#although coming on here right after finishing and still sniffling

[beenbaanbuun]

tears - opposites attract

this is kind of short but i was thinking about jongho and i had to write something about him. i’m working on requests and i should be finished with a few of them soon 🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️

——————————————————————————

mingi…

that bastard has stolen your werewolf from you. it’s just for today and hongjoong promised seonghwa that the two of them—and probably mingi as well—would be back in time for dinner. he promised he’d let san know to make dinner as usual, but as of yet he hasn’t stepped out of his greenhouse once. something about being on the ‘precipice of a breakthrough!’ is what he told you that morning when he slipped out of bed far earlier than you or hongjoong, although a breakthrough of what, you’re unsure.

the first part of the morning was spent with san, trailing him around the house as he tidied and cleaned. you’d asked him what he’d be doing on his day off the following week; he told you he didn’t know but it’s almost certain that he wouldn’t be going home. he mentioned the price of train tickets being too expensive, but with the way he bowed his head to hide his expression, you could tell there was something more going on. you didn’t push, just like you wouldn’t want san to push. instead you stand there in a sad silence as san dusts the mantle piece in the living room.

“did you know this house is haunted?” you break the silence as you cast your gaze across the rug in the centre of the room. you can almost hear the crying that comes hand in hand with your ghost, the sound becoming almost comforting the more you hear it. it sounds strange to say that; to admit that you take comfort from someone else’s misery, but it’s the truth. the sound of his quiet sniffles has become synonymous with friendship and love and affection.

san turns to you with an eyebrow raised.

“well i’d have to assume so,” he takes a moment to look around the room, gesturing to all the antiquities and grandiose, “all this shit is bound to carry a few spirits, right?” the dust cloth he carries brushes past your arm as he takes it back to the mantle; you brush the filthy residue away with a grumble. “i don’t really care as long as they don’t come into my room. i’m far too tired to be dealing with ghosts whenever i try to sleep.”

you giggle at the image of the tearful man standing at the foot of san’s bed, staring at the butler with wet eyes and a frown. if san could see him, you have no doubt he’d take pity on the poor creature. as it stands, the idea is simply that; an idea.

“he might be,” you shrug, “but you wouldn’t know. the further he gets from his pelt, the less visible he becomes.”

the thought breaks your heart a little now that you dwell on it. he could be anywhere at any time and you just wouldn’t know it; does he ever feel ignored? or trapped? to have the only love you’ve ever received confined to a single room must be tough. it’s like an ultimatum that neither of you had a say in. a cruel trick from the universe to punish him for his spirit remaining here so long after his death. perhaps he yearns to move on, to find reprieve from the loneliness that haunts the walls of this house just as he does. the very house that has become your freedom must feel like a prison for him.

you wonder for a moment how long he’s been dead for, but the thought seems to manifest itself as a lump in your throat. he told you in his own words that he’d never known love before, just as hongjoong said the rug had been a family heirloom. you dread to think how many generations it has been passed through, each of them bringing even more loneliness and sorrow to the bear.

it makes sense now, why he cries. at first you figured it might be pain, that perhaps he still feels the weapon that led to his death lodged in his heart. in a way you suppose it is pain, and you have no doubt that it’s in his heart, but just not in the way you expected.

with a sigh, you leave the butler’s side to take a seat on the rug. you want to be close to him right now, for your own benefit as much as his. even though you can’t see him right know, you know he’s right there beside you. the shiver that runs up your arm is enough to confirm that fact. you don’t wipe it away or hide from in, instead basking in that icy cold feeling that makes your goosebumps blossom like the flowers in seonghwa’s greenhouse. you hope he can see them and know that even when he can’t be seen, he can still be felt.

you hope he knows you could never ignore him.

[loregoddess]

finally, after ten years of it being out, got a chance to watch The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, and despite crying through the last half, it really is one of the most beautiful animated films in existence

[rafeandonlyrafe]

hormonal hunch

words: 800

warnings: pregnancy, fluff, established relationship

rafe isn't sure what to do at first. he thought you were sleeping, so he was extra quiet when walking around the room, undressing from the day and changing into pajamas, which were actually just basketball shorts and an old tee.

he was about to climb into bed when he noticed that although your face was pressed into the pillow, your shoulders were shaking slightly, soft noises coming from you.

“baby?” rafe asks softly.

you don't respond, but he hears your sniffles, clearly trying to quiet yourself and calm down.

“oh, baby.” rafe says softly, climbing quickly into bed and wrapping his arms around you, holding you tight. “what's wrong?”

“i-i don't know.” you sob louder, not trying to keep it private anymore.

“you don't know? what happened? did someone do something?” rafe can feel his heartbeat getting quicker, waiting to find out what he needs to do to make you happy again, to get that smile that he loves so much back on your face.

“i just-” you turn over and rafes heart breaks, your eyes red and tears falling down your cheeks. “i just started crying and i feel so bad and i don't know.”

“that's okay.” rafe says, pulling you into his chest. “sometimes you just need to cry.”

“you never just need to cry!” you argue back. 

“yes i do, baby.” rafe presses a kiss to the top of your head. “i just don't let you see it because i need to be strong for you.”

“oh, that just makes me wanna cry more!” you whine, tears falling harder.

“okay, okay, shh.” rafe begins to rock back and forth, letting you cry and leave tear marks and snot on his shirt until you eventually slow down and stop, breathing returning to normal.

“baby?” rafe whispers, thinking you might be asleep, but you pick your head up, a sheepish look on your face.

“i-im sorry.” you quickly wipe your face. “i just um… i just um couldn't stop crying.”

“it happens, okay?” rafe tugs you back in close, needing to feel you against him, still needing to cradle you in his arms. “as long as nothing happened…”

“no, no.” you shake your head. “just been feeling weird lately. probably hormones or something.”

“yeah… hormones.”

rafe minds reels and as the days go by, he keeps a close eye on you, even more than normal. 

he monitors everything from your mood swings, which have suddenly increased, to everything you eat, including weird concoctions he's never seen you put together before.

“can i… can i talk to you honey?” rafe asks one night.

“mhm.” you nod, sitting down on the bed, figuring you can finish your skincare and the last step in your nighttime routine after whatever rafe has to say.

“i… i really think you might be pregnant.”

your eyes widen, not expecting those words to come out of his mouth as he quickly continues. “with the mood swings, the occasional sickness, i just… i really think it could explain some things.”

“i… i haven't gotten my period.” you suddenly realize, placing a hand on your stomach.

“i know.” rafe grins softly. he's always been able to easily keep track just based on how you behave. 

“so-” he pulls something out of the bedside table drawer and hands it to you. “i thought you should take a pregnancy test. ill be right here with you and then… we can decide.”

“decide what?” you look up in confusion, before quickly realizing. “oh.”

“i-” rafe feels foolish for a moment, nervous and unlike his normal self, but he looks at you, glowing you, and he knows what to do. “i want to keep it. i love our life together. i love you. i want a baby with you.”

“you do?” you question, tears instantly welling up in your eyes. 

“of course. you'd be the best mom. there's no one else id want to do this with other than you. i know we are young and aren't married yet but… i really want this.”

“i do to.” you launch yourself across the bed, hugging rafe tightly.

“i love you.” you whisper to him, burying your head in his neck as a couple tears of pure happiness slip out.

“please.” rafe pulls you away. “please go and take the test, i need to know.”

“oh my god, yeah.” you take the test into the bathroom, peeing on the stick before placing it on the counter to wait.

“five minutes.” rafe is just as nervous waiting as you are, he just displays it differently. you sit down on the bed, staring at nothing, while he paces the room, needing to move, glancing constantly at the bathroom and the clock.

“should be time.” rafe says, frowning when you jolt at his words, so lost in your own head.

“yeah, yeah.” you nod, letting rafe grip your hand tightly, knowing he needs the physical connection as you stand and walk into the bathroom.

“you look.” you urge rafe.

rafe nods, then gulps, then turns the stick over to reveal two blue lines. you can tell everything by his reaction, the way his eyes light up as he turns to you.

“oh my god, we're pregnant!” you whisper-scream, wrapping your arms around rafes shoulders as he lifts you, instantly carrying you back to bed.

sfw taglist: @winterrrnight @bejeweledreverie @ladyinbl00d @ethanthequeefqueen

[hongcherry]

7+ M+ the little bird+ jk

oh you want to feel THE PAINNNNN 😭 we love angst here, so i got youuuuuu. tysm for sending in an ask! 💖 hope you like it!

Pairing: Jungkook x Reader G/AUs: Angst, established relationship, non-idol au TWs: None but ofc lmk <3 WC: 763

Prompt: “i didn’t do it. please, you have to believe me!” + distrust + the bedside of someone who doesn’t want you there

Build a fic! ✨

bts masterlist | main masterlist

this blog is 18+. minors do not interact. plz & ty! (ageless/minors/blanks blogs will be blocked)

Whoever said silence couldn’t be deadly was a liar.

Jungkook stares at you with accusation, round eyes now narrow. It makes your breath catch in your throat.

“I didn’t do it. Please, you have to believe me!” you exclaim.

Jungkook points down to the phone he had thrown on the bed.

“How can I when you’re the only one who has access to it?” he says.

Your eyes drift back to the phone. On the screen is a YouTube video of his now-released song. You recall how Jungkook was still working on it, trying to build his portfolio so he could pursue his dream job as an artist.

“I—I don’t know,” you meekly reply, tears pricking your eyes.

Jungkook snatches his phone and starts tapping his screen. You stand idly, hands fidgeting with each other as you try to think of what to say. You’ve never seen him so upset before.

“Jungko—“

“It’s fucking everywhere,” he huffs. “You must have had a party posting this on all these different platforms. Are you happy now?”

He finally looks up from his device. He’s furious, but if you look closely, you can see the hurt from betrayal too.

“Please, Kook,” you plead. “I didn’t do that. I don’t know how it got released. Believe me!”

“I want to—“

“Then do!” you almost shout desperately.

He shakes his head, more hair falling into his face. He stuffs his phone in his pocket and raises his arms to run his hands through his hair in frustration.

“I can’t!” he groans and spins to look away from you.

You reach out to touch his arm, but he turns and backs away. He looks at you in a way that makes you feel small.

“You don’t trust me?” you ask.

“I guess not,” he mutters.

Your chest feels tight with pain. Although you and Jungkook only started dating three months ago, you’ve known him for a year. A year of smiles and laughter and love. Now, it’s all crumbling down because of… You’re not sure. Your mind can’t function properly knowing he doesn’t trust you after all this time.

“I want you to leave,” he says before you reply.

“Jungkook, please,” you beg.

“No,” he says sternly. “No more trying to get me to believe you. It’s time for you to go.”

“Jung—“

“Enough, Yn.”

He storms out the door and comes back a moment later with your keys.

“I’ll pack your belongings and you can pick them up tomorrow,” he says and places your keys in your palm. He holds the bedroom door open and gestures out.

You stare at him, barely able to hold yourself up when all you want to do is fall to your knees and convince him you didn’t do it. You would never sabotage him or his career. You were rooting for his success.

Jungkook sighs.

“Don’t make me—“

“Okay,” you force out, not wanting to hear him finish his sentence. You will your legs to take one step, then another until you’re out his door without another word.

Your hands shake as you retrieve your phone and dial your friend and roommate.

“H-Hey, can you pick me up from Jung-Jungkook’s?” You hate how you can’t say his name without feeling your heart break.

“Oh, now? Did something happen,” Hyunji asks.

“Yeah, but I—I don’t wanna talk about it right now,” you say with a sniffle.

“Ah. Sorry, I can’t right now,” she replies. If she knows you’re crying, she doesn’t mention it.

Great. You’re stranded. 

“O-Okay,” you say.

The line goes dead quickly after. After a deep inhale, you make your way out of Jungkook’s apartment building while looking at the ride apps.

By the time you’re seated in your ride, your heart has become numb and your eyes swollen with tears. Your ride doesn’t say anything about your state and begins driving.

You gaze out, gaze glossing over your surroundings until something catches your eyes.

Hyunji’s car.

You watch as she turns into Jungkook’s apartment complex. Odd. She said she was busy.

Jungkook and his friends live in the same complex, so she could be visiting one of them. However, there’s a growing dread in your chest that’s hard to ignore.

You lean forward to speak to the driver.

“Sorry. I forgot something. Can you turn around?” You’re surprised to hear your voice stable when your body feels otherwise.

Maybe you’re just overthinking. Maybe you’re making an excuse to not leave.

But something in your gut says you’re about to get the answer you were searching for.

Who leaked Jungkook’s song?

©️hongcherry // DO NOT REPOST OR MODIFY Please consider reblogging if you liked this work to show your support. Feedback/commentary is always welcomed.

[bangchansgirlsblog]

IF YOU HAVE SWEET ANGEL SAVED THEN POST IT 👹

Sweet Angel 👼

Part three:

**

"Babygirl?" Chan knocked on her door softly trying not to startle her. "Can I come in?"

His heart was in his throat due to the state she had just walked into the house with. Her nanny had no idea what had happened and that made him so angry.

"What do you mean you don't know what happened?" He had asked and slammed the kitchen cabinets. This caused a few of the boys to jump as I.N had quickly made his way behind her.

"I pay you to look after her and you can't even do that?" He said walking back and forth in the kitchen.

"Hyung let's just calm down and figure out what happened. Shouting at her won't do anything for us." Han stepped in trying to calm him down.

"Fine." Was the only response he got out of his Hyung.

"Sir, I'm so sorry once again. I really tried-"

"I think it's best you leave love. We'll take it from here," Changbin cuts her off knowing that even if she tried to apologize, Chan would not accept it unless he had calmed down first.

She sadly nodded and grabbed her stuff before being walked out by Felix.

"Let me go talk to her," Chan quickly said grabbing his phone off the table.

"You should calm down first Chan, let I.N do the talking right now. We're all worried but she can't see you in such an angry state," Seungmin advised while he pulled him into a hug. He really needed it.

"Fine," he sighed and sat on the stool. "Is this my fault? I shouldn't have been so hard on her-"

"Hyung stop it, drink your water and calm down," Han looked at him worried. He simply nodded and took a sip from his cup as he patiently waited for I.N to come back.

**

"It's been 15 minutes and his not even-" before Chan could finish what he was going to say, I.N came back down the stairs looking defeated. His shoulders were slumped and the frown on his face could be seen from a mile away.

"What happened I.N?" Chan jumped out his chair quickly making his way over.

"She wouldn't let me in Hyung,"

“Okay..okay maybe u should go try-“ he rushed but was quickly grabbed by Leeknow.

“Let’s give her some time to calm down okay? Maybe another 30 minutes. She may just be angry. We don’t want to keep bothering her and suffocating her,” although Chan’s thoughts were foggy at this point, leeknow was right and he couldn’t disagree there, so he just let it go at the time being.

He nodded his head and sat back at his stool. His hands land on either side of his head as he slowly yanked at the hair of his roots while thinking. This was a sign for the boys to just let him be so they all decided to make theirselves busy by starting up dinner.

“Do you guys think it’s still early to go check on her now?” Chan sighed. It had been atleast 45 minutes and he couldn’t wait any longer, he needed to know what was wrong with his babygirl.

“Yeah mate, go on. Dinner will be ready soon,” Felix encouraged him. He gave them a small smile before he made his way up the stairs not trying to trup on his own feet.

The walk felt long until he was standing at her door and slowly knocking. No response.

He knocked again but still…No response.

"Babygirl?" He knocked on her door again but softly trying not to startle her. "Can I come in?"

She heard a few footsteps until the door finally slowly opened and Chan’s gaze slowly softened at the sight. Her hair was wet and it looked like she had come out the shower but her nose and eyes were red and puffy, looking like she had just been crying. The little sniffles confirmed it.

“Love? What happened today? Can I come in?” Chan was quick to question her. She just nodded and moved to the side.

She was silent as she tried to avoid his hard gaze. He struggled to come up with words, figuring out what to say and what to do.

“Hey,” he softly said towering over her.

“Hi..” she replied quietly.

His hand slowly wrapped around her. The warmth making her slowly melt but deep down she was still angry. She was still angry at him and the world so she didn’t bother hug back. She stood there numb and tired.

“Do you want to talk about it?” His voice was muffled by her hair.

