#OLENA TEASING HIM

[the-jam-to-the-unicorn]

THE moment 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍

[catsteeth]

Sugar & Violence

Podrick Payne x reader 

+:✿ Chapter 4 ✿:+ : Loyalty

1-2-3-_

Summary: You’re a Mormont being held hostage by House Lannister.  You are acting now as the Handmaiden for Margery Tyrell, whom you’ve grown quite close with. But it seems that a squire has caught your attention as you have caught his. 

CW: afab reader, SMUT(ish), MDNI, teasing, grinding, minor character death, talk of pregnancy and contraceptives, insanely sweet fluff, mention of alcohol consumption, mention of NSFW themes.

Word Count: 2868

꒰ ୨୧ ─ ・┈ ・ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ꒱꒱

As you and Margery walked, we discussed the night of passion you and Podrick had shared.

“Sounds like I was right about the tea.” She teased, she leaned into you and held onto your arm tighter “I’d say you love him.”

“I’d say I do, enough to stay here.” You said coldy, but gave her a small smile.

“Don’t be so selfless. You are giving him your life you know? You didn’t even give me that.” Margery did not understand how or why you would allow yourself to love a man so much that you’d allow yourself to remain captive. And she’d be lying if she said she wasn’t a bit jealous.

“I know that well.” You nodded, you didn’t understand it yourself. But you knew you loved him enough to stay.

“He has some gift if it makes whores refuse money and you refuse freedom.” She jested, making you smile,

“I guess he does.” You held back a laugh.

“I am happy to have you stay.” She said as she rubbed your arm with her palm.

“I am happy to be with you.” You said, smiling back at her.

“Has he proposed to you?” 

You shook your head, and looked down “No, but he has talked about… being…”

“Oh please, you can talk about bedding him but not wedding him?” 

“Seems more intimate than fucking.” You said wincing slightly

“You’d be a good match.” She said warmly

“You’ve never heard us speak together,”

“No but if a man as common as he is has inspired such idiotic selflessness from one of the most willful women I know he must be good to you. In more ways than one.” You and her smiled at one another, you held her arm closer to you. “Come now, my grandmother wants us to pick a necklace for the wedding.” 

“You haven’t picked one yet?” You raised an eyebrow,

“I have, she hasn’t.” You both giggled,

Walking off you and Margery met Olena who was still unimpressed with the necklaces presented. 

However she was impressed with the Lady who came to talk with Margery. And you would be lying if you said you were not also. 

A large and strong woman, Brienne of Tarth. 

You’d heard stories and murmurs about her strength. She was able to best Loras, knocking him to the dirt. 

You were so taken with admiration you couldn’t wait to tell your most adored companion about it that night.

꒰ ୨୧ ─ ・┈ ・ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ꒱꒱

You walked into Podricks chambers late that night, just to be sure that he’d be there and not attending to his lord. 

He was sitting on his bed, only in his breeches and tunic, taking off his last boot. 

As you entered, you closed the door, leaning back against it. 

“Hello, there Ser Podrick Payne.” You said in a half serious seductive voice.

“Hello Lady Mormont,” He smiled at you, and you began to walk up to him, smiling ear to ear.  “You look happy.” He said, reaching his hands out to you. You took his hands, intertwining your fingers together as you stood between his thighs. 

“I’ve just met the most extraordinary knight-“ You began but saw his face change from delight to jealousy, “Oh don’t look like that it was a woman,” You said as you started wrapping his arms around you

“A woman knight?” He said confused, 

You wrapped your own arms around his neck, “okay maybe she wasn’t a knight but she was everything but.” 

“you seem quite taken by her.” He smiled up at you, his hands traveling up and down your back.

“You should see her. Nearly seven feet tall I would wager, I hear she fights better than all the men in this shit city. Stronger too… Maybe not as strong as the hound or the mountain but… strong.”  You spoke about her as if you’d just witnessed a wonder. You climbed on top of his lap, your legs on either side of him. “When I was a girl, I would have wanted to be like just her.”

“And what about now? What do you want to be like now?” He asked as you pushed him down onto his bed, still smiling. 

“Like this… I like my position now.” You smiled, running your fingers down his chest. “It’s quite comfortable.” You said leaning down kissing his lips.

“I like seeing you like this.” 

“On top of you?” You teased, raising an eyebrow

“Happy.” He smiled, tucking your hair behind your ear. “But yes, that too.” He kissed you once more, “What was this lady knight's name?”

“Why? I’ve spoken so highly of her, you wish to run away with her?” You jested as you kissed his neck.

He let out a small groan at the sensation, but held it in as you continued. “I wish to know the name of the ser lady who’s brought my lady such happiness.” He petted your hair as you continued to kiss his neck.

You stopped for a moment, looking at him lovingly, ‘my lady’... you thought. But unwilling to draw any attention to it, you answered him. “Brienne of Tarth.” 

“If she’s brought you such joy then she is worth every bit of praise.” He said kissing your neck and collarbone.

His hands roamed your body, caressing the sweet spots that he’d learned fairly quickly were your weaknesses as you learned his was his neck.

You let out a sweet breathless whimper as you caressed his face, pulling it away from your chest, and placing a kiss on his lips before you spoke “We mustn’t. But your hands are… as always quite inviting.” You smiled weakly

“I haven’t held you in some time.” 

“Not since your Lord's wedding night.” You lips teasingly grazed his own,

“How have you felt… since that night. I mean, you’ve not had any uhm-“ He stammered, but you knew what he meant.

“Margery gave me moon tea and I’ve had my blood. You don’t need to worry about unpleasantness.” You knew your quick answer and tone would have signaled that you were angry or annoyed but it was just how you spoke. Direct and to the point. 

“I didn’t mean to- I am sorry I just wanted to be sure. If we did it… create.. one it would be a-“ He stammered again,

“A bastard. I know this. Exactly the reason I drank the tea.” You tried to soften your tone this time as you ran your fingertips through his hair.

“But if we were- perhaps in different circumstances- we could have seen what would have come?” He said sweetly, you caressed his cheek before kissing him. 

“Sweet boy.” You said into his lips, kissing him deeper, “Mmm” you moaned out as his tongue found yours. You ran your fingernails against his neck, dragging them slightly making him groan. “I can’t, I’ve a wedding to ready Margery for.” You said sitting up, as you did you felt his stiffened cock pressing against your inner thigh, “Oh,” You looked down and saw the bulge straining against his breeches, “I’m sorry-” You squeeked 

He held your hand, “It’s alright, I enjoyed it. Truly, I missed you.” He said softly with a smile.

“Sweetest boy.” You said pressing a kiss into his hand.

“I shall see you at the wedding?”

“Naturally. You going to dance with me?” You asked teasingly, you took his hand and bit on his finger lightly. 

He smiled at your bite, “I’ll beg my Lord to let me if I must. Are you going to dance with any other men?” He asked somewhat in jest but also wanting to know.

“I’ll spit in their drinks if they even ask.” You assured him,

“You will?” He let out a dry chuckle,

“I will say that I am promised to a great and honorable knight.” You smiled, but he looked confused, “You, Podrick.” You clarified. 

He shook his head, “I’m not a knight,”

“You are.” You said earnestly, kissing his hand once more.

He smiled up at you, longingly “Are you sure you cannot stay longer?” 

“Oh you wish for me to stay?” You teased. Podrick nodded with the same smile as before, “I can’t stay long.”

“I don’t need long.” He said strangely confidently.

“Oh? And what would you do?” You asked, kissing his neck, you could feel him twitch under you.

“Many things.” He grunted out, 

“Like what, Podrick?” You loved teasing him like this, and he liked it too. “Anything you wanted.”

“You want me to tell you?” You asked sweetly and he nodded, “I want,” You kissed his lips softly, “your tongue,” you grazed his bottom lip with your own tongue, “Between my thighs.” you whispered into his lips. He groaned. “I want you to lick me while you fuck me with your fingers.” His hands roamed your sweet spots again, gripping them tighter. “I want to bite your neck right… here” You licked and bit at his neck, he bucked up into you involuntarily from the sensation. He moaned sweetly, “While I grind my cunt against your cock.” You began to roll your hips against his cock, “I want your hands to grip onto my breasts harshly when I finally push you inside me.” You sucked at the skin of his neck while you continued to roll your hips, “I want you to feel so good, you stop being so fucking sweet, and you pull my hair.” you bit at his neck slightly harder this time, “I want to feel your heat in my body when you finally melt.” You finally moved away from his neck and kissed his lips once more before pulling away. “You like it when I talk like that?” you asked softly and sweetly. 

“Y-yes,” He stammered, his cock was so hard it almost hurt.

“Good,” You said, hopping off of him, “Cause that’s all you're getting until this horrid wedding is over with.” You began walking towards the door,

“What?” Podrick asked as he sat up on his shoulders. 

You looked back him, “I like teasing you, makes you fuck harder.” You smiled mischievously, “I don’t enjoy your pain however,” You hiked up your skirts, pulling your small clothes down with it. “Here.” You handed him your dampened, small clothes, “Until tomorrow.” You said with a final kiss before leaving the room. 

“Gods…” He said into your small clothes, slumping back into the bed and shoving his hand into his breeches.

꒰ ୨୧ ─ ・┈ ・ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ꒱꒱

The day was taxing. 

Margery’s hair, makeup, and dressing was a five woman job. The doll that you had the duty of dressing was no longer yours. 

You hoped that this marriage would be easy on her, hopefully Joffrey truly loved her enough not to harm her. You couldn’t guarantee that if he did you wouldn’t kill him. 

The only thing that relieved the stress was the guarantee that you’d be good and fucked by the end of the night. 

The entire wedding was extravagant… and exhausting. 

You stood behind Margaery and Joffrey as you held a pitcher of wine during the entire feast. That was until you noticed Podrick standing beside Lord Tyrion. He was staring at you with an adoring smile, which involuntarily evoked the same smile on your own face. Margaery looked back at you and noticed. She then dismissed you of your duties, allowing you to set down the wine on the table and walk to the side of the wedding floor. 

Podrick whispered something to Lord Tyrion who then dismissed him as well.

When Podrick approached you, you smiled. 

“I’m sorry I couldn’t help with your headache last night. My Lady demands much of my time, and my healing duties sometimes suffer for that.” You spoke in code just in case anyone near heard you. 

“Your gift helped.” He smirked at you, he leaned in a bit closer and whispered to you “You think this will be a happy union?” Looking over to Margaery and Joffrey. 

You nodded, “The King Joffrey inspires great emotion.” You said, sneeringly making Podrick hold back a laugh. 

“There has been far too much amusement,” Joffrey suddenly shouted, “A Royal wedding is not for amusement, but history. It is time we remember it! I give you the war of the five kings!” He said as a group of five dwarfs ran onto the wedding floor dressed as the five kings. 

“Gods…” You mumbled as you rubbed your temples. 

“My Lord says to pay them well afterwards.” Podrick whispered to you, 

“A decent compensation for humiliation.” You whispered back sarcastically.

As you continued to watch you felt an overwhelming sense of anger. If there was one thing that stayed with you from your upbringing as a Mormont it was loyalty. Loyalty to the North. You’d forgotten this wound, but seeing the Lannisters making a joke of it only opened it again. As you looked at the dwarf who played Robb you felt disgust when you realized what was on his head. “Is that… a direwolve’s head?” Podrick looked at you with sympathy.  “My aunt died in that war… I can’t watch this.” You said as you walked off, unable to bring yourself to continue it. 

As you walked on, you felt a hand grip your arm, as you turned around you realized it was not Podrick by a Guard, “Get your hand off me,” you spat at him

“You handled the wine tonight did you not?” He questioned, 

You tried to rip your arm away to no avail, “I served the Queen Margery. If she wished for wine she got it.” You said with venom, 

“No Queen anymore, Bear Bitch.” He said before dragging you off to be questioned for the poisoning of King Joffrey. 

꒰ ୨୧ ─ ・┈ ・ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ꒱꒱

It had been a day since you were confound to the confines of your chambers. Unable to be let out but you couldn’t complain. Tyrion was in the dungeon and you in your chamber. Margaery assured you, no one believed you had done it. However a Mormont holding the wine of a poisoned Lannister was not unnoticed. They needed you for questioning and if Tyrion somehow was able to prove his innocence, you would be called upon next. 

You laid on your bed, angry. You’d kicked away all the food they tried to give you. And spit in the face of every Guard that came into your chambers. 

When you heard your chamber door beginning to open you sat up and were about to shout at them to let you out when you noticed who it was. 

