#and I really don't trust Amazon with this

[auncyen]

wow. amazon changed their checkout to push prime more and even when I keep selecting 'not right now' it pretends like it's loading and then goes back to the prime question. They are so desperate to upsell that I am now going to do 0 of my Christmas shopping through them.

[doodlemancy]

Hey, so, Patreon is lying to you about Apple forcing their hand.

Patreon is getting rid of 1st-of-the-month/per-creation billing, claiming a new decision by Apple has forced their hand. This will hurt a lot of creatives, and their excuse is bullshit. Allow me to explain.

In 2018, Patreon tried to impose a new ill-considered fee structure on everyone that would have cost creators a lot of smaller pledges. They ended up apologizing for this profusely; they have now deleted this apology from their website and unfortunately I was unable to find it on the Internet Archive. This was shameful, but to their credit they backed off quickly when things got ugly.

Back in 2021, Patreon discussed plans to force all creators into a rolling bill structure and get rid of first-of-the-month/pay-up-front billing. The community once again very decisively shouted them down, and they had to walk it back again. This whole fiasco damaged the already shaky trust between Patreon creators and staff.

This week, Patreon announced that, along with extra fees, Apple's policies were supposedly forcing them to move everyone over to the rolling fee structure that they first tried to get us to agree to in 2021. Patreon will tell you they are not happy about this. As a person who spent a long time watching Patreon make terrible decisions, I can tell you-- they are probably very happy about this, because it's exactly the smokescreen they needed to do what they've been trying to do for years, which is pull ALL Patreon creators away from 1st-of-the-month and per-creation billing.

The spin in the news I've seen so far is "Apple bullies Patreon, boo hoo hoo poor Patreon". This is very obviously not what's happening. Mind you: Apple does suck, and they are doing something bad here. Fuck apple. But Patreon and Apple are BOTH the asshole in this situation; Everyone Sucks Here. Patreon has options: they can make the iOS app a reader app and do billing through the browser to avoid the restrictions and the extra fees (Netflix and Amazon, notably, both do this), or they can allow creators to opt-out of iOS billing if they want to use billing models that don't work with it.

It seems most likely to me that the Apple situation is a real fire that Patreon has chosen to use as a convenient smokescreen to do what they've been wanting to do since at least 2021, and maybe since 2018.

What do we do?:

They have a feedback form specifically about this.

They also have a creator discord.

And they have lots of social media pages where they probably really, really hope that this doesn't blow up again, because they never learn. The incidents I've described here aren't the only two other times Patreon has pissed off their creators. They know if they don't contain the noise it'll be harder to get away with it, so make some noise. They've done a lot of work to spin this cleverly so you'll have sympathy for them and they won't get the kind of backlash they know they deserve.

Please don't misuse these links and make threats or spam or something. All you have to do is give well-reasoned feedback. Patreon hates feedback. Make sure they get a nice heaping helping of their least favorite vegetable.

[queen-mihai]

Hey, ive been really interested in your book but ive heard a whole lot of chaos that comes from companies taking money from the authors and since I dont know anything for sure, do you have a place where I can buy your book and be sure you receive as much as possible?

The main place to get my book would be from Amazon at the moment. I will look more closely at other options, but as of right now, they're the only ones who will print on demand and take care of basically the whole process for me when someone orders. They aren't much more helpful with selling than traditional publishers, but the main thing they are is *accessible*

If someone finds me a service that's easy to use, easy to access, does all the work like Amazon does, and pays better, I desperately hope they'll let me know because there are eleventy billion publishers out there and they ALL SWEAR to be the best thing for authors on the planet.

Researching this type of thing is extremely time consuming and I don't know if I can trust aggregators to compare and contrast them in an honest way so that I can make the best decision

Because when I choose a new publisher, I would like them to be my publisher for life. I don't want to make this choice again. This has been years, and it's only getting harder and more companies are being scammy and stupid and predatory. At least with Amazon I know what I'm getting

Goodness, I kinda didn't mean to info dump like this, but I need to put this information out into the world because I actually need help with this. Everybody thinks *their* publishing company is the best, but then when I look into them, there are massive problems even getting the book into their system. Or it costs money. Or the quality sucks. Or the wait times suck for customers. Or the pay rate isn't any higher after all the fees

I'm not just writing. I have an entire life to take care of, and this would take many, many, MANY hours to research.

Please, if someone is willing to help????

[anothermonikan]

Constantly needing advice over HDD replacements. Hardware girlies help. I am put a poor little programmer girl I don't know what I'm doing ^^;

[kurohe]

Things you can do to actively participate in the revolution

Here's the list !

I know some of those will look really silly, i promise they are not. And obviously, this is not a checklist, you don't have to do everything. But they're steps that you can absolutely take if you wish to, and they WILL help.

(Thanks everyone for your help, and for adding things yourself with your reblogs <3)

(under the cut !)

1) Let's start off with a very easy one you can do right now: stop using Chrome. It's a google owned browser, and it sents all of your data towards it. Mozilla is a very good replacement, but almost anything will do, really. Also, resign your amazon prime subscription. We revolting against capitalism as a whole, and this is a good first step to not freely give em your data and money

2) Start stealing things from supermarkets and malls. I am not kidding. Little things, that aren't really monitored: a can of food, a lighter, a pair of socks. Condiments are particularly easy to hide in bags or pockets. Steal hygiene products, steal food.

Remember that you should have access to those for free, and you don't because a few rich guys don't want you to.

Additional tip: train station stores are very easy to steal from, because they're so busy. But don't put yourself in danger. Check beforehand if they check bags at checkout, look out for employees that might notice what you're doing. Don't be reckless.

(edit: imma say this, you should read up on what the risks of stealing are, for you and others. Stealing from big stores is IMO always morally right, but it is risky for many reasons. Be careful)

3) In the same line, if you see someone stealing anything from a big store, no you didn't.

4) I know a lot of people are scared of disrespecting rules. By fear of being caught, or by guilt. My advice is: start disrespecting stupid, meaningless rules. I don't have specific exemples, but you'll encounter them and wonder why you're doing that. Stop doing it. This will train you to be able to disobey autority way easier.

5) Put stickers everywhere. If you already have them, go ham. Especially on public property (lamposts are amazing). If you don't, buy them from artists or independant stores, not big brands. If you cannot afford them, remember that you can simply write stuff on an A4 paper and plaster it to walls. Or even post its !

6) Carry a sharpie with you at all time, the big black ones. If you see propaganda, scribble it out. Keep a look out for terfs stickers, maga posters, etc. Also good for getting rid of transphobic and sexist stuff written on public restroom stalls !

7) Buy locally. This means going to the market or small stores, and thrifting your clothes. If you can't for money or accessibility reasons, try trading with your friends, family and neighbours. Get communication going in your circles, and you'll realise there are a lot of things that you can simply trade with or buy from people around you. Like a jar of jam against some eggs, or a pair of socks for a t-shirt you don't wear anymore !

8) Learn how to sew. I know, that sounds dumb ! But i promise you, not only will it be amazing to trade with other people ("i'll sew back ur shirt and in exchange, you give me a can of peaches !"), corporations also haaaate when you know how to fix your clothes. Because they want you to buy more. You'll spend a lot less money if you know how to fix em

9) If you have the space and the money, grow your own food, and share it or sell it around you. Be careful, some assholes will call the FDA on you. Do that with people you trust.

Additional tip: growing vegetables and fruits can be a real nightmare. You can absolutely start by just growing some basil or mint :)

10) Organise. Join leftist groups online, even if it's just to see what's being said, you don't even need to interact. Follow creators, repost and share their content. By doing that, you'll stay informed on group movements like strikes, protests and boycotts, which you can then participate in. It's very important you're connected to other ppl and the movements that are started !

11) Unionize. I'm very sorry I don't know the exact way unions work in the US, but if you can, join one. They will help you in times of needs, especially if you're a student or a worker. If you're not sure how to do that, absolutely ask around to people you know are very active politically, around you or online. People will help.

12) Stay. Informed. Follow independant papers and news outlet. If you can afford it, give them a dollar or two. They are fighting everyday for access to unbiased information for all, and sadly, their independance means that they rely almost entirely on donations and people simply engaging with what they put out.

If you can't access those: do not get your news from TV. Ever. Or anywhere else that has been bought by the far right. Sadly, the majority of TV channels are just the worst.

And, most importantly: fact check. All of the time.

13) Share that information. Talk to those you trust and who are ready to listen to you, and tell them about what's happening. Get angry with them. Revolution stems from people coming together and realising that they're being used and profited off of. Share videos and posts relating to politics, especially informative videos.

14) Go to protests ! If you've never been, i know it can be scary. But you can stay in the middle (don't go all the way to the front, that's where stuff can get heated) and scream and walk with everyone else. You'll meet people who, like you, want things to change. Capitalism wants you to stay as unconnected to others as possible, and that's a great way to fight that.

Sometimes, there are sites that have a planning for all protests happening in a city. Look up if one exists for yours

15) Create and strenghten community. I know i really struggled with this one, because it's so vague. But here's a few places you can start:

-Go and introduce yourself to your neighbours, if you deem it safe. Give them a little gift if you can afford it, like a pack of pasta.

-Make new friends, even if they aren't deep friendships. You need connections. Online or irl, both are fine- don't stay isolated.

-If you already have community, go check on them right now. Ask your friends how they're doing, and if they need anything- ask how they're being impacted by what's happening right now politically.

16) Look for ways to fuck over the institutions in easy ways. One example that went around tumblr a lot is letting dandelions grow in your backyard, because landlords fucking hate it. If you work in retail or fast food, cheat. Accidentally forget to scan the diapers. Put in 7 nuggets instead of 6.

(edit: been told that it's very risky for walmart workers to not scan things, so beware.)

17) Engage in art. MAKE art. Music, shitty paint drawings, craft, anything as long as you're being creative. Share it. If you feel like you can't do that, then support artists. Make a point to look up cool illustrations, and new music. Go to the cinema.

If you're an artist currently in an underpaid office job, please, by the love of god, be creative during office hours. You're underpaid, they do not deserve your full time and attention. Take 30 minutes to write that snippet you've been thinking about.

(and actually, if you're underpaid at all: do the minimum required. So that you can't be fired, but that's it. Any more effort is not worth it. Companies will never be thankful for what you do.)

18) Look up books that your state banned, and go read them. You can get them secondhand, or as pdfs online. (if anyone needs ressources, i will glady look for and share them.)

And, actually, read books in general if you can. Yes, fanfics count !

19) Seek education. There's a lot of youtube channels out there talking about educational subjects in a fun way. Some things the rich assholes who run the country specifically don't want you to learn more about are: biology, history and archeology, social and economic sciences. GO LEARN ABOUT THOSE.