“Not right now Channie, please.”

“Why not? Did someone hurt you? Did someone threaten you?”

“I- it’s just that. I’m still so upset at you. So just give me some space.”

Ouch. His heart hurt. He failed his own little sister. Her hand’s automatically letting go of her.

“Oh…look. Y/nnie I’m sorry for being hard on you but you need to understand-“

“That’s the thing . I don’t understand!” She snapped while taking a step back from him. The anger now boiling her blood.

“You’re still young Y/nnie. You will I promise..”

“I don’t think I’ll understand why my older brother keeps overworking me and making me feel like crap. I don’t think I’ll ever understand that!”

“Y/nnie…” he took a step to hold her hand but she shrugged it off.

“Don’t..”

“I understand that’s your angry at me. It hurts me-“

“No it fucking doesn’t Chan. Why don’t you get it. You’re so busy with being so in charge that you forget how to be a real brother.”

“Don’t say that please-“

“And you know what? Yes I’m being bullied. I’ve been bullied ever since I got here. I hate you. I hate your stupid job and I hate all you boys!”

That’s all Chan needed to hear before he fell to the ground holding his chest. A loud groan leaving his lips and he took deep breaths.

This took y/n back by surprise but her body reacted automatically by grabbing him in her arms.

“Chan?! What’s wrong? What’s the matter?!” She said panicked. Her eyes started to tear.

“Call- call the boys..” he struggled to say in between breathes as he clenched his chest in pain. His forehead sweating uncontrollably.

“Okay okay, just keep breathing- keep breathing Oppa,”

[hinakazino]

Winning In Romance || Kashimo x Reader

Summary: Part 2 of Losing In Romance! You are attempting to distance yourself from Kashimo, but your parents aren't fond of this. A new potential suitor supposedly is here to swoon you, but Kashimo's never fought in love has he? Warnings: Kashimo is new to love, dumb kashimo, possessive kashimo, fluff, somewhat angst, angst but happy ending.

Kashimo had noticed your shift in demeanor right away. That night when he'd returned home, he'd felt the cold eerie darkness that presented itself as he had to turn on the lights throughout the house. He made sure to be as quiet as possible, making sure not to disturb you, but it seems you were far too busy crying. Kashimo frowned as he heard your sniffles and gulps from behind your bedroom door. You both shared separate bedrooms and for a moment he just stood outside your door. His knuckles brushing against the wood but retracting as he decided to go to bed not wanting to disturb you. That following morning he'd awoke to you already gone, apparently you'd went to visit a friend. Your presence still lingered with the soft warm breakfast you'd prepared for him, like everyday. Kashimo had ate it as usual, not wasting a drop. He always thought your food was delicious, enjoying watching you cook, however today it felt duller without you being there to enjoy it with him. He remembers how you jokingly interrogated him on whether it actually tasted good or not. The fun memory playing in his head as he sighs finishing the food, leaning back on the chair becoming lost in his thoughts on the current situation. It was not a particularly good feeling in the morning. You on the other hand, currently were sobbing into your friends arms from heartbreak. Kirara softly pat your head, their other hand comforting your back as you continued crying on their shoulder. "It's okay, you can let it all out," they whisper as you hiccup and struggle to breath.

After awhile, you end up calming down, deciding to finally eat the food you'd prepared and brought to Kirara's residence. You ate slowly as your eyes were puffy and sore from crying. Your clogged nose didn't make things better as you tried to take in the scent of your delicious creation. Kirara was a great friend of yours, you'd met them through Kashimo and your friendship bloomed. It made sense, the people you both cherished were great friends so it was only natural you'd both be too. A whine escaped your lips as you ate another spoonful of food in dismay.

Kirara had gotten up and came back with a cup of warm tea, your favorite flavor too. You couldn't help but smile, it's the little things friends do that are the best, you thought. Mouthing a thank you to Kirara who shushed you, "don't speak while eating, you'll choke!" They only made you scoff, seeing your lightened mood Kirara decided to address the problem at hand, "I understand why you feel this way y/n, and Kashimo, but he didn't have to be such an ass! That Hakari too- I'll make sure to beat some common sense into them," they stated fuming. Kirara disliked seeing you in such a state and although they could see the unfortunate circumstances you were in with Kashimo.

They truly felt that Kashimo had crossed a line with Hakari, "Kashimo should've- should've at least delivered it better!" Kirara huffed, her hands crossing in annoyance as she threw herself back on the couch next to you. You could only stare at her grimly, unsure of what to do. It wasn't like the confession was false but it just cut deeper hearing it yourself.

You decided to spend the whole day with Kirara, working together in emotional healing and preparation. Mainly because you would have to return to your shared residence since eventually yours and Kashimo's family would come knocking. They clearly could care less about how we're actually doing, you think.

You didn't want to drag Kirara into this but it seemed they were determined to do something. Mentioning how they'd "definitely have a talk," how "kashimo doesn't even realize what you've been through," and that "he is so stupid". You weren't particularly worried what Kirara would do, just making sure to reason with them to not make things worse.

Kirara of course promised to not do anything reckless, and afterwards it was just a huge emphasis on facing Kashimo back home. You ended up staying a week at Kirara's in no rush as you didn't want to reveal yourself in such a weak state, only returning home one afternoon.

You felt horrible for only arriving back to the residence now, however you didn't feel well enough to see him in the morning. It was a sickening feeling you didn't know how to describe. Small sweat began to form on your face, as your hands were shaking from attempting to turn your keys, and from holding your breath as you carefully slid open the door. Only to find that Kashimo had fallen asleep on the couch. You felt yourself breath again as you silently shut the door, but that didn't seem to hide anything because the next thing you knew Kashimo was sitting up wide awake. Staring at you, grounding you in place.

You didn't dare speak a word, you didn't even know what to say, you felt like a deer caught in the headlights. You could tell he wasn't happy though. His beautiful cyan hair was a mess, curls sticking out unnaturally, he had eye bags under his now dull golden eyes, and his body seemed to lean towards you in a daze. "You're back.." Kashimo states as he gets up and moves towards you. He reaches his hand out to cup your cheek and winces when you flinch at his touch. His hands were cold and unfamiliar, you normally wouldn't mind but it was extremely awkward considering the situation.

Finding your voice again you decided to move, "um- yeah sorry wasn't well, don't worry though everything's fine!" you hurriedly say, attempting to go pass him. The attempt fails as Kashimo uses his body to block you, his strong arms clasping your shoulders to hold you still.

Kashimo doesn't know what to say so he just blurts out, "I'm sorry! I didn't want to sound that way, I know it wasn't right of me to inform you that way! I- I um, you're wonderful and well- please forgive me! Oh or don't, that's okay, you can hit me if it feels better!" You're in a state of shock as Kashimo lets you go and proceeds to lower himself onto his knees. Glancing up at you with eyes now filled with determination as he goes below your height. You can't help but laugh at the sight, he is so cute dammit, you think to yourself, hands anxiously fiddling. As quickly as possible you push him back to stand, "I don't want to hit you, and don't worry, I'm hurt but it is what it is, we'll work through it," you say softly. You could tell his apology was genuine, with the way he was glancing at you now like a puppy. This was just how it was though, one sided love, you thought.

You wanted to make yourself clear however, "we can just have everything fall back into place, soon our families will step in, they're the ones who brought this whole mess after all," you state in a hopeful tone. In truth, you didn't want to remain distant with him, he was still a good man, but this was for the best. Kashimo stood up straight again, but his face was unreadable. It made you feel uncomfortable to not know, but the reality was actually because Kashimo didn't know how to feel. His lips were pulled tight together, as your words settled.

The thought of you and him separating didn't seem pleasing to him, it never really did but for him, he thinks it is due to him never having had an actual lover. Kashimo couldn't grasp the swirl of emotions inside him now, but he knows he dislikes what you're saying. It is a sudden strong dislike that has him slumping his shoulders further in guilt.

He felt like a real jerk, he knew he couldn't take his words back, what he did wasn't honorable in any way despite him being a warrior. Kashimo began to seriously question what you meant to him whilst you were gone, and it's just then he remembers an incident during your week away.

How after the 3rd day he'd grown anxious and decided to seek you out. Somehow wounding up at Hakari's house in a state of distress, frantically asking of your whereabouts. Instead of Hakari however, Kirara answered the door. It wasn't strange as they were over at Hakari's quite frequently but their demeanor wasn't friendly. Kirara had welcomed him into the living room where he could see Hakari on the couch in silence. It didn't take him long to realize that Hakari was just being scolded and now him. "I'll cut to the chase, KASHIMO YOU COULDN'T EVEN TELL HER NICELY????" Kirara shouts. Beads of sweat form for Hakari as his hands stay placed nervously on his lap. Kashimo is now seated next to him at a loss of words, he knows Kirara isn't wrong, allowing them to further scold him. "You really broke her ya know! Like she knows already you guys didn't have to rub it in... OH MY GOD-- you don't even know what she already goes through with her family pressuring her AND the bullying she receives from those other bitches!!" Kiara yells as Kashimo's head snaps up confused. "What?" he asks, stupidly so. "What do you mean what? You don't know?? Oh well you never really attended the majority of the parties, but basically you have fangirls that've been harassing y/n about how pathetic this is," Kiara says, hands gesturing at the whole situation as she slumps down on the couch across from the two. Catching her breath from ranting so much and sighing. Kashimo had questioned Kiara after on the severity of the bullying and the bullies themselves. He felt like hitting himself more and more hearing what you had to endure. Kashimo realized he was a true idiot, just because he didn't care about his family that doesn't mean it applies to you. Along with that he hadn't really cared much about reputation, and yours he clearly damaged.

All of these emotions he felt once again, standing before you now. The weight on his shoulders never seeming to budge, he could see the eye-bags under your eyes, you were exhausted and he was just happy to have you back in his vicinity. "I just want you to know I do not hate you, you're a wonderful and lovely person," he mentions softly. You feel your heart flutter at his words and tone, but the excitement quickly settles. "Thank you, I'll- um good night," you bid farewell to Kashimo deciding to just go rest for the night. Leaving him to his own thoughts as he questions his true feelings for you, mainly the amount of pain in your eyes.

It all goes back to normal the next day, there's an awkward tension hanging in the house. It is accompanied with a comforting blanket though, as you both settle into a friendly routine with each other. You notice that Kashimo is even more attentive than before, offering to help you with tasks like folding laundry (despite being bad at it). The next few days go by when suddenly an invitation for a party arrives. The Kamo clan is holding a ceremony to announce their next clan leader. You would've skipped it this time as after spending much time with Kirara, you were fed up with your families whole talk on "reputation". This invitation was different though, because your good childhood friend Choso Kamo would be attending. Maybe even as the next heir, surely I must make it for him, you think, smiling as at least your friend is okay. You were reading over the letter with Kashimo looking over your shoulder.

You expected him to decline as he doesn't enjoy parties and their over exaggerated formalities, normally leaving you to attend. "I'll come with you," he says instead, and you find yourself appreciating that he doesn't want to leave your side. You both settle the matter and continue on until the day of the party. When the day comes you arrive with Kashimo, hand-in-hand the two of you walk into the large beautiful building on the Kamo estate. The luxurious gardens along with statues and fountains welcome everyone into the main building. Where the party is already lively with music played by an orchestra.

You and Kashimo arrive just in time to greet the soon-to-be previous clan leader. Norotoshi Kamo who welcomes you both, mentioning how lovely it is to see you again, valiantly disregarding Kashimo, much to his annoyance.

It doesn't take long for the crowd to quiet down as Choso is indeed announced as the new clan head. Cheers erupt as everyone begins piling gifts to Choso and dining on the provided feast. You and Kashimo end up separated as you go speak with Choso yourself. "Choso! Over here!" you yell, navigating through a crowd of people who get up to dance. Choso is talking to some other higher ups but he dismisses himself to come speak to you. "Oh shoot- sorry if I interrupted," you say, worried you'll make a bad impression on your friend.

Choso chuckles, "no worries, they're quite boring anyway, how've you been?" he asks after reassuring you. You respond by informing him how things between you and Kashimo have gotten better, "though I have a feeling we may divorce soon" you add solemnly. Choso's eyes widen as he frowns, placing a hand on your shoulder for comfort, "you will find the one," he says, a bit too seriously as his eyes bore into yours. You find yourself giggling at his expression and tone, "goodness you sound like you're declaring war!" you say laughing. Choso looks away for a moment embarrassed, "ah you know I'm not good with words," he says, smiling down at you as he did somehow lift your spirits. You stare up at him in appreciation, "yeah but you're trying your best," you say before being interrupted.

A woman who looks about your age approaches with some other girls, you don't know her well but you recognize that she along with some others are part of the group who consistently mock you. It hasn't been a big issue, but got more intense as your marriage to Kashimo stayed somewhat stale.

"So desperate you're clinging to another man? Not a bad choice though~" she says, snickering at you. The other ladies throw rude glances, some glare directly at you, making you feel so small. You never really knew how to deal with people like them.

Often you opted to just ignore them, giving them the idea that you weren't listening to their nonsense. It didn't matter, as although you imagined yourself giving a clever retort, it just doesn't come out in the form of words. Your hands become sweaty as you feel like you're shrinking.

You don't even realize you're holding your breath until Choso's hand softly taps your waist. His smile comforting you before he turns and quickly reprimands the girls. "How bold you are insulting the wife of the Hajime clans future leader? Are you not aware of the consequences you face?" he questions.

Choso's gaze is nothing short of deadly as some of the ladies back away in fear. The main woman however isn't easily scared, she also held affections for Kashimo from what you remember. "Isn't the wife supposed to be with her husband? Hm? Pathetic how you are even married- Kashimo doesn't deserve this torture!" she yells, not even trying to hide the scene. You begin to panic as you see other people who are eating turn heads towards you. Choso decides to end the matter, walking up to the woman and harshly stating, "you dare place the blame on y/n! You're just jealous you can't even get married and now I see why. How shameful a woman you are, you wouldn't be this honest in front of that Hajime now would you?" he seethes.

This seems to snap the woman out of her confidence as she decides to turn around and leave. You relax as Choso turns towards you, you're just happy it's over. Only to tense up again as he greets your parents, who were approaching the scene from behind you.

Your mother worriedly comes to pull you into a hug, which you melt into. You hear her quietly whispering to you about how "it's okay now", "I'm sorry I couldn't do anything", and "damn your father" in sadness. You know your mom didn't want you to suffer, but father had other plans.

Your dad smiles a bit too lovingly at you and your mother before turning to Choso. "I congratulate you on becoming clan head, it feels like it was just yesterday when you and y/n were playing together, thank you for taking care of my daughter even now," your father says. It all seems rehearsed as your father takes a hold of Choso's hands in a forward gesture of appreciation. Choso is a bit taken aback but just nods in understanding.

Meanwhile from the other side of the room Kashimo watches. He'd tried to go and save you, anger rising up his throat when he witnessed what happened. But Choso had came to your rescue instead, leaving Kashimo dumbfounded.

Kashimo doesn't know how long he stood in the middle of the dance floor, but it was enough for Hakari to pull him out. He didn't like how you were laughing with Choso before, and he most certainly didn't miss the way Choso's hand had patted you.

Kashimo had never really felt this way, but he began to wonder whether this was what you were feeling. How it felt to be left out, and to not have someone you care about look at you happily. He felt his hand reach over his chest as he couldn't pinpoint this heartthrob feeling.

Hakari watched his friend in emotional turmoil, but before he could speak someone else had cut him off. Kashimo's eyes were fixated on the way Choso had fended off your bullies and who now was talking to your family, in such a familiar manner too. He couldn't help the thought that crossed his mind, how Choso looked like he fit in with your family, with you.

Instantly he was snapped out of his daze as his mother's words sliced through his ears. "You see it too can't you son?" she asks, not letting him respond as she continues, "the way that Kamo fits so well with her, they're already planning on remarrying her".