“Podrick,” “(Y/N)” You both said in unison as you both rushed to one another's arms.

“Are you alright?” He asked as he held your face examining you for any signs of harm “No one touched you did they?” His eyes piercing into yours

“No, no,” You lied, but he couldn’t do anything about it so why upset him? “Margery says they’ll let me go soon enough. They seem content with it being Tyrion.” You said, trying to calm him, ”Was it?”

“No.” He shook his head, then looked down as if he were disappointed in himself for what he was about to say next, “Some man, I didn’t know his face, offered to knight me. Under the condition that I testify against Lord Tyrion.” He looked back at you

“Tell him you’ll do it.” You responded swiftly. You wanted him to take any chance he got to get out of this situation. 

“I already gave an answer, I said no.” He said, softly.

“Podrick, they’ve begun an investigation on Bronn have they not? They’ll find a reason to arrest him. They’ll do the same to you.” You held onto his face, you spoke directly trying to get him to see reason. 

“Lord Tyrion commanded me to leave the city.”

You nodded, “You should leave.” 

“But you-” He began but you interrupted him. 

“That isn’t a suggestion.” You shook your head, “This is goodbye.” You began to tear up but fought it hard. “See to your duties whatever was commanded of you, then leave. Go far, far north.” 

“Leave with me-” He asked desperately as he still held onto you, 

“They won’t let me go, Podrick. I never wanted to be here. I’m a hostage, and now a prisoner. I can’t have the same for you.” You said softly, shaking your head.

He began to tear up as well, a single tear pushing its way through and falling down his cheek, “What if the moon tea didn’t work, what if you need me-”

“Podrick, you’re running out of time. Leave.” You commanded him as your own tears began to fall. 

“I wanted to marry you.” He whispered, 

“Podrick…” You held him closer, nuzzling your face into the crook of his neck, “I’ll find a way out soon enough, but first you go.”

He kissed you once more deeply before he whispered, “I’ll find you.” He promised it. He embraced you tightly once more as he ran his nose down your neck, breathing in your scent one last time before he did as you commanded. 

As the chamber door closed, you slumped to the floor, and cried. 

꒰ ୨୧ ─ ・┈ ・ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ─ ・┈ ꒱꒱

NOTE:

I be blue balling yall. sowwy.

Xoxo,

Bambi

BELOVED TAGS: 

@ryn-away @boojaynaqueen @holierthancunt @symonedoesart

[stargirlfics]

The Gentleman Chapter 5: Éclosion

Alfred Pennyworth x Black Dancer!Reader

Summary: Harsh realities and a dangerous new enemy push you and Alfred to be upfront about your feelings

Warnings: 18+ ONLY, canon typical violence, chemical attack mentions, light angst, soft concerned bf!alfred vibes, romantic gestures galore, brief allusion to smut, fluff & feelings!

Word Count: 4.9k

Note: So happy to be bringing you all more of this story I know it’s been a minute! Hope you enjoy this one, it’s special in a lot of ways! The soundtrack for this chapter and the title come from Èclosion by Tony Anderson which I listened to while writing. It makes me think of what falling in love feels like!

[series masterlist] [series playlist]

Tension lay heavy over the city in the days after the fear toxin attack, people were wary and on edge, the weather even starting to turn cold and dreary while unease hung thick in the air.

Paulie’s Diner was now the site of a police investigation, the entire street blocked off, the news coverage of the attack on a twenty four hour cycle, just barely contained panic swirling over this fear toxin and what it could do. 

You couldn’t lie that it was terrifying, hearing what those who’d been injured said about the toxic gas, what it did to them; hallucinations of a nightmarish hellscape drawing out everyone’s anger and fear, driving them mad. 

It sounded awful and then there was Scarecrow’s chilling warning, the mystery of who he was and what his motives were bringing back eerie memories of the year before and how out of control things had gotten. 

Worry twisted taut in your stomach, exhaustion in your limbs as you finished out your last show of the night, the fourth one in two days in fact, your body and mind run ragged. 

Oz was a smart man but he was predictable.

The new late night hour dance slots added to the schedule weren’t a coincidence, you were sure he was using the distraction to make more money, every dancer working doubles late into the morning hours now, Madame Olena working quick to teach new choreography, a refresher on some pole tricks and sexier strip teases and dances added to the repertoire of shows. 

There were bruises already blossoming on your shins from where you had to push against said pole as you climbed it, inching your way up so the audience could see you float and twirl around it, and as fun as it was, as much as you enjoyed getting to dance with your friends on stage beside you each night, you were tired and sore and just wanted to sleep for a year. 

Certain rituals were getting you through the grueling hours though.

Sleepy phone calls with Alfred before you drifted off when you got home, his sweet encouragement texts and reminders for you throughout the day and how he’d stopped by every other day this week so far to see you even if just to say hello before heading back to the office. 

You’d both been busy since the night of the attack, not finding much time inbetween work to spend the kind of time together that you wanted, a reluctance in both your voices when trying to soften the sting of it likely being the entire week and maybe even the next before you’d get to see each other properly.

That didn’t seem to sway Alfred much though, even when you insisted he didn’t have to go out of his way to come by if he was pressed for time, he showed up anyway, as often as he could. 

You were grateful for it, relieved that he didn’t find your disappointment about your schedules selfish with everything going on, just as content to get any second spent with you that he could. 

Reminders of him were everywhere now too.

The throw blanket on your sofa that smelled faintly like him, the new bouquet of fresh flowers he’d come by one afternoon with, the space near the front door made for his shoes and coat next to yours, like tiny little puzzle pieces were beginning to fill in, ones you didn’t even know you seemed to have all the perfect pieces for.

It made you laugh to yourself now, laid out on the floor in your living room, trying to ease the ache in your muscles, stretching each limb gently while pondering on how tangled up your heart was.

All these feelings were so intense, one part of you cautioning yourself to slow down, not get too invested when you’re not sure he even feels the same, or wants a relationship while another part felt sure about trusting the groundwork that had been laid so far.

So much was going on and you were sure a proper conversation would happen soon, when there was time—if it was Alfred that much you were sure of, knowing he’d never leave you wondering for too long but you did worry. 

Maybe it just wasn’t a good time, with Scarecrow loose and wreaking havoc and the recent reminder that you were under Penguin’s thumb indefinitely; it didn’t bode well for fostering a relationship and in Gotham that was tricky enough on its own. 

But you also couldn’t deny what you were feeling and experiencing. 

Another half suppressed smile coming then, a dreamy breath sighed out at the memory of the previous evening, when Alfred had come by to drop off some takeout only to see you icing your shins, his immediate concern when you greeted him making you laugh, something he didn’t find as amusing in the moment. 

His slightly stern but still soft, “Darling, what happened? Who did this?” made you squirm against the cushions while also making haste to explain before he got too upset. 

The worry on his features faded just a touch after, as he fussed over you, though you didn’t miss his slight eyebrow raise of surprise and intrigue when you said “pole dance”, reminding yourself to circle back around to that subject at a later date…you wanted to see how far that interest went. 

It’s just that he didn’t ever make you feel like these visits were a chore, that’s what you kept coming back to, remembering how his coat and cane were discarded to the side immediately so he could kneel down and take over icing your muscles, soothing hands kneading the stiffness from your calves, insisting that you start eating while he take care of you. 

How could you ever get over that? The gentleness with which he touched you? 

Wanting him felt like oxygen, just as normal as breathing and inevitable as falling asleep, his kisses tasting of hope and something sweet. Things felt different now that Alfred was in your life, the good kind of different, the exciting kind and it almost felt silly to be unsure if you could lean into this but the more you thought about it, the more clarity you came away with. 

There was a reason he spoke to you with such respect, his thoughtfulness about your feelings present in everything, and god the way he looked at you with so much fondness, how his expression could go from sweet to simmering in seconds, leaving you aching, feeling special and adored at every turn, it had to mean something. 

Lost in the web of your thoughts the chime of your phone’s alarm nearly startled you, the time letting you know you had to get ready for rehearsal, your focus now pulled in a different direction and you reasoned with yourself it was best not to overthink this if you could help it. 

The pattering of rain hitting the windows made you wish you could stay in instead, a daydream already forming about curling up with Alfred on the couch, snuggled under the blanket, napping together for the whole evening. 

Rushing out the door before traffic hit you couldn’t help but gaze out in the direction of Wayne Tower, wondering what he was up to, hoping his day was going okay and already counting down the hours until you could hear his voice again. 

Just across the city, staring out at the winking lights of traffic on the streets below, Alfred paced the floor of his study, his thoughts and emotions a tangled mess. 

He couldn’t remember the last time he felt this way, or felt this much about someone, realizing that he’d gotten swept up in it all, reality washing over him like ice now. 

The past week had been stressful to say the least, things were already busy with certain projects and due diligence with investors and financial advisors at Wayne Enterprises, now this fear toxin attack had taken center priority as well, he and Bruce already starting to work around the clock to get a handle on things. 

That meant there was less time available to be with you and even though it had only been a handful of days so far, and despite his frequent visits he still felt distant.

He missed you terribly when you weren’t around and it didn’t take much to see that his feelings for you were really entering serious territory. 

He should be happy about that, he knows he should be, but all there is for him in the moment is fear, because this could only ever end one way and he knows it.  

It was foolish to think he could have something proper with you, something not tainted by secrets that weren’t his to tell, tainted by a dangerous obligation he’d taken on to be at Bruce’s side in his mission as Batman.

That was an obligation he would never ever regret, all of it done out of love it’s just that most of his life had been spent with some proximity to danger and there had been many close calls.

Far too many tragedies had already happened he couldn’t let that become the case for you too. He wouldn’t allow it. 

You were too important to him already and he couldn’t drag you down into all this, especially not now with this Scarecrow figure coming out of the woodwork. 

It did hurt though, just the mere thought of ending things, his heart lurching painfully, not wanting to entertain the thought of letting you go for a single second.

A door he once thought was closed for good had opened the day you met and he let himself get close, captivated in every way, each time hoping it wouldn’t be the last time he would see you.

He was awestruck by how quickly you disarmed him, seeing him so clearly and the fact that you wanted him as well, that you wanted his attention?

He was helpless to do anything except be swept up, but now he had to understand he’d never be able to have that. 

It’d be alright, it would rip him open but this wasn’t the first time he’d chosen duty over feelings, he’d have to find comfort in knowing he had experienced this with you no matter how brief it was, already knowing he wouldn’t quite ever forgive himself for hurting you this way. 

“What’s wrong?” 

The question catches him by surprise as Bruce makes his entrance out of Alfred’s peripheral, still drying the rain from his hair. 

Perfect. Just in time for dinner. 

“Nothing, just working on some numbers in my head. How did it go?” 

His own question had been a deflection, one he’s not proud of but he just needed a second to get his bearings, to screw his head back on straight after thinking of you. 

“Went alright. They don’t have much to go on, Gordon says they’re trying to get a read on the chemical mixture in the gas but that could take awhile. I’m going back to the diner tonight, I have to try and find some clues, whatever I can get.” 

A rough hand passes over the scruff of his jaw as he considers the information, nodding after a moment. 

“I’ll be on standby if you find anything. I’ve been doing some digging myself, nothing concrete so far but there may be more security footage we haven’t seen that could identify him.” 

There's a moment after where it’s quiet, the two men moving around each other in comfortable silence before Bruce caves first, a light chuckle let loose, almost mixing with the downpour of the rain. 

If Alfred were any older he was sure he wouldn’t have heard it but he did, flicking one of his pointed looks at the young man. 

“Seriously, Alfred, what's wrong? Something’s on your mind.” 

He resisted the urge to brush it off or get defensive, softened at this offer to discuss, treasuring these moments of depth with Bruce whenever they came.

All he had to do was say your name and Bruce was nodding, his heart tugging at the sound of it, sighing and pinching the bridge of his nose before explaining further.

“I think I may have to end things. I-I’m worried about keeping her safe through this and ultimately she’s just better off. I’d have to lie to keep her from finding out, from getting involved and I don’t want to have to do that, it’s what’s best.” 

More silence, his heart sinking now that the words had been said out loud, the crushing reality setting in just a little more. 

“But you don’t want to let her go right? You do have feelings for her?” 

Alfred can sense the careful line of questioning, deciding to be truthful as vulnerable as it made him feel, nodding a yes. 

“I do, I have feelings for her.” 

“Good, I don’t think you should end things then.” 

Oh that wasn’t what he was expecting to hear.