The people in power don't want you to be educated. It's why they eviscerated the education system.

20) PIRATE. I cannot stress this enough, anything you can pirate (that isn't from small, indie creators, except if you absolutely can't afford it) do it. Download music illegally, torrent movies and games. If you want access to academical studies and papers, some writers will give them to you for free if you email them about it. There are also ways to go around paywalls.

21) Don't fall for the traps of "progressive brands". Lately, i've seen a lot of praise for Ben and Jerry's for openly supporting lgbtq rights and being globally anti-trump. They are still a brand. Avoid buying from any big names when you can. That being said, if you have to, check beforehand which ones and what their history is. Some are more evil than others.

Additional tip: a lot of brands you see in stores are actually owned by bigger brands. One prime example of this is Nestle, who are fucking evil, but they own a shitload of other big names. Be careful what you buy.

22) I hate to say this, but be prepared to defend yourself. Revolutions are never peaceful. You will get in danger. If you can, get in ok physical shape. Learn how to run fast and fight well.

If none of those are available options to you, please, make sure you have someone around you that will be able to protect you, or a place where you can be safe. Whether you are disabled, a minor, or anything else. Don't put yourself in more danger than is necessary.

(this used to also include getting a gun. I deleted it because i don't feel comfortable recommending this. But it's still an option.)

23) Last but not least, be kind. When someone cuts off a woman speaking, interrupt and give her the floor back. Shame those who think it's right to say bigoted shit in public. Listen to those around you. If you can't act, then remember to always have empathy for the homeless, for drug users, for immigrants. Understand they are people just like you. You are not immune to propaganda and prejudice, no matter who you are. Always question yourself and your biases.

(if you've read this far, please repost. We need this to reach as many people as possible)

I want to remind you that you're not alone. I know things seem hopeless, but the simple fact that you're reading this is proof it's not. I don't live in the US, but i'm supporting you as best i can from where i am, and sending you strenght.

If you have any questions, do ask away. I'll end on this image that's very dear to me:

[ggukvnly]

➷ That Kiss ➹ ║ JJK

✦ synopsis; two best friends fake-date for a wedding, but one unexpected kiss sparks real feelings, jealousy, and a confession that changes everything.

✦ genre; fluff, angst, fake dating, best friends to lovers

✦ pairing; jungkook x reader

✦ word count; 7.5k+.

Part 2

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

The wedding invitation arrived on a lazy Thursday evening, exuding an elegance that starkly contrasted with the casual clutter of Y/N's apartment. Crafted from thick, cream cardstock with gold-foiled lettering and sealed with a wax emblem, it resembled something out of a historical drama. Y/N stared at it lying on her hallway floor, juxtaposed against her worn Converse and a half-empty Amazon package containing face masks and a lint roller.

She picked it up, her stomach sinking as she noticed a small handwritten note tucked inside, penned in Eunha's neat handwriting:

Please, you really have to come. It just won't be the same without you. You mean so much to me, and I want to share this happiest moment with you. And yes, bring your boyfriend too—the one with tattoos.

Love, Eunha.

Y/N stared down at the letter in her hands, the soft weight of the cream cardstock somehow heavier than it looked. Her mind began to wander, drifting through memories and tangled thoughts. How had her life led to this strange, almost surreal moment?

She thought about Eunha, her new friend, so vibrant and warm, who had quickly become one of the few people she truly trusted. Their friendship had blossomed fast—two souls unexpectedly connected in the bustle of a busy office.

But then, the weirdness of it all hit her again. Eunha's fiancé was none other than Minjae—her ex-boyfriend.

Minjae. He was her first love—the one who made her heart race with a joy she had never known. They had been so happy once, wrapped in the innocence of first romance, dreaming of endless tomorrows. She had liked him so much, more than she had ever admitted even to herself. But life had other plans. Things hadn't worked out the way they hoped. Minjae had to move to London, and the distance stretched more than just miles between them. The breakup was peaceful, without drama or bitterness, but it still left a hollow ache. Two years had passed since then.

A few months ago, Eunha had transferred to the Seoul office from the London branch. That's where she and Minjae had met—working overseas. They crossed paths, fell in love, and now they were getting married.

When Eunha joined the office, something about her clicked with Y/N instantly. She was warm, easy to talk to, and quickly became someone Y/N genuinely trusted. So when Y/N later found out that Eunha was dating Minjae—her ex—it caught her off guard. The timing, the connection, it was unexpected. A little strange. But she came to terms with it quickly. There were no grudges, no bitterness—just quiet acceptance. And more than that, she was happy for them. Truly. Life moved the way it wanted to.

She had moved on. No matter how much Minjae had once meant to her, those days were memories now, carefully tucked away but never forgotten. It was awkward at first, navigating this new dynamic with Eunha and Minjae intertwined in her life. But Eunha was genuine, kind, and a true friend. And eventually, Y/N found peace in the unexpected triangle fate had drawn.

Y/N was still holding the wedding invitation when her phone buzzed. It was a message from Nari.

Nari: Please tell me you got the invite. Don't even think about skipping it.

Nari wasn't just Y/N's close friend—she was also friends with Eunha and had received an invite to the wedding herself. So it made sense she knew about it.

Y/n smiled softly, about to reply when another message popped.

Nari: Ugh, I have to go back to Busan. My dad's not doing well, so I can't make it to the wedding.

Y/N's heart tightened hearing that, but Nari's teasing tone quickly followed.

Nari: But you? You better be going... and definitely with that tattooed Greek god you keep bragging about.

Y/N groaned into her palms. "I'm an idiot."

Because yes, she had invented a boyfriend—well, not invented. More like borrowed. Jeon Jungkook, her best friend and occasional emotional crutch, just happened to be real. Kind, thoughtful, achingly attractive, and absurdly aware of how girls tripped over their own feet looking at him.

The lie had been a stupid white one. They were at a cozy dinner party, and someone had asked if she was still hung up on Minjae. She wasn't. Not really. But in a moment of panic, she'd said she was dating someone new. When pressed, she'd blurted out: "Jungkook. Jeon Jungkook."

Now she had an invitation in her hand and the beginnings of a full-blown identity crisis.

Before she could spiral, she called Nari.

"You told them you were dating Jungkook?" Nari wheezed from the other end.

"I panicked!"

"You panicked and chose Jungkook? Literal boyfriend material? Sweetheart? Puppy in a leather jacket?"

"I didn't think it would matter. It was months ago. I thought she'd forget."

"She handwrote a note, Y/N. You know what this means, right?"

Y/N sighed. "I have to go."

"And take Jungkook."

Y/N closed her eyes. "I can't ask him. He's probably busy. He has clients. A life."

Nari paused. "...You do remember he once cancelled a date because your ceiling was leaking, right? Showed up in pajamas with a toolkit?"

Y/N laughed softly. "Yeah."

"You're his girl. He'd go to hell if you asked him."

"Please take care of your dad, okay? Keep me updated."

"I will. Have fun with your date, you lucky girl!"

Godhhh. And the call ended.

Baby 🫀: hey, so...

Baby 🫀: remember when I maybe said we were dating to someone

Baby 🫀: and it may have been Eunha

Baby 🫀: and she may have just sent me a wedding invite

Baby 🫀: and also called you "the one with the tattoos"

He replied within ten seconds.

Kook 🐰: i am the one with the tattoos

Kook 🐰: are we going to a wedding??? omg is there cake

Kook 🐰: also how convincing is our relationship

Kook 🐰: on a scale of "holding hands" to "accidental makeout in front of grandma"

Y/N dropped her phone, face flushed. Then picked it up again and called him.

He answered like he’d been waiting for her call.

"Well, well, well," he teased. "If it isn't my fake girlfriend."

"You're not even surprised," she groaned.

"Not even a little." He sounded smug. "You talk about me way too much. This was bound to happen."

She huffed. "Okay. Look. You don't have to say yes, but I need someone to go with me to this wedding. Just for the weekend. I'll pay for the suit. And—"

"Stop." His voice dropped into something warm and gentle. "You don't have to bribe me, Y/N. I'll go."

Her chest eased.

"Really?"

"I would do anything for you Y/n"

Y/N smiled, the knot in her chest unwinding. "Thank you, Kook."

"You don't have to thank me. You know I'm always down to be your emergency contact or fake boyfriend or whatever the hell you need."

He meant it.

She knew that.

Jungkook had always shown up.

When Minjae left for London and Y/N came home crying into a cardigan three sizes too big, it was Jungkook who showed up at her door with takeout in hand and an understanding silence. He let her cry into his hoodie, held her through the worst parts, never pushing, never judging.

They had been best friends since their first year of college. He was the one who quietly became something. He made her laugh when heartbreak threatened to swallow her whole, stayed over when her anxiety spiked in the dead of night, and somehow remembered the exact way she liked her tea: sweet, milky, with just a touch of cinnamon. Through every late-night study session, every celebration, every moment of doubt and every burst of hope, Jungkook was there. The kind of person who was both her best friend and so much more—the one who knew her better than she knew herself and loved her for all her messy, beautiful parts.

God, their friendship was everything—unshakable, comforting, and deeply real.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

The sharp buzz of the doorbell sliced through the quiet apartment. Y/N took a steadying breath and crossed to the door. She swung it open—and froze.

There he was.

Jungkook, standing in the dim porch light, looking like a damn movie star caught in the spotlight. His hair was slightly tousled, the dark strands falling just enough to brush his forehead. His eyes—those deep, intense dark eyes—caught hers and held them hostage, sparkling with quiet mischief and something unspoken. He wore a perfectly tailored white dress shirt, the top two buttons undone just enough to reveal the smooth line of his collarbone and the hint of a tattoo peeking from beneath. The sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, exposing lean, muscular forearms that spoke of strength without effort. His charcoal gray slacks hugged his hips in all the right places, and the way he shifted his weight—casual yet commanding—made Y/N's breath catch.

A slow smirk curved his lips as he caught her staring. "What's wrong? Did I just make you freeze?" His voice was low, teasing, dripping with playful confidence.

Y/N blinked, cheeks flaming. "Am I supposed to be moving?"

He stepped closer, lowering his voice to a gentle tease. "I'm just saying... am I looking that good tonight?"

She swallowed, heart pounding. "Maybe a little."

"Good." He grinned, then softened. "Take your time. I'm in no rush."

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Inside, he heard the soft click of her door opening, followed by the quiet pad of her footsteps. Jungkook looked up from where he stood, adjusting his cuff.

And then he froze.