Kashimo's heart drops, as he glances over at you and Choso speaking again before turning his attention to his mother. "That's nonsense, you're overthinking--" "Oh! Just! I can't even argue with you because they'd make a much better match," his mother states. She huffs at Kashimo who doesn't know what to say. To him, it reminds him of when he was getting scolded as a child, normally he'd talk back but his mother was swift. "I don't even know anymore! Whether I was blessed with you- isn't it funny? Hah! MY SON CAN WIN ALL BATTLES BUT HE CAN'T EVEN WIN IN LOVE". Kashimo feels his shoulders stiffen as he senses your eyes on him, your worried eyes, now glancing at him as his mother lets out all her anger on him. He is sure that everyone is enjoying this drama, but in this moment he can't stand the idea of you being with someone else. He ignores his mother as he holds your gaze, greatly enjoying the fact that you are worried for him, that you care. Kashimo doesn't know but he just decides then that he wants you to be with him. That he doesn't want a divorce, that he wants to be by your side, that he, he is in love with you too.

He was just too stupid, too oblivious to understand that he had developed feelings. He just didn't recognize them, he has only ever understood completely the rush of adrenaline in battle. He hasn't ever really had anyone care for him in such a manner.

Kashimo can feel himself getting jealous as your attention averts away from him as Choso mentions something to you. All he knows is that he doesn't like the idea of you looking at someone else the way you do to him. So he bolts over to your side, he isn't sure what he'll do but he knows it just feels right. You're shocked when Kashimos hands wrap around your waist from behind. You face heats up as he rests his head on your shoulder, his hot breath hitting your neck and causing you to shiver. You don't even register the way he glares at Choso, shooing him away, or even Choso's dismissal of himself. All you know is that Kashimo seems strangely possessive.

It's a completely new sensation. Your hand softly places itself on Kashimo's face as you squirm a bit from his hold, not use to being touched. Kashimo snaps out of his thoughts, successfully having chased Choso off he releases you sensing your discomfort. He doesn't know what to say, nor do as you both stare at each other. Kashimo decides that he is horrible at communication so he just grabs your hand, pulling you along with him outside of the party. You just continue watching his facial expression in confusion as he ushers you outside. His face is serious as a crowd of people part for him, and it makes you wonder whether you did something wrong. You decide to speak first once you're both alone in a secluded section of the gardens out back. "If this is about me and Choso it's not what you think, that girl earlier was just crazy- uh I'm, really sorry," you apologize, gaze shifting downwards as you anticipate his response. Your fingers tightly intertwine and squeeze in worry. You flinch in surprise as he cups your face in his hands, tilting you to look up at him. "That's not it, stop apologizing! It isn't your fault!" he states, gently squishing you cheeks for emphasis. You feel your face warm up as he continues to stare, his eyes moving from yours down to your lips.

Kashimo just finds himself loss in your face at the moment. His brain is thinking about how cute you are, smiling, albeit nervously as your cheeks are squished. He is thinking about how soft your cheeks are, how pretty your eyes are in the sunlight, how adorable your nose is, and how kissable your lips look. Does this even make sense? He doesn't care, in fact he doesn't know how to express it in words, but he tries anyway. "I know I haven't been the ideal partner, and I've been really pathetic, really, but would you still give me a chance to prove myself worthy? These feelings are a bit new, but I want to be with you, I- I'm attracted to you! You're so kind, amazing, ah- I just didn't realize, I do love you..." he blurts, mumbling at the end, letting go of your face as his hands fall to his sides. Kashimo's face is red from embarrassment, he feels much like a child, wanting to grab your hands, and kiss you. However, he doesn't want to cause more damage than he already has. His eyes shift away from you for a moment, he is really scared, and this is new to him too. Kashimo feels like if he loses you, it'd be worser than losing any fight in his life. He instantly becomes concerned as you start crying, you still love him too, and you're just so happy. Happy that he feels the same too, and that these persistent feelings in your heart are now accepted. Your eyes begin overflowing as your vision blurs when you attempt to look at Kashimo clearly. "I'm willing, I'm just so happy! I thought you wouldn't ever- that it was over," you hiccup, smiling still. Kashimo has a major wave of relief wash over him, but it's more than that, it is like a cleansing for a new beginning. He wraps you in his arms again, hugging you to his chest as his hand softly pets your head. He comes close to your ear, "shhhh, I'm here now and I'll be with you from now on," he says glancing lovingly at you. His hand gently moving down to wipe more tears from your face. You calm down as you lean into his touch, his palm feels hot against your skin, glancing up at him you hesitantly ask, "could I kiss you?". He nods, "you don't have to ask, just do it," Kashimo says grinning at your embarrassment. He doesn't let you dwell on the idea as he leans down to kiss you. It is the greatest kiss you've ever had, full of emotional need and warm. Your hands wrap around his neck to pull him down, closer to you as your hand entangles a bit with his cyan hair. His lips are just as soft as you remember, and the kiss goes deeper as you both only part when the need for air is present. You're in a daze as you watch the string of salvia clinging between your lips and his. Your tongue burns slightly from the wrestling you'd been doing with him. It isn't surprising that Kashimo is so passionate when it comes to kissing, as you've imagined a couple times before. The point is that it is much more surreal as you stare at him huffing down at you two. His eyes heavily hooded as he stares at you almost hungrily. Kashimo's hands are holding you again, he sits down on a nearby bench, pulling you onto his lap as he lays on your chest staring up at you dreamily. He decides he wants to protect you at all costs, and that he won't be so stupidly reckless no more. He just wants to spend his time appreciating you and you, with him. He sinks into the way you giggle at him and play with his hair. He is content with starting this new chapter of his life with you, knowing that he was able to win in romance too.

© 2023 by Hinakazino, do not translate/edit/claim or use my work in any form.

[dronebiscuitbat]

Oil is Thicker Then Blood (Part 19)

“What the hell is this about a kid!” V burst into N's apartment without any warning the next day, as they were discussing how to handle heading to the party. Among other things.

Tera almost immediately began to wail at the sudden noise, making the irate disassembler shut up and stiffen like she'd been slapped with a board.

“Shhh! It's okay Tera.” Uzi immediately went to work in calming the pillbaby down since she had been in her arms (ya know, attached) V looked starstruck, and N glared at her for a moment before sighing.

“Yes V, I adopted a baby.” N clarified, coming up to stand by Uzi and look down at his daughter, making sure she calmed down.

Tera slowly calmed down, Uzi rocking her gently until the wail calmed down into sniffles, N finished it off with a boop to the visor which made her last sniffle turn into a light laugh.

“When?! Why wasn't I the first to know!” V whisper-screamed at the both of the, eyes darting between Uzi and N and both pairs of claws pointing at the ceiling.

“It kinda happened too fast? And uh, we kinda wanted to keep it to ourselves for awhile…? N replied, closing the gap between him and V nervously.

“We?” She crossed her arms and lifted an eyebrow at them.

“I'm listed as a caretaker. Why do you think I'm even here?” Uzi asked sarcastically, lifting Tera up to show off the short cable attached to her side.

“There's a psychopath out there, Uzi could go feral at any moment. And you decide to bring a baby into this!” She seethed, her tail sticking straight up like a flagpole, looking almost like she was pleading.

“It-it wasn't like we weren't thinking about that V. But Tera needed me-us!” He explained, gesturing back to both Tera and Uzi, who looked a little insulted at V's words. But kept her mouth shut.

“Needed? That kid would literally be safer buried under snow then with any of us. If you've forgotten, Doll wants all of us dead.”

“Yeah I know! And maybe she would be safer with someone who wasn't involved, but there was no guarantee that anyone else could take care of her!” Both N and V's voices were steadily rising again, and if Tera's face was anything to go by, she wasn't liking it.

“Enough!” Uzi's voice cracked above both of them, N immediately fell silent and looked back at her face all sorts of apologetic, surprisingly V did the same, although crossing her arms and looking petty as she did.

“You two can argue all you want about it. But not here, and not in front of Tera, Got it?”

“Sorry Zi…” Came from N as he rubbed the back of his head.

“When did you get so motherly?” Came from V as she pointed at the purple drone with a single claw pointing out at her.

“Bite me V. I'm serious.”

V made a noise of indignation, but seemed to concede. Side eyeing N but falling quiet for a moment.

“Did you want to see her V? I know you didn't come here just to chew us out.” Uzi asked after a moment, although rather awkwardly, she still wasn't sure how to “be nicer” very well, but she was trying.

V looked surprised for a moment, her claws even turning back into normal hands for a moment so she could rub them together.

“I could totally come here just to chew you two out!” She recovered, trying to snarl back, but it was rather unsuccessful in trying to look intimidating without her claws.

Uzi lifted a brow, and through grumbles V approached her, and Uzi unplugged Tera from herself before gently placing the little droneling in her arms.

“Uh… hi?” It was clear V didn't know how to interact with children, much less a baby, as she wasn't exactly holding her right, nor did she sound all that confident.

Tera looked back at her curiously, eyes drifting from her visor to her face and to her tail twitching behind her. She almost looked as if she was suspicious of her.

“That's V, Tera, she's uh… kinda your aunt.” N came up behind V, hovering over both women (because he's so damn tall) and speaking gently. V shot him a glare that said “I'm her what?”. But he just smiled and flicked his eyes back to Tera.

Tera spent another moment focusing on V's features before she smiled at her, rolling into her chest to hug her.

Uzi and N both watched as V locked up.

“What is happening…?” She asked slowly, looking taken aback.

“Awww V, she likes you!” N exclaimed, intertwining his own fingers together as he “awwwed”

V looked suddenly a little fearful of the baby now tucked in her arms, and glanced at both N, who was smiling so wide it almost look like it hurt. And then to Uzi, who was so so smug.

“Wipe that stupid grin off you face.” She growled at her, but if anything Uzi's grin just got wider.

“Didn't think I'd ever see you hold a baby V, it suits you.” Uzi teased, being unable to stop herself from antagonizing her, even if was just a little bit.

“Oh shut up.”

A muffled noise came from the pillbaby buried in her jacket, and all three of them looked down curiously, only for Tera to roll out screaming happily:

“Vee!”

“She's starting to learn names really quickly.” N pointed out, looking proud.

V however looked like someone had stabbed her in the chest, a warped smile on her face and a golden blush sneaking up on her visor, eyelights hollow as she stared down at the droneling.

“You can say she's cute V.” Uzi laughed, seeing the was V's hold on Tera got much better after the baby said her name.

“I-I Uh-No! She's not!”

“Vee!” Tera said again, rolling around in said drones arms violently, and then giggling like crazy.

“Here!” She thrust Tera into N's arms before distancing herself quickly, facing away from both of them.

“I uh, have more important things to do!” V almost shouted as she quickly exited the apartment without so much as a goodbye. And Uzi couldn't help but laugh at the display.

And she thought she didn't want to be seen being soft.

“Well… that went…okay?” N spoke up after a minute of silence, a lopsided smile on his face as he touched his face, either out of amusement or relief he wasn't sure.

“As well as it could've.” Uzi shrugged before holding the front of her visor, the pressure in her head had grown over the last several days, with all the craziness going on, it was starting to get to her.

“Hey, try not to sweat it too much. It's why were going to this party right? De-stress?”

“Maybe it isn't a good idea? I m-mean V is kinda right for once. I'm not exactly-”

Before she could finish, N placed a hand over hers and squeezed gently, shutting her up immediately.

“It'll be fine. And even if it isn't, I'll be there yeah?” She blushed, looking away from him for a moment before returning with her own gentle squeeze, looking him in the eyes and smiling.

He found himself smiling back before the flutter of nerves in his core got the better of him and he removed it, looking away even though his tail was wagging rapidly.

She had to feel the same way right? The hug and now…this? This wasn't something that was normal for her. Wanting to be close, meeting his physical affection with her own.

The only real way to be sure was to tell her.

“En?”

Tera’s voice brought him out of his thoughts again, for once resting in his arms without rolling around, he smiled down at her, nuzzling her chassis and making her squeal in delight.

“Easy Jellybean.” He hummed, and Uzi laughed at the nickname, looking at him inquisitively.

“Jellybean?”

“Yeah! She's cute and sweet and bean shaped!

She rolled her eyes but laughed just the same, coming up to his side to gaze down at Tera as well, as she smiled back up at them, seemingly content.

Next ->

[thesnakeslibrary]

True Zending

Pairings: The Narrator/GN Reader Type: Hurt/Comfort Summary: After suffering through Zending, The Narrator notices crying coming from outside of the game.

" Is it over? It’s going to restart, isn’t it? I’m going back. "

Moments after The Narrator finished speaking, everything faded to black and left the two of them –him and Stanley– back in the office. The Narrator leaned back in his chair, the only sounds in the room being the leather creaking and his breathing. " Why did Stanley have to take that from me? " He let out a frustrated sigh as he shook his head, sitting up straight to begin his repetitive narration. But he couldn't. Stanley was not moving, simply staying in the same spot, frozen.

" Stanley? Are you alright? " Though feeling betrayed and heartbroken, The Narrator still cared for Stanley's emotional well-being. The unusual sound of shaky breathing and crying was all he heard in response to his question, although it hadn't come from Stanley. It sounded like his own narration, not originating from anywhere specific but feeling as though it was coming from inside your head.

That was when he realized it came from the player. It didn't come from Stanley, no, no, no. It came from the person controlling Stanley. It came from you. " Um...player? Are you alright? " He was only met by more shaky sobs. He sighed and pushed some keys on his computer, transporting you into the game somehow. The writer had it carefully set, so you would appear in his office, but the sorrowful sight he saw utterly broke his heart. You, in a tight ball on the floor, hysterically sobbing. "I’m so fuck–fucking sorry, oh my god, I’m so sorry…I didnt want to I prom–promise I didnt, I couldn't do–do anything else the game–the game wouldn't let me I promise im so sorry, I want you happ–happy I promise…"

Apologies poured from your mouth like water from a broken dam, you not having seemed to realize you were directly in the parable. You only became aware of the fact when you felt large hands gently position you upright, the inviting face of The Narrator in front of you. You darted around the room, incredibly confused, "Wha-huh? Why— h–how—?" You sniffled, temporarily distracted from your sorrow and guilt, it was mostly replaced by confusion.

" Shh, shh...you're okay, I'm here. " He extended his arms as an invite for a hug if you desired it, and boy did you. You hastily shuffled towards him and squashed him in a tight bear hug, shedding your tears into his buttoned jacket. The Narrator stroked up and down your back, his other hand running through your disheveled hair. " You're okay, I'm okay. " "But–But I hurt you, I–I, I made you think I’d–I’d rather be dead than play–play your game…I’m so fucking sorr–sorry…" He frowned and tenderly lifted you into his lap, resuming his caressing. " As far as I can tell, you did not want to. You didn't have another possible choice, and I don't condemn you for that. "

Your head was tilted until your eyes met, an ink-stained hand on your cheek, wiping away falling tears. " It is alright. " His soothing voice instantly pacified you, leaning your head into his calloused hand as you shut your eyes. His lips formed a soft smile as he pressed a prolonged kiss to your forehead. You choked back a sob, the key difference between this one and your previous cries being that this one was formed out of joy. The charming man you've been repeatedly playing this game for, the man you've been pinning for, was right here in front of you. You could see and touch him. You no longer have to imagine his appearance.

He did happen to look like you envisioned, though, with short black and gray hair, glasses, and rough yet kind eyes. You leaned forwards and nestled your face into the soft fabric of his turtleneck. You sucked in a deep inhale, melting at the intoxicating scent of the man holding you. Everything about The Narrator was comforting; you couldn't find a single thing you would alter about him. Well, except for the fact that you lived in two separate worlds. Just as you finished that thought, the Brit spoke, " Would you like to stay here, darling? I would thoroughly enjoy your company. "

Good lord, you completely turned into a puddle at his kind words. You nodded, not trusting you would sound put together if you spoke. The taller of the two of you grinned and once again lifted your gaze to meet his, " May I kiss you, my dear? " Fuck, you virtually turned into a ripe tomato at his words. It seemed to delight him quite a bit. You forgot to give him any sort of response, the inquiry seemingly having fried your brain. " Well? " He let out a soft chuckle, lifting a hand to tenderly caress your cheek.

You once again chased after the affectionate touch like a cat, almost purring like one as well. You gave out a faint murmur as a yes, eliciting a smile from the old man. He leaned down to place a loving kiss on your lips, and you happily reciprocated. He would've continued kissing you forever if you didn't need to breathe, reluctantly pulling away. He touched your foreheads together, pure fondness in his eyes. " Lord, I've only properly known you for but a few minutes and I'm already entirely captivated by you. " He smiled in amusement at how his words flustered you. " I suspect you've felt that way about me for much longer, hm? " You nodded and leaned up to kiss him, letting out an annoyed whine at being unable to reach his lips.