“Bruce…it’s not as simple as that, she doesn’t know, she can’t know, that could put her at risk, you at risk, we don’t know when there could be another attack, I can’t let-“ but the words are falling short with a placating hand.

“Look I see the way she makes you feel and I don’t think you should let that go. I can’t let you do that actually, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice that, Alfred,” there’s a moment in between, a look that says he wants to say something else but finding the words is hard, “I never actually told you this but before Selina left town, I met up with her, saw her one last time. She wanted me to come with her and I-”

Alfred’s eyes widen for a moment, a sympathetic nod given as the sentence trailed off because he understood now what he always suspected but never pried about.

He figured Bruce had feelings of some kind for Miss Kyle but of course, his boy had chosen duty over feelings, just as he was contemplating doing himself. 

It was a clever way of calling him out on it he had to give him that. 

“I know you’re worried she’ll get hurt and I know you’re scared she won’t want anything to do with us when she finds out but I see how much you trust her, so I trust her and I think she’s safest close to us. You don’t have to lie to her, tell her just enough for now and we can keep her protected from it for as long as possible, you can tell her on your own terms.” 

His heart quickened, mulling it over, pacing again without realizing, struck by the sincerity in Bruce’s words.

The weight in telling him he didn’t need to make this sacrifice, carefully guiding a stubborn old man out of his head and setting him straight again, because the answer could be that simple for once even if everything else wasn’t. 

He’d be an even greater fool not to try just because it might be hard, knowing already that he’d regret not giving you every bit that he had to give out of fear and his own self doubt, so with a cautious nod he was agreeing, ribs loosening with a breath he felt like he’d been holding in for ages.

Nightfall was approaching now and Bruce had since snuck off after a little more discussion and a flat toned promise to eat dinner before going anywhere else, leaving Alfred sat at his desk with a newfound clarity to things. 

This made sense to him now, the swirl of thoughts racing through his brain. 

He knew how he felt about you and could admit he wanted to be with you, hands buzzing as he racked his mind for how to tell you, because it had been weeks now and he didn’t want to waste anymore time, he needed you to know he was serious and wanted a relationship and by god he hoped you felt the same. 

An idea came to mind on the tail end of his thoughts, Bruce’s earlier words echoing as he pulled out a few pages of his favorite writing paper, adjusting his glasses quickly before he picked up a pen and began writing.

The first snowfall in Gotham was just beginning to blanket the streets, snowflakes melting against the frosty windows while you got bundled up to go out on a date!

A small window of time opened up over the weekend and Alfred had taken the reins on it, telling you he wanted to take you out again, properly and his pick this time, promising to plan something he thinks you’d really enjoy.

You swear your heart skips when you see his sleek car pull up outside your apartment, feet already carrying you down the steps to meet him outside. 

“Hello, love. You look beautiful!” that smooth, accented voice causing your cheeks to burn despite the chill of the snow falling around you. 

Running into his arms he embraced you tight, pressing a chaste kiss to your temple before getting you tucked into the car.

“Thank you, same to you, handsome. I missed you.” your wistful sigh came softly as you put your seatbelt on, already trying to figure out where he was taking you. 

“I missed you too, more than you know. Ready?” His warm hands caressed your knee for a moment, squeezing as you gave him an answering nod. 

The car rumbled to life and you were off, the heat turned up comfortably while you slipped into an easy conversation that continued until he was pulling into a parking spot, one of the quieter downtown streets lit up and glittering through the window. 

“Are you treating me to pastries and hot chocolate right now? Is that the date because if so please say yes!” your excited shiver earned you a laugh when you step out, his cane in one hand and your own clasped around his arm, squeezing his bicep as you walked towards the sweet smelling cafe up ahead. 

“As many pastries as you’d like, darling…I also may have ordered us a special dessert ahead of time too.” his sheepish grin warming your heart. 

He was so impossibly sweet there were times where you wondered what you ever did to deserve him.

“Ooh that sounds fancy, are we celebrating something?” the innocent question hung opened ended as he got the door for you. 

“You could say that, yeah.” 

-

Later, foamy whipped cream lined the edge of your lips from sipping on the hot chocolate you’d taken to-go, Alfred kissing away the sugar quickly after even when you giggled out a protest against his lips.

Rounding the street together, it felt so nice to be this close and receiving his affection, holding hands as you walked.

You found it so cute how he checked to make sure no one was watching before he ducked down for another quick kiss.

Just as cute as when he sat next to you at the cafe, a reassuring hand resting over your thigh, absentmindedly playing with your fingers and the hem of your outfit while you indulged your sweet tooth.

That special dessert he ordered turning out to be one he used to love when he was younger, his wish in sharing it here to make a new memory of it with you.

Oh, he couldn’t be real.

That effortless charm was getting him everywhere and the delight didn’t seem to stop because now you were in front of a quaint, cozy looking bookstore, his arm already at the small of your back guiding you inside. 

The smell of ink and paper filled your nose, a homey feeling in your chest browsing over the shelves; your first bookstore date together.

You couldn’t have been more excited, glancing at Alfred every few seconds, all smiles and bright eyes pointing out familiar titles and old favorites, reading the descriptions of interesting looking novels together, a real and definite shift in the air. 

Something in the eye contact was different…heavier, a weight to it that made you feel short of breath.

Almost achingly so, your body was acutely aware of his closeness to you, the soft wrap of his hand over your waist, how his shoulder bumped into yours when you wandered over to the romance novel section, it made you feel like your chest was caving in, and you weren’t even afraid.

No, you were happy to let yourself collapse into the feeling.

The bookstore made you feel a little like you were in a romance novel yourself, faded patterned rugs draping the wood floors, soft fairy lights hanging above you and the rows of books and haphazard stacks laid out in armchairs all felt whimsical, romantic; perfect for two bookworms turned lovers.

“This is part two of my date plans, you know. Whatever books catch your eye, I’ll buy for you, my treat.

As if he didn’t aready have the key to your heart. 

“Even if the book is an erotic novel?” you beamed back at him, smiling at the one he’d picked up off the shelf you were peering at, recognizing the cover anywhere.

“Oh especially if it’s that.” 

“How crass, Mr. Pennyworth, I would have thought you to be more of a Shakespeare guy!” you joke and pluck the book from his hands, thumbing through a few pages.

“I most certainly am but I do have skills in other areas too, darling. It’s important to be a well rounded reader.” 

He says it with an edge to his voice that leaves you speechless, your brain lagging just a second behind as he leads you further into the store, a beeline made to the poetry section. 

-

A short while later and both of your arms were balancing a stack of books each, you trailing behind Alfred as he lead him you to a secluded spot in one of the reading corners in the store’s second level so now you were sitting side by side, musing over your book picks for each other. 

True to his words, he’d bought you all the books of your choosing along with some he’d gotten just for himself too; a photobook of the English countryside, another about hand to hand fighting and then a few books about chemical compounds finding their way into the mix too.

You didn’t know he had an interest in chemistry but didn’t question it, forgetting about it a moment later when he pulled out a book he found of different black burlesque dancers through history, a little gasp filling the quiet space when he told he got it as a gift for you.

As if you needed anymore reasons to fall for him further, all this was taking the cake.

- 

Hours had gone by, the two of you huddled together sharing stolen kisses in between the last sips of hot chocolate and the turning of pages, truly feeling like you were in a world apart with him, like whatever was happening out there in the world couldn’t touch you, at least not here. 

Heat tingled on your lips when you kissed him again, a little more soundly this time, showing him just how much you missed him. 

It had been too long.

Remembering that the last time you’d been intimate like this was the morning of the attack, part of you wishing you could be in his bed right now, spread out underneath him, taking him until you were making a mess of his sheets but the other part of you didn’t want to leave this moment in time with him, a whole different level of intensity to this all on it’s own.

You’d never felt so connected, so close in your life, so much unspoken sentiment in the way his larger hands were grasping your much smaller ones, holding them warmly before his forehead was pressing against yours.

“I have one more thing to give to you, sweetheart.” 

Your eyes fluttered open then, the gentleness in his whisper wrecking you, sitting patiently as he moved back a bit. Watching with bated breath, he fished an envelope out of the inside pocket of his coat and placed it in your hands, leaving the rest up to you. 

The way your heart was clammoring in your chest and your own anticipation kept you from noticing the nervous jitter of his hands, seconds feelings like minutes while you unfolded the paper, realizing he’d written on it, recognizing his handwriting right away.

With trembling hands you brushed your fingers over where he had written your name, words beginning to sink in as you read the letter addressed to you. 

My love, 

I fear there will never be enough words to describe how dear you are to me but I will try my best to write them all here. I’ve never felt so sure about someone before, about the way you make me feel and how vast those feelings are. The morning we met I had a feeling that there must have been a reason we crossed paths and now I know there was. You must know I couldn’t sleep that night, because all I could think about was if you were okay and if you had made it home safely. I just couldn’t get you out of my head and then there you were again at The Magpie wanting to talk to me and I knew then I was the luckiest man in the world.

Glancing up from the page you locked eyes with Alfred for just a moment, a perfect mirror of your feelings reflected in them. 

Never in a million years did I think I’d ever feel this way again but I do and I need you to know that being a man worthy of your affections is all that I want to be. You were meant to shine as brightly as you do, my darling, I never want you to feel as if you have to hide your talent or temper the big, wondrous ideas you have. They’re all I ever want to hear. You do in fact have my heart, love, as much of it as you want to take, it is yours. 

Tears welled along your lashes as you kept reading, everything in you softened by each line, your heart opening, hatching, blooming at his words, hearing how much he felt for you too. 

…things are less than ideal right now I know, and there are things you don’t know about me yet either, things in my past and certain things in the present that I want to tell you about but have to be careful of first, your safety is always a priority for me but I do plan to tell you in time. Darling, I know how I feel about you and I think and hope you feel the same about me. I cherish every second I get to spend with you, there’s so much I want to show you, so much I want to tell you and do with you by my side if you’ll have me. 

There was one more page left, filled with more words that made your stomach flip with butterflies, those tears threatening to fall because what he was saying was everything you had hoped for and then some.

And you think you understood what he meant about needing to be careful with certain secrets before he could speak about them, thinking on your own situation with Penguin—you still hadn't told Alfred those men where his that had been sent to follow you.

It was wonder how your heart was still inside your chest at this rate, a tear breaking free to fall down your cheek as you finished reading, lingering where he signed his name.

Yours always,

x Alfred. 

The letter lay in your lap as strong hands- no longer trembling- reached for you again, brushing the stray tear from your cheek. 

Your face was cupped so tenderly in his hands you almost started to cry for real, never knowing it could be like this, that you could be told and shown in so many ways that you were wanted and adored.

“I know we haven't really discussed this yet and so much has gotten in the way but I want to say it here and now, I would really love it if you wanted to be mine. Admittedly it has been some time since I’ve dated anyone and I am rusty, you’ll have to forgive me if this could have been better but I do want to be with you, I have all this time.” 

“Oh, Alfred. Yes, of course I want to be yours! I’d love nothing more. And shut up, this was a perfect way to tell me, you’re not rusty at all, old man.” 

You sniffled with a laugh, leaning in to press your forehead against his again, both of you sinking into the moment together, feeling tethered to one another now, connected in a way you hadn’t been before. 

Things had just gotten very real and for as much as you’d pondered and daydreamed of this moment, you didn’t feel an ounce of fear at the gravity of feelings before you.

Trusting in Alfred’s words, ones he’d actually taken the time to spell out to you on paper so you could keep the reminder of his devotion forever, the gesture easing any worry there might have been. 

Snow was still falling outside as you sat together for just a little while longer, Alfred pretending not to notice you sneaking giddy glances at him while you gazed over the letter one more time before stowing it safely away in your bag. 

Your hand finds his, fingers lacing together while you rest your head against his shoulder, closing your eyes contently for a moment when you feel his cheek press against you.

The odds still seemed grim, the whole city on edge with so much uncertainty left on the horizon, cause enough for isolation and the walls around people’s hearts to come up but not here, not with you and Alfred.

You felt stronger for it, having faith that whatever was coming your way in the time ahead, you’d have him by your side and that gave you all the hope in the world.

---

A/N: Soo they finally got their moment! I actually began this chapter with the ending of it in mind already, I was listening to the chapter title song in the playlist and was like oh this is where it would play, this is the moment where he admits his feelings and asks her to be his girl

There were times where writing this chapter was such a challenge but also really exciting and wholesome too! Hope it gives you all the feels it gave me and I'm giving kisses to those who pick up on all the little details in this too, thank you so much for your patience while I write this series and for all the love!