Y/N stepped into the room, and for a second, everything else faded—the ticking clock, the low hum of the city outside, even his own breath. She looked... ethereal. The dress hugged her in all the right places, the fabric shimmering like water under moonlight every time she moved. Her hair was pinned delicately, a few loose strands framing her face in a way that made her look both elegant and soft. The glow on her skin wasn't from makeup—it was something deeper, something luminous that he couldn't name. Her eyes, bright and steady, locked onto his, and suddenly he felt like he was seeing her for the first time.

Not just pretty. Not just beautiful.

She looked unreal.

His throat tightened. "You look..." His voice cracked, and he had to swallow before continuing, softer now. "You look stunning."

And he meant it—every syllable soaked in something he wasn't ready to admit·

Jungkook smiled — genuine smile that made his eyes crinkle just enough to be irresistible.

He reached out and offered his arm.

The sleek black car waited outside, polished to a mirror shine. Jungkook slid into the driver's seat with smooth confidence, tossing the keys to Y/N to unlock the passenger door. As she settled inside, the interior smelled of leather and a hint of his cologne—clean, with a trace of something warm and woody that made her pulse quicken. They didn't speak much as the city lights blurred past the windows. Jungkook finally broke the silence, pulling from his jacket pocket a small folded piece of paper—the wedding manual.

"Read this," he said, his voice low but teasing. "Important stuff: who to greet first, where to stand, when to smile, and when to avoid dancing disasters."

Y/N laughed softly, unfolding the notes and scanning the neat, careful handwriting.

Jungkook caught her eye and winked. "We've got this."

And just like that, the night felt less daunting—and a little more like an adventure they'd face together.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Outside the venue, the soft hum of music drifted into the evening air. Jungkook stood beside Y/N, arm looped through hers.

"You okay?" he asked quietly.

She nodded, inhaling slowly. "Just a little nervous."

He looked at her, calm and steady. "We've got this, alright? Just trust me."

Y/N met his gaze and gave a small, genuine smile. "Yeah. Okay."

They stepped inside, moving together through the crowd with quiet confidence. A few steps in, Y/N spotted them near the floral arch — Minjae and Eunha, side by side under the soft glow of fairy lights.

Jungkook leaned slightly closer and murmured, "You're glowing more than the bride, just so you know."

She gave him a look. "Shut up."

They walked forward together.

Eunha spotted her almost immediately and broke into a wide, genuine smile. "Y/N!"

Before she knew it, she was being pulled into a warm hug.

"You look gorgeous," Eunha beamed, pulling back to take her in. "Like, actually stunning."

"You're the one in a wedding dress," Y/N smiled, eyes soft. "You look beautiful. So happy."

"I am," Eunha said quietly. "And I'm so glad you're here."

Y/N glanced at Minjae — standing just behind her, his expression slightly awkward, but polite.

"Minjae," she said with a nod. "Congratulations. I really wish you both the best. A lot of happiness and peace."

"Thanks," he said, lips twitching slightly into a smile. "That means a lot."

Jungkook, silent until now, stepped just a little closer.

Eunha's eyes flicked toward him and lit up.

"Oh! Jungkook, right?" she said, grinning. "I've seen you before. You've picked Y/N up from work a few times."

Jungkook smiled, just the slightest tilt of his lips. "I have. You have a good memory."

"Hard to forget someone that good-looking in a car like that," she teased. "We all used to peek through the blinds."

Y/N groaned. "Eunha!"

"What? It's true!" Eunha laughed. "You'd come out with that little tote bag, and he'd be leaning on his car like he was in some photoshoot."

Jungkook glanced down at Y/N with a cocked brow, amused. "So you never told me you had fans at your office?"

She narrowed her eyes. "I was trying to protect your ego."

Eunha was grinning from ear to ear. "You two... I honestly didn't see this coming. You guys always said we are 'just best friends,' remember?"

"Yeah, well," Y/N said softly, looking up at Jungkook for a fleeting second. "Fate's weird like that."

"It really is," Eunha agreed. "But I'm glad. You seem... good together."

There was no malice in her voice. No awkwardness lingering. Just a girl who had found her own happiness, and was genuinely happy to see someone she once worked beside finding hers too.

Jungkook held his glass up slightly. "To fate, then."

Y/N laughed. "And good wine."

They clinked glasses and stepped aside as another couple approached to greet the newlyweds.

As Y/N and Jungkook walked toward the open bar, she exhaled softly — like a little weight had been lifted.

"You handled that well," Jungkook murmured beside her, tucking his hand gently against the small of her back.

"I think I've officially leveled up," she whispered. "No tears. No awkward tension. No wine thrown at the groom."

He grinned. "I'm proud of you. Also slightly disappointed. I was kind of rooting for a wine-throwing moment."

"Too bad. You'll have to settle for civil emotional growth."

He looked at her, gaze lingering. "I could get used to that."

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

The venue was alive with soft laughter, low music, and the occasional clink of glasses. Around them, couples melted into each other—some stealing quick, shy kisses, others lost in slow, lingering embraces. The warmth and closeness in the room built like a tide, rising and pulling everyone closer.

Among the crowd, a few familiar faces from the office watched from a corner — the ones who had been told Jungkook was her boyfriend. They stood in a small circle, eyes darting between her and Jungkook with poorly hidden curiosity. The atmosphere around them buzzed with the intimacy of slow dancing and the growing closeness of every couple swaying to the music. The unspoken rhythm of the night whispered one thing: here, in this moment, it was only natural.

Jungkook's voice broke through the hum, low and steady. "May I have this dance?"

She smiled, heart skipping, and nodded, stepping into his space.

His arms circled around her waist with quiet possessiveness, pulling her closer until their bodies aligned perfectly. She slipped her arms around his neck, feeling the steady beat of his pulse beneath her fingertips. His fingers slid to cradle the back of her neck, thumb brushing softly along her jaw. It was a tender touch, but his eyes burned — dark, desperate, like he was barely holding himself together.

He pulled her in slowly at first, savoring the closeness, like he couldn't believe she was finally here — with him.

His eyes flicked to her mouth.

A pause.

A breath.

A choice.

Then — he dipped his head and kissed her.

It started soft — hesitant, like a question. But the moment it happened, something gave way. Like a dam bursting. Like breath after drowning. The kind of kiss that felt like a secret spilling between them. The kind that didn't feel fake at all.

And neither of them pulled away.

Her hands gripped his jacket, pulling him closer, needing more. Their mouths moved in rhythm — lips parting, pressing, tugging. His tongue brushed against hers, cautious at first, but as she responded, all hesitation vanished. Their tongues tangled, teasing and tasting, until the kiss turned messy and breathless, wet with heat and longing. He tilted his head to the side, deepening it further, groaning softly into her mouth. She answered with a quiet whimper, fingers threading into his hair, tugging — desperate and aching like she'd waited too long for this.

His palm slid to the curve of her waist, the other anchoring her by the small of her back as he pressed her against him fully. The world around them fell away — the music, the lights, the people. All that remained was the shared fire in their veins.

When they finally broke apart, their foreheads rested together, breaths shallow and lips red and swollen. A thin string of saliva still connected them . It was enough — the kiss said everything, and the night held its breath with them.

As the music faded into softer notes, Y/N and Jungkook finally stepped away from the dance floor, still catching their breath from the heat of that kiss. The reception began to slow and guests started making their exits, Y/N and Jungkook stood from their table, the warmth of their earlier kiss still lingering in the space between them. Without needing to say it, they both knew it was time to leave.

Eunha's eyes lit up when she saw them approaching. "You're heading out?" she asked, pulling Y/N into a quick, affectionate hug.

"Yeah," Y/N smiled. "Thank you again—for everything. It was beautiful."

"I'm so glad you came," Eunha said, her voice low and genuine. "Truly."

Minjae offered a polite nod, his eyes flicking briefly between them. "Have a safe drive."

Jungkook returned the nod with quiet confidence, standing close to Y/N but saying nothing more.

Just before they turned to go, Eunha leaned in with a teasing smile. "And hey... that dance? Let's just say the sparks didn't go unnoticed."

Y/N let out a quiet laugh, cheeks warming. "You're imagining things."

"Mmhmm," Eunha hummed playfully, but she didn't push further. "Goodnight, you two."

"Goodnight," they echoed in unison, then slipped out into the cool evening air, side by side.

Jungkook chuckled softly and linked his arm with Y/N's as they made their way to his car. The evening had settled into a calm hush, the buzz from the reception fading behind them. He opened the door for her, waiting until she was settled before sliding into the driver's seat beside her. The car hummed to life, but inside, it was silent—thick with something unspoken.

Y/N stared ahead, her hands in her lap, the ghost of the kiss still lingering at the edge of her thoughts. It had happened. It was real. But it wasn't supposed to mean anything.

She spoke first, voice calm but too practiced.

"About earlier... the kiss."

Jungkook's hands stilled on the wheel. He didn't look at her, just waited.

Y/N took a quiet breath. "It was nothing. Just pretending, right? Everyone was doing it. We were just blending in."

"Yeah," Jungkook said after a moment, his voice unreadable. "Just blending in."

She gave a small, short laugh. "We did cross a line, maybe... but it was necessary. For the act."

He nodded, but said nothing.

Y/N turned slightly toward him. "We're best friends. I hope it won't change anything between us."

Jungkook's jaw tightened at that. He still didn't meet her eyes. "It won't," he said softly.

"It meant nothing," she repeated, as if saying it again would make it true.

"Yeah," he echoed. "Nothing."

But the silence that followed said otherwise.

He kept his eyes on the road. His grip on the wheel was too firm. And though his voice had stayed steady, something inside him had shifted—just slightly, but enough.

She didn't notice.

Or maybe she pretended not to.

And they drove on, both holding tight to a truth they'd agreed on, even if it didn't feel like one.

They drove in silence for a while, the city lights streaming past like distant stars.

When they arrived at her home, Y/N hesitated at the door.

"Stay a bit?" she asked, heart fluttering.

"Not tonight," he said quietly.

She nodded, watching him drive away with a mix of longing and understanding.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

The door clicked shut behind her, and for the first time that evening, everything went still.

She leaned back against the wood, her fingers still tingling where they had touched him. The room was dark, moonlight spilling through the windows in soft, silvery lines. No noise. No people. No music. Just the quiet hum of her apartment — and the kiss still lingering on her lips.

She closed her eyes.

It had been... warm. Breathless. Real.

For a moment, she'd forgotten it was all pretend. For a moment, she'd let herself believe the way his hands held her meant something. The way he looked at her — like she was the only one in the room — that it was more than just part of the act.

But it wasn't.

It couldn't be.

They were best friends. That was all they had ever agreed to be.