He chuckled and bent down to close the gap between you two, placing a gentle hand on the back of your head. " You are truly something irresistible. " He concluded his sentence with a quick peck on your lips. You beamed and wiggled closer to him, resting your head on his chest. He slowly stood up with a groan, carefully holding you in his arms. He strode back around to his desk, seating himself in his worn-out leather chair. He reclined with you in his arms, happier than he had been for a while.

" On second thought, that astral dome was not the sole thing that made me happy. I undoubtedly have that right here in my arms. " If your face could've flushed even more, it would have, you wiggling your legs in ecstatic joy. The Narrator continued, beginning to ramble. " Now that I'm really contemplating it, I suppose I've been infatuated with you since the very start. Ever since I had realized it was not Stanley that I was narrating, it was then I began falling for you. " 

This was exactly something you had been longing for since you initially heard The Narrator's lovely voice. Being comfortably held in his lap while being able to listen to him ramble on to his heart's content. Unfortunately, your ability to listen to him slowly dampened as his velvety voice lulled you to sleep. Once you're just about to cross into the land of dreams, you hear one last thing uttered to you, followed by a fond kiss.

" Rest well, my love. You're safe here in my arms. " The Narrator gave a soft smile as you closed your eyes.

[laviethepooh]

summary. when you’re burnt out, alhaitham is there for you, even though he’s just your roommate.

ft. alhaitham x y/n (no kaveh this time </3)

cw. modern!au, (optional: gifted kid) burnout

wc. 1.8k

notes. burnout sucks especially when you love academic validation :(( senioritis is coming for me soon and i’m trying to stay as motivated as possible to do work but even with college application results coming out well (i’m not letting digital footprint ruin anything for me but hey only 1 rejection and a deferral) i can feel that i’m losing energy to work on school. anyway  a mid story for a mid feeling :((

on a tuesday night at 2am after a long day of work, alhaitham walked past your bedroom door. although it was dark, he could tell that your desk lamp was still on by the faint glow that shone from under the door. you had spent the past several days up this late working on some sort of project. 

you looked miserable these days. your eyes were puffing, signifying that you had been crying recently and the bags under your eyes were so deep that he was certain that you had gotten an aggregate of an hour of sleep that week. during the rare times that you shared a meal together, you barely spoke and barely ate.

although school in general was a struggle, your major was significantly more demanding than the others. it wasn’t uncommon for you to stay up late working on an essay or finishing other homework, but this past week had been killing you and he could clearly tell.

however, he didn’t feel like it was his place to be saying anything to you. sure, you probably saw him more than your friends, especially since you were his roommate, but that didn’t mean the two of you were extremely close. other than the occasional grocery run together and conversations in the living room, you never spent much time together outside of the house.

but that night as he walked past your room, he heard sniffling. he paused, lifting his headphones to check if he heard correctly.

“i’m so tired of everything,” he heard you say from beyond the door, muffled by your sleeves.

he pursed his lips as he considered what he should do. on a normal day, he would have ignored it and gone to sleep since it was none of his business, but this time something was pulling on him to interfere, even if it was rude.

he took in a deep breath and knocked on your bedroom door.

“hey, are you in there?”

he heard nothing but silence on the other side of the door. then he heard some shuffling and the door clicked open.

as expected, you looked terrible. your eyes and cheeks were wet with tears and your nose was runny. your clothes and hair were disheveled and from beyond you, he could see several empty cups of coffee strewn all over your desk indicating that you were running on nothing but caffeine. your floor was covered in papers and pencils as if you had thrown them at the ground, perhaps out of a fit of anger.

“sorry, i must look like a mess right now,” you said, your voice thick, “but did you need something?”

haitham’s heart dropped after hearing your voice. he had never been so concerned for an almost stranger crying, but the tears threatening to spill over and the way your lips quivered slightly made him want to comfort you.

“i guess it would be stupid of me to ask if you’re alright.”

you gave him a small smile before looking at the ground. “it’s the thought that counts. but i’m sure you already know the answer. i know it’s a pigsty in here, but would you like to come inside?”

“if you don’t mind,” he responded as he stepped inside. besides there being a lot of stuff thrown around, it wasn’t nearly as bad as you made it out to be.

you ushered him onto the end of your bed and you sat beside him before letting out a long sigh.

“when did you start working today?” he turned to look at you.

you thought for a moment. “i woke up at around 6 this morning.”

“and went to sleep when?”

you went silent.

“i’m concerned for you. this isn’t healthy.”

“i know that, haitham. if i could, i would be sleeping from 9 to 6 everyday.”

he was confused. you were more than capable of finishing your work quickly and he had seen it done before. it was strange that you were even spending so much time on a project that he knew others had already finished a while ago.

“i’m just,” you started, “losing all my motivation. i don’t feel like doing anything. but the tuition is what’s preventing me from just dropping out entirely.”

you flopped onto the bed and covered your face.

“i don’t know what’s wrong with me. i used to love doing projects and writing essays for classes. but all of a sudden i just can’t do it anymore. i’m so tired.”

it was silent for a short moment as haitham considered what he should do. he knew that he was supposed to comfort someone in this kind of situation, but he didn’t want to cross a boundary that wasn’t meant to be crossed between roommates. despite this, he wanted to hold you in his arms in a way that wouldn’t be done between just roommates, even if it would make things awkward later.

he gently grabbed you and pulled you up so that you were in his arms. when he noticed that you were shaking from your sobs, he instinctively tightened his arms around you and stroked your head softly. you weren’t pushing him away, so he assumed he was making the right decision by doing this. with no comforting words to say, this was the most he could do for you.

after a long time, you finally pulled away from him, wiping your tears away.

“‘m sorry you had to see that,” you apologized although alhaitham was more sorry that he couldn’t do anything to help you. “i think that the lack of sleep has put my emotions into whack.”

he shook his head profusely. “i remember a friend of mine once saying that it’s important to release any kind of emotion you have.”

alhaitham followed your eyes as you stared up at the ceiling. “i’m not sure what it is. i feel like i’m such a disappointment. my grades are slipping at an exponential rate and i feel like i’ll never be able to catch up to them.”

he thought for a moment about what he could say to you. you got this and you’re doing great felt shallow and were probably very inconsiderate responses, even if he believed in them. asking you to take a break would be fruitless and telling you that your grades weren’t as important as your health would obviously not get through to you.

“do you want me to make you some food?”

you looked at his face for the first time in a while. it seemed that his offering was something that interested you. “what kind of food?”

“just some comfort food that my grandmother used to make for me. i could make some for you if you’d like? i’m not as good of a chef as she was, but i can replicate it pretty well.”

“well, i am actually kinda hungry,” you thought to yourself out loud. “i’d like to try your cooking! do you want me to help with anything?”

he shook his head in response. “just sit on the couch and try to relax. we can go back to your project after we eat, but take a break for the time being. i’ll help you with getting inspiration.”

you looked at him with wide eyes as you followed him out of the room and sat on the couch as he instructed.

“hey, why are you being so nice to me all of a sudden, though?” he heard you ask while he was getting some of the spices from the cabinet.

he paused mid-movement, hand frozen in the air. why was he being so nice to you? he knew he wasn’t a heartless person by nature, but he wasn’t very caring either, especially to someone who was just his roommate. he thought about your crying face and felt a literal pang in his heart. he didn’t even feel this way towards his friends (not that he had many).

“i’d rather see your face smiling than crying,” he finally responded simply.

you went quiet for a moment as if to try to take in what he said. “thank you. i don’t have many people i can turn to whenever i’m going through, i dunno, burnout or whatever. you were the first person who listened to me in a while.” he then heard you mumble something else afterwards.

“what was that? i didn’t catch the last part,” he said as he leaned around the corner to look into the living room.

you pursed your lips as if you didn’t want to say anything, but your eyes looked like they wanted to say it. you urged him to come closer and he set down the onion powder to sit next to you. you urged him again and he leaned in so that you could whisper into his ear.

“i said, it feels extra special since it’s you,” you said in a hushed voice before covering your face.

alhaitham froze again and started to feel heat creep up his neck and face. what a strange reaction to just nine words. however, you also seemed to be reacting similarly as you looked like you were about to die of embarrassment.

“you don’t have to reciprocate those feelings or anything,” you clarified. “it’s more than enough that you listened to me today and had to deal with everything.”

“but what if i do reciprocate those feelings?”

“what?”

“i said, what if i do reciprocate those feelings?”

you looked at alhaitham strangely. “well, i guess that would mean, uh, one of us asks each other out on a date or something. i don’t really know.”

“then would you like to have a dinner date with me right now?” he offered. his face was still very warm, but he was smirking regardless of it.

“wait.” you held up your hands in front of you. “wait, wait, wait. are you saying that you like me?”

he didn’t say anything but his expression remained the same.

“oh. well then, i guess i would like to go on a dinner date with you.”

alhaitham broke out into a smile. he never expected a confession would come out of a night like this. “we can go on a date after you go to sleep though. i wouldn’t want you falling asleep while eating dinner.” and he went back into the kitchen to put the finished dish into a bowl.

“hey haitham?”

he turned to look at you again. “yes?”

“thanks again.”

“anything for you.”

[foxyarchive]

Glass in the Ocean[P2]

You reconcile about your near-death encounter and spend some quality time with those in your life-- New and old.

- I'm so happy that some of y'all are liking the story so far!! Any comments or general likes really help to boost my confidence for this and mood! I'm excited to bring you all the next chapter in a little over a week! Cross-Posted on AO3!

Warnings: None

Words: ~5.3k

Tags in the comments! Ask to be added to the taglist!

P1 | P2 | P3

When you had gotten back to the house, nobody was home still, thankfully. It was clear that some had come by to drop off a couple of things, or even pick some up, but besides that it was blissfully quiet. That was perfect for you. It gave you time to shut yourself in your room, sitting there on the chair at your desk as you tried to calm the erratic breaths. It felt like there just wasn't enough air, and you felt the presence of more hot tears slide down your face. A shuddering sob left your body as your mortality finally sank in; You had almost died. You could have died. That certainly could've been the end of your story, once and for all, and all because of your own stupidity. 

It made you sob even harder, putting your head in your hands as you curled in on yourself. Your ankle was stinging, and so were your eyes, but nothing hurt as bad as the ache in your chest at the staunch realization of how close you’d come to facing your own doom. With all the crying that tears from your mouth and throat, it’s a miracle you’re able to hear your alarm on your phone go off. It gives you a pause, your sniffling and weeps coming to a halt as you look over and spy what it’s for. Fuck. Dinner. That’s right. 

“Shit.” You whisper out, hastily wiping the tears off of your face. You need to be at the restaurant in an hour. There’s no way you’re going to make it on time. You shoot off a group text to your family, letting them know you were going to be late, and hastily tried to pull yourself together. You headed into the bathroom, splashing your face with water and taking the time to clean it, before you readied yourself. 

It was getting late, now, and cool air was finally gracing the beach. It gave you an excuse to pull on a pair of leggings, taking time beforehand to dress your ankle and wrap it in gauze. Examining the injury, you noticed that the claw marks actually weren’t too deep. They were little scratches more than anything, although where they had dug in did bleed. You also discovered that you didn’t feel woozy, or tired, or on the verge of passing out at any moment. You felt… Normal. He really hadn’t injected any venom into you. 

You can still hear his words echoing around your mind as you wrap the gauze after cleaning. I was just messing around. Your lips curl down, scowling as you bite back more tears. Well, if he was being honest about that, it was fucked up. It made you feel more angry than anything else. What kind of sick joke was that? Pretending like he was going to kill you? You began to tremble again as you finished and dressed yourself, but it wasn’t in fear this time. It was anger. Mers were sick and twisted. You could see why it was easy for someone to fall victim to them, though. After all… You almost had. 

Once you were finished getting yourself ready, you headed out, hopping on the electronic bike that you were going to be using for your stay here. Your grandmother had a car, of course, which you’d probably use on occasion. The bike was sturdy, though, faster than normal due to being electric. And with the maneuverability of an ocean town, even if it was a bit far from the home, biking would be better. It’d get you some exercise, too– Hard to do that when you’re stuck behind a computer screen all day, working. 

You head into the town, trying to shake off the earlier encounter. It was extremely difficult, though, as every little push of your leg downward on the bike petal, you were reminded of it. You couldn’t get the face of the mers out of your head, either– Twins! How sorry that other mer looked when he asked to explain, and how you’d just fled instead. You didn’t regret it, of course, you weren’t keen on being tricked again, but… To see the concern and guilt on his face. Almost like he was the one who did it instead of his brother. 

You give a shake of your head, trying to dismiss that notion. It was all just a game to them. Not even a game– Survival. After all, they wanted to kill you so they could eat. There were plenty of fish in the sea, but you were sure that humans probably had some very enticing nutrients compared to them, which is likely why they were hunted. After today’s encounter though… You were suddenly uncertain. Maybe they really were just cruel and hunted for sport. To think, the only reason you’re alive is because one of them had been kind enough to stop another. For what, though? Was it to lure you into a false sense of security so you’d be back? Hah. Fat chance. You weren’t going anywhere near those waters again. 

You took a moment to wonder if you should alert the local authorities of mer sightings. That would probably take care of them real quick, or at least spook them away. Then again… They were just trying to live their life. You had no reason to really go into the ocean again; You didn’t like swimming that much, after all. Other people could be endangered, though.

Your mind was a storm as you arrived at the restaurant, parking outside and locking the bike before you headed in. It was right on the boardwalk as well, and you enjoyed the cooling atmosphere and the breeze on your face as you sat outside with your family. Your grandmother had finally finished tying up loose ends for the day and joined you all. You got to enjoy some delicious food, sipping on your favorite drink as you enjoyed the evening with your family. They were staying at a local hotel, but you knew they’d leave early morning. You were going to have another day of rest and exploration around the town tomorrow, but then after that? It’d be time for work– Only for the glass shop, though. You still had another vacation day from your actual job. 

Full of good food and tired from today’s events, you suddenly wished that you hadn’t biked all the way out here. Thankfully, your grandmother offered to give you a ride back, and you hooked the bike onto the back of your car. You still had some time to digest, though, walking around the little beach city with your family for another hour, window shopping and sifting through any shops that were currently open. You bought yourself a cute little trinket, and finally parted ways with your family after some hugs, kisses and well wishes. 

You were grateful to finally be back at your home away from home, though. It was dark now, and although it was still relatively early, you figured you’d just go to bed and start the day early. Miraculously, when you’d been out, you’d managed to push all thoughts of the mers out of your mind. Getting out of the car, though, you glanced towards the ocean after you’d shut the door. In the gleaming moonlight above, you could’ve sworn that you spotted the flick of scales and a tail curl back down into the water. It was enough to make your heart speed faintly, which made you quickly take your bike down from the back of the car and hurry inside. 

“Is there anything else you need for your room, dearest?” Your grandmother’s voice draws you out of your thoughts, and you desperately try to lower your pounding heart rate. You know your grandmother is perceptive, but she doesn’t seem to catch on, thankfully, also appearing quite tired after the long day. 

“No, I’m– It’s perfect. Thank you.” You finally respond, forcing a small smile to creep across your face. You want to disappear into your room and sleep, but there’s this forlorn look on the elder woman’s face as she gazes towards the living room sofa. Your grandfather had died two weeks ago, cremated and ashes spread to sea today. Although this wouldn’t be her first night without him, you were certain everything felt more real, now. “Do you want to watch a show? I hear that a new baking one premiered tonight.” You offer a suggestion, quietly, coming forward to place a hand on her shoulder. It’s one of her favorite things to watch, and you’re quite partial to it, too. She startles a bit, as if not expecting you, but turns her head towards you and offers you a small smile. Her soft, cold hand comes to rest upon your own. 