(dividers used are by the wonderful @saradika 💫 )

Let me know what you think!! Thank you for reading as always!

some tags, no pressure! @eupheme @squidlywiddly87 @the-eyes-of-andyserkis @tarabyte3 @tarrenterror25 @ozarkthedog @peachyteabuck @unrefinedmusings @aislupu @mariahthelioness29 @flamingdisputes @ayoarticulate @fluffyprettykitty @kneelforloki @allaboardthereadingrailroad @xoxovivarecs

[mrfelixfischoeder]

Ship of choice- fancy outfits

i went ahead and ran with a ship i dont get to do often but he haunts me - olena and knubbler! I actually super love this snippet so thank you 🥰

“Hey ‘Lena, we’re leavin’ soon!” Dick knocks and then opens her bedroom door. He’s known her for years now – nearly as long as the boys – not that anyone else bothers to learn about the intricacies of anyone else’s relationships. He looks around the room, before seeing her standing in front of her full-length mirror (the edges decorated with silver angels and cherubs).

“Oh boy.” His eyes, for a moment, spark pink.

He’s no stranger to beautiful women, but there is something about Olena that strikes different. He loves seeing her transform to her well-fitting casual wear to her red carpet dresses. Though she looks good in the former, she really goes all out in the latter. She likes to impress. Her body is draped in diamonds and delicate chains, formfitting around the waist – leaving just a little peek of the curve of her chest. The rest over her shoulder drapes down her back like a cape.

“Dick, perfect,” she turns her head a little, hair tied into one big fishtail braid, hanging over her left shoulder. “I t’ink some of them are twisted; can you help?”

“Always, baby!” Dick walks over, platform boots loud even against the carpet. He only now notices that his cream suit kind of matches her. Doesn’t help he opted for the diamond studded boots. As his fingers slip between the diamonds, untwisting the misbehaving loops, he feels goosebumps follow the finger tips against her spine. “You cold?” he teases, and Olena laughs a little. Only he could make her laugh so easily - she isn't sure why.

When they first met, he was cocky. A little too forward, a little too out of touch with the meaning of personal space - but after she played for him, his attitude had switched. Not worth losing real talent over a dinner date. Dick “Magic Ears” Knubbler had, at the time, some sense to him.

But now? Well, he knows her a little better. She's re-recorded for him countless times outside of DethKlok. He can get away with the familiar comments. He can get away with resting his hands on her hips, though he doesn't realise the full reason why.

“How do I look?” She asks. Dick considers his options: it's not often an answer can be both correct and true in this day and age. But how poetic does he want to be?

“You're my little star, ‘Lena!” He decides, and she makes eye contact with his reflection. His green pupils widen as far as they can go, like a cat seeing something they want. “Shining. You look beautiful.”

She looks at herself then. She shifts her body, letting the light make her diamonds glisten. His hands follow the movement of her hips, gently pushing her to spin on the spot and face him. “Your lipstick’s a bit smudged, though.”

“Where?” She nearly turns right back round, but he’s quick - he leans in and plants a kiss on her lips. Not rough, not pushy, and he feels her lips move into a smile against his. When he leans back, he gently thumbs it away.

“Just there!”

“Höppänä!” She bats his arm, turning to double check he had rid of it with a grin that can't be wiped away as easily. Satisfied, she turns and marches past him, a hand slipping into his to drag him after her, “Don’t do that!” it is impossible for her to sound serious with that smile.

“Aw, never?” He asks, tone light. Her lack of reply says all he needs to know.

[belikov-barnes]

Rose having a strong familial bond with Belikova women is ❤ I headcanon Viktoria went to the United States after she graduated St. Basil's. She and Rose cleared the air about Rolan and became closer than ever.

Olena loves to dote on Rose, knowing how she didn't really have that experience as a child. Karolina gets really protective, and takes on a role as a big sister. She also loves to tease Dimitri and tell Rose all of the embarrassing stories about him that she can. Sonya takes a while to open up to Rose. She's learnt to not trust people too quickly, since she's been hurt in the past. But it's this protective instinct in her that Rose can relate to, and after a few visits Sonya feels comfortable to open up and trusts Rose implicitly. She and Rose end up becoming confidants in each other, because they know they can trust the other to be straight and call each other out on their bullshit when necessary. Yeva loves pushing Rose's buttons, but she really is very fond of her. She'll just never tell her that outright! The kids love Rose. They all look up to her and admire that she's a badass guardian in charge of protecting the QUEEN! And Viktoria just sees Rose as another best friend. She immediately clicked with Rose the first time she met her in Baia, and after their reconciliation they got even closer. Plus, I always thought it would make more sense for Viktoria to come to Palm Springs with Dimitri and Sonya in The Golden Lily. She's someone that Rose and Dimitri would trust completely to help keep Jill safe and would be around the right age to be in school with her.

[gins-potter]

Febuwhump Day 2

Title: haunted by the ghost of you

Fandom/Pairing: Vampire Academy/Romitri

Prompt: “i dreamt you were alive” (alt.)

Warnings/triggers: n/a

Rose wasn’t sure exactly what had awoken her; the sun filtering through the sheer curtains was still weak, just the first strains of daylight, nice but not strong enough to have bothered her, and the house was still quiet around her.  It was early, so early that not even Olena would be awake yet.  So early that Rose definitely shouldn’t be awake.

But here she was, stretching with a sleepy smile as she reached across the other side of the bed which was disappointingly empty.  She made an incomprehensible noise of protest at that but pushed herself upright and off the bed anyway, rubbing at her eyes as she padded across the room.  She didn’t stop to pull on shoes or anything warmer than the t-shirt and shorts she’d worn to bed, because, despite the early hour, the air lacked it’s usual chill.

No one stirred as she passed the other bedrooms off the hallway, and it was so quiet that she might have been the only person in the Belikov house altogether.  But Rose had a feeling she wasn’t alone, the same feeling that drew her downstairs and led her into the living room.

Dimitri smiled and set aside the book he was reading when she entered.

“I was wondering when you’d get here.”

The phrasing of his words was strange but it was early enough and Rose was happy enough to see him that she didn’t think about it twice.  Instead she practically floated across the room towards him, slipping onto his lap as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

“Not all of us like to rise with the sun,” she grumbled, burying her face in the soft fabric of his shirt.

“You’re missing out,” he teased in response, sliding warm hands under the hem of her top.

She grumbled unintelligibly, making him laugh, and snuggled closer, feeling him duck his head to rest on her shoulder, entwining them impossibly closer so they might never be separated.

“I’ve missed this,” he murmured so quietly that she almost missed it.  The warmth of his breath hit her throat and she shivered, thinking over his words.

“Missed this?” she repeated with a snort.  “I seem to remember us being in a position not too different just last night.”

Dimitri didn’t answer and for the first time since she’d awoken a sense of unease started to slither through Rose’s veins.  She shivered again, feeling cold now, and leaned back a little so she could catch a glimpse of Dimitri’s face.  But he kept his head down as if he could bear to part with her.

“Dimitri,” she said, and he finally drew back so they could see each other.

His expression was sympathetic, even a little sad, and the discomfort in Rose grew.

“What?” she said, the question coming out sharper than she’d intended.  “Why are you looking at me like that?”  She’d always hated feeling like she hadn’t been let in on something, almost as much as she hated seeing pity in people’s eyes when they looked at her.

Like the way Dimitri was looking at her right now.

“You have to wake up, Roza,” he said gently, before she could ask again.

Rose laughed, the sound false to both their ears.  “What do you-”

“You need to wake up now,” he said again and pressed a tender kiss to her forehead.

A kiss Rose swore she could still feel as she woke, panting and bolting upright, in the dark room of the Belikov house.  She looked around, chest rising and falling rapidly, convinced that she would find him sleeping beside her, ready to pull her into his arms and whisper sweet comforts when she told him she’d had a strange dream.  But the bed was cold and empty and undisturbed.

Feeling sick and not wanting to believe what was slowly dawning on her as the last vestiges of sleep slipped away, Rose flew from the bed, racing out of the room and down the hall, making more noise than was probably considerate to the other sleeping occupants of the house.  But she didn’t care as she took the stairs two at a time, not when she had to see.

She skidded into the dark living room and her eyes fell on the armchair where she was sure Dimitri had just sat.  The empty armchair.  The mundane armchair that she’d walked past countless times since she’d come to stay at the Belikov house.  The armchair that now felt as painful to look at as the mouth of that cave where she’d seen Dimitri falter.

The small seed of hope that Rose hadn’t even realised was preparing to bloom in her chest withered and it felt like Rose was dying right along with it.

She clamped her hand over her mouth and the sound that was threatening to emerge from her, something wounded and loud that would surely wake the others.  Rose didn’t want them to see her like this and she didn’t want to explain how easily she’d been duped into believing, if only for a heartbeat, that she might have Dimitri back.

She stumbled blindly out of the room and found the back door, finding the handle through the haze of unshed tears and stepping out onto the back porch.  She tripped down the stairs and sank onto the grass, wrapping her arms around herself and rocking back and forth a little to try and keep the sobs at bay.

It was painfully difficult and she felt as though the hole that had been in her chest since losing Dimitri was splintering and widening with every passing minute but eventually her silent tears eased and the sobs wracking her body passed.  In their place a desolate sort of emptiness settled over her.

Without Dimitri or Lissa she was lonely, desperately so, she realised.  She already loved the Belikov’s like a family, but they had their own pain, their own grief, and she loathed to burden them with hers as well.  She wanted to talk to Lissa.  She wanted to talk to anyone.  She wanted to talk to Dimitri.

The thought nearly brought her back to tears.

In the movies they always went to their loved one’s grave to do this, but there had been no body for the Belikov’s to bury of course, and no headstone bearing Dimitri’s name in the little cemetery attached to the town’s church.  So Rose just tilted back her head and spoke to the stars, hoping that Dimitri’s soul, wherever it was now, could hear her.

“I dreamt you were alive,” she whispered, fresh tears sliding down her face.  

The confession sounded pathetic to her own ears; the desperate dream of a desperate girl.  But Dimitri wouldn’t have thought her as desperate or pathetic, she could imagine him tenderly tucking a lock of hair behind her ear and asking her to tell him about it.  That was the image of him that she held in her mind as she continued.

“I dreamt you were alive,” she repeated.  “And even though when I woke up I knew it wasn’t real, I wanted so desperately to believe that it could be.”

There was a soft noise behind her, an exhale and murmur of Russian, and Rose twisted, heart pounding, to see Karolina standing on the porch.

“Karo,” Rose muttered, turning back around and hurriedly wiping at her face.  “Sorry… I couldn’t sleep… I didn’t mean to wake you…”

Karolina didn’t answer, didn’t acknowledge her babbling words, and there was only the quiet crunch as she crossed the grass to sit beside Rose.  She didn’t look at Rose, for which the other girl was grateful, but looked up at the stars as well.

“I dream about him too.”

Rose glanced at her, but Karolina didn’t look away from the sky.  Her expression was blank, a fair replica of her brother’s guardian mask, but even she couldn’t keep the sorrow from her eyes.

“Mostly memories from when we were children, how I remember him.  But sometimes I have nightmares too, about how he is now.”

Rose wanted to take her hand, made an aborted movement almost like she was going to, but held herself back, unsure that the touch would be appreciated.  Karolina didn’t say anything further, didn’t elaborate on her dreams, for which Rose was grateful, her own imagination about what Dimitri was now was bad enough.  Karolina simply looked at Rose, and she recognised the look for what it was: an offer to unburden herself, if that was what she needed.

“It was stupid,” she said, even as her lips trembled and she had to press them together for a moment.  “It was just a moment, a single moment, of what we could have been if he was still… it felt so real.”

Karolina nodded.  “I think that’s when I miss him the most.  The tiny moments, seeing a book I think he’d like, sitting around the dinner table and feeling like someone is missing, Paul doing something funny and knowing I’ll never get to tell him about it, that’s when I feel his absence the most.”

Rose found herself nodding.  It was things like the smell of his soap that she missed, the slight smile that would cross her face when she said something that amused him, the warmth of his touch.  The tiny moments that should have made up their life together.

“I don’t know how to survive those moments,” she whispered, feeling herself fracture further with the admission.

There was no hesitation in Karolina’s movements as she reached for Rose, sliding an arm around her and pulling her close to her.  It was the touch of a sister, and she wondered when Karolina had started to feel like that to her, even as her sobs started up fresh.