She pushed off the door, tossing her clutch onto the table and kicking off her heels with a sigh. As she curled up in bed, her fingers unconsciously brushed her lips. A shiver ran down her spine.

It meant nothing, she told herself.

It was just pretending.

And maybe if she repeated it enough, maybe if she said it in her head like a mantra, she'd believe it too.

She turned off the lamp. But long after the lights went out, the memory of his kiss stayed with her, stubborn and soft and impossible to forget.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

He sat in the driver's seat for a while after dropping her off. The street was quiet, the world still — but inside him, everything was loud.

That kiss. Her words. The way she smiled, like nothing had changed.

Like it didn't matter.

He let out a shaky breath, leaning his head back against the seat, eyes staring blankly at the ceiling of the car. His chest felt tight — not the kind of tight that came from nerves or stress, but the kind that sat heavy in your bones. The kind that comes from being punched in the heart.

"It was just pretending."

He scoffed bitterly to himself, shaking his head. Pretending?

Then why did it feel so real?

Why did his hands still remember the way her waist felt under them, the way she leaned into him like she belonged there?

He had kissed her like he meant it — because he did. Maybe not intentionally, maybe not with a plan. But in that moment, he forgot it was all fake. Forgot the lines. Forgot the act.

And now she was acting like it had never happened.

"We're just best friends. I hope it won't change anything."

God, it already had.

He sat there in silence, jaw clenched so hard it ached. His fingers gripped the steering wheel like it was the only thing holding him together. He could still feel the ghost of her lips on his. Still see the softness in her eyes, the way she had looked at him — even if just for a second — like he was more than a friend.

Was he wrong? Did he imagine it?

Or had she just decided that pretending was easier than facing what was really there?

The truth stung: she hadn't felt it the way he did.

To her, it was nothing. A necessity. A moment.

To him, it was everything he had been trying to bury.

He exhaled slowly, blinking against the burn behind his eyes. He didn't cry — he never did. But damn, if it didn't feel like something inside him was breaking.

You're so stupid, he told himself. You let it happen. You let yourself believe—even just for a second—that maybe...

He turned the key and drove away, his heart heavier than when the night started.

And for the first time in a long while, he didn't feel like pretending anymore.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

A few days after the wedding, Nari had just returned from Busan. Her father was getting better, and now she was eager to catch up with Y/N. They met at their favorite cozy café, where the familiar warmth eased the tension just a little.

"So, how was the wedding?" Nari asked casually, but with a sparkle of curiosity in her eyes.

Y/N felt her cheeks warm and found herself stirring her coffee nervously. "It was... nice."

Nari leaned forward, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "Come on, spill the beans. I can tell something happened."

Y/N sighed softly, deciding to just say it. "Okay... Jungkook and I kissed."

Nari's grin widened. "I knew it! How was it?"

Y/N shook her head quickly. "It was nothing. Just pretending, because everyone else was kissing. We didn't want to look out of place. It didn't mean anything."

"We're just best friends," Y/N added firmly. "We can't cross those lines."

There was a brief silence, and then Y/N's voice dropped a little. "But... Jungkook's been kind of distant lately. I don't know why. I think I might've hurt him somehow. But we're just best friends. It shouldn't mean anything to him, right?"

Nari's smile softened. "You never know. Sometimes we get stuck thinking everything from our own side. Maybe you should just talk to him—clear things up. Communication's the key."

Y/N nodded, lost in thought. "Maybe you're right."

 

⋆˙⟡ Jungkook’s POV ⟡˙⋆

It's been a few days since I started acting distant around Y/N. I hate how I've pulled away, how I barely talk to her the way I used to. I hate that I made things awkward between us. What hurts the most is when she said the kiss meant nothing — that it was just pretending. Like it didn't matter to her at all.

But to me... it did.

That moment echoed in my mind, cutting deeper than I thought possible. I felt exposed and raw, like something important had slipped through my fingers.

I keep telling myself she's just my best friend. And that I'm the one who messed this up. The one who should take responsibility.

So I decided to invite her over for a movie night. No pressure, no expectations — just a chance to be close again, to try and fix what I let slip.

Because no matter what, I still care. More than I'm willing to admit.

Kook 🐰: Movie night at my place. You in?

Baby 🫀 : Depends. Are you actually going to let me pick the movie this time?

Kook 🐰 : Haha, maybe. But only if you promise not to pick a sappy romance.

Baby 🫀 : No promises.

Kook 🐰 : Deal. Come around 7? I'll have popcorn and my dog ready.

Baby 🫀 : The dog or you?

Kook 🐰 : Both, obviously.

Baby 🫀 : You're impossible. See you then.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Y/N's heart fluttered nervously as she climbed the stairs to Jungkook's apartment. The past few days had felt strange — quiet and distant between them — and she couldn't shake the small knot of guilt twisting in her stomach. She knew she hadn't been herself around him lately, and now, finally, it was time to try and mend things. When she opened the door, she hadn't expected to see anyone else.

On the couch sat a woman — elegant and poised, with soft curls framing her face and a warm smile that seemed natural and genuine. She was clearly absorbed in conversation with Jungkook, their heads close together over a laptop resting on the coffee table.

Y/N stepped inside Jungkook's apartment, her eyes meeting his briefly. There was something faint brushing at her heart, but she wasn't sure what it was.

"Hey," Jungkook greeted softly. "Didn't expect you so early."

"Hey," Y/N replied, a small smile on her lips.

Jungkook nodded toward the woman seated on the couch. "This is Hyejin — we've been working together on a project the past few weeks."

Hyejin stood and smiled warmly. Jungkook then turned to Y/N. "And this is my best friend."

Y/N gave a polite nod, feeling a little warmth at the simple introduction.

Y/N glanced between them. "You're busy tonight?"

Jungkook shook his head. "No, just wrapped up."

Hyejin glanced toward the door. "I should get going. I'll just take a cab."

Jungkook's tone softened but was firm. "No, it's alright. Stay for a bit."

Hyejin hesitated, but Jungkook continued, "I already made dinner. Please, have dinner with us."

His eyes briefly shifted to Y/N. "Please," he added quietly.

Hyejin smiled back, relaxing. "Alright, then. Thank you."

What was meant to be a quiet movie night for two quietly shifted into a trio — Jungkook's caring nature balancing his attention between both women, making sure everyone felt welcome.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Y/N sat cross-legged on the couch, absently scratching behind Jungkook's dog's ears as the movie played. Or at least, it 'should've' been playing. Instead, Hyejin had commandeered the remote, scrolling through options while Jungkook leaned over her shoulder, pointing at titles with an easy familiarity that made Y/N's stomach twist.

"This one's a classic," Hyejin said, tapping a thriller. "You love these, right?"

Jungkook grinned. "How'd you know?"

"Lucky guess." She smirked, nudging him with her elbow.

Y/N's fingers stilled in the dog's fur.

Since when did Jungkook like thrillers? He always groaned when she picked them, insisting on comedies or action flicks. But now, here he was, nodding along like Hyejin had cracked some secret code to his tastes.

The movie started, but Y/N couldn't focus. Not when Hyejin laughed a little too loudly at Jungkook's dry commentary. Not when she reached over to steal a handful of popcorn, her fingers brushing his. Halfway through the film, Hyejin's phone buzzed. She excused herself to take the call in the kitchen, leaving Y/N and Jungkook in charged silence.

Y/N stared at the screen, jaw tight. "She's nice."

Jungkook stretched his arms behind his head, oblivious. "Yeah, she's great. Really sharp—her ideas for the project are insane."

"I bet." Y/N's voice was clipped.

That got his attention. He turned, brow furrowing. "You okay?"

"Perfect." She forced a smile. "Just tired."

He studied her for a beat too long before Hyejin returned, sliding back onto the couch—"closer to Jungkook this time."

Y/N stood abruptly. "I should go."

Jungkook blinked. "Now? It's not even—"

Early morning tomorrow, she lied, already grabbing her bag.

Hyejin gave her a sympathetic look. "Oh no, did we pick a bad movie?"

"No, it's not that." Y/N avoided Jungkook's gaze. "Thanks for having me."

She was out the door before he could protest.

Outside, the night air was cool against her flushed skin. She barely made it three steps before her phone buzzed.

Kook 🐰: hey. you left your jacket.

Kook 🐰: also you're a terrible liar. what's wrong?

Y/N stared at the screen, fingers hovering. She could play it off. She should. But the image of Hyejin's effortless charm, Jungkook's easy laughter—it stuck in her chest like a thorn.

Baby 🫀: nothing. just didn't realize you had company.

Kook 🐰: are you jealous?

Her breath hitched.

Baby 🫀: don't flatter yourself.

Kook 🐰: then come back inside.

Kook 🐰: unless you're scared to admit something.

Y/N's pulse roared in her ears.

Jungkook appeared at the door holding Y/N's jacket, but before she could reach for it, his hand gently caught her wrist. His eyes searched hers, calm but firm.

"You're not going anywhere," he said quietly.

Y/N's breath caught. She glanced back toward the living room where the movie credits were rolling on the screen — the night coming to an end, but something unspoken lingering between them.

Jungkook turned toward the kitchen, calling softly, "Hyejin, let me book a cab for you."

Hyejin, already gathering her things, smiled warmly. "Thanks, but it's okay. I can manage."

"No, it's fine," Jungkook insisted, pulling out his phone and quickly ordering a ride. "I want to make sure you get home safe."

Y/N watched him carefully, a little surprised by how naturally he took care of Hyejin, despite their obvious closeness. There was no awkwardness, only a gentle ease.

The door clicked softly behind Hyejin, and suddenly the apartment felt quiet. Y/N and Jungkook settled back onto the couch, the silence no longer charged but soft — an unspoken invitation to start mending the space between them.

Jungkook's voice broke the silence first, low and gentle. "What's wrong?"

Y/N blinked, startled by the question.

He leaned a little closer, eyes searching. "Are you... sad? Because we planned a movie night, but someone else ended up here."

"No," she said quickly, too quickly. "I'm not sad."

But Jungkook wasn't fooled.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair, voice softening. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to... You know, it's just—she's kind, and she's been such a big help. Hyejin's been with me through so much lately, helping with work, always pushing when I get stuck. I couldn't just tell her to go."

He reached out before she could respond, pulling her gently closer.

They settled side by side on the couch, his arm wrapping around her shoulders naturally, like it belonged there.

"What movie do you want to watch now?" he asked quietly, voice almost a whisper.

Y/N shrugged, leaning her head on his shoulder, the familiar comfort easing the tightness in her chest.

He smiled softly, his warmth seeping into her skin as he reached for the snacks they'd brought.