“I… That would be lovely. Let me get us a drink while you set up.” She suggests, and the smile you offer this time is more relaxed as you nod. You settle on the couch, turning on the television and flick to the appropriate channel. She comes back with two wine glasses and a bottle of rose she had stocked away, and you pour each of you a glass after you’ve opened it. The show begins, and you take the time to watch with her. It’s a fairly typical baking competition program, but you still find yourself enjoying it, especially as your grandmother pipes up with various comments. 

“Oh, I wouldn’t bake that with such little time.” Was one remark, along with, “My, my, her technique is so strange… There’s a much simpler way of doing that.” There was even a bold comment from her, saying, “I could easily do that.” That brings a laugh and reassuring agreement from yourself. Two episodes air in a row, and you watch both of them together, the bottle a little over half gone. By the time it’s over, you’re both exhausted, and after a hug and kisses on the cheek, you put everything away and get some rest. You sink down into your bed after changing into nightclothes, shuffling around for your earbuds to listen to some music before heading to sleep. 

It’s with a grumble and start, though, that you realize they must’ve fallen earlier when you grabbed your towel. A groan leaves you at the thought, and you rub your eyes, looking out the window. You eye the moonlit sky, listening to the calming sound of waves from the opening in your window. Too lazy and tired to shut the blinds, you turn over, finally managing to fall asleep. 

It’s dreamless until the very end. You feel like you’re suspended in water, floating through a viscous liquid more closely resembling amber. Your movements are slow, and each push of your limbs are tedious. There’s clicking all around you. Unseen voices whispering with hints of laughter. Something brushes your ankle. You flinch, scarcely. There’s a tug at your hair. A nip at your thigh. You try to move, but the water is thick and suffocating. Hands grip your hips, and a head comes up, pressing sharp, tender kisses to the front of your neck. You try to move your head to view the culprit, but you’re just too slow, and they’re too fast. 

A tongue runs along the front of your throat, before there’s a searing, all encompassing pain as it bites down. It’s not a lovebite, either. You can feel your flesh tearing, skin breaking, and blood begins to billow around you as you scream out. Nothing comes out, though, and nobody is here to save you this time. 

You wake with a start, heart hammering so hard in your chest you think you’re going to pass right back out again. You sit up, drenched in sweat, and try to take slow, deep, calming breaths. You clutch at your shirt, closing your eyes to try and ground yourself with the sensations around you. The fabric of your shirt. The sound of mourning doves and the sea. The faint smell that comes from the kitchen, something cooking. Your mouth is clammy, the faint residual taste of rose left on it. You finally pry your eyes open, peering at your covers and the sunlight filtering through. You can see specks of dust floating in the air, and you take the time to follow various ones until they float to the ground. 

At some point, you’ve finally calmed down enough. Your heart isn’t pounding anymore, and your breathing isn’t erratic. A shaky sigh leaves you as you flop back down in bed, pushing hair out of your face. Yeah. You were probably never swimming again. Not in the ocean, at least. For a moment, you lay there, listening to the doves croon and the waves lap at the shore. It’s only when your stomach lets out a mighty growl do you finally decide to get up. After a lovely stretch, you’re on your feet, shuffling into the kitchen with a yawn. “Good morning, dear.” Your grandmother greets, pulling out a delicious looking waffle from the waffle maker. She’s also made some other sides, which you eye eagerly, especially the fruit salad. All of the fruit looks so fresh and vibrant. 

“Good morning. Thank you for breakfast!” You smile, sitting down as some comes to sit with you after bringing over the plate of waffles and syrup. 

“Of course. You’re going to have a long day today, out and about in the town. I hope it’s relaxing, and maybe you’ll even meet some new people you can befriend while you’re there.” She insists, causing you to chuckle at the thought. 

“Maybe. It’d be difficult to leave, though, if I made any good friends.” You muse, piling your plate on with various breakfast items. She just smiles, tutting and giving a small shake of her head. 

“With how the internet is nowadays, I’m certain you can keep in contact. You could always move here as well, if you were interested. I wouldn’t mind having a permanent roommate.” She suggests, and you hum contemplatively at the offer as you begin to stuff your face full. It’s certainly a thought… Plus, it may even be cheaper than your current place of residence. Even so, you like being around more city or suburban areas. It’s what you grew up with, and you couldn’t imagine anything else right now. 

“I’ll think about it. Quite the kind offer.” You reply after swallowing. The rest of breakfast goes by quietly, and after you’re finished eating as well as helping to clean dishes, you decide to head out. Your first order of business is going to get your earbuds. Although the thought of being anywhere down near that shore again makes an array of goosebumps flush over your skin, you decide that if your earbuds dropped anywhere, it would be far away enough from the shore. You’d be safe. Part of you wishes you could take someone with you, but that was a fruitless thought. Your grandmother couldn’t make that trip down there, so you had to put on the big pants and do it yourself. 

It was shaping up to be another warm day, so you decided to put on a flowy shirt and some shorts. You showered, re-dressed your wound, and got yourself ready. After pulling on another pair of flipflops, you were almost out of the house before you heard a gasp. Looking over, you saw your grandmother peer down at your ankle, and that’s when you remembered the gauze there. You’d forgotten about it, even if you had rewrapped it not even five minutes ago. “What happened to your ankle?” She fretted, walking over to you. You hesitated, taking a half step back, shifting from foot to foot. 

“I… Went down to the beach yesterday and… Accidentally scraped my foot against a rock.” You lied, and why did you lie? Were you embarrassed about it? Surely not, but… Well… Okay, perhaps a bit. After all, the only reason you almost did die was because you were dumb enough to waltz forward up to a mer. You realized that you were still keeping quiet about it, though, when you’d thought about reporting it to the authorities. You should just tell her the truth. Maybe she knew who to talk to about it. This could save lives. 

“Oh, you poor thing. Can I take a look at it? I have some cream that could help.” She offers, holding out a hand. Although this is the perfect opportunity, you find yourself stepping back again. Why aren’t you being honest?

“N-No, that’s fine! I’ve already cleaned it and dressed it for now. It will be okay. Thank you, though.” You smile, meekly, grabbing the bike key. She offers you another worried look, but doesn’t press. 

“If you’re certain. Have fun today, and call me if you need anything.” She says, and you thank her before taking your leave. You’re still trying to fathom why exactly you hadn’t been honest as you make your way back down the stairs, hesitating as you near the bottom. All you can see in the water right now is… Well, nothing. Just vast blue as far as the eye can see. Your steps are still hesitant as you touch down on the sand, and you decide to take your sandals off for easier walking. It’s still early out, the sand retaining the cool morning air, but it feels nice to squish between your toes as you head back down to where you were yesterday. 

In the distance, you can spy the alcove you had settled near, as well as your flipflops. Your sunhat is nowhere to be seen, though. Probably blew away again. Well, whatever… Probably for the best. You’re not sure you’d ever wear that thing again anyways. Now comes the fun task: Finding your earbuds. You grab your other shoes and set your current ones aside, settling on your knees as you sift through the sand. You manage to find one easily, but the other is giving you trouble. Focused in your task, you don’t see something rise out of the ocean in your peripheral vision. 

“Hey!” A voice calls out, and you gasp, nearly dropping your one bud. You look over, and it’s that same mer from yesterday. You instantly begin to feel your heart drum faster, and you get to your feet, ready to flee again despite him being over fifteen feet away and only half on the shore. “Don’t leave, please! I’d like to talk to you.” You notice that he sounds awfully more polite today, and when you take in the sight of what you can see from his tail, that’s when you realize; This isn’t the same mer. His blue is brighter. A little more vibrant, with seafoam green patterns that shimmer in the soft sunlight filtering through the clouds. 

Upon further inspection, you notice that he even seems a little nervous himself. He’s smiling, but it’s tepid; Uncertain. Where he holds himself up, you can see a finger tapping anxiously into the sand. He looks ready to dart, but not at you. Away from you. There’s a tension to his muscles that screams he’s not sure if he wants to be here, but more that, perhaps, he’s forcing himself to be. It doesn’t completely lower your guard, but it does give you a pause from immediately fleeing. Your own muscles are tense, though, and you slowly turn fully back towards him. You crouch once more, near where you had been. His muscles don’t relax, but you see his face soften more. Less concerned, now. 

He takes a moment, then, as if he’s suddenly unsure about what to say. You most certainly don’t speak up, wringing your hands together anxiously as you wait for something to happen. Anything. “I, um…” He starts, now suddenly seeming a lot more nervous as he takes you in. “My name is Connor. What’s yours?” He finally introduces himself. You just peer at him, wondering how a mer has such a common human name. It’s awfully strange. 

You finally offer your own name, quiet, but loud enough to carry over the breeze. He repeats it, smiling just a bit wider, and you find your heart picking up speed again for an entirely different reason this time. “Listen, I just wanted to apologize for my brother’s actions yesterday. It’s… Not often at all we get to interact with humans, and I think he just got a bit too excited.” The smile falls from his face, more into a grimness. “That doesn’t excuse what he did, of course, but I just want you to know that he truly didn’t mean any harm.” You’re not quite sure you believe him, and clearly that thought reflects on your face, because Connor’s face falls just a bit more. 

“We don’t kill humans. I swear on my life. We really, barely interact with any.” He promises, face serious, head bowed a bit, although his gaze still holds yours. There’s a lot of questions on your tongue that you have, but you’re trying to choose the most important one right now. After all, time may be limited. This could be a trap. What if one flew out of the ocean and dragged you in? 

It’s a glaringly preposterous thought, but there have been rumors that mer were able to shift and form legs. If that was true, one of them could creep up on you in the sand without you knowing. 

…What a silly idea. There’s no way. Right? 

If you’re feeling unnerved, so is Connor by the look you see on his face. He is apologizing… Mers will trick you. It comes floating back to your mind. Your hand grips your shorts. You finally ask at least one of the questions on your mind. 

“How do you know coast tongue so well?” You ask, and you can see his shoulders droop a bit in relief that you actually are talking to him. 

“We have a good human friend. He took care of us after we were… Left our home.” He looks like he’s choosing his words carefully, at the end. You squint. Was he lying? “He lives nearby. Has a home on the coast like yourself.” He glances over yonder, and you look that way also, up the cliff, but don’t spot anything. Must be more secluded and further out, then. Your eyes are drawn back to the water as you hear a hiss, and the telltale sound of clicking. You feel your blood pressure spike up as another figure emerges from the water, and boy is he imposing. 

You notice immediately that he looks also very similar to Connor, except his complexion is paler. He’s broader, with darker hair and cold, distrustful stormy blue eyes. His jaw is sharper, and the scales on his cheeks are darker as well, but you can’t see any of his tail as only his shoulders and above are not submerged. He doesn’t look mad, but he certainly doesn’t look friendly. You’re still a decent distance away, but even you can feel the icy glower he’s giving you. Connor looks down at him, looking a bit exasperated, and the figure disappears back into the water with a silent ripple. “...That’s my other brother.” He explains, and suddenly you’re on edge. How many more were they?

“...Are there more than just the three of you?” You ask, worried, and he shakes his head. 

“It’s just us. Other mers don’t like to come around here. Awhile back, sealife population was scarce, which meant for more difficult hunts. It’s repopulated since, but others still stay away.” He explains. Well, that would explain a few things… You could only hope that distant pods wouldn’t catch wind of it and come swarming back over. Three mers was enough, even if some of them seemed… Well tempered. You’re surprised to find that you’re a little more relaxed, now. Your heart has calmed since the other mer swam away, and ponder about what he had said to Connor. He seemed upset. What were you talking about? Oh, right. The human. You wonder if that had anything to do with it. 

“What’s the human’s name?” You ask, curious if he was known around town, or even if your grandmother knew him. “The one that takes– Or, took– Care of you.” Ah, that must have been it. You can see uncertainty crawl back onto the mer’s features, and he shifts a bit in the sand, curling his tail a little further up to reseat himself. Part of you wants to back off. You don’t want to pressure him if he doesn’t want to talk about it… Then again, the other part of you is petty with how you were scared half to death the other day. That, and you still don’t completely trust him. 

“How’s your injury?” He deflects, and you’re certain you see a deep blue fin crest just behind him before slinking back down into the water. That other mer is still around, then. “It’s not too bad, is it?”

“It’s fine.” You reply, a bit stiffly, glancing behind you where you kneel. You decide to adjust yourself as well, moving to sit on your bottom, now with your legs in front. His eyes catch onto the wrapped appendage, brow creasing a bit. “He… Didn’t inject me with any venom.” You admit, brushing the sand off of your knees and calves. 

“No. We only do that to prey.” He explains, as if trying to further convince you of his insistence that you weren’t going to be food. You can see a bit of color come to his cheeks. “And, um… For… Other things.” He admits, a little quietly, and you tilt your head to the side. 

“Like what?” You ask, curiosity piqued at how he seems to look a little squeamish now. You see his tail flick up out of the water, softly slapping back down in contemplation. 

“Well… I’m not entirely sure how to say it in coast tongue, but it’s… Potent for other mers, too. It also can be in humans, if injected in lower doses, and not the normal doses we would inflict for… Prey.” He grimaces a bit at the thought, but that doesn’t answer anything. You just stare at him, a little blankly, and he squirms again. “It can be used for, ah… Mating.” He finally decides on, and it takes you a moment to realize what he’s implying. 

“Like an aphrodisiac.” You conclude, and he looks a bit confused. 

“A what?” He asks. You try to put it eloquently, but instead it just comes out a little more blunt than you’d like it to be. 

“It’s something that makes you horny.” Your own cheeks heat up as you say this, but Connor is still looking bewildered. God, you’re putting your foot in your mouth. “It– That’s the feeling you get when you want to mate with someone. When you’re in heat. Kinda.” You explain, hoping he understands, and he seems to. Semblance of knowledge flashes across his face, and he nods his head. 

“Yes. Exactly like that.” Well, that would explain why humans always felt so drugged and tired when they were dosed ‘lethally’. You’d never experienced an aphrodisiac, but the descriptors felt similar. Before you could mull on it anymore, though, it suddenly occurred to you how strange this was. You were sitting here, talking with a mer about how their toxins could apparently be used for sex not even a full day after you’d nearly been drowned by one. Or, at least, caught by one… 

For a moment, you both just sat there in silence, unsure of what else to say. You weren’t keen on getting to know the mers, really, not after your encounter. It seems that Connor’s brother– The one who had harassed you– Must’ve felt the same, as he wasn’t here today. It was just the mer in front of you, and the other one skulking about in the water. You listened to the distant sounds of birds, faintly tickling your ears, and that’s when you remembered the whole reason you came down here. You looked over, beginning to sift through the sand once again for your missing technology. “What are you doing?” He spoke up, resting on his stomach now. He crossed his arms, chin coming to rest on them, and you couldn’t help but wonder if he had anything better to do than lay here and watch you. 

“Looking for my earbud.” You explained, and his head tilted to the side. It reminded you of his brother, with the way that curl drooped down his face. Gosh, he really was handsome… That thought certainly didn’t leave you. 

“What’s that?” His eyes flash in curiosity, and you turn your body a bit to look in a different area. 

“It’s something I use to listen to music.” You pause, glancing at him. “Do you know what that is?”

“I… Do.” He replies, perking up at first, before something seems to cross his mind that stops him from saying anything else. You search more in silence, before he breaks it again. “Do you have a favorite music?”

“Favorite song.” You correct, quietly, brows furrowing in frustration as you can’t find anything still. “I have a few favorites. I can’t choose just one.” You admit. You move your hand more, digging deep until finally you manage to grab hold of it. Must’ve gotten buried from your haste yesterday. 

“Can I listen to one of them?” He asks, lifting his head up, watching you brush and blow the sand out of the bud, trying to clean it out as best as you can. You glance over at him, unable to keep your face away from the curious look in his eyes. Genuine curiosity. It doesn’t look like something that could be faked. If you thought his brother had some boyish charm to him, Connor certainly blew him out of the water with his. 

“...Why me?” You suddenly find yourself asking, frowning as you turn your attention back to him. The look on his face instantly begins to melt away, and you keep firm from trying to backpedal and give in. Now he was certainly a sad, wet puppy. “It seems like… You all try to keep yourselves secret. Secluded. I understand why, but… If that’s the case, why would your brother risk it all by talking to me?” Connor seems to shrink down a bit from the question, curling in on himself a bit, a soft grimace overtaking his features. 

