Well, negotiations with them can be challenging, but it's part of the job."

A soft hum as Scar digests this. Zazu swears he can feel the vibrations from the man’s chest. He tries his utmost to ignore them, and continues to type. 

Scar's hands pause momentarily, and he leans in closer. So much for ignoring. "You know what your problem is, Zazu?”

“I can’t begin to imagine,” Zazu says tartly. “But I might start with the VP who isn’t doing his job, having elected to come here and bother me instead.”

Scar ignores this. “You're too accommodating. You need to let people know who's in charge."

Zazu rolls his eyes. "Negotiation is about finding common ground, not dominating the other party."

"Tsk-tsk, Zazu.” Scar leans in again, a strand of black hair falling into Zazu’s peripheral vision. “Negotiation is an art. Allow me to share some wisdom."

Zazu tenses, trying very hard not to squirm, and mutters something along the lines of “I’m listening.”

“Good. Now, you've got to make them feel your presence. It's all about leveraging your strengths, being assertive. Using pressure if necessary.” Scar's thumbs dig firmly into a particularly tight spot. “Like this.”

“Ghk-!”  Zazu nearly chokes. “Scar!”

Scar snickers, fingers continuing their dance. “Yes, Zazu?”

“You are enjoying this entirely too much!”

“Mmm. And you aren’t?”

"This is not how negotiations work! And- and assertiveness, for your information, does not involve ambushing your colleagues in their offices!”

“Consider it an advanced technique, then." Scar continues the massage, far more gently this time, to Zazu’s immense relief. “Now, back to this report. I'm curious to know how my absence affected the meeting. You know, I wonder whether Mufasa kept me away on purpose?"

"Mufasa keeping you away on purpose? Please, Scar, he probably saved himself from the headache of managing both you and the HathiCorp disaster simultaneously. Your absence does seem to coincide with moments of relative sanity around here."

“Oh, brutal, Zazu.” Scar laughs out loud. “You wound me.” 

He runs a finger down Zazu’s neck, chuckling at the resultant shiver. “Ah, the burden of misunderstood genius. It's a tragic fate, really. But just to show you how magnanimous I am-”

“I’d rather you didn’t.”

“-I’ll give you one more piece of advice.”

“I’d definitely rather you didn’t.”

“No, no, you’ll like this advice.” Scar’s hands stroke once more across his back, lingering for a moment, and then recede. “It’s more like… insider information, if you will.”

Zazu finally manages to slump down into his chair. “What, Scar?”

The VP comes around the side of the desk and grins. “The coffee machine is finally operational. I’d highly suggest you take advantage before someone decides to stuff it with another flavor of- what was it?”

“Yogurt,” Zazu mumbles. His shoulders feel remarkably better, but somehow cold. He rubs his eyes. “That’s advice I can actually use."

“I’m so glad. Now, I hate to cut this short, but duty calls. Mufasa will start relying on his own judgment if I'm away too long, and we can't have that, can we?"

[floatyhands]

I think the premise of Disney's Wish being "powerful ruler cyncially monopolizes all young people's wishes and decides whose wishes get to be granted in order to hold on to power" COULD have been a powerful metacommentary on how Disney's entire brand is built upon monetising the dreams and self-actualisation of young people, and through their cultural power, dictate whose dreams are considered valid and deserving.

There's so much potential to work with here! Since Magnifico apparently founded Rosas, imagine him leaning into the idea of being a brilliant visionary who does grant wishes to make a beautiful world, but his perfect nostalgic utopia is an egotistical repressive nightmare and anyone who doesn't fit his vision is crushed, which wasn't too far from Walt Disney's initial vision for EPCOT. Hell, Magnifco as he is with only minor tweaks could easily act as a metaphor for the Disney boardroom execs, who inherited a beautiful kingdom but is so cynical and preoccupied with preserving power that the kingdom is a joyless repetitive husk, which is kind of what's already happening (and might explain why most the characters are so soulless lmao). Or imagine a KING AND QUEEN VILLAIN POWER COUPLE, a subversion of the classic Disney formula tradition where the good guys couple up and triumph through the power of (either heterosexual romantic, or just platonic) love while villains despise love as a concept! There's so many things they could have done!

IF ONLY THEY ACTUALLY DID ANYTHING WITH THIS.

All these neat concepts were never meant to be, because Wish is an example OF that sort of cynical exploitation of dreams. With creative freedom and vision, and some ACTUAL FUCKING HEART, this could have been a brilliant deconstruction/reconstruction of Disney's brand and legacy.

[writingsofwesteros]

BREAKING-King's Landing Daily- Young Targaryen Heir and Heiress Aegon and Daenora Targaryen spotted partying deep in the City just weeks after the death of longstanding patriarch, Viserys Targaryen.

It seems that the death of business moghul Viserys Targaryen was only the beginning of the dynastic family's problems. After the head of the Targaryen clan finally succumbed to his illness, the fractures in the Targaryen family became more evident to the public eye. Sources say that Alicent Hightower lawyered up the day Viserys took his last breath to make sure that the company went to her eldest son Aegon, meanwhile Rhaenyra, Viserys's firstborn, faces not only her stepmother and former friend in the boardroom but also the board of directors, who she'll need to prove to that she has what it takes after years of wild, messy escapades. Meanwhile, the party scene's darkest corners are painted silver by the presence of Aegon and Daenora Targaryen, who've been at every hot club and exclusive party this city has to offer, much to their mother's chagrin, no doubt. While Helaena and Aemond have fallen off the public radar, Aegon and Daenora are faced with cameras at even the seediest clubs, which was where shocking pictures of the siblings partaking in cocaine leaked online. The pictures were wiped from the internet but not our collective memories by none other than their grandfather, Otto Hightower. It seems that the Targaryen dynasty is standing at a crossroads, and time will tell whether they will come out stronger at the end, or if we'll finally see the downfall of a dynasty.

Videos that had circled online of the siblings dancing and being so incredibly close to each other - and people swear they saw them kiss. Of course, such footage is no longer available.

Aegon was caught with his pants down, literally - not that he cared and the reaction was ..wild