Together, they watched the screen, the world shrinking down to just this quiet room and the soft glow of the movie. Halfway through, Y/N's eyelids grew heavy. Without a word, Jungkook shifted, gently lifting her in his arms. He carried her to his bed, tucking the blanket around her with careful hands.

He stood beside the bed for a long time after tucking her in. The blanket was pulled gently over her shoulders, her hair fanned out on the pillow, face peaceful in sleep. But inside him, everything was the opposite of peaceful.

He rubbed the back of his neck, sighing through his nose.

Hyejin was a good girl.

Beautiful, bright. Sharp-minded and always composed.

And yeah... she was into him. She hadn't said it out loud, not yet—but it didn't need to be said. The way she lingered sometimes, the soft teasing in her voice, the way her gaze held his just a little longer than necessary. He wasn't blind.

And he hadn't invited her over tonight. That part mattered to him.

He'd planned tonight with Y/N.

He always did, without even realizing it sometimes. The moment the week wore him down, when he couldn't see past the blueprints and deadlines and exhaustion—somewhere in his head, he just wanted to hear her laugh, sit beside her, not talk at all if she didn't want to. But then the meeting had stretched. The project had hit a final snag. Hyejin needed his help with the last-minute presentation, and it had made sense to finish it together. By the time she was there, it had already started. He hadn't meant for it to overlap.

Still... he'd seen the look on Y/N's face when she walked in.

That flicker.

She didn't say anything, not really. She never did. But he could tell.

And now, watching her sleep, that ache only deepened.

Why did it hurt like this?

Girls had shown interest before. Pretty ones. Smart ones. Some had even been bold enough to ask him out directly. But he'd never felt like this—never this confusion, this fear, this pull he couldn't explain.

With Y/N... it was always different.

It wasn't about her being beautiful—though she was. Or talented—or that too.

And now... he was scared.

Scared that he'd crossed a line.

Scared that she'd felt it.

Scared that if he kept letting his feelings grow like this, he'd ruin everything.

He sat down on the edge of the bed, dropping his face into his hands.

"I have to do something," he muttered quietly to himself. "I can't let this—"

He exhaled. "I can't risk our friendship."

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

Days Later

Jungkook didn't expect to say yes.

When Hyejin asked if he'd like to grab dinner "just the two of us this time," he'd hesitated.

But then he just… agreed.

Maybe he had to move forward. Maybe whatever he felt for her was just one-sided comfort... maybe.

He told himself it was just attraction. Familiarity.

He told himself that he couldn't wait forever for someone who might not feel the same.

Hyejin was kind. Easy to talk to. Funny, too. And she didn't pretend not to care—she showed up with genuine interest in her eyes, and maybe that was what he needed. Something simpler. Something clear. And yet—every night after he came home, he found himself staring at his phone screen. Wondering if he should text her. Wondering if she was thinking about him too.

But he didn't.

He couldn't.

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

The engine stuttered—then gave out with a tired sigh.

Y/N sat there, hands still gripping the wheel, staring out at the quiet street. Dusk settled heavy around her, painting the sky in dull streaks of blue and grey. She tried the ignition again. Nothing. The silence in the car felt louder than ever. Her heart beat once. Hard.

She looked down at her phone.

No one else came to mind.

No Nari. No colleagues. No maybes.

Just one name pulsed in her thoughts.

Jungkook.

Because somehow, he was always the one who showed up.

She barely hesitated before tapping his name.

It rang twice.

"Hello?"

His voice. Familiar. Solid.

"Hey... it's me," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

A pause. Then gentler, "Y/N? What's wrong?"

"My car broke down. I'm stuck near that gas station on 9th... the one with the closed café."

"You okay?"

"I'm fine. Just... stuck." A nervous laugh escaped her lips. "Didn't know who else to call."

"You did the right thing."

She could already hear movement, the shuffle of keys. "I'm coming."

"Jungkook, you don't have to—"

"I want to."

His voice dropped. "Stay where you are."

The call ended, but something about his last words stayed wrapped around her chest.

Headlights swept across the pavement as the car slowed beside her. Y/N straightened from where she leaned against the hood of her stalled vehicle.

The door swung open.

Jeon Jungkook stepped out.

She blinked. Once. Twice.

He looked obscenely good.

Black slacks, button-up rolled at the sleeves, hair styled effortlessly. Clean, confident, composed. The kind of dressed-up that screamed intention.

She swallowed. "Wow. You look..."

"Don't worry about the car," he cut in gently, stepping close, eyes scanning hers. "I'll handle it. Just come with me."

"I—okay," she said, caught off guard. "Are you... going somewhere?"

He didn't answer right away, just gestured toward the passenger side. She got in.

When he slid in beside her, she asked softly, "Is someone waiting for you?"

His fingers tightened slightly on the steering wheel.

"She asked me to have dinner with her."

Y/N glanced at him. "Hyejin?"

He nodded, gaze on the road. "Yeah"

"Oh," she murmured.

A beat passed. The silence buzzed.

Then she asked, quieter still, "Is it a date?"

Jungkook exhaled. "Quite possibly."

She said nothing after that. Neither did he.

The silence felt heavier this time, stretched between them like something fragile. The city lights flickered past the windows, but all she could see was the way he'd dressed up for someone else.

When he pulled up to her building, she unbuckled her seatbelt slowly.

But she didn't get out. Not yet.

"Can I ask something?" she said, barely above a whisper.

He turned to her, patient. "Yeah?"

"She likes you," she said. It wasn't a question.

Jungkook chuckled under his breath. "Yeah. She kind of does."

"She asked you out," she repeated.

He looked at her then—really looked.

"She's a good girl," he said. "And I thought... why not? Maybe I should give it a try."

That hurt more than she expected.

But she only nodded, biting the inside of her cheek, masking the crack in her voice. "Right. Of course. That makes sense."

He didn't say anything.

She opened the door and stepped out, closing it gently behind her.

But his words echoed in her chest, long after he drove away.

"Maybe I should give it a try.

A Few Days Later

She didn't mean to notice it.

Didn't want to.

But she saw them—again.

Jungkook and Hyejin, walking out of the cafe near his office.

He held the door open for her. She laughed at something he said. His eyes softened in that way he never used casually.

Y/N turned away too fast. Her chest burned.

She didn't know what was happening with her.

Or maybe she did. And just didn't want to name it.

She'd seen Jungkook with girls before. Casual dates. Pretty faces, fleeting moments. He'd never made time for them. Never let anyone in.

But this felt... different.

He looked invested.

Not just polite. Not just amused. He looked like someone trying.

Like someone who had chosen to try.

It stung.

God, it stung.

She had no right to feel this way.

She was the one who insisted on labels. "Friends."

She was the one who drew the line after the kiss, who said, "Let's not mess this up."

She was the one who told herself: It's just companionship. No strings. No questions. No feelings.

So why did it feel like something was being ripped from her chest now?

Why did it hurt to see Hyejin lean a little too close?

To watch Jungkook let her?

She shut her eyes.

This wasn't fair.

She was supposed to be okay with this.

But she wasn't.

She hated it.

The quiet ache behind her ribs. The way her thoughts kept looping back. The way her heart clenched when she imagined him texting Hyejin goodnight.

It wasn't just jealousy.

It was loss.

And somewhere in that twisted ache, a cruel little voice whispered:

If you'd said something after the kiss...

If you hadn't been so scared...

Maybe he would've chosen you instead.

She didn't expect to feel it this deeply.

The ache, the sting — the unmistakable pinch in her chest when Nari mentioned that Jungkook wouldn't be coming to their Friday hangout.

"He said he has plans with Hyejin."

That one sentence buzzed inside her skull like a scream. Y/N didn't even realize how long she'd zoned out until her coffee went cold.

She didn't text him. Not for hours. Not that day. Not the next. She couldn't bring herself to look at her phone because every part of her heart felt betrayed by something she had no right to be hurt over.

They were just friends, right?

Right?

So why did it feel like her lungs were caving in?

She ignored his calls. Swiped away his messages. Didn't answer the door once when he knocked on a Saturday night.

She stepped out of her apartment after weeks, the sky was heavy with clouds, the kind of weather that made the air feel thick and quiet. She was headed out to grab some groceries, hoodie pulled tight against the cool breeze.

And then she saw him.

Leaning against his car.

Arms crossed. Eyes sharp. Jaw tight.

As soon as she noticed him, she turned on her heel.

"Don't walk away, Y/N."

His voice—deep and low—cut through the morning chill like a knife.

She froze. Not because he asked her to. But because if she turned around, she might break. And if she broke, she knew he'd see it all.

"What?" she muttered, back still turned. "What do you want?"

"Why have you been avoiding me?"

She scoffed, finally turning. Her eyes flashed with something between anger and heartbreak.

"I'm not avoiding you. I've just been busy."

"Bullshit," Jungkook snapped, stepping forward. "You haven't spoken to me in weeks. What the hell is going on, Y/N?"

She swallowed, crossing her arms — a weak shield against everything she was feeling.

"Nothing's going on. You're the one who's suddenly too busy playing boyfriend."

That hit. He blinked.

"Are you talking about Hyejin?"

"No," she laughed bitterly. "I'm talking about your new ritual of ditching your best friend to take her out."

Jungkook's brows furrowed, tension tightening his shoulders.

"I told you it was a date. I didn't lie."

"And you didn't need to," she snapped. "You don't owe me an explanation."

"Then why are you so damn upset?"

Silence.

He stepped closer, voice quiet now — rough around the edges.

"Y/N... I need to know. Why are you acting like this?"

"I'm not acting like anything."

"Like hell you aren't!" His voice cracked — not in volume, but in emotion. He was trying so hard to stay calm, but the heat beneath his skin was rising. "You ignore me, then throw shade about Hyejin. And you still want to pretend like everything between us meant nothing?"

She opened her mouth. Closed it again.

He didn't wait.

"What do you want me to do, huh?" he asked, stepping closer. His eyes searched hers like he was begging for an answer she couldn't give.

"Should I just stop seeing her? Stop living my life? Because we kissed and then you told me we were just friends?!"

Her breath hitched.

"You said it didn't mean anything."

"I lied"

[prlssprfctn]

Ever think about how niche and rich Gotham culture must be? (aka i've been going over this whilst writing and needed to share)

Like-

Would gas masks become fashionable?

Would there be even stricter laws about importing certian goods into Gotham or even tracking places that sell them?? (ex Nitrous Oxide, balloons, birds, etc)

Do people rep different Bat merch like a local sports team?

Would people treat the Bats (or other guest vigilantes) like bird watching? (*cough tim cough*)

Is there a weapon/gear drop off service??

Or do people collect that shit

Would there be antidote administration lessons alongside epi pen first aid in schools?