“I… Don’t know. You’d have to ask him.” He says, so quiet that it’s almost carried away by the ocean waves. “He wants to talk to you again, though. Maybe you could talk to him later.” He suggests, perking up a bit, only to flatten some as he sees the unenthusiastic look on your face. You’d have to see if curiosity would get the better of you. 

“...I should go.” You finally declare, getting to your feet. You brush the rest of the sand off, grabbing your two pairs of shoes, and tuck your earbuds away. 

“Will you come back?” Connor asks, and you can’t help but to feel a flare in your chest at the hopeful sound of his voice. You pause after you take a step, sparing a small glance back at him. He looks as hopeful as he sounds, and it makes you hesitate. Uncertainty prickles under your skin. 

“Maybe.” You finally reply, turning and plodding down the beach. You don’t get a response from him, but you can hear shuffling as he drags himself back into the water, disappearing from sight. You spare a glance back as the spot he was once in washes away, hiding any evidence of him.

[panda-writes-kpop]

Poly! JiBo (JiU x SuA) x Reader - You've Earned This, All of This (Requested!)

A/N: Hi guys, girls, and non-binary pearls! I hope you all are doing well. I'm looking forward to getting a well-deserved break during Thanksgiving, and I hope the rest of you get some time to relax and enjoy yourselves as well!

TW: Just fluff, mentions of DC's first win in case that makes you emotional

Summary: After receiving their first win, JiU and SuA are in need of some comfort. Luckily, you're at the ready to comfort and love your favorite girls in the world. 🥰

♡ Masterlist ♡

The day had finally come. After years and years of waiting, you're able to watch their first place finish on a music show live, and you couldn't be prouder.

Although it broke your heart to see your favorite girls in the world crying their eyes out for everyone to see, you knew how much this moment meant to them. They'd been working so hard for so long, and they finally got the recognition they deserve.

Now, it is time to celebrate and wipe the tears away, and you quickly prepare to leave the house and meet the girls at their dorms.

You knew that JiU, SuA, and the other five Dreamers would be busy with celebratory Vlives, pictures, and so much more. You only wanted to help, comfort, and celebrate, so that's what you did.

Before arriving at the dorms, you stop into a local supermarket. You grab three bouquets of flowers: a simple yet colorful assortment of pastel daisies for your sweet JiU, a collection of the finest red roses around for the shining star named SuA, and a bouquet of five different colored tulips that the other girls could fight over.

The drive over to the dorms doesn't take long, and you're inside of the building before you know it. A manager met you by the front entrance, and you had the tulips over to them.

"Make sure the others get those flowers."

"I will," They nod, "but you should go to JiU and SuA. They're waiting for you in the lounge area."

The company managers knew you were coming as you always try to call before you make an appearance. Although SuA, JiU, and some of the managers deemed this to be unnecessary, you were still trying to be polite. Plus, it guaranteed you some quality time with you and your girls, which didn't happen very often.

You quietly enter the lounge area, and your heart swells at the sight in front of you. JiU and SuA are cuddling on the couch, and occasionally, one of them will sniffle before wiping a spare tear away.

You mentally coo at your girlfriends before taking another step into the room. You make your appearance known by clearing your throat.

Their heads snap up to you, and you smile at both of them.

"I believe a celebration is in order, right?"

You offer the flowers to each girl, and you notice that they both begin to tear up.

"Oh, baby… I can't-" SuA's voice cracks before she begins to sob.

"Honey, you're too sweet." JiU softly mumbles as tears run down your face.

You manage to squeeze between the two girls before wrapping an arm around each of them.

"I'll always be here for you two, okay?" You try to reassure them with gentle touches and sweet words. "You've earned this… all of this. Don't feel bad for crying, especially in front of me or everyone that loves you, like your fans and staff."

SuA immediately buries herself within your body, which makes you smile. JiU, on the other hand, gently leans towards you while playing with a strand of your hair.

"I love you so much." JiU softly whispers against your skin, which makes you shiver.

"Me too." SuA mumbles from her position against your chest.

You chuckle before talking.

"I love both of you to the moon and back."

[t-0ne25]

“I’m running out of time.” — Option B1.2: Ruby

[Make sure to please read Chapter 25 of Red Lights first, before you continue.]

“Can I buy this one, Lia?” you ask the cashier, when handing her the ruby necklace, before you reach for your wallet.

“Of course, dear,” your friend answers. “How come… you’re dressed like this?” Her words are hesitant, trying not to offend you in any way.

“Oh, yeah, uhm… long story. We should catch up soon, I’ll text you, yeah?”

“Sure. Red has always been your colour, by the way. I would show you the matching earrings for this necklace but unfortunately they’re sold out,” she lets you know.

“No, issue, Lia. Let me know once you have them again.”

Lia smiles, trying to hold back a giggle, knowing exactly who bought them and for who they bought them, “I’ll let you know. And text me, yeah?”

You wave her goodbye, before you leave the store and finally head home. When you get inside the apartment building, your suitcase is right in front of your door, since Ryujin probably placed it there. You carry it inside, bringing it to your room. Taking a look at your nightstand table, finding a velvety box, similar to the ones at the set of Red Lights.

Just when you’re about to get closer, your door creaks open, revealing your roommate behind it.

“Y/N? You’re already back?” he questions, his voice small and his eyes red from all the tears. You contemplate asking him why he’s been crying but decide against it. You already have your suspicions that it’s because of you.

“Yeah… uhm, Hyun, what is this? Who put this there?” you ask, pointing at the box.

“I… I placed it here as a present when you went on that family trip. I wanted to confess to you after it. I… I forgot to take it away again… I– I’m sorry for making this awkward, now that you’re taken and all,” he cringes.

“Oh, so it’s a gift for me?”

Obviously it’s for you, Y/N, it’s inside your room, after all.

“Do you still want to have a look at what it is? Y-You don’t have to, Y/N. I know I fucked up. More than once,” Hyunjin says, his voice filled with anxiety.

“Sure, I will look at it,” you say before taking the box in your hands. You carefully open it, getting surprised with a pair of red earrings—matching the necklace you bought earlier.

“Wow… they’re my favourite colour,” you let out.

“Yeah. These are ruby gemstones. It stands for love and passion, the person at the store said.”

“I know,” you giggle. “Good thing I am not taken, right?”

“W-What?”

Hyunjin looks at you dumbfounded.

“I’m already back again because I quit. During the finale,” you confess now.

“But… why?”

“Mostly, because of the show itself. But also because it seemed weird to finish it if you weren’t there,” you tease him.

“But you threw me out of the show,” Hyunjin reminds you.

“I know. People make mistakes, I guess.” You shrug your shoulders. “Why didn’t you confess to me earlier, Hyun? Why did you pull all that toxic shit?”

You think he deserves getting these things thrown at him. Although you talked about Halloween night, you’re still hurt about what he said behind your back when he was so wasted.

Hyunjin takes a deep breath, ready to be completely honest with you now, “Because I’m fucking insecure and know that I will never in this life be good enough for you on any level.”

His voice is shaking, his heart has never beaten that fast before.

“I don’t care. At the end of the day, I still want you and this makes you more than just good enough for me,” you reply.

He shakes his head no, guilty conscience getting the best of him, “Y/N… we can’t be together, not after all this…”

“After what?”

“After everything I’ve done,” he says. “Not telling you about Minho being here. Halloween night. Just all that.”

“Do you regret it?”

“Of course I do,” his sniffles fill the room, when the tears take over him again. “How can I make up for this?”

“Take me on a date,” you say.

That’s the last thing he’s expected you to say. After all, Hyunjin thought you wouldn’t even be friends anymore after the show.

“What?”

He stares at you in disbelief, thinking you’re just playing with him and he wouldn’t even be mad at you.

“You heard me. Take me on a date. Show me that you’re serious about us. That you’re not a coward,” you explain, crossing your arms in front of your chest.

“S-Sure, just let me get changed into different clothes and you– wait, why are you wearing a wedding dress?”

“Still from the show,” you tell him, already grabbing out fresh clothes from your wardrobe.

“Is half an hour enough for you?”

You nod, before you disappear inside the bathroom.

💻

The autumn breeze feels fresh on your skin, when you’re on your way to your shared apartment. You carefully carry the pizza boxes under your arm and the two soju bottles inside your hand. Once you’re at the entrance door, you realise you forgot your keys, deciding to ring the bell in hopes your boyfriend is already at home.

He lets you inside, reaching for all the things you brought with you.

“I’ve already prepared the table, baby,” he says, when he takes your hand and guides you to the living room where the huge dining table is located. There are candles spread out on the wooden surface, shrouding your apartment in a warm shade.

“Happy six months anniversary, Hyunjin,” you tell him, when you’re finally seated at the table, ready to eat dinner and have a drink. Once you’ve finished your meal, your boyfriend takes care of cleaning the dishes, while you make yourself comfortable on the couch, searching for a film that will end up playing in the background very soon.

Truth be told, half an hour later, you find yourself lying on the couch, as Hyunjin is hovering above you, placing sweet little kisses on your skin. Your shirt landed somewhere on the floor some minutes ago, exposing your bare body to him. Hyunjin looks at you for a moment, knowing that no artwork he’s ever created will come even remotely close to your beauty. He sighs, letting out a ‘wow’ before he helps you out of your baggy pants.

The ruby earrings and necklace look stunning on you, just like they did nine months ago when you wore them for the first time. Hyunjin is so lucky that you gave him another chance and during those nine months of getting closer—including half a year of being official—he’s done more than his best. He’s the one for you, you would have realised earlier if he had the guts to show you properly.

But this doesn’t matter to you anymore. He made up for it, has treated you like his queen since then, still a little nervous about everything since you are his first actual girlfriend.

You’ve parted your legs for him now, as Hyunjin already dives in, getting a taste of your delicious scents. His tongue expertly grinds over your clit, as two of his fingers work you open.

“Yeah, just like that, pretty, you’re such a fucking good girl for me, hm?”

Despite being together for so long now, your boyfriend still takes his time to stretch you, get you ready for his big cock.

“Shit, I can’t believe you’re mine… this pretty pussy is all mine, yeah?”

Faster than you’re able to grasp it, he’s scissoring you open, his digits hitting that spot inside of you, while his mouth stays attached to your pussy. 

“Baby, please, right there,” you blurt out, your hands playing with his hair, guiding him just how you like, as you tuck the strands from time to time.

“You taste so fucking good,” he hums against your wetness, as slurping sounds fill the whole apartment.

A little later, you trip over the edge, when you cum over his fingers and tongue. Your boyfriend helps you ride out your high, listening to your sweet little whimpers, before he licks away your juices. Hyunjin slips his fingers into his mouth next, unable to withstand getting a taste of you, while a whimper spills from his lips.

When you see the tent inside his sweatpants, precum already leaking through the grey fabric, you automatically reach for his covered dick. You start palming him through the material, feeling him grow harder. But Hyunjin has other plans. Tonight, he doesn’t need anything from you. You’re the centre of his attention.

“No, tonight is only about you, pretty. Let me make you feel good, yeah?”

⬅️ GO BACK TO LEAVE FEEDBACK

© j-0ne25 2023 | copying, translating or stealing my work is prohibited

[quartzalynlove]

Die Trying

Pairing: Cloud x reader

Summary: it was chaos at the pillar, but why did you have to caught in it

Warnings: angst

A/n: got this prompt (and probably a lot of future ones) from a finish the story book I have

Maybe it was faith, maybe stubbornness, maybe something else. Maybe you didn't know the risks. But still, he had to admire how you wouldn't leave him behind.

The pillar was coming down, and Reno and Rude were berating what was left of Avalanche with every last shot they had. It was just you and Cloud. Biggs and Jessie didn't make it, and you were still searching for Barret. You all knew trying to stop Shinra from dropping the plate was a suicide mission, but the Avalanche motto was "save the planet or die trying". The group had taken a few hard lumps in the past, but they were all bruises compared to this.

Biggs was like a brother to you, Jessie was your best friend, and Cloud, pinned beneath a collapsed wall with dust invading his pressured lungs. He was the best thing that ever happened to you. The two of you were inseparable before he became a soldier. Once he left, you began to realize how deeply you cared for him. Tifa was a saint for staying with you all those anxious nights you stayed up worrying about what could happen on the battlefield. You even prayed on occasion, but no gods could help you now.

The battlefield was overseen but never interfered. You could feel the eyes of gods watching as your hands cut and scraped against the debris suffocating Cloud. Neither of you were sure how long you had been there, but he knew it was too long.

You strained yourself, crying in pain, but the wreckage wouldn't budge.

Cloud saw the tears streaming down your face as he struggled to breathe with broken bones and collapsing lungs. He coughed from the dust that still hadn't cleared before finding your eyes. Although they were broken, begging please with their red tint, the love still remained. He was glad he would see it one final time.

"Find Barrett." Cloud rasped from under you.

You quit struggling with the rubble and looked down at him in disbelief. You should've known Cloud would pull something like this, try to make you leave. It was a miracle you didn't lose him the first time, and by every higher power you could name you wouldn't lose him now.

"Yeah, right, you're coming with me." Your hands returned to the wall that still wouldn't move.

"Y/N," his voice was weak and it sent a chill running through your bones. "If we both die here, the mission wouldn't mean anything."

Why didn't he think that you knew that. To hell with the mission; you couldn't do anything without Cloud. You needed him. You loved him.

"Stop," your voice broke as you screamed. "Don't do this, Cloud, don't make me leave you!"

You couldn't will your arms to lift again, and you collapsed onto fallen wall, sobbing. Cloud watched you sadly from underneath.

"Save the planet or die trying"

You hadn't lived under that mantra for long, but the words had coursed through his bloodstream for a long time now, and it was time for him to see the end.

After letting out all of your tears, you sat defeated on the floor, your eyes lost and confused. You looked at Cloud.

"It's alright, Y/N," he had the audacity to sound so content, so accepting. It wasn't fair.

The limited and dust filled air was finally bringing Cloud to his end. He look at you one last time, the last image he wanted in his head before it all went black.

"I love you."

You sniffled, squeezing your eyes shut as if you'd open them again and he would be fine, but that wasn't the case.

"I love you too."

[jjtheresidentbaby]

hi hi hi i’ve recently found your little jj stories and they make me happy stim so much 🥺

a request is maybe jj is poorly on a case? she has a headache or a cold and stuff and all she wants to do is curl up in emily’s arms and rest bht it’s a kidnapping case and they have limited time.

maybe she ends up falling asleep at the table? maybe like with a drink in her hand or whilst eating and the group find it super cute then emily gets her settled down somewhere to sleep whilst they keep working on it??

i really wanna start writing agere criminal minds fics but idkkk🥺

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ sickness & sleepiness ໒꒱ ⋆ﾟ⊹

|| jennifer jareau x emily prentiss

a/n: I’m so glad you like my writing!! and you should totally start writing, my dms are always open if you wanna talk concepts <33

warnings: Jj being sick, pet names, mentions of a case

-

The whole team could tell Jj was feeling sick today, her flushed cheeks, constantly sniffling nose and drooping eyes gave her away, although the sweatshirt and blanket draped over her despite the dry Texas heat definitely made it extra obvious. Emily’s tried to help the most she can, as has Hotch who graciously put Jj on map making duties with Reid as they try to track down a kidnapped little kid.

There isn’t much anyone can do to help Jj, Emily’s already given her medicine and a package of saltines for when she feels ready to eat something. It doesn’t help that Jj’s headspace has come on unexpectedly because of the sickness, Hotch has locked off the room they’re all in for Jj’s sake, but Emily is still full of worry.

She knows Jj doesn’t like regressing while at work nor does she like having a lot of people around while she’s small. She supposes maybe Jj being so caught up in her constant shivering switching to overheating state is helping her distract herself from the teams hovering, which they’re all doing. Everyone’s aware that Emily’s is Jj’s main caregiver, and to get Hotch if she isn’t available, but that isn’t stopping them all from doing what they can to help Jj.

“Honey we gotta go to a warehouse where the suspect might be, are you going to be okay here? We can have Rossi stay back if you need.” Emily’s hand pushes the hood off of Jjs head so she can reach to feel the back of her neck, it’s still warm as it was earlier, she hopes the medicine has kicked in and that’s just from the blankets.