“I don’t know either,” Karolina admitted, stroking Rose’s hair as she held her.  There was comfort in Karolina saying she was as lost in her grief as Rose was.  “I can only hope that with time they might start to hurt a little less.”

Rose wasn’t sure how long they sat like that, with Karolina holding her so tight that she could feel when the other woman’s tears start to fall alongside her own, but it was long enough that the sun had just started to scrape the horizon and they could hear Olena bustling around the kitchen by the time they stirred themselves.  Rose didn’t know how to thank Karolina for the comfort the woman had offered in that dark moment of night, she supposed that besides Lissa, and her mother only occasionally, she’d never had another woman care for her like that.  But when they stood and faced each other, no adequate words coming to mind, she saw the solace in the other woman’s expression  and found herself wondering if Karolina had needed those hours and their conversation as much as she had.

Before she could force herself to find words, Karolina touched her cheek briefly and said, “He will always be with us, but it will get better, one day.”  And Rose knew that nothing else needed to be said as they turned and made their way back into the house.

[theoppositequeens]

with you between my arms

Rating: T

Summary: Nina has a problem: the midsummer fete. Or more like, the traditional Fjerdan dancing at the midsummer fete.

Read it on Ao3 here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/32245564

Written for @helnikweek2021 Day 1: Dancing.

-------

Nina never ever thought they'd get here.

Never thought they would survive to see peace, to see their children grow up to adults near the border between Ravka and Fjerda. Never be part of this lovely community of people from all walks of life.

The little town is called Fredisthmus, and it sits on a small tongue of land by the sea. Most are fishermen, seamen or travelers of some kind – they have a nice port. This is part of the reason Nina and Matthias settled here, to be able to travel to Os Kervo and then Os Alta quickly if Nina is summoned. It happens rarely, now. Her gifts are unique, but not often required. Their eldest daughter is living at the Little Palace, though, just finishing up her Healer training, so that inspires some of their trips.

Fredrik, their youngest, is sailing the seas, putting his Squaller gifts to use. He has always been a free spirit. Maja, their middle child, is still at home, courted by a lad in the village that Matthias intimidated properly in the beginning. Nina has to hand it to the lad, he stuck it out gracefully and she thinks he does deserve their little swallow. She will thrive working with him in the pub that he owns, where she started waitressing years ago.

The tensions are finally easing, it has been a nerve-wracking ten years of seeing if the peace accords will hold. Finally, the former enemies have established trade and settled. There are still differences in how Grisha are seen, and most emigrate into Ravka, but the Fjerdans have had to admit to using Grisha powers for their own gain, revealing their hypocrisy.

The tensions easing are at fault for Nina's current problem: the midsummer fete.

Or more like, the traditional Fjerdan dancing at the midsummer fete.

The town has established many traditions: market days, autumnal harvest party, midwinter mass for believers of different faiths and afterwards a merry evening of good food and warm alcoholic glög, served from stalls on the streets and consumed quickly. They have even had midsummer feasts before, but this one is to celebrate ten years of lasting peace. It will be grand, with a sit-down dinner of potatoes with dill, fresh fish and pickled cucumber, early summer vegetables and warm bread. Long tables are already placed in the square around the flower-bedecked midsummer pole, and after the eating they will be cleared away to create a dancing space.

Nina doesn't quite know how to dance the Fjerdan dances. She has played hostess at most other events since they moved here seven years ago, happily claiming to be too busy to dance, and Matthias has never pressured. Now though, the other ladies in town have quite forbidden Nina from working at the fete, claiming it is her turn to enjoy the festivities. She has desperately tried to learn the dances from her friends, but there is only so much one can practice on their own, and she refuses to admit to Matthias that she cannot dance.

She has always been slow to pick up dance steps, though she loves moving to music. Ravkan dancing is freer, less structured steps and more having fun. There are partnered dances, but Nina has never cared for those. Besides not knowing the steps, she never quite trusts someone to lead her. She doesn't care for the loss of control, the idea that she has to let a man lead her. Nina can manage well on her own, thanks.

But she knows Matthias wants to dance, so she will try her best, even though the thought gives her anxiety. They had not even danced at their wedding, though it was a relatively quick affair when Nina first got pregnant.

Her husband, completely unaware of her distress, serves her more of the rhubarb pie she loves, and continues the conversation with Maja and her admirer over the table.

Their children are all children on war, born when the conflicts were still brutal, though none of them remember much of it, thankfully. Still, Nina and Matthias have always wished they had been able to give the children better childhoods. They tried their best though, while doing important work, and the kids loved all their Grisha aunts and uncles who babysat them. Sometimes, Inej would even dock in Os Kervo and entertain the children on her ships with stories of the sea as Nina met spies to exchange vital information in the port city.

Nina stops reminiscing when the last "skål" is called out and everyone empties their shot glasses of fruit punch, and begin clearing the tables. She sneaks some dirty dishes over to the big wooden tubs where the washing will be done, but her neighbor Olena gives her the stink eye and she backs away laughing, hands in the air. Okay, she will not get away with working.

Instead, she watches as the men clear the tables. Children run afoot, and she gathers them to her on some hay-bales, telling them the story of Sankta Alina of the Fold, highly embellished, until there is no more danger of them tripping the working men.

Then, she has no choice but go to the dance floor when the fiddler strikes up a tune and two men and a woman sing a fast paced polka. It feels horrible to start with this dance, and surely she will make a fool out of herself, but Nina takes Matthias' warm hand and jumps into the fray. Soon enough, she realizes most other Ravkans in the village are as lost as she is, but most of the Fjerdans know the dance and spin the others around to end up in the right places. Keeping up with the steps is an impossible task, but Nina tries.

Next, the crowd partners up for a waltz, and Nina swallows heavily. Matthias is supposed to lead now, and they take the appropriate position. She wedges her leg close between his, which Zoya always said helped when they attended dances and Nina would hesitate. You can feel his movements better, it helps him guide you.

The music starts, and Matthias moves her with careful pressure on her hand and waist. Nina follows stiffly, trying to melt to the music the way she knows she should. It just makes her feel awkward. Matthias frowns slightly down at her, and then whispers,

"Are you nervous, rœd fetla?"

She denies this vehemently, and steps on his toe, completely by accident. He throws his head back and laughs, that deep and soul-warming laughter of his that she has always loved. He looks down at her, eyes sparkling, dimples showing in his cheeks, and suddenly Nina has forgotten how to be stiff.

He continues to tease her about being nervous about a waltz, and without noticing she begins to let him lead, defending her honor and making him laugh all the while.

When the next dance begins, she barely thinks about it, follows Matthias' lead and trusts his hands and body to guide her. They have moved on to mocking each other about some matter unrelated to dancing, but the banter keeps Nina from overthinking her steps and her need to be in control.

She lets Matthias and the music lead her.

[ken-pen]

Life After.(Bede)

On Bede’s life after the Darkest Day and Rose’s arrest.

The Darkest Day is something like a dream for Bede. The rush of battling Gloria is still flooding his ears, he can’t think, only feel, then-

Something overwhelming, more so than anything he has ever felt in his life. The red wraps around his throat, the presence suffocating him. The sky is red, wisps of malicious purple floating in some kind of hurricane. He can’t quite feel, as if his soul has been pushed out his body, and he’s just scared, he can’t breathe-

Something solid grasps his shoulder, then like a blanket, it sweeps over him, and he’s gone. 

He finds himself in a cleaning outside of the city, and his Hatterene stumbles around him, hair shifting like a veil as her tiny body tries to support his.

The next couple hours are a blur, somehow, but some miracle, he ends up at Opal’s, to which he then promptly collapses onto the couch. Vaguely, he thinks that Opal would scold him for not taking off his shoes or changing out of his uniform...

His entire body aches, throat raspy from whatever the hell happened in the Rose stadium. He has probably been to hell, he figures, whispers of red and purple and wind and screaming and 

Hatterene. She has teleported him out when he was too scared to move, to think, the crushing force of the storm suffocating him. There’s shame for being weak, which he pushes aside.

Of course, Opal’s there, because she always is, with a piping hot cup of earl grey and a coy smile on her face. She gently explains how she came home after looking for him in Wyndon only to find him battered and asleep on the couch. It’s odd, because Bede excepts her to sound angry for wasting her time, but he can find any anger. (He’s never been able to find anger in Opal’s voice. That was different from Olena.)

And so they drink their tea, and wait the catastrophe out. Something like a week passes, and Bede’s not surprised that it was Gloria and Victor who put a stop to it all.( Of course they are the one’s to fix everything, everything mess he and his father Rose creates, he thinks bitterly.)

He goes with Opal to watch the final match, which Gloria of course, wins (but that never made it any less exhilarating, with the way he battled with a fire behind her eyes). He meets her in the afterparty, her face flushed and red with joy as she hugs her Cinderace with glee. She looks happy(and he plunges down the jealousy that arises).

It’s actually Victor who pulls him aside at a dinner party, holding his hand, and looking straight into his eyes. Victor explains, and all Bede can do is laugh. It’s all things he should have expected, with the wishing stars that summon dynamax and Rose’s feverous control over the power plant--

he hates himself for not seeing it before. For a long while, he just stares at his hands. He remembers raiding every cave, destroying Stow-on-Side, and for what? The apocalypse? 

Victor stays there for a very long time with him. Faintly, he feels bad for him, because it must be awkward, sitting in the bathroom of a fancy restaurant with the orphan when he’d surely rather be with Hop or his sister. Bede hums, trying to tell Victor to go, have some fun. He still stays, why, Bede isn’t sure.

It isn’t before long that Bede gets swept up by his new title as gym leader. While there are congratulations to be made and Alcremie shops to visit ,but he still has to train to be the best he can. 

He falls into routine, training from morning until lunch with Opal, then training by his lonesome with his pokemon. Every Wednesday, the twins take it upon themselves to visit Bede, battle, pulling Hop and Mareanie along. Opal laughs, teasing him on how soft he is with his friends (friends. friends. he has friends, and for some reason that astonishes him)

He doesn’t have to think about Rose. It’s because Bede is slow and weak, and there are just some part of his past he isn’t quite able to accept yet. Its a wound raw and refreshed with every memory of a disappointment. There’s anger there, too, which then fizzles into resignation. 

Opal notices, becuase of course she does, and allows Bede the day off. It isn’t a Wednesday or anything, just a day off for seemingly no reason. 

Bede doesn’t talk, he thinks. Then he acts, as if they are parallel to each other. Rose is in prison, therefore he doubts anyone is taking care of his pokemon. Therefore, Bede should care for them.

He does have to get through to Olena. She’s still tall with sharp heels and a sharper tongue, but something about her seems so...worn. There’s pity for her in Bede’s heart, but still fear, and still not forgiveness just yet. She gives him the pokemon and never speaks more than necessary.

Bede and Rose’s pokemon have never really interacted all too much. Simple business, professionalism, commands and obeying. Knock down this, Copperajah. Slash, Perrsercker. They look at him warily, quiet, steely. He can’t blame them, because that was their relationship, simple orders laced with apathy and indifference. They knew to obey.

Sadly, Bede recognizes the similarities. 

Bede talks to them, tosses a ball, sits with them as he does with any other member of his team. They warm up to him over the years, his team welcoming them with open arms: Reuniclus zips around with Klingklang, and Rapidash and Ferrothorn has taken a liking to sitting together and watching the others play. Copperajah and his new Alcremie have a funny relationship, where Copperajah tosses the little pokemon on his trunk, Alcremie giggling as if to say, ‘again, again!’

It takes two years like that for Bede to come to terms with-with everything. Well, everything he can remember, but processing Olena’s scoldings and Rose’s absence are easier with people like Victor to listen, Mareanie to offer advice, and Gloria and Hop to distract them by going on some fun exploration.

He makes up his mind, he’s had enough waiting. The day he approaches the law enforcement about allowing his foster-father go free is a quiet one. And for once, he’s quiet too--none of the loud bravado, just a simple request. It’s quiet in uptown Wyndon when he forgives Rose.

[sarahscribbles]

Ambush

Another little drabble that came from the prompt “the kids ambushed me.” Just pure fluff!

Friday. It was your favourite day of the week. The atmosphere in the office picked up dramatically as everyone looked forward to going home for the weekend. As the minutes ticked by until you could clock out you glanced at the photo sitting on your desk. You should stood beside Alexei who had an arm draped around your shoulders while your two daughters, Olena and Tiana, stood with cheesy grins spread across their faces.