Please id love to hear your thoughts/interpretations because I swear theres so much- (Sincerely, @batfambrainrotbeloved)

this is one of the best asks i had received here. single-handedly. here is what i think:

gas masks are DEFINITELY a part of the local fashion. they have vigilante and rogue themed once also! do you want Batman-themed gas mask? here you go. or Red Robin one? oh, what is it? you want THE special edition gas mask? the Scarecrow THEMED one? don't worry. we have you covered.

i just know that customs house workers are NOT getting paid enough for this shit. they have, like, ridiculous amount of directive about the simplest items, and that's why tourists are skipping this fucking town. i also pretty much need the game in Papers, Please style with customs house in Gotham, lmao—

my personal canon? every vigilante and some of rogues have merch selling in the town; some more popular than others. my personal canon x2? the Crime Alley started to rep their own Red Hood merch, and Jason was flabbergasted. he then visited the owners of the merch, encouraging them to donate this ridiculous amount of money they get for the rest of Crime Alley citizens. once people found out about this? they went even more insane. the selling of Red Hood merch is just OVER the top. (bonus headcanon: sometimes, there is a ship merch, too. like SuperBat stuff. or BatCat. Dick accidentally stumbles on BatJokes when he hunts for SuperBats key chains and calls Jason to ask him to burn this place down.)

Tim was the OG birdwatcher, trust. but also, YEAH. i am pretty sure some people prepare themselves for the night by grabbing binoculars and super-puper rich cams to examine Bats in their natural habitat. Bats know about the existence of these people, but they can't really do anything about it. Tim has a secret Reddit account that is a local expert in their Gotham Birdwatching community, where he is giving advice or just being a condescending asshole to people. Barbara sometimes chimes in this subreddit to add her own thoughts.

Bats suck at keeping their gadgets or broken pieces of inventory, trust. and people...? oh, people collect this shit. it is either freaks, who have their own personal museums for this, or, like, people who sell what they find on Amazon. everyone wants a piece of that to themselves. (bonus headcanon: Crime Alley people keep bringing Red Hood's dropped weapons and gears back, under Jason's door, even though Jason *insists* that he has no connection to Red Hood. uh-uh.)

i always thought police stations, schools, hospitals, and similar public spaces have different antidotes stocked in any case — Bruce Wayne makes sure it does. and yes, i think they have special lessons for different, specific scenarios: what to do once faced with toxins or pollens, how to apply medicine, or what to do if there is none of it. how to act if there are Poison Ivy's plants surrounding you, etc, etc. police officers definitely carry a few antidotes on themselves, just in case people will need it. and, obviously, the same goes for Bats.

[shradsmanifestt]

Don't let this stop you from getting your manifestation

Feelings of guilt, feelings of will this ever happen? is it even possible? Can I really change the past and make him come back or How can I possibly change my body without doing anything? or How can I manifest money without hardwork? Why will he ever like me? How can I ever be popular? My skin is too dark, My thighs are too fat , My nose is too big, I can barely get my parents to agree to this how can I ever change them completely?

I get it. I really do. Manifestation is easy. But changing these thoughts aren't right? Well that's your assumption isn't it. Why do you think you're still living and breathing in that old reality? The only reason why it exists is because you pay attention to it. It is because you give life to it. Do you really think that your so called affirmations are your only thoughts. All these feelings that I mentioned in the above paragraph are your thoughts. Every question or doubt that arises in your mind when you think about your manifestation is a thought. Now I'm not telling you that you have to get rid of all negative thoughts or monitor your thoughts 24/7. But knowing that you already have it, why doubt? Why second guess? When you order something on Amazon do you second guess whether you have it or not? Or do u just know that it is coming to you.

Treat your manifestations as facts of your life. Stop feeling guilty, stop feeling like you don't deserve it, Stop making it impossible for you? You're the only one in your life that can make your life miserable or the best. You decide. You decide everything. I swear. I swear that it's already here, even if you can't see it or hear or even feel it. You don't need outside validation to know its yours. Trust me on this please. If you can imagine it you can have it. If you couldn't then it probably wouldn't even occur to you. That's all the proof you need. That's the only proof you need to know that it is yours.

YOU DECIDE.

[fight-for-what-you-love]

♪ Worldwide - Big Time Rush

I'm gonna be honest- these episodes kind of fell apart while I was making this. The more I re-wrote the story for it's second draft the less this version made sense and the less interested I was to work on it. I have not much else to say except sorry this part is kinda iffy and sorry it took so long. I promise you I'll make up for this in the next episode I PROMISE

Notes on both episodes under the cut!

Sweden Sour

* (I think it’d be really funny if Cody just doesn’t talk at all this episode. Not a word. Just nods and head shakes and depressed faces.)

* Cody’s incredibly depressed after Noah’s elimination. Sierra’s over the moon, though. She sees Cody depressed and gives him a tight side hug, petting his head. She tries consoling him with “I know you’re sad, but it’s ok! At least I’m still here~.” Cody starts sobbing, head in hands. Heather is sick of this already.

* The teams get their “ibuilda” pieces and the Amazons argue on what it’s supposed to be. Cody stares at the pieces for a few seconds before the light briefly re enters his eyes. He starts building. Courtney tells him to stop but Heather tells her he’s obviously got it, so let him work. They start helping him build… something.

* Once the Amazons are done, Heather, Sierra and Courtney take a step back to see what they’ve built. It’s a giant wooden Noah head. Their faces drop. Heather is filled with murderous rage.

* We built Noah’s face (We’re gonna take first place) Cause we built Noah’s faaaace

* Tyler’s jumper would be white.

* Cody doesn’t sing in this number. Chris notices and stares at him threateningly. He reluctantly hums the chorus and Chris takes what he can get.

* (Alejandro takes off his shirt to pull the boat like a freak. Duncan is unfazed and Tyler will deny it if you ask him if he blushed.)

* Sierra hits Noah’s Head hard enough it falls over on its side and suggests sawing off the side to ride in him like a boat. Heather and Courtney agree to this. Cody has no comment.

* Duncan and Alejandro don't bother bending over backwards to please Tyler. Duncan makes himself captain and no one argues.

* When the Amazons go to pick a captain, Courtney grabs the hat and declares herself captain without input. Heather tries to argue but Courtney argues back- Cody is in no condition, no one trusts Sierra and Heather took control the last challenge so this time she’s in charge. Heather reluctantly backs down.

* Amazons catch up to team Chris in the water. Alejandro sees them approach and makes note of Cody’s face, making fun of him for being so upset about “the Noah thing”. Cody furrows his eyebrows and points furiously at Chris’s boat. Courtney agrees that yes, they should shoot their boat.

* It doesn’t matter who wins the challenge since it’s a non elimination round, but I want to say the Amazons persevere. The massage helps Cody enough that he’s not stone faced next episode at least.

Aftermath III (Aftermath Aftermayhem)

* Gwen, Owen and Noah are introduced together. Gwen walks out first and Owen, hugging Noah to the point of lifting him off the ground, walks behind her.

* Geoff asks what all that’s about and Gwen responds that Owen refused to let him go until Noah “understood just how sorry he was”. Noah insists he forgives him, but Owen still won’t let him go.

* The Owen square is replaced by the Tyler square. The prompt is survive. (The hosts throw a bunch of debris at the contestant for thirty seconds and if they dodge everything they move on.)

* (For brevity’s sake, assume all of the contestants that participated in the board game in the original episode participated here [with the exception of Tyler, who is replaced with Owen]. They all get eliminated the same way as well, Noah getting got by aliens, Owen falling down the booby trap square and Beth making it to the final question.)

* When Beth gets stumped on the last question (What was Duncan's band called) Noah yells at her, frustrated: “Oh my- It’s Der Schnitzel Kickers, Beth!!” Confetti and balloons fall from the ceiling.

* (He knows this because Cody had mentioned it in a conversation after the London challenge.)

* Noah initially complains about winning the game, but Owen reminds him that he gets to see Cody again and he shuts up immediately.

* “Noah wins!” “Wasn’t he disquali-” “NOAH WINS!! Let’s wrap it up. We’re done here.”

[percabethsong]

I just read your warrior Penelope au post and I love how you explained why Penelope would go in his place because Odysseus is missing his leg, genius

Does it still take Penelope ten years to get back home after the Trojan war or is the timeframe shorter/longer? Is her journey back home similar to what happened in the Odyssey? And if so, does Odysseus get suitors at his door wanting his hand in marriage? How would he hold them off while he waits for his wife to get back home?

Sorry for the questions, late night thoughts go brrrrr

Unfortunately, the ten years journey home still happened, although some changes would be made. I think Circe's would be far more trusting of Penelope since she's a woman, although she would still have turned Penelope's crew into pigs, once Circe saw their captain was a woman and they respected her, she let them go easier and doesn't try to seduce her.

Calypso stays pretty much the same, though, it's Greek Mythology, pretty common to feel attraction to more than one gender.

I imagine Penelope, being Ares champion in this AU, may face things a little more upfront than Odysseus would, even though she's also smart and uses cunning sometimes.

The suitors is an interesting questions! I actually thought about this a lot. It depends how accurate things are with Greek Mythology/history. I often see in this AU Odysseus having suitors, which is a fun concept, but since I'm trying to make a version of this AU that would be more possible in universe (hence Penelope having to use her status as an Amazon to convince people she can fight as a woman, since they were some fem warriors in greek myths or general history, but it was difficult for them to gain people's respect), I would say not exactly. Odysseus already has a heir, and Greek Kings can rule without Queens. However, Odysseus is disabled in this concept, and Ancient Greece was a very ableist society. The exception often made were for war wounds, which Odysseus's wouldn't be considered. Odysseus is still very much capable to rule even if he can't fight, he has a sharp mind and Athena stays by his side helping him, which makes Odysseus a great king. However, it's a very hard thing to be respected as a disabled person in this time, even if it was a bit easier if you were nobility. Because he was the king and had a Amazon ruling by his side, people how doubted him kept their complaints to themselves in the beginning. But without Penelope people starting to question him more, especially after she doesn't return with the crew that left for war, making people more relentless. Then a group of men started to appear at the palaces, demanding Odysseus to choose one of them as an advisor and protector, since the queen had not return to fullfil this role. Odysseus not only very much does not need an advisor and protector, but is also aware of the men true intentions: once he chooses one, he'll be killed in a way that looks like an accident and the man he chose will claim the throne, since Telemachus is still too young to be king.

Regarding how Odysseus would hold them off... Hum, that's a interesting questions. I like to imagine he would invent a lot of little challenges for them, claiming he needs to test the skills of his future advisor, both physical and mental. He would come with a new game ever month. I can also picture him saying he would choose a advisor as soon as he finishes an marble sculpture of Penelope himself, without any help to honour his wife. Every night, though, he breaks a little peace of the stone, having to fix it and buying Penelope time. Or at least hold them down enough until Telemachus is ready to be king.