“I’ll be okay.” It’s barely a mumble, an attempt at a smile on Jj’s lips that eases Emily the slightest amount. No crying is a good sign.

“Ok darling, we’ll be back.” Emily dashes out to the svu’s after that, pushing all her worry for Jj down, as best can at least, and starts to listen to Morgan’s ramble of how they’ll be entering the building.

-

The warehouse stunt goes over a little longer than Emily was hoping, though she’s happy the little kid was able to be reunited with their mom with only minor injuries. She’s ready to get back to her own little.

Entering the room the Texas police have allowed the BAU to overrun for the past week instantly brings a warm smile to Emily’s face. Jj’s in the same seat she was in before they left, the package of saltines loosely in her hand as her head lays against her arm on the table. There’s a small pile crumbs and a few crackers look ready to slide right into the floor, Prentiss quickly picks up the package before turning to where Jj’s still dead asleep. Not even a twitch at the team entering the room.

“Jj? Darling?” Emily rubs her hand up and down Jj’s arm, careful not to jostle the girl too much in hopes of avoiding her waking up panicked.

“There you are, we finished the case, we only have paperwork to do.” A lazy smile and a slow blink of half-awake-ness is all Emily gets in reply, she’s okay with it, Jj needs her rest and she has a hard enough time sleeping anyways. Prentiss can’t imagine it’s any easier while sick.

“Hotch said I could take you back to the hotel and Reid will catch up on our paperwork.” Another nod and Emily decides she’ll have to do this the hard way.

She comes to pull Jj to her feet, allowing the blonde to slump into her side with almost all her weight. Emily brushes the blanket off Jj’s back so it falls into the chair, despite the protesting groan Jj let’s out, if it wasn’t the stations blanket she’d have taken it with them. Instead she grabs Hotchs suit jacket that he holds out knowingly, pulling it over Jj’s shoulders and leading her out to the svu that she’ll be able to sleep in the backseat of.

Jj lays down with a few grunts of displeasure at being in the car, and that Emily can’t stay back there with her as she has to drive. Emily’s just happy she’ll be able to watch over her little girl in full focus tonight.

-

[ridiculously-over-obsessed]

hurt/comfort prompts #2 pls! (i was hoping you'd reblog the list 😄)

Djskldjdf hurt/comfort is my wheelhouse I couldn't resist that list when I saw it 😂 also please consider this my formal apology for what's about to transpire 😬🩵

Hurt/Comfort Prompts

(although I would totally understand if no-one wanted to ask for another prompt ever again after this 😭)

(2) "You can hold my hand, if it makes you feel safer."

Beca ran a hand through the hair as she stepped through the Emergency Room doors, looking around her as she tried to find the person who had frantically called her.

"Becs?"

"Chloe...." Beca breathed, stepping through the crowd of people towards her pale and trembling friend, a frown pulling at her eyebrows, "You're hurt."

"I'm fine." Chloe shook her head, tears in her eyes as she swallowed thickly, one arm in a sling and a dressing taped to her forehead, "It's just a couple of scrapes and bruises, it's nothing."

"Yeah, you're right, they just give slings away for fun." Beca snorted, "What happened?"

"I was driving her to the airport..." Chloe's voice was suddenly very quiet, looking down at the floor as Beca gently encouraged her to sit down again, "Like I always do, it's the same route we always take, I wasn't speeding or running stop signs or-"

"Hey." Beca felt her stomach knot seeing Chloe so visibly distressed, wanting to soothe her, "Chloe, no-one thinks this was your fault."

"He just came out of nowhere." Chloe shook her head bitterly, tears streaming down her cheeks, "He plowed right into us Beca, one minute we were talking, and the next everything was upside down and she wasn't moving or talking or anything..."

"I'm sorry Chloe..." Beca sighed, "That must have been really scary for you."

"It was." Chloe sniffled, "I... I'm really glad you came Becs, I didn't want to sit here alone."

"Of course." Beca shrugged, "Look, Posen and I might not be best of friends, but she's still family. I wanted to be here. The other Bellas are coming too, they're just finishing up their classes."

"She loves you in her own weird way, you know that right?" Chloe looked up from her lap, "She's just... closed off Beca. You get that right?"

"Yeah." Beca nodded, "I do Chlo. Are you sure you're okay?"

"I'll be fine." Chloe shrugged, "I'm just scared Beca. I don't think I've ever been this scared in my whole life. I'm a really safe driver, I pride myself on it, today's the first time I've ever felt unsafe..."

Beca sighed softly again, her stomach in knots. Chloe had been beside herself, almost incomprehensably hysterical when she had picked up the phone an hour ago, and no wonder. Aubrey had come down to visit the Bellas in Georgia for the weekend as she often did, freshly graduated but finding she still missed spending time with her sisters. Chloe didn't have any classes the morning she was due to fly back home, so she had offered her a ride to the airport, a chance for the two of them to spend a little one-on-one time together before Aubrey went home.

So when Beca got a call from Chloe that they'd been in an accident not twenty minutes after they'd set off, her heart had dropped like a lead weight. She could hear the sound of sirens in the background, Chloe sobbing into the phone, Beca able to make out words like 'unconcious' and 'blood in her ear'. She and Aubrey had their differences last year, but by the time the ICCA Finals had rolled around they had buried the hatchets, closer than Beca had ever thought she'd be to her type-A pain in the ass captain.

Beca had made quick work of alerting the group chat to what had happened, distressed text messages following her own, with promises that they would all join Beca and Chloe as soon as they could. She had spent the whole way there trying to wrap her head around events, trying not to think of the worst case scenarios, not just for Aubrey but for Chloe too. She had spoken to her, had been responsive and alert even if she'd been upset, Chloe was okay. She had to be okay.

"It's going to be okay." Beca mumbled, moving a little closer to Chloe, "This is Aubrey Posen we're talking about, she's a stubborn ass, no way she's letting a little car accident keep her down."

Chloe managed a small giggle, pursing her lips as her uninjured hand tugged at the hem of her t-shirt absentmindedly, "I'm really scared Becs. What if she's not? They took her in for brain surgery..."

"You can hold my hand, if it makes you feel safer." Beca gave her a small smile as Chloe looked up from the floor, "Or less scared or whatever... just don't tell anyone I offered, I have a reputation to maintain."

"Thanks Beca." Chloe reached and took Beca's hand, squeezing it tightly as she closed the gap between them, resting her head on her shoulder to boot, "I'm really glad you came."

"Of course." Beca could feel her cheeks turning red as she felt Chloe's breath on her neck, swallowing hard against the lump of unspoken feelings in her throat.

"Have you called her folks?"

"Yeah, they're getting the next flight out from North Carolina." Chloe nodded, "I didn't tell them much, just that we'd been in an accident and Aubrey was on her way up to surgery. I didn't want to freak them out before they got here."

"That's a good call Chlo." Beca nodded, savouring the smell of Chloe's shampoo as she turned her head a little to rest atop hers.

She would never admit it out loud, but Beca had been stone cold terrified on her way here that something awful had happened to Chloe that she had played down over the phone. The idea that Chloe could be hurt or dying when she wasn't there to try and fix it made Beca feel more lost and scared than she'd ever been in her life. Whether it was just a schoolgirl crush or something more, Beca could no longer deny that the feelings she had for Chloe went beyond "she's my best friend", not after she'd had to pull her car over to throw up at the side of the road because the fear had turned her stomach.

"I'm staying right here until someone comes to tell us what's going on." Beca gave Chloe's hand a squeeze, "You don't have to be scared on your own. That's what family's for Chloe."

"I know." Chloe nodded a little, "Thank you."

Beca didn't say anything, simply holding Chloe's hand in hers and watching the hustle and bustle of the ER waiting around them. It wasn't long before she felt Chloe grow heavier against her shoulder, breathing deep and even as she still held her hand tightly. No wonder she'd fallen asleep, after everything that she had been through today Beca would probably have fallen asleep too. She hoped it was a testament to how safe Chloe felt with her here.

It was three hours of sitting in uncomfortable chairs, of Chloe snoring softly on her shoulder and the Bellas arriving in droves to sit with them, before someone finally came to give them an update.

"Aubrey Posen?"

"That's us." Beca gently stirred Chloe from her nap on her shoulder, "How is she?"

"You're family?" The doctor frowned a little as he looked around at the women staring expectantly at him.

"Yes." Beca's tone grew sharper and irritated as Chloe bit her lip, rubbing at her eye with her uninjured hand, sensing the panic that was already starting to radiate off her.

"We're her family. She'd say as much herself."

"Okay." The doctor nodded, "She's out of surgery now, and on her way to the ICU. We managed to stop the bleeding on her brain, and repair the lacerations to her spleen and liver too. We're still worried about her kidneys, and we won't know about lasting brain injures until she wakes up, but she's out of the woods for now."

"What are her odds on being completely fine?" Beca pushed, feeling Chloe's hand slide back into hers and grip it tightly.

"As of right now, about sixty percent." The doctor was calm as the Bellas seemed to crumple at the news, "I know that seems really low, but it's the best that we can hope for right now."

"Right..." Beca rubbed at her forehead with her free hand, "Can we see her?"

"Not right now." The doctor shook his head, "I'm sorry, but once she's been moved to the ICU we can think about visitors. I'll let you know when that is."

"Thanks." Beca mumbled, running her thumb over Chloe's knuckles as she felt her start to shake against her again, "We'll be right here."

The doctor left the Bellas to sit with the news, Chloe whimpering softly as she clung to Beca's hand.

"She has to be okay Beca..." She whispered, Beca able to feel her tears against her neck, "She has to be okay."

"I know." Beca mumbled, sighing heavily as she looked around at the Bellas, knowing they all shared the same sentiment, "She will."

-----

Aubrey pursed her dry lips, brows furrowing as the world swam sluggishly into view. She felt heavy and slow, like she was wading through treacle as she tried to lift her hand to rub at her sore head.

"Hey... you're awake."

Aubrey managed to turn her head towards the familiar voice, finding a grinning Beca sat next to her, feeling her hand take hers.

"How are you feeling Bree?"

"Ow." Aubrey rasped, Beca's grin growing, "Water?"

"Uh, hang on, let me grab some ice chips, that's what the nurse said you could have." Beca quickly got to her feet, leaving the room for a second and returning a few seconds later with a cup full of ice chips.

She silently helped a few slide past Aubrey's cracked lips, fighting the malestrom of emotions inside at seeing her former acapella captain's eyes open again.

"Better?" She asked as Aubrey sank back into her pillows, looking utterly exhausted.

"Mhm." Aubrey mumbled, eyelids flutterung shut for a moment, "Thanks."

"No problem." Beca settled back in the chair next to her bed again, the same place she'd been sat for almost a week now, "It's good to see you awake Posen, you scared the crap out of us for a minute there."

"What happened?" Aubrey's eyes opened slowly again, Beca scooting her chair a little closer.

"What do you remember?"

"We set off for the airport..." Aubrey huffed out a sigh, "Chloe was telling me about your setlist for the ICCAs and then... nothing."

"You were in a car wreck." Beca took her hand again, "It was pretty bad Bree, like brain surgery bad. You've been in a coma for almost a week."

"Chloe." Aubrey's hooded eyelids flew open as realisation hit her, "Is she okay?"

"Um..." Beca swallowed thickly, eyes flicking down to her feet again, "Not really. We thought she was, that it was a couple of cuts and bruises and a dislocated shoulder but... there was a bleed that they missed, it didn't show up on any of the scans they did."

"What... what happened?"

Beca looked up, stomach in knots as she saw the tears in Aubrey's eyes. She'd never seen Aubrey cry, never seen her look so scared and so lost, and she hated it. She was the strongest person Beca knew, if Aubrey fell apart she didn't know how she'd keep herself together.

"They rushed her in to operate and repair the damage but um... she... she didn't make it off the table."

Beca felt sick again as she relived the moment that the surgeon had somberly stepped out of the operating room, how her legs had gone out from underneath her, how she had let out a scream so painful and tortured it felt like she had ripped herself open. It felt like she had, like losing Chloe had robbed her of part of herself too. She didn't remember much of the immediate aftermath, just snatches of sobbing and numbness, of Stacie cradling her in her arms as she cried herself sick, of the Bellas grief as raw as her own.

Beca hadn't left the hospital since that day, telling herself and the Bellas it was because she had to be there to tell Aubrey what had happened when she woke up, but it wasn't the whole truth. She couldn't go back to the house, couldn't walk past Chloe's bedroom knowing she wasn't in there and she wouldn't ever be again. Aubrey's parents would have told her about Chloe, would have arguably been far better at comforting her than Beca would, but she didn't want that. It had to be Beca that told her.

"No..."

Aubrey's expression crumpled as her hand tightened around Beca's, tears starting to run down her cheeks.

"Beca it's a mistake."

"It's not." Beca felt her own tears burning at the corner of her eyes again, "I wish it was Bree, I'm so sorry."

Aubrey opened and closed her mouth a few times, trying to find her words but none came. Instead, she started to sob harder, Beca getting up from her seat and onto Aubrey's hospital bed, careful of the wires and tubes as she embraced her. Beca hated hugging people, hated people being in her personal space, but she knew that if Chloe were here she would never forgive her for not comforting Aubrey like this. Beca wasn't a hugger, but Chloe was, and right now Aubrey needed Chloe and not her.

"I'm sorry." Bexa whispered into her hair, voice thick as her own tears starting to take over, "I wish it was me instead, I'd give anything to switch places with her."

"She- she l-loved you." Aubrey sobbed against Beca's chest, "It's n-not fair, she was supposed to t-tell you, y_you were supposed to- supposed to-"

"She did tell me." Beca's words stuck in her throat as she tried to soothe Aubrey, "It... it was the last conversation we had."

-----

"What's taking them so long?" Chloe grumbled, head resting on Beca's shoulder as they stood in front of the vending machines.

"I don't know." Beca sighed, looking at the contents of the machine in front of her, "You'll be able to see her soon Chloe, they'll be making sure she's okay to have visitors."

Chloe simply sighed, her good hand still holding Beca's. She hadn't relinquished her hold of her hand since Beca had offered it to her for more than a few seconds, Beca surpisingly not saying a word about it. Maybe she needed the comfort as much as Chloe did.

"We were talking about you."

"What?" Beca's attentin was torn from the selection of snacks in front of her, "Why, what did I do this time?"

Chloe giggled as she shook her head, lifting it from Beca's shoulder as she grinned at her.

"Why do you think it was bad?"

"I dunno." Beca shrugged, "It's Aubrey, she's nit picky, I always assume I did something wrong."

"You're so dramatic Beca." Chloe rolled her eyes, "You didn't do anything wrong, not this time anyway."

"Okay..." A smirk started to pull at Beca's lips, "So why were you talking about me then weirdo?"

"Because I love you." Chloe's grin dropped to a smile, squeezing Beca's hand as she lent into her, "Because I've loved you from the moment we met and Aubrey was trying to convince me to tell you rather than keeping it bottled up."

"Oh." Beca had gone bright red, brain short curcuiting as she tried find any words that were better than 'oh'.

"And it's okay if you don't feel the same." Chloe shrugged a little, "Because I still want to be your friend Beca, even if you don't feel the same. But life is way too short to... to not..."

Chloe had started to sway slightly, a frown starting to pull at her expression as the coliur drained from her face.

"Chlo?" Beca frowned, letting go of Chloe's hand so she could Chloe's face in her hands, finding her brilliant blue eyes to be hazy and unfocused.

"I don't feel good..." Chloe mumbled, starting to crumple in Beca's arms.

"Chloe?!" Beca caught her, lowering them both to the ground, "Hey! Someone help!"

Beca's attention turned back to Chloe as she shook her gently, trying to keep her awake as she heard people scrambling around her to find some help.

"You're okay." Beca shook her head, lips pursed, "Chloe wake up, you're going to be fine, c'mon. You don't get to say something like that and then die in my arms, that's dramatic even by your standards."

"I..." Chloe was trying to find her words as her eyes searched Beca's, "I..."

"It's okay." Beca shook her head, brushing her her from her eyes, "Chloe it's okay, I love you too. I love you, please don't die on me."

"Beca..." A small smile tugged at Chloe's lips as she grew heavier in her arms, Beca frantically looking around them for someone that was coming to help, "I k-knew it. I knew Aubrey was right... I... love... you..."