You smiled softly knowing that very soon you’d have them jumping and climbing all over you happily crying “Mama!” Those girls were your entire life and nothing on earth compared to the happiness you felt when you held their warm little bodies in your arms. You and Alexei had brought two perfect little people into the world.

The thought of seeing them smiling and hearing them laugh got you through the short drive home, and of course your husband who was always ready with a shoulder massage at the end of the week.

When you arrived home and walked in the house, the first thing you heard was squeals of laughter coming from the living room. You smiled to yourself and thought about what an amazing father Alexei was. When you had been pregnant with Olena he had been anxious that he wouldn’t be a good dad, or that your kids would end up hating him. The squeals of laughter from your daughters told a very different story.

“I’m home!” You called out and tossed your keys in the bowl. From down the hall you heard the sound of footsteps coming running towards you and Olena came into sight.

“Mama! Come and see Papa!” The six year old laughed. “He looks so funny!” She grabbed your hand and started pulling you towards the living room.

“What have you done to your poor papa?” You laughed. “You two rascals have him outnumbered!”

Olena continued laughing mischievously. “He looks really pretty now, Mama!”

With that comment you braced yourself for what you were going to find in the living room, and what you saw first was Alexei’s feet sticking out from the edge of the sofa.

“See, Mama. Papa looks pretty now!” Olena said proudly.

You looked down and saw your husband lying on the living room floor while four year old Tiana continued applying sparkly blue eyeshadow on him. He was also sporting rosy red cheeks and bright pink clown like lips, and in his curls were several hair ties. You let out a roar of laughter as Alexei looked up at you.

“The kids ambushed me,” he said, clearly defeated. “I couldn’t fight them any longer.” He dropped his head dramatically back onto the rug, causing your daughters to laugh even louder.

“Papa pretty, Mama!” Tiana said, looking up with a toothy smile.

“I don’t think he’s ever looked prettier,” you said, trying to hold in your laughter at Alexei. Olena and Tiana collapsed into a fit of giggles. “Why don’t you two monkeys go and get cleaned up and we can go out for pizza.” You said as Alexei pulled himself to his feet.

“Papa, you should go like that!” Olena continued to giggle.

You grasped your husbands arm in mock outrage. “Indeed he can’t! All the women would be all over your papa and I’d have to fight them off!” You teased, practically feeling Alexei roll his eyes at you. “Now go!” You shooed them out of the room still giggling.

“Look at my nails.” Alexei said, his accent still thick despite a few years in America. He held up his hands and you saw his nails were painted various shades of pink, red and purple.

Your laugh came out like a snort. “I never had you down as being so fashion conscious,” you teased him.

“They are monkeys.” He repeated your statement, though he was grinning widely.

You shrugged. “They take it after their papa.”

You heard Alexei give a small growl before he pulled you tight against him and started kissing all over your face, the make up transferring to your face and making you both look like clowns.

“Alexei!” You giggled, and tried to squirm out of his arms but he only held you tighter.

“This is payback, my lovely wife.” He laughed, kissing you on the lips until you could feel them stained pink. You gave up fighting and gave in, letting him kiss you until he broke for air.

“I love you, you big idiot.”

[wishmachines]

In this brick building over here lived our math teacher, the Comma. He was a pain in the ass and a loser, his second wife left him right before the Visit, and his daughter had a cataract in one eye—I remember we used to tease her to tears. During the initial panic, he ran in nothing but underwear all the way to the bridge, like his neighbors—ran for four miles nonstop. After that he got a bad case of the plague, which peeled his skin and nails right off. Almost everyone who lived here got the plague. A few died, but mostly old folks, and not all of them either. I, for one, think it wasn’t the plague that did them in but sheer terror.

Arkady & Boris Strugatsky, Roadside Picnic (translated by Olena Bormashenko)

[castielsbeelove]

Daenerys Targaryen x Reader: My Queen

Request: Can u do a fic where reader and daenerys meet up at dragonstone like shes wih olena and has a crush on her and daenerys notices and flirts with her and it turns out to be smutty pls and thx xoxo

Warning: SMUT, cursing probably. Spoilers for new episodes!!!!!

Pairing: Daenerys Targaryen x Reader

A/N: Reader is Olenna’s grandchild and only heir to High Garden.

You looked up at the looming castle as Olenna Tyrell walked with you, sighing. “Couldn’t we get a damn carriage?” She muttered as she walked, hiking her black dress up.

“Would you like me to carry you?” A guard offered but they were cursed at. You didn’t pay much attention, your eyes were occupied by the dragons. One was flying above the ocean searching for food, another perched near the castle. The other one, well you didn’t know where that one was. All you knew was she had three.

When you saw her, you were stunned. She was gorgeous to say the least. Her hair, her eyes, her everything. You could barely speak when she talked to Olenna, and when she finally noticed you everything froze.

“And you are?” She asked, staring right at you. You stopped breathing and looked around, making sure she wasn’t looking at someone near you. “Yes, you.” She sounded amused.

“My name is (Y/N), your grace.” You stuttered from your seat beside Olenna.

“What a pretty name.” She said and turned to Olenna, talking to her about something. You didn’t hear what she was saying, your ears were ringing and your cheeks were red. She called your name pretty! It felt like such a great compliment from someone so utterly perfect. You closed your eyes as little pink flowers grew on your face and in your chest.

The next few weeks were hell. Olenna went back to get her army and ended up dying. Jamie Lannister had her drink poison.

“I am so sorry, (Y/N),” Daenerys said, holding your hand in hers. It was inappropriate for you to be in her room, especially without a guard and definitely not this late at night.

“As if I needed another reason to hate the Lannisters.” You laughed bitterly, looking out her window. “I don’t know what to do. She was my only family. Now I have nowhere to go.” You knew it was inevitable, Daenerys would eventually make you leave. “I don’t know what I’ll do.”

“I understand.” She said quietly, biting her lip. “Just know, you don’t have to leave here. Olenna is dead, but you are not. You’re as much of an ally as she was.”

“An ally? I don’t have an army. Our army has been killed off.” You sighed, looking down to her hands clasping yours. It was strange she hadn’t let go of them.

“That is correct, but you still stand for High Garden. You will get it back.” Daenerys looked into your eyes. You were too busy looking at her fingernails to notice how she was staring. “I promise.”

You shrugged and removed your hands to rub your face. “I just don’t know. I didn’t think this would happen. If I had gone back with her, I’d be dead too.” You realized how easily you could have died and felt a lump form in your throat. “Gods.”

Daenerys tilted your chin up so she could see your eyes. “Don’t cry. We will get justice for her death, (Y/N).”

You looked at her eyes, at her sky blue iris and smiled. “Thank you.” You genuinely believed her. You looked down to her lips and back into her eyes, your heart speeding up. ‘Don’t kiss the queen, you’ll die. She’ll have someone come kill you for that. That’s weird’. You told yourself and stood up. “I’m going to go to bed, your grace.”

“My name is Daenerys.” She teased and stood up, causing you to blush. “Goodnight, (Y/N).”

“Goodnight.” You smiled and left.

A few weeks later, Daenerys went off to battle. You were sick to your stomach with worry. It wasn’t the first battle she’d been in, but it was definitely the most intense. She took Drogon, her largest dragon, and her Dothraki warriors and left. She didn’t even say goodbye to you. For some reason, it hurt more than it should have? What if you never saw her again?

She came back exhausted and angry. You were in your room when she burst through the doors, an annoyed look on her face. Before you could even fully turn to face her she cupped your face in her hot hands and your lips collided. A gasp of surprise was sucked out of your throat as she kissed you.

“Daenerys!” You breathed when she parted from you, her hands still on your face. “Is everything alright?”

“Be quiet.” She snapped, one hand tangling itself in your hair while the other slipped down to the front of your shirt. You swallowed hard as she unlaced it, keeping full eye contact. “I will talk to you after.”

“After?” You were cut off by her lips on yours again. Soon she had your entire shirt unlaced and she slipped it off your shoulders. You inhaled sharply when she pushed you back on your bed. You fell backward, landing on your back. You pushed yourself up and she was on you, kissing every inch of skin she could find. You sighed, closing your eyes. Inside you were screaming, your dreams were coming true.

Her hands roamed down to your pants, tugging them off. Thank the gods you weren’t wearing some complicated dress. You hated dresses. Once she got them off she stood up, unclasping her cloak. She let it drop to the ground along with the heavy silver chain that held it in place, which clattered to the floor.

“Daenerys, wait!” You stopped her, pointing to your door. She left it open.

She snorted, looking back to you. “You presume I care if anyone sees me?” She asked in a sultry voice and you almost came right there. After a moment she smirked. “Alright, but only because you mentioned it.” She walked to the door and shut it, locking it while smiling at you to show she cared for your privacy. You smiled back and she unclasped her shoes, taking them off.

“Why must you wear so much clothing?” You mused as she walked back over to you.

“You take it off, then.” She said and turned around. You grinned and stood up, rushing over to her. You unbuttoned the back of her dress, helping her out of the complicated thing. Once it fell to the ground you almost fell with it. She turned around and you felt dizzy, she was so gorgeous. She smirked at you, seeing your eyes widen. “You can touch me, I won’t call my guards.” She whispered and something about the sentence made you incredibly wet. Your knees went weak and you stepped closer, licking your lips. Your fingers trailed along her soft skin lit by candlelight, sighing. She was beautiful, absolutely beautiful. You would die for this woman. You cupped her breasts, running your fingers over her nipples. She closed her eyes and you bit your lip. You’d been with a few women before but this was so different. She wasn’t just a woman, she was Daenerys Targaryen.

With a smile, she pushed you back onto the bed. You giggled and sat up as she crawled between your legs, kissing your knees and thighs. When those kisses reached between your legs you cried out, her tongue pleasing you to no end. “Yes!” You moaned and fell back, running your fingers through her hair. She continued her routine until you came, your hands fists in her hair. You groaned and bucked your hips as you orgasmed, cum leaking out from your cunt and onto the bed.

Daenerys sat up quickly after that and pinned you to the bed, straddling your waist. “I hope you can hold your breath long.” She warned before crawling over you, sitting on your face. You inhaled sharply through your nose at that, surprised by her boldness. You got to work though, licking and sucking until she came on your face. Her moans filled the air, beautiful moans that were more musical than any instrument you’d ever heard. You licked it all away and she got off you, panting. Her head hit your pillow and she sighed loudly, nuzzling into your sheets. “(Y/N), come here.” She sighed into your sheets and you happily obliged, crawling over to cuddle with her.

After a while she explained what happened, Drogon had gotten injured, Jon had touched her dragon, then left to go to the north. She planned on leaving soon to help him, she claimed she had a feeling he’d need it. It was all very hard for her, especially with Drogon.

“I’m so sorry.” You said as you brushed her hair with your fingers. “It’ll get better soon, I promise. Jon will convince Cersei, then you’ll have more time to plan. You will have the throne, my queen, I promise it. I’ll kill everyone I have to to see you on that throne.”

She turned and kissed you deeply, lovingly. “And you will be beside me, every step of the way.

“Yes, my queen. I swear to it.”

[the-jam-to-the-unicorn]

"Thank you for being mine." Ze: моя

I hope you enjoy it, anon! 🤗

"And you're sure?"

Volodymyr closed the last buttons of his shirt as he looked at Olena through the mirror. She was lying sideways on his bed, her bare legs covered and wearing his hoodie, her head resting on one hand and a pencil tucked behind her ear. Lost in thought, Olena nibbled at her lower lip, her forehead slightly furrowed in concentration, and without realising it, she kept clicking the pen in her hand. Her eyes were fixed on the book in front of her, a notepad and flashcards beside it. Blinking, Olena looked up from the book, then smiled as she caught his gaze.

"Yes, absolutely," Olena replied and watched as Volodymyr put the finishing touches to his outfit, her gaze perhaps lingering on his butt for a few seconds.

Volodymyr tucked a stubborn corner of the shirt back into his trousers, then smoothed the fabric before running his fingers through his hair a few times until all the strands were the way he wanted them. And because Volodymyr had no idea where he had put his comb, he had been looking for it for two days.

"And I really can't convince you?" Volodymyr asked again, turning to Olena.

With a smirk, he noticed that she quickly raised her eyes and blushed slightly. Volodymyr found it absolutely adorable that Olena blushed at the sight of his clothed butt, especially when he thought of what they had done just half an hour ago. Then again, absolutely everything Olena did was adorable.

"I can undress again and put on something new if you don't like my clothes," Volodymyr said teasingly, raising an eyebrow coquettishly. 

"Let's see ..." Olena replied playfully and motioned for him to turn around, which he did.