Don't apologise! I've actually never received these kind questions about a post and it made me really happy!

[zooophagous]

PLEASE say more about your cultural understanding of tattoos if/when you feel up to it; your perspective on it is really interesting!

I can only really speak from my own perspective on it as a fairly recent initiate into tattooing, but the way tattoos have been viewed in the past (even the very recent past) had changed very quickly with new technology.

Finer lines become possible, and greater variety of colors, so the necessity of sticking to thick lines and heavy black with few color options is no longer the case. Improved technology means more styles become possible to tattoo in, and as such instead of the restrictions of the media informing the tattoo, tattoos are now available in a wide variety of art styles and the art world and overall cultural zeitgeist now heavily influence tattoos instead of tattoos by necessity having their own set style guides and language.

This means more mass appeal, you can do almost whatever you want art wise now and many tattooers are fine artists in their own right. So now we have more and more women and young professionals into it and not just bikers, gang members or sailors as the stereotypes used to hold.

So now tattoos are trendy for everyone, as the nation slowly but surely sheds its puritanical leanings. But now that tattooing is no longer an underground art form and is largely regulated and legalized, a new underground form of it lives on.

Thanks to online buy-anything sorts of sites like Amazon, Temu and Wish, it's easier than ever for the garage, apartment or party to host impromptu tattoos. And because it is often very difficult to get someone to agree to teach you how to tattoo, almost all of these people are self taught and receive instructions via youtube.

So why then, if you can get anything you want as a tattoo, would people still go for these dubiously sanitary pieces by untrained artists?

Part of it is related to why tattoos may have existed in the first place- they denote your culture, your people, who you belong to. For a lot of the apartment tattoo getters, they're allowing their friends or family members to practice on them as a sign of love and trust.

Part of it is cost. Cheap things always have a market, even if they're not good.

But part of it I think is nihilism. That is, a sense that you have no future, nothing to live for and therefore nothing to lose. Many young people cannot envision themselves in old age and many of them tell you they'll likely die young. So why not, then, get the bad tattoo? The tattoo is temporary because life is temporary. We lead such short desperate lives that refusing a tattoo because of some imagined professional setting you might be in seems as asinine as thinking one day you might be a billionaire. It's just as unattainable.

Throw in a little postmodernism, a little dadaism and you have the perfect storm for the rise of ignorant style tattoos. They're not good, but that's largely the point. They don't have to be. In fact the ugliness is largely the point of this art form. Much like how Duchamp's Fountain was never meant to be a beautiful piece of sculpture but rather a biting satire, ignorant style tattoos become the response to the former underground artform of tattooing going mainstream and suddenly costing thousands and thousands of dollars, and people showing off wealth with perfectly technically done sleeves.

It's for obvious reasons a very divisive style of tattooing, and now even legitimate shops are turning out things that look "bad on purpose" but are technically well applied when examined closely. Personally I think most of them are ugly as shit but what the Hell do I know I'm just some bitch.

[lunememes]

🌙 * ― 𝐅𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐔𝐓 ( a collection of sentence starters from season one of amazon's fallout show. feel free to adjust the wording and pronouns as needed! do not add to the list. )

❛  and in that respect, he could be a cannibal or just like, crammed full of tumours. ❜ ❛  flesh is weak but steel endures. ❜ ❛  unless you know what to find and preserve, you're more useful as a corpse. ❜ ❛  how do we know they're not feral? ❜ ❛  well what makes you think i give a good goddamn about that? ❜ ❛  well what the fuck would you know 'bout where i'm from? ❜ ❛  but for me, well, i do this shit for the love of the game. ❜ ❛  you come from a place of rules, of laws. this place is indifferent to all of that. ❜ ❛  question is, will you still want the same things when you have become a different animal altogether? ❜ ❛  you earn the suit through acts of bravery. this is an act of bravery. ❜ ❛  and i'm telling you you're gonna go through a whole lot worse if you stay 'round here. trust me. ❜ ❛  clean hair. nice teeth. and all ten fingers. must be nice. ❜ ❛  the vaults were nothing more than a hole in the ground for rich folks to hide in while the rest of the world burned. ❜ ❛  you know your kind ain't welcome here. ❜ ❛  you gotta be fucking kidding me. ❜ ❛  you'll be lucky if you can make it to fucking breakfast. ❜ ❛  i'm sorry for yellin', been shot in the leg. ❜ ❛  do you have anyone else you can trust in this town? ❜ ❛  do i really have to kill him? ❜ ❛  well, if you like the taste of lavender, why not just drink a bottle of perfume? ❜ ❛  that's the worst thing i've ever put in my mouth. that's horrible. ❜ ❛  do unto others as you would have done unto you. ❜ ❛  thou shalt get sidetracked by bullshit every goddamn time. ❜ ❛  water water everywhere, and not a drop to drink. ❜ ❛  where do you think you're going? you ain't going nowhere. ❜ ❛  there you are, you little killer. ❜ ❛  no! what a disgusting idea. i'm simply going to harvest your organs. ❜ ❛  i may end up looking like you, but i'll never be like you. ❜ ❛  i really wanna believe you but practically every person i've met up here has tried to kill me. ❜ ❛  listen, hey. you don't get this medicine, you're gonna pass out, okay? and if you lose consciousness, we're both gonna die. ❜ ❛  i've seen these in old engineering manuals but never in real life. ❜ ❛  now, seeing as everyone on earth seems to be after that thing, i'm guessing that's what you're looking for too? ❜ ❛  and you could've killed me when i collapsed back there and you didn't. ❜ ❛  i get that trust doesn't come easily up here. but you can trust me. ❜ ❛  i hate it up here. ❜ ❛  the things i'm willing to do for you never cease to amaze me. ❜ ❛  hey, hey, hey. come here. i'm sorry. i know you always try to do the right thing. that's what i love about you. ❜ ❛  trust doesn't come easily to those of us with a guilty conscience. ❜ ❛  in my experience, the apple tends not to fall too far from the tree. is that true in your case? ❜ ❛  these people are hiding something from us, and i'm gonna prove it to you, okay? ❜ ❛  there's always some new little faction, ain't there? brand new team of believers with their own dumbass ideas about how they gonna save the world. ❜ ❛  so what d'you think [name]? am i really walking out of here today, or are you gonna try and draw on me for what i did? ❜ ❛  a good bad guy doesn't see themselves as the bad guy. ❜ ❛  and yet power is taken, not given. a lesson you seem to have learned. ❜ ❛  war never changes. ❜ ❛  you look out at this wasteland, looks like chaos. but there's always somebody behind the wheel. and that's who i wanna talk to. ❜ ❛  maybe you can stop them. maybe you can't. maybe all you can do is try. ❜

[dchuntress]

i have such mixed feelings about lizzie/trinity. i hate tom king and everything he stands for and i do not trust him with writing a single woman ever, especially wonder woman. i am not a big fan of diana x steve anyway. i do think bringing back lyta hall would've been so much better. i hate that her name's trinity, that her characterisation revolves around robin and batman and damian and superman and jon and steve mostly, i find it unfair that she already has an ongoing while longterm characters collect dust, i hate how badly she fails the bechdel test, even though it shouldn't be difficult considering the amazons are an all-women warrior race.

that being sad, lizzie is a really adorable kid and her basic concept is pretty interesting. i can't really be mad at a kid, especially considering that characters do not have agency especially when their writer is as biased and fucked up as tom king. i think the best thing they can do with her is basically just retcon everything with her and hand her over to a different writer cause i genuinely don't know how to salvage the actual storywriting with her so far 😭😭 i don't hate her really

[tiajk]

Amazon strawhat reader part 2

Warnings; fluff again, slight hints of zosan, the strawhats having a crush on amazon reader again,

A/n; I did a part two because of how much love the fist one got lol

Part 1 Masterlist

— your lasso of truth makes anyone want to run away from you

— you don't really have to use it on the the crew because you're all honest and truthful with each other

— After the time-skip and they all see how much more you grew stronger they admire you just a little bit more than usual

— Ussop almost cried when you gave him a very rare plant from your home and you trusted him to take care of it

— When Jimbei first joined the crew he warmed up to you the most first

— Robin finds comfort with you because whens she not strong enough your strong enough for her

—If you ever get seriously injured there worried and they won't sleep until they know that your better

— (the person that injured you is dead)

— When you guys get your bounties they always wanna see yours first all having mixed reactions

— Most of the time zoro and you train together (he loves those moments they mean more than anything else in the world)

— Luffy tells ace and sabo about you all the time they love you as much as luffy does and thank you for taking care of him

— Back to the lasso of truth

— Zoro and sanji argue a lot right so you use it on them to so they can actually tell each other how they feel

— Nami has tried to use your lasso a few times on luffy to tie him down but it didn't end well for anyone

— I repeat and I REPEAT don't let luffy tell kid about you kid will kidnap you and take you away from the strawhats

— When its beach day and they see you in a swim suit most (all) of the strawhats faint

— Seeing your muscles flex with out you even trying makes all of the oggle at you without even knowing

— If they ever see you with your crown on they know that your homesick and they try their best to make you feel right at home with your other family them

[ittybittyfanblog]

Probably a dumb question but if reader was reading/watching something on her phone that was scaring/making her cry (through sadness or anger), what would Sylus's reaction be?

You think he'd make that app she was using crash like "NOPE, you're done with that. No more of that.", would he comfort her saying that shit wouldn't happen/he wouldn't let it happen to her, or would he question why the fuck she was entertaining it if she was finding she is hating it? Would it be a combo or something else?