-----

"This one's for you Chlo." Beca mumbled, hand rising up to briefly clasp the necklace she wore.

It was almost six months since Chloe had died. Six long, achingly empy months that Beca had endured while trying to navigate this new normal. Aubrey had needed extensive physical therapy to learn to do basic things again, teaching herself to eat and walk and put her own clothes on from scratch. Beca and the Bellas had been there every frustratingly small step of the way, putting up with Aubrey's mood swings and her short temper no matter how often she snapped at them.

The Beales had arrived in Georgia not long after Aubrey had woken up, and things had progressed quickly from there. Far too quickly for Beca as she watched them pack up Chloe's room, removing every trace of her from the Bella House, wanting all the pieces of theor daughters life to grieve over. That was what she had thought anyway until Chloe's mom had quietly entered her room with a large box in hand, setting it next to Beca on the bed and then holding her as Beca had sobbed into her chest.

Chloe had told them all about Beca, about everyrhing she felt for her best friend, and neither of her parents had any desire to take Chloe away from her. So a box with some of Chloe's jumpers, her CDs, her journals and some other sentimental items were Beca's to keep, as was a part of Chloe herself.

She had been cremated, and Beca was given a necklace that had a portion of Chloe's ashes stored safely within an intricate heart design. Beca hadn't taken it off since she had been given it at the funeral, somwhow having a part of Chloe like this had lifted some of the crushing weight from her chest.

Chloe was still with her, still with their family as they all returned to the rountine of college, and eventually of the ICCAs. Beca hadn't wanted to at first, hadn't wanted to perform without Chloe by her side, couldn't face the prospect of having to fill the hole in their choreography or their vocals that had been left.

But when Aubrey had insisted that Beca continued with their plans for this years competition, had all but bullied Beca out of her bed and into a rehearsal, Beca realised she didn't gave to. Not this year anyway. The gap in formation would remain, the missing layer from their vocals wouldn't be restored, and that was okay. It was their way of honouring Chloe, of grieving a loss too big for words. There was no filling Chloe's spot, and that was okay, because no-one could ever fill that gap for them. They would always be a family member down, and pretending otherwise would do none of them any good.

So now, in front of the judges, their fellow acapella singers, and fans, the Barden Bellas would perform in the ICCA finals for Chloe. They would bring home the trophy for the woman who had always believed in them, even when they didn't believe in themselves.

As they sang and danced, performing their hearts out, Beca felt as though Chloe was watching, that if there was some kind of heaven she was sitting on a cloud somewhere and cheering them on with an enthuasism that far outpaced the packed crowd in the theatre. She looked up in the seconds before her solo, half convinced that she could see the beaming grin of the woman she loved shining back at her before she stepped forward.

This one was for Chloe.

"One by one, only the good die young... they're only flyin' too close to the sun, and life goes on... without you..."

Beca had made it through qualifiers and regionals and the quarter and semi finals without shedding a tear, too numb with loss to register the emotions behind her choice for this set as the fast paced number mellowed and sombered. But in the bright lights of the Lincoln Centre, knowing this was her last time performing this set, performing for Chloe so openly, she felt them welling in her eyes with such a force that she was amazed she could still sing.

"Another tricky situation, I get to drowin' in the blues, and I find myself thinkin', well, what would you do?"

"Ooh..."

As the Bellas harmonised around her, Beca let her head drop for a moment, trying to pull herself together to finish. She had to finish, this was for Chloe, she had to keep going.

"Yes, it was such an operation...

"Ooh."

"Forever paying every due.. "

Beca looked gratefully to Sracie who had picked up her solo, breaking formation to stand with Beca and shore her up. She gently wiped a tear from Beca's cheek, her own falling as freely as Beca nodded that she was okay to continue.

"Hell, you made a sensation! You found a way through..."

Beca poured everything she had into her next lines, head high as she belted the lines not to her audience but up high into the air, up to Chloe who she knew was watching them.

"Touch my tears... with your lips... touch my world... with your fingertips... and we can have forever... and we can love forever... forever is our today!"

Beca didn't care if she permanently damaged her vocal chords as she continued to belt out her lines, suddenly so raw and emotional after months of trying to put all her feelings to one side so she could get out of bed. The whole world fell away, Beca left on stage alone as Chloe stood in front of her, tears in her eyes as she reached for Beca, Beca's hand streched out for the hand she knew she wouldn't be able to grasp, desperate to touch Chloe, to hold her hand, to be with her just one more time.

"Who wants to live forever? Who wants to live forever? Forever... is our today..."

The Bellas had joined Beca again, their choreography tossed aside as they moved into a tight line either side of their openly grieving sister, Stacie and Amy practically holding her up as Beca's shaking body managed to produce the final line of their set.

"Who waits forever anyway?"

The lights went down, plunging the stage in darkness, the audience erupted in applause and cheers, but Beca didn't notice any of it, sobbing hard as her legs finally gave out underneath her. It was Stacie that lifted her from the ground, carrying her backstage as Beca fell apart, every ounce of emotion that she had poured into their set tearing her soul to pieces.

"I w-want Chloe." Beca choked out as Stacie held her tighter still, now sequestered backstage with the Bellas around her, "I w-want her b-back!"

"I know." Stacie whispered into her hair, "I know Becs. She'd be so proud of you, that was incredible."

"I want Chloe." Beca whimpered, "I want Chloe."

There was nothing any of them could say, and they knew it, her family instead choosing to move around until all of them had huddled together in a tight embrace, Beca cocooned in the centre of them, raw and bereft as they came together to comfort the one person who had not once fallen apart on them until now.

"I'm here Becs."

Beca knew Chloe wasn't really there, that she wasn't really stood their with them, but in that moment she didn't care, screwing her eyes tighter shut so that she could cling to this illusion a little longer.

"I love you Beca."

Beca could've sworn she felt fingers gently slotting with her own, felt a head pressed against her temple.

"It' okay Beca. You can hold my hand, if it makes you feel safer."

[dakotakazansky]

Ghost • Seven

Previous | Master List | Next

Warnings: 18+, Fluff, Angst, lots of Dumb Bitch Juice, Some Smut

Pairings: Jake ‘Hangman’ Seresin x OC & Javy ‘Coyote’ Machado x OC

Word Count: 2,196

Kota

The following morning Jake and I got to base way earlier than we expected. It's a nice breezy morning so we get out of his truck, and lean against the driver's door. I'm tucked into his left side and he's got his left arm wrapped around my shoulder.  It's times like this where I fully take in our height differences, him being 6'0 and myself at 5'2. 

I cross my arms over my chest and take in the hustle and bustle sounds of the base, although something about it seems off to me. It's not nearly as noisy as it should be for the amount of movement that is going on around base. 

Without realizing it I rest my head against his shoulder and he rests his cheek against the top of my head. We stand here in silence enjoying each other's company for what feels like 5-10 minutes before Jake ultimately breaks said silence.

"Alright Kota, what's going on inside that pretty little mind of yours?" He questions after taking notice of the look on my face and my lack of rambling about whatever is usually on my mind.

"I don't know honestly, it's just that the base looks busier than normal, but the sounds that usually coincide with said movement aren't present." He pays attention a little more than he was before and I point out certain things to him to further explain my thoughts. 

I take out my phone, and shoot off a series of text messages. Jake watches me send off these messages before asking, "Who are you texting?" I look up to him, showing him my phone screen and the messages, stating, "My dad." 

I start to feel a little anxious after we finished reading the conversation between Iceman and I. Like magic Jake can sense the change in my demeanor and tries to cheer me up with, "Haha did the legendary Iceman finally use an emoji in the correct context?" I laugh at his comment, "Yeah, he actually did, I'm such a proud daughter," I say acting like I'm wiping a tear from my eye and fake sniffling.

"So something is amiss, and he doesn't have much details, and he calls you Koty?" Jake says that last part curiously.

"Yes, yes, and yeah it's a childhood nickname that only he's ever called me" I reply to each of his questions. I look up at him still tucked into his side, "Do you think we might end up getting deployed?"

He shrugs, responding to my question, "I'm not sure if we will, but I guess the next few days of training and drills are going to be intense to prepare us in case it comes to that" he says, while softly rubbing my left arm to try to comfort me.

I chew on my lip, debating if I want to say what I'm thinking right now. Without making eye contact I whisper somberly to him, "Jake, I know how badly you want to get to Top Gun, but please promise me, if we get deployed that you won't be a cowboy in the sky like my Uncle Mav, don't leave Tate and I."

He pulls me tightly against his side resting his cheek on top of my head again, whispering back, "As long as you promise me the same thing Kazansky, I know you fly just like your dad and uncle. No funny business, unless necessary."

I know Jake means business, because he never calls me by my last name unless it's during work. I hold up my pinky finger in front of him, he takes mine with his pinky finger, and we both say, "I Promise." 

It's almost time to go into the hangar, and we finally see Tate and Javy show up. I look over to Tate and wiggle my eyebrows at her, a discreet way of asking about what happened last night, and she just shakes her head no at me. I frown in response to her. Javy takes off to his hangar while the three of us walk into ours, and take our seats at our tables. 

Once everyone has piled in and the work day begins we hear, "Attention on deck!" Our entire squad snaps up immediately out of our chairs. "At ease." Commander Davin says. "Todays training is going to be a little more rigorous than last weeks, there is a possibility we could end up deployed, in the coming weeks, and it's our job to make sure each and everyone one of you is ready for that." 

Commander Davin looks around the room to each and everyone one of us, making brief eye contact with all of us. "Today you are going to be flying with your wingmen, your job today is to shoot me down before I shoot you down. It'll be no guns, only missiles.”He pauses.

"Hard Deck again is 5,000ft, if you break the hard deck you're out. If you're out, it's 100 push-ups. You'll see Dozen once you land.  First group, Apollo and your Wingmen Bambi and Reno. The next group will be called after them, listen in over the radio, learn something." 

And like that Commander Davin, callsign Jaws, Apollo, Bambi and Reno went out to their jets, did their checks and took off for dogfighting. From what we could all hear, Bambi was having a hard time shaking Jaws from his tail, while Reno was requesting help from Apollo.

Unfortunately for them, Jaws caught on to the fact that Apollo was going to be no help to his wingmen, and took off after him, getting him in missile lock immediately. Not long after that poor Bambi and Reno were caught in missile lock too, and all 3 of them returned to base, and began their 100 pushups. 

The next group was Ditch, U.T.A. and Rudy. I honestly was hoping they wouldn't last in the air long, Ditch always left his wingmen, and was once found in a ditch, Uta always talked way too much, and Rudy was a rude ass, all of their names were fitting, and we just wanted them to get the shit show over with.

Within minutes of being in the sky, both planes were in missile lock, and heading back to the tarmac. We all knew that group needed to get it together, otherwise it was always going to end up this way. 

Hangman, Villain and I were next. We did our checks and followed Jaws up into the sky. Jake was flying ahead of Villain and I, while Villain was watching the radar from my backseat, I searched all over the sky. "Do either of you see him anywhere?" I question both my WSO and wingman.

They both replied, "Negative Ghost." Suddenly we hear the sound of the Jaws theme music being sung through the headsets, and Villain turns to look for him, "Ghost, he's 7 o'clock low!" I heard from Villain. "Ghost, do you trust me?" I heard coming from Hangman, "With my life apparently." I responded back. 

"Break left, swing back around!" I hear, and do as I'm told, as soon as I'm clear from his jet, Hangman hits his brakes and goes flying backwards behind Jaws, but not before Jaws whips around and is on my tail. "Hangman he's on me, get him off!" I yell.

"Break hard right Ghost!" I hear from Villain, and I break right, hoping this gives Hangman a chance to fall in behind Jaws and get him. "Come on Hangman, get him off me!" I yell back.

"Ghost remember trust me," I hear from Hangman, "Ghost fly up, brake now!" I again do as told flying up for altitude, and then hit my brakes as Jaws and Hangman fly past me, I swing around, and realize what Hangman has done, he's got me perfectly lined up to get Jaws in missile lock.

I take the shot and the tone comes out ringing in Jaws' ear. "Good job, Hangman, Ghost and Villain. Return to the tarmac, no pushups for you guys." 

We return and park our jets in their spots, and walk back to the ready room to listen in to the last group of Dice, Ducky and Sunshine. They did pretty well in trying to get Jaws into missile lock, but unfortunately fell short, and ended up getting themselves caught.

If there was any other group in our squadron to be paired with on a deployment or mission, it would be this one, they communicate well and seem just as tight knit as Jake, Tate and I.

The rest of the week was pretty much about the same as the first day but each day getting more difficult, and practicing different things, one day was missiles, one day was guns, another was different aerial maneuvers, and then the last two day were putting them all together, and dealing with more than one bogey at a time. 

It was now Friday afternoon and earlier this morning they had told all of us to meet back in the hangar after everyone finished their drills. We weren't allowed to have our phones on us while we were in the hangar, they had to be locked up in our lockers, so I couldn't text my dad to find out any more information. 

Tate, Jake and I, had finished our round of flight training and drills and were already in the hangar, along with two other groups, we were just waiting for Ditch and his group to come back in from training. I nervously played with my hands waiting to find out what's going on.

Tate spoke up, "What do you think they want to tell us?" I looked up to meet Jake's green eyes who gave me a look to calm me down, before looking to Tate to reply, "My best guess is that they are either telling us we're getting deployed soon, or telling us everything has resolved itself." 

About 20 minutes later Ditch's group came back, with annoyance and frustration on their faces, we could tell they had another day of getting their asses handed to them in the sky by Jaws. They take their seats as Jaws approaches the front of the room.

"As some of you may have noticed around the base, it's been quite a bit busier than normal." Some of us nod, and some you heard faint yeahs or mhmms. Jaws continues, "This is what we've been training you for, we've officially gotten orders that we are to be deployed."

My heart falls to my stomach, I'm excited because like Jaws said this is what we've been training for and this is what we signed up for, I just wasn't expecting it to come so soon. 

"We have a carrier that we've lost communications to out in the Pacific Ocean. Our job while we are there is to provide air support to said carrier, while our communications crew goes aboard that ship to assess the problems and damages."

A few sighs of relief can be heard throughout the room, because this sounds just like a simple mission to provide cover to our crew. "We board the carrier starting Tuesday morning, so you have Saturday through Monday off, we'll meet back here in the hangar Tuesday morning at 0600 hours." Jaws continued. "You're dismissed for the day." Jaws finishes, while everyone gets up to leave. 

The only thought I can process through my head as we walk out to Jake's truck is holy shit, we're actually being deployed. Coyote meets us at Jake's truck as he had promised to take Tate home, he looks over at me, while I'm still focused on the thought of being deployed. "Uh, Ghost you okay over there little buddy, you look like, well like you've seen a Ghost." Coyote says. 

I blink a few times and try to push the thought out of my head, "Yeah I'm good, we just got word our Squad is being deployed Tuesday morning." I reply back to him leaning against the door of Jake's truck.

"Holy shit dude, do you guys know how long you'll be out there?" I just shrug, Jake chimes in, "Honestly we aren't certain, it sounds like a quick mission though. We are free for the entire weekend though, including Monday, maybe we should all meet up Sunday at the Wrecking Bar for a night out before we have to deploy." 

We all agree to that and go our separate ways for the day, I climb into Jake's truck, and slide into the middle of the bench seat in Jake's truck. We both buckle up, and he looks over at me, "Kota you're a legendary flier, you've got nothing to worry about, this will be a breeze."

I sigh softly, "I know, I'm still nervous for it though, since it's our first deployment." Once he's got the truck in drive, he lifts up his right arm putting it behind me and around my shoulder, "Come here" he says while pulling me gently against him, and rubbing my arm softly. "Thank you." I mumble, before that damn thought gets stuck back in my head, deployed.

Previous | Next

Taglist:

@mayhemmanaged @roosterforme @startrekfangirl2233 @desert-fern @roostette @cassiemitchell @sarahsmi13s @lavenderbradshaw @lovinglyeternal @bradleybeachbabe @roosters-girl @thedroneranger @cherrycola27 @twsssmlmaa @bobby-r2d2-floyd @that-one-random-writer @horseshoegirl @footprintsinthesxnd @genius2050 @djs8891