"Unfortunately, there's no need for you to change your clothes again. You look very chic. And as always, you're incredibly handsome," she commented, and he grinned. "And no, you can't."

Pouting playfully, Volodymyr walked over to his bed and dropped onto the mattress next to Olena as she sat up. Volodymyr took her hand lovingly and began to play with Olena's fingers, intertwining them with his own before stroking them gently.

"But the evening will be terribly boring without you," Volodymyr whined, and Olena's smile widened a little.

"I'm sure you'll have a lot of fun without me," she replied, placing her free hand on his cheek. "I'd just be a nuisance. And I'd be the only girl. Have a nice evening with the boys, and next time, I'll come with you."

Volodymyr pushed his lower lip out a little more, and Olena leaned over and kissed him gently on the cheek. Playfully reluctant, he nodded slowly. She was indeed right. Lenny had to work, Irina was in bed with the flu and the other girls had also cancelled. 

"But I'd have a much nicer evening and more fun if I wasn't alone," Volodymyr grumbled in a last attempt to convince Olena, and she giggled when she saw his puppy dog eyes.

"You can hardly talk about being alone with your big group," Olena laughed, and Volodymyr sighed. "And I'm sure you'll have more fun without me."

"But I'm going to miss you terribly all evening," he replied with a smile and leaned towards her.

"Denys, Sasha and the others will distract you so much that you won't think about me for a second," Olena said with a twinkle in her eye.

"That is absolutely not possible. I think about you all the time," Volodymyr replied, and before she could say anything back, he kissed Olena. "I'll miss you so much, I might just have to sneak back home early," he teased with a mischievous grin between two kisses.

She smiled against his lips and looked at Volodymyr in love as they broke the kiss.

"I still feel guilty about leaving you here alone," he said softly, his eyes conveying a sense of concern, and Olena gently stroked a strand of hair from his forehead.

"There's no need for that," she reassured him, her hand gently squeezing his. "I'm going to continue working on my term paper, and I still have to write the new draft of the sketch. And besides, your Mama is coming home later tonight, and I'm sure she'll be happy if I keep her company instead of her sitting alone in the living room. And I'm looking forward to having some time to myself. As much as I like going out with you and the others, it's been a bit much lately."

"All right," Volodymyr replied quietly, returning her smile before giving Olena a tender kiss. "You would tell me if it bothered you that I was going out without you, wouldn't you?"

"I would," she confirmed, sliding a little closer to Volodymyr so that he could wrap his arms around her middle. "But as you know, I'm happiest when I'm alone or with you," Olena continued, his heart beating faster as he saw the love in her eyes, a subtle hint of longing and affection in her voice. "Or with the girls," she added with a gentle laugh, which Volodymyr joined. "And now off you go, or you'll be late. The cinema won't wait for you."

"But only if I get a kiss goodbye," he said flirtatiously, wiggling his eyebrows, which made Olena giggle.

Then she kissed him sweetly, and Volodymyr kissed her back. When Olena tried to break the kiss, he pulled her close again.

"And another kiss," Volodymyr said with a smile and kissed Olena again. "And one more."

Another kiss.

"And another kiss."

She laughed against his lips and jokingly tried to push him away, but Volodymyr pulled Olena tightly into his arms before placing his hands on her cheeks and holding Olena in place as he planted a big, passionate kiss on her lips, humming with pleasure. The smile on Olena's face when they looked at each other again made her eyes light up.

"I love you," Volodymyr said, stroking her cheeks with his thumbs.

"I love you too."

Olena gave him one last, very affectionate kiss, then he stood up and picked up his jacket.

"See you later," Volodymyr said to her as he blew Olena a kiss and then left the room.

"Bye!" she called after Volodymyr and was just about to make herself comfortable again when her eyes slid across his desk and she spotted something on it. "Vova! Your wallet!"

Hurried footsteps sounded in the corridor before Volodymyr came through the door he had just left ajar.

"I haven't forgotten it. I just wanted to see if you were paying attention," he jokingly justified himself, quickly slipping the wallet into his jacket pocket.

"Uh-huh," Olena replied, raising an eyebrow in amusement.

Volodymyr blew her another kiss and disappeared back into the corridor. But as soon as he was out of the room, Olena saw the next thing he had forgotten. It was only a moment before she heard Volodymyr's footsteps in the corridor again. Olena was already holding out the key that had been lying next to his bed when he poked his head through the door again.

"Another test to see if I'm paying attention?" she asked amusedly as Volodymyr hurried over to her.

"No, I forgot it this time. But my forgetfulness is a very charming quality of mine that you love very much," he replied just as jokingly, and as Volodymyr was about to reach for the key, Olena pulled it away.

She pursed her lips, and he kissed her before Olena handed him his keys.

"But now I have everything," Volodymyr said but suddenly stopped. "No, wait, one more thing is missing ..." he continued, planting a kiss on her cheek.

With a smug grin, Volodymyr hurried out of the room. Smiling, Olena made herself comfortable on his bed again as she finally heard the front door slam shut. 

It was just after two in the morning when Volodymyr quietly unlocked the front door and crept into the apartment. He was just about to put his things down quietly when Volodymyr saw a light under the crack of the living room door. As he entered, his mother looked up from the shirt she was sewing and gave him a friendly smile.

"You're home early, Volodenka," she said as Volodymyr returned her smile and went over to Rimma to give her a kiss on the cheek in greeting. "Lena said you wouldn't be home until morning. Has something happened?" she asked, moving the box of sewing supplies next to her on the sofa so that Volodymyr could sit down.

Then she looked down at the shirt in her hands and resumed sewing.

"No, I was just tired and wanted to go home. And when the boys wanted to go to the next disco, I took the opportunity to say goodbye."

Rimma nodded as Volodymyr watched her mend a hole in one of his shirts. 

"There's no place like home," Rimma said, smiling briefly at him.

"And why are you still awake, Mama?"

"You know, Volodenka, I can't sleep when you're out at night. And I finally wanted to do the sewing that's been lying around for weeks," she explained to Volodymyr, pointing to a pile of shirts lying next to her on the sofa. "Your father will soon have nothing else to wear, and I've mended your shirts too."

"That's very kind, Mama, but I could have done it myself," Volodymyr said with a slight smile.

Rimma looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

"If I wait for that, you'll take your next exams naked," she replied dryly and knotted the thread before cutting off the remains. "And I certainly won't let Lena sew your shirts and trousers just because you're too lazy to pick up a needle," Rimma added reproachfully, giving him a scolding look. "It's bad enough that the poor girl does your laundry. You're perfectly capable of washing your own bedclothes."

"Thank you. And you're right," Volodymyr murmured, his cheeks feeling warm.

He leaned over to his mother and gave her a conciliatory kiss on the cheek, which made Rimma smile.

"Olena's gone to bed, by the way. I put your pyjamas in the bathroom," she continued, and Volodymyr nodded gratefully. 

"Did you have a nice evening?" he asked as his mother folded his shirt.

Meanwhile, Volodymyr hurried to clear up her sewing supplies.

"Oh yes!" she said enthusiastically, smiling happily. "Oh, she's such a lovely girl! When I came home, she had already cooked dinner for us. And then she kept me company all evening. But when she fell asleep on the sofa, I sent her to bed. She wanted to wait for you," Rimma said, smiling at him.

Then she handed Volodymyr the clothes before picking up the box with her sewing supplies and getting up. Volodymyr followed his mother to the large cupboard in the living room where Rimma stored the sewing supplies.

"By the way, if you ever think about her moving in with us... you have my blessing. She's an excellent cook and her mother taught her well how to run a household," she remarked suddenly, and Volodymyr laughed uncertainly.

"I'll remember that ..." he said evasively.

"Don't look like that, Volodymyr. You have to let your old mother at least occasionally think about it. After all, neither your father and I nor the two of you are getting any younger, and, as far as I know, you have always wanted lots of children. Besides, you've been a couple for quite some time now," Rimma explained matter-of-factly, taking the clothes from him. "So it's only logical that I'm wondering what the future holds for you two."

His mother turned and walked into the bedroom, and for a moment, Volodymyr stood looking after her, perplexed. He hadn't expected to have this conversation now, but since his mother had brought it up ... . Volodymyr hesitantly followed her, standing indecisively and nervously by the door as she put the clothes away in the wardrobe.

"Mama ... can I ask you something ..." he began haltingly.

With raised eyebrows, Rimma turned to Volodymyr and looked at him, waiting.

"Sure. What's on your mind?"

Volodymyr faltered. There was something that had been occupying his mind for a few months. Was now a good time ...? Maybe it was the alcohol that gave Volodymyr the courage he needed, or maybe it was just love. Either way, he gathered his courage and cleared his throat slightly as Volodymyr searched for the right words.

"What ..." he began slowly, swallowing, his heart suddenly beating fast as his hands became sweaty. "What would you think if ..." Volodymyr continued but stopped short. "Well ... if ... um ... if I wanted to ... wanted to marry Len? ... What would you say?"

There was a moment of silence while his mother looked at him, then frowned a little.

"It depends."

"On what?"

"Is Olena the love of your life?"

Without a moment's hesitation, Volodymyr nodded, the answer so clear in his mind that he didn't even need to think about it. A happy smile appeared on his face as butterflies fluttered in his stomach.

"And do you want to spend the rest of your life with her?"

"Yes," Volodymyr said immediately, nodding affirmatively. "I can't imagine loving another person as much as I love Len. Or loving anyone else at all," he added quietly, and Rimma's smile softened.

"Well, she's a very sweet, decent and hard-working girl. Very smart, incredibly pretty. She's a good person, and I'm sure she'll make a fantastic mother one day. And when I see the way she looks at you, I know she loves you with all her heart. And that's all a mother can ask for in a daughter-in-law for her son.

His mother had come over to him as she spoke and now put a hand on his cheek. Volodymyr smiled gratefully and felt a lump form in his throat from sheer emotion.

"Is there something I should know, Volodenka?" Rimma asked, raising an eyebrow.

"No! No, no. I ... only ask hypothetically. I'm not planning on proposing to her any time soon. I think we'll take our time," Volodymyr said hastily, shaking his head.

"Very reasonable," his mother agreed, smiling. "But when the time comes - you have my blessing for that too."

As quietly as possible, Volodymyr finally slipped into his room. The room was lit only by the moonlight streaming through the window. Olena had turned her back to the door. He saw the blanket rise and fall steadily, and for a moment, Volodymyr listened to her breathing as she slept soundly. His heart grew light, and Volodymyr had to smile. The tingling in his body intensified as he thought that, with a bit of luck, this could be his future. Volodymyr tiptoed over to the bed and carefully sat down on it. He placed his slippers next to Olena's and slowly crawled under the blanket. But the mattress gave way under his weight and moved so much that Olena began to grumble. Then she sighed and turned her head in his direction in confusion, her eyes still closed. 

"Vova?" Olena mumbled sleepily, so quiet that the rustling of the blanket was almost louder.

Volodymyr quickly lay down beside her and cuddled up to Olena. He carefully put an arm around her waist and found Olena's hand under the blanket. She smiled slightly and sighed happily as Volodymyr intertwined his fingers with hers. Then Olena pulled his arm tighter around her waist. Smiling, Volodymyr leaned over and kissed Olena tenderly on the cheek.

"Hey. Go back to sleep," he whispered, kissing Olena's cheek again.

She smiled as Volodymyr kissed her, and when he eventually stopped, Olena turned to face him. Volodymyr wrapped his arms tightly around her as Olena snuggled close to his body. He kissed her gently on the hair, and Olena wrapped her arms around Volodymyr's middle to snuggle even closer to him. Her face was almost completely buried in the nape of his neck, and Volodymyr could feel Olena's warm breath on his skin. He tangled her legs together and ran a hand lovingly down her back.

"Hey ..." Olena greeted him, and Volodymyr saw her lift her head drowsily and open her eyes before Olena yawned widely.

Her eyelids were heavy, her cheeks slightly flushed, and her hair dishevelled. Volodymyr smiled with deep affection. Olena looked simply enchanting at that moment. Then, his smile became apologetic.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," Volodymyr said ruefully, but she shook her head slightly.

"It's all right. You're back already," Olena said after looking at the alarm clock.

"I wanted to come home. And to you," he whispered, full of love, pulling Olena closer into his arms. "I missed my girl," Volodymyr breathed, stroking her cheek and then her hair.

Olena's eyes lit up. Her heart began to beat wildly, and a blissful giggle escaped her before she bit her lower lip and beamed at him. 