You don't have to answer, I've just been wondering this for awhile.

oh hey hi! tbh, i never really thought about that specific scenario, but i did headcanon that at some point in the relationship, sylus went absolutely ham overriding reader's phone 😂

it's not even "hey siri" anymore—it's "hey, sy-sy" 🥹 except sy-sy's waaaaay more efficient (if not a little too eager), so it's great!

calendar reminders? set. finances tracked in a colour-coded google sheet, complete with a weekly budget breakdown? already on her bookmarks. grocery lists with an annoying veto feature that controls her junk intake? yeah, they're already on her notes app.... whether she likes it or not.

reader so much as thinks about something—boom, it's already handled.

it’s convenient. reeeeallyyyy convenient. until she tries to order something from idk, amazon?? and sylus just straight-up cancels it because "the price-to-quality ratio is ludicrous, kitten," and "i found a better alternative; it's arriving in 24 hours."

or the time she ✨~jokingly~✨ complained about how work was killing her and that "she won't live past forty at this rate" once—once—in passing and almost had to do damage control when she caught him about to send a strongly worded email calling her supervisor a no-good son of a whore whilst demanding a 50% salary increase plus retro pay.

at that point, she figured that this very advanced form of benevolent tyranny needed to be dialed down. (sy-sy, of course, vehemently disagreed.)

sorry, i don't think this answer matches the emotional effect you were asking/going for!! but trust that sylus always made sure to make himself present whenever reader needed him—maybe less on the "censorship" but more on the "let's divert her attention to other matters, perhaps" route 🫶🏼

[angeliquexoxo]

"What are they like?" - General Resident Headcanons

PART 2

More hcs of how the residents would act around the mansion!💕

All characters are written according to my au, I don't own any of the characters written here and they all belong to their rightful owners (⁠＾⁠∇⁠＾⁠)⁠ﾉ⁠♪

This post may contain mature content such as swearing, talks about trauma, and other stuff you may not too read!

BEN_Drowned

I imagine him having the body of a 15 year old, and the mind of a 21 college drop out who's actually really good in technology and social media. Basically someone who's a genius but decided to drop out because it's just not working out for him.

BEN is really annoying to deal with in the mansion. Not because of his ability to manipulate technology (can manifest in tvs and such), but him as a being. Like you would see on the internet, the boy is a troll. He enjoys witnessing the angry reactions he would get from others- which is why he likes to use Jeff as his go to target.

Since he's a spirit, he could phase through walls and such but since he's a techno-poltergeist, he prefers using electronics and gadgets.

BEN would spend his free time in his room or at the recreation room, either playing video games or watching some kind of anime. But if he's working, he would be stationed at the security office- BEN is the only one in the mansion who can keep track of what's happening in most of the cameras placed all around the mansion.

One of the messiest residents in the mansion. The security office is filled with tangled wires and a bunch of junk food wrappers (chips, sodas, candy, etc) His room is also very unkept. For some reason, he has a bunch of used tissues all along his desk which I won't be elaborating any further.

BEN is really easy-going, really playful too- but again, he's a smart spirit. He doesn't trust too many people in the mansion except for jeff because he knows what kind of fucked up shit they all did. He likes to perceive himself as a friendly guy but also shows to others that you shouldn't fuck with him.

Since he's at cyber security, a lot of people look at him when they need something ordered off online (whether it's on Amazon or on the Dark web) of course he'll do it, but in return you'll have to do something for him in return. It can be as harmless as pulling pranks but sometimes his favors are fucked up like killing of a victim he trolled because he told them to pull up to an address he gave them.

BEN is quite expressive, he's the one who reacts to things the most besides Nina I envision him to show off lot of emotions too. He doesn't know how to hide them well, you can easily tell just by looking at him (I think it's also because BEN is always seen so carefree and positive so it's a no brainer if you notice the shift in his emotions easily)

He acts like a moody teenager. Like I said, BEN is pretty laid back, uses vulgar and extensive vocabulary (would use slang words the most) when something upsets him, he will make it known. Honestly, he'll start to act like a petty and salty bitch when there's a minor inconvenience.

Eyeless Jack

Ej is the mansion's official doctor. He got the position and the proper title after the number of times he would give his housemates medical help after or even between missions. He's also the one apart of cleaning up after fights between residents.

He's knowledgeable to almost all things about medicine, especially info on anatomy and things relating to surgery. I could say he's one of the smarter residents when it comes to academics (he liked science, particularly the biology)

He keeps mostly to himself. He doesn't involve himself in any drama happening in the mansion, not because he's not into socializing with the other members of the mansion but rather because he's worried about harming those around him. Because Ej is a half-demon from a failed cult sacrifice, he now has to live with his craving of human organs and it's said for him to deal with because all he wanted to do is help those in need.

With his cannibalistic tendencies, he prefers having meal time ny himself. The only time he'll eat is when he's out hunting or alone and somewhere private in the mansion- like his room or a closed area in the infirmary.

He doesn't get stressed easily. He knows how to act when there's a crisis. He's used to working under pressure, with him being the most medical knowledge in the mansion and stuff. The only time he'll start acting out is when he's hungry. He can control his anger well when things start to piss him off, but if he's starving- that's a whole 'nother level of danger.

Ej likes to be clean and tidy. The practice of keeping things sterile grew on him and because of that he prefers keeping things neat and organised. However, with him needing to consume human insides- it's difficult for him to keep his stuff clean. You'll need to find a victim, get the good stuff, dispose of the body, etc. yeah it's not a fun process for him.

A really respectful resident. He doesn't use vulgar language except the occasional swear words he thinks there's no need to swear so there's that He gives respect to anyone as long as they're respectful to him in return.

Ej is on good terms with residents in the mansion, not because he's the one healing but because he's not as fucked as they are. Has good bonds with Jane and Hoodie, thinks Nina is a sweet for helping him out in the infirmary while the other residents are just okay for him.

Would spend his free time reading books don't ask me how it just fits him if not then he'll organize the infirmary.

Jeff the Killer

Surprising enough, not as foul mouth as you think he'd be Clockwork took number 1 Jeff still swears and such, but he's not bold enough to say what's on his mind- it really depends if he drank enough beer or not.

Also really gross, his room reeks of alcohol and rot. He has a bunch of dirty laundry and empty beer cans that he has yet to throw away. Jeff doesn't have the best hygiene either. He has a hard time brushing his teeth due to the cut on his cheeks. He would also wear the same white hoodie- never washes it unless he feels like a decent human being and decided to do his laundry.

Honestly, he's a bit of a pussy. It really depends on who he's dealing with. If he's with Cody or some resident who is really introverted, then he'll start acting like he's a tough guy a bully basically. But if Jeff is with people like Jane or even with Liu- he'll start shutting his mouth more. Though that doesn't mean he'll start throw some nasty comment at them.

He's pretty awkward around certain residents cough cough Nina cough cough only because he's not good in emotions, especially if it's something really touchy. He hates the proxies, mainly because he doesn't like being bossed around still follows their orders though. He's on good terms with BEN- sure you'll hear Jeff cursing BEN off but rest assured, all of them are said with love. Thinks Jane and Clockwork are bitches, but really Jeff is just a pussy when they're near him.

His relationship with Liu is interesting. They weren't really close when they were kids- Liu was more favored by their parents while Jeff was the problem child growing up. When they reunited, Jeff avoided Liu a lot, him seeing the stitches he had on his face struck a chord on his heart. He almost felt sorry for him that his until he cut his smile up again.

You might think he's an idiot, I mean, he is, but he has a brain, and he uses it for the most part. Since he's a senior resident, he knows the ropes of going on missions and the kind of stuff happening in the mansion. He may not be the smartest, but he's a pretty good fighter. Has an okay amount of strength and can fun pretty fast. He's trying to learn how to use firearms, a shotgun preferably, so there's that.

Has the strongest gut out of all of the residents. He can watch the most vile thing to ever exist and still have his lunch in his stomach. Jeff also doesn't hold a lot of sympathy, just because he's running this killer game since he was 13. He's often stationed for torturing victims when they need info because of this.

X-virus

He is also an intelligent resident. Very gifted to all things related to science, specially biochemistry and microbiology- since he's centered around diseases and different types of viruses. Cody has some good knowledge in medicine too. Because of this, he's known to be the 2nd unofficial doctor of the mansion.

Unfortunately, Cody gets very distracted easily. Has a hard time staying still, which is why he often fidgets with his goggles. Would end up getting carried away with whatever he's talking about, especially when it's about things he's really interested in.

A lot of people in the mansion found him annoying. Many residents see Cody as a very clumsy kid who's constantly trapped in his own little world.

Cody is in fact the newest resident in the mansion. He came in after Nina after about 5 years? Some members of the mansion still see him as fresh meat though.

Could be one of the most sadistic residents in the mansion. He's known to use whatever deadly sickness he made on his victims. He enjoys seeing how his test subjects victims react to his viruses. Sometimes, he will even snap photos of said victims and name the photo after the virus he used on them. Has at least 1 binder container said photos.

He doesn't have the best living(?) schedule. The boy just wakes up from his desk, conduct experiments on his viruses, studies the results and passes out. He would often forget to eat too, because of this he has a skinny build.

He gets really excited when he's involved in certain missions especially the ones where they go in groups mainly because he wants to show off his creations.

He's only close with members like Toby and Nina, the only reason why is because they are the only ones who can tolerate him and his interest in viruses. Jane, Helen, and Liu have neutral feelings towards him while Clockwork, Jeff, and Ben simply find him irritating.

Kagekao

Kage is an asshole. Because he's the only supernatural being who's not a big wuss, he simply thinks he's better than everyone. He likes to make the other residents stupid a lot. He doesn't think he's better than everyone though, he's very much aware of the flaws he has but in certain if not most situations- Kage has the upper hand.

Knows some secrets about the other residents. He's a very sneaky demon- he knows how to hide himself very well. Because of this, there are times where he would come across residents doing something they shouldn't or overheard private conversations.

Surprisingly a very easy guy to talk too. He doesn't go against most of the rules in the mansion and listens to the proxies. However, every time someone asks him to do something- whether it's a small favor or not, he wants something in return.

Very chill but because of his attitude a lot of people don't like hanging out with him. If you do hang out with him though, most of the time you guys are just gonna end up drunk.

Not a light weight, he's able to consume a lot of red wine in one sitting. He doesn't enjoy other drinks, wine is the only drink he'll only enjoy. If there's no wine then he'll simply leave.

He likes hanging out with Sully a lot. For him, Sully can match his energy very well. Kage enjoys hanging with Liu too. He doesn't interact with his other housemates but he enjoys making Jeff feel like an idiot.

He has the ability to shape shift and climb on walls and ceilings. He enjoys staying in high places like roof tops or beams of high ceilings. He doesn't shape shift too much mainly because he hates the feelings of turning himself into something that's not his usual body.

He prefers killing his victims off quickly than taking his time. He will slow his pace when his victim is attractive. Many times he would hold conversations with many women, sometimes having wine with them before offing them.

I'd think Kage would have good charisma levels. He knows how to make women blush and stutter which is why he chooses them as his go to victims. Despite making girls fall into their knees with simple words, he doesn't have the interest in dating anyone and no there hasn't been a time where he hooked up with any of the girls he had killed

Took some time to finish this post. Many things are happening in school, I have exams next week and we also have a school event where we need to make a costume for our representative :'>>>

But we'll have an academic break after this week so I'll probs post more?

Thank you all for the hearts and reposts on my last post 😭 hopefully y'all enjoyed this one too! 💕😘✨