"Did you have a nice evening?" Olena asked, her voice a little too high as she ran her fingertips down Volodymyr's upper arm.

He could feel himself getting goosebumps. Volodymyr hummed in agreement.

"It was very nice. We all had a great time. Greetings from the boys," he replied, smiling. "And I missed you terribly," Volodymyr whispered, and Olena's whole body tingled, even more so when he looked at her in love. "And you? How was your evening?"

"I did everything I wanted to do for my term paper. I'm halfway through the script for the sketch, and I had a really nice evening with your Mama. She showed me a new embroidery pattern and helped me with one my Mama taught me the other day. And old episodes of KVN were on TV, and we watched them on the side," Olena said, smiling.

"I'm glad you had a nice evening too."

She stretched a little and planted a soft kiss on Volodymyr's lips, which he returned.

"Now that you're back, it's a perfect evening," Olena whispered, kissing Volodymyr again.

Then she snuggled back against his body and yawned as tiredness suddenly returned. Volodymyr couldn't hold back a yawn either, as his eyelids began to get heavy. As Volodymyr fought against it and continued to stroke Olena's back, he felt her relax and slowly fall asleep again.

"Vova?" Volodymyr suddenly heard her whisper and looked at Olena.

"Yes, my darling?" Volodymyr asked lovingly, and she smiled.

"Can you say the other one again?"

"You mean 'my girl'?"

Olena nodded, and he placed a deep kiss on her hair.

"My girl," Volodymyr whispered then, and although he couldn't see Olena, Volodymyr could feel her smile of joy.

"Again," Olena said, the love clearly audible in her voice.

"My girl," Volodymyr repeated, also putting all his love into each letter.

A gentle nudge to his side followed.

"My girl," Volodymyr continued, and then there was silence.

"Can you say it again?" he heard Olena ask once more, her voice heavy with weariness.

"My girl," Volodymyr replied, and a heartbeat passed before he continued. "Thank you for being mine."

Olena felt her heart almost bursting with love at that moment. She lifted her head and opened her eyes once more before looking at Volodymyr speechlessly for a moment. Even though his sentence was so simple, it touched her soul so deeply. 

"Thank you for being mine too," Olena breathed, and Volodymyr's heart became light and heavy with love at the same time. "And for loving me so much and making me happy."

"The simplest and most beautiful thing in the world," he replied. "My girl," Volodymyr added just before he kissed Olena.

Volodymyr felt her lips curl into a smile before Olena returned his intimate kiss with devotion. Then she slowly fell back asleep in his arms while Volodymyr's eyes remained on her, studying Olena and wondering how he could be so lucky. Meanwhile, Volodymyr continued to caress her back, whispering the words over and over again so that they would linger in Olena's dreams.

My girl.

Mine. 

And in his mind, Volodymyr added something else that he was not yet brave enough to say out loud. Not now, not today. One day, some day.

My girl.

My future wife.

Mine.

[xdepthsofwinterx]

Echoes in the Dark - 16

     ~ Belief, faith and                            ~*~                         Pre!SoU ~     the big inbetween: Pt.1

                                             Trigger Warning: N/A

Watching the sand billow from beneath the wheels, Dhana felt another pang of sadness. Despite the harsh environment, seedy economy and cut-throat people - the teen was going to miss Calimshan. She’d come to know the underground somewhat, and became accustomed to the faces worn by merchants and beggars alike. It had character, and in a sense, was true to its nature. Mostly superficial, sometimes ruthless, and utterly frivolous. 

But it was home. 

The caravan rocked, plates rattling within the cupboard. Upon her seat, staring out across the vastness of the desert, Dhana wondered just what awaited her. Vollo spoke of the towering trees of the Wealdath, Amn’s bustling markets and towering canopies, and Candlekeep with all those books! They would be following The Coastal Way, so she would see if from the road, right?! 

The teen tore herself away from the window to glance about for her map. Spotting her journal - a battered linen wrapped thing that dwarfed her head - the mageling reached across and plucked ageing parchment from between its pages. 

A small snort caused her to pause however, a small smile forming. 

From the corner of her vision she spied her new tutor. Under the pretense of reading, the dwarf had fallen into a peaceful slumber. Even now he resonated a grandfatherly kindness. She would have to be mindful not to wake him, Master Drogan had been without sleep for near two days. 

Dhana’s ears reddened ever so slightly. 

‘Master Drogan…it sounds awfully official. Hmph, I…almost like it.’ 

A rebellious thought indeed. And if his words be true - which Dhana was beginning to assume were most likely - he was head of an academy. The teen puffed with pride as silently as she could, biting her lip to contain the almost childish glee. 

‘Seriously, Ma would tease me for regressing back into a five year old. Heh…hmm…’ 

And so in lay the heaviest weight of all. 

Olena had seen her off with her usual quiet, caring demeanor. A satchel of food, her predictions for the near future and a wish of good fortune from their Lady. It had been Dhana who had shed the first few tears, wrapping the seer in a bear hug. She had almost given Olena a bloody nose from her staff. 

But her mother had merely smiled sadly.

- “You act like this is a goodbye, child.” 

Pulling away the teen had scrubbed at her eyes, wishing virulently for the ground to swallow her up. Her mother took her face between soft palms and brought her close. 

“I know this isn’t goodbye. Not yet.” 

“That’s not helping the tears, Ma.” Olena persisted regardless. 

“And whatever adversities await, I know you volt give in.” 

Dhana spluttered, “D-Did you just-?!” 

“Wonders never cease.” Her mother pressed her lips to Dhana’s forehead before releasing her. “Now, go and make your mark upon the world dear. I expect to see many a tale in my dreams.” -

Dhana would be lying if she said she wasn’t terrified of what was to come. But she believed in her mother’s word, and perhaps...even in herself. And as she looked across at her slumbering companion, she realised that in that moment her belief even stretched to the Divine. 

…because Tymora was certainly smiling.

[the-jam-to-the-unicorn]

Astrology anon here! So i will write some things about what i discovered from Vova chart(also can do Olenas later or Andriy, can’t tell anything about Maks because i can’t find his birth date anywhere😞) I assumed y’all want to know about sexual stuff but i can write about general things later😏

Well, this man definitely likes to be more dominant. Not in BDSM way but he likes to lead and give pleasure. He is really passionate and playful. . He is literally the type of person who would hang a mirror above his bed and i’m not even kidding. It turns him on knowing that he makes his partner feel good so he will try real hard to make his partner know he is the best, so moaning(might be really loud himself) back scratching, hair pulling, etc are his thing.But in general he needs there to be some kind of romantic subtext during the act, foreplay is also very important here. He needs to feel wanted and desired first.

Tbh, he can be animalistic sometimes. Can be jealous and possessive sometimes but in a secretive way. Might be into some imprinting shit so cuming on his partner, leaving hickeys or even biting gets him going. I think he likes positions like doggy style or anything with his partners back turned to him. He may be into some kind of role playing kink because sex is like a show for him. Also, his chart screams having huge praise kink. I think he really likes dirty talk or just verbal teasing and seduction and in general he prefers to communicate during sex and he is a huge tease himself. I can see him being into car sex or sex in any sort of transportation. Also, yes, anon, you were right this man DOES enjoy oral sex. Giving or receiving it doesn’t matter. And i know Ze in a pro in fingering because anything with hands turns him on(handjobs, fingering, handcuffs, or any sort of hand restriction or even just holding hands during sex) I don’t see him being into some rough or weird shit but he can like some restriction on hands and may like giving orders. Also, he can have really sensitive spine and collarbones or spine and collarbones turn him on.There is some public sex loving and he is the type who would like to get caught fucking. He might enjoy having sex right after the argument or just angry sex 🫣

Let me know if y’all want to know just genereal stuff about him or Olena or Andriy. 🤗

Thanks for sending it in, astrology anon! 😄

That was for sure an interesting read. 😁

I would love some general stuff about them and their relationship. 🤗 Or about just Olena and Andriy. All options sound good. 😄 Whatever you feel like!

[the-jam-to-the-unicorn]

The beginning with Lenny and Irina was so awesome! Loved to see Volena through their perspective. And Olena eating air because she is lusting after Vova 😂 Also them teasing Olena about her bikini 😂

"Remember those incredibly tiny grey gym shorts?!" Are we talking about the Ze Kubiki shorts? 😁

And poor Vova still being hot for his wife 😉

"I brought you some sea," he said, leaning down so close that their noses almost touched. "You're so hot, you need something to cool you down," Volodymyr whispered, hoping Irina and Lenny couldn't hear him. Very smooth Vova 😏

"I've been having a lot of fun with myself these past few days," OLENA! 😏😏😏😏😏😏���😏

"I absolutely have to see this. Maybe you can give me a little demonstration," Volodymyr replied, seeing the desire in Olena's eyes.

"Only if you join in."

"There's nothing I'd rather do." 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

And the end with Vova drifting off to sleep with Olena in his arms. So cute 🥺

Yes, I meant the Kubiki shorts! 😄

Thank you so much for your comment, anon! 🥹❤️🫶🥰

[the-jam-to-the-unicorn]

New Year Timing??👀🫢

While Volodymyr kissed her neck, his hand slowly stroked along her side. He heard Olena gasp slightly as he kissed the particularly sensitive spot on her neck. His hand reached the hem of her top, and he let it slide under the fabric before fondling her skin and moving it back up. Meanwhile, he kissed her again on the lips, and Olena passionately returned the kiss. Her hands caressed his neck, and a soft moan escaped Volodymyr as they kissed. His fingertips touched her breasts, and Volodymyr felt Olena press herself tighter against him. A loud, demanding knock on the door snapped them out of the moment, and they both flinched. Volodymyr broke off the kiss, and they both looked to the door in confusion. "Mama! Papa!" they heard it shouting from outside. With a frustrated groan, Volodymyr let his head hang and buried it in Olena's neck. "I can't believe it …" muttered Volodymyr, and Olena looked at him pityingly for a moment before looking at the door again. "Just a minute, darling!" she called out loud enough for Kyrylo to hear her. "You've got to be kidding me. God has conspired against us. Obviously. And fate. Karma! You would think that precisely because of karma, we would be undisturbed, but no. Apparently, everyone just objects to me having sex with my wife …" Volodymyr began sullenly. Suddenly he felt Olena's body vibrating under him, and he looked up at his wife in confusion. She bit her lip, and half covered her mouth with her hand while trying to hold back a laugh. She had closed her eyes, but Volodymyr could still see the tears of laughter in the corners of her eyes. Olena opened her eyes when he stopped talking. However, when she saw the sullen and, at the same time, confused expression on her husband's face, she all of a sudden burst out laughing. She quickly pressed her lips together again, but her whole body was shaken with laughter. "The woman is laughing! She's laughing!" Volodymyr indignantly shook his head and looked at Olena. This only made Olena laugh harder, and she couldn't hold it back this time. "Sorry," she brought out, panting as a tear of laughter ran down her cheek. "Your son has miserable timing, and you're laughing," he teased her further, and Olena raised her eyebrows. "My son?! Now it's suddenly my son?!" "Yes!" "Our son got that bad timing from you, my love." Volodymyr looked at her with feigned indignation and teasingly poked her in the side, after which Olena's laughed and let out a sharp scream. "Why is Mama screaming?! What's wrong?" they heard Kyrylo shout again. "Everything is alright!" they replied together, and Olena wiped the tears of laughter from her cheek. "Mama! Papa! Can you come?! I don't want to be alone!" Kyrylo shouted back and knocked again. "We'll be there in a minute!" Volodymyr yelled, and Olena sighed before patting him on the shoulder jokingly. "Well then, get off me, Papa. Parental duties are calling." "That's easy for you to say. You won't be in pain tomorrow," Volodymyr remarked as he straightened up so Olena could sit up. "Aw, my poor sweetheart," she joked, stroking his cheek. Volodymyr briefly stuck his tongue out at her, making Olena laugh again. "I'll go see our son then," he finally said with a sigh and stood up. Olena raised an eyebrow in response and shook her head. "I think I should go see him. Unless you want to have a special talk with him today and explain things to him …" she said, looking down into his lap for a moment. Volodymyr followed her gaze and then nodded slowly. "Right. I'll go take a cold shower, you go see Kyrylo?" In response, Olena swung her legs out of bed, stood up and kissed him on the cheek. "Have fun in the shower," she said teasingly, and Volodymyr gave her a dirty look. "You're not funny." "You're right. I'm hilarious.

Answer to the WIP Game.